JP5555348B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine, and more specifically, based on the fact that a game is played by launching a game medium into the game area, and the game medium passes through a start area provided in the game area. , Comprising variable display means for variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information that can be distinguished from each other and deriving a display result, and when a specific display result predetermined as the variable display result of the identification information is derived, the player The present invention relates to a gaming machine that controls a specific gaming state that is advantageous to the user.

  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. Further, there is provided variable display means for displaying the identification information in a variable manner (variable display) when the game medium wins in the winning area (starting condition is established), and the variable display means displays the variable information display result. Some are configured to be controllable to a specific gaming state (hit game state) advantageous to the player when a specific display result (hit game symbol) is obtained.

  In such gaming machines, there is one that outputs information every time it detects that a predetermined number of gaming media have been paid out based on a detection signal of gaming media paid out as a prize (for example, Patent Document 1). ).

JP 2002-239168 A

  According to the technique described in Patent Document 1, information output cannot be performed until it is detected that a predetermined number of game media have been paid out. Therefore, it becomes difficult to grasp the timing when the payout conditions for paying out these game media are established outside the gaming machine, and there is a possibility that the payout management of the game media becomes inaccurate.

  This invention is made in view of the said actual condition, and aims at provision of the gaming machine which can grasp | ascertain the timing of fulfillment of payout conditions easily.

  (1) In order to achieve the above object, a gaming machine according to the present invention plays a game by launching a game medium (for example, a game ball) into the game area, and a start area (for example, a first area) provided in the game area. Based on the fact that the game medium has passed through the first start winning opening, the second starting winning opening, etc., a plurality of types of identification information (for example, special symbols, decorative symbols, etc.) that can be distinguished from each other are variably displayed. Variable display means for deriving (for example, the first and second special symbol display devices 4A and 4B, the image display device 5 and the like), and a specific display result (for example, a big hit symbol or a big hit combination) predetermined as a variable display result of identification information A game machine (for example, pachinko game machine 1 or the like) that controls to a specific game state (for example, a big hit game state) that is advantageous to the player when It is provided in a predetermined area (for example, the right game area 2B) in the game area, and a first state (for example, an open state) in which a game medium can enter and a second state (for example, in which a game medium cannot enter or difficult to enter) A variable winning device (for example, a special variable winning ball device 7 or the like) that changes to a closed state or the like, and a first changing mode (for example, a game medium that is likely to enter the variable winning device when in the specific gaming state). And a second change mode in which a game medium is less likely to enter than the first change mode (for example, 0.5). Fluctuation winning control means (for example, processing of steps S114 to S117) that can be controlled to the first state and the second state in any one of the changing modes, such as a mode in which the big prize opening is opened only for a second). The game medium should be launched into the predetermined area on the basis of the fact that the variable winning device is controlled to the first state by the variable winning control means. Informing the player (for example, a portion that performs right-handed instruction notifications AR1 and AR2 using part or all of the image display device 5, the speakers 8L and 8R, and the game effect lamp 9) and the predetermined area A start winning device (for example, a normal variable winning ball device 6B, etc.) that is provided and changes between a first guiding state in which game media easily pass through the starting area and a second guiding state in which game media cannot pass or difficult to pass through. Based on the establishment of a predetermined condition, the advantageous game for controlling the advantageous game state in which the start winning device is set to the first guiding state in comparison with the normal game state. A predetermined number of game media (for example, 10 awards) as prizes according to a predetermined game result including state control means (for example, the CPU 104 that executes the process of step S117) and the game media entering the variable prize device. A signal output process for executing a signal output process for outputting a payout condition establishment signal indicating that the payout condition has been established to the outside of the gaming machine based on the fact that the payout condition for paying out the ball has been established Corresponding to the change mode of the variable winning device is the first change mode by means (for example, the CPU 104 of the game control microcomputer 100 that executes the processes of steps S137 to S145 and S147) and the notification means. The first change notification (for example, right-handed instruction notification AR1) is performed, and the change mode of the variable winning device is the second change mode. Correspondingly, notification control means for performing second notification (for example, right-handed instruction notification AR2 or the like) different from the first notification (for example, CPU 120A of the effect control microcomputer 120 executing the processing of steps S607 and S612). The signal output processing means executes a firing signal output process for outputting a signal indicating that a gaming medium should be launched to the predetermined area to the outside of the gaming machine when in the advantageous gaming state. (For example, the processing of steps S173 to S175 is executed based on the determination of Yes in step S172).

  According to such a configuration, the first notification is performed in response to the change mode of the variable winning device being the first change mode, and the second notification is performed in response to being the second change mode. . Further, when a predetermined payout condition is satisfied, a signal output process for externally outputting a payout condition satisfaction signal indicating that the payout condition is satisfied is executed. Thereby, it is possible to accurately grasp the establishment timing of the payout condition outside the gaming machine. Furthermore, it is possible to instruct the player to perform an appropriate launch operation and to recognize the change mode of the variable winning device.

  (2) In the gaming machine of the above (1), the signal output processing means performs processing for outputting a prize payout signal indicating that a specific number of gaming media have been paid out as prizes to the outside of the gaming machine. You may perform as said signal output process (For example, the part etc. which perform the process of step S522-S532 by CPU214 of the microcomputer 150 for payout control).

  In such a configuration, it is possible to easily grasp that a specific number of game media have been paid out as prizes outside the gaming machine, and an abnormal payout operation can be specified.

  (3) In the gaming machine of the above (1) or (2), the signal output processing means uses signal output time measuring means (for example, a detection signal output timer) for measuring a time for outputting a signal to the outside of the gaming machine. CPU 104 that executes the processes of steps S140, S141, and S144, and CPU 214 that executes the processes of steps S527, S528, and S531 using the condition satisfaction signal output timer, and the power supply to the gaming machine is started. Measurement initialization processing means for executing measurement initialization processing for initializing the signal output time measurement means (for example, the CPU 104 for executing the process of step S6, the CPU 214 for executing the process of step S407, etc.) may be included. .

  In such a configuration, when power supply to the gaming machine is interrupted, it is possible to prevent a problem that one signal output is divided into two parts.

  (4) In any one of the above gaming machines (1) to (3), the gaming area includes a first gaming area (for example, the left gaming area 2A) and a second gaming area (for example, the right gaming area 2B). The game medium guided to the first game area is not easily guided to the second game area (for example, a game ball is guided along the array of nails PL), and the first game area A normal winning device (for example, a normal winning ball device 6A, etc.) through which game media can always enter is provided, the variable winning device and the starting winning device are provided at predetermined positions in the second game area, and the notification means After the control for setting the variable winning device to the first state by the variable winning control means is completed, a post-launch area notification (for example, left) that notifies the player that the game medium should be discharged to the first game area Strike instruction notification L1, AL2, etc.), and the notification control means performs a notification mode (for example, a display mode of an effect image that becomes a left-handed instruction notification AL1) when performing the post-fire area notification after the first notification is performed. ) May be different from the notification mode (for example, the display mode of the effect image that becomes the left-handed command notification AL2) when the post-fire area notification is performed after the second notification is performed.

  In such a configuration, the notification mode when the post-fire area notification is performed after the first notification is performed is different from the notification mode when the post-fire area notification is performed after the second notification is performed. Become. In this way, the post-release area notification is performed in a notification mode corresponding to the game medium discharge mode assumed in accordance with the first notification or the second notification, and an appropriate launch operation can be instructed to the player.

  (5) In any one of the gaming machines according to (1) to (4), the notification control unit may perform notification as a second notification with a notification time shorter than the first notification. .

  In such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the player from feeling uncomfortable by notification while maintaining the fairness of the game.

  (6) In any one of the gaming machines according to (1) to (5), the notification control unit performs notification that is more difficult for a player to recognize than the first notification as the second notification. Also good.

  In such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the player from feeling uncomfortable by notification while maintaining the fairness of the game.

It is a front view of the pachinko gaming machine in this embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the example of a connection with a main board | substrate, various control boards, and an electrical component. It is a figure which shows the structural example of the microcomputer for game control. It is a figure which shows the structural example of the microcomputer for payout control. It is explanatory drawing which illustrates the content etc. of an effect control command. It is explanatory drawing which illustrates the content etc. of the payout control command. It is a figure which shows the structural example of a special figure display result determination table. It is a figure which shows the structural example of a big hit classification determination table. It is a figure which illustrates a fluctuation pattern. It is a block diagram which shows the structural example of the data holding area for game control. It is explanatory drawing which shows the port output example in the microcomputer for game control. It is explanatory drawing which shows the port input example in the microcomputer for game control. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of a transition of production mode. It is a figure which shows the structural example of an effect control pattern table. It is a figure which shows an example of the background image of each production mode. It is a figure which shows the structural example etc. of an effect control pattern. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of a port output in the microcomputer for payout control. It is explanatory drawing which shows the port input example in the microcomputer for payout control. It is a figure which shows the various signals output externally. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a game control main process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the timer interruption process for game control. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a special symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a start winning determination process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a special symbol normal process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a fluctuation pattern setting process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a special symbol stop process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a jackpot end process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of an information output process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the output timing of a state signal at the time of injection. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a prize ball process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a test terminal process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of payout control main processing. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the timer interruption process for payout control. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a main control communication process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a payout information output process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of production control main processing. It is a flowchart which shows production control process processing. It is a flowchart which shows the waiting process per special figure. It is a figure which illustrates the alerting | reporting aspect in right-handed instruction alerting | reporting. It is the flowchart etc. which show the small hit end production processing. It is the flowchart etc. which show an ending effect process. It is a flowchart which shows a discharge area alerting | reporting determination process. It is a figure which illustrates the alerting | reporting aspect in left-handed instruction alert | report. It is a timing diagram which shows the output example of a launch position designation | designated signal etc., and the operation example of launch area alerting | reporting. It is a timing diagram which shows the output example of a launch position designation | designated signal etc., and the operation example of launch area alerting | reporting.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine according to the present embodiment and shows an arrangement layout of main members. The pachinko gaming machine (gaming machine) 1 is roughly composed of a gaming board (gauge board) 2 constituting a gaming board surface and a gaming machine frame (base frame) 3 for supporting and fixing the gaming board 2. The game board 2 is formed with a substantially circular game area surrounded by guide rails. In this game area, a game ball as a game medium is launched from a predetermined hitting ball launching device and driven.

  A first special symbol display device 4A and a second special symbol display device 4B are provided at predetermined positions of the game board 2 (lower left in the game area in the example shown in FIG. 1). Each of the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B is composed of, for example, 7-segment or dot matrix LEDs (light emitting diodes). A special symbol (also referred to as “special symbol”) that is a plurality of types of identification information (special identification information) that can be displayed is variably displayed (variable display). For example, each of the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B variably displays a plurality of types of special symbols composed of numbers indicating "0" to "9", symbols indicating "-", and the like. To do. The special symbols displayed on the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B are composed of numbers indicating "0" to "9", symbols indicating "-", and the like. There is no limitation, and for example, a plurality of types of lighting patterns in which the combination of the LED to be turned on and the LED to be turned off in the 7-segment LED may be set in advance as a plurality of types of special symbols. A plurality of special symbols are assigned symbol numbers corresponding thereto. As an example, symbol numbers “0” to “9” are assigned to numbers indicating “0” to “9”, and symbol numbers “10” are assigned to symbols indicating “−”. Just do it. Hereinafter, the special symbol variably displayed by the first special symbol display device 4A is also referred to as "first special symbol", and the special symbol variably displayed by the second special symbol display device 4B is also referred to as "second special symbol". .

  An image display device 5 is provided near the center of the game area on the game board 2. The image display device 5 is composed of, for example, an LCD (liquid crystal display device) or the like, and forms a display area for displaying various effect images. In the display area of the image display device 5, the first special symbol variable display by the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol variable display by the second special symbol display device 4B in the special symbol game respectively correspond to the variable display. For example, in a decorative symbol display area serving as a variable display section divided into a plurality of parts such as three, decorative symbols which are a plurality of types of identification information (decorative identification information) each identifiable are variably displayed. In the display area of the image display device 5, for example, a color symbol (also referred to as “fourth symbol”) may be variably displayed in the color symbol display area. Such variable display of decorative symbols and color symbols is also included in the variable display game.

  As an example, “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R are arranged in the display area of the image display device 5. In response to the start of either the first special symbol variation by the first special symbol display device 4A or the second special symbol variation by the second special symbol display device 4B in the special symbol game, Variations in decorative symbols (for example, vertical scroll display) are started in the “middle” and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R. Thereafter, when the fixed special symbol is stopped and displayed as a variable display result in the special symbol game, the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R in the image display device 5 are displayed. Then, the finalized decorative symbol (final stop symbol) that is the variable display result of the decorative symbol is stopped and displayed. The “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas are movable within the display area of the image display device 5 so that the decorative symbols can be displayed in a reduced or enlarged manner. May be.

  The decorative symbols variably displayed in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R include, for example, eight types of symbols (alphanumeric characters “1” to “8” or Chinese characters). Numbers “1” to “8”, English letters “A” to “H”, eight character images related to a predetermined motif, a combination of numbers, characters or symbols and character images, etc. For example, it may be a decoration image indicating a person or an animal, an object other than these, a symbol such as a character, or any other figure). In addition to these eight types of decorative symbols, a blank symbol (a symbol that does not constitute a jackpot combination) may be included. A corresponding symbol number is assigned to each of the decorative symbols. For example, symbol numbers “1” to “8” are assigned to alphanumeric characters indicating “1” to “8”, respectively.

  In the display area of the image display device 5, a start winning memory display area 5H is also arranged. In the start winning memory display area 5H, a hold memory display for displaying the variable display hold number (special figure hold memory number) in an identifiable manner is performed. Here, the holding of the variable display is based on the fact that the game ball has entered (starting winning) the first starting winning opening formed by the normal winning ball apparatus 6A and the second starting winning opening formed by the ordinary variable winning ball apparatus 6B. The start condition (also referred to as “execution condition”) for executing the variable display game such as the special figure game or the variable display of the decorative design is established, but the variable display game based on the start condition established previously is being executed. This occurs when the start condition for starting the variable display game is not satisfied due to the fact that the pachinko gaming machine 1 is controlled to the big hit game state or the small hit game state.

  As an example, the start winning storage display area 5H is provided with a plurality of display parts whose display colors are changed from left to right in order from the variable display game in which the start condition is established based on the occurrence of the start winning. Yes. Then, when the start condition of the special figure game using the first special figure (first start condition) in the first special symbol display device 4A is established based on the game ball entering the first start winning opening, When the start condition (second start condition) of the special figure game using the second special figure in the second special symbol display device 4B is established based on the fact that the game ball has entered the two start winning prize opening, normally non-display (transparent One of the display parts that are colored (for example, the leftmost display part of the display parts that are not displayed) is changed to normal display (colored). In the start winning memory display area 5H, a number indicating the special figure reserved memory number may be displayed so that the player or the like can recognize the special figure reserved memory number. In addition to the start winning memory display area 5H or in place of the start winning memory display area 5H, a display for displaying the number of special figure reserved memories may be provided. For example, the special figure hold display device includes a first reserved memory number as an effective start winning ball number that has entered the first starting winning opening formed by the normal winning ball device 6A, and a second variable ball winning device 6B formed by the normal variable winning ball device 6B. The total reserved memory number that is the total value of the second reserved memory number as the effective start winning ball number that has entered the start winning opening is displayed in an identifiable manner. The special figure hold indicator includes, for example, a number (for example, 8) of LEDs corresponding to an upper limit value (for example, “8”) in the total number of reserved memories.

  The game area formed on the board surface of the game board 2 includes a left game area 2A (first game area) on the left side and a right game area 2B (second game area) on the right side as viewed from the top of the image display device 5. There is. The left game area 2A, which is the first game area, and the right game area 2B, which is the second game area, may be divided, for example, by the end face of the image display device 5 or the nail arrangement PL in the game area. When the game ball launched from the ball striking device and driven into the game area is guided to the left game area 2A, which is the first game area, the game ball is guided along the array PL of nails, for example. It becomes impossible or difficult to guide to the right game area 2B which is the two game areas.

  In the left game area 2A, a normal winning ball device 6A is provided. For example, the normal winning ball device 6 </ b> A is provided below the center of the image display device 5. The normal winning ball device 6A forms a first start winning opening that is always kept in a certain open state by a predetermined ball receiving member, for example. As described above, the left game area 2A is provided with the normal winning ball device 6A that forms the first start winning opening through which the game ball can always enter.

  In the right game area 2B, an ordinary variable winning ball device 6B and a passing gate 41 are provided. For example, the normal variable winning ball device 6B is provided on the lower right side of the image display device 5, and the passing gate 41 is provided above the normal variable winning ball device 6B (on the right side of the image display device 5). The normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B is an electric tulip-type accessory having a pair of movable wing pieces that are changed between a closed state in a vertical position and an open state in a tilt position by a solenoid 81 for a normal electric accessory shown in FIG. (Ordinary electric accessory) is provided and a second start winning opening is formed. As an example, in the ordinary variable winning ball apparatus 6B, the movable wing piece is in the vertical position when the solenoid 81 for the ordinary electric accessory is in the off state, so that the game ball does not enter the second start winning opening. It becomes. On the other hand, in the ordinary variable winning ball apparatus 6B, the movable wing piece is in the tilting position when the solenoid 81 for the ordinary electric accessory is in the on state, so that the game ball enters the second start winning opening. State (first state). In the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B, although the game ball can enter the second start winning opening even in the closed state (second state), the game ball enters more than in the open state. You may comprise so that possibility may become low. Thus, in the right game area 2B, a normal variable winning that forms a second start winning opening that changes between a first state in which a game ball can enter and a second state in which the game ball cannot enter or is difficult to enter. A ball device 6B is provided.

  The game balls guided to the left game area 2A, which is the first game area, by the arrangement of the normal winning ball apparatus 6A, the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B, etc. in the left game area 2A and the right game area 2B are the second game area. It is impossible or difficult to pass through the passing gate 41 provided in the right game area 2B, or to pass (enter) the second start winning opening formed by the normally variable winning ball apparatus 6B. In addition, the game ball guided to the right game area 2B which is the second game area has a first start winning opening formed by the normal winning ball apparatus 6A provided in the left game area 2A which is the first game area. It is impossible or difficult to pass (enter).

  A game ball that has entered the first start winning opening formed in the normal winning ball apparatus 6A is detected by, for example, a first start opening switch 22A shown in FIG. A game ball that has entered the second start winning opening formed in the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B is detected by, for example, a second start opening switch 22B (for example, a proximity switch) shown in FIG. It is detected by a photo sensor. Whether or not an abnormal winning has occurred is determined based on the detection result of the winning confirmation switch 25 in addition to the detection result by the second start port switch 22B, and a security signal is output to the outside based on the detection of the occurrence of the abnormal winning. That's fine. Based on the detection of the game ball by the first start port switch 22A, a predetermined number (for example, three) of game balls are paid out as prize balls (prize game media), and the first reserved memory number is a predetermined upper limit value. If it is less than (for example, “4”), the first start condition is satisfied. Based on the detection of the game ball by the second start port switch 22B, a predetermined number (for example, three) of game balls are paid out as prize balls, and if the second reserved memory number is equal to or less than a predetermined upper limit value, The second start condition is satisfied. The number of prize balls to be paid out based on the detection of the game ball by the first start port switch 22A and the number of prize balls to be paid out based on the detection of the game ball by the second start port switch 22B. May be the same number or different numbers.

  A special variable winning ball apparatus 7 is provided below the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B. That is, the special variable winning ball device 7 is provided in the right game area 2B, which is the second game area. The special variable winning ball apparatus 7 includes a large winning opening door that is opened and closed by a large winning opening door solenoid 82 shown in FIG. 2, and changes into an open state and a closed state by the large winning opening door. Form. As an example, in the special variable winning ball apparatus 7, when the solenoid 82 for the special prize opening door is in the off state, the special prize opening door closes the special prize opening. On the other hand, in the special variable winning ball apparatus 7, when the solenoid 82 for the big prize opening door is in the ON state, the big prize opening door opens the big winning opening. A game ball that has entered a special winning opening formed in the special variable winning ball apparatus 7 is detected by, for example, a count switch 23 shown in FIG. Based on the detection of game balls by the count switch 23, a predetermined number (for example, 14) of game balls are paid out as prize balls.

  A normal symbol display 20 is provided at a predetermined position of the game board 2 (in the example shown in FIG. 1, the lower left of the game area). As an example, the normal symbol display 20 is composed of LEDs or the like, and displays (variable) normal symbols (also referred to as “normal” or “normal”), which are a plurality of types of identification information different from the special symbols. indicate. Such variable display of normal symbols is called a general game (also referred to as “normal game”). The normal symbol display 20 variably displays the normal symbol by, for example, lighting a plurality (two) of decorative lamps (or LEDs) in a predetermined order. The normal symbol display 20 is composed of 7 segments, dot matrix LEDs, etc., like the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B, and is a number indicating, for example, “0” to “9”. A plurality of types of normal symbols composed of symbols such as “−” or the like may be variably displayed. A plurality of types of normal symbols are assigned symbol numbers corresponding thereto. As an example, symbol numbers “0” to “9” are assigned to numbers indicating “0” to “9”, and symbol numbers “10” are assigned to symbols indicating “−”. Just do it. In addition, a universal figure holding indicator that displays the number of universal figure holding memories as the number of effective passing balls that have passed through the passage gate 41 may be provided.

  In addition to the above-described configuration, the surface of the game board 2 is provided with a windmill for changing the flow direction and speed of the game ball and a number of obstacle nails. In addition, as a winning opening different from the first starting winning opening, the second starting winning opening, and the large winning opening, for example, a single or plural general winning openings that are always kept in a certain open state by a predetermined ball receiving member are provided. May be. In this case, a predetermined number (for example, 10) of game balls may be paid out as prize balls based on the fact that the game balls that have entered any of the general prize opening are detected by the general prize ball switch 24. In the lowermost part of the game area, there is provided an out port through which game balls that have not entered any winning port are taken. Speakers 8L and 8R for reproducing and outputting sound effects and the like are provided at the left and right upper positions of the gaming machine frame 3, and a game effect lamp 9 is provided at the periphery of the game area. A decorative LED may be arranged around each structure (for example, the normal winning ball device 6A, the normal variable winning ball device 6B, the special variable winning ball device 7, etc.) in the game area of the pachinko gaming machine 1.

  A hitting operation handle (operation knob) 31 that is operated by a player or the like to launch a game ball as a game medium toward a game area is provided at the lower right position of the gaming machine frame 3. For example, the hitting operation handle adjusts the resilience of the game ball according to the operation amount (rotation amount) by the player or the like. The hitting operation handle only needs to be provided with a single shot switch or a touch ring (touch sensor) for stopping the driving of a shooting motor included in the hitting ball shooting device. At a predetermined position of the gaming machine frame 3 below the gaming area, a game ball paid out as a prize ball or a game ball lent out by a predetermined ball lending machine is held (stored) so as to be supplied to a ball hitting device. ) Is provided. For example, an operation button 30 that can be operated by the player by a pressing operation or the like is provided at a predetermined position on the front side of the upper surface of the upper plate.

  In the normal game by the normal symbol display 20, the normal symbol display such that the game ball passing through the passing gate 41 provided above the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B is detected by the gate switch 21 shown in FIG. After the normal figure start condition for executing the normal symbol variable display at 20 is established, the normal figure start condition for starting the normal symbol variable display, for example, the end of the previous general symbol game, is established. Start based on what you did. In this ordinary game, when a predetermined time elapses after starting the change of the normal symbol, the fixed normal symbol that is the variable display result of the normal symbol is stopped and displayed (derived display). At this time, if a specific normal symbol (a symbol per ordinary symbol) is stopped and displayed as the fixed ordinary symbol, the variable symbol display result of the ordinary symbol becomes “per ordinary symbol”. On the other hand, if a normal symbol other than the symbols per regular symbol is stopped and displayed as the fixed regular symbol, the variable symbol display result of the regular symbol becomes “ordinary symbol losing”. Corresponding to the fact that the variable symbol display result of the normal symbol is “per normal symbol”, the expansion / release control is performed in which the movable wing piece of the electric tulip constituting the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B is tilted, for a predetermined time. When elapses, normal opening control is performed to return to the vertical position.

  The special symbol game by the first special symbol display device 4A is caused by the fact that the game ball that has entered the first starting winning port formed in the normal winning ball device 6A is detected by the first starting port switch 22A shown in FIG. After the first start condition is satisfied, the operation is started based on the fact that the first start condition is satisfied, for example, due to the end of the previous special figure game, the big hit gaming state, or the small hit gaming state. In the special game by the second special symbol display device 4B, a game ball that has entered the second start winning port formed in the normal variable winning ball device 6B is detected by the second start port switch 22B shown in FIG. After the second start condition is satisfied, the second start condition is started based on the fact that the second special condition game, the big hit gaming state or the small hit gaming state has ended, for example.

  In the special symbol game by the first special symbol display device 4A or the second special symbol display device 4B, after the special symbol variable display is started, when a predetermined time (special symbol fluctuation time) has elapsed, the variable symbol variable display result The fixed special symbol that becomes is stopped and displayed (derived display). At this time, if a specific special symbol (big hit symbol) is stopped and displayed as a confirmed special symbol, it becomes a “big hit” as the specific display result, and a predetermined special symbol (small bonus symbol) different from the big hit symbol is stopped and displayed. Then, it becomes “small hit” as a predetermined display result, and it becomes “lost” if a special symbol other than the big hit symbol or the small hit symbol is stopped and displayed. After the variable display result in the special figure game becomes “big hit”, the game is controlled to the big hit gaming state as the specific gaming state. Further, after the variable display result in the special figure game becomes “small hit”, the game is controlled to the small hit game state different from the big hit game state. In the pachinko gaming machine 1 in this embodiment, as an example, numbers indicating “1”, “3”, and “7” are jackpot symbols, numbers indicating “5” are jackpot symbols, and “−” is indicated. The symbol is a lost pattern. It should be noted that each symbol such as a big win symbol, a small bonus symbol, or a lose symbol in the special symbol game by the first special symbol display device 4A is different from each symbol in the special symbol game by the second special symbol display device 4B. Alternatively, a special symbol common to both special symbol games may be a big hit symbol, a small bonus symbol, or a lost symbol. Note that the big hit symbol or the small hit symbol may be a predetermined symbol (for example, “ko”) instead of a special symbol indicating a number so that the player cannot recognize or difficult to recognize.

  In this embodiment, among the special symbols indicating the numbers “1”, “3”, and “7” that are jackpot symbols, the special symbols indicating the numbers “3” and “7” are 15 round jackpot symbols, A special symbol indicating the number “1” is a two-round jackpot symbol. In the big hit gaming state (15 round big hit state) as a multi-round specific game state controlled after the 15 round big hit symbol is stopped and displayed as a confirmed special symbol in the special figure game, the special prize winning ball door of the special variable winning ball apparatus 7 is controlled. However, the special variable winning ball apparatus 7 is opened by opening the large winning opening in a predetermined period (for example, 29 seconds) which is the first period or a period until a predetermined number (for example, 10) of winning balls are generated. A round is executed to change to the first state advantageous to the player. In this way, the special prize opening door that has opened the special prize opening during the round receives the game ball falling on the surface of the game board 2 and then closes the special prize opening, thereby enabling the special variable winning ball apparatus 7. Is changed to the second state, which is disadvantageous to the player, and one round is completed.

  In the 15 round big hit state, the number of executions of the round, which is the opening cycle of the big prize opening, becomes the first round number (for example, “15”). A game in the 15 round big hit state in which the number of round executions is “15” is also referred to as a 15-time open game. In such a 15 round big hit state, 15 balls are obtained each time a game ball wins a big winning opening. The 15 round round big hit state is also referred to as a first specific gaming state. When the special variable winning ball apparatus 7 is in the first state, the gaming ball can enter the big winning opening, and when the special variable winning ball apparatus 7 is in the second state, the gaming ball cannot enter the big winning opening or It may be difficult to enter.

  In the big hit gaming state (two round big hit state) as a small round specific gaming state controlled after the two round big hit symbol is stopped and displayed as a confirmed special symbol in the special figure game, the special variable winning ball apparatus 7 is played in each round. The period for changing to the first state that is advantageous to the player (the period in which the big prize opening is opened by the opening / closing plate) is a second period (for example, 0.5 seconds) shorter than the first period in the 15 round big hit state. . In the 2 round big hit state, the number of executions of the round becomes a second round number (for example, “2”) smaller than the first round number in the 15 round big hit state. Note that in the 2 round big hit state, it is only necessary to control the number of executions of the round to be the second round number, and other control may be performed in the same manner as the 15 round big hit state. A game in the round two big hit state in which the number of round executions is “2” is also referred to as a two-time open game. In the two-round big hit state, in a predetermined winning ball device provided separately from the special variable winning ball device 7 in each round, the predetermined winning port serving as the big winning port is changed from the closed state to the open state. Thus, the second state that is disadvantageous for the player may be changed to the first state that is advantageous for the player, and the state may be returned to the second state after a predetermined period (first period or second period) has elapsed.

  In the two round big hit state, 15 game balls are obtained if a game ball wins a big winning opening, but the opening period of the big winning opening is the second period (1 second), which is very short. Therefore, the two-round big hit state is a big hit gaming state in which a game is not substantially obtained. The 2 round big hit state is also referred to as a second specific gaming state. In addition, the big hit gaming state as the low round specific gaming state is not limited to the number of round execution times compared to the big hit gaming state as the multiple round specific gaming state. For example, the round execution number is small round specific gaming state. While the state and the multi-round specific gaming state are the same, in the small-round specific gaming state, the upper limit period (for example, 2 seconds) for opening the big prize opening is the upper limit period for the multi-round specific gaming state (for example, 29 seconds) ) May be shorter. That is, the big hit gaming state as the small round specific gaming state is that the period in which the big prize opening is changed to the open state in each round is a second period shorter than the first period in the multi-round specific gaming state, The number of executions may be at least one of the second round numbers less than the first round number in the multi-round specific gaming state.

  Out of the special symbols that indicate the numbers of “3” and “7” that will be the 15-round jackpot symbol, the special symbol that indicates the number of “3” is stopped and displayed as a confirmed special symbol in the special-game game. After the state is completed, time-shortening control (time reduction control) is performed in which the special symbol variation time (special symbol variation time) in the special symbol game is shortened compared to the normal state (low probability low base state). A gaming state in which such a short-time control is performed but a probability variation control (probability variation control) described later is not performed is one of the special gaming states, and is referred to as a short-time state (or a low-accuracy high-base state). The normal state is a normal game state as a game state different from a specific game state such as a big hit game state, a probability variation state, and a short-time state, and is an initial setting state of the pachinko gaming machine 1 (for example, when a system reset is performed) Thus, the same control as in the state in which the initialization process is executed after power-on is performed. The time-shortening control in the time-shortening state is that when any one of the conditions in which a special game is executed a predetermined number of times (for example, 100 times) and the variable display result is “big hit” is satisfied first. Just finish. Like the special symbol indicating the number “3”, 15 rounds, which is controlled to the short-time state after the jackpot gaming state based on being stopped and displayed as the confirmed special symbol in the special game, is 15 rounds. It is usually referred to as a jackpot symbol (also referred to as “15 round non-probable big hit symbol”). Further, the fact that the 15 round non-probable big hit symbol is stopped and displayed and the variable display result is “big hit” is called “15 round normal big hit” (also referred to as “15 round non-probable big hit”).

