JP5812018B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine, and more particularly, to a gaming machine (a ball game machine) such as a pachinko gaming machine such as a so-called seven machine, feathers, or a right-handed machine, or a combination type gaming machine (arranged ball gaming machine).

  The gaming machine obtains and stores the entry information (random number) by entering the game ball at the start opening, makes a determination of success / failure using the stored entry information, and at the same time displays a special symbol in a variable manner. When the determination result is a win, the display is stopped with a winning symbol, and when the determination result is wrong, the display is stopped with a falling symbol. In such a gaming machine, there is known a gaming machine that executes a predetermined effect when the number of symbol fluctuations reaches a predetermined number (see Patent Document 1). The gaming machine described in Patent Document 1 is configured to execute a detach reach when the number of time reductions reaches a predetermined number.

JP 2004-242941 A

  However, performing a predetermined effect based on the number of symbol variations has been widely performed, and the content of the effect is uniform. For this reason, there is a problem that players are bored with the game, and that the interest in gaming is reduced.

  In view of the above, an object of the present invention is to improve the interest of a gaming machine that performs a predetermined effect based on the number of symbol fluctuations.

In order to achieve the above object, the present invention provides:
Entry information storage means for acquiring entry information based on the entry of a game ball into the start opening, and storing the entry information with a predetermined number as an upper limit;
When the entry information is stored in the entry information storage means, a symbol variation game execution means for executing a symbol variation game that displays the symbols in a variable manner on the symbol display device corresponding to the entry information,
Special game execution means for executing a special game advantageous to the player when the result of the symbol variation game is successful;
A specific effect executing means for executing a specific effect in association with the symbol variable game when the number of variable display times of the symbol reaches a predetermined number of times;
A notification effect executing means for executing a notification effect for notifying information related to the specific effect scheduled to be executed;
A game stop detection means for detecting a game stop,
The notification effect executing means stores the pitch information related to the symbol variation game corresponding to the specific effect scheduled to be executed when the game stop detecting means detects the stop of the game. The notification effect can be executed before
It is characterized by that.
In addition, related inventions related to the present invention are:
Entry information storage means for acquiring entry information based on the entry of a game ball into the start opening, and storing the entry information with a predetermined number as an upper limit;
When the entry information is stored in the entry information storage means, a symbol variation game execution means for executing a symbol variation game that displays the symbols in a variable manner on the symbol display device corresponding to the entry information,
Special game execution means for executing a special game advantageous to the player when the result of the symbol variation game is successful;
A specific effect executing means for executing a specific effect in association with the symbol variable game when the number of variable display times of the symbol reaches a predetermined number of times;
Notification effect executing means for executing a notification effect for notifying information related to the specific effect scheduled to be executed,
The notification effect executing means executes the notification effect before the entry information relating to the symbol variation game corresponding to the specific effect scheduled to be executed is stored when a predetermined condition is satisfied. It is characterized by being possible.

  Thereby, on the condition that a predetermined condition is satisfied, a specific effect scheduled to be executed in a symbol variable game (a symbol variable game for which the execution start condition is not satisfied) corresponding to the entry information not yet stored is notified in advance. (For example, “Super Reach A will occur after 55 revolutions!”). In addition, when the maximum number of memory numbers for which the variation start condition is not satisfied is 4, and when the number of stored pieces of entry information (entrance information for which the change start condition is not satisfied) is two, The content of the specific effect scheduled to be executed when the entry information is stored in the third or fourth piece is notified in advance. In addition, it is possible to notify in advance the contents of a specific effect performed in the symbol variation game corresponding to the previous entry information stored, exceeding the maximum storage number (holding upper limit number) of the entry information. Game characteristics can be provided, and the game entertainment can be improved. Further, the notification effect can be diversified by expanding the notification effect to the symbol variation game whose execution has not been confirmed. Further, by notifying that a specific effect will occur in the future, it is possible to attract the player to the game until the specific effect occurs, and to improve operating efficiency.

