JP5620711B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine in which the number of consecutive wins for a jackpot with a probability variation in the jackpot lottery is limited.

  In gaming machines such as pachinko gaming machines, by satisfying various preset conditions, the gaming machine is shifted to various gaming states to improve gaming properties. For example, when a game ball wins a start opening, a lottery (a jackpot lottery, a special symbol lottery) is performed with this as a trigger. Then, according to the result of the lottery, the winning probability when the lottery is performed next varies (probability variation). The lottery result is notified to the player by a special symbol. The special symbol changes for a predetermined time when the lottery is performed, and stops at the symbol representing the lottery result. And according to the result of the lottery, the variation time of the special symbol when the lottery is performed next is changed.

  In addition, an opening / closing member (electric tulip), which is an ordinary electric accessory, is provided at the start opening. When the opening / closing member is in an open state (open state), it becomes easy for a game ball to win a prize at the start opening and is closed. When in the state (closed state), it is difficult for the game ball to win a prize 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. Here, the game machine is provided with a start gate, and when the game ball passes through the start gate, a lottery (open / close lottery, normal symbol lottery for operating the open / close member provided at the start port is triggered by this. ) Is performed. The result of the lottery is notified to the player with a normal symbol. The normal symbol changes for a predetermined time when the lottery is performed, and stops at the symbol representing the lottery result.

  By setting the winning probability in these lotteries (in the case of jackpot lottery, the winning probability during normal times and the probability of winning when the probability changes) and the number of winning balls when winning a prize, Realize gaming machines with various game characteristics, such as those that can be expected to pay out balls, and those that can increase the total number of payouts by frequent hits, although the number of payouts of game balls in one big hit game is not so many can do.

  Some gaming machines are equipped with a limiting means (probability change limiter) for limiting the number of consecutive wins to a big hit with a probability variation (see, for example, Patent Document 1). In this type of gaming machine, if the jackpot with probability variation continues for a preset number of times, the gaming state is changed from the gaming state in which the probability variation is forced (probability variation gaming state) to the normal gaming state in which the probability variation does not occur ( Normal gaming state). By combining the setting of the probability variation limiter with the setting of the winning probability and the number of winning balls, a gaming machine having a variety of gaming properties can be realized.

JP 2007-252483 A

  Here, depending on the winning probability in various lotteries, the probability variation limiter setting, etc., the probability variation limiter is activated to shift from the probability variation gaming state to the normal gaming state, so that the subsequent game is advantageous to the player. It is also possible to design a machine. In such a case, based on a predetermined condition, the player determines the remaining number of jackpots until the probability variation limiter is activated (that is, information indicating how many times the winning combination with probability variation is activated when the probability variation limiter is activated). By informing the player, the player's expectation can be increased.

  The conditions and notification methods for notifying the remaining number of jackpots until the probability variation limiter is activated (hereinafter referred to as the limiter remaining number) are from the viewpoint of increasing the player's willingness to participate in the game. Those that require dynamic manipulation or require the player to observe with reasonable care are preferred.

  The present invention has been made to solve such a problem, and it is an object of the present invention to further enhance the interest of a game when notification of the remaining number of limiters is made.

The present invention that achieves the above object is realized as the following gaming machine. This gaming machine
A gaming machine in which production control is performed in accordance with the progress control of a game by a game ball,
A first winning port 121 provided so that when a game ball is driven into the left half area of the game area 111, it is easier to win than when it is driven into the right half area of the game area 111;
When a game ball is shot into the right half area of the game area 111, it is provided so that it is easier to win than driving into the left half area of the game area 111. A second winning opening 122 that changes to a difficult closed state;
It is a lottery regarding the operation of a special electric accessory that is triggered by the winning of a game ball to the first winning port 121 or the second winning port 122. As a lottery result of the lottery, at least the special electric accessory After the operation ends, the gaming state of the gaming machine after the operation of the special electric accessory is likely to be normal and the probability variation jackpot where the probability that the gaming state of the gaming machine wins the lottery is higher than the normal gaming state becomes a high probability gaming state. Including a jackpot including a normal jackpot that becomes a gaming state, including a long hit for which the operation time of the special electric accessory is long and a short hit which is shorter than a case where the operation time of the special electric accessory is a long hit In addition, as a jackpot, a winning support is provided in which the opening time when the second winning opening 122 is opened after the operation of the special electric accessory is ended is extended. Including assistance with jackpot lottery means 231 for performing the drawing,
A limiter 243 that counts the number of consecutive winnings in the lottery by the lottery means 231 and determines whether or not a predetermined set value has been reached;
In the case of winning a jackpot in the lottery that is performed when the first winning port 121 is won, the short win is achieved, and a jackpot is achieved in the lottery that is performed when the second winning port 122 is won In the case where the winner is won, the winner will be a winner in the lottery when the limiter 243 reaches the set value out of the lottery performed when the first prize opening 121 is won. Will be a jackpot with winning support with a higher probability than when the limiter 243 wins the jackpot in the lottery before reaching the set value, and the lottery performed when the second winning slot 122 is won Of the limiter 243, when the big winner is won in the lottery when the limiter 243 reaches the set value, before the limiter 243 reaches the set value. It controls the game so that the pay-assisted jackpot at a lower probability than to win the jackpot in the lottery, the game control unit 200 counts the number of gaming balls used in the game, and outputs a count value ,
In the gaming state where the winning support is not performed, the winning value counted by the limiter 243 is obtained when the count value output from the game control unit 200 is acquired and the notification condition based on the count value is satisfied. An effect control unit 300 that performs a notification effect that notifies information related to the limiter count value that is the value of the number of times,
It is characterized by providing.

More specifically, the game control unit 200 includes:
Connected to a launch ball detection switch that detects a game ball that has been launched and sent to the game area,
The number of game balls detected by the shot ball detection switch is counted.
Alternatively, the game control unit 200
Connected to a discharge ball detection switch that detects a game ball discharged from the discharge port of the game board,
The number of game balls detected by the discharge ball detection switch is counted.

More preferably,
The game control unit 200 outputs the count value every time the count value of the game balls reaches a certain number,
The effect control unit 300 accumulates the count value acquired from the game control unit 200, and performs the notification effect when the accumulated value reaches a predetermined value.
More preferably,
When the said effect control part 300 performs the notification lottery for determining whether the said notification effect is performed when the said count value of a game ball reaches the preset condition value, and wins the said notification lottery The notification effect is performed.
When a plurality of the condition values are set, the winning probability in the notification effect may be individually set for each condition value.

