JP5803884B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine, and in particular, can be applied to a so-called seven machine, a winged article, a right article, or a ball-type gaming machine such as an arrangement ball.

  A ball-type gaming machine (pachinko machine) usually has a start winning device and a big winning device arranged in a game area. In such a gaming machine, determination of success or failure is performed using a random number value for determination acquired due to the game ball entering the start winning device, and the symbol variation game is performed using the special symbol display means. Be started. Then, when the execution time of the symbol variable game has elapsed, the result of the determination of success or failure is stopped and displayed on the special symbol display means. In addition, this type of gaming machine is usually provided with effect display means for performing symbol variation effects and jackpot game effects using effect symbols (pseudo symbols, etc.) separately from the special symbol display means. Using the symbol fixed display, the “result of determination of success / failure determination” is notified.

  When the result of the determination is “winning”, the gaming machine starts a big hit game, and an open operation is performed on the big winning device in the closed state. After the opening operation is started, the opening operation is once completed when a predetermined number of game balls are won in the big winning device or a predetermined time has elapsed, and one “big hit round” is completed. To do. When this “big hit round” is repeated a predetermined number of times (number of rounds), this gaming machine ends the big hit game. Hereinafter, a game ball entering a start prize device may be referred to as a “start prize”.

  By the way, even if a new random number value for determination is acquired during execution of the symbol variation game or jackpot game, it is not in a state in which a new symbol variation game can be started immediately. Until the start timing of the symbol variation game based on the random number value arrives, it is stored in the hold storage means as hold (hold information). The holding storage means stores the determination random value obtained due to the start winning as a holding (holding information) while limiting the predetermined upper limit number, and the determination random number (holding) is stored. When the timing for digestion arrives, the one to be processed first among the random numbers for determination stored in the holding storage means is read out, and is used as a target for determination of success or failure.

  In such gaming machines, prior determination (so-called hold prefetching) is performed on the determination random number value stored in the hold storage means as hold (hold information) prior to the start of the symbol variation game based on the hold. ) And an effect suggesting the result of the prior determination (so-called pre-reading effect) is performed by the effect display means or the like. Specifically, a gaming machine that performs a so-called “hold notice effect” or a so-called “continuous notice effect” as a “prefetch effect” has been proposed (see Patent Document 1).

JP 2004-8597 A

  However, this kind of look-ahead production has become uniform, and it is difficult to enhance the game entertainment. Therefore, the advent of a new production technique that can enhance the entertainment interest of the game machine by utilizing the reservation prefetch function of the gaming machine is desired.

  The present invention has been made to solve such a problem, and an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can enhance a gaming interest by utilizing a hold prefetching function.

The gaming machine of the present invention is
Based on the game ball entering the starting port, the special symbol display means variably displays the special symbol until a predetermined fluctuation time elapses, and shows the result of winning or losing as the variation display ends. A symbol variation game execution means for executing
A jackpot game execution means for executing a jackpot game when a hit variation is performed that will indicate the winning result as the symbol variation game;
When a game ball enters the starting port during the execution of the symbol variation game or the jackpot game, the symbol variation game corresponding to the entered ball is to be executed after the currently executed symbol variation game or jackpot game ends. Holding storage means for storing as holding;
In accordance with the execution of the symbol variation game, the symbol variation effect executing means for executing the symbol variation effect by the effect means,
A gaming machine equipped with
In the case where the hold includes a winning hold in which the result of the symbol variation game is a win, the winning hold is included in the hold as a symbol variation effect corresponding to the winning variation. When a special effect suggesting that there is a possibility is performed, and the winning hold is not included in the hold, the symbol change effect corresponding to the hit variation is the first change from the start of the symbol change effect A normal production having a configuration including a first production and a second production performed through the first production is executed.
First hold determination means for determining whether or not the hit hold is included in the hold when starting the hit variation;
Second hold determination means for determining whether or not the hit hold is included in the hold before the start of the second effect during execution of the normal effect;
When the second hold determining means determines that the hit hold is included in the hold, the effect replacement means for replacing the second effect with the special effect;
It is characterized by providing.

  Here, in this specification, a hold on which the result of the success / failure determination is expected to be a win, that is, a hold on which the result of the symbol variation game is a win is referred to as a “hit hold”, and the result of the determination on the success / failure is a failure A hold that is scheduled to become, that is, a hold where the result of the symbol variation game is missed may be referred to as “off hold”. In addition, the symbol variation game that indicates the winning result may be referred to as “hit variation”, and the symbol variation game that indicates the defeat result may be referred to as “displacement variation”. Further, the determination of whether or not a hold is included in the hold stored in the hold storage means may be referred to as “hold determination” or “hold prefetch determination”. “There is a hold within a certain hold” may be referred to as “there is a hold inside”. In addition, the occurrence of hits (big hits) a plurality of times in a relatively short period of time is referred to as “renso”, and the production suggesting the occurrence of “renso” is sometimes referred to as “renso production”.

  In the present invention, the hold pre-read determination (hold determination by the first hold determination means) is performed at the start of the hit fluctuation, and if the hit hold exists as a result, there is a possibility that the hold is included in the hold. An effect suggesting that there is a certain effect (hereinafter sometimes referred to as a “reservation villa effect”). Further, as a result of the hold prefetch determination at the start of the hit variation (hold determination by the first hold determination means), even if there is no hit hold, the hold prefetch determination (second hold determination) is performed again while the hit variation is being executed. If it is determined that there is a winning hold, it is possible to execute a “holding villa effect (special effect)”.

  In other words, the gaming machine according to the present invention is not only based on the case where there is a hit hold at the start of the hit fluctuation, but also when the hit hold occurs after the hit change starts, "Reserved Renso production (special production)" can be executed. In other words, there was no hit hold at the start of hit fluctuation, but even if hit hold occurs after the hit change starts, it is possible to reflect the occurrence of hit hit in the effect, so it is possible to generate a reserved villa effect It is possible to improve the performance, and to effectively and effectively perform this reserved villa production. Further, by increasing the possibility of occurrence of the reserved consecutive resort effect, it is possible to appeal to the player the game characteristics associated with the generation of the reserved consecutive resort effect. Therefore, according to the present invention, it is possible to enhance the gaming interest by utilizing the reservation prefetch function.

In the gaming machine of the present invention,
Third hold determination means for determining whether or not the hit hold is included in the hold after execution of the normal effect and after the start of the second effect;
When the third hold determination unit determines that the hit hold is included in the hold, the third hold determination unit may include an effect change unit that changes the normal effect being executed.

  In this case, it is determined by the second hold determining means that no hit hold is included, and even when the second effect is executed by the normal effect, the third hold determining means determines that the hit hold is included. If this is done, the normal performance being executed is changed, and a “possibility that there is a chance to win” is suggested to the player. In other words, even if the remaining execution time of the symbol variation effect is reduced by the amount that the first effect is completed, a change is made to the ongoing symbol variation effect (normal effect) and "Possibility that there is a hold". Therefore, it is possible to further increase the possibility of the occurrence of “the production suggesting the possibility that the hitting hold exists”.

Furthermore, in the gaming machine of the present invention,
The effect replacement means is configured to be able to replace the second effect with the special effect even when the second hold determination means determines that the winning hold is not included in the hold. It is good.

  In this case, in order to switch the effect content of the symbol variation effect that is being executed to the content of the special effect, there is a case in which there is a contact hold when the special effect occurs (that is, the notification of the recreational resort). It is possible to alternatively generate a case that is true) and a case in which there is no winning hold even if a special effect occurs (that is, a case where the notification of the villa is false). In other words, “replacement for special effects” and “confirmed renso” do not become “equal”, and the range of games can be expanded, so that the gaming interest can be further enhanced.

Furthermore, in the gaming machine of the present invention,
The special effect includes a third effect from the start of the symbol variation effect and a fourth effect performed through the third effect,
The second hold determination means determines whether the hit hold is included in the hold before the start of the fourth effect during the execution of the special effect,
If the second hold determination means determines that the winning hold is included in the hold before the start of the fourth effect during the execution of the special effect, the effect replacement means, The fourth effect may be replaced with a special effect different from the special effect being executed.

  In this case, hold pre-reading determination (holding determination by the first hold determination means) is performed at the start of hit fluctuation, and as a result, if there is a hit hold, a “holding villa effect (special effect)” is started. While the change is being performed, the hold prefetch determination (hold determination by the second hold determination means) is performed again. As a result, if it is determined that there is a hit hold, the content of the “holding villa effect (special effect)” is displayed. Change to another content. That is, it is possible to appeal to the player that the hit variation is being executed in a “state where there is a possibility that a plurality of hit holds may exist”. In other words, by replacing the fourth effect, it is possible to appeal to the player that the so-called “number of consecutive resorts” may be a plurality of times, so that it is possible to further enhance the gaming interest.

Furthermore, in the gaming machine of the present invention,
When the first hold determination unit determines that the hit hold is not included in the hold, the second hold determination unit determines whether the hold hold is included in the hold. It is good also to judge.

  In this case, when the “special effect” has already been executed, the determination by the second hold determination means is not performed, so that it is possible to enhance the gaming interest while reducing the control burden on the gaming machine.

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

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

According to the present invention 請 Motomeko 1 as described above, it is possible to obtain the game machine can be enhanced game interest by utilizing the hold prefetching.

It is a perspective view which shows the game machine which concerns on each Example of this invention. It is a front view which shows the game board of the game machine which concerns on each Example of this invention. It is a front view which shows roughly the display screen of the effect display apparatus of the game machine which concerns on each Example. (A) And (b) is a front view which shows schematically the variable start winning device. (A) is a front view schematically showing a lower display device of a gaming machine according to each embodiment, and (b) is a special symbol variable display mode executed by the lower display device of the gaming machine according to each embodiment. (C) is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the content of a pseudo | simulation symbol (stop symbol). It is a block diagram which shows the electronic control apparatus which concerns on each Example of this invention. (A) is a block diagram which shows the electronic control apparatus which concerns on each Example of this invention, (b) showed notably that a command was output from the main control part in the game machine which concerns on each Example. It is explanatory drawing. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the command at the time of start winning, the random value memory for determination, the prior determination result information memory, etc. (A)-(c) is explanatory drawing which shows the symbol fluctuation effect etc. which are performed with an effect display apparatus. It is explanatory drawing which shows the relationship between a holding | maintenance situation, a symbol variation game, a symbol variation effect, etc. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating a pattern fluctuation effect. It is explanatory drawing which shows the relationship between a holding | maintenance situation, a symbol variation game, a symbol variation effect, etc. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating a pattern fluctuation effect. It is explanatory drawing which shows the relationship between a holding | maintenance situation, a symbol variation game, a symbol variation effect, etc. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating a pattern fluctuation effect. It is a flowchart which shows the game control process of the game machine which concerns on each Example. It is a flowchart which shows the normal electric accessory game process of the game machine which concerns on each Example. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol game process of the game machine which concerns on each Example. The It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol game process of the game machine which concerns on each Example. The It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol game process of the game machine which concerns on each Example. The It is a flowchart which shows the figure change start process of the game machine which concerns on each Example. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the production control processing of the gaming machine according to each embodiment. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the process at the time of holding | maintenance generation | occurrence | production of the game machine which concerns on each Example. It is a flowchart which shows the design fluctuation effect process of the gaming machine which concerns on Example 1. FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the production | presentation replacement | exchange process of the gaming machine which concerns on Example 1. FIG. It is explanatory drawing which shows the relationship between a holding | maintenance situation, a symbol variation game, a symbol variation effect, etc. It is explanatory drawing which shows the relationship between a holding | maintenance situation, a symbol variation game, a symbol variation effect, etc. It is explanatory drawing which shows the relationship between a holding | maintenance situation, a symbol variation game, a symbol variation effect, etc. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating a pattern fluctuation effect. It is a flowchart which shows the design fluctuation effect process of the gaming machine which concerns on Example 2. FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the production | presentation replacement | exchange process of the game machine which concerns on Example 2. FIG. It is explanatory drawing which shows the relationship between a holding | maintenance situation, a symbol variation game, a symbol variation effect, etc. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating a pattern fluctuation effect. It is a flowchart which shows the symbol fluctuation effect process of Example 3. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the design fluctuation effect of Example 4. FIG. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the design fluctuation effect of Example 5. FIG. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the modification of each Example.

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

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

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

  The main body frame 3 is fitted into the outer frame 2 and is pivotally supported so as to be openable and closable with respect to the outer frame 2. The main body frame 3 is entirely made of plastic, and is constituted by a frame-like body that can hold the game board 10. When the main body frame 3 holds the game board 10 (see FIG. 2), the “game area 11 configured on the board surface (front surface) of the game board 10” is visible from the front of the main body frame 3.

  The front frame 4 is disposed on the front side of the main body frame 3 and is supported at the left end of the main body frame 3 so as to be openable and closable. The front frame 4 includes a frame body 41 having a visual window 41a provided in a state of penetrating in the front-rear direction, and a glass plate 43 fitted in the visual window 41a. The game area 11 formed in the game board 10 (a substantially circular game area 11 in front view) is positioned behind the front frame 4 when the front frame 4 is closed. It can be visually recognized from the front of the front frame 4 through 41a (glass plate 43).

  In the gaming machine 1, “a plate member 5 </ b> A in which the upper plate member 5 and the lower plate member 6 are integrated” is integrated with the front frame 4, and can be opened and closed integrally with the front frame 4 with respect to the main body frame 3. Has been. However, the plate member 5 </ b> A may be mounted below the mounting portion of the front frame 4 in the main body frame 3 so that it can be opened and closed separately from the front frame 4. Further, the upper plate member 5 and the lower plate member 6 are provided separately, arranged below the mounting portion of the front frame 4 in the main body frame 3, and the upper plate member 5 arranged above is separated from the front frame 4. The lower plate member 6 arranged below can be opened and closed and cannot be opened and closed.

  Speakers SP1 and SP2 are mounted on the left and right sides of the front side of the front frame 4, and the speakers SP3 and SP4 are also built in the left and right ends of the front plate part 22, respectively. And in this game machine 1, the sound effect according to a game state and other sounds (sound) are generated using these speakers SP1-SP4. In addition, on the front surface portion of the front frame 4, a portion that constitutes the arrangement position of the upper plate member 5 is provided with a receiving port 5 b for receiving a game ball discharged from the gaming machine 1. Further, a ball rental display board 410 (see FIG. 6) and an effect button board 228 (see FIG. 6) are provided on the back side of the upper plate member 5, and an “effect button SW” is provided on the upper surface of the upper plate member 5. Has been placed.

  A lower dish member 6 is provided at a lower portion of the upper dish member 5, and a game ball discharged from the upper dish member 5 is received in a substantially container-shaped interior at the center of the lower dish member 6. The receiving port 6a is provided. A firing handle 9 is provided on the right end side of the lower plate member 6. A launcher unit 90 (see FIG. 2) is disposed on the rear side of the front surface of the main body frame 3 (inside the main body frame 3) and located on the left end side below the game board 10. The launcher unit 9 is connected to the launcher unit 90. Here, the launcher unit 90 is for launching a game ball sent out from a ball feeder (not shown) substantially vertically upward to reach the game area 11. The launch handle 9 is equipped with a touch switch (touch sensor) 9a for detecting that the player is touching, and in the vicinity thereof, the launch stop for temporarily stopping the launch of the game ball is stopped. A switch 9b is attached.

