JP5766781B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine that produces effects according to the game situation.

  In a gaming machine such as a pachinko machine, a big hit lottery is performed when a game ball wins a prize such as a start opening. When the jackpot is won, the gaming machine is put into a jackpot gaming state in which the jackpot is opened and many winning balls can be obtained. Therefore, in the hall in which the gaming machine is installed, the player plays a game so that the player wins a lottery by winning by hitting a game ball in order to put the gaming machine into a jackpot gaming state. In the gaming machine, in accordance with the lottery game using the game balls by the player, various effects such as display on the display unit, lighting of various lamps, sound by a speaker, and the like (hereinafter referred to as “game effects”). ) Is performed.

In addition, there is known a gaming machine that performs a special effect (hereinafter referred to as “special effect”) that progresses separately from the game effect by using a display unit, a speaker, or the like of the game machine.
For example, in Patent Document 1, for example, in a pachinko gaming machine arranged side by side on an island in a hall, a synchronous effect is executed all at a fixed time, and a countdown image is displayed before the execution of the synchronous effect. It is described that it comprises.

JP 2007-252534 A

  By the way, depending on the progress timing of the game based on the result of the lottery, the game effect and the special effect may be performed simultaneously. In such a case, if only one of the effects is displayed on the display unit of the gaming machine, the interest for the player who is looking forward to both effects will be halved. Also, if both effects are simply displayed in parallel on the display unit, it is difficult to utilize each effect.

  An object of the present invention is to provide a screen display that allows a player to enjoy both a game effect and a special effect.

The gaming machine 100 to which the present invention is applied has a display unit 114 that displays an image and an effect image that is used for an effect that is performed with a predetermined effect time based on the progress of the game based on the result of the lottery. When the effect image display means 310 to display, the time information acquisition means for acquiring time information, and the time information acquired by the time information acquisition means are recognized as the first time determined in advance, The preceding image used for the preceding effect that suggests in advance that a special effect different from the effect is to be executed is either a part of the display area of the display unit 114 or a display area larger than the part of the display area. wherein the display of the presentation image by rendering the image display unit 310 and the preceding image display means simultaneously displays on the display unit 114, after a predetermined time from the start of the preceding effect Te It includes a special image display means for displaying a special image to be used for the special effect to be executed following the line directing to the display and the display unit 114 at the same time of the presentation image by the effect image display unit 310, a first When the effect started before the time ends before the first time, the preceding image display means displays the effect image on the display unit 114 from the first time. When the preceding image is displayed in the large display area on the display unit 114 and an effect started before the first time is continuously performed after the first time, the effect There while displaying an effect image of the effect by the effect image display unit 310 until completed on the display unit 114, on the part of the display area of the display unit 114 by the preceding image display means When the preceding image is displayed and the effect started before the first time ends after the first time and before the lapse of the predetermined time, the effect next to the ended effect is displayed. In the gaming machine 100, the preceding image is displayed in the large display area on the display unit 114 by the preceding image display means while displaying the effect image of the effect performed in the above .

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

  According to the present invention, it is possible to perform screen display that allows the player to enjoy both the game effect and the special effect.

It is a schematic front view of the pachinko gaming machine according to the present embodiment. It is a fragmentary view of the pachinko gaming machine of this embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the internal structure of the control unit of the pachinko game machine of this embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the function structure of the game control part of this embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the main operation | movement of the game control part of this embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of an effect control part. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the gate switch process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the special symbol process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the jackpot determination process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the fluctuation pattern selection process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the process during a stop. It is a flowchart which shows the content of a customer waiting | standby setting process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of normal symbol processing. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the big prize opening process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the game state setting process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of an electric tulip process. It is a figure which shows the structural example of the random number used by this embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of an effect control part. It is a flowchart which shows the content of command reception processing. It is a figure which shows the example of a mode flag setting in this embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the content of effect selection processing. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the process during completion | finish of a fluctuation production. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the win production | presentation selection process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the ending effect selection process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of a customer waiting command reception process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of effect button processing. It is a figure for demonstrating the content of a special effect process. It is a figure which shows the screen structure in game production mode and special production mode. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the special effect process. It is a figure which shows the screen structure when a symbol fluctuation | variation does not complete | finish by the setting time of special production mode. It is a timing chart of symbol variation and special effects. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the process of the screen display according to a design fluctuation. It is a timing chart of symbol variation, jackpot game effect, and special effect. It is a figure for demonstrating the production | presentation when a decoration symbol aligns in special production mode. It is a figure for demonstrating the display image at the time of shifting to the jackpot game state in game effect mode. It is a figure for demonstrating the display image at the time of transfering to the jackpot game state in special effect mode. It is an operation | movement flow in the case of shifting to a jackpot game state in special production mode. It is a block diagram of the hardware which displays an image on a display screen. It is a figure for demonstrating the screen structure displayed on a display screen. It is a figure which shows the screen structure of the game production mode and special production mode in Embodiment 2. FIG. 10 is a timing chart of symbol variation and special effects in the second embodiment. It is a figure for demonstrating the production | presentation when a decoration symbol aligns in special production mode. It is a figure for demonstrating the display image when it transfers to the jackpot game state in special effect mode.

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

  The game board 110 has a game area 111 for playing with a game ball on the front surface, a rail member 112 that forms a passage where a game ball launched from below rises toward the upper position of the game area 111, and a game A guide member 113 for guiding the game ball is provided on the right side of the region 111.

  In the present embodiment, an image display unit 114 that displays various images for production is provided at a position of the game area 111 that is easily visible to the player. The image display unit 114 as an example of the display unit includes a display screen 114a using a liquid crystal display or the like, and for example, notifies the player of a symbol lottery result (symbol variation result) as the game progresses by the player. A decorative design is displayed, or a game effect image that is an effect image by a character or an item is displayed. In addition, a special effect image in the special effect described later is also displayed on the display screen 114a of the image display unit 114 of the present embodiment.

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

  In the present embodiment, as various functions related to winning and lottery, the first starting port 121 and the second starting port 122 that win when a game ball enters and a special symbol lottery (big hit lottery) starts, A start gate (hereinafter simply referred to as a gate) 124 that starts a normal symbol lottery (open / close lottery) upon passing, is provided on the game board 110. In FIG. 1, the gates 124 are provided on the left and right sides of the game area 111, the left gate 124 is indicated as 124L, and the right gate 124 is indicated as 124R. In addition, the first start port 121 and the second start port 122 referred to here are winning ports related to winning a game ball that activates one predetermined special symbol display.

  The second start port 122 includes an electric tulip 123 as a normal electric accessory that is turned on and off by a pair of blades in the shape of tulip flowers opened and closed by an electric solenoid. In the electric tulip 123, when the blade is closed, it is difficult for the game ball to enter the second start port 122, but when the blade is opened, the entrance of the second start port 122 is expanded and the game ball is moved to the second start port 122. It is configured to be easy to enter. When the electric tulip 123 wins the normal symbol lottery, the blade opens for a specified time (for example, 6 seconds) and a specified number of times (for example, 3 times) while lighting or flashing.

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

Also, in this embodiment, the lottery does not start even if a game ball is won and the large winning opening 125 as a special electric accessory that opens according to the result of the special symbol lottery as other prizes and lotteries. A normal winning opening 126 is disposed on the game board 110.
In the present embodiment, the first start port 121 and the second start port 122 are disposed in the game area 111. However, a configuration example in which only one of them is disposed or another start port is disposed. A configuration may be adopted. Further, in the present embodiment, one big prize opening 125 is arranged in the game area 111, but a configuration in which a plurality of big prize openings 125 are arranged may be adopted.
In the present embodiment, a display 130 for displaying a lottery result and the number of holds is arranged at the lower right position of the game board 110.

When the player touches the handle 151 and rotates the lever 152 in the clockwise direction, the frame member 150 moves the game balls at a predetermined time interval (for example, 100 per minute) with a hitting force according to the operation angle. And a launching device (not shown) for electrically firing. A configuration in which the handle 151 emits light under a predetermined condition may be employed.
The frame member 150 includes a supply device (not shown) for sequentially supplying game balls one by one to a launching device (not shown) at a timing interlocked with the operation of the player's lever 152 and a supply device (not shown). An upper plate 153 (see FIG. 2) for temporarily storing game balls to be supplied to the launching device. For example, a payout ball by the payout unit 560 is paid out to the upper plate 153.
In the present embodiment, the upper plate 153 is configured as an integrated upper and lower plate, but a configuration example in which the upper plate and the lower plate are separated is also conceivable. A configuration example in which the handle 151 of the launching device emits light under a predetermined condition is also conceivable.

  Further, the frame member 150 includes a speaker 156 and a frame lamp 157 for notifying the gaming state and situation of the pachinko gaming machine 100 and performing various effects. The speaker 156 performs various sound effects by music, voice, and sound effects, and the frame lamp 157 performs various effects by light depending on a pattern by lighting and blinking, a difference in emission color, and the like. As the light source of the frame lamp 157, for example, an LED light source can be used. Note that the frame lamp 157 may be configured so that the light irradiation direction can be changed according to the effect.

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

  In addition, the indicator 130 operates in response to the hold in the first special symbol display 221 and the first special symbol hold indicator 218 that operates corresponding to the hold in the first special symbol display 221 and the second special symbol display 222. 2 a special symbol hold indicator 219 and a normal symbol hold indicator 220 that operates in response to the hold in the normal symbol indicator 223. Each of the first special symbol hold indicator 218, the second special symbol hold indicator 219, and the normal symbol hold indicator 220 is configured by an LED display device, and the number of holds is displayed by its lighting mode.

  Here, the hold will be described. If there is a prize with another game ball during the fluctuation display operation of special symbols or normal symbols (while the fluctuation display for one win is being performed), the symbol fluctuation display operation for the winning game ball will be A predetermined number (for example, four) is held until the variation display operation for the game ball won in is completed. The fact that such a hold is made and the number of the hold (the number of undrawn lots) are displayed on the first special symbol hold indicator 218, the second special symbol hold indicator 219, and the normal symbol hold indicator 220.

  The frame member 150 of the pachinko gaming machine 100 includes an input device for a player to input an effect. As shown in FIG. 2B, in this embodiment, an effect button 161 and an effect key 162 composed of a plurality of keys adjacent to the effect button 161 and arranged in a substantially cross shape are arranged on the frame member 150. It is installed. The production key 162 is configured such that one central key is arranged at the center, and four peripheral keys having substantially the same shape are arranged around the central key. The player can instruct one of a plurality of images displayed on the image display unit 114 by operating the four peripheral keys, and also instructed by operating the center key. It is possible to select an image. In addition to the effect buttons 161 and the effect keys 162 shown in the figure, various input forms such as levers, dials, and the like can be adopted as the input device.

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

[Configuration and function of game control unit]
The game control unit 200 includes a CPU 201 that performs arithmetic processing when performing various controls related to the number of paid-out prize balls, such as internal lottery and winning determination, and a ROM 202 that stores programs executed by the CPU 201, various data, and the like. And a RAM 203 used as a working memory for the CPU 201.
The game control unit 200 performs a special symbol lottery when a game ball wins the first start port 121 or the second start port 122, and sends a determination result as to whether or not it is a win in the special symbol lottery to the effect control unit 300. Also, fluctuation setting of winning probability at special symbol lottery (for example, fluctuation setting from 1/300 to 1/30), special symbol fluctuation time shortening at special symbol lottery, and normal symbol at normal symbol lottery The variable time is set to be shortened, and the setting content is sent to the effect control unit 300.

