JP5795835B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention is provided with an effect display device that variably displays a plurality of types of identification information that can identify each of them and derives and displays a display result, and is advantageous for a player when a specific display result is derived and displayed on the effect display device. A special game in which a transition is made to a specific gaming state, a transition to a specific gaming state advantageous to the player when a special condition is established, and a transition to the specific gaming state is easier than the normal state after the specific gaming state has ended. The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine to be shifted to a state.

  As a gaming machine, a game medium such as a game ball is launched into a game area by a launching device, and when a game medium wins a prize area such as a prize opening provided in the game area, a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out to the player. There is something to be. Furthermore, a variable display device capable of variably displaying the identification information (also referred to as “fluctuation”) is provided, which is advantageous to the player when the display result of the variable display of the identification information becomes the specific display result in the variable display device. Some are configured to be controllable to a specific gaming state.

  The specific game state means a state advantageous for a player who is given a predetermined game value. Specifically, the specific game state is, for example, a state in which a special variable winning device is advantageous for a player who is likely to win a ball (a big hit game state), or a state in which a right to be advantageous for a player has occurred. In this state, a predetermined game value such as a state where conditions for paying out premium game media are easily established is given.

  In such a gaming machine, the fact that the display result of the variable display device that displays the symbol as identification information is a combination of specific display modes (specific display result) determined in advance is generally referred to as “big hit”. When the big hit occurs, for example, the big winning opening is opened a predetermined number of times, and the game shifts to a big hit gaming state where the hit ball is easy to win. And in each open period, if there is a prize for a predetermined number (for example, 10) of the big prize opening, the big prize opening is closed. And the number of times the special winning opening is opened is fixed to a predetermined number (for example, 15 rounds). An opening time (for example, 29.5 seconds) is determined for each opening, and even if the number of winnings does not reach a predetermined number, the big winning opening is closed when the opening time elapses. Further, when a predetermined condition (for example, winning in the V zone provided in the big prize opening) is not established at the time when the big prize opening is closed, the big hit gaming state is ended.

  Furthermore, if a special condition is established such that the display result of the variable display of the identification information becomes a special specific display result (special display result) of the specific display results in the variable display device, the big hit is made after the end of the big hit gaming state. There is a gaming machine that shifts to a high-probability state (also referred to as a probabilistic change state) in which the probability of occurrence of is high.

  In such a gaming machine, when the variable display of the identification information is being performed or during the big hit game, the gaming machine that performs the effect of notifying the player that the state is to be changed to the probable change state in the effect device including the variable display device (For example, see Patent Documents 1 and 2).

  In the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, a specific character image is displayed on the variable display device during the variable display of the identification information, thereby notifying that the transition to the probable change state is made after the end of the big hit gaming state.

  In the gaming machine described in Patent Document 2, a specific character image is displayed on the variable display device during the big hit game, thereby informing that the game will shift to the probable change state after the big hit game state. In other words, the player can grasp that the game is shifted to the big hit gaming state by the display result (stop symbol) of the variable display of the identification information, but cannot know whether or not the game is shifted to the probability variation state. And it can grasp | ascertain that it transfers to a probability change state by the production performed during a big hit game. Hereinafter, when it is not possible to grasp whether or not to shift to the probability change state based on the display result of the variable display of the identification information, the effect that is executed after that is promoted to make the player know that the probability change state is shifted to It is called production.

JP 2005-21270 (paragraph 0043, FIG. 5) Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 6-304312 (paragraphs 0044-0047, FIGS. 6 and 7)

  However, in the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, since it is informed that the transition to the probability change state is made before the variable display of the identification information is finished, the player's interest regarding the probability change state during the variable display of the identification information. However, the promotion mode is monotonous. Further, in the gaming machine described in Patent Document 2, since the promotion effect is executed during the jackpot game, it is possible to attract the player's interest regarding the probability change state during the jackpot game, but the effect mode of the promotion effect is still the same. It is monotonous.

  SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can enhance the entertainment of a game by changing the effect mode of the promotion effect.

The gaming machine according to the present invention includes an effect display device (for example, a special symbol display device 8 or an effect display device 9) that variably displays a plurality of types of identification information that can be identified, and displays and displays the display result. When a specific display result (for example, jackpot symbol) is derived and displayed on the display device, the player is shifted to a specific gaming state (for example, jackpot gaming state) that is advantageous to the player, and when the special condition is satisfied, the gaming state is changed to the player. Transition to a specific gaming state that is advantageous to the user, and after the specific gaming state is finished , transition to a probability change state in which a specific display result is more easily derived and displayed than a normal gaming state (for example, a state that is not a special gaming state). It is a gaming machine, and whether to display the variable information display result as the specific display result and whether or not to satisfy the special condition is derived and displayed. Pre-determining means (for example, a part for executing the processing of steps S61 to S63 in the game control microcomputer 560) and a first effect (for example, an effect using the character P (9p), character Q An effect using (9q), an effect using character R (9r), an effect using character S (9s), and a second effect different from the first effect (for example, character A (9a)) An effect selection means for selecting an effect, an effect using the character B (9b), and an effect using the character C (9c) from a plurality of types (for example, in the effect control microcomputer 100, step S825). The portion of executing the processing of S826 and the processing of S911 to S912) and the first effect selected by the effect selecting means An effect executing means (for example, executing in the effect display device during the specific game state which is executed after the variable display of the identification information is finished, is executed in the effect display device during the change display, and the second effect selected by the effect selection means is ended. The production control microcomputer 100 includes a portion for executing the processing of steps S840 and S845 to S847), and the production selection means specifies the display result when the prior decision means decides to establish the special condition. When the specific first effect (for example, character R) is selected as the first effect, the specific second effect (as the second effect) is selected at a higher rate than when the display result is determined and the special condition is not satisfied. For example, when character C) is selected and a predetermined first effect (for example, character Q) is selected as the first effect, a high ratio The second production (for example, character A) is selected as the second production.

  The effect execution means executes the first effect when the variable display of the identification information is performed, and executes the second effect during the variable display of the identification information after executing the first effect (for example, The production control microcomputer 100 first executes the processes of steps S840 and S845 to S847 based on the process of step S833, and then executes the processes of steps S840 and S845 to S847 based on the process of step S912). The effect selecting means has at least one of a plurality of types when the pre-deciding means decides to make the display result of the variable display of the identification information as the specific display result and not to make the specific display result. You may be comprised so that the selection ratio of a 1st effect may differ (refer FIG. 30).

  The effect execution means executes the first effect in the specific game state, and executes the second effect in the specific game state after executing the first effect (for example, the effect control microcomputer 100 first performs 59, the processing of steps S883 to S886 shown in FIG. 60 is executed based on the processing of step S871 shown in FIG. 59, and then the processing of steps S883 to S886 is executed based on the processing of step S912 shown in FIG. It may be configured.

  The effect execution means executes the first effect after the end of the specific game state, and executes the second effect after the end of the specific game state after executing the first effect (for example, the effect control microcomputer 100). First, the processes of steps S840 and S845 to S847 shown in FIG. 43 are executed based on the process of step S936 shown in FIG. 71, and then the steps S840 and S845 to S847 are executed based on the process of step S912 shown in FIG. May be configured to execute the process (1).

  The effect selecting means includes a first effect type selecting means (for example, a portion for executing the processing of steps S825 to S826 in the effect control microcomputer 100) and a first effect type selecting means. Second effect selection means for selecting the type of the second effect based on the type of the selected first effect and whether or not the special condition is satisfied (for example, the processing of steps S911 to S912 in the effect control microcomputer 100) And a portion for executing the above.

  The effect selecting means sets data capable of specifying the type of the first effect selected by the first effect type selecting means in the effect type storage means (for example, the first effect character buffer 112a in the RAM 112 in the effect control microcomputer 100). The first effect type storage means (for example, the part for executing the processing of step S827 in the effect control microcomputer 100), and the second effect selection means is based on the data set in the effect type storage means. The type of the second effect may be selected (for example, using data stored in the first effect character buffer 112a in the process of step S912).

  Game control means (for example, a game control microcomputer 560) for controlling the progress of the game, and effect control means (for example, for game control) for controlling the display state of the effect display device based on the command output by the game control means. An effect control microcomputer 100 that receives an effect control command from the microcomputer 560 and an effect control microcomputer 100 that receives an effect control command from the game control microcomputer 560 via another board, and is determined in advance. The means is included in the game control means, the effect selection means is included in the effect control means, and the game control means can specify that the predetermination means has decided to establish the special condition at a predetermined time. Special condition specifying command (for example, design symbol designation command (8C01 (H) to 8C03 ( )) And a background designating command (9500 (H) to 9502 (H)) for outputting command (for example, a part for executing the processing of steps S119 and S125 in the game control microcomputer 560), The effect type selecting means selects the first effect based on the special condition specifying command (for example, the process of step S826), and the second effect type selecting means is the type of the first effect selected by the first effect type selecting means. The second effect may be selected based on the special condition specifying command (for example, the process of step S912).

  The command output means is determined in advance as a special condition specifying command at each of the time when the first effect type selecting means selects the first effect type and the second effect type selecting means selecting the second effect type. A display result specifying command (for example, an effect symbol designating command) that can specify a display result of variable display of identification information based on the determination result of the means is output (for example, processing in steps S826 and S912), and first effect type selecting means Selects the type of the first effect based on the display result specifying command (for example, the process of step S826), and the second effect type selecting means displays the type and the display of the first effect selected by the first effect type selecting means. The type of the second effect may be selected based on the result specifying command (for example, the process of step S912).

  The command output means designates that the background portion on the display screen of the effect display device is in a mode corresponding to the special gaming state or the non-special gaming state when the identification information is variably displayed as the special condition specifying command. It includes a background designation command output means for outputting a background designation command (for example, a part for executing the processing of step S107 in the game control microcomputer 560), and at least one of the first effect type selection means and the second effect type selection means. May be configured to select the type of effect based on the background designation command (the process in step S936B shown in FIG. 72 or the process in step S912A shown in FIG. 73).

In the first aspect of the present invention, the gaming machine selects a first effect and a second effect different from the first effect from among a plurality of types , respectively, and an effect selection unit selected by the effect selection unit. The effect display device executes one effect during the variable display of the identification information, and the effect display is performed during the specific game state to which the second effect selected by the effect selection means is transferred after the variable information is displayed. And an effect executing means that executes in the apparatus, and the effect selecting means sets the display result as the specific display result and does not satisfy the special condition when the pre-decision means determines to establish the special condition. When the specific first effect is selected as the first effect, the specific second effect is selected as the second effect at a high rate, and the predetermined first effect is selected as the first effect. Since the second effect at a high rate when-option is configured to select a predetermined second effect, the notification of moving to probability variation state is realized by the combination of the first effect and the second effect, a special There is an effect that the entertainment aspect of the game can be further enhanced by changing the effect mode of the notification effect of transitioning to the gaming state.

Starring out executing means executes a first effect when the variable display of the identification information is being performed, perform a second effect on the variable display in the the identification information after performing the first effect, effect When the selection means decides that the display result of the variable display of the identification information is the specific display result, and when the selection means decides not to use the specific display result, at least one of the plurality of types is selected. In the case where the selection ratio of one effect is made different, the specific display result is displayed on the effect display device in addition to the level of expectation to shift to the special gaming state as the type of the first effect to be executed. It is possible to correspond to the degree of expectation that is derived and displayed. In addition, various effects such as lowering the expectation that the display result becomes the specific display result while increasing the expectation that the special condition is satisfied by a specific combination of the first effect and the second effect may be executed. And can further enhance the fun of the game.

Starring out executing means executes a first effect in a particular game state, if it is configured to perform a second effect in the in the specific game state after executing the first effect is a special Notification of the transition to the gaming state is realized by a combination of the first effect and the second effect executed in the specific gaming state, and the effect mode of the notification effect of transitioning to the special gaming state is changed, and the game It can enhance the interest.

If Starring out executing means executes a first effect after completion of the specific gaming state, it is configured to perform a second effect after completion of the specific game state after executing the first effect Is realized by a combination of the first effect and the second effect that are executed after the specific game state, and the effect state of the notification effect that changes to the special game state is changed. Along with this, it is possible to further enhance the interest of the game.

Starring output selection means, first based on the first effect type selecting means and the type of the first effect of the first effect type selecting means has selected, and whether special condition is met for selecting the type of the first effect In the case of including the second effect selecting means for selecting the type of the second effect, the type of the second effect corresponding to the selected type of the first effect can be flexibly selected. For example, when there is a correlation between the type of the first effect and the expectation that the special condition will be established, the expectation that the special condition will be established for the first effect with a low expectation By selecting the type of the second effect so that the combination of the first effect and the second effect is high, the expectation is low while the first effect is being executed, but the second effect is expected to start. It is possible to execute an effect such as increasing the degree.

Starring output selection means includes a first effect type storage means for setting to the effect type memory means capable of identifying data of the first rendition of the selected type is first effect type selecting means, the second effect selecting means, effect if on the basis of the data set in the type storage unit is configured to select the type of the second effect is flexibly select the type of second effect corresponding to the type of the first effect that is selected can do.

Starring output control means first directing type selection means in selects the first effect of the kind based on the special condition specifying command, the second effect type selecting means in the performance control unit, the first effect type selecting means selects if it is configured to select the second effect based on the and special conditions specific command type of the first effect can reduce the processing load related to the promotion effect of the game controller.

Is command output means, as a special condition specifying command, at each time when the first effect type selecting means when and second effect type selecting means for selecting the type of the first effect to select the type of the second effect, pre A display result specifying command capable of specifying the display result of the variable display of the identification information based on the determination result of the determining means is output, and the first effect type selecting means selects the type of the first effect based on the display result specifying command. , when the second effect type selecting means is configured to select the first effect of the type and display result specific commands and type of the second effect based on the first effect type selecting means has selected, The effect selection means does not need to store the display result specifying command output from the game control means first, and the processing of the effect control means is simplified. Even when the display result specifying command output from the game control means is not received first, the second effect is started based on the display result specifying command output at the time of selecting the type of the second effect. Will be able to.

Is command output means, as a special condition specifying command, specify when the variable display of the identification information is, to the manner in which the corresponding background portion of the display screen of the effect display device in a special game state or a non-special game state Background designation command output means for outputting a background designation command to be performed, and at least one of the first effect type selection means and the second effect type selection means is configured to select an effect type based on the background designation command. If there is , the above-described effects of the first effect and the second effect can be obtained without increasing the types of commands output from the game control means. Further, when the second effect is executed after the end of the specific gaming state and the type of the second effect is selected after the start of variable display of the next identification information, the second effect is based on the display result specifying command. Selection control is easier than when selecting the type of effect. When the type of the second effect is selected based on the display result specifying command, the type of the second effect should be selected based on the display result specifying command related to the variable display before the specific game state is started. This is because it is necessary to control not to select the type of the second effect based on the display result specifying command related to the variable display of the next identification information.

Embodiment 1 FIG.
Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
First, the overall configuration of a pachinko gaming machine that is an example of a gaming machine will be described. FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine as viewed from the front.

  The pachinko gaming machine 1 includes an outer frame (not shown) formed in a vertically long rectangular shape, and a game frame attached to the inside of the outer frame so as to be opened and closed. Further, the pachinko gaming machine 1 has a glass door frame 2 formed in a frame shape that is provided in the game frame so as to be opened and closed. The game frame includes a front frame (not shown) installed to be openable and closable with respect to the outer frame, a mechanism plate to which mechanism parts and the like are attached, and various parts attached to them (excluding a game board described later). Is a structure including

  As shown in FIG. 1, the pachinko gaming machine 1 has a glass door frame 2 formed in a frame shape. On the lower surface of the glass door frame 2 is a hitting ball supply tray (upper plate) 3. Under the hitting ball supply tray 3, an extra ball receiving tray 4 for storing game balls that cannot be accommodated in the hit ball supply tray 3 and a hitting operation handle (operation knob) 5 for launching the game balls are provided. A game board 6 is detachably attached to the back surface of the glass door frame 2. The game board 6 is a structure including a plate-like body constituting the game board 6 and various components attached to the plate-like body. A game area 7 is formed on the front surface of the game board 6.

  In the vicinity of the center of the game area 7, an effect display device (image display device) 9 is provided as a variable display device that variably displays a plurality of types of decorative patterns for effects. The effect display device 9 includes a symbol display area 9A for variably displaying, for example, three decorative (effect) symbols for “left”, “middle”, and “right”. The effect display device 9 performs variable display of decorative symbols as decorative (effect) symbols during the variable symbol variable display period of the special symbol indicator 8. The effect display device 9 that performs variable display of decorative symbols is controlled by an effect control microcomputer mounted on the effect control board. The position of the symbol display area 9A may not be fixed on the display screen of the effect display device 9, and the three areas “left”, “middle”, and “right” may be separated.

  A special symbol display (special symbol display device) 8 that variably displays a special symbol as identification information is provided on the top of the effect display device 9. In this embodiment, the special symbol display 8 is realized by a simple and small display (for example, 7 segment LED) capable of variably displaying numbers 0 to 9, for example. The special symbol display 8 may be configured to variably display a larger number of numbers such as 0 to 99 in order to make it difficult for the player to grasp a specific stop symbol. Further, the effect display device 9 performs variable display of decorative symbols during the variable symbol display period of the special symbols by the special symbol display 8.

  At the bottom of the effect display device 9, a special symbol hold memory display comprising four displays for displaying the number of valid winning balls that have entered the start winning opening 13, that is, the number of hold memories (also referred to as start memory or start prize memory). 18 is provided. Every time there is an effective start prize, the display color of one display is changed. Each time the variable display on the special symbol display 8 is started, the display color of one display is restored. In addition, in the display area of the effect display device 9, a special symbol reserved storage display area including four display areas for displaying the number of reserved memories may be provided. Further, in this embodiment, the upper limit value of the number of reserved memories is 4, but the upper limit value may be a larger value. Further, the upper limit value may be changed according to the gaming state.

  Below the effect display device 9, a variable winning ball device 15 that forms a start winning opening 13 is provided. The variable winning ball apparatus 15 is opened by the solenoid 16 and when it is opened, it is easy to win a game ball in the start winning opening 13. A game ball won in the start winning opening 13 is led to the back of the game board 6 and detected by the start opening switch 13a.

  A special variable winning ball apparatus 20 is provided below the variable winning ball apparatus 15. The special variable winning ball apparatus 20 includes an opening / closing plate, and in a specific gaming state (big hit state), the opening / closing plate is controlled to be opened by the solenoid 21 so that the large winning opening serving as a winning area is opened. The winning ball that has won the big winning opening is detected by the count switch 23.

  When a game ball wins the gate 32 and is detected by the gate switch 32a, the variable display of the normal symbol display 10 is started. In this embodiment, variable display is performed by alternately lighting left and right lamps (designs can be visually recognized when lit). For example, if the right lamp is lit at the end of variable display, it is a win. And when the stop symbol in the normal symbol display 10 is a predetermined symbol (winning symbol), the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is opened for a predetermined number of times. In the vicinity of the normal symbol display 10, a normal symbol start memory display 41 having a display unit with four LEDs for displaying the number of winning balls entered into the gate 32 is provided. Each time there is a prize at the gate 32, the normal symbol start memory display 41 increases the number of LEDs to be turned on by one. Each time variable display on the normal symbol display 10 is started, the number of LEDs to be lit is reduced by one.

