JP5595861B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine that performs a lottery for operating an electric accessory by winning a game ball.

  In a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine, when a game ball wins a start opening, a lottery (a jackpot lottery, a special symbol lottery) is performed as an opportunity, and a lottery result is notified in a special symbol. When the jackpot lottery is won, the jackpot which is a special electric accessory is opened, and a jackpot gaming state in which a large number of prize balls can be obtained. An opening / closing member (electric tulip), which is an ordinary electric accessory, is provided at the starting port. When the opening / closing member is in an open state (open state), it is easy for a game ball to win a prize at the starting port, and a closed state ( When in the closed state, it is difficult to win a game ball at the starting port. Therefore, the player can increase the probability that the game ball wins the start opening by firing the game ball so that the game ball reaches the start opening at the timing when the opening / closing member is opened.

  In addition, the gaming machine is provided with a start gate, and when the game ball passes through the start gate, a lottery for operating the opening / closing member provided at the start port is triggered by this (open / close lottery, normal symbol lottery). Is performed, and the lottery result is notified by the normal symbol. Here, after the game ball passes through the start gate, another game ball may pass through the start gate after the open / close lottery is performed and the lottery result is notified. In this case, the gaming machine stores up to a certain number (for example, four) of game balls that have passed through the start gate. Then, the open / close lottery is sequentially performed for the number of stored game balls (holding balls) (the number of holding balls) and digested. In addition, about the memory | storage of the number of pending | holdings, it is performed also about the winning at a start opening.

  When the open / close lottery is won, the opening / closing member of the start port is opened for a predetermined time, or such open state is repeated a predetermined number of times and then closed. However, generally, the time for the opening / closing member to be in the open state is relatively short, and it is not always easy to fire the game ball at a good timing.

  Therefore, when winning the open / close lottery, it is conceivable to notify that the open / close member is in an open state before operating the open / close member. Patent Document 1 discloses a gaming machine that performs a preliminary determination of a lottery result for a reserved ball of a normal symbol lottery (open / close lottery) and notifies a notice of the operation of an ordinary electric accessory (opening / closing member is opened). Is disclosed.

JP 2004-57714 A

  As described above, by giving notice of the result of the open / close lottery, the player can play the game while estimating the timing when the open / close member is opened, so that the player's interest in the game can be enhanced. Be expected. However, when the notification of opening / closing lottery is performed based on a certain probability set in advance or a gaming state controlled according to the progress of the game, and the notification method becomes monotonous, the player gets used to the notification. There is a possibility of gradually losing interest.

  In order to solve such problems, an object of the present invention is to further increase the interest of a player in a game by complicating a method of notifying the opening / closing lottery by combining a plurality of notification conditions. .

The present invention that achieves the above object is realized as the following gaming machine. This gaming machine
A gaming machine in which a game ball launched into a game area is played,
A switch 214 provided in the gaming area for detecting that a game ball has passed;
Lottery means 200 for performing a lottery on the operation of the ordinary electric accessory 123 when the switch 214 detects a game ball;
Prior determination means 200 for determining the result of the lottery before the lottery is performed by the lottery means 200 when the switch 214 detects a game ball;
With respect to the holding balls for which the lottery means 200 has held the lottery, the holding ball information storage means 303 for storing information including the determination result of the prior determination means 200;
History information storage means 303 for storing history information related to the execution of a lottery performed in response to winning of a game ball;
Notification condition determination means 300 for determining whether or not the history information stored in the history information storage means 303 satisfies a preset notification condition;
Production control means 300 for performing a notification effect for notifying information on the reserved ball stored in the reserved ball information storage unit 303 according to a determination result by the notification condition determining unit 300;
It is characterized by providing.

More specifically, the history information storage means 303 stores the number of times that the lottery regarding the operation of the special electric accessory 125 has been performed as the history information,
The notification condition determination unit 300 determines whether the notification condition is satisfied based on whether the number of lotteries stored in the history information storage unit 303 has reached a predetermined condition value.
Alternatively, the history information storage unit 303 stores the lottery result of the lottery regarding the operation of the special electric accessory 125 as the history information,
Whether the notification condition determination means 300 satisfies the notification condition based on whether or not the number of consecutive winnings in the lottery regarding the operation of the special electric accessory 125 has reached a predetermined condition value. Determine.
Alternatively, the history information storage means 303 stores the lottery result of the lottery regarding the operation of the special electric accessory 125 as the history information,
Whether the notification condition determination means 300 has satisfied the notification condition based on whether or not the number of wins for a specific win in the lottery regarding the operation of the special electric accessory 125 has reached a predetermined condition value. Determine whether.

  In addition, the said code | symbol in this column is attached | subjected illustratively in the description of this invention, and this invention is not reduced by this code | symbol.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to further enhance the interest of the game by using a combination of a plurality of notification conditions and complicating the method of notifying the opening / closing lottery.

It is a schematic front view of the pachinko gaming machine according to the present embodiment. It is a partial plane enlarged view of the pachinko gaming machine of the present embodiment. It is a figure which shows the internal structure of the control unit of the pachinko game machine of this Embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the function structure of the game control part of this Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the main operation | movement of the game control part of this Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the content of a start port switch process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the gate switch process with respect to a left gate. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the gate switch process with respect to a right side gate. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the special symbol process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the jackpot determination process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the fluctuation pattern selection process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the process during a stop. It is a flowchart which shows the content of a customer waiting | standby setting process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of normal symbol processing. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the big prize opening process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the game state setting process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of an electric tulip process. It is a figure which shows the structural example of the random number used by this Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of an effect control part. It is a block diagram explaining the structural example of RAM of the game control part which concerns on this Embodiment. It is a block diagram explaining the structural example of RAM of the presentation control part which concerns on this Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the reception process of the holding | maintenance number G increase command by an effect control part. It is a figure which shows the example of the effect image displayed on an image display part in the effect which alert | reports the information regarding the holding | maintenance of normal symbol lottery.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[Basic configuration of gaming machine]
FIG. 1 is a schematic front view of a pachinko gaming machine 100 according to the present embodiment.
A pachinko gaming machine 100 as an example of the gaming machine shown in the figure is configured to pay out a prize ball when a game ball launched by an instruction operation by a player wins. The pachinko gaming machine 100 includes a game board 110 on which game balls are launched, and a frame member 150 that surrounds the game board 110. The game board 110 is detachably attached to the frame member 150.

The game board 110 has, on the front, a game area 111 for playing with a game ball, a rail member 112 that forms a passage where a game ball launched from below rises toward the upper position of the game area 111, and a game A guide member 113 for guiding the game ball is provided on the right side of the region 111.
In the present embodiment, an image display unit 114 that displays various images for production is provided at a position of the game area 111 that is easily visible to the player. The image display unit 114 includes a display screen such as a liquid crystal display, and displays a decorative symbol for notifying the player of a symbol lottery result (symbol variation result), for example, as the game progresses by the player. An effect image by the appearance of a character or the appearance of an item is displayed.
In addition, a movable accessory 115 and a board lamp 116 used for various effects are provided on the front surface of the game board 110. The movable accessory 115 performs various effects by operating on the game board 110, and the board lamp 116 performs various effects by emitting light.

  The game area 111 is provided with a game nail and a windmill (not shown) for changing the direction in which the game ball falls. Further, in the game area 111, various bonuses relating to winning and lottery are arranged at predetermined positions. In addition, the game area 111 is provided with a discharge port 117 through which game balls launched into the game area 111 that have not been won in the winning area are discharged out of the game area 111.

In the present embodiment, as various functions related to winning and lottery, the first starting port 121 and the second starting port 122 that win when a game ball enters and a special symbol lottery (big hit lottery) starts, A start gate (hereinafter simply referred to as a gate) 124 that starts a normal symbol lottery (open / close lottery) upon passing, is provided on the game board 110. Here, the first start port 121 and the second start port 122 refer to a winning port related to winning a game ball that activates one predetermined special symbol display.
The second start port 122 includes an electric tulip (opening / closing member) 123 as a normal electric accessory that is turned on and off by a pair of blades in the shape of tulip flowers that are opened and closed by an electric solenoid. In the electric tulip 123, when the blade is closed, it is difficult for the game ball to enter the second start port 122, but when the blade is opened, the entrance of the second start port 122 is expanded and the game ball is moved to the second start port 122. It is configured to be easy to enter. When the electric tulip 123 wins the normal symbol lottery, the blade opens for a specified time (for example, 6 seconds) and a specified number of times (for example, 3 times) while lighting or flashing.

  In the case of the pachinko gaming machine 100, when the jackpot probability of winning the jackpot in the special symbol lottery varies under a predetermined condition (from a low probability state (for example, 1/300) to a high probability state (for example, 1/30)) Variation). In addition, the pachinko gaming machine 100 can reduce the special symbol variation time during the special symbol lottery under a predetermined condition, increase the probability of winning during the normal symbol lottery, or the normal symbol variation time during the normal symbol lottery. It may be shortened, the opening time of the blades of the electric tulips 123 may be extended, or the number of times the blades of the electric tulips 123 may be opened.

In the present embodiment, the other prize-winning and lottery items include the special prize opening 125 that opens according to the result of the special symbol lottery, and the lottery starts even if the game ball wins. A normal winning opening 126 that is not to be played is provided on the game board 110.
In the present embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the first start port 121 is disposed in the lower part near the center of the game area 111, and the second start port 122 and the big prize opening 125 are located in the right half of the game area 111. Is arranged. The gates 124 are respectively provided in the left half area and the right half area of the game area 111. In FIG. 1, the left gate 124 is denoted by 124 L with a suffix L, and the right gate 124 is denoted by 124 R with a suffix R. Also in the following description, when it is necessary to distinguish between the two gates 124, the suffixes L and R are similarly attached.
In the present embodiment, a display 130 for displaying a lottery result and the number of holds is arranged at the lower right position of the game board 110.

  Here, paying attention to the arrangement of the winning holes on the game board 110 shown in FIG. 1, the second start opening 122 and the big winning opening 125 are collectively arranged in the right half area of the gaming area 111. That is, the pachinko gaming machine 100 according to the present embodiment aims at the first start port 121 from the left side of the game area 111 in a normal game state in which the electric tulip 123 and the big prize opening 125 of the second start port 122 are closed. A game ball is fired (left-handed), and in a gaming state advantageous to a player who has the electric tulip 123 or the grand prize winning opening 125 of the second starting opening 122 open, the second starting opening 121 or the big winning prize is moved to the right side of the gaming area 111. The board surface is designed so that a game ball is fired (right-handed) aiming at the mouth 125. Here, the hitting of the game ball into the left half region and the right half region of the game area 111 can be performed by adjusting the amount of rotation of the lever 152 of the handle 151 and changing the hitting force of the game ball. it can. Of the two gates 124 provided in the pachinko gaming machine 100 of the present embodiment, the gate 124L is a gate provided so that a game ball passes (gate winning) when left-handed, and the gate 124R is It is a gate provided so that a game ball can pass when hit.

  Also, on the back side of the game board 110, there are a game control board that performs internal lottery and determination of winning, an effect control board that comprehensively controls effects, an image control board that controls effects by images and sounds, various lamps, Various substrates (not shown) such as a lamp control substrate for controlling the effect by the movable accessory 115 are attached. In addition, a switching power supply (not shown) that converts the supplied 24V AC power source into a DC power source and outputs it to various boards and the like is disposed on the back surface of the game board 110.

When the player touches the handle 151 and rotates the lever 152 in the clockwise direction, the frame member 150 moves the game balls at a predetermined time interval (for example, 100 per minute) with the hitting force according to the operation angle And a launching device (not shown) for electrically firing. In addition, the frame member 150 includes a supply device (not shown) that sequentially supplies game balls to the launching device one by one at a timing in conjunction with the operation of the player's lever 152, and a game ball that the supply device supplies to the launching device. A plate 153 (see FIG. 2) for temporarily storing. For example, a payout ball by a payout unit is paid out to the plate 153.
In the present embodiment, the plate 153 is configured as an integrated upper and lower plate, but a configuration example in which the upper plate and the lower plate are separated is also conceivable. A configuration example in which the handle 151 of the launching device emits light under a predetermined condition is also conceivable.

The frame member 150 also includes a stop button 154 for temporarily stopping the launch of the game ball even when the player is touching the handle 151 of the launch device, and a game ball stored in the tray 153. A take-out button 155 for dropping and taking out the box (not shown).
Further, the frame member 150 includes a speaker 156 and a frame lamp 157 for notifying the gaming state and situation of the pachinko gaming machine 100 and performing various effects. The speaker 156 performs various effects based on music, voice, and sound effects, and the frame lamp 157 performs various effects based on light depending on a pattern or light emission color caused by lighting and blinking. In addition, about the frame lamp | ramp 157, the structural example which enables it to perform the effect which changes the irradiation direction of light can be considered.
The frame member 150 also includes a transparent plate (not shown) for separating the game board 110 from the player.

FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining the pachinko gaming machine 100 according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 2A is an enlarged view showing an example of a display 130 arranged at the lower right of the game board 110. b) is a partial plan view of the pachinko gaming machine 100. FIG.
As shown in FIG. 2A, the display 130 of the pachinko gaming machine 100 includes a first special symbol display 221 that operates in response to winning of the first starting port 121 and a winning of the second starting port 122. The second special symbol display 222 that operates in response to the above and the normal symbol display 223 that operates in response to the passage of the gate 124 are provided. The first special symbol display 221 variably displays the special symbol resulting from winning of the first start port 121 and displays the lottery result. The second special symbol display 222 variably displays special symbols resulting from winning at the second start port 122 and displays the lottery results. The normal symbol display unit 223 displays the normal symbol variably and displays the lottery result when the game ball passes through the gate 124. In the present embodiment, the first special symbol display 221, the second special symbol display 222, and the normal symbol display 223 are each configured by a display device in which LEDs are arranged.

  In addition, the indicator 130 operates in response to the hold in the first special symbol display 221 and the first special symbol hold indicator 218 that operates corresponding to the hold in the first special symbol display 221 and the second special symbol display 222. 2 a special symbol hold indicator 219 and a normal symbol hold indicator 220 that operates in response to the hold in the normal symbol indicator 223. In the present embodiment, each of the first special symbol hold indicator 218, the second special symbol hold indicator 219, and the normal symbol hold indicator 220 is composed of an LED display device arranged in a line, and depending on its lighting mode The number of holds is displayed.

  Here, the hold will be described. If there is a prize with another game ball while the special symbol or normal symbol fluctuation display operation is being performed (while the fluctuation display for one prize is being performed), the symbol is changing, The symbol variation display operation cannot be started. Therefore, the number of subsequent winnings is stored up to a predetermined number (for example, four), and the symbol variable display operation for the winning game ball is suspended until the variable display operation for the previously winning game ball is completed. . The fact that such a hold is made and the number of the hold (the number of undrawn lots) are displayed on the first special symbol hold indicator 218, the second special symbol hold indicator 219, and the normal symbol hold indicator 220.

  Furthermore, the display device 130 includes a state display device 224 that displays the state of the pachinko gaming machine 100. In the present embodiment, the status indicator 224 is configured by a display device in which two LEDs are arranged. One of the two LEDs notifies whether or not the gaming state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 is a probability variation gaming state, which will be described later, by lighting, and the other one is large by hitting right. Whether or not the game state is advantageous to the player who is likely to win a prize at the winning opening 125 or the second start opening 122 is notified by lighting.

  The frame member 150 of the pachinko gaming machine 100 includes an input device for a player to input an effect. As shown in FIG. 2B, in the present embodiment, as an example of an input device, an effect button 161 and an effect key 162 composed of a plurality of keys adjacent to the effect button 161 and arranged in a substantially cross shape are provided. Are disposed on the frame member 150. The production key 162 is configured such that one central key is arranged at the center, and four peripheral keys having substantially the same shape are arranged around the central key. The player can select one of a plurality of images displayed on the image display unit 114 by operating the four peripheral keys, and can select the selected image by operating the center key. Can be entered as information.

[Configuration of control unit]
Next, a control unit that performs operation control and signal processing in the pachinko gaming machine 100 will be described.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of the control unit. As shown in the figure, the control unit includes a game control unit 200 that performs various controls relating to the number of prize balls to be paid out, such as internal lottery and determination of winning, as main control means. Further, as sub-control means, an effect control unit 300 that comprehensively controls effects, an image / sound control unit 310 that controls effects using images and sound, and effects using various lamps and movable accessories 115 A ramp control unit 320 for controlling the payout, and a payout control unit 400 for performing payout control of the payout ball.

  As described above, the game control unit 200, the effect control unit 300, the image / sound control unit 310, the lamp control unit 320, and the payout control unit 400 are each a game as a main board disposed on the rear surface of the game board 110. The control board, the effect control board as the sub board, the image control board, the lamp control board, and the payout control board are individually configured.

[Configuration and function of game control unit]
The game control unit 200 includes a CPU 201 that performs arithmetic processing when performing various controls related to the number of paid-out prize balls, such as internal lottery and winning determination, and a ROM 202 that stores programs executed by the CPU 201, various data, and the like. And a RAM 203 used as a working memory for the CPU 201.
The game control unit 200 performs a special symbol lottery when a game ball wins the first start port 121 or the second start port 122, and sends a determination result as to whether or not it is a win in the special symbol lottery to the effect control unit 300. Also, fluctuation setting of winning probability at special symbol lottery (for example, fluctuation setting from 1/300 to 1/30), special symbol fluctuation time shortening at special symbol lottery, and normal symbol at normal symbol lottery The variable time is set to be shortened, and the setting content is sent to the effect control unit 300.
Further, the game control unit 200 controls the extension of the opening time of the blades of the electric tulip 123, the setting of the number of times the blades of the electric tulip 123 are opened, and the setting of the opening / closing operation interval when the blades are opened. In addition, when a game ball continuously wins the first start port 121 or the second start port 122, the game ball is suspended until the limit number (for example, four) for the undrawn lots, or the game ball continuously passes through the gate 124. The suspension is set up to the limit number (for example, 4) for the undrawn lots.
In addition, the game control unit 200 performs a predetermined number of rounds that maintain an open state until the special winning opening 125 satisfies a predetermined condition (for example, 30 seconds have passed or 10 game balls have been won) according to the result of the special symbol lottery. Control to repeat. Furthermore, the opening / closing operation interval when the special winning opening 125 is opened is controlled.

Further, when the game ball is won in the first start port 121, the second start port 122, the big winning port 125, and the normal winning port 126, the game control unit 200 per game ball according to the place where the game ball has won. The payout control unit 400 is instructed to pay out a predetermined number of prize balls. For example, when a game ball wins at the first start port 121, three prize balls, when a game ball wins at the second start port 122, four prize balls, and when a game ball wins the big prize port 125, thirteen prizes. When a game ball wins the ball, the normal winning opening 126, an instruction command (command) is sent to the payout control unit 400 so as to pay out 10 prize balls. Even if it is detected that the game ball has passed through the gate 124, the payout control unit 400 is not instructed to pay out the prize ball in conjunction therewith.
When the payout control unit 400 pays out a prize ball in accordance with an instruction from the game control unit 200, the game control unit 200 acquires information on the number of prize balls paid out from the payout control unit 400. As a result, the number of prize balls paid out is managed.

As shown in FIG. 2, the game control unit 200 includes a first start port detection unit (first start port switch (SW)) 211 that detects a winning of a game ball to the first start port 121, and a second start. A second start port detection unit (second start port switch (SW)) 212 that detects a winning of a game ball to the mouth 122, an electric tulip opening / closing unit 213 that opens and closes the electric tulip 123, and a game ball to the gate 124 A gate detection unit (gate switch (SW)) 214 that detects passage is connected.
Further, the game control unit 200 has a large winning port detecting unit (large winning port switch (SW)) 215 for detecting a winning of a game ball to the large winning port 125, and the large winning port 125 is inclined to be in a closed state. A large winning opening / closing unit 216 set to the open state and a normal winning opening detecting unit (normal winning opening switch (SW)) 217 for detecting the winning of a game ball to the normal winning opening 126 are connected.

In addition, the game control unit 200 displays the reserved number for the undrawn special symbol lottery (big win lottery) started by winning the game ball at the first start port 121 within the limit number (for example, four). A special symbol hold indicator 218, a second special symbol hold indicator 219 for displaying the number of unsold lots in the special symbol lottery started by winning a game ball in the second start port 122 within the limit number, A normal symbol hold indicator 220 is connected to the normal symbol lottery display (open / close lottery) started by the passage of the game ball to the gate 124 and displays the number of unsettled hold numbers within the limit number.
Further, the game control unit 200 includes a first special symbol display 221 for displaying a result of a special symbol lottery started by winning a game ball at the first start port 121, and a game ball to the second start port 122. A second special symbol display 222 for displaying the result of the special symbol lottery started by winning, a normal symbol display 223 for displaying the result of the normal symbol lottery, and a status indicator 224 for displaying the state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 , Is connected.

  Then, detection signals detected by the first start port switch 211, the second start port switch 212, the gate switch 214, the big winning port switch 215 and the normal winning port switch 217 are sent to the game control unit 200. In addition, the control signal from the game control unit 200 includes an electric tulip opening / closing unit 213, a special prize opening / closing unit 216, a first special symbol hold indicator 218, a second special symbol hold indicator 219, a normal symbol hold indicator 220, It is sent to the first special symbol display 221, the second special symbol display 222, and the normal symbol display 223. Thereby, the game control unit 200 performs various controls related to the number of payout prize balls.

  Further, a board external information terminal board 250 that transmits various kinds of information to a host computer (not shown) installed in the hall is connected to the game control unit 200. Then, the game control unit 200 transmits information about the number of paid-out prize balls, information indicating the state of the game control unit 200, and the like acquired from the payout control unit 400 to the host computer via the board external information terminal board 250. To do.

[Configuration and function of production control unit]
The effect control unit 300 includes a CPU 301 that performs calculation processing when controlling the effect, a ROM 302 that stores programs executed by the CPU 301 and various data, a RAM 303 that is used as a work memory of the CPU 301, and the like. And a real-time clock (RTC) 304 for measuring.
The production control unit 300 sets the production content based on, for example, the determination result of whether or not the winning is a special symbol lottery sent from the game control unit 200. At that time, in response to an operation input from the user using an effect button or the like (the effect button 161 and the effect key 162), the contents of the effect corresponding to the operation input may be set. In this case, for example, a signal (operation signal) corresponding to an operation is received from a controller (not shown) such as an effect button, and the operation content identified by the operation signal is reflected in the setting of the effect. In addition, when the game is interrupted for a predetermined period, an instruction to set a screen display for waiting for a customer is given as one of the effects.
Furthermore, when the game control unit 200 changes the winning probability at the time of the special symbol lottery, shortens the special symbol fluctuation time at the time of the special symbol lottery, and shortens the normal symbol fluctuation time at the time of the normal symbol lottery. In this case, the production control unit 300 sets the production content corresponding to the set content.
In addition, the effect control unit 300 sends a command for instructing execution of the set effect contents to the image / sound control unit 310 and the lamp control unit 320.

[Configuration / Function of Image / Sound Control Unit]
The image / sound control unit 310 is a CPU 311 that performs arithmetic processing for controlling the image and sound representing the content of the effect, a ROM 312 that stores programs executed by the CPU 311, various data, and the like. And a RAM 313 used as a memory or the like.
Then, the image / sound control unit 310 controls the image displayed on the image display unit 114 and the sound output from the speaker 156 based on the command sent from the effect control unit 300.
Specifically, in the ROM 312 of the image / sound control unit 310, a symbol image or background image displayed during the game on the image display unit 114, a decorative symbol for notifying the player of the lottery result, and a notice effect for the player Image data such as a character or item for displaying is stored. Furthermore, various kinds of acoustic data such as music and sound output from the speaker 156 in synchronization with the image data or independently of the image data, and sound effects such as jingles are stored. The CPU 311 selects and reads out the data corresponding to the command sent from the effect control unit 300 from the image data and the sound data stored in the ROM 312. Furthermore, image processing for background image display, symbol image display, symbol image variation, character / item display, etc., and voice processing using the read acoustic data are performed using the read image data.
Then, the image / sound control unit 310 controls screen display on the image display unit 114 based on the image data subjected to image processing. Further, the sound output from the speaker 156 is controlled by the sound data subjected to the sound processing.

[Configuration and function of lamp control unit]
The lamp control unit 320 stores a CPU 321 that performs arithmetic processing when controlling the light emission of the panel lamp 116 and the frame lamp 157 and the operation of the movable accessory 115, and programs executed by the CPU 321 and various data. A ROM 322 and a RAM 323 used as a working memory for the CPU 321 are provided.
The lamp control unit 320 controls lighting / flashing of the panel lamp 116 and the frame lamp 157, the emission color, and the like based on the command sent from the effect control unit 300. Further, the operation of the movable accessory 115 is controlled.
Specifically, the ROM 322 of the lamp control unit 320 stores lighting / flashing pattern data and emission color pattern data (emission pattern) for the panel lamp 116 and the frame lamp 157 according to the production contents set by the production control unit 300. Data) is stored. The CPU 321 selects and reads out the light emission pattern data stored in the ROM 322 corresponding to the command sent from the effect control unit 300. The lamp controller 320 controls the light emission of the panel lamp 116 and the frame lamp 157 based on the read light emission pattern data.
The ROM 322 of the lamp control unit 320 stores operation pattern data of the movable accessory 115 corresponding to the production content set by the production control unit 300. The CPU 321 controls the operation of the movable accessory 115 based on the read operation pattern data.