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

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

  While the inner rail 13 is arranged in a substantially U shape, the game board main body 10A is disposed at the upper left portion at the left end portion, and the “game” between the “upper left portion of the outer rail 12” located on the left side thereof. A “gap through which a sphere can pass” is provided to form a ball entrance 11S. Further, the left end portion of the outer rail 12 is disposed close to the upper left of the ball outlet 96j of the launcher unit 90. In addition, the upper end portion of the auxiliary rail 13 </ b> B is integrated with the outer surface portion of the inner rail 13. Then, the “passage formed between the auxiliary rail 13B and the portion of the outer rail 12 substantially parallel to the auxiliary rail 13B” and the “passage formed between the outer rail 12 and the inner rail 13 above it reach the ball entrance 11S. The “passage” continuously forms the guide route Y. The lower end of the guide path Y communicates with the “ball outlet 96j of the launcher unit 90” and rises leftward from the lower end to rise “outside of the inner rail 13 (on the left side)” It passes the outside of the rail 13 in the clockwise direction and reaches the ball entrance 11S.

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

  The main accessory device 20 is disposed at a substantially central portion in the game area 11, and includes an attachment member (decorative plate) 21 and an effect display device 27. Among these, the attachment member 21 is constituted by a plate-like body attached to the front surface portion of the region forming portion 10B. As shown in FIG. 4, the attachment member (decorative plate) 21 has a substantially rectangular shape in front view. A display window 21e is provided.

  The stage member 21p is attached to the lower edge of the attachment member 21 so as to protrude forward, and the decorative member 21A is attached to the other part of the peripheral edge of the attachment member 21 so as to protrude forward. ing. The decorative member 21A includes a flange portion 21H protruding from the upper edge portion of the mounting member 21, a left decorative portion 21L protruding from the left edge portion of the mounting member 21, and a right decorative portion protruding from the right edge portion of the mounting member 21. 21R.

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

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

  The effect display device 27 constitutes a specific example of “effect means”, is configured using a liquid crystal display device, and executes the symbol change effect in accordance with the special symbol change display and stop display on the lower display device 60. To do. Although the effect display device 27 performs a display effect on the game, the gaming machine 1 serves as “other effect means” as a sound output means (speakers SP1 to SP4) for outputting a game effect sound (sound effect). And a light emitting means (lamp device) for performing a game illumination (light emission effect) and a movable effect means (movable accessory device) for performing a game operation effect. Thus, in the gaming machine 1 that performs a plurality of effect forms (display effect, sound effect, light emission effect, operation effect), the symbol variation effect is performed using one or more things selected from these effect modes. You can also And in this game machine 1, although a design change effect is performed using a display effect, a sound effect, a light emission effect, and an operation effect, in this example, it demonstrates focusing on the display effect which constitutes one mode of a design change effect. Description of other aspects (sound production, light emission production, operation production) is omitted.

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

  As shown in FIG. 3, the display screen 27 a of the effect display device 27 can be displayed so that the player can visually recognize various symbols using the whole or a part thereof. That is, almost the entire display screen 27a becomes a display area, and a pattern indicating a background (hereinafter referred to as background pattern), a background color (blue, red, etc.) is displayed on the display area. The Then, a pseudo symbol display area 27b for displaying three (three digits) pseudo symbols in a state of being superimposed on the front of the background symbols and background colors is provided on the display screen 27a. In the pseudo symbol display area 27b, three pseudo symbols are displayed side by side, and an effect display, a stop display, and the like using these “pseudo symbols” are performed. In addition, a pattern indicating a character (hereinafter referred to as a character pattern) may be displayed as a background pattern, or a live-action image (not shown) may be displayed. Then, a “display effect” is realized by these “pseudo symbols”, “background symbols”, and “character symbols”. When the “pseudo symbol” is variably displayed in the pseudo symbol display area 27b, the background symbol and the background color can be visually recognized with the pseudo symbol display area 27b being watermarked.

  As shown in FIG. 3, a first reserved display area (D1, D2, D3, D4) is provided at an upper position near the left edge of the display screen 27a, and an upper position near the right edge. A second hold display area (E1, E2, E3, E4) is provided at the position. In the first hold display area (D1 to D4), the number of holds (hereinafter referred to as “first hold number”) related to the “first special symbol” generated due to winning in the first start winning device 17a. “4” is displayed as the upper limit number, and in the second hold display area (E1 to E4), the number of holds (hereinafter referred to as “the second special symbol” caused by winning to the second start winning device 17b) "Second hold number") is displayed with "4" as the upper limit number. In the following description, a game ball winning in the first start winning device 17a and a game ball winning in the second start winning device 17b may be referred to as “start winning”.

  Each hold display area (D1 to D4, E1 to E4) has a configuration in which four display units (D1 to D4 and E1 to E4) are arranged from the bottom to the top, and is arranged in the start winning devices 17a and 17b. The number of game balls that have won a prize but have not yet been digested (that is, the number of pending games) is displayed according to the number of display units D1 to D4 and E1 to E4 that are in use (lighted display), and undigested game balls By decrementing the number of display portions D1 to D4 and E1 to E4 that are in use each time the game is digested, the number of “undigested game balls” (the number of pending games) is sequentially decremented and displayed. The “undigested game balls (holding balls)” related to each special symbol are won in the start winning devices 17a and 17b, but the symbol changing game accompanying the winning is performed in the corresponding special symbol display units 62a and 62b. Refers to a non-playing game ball.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the first start winning device 17a is a non-variable start winning device, and has a pocket shape in which an opening portion (game ball receiving port) whose size does not change is opened upward. And since this opening part (game ball entrance) is located in the substantially vertical lower part of the center part of the stage part 21p (rolling surface), after entering the warp passage 21w, the stage part 21p (rolling surface) is moved. If it rolls and falls substantially vertically below the center of the stage portion 21p, the probability (possibility) that the game ball will win the first start winning device 17a increases. In addition, the size of the opening (game ball receiving port) of the first start winning device 17a is set to allow passage of one game ball, and the size is not enlarged or reduced. . A first start opening winning detection switch 17s (see FIG. 6) for detecting the passage of the game ball is disposed inside the first start winning apparatus 17a.

  The second start winning device 17b is a variable (open / close) start winning device, and is disposed immediately below the first start winning device 17a. As shown in FIG. 4 (a), the second start winning device 17b is mounted on a mounting plate 17c fixed to the game board main body 10A by screws and a front portion of the mounting plate 17c, and is attached to the second start winning device 17b. A normal electric accessory 17d that constitutes the inlet side portion and an obstruction member 17K attached to the front surface portion of the mounting plate 17c. The first start winning device 17a described above may function as the obstacle member 17K.

  The ordinary electric accessory 17d is a so-called tulip-type pair of movable wing pieces 17e, 17e and a normal electric accessory solenoid 17c for operating the pair of movable wing pieces 17e, 17e (see FIG. 6). ). Among these, the movable blade pieces 17e, 17e can be opened to the left and right so that the upper end sides are separated from each other around the lower support shaft. When the movable wing pieces 17e and 17e are in a closed state (first state) where the movable wing pieces 17e and 17e are erected, the distance between the upper ends of the movable wing pieces 17e and 17e is reduced. Further, when the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 17c is driven and the movable wing pieces 17e and 17e are tilted so that the upper end sides are separated from each other with respect to the lower end side axis, the upper end portions of the movable wing pieces 17e and 17e. The interval between them is enlarged, and an open state (second state) is established.

  The obstruction member 17k is disposed vertically above the ordinary electric accessory 17d. In addition, a second start opening winning detection switch 17t (see FIG. 6) for detecting the passage of the game ball is disposed inside the second start winning apparatus 17b.

  As shown in FIG. 4 (a), when the second start winning device 17b is in a closed state (first state), one game ball passes between the upper ends of the pair of movable wing pieces 17e, 17e. An allowable space K1 is formed, but an obstacle member 17K is disposed vertically above the space K1. For this reason, it is impossible for the game ball to win the second start winning device 17b in the closed state (first state). On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 4B, when the second starting prize-winning device 17b is in an open state (second state) and the pair of movable blade pieces 17e, 17e are opened to the left and right, the movable blade pieces 17e, 17e The interval K1 between the upper end portions (that is, the full left and right width of the second starting port) is larger than the full left and right width of the obstacle member 17K. For this reason, it is possible for the game balls that have passed through the left and right of the obstacle member 17K to win the second start winning device 17b.

  In the gaming machine 1, when the second start winning device 17b is in the open state (second state), the game balls flowing down the game area 11 can win the second start winning device 17b. Then, when the gaming mode of the gaming machine 1 becomes the open extension mode (described later) and the time for the second start winning device 17b to be in the open state becomes long, the probability that the game ball wins the second start winning device 17b is the first. The probability of winning the 1-start winning device 17a is much higher. In this embodiment, the opening time of the second start winning device 17b in the open extension mode is set to “5 seconds”, and the opening time of the second start winning device 17b in the non-open extension mode (normal opening mode) is set to “0”. .2 seconds ". On the other hand, as described above, when the second start winning device 17b is in the closed state (first state), it is impossible for the game ball to win the second start winning device 17b. When is not in the open extension mode, the probability that the game ball wins the second start winning device 17b is much lower than the probability that the game ball wins the first start winning device 17a.

  As shown in FIG. 2, a large winning device 31 is disposed below the second start winning device 17b. The special winning device 31 includes a mounting plate portion 31k attached to the front surface portion 10a of the game board 10. The mounting plate portion 31k is provided with an opening having a substantially band-like front surface in a substantially central portion so as to penetrate the front and back, and this opening constitutes a big prize opening 31a. The rear end portion of the grand prize winning port 31a is connected to a “large prize winning prize winning passage (not shown)”. In addition, the “Grand Prize Entrance Award Passage” is a passage for allowing a game ball to win from the Grand Prize Exit 31a to pass through, and the game ball that has won the Grand Prize Exit 31a passes through the Grand Prize Exit Award Passage and then plays this game. It is discharged outside the machine 1.

  The grand prize winning device 31 includes an opening / closing plate 31b for opening / closing the grand prize winning port 31a, a grand prize winning solenoid 31c (see FIG. 9) for driving the opening / closing plate 31b, and a prize winning passage winning path. A large winning opening winning detection switch 31s (see FIG. 6) provided in the middle of the route or in the route terminal portion is provided. When the open / close plate 31b is in a standing posture, the open / close plate 31b closes the large winning opening 31a to be in a closed state (first state). Is impossible. On the other hand, when the opening / closing plate 31b is tilted forward with its lower end portion as a fulcrum and assumes a forward leaning posture, the special winning opening 31a is opened to be in an open state (second state), and the rear surface portion of the opening / closing plate 31b. The (rear portion) flows down the game area 11 and constitutes a guide unit that guides the game ball that has reached the prize winning device 31 to the prize winning opening 31a.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the lower display device 60 is arranged on the left side of the big winning device 31. As shown in FIG. 5A, the lower display device 60 includes a mounting plate 61 that is attached to the front surface of the game board main body 10A. The mounting plate 61 is provided with a first special symbol display portion 62a, a second special symbol display portion 62b, a normal symbol display portion 63, a normal symbol hold display portion 65, and the like. The first special symbol display unit 62a and the second special symbol display unit 62b constitute a specific example of “special symbol display means”.

  As shown in FIG. 5A, each of the first special symbol display unit 62a, the second special symbol display unit 62b, and the normal symbol display unit 63 is configured using a “7-segment display”. Among these, in the first special symbol display unit 62a, a first special symbol (determination symbol) indicating a result of the determination of success / failure executed due to the detection of the game ball by the first start opening winning detection switch 17s. Then, stop display after changing display. Further, in the second special symbol display unit 62b, a second special symbol (determination symbol) indicating a result of the success / failure determination executed due to the detection of the game ball by the second start opening winning detection switch 17t, Stop display after changing display. In addition, the result of the symbol variation game displayed on the first special symbol display unit 62a and the second special symbol display unit 62b (result of the determination of success / failure) and the display result of the symbol variation effect display displayed on the effect display device 27 ( It is assumed that the determination result is a match.

  As shown in FIG. 5A, the normal symbol display unit 63 is configured by a “7-segment display body”, and the symbol variation start condition is caused by the game ball passing through one of the normal symbol operation gates 16. When established, the normal symbol variation display is started. In this normal symbol variation display, the normal symbol display section 63 displays the arithmetic numbers from “0” to “9” in this order, and then again displays the arithmetic numbers from “0” to “9”. It consists of “circular display” that repeats the display in order. When the execution time of the normal symbol variation display elapses, the normal symbol is stopped and displayed, and the stop display is executed for a predetermined time. At this time, when the stopped normal symbol is an "odd number", the symbol corresponds to a normal symbol hit symbol, and when the stopped symbol is an "even digit", the symbol is an off-normal symbol symbol. Applicable. The lottery means for performing the lottery to determine whether or not the ordinary electric accessory 17d should be opened is constituted by a main control unit 200A described later.

  The normal symbol hold display unit 65 (a) turns off two LEDs to indicate that the “hold number” is “zero”, and (b) turns off one LED while turning on one LED. To indicate that the “hold number” is “1”, (c) turn on two LEDs to indicate that the “hold number” is “2”, and (d) blink one LED. One LED is turned on to indicate that the “holding number” is “3”, and (e) two LEDs are blinked to indicate that the “holding number” is “4”.

  Returning to FIG. 2, the two general winning devices 40 and 41 are arranged on the left and right of the main accessory device 20. In each of the general winning devices 40 and 41, general winning detection switches 40s and 41s (see FIG. 6) for detecting the winning of the game ball are arranged. Further, an out port 18 is provided below the game board 10. Further, a back ball preventing member (not shown) is provided below the out port 18. And the game ball which returned without reaching the game area 11 is prevented from returning to the launch position again.

(2) Configuration of Control Circuit Next, the configuration of the control circuit of the gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. The control circuit of the gaming machine 1 includes a main control unit 200A and a plurality of sub-control units (220A, 222A, 240A, 260A). That is, the main control unit 200A that is configured using the main control board 200 and that controls the basic progress of the game and whether or not the prize ball is involved, and a plurality of sub-control units (220A, 222A, 240A, 260A). And.

  In addition, the sub-control unit is configured using (a) the sub-control board 220, the sub-control unit 220 </ b> A that controls the game effects, and (b) the effect display control board 222. In addition, an effect display control unit 222A that controls the effect display device 27, and (c) a payout control unit 240A that is configured using the payout control board 240 and controls the operation of paying out a rented or prize ball. (D) A launch control unit 260A configured using the launch control board 260 and controlling the launch of the game ball is provided.