  Here, as “information related to a specific effect”, an effect itself to be executed (“movable object A operates”, “step-up proceeds to five stages”, etc.) or information suggesting an effect to be executed ( “I will develop into any story reach”, “I will reach”, etc.). In addition, the specific effect is executed when the number of times of the symbol variation display reaches a predetermined number of times, but “special game execution means for executing a special game advantageous to the player when the result of the symbol variation game is successful” In preparation, after the special game is over, a specific effect may be performed when the number of times the symbol display changes reaches a predetermined number, or it may be triggered by a specific hit such as a small hit or a surprise, or after the power is turned on The specific effect may be executed when the number of times of changing the symbol display reaches a predetermined number. Further, the predetermined number of counts may be reset every time a hit occurs, may be reset only when a specific hit occurs, or may be reset only when a power is turned on, a power is shut off, or a reset operation is performed. .

  In addition, “to execute a specific effect in association with a symbol variable game” includes at least a mode in which a specific effect is executed in a symbol variable game (during a symbol variable game), and at the start of a symbol variable game (of the symbol A mode in which the specific effect is executed before the change start) and a mode in which the specific effect is executed at the end of the symbol variable game (after the symbol change is stopped) are included.

Further, the related invention is the above configuration,
At least a first number and a second number are set as the number of variable displays that can execute the specific effect,
The specific effect execution means is when the number of times of the variable display of the symbol reaches the first number and when the number of times reaches the second number, or when the number of times reaches the first number. The specific effect is configured to be executed at any time when the second number of times is reached.

In this way, by configuring so that the specific effect can be executed at a plurality of variable display times (100th rotation, 500th rotation, 2000th rotation, etc.), the specific effect that is the target of the notification effect can be arbitrarily set, It is possible to diversify the notification mode of the specific effect in the notification effect. In the present invention and related inventions, only one of the set variable display counts may be notified, may be notified every time (all), or any one may be selected and notified. May be. Also included are those in which three or more are set.

Further, the related invention is the above configuration,
The specific effect executing means is configured to be able to execute a plurality of effects as the specific effect, and can execute the specific effect different when the first number of times is reached and when the second number of times is reached. It is characterized by being.

  Thereby, the variation of the specific effect notified by the notification effect is increased (a specific super reach is set at the 100th rotation, the operation of the movable object is set at the 500th rotation, and a highly reliable notice A at the 2000th rotation). Etc.), and can respond to various preferences of the player. Further, since different specific effects can be executed, there may be a case where the same specific effect is executed partially overlapping when three or more are set.

Further, the related invention is the above configuration,
Provided with a game stop detection means for detecting a game stop,
The notification effect executing means is characterized in that the predetermined condition is established when a game stop is detected by the game stop detecting means.

  As a result, it will be held in the future for players who are trying to suspend or end the game, or for players who are in an unfavorable gaming state (such as a low entrance rate to the starting gate and the symbols are not changing). The specific effect can be notified, expectation can be given to the specific effect, and the game can be continued. As a result, the end of the game can be postponed, and the operating rate of the gaming machine can be improved. In addition, as "game stop", when the symbol variation game is not performed, and the number of storage of the ball entry information is zero, or when the launch of the game ball by the launcher unit is not detected for a predetermined period of time, , When it is detected that the player has not touched the firing handle for a predetermined period of time, or when contact is not detected from the firing handle (touch sensor), or the firing operation is detected, the symbol variation is executed. (In this case, the game is not strictly stopped, but it is included in “game stop” as a state where there is a possibility of stopping the game).

  According to the above configuration of the present invention, it is possible to improve the interest of a gaming machine that performs a predetermined effect based on the number of symbol fluctuations.

