JP5404082B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine.

  Conventionally, a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine is provided with a start port for lottery whether or not to change to a gaming state in which a large profit is given to a player. For example, when a game ball wins a start opening, a random number is acquired at the timing of winning, and it is determined whether or not to change the gaming state based on the acquired random number.

  For example, there is a method for generating the random number by software (software random number method). In the software random number method, one value is sequentially added using a random number sequence as part of the program control of the gaming machine at the same time when the gaming machine is turned on. When the addition process proceeds to the final value (maximum value) of the random number, the process returns to the initial value (0) and the addition is repeated. In this way, random numbers (software random numbers) obtained by the software random number method are regularly added, and the period in which specific random numbers are counted becomes constant. Therefore, it may be possible for the player to aim at a specific random number by grasping the period in which the random number makes one round.

  For example, the gaming machine disclosed in Patent Document 1 defines the initial value as a random value in order to change the periodicity of such random number generation. In the gaming machine disclosed in Patent Document 1, since the timing at which a specific random number is counted changes depending on an initial value that is determined, it is difficult to aim at the specific random number.

JP 2000-210434 A

  However, in the software random number method, one value is sequentially added using the random number sequence at the same time as turning on the power to the gaming machine, so the random number is counted from the time of turning on the power to the final value (maximum value). In the period up to the time point, it becomes possible to aim for a specific random number. For example, even in the gaming machine disclosed in Patent Document 1, the initial value immediately after power-on is “0”, so the time until a specific random number is counted based on the power-on time is constant. End up.

  Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine in which it is difficult to aim for a specific random number immediately after power-on.

  In order to achieve the above object, the present invention employs the following configuration. Note that the reference numerals in parentheses, step numbers, and the like indicate correspondence with the embodiments described later in order to help understanding of the present invention, and do not limit the scope of the present invention.

  A first invention is a gaming machine (1) played by a player. The gaming machine includes hardware random number generation means (104) and control means (100). The hardware random number generation means generates a random hardware random number based on a predetermined clock signal. The control means controls the operation of the gaming machine. The control means includes game control means (main control unit 100 that executes steps S705 to S716; hereinafter, only step numbers are described) and start timing control means (S701 to S704, S901 to S904). The game control means controls the game operation of the gaming machine. The start timing control means changes the timing at which the game control means starts control after the power is turned on, according to the hardware random number generated by the hardware random number generation means when the game machine is turned on.

  In a second aspect based on the first aspect described above, the game control means counts for each predetermined processing cycle (S705) and performs a hit determination of the gaming machine using the software random number (D1) (S706 to S709). Thus, the gaming operation of the gaming machine is controlled.

  In a third aspect based on the second aspect, the game control means updates the software random number by counting up from 0 to 1 every predetermined processing period when the control of the game operation is started.

  In a fourth aspect based on the first or second aspect, the start timing control means performs predetermined processing for the number of times corresponding to the hardware random number generated when the gaming machine is turned on after turning on the gaming machine. Is repeatedly executed, and the control of the game control means is started after the execution.

  In a fifth aspect based on the fourth aspect, the start timing control means sets the maximum value (Tmax) as a hardware random number generated when the gaming machine is turned on after turning on the gaming machine. The process of repeatedly adding a predetermined value (T + 1) to a predetermined initial value (T = 0) until it reaches (T704) is repeatedly executed (S704), and the added value (T) reaches the maximum value ( In S703, the control of the game control means is started.

  In a sixth aspect based on the fourth aspect, the start timing control means uses the hardware random number generated when the gaming machine is turned on after the gaming machine is turned on as a maximum value (Tmax). The process of sequentially subtracting a predetermined value from T (T-1) is repeatedly executed (S904), and the control of the game control means is started when the subtracted value (T) becomes 0 or less (Yes in S903). Let

  According to the first aspect of the invention, since the time point at which the control of the gaming operation of the gaming machine is started after the gaming machine is turned on is irregular, it is difficult to aim for a specific random number immediately after the gaming machine is turned on.

  According to the second aspect of the invention, since the time point when the game control means starts the process of generating the software random number after turning on the power of the gaming machine is irregular, the specific software random number is set immediately after turning on the gaming machine. It becomes difficult to aim, and it is difficult to aim at the hit immediately after turning on the power of the gaming machine.

  According to the third aspect of the invention, even when the game control means generates a software random number by counting up from 0 to 1 every predetermined processing cycle after the gaming machine is turned on, the specific software random number It becomes difficult to aim at the hit immediately after turning on the power of the gaming machine.

  According to the fourth aspect of the invention, the timing at which the control of the game control means is started is easily changed by changing the number of times the predetermined process is repeated according to the hardware random number before the control of the game control means is started. be able to.

  According to the fifth aspect, the timing at which the game control means starts controlling changes according to the time for sequentially adding from the initial value (for example, 0) to the maximum value, so the maximum value is determined according to the hardware random number. By setting, the timing for starting the control of the game control means can be easily changed.

  According to the sixth aspect of the invention, since the timing at which the game control means starts control changes according to the time for sequentially subtracting from the maximum value to 0, the game is set by setting the maximum value according to the hardware random number. The timing for starting control of the control means can be easily changed.

Schematic front view showing an example of a gaming machine 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention The enlarged view which shows an example of the indicator 3 provided in the gaming machine 1 of FIG. Partial plan view of the gaming machine 1 of FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a control device provided in the gaming machine 1 of FIG. The figure which shows an example of the data and program which are memorize | stored in RAM103 of the main control part 100 of FIG. The figure which shows an example of the jackpot random number data D2 memorize | stored in RAM103 of FIG. The figure which shows an example of the jackpot symbol random number data D3 memorize | stored in RAM103 of FIG. The figure which shows an example of the reach random number data D4 memorize | stored in RAM103 of FIG. The figure which shows an example of the hit random number data D5 memorize | stored in RAM103 of FIG. The figure which shows an example of the table for jackpots of the table data D10 memorize | stored in RAM103 of FIG. The figure which shows an example of the table for latency of the table data D10 memorize | stored in RAM103 of FIG. The figure which shows an example of the table for reach of the table data D10 memorize | stored in RAM103 of FIG. The figure which shows an example of the table for loss of the table data D10 memorize | stored in RAM103 of FIG. The flowchart which shows an example of the process performed in the main control part 100 of FIG. Subroutine showing the detailed operation of the start port switch process in step S706 of FIG. Subroutine showing the detailed operation of the gate switch processing in step S707 of FIG. Subroutine showing detailed operation of special symbol processing in step S708 of FIG. Subroutine showing the detailed operation of the jackpot determination process in step S745 of FIG. A subroutine showing the detailed operation of the variation pattern selection process in step S746 of FIG. Subroutine showing the detailed operation of the stop process in step S754 in FIG. Subroutine showing the detailed operation of the probability variation gaming state setting process in step S807 of FIG. Subroutine showing detailed operation of normal symbol processing in step S709 of FIG. Subroutine showing the detailed operation of a part of the big prize opening process in step S710 of FIG. Subroutine showing the detailed operation of the remaining portion of the big prize opening process in step S710 of FIG. Subroutine showing the detailed operation of the small hit processing in step S865 in FIG. The subroutine which shows the detailed operation | movement of the electric tulip process in step S711 of FIG. The figure for demonstrating an example of the transition from which the gaming state of the gaming machine 1 changes The figure for demonstrating the initial loop process and main loop process which are performed with the gaming machine 1 The flowchart which shows the other example of the process performed in the main control part 100 of FIG.

  Hereinafter, a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 1 is a schematic front view showing an example of a gaming machine 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is an enlarged view showing an example of the display 3 provided in the gaming machine 1. FIG. 3 is a partial plan view of the gaming machine 1.

  In FIG. 1, a gaming machine 1 is a pachinko gaming machine configured to pay out a winning ball when a gaming ball launched by an instruction operation by a player wins a prize, for example. This gaming machine 1 includes a game board 2 on which game balls are launched, and a frame member 5 surrounding the game board 2. The frame member 5 is configured to be openable and closable with respect to the main part of the gaming machine 1 around a hinge provided on the shaft support side, and is detachably attached to the game board 2. And the lock part 43 is provided in the predetermined position (for example, edge part on the opposite side to a shaft support side) which becomes the front side of the frame member 5, and the frame member 5 is unlocked by unlocking the lock part 43. Can be opened.

  A game area 20 for playing a game with a game ball is formed on the front surface of the game board 2. In the gaming area 20, a rail member (from which a game ball launched from below (the launching device 211; see FIG. 4) rises along the main surface of the game board 2 and forms a path toward the upper position of the gaming area 20 ( (Not shown) and a guide member (not shown) for guiding the raised game ball to the right side of the game area 20.

  In addition, the game board 2 is provided with an image display unit 21 that displays images for various effects at positions that are easily visible to the player. The image display unit 21 notifies the player of the symbol lottery result (symbol variation result) by displaying, for example, a decorative symbol according to the progress of the game by the player, or notices by the appearance of a character or the appearance of an item. Display the production. The image display unit 21 is described as a liquid crystal display device, an EL (Electro Luminescence) display device, an LED (Light Emitting Diode) dot display device, and a 7-segment display (hereinafter referred to as a 7-segment display device). However, any other display device may be used. Further, a movable accessory 22 and a board lamp 23 used for various effects are provided on the front surface of the game board 2. The movable accessory 22 is configured to be movable with respect to the game board 2 and performs various effects by moving it with a predetermined operation in accordance with the progress of the game by the player. The board lamp 23 emits light according to the progress of the game by the player, thereby performing various effects by light.

  The game area 20 is provided with a game nail and a windmill (both not shown) that change the direction in which the game ball falls downward. Further, in the game area 20, various bonuses related to winning and lottery are arranged at predetermined positions. In FIG. 1, a start opening 25, a gate 27, a large winning opening 28, and a normal winning opening 29 are arranged on the game board 2 as examples of various prizes related to winning and lottery. Further, the game area 20 is provided with a discharge port 24 for discharging out of the game area 20 a game ball that has not been won in the winning area among the game balls launched into the game area 20.

  The start opening 25 wins when a game ball enters, and a special symbol lottery (a jackpot lottery) is started. The starting opening 25 operates a predetermined special electric accessory (big winning opening 28) and / or a predetermined special symbol display (for example, a special symbol display 31 described later). It is a winning mouth related to the winning. When the game ball passes through the gate 27, a normal symbol lottery (open / close lottery) is started.

  The start port 25 includes an electric tulip 26 in the vicinity of the entrance of the game ball as an example of a normal electric accessory. The electric tulip 26 has a pair of wings imitating tulip flowers, and the pair of wings opens and closes left and right by driving an electric tulip opening / closing unit 112 (for example, an electric solenoid), which will be described later. Lights up or blinks together. When the pair of blade portions of the electric tulip 26 are closed, the opening width guided to the entrance of the start port 25 is relatively narrow, so that the game ball is difficult to enter the start port 25. On the other hand, the electric tulip 26 is configured so that the game ball can easily enter the starting port 25 because the opening width guided to the inlet of the starting port 25 increases when the pair of blade portions opens left and right. When the electric tulip 26 wins the normal symbol lottery by passing the game ball through the gate 27, the pair of blade portions open for a specified time (for example, 6 seconds) while lighting or flashing, and the specified number of times (for example, 3) Open and close).

  The special winning opening 28 is located below the start opening 25 and is opened according to the result of the special symbol lottery. The special winning opening 28 is normally in a closed state so that no game balls can enter, but depending on the result of the special symbol lottery, it protrudes from the main surface of the game board 2 and is in an open state. The game ball is easy to enter. For example, the grand prize winning opening 28 is a predetermined number of rounds (for example, 30 seconds have elapsed or the game is open until the game ball is won or the accumulated cumulative time of 10 gaming balls is within 1.8 seconds). , 15 times or 2 times). Further, the lottery does not start at the normal winning opening 29 even if a game ball wins.

  In addition, a display 3 is provided at a predetermined position (for example, lower right) of the game board 2 to display the result of the above-described special symbol lottery or normal symbol lottery and the number of holds. Details of the display 3 will be described later.