  The control boards (200, 220, 222, 240, 260) constituting these control units (200A, 220A, 222A, 240A, 260A) are executed by a CPU that executes various logical operations and calculation operations, and the CPU. ROM in which various programs and data are stored, RAM in which the CPU stores temporary data when the program is executed, a peripheral device interface (PIO) for exchanging data with peripheral devices, and the CPU performs calculations Various peripheral LSIs such as an oscillator that outputs a clock of the above and a watchdog timer that monitors the runaway of the CPU are connected to each other via a bus. In addition, the direction of the arrow in FIG. 6 represents the direction which inputs / outputs a data or a signal. In addition, the CPU 201, RAM 202, and ROM 203 mounted on the main control board 200 are illustrated, and the CPU 220a, RAM 220b, and ROM 220c mounted on the sub control board 220 are illustrated, and CPUs mounted on other control boards. Further, illustration of RAM, ROM, etc. is omitted.

  The main control unit 200A receives game ball detection signals from the normal symbol operation gate passage detection switch 16s, the start opening winning detection switches 17s and 17t, the general winning detection switches 40s and 41s, etc., and the basic progress and prizes of the game. After determining whether or not the ball is relevant, various signals (commands) to be described later are output to the sub-control unit 220A, the payout control unit 240A, the launch control unit 260A, and the like. Further, the main control unit 200A directly controls these operations by outputting signals to the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 17c, the big prize opening solenoid 31c, and the lower display device 60. Further, predetermined signals (commands) determined by the CPU 201 constituting the main control unit 200A (main control board 200) are transmitted to the sub control board 220 and the payout control board 240, respectively. The main control unit 200A constitutes a specific example of “hold storage unit”.

  When the sub-control unit 220A (sub-control board 220) receives various signals (commands) from the main control unit 200A (main control board 200), it analyzes the contents of the signals (commands) and plays games according to the results. The production of. That is, the sub-control unit 220A (sub-control board 220) controls the game effects based on the control signal from the main control unit 200A (main control board 200). The sub-control unit 220A (sub-control board 220) is electrically connected to the effect display control unit 222A (effect display control board 222), the amplifier board 224, the decoration drive board 226, and the effect button board 228, respectively. It is connected. The sub control board 220 includes a CPU 220a, a RAM 220b, and a ROM 220c. The sub-control unit 220A (sub-control board 220) constitutes specific examples of symbol variation effect execution means, first hold determination means, second hold determination means, third hold determination means, and effect replacement means.

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

  As shown in FIG. 7A, the effect display control board 222 includes a CPU 222a, a control ROM 222p, a control RAM 222c, a VDP (video display processor) 222d, a work RAM 222e, and a display ROM (character ROM) 222g. And a video RAM 222h. In addition, an effect display device 27 is electrically connected to the VDP 222d.

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

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

  Speakers SP1 to SP4 (see FIG. 1) that output predetermined sound effects are electrically connected to the amplifier board 224. The decoration driving board 226 is connected to various LED boards on which various decorative LEDs (lamps) provided on the front frame 4, the game board 10, and the like, and decorative (production) actuators are connected. The decoration driving board 226 receives a signal from the sub-control board 220A and performs control related to game decoration.

  As shown in FIG. 6, a relay terminal plate, a firing control unit 260 </ b> A, a lower pan full tank switch 6 s, and the like are connected to the payout control unit 240 </ b> A. The payout control unit 240A is connected to a payout motor 109m, a front payout switch 109a, and a rear payout switch 109b constituting a game ball payout device (payout device) 109 via a relay terminal plate. Further, the main control unit 200A is connected to the payout control unit 240A so as to be capable of bidirectional communication. The payout control unit 240A is responsible for various types of control related to so-called ball rental and prize ball payout. When the main controller 200A outputs a prize ball payout command, the payout control part 240A receives this command and outputs a drive signal to the payout motor 109m to pay out the prize ball.

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

  Next, a drive signal (various symbol control commands) of the effect display device 27 is output to the effect display control unit 222A to perform variable display and stop display of effect symbols (pseudo symbols, background symbols, character symbols, etc.). At this time, the display data (still image data, moving image data, etc.) of the displayed effect symbols (pseudo symbol, background symbol, character symbol, live-action image, etc.) is displayed on the effect display device 27 or the effect display control board 222. The data stored in the display ROM 222g built in is used.

  Sound effects are output from the speakers SP <b> 1 to SP <b> 4 by outputting sound signals to the amplifier substrate 224 in accordance with the pseudo symbol variation display and stop display. In addition, by supplying a signal to the decorative drive board 226 and outputting drive signals of the various LED lamps 4b to 4h) from the decorative drive board 226, various lamps (LEDs, etc.) can be turned on and blinked. Control.

  Next, the “hold storage unit” and the like will be described with reference to FIG. That is, the RAM 202 mounted on the main control board 200 includes a first determination random value memory 202a, a second determination random value memory 202b, a first hold number memory 202c, and a second hold number memory 202d. A first preliminary determination result memory (not shown) and a second preliminary determination result memory (not shown) are provided. In addition, the RAM 220b mounted on the sub-control board 220 includes a first advance determination result information memory 221b, a second advance determination result information memory 222b, a first hold number information memory 223b, and a second hold number information memory 224b. And are provided. Hereinafter, the “effective start prize” refers to a start prize that occurs when the corresponding number of holds (first hold number or second hold number) is not the upper limit number.

  When an effective start winning for the first start winning device 17a occurs, a corresponding random number for determination (hereinafter, also referred to as “first determination random value”) is acquired, and in the main control board 200, The first determination random number value is stored in the first determination random number value memory 202a in the shift memory format, and the value indicating the first reservation number is cumulatively stored (added and stored) in the first reservation number memory 202c. The Here, the “first determination random number value” includes “a determination random number value for determining whether or not it is a big hit (hit lottery random number value)” and a symbol for determining a big hit symbol (special symbol). “Determined random value” and the like.

  Further, when the first determination random number is stored in the first determination random value memory 202a, the CPU 201 constituting the main control board 200 performs the prior determination regarding the determination of the success / failure and the prior determination regarding the big hit symbol (special symbol) (the big hit) In the case of obtaining a pre-determination result indicating occurrence), and the result of these pre-determinations (hereinafter referred to as “first pre-determination”) as a first pre-determination result (not shown) in a shift memory format Remember me. Accordingly, the first start winning command is transmitted from the main control board 200 to the sub-control board 220.

  Here, the first start winning time command based on the start winning for the first start winning device 17a is “information that can specify the result of the first pre-judgment (hereinafter referred to as“ first pre-judgment result information ”). This is a command indicating “information that can specify the first hold number after the start winning prize (hereinafter referred to as“ first hold number information ”)” and the like. When the sub control board 220 receives the first start winning time command, the sub control board 220 stores “first pre-determination result information” in the first pre-determination result information memory 221b in the shift memory format, and also stores the first hold number information memory. The value of the first hold number stored in 223b is incremented by “+1”. Then, the CPU 220a of the sub control board 220 hits the first determination random number value memory 202a (holding storage means) based on the first preliminary determination result information stored in the first preliminary determination result information memory 221b. It is possible to determine whether or not the result of 1 determination of success / failure is stored as a random determination value for determination of success / failure that is a big hit.

  When an effective start winning for the second start winning device 17b is generated, a corresponding determination random value (hereinafter, also referred to as “second determination random value”) is acquired, and in the main control board 200, The second determination random number value is stored in the second determination random number value memory 202b in a shift memory format, and a value indicating the second hold number is cumulatively stored (added and stored) in the second hold number memory 202d. The Here, the “second determination random value” includes, as in the case of the first determination random value, “a determination random number value for determining whether or not it is a big hit (hit lottery random value)”, “a big hit symbol ( The symbol determination random number value for determining the “special symbol” is included.

  Further, when the second determination random number value is stored in the second determination random value memory 202b, the CPU 201 constituting the main control board 200 performs a prior determination regarding the determination of success / failure and a prior determination regarding the jackpot symbol (special symbol) (big hit) And the result of these preliminary determinations (hereinafter referred to as “second preliminary determination”) is shifted to a second preliminary determination result memory (not shown). Store in memory format. Along with this, a second start winning command is transmitted from the main control board 200 to the sub-control board 220.

  Here, the second start winning command based on the start winning for the second start winning device 17b is “information that can specify the result of the second pre-determination (hereinafter referred to as“ second pre-determination result information ”)”, This is a command indicating “information with which the second hold number after the start winning can be specified (hereinafter referred to as“ second hold number information ”)” or the like. Then, when receiving the second start winning command, the sub-control board 220 stores information indicating the result of the second preliminary determination (second preliminary determination result information) in the second preliminary determination result information memory 222b in a shift memory format. At the same time, the value of the second hold number stored in the second hold number information memory 224b is incremented by "+1". Then, the CPU 220a of the sub control board 220 hits the second determination random number value memory 202b (holding storage means) based on the second preliminary determination result information stored in the second preliminary determination result information memory 222b. It is possible to determine whether or not a random determination value for determining whether or not 2 is a big hit is stored.

  The first determination random value memory 202a and the second determination random value memory 202b constitute a specific example of “holding storage means” for storing a determination random number (holding information) acquired based on the start winning. The “first determination random number” is a generic name of determination random numbers (holding information) acquired based on an effective start winning for the first start winning device 17a, and the “second determination random number” is a second start winning prize. It is a generic name for random numbers for determination (holding information) acquired based on a valid start prize for the device 17b. Also, a first determination random value memory 202a, a second determination random value memory 202b, a first pre-determination result memory (not shown), a second pre-determination result memory (not shown), a first Each of the preliminary determination result information memory 221b and the second preliminary determination result information memory 222b includes four storage areas of “area 0”, “area 1”, “area 2”, and “area 3”. The corresponding data can be stored in the order of “Area 0”, “Area 1”, “Area 2”, “Area 3”, and an effective start winning (effective start for the first start winning device 17a). Each time a winning, a valid starting winning for the second starting winning device 17b) occurs, the corresponding data is stored in the shift memory format.

  For example, if data is stored in a plurality of areas including area 0 in the memory that is the target of each determination random value (first determination random value, second determination random value), the target Each time the random number value for determination (the first random number value for determination and the second random number value for determination) is digested, the data stored in the area other than the area 0 (for example, the areas 1 to 3) is changed to “area 0”. One area is shifted toward the other. Here, in this specification, the determination random number value stored in the corresponding determination random number value (the first determination random value memory 202a and the second determination random value memory 202b) is stored first. The determination of whether or not to win (to be described later) based on the read determination random number and the symbol variation game based on this determination is referred to as “digest the determination random number”.

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

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

  Here, in the gaming machine 1, in the first special symbol display section 62a, the game ball is detected by the first start opening winning detection switch 17s (hereinafter referred to as “first start winning”). Due to the fact that the “symbol changing game relating to the first special symbol” is executed and the game ball is detected by the second start opening winning detection switch 17t (hereinafter referred to as “second start winning”), the second. In the special symbol display section 62b, the “symbol changing game related to the second special symbol” is executed. In addition, with the execution of “symbol changing game related to the first special symbol” or “symbol changing game related to the second special symbol”, the effect display device 27 executes the symbol change effect. The outlines of “symbol changing game” and “symbol changing effect display” will be described below.

a. Symbol Variation Game “The symbol variation game according to the first special symbol” is composed of the variation display and stop display of the first special symbol, and “The symbol variation game according to the second special symbol” is the variation display and stop of the second special symbol. Composed by display. As shown in FIG. 5 (b), these variable displays are incomplete symbols (hereinafter referred to as “unsatisfied”) in which arithmetic numbers cannot be formed by the 7-segment display body constituting the corresponding special symbol display section (62a or 62b). The content is to perform "circular display" of a complete symbol). Then, the result of the determination of success / failure due to the “first start winning” (hereinafter referred to as “first determination of success / failure”) is displayed by the stop display in the “symbol changing game related to the first special symbol”. The result of the determination of success / failure due to the “second start winning” (hereinafter referred to as “second determination of success / failure”) is displayed by the stop display in the “symbol changing game related to the special symbol”.

  Note that when the probability mode of the gaming machine 1 is the low probability mode (normal probability mode), the probability that the determination result indicating the big hit is derived in both the first winning determination and the second winning determination is about “ When the probability mode of the gaming machine 1 is the high probability mode, the probability that the determination result indicating the big hit is derived in both the first win / fail determination and the second win / fail determination is about “ 1/40 ". When the determination result indicating the big hit is stopped and displayed on the special symbol display portion 62a, a “hit” is generated, and the big hit game is executed. In this embodiment, when the result of the determination is a big hit, the big hit symbol to be stopped and displayed on the special symbol display unit 62a (62a or 62b) is determined using a random number lottery. Specifically, by this random number lottery (distribution lottery), the jackpot symbol is “a jackpot symbol indicating the occurrence of 16R probability variable jackpot”, “the jackpot symbol indicating the occurrence of 16R normal jackpot”, “the occurrence of the 8R probability variation jackpot” The jackpot symbol is determined to be either “Big jackpot symbol” or “Big jackpot symbol indicating occurrence of 8R normal jackpot”.

  When the big hit game is started, the main control unit 200A drives and stops the big prize opening solenoid 31c, so that the “opening / closing operation for opening and closing the big prize opening 31a” is executed. In each round game during the big hit game, an open / close operation is performed on the big prize device 31 to change the big prize opening 31a to the open state (second state) only once. In addition, when a predetermined number (10) of game balls enter the big winning opening 31a or when the opening time of the big winning opening 31a reaches the opening limit time (30 seconds), the round end condition is satisfied. To finish the current round game (big hit round). When the opening / closing operation of the big winning device 31 is repeated a plurality of times with a predetermined interval in between, the big hit game is finished.

  In this gaming machine 1, when a “16R probability variable big hit” or “16R normal big hit” occurs, a big hit game A with the number of executions of “round game” being “16 times” is executed. When the big hit is generated, the big hit game B is executed with the number of executions of the “round game” being “8 times”. And according to the mode of the jackpot symbol that is stopped and displayed (determined display) on the special symbol display section (62a or 62b), the contents of the jackpot game (round game) to be executed, the game machine 1 after the jackpot game ends The gaming state will be different.

  Further, when “16R probability variation big hit” or “8R probability variation big hit” occurs, the probability mode of the gaming machine 1 is changed to the high probability mode after executing the corresponding big hit game, and “open extension mode (open extension means and The game mode in which the fluctuation time shortening means operates). In the high probability mode and the open extension mode, the open extension mode continues substantially until the next big hit is generated. On the other hand, when “16R normal big hit” or “8R normal big hit” is generated, after executing the corresponding big hit game, the probability mode of the gaming machine 1 is set to the low probability mode (normal probability mode) and “open extension mode” However, this “open extension mode” is continued until the cumulative number of special symbol variation games that are executed without causing a big hit after the corresponding big hit game ends is “100”.

b. Next, the symbol variation effect performed in the gaming machine 1 of this embodiment will be described. In the following, after describing the outline of the symbol variation effect, the characteristics of the symbol variation effect (hereinafter referred to as “winning symbol variation effect”) performed in accordance with the hit variation will be described. The execution time (variation time) of the symbol variation effect is also specified by a variation pattern (described later) determined at the start of the symbol variation game (design variation effect).

b-1. Outline of symbol variation effect The symbol variation effect is also started based on a prize (start prize) to the first start prize device 17a or the second start prize device 17b. In this symbol variation effect, as shown in FIGS. 9A to 9C, a pseudo symbol display area 27b appears in a predetermined part of the display screen 27a of the effect display device 27, and the pseudo symbol variation display (pseudo symbol) is displayed. The symbol variation effect using) is started. Then, when the execution time (variation time) of the pseudo symbol variation display elapses, the pseudo symbol stop display is performed for a predetermined time (about 0.6 seconds). This pseudo-symbol stop display is to display the result of the determination as to whether or not it is the same as the stop display by the lower display device 60 (the special symbol display unit (62a or 62b)).

