JP5737251B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine, and more particularly, to a so-called seven machine, a winged article, a right article, or a ball-type gaming machine such as an arrangement ball.

  A ball-type game machine (pachinko machine) usually has a start opening and a big prize opening in the game area. In such a gaming machine, determination of success / failure (for example, big hit lottery) is performed using a random number for lottery acquired based on the game ball entering the starting port, and symbol variation using special symbol display means A game is started. Then, with the end of the symbol variation game, the determination result is stopped and displayed on the special symbol display means. In addition, this type of gaming machine is usually provided with effect display means for performing symbol variation effect display, etc. using effect symbols (pseudo symbols, etc.) separately from the special symbol display means. The “determined result” is notified using the confirmation display.

  When the result of the determination is “winning”, the gaming machine starts a big hit game and changes the big winning device in the closed state (first state) to the open state (second state). Then, after the start of the open state (second state), the open state (second state) is once ended when a predetermined number of game balls have won a prize or the predetermined time has passed. End one “big hit round”. When this “big hit round” is repeated a predetermined number of times (number of rounds), this gaming machine ends the big hit game. Hereinafter, a game ball entering the start opening may be referred to as a “start winning prize”.

  By the way, even when a new random number for lottery is acquired during the execution of the symbol variation game or the big hit game, the new symbol variation game (the symbol variation effect display) is not ready to be started immediately. Until the start timing of the symbol variation game (symbol variation effect display) based on the random number for lottery comes, it is stored in the acquired random number storage means as a hold (hold information). The acquired random number storage means stores the lottery random number acquired based on the start winning prize as a hold (hold information) with a predetermined upper limit as a limit, and the timing for digesting the lottery random number (hold) Comes, the one to be processed first among the random numbers for lottery stored in the acquired random number storage means is read out, and is subjected to determination of success / failure (symbol variation game, symbol variation effect display) or the like. Further, every time the acquired random number for lottery is stored in the acquired random number storage means, a hold display for displaying the number of hold (hold information) is performed by the effect display means or the dedicated display means.

  Among such gaming machines, prior to the start of the symbol variation game (symbol variation effect display) based on the lottery random number for the lottery random number stored in the acquired random number storage means as a hold (hold information). In addition, there is one that performs pre-determination (so-called pre-reading of hold information) and performs an effect (so-called pre-reading pre-production) that suggests the result of the pre-determination using the effect display means. For example, once the displayed display mode of the hold display is changed from a normal display mode (for example, “white display”) to a specific display mode (for example, “red display”), a hold change announcement effect ( A lot of gaming machines employ a notice effect such as a prior art notice (see Prior Art 1) and a continuous notice effect (see Prior Art 2) over a plurality of symbol variation effect displays.

JP 2012-24130 A JP 2001-340571 A

  However, recently, the “holding prefetching effect” as described above has become uniform, lacking in freshness, and it is difficult to enhance the entertainment interest of the game. In other words, the conventional “hold prefetching effect” merely informs the possibility of occurrence of “big hit” or “reach”, and the effect is uniform and lacks unexpectedness. It is difficult to enhance the feeling. Therefore, the advent of a new production technique that can enhance the gaming interest while making use of the function relating to the prior determination of the gaming machine is desired.

  The present invention has been made to solve such a problem, and an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine capable of enhancing the gaming interest while making use of a function relating to prior determination.

The gaming machine according to claim 1,
Random number acquisition means for acquiring a random number for variation determination for determining at least the variation pattern of the symbol variation effect display based on the game ball entering the start opening,
An acquired random number storage means for storing the variation determining random number acquired by the random number acquiring means;
When a predetermined symbol variation execution condition is satisfied, a variation pattern determining unit that determines the variation pattern based on the variation determining random number stored in the acquired random number storage unit;
Symbol variation effect display means for performing symbol variation effect display based on the variation pattern determined by the variation pattern determination means;
Based on the variation determination random number acquired by the random number acquisition unit, a variation pattern prior determination unit that predetermines a variation pattern to be determined by the variation pattern determination unit;
When the variation pattern preliminarily determined by the variation pattern prior determination unit is a specific variation pattern, the symbol based on the specific variation pattern is executed before the symbol variation effect display based on the specific variation pattern is performed by the symbol variation effect display unit. A notice display means for performing a change effect display as a notice display;
With
Wherein before the execution of the symbol variation effect display based on the specific variation pattern by the symbol variable effect display unit, a symbol variation effect display the symbol variation effect display means performs the warning display means and symbol variation effect display performed as predictive display is a viable and concurrent, symbol variation effect display the symbol variation effect display means performs is performed in the main display area of the predetermined display device, the warning display unit symbol variation effect display performed as predictive display Is performed in a sub display area formed in a part of the main display area,
When the execution time of the symbol variation effect display based on the specific variation pattern by the symbol variation effect display means comes, the notice display means ends the notice display, the sub display area is erased, and the symbol variation effect display means It intends rows symbol variation effect display based on the specific change pattern in the main display area
The gaming machine which is characterized a call.

  In the gaming machine of the present invention, a symbol variation effect display to be performed in the future by using the function of a prior determination regarding the variation pattern of the symbol variation effect display (complete symbol variation effect display including a notice effect during change, a reach effect, etc.) Can be shown to the player in advance as a notice display. Then, when the original execution timing of the symbol variation effect display that was shown in advance as the notice display has arrived, and the symbol variation effect display is performed (started) by the symbol variation effect display means, the symbol variation effect display is performed as the notice display. It is possible to show that the symbol variation effect display that has been started is restarted by the symbol variation effect display means. Therefore, according to the gaming machine of the present invention, it is possible to realize a new reserved pre-reading effect (pre-reading symbol variation effect display) that makes use of the function relating to the pre-determination, thereby enhancing the gaming interest.

  In the following description, the random number for variation determination that is determined in advance when the variation pattern becomes the specific variation pattern may be referred to as “specific hold”.

The gaming machine according to claim 2 is the gaming machine according to claim 1,
The time required from the start to the end of the symbol variation effect display based on the specific variation pattern is obtained after a preliminary determination result that the specific variation pattern is obtained by the variation pattern prior determination unit. the rather long than the time until the symbol variation effect display based on the specific change pattern is started by,
If the execution time of the symbol variation effect display based on the specific variation pattern by the symbol variation effect display unit comes before the symbol variation effect display performed by the notice display unit as the notice display, the notice display unit ends the notification display. Then, the sub display area is erased, and the symbol variation effect display means starts symbol variation effect display based on the specific variation pattern in the main display region .

  According to the present invention having this limitation, the execution time of the symbol variation effect display based on the specific variation pattern is longer than the time required from the occurrence of the specific hold to the digestion. Can be prevented in advance. For this reason, when the original execution timing of the symbol variation effect display that was shown in advance as the notice display has arrived, and this symbol variation effect display is started by the symbol variation effect display means, the result of this symbol variation effect display The expectation for can be maintained.

A gaming machine according to a first invention (hereinafter referred to as reference invention 1) disclosed in the present specification for reference is
Random number acquisition means for acquiring a random number for variation determination for determining at least the variation pattern of the symbol variation effect display based on the game ball entering the start opening,
An acquired random number storage means for storing the variation determining random number acquired by the random number acquiring means;
When a predetermined symbol variation execution condition is satisfied, a variation pattern determining unit that determines the variation pattern based on the variation determining random number stored in the acquired random number storage unit;
Symbol variation effect display means for performing symbol variation effect display based on the variation pattern determined by the variation pattern determination means;
Based on the variation determination random number acquired by the random number acquisition unit, a variation pattern prior determination unit that predetermines a variation pattern to be determined by the variation pattern determination unit;
When the variation pattern preliminarily determined by the variation pattern prior determination unit is a specific variation pattern, the symbol based on the specific variation pattern is executed before the symbol variation effect display based on the specific variation pattern is performed by the symbol variation effect display unit. A notice display means for performing a change effect display as a notice display;
With
Before the symbol variation effect display based on the specific variation pattern by the symbol variation effect display means, the symbol variation effect display performed by the symbol variation effect display means and the symbol variation effect display performed by the notice display means as a notice display are: Configured to be done in parallel,
When the execution time of the symbol fluctuation effect display based on the specific fluctuation pattern by the symbol fluctuation effect display means comes, the notice display means ends the notice display, and the symbol fluctuation effect display means causes the symbol fluctuation based on the specific fluctuation pattern. It is characterized by performing effect display.
In the gaming machine of the reference invention 1, by utilizing the function of a prior determination regarding the variation pattern of the symbol variation effect display, a symbol variation effect display to be performed in the future (complete symbol variation effect display including a notice effect during variation, a reach effect, etc.) ) Can be shown to the player in advance as a notice display. Then, when the original execution timing of the symbol variation effect display that was shown in advance as the notice display has arrived, and the symbol variation effect display is performed (started) by the symbol variation effect display means, the symbol variation effect display is performed as the notice display. It is possible to show that the symbol variation effect display that has been started is restarted by the symbol variation effect display means. Therefore, according to the gaming machine of the reference invention 1, it is possible to realize a new reserved pre-reading effect (pre-reading symbol variation effect display) that makes use of the function relating to the pre-determination, thereby enhancing the gaming interest.
A gaming machine according to a second invention (hereinafter referred to as reference invention 2) disclosed by reference in the present specification is the gaming machine of reference invention 1,
The time required from the start to the end of the symbol variation effect display based on the specific variation pattern is obtained after a preliminary determination result that the specific variation pattern is obtained by the variation pattern prior determination unit. Is longer than the time until the symbol variation effect display based on the specific variation pattern is started.
According to the reference invention 2, since the execution time of the symbol variation effect display based on the specific variation pattern is longer than the time required from the occurrence of the specific hold to the digestion, “result of the symbol variation effect display being executed as the notice display” Can be prevented in advance. For this reason, when the original execution timing of the symbol variation effect display that was shown in advance as the notice display has arrived, and this symbol variation effect display is started by the symbol variation effect display means, the result of this symbol variation effect display The expectation for can be maintained.
A gaming machine according to a third invention (hereinafter referred to as reference invention 3) disclosed by reference in the present specification is the gaming machine of reference invention 1 or reference invention 2 ,
A main body frame for holding a game board having a game area on the front surface;
A front frame that is mounted on the front side of the main body frame and includes a viewing window for allowing the game area to be viewed from the front;
With
The symbol change effect display by the symbol change effect display means and the notice display by the notice display means are provided in a single part provided behind the front frame and visible from the front of the front frame through the viewing window. It is performed using the display device of
The symbol variation effect display by the symbol variation effect display means is performed in a main display area formed on the display screen of the display device,
The notice display by the notice display means is performed in a sub display area formed smaller than the main display area on the display screen of the display device.

According to Reference Invention 3 , since the symbol variation effect display that is currently in progress and the symbol variation effect display that will be started in the future (preliminary display) are executed in parallel on the same display screen, both symbol variation effect displays are displayed simultaneously. It becomes easy to visually recognize. In other words, while watching the current symbol variation effect display, it is also possible to confirm the contents of the symbol variation effect display (preliminary display) that will be started in the future, so the current symbol variation effect display and the future symbol variation effect display It is easy to obtain the effect of performing the (pre-notice display) in parallel, and the game entertainment can be effectively enhanced.

A gaming machine according to a fourth invention (hereinafter referred to as reference invention 4) disclosed by reference in the present specification is the gaming machine of reference invention 1 or reference invention 2,
A main body frame for holding a game board having a game area on the front surface;
A front frame that is mounted on the front side of the main body frame and includes a viewing window for allowing the game area to be viewed from the front;
With
The symbol change effect display by the symbol change effect display means and the notice display by the notice display means are performed using separate display devices, respectively.
The display device on which the symbol variation effect display by the symbol variation effect display means is performed is provided at a rear portion of the front frame and visible from the front of the front frame through the viewing window,
The display device on which the notice display is performed by the notice display means is provided on the other part of the front frame that is visible from the front of the front frame through the visual recognition window. And

According to Reference Invention 4 , since the symbol variation effect display currently in progress and the symbol variation effect display (preliminary display) to be started in the future are executed in parallel on different display devices, the roles (functions) of each display device ) Can be clearly distinguished, and the player can recognize it. As a result, it becomes possible for the player to firmly recognize the presence of the notice display, and the game entertainment can be effectively enhanced.

  In this specification, “front” and “front” indicate “front with respect to the gaming machine (that is, a direction closer to the player)”, and “rear” and “back” indicate the gaming machine. The reference rear (that is, the direction away from the player) "is shown. Further, “left” indicates “left” as viewed from the player, and “right” indicates “right as viewed from the player”. Further, in “a member that can be opened and closed like a door (hereinafter referred to as a“ door type member ”)” such as a main body frame, a front frame, an upper plate member, a lower plate member, etc., “left”, “right” “Front”, “Rear” and the like are based on the case where these door-type members are in use, that is, in the closed state.

  Further, in this specification, a game ball entering (accepting) a variety of winning holes provided on the game board surface may be referred to as “winning” or “entering”. Of these, “winning” means that a game ball enters a winning opening, which is a premise for paying out a winning ball, and that a gaming ball enters (accepts) a winning opening. Substantially synonymous with “entering ball”. Furthermore, in a winning device that can change between a state where a winning is impossible (or difficult to win) and a state where a winning is possible (or easy to win), such as a large winning device and a second start winning device described later, Alternatively, a state where it is difficult to win a prize may be referred to as a first state, and a state where a prize is possible (or easy to win) may be referred to as a second state.

  As described above, according to the gaming machine of the present invention, it is possible to enhance the gaming interests while taking advantage of the function relating to the prior determination.

It is a front view which shows the game machine which concerns on each Example of this invention. In the gaming machine according to each embodiment of the present invention, it is a perspective view showing an outer frame, a main body frame, a front frame, and a dish member (an upper dish member, a lower dish member). It is a schematic explanatory view for explaining a main body frame and the like in the gaming machine according to each embodiment of the present invention. It is a front view which shows a game board in the game machine which concerns on each Example of this invention. It is a front view which shows roughly the display screen of the effect display apparatus of the game machine which concerns on each Example. It is a front view which shows roughly the display screen of the presentation display apparatus of the game machine which concerns on Example 1 and Example 2. FIG. (A) And (b) is a front view which shows schematically the variable start winning device. (A) is a front view schematically showing a lower display device of a gaming machine according to each embodiment, and (b) is a special symbol variable display mode executed by the lower display device of the gaming machine according to each embodiment. (C) is explanatory drawing which shows the variable display mode of the auxiliary | assistant symbol performed on the display screen of the presentation display apparatus of the game machine which concerns on each Example. It is a block diagram which shows the electronic control apparatus which concerns on each Example of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the electronic control apparatus which concerns on each Example of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the electronic control apparatus which concerns on each Example of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the electronic control apparatus which concerns on each Example of this invention. (A) is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the random number for lottery, (b) is explanatory drawing for demonstrating a start winning time command. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the data table used by the special figure 1 big hit lottery (1st big hit lottery) of the game machine which concerns on each Example. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the data table used by the special figure 2 big hit lottery (2nd big hit lottery) of the game machine which concerns on each Example. (A)-(c) is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the symbol fluctuation effect performed by the game machine which concerns on each Example of this invention. (A) And (b) is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the content of a pseudo | simulation symbol. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the symbol variation effect display performed according to a specific variation pattern. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the symbol variation effect display performed according to a specific variation pattern. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the symbol variation effect display performed according to a specific variation pattern. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the symbol fluctuation effect display of a special aspect. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the symbol fluctuation effect display of a special aspect. (A) And (b) is explanatory drawing which showed notably the mode that a command was output from the main control part in the gaming machine which concerns on each Example. It is a flowchart which shows the game control process of the game machine which concerns on each Example. It is a flowchart which shows the normal electric accessory game process of the game machine which concerns on each Example. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol game process of the game machine which concerns on each Example. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol game process of the game machine which concerns on each Example. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol game process of the game machine which concerns on each Example. It is a flowchart which shows the success / failure determination process of the gaming machine according to each embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the symbol change start process of the game machine which concerns on each Example. (A) And (b) is explanatory drawing which shows the variation pattern table for jackpots based on Example 1 and Example 3. FIG. It is explanatory drawing which shows the fluctuation pattern table for deviation concerning each Example. It is explanatory drawing which shows the fluctuation pattern table for deviation concerning each Example. It is explanatory drawing which shows the fluctuation pattern table for deviation concerning each Example. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the relationship between a notice display and the symbol fluctuation effect display performed based on a specific fluctuation pattern by the symbol fluctuation effect display means. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the production control processing of the gaming machine according to each embodiment. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the process at the time of holding | maintenance generation | occurrence | production of the game machine which concerns on each Example. It is a flowchart which shows the symbol change effect display process of the game machine which concerns on each Example. It is a flowchart which shows the notice display control process of the game machine which concerns on Example 1 and Example 3. FIG. (A) And (b) is explanatory drawing which shows the variation pattern table for jackpots based on Example 2. FIG. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the relationship between a notice display and the symbol fluctuation effect display performed based on a specific fluctuation pattern by the symbol fluctuation effect display means. It is a flowchart which shows the notice display control process of the game machine which concerns on Example 2. FIG. FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram for explaining Example 3; (A) is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the modification 1, (b) is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the modification 2. FIG.

  DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, embodiments showing modes for carrying out the invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following embodiments, specific examples in which the present invention is applied to a gaming machine (pachinko machine) 1 referred to as a “seven machine” will be described.

(1) Mechanical structure a. First, the overall structure of the gaming machine 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the gaming machine 1 includes an outer frame 2 and a gaming machine main body H (machine body) attached to the outer frame 2. The outer frame 2 includes an outer frame main body 21 configured by a substantially rectangular frame-shaped body, and a front plate portion 22 that covers a lower front portion of the outer frame main body 21.

  The gaming machine main body H is rotatably mounted on the left end side of the outer frame 2 using hinges H1 and H2 on the left end side of the outer frame 2 (see FIGS. 1 and 2). The gaming machine main body H is a portion of the gaming machine 1 excluding the outer frame 2, and as shown in FIG. 2, the main body frame 3, the front frame 4, and the dish member integrated with the front frame 4. (Upper plate member 5 and lower plate member 6) 5A, game board 10 (see FIG. 4), back mechanism board 102 (see FIG. 3) and the like are the main parts.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 3, the main body frame 3 is fitted into the outer frame 2 and is pivotally supported so as to be openable and closable with respect to the outer frame 2. As shown in FIG. 1, a locking device 7 is mounted on the right end side of the main body frame 3. In FIG. 2, the outer frame 2, the main body frame 3, the front frame 4, and the dish member 5 </ b> A are illustrated, and the game board 10 and the back mechanism board 102 are not shown.

  The main body frame 3 is entirely made of plastic, and is constituted by a frame-like body as shown in FIG. The main body frame 3 includes a frame main body portion 3b including a window portion 3M in an upper half portion, and a protruding portion 3c protruding in a substantially rectangular frame shape from the back surface portion of the frame main body portion 3b. And the main body frame 3 comprises the holding | maintenance part for hold | maintaining the game board 10 using this protrusion part 3c. That is, the holding tool 3f is mounted on the protruding end surface of the projecting portion 3c in a state where the holding tool 3f can rotate on the left and right sides of the window 3M and the right and left sides of the window 3M. The game board 10 is held by the main body frame 3 by bringing the protruding end of the game board 10 into contact with the rear surface of the game board 10.