  The gaming machine 1 shown in FIG. 1 is provided with one start opening 25 in the game area 20, but is provided with a plurality of start openings for winning a special symbol lottery when a game ball enters. It doesn't matter. Further, the gaming machine 1 is provided with one big winning opening 28 in the gaming area 20, but a plurality of big winning openings having the same function as the big winning opening 28 may be provided.

  In addition, as will be apparent from the description below, the gaming machine 1 may vary in jackpot probability that a jackpot will be drawn in a special symbol lottery under a predetermined condition. For example, the gaming machine 1 has a state in which the jackpot probability is relatively low (low probability state; for example, the jackpot probability is 1/300) to a state in which the jackpot probability is relatively high (high probability state; for example, the jackpot probability is 30 May fluctuate to 1). In addition, the gaming machine 1 can reduce the special symbol fluctuation time at the time of the special symbol lottery under a predetermined condition, increase the probability of winning at the time of the normal symbol lottery, or reduce the normal symbol fluctuation time at the time of the normal symbol lottery. In some cases, the opening time of the blade portion of the electric tulip 26 is extended, or the number of times the blade portion of the electric tulip 26 is opened and closed increases (electric chew support).

  Here, the payout of prize balls will be described. When a game ball enters the start opening 25, the big winning opening 28, and the normal winning opening 29 (winning), a predetermined number of winning balls per game ball are paid out according to the place where the game ball has won. For example, when a game ball is won at the start opening 25, four prize balls are awarded. When a game ball is won at the big prize opening 28, 13 prize balls are awarded. When a game ball is awarded at the ordinary prize opening 29, ten prize balls are obtained. To be paid out. Even if it is detected that the game ball has passed through the gate 27, there is no payout of the prize ball in conjunction with it.

  The frame member 5 on the front surface of the gaming machine 1 includes a handle 51, a lever 52, a stop button 53, a take-out button 54, a speaker 55, a frame lamp 56, an effect button 57, an effect key 58, a dish 59, a lock part 43, and the like. Is provided.

  When the player touches the handle 51 and performs an operation to rotate the lever 52 in the clockwise direction, the launching device 211 (at 100 hits per minute) with a hitting force corresponding to the operation angle (for example, 100 per minute). 4) electrically fires the game ball. The tray 59 (see FIG. 3) is provided so as to protrude forward of the gaming machine 1, and temporarily stores game balls to be supplied to the launching device 211. In addition, the above-described prize ball is paid out to the plate 59. Then, the game balls stored in the tray 59 are supplied to the launching device 211 one by one by a supply device (not shown) at a timing linked with the operation by the player's lever 52. In addition, the plate 59 may be configured by integrating the upper and lower plates, or may be configured by separating the upper plate and the lower plate. The handle 51 may emit light under predetermined conditions.

  The stop button 53 is provided on the lower side surface of the handle 51, and even when the player touches the handle 51 and rotates the lever 52 in the clockwise direction, the game ball is released by being pressed by the player. Is temporarily stopped. The take-out button 54 is provided on the front surface in the vicinity of the position where the tray 59 is provided. When the player presses the game ball, the game ball stored on the tray 59 is dropped into a box (not shown).

  The speaker 55 and the frame lamp 56 respectively notify the gaming state and situation of the gaming machine 1 and perform various effects. The speaker 55 performs various effects using music, voice, and sound effects. Further, the frame lamp 56 performs various effects by light depending on a pattern by lighting / flashing, a difference in emission color, or the like. Note that the frame lamp 56 may change the light irradiation direction and produce an effect by changing the irradiation direction.

  Next, the display 3 provided in the gaming machine 1 will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 2, the display 3 includes a special symbol display 31, a special symbol hold display 32, a normal symbol display 33, a normal symbol hold display 34, and a game state display 35.

  The special symbol display 31 is displayed with the display symbol varying in response to the game ball winning at the start opening 25. For example, the special symbol display 31 is composed of a 7-segment display device, and when a game ball wins at the start opening 25, the special symbol is variably displayed and the lottery result is displayed. In the normal symbol display 33, the display symbol is changed and displayed in response to the game ball passing through the gate 27. For example, the normal symbol display 33 is constituted by an LED display device, and when a game ball passes through the gate 27, the normal symbol is variably displayed and the lottery result is displayed.

  The special symbol hold indicator 32 displays the number of times the special symbol lottery is held. The normal symbol hold display 34 displays the number of times the normal symbol lottery is held. For example, if another game ball wins during the period when the display symbol is variably displayed by the special symbol display 31 or the normal symbol display 33 (while the variability display for one winning is being performed) The variation display of the display pattern for the winning game ball is held for a predetermined number of times (for example, four times) until the variation display for the previously won gaming ball is completed. The fact that such a hold is made and the number of the hold (the number of undrawn lots) are displayed on the special symbol hold indicator 32 and the normal symbol hold indicator 34. For example, the special symbol hold indicator 32 and the normal symbol hold indicator 34 are each configured by LED display devices arranged in a row, and the number of times of hold is displayed according to the lighting mode.

  The game status indicator 35 displays the game status at the time when the gaming machine 1 is powered on. As will be apparent from the description below, the gaming machine 1 is set with a plurality of gaming states (for example, a normal gaming state, a probability variation gaming state, a short-time gaming state, and a latent gaming state). When the power of the gaming machine 1 is turned on, the gaming state is notified by the gaming state indicator 35. For example, the gaming status indicator 35 is composed of a plurality of LED display devices, and the gaming status is displayed according to the lighting mode.

  Next, an input device provided in the gaming machine 1 will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 3, the gaming machine 1 is provided with an effect button 57 and an effect key 58 as an example of an input device.

  The effect button 57 and the effect key 58 are provided for the player to input the effect. The effect button 57 is provided on the upper side of the dish 59 protruding forward of the gaming machine 1. The production key 58 has a center key and a plurality of keys arranged in a substantially cross shape, and is provided on the upper side of the plate 59 adjacent to the production button 57. For example, the production key 58 is configured such that one central key is arranged at the center and four peripheral keys having substantially the same shape are arranged around the central key. The effect button 57 and the effect key 58 are each pressed by the player to perform a predetermined effect. For example, the player can select any of a plurality of images displayed on the image display unit 21 by operating four surrounding keys of the effect key 58. Further, the player can input the selected image as information by operating the center key of the effect key 58.

  In addition, on the back side of the inner frame body, a ball tank for storing game balls for payout and a payout device (payout drive unit 311) for paying out game balls to the tray 59 are provided, and various substrates are attached. It has been. For example, a main board, a sub board, and the like are disposed on the rear surface of the game board 2. More specifically, the main board includes a main control board configured with a main control unit 100 that performs internal lottery and determination of winning, etc., and a launch control that controls a launch device 211 that launches a game ball to the upper part of the game area 20. A launch control board in which the unit 200 is configured, a payout control board in which a payout control unit 300 that controls the payout of prize balls, and the like are disposed. The main board is sealed by a main board case made of a transparent member so that a trace remains when opened. In addition, the sub-board includes an effect control board configured with an effect control section 400 that controls the effects in an integrated manner, an image control board configured with an image sound control section 500 configured to control effects with images and sounds, and various types A lamp control board or the like on which a lamp control unit 600 that controls the effects of the lamp (frame lamp 56, panel lamp 23) and the movable accessory 22 is provided. Further, on the rear surface of the gaming board 2, a switching power source is provided that converts 100V AC power supplied to the gaming machine 1 to DC power and outputs the DC power to the various boards described above.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 4, a control device that performs operation control and signal processing in the gaming machine 1 will be described. FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the control device provided in the gaming machine 1.

  In FIG. 4, the control device of the gaming machine 1 includes a main control unit 100, a launch control unit 200, a payout control unit 300, an effect control unit 400, an image sound control unit 500, and a lamp control unit 600.

  The main control unit 100 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 101, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 102, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 103, and a random number circuit 104. The CPU 101 performs arithmetic processing when performing various controls related to the number of payout prize balls, such as internal lottery and determination of winning. The ROM 102 stores programs executed by the CPU 101, various data, and the like, and the RAM 103 is used as a work memory for the CPU 101. The random number circuit 104 is a random number generation circuit provided to supply a random number to the CPU 101. The random number (hardware random number) generated by a so-called hardware generation method (hardware random number method) is used as the CPU 101. To supply. For example, the random number circuit 104 always counts a random value as a hardware value by counting with a counter (for example, a 16-bit counter) by a predetermined algorithm based on reception of a clock signal generated regardless of software processing performed by the CPU 101. Generated as a wear random number. Hereinafter, main functions of the main control unit 100 will be described.

  The main control unit 100 performs a special symbol lottery when a game ball wins the start opening 25, and sends determination result data indicating whether or not the special symbol lottery is won to the effect control unit 400. In addition, the main control unit 100 includes data indicating a variation setting of the winning probability determined according to the special symbol lottery (for example, a variation setting from 1/300 to 1/30) and a special symbol variation time reduction setting, Data indicating the setting for shortening the normal symbol variation time determined according to the normal symbol lottery is sent to the effect control unit 400. In the present embodiment, hardware random numbers are used when the gaming machine 1 is turned on, and software random numbers are used in the subsequent processing. Here, the software random number is a random number generated by a method of generating a random number performed by software (software random number method). As a part of program control of the CPU 101, a value is sequentially set to 1 using a random number sequence. It is generated by adding two. As the hardware random number, for example, when the random number circuit 104 is configured by a 16-bit counter, a random value selected from the range of 0 to 65535 is generated as the hardware random number.

  The main control unit 100 controls the opening time when the blade portion of the electric tulip 26 is opened, the number of times the blade portion is opened and closed, and the opening / closing time interval at which the blade portion is opened and closed. Further, the main control unit 100 manages the number of times when the game ball has won the start opening 25 and the number of times when the game ball has passed through the gate 27.

  The main control unit 100 controls the opening / closing operation of the special winning opening 28 according to the result of the special symbol lottery. For example, the main control unit 100 keeps the big winning opening 28 in a projecting and inclined state until a predetermined condition (for example, 30 seconds elapse or 10 game balls are won or the accumulated accumulated time is less than 1.8 seconds). Control is performed so that the maintained round is repeated a predetermined number of times (for example, 15 times or 2 times). In addition, the main control unit 100 controls the opening / closing time interval at which the special winning opening 28 opens and closes.

  When a game ball wins the start opening 25, the big winning opening 28, and the normal winning opening 29, the main control unit 100 pays out a predetermined number of winning balls per game ball according to the place where the game ball has won. In addition, the payout control unit 300 is instructed about the number of payouts. For example, the main control unit 100 determines that four game balls are awarded when the game ball is won at the start opening 25, 13 prize balls are awarded when the game ball is awarded at the big prize opening 28, and 10 when the game ball is awarded at the normal prize opening 29. An instruction command (command) is sent to the payout control unit 300 so as to pay out each prize ball. Even if the main control unit 100 detects that the game ball has passed through the gate 27, the main control unit 100 does not instruct the payout control unit 300 to pay out the prize ball in conjunction therewith. When the payout control unit 300 pays out a prize ball according to an instruction from the main control unit 100, information on the number of prize balls paid out from the payout control unit 300 is sent to the main control unit 100. Then, the main control unit 100 manages the number of paid-out prize balls based on the information acquired from the payout control unit 300.

  The main control unit 100 controls the launching device 211 that launches the game ball via the launch control unit 200. For example, the main control unit 100 transmits a signal permitting the operation of the launching device 211 to launch a game ball to the launch control unit 200 via the payout control unit 300 based on a predetermined condition.

  In order to realize the above-described functions, the main control unit 100 includes a start port switch 111, an electric tulip opening / closing unit 112, a gate switch 113, a big winning port switch 114, a big winning port opening / closing unit 115, a normal winning port switch 116, A special symbol display 31, a special symbol hold indicator 32, a normal symbol indicator 33, and a normal symbol hold indicator 34 are connected.