  Out of the special symbols that indicate the numbers of “3” and “7” that will be the big hit symbol of 15 rounds, the special symbol that shows the number of “7” is stopped and displayed as a confirmed special symbol in the special figure game. After the state is finished, the probability variation control (probability variation control) is continuously performed together with the time reduction control. The gaming state in which the probability variation control is performed together with the time-shortening control is one of the special gaming states, and is referred to as a time-variable probability varying state (or a highly accurate high base state). As a result of the probability variation control, the probability that the variable display result will be “big hit” and controlled to the big hit gaming state in the variable display of each special figure game or decoration pattern will be higher than in the normal state or the short time state. To improve. The probability variation control may be continued until the next variable display result is “big hit” regardless of the number of executions of the special game. Alternatively, in the probability variation control, as in the case of the time reduction control, any one of the conditions that the special display game is executed a predetermined number of times (for example, 100 times) and the variable display result is “big hit” first. When established, the process may be terminated. 15 rounds, such as a special symbol indicating the number “7”, are controlled to a probable change state such as a high-accuracy high-base state after the jackpot gaming state based on being stopped and displayed as a confirmed special symbol in the special figure game. The jackpot symbol is referred to as a 15-round probability variable jackpot symbol. Further, the fact that the 15-round probability variable big hit symbol is stopped and displayed and the variable display result is “big hit” is referred to as “15 round probability variable big hit”.

  Probability control is continuously performed after the two-round big hit state is ended based on the special symbol indicating the number “1” that becomes the two-round big hit symbol being stopped and displayed as the confirmed special symbol in the special figure game. Whether or not the time reduction control is performed after the end of the two round big hit state may be determined depending on whether or not the time reduction control is performed before the two round big hit state is reached. That is, after the two round big hit state based on the fact that the confirmed special symbol indicating the number “1” is stopped and displayed in the special figure game executed when the time-shortening control is not performed, the probability variation control is performed. On the other hand, it is controlled to a time-variable state (highly accurate low base state) without time-shortening control. After the two-round jackpot state is over based on the fact that the fixed special symbol indicating the number “1” is stopped and displayed in the special game executed when the time control is performed in the time-short state or the time-varying probability changing state. Are controlled to a time-variable accuracy changing state (high accuracy high base state) in which probability variation control is performed together with time-shortening control. Like the special symbol indicating the number “1”, the two-round jackpot symbol that is subjected to the probability variation control after the jackpot gaming state based on being stopped and displayed as the confirmed special symbol in the special symbol game is performed is the two-round probability variation. It is referred to as a big hit symbol (also referred to as a “probable big hit symbol”). The fact that the two-round probability variable big hit symbol is stopped and displayed and the variable display result is “big hit” is called “two rounds probable big hit” (also called “surprise probability” or “suddenly probable big hit”). Note that “probability” when the time reduction control is being performed is particularly referred to as “time / medium urgent accuracy”, and “rush accuracy” when the time reduction control is not being performed is particularly referred to as “time / shortness urgent accuracy”.

  The low accuracy low base state and the low accuracy high base state are also collectively referred to as “low accuracy state”. The highly accurate and high base state and the highly accurate and high base state are collectively referred to as a “highly accurate state”. The low accuracy low base state and the high accuracy low base state are collectively referred to as “low base state”. The low accuracy high base state and the high accuracy high base state are collectively referred to as a “high base state”.

  When the time reduction control is performed, the normal symbol display unit 20 uses the normal symbol display unit 20 to make the normal symbol change time (normal symbol change time) shorter than that in the normal state, or to change the normal symbol in each time the normal symbol game. Control for improving the probability that the display result is “per normal figure” than in the normal state, and tilt control of the movable blade piece in the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B based on the fact that the variable display result is “per normal figure”. The second start condition is such that the game ball can easily enter the second start winning opening, such as a control to make the tilt control time for performing longer than that in the normal state and a control to increase the number of tilts than in the normal state. Control that is advantageous to the player is performed by increasing the possibility of establishment. Note that any one of these controls may be performed, or a plurality of controls may be performed in combination. As described above, the control that facilitates the entry of the game ball into the second start winning opening as well as the time reduction control is also referred to as high opening control (or advantageous opening control). By performing the high opening control, the frequency at which the second start winning opening becomes the expanded opening state is higher than when the high opening control is not performed. As a result, the second start condition for executing the special figure game using the second special figure by the second special symbol display device 4B is easily established, and the special figure game can be executed frequently. In addition, the time until the variable display result becomes “big hit” is shortened. Therefore, in the time-short state or the time-change probability change state, it becomes easier to reach a big hit gaming state than in the normal state. The period during which the high opening control can be performed is also referred to as a high opening control period, and this period may be the same as the period during which the time reduction control is performed.

  In the gaming area of the pachinko gaming machine 1 shown in FIG. 1, a normal variable winning ball device 6B and a passing gate 41 are provided in the right gaming area 2B, which is the second gaming area. Therefore, when high opening control is performed together with time reduction control, if the game ball is launched toward the right game area 2B, the game ball passes through the second start winning opening formed in the normally variable winning ball apparatus 6B ( Easy to enter). In addition, since the time-saving control is performed, it is possible to quickly digest the special game and shorten the time until the variable display result becomes “big hit”. Thus, during the time-shortening control in which the high-opening control is performed together with the time-shortening control, the optimal launch position (launch target position) of the game ball in the game area is the right game area 2B.

  After the small hit symbol is stopped and displayed as the confirmed special symbol in the special symbol game, the small hit game state different from the big hit game state is controlled. In this small hit gaming state, a variable winning operation is performed in which the special variable winning ball apparatus 7 is changed from the second state to the first state and then returned to the second state in the same manner as in the two round big hit state. That is, in the small hit game state, for example, the operation of opening the large winning opening for the second period by the large winning opening door provided in the special variable winning ball apparatus 7 is repeatedly executed until the second number of times is reached. In the small hit gaming state, similarly to the two round big hit state, the period in which the big prize opening is in the open state is the second period, and the number of executions of the operation in which the big prize opening is in the open state is the second number. It may be controlled so that at least one of them is performed. After the small hit gaming state ends, the gaming state is not changed, and the game state before the variable display result becomes “small hit” is continuously controlled. That is, the big hit probability immediately before the control to the small hit gaming state is started is maintained (continued) without being changed during the control to the small hit gaming state or after the control to the small hit gaming state is finished. Is done. In addition, when the short-time control is performed immediately before the control to the small hit gaming state is started, it is changed even during the control to the small hit gaming state and after the control to the small hit gaming state ends. Short time control is performed. A game in the small hit gaming state in which the number of times that the big winning opening is opened by the variable winning operation is “2” is also referred to as a two-time open game, similar to the game in the two round big hit state. When the winning ball device provided separately from the special variable winning ball device 7 in each round in the two round big hit state is changed to the first state, the same as the two round big hit state in the small hit gaming state. In the aspect, the winning ball apparatus may be changed to the first state.

  In the 15-round big hit state, the game ball easily passes (enters) through the big winning opening due to a long upper time limit for opening the big winning opening in each round or a large number of rounds. On the other hand, in the 2 round big hit state or the small win game state, the upper limit time for opening the big winning opening in each round or variable winning action is short, or the number of execution times of the round or variable winning action is small. For example, it is difficult for a game ball to pass (enter) through the big prize opening. Thus, in the big hit gaming state, like the 15 round big hit state, the open state (first state) and the closed state (first state) are the first change modes in which the game ball easily passes (enters) through the big winning opening. 2 states), the first specific gaming state that can be controlled and the 2nd round big hit state, and the opening state (the first state) and the closing in the second change mode in which the game ball is difficult to pass (enter) the winning prize opening A state (second state) and a controllable second specific gaming state are included. Note that the first specific gaming state is not limited to the state in which the change mode of the big prize opening becomes the first change mode in all rounds, and the change mode of the big prize opening in at least one round is the first change mode. What is necessary. That is, the first specific gaming state may be any if the change mode of the big prize opening includes the first change mode. On the other hand, the second specific gaming state only needs to be such that the change mode of the big prize opening is only the second change mode.

  The small hit gaming state is a special gaming state that is different from the big hit gaming state in that the previous gaming state is continued after the end. The change mode of the big prize opening in the small hit game state is only the second change mode, similarly to the two round big hit state as the second specific gaming state included in the big hit game state.

  In the gaming area of the pachinko gaming machine 1 shown in FIG. 1, a special variable winning ball device 7 is provided in the right gaming area 2B, which is the second gaming area. Therefore, when the big winning opening is changed between the open state (first state) and the closed state (second state) under the control of the big hit game state or the small hit game state, the game ball is launched toward the right game area 2B. Then, there is a possibility that a large number of prize balls may be obtained as prizes when the game balls pass (enter) through the big prize opening. In this way, when the big prize opening changes between the open state (first state) and the closed state (second state) in the big hit game state or the small hit game state, the optimal launch position of the game ball in the game area (Launch target position) is the right game area 2B. However, in the 2 round big hit state and the small hit game state, the change in the big winning opening in the 15 round big hit state due to the small number of times that the big winning opening is in the open state (first state) and the short opening time. Compared to the mode (first variation mode), the game ball is a variation mode (second variation mode) in which it is difficult for the game ball to pass (enter) through the big prize opening.

  In the display area of the image display device 5, variable display of decorative symbols is performed in response to variable display of special symbols by the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B. That is, in the display area of the image display device 5, each of the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5 </ b> L is based on the establishment of either the first start condition or the second start condition. At 5C and 5R, variation of the decorative symbols is started, and, for example, the fixed decorative symbols that are variable display results of the decorative symbols in a predetermined order such as “left” → “right” → “middle” are stopped and displayed (derived display). Note that the procedure for stopping and displaying the confirmed decorative symbols is not limited to the procedure for stopping and displaying the decorative symbols in the predetermined order in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R. In each of the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R, there may be included one that stops and displays a decorative symbol that becomes a confirmed decorative symbol simultaneously.

  In the period from the start of variable display of decorative symbols to the end of variable display due to the stop display of the fixed decorative symbols in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R, The decorative display variable display state may be a predetermined reach state. Here, the reach state means a decorative symbol (“reach variation symbol” which has not been stopped yet when the decorative symbol stopped and displayed in the display area of the image display device 5 forms part of the jackpot combination. Is also a display state in which the variation continues, or a display state in which all or part of the decorative symbols change synchronously while constituting all or part of the jackpot combination. Specifically, in some of the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R (for example, “left” and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L and 5R) in advance. The remaining decorative symbol display area (for example, “medium”) that has not yet been stopped when the decorative symbol (for example, the decorative symbol indicating the alphanumeric character “7”) that constitutes the determined jackpot combination is stopped. In the symbol display area 5C, etc., the decorative pattern is changing, or the decorative symbol is a big hit in all or part of the “left”, “middle”, “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, 5R. This is a display state that changes synchronously while constituting all or part of the combination. Corresponding to the reach state, a character image (effect image simulating a person) different from the decorative design is displayed in the display area of the image display device 5, or the display mode of the background image is changed. Or change the variation of the decorative pattern. Such changes in the character image display, the background image display mode, and the decorative pattern change mode are referred to as reach effect display (or simply reach effect).

  In addition, during the variable display of decorative symbols, unlike the reach effect, the variable display state of decorative symbols may become the reach state, and the variable display result may be a “hit” In some cases, a variable display effect for notifying the player by a variable display mode of a decorative design or the like may be executed. In this embodiment, variable display effects such as “slip” and “pseudo-continuous” are set to be executable.

  In the variable display effect of “sliding”, two or more decorative symbol display areas are displayed after changing the decorative symbols in all of the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R. After temporarily displaying a decorative symbol in the decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5R (for example, “left” and “right”), a predetermined number (for example, “1” or “2”) decorative symbol display area (for example, either “left” decorative symbol display area 5L or “right” decorative symbol display area 5R or both), the decorative symbol is changed again and then stopped. Thus, the effect display for changing the decorative design to be stopped is performed. Here, the temporary stop display is the stop of the decorative symbol that is performed before the fixed decorative symbol is stopped and displayed (final stop display) because the variation time determined for each of a plurality of types of variation patterns described later has elapsed. Refers to the display. In the temporary stop display, while the decorative symbol is stopped and displayed, it is stopped and displayed to the player by, for example, performing fluctuation display and changing the decorative symbol immediately after stopping for a short time. It is only necessary to notify that the decorative pattern is not fixed. Alternatively, in the temporary stop display, the decorative design may be re-fluctuated after the decorative design is stopped to the extent that the player recognizes that the decorative design that has been stopped is confirmed.

  In the “pseudo-ream” variable display effect, “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbols are based on the fact that one of the first start condition and the second start condition of the special figure game is satisfied once. After the decorative symbols are changed in all of the display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R, the decorative symbols are temporarily stopped and displayed in all the decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R, and then all the decorative symbol display areas 5L, The effect display for changing the decorative design again (pseudo continuous change) at 5C and 5R can be performed a predetermined number of times (for example, up to four times). As an example, in the “variable display” variable display effect, “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R constitute any one of a plurality of types of pseudo continuous chances. A decorative design is displayed temporarily. Note that the quasi-continuous chances may be determined in advance as a combination of decorative symbols included in the special combination.

  If a special symbol that will be a lost symbol is stopped and displayed as a special symbol to be confirmed in the special symbol game, the decorative symbol variable display state will not reach the reach state after the variable symbol variable display starts. There are cases in which a fixed decorative symbol that is a non-reach combination is stopped and displayed. Such a decorative display variable display mode is referred to as a “non-reach” (also referred to as “normal loss”) variable display mode when the variable display result is “losing”.

  When a special symbol that becomes a losing symbol is stopped and displayed as a confirmed special symbol in the special symbol game, it corresponds to the fact that the decorative symbol variable display state has reached the reach state after the decorative symbol variable display has started. Then, after the reach effect is executed, or when the reach effect is not executed, a confirmed decorative pattern that becomes a predetermined reach-losing combination may be stopped and displayed. Such a variable display result of the decorative design is referred to as a variable display mode of “reach” (also referred to as “reach lose”) when the variable display result is “losing”.

  When the special symbol indicating the number “3”, which is the 15-round normal jackpot symbol, is stopped and displayed as a special symbol to be determined in the special-game game as a 15-round jackpot symbol, the decorative symbol variable display state Corresponding to having reached the reach state, after the predetermined reach effect is executed, or the reach effect is not executed, the fixed decorative symbol that is the predetermined normal jackpot combination is stopped and displayed. Here, for example, the symbol pattern that is variably displayed in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R in the image display device 5 is used as the confirmed decorative symbol that is normally a big hit combination. Among the decorative symbols “1” to “8”, any one of the decorative symbols whose symbol numbers are an even number “2”, “4”, “6”, “8” is “left”, “middle”, What is necessary is just to be able to be stopped and displayed on a predetermined effective line in each of the “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R. In this way, the decorative symbols having the even number “2”, “4”, “6”, “8” constituting the normal jackpot combination are referred to as normal symbols (also referred to as “non-probable variation symbols”). Then, in response to the confirmed special symbol in the special figure game becoming the normal jackpot symbol, the fixed ornament symbol of the normal jackpot combination is stopped after the predetermined reach effect is executed or the reach effect is not executed. The variable display mode of the decorative pattern to be displayed is referred to as a variable display mode (also referred to as “big hit type”) of “non-probable change” (also referred to as “normal big hit”) when the variable display result is “big hit”. . After the variable display result is “big hit” in the “non-probable” big hit type in this way, it is controlled to the 15 round big hit state, and when the 15 round big hit state is finished, it is controlled to the short time state (low probability high base state). Will be.

  When the special symbol indicating the number “7”, which is the 15-round probability variable big-hit symbol, is stopped and displayed as a special symbol to be determined in the special-game game as a 15-round big-hit symbol, the decorative symbol is variably displayed. Corresponding to the reach state, after the reach effect similar to the case where the decorative display variable display mode is “normal” or after the reach effect is not executed, the predetermined probability change big hit There are cases in which a fixed decorative symbol that is a combination is stopped and displayed. Here, for example, the symbol numbers that are variably displayed in the decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R of the “left”, “middle”, and “right” in the image display device 5 are the fixed decorative symbols that are probable big hit combinations. Among the decorative symbols “1” to “8”, any one of the decorative symbols whose symbol numbers are odd numbers “1”, “3”, “5”, “7” are “left”, “middle”, What is necessary is just to be able to be stopped and displayed on a predetermined effective line in each of the “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R. In this way, the decorative symbols having odd numbers “1”, “3”, “5”, and “7” constituting the probability variation big hit combination are referred to as probability variation symbols.

  When a 15-round probability variable big hit symbol is stopped and displayed as a fixed special symbol in a special figure game, a fixed decorative symbol that is a non-probable big hit combination may be stopped and displayed as a variable display result of the decorative symbol. Good. In this way, the variable display mode in which the 15 round probability variable big hit symbol is stopped and displayed as the fixed special symbol in the special figure game regardless of whether the fixed decorative symbol is a non-probable variable big hit combination or a variable probability big hit combination is variable display. This is referred to as a variable display mode of “probability change” (also referred to as “big hit type”) when the result is “big hit”. In this way, after the variable display result is “big hit” in the “big change” big hit type, it is controlled to the 15 round big hit state, and when the 15 round big hit state is finished, the short time accurate change state (high accurate high base state) is entered. Will be controlled.

  A re-lottery effect may be executed during the variable display of the decorative symbols in which the confirmed decorative symbol is a non-probable variable big hit combination or a probable variable big hit combination. In the re-lottery effect, after the decorative symbols that are the non-probable big hit combinations are temporarily stopped and displayed in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R on the image display device 5, for example, “ In the left, middle, and right decorative pattern display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R, the same decorative pattern is changed again to change, and the decorative pattern (probable variable pattern) that is a probable big hit combination is not changed. One of the decorative symbols (non-probable variable symbols) that is a probable big hit combination is stopped and displayed as a final decorative symbol (final stop display). Here, when the re-lottery effect is executed when the big hit type is “non-probable change”, as the re-lottery effect, the confirmed decoration that becomes the non-probable big hit combination after re-changing the temporarily stopped display decorative pattern A change promotion promotion effect that derives and displays a symbol is performed. On the other hand, when the re-lottery effect is executed when the big hit type is “probable change”, as the re-lottery effect, the definite decoration that becomes the probable big hit combination after re-variation of the temporarily stopped decorative pattern The changing promotion success effect during the stop display of the symbol may be executed, or the changing promotion failure effect during the change may be executed.

  After the definitive decorative symbol that is a non-probable big hit combination is derived and displayed, the next round will start after one round ends in the big hit gaming state at the start of the big hit gaming state or during the round in the big hit gaming state. During the big hit, which is a notification effect on whether or not to control to the probable change state in the period until the start, the period from the end of the last round in the big hit gaming state to the start of the next variable display game, etc. A promotion effect may be executed. Note that a notification effect similar to the jackpot promotion effect may be executed during the first variable display game after the end of the jackpot gaming state. The jackpot promotion effect that is executed after the last round in the jackpot game state is particularly called “ending promotion effect”.

  In the jackpot promotion effect, there is no jackpot promotion success effect informing that there is a promotion in which the game state becomes a probabilistic state even though the confirmed decoration pattern is a non-probable big hit combination, and there is no promotion in a promiscuous state There is a promotion promotion failure during jackpot. For example, in the jackpot promotion effect, the decorative symbol is variably displayed in the display area of the image display device 5 and either the non-probable variable symbol or the probable variable symbol is stopped and displayed as the effect display result, or the decorative symbol variable display What is necessary is just to alert | report so that a player can recognize the presence or absence of the promotion which will be in a probability change state by displaying the effect image different from.

  Corresponding to the fact that the confirmed special symbol in the special figure game becomes a probable big hit symbol, after the reach effect similar to the case where the decorative symbol variable display mode is “normal” is executed, or the reach effect is executed. The fixed display pattern of the normal jackpot combination is stopped and displayed, the success promotion effect during change or the promotion effect during jackpot is not performed, and the variable display mode when “15 rounds probable big hit” is not notified is “ Among the jackpot types of “probability change”, it is also said that it is a jackpot type of “first probability change” in particular.

  Corresponding to the fact that the confirmed special symbol in the special figure game becomes the probability variable big hit symbol, the variable display mode when the fixed decorative symbol of the probability variable big hit combination is stopped and displayed without performing the promotion effect while changing is “probable change” Among jackpot types, it is also said that it is a jackpot type of “second probability variation” in particular. Corresponding to the fact that the confirmed special symbol in the special figure game becomes a probable big hit symbol, if the confirmed decorative symbol of the probable big hit combination is stopped and displayed by performing the promotion success while changing, or the fixed decorative symbol of the normal jackpot combination is displayed The variable display mode in the case where it is notified that the promotion effect during the big hit is performed and the control is made to the probability change state after the stop display is made, is the big hit type of the “third probability change”, among the “big change” big hit types. Also called. When the big hit type is “2nd probability change” or “3rd probability change”, the player can recognize that after 15 rounds of big hit status, it will be in a time-changed accuracy change state (high accuracy high base state). When the big hit type is “first probability change”, whether the short-time state (low-accuracy base state) or short-time accuracy change state (high-accuracy base state) is reached after the end of the 15 round big hit state. The player becomes unrecognizable or difficult to recognize.

  As a confirmed special symbol in the special symbol game, a special symbol indicating the number “1” which is a two-round big hit symbol is stopped or displayed, or a special symbol indicating the number “2” which is a small hit symbol is stopped and displayed. In such a case, the variable display state of the decorative symbols may not reach the reach state, and any one of a combination of a plurality of types of fixed decorative symbols that are determined in advance as the second opening chance may be displayed. In addition, when the special symbol indicating the number “1”, which is a two-round jackpot symbol, is stopped and displayed as a confirmed special symbol in the special symbol game, the variable symbol display state of the decorative symbol is changed to the reach state. Then, after a predetermined reach effect is executed, a fixed decorative symbol that becomes a predetermined reach combination may be stopped and displayed. Corresponding to the fact that the confirmed special symbol in the special figure game becomes a special symbol indicating the number of “1” which is a two-round jackpot symbol, the variable display mode of the decorative symbols in which various fixed ornament symbols are stopped and displayed is variable. This is referred to as a variable display mode (also referred to as a “hit type”) of “surprise accuracy” (also referred to as “surprise accuracy big hit” or “sudden probability change big hit”) when the display result is “big hit”. Thus, after the variable display result is “big hit” by the variable display mode of “surprise accuracy”, it is controlled to the two round big hit state, and when the two round big hit state is finished, the high accuracy and high base state is changed to the short time accuracy changing state. (In the case of short- and medium-speed collision accuracy) or in the high-accuracy low base state, it is controlled to be in the time-varying probability change state (in the case of short- and long-term collision accuracy).

  The pachinko gaming machine 1 includes various power supply boards 10, a main board 11, an effect control board 12, an audio control board 13, a lamp control board 14, a payout control board 15, a launch control board 17 as shown in FIG. A control board is mounted. The pachinko gaming machine 1 is also equipped with a relay board 18 for relaying various control signals transmitted between the main board 11 and the effect control board 12. Note that the audio control board 13 and the lamp control board 14 may be configured as independent boards that are separate from the effect control board 12, or may be integrated into the effect control board 12 and configured as one board. In addition, various control boards such as an information terminal board are disposed on the back surface of the pachinko gaming machine 1.

  The power supply board 10 is installed independently of each control board such as the main board 11, the effect control board 12, and the payout control board 15, and generates a voltage used by each control board and mechanism component in the pachinko gaming machine 1. For example, the power supply board 10 generates AC24V, VLP (DC + 24V), VSL (DC + 30V), VDD (DC + 12V), VCC (DC + 5V), and VBB (DC + 5V). The power supply substrate 10 only needs to be equipped with the backup power supply circuit 500 and the clear switch 501. The backup power supply circuit 500 only needs to include a capacitor charged from a power supply line of VDD (DC + 5V), for example.

  A power supply monitoring circuit may be mounted on the power supply board 10. The power monitoring circuit is configured by using, for example, a power failure monitoring reset module IC, and is a circuit capable of outputting a power cut signal. For example, when a predetermined power supply voltage (VSL as an example) used in the pachinko gaming machine 1 exceeds a predetermined value (+22 V as an example), the power supply monitoring circuit outputs a power-off signal in an off state (high level). On the other hand, when the period during which the predetermined power supply voltage is equal to or lower than the predetermined value continues for a predetermined time (for example, 56 ms), an on-state (low level) power-off signal is output. Alternatively, the power supply monitoring circuit may output a power-off signal in an on state immediately when a predetermined power supply voltage used in the pachinko gaming machine 1 becomes a predetermined value or less. For example, the power-off signal may be a negative logic electric signal that is turned on when it is low and turned off when it is high. The power-off signal output from the power supply monitoring circuit is amplified by, for example, an output driver circuit mounted on the power supply board 10 and then transmitted to the main board 11 and the payout control board 15 via a predetermined connector and signal line. The The power-off signal may be transmitted to the main board 11 via the payout control board 15.

  The predetermined power supply voltage to be monitored for outputting the power-off signal is preferably a voltage higher than a specified value (for example, +12 V) in the power supply voltage VDD for operating the switch, such as the power supply voltage VSL. As a result, the power supply voltage VDD for operating the switch decreases and various switches (for example, the gate switch 21, the first and second start port switches 22A and 22B, the count switch 23, the general winning port switch 24, the winning confirmation switch 25, etc.). Before the operation state becomes unstable, by outputting a power-off signal (turning on), it is possible to prevent the progress of game control based on erroneous detection by various switches. That is, when the power supply voltage VDD for operating the switch is lowered, the switch output of the negative logic (turned on at a low level) is turned on, but the power supply voltage VSL that drops earlier than the power supply voltage VDD is monitored to supply power By recognizing the stop, it becomes possible to enter a state of waiting for power supply recovery and not detecting the switch output before the switch output is turned on.

  In place of the solenoid drive power supply voltage VSL, for example, a power cut-off signal is generated by monitoring an arbitrary power supply voltage higher than a specified value in the switch operation power supply voltage VDD, for example, the power supply voltage VLP for lighting the light emitter. You may make it output. In addition, the condition for detecting the stop of the supply of power supplied to the pachinko gaming machine 1 from the outside is not limited to the fact that the predetermined power supply voltage used in the pachinko gaming machine 1 has become a predetermined value or less. Any condition can be used as long as it is possible to detect that the power has been cut off. For example, the AC wave such as AC 24V may be monitored to detect that the AC wave has stopped, or the signal obtained by digitizing the AC wave may be monitored and the AC signal may be generated when the digital signal becomes flat. It may be a detection condition for the interruption.

  The clear switch 501 mounted on the power supply substrate 10 has a push button structure, for example, and outputs a clear signal that is turned on in response to a predetermined operation such as a pressing operation. The clear signal may be an electrical signal that is turned on when it becomes low level in response to a predetermined operation such as a pressing operation. Alternatively, the clear signal may be an electric signal that is turned on when the clear signal becomes a high level in response to a predetermined operation such as a pressing operation. The clear signal output from the clear switch 501 is transmitted to the main board 11 via, for example, a predetermined connector or signal line, and is transmitted from the main board 11 to the dispensing control board 15. When the clear switch 501 is not operated, the output of the clear signal is stopped (set to high level or low level). Note that the clear switch 501 may have a configuration other than the push button structure (for example, a slide switch structure, a toggle switch structure, a dial switch structure, or the like).

  The main board 11 is a main-side control board on which various circuits for controlling the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1 are mounted. For example, the main board 11 is equipped with a game control microcomputer (corresponding to game control means) 100 for controlling the pachinko gaming machine 1 in accordance with a program, a switch circuit 114 and a solenoid circuit 115. The switch circuit 114 receives detection signals from various switches such as the gate switch 21, the first and second start port switches 22 </ b> A and 22 </ b> B, the count switch 23, the general winning port switch 24, and the winning confirmation switch 25. The switch circuit 114 takes these detection signals and transmits them to the game control microcomputer 100. The solenoid circuit 115 outputs drive signals for the solenoids 81 and 82 in accordance with a command from the game control microcomputer 100.

  FIG. 3 shows a configuration example of the game control microcomputer 100. The game control microcomputer 100 is, for example, a one-chip microcomputer, and includes a clock circuit 101, a reset / interrupt controller 102, a random number circuit 103, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 104, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 105, and the like. , A RAM (Random Access Memory) 106, a timer circuit (PIT) 107, a serial communication circuit (SCI) 108, and an external bus interface 109.

  The clock circuit 101 included in the game control microcomputer 100 is a circuit that generates an internal system clock by, for example, dividing an oscillation signal input to the control external clock terminal by two. The internal system clock generated by the clock circuit 101 is supplied to various circuits such as the CPU 104 that control the progress of the game in the game control microcomputer 100. The internal system clock is also supplied to the random number circuit 103 and is used for monitoring the frequency of the random number clock, for example.

  The reset / interrupt controller 102 provided in the game control microcomputer 100 is for controlling various reset and interrupt requests generated inside or outside the game control microcomputer 100. The reset controlled by the reset / interrupt controller 102 includes a system reset and a user reset. The system reset is a reset that occurs when a low level signal is input to the external system reset terminal for a certain period. The user reset is a reset that occurs due to a predetermined factor, such as a watchdog timer (WDT) time-out signal or a non-designated area travel prohibition (IAT).

  The random number circuit 103 included in the game control microcomputer 100 is a circuit that generates numerical data that is a random number value having a predetermined update range, such as a 16-bit random number. In this embodiment, on the main board 11 side, a random number value MR1 for determining a special figure display result, a random value MR2 for determining a jackpot type, a random value MR3 for determining a variation pattern type, and a random value for determining a variation pattern Numerical data indicating each of MR4 and random number value MR5 for determining a normal map display result is controlled so that it can be counted (updated). In addition, in order to improve a game effect, random numbers other than these may be used. Such random numbers used to control the progress of the game are also referred to as game random numbers. Based on the numerical data extracted from the random number circuit 103, the CPU 104 processes or updates various numerical data by software using a random counter different from the random number circuit 103, for example, a random counter provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 106. Thus, numerical data indicating all or part of the random number values MR1 to MR5 may be counted. Alternatively, the CPU 104 counts (updates) a part of numerical data indicating the random number values MR1 to MR5 by software using only a random counter provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 106 without using the random number circuit 103, for example. It may be. As an example, the numerical data extracted by the CPU 104 from the random number circuit 103 serving as hardware is processed by software, so that the numerical data indicating the random value MR1 for determining the special figure display result is updated. The numerical data indicating MR2 to MR5 may be updated by software by the CPU 104 using a random counter or the like.

  The random value MR1 for determining the special figure display result is determined whether the variable display result of the special symbol or the like in the special figure game is controlled as a big hit game state, whether the variable display result is "small hit" or not. This is a random value used to determine whether or not to control the gaming state. The random value MR2 for determining the big hit type is a random value used for determining the big hit type as one of a plurality of types when the variable display result is “big hit”. The random number value MR3 for determining the variation pattern type is a random value used to determine the variation pattern type of the decorative design as one of a plurality of types prepared in advance. Each variation pattern type only needs to be configured to include one or a plurality of variation patterns classified based on, for example, an effect operation performed during variable display of decorative symbols. Note that some of the plurality of variation pattern types may be configured to include a common variation pattern, and all of the variation patterns included in one variation pattern type may be the other variation pattern. Some may be configured to be included in the type. The random number value MR4 for determining the variation pattern is a random value used for determining one of a plurality of types of variation patterns of decorative symbols based on the determination result of the variation pattern type. The random number value MR5 for determining the normal figure display result indicates whether or not the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B is controlled to the open state (first state) with the variable symbol display result of the normal symbol in the normal figure game as “per normal figure”. , A random value used to determine.