  The game board 6 is provided with a plurality of winning ports (ordinary winning ports) 29, 30, 33, and 39. The winning holes 29, 30, 33, and 39 for the game balls are awarded to the winning port switches 29a and 30a, respectively. , 33a, 39a. Each winning opening 29, 30, 33, 39 constitutes a winning area provided in the game board 6 as an area for accepting game media and allowing winning. The start winning opening 13 and the big winning opening also constitute a winning area that accepts game media and allows winning. In addition, the game balls won in the respective winning openings 29, 30, 33, 39 may be detected by one switch.

  A decoration LED 25 blinkingly displayed during the game is provided around the left and right sides of the game area 7, and an outlet 26 for absorbing a game ball that has not won a prize is provided at the bottom. Two speakers 27 that emit sound effects are provided on the left and right upper portions outside the game area 7. On the outer periphery of the game area 7, a top frame LED 28a, a left frame LED 28b, and a right frame LED 28c are provided. Furthermore, a decoration LED is installed around each structure (such as the effect display device 9) in the game area 7. The top frame LED 28a, the left frame LED 28b, the right frame LED 28c, and the decoration LED are examples of a decorative light emitter provided in the gaming machine.

  The game balls launched from the hit ball launching device enter the game area 7 through the hit ball rail, and then descend the game area 7. If the game ball enters the start winning opening 13 and is detected by the start opening switch 13a, the special symbol on the special symbol display 8 starts variable display (variation) as long as the variable display of the symbol can be started. The decorative design on the display device 9 starts variable display (variation). If it is not in a state where the variable display of symbols can be started, the start winning memory number is increased by one.

  The variable display of the special symbol on the special symbol display 8 and the variable display of the decorative symbol on the effect display device 9 are stopped when a predetermined time has elapsed. When the special symbol (stop symbol) at the time of stoppage is a big hit symbol (specific display result: for example, a symbol “7” of “0” to “9”), the game shifts to a big hit gaming state. That is, the special variable winning ball apparatus 20 is released until a predetermined time (for example, 29 seconds) elapses or until a predetermined number (for example, 10) of gaming balls have won.

  When the game ball wins the gate 32, normal symbols (for example, “◯” and “x”) are variably displayed on the normal symbol display 10. Further, when the stop symbol on the normal symbol display 10 is a predetermined symbol (winning symbol: “◯”, for example), the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is opened for a predetermined time. Further, in the probability variation state, the probability that the stop symbol in the normal symbol display 10 becomes a winning symbol is increased, and the opening time and the number of times of opening of the variable winning ball device 15 are increased. Further, in the short time state (the game state in which the variable symbol display time for special symbols is shortened), the opening time and the number of opening times of the variable winning ball device 15 may be increased.

  In this example, a prize ball LED 51 that is lit during award ball payout is provided in the vicinity of the left frame LED 28b, and a ball cut LED 52 that is lit when the supply ball is cut is provided in the vicinity of the right frame LED 28c. Yes. As described above, the pachinko gaming machine 1 of this embodiment is provided with light emitters at various locations. Further, a prepaid card unit (hereinafter also simply referred to as a “card unit”) that enables ball lending by inserting a prepaid card is installed adjacent to the pachinko gaming machine 1 (not shown).

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the circuit configuration of the main board (game control board) 31. FIG. 2 also shows a payout control board 37, an effect control board 80, and the like. A game control microcomputer (corresponding to game control means) 560 for controlling the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to a program is mounted on the main board 31. The game control microcomputer 560 includes a ROM 54 for storing a game control (game progress control) program and the like, a RAM 55 as storage means used as a work memory, a CPU 56 for performing control operations in accordance with the program, and an I / O port unit 57. including. In this embodiment, the ROM 54 and the RAM 55 are built in the game control microcomputer 560. That is, the game control microcomputer 560 is a one-chip microcomputer. The one-chip microcomputer only needs to incorporate at least the CPU 56 and the RAM 55, and the ROM 54 may be external or built-in. The I / O port unit 57 may be externally attached. The game control microcomputer 560 further includes a random number circuit 503 that generates hardware random numbers (random numbers generated by the hardware circuit).

  In the game control microcomputer 560, the CPU 56 executes control in accordance with the program stored in the ROM 54, so that the game control microcomputer 560 (or CPU 56) executes (or performs processing) hereinafter. Specifically, the CPU 56 executes control according to a program. The same applies to microcomputers mounted on substrates other than the main substrate 31.

  The random number circuit 503 is a hardware circuit that is used to generate a random number for determination to determine whether or not to win a jackpot based on a display result of variable symbol special display. The random number circuit 503 updates numerical data in accordance with a set update rule within a numerical range in which an initial value (for example, 0) and an upper limit value (for example, 65535) are set, and starts at a random timing Based on the fact that the winning time is the reading (extraction) of the numerical data, it has a random number generation function in which the numerical data to be read becomes a random value.

  The random number circuit 503 includes a numeric data update range selection setting function (initial value selection setting function and upper limit value selection setting function), numeric data update rule selection setting function, and numeric data update rule selection. It has various functions such as a switching function. With such a function, the randomness of the generated random numbers can be improved.

  Further, the game control microcomputer 560 has a function of setting an initial value of numerical data updated by the random number circuit 503. For example, a predetermined calculation is performed using the ID number of the game control microcomputer 560 stored in a predetermined storage area such as the ROM 54 (an ID number assigned with a different value for each product of the game control microcomputer 560). The numerical data obtained by the execution is set as the initial value of the numerical data updated by the random number circuit 503. By performing such processing, the randomness of the random number generated by the random number circuit 503 can be further improved.

  Further, an input driver circuit 58 for supplying detection signals from the gate switch 32a, the start port switch 13a, the count switch 23, and the winning port switches 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a to the game control microcomputer 560 is also mounted on the main board 31. Yes. The main board also includes an output circuit 59 for driving the solenoid 16 for opening and closing the variable winning ball device 15 and the solenoid 21 for opening and closing the special variable winning ball device 20 that forms a big winning opening in accordance with a command from the game control microcomputer 560. 31.

  In addition, the game control microcomputer 560 includes a special symbol display 8 that variably displays special symbols, a normal symbol display 10 that variably displays normal symbols, a special symbol hold memory display 18, and a normal symbol hold memory display 41. Perform display control.

  An information output circuit (not shown) that outputs an information output signal such as jackpot information indicating the occurrence of a jackpot gaming state to an external device such as a hall computer is also mounted on the main board 31.

  In this embodiment, the effect control means (configured by the effect control microcomputer) mounted on the effect control board 80 receives the effect control command from the game control microcomputer 560 via the relay board 77. The display control of the effect display device 9 which receives and variably displays the decorative design is performed.

  Further, the effect control means mounted on the effect control board 80 controls the display of the decoration LED 25 provided on the game board via the lamp driver board 35 and the top frame LED 28a provided on the frame side. The left frame LED 28 b, the right frame LED 28 c, the prize ball lamp 51 and the ball break lamp 52 are controlled to be displayed, and the sound output from the speaker 27 is controlled via the audio output board 70.

  FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a circuit configuration example of the relay board 77, the effect control board 80, the lamp driver board 35, and the audio output board 70. In the example shown in FIG. 3, the lamp driver board 35 and the audio output board 70 are not equipped with a microcomputer, but may be equipped with a microcomputer. Further, without providing the lamp driver board 35 and the audio output board 70, only the effect control board 80 may be provided for effect control.

  The effect control board 80 includes an effect control microcomputer 101 including an effect control CPU 101 and a RAM 112 that stores information relating to effects such as effect symbol process flags. The RAM 112 may be externally attached. In the effect control board 80, the effect control CPU 101 operates in accordance with a program stored in the built-in or external ROM 111, and an input signal (effect control INT signal) from the main board 31 input via the relay board 77. In response, the effect control command is received via the input driver 102 and the input port 103. Further, the effect control CPU 101 causes the VDP (video display processor) 109 to perform display control of the effect display device 9 based on the effect control command.

  In this embodiment, a VDP 109 that performs display control of the effect display device 9 in cooperation with the effect control microcomputer 100 is mounted on the effect control board 80. The VDP 109 has an address space independent of the production control microcomputer 100, and maps a VRAM therein. VRAM is a buffer memory for developing image data. Then, the VDP 109 outputs the image data in the VRAM to the effect display device 9 via the frame memory.

  The effect control CPU 101 outputs to the VDP 109 a command for reading out necessary data from a CGROM (not shown) in accordance with the received effect control command. The CGROM stores in advance character image data and moving image data to be displayed on the effect display device 9, specifically, a person, characters, figures, symbols, etc. (including decorative symbols), and background image data. ROM. The VDP 109 reads image data from the CGROM in response to the instruction from the effect control CPU 101. The VDP 109 executes display control based on the read image data.

  The effect control command and the effect control INT signal are first input to the input driver 102 on the effect control board 80. The input driver 102 passes the signal input from the relay board 77 only in the direction toward the inside of the effect control board 80 (does not pass the signal in the direction from the inside of the effect control board 80 to the relay board 77). It is also a unidirectional circuit as a regulating means.

  As a signal direction regulating means, the signal inputted from the main board 31 is allowed to pass through the relay board 77 only in the direction toward the effect control board 80 (the signal is not passed in the direction from the effect control board 80 to the relay board 77). The unidirectional circuit 74 is mounted. For example, a diode or a transistor is used as the unidirectional circuit. FIG. 3 illustrates a diode. A unidirectional circuit is provided for each signal. Furthermore, since the effect control command and the effect control INT signal are output from the main board 31 via the output port 571 that is a unidirectional circuit, the signal from the relay board 77 toward the inside of the main board 31 is restricted. That is, the signal from the relay board 77 does not enter the inside of the main board 31 (the game control microcomputer 560 side). The output port 571 is a part of the I / O port unit 57 shown in FIG. Further, a signal driver circuit that is a unidirectional circuit may be further provided outside the output port 571 (on the relay board 77 side).

  Further, the effect control CPU 101 outputs a signal for driving the LED to the lamp driver board 35 via the output port 105. Further, the production control CPU 101 outputs sound number data to the audio output board 70 via the output port 104.

  In the lamp driver board 35, a signal for driving the LED is input to the LED driver 352 via the input driver 351. The LED driver 352 supplies a current to each LED provided on the frame side such as the top frame LED 28a, the left frame LED 28b, and the right frame LED 28c based on a signal for driving the LED. Moreover, an electric current is supplied to the decoration LED 25 provided on the frame side.

  In the voice output board 70, the sound number data is input to the voice synthesis IC 703 via the input driver 702. The voice synthesizing IC 703 generates voice or sound effect according to the sound number data, and outputs it to the amplifier circuit 705. The amplification circuit 705 outputs an audio signal obtained by amplifying the output level of the speech synthesis IC 703 to a level corresponding to the volume set by the volume 706 to the speaker 27. The voice data ROM 704 stores control data corresponding to the sound number data. The control data corresponding to the sound number data is a collection of data indicating the sound effect or sound output mode in a time series in a predetermined period (for example, a decorative symbol variation period).

  Next, the configuration of the power supply substrate 910 will be described with reference to the block diagram of FIG. The power supply board 910 is provided with a power switch 914 for permitting or shutting off power supply to each electric component control board or mechanism component in the gaming machine. Note that the power switch 914 may be provided outside the power supply board 910 in the gaming machine. When the power switch 914 is in a closed state (on state), AC power (AC 24 V) is applied to the input side (primary side) of the transformer 911. The transformer 911 is for electrically insulating the AC power supply (AC24V) and the inside of the power supply substrate 910, and its output voltage is also AC24V. A varistor 918 as an overvoltage protection circuit is installed on the input side of the transformer 911.

  The power supply board 910 is installed independently of the electric component control board (the main board 31, the payout control board 37, the effect control board 80, etc.), and generates a voltage used by each board and the mechanical parts in the gaming machine. In this example, AC24V, VSL (DC + 30V), VLP (DC + 24V), VDD (DC + 12V) and VCC (DC + 5V) are generated. Further, a capacitor 916 serving as a storage holding means for holding the stored contents in the backup power supply (VBB), that is, the backup RAM, is charged from DC + 5V (VCC), that is, a power supply line for driving ICs on each substrate. Further, a backflow prevention diode 917 is inserted between the +5 V line and the backup +5 V (VBB) line. Note that VSL is generated by rectifying and boosting AC 24 V with a rectifying element in the rectifying and smoothing circuit 915. VSL becomes a solenoid driving power source. VLP is a lamp lighting voltage, and is generated by rectifying AC24V with a rectifier element in the rectifier circuit 912.

  The DC-DC converter 913 serving as a power supply voltage generation unit has one or a plurality of switching regulators (two regulator ICs 924A and 924B are shown in FIG. 4), and generates VDD and VCC based on VSL. Relatively large capacitors 923A and 923B are connected to the input sides of the regulator ICs (switching regulators) 924A and 924B. Accordingly, when the power supply to the gaming machine from the outside is stopped, the DC voltages such as VSL, VDD, VCC, etc., decrease relatively slowly.

  As shown in FIG. 4, AC24V output from the transformer 911 is supplied to the connector 922B as it is. The VLP is supplied to the connector 922C. VCC, VDD and VSL are supplied to connectors 922A, 922B and 922C.

  The cable connected to the connector 922A is connected to the main board 31. The cable connected to the connector 922B is connected to the payout control board 37. Therefore, VBB is also supplied to the connector 922A. For example, a cable connected to the connector 922 </ b> C is connected to the lamp driver board 35. Each voltage is supplied to the effect control board 80 via the lamp driver board 35.

  In addition, a clear switch 921 having a push button structure is mounted on the power supply board 910. When the clear switch 921 is pressed, a low level (ON state) clear signal is output and output to the main board 31 via the connector 922A. If the clear switch 921 is not pressed, a high level (off state) signal is output. The clear switch 921 may have a configuration other than the push button structure. Further, the clear switch 921 may be provided other than the power supply board 910 in the gaming machine.

  Further, the power supply board 910 generates a reset signal for the microcomputer mounted on the electric component control board, amplifies the reset signal from the power supply monitor circuit 920 that outputs a power-off signal, and the power supply monitor circuit 920. And an output driver circuit 925 that amplifies the power-off signal and outputs the amplified signal to the connector 922B. The reset signal for the effect control microcomputer is transmitted to the effect control board 80 via the lamp driver board 35. Further, when the reset circuit is mounted on each electric component control board, the voltage value that makes the reset signal high may be made different (for example, the case of the main board 31 is made highest). The timing at which the reset signal for the game control microcomputer 560 becomes high level is the latest).

  A power-off signal from the power monitoring circuit 920, that is, a detection signal from the power monitoring means is input to the game control microcomputer 560 via an input port mounted on the main board 31. That is, the gaming control microcomputer 560 can confirm the occurrence of the stop of the power supply to the gaming machine by monitoring the input signal of the input port.

  Next, the operation of the gaming machine will be described. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing main processing executed by the game control microcomputer 560 on the main board 31. When power is supplied to the gaming machine and power supply is started, the input level of the reset terminal to which the reset signal is input becomes high level, and the gaming control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) After executing a security check process, which is a process for confirming whether the contents of the program are valid, the main process after step S1 is started. In the main process, the CPU 56 first performs necessary initial settings.

  In the initial setting process, the CPU 56 first sets the interrupt prohibition (step S1). Next, the interrupt mode is set to interrupt mode 2 (step S2), and a stack pointer designation address is set to the stack pointer (step S3). Then, after initialization of the built-in device (CTC (counter / timer) and PIO (parallel input / output port) which are built-in devices (built-in peripheral circuits)) is performed (step S4), the RAM 55 is accessible. (Step S5). In the interrupt mode 2, the address synthesized from the value (1 byte) of the specific register (I register) built in the CPU 56 and the interrupt vector (1 byte: least significant bit 0) output from the built-in device is This mode indicates an interrupt address.

  Next, the CPU 56 checks the state of the output signal of the clear switch (for example, mounted on the power supply board) input via the input port (step S6). When the on-state is detected in the confirmation, the CPU 56 executes normal initialization processing (steps S10 to S15).

  If the clear switch is not on, check whether data protection processing of the backup RAM area (for example, power supply stop processing such as addition of parity data) was performed when power supply to the gaming machine was stopped (Step S7). When it is confirmed that such protection processing is not performed, the CPU 56 executes initialization processing. Whether there is backup data in the backup RAM area is confirmed, for example, by the state of the backup flag set in the backup RAM area in the power supply stop process.

  When it is confirmed that the power supply stop process has been performed, the CPU 56 performs data check of the backup RAM area (step S8). In this embodiment, a parity check is performed as a data check. Therefore, in step S8, the calculated checksum is compared with the checksum calculated and stored by the same process in the power supply stop process. When the power supply is stopped after an unexpected power failure or the like, the data in the backup RAM area should be saved, so the check result (comparison result) is normal (matched). That the check result is not normal means that the data in the backup RAM area is different from the data when the power supply is stopped. In such a case, since the internal state cannot be returned to the state when the power supply is stopped, an initialization process that is executed when the power is turned on is not performed when the power supply is stopped.

  If the check result is normal, the CPU 56 restores the game state recovery process (steps S41 to S44) for returning the internal state of the game control means and the control state of the electrical component control means such as the effect control means to the state when the power supply is stopped. Process). Specifically, the start address of the backup setting table stored in the ROM 54 is set as a pointer (step S41), and the contents of the backup setting table are sequentially set in the work area (area in the RAM 55) (step S42). ). The work area is backed up by a backup power source. In the backup setting table, initialization data for an area that may be initialized in the work area is set. As a result of the processing in steps S41 and S42, the saved contents of the work area that should not be initialized remain as they are. The part that should not be initialized is, for example, data indicating the gaming state before the power supply is stopped (special symbol process flag, probability variation flag, time reduction flag, etc.), and the area where the output state of the output port is saved (output port buffer) ), A portion in which data indicating the number of unpaid prize balls is set.

  Further, the CPU 56 transmits a power failure recovery designation command as an initialization command at the time of power supply recovery to the effect control board 80 (step S43). Furthermore, an effect designating command capable of specifying a stop symbol of the effect design (decorative design) is transmitted to the effect control board 80 (step S44). The effect symbol designation command to be transmitted is an effect symbol designation command based on data indicating the effect symbol designation command (the effect symbol designation command transmitted last before the power supply is stopped) stored in the backup RAM area. . The CPU 56 also transmits a background designation command. Then, the process proceeds to step S14.

  In this embodiment, it is confirmed whether the data in the backup RAM area is stored using both the backup flag and the check data. However, only one of them may be used. That is, either the backup flag or the check data may be used as an opportunity for executing the game state restoration process.

  In the initialization process, the CPU 56 first performs a RAM clear process (step S10). The RAM clear process initializes predetermined data (for example, count value data of a counter for generating a big hit determination random number) to 0, but is initialized to an arbitrary value or a predetermined value. You may make it do. Alternatively, the entire area of the RAM 55 may not be initialized, and predetermined data (for example, count value data of a counter for generating a big hit determination random number) may be left as it is. Further, the initial address of the initialization setting table stored in the ROM 54 is set as a pointer (step S11), and the contents of the initialization setting table are sequentially set in the work area in the RAM 55 (step S12).

  By the processing in steps S11 and S12, an initial value is set to a flag for selectively performing processing according to the control state, such as a special symbol process flag.