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

  Further, as shown in FIG. 5C, there are “stop symbol indicating big hit (big hit symbol)” and “stop symbol indicating loss (loss symbol)” as the stop symbol of the pseudo symbol. Among them, the “big hit symbol indicating a promising big hit” is configured by arranging three “identical odd numbers” in the pseudo symbol display area 27b, and the “big hit symbol indicating a normal big hit” is displayed in the pseudo symbol display area 27b as “the same even number”. Are arranged side by side. In addition, the “off symbol” is configured with at least one of the three pseudo symbols stopped and displayed in the pseudo symbol display area 27b as a numerical symbol different from the others. In addition, as shown in FIG. 9C, when the “big hit symbol” is displayed on the effect display device 27, the reach display is performed in the middle of the fluctuation display as a premise thereof, but when the “out symbol” is displayed, As shown in FIG. 9 (b), when reach display is performed in the middle of the presumed variation display, and reach display is not performed during the premise variation display as shown in FIG. 9 (a). There is a case. Further, in the gaming machine 1, as a display effect (hereinafter referred to as “reach effect”) performed after reach display, a reach effect with simple effect content (hereinafter referred to as “non-developed effect” in which the effect content does not develop during the effect). Or “normal reach production”) or “development production” in which production content develops during production.

  As described above, as the symbol variation effect, “winning symbol variation effect” or symbol variation effect (hereinafter referred to as “out symbol variation effect”) performed in accordance with the deviation variation is executed. And in this gaming machine 1, since the execution time (fluctuation time) of hit fluctuation is set uniformly long (for example, 20 seconds or more), in the “winning symbol change effect”, it is uniformly set as “reach effect”. Perform "Development production". However, a long time (for example, 20 seconds or more) and a short time (for example, less than 20 seconds) are alternatively selected as the hit fluctuation execution time (fluctuation time), and a long time for the hit fluctuation execution time is selected. When selected, the “development effect” may be executed as the “reach effect”, and when the short time is selected, the “non-development effect” may be executed as the “reach effect”. Then, when a short time is selected as the execution time of the hit variation, it may be excluded from the “effect replacement” described later (see a modification described later using FIG. 37).

b-2. Characteristics of “Winning Symbol Fluctuation Effect” Next, the characteristics of “winning symbol variation effect” will be described. In the following description, the hold (randomness value for determination) is stored in the storage (first determination random value memory 202a, second determination random value memory 202b). The determination as to whether or not a random number for determining whether or not the result is a big hit is sometimes referred to as “hold determination”, and “the hold stored in the hold storage means includes a hit. Is sometimes referred to as “there is a pending call”.

  In addition, in FIG. 10, FIG. 12, FIG. 14, FIG. 26 to FIG. 28, and FIG. 32, the notation in which “double circle figure and hit character” are written is “hit hold” and “hatched circle”. The notation in which both the figure and the out-of-line character are written together indicates “out-of-line hold”. Further, in each of the specific examples shown below, “effects from the start of the symbol variation effect until the reach display is performed” indicates specific examples of “first effect” and “third effect”. The “effect (development effect) performed until the symbol variation effect is completed” constitutes a specific example of “second effect” and “fourth effect”. In other words, from the start to the end of the symbol variation effect, the previous effect (first effect, third effect) until the reach display is made, and the subsequent effect (second effect, fourth effect) after the reach display is made. Can be distinguished. In FIG. 10, FIG. 12, FIG. 14, FIG. 26 to FIG. 28, FIG. 32, "start time C" indicates a "command at the start of symbol fluctuation" (see FIG. 24, etc.) to be described later. “Time C” indicates a “start winning prize command” described later (see FIGS. 18 and 23).

  In each of the specific examples shown below, the CPU 220a of the sub-control board 220, when starting the symbol variation effect (symbol variation game), the prior determination result information memory (first preliminary determination result information memory 221b, second preliminary determination result information) By referring to the memory 222b), it is determined whether or not the hold is stored in the hold storage means (the first determination random value memory 202a and the second determination random value memory 202b). The determination may be referred to as “first hold determination”. In each of the specific examples shown below (except for specific example 2), the CPU 220a of the sub control board 220 also determines the determination result information memory (first pre-determination result information memory 221b, 2) By referring to the pre-determination result information memory 222b), it is determined whether or not a hold is stored in the hold storage means (the first determination random value memory 202a and the second determination random value memory 202b). Hereinafter, this determination may be referred to as “second hold determination”.

  In each embodiment, the CPU 220a of the sub-control board 220 refers to the first hold determination and the second hold determination according to the type of the special symbol (first special symbol, second special symbol) for which the hit variation is executed. The predetermination result information memory (the first predetermination result information memory 221b and the second predetermination result information memory 222b) is different. In other words, the CPU 220a refers to the first pre-determination result information memory 221b for the first hold determination to be executed at the start of the hit fluctuation related to the first special symbol, and the target hold storage means (the first determination random value) It is determined whether or not a hit is stored in the memory 202a), and the CPU 220a refers to the first pre-determination result information memory 221b in the second hold determination executed in the middle of the fluctuation of hits related to the first special symbol. Then, it is determined whether or not the hold is stored in the target hold storage means (first determination random value memory 202a). In other words, in the first hold determination and the second hold determination that are executed in response to the hit fluctuation relating to the first special symbol, even if the “pre-determination that a big hit is generated” is stored in the second pre-determination result information memory 222b. Even if “information indicating that the result of” has been obtained ”is stored, if“ information indicating that the result of the prior determination indicating that a big hit has occurred ”is not stored in the first prior determination result information memory 221b, A determination result indicating that no hold is stored in the target hold storage means (first determination random value memory 202a) is obtained.

  Similarly, the CPU 220a refers to the second pre-determination result information memory 222b when performing the first hold determination to be executed at the start of the hit fluctuation related to the second special symbol, and the target hold storage means (second determination disturbance) It is determined whether or not the hit hold is stored in the numerical memory 202b), and the CPU 220a refers to the second pre-determination result information memory 222b in the second hold determination executed in the middle of the hit variation related to the second special symbol. Thus, it is determined whether or not a hold is stored in the target hold storage means (second determination random value memory 202b). In other words, in the first hold determination and the second hold determination that are executed in response to the hit fluctuation related to the second special symbol, the “pre-determination that a big hit is generated” is stored in the first pre-determination result information memory 221b. Even if “information indicating that the result of the previous determination has been obtained” is stored, if “information indicating that the result of the prior determination indicating that a big hit has occurred” is not stored in the second prior determination result information memory 222b, A determination result indicating that no hold is stored in the target hold storage means (second determination random value memory 202b) is obtained.

  Specific example 1 shown in FIG. 10 and FIG. 11 shows the design by digesting the first stored hold (hereinafter referred to as “first hold”) when the second hold number is “3”. The case where a variable game and a design variation effect are started is shown. Also in the first specific example, the “first hold” is “hit hold”, the hold processed next to the first hold (hereinafter referred to as “next hold”), and “next hold”. In this case, the hold (hereinafter referred to as “hold hold”) to be processed next to the “stop hold” is “off hold hold”.

  In the first specific example, as shown in FIG. 10, when the start timing of the fluctuation related to the earliest hold comes, the hit special fluctuation using the second special symbol is started in the second special symbol display unit 62b, and the effect display is performed. The symbol variation effect is started by the device 27 (a1 in FIG. 11). In this case, the CPU 220a of the sub-control board 220 performs the first hold determination at the timing of starting the symbol variation effect (symbol variation game). In this specific example 1, as described above, the “next hold” and the “next hold” are performed. Since “hold” is “off hold”, the first hold determination obtains a determination result indicating that no hold is stored in the “hold storage unit”.

  For this reason, the symbol variation effect of the specific example 1 is executed as a “normal effect”. That is, this symbol variation effect is started by reproducing the “normal effect effect image”. Examples of the effect image include an effect image composed of a still image, an effect image composed of a moving image, and an effect image composed of both a still image and a moving image. When the symbol variation effect (ordinary effect) of Example 1 is started, a character indicating the player's ally (hereinafter referred to as “friend character”) and the player's enemy are displayed on the display screen 27a of the effect display device 27. A character (hereinafter referred to as “enemy character”) appears. However, this enemy character is a character indicating a “weak enemy” and is referred to as a “weak enemy character” in the following description.

  In this specific example 1, it is assumed that after the symbol variation effect is started (for example, when 5 seconds have elapsed from the start), “off hold” occurs (a2 in FIG. 11). Furthermore, when a predetermined time elapses from the start of the symbol variation effect (for example, when 10 seconds elapses), reach display is performed in the pseudo symbol display area 27b (a3 in FIG. 11). At this time, the CPU 220a of the sub-control board 220 performs the second hold determination. In the specific example 1, as described above, “next hold” and “next hold” are “off hold” and the symbol variation effect is produced. Since the hold that has occurred after the start is also “off hold”, the determination result that the hold is not stored by the “hold storage means” is also obtained by the second hold determination.

  For this reason, the development effect (second effect) started after the reach display is executed as the normal effect (a4, a5 in FIG. 11). That is, the development effect (second effect) is executed while reproducing the “normal effect effect image”. This development effect (second effect) is a battle effect whose content is that a “friend character” and a “weak enemy character” perform a battle, and immediately before the end of the symbol variation effect, the “friendly character” becomes a “weak enemy”. A display indicating that the character is defeated is displayed (a6 in FIG. 11). Accordingly, the player is notified that the on-hold hit cannot be confirmed even by the second hold determination. Thereafter, the result of the determination of success / failure is displayed, and the symbol variation effect according to the specific example 1 is completed (a7 in FIG. 11).

  Specific example 2 shown in FIG. 12 and FIG. 13 also shows a case in which the symbol variation game and the symbol variation effect are started by digesting “first hold” when the second number of reservations is “3”. Yes. Further, in the specific example 2, “first hold” and “next hold” are “hit hold” and “next hold” is “off hold”.

  Also in the second specific example, as shown in FIG. 12, when the start timing of the fluctuation related to the earliest hold comes, the hit special fluctuation using the second special symbol is started in the second special symbol display unit 62b and the effect display is performed. The design variation effect is started by the device 27 (b1 in FIG. 13). In this case as well, the CPU 220a of the sub-control board 220 performs the first hold determination at the timing of starting the symbol change effect (symbol change game), but the hold is stored in the “hold storage means” by the first hold determination. A determination result is obtained.

  For this reason, the symbol variation effect of the specific example 2 is executed as a “special effect” from the start to the end. That is, the symbol variation effect is started by reproducing the “effect image for special effect”, and the “effect image for special effect” is reproduced until the symbol variation effect ends. When the symbol variation effect (special effect) of the specific example 2 is started, an ally character and an enemy character appear on the display screen 27 a of the effect display device 27. However, this enemy character is a character indicating “strong enemy”, and is referred to as “strong enemy character” in the following description.

  Also in this specific example 2, after starting the symbol variation effect (for example, when 5 seconds have passed since the start), a “off hold” occurs (b2 in FIG. 13), and the symbol variation effect starts. When a predetermined time elapses (for example, 10 seconds elapses), reach display is performed in the pseudo symbol display area 27b (b3 in FIG. 13). At this time, the CPU 220a of the sub control board 220 does not perform the second hold determination.

  In the second specific example, the effect before the reach display (third effect) is performed as a special effect (b1 to b3 in FIG. 13), and the development effect (fourth effect) started after the reach display is also a special effect. The process is executed as it is (b4 and b5 in FIG. 13). That is, the pre-development effect (third effect) and the development effect (fourth effect) are executed while reproducing the “effect image for special effect”. The development effect (fourth effect) is a battle effect whose content is that the “friend character” and the “strong enemy character” perform a battle, and immediately before the end of the symbol variation effect, the “ally character” becomes the “strong enemy character”. Is displayed indicating that the player has won (b6 in FIG. 13). Thereby, the player is notified that the on-hold hit can be confirmed by the first hold determination. Thereafter, the result of the determination of success / failure is displayed, and the symbol variation effect according to the specific example 2 is completed (b7 in FIG. 13).

  Specific example 3 shown in FIG. 14 and FIG. 15 also shows a case in which the symbol variation game and the symbol variation effect are started by digesting “first hold” when the second number of reservations is “3”. Yes. Also in the specific example 3, this “first hold” is “hit hold” and “next hold” and “next hold” are “off hold”.

  Also in the specific example 3, as shown in FIG. 14, when the start timing of the fluctuation related to the earliest hold comes, the hit special fluctuation using the second special symbol is started in the second special symbol display unit 62b, and the effect display The design variation effect is started by the device 27 (c1 in FIG. 15). In this case, the CPU 220a of the sub-control board 220 performs the first hold determination at the timing of starting the symbol change effect (symbol change game), and the hold is stored in the “hold storage means” by the first hold determination. A determination result indicating that there is not is obtained.

  For this reason, the symbol variation effect of the specific example 3 is executed as a “normal effect”. That is, this symbol variation effect is started by reproducing the “normal effect effect image”, and when the symbol variation effect (normal effect) is started, the “friend character” and “weak” are displayed on the display screen 27a of the effect display device 27. "Enemy character" appears. In this specific example 3, it is assumed that “hit on hold” occurs after starting the symbol variation effect (for example, when 5 seconds have passed since the start) (c2 in FIG. 15). Further, when a predetermined time elapses from the start of the symbol variation effect (for example, when 10 seconds elapses), reach display is performed in the pseudo symbol display area 27b (c3 in FIG. 15).

  At this time, the CPU 220a of the sub-control board 220 performs the second hold determination. However, in the specific example 3, as described above, the “hold hold” occurs after the start of the symbol variation effect. As a result of the determination, a determination result indicating that the hold is stored in the “hold storage means” is obtained. For this reason, the development effect (second effect) started after the reach display is executed in a state where it is replaced with the special effect (c4, c5 in FIG. 15). That is, the development effect (second effect) is executed while reproducing the “effect image for special effect”.

  This development effect (second effect) is a battle effect whose content is that a “friend character” and a “strong enemy character” perform a battle. Just before the end of the symbol variation effect, the “ally character” becomes a “strong enemy character”. Is displayed (c6 in FIG. 15). Thereby, the player is notified that the on-hold hit can be confirmed by the second hold determination. Thereafter, the result of the determination of success / failure is displayed, and the symbol variation effect according to the specific example 3 is completed (c7 in FIG. 15).

