JP5364823B1 - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

A gaming machine capable of handling illegal time reading is provided.
Time (h) information is read from an RTC time storage area, then minute (m) information is read, then second (s) information is read, and each is set as a temporary time of the current frame. (Step S2321, Step S2322). If the provisional time of the current frame is the same as the time of the previous frame or is not in the range of +1 second, the time of the previous frame is set as the time of the current frame (step S2344). As a result, even when noise or the like is generated during reading of the RTC time information and the incorrect time information is read, it can be corrected by the time of the previous frame, and the reading of the incorrect time can be handled.
[Selection] Figure 21

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine that uses time information.

  In a conventional gaming machine, a game ball is fired on a game board by a player's operation, and when a game ball enters a winning opening provided on the game board, a predetermined prize ball is paid out. Note that a gaming member such as a nail, a windmill, a winning opening, and an opening / closing device provided in the winning opening are provided on the gaming board of the gaming machine. In addition, when a game ball enters a start opening provided on the game board, the gaming machine performs a lottery to determine whether or not to shift to a special game state (a big hit game) in which a large amount of prize balls can be easily obtained.

  Further, the conventional gaming machine is configured so that when a game ball enters the start opening, the effect display symbol is variably displayed by the symbol display device, and then the lottery result is notified by a combination of the effect symbols that are stopped and displayed. Yes.

Further, in the conventional gaming machine, various effects such as animation display by characters are performed in addition to the effect display by effect symbols.
For example, as such a gaming machine, there is one that causes an effect to be executed based on time or date.

  Such a conventional gaming machine includes an image display unit for displaying symbols and effects, an effect button for receiving operations from the player, a real-time clock (hereinafter referred to as RTC) for measuring the current time, and a plurality of effect patterns. And a CPU for selecting an effect pattern from the above and executing the effect.

  Then, the CPU of the gaming machine executes a predetermined customer waiting effect associated with the current time when waiting for the customer, based on the current time counted by the RTC. As a result, variations in the customer waiting effect are increased, improving the preference of the gaming machine, attracting the player's interest, and improving the operating rate of the gaming machine (see Patent Document 1).

JP 2010-057706 A

  However, when the RTC time information is read from the gaming machine, there is a possibility that the wrong time information may be read due to the influence of noise or the like. .

For example, the main CPU of an amusement machine uses an 8-bit microprocessor, and has only the ability to process a maximum of 8-bit data in a single process. On the other hand, each item of the storage area (register) in which the RTC time information is stored is 8 bits. For example, each of a time (HOUR) area, a minute (MIN) area, and a second (SEC) area is 8 bits.
For this reason, the gaming machine cannot read all items of RTC time information in one access. For example, in order to read hours, minutes, and seconds, at least three times of reading must be performed. In addition, there is a problem that the probability of an error occurring when reading time information increases.

  The present invention has been made to solve such a conventional problem, and an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can cope with reading of an illegal time during reading of time information.

In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the present invention counts time information (RTC 180) for measuring time and storing time information of the measured time in a time measurement storage unit, and time information stored in the time measurement storage unit. Time reading means (image control board 150) to read, time comparison means for comparing the current time information read by the time reading means and the previous time information adopted as current time information before a predetermined time. (Image control board 150), time determination means (image control board 150) for determining time information adopted as current time information based on the comparison result by the time comparison means, and time determined by the time determination means Time storage means (image control board 150) for storing information, and effect execution means (image control board 150) for producing effects based on the determined time information; Equipped with a,
The time comparison unit compares the current time information read out by the time reading unit in the current reading and the previous time information adopted before a predetermined time stored in the time storage unit, The time determination means, when the time comparison means determines that the current time according to the current time information is a time within a predetermined time range as compared with the previous time according to the previous time information. Adopts the current time information as the current time information, and if it is determined that the time is out of the predetermined time range, the previous time information stored in the time storage means is used as the current time information. It is characterized by adopting.

  In the present invention, it is preferable that the time determination unit determines that the time comparison unit determines that the current time is not the same as the previous time, or a time other than a time after a predetermined unit update time. The previous time information stored in the time storage means is employed as current time information.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a gaming machine capable of coping with reading illegal time information.

It is a front view of a gaming machine. It is a perspective view of the back side of a gaming machine. It is a block diagram of the whole gaming machine. It is a block diagram of an image control board. It is a figure which shows a big hit determination table and a hit determination table. It is a figure which shows a symbol determination table. It is a figure which shows the fluctuation pattern determination table with respect to a special symbol. It is a figure which shows the main process in a main control board. It is a figure which shows the timer interruption process in a main control board. It is a figure which shows the input control process in a main control board. It is a figure which shows the special figure special electric control process in a main control board. It is a figure which shows the special symbol memory | storage determination process in a main control board. It is a figure which shows the classification of the command transmitted to a production | presentation control board from a main control board. It is a figure which shows the variation production pattern determination table. It is a figure which shows the main process in an effect control board. It is a figure which shows the timer interruption process in an effect control board. It is a figure which shows the command analysis process 1 in an effect control board. It is a figure which shows the command analysis process 2 in an effect control board. It is a figure which shows the main process in an image control board. It is a figure which shows the interruption process in an image control board. It is a figure which shows the time control process in an image control board. It is a table figure which shows the storage content of the time storage area of RTC. It is a schematic diagram which shows the outline | summary of the time control process of main body management time. It is a timing chart showing the production mode of the gaming machine from the time of turning on the power of the gaming machine until the closing of the game shop. It is a timing chart which shows the example of symbol change in a special production mode, and production display. It is a scene view of a game hall showing an example of effect display in which the same effect is displayed at the same time on a plurality of gaming machines.

Hereinafter, a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
(Composition of gaming machine)
FIG. 1 is a front view showing a gaming machine according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the back side of the gaming machine.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the gaming machine 1 includes an outer frame 60 attached to an island facility of a game store, and a glass frame 50 that is rotatably supported by the outer frame 60 (FIG. 1). (See FIG. 2). Further, the outer frame 60 is provided with a game board 2 in which a game area 6 in which game balls flow down is formed. The game board 2 is made of a transparent plate such as reinforced plastic or polycarbonate. In the glass frame 50, an operation handle 3 for launching a game ball toward the game area 6 by being rotated, an audio output device 32 including a speaker, an effect lighting device 34 having a plurality of lamps, An effect button 35 for changing the effect mode by a pressing operation and a cross key 39 for inputting a predetermined selection operation by the player are provided.

  Further, when the player touches the operation handle 3, the touch sensor 3a (see FIG. 3) provided inside the operation handle 3 detects that the operation handle 3 and the player are in contact with each other. The energization of the firing solenoid 4a (see FIG. 3) is permitted. Further, when the player rotates the operation handle 3, the firing volume 3b (see FIG. 3) composed of a variable resistor directly connected to the operation handle 3 is also rotated, and the firing volume 3b is turned into the firing control board 160 (see FIG. 3). (3) is varied.

  The launch control board 160 energizes the launch solenoid 4a, which is a rotary solenoid, based on the voltage varied by the launch volume 3b. When the firing solenoid 4a is energized, the launch member directly connected to the launch solenoid 4a rotates, and the game ball stored at the end of the downward slope of the launch rail is launched by the launch member, and the game ball is launched. Will be.

  When the game ball launched as described above rises between the launch rails between the rails 5a and 5b and exceeds the ball return prevention piece 5c, the game ball reaches the game area 6 and then falls in the game area 6. At this time, the game ball falls unpredictably by a plurality of nails and windmills provided in the game area 6.

  The game area 6 is provided with a plurality of general winning awards 12. Each of these general winning awards 12 is provided with a general winning opening detecting switch 12a (see FIG. 3). When this general winning opening detecting switch 12a detects the winning of a game ball, a predetermined winning ball (for example, 10) Game balls).

Further, the game area 6 is provided with a normal symbol gate 13 that constitutes a normal area through which game balls can pass.
The normal symbol gate 13 is provided with a gate detection switch 13a (see FIG. 3) for detecting the passage of the game ball. When the gate detection switch 13a detects the passage of the game ball, the “normal symbol of the normal symbol” will be described later. "Lottery" is performed.

  In addition, the game area 6 includes a first start port 14 and a second start port 15 that constitute a start area in which a game ball can enter, a first grand prize port 16 in which a game ball can enter, and a second grand prize. A mouth 17 is provided.

  The second start port 15 is composed of an opening formed in the game board 2. A lower part of the second starting port 15 has a second starting port opening / closing door 15b that can protrude from the game board surface side to the glass plate side, and the second starting port opening / closing door 15b protrudes from the game board surface. The movement control is performed in one mode (open state) and in a second mode (closed state) buried in the game board surface.

  When the second start port opening / closing door 15b protrudes from the game board surface, it functions as a tray for guiding the game ball into the second start port 15, and the game ball can enter the second start port 15.

  Here, the first start port 14 is provided with a first start port detection switch 14a (see FIG. 3) for detecting the entrance of a game ball. The second start port 15 is provided with a second start port detection switch 15a (see FIG. 3) that detects the entry of a game ball. When the first start port detection switch 14a or the second start port detection switch 15a detects the entrance of a game ball, a lottery for acquiring a right to execute a jackpot game (to be described later) (hereinafter referred to as a “hit lottery”) is performed. Is called. Also, when the first start port detection switch 14a or the second start port detection switch 15a detects the entry of a game ball, a predetermined prize ball (for example, three game balls) is paid out.

  The first grand prize opening 16 is normally kept closed by the first big prize opening opening / closing door 16b, and it is impossible to enter a game ball. In contrast, when a special game, which will be described later, is started, the first grand prize opening opening / closing door 16b is opened, and the first big prize opening opening / closing door 16b puts the game ball in the first big winning opening 16; It functions as a receiving tray that guides the game ball and can enter the first grand prize opening 16. The first big prize opening 16 is provided with a first big prize opening detection switch 16a (see FIG. 3). When the first big prize opening detection switch 16a detects the entry of a game ball, it is set in advance. Prize balls (for example, 15 game balls) are paid out.

  In addition, the second grand prize opening 17 has a second big prize opening movable piece 17b. Normally, the second big prize opening movable piece 17b is maintained in a closed state so that a game ball can be entered. It is impossible. On the other hand, when the second large winning opening movable piece 17b is in the open state, the game ball can enter the second large winning opening 17. The second big prize opening 17 is provided with a second big prize opening detection switch 17a (see FIG. 3). When the second big prize opening detection switch 17a detects the entry of a game ball, it is set in advance. Award balls (for example, 15 game balls) are paid out.

  Furthermore, at the bottom of the game area 6, the player does not enter any of the general winning opening 12, the first starting opening 14, the second starting opening 15, the first major winning opening 16, and the second major winning opening 17. An out port 11 is provided for discharging the game balls.

  In addition, a decoration member 7 that affects the flow of the game ball is provided in the center of the game area 6. An effect display device (LCD) 31 is provided at a substantially central portion of the decoration member 7, and an effect drive device 33 is provided above the effect display device 31.

  The effect display device 31 displays an image during standby when no game is being performed, or displays an image according to the progress of the game. Among them, three effect symbols 36 for informing the jackpot lottery result, which will be described later, are displayed, and a combination of specific effect symbols 36 (for example, 777) is stopped and displayed as a jackpot lottery result. A jackpot is announced. Furthermore, the effect display device 31 performs effect display by other animation or the like.

  More specifically, when a game ball enters the first start port 14 or the second start port 15, the three effect symbols 36 are scroll-displayed, and the scroll is stopped after a predetermined time, The effect design 36 is stopped and displayed. Further, by displaying various images, characters, and the like during the variation display of the effect symbol 36, a high expectation that the player may win a big hit is given to the player.

  The effect driving device 33 gives a player a sense of expectation according to the operation mode. The effect drive device 33 performs, for example, an operation of moving an accessory downward and appearing on the front surface of the game board 2. Various operational feelings are given to the player depending on the operation mode of the effect driving device 33.

  Furthermore, in addition to the above-described various production devices, the audio output device 32 outputs BGM (background music), SE (sound effects), etc., and produces productions using sound. The illumination direction and the emission color are changed to produce an effect by illumination.

  The effect button 35 can be used to input a player's operation instruction. For example, the effect button 35 is effective only when a message for operating the effect button 35 is displayed on the effect display device 31. It is like that. The effect button 35 is provided with an effect button detection switch 35a (see FIG. 3), and this effect button detection switch 35a detects an input of an operation instruction from the player. When the effect button detection switch 35a detects the input of the operation instruction, the gaming machine 1 executes a further effect based on the detection result.

  The cross key 39 can input a player's operation and selection instructions. The cross key 39 has an up cursor key 39A, a down cursor key 39B, a left cursor key 39C, and a right cursor key 39D, and each moves the operation instruction position displayed on the effect display device 31 in the vertical and horizontal directions. It is.

  Like the effect button 35, the up cursor key 39A, the down cursor key 39B, the left cursor key 39C, and the right cursor key 39D are respectively provided with cross key detection switches 39a, 39b, 39c, and 39d (see FIG. 3). The player's operation and selection instruction input are detected.

  Below the game area 6, a first special symbol display device 20, a second special symbol display device 21, a normal symbol display device 22, a first special symbol hold indicator 23, a second special symbol hold indicator 24, a normal symbol A hold indicator 25 is provided.

  The first special symbol display device 20 is a variable display device that displays a result (lottery etc.) of a lottery of the first special symbol that is performed when a game ball enters the first start port 14. The second special symbol display device 21 is a variable display device that displays a result (lottery etc.) of a lottery of the second special symbol performed when a game ball enters the second start port 15.

  One or more special symbols are preset in the lottery result of each special symbol, and when the special symbol lottery is performed, the special symbol corresponding to the lottery result is displayed in the first special symbol display device 20, It is displayed on the second special symbol display device 21 in a stopped state. That is, the special symbol stop display in the first special symbol display device 20 and the second special symbol display device 21 is a notification of the result of the special symbol lottery.

  The first special symbol display device 20 and the second special symbol display device 21 each have, for example, a plurality of LEDs, and when winning a jackpot, a specific LED corresponding to the jackpot is lit, which is a loss. In this case, a specific LED corresponding to the loss is turned on. In this way, external symbols such as characters, figures, and patterns that appear when the LEDs of the first special symbol display device 20 and the second special symbol display device 21 are lit constitute a special symbol. In this way, the special symbol is displayed for a predetermined time before it stops. That is, a special symbol display is performed for one special symbol lottery, and a special symbol variation display and a special symbol stop display are performed in one special symbol display.

  Here, the “successful lottery” means that when a game ball enters the first start port 14 or the second start port 15, a special symbol determination random number value is acquired, and the acquired special symbol determination random value is acquired. Is a random number value corresponding to “big hit” or a random number value corresponding to “small hit”. This jackpot lottery result is not displayed immediately as described above, but a special symbol is displayed in a blinking manner and the special symbol corresponding to the jackpot lottery result is displayed after a predetermined fluctuation time has elapsed. The stop is displayed.

  In the present embodiment, “big hit” means the right to execute a big hit game in the big win lottery performed on the condition that a game ball has entered the first start port 14 or the second start port 15. Say that you have won. In the “hit game”, a round game in which the first big prize opening 16 or the second big prize opening 17 is opened is performed, for example, 15 times in total. A predetermined time is set for the maximum opening time of the first grand prize port 16 or the second grand prize port 17 in each round game, and during this time, the first grand prize port 16 or the second grand prize port 17 is set. When a predetermined number of game balls (for example, nine) enter, one round game is completed.