[Configuration and function of payout control unit]
The payout control unit 400 includes a CPU 401 that performs arithmetic processing for controlling payout of the payout ball, a ROM 402 that stores programs executed by the CPU 401, various data, and the like, and a RAM 403 that is used as a work memory for the CPU 401. And.
The payout control unit 400 controls payout of the payout ball based on the command sent from the game control unit 200.
Specifically, the payout control unit 400 acquires from the game control unit 200 a command for paying out a predetermined number of prize balls according to the place where the game ball has won (such as the first start port 121). Then, the payout driving unit 411 is controlled so as to pay out the number of prize balls specified by the command. Here, the payout drive unit 411 includes a drive motor that sends out the game ball from the storage unit of the game ball.

The payout control unit 400 also includes a payout ball detection unit 412 that detects the number of prize balls actually paid out from the game ball storage unit by the payout drive unit 411, and a game ball in the storage unit (not shown). Sphere detection unit 413 for detecting whether or not there is a storage, and whether or not the plate 153 in which a game ball used when a player plays a game or a prized ball to be held is full is detected. A full tank detection unit 414 is connected. Then, the payout control unit 400 receives detection signals detected by the payout ball detection unit 412, the ball presence detection unit 413, and the full tank detection unit 414, and performs predetermined processing according to these detection signals.
Further, the payout control unit 400 is connected to a frame external information terminal board 450 that transmits various types of information to a host computer installed in the hall. Then, the payout control unit 400, for example, information on the number of prize balls instructed to pay out to the payout driving unit 411, information on the number of prize balls actually paid out detected by the payout ball detection unit 412, etc. Is transmitted to the host computer via the frame external information terminal board 450. Also, similar information is transmitted to the game control unit 200.

[Functional configuration of game control unit]
Next, the functional configuration of the game control unit 200 will be described.
FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the game control unit 200. As shown in the figure, the game control unit 200 is a special symbol lottery unit 231, a normal symbol lottery unit 232, a special symbol variation control unit 233, and a special symbol lottery result determination as functional units for executing various lottery processes. A unit 234 and a normal symbol control unit 237.
In addition, the game control unit 200 includes a variation pattern selection unit 235 and a game progress control unit 236 as functional units that execute processing associated with special symbol variation.
Furthermore, the game control unit 200 is a function unit that executes operation control of various types of objects and data processing related to a prize ball, etc., as a function unit for a prize winning opening operation control unit 238, an electric tulip operation control unit 239, and a prize ball processing unit 240. And an output control unit 241 and a random number control unit 242.

The special symbol lottery unit 231 performs a special symbol lottery when a game ball wins the first start port 121 or the second start port 122.
The normal symbol lottery unit 232 performs the normal symbol lottery when the game ball passes through the gate 124.
When a special symbol lottery is performed, the special symbol variation control unit 233 controls the variation of the special symbol according to the lottery result.

The special symbol lottery result determination unit 234, when a special symbol lottery is performed, the lottery result is “whether it is a big hit”, “a type of jackpot when a big winner is won”, “not a big winner It is determined whether or not it is a small hit or not.
Here, the “hit” is divided into a plurality of types according to the gaming state that occurs after the end of the jackpot game. Specifically, the type of jackpot is determined by a combination of the presence / absence of a short-time gaming state in which the variation time of the special symbol is shortened and the presence / absence of a probability-changing gaming state in which the winning probability of the jackpot varies with high probability. In other words, the types of jackpots include jackpots in which both a short-time gaming state and a probability variable gaming state occur after the jackpot game ends, a jackpot in which only a short-time gaming state occurs, a jackpot in which only a probability-changing gaming state occurs, a short-time gaming state and There can be a jackpot where none of the probable gaming states occur. Hereinafter, when distinguishing these jackpots, they are distinguished by describing as “with time reduction”, “without time reduction”, “with certainty change”, “without certainty change”, etc., based on the gaming state that occurs after the end of the jackpot game. Each of these jackpots is associated with an individual special symbol, and the type of jackpot is determined according to the type of special symbol won in the special symbol lottery.

  In addition, the “hit” may be divided into a jackpot that can be expected to pay out a large amount of game balls for a long time, and a jackpot that can hardly be expected to be paid out. The former is called “long hit” and the latter is called “short hit”. For example, in “long win”, a round that is maintained until the open state of the big winning opening 125 satisfies a predetermined condition (for example, a predetermined time has elapsed or a predetermined number of game balls have been won) is repeated a predetermined number of times. In the “short win”, a round in which the big prize opening 125 is opened for a predetermined time is repeated a predetermined number of times. Usually, a jackpot where a short-time gaming state occurs (with time saving) after the jackpot game ends is a long win, and a jackpot where no short-time gaming state occurs (no time saving) is a short win.

  Note that a jackpot in which a probability change gaming state occurs (with probability change) after the jackpot game ends is also called “probability jackpot”, and a jackpot in which a probability change gaming state does not occur (without probability change) is also called “normal jackpot”. Also, depending on the game mode, only a probabilistic gaming state occurs after the jackpot game ends, and a short-time gaming state does not occur (with probability variation + no time shortening). Also called etc. In addition, “probability jackpot” may be distinguished as “15 round (15R) probability jackpot”, “2 round (2R) probability jackpot” or the like based on the number of rounds in which the winning prize opening 125 is open. is there.

In addition, the “small winning” in the case where the big winning is not won, for example, a small winning game in which the opening and closing of the big winning opening 125 is performed a predetermined number of times is performed, and the gaming state at the time of winning the small winning is continued even after the winning. It is a hit. That is, when the game state at the time of winning the small hit is the probability variation game state, the probability variation game state is continued even after the end of the small hit game, and the game state does not shift. Similarly, if the gaming state at the time of winning the small hit is a normal gaming state (normal gaming state) in which neither probability fluctuation nor time reduction is made, the normal gaming state is continued even after the end of the small hitting game, The gaming state does not transition.
Further, in the “out of game”, neither “big hit” nor “small win” is set, and none of the above-described gaming states advantageous to the player is set.

The variation pattern selection unit 235 displays the variation pattern (variation time) of the special symbol displayed on the first special symbol display 221 or the second special symbol display 222 when the lottery result of the special symbol is “big hit”. Select. Further, it is determined whether or not a reach effect is to be performed. The “reach effect” here is an effect performed by the image display unit 114 or the like for causing the player to expect a big hit.
The game progress control unit 236 controls the progress of the game in each game state.

When the normal symbol lottery is performed, the normal symbol control unit 237 determines whether the normal symbol lottery result is “winning or lost”. Further, the fluctuation of the normal symbol is controlled according to the lottery result. The winning probability of this normal symbol lottery is high when there is a winning support (so-called electric chew support) to the second start port 122 by opening the electric tulip 123, which is mainly performed in the short-time gaming state.
When it is determined as “winning”, the electric tulip 123 is opened for a specified time and a specified number of times, and a state in which the winning probability of the game ball to the second start port 122 is increased is generated. During the above winning support (electrical chew support), the specified number of times and the specified time increase. In addition, when it is determined as “displacement”, such an open state of the electric tulip 123 does not occur.

The special winning opening operation control unit 238 controls the opening operation of the special winning opening 125.
The electric tulip operation control unit 239 controls the opening operation of the electric tulip 123.
The prize ball processing unit 240 controls the number of prizes received for various types of winnings and lotteries, and controls the payout of prize balls according to the prizes.
The output control unit 241 controls the output of control commands from the game control unit 200 to the effect control unit 300 and the payout control unit 400.
The random number control unit 242 controls updating of various random number values used in processing by the main control unit and the sub control unit.

[Basic operation of gaming machine]
Next, the basic operation of the pachinko gaming machine 100 configured as described above will be described.
The basic operation of the pachinko gaming machine 100 is performed by a game control unit 200 that is a main control means. Then, under the control of the game control unit 200, the effect control unit 300, which is a sub-control means, controls the game effect, and the payout control unit 400 controls the payout of the prize ball.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing main operations of the game control unit 200.
The game control unit 200 repeatedly executes each process shown in FIG. 5 at regular time intervals (for example, 4 milliseconds) in a normal operation except for special cases such as when the power is turned on or when the power is turned off. Referring to FIG. 4, random number update processing, switch processing, symbol processing, electric accessory processing, prize ball processing, and output processing are sequentially executed (steps 501 to 506).

  In the random number update process (step 501), the random number control unit 242 of the game control unit 200 updates various random number values used in the process by the main control unit and the sub control unit. Details of the setting of the random number and the update of the random value will be described later.

As the switch process (step 502), a start port switch process and a gate switch process are performed.
In the start port switch process, the special symbol lottery unit 231 of the game control unit 200 monitors the states of the first start port switch 211 and the second start port switch 212 in FIG. Processing for symbol lottery is executed.
In the gate switch process, the normal symbol lottery unit 232 of the game control unit 200 monitors the state of the gate switch 214 in FIG. 2, and executes a process for the normal symbol lottery when the switch is turned on.
The detailed contents of these switch processes will be described later.

As the symbol processing (step 503), special symbol processing and normal symbol processing are performed.
In the special symbol processing, the special symbol variation control unit 233, the special symbol lottery result determination unit 234, the variation pattern selection unit 235, and the game progress control unit 236 of the game control unit 200 perform special symbol variation and processing associated with this symbol variation. Done.
In the normal symbol processing, the normal symbol control unit 237 of the game control unit 200 performs normal symbol variation and processing associated with this symbol variation.
The detailed contents of these symbol processes will be described later.

As the electric accessory process (step 504), a big prize opening process and an electric tulip process are performed.
In the special prize opening process, the special prize opening operation controller 238 of the game control unit 200 controls the opening operation of the special prize opening 125 based on a predetermined condition.
In the electric tulip process, the electric tulip operation control unit 239 of the game control unit 200 controls the opening operation of the electric tulip 123 based on a predetermined condition.
The detailed contents of these electric accessory processing will be described later.

In the prize ball processing (step 505), the prize ball processing unit 240 of the game control unit 200 controls the management of the number of winning prizes and the payout of prize balls according to the winning prize.
In the output process (step 506), the output control unit 241 of the game control unit 200 outputs a control command to the effect control unit 300 and the payout control unit 400. The control command is generated in each process up to step 505, set in the RAM 203, and output in this output process.

[Start-up switch processing in game control unit]
FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the contents of the start port switch process in the switch process shown in step 502 of FIG.
In the start port switch process, a process for winning at the first start port 121 and a process for winning at the second start port 122 are sequentially performed. Referring to FIG. 6, the special symbol lottery unit 231 of the game control unit 200 first determines whether or not a game ball is won at the first starting port 121 and the first starting port switch 211 is turned on (step). 601). If the first start port switch 211 is turned ON, then the special symbol lottery unit 231 determines whether or not the number U1 of the unlotted hold in the winning of the first start port 121 is less than the upper limit value (step). 602). In the example shown in FIG. 6, the upper limit value is four. If the number of holdings U1 has reached the upper limit (No in step 602), the winnings for the undrawn lots cannot be held any longer, so the process for winning at the first start port 121 is terminated.

  On the other hand, when the number of reservations U1 is less than the upper limit value (Yes in Step 602), the special symbol lottery unit 231 then adds 1 to the value of the number of reservations U1 (Step 603). Then, a random value for the lottery by the current winning is obtained and stored in the RAM 203 (step 604). Here, since the first starting port 121 is won, a random number value for special symbol lottery is acquired. The random value acquired at this time is the value updated by the random number update process in step 501. And the result of the special symbol lottery is determined by this random number value. The random value here is a jackpot random value that determines jackpot, jackpot or loss, jackpot type (presence / absence of short-time gaming state after jackpot game, presence / absence of probabilistic gaming state, jackpot / short hit) A design random number value to be determined (a jackpot symbol random number value), a variation pattern random number for specifying a variation pattern in symbol variation, a reach random number value for determining whether or not to perform a reachable effect, and the like are included.

Next, the special symbol lottery unit 231 performs a pre-determination process for performing a notice effect of the lottery result on a winning ball (holding ball) for which a special symbol variation display operation is suspended (that is, an undrawn lottery). Perform (step 605). In this pre-determination process, the lottery result is determined not at the start of symbol variation but at the start opening prize (that is, at step 605). In addition, in the gaming machine that does not perform the notice effect of the lottery result, this prior determination process may be omitted.
Thereafter, the special symbol lottery unit 231 sets a command for increasing the number of held U1 to notify the effect control unit 300 of the increase in the number of held U1 in Step 603 in the RAM 203 (Step 606), and wins a prize at the first start port 121 The process for is terminated. When the preliminary determination process in step 605 is performed, the information on the determination result of the preliminary determination obtained in step 605 is included in the pending number U1 increase command.

  Next, a process for winning in the second start port 122 is performed. Referring to FIG. 6, next, the special symbol lottery unit 231 determines whether or not the game ball has won the second start port 122 and the second start port switch 212 is turned on (step 607). If the second start port switch 212 is turned on, then the special symbol lottery unit 231 determines whether or not the number U2 of unreserved hold numbers in the winning of the second start port 122 is less than the upper limit (step). 608). In the example shown in FIG. 6, the upper limit value is four. If the number of holds U2 has reached the upper limit (No in step 608), the winning for the undrawn lots cannot be held any longer, and the process for winning at the second start port 122 is terminated.