Further, the game control unit 200 controls the extension of the opening time of the blades of the electric tulip 123, the setting of the number of times the blades of the electric tulip 123 are opened, and the setting of the opening / closing operation interval when the blades are opened. In addition, when a game ball continuously wins the first start port 121 or the second start port 122, the game ball is suspended until the limit number (for example, four) for the undrawn lots, or the game ball continuously passes through the gate 124. The suspension is set up to the limit number (for example, 4) for the undrawn lots.
In addition, the game control unit 200 performs a predetermined number of rounds that maintain an open state until the special winning opening 125 satisfies a predetermined condition (for example, 30 seconds have passed or 10 game balls have been won) according to the result of the special symbol lottery. Control to repeat. Furthermore, the opening / closing operation interval when the special winning opening 125 is opened is controlled.

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

As shown in FIG. 3, the game control unit 200 includes a first start port detection unit (first start port switch (SW)) 211 that detects a winning of a game ball to the first start port 121, and a second start. A second start port detection unit (second start port switch (SW)) 212 that detects a winning of a game ball to the mouth 122, an electric tulip opening / closing unit 213 that opens and closes the electric tulip 123, and a game ball to the gate 124 A gate detection unit (gate switch (SW)) 214 that detects passage is connected.
Further, the game control unit 200 has a large winning port detecting unit (large winning port switch (SW)) 215 for detecting a winning of a game ball to the large winning port 125, and the large winning port 125 is inclined to be in a closed state. A large winning opening / closing unit 216 set to the open state and a normal winning opening detecting unit (normal winning opening switch (SW)) 217 for detecting the winning of a game ball to the normal winning opening 126 are connected.

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

  Then, detection signals detected by the first start port switch 211, the second start port switch 212, the gate switch 214, the big winning port switch 215 and the normal winning port switch 217 are sent to the game control unit 200. In addition, the control signal from the game control unit 200 includes an electric tulip opening / closing unit 213, a prize winning opening / closing unit 216, a first special symbol hold indicator 218, a second special symbol hold indicator 219, a normal symbol hold indicator 220, It is sent to the first special symbol display 221, the second special symbol display 222, the normal symbol display 223, and the status display 224. Thereby, the game control unit 200 performs various controls related to the number of payout prize balls.

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

[Configuration and function of production control unit]
The effect control unit 300 includes a CPU that performs arithmetic processing when controlling the effect, a ROM that stores programs executed by the CPU, various data, and the like, a RAM that is used as a work memory of the CPU, and the like. A real-time clock (RTC) for measuring the time and a timer for measuring an elapsed time from a predetermined trigger. It has. The circuit configuration of the effect control unit 300 will be described in detail later (FIG. 39).
In this embodiment, a timer and a real time clock (RTC) function as time information acquisition means.

The production control unit 300 sets the production content based on, for example, the determination result of whether or not the winning is a special symbol lottery sent from the game control unit 200. At that time, in response to an operation input from the user using an effect button or the like (the effect button 161 and an effect key (not shown)), the effect content corresponding to the operation input may be set. At that time, in response to an operation input from the user using an effect button or the like, the contents of the effect according to the operation input may be set. In this case, for example, a signal (operation signal) corresponding to an operation is received from a controller (not shown) such as an effect button, and the operation content identified by the operation signal is reflected in the setting of the effect.
In addition, when the game is interrupted for a predetermined period, an instruction to set a screen display for waiting for a customer is given as one of the effects.

  Furthermore, when the game control unit 200 changes the winning probability at the time of the special symbol lottery, shortens the special symbol fluctuation time at the time of the special symbol lottery, and shortens the normal symbol fluctuation time at the time of the normal symbol lottery. In this case, the production control unit 300 sets the production content corresponding to the set content.

Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the effect control unit 300 executes the special effect when a predetermined time is reached based on the time of the timer and the real time clock. This special effect is an effect different from the effect that proceeds based on the lottery result sent from the game control unit 200. This special effect will be described in detail later.
In addition, the effect control unit 300 sends a command for instructing execution of the set effect contents to the image / sound control unit 310 and the lamp control unit 320.

[Configuration / Function of Image / Sound Control Unit]
The image / sound control unit 310 is a CPU that performs arithmetic processing when controlling the image and sound representing the contents of the effect, a ROM that stores programs executed by the CPU, various data, and the like, and a work for the CPU. RAM used as a memory or the like.
Then, the image / sound control unit 310 controls the image displayed on the image display unit 114 and the sound output from the speaker 156 based on the command sent from the effect control unit 300.

Specifically, in the ROM of the image / sound control unit 310, the background in the image display unit 114, decorative symbols for informing the player of the lottery result, characters and items, and special effect images used for special effects (described later) ) Etc. are stored. Furthermore, various kinds of acoustic data such as music and sound output from the speaker 156 in synchronization with the image data or independently of the image data, and sound effects such as jingles are stored. The CPU selects and reads out the data corresponding to the command sent from the effect control unit 300 from the image data and sound data stored in the ROM. Furthermore, using the read image data, image processing for background image display, symbol image display, symbol image fluctuation, character / item display, special effect image display (described later), and sound using the read acoustic data Process.
Then, the image / sound control unit 310 controls screen display on the image display unit 114 based on the image data subjected to image processing. Further, the sound output from the speaker 156 is controlled by the sound data subjected to the sound processing.
In the present embodiment, the image / sound controller 310 functions as effect image display means, special image display means, and simultaneous image display means.

[Configuration and function of lamp control unit]
The lamp control unit 320 includes a CPU 321 that performs arithmetic processing when controlling the operations of the panel lamp 116, the frame lamp 157, and the movable accessory 115, a ROM 322 that stores programs executed by the CPU 321, various data, and the like. And a RAM 323 used as a working memory for the CPU 321.
The lamp control unit 320 controls lighting / flashing of the panel lamp 116 and the frame lamp 157, the emission color, and the like based on the command sent from the effect control unit 300. In addition, the lamp control unit 320 controls the operations of the movable accessory 115 and the frame effect unit 165.

Specifically, the ROM 322 of the lamp control unit 320 stores lighting / flashing pattern data and emission color pattern data (emission pattern) for the panel lamp 116 and the frame lamp 157 according to the production contents set by the production control unit 300. Data) is stored. The CPU 321 selects and reads out the light emission pattern data stored in the ROM 322 corresponding to the command sent from the effect control unit 300. The lamp controller 320 controls the light emission of the panel lamp 116 and the frame lamp 157 based on the read light emission pattern data.
The ROM 322 of the lamp control unit 320 stores operation pattern data of the movable accessory 115 and the frame effect unit 165 according to the effect contents set by the effect control unit 300. The CPU 321 controls the operation of the movable accessory 115 and the frame effect unit 165 based on the read operation pattern data.

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

  The payout control unit 400 also includes a payout ball detection unit 412 that detects the number of prize balls actually paid out from the game ball storage unit by the payout drive unit 411, and a game ball in the storage unit (not shown). Sphere detection unit 413 for detecting whether or not there is storage, and detecting whether or not the upper plate 153 for holding a game ball used when a player plays or a prized ball is full Connected to the full tank detecting unit 414. Then, the payout control unit 400 receives detection signals detected by the payout ball detection unit 412, the ball presence detection unit 413, and the full tank detection unit 414, and performs predetermined processing according to these detection signals.

  Further, the payout control unit 400 is connected to a frame external information terminal board 450 that transmits various types of information to a host computer installed in the hall. Then, the payout control unit 400, for example, information on the number of prize balls instructed to pay out to the payout driving unit 411, information on the number of prize balls actually paid out detected by the payout ball detection unit 412, etc. Is transmitted to the host computer via the frame external information terminal board 450. Also, similar information is transmitted to the game control unit 200.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  In the random number update process (step 501), the random number control unit 242 of the game control unit 200 updates various random number values used in the process by the main control unit and the sub control unit.

As the switch process (step 502), a start port switch process and a gate switch process are performed.
In the start port switch process, the special symbol lottery unit 231 of the game control unit 200 monitors the states of the first start port switch 211 and the second start port switch 212 in FIG. Processing for symbol lottery is executed.
In the gate switch process, the normal symbol lottery unit 232 of the game control unit 200 monitors the state of the gate switch 214 in FIG. 3 and executes a process for the normal symbol lottery when the switch is turned on.

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

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

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

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

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

Next, the special symbol lottery unit 231 performs a pre-determination process for performing a notice effect of the lottery result on a winning ball (holding ball) for which a special symbol variation display operation is suspended (that is, an undrawn lottery). Perform (step 605). This pre-determination process is performed when the lottery result is determined not at the start of symbol variation but at the start opening prize (that is, at step 605), and for acquiring information to be used for the effect on the image display unit 114. It is. In addition, in the gaming machine that does not perform the notice effect of the lottery result, this prior determination process may be omitted.
Thereafter, the special symbol lottery unit 231 sets a command for increasing the number of held U1 to notify the effect control unit 300 of the increase in the number of held U1 in Step 603 in the RAM 203 (Step 606), and wins a prize at the first start port 121. The process for is terminated. When the preliminary determination process in step 605 is performed, the information on the determination result of the preliminary determination obtained in step 605 is included in the pending number U1 increase command.

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

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

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

[Gate switch processing in game control unit]
FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the contents of the gate switch process among the switch processes shown in step 502 of FIG.
In this gate switch process, the normal symbol lottery unit 232 of the game control unit 200 first determines whether or not the game ball passes through the gate 124 and the gate switch 214 is turned on (step 701). If the gate switch 214 is turned on, then the normal symbol lottery unit 232 determines whether or not the number of holds G for the undrawn lot is less than the upper limit value (step 702). In the example shown in FIG. 7, the upper limit value is four. If the number of holds G has reached the upper limit (No in Step 702), the winning for the undrawn lots cannot be held any more, so the gate switch process is terminated.

  On the other hand, when the number of reservations G is less than the upper limit (Yes in Step 702), the normal symbol lottery unit 232 next adds 1 to the value of the number of reservations G (Step 703). Then, a random value for the lottery by the current winning is obtained and stored in the RAM 203 (step 704). Here, since the gate 124 is won, a random number value (such as a winning random number) for normal symbol lottery is acquired. Thereafter, the pending number G increase command is set in the RAM 203 (step 705), and the gate switch processing is terminated.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  Referring to FIG. 17D, the range of the random number value is 10 from 0 to 9, and one value is assigned as the winning value when the time-short flag is OFF, and as the winning value when the time-short flag is ON. Nine values are assigned. Therefore, when the game ball passes through the gate 124 and the normal symbol lottery (open / close lottery) is performed when the short-time gaming state has not occurred, the player wins with a probability of 1/10. On the other hand, when the game ball passes through the gate 124 and the normal symbol lottery (open / close lottery) is performed when the short-time gaming state is occurring, the winning is performed with a probability of 9/10.

  These random number values start from a predetermined initial value and are incremented by one each time the random number update process (step 501) shown in FIG. 5 is performed. Then, the values at the time each lottery is performed are acquired by the start opening switch process (FIG. 6) and the gate switch process (FIG. 7), and used in the special symbol process (FIG. 8) and the normal symbol process (FIG. 13). The Note that this random value counter is an infinite loop counter, and returns to 0 again after reaching the maximum value of the set random number (for example, 299 for the big hit random number). In addition, since the random number update process is performed at regular intervals, if the initial value of each random number is specified, the winning value may be estimated based on such information. Therefore, in general, a mechanism for randomly changing the initial value of each random number at an appropriate timing has been introduced.