  In other words, the “big hit game” is that a game ball enters the first grand prize winning port 16 or the second big prize winning port 17 and the player can acquire a prize ball according to the winning ball. It is a game that can earn. This jackpot game is provided with a plurality of types of jackpots, which will be described in detail later.

  The normal symbol display device 22 is a variable display device that displays a normal symbol lottery result that is triggered by the passing of a game ball through the normal symbol gate 13. A normal symbol is set as the result of the normal symbol lottery, and when the normal symbol lottery is performed, the normal symbol corresponding to the result of the lottery is displayed on the normal symbol display device 22 in a stopped state. That is, the stop display of the normal symbol on the normal symbol display device 22 is a notification of the result of the lottery of the normal symbol.

  The normal symbol display device 22 includes, for example, a plurality of LEDs. When winning, the specific LED corresponding to the winning is turned on, and when it is lost, the specific LED corresponding to the lost is displayed. Light. In this way, the appearances such as characters, figures, and patterns that appear when the LEDs of the normal symbol display device 22 are lit constitute a normal symbol. Before the normal symbol stops, the appearance changes. indicate. That is, the normal symbol display is performed for one normal symbol lottery, and the normal symbol variation display and the normal symbol stop display are performed in one normal symbol display. In addition, as will be described in detail later, when winning is won by this normal symbol lottery, the normal symbol display device 22 is stopped as described above, and then the second start port 15 is displayed for a predetermined time. It is controlled in two aspects.

  Here, “normal symbol lottery” means that when a game ball passes through the normal symbol gate 13, the normal symbol determination random number value is acquired, and the acquired normal symbol determination random value corresponds to “winning”. This is a process for determining whether or not a random value. As for the normal symbol lottery result, the game ball passes through the normal symbol gate 13 as described above, and the lottery result is not displayed immediately, but the normal symbol display device 22 displays a variation such as blinking of the normal symbol. When a predetermined fluctuation time has elapsed, the normal symbol corresponding to the normal symbol lottery result is stopped and displayed so that the player can display the lottery result.

  In addition, during the special symbol variation display or during a special game, which will be described later, a game ball enters the first start port 14 or the second start port 15, and the special symbol variation display is immediately performed, and the special symbol lottery is performed. This result is not always notified. For example, a special symbol change display (definite notification of a special symbol lottery result) is put on hold under certain conditions. As a fixed condition, an upper limit is set for the number of special symbols that can be suspended.

  In the present embodiment, the upper limit value is set to “4” for each of the first start port 14 and the second start port 15. That is, it is possible to hold up to four special symbol variation displays, that is, special symbol lottery rights, for each of the first start port 14 and the second start port 15.

  The first special symbol hold indicator 23 corresponds to the first start port 14, and the second special symbol hold indicator 24 corresponds to the second start port 15, and the first special symbol hold indicator 23 and the second special symbol hold indicator 23 On each of the 2 special symbol hold indicators 24, the current hold numbers (U1, U2) are displayed in a predetermined manner. Similarly, for the normal symbol variation display, the upper limit number of reservations is set to four, and the number of reservations is displayed on the normal symbol reservation display 25.

  The glass frame 50 supports a glass plate that covers the game area 6 so as to be visible in front of the game board 2 (player side). The glass plate is detachably fixed to the glass frame 50.

  The glass frame 50 is connected to the outer frame 60 via a hinge mechanism 51 on one end side in the left-right direction (for example, the left side facing the gaming machine 1), and the left-right direction with the hinge mechanism 51 as a fulcrum. The other end side (for example, the right side facing the gaming machine 1) can be rotated in a direction to release from the outer frame 60. The glass frame 50 covers the game board 2 together with the glass plate, and can rotate like a door with the hinge mechanism 51 as a fulcrum to open the inner part of the outer frame 60 including the game board 2.

  On the other end side of the glass frame 50, a lock mechanism for fixing the other end side of the glass frame 50 to the outer frame 60 is provided. The fixing by the lock mechanism can be released by a dedicated key. The glass frame 50 is also provided with a door opening switch 133 (see FIG. 3) for detecting whether or not the glass frame 50 is opened from the outer frame 60.

  On the back side of the gaming machine 1, a main control board 110, an effect control board 120, a payout control board 130, a power supply board 170, a game information output terminal board 30, and the like are provided. Further, the power supply board 170 is provided with a power plug 171 for supplying power to the gaming machine 1 and a power switch (not shown).

(Block diagram of the entire gaming machine)
Next, FIG. 3 shows an overall block diagram of the gaming machine 1, and the control means for controlling the progress of the game will be described.

  The main control board 110 is a main control means for controlling the basic operation of the game, and inputs various detection signals from the first start port detection switch 14a, etc., and opens and closes the first special symbol display device 20 and the second big prize opening. The game is controlled by driving the solenoid 17c and the like.

  The main control board 110 includes a one-chip microcomputer 110m including a main CPU 110a, a main ROM 110b, and a main RAM 110c, an input port for main control (not shown), and an output port.

  The main control input port includes a payout control board 130, a general winning port detection switch 12a for detecting that a game ball has entered the general winning port 12, and a game ball having entered the normal symbol gate 13. Gate detection switch 13a to detect, first start port detection switch 14a to detect that a game ball has entered the first start port 14, and second start to detect that a game ball has entered the second start port 15 The mouth detection switch 15a, the first grand prize opening detection switch 16a that detects that a game ball has entered the first grand prize opening 16, and the second that detects that a game ball has entered the second grand prize opening 17 A big prize opening detection switch 17a is connected. Various signals are input to the main control board 110 through the main control input port.

  Further, the payout control board 130, the start opening / closing solenoid 15c for opening / closing the second start opening / closing door 15b of the second start opening 15, and the first big prize opening opening / closing door 16b are operated to the output port for main control. A first large winning opening / closing solenoid 16c, a second large winning opening / closing solenoid 17c for operating the second large winning opening movable piece 17b, a first special symbol display device 20 and a second special symbol display device 21 for displaying special symbols, Normal symbol display device 22 for displaying normal symbols, first special symbol hold indicator 23 and second special symbol hold indicator 24 for displaying the number of reserved balls for special symbols, normal symbol hold for displaying the number of reserved balls for normal symbols A display 25 and a game information output terminal board 30 for outputting an external information signal are connected. Various signals are output from the main control board 110 through the main control output port.

  The main CPU 110a reads out a program stored in the main ROM 110b based on an input signal from each detection switch or timer, performs arithmetic processing, directly controls each device or display, or determines the result of the arithmetic processing. In response, a command is transmitted to another board.

  In the main CPU 110a, it is possible to perform a jackpot lottery on the holding ball before the lottery processing on the holding ball and pre-acquire (pre-read) the lottery result. The image is sent to the image control board 150 via the effect control board 120.

The main ROM 110b of the main control board 110 stores a game control program, data and tables necessary for determining various games.
For example, a jackpot determination table referred to in the jackpot lottery (see FIG. 5), a hit determination table referred to in the normal symbol lottery (see FIG. 5), and a symbol determination table for determining a special symbol stop symbol (see FIG. 6). A variation pattern determination table (see FIG. 7) for determining the variation pattern of the special symbol is stored in the main ROM 110b.

  Note that the above-described table is merely an example of characteristic tables among the tables in the present embodiment, and a number of other tables and programs (not shown) are provided for the progress of the game. It has been.

  The main RAM 110c of the main control board 110 functions as a data work area during the arithmetic processing of the main CPU 110a and has a plurality of storage areas.

  For example, in the main RAM 110c, the normal symbol hold number (G) storage area, the normal symbol hold storage area, the first special symbol hold number (U1) storage area, the second special symbol hold number (U2) storage area, the first special hold Design random number value storage area, second special symbol random number value storage area, round game number (R) storage area, number of times released (K) storage area, number of winning games (C) storage area, game state storage area (high (Probable game flag storage area and short-time game flag storage area), high-probability game count (X) counter, short-time count (J) counter, stop symbol data storage area, effect transmission data storage area, special symbol time counter, special game timer Various storage areas such as a counter are provided. Note that the above-described storage area is merely an example, and many other storage areas are provided.

  The game information output terminal board 30 is a board for outputting an external information signal generated in the main control board 110 to a hall computer or the like of the game shop. The game information output terminal board 30 is connected to the main control board 110 by wiring, and is provided with a connector for connecting external information to a hall computer or the like of a game store.

  The power supply board 170 includes a backup power supply made of a capacitor, supplies a power supply voltage to the gaming machine 1, and monitors a power supply voltage supplied to the gaming machine 1, An interruption detection signal is output to the main control board 110. More specifically, when the power interruption detection signal becomes high level, the main CPU 110a enters an operable state, and when the power interruption detection signal becomes low level, the main CPU 110a enters an operation stop state. The backup power source is not limited to a capacitor, and may be a battery, for example, or a capacitor and a battery may be used in combination.

  The effect control board 120 mainly controls each effect such as during a game or standby. The effect control board 120 includes a sub CPU 120a, a sub ROM 120b, and a sub RAM 120c, and is connected to the main control board 110 so as to be communicable in one direction from the main control board 110 to the effect control board 120. .

  The sub CPU 120a is stored in the sub ROM 120b based on a command transmitted from the main control board 110 or an input signal from the effect button detection switch 35a, the cross key detection switches 39a, 39b, 39c, 39d, and a timer. The program is read to perform arithmetic processing, and corresponding data is transmitted to the lamp control board 140 or the image control board 150 based on the processing.

  For example, when the sub CPU 120a in the effect control board 120 receives the change pattern designation command indicating the change pattern of the special symbol from the main control board 110, the sub CPU 120a analyzes the content of the received change pattern designation command, produces the effect display device 31, and the sound. Data for causing the output device 32, the effect driving device 33, and the effect lighting device 34 to execute a predetermined effect is generated, and the data is transmitted to the image control board 150 and the lamp control board 140.

  Through the above process, the sub CPU 120a performs display control of the effect image displayed by the effect display device 31. In particular, the sub CPU 120 a performs display control of the effect image displayed by the effect display device 31 based on an input operation to the effect button 35.

  The sub ROM 120b of the effect control board 120 stores a program for effect control, data necessary for determining various games, and a table.

  For example, an effect pattern determination table for determining an effect pattern based on a variation pattern designation command received from the main control board, an effect symbol determination table for determining a combination of effect symbols 36 to be stopped, and the like are stored in the sub ROM 120b. Has been.

  Note that the above-described table is merely an example of characteristic tables among the tables in the present embodiment, and a number of other tables and programs (not shown) are provided for the progress of the game. It has been.

  The sub RAM 120c of the effect control board 120 functions as a data work area when the sub CPU 120a performs arithmetic processing, and has a plurality of storage areas.

  The sub RAM 120c is provided with a game state storage area, an effect mode storage area, an effect pattern storage area, an effect symbol storage area, and the like. Note that the above-described storage area is merely an example, and many other storage areas are provided.

  The payout control board 130 performs payout control of game balls. The payout control board 130 includes a one-chip microcomputer including a payout CPU, a payout ROM, and a payout RAM (not shown), and is connected to the main control board 110 so as to be capable of bidirectional communication.

  Also, the payout control board 130 is connected to a payout ball count detection switch 132 and a door opening switch 133 for detecting whether or not a game ball has been paid out to the input side, and a predetermined amount from the storage portion of the game ball to the output side. A payout motor 131 of a prize ball payout device for paying out a number of game balls is connected.

  The payout CPU reads out the program stored in the payout ROM based on the input signals from the payout ball count detection switch 132, the door opening switch 133 and the timer, performs arithmetic processing, and based on the processing, the corresponding data Is transmitted to the main control board 110.

  Further, the payout CPU reads out a predetermined program from the payout ROM based on the payout number designation command transmitted from the main control board 110, performs arithmetic processing, and controls the payout motor 131 of the prize ball payout device to perform the predetermined processing. Pay out the game balls. At this time, the payout RAM functions as a data work area at the time of calculation processing of the payout CPU.

  The lamp control board 140 controls the lighting of the effect lighting device 34 provided on the game board 2 and controls the driving of the motor for changing the light irradiation direction. In addition, energization control is performed on a drive source such as a solenoid or a motor that operates the effect driving device 33. The lamp control board 140 is connected to the effect control board 120 and performs the above-described controls based on data transmitted from the effect control board 120.

  The image control board 150 is connected to the production control board 120 so as to be capable of bidirectional communication, and the production display device 31 and the audio output device 32 are connected to the output side thereof. The image control board 150 performs image display control in the effect display device 31 and sound output control in the sound output device 32 based on various commands transmitted from the effect control board 120. Details of the image control board 150 will be described later.

  The launch control board 160 performs launch control of the game ball. The launch control board 160 has a touch sensor 3a and a launch volume 3b connected to the input side, and a launch solenoid 4a and a ball feed solenoid 4b connected to the output side.

  The firing control board 160 inputs a touch signal from the touch sensor 3a and performs control to energize the firing solenoid 4a and the ball feed solenoid 4b based on the voltage supplied from the firing volume 3b.

  The touch sensor 3a is provided in the inside of the operation handle 3, and is comprised from the electrostatic capacitance type proximity switch using the change of the electrostatic capacitance by the player touching the operation handle 3. When the touch sensor 3a detects that the player has touched the operation handle 3, the touch sensor 3a outputs a touch signal permitting the energization of the firing solenoid 4a to the firing control board 160. The launch control board 160 is configured not to launch a game ball into the game area 6 unless a touch signal is input from the touch sensor 3a.

  The firing volume 3b is composed of a variable resistor, and a constant voltage (for example, 5V) applied to the firing volume 3b is divided by the variable resistor, and the divided voltage is supplied to the firing control board 160.

  The launching solenoid 4a is composed of a rotary solenoid, and a launching member is directly connected to the launching solenoid 4a. When the launching solenoid 4a rotates, a game ball is launched by the launching member.

  Here, the rotation speed of the firing solenoid 4a is set to about 99.9 (times / minute) based on the frequency based on the output period of the crystal oscillator provided on the firing control board 160. As a result, the number of games played per minute is about 99.9 (pieces / minute) because one shot is fired every time the firing solenoid rotates. That is, one game ball is fired about every 0.6 seconds.

  The ball feed solenoid 4b is composed of a linear solenoid, and sends out the game balls in the tray one by one toward a launching member directly connected to the firing solenoid 4a.

  An RTC (real time clock) 180 measures time, and an image control board 150 is connected to the output side thereof. Further, the RTC 180 has a battery (not shown), and even when the power supply voltage cannot be supplied from the power supply board 170, the time keeping is continued, and the time keeping is continued from the factory shipment. To do. The RTC 180 is not limited to a battery, and may be supplied with a power supply voltage by another backup power source. Further, this backup power supply can use a backup power supply provided on the power supply board 170.

  The RTC 180 stores the time in the time storage area in the form of predetermined time information, and rewrites the time information in this time storage area for each unit update time. Specifically, the RTC 180 generates 1 second as a unit update time by an RTC-specific clock generator different from the clock generator provided in the gaming machine 1, and updates time information every second. Yes. Furthermore, the RTC 180 has time information such as “year”, “month”, “day”, “hour”, “minute”, “second”, and each time information includes 8 bits in the time storage area. Assigned and stored in their respective formats.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 22, bits 0 to 7 are provided in the time storage area (register table) of the RTC 180 as a storage area representing seconds (s). Bit 0 represents 1 s, bit 1 represents 2 s, bit 2 represents 4 s, and bit 3 represents 8 s. Further, bit 4 represents 10 s, bit 5 represents 20 s, and bit 6 represents 40 s. Bit 7 can always read “0”.

