JP5468192B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention is provided with an effect display device that variably displays a plurality of types of identification information that can identify each of them and derives and displays a display result, and is advantageous for a player when a specific display result is derived and displayed on the effect display device. A special game in which a transition is made to a specific gaming state, a transition to a specific gaming state advantageous to the player when a special condition is established, and a transition to the specific gaming state is easier than the normal state after the specific gaming state has ended. The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine to be shifted to a state.

  As a gaming machine, a game medium such as a game ball is launched into a game area by a launching device, and when a game medium wins a prize area such as a prize opening provided in the game area, a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out to the player. There is something to be done. Furthermore, a variable display device capable of variably displaying the identification information (also referred to as “fluctuation”) is provided, which is advantageous to the player when the display result of the variable display of the identification information becomes the specific display result in the variable display device. Some are configured to be controllable to a specific gaming state.

  The specific game state means a state advantageous for a player who is given a predetermined game value. Specifically, the specific game state has a right to become a state advantageous to the player (hit game state), which is advantageous for a player who is easy to win, for example, the state of the special variable winning ball apparatus, and a state advantageous to the player. A state in which a predetermined game value such as a state or a state in which a condition for giving out premium game media is easily established is given.

  In a pachinko machine, a specific display mode determined in advance is derived and displayed as a display result of variable display of special symbols (identification information) that is started in the variable display device based on the winning of a game ball at the start winning opening. If this happens, a “big hit” will occur. Note that the derivation display is to stop and display a symbol (excluding stop before so-called re-variation). When the big hit occurs, for example, the big winning opening is opened a predetermined number of times, and the game shifts to a big hit gaming state where the hit ball is easy to win. And in each open period, if there is a prize for a predetermined number (for example, 10) of the big prize opening, the big prize opening is closed. And the number of times of opening the special winning opening is fixed to a predetermined number (for example, 15 rounds). An opening time (for example, 29 seconds) is determined for each opening, and even if the number of winnings does not reach a predetermined number, the big winning opening is closed when the opening time elapses. Hereinafter, the opening period of each special winning opening may be referred to as a round.

  In addition, on the display screen of the variable display device, the symbols other than the symbol that becomes the final stop symbol (for example, the middle symbol of the left and right middle symbols) are stopped for a predetermined time and in a state that matches the specific display result. A big hit occurs before the final result is displayed due to fluctuation, enlargement / reduction, or deformation, or when multiple symbols change synchronously with the same symbol, or the position of the display symbol changes. An effect performed in a state where the possibility continues (hereinafter, these states are referred to as reach states) is referred to as reach effect. Further, the reach state and its state are referred to as a reach mode. Furthermore, variable display including reach production is called reach variable display. Then, when the display result of the symbol variably displayed on the variable display device is not a specific display result, it becomes “out of” and the variability display state ends. A player plays a game while enjoying how to generate a big hit.

  Furthermore, if a special condition is established such that the display result of the variable display of the identification information becomes a special specific display result (special display result) of the specific display results in the variable display device, the big hit is made after the end of the big hit gaming state. There is a gaming machine that shifts to a high-probability state (also referred to as a probabilistic change state) in which the probability of occurrence of is high.

  In such a gaming machine, when the variable display of the identification information is being performed or during the big hit game, the gaming machine that performs the effect of notifying the player that the state is to be changed to the probable change state in the effect device including the variable display device (For example, see Patent Documents 1 and 2).

  In the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, a specific character image is displayed on the variable display device during the variable display of the identification information, thereby notifying that the transition to the probable change state is made after the end of the big hit gaming state.

  In the gaming machine described in Patent Document 2, a specific character image is displayed on the variable display device during the big hit game, thereby informing that the game will shift to the probable change state after the big hit game state. In other words, the player can grasp that the game is shifted to the big hit gaming state by the display result (stop symbol) of the variable display of the identification information, but cannot know whether or not the game is shifted to the probability variation state. And it can grasp | ascertain that it transfers to a probability change state by the production performed during a big hit game. Hereinafter, when it is not possible to grasp whether or not to shift to the probability change state based on the display result of the variable display of the identification information, the effect that is executed after that is promoted to make the player know that the probability change state is shifted to It is called production.

JP 2005-21270 (paragraph 0043, FIG. 5) Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 6-304312 (paragraphs 0044-0047, FIGS. 6 and 7)

  However, in the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, since it is notified that the variable information is shifted to the probability change state before the variable display of the identification information is finished, the player's interest regarding the probability change state is indicated by the variable display of the identification information. It can only last until the end of. In addition, in the gaming machine described in Patent Document 2, since the promotion effect is executed during the jackpot game, it is only possible to draw the player's attention regarding the probability change state only during the jackpot game.

  In view of the above, an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine capable of maintaining the interest of a player regarding a special game state such as a probable change state over a long period of time and further enhancing the interest of the game.

Yu technique machine according to the invention comprises a effect display device for deriving display the variable display was carried out display result of the identification information of a plurality of types that can identify each (e.g., the special symbol display device 8 and the effect display device 9), the When a specific display result (for example, a jackpot symbol) is derived and displayed on the effect display device, the game is shifted to a specific gaming state (for example, a jackpot gaming state), which is advantageous to the player and is opened multiple times. normal gaming state after the specific game state is completed with shifts in Japanese Teiyugi state when the condition is satisfied (e.g., the state is not a special game state) is a state where the specific display results easily derived displayed in comparison with the special gaming state (e.g., probability variation state) a gaming machine to be migrated to, and whether or not a particular display result display result of the identification information, whether the transient to establish a special condition, the table identification information Predetermining means for deciding before the result is derived and displayed (for example, a part for executing the processing of steps S61 to S63 in the game control microcomputer 560) and a first effect and a second effect are selected from a plurality of types. Effect selection means (for example, in the effect control microcomputer 100, the portion that executes the processes of steps S870A to S871A and S903 to S904) and the first effect selected by the effect selection means during the specific game state In the effect display device over a plurality of times when the variable winning device is opened, and after the specific game state when the first effect is executed, the second effect selected by the effect selection means is performed in the effect display device a plurality of times. demonstration execution means for executing over a variable display (eg, in effect control microcomputer 100, Steps S841 to S845 and a part for executing the processes of steps S883 to S886), and when the predetermining means decides to establish the special condition, the effect selecting means does not establish the special condition. When the specific first effect (for example, the character R) is selected as the first effect, the specific second effect (for example, the character C) is selected as the second effect at a higher rate than when the first effect is determined. When a predetermined first effect (for example, character Q) is selected, the predetermined second effect (for example, character A) is selected as the second effect at a high rate.

  The effect selecting means includes a first effect type selecting means (for example, a portion for executing the processing of steps S825 to S826 in the effect control microcomputer 100) and a first effect type selecting means. Second effect selection means for selecting the type of the second effect based on the selected type of the first effect and whether or not the special condition is satisfied (for example, the processing of steps S876 to S877 in the effect control microcomputer 100). And a portion for executing the above.

  The effect selecting means sets data capable of specifying the type of the first effect selected by the first effect type selecting means in the effect type storage means (for example, the first effect character buffer 112a in the RAM 112 in the effect control microcomputer 100). The first effect type storage means (for example, the part for executing the processing of step S827 in the effect control microcomputer 100), and the second effect selection means is based on the data set in the effect type storage means. The type of the second effect may be selected (for example, using data stored in the first effect character buffer 112a in the process of step S871).

  Game control means (for example, a game control microcomputer 560) for controlling the progress of the game, and effect control means (for example, for game control) for controlling the display state of the effect display device based on the command output by the game control means. An effect control microcomputer 100 that receives an effect control command from the microcomputer 560 and an effect control microcomputer 100 that receives an effect control command from the game control microcomputer 560 via another board, and is determined in advance. The means is included in the game control means, the effect selection means is included in the effect control means, and the game control means can specify that the predetermination means has decided to establish the special condition at a predetermined time. Special condition specifying command (for example, design symbol designation command (8C01 (H) to 8C03 ( )) And a background output command (9500 (H) to 9502 (H)), including command output means (for example, a part for executing the processing of steps S119 and S135 in the game control microcomputer 560) The means controls the display state of the effect display device based on the special condition specifying command (for example, executes display control according to the type of the first effect selected in the process of step S826), and the first effect type selecting means is The type of the first effect is selected based on the special condition specifying command (for example, the process of step S826), and the second effect type selecting means selects the type of the first effect selected by the first effect type selecting means and the special condition. The second presentation may be selected based on the specific command (for example, the process of step S871).

  As the special condition specifying command, the command output means determines in advance each time when the first effect type selecting means selects the first effect type and when the second effect type selecting means selects the second effect type. A display result specifying command (for example, an effect symbol designating command) that can specify a display result of variable display of identification information based on the determination result of the means is output (for example, processing in steps S119 and S135), and first effect type selecting means Selects the type of the first effect based on the display result specifying command (for example, the process of step S826), and the second effect type selecting means displays the type and the display of the first effect selected by the first effect type selecting means. The type of the second effect may be selected based on the result specifying command (for example, the process of step S871).

  The command output means designates that the background portion on the display screen of the effect display device is in a mode corresponding to the special gaming state or the non-special gaming state when the identification information is variably displayed as the special condition specifying command. It includes a background designation command output means for outputting a background designation command (for example, a part for executing the processing of step S107 in the game control microcomputer 560), and at least one of the first effect type selection means and the second effect type selection means. May be configured to select an effect type based on the background designation command (the process in step S871B shown in FIG. 71 or the process in step S904A shown in FIG. 72).

  The game control means is a backup storage means (for example, information relating to a game in which it is possible to specify that the pre-decision means has decided to establish the special condition for a predetermined period even if power supply to the gaming machine is stopped) The storage means (for example, the RAM 112 in the effect control microcomputer 100) included in the effect control means has a volatile power supply backed up RAM 55, and cannot store information related to the effect when the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped. The command output means is a storage means, and the command output means is a special condition specifying command (for example, directing design designation) on condition that information on the game is stored in the backup storage means when power supply to the gaming machine is started. Command) (for example, the process of step S44 shown in FIG. 5 is executed). .

  The game control means is a backup storage means (for example, information relating to a game in which it is possible to specify that the pre-decision means has decided to establish the special condition for a predetermined period even if power supply to the gaming machine is stopped) The storage means (for example, the RAM 112 in the effect control microcomputer 100) included in the effect control means has a volatile power supply backed up RAM 55, and cannot store information related to the effect when the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped. The storage means, and the effect control means includes, as an initial value, data that can identify a predetermined type of first effect (for example, character P) when the power supply to the gaming machine is started. It may be configured to be set in the effect type storage means (for example, the process of step S713 shown in FIG. 27 is executed).

  When the power supply to the gaming machine is started, the effect control means sets, as an initial value, data that can specify a predetermined type of second effect (for example, character A) in the effect type storage means (for example, The process of step S713 shown in FIG. 27 may be executed).

In the first aspect of the invention, the gaming machine provides an effect display means for selecting the first effect and the second effect from a plurality of types, and an effect display for the first effect selected by the effect selection means during the specific gaming state. This is executed over the opening of the variable prize device a plurality of times in the device, and after the specific game state when the first effect is executed, the second effect selected by the effect selection means is displayed in the effect display device a plurality of times. And when the predetermining means decides to establish the special condition, the production selecting means executes the first effect as compared to when the special condition is decided not to be established. When the specific first effect is selected, the specific second effect is selected as the second effect at a high rate, and when the predetermined first effect is selected as the first effect, the predetermined second effect is selected as the second effect at a high rate. Do Since it is configured in this way, there is an effect that the player's interest regarding the special game state such as the probability change state can be maintained from the specific game state to the predetermined time after the specific game state, and the interest of the game can be further enhanced. .

Starring output selection means, first based on the first effect type selecting means and the type of the first effect of the first effect type selecting means has selected, and whether special condition is met for selecting the type of the first effect In the case of including the second effect selecting means for selecting the type of the second effect, the type of the second effect corresponding to the selected type of the first effect can be flexibly selected. For example, when there is a correlation between the type of the first effect and the expectation that the special condition will be established, the expectation that the special condition will be established for the first effect with a low expectation By selecting the type of the second effect so that the combination of the first effect and the second effect is high, the expectation is low while the first effect is being executed, but the second effect is expected to start. It is possible to execute an effect such as increasing the degree.

Starring output selection means includes a first effect type storage means for setting to the effect type memory means capable of identifying data of the first rendition of the selected type is first effect type selecting means, the second effect selecting means, effect based on the data set in the type storage unit if it is configured to select a type of second effect is a kind of second effect flexibly based on the set in the effect type memory means data You can choose.

Starring output control means first directing type selection means in selects the first effect of the kind based on the special condition specifying command, the second effect type selecting means in the performance control unit, the first effect type selecting means selects if it is configured to select the second effect based on the and special conditions specific command type of the first effect can reduce the processing load related to the promotion effect of the game controller.

Is command output means, as a special condition specifying command, at each time when the first effect type selecting means when and second effect type selecting means for selecting the type of the first effect to select the type of the second effect, pre A display result specifying command capable of specifying the display result of the variable display of the identification information based on the determination result of the determining means is output, and the first effect type selecting means selects the type of the first effect based on the display result specifying command. , when the second effect type selecting means is configured to select the first effect of the type and display result specific commands and type of the second effect based on the first effect type selecting means has selected, The effect selection means does not need to store the display result specifying command output from the game control means first, and the processing of the effect control means is simplified. Even when the display result specifying command output from the game control means is not received first, the second effect is started based on the display result specifying command output at the time of selecting the type of the second effect. Will be able to.

Is command output means, as a special condition specifying command, specify when the variable display of the identification information is, to the manner in which the corresponding background portion of the display screen of the effect display device in a special game state or a non-special game state Background designation command output means for outputting a background designation command to be performed, and at least one of the first effect type selection means and the second effect type selection means is configured to select an effect type based on the background designation command. If there is , the above-described effects of the first effect and the second effect can be obtained without increasing the types of commands output from the game control means. Further, when the second effect is executed after the end of the specific gaming state and the type of the second effect is selected after the start of variable display of the next identification information, the second effect is based on the display result specifying command. Selection control is easier than when selecting the type of effect. When the type of the second effect is selected based on the display result specifying command, the type of the second effect should be selected based on the display result specifying command related to the variable display before the specific game state is started. This is because it is necessary to control not to select the type of the second effect based on the display result specifying command related to the variable display of the next identification information.

If the command output means, when the power supply to the gaming machine is started, the information regarding the game to a backup storage means on condition that was stored, and is configured to output a special condition specifying command In this case, the first effect and the second effect can be continued when the power is restored after a power failure or the like occurs.

Starring output control means, when the power supply to the gaming machine is started, an initial value data capable of identifying the first effect of a given type, so as to set the effect type storage means included in the storage means If configured, when restored after a power failure or the like occurs, even if no data capable of identifying the type of the first effect is saved, it determines the second effect corresponding to the first effect. In addition, when a command indicating that the game control means has recovered after a power failure or the like is output and the effect control means is configured to determine whether or not the command has been output, The display relating to the first effect can be performed in the effect display device based on the data set as the value, and even if data capable of specifying the first effect is not stored in the effect type storage means Since the type of the first effect is substantially determined, an appropriate combination according to whether or not the predetermining means has decided to establish the special condition as a combination of the first effect and the second effect. Can be selected.

Blackout Starring output control means, when the power supply to the gaming machine is started, to the effect type storage means is configured to set the data capable of specifying the second rendition of a predetermined type as the initial value The second effect can be executed even if the data that can identify the type of the second effect is not stored when the recovery is performed after the occurrence of the above.

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

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

  As shown in FIG. 1, the pachinko gaming machine 1 has a glass door frame 2 formed in a frame shape. On the lower surface of the glass door frame 2 is a hitting ball supply tray (upper plate) 3. Under the hitting ball supply tray 3, an extra ball receiving tray 4 for storing game balls that cannot be accommodated in the hit ball supply tray 3 and a hitting operation handle (operation knob) 5 for launching the game balls are provided. A game board 6 is detachably attached to the back surface of the glass door frame 2. The game board 6 is a structure including a plate-like body constituting the game board 6 and various components attached to the plate-like body. A game area 7 is formed on the front surface of the game board 6.

  In the vicinity of the center of the game area 7, an effect display device (image display device) 9 is provided as a variable display device that variably displays a plurality of types of decorative patterns for effects. The effect display device 9 includes a symbol display area 9A for variably displaying, for example, three decorative (effect) symbols for “left”, “middle”, and “right”. The effect display device 9 performs variable display of decorative symbols as decorative (effect) symbols during the variable symbol variable display period of the special symbol indicator 8. The effect display device 9 that performs variable display of decorative symbols is controlled by an effect control microcomputer mounted on the effect control board. The position of the symbol display area 9A may not be fixed on the display screen of the effect display device 9, and the three areas “left”, “middle”, and “right” may be separated.

  A special symbol display (special symbol display device) 8 that variably displays a special symbol as identification information is provided on the top of the effect display device 9. In this embodiment, the special symbol display 8 is realized by a simple and small display (for example, 7 segment LED) capable of variably displaying numbers 0 to 9, for example. The special symbol display 8 may be configured to variably display a larger number of numbers such as 0 to 99 in order to make it difficult for the player to grasp a specific stop symbol. Further, the effect display device 9 performs variable display of decorative symbols during the variable symbol display period of the special symbols by the special symbol display 8.

  At the bottom of the effect display device 9, a special symbol hold memory display comprising four displays for displaying the number of valid winning balls that have entered the start winning opening 13, that is, the number of hold memories (also referred to as start memory or start prize memory). 18 is provided. Every time there is an effective start prize, the display color of one display is changed. Each time the variable display on the special symbol display 8 is started, the display color of one display is restored. In addition, in the display area of the effect display device 9, a special symbol reserved storage display area including four display areas for displaying the number of reserved memories may be provided. Further, in this embodiment, the upper limit value of the number of reserved memories is 4, but the upper limit value may be a larger value. Further, the upper limit value may be changed according to the gaming state.

  Below the effect display device 9, a variable winning ball device 15 that forms a start winning opening 13 is provided. The variable winning ball apparatus 15 is opened by the solenoid 16 and when it is opened, it is easy to win a game ball in the start winning opening 13. A game ball won in the start winning opening 13 is led to the back of the game board 6 and detected by the start opening switch 13a.

  A special variable winning ball apparatus 20 is provided below the variable winning ball apparatus 15. The special variable winning ball apparatus 20 includes an opening / closing plate, and in a specific gaming state (big hit state), the opening / closing plate is controlled to be opened by the solenoid 21 so that the large winning opening serving as a winning area is opened. The winning ball that has won the big winning opening is detected by the count switch 23.