  The CPU 104 included in the game control microcomputer 100 executes a user program (game control processing program for game control) based on a control code read from the ROM 105, thereby executing game control in the pachinko gaming machine 1. CPU. When such game control is executed, the CPU 104 temporarily stores fixed data from the ROM 105, the CPU 104 temporarily stores various data in the RAM 106 and temporarily stores the various data in the RAM 106, and the CPU 104 temporarily stores the data in the RAM 106. A variable data read operation for reading out various variable data being received, a reception operation in which the CPU 104 receives input of various signals from the outside of the game control microcomputer 100 via the external bus interface 109, the serial communication circuit 108, etc., and the CPU 104 is in an external bus A transmission operation for outputting various signals to the outside of the game control microcomputer 100 via the interface 109 and the serial communication circuit 108 is also performed.

  As described above, in the game control microcomputer 100, the CPU 104 executes control in accordance with the program stored in the ROM 105. Therefore, the game control microcomputer 100 (or CPU 104) is hereinafter referred to as executing (or performing processing). Specifically, the CPU 104 executes control according to a program. The same applies to microcomputers mounted on substrates other than the main substrate 11.

  The ROM 105 provided in the game control microcomputer 100 stores a control code indicating a user program (game control processing program for game control), fixed data, and the like. The ROM 105 may store a security check program. The CPU 104 reads the security check program stored in the ROM 105 when the game control microcomputer 100 shifts to the security mode in response to the power-on of the pachinko gaming machine 1 or the occurrence of a system reset, and the stored contents of the ROM 105 are changed. A security check process is executed to check whether or not it has been done. The security check program may be stored in a built-in memory different from the ROM 105. Further, the security check program may correspond to a security check process for inspecting the storage content of the external memory externally attached to the game control microcomputer 100 via the external bus interface 109, for example.

  The RAM 106 provided in the game control microcomputer 100 provides a work area for game control. Here, at least a part of the RAM 106 may be a backup RAM that is backed up by a backup power supply created in the backup power supply circuit 500 of the power supply substrate 10. That is, even if the power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 1 is stopped, at least a part of the contents of the RAM 106 is stored for a predetermined period.

  The timer circuit 107 provided in the game control microcomputer 100 is a circuit that enables real-time interruption and time measurement. The timer circuit 107 only needs to update the timer value in response to a change in the count clock signal generated based on the internal system clock (for example, a falling timing that changes from a high level to a low level). .

  The serial communication circuit 108 provided in the game control microcomputer 100 is a circuit for inputting / outputting (transmitting / receiving) signals by serial communication with the payout control board 15 (the payout control microcomputer 150). The serial communication circuit 108 may be used for bidirectional serial communication with the payout control microcomputer 150 mounted on the payout control board 15. Further, the serial communication circuit 108 may be used for unidirectional (only transmission) serial communication with the effect control microcomputer 120 mounted on the effect control board 12. Thereby, the signal input with respect to the main board | substrate 11 from the production control board | substrate 12 side can be prohibited, and an improper act can be prevented.

  The external bus interface 109 provided in the game control microcomputer 100 is an interface function between the external bus and the internal bus of the chip constituting the game control microcomputer 100, a direction control function of the address bus, data bus, and each control signal, etc. Is a bus interface. For example, the external bus interface 109 is connected to an external memory or an external input / output device externally attached to the game control microcomputer 100, and address signals, data signals, various control signals, etc. with these external devices As long as it transmits and receives.

  The presentation control board 12 shown in FIG. 2 is a sub-side control board independent of the main board 11, receives a control signal transmitted from the main board 11 via the relay board 18, and receives the image display device 5. Various circuits for controlling the presentation operation by the production electrical parts such as the speakers 8L and 8R and the game effect lamp 9 are mounted. That is, the effect control board 12 provides effects such as the display operation in the image display device 5, all or part of the sound output operation from the speakers 8 </ b> L and 8 </ b> R, and all or part of the on / off operation in the game effect lamp 9. A function of determining the control content for causing the electrical component to execute a predetermined performance operation is provided.

  On the effect control board 12, an effect control microcomputer 120, a VDP (video display processor) 121, and an effect data memory 122 that control the effect operation in the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to a program are mounted.

  The sound control board 13 is a control board for sound output control provided separately from the effect control board 12, and outputs sound from the speakers 8L and 8R based on commands and control data from the effect control board 12. For example, a processing circuit for executing audio signal processing is mounted. The lamp control board 14 is a control board for lamp output control provided separately from the effect control board 12, and is turned on / off in the game effect lamp 9 and the like based on commands and control data from the effect control board 12. A lamp driver circuit for driving is mounted.

  The effect control microcomputer 120 includes a CPU 120A that operates according to a program stored in a built-in or external effect control ROM (not shown). In addition, the production control microcomputer 120 may include a serial communication circuit that inputs (receives) signals through serial communication with the main board 11 (game control microcomputer 100). The CPU 120 </ b> A of the effect control microcomputer 120 causes the VDP 121 to perform display control of the image display device 5 based on the effect control command as the control signal transmitted from the main board 11.

  The CPU 120 </ b> A of the effect control microcomputer 120 outputs a command for reading necessary data from the effect data memory 122 to the VDP 121 in accordance with the received effect control command. The effect data memory 122 stores character image data and moving image data displayed on the image display device 5, specifically, a person, characters, figures, symbols, etc. (including effect symbols), and background image data in advance. It has a storage area to keep it. The VDP 121 reads image data from a predetermined area of the effect data memory 122 in accordance with a command from the CPU 120A. The VDP 121 executes display control based on the read image data.

  The CPU 120 </ b> A of the effect control microcomputer 120 reads pattern data constituting an effect control pattern stored in advance in a predetermined area of the effect data memory 122, and sends various control commands to the sound control board 13 and the lamp control board 14. It may be output.

  The payout control board 15 is a sub-side control board independent of the main board 11, receives a control command and a notification signal transmitted from the main board 11, and controls the payout operation of the game ball by the payout motor 51. Various circuits are installed. That is, the payout control board 15 has a function of controlling the award ball payout operation by the payout motor 51. The payout control board 15 may have a function of controlling the ball lending operation by controlling the driving of the payout motor 51 in accordance with the communication result with the card unit via the interface board, for example.

  On the payout control board 15, a payout control microcomputer 150 for controlling the payout operation of the game ball according to a program and a switch circuit 151 are mounted. The switch circuit 151 receives wiring for receiving detection signals from the full tank switch 26 and the ball break switch 27, and detection signals from the payout motor position sensor 71, the payout count switch 72, and the error release switch 73. Wiring is connected. In addition, the payout control board 15 is configured to transmit a command signal for performing a payout control of the game ball in the payout motor 51 and a command signal for performing display control in the error display LED 74. Wiring and wiring for performing communication with the card unit are connected via the interface board.

  Here, the full tank switch 26 is installed on the side wall of the surplus ball passage that communicates between the striking ball supply tray and the surplus ball receiving tray, for example, below the back of the game board 2, and detects the full tank of the surplus ball receiving tray. Is. A lot of game balls based on award balls or ball lending requests are paid out, the batting supply tray becomes full, and after the game balls reach the contact port, when game balls are paid out, the game balls pass through the surplus ball passage. It is led to the extra ball tray. When the game ball is further paid out, for example, a predetermined sensing lever presses the full switch 26 to turn on.

  Further, the ball break switch 27 is installed downstream of the guide rail that guides the game ball to the payout device in which the payout motor 51 is installed, for example, on the back of the game board 2, and via a curve rod downstream of the guide rail. This is for detecting the presence or absence of game balls in two rows of ball passages communicated with each other. As an example, the ball break switch 27 is locked by a locking piece at a position where it can be detected that 27 to 28 game balls are present in the ball path, and the maximum payout number (for example, 100) It is possible to confirm that at least 25 pieces corresponding to a circle are secured. The guide rail guides a game ball from a storage tank that stores a game ball as a supply ball above the back of the game board 2 to a payout device, and a payout motor 51 is provided below the ball passage. The payout device in which is installed is fixed.

  The error release switch 73 is a switch for releasing the error state by software reset when the payout control microcomputer 150 is controlled to a predetermined error state. The error display LED 74 is composed of, for example, a 7-segment LED, and is used to display error codes corresponding to various errors based on an error flag set by the payout control microcomputer 150.

  FIG. 4 shows a configuration example of the payout control microcomputer 150. The payout control microcomputer 150 is a one-chip microcomputer similar to the game control microcomputer 100, for example, and includes a clock circuit 211, a reset / interrupt controller 212, a random number circuit 213, a CPU 214, a ROM 215, and a RAM 216. , A timer circuit (PIT) 217, a serial communication circuit (SCI) 218, and an external bus interface 219. The random number circuit 213 only needs to have the same configuration as the random number circuit 103 included in the game control microcomputer 100, and the serial communication circuit 218 is similar to the serial communication circuit 108 included in the game control microcomputer 100. What is necessary is just to have the structure of. The payout control microcomputer 150 may not include the random number circuit 213.

  The ROM 215 provided in the payout control microcomputer 150 stores a payout control program. In the payout control microcomputer 150, for example, the CPU 214 reads out the payout control program stored in the ROM 215, and performs various processes based on the payout control command transmitted from the main board 11, the communication result with the card unit, and the like. By executing, the game ball payout operation is controlled.

  The RAM 216 provided in the payout control microcomputer 150 is provided with an area for holding various data used for controlling the payout operation of the game ball. At least a part of the RAM 216 is a backup RAM that is backed up by a backup power supply created in the backup power supply circuit 500 of the power supply board 10. That is, even if the power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 1 is stopped, at least a part of the contents of the RAM 216 is saved for a predetermined time. In this embodiment, it is assumed that the entire RAM 216 is a backup RAM that is backed up.

  The launch control board 17 shown in FIG. 2 is for controlling the launch operation of the game ball by a predetermined launch device in accordance with the operation amount of the operation knob 31. For example, a wiring for transmitting a drive signal from the power supply board 10 or the main board 11, a wiring for transmitting a connection signal from the card unit, and a wiring from the operation knob 31 are connected to the firing control board 17, and Wiring to the motor 61 is connected. The connection signal from the card unit may be branched by the payout control board 15 and transmitted to the launch control board 17, or may be sent from the card unit to the launch control board 17 without going through the payout control board 15. May be. The firing control board 17 adjusts the driving force of the firing motor 61 corresponding to the operation amount of the operation knob 31. For example, the launch motor 61 elastically deforms the launch spring by a driving force adjusted by the launch control board 17, and transmits the biasing force of the launch spring to the striking hammer to hit the game ball. It is fired toward the game area at a speed corresponding to the operation amount.

  The control command transmitted from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12 via the relay board 18 is, for example, an effect control command transmitted as an electric signal. The effect control command includes, for example, a display control command used for controlling an image display operation in the image display device 5, a voice control command used for controlling sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R, and a game effect lamp 9. And a lamp control command used for controlling the lighting operation of the decorative LED and the like. FIG. 5A is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the contents of the effect control command used in this embodiment. The effect control command has, for example, a 2-byte structure, and the first byte indicates MODE (command classification), and the second byte indicates EXT (command type). The first bit (seventh bit [bit 7]) of the MODE data is always “1”, and the first bit of the EXT data is “0”. The form of the effect control command shown in FIG. 5A is an example, and other command forms may be used. In this example, the production control command has a 2-byte configuration, but the number of bytes constituting the production control command may be 1 or a plurality of 3 or more.

  In the example shown in FIG. 5A, the command 8001H is a first change start command for designating the start of change of the first special figure in the special figure game by the first special symbol display device 4A. The command 8002H is a second change start command for designating the start of change of the second special figure in the special figure game by the second special symbol display device 4B. The command 81XXH is a decoration that is variably displayed in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decoration symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R in the image display device 5 in response to the variable display of the special symbol in the special symbol game. This is a variation pattern designation command for designating a variation pattern such as a symbol. Here, XXH indicates an unspecified hexadecimal number, and may be a value arbitrarily set according to the instruction content by the effect control command. In the variation pattern designation command, different EXT data is set according to the variation pattern to be designated.

  In this embodiment, the first and second variation start commands and the variation pattern designation command are prepared as separate production control commands. On the other hand, the designation content indicating which of the first special figure and the second special figure is to be changed and the designated content of the fluctuation pattern are configured to be specified by one effect control command. Also good. As an example, an effect control command in which EXT data is set corresponding to a combination of a special symbol (first special figure or second special figure) that starts change and a change pattern is prepared. You may enable it to specify the special symbol and fluctuation pattern which become a fluctuation start. Here, when the special symbol and the variation pattern that start the variation can be specified by one effect control command, the special symbol (the first special feature that starts the variation) for one variation pattern. There are cases where it is necessary to prepare two types of effect control commands according to the figure or the second special figure). On the other hand, if an effect control command for designating a special symbol for starting variation and an effect control command for designating a variation pattern are prepared separately, two types of effect control commands corresponding to the special symbol for starting variation are prepared. And the number of effect control commands corresponding to the number of types of variation patterns may be prepared, and the types of commands prepared in advance, the storage capacity of the command table, and the like can be reduced.

  The command 8CXXH is a variable display result notification command for designating a variable display result such as a special symbol or a decorative symbol. In the variable display result notification command, for example, as shown in FIG. 5 (B), the prior determination result of whether the variable display result is “lost”, “big hit”, or “small hit”, and the variable display result is In the case of “big hit”, different EXT data depending on whether it is “non-probability change”, “first probability change” to “third probability change”, “short-time out-of-speed accuracy”, or “short-time out-of-range accuracy” Is set.

  In this embodiment, the variation pattern designation command and the variable display result notification command are prepared as separate presentation control commands. On the other hand, the variation pattern indicated in the variation pattern designation command and the variable display result indicated in the variable display result notification command may be configured to be specified by one effect control command. As an example, EXT data is set corresponding to a combination of a fluctuation pattern and a variable display result (such as “losing”, “big hit”, “small hit”, or a big hit type in the case of “big hit”). An effect control command may be prepared, and information that can specify the variation pattern and the variable display result may be transmitted by the effect control command. Alternatively, the variation pattern and the variable display result may be specified by three or more effect control commands. Here, when the variation pattern and the variable display result are configured to be specified by a single effect control command, a plurality of types of effects corresponding to a plurality of types of variable display results for one variation pattern. You may need to provide control commands. On the other hand, if the production control command for designating the variation pattern and the production control command for notifying the variable display result are prepared separately, the number of production control commands corresponding to the number of types of the variation pattern and the variable display result are provided. The number of effect control commands corresponding to the number of types may be prepared, and the types of commands prepared in advance, the storage capacity of the command table, and the like can be reduced.

  The command 8F00H is a decorative symbol stop command for designating stop of variable display of decorative symbols in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R in the image display device 5. The decoration symbol stop command may not be transmitted from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12. In this case, the variable display time corresponding to the variation pattern designated by the variation pattern designation command is specified on the side of the effect control board 12, and the elapsed time from the start of variable display of the decorative design is variable display time. Even if the production control command from the main board 11 is not received, the determined decorative design may be displayed in a completely stopped state to confirm the variable display result.

  The command A0XXH is a jackpot start designation command (also referred to as “fanfare command”) for designating display of an effect image indicating the start of the jackpot gaming state. In the jackpot start designation command, for example, EXT data similar to that of the variable display result notification command is set, so that different EXT data is set according to the jackpot type, “short-time out-of-range accuracy” or “short-time out-of-range accuracy”, etc. That's fine. Alternatively, in the jackpot start designation command, the EXT data set according to the jackpot type or the like may be different from the variable display result notification command.

  The command A1XXH is a special winning opening opening designation command that designates display of an effect image during a period in which the big winning opening is open in each round, corresponding to the big hit gaming state. The command A2XXH designates display of an effect image (for example, an effect image in an interval between rounds) during a period in which the winning a prize opening is changed from an open state to a closed state at the end of each round corresponding to the big hit gaming state. This is a command after opening the mouth. For example, the command for opening a special prize opening or the command specifying after opening a special prize opening, for example, the number of rounds executed in a round 15 big hit state (for example, “1” to “15”), Corresponding to “1” or “2”), different EXT data is set. Depending on whether the game is in the 15th round big hit state or the 2nd round big hit state, a special winning opening opening designation command or a special winning opening open designation command may be prepared separately. On the other hand, the number of types of effect control commands can be reduced by using the common winning opening opening designation command and the special winning opening opening designation command common to the 15 round big hit state and the 2 round big hit state. In the case of the two round big hit state, the designation command during opening of the big prize opening and the designation command after opening the big prize opening may not be transmitted. In the big hit game state, regardless of whether the big prize opening is in an open state in each round or whether the big prize opening is changed from an open state to a closed state at the end of each round, A continuous production operation may be executed from the start time to the end time of the state.

  The command A3XXH is a jackpot end designation command for designating display of an effect image at the end of the jackpot gaming state. In the jackpot end designation command, for example, EXT data similar to the variable display result notification command or the jackpot start designation command is set. Data is set. Alternatively, in the jackpot end designation command, the EXT data set according to the jackpot type or the like may be different from the variable display result notification command or the jackpot start designation command.

  The command A600H is a small hit start designation command for designating display of an effect image indicating the start of the small hit gaming state. Command A700H is a small hit end designation command for designating display of an effect image at the end of the small hit gaming state. In the case of the small hit gaming state, a special command during opening of a big prize opening or a designation command after opening of a big prize opening may be transmitted as in the case of the two round big hit condition. Alternatively, in the case of the small hit gaming state, as in the case of the two round big hit state, the special command opening designation command or the special designation command after the big prize opening release may not be transmitted.

  The command B001H is for executing a special game using the first special figure by the first special symbol display device 4A based on the fact that the game ball has won the first start winning opening formed by the normal winning ball apparatus 6A. This is a first start port winning designation command for notifying that the first start condition is satisfied. The command B002H is for executing a special figure game using the second special figure by the second special symbol display device 4B based on the fact that the game ball has won the second starting prize opening formed by the normally variable winning ball apparatus 6B. This is a second start opening prize designation command for notifying that the second start condition is established.

  The command C0XXH displays the first special figure reserved memory number and the second special figure in order to display the special figure reserved memory number in a start winning memory display unit 5H provided in the display area of the image display device 5 in an identifiable manner. This is a pending storage count notification command for notifying the total pending storage count that is the total value with the pending storage count. In response to the fact that either the first start condition or the second start condition is satisfied, for example, either the first start opening prize designation command or the second start opening prize designation command is transmitted as the reserved storage number notification command. Following this, it is transmitted from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12. In the reserved memory count notification command, for example, the total number of stored data (for example, “1” to “8”) of the hold data in the first special figure hold storage unit 591A and the hold data in the second special figure hold storage unit 591B shown in FIG. Correspondingly, different EXT data is set. Thereby, on the side of the production control board 12, when either the first start condition or the second start condition is satisfied, the reserved memory number notification command transmitted from the main board 11 is received, and the first special drawing is received. The total number of stored hold data in the hold storage unit 591A and the second special figure hold storage unit 591B can be specified.

  In this embodiment, the first and second start opening winning designation commands and the reserved memory number designation command are prepared as separate presentation control commands. On the other hand, the notification content indicating which of the first start condition and the second start condition is satisfied and the notification content of the total reserved storage number are configured to be specified by one effect control command. Also good. As an example, an effect control command in which EXT data is set corresponding to the combination of the established start condition (the first start condition or the second start condition) and the total reserved memory number is prepared. The established start condition and the total number of reserved memories may be specified. Here, when it is possible to specify which one of the first start condition and the second start condition is satisfied by one effect control command together with the total reserved memory number, for example, the upper limit value of the total reserved memory number is “8”. ”, It is necessary to prepare a total of 16 types of effect control commands of 8 types corresponding to the case where the first start condition and the second start condition are satisfied. On the other hand, if an effect control command that can specify which of the first start condition and the second start condition is established and an effect control command that can specify the total number of reserved memories are prepared separately, the first If there are prepared a total of 10 types of effect control commands comprising two types of effect control commands that can specify each of the start condition and the second start condition and eight types of effect control commands that can specify the total number of reserved memories. It is often possible to reduce the types of commands prepared in advance and the storage capacity of the command table.

  The control command transmitted from the main board 11 to the payout control board 15 is, for example, a payout control command transmitted as an electrical signal. The payout control command is set for transmitting the payout control command by the CPU 104 provided in the game control microcomputer 100 mounted on the main board 11, and the game control microcomputer 100 is provided based on the setting. It is transmitted to the payout control board 15 by the serial communication circuit 108. In the following description, the transmission operation of the payout control command from the main board 11 to the payout control board 15 includes a series of operations by the CPU 104 and the serial communication circuit 108 provided in the game control microcomputer 100. To do.

  For example, a payout notification command as an electrical signal is transmitted from the payout control board 15 to the main board 11. The payout notification command is set to transmit the payout notification command by the CPU 214 provided in the payout control microcomputer 150 mounted on the payout control board 15, and the serial number provided in the payout control microcomputer 150 is based on the setting. It is transmitted to the main board 11 by the communication circuit 218. In the following description, the transmission operation of the payout notification command from the payout control board 15 to the main board 11 includes a series of operations by the CPU 214 and the serial communication circuit 218 provided in the payout control microcomputer 150. To do. In addition, in the following description, not only a command for a predetermined operation from one of the main board 11 and the payout control board 15 to the other, but also a notification signal for notifying the other of the operation state of the other is a payout control command or a payout It shall be included in the notification command.

  FIG. 6A is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the contents of a control command transmitted / received between the main board 11 and the payout control board 15. Various control commands are transmitted and received between the game control microcomputer 100 mounted on the main board 11 and the payout control microcomputer 150 mounted on the payout control board 15 in order to perform various controls related to payout operations. Is done. In this embodiment, the payout control command transmitted from the main board 11 side to the payout control board 15 side includes a connection confirmation command and a prize ball number command. Also, the payout notification command transmitted from the payout control board 15 side to the main board 11 side includes a connection OK command, a prize ball number reception command, a prize ball end command, and a prize ball preparation command.

  The connection confirmation command is used to check whether the connection state between the game control microcomputer 100 and the payout control microcomputer 150 is normal or not at regular intervals (for example, 1 second). It is a control command transmitted from the computer 100.

  The connection OK command is a control command that the payout control microcomputer 150 transmits as a response signal in response to reception of the connection confirmation command. Different data may be set in the second byte of the connection OK command depending on whether or not a predetermined error has occurred in the payout control microcomputer 150 and the type of error in the case of occurrence. Different data may be set according to the control state other than the error.

  The award ball number command is a control command for notifying the number of game balls (for example, any one of 0 to 15) to be paid out, and is transmitted by the game control microcomputer 100 based on the occurrence of a winning. For the second byte of the award ball number command, different data may be set according to the number of game balls to be paid out. The winning ball number acceptance command is a control command that the payout control microcomputer 150 transmits as a response signal in response to receiving the winning ball number command.

  The winning ball end command is a control command transmitted by the payout control microcomputer 150 based on the end of the winning ball payout operation. The prize ball preparation command is used to notify that a prize ball payout operation is not completed due to a long time in the prize ball payout operation, a ball rental operation or a predetermined error. The payout control microcomputer 150 transmits a control command. Similar to the connection OK command, different data may be set in the second byte of the winning ball preparation command depending on the error state. In the prize ball preparation command, the gaming control microcomputer 100 can specify the state in which the prize ball payout operation cannot be started immediately because the ball rental operation is in progress or the state in which the prize ball payout operation is being executed. It may be shown.

  In addition to the transmission / reception of the payout control command and the payout notification command by serial communication, the main board 11 and the payout control board 15 also transmit / receive payout control signals. FIG. 6B is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the content of a payout control signal transmitted and received between the main board 11 and the payout control board 15. In this embodiment, the payout control signal includes a connection signal and a payout detection signal.

  The connection signal is output when the main board 11 rises (when the game control microcomputer 100 starts up), and a signal for notifying the payout control board 15 that the main board 11 has risen (of the main board 11). The connection signal indicates that the prize ball can be paid out. The connection signal is 1-bit data, and is a payout control board from the main board 11 side by one signal line. It may be transmitted to the 15 side.

  The payout detection signal is a signal for notifying the main board 11 side of the detection result every time it is detected that a predetermined number (for example, 10) of prize balls have been paid out on the payout control board 15 side. is there. The payout detection signal is 1-bit data, and may be transmitted from the payout control board 15 side to the main board 11 side by one signal line.

  In the ROM 105 provided in the game control microcomputer 100, various selection data and decision data used for controlling the progress of the game, in addition to the control code to be a user program for game control and a security check program, Stores table data and the like. For example, the ROM 105 stores data constituting a plurality of determination tables, determination tables, setting tables and the like prepared for the CPU 104 to perform various determinations, determinations, and settings. Further, the ROM 105 stores table data constituting a plurality of command tables used for the CPU 104 to transmit control signals serving as various control commands from the main board 11 and a variation pattern for storing a plurality of types of variation patterns of decorative symbols. Table data constituting the table is stored.

  FIG. 7 shows a configuration example of the special figure display result determination table stored in the ROM 105. In this embodiment, as the special figure display result determination table, a first special figure display result determination table 130A shown in FIG. 7A and a second special figure display result determination table 130B shown in FIG. Are prepared in advance. The first special figure display result determination table 130A has a variable display result before a fixed special symbol that is a variable display result is derived and displayed in the special figure game using the first special figure by the first special symbol display device 4A. Whether or not to control the big hit gaming state as "big hit" and whether to control the small hit game state as "small hit" based on the random value MR1 for determining the special figure display result It is a table that is referenced to determine. The second special figure display result determination table 130B shows the variable display result before the fixed special symbol that becomes the variable display result is derived and displayed in the special figure game using the second special figure by the second special symbol display device 4B. Whether or not to control the big hit gaming state as "big hit" and whether to control the small hit game state as "small hit" based on the random value MR1 for determining the special figure display result It is a table that is referenced to determine.

  In the first special figure display result determination table 130A, the gaming state in the pachinko gaming machine 1 is a normal state, a short time state (low accuracy state), or a probability variation state (high accuracy state including both short time and no short time). Depending on whether or not there is a numerical value (decision value) to be compared with the random number MR1 for determining the special figure display result, it is assigned to the special figure display results of “big hit”, “small hit”, and “losing”. In the second special figure display result determination table 130B, depending on whether the gaming state is a normal state, a short-time state (low probability state), or a probability variation state (high probability state), the special figure display result determination table 130B A numerical value (determined value) to be compared with the numerical value MR1 is assigned to the special figure display result of “big hit” or “losing”.

  In the first special figure display result determination table 130A and the second special figure display result determination table 130B, the table data indicating the determination value compared with the random value MR1 for determining the special figure display result indicates the special figure display result as “big hit”. ”Is data for determination assigned to the determination result as to whether or not to control to the big hit gaming state. In each of the first special figure display result determination table 130A and the second special figure display result determination table 130B, when the gaming state is the probability variation state (high probability state), the normal state or the short time state (low probability state). More decision values are assigned to the “big hit” special figure display result. As a result, in the probability variation state (high probability state) in which the probability variation control is performed in the pachinko gaming machine 1, the special figure display result is “big hit” compared to the normal state or the short time state (low probability state). If the state is controlled, the probability of being determined increases. That is, in each of the first special figure display result determination table 130A and the second special figure display result determination table 130B, when the gaming state in the pachinko gaming machine 1 is in a probabilistic state, compared to when it is in a normal state or a short time state. Thus, the determination data is assigned to the determination result as to whether or not to control the jackpot gaming state so that the probability of being determined to control the jackpot gaming state increases.

  In the setting example of the first special figure display result determination table 130A, a predetermined range of determination values (a value in the range of “30000” to “30099”) is assigned to the special figure display result of “small hit”. On the other hand, in the setting example of the second special figure display result determination table 130B, the determination value is not assigned to the special figure display result of “small hit”. With such a setting, the variable display result is determined based on the fact that the first start condition for starting the special figure game using the first special figure by the first special symbol display device 4A is satisfied, The case where the variable display result is determined based on the fact that the second start condition for starting the special figure game using the second special figure by the second special symbol display device 4B is established. The ratio determined to be controlled in the small hit gaming state as “small hit” can be varied. In particular, in the special figure game using the second special figure, since it is not determined that the special figure display result is “small hit” and the game state is controlled to the small hit game state, for example, the short time state (low probability high base state) or short time In a game state where it is difficult for a game ball to enter the second start winning opening formed by the normally variable winning ball apparatus 6B, such as an accrual change state (high accuracy high base state), a small hit game state where it is difficult to obtain a prize ball By avoiding frequent occurrences, it is possible to prevent a decrease in gaming interests due to an extended game.

  In the second special figure display result determination table 130B, a predetermined range of determination values different from the settings in the first special figure display result determination table 130A are assigned to the special chart display result of “small hit”. Also good. For example, in the second special figure display result determination table 130B, a smaller determination value than the first special figure display result determination table 130A may be assigned to the “small hit” special figure display result. In this way, in the high base state such as the short-time state and the time-varying probability change state, the proportion determined to be controlled to the small hit gaming state is lower than in the low base state such as the normal state and the short-time probability change state. May be. Alternatively, regardless of which of the first start condition and the second start condition is satisfied, the special figure display result may be determined with reference to the common special figure display result determination table.

  FIG. 8 shows a configuration example of the jackpot type determination table 131 stored in the ROM 105. The jackpot type determination table 131 determines the jackpot type as one of a plurality of types based on the random number MR2 for determining the jackpot type when it is determined that the special figure display result is “big hit” and the game state is controlled to the jackpot game state. This is a table to be referred to. In the jackpot type determination table 131, the special symbol that is variably displayed (changed) in the special symbol game is the first special symbol (the special symbol game by the first special symbol display device 4A) or the second special symbol (second). Depending on whether it is a special symbol game by the special symbol display device 4B), the numerical value (determined value) compared with the random value MR2 for determining the jackpot type is “non-probable change” or “first probable change” to “third”. It is assigned to multiple types of jackpot types, such as “probability change” and “probability”.

  In the setting example of the big hit type determination table 131, the assignment of the decision value to the big hit type of “surprise” differs depending on whether the variation special chart is the first special figure or the second special figure. That is, when the fluctuation special chart is the first special figure, the predetermined value (the value in the range of “82” to “99”) is assigned to the big hit type of “surprise”, while the fluctuation special figure Is the second special figure, no decision value is assigned to the big hit type of “surprise”. With such a setting, the jackpot type is determined as one of a plurality of types based on the fact that the first start condition for starting the special figure game using the first special figure by the first special symbol display device 4A is satisfied. And determining the jackpot type as one of a plurality of types based on the fact that the second start condition for starting the special figure game using the second special figure by the second special symbol display device 4B is satisfied. Thus, the rate at which the jackpot type is determined to be “surprising” can be varied. In particular, in the special figure game using the second special figure, it is not determined that the big hit type is “surprise” and controlled to the two round big hit state. In a gaming state in which a game ball is likely to enter the second starting prize opening formed by the variable winning ball device 6B, avoiding frequent occurrence of a two round big hit state in which it is difficult to obtain a prize ball, Decline can be prevented.