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

  The main control unit 200A and the sub control unit 220A are connected by a 9-bit width parallel signal cable. Of these, one bit is allocated for outputting a strobe signal, and the remaining eight bits are allocated for command output. When a command is output from the main control unit 200A to the sub-control unit 220A, first, command data for 8 bits is output to an 8-bit signal cable assigned for command output, and then A 1-bit strobe signal is output. Further, the sub control unit 220A can reliably read the command transmitted from the main control unit 200A by reading the command data at the rising timing of the strobe signal. Here, examples of commands output from the main control unit 200A to the sub-control unit 220A include (A) a variation pattern designation command and (B) a special symbol stop information designation command. The variation pattern designation command is a command for designating a variation pattern.

(5) Outline of Game Control by Main Control Unit 200A FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing a rough flow of game control processing executed by the CPU 201 mounted on the main control board 200. In this game control process, each process such as a prize ball payout process (S80), a normal symbol game process (S100), a normal electric game game process (S200), a special symbol game process (S300), a big hit game process (S600), etc. Is executed repeatedly. Note that the CPU 201 mounted on the main control board 200 of the present embodiment is configured to execute the processing of S80 to S600 in FIG. 16 every time a timer interrupt with a period of 4 msec occurs after the power is turned on. That is, the processing of S80 to S600 in FIG. 16 is repeatedly executed every 4 msec.

  In this embodiment, among the processes constituting the game control process shown in FIG. 16, the description of the prize ball payout process (S80) and the big hit game process (S600) will be omitted. The prize ball payout process (S80) is a process related to a prize ball payout when a game ball wins a winning device (17a, 17b, 31, 40, 41), and the big hit game process is for executing a big hit game. It is processing.

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

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

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

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

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

C. Special design game processing (S300)
Next, an outline of the special symbol game process will be described with reference to FIGS. When the special symbol game process (S300) is started, as shown in FIG. 18, it is first determined whether or not a game ball has won the first start winning device 17a or the second start winning device 17b (see FIG. 18). S301a, S301b). Then, when a negative determination is made in the processing of S301a and the processing of S301b (S301a; NO, S301b; NO), the process directly proceeds to the processing after S308 shown in FIG.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that a game ball has won the first start winning device 17a (S301a; YES), the number of first special symbols corresponding to the first starting winning device 17a (first hold number) is a predetermined number. It is determined whether it is less than (less than 4 in this embodiment) (S302a). In the process of S302a, if it is determined that the number is less than the predetermined number (S302a; YES), a first determination random number value (specific figure 1 determination random value) related to winning in the first start winning device 17a is acquired. (S303a). The first determination random number value is stored in the first determination random number value memory 202a (see FIG. 8), so that the “first hold number” stored in the first hold number memory 202c is “ +1 ”. Hereinafter, winning of a game ball in the first start winning device 17a may be referred to as “first start winning”.

  Further, the first determination random number value acquired in the process of S303a is (a) a big hit lottery executed due to the first start winning prize (hereinafter referred to as “special figure 1 big hit lottery”). 1 random number value for determination of success / failure (hereinafter, referred to as “special figure 1 big hit lottery random number value”), (b) a random number value for determination (hereinafter, referred to as a big hit symbol to be stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display section 62a) , “Special figure 1 big hit symbol determination random number value”), (c) whether or not to perform reach display (reach effect) in the pseudo symbol change display (symbol change effect) executed on the display screen 27a of the effect display device 27 There is a reach random number value for determining whether or not (Special Figure 1 reach random value).

  Following the process of S303a, the CPU 201 uses the first determination result random number value (special figure 1 big hit lottery random value) acquired in the process of S303a to make a pre-determination (first special decision determination (special figure 1 big hit lottery)) ( First pre-determination is performed, and information indicating the result is stored in a first pre-determination result memory (not shown in FIG. 8) (S304a). Then, after the first start winning command is transmitted to the sub-control board 220 (S307a), the process proceeds to S308 in FIG. Here, as described above, the first start winning time command is a command indicating information that can specify the result of the first pre-determination, the first hold number after the start winning to the first starting winning device 17a, and the like. . However, unlike the present embodiment, the command for specifying the first hold number after the start winning to the first start winning device 17a and the command for specifying other information may be different commands.

  If the result of the first win / fail determination (special figure 1 big hit lottery) is a big win (win) in the first prejudgment, the “special figure 1 symbol determination random number” is used in the first prejudgment. "Pre-judgment regarding jackpot symbol" is also executed. Information that can specify the result of the pre-judgment regarding the jackpot symbol is also included in the first start winning command. In this case, the processing of S304a is performed when the hold (first determination random value) is actually processed for each hold (first determination random value) to be subjected to prior determination (actually, the symbol variation game is actually performed). This is done taking into account the gaming state when it is started. That is, if the symbol variation game that is started by processing the hold (first determination random value) that is subject to prior determination is performed in the low-probability mode, the hold (first determination random value) is related. The prior determination is executed with reference to the aforementioned “low probability data table”. In addition, if the symbol variation game that is started by processing the hold (first determination random value) that is subject to prior determination is to be performed in the high probability mode, it relates to the hold (first determination random value). The prior determination is executed with reference to the aforementioned “high probability data table”.

  Here, the gaming machine 1 includes a first start winning device 17a and a second start winning device 17b as start winning devices, and a first special symbol corresponding to the first start winning device 17a (hereinafter referred to as "Special Figure 1"). And a second special symbol (hereinafter also referred to as “special figure 2”) corresponding to the second start winning device 17b. The first determination random number value based on the start winning to the first start winning device 17a and the second determination random number value based on the starting winning to the second start winning device 17b are stored in the latter case. Are preferentially processed (described later).

  Also, in FIG. 18 to FIG. 21, among the processes performed by the CPU 201, each process (hereinafter referred to as a process related to the special chart 1) that is executed when a game ball wins the first start winning device 17 a. ) And the same processing among the respective processing (hereinafter referred to as processing related to special figure 2) executed due to the winning of the game ball to the second start winning device 17b, the same number of steps (calculation) Number). Since the process with the same number of steps is basically the same process, one of “process related to special figure 1” and “process related to special figure 2” will be described in the following description. The description of the other may be omitted. In addition, “process for special figure 1” is distinguished by adding “a” in alphabet to “number of steps”, and “process for special figure 2” by adding “b” in alphabet to “number of steps”. There is.

  If it is determined that a game ball has won the second start winning device 17b (S301b; YES), the number of second special symbols corresponding to the second start winning device 17d (second hold number) is a predetermined number. It is determined whether the number is less than (in this embodiment, less than 4) (S302b). If it is determined in the process of S302b that the number is less than the predetermined number (S302b; YES), a second determination random number value (specific figure 2 determination random value) related to the second start winning device 17b is acquired (S303b). . The second determination random number value is stored in the above-described second determination random number value memory 202b, whereby the “first hold number” stored in the second hold number memory 202d is “+1”. Hereinafter, winning of a game ball in the second start winning device 17b may be referred to as “second start winning”.

  Here, as the second determination random number value acquired and stored in the process of S303b, (a) a jackpot lottery executed due to the second start winning prize (hereinafter referred to as “special figure 2 jackpot lottery”). ) Second random number value for determination of success / failure (hereinafter referred to as “special figure 2 big hit lottery random value”), (b) for determining the big hit symbol to be stopped and displayed on the second special symbol display section 62b. Reach display (reach effect) in the random symbol display (symbol variation effect) executed on the display screen 27a of the effect display device 27 (c) ) Reach random number value (special figure 1 reach random value) or the like.

  Following the process of S303b, the CPU 201 uses the second randomness determination random number value (special figure 2 big hit lottery random value) acquired in the process of S303b to make a prior determination (second special lottery lottery) in advance ( (Second pre-determination) is performed, and information indicating the result is stored in a second pre-determination result memory (not shown in FIG. 8) (S304b). Then, after the second start winning command is transmitted to the sub-control board 220 (S307b), the process proceeds to S308 in FIG. Here, as described above, the command at the time of the second start winning is a command indicating information that can specify the result of the second pre-determination, the second hold number after the start winning to the second start winning device 17b, and the like. . However, unlike the present embodiment, the command for specifying the second reserved number after the start winning to the second start winning device 17b and the command for specifying other information may be different commands.

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

  In the process of S308, as shown in FIG. 19, it is determined whether or not a big hit game is being executed (S308). Specifically, if the big hit game flag (see the process of S378 in FIG. 20) is set (set to ON), a positive determination is made in the process of S308. The big hit game flag is a flag indicating that the “big hit game execution means” is in operation.

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

  The “condition for starting the variable symbol display of the special symbol” is that either the “first hold number” or the “second hold number” is not “zero”. Then, the CPU 201 of this embodiment preferentially determines whether or not the “second hold number” is “zero” (S314b). That is, when the “second hold number” is not “zero”, the oldest second determination from the “second determination random value memory 202 b (see FIG. 8)” provided in the RAM 202 mounted on the main control board 200. The random number value for reading is read (S316b), and the determination process for the second special symbol (second determination process) is performed (S320b). The second determination random number value read in S316b is acquired in S303b, and includes a special figure 2 big hit lottery random value, a special figure 2 design determination random value, a special figure 2 reach random number value, and the like.

  In the second success / failure determination process (S320b), a process related to the second success / failure determination (a process related to the second big hit lottery) is performed. When the gaming mode of the gaming machine 1 is the high probability mode, the “high probability data table” is displayed. ”And“ the second winning / determining determination value read out in the process of S316b ”are performed, and“ winning determination (derivation of jackpot lottery result) ”is performed, and the gaming mode of the gaming machine 1 is the low probability mode (normal probability mode) If “”, the “win / fail determination (derivation of the big hit lottery result)” is performed using the “low probability data table” and the “second winning / failing determination value read in the process of S316b”.

  The CPU 201 executes a special figure 2 symbol variation start process (S500b) following the second win / fail determination process (S320b). In the special figure 2 symbol variation start process (S500b), as shown in FIG. 21, first, a variation setting process (S510, S540) and the like are performed based on the result of the success / failure determination process (S320b). That is, in the process of S502, when it is determined that the result of the success / failure determination process (S320) is “big hit” (S502; YES), the process proceeds to S510 and “big hit fluctuation setting process” is performed. In the jackpot variation setting process (S510), the symbol determination random number value acquired in the process of S303b (see FIG. 18) is read and the symbol (hit symbol) to be stopped and displayed on the second special symbol display unit 62b is set ( Process of setting (determining) a variation pattern by random lottery using a variation pattern table selected in consideration of the determined jackpot symbol aspect and the gaming state (game mode) of the gaming machine 1 (In other words, a process for determining a variation pattern).

  On the other hand, if it is determined in the process of S502 that the result of the success / failure determination process (S320b) is not “big hit” (S502; NO), the process proceeds to S540, and the “outside fluctuation setting process” is performed. In this outlier variation setting process (S540), the variation pattern is determined by random lottery using “a variation pattern table selected in consideration of the gaming state (gaming mode) of the gaming machine 1 and whether or not the reach effect is performed”. The process of setting (determining) is performed. Thereafter, a symbol determination random number value is acquired, and processing for setting a stop symbol is performed. Whether or not the reach effect is executed is determined based on the reach random value obtained by reading the reach random value obtained in the process of S303b (see FIG. 18).

  In this embodiment, the “variation shortening mode (time reduction mode)” refers to a state in which the variation time reduction function (time reduction function) is operating. In the game mode in which the open extension function is activated, the variable time shortening function (short time function) is activated. Therefore, in the description of this embodiment, the “shortening variation mode (short time mode)” may be read as “open extension mode”. it can. In addition, a large number of variation patterns (for example, 20 types, 50 types, 100 types) are stored in the variation pattern table selected in S510 or S540. When the result of the determination is “out”, the “variation time specified when the shortened variation mode is set” can be made shorter than the “variation time identified when the shortened variation mode is not set”. High nature. Further, in this embodiment, when the result of the determination is “out”, the number of reserved special symbols is considered, and the number of held is small (for example, when the number of held at the time of determining the variation pattern is “1”). For example, when a variation pattern that specifies a longer variation time is selected and the number of holdings is large (for example, when the number of holdings at the time of determining a variation pattern is “3” to “4”), a shorter variation time is set. There is a tendency that a specific variation pattern is selected. Also, the variation time specified by the variation pattern selected when it is determined that the reach display is not performed is compared with the variation time specified by the variation pattern selected when the reach display is determined. There is a tendency to be shortened. Each “variation pattern table” is set in advance in the ROM 203 mounted on the main control board 200.

  After the processing of S510 or S540, the CPU 201 starts the variation of the second special symbol (special symbol 2) in the second special symbol display unit 62b (S590), and causes the sub-control unit 200A (sub-control board 220) to change. A predetermined command (symbol variation start command) indicating the start of symbol variation is transmitted (S592). That is, the CPU 201 of the main control board 200 transmits a “variation pattern designation command (command for designating a fluctuation pattern)”, a “special symbol stop information designation command” and the like related to the second special symbol to the sub control board 220. . Furthermore, the CPU 201 subtracts “1” from the “number of reserved special symbols” related to the second special symbol, and a process of transmitting a command for specifying the number of reserved after subtraction to the sub-control board 220. (S595), the symbol variation start process (S500b) is terminated, the special symbol game process (S300) is terminated, and the process returns to the game control process of FIG.

  Here, the variation pattern designation command and the special symbol stop information designation command are output toward the sub-control board 220 together with the strobe signal, as shown in FIG. 7B. This strobe signal is connected to the interrupt terminal of the CPU 220a mounted on the sub-control board 220. When the strobe signal is input, the CPU 220a on the sub-control board 220 receives each designation signal immediately and receives the designation signal. Analyze the contents. Although detailed explanation is omitted, the variation pattern is determined in consideration of various conditions such as whether or not the reach effect is performed and whether or not the symbol for stopping and displaying the special symbol is a winning symbol (big hit symbol). If the variation pattern is known, the time for the special symbol to be variably displayed can be determined. In addition, if the special symbol stop information designation command is analyzed, it can be known whether the special symbol stops at the big hit symbol or the off symbol, and when it stops at the big hit symbol, it is known which of the big hit symbol is. it can.

  The CPU 220a mounted on the sub-control board 220 determines an effect mode on the effect display device 27 based on these pieces of information, and then outputs a pseudo-design display control signal to the effect display control board 222. Performs symbol change display and stop display. Further, based on the variation time (variation pattern designation command) of the special symbol, it is also determined whether or not to perform a so-called reach effect on the effect display device 27, and what kind of reach effect is to be used. Then, the sub-control board 220 controls the effect display control board 222, the amplifier board 224, the decoration drive board 226, and the like according to the contents of the effect thus determined, thereby performing the effect of the determined contents.

  Returning to FIG. 19, when the “second hold number” is “zero” (S314b; YES) and the “first hold number” is not “zero” (S314a; NO), the first determination random number value The oldest first determination random number value (special figure 1 determination random value) is read from the memory 202a (S316a), and the first success / failure determination process is performed (S320a). Then, after performing the special figure 1 symbol variation start process (S500a), the special symbol game process (S300) is terminated and the process returns to the game control process of FIG. Here, the first success / failure determination process performed as the process of S320a is also performed in the same manner as S320b, and the special figure 1 symbol variation start process (S500a) performed as the process of S500a is also performed as the process of S500b. Similar to the symbol variation start process (S500b), the process is performed according to FIG. That is, according to the flowchart shown in FIG. 21, the process of selecting (determining) the variation pattern of the first special symbol based on the result of the first success / failure determination process (S320a) or the first special symbol display unit 62a is stopped and displayed. After performing the process of selecting (determining) the symbol (S510, S540), the processes of S590, S592, and S595 are executed.