  The start port switch 111 detects that a game ball has won the start port 25 and sends a detection signal to the main control unit 100. The electric tulip opening / closing unit 112 opens and closes the pair of blade portions of the electric tulip 26 in response to a control signal sent from the main control unit 100. The gate switch 113 detects that the game ball has passed through the gate 27 and sends a detection signal to the main control unit 100. The big prize opening switch 114 detects that a game ball has won the big prize opening 28 and sends a detection signal to the main control unit 100. The special prize opening / closing unit 115 opens and closes the special prize opening 28 in response to a control signal sent from the main control unit 100. The normal winning port switch 116 detects that a game ball has won the normal winning port 29 and sends a detection signal to the main control unit 100.

  The main control unit 100 also displays on the special symbol display 31 the result of the special symbol lottery started by winning the game ball in the starting port 25. The main control unit 100 displays on the special symbol hold indicator 32 the number of times the lottery is put on hold in accordance with the winning of the game ball to the start opening 25. The main control unit 100 displays the result of the normal symbol lottery started by passing the game ball to the gate 27 on the normal symbol display 33. Then, the main control unit 100 displays the number of holdings on which the lottery is put on hold according to the passing of the game ball to the gate 27 on the normal symbol holding display 34.

  Further, the main control unit 100 transmits various types of information to a host computer provided in a store (hall) in which the gaming machine 1 is installed. Then, the main control unit 100 transmits information regarding the number of paid-out prize balls acquired from the payout control unit 300, information indicating the state of the main control unit 100, and the like to the host computer.

  The launch control unit 200 includes a CPU 201, a ROM 202, and a RAM 203. The CPU 201 performs arithmetic processing when performing various controls related to the launching device 211. The ROM 202 stores programs executed by the CPU 201 and various data, and the RAM 203 is used as a work memory for the CPU 201.

  When the position of the lever 52 is in the neutral position, the lever 52 is in a firing stop state without outputting a signal. When the lever 52 is rotated in the clockwise direction, the lever 52 outputs a signal corresponding to the rotation angle to the launch control unit 200 as a hitting ball firing command signal. The launch control unit 200 controls the launch operation of the launch device 211 based on the hit ball launch command signal. For example, the launch control unit 200 controls the operation of the launch device 211 such that the speed at which the game ball is launched increases as the rotation angle of the lever 52 increases. Further, the launch control unit 200 can perform the launch operation of the launch device 211 by receiving a signal permitting launch from the main control unit 100. On the other hand, when the signal indicating that the stop button 53 is pressed is output or the control signal for stopping the emission is output from the main control unit 100, the launch control unit 200 performs the operation of launching the game ball by the launch device 211. Stop.

  The payout control unit 300 includes a CPU 301, a ROM 302, and a RAM 303. The CPU 301 performs a calculation process when controlling the payout of the payout ball. The ROM 302 stores programs executed by the CPU 301, various data, and the like, and the RAM 303 is used as a working memory for the CPU 301 and the like. Then, the payout control unit 300 controls payout of the payout ball based on the command sent from the main control unit 100.

  Specifically, the payout control unit 300 acquires from the main control unit 100 a command for paying out a predetermined number of prize balls according to the place where the game ball has won. Then, the payout driving unit 311 is controlled so as to pay out the number of prize balls specified by the command. Here, the payout drive unit 311 is configured by a drive motor or the like that sends out a game ball from a game ball storage unit (ball tank).

  The payout controller 300 transmits various information to the host computer. For example, the payout control unit 300 transmits information on the number of prize balls instructed to be paid out to the payout driving unit 311, information on the number of prize balls actually paid out, and the like to the host computer. Also, the payout control unit 300 transmits similar information to the main control unit 100.

  The effect control unit 400 includes a CPU 401, a ROM 402, a RAM 403, and an RTC (real time clock) 404. In addition, an effect button 57 and an effect key 58 are connected to the effect control unit 400. The CPU 401 performs a calculation process when controlling the effect. The ROM 402 stores programs executed by the CPU 401, various data, and the like, and the RAM 403 is used as a working memory for the CPU 401. The RTC 404 measures the current date and time.

  The production control unit 400 sets production contents based on data indicating the special symbol lottery result and the like sent from the main control unit 100. At that time, when the player presses the effect button 57 or the effect key 58, the effect control unit 400 may set the effect content according to the operation input. In addition, when the game for the gaming machine 1 is interrupted for a predetermined period or longer, the effect control unit 400 sets an effect for waiting for a customer as one of the effects. Furthermore, when the main control unit 100 outputs data indicating that the winning probability at the time of the special symbol lottery is changed, or when outputting data indicating that the special symbol change time at the time of the special symbol lottery is shortened, When the data indicating that the normal symbol variation time at the time of the normal symbol lottery is shortened is output, the effect control unit 400 sets the effect contents corresponding to the contents indicated by the output data. Then, the effect control unit 400 sends commands for instructing execution of the set effect contents to the image sound control unit 500 and the lamp control unit 600, respectively.

  The image sound control unit 500 includes a CPU 501, a ROM 502, and a RAM 503. The CPU 501 performs arithmetic processing when controlling the image and sound expressing the content of the effect. The ROM 502 stores programs executed by the CPU 501 and various data, and the RAM 503 is used as a working memory for the CPU 501.

  The image sound control unit 500 controls the image displayed on the image display unit 21 and the sound output from the speaker 55 based on the command sent from the effect control unit 400. Specifically, in the ROM 502 of the image sound control unit 500, a symbol image or background image displayed during the game on the image display unit 21, a decorative symbol for notifying the player of the lottery result, and a notice effect for the player. Image data such as characters and items to be displayed is stored. Further, the ROM 502 of the image sound control unit 500 synchronizes with the image displayed on the image display unit 21 or independently of the displayed image, such as music and sound output from the speaker 55, and further, a jingle or the like. Various acoustic data such as sound effects are stored. The CPU 501 of the image sound control unit 500 selects and reads out the data corresponding to the command sent from the effect control unit 400 from the image data and sound data stored in the ROM 502. The CPU 501 performs image processing for background image display, symbol image display, symbol image variation, character / item display, and the like using the read image data. Further, the CPU 501 performs voice processing using the read acoustic data. Then, the CPU 501 displays the image indicated by the image processed image data on the image display unit 21. Further, the CPU 501 outputs the sound indicated by the sound data subjected to the sound processing from the speaker 55.

  The lamp control unit 600 includes a CPU 601, a ROM 602, and a RAM 603. The CPU 601 performs arithmetic processing when controlling the light emission of the panel lamp 23 and the frame lamp 56 and the operation of the movable accessory 22. The ROM 602 stores programs executed by the CPU 601 and various data, and the RAM 603 is used as a working memory for the CPU 601.

  The lamp control unit 600 controls the lighting / flashing of the panel lamp 23 and the frame lamp 56, the emission color, and the like based on the command sent from the effect control unit 400. In addition, the lamp control unit 600 controls the operation of the movable accessory 22 based on the command sent from the effect control unit 400. Specifically, the ROM 602 of the lamp control unit 600 stores lighting / flashing pattern data and emission color pattern data (light emission pattern data) for the panel lamp 23 and the frame lamp 56 according to the production contents set by the production control unit 400. Data) is stored. The CPU 601 selects and reads out the light emission pattern data stored in the ROM 602 corresponding to the command sent from the effect control unit 400. Then, the CPU 601 controls the light emission of the panel lamp 23 and the frame lamp 56 based on the read light emission pattern data. In addition, the ROM 602 stores operation pattern data of the movable accessory 22 corresponding to the production contents set by the production control unit 400. The CPU 601 selects and reads out the operation pattern data stored in the ROM 602 corresponding to the command sent from the effect control unit 400. Then, the CPU 601 controls the operation of the movable accessory 22 based on the read operation pattern data.

  Next, details of processing performed in the gaming machine 1 (specifically, processing performed in the main control unit 100) will be described. First, main data and programs used in the processing will be described with reference to FIGS. 5, 6A to 6D, and 7A to 7D. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of data and programs stored in the RAM 103 of the main control unit 100. FIG. 6A is a diagram illustrating an example of jackpot random number data D <b> 2 stored in the RAM 103. FIG. 6B is a diagram illustrating an example of jackpot symbol random number data D3 stored in the RAM 103. FIG. 6C is a diagram illustrating an example of the reach random number data D4 stored in the RAM 103. FIG. 6D is a diagram illustrating an example of the hit random number data D5 stored in the RAM 103. FIG. 7A is a diagram illustrating an example of a jackpot table of the table data D10 stored in the RAM 103. FIG. 7B is a diagram illustrating an example of a latent table of table data D10 stored in the RAM 103. FIG. 7C is a diagram illustrating an example of a reach table of the table data D10 stored in the RAM 103. FIG. 7D is a diagram illustrating an example of a table for losing the table data D10 stored in the RAM 103.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the RAM 103 has a data storage area 103D and a program storage area 103P. In the data storage area 103D, random number data D1, jackpot random number data D2, jackpot symbol random number data D3, reach random number data D4, hit random number data D5, hold count data D6, lottery result random number data D7, variation command data D8, variation time Data D9, table data D10, variation pattern data D11, gaming state data D12, symbol setting data D13, symbol data D14, release number data D15, release round number data D16, winning command data D17, winning number data D18, release time data D19, maximum value data D20, timer value data D21, and the like are stored. The program storage area 103P stores various programs P1 that cause the gaming machine 1 to operate.

  In the random number data D1, data indicating software random numbers updated by the main control unit 100 is stored. For example, the random number data D1 includes various software random numbers (big hit random numbers (eg, 0 to 299), big hit symbol random numbers (eg, 0 to 9), reach random numbers (eg, 0 to 249) updated by the main control unit 100. ), Random numbers (for example, 0 to 9), fluctuation pattern random numbers (for example, 0 to 249), and initial value random numbers (for example, 0 to 299) are stored.

  The jackpot random number data D2 stores data for determining whether the acquired jackpot random number is a big hit, a small hit, or not. For example, as shown in FIG. 6A, the jackpot random number data D2 includes a random number value that is a jackpot when the gaming machine 1 is in the normal gaming state and the short-time gaming state, and the gaming machine 1 is in the probability changing gaming state and the latent gaming state. Random values that are sometimes big hits and random numbers that are big hits are described. Specifically, the range of the value of the jackpot random number is 0 to 299. In the jackpot random number data D2, in the normal gaming state and the short-time gaming state, one random number value for winning the jackpot is set, and the jackpot winning probability is 1/300. In the jackpot random number data D2, in the probability variation gaming state and the latent gaming state, ten random number values to win the jackpot are set, and the jackpot winning probability is 10/300 (= 1/30). That is, in the example of FIG. 6A, when the special symbol lottery is performed in the normal gaming state and the short-time gaming state when the winning symbol 25 is won and the special symbol lottery is performed in the probability variation gaming state and the latent gaming state, the big hit Will win 10 times. Further, in the jackpot random number data D2, regardless of the gaming state of the gaming machine 1, six random numbers for winning a small hit are set, and the winning probability for the jackpot is 6/300 (= 1/50). .

  The jackpot symbol random number data D3 stores data for determining whether the acquired jackpot symbol random number is a jackpot indicating a normal symbol, a jackpot indicating a probability variation symbol A, or a jackpot indicating a probability variation symbol B. . For example, as shown in FIG. 6B, the jackpot symbol random number data D3 includes a random number that is a jackpot indicating a normal symbol, a random number that is a jackpot indicating a probability variation A, and a random number that is a jackpot indicating a probability variation symbol B. , Respectively. Specifically, the range of the value of the jackpot symbol random number is 0-9. In the jackpot symbol random number data D3, four random numbers representing the jackpot indicating the normal symbol are set, and the winning probability of the jackpot indicating the normal symbol is 4/10 (= 2/5). The jackpot symbol random number data D3 has four jackpot random numbers indicating the probability variation symbol A, and the jackpot probability indicating the probability variation symbol A is 4/10 (= 2/5). In the jackpot symbol random number data D3, two random numbers that are jackpots indicating the probability variation symbol B are set, and the winning probability of the jackpot symbol indicating the probability variation symbol B is 2/10 (= 1/5).