  Further, the CPU 56 initializes a sub board (a board on which a microcomputer other than the main board 31 is mounted) (a command indicating that the game control microcomputer 560 has executed an initialization process). Is also transmitted to the effect control board 80 (step S13). For example, when the effect control microcomputer 100 mounted on the effect control board 80 receives the initialization designation command, the effect display device 9 displays a screen for notifying that the control of the gaming machine has been initialized. Display, that is, initialization notification. In the initialization process, the CPU 56 also transmits a customer waiting demonstration designation (demo designation) command and a background designation command.

  Further, the CPU 56 executes a random number circuit setting process for initial setting of the random number circuit 503 (step S14). For example, the CPU 56 performs setting according to the random number circuit setting program to cause the random number circuit 503 to update the value of the random R.

  Then, the CPU 56 sets a CTC register built in the game control microcomputer 560 so that a timer interrupt is periodically taken every predetermined time (for example, 2 ms) (step S15). That is, a value corresponding to, for example, 2 ms is set in a predetermined register (time constant register) as an initial value. In this embodiment, it is assumed that a timer interrupt is periodically taken every 2 ms.

  When the execution of the initialization process (steps S10 to S15) is completed, the CPU 56 repeatedly executes the display random number update process (step S17) and the initial value random number update process (step S18) in the main process. When executing the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process, the interrupt disabled state is set (step S16). When the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process are finished, the interrupt enabled state is set. Set (step S19). In this embodiment, the display random number is a random number for determining a variation pattern or the like, and the display random number update process is a process for updating the count value of the counter for generating the display random number. . The initial value random number update process is a process for updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number. In this embodiment, the initial value random number is an initial value of a count value such as a counter for generating a random number for determining whether or not to hit a normal symbol (normal symbol determination random number generation counter). It is a random number for determining. A game control process for controlling the progress of the game, which will be described later (the game control microcomputer 560 controls game devices such as a variable display device, a variable winning ball device, a ball payout device, etc. provided in the game machine itself. In a process for transmitting a command signal to cause another microcomputer to control, or a game device control process), the count value of the random number generation counter for jackpot determination or the like is one round (minimum value that can be taken by random numbers) When the value is incremented by the number of values between the value and the maximum value), an initial value is set in the counter.

  When the timer interrupt occurs, the CPU 56 executes the timer interrupt process in steps S20 to S34 shown in FIG. In the timer interrupt process, first, a power-off detection process for detecting whether or not a power-off signal is output (whether or not an on-state is turned on) is executed (step S20). The power-off signal is output, for example, when the power monitoring circuit 920 mounted on the power board detects a decrease in the voltage of the power supplied to the gaming machine. In the power-off detection process, when detecting that the power-off signal has been output, the CPU 56 executes a power supply stop process for saving necessary data in the backup RAM area. Next, detection signals of the gate switch 32a, the start port switch 13a, the count switch 23, and the winning port switches 29a, 30a, 33a, and 39a are input via the input driver circuit 58, and the state determination is performed (switch processing). : Step S21).

  Next, the CPU 56 executes display control processing for performing display control of the special symbol display 8, the normal symbol display 10, the special symbol hold storage display 18, and the normal symbol hold storage display 41 (step S22). For the special symbol display 8 and the normal symbol display 10, control for outputting a drive signal to each display is executed according to the contents of the output buffer set in steps S32 and S33.

  Further, a process of updating the count value of each counter for generating each random number for determination such as a random number for determining a normal winning symbol used for game control is performed (determination random number update process: step S23). The CPU 56 further performs a process of updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number and the display random number (initial value random number update process, display random number update process: steps S24 and S25).

FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing each random number. It is explanatory drawing which shows each random number. Each random number is used as follows.
(1) Random 1: Determine a special symbol's off symbol (for off symbol determination)
(2) Random 2: Determine the special symbol jackpot symbol (for jackpot symbol determination)
(3) Random 3: Determine whether or not to reach (for reach determination)
(4) Random 4: Determines the variation pattern (variation time) of the jackpot symbol and the decorative symbol (for variation pattern determination)
(5) Random 5: Determines whether or not to generate a hit based on a normal symbol (for normal symbol hit determination)
(6) Random 6: Decide whether or not to execute the first effect in the promotion effect (for effect execution determination)
(7) Random 7: Determine the initial value of random 5 (for determining the random 5 initial value)

  In step S23 in the game control process shown in FIG. 6, the game control microcomputer 560 uses a counter for generating the jackpot symbol determining random number of (2) and the determining random number of normal symbol of (5). Count up (add 1). That is, they are determination random numbers, and other random numbers are display random numbers or initial value random numbers. In addition, in order to improve a game effect, you may make it use random numbers other than the random number of said (1)-(7). In this embodiment, the big hit determination random number is a random number generated by the hardware (random number circuit 503) built in the game control microcomputer 560. The big hit determination random number is used as the big hit determination random number. Software random numbers generated based on the program may be used.

  Further, the CPU 56 performs special symbol process processing (step S26). In the special symbol process, the corresponding symbol is executed in accordance with a special symbol process flag for controlling the special symbol display 8 and the special winning award in a predetermined order. The CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag according to the gaming state.

  Next, normal symbol process processing is performed (step S27). In the normal symbol process, the CPU 56 executes the corresponding process according to the normal symbol process flag for controlling the display state of the normal symbol display 10 in a predetermined order. The CPU 56 updates the value of the normal symbol process flag according to the gaming state.

  Further, the CPU 56 performs a process of sending an effect control command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (effect control command control process: step S28).

  Further, the CPU 56 performs information output processing for outputting data such as jackpot information, start information, probability variation information supplied to the hall management computer, for example (step S29).

  Further, the CPU 56 executes prize ball processing for setting the number of prize balls based on detection signals from the start port switch 13a, the count switch 23, and the prize opening switches 29a, 30a, 33a, and 39a (step S30). Specifically, the payout control mounted on the payout control board 37 in response to winning detection based on any of the start opening switch 13a, the count switch 23, and the winning opening switches 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a being turned on. The payout control command (prize ball number signal) indicating the number of prize balls is output to the microcomputer. The payout control microcomputer drives the ball payout device 97 in accordance with a payout control command indicating the number of winning balls.

  In this embodiment, a RAM area (output port buffer) corresponding to the output state of the output port is provided. However, the CPU 56 relates to on / off of the solenoid in the RAM area corresponding to the output state of the output port. The contents are output to the output port (step S31: output process).

  Further, the CPU 56 performs special symbol display control processing for setting special symbol display control data for effect display of the special symbol in the output buffer for setting the special symbol display control data according to the value of the special symbol process flag ( Step S32). For example, if the variation speed is 1 frame / 0.2 seconds until the end flag is set when the start flag set in the special symbol process is set, the CPU 56, for example, every 0.2 seconds passes. Then, the value of the display control data set in the output buffer is incremented by one. Further, the CPU 56 performs variable display of the special symbol on the special symbol display 8 by outputting a drive signal in step S22 according to the display control data set in the output buffer.

  Further, the CPU 56 performs a normal symbol display control process for setting normal symbol display control data for effect display of the normal symbol in the output buffer for setting the normal symbol display control data according to the value of the normal symbol process flag ( Step S33). For example, when the start flag related to the variation of the normal symbol is set, the CPU 56 switches the display state (“◯” and “×”) for the variation rate of the normal symbol every 0.2 seconds until the end flag is set. With such a speed, the value of the display control data set in the output buffer (for example, 1 indicating “◯” and 0 indicating “x”) is switched every 0.2 seconds. Further, the CPU 56 outputs a normal signal on the normal symbol display 10 by outputting a drive signal in step S22 according to the display control data set in the output buffer.

  Thereafter, the interrupt permission state is set (step S34), and the process is terminated.

  With the above control, in this embodiment, the game control process is started every 2 ms. The game control process corresponds to the processes in steps S21 to S33 (excluding step S29) in the timer interrupt process. In this embodiment, the game control process is executed by the timer interrupt process. However, in the timer interrupt process, for example, only a flag indicating that an interrupt has occurred is set, and the game control process is performed by the main process. May be executed.

  FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing a jackpot determination table. The jackpot determination table is a table in which a jackpot determination value to be compared with the random R is set. The jackpot determination table includes a normal jackpot determination table (see FIG. 8 (A)) used in a normal state (a gaming state that is not a probability change state) and a probability change jackpot determination table (see FIG. 8 (B)) used in a probability change state. ) The numerical values described in the left column of FIGS. 8A and 8B are jackpot determination values. The CPU 56 extracts the count value of the random number circuit 503 at a predetermined time and sets the extracted value as the value of the jackpot determination random number (random R). If it matches the big hit determination value, it is decided to make a big hit (probability big hit or normal big hit) for the special symbol. The “probability” shown in FIG. 8 indicates the probability (ratio) that a normal big hit, a probabilistic big hit, and a loss will occur. Further, determining whether or not to win a jackpot means determining whether or not to shift to the jackpot gaming state, but determining whether or not the stop symbol in the special symbol display 8 is a jackpot symbol. It is also a thing.

  The probable big hit is a big hit that shifts the gaming state after the big hit game to a probable state where there is a high probability of being determined to be a big hit compared to the normal state. The normal big hit is a big hit that causes the game state after the big hit game to shift to a normal state that is not a probable change state or that maintains the normal state.

  FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram of an effect execution determination table. The effect execution determination table is stored in the ROM 54 in the game control microcomputer 560, and the effect execution determination value that the CPU 56 compares with the value of random 6 (random number for determining the effect execution) is set. When the extracted random 6 matches one of the effect execution determination values, the CPU 56 determines to execute the first effect in the promotion effect. In this embodiment, it is determined that the first effect is executed at the same rate regardless of whether or not to make a big hit, and whether or not to make a promising big hit, The ratio of executing the first effect may be changed depending on whether or not to make a big hit and whether or not to make a promising big hit.

  FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a relationship between a special symbol stop symbol (final stop symbol) and a gaming state controlled thereafter. In the example shown in FIG. 10, when the stop symbol is an even symbol, the game is out of the game. When the stop symbol is an odd symbol, it is a big hit, and after the end of the change of the special symbol, the game shifts to the big hit game state. In this embodiment, the special symbol stop symbol is not divided into the probability variation big hit and the normal big hit. Therefore, the player cannot grasp the change of the gaming state from the stop symbol. The effect control microcomputer 100 performs a promotion effect for notifying of a probable big hit by an electrical component provided in the gaming machine at a predetermined time. Therefore, since the player can grasp the change of the gaming state only by the promotion effect, the interest of the game is improved. However, although it is difficult for the player to determine whether the special symbol is a big hit or a normal big hit, it may be displayed separately. In that case, it may be impossible to determine whether the stop symbol of the effect symbol (decoration symbol) is a probable big hit or a normal big hit.

  FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the stop symbol (final stop symbol) of the effect symbol (decorative symbol). In the example shown in FIG. 11, in the case of a big hit, a combination of symbols (matched symbol combination) is stopped and displayed on the effect display device 9 as a stop symbol of the left middle right effect symbol, but not a big hit. In the case of reaching, a combination of only the left and right symbols as stop symbols of the middle left and right effect symbols is stopped and displayed on the effect display device 9. When it is a case of losing and not reaching, a combination in which the left and right symbols do not match is stopped and displayed on the effect display device 9 as a stop symbol of the left middle right effect symbol. The effect symbols (decorative symbols) that are variably displayed and stopped on the effect display device 9 are numbers, alphabets, character-like symbols, symbols in which numbers or the like are displayed in the character-like display object, and any other symbols. It may be a symbol. In addition, it is the same as the case of a special symbol that the stop symbol of an effect design (decoration design) is not divided by probability variation big hit and normal big hit.

  FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the variation pattern (variation time) of the special symbol and the effect symbol (decoration symbol) used in this embodiment. The variation pattern indicates the variation time of the special symbol and the production symbol, but since the variation of the production symbol is synchronized with the variation of the special symbol, hereinafter, the variation pattern of the special symbol and the production symbol are simply described below. It may be expressed as a variation pattern.

  As shown in FIG. 12, in this embodiment, variation pattern # 1 (variation time 22 seconds), variation pattern # 2 (variation time 22 seconds), variation pattern # 3 (variation time 11 seconds), variation pattern # 4 In the first 4 seconds of the (variation time of 11 seconds), high-speed fluctuation (the displayed symbol switching timing is short) is performed. When 4 seconds have elapsed from the start of the variation, the same symbol is stopped and displayed as the left and right effect symbols (decorative symbols), and thereafter the middle symbol varies. Meanwhile, in the effect display device 9, a reach effect is executed by a character image or the like other than a design, and a reach effect synchronized with the effect in the effect display device 9 is executed by a light emitter such as an LED for the effect and the speaker 27. The

  In the variation pattern # 2 and the variation pattern # 4, only the first effect or the first effect and the second effect are executed during the reach effect period. In this embodiment, the first effect and the second effect are not executed during the high-speed fluctuation period, but the first effect and the second effect may be started during the high-speed fluctuation period.

  The fluctuation pattern # 5 is a fluctuation pattern in which only high-speed fluctuation for 4 seconds is executed. When 4 seconds have elapsed from the start of the change, the left middle right effect symbol (decorative symbol) is stopped and displayed. The fluctuation pattern # 5 is used when it is determined that the stop symbol is not a jackpot symbol.

  The fluctuation pattern # 6 is a fluctuation pattern in which only high-speed fluctuation for 2 seconds is executed. When 2 seconds have elapsed from the start of the fluctuation, the left middle right effect symbol (decorative symbol) is stopped and displayed. The variation pattern # 6 is used as a variation pattern when the gaming state is a short time state.

  FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the contents of the effect control command transmitted by the game control microcomputer 560. In the example shown in FIG. 13, commands 8001 (H) to 8006 (H) specify an effect designating a variation pattern of effect symbols (decorative symbols) variably displayed on the effect display device 9 in response to variable symbol special display. This is a control command (variation pattern command) (corresponding to variation patterns # 1 to # 6, respectively). “(H)” indicates a hexadecimal number. The effect control command for designating the variation pattern is also a command for designating the start of variation. Therefore, when the effect control microcomputer 100 receives any of the commands 8001 (H) to 8006 (H), the effect display device 9 controls the effect display device 9 to start variable display of the effect symbols (decorative symbols).

  The commands 8C01 (H) to 8C03 (H) are effect control commands indicating whether or not to make a big hit and the type of the big hit game. The production control microcomputer 100 determines the display result of the production symbols (decoration symbols) in response to the reception of the commands 8C01 (H) to 8C03 (H), and therefore the commands 8C01 (H) to 8C03 (H) are produced. This is called a specified command or a display result specifying command. However, as described above, in this embodiment, the display result of the effect symbol (decorative symbol) is not distinguished between the case of the normal big hit and the case of the probability variation big hit.

  Command 8F00 (H) is an effect control command (symbol confirmation designation command) indicating that the variable display (fluctuation) of the effect symbol (decoration symbol) is terminated and the display result (stop symbol) is derived and displayed. When receiving the symbol confirmation designation command, the effect control microcomputer 100 ends the variable display (fluctuation) of the effect symbol (decoration symbol) and derives and displays the display result.

  Command 9000 (H) is an effect control command (initialization designation command: power-on designation command) transmitted when power supply to the gaming machine is started. Commands 9200 (H) to 9202 (H) are production control commands (power failure recovery designation commands) transmitted when power supply to the gaming machine is resumed. When the power supply to the gaming machine is started, the gaming control microcomputer 560 stores a power failure recovery designation command when data is stored in the backup RAM (the backup flag may be set). If not, an initialization designation command is transmitted.

  The game control microcomputer 560 transmits different power failure recovery designation commands depending on the state when the power supply is stopped. That is, in the process of step S43 shown in FIG. 5, if it is determined that the special symbol is changing based on the data (for example, the special symbol process flag) stored in the backup RAM, the command 9201 ( H) Power failure recovery designation command is transmitted. When the special symbol is changing, a power failure recovery designation command of command 9202 (H) is transmitted.

  Although the name of the power failure recovery designation command is used, the game control microcomputer 560 starts from a power failure when data is stored in the backup RAM when power supply to the gaming machine is started. Send a power failure recovery designation command not only when it is recovered.

  Command 9500 (H) is an effect control command (normal background designation command) indicating that the gaming state is the normal state. The command 9501 (H) is an effect control command (short time background designation command) indicating that the gaming state is the short time state. Command 9502 (H) is an effect control command (probability change background designation command) indicating that the gaming state is a probability change state. In response to receiving these background designation commands (game state designation commands), the effect control microcomputer 100 sets the background on the display screen of the effect display device 9 as the background corresponding to the game state indicated by the background designation command.

  Command 9F00 (H) is an effect control command (customer waiting demonstration designation command) for designating a customer waiting demonstration.

  The command A001 (H) is an effect control command for displaying the fanfare screen, that is, designating the start of the big hit game (big hit start designation command: fanfare command). The command A1XX (H) is an effect control command (special command during opening of a big winning opening) indicating a display during the opening of the big winning opening for the number of times (round) indicated by XX. A2XX (H) is an effect control command (designation command after opening the big winning opening) indicating the closing of the big winning opening for the number of times (round) indicated by XX.

  Command A301 (H) is an effect control command (a jackpot end designation command: an ending command) that designates displaying a jackpot end screen, that is, designating the end of the jackpot game.

  14 and 15 are explanatory diagrams illustrating an example of the transmission timing of the effect control command. As shown in FIG. 14 (A), the game control microcomputer 560 starts the background designating command, the variation pattern command, and the production design designation command (production design 1 designation command, production design 2 designation command or production design) at the start of variation. 3 designation command) is transmitted. When the variable display time (fluctuation time) elapses, a symbol confirmation designation command is transmitted.

  In this embodiment, an effect designating command is transmitted at the start timing of the second effect. In addition, the effect designating command may be transmitted at the start timing of the first effect without transmitting the effect designating command at the start of variation.

  FIG. 14B shows an example in the big hit game. The game control microcomputer 560 transmits a jackpot start designation command at the start of a big hit game, transmits a big prize opening opening designation command at the start of each round, and designates a command after opening the big prize opening at the end of each round. And a jackpot end designation command is transmitted at the end of the jackpot game.

  FIG. 15A shows an example when power supply is started (when power is turned on). The game control microcomputer 560 transmits a power-on specification command and a background specification command, and then transmits a customer waiting demonstration specification command.

  FIG. 15B shows an example when power supply is resumed (when power failure is restored). After transmitting the power-on designation command background designation command, the game control microcomputer 560 sends the presentation symbol designation command (the last designation symbol designation command transmitted before the power supply is stopped) stored in the backup RAM area. An effect designating command based on the indicated data is transmitted.

  FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a special symbol process (step S26) program executed by the game control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) mounted on the main board 31. As described above, in the special symbol process, a process for controlling the special symbol display 8 and the special winning opening is executed. In the special symbol process, the CPU 56 performs the start opening switch passing process if the start opening switch 13a for detecting that the game ball has won the start winning opening 13 is turned on, that is, if a start winning is generated. Execute (Steps S311 and S312). Then, any one of steps S300 to S307 is performed.

  The processes in steps S300 to S307 are as follows.

  Special symbol normal processing (step S300): Executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is zero. When the game control microcomputer 560 is ready to start the variable display of the special symbol, it checks the number of reserved memories (the number of start winning memories). The reserved memory number can be confirmed by the count value of the reserved memory number counter. If the number of reserved memories is not 0, it is determined whether or not to win. When it is decided not to make a big hit, the off symbol is decided as the stop symbol of the special symbol display 8. When it is decided to make a big hit, the big hit symbol is decided. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (1 in this example) corresponding to step S301.