  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.

  ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, when notification of the limiter remaining frequency is performed with the game machine provided with the limiter, the interest property of a game can be improved further.

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 the firing ball detection switch process. 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. 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 control of the probability variation limiter in jackpot determination processing. 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 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 which shows the function structure of the production | presentation control part for alerting | reporting the information regarding the counter value of a probability variation limiter. It is a flowchart which shows the operation example of the notification determination part in the case of performing a notification lottery when the number of shot balls reaches a fixed number. It is a figure which shows the structural example of the random number table used for alerting | reporting lottery. It is a block diagram which shows the internal structure of the control unit in embodiment which detects the number of discharge balls. It is a block diagram which shows the function structure of the game control part in embodiment which detects the number of discharge balls. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the discharge ball | bowl detection switch process.

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 FIG. 1 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 surrounding 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 a special prize winning hole 125 that opens according to the result of the special symbol lottery, and the lottery starts even if a 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 122 or the big winning prize is to the right 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 the pattern and 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.

  Further, in the present embodiment, a shot ball detection switch (SW) 161 for detecting a game ball at a position of an outlet where the game ball launched by the launching device is guided to the rail member 112 and sent to the game area 111. Is provided. The exit portion is usually provided with a backstop 162 for preventing the game ball from returning from the rail member 112 to the launching device. Therefore, by providing the shot ball detection switch 161 at this position, it is possible to reliably detect the game ball sent out to the game area 111 without going back.

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 in a probable gaming state by lighting, and the other one is made by hitting the right (game ball). Whether or not the game state is advantageous to the player who is likely to win the big winning opening 125 or the second starting opening 122 is changed 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 this embodiment, as an example of an input device, an effect button 171 and an effect key 172 including a plurality of keys adjacent to the effect button 171 and arranged in a substantially cross shape are provided. Are disposed on the frame member 150. The production key 172 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 instruct one of a plurality of images displayed on the image display unit 114 by operating the four peripheral keys, and also instructed by operating the center key. It is possible to select an image. In addition to the effect buttons 171 and the effect keys 172 shown in the drawing, various input forms such as levers and dials can be adopted depending on the contents of the effects.

[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.
Furthermore, the game control unit 200 counts the number of game balls (number of shot balls) fired by the launching device. When a certain transmission condition is satisfied, the count value of the number of shot balls is sent to the effect control unit 300.

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.

  In addition, the game control unit 200 is connected to a shot ball detection switch 161. Then, the number of game balls (fire balls) detected by the fire ball detection switch 161 is counted. That is, the game control unit 200 and the shot ball detection switch 161 function as a counting unit that counts the number of shot balls that have been launched and sent to the game area 111 (number of shot 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 the effect button 171 or the effect key 172, the effect content 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, the effect control unit 300 instructs the setting of the screen display for waiting for a customer 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 the present embodiment, the effect control unit 300 further receives the count value of the number of shot balls sent from the game control unit 200 and determines whether or not to notify the gaming state of the pachinko gaming machine 100. The lottery is performed. Then, the production contents are set according to the lottery result.
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 includes a shot ball counting unit 230 as a function unit that counts the number of shot balls.
Moreover, the game control part 200 is a special symbol lottery part 231, a normal symbol lottery part 232, a special symbol fluctuation | variation control part 233, a special symbol lottery result determination part 234, and a normal part as a function part which performs various lottery processes. And a 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.
Furthermore, the game control unit 200 of the present embodiment includes a probability variation limiter 243 as a part of the function unit that controls the gaming state.

The shot ball counting unit 230 counts the number of shot balls.
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 uses a random number table as shown in FIGS. 17-1 and 17-2 when the special symbol lottery is performed. It is determined whether the type of jackpot when winning a jackpot or not, or if the jackpot is not won or won? Details of the random number table will be described later.

  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. In the present embodiment, when winning a big win in the special symbol lottery performed by winning the first starting port 121, it is always a short win, and in the special symbol lottery performed by winning the second starting port 122 If you win, you will always be set to 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 probable gaming state occurs after the jackpot game ends, and a short-time gaming state does not occur (with certain change + no short-time) jackpots are "latent probability change jackpot", "sudden probability change jackpot" 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 management of 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.

  The probability variation limiter 243 limits the number of consecutive wins with a jackpot with certain probability variation in the lottery performed by the special symbol lottery unit 231. In other words, the probability variation limiter 243 counts the number of consecutive wins with jackpot with certain probability variation (counter function). Then, when the count value (counter value) reaches a preset value, the random symbol table (see FIG. 17-1) used by the special symbol lottery result determination unit 234 to determine the lottery result is displayed as a jackpot with certainty. Change to a random number table that does not contain (limiter function). As a result, since the lottery result of the special symbol lottery when the counter value reaches the set value is always a big win without any probability change, the gaming state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 after the big hit game is changed from the probability variation gaming state to the normal gaming state Is forcibly migrated to. The set value can be set arbitrarily, but can be set to 10 times, for example. In this case, the probability variation limiter 243 is activated at the time of winning the jackpot immediately after winning the winning jackpot with the probability variation for nine consecutive times, and the jackpot without the certainty of change is always obtained. In addition, when the winning combination with no probability variation is won before the counter value of the probability variation limiter 243 reaches the set value, the counter value is reset.

[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. 5A is a flowchart illustrating the main operation of the game control unit 200.
The game control unit 200 repeatedly executes each process shown in FIG. 5A every predetermined time (for example, 4 milliseconds) in a normal operation except for a special case 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 switch processing (step 502), detection switch processing, start port switch processing, and gate switch processing are performed.
In the shot ball detection switch process, the shot ball counting unit 230 of the game control unit 200 monitors the state of the shot ball detection switch 161 in FIG. 3 under a certain condition, and counts the number of times the switch is turned on.
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.