  In such a time storage area, for example, to represent 59 s, “1” is stored in bit 6 and bit 4 (“0” is stored in bit 5), thereby representing 50 s and bit 3 By storing “1” in bit 1 and bit 1 (“0” is stored in bit 2 and bit 0), 9s is represented.

  Similarly, bits 0 to 7 are provided in the time storage area (register table) of the RTC 180 as a storage area representing the minute (m). Bit 0 represents 1 m, bit 1 represents 2 m, bit 2 represents 4 m, and bit 3 represents 8 m. Further, bit 4 represents 10 m, bit 5 represents 20 m, and bit 6 represents 40 m. Bit 7 can always read “0”.

Further, bit 0 to bit 7 are provided in the time storage area (register table) of the RTC 180 as a storage area representing time (h). Bit 0 represents 1h, bit 1 represents 2h, bit 2 represents 4h, and bit 3 represents 8h. Further, bit 4 represents 10 hours and bit 5 represents 20 hours. Bits 6 and 7 can always read “0”.
It should be noted that storage areas such as day (D), month (M), and year (Y) are also provided in the time storage area (register table) of RTC 180 in the same manner as bits 0 to 7.

  Next, FIG. 4 shows a block diagram of the image control board 150, and the configuration of the image control board 150 and image display control will be described.

  The image control board 150 includes a host CPU 150a, a control RAM 150b, a control ROM 150c, a CGROM 151, a crystal oscillator 152, a VRAM 153, a VDP (Video Display Processor) 154, and a sound control circuit 155 for performing image display control of the effect display device 31. Yes.

  The host CPU 150a controls the VDP 154 based on the effect pattern designation command received from the effect control board 120, and causes the effect display device 31 to display the image data stored in the CGROM 151. The control of the VDP 154 of the host CPU 150a is performed by setting data in a control register (not shown) of the VDP 154 and outputting a display list including drawing control command groups. In addition, when receiving a V blank interrupt signal or a drawing end signal from the VDP 154, the host CPU 150a appropriately performs an interrupt process. The host CPU 150a is an 8-bit CPU, and the amount of data that can be read and written once is 8 bits.

Further, the host CPU 150 a controls the sound control circuit 155 to cause the audio output device 32 to output predetermined audio data based on the effect pattern designation command received from the effect control board 120.
Further, the host CPU 150a manages the time of the main body (referred to as main body management time) based on the time information of the RTC 180. This time management process will be described later.

  The control RAM 150b is built in the host CPU 150a, functions as a data work area when the host CPU 150a performs arithmetic processing, and temporarily stores data read from the control ROM 150c.

  In addition, the control ROM 150c stores a control processing program for the host CPU 150a, a display list generation program for generating a display list, an animation pattern for displaying an animation of an effect pattern, animation scene information, and the like.

  This animation pattern is referred to when displaying the animation of the production pattern, and stores the combination of animation scene information included in the production pattern, the display order of each animation scene information, and the like. The animation scene information stores information such as weight frame (display time), target data (sprite identification number, transfer source address, etc.), parameters (sprite display position, transfer destination address, etc.), drawing method, etc. doing.

  The CGROM 151 stores a large number of image data such as effect symbols 36 and backgrounds displayed on the effect display device 31. The CGROM 151 stores image data such as characters for each of a plurality of layers.

  The crystal oscillator 152 outputs a pulse signal to the VDP 154, and divides the pulse signal so as to synchronize with the system clock and the effect display device 31 for the VDP 154 to control by the clock generation circuit of the VDP 154 (not shown). Are generated.

  The VRAM 153 is composed of a high-speed SRAM for writing and reading image data, and is used as a temporary storage area for image display. The VRAM 153 also temporarily displays a display list output from the host CPU 150a, a display storage area for storing data obtained by decompressing image data stored in the CGROM 151, and the like for drawing or displaying an image. The first frame buffer and the second frame buffer are provided.

  The first frame buffer and the second frame buffer are switched between “drawing frame buffer” and “display frame buffer” each time drawing is started.

  The VDP 154 is an image processor controlled by the host CPU 150a. The VDP 154 develops predetermined image data stored in the CGROM 151 in the VRAM 153 and draws the image data in one frame buffer (drawing frame buffer). The VDP 154 reads the image data drawn from the other frame buffer (display frame buffer) of the VRAM 153, generates a video signal (RGB signal, etc.) based on the read image data, and outputs it to the effect display device 31. Is.

  The sound control circuit 155 includes a sound CPU that performs sound output control, a sound RAM that functions as a work area, and a sound ROM that stores a large number of predetermined programs and sound data. The sound control circuit 155 reads out a predetermined program from the sound ROM based on a command transmitted from the effect control board 120 by the sound CPU and performs sound output control in the sound output device 32.

  Next, details of various tables stored in the main ROM 110b will be described with reference to FIGS.

(Big hit judgment table)
FIG. 5A-1 and FIG. 5A-2 are diagrams showing a jackpot determination table used for the “big winning lottery”. FIG. 5 (a-1) is a jackpot determination table referred to in the first special symbol display device 20, and FIG. 5 (a-2) is a jackpot determination table referred to in the second special symbol display device 21. is there. In the tables of FIG. 5 (a-1) and FIG. 5 (a-2), although the winning probabilities for the small hits are different, the jackpot probabilities are the same.

  Specifically, the jackpot determination table is for determining whether the jackpot, the jackpot, or the loss is based on the probable gaming state and the acquired random number for determining a special symbol.

For example, according to the jackpot determination table for the first special symbol display device shown in FIG. 5 (a-1), two special symbol determination disturbances “7” and “8” are in the low probability gaming state. The number is determined to be a big hit.
On the other hand, in the high probability gaming state, 20 special symbol determination random numbers “7” to “26” are determined to be big hits.

  Further, according to the jackpot determination table for the first special symbol display device shown in FIG. 5 (a-1), the random number value for special symbol determination is obtained in the low probability gaming state or the high probability gaming state. In the case of four special symbol determination random numbers “50”, “100”, “150”, and “200”, it is determined as “small hit”. If the random number is other than the above, it is determined as “lost”.

  Therefore, since the random number range of the special symbol determination random number value is 0 to 598, the probability of being determined to be a big hit in the low probability gaming state is 1 / 299.5, and in the high probability gaming state, the big hit The probability to be determined is 10 times up to 1 / 29.95. In the first special symbol display device, the probability of being determined to be a small hit is 1 / 149.75 regardless of whether the game state is a low probability game state or a high probability game state.

(Winning judgment table)
FIG. 5B is a diagram showing a hit determination table used for “ordinary symbol lottery”.
Specifically, the winning determination table is for determining “winning” or “losing” based on the gaming state and the acquired random number for normal symbol determination.

  For example, according to the winning determination table shown in FIG. 5 (b), it is determined that one normal symbol determining random value of “0” is a winning when in the non-time saving gaming state. On the other hand, when in the short-time gaming state, it is determined that 65535 normal symbol determining random numbers from “0” to “65534” are hit. If the random number is other than the above, it is determined as “lost”.

  Accordingly, since the random number range of the normal symbol determination random number value is 0 to 65535, the probability of being determined to be hit in the non-short-time gaming state is 1/65536, and the probability of being determined to be winning in the time-short gaming state is 65535/65536 = 1 / 1.00002.

(Design determination table)
FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a symbol determination table for determining a special symbol stop symbol.
FIG. 6A is a symbol determination table that is referred to in order to determine a stop symbol at the time of a big hit, and FIG. 6B is a symbol that is referred to in order to determine a stop symbol at the time of a big hit. FIG. 6C is a symbol determination table that is referred to in order to determine a symbol to be stopped when a loss occurs.

  Specifically, according to the above symbol determination table, the type of the special symbol display device (the type of the start opening where the game ball has won) and the game ball has entered the first start port 14 or the second start port 15. The special symbol type (stop symbol data) is determined based on the jackpot symbol random number value or the small bonus symbol random number value that is sometimes obtained.

  For example, the first special symbol display device refers to the symbol determination table for the jackpot when the jackpot, and if the acquired jackpot symbol random value is “55”, the stop symbol data is “03” (special symbol 3). (2 per first probability variation short)). Further, in the first special symbol display device, in the case of a small hit, the symbol determination table for the small hit is referred, and if the acquired random number for the small hit symbol is “50”, the stop symbol data is “08” ( Special symbol B (small hit B)) is determined. Further, in the case of a loss, “00” (special symbol 0 (lost)) is determined as stop symbol data without referring to any random value.

  Then, at the time of starting the change of the special symbol, an effect designating command is generated as special symbol information based on the determined special symbol type (stop symbol data). Here, the effect designating command is composed of 2-byte data, and 1-byte MODE data for identifying the control command classification and 1-byte DATA indicating the contents of the control command to be executed. Data. The same applies to a variation pattern designation command described later.

  As will be described later, the gaming state and jackpot after the jackpot is determined by the special symbol type (stop symbol data), so the special symbol type determines the gaming state and jackpot after the jackpot. It can be said that.

(Special symbol variation pattern determination table)
FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a variation pattern determination table for determining a variation pattern of special symbols.

  Specifically, according to the special symbol variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 7, the special symbol display device that operates (the type of the starting opening that the game ball has won), the jackpot determination result, the type of the special symbol to stop, and the short-time game Based on the presence / absence of the state, the number of special symbol hold (U1 or U2), the reach determination random number value, and the special symbol variation random value, the variation pattern number of the special symbol is determined.

Then, based on the determined variation pattern number of the special symbol, the variation time of the special symbol is determined, and the special pattern variation pattern designation for transmitting the special symbol information (variation pattern number information) to the effect control board 120 A command is generated. Accordingly, the “special symbol variation pattern” includes at least information on the jackpot determination result and the special symbol variation time.
In addition, since a reach is always performed when a big hit or a small hit, the reach determination random number value is not referred to when a big hit or a small win. The reach determination random number value and the first variation random number value are set to 100 random numbers (0 to 99).

  Further, as a feature of the special symbol variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 7, when the jackpot determination result is lost, the special symbol variation time is likely to be shortened when the game is in the short-time gaming state. For example, when the jackpot determination result is a loss and the number of held balls is 2, if the game is in the short-time game state, the variation pattern 9 (shortening variation) with a variation time of 5000 ms with a probability of 95% based on the random number value for reach determination However, in the non-time-saving gaming state, a variation pattern in which the variation time exceeds 5000 ms is determined. In this manner, the variation time is set to be short when the time-saving gaming state is entered.

(Description of gaming state)
Next, the gaming state when the game progresses will be described. In the present embodiment, there are a “low probability gaming state” and a “high probability gaming state” as states related to the jackpot lottery, and the state regarding the second starting port opening / closing door 15b of the second starting port 15 is “non- “Time-short game state” and “Time-short game state”. The state relating to the jackpot lottery (low probability gaming state, high probability gaming state) and the state relating to the second start opening / closing door 15b (non-short-time gaming state, short-time gaming state) can also relate the respective states, It can also be made independent. That means
(1) “Low probability gaming state” and “Time saving gaming state”
(2) “Low probability gaming state” and “non-temporary gaming state”
(3) “High probability gaming state” and “short time gaming state”
(4) It is possible to provide a “high probability gaming state” and a “non-temporary gaming state”.

  Note that the gaming state when the game is started, that is, the initial gaming state of the gaming machine 1 is “low probability gaming state” and is set to “non-short-time gaming state”. In the form, it will be referred to as “normal gaming state”.

  In the present embodiment, the “low probability gaming state” means that in the jackpot lottery performed on the condition that a game ball has entered the first starting port 14 or the second starting port 15, For example, the game state set to 1 / 299.5.

  On the other hand, the “high probability gaming state” means a gaming state in which the jackpot winning probability is improved compared to the low probability gaming state, and the jackpot winning probability is set to 1 / 29.95, for example. . Therefore, in the “high probability gaming state”, it is easier to win a jackpot than in the “low probability gaming state”.

Note that a high-probability game flag, which will be described later, is set in this high-probability game state, and the high-probability game flag is off in the low-probability game state.
Further, the low probability gaming state is changed to the high probability gaming state after the jackpot game described later is finished.

  In the present embodiment, the “non-time-saving gaming state” means that, in a normal symbol lottery performed on the condition that a game ball has passed through the normal symbol gate 13, the variation time of the normal symbol corresponding to the lottery result is, for example, This is a gaming state in which the opening control time of the second start port 15 is set as short as, for example, 0.2 seconds when it is set as long as 29 seconds and the winning combination is won.

  That is, when the game ball passes through the normal symbol gate 13, the normal symbol is drawn, and the normal symbol display device 22 displays the fluctuation of the normal symbol, but the normal symbol is displayed 29 seconds after the fluctuation display is started. Stop display later. If the lottery result is a win, the second start port 15 is controlled to the second mode for about 0.2 seconds after the normal symbol stop display.

  On the other hand, the “short-time gaming state” means that the normal symbol variation time corresponding to the lottery result is, for example, 3 seconds in the normal symbol lottery performed on the condition that the game ball has passed through the normal symbol gate 13. And the opening control time of the second start port 15 when the winning is won is set to 3.5 seconds, for example, longer than the “non-short game state”. Refers to the game state.

  Further, in the “non-short game state”, the probability of winning in the normal symbol lottery is set to 1/65536, for example, and in the “short time game state”, the probability of winning in the normal symbol lottery is, for example, 65535 / 65536 is set. At this time, the short-time game flag, which will be described later, is set in the short-time game state, and the short-time game flag is off in the non-short-time game state.

Therefore, in the “short-time gaming state”, the second starting port 15 is more easily controlled to the second mode as long as the game ball passes through the normal symbol gate 13 than in the “non-short-time gaming state”. Thereby, in the “short-time gaming state”, the player can advance the game without consuming the game ball.
In addition, since the normal symbol gate 13 is provided in the area on the right side of the game area 6, in the “short-time game state”, the operation handle 3 is greatly rotated, and the game ball is launched with a strong launch strength. Is configured to do.
Note that the probability of winning in the normal symbol lottery may be set so that it does not change in any of the “non-short-time gaming state” and the “time-short gaming state”.

(Description of jackpot type)
In the present embodiment, there are two types of “big hits”: “long hit” that opens the first big prize opening 16 with a long opening time and “short hit” that opens the second big prize opening 17 with a short opening time. And one kind of “small hit” is provided. In this embodiment, the “big hit” and the “small win” are collectively referred to as “special game”.

  In the present embodiment, “long win” means that in the jackpot lottery performed on condition that a game ball has entered the first start port 14 or the second start port 15, A game that is executed when the corresponding special symbol is determined.

In “long winning”, a round game in which the first grand prize winning opening 16 is opened is performed, for example, 15 times in total. The maximum opening time of the first grand prize opening 16 in each round game is set to 29.5 seconds at the maximum, and if a prescribed number (for example, 9) of game balls enter the first big prize opening 16 during this period, One round game ends. In other words, “long win” is a special game that allows a player to acquire a large number of prize balls because a game ball enters the first grand prize opening 16 and a player can acquire a prize ball corresponding to the winning ball. is there.
In addition, since the first grand prize winning opening 16 is provided in the area on the right side of the game area 6, in the case of “long hit game”, the operation handle 3 is greatly rotated to launch the game ball with a strong launch intensity. And is configured to play a game.