  The reach random number data D4 stores data for determining whether the acquired reach random number is an effect indicating the presence of reach or an effect indicating no reach. Here, the “reach effect” indicates an effect performed on the image display unit 21 or the like in order to make the player expect a big hit. For example, as shown in FIG. 6C, the reach random number data D4 describes a random number value that represents the presence of reach and a random value that represents the effect of no reach. Specifically, the range of reach random numbers is 0 to 249. In the reach random number data D4, 22 random number values indicating the presence of reach are set, and the rate of the effect indicating reach is 22/250 (= 11/125). Further, in the reach random number data D4, 228 random number values representing the effect of no reach are set, and the rate of the effect indicating reach is 228/250 (= 114/125).

  The winning random number data D5 stores data for determining whether or not the acquired winning random number is a hit in the normal symbol lottery. For example, as shown in FIG. 6D, the random number data D5 describes a random value that is a hit in the normal symbol lottery. Specifically, the range of the value of the hit random number is 0-9. The winning random number data D5 has nine winning random numbers set in the normal symbol lottery, and the winning rate is 9/10.

  The number-of-holds data D6 stores data indicating the number of times that the special symbol lottery is on hold (special symbol lottery hold number U) and the number of times that the normal symbol lottery is on hold (normal symbol lottery hold number G). Has been.

  In the lottery result random number data D7, data indicating each random number determined by the special symbol lottery, the normal symbol lottery, or the like is stored in the time series of the lottery.

  The fluctuation command data D8 stores data indicating a fluctuation start command and a fluctuation stop command including setting information set by the jackpot determination process and the fluctuation pattern selection process.

  The variation time data D9 stores data indicating a special symbol variation time for performing a special symbol lottery and a normal symbol variation time for performing a normal symbol lottery.

  The table data D10 stores data for determining in what symbol variation pattern the acquired variation pattern random number produces. For example, as shown in FIG. 7A to FIG. 7D, the table data D10 includes random values that produce an effect that varies in design with a variation pattern A (10 seconds), and randomness that produces an effect that varies in design with a variation pattern B (30 seconds). A numerical value, a random number that produces an effect that varies in design with a variation pattern C (60 seconds), a random value that produces an effect that varies in design with a variation pattern D (90 seconds), and an effect that varies in design with a variation pattern E (120 seconds) Each random value to be performed is described. Specifically, the range of the value of the fluctuation pattern random number is 0 to 249. Then, as shown in FIG. 7A, in the table data D10, when the gaming machine 1 is a big hit, 25 random numbers that are produced by changing the design with the change pattern B are set, and the probability of the change pattern B being 25/250 It has become. In the table data D10, 60 random numbers that are produced by changing the pattern with the change pattern C when the gaming machine 1 is a big hit are set, and the probability of the change pattern C being 60/250. In the table data D10, 110 random numbers that are produced by changing the pattern in the variation pattern D when the gaming machine 1 is a big hit are set, and the probability of the variation pattern D being 110/250. In the table data D10, 55 random numbers that are produced by changing the pattern with the change pattern E when the gaming machine 1 is a big hit are set, and the probability of the change pattern E being 55/250.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 7B, the table data D10 is set with 250 random values that are produced by varying the design with the variation pattern C when the gaming machine 1 hits the jackpot and enters the latent gaming state. Is 250/250 (= 100%).

  Further, as shown in FIG. 7C, the table data D10 is set with 110 random numbers that are produced by changing the design with the change pattern B when the gaming machine 1 performs the reach effect, and the probability of the change pattern B being 110 / 250. In the table data D10, when the gaming machine 1 performs a reach effect, 60 random numbers that are generated by changing the pattern with the change patterns C and D are set, and the probability of the change patterns C and D being 60/250 respectively. ing. In the table data D10, 20 random numbers that are produced by changing the design with the change pattern E when the gaming machine 1 performs the reach effect are set, and the probability of the change pattern E being 20/250.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 7D, the table data D10 has 250 random number values that are produced by changing the design with the change pattern A when the gaming machine 1 is disconnected, and the probability of the change pattern A being 250 / 250 (= 100%).

  In the variation pattern data D11, data indicating variation pattern random numbers determined in the process of setting the symbol variation pattern to be produced is stored in order of the setting time series.

  The game state data D12 stores data indicating the game state (the normal game state, the probability variation game state, the short-time game state, the latent game state, etc.) currently set in the gaming machine 1.

  The symbol setting data D13 stores data indicating each symbol (special symbol, normal symbol) which is determined by special symbol lottery, normal symbol lottery, or the like, and is displayed after being variably displayed. In the symbol data D14, data indicating each symbol displayed on the special symbol display 31 is stored.

  The number-of-opening data D15 stores data indicating the number of times that the special winning opening 28 is in an open state (opening number J). The open round number data D16 stores data indicating the number of rounds (open round number R) at which the special winning opening 28 is opened.

  The hit command data D17 is a jackpot command indicating setting information related to the jackpot operation control for controlling the opening operation or the like of the jackpot 28, or setting information related to the jackpot operation control for controlling the opening / closing operation of the blade portion of the electric tulip 26. The data indicating the small hit command indicating is stored respectively.

  The winning number data D18 stores data indicating the number of game balls (winning number C) won in the big winning opening 28.

  The opening time data D19 stores data indicating the opening time of the special winning opening 28.

  The maximum value data D20 stores data indicating the maximum value Tmax used in the initial loop process started from the time when the gaming machine 1 is turned on. Specifically, the maximum value Tmax is a hardware random number acquired from the random number circuit 104 when the gaming machine 1 is turned on.

  The timer value data D21 stores data indicating a timer value T used as a temporary variable in the initial loop process started from the time when the gaming machine 1 is turned on.

  Next, details of processing performed in the main control unit 100 will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing executed in the main control unit 100. FIG. 9 is a subroutine showing the detailed operation of the start port switch process in step S706 of FIG. FIG. 10 is a subroutine showing the detailed operation of the gate switch process in step S707 of FIG. FIG. 11 is a subroutine showing the detailed operation of the special symbol process in step S708 of FIG. FIG. 12 is a subroutine showing the detailed operation of the jackpot determination process in step S745 of FIG. FIG. 13 is a subroutine showing the detailed operation of the variation pattern selection process in step S746 of FIG. FIG. 14 is a subroutine showing the detailed operation of the stop process in step S754 of FIG. FIG. 15 is a subroutine showing the detailed operation of the probability-changing gaming state setting process in step S807 of FIG. FIG. 16 is a subroutine showing the detailed operation of the normal symbol processing in step S709 of FIG. FIG. 17 is a subroutine showing a detailed operation of a part of the big winning opening process in step S710 of FIG. FIG. 18 is a subroutine showing the detailed operation of the remaining portion of the big winning opening process in step S710 of FIG. FIG. 19 is a subroutine showing the detailed operation of the small hit process in step S865 of FIG. FIG. 20 is a subroutine showing the detailed operation of the electric tulip process in step S711 of FIG. In the flowcharts shown in FIGS. 8 to 20, detailed description of other processes not directly related to the present invention is omitted. 8 to 20 and the following description, each step executed by the main control unit 100 is abbreviated as “S”.

  When the power of the gaming machine 1 is turned on, each CPU of the gaming machine 1 executes a startup program stored in a boot ROM (not shown), thereby initializing each unit such as a memory. Then, the program stored in each ROM is read into the RAM, and the execution of the program is started by each CPU. For example, the CPU 101 of the main control unit 100 executes a startup program stored in a boot ROM (not shown), and thereby each unit such as the RAM 103 is initialized. Then, the program stored in the ROM 102 is read into the RAM 103, and the CPU 101 starts executing the program. The flowchart shown in FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing processing performed after the above processing is completed.

  In FIG. 8, the main control unit 100 acquires the hardware random number generated by the random number circuit 104 as the maximum value Tmax (step S701), and proceeds to the next step. For example, when the random number circuit 104 includes a 16-bit counter, the random number circuit 104 generates a random value as a hardware random number in the range of 0 to 65535. That is, the CPU 101 can acquire a random value generated in the range of 0 to 65535 from the random number circuit 104 as the maximum value Tmax when the gaming machine 1 is powered on. Then, the CPU 101 updates the maximum value data D20 using the hardware random number (maximum value Tmax) acquired from the random number circuit 104.

  Next, the main control unit 100 initializes a timer value T used as a temporary variable in the flowchart to 0 (step S702), and proceeds to the next step. For example, the main control unit 100 updates the timer value data D21 using the timer value T = 0 initialized in step S702.

  Next, the main control unit 100 refers to the maximum value data D20 and the timer value data D21 to determine whether or not the timer value T has reached the maximum value Tmax (step S703). When the timer value T reaches the maximum value Tmax, the main control unit 100 proceeds to the next step S705. On the other hand, when the timer value T has not reached the maximum value Tmax, the main control unit 100 proceeds to the next step S704.

  In step S704, the main control unit 100 sets 1 to the timer value T to set a new timer value T, and returns to step S703 to repeat the process. For example, the main control unit 100 adds 1 to the timer value T stored in the timer value data D21, and updates the timer value data D21 using the timer value T after the addition.

  Here, in the processing of steps S701 to S704, the number of times that steps S703 and S704 are executed in a loop changes according to the maximum value Tmax. That is, according to the value of the maximum value Tmax, the time from the execution of step S701 until the execution of step S705 described later is changed.

  In step S705, the main control unit 100 updates various random numbers used in the subsequent processing by software processing, and proceeds to the next step. For example, the main control unit 100 determines the jackpot random number (for example, 0 to 299), the jackpot symbol random number (for example, 0 to 9), the reach random number (for example, 0 to 249), and the winning random number that are stored in the random number data D1. 1 is added to each (for example, 0 to 9) and updated, and the random number data D1 is updated using the updated random number. The main control unit 100 returns the random number to 0 and updates it when each random number is the maximum value. In addition, when the big hit random number makes a round (for example, when the big hit random number starts from 100 and goes to 99), the main control unit 100 uses the initial value random number (for example, 0 to 299) stored in the random number data D1. Referring to the initial value random number, the jackpot random number is updated.

  Next, the main control unit 100 monitors the state of the start port switch 111 and executes processing for special symbol lottery when the start port switch 111 is turned on. Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 9, the detailed operation of the start port switch process performed in step S706 will be described.

  In FIG. 9, the main control unit 100 determines whether or not a game ball has won the start opening 25 and the start opening switch 111 is turned on (step S721). Then, when the start port switch 111 is turned on, the main control unit 100 proceeds to the next step S722. On the other hand, when the start port switch 111 is off, the main control unit 100 ends the processing by the subroutine.

  In step S722, the main control unit 100 refers to the hold count data D6 and determines whether or not the special symbol lottery hold count U is less than the upper limit value Umax. For example, the main control unit 100 sets the upper limit value Umax to 4 times. And the main control part 100 advances a process to following step S723, when the special symbol lottery reservation frequency U is less than the upper limit Umax. On the other hand, when the special symbol lottery suspension count U is equal to or greater than the upper limit value Umax, the main control unit 100 ends the processing by the subroutine.

  In step S723, the main control unit 100 adds 1 to the special symbol lottery holding number U and updates it, and proceeds to the next step. For example, the main control unit 100 adds 1 to the special symbol lottery hold count U stored in the hold count data D6, and updates the hold count data D6 using the added special symbol lottery hold count U.

  Next, the main control unit 100 acquires random numbers for the lottery by the current winning, stores them in the lottery result random number data D7 in chronological order (step S724), and ends the processing by the subroutine. Here, the main control unit 100 refers to the random number data D1 and acquires a random number for the special symbol lottery (a big hit random number, a big hit symbol random number, a reach random number) among the random numbers updated in step S705. Stored in the lottery result random number data D7. If random numbers for the special symbol lottery are already stored in the lottery result random number data D7 in accordance with the past winnings, the random numbers are stored in the lottery result random number data D7 in the order of winning. As will be apparent from the following description, the result of the special symbol lottery is determined by each random number acquired in step S724.

  Returning to FIG. 8, after the start port switch process in step S <b> 706, the main control unit 100 monitors the state of the gate switch 113, and performs the normal symbol lottery process when the gate switch 113 is turned on. Execute (Step S707). Hereinafter, the detailed operation of the gate switch process performed in step S707 will be described with reference to FIG.