[Launching ball detection switch processing in game control unit]
FIG. 5-2 is a flowchart showing the content of the shot ball detection switch process.
In this shot ball detection switch process, the shot ball counting unit 230 of the game control unit 200 counts the number of shot balls after the pachinko gaming machine 100 is in the probable gaming state. That is, as shown in FIG. 5B, the shot ball counting unit 230 first determines whether or not the shot ball detection switch 161 is turned on (step 511). If the shot ball detection switch 161 is turned on, Next, the shot ball counting unit 230 determines whether or not the pachinko gaming machine 100 is in the probability variation gaming state (step 512). If the game state is the probability variation gaming state, the shot ball counting unit 230 adds 1 to the count value of the number D of shot balls (step 513). Next, the firing ball counting unit 230 determines whether or not the number D of firing balls has reached a preset condition value (step 514). In the example illustrated in FIG. 5B, the condition value is 1000. Normally, in the pachinko gaming machine 100, 100 gaming balls are fired per minute, so if the player continues playing after the pachinko gaming machine 100 transitions to the probable gaming state, the number of balls fired in about 10 minutes. D reaches the condition value.
If the number of shot balls D reaches the condition value, the shot ball counting unit 230 stores the count value of the number of shot balls D in the RAM 203 (step 515). The stored count value of the number of shot balls D is transmitted to the effect control unit 300 as a notification command in the output process shown in step 506 of FIG.

[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. As the random number value here, a jackpot random value that determines jackpot, jackpot or out of game, a jackpot random value that determines the type of jackpot (presence / absence of short-time gaming state after jackpot game, presence / absence of probabilistic gaming state) ( 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.

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 a lottery result notice effect.
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 starting 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]
FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the contents of the gate switch process when a game ball passes through the gate 124.
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. 7, 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 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 705). Then, the process for winning in the gate 124 is finished.

[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 variation 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. 9A is a flowchart illustrating 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 in Step 604 or Step 610 of FIG. 6 matches the value set as the winning value of the jackpot or the value set as the winning value of the jackpot whether the jackpot or 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. 17-1). (See (b)).
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).

[Control by probability variation limiter]
FIG. 9-2 is a flowchart showing the control contents of the probability variation limiter 243 for the jackpot symbol random number determination (step 903) performed by the special symbol lottery result determination unit 234 in the jackpot determination process (FIG. 9-1).
If the special symbol lottery result determination unit 234 determines that the jackpot is won in Step 902 of FIG. 9A, the probability variation limiter 243 first adds 1 to the counter value CN (Step 911), and the added counter value CN is set. It is determined whether or not the value n has been reached (step 912).

  When the counter value CN does not reach the set value n (No in Step 912), the probability variation limiter 243 controls the special symbol lottery result determination unit 234 and is used in normal time (when the probability variation limiter 243 does not operate). The jackpot symbol random number is determined using the random number table (see table (b-1) in FIG. 17-1 (b)) (step 913).

  On the other hand, when the counter value CN reaches the set value n (Yes in Step 912), the probability variation limiter 243 controls the special symbol lottery result determination unit 234 and is a random number prepared for use when the probability variation limiter 243 is activated. A jackpot symbol random number is determined using a table (see table (b-2) in FIG. 17-1 (b)) (step 914). Then, the probability variation limiter 243 resets the counter value CN (step 915).

[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. 9-1) (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 steps 604 and 610 in FIG. 6 matches a preset value (FIG. 17-2 (c). )reference).
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. If both the probability change flag and the previous time reduction flag are ON, the game state has a probability change and a time reduction. If the probability change flag is ON and the time reduction flag is OFF, the probability change has occurred. It is a gaming state with no time savings.

  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).

  Here, the determination of whether or not it is a big hit can be made based on the determination result of the big hit determination process (FIG. 9-1). Further, whether or not the type of jackpot is long hit can be determined based on the type of the start ports 121 and 122 that have won the prize. That is, when winning at the first start port 121, it is a short win, and Yes in both steps 1109 and 1110. On the other hand, when winning at the second start port 122, it is a long win, Yes in step 1109, No in step 1110. If a lost symbol or a small bonus symbol is set in the RAM 203 by the big hit determination process, No in step 1109.

  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. Similar to the case of long hit, the case of short hit does not distinguish the presence or absence of probability fluctuation.

  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). When the normal symbol is not changing (No in step 1302), the normal symbol control unit 237 next determines whether or not the holding number G (see FIG. 7) for the undrawn of the normal symbol is 1 or more (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 or not the winning is determined is determined whether or not the value of the winning random number acquired in step 704 in FIG. 7 matches the value set as the winning value in the table shown in FIG. To be determined.

  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.

[Large winning mouth processing by game control unit]
FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the contents of the special prize opening process in the electric accessory process shown in Step 504 of FIG. 5-1.
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 ending 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. 9-1). Since these determinations are substantially the same as the steps 902, 903, and 905 of the jackpot determination process (FIG. 9-1), 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. 5-1.
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. 9-1), the variation pattern selection process (FIG. 10), the normal symbol process (FIG. 13), and the like will be described in detail.
FIGS. 17A and 17B are diagrams illustrating a configuration example of a random number (random number table) 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. 17B shows a configuration example of a reach random number, FIG. In (d), a configuration example of the hit random numbers is shown.

  Referring to FIG. 17A, the jackpot random number is set for the jackpot at the normal time when the gaming state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 has no probability change and the jackpot at the probability change. The range of values of random numbers (big hit random numbers) is 1010 from 0 to 1009. In the case of a special symbol lottery (a jackpot lottery) during normal times, 100 winning values are set, and the winning probability is 100/1010 (= 1 / 10.1). In the case of special symbol lottery at the time of probability change, 101 winning values are set, and the winning probability is 101/1010 (= 1/10). Thus, in the pachinko gaming machine 100 of the present embodiment, the winning probability in the special symbol lottery is set to be high (about 1/10). In addition, the winning probability at the normal time and the winning probability at the time of probability change are set to values that hardly change.

  In the example shown in FIG. 17A, only the range of random values and the ratio of winning values are shown, and specific winning values are not illustrated, but the special symbol variation control unit 233 actually draws lots. A specific winning value is set in the random number table used in the event. In addition, in the example shown in the figure, the setting for the small hit is not described, but actually, the winning value for the small hit is appropriately set in the range of the random value shown in the figure. Note that the pachinko gaming machine 100 according to the present embodiment may have a specification that does not provide a small hit.