  In the present embodiment, “short win” means that in the jackpot lottery performed on condition that a game ball has entered the first start port 14 or the second start port 15, A game that is executed when the corresponding special symbol is determined.

  In “short win”, a round game in which the second grand prize winning opening 17 is opened is performed, for example, 15 times in total. The maximum opening time of the second grand prize opening 17 in each round game is set to a maximum of 0.052 seconds, which is shorter than the firing time (about 0.6 seconds) at which one game ball is launched. Yes. During this time, when a prescribed number (for example, 9) of game balls enter the second grand prize opening 17, one round game ends, but as described above, the opening time of the second big prize opening 17 is extremely short. Therefore, game balls are rarely entered. That is, “short win” is a special game in which it is difficult to obtain a prize ball unlike “long win”.

  In the present embodiment, “small hit” means the right to execute a small hit game in the big hit lottery performed on the condition that a game ball has entered the first start port 14 or the second start port 15. A game that is executed when the player wins the game.

  In the “small win”, the second big prize winning opening 17 is opened 15 times as in the “short win”. At this time, the opening time, opening / closing timing, and opening / closing mode of the second grand prize winning port 17 are the same as the above “short win”, or the player cannot distinguish between “small win” and “short win” or difficult. It is set to approximate to some extent.

  Next, the progress of the game in the gaming machine 1 will be described using a flowchart.

(Main processing of main control board)
The main process of the main control board 110 will be described with reference to FIG.

  When power is supplied from the power supply board 170, a system reset occurs in the main CPU 110a, and the main CPU 110a performs the following main processing.

  First, in step S10, the main CPU 110a performs an initialization process. In this process, the main CPU 110a reads a startup program from the main ROM 110b and initializes a flag stored in the main RAM 110c in response to power-on.

  In step S20, the main CPU 110a performs an effect random number update process for updating the reach determination random value and the special figure variation random value for determining the variation mode (variation time) of the special symbol.

  In step S30, the main CPU 110a updates the initial random number value for special symbol determination, the initial random number value for big hit symbol, the initial random number value for small bonus symbol, and the initial random number value for normal symbol determination. Thereafter, the processes of step S20 and step S30 are repeated until a predetermined interrupt process is performed.

(Timer interrupt processing of main control board)
The timer interrupt process of the main control board 110 will be described with reference to FIG.

  A clock pulse is generated every predetermined period (4 milliseconds) by the reset clock pulse generation circuit provided on the main control board 110, thereby executing a timer interrupt process described below.

  First, in step S100, the main CPU 110a saves the information stored in the register of the main CPU 110a to the stack area.

  In step S110, the main CPU 110a performs time control processing. In this time control process, for example, a special symbol time counter update process, a special game timer counter update process such as a special electric accessory release time, a normal symbol time counter update process, a normal train open time counter update process, etc. The process of updating various timer counters is performed. Specifically, a process of subtracting 1 from a special symbol time counter, a special game timer counter, a normal symbol time counter, and a general electricity open time counter is performed.

  In step S120, the main CPU 110a performs a random number update process for the special symbol determination random number value, the big hit symbol random number value, the small hit symbol random number value, and the normal symbol determination random number value.

  Specifically, each random number value and random number counter are updated by adding +1. When the added random number counter exceeds the maximum value in the random number range (when the random number counter makes one revolution), the random number counter is returned to 0, and each random number value is newly updated from the initial random number value at that time. .

  In step S130, as in step S30, the main CPU 110a updates the initial random number value for special symbol determination, the initial random number value for jackpot symbol, the initial random number value for small bonus symbol, and the initial random number value for normal symbol determination. Perform numerical value update processing.

In step S200, the main CPU 110a performs input control processing.
In this process, the main CPU 110a includes a general winning opening detection switch 12a, a first large winning opening detection switch 16a, a second large winning opening detection switch 17a, a first starting opening detection switch 14a, a second starting opening detection switch 15a, a gate. It is determined whether or not there is an input to the various switches of the detection switch 13a. If there is an input, input control processing for setting predetermined data is performed. Details will be described later with reference to FIG.

  In step S300, the main CPU 110a performs a special drawing special electric control process for controlling the jackpot lottery, the special electric accessory, and the gaming state. Details will be described later with reference to FIG.

In step S400, the main CPU 110a performs a general-purpose normal power control process for performing normal symbol lottery and control of a normal electric accessory.
Specifically, it is first determined whether or not 1 or more data is set in the normal symbol hold count (G) storage area, and 1 or more data must be set in the normal symbol hold count (G) storage area. If this is the case, the current ordinary power transmission control process is terminated.

  If 1 or more data is set in the normal symbol holding number (G) storage area, after subtracting 1 from the value stored in the normal symbol holding number (G) storage area, the data is in the normal symbol holding storage area. The normal symbol determination random numbers stored in the first storage unit to the fourth storage unit are shifted to the previous storage unit. At this time, the normal symbol determination random value already written in the 0th storage unit is overwritten and erased.

  Then, referring to the hit determination table shown in FIG. 5B, it is determined whether or not the normal symbol determination random number value stored in the 0th storage unit of the normal symbol hold storage area is a random value corresponding to “win”. Perform the process. Thereafter, the normal symbol display device 22 displays the fluctuation of the normal symbol. When the fluctuation time of the normal symbol elapses, the normal symbol corresponding to the result of the normal symbol lottery is stopped and displayed. If the random number for normal symbol determination referred to is “winning”, the start opening / closing solenoid 15c is driven to control the second start opening 15 to the second mode for a predetermined opening time.

  Here, in the non-short-time gaming state, the variation time of the normal symbol is set to 29 seconds, and if it is “winning”, the second start port 15 is controlled to the second mode for 0.2 seconds. On the other hand, in the short-time gaming state, the normal symbol variation time is set to 0.2 seconds, and if it is “winning”, the second start port 15 is controlled to the second mode for 3.5 seconds. .

In step S500, the main CPU 110a performs a payout control process.
In this payout control process, the main CPU 110a refers to each prize ball counter, generates payout number designation commands corresponding to various winning ports, and transmits the generated payout number designation commands to the payout control board 130. To do.

  In step S600, the main CPU 110a, external information data, start opening / closing solenoid data, first big prize opening opening / closing solenoid data, second big prize opening opening / closing solenoid data, special symbol display device data, normal symbol display device data, the number of memories Performs data creation for the specified command.

  In step S700, the main CPU 110a performs output control processing. In this process, a port output process is performed for outputting signals of the external information data, the start opening / closing solenoid data, the first big prize opening / closing solenoid data, and the second big prize opening / closing solenoid data created in S600.

  Further, the special symbol display device data and the normal symbol display device data created in S600 are used to turn on the LEDs of the first special symbol display device 20, the second special symbol display device 21 and the normal symbol display device 22. Display device output processing is performed.

  Further, command transmission processing for transmitting the command set in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c to the effect control board 120 is also performed. The types of various commands transmitted to the effect control board 120 will be described later with reference to FIG.

  In step S800, the main CPU 110a restores the information saved in step S100 to the register of the main CPU 110a.

(Input control processing of main control board)
The input control process of the main control board 110 will be described using FIG.

In step S210, the main CPU 110a performs a general winning opening detection switch input process.
In this general winning opening detection switch input process, it is determined whether or not a detection signal is input from the general winning opening detection switch 12a. If there is no input of a detection signal from the general winning opening detection switch 12a, the process proceeds to the next step.

  When a detection signal is input from the general winning opening detection switch 12a, predetermined data is added to and updated in the winning ball counter for the general winning opening, and then the process proceeds to the next step.

In step S220, the main CPU 110a performs a special winning opening detection switch input process.
In this special winning opening detection switch input process, it is determined whether or not a detection signal is input from the first large winning opening detection switch 16a or the second large winning opening detection switch 17a. If no detection signal is input from the first big prize opening detection switch 16a or the second big prize opening detection switch 17a, the process proceeds to the next step.

  When a detection signal is input from the first big prize opening detection switch 16a or the second big prize opening detection switch 17a, predetermined data is added to the prize winning ball counter for the big prize opening and updated. After updating by adding 1 to the large winning opening number of balls (C) storage area for counting the game balls won in the large winning opening 16 or the second large winning opening 17, the process proceeds to the next step.

In step S230, the main CPU 110a performs a first start port detection switch input process.
In the first start port detection switch input process, it is determined whether or not a detection signal is input from the first start port detection switch 14a. If no detection signal is input from the first start port detection switch 14a, the process proceeds to the next step.

  When a detection signal is input from the first start port detection switch 14a, first, predetermined data is added to the prize ball counter for the first start port. Then, a first start port winning designation command is generated, and the generated first start port winning specifying command is set in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c.

  Next, if the data set in the first special symbol hold count (U1) storage area is less than 4, 1 is added to the first special symbol hold count (U1) storage area, and the special symbol determination random value , Jackpot symbol random number value, small hit symbol random number value, reach determination random number value, first variation random value and second variation random value, the first random symbol value is obtained as the first random symbol value After storing the data in a predetermined storage unit (0th storage unit to 4th storage unit) in the storage area, the process proceeds to the next step.

In step S240, the main CPU 110a performs a second start port detection switch input process.
In the second start port detection switch input process, it is determined whether or not a detection signal is input from the second start port detection switch 15a. If there is no detection signal input from the second start port detection switch 15a, the process proceeds to the next step.

  When a detection signal is input from the second start port detection switch 15a, first, predetermined data is added to the prize ball counter for the second start port. Then, a second start opening prize designation command is generated, and the generated second start opening prize designation command is set in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c.

  Next, if the data set in the second special symbol hold count (U2) storage area is less than 4, 1 is added to the second special symbol hold count (U2) storage area, and the special symbol determination random number value , A jackpot symbol random number value, a small bonus symbol random number value, a reach determination random number value, a first variation random number value and a second variation random value, and obtain the various random number values as a second special symbol random value After storing the data in a predetermined storage unit (0th storage unit to 4th storage unit) in the storage area, the process proceeds to the next step.

In step S250, the main CPU 110a performs gate detection switch input processing.
In this gate detection switch input process, it is determined whether or not a detection signal is input from the gate detection switch 13a. If no detection signal is input from the gate detection switch 13a, the input control process is terminated.

  When a detection signal is input from the gate detection switch 13a, a gate passage designation command is generated, and the generated gate passage designation command is set in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c.

  Next, if the data set in the normal symbol holding number (G) storage area is less than 4, add 1 to the normal symbol holding number (G) storage area to obtain a normal symbol determination random number value. Then, after storing the acquired normal symbol determination random number value in a predetermined storage unit (the 0th storage unit to the fourth storage unit) in the normal symbol holding storage area, the input control process is terminated.

(Special figure special electric control processing of main control board)
With reference to FIG. 11, the special figure special power control process of the main control board 110 will be described.

  First, in step S301, the value of the special figure special electricity processing data is loaded, the branch address is referred to from the special figure special electric treatment data loaded in step S302, and if the special figure special electric treatment data = 0, the special symbol memory determination process (step The process proceeds to S310), and if the special symbol special power processing data = 1, the process proceeds to the special symbol variation processing (step S320), and if the special symbol special power processing data = 2, the special symbol stop processing (step S330) If the special figure special electric processing data = 3, the process moves to the jackpot game processing (step S340), and if the special figure special electric processing data = 4, the process moves to the big hit game end process (step S350). If special electric processing data = 5, the processing is shifted to the small hit game processing (step S360).

  This “special drawing special electricity processing data” is set as necessary in each subroutine of the special figure special electricity control processing as will be described later, so that the subroutine necessary for the game is appropriately processed. .

  In the special symbol memory determination process in step S310, the main CPU 110a performs a jackpot determination process, a special symbol determination process for determining a special symbol to be stopped and displayed, a variation time determination process for determining a variation time of the special symbol, and the like. Here, the specific content of the special symbol memory determination process will be described with reference to FIG.

(Special symbol memory judgment processing of the main control board)
FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a special symbol memory determination process of the main control board 110.

  First, in step S310-1, the main CPU 110a determines whether or not a special symbol is being variably displayed. If the special symbol variation display is in progress (special symbol time counter ≠ 0), the special symbol memory determination process is terminated, and if the special symbol variation display is not in progress (special symbol time counter = 0), step The process proceeds to S310-2.

  If the special symbol variation display is not in progress, in step S310-2, the main CPU 110a determines whether or not the value stored in the second special symbol hold count (U2) storage area is 1 or more.

  When the main CPU 110a determines that the value stored in the second special symbol hold count (U2) storage area is 1 or more, the main CPU 110a proceeds to step S310-3, and the second special symbol hold count (U2). When it is determined that the value stored in the storage area is not 1 or more, the process proceeds to step S310-4.

  When the value stored in the second special symbol hold count (U2) storage area is 1 or more, in step S310-3, the main CPU 110a stores the value in the second special symbol hold count (U2) storage area. 1 is subtracted from the current value, and the process proceeds to step S310-6.

  On the other hand, if the value stored in the second special symbol hold count (U2) storage area is not 1 or more, the main CPU 110a stores the value in the first special symbol hold count (U1) storage area in step S310-4. It is determined whether or not the value being set is 1 or more.

  When the main CPU 110a determines that the value stored in the first special symbol hold count (U1) storage area is 1 or more, the main CPU 110a proceeds to step S310-5, and the first special symbol hold count (U1). When it is determined that the value stored in the storage area is not 1 or more, the process proceeds to step S319-1.

  If the value stored in the first special symbol hold count (U1) storage area is 1 or more, in step S310-5, the main CPU 110a stores the value in the first special symbol hold count (U1) storage area. 1 is subtracted from the current value, and the process proceeds to step S310-6.

  In step S310-6, the main CPU 110a shifts the data stored in the special symbol reserved number storage area corresponding to the special symbol reserved number (U) storage area subtracted in steps S310-2 to S310-5. I do.

  Specifically, each data stored in the first storage unit to the fourth storage unit in the first special symbol storage area or the second special symbol storage area is shifted to the previous storage unit. Here, the data stored in the first storage unit is shifted to the determination storage area (the 0th storage unit). At this time, the data stored in the first storage unit is written in the determination storage area (0th storage unit), and the data already written in the determination storage area (0th storage unit) is overwritten. It will be erased from the special symbol holding storage area. As a result, the special symbol determination random number value, the big hit symbol random number value, the small hit symbol random number value, the reach determination random number value, the first variation random number value, and the second variation random number value used in the previous game are deleted. Is done.

  In this embodiment, in steps S310-2 to S310-6, the second special symbol storage area is shifted with priority over the first special symbol recording area. Thus, the first special symbol storage area or the second special symbol storage area may be shifted, or the first special symbol storage area may be shifted with priority over the second special symbol storage area. .

Next, in step S311, the main CPU 110a performs jackpot determination processing.
Specifically, referring to the jackpot determination table, the special symbol determination random number value stored in the determination storage area (the 0th storage unit) of the special symbol hold storage area is a random value corresponding to “big hit”. Whether or not it is a random value corresponding to “small hit”.

  At this time, if the special symbol reservation storage area is the first special symbol storage area, the special symbol reservation storage area is referred to by referring to the jackpot determination table for the first special symbol display device shown in FIG. Is the second special symbol storage area, the jackpot determination process is performed with reference to the jackpot determination table for the second special symbol display device shown in FIG.