  Even when the fluctuation special chart is the second special figure, a predetermined range of determined values different from the case where the fluctuation special figure is the first special figure may be assigned to the “surprise” jackpot type. Good. For example, when the fluctuation special chart is the second special figure, a smaller decision value may be assigned to the “surprise” jackpot type than when the fluctuation special chart is the first special figure. In this way, the high base state such as the time-short state or the time-varying probability variation state is set to have a lower ratio of the “surprise accuracy” jackpot type than the low-base state such as the normal state or the time variation probability variation state. May be. Alternatively, regardless of whether the fluctuation special chart is the first special chart or the second special chart, the jackpot type may be determined with reference to the common table data.

  FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a variation pattern of a decorative design. In this embodiment, among the cases where the variable display result is “losing”, the variable display mode of the decorative design is “non-reach” and “reach”, respectively. Among the cases where the display result is “big hit”, the big hit type is “non-probable change”, “first positive change” to “third positive change”, or “surprise”, and further variable display Corresponding to the case where the result is “small hit”, a plurality of variation patterns are prepared in advance. The variation pattern corresponding to the case where the variable display result is “losing” and the decorative symbol variable display mode is “non-reach” is called a non-reach variation pattern (also referred to as “non-reach loss variation pattern”) and is variable. The variation pattern corresponding to the case where the display result is “losing” and the decorative symbol variable display mode is “reach” is referred to as a reach variation pattern (also referred to as “reach loss variation pattern”). Further, the non-reach variation pattern and the reach variation pattern are included in the loss variation pattern corresponding to the case where the variable display result is “lost”. The variation pattern corresponding to the case where the variable display result is “big hit” or “small hit” is referred to as a hit variation pattern.

  The RAM 106 provided in the game control microcomputer 100 has a game control data holding area as shown in FIG. 10, for example, as an area for holding various data used for controlling the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1. 590 is provided. The game control data holding area 590 includes a first special figure storage unit 591A, a second special figure storage unit 591B, a game control flag setting unit 592, a game control timer setting unit 593, and a game control counter setting unit. 594 and a game control buffer setting unit 595.

  The first special figure storage unit 591A satisfies the first start condition in response to the occurrence of the start winning due to the game ball passing (entering) through the first start winning opening formed by the normal winning ball apparatus 6A. The holding data of the special figure game (the special figure game using the first special figure by the first special symbol display device 4A) in which the first start condition is not established is stored. As an example, the first special figure reservation storage unit 591A associates with the reservation number in the order of winning in the first start winning opening, and acquires (extracts) various kinds of information acquired (extracted) by the CPU 104 based on the establishment of the first start condition by the winning. Numerical data indicating a random number value is set as pending data, and stored until the stored number reaches a predetermined upper limit value (for example, “4”). In this embodiment, numerical data indicating the random number value MR1 for determining the special figure display result, numerical data indicating the random value MR2 for determining the jackpot type, numerical data indicating the random value MR3 for determining the variation pattern type, Is stored in the first special figure storage unit 591A as the storage data.

  The second special figure holding storage unit 591B satisfies the second start condition in response to the occurrence of the start winning due to the game ball passing (entering) the second starting winning opening formed by the normally variable winning ball apparatus 6B. However, the hold data of the special figure game (the special figure game using the second special figure by the second special symbol display device 4B) in which the second start condition is not established is stored. As an example, the second special figure holding storage unit 591B associates with the holding number in the order of winning in the second starting winning opening, and acquires (extracts) various kinds of information acquired (extracted) by the CPU 104 based on the establishment of the second starting condition by the winning. Numerical data indicating a random number value is set as pending data, and stored until the stored number reaches a predetermined upper limit value (for example, “4”). In this embodiment, numerical data indicating the random number value MR1 for determining the special figure display result, numerical data indicating the random value MR2 for determining the jackpot type, numerical data indicating the random value MR3 for determining the variation pattern type, Is stored in the second special figure holding storage unit 591B as holding data.

  The game control flag setting unit 152 is provided with a plurality of types of flags that can be updated in accordance with the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1. For example, the game control flag setting unit 152 stores data indicating a flag value and data indicating an on state or an off state for each of a plurality of types of flags. The game control timer setting unit 153 is provided with various timers used for controlling the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1. For example, the game control timer setting unit 153 stores data indicating timer values in each of a plurality of types of timers. The game control counter setting unit 154 is provided with a plurality of types of counters for counting the count values used for controlling the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1. For example, the game control counter setting unit 154 stores data indicating the count value in each of a plurality of types of counters. Here, the game control counter setting unit 154 may be provided with a random counter for the CPU 104 to count part or all of the game random numbers so as to be updateable by software.

  For example, in the random counter of the game control counter setting unit 154, numerical data indicating the random number values MR2 to MR5 is stored as random count values, and each random number is randomly or irregularly set according to the execution of software by the CPU 104. The numerical data indicating the numerical value is updated. The software executed by the CPU 104 to update the random count value may be for updating the random count value separately from the update operation of the numerical data in the random number circuit 103, or may be extracted from the random number circuit 103. The random count value may be updated by performing predetermined processing such as scramble processing or arithmetic processing on all or part of the numerical data.

  The game control buffer setting unit 155 is provided with various buffers that temporarily store data used for controlling the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1. For example, the game control buffer setting unit 155 stores data indicating buffer values in each of a plurality of types of buffers.

  FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram illustrating assignment of output ports (port outputs of the game control microcomputer 100) included in the external bus interface 109 provided in the game control microcomputer 100. As shown in FIG. 11, a connection signal as a payout control signal transmitted to the payout control board 15 is output from the output port 0 of the game control microcomputer 100. Further, a drive signal for the solenoid 82 provided in the special variable winning ball apparatus 7 that opens and closes the big winning opening by the big winning opening door, and an ordinary variable winning ball apparatus 6B that opens and closes the second starting winning opening by the movable blade piece. The drive signal for the solenoid 81 is also output from the output port 0.

  From the output port 0 of the game control microcomputer 100, a state-on-time signal is output to an external device (for example, a hall computer) via a predetermined terminal board (information terminal board). The on-time state signal is included in various information output signals related to control in the pachinko gaming machine 1, and when power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 1 is started, a predetermined initialization process is not executed. In addition, based on the fact that data indicating the probability variation state (high probability state) is stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 106 (for example, a backup area for storing the probability variation flag), the state output signal is output.

  From the output port 0 in the game control microcomputer 100, a payout condition establishment signal is output to an external device (for example, a hall computer) via a predetermined terminal board (information terminal board). The payout condition establishment signal is included in various information output signals related to control in the pachinko gaming machine 1, and a condition (payout condition) for paying out a predetermined number (for example, 10) prize balls as prizes in the pachinko gaming machine 1 ) Is a signal indicating that the payout condition is satisfied.

  Various signals and information such as a security signal, a time reduction signal, gaming machine specific information, a symbol determination signal, a second starting port signal, and a first starting port signal are output from the output port 1 in the gaming control microcomputer 100. The The security signal is a signal indicating the security state of the pachinko gaming machine 1. As an example, when it is determined that an abnormal winning to the second starting winning opening has occurred based on the detection result of the second starting opening switch 22B and the detection result of the winning confirmation switch 25, the security signal is displayed for a predetermined period ( (For example, for 4 minutes) is output to an external device such as a hall computer. By configuring in such a manner, it is possible to recognize that an illegal act that causes the second start winning opening to be recognized using radio waves or the like so as to be greater than the actual number of winnings, such as a hall computer. It can be recognized on the external device side.

  As another example, when the pachinko gaming machine 1 is powered on and the initialization process is executed, the security signal is output to an external device such as a hall computer for a predetermined period (for example, 30 seconds). By configuring as such, it is recognized that the initialization process has been executed at an unnatural timing (for example, even after all the gaming machine power reset operations have been completed when the amusement store is opened). By making it possible, the external device such as a hall computer can recognize the possibility that an unauthorized act of illegally resetting the power of the gaming machine and aiming for a big hit at the power reset timing is performed. it can.

  When an abnormal winning is detected, and an initialization process (for example, a process of clearing the stored contents of the RAM 106 based on an operation performed by the clear switch 501 when the power to the pachinko gaming machine 1 is turned on). A common security signal is output externally when executed. In this regard, the initialization process is usually performed only when the game machine power is reset when the amusement store is opened, so that the signal is output only once per day. It is not efficient and wasteful to provide the structure (connector, semiconductor relay, etc.). Therefore, in this embodiment, a signal line or circuit for external output is configured by outputting a common security signal when an abnormal winning is detected and when an initialization process is executed. The waste of elements is reduced. That is, it is possible to prevent an increase in the number of parts of a mechanism for outputting information to an external device such as a hall computer and complication of wiring work.

  The time reduction signal is turned on when the signal state (on / off) changes according to the gaming state in the pachinko gaming machine 1 and is a gaming state in which time reduction control is performed (time reduction state or time-variable probability changing state). Signal. The time reduction signal is a signal indicating that the time reduction control is performed in the pachinko gaming machine 1.

  The gaming machine specific information is information given individually in advance for each chip of the gaming control microcomputer 100 in the pachinko gaming machine 1 or for each pachinko gaming machine 1, for example, a manufacturer code, a chip individual number, and Contains model name code. The gaming machine specific information is externally output based on the establishment of any one of a plurality of predetermined different information output conditions, so that the gaming machine specific information is on the external device side such as a hall computer. What is necessary is just to make it possible to determine the legitimacy of. An information output condition for outputting game machine specific information to the outside may be satisfied when the power is turned on, a big hit, a door is opened, or the like. In addition, when it is determined that a predetermined abnormal winning has occurred, the information output condition may be satisfied and the gaming machine specific information may be externally output in accordance with the external output of the security signal.

  The symbol determination signal is a signal that is output externally to notify the number of special symbol fluctuations. The second start port signal is a signal output externally to notify the detection of a game ball that has passed (entered) the second start winning port formed by the normally variable winning ball apparatus 6B. The first start port signal is a signal output to the outside in order to notify the detection of the game ball that has passed (entered) the first start winning port formed by the normal winning ball device 6A.

  From the output port 2 in the game control microcomputer 100, various signals such as a firing position designation signal (right), a big winning opening open signal, a small hit middle signal, and a big hit middle signal are output. The firing position designation signal (right) changes its signal state (on / off) according to the gaming state in the pachinko gaming machine 1, and the optimal firing position (launch target position) of the game ball in the gaming area is the right game. This is a signal for designating the right position that is turned on when the region 2B. The launch position designation signal (right) is also simply referred to as “launch position designation signal”. The launch position designation signal is a signal indicating that a game ball as a game medium should be launched into the right game area 2B as a predetermined area.

  The signal indicating that the special winning prize opening is in progress changes depending on the operating state of the special variable winning ball apparatus 7 serving as a special electric accessory, and the special variable winning ball apparatus 7 is activated to cause a special prize opening. Is turned on when is open. The small hitting signal is a signal that is turned on when the gaming state in the pachinko gaming machine 1 is the small hitting gaming state. The big hit signal is a signal that is turned on when the gaming state in the pachinko gaming machine 1 is the big hit gaming state.

  Note that the logic (for example, 0 is on) opposite to the “logic” (for example, 1 is on) shown in FIG. 11 may be used. In particular, for the connection signal, the main board 11 and the payout control board. The “logic” is determined so that the payout control microcomputer 150 is always detected to be in an off state when the signal line to the terminal 15 is disconnected or when the cable is disconnected (including no cable connection). . Specifically, generally, when disconnection or disconnection of the cable occurs, a high level is detected on the signal receiving side, so the high level on the signal line between the main board 11 and the payout control board 15 is the game control means. The “logic” is determined to be in the off state at the output port at. Therefore, if necessary, an output buffer circuit for logically inverting the signal is provided outside the output port on the main board 11.

  Various signals and information (information output signals) from the output port 0 and the output port 1 in the game control microcomputer 100 to an external device (for example, a hall computer) via a predetermined terminal board (information terminal board) For example, output data of a first start port signal, a second start port signal, a symbol determination signal, gaming machine specific information, a security signal, an on-time state signal, and a payout condition establishment signal) are output.

  From the output port 1 and the output port 2 in the gaming control microcomputer 100, various signals (for example, a launch position designation signal, a big prize opening open signal, a small hit middle signal, a big hit middle signal, a time signal) which are test terminal output signals. Output data can be output. For example, the test terminal output signal may be generated as appropriate when the CPU 104 of the game control microcomputer 100 is performing game control or based on a test terminal output signal generation program.

  Note that the same signal may be output from a plurality of bits for different uses. For example, one bit at the output port may be output as a test terminal output signal, and the other bits may be output as an information output signal.

  In addition to the signals shown in FIG. 11, for example, a probability variation signal indicating that the gaming state in the pachinko gaming machine 1 is a probability variation state may be output. The time reduction signal and the probability change signal correspond to the first special symbol display device 4A, the second special symbol display device 4B, and the normal symbol display device 20, respectively, and the time reduction control and the probability change control for the variable display of the special symbol and the normal symbol. May be output as a plurality of signals individually indicating that.

  FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram illustrating assignment of input ports (port inputs of the game control microcomputer 100) included in the external bus interface 109 provided in the game control microcomputer 100. As shown in FIG. 12, detection signals from the winning confirmation switch 25, the general winning opening switch 24, and the count switch 23 are input to the input port 0 of the gaming control microcomputer 100. In addition to a payout detection signal and a door opening signal from the payout control board 15, a magnet sensor signal and a radio wave sensor signal are input to the input port 1. In the input port 2, a power-off signal from the power supply substrate 10, an operation detection signal (clear signal) of the clear switch 501, and detection signals from the gate switch 21, the first and second start port switches 22A and 22B Entered.

  The effect control ROM incorporated in or externally provided in the effect control microcomputer 120 mounted on the effect control board 12 shown in FIG. 2 is used for controlling the effect operation in addition to the effect control program. Various data tables are stored. For example, the effect control ROM includes a plurality of determination tables prepared for the CPU 120A to perform various determinations, determinations, and settings, table data constituting the determination table, pattern data constituting various effect control patterns, and the like. It is remembered.

  As an example, in the effect control ROM, the CPU 120A controls the effect operation by various effect devices (for example, the image display device 5, the speakers 8L and 8R, the game effect lamp 9, the decoration LED, the effect model, etc.). An effect control pattern table storing a plurality of types of effect control patterns to be used is stored. The effect control pattern is composed of data indicating the control contents corresponding to various effect operations executed in accordance with the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1. The effect control pattern table only needs to store, for example, an effect control pattern during special figure fluctuation and various effect control patterns.

  The special-control variation production control pattern corresponds to a plurality of types of variation patterns in the period from the start of the variation of the special symbol in the special-sign game until the finalized special symbol that is the special-sign display result is derived and displayed. It is composed of data indicating control contents of various effect operations such as a variable display operation of decorative symbols, an effect display operation in a reach effect, or various effect display operations not accompanied by a variable display of decorative symbols. The various effect control patterns are composed of data indicating the control contents corresponding to various effect operations executed in accordance with the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1.

The pachinko gaming machine 1 in this embodiment is different in the production mode by electric parts that are various production devices (for example, the image display device 5 and the speakers 8L and 8R, the game effect lamp 9, the decoration LED, the production model, etc.). It has multiple production modes. FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining a transition example of the effect mode. In the example shown in FIG. 13, four effect modes, mode A, mode B, mode C, and mode N, are provided. These production modes are based on any of the predetermined mode transition conditions such as when the big hit gaming state or the small hit gaming state is finished, when the variable display of decorative symbols is started, or when the time reduction control is finished. When established, it switches according to the current production mode, jackpot type, and the like. In addition, in order to enhance a production effect, production modes other than these may be provided.

  Mode N is also referred to as a normal mode. When no transition is made to any production mode, that is, the production mode such as after power-on is this mode N. As shown in FIG. 13, in any production mode, the variable display result is “big hit” and the big hit type is “non-probability change” or “first probability change”, and the probability change state (high probability state) after the end of the big hit gaming state. When it is not informed that the transition to (no probability change notification), the effect mode after the end of the big hit gaming state shifts to mode A. In any production mode, the variable display result is “big hit” and the big hit type is “second probability variation” or “third probability variation”, and the transition to the probability variation state (high probability state) is made after the jackpot gaming state ends. Is notified (there is a probability change notification), the effect mode after the end of the big hit gaming state shifts to mode B. In any of mode N, mode A, or mode C, if the variable display result is “big hit” and the big hit type is “surprise”, or if the variable display result is “small hit”, the two round big hit state The effect mode after the end of the small hit gaming state is shifted to mode C.

  In the mode A, the player can definitely recognize that the high-base state in which the time-shortening control is performed, and on the other hand, whether or not the high-accuracy state in which the probability-changing control is performed (the time-varying accuracy-changing state) is determined. It is a production mode that is difficult to recognize. Mode B is an effect mode in which a player can definitely recognize that the base state is a highly accurate and high-base state (a time-varying probability changing state). Mode C is a performance mode in which it is difficult to recognize whether or not it is a high-accuracy state in which probability variation control is performed (a time-variable probability variation state or a timeless certain variation state) after the end of the two-round big hit state or the small hit game state It is.

  When in mode A or mode B, the production mode shifts to mode N in response to the completion of the time reduction control. When in mode C, the production mode shifts to mode N in response to the determination that the predetermined mode shift end has been made. The mode transition end determination is, for example, that the elapsed time after the production mode has shifted to mode C has reached a predetermined time, that the variable display count after the production mode has shifted to mode C has reached a predetermined number of times, The mode transition is terminated based on the fact that a predetermined condition is established, such as a lottery result indicating that the mode transition end lottery is performed at a predetermined rate every time variable display is started Then, it is only necessary to determine that the production mode is returned to mode N.

  The transition mode of the production mode in the pachinko gaming machine 1 is not limited to the transition example shown in FIG. 13, and at least the variable display result is “big hit” and the big hit type is “surprise”, and the variable display result is “ A common performance mode regardless of whether the game is in a special game state, such as a probability change state in which probability change control is performed after the two round big hit state or the small hit game state is completed It is sufficient if it can be transferred to. In addition, among the cases where the variable display result is “big hit”, the 15 round big hit status is corresponding to the case where the big hit type is “non-probable change” and the big hit type is “first probability change”. After finishing, it is only necessary to be able to shift to the common production mode regardless of whether the time change accuracy state (high accuracy high base state) or the time reduction state (low accuracy high base state). By shifting to such a common performance mode, it is only necessary that the player can make a performance mode in which it is impossible or difficult for the player to recognize whether or not probability variation control such as so-called latent probability variation is being performed.

  The effect control ROM as shown in FIG. 14 corresponds to a plurality of effect modes such as mode A, mode B, mode C, and mode N in the effect control ROM incorporated in or externally provided in the effect control microcomputer 120. Table data constituting the pattern tables 250A to 250D is stored. In addition, the effect control ROM stores table data constituting an effect control pattern table 250E common to each effect mode. Data indicating the contents of various types of effect control during the period in which the game is controlled to the big hit game state or the small hit game state is stored in advance in the effect control pattern table 250E common to each effect mode as various effect control patterns. Just do it.

  In the production control pattern tables 250A to 250D, various production operations with different production modes are performed depending on whether the production mode in the pachinko gaming machine 1 is a plurality of modes A, mode B, mode C, or mode N. It is only necessary to store a plurality of types of data indicating the control contents as production control patterns. For example, each of the effect control pattern tables 250 </ b> A to 250 </ b> D only needs to store special-figure change effect control patterns corresponding to a plurality of types of change patterns.

  In each effect mode, for example, it is only necessary to be able to change an arbitrary effect mode such as a background image, a character image appearing during variable display, or a decorative motif, according to the effect mode. As an example, FIG. 15 shows a background image in each effect mode. FIG. 15A shows a background image in mode N. In mode N (normal mode), a background image is not displayed as shown in FIG. FIG. 15B shows a background image in mode A. In mode A, a background image of “sea” is displayed. FIG. 15C shows a background image in mode B. In mode B, a background image of “mountain” is displayed. FIG. 15D shows a background image in mode C. In mode C, a background image of “universe” is displayed. Thus, each effect mode is distinguished by the background image. In addition to this, each effect mode may be distinguished by displaying one or both of a decorative pattern and a character image corresponding to each effect mode. In addition, depending on each effect mode, the effect sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R during the variable display of the decorative symbols is varied, the lighting effect of the game effect lamp 9 and the decoration LED is varied, etc. Modes may be distinguished.

  FIG. 16A shows a configuration example of the effect control pattern. Each effect control pattern, such as a special control change effect control pattern and various effect control patterns, includes, for example, an effect control process timer determination value, display control data, sound control data, lamp control data, operation detection control data, and an end code. It is composed of control data for controlling various performance operations, and it is only necessary to set the contents of various performance controls, the timing of switching the performance control, and the like in time series. In addition, the effect control pattern may include, for example, movable member control data for designating the content of operation control in a movable member provided inside or outside the game area. The effect control process timer determination value is a value (determination value) to be compared with the value of the effect control process timer (effect control process timer value) provided in a predetermined area of the effect control RAM incorporated in the effect control microcomputer 120. ) And a determination value corresponding to the execution time (effect time) of each effect operation is set in advance. In place of the effect control process timer determination value, for example, a predetermined process is executed as a process for controlling the effect operation in the effect control microcomputer 120 when a predetermined effect control command is received from the main board 11. Data indicating the switching timing of effect control or the like may be set corresponding to predetermined control content or processing content.

  The display control data includes data indicating the display mode of the effect image in the display area of the image display device 5, such as data indicating the variation mode of each decorative pattern during variable display of the decorative pattern. That is, the display control data is data that designates the display operation of the effect image in the display area of the image display device 5. The voice control data includes data indicating the voice output mode from the speakers 8L and 8R, such as data indicating the output mode of sound effects in conjunction with the variable display operation of the decorative symbol during variable display of the decorative symbol, for example. Yes. That is, the audio control data is data that designates an audio output operation from the speakers 8L and 8R. The lamp control data includes data indicating the lighting operation mode of the light emitter, such as a game effect lamp 9 and a decoration LED. That is, the lamp control data is data for designating the lighting operation of the light emitter. The operation detection control data includes, for example, data indicating a period during which an operation on the operation unit such as the operation button 30 is effectively detected, control contents of the rendering operation when the operation is detected effectively, and the like. That is, the operation detection control data is data that designates an effect operation corresponding to an operation on the operation unit. Note that these control data do not have to be included in all the effect control patterns, but an effect control pattern including a part of the control data according to the contents of the effect operation by each effect control pattern. There may be.

  FIG. 16B is a diagram for explaining various rendering operations executed according to the contents of the rendering control pattern. In the effect control microcomputer 120, the CPU 120A determines the control content of the effect operation in accordance with various control data included in the effect control pattern. For example, when the effect control process timer value matches one of the effect control process timer determination values, the decorative design is displayed in a manner specified by the display control data associated with the effect control process timer determination value, and the character Control is performed to display an effect image such as an image or a background image in the display area of the image display device 5. In addition, control is performed to output sound from the speakers 8L and 8R in a manner specified by the sound control data, and control is performed to cause the light emitter to blink in a manner specified by the lamp control data, which is specified by the operation detection control data. Control for changing the rendering operation is performed based on the operation on the operation unit detected during the period. Note that dummy data (data not specifying control) may be set as data corresponding to a production component that does not become a control target even though it corresponds to the production control process timer determination value.

  The CPU 120A of the effect control microcomputer 120 sets the effect control pattern based on the variation pattern indicated in the variation pattern designation command, for example, when starting variable display of decorative symbols. Here, when setting the effect control pattern, the pattern data constituting the corresponding effect control pattern may be read from the effect control ROM and temporarily stored in a predetermined area of the effect control RAM. The storage address of the effect control ROM of the pattern data constituting the effect control pattern may be temporarily stored in a predetermined area of the effect control RAM, and the reading position of the stored data in the effect control ROM may be specified. After that, every time the production control process timer value is updated, it is determined whether or not it matches any of the production control process timer judgment values. If they match, the production operation according to the corresponding various control data Control. In this way, the CPU 120 </ b> A performs effects devices (image display device 5, speakers 8 </ b> L, 8 </ b> R, game effect lamp 9, etc.) according to the contents of process data # 1 to process data #n (n is an arbitrary integer) included in the effect control pattern. The control of the light emitter etc. is advanced. In each process data # 1 to process data #n, display control data # 1 to display control data #n and voice control data # 1 to voice control associated with production control process timer determination values # 1 to #n are provided. Data #n, lamp control data # 1 to lamp control data #n, and operation detection control data # 1 to operation detection control data #n indicate the control content of the rendering operation in the rendering device and specify the execution of the rendering control. Control execution data # 1 to production control execution data #n are configured.

  A command according to the effect control pattern set in this way is output from the effect control microcomputer 120 to the VDP 121, the sound control board 13, the lamp control board 14, or the like. In the VDP 121 that has received a command from the effect control microcomputer 120, the image data indicated by the command is read from the effect data memory 122 and temporarily stored in the VRAM. In the voice control board 13 that has received a command from the production control microcomputer 120, for example, the voice synthesis IC reads the voice data indicated by the command from the voice data ROM and temporarily stores it in the voice RAM or the like. Expand.

  FIG. 17 is an explanatory diagram illustrating assignment of output ports (port outputs of the payout control microcomputer 150) included in the external bus interface 219 provided in the payout control microcomputer 150. As shown in FIG. 17, the output port 0 of the payout control microcomputer 150 outputs a signal of each phase supplied to the payout motor 51 by the stepping motor. In addition, as a PRDY signal or EXS signal transmitted to a predetermined card unit, a pachinko gaming machine 1 is in a predetermined error state (such as a ball-out error state or a full tank error state), and a prize A prize ball signal indicating that a prize ball payout has been detected is also output from the output port 0.

  From the output port 1 of the payout control microcomputer 150, each segment output signal of the error display LED 74 by 7 segment LED is output. Also, a payout detection signal indicating that a predetermined number (for example, 10) of prize balls has been detected as a prize is output from the output port 1.

  FIG. 18 is an explanatory diagram illustrating assignment of input ports (port inputs of the payout control microcomputer 150) included in the external bus interface 219 provided in the payout control microcomputer 150. As shown in FIG. 18, the VL signal, the BRDY signal, and the BRQ signal from the card unit are input to the input port 0 of the payout control microcomputer 150. Further, a connection signal from the main board 11 and detection signals from the full tank switch 26, the ball break switch 27, and the dispensing motor position sensor 71 are also input to the input port 0. In addition, an operation signal from the error release switch 73 and a detection signal from the payout count switch 72 are input to the input port 1 of the payout control microcomputer 150.

  FIG. 19 is a block diagram showing various signals that can be output from the pachinko gaming machine 1. In this embodiment, an information output signal is sent from a game control microcomputer 100 mounted on the main board 11 to a predetermined external device (such as a hall computer) via a predetermined terminal board (information terminal board) or the like. Output externally. A part of the information output signal may be temporarily transmitted from the payout control microcomputer 150 mounted on the payout control board 15 to the main board 11 and then output to the outside. The information output signal includes a first start port signal, a second start port signal, a symbol confirmation signal, a gaming machine specific information, a security signal, a closing state signal, a payout condition establishment signal, a payout detection signal, and a gaming machine error state signal. include. The information output signal is not limited to these signals, and may include a predetermined signal for external output to an external device such as a door opening signal. Such an information output signal may be a signal used for managing an operation state in the pachinko gaming machine 1 in an external device such as a hall computer.

  Further, in the game control microcomputer 100 mounted on the main board 11, processing for outputting the test terminal output signal to the outside is executed. Note that the payout control microcomputer 150 mounted on the payout control board 15 may also execute processing for outputting a part of the test terminal output signal to the outside. The test terminal output signal includes a launch position designation signal, a big prize opening open signal, a small hit middle signal, a big hit middle signal, and a short time signal. Such a test terminal output signal may be a signal that enables inspection of the operation in the pachinko gaming machine 1 when an external device such as a test device is connected.

  The same signal may be included in both the test terminal output signal and the information output signal. For example, the time reduction signal may be included in both the test terminal output signal and the information output signal. Further, a predetermined signal such as a probability variation signal not shown in FIG. 19 may be included in the test terminal output signal and the information output signal.

  The main board 11 has a wiring pattern capable of transmitting a test terminal output signal including a launch position designation signal to an external device. On this wiring pattern, in order to mount the connection component used for connection with the test apparatus used as the external device with respect to the pachinko gaming machine 1, a connection component mounting portion may be provided. The connecting parts are mounted only at the time of testing, and may be not mounted at the time of normal use other than during testing.

  As an example, a test signal output circuit including a test signal terminal for externally outputting a test terminal output signal may be mounted on the main board 11. The test signal terminal of the test signal output circuit may be configured by a signal pin that can be connected to a probe from a test device that is an external device and a connector that can be connected to a cable from the test device. The test signal output circuit may be mounted on the main board 11, but may be configured as a relay board that can be detached from the main board 11 in order to reduce the cost during mass production. When a connector is used, a connector mounting wiring pattern may be prepared on the main board 11 and the connector may be mounted only during a test. In addition, signal pins and connectors may be sealed (sealed), removed, not mounted or destroyed during normal use other than during testing so that fraud based on the external output of the test terminal output signal can be prevented.

  However, even during normal use other than during testing, the game control microcomputer 100 mounted on the main board 11 only needs to execute processing for outputting a test terminal output signal to the outside. For example, as part of the process for performing game control and part of the process for externally outputting the information output signal Processing for enabling the test terminal output signal to be output externally may be performed.

  The processing for externally outputting the test terminal output signal is not limited to the processing executed in the game control microcomputer 100, and based on the processing content in the game control microcomputer 100, the test terminal output signal for external output. A signal processing module (for example, a profiler module) that performs processing may be configured to be detachable from the main board 11 or the like.

  Next, the operation of the pachinko gaming machine 1 in this embodiment will be described. In the main board 11, when the power supply from the power supply board 10 is started and the game control microcomputer 100 is activated, the game control as shown in the flowchart of FIG. 20 is performed after the CPU 104 executes a predetermined security check process. Execute main processing.

  When the game control main process shown in FIG. 20 is started, the CPU 104 first sets the interruption prohibition (step S1). Next, an interrupt mode for maskable interrupts is set (step S2), and a stack pointer designation address is set for the stack pointer (step S3). In step S2, the address synthesized from the value (1 byte) of the specific register (I register) of the gaming control microcomputer 100 and the interrupt vector (1 byte: least significant bit 0) output from the built-in device is Set to the mode indicating the interrupt address. When a maskable interrupt occurs, the CPU 104 automatically sets the interrupt disabled state and saves the contents of the program counter in the stack.

  Next, the CPU 104 starts outputting a connection signal to the payout control microcomputer 150 (step S4). When the CPU 104 starts outputting the connection signal in step S4, the CPU 104 sends a connection signal to the payout control microcomputer 150 unless the power supply of the gaming machine is stopped or output is impossible due to some communication error. Output continuously.