  Next, the jackpot symbol random number will be described. The pachinko gaming machine 100 according to the present embodiment includes a probability variation limiter 243 (see FIG. 4), and restricts the number of consecutive wins for a jackpot with certain variation in a special symbol lottery. For this reason, in this embodiment, two types of jackpot symbol random number tables are prepared, one used when the limiter is not activated (b-1) and the other used when the limiter is activated (b-2). ing. Further, in the present embodiment, when winning a big win in the special symbol lottery performed by winning the first starting port 121 and winning in the special symbol lottery performed by winning the second starting port 122 In this case, the jackpot symbol random number is set individually.

First, the random number table used when the limiter is not operated will be described.
Referring to the table (b-1) of FIG. 17-1 (b), as jackpot symbols when winning the first starting port 121, “with certain change + no short time”, “without certain change + no short time”, “probable variation”. There are three types, “None + Short time”. Here, since the jackpot game when winning the jackpot in the special symbol lottery performed by winning the first starting port 121 is only a short win, the types of these jackpot symbols are after the jackpot game of short hit The gaming state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 is shown. Therefore, the jackpot of “with probability change + no short time” suddenly changes suddenly (surprise) jackpot or latent probability change (latency) jackpot, the jackpot of “without probability + short time” suddenly (normally through) jackpot, “no change + short time “Yes” is also referred to as sudden short-term (collision) jackpot.

  In the example shown in the table (b-1), the range of random number values is 400 from 0 to 399. In the jackpot symbol of “with certainty change + no short time”, 388 winning values are set, and the winning probability is 388/400 (= 97/100). For the jackpot symbol of “no probability change + no short time”, four winning values are set, and the winning probability is 4/400 (= 1/100). In the jackpot symbol of “no change in probability + short time”, eight winning values are set, and the winning probability is 8/400 (= 2/100). Therefore, when a special symbol lottery performed by winning the first starting port 121 is won, a big win of “with certainty + no shortage” is obtained with a very high probability (97%).

  Further, referring to the table (b-1), two types of “big change + short time” and “high probability + short time” are prepared as the jackpot symbols when winning at the second start port 122. That is, when a big win is won in the special symbol lottery performed by winning the second starting port 122, the gaming state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 after the big winning game is always a short-time gaming state.

  In the example shown in the table (b-1), the range of random number values is 400 from 0 to 399. In the jackpot symbol of “with certainty + short time”, 388 winning values are set, and the winning probability is 388/400 (= 97/100). In the jackpot symbol of “no change in probability + short time”, 12 winning values are set, and the winning probability is 12/400 (= 3/100). Therefore, when a special symbol lottery performed after winning the second starting port 122 is won, a big hit of “with certainty + short time” will occur with a very high probability (97%). When combined with the case where the first winning opening 121 is won and the jackpot is won, the pachinko gaming machine 100 according to the present embodiment is almost (with a probability of 97%) when the jackpot is won in the special symbol lottery. It ’s a big hit.

Next, a random number table used when the limiter is not operated will be described.
Next, referring to the table (b-2) of FIG. 17-1 (b), as the jackpot symbol when winning the first starting port 121, “no change in accuracy + no time reduction”, “no change in accuracy + time reduction” There are two types. In other words, the jackpot that is won in the special symbol lottery performed by winning the first starting port 121 is suddenly a normal (rush) jackpot or suddenly short (rush) jackpot. Similarly, there are two types of jackpot symbols for winning at the second start port 122: “no probability change + no time reduction” and “no probability change + time reduction”. Therefore, if a big win is won in the special symbol lottery when the limiter is activated, it will be a big win without any probable change.

  In the example shown in the table (b-2), the range of random number values is 400 from 0 to 399. In the case of winning the first starting port 121, 360 winning values are set for the jackpot symbol “no change in accuracy + no time reduction”, and the winning probability is 360/400 (= 9/10). For the jackpot symbol of “no change in probability + short time”, 40 winning values are set, and the winning probability is 40/400 (= 1/10). Therefore, the gaming state after the jackpot game ends becomes a short-time gaming state with a probability of 10%.

  Further, when winning at the second starting port 122, 120 winning values are set for the jackpot symbol “no change in accuracy + no time reduction”, and the winning probability is 120/400 (= 3/10). In the jackpot symbol of “no change in probability + short time”, 280 winning values are set, and the winning probability is 280/400 (= 7/10). Therefore, the gaming state after the jackpot game ends becomes a short-time gaming state with a probability of 70%.

Next, the reach random number will be described.
Referring to FIG. 17-2 (c), the range of random number values is 250 from 0 to 249, and 22 random numbers are assigned to the lottery results (with reach) for performing the reach effect, and the reach effect is performed. There are 228 random numbers assigned to no lottery 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).

Next, the winning random numbers used for the normal symbol lottery will be described.
Referring to FIG. 17-2 (d), 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 the winning when the time-short flag is ON. Nine values are assigned as values. 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.

The random number values used for various types of lottery start from a predetermined initial value and are incremented by one each time the random number update process (step 501) shown in FIG. 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 (FIG. 7), and used in the special symbol process (FIG. 8) and the normal symbol process (FIG. 13). The 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, 1009 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 ranges, winning value ratios, and winning value values shown in the configuration examples of the random numbers in FIGS. 17A and 17B 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.

[Example of game configuration using probability variation limiter]
Here, a configuration example of the game according to the present embodiment will be described.
As described with reference to FIG. 1, the pachinko gaming machine 100 according to the present embodiment is left-handed in a normal gaming state in which the electric tulip 123 and the big prize opening 125 of the second starting port 122 are closed. The board surface is designed so that the player can make a right turn in a gaming state that is advantageous to the player who has the electric tulip 123 or the grand prize winning opening 125 of the second start opening 122 open. Further, as described with reference to FIG. 4, a probability variation limiter 243 is provided as a function of the game control unit 200. Furthermore, as described with reference to FIG. 17A, the probability of winning a jackpot and the type of jackpot in the special symbol lottery are set. Further, in the present embodiment, when the pachinko gaming machine 100 is in the short-time gaming state, the winning support (electric chew support) to the second starting port 122 by opening the electric tulip 123 is performed. Thereby, for example, a game as described below is realized.