Next, in step S312, the main CPU 110a performs a special symbol determination process for determining the type of special symbol to be stopped and displayed.
In this special symbol determination process, when it is determined as “big hit” in the jackpot determination process (step S311), the first special symbol random value storage area is referred to with reference to the symbol determination table shown in FIG. The jackpot symbol (special symbol 1 to special symbol 6) is determined based on the random number value for the jackpot symbol stored in the 0th storage unit.

  In addition, when it is determined as “small hit” in the jackpot determination process (step S311), the 0th memory of the first special symbol random number storage area is referred to with reference to the symbol determination table shown in FIG. The small hit symbol (special symbol A, special symbol B) is determined based on the random number value for the small bonus symbol stored in the section.

If it is determined that the game is determined to be “lost” in the jackpot determination process (step S311), the lost symbol (special symbol 0) is determined with reference to the symbol determination table shown in FIG.
Then, stop symbol data corresponding to the determined special symbol is stored in the stop symbol data storage area.

Next, in step S313, the main CPU 110a performs a variation pattern determination process.
In this variation pattern determination process, processing such as determining a variation pattern of a special symbol is performed with reference to the variation pattern determination table. Thereafter, the variation time of the special symbol corresponding to the determined variation pattern of the special symbol is determined. Then, a process of setting a counter corresponding to the determined variation time of the special symbol in the special symbol time counter is performed.

  In step S314, the main CPU 110a confirms the gaming state at the start of variation, and sets a gaming state designation command corresponding to the current gaming state in the effect transmission data storage area.

  In step S315, the main CPU 110a sets, in a predetermined processing area, variation display data for causing the first special symbol display device 20 or the second special symbol display device 21 to perform special symbol variation display (LED blinking). . As a result, when the variable display data is set in the predetermined processing area, the LED lighting / extinguishing data is appropriately created in step S600, and the created data is output in step S700. Variation display of the special symbol display device 20 or the second special symbol display device 21 is performed.

  In step S316, the main CPU 110a sets the demonstration determination flag to 00H and clears the demonstration determination flag.

  In step S317, the main CPU 110a sets the special symbol special processing data = 1, shifts the processing to the special symbol variation processing, and ends the special symbol memory determination processing.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S310-4 that the value stored in the first special symbol hold count (U1) storage area is not 1 or more, in step S319-1, the main CPU 110a sets the demo determination flag to 01H. It is determined whether or not is set. If 01H is set in the demo determination flag, the special symbol memory determination process is terminated. If 01H is not set in the demo determination flag, the process proceeds to step S319-2.

  In step S319-2, the main CPU 110a sets 01H to the demo determination flag so that the demo designation command is not set many times in step S319-3 described later.

  In step S319-3, the main CPU 110a sets a demonstration designation command in the effect transmission data storage area, and ends the special symbol memory determination process.

The description of the special figure special electric control process shown in FIG. 11 will be returned.
In the special symbol variation process of step S320, the main CPU 110a performs a process of determining whether or not the special symbol variation time has elapsed.

  Specifically, it is determined whether or not the special symbol variation time determined in step S314 has elapsed (special symbol time counter = 0), and if it is determined that the special symbol variation time has not elapsed. The special symbol variation process is terminated while the special symbol special electricity processing data = 1 is held. Note that the special symbol variation time counter set in step S314 is subtracted in step S110.

  If it is determined that the variation time of the special symbol has elapsed, the special symbol determined in step S313 is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display device 20 or the second special symbol display device 21. Thereby, the special symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display device 20 or the second special symbol display device 21, and the player is notified of the jackpot determination result.

Also, when the number of time reduction (J)> 0, 1 is subtracted from the time reduction (J) counter and updated. When the number of time reduction (J) = 0, the time reduction game flag is cleared and the number of high probability games (X )> 0 is updated by subtracting 1 from the high probability game number (X) counter, and if the high probability game number (X) = 0, the high probability game flag is cleared.
Finally, the special symbol special power processing data = 1 is set to the special symbol special power processing data = 2, preparation is made to move to a special symbol stop processing subroutine, and the special symbol variation processing is terminated.

  In the special symbol stop process in step S330, the main CPU 110a performs a process of determining whether the special symbol that is stopped and displayed is a “big hit symbol”, a “small bonus symbol”, or a “losing symbol”. Do.

  If it is determined that the game is a jackpot symbol, the data stored in the gaming state storage area is referred to and data (00H to 03H) indicating the current gaming state is set in the gaming state buffer. Thereafter, the data (high probability game flag and short time game flag), high probability game number (X) counter, and short time number (J) counter stored in the high probability game flag storage area and the short time game flag storage area are cleared. . Further, the special figure special power processing data = 2 is set to the special figure special electric processing data = 3, preparation is made to move to the jackpot game processing subroutine, and the special symbol stop processing is ended.

  In addition, when it is determined that the small winning symbol, the data stored in the game state storage area is not cleared, and the special figure special electric processing data = 2 to the special figure special electric treatment data = 5 is set. The special symbol stop process is completed by making preparations for transferring to a winning game process subroutine.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the symbol is a lost symbol, the special symbol special electric processing data = 2 is set to special special electric symbol processing data = 0, and the special symbol memory determination processing subroutine is prepared for the special symbol stop processing. finish.

In the jackpot game process of step S340, the main CPU 110a determines which jackpot of the long hit or short hit is executed, and performs a process of controlling the determined jackpot.
Specifically, the jackpot release mode is determined based on the type of jackpot symbol (stop symbol data) determined in step S313.

  Next, in order to execute the determined jackpot opening mode, an opening time corresponding to the type of jackpot is set in the special game timer counter, and the first big winning opening opening / closing solenoid 16c (or the second big winning opening opening / closing solenoid) is set. 17c) is output to open the first big prize opening opening / closing door 16b (or the second big prize opening movable piece 17b). At this time, 1 is added to the round game count (R) storage area.

  When a specified number of game balls enter during the opening or when the opening time of the big prize opening has elapsed (the number of the big prize opening (C) = 9 or the special game timer counter = 0), the first The drive data output of the special prize opening / closing solenoid 16c (or the second big prize opening / closing solenoid 17c) is stopped, and the first big prize opening opening / closing door 16b (or the second big prize opening movable piece 17b) is closed. Thereby, one round game is completed. This round game control is repeated 15 times.

  When the 15 round games are completed (round game count (R) = 15), the data stored in the round game count (R) storage area and the number of winning prize entrance (C) storage areas are cleared, The special figure special electric processing data = 3 is set to the special figure special electric treatment data = 4, preparation is made to move to the big hit game end processing subroutine, and the big hit game processing is ended.

  In the jackpot game ending process in step S350, the main CPU 110a determines the probability game state of either the high probability game state or the low probability game state, and changes the game state of either the short-time game state or the non-time-short game state. Perform the decision process.

Specifically, based on the type of jackpot symbol (stop symbol data) determined in step S313, the setting of the high probability game flag, the setting of the high probability game number (X), the setting of the short-time game flag, the short-time number of times Setting of (J) is performed.
After that, the special symbol special power processing data = 4 is set to the special symbol special power processing data = 0, preparation is made to move to a special symbol memory determination processing subroutine, and the jackpot game end processing is terminated.

  In the small hit game processing in step S360, the main CPU 110a determines the small hit release mode based on the type of small hit symbol (stop symbol data) determined in step S313.

  Next, in order to execute the determined small hit opening mode, the small hit opening time is set in the special game timer counter, and the driving data of the second big winning opening / closing solenoid 17c is output to output the second big winning prize. The mouth movable piece 17b is opened. At this time, 1 is added to the number-of-releases (K) storage area.

  When the small winning opening time elapses (special game timer counter = 0), the output of the drive data of the second big prize opening / closing solenoid 17c is stopped and the second big prize opening movable piece 17b is closed. The opening / closing control of the second big winning opening movable piece 17b is repeated 15 times.

  Then, the opening / closing control of the second grand prize opening movable piece 17b is performed 15 times, or a predetermined number of game balls enter the second big prize opening 17 (the number of times of opening (K) = 15 or the grand prize opening entrance) Number (C) = 9), in order to end the small hit game, the output of the drive data of the second large winning opening / closing solenoid 17c is stopped, the number of times of opening (K) storage area and the number of winning winning holes (C) Clear the data stored in the storage area, set special figure special electricity processing data = 5 to special figure special electricity treatment data = 0, and prepare to move to a special symbol memory judgment processing subroutine. The winning game process is terminated.

(Command explanation)
The types of commands transmitted from the main control board 110, which are not described in the flowchart of the main control board 110 to the effect control board 120, will be described with reference to FIG.

  The command transmitted from the main control board 110 to the production control board 120 is composed of 1-byte data, and 1-byte MODE information for identifying the control command classification and the control command to be executed. And 1-byte DATA information indicating the contents of.

  The “designation designating command” indicates the type of the special symbol that is stopped and displayed, “MODE” is set as “E0H”, and DATA information is set according to the type of the special symbol. Since the special symbol type determines the jackpot type and the high probability gaming state as a result, it can be said that the effect symbol designation command indicates the jackpot type and the gaming state.

  In the effect symbol designation command, when various special symbols are determined and the variation display of the special symbol is started, an effect symbol designation command corresponding to the determined special symbol is transmitted to the effect control board 120.

  Specifically, when various special symbols are determined in step S312, and when the variation display of the special symbols is started in step S315, the effect symbol designation command corresponding to the determined special symbol is the effect of the main RAM 110c. Set in the transmission data storage area. Thereafter, the effect designating command set in the effect transmission data storage area in step S700 is immediately transmitted to the effect control board 120.

  The “first special symbol memory designation command” indicates the number of reserved memories stored in the first special symbol reservation number (U1) storage area, “MODE” is set to “E1H”, and the number of reserved memories DATA information is set according to the above.

  This first special symbol memory designation command is effect-controlled by the first special symbol memory designation command corresponding to the number of reserved memories when the number of reserved memories stored in the first special symbol reservation number (U1) storage area is switched. It is transmitted to the substrate 120.

  Specifically, when the value stored in the first special symbol hold count (U1) storage area in step S230 or step S311 increases or decreases, the first special symbol store corresponding to the increased or decreased hold storage count. The designation command is set in the transmission data storage area for presentation in the main RAM 110c. Thereafter, the first special symbol memory designation command set in the production transmission data storage area in step S700 is immediately transmitted to the production control board 120.

  The “second special symbol memory designation command” indicates the number of reserved memories stored in the second special symbol reservation number (U2) storage area, “MODE” is set to “E2H”, and the number of reserved memories DATA information is set according to the above.

  This second special symbol memory designation command is directed by the second special symbol memory designation command corresponding to the number of reserved memories when the number of reserved memories stored in the second special symbol reservation number (U2) storage area is switched. It is transmitted to the substrate 120.

Specifically, when the value stored in the second special symbol hold count (U2) storage area in step S240 or step S311 increases or decreases, the second special symbol store corresponding to the increased or decreased hold memory count. The designation command is set in the transmission data storage area for presentation in the main RAM 110c. Thereafter, the second special symbol memory designation command set in the production transmission data storage area in step S700 is immediately transmitted to the production control board 120.
In the present embodiment, the “first special symbol memory designation command” and the “second special symbol memory designation command” are collectively referred to as “special symbol memory designation command”.

  The “design determination command” indicates that the special symbol is stopped and displayed, “MODE” is set to “E3H”, and “DATA” is set to “00H”.

  This symbol confirmation command is transmitted to the effect control board 120 when the special symbol is stopped and displayed. Specifically, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display device 20 or the second special symbol display device 21 in step S320, the symbol confirmation command is set in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c. The Thereafter, the symbol confirmation command set in the effect transmission data storage area in step S700 is immediately transmitted to the effect control board 120.

  The “power-on designation command” indicates that the gaming machine 1 is powered on, “MODE” is set to “E4H”, and “DATA” is set to “00H”.

  This power-on specification command is transmitted to the effect control board 120 when the gaming machine 1 is powered on. Specifically, when the gaming machine is turned on in step S10, a power-on designation command is set in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c. Then, immediately after the power-on designation command set in the production transmission data storage area in step S700 is transmitted to the production control board 120.

  The “RAM clear designation command” indicates that the information stored in the main RAM 110c has been cleared, “MODE” is set to “E4H”, and “DATA” is set to “01H”.

  Here, a RAM clear button (not shown) is provided on the back side of the gaming machine 1, and when the gaming machine 1 is turned on while pressing the RAM clear button, the information stored in the main RAM 110c in step S10 is stored. Cleared.

  The RAM clear designation command is transmitted to the effect control board 120 when the gaming machine 1 is turned on while pressing the RAM clear button. Specifically, when the gaming machine is turned on while pressing the RAM clear button in step S10, a RAM clear designation command is set in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c. Thereafter, the RAM clear designation command set in the effect transmission data storage area in step S700 is immediately transmitted to the effect control board 120.

  The “demonstration designation command” indicates that the first special symbol display device 20 or the second special symbol display device 21 is not operating, “MODE” is set to “E5H”, and “DATA” is set to “ 00H ".

  This demonstration designation command is transmitted to the effect control board 120 when the special symbol display device 20 or the second special symbol display device 21 does not hold the special symbol. Specifically, in step S319-3, one or more data is not set in any storage area of the first special symbol hold count (U1) storage area and the second special symbol hold count (U2) storage area. Sometimes, a demonstration designation command is set in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c. Thereafter, the demonstration designation command set in the production transmission data storage area in step S700 is immediately transmitted to the production control board 120.

  The “first special symbol variation pattern designation command” indicates the variation time (variation mode) of the special symbol in the first special symbol display device 20, “MODE” is set to “E6H”, and various variations DATA information is set according to the pattern.

  The first special symbol variation pattern designation command is a first special symbol variation pattern designation command corresponding to the variation pattern of the special symbol determined when the special symbol variation display of the first special symbol display device 20 is started. Is transmitted to the effect control board 120.

  Specifically, when the variation pattern of the special symbol is determined in step S313 and when the variation display of the special symbol is started in step S315, the first special symbol corresponding to the determined variation pattern of the special symbol is used. The variation pattern designation command is set in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c. Thereafter, the first special symbol variation pattern designation command set in the production transmission data storage area in step S700 is immediately transmitted to the production control board 120.

  The “variable pattern designation command for the second special symbol” indicates the variation time (variation mode) of the special symbol in the second special symbol display device 21, and “MODE” is set to “E7H”, and various variations DATA information is set according to the pattern.

  The second special symbol variation pattern designation command is a second special symbol variation pattern designation command corresponding to the variation pattern of the special symbol determined when the special symbol variation display of the second special symbol display device 21 is started. Is transmitted to the effect control board 120.

Specifically, when the variation pattern of the special symbol is determined in step S313 and when the variation display of the special symbol is started in step S315, the second special symbol corresponding to the determined variation pattern of the special symbol is started. The variation pattern designation command is set in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c. Thereafter, the second special symbol variation pattern designation command set in the production transmission data storage area in step S700 is immediately transmitted to the production control board 120.
In the present embodiment, the “first special symbol variation pattern designation command” and the “second special symbol variation pattern designation command” are collectively referred to as a “variation pattern designation command”.

  The “Big Winner Opening Specification Command” indicates the number of rounds for jackpots according to the types of jackpots, “MODE” is set as “EAH”, and DATA information is set according to the number of rounds for jackpots Has been.