  When the main body frame 3 holds the game board 10, the “game area 11 formed on the front surface portion 10a of the game board 10” can be viewed from the front of the main body frame 3 through the window 3M. Further, a back mechanism board 102 (see FIG. 3) is mounted on the back surface portion of the game board 10 to cover the back surface portion. The back pack 102 is pivotally supported by the middle frame 3 so that it can be opened and closed. The back pack 102 has a “game ball tank for storing game balls” and a “pay game ball to the upper plate member 5”. A “game ball payout device for taking out”, “a case containing various control boards (main control board 200 to be described later)” and the like are mounted.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the front frame 4 is disposed on the front side of the main body frame 3 and is supported at the left end of the main body frame 3 so as to be openable and closable. The front frame 4 has a visual recognition window 41a at the center thereof. This viewing window 41a is provided in a state penetrating the front and rear of the front frame 4, and a gaming area 11 (a substantially circular gaming area 11 in front view) formed on the board surface of the gaming board 10 is opened in a shape that can be seen from the front. When the front frame 4 is closed, the game area 11 located behind the front frame 4 can be viewed from the front through the viewing window 41a.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the front frame 4 includes a frame main body 41, a glass plate 43 (see FIG. 3) attached to the frame main body 41, and a holder for holding the glass plate 43 on the frame main body 41. (Not shown). Further, in the gaming machine 1, as shown in FIG. 2, “a plate member 5 </ b> A in which the upper plate member 5 and the lower plate member 6 are integrated” is integrated with the front frame 4, and the front frame with respect to the main body frame 3. 4 can be opened and closed integrally. However, the plate member 5 </ b> A may be mounted below the mounting portion of the front frame 4 in the main body frame 3 so that it can be opened and closed separately from the front frame 4. Further, the upper plate member 5 and the lower plate member 6 are provided separately, arranged below the mounting portion of the front frame 4 in the main body frame 3, and the upper plate member 5 arranged above is separated from the front frame 4. The lower plate member 6 arranged below can be opened and closed and cannot be opened and closed.

  As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, speakers SP1 and SP2 (see FIG. 10) are mounted on the left and right above the front portion of the front frame 4, and the speakers SP3 and SP2 are also attached to the left and right ends of the front plate portion 22, respectively. SP4 (see FIG. 10) is incorporated. And in this game machine 1, the sound effect according to a game state and other sounds (sound) are generated using these speakers SP1-SP4. In addition, as shown in FIG. 2, in the front surface portion of the front frame 4, a location that constitutes the position of the upper plate member 5 is provided with a receiving port 5 b for receiving a game ball discharged from the gaming machine 1. Yes. Further, a ball rental display board 410 (see FIG. 9) and an effect button board 228 (see FIG. 10) are provided on the back side of the upper plate member 5, and an “effect button SW” is provided on the upper surface of the upper plate member 5. In place (see FIG. 2).

  As shown in FIG. 2, a portion of the dish member 5 </ b> A below the upper dish member 5 constitutes the lower dish member 6. At the approximate center of the lower plate member 6, a receiving port 6 a for receiving a game ball discharged from the upper plate member 5 is provided in the inside of the substantially container shape. A firing handle 9 is provided on the right end side of the lower plate member 6. A launching device unit 90 (see FIG. 4) is disposed on the rear side of the front surface of the main body frame 3 (inside the main body frame 3) and located on the left end side below the game board 10. The launcher unit 9 is connected to the launcher unit 90. Here, the launcher unit 90 is for launching a game ball sent out from a ball feeder (not shown) substantially vertically upward to reach the game area 11.

  The launch handle 9 is equipped with a touch switch (touch sensor) 9a for detecting that the player is touching, and in the vicinity thereof, the launch stop for temporarily stopping the launch of the game ball is stopped. A switch 9b is attached. It should be noted that the launching device unit 90 of the present embodiment launches the game ball sent out from the ball feeding device (not shown) substantially vertically upward according to the setting of “100 shots / minute” to reach the game area 11.

b. Next, the configuration of the game board 10 will be described with reference to FIG. The game board 10 includes a game board main body 10A configured using a substantially rectangular plywood in front view, and various board components (the outer rail 12, the inner rail 13, and the main accessory attached to the game board main body 10A. Device 20 etc.) is mounted. Note that a sheet-like object on which a cell image is printed is attached to the front surface of the game board main body 10A, but the illustration is omitted.

  The game board main body 10A includes a region forming portion 10B that is substantially circular in a front view, and a region outside 10C that is positioned around the region forming portion 10B. In addition, an outer rail 12 and an inner rail 13 that are both configured using a band-shaped metal plate are disposed on the front surface of the game board main body 10A. And the front part (game board surface) of the area | region formation part 10B comprises the game area | region 11, being substantially enclosed by the substantially circular surrounding wall which this outer rail 12 and the inner rail 13 form.

  While the inner rail 13 is arranged in a substantially U shape, the game board main body 10A is disposed at the upper left portion at the left end portion, and the “game” between the “upper left portion of the outer rail 12” located on the left side thereof. A “gap through which a sphere can pass” is provided to form a ball entrance 11S. Further, the left end portion of the outer rail 12 is disposed close to the upper left of the ball outlet 96j of the launcher unit 90. And the part arrange | positioned on the outer side of the inner rail 13 in the outer rail 12 draws the path | route which goes up diagonally to the left from the left end part of the outer rail 12, and when it reached the side of the right end part of the inner rail 13, The route rises while changing the route to an arc-like route substantially parallel to the inner rail 13, and reaches the upper right part of the game board main body 10A beyond the side of the ball entrance 11S.

  The upper end portion of the auxiliary rail 13 </ b> B is integrated with the outer surface portion of the inner rail 13. Then, the “passage formed between the auxiliary rail 13B and the portion of the outer rail 12 substantially parallel to the auxiliary rail 13B” and the “passage formed between the outer rail 12 and the inner rail 13 above it reach the ball entrance 11S. The “passage” continuously forms the guide route Y. The lower end of the guide path Y communicates with the “ball outlet 96j of the launcher unit 90” and rises leftward from the lower end to rise “outside of the inner rail 13 (on the left side)” It passes through the outside of the rail 13 in the clockwise direction and reaches the ball entrance 11S.

  In the area forming unit 10B (the part located in the game area 11 in the game board 10), the main accessory device 20, the normal symbol operating gate (normal symbol operating port) 16, the first start winning device 17a, 2 Start winning device 17b, large winning device 31, lower display device 60, three general winning devices 40, 41, 43, a number of obstacle nails (not shown), windmill 19 and the like are arranged. ing.

  The main accessory device 20 includes an attachment member (decorative plate) 21 and an effect display device 27. Among these, the attachment member 21 is comprised by the plate-shaped body with which the front part of the area | region formation part 10B is mounted | worn, and comprises the upper half center part of the game area | region 11 as shown in FIG. The attachment member (decorative plate) 21 is provided with a window portion forming hole 21d, and the window portion forming hole 21d constitutes a display window 21e. The display window 21e is substantially rectangular when viewed from the front.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the stage member 21 p is attached to the lower edge portion of the attachment member 21 so as to protrude forward, and the decorative member 21 </ b> A is attached to the other part of the peripheral portion of the attachment member 21. It is mounted in a state of protruding. The decorative member 21A includes a flange portion 21H protruding from the upper edge portion of the mounting member 21, a left decorative portion 21L protruding from the left edge portion of the mounting member 21, and a right decorative portion protruding from the right edge portion of the mounting member 21. 21R.

  A game ball passage (a so-called “warp passage”) 21w is formed inside the left decorative portion 21L. That is, in the left side surface portion of the left decorative portion 21L, the entrance (not shown) of the passage 21w opens obliquely upward to the left, and the game ball flowing down the game area 11 is received at this entrance, and the stage It makes it approach on the part 21p (inside the main accessory apparatus 20). Moreover, the stage part 21p comprises the rolling surface of a game ball by the upper surface part. The rolling surface is configured as an inclined surface that descends from the left and right end portions toward the central portion, and is a raised portion that slightly protrudes upward at the central portion of the rolling surface.

  In the gaming machine 1, the game ball that has flowed down the game area 11 and reached the left end of the rolling surface through the passage 21w rolls right on the rolling surface, and further rolls leftward. . Then, when the momentum of the game ball has declined, this game ball is discharged out of the main accessory device 20, but most of the game balls discharged from the center of the rolling surface are first started with a certain probability. The winning device 17a is won (described later). Among the game balls that flow down the game area 11 and win the first start winning device 17a, those that enter the first start winning device 17a without entering the main winning device 17a and the main winning feature There is one that enters the device 20 and rolls on the stage portion 21p and then wins the first start winning device 17a.

  The effect display device 27 is configured by using a liquid crystal display device, and executes a symbol change effect display in accordance with the special symbol change display and stop display in the lower display device 60. In the present embodiment, the lower display device 60 (the first special symbol display unit 62a and the second special symbol display unit 62b) uses the special symbol (the main symbol) to perform the symbol variation game, and the effect display device 27 is simulated. The symbol variation effect display is performed using symbols (one specific example of the effect element is shown). Here, the symbol variation effect display is a display effect performed in accordance with the progress of the symbol variation game (variable display of special symbols, stop display) in order to show the player the result of the symbol variation game. In the following description, the special symbol (main symbol) displayed on the first special symbol display unit 62a is referred to as "first special symbol", and the special symbol (main symbol) displayed on the second special symbol display unit 62b. ) Is referred to as a “second special symbol”. Details of the first special symbol and the second special symbol will be described later.

  The display screen 27a of the effect display device 27 can be displayed so that the player can visually recognize various symbols using the whole or a part thereof. That is, in the case of performing a display effect without a notice display (a normal pattern change effect display described later), as shown in FIG. 5, the substantially entire display screen 27a becomes a main display area 27c. In the area 27c, a background design (hereinafter referred to as a background design), a background color (blue, red, etc.) is displayed. A pseudo symbol display area 27b for displaying three (three digits) pseudo symbols in a state of being superimposed on the front of the background symbols and background colors is provided on the main display area 27c. In the pseudo symbol display area 27b, three pseudo symbols are displayed side by side, and an effect display, a stop display, and the like using these “pseudo symbols” are performed. In addition, a pattern indicating a character (hereinafter referred to as a character pattern) may be displayed as a background pattern, or a live-action image (not shown) may be displayed. These “pseudo symbols” and the like indicate specific examples of “effect display elements” displayed on the display screen 27a of the effect display device 27. These “pseudo symbols”, “background symbols”, and “character symbols” indicate “ "Display effect" is realized.

  When the “pseudo symbol” is variably displayed in the pseudo symbol display area 27b, the background symbol and the background color can be visually recognized with the pseudo symbol display area 27b being watermarked. FIG. 5 shows an example in which the pseudo symbol display area 27b is provided in the upper half of the display screen 27a (main display area 27c). However, the pseudo symbol display area 27b is provided in another part of the display screen 27a ( For example, the left and right ends of the upper or lower side of the display screen 27a, about half of the lower side of the display screen 27a), or a wider area (for example, in the case of vertical scrolling, along the vertical direction of the display screen 27a). In the case of horizontal scrolling, it can also be provided in substantially the whole area along the horizontal direction of the display screen 27a). Also, the set part and size of the pseudo symbol display area 27b can be changed in accordance with the progress of the display effect.

  In addition, when a display effect accompanied by a notice display (a special-form symbol variation effect display described later) is performed, a sub display area 27e is provided in a part of the display screen 27a as shown in FIG. In this case, the range of the main display area 27c is narrowed by the amount provided for the sub display area 27e. In addition, in the sub display area 27e, a background symbol and background color related to the notice display are displayed, and a pseudo symbol display area 27f related to the notice display is provided in a state of being superimposed on the background symbol and the background color. Therefore, the player who faces the display effect (symbol change effect display) accompanied by the notice display displays the display effect (symbol change effect display) currently in progress in the main display area 27c, and the display effect to be executed in the future. (Symbol variation effect display) can be visually recognized in the sub display area 27e. Note that the size of the sub display area 27e is smaller than that of the main display area 27c (for example, “1/3” to “1/10” of the main display area 27c).

  Here, as the “effect element” for realizing the symbol variation effect accompanying the progress of the symbol variation game, the “display effect element” for realizing the display effect (symbol variation effect display) accompanying the progression of the symbol variation game, or the symbol variation "Sound effect element" that realizes a sound effect accompanying the progress of the game (an aspect of the symbol variation effect) and "Light effect effect element" that realizes a light effect (an aspect of the symbol variation effect) that accompanies the progress of the symbol change game In addition, a “movable effect element” for realizing a movable effect accompanying the progress of the symbol variation game can be cited. Among them, as the “display effect element”, for example, “pseudo symbols (designs that show the results of symbol variation games” “characters (titles, comments) displayed on the effect display means (effect display device 27) provided in the gaming machine. It is desirable to have a certain meaning such as production description, slogan, motto, etc.) ”“ Background design ”“ Character design ”“ Live action video ”etc. These“ pseudo design ”“ character ”“ background design ” Display effect elements such as “character design” and “live-action video” can be generally regarded as “effect design”.

  In addition, as the “sound production element”, for example, “music”, “sound effects”, “words” that can be heard by the player and output from sound output means (speakers SP1 to SP4) provided in the gaming machine Etc. can be illustrated. In addition, as the “light emitting effect element”, for example, light that is visible to the player emitted by the light emitting means provided in the “front frame 4” or “game board 10” that constitutes the gaming machine, or that the player can visually recognize Illustrative examples of light emission are given. Furthermore, examples of the “movable effect element” include an action that can be visually recognized by the player, which is executed using the movable accessory means provided in the “front frame 4” or the “game board 10”. The “effect element” for realizing the symbol variation effect may be a combination of a plurality of effect elements. For example, a mode in which light is emitted while a movable unit having a light emitting unit is moved, a mode in which a sound effect is produced while a movable unit having a sound output unit is movable, and the like can be exemplified.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 5, a first auxiliary symbol display area A that is variably displayed in conjunction with a first special symbol display unit 62a described later at a position on the right end side near the lower edge on the display screen 27a. And a second auxiliary symbol display area B that is variably displayed in conjunction with a second special symbol display unit 62b described later. In these auxiliary symbol display areas A and B, after the auxiliary symbol using the mosaic pattern is displayed in a variable manner in conjunction with the corresponding special symbol display portions 62a and 62b (first special symbol and second special symbol). The variable display is stopped simultaneously with the corresponding special symbol display parts 62a and 62b. When the variable display is stopped, the stop symbol of the auxiliary symbol is confirmed and displayed, and the result of the determination of success / failure is displayed based on the stop symbol. However, since there are many types of stop symbols, and each stop symbol is misleading, the player can understand the meaning of the stop symbol (whether it is a big hit, miss, probability change big hit, etc.) Have difficulty. Further, the content specified by the stop symbol that is fixedly displayed in the auxiliary symbol display areas A and B is specified by the stop display of the corresponding special symbol display portions 62a and 62b (first special symbol and second special symbol). The content is the same as the content.

  In addition, as shown in FIG. 5, a first reserved display area (D1, D2, D3, D4) is provided at a position on the upper side near the left edge of the display screen 27a, and above the right edge. The second reserved display area (E1, E2, E3, E4) is provided at the position on the side. In the first hold display area (D1 to D4), the number of holds (hereinafter referred to as “first hold number”) related to the “first special symbol” generated due to winning in the first start winning device 17a. “4” is displayed as the upper limit number, and in the second hold display area (E1 to E4), the number of holds (hereinafter referred to as “the second special symbol” caused by winning to the second start winning device 17b) "Second hold number") is displayed with "4" as the upper limit number. Note that a display unit for displaying the first hold number and a display unit for displaying the second hold number can be provided outside the display screen 27a. Further, in the following description, a game ball winning in the first start winning device 17a and a game ball winning in the second start winning device 17b may be referred to as “start winning”.

  The first hold display area (D1 to D4) has a configuration in which the first display unit D1, the second display unit D2, the third display unit D3, and the fourth display unit D4 are arranged from the bottom to the top. Prepare. The second hold display area (E1 to E4) also includes a first display unit E1, a second display unit E2, a third display unit E3, and a fourth display unit E4 arranged from below to above. It has a configuration. Each display unit (D1 to D4, E1 to E4) can display a graphic with a sphere (perfect circle).

  Any of the hold display areas (D1 to D4, E1 to E4) won the start winning devices 17a and 17b, but the number of game balls that have not yet been digested (that is, the number of hold) It is displayed by the number of “D1 to D4, E1 to E4”, and each time an undigested game ball is digested, the number of “undigested game balls” (the number of holds) is sequentially decremented and displayed. is there. Specifically, when the number of holdings is “1”, only the display part (D1, E1) with subscript 1 is used, and when the number of holdings is “2”, the display part with subscript 1 ( D1, E1) and the display part (D2, E2) with the subscript 2 are used. Furthermore, when the number of reservations is “3”, display units other than the display unit with subscript 4 (D1 to D3, E1 to E3) are used, and when the number of reservations is “4”, all display units ( D1-D4, E1-E4) are used. In addition, when the number of holdings decreases from “4” to “3”, the use of the display part (D4, E4) with the subscript 4 is stopped, and when the number of holdings decreases from “3” to “2”, The use of the display part (D3, E3) with the subscript 3 is stopped. In addition, when the number of holds decreases from “2” to “1”, the use of the display part (D2, E2) with the subscript 2 is stopped, and when the number of holds decreases from “1” to “zero”, The use of all the display units (D1 to D4, E1 to E4) is to be stopped. The “undigested game balls (holding balls)” related to each special symbol are won in the start winning devices 17a and 17b, but the symbol changing game accompanying the winning is performed in the corresponding special symbol display units 62a and 62b. Refers to a non-playing game ball.

  The first start winning device 17a is a non-variable (fixed) start winning device and has a pocket shape with an opening (game ball receiving port) opened above. This opening (game ball receiving port) constitutes a first starting port. Since the opening (first start port) is located substantially vertically below the center of the stage portion 21p (rolling surface), the game ball falling from the center has the opening (first start). The probability of winning the first start winning device 17 is increased. In addition, a start winning detection switch 17s (see FIG. 9) for detecting the passage of the game ball is disposed inside the first start winning device 17. In addition, the size of the opening (first start port) of the first start winning device 17a is set to allow passage of one game ball, and the size is not enlarged or reduced. . For this reason, the winning possibility of the game ball to the first start winning device 17a is fixed.

  The second start winning device 17b is a variable (open / close) start winning device, and is disposed immediately below the first start winning device 17a. As shown in FIG. 7 (a), the second start winning device 17b is mounted on the front surface of the mounting plate 17c and the mounting plate 17c fixed to the game board body 10A by screws, and the second starting winning device 17b. A normal electric accessory 17d that constitutes the inlet side portion and an obstruction member 17k attached to the front surface of the mounting plate 17c.

  The ordinary electric accessory 17d is a so-called tulip-shaped pair of movable wing pieces 17e, 17e and an ordinary electric accessory solenoid 17c for operating the pair of movable wing pieces 17e, 17e (see FIG. 9). ). Among these, the movable blade pieces 17e, 17e can be opened to the left and right so that the upper end sides are separated from each other around the lower support shaft. When the movable wing pieces 17e and 17e are in a closed state (first state) where the movable wing pieces 17e and 17e are erected, the distance between the upper ends of the movable wing pieces 17e and 17e is reduced. Further, when the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 17c is driven and the movable wing pieces 17e and 17e are tilted so that the upper end sides are separated from each other with respect to the lower end side axis, the upper end portions of the movable wing pieces 17e and 17e. The interval between them is enlarged, and an open state (second state) is established. Note that the game ball receiving port formed between the upper ends of the movable wing pieces 17e and 17e constitutes the second starting port.

  The obstruction member 17k is disposed vertically above the ordinary electric accessory 17d. In addition, a start winning detection switch 17t (see FIG. 9) for detecting the passage of the game ball is disposed inside the second start winning device 17b.

  As shown in FIG. 7A, when the second start winning device 17b is in the closed state (first state), one game ball passes between the upper ends of the pair of movable wing pieces 17e, 17e. An allowable space K1 is formed, but an obstacle member 17K is disposed vertically above the space K1. For this reason, it is impossible for the game ball to win the second start winning device 17b in the closed state (first state). On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 7B, when the second starting prize-winning device 17b is in an open state (second state) and the pair of movable blade pieces 17e, 17e are opened to the left and right, the movable blade pieces 17e, 17e The interval K1 between the upper end portions (that is, the full left and right width of the second starting port) is larger than the full left and right width of the obstacle member 17K. For this reason, it is possible for the game balls that have passed through the left and right of the obstacle member 17K to win the second start winning device 17b.

  In the gaming machine 1, when the second start winning device 17b is in the open state (second state), the game balls flowing down the game area 11 can win the second start winning device 17b. Then, when the gaming mode of the gaming machine 1 becomes the open extension mode (described later) and the time for the second start winning device 17b to be in the open state becomes long, the probability that the game ball wins the second start winning device 17b is the first. The probability of winning the 1-start winning device 17a is much higher. In this embodiment, the opening time of the second start winning device 17b in the open extension mode is set to “5 seconds”, and the opening time of the second start winning device 17b in the non-open extension mode (normal opening mode) is set to “0”. .2 seconds ".