1 is a front view of a gaming machine according to an embodiment to which the present invention is applied. It is a front view of a game board. It is a block diagram which shows schematic structure of an electronic controller. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of a main job. It is a flowchart which shows the first half part of a special symbol game process. It is a flowchart which shows the second half part of a special symbol game process. It is a flowchart which shows a start opening prize process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol fluctuation | variation display process. It is a flowchart which shows a hit game process. It is a flowchart which shows a process at the time of completion | finish of a hit game. It is a flowchart which shows a specific production execution process.

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the following, a pachinko gaming machine (hereinafter simply referred to as a gaming machine) of a type (so-called “seven machine type”) in which a jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed in response to the end of the special symbol variation display, and the jackpot game is triggered by this. Examples to which the present invention is applied will be described.

  FIG. 1 is a front view of the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the gaming machine 1 includes a game frame 2 and a game board 20. In FIG. 1, detailed illustration of the game board 20 is omitted. The game frame 2 includes an outer frame 3, a middle frame 4, a front frame 5, an upper plate portion 6, a lower plate portion 7, and the like. The middle frame 4 is not shown in FIG. 1 because the front frame 5 is disposed on the front side.

  The outer frame 3 is a wooden plate-like body assembled into a substantially rectangular frame shape. The outer frame 3 is fixed to an installation site provided in the island facility of the pachinko hall and supports the gaming machine main body. The outer frame 3 includes an outer frame main body 3a configured by a substantially rectangular frame-shaped body, and a front plate portion 3b that covers a lower front portion of the outer frame main body 3a.

  The middle frame 4 is made of plastic and constitutes the main body frame of the gaming machine 1. The middle frame 4 is fitted inside the outer frame 3 and is pivotally supported at the left end so as to be openable and closable with respect to the outer frame 3. The middle frame 4 is composed of a frame body portion that occupies about 2/3 of the upper side and a lower plate portion that occupies about 1/3 of the lower side. The game board 20 and the front frame 5 are provided on the front side of the frame portion so as to overlap each other. On the lower side of the front frame 5, an upper plate portion 6 and a lower plate portion 7 are integrally provided. The lower plate portion is provided with a launcher unit (not shown) constituting launching means for launching a game ball onto the game board 20, and a ball feeder (not shown) for supplying the game ball to the launcher unit. Below the right side of the front frame 5 is provided a locking device 5b for locking the front frame 5 when it is closed.

  The front frame 5 is disposed on the front side of the middle frame 4 and is supported at the left end of the middle frame 4 so as to be opened and closed. The front frame 5 is made of plastic, and has an opening 5a for making the board surface of the game board 20 arranged on the back side visible. A substantially rectangular transparent plate frame (not shown) including a transparent plate such as a glass plate corresponding to the opening 5a is mounted on the back surface of the front frame 5.

  A frame lamp portion 5c using LEDs or the like is provided around the opening 5a in the front frame 5. The frame lamp portion 5c is turned on / off or blinks according to the progress of the game in order to enhance the game effect.

  The upper plate 6 is provided below the opening 5 a in the front frame 5. The upper plate 6 is provided with a discharge port 6a for discharging game balls to be paid out as prize balls or rental balls. A first effect button 8 is provided at the center of the upper surface of the upper plate part 6, and a CR operation part 9 is provided on the right side. The effect button 8 includes a middle button 8a, a left button 8b provided on the left side of the middle button 8a, and a right button 8c provided on the right side of the middle button 8a.

  The CR operation unit 9 is used to operate the prepaid card unit 13 (CR unit) provided on the left side of the gaming machine 1, and includes a return button 9a for requesting the return of the prepaid card and the remaining frequency of the prepaid card. Is displayed, and a ball lending button 9c for requesting lending of game balls is provided.

  The lower plate part 7 is provided below the upper plate part 6 in the front frame 5. A discharge port 7 a for discharging game balls from the inside of the gaming machine 1 to the lower plate portion 7 is provided at substantially the center of the lower plate portion 7. At the right end of the lower plate part 7, a launching handle 10 is provided for a player to operate a launching unit (not shown). The firing handle 10 is provided with a touch switch 10a as contact detection means for detecting that the player is touching. On the left side surface of the launch handle 10, a launch stop switch 10b that is operated by the player to temporarily stop the launch of the game ball is disposed.