  When a game ball wins the gate 32 and is detected by the gate switch 32a, the variable display of the normal symbol display 10 is started. In this embodiment, variable display is performed by alternately lighting left and right lamps (designs can be visually recognized when lit). For example, if the right lamp is lit at the end of variable display, it is a win. And when the stop symbol in the normal symbol display 10 is a predetermined symbol (winning symbol), the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is opened for a predetermined number of times. In the vicinity of the normal symbol display 10, a normal symbol start memory display 41 having a display unit with four LEDs for displaying the number of winning balls entered into the gate 32 is provided. Each time there is a prize at the gate 32, the normal symbol start memory display 41 increases the number of LEDs to be turned on by one. Each time variable display on the normal symbol display 10 is started, the number of LEDs to be lit is reduced by one.

  The game board 6 is provided with a plurality of winning ports (ordinary winning ports) 29, 30, 33, and 39. The winning holes 29, 30, 33, and 39 for the game balls are awarded to the winning port switches 29a and 30a, respectively. , 33a, 39a. Each winning opening 29, 30, 33, 39 constitutes a winning area provided in the game board 6 as an area for accepting game media and allowing winning. The start winning opening 13 and the big winning opening also constitute a winning area that accepts game media and allows winning. In addition, the game balls won in the respective winning openings 29, 30, 33, 39 may be detected by one switch.

  A decoration LED 25 blinkingly displayed during the game is provided around the left and right sides of the game area 7, and an outlet 26 for absorbing a game ball that has not won a prize is provided at the bottom. Two speakers 27 that emit sound effects are provided on the left and right upper portions outside the game area 7. On the outer periphery of the game area 7, a top frame LED 28a, a left frame LED 28b, and a right frame LED 28c are provided. Furthermore, a decoration LED is installed around each structure (such as the effect display device 9) in the game area 7. The top frame LED 28a, the left frame LED 28b, the right frame LED 28c, and the decoration LED are examples of a decorative light emitter provided in the gaming machine.

  The game balls launched from the hit ball launching device enter the game area 7 through the hit ball rail, and then descend the game area 7. If the game ball enters the start winning opening 13 and is detected by the start opening switch 13a, the special symbol on the special symbol display 8 starts variable display (variation) as long as the variable display of the symbol can be started. The decorative design on the display device 9 starts variable display (variation). If it is not in a state where the variable display of symbols can be started, the start winning memory number is increased by one.

  The variable display of the special symbol on the special symbol display 8 and the variable display of the decorative symbol on the effect display device 9 are stopped when a predetermined time has elapsed. When the special symbol (stop symbol) at the time of stoppage is a big hit symbol (specific display result: for example, a symbol “7” of “0” to “9”), the game shifts to a big hit gaming state. That is, the special variable winning ball apparatus 20 is released until a predetermined time (for example, 29 seconds) elapses or until a predetermined number (for example, 10) of gaming balls have won.

  When the game ball wins the gate 32, normal symbols (for example, “◯” and “x”) are variably displayed on the normal symbol display 10. Further, when the stop symbol on the normal symbol display 10 is a predetermined symbol (winning symbol: “◯”, for example), the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is opened for a predetermined time. Further, in the probability variation state, the probability that the stop symbol in the normal symbol display 10 becomes a winning symbol is increased, and the opening time and the number of times of opening of the variable winning ball device 15 are increased. Further, in the short time state (the game state in which the variable symbol display time for special symbols is shortened), the opening time and the number of opening times of the variable winning ball device 15 may be increased.

  In this example, a prize ball LED 51 that is lit during award ball payout is provided in the vicinity of the left frame LED 28b, and a ball cut LED 52 that is lit when the supply ball is cut is provided in the vicinity of the right frame LED 28c. Yes. As described above, the pachinko gaming machine 1 of this embodiment is provided with light emitters at various locations. Further, a prepaid card unit (hereinafter also simply referred to as a “card unit”) that enables ball lending by inserting a prepaid card is installed adjacent to the pachinko gaming machine 1 (not shown).

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the circuit configuration of the main board (game control board) 31. FIG. 2 also shows a payout control board 37, an effect control board 80, and the like. A game control microcomputer (corresponding to game control means) 560 for controlling the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to a program is mounted on the main board 31. The game control microcomputer 560 includes a ROM 54 for storing a game control (game progress control) program and the like, a RAM 55 as storage means used as a work memory, a CPU 56 for performing control operations in accordance with the program, and an I / O port unit 57. including. In this embodiment, the ROM 54 and the RAM 55 are built in the game control microcomputer 560. That is, the game control microcomputer 560 is a one-chip microcomputer. The one-chip microcomputer only needs to incorporate at least the CPU 56 and the RAM 55, and the ROM 54 may be external or built-in. The I / O port unit 57 may be externally attached. The game control microcomputer 560 further includes a random number circuit 503 that generates hardware random numbers (random numbers generated by the hardware circuit).

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

  The random number circuit 503 is a hardware circuit that is used to generate a random number for determination to determine whether or not to win a jackpot based on a display result of variable symbol special display. The random number circuit 503 updates numerical data in accordance with a set update rule within a numerical range in which an initial value (for example, 0) and an upper limit value (for example, 65535) are set, and starts at a random timing Based on the fact that the winning time is the reading (extraction) of the numerical data, it has a random number generation function in which the numerical data to be read becomes a random value.

  The random number circuit 503 includes a numeric data update range selection setting function (initial value selection setting function and upper limit value selection setting function), numeric data update rule selection setting function, and numeric data update rule selection. It has various functions such as a switching function. With such a function, the randomness of the generated random numbers can be improved.

  Further, the game control microcomputer 560 has a function of setting an initial value of numerical data updated by the random number circuit 503. For example, a predetermined calculation is performed using the ID number of the game control microcomputer 560 stored in a predetermined storage area such as the ROM 54 (an ID number assigned with a different value for each product of the game control microcomputer 560). The numerical data obtained by the execution is set as the initial value of the numerical data updated by the random number circuit 503. By performing such processing, the randomness of the random number generated by the random number circuit 503 can be further improved.

  Further, an input driver circuit 58 for supplying detection signals from the gate switch 32a, the start port switch 13a, the count switch 23, and the winning port switches 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a to the game control microcomputer 560 is also mounted on the main board 31. Yes. The main board also includes an output circuit 59 for driving the solenoid 16 for opening and closing the variable winning ball device 15 and the solenoid 21 for opening and closing the special variable winning ball device 20 that forms a big winning opening in accordance with a command from the game control microcomputer 560. 31.

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

  An information output circuit (not shown) that outputs an information output signal such as jackpot information indicating the occurrence of a jackpot gaming state to an external device such as a hall computer is also mounted on the main board 31.

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

  Further, the effect control means mounted on the effect control board 80 controls the display of the decoration LED 25 provided on the game board via the lamp driver board 35 and the top frame LED 28a provided on the frame side. The left frame LED 28 b, the right frame LED 28 c, the prize ball lamp 51 and the ball break lamp 52 are controlled to be displayed, and the sound output from the speaker 27 is controlled via the audio output board 70.

  FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a circuit configuration example of the relay board 77, the effect control board 80, the lamp driver board 35, and the audio output board 70. In the example shown in FIG. 3, the lamp driver board 35 and the audio output board 70 are not equipped with a microcomputer, but may be equipped with a microcomputer. Further, without providing the lamp driver board 35 and the audio output board 70, only the effect control board 80 may be provided for effect control.

  The effect control board 80 includes an effect control microcomputer 101 including an effect control CPU 101 and a RAM 112 that stores information relating to effects such as effect symbol process flags. The RAM 112 may be externally attached. In the effect control board 80, the effect control CPU 101 operates in accordance with a program stored in the built-in or external ROM 111, and an input signal (effect control INT signal) from the main board 31 input via the relay board 77. In response, the effect control command is received via the input driver 102 and the input port 103. Further, the effect control CPU 101 causes the VDP (video display processor) 109 to perform display control of the effect display device 9 based on the effect control command.

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

  The effect control CPU 101 outputs to the VDP 109 a command for reading out necessary data from a CGROM (not shown) in accordance with the received effect control command. The CGROM stores in advance character image data and moving image data to be displayed on the effect display device 9, specifically, a person, characters, figures, symbols, etc. (including decorative symbols), and background image data. ROM. The VDP 109 reads image data from the CGROM in response to the instruction from the effect control CPU 101. The VDP 109 executes display control based on the read image data.

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

  As a signal direction regulating means, the signal inputted from the main board 31 is allowed to pass through the relay board 77 only in the direction toward the effect control board 80 (the signal is not passed in the direction from the effect control board 80 to the relay board 77). The unidirectional circuit 74 is mounted. For example, a diode or a transistor is used as the unidirectional circuit. FIG. 3 illustrates a diode. A unidirectional circuit is provided for each signal. Furthermore, since the effect control command and the effect control INT signal are output from the main board 31 via the output port 571 that is a unidirectional circuit, the signal from the relay board 77 toward the inside of the main board 31 is restricted. That is, the signal from the relay board 77 does not enter the inside of the main board 31 (the game control microcomputer 560 side). The output port 571 is a part of the I / O port unit 57 shown in FIG. Further, a signal driver circuit that is a unidirectional circuit may be further provided outside the output port 571 (on the relay board 77 side).

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

  In the lamp driver board 35, a signal for driving the LED is input to the LED driver 352 via the input driver 351. The LED driver 352 supplies a current to each LED provided on the frame side such as the top frame LED 28a, the left frame LED 28b, and the right frame LED 28c based on a signal for driving the LED. Moreover, an electric current is supplied to the decoration LED 25 provided on the frame side.

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

  Next, the configuration of the power supply substrate 910 will be described with reference to the block diagram of FIG. The power supply board 910 is provided with a power switch 914 for permitting or shutting off power supply to each electric component control board or mechanism component in the gaming machine. Note that the power switch 914 may be provided outside the power supply board 910 in the gaming machine. When the power switch 914 is in a closed state (on state), AC power (AC 24 V) is applied to the input side (primary side) of the transformer 911. The transformer 911 is for electrically insulating the AC power supply (AC24V) and the inside of the power supply substrate 910, and its output voltage is also AC24V. A varistor 918 as an overvoltage protection circuit is installed on the input side of the transformer 911.

  The power supply board 910 is installed independently of the electric component control board (the main board 31, the payout control board 37, the effect control board 80, etc.), and generates a voltage used by each board and the mechanical parts in the gaming machine. In this example, AC24V, VSL (DC + 30V), VLP (DC + 24V), VDD (DC + 12V) and VCC (DC + 5V) are generated. Further, a capacitor 916 serving as a storage holding means for holding the stored contents in the backup power supply (VBB), that is, the backup RAM, is charged from DC + 5V (VCC), that is, a power supply line for driving an IC or the like on each substrate. Further, a backflow prevention diode 917 is inserted between the +5 V line and the backup +5 V (VBB) line. Note that VSL is generated by rectifying and boosting AC 24 V with a rectifying element in the rectifying and smoothing circuit 915. VSL becomes a solenoid driving power source. VLP is a lamp lighting voltage, and is generated by rectifying AC24V with a rectifier element in the rectifier circuit 912.

  The DC-DC converter 913 serving as a power supply voltage generation unit has one or a plurality of switching regulators (two regulator ICs 924A and 924B are shown in FIG. 4), and generates VDD and VCC based on VSL. Relatively large capacitors 923A and 923B are connected to the input sides of the regulator ICs (switching regulators) 924A and 924B. Accordingly, when the power supply to the gaming machine from the outside is stopped, the DC voltages such as VSL, VDD, VCC, etc., decrease relatively slowly.

  As shown in FIG. 4, AC24V output from the transformer 911 is supplied to the connector 922B as it is. The VLP is supplied to the connector 922C. VCC, VDD and VSL are supplied to connectors 922A, 922B and 922C.

  The cable connected to the connector 922A is connected to the main board 31. The cable connected to the connector 922B is connected to the payout control board 37. Therefore, VBB is also supplied to the connector 922A. For example, a cable connected to the connector 922 </ b> C is connected to the lamp driver board 35. Each voltage is supplied to the effect control board 80 via the lamp driver board 35.

  In addition, a clear switch 921 having a push button structure is mounted on the power supply board 910. When the clear switch 921 is pressed, a low level (ON state) clear signal is output and output to the main board 31 via the connector 922A. If the clear switch 921 is not pressed, a high level (off state) signal is output. The clear switch 921 may have a configuration other than the push button structure. Further, the clear switch 921 may be provided other than the power supply board 910 in the gaming machine.

  Further, the power supply board 910 generates a reset signal for the microcomputer mounted on the electric component control board, amplifies the reset signal from the power supply monitor circuit 920 that outputs a power-off signal, and the power supply monitor circuit 920. And an output driver circuit 925 that amplifies the power-off signal and outputs the amplified signal to the connector 922B. The reset signal for the effect control microcomputer is transmitted to the effect control board 80 via the lamp driver board 35. Further, when the reset circuit is mounted on each electric component control board, the voltage value that makes the reset signal high may be made different (for example, the case of the main board 31 is made highest). The timing at which the reset signal for the game control microcomputer 560 becomes high level is the latest).

  A power-off signal from the power monitoring circuit 920, that is, a detection signal from the power monitoring means is input to the game control microcomputer 560 via an input port mounted on the main board 31. That is, the gaming control microcomputer 560 can confirm the occurrence of the stop of the power supply to the gaming machine by monitoring the input signal of the input port.

  Next, the operation of the gaming machine will be described. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing main processing executed by the game control microcomputer 560 on the main board 31. When power is supplied to the gaming machine and power supply is started, the input level of the reset terminal to which the reset signal is input becomes high level, and the gaming control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) After executing a security check process, which is a process for confirming whether the contents of the program are valid, the main process after step S1 is started. In the main process, the CPU 56 first performs necessary initial settings.

  In the initial setting process, the CPU 56 first sets the interrupt prohibition (step S1). Next, the interrupt mode is set to interrupt mode 2 (step S2), and a stack pointer designation address is set to the stack pointer (step S3). Then, after initialization of the built-in device (CTC (counter / timer) and PIO (parallel input / output port) which are built-in devices (built-in peripheral circuits)) is performed (step S4), the RAM 55 is accessible. (Step S5). In the interrupt mode 2, the address synthesized from the value (1 byte) of the specific register (I register) built in the CPU 56 and the interrupt vector (1 byte: least significant bit 0) output from the built-in device is This mode indicates an interrupt address.

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

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

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

  If the check result is normal, the CPU 56 restores the game state recovery process (steps S41 to S44) for returning the internal state of the game control means and the control state of the electrical component control means such as the effect control means to the state when the power supply is stopped. Process). Specifically, the start address of the backup setting table stored in the ROM 54 is set as a pointer (step S41), and the contents of the backup setting table are sequentially set in the work area (area in the RAM 55) (step S42). ). The work area is backed up by a backup power source. In the backup setting table, initialization data for an area that may be initialized in the work area is set. As a result of the processing in steps S41 and S42, the saved contents of the work area that should not be initialized remain as they are. The part that should not be initialized is, for example, data indicating the gaming state before the power supply is stopped (special symbol process flag, probability variation flag, time reduction flag, etc.), and the area where the output state of the output port is saved (output port buffer) ), A portion in which data indicating the number of unpaid prize balls is set.

  Further, the CPU 56 transmits a power failure recovery designation command as an initialization command at the time of power supply recovery to the effect control board 80 (step S43). Furthermore, an effect designating command capable of specifying a stop symbol of the effect design (decorative design) is transmitted to the effect control board 80 (step S44). The effect symbol designation command to be transmitted is an effect symbol designation command based on data indicating the effect symbol designation command (the effect symbol designation command transmitted last before the power supply is stopped) stored in the backup RAM area. . The CPU 56 also transmits a background designation command. Then, the process proceeds to step S14.

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

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

  By the processing in steps S11 and S12, an initial value is set to a flag for selectively performing processing according to the control state, such as a special symbol process flag.

  Further, the CPU 56 initializes a sub board (a board on which a microcomputer other than the main board 31 is mounted) (a command indicating that the game control microcomputer 560 has executed an initialization process). Is also transmitted to the effect control board 80 (step S13). For example, when the effect control microcomputer 100 mounted on the effect control board 80 receives the initialization designation command, the effect display device 9 displays a screen for notifying that the control of the gaming machine has been initialized. Display, that is, initialization notification. In the initialization process, the CPU 56 also transmits a customer waiting demonstration designation (demo designation) command and a background designation command.

  Further, the CPU 56 executes a random number circuit setting process for initial setting of the random number circuit 503 (step S14). For example, the CPU 56 performs setting according to the random number circuit setting program to cause the random number circuit 503 to update the value of the random R.

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

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

  When the timer interrupt occurs, the CPU 56 executes the timer interrupt process in steps S20 to S34 shown in FIG. In the timer interrupt process, first, a power-off detection process for detecting whether or not a power-off signal is output (whether or not an on-state is turned on) is executed (step S20). The power-off signal is output, for example, when the power monitoring circuit 920 mounted on the power board detects a decrease in the voltage of the power supplied to the gaming machine. In the power-off detection process, when detecting that the power-off signal has been output, the CPU 56 executes a power supply stop process for saving necessary data in the backup RAM area. Next, detection signals of the gate switch 32a, the start port switch 13a, the count switch 23, and the winning port switches 29a, 30a, 33a, and 39a are input via the input driver circuit 58, and the state determination is performed (switch processing). : Step S21).

  Next, the CPU 56 executes display control processing for performing display control of the special symbol display 8, the normal symbol display 10, the special symbol hold storage display 18, and the normal symbol hold storage display 41 (step S22). For the special symbol display 8 and the normal symbol display 10, control for outputting a drive signal to each display is executed according to the contents of the output buffer set in steps S32 and S33.

  Further, a process of updating the count value of each counter for generating each random number for determination such as a random number for determining a normal winning symbol used for game control is performed (determination random number update process: step S23). The CPU 56 further performs a process of updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number and the display random number (initial value random number update process, display random number update process: steps S24 and S25).

FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing each random number. It is explanatory drawing which shows each random number. Each random number is used as follows.
(1) Random 1: Determine a special symbol's off symbol (for off symbol determination)
(2) Random 2: Determine the special symbol jackpot symbol (for jackpot symbol determination)
(3) Random 3: Determine whether or not to reach (for reach determination)
(4) Random 4: Determines the variation pattern (variation time) of the jackpot symbol and the decorative symbol (for variation pattern determination)
(5) Random 5: Determines whether or not to generate a hit based on a normal symbol (for normal symbol hit determination)
(6) Random 6: Decide whether or not to execute the first effect in the promotion effect (for effect execution determination)
(7) Random 7: Determine the initial value of random 5 (for determining the random 5 initial value)

  In step S23 in the game control process shown in FIG. 6, the game control microcomputer 560 uses a counter for generating the jackpot symbol determining random number of (2) and the determining random number of normal symbol of (5). Count up (add 1). That is, they are determination random numbers, and other random numbers are display random numbers or initial value random numbers. In addition, in order to improve a game effect, you may make it use random numbers other than the random number of said (1)-(7). In this embodiment, the big hit determination random number is a random number generated by the hardware (random number circuit 503) built in the game control microcomputer 560. The big hit determination random number is used as the big hit determination random number. Software random numbers generated based on the program may be used.

  Further, the CPU 56 performs special symbol process processing (step S26). In the special symbol process, the corresponding symbol is executed in accordance with a special symbol process flag for controlling the special symbol display 8 and the special winning award in a predetermined order. The CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag according to the gaming state.

  Next, normal symbol process processing is performed (step S27). In the normal symbol process, the CPU 56 executes a corresponding process according to the normal symbol process flag for controlling the display state of the normal symbol display 10 in a predetermined order. The CPU 56 updates the value of the normal symbol process flag according to the gaming state.

  Further, the CPU 56 performs a process of sending an effect control command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (effect control command control process: step S28).

  Further, the CPU 56 performs information output processing for outputting data such as jackpot information, start information, probability variation information supplied to the hall management computer, for example (step S29).

  Further, the CPU 56 executes prize ball processing for setting the number of prize balls based on detection signals from the start port switch 13a, the count switch 23, and the prize opening switches 29a, 30a, 33a, and 39a (step S30). Specifically, the payout control mounted on the payout control board 37 in response to winning detection based on any of the start opening switch 13a, the count switch 23, and the winning opening switches 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a being turned on. The payout control command (prize ball number signal) indicating the number of prize balls is output to the microcomputer. The payout control microcomputer drives the ball payout device 97 in response to a payout control command indicating the number of winning balls.

  In this embodiment, a RAM area (output port buffer) corresponding to the output state of the output port is provided. However, the CPU 56 relates to on / off of the solenoid in the RAM area corresponding to the output state of the output port. The contents are output to the output port (step S31: output process).

  Further, the CPU 56 performs special symbol display control processing for setting special symbol display control data for effect display of the special symbol in the output buffer for setting the special symbol display control data according to the value of the special symbol process flag ( Step S32). For example, if the variation speed is 1 frame / 0.2 seconds until the end flag is set when the start flag set in the special symbol process is set, the CPU 56, for example, every 0.2 seconds passes. Then, the value of the display control data set in the output buffer is incremented by one. Further, the CPU 56 performs variable display of the special symbol on the special symbol display 8 by outputting a drive signal in step S22 according to the display control data set in the output buffer.

  Further, the CPU 56 performs a normal symbol display control process for setting normal symbol display control data for effect display of the normal symbol in an output buffer for setting the normal symbol display control data according to the value of the normal symbol process flag ( Step S33). For example, when the start flag related to the variation of the normal symbol is set, the CPU 56 switches the display state (“◯” and “×”) for the variation rate of the normal symbol every 0.2 seconds until the end flag is set. With such a speed, the value of the display control data set in the output buffer (for example, 1 indicating “◯” and 0 indicating “x”) is switched every 0.2 seconds. Further, the CPU 56 outputs a normal signal on the normal symbol display 10 by outputting a drive signal in step S22 according to the display control data set in the output buffer.

  Thereafter, the interrupt permission state is set (step S34), and the process is terminated.

  With the above control, in this embodiment, the game control process is started every 2 ms. The game control process corresponds to the processes in steps S21 to S33 (excluding step S29) in the timer interrupt process. In this embodiment, the game control process is executed by the timer interrupt process. However, in the timer interrupt process, for example, only a flag indicating that an interrupt has occurred is set, and the game control process is performed by the main process. May be executed.

  FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing a jackpot determination table. The jackpot determination table is a table in which a jackpot determination value to be compared with the random R is set. The jackpot determination table includes a normal jackpot determination table (see FIG. 8 (A)) used in a normal state (a gaming state that is not a probability change state) and a probability change jackpot determination table (see FIG. 8 (B)) used in a probability change state. ) The numerical values described in the left column of FIGS. 8A and 8B are jackpot determination values. The CPU 56 extracts the count value of the random number circuit 503 at a predetermined time and sets the extracted value as the value of the jackpot determination random number (random R). If it matches the big hit determination value, it is decided to make a big hit (probability big hit or normal big hit) for the special symbol. The “probability” shown in FIG. 8 indicates the probability (ratio) that a normal big hit, a probabilistic big hit, and a loss occur. Further, determining whether or not to win a jackpot means determining whether or not to shift to the jackpot gaming state, but determining whether or not the stop symbol in the special symbol display 8 is a jackpot symbol. It is also a thing.

  The probable big hit is a big hit that shifts the gaming state after the big hit game to a probable state where there is a high probability of being determined to be a big hit compared to the normal state. The normal big hit is a big hit that causes the game state after the big hit game to shift to a normal state that is not a probable change state or that maintains the normal state.

  FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram of an effect execution determination table. The effect execution determination table is stored in the ROM 54 in the game control microcomputer 560, and the effect execution determination value that the CPU 56 compares with the value of random 6 (random number for determining the effect execution) is set. When the extracted random 6 matches one of the effect execution determination values, the CPU 56 determines to execute the first effect in the promotion effect. In this embodiment, it is determined that the first effect is executed at the same rate regardless of whether or not to make a big hit, and whether or not to make a promising big hit, The ratio of executing the first effect may be changed depending on whether or not to make a big hit and whether or not to make a promising big hit.

  FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a relationship between a special symbol stop symbol (final stop symbol) and a gaming state controlled thereafter. In the example shown in FIG. 10, when the stop symbol is an even symbol, the game is out of the game. When the stop symbol is an odd symbol, it is a big hit, and after the end of the change of the special symbol, the game shifts to the big hit game state. In this embodiment, the special symbol stop symbol is not divided into the probability variation big hit and the normal big hit. Therefore, the player cannot grasp the change of the gaming state from the stop symbol. The effect control microcomputer 100 performs a promotion effect for notifying of a probable big hit by an electrical component provided in the gaming machine at a predetermined time. Therefore, since the player can grasp the change of the gaming state only by the promotion effect, the interest of the game is improved. However, although it is difficult for the player to determine whether the special symbol is a big hit or a normal big hit, it may be displayed separately. In that case, it may be impossible to determine whether the stop symbol of the effect symbol (decoration symbol) is a probable big hit or a normal big hit.

  FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the stop symbol (final stop symbol) of the effect symbol (decorative symbol). In the example shown in FIG. 11, in the case of a big hit, a combination of symbols (matched symbol combination) is stopped and displayed on the effect display device 9 as a stop symbol of the left middle right effect symbol, but not a big hit. In the case of reaching, a combination of only the left and right symbols as stop symbols of the middle left and right effect symbols is stopped and displayed on the effect display device 9. When it is a case of losing and not reaching, a combination in which the left and right symbols do not match is stopped and displayed on the effect display device 9 as a stop symbol of the left middle right effect symbol. The effect symbols (decorative symbols) that are variably displayed and stopped on the effect display device 9 are numbers, alphabets, character-like symbols, symbols in which numbers or the like are displayed in the character-like display object, and any other symbols. It may be a symbol. In addition, it is the same as the case of a special symbol that the stop symbol of an effect design (decoration design) is not divided by probability variation big hit and normal big hit.

  FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the variation pattern (variation time) of the special symbol and the effect symbol (decoration symbol) used in this embodiment. The variation pattern indicates the variation time of the special symbol and the production symbol, but since the variation of the production symbol is synchronized with the variation of the special symbol, hereinafter, the variation pattern of the special symbol and the production symbol are simply described below. It may be expressed as a variation pattern.

  As shown in FIG. 12, in this embodiment, variation pattern # 1 (variation time 22 seconds), variation pattern # 2 (variation time 22 seconds), variation pattern # 3 (variation time 11 seconds), variation pattern # 4 In the first 4 seconds of the (variation time of 11 seconds), high-speed fluctuation (the displayed symbol switching timing is short) is performed. When 4 seconds have elapsed from the start of the variation, the same symbol is stopped and displayed as the left and right effect symbols (decorative symbols), and thereafter the middle symbol varies. Meanwhile, in the effect display device 9, a reach effect is executed by a character image or the like other than a design, and a reach effect synchronized with the effect in the effect display device 9 is executed by a light emitter such as an LED for the effect and the speaker 27. The

  In the variation pattern # 2 and the variation pattern # 4, the first effect is executed in the high-speed change period and the reach effect period. In this embodiment, the first effect is executed even during the high-speed fluctuation period. However, the first effect may be started after the reach effect period is started.

  The fluctuation pattern # 5 is a fluctuation pattern in which only high-speed fluctuation for 4 seconds is executed. When 4 seconds have elapsed from the start of the change, the left middle right effect symbol (decorative symbol) is stopped and displayed. The fluctuation pattern # 5 is used when it is determined that the stop symbol is not a jackpot symbol.

  The fluctuation pattern # 6 is a fluctuation pattern in which only high-speed fluctuation for 2 seconds is executed. When 2 seconds have elapsed from the start of the fluctuation, the left middle right effect symbol (decorative symbol) is stopped and displayed. The variation pattern # 6 is used as a variation pattern when the gaming state is a short time state.

  FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the contents of the effect control command transmitted by the game control microcomputer 560. In the example shown in FIG. 13, commands 8001 (H) to 8006 (H) specify an effect designating a variation pattern of effect symbols (decorative symbols) variably displayed on the effect display device 9 in response to variable symbol special display. This is a control command (variation pattern command) (corresponding to variation patterns # 1 to # 6, respectively). “(H)” indicates a hexadecimal number. The effect control command for designating the variation pattern is also a command for designating the start of variation. Therefore, when the effect control microcomputer 100 receives any of the commands 8001 (H) to 8006 (H), the effect display device 9 controls the effect display device 9 to start variable display of the effect symbols (decorative symbols).

  The commands 8C01 (H) to 8C03 (H) are effect control commands indicating whether or not to make a big hit and the type of the big hit game. The production control microcomputer 100 determines the display result of the production symbol (decoration symbol) in response to the reception of the commands 8C01 (H) to 8C03 (H), so the commands 8C01 (H) to 8C03 (H) This is called a specified command or a display result specifying command. However, as described above, in this embodiment, the display result of the effect symbol (decorative symbol) is not distinguished between the case of the normal big hit and the case of the probability variation big hit.

  Command 8F00 (H) is an effect control command (symbol confirmation designation command) indicating that the variable display (fluctuation) of the effect symbol (decoration symbol) is terminated and the display result (stop symbol) is derived and displayed. When receiving the symbol confirmation designation command, the effect control microcomputer 100 ends the variable display (fluctuation) of the effect symbol (decoration symbol) and derives and displays the display result.

  Command 9000 (H) is an effect control command (initialization designation command: power-on designation command) transmitted when power supply to the gaming machine is started. Commands 9200 (H) to 9204 (H) are production control commands (power failure recovery designation commands) transmitted when power supply to the gaming machine is resumed. When the power supply to the gaming machine is started, the gaming control microcomputer 560 stores a power failure recovery designation command when data is stored in the backup RAM (the backup flag may be set). If not, an initialization designation command is transmitted.

  The game control microcomputer 560 transmits different power failure recovery designation commands depending on the state when the power supply is stopped. That is, in the process of step S43 shown in FIG. 5, if it is determined that the special effect is changing and the first effect has not been executed based on the data stored in the backup RAM, the command 9201 is displayed. (H) Power failure recovery designation command is transmitted. When the special effect is changing and the first effect is being executed, a power failure recovery designation command of command 9202 (H) is transmitted. When the big hit game is being performed and the second effect has not been executed, a power failure recovery designation command of command 9203 (H) is transmitted. In the case of a big hit game and executing the second effect, a power failure recovery designation command of command 9204 (H) is transmitted. In other cases, a power failure recovery designation command of command 9200 (H) is transmitted. The CPU 56 determines whether or not the first effect and the second effect have been executed based on whether or not the first effect flag and the second effect flag in the backup RAM area are set. Further, as the power failure recovery designation command, a command indicating whether or not the special symbol is changing and a command indicating whether or not the first effect has been executed may be used. Moreover, you may use the command which shows whether it was in the big hit game, and the command which shows whether the 2nd production was performed.

  Further, although the name of the power failure recovery designation command is used, the game control microcomputer 560 starts from a power failure when data is stored in the backup RAM when power supply to the gaming machine is started. Send a power failure recovery designation command not only when it is recovered. The backup RAM also stores a probability variation flag and a probability variation jackpot flag (information indicating that it has been decided to establish a special condition). Therefore, the fact that data is stored in the backup RAM includes that information related to a game that can specify that it has been decided to establish the special condition is stored in the backup RAM.

  Command 9500 (H) is an effect control command (normal background designation command) indicating that the gaming state is the normal state. The command 9501 (H) is an effect control command (short time background designation command) indicating that the gaming state is the short time state. Command 9502 (H) is an effect control command (probability change background designation command) indicating that the gaming state is a probability change state. In response to receiving these background designation commands (game state designation commands), the effect control microcomputer 100 sets the background on the display screen of the effect display device 9 as the background corresponding to the game state indicated by the background designation command.

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

  The command A001 (H) is an effect control command for displaying the fanfare screen, that is, designating the start of the big hit game (big hit start designation command: fanfare command). The command A1XX (H) is an effect control command (special command during opening of a big winning opening) indicating a display during the opening of the big winning opening for the number of times (round) indicated by XX. A2XX (H) is an effect control command (designation command after opening the big winning opening) indicating the closing of the big winning opening for the number of times (round) indicated by XX.

  Command A301 (H) is an effect control command (a jackpot end designation command: an ending command) that designates displaying a jackpot end screen, that is, designating the end of the jackpot game.

  14 and 15 are explanatory diagrams illustrating an example of the transmission timing of the effect control command. As shown in FIG. 14 (A), the game control microcomputer 560 starts the background designating command, the variation pattern command, and the production design designation command (production design 1 designation command, production design 2 designation command or production design) at the start of variation. 3 designation command) is transmitted. When the variable display time (fluctuation time) elapses, a symbol confirmation designation command is transmitted.

  FIG. 14B shows an example in the big hit game. The game control microcomputer 560 transmits a jackpot start designation command at the start of a big hit game, transmits a big prize opening opening designation command at the start of each round, and designates a command after opening the big prize opening at the end of each round. When the jackpot game ends, a jackpot end designation command and an effect symbol designation command (an effect symbol 1 designation command, an effect symbol 2 designation command or an effect symbol 3 designation command) are transmitted. Note that the type of effect symbol designation command to be transmitted is the same as the type of effect symbol designation command transmitted at the start of variation.

  FIG. 15A shows an example when power supply is started (when power is turned on). The game control microcomputer 560 transmits a power-on specification command and a background specification command, and then transmits a customer waiting demonstration specification command.

  FIG. 15B shows an example when power supply is resumed (when power failure is restored). After transmitting the power-on designation command background designation command, the game control microcomputer 560 sends the presentation symbol designation command (the last designation symbol designation command transmitted before the power supply is stopped) stored in the backup RAM area. An effect designating command based on the indicated data is transmitted.

  FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a special symbol process (step S26) program executed by the game control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) mounted on the main board 31. As described above, in the special symbol process, a process for controlling the special symbol display 8 and the special winning opening is executed. In the special symbol process, the CPU 56 performs the start opening switch passing process if the start opening switch 13a for detecting that the game ball has won the start winning opening 13 is turned on, that is, if a start winning is generated. Execute (Steps S311 and S312). Then, any one of steps S300 to S307 is performed.

  The processes in steps S300 to S307 are as follows.

  Special symbol normal processing (step S300): Executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is zero. When the game control microcomputer 560 is ready to start the variable display of the special symbol, it checks the number of reserved memories (the number of start winning memories). The reserved memory number can be confirmed by the count value of the reserved memory number counter. If the number of reserved memories is not 0, it is determined whether or not to win. When it is decided not to make a big hit, the off symbol is decided as the stop symbol of the special symbol display 8. When it is decided to make a big hit, the big hit symbol is decided. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (1 in this example) corresponding to step S301.

  Fluctuation pattern setting process (step S301): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 1. The game control microcomputer 560 determines the variation pattern and displays the variation time in the variation pattern (variable display time: the time from the start of variable display until the display result is derived and displayed (stop display)) in a special pattern. The variable display time is determined. Also, it is determined whether or not to execute the first effect. Then, a variation time timer for measuring the variation time of the special symbol is started. Thereafter, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (2 in this example) corresponding to step S302.

  Production symbol designation command transmission processing (step S302): This is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 2. Control for transmitting an effect designating command to the effect control microcomputer 100 is performed. When it is decided not to make a big hit, an effect design 1 designation command for designating the disparity is transmitted. When it is decided to make a normal big hit, an effect design 2 designation command for designating a normal big hit is transmitted. When it is determined that the probability variation jackpot is to be determined, an effect design 3 designation command for designating the probability variation jackpot is transmitted. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (3 in this example) corresponding to step S303.

  Special symbol changing process (step S303): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 3. When the variation time of the variation pattern selected in the variation pattern setting process elapses (the variation time timer set in step S301 times out, that is, the variation time timer value becomes 0), the internal state (special symbol process flag) is stepped. Update to a value corresponding to S304 (4 in this example).

  Special symbol stop process (step S304): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 4. The variable display on the special symbol display 8 is stopped and the stop symbol is derived and displayed. In addition, control for transmitting a symbol confirmation designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 is performed. If the big hit flag is set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (5 in this example) corresponding to step S305. When the big hit flag is not set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (0 in this example) corresponding to step S300. The effect control microcomputer 100 controls the effect display device 9 to stop the effect symbol (decoration symbol) when the symbol confirmation designation command transmitted by the game control microcomputer 560 is received.

  Preliminary winning opening opening process (step S305): This is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 5. In the pre-opening process for the big prize opening, control for opening the big prize opening is performed. Specifically, a counter (for example, a counter that counts the number of game balls that have entered the big prize opening) is initialized, and the solenoid 21 is driven to open the big prize opening. Also, the execution time of the special prize opening opening process is set by the timer, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S306 (6 in this example). The pre-opening process for the big winning opening is executed for each round, but when the first round is started, the pre-opening process for the big winning opening is also a process for starting the big hit game.

