JP5684779B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine.

  Conventionally, in a gaming machine that uses a game ball to play a game, when the game ball enters (wins) at the start opening, the special symbol display device starts to display the variation of the special symbol, and a predetermined special symbol (big win symbol) When it is stopped and displayed, the special game (big hit) is controlled. In the special game, a prize ball corresponding to the game ball won in the opened big prize opening is paid out to the player.

  In addition, the gaming machine displays various effect images on the liquid crystal display device in accordance with the change display of the special symbol in the special symbol display device in order to increase the expectation of the player for the special game.

  The gaming machine performs drawing control of the image data of the effect image by drawing control based on the specified effect content. Some of these gaming machines include a liquid crystal control CPU and a VDP (Video Display Processor), and perform rendering control of an effect image displayed on the liquid crystal display device.

  For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a liquid crystal control CPU that generates control data necessary for performing display control of a liquid crystal display device and outputs the control data to a VDP, and a liquid crystal control ROM that includes a program describing the operation procedure of the liquid crystal control CPU. And a gaming machine including a control unit on which a liquid crystal control RAM functioning as a work area or a buffer memory is mounted.

  In this patent document, a video display processor VDP that is connected to a liquid crystal control CPU and performs image expansion processing, an image data ROM that stores image data required for image expansion by the VDP, and VDP Is provided with a VRAM for temporarily storing the image data developed.

JP 2011-234759 A

  A gaming machine that performs rendering control of an effect image using such a liquid crystal control CPU and VDP is usually an image forming process that includes a group of commands related to rendering (drawing control commands), on which the liquid crystal control CPU is based on the image instruction of the effect image. Output information to VDP. As a result, the VDP performs rendering control of the effect image based on the image forming information.

  In the rendering control of the effect image, every time the rendering control of the effect image is performed, the liquid crystal control CPU generates image forming information and outputs it to the VDP. For this reason, it has been difficult to perform the rendering control process of the effect image based on the image forming information at high speed and with high accuracy.

  Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine capable of performing rendering control processing of effect images at high speed and with high accuracy.

In order to achieve the above object, the invention of claim 1 is directed to image drawing instruction means for instructing drawing of an effect image based on image forming information for forming an effect image to be displayed in the case of an effect using a game medium. comprising a drawing control means for drawing control of the presentation image based on the previous SL image forming information, and display means for displaying Starring output images controlled drawn by the drawing control unit, the drawing control unit, the First storage means for storing the image forming information transmitted from the image drawing instruction means, second storage means for storing the image forming information stored in the first storage means, and the first storage means Transfer control means for performing transfer control for transferring the image forming information stored in the second storage means, and rendering control of the effect image based on the image forming information stored in the second storage means. An image drawing control unit, and the image drawing instruction unit generates the image forming information and transmits the generated image forming information to the first storage unit, and then instructs the drawing of the effect image based on the image forming information. Instruction information is transmitted to the image drawing control means, and the image drawing control means sends the transfer control means from the first storage means to the transfer control means based on the drawing instruction information transmitted from the image drawing instruction means. Instructing the transfer of the image forming information to the second storage means, the transfer control means, the image forming information stored in the first storage means based on the instruction by the image drawing control means, the second storage means 's were transferred to the storage unit, the image drawing control unit, based on the first image forming information stored in said second storage means is transferred from the storage means by said transfer control means, the effect image It is a game machine for drawing control.

  According to the present invention, in the gaming machine, it is possible to perform the rendering control process of the effect image at high speed and with high accuracy.

It is a front view of the gaming machine in the embodiment of the present invention. It is a perspective view of the state where the glass frame provided in the front of the gaming machine in the embodiment of the present invention was opened. It is a perspective view of the back surface side of the gaming machine in the embodiment of the present invention. It is a block diagram which shows the whole structure of the game machine in embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the determination table which performs the hit determination for every special symbol and normal symbol performed in the gaming machine in the embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the symbol determination table which determines the stop symbol of the special symbol in the gaming machine in the embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the big hit game completion setting data table for determining the game state after the big hit game performed with the game machine in embodiment of this invention is complete | finished. It is a figure which shows an example of the special electric accessory operating mode determination table for determining a big prize opening opening mode table. It is a figure which shows the structure of the special winning opening opening | release aspect table determined using the special electric accessory operation | movement determination table. It is a figure which shows the fluctuation pattern determination table which determines the fluctuation pattern of a special symbol. It is a figure which shows an example of the production | presentation pattern determination table for determining the fluctuation | variation aspect of the production | presentation symbol displayed in a 1st liquid crystal display device and a 2nd liquid crystal display device. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the frame buffer used in the image control board of the game machine in embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the animation information used in the image control board of the game machine in embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the animation pattern determination table which determines the animation pattern which comprises animation information based on a production pattern designation | designated command. It is an example of a display list that is image forming information that is a group of commands (drawing control commands) related to drawing, which is a basis for drawing instructions for effect images. It is a functional block diagram which shows the detailed structure at the time of performing drawing control of the effect image based on the display list of the image control board with which the game machine in embodiment of this invention is provided. It is a flowchart which shows the detailed flow of the main process performed with the main control board of the game machine in embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the detailed flow of the timer interruption process performed with the main control board of the game machine in embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the detailed flow of the special figure special electricity control process performed with the main control board of the game machine in embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the detailed flow of the special symbol memory | storage determination processing performed with the main control board of the game machine in embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the detailed flow of the main process performed with the presentation control board of the gaming machine in the embodiment of the present invention. It is a flowchart which shows the detailed flow of the timer interruption process performed with the presentation control board of the gaming machine in the embodiment of the present invention. It is a 1st flowchart which shows the detailed flow of the command analysis process performed with the presentation control board of the game machine in embodiment of this invention. It is a 2nd flowchart which shows the continuation of the 1st flowchart which shows the detailed flow of the command analysis process performed with the presentation control board of the gaming machine in the embodiment of the present invention. It is a flowchart which shows the detailed flow of the drawing control process performed in the image control board of the game machine in embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the detailed flow of the interruption process performed in the image control board of the game machine in embodiment of this invention. It is a timing chart which shows the time flow of the drawing control process performed with the game machine in this Embodiment. It is a timing chart which shows the time flow of the drawing control process performed with the game machine in this Embodiment.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment of a gaming machine according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a front view showing an example of a device configuration of a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a state in which the glass frame provided on the front surface of the gaming machine in the embodiment of the present invention is opened. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the back side of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the overall configuration of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  The gaming machine 1 includes an outer frame 60 attached to an island facility of a game store, and a glass frame 50 that is rotatably supported by the outer frame 60 (see FIGS. 1 and 2). In addition, the outer frame 60 is provided with a game board 2 in which a game area 6 in which the game ball 200 flows down is formed. In the glass frame 50, an operation handle 3 for launching a game ball toward the game area 6 by being rotated, an audio output device 32 including a speaker, an effect lighting device 34 having a plurality of lamps, An effect button 35 for changing the effect mode by pressing operation and a cross key 36 capable of pressing operation in at least two directions (usually four directions) are provided.

  Further, the glass frame 50 is provided with a tray 40 for storing a plurality of game balls 200, and the tray 40 has a downward slope so that the game balls flow down toward the operation handle 3. (See FIG. 2). A receiving opening for receiving a game ball is provided at the end of the downward slope of the tray 40, and the game ball received in the receiving opening is driven by the ball feed solenoid 4b, so that the glass frame 50 One game ball is sent to the ball feed opening 41 provided on the back surface one by one.

  Then, the game ball sent out to the ball feed opening 41 is guided to the end of the downward slope of the launch rail 42 by the launch rail 42 having a downward slope toward the launching member 4c. A stopper 43 for stopping and stopping the game ball is provided above the end of the firing rail 42 that is inclined downward, and the game ball sent out from the ball feed opening 41 is the end of the downward inclination of the launch rail 42. One game ball is stopped at the section (see FIG. 2).

  Then, when the player rotates the operation handle 3, the launch volume 3b directly connected to the operation handle 3 also rotates, and the launch intensity of the game ball is adjusted by the launch volume 3b, and the launch is performed with the adjusted launch intensity. The launch member 4c directly connected to the solenoid 4a for rotation rotates. As the launch member 4c rotates, the launch ball 4c launches the game ball stored at the end of the downward slope of the launch rail 42, and the game ball is launched into the game area 6.

  When the game ball fired as described above rises between the rails 5a and 5b from the launch rail 42 and exceeds the ball return prevention piece 5c, the game ball reaches the game area 6 and then freely falls within the game area 6. . At this time, the game ball falls unpredictably by a plurality of nails and windmills provided in the game area 6.

  The game area 6 is provided with a plurality of general winning awards 12.

  Each of these general winning ports 12 is provided with a general winning port detecting switch 12a. When the general winning port detecting switch 12a detects a winning of a game ball, a predetermined winning ball (for example, ten game balls) is provided. To be paid out.

  Further, in the area below the center of the game area 6, there are a first start port 14 and a second start port 15 that constitute a start area into which game balls can enter, and a second large area in which game balls can enter. A winning opening 17 is provided.

  The second start port 15 includes a pair of second start port movable pieces 15b, and the pair of second start port movable pieces 15b is maintained in a closed state. The pair of second start opening movable pieces 15b are controlled to move to the “second mode” in which the pair is opened.

  At this time, when the second start port 15 is controlled to the second mode, the pair of second start port movable pieces 15b function as a tray, and a game ball wins the second start port 15. It becomes easy. That is, when the second start port 15 is in the first mode, there is no game ball winning opportunity, and when it is in the second mode, the game ball winning opportunity is increased as compared to the first mode.

  Here, the first start port 14 is provided with a first start port detection switch 14a for detecting the entrance of a game ball, and the second start port 15 is provided with a second start port detection switch for detecting the entrance of a game ball. 15a is provided. When the first start port detection switch 14a or the second start port detection switch 15a detects the entry of a game ball, a special symbol determination random number value is acquired, and a right acquisition lottery (to be described later) Hereinafter, “Lottery for jackpot” is performed.

  In addition, when the first start port detection switch 14a or the second start port detection switch 15a detects the entry of a game ball, the predetermined start port detection switch 12a is set in a predetermined manner in the same manner as when the general winning port detection switch 12a detects the winning of a game ball. Prize balls (for example, three game balls) are paid out.

  In addition, the second grand prize winning port 17 is configured by an opening formed in the game board 2.

  A movable piece 17b for the second big prize opening is provided at the right end of the second big prize opening 17, and the second big prize prize is moved by moving one of the movable pieces 17b for the second big prize opening as a fulcrum. An open state that makes it easy to win the mouth 17 and a closed state that cannot win a prize are controlled.

  When the movable piece 17b for the second big prize opening is opened, the movable piece 17b for the second big prize opening functions as a tray for guiding the game ball into the second big prize opening 17, and the game ball is the second. It is possible to enter the big winning opening 17. The second big prize opening 17 is provided with a second big prize opening detection switch 17a. When the second big prize opening detection switch 17a detects the entry of a game ball, a predetermined prize ball ( For example, 15 game balls) are paid out.

  Furthermore, in the area on the right side of the game area 6, there are provided a normal symbol gate 13 constituting a normal area through which game balls can pass and a first grand prize opening 16 through which game balls can enter.

  For this reason, if the operation handle 3 is rotated largely and a game ball is not launched with a greater force than the game ball is launched in the left area of the game area 6, the game will be displayed in the normal symbol gate 13 and the first big prize opening 16. The ball is configured not to pass or win.

  In particular, even if the short game state, which will be described later, is entered, if the game ball flows down to the left side of the game area 6, the game ball will not normally pass through the symbol gate 13, so that it is at the second start port 15. The pair of second start opening movable pieces 15b are not opened, and it is difficult for a game ball to win the second start opening 15.

The normal symbol gate 13 is provided with a gate detection switch 13a for detecting the passage of the game ball. When the gate detection switch 13a detects the passage of the game ball, the normal symbol determination random number value is acquired, which will be described later. “Normal lottery” is performed. This normal symbol gate 13 is also provided in the area on the right side of the game area.
The first grand prize opening 16 is normally kept closed by the first big prize opening opening / closing door 16b, and it is impossible to enter a game ball. In contrast, when a special game, which will be described later, is started, the first grand prize opening opening / closing door 16b is opened, and the first big prize opening opening / closing door 16b puts the game ball in the first big winning opening 16; It functions as a receiving tray that guides the game ball and can enter the first grand prize opening 16. The first grand prize opening 16 is provided with a first big prize opening detection switch 16a. When the first big prize opening detection switch 16a detects the entry of a game ball, a predetermined prize ball (for example, 15 Game balls).

  Further, in the lowermost area of the game area 6 and the lowermost area of the game area 6, the general winning opening 12, the first starting opening 14, the second starting opening 15, the first major winning opening 16, and the second large winning opening. An out port 11 is provided for discharging game balls that have not entered any of the winning ports 17.

  In addition, a decoration member 7 that affects the flow of the game ball is provided in the center of the game area 6. A first liquid crystal display device 31 (hereinafter also referred to as “main liquid crystal”) configured by an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) or the like is provided at a substantially central portion of the decorative member 7, and the first liquid crystal display device. An effect driving device 33 having a mask shape is provided above 31. A second liquid crystal display device 37 (hereinafter also referred to as “sub liquid crystal”) having a size smaller than that of the first liquid crystal display device 31 is provided below the first liquid crystal display device 31.

  FIG. 1 shows an example of the second liquid crystal display device 37 having a size (4.3 inches) smaller than the size (19 inches) of the first liquid crystal display device 31 as an example. The second liquid crystal display device 37 may be larger in size than the first liquid crystal display device 31.

  The first liquid crystal display device 31 displays a demo image during standby when no effects are being performed, or displays an image according to the progress of the game. Among them, three effect symbols 38 for informing a lottery lottery result to be described later are displayed, and a combination of specific effect symbols 38 (for example, 777) is stopped and displayed as a result of the jackpot lottery. A big hit is announced.

  More specifically, when a game ball enters the first start port 14 or the second start port 15, the three effect symbols 38 are displayed in a variable manner by scroll display (rotation display), and a predetermined time has elapsed. Later, the scrolling is stopped, and the effect design 38 is stopped and displayed. Further, by displaying an effect image composed of characters or the like to be displayed during the effect display during the effect symbol 38 display, it is possible to give the player a high expectation that the player may win a jackpot. Yes.

  The effect driving device 33 gives a player a sense of expectation by an operation mode using the effect image.

  The effect driving device 33 can move in the vertical direction (of course, not limited to the vertical direction but can be moved in the vertical and horizontal directions), and moves in the vertical direction to the front surface of the first liquid crystal display device 31. Will be. In addition, the effect driving device 33 is equipped with an effect lighting device 34 and lights up in conjunction with the movement of the effect driving device 33 or independently.

The second liquid crystal display device 37 can also be moved by being driven in the same manner as the effect driving device 33. The second liquid crystal display device 37 shown in FIG. The state stored in the mode is shown. From this state, the second liquid crystal display device 37 is spirally rotated, so that it is possible to adopt a vertical orientation in which the long side is in the left-right direction and the short side is in the up-down direction.
The second liquid crystal display device 37 moves to the front surface of the first liquid crystal display device when the vertical orientation is achieved.