  Fluctuation pattern setting process (step S301): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 1. The game control microcomputer 560 determines the variation pattern and displays the variation time in the variation pattern (variable display time: the time from the start of variable display until the display result is derived and displayed (stop display)) in a special pattern. The variable display time is determined. Also, it is determined whether or not to execute the first effect. Then, a variation time timer for measuring the variation time of the special symbol is started. Thereafter, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (2 in this example) corresponding to step S302.

  Production symbol designation command transmission processing (step S302): This is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 2. Control for transmitting an effect designating command to the effect control microcomputer 100 is performed. When it is decided not to make a big hit, an effect design 1 designation command for designating the disparity is transmitted. When it is decided to make a normal big hit, an effect design 2 designation command for designating a normal big hit is transmitted. When it is determined that the probability variation jackpot is to be determined, an effect design 3 designation command for designating the probability variation jackpot is transmitted. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (3 in this example) corresponding to step S303.

  Special symbol changing process (step S303): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 3. When the variation time of the variation pattern selected in the variation pattern setting process elapses (the variation time timer set in step S301 times out, that is, the variation time timer value becomes 0), the internal state (special symbol process flag) is stepped. Update to a value corresponding to S304 (4 in this example).

  Special symbol stop process (step S304): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 4. The variable display on the special symbol display 8 is stopped and the stop symbol is derived and displayed. In addition, control for transmitting a symbol confirmation designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 is performed. If the big hit flag is set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (5 in this example) corresponding to step S305. If the big hit flag is not set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S300 (0 in this example). The effect control microcomputer 100 controls the effect display device 9 to stop the effect symbol (decoration symbol) when the symbol confirmation designation command transmitted by the game control microcomputer 560 is received.

  Preliminary winning opening opening process (step S305): This is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 5. In the pre-opening process for the big prize opening, control for opening the big prize opening is performed. Specifically, a counter (for example, a counter that counts the number of game balls that have entered the big prize opening) is initialized, and the solenoid 21 is driven to open the big prize opening. Also, the execution time of the special prize opening opening process is set by the timer, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S306 (6 in this example). The pre-opening process for the big winning opening is executed for each round, but when the first round is started, the pre-opening process for the big winning opening is also a process for starting the big hit game.

  Large winning opening opening process (step S306): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 6. A control for transmitting a presentation control command for round display during the big hit gaming state to the microcomputer 100 for the presentation control, a process for confirming that the closing condition for the big prize opening is satisfied, and the like are performed. If the closing condition for the special prize opening is satisfied and there are still remaining rounds, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (5 in this example) corresponding to step S305. When all the rounds are completed, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S307 (7 in this example).

  Big hit end process (step S307): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 7. Control is performed to cause the microcomputer 100 for effect control to perform display control for notifying the player that the big hit gaming state has ended. Further, a process for setting a flag (for example, a probability variation flag) indicating a gaming state is performed. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (0 in this example) corresponding to step S300.

  FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing the start port switch passing process in step S312. In the start port switch passing process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the reserved storage number is 4 which is the upper limit value (step S211). If the number of reserved memories is 4, the process is terminated.

  If the number of reserved memories is not 4, the value of the reserved memory number counter indicating the number of reserved memories is incremented by 1 (step S212). Further, the CPU 56 extracts software random numbers (counter value for generating a big hit symbol determination random number, etc.) and random R (big hit determination random number), and uses them as an extracted random number value of the reserved memory number counter. A process of storing in the storage area in the storage buffer corresponding to the value is executed (step S213). In step S213, the CPU 56 extracts random values 1 to 4, 6 (see FIG. 7) as software random numbers. In the reserved storage buffer, the same number of storage areas as the upper limit value of the number of reserved memories is secured. Further, a counter for generating a jackpot symbol determination random number and the like and a reserved storage buffer are formed in the RAM 55. “Formed in RAM” means an area in the RAM.

  18 and 19 are flowcharts showing the special symbol normal process (step S300) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol normal process, the game control microcomputer 560 causes the CPU 56 to check the value of the number of reserved memories (step S51). Specifically, the count value of the pending storage number counter is confirmed. If the number of reserved memories is 0, the process is terminated.

  If the reserved memory number is not 0, the CPU 56 reads out each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the reserved memory number = 1 in the reserved memory number buffer of the RAM 55 and stores it in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55 (step S52). Then, the value of the reserved memory number is decreased by 1 (the count value of the reserved memory number counter is decremented by 1), and the contents of each storage area are shifted (step S53). That is, each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the reserved memory number = n (n = 2, 3, 4) in the reserved memory number buffer of the RAM 55 is stored in the storage area corresponding to the reserved memory number = n−1. To store. Therefore, the order in which the random number values stored in the respective storage areas corresponding to the number of reserved memories is extracted always matches the order of the number of reserved memories = 1, 2, 3 and 4. Yes.

  Then, the CPU 56 reads the big hit determination random number from the random number buffer area (step S61), and executes the big hit determination process (step S62). The jackpot determination process is configured such that when the gaming state is a probable change state (high probability state), the probability of a big hit is higher than when the gaming state is a non-probability change state (normal game state and short-time state). ing. Specifically, the probability change jackpot determination table (see FIG. 8 (B)) in which a large number of jackpot determination values are set in advance and the number of jackpot determination values are set to be smaller than those in the probability variation jackpot determination table. An hourly big hit determination table (see FIG. 8A) is provided. Then, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the gaming state is a probability variation state. If the gaming state is a probability variation state, the jackpot determination process is performed using the probability variation jackpot determination table, and the gaming state is normal. When in the gaming state, the big hit determination process is performed using the normal big hit determination table. That is, when the value of the big hit determination random number (random R) matches any of the big hit determination values shown in FIG. 8, the CPU 56 determines that the special symbol is a big hit (probability big hit or normal big hit).

  Note that whether or not the current gaming state is the probability variation state is determined by whether or not the probability variation flag is set. The probability variation flag is set when the gaming state is shifted to the probability variation state, and is reset when the probability variation state is terminated. Specifically, it is set in a process for ending a big hit game with a probable change symbol, and is set in a process for ending the big hit game with a non-probable change symbol.

  When it is determined to be a big hit in the big hit determination process (step S63), the CPU 56 sets a big hit flag (step S71). Next, the CPU 56 reads the value of the jackpot symbol determining random number from the random number buffer area (step S72), and determines the stop symbol based on the value of the jackpot symbol determining random number (step S73). In addition, it is confirmed whether or not it is determined to be a probability variation big hit as the type of jackpot (step S74). If it is determined to be a probability variation big hit, a probability variation big hit flag is set (step S75), and the process proceeds to step S70.

  If it is decided not to win the game, the CPU 56 reads out the value of the random symbol for determining the out-of-sequence from the random number buffer area (step S64), and determines the stop symbol based on the value of the random number for determining out-of-sequence (step S65). ).

  Further, when the time reduction flag indicating the time reduction state is set (step S66), the value of the time reduction counter indicating the number of possible changes of the special symbol in the time reduction state is decremented by 1 (step S67). When the value of the time reduction counter becomes 0, a time reduction end flag is set in order to shift the gaming state to the non-time reduction state when the variable display ends (steps S68 and S69). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern setting process (step S301) (step S70).

  FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing the variation pattern setting process (step S301) in the special symbol process. In the variation pattern setting process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the big hit flag is set (step S100), and if the big hit flag is not set, reads the value of the reach determination random number from the random number buffer area (step S100). S103), it is determined whether or not to reach based on the value of the reach determination random number (step S104). In the process of step S103, if the value of the reach determination random number matches any of the predetermined reach determination values, it is determined to reach. Then, data indicating whether or not to reach is stored in the RAM 55. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S105.

  When the big hit flag is set, the value of the random number for effect execution determination is read from the random number buffer area (step S101), and it is determined whether or not to execute the first effect based on the value of the random number for effect execution determination. (Step S105). Specifically, when the value of the random number for effect execution determination matches one of the effect execution determination values shown in FIG. 9, it is determined to execute the first effect. Then, data indicating whether or not to execute the first effect is stored in the RAM 55. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S105.

  Note that the processing of steps S101 and S102 may be executed at the start timing of the first effect without executing the processing of steps S101 and S102 in the variation pattern setting processing.

  In step S105, the CPU 56 reads the value of the random number for determining the variation pattern from the random number buffer area. Then, the variation pattern to be used is determined based on the value of the variation pattern determination random number (step S106).

  Specifically, when the big hit flag is not set, when it is not determined to reach, the variation pattern # 5 or the variation pattern # 6 illustrated in FIG. 12 is determined. When it is decided to reach, the fluctuation pattern is determined using the deviation fluctuation pattern table. The deviation variation pattern table is stored in the ROM 54, and variation pattern determination values corresponding to the variation patterns # 1 to # 4 are set in the deviation variation pattern table. The CPU 56 determines a variation pattern corresponding to the variation pattern determination value that matches the variation pattern determination random number. Note that the variation pattern determination value is set so that the variation pattern # 2 or # 4 is selected with the probability (9/179) shown in FIG.

  In addition, when the big hit flag is set, when it is decided to execute the first effect, the fluctuation pattern is determined using the first effect change pattern table at the big hit. The first effect variation pattern table for the big hit is stored in the ROM 54, and the variation pattern determination value corresponding to the variation pattern # 2 and the variation pattern determination value corresponding to the variation pattern # 4 are stored in the first effect variation pattern table for the big hit. Is set. The CPU 56 determines a variation pattern corresponding to the variation pattern determination value that matches the variation pattern determination random number. When it is not determined to execute the first effect, the variation pattern is determined using the big hit reach variation pattern table. The big hit hour reach fluctuation pattern table is stored in the ROM 54. In the big hit hour reach fluctuation pattern table, a fluctuation pattern judgment value corresponding to the fluctuation pattern # 1 and a fluctuation pattern judgment value corresponding to the fluctuation pattern # 3 are set. . The CPU 56 determines a variation pattern corresponding to the variation pattern determination value that matches the variation pattern determination random number.

  And CPU56 performs control which transmits the background designation | designated command (refer FIG. 13) according to a game state to the microcomputer 100 for production control (step S107). Specifically, when the CPU 56 transmits an effect control command to the effect control microcomputer 100, the address of the command transmission table (preliminarily set for each command in the ROM 54) corresponding to the effect control command is used as a pointer. set. And the address of the command transmission table according to an effect control command is set to a pointer, and an effect control command is transmitted in an effect control command control process (step S28). The CPU 56 determines the gaming state based on whether or not a probability change flag or a time reduction flag is set. In other words, if the probability change flag is set, it is in the probability change state and the background specification command is transmitted at the time of probability change, and if the time reduction flag is set, it is in the time reduction state and the time reduction background specification command is transmitted. In other cases, a normal background designation command is transmitted.

  Further, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a variation pattern command (see FIG. 13) corresponding to the variation pattern selected in step S106 to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S108). Further, data indicating the transmitted variation pattern command is set (written) in the RAM 55 (step S109). When a variation pattern command with the first effect is transmitted, the first effect flag is set in a predetermined area of the RAM 55. That is, the command output means in the game control means outputs an effect control command capable of specifying execution of the first effect, and the game control means outputs the first effect when the command output means outputs the effect control command. May be stored in the storage means. According to such a configuration, it is possible to immediately determine whether or not to execute the second effect based on the data stored in the storage unit.

  In this embodiment, the game control microcomputer 560 designates whether or not to execute the first effect with the variation pattern command to the effect control microcomputer 100. However, the game control microcomputer 560 may specify whether or not to execute the first effect by a command different from the variation pattern command (for example, an effect control command that specifies execution of the first effect). .

  Then, the variation of the special symbol is started (step S110). For example, a start flag referred to in the special symbol display control process in step S33 is set. Further, a value corresponding to the variation time (see FIG. 12) corresponding to the selected variation pattern is set in the variation time timer formed in the RAM 55 (step S111). Thereafter, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the effect symbol designation command transmission process (step S302) (step S112).

  FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing the effect symbol designation command transmission process (step S302). In the effect symbol designation command transmission processing, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit any effect control command (see FIG. 13) of 8C01 (H) to 8C03 (H) according to the determined type of jackpot. . Specifically, the CPU 56 first checks whether or not the big hit flag is set (step S114). If it is not set, control is performed to transmit a production symbol 1 designation command (offset designation command) (step S115). Then, control goes to a step S119.

  When the big hit flag is set, when the probability variation big hit flag is set, control is performed to transmit the production symbol 3 designation command (probability variation big hit designation command) to the production control microcomputer 100 (steps S116 and S118). When the probability variation jackpot flag is not set, control is performed to transmit the effect symbol 2 designation command (normal jackpot designation command) to the effect control microcomputer 100 (steps S116 and S117). Then, control goes to a step S119. As described above, the game control microcomputer 560 transmits the design symbol 3 designation command if it is predetermined to be a probable big hit, and otherwise, the design symbol 1 designation command or the production symbol. 2 Send a specified command. Therefore, in the effect control microcomputer 100, the game control microcomputer 560 makes a probable big hit based on the received effect symbol designation command (effect symbol 1 designation command, effect symbol 2 designation command or effect symbol 3 designation command). In particular, it is possible to specify what has been decided in advance.

  In step S119, the CPU 56 sets the data indicating the effect symbol designation command transmitted in the processing of steps S115, S117, and S118 in the RAM 55, and sets the internal state (special symbol process flag) to the special symbol changing process (step S303). The corresponding value is updated (step S120).

  FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing the special symbol changing process (step S303) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol changing process, the CPU 56 decrements the variable time timer by 1 (step S121), and when the variable time timer times out (step S122), the value of the special symbol process flag corresponds to the special symbol stop process (step S304). The updated value is updated (step S123). If the variable time timer has not timed out, control is performed to transmit an effect symbol designation command when the value of the variable time timer becomes a value corresponding to a predetermined start timing of the second effect (step S124, S125). Note that the start timing of the second effect arrives after the first effect ends. The effect symbol designation command transmitted in the process of step S125 is the effect symbol designation command stored in the RAM 55 in the process of step S119.

  In this embodiment, the game control microcomputer 560 also transmits the effect symbol designation command again at the start timing of the second effect even when the effect symbol 1 designation command (offset designation command) is transmitted at the start of variation. However, since the second effect is not executed when an effect symbol 1 designation command (outgoing designation command) is transmitted at the start of variation, the second effect is performed when an effect symbol 1 designation command (outage designation command) is transmitted at the start of variation. You may comprise so that an effect symbol designation | designated command may not be transmitted in the timing of the start of an effect.

  FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing the special symbol variation stop process (step S304) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol variation stop process, the CPU 56 stops the variation of the special symbol in the special symbol display 8 and derives and displays the stopped symbol (step S130). Further, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a symbol confirmation designation command for designating the stop of the variation of the decorative symbols in the effect display device 9 to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S131). And it is confirmed whether the big hit flag is set (step S132). If the big hit flag is not set, the process proceeds to step S141 (step S133).

  When the big hit flag is set, the CPU 56 resets the probability variation flag (step S133), and performs control to transmit a big hit start designation command (fanfare command) (step S134).

  Also, a value corresponding to the big hit display time (time for notifying the fact that the big hit has occurred, for example, in the effect display device 9) is set in the big hit display time timer (step S136). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the pre-winner opening pre-processing (step S305) (step S137).

  In step S141, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the time reduction end flag is set. If the time reduction end flag is set, the time reduction end flag is reset and the time reduction flag is reset (steps S142 and S143). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special symbol normal process (step S300) (step S144).

  In the big winning opening opening pre-processing, when the big hit display time timer is set, the CPU 56 controls to open the big winning opening when the big hit display time timer times out, and sets the big winning opening opening time timer. A value corresponding to the opening time (for example, 29 seconds) is set, and the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special winning opening opening process (step S306). The case where the big hit display time timer is set is the case before the start of the first round. If an interval timer (a timer for determining the interval time between rounds) is set, when the interval timer times out, control is performed to open the grand prize opening, and the opening time is set to the big prize opening time timer. A corresponding value is set, and the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special winning opening opening process (step S306).

  In the process during opening of the big prize opening, the CPU 56 does not finish the final round when the big prize opening time timer times out or the number of winning balls to the big prize opening reaches a predetermined number (for example, 10). In this case, control for closing the special winning opening is performed, a value corresponding to the interval time is set in the interval timer, and the value of the special symbol process flag is set to a value corresponding to the pre-opening process for the special winning opening (step S305). Update. When the final round is completed, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the jackpot end process (step S307).

  FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing the jackpot end process (step S307) in the special symbol process. In the jackpot end process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the jackpot end display timer is set (step S170). If the jackpot end display timer is set, the process proceeds to step S181. If the big hit end display timer is not set, a time reduction flag is set to shift the gaming state to the time reduction state (step S171), and 100 is set in the time reduction counter (step S172).

  Further, the big hit flag is reset (step S173), and a control for transmitting a big hit end designation command (ending command) is performed (step S174). If the probability variation jackpot flag is set, the probability variation jackpot flag is reset (steps S176 and S177), and the probability variation flag is set to shift the gaming state to the probability variation state (step S178). Then, a value corresponding to the display time corresponding to the time during which the big hit end display is performed in the effect display device 9 (big hit end display time) is set in the big hit end display timer (step S179), and the processing is ended.

  In step S181, 1 is subtracted from the value of the big hit end display timer. Then, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the jackpot end display timer is 0, that is, whether or not the jackpot end display time has elapsed (step S182). If not, the process ends. If it has elapsed, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special symbol normal process (step S300) (step S183).

  Next, the operation of the effect control means will be described. FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing main processing executed by the effect control microcomputer 100 (specifically, effect control CPU 101) as effect control means mounted on the effect control board 80. The effect control CPU 101 starts executing the main process when the power is turned on. In the main processing, first, initialization processing is performed for clearing the RAM area, setting various initial values, and initializing a timer for determining the activation control activation interval (for example, 2 ms) (step S701). . Thereafter, the effect control CPU 101 proceeds to a loop process for monitoring a timer interrupt flag (step S702). When a timer interrupt occurs, the effect control CPU 101 sets a timer interrupt flag in the timer interrupt process. If the timer interrupt flag is set in the main process, the effect control CPU 101 clears the flag (step S703) and executes the following effect control process.

  In the effect control process, the effect control CPU 101 first analyzes the received effect control command and performs a process of setting a flag according to the received effect control command (command analysis process: step S704). Next, the effect control CPU 101 performs effect control process processing (step S705). In the effect control process, the process corresponding to the current control state (effect control process flag) is selected from the processes corresponding to the control state, and display control of the effect display device 9 is executed.

  Next, a random number update process for updating the count value of a counter for generating random numbers such as a stop symbol determination random number, a first effect type selection random number, a second effect type selection random number, or the like is executed (step S706). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S702.

  FIG. 26 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of a command reception buffer for storing the effect control command received from the game control microcomputer 560 of the main board 31. In this example, a command reception buffer of a ring buffer type capable of storing six 2-byte configuration effect control commands is used. Therefore, the command reception buffer is configured by a 12-byte area of reception command buffers 1 to 12. A command reception number counter indicating in which area the received command is stored is used. The command reception number counter takes a value from 0 to 11. The ring buffer format is not necessarily required.

  The effect control command transmitted from the game control microcomputer 560 is received by an interrupt process based on the effect control INT signal, and is stored in a buffer area formed in the RAM 112. In the command analysis process, it is analyzed which command (see FIG. 13) is the effect control command stored in the buffer area.