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

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

  FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing the start port switch passing process in step S312. In the start port switch passing process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the reserved storage number is 4 which is the upper limit value (step S211). If the number of reserved memories is 4, the process is terminated.

  If the number of reserved memories is not 4, the value of the reserved memory number counter indicating the number of reserved memories is incremented by 1 (step S212). Further, the CPU 56 extracts software random numbers (counter value for generating a big hit symbol determination random number, etc.) and random R (big hit determination random number), and uses them as an extracted random number value of the reserved memory number counter. A process of storing in the storage area in the storage buffer corresponding to the value is executed (step S213). In step S213, the CPU 56 extracts random values 1 to 4, 6 (see FIG. 7) as software random numbers. In the reserved storage buffer, the same number of storage areas as the upper limit value of the number of reserved memories is secured. Further, a counter for generating a jackpot symbol determination random number and the like and a reserved storage buffer are formed in the RAM 55. “Formed in RAM” means an area in the RAM.

  18 and 19 are flowcharts showing the special symbol normal process (step S300) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol normal process, the game control microcomputer 560 causes the CPU 56 to check the value of the number of reserved memories (step S51). Specifically, the count value of the pending storage number counter is confirmed. If the number of reserved memories is 0, the process is terminated.

  If the reserved memory number is not 0, the CPU 56 reads each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the reserved memory number = 1 in the reserved memory number buffer of the RAM 55 and stores it in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55 (step S52). Then, the value of the reserved memory number is decreased by 1 (the count value of the reserved memory number counter is decremented by 1), and the contents of each storage area are shifted (step S53). That is, each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the reserved memory number = n (n = 2, 3, 4) in the reserved memory number buffer of the RAM 55 is stored in the storage area corresponding to the reserved memory number = n−1. To store. Therefore, the order in which the random number values stored in the respective storage areas corresponding to the number of reserved memories is extracted always matches the order of the number of reserved memories = 1, 2, 3 and 4. Yes.

  Then, the CPU 56 reads the big hit determination random number from the random number buffer area (step S61), and executes the big hit determination process (step S62). The jackpot determination process is configured such that when the gaming state is a probable change state (high probability state), the probability of a big hit is higher than when the gaming state is a non-probability change state (normal game state and short-time state). ing. Specifically, the probability change jackpot determination table (see FIG. 8 (B)) in which a large number of jackpot determination values are set in advance and the number of jackpot determination values are set to be smaller than those in the probability variation jackpot determination table. An hourly big hit determination table (see FIG. 8A) is provided. Then, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the gaming state is a probability variation state. If the gaming state is a probability variation state, the jackpot determination process is performed using the probability variation jackpot determination table, and the gaming state is normal. When in the gaming state, the big hit determination process is performed using the normal big hit determination table. That is, when the value of the big hit determination random number (random R) matches any of the big hit determination values shown in FIG. 8, the CPU 56 determines that the special symbol is a big hit (probability big hit or normal big hit).

  Note that whether or not the current gaming state is the probability variation state is determined by whether or not the probability variation flag is set. The probability variation flag is set when the gaming state is shifted to the probability variation state, and is reset when the probability variation state is terminated. Specifically, it is set in a process for ending a big hit game with a probable change symbol, and is set in a process for ending the big hit game with a non-probable change symbol.

  When it is determined to be a big hit in the big hit determination process (step S63), the CPU 56 sets a big hit flag (step S71). Next, the CPU 56 reads the value of the jackpot symbol determining random number from the random number buffer area (step S72), and determines the stop symbol based on the value of the jackpot symbol determining random number (step S73). In addition, it is confirmed whether or not it is determined to be a probability variation big hit as the type of jackpot (step S74). If it is determined to be a probability variation big hit, a probability variation big hit flag is set (step S75), and the process proceeds to step S70.

  If it is decided not to win the game, the CPU 56 reads out the value of the random symbol for determining the out-of-sequence from the random number buffer area (step S64), and determines the stop symbol based on the value of the random number for determining out-of-sequence (step S65). ).

  Further, when the time reduction flag indicating the time reduction state is set (step S66), the value of the time reduction counter indicating the number of times the special symbol can be changed in the time reduction state is decremented by 1 (step S67). When the value of the time reduction counter becomes 0, a time reduction end flag is set in order to shift the gaming state to the non-time reduction state when the variable display ends (steps S68 and S69). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern setting process (step S301) (step S70).

  FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing the variation pattern setting process (step S301) in the special symbol process. In the variation pattern setting process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the big hit flag is set (step S100), and if the big hit flag is not set, reads the value of the reach determination random number from the random number buffer area (step S100). S103), it is determined whether or not to reach based on the value of the reach determination random number (step S104). In the process of step S103, if the value of the reach determination random number matches any of the predetermined reach determination values, it is determined to reach. Then, data indicating whether or not to reach is stored in the RAM 55. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S105.

  When the big hit flag is set, the value of the random number for effect execution determination is read from the random number buffer area (step S101), and it is determined whether or not to execute the first effect based on the value of the random number for effect execution determination. (Step S105). Specifically, when the value of the random number for effect execution determination matches one of the effect execution determination values shown in FIG. 9, it is determined to execute the first effect. Then, data indicating whether or not to execute the first effect is stored in the RAM 55. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S105.

  In step S105, the CPU 56 reads the value of the random number for determining the variation pattern from the random number buffer area. Then, the variation pattern to be used is determined based on the value of the variation pattern determination random number (step S106).

  Specifically, when the big hit flag is not set, when it is not determined to reach, the variation pattern # 5 or the variation pattern # 6 illustrated in FIG. 12 is determined. When it is decided to reach, the fluctuation pattern is determined using the deviation fluctuation pattern table. The deviation variation pattern table is stored in the ROM 54, and variation pattern determination values corresponding to the variation patterns # 1 to # 4 are set in the deviation variation pattern table. The CPU 56 determines a variation pattern corresponding to the variation pattern determination value that matches the variation pattern determination random number. Note that the variation pattern determination value is set so that the variation pattern # 2 or # 4 is selected with the probability (9/179) shown in FIG.

  In addition, when the big hit flag is set, when it is decided to execute the first effect, the fluctuation pattern is determined using the first effect change pattern table at the big hit. The first effect variation pattern table for the big hit is stored in the ROM 54, and the variation pattern determination value corresponding to the variation pattern # 2 and the variation pattern determination value corresponding to the variation pattern # 4 are stored in the first effect variation pattern table for the big hit. Is set. The CPU 56 determines a variation pattern corresponding to the variation pattern determination value that matches the variation pattern determination random number. When it is not determined to execute the first effect, the variation pattern is determined using the big hit reach variation pattern table. The big hit hour reach fluctuation pattern table is stored in the ROM 54. In the big hit hour reach fluctuation pattern table, a fluctuation pattern judgment value corresponding to the fluctuation pattern # 1 and a fluctuation pattern judgment value corresponding to the fluctuation pattern # 3 are set. . The CPU 56 determines a variation pattern corresponding to the variation pattern determination value that matches the variation pattern determination random number.

  And CPU56 performs control which transmits the background designation | designated command (refer FIG. 13) according to a game state to the microcomputer 100 for production control (step S107). Specifically, when the CPU 56 transmits an effect control command to the effect control microcomputer 100, the address of the command transmission table (preliminarily set for each command in the ROM) corresponding to the effect control command is used as a pointer. set. And the address of the command transmission table according to an effect control command is set to a pointer, and an effect control command is transmitted in an effect control command control process (step S28). The CPU 56 determines the gaming state based on whether or not a probability change flag or a time reduction flag is set. In other words, if the probability change flag is set, it is in the probability change state and the background specification command is transmitted at the time of probability change, and if the time reduction flag is set, it is in the time reduction state and the time reduction background specification command is transmitted. In other cases, a normal background designation command is transmitted.

  Further, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a variation pattern command (see FIG. 13) corresponding to the variation pattern selected in step S106 to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S108). Further, data indicating the transmitted variation pattern command is set (written) in the RAM 55 (step S109). When a variation pattern command with the first effect is transmitted, the first effect flag is set in a predetermined area of the RAM 55. That is, the command output means in the game control means outputs an effect control command capable of specifying execution of the first effect, and the game control means outputs the first effect when the command output means outputs the effect control command. May be stored in the storage means. According to such a configuration, it is possible to immediately determine whether or not to execute the second effect based on the data stored in the storage unit.

  In this embodiment, the game control microcomputer 560 designates whether or not to execute the first effect with the variation pattern command to the effect control microcomputer 100. However, the game control microcomputer 560 may specify whether or not to execute the first effect by a command different from the variation pattern command (for example, an effect control command that specifies execution of the first effect). .

  Then, the variation of the special symbol is started (step S110). For example, a start flag referred to in the special symbol display control process in step S33 is set. Further, a value corresponding to the variation time (see FIG. 12) corresponding to the selected variation pattern is set in the variation time timer formed in the RAM 55 (step S111). Thereafter, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the effect symbol designation command transmission process (step S302) (step S112).

  FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing the effect symbol designation command transmission process (step S302). In the effect symbol designation command transmission processing, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit any effect control command (see FIG. 13) of 8C01 (H) to 8C03 (H) according to the determined type of jackpot. . Specifically, the CPU 56 first checks whether or not the big hit flag is set (step S114). If it is not set, control is performed to transmit a production symbol 1 designation command (offset designation command) (step S115). Then, control goes to a step S119.

  When the big hit flag is set, when the probability variation big hit flag is set, control is performed to transmit the production symbol 3 designation command (probability variation big hit designation command) to the production control microcomputer 100 (steps S116 and S118). When the probability variation jackpot flag is not set, control is performed to transmit the effect symbol 2 designation command (normal jackpot designation command) to the effect control microcomputer 100 (steps S116 and S117). Then, control goes to a step S119. As described above, the game control microcomputer 560 transmits the design symbol 3 designation command if it is predetermined to be a probable big hit, and otherwise, the design symbol 1 designation command or the production symbol. 2 Send a specified command. Therefore, in the effect control microcomputer 100, the game control microcomputer 560 makes a probable big hit based on the received effect symbol designation command (effect symbol 1 designation command, effect symbol 2 designation command or effect symbol 3 designation command). In particular, it is possible to specify what has been decided beforehand.

  In step S119, the CPU 56 sets the data indicating the effect symbol designation command transmitted in the processing of steps S115, S117, and S118 in the RAM 55, and sets the internal state (special symbol process flag) to the special symbol changing process (step S303). The corresponding value is updated (step S120).

  FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing the special symbol changing process (step S303) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol changing process, the CPU 56 decrements the variable time timer by 1 (step S121), and when the variable time timer times out (step S122), the value of the special symbol process flag corresponds to the special symbol stop process (step S304). The updated value is updated (step S123). If the variable time timer has not timed out, the process ends.

  FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing the special symbol variation stop process (step S304) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol variation stop process, the CPU 56 stops the variation of the special symbol in the special symbol display 8 and derives and displays the stopped symbol (step S130). Further, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a symbol confirmation designation command for designating the stop of the variation of the decorative symbols in the effect display device 9 to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S131). And it is confirmed whether the big hit flag is set (step S132). If the big hit flag is not set, the process proceeds to step S141 (step S133).

  When the big hit flag is set, the CPU 56 resets the probability variation flag (step S133), and performs control to transmit a big hit start designation command (fanfare command) (step S134). Further, control is performed to transmit the effect designating command corresponding to the data indicating the effect designating command stored in the RAM 55 (see step S119) to the effect controlling microcomputer 100 (step S135). The effect symbol designation command transmitted by the process of step S135 is an effect symbol 2 designation command (normal jackpot designation command) or an effect symbol 3 designation command (probability variation jackpot designation command). If the first effect flag is set, the first effect flag is reset, and the second effect flag is set in a predetermined area of the RAM 55. That is, when data indicating that the first effect is executed is stored in the storage means, the game control means clears the data and stores data indicating that the second effect is executed in the storage means. You may make it do. According to such a configuration, it is possible to immediately determine whether or not the second effect is being executed based on the data stored in the storage unit.

  Also, a value corresponding to the big hit display time (time for notifying the fact that the big hit has occurred, for example, in the effect display device 9) is set in the big hit display time timer (step S136). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the pre-winner opening pre-processing (step S305) (step S137).

  In step S141, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the time reduction end flag is set. If the time reduction end flag is set, the time reduction end flag is reset and the time reduction flag is reset (steps S142 and S143). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special symbol normal process (step S300) (step S144).

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

  In the process during opening of the big prize opening, the CPU 56 does not finish the final round when the big prize opening time timer times out or the number of winning balls to the big prize opening reaches a predetermined number (for example, 10). In this case, control for closing the special winning opening is performed, a value corresponding to the interval time is set in the interval timer, and the value of the special symbol process flag is set to a value corresponding to the pre-opening process for the special winning opening (step S305). Update. When the final round is completed, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the jackpot end process (step S307).

  FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing the jackpot end process (step S307) in the special symbol process. In the jackpot end process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the jackpot end display timer is set (step S170). If the jackpot end display timer is set, the process proceeds to step S181. If the big hit end display timer is not set, a time reduction flag is set to shift the gaming state to the time reduction state (step S171), and 100 is set in the time reduction counter (step S172).

  Further, the big hit flag is reset (step S173), and a control for transmitting a big hit end designation command (ending command) is performed (step S174). If the probability variation jackpot flag is set, the probability variation jackpot flag is reset (steps S176 and S177), and the probability variation flag is set to shift the gaming state to the probability variation state (step S178). Then, a value corresponding to the display time corresponding to the time during which the big hit end display is performed in the effect display device 9 (big hit end display time) is set in the big hit end display timer (step S179), and the processing is ended.

  In step S181, 1 is subtracted from the value of the big hit end display timer. Then, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the jackpot end display timer is 0, that is, whether or not the jackpot end display time has elapsed (step S182). If not, the process ends. If it has elapsed, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special symbol normal process (step S300) (step S183).

  Next, the operation of the effect control means will be described. FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing main processing executed by the effect control microcomputer 100 (specifically, effect control CPU 101) as effect control means mounted on the effect control board 80. The effect control CPU 101 starts executing the main process when the power is turned on. In the main processing, first, initialization processing is performed for clearing the RAM area, setting various initial values, and initializing a timer for determining the activation control activation interval (for example, 2 ms) (step S701). . Thereafter, the effect control CPU 101 proceeds to a loop process for monitoring a timer interrupt flag (step S702). When a timer interrupt occurs, the effect control CPU 101 sets a timer interrupt flag in the timer interrupt process. If the timer interrupt flag is set in the main process, the effect control CPU 101 clears the flag (step S703) and executes the following effect control process.

  In the effect control process, the effect control CPU 101 first analyzes the received effect control command and performs a process of setting a flag according to the received effect control command (command analysis process: step S704). Next, the effect control CPU 101 performs effect control process processing (step S705). In the effect control process, the process corresponding to the current control state (effect control process flag) is selected from the processes corresponding to the control state, and display control of the effect display device 9 is executed.

  Next, a random number update process for updating the count value of a counter for generating random numbers such as a stop symbol determination random number, a first effect type selection random number, a second effect type selection random number, or the like is executed (step S706). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S702.

  FIG. 26 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of a command reception buffer for storing the effect control command received from the game control microcomputer 560 of the main board 31. In this example, a command reception buffer of a ring buffer type capable of storing six 2-byte configuration effect control commands is used. Therefore, the command reception buffer is configured by a 12-byte area of reception command buffers 1 to 12. A command reception number counter indicating in which area the received command is stored is used. The command reception number counter takes a value from 0 to 11. The ring buffer format is not necessarily required.

  The effect control command transmitted from the game control microcomputer 560 is received by an interrupt process based on the effect control INT signal, and is stored in a buffer area formed in the RAM 112. In the command analysis process, it is analyzed which command (see FIG. 13) is the effect control command stored in the buffer area.

  FIG. 27 is a flowchart showing the initialization process in step S701. In the initialization process, the effect control CPU 101 initializes the contents of the RAM 112 in the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S711). Next, the initial address of the initialization setting table stored in the ROM 111 is set as a pointer (step S712), and the contents of the initialization setting table are sequentially set in the work area in the RAM 112 (step S713). The initial values of the data necessary for effect control are set by the processing of steps S712 and S713. In particular, data indicating the character P is set in the first effect character buffer 112a (see FIG. 3) in the RAM 112, and the second Data indicating the character A is set in the effect character buffer 112b (see FIG. 3). Next, the circuit built in the production control microcomputer 100 is initialized (step S714). In particular, the timer circuit built in the production control microcomputer 100 is initialized so that a timer interrupt is periodically generated every predetermined time (for example, 2 ms). Also, the VDP 109 is initialized (step S715).

  28 and 29 are flowcharts showing a specific example of the command analysis processing (step S704). The effect control command received from the main board 31 is stored in the reception command buffer, but in the command analysis process, the effect control CPU 101 confirms the content of the command stored in the command reception buffer.

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

  If the received effect control command is a background designation command (step S614), the effect control CPU 101 stores the background designation command in the background designation command storage area formed in the RAM 112 (step S615).

  If the received effect control command is a variation pattern command (step S616), the effect control CPU 101 stores the variation pattern command in a variation pattern command storage area formed in the RAM 112 (step S617). Then, a variation pattern command reception flag is set (step S618).

  If the received effect control command is an effect symbol designation command (step S619), the effect control CPU 101 sends the effect symbol designation command (effect symbol 1 designation command, effect symbol 2 designation command or effect symbol 3 designation command), The effect designating command storage area formed in the RAM 112 is stored (step S620).

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

  If the received effect control command is a jackpot start designation command (fanfare command) (step S623), the effect control CPU 101 sets a fanfare command reception flag (step S624).

  If the received effect control command is a power-on specification command (initialization specification command) (step S631), the effect control CPU 101 displays an initial screen on the effect display device 9 indicating that the initialization process has been executed. Control is performed (step S632). The initial screen includes an initial display of predetermined production symbols.

  If the received effect control command is a power failure recovery designation command (step S633), a predetermined power failure recovery screen (screen for displaying information notifying the player that the gaming state is continuing) is displayed. Display control is performed (step S634), and the received power failure recovery designation command is stored in the power failure recovery designation command storage area formed in the RAM 112 (step S635).