  On the other hand, as described above, when the second start winning device 17b is in the closed state (first state), it is impossible for the game ball to win the second start winning device 17b. When is not in the open extension mode, the probability that the game ball wins the second start winning device 17b is much lower than the probability that the game ball wins the first start winning device 17a. That is, when the gaming mode of the gaming machine 1 becomes the open extension mode, the case where the gaming ball wins the first start winning device 17a becomes a rare case, and when the gaming mode of the gaming machine 1 is not the opening extension mode, the gaming ball is the first The case that wins the 2-start winning device 17b is a rare case.

  As shown in FIG. 4, a large winning device 31 is disposed below the second start winning device 17b. The special winning device 31 includes a mounting plate portion 31k attached to the front surface portion 10a of the game board 10. The mounting plate portion 31k is provided with an opening having a substantially band shape in a substantially central portion in a state of passing through the front and back, and the opening constitutes a big prize opening 31a. The rear end portion of the grand prize winning port 31a is connected to a “large prize winning prize winning passage (not shown)”. In addition, the “Grand Prize Entrance Award Passage” is a passage for allowing a game ball to win from the Grand Prize Exit 31a to pass through, and the game ball that has won the Grand Prize Exit 31a passes through the Grand Prize Exit Award Passage and then plays this game. It is discharged outside the machine 1.

  The grand prize winning device 31 includes an opening / closing plate 31b for opening / closing the grand prize winning port 31a, a grand prize winning solenoid 31c (see FIG. 9) for driving the opening / closing plate 31b, and a prize winning passage winning path. A special winning opening winning detection switch 31s (see FIG. 9) provided in the middle of the route or in the route terminal unit is provided. When the open / close plate 31b is in a standing posture, the open / close plate 31b closes the large winning opening 31a to be in a closed state (first state). Is impossible. On the other hand, when the opening / closing plate 31b is tilted forward with its lower end portion as a fulcrum and assumes a forward leaning posture, the special winning opening 31a is opened to be in an open state (second state), and the rear surface portion of the opening / closing plate 31b. The (rear portion) flows down the game area 11 and constitutes a guide unit that guides the game ball that has reached the prize winning device 31 to the prize winning opening 31a.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the lower display device 60 is arranged on the left side of the big winning device 31. As shown in FIG. 8A, the lower display device 60 includes a mounting plate 61 that is attached to the front surface of the game board main body 10A. The mounting plate 61 includes a first special symbol display unit 62a, a second special symbol display unit 62b, a normal symbol display unit 63, a first special symbol hold display unit 64a, and a second special symbol hold display. A part 64b, a normal symbol hold display part 65, and the like are provided. The first special symbol display unit 62a and the second special symbol display unit 62b constitute a specific example of “special symbol display means”.

  As shown in FIG. 8A, each of the first special symbol display unit 62a, the second special symbol display unit 62b, and the normal symbol display unit 63 is configured using a “7-segment display”. Among these, in the first special symbol display unit 62a, a first special symbol (determination symbol) indicating a result of the determination of success / failure executed due to the detection of the game ball by the first start opening winning detection switch 17s. Then, stop display after changing display. Further, in the second special symbol display unit 62b, a second special symbol (determination symbol) indicating a result of the success / failure determination executed due to the detection of the game ball by the second start opening winning detection switch 17ts, Stop display after changing display. In addition, the content of the display result of the 1st special symbol display part 62a and the 2nd special symbol display part 62b is mentioned later. In addition, the result of the symbol variation game displayed as a result of the first special symbol display unit 62a and the second special symbol display unit 62b (result of determination of success / failure) and the display result of the symbol variation effect display displayed on the effect display device 27 ( It is assumed that the determination result is a match.

  As shown in FIG. 8A, the normal symbol display unit 63 is constituted by a “7-segment display”, and the symbol variation start condition is caused by the game ball passing through any of the normal symbol operation gates 16. When established, the normal symbol variation display is started. In this normal symbol variation display, the normal symbol display section 63 displays the arithmetic numbers from “0” to “9” in this order, and then again displays the arithmetic numbers from “0” to “9”. It consists of “circular display” that repeats the display in order. When the execution time of the normal symbol variation display elapses, the normal symbol is stopped and displayed, and the stop display is executed for a predetermined time. At this time, when the stopped normal symbol is an "odd number", the symbol corresponds to a normal symbol hit symbol, and when the stopped symbol is an "even digit", the symbol is an off-normal symbol symbol. Applicable. The lottery means for performing the lottery to determine whether or not the ordinary electric accessory 17d should be opened is constituted by a main control unit 200A described later.

  The first special symbol hold display unit 64a and the second special symbol hold display unit 64b are each configured by using two LEDs, and display the so-called “number of hold for special symbols” with an upper limit of 4 each. is there. That is, the first special symbol hold display unit 64a displays the number of game balls that have won the first start winning device 17a but cannot be digested yet (that is, the number of holds) as four upper limit numbers, Each time an undigested game ball (hold) is digested, the number of undigested game balls (that is, the number of reserves) is sequentially decremented and displayed. The second special symbol hold display section 64b displays the number of game balls that have won the second start winning device 17b but cannot be digested yet (that is, the hold number) as an upper limit number of four, Each time an undigested game ball (hold) is digested, the number of undigested game balls (that is, the number of reserves) is sequentially decremented and displayed. Here, the “undigested game ball (that is, hold)” related to the special symbol (the first special symbol and the second special symbol) is awarded to the start winning device (17a or 17b), but the special symbol display section ( 62a or 62b) indicates a game ball in which the display of the result of the success / failure determination associated with the winning and the change display preceding this are not made.

  The normal symbol hold display unit 65 is also configured by using two LEDs and passes through the normal symbol operation gate 16, but the number of game balls still undigested (holding number) is displayed with the upper limit being four. Each time an undigested game ball is digested, the number of undigested game balls (reserved number) is sequentially decremented and displayed. Here, the “undigested game ball (holding ball)” related to the normal symbol has passed through the normal symbol operation gate 16, but the normal symbol display unit 63 displays the result of the lottery associated with the passage (stop of the normal symbol) Display) and game balls that are not preceded by a change display (in this embodiment, display using a 7-segment display).

  The first special symbol hold display unit 64a, the second special symbol hold display unit 64b, and the normal symbol hold display unit 65 display the number of holds in the same manner. That is, (a) two LEDs are turned off to indicate that the “hold number” is “zero”, and (b) one LED is turned off while one LED is turned on, and “hold number”. Is “1”, (c) two LEDs are lit and “holding number” is “2”, (d) one LED is blinking while one LED is blinking It is turned on to indicate that the “holding number” is “3”, and (e) two LEDs are blinked to indicate that the “holding number” is “4”. The display content of the first hold display area (D1 to D4) corresponds to the display content of the first special symbol hold display section 64a, and the display content of the second hold display area (E1 to E4) is the first. 2 corresponds to the display content of the special symbol hold display section 64b.

  Returning to FIG. 4, the three general winning devices 40, 41, 43 are arranged on the left and right of the main accessory device 20. In each of the general winning devices 40, 41, 43, general winning detection switches 40s, 41s, 43s (see FIG. 8) for detecting the winning of the game ball are arranged. Further, an out port 18 is provided below the game board 10. Further, a back ball preventing member (not shown) is provided below the out port 18. And the game ball which returned without reaching the game area 11 is prevented from returning to the launch position again.

(2) Configuration of Control Circuit Next, the configuration of the control circuit of the gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. The control circuit of the gaming machine 1 includes a main control unit 200A and a plurality of sub control units (220A, 240A, 260A). That is, the main control unit 200A that is configured using the main control board 200 and controls the basic progress of the game and whether or not the prize ball is involved, and a plurality of sub-control units (220A, 240A, 260A) I have.

  The sub-control unit is configured using (a) the sub-control board 220, display effect, sound effect (effect sound, etc.), light emission effect (LED lighting / flashing, etc.), movable effect (movable accessory, etc.) ), The sub-control unit 220A that controls various effects, (b) the effect display control unit 222A configured using the effect display control board 222, and (c) the payout control board 240. A payout control unit 240A that controls the operation of paying out a rental ball and a prize ball, and (d) a launch control unit 260A that is configured using the launch control board 260 and that controls the game ball launch. The sub-control unit includes a primary sub-control unit (220A, 240A) directly connected to the main control unit 140 and a first control unit 200A connected to the main control unit 200A via the primary sub-control unit. There is a secondary sub-control unit (260A).

  The control board (200, 220, 240, 260) constituting these control units (200A, 220A, 240A, 260A) is a CPU that executes various logical operations and calculation operations, and various programs and data executed by the CPU. ROM in which the CPU is stored, the RAM in which the CPU stores temporary data when the program is executed, the peripheral device interface (PIO) for exchanging data with the peripheral device, and the clock for the CPU to perform operations are output Various peripheral LSIs are connected to each other via a bus, such as an oscillator that performs CPU, a watchdog timer that monitors CPU runaway, and a CTC (counter timer circuit) that periodically generates an interrupt signal. Note that the direction of the arrow in FIGS. 9 to 11 represents the direction of inputting or outputting data or signals. In FIG. 9, only the CPU 201, RAM 202, and ROM 203 mounted on the main control board 200 are shown. The PIO mounted on the main control board 200 and further the CPU mounted on another control board. Further, illustration of RAM, ROM, etc. is omitted.

  The main control unit 200A (main control board 200) detects game ball detection signals from the normal symbol operation gate passage detection switch 16s, the start opening winning detection switch 17s, the general winning detection switches 40s and 41s, the big winning opening winning detection switch 31s, and the like. And determining whether or not the basic progress of the game and the winning ball are involved, the sub control unit 200A (sub control board 220), the payout control part 240A (payout control board 240), the firing control part 260A (launching) Various signals (commands) described later are output toward the control board 260) and the like. The main control unit 200A (main control board 200) is also connected to a count switch 8s that detects a game ball fired from the launcher unit.

  Further, the main control unit 200A (main control board 200) directly controls these operations by outputting signals to the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 17c, the big prize opening solenoid 31c, and the lower display device 60. That is, the main control unit 200A (main control board 200) functions as a success / failure determination unit that performs a determination of success / failure, a variation pattern determination unit, a random number acquisition unit, an acquired random number storage unit, and a big hit game execution unit that executes a big hit game. become. Further, predetermined signals (commands) determined by the CPU 201 constituting the main control unit 200A (main control board 200) are transmitted to the sub control board 220 and the payout control board 240, respectively.

  When the sub-control unit 220A (sub-control board 220) receives various signals (commands) from the main control unit 200A (main control board 200), it analyzes the contents of the signals (commands) and plays games according to the results. The production of. That is, the sub-control unit 220A (sub-control board 220) controls the game effects based on the control signal from the main control unit 200A (main control board 200). As shown in FIG. 10, the sub-control unit 220A (sub-control board 220) includes an effect display control unit 222A (effect display control board 222), an amplifier board 224, a decoration drive board 226, and an effect button board 228. And are electrically connected to each other. The sub control board 220 includes a CPU 220a, a RAM 220b, and a ROM 220c. Further, the sub-control unit 220A (sub-control board 220) functions as “symbol change effect display means”, “change pattern prior determination means”, and “notice display means”.

  The CPU 220a of the sub control board 220 receives each control signal from the main control board 200 and controls each board such as the effect display control board 222, the amplifier board 224, the decoration drive board 226, and the effect button board 228. The ROM 220b stores data (especially information related to game decoration) necessary for controlling each board. The CPU 220a receives a display control command (that is, a display control signal) sent from the main controller 200A (main control board 200) and analyzes it according to a program stored in the ROM 220b. Then, the CPU 220a configuring the sub-control unit 220A (sub-control board 220) can display a predetermined display control command determined by the CPU 220a or a display control command that has been transmitted from the main control unit 200A (main control board 200). Is transmitted to the effect display control unit 222A (effect display control board 222).

  As shown in FIG. 11, an effect display control board 222 includes a CPU 222a, a control ROM 222b, a control RAM 222c, a VDP (video display processor) 222d, a work RAM 222e, a display ROM (character ROM) 222g, and a video. A RAM 222h is mounted. In addition, an effect display device 27 is electrically connected to the VDP 222d.

  The CPU 222a receives various display control signals (commands) transmitted from the sub-control board 220 and analyzes the received signals (commands) according to a program stored in the control ROM 222b. Then, the CPU 222a transmits the analysis result to the VDP 222d. The control ROM 222b stores various image display control programs according to the gaming state of the gaming machine 1, and the control RAM 222c is provided with a storage area, a work area, and the like for temporarily storing various data. ing. Further, the display ROM 222g stores data related to display of various effect symbols displayed on the display screen 27a of the effect display device 27 (eg, pseudo symbol data that is variably displayed).

  The VDP 222d reads the data stored in the effect display ROM 222g based on the “analysis result” by the CPU 222a, generates image data in the work RAM 222e based on the read data, and temporarily stores it in the video RAM 222h. Thereafter, the image data stored in the video RAM 222h is loaded on the signal (RGB image signal) from the transmission unit 222k and transmitted to the effect display device 27.

  Speakers SP1 to SP4 that output predetermined sound effects are electrically connected to the amplifier board 224. The decoration driving board 226 is connected to various LED boards on which various decorative LEDs (lamps) provided on the front frame 4, the game board 10, and the like, and decorative (production) actuators are connected. The decoration driving board 226 receives a signal from the sub-control board 220A and performs control related to game decoration.

  As shown in FIG. 9, a relay terminal plate, a launch control unit 260A, a lower pan full tank switch 6s, and the like are connected to the payout control unit 240A. The payout control unit 240A is connected to a payout motor 109m, a front payout switch 109a, and a rear payout switch 109b constituting a game ball payout device (payout device) 109 via a relay terminal plate. Further, the main control unit 200A is connected to the payout control unit 240A so as to be capable of bidirectional communication.

  The payout control unit 240A is responsible for various types of control related to so-called ball rental and prize ball payout. For example, when the player operates the lending button 5c or the return button 5q, the operation signal is transmitted from the ball lending display board 410 to the payout control board 240 via the relay terminal board, and the payout motor 109m is based on the operation signal. A drive signal for driving the game ball is transmitted to the game ball payout device (payout device) 109 (the payout motor 109m).

  When the main controller 200A outputs a prize ball payout command, the payout control part 240A receives this command and outputs a drive signal to the payout motor 109m to pay out the prize ball. The game balls to be paid out are detected by two payout switches (the front payout switch 109a and the rear payout switch 109b) and are input to the payout control unit 240A. Further, the number of prize balls paid out is also detected by the count switch 109c and counted by the main controller 200A.

  Next, the input / output relationship of signals or commands to the sub-control unit 220A (sub-control board 220) will be described. As described above, the sub-control unit 220A (sub-control board 220) is connected to the effect display control board 222 and various boards such as the amplifier board 224, the decoration drive board 226, and the effect button board 228. Further, as described above, when the sub-control unit 220A receives various effect commands (display control commands, etc.) from the main control unit 200A, the sub-control unit 220A interprets the content of the command and (a) the effect display device 27 Specific display contents, (b) sound effects output from the speakers SP1 to SP4, and (c) various LEDs mounted on various LED boards 4b to 4h, 4j to 4r, and other lamps The specific mode of lighting or blinking is determined.

  Next, a drive signal (various symbol control commands) of the effect display device 27 is output to the effect display control unit 222A to perform variable display and stop display of effect symbols (pseudo symbols, background symbols, character symbols, etc.). At this time, the display data (still image data, moving image data, etc.) of the displayed effect symbols (pseudo symbol, background symbol, character symbol, live-action image, etc.) is displayed on the effect display device 27 or the effect display control board 222. The data stored in the display ROM (not shown) built in is used.

  Sound effects are output from the speakers SP <b> 1 to SP <b> 4 by outputting sound signals to the amplifier substrate 224 in accordance with the pseudo symbol variation display and stop display. In addition, by supplying a signal to the decorative drive board 226 and outputting drive signals of the various LED lamps 4b to 4h) from the decorative drive board 226, various lamps (LEDs, etc.) can be turned on and blinked. Control. Further, when the player operates the effect button SW provided on the front side of the upper plate member 5, this operation signal is supplied to the sub-control unit 220A. The sub-control unit 220A is configured to reflect the operation result on various effects including the effect display device 27 based on the supplied operation signal.

  Next, a configuration for storing “information generated based on start winning (holding information)” will be described with reference to FIG. That is, the RAM 202 mounted on the main control board 200 includes a first acquired random number memory 202a, a second acquired random number memory 202b, a first reserved number memory 202c, a second reserved number memory 202d, and a first pre-determination. A result memory 202e and a second prior determination result memory 202f are provided. The RAM 220b mounted on the sub control board 220 includes a first acquired random number information memory 221b, a second acquired random number information memory 222b, a first reserved number information memory 223b, a second reserved number information memory 224b, A first preliminary determination result information memory 206b and a second preliminary determination result information memory 207b are provided. Hereinafter, the “effective start prize” refers to a start prize that occurs in a state where the corresponding hold number (first hold number or second hold number) is not the upper limit number.

  When an effective start winning for the first start winning device 17a is generated, a lottery random number corresponding to the start winning prize (hereinafter, also referred to as a “first lottery random number”) is acquired. One lottery random number is stored in the first acquired random number memory 202a in a shift memory format, and a value indicating the first reserved number is cumulatively stored (added and stored) in the first reserved number memory 202c. Here, as shown in FIG. 13A, the “first lottery random number” includes “a winning determination random number for determining whether or not it is a big hit (hit lottery random number)”, “a big winning symbol (special symbol) ) Symbol determination random number for determining ”,“ Variation pattern random number for determining variation pattern ”,“ Reach random number for determining whether to execute reach ”,“ Step-up notice during symbol variation, In-variable notice random numbers for deciding whether or not to execute a notice-in-change effect such as a cut-in notice or a reach notice is included. The during-change notice effect is performed as part of the symbol change effect display performed by the symbol change effect display means of the present invention, and is different from the notice display performed by the notice display means of the present invention.

  In addition, when the first lottery random number is stored in the first acquired random number memory 202a, the CPU 201 constituting the main control board 200 generates a pre-determination regarding the determination of success / failure and a pre-determination regarding the big hit symbol (special symbol) (a big hit is generated). And the result of these prior determinations (hereinafter referred to as “first preliminary determination”) is stored in the first preliminary determination memory 202e in a shift memory format. Accordingly, the first start winning command is transmitted from the main control board 200 to the sub-control board 220.

  Here, as shown in FIG. 13B, the first start winning command based on the start winning for the first start winning device 17a is “information that can specify the result of the first pre-judgment” and “variation pattern”. Commands indicating "information that can specify random numbers", "information that can specify reach random numbers", "information that can specify floating random numbers during change", "information that can specify the number of first hold after the start winning" It is. The “information that can identify the variation pattern random number” included in the first start winning command corresponds to the variation pattern (effect pattern) identified by the variation pattern designation command included in the variation start command described later. It is. When receiving the first start winning command, the sub-control board 220 stores information indicating the result of the first preliminary determination (first preliminary determination result information) in the first preliminary determination result information memory 226b in a shift memory format. In addition, each piece of information specifying the first lottery random number (variation pattern random number, reach random number, changing notice random number) other than the “first determination random number and the first symbol determination random number” is stored in the first acquired random number information memory 221b. Further, the value of the first hold number stored in the first hold number information memory 223b is incremented by “+1”. However, unlike the present embodiment, the command indicating the first hold number after the start winning to the first start winning device 17a may be a separate command. In addition, as the first prior determination, the CPU 201 performs not only the determination of success / failure and the prior determination regarding the jackpot symbol, but also the prior determination regarding the variation pattern, the prior determination regarding whether or not the reach is performed, and the prior determination regarding whether or not the notice effect during the change is performed, A command indicating the result of each preliminary determination may be transmitted to the sub-control board 220, and information relating to the result of each preliminary determination may be stored on the sub-control board 220 side.