  In the pachinko gaming machine 100 according to the present embodiment, the game is a first phase in which the player aims to win the first start port 121 by left-handed, and the second start port 122 and the big winning port 125 are won by right-handed. This is largely divided into the second phase aimed at. As will be described in detail later, the first phase is a phase in which payout of game balls due to winning is small, and the second phase is a phase advantageous to a player who frequently pays out game balls due to winning. In addition, as described with reference to FIG. 17A, in the pachinko gaming machine 100 according to the present embodiment, the winning probability of the special symbol lottery is substantially the same in the normal gaming state and the probability variation gaming state. . Therefore, even if the special symbol lottery wins a jackpot with certainty, it will not be particularly advantageous to the player. That is, the main gaming method in the pachinko gaming machine 100 according to the present embodiment is to first make a left-hand turn in the first phase, and then to make a right-handed game ball by moving to the second phase through a predetermined opportunity. You will get a payout. Hereinafter, the game of each situation will be described.

[Games in the first aspect]
In the first aspect, since the electric tulip 123 and the big prize opening 125 of the second start opening 122 are closed, the game is aimed at winning the first start opening 121 by left-handed. When winning at the first start port 121, a special symbol lottery is won with a probability of about 10% (1/10 or 1 / 10.1). And when the probability variation limiter 243 does not operate, the table (b-1) shown in FIG. The counter value in the probability variation limiter 243 is added. On the other hand, when the counter value reaches the set value and the probability variation limiter 243 is activated, the table (b-2) shown in FIG. As a result, the gaming state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 returns from the probability variation gaming state to the normal gaming state, and the probability variation limiter 243 is reset. Even if the probability variation limiter 243 does not operate, if a winning combination without probability variation is won, the gaming state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 returns from the probability variation gaming state to the normal gaming state, and the probability variation limiter 243 is reset.

  In addition, when the jackpot is won based on the winning at the first start port 121, if the probability variation limiter 243 is not activated, the jackpot with a short time is obtained with a probability of 2% (8/400). On the other hand, when the probability variation limiter 243 is activated, it becomes a big hit with a short time with a probability of 10% (40/400), and the probability of going into a short time gaming state after the big hit game ends is five times.

[Games in the second aspect]
In the second aspect, since the electric tulip 123 and the big prize opening 125 of the second starting opening 122 are open, the game is aimed at winning a prize to the second starting opening 122 or the big winning opening 125 by right-handed. When winning at the second starting port 122, as in the case of the first starting port 121, a special symbol lottery is won with a probability of about 10%. When the probability variation limiter 243 does not operate, since the table (b-1) shown in FIG. 17A is used, almost (97%) is a big hit with probability variation, and the counter in the probability variation limiter 243 is used. The value is added. On the other hand, when the counter value reaches the set value and the probability variation limiter 243 is activated, the table (b-2) shown in FIG. As a result, the gaming state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 returns from the probability variation gaming state to the normal gaming state, and the probability variation limiter 243 is reset. Even if the probability variation limiter 243 does not operate, if a winning combination without probability variation is won, the gaming state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 returns from the probability variation gaming state to the normal gaming state, and the probability variation limiter 243 is reset.

  In addition, when a big win is won based on a winning at the second starting port 122, if the probability variation limiter 243 does not operate, it is always a big win with a short time. On the other hand, when the probability variation limiter 243 is operated, it is a big hit with a short time with a probability of 70% (280/400).

[Timing for transition from the first phase to the second phase]
The second aspect in the present embodiment is a state in which the electric tulip 123 or the special prize opening 125 of the second start port 122 is opened. Specifically, for example, a state in which a win-winning support (electrical chew support) is performed by opening the electric tulip 123 in a short-time gaming state, or a jackpot game per long corresponds to the second phase. On the other hand, in the present embodiment, all jackpots based on winning at the first start port 121 are short hits. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the trigger for shifting from the first phase to the second phase is mainly when the special symbol lottery based on winning a prize at the first starting port 121 is won in a jackpot with a short time. In the jackpot based on the winning at the first start port 121, the jackpot with a short time is only with no probability change + with a short time, and there is no jackpot with a certain time change + with a short time. Therefore, when shifting from the first phase to the second phase, the jackpot without any probability change is always won, so the counter value of the probability change limiter 243 is reset.

  As described above, in the special symbol lottery based on the winning at the first start port 121, the probability of winning a jackpot with a short time is 2% when the probability variation limiter 243 is not activated, and 10% when the probability variation limiter 243 is activated. It is. That is, by winning the jackpot with probability variation based on winning at the first start port 121, the counter value of the probability variation limiter 243 increases, and when the set value is reached, the jackpot with time reduction is won. Probability of transitioning to the next phase is 5 times. Since the second aspect is an advantageous aspect for the player, the player expects the operation of the probability variation limiter 243 by the change in the winning probability to the jackpot with a short time based on the counter value of the probability variation limiter 243. However, the pleasure of accumulating prizes at the first start port 121 can be obtained. It should be noted that, if the winning value without probability change is won before the counter value of the probability variation limiter 243 reaches the set value, the counter value is reset, and as a result, the number of winnings required until the probability variation limiter 243 operates increases. To do.

[Extension and continuation of games in the second phase]
If it transfers to a 2nd situation, it will come to win easily to the 2nd starting port 122 by right-handing for the winning support by the electric tulip 123. Here, since the big win game is a long win only when the big win is won in the special symbol lottery performed by winning the second start opening 122, the big win 125 is always opened for a long time. Further, when the probability variation limiter 243 is not activated, the winning support based on the electric tulip 123 is continued because the winning jackpot based on the winning at the second start port 122 is always a jackpot with a short time. Therefore, until the counter value of the probability variation limiter 243 reaches the set value, it can be expected that a large amount of game balls are paid out by winning to the big winning opening 125 and the second starting opening 122.

  Further, as described with reference to the table (b-1) in FIG. 17-1 (b), in the present embodiment, the jackpot based on the winning at the second start port 122 before the operation of the probability variation limiter 243 is performed. However, there is a possibility of winning a jackpot with no slight change (3% = 12/400). However, even when winning a winning jackpot without a certain change, as described above, the big winning opening 125 is opened and the winning support by the electric tulip 123 is continued. On the other hand, since the counter value of the probability variation limiter 243 is reset, the number of winnings required until the probability variation limiter 243 operates increases.