  With regard to the special winning opening opening designation command, when the big hit round is started, the big winning opening opening designation command corresponding to the started round number is transmitted to the effect control board 120. Specifically, when the first big prize opening opening / closing door 16b (or the second big prize opening movable piece 17b) is opened in step S340, a big prize opening opening designation command corresponding to the number of rounds to be opened is issued. It is set in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c. Thereafter, in step S700, the prize winning opening release command set in the effect transmission data storage area is immediately transmitted to the effect control board 120.

  The “opening designation command” indicates that various jackpots start, “MODE” is set as “EBH”, and DATA information is set according to the jackpot type.

  As for the opening designation command, when various jackpots start, an opening designation command corresponding to the type of jackpot is transmitted to the effect control board 120. Specifically, at the start of the jackpot game processing in step S340, an opening designation command corresponding to the jackpot type is set in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c. After that, the opening designation command set in the production transmission data storage area in step S700 is immediately transmitted to the production control board 120.

  The “ending designation command” indicates that various jackpots have ended, “MODE” is set as “ECH”, and DATA information is set according to the jackpot type.

  As for this ending designation command, when various jackpots are finished, an ending designation command corresponding to the jackpot type is transmitted to the effect control board 120. Specifically, at the start of the jackpot game end process in step S350, an ending designation command corresponding to the jackpot type is set in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c. Thereafter, the ending designation command set in the effect transmission data storage area in step S700 is immediately transmitted to the effect control board 120.

  The “gaming state designation command” indicates whether it is a short-time gaming state or a non-short-time gaming state, and “MODE” is set to “EEH”, and if it is a non-short-time gaming state, “DATA” is “ “00H” is set, and “DATA” is set to “01H” in the time saving gaming state.

  As for the gaming state designation command, a gaming state designation command corresponding to the gaming state is transmitted to the effect control board 120 at the start of the special symbol variation, at the end of the special symbol variation, at the start of the jackpot game, and at the end of the jackpot game. The Specifically, when the special symbol variation display is started in the step S315, the special symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display device 20 or the second special symbol display device 21 in the step S320. When the high-probability game flag, the high-probability game count, the short-time game flag, and the short-time game count (J) are cleared in S320, the high-probability game flag, the high-probability game count, the short-time game flag, and the short-time game count (J) are cleared. When the setting is performed, a game state designation command corresponding to the current game state is set in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c. Thereafter, the gaming state designation command set in the production transmission data storage area in step S700 is immediately transmitted to the production control board 120.

  Next, details of various tables stored in the sub ROM 120b will be described.

(Variation production pattern determination table)
FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a normal variation effect pattern determination table for determining the variation mode of the effect symbol 36 in the effect display device 31 and the like.

  When the sub CPU 120 a receives the special symbol variation pattern designation command from the main control board 110, the sub CPU 120 a refers to the variation effect pattern determination table and determines the variation effect pattern based on the effect random number value 1. Here, even if the same variation pattern designation command is used, different variation production patterns can be determined on the basis of the random number value 1 for production. Therefore, the number of variation pattern designation commands is reduced and the main control board is reduced. The storage capacity at 110 is reduced.

  The “variation effect pattern” is an effect mode based on the change pattern number, and effect means (effect display device 31, sound output device 32, effect drive device 33, etc.) performed during the variable display of the special symbol. An effect mode in the effect lighting device 34). For example, in the effect display device 31, the type of reach, the display mode of the background to be displayed, the display mode of the character, and the change mode of the effect symbol 36 are determined by the change effect pattern.

  In addition, “reach” in the present embodiment refers to a state in which a part of the combination of the effect symbols 36 informing the transition to the special game is stopped and the other effect symbols 36 are performing the variable display. Say. For example, when the combination of the three-digit effect symbol 36 of “777” is set as the combination of the effect symbols 36 for informing the transition to the jackpot game, the two effect symbols 36 are stopped and displayed at “7”. The state where the remaining effect symbols 36 are performing variable display.

  When the sub CPU 120a determines the variation effect pattern, the sub CPU 120a transmits an effect pattern designation command corresponding to the determined variation effect pattern to the host CPU 150a of the image control board 150 and the lamp control board 140.

  Specifically, the production pattern designation command is composed of 2 bytes of data for 1 command, 1 byte of MODE data for identifying the control command classification, and 1 byte indicating the contents of the control command to be executed. Data.

  Further, as the effect pattern designation command corresponding to the change effect pattern, “MODE” is set to “A1H” in the case of the change effect pattern based on the change pattern of the special symbol in the first special symbol display device 20, and the second special When the variation effect pattern is based on the variation pattern of the special symbol in the symbol display device 21, “MODE” is set as “B1H”, and “DATA” is set according to the identification number of the variation effect pattern.

  Further, although illustration is omitted, in addition to the effect pattern designation command corresponding to the variable effect pattern, the MODE setting value is changed, and an “effect pattern designation command corresponding to the demo effect pattern (MODE = 01H)” is set. “, An effect pattern designation command corresponding to the hit start effect pattern (MODE = 02H)”, “an effect pattern designation command corresponding to the jackpot effect pattern (MODE = 03H)”, “an effect pattern designation corresponding to the hit end effect pattern” Various effect pattern designation commands such as “command (MODE = 04H)” are transmitted to the image control board 150.

  Next, processing executed by the sub CPU 120a in the effect control board 120 will be described.

(Production control board main processing)
The main process of the effect control board 120 will be described with reference to FIG.
In step S1000, the sub CPU 120a performs an initialization process. In this process, the sub CPU 120a reads the main processing program from the sub ROM 120b and initializes and sets a flag stored in the sub RAM 120c in response to power-on. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S1100.

  In step S1100, the sub CPU 120a performs an effect random number update process. In this process, the sub CPU 120a performs a process of updating random numbers (effect random number value, effect design determining random value, effect mode determining random value, etc.) stored in the sub RAM 120c. Thereafter, the process of step S1100 is repeated until a predetermined interrupt process is performed.

(Timer interrupt processing of production control board)
The timer interrupt process of the effect control board 120 will be described using FIG.
Although not shown in the figure, a clock pulse is generated every predetermined period (2 milliseconds) by a reset clock pulse generation circuit provided on the effect control board 120, a timer interrupt processing program is read, and the timer of the effect control board is read. Interrupt processing is executed.

  First, in step S1400, the sub CPU 120a saves the information stored in the register of the sub CPU 120a to the stack area.

  In step S1500, the sub CPU 120a updates various timer counters used in the effect control board 120, or transmits various commands to the lamp control board 140 and the image control board 150 when a predetermined time elapses. I do. In this timer update process, various time-related processes are performed based on a main body management time acquired by the image control board 150 described later.

  In step S1600, the sub CPU 120a performs command analysis processing. In this process, the sub CPU 120a performs a process of analyzing a command stored in the reception buffer of the sub RAM 120c. Specific description of the command analysis processing will be described later with reference to FIGS. 17 and 18. When the effect control board 120 receives a command transmitted from the main control board 110, a command reception interrupt process of the effect control board 120 (not shown) occurs, and the received command is stored in the reception buffer. Thereafter, the received command is analyzed in step S1600.

  In step S1700, the sub CPU 120a checks the signal of the effect button detection switch 35a, and performs effect input control processing related to the effect button 35.

  In step S1800, the sub CPU 120a performs data output processing for transmitting various commands and data set in the transmission buffer of the sub RAM 120c to the lamp control board 140 and the image control board 150.

  In step S1900, the sub CPU 120a restores the information saved in step S1400 to the register of the sub CPU 120a.

(Command analysis processing of production control board)
The command analysis processing of the effect control board 120 will be described using FIG. 17 and FIG. The command analysis process 2 shown in FIG. 18 is performed following the command analysis process 1 shown in FIG.

In step S1601, the sub CPU 120a checks whether there is a command in the reception buffer, and checks whether the command has been received.
If there is no command in the reception buffer, the sub CPU 120a ends the command analysis process, and if there is a command in the reception buffer, the sub CPU 120a moves the process to step S1610.

In step S1610, the sub CPU 120a checks whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is a demo designation command.
If the command stored in the reception buffer is a demonstration designation command, the sub CPU 120a moves the process to step S1611, and if not the demonstration designation command, moves the process to step S1620.

In step S1611, the sub CPU 120a performs a demo effect pattern determination process for determining a demo effect pattern.
Specifically, the demonstration effect pattern is determined, the determined demonstration effect pattern is set in the effect pattern storage area, and information on the determined demonstration effect pattern is transmitted to the image control board 150 and the lamp control board 140. An effect pattern designation command based on the demo effect pattern is set in the transmission buffer of the sub-RAM 120c.

  In step S1620, sub CPU 120a checks whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is a special symbol storage designation command.

  If the command stored in the reception buffer is a special symbol storage designation command, the sub CPU 120a moves the process to step S1621, and if it is not a special symbol storage designation command, moves the process to step S1630.

  In step S1621, the sub CPU 120a analyzes the special symbol storage designation command to determine the display number of special figure reservation images to be displayed on the effect display device 31, and the special CPU corresponding to the determined display number of special figure reservation images. A special symbol memory number determination process for transmitting a figure display number designation command to the image control board 150 and the lamp control board 140 is performed.

In step S1630, the sub CPU 120a checks whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is an effect designating command.
If the command stored in the reception buffer is an effect designating command, the sub CPU 120a moves the process to step S1631, and moves to step S1640 if it is not an effect designating command.

In step S1631, the sub CPU 120a performs an effect symbol determination process for determining an effect symbol 36 to be stopped and displayed on the effect display device 31 based on the content of the received effect symbol designation command.
Specifically, the effect designating command is analyzed, the effect symbol data constituting the combination of the effect symbols 36 is determined according to the presence / absence of jackpot and the type of jackpot, and the determined effect symbol data is stored in the effect symbol storage area In addition, in order to transmit the effect symbol data to the image control board 150 and the lamp control board 140, a stop symbol designation command indicating the effect symbol data is set in the transmission buffer of the sub RAM 120c.

  In step S1632, the sub CPU 120a acquires one random number value from the effect mode determination random value updated in step S1100, and based on the acquired effect mode determination random value and the received effect designating command, An effect mode determination process for determining one effect mode from a plurality of effect modes (for example, a normal effect mode and a chance effect mode) is performed. Further, the determined effect mode is set in the effect mode storage area.

In step S1640, the sub CPU 120a checks whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is a variation pattern designation command.
If the command stored in the reception buffer is a variation pattern designation command, the sub CPU 120a moves the process to step S1641 and moves the process to step S1650 if it is not the variation pattern designation command.

  In step S1641, the sub CPU 120a acquires one random number value from the effect random number value updated in step S1100, and is set in the acquired effect random number value, the received variation pattern designation command, and effect mode storage area. On the basis of the effect mode, the change effect pattern determination table for determining the change effect pattern and the like is performed with reference to the change effect pattern determination table.

  Specifically, in the case of the normal effect mode, one variation effect pattern is determined based on the acquired random number for effect, the determined variation effect pattern is set in the effect pattern storage area, and the determined variation effect pattern is determined. Is transmitted to the image control board 150 and the lamp control board 140, data based on the determined variation effect pattern is set in the transmission buffer of the sub-RAM 120c.

  Thereafter, the effect display device 31, the audio output device 32, the effect drive device 33, and the effect illumination device 34 are controlled based on the effect pattern. Note that the variation mode of the effect symbol 36 is determined based on the variation effect pattern determined here.

In step S1650, the sub CPU 120a checks whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is a symbol determination command.
If the command stored in the reception buffer is a symbol confirmation command, the sub CPU 120a moves the process to step S1651, and moves to step S1660 if the command is not the symbol confirmation command.

  In step S1651, the sub CPU 120a performs an effect symbol stop process for setting a stop instruction command for stopping the effect symbol in the transmission buffer of the sub RAM 120c in order to stop the effect symbol 36.

In step S1660, the sub CPU 120a determines whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is a gaming state designation command.
If the command stored in the reception buffer is a gaming state designation command, the sub CPU 120a moves the process to step S1661, and moves to step S1670 if the command is not a gaming state designation command.

  In step S1661, the sub CPU 120a sets data indicating the gaming state based on the received gaming state designation command in the gaming state storage area in the sub RAM 120c.

In step S1670, the sub CPU 120a checks whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is an opening designation command.
If the command stored in the reception buffer is an opening designation command, the sub CPU 120a moves the process to step S1671. If not, the sub CPU 120a moves the process to step S1680.

In step S1671, the sub CPU 120a performs a hit start effect pattern determination process for determining a hit start effect pattern.
Specifically, the hit start effect pattern is determined based on the opening designation command, the determined hit start effect pattern is set in the effect pattern storage area, and information on the determined hit start effect pattern is stored in the image control board 150 and the lamp. In order to transmit to the control board 140, an effect pattern designation command based on the determined hit start effect pattern is set in the transmission buffer of the sub RAM 120c.

In step S1680, the sub CPU 120a checks whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is a special winning opening opening designation command.
If the command stored in the reception buffer is a big prize opening release designation command, the sub CPU 120a moves the process to step S1681, and if not, it moves the process to step S1690.

In step S1681, the sub CPU 120a performs a jackpot effect pattern determination process for determining a jackpot effect pattern.
Specifically, the jackpot effect pattern is determined based on the big prize opening opening designation command, the determined jackpot effect pattern is set in the effect pattern storage area, and information on the determined jackpot effect pattern is stored in the image control board 150 and the lamp. In order to transmit to the control board 140, an effect pattern designation command based on the determined jackpot effect pattern is set in the transmission buffer of the sub RAM 120c.

In step S1690, the sub CPU 120a checks whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is an ending designation command.
If the command stored in the reception buffer is an ending designation command, the sub CPU 120a moves the process to step S1691, and ends the command analysis process if it is not an ending designation command.

In step S1691, the sub CPU 120a performs a hit end effect pattern determination process for determining a hit end effect pattern.
Specifically, a hit end effect pattern is determined based on the ending designation command, the determined hit end effect pattern is set in the effect pattern storage area, and information on the determined hit end effect pattern is stored in the image control board 150 and the lamp. In order to transmit to the control board 140, an effect pattern designation command based on the determined hit end effect pattern is set in the transmission buffer of the sub-RAM 120c.
When this process ends, the command analysis process ends.

  Next, processing executed by the host CPU 150a in the image control board 150 will be described.

(Main processing of image control board)
The main process of the image control board 150 will be described with reference to FIG.
When power is supplied from the power supply board 170, a system reset occurs in the host CPU 150a, and the host CPU 150a performs the following main processing.

  In step S2010, the host CPU 150a performs an initialization process. In this processing, the host CPU 150a reads the main processing program from the control ROM 150c in response to power-on and instructs the initial setting of various modules of the host CPU 150a and the VDP 154.

  Here, the host CPU 150a outputs an initial value display list for instructing video signal creation or drawing initial value image data (such as a character image “powering on”) as an instruction for initial setting of the VDP 154. To do.

  Further, the host CPU 150a reads time information from the RTC 180 and stores it in the control RAM 150b as an initialization process. Note that the host CPU 150a also reads date information (year (Y), month (M), day (D)) from the RTC 180 together with time information only in this initialization process.