  When an effective start winning for the second start winning device 17b is generated, a random number for lottery (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as “second random number for lottery”) corresponding to this is acquired, and the main control board 200 performs this first operation. 2 random numbers for lottery are stored in the second acquired random number memory 202b in a shift memory format, and a value indicating the second reserved number is cumulatively stored (added and stored) in the second reserved number memory 202d. Here, as shown in FIG. 13 (a), the “second lottery random number” is similar to the first lottery random number, “a winning determination random number (big winning lottery random number) for determining whether it is a big hit or not. ", A symbol determination random number for determining a jackpot symbol (special symbol)", a "variation pattern random number", a "reach random number", a "prediction random number during variation", and the like.

  Further, when the second random number for lottery is stored in the second acquired random number memory 202a, the CPU 201 constituting the main control board 200 generates a pre-determination regarding the determination of success / failure and a pre-determination regarding the big hit symbol (special symbol) (a big hit is generated). And the result of these preliminary determinations (hereinafter referred to as “second preliminary determination”) is stored in the second preliminary determination memory 202f in a shift memory format. Along with this, a second start winning command is transmitted from the main control board 200 to the sub-control board 220.

  Here, as shown in FIG. 13B, the second start winning command based on the start winning for the second start winning device 17b is “information for specifying the result of the second pre-judgment” and “variation pattern”. Commands indicating "information that can specify random numbers", "information that can specify reach random numbers", "information that can specify floating random numbers during change", "information that can specify the number of second hold after the start prize", etc. It is. The “information that can identify the variation pattern random number” included in the second start winning command corresponds to the variation pattern (effect pattern) identified by the variation pattern designation command included in the variation start command described later. It is. Then, when receiving the second start winning command, the sub-control board 220 stores information indicating the result of the second preliminary determination (second preliminary determination result information) in the second preliminary determination result information memory 227b in a shift memory format. In addition, each piece of information for specifying the first lottery random number (variation pattern random number, reach random number, changing notice random number) other than the “first success / failure determination random number and first symbol determination random number” is stored in the second acquired random number information memory 222b. Further, the value of the second hold number stored in the second hold number information memory 224b is incremented by “+1”. However, unlike the present embodiment, the command indicating the second reserved number after the start winning to the second start winning device 17b may be a separate command. In addition, as the second pre-determination, the CPU 201 performs not only a pre-judgment determination and a pre-determination regarding a jackpot symbol, but also a pre-determination regarding a fluctuation pattern, a pre-determination regarding whether or not reach is performed, and a pre-determination regarding whether or not a notice effect during fluctuation is performed A command indicating the result of each preliminary determination may be transmitted to the sub-control board 220, and information relating to the result of each preliminary determination may be stored on the sub-control board 220 side.

  The first acquired random number memory 202a and the second acquired random number memory 202b constitute a specific example of “acquired random number storage means” for storing a lottery random number (acquired random number) acquired based on the start winning prize. The “first random number for lottery” is a general term for random numbers for lottery (acquired random numbers) acquired based on a valid starting prize for the first starting prize-winning device 17a, and the “second random number for lottery” is the second starting prize. It is a general term for lottery random numbers (acquired random numbers) acquired based on a valid start prize for the device 17b. Of the first lottery random number and the second lottery random number, the “variation pattern random number”, the “reach random number”, and the “variation notice random number” constitute a specific example of the “variation determination random number”.

  In addition, the first acquired random number memory 202a, the second acquired random number memory 202b, the first preliminary determination result memory 202e, the second preliminary determination result memory 202f, the first acquired random number information memory 221b, and the second acquired random number information The memory 222b, the first pre-determination result information memory 226b, and the second pre-determination result information memory 227b all have four storage areas “area 0”, “area 1”, “area 2”, and “area 3”. Has an area. The corresponding data can be stored in the order of “Area 0”, “Area 1”, “Area 2”, “Area 3”, and an effective start winning (effective start for the first start winning device 17a). Each time a winning, a valid starting winning for the second starting winning device 17b) occurs, the corresponding data is stored in the shift memory format.

  Further, in the memory that is the target of each random number for lottery (the first random number for lottery and the second random number for lottery), if the data is stored only in the area 0, the random number for the lottery (first lottery) When the random number for use and the random number for the second lottery are digested, “area 0” becomes an empty area. In addition, in the memory that is the target of each lottery random number (the first lottery random number, the second lottery random number), when data is stored in a plurality of areas including the area 0, the target lottery random number Each time (first lottery random number, second lottery random number) is digested, data stored in areas other than area 0 (for example, areas 1 to 3) is shifted by one area toward "area 0". Is done. Here, in this specification, the lottery random numbers stored in the corresponding acquired random number memories (the first acquired random number memory 202a and the second acquired random number memory 202b) are read in order from the first stored random number. The determination of success / failure based on the random numbers for lottery (to be described later) and the symbol variation game based on the determination of success / failure are referred to as “digest random numbers for lottery”. Furthermore, “the time when the lottery random number is digested” can be exemplified by the time when the determination is executed and the symbol variation game is started.

(3) Game flow by gaming machine 1 As described above, in this gaming machine 1, stop display (definite display) of a stop symbol indicating the result of determination of success / failure performed based on the start winning, and before this stop display The variable display performed in stages is executed by two types of symbol display devices, the lower display device 60 and the effect display device 27. Here, the first special symbol (determination symbol) displayed on the first special symbol display unit 62a of the lower display device 60 and the second special symbol (second judgment symbol) displayed on the second special symbol display unit 62b of the lower display device 60 ( The “determination symbol) is“ main symbol ”, and“ stop symbol ”and“ variation time (variation pattern) ”are determined in the main control unit 200A that governs the basic progression of the game.

  In this embodiment, whether or not a game ball is detected by the first start opening winning detection switch 17s (hereinafter referred to as “first start winning”) is determined (hereinafter referred to as “first”). Determination and determination as to whether or not the game ball is detected by the second start opening winning detection switch 17t (hereinafter referred to as “second start winning”) (hereinafter referred to as “second determination”). (2) “Winning determination”) is composed only of “Big winning lottery”, but at least one of the first winning determination and the second winning determination is “Big winning lottery”, and the result of the big winning lottery is off. It may be configured by “small lottery” executed in this case. In addition to the success / failure determination (determination of whether or not to start a special game) related to the big hit or the small hit, as a determination made based on the start winning prize, a round determination for determining the number of rounds of the big hit game, Probability change determination to determine whether or not to start probability change game (high probability state) after the big hit game, time reduction decision to determine whether or not to start short time game (short time state) after the big hit game ends , Open extension determination to determine whether or not to open extended game (open extended state) after the big hit game ends, period determination to determine the execution period of those probability-changing games, short-time games and open extended games, etc. Can be illustrated. Probability games, short-time games, and open-extended games are advantageous games for players, as are big hit games and small hit games. Therefore, big hit games, small hit games, probable games, short-time games, and open extended games. Can be regarded as “special games”. Note that the operation control of the probability changing function for realizing the probability changing game, the time shortening function for realizing the time-saving game, and the action extending function for realizing the operation extension game is performed in the game control process described later by the CPU 201 mounted on the main control board 200. Done in

  On the other hand, the “pseudo symbol” is displayed on the display screen 27a of the effect display device 27, and the variation mode and the stop symbol are controlled by the “sub control unit 220A” that controls the game effect under the control of the main control unit 200A. Is determined. Usually, these “pseudo symbols” symbol variations are executed for the same time as “main symbols”, and the display contents of these “pseudo symbols” stop symbols (big hit, miss etc.) are the first special symbols. It is assumed that there is no contradiction with the display content (big hit, miss, etc.) of the “main symbol” on the display unit 62a or the second special symbol display unit 62b.

  Here, in the gaming machine 1, due to the first start winning, the “special symbol changing game related to the first special symbol” is executed in the first special symbol display unit 62 a, and due to the second starting winning, In the second special symbol display section 62b, the “symbol changing game related to the second special symbol” is executed. In addition, with the execution of “symbol changing game related to the first special symbol” or “symbol changing game related to the second special symbol”, the effect display device 27 executes the symbol change effect. The outlines of “symbol changing game” and “symbol changing effect display” will be described below.

a. Symbol Variation Game “The symbol variation game according to the first special symbol” is composed of the variation display and stop display of the first special symbol, and “The symbol variation game according to the second special symbol” is the variation display and stop of the second special symbol. Composed by display. As shown in FIG. 8 (b), these variable displays are incomplete symbols (hereinafter referred to as “unsatisfied”) in which arithmetic numbers cannot be formed by the 7-segment display that constitutes the corresponding special symbol display section (62a or 62b). The content is to perform "circular display" of a complete symbol). In other words, the content is to “circulate and display” imperfect symbols that are not familiar to the player compared to arithmetic numbers and are difficult to identify and store. Then, the result of the first success / failure determination is displayed by the stop display in the “symbol variable game related to the first special symbol”, and the result of the second success / failure determination is displayed by the stop display in the “symbol variable game related to the second special symbol”. Is done.

  By the way, as shown in FIG. 14 and FIG. 15, when the probability mode of the gaming machine 1 is the low probability mode (normal probability mode), a big hit is shown in both the first and second determinations. The probability that the determination result is derived is about “1/400”. Further, when the probability variation function is operating, that is, when the probability mode of the gaming machine 1 is the high probability mode (when the high probability game is being executed), it is a big hit in both the first and second determinations The probability of deriving the determination result indicating is about “1/40”. Then, when the determination result indicating the big hit is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display unit 62a or the second special symbol display unit 62b, a “hit” is generated, and the big hit game execution means starts operating to execute the big hit game. Is done.

  When the big hit game is started, the main control unit 200A drives and stops the big prize opening solenoid 31c, thereby executing the “opening / closing operation for opening and closing the big prize opening 31a”. Note that while the gaming state is the big hit gaming state, the special symbol (the main symbol) is not displayed in a variable state, that is, the symbol variable game is not executable. On the other hand, when the big hit game “before the big hit gaming state transition” or “after the big hit gaming state ends” is not performed, the state where the special symbol (this symbol) is displayed, that is, the symbol variable game is displayed. It becomes an executable state (design variation game state).

  Here, “opening the grand prize winning device 31” is realized by driving the big prize opening solenoid 31c so that the open / close plate 31b in the standing posture is tilted forward, and the big winning opening 31a is changed to the open state. “Closing the big winning device 31” is realized by stopping the driving of the big winning port solenoid 31c, returning the open / close plate 31b to the standing posture, and returning the big winning port 31a to the closed state. In each round game during the big hit game, an open / close operation is performed for the big prize device 31 to change the big prize opening 31a to the open state only once. When a specified number of game balls (10) enter the big winning opening 31a or when the opening time of the big winning opening 31a reaches the opening limit time (30 seconds or 0.2 seconds), the round The end condition is satisfied, and the running round game (big hit round) is ended. When the opening / closing operation of the big winning device 31 is repeated a plurality of times with a predetermined interval in between, the big hit game is finished.

  In the gaming machine 1, when the gaming state shifts to the big hit gaming state (special gaming state), a “round game” is performed for a predetermined number of times (2 rounds, 8 rounds, or 16 rounds). When the final “round game” is finished, the big hit game is finished. Furthermore, after performing the effect related to the end of the big hit (ending effect), the gaming state is returned to the symbol variation gaming state. In the present embodiment, a “round start designation command” and a “round end designation command” are transmitted from the main control board 200 to the sub control board 220 at each start and end of each round game. Then, the CPU 220a mounted on the sub control board 220 determines the progress status of the currently executed big hit game (round game) based on the “round start designation command” and the “round end command” from the main control board 200. Then, various jackpot game effects according to the progress are executed by the effect display device 27 and the like. The “round start designation command” is a command indicating the start of the round game and the number of rounds of the round game to be started, and the “round end designation command” is a command indicating that the big hit round has ended.

  In the present embodiment, the contents of the jackpot game (round game) to be executed according to the mode of the jackpot symbol that is stopped and displayed (determined display) on the first special symbol display unit 62a or the second special symbol display unit 62b, The gaming state of the gaming machine 1 after the big hit game ends will be different. Hereinafter, this point will be described in detail. Here, in the following description, “16R probability variable big hit” and “16R normal big hit” are big hits that trigger the start of a big hit game (hereinafter referred to as “big hit game A”) in which the round game is “16 rounds”. “8R probability variable jackpot” and “8R normal jackpot” are jackpots that trigger the start of a jackpot game (hereinafter referred to as “jackpot game B”) in which the round game is “8 rounds”. The “2R probability variable jackpot” is a jackpot that triggers the start of a jackpot game (hereinafter referred to as “jackpot game C”) in which the round game is “two rounds”. Furthermore, in any jackpot game, “150” game balls are paid out when a prescribed number (10) of game balls enter the big winning opening 31a in each round game. Then, the planned number of payouts for “big hit game A” in which “16 rounds” of the round game in which the time limit (open time limit) of the big winning opening 31a is “30 seconds” is “2,400” In addition, the number of planned winning balls for “big hit game B” in which “8 rounds” of the same round game is “1,200” is set (see FIGS. 14 and 15). However, the limit time (opening limit time) of the opening time of the big winning opening 31a is set to “0.2 seconds”, and the “big hit game C” payout for “2 rounds” of the round game in which the game ball is difficult to enter is paid out. The planned number of winning balls is “0” (see FIGS. 14 and 15).

  When the determination result indicating “big hit” is derived by the first winning / nothing determination, main control unit 200A determines the type of jackpot (type of jackpot symbol) by random lottery (that is, distribution lottery). Then, as shown in FIG. 14, by the random lottery (distribution lottery), the “big hit type” is “16R normal big hit”, “8R probability big hit”, “8R normal big hit” and “2R normal big hit”. Is determined. As described above, the random number for performing the “distribution lottery” (hereinafter referred to as “symbol determined random number”) is acquired at the timing when the start prize is generated, as with the success / failure determination random number (such as a big hit lottery random number). The Note that, even if the result of the first determination is not a big win, the main control unit 200A may determine whether or not to generate a small hit by random number lottery (small hit lottery).

  Even when the determination result indicating “big hit” is derived by the second winning / nothing determination, the main control unit 200A determines the type of jackpot (type of jackpot symbol) by random number lottery (distribution lottery). Then, as shown in FIG. 15, the “big hit type” is set to any one of “16R probability big hit”, “16R normal big hit”, “8R probability big hit”, and “2R normal big hit”. It is determined. The “symbol determined random number” for performing this “distribution lottery” is also acquired at the timing when the start winning is generated, similarly to the success / failure determination random number (such as the big hit lottery random number). Note that, even when the result of the second win / fail determination is not a big hit, the main control unit 200A may determine whether or not to generate a small hit by random number lottery (small hit lottery).

  The “lottery lottery” in the case where the result of the second win / fail decision is “big hit” is more advantageous for the player than the “lottery lottery” in the case of the result of the first hit / fail judgment is “big hit” Sorting is done. In other words, in the present embodiment, the “lottery lottery” in the case where the result of the second winning / failing determination is “big hit” is compared with the “sort lottery” in which the result of the first hit / failure determination is “big hit”. Thus, the probability that a jackpot that can expect a larger amount of prize balls is selected is high (see FIGS. 14 and 15). For this reason, for a player, the first success / failure determination is more continuous in the case of playing a game in which the second success / failure determination is continuously performed (hereinafter referred to as “a game mainly based on the second success / failure determination”). It can be said that the advantage is higher than the case where the game (hereinafter referred to as “the game mainly based on the first win / fail decision”) is performed.

  When “16R probability variation big hit”, “8R probability variation big hit”, or “2R probability variation big hit” occurs, the probability that the result of the determination of success / failure will be a big hit after executing the corresponding big hit game is high. That is, the probability that the result of the first success / failure determination is a big hit and the probability that the result of the second success / failure determination is a big hit are respectively high probabilities. As described above, the gaming state in which the probability that the determination result is a big hit is a high probability is the “high probability mode (high probability state)”. In addition, when “16R probability variation big hit”, “8R probability variation big hit” or “2R probability variation big hit” occurs, a game mode in which the release extension function and the variable time reduction function are activated after executing the corresponding big hit game, that is, “open extension”. Mode.

  This open extension mode is continued until the cumulative number of change displays (symbol change game) executed without generating a big hit after the corresponding big hit game is ended becomes “10,000 times”. However, in consideration of the jackpot winning probability (big hit probability) that is normally determined for gaming machines (pachinko machines), it is practical that the open extension mode continues until the cumulative number of variable displays reaches “10,000 times”. Means that the open extension mode continues until the next big hit. Therefore, hereinafter, the case is simply expressed as “the open extension mode continues until the next big hit occurs” (see FIGS. 11 and 12).

  On the other hand, when “16R normal big hit” or “8R normal big hit” occurs, the probability that the result of the determination is a big hit after the corresponding big hit game is executed is a low probability (normal probability). That is, the probability that the result of the first success / failure determination is a big hit and the probability that the result of the second success / failure determination is a big hit are each low probability (normal probability). In addition, after the corresponding jackpot game is over, the gaming mode of the gaming machine 1 becomes the open extension mode, and the time for the second start winning device 17b to be in the open state becomes long. The release extension mode is continued until the cumulative number of variable displays (symbol variable games) executed without generating a big hit after the corresponding big hit game ends becomes “100”.

b. Outline of Symbol Variation Effect Display Next, the symbol variation effect display performed in the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment will be described. In the following, after explaining the symbol variation effect display without the “notice display” (hereinafter referred to as “normal pattern variation effect display”), the symbol variation effect display with the “notice display” (hereinafter referred to as “special aspect”). Will be described.). The execution time (variation time) of the symbol variation effect display is determined by a variation pattern (described later) determined at the start of the symbol variation game (symbol variation effect display).

b-1. Normal-form symbol variation effect display This normal-variation symbol variation effect display is performed when a game ball enters (starts) the first start winning device 17a (first start port) or the second start winning device 17b (second start port). It is started when the symbol variation execution condition (corresponding condition for determining whether or not the corresponding winning / failure random number is digested) is satisfied on the premise of winning a prize. The symbol variation effect display in the normal mode is performed by the symbol variation effect display means (sub control board 220) while the substantially entire area of the display screen 27a of the effect display device 27 is used as the main display area 27c (see FIG. 5). Hereinafter, after describing common items related to the symbol variation effect display in the normal mode (common items regardless of the variation pattern to be determined), a specific example of the symbol variation effect display executed according to the specific variation pattern will be described.

  In the normal pattern changing effect display, as shown in FIGS. 16A to 16C, the pseudo symbol changing display (pseudo symbol is used in the pseudo symbol display area 27b of the display screen 27a of the effect display device 27. The design variation effect) In addition, since a production background element (at least one of “background design”, “character design”, and “actual video”) is displayed in substantially the entire area of the display screen 27a (not shown), a pseudo design display area The pseudo pattern 27b and the effect background element are displayed in a superimposed state. Then, when the execution time (variation time) of the pseudo symbol variable display has elapsed, the pseudo symbol stop display (determined display) is executed for a certain time (about 0.6 seconds). This pseudo-symbol stop display is to display the determination result of the success / failure determination, similar to the stop display by the lower right display device 60 (the first special symbol display unit 62a or the second special symbol display unit 62b).

  As shown in FIGS. 16A to 16C, on the display screen 27a of the effect display device 27, the pseudo-symbol variable display and stop are displayed while three (3-digit) pseudo-symbols are displayed in the pseudo-symbol display area 27b. Display is made. This pseudo-pattern variation display shows that the numbers from “1” to “9” are displayed in this order, and then the numbers from “1” to “9” are displayed again in this order. It consists of repeated “circular display (scroll fluctuation display)”. In addition, the confirmed symbols that are confirmed and displayed in the pseudo-symbol display area 27b include “a stop symbol that indicates a loss” and “a stop symbol that indicates a big hit”.

  Here, as described above, in the gaming machine 1, as shown in FIG. 14 and FIG. 15, as the “big hit”, the stop symbol (big hit symbol) of the present symbol corresponding to each of a plurality of types of big hits. It is set. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 17A, a pseudo symbol stop symbol (big hit symbol) is defined as follows. That is, the stop symbol indicating the occurrence of “16R probability variation big hit” or “8R probability variation big hit” is configured by arranging three “identical odd numbers” on the display screen 27a. Further, the stop symbol indicating the occurrence of “16R normal big hit” or “8R normal big hit” is configured by arranging three “same even numbers” on the display screen 27a. Furthermore, the stop symbol indicating the occurrence of “2R probability variation big hit” is configured by arranging “different numbers” in ascending order from left to right on the display screen 27a. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 17 (b), the “off symbol” is configured such that at least one of the three pseudo symbols stopped and displayed in the pseudo symbol display area 27b is configured as a numerical symbol different from the others. Of these, the stop symbol indicating the occurrence of “2R probability variation big hit” is excluded.