  In addition, the gaming machine 1 is provided with speakers 11a to 11d for generating sound effects and the like corresponding to the gaming state. The speakers 11 a to 11 d include upper speakers 11 a and 11 b provided on the upper part of the front frame 5 and lower speakers 11 c and 11 d provided on the front plate part 2 b below the front frame 5.

  Next, the surface structure of the game board 20 of the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 2 is a front view of the game board 20. The game board 20 is a substantially rectangular wooden plate-like body and is detachably attached to the middle frame 3, and its back side is covered by a back mechanism board (not shown).

  As shown in FIG. 2, a substantially circular game area 21 is formed on the game board 20 by an outer rail 22 and an inner rail 23 provided on the surface (board surface) of the game board 20. In the game area 21, a central device 24, a normal symbol operating gate 27, a starting port 28, a big winning device 33, left winning ports 34 and 35, right winning ports 36 and 37, a first decorative member 50, and a second decorative member. A gaming device such as 60 is arranged. In addition, a number of obstacle nails are arranged in the game area 21 in consideration of the position balance with each gaming device.

  The central device (center accessory) 24 is disposed at a substantially central portion of the game area 21 and includes an effect display device 25. In this embodiment, a large liquid crystal display device is used as the effect display device 25, and various effect displays are performed in the display area V of the effect display device 25.

  The big winning device 33 is arranged below the central device 24 in the game area 21. The first decoration device 50 is arranged on the left side of the big prize device 33 in the game area 21, the second decoration device 60 is arranged on the right side of the big prize device 33 in the game area 21, and the decoration devices 50, 60 are so-called side. Make up decorations. Further, the first winning device 34 is integrated with the left winning holes 34 and 35, and the second winning device 60 is integrated with the right winning ports 36 and 37.

  The normal symbol operating gate 27 is provided on the left side of the central device 24. Inside the normal symbol operation gate 27, a normal symbol operation gate detection switch 27s (see FIG. 3) for detecting the passage of the game ball flowing down on the game board is provided. When the game ball passes through the normal symbol operation gate 27, the normal symbol starts to be changed.

  The start port 28 is provided below the central position of the central device 24. The start port 28 is a first start port provided on the upper side, in which two entrance ports formed with a game ball receiving port for receiving a game ball flowing down on the surface of the game board 20 are arranged side by side in the vertical direction. 28a and a second start port 28b provided on the lower side.

  The first starting port 28a is configured as a fixed starting port in which the size of the game ball receiving port does not change and the possibility of entering the game ball is constant, so that the game ball can always enter the game. It has become. On the other hand, the second start port 28b is a so-called tulip type and has a pair of wing pieces on the left and right, and the upper end gap between the pair of wing pieces serves as a game ball receiving port. The pair of wing pieces are each opened and closed by tilting in the left-right direction. With this opening and closing action, the second start port 28b is the size of the game ball receiving port of the pair of wing pieces. It is configured as a variable starter that changes. The second start port 28b is in an open state with a high probability of entering by opening a pair of blade pieces, and in a normal state with a low possibility of entering by closing a pair of blade pieces (incoming balls) Including an impossible closed state). When the normal symbol is stopped and displayed as a combination of symbols, the pair of wing pieces are opened to expand the game ball receiving port of the second start port 28b, and the second start port 28b is a normal electric accessory. Function as.

  Inside the start port 28, there are a start port entrance detection switch 28s (see FIG. 3) for detecting a game ball entering the first start port 28a, and a game ball entering the second start port 28b. A start opening ball detection switch 28t (see FIG. 3) for detection and a start opening solenoid 28c (see FIG. 3) for operating the pair of blade pieces are provided. When the pair of wing pieces are opened to the left and right, the size of the game ball receiving port of the second start port 28b is enlarged from the normal time, and the second start port 28b has a possibility of entering a game ball. It becomes an open state that becomes larger. On the other hand, when the pair of wing pieces are erected, the size of the game ball receiving port of the second start port 28b is slightly larger than the diameter of the game ball (one game ball can pass). The second start port 28b is in a normal state (closed state) in which the possibility of entering a game ball is reduced (or entry is impossible). When a game ball enters one of the start ports 28a and 28b, a special symbol (to be described later) starts to be displayed in a variable manner.