  Subsequently, the built-in device register is set (initialized) (step S5). By the processing in step S5, settings (initialization) of the reset / interrupt controller 102, the timer circuit 107, and the like, which are built-in devices (built-in peripheral circuits) of the game control microcomputer 100, are performed. Thereafter, the CPU 104 sets the RAM 106 in an accessible state (step S6), and proceeds to a clear signal check process.

  When the RAM 106 is set in an accessible state in step S6, a predetermined signal output timer may be cleared and the timer value may be initialized to “0”. As an example, a condition satisfaction signal output timer provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 106 such as the game control timer setting unit 593 is cleared, and the timer value is initialized to “0”. The condition satisfaction signal output timer measures the output time of a payout condition satisfaction signal indicating that a predetermined payout condition is satisfied when the cumulative number of prize balls reaches a predetermined number (for example, “10”) or more. Used. By clearing the condition establishment signal output timer when the power is turned on in the pachinko gaming machine 1, the payout condition establishment signal that was being output immediately before the power is turned off is not continuously output after the power is turned on again. It is possible to prevent the payout condition satisfaction signal based on the fact that the payout condition is satisfied once being divided and output externally twice before and after the power is shut off.

  Software delay processing for delaying the start timing of the game device control processing (game control processing) for controlling the progress of the game by software may be executed. By such software delay processing, the start timing of the game control processing can be delayed as compared with the case where the software delay processing is not executed. When the delay process is executed, a situation occurs in which the microcomputer of the other control board cannot receive the command transmitted from the game control board (main board 11) to the other control board (for example, the payout control board 15). Can be prevented.

  In the clear signal check process, the CPU 104 checks whether or not the clear signal (operation detection signal) in the on state is transmitted from the clear switch 501, that is, whether or not the clear switch 501 is turned on (step S <b> 7). Note that the CPU 104 may confirm the state of the clear signal (on / off) only once via the input port 2, but may confirm the state of the clear signal multiple times. For example, if it is confirmed that the state of the clear signal is an off state, a delay time of a predetermined time (for example, 0.1 seconds) is set, and then the state of the clear signal is reconfirmed. If it is confirmed that the clear signal is in the on state at that time, it is determined that the clear signal is in the on state. Further, at this time, if it is confirmed that the state of the clear signal is the off state, after a delay time of a predetermined time, the state of the clear signal may be confirmed again. Here, the number of reconfirmations is not limited to once or twice, but may be three or more times. It is also possible to check twice and check again when the check results do not match.

  If the clear switch 501 is not turned on in step S7, data protection processing of the backup RAM area (for example, power supply stop processing such as addition of parity data) is performed when power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 1 is stopped. It is confirmed whether or not (step S8). In this embodiment, when power supply is stopped, a process for protecting data in the backup RAM area is performed. When it is confirmed that such power supply stop processing has been performed, the CPU 104 determines that the power supply stop processing has been performed, that is, the control state at the time of power supply stop is stored. When it is confirmed that the power supply stop process is not being performed, the CPU 104 executes an initialization process.

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

  If it is determined that the control state at the time when the power supply is stopped is stored, the CPU 104 performs data check (parity check in this example) of the backup RAM area (step S9). In this embodiment, clear data (00) is set in the checksum data area, and the checksum calculation start address is set in the pointer. Also, the number of checksum calculations corresponding to the number of data to be checksum is set. Then, the exclusive OR of the contents of the checksum data area and the contents of the RAM area pointed to by the pointer is calculated. The calculation result is stored in the checksum data area, the pointer value is incremented by 1, and the checksum calculation count value is decremented by 1. The above processing is repeated until the value of the checksum calculation count becomes zero. When the value of the checksum calculation count becomes 0, the CPU 104 inverts the value of each bit of the contents of the checksum data area and sets the inverted data as the checksum.

  In the power supply stop process, a checksum is calculated by the same process as described above, and the checksum is stored in the backup RAM area. In step S9, the calculated checksum is compared with the stored checksum. When the power supply is stopped after an unexpected power failure or the like, the data in the backup RAM area should be saved, so the check result (comparison result) is normal (matched). That the check result is not normal means that the data in the backup RAM area may be different from the data when the power supply is stopped. In such a case, since the internal state cannot be returned to the state when the power supply is stopped, the initialization process (the processes of steps S10 and S11) executed at the time of power-on not at the time of recovery from the stop of the power supply is performed. Run.

  If the check result is normal, the CPU 104 sets the setting at the time of power interruption recovery in order to return the internal state of the game control means and the control state of the electric parts control means such as the effect control means to the state when the power supply is stopped. This is performed (step S91). Specifically, the start address of the backup setting table stored in the ROM 105 is set as a pointer, and the contents of the backup setting table are sequentially set in the work area (area in the RAM 106). 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, the saved contents of the work area that should not be initialized remain. The parts that should not be initialized include, for example, data indicating the gaming state before the power supply is stopped (special symbol process flag, etc.), the area where the output state of the output port is saved (output port buffer), unpaid prize balls This is the part where data indicating the number is set.

  Further, the CPU 104 sets transmission of a command corresponding to the restoration of power interruption by setting the head address of the backup command transmission table stored in the ROM 105 as a pointer. After this transmission setting is made, a backup command is transmitted after serial communication circuit setting processing in step S15a described later is performed.

  After the setting at the time of restoration of power interruption is thus performed in step S91, whether or not data indicating that the gaming state when the power supply of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is stopped (at the time of power interruption) is a probable change state is stored. Is determined (step S92). That is, when the power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 1 is started, the clear switch 501 is off and the initialization process is not executed. It is determined whether or not data indicating that the gaming state in 1 is a probability variation state (high probability state) as a special gaming state is stored.

  As an example, stored data indicating the state (on / off) of the probability change flag is checked in the backup area of the RAM 106. At this time, it may be determined whether or not data indicating the special gaming state is stored in correspondence with whether or not the probability variation flag is ON. In this embodiment, since the entire RAM 106 is backed up, the content of the probability variation flag is stored for a predetermined period after the power supply is stopped, regardless of the area in the RAM 106. Will be.

  It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to determining whether or not data indicating the special gaming state is stored in correspondence with whether or not the probability variation flag is ON. For example, the stored data may be read from a predetermined storage area separately from the probability change flag. More specifically, based on the fact that the power-off signal is output when the power-off process (see step S20 in FIG. 21) is executed, the data indicating the state of the probability change flag is stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 106 ( This data is stored for a predetermined period even if the power supply is stopped. In this case, by the process of step S91, the probability variation flag corresponding to the stored data in the predetermined area of the RAM 106 may be set to restore the gaming state when the power supply is stopped (when power is interrupted). . Further, as the special game state, it may be determined whether or not data indicating not only the probability variation state but also the short time state is stored. For example, the state of the time reduction flag stored in the backup area of the RAM 106 is checked, and it is determined whether data indicating the special gaming state is stored according to whether the time reduction flag is on. May be.

  When there is a probability change memory at the time of power interruption (or memory of a special gaming state including a time reduction state), the output of the on-time state signal is designated (step S93). For example, the CPU 104 may designate the output of the on-time state signal by holding the state of the probability change flag stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 106 as it is. After the output state signal is designated, the processes at steps S131 to S136 and S147 (see FIG. 28) described later are executed, so that the input state signal is externally transmitted from the pachinko gaming machine 1 to the external device. Will be output. It should be noted that the output of the on-state signal is started after the information output process (see step S28 in FIG. 21) based on the occurrence of the timer interrupt after the output on the on-state signal is designated in step S93. I can't. For example, as the processing of step S93, after the information buffer input state signal output bit position (bit 3 of output port 0 in the example shown in FIG. 11) is set, the information buffer is set to the output value and the output value is set. May be output to the output port 0 to start external output of the on-state signal.

  In this embodiment, when the power of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is turned on, the output of the on-time state signal is designated by holding the state of the probability variation flag as it is. That is, the state (ON / OFF) of the probability change flag indicates whether or not the game state in the pachinko gaming machine 1 is a probability change state, and specifies whether to output an on-time state signal when the power is turned on. Will show. In this way, by sharing the data indicating the state of the probability change flag corresponding to whether or not the gaming state is the probability change state with the data for specifying the output whether or not to output the state signal at the time of input, It is not necessary to prepare dedicated data for outputting the on-state signal externally, and an increase in the data capacity stored in the RAM 106 can be prevented.

  The on-state signal output may be designated by setting an on-state signal output designation flag, which is provided separately from the probability variation flag, to an on state. The on-state signal output designation flag is turned on when the pachinko gaming machine 1 is turned on based on the fact that the initialization process is not executed when the pachinko machine 1 is turned on and is in a special game state such as a probability change state. It only needs to indicate the output designation of the hour state signal.

  In the initialization process, the CPU 104 first performs a RAM clear process (step S10). Note that the predetermined data may be left as it is without initializing the entire area of the RAM 106. Subsequently, initial setting of the work area is performed (step S11). For example, the CPU 104 sets the start address of the initialization setting table stored in the ROM 105 as a pointer, and sequentially sets the contents of the initialization setting table in the work area.

  By the processing in step S11, for example, a normal symbol determination random number counter, a normal symbol determination buffer, a special symbol buffer, a special symbol process flag, a winning ball flag, a ball-out flag, and the like are selectively processed according to the control state. An initial value is set in the flag for this.

  Further, the CPU 104 performs transmission setting for the initialization command (step S12). For example, the start address of the initialization command transmission table stored in the ROM 105 is set as a pointer, and an initialization command for initializing the sub board according to the contents is transmitted to the sub board. As an initialization command, a command indicating an initial symbol displayed on the image display device 5, an initialization command to the payout control board 15, or the like can be used. After setting in step S13, an initialization command is transmitted after serial communication circuit setting in step S15a described later is performed.

  Further, the CPU 104 sets a predetermined security signal output time (30 seconds in this example) corresponding to the initialization process (step S13). For example, a timer initial value corresponding to the security signal output time is set in a security signal information timer provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 106. The security signal information timer is a timer for measuring the ON time of a security signal output externally. In this embodiment, when a predetermined time is set in the security signal information timer in step S13, an information output process (see S28 in FIG. 21), which will be described later, is executed so that the gaming machine is turned on. When the initialization process is executed, a security signal is externally output for a predetermined time (in this example, 30 seconds).

  In response to the start of power supply (power-on) in the pachinko gaming machine 1, the CPU 104 performs setting for outputting the gaming machine specific information externally (step S14). As settings for externally outputting gaming machine specific information, for example, a specific information output request flag for requesting external output of gaming machine specific information is set, and a reading start address of gaming machine specific information is set in a specific information read pointer To do.

  Further, the CPU 104 executes a random number circuit setting process for initially setting the random number circuit 103 (step S15). In this case, the CPU 104 performs setting according to a predetermined random number circuit setting program to make the random number circuit 103 update the random number value.

  Subsequently, the CPU 104 initializes the serial communication circuit 108 (step S15a). In this case, the CPU 104 sets data stored in a predetermined area of the ROM 105 in the serial communication circuit 108 in accordance with the serial communication circuit setting program, thereby causing the serial communication circuit 108 to serially communicate with the payout control microcomputer 150. Set up.

  When the serial communication circuit 108 is initialized, the CPU 104 initializes the priority of interrupt processing to be executed in response to the interrupt request from the serial communication circuit 108 (step S15b). In this case, the CPU 104 initializes the priority of interrupt processing by executing processing according to a predetermined interrupt priority setting program.

  For example, the CPU 104 initializes the priority of each interrupt process according to a predetermined interrupt process priority table including the default priority of each interrupt process. In this embodiment, the CPU 104 performs initialization according to the interrupt processing priority table so as to preferentially execute an interrupt process that causes the occurrence of a communication error in the serial communication circuit 108 as the cause of the interrupt. In this case, for example, the CPU 104 sets an interrupt priority execution flag at the time of communication error indicating that priority is given to interrupt processing whose cause is an interrupt.

  In this embodiment, when a timer interrupt and an interrupt request from the serial communication circuit 108 are generated at the same time, the CPU 104 preferentially performs an interrupt process by the timer interrupt.

  In addition, the default priority of each interrupt process can be changed by the user. For example, the gaming control microcomputer 100 stores designation information for designating an interrupt process set by a user (for example, a game machine manufacturer) in a predetermined storage area of the ROM 105 in advance. Then, the CPU 104 sets the priority of interrupt processing according to the designation information stored in a predetermined storage area of the ROM 105.

  In addition to steps S15 to S15b, a part of the setting process of the random number circuit 103 and the serial communication circuit 108 is also executed in the process of step S5. For example, in step S5, an initial value is set in the baud rate register, communication setting register, interrupt control register, and status register of the serial communication circuit 108 as the built-in device register.

  Then, the CPU 104 performs timer interrupt setting so that a timer interrupt is periodically taken every predetermined time (for example, 4 milliseconds) (step S16). When the timer interrupt setting is completed, the CPU 104 first disables the interrupt (step S17), executes the initial value random number update process (step S18a) and the display random number update process (step S18b), The interrupt is permitted again (step S19). That is, the CPU 104 sets the interrupt disabled state when the initial value random number update process and the display random number update process are executed, and interrupts enable state when the initial value random number update process and the display random number update process are finished. To.

  When the interrupt-permitted state is set in step S19, the timer interrupt or interrupt request from the serial communication circuit 108 is permitted until the next step S17 is executed and the interrupt-prohibited state is set. . If a timer interrupt occurs while the interrupt permission state is set, the CPU 104 of the game control microcomputer 100 executes a timer interrupt process to be described later. In this embodiment, priority is given to the interrupt process before the timer interrupt or the interrupt request is set to be permitted by executing step S15b before the loop process from step S17 to step S19. Processing for setting or changing the order is performed.

  When the power of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is turned on, the initialization process is not executed in the game control main process executed by the CPU 104 based on the user program stored in the program data area of the ROM 105 provided in the game control microcomputer 100. In addition, based on the fact that the data indicating that the gaming state is the special gaming state is stored, the input state signal is designated in step S93. That is, the external output of the input state signal is performed based on the user program. Note that the external output of the on-state signal is not limited to that performed based on the user program. For example, the external output of the power-on state signal when the power is turned on may be performed by hardware. Alternatively, if the security check program is executed before executing the user program read from the ROM 105 when the power is turned on, the output setting of the on-state signal is performed in the processing executed by the CPU 104 based on the security check program. And information buffer setting may be performed. That is, the external output of the input state signal may be performed based on a system program different from the user program. In this case, the determination as to whether or not data indicating the special gaming state is stored may be performed prior to the determination as to whether or not the clear switch 501 is on. Even with such a configuration, it is possible to recognize that the pachinko gaming machine 1 to which the on-time state signal is output externally stores data indicating that it is in a special gaming state when the power is turned on. By operating the clear switch 501 or the like by the site manager, the stored contents of the pachinko gaming machine 1 can be surely initialized (cleared) by executing the initialization process.

  In this embodiment, when a predetermined operation (for example, pressing operation) of the clear switch 501 is performed when power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 1 is started (step S7; Yes), step S10, The initialization process of S11 is executed. In this case, the security signal output time is set in step S13, so that the security signal in the on state is output to the outside for a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds). On the other hand, when power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 1 is started, based on the fact that the predetermined operation of the clear switch 501 is not performed (step S7; No), initialization of steps S10 and S11 If the process is not executed, the power failure recovery setting is performed (step S91), and it is determined whether data indicating a special game state such as a probability change state is stored (step S92). . When such data is stored (step S92; Yes), the on-state signal at the time of on-state is externally output based on the output designation in step S93.

  Next, timer interrupt processing in the game control microcomputer 100 will be described. FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing a game control timer interrupt process executed based on a timer interrupt generated every predetermined time (for example, 4 milliseconds) in the game control microcomputer 100. When a timer interrupt occurs during execution of the game control main process, specifically, during a period when interrupts are permitted during execution of the loop process of steps S17 to S19, the CPU 104 of the game control microcomputer 100 is executed. Executes a game control timer interrupt process activated in response to the occurrence of a timer interrupt. In the game control timer interrupt process, the CPU 104 first executes a power-off process (power-off detection process) for detecting whether or not a power-off signal is output (whether the power-off signal is turned on) (step S20). ). Then, the CPU 104 inputs detection signals of switches such as the gate switch 21, the first and second start opening switches 22 </ b> A and 22 </ b> B, the count switch 23, the general winning opening switch 24, and the winning confirmation switch 25 through the switch circuit 114. Then, the input of each switch is detected (switch processing: step S21). Specifically, if the state of the input port for inputting the detection signal of each switch is ON, the value of the switch timer provided corresponding to each switch is incremented by one.

  Subsequently, the CPU 104 executes a display control process for performing display control of the first and second special symbol display devices 4A and 4B, the normal symbol display device 20 and the like (step S22). Thereafter, by executing predetermined main-side error processing, abnormality diagnosis of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is performed, and if necessary, warning can be generated according to the diagnosis result (step S23). Also, a game random number update process is executed (step S24).

  After the game random number update process is executed, a special symbol process process is executed (step S25). In the special symbol process, the value of the special symbol process flag provided in the game control flag setting unit 592 is updated according to the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1, and the first special symbol display device 4A or the second special symbol is processed. Various processes are selected and executed in order to perform control of the display operation in the display device 4B and setting of opening / closing operation of the special winning opening in the special variable winning ball device 7 in a predetermined procedure.

  Following the special symbol process, a normal symbol process is executed (step S26). The CPU 104 controls the display operation (for example, turning on / off the segment LED, etc.) on the normal symbol display 20 by executing the normal symbol process, so that the variable display of the normal symbol and the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B are movable. Enables setting of the tilting movement of the blade. After executing the normal symbol process, the CPU 104 transmits a control command from the main board 11 to a sub-side control board such as the effect control board 12 or the payout control board 15 or is transmitted from the payout control board 15. Command control processing for receiving a control command is executed (step S27).

  After executing the command control process, the CPU 104 executes a process for outputting an information output signal to an external device such as a hall computer as an information output process (step S28). In addition, the CPU 104 executes a process of transmitting / receiving (input / output) signals to / from the payout control microcomputer 150 via the serial communication circuit 108 and, when a winning occurs, sets the number of winning balls. Sphere processing is executed (step S29).

  Subsequent to the winning ball process, the CPU 104 executes a process for externally outputting a test signal serving as a test terminal output signal as a test terminal process (step S30), and then ends the game control timer interrupt process. . By executing the test terminal process, the control state of the pachinko gaming machine 1 can be confirmed by a test device externally connected to the pachinko gaming machine 1.

  FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing an example of processing executed in step S25 of FIG. 21 as special symbol process processing. In this special symbol process, the CPU 104 first executes a start winning determination process (step S101). FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing an example of the start winning determination process executed in step S101.

  When the start winning determination process is started, the CPU 104 first starts the first start opening based on the detection signal from the first start opening switch 22A provided corresponding to the first start winning opening formed by the normal winning ball apparatus 6A. It is determined whether or not the switch 22A is on (step S201). At this time, if the first start port switch 22A is on (step S201; Yes), the first special figure holding memory number that is the holding memory number of the special figure game using the first special figure is a predetermined upper limit value. It is determined whether or not (for example, “4”) (step S202). The CPU 104 only needs to be able to identify the first special figure reserved memory number by reading the first reserved memory number count value, which is the stored value of the first reserved memory number counter provided in the game control counter setting unit 594, for example. When the number of first special figure reservation storage is not the upper limit value in step S202 (step S202; No), for example, the stored value of the start port buffer provided in the game control buffer setting unit 595 is set to “1” ( Step S203).

  When the first start-up switch 22A is OFF in step S201 (step S201; No), or when the first special figure reservation storage number reaches the upper limit value in step S202 (step S202; Yes), it is normal. It is determined whether or not the second start port switch 22B is on based on a detection signal from the second start port switch 22B provided corresponding to the second start winning port formed by the variable winning ball apparatus 6B ( Step S204). At this time, if the second start port switch 22B is ON (step S204; Yes), the second special figure holding memory number that is the holding memory number of the special figure game using the second special figure is a predetermined upper limit value. It is determined whether or not (for example, “4”) (step S205). For example, the CPU 104 only needs to be able to identify the second special figure reserved memory number by reading the second reserved memory number count value that is the stored value of the second reserved memory number counter provided in the game control counter setting unit 594. When the second special figure holding storage number is not the upper limit value in step S205 (step S205; No), for example, the stored value of the start port buffer provided in the game control buffer setting unit 595 is set to “2” ( Step S206).

  After either of the processes of steps S203 and S206 is executed, the pending storage number count value is updated by 1 according to the start port buffer value that is the stored value of the start port buffer (step S207). For example, when the starting port buffer value is “1”, the first reserved memory number count value is incremented by 1, while when the starting port buffer value is “2”, the second reserved memory number count value is incremented by one. Thus, the first reserved memory number count value is 1 when the game ball passes (enters) the first start winning opening and the first start condition corresponding to the special figure game using the first special figure is satisfied. Updated to increase. Further, the second reserved memory number count value is 1 when the game ball passes (enters) the second start winning opening and the second start condition corresponding to the special figure game using the second special figure is satisfied. Updated to increase. At this time, for example, the total reserved memory number count value, which is the stored value of the total reserved memory number counter provided in the game control counter setting unit 594, is updated so as to add 1 (step S208).

  After executing the processing of step S208, the CPU 104 determines the random number MR1 for determining the special figure display result and the jackpot type from the numerical data updated by the random counter of the random number circuit 103 and the game control counter setting unit 594. The numerical data indicating the random number value MR2 and the random value MR3 for determining the variation pattern type are extracted (step S209). The numerical data indicating each random value extracted in this way is stored as reserved data by being set at the head of the empty entry in the special figure storage unit corresponding to the start port buffer value (step S210). For example, when the start port buffer value is “1”, the hold data is set in the first special figure hold storage unit 591A, while when the start port buffer value is “2”, the hold data is held in the second special figure hold. It is set in the storage unit 591B.

  Subsequent to the process of step S210, transmission setting of a start port winning designation command corresponding to the start port buffer value is performed (step S211). For example, when the starting port buffer value is “1”, the storage address of the first starting port winning designation command table in the ROM 105 is stored in the buffer area designated by the transmission command pointer in the transmission command buffer. 12 is set to transmit a first start opening winning designation command. On the other hand, when the starting port buffer value is “2”, the storage address of the second starting port winning designation command table in the ROM 105 is stored in the buffer area of the transmission command buffer. Setting for transmitting the second start opening winning designation command is performed. Further, for example, by storing the storage address of the reserved storage number notification command table in the ROM 105 in the buffer area designated by the transmission command pointer in the transmission command buffer, the reserved storage number notification command is transmitted to the effect control board 12. For this purpose (step S212). The start opening prize designation command and the reserved memory number notification command set in this way are produced from the main board 11 by executing the command control process of step S27 shown in FIG. 21 after the special symbol process process is completed, for example. It is transmitted to the control board 12.

  After executing the process of step S212, it is determined whether the start port buffer value is “1” or “2” (step S213). At this time, if the start port buffer value is “1” (step S213; “1”), the start port buffer is cleared and the stored value is initialized to “0” (step S214), and then step S204. Proceed to the process. On the other hand, when the starting port buffer value is “2” (step S213; “2”), the starting port buffer is cleared and its stored value is initialized to “0” (step S215). The start winning determination process is terminated.

  In this embodiment, when both of the first start port switch 22A and the second start port switch 22B detect the start winning of a game ball that is effective at the same time, they are executed within a predetermined time (for example, within 4 milliseconds). By this process (timer interrupt process), a process based on the fact that both of the switches have detected a valid start winning game ball is executed. That is, when the first start port switch 22A is on in step S201, the processing in steps S202 and S203 is performed, and then the processing in steps S207 to S212 is performed, and then the start port buffer value is determined in step S213. In response to “1”, the process of step S214 is executed, and then the process proceeds to step S204. Then, when the second start port switch 22B is on in step S204, the processing of steps S205 to S212 is executed, and then in step S213, the start port buffer value is “2”. After performing the process of S215, the start winning determination process is terminated. Thereby, even when both the first start port switch 22A and the second start port switch 22B detect the start winning of the game balls that are effective at the same time, the processing based on the detection of both effective start winnings can be completed reliably.

  After executing the start winning determination process in step S101 shown in FIG. 22, the CPU 104 performs one of the processes in steps S110 to S120 according to the value of the special figure process flag provided in the game control flag setting unit 592. Select and execute.

  The special symbol normal process in step S110 is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is “0”. In this special symbol normal process, it is determined whether or not the special symbol game is started by the first special symbol display device 4A or the second special symbol display device 4B. In the special symbol normal process, whether or not the variable symbol display result of the special symbol or the decorative symbol is set to “big hit” or “small hit” based on the numerical data indicating the random value MR1 for determining the special symbol display result. It is determined (predetermined) before the variable display result is derived and displayed. Further, in the special symbol normal process, in response to the variable display result of the special symbol in the special symbol game, the confirmed special symbol (big hit symbol, the special symbol game by the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B) Either a small hit symbol or a lost symbol) is set.

  The variation pattern setting process in step S111 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is “1”. This variation pattern setting process includes a process for determining the variation pattern type as one of a plurality of types based on the result of determining whether the variable display result is “big hit” or “small hit”. Corresponding to the determination result of the pattern type, processing for determining one of a plurality of types of variation patterns is included.

  The special symbol variation process in step S112 is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is “2”. This special symbol variation process includes a process for setting the special symbol to be varied in the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B, and an elapsed time after the special symbol starts to vary. It includes processing to measure For example, every time the special symbol variation process of step S112 is executed, the special diagram variation timer value, which is a stored value in the special diagram variation timer provided in the game control timer setting unit 593, is subtracted or incremented by one. Regardless of whether the game is a special game using the first special graphic by the first special symbol display device 4A or a special game using the second special graphic by the second special symbol display device 4B, The elapsed time is measured. Further, it is also determined whether or not the measured elapsed time has reached a special figure fluctuation time corresponding to the fluctuation pattern. As described above, the special symbol variation process in step S112 is performed by the first special symbol display device 4A using the first special symbol in the special symbol game or the second special symbol display device 4B. It suffices if it is a process for controlling the variation of the special symbol in the special figure game using the game by a common processing routine. When the elapsed time since the start of the special symbol variation reaches the special symbol variation time, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to “3”.

  The special symbol stop process in step S113 is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is “3”. In this special symbol stop process, the first special symbol display device 4A or the second special symbol display device 4B stops the change of the special symbol, and the fixed special symbol which is the variable symbol display result is stopped and displayed. A process for setting is included. Then, it is determined whether or not the big hit flag or the small hit flag provided in the game control flag setting unit 592 is on. If the big hit flag is on, the special process flag value is set to “ Update to 4 ". When the small hit flag is on, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “8”. Further, when both the big hit flag and the small hit flag are OFF, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “0”.

  The big hit release pre-processing in step S114 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is “4”. The pre-opening process for the big hit is based on the fact that the variable display result is “big hit” and the like, and the execution of the round is started in the big hit gaming state, and the big winning opening is provided by the big winning opening door provided in the special variable winning ball apparatus 7. Includes a process for making a setting for setting to open state (first state). At this time, for example, the upper limit of the period in which the big winning opening is opened is set in accordance with whether the big hit type is “non-probability variation”, “first probability variation” to “third probability variation”, or “surprising probability”. You may make it do. As an example, when the big hit type is controlled to 15 round big hit state corresponding to any of “non-probable change” or “first positive change” to “third positive change”, the big winning opening is opened. The upper limit of the period to be set is set to “29 seconds”, and the number of times of opening of the big winning opening, which is the number of round executions, is set to “15 times”. On the other hand, when the big hit type is controlled to be “surprise” and is controlled to the two round big hit state, the upper limit of the period during which the big winning opening is opened is set to “0.5 seconds”. At the same time, the number of times of opening of the big winning opening, which is the number of executions of the round, is set to “2 times”.

  The big hit release processing in step S115 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is "5". In the big hit opening process, the winning prize opening is based on the process of measuring the elapsed time since the big winning opening is in the open state, the measured elapsed time, the number of game balls detected by the count switch 23, and the like. The process etc. which determine whether it became the timing which returns to a closed state (2nd state) from an open state are included. Then, when returning the big prize opening to the closed state, a process for stopping the supply of the drive signal to the solenoid 82 for the big prize opening door may be executed.

  The big hit release post-processing in step S116 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is “6”. In this post-hit opening process, the process of determining whether or not the number of rounds in which the winning opening is open has reached the maximum number of opening of the big winning opening, or the maximum number of opening of the big winning opening has been reached. In some cases, a process for performing a setting for transmitting an end designation command is included.

  The big hit end process in step S117 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is “7”. In the jackpot end process, a waiting time corresponding to a period in which an ending effect as an effect operation for notifying the end of the jackpot game state is executed by an effect device such as the image display device 5, the speakers 8L and 8R, the game effect lamp 9 or the like. Processing that waits until time elapses and processing that performs various settings for controlling to a probable change state or a short time state corresponding to the big hit type are included.

  The small hit pre-release process in step S118 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is “8”. This pre-opening process for small hits is a setting for starting the execution of variable winning action in the small hit game state and opening the big winning opening based on the fact that the variable display result is “small hit”, etc. The processing to perform is included. At this time, for example, in response to the variable display result being “small hit”, the upper limit of the period during which the big winning opening is opened is set to “0.5 seconds”, and the big winning opening in the variable winning operation is set. The number of times of opening may be set to “twice”.

  The small hit releasing process in step S119 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is “9”. In the small hit opening process, the process for measuring the elapsed time since the big prize opening is in the open state, and the timing for returning the big prize opening from the open state to the closed state based on the measured elapsed time, etc. The process etc. which determine whether or not were included are included. When returning the big prize opening to the closed state, a process for stopping the supply of the drive signal to the solenoid 82 for the big prize opening door may be executed.

  The small hit end process in step S120 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is “10”. In this small hit end process, there is a waiting time corresponding to a period during which the presentation operation for informing the end of the small hit gaming state is executed by the presentation device such as the image display device 5, the speakers 8L and 8R, the game effect lamp 9 or the like. Processing that waits until the time has passed is included. Here, when the small hit gaming state is finished, the state of the pachinko gaming machine 1 before the small hit gaming state is continued without changing the state of the probability change flag and the short time flag.

  FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing an example of the process executed in step S110 of FIG. 22 as the special symbol normal process. In the special symbol normal process shown in FIG. 24, the CPU 104 first determines whether or not the second special figure holding storage number is “0” (step S231). The second special figure reserved memory number is the reserved memory number of the special figure game using the second special figure by the second special symbol display device 4B. For example, in the process of step S231, the second reserved memory number count value stored in the game control counter setting unit 594 may be read and it may be determined whether or not the read value is “0”.

  When the second special figure reservation storage number is other than “0” in step S231 (step S231; No), the second special figure reservation storage unit 591B stores the storage corresponding to the reservation number “1”. As the data, numerical data indicating the random number value MR1 for determining the special figure display result, the random value MR2 for determining the big hit type, and the random value MR3 for determining the variation pattern type are read out (step S232). The numerical data read at this time may be stored in, for example, a random number buffer for variation provided in the game control buffer setting unit 595 and temporarily stored.