  On the other hand, when the reserved number U2 is less than the upper limit value (Yes in Step 608), the special symbol lottery unit 231 next adds 1 to the value of the reserved number U2 (Step 609). Then, a random value for the lottery by the current winning is acquired and stored in the RAM 203 (step 610). Here, since the winning of the second starting port 122 is won, a random number value for special symbol lottery (a jackpot random number, a jackpot symbol random number, a reach random number, a variation pattern random number, etc.) is acquired as in step 604 above. The random value acquired at this time is the value updated by the random number update process in step 501. And the result of the special symbol lottery is determined by this random number value.

Next, the special symbol lottery unit 231 performs a pre-determination process for performing a notice effect of the lottery result on a winning ball (holding ball) for which a special symbol variation display operation is suspended (that is, an undrawn lottery). Perform (step 611). The contents of this preliminary determination process are the same as in step 605 above. This pre-determination process may also be omitted in gaming machines that do not perform the notice effect of the lottery result.
Thereafter, the special symbol lottery unit 231 sets a command for increasing the number of held U2 for notifying the effect control unit 300 of the increase in the number of held U2 in step 609 in the RAM 203 (step 612), and wins a prize at the second start port 122 The process for is terminated. When the preliminary determination process in step 611 is performed, the information on the determination result of the preliminary determination obtained in step 611 is included in the pending number U2 increase command.

[Gate switch processing in game control unit]
Next, the gate switch process among the switch processes shown in step 502 of FIG. 5 will be described. In the present embodiment, when the game ball passes through the gate 124L in the left region of the game board 111 and the game ball passes through the gate 124R in the right region of the game board 111 of the two gates 124, the gate The contents of switch processing are different. Specifically, when a game ball passes through the gate 124L, a preliminary determination is made based on a random number used in the normal symbol lottery triggered by this.

FIG. 7-1 is a flowchart showing the contents of the gate switch process when a game ball passes through the gate 124L.
In this gate switch process, the normal symbol lottery unit 232 of the game control unit 200 first determines whether or not the game ball passes through the gate 124 and the gate switch 214 is turned on (step 701). If the gate switch 214 is turned on, then the normal symbol lottery unit 232 determines whether or not the number of holds G for the undrawn lot is less than the upper limit value (step 702). In the example shown in FIG. 7A, the upper limit value is four. If the number of holds G has reached the upper limit (No in Step 702), the winning for the undrawn lots cannot be held any more, so the gate switch process is terminated.

  On the other hand, when the number of reservations G is less than the upper limit (Yes in Step 702), the normal symbol lottery unit 232 next adds 1 to the value of the number of reservations G (Step 703). Then, a random value for the lottery by the current winning is obtained and stored in the RAM 203 (step 704). Here, since the gate 124 is won, a random number value (such as a winning random number) for normal symbol lottery is acquired.

  After the random number value is acquired in step 704, the normal symbol lottery unit 232 performs a notice effect of the lottery result for the winning ball (holding ball) for which the normal symbol variation display operation is held (that is, not drawn). Pre-determination processing is performed for performing (Step 705). In this pre-determination process, the lottery result is determined not at the start of symbol variation but at the time of winning a gate (that is, at step 705).

  Thereafter, the normal symbol lottery unit 232 sets a command for increasing the number of held G to notify the effect control unit 300 of the increase in the number of held G in step 703 in the RAM 203 (step 706), and performs a process for winning in the gate 124L. finish. The retained number G increase command set when winning the gate 124L includes information on the determination result of the preliminary determination obtained in step 705 (preliminary determination information).

FIG. 7-2 is a flowchart showing the contents of the gate switch process when the game ball passes through the gate 124R.
In the operation shown in FIG. 7B, the operation from step 711 to step 714 is the same as the operation from step 701 to step 704 shown in FIG.

  After the random number value is acquired in step 714, the normal symbol lottery unit 232 sets a RAM number increase command to the effect control unit 300 to notify the effect control unit 300 of the increase in the hold number G in step 713 (step 715). Then, the process for winning in the gate 124R is terminated.

  As described above, in the gate switch processing according to the present embodiment, the information related to the holding of the normal symbol lottery is also notified in the effect using the image display unit 114 and the like, and a command for increasing the holding number G is generated. 5 is transmitted from the game control unit 200 to the effect control unit 300 in the output process (step 506) shown in FIG. In the present embodiment, the holding number G is increased without distinguishing between the case where the game ball passes through the gate 124L and the case where the game ball passes through the gate 124R (steps 703 and 713). On the other hand, each of the gates 124L, 124R is counted as if the holding number U1 when winning the first starting port 121 and the holding number U2 when winning the second starting port 122 are individually counted in the starting port switch process. The number of holds may be counted by distinguishing the winnings. In this case, in the display 130 shown in FIG. 2A, it is necessary to provide the normal symbol hold display 220 for each gate 124.

[Special symbol processing in game control unit]
FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the contents of the special symbol processing of the symbol processing shown in step 503 of FIG.
In this special symbol process, the special symbol variation control unit 233 of the game control unit 200 first checks whether or not the winning game flag is ON in the setting of a flag set in the RAM 203 (hereinafter, flag setting) ( Step 801). Here, when the result of the special symbol lottery is a big win or a small win, the win game flag is a flag that is set to identify a game state corresponding to these wins. Depending on the hit type, one of the long hit game flag, the short hit game flag, and the small hit game flag is set. In the present embodiment, these are collectively called a winning game flag.

  When the winning game flag is ON, since the pachinko gaming machine 100 is already in a gaming state due to some kind of hitting (a state where the special symbol is selected and stopped), the special symbol processing is terminated without starting the special symbol variation. (Yes in step 801). On the other hand, if the winning game flag is OFF (No in Step 801), the special symbol variation control unit 233 next determines whether or not the current state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 is in the special symbol variation (Step 802). . When the special symbol is not changing (No in step 802), the special symbol fluctuation control unit 233 performs processing related to the number of holdings U1 and U2 (see FIG. 6) for the undrawn special symbol (steps 803 to 806). . In the present embodiment, the number of holds U1 related to winning of the first start port 121 and the number of holds U2 related to winning of the second start port 122 are distinguished, so this processing is also performed for each corresponding start port. .

  Specifically, the special symbol variation control unit 233 first determines whether or not the number of holds U2 related to winning in the second start port 122 is 1 or more (step 803). When the number of reservations U2 is 1 or more (Yes in Step 803), the special symbol variation control unit 233 subtracts 1 from the value of the number of reservations U2 (Step 804). On the other hand, if the hold number U2 = 0 (No in step 803), the special symbol variation control unit 233 next determines whether the hold number U1 related to winning in the first start port 121 is 1 or more (step 805). . When the number of reservations U1 is 1 or more (Yes in Step 805), the special symbol variation control unit 233 subtracts 1 from the value of the number of reservations U1 (Step 806). On the other hand, if the number of holdings U1 = 0 (No in step 805), it means that there is no winning for starting the special symbol lottery, so the special symbol change is not started, and the waiting for a different routine is set. The process is executed and the process is terminated (step 816).

  After subtracting the holding number U1 or the holding number U2 in step 804 or step 806, the special symbol variation control unit 233 turns off the customer waiting flag set in the flag setting of the RAM 203 (step 807). The customer waiting flag is a flag for identifying that the pachinko gaming machine 100 is in a customer waiting state, and is set in the customer waiting setting process.

  Next, the special symbol variation control unit 233 executes jackpot determination processing and variation pattern selection processing by separate routines (steps 808 and 809). As will be described in detail later, setting information (design, game state, variation pattern, etc.) included in the variation start command sent to the effect control unit 300 is determined by the jackpot determination processing and variation pattern selection processing.

  Thereafter, the special symbol variation control unit 233 is displayed by the first special symbol display unit 221 and the second special symbol display unit 222 shown in FIG. 2 based on the setting contents determined in the jackpot determination process and the variation pattern selection process. The special symbol change is started (step 810). Then, a change start command including setting information (symbol, gaming state, change pattern, etc.) indicating the setting contents is generated and set in the RAM 203 (step 811). The variation start command set in step 811 is transmitted to the effect control unit 300 by the output process shown in step 506 of FIG.

  If it is determined in step 802 that the special symbol is changing (Yes in step 802), or after the change start command is set in step 811, the special symbol fluctuation control unit 233 determines whether or not the fluctuation time has elapsed. (Step 812). That is, it is determined whether or not the elapsed time since the start of the variation of the special symbol at step 810 has reached the variation time set in the variation pattern selection process at step 809. If the variation time has not elapsed (No in step 812), the special symbol variation is continued, and the special symbol processing is terminated as it is.

  On the other hand, when the variation time has elapsed (Yes in step 812), the special symbol variation control unit 233 first determines the special symbol variation in the first special symbol display 221 and the second special symbol display 222 as a big hit in step 808. Stop at the symbol determined in the determination process (step 813). A change stop command including the information of the symbol when the change of the special symbol is stopped is set in the RAM 203 (step 814). Then, a stop routine process of another routine is executed (step 815). The contents of the stop process will be described later. The change stop command set in step 814 is transmitted to the effect control unit 300 by the output process shown in step 506 of FIG.

[Big hit judgment processing by game control unit]
FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the contents of the jackpot determination process (step 808 in FIG. 8).
In this jackpot determination process, the special symbol lottery result determination unit 234 of the game control unit 200 first determines a jackpot random number in the current special symbol lottery (step 901), and determines whether or not the jackpot or small hit is made. (Steps 902 and 905). The value of the jackpot random number acquired at step 604 or step 610 in FIG. 6 matches the value set as the winning value of the jackpot or the value set as the winning value of the jackpot. It is determined by judging whether or not (see FIG. 17A).

If the result of the random number determination in step 901 is a big hit (Yes in step 902), then the special symbol lottery result determination unit 234 determines a big hit symbol random number (step 903). Depending on the result of this determination, the type of jackpot (any of probability variation + time reduction, probability variation + no time shortage, no probability variation + time shortage, no probability variation + no time shortage) is determined. Which jackpot is determined is determined by whether the value of the jackpot symbol random number acquired in step 604 of FIG. 6 matches one of the preset values for each jackpot type (FIG. 17B )reference).
After the above determination, the special symbol lottery result determination unit 234 sets the symbol representing the type of jackpot determined by the determination of the jackpot symbol random number (the jackpot symbol) as setting information in the RAM 203 (step 904).

  When the result of the random number determination in step 901 is a small hit (No in step 902, Yes in step 905), the special symbol lottery result determination unit 234 next displays a symbol indicating a small hit (hereinafter referred to as a small hit symbol). ) As setting information in the RAM 203 (step 906).

  If the result of the random number determination in step 901 is neither big win nor small win (No in step 902 and step 905), then the special symbol lottery result determination unit 234 indicates that the lottery has been lost (hereinafter referred to as a lost symbol). Is set in the RAM 203 as setting information (step 907).

[Change pattern selection process by game control unit]
FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the contents of the variation pattern selection process (step 809 in FIG. 8).
In this variation pattern selection process, the variation pattern selection unit 235 of the game control unit 200 first determines whether or not a big win has been won in this special symbol lottery (step 1001). This determination is the same as steps 901 and 902 of the jackpot determination process (FIG. 9) (the determination result of step 902 may be used). If it is a big hit (Yes in Step 1001), the fluctuation pattern selection unit 235 reads the big hit fluctuation pattern table from the ROM 202 and sets it in the RAM 203 (Step 1002).

On the other hand, if the jackpot has not been won (No in step 1001), the variation pattern selection unit 235 then determines a random number for determining whether or not to perform a so-called reach effect for causing the player to expect a jackpot. (Step 1003). Whether or not the reach effect is performed is determined by determining whether or not the reach random number value acquired in step 604 of FIG. 6 matches a preset value (see FIG. 17C).
As a result of determination using random numbers, when a reach effect is performed (Yes in step 1004), the variation pattern selection unit 235 reads a variation pattern table for reach from the ROM 202 and sets it in the RAM 203 (step 1005). When the reach effect is not performed (No in Step 1004), the variation pattern selection unit 235 reads the variation pattern table for loss from the ROM 202 and sets it in the RAM 203 (Step 1006).
Here, the variation pattern table is a table in which a plurality of variation patterns (variation times 10 seconds, 30 seconds, 60 seconds, 90 seconds, etc.) prepared in advance are associated with values of variation pattern random numbers.

  Next, the variation pattern selection unit 235 determines the variation pattern random number using the variation pattern random number acquired in Step 604 or Step 610 of FIG. 6 and the variation pattern table set in Steps 1002, 1005, and 1006 ( Step 1007). That is, the fluctuation pattern selection unit 235 refers to the fluctuation pattern table set in the RAM 203 and selects a fluctuation pattern corresponding to the random value of the fluctuation pattern random number. Therefore, even if the same random number value is acquired, the variation referred to depending on the state difference such as whether or not the result of the special symbol lottery is a big hit or not and whether or not a reach effect is performed if it is not a big hit Since the pattern tables are different, the determined variation pattern may be different.