[Operation of production control unit]
Next, the operation of the effect control unit 300 will be described.
FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing the operation of the effect control unit 300 when a command is received from the game control unit 200.
The operation of the effect control unit 300 includes a main process shown in FIG. 18A and an interrupt process shown in FIG. Referring to FIG. 18A, the production control unit 300 first performs initial setting at the time of activation (step 1801), sets the cycle of the CTC (Counter / Timer Circuit) (step 1802), and then sets the cycle. Accordingly, the interrupt process is accepted while updating the random number used in the production control (step 1803).

  The interrupt process is periodically performed according to the period set in step 1802. Referring to FIG. 18B, in this interruption process, the effect control unit 300 receives a command from the game control unit 200 and performs a command reception process (step 1811). In this command reception process, an effect pattern is selected. Further, the effect control unit 300 performs a special effect process for executing the special effect at a predetermined date and time based on the time of the timer and the real time clock (step 1812). Further, the effect control unit 300 performs effect button processing for accepting operations such as effect buttons by the player (step 1813). Thereafter, the effect control unit 300 performs command transmission for transmitting a command including information on the selected effect pattern to the image / sound control unit 310 and the lamp control unit 320 (step 1814). As a result, effects such as image display and sound output on the image display unit 114, operations of the movable accessory 115 and the frame effect unit 165, light emission of the lamp, and the like are performed.

[Command reception processing by the production control unit]
FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing the contents of the command reception process (step 1811 in FIG. 18B).
In this command reception process, the effect control unit 300 first determines whether or not the received command is a command for increasing the number of holds (holding number increase command) (step 1901). This pending number increase command is set in the start port switch process shown in FIG. 6 in the game control unit 200 (steps 606 and 612), and transmitted to the effect control unit 300 in the output process (step 506) shown in FIG. Is done. If the command is an increase command for the number of holds (Yes in step 1901), the effect control unit 300 adds 1 to the value of the number of holds held in the RAM (step 1902), and shows the value of the number of hold after the addition. A number command is set in the RAM (step 1903).

When the received command is not a pending number increase command (No in step 1901), or when a command is received after setting the pending number increase command in step 1903, the effect control unit 300 determines whether or not the received command is a change start command. Is determined (step 1904). This variation start command is set in the special symbol process shown in FIG. 8 in the game control unit 200 (step 811), and transmitted to the effect control unit 300 in the output process (step 506) shown in FIG.
When the received command is a change start command (Yes in Step 1904), the effect control unit 300 executes an effect selection process (Step 1905). Details of the effect selection process will be described later.

When the received command is not a change start command (No in Step 1901 and Step 1904), or when a command is received after the execution selection process in Step 1905 is executed, the effect control unit 300 determines whether or not the received command is a change stop command. Is determined (step 1906). This variation stop command is set in the special symbol process shown in FIG. 8 in the game control unit 200 (step 814), and transmitted to the effect control unit 300 in the output process (step 506) shown in FIG.
When the received command is a variation stop command (Yes in Step 1906), the effect control unit 300 executes a process during the end of the variation effect (Step 1907). Details of the process during the end of the variation effect will be described later.

When the received command is not the change start command and the change stop command (No in Step 1901, Step 1904, and Step 1906), or when the command is received after the execution of the changing effect end process in Step 1907, the effect control unit 300 It is determined whether or not the received command is an opening command for starting the opening in the jackpot effect (step 1908). This opening command is set in the stop process shown in FIG. 11 (step 1118), and transmitted to the effect control unit 300 in the output process (step 506) shown in FIG.
When the received command is an opening command (Yes in Step 1908), the effect control unit 300 executes a hit effect selection process (Step 1909). Details of the winning effect selection process will be described later.

If the received command is not a change start command, change stop command, or opening command (No in step 1901, step 1904, step 1906, and step 1908), or if a command is received after the execution effect selection process in step 1909, Control unit 300 determines whether or not the received command is an ending command for starting the ending in the jackpot effect (step 1910). This ending command is set in the big prize opening process shown in FIG. 14 (step 1413), and is transmitted to the effect control unit 300 in the output process (step 506) shown in FIG.
If the received command is an ending command (Yes in Step 1910), the effect control unit 300 executes an ending effect selection process (Step 1911). Details of the ending effect selection process will be described later.

  If the received command is not a variation start command, variation stop command, opening command, or ending command (No in step 1901, step 1904, step 1906, step 1908, and step 1910), or after the end of the ending effect selection process in step 1911 Next, the effect control unit 300 executes a customer waiting command reception process for shifting the received command to the customer waiting state (step 1912). Details of the customer waiting command reception process will be described later.

FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating a setting example of the mode flag in the present embodiment.
When an effect is performed by the effect control unit 300, various effect patterns are selected and executed based on the operation mode set according to the lottery result of the special symbol lottery. This operation mode is determined by a mode flag set in the RAM. In the example shown in FIG. 20, five types of modes from A mode to E mode are set, and mode flag values 0 to 4 are assigned to each mode. The B mode is a jackpot of probability variation symbol A, the C mode is a bonus symbol of normal symbol A, the D mode is a jackpot of probability variation symbol B and normal symbol B, and the E mode is a jackpot of small probability probability symbol Each win is assigned. Here, the types of these symbols are the same as those shown in FIG. No hit is assigned to the A mode. Further, in the example shown in FIG. 20, the parameter M (M value) used in the process during the end of the changing effect is set individually for each mode except the A mode.

FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing the contents of the effect selection process (step 1905) of FIG.
In this effect selection process, the effect control unit 300 first analyzes the received variation start command (step 2101). Further, the effect control unit 300 refers to the current mode flag of the pachinko gaming machine 100 from the setting of the RAM (step 2102), and subtracts 1 from the value of the number of holdings held in the RAM (step 2103). Then, the effect control unit 300 is based on various setting information (information about jackpot type, gaming state after jackpot game, variation pattern, etc.) obtained from the analysis result of the variation start command and the operation mode determined by the mode flag. Then, a design variation effect pattern (variation effect pattern) is selected based on the image displayed on the image display unit 114 in the operation mode (step 2104). Finally, the effect control unit 300 reads image data and sound data used for the effect by the selected effect pattern from the ROM, and sets a change effect start command for instructing the execution start of the selected effect together with these data in the RAM. Then, the effect selection process ends (step 2105).

FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing the contents of the changing effect end process (step 1907) of FIG.
In the process during the end of the change effect, the effect control unit 300 first analyzes the received change stop command (step 2201). Further, the effect control unit 300 refers to the current mode flag of the pachinko gaming machine 100 from the setting of the RAM (step 2202). Then, the production control unit 300 determines whether or not the lottery result of the special symbol lottery is based on the information indicating the type of the symbol when the special symbol variation obtained from the analysis result of the variation stop command is stopped (big hit or small hit). It is determined whether or not (step 2203). If it is any hit (Yes in Step 2203), the mode flag set in the RAM is changed based on the setting example shown in FIG. 20 according to the type of hit (Step 2204).

  On the other hand, when the lottery result of the special symbol lottery is not successful (No in Step 2203), the effect control unit 300 next checks whether or not the value of the mode flag is 0 (Step 2205). When the mode flag is not 0 (No in Step 2205), the effect control unit 300 subtracts 1 from the parameter M (Step 2206), and checks whether the value of M has become 0 (Step 2207). If the value of M becomes 0 (Yes in Step 2207), the effect control unit 300 sets the mode flag to 0 (Step 2208).

  If the mode flag is 0 in Step 2205 (Yes in Step 2205), if the value of the parameter M is not 0 in Step 2207 (No in Step 2207), or the mode flag is set to 0 in Step 2208 After or after changing the mode flag in step 2204, the effect control unit 300 sets a change effect end command for instructing the end of the effect of symbol change in the RAM, and ends the process during the end of the change effect ( Step 2209). Here, referring to FIG. 20, when the mode flag is changed in step 2204, the operation mode after the end of the changing effect is an operation mode corresponding to the winning type. When the mode flag is 0 in step 2205 and when the mode flag is set to 0 in step 2208, the operation mode after the end of the changing effect is the A mode. On the other hand, if the value of the parameter M is not 0 in step 2207, the operation mode so far is continued.

FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing the contents of the hit effect selection process (step 1909) of FIG.
In this winning effect selection process, the effect control unit 300 first analyzes the received opening command (step 2301), and selects an effect pattern (winning effect pattern) according to the contents of the opening operation obtained from the analysis result. (Step 2302). Then, the effect control unit 300 reads image data and sound data used for the effect by the selected effect pattern from the ROM, and sets a hit effect start command for instructing the selected effect together with these data in the RAM. The effect selection process is terminated (step 2303). This winning effect is also called an opening effect.

FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing the contents of the ending effect selection process (step 1911) of FIG.
In this ending effect selection process, the effect control unit 300 first analyzes the received ending command (step 2401), and refers to the current mode flag of the pachinko gaming machine 100 from the RAM setting (step 2402). Next, the effect control unit 300 selects an effect pattern (ending effect pattern) according to the content of the ending operation obtained from the analysis result of the ending command (step 2403). Then, the effect control unit 300 reads image data and sound data used for the effect by the selected effect pattern from the ROM, and sets an ending effect start command for instructing the selected effect together with these data in the RAM. The effect selection process is terminated (step 2404).

FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing the contents of the customer waiting command reception process (step 1912) of FIG.
The production control unit 300 determines whether or not a customer waiting command for shifting to the customer waiting state has been received (step 2501). When the customer waiting command is received (Yes in Step 2501), the effect control unit 300 starts measuring the elapsed time (Step 2502) and turns on the measurement flag in the RAM (Step 2503). On the other hand, if the received command is not a customer waiting command (No in step 2501), it is determined whether or not the measurement flag held in the RAM is ON (step 2504). If the measurement flag is OFF (No in step 2504), the customer waiting command reception process is terminated.

  When the measurement flag is ON (Yes in step 2504 or after being turned ON in step 2503), the effect control unit 300 next determines whether or not the measurement time has reached a predetermined time-up time ( Step 2505). If the time is not up (No in step 2505), the customer waiting command reception process is terminated. On the other hand, when the time is up (Yes in Step 2505), the effect control unit 300 turns off the measurement flag held in the RAM (Step 2506), and sets a customer waiting effect command for performing the customer waiting effect in the RAM. Then, the customer waiting command reception process ends (step 2507).

  When the customer waiting command reception process is completed as described above, any one of a variation effect start command, a variation effect end command, a hit effect start command, an ending effect start command, and a customer wait effect command is set in the RAM. .

FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing the contents of the effect button process (step 1813 in FIG. 18B).
In the process during the end of the variation effect, the effect control unit 300 first determines whether or not an effect button or the like by the player has been operated (step 2601). Here, the operation of the effect button or the like includes turning on the effect button 161 and turning it on when the center key or the surrounding key of the effect key 162 is pressed. In addition, when an operation device other than the effect button 161 and the effect key 162 such as a touch panel is provided in the pachinko gaming machine 100, this includes detecting the operation of the device. The effect control unit 300 receives an operation signal from the controller of these devices and detects that an operation has been performed.

  If the effect button or the like is operated (Yes in step 2601), the effect control unit 300 sets an effect button command including information indicating the operation content of the effect button or the like in the RAM, and ends the effect button process (step). 2602).