  Specifically, for example, a case is considered where a winning jackpot without probability change is won when the counter value of the probability changing limiter 243 is 4 (four winning winning jackpots with probability changing continuously). In this case, in addition to the number of times until the counter value reaches the set value after resetting, the first four jackpot games are added. This jackpot game is added any number of times when the jackpot without probability change is won before the counter value of the probability change limiter 243 reaches the set value. In other words, in the present embodiment, resetting the counter value of the probability variation limiter 243 in the second situation when the winning combination with no probability variation is won based on the winning at the second start port 122 is advantageous for the player. It means extending the game of the aspect.

  Also in the second aspect, when the counter value of the probability variation limiter 243 reaches the set value, the probability variation limiter 243 is activated and described with reference to the table (b-2) in FIG. As you can see, the next jackpot will always be a jackpot with no certainty. Therefore, the second aspect, which is an advantageous aspect for the player, is temporarily terminated. However, the jackpot at this time is a jackpot with a short time with a probability of 70%. And if a winning jackpot with a short time is won, winning support by the electric tulips 123 is performed, and the game in the second phase is continued (resumed).

[Notification of counter value of probability variation limiter]
According to the above game configuration example, whether or not the counter value of the probability variation limiter 243 has reached the set value greatly affects the probability of transition from the first phase to the second phase. Therefore, in the first aspect, when a certain condition is satisfied, information on the counter value of the probability variation limiter 243 (information such as the current counter value and the number of times until the set value is reached) is notified to the player. It is thought that it can arouse the player's further interest.

  Here, as a means for encouraging the player to participate in more aggressive games, it is considered to provide a mechanism for notifying information on the counter value of the probability variation limiter 243 according to the degree of game by the player. It is done. Specifically, for example, information is notified according to the number of game balls used in the game and the game time. In the present embodiment, the probability variation limiter is set according to the number of balls to be fired after the internal state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 becomes the probability variation game state (the number of balls to be fired by the launching device and sent to the game area 111). Information on the counter value 243 is notified.

  As described with reference to FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B, the number of shot balls (D) is calculated based on the shot ball detected by the shot ball detection switch 161 provided on the game board 110. Is obtained by counting by the shot ball counting unit 230 of As shown in FIG. 5B, the count value information is transmitted from the game control unit 200 to the effect control unit 300 as a notification command every time it reaches 1000 pieces. The effect control unit 300 performs a notification effect for notifying the player of information related to the counter value of the probability variation limiter 243 according to the value of the number of shot balls received from the game control unit 200.

  A notification method of information related to the counter value by the notification effect may be arbitrarily determined. For example, the counter value itself, a difference value between the set value at which the probability variation limiter 243 operates and the counter value, or a message suggesting these values are displayed on the image display unit 114 or output by voice. Also good. When the game or quiz is performed in the production, the game may be notified by the result of the game win / loss or quiz (for example, if the difference between the set value at which the probability variation limiter 243 operates and the counter value is equal to or smaller than a certain value, Etc.) Further, the notification may be performed only when the counter value of the probability variation limiter 243 is a predetermined specific value.

  In the notification effect, information regarding the counter value of the probability variation limiter 243 is not always provided to the player. An announcement lottery may be performed every time the notification conditions are satisfied as will be described later, and an effect that the notification is made with an appropriate probability may be performed, or the information notified to the player may be made ambiguous. good. For example, when n is the set value at which the probability variation limiter 243 is activated, the range from the counter value 1 to n-1 (or n) is divided into several blocks, and the counter value and the probability variation limiter 243 are activated for each block. Information or the like suggesting the number of remaining winnings until the game can be notified. When a plurality of notification conditions are set, the notification accuracy (probability of notification or information ambiguity) in the notification effect may differ depending on which notification condition is satisfied.

[Function of production control unit for reporting information on counter value of probability variation limiter]
As described above, the effect control unit 300 of the present embodiment has a function for notifying information related to the counter value of the probability variation limiter 243.
FIG. 19 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the effect control unit 300 for notifying information related to the counter value of the probability variation limiter 243.
As shown in FIG. 19, the effect control unit 300 includes an effect processing unit 331 and a notification determining unit 332. These functions are realized, for example, when the CPU 301 reads and executes a program stored in the ROM 302 of the effect control unit 300 shown in FIG.

  The effect processing unit 331 controls the image / sound control unit 310 and the lamp control unit 320, displays an image on the image display unit 114, outputs a sound by the speaker 156, blinks the frame lamp 157 and the panel lamp 116, and the movable accessory 115. Various effects are performed by means of driving the As the types of effects, there are effects performed when the internal state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 is a normal gaming state, the internal state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 becomes a probabilistic gaming state, and the number of consecutive wins with a promising change by the probabilistic limiter 243 is There are effects that are performed when the game is counted, effects that are performed when the time-short game state (should be right-handed), and the like.

  The notification determination unit 332 determines whether or not to perform effect control for notifying information related to the counter value of the probability variation limiter 243. The notification condition is determined based on the notification command received from the game control unit 200 and the number of shot balls obtained from the notification command. For example, when a notification command is received, a lottery (hereinafter referred to as notification lottery) for determining whether or not to perform a notification effect may be performed to determine whether or not to notify. Further, the value of the number of shot balls obtained from the notification command may be accumulated, and the notification effect may be mechanically performed when the cumulative value of the number of shot balls reaches a certain number (for example, 10,000). Further, by combining these, a notification lottery may be performed when the number of shot balls reaches a certain number.

[Operation example of notification determination unit]
FIG. 20 is a flowchart illustrating an operation example of the notification determination unit 332 when the notification lottery is performed when the number of shot balls reaches a certain number.
As shown in FIG. 20, when the notification determination unit 332 receives the notification command from the game control unit 200 (step 2001), the notification determination unit 332 enters the latent probability changing game state based on the count value of the number of shot balls obtained from the notification command. The cumulative value P of the number of shot balls is calculated (step 2002). Then, if the cumulative value P of the number of shot balls reaches a preset condition value Q, the notification determination unit 332 performs a notification lottery (steps 2003 and 2004).

  After the notification lottery in step 2004 is performed, the operation shifts from the notification determination unit 332 to the effect processing unit 331. And if a notification lottery is won, a notification effect is performed (steps 2005 and 2006). After winning, the cumulative value P of the number of shot balls is initialized (step 2007). On the other hand, in the case of not winning, the notification effect is not performed (steps 2005 and 2008).