  Then, the host CPU 150a determines the date (year (Y), month (M) based on the date information read from the RTC 180 on the date of the “main body management time” (year (Y), month (M), day (D)). , Day (D)). The host CPU 150a also determines the time based on the time information read from the RTC 180 at the current frame time and the “main body management time” time (hour (h), minute (m), second (s)). ), Minutes (m), seconds (s)). In the following description, unless otherwise specified, the main body management time only handles time (hour (h), minute (m), second (s)).

Here, “main body management time” in the present embodiment refers to a time managed as the time of the gaming machine 1. The minimum update unit of the main body management time, that is, the unit update time is 1 s. Furthermore, the main body management time managed by the host CPU 150a of the image control board 150 is sent to the effect control board 120 and is also managed as the time of the gaming machine 1 by the sub CPU 120a. Information on the main body management time sent from the image control board 150 to the effect control board 120 may be transmitted at a predetermined timing, or may be transmitted every time the time is updated.
Hereinafter, the time of the current frame is referred to as “current frame time”. Further, the time of the frame before the current frame, in particular, the time of the immediately preceding frame is referred to as “time of the previous frame”.

  In step S2020, the host CPU 150a performs a drawing execution start process. In this process, in order to instruct the VDP 154 to execute drawing on the display list that has already been output, drawing execution start data is set in the drawing register.

  That is, at the start of power-on, execution of drawing on the initial value display list output at step S2010 is instructed, and at normal routine processing, execution of drawing on the display list output at S2050 described later is instructed. become.

  In step S2030, the host CPU 150a performs effect instruction command analysis control processing for analyzing the effect instruction command (command stored in the reception buffer of the control RAM) transmitted from the effect control board 120.

  When the image control board 150 receives a command transmitted from the effect control board 120, a command reception interrupt process of the image control board 150 (not shown) occurs, and the received command is stored in the reception buffer. Thereafter, the received command is analyzed in step S2030.

  That is, the effect instruction command is, for example, when there is a command in the reception buffer of the sub RAM 120c in the command analysis process of the effect control board 120, the command is analyzed by the sub CPU 120a, and the transmission of the sub RAM 120c is performed based on the analysis result. The predetermined command is set in the buffer and transmitted from the effect control board 120 to the image control board 150.

  The effect instruction command analysis process confirms whether or not an effect instruction command is stored in the reception buffer. If an effect instruction command is not stored in the reception buffer, the process proceeds directly to step S2040.

  If a production instruction command is stored in the reception buffer, a new production instruction command is read, and one or more animation groups to be executed are determined based on the read production instruction command. Determine the pattern. When the animation pattern is determined, the read effect instruction command is deleted from the transmission buffer.

  In step S2040, the host CPU 150a performs an animation control process. In this process, based on the “scene switching counter”, the “weight frame”, the “frame counter” updated in step S2210, which will be described later, and the animation pattern determined in step S2030, various animation scenes. Update the address of.

  In step S2050, the host CPU 150a displays the display information (sprite identification number, display position, etc.) of one frame of the animation scene at the updated address according to the priority order (drawing order) of the animation group to which the animation scene belongs. Generate a list. When the generation of the display list is completed, the host CPU 150a outputs the display list to the VDP 154.

  The display list output here is stored in the display list storage area of the VRAM 153 via an interface (hereinafter referred to as VDP_I / F) in the VDP 154.

In step S2060, the host CPU 150a determines whether or not the FB switching flag = 01.
Here, as will be described later with reference to FIG. 20, the FB switching flag is equal to the FB switching flag = if the previous display list has been drawn in the V blank interrupt every 1/60 seconds (about 16.6 ms). 01. That is, in step S2060, it is determined whether or not the previous drawing has been completed.

  If the FB switching flag = 01, the host CPU 150a moves the process to step S2070. If the FB switching flag = 00, the host CPU 150a waits until the FB switching flag = 01.

In step S2070, the host CPU 150a sets the FB switching flag = 00 (turns the FB switching flag off), and moves the process to step S2020.
Thereafter, the processing from step S2020 to step S2070 is repeated until a predetermined interrupt shown in FIG. 20 occurs.

(Image control board interrupt processing)
The interrupt process of the image control board 150 will be described with reference to FIG.

  In the interrupt processing of the image control board 150, a drawing end interrupt process performed by inputting a drawing end interrupt signal, a V blank interrupt process performed by inputting a V blank interrupt signal, and a command are received. And at least a command reception interrupt process performed.

  Note that the drawing end interrupt process and the V blank interrupt process are described with reference to FIG. 20, but the command reception interrupt process is as described in step S2030 and is not illustrated.

(Image control board drawing end interrupt processing)
FIG. 20A is a diagram illustrating a drawing end interrupt process of the image control board 150. FIG.

When drawing of a predetermined unit frame (one frame) is completed, the VDP 154 outputs a drawing end interrupt signal to the host CPU 150a via the VDP_I / F.
When the host CPU 150a receives a drawing end interrupt signal from the VDP 154, the host CPU 150a executes a drawing end interrupt process.

  In the drawing end interrupt process, the host CPU 150a sets the drawing end flag = 01 (turns on the drawing end flag), and ends the current drawing end interrupt process (step S2110). That is, the drawing end flag is turned on every time drawing ends.

(V blank interrupt processing for image control board)
FIG. 20B is a diagram illustrating a V blank interrupt process for the image control board 150.
The VDP 154 outputs a V blank interrupt signal (vertical synchronization signal) to the host CPU 150a via the VDP_I / F every 1/60 seconds (about 16.6 ms).
When the host CPU 150a receives a V blank interrupt signal from the VDP 154, the host CPU 150a executes a V blank interrupt process.

  In step S2210, the host CPU 150a performs processing for updating various counters such as “scene switching counter”, “wait frame”, and “frame counter”.

  In step S2220, the host CPU 150a determines whether or not the drawing end flag = 01. That is, it is determined whether or not drawing of a predetermined unit frame has been completed.

  If the drawing end flag = 01, the host CPU 150a moves the process to step S2230. If the drawing end flag = 01, the host CPU 150a ends the current V blank interrupt process. That is, even if the V blank interrupt signal is input, if the drawing is not completed, the processing after step S2230 is not performed.

  In step S2230, the host CPU 150a sets a drawing end flag = 00 (turns the drawing end flag off).

  In step S 2240, the host CPU 150 a gives an instruction to switch the “display frame buffer” and the “drawing frame buffer” to the memory controller of the VDP 154.

  In step S2250, the host CPU 150a sets the FB switching flag = 01 (turns on the FB switching flag), cancels the standby state in step S2060, and proceeds to step S2301.

  In addition, when an instruction to create a video signal is received from the host CPU 150a, the VDP 154 generates an RGB signal (analog signal) indicating the image data as a video signal from the image data (digital signal) stored in the display frame buffer of the VRAM 153. Then, the generated video signal (RGB signal) and a synchronizing signal (vertical synchronizing signal, horizontal synchronizing signal, etc.) for synchronizing with the effect display device 31 are output to the effect display device 31.

  Next, in step S2301, the host CPU 150a determines whether or not the RTC read flag (Fr) = 1. That is, it is determined whether it is the read timing of the RTC 180.

  If the RTC read flag (Fr) = 1 is not set, the host CPU 150a moves the process to step S2302, and if the RTC read flag (Fr) = 1, moves the process to step S2303.

  If the RTC read flag (Fr) = 1 is not set, the host CPU 150a sets “1” to the RTC read flag (Fr) in step S2302, and ends the current V blank interrupt processing.

  On the other hand, if the RTC read flag (Fr) = 1, the host CPU 150a performs time control processing in step S2303. In this time control process, the time information of the RTC 180 is read, and the process of setting the time of the current frame (current frame) is performed. Details of the time control process will be described later.

  Next, in step S2304, the host CPU 150a sets “0” to the RTC read flag (Fr) and ends the current V blank interrupt process.

(Time control processing of image control board)
Next, the time control process in the image control board 150 will be described. FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing time control processing in the image control board 150.

  In the time control process, first, in step S2310, the host CPU 150a substitutes the time of the current frame for the time of the previous frame. Note that at the time of the current frame immediately after the power is turned on, as described in the initialization process (step S2010) in the main process of the image control board 150, the RTC 180 read in this initialization process (step S2010). The time based on the time information is set.

  Next, in step S2321, the host CPU 150a reads the time information of the RTC 180. Specifically, the host CPU 150a reads the current time (h) information (8 bits) from the time (h) area of the time storage area of the RTC 180. Next, the host CPU 150a reads the current minute (m) information (8 bits) from the minute (m) area of the time storage area of the RTC 180. Further, the host CPU 150a reads the current second (s) information (8 bits) from the second (s) area of the time storage area of the RTC 180.

  Next, in step S2322, the host CPU 150a acquires the time from the time information read from the RTC 180, and sets the acquired time as the temporary time of the current frame. Specifically, the host CPU 150a acquires the time (h) (what time) from the time (h) information read from the RTC 180, and sets the acquired time (h) as the temporary time (h) of the current frame. To do. For example, if the information (h) read from the RTC 180 is “00011001”, the host CPU 150a calculates that it is 19:00, and sets the time (h) of the current frame as the provisional time as 19:00.

  Also, the host CPU 150a acquires the minute (m) from the minute (m) information read from the RTC 180, and sets the acquired minute (m) as the temporary time minute (m) of the current frame. For example, if the minute (m) information read from the RTC 180 is “010101001”, the host CPU 150a calculates 59 minutes and sets the current frame provisional time minute (m) as 59 minutes.

  Further, the host CPU 150a acquires the second (s) from the second (s) information read from the RTC 180, and sets the acquired second (s) as the second (s) of the temporary time of the current frame. For example, if the second (s) information read from the RTC 180 is “010101001”, the host CPU 150a calculates 59 seconds, and sets the second (s) of the temporary time of the current frame as 59 seconds.

  In step S2321 and step S2322, the host CPU 150a reads all the time information from the hour (h) area, minute (m) area, and second (s) area of the time storage area of the RTC 180, and then sets each time information. However, it is desirable to set the time corresponding to each time information as the temporary time of the current frame each time it is read.

  Next, in step S2341, the host CPU 150a determines whether or not the temporary time of the current frame is the same as the time of the previous frame. If the current frame temporary time and the previous frame time are the same, the host CPU 150a proceeds to step S2343, and if the current frame temporary time and the previous frame time are not the same, the host CPU 150a proceeds to step S2342.

  If the temporary time of the current frame and the time of the previous frame are not the same, the host CPU 150a determines in step S2342 whether or not the temporary time of the current frame is the same as the time of the previous frame + 1 second. If the temporary time of the current frame and the time of the previous frame + 1 second are the same, the host CPU 150a proceeds to step S2343, and if the temporary time of the current frame and the time of the previous frame + 1 seconds are not the same, the host CPU 150a proceeds to step S2344. Transition.

  If the temporary time of the current frame is the same as the time of the previous frame or the same as the time of the previous frame + 1 second, the host CPU 150a substitutes the temporary time of the current frame for the time of the current frame in step S2343. Then, the time control process is terminated.

  On the other hand, if the temporary time of the current frame is not the same as the time of the previous frame and the time of the previous frame + 1 second, the host CPU 150a substitutes the time of the previous frame for the time of the current frame in step S2344. Then, this time control process ends.

  Thereby, when the host CPU 150a can read the correct time information from the RTC 180, the host CPU 150a can set the time based on the read time information, and the information read from the RTC 180 is an incorrect value. Adopts the time of the previous frame, does not set the main body management time as an incorrect value, and can manage the time without causing a large time shift.

  FIG. 22 is a table showing the contents stored in the time storage area (register table) of the RTC 180. As described above, in the time storage area of the RTC 180, bits 0 to 7 are assigned to each of seconds (s), minutes (m), and hours (h).

Next, an outline of the time control process of the main body management time is shown in a schematic diagram, and supplementary explanation for facilitating understanding will be given. FIG. 23 is a schematic diagram illustrating an outline of the time control process of the main body management time.
As shown in FIG. 23, the time storage area of the RTC 180 is assigned 8 bits for hour (h) information, 8 bits for minute (m) information, and 8 bits for second (h) information.

First, the host CPU 150a secures the management time in the previous frame.
Next, the host CPU 150a reads the time (h) information from the RTC 180, calculates the time (hour (h)), and sets it to the time (h) of the current frame.

Next, the host CPU 150a reads the minute (m) information from the RTC 180, calculates the time (minute (m)), and sets it to the temporary time minute (m) of the current frame.
Next, the host CPU 150a reads the second (s) information from the RTC 180, calculates the time (second (s)), and sets it to the second (s) of the temporary time of the current frame.

  Then, the host CPU 150a compares the temporary time of the current frame with the time of the previous frame, and if the temporary time of the current frame is an incorrect time, for example, a time that is more than 2s later than the time of the previous frame, Set the time of the previous frame to the time of. On the other hand, if the temporary time of the current frame is compared with the time of the previous frame and is equal to the time of the previous frame, for example, the time of the current frame or +1 second, the host CPU 150a Set temporary time.

  As a result, for example, even if the time information read from the RTC 180 becomes incorrect time information due to noise or the like, the time may be incorrect by adopting the time of the previous frame, or the time may be greatly shifted. Can also be prevented.

(Example)
Hereinafter, examples of effects of the gaming machine 1 using the main body management time will be described. FIG. 24 is a timing chart showing the presentation mode of the gaming machine from when the gaming machine is turned on until when the gaming shop is closed.

  As shown in FIG. 24, the sub CPU 120a of the gaming machine 1 performs a special effect mode at a predetermined time. The sub CPU 120a performs the special effect mode once every hour. Accordingly, the sub CPU 120a performs the special effect mode 12 times from 9:30 when the gaming machine 1 is turned on to 22:00, which is the closing time of the game shop.

  Further, the sub CPU 120a has a music performance mode and a performance notification mode as special performance modes. The music performance mode is a mode in which a live video, a video video, a promotion video, etc. are displayed at a predetermined time regardless of the gaming state. The performance notification mode is a mode for notifying that the music performance mode starts. In this embodiment, the music performance mode is performed for 5 minutes (300 s) and the performance announcement mode is performed for 1 minute (60 s).

  In this way, by starting the effect such as the special performance mode or the music performance mode from a predetermined time, it is possible to perform an effect synchronized with the gaming machine whose main body management time is managed in the same manner. In other words, since the gaming machine 1 can accurately manage the main body management time as described above, the music performance mode can be set simultaneously with other gaming machines managed by the RTC (similarly, gaming machines whose main body management time is managed). It can be started and the playgrounds can be united and livened up like a live venue.

(Example of production display)
Next, an effect display example in the special effect mode will be described. FIG. 25 is a timing chart showing a symbol variation and an effect display example in the special effect mode.

  First, the case where the symbol variation starts during the normal game effect mode and the symbol variation ends during the performance announcement mode will be described. FIG. 25 (a) shows an effect display example when the symbol variation starts during the normal game effect mode and the symbol variation ends during the performance announcement mode.

  As shown in FIG. 25 (a), the host CPU 150a of the gaming machine 1 performs symbol variation display when symbol variation is started during the normal game effect mode. In the normal symbol variation display, the host CPU 150a displays, for example, a variation display of the effect symbol 36, an effect display screen for variation, and the like. And even if it becomes the start time of performance announcement mode during normal symbol variation, the host CPU 150a continues the effect display in the symbol variation until then.