  FIG. 27 is a flowchart showing the initialization process in step S701. In the initialization process, the effect control CPU 101 initializes the contents of the RAM 112 in the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S711). Next, the initial address of the initialization setting table stored in the ROM 111 is set as a pointer (step S712), and the contents of the initialization setting table are sequentially set in the work area in the RAM 112 (step S713). The initial values of the data necessary for effect control are set by the processing of steps S712 and S713. In particular, data indicating the character P is set in the first effect character buffer 112a (see FIG. 3) in the RAM 112, and the second Data indicating the character A is set in the effect character buffer 112b (see FIG. 3). Next, the circuit built in the production control microcomputer 100 is initialized (step S714). In particular, the timer circuit built in the production control microcomputer 100 is initialized so that a timer interrupt is periodically generated every predetermined time (for example, 2 ms). Also, the VDP 109 is initialized (step S715).

  In the initialization process, by setting data as the initial value in the first effect character buffer 112a and the second effect character buffer 112b, for example, when the effect designating command cannot be received, the first effect character It is possible to execute the first effect and the second effect based on the data set in the buffer 112a and the second effect character buffer 112b.

  28 and 29 are flowcharts showing a specific example of the command analysis processing (step S704). The effect control command received from the main board 31 is stored in the reception command buffer, but in the command analysis process, the effect control CPU 101 confirms the contents of the command stored in the command reception buffer.

  In the command analysis process, the effect control CPU 101 first checks whether or not a reception command is stored in the command reception buffer (step S611). Whether it is stored or not is determined by comparing the value of the command reception number counter with the read pointer. The case where both match is the case where the received command is not stored. When the reception command is stored in the command reception buffer, the effect control CPU 101 reads the reception command from the command reception buffer (step S612). When read, the value of the read pointer is incremented by +2 (step S613). The reason for +2 is that 2 bytes (1 command) are read at a time.

  If the received effect control command is a background designation command (step S614), the effect control CPU 101 stores the background designation command in the background designation command storage area formed in the RAM 112 (step S615).

  If the received effect control command is a variation pattern command (step S616), the effect control CPU 101 stores the variation pattern command in a variation pattern command storage area formed in the RAM 112 (step S617). Then, a variation pattern command reception flag is set (step S618).

  If the received effect control command is an effect symbol designation command (step S619), the effect control CPU 101 sends the effect symbol designation command (effect symbol 1 designation command, effect symbol 2 designation command or effect symbol 3 designation command), The effect designating command storage area formed in the RAM 112 is stored (step S620).

  If the received effect control command is a symbol confirmation designation command (step S621), the effect control CPU 101 sets a confirmed command reception flag (step S622).

  If the received effect control command is a jackpot start designation command (fanfare command) (step S623), the effect control CPU 101 sets a fanfare command reception flag (step S624).

  If the received effect control command is a power-on specification command (initialization specification command) (step S631), the effect control CPU 101 displays an initial screen on the effect display device 9 indicating that the initialization process has been executed. Control is performed (step S632). The initial screen includes an initial display of predetermined production symbols.

  If the received effect control command is a power failure recovery designation command (step S633), a predetermined power failure recovery screen (screen for displaying information notifying the player that the gaming state is continuing) is displayed. Display control is performed (step S634), and the received power failure recovery designation command is stored in the power failure recovery designation command storage area formed in the RAM 112 (step S635).

  Further, when the received power failure recovery designation command is a command for designating that it is fluctuating (9201 (H): see FIG. 13), the value of the production symbol process flag corresponds to the production symbol variation start process. The set value is set (steps S636 and S637). Also, if the received power failure recovery designation command is a command designating that a big hit game is being played (9202 (H): see FIG. 13), the value of the production symbol process flag corresponds to the big hit game process. The set value is set (steps S638 and S639).

  If the received effect control command is a jackpot end designation command (ending command) (step S645), the effect control CPU 101 sets an ending command reception flag (step S646).

  The RAM 112 in the effect control microcomputer 100 is not backed up. The RAM 55 in the game control microcomputer 560 is backed up, and when the contents of the RAM 55 are stored in the state before the occurrence of a power failure or the like at the time of recovery from a power failure or the like, the data indicating the game state stored in the RAM 55 is stored. A type of power failure recovery designation command according to (for example, the value of the special symbol process flag) is transmitted (see step S43 in FIG. 5). And the control state of the production control microcomputer 100 is restored to the state before the occurrence of a power failure or the like by the processes of steps S636 to S639.

  Next, the promotion effects (first effect and second effect) will be described. FIG. 30 is an explanatory diagram regarding selection of the type of the first effect. FIG. 31 is an explanatory diagram regarding the selection of the type of the second effect, and is an explanatory diagram showing the expectation of each type of the first effect and the combination of the type of the first effect and the type of the second effect. FIG. 32 is an explanatory diagram showing the type of the first effect and the type of the second effect.

  Specifically, FIG. 30 is an explanatory diagram showing determination values that are compared with the value of the first effect type selection random number and that correspond to the first effect type. In this embodiment, there are four types that use each of the characters P to Q as the types of first effects. However, FIG. 30 shows the number of determination values, not specific determination values. The determination values are set as a table in the ROM 111 of the effect control microcomputer 100. The table is provided in accordance with the result determined by the game control microcomputer 560 (the determination result of the prior determination means). The effect control microcomputer 100 determines the result determined by the pre-determining means in the game control microcomputer 560 by the received effect designating command (an example of a command that can specify the display result of the variable display of the identification information). be able to.

  In the example shown in FIG. 30, when it is determined to be out of play, the character R (選 択) is selected at a higher rate than when it is determined to be a big hit, and the character Q (chicken) ) And the character S (蟹) are selected at a low rate. In addition, when it is determined to be a big hit, when it is determined to be a probable big hit, the character S (蟹) is selected compared to when it is normally determined to be a big hit. The ratio is high. That is, each of the characters P to Q is selected according to both the degree of expectation of jackpot and the degree of expectation of probability variation promotion. In other words, each of the characters P to Q shows both the jackpot expectation and the probability variation promotion expectation.

  Specifically, FIG. 31 is an explanatory diagram showing determination values that are compared with the value of the second effect type selection random number and that correspond to each of the second effect types. In this embodiment, there are three types of characters that are used for the characters A to C as the types of second effects. However, FIG. 31 shows the number of determination values, not specific determination values. The determination values are set as a table in the ROM 111 of the effect control microcomputer 100. Further, the production control microcomputer 100 normally uses the table illustrated in FIG. 31A when it is determined to be a big hit, and if it is determined to be a probable big hit, FIG. 31B. The table shown as an example is used.

  The determination value is assigned to each of the characters A to C in accordance with the type of the first effect. In other words, the production control microcomputer 100 determines the type of the second effect based on the type of the first effect and the determination result of the prior decision means (whether it is a probable big hit or a normal big hit).

  Further, for example, the combination of character Q and character A and the combination of character R and character C are not selected when the jackpot is normally determined. In other words, when it is determined to be a probable big hit, the combination of the character Q and the character A or the combination of the character R and the character C is selected at a high rate (100% in this example).

  FIG. 32A shows the jackpot reliability of the type of first effect based on the jackpot probability shown in FIG. 8, the first effect execution probability shown in FIG. 9, and the ratio of the number of determination values shown in FIG. Yes. That is, the ratio that is a big hit when the first effect using each of the characters P to S is executed is shown. As shown in FIG. 32A, the jackpot reliability of the characters Q and S is higher than the jackpot reliability of the characters P and R. In other words, the production control microcomputer 100 is determined to have a big hit (corresponding to the variable display display result of the identification information as a specific display result) and not to have a big hit. The selection ratio of each of the plurality of types of first effects is different depending on when the character is present, but when it is determined to be a big hit, the characters Q and S are selected at a higher ratio than the characters P and R. .

  FIG. 32B shows the promotion reliability of the type of the first effect based on the jackpot probability shown in FIG. 8, the first effect execution probability shown in FIG. 9, and the ratio of the number of determination values shown in FIG. Yes. That is, the ratio of the probability variation big hit when the first effect using each of the characters P to S is executed is shown. As shown in FIG. 32B, the promotion reliability of the characters R and S is higher than the big hit reliability of the characters P and Q. In other words, the production control microcomputer 100 determines the selection ratio of each of the first types of plural types depending on whether it is decided to be a probable big hit or a normal big win. Although it is different, when it is determined that the probability big hit is selected, the characters R and S are selected at a higher rate than the characters P and Q. In addition, the ratio that becomes a probable big hit corresponds to the ratio (promotion success percentage) in which the probable big hit is notified in the promotion effect (specifically, the second effect). In addition, failure to be notified of the probable big hit in the promotion effect may be referred to as promotion failure.

  FIG. 32C shows the types of the first effect and the second effect based on the jackpot probability shown in FIG. 8, the first effect execution probability shown in FIG. 9, and the ratio of the number of determination values shown in FIG. The promotion confidence of the combination is shown. That is, the ratio of the probable big hit when the promotion effect using each combination of the first effect type and the second effect type is executed is shown. As shown in FIG. 32C, the combination of character Q and character A, and the combination of character R and character C have the highest promotion reliability, and the combination of character Q and character C, and the combination of character R and character B Has the second highest reliability of promotion.

  In FIG. 33, the type of the first effect (characters P to Q) is shown as “first effect character”, and the type of the second effect (characters A to C) is shown as “second effect character”. . Characters P to Q (character 9p, character q, character r, and character s) and characters A to C (character 9a, character 9b, and character 9c) are character images displayed on the effect display device 9.

  In this embodiment, since there is only one kind of effect for each of the characters P to Q, each of the characters P to Q is set as the type of the first effect, that is, the type of the first effect is set as 4. When there are a plurality of types of effects for each of the characters P to Q, the number of types of first effects is 4 (each of the characters P to Q) × (the number of types of effects for each of the characters P to Q). )become.

  Further, since each character A to C has one type of production, each of the characters A to C is set as the type of the second production. Strictly speaking, the characters A to C using the characters P to Q respectively. Since each effect is executed, the number of types of second effects is 12, as shown in FIG. However, combinations that are not executed (combinations corresponding to the number of determination values 0) are provided. In addition, when there are a plurality of types of effects for each of the characters A to C, the number of types of second effects is further increased.

  Next, specific examples of the first effect and the second effect will be described with reference to the explanatory diagrams of FIGS. In the example shown in FIG. 34, on the display screen of the effect display device 9, when the left middle right effect symbol (decoration symbol) fluctuates (see FIG. 34A) and reach (see FIG. 34B), The first effect using the character 9p (pig) is being executed while the effect symbol (decoration symbol) is changing (see FIGS. 34C to 34E). When a display effect is made such that the character 9p falls down by the hammer 9f by the main character 9e (see FIG. 34 (F)), after a display notifying that a big hit is made as shown in FIG. 34 (G), During the big hit game, the second effect is executed (see FIGS. 34H to 34J). The effect as shown in FIG. 34 corresponds to the effect of variation pattern # 2 or # 4 in FIG. In FIG. 34, the display state of the effect display device 9 is sequentially shifted from the state shown in (A) toward the state shown in (J). The same applies to FIGS.

  Also, when the first effect ends, the left, middle, and right decorative symbols change in a uniform state (see FIGS. 34 (F) and (G)). Further, during the execution of the second effect, in the symbol display area 9A, a so-called full-rotation reach mode in which the left, middle, and right decorative symbols change at high speed in a uniform state is obtained.

  In the example shown in FIG. 34, the second effect using the character 9b is executed (see FIGS. 34 (I) and (J)). Note that the state shown in FIG. 34J is a state in the middle of the second effect. In the second effect, the character used in the first effect (character 9p in the example shown in FIG. 34) is used.

  35 (K) to (P) show the effects following the effects in the state shown in FIG. 34 (J), and show the second effects in the case of successful promotion. In the example shown in FIG. 35, the character 9b (Western chef) and another character (the main character 9e) have completed cooking using the character 9p as an ingredient (FIG. 35 (K)). reference). Furthermore, a state where the character 9b has completed cooking using the character 9p as an ingredient is shown (see FIG. 35L). Then, the tasting person 9g tastes the dish completed by the hero character 9e and the dish completed by the character 9b (see FIG. 35M), and the tasting person 9g gives the hero character 9e a high score. An effect is shown in which the character 9e wins and is promoted successfully (see FIGS. 35N to 35P).

  36 (K) to (P) show the effects following the effects in the state shown in FIG. 34 (J), and show the second effects in the case of promotion failure. In the example shown in FIG. 36, a state in which the main character 9e has completed cooking using the character 9p as an ingredient is shown (see FIG. 36 (K)). Furthermore, a state where the character 9b has completed cooking using the character 9p as an ingredient is shown (see FIG. 36L). Then, the taster tastes the dish completed by the main character 9e and the dish completed by the character 9b (see FIG. 36M), the taster 9g gives the character 9b a high score, and the character 9b An effect of victory and promotion failure is shown (see FIGS. 36 (M) to (P)). That is, a display effect for notifying that it was a normal big hit is performed (see FIG. 36 (P)).

  In FIG. 37, on the display screen of the effect display device 9, when the left middle right effect symbol (decoration symbol) fluctuates (see FIG. 37A) and reach (see FIG. 37B), the effect symbol An example is shown in which the first effect using the character 9p is executed while the (decoration pattern) is changing (see FIGS. 37C to 37E). And the display effect that the character 9p did not fall down by the hammer 9f by the hero character 9e is made (see FIG. 37 (F)), and as shown in FIG. 37 (G), the stop symbol of the effect symbol (decorative symbol) ( As the final stop symbol), the off symbol is displayed. Note that the effect as shown in FIG. 37 is determined to be out of the way, but when it is determined to reach, and the effect of the fluctuation pattern when it is determined to execute the first effect. Equivalent to. That is, it corresponds to the effect of the fluctuation pattern # 2 or # 4 in FIG. In the example shown in FIG. 37, the second effect is not executed.

  In the examples shown in FIGS. 34 to 37, in the effect display device 9 in the first effect and the second effect, the first effect and the second effect are displayed continuously in time, but temporarily. It may be displayed or displayed intermittently. For example, a display effect may be performed only for a short period (for example, several seconds), or a short-term display effect may be executed a plurality of times during a period in which the display effect is not performed.

  34 to 37 illustrate an effect using the character 9p and the character 9b, but other combinations of characters (a combination of the characters 9p and 9a, 9c, and characters 9q, 9r, 9s). All of the combinations of any of the characters 9a, 9b, and 9c) are also prepared.

  FIGS. 34 (E) and 37 (E), (F) show examples of effects in which the hero character 9e has a hammer 9f. Good. Further, the jackpot expectation degree and the probability change promotion expectation degree may be changed according to the combination of the hammer, the sword, the spear and the like and the character in the first effect. If an effect using a hammer, a sword, a spear or the like is a third effect, the degree of expectation may be notified by a combination of the first to third effects.

  Next, the flow of processing of the first effect and the second effect by the game control microcomputer 560 and the effect control microcomputer 100 will be described. As shown in FIG. 38, the game control microcomputer 560 as the game control means transmits a change pattern command and an effect symbol designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 as the effect control means at the start of change. (Refer to step S109 in FIG. 20 and steps S115, S117, and S118 in FIG. 21). When the effect control microcomputer 100 is designated to execute the first effect by the variation pattern command, the received effect designating command is received. The type of the first effect is determined on the basis of the (design symbol 1 designation command (offset designation command), production symbol 2 designation command (normal jackpot designation command) or production symbol 3 designation command (probability variation jackpot designation command)). Specifically, the table corresponding to the production symbol designation command is selected from the three tables shown in FIG. 30 (corresponding to the outlier column, the normal jackpot column, and the probability variation jackpot column), and the first production type selection is selected. A count value for generating a random number for use is extracted as a value of a first effect type selection random number, and a character corresponding to a determination value that matches the value of the first effect type selection random number is selected as the first effect type. select. Further, data indicating the type of the first effect is set in the first effect character buffer 112a in the RAM 112.

  During the change, specifically, at the timing of starting the second effect, the game control microcomputer 560 sends an effect symbol designation command (effect symbol 1 designation command (offset designation command), An effect symbol 2 designation command (normal jackpot designation command) or an effect symbol 3 designation command (probability variation jackpot designation command)) is transmitted (see steps S124 and S125 in FIG. 22). When receiving the effect designating command, the effect control microcomputer 100 determines the type of the second effect based on the received effect designating command and the data indicating the type of the first effect stored in the RAM 112. Specifically, in order to select the table shown in FIG. 31A or the table shown in FIG. 31B in accordance with the received effect designating command, and generate a second effect type selection random number. Is extracted as a second effect type selection random number value, and the character corresponding to the determination value that matches the second effect type selection random number value in the selected table is selected as the second effect type random value. .

  Since the character used in the first effect is used in the second effect, the combination of the type of the first effect and the type of the second effect is determined by determining the type of the second effect. Become. Also, the type of effect symbol designation command (the effect symbol 1 designation command (offset designation command), the effect symbol 2 designation command (normal jackpot designation command) or the effect to be transmitted at the timing when the game control microcomputer 560 starts the second effect. The design 3 designation command (probability change jackpot designation command) is the same as the type of the production design designation command transmitted at the start of the change, and the production control microcomputer 100 designates the production design 1 at the timing of starting the second production. When a command (offset designation command) is received, the second effect is not executed.

  When the second effect is started, the game control microcomputer 560 transmits an effect symbol designating command, and when the effect control microcomputer 100 receives the effect symbol designating command, the second control based on the received effect symbol designating command. In addition to determining whether or not to execute an effect, the type of the second effect is determined when an effect designating command is executed. Therefore, the production control microcomputer 100 does not have to manage the timing of starting the second production. In addition, the effect control command transmitted when starting the second effect is originally an effect control command for specifying the stop symbol of the effect symbol (decoration symbol), so the type of the effect control command is not increased. In addition, when the second effect is started, the game control microcomputer 560 can inform the effect control microcomputer 100 of the timing for starting the second effect.

  FIG. 39 is a flowchart showing the effect control process (step S705) in the main process shown in FIG. In the effect control process, the effect control CPU 101 performs one of steps S800 to S806 according to the value of the effect control process flag. In each process, the following process is executed.

  Fluctuation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800): It is confirmed whether or not a variation pattern command has been received from the game control microcomputer 560. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not the variation pattern command reception flag set in the command analysis process is set. If the change pattern command has been received, the value of the effect control process flag is changed to a value corresponding to the effect symbol change start process (step S801).

  Effect symbol variation start processing (step S801): Control is performed so that the variation of the effect symbol (decoration symbol) is started. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the effect symbol changing process (step S802).

  Production symbol variation processing (step S802): Controls the switching timing of each variation state (variation speed) constituting the variation pattern and monitors the end of the variation time. When the variation time ends, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the effect symbol variation stop process (step S803).

  Effect symbol variation stop processing (step S803): Based on the reception of the effect control command (design determination designation command) for instructing all symbols to stop, the variation of the effect symbol (decoration symbol) is stopped and the display result (stop symbol) Control to derive and display. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the jackpot display process (step S804) or the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800).

  Big hit display process (step S804): After the end of the variation time, control is performed to display a screen for notifying the effect display device 9 of the occurrence of the big hit. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the big hit game processing (step S805).

  Big hit game processing (step S805): Control during big hit game is performed. For example, when a special winning opening opening designation command or a special winning opening open designation command is received, display control of the number of rounds in the effect display device 9 is performed. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the big hit end process (step S806).