  In the effect display device 27, when the jackpot symbol shown in FIG. 17A is displayed, as shown in FIG. 16C, reach display is performed in the middle of the variable display which is the premise. In addition, as shown in FIGS. 16A and 16B, when the “stop symbol indicating detachment” is displayed on the effect display device 27, the reach display is not performed in the middle of the variable display that is the premise (hereinafter referred to as “removal display”). , “Simple detachment”) and reach display (hereinafter referred to as “reach detachment”). In addition, the reach display of the present embodiment stops two pseudo symbols, the left pseudo symbol and the right pseudo symbol, of the three pseudo symbols displayed on the display screen 27a of the effect display device 27, and the other one of them. This is an effect display in which the pseudo symbol is changing. Further, in the gaming machine 1, as a display effect (hereinafter referred to as “reach effect”) performed after reach display, a reach effect with simple effect content (hereinafter referred to as “non-developed effect” in which the effect content does not develop during the effect). Etc.), “development effect” in which the content of the effect develops during the effect, and reach effect with the so-called “pseudo continuous notice” (hereinafter referred to as “pseudo-continuous effect”). Execute.

  As described above with reference to FIG. 5, the first auxiliary symbol display area A corresponding to the first special symbol display portion 62a and the second auxiliary symbol display region 62a are located at the right end side near the lower edge on the display screen 27a. A second auxiliary symbol display area B corresponding to the special symbol display part 62b appears. Then, the auxiliary symbol displayed in the auxiliary symbol display area corresponding to the special symbol display unit (62a or 62b) that is executing the symbol variable game is changed to a special symbol (first special symbol or second special symbol). A change display is performed accordingly. Then, when the auxiliary symbol ends the variable display with the end of the variable symbol display, the stop symbol of the auxiliary symbol is fixedly displayed, and the result of the determination of success or failure is displayed based on the stop symbol. Further, in the background screen display area 27c of the display screen 27a, an effect for enlarging the fluctuation of the pseudo pattern is unfolded while displaying background elements such as “background pattern”, “character pattern”, “live-action image” (FIG. 5). See). This effect is generally performed according to the effect pattern determined at the start of the symbol variation effect. The execution time (change time) of the effect display is determined by a change pattern (described later) determined at the start of the symbol change game (symbol change effect display).

  Next, a specific example (hereinafter referred to as specific example 1) of “symbol variation effect display executed by the symbol variation effect display means based on the specific variation pattern” will be described. The symbol variation effect display according to the specific example 1 is executed over “128 seconds” as shown in FIG. In this symbol variation effect display, when the symbol variation execution condition is satisfied, pseudo symbol variation display is started in a state where a predetermined background symbol is displayed in the main display area 27c (a1 in FIG. 19). Then, when 10 seconds have elapsed since the start of the symbol variation effect display, a reach notice is given (a2 in FIGS. 18 and 19). Specifically, this is a notice that the cat character appears in the main display area 27c. Note that the symbol variation effect display from the start of the symbol variation effect display until 10 seconds has passed is referred to as “the symbol variation effect display relating to the A zone”.

  When 10 seconds have passed since the reach notice was made (20 seconds have passed since the start of the symbol variation effect display), reach display is performed (a3 in FIGS. 18 and 19). Note that the symbol variation effect display from the reach notice to the reach display is referred to as “symbol variation effect display related to the B zone”.

  When the reach display is performed, the reach effect is started (a4 in FIGS. 18 and 19). Here, as a reach effect, a character that becomes a friend for the player (a friend character) and a character that becomes an enemy for the player (an enemy character) appear in the main display area 27c, and a battle effect (battle 1) is started. . Then, after the start of the reach effect (reach display), when 27 seconds elapse (47 seconds have elapsed since the start of the symbol change effect display), the character A appears in the main display area 27c (a5 in FIGS. 18 and 19). ). Here, the character A is treated as a “rocket”, and it is notified by this character A that the contents of the reach effect will be changed (developed) soon.

  When 54 seconds have elapsed since the reach display was performed (74 seconds have elapsed since the start of the symbol variation effect display), the clothing of the ally character and the enemy character displayed in the main display area 27c is changed (changed to a space suit). At the same time, the background symbol is changed (changed to the one with the universe), and “Battle 2” is started (a6 in FIGS. 18 and 20). Note that the symbol variation effect display from when the reach effect (reach display) is performed to when the clothing and the background symbol are changed is referred to as a “symbol change effect display relating to the C zone”.

  When 27 seconds have elapsed since the clothes and the background symbol were changed (101 seconds have elapsed since the start of the symbol variation effect display), the character B appears in the main display area 27c (a7 in FIGS. 18 and 20). Here, the character B is treated with “UFO”, and it is notified by this character B that the result of the determination of success / failure will be displayed soon. Then, when 128 seconds elapse from the start of the symbol variation effect display, the result of the determination of success or failure is displayed while displaying the result of the battle between the teammate character and the enemy character, and the symbol variation effect display is ended (FIG. 18). FIG. 20, a8). At this time, when confirming that the result of the success / failure determination is a big hit, displaying the “result that the teammate character wins” as the result of the battle, and confirming that the result of the success / failure determination is out "The result that the enemy character wins" is displayed as the result of the battle. Note that the symbol variation effect display from when the clothes and the background symbol are changed to when the result of the determination is determined and displayed is referred to as “the symbol variation effect display according to the D zone”.

b-2. Special-form symbol variation effect display The special-form symbol variation effect display is executed on the condition that “specific hold (variation pattern random number determined in advance when a specific variation pattern is reached)” is acquired. That is, a predetermined fluctuation pattern random number is acquired, and when a fluctuation pattern determined using the fluctuation pattern random number becomes a specific fluctuation pattern, the predetermined fluctuation pattern random number is executed. For example, if the advance determination is made during the progress of the symbol variation effect display in the normal mode, the sub display area 27e appears on a part of the display screen 27a of the effect display device 27, and the main display area 27c is correspondingly increased. Narrow. Then, in the main display area 27c, the ongoing symbol fluctuation effect display (the symbol fluctuation effect display performed by the symbol fluctuation effect display means) is continued, and the notice display is started in the sub display area 27e. The special pattern design effect display is started. However, the symbol variation effect display in the special mode is the same as the symbol variation effect display in the normal mode except that it is accompanied by the “notice display”. That is, the result of the symbol variation game currently in progress (result of the determination of success / failure) is notified by the symbol variation effect display in progress in the main display area 27c. The contents of the symbol variation effect display in progress in the main display area 27c are the same as those in the normal pattern variation effect display except that the main display region 27e is narrowed.

  Next, a case where the symbol variation effect display according to the specific example 1 is performed as a notice display will be described as an example, and a specific example of the symbol variation effect display in a special mode (hereinafter referred to as “specific example 2”) will be described. In the second specific example, as shown in FIG. 21, during the execution of the symbol variation effect display in the normal mode (b1), a specific hold (a variation pattern random number determined in advance when a specific variation pattern is reached) is started. A case is shown (b2).

  That is, when the specific hold is acquired, the sub display area 27f appears on the lower right side of the display screen 27a, and the range of the main display area 27c is narrowed by the sub display area 27e (b2). The currently displayed symbol variation effect display continues in the narrowed main display region 27c, and the symbol variation effect display related to the acquired specific hold in the sub display region 27e (the symbol variation according to the above-described specific example 1). The effect display is started) as the notice display. In addition, the symbol variation effect display as a notice display is executed from the beginning from the time when the specific hold is acquired, with the same content as the case where the specific variation is displayed as a normal pattern variation effect display at the time of digestion of the specific hold, As long as time permits, it is executed in a complete state (a complete state including all elements related to the symbol variation effect display such as a notice and a reach effect).

Here, in the specific example 2, when a specific hold is acquired, a lottery random number processed prior to the specific hold (a lottery random number acquired and stored prior to the specific hold, ") Shows a state where only two symbol variation effects are stored. That is, “ b 2” in FIG. 21 includes “white” in the first display portion E1 and the second display portion E2 in the second hold display area (E1, E2, E3, E4) (see also FIG. 5). "Circle" is displayed, "double circle" is displayed on the third display section E3, and "dashed circle" is displayed on the fourth display section E4. The “outlined circle” indicates storage of random numbers for lottery (variation pattern random numbers, etc.) corresponding to fluctuation pattern random numbers (hereinafter referred to as “normal hold”) that are determined in advance if the specific fluctuation pattern is not obtained. “Double circle circle” is a display indicating storage of a random number for lottery (variation pattern random number, etc.) corresponding to a specific hold. The “dashed circle” is a display indicating that lottery random numbers (variation pattern random numbers, etc.) are not stored. The pre-hold corresponding to the display on the first display unit E1 is referred to as “first pre-hold”, and the pre-hold corresponding to the display on the second display unit E2 is referred to as “second pre-hold”.

  In the second specific example, the symbol variation effect display started at the time of acquisition of the specific hold further proceeds (b3), and the determination result determination result display (including the symbol stop time of 0.6 seconds) is performed. However, the notice display is continued (b4). Thereafter, the symbol variation effect display related to the first pre-holding is executed (b5 to b7), and the determination result determination result display (including the symbol stop time of 0.6 seconds) is made. Will continue to be displayed (b8). Further, the symbol variation effect display related to the second pre-holding is executed (b9 to b11 in FIG. 22), and the determination result of the determination of the validity (including the symbol stop time of 0.6 seconds) is made (b12). ). Then, when a definite display of the determination result (including the symbol stop time of 0.6 seconds) is made, the specific hold start timing arrives, and the notice display is terminated (b12). At this time, the symbol variation effect display related to the notice display is terminated halfway (the stage before the determination result is confirmed and displayed). In this case, depending on the duration of the notice display, the amount of the symbol variation effect display that the player can visually recognize as the notice display is different (to which character in which zone of A to D can be seen, up to which character It can be visually recognized).

  Then, because it is the timing of the specific hold, the sub display area 27e is deleted from the display screen 27a, the main display area 27c is enlarged to the entire display screen 27a, and the symbol variation effect display related to the specific hold (the pattern of the normal mode) Fluctuation effect display) is executed (A1 to A3).

(5) Command transmission The gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment performs various controls in order to realize the above-described “symbol changing game” and the like. When executing this control, various commands are transmitted from the main control unit 200A (main control board 200) to the sub control unit 220A (sub control board 220). Next, how this command is transmitted will be described with reference to the schematic diagram of FIG.

  The main control unit 200A and the sub control unit 220A are connected by a 9-bit width parallel signal cable. Of these, one bit is allocated for outputting a strobe signal, and the remaining eight bits are allocated for command output. When a command is output from the main control unit 200A to the sub-control unit 220A, first, command data for 8 bits is output to an 8-bit signal cable assigned for command output, and then A 1-bit strobe signal is output. Further, the sub control unit 220A can reliably read the command transmitted from the main control unit 200A by reading the command data at the rising timing of the strobe signal.

  Here, examples of commands output from the main control unit 200A (main control board 200) to the sub control unit 220A (sub control board 220) include those illustrated in FIG. That is, (A) Fluctuation pattern designation command (hereinafter referred to as “CHP”), (B) Special symbol stop information designation command (hereinafter referred to as “CJS”), (C) Start winning command ( Hereinafter, it is expressed as “COR”). The variation pattern designation command is a command indicating the variation pattern (variation time) of the special symbol selected by the main control unit 200A when starting the variation display of the special symbol. The sub control unit 220A (sub control board 220) It can be determined whether or not a specific variation pattern (described later) is selected by this command. Therefore, the variation pattern designation command is a command for starting the variation of the pseudo symbol and designating the display pattern of the pseudo symbol (the effect pattern of the symbol variation effect). In other words, in addition to the special symbol variation time, the “variation pattern” includes the type of effect symbol used in the symbol variation effect display, the presence / absence of execution of the reach effect, the content of the effect when the reach effect is performed (the type of reach effect), the change Whether or not the middle notice effect is executed, the contents of the effect when performing the notice effect during fluctuation (various notice effect type), and the time required from the start to the end of the symbol change effect display (fluctuation time) Various conditions for performing are shown.

(6) Outline of Game Control by Main Control Unit 200A FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing a rough flow of game control processing executed by the CPU 201 mounted on the main control board 200. In this game control process, each process such as a prize ball payout process (S80), a normal symbol game process (S100), a normal electric game game process (S200), a special symbol game process (S300), a big hit game process (S800), etc. Is executed repeatedly. Note that the CPU 201 mounted on the main control board 200 of this embodiment is configured to execute the processing of S80 to S800 in FIG. 24 every time a timer interrupt with a period of 4 msec occurs after the power is turned on. That is, the processing of S80 to S800 in FIG. 24 is repeatedly executed every 4 msec. In each process constituting the game control process, various signals are transmitted to various control boards including the sub-control board 220. By doing so, the game of the entire gaming machine 1 proceeds. Hereinafter, the game control process will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. However, a detailed description of the big hit game process (S800) is omitted among the processes constituting the game control process shown in FIG.

A. Prize ball payout processing (S80)
The CPU 201 mounted on the main control board 200 performs a process of paying out game balls as prize balls (prize ball payout process) (S80). That is, the state of the start opening winning detection switches 17s and 17t, the big winning opening winning detection switch 31s and the general winning detection switches 40s and 41s is detected to determine whether or not a game ball has entered. If a game ball has entered, this information is stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 202 mounted on the main control board 200. Based on the information stored on the RAM 202, a prize ball payout signal is output toward the payout control board 240. If the winning information for the start opening winning detection switches 17s, 17t, etc. has already been stored on the RAM 202, an appropriate payout number including the previously stored information is designated and the payout signal Is output.

  When outputting a payout signal from the main control unit 200A to the payout control unit 240A, first, a strobe signal is output toward the payout control unit 240A (payout control board 240), and then signal data is output. On the other hand, when the CPU mounted on the payout control board 240 constituting the payout control unit 240A receives the payout signal, the CPU interprets the content of the signal and sends a drive signal to the payout motor 109m mounted on the prize ball payout device 109. Is output and award balls are paid out. The prize ball payout device 109 is provided with two payout switches (a front payout switch 109a and a rear payout switch 109b) for detecting a payout game ball. While detecting each one, a process of paying out the number of prize balls designated by the payout signal is performed.

B. Normal symbol game processing (S100)
In the normal symbol game process (S100), the normal symbol display unit 63 starts to display the variation of the normal symbol when the game ball passes through the normal symbol operation gate 16. Then, when the CPU 201 determines that the execution time of the normal symbol variation display has elapsed while repeatedly performing the game control process of FIG. 24, the CPU 201 performs the stop display of the normal symbol stop symbol. Furthermore, when the CPU 201 determines that the stop symbol stop display time (for example, 0.5 seconds) has elapsed while repeatedly performing the game control process of FIG. 24, the stop symbol activates the ordinary electric accessory 17d. It is determined whether the symbol is a symbol to be activated (a normal symbol hit symbol) or a symbol that is not to be activated (a symbol that is out of the normal symbol).

  If the stop symbol is a symbol that activates the normal electric accessory 17d (a normal symbol hit symbol), whether or not the normal electric accessory release extension function is operating (that is, the open extension means is operating). If the opening extension means is in operation, the opening time of the ordinary electric accessory 17d is set to "opening time when the opening extension function is activated (for example, the above-mentioned 5 seconds)" The normal symbol game process (S100) is terminated, and the process returns to the game control process of FIG. On the other hand, when the opening extension means is not in operation, after setting the opening time of the ordinary electric accessory 17d to “opening time when the opening extension function is not operated (for example, 0.2 seconds as described above)”, the normal symbol game process Is finished and the process returns to the game control process of FIG.

  Note that the CPU 201 does not operate the normal electric accessory 17d, does not execute the normal symbol variation display in the normal symbol display unit 63, and does not execute the normal symbol stop display, and further relates to the normal symbol. When it is determined that the number of holds is not “0”, the normal symbol variation display is started. Further, the number of holdings for the normal symbol is “+1” when the game ball passes through the normal symbol operating gate 16 and the number of holdings for the normal symbol is less than a predetermined number (four in this embodiment). It is set to “−1” every time the symbol variation display is started.

C. Normal electric game processing (S200)
FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing an outline of the ordinary electric accessory game process. When the ordinary electric accessory game process is activated while the CPU 201 performs the game control process of FIG. It is determined whether or not it is operating (whether or not the second start winning device 17b is in an open state). If it is determined that the second start winning device 17b is in an open state (S201; YES), the operation time of the ordinary electric accessory 17d (predetermined to maintain the second start winning device 17b in the open state). It is determined whether or not the time has elapsed (5 seconds in the open extension mode and 0.2 seconds in the normal release mode) (S202). If it is determined that the operating time (opening time) has passed the predetermined time (S202; YES), the operation of the ordinary electric accessory 17d is stopped to place the second start winning device 17b in the open state closed ( S206), the ordinary electric accessory game process is terminated.

  However, when the CPU 201 releases the ordinary electric accessory 17d (second start winning device 17b) (S202; NO), a prescribed number (for example, eight) of game balls have entered the second start winning device 17b. If it is determined (S204; YES), even if the aforementioned operating time (opening time) has not reached the predetermined time, the operation of the ordinary electric accessory 17d is stopped (S206), and the ordinary electric accessory game process is terminated. . In the gaming machine 1, when the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 17c is driven during the operation of the ordinary electric accessory 17d, the pair of wing pieces of the second start winning portion 17b constituting the ordinary electric accessory 17d is outward. Rotating, the second start winning device 17b is opened.

D. Special design game processing (S300)
Next, an outline of the special symbol game process will be described with reference to FIGS. When the special symbol game process is activated, as shown in FIG. 26, first, it is determined whether or not a game ball has won the first start winning device 17a or the second start winning device 17b (S301a, S301b). ). Then, when a negative determination is made in the process of S301a and the process of S301b (S301a; NO, S301b; NO), the process directly proceeds to the process after S308 shown in FIG.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that a game ball has won the first start winning device 17a (S301a; YES), the number of first special symbols corresponding to the first starting winning device 17a (first hold number) is a predetermined number. It is determined whether it is less than (less than 4 in this embodiment) (S302a). In the process of S302a, when it is determined that the number is less than the predetermined number (S302a; YES), a first lottery random number (Special Figure 1 lottery random number) related to winning in the first start winning device 17a is acquired (S303a). ). The first lottery random number is stored in the first acquired random number memory 202a (see FIG. 12), and the “first hold number” stored in the first hold number memory 202c is thereby incremented by “+1”. The Hereinafter, winning of a game ball in the first start winning device 17a may be referred to as “first start winning”.

  Here, as the first lottery random number (Special Figure 1 lottery random number) acquired and stored in the process of S303a, (a) first winning / no-going determination, that is, winning of a game ball to the first start winning device 17a (2) First special symbol display (b) First decision symbol display (hereinafter referred to as “Special Figure 1 big hit lottery random number”) used in the case of the big hit lottery executed (hereinafter referred to as “Special Figure 1 big hit lottery”) Fluctuation pattern of a symbol determining random number (special symbol 1 symbol determining random number) for determining a symbol to be stopped and displayed on the part 62a, (c) a first special symbol (a symbol variation effect display corresponding to the first special symbol) Variation pattern random number (special figure 1 fluctuation pattern random number) for determining the value, (d) reach display (reach effect) in the pseudo symbol change display (design change effect display) executed on the display screen 27a of the effect display device 27 Whether to do Reach random number for determining a (special symbol leech random number), and the like (e) variation in variation in notice random number for determining whether to execute a prediction effect (special symbol 1 variation during notice random number). Unlike the present embodiment, when a small lottery (special figure 1 small lottery) is performed due to the winning of a game ball to the first start winning device 17a, the lottery random number acquired in the process of S306a is used. Includes a random number for lottery (hereinafter referred to as “special figure 1 small lottery random number”) used in the “special figure one small lottery”. Also, the determination of the variation pattern based on the special figure 1 random pattern random number is made by determining whether or not the reach display (reach effect) is based on the special figure 1 reach random number, and whether or not there is a preliminary announcement effect during the fluctuation based on the special random number during the special figure 1 change. Since the determination result may be reflected, the special figure 1 reach random number and the special figure 1 changing notice random number are also used for determining the variation pattern of the symbol variation effect display corresponding to the first special symbol. It can be understood as a random number (variation determining random number).