  Subsequent to the processing of step S232, for example, by subtracting and updating the second reserved memory number count value by 1, etc., the second special figure reserved memory number is updated by 1 and the second special figure reserved memory is also updated. The hold data indicating the random number values MR1 to MR3 stored in the entry lower than the hold number “1” (for example, the entry corresponding to the hold numbers “2” to “4”) is shifted upward by one entry in the unit 591B. (Step S233). Further, in the process of step S233, the game control counter setting unit 594 may update the total reserved memory number count value stored in the total reserved memory number counter by one. At this time, for example, the variable special figure designation buffer value, which is the stored value of the special fluctuation figure designation buffer provided in the game control buffer setting unit 595, is updated to “2” (step S234).

  When the second special figure reserved memory number is “0” in step S231 (step S231; Yes), it is determined whether or not the first special figure reserved memory number is “0” (step S235). The first special figure reserved memory number is the reserved memory number of the special figure game using the first special figure by the first special symbol display device 4A. For example, in the process of step S235, the game control counter setting unit 594 reads the first reserved memory number count value stored in the first reserved memory number counter, and determines whether or not the read value is “0”. That's fine. Thus, the process of step S235 is executed when it is determined in step S231 that the second special figure reserved memory number is “0”, and the first special figure reserved memory number is “0”. It is determined whether or not. Thereby, execution of the special figure game using the second special figure is started in preference to the special figure game using the first special figure.

  It should be noted that the special game using the second special figure is not limited to a game executed with priority over the special graphic game using the first special figure. For example, the first start prize opening and the second start prize opening may be used. The execution of the special game may be started in the order in which the game balls enter (pass) and start winnings are generated. In this case, a table for storing data capable of specifying the order in which the start winnings are generated is provided, and the execution of the special game using either the first special figure or the second special figure is started from the stored data. It only has to be determined.

  When the first special figure reservation storage number is other than “0” in step S235 (step S235; No), the first special figure storage unit 591A stores the hold corresponding to the hold number “1”. As the data, numerical data indicating the random number value MR1 for determining the special figure display result, the random value MR2 for determining the jackpot type, and the random value MR3 for determining the variation pattern type are read out (step S236). The numerical data read at this time may be stored in a random number buffer for variation, for example, and temporarily stored.

  Subsequent to the process of step S236, for example, by updating the first reserved memory number count value by subtracting 1 and updating the first special figure reserved memory number, the first special figure reserved memory is updated. The hold data indicating the random number values MR1 to MR3 stored in the entry lower than the hold number “1” (for example, the entry corresponding to the hold numbers “2” to “4”) is shifted upward by one entry in the unit 591A. (Step S237). In the process of step S237, the game control counter setting unit 594 may update the total reserved memory number count value stored in the total reserved memory number counter by one. At this time, the variable special figure designation buffer value is updated to “1” (step S238).

  After executing any of the processes of steps S234 and S238, it is determined whether to display the special figure variable display result, which is the variable symbol display result, as “big hit”, “small hit”, or “losing”. A special figure display result determination table is selected and set as a usage table (step S239). The CPU 104 may select either the first special figure display result determination table 130A or the second special figure display result determination table 130B as the use table according to the variable special figure designation buffer value. For example, when the variable special figure designation buffer value is “1”, the first special figure display result determination table 130A is selected, while when the variable special figure designation buffer value is “2”, the second special figure display result decision is determined. The table 130B may be selected. Further, the table data in the special figure display result determining table used for determining the special figure display result corresponding to the current gaming state may be selected. Subsequently, the numerical data indicating the random number value MR1 for determining the special figure display result stored in the random number buffer for change is assigned to the special figure display results of “big hit”, “small hit”, and “losing”. The special figure display result is determined to be either “big hit”, “small hit”, or “losing” depending on which of the special figure display results matches the determined value. (Step S240).

  Since table data corresponding to the current gaming state is selected in step S239, in the process of step S240, it is determined whether or not the gaming state when the variable display such as the special figure game is started is the certain change state. Accordingly, it is determined whether or not the special figure display result is “big hit” using different determination data. For example, when the game state when variable display such as a special figure game is started is a normal state or a short time state, table data corresponding to the case where the game state is a normal state or a short time state in the special figure display result determination table is Is selected as normal determination data, and the special figure display result corresponding to the random value MR1 is determined with reference to this data. On the other hand, when the game state when the variable display of the special figure game or the like is started is the probability change state, the table data corresponding to the case where the game state is the probability change state in the special figure display result determination table is used as the special determination data. A special figure display result corresponding to the random value MR1 is determined with reference to this.

  After determining the special figure display result in step S240, it is determined whether or not the special figure display result is “big hit” (step S241). If it is determined that the game is a “hit” (step S241; Yes), the big hit flag provided in the game control flag setting unit 592 is set to the on state (step S242). At this time, the big hit type determination table 131 is selected and set as a use table for determining the big hit type as one of a plurality of types (step S243). At this time, it suffices to specify whether the fluctuation special chart is the first special figure or the second special figure according to the fluctuation special figure designation buffer value. The CPU 104 refers to the jackpot type determination table 131 to change the numerical data indicating the jackpot type determination random number value MR2 stored in the random number buffer for fluctuation into “non-probable change”, “first probability change” to “third probability change”. Compared with the decision value assigned to each jackpot type of "probability change" or "surprise accuracy", whether the jackpot type is "non-probability change", "first probability change" to "third probability change", "surprise accuracy" Determine (step S244). Corresponding to the jackpot type determined in this way, for example, by setting a jackpot type buffer value which is a stored value of the jackpot type buffer provided in the game control buffer setting unit 595 (step S245), the determined jackpot type Remember. As an example, if the big hit type is “non-probable change”, the big hit type buffer value is “0”, “1” is “1”, “2” is “2”, If it is “third probability variation”, it is “3”, and if it is “probability”, it is “4”.

  When it is determined in step S241 that it is not “big hit” (step S241; No), it is determined whether or not the special figure display result is “small hit” (step S246). When it is determined that the game is “small hit” (step S246; Yes), the small hit flag provided in the game control flag setting unit 592 is set to the on state (step S247).

  If it is determined in step S246 that the game is not “small hit” (step S246; No), or after performing any of the processes in steps S245 and S247, whether to control the big hit gaming state or the small hit gaming state. A determined special symbol is set in accordance with the result of the prior determination as to whether or not, and further, the determination result of the jackpot type when the jackpot game state is set (step S248). As an example, when it is determined in step S246 that the special figure display result is not “small hit”, a lost symbol is obtained corresponding to the pre-determined result indicating that the special figure display result is “lost”. The special symbol indicating the symbol “−” is set as the confirmed special symbol. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S246 that the special figure display result is “small hit”, the small figure corresponding to the pre-determined result indicating that the special figure display result is “small hit”. The special symbol indicating the number “5” as the symbol is set as the confirmed special symbol. When it is determined in step S241 that the special figure display result is “big hit”, “1”, “3”, and “7” that are big hit symbols are determined according to the determination result of the big hit type in step S244. One of the special symbols indicating numbers is set as the confirmed special symbol. That is, according to the determination result that the big hit type is “non-probable change”, the special symbol indicating the number “3” that becomes the 15-round non-probable big hit symbol is set as the confirmed special symbol. Also, according to the determination result that the jackpot type is any one of “first probability variation” to “third probability variation”, the special symbol indicating the number “7” that becomes the 15-round probability variation big hit symbol is set as the confirmed special symbol. . A special symbol indicating the number “1”, which is a two-round probability variable big hit symbol, is set as a confirmed special symbol according to the determination result that the big hit type is “surprise”.

  After the confirmed special symbol is set in step S248, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to “1” corresponding to the variation pattern setting process (step S249), and then the special symbol normal process is terminated. . When the number of first special figure reservation storage is “0” in step S235 (step S235; Yes), a predetermined demonstration display setting is performed (step S250), and the special symbol normal process is terminated. In this demonstration display setting, for example, a production control command (customer waiting demonstration designation command) for designating demonstration display (demonstration screen display) by displaying a predetermined production image on the screen of the image display device 5 is used as the main board 11. It is determined whether or not transmission to the effect control board 12 has been completed. At this time, if the transmission has been completed, the demonstration display setting is ended as it is. On the other hand, if it has not been transmitted, the setting for transmitting the customer waiting demonstration designation command is performed, and then the demonstration display setting is terminated.

  Further, in the process of step S250, the transmission setting of the background designation command may be performed together with the customer waiting demonstration designation command. Thus, even when the special game is not started after the power is turned on or after the big hit gaming state or the small hit gaming state is finished, the background image corresponding to the gaming state at that time is displayed on the presentation control microcomputer 120 of the presentation control board 12. You can be notified.

  In such special symbol normal processing, for example, in step S240, the special symbol display result is determined as one of “big hit”, “small hit”, or “losing”, etc. Whether or not the gaming state is controlled to the big hit gaming state as a big hit symbol, and whether the gaming state is controlled to the small hit gaming state as a small hit symbol that makes the variable display result of the special symbol a predetermined display result. This can be determined before the special figure display result as the variable display result in the figure game is derived.

  FIG. 25 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process executed in step S111 of FIG. 22 as the variation pattern setting process. In the variation pattern setting process shown in FIG. 25, the CPU 104 first determines the variation pattern based on the random value MR3 for determining the variation pattern type (step S261). In the process of step S261, one of a plurality of variation pattern type determination tables prepared in advance according to the special figure display result may be selected as the use table, and the variation pattern type may be determined based on the random value MR3. Then, the variation pattern determination table based on the determination result of the variation pattern type is selected as the use table, and the variation pattern may be determined based on the random number MR4 for determining the variation pattern. Here, in the variation pattern type determination table corresponding to the case where the special figure display result is “losing”, the random value is obtained for the variation pattern type including the non-reach variation pattern and the variation pattern type including the reach variation pattern. A numerical value (decision value) to be compared with MR3 is assigned, and by determining the variation pattern type based on the random number value MR3, it may be determined whether or not the variable display state of the decorative symbol is to be the reach state.

  After the change pattern is determined in step S261, a special figure change time corresponding to the change pattern is set (step S262). In the process of step S262, a timer initial value determined in advance according to the special figure change time is set in a special figure change timer provided in the game control timer setting unit 593. In this case, every time the special symbol variation process of step S112 shown in FIG. 22 is executed, for example, the value of the special symbol variation timer is updated so as to be decremented by 1, and when the value becomes “0”. Then, it may be determined that the elapsed time since the start of the special symbol variation has reached the special symbol variation time. Alternatively, in the process of step S262, by clearing the special figure fluctuation timer, “0” may be set as the timer initial value, and a special figure fluctuation end determination value corresponding to the special figure fluctuation time may be set. . In this case, every time the special symbol variation process of step S112 shown in FIG. 22 is executed, for example, the value of the special symbol variation timer is updated so as to be incremented by 1, and the value reaches the special diagram variation end determination value. In this case, it may be determined that the elapsed time from the start of the change of the special symbol has reached the special symbol change time.

  After performing the process of step S262, the setting for starting the variation of the special symbol in the special figure game is performed (step S263). In the process of step S263, according to the value of the variable special symbol designation flag, the special symbol game using the first special symbol by the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol by the second special symbol display device 4B are displayed. Any one of the special figure games used may be started. As an example, if the value of the variable special symbol designation flag is “1”, special symbol display control data for updating the display of the first special symbol by the first special symbol display device 4A is set to be readable from the ROM 105. To do. On the other hand, if the value of the variable special symbol designation flag is “2”, special symbol display control data for updating the display of the second special symbol by the second special symbol display device 4B can be read from the ROM 105. Set to. Then, based on the set special symbol display control data, a drive signal is transmitted to the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B. What is necessary is just to start the fluctuation display of a special figure or a 2nd special figure.

  Subsequently, a setting for transmitting various commands at the start of special figure change from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12 is performed (step S264). For example, when the value of the variation special figure designation flag is “1”, a first variation prepared in advance for sequentially transmitting a first variation start command, a variation pattern designation command, and a variable display result notification command. Select the start command table and set it in the send command buffer. On the other hand, when the value of the variation special figure designation flag is “2”, the second variation prepared in advance is used to sequentially transmit the second variation start command, the variation pattern designation command, and the variable display result notification command. Select the start command table and set it in the send command buffer. The order in which these effect control commands are transmitted can be arbitrarily changed. For example, after the variable display result notification command is transmitted first, the first variation start command or the second variation start command is transmitted, Finally, a variation pattern designation command may be transmitted.

  In the process of step S264, settings for transmitting a background designation command, a pending storage number notification command, and the like may be performed. By performing transmission setting of the background designation command in the process of step S264, the background image corresponding to the gaming state at the start of the special figure game can be notified to the effect control microcomputer 120 of the effect control board 12. Thereafter, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “2” which is a value corresponding to the special symbol fluctuation process (step S265), and then the fluctuation pattern setting process is terminated.

  FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing an example of the process executed in step S113 of FIG. 22 as the special symbol stop process. In the special symbol stop process shown in FIG. 26, the CPU 104 first determines whether the big hit flag is on or off (step S281). At this time, if the big hit flag is on (step S281; Yes), the big hit start production waiting time is set (step S282). For example, in the process of step S282, a timer initial value determined in advance corresponding to the jackpot start time production waiting time may be set in the game control process timer provided in the game control timer setting unit 593. Subsequently, a setting for transmitting a jackpot start designation command from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12 is performed (step S283).

  After executing the processing of step S283, it is determined whether or not the time-shortening control is being performed in response to whether the time-shortening flag is on (step S284). If the time reduction control is being performed (step S284; Yes), the big hit type buffer value is read (step S285), and the big hit type is “non-probable change”, “first positive change” to “third positive change”, “surprising”. Identify which one of them. At this time, it is determined whether or not the identified jackpot type is “surprise” (step S286).

  If it is determined in step S286 that the hit type is “Crash” (Step S286; Yes), the special figure display result is “Big hit” and “Crash” hit type during execution of the time reduction control. In response to the control, the short / medium collision probability flag provided in the game control flag setting unit 592 is set to the on state (step S287). In this way, by setting the short / medium rush accuracy flag to the ON state, in response to the “probability big hit” during the execution of the short time control, the time change accuracy change state where the time reduction control is performed together with the probability change control after the end of the two round big hit state. Can be transferred to.

  When the time reduction flag is off at step S284 (step S284; No), when the big hit type is not “coincidence” at step S286 (step S286; No), or after executing the process of step S287 The big hit flag is cleared and turned off (step S288). Also, in response to the special figure display result being “big hit”, settings are made to end the probability variation control and the time reduction control (step S289). For example, in the process of step S289, the probability variation flag and the time reduction flag are cleared and turned off. Further, if the time reduction count value is a value other than “0”, the time reduction count counter may be cleared and the count value may be initialized to “0”. Thereafter, the special symbol process flag value is updated to “4”, which is a value corresponding to the big hit release pre-processing (step S290), and the special symbol stop processing is terminated.

  When the big hit flag is off in step S281 (step S281; No), it is determined whether or not the small hit flag is on (step S291). When the small hit flag is on (step S291; Yes), a small hit start production waiting time is set (step S292). For example, in the process of step S292, a timer initial value determined in advance corresponding to the small hitting start time production waiting time may be set in the game control process timer. Subsequently, a setting for transmitting a small hitting start designation command from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12 is performed (step S293). Further, the small hit flag is cleared and turned off (step S294). Thereafter, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “8” which is a value corresponding to the small hit release pre-processing (step S295).

  When the small hit flag is OFF in step S291 (step S292; No), the value of the special figure process flag is initialized to “0” (step S296). After executing one of the processes in steps S295 and S296, it is determined whether or not the probability variation control or the time-shortening control is to be ended (step S297). For example, in the process of step S297, it is determined whether or not the time reduction count value is “0”, and if the value is other than “0”, the time reduction count value is updated to be subtracted by one. Then, when the updated time count count value becomes “0”, it may be determined to end the time control. At this time, if it is determined that the time reduction control is to be ended, a setting for ending the time reduction control is performed, for example, by clearing the time reduction flag to turn it off. Further, the time variation control may be terminated and the probability variation control may be terminated. Alternatively, during the probability variation control in which the probability variation control is being performed, the time-shortening control may be continuously performed until the special figure display result becomes “big hit”. In addition to the determination as to whether or not the time-shortening control is ended, the determination as to whether or not the probability variation control is ended may be performed. Then, after setting for transmitting a background designation command from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12 (step S298), the special symbol stop process is terminated.

  FIG. 27 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process executed in step S117 of FIG. 22 as the big hit end process. In the jackpot end process shown in FIG. 27, first, the CPU 104 determines whether or not the big hit end presentation waiting time has elapsed (step S311). As an example, in the post-hit opening post-processing in step S116 shown in FIG. 22, when the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “7”, a timer initial value determined in advance corresponding to the big hit end presentation waiting time is set. Set to the game control process timer. In this case, in the process of step S311, for example, the game control process timer value is updated by subtracting 1 or the like, and the updated game control process timer value matches a predetermined waiting time elapsed determination value (for example, “0” or the like). Whether or not the big hit end production waiting time has elapsed may be determined according to whether or not the game has been done. If the big hit end presentation waiting time has not elapsed in step S311 (step S311; No), the big hit end processing is ended as it is.

  When the big hit end presentation waiting time has elapsed in step S311 (step S311; Yes), the big hit type buffer value is read (step S312), and the big hit type is “non-probable change”, “first positive change” to “third”. Specify whether it was "probability change" or "surprise". At this time, it is determined whether or not the identified jackpot type is “surprise” (step S313).

  When it is determined in step S313 that the big hit type is “probability” (step S313; Yes), it is determined whether or not the short / medium collision probability flag is on (step S314). If the hour / medium collision probability flag is on (step S314; Yes), the hour / medium collision probability flag is cleared and initialized to an off state (step S315), and then the process proceeds to step S316. On the other hand, when the short / medium collision probability flag is OFF in step S314 (step S314; No), the process proceeds to step S317.

  When it is determined in step S313 that the big hit type is not “probable” (step S313; No), after executing the process of step S315, setting for starting the time reduction control is performed (step S316). For example, the CPU 104 sets the time reduction flag to the on state, and sets a predetermined count initial value (for example, “100”) corresponding to the upper limit value of the special figure game that can be executed during the time reduction control to the time reduction counter Set to.

  When it is determined in step S314 that the short / medium collision probability flag is off (step S314; No), after executing the process of step S316, the jackpot type identified by the process of step S312 is “non-probable change”. It is determined whether or not (step S317). When it is determined that the big hit type is not “non-probable change” (step S317; No), setting for starting the probability change control is performed (step S318). For example, the CPU 104 sets the probability variation flag to the on state.

  When it is determined in step S317 that the big hit type is “non-probable change” (step S317; Yes), after executing the process of step S318, the special figure process flag value is initialized to “0” ( Step S319), the big hit end processing is ended.

  FIG. 28 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process executed in step S28 of FIG. 21 as the information output process. In the information output process shown in FIG. 28, the CPU 104 first checks whether the on-time state signal outputting flag is on (step S131). In response to the start of external output of the on-time state signal, the on-time state signal outputting flag is set to an on state in step S133 described later. If the on-state signal output flag is off (step S131; No), it is determined whether or not the on-state signal output is specified (step S132). In this embodiment, when the pachinko gaming machine 1 is not turned on when the power is turned on and data indicating that the RAM 106 is in a certain variation state is stored in the RAM 106, Status signal output is designated (see step S93 in FIG. 20).

  When there is an output designation of the on-time state signal (step S132; Yes), for example, a on-state state signal outputting flag provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 106 such as the game control flag setting unit 592 is set to an on state (step S133) . Note that when the on-state signal output specification is performed by the on-state signal output designation flag provided separately from the probability variation flag, when the on-state signal output flag is set by the processing of step S133. The output state signal output designation may be initialized (erased) by clearing the on-state signal output designation flag to turn it off. On the other hand, when the output state signal is designated by holding the state of the probability variation flag as it is, the state of the probability variation flag is not changed even if the process of step S133 is executed, for example, cleared again. When the probability variation control is terminated, such as when the power to the pachinko gaming machine 1 is turned on again while pressing the switch 501 or the big hit gaming state is started, the probability variation flag is cleared and turned off. The output designation of the time state signal may be initialized (erased).

  If the on-state signal output flag is on in step S131 (step S131; Yes), it is determined whether or not the on-state signal output stop condition is satisfied (step S134). The condition for stopping the output of the on-time state signal may be satisfied, for example, when the first jackpot gaming state is controlled after the pachinko gaming machine 1 is powered on. Alternatively, when a game ball that first passes through the first start winning opening or the second starting winning opening after power-on of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is detected by either the first or second start opening switch 22A, 22B, When the pachinko gaming machine 1 is turned on for the first time after the power is turned on, when the number of variable displays executed after the pachinko gaming machine 1 is turned on reaches a predetermined number of times, the pachinko gaming machine 1 is turned on. Or when the number of game balls launched into the game area after turning on the power reaches a predetermined number, or when the operation of the clear switch 501 is detected after turning on the power, etc. The condition for stopping the output of the on-state signal may be satisfied at an arbitrary predetermined timing.

  When the on-state signal output flag is set to ON in step S133, or when it is determined in step S134 that the on-state signal output stop condition is not satisfied (step S134; No), the information buffer The state signal output bit position at the time of input (bit 3 of output port 0 in the example shown in FIG. 11) is set (step S135). When the input state signal output bit position of the information buffer is set, the input state signal is output from the output port 0 by outputting the bit value of the information buffer to the output port 0 in the subsequent step S147 (ON State).

  If it is determined in step S134 that the condition for stopping the output of the on-state signal is satisfied (step S134; Yes), the on-state signal outputting flag is cleared and turned off (step S136). If there is no designation of output of the on-time state signal at step S132 (step S132; No), or if the output stop condition of the on-time state signal is satisfied at step S134 (step S134; Yes), step S135 As a result of the processing not being executed, the on-state signal is turned off.

  The output designation of the on-time state signal may only be performed when the pachinko gaming machine 1 is turned on (see step S93 in FIG. 20), and the output designation is not made thereafter. Therefore, after the game is started after the pachinko gaming machine 1 is turned on, even when data indicating a special gaming state (probability change state, etc.) is stored, the on-time state signal is output externally. It is limited not to be done. In addition, after starting the external output of the power-on state signal based on the output specification at the time of power-on, and after stopping the external output of the power-on state signal due to the establishment of the output stop condition, even if the special gaming state (probability change state etc. ) Is stored so that the on-time state signal is not externally output.

  When there is no designation of output of the state signal at the time of input in step S132 (step S132; No), or after execution of any of the processes of steps S135 and S136, for example, in a predetermined area of the RAM 106 such as the game control counter setting unit 594 It is determined whether or not the stored payout condition determination count value has reached a predetermined condition establishment determination value (eg, “10”) (step S137). The payout condition determination count value is added and updated based on the winning ball detection result (see step S153 in FIG. 30).

  If the payout condition determination count value has reached the condition establishment determination value in step S137 (step S137; Yes), the payout condition determination count value is updated so that a predetermined number (eg, “10”) is subtracted. (Step S138). Further, the condition satisfaction signal output remaining count is updated so as to be incremented by 1 (step S139). In the process of step S139, for example, the condition satisfaction signal output remaining number buffer value stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 106 such as the game control buffer setting unit 595 may be incremented by one.

  If the payout condition determination count value has not reached the condition satisfaction determination value in step S137 (step S137; No), or after the processing of step S139 is executed, is the condition satisfaction signal output timer value “0”? It is determined whether or not (step S140). The condition establishment signal output timer value is stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 106 such as the game control timer setting unit 593, for example, and a predetermined initial value is set by a process in step S144 described later. When the condition satisfaction signal output timer value is not “0” (step S140; No), the timer value is updated to be subtracted by 1 (step S141).

  If the condition satisfaction signal output timer value is “0” in step S140 (step S140; Yes), it is determined whether or not the condition satisfaction signal output remaining count is “0” (step S142). If the condition satisfaction signal output remaining count is other than “0” (step S142; No), the value is updated so that 1 is subtracted (step S143). Then, a predetermined timer initial value corresponding to the output time (for example, 1 second) of the payout condition satisfaction signal is set in the condition satisfaction signal output timer (step S144).

  After executing one of the processes of steps S141 and S144, the information buffer payout condition satisfaction signal output bit position (bit 4 of output port 0 in the example shown in FIG. 11) is set (step S145). When the information buffer payout condition satisfaction signal output bit position is set, the payout condition satisfaction signal is output from the output port 0 (ON) by outputting the bit value of the information buffer to the output port 0 in the subsequent step S147. State).

  When 1 is subtracted from the condition satisfaction signal output timer value in step S141, if the timer value becomes "0", the next timer interrupt process is executed, so that the process of step S142 is executed and the condition is established. If the remaining number of signal outputs is other than “0”, an external output of the payout condition satisfaction signal is continued. That is, when a payout condition for paying out a prize ball using a predetermined number (for example, 10) of game balls as a prize is continuously established, the external output time of the payout condition establishment signal is extended. Therefore, for example, in an external device such as a hall computer, the number of times that the payout condition is continuously established can be specified from the length of time during which the payout condition establishment signal is on.

  In addition, it is not limited to the one that extends the external output time of the payout condition establishment signal when the payout condition is continuously established, and the payout condition establishment signal is temporarily turned off until a predetermined signal output standby time elapses. You may do it. In this case, for example, when the timer value after subtraction in step S141 becomes “0”, the signal output standby time is set, and the timer value is “0” in step S140 until the time elapses. Even if it determines with it, what is necessary is just to make it progress to the process of step S146, without performing the process of step S142.

  If the remaining condition satisfaction signal output count is “0” in step S142 (step S142; Yes), or after executing the process of step S145, information on other information output signals is determined based on the success or failure of the output conditions. The signal output bit position in the buffer is set (step S146). Then, after performing output control of the information output signal according to each bit value of the information buffer (step S147), the information output processing is ended.

  FIG. 29 is an explanatory diagram showing the output timing of the on-state signal. In this embodiment, at the start of power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 1, the initialization process is performed after the power supply voltage reaches a predetermined voltage and the game control microcomputer 100 is started as shown in FIG. When the power failure recovery setting is performed without being executed (see step S91 in FIG. 20), for example, data indicating a special gaming state due to the probability change flag stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 106 being on. Is stored, the output state signal is designated (see step S93 in FIG. 20). In the information output process, the processes of steps S131 to S136 and S147 are executed, and as shown in FIG. 29B, an on-state signal is output to an external device such as a hall computer. As described above, when the power to the pachinko gaming machine 1 is turned on, the clear signal from the clear switch 501 is not input (step S7; No in FIG. 20), and the initialization process is not executed. On the basis of the fact that the data indicating the special gaming state is stored in the predetermined area (step S92 in FIG. 20; Yes), an on-time state signal is output to the outside.

  Thus, after the external output of the on-state signal is started, the external output of the on-state signal is continuously performed until a predetermined output stop condition is satisfied. For example, it is executed after the pachinko gaming machine 1 is turned on until the first big hit gaming state is controlled after the pachinko gaming machine 1 is turned on, or until the first probable state is controlled after the pachinko gaming machine 1 is turned on. The number of game balls fired into the game area after the power is turned on reaches a predetermined number until the number of times the variable display is made reaches a predetermined number of times, or until the elapsed time from when the power of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is turned on reaches a predetermined time. Until a predetermined output stop condition is satisfied, such as until the operation of the clear switch 501 is detected after the power is turned on until the power is turned on, the on-state signal can be continuously output to the outside.

  FIG. 30 is a flowchart showing an example of the process executed in step S29 of FIG. 21 as the prize ball process. In the prize ball processing shown in FIG. 30, the CPU 103 first detects a prize ball based on detection signals from the first and second start opening switches 22A and 22B, the count switch 23, the general prize opening switch 24, and the like. It is determined whether or not there has been (step S151). In the process of step S151, if any of the switch timer values provided for the respective switches has reached the switch-on determination value, the game ball that has passed (entered) the winning opening corresponding to the switch has won a prize. What is necessary is just to determine with having detected as a sphere.

  If a winning ball is detected in step S151 (step S151; Yes), the winning ball detection result is stored (step S152). In the process of step S152, for example, the value of a prize ball command output counter provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 106 such as the game control counter setting unit 594 may be updated to be incremented by one. A plurality of prize ball command output counters are provided in advance corresponding to each prize opening (first starting prize opening, second starting prize opening, large prize winning opening, general winning prize opening), and corresponding to the winning opening from which the winning ball is detected. The counted value may be incremented by one. Thereafter, the payout condition determination count value is added and updated according to the winning ball detection result (step S153). In the process of step S153, the number of winning balls based on the detection of a new winning ball in any winning slot is updated so as to be added to the payout condition determination count value.

  When no winning ball is detected in step S151 (step S151; No), after executing the processing of step S153, it is determined whether or not the transmission of the winning ball number command is restricted. (Step S154). As an example, after a prize ball number command is transmitted from the main board 11 to the payout control board 15, a prize ball number acceptance command and a prize transmitted from the payout control board 15 before a predetermined time (for example, 10 seconds) elapses. Until the ball end command is received, the transmission of the next prize ball number command is restricted and the transmission of the prize ball number command is in a standby state. On the other hand, even if the prize ball number command and the prize ball end command are received after the prize ball number command is transmitted even before the predetermined time elapses, transmission restrictions on the prize ball number command in the transmission standby state are received. May be canceled.

  If the transmission of the winning ball number command is not being restricted in step S154 (step S154; No), it is determined whether there is a winning ball detection memory (step S155). If a winning ball is detected and stored (step S155; Yes), a control for transmitting a winning ball number command corresponding to the winning opening from the main board 11 to the payout control board 15 is performed (step S156). In the process of step S156, for example, among the plurality of prize ball number command output counters, a prize ball number corresponding to a counter whose count value is not “0” may be set so as to be designated by the prize ball number command. . The output data of the prize ball number command for designating the number of prize balls may be set in the transmission data register of the serial communication circuit 108.

  After executing the process of step S156, a prize ball number command transmission time limit (for example, 10 seconds) is set (step S157). Based on the prize ball number command transmission time limit set in step S157, it is confirmed whether or not a prize ball number acceptance command or a prize ball preparation command is received within 10 seconds after the prize ball number command is transmitted. Is done. The connection confirmation command may be transmitted when 10 seconds elapse without receiving the award ball number acceptance command or the award ball preparation command. If the award ball number command transmission limit time is received before the award ball number command transmission time limit elapses, the award ball number command transmission time limit setting is cleared and the award ball number command transmission time limit is cleared. It suffices if the command transmission restriction can be removed.

  Following the process of step S157, the number of prize balls designated by the prize ball number command transmitted by the process of step S156 is updated so as to be added to the prize ball number count value which is the stored value of the prize ball number counter ( Step S158). The prize ball number counter is a counter used for grasping the number of prize balls that have not been paid out on the game control microcomputer 100 side, and the prize ball number designated when the prize ball number command is transmitted is added. Each time a predetermined number (for example, 10) of winning ball payouts is detected, subtraction is updated based on a payout detection signal transmitted from the payout control microcomputer 150.

  If the transmission of the number-of-balls command is being restricted in step S154 (step S154; Yes), or if no winning ball is detected and stored in step S155 (step S155; No), or the process of step S158 is executed. Thereafter, it is determined whether or not a predetermined prize ball error has occurred (step S159). In the process of step S156, for example, the status register of the serial communication circuit 108 may be checked, and if any error bit is set, it may be determined that a prize ball error has occurred. Further, it may be determined that a prize ball error has occurred when a prize ball preparing command transmitted from the payout control microcomputer 150 is received.