  Next, when it is determined that the first special symbol or the second special symbol is changing (S310; YES) in S310 of the special symbol game processing (S300) (see FIG. 19), the special symbol game processing (S300) is already special. The symbol variation pattern and the stop symbol are determined, and the special symbol variation is started. Therefore, it is determined whether or not the special symbol variation time has elapsed (S341). That is, since the variation time of the special symbol is determined in advance according to the variation pattern, it is determined whether a predetermined variation time has elapsed by setting a timer at the same time as the variation of the special symbol is started. If the variation time has not yet elapsed (S341; NO), the special symbol game process (S300) is terminated and the process returns to the game control process of FIG.

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

  If it is determined in the process of S350 that the special symbol stop display time has not elapsed (S350; NO), the special symbol game process (S300) is terminated as it is, and the process returns to the game control process of FIG. On the other hand, when the special symbol stop display time has elapsed (S350; YES), it is determined whether or not the stop display mode is a mode that represents a big hit (big hit symbol) (S352 in FIG. 20).

  When an affirmative determination is made in the processing of S352 in FIG. 20, the CPU 201 of the main control board 200 sets information indicating the current game progress in a buffer to be referred to at the end of the “big hit game” described later. (Memorize) (S354). Specifically, “type of big hit” and “game state flag state” are set (stored) (S354). Further, the specific area of the RAM 202 mounted on the main control board 200 functions as a buffer used in the process of S354. Here, the “gaming state flag” is a flag indicating “the gaming state of the gaming machine 1”, that is, “probability change flag”, “fluctuation shortening flag”, “open extension flag”, and the like. In the process of S354, Data indicating whether these flags are set to “ON” or “OFF”, that is, data indicating the current gaming state (gaming mode) is set. Further, the “probability change flag” is a flag indicating that the gaming mode (gaming state) of the gaming machine 1 is in a high probability mode (mode in which the probability changing means operates), and the “change shortening flag” is a game of the gaming machine 1. This is a flag indicating that the mode (game state) is in the variation shortening mode (the mode in which the execution time of the symbol variation effect display is likely to be shortened). Further, the “open extension flag” increases the release time of the “variable start winning device” such as the second start winning device 17b of the present embodiment when the gaming mode (gaming state) of the gaming machine 1 is the open extended mode (the second start winning device 17b of this embodiment). (Mode).

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

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

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

  That is, in the process of S380, it is determined whether or not the probability variation flag is set (set to ON) (S380). If it is not set (S380; NO), the process proceeds to S384 as it is and is set. If yes (S380; YES), after canceling the probability variation flag (set to OFF) (S382), the process proceeds to S384. Then, in the process of S384, it is determined whether or not the fluctuation shortening flag is set (set to ON). If it is not set (S384; NO), the special symbol game process (S300) is directly exited. Returning to the game control process of FIG. On the other hand, when it is determined in the process of S384 that the fluctuation shortening flag is set (set to ON) (S384; YES), after the fluctuation shortening flag and the open extension flag are canceled (set to OFF) ( S386, S387), the special symbol game process (S300) is exited, and the process returns to the game control process of FIG. In any case, when returning to the game control process of FIG. 16, a jackpot game process (S600 of FIG. 16) described later is started and the jackpot game is executed.

  When the jackpot game is ended, by referring to the above-mentioned “Big hit game end reference buffer (see S354 in FIG. 20)”, the jackpot symbol (hereinafter, “ Information on the type (ordinary jackpot symbol, probability variation jackpot symbol) is acquired, and processing for setting a game mode after the jackpot game is performed based on this information. In other words, when “this big hit symbol” is “ordinary big hit symbol”, processing for setting “100” in the variation shortening counter, processing for setting the variation shortening flag, and processing for setting the release extension flag And do. As a result, after the special game (the first jackpot game) related to the “normal jackpot” is finished, the special symbol is changed to “100 times” (until the value of the fluctuation shortening counter becomes zero). The extension function and the variable time reduction function are activated. However, when the next big hit is generated, the opening extension function and the fluctuation time shortening function stop operating. When the big hit game related to the normal big hit is finished, the CPU 201 mounted on the main control board 200 sends a mode designation command for designating that the gaming mode of the gaming machine 1 is the “low probability shortening variation mode” to the sub control board 220. Send to.

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

  Next, a process when a negative determination is made in the process of S352 of FIG. 20 will be described. That is, when the special symbol stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display unit 62a or the second special symbol display unit 62b is “out of symbol” (S352; NO), the fluctuation shortening flag is set (set to ON). It is determined whether or not (S398). If the fluctuation shortening flag is not set (set to OFF) (S398; YES), the special symbol game process (S300) is directly exited and the process returns to the game control process of FIG.

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

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

(6) Production control process (S900)
Next, an outline of “effect control processing (S900)” performed by the sub control unit 220A (the CPU 220a of the sub control board 220) in cooperation with the effect display control unit 222A will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 22 shows only main processes among the processes constituting the effect control process. In the effect control process (S900), main processes such as a hold occurrence process (S1000), a symbol variation effect process (S1100), an effect replacement process (S1200), and a big hit game effect process (S1800) are repeatedly executed. Further, since the time required for one round of processing in FIG. 22 is about 2 msec, these processes are repeatedly executed about every 2 msec. Hereinafter, description of the jackpot game effect process in the process shown in the flowchart of FIG. 22 is omitted.

a. Processing when hold occurs (S1000)
In the on-hold occurrence processing (S1000), as shown in FIG. 23, when the CPU 220a of the sub-control board 220 receives a start winning command (S1005; YES), information relating to the advance determination specified by the start winning command And information on the number of holds is stored (S1010). Specifically, when a start winning command (first start winning command) resulting from the start winning to the first start winning device 17a is received (S1005; YES), the “first preliminary determination result information” is set to the first. While storing in the preliminary determination result information memory 221b, the value of the first reservation number stored in the first reservation number information memory 223b is incremented by “+1” (see FIG. 8). When a start winning command (second start winning command) resulting from the start winning to the second start winning device 17b is received (S1005; YES), "second pre-determination result information" is set as the second pre-determination result. While storing in the information memory 222b, the value of the second reservation number stored in the second reservation number information memory 224b is incremented by “+1” (see FIG. 8).

  Following the process of S1010, the CPU 220a performs a process of additionally displaying an image related to the number of holds on the display screen 27a of the effect display device 27 (S1020). Specifically, when the first start winning command is received (S1005; YES), the display units (D1 to D4) in use (lighting display) in the first hold display area (D1, D2, D3, D4). ) Is incremented by 1 and the second start winning command is received (S1005; YES), the display section in use (lighted display) in the second hold display area (E1, E2, E3, E4) The number of (E1 to E4) is increased by 1 (see FIG. 3). And if CPU220a performs S1020 process, it will complete | finish processing (S1000) at the time of holding | maintenance generation | occurrence | production, and will return to the presentation control process (S900) shown in FIG.

b. Symbol variation effect processing (S1100)
In the symbol variation effect processing (S1100), as shown in FIG. 24, when the CPU 220a of the sub control board 220 receives a command at the time of symbol variation start (S1105; YES), the processing after S1110 is executed. Here, the commands received in the processing of S1105 are a variation pattern designation command and a special symbol stop information designation command.

  Based on the received “special symbol stop information designation command”, the sub-control unit 220A can determine the result of the determination (S320a, S320b) executed in the main control unit 200A. Then, if the result of the determination is wrong (S1110; NO), after performing the process of selecting and setting the effect pattern of “extracting symbol variation effect” based on the received variation pattern designation command. (S1140), the process proceeds to S1145. In the process of S1140, a specific execution mode of the display effect executed on the display screen 27a of the effect display device 27, whether or not the reach effect is executed, a reach effect mode when the reach effect is executed, and the like are determined. In addition, an effect mode related to effect elements (sound effect element, light emission effect element, movable effect element, etc.) other than the display effect element is also selected and set (S1140).

  On the other hand, when the result of the determination (S320a, S320b) is a big hit (S1110; YES), a hold determination (first hold determination) is performed (S1115). That is, when the symbol variation effect corresponding to the hit variation related to the first special symbol (hereinafter referred to as “first hit symbol variation effect”) is started, the CPU 220a of the sub control board 220 performs the first prior determination result information. Based on the first prior determination result information stored in the memory 221b, it is determined whether or not the hold is stored in the target hold storage means (the first determination random value memory 202a) (S1115). Further, when the symbol variation effect corresponding to the hit variation related to the second special symbol (hereinafter referred to as “second hit symbol variation effect”) is started, the CPU 220a of the sub control board 220 performs the second prior determination result information. Based on the second prior determination result information stored in the memory 222b, it is determined whether or not a hold is stored in the target hold storage means (second determination random value memory 202b) (S1115). Note that the process of S1115 constitutes a specific example of the process performed by the CPU 220a of the sub-control board 220 as the “first hold determination unit”.

  If it is determined by the hold determination (first hold determination) that the hold is stored in the hold storage means (the first determination random value memory 202a and the second determination random value memory 202b) (S1120; YES), reception is performed. Based on the changed pattern designating command, after selecting and setting the effect pattern for executing the special effect among the effect patterns of the “big hit symbol change effect” (S1125), the process proceeds to S1145. To do.

  Further, when it is determined by the hold determination (first hold determination) that the hold storage means (the first determination random value memory 202a and the second determination random value memory 202b) has not been stored (S1120; NO), the reception is performed. On the basis of the changed pattern designation command, a process for selecting and executing a normal effect from among the effect patterns for “big symbol change effect” is set (S1130), and a hold redetermination flag is set (ON). After performing the setting (S1135), the process proceeds to S1145. Here, the “hold re-determination flag” is a flag indicating that the hold determination (second hold determination) is performed again during the execution of the symbol variation effect based on the effect pattern of the normal effect. In other words, in this embodiment, when the result of the first hold determination is that there is no hit hold (when no hit hold exists at the start of hit fluctuation), the hold determination (second hold determination) is performed again. It has become. In the processing of S1125 and S1130, a specific execution mode of display effects executed on the display screen 27a, a specific mode of reach display, and the like are determined. In addition, an effect mode related to effect elements (sound effect element, light emission effect element, movable effect element, etc.) other than the display effect element is also selected and set (S1125, S1130).

  In the process of S1145, the CPU 220a performs a process of setting a stop symbol (design to be confirmed) of the pseudo symbol (S1145). In other words, in the processing of S1145 executed through the processing of S1125 or S1135, a specific mode of “pseudo symbol for definite display of big hit” is selected and set as “big hit stop symbol”, and is executed through the processing of S1140. In the process of S1145, a specific mode of “pseudo symbol for confirming and displaying the removal” is selected and set as the “stopping stop symbol”.

  The CPU 220a executes the process of S1150 following the process of S1145. In the process of S1150, a command (effect display detail command) that designates the “effect pattern” determined in the process of S1125, S1130, or S1140 and the “pseudo symbol stop pattern” determined in the process of S1145. 222A (the effect display control board 222) is transmitted, and the effect display device 27 starts to display the variation display of effect symbols such as pseudo symbols and background symbols (S1150). That is, the symbol variation effect on the display screen 27a of the effect display device 27 is started.

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

c. Production replacement process (S1200)
In the effect replacement process (S1200), as shown in FIG. 25, when the CPU 220a of the sub-control board 220 determines that the hold redetermination flag is set (set to ON) (S1205; YES), S1210 and subsequent steps. Move on to processing. As described above, the hold redetermination flag is a flag indicating that the symbol variation effect that can execute the second hold determination is being executed, and the symbol variation effect being executed (the symbol variation effect for the big hit) is normal. In the case of production, that is, when the determination result that the winning hold is not stored in the first hold determination is obtained (set to ON) (see the process of S1135 in FIG. 24).

  In the process of S1210, it is determined whether or not it is the execution timing of “hold re-determination”, that is, whether or not it is the execution timing of “second hold determination” (S1210). Here, in the present embodiment, the execution timing of the “second hold determination” is set to reach display time (just before the development effect starts) as described above. That is, in the present embodiment, as the execution timing of the “hold re-determination (second hold determination)”, the timing of switching the content of the effect (timing to switch from the first effect to the second effect) is exemplified. The execution timing of the hold re-determination (second hold determination) can be exemplified in addition to the timing shown in the present embodiment. Specifically, “a predetermined time (from the start of the symbol variation effect ( For example, “when 10 seconds) has passed”, “when the remaining time of the symbol variation effect has reached a predetermined time (for example, 10 seconds)”, and the like.

  Here, in the process of S1215, when the first winning symbol variation effect is being executed, the CPU 220a of the sub control board 220 is based on the first preliminary determination result information stored in the first preliminary determination result information memory 221b. Then, it is determined whether or not the hold is stored in the target hold storage means (first determination random value memory 202a) (S1215). In addition, when the second per symbol variation effect is being executed, the CPU 220a of the sub control board 220 is a target holding storage based on the second prior determination result information stored in the second prior determination result information memory 222b. It is determined whether a hold is stored in the means (second determination random value memory 202b) (S1215). Note that the process of S1215 constitutes a specific example of the process performed by the CPU 220a of the sub-control board 220 as the “second hold determination unit”.

  By the way, immediately after the start of the symbol variation effect (normal effect), the execution timing of “hold re-determination” has not yet been reached, and therefore, after the negative determination of the process of S1210, the effect replacement process (S1200). Is finished, and the process returns to the effect control process (S900) shown in FIG. When the CPU 220a determines that the execution timing of the hold re-determination (second hold determination) has arrived while repeatedly performing the effect control process (S900) of FIG. 22 (S1210; YES), the hold re-determination (second) After executing the hold determination (S1215), the hold redetermination flag is canceled (set to OFF) (S1220).

  Then, by the hold re-determination (second hold determination), the hold storage means (when the first per symbol variation effect is being executed, the first determination random value memory 202a, the second per symbol variation effect is being executed) In this case, if it is determined that no hold is stored in the second determination random value memory 202b) (S1225; NO), the CPU 220a selects / sets the “big-hit symbol variation effect for processing in S1130”. The effect pattern (for performing the normal effect) "is used as it is to end the ongoing symbol variation effect. In this embodiment, when the hold re-determination (second hold determination) is executed once (S1215), the hold re-determination flag is canceled (set to OFF) (S1220). This is because (determination) is not further executed (see the processing in S1205 in FIG. 25).

  On the other hand, the hold storage means (when the first per symbol variation effect is being executed by the hold re-determination (second hold determination), the first determination random value memory 202a and the second per symbol variation effect are being executed. In this case, when it is determined that the hold is stored in the second determination random value memory 202b) (S1225; YES), the CPU 220a replaces the ongoing symbol variation effect (normal effect) with the special effect. After performing the process (S1230), the effect replacement process (S1200) is terminated.