  In FIG. 10, the main control unit 100 determines whether or not the game ball has passed through the gate 27 and the gate switch 113 is turned on (step S731). Then, when the gate switch 113 is turned on, the main control unit 100 proceeds to the next step S732. On the other hand, when the gate switch 113 is off, the main control unit 100 ends the processing by the subroutine.

  In step S732, the main control unit 100 refers to the holding number data D6 and determines whether or not the normal symbol lottery holding number G is less than the upper limit value Gmax. For example, the main control unit 100 sets the upper limit value Gmax to 4 times. And the main control part 100 advances a process to following step S733, when the normal symbol lottery reservation frequency | count G is less than upper limit Gmax. On the other hand, when the normal symbol lottery holding number G is equal to or greater than the upper limit Gmax, the main control unit 100 ends the processing by the subroutine.

  In step S733, the main control unit 100 updates the normal symbol lottery holding number G by adding 1 and advances the processing to the next step. For example, the main control unit 100 adds 1 to the normal symbol lottery hold count G stored in the hold count data D6, and updates the hold count data D6 using the added normal symbol lottery hold count G.

  Next, the main control unit 100 acquires a random number for the lottery by the current winning, stores it in the lottery result random number data D7 (step S734), and ends the processing by the subroutine. Here, the main control unit 100 refers to the random number data D1, obtains a random number (per random number) for the normal symbol lottery from among the random numbers updated in step S705, and stores it in the lottery result random number data D7. To do. As will be described later, the result of the normal symbol lottery is determined by the random number acquired in step S734.

  Returning to FIG. 8, after the gate switch process in step S707, the main control unit 100 performs a special symbol process (step S708). Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 11, the detailed operation of the special symbol process performed in step S708 will be described.

  In FIG. 11, the main control unit 100 determines whether or not the current state of the gaming machine 1 is a big hit (a special symbol lottery win) (step S741). For example, in the case of a jackpot, a special symbol representing some kind of jackpot has already been selected, and the special symbol is displayed on the special symbol display 31 and stopped. If the main control unit 100 is not in the big hit, the process proceeds to the next step S742. On the other hand, if the main control unit 100 is in a big hit, the main control unit 100 ends the processing by the subroutine. Hereinafter, an example of “win” set in the gaming machine 1 will be described.

  “Big hit” includes “long win” in which a long hit time is expected to be paid out and a large amount of game balls can be paid out, and “short hit” in which a big hit game time is relatively short. For example, in the “long win”, a round that is maintained until the open state of the big winning opening 28 satisfies a predetermined condition (for example, 30 seconds have passed or 10 game balls have been won) is repeated, for example, 15 times. For “short win”, the above round at the special winning opening 28 is repeated twice, for example.

  In addition, the “long win” includes a jackpot called “15 round probabilities per hit” that generates both a probability change (probability change) gaming state and a time reduction (short time) game state after the end of the jackpot game, There is a jackpot called “ordinary jackpot”, in which only the short-time gaming state is generated after the end and the probability variation gaming state is not generated. The “short win” is a so-called “two-round probable hit”, which is a so-called “two-round probable hit” in which a probabilistic gaming state is generated after the jackpot game ends and a short-time gaming state is not generated.

  In addition, there are “small hit” and “out of place” as states when the big hit is not won. “Small Win” is a “hit” in which the winning opening 28 is opened twice, for example, in the same manner as “2 Round Profit Change Win”, but neither the probability change game state nor the short-time game state occurs. Specifically, the number of times of opening the large winning opening 28 in one operation in “small win” is the number of open rounds R in which the large winning opening 28 is continuously operated in correspondence with “per two-round probability change” (that is, 2 Times). As a result, the opening pattern of the big prize opening 28 when the big winning opening 28 is continuously operated for two rounds corresponding to “two rounds of probable change” and when the big winning opening 28 is activated once when the small win is won. The opening pattern of the special winning opening 28 is similar. Further, the “outage” is a so-called “outage” that does not cause any of the above-described gaming states advantageous to the player.

  In step S742, the main control unit 100 refers to the change command data D8 and determines whether or not the current state of the gaming machine 1 is changing special symbols. For example, when the fluctuation command data D8 indicates that the special symbol is changing, the main control unit 100 determines that the current state of the gaming machine 1 is changing the special symbol. Then, when the current state of the gaming machine 1 is not changing the special symbol, the main control unit 100 advances the process to the next step S743. On the other hand, when the current state of the gaming machine 1 is in the special symbol fluctuation, the main control unit 100 proceeds to the next step S750.

  In step S743, the main control unit 100 refers to the holding number data D6 and determines whether or not the special symbol lottery holding number U is 1 or more. And the main control part 100 advances a process to following step S744, when the special symbol lottery holding | maintenance count U is 1 or more. On the other hand, when the special symbol lottery suspension count U is 0, the main control unit 100 means that there is no winning for starting the special symbol lottery, and thus the processing by the subroutine is terminated.

  In step S744, the main control unit 100 updates by subtracting 1 from the special symbol lottery holding number U, and proceeds to the next step. For example, the main control unit 100 subtracts 1 from the special symbol lottery hold count U stored in the hold count data D6, and updates the hold count data D6 using the subtracted special symbol lottery hold count U.

  Next, the main control unit 100 performs a jackpot determination process (step S745), and proceeds to the next step. Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 12, the jackpot determination process performed in step S745 will be described.

  In FIG. 12, the main control unit 100 refers to the jackpot random number that has been acquired in step S724 and stored in the lottery result random number data D7 and has the longest time since winning, It is determined whether or not a special symbol lottery has been won (step S761). For example, the main control unit 100 refers to the random value described in the jackpot random number data D2, and determines whether the jackpot random number for which the longest time has elapsed since winning a prize corresponds to any random number value. . Then, the main control unit 100 deletes the data indicating the determined jackpot random number from the lottery result random number data D7. Next, when the determination in step S761 is a big hit (Yes in step S762), the main control unit 100 advances the process to the next step S763. In addition, when the determination in step S761 is a small hit (Yes in step S769), the main control unit 100 advances the process to the next step S770. On the other hand, if the determination in step S761 is neither big win nor small win (ie, a loss) (no in steps S762 and S769), the main control unit 100 proceeds to the next step S771.

  In step S763, the main control unit 100 refers to the jackpot symbol random number that has been acquired in step S724 and stored in the lottery result random number data D7 and has the longest time since winning. Then, the type that won a big prize in the special symbol lottery is determined. For example, the main control unit 100 refers to the random number value described in the jackpot symbol random number data D3 and determines whether the jackpot symbol random number for which the longest time has elapsed since winning a prize corresponds to any random number value. judge. Then, the main control unit 100 deletes the data indicating the determined jackpot symbol random number from the lottery result random number data D7. Next, when the determination in step S763 is the probability variation symbol A (Yes in step S764), the main control unit 100 proceeds to the next step S765. Further, when the determination in step S763 is the probability variation symbol B (Yes in step S766), the main control unit 100 advances the process to the next step S767. On the other hand, when the determination in step S763 is neither the probability variation symbol A nor the probability variation symbol B (that is, normal symbol) (No in steps S764 and S766), the main control unit 100 proceeds to the next step S768.

  After the above processing, the main control unit 100 stores (sets) the symbol corresponding to the determination result in the symbol setting data D13 as setting information, and ends the processing by the subroutine. For example, in step S765, the main control unit 100 stores the probability variation symbol A that represents a jackpot with a probability variation in the symbol setting data D13 as setting information. In step S767, the main control unit 100 stores the probability variation symbol B representing the jackpot with probability variation in the symbol setting data D13 as setting information. In step S768, the main control unit 100 stores, as setting information, the normal symbol representing the jackpot without the probability fluctuation in the symbol setting data D13. In step S770, the main control unit 100 stores, in the symbol setting data D13, as a setting information, a small hit symbol indicating that it is a hit without any probability fluctuation or time reduction. In step S771, the main control unit 100 stores, in the symbol setting data D13, the off symbol representing that the special symbol lottery has been lost as setting information.

  More specifically, as shown in FIG. 21, the normal symbol is a symbol representing a big hit without probability fluctuation, and indicates that the gaming machine 1 is in a short-time gaming state. The probability variation symbol A is a symbol representing a jackpot with a probability variation, and indicates that the gaming machine 1 is in a probability variation gaming state. The probability variation symbol B is a symbol representing a jackpot with probability variation, and indicates that the gaming machine 1 is in a probability variation gaming state or a latent gaming state. On the other hand, the small hit symbol is a symbol indicating that it is a hit without any probability fluctuation and time reduction, and indicates that the gaming machine 1 is in the small hit state described above. The lost symbol is a symbol indicating that the player has lost the special symbol lottery, and indicates that the gaming machine 1 is not in a gaming state advantageous to the player.

  Returning to FIG. 11, after the jackpot determination process in step S745, the main control unit 100 performs a variation pattern selection process (step S746), and proceeds to the next step. Hereinafter, the variation pattern determination process performed in step S746 will be described with reference to FIG.

  In FIG. 13, the main control unit 100 refers to the random number data D1 and acquires the fluctuation pattern random number updated in step S715 (see FIG. 8) described later (step S781). Next, the main control unit 100 is set with whether or not it is determined to be a big win (step S782), whether or not it is determined to be a big win (step S787), and the probability variation symbol B in the big hit determination process at step S745. Whether or not (step S783) is determined. Then, the main control unit 100 determines that the jackpot determination process in step S745 is determined to be a jackpot and the probability variation symbol B is not set (that is, the probability variation symbol A or the normal symbol is set) (Yes in step S782, step S782). No in S783), the process proceeds to the next step S784. Further, the main control unit 100 determines in the jackpot determination process in the above step S745 that the jackpot symbol B is determined and the probability variation symbol B is set (steps S782 and S783 are both Yes), or if the jackpot determination is determined ( In step S787, Yes), the process proceeds to the next step S788. On the other hand, when it is determined in the jackpot determination process in step S745 that neither the big jackpot nor the small hit is made (both steps S782 and S787 are No), the main control unit 100 advances the process to the next step S789.

  In step S789, the main control unit 100 refers to the reach random number that has been acquired in step S724 and stored in the lottery result random number data D7, and has reached the longest time since winning, It is determined whether or not reach is reached (step S789). For example, the main control unit 100 refers to the random number value described in the reach random number data D4 to determine which random number value corresponds to the reach random number for which the longest time has elapsed since winning a prize. Then, the main control unit 100 erases the data indicating the determined reach random number from the lottery result random number data D7. Next, if the determination in step S789 is that there is a reach (Yes in step S790), the main control unit 100 advances the process to the next step S791. Further, when the determination in step S789 is no reach (No in step S790), the main control unit 100 advances the process to the next step S792.

  After the above processing, the main control unit 100 selects a table to be used for variation pattern random number determination from the table data D10 according to the determination result, and proceeds to the next step S785. For example, in step S784, the main control unit 100 selects a jackpot table (see FIG. 7A) and performs a variation pattern random number determination (step S785). In step S788, the main control unit 100 selects a latent table (see FIG. 7B) and performs a variation pattern random number determination (step S785). In step S791, the main control unit 100 selects a reach table (see FIG. 7C) and performs a variation pattern random number determination (step S785). In step S792, the main control unit 100 selects a loss table (see FIG. 7D) and performs a variation pattern random number determination (step S785).

  In step S785, the main control unit 100 determines a variation pattern using the variation pattern random number acquired in step S781. For example, the main control unit 100 refers to the random number values described in the currently selected table (see FIGS. 7A to 7D) and determines which random number value the variation pattern random number corresponds to. Next, the main control unit 100 stores (sets) the setting information indicating the variation pattern associated with the variation pattern random number in the variation pattern data D11 (step S786), and ends the processing by the subroutine.