  Further, when the received power failure recovery designation command is a command (9201 (H) or 9202 (H): see FIG. 13) that designates that it is changing, the value of the production symbol process flag is set to the production symbol. A value corresponding to the change start process is set (steps S636 and S637). Also, if the received power failure recovery designation command is a command designating that a jackpot game is being played (9203 (H) or 9204 (H): see FIG. 13), the value of the production symbol process flag is set to the jackpot A value corresponding to the in-game process is set (steps S638 and S639). When the game control microcomputer 560 is configured to determine the type of the first effect and the type of the second effect, the CPU 56 uses the first effect type (character P as a power failure recovery designation command). (9p), character Q (9q), character R (9r), character S (9s)) and the type of second effect (character A (9a), character B (9b), character C (9c)) A control command may be transmitted.

  If the received effect control command is a jackpot end designation command (ending command) (step S645), the effect control CPU 101 sets an ending command reception flag (step S646).

  The RAM 112 in the effect control microcomputer 100 is not backed up. The RAM 55 in the game control microcomputer 560 is backed up, and when the contents of the RAM 55 are stored in the state before the occurrence of a power failure or the like at the time of recovery from a power failure or the like, the data indicating the game state stored in the RAM 55 is stored. A type of power failure recovery designation command according to (for example, the value of the special symbol process flag) is transmitted (see step S43 in FIG. 5). And the control state of the production control microcomputer 100 is restored to the state before the occurrence of a power failure or the like by the processes of steps S636 to S639.

  Next, the promotion effects (first effect and second effect) will be described. FIG. 30 is an explanatory diagram regarding selection of the type of the first effect. FIG. 31 is an explanatory diagram regarding the selection of the type of the second effect, and is an explanatory diagram showing the expectation of each type of the first effect and the combination of the type of the first effect and the type of the second effect. FIG. 32 is an explanatory diagram showing the type of the first effect and the type of the second effect.

  Specifically, FIG. 30 is an explanatory diagram showing determination values that are compared with the value of the first effect type selection random number and that correspond to the first effect type. In this embodiment, there are four types that use each of the characters P to Q as the types of first effects. However, FIG. 30 shows the number of determination values, not specific determination values. The determination values are set as a table in the ROM of the production control microcomputer 100. The table is provided in accordance with the result determined by the game control microcomputer 560 (the determination result of the prior determination means). The effect control microcomputer 100 determines the result determined by the pre-determining means in the game control microcomputer 560 by the received effect designating command (an example of a command that can specify the display result of the variable display of the identification information). be able to.

  In the example shown in FIG. 30, when it is determined to be out of play, the character R (選 択) is selected at a higher rate than when it is determined to be a big hit, and the character Q (chicken) ) And the character S (蟹) are selected at a low rate. In addition, when it is determined to be a big hit, when it is determined to be a probable big hit, the character S (蟹) is selected compared to when it is normally determined to be a big hit. The ratio is high. That is, each of the characters P to Q is selected according to both the degree of expectation of jackpot and the degree of expectation of probability variation promotion. In other words, each of the characters P to Q shows both the jackpot expectation and the probability variation promotion expectation.

  Specifically, FIG. 31 is an explanatory diagram showing determination values that are compared with the value of the second effect type selection random number and that correspond to each of the second effect types. In this embodiment, there are three types of characters that are used for the characters A to C as the types of second effects. However, FIG. 31 shows the number of determination values, not specific determination values. The determination values are set as a table in the ROM of the production control microcomputer 100. Further, the production control microcomputer 100 normally uses the table illustrated in FIG. 31A when it is determined to be a big hit, and if it is determined to be a probable big hit, FIG. 31B. The table shown as an example is used.

  The determination value is assigned to each of the characters A to C in accordance with the type of the first effect. In other words, the production control microcomputer 100 determines the type of the second effect based on the type of the first effect and the determination result of the prior decision means (whether it is a probable big hit or a normal big hit).

  Further, for example, the combination of character Q and character A and the combination of character R and character C are not selected when the jackpot is normally determined. In other words, when it is determined to be a probable big hit, the combination of the character Q and the character A or the combination of the character R and the character C is selected at a high rate (100% in this example).

  FIG. 32A shows the jackpot reliability of the type of first effect based on the jackpot probability shown in FIG. 8, the first effect execution probability shown in FIG. 9, and the ratio of the number of determination values shown in FIG. Yes. That is, the ratio that is a big hit when the first effect using each of the characters P to S is executed is shown. As shown in FIG. 32A, the jackpot reliability of the characters Q and S is higher than the jackpot reliability of the characters P and R. In other words, the production control microcomputer 100 is determined to have a big hit (corresponding to the variable display display result of the identification information as a specific display result) and not to have a big hit. The selection ratio of each of the plurality of types of first effects is different depending on when the character is present, but when it is determined to be a big hit, the characters Q and S are selected at a higher ratio than the characters P and R. .

  FIG. 32B shows the first effect based on the jackpot probability shown in FIG. 8, the first effect execution probability shown in FIG. 9, the ratio of the number of determination values shown in FIG. 30, and the ratio of the number of determination values shown in FIG. The type of promotion confidence is shown. That is, the ratio of the probability variation big hit when the first effect using each of the characters P to S is executed is shown. As shown in FIG. 32B, the promotion reliability of the characters R and S is higher than the big hit reliability of the characters P and Q. In other words, the production control microcomputer 100 determines the selection ratio of each of the first types of plural types depending on whether it is decided to be a probable big hit or a normal big win. Although it is different, when it is determined that the probability big hit is selected, the characters R and S are selected at a higher rate than the characters P and Q. In addition, the ratio that becomes a probable big hit corresponds to the ratio (promotion success percentage) in which the probable big hit is notified in the promotion effect (specifically, the second effect). In addition, failure to be notified of the probable big hit in the promotion effect may be referred to as promotion failure.

  FIG. 32C shows the first effect based on the jackpot probability shown in FIG. 8, the first effect execution probability shown in FIG. 9, the ratio of the number of determination values shown in FIG. 30, and the ratio of the number of determination values shown in FIG. The promotion reliability of the combination of the type and the type of the second effect is shown. That is, the ratio of the probable big hit when the promotion effect using each combination of the first effect type and the second effect type is executed is shown. As shown in FIG. 32C, the combination of character Q and character A, and the combination of character R and character C have the highest promotion reliability, and the combination of character Q and character C, and the combination of character R and character B Has the second highest reliability of promotion.

  In FIG. 33, the type of the first effect (characters P to Q) is shown as “first effect character”, and the type of the second effect (characters A to C) is shown as “second effect character”. . Characters P to Q (character 9p, character q, character r, and character s) and characters A to C (character 9a, character 9b, and character 9c) are character images displayed on the effect display device 9.

  In this embodiment, since there is only one kind of effect for each of the characters P to Q, each of the characters P to Q is set as the type of the first effect, that is, the type of the first effect is set as 4. When there are a plurality of types of effects for each of the characters P to Q, the number of types of first effects is 4 (each of the characters P to Q) × (the number of types of effects of each of the characters P to Q). become.

  Further, since each character A to C has one type of production, each of the characters A to C is set as the type of the second production. Strictly speaking, the characters A to C using the characters P to Q respectively. Since each effect is executed, the number of types of second effects is 12, as shown in FIG. However, combinations that are not executed (combinations corresponding to the number of determination values 0) are provided. In addition, when there are a plurality of types of effects for each of the characters A to C, the number of types of second effects is further increased.

  Next, specific examples of the first effect and the second effect will be described with reference to the explanatory diagrams of FIGS. In the example shown in FIG. 34, on the display screen of the effect display device 9, the first effect using the character 9p (pig) is being executed while the effect symbol (decoration symbol) is changing (FIGS. 34A to 34). E)). When the display effect is made such that the character 9p falls down by the hammer 9f by the main character 9e (see FIG. 34E), after the big hit display is made as shown in FIG. Two effects are executed (see FIGS. 34 (G) to (J)). Note that the effects as shown in FIGS. 34A to 34E correspond to the effects of the variation pattern # 2 or # 4 in FIG. In FIG. 34, the display state of the effect display device 9 is sequentially shifted from the state shown in (A) toward the state shown in (J). The same applies to FIGS.

  In the example shown in FIG. 34, the second effect using the character B is executed (see FIGS. 34 (H) and (I)). In the second effect, the character (character 9p in the example shown in FIG. 34) used in the first effect is used, and another character (the main character 9e) different from the character 9b (Western cook) is the character 9p ( It is a production that confronts with a dish that uses pigs as ingredients. In the example shown in FIG. 34, the state where the main character 9e has completed cooking is shown (see FIG. 34J). Note that the state shown in FIG. 34J is a state in the middle of the second effect.

  35 (K) to (P) show the effects following the effects in the state shown in FIG. 34 (J), and show the second effects in the case of successful promotion. In the example shown in FIG. 35, a state is shown in which the character 9b has completed cooking using the character 9p (pig) as an ingredient (see FIG. 35 (K)). Then, the taster 9g tastes the dish completed by the main character 9e and the dish completed by the character 9b (see FIG. 35 (L)), and the taster 9g gives the main character 9e a high score. An effect is shown in which the character 9e wins and is promoted successfully (see FIGS. 35M to 35P). In FIG. 35 (N), a big hit symbol is displayed in the symbol display area 9A. As described above, the big hit symbol is a combination of symbols that cannot be determined whether it is a probable big hit or a normal big hit. is there.

  36 (K) to (P) show the effects following the effects in the state shown in FIG. 34 (J), and show the second effects in the case of promotion failure. In the example shown in FIG. 36, a state is shown in which the character 9b has completed cooking using the character 9p as an ingredient (see FIG. 36K). Then, the taster 9g tastes the dish completed by the main character 9e and the dish completed by the character 9b (see FIG. 36L), and the taster 9g gives the character 9b a high score, and the character 9b. In this case, an effect is shown in which the player has won and failed to be promoted (see FIGS. 36M to 36P). In this embodiment, even if it is not a probable big hit, since the gaming state is controlled to the short-time state when the big hit game ends, the display effect as shown in FIG. 36 (P) is performed.

  FIG. 37 shows the first effect using the character 9p during the change of the effect symbol (decoration symbol) (see FIGS. 37A to 37D). A display effect is made as if the character 9p did not fall down by the hammer 9f by the main character 9e (see FIG. 37D), and a shift display is made as shown in FIG. In this case, since it does not shift to the big hit gaming state, the second effect is not executed. Note that the effect as shown in FIG. 37 is determined to be out of the way, but when it is determined to reach, and the effect of the fluctuation pattern when it is determined to execute the first effect. Equivalent to. That is, it corresponds to the effect of the fluctuation pattern # 2 or # 4 in FIG.

  In the examples shown in FIGS. 34 to 37, in the effect display device 9 in the first effect and the second effect, the first effect and the second effect are displayed continuously in time, but temporarily. It may be displayed or displayed intermittently. For example, a display effect may be performed only for a short period (for example, several seconds), or a short-term display effect may be executed a plurality of times during a period in which the display effect is not performed.

  34 to 37 illustrate an effect using the character 9p and the character 9b, but other combinations of characters (a combination of the characters 9p and 9a, 9c, and characters 9q, 9r, 9s). All of the combinations of any of the characters 9a, 9b, and 9c) are also prepared.

  34 (D), 37 (D), and (E) show an example in which the main character 9e has a hammer 9f. However, even if an effect by a sword or a spear is executed instead of the hammer 9f, an effect is performed. Good. Further, the jackpot expectation degree and the probability change promotion expectation degree may be changed according to the combination of the hammer, the sword, the spear and the like and the character in the first effect. If an effect using a hammer, a sword, a spear or the like is a third effect, the degree of expectation may be notified by a combination of the first to third effects.

  Next, the flow of processing of the first effect and the second effect by the game control microcomputer 560 and the effect control microcomputer 100 will be described. As shown in FIG. 38, the game control microcomputer 560 as the game control means transmits a change pattern command and an effect symbol designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 as the effect control means at the start of change. (Refer to step S109 in FIG. 20 and steps S115, S117, and S118 in FIG. 21). When the effect control microcomputer 100 is designated to execute the first effect by the variation pattern command, the received effect designating command is received. The type of the first effect is determined on the basis of the (design symbol 1 designation command (offset designation command), production symbol 2 designation command (normal jackpot designation command) or production symbol 3 designation command (probability variation jackpot designation command)). Specifically, the table corresponding to the production symbol designation command is selected from the three tables shown in FIG. 30 (corresponding to the outlier column, the normal jackpot column, and the probability variation jackpot column), and the first production type selection is selected. A count value for generating a random number for use is extracted as a value of a first effect type selection random number, and a character corresponding to a determination value that matches the value of the first effect type selection random number is selected as the first effect type. select. Further, data indicating the type of the first effect is set in the first effect character buffer 112a in the RAM 112.

  At the end of the change, the game control microcomputer 560 sends a fanfare command and an effect symbol designation command (in this case, an effect symbol 2 designation command (normal jackpot designation command) or an effect symbol 3 designation) to the effect control microcomputer 100. Command (probability change big hit designation command)) is transmitted (see steps S134 and S135 in FIG. 23). When receiving the fanfare command, the effect control microcomputer 100 determines the type of the second effect based on the received effect designating command and the data indicating the type of the first effect stored in the RAM 112. Specifically, in order to select the table shown in FIG. 31A or the table shown in FIG. 31B in accordance with the received effect designating command, and generate a second effect type selection random number. Is extracted as a second effect type selection random number value, and the character corresponding to the determination value that matches the second effect type selection random number value in the selected table is selected as the second effect type random value. . Since the character used in the first effect is used in the second effect, the combination of the type of the first effect and the type of the second effect is determined by determining the type of the second effect. Become.

  Then, the effect control microcomputer 100 executes the determined type of second effect during the big hit game.

  FIG. 39 shows that the power supply, such as a power failure, is stopped when the first design is being executed while the production design (decoration design) is changing, the power supply is restored, and the stored contents of the backup RAM are saved. It is explanatory drawing which shows the flow of the process of the 1st effect by the microcomputer 560 for game control in the case of being performed and the microcomputer 100 for effect control.

  When the power supply is restored, the game control microcomputer 560 transmits to the effect control microcomputer 100 a power failure recovery designation command that is changing and has the first effect. Further, an effect designating command is transmitted to the effect control microcomputer 100 based on the data stored in the backup RAM. The effect designating command to be transmitted is the same command as the effect designating command transmitted at the start of variation of the effect design (decorative design) when the power supply is stopped such as a power failure.

  The effect control microcomputer 100 determines the type of the first effect based on the received effect designating command, similarly to the case shown in FIG. Further, data indicating the type of the first effect is set in the first effect character buffer 112a in the RAM 112.

  Therefore, when the first effect is executed before the power supply is stopped, the effect control microcomputer 100 may have different types of the first effect used before the power supply is stopped. However, it is possible to resume the first performance. Thus, it is preferable that the first effect is resumed when the first effect is executed before the power supply is stopped and the power supply is restored.

  In addition, when the power supply such as a power failure occurs during the fluctuation of the production symbol (decoration symbol) and the power supply is restored, the variation of the production symbol (decoration symbol) is resumed from the middle of the fluctuation time. However, the change of the effect symbol (decoration symbol) may be started again from the time of resumption, or the change of the effect symbol (decoration symbol) may be resumed from the middle of the variation time. In addition, when the power supply is stopped due to a power failure or the like and the power supply is restored, a power failure recovery screen (screen for notifying that a power failure or the like has occurred) is also displayed on the effect display device 9. For example, the display of the first effect is displayed small on the display screen. The effect control microcomputer 100 erases the power failure recovery screen when, for example, the change of the effect symbol (decoration symbol) ends.

  FIG. 40 shows that the power supply such as a power failure occurs when the first effect is being executed while the effect design (decoration design) is changing, the power supply is restored, and the stored contents of the backup RAM are saved. It is explanatory drawing which shows the other example of the flow of the process of the 1st effect by the microcomputer 560 for game control in the case of being performed and the microcomputer 100 for effect control.

  When the power supply is restored, the game control microcomputer 560 transmits to the effect control microcomputer 100 a power failure recovery designation command that is changing and has the first effect. The effect control microcomputer 100 sets data indicating the character P in the first effect character buffer 112a in the RAM 112 as data indicating the type of the first effect in the initialization process executed at the start of power supply (in FIG. 27). (See step S713). Therefore, when a power failure recovery designation command with changing / first effect is received from the gaming control microcomputer 560, the first effect using the character P is resumed by resuming the change of the effect symbol (decorative symbol). Can be executed. Also in this case, if the first effect is executed before the power supply is stopped, the effect control microcomputer 100 may be different in the type of the first effect used before the power supply is stopped. Although there is a characteristic, it is possible to resume the variation of the effect symbol (decoration symbol) accompanied by the first effect.

  The reason why the data indicating the character P is set in the RAM at the start of power supply is that the promotion reliability of the character P is the lowest (see FIG. 32B). That is, the type of the first effect that is resumed may be different from the type of the first effect that was used before the power supply stopped, but if the character P is selected, the player will be overkill. It is because it can prevent expectation.

  However, data indicating other than the character P may be set in the RAM. For example, data indicating a character other than a character having a medium promotion expectation may be set in the RAM. The type of the first effect that is resumed may be different from the type of the first effect that was used before the power supply stopped, but data that indicates other than a character with a medium promotion expectation is set in the RAM. By doing so, it is possible to prevent the player from having an excess or deficiency in expectations.

  In this embodiment, in the initialization process executed at the start of power supply, data indicating the character P is always set in the first effect character buffer 112a in the RAM 112 as data indicating the type of the first effect ( In step S713 in FIG. 27), as shown in FIG. 39, when the power supply is restored, the power failure restoration designation command and the production symbol designation command with the fluctuating / first production are sent to the production control microcomputer 100. If the transmission is configured to be transmitted, it is not necessary to execute the process of setting the data indicating the type of the first effect in the first effect character buffer 112a in the RAM 112 in the initialization process.

  FIG. 41 shows a game control when the power supply is stopped, such as a power failure, when the second presentation is being executed and the power supply is restored and the stored contents of the backup RAM are saved. It is explanatory drawing which shows the flow of the process of the 2nd effect by the microcomputer 560 for work and the microcomputer 100 for effect control.

  When the power supply is restored, the game control microcomputer 560 transmits to the effect control microcomputer 100 a power failure recovery designation command with a big hit and a second effect. Further, an effect designating command is transmitted to the effect control microcomputer 100 based on the data stored in the backup RAM. The effect symbol designation command transmitted is the same command as the effect symbol designation command (see FIG. 38) transmitted at the start of the big hit game when the power supply stop such as a power failure occurs.