  Following the processing of S303a, the CPU 201 uses the first winning / failing determination random number (special figure 1 big hit lottery random number) acquired in the processing of S303a to make a prior determination (first special lottery lottery) (first figure lottery lottery). (Preliminary determination) is performed, and information indicating the result is stored in the first preliminary determination result memory 202e (S304a). Then, after the first start winning command is transmitted to the sub-control board 220 (S307a), the process proceeds to S308 in FIG. Here, as described above, the first start winning command is information that can specify the result of the first pre-judgment, information that can specify the fluctuation pattern random number, and after the start winning to the first start winning device 17a. This is a command indicating the first number of holds. However, unlike the present embodiment, the command for specifying the first hold number after the start winning to the first start winning device 17a and the command for specifying other information may be different commands.

  Further, when the result of the first winning / failing determination (special figure 1 big hit lottery) becomes the big hit (winning) in the first preliminary determination, “special figure 1 symbol determination random number” is used in the first preliminary determination. The “pre-judgment regarding jackpot symbol” is also executed. Information that can specify the result of the pre-judgment regarding the jackpot symbol is also included in the first start winning command. In this case, the process of S304a is performed when the hold (first lottery random number) is actually processed for each hold (first lottery random number) to be subjected to the prior determination (actually, the symbol variation game is started). In consideration of the gaming state). That is, if the symbol variation game that is started by processing the hold (first random number for lottery) to be pre-determined is performed in the low probability mode, the prior decision regarding the hold (first random number for lottery) is performed. Is executed with reference to the aforementioned “low probability data table”. In addition, if the symbol variation game that is started by processing the hold (first random number for lottery) to be determined in advance is performed in the high probability mode, the preliminary determination related to the hold (first random number for lottery) is performed. Is executed with reference to the aforementioned “high probability data table”.

  Here, the gaming machine 1 includes a first start winning device 17a and a second start winning device 17b as start winning devices, and a first special symbol corresponding to the first start winning device 17a (hereinafter referred to as "Special Figure 1"). And a second special symbol (hereinafter also referred to as “special figure 2”) corresponding to the second start winning device 17b. In the situation where the first lottery random number based on the start winning to the first start winning device 17a and the second lottery random number based on the start winning to the second start winning device 17b are stored, the latter takes precedence. (It will be described later).

  Also, in FIG. 26 to FIG. 30, among the processes performed by the CPU 201, each process (hereinafter referred to as a process related to the special chart 1) executed when a game ball wins the first start winning device 17 a. ) And the same processing among the respective processing (hereinafter referred to as processing related to special figure 2) executed due to the winning of the game ball to the second start winning device 17b, the same number of steps (calculation) Number). Since the process with the same number of steps is basically the same process, one of “process related to special figure 1” and “process related to special figure 2” will be described in the following description. The description of the other may be omitted. In addition, “process for special figure 1” is distinguished by adding “a” in alphabet to “number of steps”, and “process for special figure 2” by adding “b” in alphabet to “number of steps”. There is.

  If it is determined that a game ball has won the second start winning device 17b (S301b; YES), the number of second special symbols corresponding to the second start winning device 17d (second hold number) is a predetermined number. It is determined whether the number is less than (in this embodiment, less than 4) (S302b). In the process of S302b, if it is determined that the number is less than the predetermined number (S302b; YES), the second lottery random number related to the second start winning device 17b is acquired (S303b). This second random number for lottery is stored in the second acquired random number memory 202b described above, whereby the “first hold number” stored in the second hold number memory 202d is “+1”. Hereinafter, winning of a game ball in the second start winning device 17b may be referred to as “second start winning”.

  Here, as the second lottery random number (special figure 2 lottery random number) acquired and stored in the process of S303b, (a) second winning / no-going determination, that is, winning of the game ball to the second start winning device 17b (2) Special symbol display (b) Second special symbol display used in the case of the jackpot lottery executed (hereinafter referred to as “Special Figure 2 Big Bonus Lottery”). The symbol determination random number (special symbol 2 symbol determination random number) for determining the symbol to be stopped and displayed on the part 62b, (c) the variation pattern of the second special symbol (the symbol variation effect display corresponding to the second special symbol) is determined Change pattern random number (special figure 2 fluctuation pattern random number) for performing, (d) reach display (reach effect) in the pseudo symbol change display (symbol change effect display) executed on the display screen 27a of the effect display device 27 Whether or not Reach random number to the constant (special symbol 2 reach random number), and the like (e) variation in variation in notice random number for determining whether to execute a prediction effect (special symbol 2 variation during notice random number). Unlike the present embodiment, when a small lottery (hereinafter referred to as “special drawing 2 small lottery”) due to the winning of a game ball to the second start winning device 17b is obtained in the process of S306b. The lottery random number to be included includes a lottery random number used for the “special drawing 2 small lottery lottery” (hereinafter referred to as “special drawing 2 small lottery random number”). Also, the determination of the fluctuation pattern based on the special figure 2 fluctuation pattern random number is based on the determination result of the reach display (reach effect) based on the special figure 2 reach random number and the presence / absence of the change notice effect based on the special figure 2 changing random number. Since the determination result may be reflected, the special figure 2 reach random number and the special figure 2 changing notice random number are also used for determining the fluctuation pattern of the symbol fluctuation effect display corresponding to the second special symbol. It can be regarded as a random number (variation determining random number).

  Subsequent to the processing of S303b, the CPU 201 uses the second randomness determination random number (special figure 2 big hit lottery random number) acquired in the process of S303b to make a prior determination (second special lottery lottery) regarding the second successful decision (second special lottery lottery). (Preliminary determination) is performed, and information indicating the result is stored in the second preliminary determination result memory 202f (S304b). Then, after the second start winning command is transmitted to the sub-control board 220 (S307b), the process proceeds to S308 in FIG. Here, as described above, the second start winning command is information that can specify the result of the second pre-judgment, information that can specify the variation pattern random number, and after the start winning to the second start winning device 17b. This is a command indicating the second hold number and the like. However, unlike the present embodiment, the command for specifying the second reserved number after the start winning to the second start winning device 17b and the command for specifying other information may be different commands.

  Also in the second pre-determination, if the result of the second win / fail determination (special figure 2 big hit lottery) is a big win (win), the special predetermined figure 2 random number is used in the second pre-determination. The “pre-judgment regarding jackpot symbol” is also executed. Information that can specify the result of the pre-judgment regarding the jackpot symbol is also included in the second start winning command. In this case, the process of S304b is also performed when the hold (second lottery random number) is actually processed for each hold (second lottery random number) that is subject to prior determination (actually the symbol variation game is started). In consideration of the gaming state). That is, if the symbol variation game that is started by processing the hold (second random number for lottery) to be pre-determined is performed in the low-probability mode, the pre-determination regarding the hold (second random number for lottery) is performed. Is executed with reference to the aforementioned “low probability data table”. In addition, if the symbol variation game to be started by processing the hold (second random number for lottery) to be pre-determined is performed in the high probability mode, the preliminary determination relating to the hold (second random number for lottery) Is executed with reference to the aforementioned “high probability data table”.

  In the process of S308, as shown in FIG. 27, it is determined whether or not a big hit game is being executed (S308). Specifically, if the big hit game flag (see the process of S378 in FIG. 28) is set (set to ON), a positive determination is made in the process of S308. The big hit game flag is a flag indicating that the “big hit game execution means” is in operation.

  When the CPU 201 determines that the big hit game is being executed (S308; YES), the special symbol game process is terminated and the process returns to the game control process of FIG. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S308 that the big hit game is not being executed (S308; NO), whether or not the special symbol is fluctuating, that is, one of the first special symbol and the second special symbol is fluctuating. It is determined whether or not (S310). If the special symbol is not fluctuating (S310; NO), it is considered that either the special symbol has not yet fluctuated, or has been stopped and displayed as a stop symbol after the fluctuating display. Therefore, it is determined whether or not it is during the stop display time for displaying the stop symbol of the special symbol (S312). If the special symbol is not variably displayed (S310; NO), and is not within the stop display time during which the special symbol is stopped (S312; NO), whether or not the variable display can be started. Is determined (S314a, S314b). In the present embodiment, the stop display time for displaying the special symbol stop symbol is 0.6 seconds.

  The “condition for starting the variable symbol display of the special symbol” is that either the “first hold number” or the “second hold number” is not “zero”. Then, the CPU 201 of this embodiment preferentially determines whether or not the “second hold number” is “zero” (S314b). That is, when the “second hold number” is not “zero”, the oldest second lottery random number from the “second acquired random number memory 202 b (see FIG. 12)” provided in the RAM 202 mounted on the main control board 200. (Random number for special figure 2 lottery) is read (S316b), and a determination process (second determination process) for the second special symbol is performed (S320b). Note that the second lottery random number (special figure 2 lottery random number) to be read in S316b is acquired in S303b, and is special figure 2 big hit lottery random number, special figure 2 symbol determination random number, special figure 2 changing notice random number , Special figure 2 reach random numbers, special figure 2 fluctuation pattern random numbers, and the like.

  In the second win / fail determination process (S320b), as shown in FIG. 29, it is first determined whether or not the gaming mode of the gaming machine 1 is a high probability mode (S322), and when it is a high probability mode (S322). YES), a determination is made using “high probability data table” and “special figure 2 big hit lottery random number read in the process of S316b” (S324), and the gaming mode of the gaming machine 1 is the low probability mode When it is (normal probability mode) (S322; NO), the determination of success / failure is performed using the “low probability data table” and “the special figure 2 big hit lottery random number read out in the process of S316b” (S326). In the high probability mode, the fluctuation shortening function for shortening the fluctuation time of the special symbol and the normal symbol as compared with the normal is activated, and the opening extension function of the second start winning device 17b (ordinary electric accessory) is activated. (It will be described later.) However, in the high probability mode, the case where the fluctuation shortening function and the opening extension function are not operated can be set separately.

  When the result of the success / failure determination performed in the process of S324 or S326 is a big hit (S330; YES), after setting the big hit flag (set to ON) (S332), the second success / failure determination process (S320b) is terminated. Then, the process proceeds to a variation start process related to the second special symbol (hereinafter referred to as “special symbol 2 symbol variation start process”) (S500b in FIG. 27). Further, when the result of the determination is not good (S330; NO), after setting the “off flag”, that is, the “flag indicating that no big hit has occurred” (set to ON) (S339), 2 The winning / no-go determining process (S320b) is terminated, and the process proceeds to the special figure 2 symbol variation starting process (S500b). Note that the success / failure determination process (S320a; first success / failure determination process) relating to the first special symbol is the most from the “first acquired random number memory 202a (see FIG. 12)” provided in the RAM 202 mounted on the main control board 200. The old first lottery random number (Special Figure 1 big hit lottery random number) is read (S316a), and the same process is performed in accordance with FIG. Note that the first lottery random number read in S316a was acquired in S303a, and is a special figure 1 big hit lottery random number, special figure 1 symbol determination random number, special figure 1 changing notice random number, special figure 1 reach random number, special figure 1 1 includes variation pattern random numbers.

  In the special figure 2 symbol fluctuation start process (S500b), as shown in FIG. 30, first, a fluctuation setting process (S510, S540) and the like are performed based on the result of the second win / fail determination process (S320b). That is, in the process of S502, when it is determined that the result of the second win / fail determination process (S320b) is “big hit” (S502; YES), the process proceeds to S510 and “big hit fluctuation setting process” is performed. In the jackpot variation setting process (S510), based on the result of the determination (symbol determination) using the symbol determination random number (special symbol 2 symbol determination random number) included in the second lottery random number read out in the above-described processing of S316b. (2) After performing the process of determining (selecting) the symbol (big hit symbol) that is stopped and displayed on the special symbol display unit 62b, based on the determined big bonus symbol aspect and the gaming state (gaming mode) of the gaming machine 1, A variation pattern table for determining the variation pattern of the second special symbol is selected. Then, using the selected variation pattern table and the variation pattern random number (special pattern 2 variation pattern random number) included in the second lottery random number read out in the process of S316b described above, the variation pattern of the second special symbol The process of determining (selecting) is performed.

  Also in the special figure 1 symbol variation start process (S500a), as shown in FIG. 30, first, a variation setting process (S510, S540) and the like are performed based on the result of the first winning / failing determination process (S320a). That is, in the process of S502, when it is determined that the result of the first win / fail determination process (S320a) is “big hit” (S502; YES), the process proceeds to S510 and the “big hit fluctuation setting process” is performed. In the big hit variation setting process (S510), based on the result of the determination (symbol determination) using the symbol determination random number (special symbol 1 symbol determination random number) included in the first lottery random number read out in the above-described processing of S316a. 1 After performing the process of determining (selecting) the symbol (big hit symbol) that is stopped and displayed on the special symbol display unit 62a, based on the determined big hit symbol aspect and the gaming state (gaming mode) of the gaming machine 1, A variation pattern table for determining the variation pattern of the first special symbol is selected. Then, using the selected variation pattern table and the variation pattern random number (special variation 1 random pattern random number) included in the first lottery random number read out in the process of S316a described above, the variation pattern of the first special symbol The process of determining (selecting) is performed.

  Here, when determining (selecting) the fluctuation pattern at the time of big hit, if the type of big hit that is generated is “16R probability variable big hit”, “16R normal big hit”, “8R positive variable big hit” or “8R normal big hit” ( Hereinafter, these may be referred to as “big hit with a ball”), and the variation pattern table shown in FIG. 31A is used. Specifically, when the gaming state at the time of determining the variation pattern is a gaming state in which the big hit probability is low probability and normal variation is performed (low probability normal variation mode), the “low probability · In the case of a gaming state (low probability shortening variation mode) in which the variation pattern table in the column “normal” is used and the jackpot probability is low probability and the variation is shortened (low probability shortening variation mode), FIG. A variation pattern table in a column labeled “abbreviated” is used. Further, in the case of a gaming state (high probability shortening variation mode) in which the type of jackpot that is generated is a “hit with exiting ball” and the jackpot probability is high and the variation is shortened, the “ The variation pattern table in the column labeled “High probability / shortening” is used. When the type of jackpot that is generated is “2R probability variable jackpot (no jackpot)”, the variation pattern table of FIG. 31 (b) is used regardless of the gaming state (game mode) of the gaming machine 1. It is done.

  In this embodiment, the fluctuation pattern (big hit fluctuation pattern) defined (stored) in the big hit fluctuation pattern table shown in FIGS. 31A and 31B is a fluctuation pattern for performing the reach effect and the notice effect during fluctuation. . For this reason, when determining the fluctuation pattern at the time of big hit, the contents of the notice effect during change and the reach effect are also determined by determining the change pattern using the change pattern random number. In other words, when determining the variation pattern at the time of the big hit, determination of whether or not to execute the reach effect using the reach random number and determination of whether or not to execute the change notice effect using the changing notice random number are not performed.

  Unlike the present embodiment, when a so-called “latency probability variation jackpot” can occur, there is a case where a gaming state (high probability normal variation mode) in which the jackpot probability has a high probability and performs normal variation may occur. In this case, as the variation pattern table used when the result of the second success / failure determination process (S320b) or the first success / failure determination process (S320a) is a big hit, in addition to the variation pattern table shown in FIG. A variation pattern table for “high probability normal variation mode” is added. In addition to the deviation variation pattern tables shown in FIGS. 32 to 34, the variation pattern table used when the result of the second success / failure determination process (S320b) or the first success / failure determination process (S320a) is out of place. , A deviation variation pattern table corresponding to the “high probability normal variation mode” is added. Further, for convenience of explanation, FIGS. 31 to 34 show a variation pattern table storing a small number of variation patterns. Actually, these variation pattern tables include “variation pattern determination random number values”. A large number of variation patterns (for example, 20 types, 50 types, 100 types) associated with are stored.

  On the other hand, in the process of S502, if it is determined that the result of the second win / fail determination process (S320b) is not “big hit” (S502; NO), the process proceeds to S540 and the “offset fluctuation setting process” is performed. In the deviation variation setting process (S540), the gaming state (game mode) of the gaming machine 1 and the reach random number (special figure 2 reach random number) included in the second lottery random number read out in the process of S316b described above are used. Execution / non-execution of reachable effect determined by using the determined / not-executed reach effect and the changing / notifying random number included in the second lottery random number read out in S316b (see FIG. 2) Based on the above, a variation pattern table for determining the variation pattern of the second special symbol is selected. Then, using the selected variation pattern table and the variation pattern random number (special pattern 2 variation pattern random number) included in the second lottery random number read out in the process of S316a described above, the variation pattern of the second special symbol The process of determining (selecting) is performed. Thereafter, a symbol determination random number is acquired, and a process of determining (selecting) a stop symbol of the second special symbol is performed.

  Also, in the process of S502, when it is determined that the result of the first winning / failing determination process (S320a) is not “big hit” (S502; NO), the process proceeds to S540 and the “offset fluctuation setting process” is performed. In the outlier variation setting process (S540), execution of the reach effect determined using the gaming state (game mode) of the gaming machine 1 and the reach random number included in the first lottery random number read out in the process of S316a described above. Based on the presence / absence and presence / absence of execution of the changing notice effect determined using the changing notice random number (see Fig. 1 changing notice random number) included in the first lottery random number read in the process of S316a. A variation pattern table for determining a symbol variation pattern is selected. Then, using the selected variation pattern table and the variation pattern random number (special pattern 1 variation pattern random number) included in the first lottery random number read out in the process of S316b described above, the variation pattern of the first special symbol The process of determining (selecting) is performed. Thereafter, a symbol determination random number is acquired, and a process of determining (selecting) a stop symbol of the first special symbol is performed.

  The deviation variation pattern table used in the processing of S540 can be selected as follows. For example, based on the reach random number included in the lottery random number (second lottery random number, first lottery random number) read in the process of S316b (see FIG. 27) or the process of S316a (see FIG. 27), the reach is determined. It is determined whether or not the performance is executed. When the gaming state of the gaming machine 1 is the “low probability normal variation mode” and no reach effect is performed, among the change pattern tables indicated as “no reach effect” in FIG. When the variation pattern table corresponding to the number of holdings (the second holding number at the start of variation of the second special symbol, the first holding number at the start of variation of the first special symbol) is set and the reach effect is performed, Thirty-two variation pattern tables labeled “With Reach Production” are set.

  Also, when the gaming state of the gaming machine 1 is “low probability shortening variation mode” and no reach effect is performed, among the variation pattern tables indicated as “no reach effect” in FIG. When the variation pattern table corresponding to the number of holdings (the second holding number at the start of variation of the second special symbol, the first holding number at the start of variation of the first special symbol) is set and the reach effect is performed, 33 variation pattern tables labeled “with reach production” are set.

  Furthermore, when the gaming state of the gaming machine 1 is “high probability shortening variation mode” and no reach effect is performed, among the variation pattern tables labeled “no reach effect” in FIG. When the variation pattern table corresponding to the number of holdings (the second holding number at the start of variation of the second special symbol, the first holding number at the start of variation of the first special symbol) is set and the reach effect is performed, A variation pattern table labeled “With Reach Production” is set.

  Here, among the variation patterns shown in FIGS. 31 to 34, the variation time specified by the variation pattern selected when the variation shortening function is operating is selected when the variation shortening function is not operating. There is a high possibility of being shortened compared to the fluctuation time specified by the fluctuation pattern. Further, in this embodiment, when the result of the determination is “disappearing”, the length of the variation time is determined in consideration of the number of holds regarding the special symbol and the presence or absence of the reach effect. That is, the variation time specified by the variation pattern selected when it is determined that the reach effect is not performed is compared with the variation time specified by the variation pattern selected when the reach display is determined. Shortened. In addition, when the number of reserved special symbols is small (for example, “zero” or “1”), a variation pattern that specifies a longer variation time is selected, and when the number of retained symbols is large (for example, “2”). (In the case of “4”), a variation pattern that specifies a shorter variation time is selected.