  Further, the relationship between the position of the second liquid crystal display device 37 in the vertical orientation and the position when the effect driving device 33 moves downward is determined by placing the second liquid crystal display device 37 on the front surface of the effect driving device 33. The relationship may be an arrangement relationship, or conversely, an effect drive device 33 may be arranged on the front surface of the second liquid crystal display device 37.

  Furthermore, in addition to the above-described various production devices, the audio output device 32 outputs BGM (background music), SE (sound effects), etc., and produces productions using sound. The illumination direction and the emission color of the light are changed to produce effects by illumination, and are provided at a plurality of positions.

  In the lower right of the game area 6, a first special symbol display device 20, a second special symbol display device 21, a normal symbol display device 22, a first special symbol hold indicator 23, a second special symbol hold indicator 24, a normal A symbol hold indicator 25 is provided.

  The first special symbol display device 20 informs the result of the jackpot lottery performed when a game ball has entered the first start port 14, and is a plurality of lighting composed of LEDs or the like. It is comprised by the member. One or more predetermined lighting members blink according to the result of the lottery lottery, and the lighting members in the blinking state are lit simultaneously with the stop display of the effect symbol 38.

  The first special symbol display device 20 can also be configured by a 7-segment LED. That is, a plurality of special symbols corresponding to the jackpot lottery result are provided, and the lottery result is notified to the player by displaying the special symbol corresponding to the jackpot lottery result on the first special symbol display device 20. I am doing so. For example, “7” is displayed when the jackpot is won, and “−” is displayed when the player wins. “7” and “−” displayed in this way are special symbols, but these special symbols are not displayed immediately, but are displayed in a stopped state after being displayed for a predetermined time. .

  Here, the “successful lottery” means that when a game ball enters the first starting port 14 or the second starting port 15, a special symbol determining random number value is acquired, and the acquired special symbol determining random value is acquired. Is a random number value corresponding to “big hit” or a random number value corresponding to “small hit”. The jackpot lottery result is not immediately notified to the player, and the first special symbol display device 20 displays a variation such as blinking of the special symbol, and when the predetermined variation time has passed, the jackpot lottery result The special symbol corresponding to is stopped and displayed so that the player is notified of the lottery result.

  The second special symbol display device 21 is for notifying a lottery result of a jackpot that is performed when a game ball enters the second start port 15, and the display mode is the above-described first display mode. This is the same as the special symbol display mode in the special symbol display device 20.

  Further, in this embodiment, “big hit” means that a right to win a big hit game is obtained in a big win lottery performed on condition that a game ball has entered the first start port 14 or the second start port 15 Say what you did. In the “hit game”, a round game in which the first big prize opening 16 or the second big prize opening 17 is opened is performed a predetermined number of times (for example, 15 times). A predetermined time is set for the maximum opening time of the first grand prize port 16 or the second grand prize port 17 in each round game, and during this time, the first grand prize port 16 or the second grand prize port 17 is set. When a predetermined number of game balls (for example, nine) enter, one round game is completed.

  In other words, the “big hit game” is a game in which a game ball can enter the first grand prize winning opening 16 or the second big winning prize opening 17 and the player can acquire a winning ball according to the winning prize.

  The normal symbol display device 22 is for notifying the lottery result of the normal symbol that is performed when the game ball passes through the normal symbol gate 13. As will be described in detail later, when the winning symbol is won by the normal symbol lottery, the normal symbol display device 22 is turned on, and then the second start port 15 is controlled to the second mode for a predetermined time.

  Here, “normal symbol lottery” means that when a game ball passes through the normal symbol gate 13, the normal symbol determination random number value is acquired, and the acquired normal symbol determination random value corresponds to “winning”. This is a process for determining whether or not a random value. The lottery result of the normal symbol is not always notified immediately after the game ball passes through the normal symbol gate 13, but the normal symbol display device 22 displays a variation such as blinking of the normal symbol. When the fluctuation time elapses, the normal symbol corresponding to the lottery result of the normal symbol is stopped and displayed so that the player is notified of the lottery result.

  Furthermore, if a game ball enters the first start port 14 or the second start port 15 during special symbol fluctuation display or a special game to be described later, and if a big win lottery cannot be performed immediately, a certain condition The right to win a jackpot will be withheld.

  More specifically, the random number value for special symbol determination acquired when the game ball enters the first start port 14 is stored as the first hold, and when the game ball enters the second start port 15 The acquired special symbol determination random number value is stored as the second hold.

  For both of these holds (first hold and second hold), the upper limit hold number is set to four, and the hold numbers are respectively set to the first special symbol hold indicator 23 and the second special symbol hold indicator 24. Is displayed.

  When there is one first hold, the leftmost LED of the first special symbol hold indicator 23 lights up, and when there are two first holds, the leftmost end of the first special symbol hold indicator 23 The two LEDs turn on. When there are three first holds, three LEDs blink from the leftmost end of the first special symbol hold indicator 23 and the right LED is lit. When there are four first holds, the first Four LEDs blink from the leftmost end of the special symbol hold indicator 23.

  The second special symbol hold indicator 24 also displays the number of second hold on hold in the same manner as described above.

  The upper limit reserved number of normal symbols is also set to four, and the reserved number of normal symbols is displayed in the same manner as the first special symbol hold indicator 23 and the second special symbol hold indicator 24. Displayed on the instrument 25.

  The glass frame 50 supports a glass plate 52 that covers the game area 6 so as to be visible in front of the game board 2 (player side). The glass plate 52 is detachably fixed to the glass frame 50.

  The glass frame 50 is connected to the outer frame 60 via a hinge mechanism 51 on one end side in the left-right direction (for example, the left side facing the gaming machine 1). The end side (for example, the right side facing the gaming machine 1) can be rotated in a direction to release from the outer frame 60. The glass frame 50 covers the game board 2 together with the glass plate 52, and can be opened like a door with the hinge mechanism 51 as a fulcrum to open the inner part of the outer frame 60 including the game board 2.

  On the other end side of the glass frame 50, a lock mechanism for fixing the other end side of the glass frame 50 to the outer frame 60 is provided. The fixing by the lock mechanism can be released by a dedicated key. The glass frame 50 is also provided with a door opening switch 133 that detects whether or not the glass frame 50 is opened from the outer frame 60.

  On the back surface of the gaming machine 1, as shown in FIG. 3, a main control board 110, an effect control board 120, a payout control board 130, a power supply board 170, a game information output terminal board 30, and the like are provided. The power supply board 170 is provided with a power plug 171 for supplying power to the gaming machine 1 and a power switch (not shown).

  Next, control means for controlling the progress of the game will be described using the block diagram of the entire gaming machine 1 in FIG.

  The main control board 110 is a main control means for controlling the basic operation of the game, and receives various detection signals from the first start port detection switch 14a, etc., and the first special symbol display device 20 and the first big winning port opening / closing solenoid. The game is controlled by driving 16c and the like.

  The main control board 110 includes at least a one-chip microcomputer 110m including a main CPU 110a, a main ROM 110b, and a main RAM 110c, an input port for main control, and an output port (not shown).

  The main control input port includes a payout control board 130, a general winning port detection switch 12a for detecting that a game ball has entered the general winning port 12, and a game ball having entered the normal symbol gate 13. Gate detection switch 13a to detect, first start port detection switch 14a to detect that a game ball has entered the first start port 14, and second start to detect that a game ball has entered the second start port 15 The mouth detection switch 15a, the first grand prize opening detection switch 16a that detects that a game ball has entered the first grand prize opening 16, and the second that detects that a game ball has entered the second grand prize opening 17 A big prize opening detection switch 17a is connected. Various signals are input to the main control board 110 through the main control input port.

  The output port for main control includes a payout control board 130, a start port opening / closing solenoid 15c for opening / closing the pair of second start port movable pieces 15b of the second start port 15, and a first big prize opening opening / closing door 16b. The first large winning opening / closing solenoid 16c for operating the second large winning opening / closing solenoid 17c for operating the movable piece 17b for the second large winning opening, the first special symbol display device 20 for displaying special symbols, and the second special symbol. Display device 21, normal symbol display device 22 for displaying normal symbols, first special symbol hold indicator 23 and second special symbol hold indicator 24 for displaying the number of reserved symbols for special symbols, and the number of reserved balls for normal symbols The normal symbol hold display 25 and the game information output terminal board 30 for outputting an external information signal are connected. Various signals are output from the main control output port.

  The main CPU 110a reads out a program stored in the main ROM 110b based on an input signal from each detection switch or timer, performs arithmetic processing, directly controls each device or display, or determines the result of the arithmetic processing. In response, a command is transmitted to another board.

  The main CPU 110a can perform a jackpot lottery on the holding ball before the lottery process on the holding ball and pre-acquire (pre-read) the lottery result. The image is sent to the image control board 150 via the control board 120.

  The main ROM 110b of the main control board 110 stores a game control program and data and tables necessary for determining various games. For example, (1) a jackpot determination table referred to in the jackpot lottery, (2) a hit determination table referred to in the normal symbol lottery, (3) a symbol determination table for determining a special symbol stop symbol, and (4) a jackpot end Big hit game end setting data table for determining the subsequent gaming state, (5) Special electric accessory actuating mode determination table for determining the opening / closing conditions of the opening / closing doors of the first big winning opening 16 and the second big winning opening 17 , (6) a big prize opening opening mode table for designating an opening mode of the first big winning opening 16 and the second big winning opening 17, (6) a variation pattern determining table for determining a variation pattern of special symbols, and the like. Yes.

  Note that the above-described table is merely an example of characteristic tables among the tables in the present embodiment, and a number of other tables and programs (not shown) are provided for the progress of the game. ing.

  Next, details of various tables stored in the main ROM 110b of the main control board 110 will be described with reference to FIGS.

  FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a determination table for performing a hit determination for each special symbol and normal symbol performed in the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  FIG. 5 (a-1) and FIG. 5 (a-2) are diagrams showing a jackpot determination table used for the “big winner lottery”.

  FIG. 5A-1 is a jackpot determination table (a jackpot determination table for the first special symbol display device) referred to in the first special symbol display device 20, and FIG. It is a jackpot determination table (a jackpot determination table for the second special symbol display device) referred to in the special symbol display device 21. In the tables of FIG. 5 (a-1) and FIG. 5 (a-2), although the winning probabilities for small hits are different, the jackpot probabilities are the same.

  Specifically, the big hit determination table is for determining “big hit”, “small hit”, or “losing” based on the current probability gaming state and the acquired random numbers for determining special symbols.

  For example, according to the jackpot determination table for the first special symbol display device shown in FIG. 5 (a-1), in the low probability gaming state, all the special symbol determinations “7” and “8” are performed. On the other hand, when the random number value is determined to be a jackpot, all the 20 special symbol determination random numbers “7” to “26” are determined to be a jackpot when the gaming state is a high probability game state.

  Further, according to the jackpot determination table for the first special symbol display device shown in FIG. 5 (a-1), the special symbol determination for either the low probability gaming state or the high probability gaming state. When the random number values are all four special symbol determination random values of “50”, “100”, “150”, and “200”, it is determined as “small hit”. Although not shown, when the random number is other than the special symbol determination random number shown above, it is determined as “lost”.

  Accordingly, since the random number range of the special symbol determination random number value is “0” to “598”, the probability of being determined as “big hit” in the low-probability gaming state is “1 / 299.5” and high The probability of being determined as “big hit” in the probability gaming state is “1 / 29.9”, which is approximately 10 times.

  Further, in the first special symbol display device 20, the probability of being determined as “small hit” is “1 / 149.75” regardless of whether the gaming state is the low probability gaming state or the high probability gaming state.

  Next, FIG. 5B is a diagram showing a hit determination table used for “ordinary symbol lottery”.

  Specifically, the winning determination table is for determining “winning” or “losing” based on the presence / absence of the short-time gaming state and the acquired random number for normal symbol determination.

  For example, according to the hit determination table shown in FIG. 5B, in the non-short-time gaming state, one normal symbol determination random value of “0” is determined to be a win, while in the short-time gaming state. In some cases, it is determined that all 65535 normal symbol determining random numbers from “0” to “65534” are hits. Although not shown, if the random number is other than the normal symbol determining random number shown above, it is determined as “lost”.

  Accordingly, since the random number range of the normal symbol determination random number value is “0” to “65535”, the probability of being determined as “winning” in the non-time saving gaming state is “1/65536”, and the time saving gaming state The probability of being determined as “winning” at the time of is “65535/65536”.

  FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a symbol determination table for determining a special symbol stop symbol.

  FIG. 6A is a symbol determination table that is referred to in order to determine a stop symbol at the time of a big hit, and FIG. 6B is a symbol that is referred to in order to determine a stop symbol at the time of a big hit. FIG. 6C is a symbol determination table that is referred to in order to determine a symbol to be stopped when a loss occurs.

  Specifically, according to the symbol determination table shown in FIG. 6, a special ball display device type (a type of a start opening in which a game ball has won) and a game ball at the first start port 14 or the second start port 15. The special symbol type (stop symbol data) is determined based on the jackpot symbol random number value or the small bonus symbol random number value acquired when the ball is entered.

  For example, the first special symbol display device 20 refers to the symbol determination table shown in FIG. 6A in the case of “big hit”, and if the acquired big hit symbol random number value is “55”, the stopped symbol data As “03” (special symbol 3 (first probability variation 3)).

  Further, in the first special symbol display device 20, when “small hit”, the symbol determination table shown in FIG. 6B is referred to, and if the acquired random number value for small hit symbol is “50”, it is stopped. The symbol data is determined as “08” (special symbol B (small hit B)).

  In the case of “losing”, the symbol determination table shown in FIG. 6C is referred to, and “00” (special symbol 0 (losing)) is determined as stop symbol data. That is, in the case of “losing”, any random number value is determined as stop symbol data of “00”.

  Then, at the time of starting the change of the special symbol, an effect designating command is generated as special symbol information based on the determined special symbol type (stop symbol data). Here, the production symbol designation command is composed of data of “2 bytes” as a unit command, and includes “1 byte” of MODE data for identifying the control command and the contents of the control command to be executed. It consists of “1 byte” worth of DATA data. The same applies to a variation pattern designation command described later.

  As will be described later, the game state after the jackpot game (see FIG. 7) and the type of jackpot game (see FIG. 8) are determined by the type of special symbol (stop symbol data). It can be said that the type determines the gaming state after the jackpot game ends and the type of jackpot game.

  FIG. 7 is a jackpot game end setting data table for determining the gaming state after the jackpot game ends.

  Based on the special symbol type (stop symbol data) and the state stored in the game state buffer, the high probability game flag setting, the number of high probability games (X ), A short-time game flag, and a short-time count (J) are set.

  Here, the “gaming state buffer” is information indicating the gaming state at the time of winning the big hit. The gaming state includes a combination of a short-time gaming state (or a non-short-time gaming state) and a high probability gaming state (or low probability gaming state).

  Specifically, if the gaming state buffer is “00H”, it indicates the gaming state information of the low-probability gaming state and the non-short-time gaming state in which both the short-time gaming flag and the high-probability gaming flag are not set. If the gaming state buffer is “01H”, the short-time gaming flag is not set, but the high-probability gaming flag indicates gaming state information of the high-probability gaming state and the non-short-time gaming state that are set. If the gaming state buffer is “02H”, it indicates gaming state information of a low-probability gaming state and a short-time gaming state in which the short-time gaming flag is set but the high-probability gaming flag is not set. If the game state buffer is “03H”, it indicates the game state information of the high-probability gaming state and the short-time gaming state in which both the short-time gaming flag and the high-probability gaming flag are set.