(7) Effects of the embodiment In the gaming machine 1, the first hold determination is made at the start of the hit variation. As a result, when the hit hold exists, there is a possibility that the hold is included in the hold. An effect suggesting that there is a certain effect (reservation consecutive resort). Further, as a result of the first hold determination, even if there is no hit hold, a hold prefetch determination (second hold determination) is performed again during the hit fluctuation, and as a result, it is determined that a hit hold exists. Then, it becomes possible to execute the “holding consecutive villa production”.

  In other words, the gaming machine 1 is not only in the case where there is a hit hold at the start of the fluctuation, but also in the case where the hit hold does not exist at the start of the change and a hit hold occurs after the change starts. “Holding Renso production (special production)” can be executed. That is, there is no hit hold at the start of the change, but even if a hold hold occurs after the start of change, the occurrence of the hit hold can be reflected in the symbol variation effect, so the generation of the reserved resort effect The possibility can be increased, and this reserved resort production can be performed efficiently and effectively. Further, by increasing the possibility of occurrence of the reserved consecutive resort effect, it is possible to appeal to the player the game characteristics associated with the generation of the reserved consecutive resort effect. Therefore, according to this gaming machine 1, it is possible to enhance the gaming interest while utilizing the hold prefetching function.

  Next, the gaming machine according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. The gaming machine according to the second embodiment has a point that the hold re-determination (second hold determination) can be executed a plurality of times within a replaceable period, and a determination result that there is a hit hold by the hold re-determination. When obtained, the point that the remaining effects are replaced with special effects from that time is different from the gaming machine of the first embodiment. Hereinafter, the gaming machine according to the second embodiment will be described focusing on differences from the gaming machine according to the first embodiment.

  Here, in the second embodiment, the “replaceable period” is assumed to be during execution of the first effect (the entire period during which the first effect is being executed), and other periods are exemplified as this “replaceable period”. You can also. For example, “a period from the time when a certain amount of time has elapsed after the start of the symbol variation effect until the time when the reach display is made” or “after the first predetermined time has elapsed after the symbol variation effect has been started, For example, “a period until reaching a point in time when a predetermined time has elapsed (provided that it is a point in time before reach display)” or the like can be exemplified.

  Hereinafter, the feature of “winning symbol variation effect” according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 26 to 28. The specific example 2 shown in FIGS. 12 and 13 can also be applied to the second embodiment as it is.

  Specific example 4 shown in FIG. 26 shows a case where the symbol variation game and the symbol variation effect are started by digesting the earliest reservation when the second number of reservations is “2”. Also in the specific example 4, the earliest hold is “hit hold” and the hold (next hold) processed next to the earliest hold is “out hold”.

  In this specific example 4, when the start timing of the variation related to the earliest hold comes, the second special symbol display unit 62b starts the hit variation using the second special symbol, and the effect display device 27 performs the symbol variation effect. To start. In this case, the CPU 220a of the sub-control board 220 performs the first hold determination at the timing of starting the symbol variation effect (symbol variation game). In the fourth specific example, as described above, “next hold” is “excluded”. Since it is “hold”, the first hold determination obtains a determination result indicating that the hold is not stored by hitting “hold storage means”. For this reason, the symbol variation effect of the specific example 4 is executed as a “normal effect”.

  This specific example 4 shows a case in which two “release hold” occur before and after the “replaceable period (during the first production period)”. In this case, a hold re-determination (second hold determination) is performed when each “release hold” occurs. However, since any hold generated before or after that is “release hold”, any hold re- Also in the determination, a determination result indicating that the hold is not stored because of the “hold storage means” is obtained. For this reason, in the specific example 4, after performing the hold re-determination twice, the symbol variation effect until the reach display is performed and the development effect (second effect) started after the reach display is the normal effect. Executed. That is, the development effect (second effect) is executed while reproducing the “normal effect movie”. This development effect (second effect) is a battle effect whose content is that a “friend character” and a “weak enemy character” perform a battle, and immediately before the end of the symbol variation effect, the “friendly character” becomes a “weak enemy”. A display indicating that the character is defeated is displayed. As a result, the player is informed that the pending hit cannot be confirmed even by the hold re-determination. Thereafter, the result of the determination is determined and the symbol variation effect according to the specific example 4 is completed.

  Specific example 5 shown in FIG. 27 also shows a case in which the symbol variation game and the symbol variation effect are started by digesting the earliest reservation when the second number of reservations is “2”. In the specific example 5 as well, the earliest hold is “hit hold”, and the hold (next hold) to be processed next to the earliest hold is “off hold”.

  Also in this specific example 5, when the start timing of the variation related to the earliest hold comes, the second special symbol display unit 62b starts the hit variation using the second special symbol, and the effect display device 27 performs the symbol variation effect. Starts as “normal production”. This specific example 5 shows a case in which “off hold” and “hit hold” occur in this order during the “replaceable period (during the first production period)”. In this case, the hold re-determination (second hold determination) is performed when “off hold” occurs and when “hit hold” occurs. Then, a determination result that the hit hold is stored in the “hold storage means” is obtained by the hold re-determination when the “hold hold” occurs.

  In this specific example 5, as shown in FIG. 27, a case is shown in which the symbol variation effect is replaced with a special effect before reach display is started. For this reason, in this specific example 5, the development effect (second effect) is started when a predetermined time elapses after being replaced with the special effect. This development effect (second effect) is a battle effect whose content is that a “friend character” and a “strong enemy character” perform a battle. Just before the end of the symbol variation effect, the “ally character” becomes a “strong enemy character”. Is displayed to indicate that they will win. Thereby, the player is informed that the pending hit can be confirmed by the hold re-determination (second hold determination). Thereafter, the result of the determination is determined and the symbol variation effect according to the specific example 5 is completed. For this reason, the symbol variation effect after the occurrence of “hit hold” is executed in a state where the special effect is replaced. In other words, in the second embodiment, when it is determined that a hit has occurred during the execution of the first effect, not only the development effect (second effect) started after the reach display but also “performs the second hold determination”. After that, the “design variation effect until reach display” is executed in a state where the effect is replaced with the special effect.

  In Specific Example 6 shown in FIGS. 28 and 29, the process proceeds in the same manner as in Specific Example 4 until the “replaceable period (first effect period)” elapses. For this reason, also in the specific example 6, since only the “off hold” occurs between the start of the symbol change effect and the end of the replaceable period, the symbol change effect (after the reach display) (after reach display) The second effect) is executed with the normal effect (d1 to d4 in FIG. 29).

  However, this specific example 6 is different from the specific example 4 in that it shows a case in which “disengagement hold” and “hit hold” occur after the replacement possible period (after reach display). In this specific example 6, in the case where “release hold” occurs after the replaceable period has elapsed (after reach display), even after execution of hold re-determination (third hold determination) in which occurrence of the release hold has been confirmed. The ongoing symbol variation effect (normal effect) is continued without change (d5 in FIG. 29), but if “hit on hold” occurs, the hold replay on which the occurrence of hold on is confirmed. After execution of the determination (third hold determination), the ongoing symbol variation effect (normal effect) is changed (d6 in FIG. 29). Specifically, “a character indicating an assistant” (hereinafter referred to as an assistant character) of “a friend character” appears, and the subsequent symbol variation effect (normal effect) is continued. Then, immediately before the end of the symbol variation effect, a display indicating that the “friend character” and the “assistant character” win the “weak enemy character” (d7 in FIG. 29). As a result, the player is informed that the pending hit has been confirmed after the replaceable period has elapsed (after the reach display). Thereafter, the result of the determination of success / failure is displayed, and the symbol variation effect according to the specific example 6 is completed (d8 in FIG. 29).

  Here, the gaming machine of the second embodiment is the same as the gaming machine 1 of the first embodiment except that a part of “control processing (game control processing of FIG. 16, presentation control processing of FIG. 22)” is different. That is, it is the same as the gaming machine 1 of the first embodiment except that the symbol variation effect process (S1100) is executed according to FIG. 30 and the effect replacement process (S1200) is executed according to FIG. Next, the symbol variation effect process (S1100) of the second embodiment and the effect replacement process (S1200) of the second embodiment will be described.

  As shown in FIGS. 30 and 24, in the symbol variation effect process (FIG. 30) of the second embodiment, the “S1135 process” is not executed and the processes of S1162 and S1164 are added. This is different from the symbol variation effect process (FIG. 24) of Example 1. That is, as shown in FIG. 30, in the symbol variation effect processing of the second embodiment, after the processing of S1130, the processing of S1145 is performed without performing the S1135 processing. Different from FIG. In the symbol variation effect process of the second embodiment, when the sub-control unit 220A determines that the symbol stop command transmitted from the main control unit 200A (main control board 200) has been received (S1160; YES), the replaced flag Is determined to be released (set to OFF) (S1162). If released (set to OFF) (S1162; YES), the process directly proceeds to S1165.

  On the other hand, if the replaced flag is set (set to ON) (S1162; NO), the process of releasing the replaced flag (set to OFF) is performed (S1164), and then the process proceeds to S1165. To do. Here, the replacement flag is a flag indicating that “effect replacement” has been performed (see S1274 and S1276 in FIG. 31).

  In the production replacement process (S1200) of the second embodiment, as shown in FIG. 31, when the CPU 220a of the sub control board 220 determines that the big hit is fluctuating (S1250; YES), the process proceeds to the processes after S1255. . Here, “during big hit fluctuation” shown in S1250 means that after the process of S1125 or S1130 of FIG. 30 and the process of S1145 of FIG. This is a case where this symbol variation effect (winning symbol variation effect) is being executed.

  In the process of S1255, it is determined whether or not a symbol variation effect (normal effect) according to the normal effect pattern is being executed. If the symbol variation effect (special effect) according to the special effect pattern is being executed (S1255; NO), the effect replacement process (S1200) is terminated. In this case, the symbol variation effect (special effect) is continued according to the effect pattern (special effect pattern) selected and set according to the processing of S1125 of FIG.

  On the other hand, when the symbol variation effect (normal effect) according to the normal effect pattern is being executed (S1255; YES), it is determined whether or not it is within the replaceable period (S1260). If it is within the replaceable period (S1260; YES), it is determined whether or not the replaced flag is released (set to OFF) (S1265), and the replaced flag is set (set to ON). If it is (S1265; NO), the production replacement process (S1200) is terminated. That is, if the effect replacement has already been performed, the effect replacement process (S1200) is ended as it is.

  On the other hand, if the replaced flag is released (set to OFF) (S1265; YES), a hold re-determination (second hold determination) is executed (S1270). Then, by this hold re-determination (second hold determination), the hold storage means (if the first per symbol variation effect is being executed, the first determination random value memory 202a, the second per symbol variation effect is being executed) In some cases, if it is determined that the hold is stored in the second determination random value memory 202b) (S1272; YES), the CPU 220a replaces the ongoing symbol variation effect (normal effect) with the special effect. After performing the process (S1274) and the process (S1276) for setting the replaced flag (set to ON), the effect replacement process (S1200) is terminated.

  Further, by this hold re-determination (second hold determination), the hold storage means (when the first per symbol variation effect is being executed, the first determination random value memory 202a, the second per symbol variation effect is being executed) In some cases, if it is determined that the hold is not stored in the second determination random value memory 202b) (S1272; YES), the CPU 220a once ends the effect replacement process (S1200), and FIG. It returns to the production control process (S900) shown. Then, as long as the replaceable period continues and the replaced flag is canceled (set to OFF), the CPU 220a performs the hold re-determination (second hold determination) every time the effect replacement process (S1200) is activated. Executed.

  While the symbol variation effect (normal effect) according to the normal effect pattern is being executed (the effect is not replaced) and the replaceable period has elapsed (S1260; NO), every time a start winning command is received (S1280; YES), the processing after S1282 is executed. That is, based on the received start winning command, it is determined whether or not a hit hold has occurred, that is, whether or not the newly generated hold is a “push hold” (S1282), and it is determined that a hit hold has occurred (S1282). ; YES), after performing the process of changing the symbol variation effect (normal effect) being executed (S1284), the effect replacement process (S1200) is terminated, and the process returns to the effect control process (S900) shown in FIG. . Then, the processing after S1280 can be executed until the symbol variation effect (normal effect) ends. Moreover, if the positive determination of S1282 is obtained a plurality of times, a change is added a plurality of times to the symbol variation effect being executed (normal effect). The process of S1282 constitutes a specific example of “third hold determination means”, and the process of S1284 constitutes a specific example of “effect changing means”.

  According to the second embodiment, the following effects can be obtained in addition to the effects of the first embodiment. That is, in Example 2, if the replacement of the effect is not performed, the second hold determination is executed every time the hold occurs as long as the replaceable period continues. For this reason, the player's expectation for the recreational resort can be maintained for a long time (a time limit for the replaceable period), and the gaming interest can be further enhanced.

  In addition, in the gaming machine of the second embodiment, when the normal effect is being executed and the reserved hit is confirmed within the replaceable period, the special effect (for example, battle battle) that greatly changes the effect content is confirmed. A major change such as changing the opponent and winning or losing, or changing the production itself is started. In addition, when the normal production is being executed and the hit hold is confirmed after the replaceable period has elapsed (third hold determination), the character is changed to a normal production with a small change (for example, while maintaining the background specific to the normal production). A small change to the extent that the For this reason, even if the development effect has been started (even if the replaceable period has already passed), the player expects to be informed of the “renso” notification until the symbol variation effect is completed. I will face the design variation production while holding.

  Next, specific example 7 shown in FIG. 32 will be described. This specific example 7 constitutes a modification of the second embodiment (hereinafter referred to as “variation 1”), and the second embodiment is that a part of the period during which the first effect is performed is a replaceable period. And different. In other words, the replaceable period of Modification 1 is “a period from the time when a predetermined time (for example, 5 seconds) has elapsed after the start of the design variation effect to the time when reach display is performed”.

  The first modification shows a case where the symbol variation game and the symbol variation effect are started by digesting the earliest reservation when the second number of reservations is “2”. Also in the first modification, the first hold is “hit hold”, and the hold (next hold) processed next to the first hold is “out hold”.

  Also in the modified example 1, when the start timing of the fluctuation related to the earliest hold comes, the second special symbol display unit 62b starts the hit fluctuation using the second special symbol, and the effect display device 27 performs the symbol fluctuation effect. Start as “normal production”. In the first modification example, “before the start of the replaceable period” occurs, “hit hold” occurs, and the second hold determination for this “hit hold” is performed at the timing of starting the “replaceable period”. To do. Then, a determination result indicating that the hold is stored in the “hold storage means” is obtained by the second hold determination. For this reason, the subsequent symbol variation effect is executed in a state where it is replaced with a special effect. That is, it is replaced with a special effect at the timing of starting the “replaceable period”.

  Then, after the replacement with the special effect, when a predetermined time elapses (when the replaceable period ends), the development effect (second effect) is started. This development effect (second effect) is a battle effect whose content is that a “friend character” and a “strong enemy character” perform a battle. Just before the end of the symbol variation effect, the “ally character” becomes a “strong enemy character”. Is displayed to indicate that they will win. Thereby, the player is notified that the on-hold hit can be confirmed by the second hold determination. Thereafter, the result of the determination of success / failure is displayed, and the symbol variation effect according to Modification 1 is completed.