  When the effect control microcomputer 100 receives the power failure recovery designation command and the effect symbol designation command during the big hit game / with the second effect, it determines the type of the first effect based on the received effect symbol designation command. Further, data indicating the type of the first effect is set in the first effect character buffer 112a in the RAM 112.

  Furthermore, the production control microcomputer 100 determines the type of the second production based on the data indicating the type of the first production stored in the RAM and the received design symbol designation command. Therefore, when the power failure recovery designation command during the big hit game / with the second production is received from the game control microcomputer 560, the second production can be executed by resuming the production control during the big hit game. In the production control microcomputer 100, when the second production is executed before the power supply is stopped, the type of the second production used before the power supply is stopped may be different. The second effect can be resumed.

  FIG. 42 shows the game control when the power supply is stopped such as a power failure when the big presentation is being executed and the second effect is executed, the power supply is restored, and the storage contents of the backup RAM are saved. It is explanatory drawing which shows the other example of the flow of the process of the 2nd effect by the microcomputer 560 for work and the microcomputer 100 for effect control.

  When the power supply is restored, the game control microcomputer 560 transmits to the effect control microcomputer 100 a power failure recovery designation command with a big hit and a second effect. The effect control microcomputer 100 sets data indicating the character P in the first effect character buffer 112a in the RAM 112 as data indicating the type of the first effect in the initialization process executed at the start of power supply, and the second effect. As the data indicating the type of data, data indicating the character A is set in the second effect character buffer 112a in the RAM 112 (see step S713 in FIG. 27).

  Further, the effect control microcomputer 100 determines the type of the second effect based on the data indicating the type of the first effect and the data indicating the type of the second effect stored in the RAM. Therefore, when the power failure recovery designation command during the big hit game / with the second production is received from the game control microcomputer 560, the second production can be executed by resuming the production control during the big hit game. In the production control microcomputer 100, when the second production is executed before the power supply is stopped, the type of the second production used before the power supply is stopped may be different. The second effect can be resumed.

  The reason why the data indicating the character A is set in the RAM at the start of power supply is that there is a relatively low promotion reliability of the second effect using the character A (see FIG. 32C). “Character R + Character A” or “Character P + Character A”). That is, the type of the second effect to be resumed may be different from the type of the second effect used before the power supply is stopped, but if the character A is selected, the promotion is actually failed. This is because it is possible to reduce the possibility of performing a successful promotion despite the fact that it should be (in fact not a probable big hit).

  In this embodiment, in the initialization process executed at the start of power supply, data indicating the character A is always set in the second effect character buffer 112b in the RAM 112 as data indicating the type of the second effect ( In step S713 in FIG. 27), as shown in FIG. 41, when the power supply is restored, the power failure restoration designation command and the production symbol designation command with the big hit game / second production when the power supply is restored and the production design designation microcomputer 100 In the initialization process, the process of setting the data indicating the type of the second effect in the second effect character buffer 112b in the RAM 112 may not be executed in the initialization process.

  When the execution control first microcomputer is designated to execute the first effect in response to the reception of the variation pattern command from the game control microcomputer 560, the effect control microcomputer 100 executes the first control based on the received effect designating command. The type of one effect is determined, and the first effect is executed using the effect device while the effect symbol (decoration symbol) is changing. Also, when an effect symbol designation command is received from the game control microcomputer 560 at the start of the big hit game, the type of the second effect is determined based on the received effect symbol designation command, and the second effect is produced using the effect device. Run.

  FIG. 43 is a flowchart showing the effect control process (step S705) in the main process shown in FIG. In the effect control process, the effect control CPU 101 performs one of steps S800 to S806 according to the value of the effect control process flag. In each process, the following process is executed.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  FIG. 44 is a flowchart showing a variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800) in the effect control process shown in FIG. In the variation pattern command reception waiting process, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the variation pattern command reception flag is set (step S811). If the variation pattern command reception flag is set, the variation pattern command reception flag is reset (step S812). Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the effect symbol variation start process (step S801) (step S813).

  FIG. 45 is a flowchart showing the effect symbol variation start process (step S801) in the effect control process shown in FIG. In the effect symbol variation start process, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not a power failure recovery designation command (9201 (H) or 9202 (H): refer to FIG. 13) indicating that the event is changing has been received (step S821). Whether or not a power failure recovery designation command has been received is confirmed by the data stored in the power failure recovery designation command storage area in step S635 in FIG. In addition, when the power failure recovery designation command indicating that it is changing is received, the control of the effect design (decorative design) is resumed (see steps S636 and S637 in FIG. 29).

  When the power failure recovery designation command indicating that the change is occurring is received, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the power failure restoration designation command is a power failure restoration designation command that designates the presence of the first effect (step S822). . If it is a power failure recovery designation command designating the presence of the first effect, the process proceeds to step S825. If it is not the power failure recovery designation command that designates the presence of the first effect (is the power failure restoration designation command that designates the absence of the first effect), the effect control CPU 101 selects the variation pattern # 1 (step S823). ). Then, control goes to a step S830. Note that the variation pattern # 1 is most selected because the remaining time of the variation time (variation time− (period of variation executed before the power supply is stopped) is unknown on the production control microcomputer 100 side. This is because it is preferable to select a variation pattern having a long variation time.

  Note that the processing of steps S822, S825 to S827 corresponds to the processing shown in FIG.

  When the power failure recovery designation command indicating that the change is in progress has not been received, the effect control CPU 101 reads out and receives the change pattern command from the change pattern command storage area (the received change pattern command is stored). The type of the changed pattern is confirmed (step S824). If the variation pattern command is not the variation pattern command with the first effect, the process proceeds to step S830.

  In step S825, the effect control CPU 101 reads the count value of the counter for generating the first effect type selection random number, and sets the read value as the first effect type selection random number value. That is, the first effect type selection random number is extracted. Then, the type of the first effect is determined based on the first effect type selection random number value and the received effect symbol designation command (effect symbol 1 designation command, effect symbol 2 designation command or effect symbol 3 designation command). (Step S826). Specifically, in the table shown in FIG. 30 according to the received effect designating command (an example of a command that can specify the display result of the variable display of the identification information), the part of the table that is out of place, the normal big hit or the probability big hit And the character corresponding to the determination value that matches the first effect type selection random value is selected as the type of the first effect.

  Then, the type of the selected first effect is stored in the first effect character buffer 112b in the RAM 112 (step S827). Also, a first effect execution flag is set (step S828). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S830.

  In step S830, the effect control CPU 101 clears the contents of the power failure recovery designation command storage area. The contents of the power failure recovery specification command storage area will be cleared even when the power failure recovery specification command is not received. In this case, the power failure recovery specification command is not stored. Although the contents of the area will be cleared, even if such control is performed, there will be no hindrance to the production control.

  Note that the processing in step S822 and the subsequent processing in steps S825 to S827 correspond to the processing shown in FIG.

  Further, the effect control CPU 101 determines the display result (stop symbol) of the effect symbol (decorative symbol) according to the data stored in the effect symbol designation command storage area (that is, the received display result specifying command) ( Step S831). When determining the stop symbol, the effect control CPU 101 clears the contents of the effect symbol designation command storage area (step S832).

  The contents of the effect symbol designation command storage area may not be cleared, and the contents of the effect symbol designation command storage area may remain in the RAM until the second effect is started. When the contents of the effect symbol designation command storage area are not cleared, the game control microcomputer 560 does not need to transmit the effect symbol designation command again when transmitting the fanfare command. In addition, when the production control microcomputer 100 determines the type of the second production based on the production design designation command, the production design designation command stored in the production design designation command storage area (the production received at the start of variation). The type of the second effect is determined using the symbol designating command).

  When determining the stop symbol, the effect control CPU 101 extracts a stop symbol determination random number, and uses the stop symbol determination table in which the data indicating the combination of the effect symbols and the determination value are associated with each other, Determine the stop pattern. That is, the stop symbol is determined as illustrated in FIG. 11 by selecting data indicating a combination of effect symbols corresponding to the determination value that matches the extracted stop symbol determining random value. Whether or not there is a reach is determined by, for example, the received variation pattern command. Further, the effect control CPU 101 stores data indicating the determined effect stop symbol in the effect symbol display result storage area.

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

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 selects a process table corresponding to the variation pattern and the type of the first effect (step S833). Then, the production control CPU 101 performs the production device (the production display device 9 as the production component, the production component as the production component according to the contents of the process data 1 (display control execution data 1, lamp control execution data 1, sound number data 1). Control of various LEDs and the speaker 27 as a production component is executed (step S834). For example, a command is output to the VDP 109 in order to display an image according to the variation pattern on the effect display device 9. In addition, a control signal (lamp control execution data) is output to the lamp driver board 35 in order to perform on / off control of various lamps. In addition, a control signal (sound number data) is output to the sound output board 70 in order to output sound from the speaker 27. Further, the process timer in the process data 1 of the selected process table is started (step S835).

  FIG. 46 is an explanatory diagram of a configuration example of the process table. The process table is a table in which process data referred to when the effect control CPU 101 executes control of the effect device is set. That is, the effect control CPU 101 controls effect devices (effect components) such as the effect display device 9 according to the process data set in the process table. The process data includes data obtained by collecting a plurality of combinations of process timer set values, display control execution data, lamp control execution data, and sound number data. The display control execution data includes data indicating each variation mode constituting the variation mode during the variable display time (variation time) of the variable display of the effect symbol (decoration symbol). Moreover, the data etc. which comprise an effect aspect are described in the process table selected when performing a 1st effect. Specifically, data relating to the change of the display screen of the effect display device 9 is described. The process timer set value is set with a change time in the form of the change. The effect control CPU 101 refers to the process table and performs control to display the effect design in the variation mode set in the display control execution data for the time set in the process timer set value.

  In addition, similar to the control based on the display control execution data, the effect control CPU 101 controls the lighting state of various LEDs based on the lamp control execution data for the time set in the process timer set value, and obtains the sound number data. Output to the audio output board 70.

  The effect control CPU 101 controls the effect device in accordance with the process data in the process table, thereby realizing the change pattern of the effect symbol (decorative symbol), the lighting state of the light emitter and the sound output synchronized therewith. Further, by controlling the effect device according to the process data in the process table, the display state of the first effect on the effect display device 9 and the lighting state and sound output of the light emitter synchronized with the display state are realized.

  The process data shown in FIG. 46 is stored in the ROM of the effect control board 80. The process table is prepared for each combination of each variation pattern and the first effect type.

  In addition, in the process table used when effect control is executed for a variation pattern with reach effect, the left symbol is stopped when a predetermined time has elapsed from the start of the variation, and the right symbol is stopped when a predetermined time further elapses. Process data indicating that it is to be displayed is set.

  Thereafter, the effect control CPU 101 changes the color of the background portion on the display screen of the effect display device 9 according to the received background designation command (normal background designation command, probability change background designation command or short-time background designation command). Control is performed (step S836). Also, a value corresponding to the variation time specified by the variation pattern command is set in the variation time timer (step S837), and the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value indicating the effect symbol variation process (step S802). (Step S838).

  FIG. 47 is a flowchart showing the effect symbol variation in-process (step S802) in the effect control process. In the effect symbol variation process, the effect control CPU 101 subtracts 1 from the value of the process timer (step S841) and subtracts 1 from the value of the variation time timer (step S842). When the process timer times out (step S843), the process data is switched. That is, the process timer setting value set next in the process table is set in the process timer (step S844). Further, the control state for the rendering device is changed based on the display control execution data, lamp control execution data, and sound number data set next (step S845).

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

  By executing control according to each process data in the process table (control is executed by the processing of steps S841 to S845), effect control according to the variation pattern and the first effect is realized. In particular, by performing the effect control according to the first effect, for example, the effects illustrated in FIGS. 34 (A) to (E) can be realized.

  FIG. 48 is a flowchart showing the effect symbol variation stop process (step S803) in the effect control process. In the effect symbol variation stop process, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the confirmed command reception flag is set (step S851). If the confirmed command reception flag is set, the confirmed command reception flag is reset. In step S852, control is performed to derive and display the stop symbol in accordance with the data stored in the effect symbol display result storage area (data indicating the stop symbol) (step S853). Also, a decorative symbol variation end flag is set (step S854). Then, the production control CPU 101 confirms whether or not it is determined to be a big hit (step S855). Whether or not it is determined to be a big hit is determined based on, for example, the determined stop symbol whether or not it is determined to be a big hit.

  If it is determined to be a big hit, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the big hit display process (step S804) (step S856).

  If it is determined not to win, the effect control CPU 101 updates the value of the effect control process flag to a value corresponding to the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800) (step S857).

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

  FIG. 49 is a flowchart showing the jackpot display process (step S804) in the effect control process. In the jackpot display process, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the jackpot display time timer is set (step S861). When the big hit display time timer is set, the process proceeds to step S862. If the jackpot display time timer is not set, it is checked whether or not a fanfare command reception flag indicating that a jackpot start designation command (fanfare command) has been received is set (step S865). If the fanfare command reception flag is set, the fanfare command reception flag is reset (step S866), a value corresponding to the big hit display time is set in the big hit display time timer (step S867), and the fanfare screen (big hit) Control for displaying the effect display device 9 on the screen for notifying the start of the game is performed (step S868). Specifically, an instruction to display the fanfare screen is given to the VDP 109.

  In addition, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not an effect symbol designation command has been received (step S869). Whether or not an effect symbol designation command has been received is determined by whether or not a significant value (a non-zero value that is a cleared value) is set in the effect symbol designation command storage area. When the effect designating command is received, the effect control CPU 101 reads the count value of the counter for generating the second effect type selection random number, and uses the read value as the second effect type selection random value. And That is, the second effect type selection random number is extracted (step S870). Then, the second effect type selection random number value, the first effect type indicated by the data stored in the first effect character buffer 112a, and the received effect symbol designation command (in this case, the effect symbol 2 designation command). Alternatively, the type of the second effect is determined based on the effect design 3 designation command), and data indicating the type of the second effect is set in the second effect character buffer 112b (step S871). Specifically, it is shown in the table shown in FIG. 31A or FIG. 31B according to the received design symbol designation command (an example of a command that can specify the display result of the variable display of the identification information). The table is selected, and the second effect type corresponds to the determination value (determination value corresponding to the row corresponding to the first effect type in FIG. 31) that matches the value of the second effect type selection random number. Select a character.

  Then, the effect control CPU 101 resets the first effect execution flag and sets the second effect execution flag (step S872). Further, the contents of the effect symbol designation command storage area are cleared (step S873).

  In step S862, the effect control CPU 101 subtracts 1 from the value of the jackpot display time timer. Then, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the jackpot display time timer is 0, that is, whether or not the jackpot display time has elapsed (step S863). If not, the process ends. When the big hit display time has elapsed, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the big hit game processing (step S805) (step S864).

  FIG. 50 is a flowchart showing the big hit game processing (step S805) in the effect control process. In the big hit game processing, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not a power failure recovery designation command (9203 (H) or 9204 (H): see FIG. 13) indicating that the big hit game is being received (step S874). Whether or not a power failure recovery designation command has been received is confirmed by the data stored in the power failure recovery designation command storage area in the process of step S635. When a power failure recovery designation command indicating that the jackpot is being received, the effect control during the jackpot game is resumed (see steps S638 and S639 in FIG. 29).

  When the power failure recovery designation command indicating that the big hit game is being received, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the power failure recovery designation command is a power failure recovery designation command for designating the presence of the second effect (step S875). ). If it is a power failure recovery designation command that designates the presence of the second effect, the process proceeds to step S876. If it is not a power failure recovery designation command designating that there is a second effect (it was a power failure restoration designation command designating that there is no second effect), the effect control CPU 101 clears the contents of the power failure recovery designation command storage area. (Step S879).

  In step S876, a second effect type selection random number is extracted. Then, the second effect type selection random number, the first effect type indicated by the data stored in the first effect character buffer 112a, and the received effect symbol designation command (the effect symbol 2 designation command or the effect symbol 3 designation). The type of the second effect is determined based on the command (step S877). Further, the second effect execution flag is set (step S878). Then, control goes to a step S879. The effect control CPU 101 resets the second effect execution flag, for example, in the big hit end process.

  It should be noted that the effect control CPU 101 executes the first effect type selection random number and the received effect symbol designation command (the effect symbol 2 designation command or the effect symbol 3 designation command) before the process of step S876. A process of determining the type of one effect and setting the determined type of the first effect in the first effect character buffer 112a is executed. Therefore, the data stored in the first effect character buffer 112a used in the process of step S877 is data based on the determined type of the first effect. When the process for determining the type of the first effect is not executed, the data stored in the first effect character buffer 112a used in the process of step S877 is the initialization process shown in FIG. The data is based on the determined type of the first effect.

  When a power failure recovery designation command indicating that a big hit game is not received, the production control CPU 101 receives a command after opening the big prize opening, and displays an inter-round display screen (notifies between rounds during the big hit game). Screen to be displayed on the effect display device 9 (steps S880 and S887). Also, when a command for opening a special prize opening is received (step S881), a process table corresponding to the number of rounds and the type of second effect is selected (step S888), and the contents of process data 1 (display control execution data) 1. Control of the effect device is executed according to lamp control execution data 1, sound number data 1) (step S889). For example, a command is output to the VDP 109 in order to display an image according to the variation pattern on the effect display device 9. In addition, a control signal (lamp control execution data) is output to the lamp driver board 35 in order to perform on / off control of various lamps. In addition, a control signal (sound number data) is output to the sound output board 70 in order to output sound from the speaker 27. Further, the process timer in the process data 1 of the selected process table is started (step S890).

  When the ending command reception flag indicating that the jackpot end designation command (ending command) has been received is set, the ending command reception flag is reset (steps S882 and S891), and the ending screen (end of jackpot game) Is displayed on the effect display device 9 (step S892). Specifically, an instruction for displaying the ending screen is given to the VDP 109. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the jackpot end process (step S806) (step S893).

  In the big hit end process, when the time for notifying the end of the big hit game has elapsed, the effect control CPU 101 updates the value of the effect control process flag to a value corresponding to the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800).

  If the ending command reception flag is not set, the process timer value is decremented by 1 (step S881), and when the process timer times out (step S884), the process data is switched. That is, the process timer setting value set next in the process table is set in the process timer (step S885). Further, the control state for the effect device is changed based on the display control execution data, lamp control execution data, and sound number data set next (step S886).

  In addition, by performing control according to each process data in the process table (control is executed by the processing of steps S883 to S886), presentation control according to the second presentation is realized. For example, the effects exemplified in FIGS. 34 (G) to (J) and FIGS. 35 (K) to (P), and examples illustrated in FIGS. 34 (G) to (J) and FIGS. 36 (K) to (P). Production can be realized.