  Big hit end processing (step S806): In the effect display device 9, display control is performed to notify the player that the big hit gaming state has ended. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800).

  FIG. 40 is a flowchart showing a variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800) in the effect control process shown in FIG. In the variation pattern command reception waiting process, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the variation pattern command reception flag is set (step S811). If the variation pattern command reception flag is set, the variation pattern command reception flag is reset (step S812). Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the effect symbol variation start process (step S801) (step S813).

  FIG. 41 is a flowchart showing the effect symbol variation start process (step S801) in the effect control process shown in FIG. In the effect symbol variation start process, the effect control CPU 101 reads the variation pattern command from the variation pattern command storage area (the received variation pattern command is stored), and confirms the type of the received variation pattern (step S824). ). If the variation pattern command is not the variation pattern command with the first effect, the process proceeds to step S831.

  When the variation pattern command is a variation pattern command with the first effect, the effect control CPU 101 reads the count value of the counter for generating the first effect type selection random number, and uses the read value as the first value. Random value for selecting effect type. That is, the first effect type selection random number is extracted. Then, the type of the first effect is determined based on the first effect type selection random number value and the received effect symbol designation command (effect symbol 1 designation command, effect symbol 2 designation command or effect symbol 3 designation command). (Step S826). Specifically, in the table shown in FIG. 30 according to the received effect designating command (an example of a command that can specify the display result of the variable display of the identification information), the part of the table that is out of place, the normal big hit or the probability big hit And the character corresponding to the determination value that matches the first effect type selection random value is selected as the type of the first effect.

  Then, the selected type of the first effect is stored in the first effect character buffer 112a in the RAM 112 (step S827). Also, a first effect execution flag is set (step S828). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S831.

  In step S831, the CPU 101 for effect control determines the display result (stop symbol) of the effect symbol (decorative symbol) according to the data stored in the effect symbol designation command storage area (that is, the received display result specifying command). (Step S831). When determining the stop symbol, the effect control CPU 101 clears the contents of the effect symbol designation command storage area (step S832).

  When determining the stop symbol, the effect control CPU 101 extracts a stop symbol determination random number, and uses a stop symbol determination table in which data indicating a combination of effect symbols and a determination value are associated with each other. The stop symbol of the production symbol is determined. That is, the stop symbol is determined as illustrated in FIG. 11 by selecting data indicating a combination of effect symbols corresponding to the determination value that matches the extracted stop symbol determining random value. Whether or not there is a reach is determined by, for example, the received variation pattern command. Further, the effect control CPU 101 stores data indicating the determined effect stop symbol in the effect symbol display result storage area.

  Also, with regard to the production symbol, a stop symbol that recalls a big hit is called a big hit symbol. In addition, a stop symbol that recalls a loss is called a loss symbol.

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 selects a process table corresponding to the variation pattern and the type of the first effect (step S833). Then, the production control CPU 101 performs the production device (the production display device 9 as the production component, the production component as the production component according to the contents of the process data 1 (display control execution data 1, lamp control execution data 1, sound number data 1). Control of various LEDs and the speaker 27 as a production component is executed (step S834). For example, a command is output to the VDP 109 in order to display an image according to the variation pattern on the effect display device 9. In addition, a control signal (lamp control execution data) is output to the lamp driver board 35 in order to perform on / off control of various lamps. In addition, a control signal (sound number data) is output to the sound output board 70 in order to output sound from the speaker 27. Further, the process timer in the process data 1 of the selected process table is started (step S835).

  FIG. 42 is an explanatory diagram of a configuration example of the process table. The process table is a table in which process data referred to when the effect control CPU 101 executes control of the effect device is set. That is, the effect control CPU 101 controls effect devices (effect components) such as the effect display device 9 according to the process data set in the process table. The process data includes data obtained by collecting a plurality of combinations of process timer set values, display control execution data, lamp control execution data, and sound number data. The display control execution data includes data indicating each variation mode constituting the variation mode during the variable display time (variation time) of the variable display of the effect symbol (decoration symbol). Moreover, the data etc. which comprise an effect aspect are described in the process table selected when performing a 1st effect. Specifically, data relating to the change of the display screen of the effect display device 9 is described. The process timer set value is set with a change time in the form of the change. The effect control CPU 101 refers to the process table and performs control to display the effect design in the variation mode set in the display control execution data for the time set in the process timer set value.

  In addition, similar to the control based on the display control execution data, the effect control CPU 101 controls the lighting state of various LEDs based on the lamp control execution data for the time set in the process timer set value, and obtains the sound number data. Output to the audio output board 70.

  The effect control CPU 101 controls the effect device in accordance with the process data in the process table, thereby realizing the change pattern of the effect symbol (decorative symbol), the lighting state of the light emitter and the sound output synchronized therewith. Further, by controlling the effect device according to the process data in the process table, the display state of the first effect on the effect display device 9 and the lighting state and sound output of the light emitter synchronized with the display state are realized.

  The process data shown in FIG. 42 is stored in the ROM 111 of the effect control board 80. The process table is prepared for each combination of each variation pattern and the first effect type. Furthermore, it prepares according to each combination of each variation pattern and the kind of 2nd effect.

  In addition, in the process table used when effect control is executed for a variation pattern with reach effect, the left symbol is stopped when a predetermined time has elapsed from the start of the variation, and the right symbol is stopped when a predetermined time further elapses. Process data indicating that it is to be displayed is set.

  Thereafter, the effect control CPU 101 changes the color of the background portion on the display screen of the effect display device 9 according to the received background designation command (normal background designation command, probability change background designation command or short-time background designation command). Control is performed (step S836). Also, a value corresponding to the variation time specified by the variation pattern command is set in the variation time timer (step S837), and the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value indicating the effect symbol variation process (step S802). (Step S838).

  FIG. 43 is a flowchart showing the effect symbol changing process (step S802) in the effect control process. In the effect symbol changing process, the effect control CPU 101 subtracts 1 from the value of the process timer (step S840) and subtracts 1 from the value of the change time timer (step S841).

  When the first effect execution flag indicating that the first effect is being executed is set, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not an effect symbol designation command has been received (steps S842 and S843). . Whether or not an effect symbol designation command has been received is determined by whether or not a significant value (a non-zero value that is a cleared value) is set in the effect symbol designation command storage area. When the effect designating command has been received, the effect control CPU 101 executes the second effect setting process (step S844).

  In addition, when the process timer times out (step S845), the effect control CPU 101 switches the process data. That is, the process timer setting value set next in the process table is set in the process timer (step S846). Further, the control state for the rendering device is changed based on the display control execution data, lamp control execution data, and sound number data set next (step S847).

  If the variation time timer has timed out (step S848), the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the effect symbol variation stop process (step S803) (step S850). Even if the variable time timer has not timed out, if the confirmation command reception flag indicating that the symbol confirmation designation command has been received is set (step S849), the process proceeds to step S850. Even if the variation time timer has not timed out, if the symbol confirmation designation command is received, the process shifts to control to stop variation.For example, a variation pattern command indicating a long variation time due to noise between substrates is received. Even in such a case, it is possible to end the variation of the effect symbol when the regular variation time has elapsed (when the variation of the special symbol ends).

  In addition, by executing control according to each process data in the process table (control is executed by the processing of steps S840, S845 to S847), the effect control according to the variation pattern and the first effect is realized. In particular, by performing the effect control according to the first effect, for example, the effects illustrated in FIGS. 34 (A) to (F) can be realized. In addition, after the second effect setting process in step S844 is performed, effect control according to the variation pattern and the second effect is realized. In particular, by performing effect control according to the second effect, for example, the effects illustrated in FIGS. 34 (J) to (J) and FIG. 35, or FIGS. 34 (J) to (J) and FIG. The illustrated effects can be realized.

  FIG. 44 is a flowchart showing the second effect setting process in step S844. In the second effect setting process, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the received effect symbol designation command is an effect symbol 1 designation command (offset designation command) (step S910). If it is a design symbol 1 designation command, the process is terminated. If it is not the effect design 1 designation command, the effect control CPU 101 reads the count value of the counter for generating the second effect type selection random number, and sets the read value as the second effect type selection random value. That is, the second effect type selection random number is extracted (step S911). Then, the second effect type selection random number, the first effect type indicated by the data stored in the first effect character buffer 112a, and the received effect symbol designation command (the effect symbol 2 designation command or the effect symbol 3 designation). The type of the second effect is determined based on the command), and data indicating the type of the second effect is set in the second effect character buffer 112b (step S912). Specifically, it is shown in the table shown in FIG. 31A or FIG. 31B according to the received design symbol designation command (an example of a command that can specify the display result of the variable display of the identification information). The table is selected, and the second effect type corresponds to the determination value (determination value corresponding to the row corresponding to the first effect type in FIG. 31) that matches the value of the second effect type selection random number. Select a character.

  Then, the effect control CPU 101 resets the first effect execution flag and sets the second effect execution flag (step S913). Further, a process table corresponding to the variation pattern and the type of the second effect is selected (step S914), and the effector device is selected according to the contents of the process data 1 (display control execution data 1, lamp control execution data 1, sound number data 1). Control is executed (step S915). For example, a command is output to the VDP 109 in order to display an image according to the variation pattern on the effect display device 9. In addition, a control signal (lamp control execution data) is output to the lamp driver board 35 in order to perform on / off control of various lamps. In addition, a control signal (sound number data) is output to the sound output board 70 in order to output sound from the speaker 27. Further, the process timer in the process data 1 of the selected process table is started (step S916).

  FIG. 45 is a flowchart showing the effect symbol variation stop process (step S803) in the effect control process. In the effect symbol variation stop process, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the confirmed command reception flag is set (step S851). If the confirmed command reception flag is set, the confirmed command reception flag is reset. In step S852, control is performed to derive and display the stop symbol in accordance with the data stored in the effect symbol display result storage area (data indicating the stop symbol) (step S853). Also, a decorative symbol variation end flag is set (step S854). Then, the production control CPU 101 confirms whether or not it is determined to be a big hit (step S855). Whether or not it is determined to be a big hit is determined based on, for example, the determined stop symbol whether or not it is determined to be a big hit.

  If it is determined to be a big hit, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the big hit display process (step S804) (step S856).

  If it is determined not to win, the effect control CPU 101 updates the value of the effect control process flag to a value corresponding to the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800) (step S857).

  In this embodiment, the production control microcomputer 100 ends the variation (variable display) of the production symbol (decoration symbol) on the condition that the symbol confirmation designation command has been received (see steps S851 and S853). . However, when the variation time timer based on the received variation pattern command times out, the variation of the effect symbol (decorative symbol) may be controlled without receiving the symbol determination designation command. In this case, the game control microcomputer 560 may not transmit the symbol confirmation designation command for designating the end of variable display.

  FIG. 46 is a flowchart showing the jackpot display process (step S804) in the effect control process. In the jackpot display process, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the jackpot display time timer is set (step S861). When the big hit display time timer is set, the process proceeds to step S862. If the jackpot display time timer is not set, it is checked whether or not a fanfare command reception flag indicating that a jackpot start designation command (fanfare command) has been received is set (step S865). If the fanfare command reception flag is set, the fanfare command reception flag is reset (step S866), a value corresponding to the big hit display time is set in the big hit display time timer (step S867), and the fanfare screen (big hit) Control for displaying the effect display device 9 on the screen for notifying the start of the game is performed (step S868). Specifically, an instruction to display the fanfare screen is given to the VDP 109.

  In addition, when the second effect is executed, the effect control CPU 101 resets the second effect executing flag (steps S869 and S870).

  In step S862, the effect control CPU 101 subtracts 1 from the value of the jackpot display time timer. Then, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the jackpot display time timer is 0, that is, whether or not the jackpot display time has elapsed (step S863). If not, the process ends. When the big hit display time has elapsed, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the big hit game processing (step S805) (step S864).

  FIG. 47 is a flowchart showing the big hit game processing (step S805) in the effect control process. In the process during the big hit game, the production control CPU 101 produces an effect display on the display screen between rounds (screen for notifying the rounds during the big hit game) when the CPU for production control 101 receives the command after the big winning opening is opened. Control to display on the device 9 is performed (steps S880 and S887). If a command for opening a special prize opening is received (step S881), a process table corresponding to the number of rounds is selected (step S888), and the contents of the process data 1 (display control execution data 1, lamp control execution data). 1. Control of the effect device is executed according to the sound number data 1) (step S889). For example, a command is output to the VDP 109 in order to display an image according to the variation pattern on the effect display device 9. In addition, a control signal (lamp control execution data) is output to the lamp driver board 35 in order to perform on / off control of various lamps. In addition, a control signal (sound number data) is output to the sound output board 70 in order to output sound from the speaker 27. Further, the process timer in the process data 1 of the selected process table is started (step S890).

  When the ending command reception flag indicating that the jackpot end designation command (ending command) has been received is set, the ending command reception flag is reset (steps S882 and S891), and the ending screen (end of jackpot game) Is displayed on the effect display device 9 (step S892). Specifically, an instruction for displaying the ending screen is given to the VDP 109. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the jackpot end process (step S806) (step S893).

  In the big hit end process, when the time for notifying the end of the big hit game has elapsed, the effect control CPU 101 updates the value of the effect control process flag to a value corresponding to the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800).

  If the ending command reception flag is not set, the process timer value is decremented by 1 (step S881), and when the process timer times out (step S884), the process data is switched. That is, the process timer setting value set next in the process table is set in the process timer (step S885). Further, the control state for the effect device is changed based on the display control execution data, lamp control execution data, and sound number data set next (step S886).

  Through the processing described above, the first effect is executed when the special symbol and the effect symbol (decoration symbol) are changed, and the second effect is executed after the execution of the first effect is completed. can do. In this embodiment, the first effect is executed when the special symbol and the effect symbol (decoration symbol) are changed, and then the second effect related to the first effect is executed. There is a change in the production mode of the notification effect of the transition to the game, and the entertainment of the game can be further enhanced. In addition, the player's interest in the probabilistic state can be maintained for a long period of time, and the interest of the game can be further enhanced.

  Further, the selection ratio of the first effect is different depending on whether the display result of variable display is decided to be a big hit symbol or not decided to be a big hit symbol (see FIG. 30). In addition to the level of promotion expectation (elevation reliability), the type of the first effect can be made to correspond to the level of expectation (hit reliability) at which the jackpot symbol is derived and displayed on the effect display device 9.

Embodiment 2. FIG.
In the first embodiment, the first effect and the second effect are executed together when the special symbol and the effect symbol (decorative symbol) are changed. However, the execution time and the second effect of the first effect are executed. The execution time of may be set to another time.

  In the second embodiment (Embodiment 2), both the first effect and the second effect are executed during the big hit game.

  48 to 51 are explanatory diagrams showing specific examples of the first effect and the second effect in this embodiment. In the example shown in FIG. 48, after the jackpot display (fanfare display) is made on the display screen of the effect display device 9 after the effect symbol (decoration symbol) changes (see FIGS. 48A and 48B), the jackpot game A first effect using the character 9p (pig) is executed (see FIGS. 48C to 48E). Then, when a display effect is made such that the character P falls (see FIG. 48F), the second effect is executed during the big hit game (see FIGS. 48G to 48J). In FIG. 48, the display state in the effect display device 9 transitions sequentially from the state shown in (A) to the state shown in (J). The same applies to FIGS. 49 to 51.

  In the example shown in FIG. 48 and the example shown in FIG. 49 subsequent thereto, the second effect using the character 9b is executed (see FIGS. 48 (H), (I) and FIG. 49 (M)). In the second effect, the character used in the first effect (character 9p in the examples shown in FIGS. 48 and 49) is used.

  49 (K) to 49 (P) show the second performance in the case of successful promotion. That is, after the character 9b (Western chef) shows a state in which another character (the main character 9e) has completed cooking using the character 9p as an ingredient (see FIG. 48J), the character 9b is displayed. However, a state in which a dish using the character 9p as an ingredient is shown (see FIG. 49K), and the tasting person 9g tastes the dish that the hero character 9e has completed and the dish that the character 9b has completed. (See FIG. 48 (L)), the taster 9g gives a high score to the hero character 9e, and the hero character 9e wins and is successfully promoted (see FIGS. 49 (M) to (P)). ).

  50 (K) to (P) show the effects following the effects in the state shown in FIG. 48 (J), and show the second effects in the case of promotion failure. That is, after the hero character 9e has completed the cooking using the character 9p as an ingredient (see FIG. 48J). In addition, a state in which the character 9b has completed cooking using the character 9p as an ingredient is shown (see FIG. 50K), and the tasting person 9g has completed cooking and the character 9b in which the main character 9e has been completed. Tastes are prepared (see FIG. 50 (L)), and the taster 9g gives a high score to the character 9b, and the character 9b wins and the promotion fails (FIG. 50 (M) to (P)). )reference). In this embodiment, when the big hit game is over, the gaming state is controlled to the short-time state, so a display effect as shown in FIG. 50 (P) is performed.

  In the case of a promotion failure, only the first effect may be executed during the big hit game. In FIG. 51, after the big hit display (fanfare display) is made on the display screen of the production display device 9 after the change of the production design (decoration design) (see FIGS. 51A and 51B), during the big hit game The example in which the 1st production using character 9p (pig) is performed is shown (refer to Drawing 51 (C)-(E)). Then, a display effect is made as if the character 9p did not fall down (see FIG. 51 (F)), and the display is shifted as shown in FIG. 37 (E). In this case, even if the first effect ends, the second effect is not executed (see FIGS. 51G to 51H).

  48 to 50 exemplify effects using the character 9p and the character 9b, other combinations of characters (a combination of the characters 9p and 9a, 9c, and characters 9q, 9r, 9s). All of the combinations of any of the characters 9a, 9b, and 9c) are also prepared.

  FIG. 52 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the variation pattern (variation time) of the special symbol and the effect symbol (decoration symbol) used in this embodiment. Unlike the variation patterns in the first embodiment shown in FIG. 12, in this embodiment, the variation patterns # 1 to # 2 do not include the first effect or the second effect.

  FIG. 53 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the contents of the effect control command transmitted by the game control microcomputer 560 in this embodiment. The difference from the effect control command in the first embodiment shown in FIG. 13 is that, as a big hit start specifying command (fanfare command), a big hit start 1 specifying command for specifying execution of the first effect and the first There is a jackpot start 2 designation command for designating that the production is not executed.

  That is, the game control microcomputer 560 transmits an A001 (H) effect control command (a jackpot start 1 designation command) as the fanfare command when it is determined to perform the first effect. If it has not been decided to perform, an effect control command A002 (H) (a big hit start 2 designation command) is transmitted.

  FIG. 54 is a flowchart showing a variation pattern setting process executed by the CPU 56 in the game control microcomputer 560 in this embodiment. In this embodiment, since the promotion effect (the first effect and the second effect) is not executed during the change of the effect symbol (decoration symbol), the CPU 56 executes step S101, which was executed in the first embodiment. The process of S102 is not executed. Other processes are the same as those in the first embodiment.