  Returning to FIG. 11, after the variation pattern selection process in step S746, the main control unit 100 generates a variation start command including the setting information set by the jackpot determination process and the variation pattern selection process, and starts the variation start. The variable command data D8 is updated (set) using the command (step S747). For example, the variation start command includes a variation pattern (variation time) determined by other processing, a symbol (normal symbol, probability variation symbol A, probability variation symbol B, small hit symbol, off symbol), and a gaming state (normal gaming state). , Probability variation gaming state, short-time gaming state, latent gaming state) and the like are included as setting information. Next, the main control unit 100 starts display control processing for changing the special symbol and displaying it on the special symbol display 31 (FIG. 2) based on the setting information set in the variable command data D8 (step S748). ). Then, the main control unit 100 displays the special symbol variation time stored in the variation time data D9 at the variation time indicated by the variation pattern in order to perform the special symbol variation display for the variation time indicated by the variation pattern set in the setting information. Is updated, the measurement of the fluctuation time is started (step S749), and the processing by the subroutine is finished. The change start command set in step S747 is also transmitted to the effect control unit 400 in the output process in step S713 described later.

  On the other hand, when it is determined in step S742 that the current state of the gaming machine 1 is in a special symbol variation, the main control unit 100 determines whether or not the special symbol variation time has ended (step S750). For example, the main control unit 100 advances the processing to the next step S751 when the variation time for which counting has been started from step S749 has reached the special symbol variation time stored in the variation time data D9. On the other hand, when the variation time has not reached the special symbol variation time stored in the variation time data D9, the special control variation display is continued, and the main control unit 100 ends the processing by the subroutine.

  In step S751, the main control unit 100 generates a change stop command and updates (sets) the change command data D8 using the change stop command. Next, the main control unit 100 ends the special symbol variation display, displays the special symbol stored in the symbol setting data D13 on the special symbol display 31, and stops it (step S752). Then, the main control unit 100 initializes and resets the variation time that has been started from step S749 (step S753), and proceeds to the next step. Note that the change stop command set in step S751 is also transmitted to the effect control unit 400 in the output process in step S713 described later.

  Next, the main control unit 100 performs a stop process (step S754), and ends the process by the subroutine. Hereinafter, the stop process performed in step S754 will be described with reference to FIG.

  In FIG. 14, the main control unit 100 determines the special symbol lottery result in the special symbol variation display process in which the variation is stopped in step S752. Then, when the special symbol lottery result is neither big win nor small win (No in step S801), the main control unit 100 advances the processing to the next step S802. Moreover, the main control part 100 advances a process to following step S807, when the said special symbol lottery result is a big win (both step S801 and S806 are No). Further, when the special symbol lottery result is a small hit (No in step S801, Yes in step S806), the main control unit 100 advances the processing to the next step S810.

  In step S802, the main control unit 100 refers to the release count data D15 and determines whether the release count J is zero. If the number of times of opening is not 0, the main control unit 100 advances the process to the next step S803. On the other hand, when the number of times of opening is 0, the main control unit 100 ends the process by the subroutine.

  In step S803, the main control unit 100 updates the release count J by subtracting 1 from the release count J stored in the release count data D15, and updates the release count data D15 using the updated release count J. To do. Then, the main control unit 100 refers to the number-of-releases data D15 and determines again whether or not the number of times J is released (step S804). Then, when the number of times of opening is 0, the main control unit 100 proceeds to the next step S805. On the other hand, when the number of times of opening is not 0, the main control unit 100 ends the processing by the subroutine.

  In step S805, the main control unit 100 sets the gaming state of the gaming machine 1 to a normal gaming state (a normal gaming state in which neither probability fluctuation nor time reduction), and game state data D12 is set as data indicating the normal gaming state. The process is updated and the processing according to the subroutine ends.

  When the special symbol lottery result is a big hit (Yes in Step S801, No in Step S806), the main control unit 100 performs a probability variation gaming state setting process (Step S807), and proceeds to the next step. Hereinafter, the probability variation gaming state setting process performed in step S807 will be described with reference to FIG.

  In FIG. 15, the main control unit 100 refers to the symbol setting data D13, and when the probability variation symbol A is set in the symbol setting data D13 (Yes in step S821), the main control unit 100 proceeds to the next step S822. Further, when a symbol (that is, a normal symbol) that is neither the probability variation symbol A nor the probability variation symbol B is set in the symbol setting data D13 (No in steps S821 and S823), the main control unit 100 performs the next step S826. Proceed with the process. Further, when the probability variation symbol B is set in the symbol setting data D13 (No in step S821, Yes in step S823), the main control unit 100 refers to the gaming state data D12 and the gaming state of the gaming machine 1 is normal. It is determined whether or not the game state is set (step S824). Then, when the gaming state of the gaming machine 1 is the normal gaming state, the main control unit 100 advances the processing to the next step S825. On the other hand, when the gaming state of the gaming machine 1 is not the normal gaming state, the main control unit 100 advances the processing to the next step S822.

  After the above processing, the main control unit 100 sets the gaming machine 1 to the gaming state according to the determination result, and updates the gaming state data D12 with data indicating the gaming state. For example, in step S822, the main control unit 100 sets the gaming state of the gaming machine 1 to the probability-changing gaming state, updates the gaming state data D12 with data indicating the probability-changing gaming state, and ends the processing by the subroutine. Here, the probability variation gaming state is a gaming state in which the winning probability is shifted with a high probability (the probability is changed) in the special symbol lottery.

  In step S826, the main control unit 100 sets the gaming state of the gaming machine 1 to the short-time gaming state, and updates the gaming state data D12 to data indicating the short-time gaming state. Then, the main control unit 100 sets the number of times of opening J to an initial value Js (for example, Js = 100), updates the number of times of opening data D15 using the initial value Js (step S827), and performs processing by the subroutine. finish. Here, the short-time gaming state is a gaming state in which the variation time of the special symbol is shortened (hereinafter, the time is shortened). In the short-time gaming state, the number J of opening times is set to the initial value Js, so that the short-time gaming state ends when the special winning opening 28 is opened Js times.

  In step S825, the main control unit 100 sets the gaming state of the gaming machine 1 to the latent gaming state, updates the gaming state data D12 with data indicating the latent gaming state, and ends the processing by the subroutine. Here, the latent game state is a game state in which the winning probability is shifted to a high probability (probability is changed) in the special symbol lottery as in the probability variation game state. However, the mode of informing that the latent gaming state is a latent gaming state cannot be easily distinguished by the player.

  For example, an accessory that operates when shifting to a gaming state in which the probability is changed easily collects the player's line of sight. Increased interest in moving objects. However, if the mode of notifying the gaming state for which the probability is changed is easily distinguishable for the player, the interest of the player in finding the difference is reduced, and the player's concentration and interest in the game are prolonged. It becomes difficult to continue. On the other hand, when the notification mode regarding the gaming state with different winning conditions has the same content and the player cannot determine which of the gaming states is set, the player can use the game as a criterion for predicting the gaming state. Cannot be obtained from machine 1. Therefore, there is less pleasure for the player to predict which gaming state with different winning conditions is set. Therefore, the latent game state is directed to find out the difference by making the player indistinguishable from distinguishing the mode in which the latent game state is a latent game state. Can be continued for a long time.

  Returning to FIG. 14, after the probability change gaming state setting process in step S807, the main control unit 100 generates a jackpot command including setting information related to the jackpot process and the like, and uses the jackpot command to store the hit command data D17. Update (set) (step S808). Then, the main control unit 100 starts jackpot operation control (step S809), and ends the processing by the subroutine. Here, the jackpot operation control refers to control such as opening operation of the big prize opening 28 and opening / closing operation (electric Chu support) of the blade portion of the electric tulip 26. The jackpot operation control based on the probability variation gaming state, the latent gaming state, and the short-time gaming state described above is controlled by different operations. The jackpot command set in step S808 is also transmitted to the effect control unit 400 in the output process in step S713 described later.

  If the special symbol lottery result is a small hit (both Yes in steps S801 and S806), the main control unit 100 generates a small hit command including setting information related to the small hit processing and the like, and the small hit command Is used to update (set) the hit command data D17 (step S810). Then, the main control unit 100 starts small hitting operation control (step S811), and ends the processing by the subroutine. Here, the small hitting operation control indicates control such as opening operation of the big prize opening 28 and opening / closing operation (electrical chew support) of the blade portion of the electric tulip 26. The small hitting operation control is performed by an operation different from the above-described big hitting operation control. The small hit command set in step S810 is also transmitted to the effect control unit 400 in the output process in step S713 described later.

  Returning to FIG. 8, after the special symbol process in step S708, the main control unit 100 performs a normal symbol process (step S709). Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 16, the detailed operation of the normal symbol processing performed in step S709 will be described.

  In FIG. 16, the main control unit 100 determines whether or not the current state of the gaming machine 1 is in an auxiliary game (operation corresponding to the winning of the normal symbol lottery) (step S831). Then, when the current state of the gaming machine 1 is not in the auxiliary game, the main control unit 100 advances the processing to the next step S832. On the other hand, when the current state of the gaming machine 1 is in an auxiliary game, the main control unit 100 has already selected some normal symbols, and the normal symbols are displayed on the normal symbol display 33 and stopped. Therefore, the processing by the subroutine is finished.

  In step S832, the main control unit 100 determines whether or not the current state of the gaming machine 1 is changing the normal symbol. If the current state of the gaming machine 1 is not normally changing, the main control unit 100 proceeds to the next step S833. On the other hand, when the current state of the gaming machine 1 is changing the normal symbol, the main control unit 100 advances the processing to the next step S844.

  In step S833, the main control unit 100 refers to the number-of-holds data D6 to determine whether the normal symbol lottery number of times G is 1 or more. And the main control part 100 advances a process to following step S834, when the normal symbol lottery reservation frequency | count G is 1 or more. On the other hand, when the normal symbol lottery holding number G is 0, the main control unit 100 means that there is no winning for starting the normal symbol lottery, and thus the processing by the subroutine is finished.

  In step S834, the main control unit 100 updates the normal symbol lottery holding number G by subtracting 1 and advances the processing to the next step. For example, the main control unit 100 subtracts 1 from the normal symbol lottery hold count G stored in the hold count data D6, and updates the hold count data D6 using the subtracted normal symbol lottery hold count G.

  Next, the main control unit 100 obtains a winning random number that has been acquired in step S734 (see FIG. 10) and stored in the lottery result random number data D7 for which the longest time has elapsed since winning a prize. Referring to it, it is determined whether or not the normal symbol lottery is won (step S835). For example, the main control unit 100 refers to the random number value described in the winning random number data D5 and determines whether or not the winning random number for which the longest time has elapsed since winning a prize corresponds to the random number value. . Then, the main control unit 100 deletes the data indicating the determined winning random number from the lottery result random number data D7. Next, when the determination in step S835 is correct (Yes in step S836), the main control unit 100 advances the process to the next step S837. If the determination in step S835 is out of order (No in step S836), the main control unit 100 advances the process to the next step S838.

  After the above processing, the main control unit 100 stores (sets) the symbol corresponding to the determination result in the symbol setting data D13 as setting information, and proceeds to the next step S839. For example, in step S837, the main control unit 100 stores the winning symbol representing that the normal symbol lottery is won in the symbol setting data D13 as setting information. Further, in step S838, the main control unit 100 stores, in the symbol setting data D13, as a setting information, a missing symbol indicating that the symbol has been shifted to the normal symbol lottery.

  In step S839, the main control unit 100 refers to the gaming state data D12 and determines whether or not the current state of the gaming machine 1 corresponds to a probability-change gaming state or a short-time gaming state. When the current state of the gaming machine 1 corresponds to the probability variation gaming state or the short-time gaming state, the main control unit 100 sets the normal symbol variation time stored in the variation time data D9 as the variation time T1 (for example, T1 = 3). Second) (step S840), and the process proceeds to the next step S842. On the other hand, when the current state of the gaming machine 1 does not correspond to the probability variation gaming state or the short-time gaming state, the main control unit 100 sets the normal symbol variation time stored in the variation time data D9 as the variation time T2 (T1 <T2; for example, , T2 = 29 seconds) (step S841), and the process proceeds to the next step S842.