  Through the processing as described above, it is possible to realize control in which the first effect is executed when the special symbol and the effect symbol (decoration symbol) are changed, and the second effect is executed during the big hit game. In this embodiment, the first effect is executed when the special symbol and the effect symbol (decoration symbol) are changed, and the second effect is executed during the big hit game. Therefore, the special symbol and the effect symbol (decoration) are executed. It is possible to maintain the player's interest in the probable change state from when the symbol (variable display) is executed to during the big hit state, and to enhance the interest of the game.

  Further, the selection ratio of the first effect is different depending on whether the display result of variable display is decided to be a big hit symbol or not decided to be a big hit symbol (see FIG. 30). In addition to the level of promotion expectation (elevation reliability), the type of the first effect can be made to correspond to the level of expectation (hit reliability) at which the jackpot symbol is derived and displayed on the effect display device 9.

  Further, in the above embodiment, control according to the first example shown in FIG. 39 is executed at the time of recovery from a power failure or the like that occurred during the fluctuation of the special symbol and the effect symbol (decorative symbol) ( (See steps S821, S822, S825 to S827 in FIG. 45). When the control according to the second example shown in FIG. 40 is executed, the effect symbol variation start process shown in FIG. 51 is executed.

  In the effect symbol variation start process shown in FIG. 51, when a power failure recovery designation command designating the presence of the first effect is received (step S822), the character set in the first effect character buffer 112a in the RAM 112 by the initialization process. Since the first effect is executed based on the data indicating P, the process proceeds to step S828 without executing the processes of steps S825 to S827. Other processing is the same as the processing in the above embodiment.

  In the case of performing such control, the game control means, when recovering from a power failure or the like occurring during the fluctuation of the special symbol and the effect symbol (decoration symbol), causes the effect symbol designation command (display result of variable display of identification information). It is not necessary to send an example of a command that can specify

  Also, in the above embodiment, control according to the first example shown in FIG. 41 is executed at the time of recovery from a power failure or the like that occurred during the big hit game (processing for determining the type of the first effect) , And steps S876 to S878 in FIG. 50). When the control according to the second example shown in FIG. 42 is executed, the big hit game process shown in FIG. 52 is executed.

  In the big hit game process shown in FIG. 52, when a power failure recovery designation command for designating the presence of the second effect is received (step S875), the character A set in the second effect character buffer 112b in the RAM 112 by the initialization process. Since the first effect is executed based on the data indicating the second effect type, the second effect type selection random number value, the first effect type indicated by the data stored in the first effect character buffer 112a, and the second effect character buffer The type of the second effect is determined based on the data set in 112b (step S877A). Other processing is the same as the processing in the above embodiment.

  In the case of performing such control, the game control means, when recovering from a power failure or the like occurring during the fluctuation of the special symbol and the effect symbol (decoration symbol), causes the effect symbol designation command (display result of variable display of identification information). It is not necessary to send an example of a command that can specify

Embodiment 2. FIG.
In the first embodiment, the first effect is executed when the special symbol and the effect symbol (decoration symbol) are changed, and the second effect is executed during the big hit game, but the first effect is executed. The time and the execution time of the second effect may be set to other times.

  In the second embodiment (Embodiment 2), the first effect is executed during the jackpot game, and the second effect is executed after the jackpot game ends.

  53 to 57 are explanatory diagrams showing specific examples of the first effect and the second effect in this embodiment. In the example shown in FIG. 53, after the jackpot display (fanfare display) is made on the display screen of the effect display device 9 after the effect symbol (decoration symbol) changes (see FIGS. 53A and 53B), the jackpot game A first effect using the character 9p (pig) is being executed (see FIGS. 53C to 53E). Then, when a display effect is made such that the character 9p falls down (see FIG. 53 (F)), after the big hit end display (ending display) is made as shown in FIG. 53 (G), after the big hit game, Two effects are executed (see FIGS. 53H to 53J). In FIG. 53, the display state in the effect display device 9 transitions sequentially from the state shown in (A) to the state shown in (J). The same applies to FIGS. 54 to 57.

  In the example shown in FIG. 53 and the example shown in FIG. 54 that follows, the second effect using the character 9b is executed (see FIG. 53 (I) and FIG. 54 (N)). In the second effect, the character used in the first effect (character 9p in the examples shown in FIGS. 53 and 54) is used.

  54 (K) to 54 (O) show the second performance in the case of successful promotion. That is, a state in which another character (the main character 9e) different from the character 9b (Western cook) has completed cooking using the character 9p as an ingredient (see FIG. 54 (K)). Moreover, the state where the character 9b has completed cooking using the character 9p as an ingredient is shown (see FIG. 54 (L)), and the tasting person 9g has completed the cooking and the character 9b completed by the main character 9e. The tasting 9g gives a high score to the hero character 9e, and the hero character 9e wins and is promoted successfully (see FIG. 54N). (See (P)).

  55 (K) to (P) show the effects following the effects in the state shown in FIG. 53 (J), and show the second effects in the case of the promotion failure. That is, a state in which the main character 9e has completed cooking using the character 9p as an ingredient is shown (see FIG. 55 (K)). In addition, a state where the character 9b has completed cooking using the character 9p as an ingredient is shown (see FIG. 55 (L)), and the tasting person 9g has completed the cooking that the main character 9e has completed and the character 9b. The tasting of the dish (see FIG. 55 (M)), the taster 9g gives a high score to the character 9b, and the character 9b wins and the promotion failure is shown (FIGS. 55 (N) to (O) )reference). FIG. 55 also shows a state in which the change in the effect design (decoration design) has started after the promotion failure (see FIG. 55 (P)).

  As shown in FIGS. 54 and 55, the content of the second effect changes as the remaining number of time reductions (the number of times variable display can be executed in the time reduction state) decreases, and when the remaining number of time reductions extremely decreases (10 in this example). 54), as shown in FIG. 54 (N) and FIG. 55 (N), the character A to C (character B (9b) in this example) and the hero character 9e are judged and the remaining time is short. When the number of times becomes 0, a notification screen indicating success of promotion or failure of promotion is displayed on the effect display device 9.

  In FIG. 56, the first effect using the character 9p (pig) is executed during the big hit game (see FIGS. 56A to 56E). Then, a display effect is made as if the character 9p did not collapse (see FIG. 56 (F)), and a big hit end display is made as shown in FIG. 56 (G). In this case, the second effect is not executed. In this embodiment, even if it is not a probable big hit, since the gaming state is controlled to the short time state when the big hit game is finished, a display effect as shown in FIG. 56 (H) is performed.

  In this embodiment, since the stop symbols of the production symbols (decoration symbols) are not divided between when the probability variation jackpot is determined and when the normal jackpot is determined, the player can perform the second performance. Until it is finished, it cannot be determined whether it was a probable big hit or a normal big hit. In other words, the player's sense of expectation for the probable big hit can be maintained until the second performance is completed.

  In order to make such an effect more effective, that is, to further emphasize that it is unknown whether it was a promiscuous big hit or a normal big hit, the characters A to C are used during the second stage. An effect different from the effect to be used may be performed.

  For example, as shown in the explanatory diagram of FIG. 57, when a big hit occurs before the end of the second performance, another character (the main character 9e) different from the characters A to C is displayed during the big hit game. (See FIGS. 57 (I) to (K)), an effect (see FIGS. 57 (L) to (M)) that allows the character used in the first effect to be obtained again is performed, and the probability variation is a big hit. Emphasize that it is unclear whether it was a big hit or not. In addition, the discomfort when the second effect cannot be continued due to the occurrence of the big hit is eliminated by the effect as illustrated in FIG.

  54 to 57 exemplify effects using the character 9p and the character 9b, but other combinations of characters (a combination of the characters 9p and 9a, 9c, and characters 9q, 9r, 9s). All of the combinations of any of the characters 9a, 9b, and 9c) are also prepared.

  FIG. 58 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the variation pattern (variation time) of the special symbol and the effect symbol (decoration symbol) used in this embodiment. Unlike each variation pattern in the first embodiment shown in FIG. 12, in this embodiment, the variation patterns # 1 to # 4 do not include the first effect mode.

  FIG. 59 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the contents of the effect control command transmitted by the game control microcomputer 560 in this embodiment. The difference from the effect control command in the first embodiment shown in FIG. 13 is that the type of power failure recovery designation command is different. That is, when the power supply to the gaming machine is resumed, the game control microcomputer 560 is in a big hit when the power supply is stopped in the process of step S43 shown in FIG. If not executed, a power failure recovery designation command of command 9201 (H) is transmitted. If the first effect is being executed when the power supply is stopped and the first effect is being executed, a power failure recovery designation command of command 9202 (H) is transmitted. When the second effect is being executed when the power supply is stopped, a power failure recovery designation command of command 9204 (H) is transmitted. It should be noted that the CPU 56 in the game control microcomputer 560 determines whether the first effect and the second effect have been executed, and whether the first effect flag and the second effect flag in the backup RAM area are set. Determine by.

  Further, when it is determined to perform the first effect as a fanfare command, an effect control command of A001 (H) (a jackpot start 1 designation command) is transmitted and it is not determined to perform the first effect. In this case, an effect control command A002 (H) (a big hit start 2 designation command) is transmitted.

  FIG. 60 is a flowchart showing special symbol stop processing executed by CPU 56 in game control microcomputer 560 in this embodiment. In this embodiment, if the jackpot flag is set (step S132, the CPU 56 resets the probability variation flag (step S133), then reads the value of the effect execution determination random number from the random number buffer area ( In step S134A, it is determined whether or not to execute the first effect based on the value of the random number for determining the execution of execution (step S134B) Specifically, the value of the random number for determining the execution of execution is shown in FIG. If it coincides with one of the execution determination values, it is determined to execute the first effect, and data indicating whether or not to execute the first effect is stored in the RAM 55.

  Next, when it is decided to execute the first effect as a fanfare command, a big hit start 1 designation command is transmitted to the microcomputer 100 for effect control, and when it is decided not to execute the first effect. Control to transmit the big hit start 2 designation command to the production control microcomputer 100 is performed (step S134C). Moreover, control which transmits an effect design designation | designated command is performed (step S135), and the data which show the transmitted effect design designation command are set to RAM55 (step S135A). Further, the first effect flag is set (step S135B). The effect symbol designation command transmitted by the process of step S135 is an effect symbol 2 designation command (normal jackpot designation command) or an effect symbol 3 designation command (probability variation jackpot designation command). Other processes are the same as those in the first embodiment.

  Further, in this embodiment, there is no room for setting the data indicating the variation pattern with the first effect in the table used for determining the variation pattern in the variation pattern setting process (see FIG. 20) (FIG. 58). Reference), the first effect is not executed during the change of the effect symbol (decoration symbol).

  FIG. 61 is a flowchart showing the jackpot end process (step S307) in the separate symbol process executed by the CPU 56 in the game control microcomputer 560 in this embodiment. In this embodiment, the CPU 56 transmits an ending command (step S174) and produces an effect designating command corresponding to data (see step S135A in FIG. 60) indicating the effect designating command stored in the RAM 55. Control to transmit to the control microcomputer 100 is performed (step S175A). The effect symbol designation command transmitted by the process of step S175A is an effect symbol 2 designation command (normal jackpot designation command) or an effect symbol 3 designation command (probability variation jackpot designation command). If the first effect flag indicating execution of the first effect is set, the first effect flag is reset, and the second effect flag indicating execution of the second effect is set (step S175B). Note that the CPU 56 resets, for example, when the second effect flag is determined to be the next big hit, or when the time reduction state is ended (when the time reduction flag is reset).

  FIG. 62 is a flowchart showing a part of command analysis processing executed by the effect control CPU 101 in the effect control microcomputer 560 in this embodiment. In this embodiment, the effect control CPU 101 receives a power failure recovery designation command when it is a command (9201 (H) or 9202 (H): see FIG. 56) that designates that a big hit game is being played. Sets the value of the effect symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the big hit game processing (steps S638, S639).

  If the received power failure recovery designation command indicates that there is a second effect, that is, if an effect control command of 9204 (H) has been received, a second effect setting process is performed (step S640). , S641).

  FIG. 63 is a flowchart showing the second effect setting process. In the second effect setting process, the effect control CPU 101 extracts a second effect type selection random number (step S651). Then, the type of the second effect is determined based on the second effect type selection random number, the type of the first effect indicated by the data stored in the first effect character buffer 112a, and the received effect designating command. (Step S652). Specifically, it is shown in the table shown in FIG. 31A or FIG. 31B according to the received design symbol designation command (an example of a command that can specify the display result of the variable display of the identification information). The table is selected, and the second effect type corresponds to the determination value (determination value corresponding to the row corresponding to the first effect type in FIG. 31) that matches the value of the second effect type selection random number. Select a character. Further, the second effect execution flag is set (step S653).

  Next, the flow of processing of the first effect and the second effect by the game control microcomputer 560 and the effect control microcomputer 100 will be described. As shown in FIG. 64, the game control microcomputer 560 as the game control means transmits a fanfare command and an effect symbol designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 as the effect control means at the end of the change ( When the execution control first microcomputer is designated to execute the first effect by the fanfare command, the effect control microcomputer 100 (see steps S134C and S135 in FIG. 60) specifies the received effect design designation command (in this case, the design of the effect design 2). The type of the first effect is determined based on the command (ordinary jackpot designation command) or the production symbol 3 designation command (probability variation jackpot designation command)). Specifically, the table corresponding to the “ordinary big hit” or the table corresponding to “probability big hit”, which is a table corresponding to the effect designating command, is selected from the three tables shown in FIG. The count value for generating the type selection random number is extracted as the first production type selection random number value, and the first production type corresponds to the determination value that matches the first production type selection random number value. Select a character. Further, data indicating the type of the first effect is set in the first effect character buffer 112a in the RAM 112.

  At the end of the big hit, the game control microcomputer 560 sends an ending command and a production symbol designation command (production symbol 2 designation command (ordinary jackpot designation command) or production symbol 3 designation command (probability big hit designation) to the production control microcomputer 100. Command)) (see steps S174 and S175A in FIG. 61). When receiving the fanfare command, the effect control microcomputer 100 determines the type of the second effect based on the received effect designating command and the data indicating the type of the first effect stored in the RAM. Specifically, in order to select the table shown in FIG. 31A or the table shown in FIG. 31B in accordance with the received effect designating command, and generate a second effect type selection random number. Is extracted as a second effect type selection random number value, and a character corresponding to a determination value that matches the second effect type selection random number value is selected as the second effect type selection random number value. Since the character used in the first effect is used in the second effect, the combination of the type of the first effect and the type of the second effect is determined by determining the type of the second effect. Become.

  FIG. 65 shows a game in which the power supply is stopped such as a power failure when the first presentation is being executed during the big hit game, the power supply is restored, and the stored contents of the backup RAM are saved. It is explanatory drawing which shows the flow of the process of the 1st effect by the microcomputer for control 560 and the microcomputer for effect control.

  When the power supply is restored, the game control microcomputer 560 transmits to the effect control microcomputer 100 a power failure recovery designation command during the big hit game and with the first effect. Further, an effect designating command is transmitted to the effect control microcomputer 100 based on the data stored in the backup RAM. The effect design designation command that is sent is the designation of the effect design sent at the start of the jackpot game when the power supply stoppage such as a power failure occurs (specifically, at the end of the change of the effect design (decorative design)) The same command as the command.

  The effect control microcomputer 100 determines the type of the first effect based on the received effect designating command, similarly to the case shown in FIG. Further, data indicating the type of the first effect is set in the first effect character buffer 112a in the RAM 112.

  Therefore, when the first effect is executed before the power supply is stopped, the effect control microcomputer 100 may have different types of the first effect used before the power supply is stopped. However, the production control during the big hit game with the first production can be resumed.

  FIG. 66 shows a case where the power supply is stopped such as a power failure when the big presentation game is ended and the second effect is executed, the power supply is restored, and the storage contents of the backup RAM are saved. It is explanatory drawing which shows the flow of the process of the 2nd effect by the microcomputer 560 for game control and the microcomputer 100 for effect control. In addition, FIG. 66 illustrates that the second effect was performed while the effect symbol (decoration symbol) after the big hit game ended.

  The game control microcomputer 560 transmits a power failure restoration designation command with the second effect to the effect control microcomputer 100 when the power supply is recovered. Further, an effect designating command is transmitted to the effect control microcomputer 100 based on the data stored in the backup RAM. The transmitted effect symbol designation command is the same command as the effect symbol designation command transmitted at the start of the big hit game when the power supply stop such as a power failure occurs.

  When the production control microcomputer 100 receives the power failure recovery designation command and the production symbol designation command with the second production, it determines the type of the first production based on the received production symbol designation command. Further, data indicating the type of the first effect is set in the first effect character buffer 112a in the RAM 112.

  Furthermore, the production control microcomputer 100 determines the type of the second production based on the data indicating the type of the first production stored in the RAM and the received design symbol designation command. Therefore, when the power failure recovery designation command with the second effect is received from the game control microcomputer 560, the second effect after the big hit game can be executed by restarting the effect control. In the production control microcomputer 100, when the second production is executed before the power supply is stopped, the type of the second production used before the power supply is stopped may be different. The production control during the big hit game with the second production can be resumed.

  65 and 66 show an example in which the type of the first effect and the type of the second effect are determined based on the received effect designating command and the promotion effect (first effect and second effect) is resumed. Although shown, as in the case of the second example (see FIGS. 41 and 42) in the first embodiment, the effect control CPU 101 performs the first effect character buffer 112a and the second effect character buffer 112a in the RAM 112 in the initialization process. The type of the first effect and the type of the second effect may be determined based on the data set in the effect character buffer 112b. In this case, the game control microcomputer 560 does not have to transmit the effect designating command when the power supply is restored.

  Hereinafter, the control of the 1st effect and the 2nd effect which the microcomputer 100 for effect control in this embodiment performs is demonstrated. In the following description, the second effect is executed while the effect symbol (decoration symbol) after the jackpot game ends, but when the event is not changing, or both when changing and not changing, You may make it perform 2 productions.

  FIG. 67 is a flowchart showing the effect symbol variation start process (step S801) in the effect symbol process (see FIG. 43) executed by the effect control CPU 101 in the effect control microcomputer 100.

  In this embodiment, in the effect symbol variation start process, the effect control CPU 101 reads the variation pattern command from the variation pattern command in which the variation pattern command received from the game control microcomputer 560 is stored (step S831A). Then, after executing the same process as the process of step S831 in the first embodiment shown in FIG. 45, a process according to the variation pattern and the type of the second effect stored in the second effect character buffer 112b. A table is selected (step S833A).