  Thereafter, the effect control unit 300 performs the command transmission process (step 1814) of FIG. 18B, and the command set in the RAM by the above-described command reception process and effect button process, and the image / sound control unit 310 and Transmit to the lamp controller 320. Based on the received command, the image / sound control unit 310 and the lamp control unit 320 perform image display on the image display unit 114, sound output, operation of the movable accessory 115 and the frame effect unit 165, light emission of the lamp, and the like. Control and execute a preset effect.

[Special production process by production control unit]
Next, the special effect process executed according to step 1812 in the interrupt process (see FIG. 18B) will be described in detail.
FIG. 27 is a diagram for explaining the contents of the special effect process.
As shown in FIG. 27A, in the pachinko gaming machine 100 to which the present embodiment is applied, switching between the game effect mode and the special effect mode is performed by the special effect process.
(Game production mode)
The game effect mode is a mode for performing a game effect that is an effect performed based on the progress of the game based on the result of the lottery. In the game effect executed in this game effect mode, a game effect image that is an image (such as a lottery result) used for the game effect is displayed on the display screen 114a (see FIG. 1), and sound (such as a sound effect) used for the game effect is displayed. It flows from the speaker 156 (see FIG. 1).

(Special production mode)
The special effect mode is a mode for performing a special effect that is an effect executed separately from the effect performed based on the progress of the game based on the result of the lottery at a predetermined date and time. The special effect of this embodiment is, for example, to perform a musical performance that is a singing stage of a singer group. In the special effect, a special effect image that is an image (such as a stage image) used for the special effect is displayed on the display screen 114a, and sound (such as music) used for the special effect is played from the speaker 156.

  In the present embodiment, a special effect is performed by synchronizing a plurality of pachinko gaming machines 100. Normally, a plurality of pachinko gaming machines 100 of the same model in a hall are arranged in a state where a plurality of pachinko gaming machines 100 called islands are arranged in a line. Therefore, by performing the special effect by synchronizing the plurality of pachinko gaming machines 100, the special effect images are displayed simultaneously on the display screen 114a of the plurality of pachinko gaming machines 100, and the special effect images are displayed from the speakers 156 of the plurality of pachinko gaming machines 100. The sound used for production will be played all at once.

  As shown in FIG. 27A, the pachinko gaming machine 100 is set to the game effect mode when the power is turned on. Thereafter, the pachinko gaming machine 100 shifts from the game effect mode to the special effect mode at a predetermined time. When the special effect in the first special effect mode ends, the game effect mode is entered again. In this manner, in the pachinko gaming machine 100, the transition to the special effect mode is periodically performed a plurality of times in the time zone in which the player can play from the opening of the hall to the closing thereof.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 27 (a), the pachinko gaming machine 100 that is turned on at 9:30 and set in the game effect mode is the first time at 10:29. Transition to the special performance mode. When the special effect in the first special effect mode ends, the game effect mode is entered again. Furthermore, when it becomes 11:29, it shifts to the second special effect mode. When the special effect in the second special effect mode is completed, the game effect mode is entered again. Similarly, the transition to the final 12th special performance mode is executed at 21:29. Thus, in the pachinko gaming machine 100 of the present embodiment, the transition to the special effect mode is performed every hour so as to interrupt the game effect mode.

In this embodiment, the transition to the special effect mode is managed based on the time measured by the timer and the time of the real time clock (RTC).
First, the timing for shifting to the special effect mode is performed based on the time measured by the timer. In the present embodiment, the timer is set so as to start measurement when power is turned on for the pachinko gaming machine 100. Then, when the time measured by the timer reaches a predetermined time, the mode is shifted to the special effect mode. The predetermined time measured by this timer is set as many times as the number of times of transition to the special effect mode.

  For example, when the time measured by the timer reaches 0 ° 59'00 ", the first special effect mode is set. In this embodiment, the first special effect mode is changed. Is set to 10:29, and the pachinko machine 100 is turned on at 9:30, so that it can be shifted to the first special performance mode at 10:29 after 59 minutes. it can.

  As described above, in this embodiment, a special effect is performed by synchronizing a plurality of pachinko gaming machines 100. In general, the plurality of pachinko gaming machines 100 are turned on all at once in units of islands arranged in a line. Therefore, a plurality of pachinko gaming machines that are simultaneously turned on in units of islands by setting to shift to the special effect mode based on the measurement time of the timer triggered by power-on in each pachinko gaming machine 100 All the transition timings to the 100 special effect modes can be matched.

  Note that, based on the time of each real-time clock of each pachinko gaming machine 100, it may be configured to perform a synchronized effect of a plurality of pachinko gaming machines 100. However, in the real-time clock, there may be a slight time difference between a plurality of real-time clocks due to individual differences. Therefore, in the present embodiment, as described above, synchronization between a plurality of pachinko gaming machines 100 is achieved by shifting to the special effect mode based on the timer that starts measurement when power is turned on as described above. .

Moreover, in this embodiment, the production | presentation which performs the new song announcement of the above-mentioned singer group in a music performance mode is performed. A plurality of new songs (for example, 12 songs) are prepared in advance. In this embodiment, a plurality of prepared new songs are announced one after another every other week, so that all new songs are announced over 12 weeks.
The announcement of each new song is managed based on the date and time by a real time clock (RTC). For example, the first announcement of the new song A is made at 10:30 on August 1st. The first announcement of the new song B will be made at 10:30 on August 8th, one week later. In this case, based on the date and time of the real-time clock (RTC), a state of permitting the announcement of the new song A after 10:30 on August 1 is set. Moreover, the state which permits the announcement of the new song B after 10:30 on August 8 is set. In this way, by setting a state in which the announcement is permitted for each new song based on the date and time of the real time clock (RTC), the new song is announced at an unintended timing before the predetermined date and time. It is prevented.

Next, the special effect mode will be described in detail.
As shown in FIG. 27 (b), the special performance mode includes a performance notification mode for performing a performance announcement, which is a notification of a music performance, and a music performance mode for performing a music performance.
(Performance announcement mode)
The performance announcement mode is a mode set for a certain period before the set time of the music performance mode. In the present embodiment, the performance notification mode is set to a period from 60 seconds before the start time of the music performance to the start time of the music performance. In the performance notification mode, during this set period, performance notification is performed using a performance notification image P47 (see FIG. 28B described later) that displays a message that a music performance will be performed soon.
As will be described in detail later, the timing at which the performance is actually announced in the performance notification mode varies depending on the progress of the game based on the lottery result. Depending on the progress of the game based on the result of the lottery, the performance announcement may not be performed within the set time of the performance announcement mode.

  As shown in FIG. 27 (b), for example, the start time of the music performance in the first special performance mode is set to 10:30. Accordingly, the setting period of the first performance announcement mode is set to a period from 10:29 to 10:30. The performance announcement is executed at any timing in accordance with the progress of the game based on the lottery result during the period from 10:29 to 10:30. Note that, for example, whether or not the set time for the performance announcement mode in the first special performance mode has been reached is determined based on the elapsed time from the power-on measured by the timer as described above.

(Music performance mode)
The music performance mode is a mode in which a music performance is performed at a predetermined date and time. In the music performance mode, the music performance is always executed at a predetermined date and time, regardless of the progress of the game based on the result of the lottery, for example. In this embodiment, the music performance is set to be performed for 300 seconds.
As shown in FIG. 27 (b), the start time of the music performance in the first special performance mode is set to 10:30. Therefore, the first performance of the music starts at 10:30. Note that, for example, whether or not the start time of the music performance in the first special performance mode is reached is based on the elapsed time from the power-on measured by the timer as described above.

(Game composition mode screen configuration)
FIG. 28 is a diagram showing screen configurations in the game effect mode and the special effect mode.
As shown in FIG. 28 (a), on the display screen 114a in the game effect mode, a game effect image composed of element images such as a background P11, a decoration symbol P12, a reserved ball display P13, a character P14, and an item P15 is displayed. indicate. Then, using this game effect image, game effects are sequentially performed with a predetermined effect time based on the progress of the game based on the result of the lottery.

  The background P11 is formed over the entire screen. The background P11 constitutes a scene behind another element image, a frame of the display screen 114a, and the like. The decorative symbol P12, the reserved ball display P13, the character P14, the item P15, and the like are displayed so as to overlap the background P11.

The decorative symbol P12 is composed of three symbols. For example, a single digit of “1” to “9” is variably displayed on each symbol. When the decorative symbol changes, for example, the numerical value of each symbol is cyclically forwarded from the top to the bottom, and a display such as scrolling on the display screen 114a is performed. And the numerical value of each symbol is fixed in the stop symbol, and the lottery result of the special symbol lottery is presented by the combination of these numerical values. Usually, a stop symbol having three identical numbers is a symbol representing a hit.
Then, as shown in FIG. 28 (a), the decoration design P12 in the game effect mode displays decorations on numbers and displays the face images of members of the singer group on the numbers. In the illustrated example, numbers are displayed for each symbol, but various symbols such as characters, symbols, and marks other than numbers may be displayed.

The holding ball display P13 is composed of, for example, four marks. Each mark is increased or decreased according to the number of holdings. For example, one mark is displayed if the number of holds is one, and four marks are displayed if the number of holds is four.
And since the theme of the pachinko gaming machine 100 of the present embodiment is a singer group, the reserved ball display P13 in the game effect mode is constituted by marks with a recording disk as a motif.

The character P14 operates on the display screen 114a to provide information to the player. In the present embodiment, an image simulating a fan of a singer group is displayed as the character P14.
Moreover, in this embodiment, the result of the preliminary determination process (refer step 605, 611 of FIG. 6) as a notice effect of a lottery result, for example is displayed using the character P14 and the holding ball display P13. For example, the character P14 operates so as to throw a heart. Further, under certain conditions, the thrown “heart” is caught by a specific mark constituting the holding ball display P13. In this way, the lottery result of the reserved ball of the specific mark displayed together with the “heart” suggests that there is a high possibility that it will be a big hit, for example.

  The item P15 is an image displayed on the display screen 114a under certain conditions. In the present embodiment, for example, by causing the item P15 to appear, for example, the reliability of the jackpot of the lottery result in the current symbol variation is suggested.

(Screen configuration of special production mode)
As shown in FIGS. 28B and 28C, the display screen 114a in the special effect mode has a game effect image composed of element images such as the background P21, the decorative symbol P22, and the reserved ball display P23. indicate. In the special effect mode, the game effect is performed using the game effect image.
Further, a special effect image constituted by element images of the performance announcement image P47 and the music performance image P48 is displayed on the display screen 114a in the special effect mode. In the special effect mode, a special effect is performed using the special effect image.

In the special effect mode, a special effect image is displayed in an area (hereinafter referred to as “special effect area A1”) and a game effect image is displayed (hereinafter referred to as “game effect area A2”). An area division display in which the area of the screen 114a is divided is performed. In the present embodiment, the game effect area A2 has a smaller area than the special effect area A1.
In the special effect mode, as shown in FIGS. 28B and 28C, the special effect image is displayed in the special effect area A1 and the game effect image is displayed in the game effect area A2, respectively. The image and the game effect image are displayed simultaneously on the display screen 114a.

  The background P21 is formed over the entire screen as shown in FIGS. 28 (b) and 28 (c). The background P21 is displayed in each of the special effect area A1 and the game effect area A2 and constitutes a scene behind. The background P21 also constitutes an image that displays the boundary between the special effect area A1 and the game effect area A2 in the area division display.