  Thereafter, the variation pattern selection unit 235 sets the variation pattern selected in Step 1007 in the RAM 203 as setting information (Step 1008). The variation pattern setting information set in step 1008 is included in the variation start command set in step 811 of FIG. 8, and is transmitted to the effect control unit 300 by the output process shown in step 506 of FIG.

[Processing during stop by game control unit]
FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the contents of the stop process (step 815 in FIG. 8).
In this stop process, the game progress control unit 236 of the game control unit 200 first checks whether or not the time reduction flag is ON in the flag setting of the RAM 203 (step 1101). The short time flag is a flag for identifying that the gaming state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 is the short time gaming state. When the time-short flag is ON (Yes in Step 1101), the game progress control unit 236 subtracts 1 from the value of the number of lotteries (number of fluctuations) J in the time-short game state (Step 1102), and the number of lotteries J becomes 0. It is checked whether or not (step 1103). If the number of lotteries J = 0 (Yes in Step 1103), the time reduction flag is turned OFF (Step 1104). It should be noted that the operation for turning on the hourly flag and the setting of the initial value of the lottery number J are performed in a game state setting process (FIG. 15) in a special winning opening process (FIG. 14) described later.

  If the time reduction flag is OFF (No in step 1101), or after the time reduction flag is turned OFF in step 1104, or if the value of the number of times of lottery J is not 0 (No in step 1103), then the game progress control unit 236 Checks whether or not the probability variation flag is ON in the flag setting of the RAM 203 (step 1105). The probability variation flag is a flag for identifying that the gaming state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 is a probability variation game. When both the probability change flag and the previous time reduction flag are ON, generally, the game state has a probability change and time reduction as performed after a long hit, and the probability change flag is ON and the time reduction flag is OFF. In some cases, the game is generally in a gaming state where the probability change is made after a short win but the time is not short.

  When the probability change flag is ON (Yes in Step 1105), the game progress control unit 236 subtracts 1 from the value of the number of lotteries (number of variations) X in the probability variation game state (Step 1106), and the number of lotteries X is set to 0. It is checked whether or not (step 1107). If the number of times of lottery X = 0 (Yes in Step 1107), the probability variation flag is turned OFF (Step 1108). Note that the operation for turning on the probability change flag and the setting of the initial value of the lottery number X are performed in a game state setting process (FIG. 15) in a special prize opening process (FIG. 14) described later.

  If the probability change flag is OFF (No in step 1105), or after the probability change flag is turned OFF in step 1108, or if the value of the lottery count X is not 0 (No in step 1107), then the game progress control unit 236 Determines whether or not a big win has been won in this special symbol lottery (step 1109). If it is a big hit (Yes in Step 1109), the game progress control unit 236 next determines whether or not the type of big hit is a long win (Step 1110).

  These determinations can be made based on the type of symbol set in the setting information in the jackpot determination process (FIG. 9). For example, when the normal symbol A or the probability variation symbol A is set among symbols shown in the diagram of FIG. 17B described later, it is determined that the jackpot type is long hit. Further, when the normal symbol B, the probability variation symbol B or the latent probability symbol is set, it is determined that the type of jackpot is short hit. Therefore, if the normal symbol A or the probable variation symbol A is set in the setting information, “Yes” in both steps 1109 and 1110. If the normal symbol B, the probability variation symbol B, or the latent probability symbol is set, Yes in step 1109 and No in step 1110. If the off symbol or the small hit symbol is set, No in step 1109. Since these determinations are substantially the same as steps 902, 903, and 905 of the jackpot determination process (FIG. 9), the determination results of steps 902, 903, and 905 may be used.

  When the jackpot type is a long hit (Yes in Step 1110), the game progress control unit 236 turns on the long hit game flag (Step 1111). Thereby, the setting of the gaming state in the RAM 203 becomes a jackpot gaming state (long winning gaming state) in which the jackpot type is long winning. Here, the presence / absence of probability fluctuation is not distinguished in the per unit length. The presence / absence of the probability change is specified by turning on the corresponding flag in the gaming state setting process (FIG. 15) in the special prize opening process (FIG. 14) described later.

  When the big hit type is not long hit (No in Step 1110), the game progress control unit 236 turns on the short hit game flag (Step 1112). Thereby, the setting of the gaming state in the RAM 203 becomes a big hit gaming state (short winning gaming state) in which the big hit type is short hit.

  After the winning game flag is turned ON in step 1111 or step 1112, the game progress control unit 236 initializes the values of the lottery times J and X (step 1113). That is, since the special symbol lottery was a big win (step 1109), the lottery times J and X are reset to 0 and newly counted again. Further, the game progress control unit 236 turns off the time reduction flag when the time reduction flag is ON in step 1101 and the lottery count J is not 0 in step 1103 (step 1114). Similarly, if the probability variation flag is ON in step 1105 and the lottery count X is not 0 in step 1107, the probability variation flag is turned OFF (step 1114).

On the other hand, when the result of the special symbol lottery this time is not a big hit (No in Step 1109), the game progress control unit 236 determines whether or not the result of the special symbol lottery this time is a big hit (Step). 1115). If it is not a small hit (No in step 1115), the in-stop process is terminated.
On the other hand, if it is a small hit (Yes in step 1115), the game progress control unit 236 turns on the small hit game flag (step 1116). Thereby, the setting of the gaming state in the RAM 203 becomes the small hit gaming state.

After initializing the values of the lottery times J and X in step 1113 and turning on the small hit game flag in step 1116, the game progress control unit 236 starts an opening operation (step 1117). Here, the contents of the opening operation differ depending on which of steps 1111, 1112, and 1116 the winning game flag is turned on. In other words, depending on the state of the winning game flag, one of the opening operations set in each gaming state of the long winning game, the short winning game, and the small winning game is performed.
Thereafter, the game progress control unit 236 sets an opening command for performing an effect in the opening operation corresponding to the winning game flag in the effect control unit 300 in the RAM 203 (step 1118), and ends the in-stop process. This opening command is transmitted to the effect control unit 300 by the output process shown in step 506 of FIG.

[Customer waiting setting process by game control unit]
FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the contents of the customer waiting setting process (step 816 in FIG. 8).
In this customer waiting setting process, the game progress control unit 236 of the game control unit 200 first checks whether or not the customer waiting flag is ON in the flag setting of the RAM 203 (step 1201). Here, the customer waiting flag is a flag that is set to identify that the pachinko gaming machine 100 is in a customer waiting state.

  When the customer waiting flag is ON, since the pachinko gaming machine 100 is in the customer waiting state, the processing is ended as it is (Yes in step 1201). On the other hand, when the customer waiting flag is OFF, the game progress control unit 236 generates a customer waiting command and sets it in the RAM 203 (step 1202), and turns on the customer waiting flag (step 1203). The customer waiting command set in step 1202 is transmitted to the effect control unit 300 by the output process shown in step 506 of FIG.

[Normal symbol processing by game control unit]
FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the contents of the normal symbol processing in the symbol processing shown in step 503 of FIG.
In this normal symbol process, the normal symbol control unit 237 of the game control unit 200 first checks whether or not the auxiliary game flag is ON in the flag setting of the RAM 203 (step 1301). Here, the auxiliary game flag is a flag that is set in order to identify a game state (auxiliary game state) corresponding to a normal symbol lottery when winning. In the auxiliary gaming state, the electric tulip 123 is opened according to the electric tulip process (FIG. 16) described later, and the second start port 122 is easily won (assisted).

  When the auxiliary game flag is ON, the normal symbol is already selected and stopped, so the normal symbol processing is terminated without starting the normal symbol variation (Yes in step 1301). On the other hand, when the auxiliary game flag is OFF (No in Step 1301), the normal symbol control unit 237 next determines whether or not the current state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 is changing the normal symbol (Step 1302). If the normal symbol is not changing (No in step 1302), then the normal symbol control unit 237 determines whether or not the number G of the normal symbols to be reserved (see FIGS. 7-1 and 7-2) is 1 or more (see FIG. 7). Step 1303). If the holding number G = 0 (No in step 1303), it means that there is no winning for starting the normal symbol lottery, and therefore the processing is terminated without starting the normal symbol variation.

  On the other hand, when the reserved number G is 1 or more (Yes in step 1303), the normal symbol control unit 237 subtracts 1 from the value of the reserved number G (step 1304), and the random number in the current normal symbol lottery is calculated. A determination is made to determine whether or not the normal symbol lottery has been won (step 1305). Whether winning or not is determined by the value of the winning random number acquired in step 704 of FIG. 7-1 and step 714 of FIG. 7-2 set as a winning value in the table shown in FIG. It is determined by judging whether or not it matches.

  Next, the normal symbol control unit 237 sets the normal symbol in accordance with the result of the normal symbol lottery (step 1306). That is, when a normal symbol lottery is won, a symbol representing the winning (hereinafter referred to as a winning symbol) is set in the RAM 203 as setting information. On the other hand, when the normal symbol lottery is not won, a symbol indicating that the lottery has been lost (hereinafter referred to as a lost symbol) is set in the RAM 203 as setting information.

  Next, the normal symbol control unit 237 sets the variation time of the normal symbol (step 1307). This variation time is set based on the time reduction flag set in the processing of steps 1104 and 1114 in FIG. 11, step 1506 in FIG. That is, when the time reduction flag is ON in the setting in step 1307, it is set to a short time (for example, 1.5 seconds), and when the time reduction flag is OFF, it is set to a long time (for example, 4.0 seconds). Is set. After this setting, the normal symbol control unit 237 starts normal symbol fluctuations in the normal symbol display 223 shown in FIG. 2 based on the setting contents of Step 1307 (Step 1308).

  After starting normal symbol variation in step 1308 or when it is determined in step 1302 that normal symbol variation is in progress (Yes in step 1302), the normal symbol control unit 237 determines whether or not the variation time has elapsed. (Step 1309). That is, it is determined whether or not the elapsed time from the start of normal symbol fluctuation in step 1308 has reached the fluctuation time set in step 1307. If the fluctuation time has not elapsed (No in step 1309), the normal symbol variation is continued, and the normal symbol processing is terminated as it is.

  On the other hand, when the variation time has ended (Yes in step 1309), the normal symbol control unit 237 stops the variation of the normal symbol in the normal symbol display 223 (step 1310). Then, the normal symbol control unit 237 determines whether or not the normal symbol lottery is won based on the stopped normal symbol (step 1311). If it is elected (Yes in Step 1311), the auxiliary game flag is turned ON (Step 1312). On the other hand, if the lottery is off (No in step 1311), the normal symbol process is terminated without turning on the auxiliary game flag.

  As described in the description of the gate switch processing (see FIGS. 7-1 and 7-2), when counting the number of holdings for each of the plurality of gates 124, the number of holdings is determined in step 1303 and the number of holdings in step 1304. This subtraction must be performed for each corresponding gate 124 in the same manner as the handling of the number of reservations in the special symbol processing (see step 803 to step 806).

[Large winning mouth processing by game control unit]
FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the contents of the big prize opening process in the electric accessory process shown in Step 504 of FIG.
In this special winning opening process, the special winning opening operation control unit 238 of the game control unit 200 first checks whether or not the winning game flag is ON in the flag setting of the RAM 203 (step 1401). If the winning game flag is OFF, there is no prize winning in the big prize opening 125, so the big prize opening process is terminated (No in step 1401). On the other hand, if the winning game flag is ON (Yes in Step 1401), the special winning opening operation control unit 238 next performs the operation control at the time of the big hit started in the pachinko gaming machine 100 being stopped (FIG. 11). It is determined whether or not the opening operation is in progress (step 1402).

  When the pachinko gaming machine 100 is opening (Yes in Step 1402), the next prize opening operation control unit 238 determines whether or not a predetermined time for opening operation (opening time) has elapsed. Judgment is made (step 1403). If the opening time has not elapsed, the opening operation at the special winning opening 125 is continued, and the special winning opening process is terminated (No in step 1403). On the other hand, if the opening time has elapsed (Yes in step 1403), the special winning opening operation control unit 238 next sets the operation of the special winning opening 125 (step 1404) and initializes the winning number C (C = 0) (step 1405), the value of the number of operation rounds R of the big prize opening 125 is incremented by 1 from the current value (step 1406), and the big prize opening 125 is started (opened) (step 1407).

  In the operation setting of step 1404, the operation pattern of the special winning opening 125 and the number of rounds (operation round number) operated by the operation pattern are set. As the case where the big prize opening 125 is operated, there are a case where it is a big win per long or short in a special symbol lottery and a case where it is a small win. The operation pattern and the number of rounds are variously set according to the hit type. In the case of a long hit, for example, 15 rounds (15R) are operated, and 29.5 seconds are released once in one round. In the case of a short hit, for example, 15 rounds (15R) are operated, and one round is performed once for 0.1 seconds. In the case of a small hit, for example, one round (1R) is operated, and 0.1 second is released 15 times in this round. Here, when the operation with short hits and the operation with small hits are compared in the above examples, both 0.1 seconds of opening is performed 15 times. That is, the action of the big winning opening 125 that can be seen by the player is the same for the case of short win and the case of small win, and the short win and the small win are distinguished only from the action of the big winning opening 125 on the game board 110. I can't do it.