  The CPU 56 reads the value of the variation pattern determination random number from the random number buffer area in the process of step S106, and determines the variation pattern to be used based on the value of the variation pattern determination random number. When it is not set, when it is not determined to reach, it is determined as the variation pattern # 3 or the variation pattern # 4 illustrated in FIG. When it is decided to reach, the fluctuation pattern is determined using the deviation fluctuation pattern table. The fluctuation pattern table at the time of loss is stored in the ROM 54, and a fluctuation pattern determination value corresponding to the fluctuation pattern # 1 or the fluctuation pattern # 2 is set in the fluctuation pattern table at the time of loss. The CPU 56 determines a variation pattern corresponding to the variation pattern determination value that matches the variation pattern determination random number. When the big hit flag is set, the fluctuation pattern is determined using the big hit hour fluctuation pattern table. The big hit time fluctuation pattern table is stored in the ROM 54, and the big hit time fluctuation pattern table includes a fluctuation pattern judgment value corresponding to fluctuation pattern # 1 or fluctuation pattern # 2 (the number of each judgment value is a judgment in the loss fluctuation pattern table). Is different from the number of values). The CPU 56 determines a variation pattern corresponding to the variation pattern determination value that matches the variation pattern determination random number.

  In this embodiment, since the first effect and the second effect are not executed during the change of the symbol, the processes of steps S124 and S125 are not executed in the special symbol changing process (see FIG. 22).

  FIG. 55 is a flowchart showing special symbol stop processing executed by CPU 56 in game control microcomputer 560 in this embodiment. In this embodiment, if the jackpot flag is set (step S132, the CPU 56 resets the probability variation flag (step S133), then reads the value of the effect execution determination random number from the random number buffer area ( In step S134A, it is determined whether or not to execute the first effect based on the value of the random number for determining the execution of execution (step S134B) Specifically, the value of the random number for determining the execution of execution is shown in FIG. If it coincides with one of the execution determination values, it is determined to execute the first effect, and data indicating whether or not to execute the first effect is stored in the RAM 55.

  Next, when it is decided to execute the first effect as a fanfare command, a big hit start 1 designation command is transmitted to the microcomputer 100 for effect control, and when it is decided not to execute the first effect. Control to transmit the big hit start 2 designation command to the production control microcomputer 100 is performed (step S134C). Moreover, control which transmits an effect design designation | designated command to the microcomputer 100 for effect control is performed (step S135A), and the 1st effect flag is set (step S135B). The type of effect symbol designation command transmitted in the process of step S135A (effect symbol 1 designation command (outgoing designation command), effect symbol 2 designation command (normal jackpot designation command) or effect symbol 3 designation command (probability variation jackpot designation command) Is the same as the type of effect designating command transmitted at the start of fluctuation, and the other processing is the same as the processing in the first embodiment (see FIG. 23).

  FIG. 56 is a flowchart showing the big hit game processing executed by the CPU 56 in the game control microcomputer 560 in this embodiment. In the big hit game process, the CPU 56 determines whether or not the round time has elapsed (step S190). The round time is an allowable time for one round (for example, 29 seconds). For example, a value corresponding to the allowable time is set in the timer formed in the RAM 55 in the pre-opening process for the big prize opening (step S305), and is set to -1 in the big hit game process (not shown in FIG. 56). When the value becomes 0, it is determined that the round time has elapsed. If the round time has elapsed, the process proceeds to step S193.

  If the round time has not elapsed, a detection signal indicating that the game ball has been turned on (the game ball has been detected) is input from the count switch 23 that detects the winning of the game ball to the grand prize opening. 1 is added to the count value of the large winning opening winning number counter (step S191). When the count value of the big prize opening winning number counter reaches the winning allowable number for one round (for example, 10), the process proceeds to step S193. If the count value has not reached the allowable number of winnings for one round, the process is terminated. It should be noted that the count value of the big prize opening number counter is initialized to 0 in the pre-opening process for the big prize opening (step S305), for example.

  In step S193, the CPU 56 checks whether or not it was the final round. If it is the final round, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the pre-hit end pre-processing (step S307) (step S196). In order to confirm whether or not it is the final round, for example, in the big winning opening opening pre-processing (step S305), the value of the number-of-opening counter formed in the RAM 55 is incremented by 1 when shifting to the big hit game processing. .

  If it is not the final round, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the round is predetermined as a round (for example, the fourth round) for starting the second effect (step S194). If it is the round which starts the 2nd production, control which transmits a production design designation command to microcomputer 100 for production control is performed (Step S195). Thereafter, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the pre-opening process for the special winning opening (step S305) (step S196). The effect designating command transmitted in the process of step S195 is the effect designating command stored in the RAM 55 in the process of step S135A.

  When the second effect is started, the game control microcomputer 560 transmits an effect symbol designating command, and when the effect control microcomputer 100 receives the effect symbol designating command, the second control based on the received effect symbol designating command. In addition to determining whether or not to execute an effect, the type of the second effect is determined when an effect designating command is executed. Therefore, the production control microcomputer 100 does not have to manage the timing of starting the second production. In addition, the effect control command transmitted when starting the second effect is originally an effect control command for specifying the stop symbol of the effect symbol (decoration symbol), so the type of the effect control command is not increased. In addition, when the second effect is started, the game control microcomputer 560 can inform the effect control microcomputer 100 of the timing for starting the second effect.

  In this embodiment, the game control microcomputer 560 also transmits the effect symbol designation command again at the start timing of the second effect even when the effect symbol 1 designation command (offset designation command) is transmitted at the start of variation. However, since the second effect is not executed when an effect symbol 1 designation command (outgoing designation command) is transmitted at the start of variation, the second effect is performed when an effect symbol 1 designation command (outage designation command) is transmitted at the start of variation. You may comprise so that an effect symbol designation | designated command may not be transmitted in the timing of the start of an effect.

  Further, in this embodiment, when the predetermined round during the big hit game ends, the production symbol designation command is transmitted to the production control microcomputer 100, but when the predetermined round during the big hit game starts, The CPU 56 may perform control to transmit an effect designating command to the effect control microcomputer 100. Further, the CPU 56 may perform control to transmit an effect designating command to the effect control microcomputer 100 during an interval period between predetermined rounds or during a predetermined round.

  Next, the flow of processing of the first effect and the second effect by the game control microcomputer 560 and the effect control microcomputer 100 will be described. As shown in FIG. 57, the game control microcomputer 560 as the game control means transmits a fanfare command and an effect symbol designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 as the effect control means at the end of the change ( When the execution control first microcomputer is designated by the fanfare command, the production control microcomputer 100 designates the received production design designation command (designation of the production design 2 in this case) (see steps S134C and S135 in FIG. 55). The type of the first effect is determined based on the command (ordinary jackpot designation command) or the production symbol 3 designation command (probability variation jackpot designation command)). Specifically, the table corresponding to the “ordinary big hit” or the table corresponding to “probability big hit”, which is a table corresponding to the effect designating command, is selected from the three tables shown in FIG. The count value for generating the type selection random number is extracted as the first production type selection random number value, and the first production type corresponds to the determination value that matches the first production type selection random number value. Select a character. Further, data indicating the type of the first effect is set in the first effect character buffer 112a in the RAM 112.

  During the jackpot game, specifically, in a predetermined round during the jackpot game, the game control microcomputer 560 sends a stage design designation command (stage design symbol 2 designation command (normal jackpot designation command) to the stage control microcomputer 100. ) Or a design symbol 3 designation command (probability variation jackpot designation command)) (see steps S194 and S195 in FIG. 56). When receiving the effect designating command, the effect control microcomputer 100 determines the type of the second effect based on the received effect designating command and the data indicating the type of the first effect stored in the RAM 112. Specifically, in order to select the table shown in FIG. 31A or the table shown in FIG. 31B in accordance with the received effect designating command, and generate a second effect type selection random number. Is extracted as a second effect type selection random number value, and a character corresponding to a determination value that matches the second effect type selection random number value is selected as the second effect type selection random number value. Since the character used in the first effect is used in the second effect, the combination of the type of the first effect and the type of the second effect is determined by determining the type of the second effect. Become.

  Hereinafter, the control of the 1st effect and the 2nd effect which the microcomputer 100 for effect control in this embodiment performs is demonstrated.

  FIG. 58 is a flowchart showing the effect symbol variation start process (step S801) in the effect symbol process (see FIG. 39) executed by the effect control CPU 101 in the effect control microcomputer 100.

  In this embodiment, in the effect symbol variation start process, the effect control CPU 101 reads the variation pattern command from the variation pattern command in which the variation pattern command received from the game control microcomputer 560 is stored (step S831A). And the same process as the process after step S831 in 1st Embodiment shown by FIG. 41 is performed. In this embodiment, the processes in steps S824 to S828 shown in FIG. 41 are not executed. In the first embodiment, the process table corresponding to the variation pattern and the type of the first effect is selected in step S833. However, in this embodiment, the process table corresponding to the variation pattern is selected. (Step S833A). That is, the first effect is not considered in the process of step S833A.

  Moreover, in this embodiment, the processing in steps S842 to S844 shown in FIG. 43 is not executed in the effect symbol variation processing.

  FIG. 59 is a flowchart showing the jackpot display process (step S804) in the effect symbol process (see FIG. 39) executed by the effect control CPU 101 in the effect control microcomputer 100.

  In this embodiment, in the jackpot display process, the effect control CPU 101 is designated to execute the first effect by the fanfare command (when the jackpot start 2 designation command (see FIG. 53) is received). (Step S869A), the count value of the counter for generating the first effect type selection random number is read, and the read value is set as the first effect type selection random number value. That is, the first effect type selection random number is extracted (step S869B). Then, the type of the first effect is determined based on the first effect type selection random number value and the received effect symbol designation command (in this case, the effect symbol 2 designation command or the effect symbol 3 designation command) ( Step S871). Specifically, the normal big hit or the probable big hit portion is selected from the table shown in FIG. 30 in accordance with the received design symbol designation command (an example of a command that can specify the display result of the variable display of identification information). The character corresponding to the determination value that matches the first effect type selection random number is selected as the type of the first effect.

  Then, the selected type of the first effect is stored in the first effect character buffer 112a in the RAM 112 (step S872). Further, the first effect execution flag is set (step S873). Other processes are the same as those in the first embodiment (see FIG. 46).

  FIG. 60 is a flowchart showing the big hit game processing (step S805) in the effect control process executed by the effect control CPU 101 in the effect control microcomputer 100. In this embodiment, in the big hit game process, when the first effect execution flag indicating that the first effect is being executed is set (step S888A), the effect control CPU 101 sets the game control. When an effect designating command is received from the microcomputer 100, the second effect selection process (see FIG. 61) is executed (steps S888B and S888C).

  Further, in the first embodiment, when a command for opening a big prize opening is received, a process table corresponding to only the number of rounds is selected (see step S888 in FIG. 47). During execution of one effect, a process table corresponding to the number of rounds and the type of first effect is selected, and during execution of the second effect, a process table according to the number of rounds and the type of second effect is selected. (Step S888D). Other processes are the same as those in the first embodiment (see FIG. 47).

  Further, by performing control according to each process data in the process table (execution of control by the processing of steps S883 to S886), effect control according to the first effect and the second effect is realized. For example, the first effect illustrated in FIGS. 48C to 48F, the second effect illustrated in FIGS. 48G to 48J and FIG. 49, and FIGS. 48G to 48J and FIG. The second effect illustrated in FIG. 50 and the effect shown in FIG. 51 can be realized.

  FIG. 61 is a flowchart showing the second effect selection process in step S888C. In the second effect setting process, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the received effect symbol designation command is an effect symbol 1 designation command (offset designation command) (step S910). If it is a design symbol 1 designation command, the process is terminated. If it is not the effect design 1 designation command, the effect control CPU 101 reads the count value of the counter for generating the second effect type selection random number, and sets the read value as the second effect type selection random value. That is, the second effect type selection random number is extracted (step S911). Then, the second effect type selection random number, the first effect type indicated by the data stored in the first effect character buffer 112a, and the received effect symbol designation command (the effect symbol 2 designation command or the effect symbol 3 designation). The type of the second effect is determined based on the command), and data indicating the type of the second effect is set in the second effect character buffer 112b (step S912). Specifically, it is shown in the table shown in FIG. 31A or FIG. 31B according to the received design symbol designation command (an example of a command that can specify the display result of the variable display of the identification information). The table is selected, and the second effect type corresponds to the determination value (determination value corresponding to the row corresponding to the first effect type in FIG. 31) that matches the value of the second effect type selection random number. Select a character.

  Then, the effect control CPU 101 resets the first effect execution flag and sets the second effect execution flag (step S913). Also, a process table corresponding to the number of rounds being executed and the type of the second effect is selected (step S914A), and according to the contents of process data 1 (display control execution data 1, lamp control execution data 1, sound number data 1). Control of the effect device is executed (step S915). For example, in order to display an image corresponding to the number of rounds on the effect display device 9, a command is output to the VDP 109. In addition, a control signal (lamp control execution data) is output to the lamp driver board 35 in order to perform on / off control of various lamps. In addition, a control signal (sound number data) is output to the sound output board 70 in order to output sound from the speaker 27. Further, the process timer in the process data 1 of the selected process table is started (step S916).

  Through the processing as described above, the control for executing the first effect during the big hit game and executing the second effect after the first effect is completed is realized. In this embodiment, since the first effect and the second effect are executed during the big hit game, the effect mode of the notification effect indicating the transition to the probable change state is changed, and the interest of the game can be further enhanced. In addition, it is possible to maintain the player's interest regarding the special game state such as the probable change state during the big hit game state, and to enhance the interest of the game.

Embodiment 3 FIG.
In the first embodiment, the first effect and the second effect are executed together when the special symbol and the effect symbol (decoration symbol) are changed. In the second embodiment, the big hit game is being played. Both the first effect and the second effect are executed, but in the third embodiment (Embodiment 3), both the first effect and the second effect are executed after the big hit game is finished.

  62 to 66 are explanatory diagrams showing specific examples of the first effect and the second effect in this embodiment. In the example shown in FIG. 62, on the display screen of the effect display device 9, the jackpot display (fanfare display) was made after the effect symbol (decoration symbol) changed, and the jackpot end (ending display) was made after the jackpot game was executed. After that (see FIGS. 62A, 62B, C, and D), the first effect using the character 9p (pig) is executed (see FIGS. 62E to 62G). ). Then, when the display effect is made such that the character 9p falls down by the hammer 9f by the main character 9e (see FIG. 62 (H)), the second effect is executed (see FIGS. 62 (I) and (J)). In FIG. 62, the display state on the effect display device 9 transitions sequentially from the state shown in (A) to the state shown in (J). The same applies to FIGS. 63 to 66.

  In the example shown in FIG. 62 and the subsequent example shown in FIG. 63, the second effect using the character 9b (Western cook) is executed (see FIG. 62 (J) and FIG. 63 (K)). In the second effect, the character used in the first effect (character 9p in the examples shown in FIGS. 62 and 63) is used.

  63 (K) to (Q) show the second effect in the case of successful promotion. That is, after another character (the main character 9e) different from the character 9b has shown the state where the cooking using the character 9p as a food is completed (see FIG. 63 (L)), the character 9b changes the character 9p. A state in which the cooking using the ingredients is completed is shown (see FIG. 63 (M)), and the tasting person 9g tastes the cooking completed by 9p and the cooking completed by the character 9b (FIG. 63 (N)). As shown in FIG. 63 (O) to (Q), the taster 9g gives a high score to the hero character 9e, and the hero character 9e wins and is promoted successfully.

  FIGS. 64 (K) to (P) show the effects following the effects in the state shown in FIG. 62 (J), and show the second effects in the case of promotion failure. That is, after the hero character 9e has shown the state where the cooking using the character 9p as an ingredient is completed (see FIG. 64L). In addition, a state where the character 9b has completed cooking using the character 9p as an ingredient is shown (see FIG. 64 (M)), and the tasting person 9g has completed the cooking that the main character 9e has completed and the character 9b. The tasting of the food (see FIG. 64 (N)), the taster 9g gives the character 9b a high score, and the character 9b wins and the promotion failure is shown (FIG. 64 (O) to (P)). )reference). In addition, FIG. 64 also shows a state in which the effect design (decoration design) starts to change after the promotion failure (see FIG. 64 (Q)).

  As shown in FIGS. 63 and 64, the content of the effect of the second effect changes as the number of remaining time reductions (the number of times variable display can be performed in the time reduction state) decreases, and when the remaining number of time reductions becomes extremely small (in this example, 10 63), as shown in FIG. 63 (O) and FIG. 64 (O), the character A to C (character B (9b) in this example) and the protagonist character 9e are reached, and the remaining time is short. When the number of times becomes 0, a notification screen indicating success of promotion or failure of promotion is displayed on the effect display device 9.

  In this embodiment, since the stop symbols of the production symbols (decoration symbols) are not divided between when the probability variation jackpot is determined and when the normal jackpot is determined, the player can perform the second performance. Until it is finished, it cannot be determined whether it was a probable big hit or a normal big hit. In other words, the player's sense of expectation for the probable big hit can be maintained until the second performance is completed.

  In order to make such an effect more effective, that is, to further emphasize that it is unknown whether it was a promiscuous big hit or a normal big hit, the characters A to C are used during the second stage. An effect different from the effect to be used may be performed.

  For example, as shown in the explanatory diagram of FIG. 65, another character (the main character 9e) different from the characters A to C is displayed (see FIG. 65C, etc.), and the character used in the first effect is obtained again. (See FIGS. 65 (F) to 65 (H)), it is emphasized that it is unknown whether it was a probable big hit or a normal big hit.

  Further, in this embodiment, the first effect and the second effect are produced over a predetermined number of times (the number of times may be variable) after the jackpot game ends, over a variation of the effect symbol (decorative symbol). Is executed, but the next jackpot may occur before the predetermined number of changes are completed. In that case, the jackpot effect is executed with priority over the first effect or the second effect. In FIG. 66, for example, in the case where the first effect and the second effect are to be executed over the variation of the effect symbol (decoration symbol) 60 times after the end of the big hit game, there are 35 variations. An example is shown when a big hit occurs in the remaining state. In that case, the first effect is started again after the end of the big hit game (see FIGS. 66N to 66R).

  FIG. 67 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the contents of the effect control command transmitted by the game control microcomputer 560 in this embodiment. The difference from the effect control command in the first embodiment shown in FIG. 13 is that, as a jackpot end specifying command (ending command), a jackpot end 1 specifying command for specifying execution of the first effect, and a first There is a jackpot end 2 designation command for designating that the production is not executed.

  That is, when it is determined to perform the first effect as the ending command, the game control microcomputer 560 transmits an effect control command (a jackpot end 1 designation command) of A301 (H) and the first effect. If it has not been decided to perform, an effect control command of A302 (H) (a jackpot end 2 designation command) is transmitted.

  Note that the variation pattern (variation time) of the special symbol and the effect symbol (decoration symbol) used in this embodiment is the same as that in the second embodiment (see FIG. 52).

  FIG. 68 is a flowchart showing a jackpot end process (step S307) in the special symbol process executed by the CPU 56 in the game control microcomputer 560 in this embodiment. In this embodiment, when transmitting the ending command, the CPU 56 reads the value of the effect execution determination random number from the random number buffer area (step S174A), and executes the first effect based on the value of the effect execution determination random number. It is determined whether or not to perform (step S174B). Specifically, when the value of the random number for effect execution determination matches one of the effect execution determination values shown in FIG. 9, it is determined to execute the first effect. Then, data indicating whether or not to execute the first effect is stored in the RAM 55.