  The decorative design P22 is displayed in the game effect area A2 as shown in FIG. The decorative symbol P22 is displayed smaller than the decorative symbol P12 in the game effect mode. In addition, the decorative symbol P22 in the special effect mode is simplified than the decorative symbol P12 in the game effect mode. In the present embodiment, the decorative design P22 is expressed by a dot display constituted by a set of a plurality of dots. Thus, unlike the decoration design P12 in the game effect mode, the decoration design P22 in the special effect mode is configured by a simple display that does not involve display of numbers or display of character images.

  The reserved ball display P23 is displayed in the game effect area A2 as shown in FIG. The holding ball display P23 is displayed smaller than the holding ball display P13 in the game effect mode. Further, the holding ball display P23 is more simplified than the holding ball display P13 in the game effect mode. For example, unlike the reserved ball display P13 in the game effect mode, the reserved ball display P23 is configured by a simple circle that is not decorated.

  In the present embodiment, the game effect area A2 is set to have a smaller area than the special effect area A1. Along with this, the display of the decorative pattern P22 and the reserved ball display P23 becomes relatively small. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the display of the decorative symbols P22 and the reserved ball display P23 is simplified without being complicated so that the player can easily recognize the decorative symbols P22 and the reserved ball display P23 displayed in a small size.

  In the special effect mode, display of the character P14 and the item P15 displayed in the game effect mode is prohibited. In the special effect mode, the game effect area A2 has a smaller area than the special effect area A1. Therefore, in the present embodiment, based on the priority of whether the information is important for the player, only a part of the information included in the element images constituting the game effect image displayed on the display screen 114a in the game effect mode is displayed. Like to do.

  For example, the decoration symbol P22 or the like displays the result of the lottery in the game and is important information for the player. Further, the holding ball display P23 is information for informing the number of lotteries held and is considered to have high priority for the player. On the other hand, for example, the character P14 has a low priority as important information for the player when compared with the decorative pattern P22 that displays the lottery result itself. In the present embodiment, in the special effect mode, only the decorative symbol P22 and the reserved ball display P23 having higher priority among the game effect images are displayed.

The performance announcement image P47 is a special performance announcement image as shown in FIG. The performance announcement image P47 is displayed in the special effect area A1. The performance announcement image P47 displays the name of the song to be announced (“Midsummer Fever” in the figure) and the remaining time (“48 seconds” in the example in the figure) until the performance announcement is started.
By performing the performance notification using the performance notification image P47, it is possible to know in advance that a special performance different from the game proceeding according to the result of the lottery is performed for the player who is playing the game. Moreover, in the pachinko gaming machine 100 in which no game is performed, it can be expected that a player is invited to the pachinko gaming machine 100 by a performance announcement.

  The music performance image P48 is an effect image of a special performance music performance, as shown in FIG. The music performance image P48 is displayed in the special effect area A1. In this embodiment, the music performance image P48 is an image configured by a singing stage by a singer group. Note that music is played from the speaker 156 (see FIG. 1) in synchronization with the display of the music performance image P48.

(Operation of special effect processing)
FIG. 29 is a flowchart showing the contents of the special effect process.
Based on the measurement of the timer, it is determined whether it is the set time for the special performance mode (step 2901). In the present embodiment, the determination as to whether it is the set time for the special performance mode is made based on whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed when the timer is turned on.

If it is the set time for the special effect mode (Yes in step 2901), the process shifts to the special effect mode (step 2902). Specifically, as described with reference to FIGS. 28B and 28C, the display screen 114a is shifted to the area division display. Then, the performance announcement image P47 and the music performance image P48 are displayed in the special effect area A1 of the area division display. In addition, the music sound is played from the speaker 156 in synchronization with these images. Thus, in the special performance mode, performance announcements and music performances are executed. Further, a game effect image such as a decorative symbol P22 is displayed at the same time in the game effect area A2 of the area division display. The lottery game by the player is performed by the game effect image displayed in the game effect area A2.
On the other hand, if the set time for the special effect mode has not been reached (No in step 2901), the determination of the passage of time based on the timer is continued.

  Thereafter, it is determined whether or not the special effect in the special effect mode has ended (step 2903). In the present embodiment, the special performance mode has a predetermined performance time (for example, a performance notification time of 60 seconds and a music performance time of 300 seconds). Then, the end time of the special effect is determined based on whether or not the effect time has elapsed. If the special effect in the special effect mode has not ended (No in step 2903), the special effect mode is continuously performed.

On the other hand, when the end time of the special effect mode has been reached (Yes in Step 2903), the game effect mode is entered (Step 2904). Thereafter, while performing the game effect in the game effect mode, the process returns to step 2901 to determine again whether or not it is the set time of the special effect mode. At this time, it is determined whether or not the set time of the second special effect mode has been reached.
As described above, the setting time for the special effect mode provided a plurality of times in a day is determined, and the special effect mode is sequentially shifted between the game effect modes.

(Processing when symbol variation does not end before special performance mode)
By the way, there is a case where the symbol variation which is the variation of the decorative symbol P12 displayed on the display screen 114a in the game rendering does not end by the set time of the special performance mode. In such a case, if the display of the screen is switched to, for example, area division display (see FIG. 28B) at the time when the special effect start time is reached, the player can understand the result of the symbol variation. It becomes difficult.
Therefore, in the present embodiment, the reduced special effect image is superimposed and displayed on the game effect image under certain conditions such that the symbol variation does not end by the set time of the special effect mode.

FIG. 30 is a diagram showing a screen configuration when the symbol variation does not end by the set time of the special effect mode.
For example, as shown in FIG. 30 (a), a reduced performance announcement image P47 is displayed in a superimposed manner on a game effect image such as a decorative symbol P12 that is displayed continuously from the game effect mode. Further, as shown in FIG. 30 (b), a reduced music performance image P48 is displayed in a superimposed manner on a game effect image such as a decorative design P12 that is continuously displayed from the game effect mode.

As shown in FIGS. 30A and 30B, in the present embodiment, when the reduced special effect image is displayed in a superimposed manner on the game effect image, the game effect image is configured by the special effect image. Part of the element image is hidden.
When a part of the game effect image is hidden due to the overlap of the special effect images, information having a relatively low priority for the player is hidden among the information related to the lottery result. In the present embodiment, for example, the item P15 among the element images constituting the game effect image corresponds to information having a relatively low priority for the player. Therefore, as shown in FIGS. 30A and 30B, the special effect image is displayed at the position where the item P15 is displayed.
Further, in the case where the special effect image overlaps high priority information such as the decoration symbol P11 among the element images constituting the game effect image, for example, as shown in FIGS. 30 (a) and 30 (b), The special effect image is displayed at a position where the symbols (numbers) of the decorative symbol P11 overlap so that the player can recognize them.

Next, the display mode when the symbol variation does not end before the special effect mode will be specifically described based on the timing.
FIG. 31 is a timing chart of symbol variation and special effects (performance announcement and music performance).
FIGS. 31A to 31C are timing charts of three cases when the symbol variation does not stop by the start time of the special effect. FIG. 31A is a timing chart when the symbol variation ends by the start time of the music performance, but the symbol variation does not end by the start time of the performance announcement. FIG. 31B is a timing chart in the case where the change does not end by the start time of the music performance, but the symbol change delimiter is by the start time of the music performance. Further, FIG. 31 (c) is a timing chart in the case where the variation does not end by the start time of the music performance and there is no symbol variation delimiter.
In addition, as an example of the delimiter of symbol variation, for example, in a series of symbol variation effects that develop from a normal reach with a relatively low expectation of jackpot to a so-called super reach with a scene change and a relatively high expectation of jackpot For example, when the scene changes.

  As shown in FIG. 31 (a), when the symbol variation does not end by the set time of the performance announcement mode but ends by the start time of the music performance, the display screen 114a is displayed at the timing when the symbol variation ends. Is shifted to the area division display. Then, the performance announcement image P47 is displayed in the special effect area A1 of the area division display (see FIG. 28B). Thereafter, when the start time of the music performance is reached, the music performance image P48 is displayed in the special effect area A1 of the area division display (see FIG. 28C).

  In addition, as shown in FIG. 31 (b), when the symbol variation does not stop by the start time of the music performance, and there is a symbol variation break before the music performance start time, the timing of the symbol variation break Then, the reduced performance announcement image P47 is displayed superimposed on the game effect image that is continuously displayed before the transition to the special effect mode (see FIG. 30A). Thereafter, the music performance image P48 reduced in place of the reduced performance announcement image P47 is superimposed and displayed on the game effect image continuously displayed before the transition to the special effect mode at the start time of the music performance (see FIG. 30 (b)). Furthermore, after that, at the timing when the symbol variation stops, the mode of the display screen 114a is shifted to the area division display. Then, the music performance image P48 is displayed in the special effect area A1, and the game effect image is displayed in the game effect area A2 (see FIG. 28C).

  Then, as shown in FIG. 31 (c), when the symbol variation does not end by the start time of the music performance and the symbol variation is not divided, the performance notification image P47 is not displayed. Then, at the start time of the music performance, the reduced music performance image P48 is superimposed and displayed on the game effect image continuously displayed before the transition to the special performance mode (see FIG. 28C). Thereafter, the music performance image P48 is displayed in the special effect area A1 of the area division display at the timing when the symbol variation is stopped (see FIG. 28C).

FIG. 32 is a flowchart showing the contents of the screen display process corresponding to the symbol variation.
It is determined whether or not one symbol change is completed by the set time of the performance announcement (step 3201). The variation time of the symbol can be grasped by referring to the variation pattern (step 2101 in FIG. 21) selected based on the variation start command and the operation mode in the effect selection process.
If one symbol change is completed by the start time of the performance announcement (Yes in step 3201), the display screen 114a is switched to the area division display at the start time of the performance announcement, and the performance announcement is displayed in the area division display. The image P47 is displayed and a performance announcement is made (step 3202). Further, at the start time of the music performance, the music performance image P48 is displayed in the area division display and the music performance is executed (step 3203).

If one symbol variation does not end by the start time of the performance announcement (No in step 3201), it is determined whether or not the symbol variation ends by the start time of the music performance (step 3204).
If one symbol variation ends by the start time of the music performance (Yes in step 3204), the timing for the symbol variation to end is determined (step 3205). If the symbol variation is completed (Yes in Step 3205), the process proceeds to Step 3202. Then, the performance announcement image P47 is displayed in the area division display and the performance announcement is executed (step 3202), and the music performance image P48 is displayed in the area division display and the music performance is executed (step 3203). If the symbol variation has not ended in step 3205, the determination of the timing at which the symbol variation ends is continued again (step 3205).

On the other hand, if one symbol variation does not end by the start time of the music performance (No in step 3204), it is determined whether or not there is a production break in the symbol variation by the start time of the music performance (step 3206). ).
If there is a break in the effect due to the symbol variation (Yes in step 3206), the performance announcement image P47 is not displayed until the symbol variation break, but the game effect image that displays the symbol variation at the timing of the symbol variation break. The performance notification image P47 reduced in size is displayed in a superimposed manner to perform the performance notification (step 3207). Further, at the timing of the start of the music performance, the music performance image P48 reduced to the game effect image displaying the symbol variation is superimposed and displayed to perform the music performance (step 3208).

Then, the timing at which the symbol variation ends is determined (step 3209). If the symbol variation has been completed (Yes at step 3209), the process proceeds to step 3203. In step 3203, a music performance is performed by displaying the music performance image P48 in the area division display.
If the symbol variation has not ended (No in Step 3209), the music performance image P48 is displayed continuously in a reduced display (Step 3208).