  In the jackpot game end setting data table shown in FIG. 7, even if the type of the same special symbol, the setting of the short-time game flag and the number of short-time games (J) are made different based on the information stored in the game state buffer. Is possible.

  Specifically, when the type of the special symbol is special symbol 3 (corresponding to stop symbol data 03, first probability variation jackpot “3”), regarding the high probability game flag and the high probability game number (X), Regardless of the information stored in the state buffer, the high probability game flag is set after the jackpot game ends, and the high probability game count (X) is set to “10000 times”.

  On the other hand, regarding the short-time game flag and the short-time number of times (J), if information (“00H” or “01H”) indicating a game state in which the short-time game flag is not set is stored in the game state buffer, Does not set the short-time game flag, and sets the short-time number (J) to “0”. On the other hand, if information (“02H” or “03H”) indicating the gaming state in which the short-time gaming flag is set is stored in the gaming state buffer, the short-time gaming flag is set after the big hit game is finished. , The number of time reduction (J) is set to “10000 times”.

  Thereby, the number of time reductions (J) can be changed according to the gaming state at the time of winning the jackpot, and the player can be interested in the gaming state at the time of winning the jackpot.

  FIG. 8 is a special electric accessory actuating mode determination table for determining the special winning opening opening mode table.

  With reference to the special electric accessory operating mode determination table shown in FIG. 8, the special winning opening opening mode table is determined based on the type of special symbol (stop symbol data).

  As will be described later, since the jackpot game is executed on the basis of the big prize opening manner table, it can be said that the big prize opening manner table indicates the type of the big prize game.

  Further, the special electric accessory actuating mode determination table shown in FIG. 8 is characterized in that, in the second special symbol display device 21 that is actuated when a game ball enters the second starting port 15, the “short hit table” is used. "Is not determined.

  This is because, in the non-short-time gaming state, almost no gaming ball enters the second starting port 15, but “short hit” is determined when a gaming ball enters the second starting port 15. This is because even if the short-time gaming state is provided, the player's willingness to play may be reduced.

  In the present embodiment, the second special symbol display device 21 is configured not to determine the “short hit table”. Of course, the second special symbol display device 21 also determines the “short hit table”. You may comprise. However, in the case of determining the “short hit table” in the second special symbol display device 21, compared with the first special symbol display device 20 that is activated when a game ball enters the first start port 14, By configuring the “short hit table” to be difficult to determine for the reasons described above, it is possible to prevent a decrease in game motivation.

  FIG. 9 is a view showing the configuration of the big prize opening opening mode table determined in FIG. 8, and the first big winning opening opening / closing door 16b or the movable piece for the second big winning opening is determined by this big winning opening opening mode table. The open / close condition of 17b is determined.

  FIG. 9A shows a big winning opening opening determination table group for jackpots that is referred to in the jackpot game, and is composed of a long winning table, a short winning table, and an advanced winning table.

  FIG. 9B shows a big winning opening releasing mode determination table group for small hits determined at the small hit game.

  Then, a long hit game is executed based on the long hit table, a short hit game is executed based on the short hit table, a development game as described later is executed based on the developed hit table, The small hit game is executed based on the winning opening opening mode determination table.

  In the big winning opening opening determination table for jackpot shown in FIG. 9 (a), the type of the big winning opening to be opened (the first big winning opening 16 or the second big winning opening 17) and the one big win game The maximum number of round games (R), the specified number indicating the maximum number of winnings in the big winning opening in one round, the start interval time from the start of the big hit game to the execution of the first round game, and in each round game Maximum number of times of opening of the grand prize opening (K), opening time of the big winning opening for one opening of each round game, and closing time of the big winning opening for one opening of each round game And the closing interval time of the big prize opening from the end of one round game to the execution of the next round game, and the end interval time from the end of the last round game to the end of the jackpot game Are 憶.

  On the other hand, in the large winning opening opening determination table for small hits shown in FIG. 9B, the type of the large winning opening to be opened (the first large winning opening 16 or the second large winning opening 17), The maximum number of times of opening (K) in a single small hit game, a specified number indicating the maximum number of winning points in a single winning game, and the first large winning opening is opened from the start of the small hit game Until the end of the small hit game from the end of the closing time of the last prize winning opening and the closing time of the last prize winning opening The interval time is stored.

  Here, according to the long winning table of the big winning prize opening opening determination table for jackpot shown in FIG. 9A, the first big winning opening opening / closing door 16b is operated, and the first winning prize opening / closing door 16b is located on the right side of the game area 6. The grand prize winning opening 16 can be opened up to a maximum of “approximately 29 seconds” per round.

  However, when the specified number (9) of game balls have won the first grand prize opening 16 before the opening time has passed “approximately 29 seconds”, the operation of the first grand prize opening opening / closing door 16b is terminated. The game for one round will end.

  Here, the short win table of the big winning prize opening manner determination table for jackpots shown in FIG. 9A and the big winning opening release mode determination table for small hits shown in FIG. 9B are the maximum number of round games ( R), the maximum number of times of opening (K), the closing interval time, and the closing time of the big winning opening at each opening number, there are data differences, but the same second big winning opening 17 performs the same opening / closing operation (second large) The winning opening 17 repeats “opening for 0.052 seconds” and closing for “2.0 seconds” for “15 times”), and the player is “short win game” or “small hit game” from the appearance. Cannot be determined.

  Thereby, it is possible to cause the player to guess whether the game is “short hit game” or “small hit game”.

  In this embodiment, the opening time in the “short hit game” and the opening time in the “small hit game” are set to the same opening time (“0.052 seconds”), and the closing time in the “short hit game” An example is shown in which the closing time in the “small hit game” is set to the same closing time (“2 seconds”).

  Of course, the present invention is not limited to this, and a configuration in which a time difference that the player cannot discriminate between “short win game” and “small hit game” may be provided.

  In addition, the per-development table of the big winning prize opening mode determination table for jackpot shown in FIG. 9A is also the above-described short winning game and small winning game until the third big winning opening is opened (K = 3). The second grand prize opening 17 performs the same opening / closing operation (the second big prize opening 17 repeats an opening time of “0.052 seconds” and a closing time of “2.0 seconds”), and the player looks Therefore, it is not possible to determine whether the game is “game per development, game per short, or game per short”.

  However, from the opening of the fourth grand prize opening (maximum number of round games (R) = "2", maximum number of big winning openings (K) = "1"), the opening of the big prize opening for games per development The time becomes longer ("approximately 29 seconds"), and the game per development can be discriminated from the short win game and the small hit game.

  For this reason, a game that first causes the player to recognize that the game is a short hit game or a small hit game, and then causes the player to recognize that the game ball is a jackpot game that can be acquired (this game is referred to as “game per development”). It can be performed.

  In this embodiment, until the opening of the big prize opening where the game per development becomes indistinguishable from the short hit game and the small hit game, the opening time of the big prize opening of the game per development is reduced to the short win game and the small hit game. The opening time is set to the same opening time ("0.052 seconds") and the closing time of the big winning opening for games per development is the closing time of the big winning opening for short win games and small hit games And the same closing time ("2 seconds"). However, even if the game is not set at the same time, a difference in time in which the player cannot determine whether the game per development, the game per short hit, or the game per small hit may be provided.

  In addition, the short opening time (“0.052 seconds”) of “short win game” and “small hit game” and the short opening time (“0.052 seconds”) of the first half of “game per development” are as described above. Thus, even if the movable piece 17b for the second big prize opening is actuated, it is necessary to win the second big prize opening 17 because it is shorter than the time for which one game ball is fired ("approximately 0.6 seconds"). Is difficult.

  For this reason, it can be said that the opening mode of “short hit game” and “small hit game” and the opening mode of the first half of “game per development” are “unfavorable opening mode” for the player.

  On the other hand, the long release time of “game per long” (“approximately 29 seconds”) and the long release time of the latter half of “game per development” (“approximately 29 seconds”) are the time (one game ball is fired) ( It is longer than “approximately 0.6 seconds”), and can be said to be an “advantageous release mode” for the player.

  Further, according to the jackpot big winning opening opening determination table shown in FIG. 9A, the maximum number of round games (R) at the time of all jackpots regardless of the long win game, the short win game, or the development game. ) Is set to the same number of times. For this reason, there is no need to provide a display device for identifying the number of round games as in the prior art.

  FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a variation pattern determination table for determining a variation pattern of special symbols as will be described later.

  Specifically, according to the special symbol variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 10, the special symbol display device that operates (the type of the starting opening that the game ball won), the jackpot determination result, the special symbol to stop, and the short-time gaming state Based on the presence / absence, the number of special symbol hold (U1 or U2), the reach determination random number value, and the special symbol variation random value, the variation pattern of the special symbol is determined.

  Then, based on the determined special symbol variation pattern, the special symbol variation time is determined, and the special symbol variation pattern designation command for transmitting the special symbol information to the effect control board 120 is specified. An example of this variation pattern designation command is shown in FIG.

  Therefore, it can be said that the “special symbol variation pattern” defines at least the jackpot determination result and the special symbol variation time. In addition, since a reach is always performed when a big hit or a small hit, the reach determination random number value is not referred to when a big hit or a small win. The reach determination random number value and the special figure variation random value are set to 100 random numbers (0 to 99).

  Here, the special symbol variation pattern designation command is composed of “1 byte” of MODE data for identifying the command classification and “1 byte” of DATA data indicating the content (function) of the command. Yes.

  When the MODE data is “E6H”, a special symbol variation pattern designation command (of the first special symbol display device 20) corresponding to the winning of the game ball at the first start port 14 is shown. "E7H" indicates a special symbol variation pattern designation command corresponding to the winning of a game ball in the second start port 15 (second special symbol display device 21).

  Further, the special symbol variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 10 is set so that the variation time of the special symbol is shortened when the jackpot determination result is lost and the game is in the short-time gaming state. For example, when the jackpot determination result is a loss and the number of held balls is “2”, if the game is in the short-time game state, the variation time is “3000 ms” with a probability of “95%” based on the reach determination random value. Pattern “9” (shortening variation) is determined. On the other hand, when in the non-time saving gaming state, a variation pattern in which the variation time exceeds “3000 ms” is determined.

  In this manner, the variation time is set to be short when the time-saving gaming state is entered.

  The table as described above is stored in the main ROM 110b of the main control board 110.

  Subsequently, the main RAM 110c of the main control board 110 functions as a data work area during the arithmetic processing of the main CPU 110a and has a plurality of storage areas.

  As an example of the storage area at this time, for example, in the main RAM 110c, the normal symbol hold number (G) storage area, the normal symbol hold storage area, the normal symbol data storage area, the first special symbol hold number (U1) storage area, Second special symbol holding number (U2) storage area, first special symbol random value storage area, second special symbol random value storage area, round game number (R) storage area, number of times released (K) storage area, first large Number of balls (C) storage area, game state storage area (high probability game flag storage area and time-short game flag storage area), high probability game number (X) counter of the winning opening 16 and the second grand prize opening 17 Various timer counters are provided, such as a short time (J) counter, a game state buffer, a stop symbol data storage area, a transmission data storage area for effects, a special symbol time counter, and a special game timer counter. That. Note that the above-described storage area is merely an example, and many other storage areas are provided.

  The game information output terminal board 30 is a board for outputting an external information signal generated in the main control board 110 to a hall computer or the like of the game shop. The game information output terminal board 30 is connected to the main control board 110 by wiring, and is provided with a connector for connecting external information to a hall computer or the like of a game store.

  The power supply board 170 is provided with a backup power supply composed of a capacitor, supplies a power supply voltage to the gaming machine 1 and monitors a power supply voltage supplied to the gaming machine 1, and when the power supply voltage becomes a predetermined value or less, An interruption detection signal is output to the main control board 110. More specifically, when the power interruption detection signal becomes high level, the main CPU 110a enters an operable state, and when the power interruption detection signal becomes low level, the main CPU 110a enters an operation stop state. The backup power source is not limited to a capacitor, and for example, a battery may be used, and a capacitor and a battery may be used in combination.

  The effect control board 120 mainly controls each effect such as during a game or standby.

  The effect control board 120 includes a sub CPU 120a, a sub ROM 120b, and a sub RAM 120c, and is connected to the main control board 110 so as to be communicable in one direction from the main control board 110 to the effect control board 120. .

  The sub CPU 120a reads out a program stored in the sub ROM 120b based on a command transmitted from the main control board 110 or an input signal from the effect button detection switch 35a, the cross key detection switch 36a, and the timer, and performs arithmetic processing. And corresponding data (such as an effect pattern designation command described later) is transmitted to the lamp control board 140 and the image control board 150 based on the processing.

  The sub RAM 120c functions as a data work area during the arithmetic processing of the sub CPU 120a.

  For example, when the sub CPU 120a in the effect control board 120 receives the fluctuation pattern designation command indicating the fluctuation pattern of the special symbol from the main control board 110, the contents of the received fluctuation pattern designation command are analyzed and the first liquid crystal display device 31 is analyzed. The voice output device 32, the effect drive device 33, the effect illumination device 34, and data for causing the second liquid crystal display device 37 to execute a predetermined effect (such as an effect pattern designation command to be described later) are specified. Then, the specified data (effect pattern designation command or the like) is transmitted to the image control board 150 or the lamp control board 140.

  FIG. 11 shows an example of a table used when an effect pattern designation command is specified based on the variation pattern designation command at this time.

  The sub ROM 120b of the effect control board 120 stores a program for effect control, data necessary for determining various games, and a table.

  For example, an effect pattern determination table for determining an effect pattern based on a variation pattern designation command received from the main control board 110, an effect symbol determination table for determining a combination of effect symbols 38 to be stopped and displayed, etc. are stored in the sub ROM 120b. It is remembered.

  In the production pattern determination table at this time, after the jackpot lottery is in the reach state, and the reach performance in the reach state suggests that the jackpot lottery result is “losing”, the revival and the jackpot lottery result is “ In addition to storing the effect pattern (revival jackpot effect pattern) for effecting “big hit”, the effect pattern for effecting switching the game state (game mode) is stored. Note that the above-described table is merely an example of characteristic tables among the tables in the present embodiment, and a number of other tables and programs (not shown) are provided for the progress of the game. ing.

  The effect control board 120 creates an effect pattern designation command using an effect pattern determination table as shown in FIG. 11 and sends it to the lamp control board 140 and the image control board 150.

  The sub RAM 120c of the effect control board 120 functions as a data work area when the sub CPU 120a performs arithmetic processing, and has a plurality of storage areas.

  The sub RAM 120c is provided with a game state storage area, an effect mode storage area, an effect pattern storage area, an effect symbol storage area, and the like. Note that the above-described storage area is merely an example, and many other storage areas are provided.

  FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an effect pattern determination table for determining a variation mode of the effect symbol 38 displayed on the first liquid crystal display device 31 and the second liquid crystal display device 37.

  The variation pattern designation command and the effect random number 1 (0 to 99) shown in FIG. 11 are information received from the main control board 110, and the sub CPU 120a determines the variation effect pattern based on this information. is there.

  In FIG. 11, even when the sub CPU 120a receives the variation pattern designation command of the same special symbol, the variation control pattern can be determined based on the random number value 1 for the effect. The number of special pattern variation pattern designation commands stored in the main control board 110 is reduced compared to the variation effect pattern stored in 120.