  As another example, 15 rounds (15R) are activated per long, 29.5 seconds are released once per round, 2 rounds (2R) are activated per short, and 0 are rounded per round. .9 seconds are opened twice, and with a small hit, one round (1R) is operated, and 0.9 seconds is opened twice in this round. In this case as well, when the operation with short hits and the operation with small hits are compared, both 0.9 seconds are released twice, and the action of the big prize opening 125 that can be seen by the player is in the case of short hits. It is the same in the case of small hits.

  The law stipulates that the cumulative opening time of the special winning opening 125 must be set within 1.8 seconds for a small hit. On the other hand, in the case of a big hit (long hit or short win), the big winning opening 125 must be continuously opened a plurality of times. Therefore, when trying to make it difficult to visually distinguish the operation with a small hit and the operation with a short hit as described above, within the range that satisfies the cumulative open time within 1.8 seconds in one operation, An operation mode in which the big prize opening 125 is opened two or more times is set, and in the short win, the same number of rounds as the number of small hits is set.

  Next, the special winning opening operation control unit 238 determines whether or not the opening time in the operation pattern set in Step 1404 has elapsed (Step 1408). When the open state at the big prize opening 125 has not passed the opening time (No in step 1408), the big prize opening operation control unit 238 then determines that the number C of winning prizes to the big prize opening 125 is a predetermined number (for example, It is determined whether or not (9) or more (step 1409). If the opening time has not elapsed and the number C of winning prizes is less than the prescribed number, the operating state (opening state) of the big winning opening 125 is continued, so that the big winning opening process is terminated (step 1409). No). On the other hand, if the opening time has passed (Yes in Step 1408) or the winning number C has reached the specified number (Yes in Step 1409), the special winning opening operation controller 238 ends the operation of the special winning opening 125 ( (Step 1410).

  Next, the special winning opening operation control unit 238 determines whether or not the round number R of the operation of the special winning opening 125 has reached the maximum value set in Step 1404 (Step 1411). If the maximum value has not been reached, the remaining operations are performed, and the special winning opening process is terminated (No in step 1411).

If the number of rounds R of the operation of the special prize opening 125 reaches the maximum value (Yes in Step 1411), the special prize opening operation control unit 238 then starts the ending operation (Step 1412). Here, the content of the ending operation corresponds to the state of the winning game flag among the ending operations set in each gaming state of long hit game, short hit game, and small hit game.
Thereafter, the special winning opening operation control unit 238 sets an ending command for performing the effect in the ending operation according to the winning game flag in the effect control unit 300 in the RAM 203 (step 1413). This opening command is transmitted to the effect control unit 300 by the output process shown in step 506 of FIG.

  Next, the prize winning opening operation control unit 238 resets the round number R of the action of the prize winning opening 125 to 0 (step 1414), and then performs an ending operation in which an elapsed time from the start of the ending operation is set in advance. It is determined whether or not the time to be played (ending time) has passed (step 1417). If the ending time has not elapsed, the ending operation is continued, and thus the big prize opening process is terminated (No in step 1417). On the other hand, if the ending time has elapsed (Yes in Step 1417), the special winning opening operation unit 238 next performs the game state setting process (Step 1418), and then turns off the winning game flag to make a big prize. The mouth process is terminated (step 1419). The contents of the game state setting process will be described later.

  If it is determined in step 1402 that the pachinko gaming machine 100 is not opening (No in step 1402), the special winning opening operation control unit 238 determines whether or not ending is in progress (step 1415). If ending is in progress (Yes in step 1415), the operations after step 1417 are executed.

  On the other hand, if the pachinko gaming machine 100 is not ending (No in step 1415), the special prize opening operation control unit 238 determines whether or not the special prize opening 125 is operating (opening) (step 1416). . If it is not in operation (No in Step 1416), the operation after Step 1405 is executed. If it is in operation (Yes in Step 1416), the operation after Step 1408 is executed.

[Game state setting process]
FIG. 15 shows the contents of the game state setting process (step 1418) executed when the ending time has elapsed (Yes in step 1417).
As shown in FIG. 15, first of all, since the winning game flag is ON in step 1401 of FIG. 14, the special winning opening operation control unit 238 determines the type of winning (steps 1501, 1502, 1503, 1506). These determinations can be made based on, for example, the type of symbol set as setting information in the RAM 203 in the jackpot determination process (FIG. 9). Since these determinations are substantially the same as steps 902, 903, and 905 of the jackpot determination process (FIG. 9), the determination results of steps 902, 903, and 905 may be used.

If the win type is a small win (Yes in step 1501), the gaming state (internal state of the pachinko gaming machine 100) is not changed, so the gaming state setting process is terminated.
If the winning type is a big hit with no positive change + a short time (No at step 1501, Yes at steps 1502 and 1503), the special winning opening operation control unit 238 turns on the short flag (step 1504). Thereby, the setting of the gaming state in the RAM 203 becomes the short-time gaming state. Further, the special winning opening operation controller 238 sets an initial value of the lottery number J (step 1505) and ends the gaming state setting process. The initial value of the lottery number J is 100 in the illustrated example. Therefore, if the lottery in the short-time gaming state is performed 100 times, the short-time gaming state ends.

  On the other hand, when the winning type is a big hit with no probability change + no time reduction (No in step 1501, Yes in 1502, No in step 1503), the special winning opening operation control unit 238 does not set both the time reduction flag and the probability change flag to ON. The process ends. Therefore, the setting of the game state of the RAM 203 for the game after the jackpot does not result in a short-time game state or a probabilistic game state.

  When the winning type is a big hit with certain change + short time (No at Steps 1501 and 1502, Yes at Step 1506), the winning prize opening operation control unit 238 turns on the hourly flag (Step 1507), and the number of lottery times J Is set (step 1508). In this case, the initial value of the number of times of lottery J is 10,000 in the illustrated example. Further, the special winning opening operation control unit 238 sets the probability variation flag to ON (step 1509) and sets the initial value of the lottery number X (step 1510). The initial value of the number of times of lottery X is 10,000 in the illustrated example. Thereby, the setting of the gaming state in the RAM 203 becomes a time-varying probability changing gaming state. If the lottery is performed 10,000 times in the time-varying probability variation game state, the time-variable probability variation game state ends.

  On the other hand, when the winning type is a big hit with probability variation + no time reduction (No in steps 1501, 1502, and step 1506), the big prize opening operation control unit 238 turns on only the probability variation flag (step 1509), and the number of lotteries An initial value of X (10000 times) is set (step 1510). As a result, the game state of the RAM 203 is set to a probabilistic gaming state in which time is not set. If the lottery in the timeless probability change game state is performed 10,000 times, the timeless probability change game state ends.

[Electric tulip processing by game control unit]
FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing the contents of the electric tulip process in the electric accessory process shown in Step 504 of FIG.
In the electric tulip process, the electric tulip operation control unit 239 of the game control unit 200 first checks whether or not the auxiliary game flag is ON in the flag setting of the RAM 203 (step 1601). When the auxiliary game flag is OFF, the electric tulip 123 is not released, and thus the electric tulip process is terminated (No in step 1601). On the other hand, when the auxiliary game flag is ON (Yes in Step 1601), the electric tulip operation control unit 239 determines whether the electric tulip 123 is in operation (Step 1602).

  When the electric tulip 123 is not in operation (No in step 1602), the electric tulip operation control unit 239 sets the operation pattern of the electric tulip 123 (step 1603), and operates the electric tulip 123 with the set operation pattern ( Step 1604). Here, the operation pattern is set based on the time reduction flag set in the processing of steps 1104 and 1114 in FIG. 11, steps 1503 and 1506 in FIG. For example, when the time reduction flag is OFF at the time of setting in step 1603, an operation pattern that opens once with a release time of 0.15 seconds is set, and when the time reduction flag is ON, 1.80 seconds are set. An operation pattern that opens three times in the opening time is set. As described above, normally, when the hourly flag is ON (when the hourly gaming state is set), the electric tulip 123 is opened a plurality of times for a long time, and the winning support that makes it easy to win the second starting port 122 (electric chewing support) ) Is performed.

  When it is determined in step 1602 that the electric tulip 123 is in operation (Yes in step 1602), or after the electric tulip 123 is operated in step 1604, the electric tulip operation control unit 239 opens in the set operation pattern. It is determined whether time has passed (step 1605). If the opening time has not elapsed, the operation state (open state) of the electric tulip 123 is continued, and thus the electric tulip process is terminated (No in step 1605). On the other hand, if the opening time has elapsed (Yes in step 1605), the electric tulip operation control unit 239 sets the auxiliary game flag to OFF and ends the electric tulip process (step 1606).

[Random number judgment method]
Here, a determination method using random numbers performed in the jackpot determination process (FIG. 9), the variation pattern selection process (FIG. 10), the normal symbol process (FIG. 13), and the like will be described in detail.
FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of random numbers used in the present embodiment.
17A shows a configuration example of a jackpot random number, FIG. 17B shows a configuration example of a jackpot symbol random number, FIG. 17C shows a configuration example of a reach random number, and FIG. Configuration examples are shown respectively.

  Referring to FIG. 17 (a), the jackpot random number is set to two types, that is, a jackpot at normal time when the gaming state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 does not change, a jackpot at the time of probability change, and a jackpot. The range of values of random numbers (big hit random numbers) is 300 from 0 to 299. In the case of a special symbol lottery (a jackpot lottery) during normal times, only one winning value is set and the winning probability is 1/300. In the case of special symbol lottery at the time of probability change, ten winning values are set, and the winning probability is 10/300 (= 1/30). In other words, in the example shown in the figure, if the special symbol lottery is performed by winning at the start ports 121 and 122 at the time of the probability change, the winning probability is 10 times as compared with the case where the special symbol lottery is performed at the normal time. In addition, three winning values are set regardless of whether or not the probability changes, and the winning probability is 3/300 (= 1/100).

  Referring to FIG. 17B, there are five types of jackpot symbols: normal symbol A, normal symbol B, probability variation symbol A, probability variation symbol B, and latent probability symbol. Here, the normal symbol A and the normal symbol B are symbols representing a big hit without any probability change. Among them, the normal symbol A has a long hit (with a short time), and the normal symbol B has a short hit (without a short time). Represent. The probability variation symbol A and the probability variation symbol B are symbols representing a jackpot with certain probability variation. Of these symbols, the probability variation symbol A represents a long winning (with time reduction), and the probability variation symbol B represents a short winning (without time shortening). The latent pattern is a pattern that represents a jackpot with certainty + short time. Therefore, the probability variation symbol B and the latent probability symbol have the same gaming state after the jackpot game, but the latent probability symbol is provided separately from the probability variation symbol B in order to execute a latent mode described later. The range of random number values is 250 from 0 to 249. In addition, in the jackpot symbol random number, a winning value is set for each of the first start port 121 and the second start port 122 that trigger the special symbol lottery.

In the normal symbol A, 35 values are assigned as winning values for both the first start port 121 and the second start port 122. Therefore, when winning the jackpot, the probability of winning in the normal symbol A (no change in probability + short time) is 35/250 (= 7/50).
In the normal symbol B, 15 values are assigned as winning values for both the first start port 121 and the second start port 122. Therefore, when winning a jackpot, the probability of winning in the normal symbol B (no probability change + no time reduction) is 15/250 (= 3/50).

In the probability variation symbol A, 25 values are assigned as winning values when the first starting port 121 is won. Therefore, the probability of winning in the probability variation symbol A (with certain variation + short time) is 25/250 (= 1/1 /) when winning a big win in the special symbol lottery started by winning the first starting port 121. 10).
On the other hand, 175 values are assigned as winning values when winning at the second start port 122. Therefore, the probability of winning in the probable variation symbol A (with certain variation + short time) is 175/250 (= 7 /) when a big win is won in the special symbol lottery started by winning the second starting port 122. 10).

In the probability variation symbol B, 75 values are assigned as winning values when the first starting port 121 is won. Therefore, the probability of winning in the probable variation symbol B (with certain variation + no short time) when winning a jackpot in the special symbol lottery started by winning the first starting port 121 is 75/250 (= 3 / 10).
On the other hand, 25 values are assigned as winning values when winning at the second start port 122. Therefore, the probability of winning with the probability variation symbol B (with certain variation + no short time) when winning a big win in the special symbol lottery started by winning the second starting port 122 is 25/250 (= 1 / 10).

In the latent symbol, 100 values are assigned as winning values when winning at the first start port 121. Therefore, the probability of winning in the latent symbol (with certainty + no time) is 100/250 (= 2 /) when winning a big win in the special symbol lottery started by winning the first starting port 121. 5).
On the other hand, the winning value in the latent symbol is not assigned to the second starting port 122, and when winning in the second starting port 122, it is not won in the latent symbol.