On the other hand, when there is no break in the effect due to the decorative symbol variation (No in step 3206), the performance announcement is not performed. Then, at the timing of starting the music performance, the reduced music performance image P48 is superimposed and displayed on the display screen 114a along with the design variation to perform the music performance (step 3208). If the symbol variation has been completed (Yes in Step 3209), the process proceeds to Step 3203. Thereafter, the music performance image P48 is displayed in the area division display and the music performance is performed.
If the symbol variation has not ended (No in Step 3209), the music performance image P48 is displayed continuously in a reduced display (Step 3208).

  As described above, when the symbol variation does not end by the set time of the special effect mode, the decorative symbol P12 displayed in the game effect mode before the transition to the special effect mode is completed until the symbol variation is completed. The game effect image is continuously displayed as it is. As a result, since the symbol variation can be displayed without interruption, the player can enjoy the lottery game. On the other hand, since the special effect image is also displayed, the player can enjoy both effects.

  In the present embodiment, the music performance is always started at a predetermined time. On the other hand, the performance announcement is for announcement of the music performance, and the priority as the performance to be executed is set lower than that of the music performance. For this reason, the performance announcement is executed as much as possible within a range where there is no influence on the effect of the symbol variation, such as after the symbol variation ends or at the timing of the symbol variation delimiter. Thus, in this embodiment, the player can enjoy both the game effect and the special effect in a well-balanced manner.

(Processing of game effects performed when shifting to the special performance mode)
Subsequently, a game effect performed when the mode is shifted to the special effect mode will be described.
FIG. 33 is a timing chart of symbol variation, jackpot game effect, and special effect.
In this embodiment, even when the special effect is executed in the special effect mode, the special effect and the game effect are performed (for example, see FIG. 28B and FIG. 28C). Then, during the transition to the special effect mode, the decorative symbols P22 are all stopped (at the time of the arrow “A” in the figure), and the jackpot game effect is generated (at the time of the arrow “I” in the figure). ).
This aspect has a large profit for the player and a high priority as an effect. Therefore, in this embodiment, in these aspects, the game effect is given priority over the special effect.
In the following, an effect performed at the time point of arrow A in FIG. 33 and an effect based on the time point of arrow A in FIG. 33 will be described in order.

FIG. 34 is a diagram for explaining an effect when the decorative symbols P22 are aligned in the special effect mode. For comparison, FIG. 34 (a) shows an effect mode in the case where the decorative symbols P12 are arranged in the game effect mode, and FIG. 34 (b) shows a case in which the decorative symbols P12 are arranged in the special effect mode. The effect mode is displayed.
As shown in FIG. 34 (a), in the game effect mode, the movable accessory 115 moves to the front of the image display unit 114 at the timing when the decorative symbols P12 are aligned. Furthermore, in the pachinko gaming machine 100 of the present embodiment, the effect image P51 that displays the periphery of the movable accessory 115 brightly so as to emphasize the movable accessory 115 is displayed on the display screen 114a.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 34 (b), in the special effect mode, the movable accessory 115 moves to the front of the image display unit 114 at the timing when the decorative symbols P22 are aligned, as in the game effect mode. Furthermore, also in the special effect mode, the effect image P51 that displays the periphery of the movable accessory 115 brightly so as to emphasize the movable accessory 115 is displayed on the display screen 114a. At this time, the effect image P51 is displayed so as to overlap the performance announcement image P47 and the music performance image P48. That is, at this timing, the game effect image is displayed with priority over the special effect image.

As described above, when the transition is made to the special effect mode, the game effect image such as the decoration symbol P22 is displayed smaller than the game effect image such as the decoration symbol P12 displayed in the game effect mode. On the other hand, special effect images such as the performance announcement image P47 and the music performance image P48 are displayed relatively large. Therefore, in the special effect mode, it is difficult for the player to notice the alignment of the decorative symbols P22.
Therefore, in the present embodiment, even after the transition to the special effect mode, the effect image P51 for operating the movable accessory 115 and highlighting the movable accessory 115 is displayed on the screen of the image display unit 114 as in the game effect mode. By displaying on the display, it is presented to the player that the decorative symbols P22 are complete.

Next, an effect in the case of shifting to the jackpot gaming state when shifting to the special effect mode will be described as an effect based on the time point of arrow A in FIG.
FIG. 35 is a diagram for explaining a display image when the game effect mode is shifted to the jackpot gaming state. FIG. 36 is a diagram for explaining a display image when the game is shifted to the jackpot gaming state in the special effect mode.
In the following description, the images used to produce the jackpot gaming state are collectively referred to as “jackpot gaming images”. The jackpot game image includes a round display image P61, an information image P62, a lively image P63, and a game effect image P64. These images will be specifically described later.

First, a jackpot game image in the game effect mode will be described for comparison with reference to FIG. FIG. 35 shows an example in which a big hit of 8 rounds occurs.
As shown in FIG. 35, a round display image P61 for displaying the number of rounds in each round is displayed. Here, the round display images P61 displayed as “Round 1” to “Round 8” are sequentially displayed for each round.

  By winning the jackpot, the opening is displayed first. In the example of FIG. 35, “Right-handed!” Is used in order to inform the player that the lottery result is a big hit by the characters “Big jackpot!” And that a game ball is being fired toward the right half of the gaming area 111. The information image P62 informing the instruction information “is displayed.

  Then, from round 1 to round 3, an effect is made using a lively image P63 having a content that enlivens the big hit. In the example of FIG. 35, the lively image P63 displays a message celebrating the jackpot by the character.

  In addition, from round 4 to round 7, a game is executed in which the type of jackpot is notified. This game is played using the game effect image P64. For example, the game effect image P64 displays “challenge chance” in the round 4 and notifies that the game will be started. In addition, the game effect image P64 displays the message “Press the button to clear it!” In round 5 and in this embodiment, the game is played by pressing the effect button 161 (see FIG. 2B). Explain the contents. Then, the game effect image P64 causes the game to be actually played in round 6. Further, the game effect image P64 informs that, in this example, the game effect image P64 is “a big hit where a short-time gaming state occurs” by a display such as “determined short time”.

  Then, in the final round 8, an information image P62 is displayed that clearly indicates the shift to the time-saving mode in which the time-saving gaming state is reached after the jackpot game ends, and an ending that ends the effect of the jackpot game is displayed.

On the other hand, when the jackpot game effect is performed during the transition to the special effect mode, the special effect images such as the performance announcement image P47 and the music performance image P48 are displayed on the display screen 114a.
Therefore, in the pachinko gaming machine 100 according to the present embodiment, when a jackpot game effect is performed when shifting to the special effect mode, a specific image among images constituting the jackpot game image is determined according to a predetermined condition. The entire display screen 114a is displayed, or the display of a specific image among the images constituting the jackpot game image is omitted. Further, the performance notification image P47 and the music performance image P48 are displayed in a reduced size or the performance notification image P47 and the music performance image P48 as a whole are displayed according to the display mode of the jackpot game image.
Here, among the images constituting the jackpot game image, the condition for selecting a specific image to be displayed or omitted as a whole is an image including information that influences the number of balls for the player. Set based on.

  As shown in FIG. 36, when the big hit game effect is performed when the mode is shifted to the special effect mode, the round display image P61 is displayed in each round. The round display image P61 shows the number of rounds that the special winning opening 125 opens, and includes information that influences the number of balls to be played by the player. Accordingly, the round display image P61 is displayed on the display screen 114a.

  In addition, in the opening, the information image P62 notifies that the lottery result is a big hit with the characters “big hit !!”. Further, the information image P62 presents “right-handed” information to inform the player that a game ball is to be launched toward the right half side of the game area 111. These information images P62 are displayed for a player who is in a big hit gaming state and the big prize opening 125 is opened, and that a game ball is launched toward the big prize opening 125 located on the right side of the gaming area 111. It contains information that affects the number of spheres. For this reason, the information image P62 is displayed large overall on the display screen 114a. On the other hand, the music performance image P48 is reduced and displayed superimposed on the information image P62.

  And in round 1-round 3, the display of the boost image P63 (refer FIG. 35) which excites the jackpot currently displayed in the game production mode is not performed. The player recognizes that the game has already shifted to the jackpot gaming state due to the opening effect, and can directly confirm that the round display image P61 and the big prize opening 125 are opened for a certain period of time. For this reason, the smashing image P63 that simply raises the jackpot does not include information that influences the number of balls for the player. That is, it is considered that the display priority of the lively image P63 is lower than that of other jackpot game images. Therefore, in this embodiment, the display of the raised image P63 is omitted. At this time, conversely, the music performance image P48 is displayed large overall on the display screen 114a.

In addition, the game effect image P64 that produces the game played from round 4 to round 7 and the information image P62 that reports the type of jackpot played in round 8 include information that affects the number of balls played for the player. Conceivable. Therefore, in this embodiment, the game effect image P64 and the information image P62 are displayed entirely on the display screen 114a. On the other hand, the music performance image P48 is reduced and displayed superimposed on the game effect image P64.
As shown in FIG. 36, after the jackpot gaming state is finished (after the final round is finished), the music performance image P48 is displayed entirely on the display screen 114a.

FIG. 37 is an operation flow in the case of shifting to the jackpot gaming state in the special effect mode.
After shifting to the special effect mode (step 3701), it is determined whether or not a big hit gaming state has occurred (step 3702). If it is determined in step 3702 that the game state has not shifted to the jackpot gaming state (No in step 3702), the determination as to whether or not the jackpot gaming state is continued. Whether or not the big hit gaming state has occurred is determined by referring to the mode flag.

  If it is determined that the game state has shifted to the jackpot game state (Yes in step 3702), the special electric player such as opening the jackpot 125 is controlled, and a display screen using the jackpot game image The jackpot game effect at 114a is executed (step 3703). The contents of this jackpot game effect are executed based on the effect pattern (hit effect pattern) selected according to the contents of the opening operation obtained from the analysis result of the opening command (step 2302 in FIG. 23). .

Thereafter, it is determined whether or not the image constituting the jackpot game image to be displayed in the selected winning effect pattern includes predetermined information (step 3704). In the present embodiment, as described above, the condition is whether or not the image to be displayed includes high priority information for the player who influences the number of balls to be played. Specifically, as described with reference to FIG. 36, this condition is satisfied when the images to be displayed are the round display image P61, the information image P62, and the game effect image P64.
If the image constituting the jackpot game image to be displayed includes predetermined information (Yes in step 3704), the jackpot game image is displayed entirely on the display screen 114a, and the special effect image is displayed. The image is reduced and displayed superimposed on the jackpot game image (step 3705).

  On the other hand, when the image constituting the jackpot game image to be displayed does not include predetermined information (No in step 3704), the jackpot game image is not displayed and the special effect image is displayed as a whole. (Step 3706).

  After the display in step 3705 or step 3706 is completed, it is determined whether there is another jackpot game image to be displayed in the jackpot game effect (step 3707). If there is another jackpot game image to be displayed (Yes in step 3707), the process proceeds to step 3704. On the other hand, if there is no other jackpot game image to be displayed (No in step 3707), the special effect image is displayed entirely on the display screen 114a.