  As a result, the storage capacity of the main control board 110 can be reduced, and a variety of effects can be achieved.

  The “variation effect pattern” refers to the effect contents (first liquid crystal display device 31, sound output device 32, effect drive device 33, effect illumination device 34, second liquid crystal display device 37) performed during the change of the special symbol. ) In a specific production mode. For example, in the first liquid crystal display device 31 and the second liquid crystal display device 37, the display mode of the background, the display mode of the character, and the variation mode of the production symbol 38 are determined by this variation effect pattern.

  In addition, the “reach” in the present embodiment refers to a state in which a part of the combination of the effect symbols 38 that informs the transition to the special game is stopped and the other effect symbols 38 are performing the variable display. . For example, when a combination of three effect symbols 38 of “777” is set as a combination of the effect symbols 38 informing that the game will shift to the jackpot game, the two effect symbols 38 are stopped and displayed at “7”. The state in which the remaining effect symbols 38 are variably displayed is called “reach”.

  In this way, when the sub CPU 120a determines the variation effect pattern based on the variation pattern designation command and the effect random number 1, the sub CPU 120a specifies the effect pattern designation command corresponding to the variation effect pattern and performs image control. The image is transmitted to the liquid crystal control CPU 150a which is an image drawing instruction unit of the substrate 150.

  Specifically, in the effect pattern designation command, “1 command” is composed of 2 bytes of data, and “1 byte” of MODE data for identifying the control command classification and the control command to be executed. It consists of “1 byte” of DATA data indicating the contents.

  Further, as the effect pattern designation command corresponding to the change effect pattern, “MODE” is set to “A1H” in the case of the change effect pattern based on the change pattern of the special symbol in the first special symbol display device 20, and the second special When the variation effect pattern is based on the variation pattern of the special symbol in the symbol display device 21, “MODE” is set as “B1H”, and “DATA” is set according to the identification number of the variation effect pattern.

  Although illustration is omitted, in addition to the effect pattern specifying command corresponding to the variable effect pattern, the MODE setting value is changed, and “effect pattern specifying command corresponding to the demo effect pattern (MODE = 01H)”, "Effect pattern designation command corresponding to hit start effect pattern (MODE = 0H)", "Effect pattern designation command corresponding to jackpot effect pattern (MODE = 03H)", "Effect pattern designation command corresponding to hit end effect pattern ( MODE = 04H) ”and the like, and the sub CPU 120a transmits the various effect pattern designation commands to the image control board 150.

  Subsequently, the payout control board 130 shown in FIG. 4 performs payout control of the game ball. The payout control board 130 includes a one-chip microcomputer including a payout CPU, a payout ROM, and a payout RAM (not shown), and is connected to the main control board 110 so as to be capable of bidirectional communication.

  The payout CPU reads out the program stored in the payout ROM based on the input signals from the payout ball count switch 132, the door opening switch 133, and the timer that detect whether or not the game ball has been paid out, and performs arithmetic processing. At the same time, corresponding data is transmitted to the main control board 110 based on the processing.

  Further, a payout motor 131 of a payout device for paying out a predetermined number of game balls from the game ball storage unit is connected to the output side of the payout control board 130. The payout CPU reads out a predetermined program from the payout ROM based on the payout number designation command transmitted from the main control board 110, performs arithmetic processing, and controls the payout motor 131 of the payout device to give a predetermined game ball. Pay out.

  At this time, the payout RAM functions as a data work area at the time of calculation processing of the payout CPU.

  The lamp control board 140 controls the lighting of the effect lighting device 34 provided on the game board 2 and controls the driving of the motor for changing the light irradiation direction. In addition, energization control is performed on a drive source such as a solenoid or a motor that operates the effect driving device 33. The lamp control board 140 is connected to the effect control board 120 and performs the above-described controls based on various commands transmitted from the effect control board 120.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 4, a firing control board 160 that inputs signals from the touch sensor 3a and the firing volume 3b and outputs signals to the firing solenoid 4a and the ball feed solenoid 4b is connected to the payout control board 130. ing. When the power is supplied from the power supply board 170 to the launch control board 160, the launch control of the game ball is performed.

  The image control board 150 is connected to the first liquid crystal display device 31, the second liquid crystal display device 37, and the audio output device 32, and based on various commands transmitted from the effect control board 120, the first liquid crystal display device. 31 and the second liquid crystal display device 37 and the sound output device 32 perform sound output control.

  At this time, the image control board 150 and the first liquid crystal display device 31 and the second liquid crystal display device 37 have a general purpose bridge function for converting the image data into a predetermined image format and outputting it when displaying the image data. A substrate 39 is provided.

  The general-purpose board 39 has a bridge function for converting to an image format corresponding to the performance of the first liquid crystal display device 31 and the second liquid crystal display device 37 for displaying image data. For example, SXGA (1280 dots × 1080) Dot) 19-inch main liquid crystal connected as the first liquid crystal display device 31, and XGA (1024 dots × 768 dots) 17-inch main liquid crystal connected as the first liquid crystal display device 31. Absorb differences.

  The image control board 150 performs image display control of effect images displayed on the first liquid crystal display device 31 and the second liquid crystal display device 37, a liquid crystal control CPU 150a that is an image drawing instruction means, a liquid crystal control RAM 150b, and a liquid crystal A control ROM 150c, a CGROM 151, a crystal oscillator 152, a VRAM 153, and an image control unit (VDP (Video Display Processor)) 2000 (hereinafter referred to as “VDP2000”) which is a drawing control means for performing rendering control of the effect image; And a sound control circuit 3000 that performs control to output sound information from the sound output device 32.

  The liquid crystal control CPU 150a is a display list that is image forming information including a group of commands related to drawing (drawing control commands), which is a basis for the image instruction of the effect image based on the “effect pattern designation command” received from the effect control board 120. And transfer this display list to VDP2000. The VDP 2000 performs drawing control on the image data stored in the CGROM 151 based on the display list transferred from the liquid crystal control CPU 150a, and the rendered images are displayed on the first liquid crystal display device 31 and the second liquid crystal display device. It outputs to the corresponding display apparatus of 37, and displays it.

  As will be described later, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a instructs the VDP 2000 to draw an effect image after transferring the generated display list to the VDP 2000.

  Further, upon receiving a V blank interrupt signal or a drawing end signal from the VDP 2000, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a appropriately performs an interrupt process.

  Further, the liquid crystal control CPU 150 a also instructs the sound control circuit 3000 to output predetermined sound data to the sound output device 32 based on the effect pattern designation command received from the effect control board 120.

  The liquid crystal control RAM 150b is built in the liquid crystal control CPU 150a, functions as a data work area when the liquid crystal control CPU 150a performs arithmetic processing, and temporarily stores data read from the liquid crystal control ROM 150c.

  The liquid crystal control ROM 150c is configured by a mask ROM or the like, and includes a control processing program for the liquid crystal control CPU 150a, a display list generation program for generating a display list, an animation pattern for displaying an animation of an effect pattern, which will be described later. Anime scene information etc. are stored.

  This animation pattern is referred to when displaying the animation of the production pattern, and stores the combination of animation scene information included in the production pattern, the display order of each animation scene information, and the like. In the animation scene information, a wait frame (display time), target data (sprite identification number, transfer source address, etc.), parameters (sprite display position, transfer destination address, etc.), drawing method, and effect image are displayed. Information such as information specifying a display device is stored.

  An example of this animation information will be described below with reference to FIG.

  Subsequently, the CGROM 151 is composed of a flash memory, an EEPROM, an EPROM, a mask ROM, and the like, and compresses image data (sprite, movie), etc. composed of a collection of pixel information in a predetermined range of pixels (for example, 32 pixels × 32 pixels). And remember. The pixel information is composed of color number information for designating a color number for each pixel and an α value indicating the transparency of the image.

  The CGROM 151 is read out in units of image data by the VDP 2000, and image processing is performed in units of image data of this frame.

  Further, the CGROM 151 stores palette data in which color number information for designating color numbers and display color information for actually displaying colors are associated with each other without being compressed.

  Note that the CGROM 151 may have a configuration in which only a part of the image data is compressed without being compressed. As a movie compression method, various known compression methods such as MPEG4 can be used.

  The crystal oscillator 152 outputs a pulse signal to the VDP 2000 and divides the pulse signal to synchronize with the system clock for the VDP 2000 to control and the first liquid crystal display device 31 and the second liquid crystal display device 37. A synchronization signal or the like is generated.

  The VRAM 153 is composed of an SRAM that can write or read image data at high speed. The VRAM 153 is configured by a memory map as shown in FIG. 12, for example.

  FIG. 12 is an example of a configuration diagram illustrating a configuration of a frame buffer used in the image control board 150 of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  FIG. 12A shows a case in which image data is displayed using one of the first liquid crystal display device 31 and the second liquid crystal display device 37, and in particular, only the first liquid crystal display device 31 has an image control board. When the image data received from 150 is displayed, that is, the first liquid crystal display device 31 and the second liquid crystal display device 37 are not connected as shown in FIG. 4 is a memory map in a configuration in the case where the liquid crystal display device 37 is not provided.

  The memory map shown in FIG. 12A includes an image data development area 153b consisting of arbitrary areas, a display list storage area 153a, a main liquid crystal first frame buffer area 153c, a main liquid crystal second frame buffer area 153d, and other areas. It is configured.

  The image data development area 153b is an area for storing image data expanded by an expansion circuit (described later) included in the VDP 2000. The display list storage area 153a temporarily stores the display list output from the liquid crystal control CPU 150a. This is the area to be stored in

  The main liquid crystal first frame buffer area 153c and the main liquid crystal second frame buffer area 153d are displayed on the first liquid crystal display device 31 based on the first display list stored in the display list storage area 153a. This is a work area for drawing an image.

  Incidentally, pallet data etc. are memorize | stored in other area | regions, for example.

  The two frame buffers, the first liquid crystal frame buffer area 153c and the main liquid crystal second frame buffer area 153d, are divided into a "drawing frame buffer" and a "display frame buffer" each time drawing is started. It switches alternately. That is, when one frame buffer functions as a drawing frame buffer, the other frame buffer functions as a display frame buffer.

  FIG. 12B shows a case where the image data received from the image control board 150 is displayed on both the first liquid crystal display device 31 and the second liquid crystal display device 37, that is, as shown in FIG. As shown, the memory map in the configuration in which the first liquid crystal display device 31 and the second liquid crystal display device 37 are connected.

  12B, similarly to the memory map shown in FIG. 12A, the image data development area 153b consisting of arbitrary areas, the display list (display list 1, display list 2) storage area 153a, the main liquid crystal display 1 frame buffer area 153c, main liquid crystal second frame buffer area 153d, and other areas, and further, sub liquid crystal first frame buffer area 153e and sub liquid crystal second frame buffer area 153f. Yes.

  The image data development area 153b, the display list storage area 153a, the main liquid crystal first frame buffer area 153c, the main liquid crystal second frame buffer area 153d, and the other areas are the same as described above. The frame buffer area 153e and the sub-liquid crystal second frame buffer 153f are work areas for drawing an effect image to be displayed on the second liquid crystal display device 37 based on the display list stored in the display list storage area 153a. .

  The two frame buffers, the first sub-liquid crystal frame buffer 153e and the sub-liquid crystal second frame buffer 153f, alternate between a “drawing frame buffer” and a “display frame buffer” every time drawing is started. It will be switched. That is, when one frame buffer functions as a drawing frame buffer, the other frame buffer functions as a display frame buffer.

  In addition to the above, the first liquid crystal display device 31 as shown in FIG. 12B may be configured without the second liquid crystal display device 37, that is, with only the first liquid crystal display device 31. It is also possible to use a memory map having a frame buffer of the second liquid crystal display device 37.

  In this case, the frame buffers of the sub-liquid crystal first frame buffer 153e and the sub-liquid crystal second frame buffer 153f are not used as work areas.

  Subsequently, the VDP 2000 is a so-called image processor. Based on an instruction from the liquid crystal control CPU 150a, for the first liquid crystal display device 31, a main liquid crystal first frame buffer area 153c and a main liquid crystal second frame buffer area 153d. For the second liquid crystal display device 37, the image of the effect image from the “display frame buffer” out of the frame buffers of either the sub-liquid crystal first frame buffer 153e or the sub-liquid crystal second frame buffer 153f. Read data.

  Then, based on the read image data, a video signal (LVDS signal, RGB signal, etc.) is generated and output to at least one of the first liquid crystal display device 31 and the second liquid crystal display device 37 for display. is there.

  The VDP 2000 includes a CPU I / F (not shown) (corresponding to the transmission / reception control unit 2001 in FIG. 16), a control register, a CG bus I / F, a clock generation circuit, an expansion circuit, a drawing circuit, a display circuit, and a memory controller. These are connected by a bus.

  The control register is a register for the VDP 2000 to control drawing and display, and drawing control and display control are performed by writing and reading data to and from the control register. The liquid crystal control CPU 150a can write and read data to and from the control register via the CPU I / F.

  This control register is a "system control register" that performs basic settings necessary for the operation of the VDP2000, a "data transfer register" that performs settings necessary for data transfer, and a setting for controlling drawing A “drawing register” (corresponding to the drawing register 2003 in FIG. 16), a “bus interface register” for making settings necessary for bus access, and a “decompression register” for making settings necessary for decompressing compressed images And six types of registers, “display registers” for setting display control.

  The CG bus I / F is an interface circuit for communication with the CGROM 151, and image data from the CGROM 151 is input to the VDP 2000 via the CG bus I / F.

  The CPU I / F is an interface circuit for communication with the liquid crystal control CPU 150a. Through this CPU I / F, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a outputs a display list and drawing instruction data described later to the VDP 2000, and accesses the control register. Various interrupt signals from the VDP 2000 are input to the liquid crystal control CPU 150a via the CPU I / F.

  The data transfer circuit performs data transfer between various devices. Specifically, data transfer between the liquid crystal control CPU 150a and the VRAM 153, data transfer between the CGROM 151 and the VRAM 153, and data transfer between various storage areas (including the frame buffer) of the VRAM 153 are performed.

  The clock generation circuit receives a pulse signal from the crystal oscillator 152 and generates a system clock that determines the operation processing speed of the VDP2000. Also, a synchronization signal generation clock is generated, and the synchronization signal is output to the first liquid crystal display device 31 via the display circuit.

  The decompression circuit is a circuit for decompressing the image data compressed in the CGROM 151, and stores the decompressed image data in the image data development area 153b.

  The drawing circuit is a circuit that performs sequence control based on a display list composed of drawing control commands.

  The display circuit includes a “display frame” among the first frame buffer area 153c for main liquid crystal, the second frame buffer area 153d for main liquid crystal, the first frame buffer 153e for sub liquid crystal, and the second frame buffer 153f for sub liquid crystal in the VRAM 153. From the image data (digital signal) stored in the frame buffer functioning as a “frame buffer”, a video signal indicating the color data of the image is generated as a video signal.

  The display circuit is a circuit that outputs the generated video signal to the first liquid crystal display device 31 and the second liquid crystal display device 37. Further, the display circuit also outputs a synchronizing signal (vertical synchronizing signal, horizontal synchronizing signal, etc.) for synchronizing with the first liquid crystal display device 31, and synchronizing signal (for synchronizing with the second liquid crystal display device 37). Vertical sync signals, horizontal sync signals, etc.) are also output.