  Further, when the start time of the performance announcement mode is reached, the host CPU 150a notifies the sub CPU 120a that the start time of the performance announcement mode has come. The sub CPU 120a changes the effect display after the next change to the effect display for the performance notification mode (special effect mode) by the start notification of the performance notification mode. Here, the effect display for the performance notification mode (special effect mode) is an effect by the change effect pattern determined by the change effect pattern determination table for the performance notification mode (special effect mode). Specifically, the variation effect pattern generated for the lower small screen area described below is selected. The variation effect pattern for the lower small screen region is, for example, a variation display image of only the effect symbol 36 by dot display.

Next, the host CPU 150a divides the display screen area into an upper large screen area and a lower small screen area when the symbol variation ends during the performance announcement mode and the next symbol variation starts. The host CPU 150a displays a variation image based on the variation effect pattern for the lower small screen region selected by the sub CPU 120a in the lower small screen region. In addition, the host CPU 150a displays a notification screen indicating that the music performance mode is about to start in the upper large screen area. For example, as shown in FIG. 25A, the notification screen displays the name of the music performed in the music performance mode, the countdown of the time until the music performance mode is started, and the like. Therefore, the performance announcement is displayed in divided areas.
In addition, the host CPU 150a calculates and displays the time for counting down on the notification screen based on the main body management time.

  Next, the host CPU 150a displays live video, video video, promotional video, etc. in the music performance mode in the upper large screen area when the symbol variation does not end during the performance announcement mode and the start time of the music performance mode is reached. . In addition, the host CPU 150a continuously displays the display screen showing the symbol variation in the lower small screen area only by the variation display of the effect symbol 36. Therefore, the music performance is displayed in divided areas.

  Further, when the start time of the music performance mode is reached, the host CPU 150a notifies the sub CPU 120a that the start time of the music performance mode has been reached. The sub CPU 120a changes the effect display after the next change to the effect display for the music performance mode (special effect mode) by the start notification of the music performance mode. Here, the effect display for the music performance mode is the same as the effect display in the performance notification mode. In this embodiment, the effect display for the music performance mode and the effect display for the performance announcement mode are the same, but the effect display for the music performance mode and the effect display of the performance announcement mode , May be different.

  Further, when the end time of the music performance mode, that is, the end time of the special effect mode is reached, the host CPU 150a notifies the sub CPU 120a that the end time of the special effect mode has been reached. The sub CPU 120a changes the effect display after the next change to the effect display for the normal game effect mode in response to the end notification of the special effect mode.

  Next, a case where the symbol variation starts during the normal game performance mode, continues through the performance notification mode, and continues to the music performance mode will be described. FIG. 25 (b) shows an effect display example in the case where the symbol variation starts during the normal game performance mode, and the symbol variation continues through the performance notification mode until the music performance mode.

  As shown in FIG. 25 (b), the host CPU 150a of the gaming machine 1 performs symbol variation display in the same manner as in FIG. 25 (a) when symbol variation is started during the normal game effect mode. . And even if it becomes the start time of performance announcement mode during normal symbol variation, the host CPU 150a continues the effect display in the symbol variation until then.

  Further, when the start time of the performance notification mode is reached, the host CPU 150a notifies the sub CPU 120a that the start time of the performance notification mode has been reached, as described above. The sub CPU 120a changes the effect display after the next change to the effect display for the performance notification mode (special effect mode) by the start notification of the performance notification mode. However, in this example, the next change is not started during the performance notification mode, and the music performance mode is entered.

  Next, when the symbol variation does not end during the performance announcement mode and the start time of the music performance mode is reached, the host CPU 150a divides the display screen area into the entire large screen area and the small window reduction screen (so-called Wipe screen) and area. The host CPU 150a displays the symbol variation continuously on the entire large screen area. In addition, the host CPU 150a displays live video, video video, promotional video, etc. in the music performance mode in the small window reduction screen area. Therefore, the music performance is displayed in a reduced size.

  Further, when the start time of the music performance mode is reached, the host CPU 150a notifies the sub CPU 120a that the start time of the music performance mode has been reached, as described above. The sub CPU 120a changes the effect display after the next change to the effect display for the music performance mode (special effect mode) by the start notification of the music performance mode.

  Next, when the symbol variation ends during the music performance mode and the next symbol variation starts, the host CPU 150a increases the display screen area from the division of the entire large screen area and the small window reduced screen area. Change to large screen area and lower small screen area. The host CPU 150a displays a display screen showing the next symbol variation in the lower small screen area. In addition, the host CPU 150a displays live video, video video, promotional video, etc. in the music performance mode in the upper large screen area. Therefore, the music performance is displayed in divided areas.

  Further, when the end time of the music performance mode, that is, the end time of the special effect mode is reached, the host CPU 150a notifies the sub CPU 120a that the end time of the special effect mode has been reached. The sub CPU 120a changes the effect display after the next change to the effect display for the normal game effect mode in response to the end notification of the special effect mode.

  Next, the symbol variation starts during the normal game production mode, continues through the performance announcement mode, and continues to the music performance mode. A case will be described in which there is an effect boundary during design variation. In FIG. 25 (c), the symbol variation starts during the normal game performance mode, and the symbol variation continues through the performance notification mode and continues to the music performance mode, but there is a boundary between performances during the performance notification mode. In this case, an effect display example is shown.

  As shown in FIG. 25 (c), when the host CPU 150a of the gaming machine 1 starts symbol variation during the normal game effect mode, it is the same as in FIGS. 25 (a) and 25 (b). , Symbol variation display is performed. And even if it becomes the start time of performance announcement mode during normal symbol variation, the host CPU 150a continues the effect display in the symbol variation until then.

  Further, when the start time of the performance notification mode is reached, the host CPU 150a notifies the sub CPU 120a that the start time of the performance notification mode has been reached, as described above. The sub CPU 120a changes the effect display after the next change to the effect display for the performance notification mode (special effect mode) by the start notification of the performance notification mode. However, in the case of this example, the next change is not started during the performance announcement mode, and the effect display is not changed by the sub CPU 120a.

  Next, the host CPU 150a divides the display screen area into an entire large screen area and a small window reduction screen area when there is an effect boundary in the symbol variation during the performance announcement mode. The host CPU 150a displays the symbol variation continuously on the entire large screen area. In addition, the host CPU 150a displays a notification screen that the music performance mode is about to start in the small window reduction screen area. Therefore, the performance announcement is reduced and displayed.

  Next, when the symbol variation does not end during the performance announcement mode and the start time of the music performance mode is reached, the host CPU 150a continues the split display of the entire large screen area and the small window reduced screen area. Then, the host CPU 150a performs the symbol variation display continuously on the entire large screen area. In addition, the host CPU 150a displays live video, video video, promotional video, etc. in the music performance mode in the small window reduction screen area. Therefore, the music performance is displayed in a reduced size.

  Further, when the start time of the music performance mode is reached, the host CPU 150a notifies the sub CPU 120a that the start time of the music performance mode has been reached, as described above. The sub CPU 120a changes the effect display after the next change to the effect display for the music performance mode (special effect mode) by the start notification of the music performance mode.

  Next, when the symbol variation ends during the music performance mode and the next symbol variation starts, the host CPU 150a increases the display screen area from the division of the entire large screen area and the small window reduced screen area. Change to large screen area and lower small screen area. The host CPU 150a displays a display screen showing the next symbol variation in the lower small screen area. In addition, the host CPU 150a displays live video, video video, promotional video, etc. in the music performance mode in the upper large screen area. Therefore, the music performance is displayed in divided areas.

  Further, when the end time of the music performance mode, that is, the end time of the special effect mode is reached, the host CPU 150a notifies the sub CPU 120a that the end time of the special effect mode has been reached. The sub CPU 120a changes the effect display after the next change to the effect display for the normal game effect mode in response to the end notification of the special effect mode.

  Next, a case will be described in which the performance notification mode is entered in the state where the symbol variation is not in the normal game performance mode, the symbol variation occurs during the performance notification mode, and the program performance mode continues. FIG. 25 (d) shows an example of an effect display in the case where the performance change mode is entered while the design variation is not in the normal game performance mode, the design variation occurs during the performance notification mode, and continues until the music performance mode. Indicates.

As shown in FIG. 25 (d), the host CPU 150a of the gaming machine 1 has the display screen area as the upper large screen area and the lower small area when there is no symbol variation display and the start time of the performance announcement mode is reached. Divide into screen area. The host CPU 150a displays a notification screen indicating that the music performance mode is about to start in the upper large screen area. In the same manner as described above, the host CPU 150a calculates and displays the time for counting down on the notification screen based on the main body management time.
In addition, the host CPU 150a displays the effect symbol 36 stopped and displayed in the previous variation display in the lower small screen area. At this time, the effect design 36 displayed in the lower small screen area is displayed as a simplified dot display image or the like.

  Further, when the start time of the performance notification mode is reached, the host CPU 150a notifies the sub CPU 120a that the start time of the performance notification mode has been reached, as described above. The sub CPU 120a changes the effect display after the next change to the effect display for the performance notification mode (special effect mode) by the start notification of the performance notification mode.

  Next, when a symbol change occurs during the performance announcement mode, the host CPU 150a continues the divided display of the upper large screen area and the lower small screen area. The host CPU 150a displays a display screen showing the symbol variation in the lower small screen area. In addition, the host CPU 150a continuously displays a notification screen indicating that the music performance mode is about to start in the upper large screen area. Also at this time, as described above, the host CPU 150a calculates and displays the time for which the counter is down on the notification screen based on the main body management time.

  Next, the host CPU 150a continues the divided display of the upper large screen area and the lower small screen area when the symbol variation does not end during the performance announcement mode and the start time of the music performance mode is reached. The host CPU 150a continuously displays symbols in the lower small screen area. In addition, the host CPU 150a displays live video, video video, promotional video, etc. in the music performance mode in the upper large screen area. Therefore, the music performance is displayed in divided areas.

  Further, when the start time of the music performance mode is reached, the host CPU 150a notifies the sub CPU 120a that the start time of the music performance mode has been reached, as described above. The sub CPU 120a changes the effect display after the next change to the effect display for the music performance mode (special effect mode) by the start notification of the music performance mode.

  Further, when the end time of the music performance mode, that is, the end time of the special effect mode is reached, the host CPU 150a notifies the sub CPU 120a that the end time of the special effect mode has been reached. The sub CPU 120a changes the effect display after the next change to the effect display for the normal game effect mode in response to the end notification of the special effect mode.

  As described above, the gaming machine 1 enters the music performance mode when the predetermined time is reached according to the main body management time that is accurately time-controlled, and displays live video, video video, promotional video, and the like. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 26, the same image is displayed simultaneously on a plurality of gaming machines. As a result, it is possible to excite the amusement hall like a live venue with a sense of unity.

  As described above, the gaming machine 1 in the present embodiment reads the time information from the RTC 180, sets the current frame's temporary time, compares the current frame's temporary time with the time of the previous frame, If the temporary time is within the predetermined range compared to the time of the previous frame, the temporary time of the current frame is adopted as the time of the current frame, and if it is outside the predetermined range, Since the time is adopted as the time of the current frame, even if illegal time information is read as the time information of the RTC 180 due to the influence of noise or the like, the managed time may become invalid, and the time may be greatly shifted. Can be prevented, and it is possible to cope with reading of illegal time information.

  In addition, since the gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment is configured to update the main body management time based on the time update of the RTC 180, it is possible to perform accurate time management with little error. In addition, since time management can be performed accurately as described above, the times of a plurality of gaming machines can be synchronized.

  In the present embodiment, the main body management time is managed by the image control board 150. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and may be managed by the effect control board 120 (sub CPU 120a). In this case, for example, when the timing of time update is detected in the image control board 150, the time update signal of the effect control board 120 is transmitted, and the effect control board 120 (sub CPU 120a) performs time management based on this time update signal. You can do that.

  Further, in the present embodiment, date information is read in the initialization process (step S2010) of the main process by the host CPU 150a of the image control board 150. At this time, the reading is performed a plurality of times for comparison. Thus, the validity of the date may be secured.

  Furthermore, the following is added to the present invention.

(Appendix 1)
A time measuring means for measuring time and storing time information of the time measured in the time measuring storage unit;
Time reading means for reading time information stored in the timekeeping time storage unit;
Time comparison means for comparing the current time information read by the time reading means with the previous time information adopted as current time information before a predetermined time;
Time determination means for determining time information to be adopted as current time information based on the comparison result by the time comparison means;
Time storage means for storing time information determined by the time determination means;
Production execution means for performing production based on the determined time information;
With
The time comparison unit compares the current time information read out by the time reading unit in the current reading and the previous time information adopted before a predetermined time stored in the time storage unit,
The time determination means, when the time comparison means determines that the current time according to the current time information is a time within a predetermined time range as compared with the previous time according to the previous time information. Adopts the current time information as the current time information, and if it is determined that the time is out of the predetermined time range, the previous time information stored in the time storage means is used as the current time information. A gaming machine characterized by adoption.

(Appendix 2)
The time determination unit stores the current time in the time storage unit when the time comparison unit determines that the current time is not the same as the previous time or a time other than a time after a predetermined unit update time. The gaming machine according to appendix 1, wherein the stored previous time information is adopted as current time information.

(Appendix 3)
Primary power supply means for supplying power to the gaming machine body;
Secondary power supply means capable of supplying power to the timekeeping means without power supply by the primary power supply means;
The gaming machine according to appendix 1 or appendix 2, characterized by comprising:

(Appendix 4)
The effect execution means generates an effect image and outputs it to the image display unit at the predetermined interval.
From the supplementary note 1, the time readout unit reads out the time information for determining the current time according to the timing at which the production execution unit outputs the production image to the image display unit. The gaming machine according to any one of appendix 3.

  As described above, the gaming machine according to the present invention has an effect of being able to cope with reading illegal time information, and is useful as a gaming machine or the like that uses time information.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Game machine 2 Game board 6 Game area | region 13 Normal symbol gate 14 1st starting port 14a 1st starting port detection switch 15 2nd starting port 15a 2nd starting port detection switch 16 1st grand prize port 17 2nd grand prize port 31 Effect display device 32 Audio output device 33 Effect drive device 34 Effect illumination device 35 Effect button 35a Effect button detection switch 36 Effect symbol 39 Cross key 110 Main control board 110a Main CPU
110b Main ROM
110c Main RAM
120 Production control board 120a Sub CPU
120b Sub ROM
120c sub RAM
130 Discharge control board 140 Lamp control board 150 Image control board 155 Sound control circuit 160 Launch control board 170 Power supply board 180 RTC

Claims (2)

A time measuring means for measuring time and storing time information of the time measured in the time measuring storage unit;
Time reading means for reading time information stored in the timekeeping storage unit;
Time comparison means for comparing the current time information read by the time reading means with the previous time information adopted as current time information before a predetermined time;
Time determination means for determining time information to be adopted as current time information based on the comparison result by the time comparison means;
Time storage means for storing time information determined by the time determination means;
Production execution means for performing production based on the determined time information;
With
The time comparison unit compares the current time information read out by the time reading unit in the current reading and the previous time information adopted before a predetermined time stored in the time storage unit,
The time determination means, when the time comparison means determines that the current time according to the current time information is a time within a predetermined time range as compared with the previous time according to the previous time information. Adopts the current time information as the current time information, and if it is determined that the time is out of the predetermined time range, the previous time information stored in the time storage means is used as the current time information. A gaming machine characterized by adoption. The time determination unit stores the current time in the time storage unit when the time comparison unit determines that the current time is not the same as the previous time or a time other than a time after a predetermined unit update time. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the stored previous time information is adopted as current time information.