  In step S842, the main control unit 100 starts display control processing for changing the normal symbol based on the symbol set in the symbol setting data D13 and displaying it on the normal symbol display 33 (FIG. 2). Then, the main control unit 100 starts measuring the fluctuation time in order to display the normal symbol fluctuation display for the normal symbol fluctuation time stored in the fluctuation time data D9 (step S843), and ends the processing by the subroutine. .

  On the other hand, when it is determined in step S832 that the current state of the gaming machine 1 is in the normal symbol variation state, the main control unit 100 determines whether or not the normal symbol variation time has ended (step S844). For example, the main control unit 100 advances the process to the next step S845 when the variation time for which counting has been started from step S843 has reached the normal symbol variation time stored in the variation time data D9. On the other hand, when the variation time has not reached the normal symbol variation time stored in the variation time data D9, the normal symbol variation display is continued, and the main control unit 100 ends the processing by the subroutine.

  In step S845, the main control unit 100 ends the normal symbol variation display, displays the normal symbol stored in the symbol setting data D13 on the normal symbol display 33, and stops it. Then, the main control unit 100 initializes and resets the variation time that has been started from step S843 (step S846), and proceeds to the next step.

  Next, the main control unit 100 determines a normal symbol lottery result in the normal symbol variation display process in which the variation is stopped in step S845 (step S847). Then, if the normal symbol lottery result is a win, the main control unit 100 starts operation control of the auxiliary game (step S848), and ends the processing by the subroutine. On the other hand, if the normal symbol lottery result is out of place, the main control unit 100 ends the processing by the subroutine.

  Returning to FIG. 8, after the normal symbol process in step S709, the main control unit 100 performs a big prize opening process (step S710). Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 17 and FIG. 18, the detailed operation of the special winning a prize opening process performed in step S710 will be described.

  17 and 18, the main control unit 100 refers to the hit command data D17 and determines whether or not the current state of the gaming machine 1 is a big hit (that is, during a big hit operation control) (step S851). , And whether or not the current state of the gaming machine 1 is a small hit (ie, during a small hit operation control) (step S864). Then, when the current state of the gaming machine 1 is a big hit (Yes in Step S851), the main control unit 100 advances the processing to the next Step S852. In addition, when the current state of the gaming machine 1 is a small hit (No in step S851, Yes in step S864), the main control unit 100 proceeds to the next step S865. On the other hand, when the current state of the gaming machine 1 is neither big win nor small win (both No in step S851 and step S864), the main control unit 100 ends the processing by the subroutine.

  In step S852, the main control unit 100 determines whether or not the current state of the gaming machine 1 is during the opening effect in the jackpot motion control started in step S809. Here, the opening effect is an effect that is performed using image display on the image display unit 21 of the gaming machine 1 immediately before the start of the jackpot game, and the player receives a prize for the game ball at the big prize opening 28. It is a thing to encourage. By this opening effect, the player can know the start timing of the jackpot gaming state. And the main control part 100 advances a process to following step S853, when it is during an opening effect. On the other hand, the main control unit 100 proceeds to the next step S866 (FIG. 18) when the opening effect is not being performed.

  In step S853, the main control unit 100 determines whether or not a preset time for a jackpot opening effect to be performed (a jackpot opening effect time) has elapsed. And the main control part 100 advances a process to the following step S854, when the jackpot opening production time passes. On the other hand, when the jackpot opening presentation time has not elapsed, the main control unit 100 ends the processing by the subroutine because the jackpot opening presentation is continued.

  In step S854, 1 is added to the open round number R stored in the open round number data D16 to update the open round number R, and the open round number data D16 is updated using the updated open round number R. . Then, the main control unit 100 drives the special prize opening / closing part 115 to open the special prize opening 28 (step S855), and proceeds to the next step.

  Next, the main control unit 100 sets the opening state of the special winning opening 28 in advance (opening time; for example, 30 seconds for the jackpot with the probability variation symbol A or the normal symbol, and two times for the jackpot with the probability variation symbol B) In step S856, it is determined whether or not the accumulated release time has elapsed within 1.8 seconds. Next, the main control unit 100 refers to the winning number data D18 when the open state of the big winning opening 28 has not passed the opening time, and the winning number C is the maximum winning number Cmax (for example, Cmax = 9). ) It is determined whether or not the above (step S857). Then, when the winning number C is equal to or greater than the winning number maximum value Cmax, the main control unit 100 advances the processing to the next step S858. On the other hand, when the winning number C is less than the winning number maximum value Cmax, the main control unit 100 ends the processing by the subroutine. Further, when the open state of the special winning opening 28 has passed the opening time, the main control unit 100 proceeds to the next step S858 as it is.

  In step S858, the main control unit 100 drives the special winning opening / closing unit 115 to close the special winning opening 28, initializes and updates the winning number C indicated by the winning number data D18 to 0, and Proceed with the step.

  In step S859, the main control unit 100 refers to the release round number data D16, and the release round number R is the maximum number of open rounds Rmax (for example, Rmax = 15 for jackpots based on the probability variation symbol A or the normal symbol, and the probability variation symbol B). In the jackpot, it is determined whether or not Rmax = 2) has been reached. Then, when the number of open rounds R reaches the maximum number of open rounds Rmax, the main control unit 100 advances the processing to the next step S860. On the other hand, when the number R of open rounds has not reached the maximum number Rmax of open rounds, the main control unit 100 ends the processing by the subroutine.

  In step S860, the main control unit 100 sets the open round number R to 0, and updates the open round number data D16 using the open round number R set to 0. Then, the main control unit 100 starts a jackpot ending effect in the jackpot operation control (step S862), and proceeds to the next step. Here, the jackpot ending effect is an effect performed using an image display on the image display unit 21 of the gaming machine 1 at the end of the jackpot game, and notifies the player that the jackpot game state is ended. Is. With this jackpot ending effect, the player can know the end timing of the jackpot gaming state.

  Next, the main control unit 100 determines whether or not a preset time for a jackpot ending effect (a jackpot ending effect time) has elapsed (step S862). And main control part 100 advances processing to the following step S863, when jackpot ending production time passes. On the other hand, when the jackpot ending effect time has not elapsed, the main control unit 100 ends the process according to the subroutine because the jackpot ending effect is continued.

  In step S863, the main control unit 100 ends the jackpot operation control, updates the hit command data D17 using data indicating that the jackpot operation control has ended, and ends the processing by the subroutine.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S852 that the opening effect is not being performed, it is determined whether or not the special winning opening 28 is in an open state (step S866; FIG. 18). And the main control part 100 advances a process to said step S856 (FIG. 17), when the special winning opening 28 is an open state. On the other hand, the main control part 100 advances a process to said step S857, when the special winning opening 28 is a closed state.

  In step S857, the main control unit 100 determines whether or not the current state of the gaming machine 1 is during the ending effect in the jackpot motion control started in step S861. And the main control part 100 advances a process to said step S862 (FIG. 17), when it is during an ending effect. On the other hand, when the ending effect is not being performed, the main control unit 100 proceeds to the next step S868.

  In step S858, the main control unit 100 determines whether or not the current state of the gaming machine 1 is an interval time in the jackpot operation control. Here, the interval time is the time from when the special winning opening 28 is closed to the next open state (that is, the round implementation interval). If the main control unit 100 is in the interval time, the main control unit 100 proceeds to step S854 (FIG. 17). On the other hand, when the main control unit 100 is not in the interval time, the main control unit 100 ends the processing by the subroutine.

  If it is determined in step S864 that the current state of the gaming machine 1 is a small hit, the main control unit 100 performs a small hit process (step S865), and ends the process of the subroutine. Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 19, the small hit process performed in step S865 will be described.

  In FIG. 19, the main control unit 100 determines whether or not the current state of the gaming machine 1 is during the opening effect in the small hitting operation control started in step S811. Here, the opening effect is an effect performed using an image display on the image display unit 21 of the gaming machine 1 immediately before the start of the small hit game, and the player receives a prize for the game ball at the big winning opening 28. Is to encourage. By this opening effect, the player can know the start timing of the small hit gaming state. And the main control part 100 advances a process to following step S872, when it is during an opening effect. On the other hand, the main control unit 100 proceeds to the next step S880 when the opening effect is not being performed.

  In step S872, the main control unit 100 determines whether or not a preset time for performing a small hitting opening effect (small hitting opening effect time) has elapsed. And the main control part 100 advances a process to following step S873, when the small hit opening effect time passes. On the other hand, when the small hit opening effect time has not elapsed, the main control unit 100 ends the processing of the subroutine because the small hit opening effect is continued.

  In step S873, the main control unit 100 starts the operation by operating the special winning opening / closing unit 115 to open / close the large winning opening 28 with the small hit opening / closing pattern, and proceeds to the next step. Here, the number of times of opening when operating the big winning opening 28 in the small hit opening / closing pattern is the number of opening rounds R in which the big winning opening 28 is continuously operated corresponding to the big win of the probability variation symbol B processed in steps S851 to S863. (Ie, twice) is set. Then, when the winning pattern 28 is continuously operated for two rounds corresponding to the jackpot of the probable variation B, when the winning pattern 28 is won in the small win, It operates to resemble the opening pattern of the winning opening 28.

  More specifically, the law stipulates that the jackpot of the probability variation symbol B must be operated continuously for two or more rounds. In addition, it is stipulated by law that the cumulative winning time of the big winning opening 28 must be set within 1.8 seconds for the small winning of the small winning symbol. Therefore, the number of open rounds in jackpot of probability variation B is set to 2 rounds (maximum number of open rounds Rmax = 2), and the cumulative release time in 2 rounds of release is within 1.8 seconds. "Win". Further, the small hitting opening / closing pattern is set to an operation pattern in which the special winning opening 28 is opened twice within a range where the accumulated opening time in one operation is within 1.8 seconds, and the two are made similar.

  Next, the main control unit 100 determines whether or not one operation time (operation time; for example, a time during which the accumulated release time is within 1.8 seconds in two rounds) set in the small hit opening / closing pattern has elapsed. Is determined (step S874). Next, when the operation time has not elapsed, the main control unit 100 refers to the winning number data D18 and determines whether or not the winning number C is equal to or greater than the winning number maximum value Cmax (for example, Cmax = 9). (Step S875). Then, when the winning number C is equal to or greater than the winning number maximum value Cmax, the main control unit 100 proceeds to the next step S876. On the other hand, when the winning number C is less than the winning number maximum value Cmax, the main control unit 100 ends the processing by the subroutine. In addition, when the operation time has elapsed, the main control unit 100 proceeds to the next step S876 as it is.

  In step S876, the main control unit 100 ends the operation control by the small hit opening / closing pattern, closes the large winning opening 28, initializes the winning number C indicated by the winning number data D18 to 0, and proceeds to the next step. Proceed with the process.

  Next, the main control unit 100 starts a small hitting ending effect in the small hitting operation control (step S877), and proceeds to the next step. Here, the small hitting ending effect is an effect that is performed using an image display on the image display unit 21 of the gaming machine 1 at the end of the small hit game, and that the small hit game state is ended for the player. Is notified. By this small hitting ending effect, the player can know the end timing of the small hit gaming state.

  Next, the main control unit 100 determines whether or not a preset time for a small hitting ending effect (small hitting ending effect time) has elapsed (step S878). Then, when the small hitting ending effect time has elapsed, the main control unit 100 proceeds to the next step S879. On the other hand, when the small hitting ending effect time has not elapsed, the main control unit 100 ends the processing by the subroutine because the small hitting ending effect is continued.

  In step S879, the main control unit 100 ends the small hitting operation control, updates the hit command data D17 using data indicating that the small hitting operation control has ended, and ends the processing by the subroutine.

  Returning to FIG. 8, after the big prize opening process in step S710, the main control unit 100 performs an electric tulip process (step S711). Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 20, the detailed operation | movement of the electric tulip process performed by said step S711 is demonstrated.

  In FIG. 20, the main control unit 100 determines whether or not the current state of the gaming machine 1 is in an auxiliary game started in step S848 (FIG. 16) (step S891). Then, when the current state of the gaming machine 1 is an auxiliary game, the main control unit 100 advances the process to the next step S892. On the other hand, when the current state of the gaming machine 1 is not in an auxiliary game, the main control unit 100 ends the processing by the subroutine because the electric tulip 26 is not opened.