  The memory controller performs control to switch between the “drawing frame buffer” and the “display frame buffer” when an instruction to switch the frame buffer is given from the liquid crystal control CPU 150a.

  The sound control circuit 3000 is provided with an audio ROM (not shown) in which a large number of audio data is stored. The sound control circuit 3000 is based on an audio output instruction command transmitted from the effect control board 120. While reading a predetermined program, the audio output control in the audio output device 32 is performed.

  FIG. 13 is a diagram showing animation information used on the image control board 150 of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  The animation pattern shown in FIG. 13 (a) includes the timing of displaying the effect image in addition to the object that is the configuration information constituting the effect image displayed on the first liquid crystal display device 31 and the second liquid crystal display device 37. This is information specifying a scene as a scene, and is image forming information for forming an effect image to be displayed at the time of effect.

  A group (hereinafter also referred to as “animation group”) is formed by bundling one or a plurality of the animation patterns. For example, in FIG. 13A, a background group for displaying a background animation, a notice A notice group A for displaying the animation of the character used for A, a notice group B for displaying the animation of the character used for notice B, a reach group for displaying the animation of the reach character, and an animation of the big hit effect are displayed. The effect symbol group for displaying the animation of the big hit effect group for the effect symbol 38 is shown.

  Of course, these are merely examples of groups, and many other groups are provided.

  This animation group is stored in the liquid crystal control ROM 150c.

  The liquid crystal control CPU 150a receives the effect pattern designation command from the sub CPU 120a in the effect control board 120, determines one or more animation groups to be executed based on the effect pattern designation command, and determines the animation pattern from each animation group. To decide.

  FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of an animation pattern determination table for determining an animation pattern constituting animation information based on the effect pattern designation command.

  The liquid crystal control CPU 150a determines one animation pattern from a plurality of animation patterns in each animation group as shown in FIG. 13A based on the effect pattern designation command received from the sub CPU 120a in the effect control board 120.

  For example, when the liquid crystal control CPU 150a receives an effect pattern designation command (A1H05H), the liquid crystal control CPU 150a determines an animation pattern of each animation group constituting animation information based on the effect pattern designation command (A1H05H).

  For example, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a, for the animation information of the effect image displayed on the first liquid crystal display device 31 based on the effect pattern designation command (A1H05H), “animation pattern 2” in the background group and “animation pattern” in the reach group. 33 ”and“ animation pattern 502 ”are determined in the production symbol group. For the animation information of the effect image displayed on the second liquid crystal display device 37, the “animation pattern 34” is determined in the reach group.

  Further, for example, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a, for the animation information of the effect image displayed on the first liquid crystal display device 31 based on the effect pattern designation command (A1H06H), “animation pattern 1” in the background group and in the notice A group “Anime pattern 11” and “anime pattern 21” are determined in the notice B group. For the animation information of the effect image displayed on the second liquid crystal display device 37, “animation pattern 501” is determined in the effect symbol group.

  13B to 13D and 13E, when the effect pattern designation command “A1H07H” is received among the effect pattern designation commands designated in the effect pattern determination table shown in FIG. An example of the determined animation pattern is shown in FIG.

  This effect pattern designation command (A1H07H) is a command for instructing to perform a normal variation effect by the variation effect pattern of “variation effect pattern 7”, and includes, for example, components used when performing the normal variation effect. It is an animation group, and specifies at least one of the animation groups separated for each role used for variable production.

  That is, the liquid crystal control ROM 150c stores an animation group correspondence table (not shown) in which an effect pattern designation command and an animation group used for the effect pattern of the effect pattern designation command are associated with each other. The animation group to be used for the production pattern designation command is determined using this animation group correspondence table.

  For example, when receiving the effect pattern designation command (A1H07H) corresponding to the variable effect pattern “7”, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a determines four groups of “background group, notice A group, notice B group, effect symbol group”. The animation pattern can be determined from each of these anime groups.

  As an example, “animation pattern 1” is determined from the background group, “anime pattern 11” is determined from the notice A group, “anime pattern 21” is determined from the notice B group, and “anime pattern 501” is determined from the directing design group. To decide.

  As shown in FIGS. 13 (b) to 13 (d) and 13 (e), the animation pattern includes a combination of animation scene information, a display order of each animation scene information, information specifying a display device to be displayed, and the like. Is remembered.

  For example, in the animation pattern of the effect symbol group shown in FIG. 13E, “sub liquid crystal (second liquid crystal display device 37)” is designated in the information designating the display device to be displayed. The scene 501 is executed, the animation scene 511 is executed second after the animation scene 501, and the effect image of the animation pattern is displayed on the sub liquid crystal (second liquid crystal display device 37).

  The liquid crystal control RAM 150 b has a “scene switching counter” that counts and updates every frame, and this “scene switching counter” counts 540 while the first animation scene 501 is being executed. As a result, the animation scene is switched to the second animation scene 511.

  When “60” (for 60 frames) is counted by the “scene switching counter” while the second animation scene 511 is being executed, the animation scene of the animation pattern of the effect symbol group ends.

  Note that “one frame” is the update timing of the display device (update timing of the vertical synchronization signal). For example, when the first liquid crystal display device 31 displays 60 frames per second, “1/60”. One frame is updated every second (about 16.6 ms).

  In the above example, one frame is updated every "1/60 seconds (about 16.6 ms)". However, the present invention is not limited to this, and "1/30 seconds (about 33. The configuration may be such that one frame is updated every 3 ms). In this case, the display device displays 30 frames per second.

  Each animation scene stores animation scene information. As animation information, a weight frame (display time) updated for each frame, target data (sprite identification number, transfer source address, etc.), parameters, and the like. (Sprite display position, transfer destination address, etc.), drawing method, information for designating a display device for displaying the effect image, and the like are stored.

  For example, in the animation scene shown in FIG. 13 (e), first, the first symbol, the second symbol, the third symbol, and the fourth symbol are given coordinates (the first symbol is coordinates (x30, y30), the second symbol. Is displayed at coordinates (x40, y40), the third symbol at coordinates (x50, y50), and the fourth symbol at coordinates (x60, y60) for 20 frames (approximately 0.33 seconds).

  Then, the first symbol, the second symbol, the third symbol, and the fourth symbol are different coordinates (the first symbol is coordinates (x31, y31), the second symbol is coordinates (x41, y41), the third symbol is coordinates ( x51, y51), the 4th symbol continues to be displayed for 15 frames (about 0.25 seconds) at coordinates (x61, y61)).

  Similarly, when the first symbol, the second symbol, the third symbol, and the fourth symbol continue to be displayed at the designated coordinates for the predetermined frame, the first symbol, the second symbol, the third symbol, The animation is such that the symbol and the fourth symbol are moved and displayed.

  In addition, in each of the “background group, notice A group, notice B group” animation patterns shown in FIGS. 13B to 13D, “main liquid crystal (first liquid crystal display) in the information designating the display device to be displayed. Device 31) "is designated, animation scene 1 is executed for" 600 "frames in the background group as shown in FIG. 13 (b), and animation-scene 0 is shown in FIG. 13 (c) in the notice A group. After executing “120” frame, the animation scene 11 is executed for “180” frame. In the notice B group, as shown in FIG. 13D, after the animation scene 0 is executed for “180” frame, the animation scene 21 is “ The 240 "frame is executed, and the effect image of the animation pattern is displayed on the main liquid crystal (first liquid crystal display device 31).

  As described above, as shown in FIG. 13B to FIG. 13D, “animation pattern 1 of the background group, animation pattern 11 from the notice A group, animation pattern 21 from the notice B group, and Are determined and the animations of these animation patterns are executed in parallel in time series, whereby an effect image based on the animation pattern is displayed on the main liquid crystal (first liquid crystal display device 31). As shown in FIG. 13 (e), the animation pattern “animation pattern 501 from the production pattern group” is determined, and the animation pattern is executed to execute the animation pattern on the sub liquid crystal (second liquid crystal display device 37). An effect image based on is displayed.

  As a result, images of BG1 (mountains) and BG2 (clouds) continue to be displayed in the display area of the first liquid crystal display device 31 from the start to the end of the animation pattern, and 2 seconds from the start of the animation pattern. An image that performs animation for displaying the notice of character A after (120 frames) is displayed for 3 seconds (180 frames), and 4 images that perform animation for displaying the notice of character B after 3 seconds (180 frames) from the start of the animation pattern. Seconds (240 frames) are displayed.

  These images are displayed in an overlapping manner in the display area of the first liquid crystal display device 31, and the first drawn image is overwritten by an image drawn later and cannot be visually recognized as an image. Become.

  Furthermore, in the display area of the second liquid crystal display device 37, an image for performing the animation of the normal variation display of the effect symbol is performed for 9 seconds (540 frames), and then temporarily stopped for 1 second (60 frames) (stop time). The image that performs the animation is displayed. In addition, although the example which displays only an effect design is shown on the 2nd liquid crystal display device 37, it does not limit to this, For example, the animation pattern 1 which consists of the background group displayed in the 1st liquid crystal display device 31, and an effect The animation pattern 501 may be displayed in parallel in time series from the symbol group.

  FIG. 15 is an example of a display list that is image forming information including a drawing-related command (drawing control command) group that is a basis of a rendering instruction for an effect image, and shows an example of a display list for each display device to be displayed. ing.

  FIG. 15A is an example of a first display list that is image forming information that is a basis of an instruction to draw an effect image to be displayed on the first liquid crystal display device 31, and FIG. 15B is a second liquid crystal display. It is an example of the 2nd display list which is the image shaping information used as the basis of the rendering instruction | indication of the production image displayed in the apparatus 37.

  When the liquid crystal control CPU 150a determines an animation pattern based on the animation information as shown in FIG. 13 described above, every predetermined frame (1) displayed on each of the first liquid crystal display device 31 and the second liquid crystal display device 37. A display list is generated for each frame). That is, a display list is generated for each unit frame according to the number of display devices.

  The liquid crystal control CPU 150a outputs each display list generated in this way to the VDP 2000.

  Here, the display list generation method is such that the liquid crystal control CPU 150a changes the contents of the animation scene at the current number of frames based on the “frame counter” indicating the current frame and the determined animation pattern (animation scene). The display list for the current number of frames is generated by generating the drawing control command according to the priority (drawing order) of each animation group.

  Below, the example of the display list (1st display list) which comprises the effect image displayed in the 1st liquid crystal display device 31 is shown.

  In FIG. 15A, as the priority order of the animation group shown in FIG. 13A, the background group is associated with the lowest “priority 9” data, and the notice A group has “priority order 8”. ”, The priority B data is associated with the notice B group, and the same“ priority 1 ”data is associated with the jackpot effect group in the same manner. It shall be.

  In FIG. 15 (b), as the priority order of the animation group shown in FIG. 13 (a), data of “priority order 2” having a low priority order is associated with the background group, It is assumed that “priority 1” data having a high priority is associated. In the example shown in FIG. 15B, in the above case, the animation pattern 1 consisting of the background group and the animation pattern 501 from the effect design group are displayed on the second liquid crystal display device 37 in chronological order in parallel. An example of a display list (second display list) is shown. Of course, when only the animation pattern 1 consisting of the background group is displayed, the display list designating only the animation scene 501 of the effect design group, that is, “background group” in the animation group column of FIG. The display list does not include the specified record.

  In FIG. 15 (a), as shown in FIG. 13 (b) to FIG. 13 (d), the background group anime pattern 1, the notice A group from the anime pattern 11, and the notice B group It is assumed that a plurality of anime patterns with the anime pattern 21 have been determined. In FIG. 15B, as shown in FIG. 13E above, the anime pattern 1 of the background group and the animation pattern from the effect design group are displayed. Assume that a plurality of animation patterns 501 are determined.

  Next, as the first display list corresponding to the effect image displayed on the first liquid crystal display device 31, the current frame counter (current number of frames) from the animation pattern 1 of the lowest priority animation group (background group). The drawing control commands are generated in accordance with the contents of the anime scenes in the sequence, and when the drawing control commands up to the highest priority anime group (big hit effect group) among the determined anime groups are generated, A display list as shown in FIG. 15A is completed by generating a drawing end command.

  Next, as the second display list corresponding to the effect image displayed on the second liquid crystal display device 37, the animation pattern 1 of the animation group (background group) with the lower priority and the current frame counter (current number of frames). Drawing control commands are generated sequentially according to the contents of the animation scene, and when a drawing control command with a higher priority animation group (direction design group) among the determined anime groups is generated, the drawing ends at the end. A display list as shown in FIG. 15B is completed by generating a command.

  Display lists as shown in FIGS. 15A and 15B are generated while the liquid crystal control CPU 150a refers to necessary data.

  That is, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a displays a display list (at least one of the first display list and the second display list) in which drawing control command groups are grouped based on the effect pattern designation command transmitted from the sub CPU 120a of the effect control board 120. Display list) is generated and transferred to VDP2000. Thereafter, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a provides the VDP 2000 with drawing instruction data for instructing to draw an effect image to be displayed on the display device (at least one of the first liquid crystal display device 31 and the second liquid crystal display device 37). Send to.

  Upon receiving the drawing instruction data from the liquid crystal control CPU 150a, the VDP 2000 performs drawing control on the image data stored in the CGROM 151 based on the drawing control command included in the display list, and the first frame buffer area 153c for main liquid crystal. The image data is drawn in the frame buffer functioning as the “drawing frame buffer” in the second frame buffer area 153d for the main liquid crystal.

  Then, the VDP 2000 outputs and displays the effect image subjected to the drawing control on a corresponding one of the first liquid crystal display device 31 and the second liquid crystal display device 37.

  Hereinafter, an example of the rendering control process of the effect image using the display list performed by the gaming machine 1 will be described.

  FIG. 16 is a functional block diagram showing a detailed configuration when performing rendering control of effect images based on the display list of the image control board 150 provided in the gaming machine 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  The liquid crystal control CPU 150a includes an image drawing instruction unit 150d that instructs the VDP 2000 to draw an effect image based on the display list.

  Based on the effect pattern designation command transmitted from the effect control board 120, the image drawing instruction unit 150d includes the first display list and the second display list that forms the effect image to be displayed on the second liquid crystal display device 37. A display list of at least one of the above is generated.

  Specifically, when receiving an effect pattern designation command from the effect control board 120, the image drawing instruction unit 150d reads a program for generating a display list (display list generation program) stored in the liquid crystal control ROM 150c and displays the liquid crystal. It executes on the control RAM 150b.

  Then, by executing the display list generation program, the image drawing instruction unit 150d displays a display list (at least one of the first display list and the second display list) based on a predetermined effect pattern designation command received from the effect control board 120. On the other hand).

  In this display list generation processing, the image drawing instruction unit 150d determines the priority order (drawing) of the animation group to which the animation scene belongs (background group, notice A group, notice B group, reach group, jackpot effect group, effect symbol group, etc.). The display list is generated from display information (sprite identification number, display position, etc.) for a predetermined frame of the animation scene at the updated address.

  The VDP 2000 includes a transmission / reception control unit 2001 including a CPU I / F, a VRAM 153, an image drawing control unit 2002 including a drawing circuit, and a drawing register 2003.

  The VRAM 153 includes a display list storage area 154 (first storage unit) corresponding to the display list storage area 153a of FIG. 12, and a frame buffer 155 that is a work area for rendering effect images.