  As described above, when shifting to the jackpot game state in the special effect mode, basically, the jackpot game image is displayed as a whole and the special effect image is reduced and displayed. Depending on the contents of the images constituting the jackpot game image, the display of a part of the image constituting the jackpot game image to be displayed when the jackpot game state is shifted in the game effect mode may be omitted, and the special effect image may be displayed as a whole. To be displayed. Thereby, the player can enjoy both the game effect and the special effect as appropriate.

  In the above description, the jackpot effect is described as an example of the game effect executed in the special effect mode, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the present invention can also be applied to a case where a game effect such as a probability change notification that is performed in the state of transitioning to the special effect mode is performed. That is, for example, when performing a game effect such as performing a mini game and notifying the probability variation state according to the result of the game, the special effect image is reduced and displayed while the game effect screen is displayed as a whole. In addition, in the state where the game and the probability change notification are not performed, the special effect is displayed as a whole. Even with this configuration, the player can appropriately enjoy both the game effect and the special effect.

Subsequently, display of image data in the pachinko gaming machine 100 of the present embodiment will be described.
[Hardware configuration of production control unit]
FIG. 38 is a hardware configuration diagram for displaying an image on the display screen 114a.
The effect control board 10 shown in FIG. 38A realizes the functions of the effect control unit 300 and the image / sound control unit 310 shown in FIG.
In FIG. 38A, the effect control board 10 has a system controller (indicated as a syscon CPU in FIG. 38A, hereinafter referred to as a syscon) 11 and a syscon 11 as control means corresponding to the effect control unit 300. The control ROM 12 is provided. In addition, the effect control board 10 is an effect control CPU 13, a control ROM 14 for the effect control CPU 13, a VDP (Video Display Processor) 15, an image data RAM 16, and an image as control means corresponding to the image / sound control unit 310. A data ROM 17, a sound IC 18, a sound data RAM 19 and a sound data ROM 20 are provided.
Further, the effect control board 10 includes a lamp control board I / F 20 (connector 20a), a main control board I / F 21, an LCD I / F 22, and an audio drive board I / F 23 as external interfaces.

  The effect control board 10 is connected to a main control board (not shown) that realizes the function of the game control unit 200 shown in FIG. Here, the LCD 28 constitutes the image display unit 114 shown in FIGS. 1 and 3. The sound driving board 29 constitutes the speaker 156 shown in FIGS. 1 and 3.

In FIG. 38A, the program executed by the syscon 11 is stored in the control ROM 12 of the effect control board 10. The control ROM 14 stores a program executed by the effect control CPU 13. The image data ROM 17 stores image data displayed on the LCD 28. In actual image output, in order to improve the data reading speed, for example, necessary image data is read into the image data RAM 16 for each effect to be executed, and the VDP 15 receives desired sound data from the image data RAM 16. Is read.
The sound data ROM 20 stores sound data output via the sound drive board 29. It should be noted that when outputting sound during an actual game, in order to improve the data reading speed, for example, necessary sound data is read into the sound data RAM 19 for each effect to be executed, and the sound IC 18 is read from the sound data RAM 19. Read out desired sound data.

The syscon 11 implements the function of the effect control unit 300 by executing a program stored in the control ROM 12. The effect control CPU 13 implements the function of the image / sound control unit 310 by executing a program stored in the control ROM 14.
Further, the syscon 11 and the effect control CPU 13 do not need to be physically provided on one substrate, and may be physically provided on a plurality of substrates.

  As shown in FIG. 38B, the image data RAM 16 includes a first VRAM (Video RAM) 16a and a second VRAM 16b. The first VRAM 16a is set so as to expand image data set to be displayed entirely on the screen of the image display unit 114. Further, the second VRAM 16b is set so as to expand the image data reduced by the image scaling process. Each image data developed in the first VRAM 16a and the second VRAM 16b is transferred to the LCD 28 at a predetermined timing.

FIG. 39 is a diagram for explaining a screen configuration displayed on the display screen 114a.
For example, in the game effect mode, basically, the game effect image is displayed entirely on the display screen 114a. In this case, as shown in FIG. 39A, the image on the display screen 114a is configured by superimposing a background P11, a decorative pattern P12, a holding ball display P13, a character P14, and an item P15 that are displayed as a whole.
Further, for example, under certain conditions in the special effect mode, a game effect image and a reduced special effect image are displayed on the display screen 114a. In this case, as shown in FIG. 39 (a), the image on the display screen 114a includes a background P11, a decorative pattern P12, a holding ball display P13, a character P14, and an item P15 that are displayed as a whole, and a reduced special effect. It is configured by superimposing images (performance announcement image P47 and music performance image P48).

  In the special effect mode, basically, the game effect image and the special effect image are displayed entirely on the display screen 114a. In this case, as shown in FIG. 39 (b), the image on the display screen 114a includes a background P21, a decorative pattern P22, a holding ball display P23, and a special effect image (performance announcement image P47, music performance) that are displayed as a whole. It is configured by superimposing images P48).

  For example, as shown in FIG. 39A, in order to display the game effect image as a whole in the game effect mode, the image data of the background P11, the decorative symbol P12, the holding ball display P13, the character P14, and the item P15 is used as image data. All the image data is read out from the ROM 17 and developed in the first VRAM 16a. Then, by transferring the image data developed in the first VRAM 16a to the LCD 28 at a predetermined timing, it is possible to display the game effect image as a whole on the display screen 114a. In this case, the second VRAM 16b is not used.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 39 (a), in order to display the game effect image as a whole in the special effect mode and to display the reduced special effect image in a superimposed manner, the background P11, the decorative symbol P12, the reserved ball The image data of the display P13, the character P14, and the item P15 is read from the image data ROM 17, and all these image data are developed in the first VRAM 16a. Further, the performance announcement image P47 or the music performance image P48 is read from the image data ROM 17 and developed in the second VRAM 16b. The performance announcement image P47 or the music performance image P48 is reduced by the image scaling process before being developed in the second VRAM 16b.

  Then, by transferring the image data developed in the first VRAM 16a and the image data developed in the second VRAM 16b to the LCD 28 at a predetermined timing, the game effect image displayed on the display screen 114a as a whole is displayed. The reduced music performance image P48 can be superimposed and displayed simultaneously.

Further, for example, as shown in FIG. 39 (b), in the special effect mode, in order to display the special effect image and the game effect image on the report screen as a whole, the background P21, the decorative symbol P22, and the performance announcement image P47 are displayed. Alternatively, the image data of the music performance image P48 is read from the image data ROM 17, and all these image data are developed in the first VRAM 16a.
Then, by transferring the image data developed in the first VRAM 16a to the LCD 28 at a predetermined timing, the special effect image and the game effect image can be displayed on the display screen 114a as a whole.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, by switching between the first VRAM 16a and the second VRAM 16b which are read from the image data ROM 17 and developed, for example, the special effect image is displayed as a whole or reduced. can do. In this way, for example, the image can be reduced or displayed as a whole simply by switching the expansion destination address to the RAM relating to the image data, so that the program can be simplified. .

Embodiment 2
In Embodiment 1 mentioned above, a game effect image is mainly displayed on the display screen 114a of the image display part 114. FIG. On the other hand, in the pachinko gaming machine 100 to which Embodiment 2 described below is applied, the special effect image is mainly displayed on the display screen 114a.
In the description of the second embodiment, the same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof is omitted.

(Game composition mode screen configuration)
FIG. 40 is a diagram illustrating screen configurations of the game effect mode and the special effect mode according to the second embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 40 (a), on the display screen 114a in the game effect mode, there is a game effect image composed of element images such as the background P11, the decoration symbol P12, the reserved ball display P13, the character P14, and the item P15. Is displayed. And also in the game effect mode to which Embodiment 2 is applied, the game effect performed sequentially with the effect time predetermined based on the progress of the game by the result of the lottery is performed using these element images.

(Screen configuration of special production mode)
As shown in FIG. 40 (b), on the display screen 114a in the special effect mode, a game effect image composed of element images such as the background P21, the decorative symbol P22, and the reserved ball display P23 is displayed. Furthermore, the special effect image which is the performance notification image P47 or the music performance image P48 is displayed on the display screen 114a in the special effect mode.
In the special effect mode, as shown in FIG. 40B, the special effect image and the game effect image are displayed by displaying the special effect image in the special effect area A1 and the game effect image in the game effect area A2. Are simultaneously displayed on the display screen 114a.
As described above, also in the second embodiment, basically, after shifting from the game effect mode to the special effect mode as in the first embodiment, the game effect image and the special effect image are displayed using the area division display. They are displayed at the same time.

(Processing when symbol variation does not end before special performance mode)
Here, by the set time of the special effect mode, the symbol variation that is the variation of the decorative symbol P12 displayed on the display screen 114a in the game effect shown in FIG. In such a case, when the display of the screen is switched to the area division display shown in FIG. 40B, for example, when the special effect start time comes, it becomes difficult for the player to understand the result of the symbol variation. End up.

Therefore, in the second embodiment, the reduced game effect image is superimposed and displayed on the special effect image under certain conditions such that the symbol variation does not end by the set time of the special effect mode.
For example, as shown in FIG. 40C, the performance announcement image P47 is displayed entirely on the display screen 114a, and the decorative symbol P12 continuously displayed from the game effect mode is reduced and superimposed on the performance announcement image P47. To display. As shown in FIG. 40 (d), the music performance image P48 is displayed entirely on the display screen 114a, and the decorative design P12 continuously displayed from the game effect mode is reduced and superimposed on the music performance image P48. To display.
As described above, in the second embodiment, if the symbol variation does not end by the set time of the special effect mode, the decorative symbol P12 that displays the symbol variation reduces the content displayed in the game effect mode as it is. And superimposed on the special effect image.

  Further, in the second embodiment, the holding ball display P13 maintains the display size of the holding ball display P13 displayed in the game effect mode shown in FIG. 40A, and is shown in FIGS. 40C and 40D. Thus, the display is performed as it is in the special effect mode. The holding ball display P13 is not displayed largely on the display screen 114a. Therefore, if the time is reduced in the same way as the decorative pattern P12 due to the setting time of the special effect mode, it is highly likely that the display content of the holding ball is difficult to understand for the player. Therefore, in the second embodiment, the reservation ball display P13 is configured to continue the display in the same size in the special effect mode without changing the display contents from the normal effect mode.

Further, in the second embodiment, display of the character P14 and the item P15 is prohibited at the set time of the special effect mode. As for the character P14 and the item P15, if they are simply reduced and displayed in the same manner as the decorative pattern P12, the contents may be difficult to understand. In addition, the character P14 and the item P15 have lower priority as information for displaying the lottery result than the decorative symbol P12 and the reserved ball display P13. On the other hand, if the character P14 and the item P15 are displayed with the display size in the game effect mode, the area where the special effect image in the special effect mode is hidden increases.
Therefore, in the pachinko gaming machine 100 to which the second embodiment is applied, display of the character P14 and the item P15 on the display screen 114a is prohibited in the special effect mode.

FIG. 41 is a timing chart of symbol variation and special effects in the second embodiment.
41 (a) to 41 (c) show timing charts for three cases when the symbol variation does not stop by the set time of the special effect mode. FIG. 41A is a timing chart when the symbol variation ends by the start time of the music performance, but the symbol variation does not end by the start time of the performance announcement. FIG. 41B is a timing chart in the case where the variation does not end by the start time of the music performance, but the symbol change delimits by the start time of the music performance. Furthermore, FIG. 41 (b) is a timing chart when the variation does not end by the start time of the music performance and there is no symbol variation delimiter.