  As described above, in the example shown in FIG. 17B, the jackpot when winning the first start port 121 is highly likely to be a jackpot (probability variation symbol B, latent probability symbol) with probability variation + no time reduction, There is a high probability that the jackpot when winning at the second start port 122 will be a jackpot with probability variation + short time (probability variation symbol A). In this way, by making the winning probabilities of the jackpot types different when winning at the first start port 121 and when winning at the second start port 122, various game characteristics can be provided. Further, the arrangement of the first start port 121 and the second start port 122 in the game board 110 is devised so that it is easy to aim at either the first start port 121 or the second start port 122 in a specific state (mode). By configuring the above, it is possible to encourage the player to participate in more aggressive games.

  Referring to FIG. 17 (c), the range of random number values is 250 from 0 to 249, and 22 random numbers are assigned to the lottery result (with reach) for performing the reach effect, and the reach effect is not performed. 228 random numbers are assigned to the result (no reach). In other words, in the illustrated example, when a special symbol lottery is not won, a reach effect is performed with a probability of 22/250 (= 11/125).

  Referring to FIG. 17D, the range of the random number value is 10 from 0 to 9, and one value is assigned as the winning value when the time-short flag is OFF, and as the winning value when the time-short flag is ON. Nine values are assigned. Therefore, when the game ball passes through the gate 124 and the normal symbol lottery (open / close lottery) is performed when the short-time gaming state has not occurred, the player wins with a probability of 1/10. On the other hand, when the game ball passes through the gate 124 and the normal symbol lottery (open / close lottery) is performed when the short-time gaming state is occurring, the winning is performed with a probability of 9/10. By using such a table, in the short-time gaming state, there is a very high possibility that the electric tulip 123 will be opened by winning a gate, and a winning support that facilitates winning to the second start port 122 is realized.

These random number values start from a predetermined initial value and are incremented by one each time the random number update process (step 501) shown in FIG. 5 is performed. Then, the values at the time each lottery is performed are acquired by the start opening switch process (FIG. 6) and the gate switch process (FIGS. 7-1 and 7-2), and the special symbol process (FIG. 8) and the normal symbol process ( Used in FIG. 13). Note that this random value counter is an infinite loop counter, and returns to 0 again after reaching the maximum value of the set random number (for example, 299 for the big hit random number). In addition, since the random number update process is performed at regular intervals, if the initial value of each random number is specified, the winning value may be estimated based on such information. Therefore, in general, a mechanism for randomly changing the initial value of each random number at an appropriate timing has been introduced.
Note that the random number range, winning value ratio, and winning value shown in the configuration example of each random number in FIG. 17 are merely examples, and are not limited to the illustrated values.

[Operation of production control unit]
Next, the operation of the effect control unit 300 will be described.
FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing the operation of the effect control unit 300.
The operation of the effect control unit 300 includes a main process shown in FIG. 18A and an interrupt process shown in FIG. Referring to FIG. 18A, the production control unit 300 first performs initial setting at the time of activation (step 1801), sets the cycle of the CTC (Counter / Timer Circuit) (step 1802), and then sets the cycle. Accordingly, the interrupt process is accepted while updating the random number used in the production control (step 1803).

  The interrupt process is periodically performed according to the period set in step 1802. Referring to FIG. 18B, in this interruption process, the effect control unit 300 receives a command from the game control unit 200 and performs a command reception process (step 1811). In this command reception process, an effect pattern is selected. In addition, the effect control unit 300 performs effect button processing for accepting operations such as an effect button by the player (step 1812). Thereafter, the effect control unit 300 performs command transmission processing for transmitting a command including information on the selected effect pattern to the image / sound control unit 310 and the lamp control unit 320 (step 1813). As a result, effects such as image display on the image display unit 114, sound output, operation of the movable accessory 115, light emission of the panel lamp 116 and the frame lamp 157 are performed.

[Normal pattern lottery pre-reading]
Here, the hold prefetch of the normal symbol lottery by this Embodiment is demonstrated.
The pachinko gaming machine 100 according to the present embodiment performs so-called hold prefetching with respect to the reserved portion of the normal symbol lottery based on the winning to the gate 124L.
The hold prefetching is a determination (preliminary determination) similar to the determination of a random number in the normal symbol processing (see step 1305 in FIG. 13) at the time of winning a gate, not at the start of symbol variation. As described with reference to FIG. 7A and FIG. 7B, the pachinko gaming machine 100 according to the present embodiment is pre-determined when a game ball wins as a winning opening that triggers a normal symbol lottery. There is a gate 124L, which is a first prize opening where the game is performed, and a gate 124R, which is a second prize opening where no prior determination is made.

  When the game ball is launched into the game area 111 and passes through the gate 124L or the gate 124R (gate winning), the game control unit 200 acquires a random number used in the normal symbol lottery (step 704 in FIG. 7-1 and FIG. 7). (See step 714 of 7-2). At this time, if the normal symbol change display is performed by the normal symbol processing associated with another gate winning, the normal symbol processing associated with the current gate winning is not performed immediately but is suspended (see FIG. 13). With respect to the held ball, the normal symbol processing is performed in the order in which it is held (winning order) every time the normal symbol variation display ends. Here, in the case where the held gate winning is due to the passage of the gate 124L, separately from this normal symbol processing, the hold for use in the notice notification effect that pre-reads and notifies the result of the reserved normal symbol lottery Prefetching (preliminary determination) is performed immediately without waiting until the time of symbol variation start (see step 715 in FIG. 7-2).

[Configuration of RAM of Game Control Unit and Prediction Control Unit for Preserving Pre-Reading]
In order to execute such hold prefetching, the RAM 203 of the game control unit 200 and the RAM 303 of the effect control unit 300 in the present embodiment have the following configurations.
FIG. 19 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of the RAM 203 (see FIG. 3) of the game control unit 200 according to the present embodiment. (A) of the same figure is a block diagram which shows the structure of the memory | storage area | region 204, (b) is a block diagram which shows each structure of the memory | storage part shown to (a).

  As shown to (a) of the figure, RAM203 is provided with the memory area 204 as a normal symbol holding | maintenance memory area which memorize | stores the hit random number (refer FIGS. 7-1 and 7-2) acquired by the gate switch process. . This storage area 204 has four storage units corresponding to the maximum value of the number of holds of the gate 124 (when the upper limit value of each number of holds is 4). More specifically, the storage area 204 includes a first storage unit 204a, a second storage unit 204b, a third storage unit 204c, and a fourth storage unit 204d.

  Further, as shown in (b) of the figure, each of these storage units 204a to 204d includes an area for storing the number N of changes in the normal symbol when the normal symbol lottery is won, and a winning gate (gate 124L or gate 124R), an area for storing information, an area for storing the acquired hit random number, and an area for storing pre-determination information. The pre-determination information is information obtained by the pre-determination process (see step 715 in FIG. 7-2) based on the winning random number. That is, the content of the prior determination information is the same as the information obtained as a result of the hit random number determination (see step 1305 in FIG. 13) in the normal symbol processing, and specifically, whether or not the normal symbol lottery is won. It is information to show.

  Here, each random number is stored in order from the first storage unit 204a. More specifically, for example, when no random number is stored in any of the first storage unit 204a to the fourth storage unit 204d, the acquired random number is stored in the first storage unit 204a. For example, when random numbers are already stored in the first storage unit 204a and the second storage unit 204b, the acquired random numbers are stored in the third storage unit 204c.

FIG. 20 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of the RAM 303 (see FIG. 3) of the effect control unit 300 according to the present embodiment. (A) of the same figure is a block diagram which shows the structure of the pending | holding storage area 305, (b) is a block diagram which shows each structure of the memory | storage part shown to (a).
As shown to (a) of the figure, RAM303 is equipped with the storage area 305 as a holding | maintenance status storage area which memorize | stores the situation where the holding ball is put on hold. The holding storage area 305 corresponds to holding for winnings in both the gate 124L and the gate 124R, and has four storage units corresponding to the maximum number of holds. Specifically, the reserved storage area 305 includes a first storage unit 305a, a second storage unit 305b, a third storage unit 305c, and a fourth storage unit 305d.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 5B, each of these storage units 305a to 305d includes a hold flag storage area for turning on / off a hold flag and a pre-determination flag storage area for turning on / off a pre-determination flag. And have. The hold flag is a flag for identifying the presence or absence of a hold ball for each of the storage units 305a to 305d. That is, for example, when the number of holds due to a gate winning is 3, the hold flag is turned on in the three hold flag storage areas of the first storage unit 305a, the second storage unit 305b, and the third storage unit 305c. The advance determination flag is a flag for identifying the presence / absence of advance determination information for each reserved ball. That is, for example, when the first and second reserved balls among the three held balls are held by winning the gate 124R and the third is held by winning the gate 124L, the third held ball Since pre-determination processing is performed, there is pre-determination information, so the pre-determination flag is turned ON in the pre-determination flag storage area of the third storage unit 305c.

  As described above, the RAM 203 and the RAM 303 function as a holding ball information storage unit that stores information (holding ball information) including a result of a prior determination regarding the holding ball in the game control unit 200 and the effect control unit 300. In addition, the game control unit 200 is a lottery unit that performs a lottery lottery, and is a preliminary determination unit that performs a preliminary determination process. The effect control unit 300 is effect control means for performing a notice notification effect. Although details will be described later, the effect control unit 300 functions as a notification condition determination unit (see step 2105 in FIG. 21), and the RAM 303 of the effect control unit 300 stores history information used for determination of the notification condition. Function as.

[Preliminary judgment processing]
Here, the prior determination process for holding prefetching will be described in detail.
First, a determination method using random numbers in the prior determination process will be described. The pre-determination process (step 705) performed in the gate switch process of FIG. 7-1 uses a random number (step 704) acquired at the time of winning a gate, and the hit determination in the normal symbol process performed at the start of symbol variation at the time of winning a gate. The same determination as that (see step 1305 in FIG. 13) is performed.

  The contents of this pre-determination are the same determinations as the various determinations in the normal symbol processing, that is, whether or not the winning is in the normal symbol lottery. Therefore, the determination method can be performed by using the table as shown in FIG. 17D and the same method as the determination in the normal symbol processing at the start of symbol variation. In addition, the pre-determination process is performed to notify the result of the hold prefetching separately from the determination in the actual normal symbol process, and therefore, it is not always necessary to use the same table as that used in the normal symbol process. good. For example, in the table used in the prior determination, only a part of the winning values set in the table used in the determination in the normal symbol processing can be set as the winning value. Furthermore, although the reliability of prefetching is lowered, it is also possible to set a winning value that is not set in the table used in the determination in the normal symbol processing in the table used in the prior determination.

[Notification conditions]
In the present embodiment, as described above, the normal symbol lottery prior determination (holding pre-reading) is performed at the time of winning a gate. When the predetermined notification condition is satisfied, the prefetch result is notified by the effect. Various conditions can be set as the notification condition. For example, the player's interest can be enhanced by preventing the notification mode from becoming monotonous or encouraging the player to actively participate in the game. It is desirable that it can be improved.

  In the present embodiment, a condition based on the execution history of the special symbol lottery is set as the notification condition, and the advance notification result is notified or not performed in the production. Normally, in a game using the pachinko gaming machine 100, it is expected that a lottery will be obtained in a jackpot game or a subsequent game state (probability game state or short-time game state) by winning a jackpot in a special symbol lottery. For this reason, if the special symbol lottery does not shift to a gaming state advantageous to the player, such as a big win or a probable gaming state, the player's interest in the game may be impaired. Therefore, in the present invention, by using the notification condition set based on the execution history of the special symbol lottery, when a state that is not advantageous to the player continues, by performing a preliminary announcement of the normal symbol lottery prior determination, Suppresses the decrease in interest in the player's game due to the execution result of the special symbol lottery.

  Specific notification conditions include, for example, whether the number of times that the special symbol lottery has been reached has reached a predetermined condition value (threshold), or whether the number of times that the special symbol lottery has been won has reached a predetermined condition value No, whether or not the number of consecutive big wins in the special symbol lottery has reached a predetermined condition value, and the like. In addition, the number of times of winning in the special symbol lottery can be used. In any case, the notification may be performed when the target value reaches the condition value, or the notification may not be performed when the target value reaches the condition value. The specific setting can be determined for each model of the pachinko gaming machine 100 according to the content of the game.

  For example, when the number of special symbol lotteries is used as a notification condition, as a benefit for playing games for a long time, a notification is set to be notified when the number of lotteries reaches a condition value Can be considered. On the other hand, if notification is given to prevent the player's interest from deteriorating when there are few winnings at the first start port 121 or the second start port 122, the notification will be made after the number of lotteries reaches the condition value. It is also possible to set so as not to perform.

  As shown in FIG. 5 and FIG. 8, information on the lottery result of special symbol lottery (whether or not winning, jackpot type (symbol), etc.) is included in the control command and is sent from the game control unit 200 to the effect control unit. 300. Therefore, the effect control unit 300 can extract information used as a notification condition from the acquired control command, and save it in a storage unit such as the RAM 303 as history information.