  Here, a plurality of condition values Q can be set. For example, three kinds of condition values are set such that Q1 = 4000, Q2 = 7000, Q3 = 10000 or more. In step 2003, the winning probability in the notification lottery in step 2004 can be controlled differently depending on which of the condition values Q1, Q2, and Q3 the accumulated value P of the number of shot balls corresponds to.

FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of a random number table used for the notification lottery.
In the example shown in FIG. 21, the above three types of condition values Q1, Q2, and Q3 are set. A random value is assigned to each condition value. Specifically, the range of random number values is 10 from 0 to 9, and three values are assigned to “winning” as assignment of random values in the condition value Q1. In addition, six values are assigned to “winning” as assignment of random values in the condition value Q2. Further, nine values are assigned to “winning” as the assignment of random values in the condition value Q3.

  When the random number value is assigned in this way, the winning probability is 30 in the notification lottery performed when the cumulative value P of the number of shot balls after reaching the latent probability changing gaming state reaches the condition value Q1 = 4000. %. In the notice lottery performed when the cumulative value P of the number of shot balls reaches the condition value Q2 = 7000, the winning probability is 60%. In the notification lottery performed when the cumulative value P of the number of shot balls is equal to or greater than the condition value Q3 = 10000, the winning probability is 90%. In other words, the longer the game is played, the higher the probability of winning, and the information regarding the counter value of the probability variation limiter 243 is likely to be notified. Furthermore, although not illustrated in FIG. 21, for example, if all random values are assigned to “winning” in a predetermined condition value, the winning probability becomes 100%, and the cumulative value P of the number of shot balls reaches the condition value. If it does, it can control so that it may alert | report that the information regarding a counter value is surely carried out.

  In the above operation example, the notification lottery is performed on the condition that the cumulative value P of the number of shot balls has reached the condition value. However, if this condition value is set in units of 1000, the effect control is performed. The lottery is performed every time the unit 300 receives the notification command. Further, the fact that the production control unit 300 has received the notification command without using the cumulative value P of the number of shot balls may be used as the notification lottery execution condition.

[Other Embodiments]
In the present embodiment, the number of game balls used in the game and the game time are used as the notification condition of the information related to the counter value of the probability variation limiter 243. In the above embodiment, the number of shot balls is used as the number of game balls used in the game. On the other hand, as the number of game balls used in the game, the first start port 121, the second start port 122, the big winning port 125, and the normal winning port 126 (hereinafter collectively referred to as the game balls that have been launched). The number of game balls discharged from the discharge port 117 without winning a prize (the number of discharged balls) may be used.

FIG. 22 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of the control unit in the embodiment for detecting the number of discharged balls.
In this case, a discharge ball detection switch 163 for detecting a game ball discharged from the discharge port 117 is provided at the discharge port 117 of the game board 110 of the pachinko gaming machine 100 and is connected to the game control unit 200. The game control unit 200 counts the number of game balls (discharge balls) detected by the discharge ball detection switch 163. That is, the game control unit 200 and the discharge ball detection switch 163 function as a counting unit that counts the number of discharge balls discharged from the discharge port 117 (number of shot balls).
Also, in FIG. 22, the effect control unit 300 receives a count value of the number of discharged balls sent from the game control unit 200, and a notification for determining whether or not to report information related to the counter value of the probability variation limiter 243. Make a lottery. Then, the production contents are set according to the lottery result.

FIG. 23 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the game control unit 200 in the embodiment for detecting the number of discharged balls.
Referring to FIG. 23, the game control unit 200 includes a discharged ball counting unit 244 as a functional unit that counts the number of discharged balls. 23, the special symbol lottery unit 231, the normal symbol lottery unit 232, the special symbol fluctuation control unit 233, the special symbol lottery result determination unit 234, the fluctuation pattern selection unit 235, the game progress control unit 236, and the normal symbol control unit 237 The winning prize opening operation control unit 238, the electric tulip operation control unit 239, the prize ball processing unit 240, the output control unit 241, and the random number control unit 242 are the same as the functional units shown in FIG. The detailed description is omitted.

  In the present embodiment, the discharge ball detection switch process is performed in the switch process shown in FIG. In the discharge ball detection switch process, the discharge ball counting unit 244 of the game control unit 200 monitors the state of the discharge ball detection switch 163 in FIG. 22 under a certain condition and counts the number of times the switch is turned on.

[Discharged ball detection switch processing in game control unit]
FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing the contents of the discharge ball detection switch process.
In this discharged ball detection switch process, the discharged ball counting unit 244 of the game control unit 200 counts the number of discharged balls after the pachinko gaming machine 100 is in the probable gaming state. That is, as shown in FIG. 24, the discharge ball counting unit 244 first determines whether or not the discharge ball detection switch 163 is turned on (step 2401). If the discharge ball detection switch 163 is turned on, Next, the discharged ball counting unit 244 determines whether or not the pachinko gaming machine 100 is in the probability variation gaming state (step 2402). If the game state is a probabilistic gaming state, the discharged ball counting unit 244 adds 1 to the counted value of the number E of discharged balls (step 2403). Next, the discharged ball counting unit 244 determines whether or not the number E of discharged balls has reached a preset condition value (step 2404). In the example shown in FIG. 24, the condition value is 1000.
If the number E of discharged balls reaches the condition value, the discharged ball counting unit 244 stores the counted value of the number E of discharged balls E in the RAM 203 (step 2405). The count value of the number E of discharged balls stored in the RAM 203 is transmitted to the effect control unit 300 as a notification command in the output process shown in step 506 of FIG. That is, in this embodiment, instead of the count value of the number of shot balls in the above embodiment, the count value of the number of discharged balls is included in the notification command and transmitted.

In the present embodiment, the notification determining unit 332 of the effect control unit 300 determines whether or not to perform the notification effect based on the notification command received from the game control unit 200 and the number of discharged balls obtained from the notification command. . The function and operation of the notification determination unit 332 are the same as those of the notification determination unit 332 in the above-described embodiment described with reference to FIGS. 19 and 20. However, it differs from the above embodiment in that the number of discharged balls is used instead of the number of shot balls. For example, also in this embodiment, a specific operation similar to that in FIG. 20 can be realized. In this case, the notification determination unit 332 compares the accumulated number P of discharged balls with the condition value to determine whether or not to perform a notification effect.
In the present embodiment, as the value representing the number of game balls used in the game, the number of discharged balls is used instead of the number of shot balls. However, the number of shot balls and the number of discharged balls are used in combination. May be.