  The display list storage area 154 stores a display list generated by the image drawing instruction unit 150d based on a predetermined effect pattern designation command.

  When an effect image is displayed only on the first liquid crystal display device 31, the frame buffer 155 corresponds to the main liquid crystal first frame buffer region 153c and the main liquid crystal second frame buffer region 153d in FIG. Further, when displaying an effect image on both the first liquid crystal display device and the second liquid crystal display device, the frame buffer 155 includes the first frame buffer area 153e for the sub liquid crystal and the second frame for the sub liquid crystal shown in FIG. This corresponds to the buffer area 153f, the main liquid crystal first frame buffer area 153c, and the main liquid crystal second frame buffer area 153d.

  The two frame buffer areas of the main liquid crystal first frame buffer area 153c and the main liquid crystal second frame buffer area 153d are such that when one frame buffer functions as a “drawing frame buffer”, the other frame buffer Functions as a “display frame buffer”.

  Similarly, when one frame buffer functions as a “drawing frame buffer”, the two frame buffer areas of the first sub-liquid crystal frame buffer area 153e and the second sub-liquid crystal frame buffer area 153f The frame buffer functions as a “display frame buffer”.

  The drawing register 2003 includes a display list development work area (second storage unit) 2004 that is a work area for rendering control of effect images using the display list.

  Here, a case where an effect image is displayed on the first liquid crystal display device 31 using the first display list will be described. In this case, in the display list development work area 2004, the first display list generated based on the effect pattern designation command and stored in the display list storage area 154 is stored.

  The image drawing control unit 2002 performs image processing on the image data for each frame read from the CGROM 151 based on the drawing control command included in the first display list stored in the display list development work area 2004. Then, the image drawing control unit 2002 draws the image processed image data in the “drawing frame buffer” of the frame buffer 155.

  In this drawing process, the image drawing control unit 2002 sets necessary data in the display list development work area 2004 as appropriate. Then, the image drawing control unit 2002 draws the image data expanded in the image data development area 153 b (see FIG. 12A), which is an arbitrary area of the VRAM 153, in the “drawing frame buffer” of the frame buffer 155.

  The image drawing control unit 2002 generates an RGB signal (analog signal) indicating image color data as a video signal from the image data (digital signal) stored in the “display frame buffer” of the frame buffer 155, Output to the first liquid crystal display device 31. Further, the image drawing control unit 2002 also outputs a synchronization signal (vertical synchronization signal, horizontal synchronization signal, etc.) for synchronizing with the first liquid crystal display device 31 to the first liquid crystal display device 31.

  The image drawing instruction unit 150d of the liquid crystal control CPU 150a generates a display list, which is image forming information that is a basis for an effect image drawing instruction, based on the effect pattern specifying command transmitted from the effect control board 120. The image drawing instruction unit 150d transfers (transmits) the generated display list to the display list storage area 154 of the VRAM 153 via the transmission / reception control unit 2001 of the VDP 2000.

  As described above, the image drawing instruction unit 150d transfers the display list based on the effect pattern designation command to the display list storage area 154, and then transmits the following “drawing instruction data” at the timing of starting the effect image drawing control process. The image data is transmitted to the image drawing control unit 2002 via the transmission / reception control unit 2001 of the VDP 2000.

  The drawing instruction data is data for giving an instruction to draw an effect image based on a display list generated based on the effect pattern designation command. Specifically, the drawing instruction data is sent to the VDP 2000 by requesting the display list to be transferred from the display list storage area 154 of the VRAM 153 to the display list development work area 2004 of the drawing register 2003. This is data for instructing drawing.

  The above-mentioned memory controller included in the VDP 2000 can also be used as a “DMA controller (not shown)” that directly transfers data (DMA (Direct Memory Access)) directly between memories without using a processor (image drawing control unit 2002). Function.

  In the VDP 2000, the DMA controller performs control to directly transfer the display list from the display list storage area 154 of the VRAM 153 to the display list development work area 2004 of the drawing register 2003.

  When the image drawing control unit 2002 of the VDP 2000 receives the drawing instruction data from the image drawing instruction unit 150d of the liquid crystal control CPU 150a, the source address, the destination address, and the input / output operation to be performed (write or read) to the DMA controller. Set parameters such as the source of transfer data and the number of transfer bytes.

  The DMA controller arbitrates the bus in VDP2000. The DMA controller determines whether the display list can be read from the display list storage area 154 with respect to the display list storage area 154 of the VRAM 153. The DMA controller executes the reading of the display list from the display list storage area 154 by determining that the display list can be read from the display list storage area 154.

  Then, the DMA controller transfers the read display list to a predetermined area in the display list development work area 2004 of the drawing register 2003 in accordance with the set transmission destination address. In this way, the VDP 2000 transfers (directly transfers) the display list from the display list storage area 154 of the VRAM 153 to the display list development work area 2004 of the drawing register 2003 without going through the processor (image drawing control unit 2002).

  When the direct transfer of the display list is completed, the DMA controller notifies the image drawing control unit 2002 that the direct transfer is completed. Upon receiving the notification, the image drawing control unit 2002 checks the state of the DMA controller, the display list storage area 154 of the VRAM 153, and the like, and determines whether or not the operation necessary for direct transfer has been normally completed. When the DMA controller determines that the operation has been normally completed, the DMA controller ends the series of display list direct transfer processing.

  Under the control of the DMA controller as described above, the display list stored in the display list storage area 154 and used for rendering control of the effect image is directly transferred to the display list development work area 2004.

  As described above, when the gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment performs the drawing control processing of the image data of the effect image, the display list is directly transferred from the VRAM 153 to the drawing register 2003 without using the processor, the cache memory, or the like. Forward. Thereby, since the gaming machine 1 can realize transfer of the display list at a high speed and with a small processing load, it is possible to perform rendering control of the effect image with high accuracy.

  Based on the display list directly transferred from the display list storage area 154 of the VRAM 153 and stored in the display list development work area 2004 of the drawing register 2003, the image drawing control unit 2002 stores the image data of the effect image in the frame buffer 155 of the VRAM 153. Execute drawing control to draw.

  Then, the image drawing control unit 2002 reads out the image data (digital signal) of the effect image drawn in the frame buffer 155 and generates an RGB signal (analog signal) indicating the color data of the image as a video signal. To the corresponding liquid crystal display device.

  That is, the image drawing control unit 2002 outputs the video signal of the effect image drawn based on the first display list to the first liquid crystal display device 31, and the image signal of the effect image drawn based on the second display list. Output to the first liquid crystal display device 31.

  Further, the image drawing control unit 2002 also outputs a synchronization signal (vertical synchronization signal, horizontal synchronization signal, etc.) for synchronizing with the first liquid crystal display device 31 to the first liquid crystal display device 31. Similarly, the image drawing control unit 2002 also outputs a synchronization signal (vertical synchronization signal, horizontal synchronization signal, etc.) for synchronizing with the second liquid crystal display device 37 to the second liquid crystal display device 37.

  In the present embodiment, as the video signal, an RGB signal obtained by converting a digital signal into an analog signal is output to the first liquid crystal display device 31 and the second liquid crystal display device. May be output.

  The first liquid crystal display device 31 displays an effect image that has been subjected to drawing control by the image drawing control unit 2002 based on the first display list.

  In addition, the second liquid crystal display device 37 displays an effect image that has been subjected to drawing control by the image drawing control unit 2002 based on the second display list.

  As described above, the gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment generates the display list generated by the image drawing instruction unit 150d of the liquid crystal control CPU 150a, and transfers it to the display list storage area 154 of the VRAM 153 of the VDP 2000.

  Thereafter, the gaming machine 1 gives an instruction to draw the effect image from the image drawing instruction unit 150d to the image drawing control unit 2002 of the VDP 2000 at the timing of performing the drawing control of the image data of the effect image based on the display timing of the effect image. Do.

  Then, the VDP 2000 directly transfers the display list stored in the display list storage area 154 of the VRAM 153 to the display list expansion work area 2004 of the drawing register 2003. In other words, in the VDP 2000, the display list can be transferred from the VRAM 153 to the drawing register 2003 at a high speed at the timing of performing drawing control of the image data of the effect image.

  Furthermore, since the display list is transferred from the VRAM 153 to the drawing register 2003 without using the image drawing control unit 2002 as a processor and the cache memory, the processing load on the processor (image drawing control unit 2002) can be reduced. As a result, in the VDP 2000, the rendering control of the effect image can be performed with high accuracy.

  FIG. 17 is an example of a flowchart showing a detailed flow of the main process performed on the main control board 110 of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  When power is supplied from the power supply board 170, a system reset occurs in the main CPU 110a, and the main CPU 110a performs the following main processing.

  First, the main CPU 110a performs initialization processing (S1701). In this initialization process, the main CPU 110a reads a startup program from the main ROM 110b in response to power-on, and performs a process of initializing flags and the like stored in the main RAM 110c.

  Subsequently, the main CPU 110a performs an effect random number update process for updating the reach determination random number value and the special figure variation random value for determining the variation mode (variation time) of the special symbol (S1702).

  Then, the main CPU 110a updates the initial symbol value for special symbol determination, the initial random number value for jackpot symbol, the initial value random number value for small bonus symbol, and the initial random number value for normal symbol determination (S1703).

  When such a process is performed, it is determined whether or not the power-off process for shutting off the power supply is performed (S1704), and until the power-off process is performed (NO in S1704), the interrupt process is performed to produce the effect. The random number value update process (S1702) and subsequent steps are repeated. Further, when the power interruption process is performed (YES in S1704), the process is terminated.

  FIG. 18 is an example of a flowchart showing a detailed flow of a timer interrupt process performed on the main control board 110 of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  A clock pulse is generated every predetermined period (4 milliseconds) by the reset clock pulse generation circuit provided on the main control board 110, thereby executing a timer interrupt process described below.

  First, the main CPU 110a saves information stored in the register of the main CPU 110a in the stack area (S1801).

  The main CPU 110a has various timers such as a special symbol time counter update process, a special game timer counter update process such as a special electric accessory release time, a normal symbol time counter update process, and a general electric release time counter update process. A time control process for updating the counter is performed. Specifically, a process of subtracting 1 from the special symbol time counter, the special game timer counter, the normal symbol time counter, and the general electricity open time counter is performed (S1802).

  The main CPU 110a performs random number update processing for the special symbol determination random number value, the big hit symbol random number value, the small bonus symbol random number value, and the normal symbol determination random number value (S1803).

  Specifically, each random number value and random number counter are incremented (unit number addition) and updated. When the added random number counter exceeds the maximum value of the random number range (when the random number counter makes one round), the random number counter is returned to “0 (zero)” and the initial random number “0 (zero) at that time” ”To update each random value.

  Subsequently, the main CPU 110a performs an initial random value update process for updating the initial random number value for special symbol determination, the initial random number value for jackpot symbol, the initial random number value for small hit symbol, and the initial random number value for normal symbol determination (S1804). ).

  The main CPU 110a performs input control processing (S1805).

  In this input control process, the main CPU 110a includes the general winning opening detecting switch 12a, the first large winning opening detecting switch 16a, the second large winning opening detecting switch 17a, the first starting opening detecting switch 14a, and the second starting opening detecting switch 15a. Then, it is determined whether or not there is an input to each switch of the gate detection switch 13a.

  Specifically, various detection signals from the general winning opening detecting switch 12a, the first big winning opening detecting switch 16a, the second large winning opening detecting switch 17a, the first starting opening detecting switch 14a, and the second starting opening detecting switch 15a. Is inputted, predetermined data is added to the prize ball counter used for the prize ball provided for each prize opening and updated.

  Furthermore, when a detection signal is input from the first start port detection switch 14a, if the data set in the first special symbol hold number (U1) storage area is less than 4, the first special symbol hold number ( U1) Add 1 to the storage area to obtain special symbol determination random number value, jackpot symbol random number value, small hit symbol random number value, reach determination random number value, and special symbol variation random value The random number value is stored in a predetermined storage unit (0th storage unit to 4th storage unit) in the first special symbol random value storage area.

  Similarly, when a detection signal is input from the second start port detection switch 15a, if the data set in the second special symbol hold number (U2) storage area is less than 4, the second special symbol hold number (U2) 1 is added to the storage area, and a random number value for special symbol determination, a random number value for big hit symbol, a random number value for small hit symbol, a random number value for reach determination, and a random number value for special symbol variation are acquired. Various random numbers are stored in a predetermined storage unit (0th storage unit to 4th storage unit) in the second special symbol random number value storage area.

  When a detection signal is input from the gate detection switch 13a, if the data set in the normal symbol hold number (G) storage area is less than 4, the normal symbol hold number (G) storage area is set to 1. It adds, acquires the random number value for normal symbol determination, and memorize | stores the acquired random number value for normal symbol determination in the predetermined memory | storage part (0th memory | storage part-4th memory | storage part) in a normal symbol holding | maintenance storage area.

  Further, when a detection signal is input from the first grand prize opening detection switch 16a or the second big prize opening detection switch 17a, the number of game balls won in the first big prize opening 16 or the second big prize opening 17 is counted. 1 is added to the number of entries (C) storage area for the big winning opening to update.

  Next, the main CPU 110a performs special figure special electric power control processing for controlling the jackpot lottery, the special electric accessory, and the gaming state (S1806). Subsequently, the main CPU 110a performs a general-purpose normal power control process for controlling the normal symbol lottery and the normal electric accessory (S1807).

  Specifically, it is first determined whether or not 1 or more data is set in the normal symbol hold count (G) storage area, and 1 or more data must be set in the normal symbol hold count (G) storage area. If this is the case, the current ordinary power transmission control process is terminated.

  If 1 or more data is set in the normal symbol holding number (G) storage area, after subtracting 1 from the value stored in the normal symbol holding number (G) storage area, the data is in the normal symbol holding storage area. The normal symbol determination random numbers stored in the first storage unit to the fourth storage unit are shifted to the previous storage unit. At this time, the normal symbol determination random value already written in the 0th storage unit is overwritten and erased.

  Then, a process of determining whether or not the normal symbol determination random number value stored in the 0th storage unit of the normal symbol hold storage area is a random value corresponding to “win” is performed. Thereafter, the normal symbol display device 22 displays the fluctuation of the normal symbol. When the fluctuation time of the normal symbol elapses, the normal symbol corresponding to the result of the normal symbol lottery is stopped and displayed. If the random number for normal symbol determination referred to is “winning”, the start opening / closing solenoid 15c is driven to control the second start opening 15 to the second mode for a predetermined opening time.

  Here, in the non-short-time gaming state, the variation time of the normal symbol is set to 29 seconds, and if it is “winning”, the second start port 15 is controlled to the second mode for 0.2 seconds. On the other hand, in the short-time gaming state, the normal symbol variation time is set to 0.2 seconds, and if it is “winning”, the second start port 15 is controlled to the second mode for 3.5 seconds. .

  Then, the main CPU 110a performs a payout control process (S1808).

  In this payout control process, the main CPU 110a refers to each prize ball counter, generates payout number designation commands corresponding to various winning ports, and transmits the generated payout number designation commands to the payout control board 130. To do.

  The main CPU 110a includes external information data, start opening / closing solenoid data, first big prize opening / closing solenoid data, second big prize opening / closing solenoid data, special symbol display device data, normal symbol display device data, and memory number designation command data. Creation processing is performed (S1809).