  As described above, in the first modification, when “hit hold” occurs before the start of the replaceable period, the second hold determination is performed after the start timing of the replaceable period, and the symbol variation effect is produced as a special effect. It is supposed to be replaced. Although illustration is omitted, the case where “hit hold” occurs during the replaceable period and the case where “hit hold” occurs after the replaceable period elapses are handled in the same manner as in the second embodiment. The same effects as those of the second embodiment can be obtained by the first modification.

  Note that, in the first modification, when “hit on hold” occurs before the start of the replaceable period, the second hold determination is performed after the start timing of the replaceable period, and the symbol variation effect is replaced with the special effect. Although illustrated as an example, if “hit on hold” occurs before the start of the replaceable period, processing may be performed in the same manner as when “hit on hold” occurs after the start of the replaceable period. That is, when the “hit hold” occurs, the ongoing symbol variation effect (normal effect) may be changed. In this case, if a “pending hold” occurs during the replaceable period, the ongoing symbol variation effect (normal effect) may be replaced with a special effect, or the change may be made without replacing with a special effect. The added symbol variation effect (normal effect) may be continued.

  The gaming machine of the third embodiment is different from the gaming machine of the first embodiment in that the presentation is changed even when the symbol variation production is executed as a special production from the beginning, but with respect to other points, The same as in the first embodiment. The third embodiment is the same as the first embodiment except that FIG. 33 is added and that FIG. 34 is used instead of FIG. For this reason, except for FIG. 24, the drawings applicable to the first embodiment and the description in the specification can be applied to the third embodiment as they are.

  Also in the specific example 8 shown in FIG. 33, when the start timing of the fluctuation related to the earliest hold comes, the second special symbol display unit 62b starts the hit fluctuation using the second special symbol, and the effect display device 27 The symbol variation effect is started (e1). In this case as well, the CPU 220a of the sub-control board 220 performs the first hold determination at the timing of starting the symbol change effect (symbol change game), but the hold is stored in the “hold storage means” by the first hold determination. A determination result is obtained. For this reason, the symbol variation effect of the specific example 8 is started as a “special effect”, and “a friend character” and “strong enemy character” appear on the display screen 27 a of the effect display device 27.

  In this specific example 8, it is assumed that a “hit hold” occurs when a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the symbol variation effect (for example, when 5 seconds have elapsed) (e2). In this case, when the reach display is executed, the CPU 220a of the sub control board 220 performs the second hold determination (hold re-determination), and obtains a determination result indicating that the hold is stored by hitting the “hold storage means” ( e3). Then, the development effect (fourth effect) started after the reach display is performed in a state where the special effect that has been executed is replaced with “another special effect” (e4). This “other special effect” is a battle effect performed while changing the “enemy character” to a “stronger enemy character” (hereinafter referred to as “the strongest enemy character”). This development effect (fourth effect) is executed while reproducing the “effect image for the second special effect” (e5).

  This development effect (fourth effect) is a battle effect whose content is that the “friend character” and the “strongest enemy character” perform a battle, and immediately before the end of the symbol variation effect, the “ally character” becomes the “strongest enemy”. A display indicating that the character is won is displayed (e6). Thereby, it is notified to the player that two or more holding hits can be confirmed by the second holding determination. Thereafter, the result of the determination is determined and the symbol variation effect according to the specific example 8 is completed (e7).

  The symbol variation effect process (S1100) of the third embodiment is performed in accordance with FIG. 34, but the symbol variation effect processing (S1100) is added with the process of S1126. ) Is different. In other words, in the symbol variation effect process (S1100) of the third embodiment, as shown in FIG. 34, the first storage determination (S1115 when the first per symbol variation effect is being executed) is executed by the first hold determination (S1115). Even when the determination random number memory 202a and the second per symbol variation effect are being executed, the second determination random value memory 202b) determines that the hit is stored (S1120; YES), After performing the process of S1125, after performing the process (S1126) of setting the hold redetermination flag (set to ON) (S1126), the process shifts to the process of S1145, which is different from the symbol variation effect process (FIG. 24) of the first embodiment. .

  According to the third embodiment, the following effects can be obtained in addition to the effects of the second embodiment. In other words, according to the third embodiment, by replacing the special effect with another special effect, it is notified that there is a possibility that a plurality of recreational villas will be executed, so that the game entertainment can be further improved. . Although the third embodiment is a modification of the first embodiment, the third embodiment may be a modification of the second embodiment.

  The fourth embodiment is different from the first embodiment in that a so-called “gase effect” is added. That is, the point that FIG. 35 is added is different from the first embodiment, but the other points are the same as the first embodiment. Further, although the fourth embodiment will be described as a modification of the first embodiment, the fourth embodiment may be a modification of the second or third embodiment.

  Specific example 9 shown in FIG. 35 also shows a case in which the symbol change game and the symbol change effect are started by digesting the earliest hold when the second hold number is “3”. In the specific example 9 as well, the earliest hold is “hit hold” and the next hold and the next hold are “off hold”.

  Also in the specific example 9, when the start timing of the fluctuation related to the earliest hold comes, the second special symbol display unit 62b starts the hit fluctuation using the second special symbol, and the effect display device 27 performs the symbol fluctuation effect. Start (f1). In this case, the CPU 220a of the sub-control board 220 performs the first hold determination at the timing of starting the symbol change effect (symbol change game), and the hold is stored in the “hold storage means” by the first hold determination. A determination result indicating that there is not is obtained.

  For this reason, the symbol variation effect of the specific example 9 is started as “normal effect”, and “friend character” and “weak enemy character” appear on the display screen 27 a of the effect display device 27. In this specific example 9, it is assumed that “delayed hold” has occurred when a predetermined time has elapsed from the start of the symbol variation effect (for example, when 5 seconds have elapsed) (f2). Thereafter, when the end timing of the first effect arrives, reach display is performed in the pseudo symbol display area 27b (f3). At this time, the CPU 220a of the sub-control board 220 performs the second hold determination. However, in this specific example 9, since “hit hold” has not occurred after the start of the symbol variation effect, the second hold determination causes “hold storage”. A determination result indicating that the hold is not stored in “means” is obtained.

  However, in the specific example 9, the development effect (second effect) started after the reach display is executed in a state where it is replaced with the special effect (f4). This development effect (second effect) is a battle effect whose content is that a “friend character” and a “strong enemy character” perform a battle. Just before the end of the symbol variation effect, the “ally character” becomes a “strong enemy character”. Is displayed (f5, f6). Thereby, the player is notified that the on-hold hit cannot be confirmed by the second hold determination. Thereafter, the result of the determination is determined and the symbol variation effect according to the specific example 9 is completed (f7).

  According to the fourth embodiment, the following effects can be obtained in addition to the effects of the first embodiment. In other words, in the gaming machine of the fourth embodiment, even though there is no winning hold, the effect content of the symbol variation effect being executed is switched to the content of the special effect. In other words, the case where the notification of the villa is true) and the case where there is no winning hold even if the special performance occurs (that is, the case where the notification of the villa is false) may alternatively occur. it can. That is, “replacement with special effects” and “confirmed renso” are not “equal”, and the range of games can be expanded, so that the game entertainment can be further improved.

  The fifth embodiment constitutes a modification of the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 36, the fifth embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the contents of the “first production” are shared in the normal production and the special production. . In addition, although Example 5 was made into the modification of Example 1, Example 5 can also be made into any modification of Examples 2-4.

  In the specific example 10 shown in FIG. 36, when any one of the “normal effect” and the “special effect” is started, the display screen 27a of the effect display device 27 displays “friend character”, “weak enemy character”, “Strong enemy character” is displayed (g1). Then, when a predetermined time has elapsed from the start of the symbol variation effect (for example, when 5 seconds have elapsed), “pending” occurs (g2), and then when the end timing of the first effect arrives, a pseudo symbol display Reach is displayed in the area 27b (f3).

  When this reach display is made, the second hold determination (hold re-determination) is executed, and when the determination result that the hold is not stored is obtained by the second hold determination, the development effect is obtained. The (second effect) is executed as a battle effect whose content is that the “friend character” and the “weak enemy character” perform a battle (g4). Further, when the second hold determination obtains a determination result indicating that the hold is stored in the “hold storage means”, the development effect (second effect) is battled between the “friend character” and the “strong enemy character”. This is executed as a battle effect with the contents (h4).

  According to the fifth embodiment, the following effects can be obtained in addition to the same effects as the first embodiment. That is, according to the fifth embodiment, during execution of the first effect, it is difficult to determine whether the first effect is being executed as a normal effect or as a special effect. Will face the first stage of production while imagining. For this reason, according to the fifth embodiment, it is possible to further enhance the gaming interest. In addition, since the first effect for the normal effect and the first effect for the special effect are shared, it is not necessary to separately hold data for executing both the first effects. The limited hardware resources (especially the storage area) can be prevented from being wasted, and the hardware resources (especially the storage area) can be effectively used to enhance the game performance. .

  The embodiment of the present invention has been described above, but the present invention is not limited to this, and is limited to the description for specifying the present invention in the scope of the claims unless departing from the scope of the present invention. However, it is possible to appropriately add an improvement based on the knowledge that a person skilled in the art normally has, and to the extent that a person skilled in the art can easily replace them.

  That is, the “winning symbol variation effect” of each example is sufficiently long (for example, 20 seconds or more) to perform the “change of effect” uniformly. However, as the fluctuation pattern for specifying the fluctuation time of the hit fluctuation, the “specific fluctuation pattern” that specifies an execution time that is long enough for “replacement of production” and the “replacement of production” are not acceptable. A “non-specific variation pattern” that specifies a sufficiently long execution time may alternatively be selected. In this case, the modification shown in FIG. 37 may be added to FIG. 24, FIG. 30, or FIG.

  In other words, in the symbol variation effect processing (S1100) shown in FIG. 24, FIG. 30, or FIG. 34, the sub-control unit 220A determines whether or not the main control unit 200A has executed based on the received “special symbol stop information designation command”. When it is determined that the result of (S320a, S320b) is a big hit (S1110; YES), it is determined whether or not a specific variation pattern is designated as the variation pattern of the current symbol variation game (S1111). If a specific variation pattern is specified (S1111; YES), the process proceeds to S1115 and subsequent steps. If a non-specific variation pattern is specified (S1111; NO), the symbol variation for jackpot After selecting and setting a non-specific effect to be performed among the effect patterns of the effect (S1112), the process proceeds to S1145. Here, the non-specific effect is a symbol variation effect with no possibility of “replacement of effect”. Also by this modification, the same effect as each Example can be acquired.

  In each embodiment, the main control unit 200A performs pre-determination (hold prefetching), transmits data indicating the pre-determination result (pre-determination result information) to the sub-control unit 220A, and the sub-control unit 220A An example of determining whether or not a hold is stored in the hold storage unit based on the above is illustrated. However, the main control unit 200A transmits data (determination random value information) for specifying a determination random value (first determination random value, second determination random value) to the sub-control unit 220A, and the sub-control unit 220A However, it is also possible to make a prior determination using this data (determination random value information) and determine whether or not the hold is stored in the hold storage means.

  Further, in each embodiment, the CPU 220a of the sub control board 220 performs the first hold determination and the second hold determination according to the type of the special symbol (first special symbol, second special symbol) for which the hit fluctuation starts. The prior determination result information memories to be referred to (the first prior determination result information memory 221b and the second prior determination result information memory 222b) were different. Instead, the first pre-determination result information memory 221b and the second pre-determination result information memory 222b both at the start of the hit fluctuation related to the first special symbol and at the start of the hit fluctuation related to the second special symbol. A modification example in which whether or not a hold is stored in the hold storage means (second determination random value memory 202b, first determination random value memory 202a) is determined (first hold determination) by referring to FIG. It can also be illustrated. Similarly, by referring to the first pre-determination result information memory 221b and the second pre-determination result information memory 222b both during the hit variation according to the first special symbol and during the hit variation according to the second special symbol, A modification may be exemplified in which whether or not a hold is stored in the hold storage means (second determination random value memory 202b, first determination random value memory 202a) is determined (second hold determination). In these cases, both the first prior determination result information memory 221b and the second prior determination result information memory 222b in the hold determination (first hold determination, second hold determination) regardless of the type of the special symbol for which the hit variation is executed. Therefore, it is possible to further increase the possibility of producing the reserved consecutive villa production. In particular, these modified examples can be suitably applied to an aspect in which suspension is processed in the order of storage without performing priority fluctuation of the second special symbol.

  Further, in each of the embodiments, (a) by displaying two of the “friend character” and “strong enemy character” on the display screen 27a, there is a possibility that “holding may be included in the holding” (B) Displaying two of the “friend character” and “weak enemy character” on the display screen 27a, there is a possibility that “holding is included in the holding” "None" was suggested (normal production). However, the method of suggesting “possibility that a hold is included in the hold” is not limited to that shown in each embodiment, and for example, according to “the difference in the background color displayed on the display screen 27a” This may indicate the “presence / absence of possibility” (“red” when there is a possibility, “blue” when there is no possibility, etc.). In addition, the presence / absence of “possibility” may be suggested by the presence / absence of the display of “live-action video” (eg, the live-action video is displayed only when there is a possibility). Accordingly, the “presence / absence of possibility” may be suggested.

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

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

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

1; gaming machine (ball game machine),
2; outer frame,
10: Game board,
11: Game area,
17a; first start winning device,
17b; second start winning device,
27; production display device (production means),
27a; display screen,
31; Grand prize-winning device,
62a; first special symbol display section,
62b; second special symbol display section,
200A; main control unit (win / fail judgment means, symbol variation game execution means, jackpot game execution means, hold storage means),
220A; sub-control unit (design variation effect executing means, first hold determining means, second hold determining means, third hold determining means, effect replacing means).

Claims (1)

Based on the game ball entering the starting port, the special symbol display means variably displays the special symbol until a predetermined fluctuation time elapses, and shows the result of winning or losing as the variation display ends. A symbol variation game execution means for executing
A jackpot game execution means for executing a jackpot game when a hit variation is performed that will indicate the winning result as the symbol variation game;
When a game ball enters the starting port during the execution of the symbol variation game or the jackpot game, the symbol variation game corresponding to the entered ball is to be executed after the currently executed symbol variation game or jackpot game ends. Holding storage means for storing as holding;
In accordance with the execution of the symbol variation game, the symbol variation effect executing means for executing the symbol variation effect by the effect means,
A gaming machine equipped with
In the case where the hold includes a winning hold in which the result of the symbol variation game is a win, the winning hold is included in the hold as a symbol variation effect corresponding to the winning variation. When a special effect suggesting that there is a possibility is performed, and the winning hold is not included in the hold, the symbol change effect corresponding to the hit variation is the first change from the start of the symbol change effect A normal production having a configuration including a first production and a second production performed through the first production is executed.
First hold determination means for determining whether or not the hit hold is included in the hold when starting the hit variation;
Second hold determination means for determining whether or not the hit hold is included in the hold before the start of the second effect during execution of the normal effect;
When the second hold determining means determines that the hit hold is included in the hold, the effect replacement means for replacing the second effect with the special effect;
A gaming machine comprising:

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