  In addition, the value (number of times) of the target that is the notification condition can be a value in a game that is being continuously played, or a cumulative value for one day (after the power is turned on to the pachinko gaming machine 100). It can also be. Furthermore, the notification condition may be, for example, when the pachinko gaming machine 100 is in a customer waiting state regardless of the special symbol lottery, when the first start port 121 and the second start port 122 do not win for a certain period of time, or the like. it can.

[Reception processing of pending number G increase command]
Next, the reception process when the command received from the effect control unit 300 from the game control unit 200 is a pending number G increase command will be described.
FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing the content of the reception process of the hold number G increase command by the effect control unit 300.
In the effect control unit 300, the command received in the command reception process (see step 1811 in FIG. 18B) is a pending number G increase command (see step 706 in FIG. 7-1 and step 715 in FIG. 7-2). First, it is determined whether or not the advance determination information is included in the received pending number G increase command (step 2101). As described with reference to FIGS. 7A and 7B, in the present embodiment, when the gate 124L is won, the advance determination information is included in the pending number G increase command, and the gate 124R is won. In this case, the advance determination information is not included in the pending number G increase command.

  When the advance determination information is included in the hold number G increase command (Yes in step 2101), the effect control unit 300 stores the hold storage area corresponding to the current hold ball in the RAM 303 (any one of the storage units 305a to 305d). ), The hold flag and the advance determination flag are turned ON (step 2102). On the other hand, if the advance determination information is not included in the hold number G increase command (No in Step 2101), only the hold flag is turned ON in the storage area corresponding to the current hold ball in the RAM 303 (Step 2103).

  Next, the effect control unit 300 determines whether or not the advance determination flag is ON in any of the storage units 305a to 305d of the RAM 303 (step 2104). If it is determined that the pre-determination flag is ON in any of the storage units 305a to 305d (Yes in Step 2104), the effect control unit 300 then stores the history information stored in the storage unit such as the RAM 303. Based on this, it is determined whether or not the notification condition is satisfied (step 2105). When the notification condition is satisfied (Yes in Step 2105), the effect control unit 300 sets a notification effect command for performing the notification effect of the determination result of the prior determination (Step 2106), and ends the notification command reception process. To do.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the prior determination flag is not ON in any of the storage units 305a to 305d (No in Step 2104), and when the referred history information does not satisfy the notification condition (No in Step 2105). ), The effect control unit 300 sets a normal effect command for performing a normal effect without notifying the determination result of the prior determination (step 2107), and ends the notification command receiving process.

  Thereafter, the effect control unit 300 transmits the command set in steps 2106 and 2107 to the image / sound control unit 310 and the lamp control unit 320 (see step 1813 in FIG. 18B). Thereby, the effect which alert | reports the information regarding the holding | maintenance of a normal symbol lottery is performed by means, such as displaying an object on the image display part 114. FIG.

In the above example, the notification effect is performed when the history information regarding the special symbol lottery satisfies the notification condition. However, the notification effect is performed when the first start port 121 or the second start port 122 has few winnings. As in the example of performing the notification (notifying effect is not performed when a special symbol lottery is performed for a certain amount or more), it is possible to perform control such that the notification effect is not performed when the history information satisfies the notification condition.
In the present embodiment, it is determined whether or not to perform the notification effect depending on whether or not the notification condition is satisfied. However, when the notification condition is satisfied (or not satisfied), a lottery is performed. It is also possible to control so that the notification effect is performed with a predetermined probability. As a lottery method, for example, a table as described with reference to FIG. 17 is prepared, and a lottery using random numbers similar to the normal symbol lottery can be performed.

[Specific example of notification production]
FIG. 22 is a diagram illustrating an example of the effect image displayed on the image display unit 114 in the effect of notifying information related to the hold of the normal symbol lottery.
In this effect image, the reserved ball objects 311a to 311d are displayed on the upper part of the screen of the image display unit 114 in accordance with the number of reserved balls generated by winning a gate (held ball display). The effect image can display four reserved balls, which is the maximum value of the number of holds, but in the example shown in FIG. 22A, two reserved balls are displayed (holding ball objects 311a and 311b). An example is shown. The reserved ball objects 311c and 311d indicate the displayed locations with broken lines. In an actual game, the number of the holding ball objects 311a to 311d in the holding ball display changes according to the increase / decrease of the holding number accompanying the reception of the holding number G increase command or the execution of the effect. That is, the information on the presence / absence of the holding ball and the number of holdings is notified to the player by the holding ball display.

  Specifically, for example, when the number of holds is generated or increased according to the gate winning, the hold ball object 311a is displayed first, and the hold ball object 311b, the hold ball object 311c, and the hold ball object 311d are displayed in this order. . When the number of holdings decreases due to the execution of the effect according to the variation of the normal symbol, the holding ball object 311d, the holding ball object 311c, the holding ball object 311b, and the holding ball object 311a are erased in this order. Here, the digestion of the reserved ball is performed in the order in which the processing is held (winning order), but the reserved ball objects 311a to 311d are deleted in order from the last displayed. This is because the holding ball objects 311a to 311d correspond to the holding order of the holding balls. In other words, each time the leading reserved ball is digested, the order of the reserved balls is advanced, so that the reserved ball objects corresponding to the backward reserved balls are sequentially deleted.

  Further, in the present embodiment, when there is pre-determination information regarding the holding ball and the determination result indicates winning in the normal symbol lottery, a display for notifying the determination result is performed. In the example shown in FIG. 22B, four hold displays are performed, and the third hold ball object 311c among them is displayed in different colors, so that the hold ball corresponding to the hold ball object 311c is previously displayed. It shows that it was determined to be winning in the determination.

  Here, in the present embodiment, only when the determination result of the prior determination indicates winning in the normal symbol lottery, the display for notifying the determination result is performed. That is, even if there is pre-determined information regarding the holding ball, if it is not won in the determination result, it is displayed in the same manner as when there is no pre-determined information (due to winning the gate 124R). Thereby, the pre-reading determination result that the normal symbol lottery is not won is not notified, and it is possible to avoid a decrease in the player's expectation. Note that this is only an example of an effect, and it is also possible to perform an effect informing the determination result that the normal symbol lottery is not won.

  In this embodiment, circular “o” objects are described as the holding ball objects 311a to 311d. However, other various shapes, designs, character images, and the like may be used. Also when displaying the pre-reading determination result that the normal symbol lottery is won, in addition to displaying with different colors as shown in FIG. 22B, objects of different shapes and symbols may be displayed. Furthermore, you may display the message which alert | reports winning a normal symbol lottery. Here, the description has been given of the effect of notifying information about the reserved ball by displaying on the image display unit 114, but instead of or in addition to these, the normal symbol lottery is performed by sound output, lamp flashing, gimmick operation, etc. You may alert | report the determination result of prefetch with respect to.

[Relationship between winning gates and gate arrangements and notices]
As described with reference to FIG. 1, the pachinko gaming machine 100 according to the present embodiment is in a gaming state advantageous to a player having the electric tulip 123 or the big prize opening 125 of the second start opening 122 open. The board has been designed to make it easier to win by making a right strike. On the other hand, in the normal gaming state in which the electric tulip 123 and the big prize opening 125 of the second starting opening 122 are closed, the big winning opening 125 is not won, and it is difficult to win the second starting opening 122 as well. The player will aim to win the first start port 121 by left-handed. Since one gate 124 is provided on each of the left and right sides of the game area 111, when a left-handed game ball passes through the gate 124 (gate winning), it mainly passes through the gate 124L and is right-handed. When the game ball passes through the gate 124 (gate winning), it mainly passes through the gate 124R. Therefore, in this embodiment, when winning a gate while making a left turn in the normal gaming state, there is a high possibility that a notice notification of the determination result of the normal symbol lottery is performed. On the other hand, if a gate is won while the player is making a right turn in a gaming state advantageous to the player, the possibility of notifying the normal symbol lottery determination result is low.

  In the pachinko gaming machine 100 designed to make a right strike in a gaming state advantageous to the player, the lever 151 of the handle 151 is operated when the normal gaming state makes a transition to a gaming state advantageous to the player. It is necessary to shift from left-handed to right-handed. Therefore, it is desirable that the player knows in advance that the normal symbol lottery will be won in order to shift from left-handed to right-handed in a timely manner when the electric tulip 123 of the second start port 122 is actually opened. . Therefore, in the present embodiment, a notice notification of the determination result of the normal symbol lottery is performed for the holding ball generated by winning the left gate 124L which is likely to win when left-handed in a normal gaming state. It was decided.

  On the other hand, when this type of pachinko gaming machine 100 is in a gaming state advantageous to the player, it is necessary to operate the lever 152 in order to aim at the second start port 122 because the player has already made a right turn. Absent. Further, in general, in the pachinko gaming machine 100, when the gaming state is advantageous to the player, there are many cases where a flashy effect is given to despise the player's expectation. While such an effect is being performed, performing the notification effect of notifying the determination result of the normal symbol lottery may be an obstacle depending on the content of the effect. Therefore, in the present embodiment, with respect to the holding ball generated by winning the right gate 124R having a high possibility of winning in the right-handed game state advantageous to the player, the determination result of the normal symbol lottery is obtained. No notice was given.

  In the present embodiment described above, when a part of the gates 124 is won, a prior determination is made, and when a part of the other gates 124 is won, a prior determination is made. I decided not to do it. On the other hand, it is also possible to set a different probability for each gate 124 to make a pre-determination when winning a gate, or set a different probability for notifying the result of the pre-determination for each gate 124.

  In the embodiment described above, the structure for determining whether or not to give a notice according to the type of the gate 124 through which the game ball has passed is as described above in the right-handed state in a gaming state advantageous to the player. It is suitable for the pachinko gaming machine 100 in which the board surface is designed so that it is easy to win a prize. However, even such a pachinko gaming machine 100 does not necessarily have the above-described configuration. In other words, regardless of whether the gate 124R or the gate 124L has been passed, the notification may be performed when the notification condition is satisfied.

  In the pachinko gaming machine 100 in which all of the first start port 121, the second start port 122, and the big prize opening 125 are arranged in the lower part near the center of the game area 111, the gate 124 is usually in the game area 111. It is provided only on the left side (position of the gate 124L in FIG. 1). Therefore, it is not determined whether or not to give a notice according to the type of the gate 124 through which the game ball has passed.

  In the case where control according to the type of the gate 124 through which the game ball has passed is not performed as described above, in addition to the notification condition described above, whether or not to perform the notification according to the game state controlled by the game control unit 200 is determined. You may judge. For example, it is possible to perform control such that the notice is not given when the game state is advantageous to the player, such as a short-time game state. When performing such control, for example, the effect control unit 300 determines a game state based on a control command sent from the game control unit 200 to the effect control unit 300, and determines whether or not to give a notice of notice. .

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 ... Pachinko machine, 111 ... Game area, 114 ... Image display part, 121 ... 1st start opening, 122 ... 2nd start opening, 123 ... Electric tulip, 124 ... Gate, 125 ... Grand prize opening, 130 ... Display 200 ... Game control unit, 203 ... RAM, 300 ... Production control unit, 303 ... RAM, 304 ... Real time clock (RTC)

Claims (4)

A gaming machine in which a game ball launched into a game area is played,
A switch provided in the gaming area for detecting that a gaming ball has passed;
Lottery means for performing a lottery on the operation of the ordinary electric accessory triggered by the switch detecting a game ball;
When the switch detects a game ball, prior determination means for determining the result of the lottery before the lottery is performed by the lottery means;
With respect to the holding balls for which the lottery by the lottery means has been put on hold, the holding ball information storage means for storing information including the determination result of the prior determination means;
History information storage means for storing history information relating to the execution of a lottery performed in response to a winning game ball;
Notification condition determination means for determining whether the history information stored by the history information storage means satisfies a preset notification condition;
Production control means for performing a notice effect for notifying information on the reserved ball stored in the reserved ball information storage means according to a determination result by the notification condition determining means;
A gaming machine comprising: The history information storage means stores, as the history information, the number of times that a lottery regarding the operation of the special electric accessory has been performed,
The notification condition determination means determines whether the notification condition is satisfied based on whether or not the number of lotteries stored in the history information storage means has reached a predetermined condition value. The gaming machine according to claim 1. The history information storage means stores the lottery result of the lottery regarding the operation of the special electric accessory as the history information,
The notification condition determination means determines whether the notification condition is satisfied based on whether or not the number of consecutive winnings in the lottery regarding the operation of the special electric accessory has reached a predetermined condition value. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein: The history information storage means stores the lottery result of the lottery regarding the operation of the special electric accessory as the history information,
The notification condition determination means determines whether or not the notification condition is satisfied based on whether or not the number of wins for a specific win in the lottery regarding the operation of the special electric accessory has reached a predetermined condition value. The game machine according to claim 1, wherein the game machine is determined.

Images