  Each variation pattern table shown in FIGS. 31 to 34 is set in advance in the ROM 203 mounted on the main control board 200. In the symbol variation start process (S500b) of FIG. 30, each variation pattern table set in the ROM 203 is referred to. In this embodiment, the “shortening variation mode (short time mode)” refers to a state in which the variable time shortening function (short time function) is in operation. And in the game mode in which the opening extension means operates, that is, the “high probability opening extension mode (high probability shortening variation mode)” and “normal probability opening extension mode (normal probability shortening variation mode)”, the variation time shortening function (time shortening function) ) Is activated. Therefore, in the description of the present embodiment, “shortening variation mode (short time mode)” can be read as “open extension mode”.

  In addition, each variation pattern table shown in FIGS. 31 to 34 and the above description related thereto show an example in which a variation pattern table reflecting the presence / absence of execution of the reach effect based on the reach random number is defined. In the same manner, it is also possible to define a fluctuation pattern table reflecting whether or not a changing notice effect is executed based on a changing notice random number. In other words, a variation pattern table corresponding to “with notice of effect during change” and a change pattern table corresponding to “not notice of effect during change” can be added to each of the change pattern tables shown in FIGS. As a result, “With changing notice effect / reach effect”, “With changing notice effect / no reach effect”, “Without notice effect during change / With reach effect”, “Without notice effect during change / No reach effect” As described above, a variation pattern table combining the presence / absence of the reach effect and the presence / absence of the notice effect during the change can be obtained.

  Among the variation patterns stored in each variation pattern table shown in FIGS. 31 to 34, a “specific variation pattern” is obtained by adding “circle”. The variation time specified by the “specific variation pattern” is “128 seconds”. Then, as shown in FIG. 35, the time required from the start to the end of the symbol variation effect display based on the specific variation pattern is determined in advance after the specific suspension is generated (the variation pattern to be selected is the specific variation pattern). It is set to be longer than the time until the symbol variation effect display based on the specific variation pattern is started after the determination result is obtained.

  Here, the “specific variation pattern” is stored in the “big hit variation pattern table” shown in FIGS. 31A and 31B and the predetermined “outgoing variation pattern table” shown in FIGS. These are selected when a common variation pattern random number (for example, 251 to 255) is acquired. And according to a present Example, as shown in FIG. 35, it sets so that a notice display may be complete | finished before the symbol variation effect display based on a specific variation pattern is started.

  In the example shown in FIG. 35, during the execution of a predetermined symbol variation effect display (K), normal suspension (a variation pattern random number determined in advance that the selected variation pattern is not a specific variation pattern) is acquired four times (arrow). y1 to y4), specific hold (selected) at the timing when 3 seconds have elapsed from the start of the symbol variation effect display (L0) executed by digesting the first normal hold (see arrow y1) A case is shown in which a change pattern random number (preliminarily determined that the change pattern is a specific change pattern) is acquired and a notice display is started (see arrow V). In this case, when the symbol variation effect display (L3) related to the last normal hold (see arrow y4) among the four normal holds acquired during the execution of the symbol variation effect display (K) ends, The symbol variation effect display related to the hold (see arrow V) is started.

  Here, in the case where the prior determination is performed using the variation pattern random number when the variation pattern random number is acquired and the case where the obtained variation pattern random number is processed to start the symbol variation game (design variation effect display), the gaming state And the number of holds is not necessarily the same, there is a possibility that different variation pattern tables may be referred to at the time of prior determination and at the start of symbol variation. However, in the present embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 31 to 34, the variation pattern random numbers corresponding to the specific variation pattern are shared by all the variation pattern tables. When it is determined in advance that the variation pattern corresponding to the random number is a specific variation pattern, the variation pattern random number is processed when the variation pattern random number is processed to start the symbol variation game (design variation effect display). The specific variation pattern to be determined is determined (selected) as the variation pattern of the symbol variation game (design variation effect display).

  Also, in the example shown in FIG. 35, the symbol that has progressed when the specific suspension is acquired before the symbol variation effect display (L4) based on the “specific variation pattern” is started by the symbol variation effect display means. The variation effect display (L0) and the symbol variation effect display (L1, L2, L3) related to three normal holds (see arrows y2 to y4) are performed in advance. The execution time (execution time) of the display (L0 to L3) is determined using a variation pattern table selected in consideration of the gaming state and the number of holds when starting individual symbol variation effect display. In the example shown in FIG. 35, the execution time (execution time) of these symbol variation effect displays (L0 to L3) is the longest (“31 seconds”) (continuous four times, the variation pattern P1 in FIG. 32). However, it is still specified by the “specific variation pattern” rather than the total (124 seconds) of the execution time (execution time) of the symbol variation effect display (L0 to L3) performed in advance. The variation time (128 seconds) is increased. For this reason, even if the notice display is started substantially simultaneously with the symbol change effect display (L0) (for example, 0.5 seconds later), the symbol change effect display related to the notice display is not completed (whether or not The notice display is terminated and “symbol variation effect display based on the specific variation pattern by the symbol variation effect display means” is started.

  Returning to FIG. 30, further explanation will be made. After the processing of S510 or S540, the CPU 201 starts the variable display of the second special symbol (special symbol 2) on the second special symbol display unit 62b (S590), and the sub-control. A predetermined command (design variation start command) indicating the start of the variation display of the special figure 2 is transmitted to the unit 200A (sub control board 220) (S592). That is, the CPU 201 transmits a “variation pattern designation command”, a “special symbol stop information designation command” and the like related to the second special symbol to the sub-control board 220. Further, the CPU 201 performs a process of subtracting “1” from the “second hold number” and a process of transmitting a hold number designation command for specifying the hold number after the subtraction to the sub-control board 220. (S595), the special symbol 2 symbol variation start process (S500b) is terminated, the special symbol game process (S300) is terminated, and the game control process of FIG. 24 is resumed.

  Here, the variation pattern designation command and the special symbol stop information designation command are output toward the sub-control board 220 together with the strobe signal as shown in FIG. This strobe signal is connected to the interrupt terminal of the CPU 220a mounted on the sub-control board 220. When the strobe signal is input, the CPU 220a on the sub-control board 220 receives each designation signal immediately and receives the designation signal. Analyze the contents. Although detailed explanation is omitted, the variation pattern has various conditions such as whether or not a reach effect or a notice effect during variation is performed, and whether or not a symbol for stopping and displaying a special symbol is a winning symbol (big hit symbol). The CPU 220a on the sub-control board 220 side can recognize the variation pattern corresponding to the variation display of the current special symbol by analyzing the received variation pattern designation command. It is possible to recognize the time for fluctuating display, the presence / absence of a reach effect, and the presence / absence of a notice effect during variation. Also, by analyzing the received special symbol stop information designation command, it recognizes whether the special symbol stops at a big hit symbol or stops at a big hit symbol, and when it stops at a big hit symbol, which is the big hit symbol can do. That is, in the special symbol 2 symbol variation start process (S500b), the type of jackpot shown in FIG. 15 can be recognized, and in the special symbol 1 symbol variation start process (S500a) related to the first special symbol described later, FIG. The type of jackpot shown can be recognized.

  The CPU 220a mounted on the sub-control board 220 determines the effect pattern (pseudo-pattern display pattern) on the effect display device 27 based on these pieces of information, and then displays the pseudo-design on the effect display control board 222. A control signal is output, and pseudo symbol variation display, stop display, etc. are performed. Further, based on the variation time (variation pattern designation command) of the special symbol, whether or not to perform the changing notice effect and the reach effect on the effect display device 27, and what kind of changing notice effect and reach effect are performed. Also decide what to do. Then, the sub-control board 220 controls the effect display control board 222, the amplifier board 224, the decoration drive board 226, and the like according to the contents of the effect thus determined, thereby performing the effect of the determined contents.

  Returning to FIG. 27, when “the number of holdings related to the second special symbol” is “zero” (S314b; YES), and “the number of holdings related to the first special symbol” is not “zero” (S314a; NO), The oldest first lottery random number (Special Figure 1 lottery random number) is read from the first lottery random number memory 202a (S316a), and the first winning / nothing determination process is performed (S320a). Then, after performing the special figure 1 symbol variation start process (S500a), the special symbol game process (S300) is terminated and the process returns to the game control process of FIG. Here, the first success / failure determination process performed as the process of S320a is also performed according to FIG. 29 similarly to S320b, and the special figure 1 symbol variation start process (S500a) performed as the process of S500a is also performed as the process of S500b. Similar to the special figure 2 symbol variation start process (S500b), the process is performed according to FIG. In other words, in the first success / failure determination process of S320a, the first success / failure determination is executed according to the flowchart shown in FIG. 29, and in the special figure 1 symbol variation start process of S500a, the first success / failure determination process according to the flowchart shown in FIG. After performing the process of selecting (determining) the variation pattern of the first special symbol based on the result of (S320a), the process of selecting (determining) the symbol stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display unit 62a (S510) , S540), S590, S592, and S595.

  Next, when it is determined that the first special symbol or the second special symbol is changing (S310; YES) in S310 of the special symbol game processing (S300) (see FIG. 27), the special symbol game processing (S300) is already special. The symbol variation pattern and the stop symbol are determined, and the special symbol variation is started. Therefore, it is determined whether or not the special symbol variation time has elapsed (S341). That is, since the variation time of the special symbol is determined in advance according to the variation pattern, it is determined whether a predetermined variation time has elapsed by setting a timer at the same time as the variation of the special symbol is started. If the variation time has not yet elapsed (S341; NO), the special symbol game process (S300) is terminated as it is, and the process returns to the game control process of FIG.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the fluctuation time has elapsed (S341; YES), the fluctuating first special symbol or second special symbol is stopped (S344), the stopped symbol is displayed, and the symbol is also displayed. A stop command is output toward the sub-control board 220 (S346). The symbol stop command is transferred to the effect display control board 222 via the sub control board 220. Then, after setting the stop display time for stopping and displaying the special symbol (S348), it is determined whether or not the set stop display time has elapsed (S350).

  If it is determined in the process of S350 that the special symbol stop display time has not elapsed (S350; NO), the special symbol game process (S300) is terminated as it is, and the process returns to the game control process of FIG. On the other hand, when the stop display time of the special symbol has elapsed (S350; YES), it is determined whether or not the stop display mode is a mode indicating a big hit (big hit symbol) (S352 in FIG. 28).

  If an affirmative determination is made in the processing of S352 of FIG. 28, the CPU 201 of the main control board 200 sets information indicating the current game progress in a buffer to be referred to at the end of the “big hit game” described later. (Memorize) (S354). Specifically, “type of big hit” and “game state flag state” are set (stored) (S354). Further, the specific area of the RAM 202 mounted on the main control board 200 functions as a buffer used in the process of S354. Here, the “gaming state flag” is a flag indicating “the gaming state of the gaming machine 1”, that is, “probability change flag”, “fluctuation shortening flag”, “open extension flag”, and the like. In the process of S354, Data indicating whether these flags are set to “ON” or “OFF”, that is, data indicating the current gaming state (gaming mode) is set. Further, the “probability change flag” is a flag indicating that the gaming mode (gaming state) of the gaming machine 1 is in a high probability mode (mode in which the probability changing means operates), and the “change shortening flag” is a game of the gaming machine 1. This is a flag indicating that the mode (game state) is in the variation shortening mode (the mode in which the execution time of the symbol variation effect display is likely to be shortened). Further, the “open extension flag” increases the release time of the “variable start winning device” such as the second start winning device 17b of the present embodiment when the gaming mode (gaming state) of the gaming machine 1 is the open extended mode (the second start winning device 17b of this embodiment). (Mode).

  Subsequent to the process of S354, a process of setting an opening / closing pattern of the big winning device 31 according to the generated big hit mode is performed (S370). In other words, when “2R probability variable big hit” occurs, an opening / closing pattern for performing “2 rounds” of the round game described above is set, and when “8R normal big hit” or “8R probability big hit” occurs, An open / close pattern for “8 rounds” of round games is set. Further, when “16R normal big hit” or “16R probability variable big hit” occurs, an opening / closing pattern for performing “16 rounds” of the round game described above is set.

  Subsequent to the process of S370, a process of setting a big hit game flag (set to ON) is performed (S378). By setting the “big hit game flag”, the big hit game execution means starts operating, and the gaming state of the gaming machine 1 shifts to the “big hit gaming state”. The main control unit 200A transmits a “hit game start designation command (indicated as start C in the drawing) toward the sub-control unit 220A at the timing when the“ hit game flag ”is set.

  Subsequent to the process of S378, the process proceeds to the process after S380. Here, when the “big hit game flag” is set in the process of S378, the big hit game execution means starts to operate and the gaming state of the gaming machine 1 shifts to the “big hit gaming state”. When the “big hit game flag” is being set (when the big hit game execution means is in operation), the probability changing function, the time reduction function, and the open extension function are not activated. For this reason, after performing a series of processes after S380 as follows, the special symbol game process (S300) is terminated.

  That is, in the process of S380, it is determined whether or not the probability variation flag is set (set to ON) (S380). If it is not set (S380; NO), the process proceeds to S384 as it is and is set. If yes (S380; YES), after canceling the probability variation flag (set to OFF) (S382), the process proceeds to S384. Then, in the process of S384, it is determined whether or not the fluctuation shortening flag is set (set to ON). If it is not set (S384; NO), the special symbol game process (S300) is directly exited. Returning to the game control process of FIG. On the other hand, when it is determined in the process of S384 that the fluctuation shortening flag is set (set to ON) (S384; YES), after the fluctuation shortening flag and the open extension flag are canceled (set to OFF) ( S386, S387), the special symbol game process (S300) is exited, and the process returns to the game control process of FIG. In any case, when the process returns to the game control process of FIG. 24, a jackpot game process (S800 of FIG. 24) described later is started, and the jackpot game is executed.

  When the jackpot game is ended, by referring to the above-mentioned “Big hit game end reference buffer (see S354 in FIG. 28)”, the jackpot symbol (hereinafter, “ Information on the type (ordinary jackpot symbol, probability variation jackpot symbol) is acquired, and processing for setting a game mode after the jackpot game is performed based on this information. In other words, when “this big hit symbol” is “ordinary big hit symbol”, processing for setting “100” in the variation shortening counter, processing for setting the variation shortening flag, and processing for setting the release extension flag And do. As a result, after the special game (the first jackpot game) related to the “normal jackpot” is finished, the special symbol is changed to “100 times” (until the value of the fluctuation shortening counter becomes zero). The extension function and the variable time reduction function are activated. However, when the next big hit is generated, the opening extension function and the fluctuation time shortening function stop operating. When the big hit game related to the normal big hit is finished, the CPU 201 mounted on the main control board 200 sends a mode designation command for designating that the gaming mode of the gaming machine 1 is the “low probability shortening variation mode” to the sub control board 220. Send to.

  Also, if this big hit symbol is “probable variation big hit symbol”, set the probability variation flag (set to ON), set the variation shortening counter to “10,000”, and set the variation shortening flag And a process of setting the release extension flag. That is, when a “probable big hit” occurs, the probability that the result of the determination is a big hit is high after the big hit game related to the big hit is completed until the next big hit is generated. Also, after the jackpot game related to the jackpot, the opening extension function and the variable time shortening function are in an operating state until the number of changes of the special symbol reaches “10,000 times” (until the value of the fluctuation shortening counter becomes zero). It becomes. However, when the next big hit is generated, the opening extension function and the fluctuation time shortening function stop operating. When the big hit game related to “probability big hit” is finished, the CPU 201 mounted on the main control board 200 sub-modes the mode designation command for designating that the gaming mode of the gaming machine 1 is “high probability shortening variation mode”. Transmit to the control board 220.

  Next, a process when a negative determination is made in the process of S352 of FIG. 28 will be described. That is, when the special symbol stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display unit 62a or the second special symbol display unit 62b is “out of symbol” (S352; NO), the fluctuation shortening flag is set (set to ON). It is determined whether or not (S398). If the variation shortening flag is not set (set to OFF) (S398; YES), the special symbol game process (S300) is directly exited and the process returns to the game control process of FIG.

  On the other hand, when the variation shortening flag is set (set to ON) (S398; YES), that is, when the game mode at the time of the occurrence of the deviation is “low probability shortening variation mode” or “high probability shortening variation mode”. After the value of the fluctuation shortening counter is set to “−1” (S400), it is determined whether or not the value of the fluctuation shortening counter is “zero” (S404). If it is not "zero" (S404; NO), the special symbol game process (S300) is exited as it is and the process returns to the game control process of FIG. Here, the “variation shortening counter” indicates the upper limit number of variations of the special symbol executed while shortening the variation, and when the value becomes “zero”, the shortening variation is not performed in the next variation of the special symbol. .

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the value of the fluctuation shortening counter has become “zero” in the process of S404 (S404; YES), the gaming mode of the gaming machine 1 is changed from the low probability shortening fluctuation mode to the low probability normal fluctuation. It will switch to the mode. For this reason, the process of canceling the fluctuation shortening flag (set to OFF) (S410), the process of canceling the release extension flag (setting to OFF) (S416), and the process of transmitting the mode designation command to the sub control board 220 (S416). After performing S430), the special symbol game process (S300) is exited and the process returns to the game control process of FIG. In the process of S430, a “mode designation command” that designates the low-probability normal variation mode is transmitted to the sub-control board 220.

(7) Production control process (S900)
Next, referring to FIG. 36, the “control control process (CPU 220a of the sub control board 220)” performed in cooperation with the effect display control unit 222A (CPU not shown of the effect display control board 222). The outline of “S900)” will be described. FIG. 36 illustrates only main processes among the processes constituting the effect control process.

  In the effect control process (S900), when the gaming machine 1 is turned on or the reset switch is pressed, an initialization process is first performed (S960). After this, until the power is turned off, main processes such as the on-holding process (S1000), the symbol variation effect display process (S1100), the notice display control process (S1200), and the jackpot game effect process (S1800) are performed. Repeatedly executed. Note that the time required for one round of processing in FIG. 36 is approximately 2 msec, and therefore these processes are repeatedly executed about every 2 msec. In the following, description of the jackpot game effect process in the process shown in the flowchart of FIG. 36 is omitted.

a. Processing when hold occurs (S1000)
In the hold occurrence process (S1000), as shown in FIG. 37, when the CPU 220a of the sub-control board 220 receives the start prize command (S1005; YES), information on the hold number specified by the start prize command And the information regarding prior determination and the information regarding the random number for lottery are memorize | stored (S1010).

  Specifically, when a start winning command (first start winning command) resulting from the start winning to the first start winning device 17a is received (S1005; YES), the “first lottery random number information” is set to the first. The value is stored in the acquired random number information memory 221b and the value of the first reservation number stored in the first reservation number information memory 223b is “+1” (see FIG. 12). When a start winning command (second start winning command) resulting from the start winning to the second start winning device 17b is received (S1005; YES), the “second lottery random information” is acquired as the second acquired random number information. While being stored in the memory 222b, the value of the second hold number stored in the second hold number information memory 224b is "+1" (see FIG. 12).

  Following the process of S1010, the CPU 220a performs a process of additionally displaying an image related to the number of holds on the display screen 27a of the effect display device 27 (S1020). Specifically, when the first start winning command is received (S1005; YES), the display units (D1 to D4) in use (lighting display) in the first hold display area (D1, D2, D3, D4). ) Is incremented by 1 and the second start winning command is received (S1005; YES), the display section in use (lighted display) in the second hold display area (E1, E2, E3, E4) The number of (E1 to E4) is increased by 1 (see FIG. 5). And if CPU220a performs S1020 process, it will complete | finish processing (S1000) at the time of holding | maintenance generation | occurrence | production, and will return to the presentation control process (S900) shown in FIG.

b. Symbol variation effect display processing (S1100)
In the symbol variation effect display process (S1100), as shown in FIG. 38, when the CPU 220a of the sub control board 220 receives a command at the time of symbol variation start (S1105; YES), the processing after S1110 is executed. Here, the commands received in the processing of S1105 are a variation pattern designation command (CHP) and a special symbol stop information designation command (CJS). Here, the symbol variation effect display processing (S1100) constitutes a specific example of processing performed by the CPU 220a of the sub-control board 220 as symbol variation effect display means. Then, the CPU 220a executes the symbol variation effect display (see FIG. 5) with the main display area 27c as the main display area 27c when the notice display (see FIG. 39) is not accompanied, and the notice display is accompanied. In this case, the symbol change effect display is executed while narrowing the main display area 27c by the amount corresponding to the sub display area 27d (see FIG. 6).