  The main CPU 110a performs output control processing. In this process, a port output process is performed for outputting signals of the external information data, start opening / closing solenoid data, first big prize opening / closing solenoid data, and second big prize opening / closing solenoid data created in S600 (S1810).

  The special symbol display device data and the normal symbol display device data created in S600 are used to turn on the LEDs of the first special symbol display device 20, the second special symbol display device 21 and the normal symbol display device 22. Display device output processing is performed.

  Further, command transmission processing for transmitting the command set in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c to the effect control board 120 is also performed.

  The main CPU 110a restores the information saved in S1601 to the register of the main CPU 110a (S1811).

  FIG. 19 is an example of a flowchart showing a detailed flow of the special figure special electric power control process performed on the main control board 110 of the gaming machine in the embodiment of the present invention.

  First, the special figure special processing data value is loaded (S1901), and the branch address is referenced from the loaded special figure special processing data (S1902).

  At this time, if the special figure special electricity processing data is “0 (zero)”, the special symbol memory determination process is performed (S1903). If the special figure special electric treatment data is “1”, the special symbol variation processing is executed. (S1904), and if the special figure special electricity processing data is "2", special symbol stop processing is carried out (S1905).

  Also, if the special figure special power processing data is “3”, the big hit game processing is performed (S1906), and if the special figure special electric processing data is “4”, the big hit game end processing is executed (S1907). If the process data is “5”, a small hit game process is performed (S1908).

  This “special drawing special electricity processing data” is set as necessary in each subroutine of the special figure special electricity control processing, so that the subroutine necessary for the game is appropriately processed.

  As the special symbol memory determination process at this time, the main CPU 110a performs a jackpot determination process, a special symbol determination process for determining a special symbol to be stopped and displayed, a variation time determination process for determining a variation time of the special symbol, and the like. The detailed flow of this special symbol memory determination process will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 20 is an example of a flowchart showing a detailed flow of the special symbol memory determination process performed on the main control board 110 of the gaming machine in the embodiment of the present invention.

  First, the main CPU 110a determines whether one or more data is set in the first special symbol hold count (U1) storage area or the second special symbol hold count (U2) storage area (S2001).

  If one or more data is not set in any storage area of the first special symbol hold number (U1) storage area or the second special symbol hold number (U2) storage area (NO in S2001), the special figure is stored. The special symbol variation process of this time is terminated while the special electric processing data is kept at “0 (zero)”.

  On the other hand, if one or more data is set in the first special symbol hold count (U1) storage area or the second special symbol hold count (U2) storage area (YES in S2001), the main CPU 110a performs the jackpot determination process. Perform (S2002).

  Specifically, when one or more data is set in the second special symbol hold count (U2) storage area, 1 is calculated from the value stored in the second special symbol hold count (U2) storage area. After the subtraction, the various random numbers stored in the first to fourth storage units in the second special symbol random number storage area are shifted to the previous storage unit. At this time, various random values already written in the 0th storage unit are overwritten and deleted. Whether the special symbol determination random number value stored in the 0th storage unit of the second special symbol random value storage area is a random value corresponding to “big hit” or a random value corresponding to “small hit” Judgment is made.

  In addition, when one or more data is not set in the second special symbol hold number (U2) storage area and one or more data is set in the first special symbol hold number (U1) storage area, Various random numbers stored in the first to fourth storage units in the first special symbol random number storage area after subtracting 1 from the value stored in the first special symbol hold number (U1) storage area Is shifted to the previous storage unit. Also at this time, various random numbers already written in the 0th storage unit are overwritten and deleted. Whether the special symbol determination random number value stored in the 0th storage unit of the first special symbol random value storage area is a random value corresponding to “big hit” or a random value corresponding to “small hit” Judgment is made.

  In the present embodiment, the random number value stored in the second special symbol random value storage area is shifted (digested) with priority over the first special symbol random value storage area.

  Without being limited thereto, the first special symbol storage area or the second special symbol storage area may be shifted in the order of winning in the start opening, or the first special symbol storage area may be shifted to the second special symbol storage area. The shift may be performed with priority over.

  Next, the main CPU 110a performs a special symbol determination process for determining the type of special symbol to be stopped and displayed (S2003).

  In this special symbol determination process, when it is determined as “big hit” in the jackpot determination process (S2002), the big hit symbol random number value stored in the 0th storage unit of the first special symbol random number value storage area is set. The jackpot symbol is determined based on this.

  Also, in the big hit determination process (S2002), when it is determined as “small hit”, the small hit symbol random number value stored in the 0th storage unit of the first special symbol random number value storage area is small. The winning symbol is determined.

  Further, in the big hit determination process (S2002), when it is determined “lost”, a lost symbol is determined.

  Stop symbol data corresponding to the special symbol determined as described above is stored in the stop symbol data storage area.

  Next, the main CPU 110a performs special symbol variation time determination processing (S2004).

  Specifically, the variation pattern of the special symbol is determined based on the reach determination random number value and the special diagram variation random value stored in the 0th storage unit of the first special symbol random value storage area. Thereafter, the variation time of the special symbol corresponding to the determined variation pattern of the special symbol is determined. Then, a process of setting a counter corresponding to the determined variation time of the special symbol in the special symbol time counter is performed.

  The main CPU 110a sets variation display data for causing the first special symbol display device 20 or the second special symbol display device 21 to perform variation display of the special symbol (LED blinking) in a predetermined processing area.

  As a result, when variable display data is set in a predetermined processing area, LED lighting or extinguishing data is appropriately created by the above processing, and the created data is output, whereby the first special symbol display The variable display of the device 20 or the second special symbol display device 21 is performed.

  Furthermore, when the special symbol variation display is started (S2005), the main CPU 110a changes the special symbol variation pattern designation command corresponding to the determined special symbol variation pattern (the first special symbol variation pattern designation command or The second special symbol variation pattern designation command) is set in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c.

  The main CPU 110a sets “special symbol special power processing data = 0” to “special symbol special power processing data = 1” (S2006), prepares to move to a special symbol variation processing subroutine, and ends the special symbol memory determination processing. To do.

  FIG. 21 is an example of a flowchart showing a detailed flow of the main process performed on the effect control board 120 of the gaming machine in the embodiment of the present invention.

  First, the sub CPU 120a performs an initialization process (S2101).

  In this initialization process, the sub CPU 120a reads a main processing program from the sub ROM 120b and initializes and sets a flag and the like stored in the sub RAM 120c in response to power-on.

  Next, the sub CPU 120a performs an effect random number update process (S2102).

  In this effect random number update process, the sub CPU 120a updates the random numbers (the effect random number value 1, the effect random number value 2, the effect design determining random value, the effect mode determining random value, etc.) stored in the sub RAM 120c. Process.

  Subsequently, it is determined whether or not a power interruption process for shutting off the power is performed (S2103). Until the power interruption process is performed (NO in S2103), the effect random number update process and the subsequent processes are performed until a predetermined interrupt process is performed. Repeat. If the power interruption process has been performed (YES in S2103), the process ends.

  FIG. 22 is an example of a flowchart showing a detailed flow of a timer interrupt process performed on the effect control board 120 of the gaming machine in the embodiment of the present invention.

  Although not shown in the figure, a clock pulse is generated every predetermined period (2 milliseconds) by a reset clock pulse generation circuit provided on the effect control board 120, a timer interrupt processing program is read, and the timer of the effect control board is read. Interrupt processing is executed.

  First, the sub CPU 120a saves the information stored in the register of the sub CPU 120a in the stack area (S2201), and updates various timer counters used in the effect control board 120 (S2202).

  Next, the sub CPU 120a performs command analysis processing (S2203).

  In this command analysis processing, the sub CPU 120a performs processing for analyzing a command stored in the reception buffer of the sub RAM 120c. A specific description of the command analysis processing will be described later with reference to FIGS. When the effect control board 120 receives a command transmitted from the main control board 110, a command reception interrupt process of the effect control board 120 (not shown) occurs, and the received command is stored in the reception buffer. Thereafter, the received command is analyzed.

  The sub CPU 120a checks the signals of the effect button detection switch 35a and the cross key detection switch 36a, performs effect input control processing related to the effect button 35 (S2204), and receives various commands set in the transmission buffer of the sub RAM 120c. Data output processing to be transmitted to the lamp control board 140 and the image control board 150 is performed (S2205).

  Then, the sub CPU 120a restores the information saved in S1810 to the register of the sub CPU 120a (S2206).

  FIG. 23 is an example of a first flowchart showing a detailed flow of command analysis processing performed on the effect control board 120 of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 24 shows the command analysis shown in FIG. It is a 2nd flowchart which shows the continuation of a process.

  The sub CPU 120a checks whether there is a command in the reception buffer, and checks whether the command is received (S2301).

  If there is no command in the reception buffer (NO in S2301), the sub CPU 120a ends the command analysis process. If there is a command in the reception buffer (YES in S2301), it is subsequently confirmed whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is a demo designation command (S2302).

  If the command stored in the reception buffer is a demonstration designation command (YES in S2302), the sub CPU 120a performs a demonstration effect pattern determination process for determining a demonstration effect pattern (S2303).

  Specifically, the demonstration effect pattern is determined, the determined demonstration effect pattern is set in the effect pattern storage area, and information on the determined demonstration effect pattern is transmitted to the image control board 150 and the lamp control board 140. An effect pattern designation command based on the demo effect pattern is set in the transmission buffer of the sub-RAM 120c.

  If the command stored in the reception buffer is not a demo designation command (NO in S2302), the sub CPU 120a confirms whether the command stored in the reception buffer is a special symbol storage designation command. (S2304).

  If the command stored in the reception buffer is a special symbol memory designation command (YES in S2304), the special symbol memory designation command is analyzed and displayed on the first liquid crystal display device 31 and / or the second liquid crystal display device 37. A special symbol memory number determination process for determining the number of special figure reservation images to be displayed and transmitting a special figure display number designation command corresponding to the determined display number of special figure reservation images to the image control board 150 and the lamp control board 140 Is performed (S2305).

  If the command stored in the reception buffer is not a special symbol storage designation command (NO in S2304), the sub CPU 120a then determines whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is an effect symbol designation command. Confirmation is made (S2306).

  If the command stored in the reception buffer is an effect designating command (YES in S2306), the sub CPU 120a determines the first liquid crystal display device 31 and / or the second liquid crystal based on the content of the received effect designating command. An effect symbol determination process for determining an effect symbol 38 to be stopped and displayed on the display device 37 is performed (S2307).

  Specifically, the effect symbol determination process analyzes the effect symbol designation command, determines the effect symbol data constituting the combination of the effect symbols 38 according to the presence or absence of the jackpot and the type of jackpot, and the determined effect In addition to setting the symbol data in the effect symbol storage area and transmitting the effect symbol data to the image control board 150 and the lamp control board 140, a stop symbol designating command indicating the effect symbol data is set in the transmission buffer of the sub RAM 120c. .

  At this time, the sub CPU 120a further acquires one random number value from the effect mode determination random value updated as shown above, and based on the acquired effect mode determination random value and the received effect designating command. Then, an effect mode determination process for determining one effect mode from a plurality of effect modes (for example, a normal effect mode and a chance effect mode) is performed (S2308). Further, the determined effect mode is set in the effect mode storage area.

  If the command stored in the reception buffer is not an effect designating command (NO in S2306), the sub CPU 120a checks whether or not the command stored in the receiving buffer is a variation pattern specifying command (S2309). ).

  If the command stored in the reception buffer is a variation pattern designation command (YES in S2309), the sub CPU 120a acquires one random value from the updated effect random value 1, and the acquired effect random value 1. Based on the received variation pattern designation command and the effect mode set in the effect mode storage area, a variation effect pattern determination process for determining one variation effect pattern from a plurality of variation effect patterns is performed (S2310). .

  Thereafter, based on the effect pattern, the first liquid crystal display device 31, the audio output device 32, the effect drive device 33, the effect illumination device 34, and the second liquid crystal display device 37 are controlled. Note that the variation mode of the effect design 38 is determined based on the variation effect pattern determined here.

  If the command stored in the reception buffer is not a variation pattern designation command (NO in S2309), the sub CPU 120a checks whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is a symbol determination command (S2311). .

  If the command stored in the reception buffer is a symbol determination command (YES in S2311), the sub CPU 120a transmits a stop designation command for stopping and displaying the effect symbol to stop the effect symbol 38 to be transmitted to the sub RAM 120c. An effect symbol stop process set in the buffer is performed (S2312).

  If the command stored in the reception buffer is not a symbol determination command (NO in S2311), the sub CPU 120a determines whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is a gaming state designation command (S2313). .

  If the command stored in the reception buffer is a gaming state designation command (YES in S2313), the sub CPU 120a stores data indicating the gaming state based on the received gaming state designation command in the gaming state storage area in the sub RAM 120c. Setting is made (S2314).

  If the command stored in the reception buffer is not a gaming state designation command (NO in S2313), the sub CPU 120a checks whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is an opening command (S2315).

  If the command stored in the reception buffer is an opening command (YES in S2315), the sub CPU 120a performs a hit start effect pattern determination process for determining a hit start effect pattern (S2316).

  Specifically, the hit start effect pattern is determined based on the opening command, the determined hit start effect pattern is set in the effect pattern storage area, and information on the determined hit start effect pattern is controlled by the image control board 150 and the lamp control. In order to transmit to the board 140, an effect pattern designation command based on the determined hit start effect pattern is set in the transmission buffer of the sub RAM 120c.

  If the command stored in the reception buffer is not an opening command (NO in S2315), the sub CPU 120a determines that the command stored in the reception buffer is the first grand prize port 16 and / or the second grand prize port 17. It is confirmed whether or not it is a special winning opening opening designation command instructing opening (S2317).

  If the command stored in the reception buffer is a big winning opening opening designation command (YES in S2317), the sub CPU 120a performs a big hit effect pattern determination process for determining a big hit effect pattern (S2318).

  Specifically, the jackpot effect pattern is determined based on the big prize opening opening designation command, the determined jackpot effect pattern is set in the effect pattern storage area, and information on the determined jackpot effect pattern is stored in the image control board 150 and the lamp. In order to transmit to the control board 140, an effect pattern designation command based on the determined jackpot effect pattern is set in the transmission buffer of the sub RAM 120c.

  If the command stored in the reception buffer is not a special winning opening release designation command (NO in S2317), the sub CPU 120a checks whether the command stored in the reception buffer is an ending command (S2319). ).

  If the command stored in the reception buffer is an ending command (YES in S2319), the sub CPU 120a performs a hit end effect pattern determination process for determining a hit end effect pattern (S2320).

  Specifically, the winning end effect pattern is determined based on the ending command, the determined winning end effect pattern is set in the effect pattern storage area, and information on the determined hit end effect pattern is controlled by the image control board 150 and the lamp control. In order to transmit to the board 140, an effect pattern designation command based on the determined hit end effect pattern is set in the transmission buffer of the sub-RAM 120c.

  If it is not any command (NO in S2319), the command analysis process is terminated by terminating this process.

  Next, FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing a detailed flow of the rendering control process (main process) of the effect image performed on the image control board 150 of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  When power is supplied from the power supply board 170, the image control board 150 generates a system reset in the liquid crystal control CPU 150a, and the liquid crystal control CPU 150a performs the following processing.