  As shown in FIG. 41A, when the symbol variation does not end by the scheduled start time of the performance announcement but ends by the start time of the music performance, the display screen 114a is displayed at the timing when the symbol variation ends. The mode is shifted to area division display. Then, the performance notification image P47 is displayed in the special effect area A1 of the area division display (see FIG. 40B). Thereafter, when the start time of the music performance is reached, the music performance image P48 is displayed in the special effect area A1 of the area division display.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 41 (b), when the symbol variation does not stop by the start time of the music performance, and there is a symbol variation break before the music performance start time, the timing of the symbol variation break Then, the performance announcement image P47 is entirely displayed on the display screen 114a, and the decorative symbol P12 continuously displayed before shifting to the special performance mode is reduced and superimposed on the performance announcement image P47 (FIG. 40 (c)). reference). Thereafter, the music performance image P48 is displayed entirely on the display screen 114a at the timing of the music performance start time, and the decorative pattern P12 continuously displayed before the transition to the special performance mode is reduced and superimposed on the music performance image P48. It is displayed (see FIG. 40 (d)).
Furthermore, the music performance image P48 is displayed in the special effect area A1 (see FIG. 40 (b)) using the area division display at the timing when the symbol variation stops. At this time, the game effect is performed by the decorative symbol P22 and the reserved ball display P23 which are simplified contents of the effect.

Then, as shown in FIG. 41 (c), when the symbol variation does not end by the start time of the music performance and there is no break in the symbol variation, the performance notification image P47 is not displayed. Then, at the timing when the music performance start time comes, the music performance image P48 is displayed on the display screen 114a as a whole, and the decorative design P12 continuously displayed before shifting to the special performance mode is reduced to reduce the music performance image P48. (See FIG. 40D).
Furthermore, the music performance image P48 is displayed in the special effect area A1 (see FIG. 40 (b)) using the area division display at the timing when the symbol fluctuation is stopped. At this time, the game effect is performed by the decorative symbol P22 and the reserved ball display P23 which are simplified contents of the effect.

(Processing of game effects performed when shifting to the special performance mode)
Next, the game effect after shifting to the special effect mode in the second embodiment will be described.
A case will be described in which the second embodiment is applied to the effect performed at the time point of the arrow A described with reference to FIG. 33 in the first embodiment and the effect based on the time point of the arrow a in FIG.

FIG. 42 is a diagram for explaining an effect when the decorative symbols P12 are aligned in the special effect mode.
Note that, in the following description, a case will be described in which the symbol variation continues even when the special effect mode is set, and the symbols are all stopped after shifting to the special effect mode.

  In the second embodiment, the effect when the decorative symbols P12 are aligned in the area division display is the same as the contents of the first embodiment described with reference to FIG. That is, the movable accessory 115 moves to the front of the image display unit 114 at the timing when the decorative symbols P12 are aligned in the game effect mode. Further, in the pachinko gaming machine 100 of the present embodiment, an effect image P51 that brightly displays the periphery of the movable accessory 115 so as to emphasize the movable accessory 115 is displayed on the display screen 114a (see FIG. 34B). .

  42, the movable accessory 115 moves to the front surface of the image display unit 114 even at the timing when the decorative symbols P12 reduced and displayed in the special effect mode are aligned. Furthermore, in the pachinko gaming machine 100 of the present embodiment, the effect image P51 that displays the periphery of the movable accessory 115 brightly so as to emphasize the movable accessory 115 is displayed on the display screen 114a.

As described above, in the state of transition to the special effect mode, as shown in FIG. 42, the game effect image such as the decorative symbol P12 displayed in a reduced size is displayed as a whole, such as the decorative symbol P12 displayed in the game effect mode. It is displayed smaller than the game effect image. On the other hand, special effect images such as the performance announcement image P47 and the music performance image P48 are displayed relatively large. For this reason, in the special effect mode, the player is difficult to notice the alignment of the decorative symbols P12 displayed in a reduced size.
Therefore, also in the second embodiment, after the transition to the special effect mode, the movable accessory 115 is moved and the effect image P51 that emphasizes the movable accessory 115 is displayed on the display screen 114a as in the game effect mode. Thus, the player can easily understand that the decoration pattern P12 has been prepared.

Next, an effect when the jackpot gaming state is executed when the mode is shifted to the special effect mode will be described.
FIG. 43 is a diagram for explaining a display image when the game state is shifted to the jackpot gaming state in the special effect mode.
In the second embodiment, the display mode of the jackpot game image when the game effect mode is shifted to the jackpot game state is the same as that of the first embodiment described with reference to FIG.

As shown in FIG. 43, in the second embodiment, when the jackpot game effect is executed when the special effect mode is shifted, the display screen 114a displays the special effect image of the performance announcement image P47 or the music performance image P48. It is carried out.
Therefore, in the pachinko gaming machine 100 according to the present embodiment, when the jackpot game effect is executed when the mode is shifted to the special effect mode, the jackpot game image (game effect image) is configured based on a predetermined condition. A specific image among the images to be reduced is displayed in a reduced size, or the display of the specific image among the images constituting the jackpot game image is omitted. Here, of the images constituting the jackpot game image, is the condition for selecting a specific image to be displayed in a reduced size or omitted from the image including information including information that affects the number of balls for the player? Set based on whether or not.

  As shown in FIG. 43, the round display image P61 indicates the number of rounds that the special winning opening 125 opens, and includes information that determines the number of balls that the player has to play. Accordingly, the round display image P61 is displayed on the display screen 114a.

  In addition, in the opening, the information image P62 notifies that the lottery result is a big hit with the characters “big hit !!”. Further, the information image P62 presents “right-handed” information to inform the player that a game ball is to be launched toward the right half side of the game area 111. These information images P62 indicate that the player is in a big hit gaming state, that the big prize opening 125 is opened, and that the game ball is launched toward the big prize opening 125 located on the right side of the game area 111. It contains information that affects the number. Therefore, the information image P62 is reduced and displayed superimposed on the music performance image P48.

  And in round 1-round 3, the display of the boost image P63 (refer FIG. 35) which excites the jackpot currently displayed in the game production mode is not performed. The raised image P63 that simply raises the jackpot does not include information that influences the number of balls for the player, and the priority of the raised image P63 is lower than that of other jackpot game images. Therefore, in the second embodiment, the display of the raised image P63 is omitted.

  In addition, the game effect image P64 that produces the game played from round 4 to round 7 and the information image P62 that reports the type of jackpot played in round 8 include information that affects the number of balls played for the player. Conceivable. Therefore, in the second embodiment, the game effect image P64 and the information image P62 are reduced and superimposed on the music performance image P48 and simultaneously displayed.

  As described above, in the second embodiment, when shifting to the jackpot game state in the special effect mode, basically, the special effect image is displayed as a whole and the jackpot game image is reduced and displayed. However, depending on the contents of the images constituting the jackpot game image, the display of a part of the images constituting the jackpot game image to be displayed when the game effect mode is shifted to the jackpot game state is omitted. Thereby, also in the pachinko gaming machine 100 to which the second embodiment is applied, the player can appropriately enjoy both the jackpot game effect and the special effect.

Subsequently, display of image data in the pachinko gaming machine 100 according to the second embodiment will be described. The hardware configuration of the presentation control board of the second embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment (see FIG. 38).
As shown in FIG. 40 (a), in order to display the game effect image as a whole in the game effect mode, the image data ROM 17 includes the image data of the background P11, the decoration symbol P12, the holding ball display P13, the character P14 and the item P15. All of these image data are developed in the first VRAM 16a. Then, the game effect image can be displayed entirely on the display screen 114a by transferring the image data developed in the first VRAM 16a to the LCD 28 at a predetermined timing. In this case, the second VRAM 16b is not used.

  In addition, as shown in FIG. 40B, in order to display the game effect image and the special effect image as a whole in the special effect mode, the background P21, the decorative symbol P22, the reserved ball display P23, and the performance announcement image P47 or The music performance image P48 is read from the image data ROM 17, and all these image data are developed in the first VRAM 16a. Then, by transferring the image data developed in the first VRAM 16a to the LCD 28 at a predetermined timing, it is possible to display the game effect image as a whole on the display screen 114a. Even in this case, the second VRAM 16b is not used.

Then, as shown in FIG. 40 (c) or FIG. 40 (d), a case will be described in which the special effect image is displayed entirely on the display screen 114a in the special effect mode, and the reduced game effect image is displayed in a superimposed manner. . In this case, the performance announcement image P47 or the music performance image P48 is read from the image data ROM 17, and all these image data are developed in the first VRAM 16a. Further, the holding ball display P13 is read from the image data ROM 17, and all these image data are similarly developed in the first VRAM 16a.
On the other hand, the image data of the background P11 and the decorative design P12 is read from the image data ROM 17 and developed in the second VRAM 16b. Note that the background P11 and the decorative design P12 are reduced to a predetermined size by an image scaling process before being developed in the second VRAM 16b.

  Then, by transferring the image data developed in the first VRAM 16a and the image data developed in the second VRAM 16b to the LCD 28 at a predetermined timing, a special effect image displayed on the display screen 114a as a whole is displayed. The reduced decorative pattern P12 can be superimposed and displayed simultaneously. Further, the reserved ball display P13 can be displayed without changing the size between the normal effect mode and the special effect mode.

As described above, in the second embodiment, for example, the special effect image is displayed entirely by switching between the first VRAM 16a and the second VRAM 16b with respect to the development destination RAM of the image data read from the image data ROM 17 and developed. The special effect image is reduced and displayed. As described above, when an image is reduced or displayed as a whole, it can be realized simply by switching the expansion destination address to the RAM related to the image data, so that the program can be simplified. .
Further, for example, when there is an element image whose display size is not changed between the normal effect mode and the special effect mode, such as the holding ball display P13, at least the development destination of the image data of the element image whose display size is not changed There is no need to rewrite the address. Thereby, the complication of the program can be suppressed.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 ... Pachinko machine, 110 ... Game board, 114 ... Image display part, 114a ... Display screen, 115 ... Movable accessory, 116 ... Board lamp, 157 ... Frame lamp, 200 ... Game control part, 300 ... Production control part, 310 ... Image / sound control unit

Claims (1)

A display for displaying an image;
Effect image display means for displaying an effect image used for an effect performed with a predetermined effect time based on the progress of the game based on the result of the lottery on the display unit;
Time information acquisition means for acquiring time information;
In the predecessor effect that suggests in advance that a special effect different from the effect will be executed when it is recognized that it is a predetermined first time from the time information acquired by the time information acquisition means The preceding image to be used is displayed on the display unit simultaneously with the display of the effect image by the effect image display means in either a partial display region of the display unit or a display region larger than the partial display region. Preceding image display means;
Special image display for displaying on the display unit a special image used for the special effect, which is executed following the preceding effect after a lapse of a predetermined time from the start of the preceding effect, simultaneously with the display of the effect image by the effect image display means. Means,
With
If the effect started before the first time ends before the first time, the preceding image is displayed on the display unit while displaying the effect image from the first time. Displaying a preceding image in the large display area in the display unit by the image display means;
When the effect started before the first time is continuously performed after the first time, the effect image display means causes the effect image of the effect until the effect ends. while displaying on the display unit, to display the previous image in the portion of the display area of the display unit by the preceding image display means,
If the effect started before the first time is after the first time and ends before the lapse of the predetermined time, the effect of the effect performed next to the ended effect while displaying an image on the display unit, game machine and displaying the preceding image in the large display area in the display unit by the preceding image display means.

Images