  Next, when it is decided to execute the first effect as an ending command, a jackpot end 1 designation command is transmitted to the microcomputer 100 for effect control, and when it is decided not to execute the first effect. Control to transmit the big hit end 2 designation command to the production control microcomputer 100 is performed (step S174C). Moreover, control which transmits an effect design designation | designated command to the microcomputer 100 for effect control is performed (step S174D). It should be noted that the type of effect symbol designation command (effect symbol 1 designation command (outgoing designation command), effect symbol 2 designation command (ordinary jackpot designation command) or effect symbol 3 designation command (probability variable jackpot designation command) transmitted in the process of step S174D) ) Is the same as the type of effect designating command transmitted at the start of fluctuation, and the other processing is the same as the processing in the first embodiment (see FIG. 24).

  Next, the flow of processing of the first effect and the second effect by the game control microcomputer 560 and the effect control microcomputer 100 will be described. As shown in FIG. 69, the game control microcomputer 560 as the game control means transmits an ending command and an effect symbol designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 as the effect control means at the end of the big hit game. (See steps S174C and S174D in FIG. 68), when the production control microcomputer 100 is designated to execute the first production by the ending command, the received production design designation command (in this case, the production design) The type of the first effect is determined based on 2 designation command (normal jackpot designation command) or effect design 3 designation command (probability variation jackpot designation command). Specifically, the table corresponding to the “ordinary big hit” or the table corresponding to “probability big hit”, which is a table corresponding to the effect designating command, is selected from the three tables shown in FIG. The count value for generating the type selection random number is extracted as the first production type selection random number value, and the first production type corresponds to the determination value that matches the first production type selection random number value. Select a character. Further, data indicating the type of the first effect is set in the first effect character buffer 112a in the RAM 112.

  In addition, at the start of the second effect after the end of the jackpot game, the effect control microcomputer 100 receives the received effect symbol designation command (effect symbol 2 designation command (normal jackpot designation command) or effect symbol 3 designation). The type of the second effect is determined based on the command (probability change big hit designation command)) and data indicating the type of the first effect stored in the RAM 112. Specifically, in order to select the table shown in FIG. 31A or the table shown in FIG. 31B in accordance with the received effect designating command, and generate a second effect type selection random number. Is extracted as a second effect type selection random number value, and a character corresponding to a determination value that matches the second effect type selection random number value is selected as the second effect type selection random number value. Since the character used in the first effect is used in the second effect, the combination of the type of the first effect and the type of the second effect is determined by determining the type of the second effect. Become.

  In this embodiment, the production control microcomputer 100 uniquely determines the start timing of the second production. However, as in the case of the first embodiment and the second embodiment, At the start timing of the two effects, the game control microcomputer 560 may transmit an effect symbol designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100.

  Hereinafter, the control of the 1st effect and the 2nd effect which the microcomputer 100 for effect control in this embodiment performs is demonstrated. In the following description, the first effect and the second effect are executed while the effect symbol (decoration symbol) after the big hit game ends, but when it is not changing, or when it is changing and not changing You may make it perform a 2nd production in both.

  FIG. 70 is a flowchart showing an effect symbol variation start process (step S801) in the effect control process executed by the effect control microcomputer 100 according to this embodiment. In this embodiment, the production control CPU 101 executes the second production setting process shown in FIG. 44 at the second production start timing (see FIG. 69) (steps S833B and S833D).

  When selecting the process table, the effect control CPU 101 selects a process table corresponding to the variation pattern and the type of the first effect or the type of the second effect (step S833E). That is, when the first effect execution flag is set, a process table corresponding to the change pattern and the first effect is selected, and when the second effect execution flag is set, the change pattern And a process table corresponding to the second effect is selected. If neither the first effect execution flag nor the second effect execution flag is set, the first effect and the second effect are not considered. That is, a process table corresponding to the variation pattern is selected. Further, the effect control CPU 101 resets the second effect execution flag, for example, at the end of the second effect.

  In this embodiment, on the condition that the second effect is not being performed, that is, when the second effect execution flag is not set, the background color on the display screen of the effect display device 9 is set as the background designation command storage area. Is set to the color corresponding to the background designation command stored in (the color corresponding to the gaming state) (steps S835D and S836). Other processes are the same as those in the first embodiment and the second embodiment.

  Note that the background color is not changed when the second effect execution flag is set. This is because the player is notified whether the background color has been changed or has changed to the probability change state. This is because the effect of the promotion effect, which is an effect for notifying whether or not to shift, will fade.

  In addition, in the process of step S833E, the type of the first effect and the type of the second effect are also targeted in order to realize the first effect and the second effect that are executed after the end of the big hit game. In other words, in the effect symbol variation processing (see FIG. 43) executed as in the case of the first embodiment, effect control is executed according to the process data in the process table as in the case of the first embodiment. However, when the first effect is being executed, by using a process table corresponding to the type of the first effect, during the change of the effect symbol (decoration symbol) after the big hit game, FIG. The first effects as exemplified in E) to (H) are executed. In addition, when the second effect is being executed, the process table corresponding to the type of the second effect is used, so that during the change of the effect symbol (decorative symbol), FIGS. 62 (I) to (J). The second effect as illustrated in FIGS. 63 to 66 is executed. In this embodiment, the second effect is executed over a plurality of variations of the effect symbol (decoration symbol). Further, in this embodiment, the processing in steps S842 to S844 is not executed in the effect symbol changing process (see FIG. 43).

  Further, when the first effect and the second effect are executed when not changing, or both when changing and not changing, for example, the game control microcomputer 560 is changed to a change pattern in the effect control process. In the command reception waiting process, the process of steps S831A to S835 may be executed to select the process table, and the presentation control may be executed according to the process data in the process table. For example, when the first effect and the second effect are executed when not changing, the process of step S833A executed in the change pattern command reception waiting process does not take the change pattern into consideration and performs the first effect. The process table is selected based on only the type or the type of the second effect.

  FIG. 71 is a flowchart showing a jackpot end process (step S806) in the effect control process executed by the effect control CPU 101 in the effect control microcomputer 100 according to this embodiment. In the jackpot end process, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the jackpot end effect timer is set (step S930). When the big hit end effect timer is set, the process proceeds to step S932.

  If the jackpot end effect timer is not set, a value corresponding to the jackpot end display time is set in the jackpot end effect timer (step S931).

  In step S932, the value of the jackpot end effect timer is decremented by 1. If the jackpot end effect timer has not timed out, the process ends (step S933). If the jackpot end effect timer has timed out, it is confirmed whether or not a command with the first effect is received as a jackpot end designation command (ending command) (step S934). If an ending command without first effect (a big hit end 2 designation command) has been received, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800) (step S939).

  Then, if the ending command with the first effect (a jackpot end 1 designation command) has been received, the effect control CPU 101 reads the count value of the counter for generating the first effect type selection random number, and the read value Is a random number for selecting the first effect type. That is, the first effect type selection random number is extracted (step S935). Then, the type of the first effect is determined based on the first effect type selection random number value and the received effect symbol designation command (in this case, the effect symbol 2 designation command or the effect symbol 3 designation command) ( Step S936). Specifically, the normal big hit or the probable big hit portion is selected from the table shown in FIG. 30 in accordance with the received design symbol designation command (an example of a command that can specify the display result of the variable display of identification information). The character corresponding to the determination value that matches the first effect type selection random number is selected as the type of the first effect.

  Then, the selected type of the first effect is stored in the first effect character buffer 112a in the RAM 112 (step S937). Further, the first effect execution flag is set (step S938). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S939.

  In this embodiment, at the start of variable display of the next effect symbol (decoration symbol), the first effect is generated using data indicating the type of the first effect stored in the first effect character buffer 112a. The process is started (see steps S833E, S834, and S835 in FIG. 70).

  By the process as described above, the control for executing the first effect after the end of the big hit game and executing the second effect after the end of the first effect is realized. In this embodiment, since the first effect and the second effect are executed for a predetermined period after the big hit game, the player's interest regarding the special game state such as the probability change state is maintained for a long period of time, and the game is interesting. Can be further enhanced.

Embodiment 4 FIG.
In each of the embodiments described above, the types of the first effect and the second effect are determined based on the effect designating command transmitted by the game control microcomputer 560. The type of the first effect and the second effect may be determined based on the command.

  In the fourth embodiment (Embodiment 4), the types of the first effect and the second effect are determined based on the background designation command transmitted by the game control microcomputer 560. Here, an embodiment as a modification of the third embodiment will be described.

  FIG. 72 is a flowchart showing a jackpot end process (step S806) in the effect control process executed by the effect control CPU 101 in the effect control microcomputer 100 in this embodiment. In this embodiment, the effect control CPU 101 is based on the first effect type selection random number value and the received background designation command (an example of a command that can specify the display result of variable display of identification information). The type of one effect is determined (step S936A). Specifically, the table corresponding to the “normal jackpot” or the table corresponding to “probability jackpot”, which is a table corresponding to the received background designation command, is selected, and the determination value coincides with the first effect type selection random value. Is selected as the type of the first effect (see FIG. 30).

  The effect control CPU 101 determines whether the received background designation command is a normal background designation command, a short-time background designation command, or a sure change background designation command. The determination is based on the data stored in the background designation command storage area to be stored. If the received background designation command is a probability change background designation command, the table corresponding to “probability big hit” is selected, and if it is another background designation command, the table corresponding to “normal big hit” is selected. Select. Other processes are the same as those in the third embodiment. As shown in FIG. 13, the background designation command (normal background designation command, short-time background designation command, and probability change background designation command) is a command that can specify whether or not the gaming state is the probability variation state. . When the game control microcomputer 560 has determined in advance that the jackpot game will be a jackpot game, the game state is shifted from the normal state to the jackpot state after the jackpot game state ends. Then, in the subsequent probability change state, a probability change background designation command (see FIG. 13) is transmitted. Therefore, the background designation command is an effect control command that can specify that the game control microcomputer 560 has decided in advance that it will be a probable big hit.

  In this embodiment, the effect symbol variation start process is executed in the same manner as in the third embodiment (see FIG. 70), but in the second effect setting process in step S833D, the flowchart of FIG. The processing shown is executed.

  In the third embodiment, the effect control CPU 101 executes the second effect setting process shown in FIG. 44, and is therefore stored in the second effect type selection random number and the first effect character buffer 112a. The type of the second effect is determined based on the type of the first effect indicated by the existing data and the received effect designating command (see step S912 in FIG. 44). In this embodiment, the second effect type selection random number, the first effect type indicated by the data stored in the first effect character buffer 112a, and the received background designation command are used for the second effect. The type is determined (step S912A). Specifically, the table shown in FIG. 31A or the table shown in FIG. 31B is selected according to the received background designation command, and the second effect type is selected as the second effect type. The character corresponding to the determination value (the determination value corresponding to the line corresponding to the type of the first effect in FIG. 31) matching the value of the random number for use is selected.

  The effect control CPU 101 selects the table shown in FIG. 31B when the received background designation command is a sure change background designation command, and when it is another background designation command. The table shown in FIG. 31A is selected. Other processes are the same as those in the third embodiment.

  In this embodiment, the type of the first effect and the second effect is determined based on the background designation command, but either one is determined based on the background designation command and the other is controlled by another effect control command (for example, , A design symbol designation command) may be determined.

  In this embodiment, the background designating command is used in place of the effect design control command in the third embodiment, that is, in the form of executing the first effect and the second effect after the end of the big hit game. In the first or second embodiment, a background designation command may be used instead of the effect symbol control command.

  Even in this case, instead of determining the type of the first effect and the second effect based on the background designation command, either one is determined based on the background designation command, and the other is controlled by another effect control command (for example, It may be determined on the basis of a design symbol designation command). For example, the first effect is determined based on the effect designating command, and the type of the second effect is determined based on the background specifying command.

  Further, in the process of step S107 shown in FIG. 20, a background designation command of a type corresponding to the gaming state at the time of transmitting the background designation command is transmitted. A corresponding background designation command may be transmitted. That is, when it is determined that the probability change big hit is determined in the processing of step S62 shown in FIG. 19, a probability change background designation command is transmitted. Send a background specification command. In the case of such a configuration, the effect control CPU 101 can make a determination reflecting the determination result of the prior determination means based on the background designation command.

  In each of the above-described embodiments, the probability variation state is taken as an example of the special gaming state in which the transition to the big hit gaming state is easier than in the normal state. However, the special gaming state may be changed to another gaming state. For example, when the variable display time is shortened, the number of variable displays per predetermined time increases, and as a result, the interval at which the determination of jackpot is performed is shortened, and as a result, the time-short state that makes it easier to shift to the jackpot gaming state. The special game state may be set.

  In the above-described embodiment, the production control board 80, the audio output board 70, and the lamp driver board 35 are provided as the boards on which the circuit for controlling the production apparatus is mounted. You may mount on one board | substrate. Further, a first effect control board (display control board) on which a circuit for controlling the effect display device 9 and the like is mounted and a circuit for controlling other effect devices (lamps, LEDs, speakers 27R, 27L, etc.) are mounted. Alternatively, two substrates, the second effect control substrate, may be provided.

  In the above-described embodiment, the game control microcomputer 560 directly transmits a command to the effect control microcomputer 100. However, the game control microcomputer 560 transmits another command (for example, FIG. 3). The sound output board 70 and the lamp driver board 35 shown in FIG. 5 or the sound / lamp board having the function of the circuit mounted on the sound output board 70 and the function of the circuit mounted on the lamp driver board 35). A control command may be transmitted and transmitted to the effect control microcomputer 100 on the effect control board 80 via another board. In that case, the command may simply pass through another board, or the sound output board 70, the lamp driver board 35, and the sound / lamp board are equipped with control means such as a microcomputer, and the control means receives the command. In response to this, control related to sound control and lamp control is executed, and the received command is changed as it is or, for example, to a simplified command to control the effect display device 9. You may make it transmit to. Even in that case, the effect control microcomputer 100 performs the display control in accordance with the effect control command directly received from the game control microcomputer 560 in the above-described embodiment. Display control can be performed in accordance with commands received from the board 35 or the sound / lamp board.

  In addition, the pachinko gaming machine of the above embodiment can be given a predetermined game value to a player mainly when the special symbol stop symbol variably displayed on the variable display unit based on the start winning prize becomes a predetermined symbol. A pachinko machine that can be given a predetermined gaming value to a player when there is a prize in a predetermined area of an electric game that is released based on a start prize, or a start prize The present invention can be applied even to a pachinko gaming machine in which a predetermined right is generated or continued when a winning is given to a predetermined electric combination that is released when a stop symbol of a variably displayed symbol becomes a predetermined symbol combination . Furthermore, the present invention can be applied to a slot machine that inserts game medals and sets a bet number and plays a game, or a game machine that inserts game balls instead of game medals and sets a bet number and plays a game.

  The present invention can be applied to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine, and can be applied to a gaming machine in which the gaming state can be controlled to a special gaming state such as a probability change state.

It is the front view which looked at the pachinko game machine from the front. It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structural example of a game control board (main board). It is a block diagram showing an example of circuit configuration of an effect control board, a lamp driver board and an audio output board. It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structural example of a power supply board. It is a flowchart which shows the main process which CPU in the microcomputer for game control performs. It is a flowchart which shows a 2 ms timer interruption process. It is explanatory drawing which shows each random number. It is explanatory drawing which shows a jackpot determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows an effect execution determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the relationship between the stop symbol of a special symbol, and a game state. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the stop symbol of an effect symbol. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of a fluctuation pattern. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the content of an effect control command. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the transmission timing of an effect control command. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the transmission timing of an effect control command. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows a starting port switch passage process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol normal process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol normal process. It is a flowchart which shows a fluctuation pattern setting process. It is a flowchart which shows an effect symbol designation | designated command transmission process. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol change process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol stop process. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit end process. It is a flowchart which shows the presentation control main process which CPU for presentation control performs. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of a command reception buffer. It is a flowchart which shows the initialization process. It is a flowchart which shows a command analysis process. It is a flowchart which shows a command analysis process. It is explanatory drawing regarding selection of the kind of 1st effect. It is explanatory drawing regarding selection of the kind of 2nd effect. It is explanatory drawing which shows the kind of 1st effect, and the kind of 2nd effect. It is explanatory drawing which shows the character used by the 1st production and the 2nd production. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example of the 1st effect in a 1st Embodiment, and a 2nd effect. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example of the 2nd effect in 1st Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example of the 2nd effect in 1st Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example of the 1st effect in 1st Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows the flow of the process of the 1st effect and 2nd effect in 1st Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows production control process processing. It is a flowchart which shows a fluctuation pattern command reception waiting process. It is a flowchart which shows an effect design fluctuation start process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of process data. It is a flowchart which shows the process during effect design change. It is a flowchart which shows a 2nd production setting process. It is a flowchart which shows an effect design fluctuation stop process. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit display process. It is a flowchart which shows processing during a big hit game. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example of the 1st effect in a 2nd Embodiment, and a 2nd effect. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example of the 2nd effect in 2nd Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example of the 2nd effect in 2nd Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example of the 1st effect in 2nd Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows the other example of a fluctuation pattern. It is explanatory drawing which shows the other example of the content of an effect control command. It is a flowchart which shows a fluctuation pattern setting process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol stop process. It is a flowchart which shows processing during a big hit game. It is explanatory drawing which shows the flow of the process of the 1st effect in a 2nd Embodiment, and a 2nd effect. It is a flowchart which shows an effect design fluctuation start process. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit display process. It is a flowchart which shows processing during a big hit game. It is a flowchart which shows a 2nd production selection process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example of the 1st effect in a 3rd Embodiment, and a 2nd effect. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example of the 2nd effect in 3rd Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example of the 2nd effect in 3rd Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example of the 1st effect in 3rd Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example of the 1st effect in 3rd Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows the further another example of a fluctuation pattern. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit end process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the flow of the process of the 1st effect in a 3rd Embodiment, and a 2nd effect. It is a flowchart which shows an effect design fluctuation start process. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit end process. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit end process. It is a flowchart which shows a 2nd production setting process.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Pachinko machine 8 Special symbol display 9 Production display device 13 Start winning opening 20 Variable winning ball device 31 Game control board (main board)
56 CPU
80 Production control board 100 Production control microcomputer 101 Production control CPU
109 VDP
560 Microcomputer for game control

Claims (2)

Provided with an effect display device that variably displays a plurality of types of identification information that can be distinguished from each other and derives and displays the display result, and the game state is advantageous to the player when the specific display result is derived and displayed on the effect display device Transition to a specific gaming state, when the special condition is satisfied, shift to the specific gaming state that is advantageous to the player, and after the specific gaming state is finished, the specific display result is derived and displayed as compared with the normal gaming state It is a gaming machine that shifts to a probable state, which is an easy state,
Predetermining means for deciding whether to display the variable information display result of the identification information as the specific display result and whether to establish the special condition before deriving and displaying the variable display display result;
An effect selecting means for selecting a first effect and a second effect different from the first effect from a plurality of types , respectively ;
The first effect selected by the effect selection means is executed in the effect display device during variable display of identification information, and the second effect selected by the effect selection means is shifted to after the variable display of the identification information ends. Effect execution means for executing in the effect display device during the specific gaming state to be performed,
When the predetermining means decides to establish the special condition, the effect selection means is configured to make the display result the specific display result and not to establish the special condition, When the specific first effect is selected as the first effect, the specific second effect is selected as the second effect at a high rate, and when the predetermined first effect is selected as the first effect, the second effect is at a high rate. A predetermined second production is selected as a gaming machine. The effect selecting means includes at least one of a plurality of types when the pre-deciding means decides to use the display result of variable display of identification information as the specific display result and not to use the specific display result. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the selection ratio of the first effect is different.

Images