  The image control board 150 performs an initialization process in the liquid crystal control CPU 150a (S2501).

  In this initialization process, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a reads the main processing program from the liquid crystal control ROM 150c and instructs the initial settings of the various modules of the liquid crystal control CPU 150a and the VDP 2000 when the power is turned on.

  Here, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a, as an instruction for initial setting of the VDP 2000, (1) instructs the display circuit constituting the VDP 2000 to create and output a video signal, and therefore instructs the display of the video signal (display). (“1” is set to 0 bit of the register), or (2) image data that is frequently used in the decompression circuit constituting the VDP2000 (image data such as production symbol 38) is decompressed to the image data development area 153b of the VRAM 153. In order to set the initial value data in the expansion register, or (3) the initial value image data (such as a character image “power-on”) is drawn in the drawing circuit constituting the VDP 2000. Output value display list.

  Next, the image drawing instruction unit 150d of the liquid crystal control CPU 150a performs effect pattern designation command analysis processing for analyzing the effect pattern designation command (command stored in the reception buffer of the liquid crystal control RAM 150b) transmitted from the effect control board 120. It performs (S2502).

  When the image control board 150 receives a command transmitted from the effect control board 120, a command reception interrupt process of the image control board 150 (not shown) occurs, and the received command is stored in the reception buffer. Thereafter, the received command is analyzed.

  The effect pattern designation command analysis process confirms whether or not an effect pattern designation command is stored in the reception buffer. If the effect pattern designation command is not stored in the reception buffer, the process is continued. If the effect pattern designation command is stored in the reception buffer, a process of reading a new effect pattern designation command is performed. Based on the read effect pattern designation command, one or more animation groups to be executed are determined, and an animation pattern is determined from each animation group.

  When the animation pattern is determined, the read effect pattern designation command is deleted from the transmission buffer.

  Next, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a performs animation control processing (S2503). In this animation control process, based on the above-described “scene switching counter”, “weight frame”, “frame counter” to be updated, and the animation pattern determined by the process as described above, Update the scene address.

  The image control board 150 displays the display information (sprite identification number, display position of the animation scene at the updated address in accordance with the priority order (drawing order) of the animation group to which the animation scene belongs in the image drawing instruction section 150d of the liquid crystal control CPU 150a. Etc.) to generate a display list.

  Then, the image control board 150 transfers the generated display list (first display list or second display list) to the display list storage area 154 in the VRAM 153 via the transmission / reception control unit 2001 of the VDP 2000 in the image drawing instruction unit 150d. (S2504).

  Subsequently, the image control board 150 performs a rendering control process of the effect image (S2505). In this drawing control process, the image drawing instruction unit 150d of the liquid crystal control CPU 150a instructs the VDP 2000 to draw the effect image based on the display list stored in the display list storage area 154 of the VDP 2000. The image is transmitted to the image drawing control unit 2002.

  In the drawing control process of S2305, the image drawing control unit 2002 sets drawing instruction data in the drawing register 2003. That is, at the start of power-on, execution of drawing is instructed for the initial value display list output in the above step (S2501), and execution of drawing with respect to the display list is instructed during normal routine processing.

  In addition, the image drawing control unit 2002 supplies the DMA instruction data to the DMA controller, and transfers the first liquid crystal based on the display list used for drawing control directly transferred from the display list storage area 154 to the display list development work area 2004. The rendering control of the effect image displayed on the display device 31 or the second liquid crystal display device is performed, and the rendering-controlled effect image is output to the corresponding display device (the first liquid crystal display device 31 or the second liquid crystal display device).

  Then, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a determines whether or not the FB switching flag = 01 (S2506).

  Here, as will be described later with reference to FIG. 26 (b), the FB switching flag indicates that the previous drawing of the first display list has been completed in the V blank interrupt every “1/60 seconds (about 16.6 ms)”. Then, the FB switching flag = 01. That is, it is determined whether or not the previous drawing has been completed.

  If the FB switching flag is “01” (YES in S2506), the image drawing instruction unit 150d of the liquid crystal control CPU 150a150a sets the FB switching flag to “00” (turns the FB switching flag off) (S2507). The process is terminated.

  On the other hand, if the FB switching flag is “00” (NO in S2506), the process waits until the FB switching flag becomes “01”.

  Next, FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing a detailed flow of an interrupt process performed on the image control board 150 of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  In the interrupt processing of the image control board 150, a drawing end interrupt process performed by inputting a drawing end interrupt signal, a V blank interrupt process performed by inputting a V blank interrupt signal, and a command are received. And at least a command reception interrupt process performed.

  Note that the drawing end interrupt process and the V blank interrupt process are described with reference to FIG. 26, but the command reception interrupt process is as described above, and is not illustrated.

  FIG. 26A is a flowchart showing a detailed flow of a drawing end interrupt process performed on the image control board 150 of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  The image drawing control unit 2002 of the VDP 2000 outputs a drawing end interrupt signal to the image drawing instruction unit 150d of the liquid crystal control CPU 150a when drawing of image data of a predetermined number of frames (predetermined unit) is completed.

  When receiving the drawing end interrupt signal from the image drawing control unit 2002, the image drawing instruction unit 150d executes a drawing end interrupt process.

  In the drawing end interrupt process, the image drawing instruction unit 150d sets the drawing end flag = 01 (turns on the drawing end flag), and ends the current drawing end interrupt process (S2601). That is, the drawing end flag is turned on every time drawing ends.

  FIG. 26B is a flowchart showing a detailed flow of the V blank interrupt process performed on the image control board 150 of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  The image drawing control unit 2002 of the VDP 2000 sends a V blank interrupt signal (vertical synchronization signal) to the image drawing instruction unit 150d of the liquid crystal control CPU 150a via the transmission / reception control unit 2001 every 1/60 seconds (about 16.6 ms). Output.

  When an image drawing instruction unit 150d of the liquid crystal control CPU 150a receives a V blank interrupt signal from the image drawing control unit 2002 of the VDP 2000, the image drawing instruction unit 150d executes a V blank interrupt process.

  In addition, the image drawing instruction unit 150d performs processing for updating various counters such as “scene switching counter”, “wait frame”, and “frame counter” (S2602), and determines whether or not the drawing end flag = 01. (S2603).

  That is, it is determined whether drawing of image data of a predetermined number of frames (predetermined unit) has been completed.

  If the image drawing instruction unit 150d determines that the “drawing end flag” is “01” (YES in step S2603), the image drawing instruction unit 150d sets “00” to the “drawing end flag” (that is, turns off the drawing end flag). (S2604).

  If the “drawing end flag” is not “01” (NO in S2603), the current V blank interrupt process is terminated. That is, even if a V blank interrupt signal is input, the subsequent processing is not performed unless drawing is completed.

  Subsequently, the image drawing instruction unit 150d gives an instruction to switch between the “display frame buffer” and the “drawing frame buffer” to the memory controller included in the VDP 2000 (S2605).

  Specifically, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a performs a process of incrementing to the first bit of the display register (a process of adding “1”).

  Then, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a sets “01” to the “FB switching flag” (turns on the FB switching flag) (S2606), cancels the standby state, and ends the V blank interrupt processing.

  The embodiment described above is one embodiment of the present invention, and is not limited to these examples, and can be implemented with appropriate modifications within a range not changing the gist thereof.

  FIG. 27 is a timing chart showing a temporal flow of the drawing control process performed in the gaming machine 1 in the present embodiment.

  Here, in order to simplify the description, the rendering control process of the effect image displayed on the first liquid crystal display device 31 using the first display list will be described, and the second liquid crystal display device 37 using the second display list. Description of the rendering control process of the effect image displayed on the screen will be omitted. Needless to say, the drawing control process using the second display list performs the same process as the drawing control process using the first display list.

  At “timing A”, the image drawing instruction unit 150d of the liquid crystal control CPU 150a receives the effect pattern designation command transmitted from the sub CPU 120a of the effect control board 120, and generates the first display list based on the effect pattern designation command. To start.

  The first display list generation process by the image drawing instruction unit 150d is performed from “timing A” to “timing B”.

  At “timing B”, the image drawing instruction unit 150 d of the liquid crystal control CPU 150 a transfers the generated first display list to the display list storage area 154 of the VRAM 153 via the transmission / reception control unit 2001 of the VDP 2000. The first display list transfer process is performed from “timing B” to “timing C”.

  The image drawing instruction unit 150d transmits drawing instruction data to the image drawing control unit 2002 of the VDP 2000 at “timing E” at which the rendering control process of the effect image after the transfer of the first display list is started.

  As a result, at “timing E”, the DMA controller in which the above-described parameter setting is performed by the image drawing control unit 2002 transfers the first display list from the display list storage area 154 of the VRAM 153 to the display list development work area 2004 of the drawing register 2003. Start the direct transfer process.

  The direct transfer processing of the first display list by the DMA controller is performed from “timing E” to “timing F”.

  At “timing F”, the image drawing control unit 2002 starts drawing control for drawing the image data of the effect image in the frame buffer 155 based on the first display list stored in the display list development work area 2004 of the drawing register 2003. To do.

  When the rendering control process of the image data of the effect image is performed from “timing F” to “timing G”, at “timing G”, the image rendering control unit 2002 sets the image data of the rendering image controlled to the first Output to the liquid crystal display device 31. Thereby, the first liquid crystal display device 31 displays an effect image based on the drawing-controlled image data from “timing G” to “timing H”.

  On the other hand, the lamp control board 140 receives the effect pattern designation command transmitted from the sub CPU 120a of the effect control board 120 at “timing A”. Thereafter, at “timing D”, the lamp control board 140 controls energization of a solenoid, a motor, or the like as a drive source based on the effect pattern designation command to drive and control the effect drive device 33, and effect illumination The process for controlling the lighting of the device 34 is started. Alternatively, the lamp control board 140 may perform any one of drive control of the effect drive device 33 and lighting control of the effect illumination device 34.

  At least one of the drive control of the effect driving device 33 and the lighting control of the effect lighting device 34 by the lamp control board 140 is performed from “timing D” to “timing G”.

  At this “timing G”, at least one of driving of the effect driving device 33 and lighting of the effect lighting device 34 is started. At least one of the driving of the effect driving device 33 and the lighting of the effect lighting device 34 is performed from “timing G” to “timing H”.

  Therefore, at this “timing G”, the display of the effect image of the effect content based on the predetermined effect pattern designation command is started, and the drive and effect drive of the effect content effect drive device 33 based on the effect pattern designation command are started. At least one of the lighting devices 34 is turned on.

  From “timing G” to “timing H”, the display of the effect image on the first liquid crystal display device 31 and at least one of the driving of the effect driving device 33 and the lighting of the effect lighting device 34 are performed. Is called.

  The above-mentioned “timing D” is the end timing (timing G) so that the rendering control of the effect image ends at the end timing (timing G) of the drive control of the effect driving device 33 and the lighting control of the effect lighting device 34. ) From the drawing control time.

  Thus, the timing (timing G) at which display of the effect image on the first liquid crystal display device 31 is started, and the timing (timing) at which at least one of driving of the effect driving device 33 and lighting of the effect lighting device 34 is started. G) matches.

  That is, at least one of driving of the effect driving device 33 and lighting of the effect lighting device 34 is performed at the timing of displaying the effect image on the first liquid crystal display device 31. As a result, with the effect content based on the variable effect pattern specified by the effect pattern specifying command, the effect image display, the driving of the effect driving device 33 and the lighting of the effect lighting device 34 are performed in conjunction with each other at an accurate timing. Is called.

  Note that the control processing performed by the lamp control board 140 is not limited to the example (example starting at “timing D”) performed at the timing as shown in FIG. As shown in the timing chart of FIG. 28, the lamp control board 140 receives the effect pattern designation command transmitted from the sub CPU 120a of the effect control board 120 at “timing A”.

  The lamp control board 140 starts control processing of at least one of the drive control of the effect driving device 33 and the lighting control of the effect lighting device 34 at, for example, “timing A”, and this timing until “timing I”. Control processing may be performed.

  In this case, the lamp control board 140 generates a control signal indicating the control processing result, and temporarily stores the control signal in a memory such as a RAM (not shown) provided in the lamp control board 140. Thereby, the lamp control board 140 can perform at least one of driving of the effect driving device 33 and lighting of the effect lighting device 34 based on the control signal read from the memory at “timing G”. it can.

  As described above, in the gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment, as soon as the liquid crystal control CPU 150a generates the display list based on the effect pattern designation command transmitted from the effect control board 120, the display list storage area 154 of the VRAM 153 in the VDP 2000 is displayed. Forward to.

  Thereafter, when the gaming machine 1 performs rendering of the effect image, the liquid crystal control CPU 150a transmits drawing instruction data to the effect of rendering the effect image to the VDP 2000. As a result, the display list stored in the display list storage area 154 of the VRAM 153 is directly transferred to the display list development work area 2004 of the drawing register 2003, and drawing control of the effect image displayed on the first liquid crystal display device 31 is started.

  As soon as the gaming machine 1 in the present embodiment generates the display list generated by the image drawing instruction unit 150d of the liquid crystal control CPU 150a, it transfers the display list to the display list storage area 154 of the VRAM 153 of the VDP2000. In the VDP 2000, the display list is transferred from the VRAM 153 to the drawing register 2003 at the timing of rendering the effect image according to the display timing.

  Thereby, the gaming machine 1 generates a display list from the VRAM 153 and outputs it to the VDP every time the rendering control of the effect image is performed by the VDP, and outputs the display list from the VRAM 153 to the drawing register 2003. It can be transferred at high speed.

  Further, the gaming machine 1 transfers the display list from the VRAM 153 to the drawing register 2003 without using the image drawing control unit 2002 as a processor and the cache memory in the VDP 2000. As a result, the gaming machine 1 can reduce the processing load on the processor (image drawing control unit 2002), and thus can perform rendering control of the effect image with high accuracy.

150a LCD control CPU
150d Image drawing instruction unit 153 VRAM
154 Display list storage area 155 Frame buffer 2000 VDP
2001 Transmission / reception control unit 2002 Image drawing control unit 2003 Drawing register 2004 Display list development work area

Claims (1)

Image drawing instruction means for instructing drawing of the effect image based on image forming information for forming an effect image to be displayed in the case of the effect in the game using the game medium;
And drawing control means for performing drawing control of the presentation image based on the previous SL image forming information,
Comprising a display means for displaying an image output Starring controlled drawn by the drawing control means,
The drawing control means includes
First storage means for storing image forming information transmitted from the image drawing instruction means;
Second storage means for storing image forming information stored in the first storage means;
Transfer control means for performing transfer control for transferring the image forming information stored in the first storage means to the second storage means;
Image rendering control means for performing rendering control of the effect image based on the image forming information stored in the second storage means,
The image drawing instruction means includes
After generating the image forming information and transmitting it to the first storage means, transmitting drawing instruction information for instructing drawing of the effect image based on the image forming information to the image drawing control means,
The image drawing control means includes
Based on the drawing instruction information transmitted from the image drawing instruction means, the transfer control means is instructed to transfer the image forming information from the first storage means to the second storage means,
The transfer control means transfers the image forming information stored in the first storage means to the second storage means based on an instruction from the image drawing control means,
The image drawing control means includes
A gaming machine that performs rendering control of the effect image based on the image forming information transferred from the first storage means and stored in the second storage means by the transfer control means .

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