  If it is determined in step S159 that no prize ball error has occurred (step S159; No), it is determined whether or not there is a normal input of a payout detection signal transmitted from the payout control microcomputer 150 (step S159; No). Step S160). In the process of step S160, bit 7 of the input port 1 shown in FIG. 12 is input, and it is confirmed whether or not the payout detection signal is in an on state. When the payout detection signal is in the on state, it may be determined that there is a normal input of the payout detection signal when 6 or more of the 8 times the signal input is confirmed is in the on state. If there is a normal input of the payout detection signal (step S160; Yes), the prize ball number count value is subtracted and updated (step S161). In the process of step S161, the update may be performed so as to subtract a predetermined number (for example, “10”) from the prize ball number count value.

  When there is no normal input of the payout detection signal in step S160 (step S160; No), after executing the process of step S161, it is determined whether or not a prize ball count error has occurred (step S162). . In the process of step S162, when the prize ball number count value is greater than or equal to a predetermined prize ball shortage determination value (eg, “501”) or less than the prize ball excess judgment value (eg, “0”), It may be determined that a prize ball error such as a shortage or excessive prize balls has occurred. In the award ball number counter, for example, “250” may be set as an initial value in the initial setting process of the game control main process. If the prize ball count value is “501” or more, the number of unpaid prize balls is abnormally increased, and it is determined that there are insufficient prize balls. If the prize ball count value is less than “0”, the number of paid-out prize balls is abnormally increased, and it is determined that there are excessive prize balls.

  If it is determined in step S159 that a prize ball error has occurred (step S159; Yes), or if it is determined in step S162 that a prize ball number count error has occurred (step S162; Yes), After setting when a payout error occurs (step S163), the prize ball processing is terminated. In the process of step S163, for example, a payout error flag is set, and a payout error command is transmitted from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12 to notify the occurrence of the payout error using a predetermined effect device. Good.

  Thus, when the prize ball number command is transmitted by the transmission control in step S156, the prize ball number command transmission time limit is set in step S157. However, even before the time limit elapses, the payout control microcomputer 150 is set. When a prize ball number acceptance command and a prize ball end command transmitted from are received, the setting of the prize ball number command transmission limit time is cleared, and the transmission limit for the next prize ball number command in the transmission standby state is set. Canceled. Accordingly, when the memorized number of winning balls is accumulated, the next winning ball number command can be transmitted immediately.

  Note that, after a prize ball number command is transmitted, until the predetermined time elapses, transmission of the next prize ball number command is always limited, and after the predetermined time has elapsed, the accumulated prize ball number is stored. The corresponding next prize ball number command may be transmitted.

  FIG. 31 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process executed in step S30 of FIG. 21 as the test terminal process. In the test terminal process shown in FIG. 31, the CPU 104 determines whether or not the value of the special figure process flag is less than “4” (step S171). In the special symbol process shown in FIG. 22, when the value of the special figure process flag is less than “4”, the game state in the pachinko gaming machine 1 is not controlled to the big hit gaming state or the small hit gaming state. It corresponds. Therefore, if the value of the special figure process flag is “4” or more, the gaming state is the big hit gaming state or the small hit gaming state, and the big prize opening is opened by the big prize opening door provided in the special variable winning ball apparatus 7. It can be specified that the period changes between the open state (first state) and the closed state (second state).

  When the value of the special figure process flag is less than “4” in step S171 (step S171; Yes), it is determined whether or not the time reduction control is being performed by executing a predetermined time reduction check process (step S171; Yes). Step S172). In the time reduction check process, it is only necessary to confirm whether or not the time reduction flag that is turned on in correspondence with the period in which the time reduction control is performed is set.

  When the value of the special figure process flag is “4” or more at step S171 (step S171; No), or when the time-short control is being performed at step S172 (step S172; Yes), the firing position of the information buffer The designated signal output bit position (bit 6 of output port 2 in the example shown in FIG. 11) is set (step S173).

  When the time-shortening control is not being performed in step S172 (step S172; No), after executing the process of step S173, the signal output bit position in the information buffer is determined based on the success or failure of the output condition for the other test terminal output signals. Is set (step S174). Then, after performing output control of the test terminal output signal in accordance with each bit value of the information buffer (step S175), the test terminal processing is ended.

  By executing the process of step S175 after executing the process of step S173, it corresponds to the big winning opening being opened in the big hit game state or the small hit game state, and the high open control together with the time reduction control In response to the fact that the second start winning opening is likely to be in an open state due to being performed, a firing position designation signal indicating that the game ball should be launched into the right game area 2B, which is the second game area, is output externally Can do. Note that the launch position designation signal is actually output to the outside of the pachinko gaming machine 1 only when the test apparatus is attached to the main board 11, for example, and is normally used when the test apparatus is removed. Sometimes, the launch position designation signal may not be output externally. However, the processing in steps S173 and S175 may be executed even during normal use as processing for externally outputting the launch position designation signal.

  Next, the operation in the payout control board 15 will be described. In the payout control board 15, when the power supply voltage is supplied from the power supply board 10, the payout control microcomputer 150 is activated, and the payout control main process as shown in the flowchart of FIG. 32 is executed by the CPU 214.

  In the payout control main process shown in FIG. 32, the CPU 214 first performs necessary initial settings. That is, after setting the interrupt prohibition (step S401), the interrupt mode is set to the interrupt mode 2 (step S402), and the stack pointer designation address is set to the stack pointer (step S403). The built-in device register is set (step S404). In the process of step S404, for example, register setting for using one channel in the timer circuit 217 in timer mode, register setting for permitting interrupt generation, register setting for specifying an interrupt vector, and the like are performed. The register initial value corresponding to the timer interrupt generation interval (for example, 1 millisecond) may be set.

  Following the process of step S404, the RAM 216 is set to an accessible state (step S405), and the RAM 216 is cleared (step S406). At this time, a signal output timer provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 216 or a register separate from the RAM 216 is cleared and initialized (step S407). As an example, the detection signal output timer provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 216 is cleared, and the timer value is initialized to “0”. The detection signal output timer is used to measure the output time of a payout detection signal indicating that a predetermined number (for example, 10) of prize balls has been detected. By clearing the detection signal output timer when the power is turned on in the pachinko machine 1, a predetermined number of payout detection signals that were being output immediately before the power is turned off are not continuously output after the power is turned on again. It is possible to prevent the payout detection signal based on the detection of the prize ball payout once being divided before and after power-off and being externally output twice.

  Subsequent to the processing in step S406, initial values are set in a work area flag, counter, and the like in the RAM 216 (step S408). Also, the serial communication circuit 218 is initialized (step S409). In this case, the CPU 214 sets data stored in a predetermined area of the ROM 215 in the serial communication circuit 218 in accordance with the serial communication circuit setting program, thereby causing the serial communication circuit 218 to serially communicate with the game control microcomputer 100. Set up. Then, after permitting the interrupt (step S408), the process enters a loop process for monitoring the occurrence of the timer interrupt.

  When a timer interrupt occurs in the payout control microcomputer 150 after the interrupt is permitted in this way, the CPU 214 executes a predetermined timer interrupt process. FIG. 33 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a payout control timer interrupt process executed by the CPU 214.

  In the payout control timer interrupt process shown in FIG. 33, the CPU 214 first executes a switch check process (step S421). In the switch check process, the states (on / off) of the payout count switch 72 and the error release switch 73 are confirmed based on the input of the input port 1. Subsequently, an input determination process is executed (step S422). In the input determination process, the state (ON / OFF) of the input port 0 is detected, and the detection result is reflected in a sensor input state flag provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 216.

  After executing the input determination process, a prepaid card unit control process is executed (step S423). The prepaid card unit control process is a process for communicating with a predetermined card unit. In addition, the CPU 214 executes main control communication processing (step S424). The main control communication process is a process for communicating with the game control microcomputer 100 of the main board 11. Following the main control communication process, a payout control process is executed (step S425). In the payout control process, control for paying out a lent ball in response to a ball lending request by a predetermined card unit and control for paying out the number of prize balls designated by the prize ball number command from the main board 11 are performed.

  After executing the payout control process, the payout motor control process is executed (step S426). The payout motor control process is a process for outputting a drive signal for operating the payout motor 51. Also, payout-side error processing is executed (step S427). Then, a prepaid card unit error control process is executed (step S428). Following the prepaid card unit error control process, a payout information output process is executed (step S429). In the payout information output process, a process for externally outputting a payout detection signal via the main board 11 and a process for externally outputting a gaming machine error state signal are executed.

  After executing the payout information output process, the payout display control process is executed (step S430). The payout display control process is a process for controlling the display operation of the error display LED 74 in accordance with the error state on the payout control board 15. Thereafter, a payout side output process is executed (step S431). In the payout side output process, the output port of the external bus interface 219 is set according to the bit value of the information buffer provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 216.

  FIG. 34 is a flowchart showing an example of processing executed in step S424 of FIG. 33 as main control communication processing. In the main control communication process shown in FIG. 34, the CPU 214 first determines whether or not a connection error has occurred (step S501). In the process of step S501, for example, it may be confirmed whether or not a connection signal output from the main board 11 is input.

  If no connection error has occurred in step S501 (step S501; No), it is determined whether a serial communication error has occurred (step S502). In the process of step S502, for example, it may be confirmed whether the reception error flag is set in the status register of the serial communication circuit 218. For example, if a flag indicating a parity error, framing error, noise error, overrun error, or idle line error is set in the status register of the serial communication circuit 218, it is determined that the serial communication circuit 218 is in a reception error state. To do.

  When a connection error occurs in step S501 (step S501; Yes), or when a serial communication error occurs in step S502 (step S502; Yes), settings are made when a communication error with the main board 11 occurs. (Step S503), the main control communication process is terminated. In the process of step S503, for example, the receiving circuit in the serial communication circuit 218 is initialized and a predetermined error flag is set to an on state.

  If no serial communication error has occurred in step S502 (step S502; No), it is determined whether there is a received command (step S504). In the process of step S504, for example, the reception data buffer of the serial communication circuit 218 is read to check whether there is a reception command. If there is no reception command (step S504; No), the main control communication process is terminated. If there is a reception command (step S504; Yes), the reception command is acquired from the serial communication circuit 218 and stored in, for example, a payout-side reception buffer provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 216 (step S505).

  Following the process of step S505, it is determined whether or not the connection confirmation flag is on (step S506). The connection confirmation flag is set to the on state by the process of step S509 described later in response to the reception of the connection confirmation command transmitted from the main board 11. When the connection confirmation flag is off (step S506; No), it is determined whether or not a connection confirmation command has been received (step S507). At this time, if no connection confirmation command is received (step S507; No), the main control communication process is terminated.

  If a connection confirmation command is received in step S507 (step S507; Yes), control is performed to transmit a connection OK command from the payout control board 15 to the main board 11 (step S508). Then, the connection confirmation flag is set to the on state (step S509). Further, a predetermined main control communication control time (for example, 1050 milliseconds) is set (step S510). When the game control microcomputer 100 on the main board 11 receives the connection OK command transmitted from the payout control microcomputer 150, it transmits a connection confirmation command every time one second elapses. In the payout control microcomputer 150, if the next connection confirmation command cannot be received even after the main control communication control time elapses, reception of the award ball number command etc. is invalidated and control is made to wait for the recovery of the communication state. To do.

  If the connection confirmation flag is on in step S506 (step S506; Yes), it is determined whether or not the main control communication control time has elapsed (step S511). When the main control communication control time has elapsed (step S511; Yes), the connection confirmation flag is cleared and turned off (step S512), and the main control communication process is terminated. If the main control communication control time has not elapsed (step S511; No), it is determined whether or not a prize ball number command has been received (step S513). If no prize ball number command is received (step S513; No), the main control communication process is terminated.

  When a prize ball number command is received in step S513 (step S514; Yes), setting for starting prize ball payout control is performed (step S514). In the process of step S514, for example, the number of winning balls designated by the winning ball number command is set in the unpaid-out number counter. The unpaid-out number counter is a counter for counting the number of unpaid out prize balls and rental balls. In addition, in response to receiving the prize ball number command, control for transmitting a prize ball number acceptance command to the main board 11 is performed. If a prize ball payout operation is not completed even after one second has passed after the prize ball number acceptance command is sent, a prize ball preparation command is sent.

  FIG. 35 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing executed in step S429 of FIG. 33 as the payout information output processing. In the payout information output process shown in FIG. 35, the CPU 214 first determines whether or not a ball lending payout operation is in progress (step S521). In the process of step S521, for example, whether or not the ball lending / dispensing operation is being performed by checking whether or not the designated bit during ball lending / dispensing operation of the payout control state flag provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 216 is set. Can be determined. When the ball lending payout operation is in progress (step S521; Yes), the payout information output process is terminated.

  If it is determined in step S521 that the ball lending / dispensing operation is not in progress (step S521; No), it is determined whether or not the detection signal from the payout count switch 72 is on (step S522). When the payout count switch 72 is turned on (step S522; Yes), 1 is added to the number of prize balls paid out (step S523). In the process of step S523, for example, the prize ball payout number count value, which is a stored value of a prize ball payout number counter provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 216, may be updated so as to be incremented by one.

  Following the processing of step S523, it is determined whether or not the number of prize balls to be paid has reached a predetermined payout detection determination value (eg, “10”) (step S524). When the winning ball payout number reaches the payout detection determination value (step S524; Yes), the winning ball payout number is updated so that a predetermined number (for example, “10”) is subtracted (step S525). Further, the number of remaining detection signal outputs is updated to add 1 (step S526). In the processing of step S526, for example, the detection signal output remaining number buffer value stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 216 may be incremented by one.

  If the payout count switch 72 is off in step S522 (step S522; No), the award ball payout number has not reached the payout detection determination value in step S524 (step S524; No), or in step S526 After executing the processing, it is determined whether or not the detection signal output timer value is “0” (step S527). The detection signal output timer value is stored in, for example, a predetermined area of the RAM 216, and an initial value is set by processing in step S531 described later. If the detection signal output timer value is not “0” (step S527; No), the timer value is updated so as to be decremented by 1 (step S528).

  If the detection signal output timer value is “0” in step S527 (step S527; Yes), it is determined whether or not the remaining number of detection signal outputs is “0” (step S529). If the remaining number of detection signal outputs is “0” (step S529; Yes), the payout information output process is terminated. If the remaining number of detection signal outputs is other than “0” (step S529; No), the value is updated so that 1 is subtracted (step S530). Then, a predetermined timer initial value corresponding to the output time (for example, 1 second) of the payout detection signal is set in the detection signal output timer (step S531).

  After either of the processes of steps S528 and S531, the payout detection signal output control, for example, sets the payout detection signal output bit position of the information buffer (bit 7 of the output port 1 in the example shown in FIG. 17). Is performed (step S532). In this way, the payout detection signal is output from the output port 1 (becomes on).

  When the detection signal output timer value is decremented by 1 in step S528, if the timer value becomes “0”, the next timer interrupt process is executed to execute the process of step S529, and the detection signal output If the remaining number is other than “0”, the payout detection signal is continuously output to the outside. That is, when a prize ball payout using a predetermined number (for example, 10) of game balls as a prize is continuously detected, the external output time of the payout detection signal is extended. Therefore, for example, in an external device such as a hall computer, it is possible to specify the number of times that a predetermined number of prize ball payouts are continuously detected from the length of time that the payout detection signal is on.

  The payout detection signal is temporarily turned off until a predetermined signal output waiting time elapses without being limited to extending the external output time of the payout detection signal when a predetermined number of winning ball payouts are continuously detected. You may make it be in a state. In this case, for example, when the timer value after subtraction in step S528 becomes “0”, the signal output standby time is set, and the timer value is “0” in step S527 until the time elapses. Even if it determines with it, what is necessary is just to complete | finish the payout information output process, without performing the process of step S529.

  Next, the operation in the effect control board 12 will be described. In the effect control board 12, when the power supply voltage is supplied from the power supply board 10, the effect control microcomputer 120 is activated, and the effect control main process as shown in the flowchart of FIG. 36 is executed by the CPU 120A.

  When the effect control main process shown in FIG. 36 is started, the CPU 120A first executes a predetermined initialization process (step S71), clears the effect control RAM, sets various initial values, and sets the effect control board 12 to the effect control board 12. Performs register settings for the mounted CTC (counter / timer circuit).

  Thereafter, it is determined whether or not the timer interrupt flag is on (step S72). The timer interrupt flag is provided, for example, in a predetermined area of the effect control RAM, and is set to an on state every time a predetermined time (for example, 2 milliseconds) elapses based on the register setting of the CTC. At this time, if the timer interrupt flag is off (step S72; No), the process of step S72 is repeatedly executed and waits.

  If the timer interrupt flag is on in step S72 (step S72; Yes), the timer interrupt flag is cleared and turned off (step S73), and command analysis processing is executed (step S74). In the command analysis processing executed in step S74, for example, various effect control commands transmitted from the game control microcomputer 100 of the main board 11 and stored in the effect control side reception buffer are read out and then read out. Settings and control corresponding to the effect control command made are performed.

  After executing the command analysis process in step S74, an effect control process is executed (step S75). In the effect control process in step S75, for example, an effect image display operation on the screen of the image display device 5, an audio output operation from the speakers 8L and 8R, a lighting operation in a light emitter such as the game effect lamp 9 and the decoration LED, etc. With respect to the control content of the rendering operation using various rendering devices, determination, determination, setting, and the like according to the rendering control command transmitted from the main board 11 are performed.

  Following the effect control process in step S75, an effect random number update process is executed (step S76), and numerical data indicating a random value counted by a predetermined random counter is used as effect random numbers for effect control. Update with Thereafter, the process returns to step S72.

  FIG. 37 is a flowchart showing an example of the process executed in step S75 of FIG. 36 as the effect control process. In this effect control process, the CPU 120A of the effect control microcomputer 120 selects one of the following processes in steps S180 to S187 according to, for example, the value of the effect process flag provided in a predetermined area of the effect control RAM. Select and execute.

  The variable display start waiting process in step S180 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “0”. In the variable display start waiting process, whether or not to start variable display of decorative symbols on the image display device 5 based on whether the first variation start command or the second variation start command from the main board 11 is received. The process etc. which determine are included.

  The variable display start setting process in step S181 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “1”. This variable display start setting process corresponds to the start of variable display of special symbols in the special symbol game by the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B, and the decorative symbols in the image display device 5 In order to perform various display operations and other various presentation operations, a process of determining a fixed decorative design and a production control pattern according to the variation pattern of the special design, the type of display result, and the like is included.

  The variable display effect process in step S182 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “2”. In the variable display effect process, the CPU 120A executes effect control such as display control data, sound control data, lamp control data, and effect model control data from the effect control pattern corresponding to the timer value in a predetermined effect control process timer. Read data. In accordance with the presentation control execution data read at this time, for example, a display control signal to be transmitted to the VDP 121 and various commands to be transmitted to the sound control board 13 and the lamp control board 14 are determined. By outputting various signals based on these determination results, various effect controls during execution of the special game using various effect devices such as the image display device 5, the speakers 8L and 8R, the game effect lamp 9 and the decoration LED. Is done. Then, when the end code is read from the effect control pattern, a predetermined display pattern that is a variable display result of the decoration pattern is displayed by transmitting a predetermined display control signal to the VDP 121, or the special figure game is ended. Effect images corresponding to are displayed.

  The special figure waiting process in step S183 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “3”. In this special figure waiting process, the CPU 120A determines whether or not a big hit start designation command or a small hit start designation command transmitted from the main board 11 has been received. When the big hit start designation command is received, the value of the effect process flag is updated to “6” which is a value corresponding to the big hit effect processing. On the other hand, when the small hit start designation command is received, the value of the effect process flag is updated to “4”, which is a value corresponding to the small hit medium effect process. Further, when the production control process timer times out without receiving the big hit start designation command or the small hit start designation command, it is determined that the special figure display result in the special figure game is “lost”, and the production process flag is set. The value is updated to “0” which is an initial value.

  The small hitting effect process in step S184 is a process executed when the value of the effect control process flag is “4”. In the small hitting effect process, the CPU 120A performs output control of various commands to the VDP 121, the sound control board 13, the lamp control board 14, and the like based on the effect control execution data read from the predetermined effect control pattern. Thereby, various effect control in a small hit game state is performed using various effect devices. In addition, in the small hit effect processing, in response to receiving the small hit end designation command from the main board 11, the value of the effect process flag is updated to “5” which is a value corresponding to the small hit end effect processing. To do.

  The small hit end effect process in step S185 is a process executed when the value of the effect control process flag is “5”. In this small hit end effect process, the CPU 120A controls the output of various signals to the VDP 121, the sound control board 13, the lamp control board 14, and the like based on the effect control execution data read from the predetermined effect control pattern. As a result, various effect controls at the end of the small hit gaming state are performed using various effect devices. Thereafter, the value of the effect process flag is updated to “0” which is an initial value.

  The big hit effect process in step S186 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “6”. In the big hit effect processing, the CPU 120A controls output of various signals to the VDP 121, the sound control board 13, the lamp control board 14, and the like based on the effect control execution data read from the predetermined effect control pattern. Thereby, various effect control in a big hit game state is performed using various effect devices. Then, in response to receiving a jackpot end designation command from the main board 11, the value of the effect process flag is updated to “7” which is a value corresponding to the ending effect process.

  The ending effect process in step S187 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “7”. In this ending effect process, the CPU 120A controls output of various signals to the VDP 121, the sound control board 13, the lamp control board 14, and the like based on the effect control execution data read from the predetermined effect control pattern. Thereby, various effect control at the time of the end of the big hit gaming state is performed using various effect devices. Thereafter, the value of the effect process flag is updated to “0” which is an initial value.

  FIG. 38 is a flowchart showing an example of the process executed in step S183 of FIG. 37 as the special figure waiting process. In the special figure waiting process shown in FIG. 38, the CPU 120A first determines whether or not the hitting start command reception waiting time has elapsed (step S601). The winning start designation command reception waiting time is set for a predetermined time in accordance with reception of a decorative symbol stop command in the variable display effect processing in step S182 shown in FIG.

  When the hit start designation command reception waiting time has not elapsed in step S601 (step S601; No), it is determined whether or not a big hit start designation command transmitted from the main board 11 has been received (step S602). . If the jackpot start designation command is received (step S602; Yes), the value of the effect process flag is updated to “6” which is a value corresponding to the effect processing during the jackpot (step S603). At this time, it is determined whether or not “surprise” is designated as the big hit type by the big hit start designation command (step S604).

  When other than “surprise probability” is designated as the big hit type in step S604 (step S604; No), a big hit notification effect control pattern prepared in advance to notify the start of the big hit gaming state is selected, The usage pattern is set (step S605). Thereafter, settings for starting control of the big hit notification operation are performed based on the production control execution data read from the production control pattern set as the usage pattern (step S606). Also, the first right-handed instruction notification is set (step S607). The instruction notification setting at this time is, for example, the first right of starting the control for executing the predetermined effect operation by setting the effect control pattern prepared in advance to execute the first right-handed instruction notification as the use pattern. What is necessary is just the start setting of the hit instruction notification. Such right-handed instruction notification setting may be stored in a predetermined area of the effect control RAM until a predetermined end setting (see step S674 in FIG. 42) is executed.

  The first right-handed instruction notification may be the right-handed instruction notification AR1 by displaying an effect image as shown in FIG. 39A on the screen of the image display device 5, for example. The right-handed instruction notification AR1 displays, for example, a message with characters such as “Please make a right-hand!” Or an effect image indicating a right-pointing arrow in a predetermined opaque display color (for example, red), thereby playing the game ball As long as it is notified to the player in the first right-handed notification mode that the game should be launched into the right game area 2B. Instead of displaying the effect image on the image display device 5 or together with the display of the effect image, the sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R, the lighting operation of the light emitter such as the game effect lamp 9 and the decoration LED, etc. The strike instruction notification AR1 may be performed. In the right-handed instruction notification AR1 according to the first right-handed notification mode, it is only necessary to clearly notify the player that the game ball should be launched into the right game area 2B.

  If no big hit start designation command is received in step S602 (step S602; No), it is determined whether a small hit start designation command has been received (step S608). If no small hit start designation command is received (step S608; No), the special figure waiting process is terminated and the process waits until the hit start designation command reception waiting time elapses. When the small hit start designation command is received (step S608; Yes), the value of the production process flag is updated to “4” which is a value corresponding to the small hit medium production process (step S609).

  When “surprise” is specified as the big hit type in step S604 (step S604; Yes), after executing the process of step S609, it is determined whether or not there is a setting for the first right-handed instruction notification ( Step S609A). At this time, for example, if the setting of the right-handed instruction notification AR1 is stored in a predetermined area of the effect control RAM, it may be determined that the first right-handed instruction notification is set. If there is a setting for the first right-handed instruction notification (step S609A; Yes), the return designation of the first right-handed instruction notification is performed (step S609B). As an example, the first right-turn instruction notification return may be specified by setting a first notification return specification flag provided in a predetermined area of the effect control RAM to an ON state. During execution of short-time control, when the special figure display result is “big hit” and the big hit type is “surprise” and it is controlled to the 2 round big hit state, or the special figure display result becomes “small hit” and the game is controlled to the small hit gaming state. In this case, even after the two-round big hit state or the small hit game state ends, the gaming state (high base state) in which the time-shortening control is performed is obtained. Corresponding to such a situation, the return designation may be performed by the process of step S609B so that the first right-handed instruction notification can be performed after the end of the two round big hit state or the small hit game state.

  If there is no first right-handed instruction notification setting in step S609A (step S609A; No), or after performing the process of step S609B, it is prepared in advance to notify that the effect mode shifts to mode C. An effect control pattern for mode change is selected and set as a use pattern (step S610). When the effect mode has already shifted to mode C, an effect control pattern for mode continuation prepared in advance to notify that mode C continues may be set as the use pattern. Thereafter, setting for starting control of the mode transition notification operation is performed based on the presentation control execution data read from the presentation control pattern set as the usage pattern (step S611). Also, the second right-handed instruction notification is set (step S612). The instruction notification setting at this time is, for example, the second right such that control for executing a predetermined effect operation is started by setting an effect control pattern prepared in advance to execute the second right-handed instruction notification. What is necessary is just the start setting of the hit instruction notification.

  The second right-handed instruction notification may be a right-handed instruction notification AR2 by displaying an effect image as shown in FIG. 39B on the screen of the image display device 5, for example. The right-handed instruction notification AR2 indicates that the game ball should be launched into the right game area 2B by displaying, for example, an effect image showing a right-pointing arrow in a substantially transparent state. What is necessary is just to alert | report to a player by the 2nd right-handed alerting | reporting aspect different from a hit alerting | reporting aspect. Instead of displaying the effect image on the image display device 5, the right-handed instruction notification AR2 may be performed by sound output or lighting operation of the light emitter, but this is not a clear notification like the right-handed instruction notification AR1. It is sufficient that notification that the player cannot recognize or is difficult to recognize is performed.

  When the hit start designation command reception waiting time has elapsed in step S601 (step S601; Yes), for example, by confirming an effect mode flag provided in a predetermined area of the effect control RAM, the current effect mode Is specified (step S613). Then, it is determined whether or not the specified production mode is the mode N as the normal mode (step S614). If the effect mode is other than mode N (step S614; No), it is determined whether or not to end the mode transition to the effect mode (step S615). In the process of step S615, for example, when the production mode is mode A or mode B, it may be determined that the mode transition is terminated in response to the completion of the time reduction control. Further, when the production mode is mode C, when the predetermined condition is satisfied, for example, the elapsed time after the production mode has shifted to mode C has reached a predetermined time, the mode transition is terminated. It may be determined. When it is determined to end the mode transition in this way (step S615; Yes), for example, a setting for returning the effect mode to mode N, such as updating the value of the effect mode flag to a value corresponding to mode N, is performed. This is performed (step S616).

  When the production mode is mode N in step S614 (step S614; Yes), when it is determined not to end the mode transition in step S615 (step S615; No), or after executing the process of step S616. After clearing the effect process flag and initializing its value to “0” (step S617), the waiting process per special figure is terminated.

  FIG. 40A is a flowchart showing an example of processing executed in step S185 of FIG. 37 as the small hit end effect processing. In the small hitting end effect process shown in FIG. 40A, the CPU 120A first determines whether or not the small hitting end effect flag is on (step S631). The small hitting end effect flag is set to the ON state by the process of step S634 described later in response to the start of the small hitting end effect.

  If the small hitting end effect flag is OFF in step S631 (step S631; No), a predetermined small hitting end effect time is set (step S632). Then, the start setting of the small hit end effect is performed (step S633). In the process of step S633, an effect control pattern for the small hit end effect prepared in advance for executing the small hit end effect is selected and set as a use pattern. After that, it is only necessary to perform start control of the effect operation that becomes the small hit end effect based on the effect control execution data read from the effect control pattern set as the usage pattern. At this time, the small hitting end effect flag is set to the on state (step S634), and then the small hitting end effect process is ended.

  When the small hit end effect flag is on in step S631 (step S631; Yes), it is determined whether or not the small hit end effect time has elapsed (step S635). If the small hit end effect time has not elapsed (step S635; No), after controlling the effect operation that becomes the small hit end effect (step S636), the small hit end effect process is ended. When the small hit end effect time has elapsed (step S635; Yes), the small hit end effect flag is cleared and turned off (step S637). In addition, a setting for shifting the effect mode after the end of the small hit is performed (step S638). Then, after clearing the effect process flag and initializing its value to “0” (step S639), the small hit end effect process is terminated.

  FIG. 40B shows a transition setting example of the effect mode in step S638. In this transition setting example, the transition destination production mode is set depending on whether the production mode before entering the small hit gaming state is any one of mode A, mode C, and mode N and mode B. doing. That is, when the effect mode before the small hit is any one of mode A, mode C, and mode N, the effect mode at the transition destination is set to mode C. On the other hand, when the small hit effect mode is mode B, the transition destination mode is set to mode B. After the end of the small hit gaming state, the game state before the small hit gaming state is continued. When the effect mode is effect mode B, the player is informed so that the player can recognize that the time change control with time reduction and the probability change control are both performed. Therefore, when the effect mode is mode B, the effect mode is not changed before and after the small hit gaming state, and the state is shifted to mode B as it is.

  FIG. 41 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process executed in step S187 of FIG. 37 as the ending effect process. In the ending effect process shown in FIG. 41, the CPU 120A first determines whether or not the ending effect flag is on (step S651). The ending effect flag is set to the on state by the process of step S654 described later in response to the start of the ending effect.

  If the ending effect flag is OFF in step S651 (step S651; No), a predetermined ending effect time is set (step S652). Then, the start setting of the ending effect is performed (step S652). In the process of step S652, an effect control pattern for an ending effect prepared in advance for executing the ending effect is selected and set as a use pattern. After that, it is only necessary to perform start control of the rendering operation serving as the ending effect based on the rendering control execution data read from the rendering control pattern set as the usage pattern. When the big hit type is “surprise”, the production operation based on the production control pattern may be controlled so that the production operation similar to the small hit end production is performed. At this time, the ending effect flag is set to the on state (step S654), and then the ending effect process is ended.

  If the ending effect flag is on in step S651 (step S651; Yes), it is determined whether or not the ending effect time has elapsed (step S655). If the ending effect time has not elapsed (step S655; No), the ending effect process is terminated after controlling the effect operation as the ending effect (step S656). When the ending effect time has elapsed (step S655; Yes), the ending effect flag is cleared and turned off (step S657). Also, a setting is made to shift the effect mode after the big hit (step S658). Then, the effect process flag is cleared and its value is initialized to “0” (step S659), and then the ending effect process ends.