  The process table corresponding to the variation pattern and the type of the second effect is selected when the second effect execution flag indicating that the second effect is being executed is set. If the flag is not set, the process table corresponding to only the variation pattern is selected.

  In the process of step S833A, the type of the second effect is also targeted in order to realize the second effect that is executed when the big hit game ends. That is, in the effect symbol variation processing, effect control is executed according to the process data in the process table as in the case of the first embodiment, but when the second effect is being executed, the second effect is changed. By using the process table according to the type, the second effect is executed while the effect symbol (decoration symbol) is changing. In this embodiment, the second effect is executed over a plurality of changes in the effect symbol (decoration symbol).

  In the effect symbol variation processing, the control according to each process data in the process table is executed (the control is executed by the processing of steps S841 to S845 in FIG. 47), thereby realizing the effect control according to the second effect. For example, the effects exemplified in FIGS. 53 (H) to (J) and FIGS. 54 (K) to (P), and examples illustrated in FIGS. 53 (H) to (J) and FIGS. 55 (K) to (O). Production can be realized.

  Next, if the gaming state is in the time saving state, the effect control CPU 101 decrements the value of the time reduction counter by -1 (steps S835A and S835B), and the value of the time reduction counter after -1 is given to the effect display device 9. Display control is performed (step S835C). Under the control of steps S835A to S835C, the remaining time is displayed on the effect display device 9.

  It should be noted that the effect control CPU 101 can determine whether or not it is in the time-saving state from the data in the background designation command storage area in which the background designation command received from the game control microcomputer 560 is stored. In addition, the effect control CPU 101 sets 100 in the hour / times counter, for example, in the process of the big hit end process (step S806).

  In this embodiment, on the condition that the second effect is not being performed, that is, when the second effect execution flag is not set, the background color on the display screen of the effect display device 9 is set as the background designation command storage area. Is set to the color corresponding to the background designation command stored in (the color corresponding to the gaming state) (steps S835D and S836).

  When the second performance execution flag is set, the background color is not changed, because if the background color is changed, the player is informed whether the state has changed to the probability change state or not, and the player changes to the probability change state. This is because the effect of the promotion effect, which is an effect for notifying whether or not, is diminished.

  The other processes in the effect symbol variation start process are the same as those in the first embodiment.

  Further, when the second effect is executed when not changing, or both when changing and not changing, for example, the game control microcomputer 560 is caused to wait for a change pattern command reception process in the effect control process. In this case, the process of steps S831A to S835 may be executed to select a process table, and presentation control may be executed according to the process data in the process table. For example, when the second effect is executed when not changing, the process of step S833A executed in the change pattern command reception waiting process does not consider the change pattern and is based only on the type of the second effect. Select the process table.

  FIG. 68 is a flowchart showing the jackpot display process (step S804) in the effect symbol process (see FIG. 43) executed by the effect control CPU 101 in the effect control microcomputer 100.

  In this embodiment, in the jackpot display process, the effect control CPU 101 is designated to execute the first effect by the fanfare command (when the jackpot start 2 designation command (see FIG. 59) is received). (Step S869A), the count value of the counter for generating the first effect type selection random number is read, and the read value is set as the first effect type selection random number value. That is, the first effect type selection random number is extracted (step S870A). Then, the type of the first effect is determined based on the first effect type selection random number value and the received effect symbol designation command (in this case, the effect symbol 2 designation command or the effect symbol 3 designation command) ( Step S871A). Specifically, the normal big hit or the probable big hit portion is selected from the table shown in FIG. 30 in accordance with the received design symbol designation command (an example of a command that can specify the display result of the variable display of identification information). The character corresponding to the determination value that matches the first effect type selection random number is selected as the type of the first effect.

  Then, the selected type of the first effect is stored in the first effect character buffer 112a in the RAM 112 (step S872A). Also, a first effect execution flag is set (step S872B). Other processes are the same as those in the first embodiment.

  FIG. 69 is a flowchart showing the big hit game processing (step S805) in the effect control process executed by the effect control CPU 101 in the effect control microcomputer 100. In the big hit game processing, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not a power failure restoration designation command (9201 (H) or 9202 (H): see FIG. 59) indicating that the big hit game is being received (step S874). Whether or not a power failure recovery designation command has been received is confirmed by the data stored in the power failure recovery designation command storage area in the process of step S635. When a power failure recovery designation command indicating that the jackpot is being received, the effect control during the jackpot game is resumed (see steps S638 and S639 in FIG. 62).

  When the power failure recovery designation command indicating that the big hit game is being received, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the power failure recovery designation command is a power failure restoration designation command that designates the presence of the first effect (step S875A). ). If it is a power failure recovery designation command that designates the presence of the first effect, the process proceeds to step S876A. If it is not a power failure recovery designation command that designates that there is a first effect (it was a power failure restoration designation command that designates that there is no first effect), the effect control CPU 101 clears the contents of the power failure restoration designation command storage area. (Step S879).

  In step S876A, the effect control CPU 101 reads the count value of the counter for generating the first effect type selection random number, and sets the read value as the first effect type selection random value. That is, the first effect type selection random number is extracted. Then, the type of the first effect is determined based on the first effect type selection random number value and the received effect symbol designation command (in this case, the effect symbol 2 designation command or the effect symbol 3 designation command) ( Step S877B). Specifically, the normal big hit or the probable big hit portion is selected from the table shown in FIG. 30 in accordance with the received design symbol designation command (an example of a command that can specify the display result of the variable display of identification information). The character corresponding to the determination value that matches the first effect type selection random number is selected as the type of the first effect.

  Then, the type of the selected first effect is stored in the first effect character buffer 112a in the RAM 112 (step S877C). Further, the first effect execution flag is set (step S877D). Other processes are the same as those in the case of the first embodiment (see FIG. 50).

  Note that the processing shown in FIG. 65 is realized by the processing in steps S875A to S877C.

  In addition, by performing control according to each process data in the process table (control is executed by the processing of steps S883 to S886), presentation control according to the first presentation is realized. For example, the effects illustrated in FIGS. 53C to 53F can be realized.

  FIG. 70 is a flowchart showing the jackpot end process (step S806) in the effect control process executed by the effect control CPU 101 in the effect control microcomputer 100. In the jackpot end process, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the jackpot end effect timer is set (step S900). When the jackpot end effect timer is set, the value of the jackpot end effect timer is decremented by -1 (step S906). When the jackpot end effect timer times out, the value of the effect control process flag is changed to the waiting process for receiving the variation pattern command ( The value is updated according to step S800) (step S908).

  If the jackpot end effect timer is not set, a value corresponding to the jackpot end display time is set in the jackpot end effect timer (step S901).

  When the first effect is executed, that is, when the first effect execution flag is set (step S902), the effect control CPU 101 generates a second effect type selection random number. The count value of the counter is read, and the read value is set as the second effect type selection random value. That is, the second effect type selection random number is extracted (step S903). Then, the second effect type selection random number, the first effect type indicated by the data stored in the first effect character buffer 112a, and the received effect symbol designation command (the effect symbol 2 designation command or the effect symbol 3 designation). The type of the second effect is determined based on the command), and data indicating the type of the second effect is set in the second effect character buffer 112b (step S904). Specifically, it is shown in the table shown in FIG. 31A or FIG. 31B according to the received design symbol designation command (an example of a command that can specify the display result of the variable display of the identification information). The table is selected, and the second effect type corresponds to the determination value (determination value corresponding to the row corresponding to the first effect type in FIG. 31) that matches the value of the second effect type selection random number. Select a character.

  Then, the effect control CPU 101 resets the first effect execution flag and sets the second effect execution flag (step S905).

  In this embodiment, at the start of variable display of the next effect symbol (decoration symbol), the second effect is generated using data indicating the type of the second effect stored in the second effect character buffer 112b. The process is started (see steps S833A, S834, and S835 in FIG. 67).

  Through the processing as described above, control is executed in which the first effect is executed during the jackpot game and the second effect is executed after the jackpot game is completed. In this embodiment, since the first effect is executed during the big hit game and the second effect is executed after the big hit game is finished, the probability change state or the like is changed from the big hit game state to the predetermined time after the big hit game state. The player's interest in the special game state can be maintained and the interest of the game can be further enhanced.

Embodiment 3 FIG.
In the second embodiment, the type of the first effect and the second effect is determined based on the effect designating command transmitted by the game control microcomputer 560, but other commands transmitted by the game control microcomputer 560 are used. The type of the first effect and the second effect may be determined based on the above.

  In the third embodiment (Embodiment 3), the type of the first effect and the second effect is determined based on the background designation command transmitted by the game control microcomputer 560.

  FIG. 71 is a flowchart showing a jackpot display process (step S805) in the effect control process executed by the effect control CPU 101 in the effect control microcomputer 100 in this embodiment.

  In the second embodiment, the effect control CPU 101 determines the type of the first effect based on the first effect type selection random number value and the received effect designating command (step S871A in FIG. 68). In this embodiment, the first effect type is selected based on the first effect type selection random number value and the received background designation command (an example of a command that can specify the display result of variable display of identification information). The type is determined (step S871B). Specifically, the table corresponding to the “normal jackpot” or the table corresponding to “probability jackpot”, which is a table corresponding to the received background designation command, is selected, and the determination value coincides with the first effect type selection random value. Is selected as the type of the first effect. As shown in FIG. 13, the background designation command (normal background designation command, short-time background designation command, and probability change background designation command) is a command that can specify whether or not the gaming state is the probability variation state. . When the game control microcomputer 560 has determined in advance that the jackpot game will be a jackpot game, the game state is shifted from the normal state to the jackpot state after the jackpot game state ends. Then, in the subsequent probability change state, a probability change background designation command (see FIG. 13) is transmitted. Therefore, the background designation command is an effect control command that can specify that the game control microcomputer 560 has decided in advance that it will be a probable big hit.

  The effect control CPU 101 determines whether the received background designation command is a normal background designation command, a short-time background designation command, or a sure change background designation command. The determination is based on the data stored in the background designation command storage area to be stored. If the received background designation command is a probability change background designation command, the table corresponding to “probability big hit” is selected, and if it is another background designation command, the table corresponding to “normal big hit” is selected. Select. Other processes are the same as those in the second embodiment.

  FIG. 72 is a flowchart showing a jackpot end process (step S806) in the effect control process executed by the effect control CPU 101 in the effect control microcomputer 100 in this embodiment.

  In the second embodiment, the effect control CPU 101 receives the second effect type selection random number, the first effect type indicated by the data stored in the first effect character buffer 112a, and the received effect. Although the type of the second effect is determined based on the symbol designating command (see step S904 in FIG. 70), in this embodiment, the second effect type selection random number value and the first effect character buffer 112a are stored. The type of the second effect is determined based on the type of the first effect indicated by the stored data and the received background designation command (step S904A). Specifically, the table shown in FIG. 31A or the table shown in FIG. 31B according to the received background designation command (an example of a command that can specify the display result of variable display of identification information). A table is selected, and the character corresponding to the determination value (determination value corresponding to the line corresponding to the first effect type in FIG. 31) coincides with the value of the second effect type selection random number as the second effect type. Select.

  The effect control CPU 101 selects the table shown in FIG. 31B when the received background designation command is a sure change background designation command, and when it is another background designation command. The table shown in FIG. 31A is selected. Other processes are the same as those in the second embodiment.

  In this embodiment, the type of the first effect and the second effect is determined based on the background designation command, but either one is determined based on the background designation command and the other is controlled by another effect control command (for example, , A design symbol designation command) may be determined.

  In this embodiment, the background designation command is used instead of the effect symbol control command in the second embodiment, that is, the first effect is executed during the jackpot game and the second effect is executed after the jackpot game ends. In the first embodiment, that is, when the special effect and the effect symbol (decoration symbol) are changed, the first effect is executed and the second effect is executed during the big hit game. For this, a background designation command may be used instead of the effect design control command.

  Even in this case, instead of determining the type of the first effect and the second effect based on the background designation command, either one is determined based on the background designation command, and the other is controlled by another effect control command (for example, It may be determined on the basis of a design symbol designation command). For example, the first effect is determined based on the effect designating command, and the type of the second effect is determined based on the background specifying command.

  In the process of step S107 shown in FIG. 20, the background designation command of the type corresponding to the gaming state when the background designation command is transmitted is transmitted, but the special symbol and the effect symbol (decoration symbol) change. When the first effect is executed and the second effect is executed during the jackpot game, the type of the first effect and the type of the second effect are determined based on the background designation command. In step S107, a background designation command corresponding to the determination result of the prior determination unit may be transmitted. That is, when it is determined that the probability change big hit is determined in the processing of step S62 shown in FIG. 19, a probability change background designation command is transmitted. Send a background specification command. In such a configuration, the effect control CPU 101 reflects the determination result of the predetermination means based on the background designation command when determining the type of the first effect at the start of the change of the effect symbol (decoration symbol). Made decisions can be made.

  In each of the above-described embodiments, the probability variation state is taken as an example of the special gaming state in which the transition to the big hit gaming state is easier than in the normal state. However, the special gaming state may be changed to another gaming state. For example, when the variable display time is shortened, the number of variable displays per predetermined time increases, and as a result, the interval at which the determination of jackpot is performed is shortened, and as a result, the time-short state that makes it easier to shift to the jackpot gaming state. The special game state may be set.

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

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

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

  The present invention can be applied to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine, and can be applied to a gaming machine in which the gaming state can be controlled to a special gaming state such as a probability change state.

It is the front view which looked at the pachinko game machine from the front. It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structural example of a game control board (main board). It is a block diagram showing an example of circuit configuration of an effect control board, a lamp driver board and an audio output board. It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structural example of a power supply board. It is a flowchart which shows the main process which CPU in the microcomputer for game control performs. It is a flowchart which shows a 2 ms timer interruption process. It is explanatory drawing which shows each random number. It is explanatory drawing which shows a jackpot determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows an effect execution determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the relationship between the stop symbol of a special symbol, and a game state. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the stop symbol of an effect symbol. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of a fluctuation pattern. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the content of an effect control command. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the transmission timing of an effect control command. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the transmission timing of an effect control command. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows a starting port switch passage process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol normal process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol normal process. It is a flowchart which shows a fluctuation pattern setting process. It is a flowchart which shows an effect symbol designation | designated command transmission process. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol change process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol stop process. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit end process. It is a flowchart which shows the presentation control main process which CPU for presentation control performs. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of a command reception buffer. It is a flowchart which shows the initialization process. It is a flowchart which shows a command analysis process. It is a flowchart which shows a command analysis process. It is explanatory drawing regarding selection of the kind of 1st effect. It is explanatory drawing regarding selection of the kind of 2nd effect. It is explanatory drawing which shows the kind of 1st effect, and the kind of 2nd effect. It is explanatory drawing which shows the character used by the 1st production and the 2nd production. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example of the 1st effect in a 1st Embodiment, and a 2nd effect. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example of the 1st effect in a 1st Embodiment, and a 2nd effect. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example of the 1st effect in a 1st Embodiment, and a 2nd effect. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example of the 1st effect in a 1st Embodiment, and a 2nd effect. It is explanatory drawing which shows the flow of the process of the 1st effect in 1st Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows the flow of the process of the 1st effect in 1st Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows the flow of the process of the 2nd effect in 1st Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows the flow of the process of the 2nd effect in 1st Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows the flow of a process of a 1st effect and a 2nd effect. It is a flowchart which shows production control process processing. It is a flowchart which shows a fluctuation pattern command reception waiting process. It is a flowchart which shows an effect design fluctuation start process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of process data. It is a flowchart which shows the process during effect design change. It is a flowchart which shows an effect design fluctuation stop process. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit display process. It is a flowchart which shows processing during a big hit game. It is a flowchart which shows the other example of effect design variation start processing. It is a flowchart which shows the other example of a process during a big hit game. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example of the 1st effect in a 2nd Embodiment, and a 2nd effect. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example of the 1st effect in a 2nd Embodiment, and a 2nd effect. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example of the 1st effect in a 2nd Embodiment, and a 2nd effect. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example of the 1st effect in a 2nd Embodiment, and a 2nd effect. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example of the 1st effect in a 2nd Embodiment, and a 2nd effect. It is explanatory drawing which shows the other example of a fluctuation pattern. It is explanatory drawing which shows the other example of the content of an effect control command. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol stop process. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit end process. It is a flowchart which shows a part of command analysis process. It is a flowchart which shows a 2nd production setting process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the flow of the process of the 1st effect in a 2nd Embodiment, and a 2nd effect. It is explanatory drawing which shows the flow of the process of the 1st effect in 2nd Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows the flow of the process of the 2nd effect in 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows an effect design fluctuation start process. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit display process. It is a flowchart which shows processing during a big hit game. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit end process. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit display process. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit end process.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Pachinko machine 8 Special symbol display 9 Production display device 13 Start winning opening 20 Variable winning ball device 31 Game control board (main board)
56 CPU
80 Production control board 100 Production control microcomputer 101 Production control CPU
109 VDP
560 Microcomputer for game control

Claims (2)

Provided with an effect display device that variably displays a plurality of types of identification information that can be distinguished from each other and derives and displays the display result, and the game state is advantageous to the player when the specific display result is derived and displayed on the effect display device , the variable winning device is shifted to a specific game state that is opened a plurality of times, the specific display as compared with the special condition to shift to the specific game state when established normal gaming state after the specific game state is completed A gaming machine that shifts to a special gaming state in which results are easily derived and displayed,
And whether the display result of the identification information and the specific display results, the special and whether conditions to establish a pre-determining means for determining before deriving display the display result of the identification information,
Production selecting means for selecting the first production and the second production from a plurality of types;
In the specific gaming state, the first effect selected by the effect selecting means is executed over a plurality of times when the variable winning device is opened in the effect display device, and the first effect is executed. An effect executing means for executing the second effect selected by the effect selecting means over a plurality of variable displays in the effect display device after the end of the specific gaming state;
The effect selecting means selects the specific first effect as the first effect when the pre-deciding means determines to establish the special condition, compared to when determining that the special condition is not established. If a specific second effect is selected as the second effect at a high rate, and a predetermined second effect is selected as the second effect at a high rate when the predetermined first effect is selected as the first effect. A featured gaming machine. The effect selecting means includes at least one first effect of a plurality of types when the pre-deciding means determines that the display result of the identification information is to be the specific display result and not to be the specific display result. gaming machine of claim 1, wherein varying the selection ratio.

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