  Based on the received “special symbol stop information designation command”, the sub-control unit 220A can determine the result of the determination (S320a, S320b) executed in the main control unit 200A. If the determination result is a big hit (S1110; YES), a process for distributing the effect pattern table at the time of the big hit is performed based on the received variation pattern designation command (S1115). If the result of the determination is wrong (S1110; NO), a process of distributing the effect pattern table at the time of failure is performed based on the received variation pattern designation command (S1120). In addition, each effect pattern table (not shown) at the time of big hit and off is stored in advance in the ROM 220c of the sub-control board 220.

  When the CPU 220a of the sub-control board 220 ends the process of S1115 or S1120, the CPU 220a performs the process of S1140. In the processing of S1140, the received symbol variation start command (variation pattern designation command, special symbol stop information designation command) using the effect pattern table (for big hit or off) set in the processing of S1115 or S1120 ) Corresponding to the symbol variation effect display is determined (S1140). Here, in the process of S1140 after the process of S1115, using the effect pattern table set in the process of S1115, a specific execution mode of display effects executed on the display screen 27a, a specific mode of reach display, and the like. The display pattern from the start to the end (deterministic display) of the pseudo symbol variation display (the variation pattern of the symbol variation effect display) is determined based on the received symbol variation start command (S1140). Specifically, the specific content of the changing notice effect (type of notice, the number of executions, etc.) and the specific content of the reach effect (“normal reach effect”, “pseudo-continuous effect”) (background design type, Characters to appear, the types of pseudo symbols constituting the reach display, the types of pseudo symbols to be temporarily stopped, and the like are determined (S1140). Also, using the effect pattern table set in the processing of S1115, the effect mode related to effect elements (sound effect element, light emission effect element, movable effect element, etc.) other than the display effect elements, the display mode related to the auxiliary symbols, etc. are selected and set. (S1140).

  Further, in the process of S1140 executed through the process of S1120, the specific execution mode of the display effect executed on the display screen 27a of the effect display device 27, the presence / absence of the changing notice effect, and the changing notice effect are executed. The process of determining the display pattern from the start to the end (deterministic display) of the pseudo-symbol variation display, such as the notice mode in the case, the presence / absence of the reach display, the reach display mode when the reach display is performed, etc. Based on the start command. Specifically, using the effect pattern table set in the process of S1120, the specific contents (type of notice, number of executions, etc.) when performing the changing notice effect, or “reach display” is not performed. Specific contents of “simple outage effect”, specific contents of reach effect when performing reach display (“normal reach effect”, “pseudo-continuous effect”), types of pseudo symbols constituting reach display, and temporary stop display The type or the like of the pseudo symbol is determined based on the received symbol variation start command (S1140). Also, using the effect pattern table set in the processing of S1120, the effect mode related to effect elements (sound effect element, light emission effect element, movable effect element, etc.) other than the display effect element, the display mode related to the auxiliary symbols, etc. are selected and set. (S1140).

  When the CPU 220a performs the process of S1140, the CPU 220a performs a process of setting a stop symbol (design to be confirmed) of the pseudo symbol (S1145), and then proceeds to the process of S1150. Here, in the process of S1145 executed through the process of S1115 and the process of S1140, a specific mode of “pseudo symbol for definite display of jackpot” or a stop mode of the auxiliary symbol is selected as the “big hit stop symbol”. Set. In addition, in the process of S1145 executed through the process of S1120 and the process of S1140, a specific mode of “pseudo symbol for definite display and a stop mode of an auxiliary symbol” is selected / set as the “stopping stop symbol” Is done.

  In the process of S1150, a command (effect display detail command) for designating the “effect pattern” determined in the process of S1140 and the “pseudo symbol stop pattern” determined in the process of S1145 is displayed in the effect display control unit 222A (effect display control board). 222), and the effect display device 27 starts to display the effect symbols such as pseudo symbols and background symbols (S1150). That is, the symbol variation effect display on the display screen 27a of the effect display device 27 is started.

  Thereafter, in the process of S1160, if the sub-control unit 220A determines that the symbol stop command (CZE) transmitted from the main control unit 200A (main control board 200) has been received (S1160; YES), the received symbol stop The command is transferred to the effect display control unit 222A, the effect display of the pseudo symbol and the background symbol in the effect display device 27 is stopped (S1165), and the symbol variation effect display is ended. Thereby, the design variation effect using effect elements (sound effect element, light emission effect element, movable effect element, etc.) other than the display effect element is also ended.

c. Notice display control process (S1200)
In the notice display control process (S1200), as shown in FIG. 39, if the CPU 220a of the sub-control board 220 determines that the notice display execution flag has been canceled (set to OFF) (S1205; YES), S1210 Shift to subsequent processing. Here, the notice display execution flag is a flag indicating that the notice display is being executed.

  In the processing of S1210, it is determined whether or not a “start winning prize command (first starting winning command or second start winning command)” has been received (S1210). If not received (S1210; NO) The notice display control process (S1200 is ended and the effect control process (S900) shown in FIG. 36 is resumed. On the other hand, when it is received (S1210; YES), a prior determination regarding the variation pattern is performed (S1212). The pre-judgment process is based on the values of “variation pattern random number”, “reach random number” and “predicting random number during change” that can be specified from the information (holding information) included in the start winning command. ) Is actually processed (digested), the fluctuation pattern determined by the CPU 201 of the main control board 200 (S510, S540 in FIG. 30, FIG. 1 to 34) is determined in advance as to whether or not the “specific variation pattern.” The CPU 201 of the main control board 200 includes the fluctuation pattern of FIGS. When determining a variation pattern using a table, the conditions for the variation pattern to be a “specific variation pattern”, that is, the “variation pattern random number”, “reach random number” and “prediction during variation” when the “specific variation pattern” is determined Each value of “random number” is stored in advance.The CPU 220a of the sub-control board 220 determines whether or not the information (holding information) included in the received start winning command matches the stored condition. By determining, it is possible to determine whether or not the variation pattern when the information (holding information) is actually processed is a “specific variation pattern”. That. The process of this S1212 constitutes an example of the processing of the CPU220a performs "variation pattern beforehand determining means".

  The CPU 201 mounted on the main control board 200 executes a pre-determination regarding the variation pattern, and transmits a start winning command including information that can specify the result of the pre-determination to the sub-control board 220. Also good. In this case, since the CPU 220a can execute the process of S1215 based on the “preliminary determination result regarding the variation pattern specified by the start winning command”, the “warning display control process (S1200)” of FIG. The process of S1212 ”can be eliminated.

  The CPU 220a makes a prior determination (S1212) regarding the variation pattern, and then determines whether or not a prior determination result indicating that the variation pattern is a specific variation pattern is obtained (S1215). If it is obtained (S1215; NO), the notice display control process (S1200) is terminated and the process returns to the effect control process (S900) shown in FIG. On the other hand, when a preliminary determination result indicating that the specific variation pattern is obtained (S1215; YES), after setting the notice display execution flag (set to ON), the notice display is started and the process of S1240 is performed. Migrate to This notice display is performed as follows. That is, based on the information included in the start winning command that triggered the pre-determination result that the specific variation pattern is obtained in the above-described variation pattern pre-determination process (S1212), the “future symbol variation effect display” A fluctuation pattern (effect pattern) is specified. Specifically, the “first pre-determination result information memory 226b”, “second pre-determination result memory 227b”, “first acquired random number information memory 221b”, and “first” are shown in FIG. The symbol variation effect determined when the information (holding information) is actually processed (digested) based on information newly stored (additionally stored) in the corresponding memory among the “2 acquired random number information memory 222b” A display variation pattern (effect pattern) is specified. The prior specification of the variation pattern of the symbol variation effect display is performed using the above-described effect pattern table (not shown) stored in advance in the ROM 220c. Then, the symbol variation effect display (future symbol variation effect display) based on the identified variation pattern (effect pattern) is started in the sub display area 27d formed on the display screen 27a of the effect display device 27. .

  After starting the notice display in this way, in S1240, it is determined whether or not the original symbol variation effect display (actual symbol variation effect display) related to the specific variation pattern is started (S1240). However, immediately after starting the notice display, since the “original symbol variation effect display” has not yet been started, a negative judgment is made in the process of S1240 (S1240; NO), and the notice display control process ( S1200) is ended, and the process returns to the effect control process (S900) shown in FIG. Then, when the notice display control process (S1200) is started again, the process of S1240 is executed through a negative determination in S1205. If a negative determination is made in the process of S1240 (S1240; NO), it remains as it is. The notice display control process ends, and the process returns to the effect control process (S900) shown in FIG. Then, when it is determined that the original symbol variation effect display has been started while repeatedly executing each process of the effect control process (S900) (S1240; YES), the notice display being executed in the sub display area 27d is terminated. After performing (S1250) and the process (S1260) of canceling (setting OFF) the notice display execution flag, the notice display control process (S1200) is terminated and the effect control process (S900) shown in FIG. 36 is restored. To do.

  Here, “the process from S1230 to S1250” constitutes a specific example of the process performed by the CPU 220a of the sub-control board 220 as the notice display unit. Then, when starting the notice display, the CPU 220a causes the sub display area 27d to appear in a part of the display screen 27a (see FIG. 6), and when the notice display ends, the sub display area 27d disappears from the display screen 27a. The substantially entire display screen 27a is returned to the main display area 27c.

(8) Effects of the embodiment In the gaming machine 1, a symbol change effect display to be performed in the future by using a function of a prior determination regarding a change pattern (complete symbol change effect display including a notice effect during change, a reach effect, etc.) Can be shown to the player in advance as a notice display. That is, the symbol change effect display to be performed in the future can be shown to the player as long as time permits, faithfully in a complete state (notice effect during change, reach effect, appearance of character, etc.). In addition, while executing the symbol variation effect display in the main display region (main display region 27c), the notice display is performed in the sub display region (sub display region 27e). (Inhibiting the role related to the effect of the symbol variation effect display and the notification of the result of the determination).

  Then, the original execution timing of the symbol variation effect display previously shown in the sub display area 27e as the notice display comes, and the symbol variation effect display is started in the main display region 27c. It is possible to make the design change effect display that has been started appear as if it has been started again (as if it was restarted). That is, by repeating the symbol variation effect display previously executed as the notice display in the sub display region 27e once more in the main display region 27c, the player is given an impression that the symbol variation effect display has been restarted. be able to.

  In other words, in the gaming machine 1, after the symbol variation effect display based on the pre-read specific variation pattern is started before the original start timing (pre-read hold digest timing), the original start timing (pre-read hold digest timing) When the symbol arrives, the symbol variation based on the specific variation pattern is started again. Thus, according to this gaming machine 1, it is possible to realize a new reserved pre-reading effect (pre-reading symbol variation effect display) that makes use of the function related to the pre-determination, thereby enhancing the game entertainment.

  Further, in this gaming machine 1, since the variation time of the symbol variation effect display based on the specific variation pattern is longer than the time taken from the occurrence of the specific hold to the digestion, the result of the symbol variation effect display performed as the notice display is It is possible to prevent it from becoming known in advance. For this reason, in the case of notifying the “result of determination of success / failure” by the symbol variation effect display, the result of the determination of the success / failure is revealed by the notice display before the original execution timing of the symbol variation effect display arrives, thereby It can prevent a situation where interest is reduced.

  Further, in this gaming machine, the symbol variation effect display and the notice display are executed in parallel on the same display screen 27a. It becomes easy to visually recognize these simultaneously. In other words, it is easy to visually recognize the content of the currently displayed symbol variation effect display and the content of the symbol variation effect display (preliminary display) to be executed at the same time. Thereby, a game interest can be improved efficiently and effectively.

  Next, a gaming machine according to the second embodiment will be described. The second embodiment is the same as the first embodiment except that FIG. 40 is used instead of FIG. 31, FIG. 41 is added, and FIG. 42 is used instead of FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 40, in the big hit variation pattern table of the second embodiment, in addition to the specific variation pattern shown in the first embodiment (variation pattern T that identifies a variation time of 128 seconds), a variation time shorter than that is used. (50 seconds) of a specific variation pattern (hereinafter referred to as “specific variation pattern X”) is stored.

  In the gaming machine according to the second embodiment, when it is determined in advance that the determination result is a big hit, when the variation pattern random number corresponding to the “specific variation pattern X” is acquired, as shown in FIG. The notice display informs that the result of the determination of success / failure is “big hit” by the time the original symbol variation effect display based on the variation pattern X (the actual symbol variation effect display executed in the main display area 27c) is started. May occur.

  Further, the notice display control process (S1200) of the second embodiment is executed in accordance with FIG. 42, but the notice display control process (S1200) performs the process of S1241 instead of the process of S1240 of FIG. This is different from the notice display control process (S1200) of the first embodiment. According to the notice display control process (S1200) of the second embodiment, when the original symbol fluctuation display related to the specific fluctuation pattern is started or when the notice display end timing comes (S1241; YES), the notice display is finished. After performing the process (S1250) to perform and the process (S1260) of canceling (setting OFF) the notice display execution flag, the notice display control process (S1200) is terminated.

  According to the second embodiment, the following effects can be obtained in addition to the effects of the first embodiment. That is, according to the second embodiment, there is a case where the notice display ends before the execution time of the original symbol variation effect display based on the specific variation pattern arrives. In this case, after the notice display shows that the result of the success / failure determination is a big hit, the original symbol change effect display based on the specific change pattern is started, but for the player, the result of the success / failure determination is a big hit. Therefore, it is possible to touch the original symbol variation effect display with a sense of accomplishment. As a result, it is possible to increase the player's expectation for starting the original symbol variation effect display at the stage of executing the notice display, and as a result, it is possible to enhance the game entertainment.

  Next, a gaming machine according to the third embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. The gaming machine according to the third embodiment is different from the gaming machine according to the first embodiment in that a display device that displays a symbol variation effect display and a display device that displays a notice display are different devices.

  The gaming machine according to the third embodiment also includes a gaming board 10 similar to the gaming machine 1 according to the first embodiment, a main body frame 3 (not shown in FIG. 43), and a front frame 4. In addition, as the display device for performing the symbol variation effect display, similarly to the effect display device 27 of the first embodiment, an effect display device 27A constituted by a liquid crystal display device is used, and the symbol variation is performed on the display screen 27a of the effect display device 27A. Perform production display. In addition, a sub-display device 27B for displaying a notice is provided in a portion that is visible through the viewing window 41a of the front frame 4 and is positioned above the display screen 27a of the effect display device 27A. The sub display device 27B is configured by a liquid crystal display device that is smaller than the effect display device 27A. Then, a notice is displayed on the display screen 27g of the sub display device 27B. The position of the sub display device 27B is not particularly limited as long as it is a part that can be viewed through the viewing window 41a, and may be below the display screen 27a, on the left side, or on the right side. In addition, the game board 10 can be configured to be transparent, and the effect display device 27A and the sub display device 27B can be disposed behind the game board 10.

  According to the third embodiment, the following effects can be obtained in addition to the effects of the first embodiment. That is, according to the third embodiment, since the symbol variation effect display and the notice display are executed in parallel on the display devices 27A and 27B, the role (function) of each display device is clearly defined for the player. It can be recognized separately. Thereby, it becomes possible to make the player firmly recognize the presence of the notice display, and the gaming interest can be effectively enhanced.

  Next, a modified example of the third embodiment (hereinafter referred to as “modified example 1”) will be described. In the gaming machine according to the first modification, as shown in FIG. 44 (a), the sub-display device 27B constituted by a liquid crystal display device smaller than that of the third embodiment is provided on the front frame 4. However, the same effect as in the third embodiment can be obtained.

  In the first modification, the display screen 27g of the sub display device 27B may be arranged in a substantially flush state with the surface portion of the front frame 4, but as in the second modification shown in FIG. The concave portion 4V of the front frame 4 may be provided, and the display screen 27g of the sub display device 27B may be positioned at a site that is retracted (retracted toward the game board 10) from the surface portion of the front frame 4. In this case, since the notice display is visually recognized by looking into the recess 4V from the front of the front frame 4, it is possible to create a new interest in the “act of the player visually recognizing the notice display”.

  Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments, and is not limited to the wording of each claim without departing from the scope described in each claim. Can be easily added to the range in which these are easily replaced, and improvements based on knowledge that a person skilled in the art normally has.

  For example, in each of the above-described embodiments and modifications, the game balls supplied from the island facilities in the game hall are used as “rental balls” or “prize balls”, and various winning holes (first start) provided on the game board are used. Games that give the player a profit (game value) as a result of the game by paying out a predetermined number of prize balls in response to the entry of game balls into the mouth, the second start opening, the big prize opening, etc. Although the example in which the present invention is applied to the machine 1 has been described, the present invention can also be applied to a gaming machine of a type that gives a gaming profit (game value) in a form different from “payout of prize balls”. it can.

  As such a type of gaming machine, when a game ball is entered into various winning openings, data indicating the amount of profit (the magnitude of the game value) corresponding to the winning ball is given to the main control unit or the payout By storing it in the RAM of the control unit, it is possible to exemplify a gaming machine that gives a game profit (game value) to a player. In this case, the same effect as in the above embodiment can be obtained. As a type of gaming machine in which gaming profit (game value) is converted into data and given to the player, a gaming machine that circulates and uses a plurality of gaming balls built in the gaming machine, specifically, Examples of the game machine (so-called enclosed game machine) configured to return the game ball discharged to the back surface of the game board through various winning holes or out holes to the launch position and launch it again. In this type of game machine (so-called enclosed game machine), for example, every time a game ball enters a winning opening, for example, data indicating a prize ball amount determined for each winning opening is stored. Thus, the game value as a result of the game can be given to the player.

  The present invention can be used in the field of manufacturing and selling gaming machines.

1; gaming machine (ball game machine),
2; outer frame,
10: Game board,
11: Game area,
17a; first start winning device,
17b; second start winning device,
27; production display device;
27a; display screen,
31; Grand prize-winning device,
62a; first special symbol display section (special symbol display means),
62b; second special symbol display section (special symbol display means),
200A; main control unit (variation pattern determination means, random number acquisition means, lottery random number storage means),
220A; sub-control unit (design variation effect display means, variation pattern prior determination means, notice display means),
222A; effect display control unit.

Claims (2)

Random number acquisition means for acquiring a random number for variation determination for determining at least the variation pattern of the symbol variation effect display based on the game ball entering the start opening,
An acquired random number storage means for storing the variation determining random number acquired by the random number acquiring means;
When a predetermined symbol variation execution condition is satisfied, a variation pattern determining unit that determines the variation pattern based on the variation determining random number stored in the acquired random number storage unit;
Symbol variation effect display means for performing symbol variation effect display based on the variation pattern determined by the variation pattern determination means;
Based on the variation determination random number acquired by the random number acquisition unit, a variation pattern prior determination unit that predetermines a variation pattern to be determined by the variation pattern determination unit;
When the variation pattern preliminarily determined by the variation pattern prior determination unit is a specific variation pattern, the symbol based on the specific variation pattern is executed before the symbol variation effect display based on the specific variation pattern is performed by the symbol variation effect display unit. A notice display means for performing a change effect display as a notice display;
With
Wherein before the execution of the symbol variation effect display based on the specific variation pattern by the symbol variable effect display unit, a symbol variation effect display the symbol variation effect display means performs the warning display means and symbol variation effect display performed as predictive display is a viable and concurrent, symbol variation effect display the symbol variation effect display means performs is performed in the main display area of the predetermined display device, the warning display unit symbol variation effect display performed as predictive display Is performed in a sub display area formed in a part of the main display area,
When the execution time of the symbol variation effect display based on the specific variation pattern by the symbol variation effect display means comes, the notice display means ends the notice display, the sub display area is erased, and the symbol variation effect display means It intends rows symbol variation effect display based on the specific change pattern in the main display area
The gaming machine which is characterized a call. The time required from the start to the end of the symbol variation effect display based on the specific variation pattern is obtained after a preliminary determination result that the specific variation pattern is obtained by the variation pattern prior determination unit. the rather long than the time until the symbol variation effect display based on the specific change pattern is started by,
If the execution time of the symbol variation effect display based on the specific variation pattern by the symbol variation effect display unit comes before the symbol variation effect display performed by the notice display unit as the notice display, the notice display unit ends the notification display. 2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the sub display area is erased, and the symbol variation effect display means starts symbol variation effect display based on the specific variation pattern in the main display region .

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