  In addition, as a condition for notifying the information related to the counter value of the probability variation limiter 243, the number of game balls used in the game (the number of shot balls or the number of discharged balls) is not used, but the game time is used. Also good. In this case, for example, using the real time clock (RTC) 304 of the effect control unit 300 or the timer of the CPU 301, the elapsed time after entering the latent probability changing gaming state is measured. When the elapsed time reaches a preset condition value, a notification effect is performed. Alternatively, a notification lottery is performed when the elapsed time reaches the condition value, and a notification effect is performed when the winning time is won. The effect control unit 300 recognizes that the pachinko gaming machine 100 is in a probable gaming state based on the control command acquired from the game control unit 200.

  Furthermore, in each of the above embodiments, the pachinko gaming machine 100 itself determines whether or not to notify the information regarding the counter value of the probability variation limiter 243, but the number of discharged balls is used as the number of game balls used in the game. When used, it is also possible to determine whether or not to report information related to the counter value of the probability variation limiter 243 in each pachinko gaming machine 100 by the host computer installed in the hall.

  As shown in FIGS. 3 and 22, the game control unit 200 is connected to the host computer in the hall via the board external information terminal board 250. In order to manage each pachinko gaming machine 100, the host computer acquires information on the number of winning balls, the state of the game control unit 200, and the like. The information acquired by the host computer is sent to the pachinko machine via the discharge port 117. The number of game balls discharged from the gaming machine 100 (the number of discharged balls) is also included. Therefore, in the host computer, regarding the pachinko gaming machine 100 that is in the probability variation gaming state, the number of balls discharged after becoming the probability variation gaming state is counted, and information on the counter value of the probability variation limiter 243 is notified based on the counted value. Decide whether or not. The process for determining whether or not to report information related to the counter value is the same as the process performed by the notification determination unit 332 in the above embodiment.

  However, the host computer cannot instruct the production control unit 300 of each pachinko gaming machine 100 to perform a specific production. Therefore, in the embodiment in which it is determined whether or not to notify the information related to the counter value of the probability variation limiter 243 in the host computer, the blinking of the top lamp, which is a hall facility that can be controlled by the host computer, is used. It is conceivable to notify information on the counter value.

  In the present embodiment, the player is notified of information related to the counter value of the probability variation limiter 243 in the first aspect. On the other hand, in the second aspect, the player may be notified of information related to the counter value of the probability variation limiter 243 as appropriate.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 ... Pachinko machine, 114 ... Image display part, 117 ... Discharge port, 121 ... 1st starting port, 122 ... 2nd starting port, 123 ... Electric tulip, 124 ... Gate, 125 ... Grand prize opening, 161 ... Launch ball Detection switch, 163 ... Ejected ball detection switch, 200 ... Game control unit, 300 ... Production control unit, 331 ... Production processing unit, 332 ... Notification determination unit

Claims (7)

A gaming machine in which production control is performed in accordance with the progress control of a game by a game ball,
A first winning opening provided so as to make it easier to win when a game ball is driven into the left half area of the game area than to be driven into the right half area of the game area;
When a game ball is driven into the right half area of the game area, it is provided so that it is easier to win than when it is driven into the left half area of the game area. A second winning opening that changes to a state,
It is a lottery regarding the operation of a special electric accessory that is triggered by the winning of a game ball in the first prize opening or the second prize opening, and at least the operation of the special electric accessory is completed as a lottery result of the winning lottery The probability change jackpot that the probability that the gaming state of the gaming machine later wins the lottery will be higher than the normal gaming state and the gaming state of the gaming machine after the operation of the special electric accessory is the normal gaming state Including a jackpot including a normal jackpot, including a long hit for which the operation time of the special electric accessory is long and a short hit which is shorter than the case where the operation time of the special electric accessory is a long hit, A jackpot with a prize support is provided as a bonus, in which a prize support is provided that increases the opening time when the second prize opening is opened after the operation of the special electric accessory is completed. No, a lottery means for performing the lottery,
A limiter that counts the number of consecutive winnings in the probability variation jackpot in the lottery means, and determines whether or not a predetermined set value has been reached;
When winning a jackpot in the lottery, which was triggered by winning the first prize opening, the short win is won, and a prize is won in the lottery, which was triggered by winning the second prize opening. If the winning is a big hit in the lottery when the limiter reaches the set value among the lottery performed with the winning in the first winning opening as a trigger, The limiter of the lottery was triggered by the winning of the second prize opening with a higher probability than the case of winning the jackpot in the lottery before reaching the set value and winning the second prize opening. When winning the jackpot in the lottery when the set value is reached, the probability is lower than when winning the jackpot in the lottery before the limiter reaches the set value Controls the game so that the pay-assisted jackpot, a game control unit which counts the number of gaming balls used in the game, and outputs a count value,
In the gaming state where the winning support is not performed , when the count value output from the game control unit is acquired and the notification condition based on the count value is satisfied, the winning count counted by the limiter is calculated. An effect control unit for performing a notification effect for notifying information on a limiter count value that is a value;
A gaming machine comprising: The game control unit
Connected to a launch ball detection switch that detects a game ball that has been launched and sent to the game area,
2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the number of game balls detected by the shot ball detection switch is counted. The game control unit
Connected to a discharge ball detection switch that detects a game ball discharged from the discharge port of the game board,
The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the number of game balls detected by the discharge ball detection switch is counted. The game control unit outputs the count value every time the count value of the game balls reaches a certain number,
The said effect control part accumulates the said count value acquired from the said game control part, and when the said accumulated value reaches a predetermined value, the said notification effect is performed, The Claim 1 thru | or 3 characterized by the above-mentioned. A gaming machine according to any one of the above.   When the said effect control part performs the notification lottery for determining whether the said notification effect is performed when the said count value of a game ball reaches the preset condition value, and wins the said notification lottery The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the notification effect is performed.   6. The gaming machine according to claim 5, wherein a plurality of the condition values are set, and a winning probability in the notification effect is individually set for each of the condition values. The game control unit outputs the count value every time the count value of the game balls reaches a certain number,
The effect control unit accumulates the count value acquired from the game control unit, performs a notification lottery to determine whether or not to perform the notification effect when the accumulated value reaches a predetermined value, The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the notification effect is performed when the notification lottery is won.

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