  In step S892, the main control unit 100 determines whether or not the pair of blade portions of the electric tulip 26 is in an open state (open state). And the main control part 100 advances a process to following step S897, when the electric tulip 26 is an open state. On the other hand, when the pair of blade portions of the electric tulip 26 is closed, the main control unit 100 proceeds to the next step S893.

  In step S893, the main control unit 100 refers to the game state data D12 and determines whether or not the current state of the gaming machine 1 corresponds to a probability change game state or a short-time game state. When the current state of the gaming machine 1 corresponds to the probability variation gaming state or the short-time gaming state, the main control unit 100 sets the opening time stored in the opening time data D19 to the opening time T3 (for example, T3 = 3.5). (Seconds) is updated (set) (step S896), and the process proceeds to the next step S896. On the other hand, when the current state of the gaming machine 1 does not correspond to the probability change gaming state or the short-time gaming state, the main control unit 100 sets the opening time stored in the opening time data D19 to the opening time T4 (T3> T4; for example, T4 = 0.2 seconds) (set) (step S895), and the process proceeds to the next step S896.

  In step S896, the main control unit 100 drives the electric tulip opening / closing unit 112 (see FIG. 4) to open the electric tulip 26, and proceeds to the next step.

  Next, the main control unit 100 refers to the opening time data D19 and determines whether or not the opening time of the electric tulip 26 has ended (step S897). For example, when the elapsed time from the opening state in step S896 reaches the opening time stored in the opening time data D19, the main control unit 100 advances the process to the next step S898. On the other hand, when the elapsed time has not reached the opening time stored in the opening time data D19, the main control unit 100 ends the process of the subroutine because the open state of the electric tulip 26 is continued.

  In step S898, the main control unit 100 drives the electric tulip opening / closing unit 112 so that the pair of blade portions of the electric tulip 26 is closed. And the main control part 100 complete | finishes an auxiliary | assistant game (step S899), and complete | finishes the process by the said subroutine.

  Returning to FIG. 8, after the electric tulip process in step S <b> 711, the main control unit 100 performs a prize ball process (step S <b> 712), and proceeds to the next step. For example, in the winning ball process, the main control unit 100 manages the number of game balls won in the starting port 25, the big winning port 28, and the normal winning port 29, respectively. For example, when the main control unit 100 obtains a detection signal indicating that a game ball has won from the big prize opening switch 114 to the big prize opening 28, the main control unit 100 wins a prize stored in the winning number data D18. The number of game balls in which a winning is detected is added to the number C, and the winning number data D18 is updated using the winning number C after the addition. Then, the main control unit 100 sets the number of prize balls to be paid out according to the number of game balls won in each of the start opening 25, the big winning opening 28, and the normal winning opening 29.

  Next, the main control unit 100 outputs control commands to the launch control unit 200, the payout control unit 300, and the effect control unit 400 (step S713), and proceeds to the next step. For example, the main control unit 100 outputs a control command indicating the number of payouts to the payout control unit 300 to instruct the payout control unit 300 about the number of payouts. In addition, the main control unit 100 outputs a command related to the production (for example, a variation start command, a variation stop command, a big hit command, a small hit command, etc.) to the production control unit 400, thereby determining the production contents in the gaming machine 1. .

  Next, the main control unit 100 updates the initial value random number (step S714), and proceeds to the next step. For example, the main control unit 100 updates 1 by adding 1 to an initial value random number (for example, 0 to 299) stored in the random number data D1, and updates the random number data D1 by using the updated initial value random number. .

  Next, the main control unit 100 updates the fluctuation pattern random number (step S715), and proceeds to the next step. For example, the main control unit 100 updates 1 by adding 1 to the fluctuation pattern random number (for example, 0 to 249) stored in the random number data D1, and updates the random number data D1 using the updated fluctuation pattern random number. .

  Next, the main control unit 100 determines whether or not a predetermined time (for example, 4 ms (milliseconds)) has elapsed since the execution of step S705 (step S716). When the predetermined time has elapsed, the main control unit 100 returns to step S705 and repeats the process. On the other hand, if the predetermined time has not elapsed, the main control unit 100 returns to step S714 and repeats the process. That is, the processing of steps S705 to S713 is repeated every predetermined time, and the processing of steps S714 to S716 is the remaining time (that is, the time obtained by subtracting the processing time of steps S705 to S713 from the predetermined time). ) Is repeated. Therefore, since the processing cycle of the random number update process performed in the above step S705 and the above steps S714 and S715 is different, each random number is updated at random, and the point in time when a big hit or the like occurs for the player. It becomes difficult to predict.

  As described above, according to the gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment, the time point at which the processing for generating the software random number performed by the main control unit 100 after the gaming machine 1 is turned on is irregular. It becomes difficult to aim for a specific random number immediately after the power is turned on. Specifically, the process in which the main control unit 100 generates software random numbers and performs various lotteries in the gaming machine 1 is performed in the main loop process (steps S705 to S716) shown in FIG. And the said main loop process which the main control part 100 performs is a process started after the initial loop process (step S701-S704) shown in FIG. 8 is complete | finished. That is, as shown in FIG. 22, in the gaming machine 1, the main control unit 100 starts the initial loop process immediately after the power is turned on, and the main loop process is started after the initial loop process is completed. Here, as described above, the time for which the initial loop processing is performed varies depending on the value of the maximum value Tmax. Since the maximum value Tmax is always obtained from a random hardware random number generated by the random number circuit 104, the maximum value Tmax is set as a random numerical value immediately after the gaming machine 1 is turned on. Therefore, the time during which the initial loop processing is performed changes according to the hardware random number (maximum value Tmax) acquired immediately after the gaming machine 1 is turned on, and as a result, the main loop processing is started. The time is also irregular.

  In the above-described processing, the example in which the time for performing the initial loop processing is changed according to the time for adding the timer value T from 0 to the maximum value Tmax has been described. It does not matter if the time taken is changed. For example, the time for which the initial loop process is performed may be changed according to the time for subtracting the timer value T from the maximum value Tmax to 0.

  As shown in FIG. 23, the main control unit 100 acquires the hardware random number generated by the random number circuit 104 as the maximum value Tmax (step S901), and proceeds to the next step. For example, when the random number circuit 104 includes a 16-bit counter, the random number circuit 104 generates a random value as a hardware random number in the range of 0 to 65535. That is, the CPU 101 can obtain a random value generated in the range of 0 to 65535 from the random number circuit 104 as the maximum value Tmax when the gaming machine 1 is turned on, similarly to the process shown in FIG. Then, the CPU 101 updates the maximum value data D20 using the hardware random number (maximum value Tmax) acquired from the random number circuit 104.

  Next, the main control unit 100 initializes the timer value T used as a temporary variable in the flowchart to the maximum value Tmax (step S902), and proceeds to the next step. For example, the main control unit 100 updates the timer value data D21 using the maximum value Tmax indicated by the data stored in the maximum value data D20.

  Next, the main control unit 100 refers to the timer value data D21 and determines whether or not the timer value T has become 0 (step S903). Then, when the timer value T reaches 0, the main control unit 100 proceeds to the next step S705 and starts the main loop process. On the other hand, when the timer value T is not 0, the main control unit 100 advances the process to the next step S904.

  In step S904, the main control unit 100 subtracts 1 from the timer value T to set a new timer value T, returns to step S903, and repeats the process. For example, the main control unit 100 subtracts 1 from the timer value T stored in the timer value data D21, and updates the timer value data D21 using the timer value T after the subtraction.

  As described above, also in the processing of steps S901 to S904, the number of times that steps S903 and S904 are executed in a loop varies depending on the value of the maximum value Tmax. That is, according to the maximum value Tmax, the time from the execution of step S901 to the start of the main loop process changes.

  The random number circuit 104 may be provided in the same semiconductor integrated circuit (chip) as the CPU 101 on the main control board on which the main control unit 100 is configured, or may be provided in a semiconductor integrated circuit different from the CPU 101. It doesn't matter. In the above description, the random number circuit 104 is provided in the main control unit 100. However, the random number circuit 104 may be provided outside the main control unit 100, that is, outside the main control board on which the main control unit 100 is configured. .

  In addition, the shape of the gaming machine 1 described above, and the shapes, numbers, and installation positions of the various accessories and operation buttons provided on the gaming machine 1 are merely examples, and are other shapes, numbers, and installation positions. However, it goes without saying that the present invention can be realized. Further, it is needless to say that the present invention can be realized even if the processing order, setting values, and the like used in the processing of the main control unit 100 described above are merely examples and other orders and values. For example, in the process shown in FIG. 8, when the timer value T is updated in step S704, a numerical value greater than 1 may be added to the timer value T before the update. In this case, if it is determined in the determination process in step S703 whether the timer value T is equal to or greater than the maximum value Tmax, the present invention can be similarly realized. In the process shown in FIG. 23, when the timer value T is updated in step S904, a numerical value larger than 1 may be subtracted from the timer value T before the update. In this case, the present invention can be similarly realized by determining whether or not the timer value T is 0 or less in the determination process of step S903.

  Although the present invention has been described in detail above, the above description is merely illustrative of the present invention in all respects and is not intended to limit the scope thereof. It goes without saying that various improvements and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Game machine 2 ... Game board 20 ... Game area 21 ... Image display part 22 ... Movable accessory 23 ... Board lamp 24 ... Discharge port 25 ... Start-up port 26 ... Electric tulip 27 ... Gate 28 ... Grand prize opening 29 ... Normal prize Mouth 3 ... Display 31 ... Special symbol display 32 ... Special symbol hold indicator 33 ... Normal symbol display 34 ... Normal symbol hold indicator 35 ... Game status indicator 43 ... Lock 5 ... Frame member 51 ... Handle 52 ... Lever 53 ... Stop button 54 ... Eject button 55 ... Speaker 56 ... Frame lamp 57 ... Production button 58 ... Production key 59 ... Dish 100 ... Main control units 101, 201, 301, 401, 501, 601 ... CPU
102, 202, 302, 402, 502, 602 ... ROM
103, 203, 303, 403, 503, 603 ... RAM
104 ... random number circuit 111 ... start opening switch 112 ... electric tulip opening / closing part 113 ... gate switch 114 ... big winning opening switch 115 ... big winning opening opening / closing part 116 ... normal winning opening switch 200 ... launch control part 211 ... launching device 300 ... payout Control unit 311 ... payout drive unit 400 ... production control unit 404 ... RTC
500 ... Image sound control unit 600 ... Lamp control unit

Claims (5)

A gaming machine played by a player,
Hardware random number generating means for generating a random hardware random number based on a predetermined clock signal;
Control means for controlling the operation of the gaming machine,
The control means includes
Game control means for controlling the gaming operation of the gaming machine;
Depending on the hardware random number the hardware random number generator has generated with the power-on of the gaming machine, seen including a start timing control means for said game control unit after the power is turned on to change the timing to start control ,
The start timing control means repeatedly executes a predetermined process a number of times according to a hardware random number generated when the gaming machine is turned on after the gaming machine is turned on, and after the execution, the gaming control means A gaming machine that starts control .   The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the gaming control means controls the gaming operation of the gaming machine by performing a hit determination of the gaming machine using a software random number that is counted every predetermined processing cycle.   The gaming machine according to claim 2, wherein the game control means updates the software random number by counting up from 0 to 1 every predetermined processing cycle when the control of the game operation is started. The start timing control means sequentially sets a predetermined value to a predetermined initial value until the maximum value is reached, with a hardware random number generated when the gaming machine is turned on as a maximum value after the gaming machine is turned on. Repeat the process for adding running, the added value is to initiate control of said game control means when reaching the maximum value, the gaming machine according to claim 1. The start timing control means repeatedly executes a process of sequentially subtracting a predetermined value from the maximum value, with the hardware random number generated when the gaming machine is turned on as the maximum value after the gaming machine is turned on. , the subtracted value to start the control of the game control means if it becomes 0 or less, the gaming machine according to claim 1.

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