  FIG. 41B shows an example of transition setting of the effect mode in step S658. In this transition setting example, the transition destination production mode is set according to the jackpot type, the presentation mode before the big hit gaming state, or the like. For example, in response to the end of the 15 round big hit state corresponding to the case where the big hit type is “non-probable change” or “first positive change” (when there is no probability change notification), regardless of the production mode before the big hit gaming state, The transition destination production mode is mode A. Corresponding to the end of the 15 round big hit state corresponding to the case where the big hit type is “second probability change” or “third probability change” (with probability change notification), regardless of the production mode before the big hit gaming state, The effect mode at the transition destination is mode B.

  When the big hit type is “surprise”, the transition destination depends on whether the presentation mode before the big hit gaming state is one of mode A, mode C, or mode N and mode B. The production mode is different. That is, when the effect mode before the big hit is any one of mode A, mode C, and mode N, the transition destination effect mode is set to mode C. On the other hand, when the effect mode before the big hit is mode B, the effect mode at the transition destination is set to mode B. After the end of the two-round big hit state corresponding to the case where the big hit type is “surprise”, the probability variation control is performed, while the control before the big hit is continued for the short time control. When the effect mode is effect mode B, the player is informed so that the player can recognize that the time change control with time reduction and the probability change control are both performed. Therefore, when the effect mode is mode B, the effect mode is not changed before and after the big hit gaming state, and the state may be changed to the mode B as it is. The transition setting when the big hit type is “surprise” is the same as the transition setting when the small hit gaming state is set. Therefore, the player determines whether the variable display result is “big hit” and the big hit type is “surprise” or the variable display result is “small hit”. It is impossible or difficult to recognize from.

  When the first right-handed instruction notification is started by the process of step S607 shown in FIG. 38, or when the second right-handed instruction notification is started by the process of step S612, the right-handed instruction notification AR1 and the right-handed instruction notification AR2 May be stored in a predetermined area of the effect control RAM incorporated in the effect control microcomputer 120, for example. Based on the stored settings related to the right-handed instruction notification, the optimal game ball launch position (target launch position) changes from the right game area 2B (second game area) to the left game area 2A (first game area). When this is done, the player may be notified that the game ball should be launched into the left game area 2A. In order to perform such notification, for example, a firing region notification determination process shown in the flowchart of FIG. 42 may be executed. This firing region notification determination process may be executed, for example, in the variable display start waiting process in step S180 shown in FIG.

  In the firing region notification determination process shown in FIG. 42, the CPU 120A first determines whether there is a setting for right-handed instruction notification (step S671). At this time, for example, if the setting of right-handed instruction notification AR1 or right-handed instruction notification AR2 is stored in a predetermined area of the effect control RAM, it may be determined that there is a setting of right-handed instruction notification.

  If there is a setting for right-handed instruction notification in step S671 (step S671; Yes), a background image corresponding to a low base state such as a normal state in which the high opening control associated with the short-time control is not performed or a short-time probability change state is displayed. It is determined whether or not a designated background designation command has been received (step S672). For example, the background designation command is transmitted from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12 in step S250 shown in FIG. 24, step S264 shown in FIG. 25, or step S298 shown in FIG. Any setting may be used.

  If a background designation command corresponding to the low base state is received in step S672 (step S672; Yes), the stored right-handed instruction notification setting is set to the right-handed instruction notification. It is determined whether or not the instruction notification AR1 is set (step S673). If the setting of the first right-handed instruction notification is stored (step S673; Yes), the end setting of the first right-handed instruction notification is performed (step S674). In addition, it is not limited to what continues performing the right hand instruction | indication notification AR1 used as 1st right hand instruction | indication notification until the process of step S674 is performed, The elapsed time after the notification start is set to predetermined time. When a predetermined first right-handed notification end condition is satisfied, such as when the right-handed notification is reached, the right-handed instruction notification AR1 serving as the first right-handed notification notification may be ended. Subsequent to the process of step S674, the first left hand instruction notification is set (step S675). The instruction notification setting at this time is, for example, a first left setting in which an effect control pattern prepared in advance for executing the first left-handed instruction notification is set as a use pattern and control for executing a predetermined effect operation is started. What is necessary is just the start setting of the hit instruction notification. Such a left-handed instruction notification setting may be stored in a predetermined area of the effect control RAM until a predetermined end setting (see step S682) is executed.

  The first left-handed instruction notification may be a left-handed instruction notification AL1 by displaying an effect image as shown in FIG. 43A on the screen of the image display device 5, for example. The left-handed instruction notification AL1 displays, for example, a message with characters such as “Return to left-handed!” Or an effect image showing a left-pointing arrow in an opaque predetermined display color (for example, red), thereby playing the game ball As long as it is notified to the player in the first left-handed notification mode that the player should be fired in the left game area 2A. Note that, instead of displaying the effect image on the image display device 5 or together with the display of the effect image, the sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R, the lighting operation of the light emitter such as the game effect lamp 9 and the decoration LED, etc. The strike instruction notification AL1 may be performed. In the left-handed instruction notification AR1 in the first left-handed notification mode, it is only necessary to clearly notify the player that the game ball should be launched into the left game area 2A.

  When the setting in step S675 is performed, a notification end condition corresponding to the first left hand instruction notification is set (step S676). The notification end condition set at this time is that the elapsed time from the start of notification reaches a predetermined first notification end determination time (for example, 1 minute), or the number of executions of variable display is a predetermined first notification end determination number of times. It may be a first left-handed notification end condition determined in advance corresponding to the first left-handed instruction notification, such as having reached (for example, “3”).

  When the setting of the first right-handed instruction notification is not stored in step S673 (step S673; No), the second right-handed instruction notification is set to end (step S677). In addition, it is not limited to what continues performing right-handed instruction | indication AR2 used as 2nd right-handed instruction | indication notification until the process of step S677 is performed, The elapsed time after the notification start is set to predetermined time. When a predetermined second right-handed notification end condition is satisfied, such as when the right-handed notification is reached, the right-handed instruction notification AR2 serving as the second right-handed notification notification may be ended.

  The second right-handed notification end condition is shorter than the first right-handed notification end condition, for example, the elapsed time from the start of notification is established in a shorter time than the first right-handed notification end condition. Anything is acceptable. Both the second right-handed notification end condition and the first right-handed notification end condition may be satisfied at the end of the big hit gaming state or the small hit gaming state. Even in this case, the second right-handed instruction notification is performed when a two-round big hit state or a small hit gaming state is entered. Therefore, the second right-handed notification end condition can be established in a shorter time than the first right-handed notification end condition. Thus, the right-handed instruction notification AR2 that is the second right-handed instruction notification only needs to be shorter than the right-handed instruction notification AR1 that is the first right-handed instruction notification. Subsequent to the process of step S677, the second left-handed instruction notification is set (step S678). The instruction notification setting at this time is, for example, the second left setting in which an effect control pattern prepared in advance for executing the second left-handed instruction notification is set as a use pattern and control for executing a predetermined effect operation is started. What is necessary is just the start setting of the hit instruction notification.

  The second left hand instruction notification may be the left hand instruction notification AL2 by displaying an effect image as shown in FIG. 43B on the screen of the image display device 5, for example. The left-handed instruction notification AL2 indicates that the game ball should be launched into the left game area 2A by displaying, for example, an effect image showing a left-pointing arrow in a substantially transparent state. What is necessary is just to be alert | reported to a player by the 2nd left strike alerting | reporting aspect different from a hit alerting | reporting aspect. Instead of displaying the effect image on the image display device 5, the left-handed instruction notification AL2 may be performed by sound output or lighting operation of the light emitter, but this is not a clear notification like the left-handed instruction notification AL1. It is sufficient that notification that the player cannot recognize or is difficult to recognize is performed.

  When the setting in step S678 is performed, a notification end condition corresponding to the second left-handed instruction notification is set (step S679). The notification end condition set at this time is that the elapsed time from the notification start has reached a predetermined second notification end determination time (for example, 10 seconds) different from the first notification end determination time, or the number of executions of variable display Has reached a predetermined second notification end determination number of times (for example, “1”) different from the first notification end determination number of times, for example, the second left-hand notification notification end determined in advance corresponding to the second left-handed instruction notification Any condition is acceptable. Here, for example, the second left-end notification end condition is set such that the second notification end determination time is set shorter than the first notification end determination time, or the second notification end determination number is less than the first notification end determination number. By setting it to be small, it is sufficient if it is established in a shorter period than the first left-hand notification end condition.

  If there is no right-handed instruction notification setting in step S671 (step S671; No), it is determined whether there is a left-handed instruction notification setting (step S680). If there is no left-handed instruction notification setting (step S680; No), the firing region notification determination process is terminated. If there is a left-handed instruction notification setting (step S680; Yes), it is determined whether a left-handed instruction notification end condition is satisfied (step S681). If the notification end condition is not satisfied (step S681; No), the firing region notification determination process is ended. If the notification end condition is satisfied (step S681; Yes), the left-handed instruction notification end setting is performed (step S682).

  The second left-handed notification end condition corresponding to the left-handed instruction notification AL2 serving as the second left-handed instruction notification is more than the first left-handed notification end condition corresponding to the left-handed instruction notification AL1 serving as the first left-handed instruction notification. Established in a short period. Therefore, the left-hand instruction notification AL2 that is the second left-hand instruction notification has a shorter notification time than the left-hand instruction notification AL1 that is the first left-hand instruction notification.

  If no background designation command corresponding to the low base state is received in step S672 (step S672; No), it is determined whether there is a return designation for the first right-handed instruction notification (step S683). For example, when the first notification return designation flag is ON, it may be determined that there is a return designation for the first right-handed instruction notification. If there is a return designation for the first right-handed instruction notification (step S683; Yes), the first right-handed instruction notification is set (step S684). The instruction notification setting at this time restarts the first right-handed instruction notification such as, for example, setting the production control pattern for the first right-handed instruction notification to the use pattern and starting control to execute a predetermined production operation. For example, the return setting may be used for returning. Thereby, in the case of being controlled to the two round big hit state or the small hit game state during execution of the time reduction control, in correspondence with the game state (high base state) in which the time reduction control is performed even after the end of these, The first right-handed instruction notification can be resumed. Note that the processes in steps S683 and S684 are not limited to those executed in the firing area notification determination process, and for example, the small hit end effect time in the small hit end effect process (see FIG. 40A, etc.). It may be executed when the time has elapsed and when the ending effect time has elapsed in the ending effect process (see FIG. 41A, etc.). Further, when the process of step S684 is executed, for example, the first right return instruction notification return specification may be initialized (erased) by clearing the first notification return specification flag and turning it off.

  If the return designation of the first right-hand instruction notification is not specified in step S683, the launch region notification determination process is terminated without executing the process of step S684. At this time, since the background designation command corresponding to the low base state has not been received in step S672, the high base state such as the short time state in which the high opening control associated with the short time control is performed or the short timed change state is set. Here, when the right hit instruction notification setting is stored in response to the start of the big hit gaming state or the small hit gaming state, and then when the high hit state is controlled after the big hit gaming state or the small hit gaming state is finished. The setting of the right hand instruction notification is continuously stored. As a result, not only when the big prize opening is changed between the open state (first state) and the closed state (second state) in the big hit game state or the small hit game state, the high open control is performed together with the time reduction control. Even when the game ball easily passes (enters) the second start winning opening in the high base state and the second start condition is easily established, the optimal launch position (launch target position) of the game ball within the game area ) Is a right game area 2B, and a right-handed instruction notification can be performed. However, even when the setting of right-handed instruction notification is stored, if a predetermined notification end condition is satisfied, such as when the elapsed time since the start of notification has reached a predetermined time, The right-handed instruction notification may be terminated.

  FIG. 44 shows various signal output examples and launch area notifications when the special symbol variable display result is “big hit” and the big hit type is “non-probable change” or “first positive change” to “third positive change”. It is a timing diagram which shows the example of operation. Note that the launch area notification is to notify the player of the game area where the game ball is to be fired, and a right-handed instruction notification AR1 serving as a first right-handed instruction notification and a right-handed instruction serving as a second right-handed instruction notification. An instruction notification AR2, a left-handed instruction notification AL1 serving as a first left-handed instruction notification, and a left-handed instruction notification AL2 serving as a second left-handed instruction notification are included.

  When the variable display result is “big hit”, the big hit type is controlled to the 15 round big hit state based on any of “non-probability change” or “first probability change” to “third probability change”. In response to the start of the big hit gaming state in this manner, for example, by the processing of steps S174 and S175 shown in FIG. 31, the big hit signal changes from the off state to the on state as shown in FIG. That is, the external output of the big hit signal is started. At this time, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “4” by the process of step S290 shown in FIG. Then, it is determined in the process of step S171 shown in FIG. 31 that the value of the special figure process flag is “4” or more, and the process of steps S173 and S175 specifies the launch position as shown in FIG. The signal changes from the off state to the on state. That is, external output of the launch position designation signal is started. Also, by the process of step S607 shown in FIG. 38, as shown in FIG. 44D, a right-handed instruction notification AR1 that is a first right-handed instruction notification is started.

  Thereafter, in response to the end of the big hit gaming state, as shown in FIG. 44A, the big hit middle signal changes from the on state to the off state. That is, the external output of the big hit signal ends. At this time, in response to the start of time reduction control after the end of the 15 round big hit state, the time reduction signal is turned off as shown in FIG. 44 (B) by the processing of steps S174 and S175 shown in FIG. 31, for example. Change from state to on. That is, the external output of the time reduction signal is started. When the special figure game is executed after the end of the 15th round big hit state, it is determined in the process of step S171 shown in FIG. 31 that the value of the special figure process flag is less than “4”, but the process of step S172 is performed. When it is determined that the time reduction control is being performed, the launch position designation signal is maintained in the ON state as shown in FIG. 44C by the processes of steps S173 and S175. That is, the external output of the launch position designation signal is continuously performed even during the time reduction control. The right-handed instruction notification AR1 serving as the first right-handed instruction notification may be performed until the time-shortening control is completed as indicated by a solid line in FIG. 44D, or indicated by a broken line in FIG. As described above, when the predetermined first right-hand notification end condition is satisfied, it may be ended before the time-shortening control is ended.

  When the time reduction control ends, as shown in FIG. 44B, the time reduction signal changes from the on state to the off state. That is, the external output of the time reduction signal is completed. At this time, when it is determined in step S172 shown in FIG. 31 that the time reduction control is not being performed, the firing position designation signal also changes from the on state to the off state, as shown in FIG. 44 (C). That is, the external output of the launch position designation signal ends. Further, it is determined that the background designation command corresponding to the low base state has been received in the process of step S672 shown in FIG. 42, and it is determined that the first right-handed instruction notification is set in the process of step S673. Based on this, as shown in FIG. 44 (D), the process of step S675 starts the left-handed instruction notification AL1 that is the first left-handed instruction notification. In the process of step S676 shown in FIG. 42, for example, the number of executions of variable display reaches “3” as the notification end condition (first left-hand notification notification condition) corresponding to the first left-handed instruction notification. . Based on the setting of the notification end condition, as shown in FIG. 44D, the left-handed instruction notification AL1 is performed over a period in which the special symbol and the decorative symbol are changed three times. If it is determined in step S681 shown in FIG. 42 that the notification end condition is satisfied, the left-handed instruction notification AL1 is ended in step S682.

  FIG. 45 shows a case in which a short-time out-of-hours accuracy is obtained when the variable symbol display result is “big hit” and the big hit type is “surprise” in a gaming state where the time-shortening control is not performed (normal state or probability changing state without time reduction). It is a timing diagram which shows the operation example of the output example of a various signal, and the discharge area alerting | reporting. When the variable display result is “big hit”, the two-round big hit state is controlled based on the fact that the big hit type is “surprise”. In response to the start of the big hit gaming state, the external output of the big hit medium signal is started as shown in FIG. At this time, as shown in FIG. 45C, the external output of the launch position designation signal is also started. Also, in the process of step S604 shown in FIG. 38, it is determined that the big hit type of “probability” is designated. Based on this, as shown in FIG. 45 (D), right-handed instruction notification AR2 serving as second right-handed instruction notification is started by the process of step S612.

  Thereafter, in response to the end of the big hit gaming state, the external output of the big hit medium signal is ended as shown in FIG. At this time, since the time reduction control is not performed after the end of the two round big hit state, the external output of the time reduction signal is not started as shown in FIG. If it is determined in step S172 shown in FIG. 31 that the time reduction control is not being performed, the external output of the launch position designation signal is terminated as shown in FIG. The right-handed instruction notification AR2 that is the second right-handed instruction notification may be performed until the big hit gaming state is ended as indicated by a solid line in FIG. 45 (D), or as a broken line in FIG. 45 (D). As shown, when a predetermined second right-handed notification end condition is satisfied, the notification may be ended before the big hit gaming state ends. The second right-hand notification notification end condition may be satisfied in a shorter period than the first right-hand notification notification end condition. Therefore, the notification time of right-handed instruction notification AR2 is shorter than that of right-handed instruction notification AR1.

  42, it is determined that the background designation command corresponding to the low base state has been received in the process of step S672, or it is determined that the first right-handed instruction notification is not set in the process of step S673. Based on this, as shown in FIG. 45D, the process of step S678 starts the left-handed instruction notification AL2 that is the second left-handed instruction notification. In the process of step S679 shown in FIG. 42, for example, the number of executions of variable display reaches “1” as the notification end condition (second left-handed notification end condition) corresponding to the second left-handed instruction notification. . Based on the setting of the notification end condition, as shown in FIG. 45D, the left-handed instruction notification AL2 is performed over a period in which the special symbol or the decorative symbol fluctuates once. If it is determined in step S681 shown in FIG. 42 that the notification end condition is satisfied, the left-handed instruction notification AL2 is ended in step S682.

  FIG. 45 (D) also shows the case where the special symbol variable display result is “small hit” in the gaming state where the time reduction control is not performed (normal state or probability change state without time reduction). As in the case of a short-time collision, the right-hand instruction notification AR2 that is the second right-hand instruction notification and the left-hand instruction notification AL2 that is the second left-hand instruction notification are performed. In addition, in the case of the short extra collision probability shown in FIG. 45 (C) corresponding to the change in the big winning opening between the open state (first state) and the closed state (second state) in the small hit game state. In the same manner as described above, an external output of the launch position designation signal is performed.

  The right-handed instruction notification AR1 as shown in FIG. 39A is performed in the first right-handed notification mode in which the player is clearly notified that the game ball should be launched into the right game area 2B. In this case, the player is highly likely to adjust the operation amount of the operation knob 31 in order to launch the game ball to the right game area 2B according to the right-handed instruction notification AR1. On the other hand, the right-handed instruction notification AR2 as shown in FIG. 39B is informed that the player should not be able to recognize or difficult to recognize that the game ball should be launched into the right game area 2B. It is performed in a hit notification mode. In this case, the player is less likely to adjust the operation amount of the operation knob 31 to launch the game ball to the right game area 2B, despite the right-handed instruction notification AR2. In this way, it is assumed that the player is likely to fire the game ball in the right game area 2B in response to the right-handed instruction notification AR1, while the player places the game ball in the right game area 2B in accordance with the right-handed instruction notification AR2. Is unlikely to be fired.

  Therefore, after the right-handed instruction notification AR1 is performed, the left-handed instruction notification AL1 as shown in FIG. 43 (A) is performed in the first left-handed notification mode, whereby the game ball is launched into the left game area 2A. What to do is clearly notified to the player. On the other hand, after the right-handed instruction notification AR2 is performed, the left-handed instruction notification AL2 as shown in FIG. The player should be notified that it should be fired to 2A in an unrecognizable or difficult to recognize state. Thus, the left-handed to notify that the game ball should be fired to the left game area 2A in a notification mode suitable for the game-ball launch mode assumed according to the right-handed command notification AR1 or the right-handed command notification AR2. Instruction notification AL1 and left-handed instruction notification AL2 are performed.

  44 and 45 show output timings when external output is performed with respect to the big hit signal, time reduction signal, and launch position designation signal included in the test terminal output signal. Such a test terminal output signal is output externally only when a test device serving as an external device is connected to a connection component such as a signal pin or a connector provided on the wiring pattern of the main board 11, for example. During normal use when is not connected, external output may not be performed. The connection component may be in a state in which an external device can be connected only during a test, and may be sealed (sealed), removed, not mounted, or destroyed during normal use other than during a test so that the external device cannot be connected.

  As described above, in the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to the above-described embodiment, in response to the big winning game state, the big winning opening changes between the open state (first state) and the closed state (second state). This is the first change mode in which the game ball easily passes (enters) through the big winning opening as the change mode is in the round 15 big hit state, or the game ball passes through the big winning opening (enters) as in the two round big hit state. ) Regardless of whether the second change mode is difficult to perform, processing for externally outputting a launch position designation signal indicating that the game ball should be launched into the right game area 2B (steps S173 and S175 in FIG. 31) is executed. Is done. Further, when the change mode of the big prize opening becomes the first change mode as in the 15th round big hit state, the right-handed instruction notification AR1 serving as the first right-handed instruction notification is performed, and the big win is obtained as in the two-round big hit state. When the mouth changing mode is the second changing mode, a right-handed instruction notification AR2 that is a second right-handed instruction notification is performed. Thereby, it is possible to prevent a situation in which notification is not performed despite a predetermined signal such as the launch position designation signal being output to the outside, and to maintain the fairness of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1.

  After the right-handed instruction notification AR1 is performed, the left-handed instruction notification AL1 serving as the first left-handed instruction notification as illustrated in FIG. 43A is performed based on the start setting in step S675 illustrated in FIG. . On the other hand, after the right-handed instruction notification AR2 is performed, the left-handed instruction notification that becomes the second left-handed instruction notification as shown in FIG. 43B based on the start setting in step S678 shown in FIG. AL2 is performed. The first left-hand notification mode in the left-hand instruction notification AL1 is different from the second left-hand notification mode in the left-hand instruction notification AL2. In this way, the left-handed instruction notification AL1 or the left-handed instruction in the first left-handed notification mode or the second left-handed notification mode suitable for the game ball firing mode assumed according to the right-handed direction notification AR1 or the right-handed direction notification AR2. Notification AL2 can be performed to instruct the player to perform an appropriate launch operation.

  In the right-handed instruction notification AR2, the notification time may be shorter than that in the right-handed instruction notification AR1. Further, the right-handed instruction notification AR2 may be a second right-handed notification mode that is less recognized by the player than the first right-handed notification mode in the right-handed command notification AR1. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the player from feeling uncomfortable by notification while maintaining the fairness of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1.

  When the special symbol variable display result is “small hit” and the game is controlled to the small hit game state, as in the case of the two round big hit state, the big winning opening is in the open state in the second change mode (first state). And the closed state (second state). At this time as well, processing for outputting the launch position designation signal to the outside (steps S173 and S175 in FIG. 31) is executed, and right-handed instruction notification AR2 is performed. Thereby, even in the small hit gaming state, it is possible to improve the interest of the game by increasing the sense of expectation that the probability variation control is performed based on the “probability”.

  When the power to the pachinko gaming machine 1 is turned on, data indicating a special gaming state such that a predetermined operation (for example, pressing operation) of the clear switch 501 is not detected and initialization processing is not executed, and the probability variation flag is on. Is stored, the on-state signal is externally output until a predetermined output stop condition is satisfied. Thereby, the gaming state when the power supply of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is started can be managed by an external device such as a hall computer, and can be easily grasped by a manager of the game hall. For example, when probability variation control was performed at the previous stoppage of power supply in the pachinko gaming machine 1 (at the time of power interruption), the setting at the time of power failure restoration when the power supply of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is started (see FIG. There is a possibility that recovery is performed so that the probability variation control is continuously performed by performing step S91). In particular, as in the mode A and mode C production modes, when there is a common production mode that can execute a common production regardless of whether or not probability variation control is being performed, the pachinko gaming machine 1 From the appearance, it may be impossible or difficult to determine whether or not probability variation control is being performed. And if the game after recovery is performed with the probability variation control being performed, the special figure display result easily becomes a “hit” and it is controlled to the big win game state, and the game hall receives an unintended disadvantage There is a fear. Therefore, it is possible to easily recognize the gaming state when the power supply of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is started to prevent such a disadvantage from occurring. In this case, it is not necessary for an administrator of the game hall to monitor the individual pachinko gaming machine 1 when the power is turned on to check whether it is in a special gaming state such as a probable change state or the like, in an external device such as a hall computer. The presence or absence of the pachinko gaming machine 1 in the special gaming state can be comprehensively confirmed.

  In the information output process shown in FIG. 28, for example, in step S137, the payout condition determination count value reaches the condition satisfaction determination value, and the payout condition for paying out a predetermined number (for example, 10) of game balls as prizes is satisfied. Based on the above, the processing of steps S140 to S145 and S147 externally outputs a payout condition establishment signal indicating establishment of the payout condition. Thereby, the establishment timing of the payout condition can be accurately grasped outside the pachinko gaming machine 1.

  In the payout information output process shown in FIG. 35, for example, based on the fact that the number of prize balls paid out has reached the payout detection determination value in step S524 and a predetermined number (eg, 10) of prize balls has been detected as a prize. Through the processing of S527 to S532, a payout detection signal indicating that a predetermined number of prize ball payouts has been detected is output to the outside. Thereby, outside the pachinko gaming machine 1, it is possible to easily grasp that a predetermined number of game balls have been paid out as prizes, and an abnormal payout operation can be specified.

  In the process of step S6 shown in FIG. 20, the RAM 106 of the gaming control microcomputer 100 is set to an accessible state in response to the start of power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 1, and then the condition satisfaction signal output timer is set. Clear and initialize the timer value to “0”. In the process of step S407 shown in FIG. 32, the detection signal output timer is cleared and the timer value is initialized to “0” in response to the start of power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 1. Thus, when the power supply of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is turned on, the predetermined signal output timer is cleared and initialized, so that when the power supply of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is interrupted, one signal output is divided into two times. Can prevent inconvenience.

  The present invention is not limited to the above embodiment, and various modifications and applications are possible. For example, the pachinko gaming machine 1 may not have all the technical features shown in the above embodiment, and the one described in the above embodiment so as to solve at least one problem in the prior art. The structure of the part may be provided. As a specific example, a configuration for externally outputting a launch position designation signal, such as the CPU 104 that executes the processes of steps S173 and S175 shown in FIG. 31, and the processes of steps S137 to S145 and S147 shown in FIG. One having a configuration for externally outputting a payout condition establishment signal or a payout detection signal, such as the CPU 104 to be executed or the CPU 214 to execute the processes of steps S522 to S532 shown in FIG. What is necessary is just to be sufficient and the other structure etc. may not be provided.

  In the above embodiment, the CPU 104 of the game control microcomputer 100 mounted on the main board 11 executes the processing of steps S137 to 145 and S147 shown in FIG. 28 and the processing of step S158 shown in FIG. It has been described that the payout condition satisfaction signal indicating that the condition is satisfied is output externally. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the CPU 214 of the payout control microcomputer 150 mounted on the payout control board 15 may execute processing for outputting a payout condition establishment signal to the outside.

  As an example, each time the CPU 214 of the payout control microcomputer 150 receives a prize ball number command transmitted from the main board 11, the prize ball number specified by the prize ball number command is added to the prize ball number count value. To do. Then, when the winning ball count value reaches the condition establishment determination value, the payout condition establishment signal may be externally output by updating the condition establishment signal output remaining count to be incremented by 1, for example. .

  In addition, the device configuration, data configuration, processing shown in the flowchart of the pachinko gaming machine 1, various presentation operations and notification operations including the display operation of the presentation image in the display area of the image display device 5, etc. Changes and modifications can be arbitrarily made without departing from the spirit of the invention. Further, the program and data for realizing the present invention are not limited to a form distributed and provided to the pachinko gaming machine 1 by a removable recording medium, but a storage device such as a computer device or the like in advance. You may take the form that is distributed by pre-installing. Furthermore, the program and data for realizing the present invention are distributed by downloading from other devices on a network connected via a communication line or the like by providing a communication processing unit. It doesn't matter.

  And the execution form of various processes is not only executed by attaching a removable recording medium, but can also be executed by temporarily storing the downloaded program and data via a communication line etc. in an internal memory etc. Or a form directly executed using hardware resources on the other device side on a network connected via a communication line or the like. Further, various processes can be executed by exchanging data with other computer devices or the like via a network.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Pachinko machine 2A ... Left game area 2B ... Right game area 4A ... First special symbol display device 4B ... Second special symbol display device 5 ... Image display device 6A ... Ordinary winning ball device 6B ... Ordinary variable winning ball device 7 ... special variable winning ball apparatus 8L, 8R ... speaker 9 ... game effect lamp 11 ... main board 12 ... effect control board 15 ... payout control board 21 ... gate switch 22A ... first start port switch 22B ... second start port switch 23 ... Count switch 24 ... General winning opening switch 25 ... Winning confirmation switch 31 ... Operation knob 51 ... Dispensing motor 72 ... Dispensing count switch 100 ... Game control microcomputers 104, 214, 120A ... CPU
105, 215 ... ROM
106, 216 ... RAM
120 ... Production control microcomputer 150 ... Discharge control microcomputer 501 ... Clear switches AR1, AR2 ... Right-handed instruction notification AL1, AL2 ... Left-handed instruction notification PL ... Nail arrangement

Claims (1)

A game is played by launching a game medium into the game area, and based on the fact that the game medium has passed through the start area provided in the game area, a plurality of types of identification information that can be identified are variably displayed and displayed. A gaming machine comprising variable display means for deriving a result, and controlling a specific gaming state advantageous to a player when a predetermined specific display result is derived as a variable display result of identification information,
A variable prize apparatus that is provided in a predetermined area in the game area and changes between a first state in which a game medium can enter and a second state in which the game medium cannot enter or is difficult to enter;
When in the specific gaming state, the variable winning device is either a first change mode in which a game medium easily enters or a second change mode in which a game medium is less likely to enter than the first change mode. A variable winning control means capable of controlling the first state and the second state in a change mode of:
Informing means for informing the player that the game medium should be launched into the predetermined area, based on the fact that the variable winning device is controlled to the first state by the variable winning control means;
A start winning device that is provided in the predetermined area and changes between a first guiding state in which a game medium easily passes through the starting area and a second guiding state in which the game medium cannot pass or difficult to pass through;
Based on the establishment of the predetermined condition, advantageous gaming state control means for controlling the advantageous gaming state in which the start winning device is set to the first guiding state in comparison with the normal gaming state,
Based on the fact that a payout condition for paying out a predetermined number of game media as prizes is established according to a predetermined game result including the entry of the game medium into the variable prize device, the fact that the payout condition is satisfied A signal output processing means for executing a signal output process for outputting a payout condition establishment signal to the outside of the gaming machine;
The notification means performs the first notification in response to the change mode of the variable prize apparatus being the first change mode, while the change mode of the variable prize device is the second change mode. Correspondingly, a notification control means for performing a second notification different from the first notification,
The signal output processing means executes a firing signal output process for outputting a signal indicating that a gaming medium should be fired to the predetermined area to the outside of the gaming machine when in the advantageous gaming state.
A gaming machine characterized by that.