  The big prize device 33 is disposed below the start port 28. Here, the special winning device 33 includes a special winning opening 33a opened in a belt shape, an opening / closing plate 33b for opening / closing the special winning opening 33a, and a large winning opening solenoid 33c (for operating the opening / closing plate 33b). 3) and an incoming ball detection switch 33s (see FIG. 3) for detecting an incoming game ball.

  A left winning opening 34 and 35 and a right winning opening 36 and 37 are provided on the upper left side and the upper right side of the big winning device 33. Each of these winning openings is provided with a winning opening entering detection switch (not shown).

  The first decorative member 50 is provided with a plurality of LEDs. By combining these LEDs, a normal symbol display unit 51, a general symbol hold display unit 52, a first special symbol hold display unit 53, and a second special symbol are provided. A hold display unit 54 is configured. Similarly, the second decorative member 60 is provided with a plurality of LEDs, and a first special symbol display device 61 and a second special symbol display device 62 are configured by a combination of these LEDs.

  The normal symbol display device 51 is composed of one LED, and the normal symbol is displayed by this LED. In the normal symbol display device 51, normal symbol variation display and stop display are performed. In the normal symbol display device 51, the normal symbol starts to change when the game ball passes through the normal symbol operating gate 27, and after the predetermined time has passed, the normal symbol hits in the normal symbol display mode or the dismissed normal symbol display mode. Stopped display. When the normal symbol is stopped and displayed in the preset normal symbol display mode, the second start port 28b is opened according to a predetermined opening pattern. A plurality of opening patterns of the second start port 28b are set. When the opening time extending function for extending the opening time of the second start port 28b is not in operation (normal time), a first opening pattern (short-time opening pattern) in which a first opening time (for example, 0.5 seconds) is set. ) Is set, and when the open time extension function is activated, a second open pattern (long open pattern) in which a second open time (for example, 4 seconds) longer than the first open time is set is set. The open time extension function will be described later.

  In this embodiment, a normal symbol success / failure determination value is prepared, and this normal symbol success / failure determination value is acquired when the game ball passes through the normal symbol activation gate 27, and whether or not to activate the second start port 28b. It is used to determine whether or not the symbol is normal (whether to be in an open state). A “hit value” is set in advance for the normal symbol success / failure determination value, and a hit is determined when the acquired normal symbol success / failure determination value matches the winning value. When it is determined that the normal symbol is determined to be winning, the normal symbol that is stopped and displayed by the normal symbol display device 51 is determined as the display mode of the normal symbol. On the other hand, when it is determined to be out (when the acquired normal symbol success / failure determination value does not match the winning value), the normal symbol that is stopped and displayed by the normal symbol display device 51 is determined as the display mode of the out of normal symbol. The Note that the normal symbol success / failure determination value can be generated using a hardware random number using a random number counter by a counter IC or a software random number using a random number counter by software.

  Here, normal symbol holding will be described. The normal symbol hold display section 52 displays the normal symbol hold number, and the number of game balls that have passed through the normal symbol operation gate 27 can be held up to the maximum hold number (four in this embodiment). Each time the next normal symbol win / fail determination is made and the normal symbol variation display is started, the number of unstarted times (the number of reservations) is consumed, and the number of normal symbol reservations is decreased by one. The general-purpose hold display unit 52 includes two LEDs, and can display the number of holds with an upper limit of four by combining turning off, lighting, and blinking of the two LEDs. With the holding of the normal symbol, the normal symbol appropriateness determination value is stored in a predetermined area of the RAM of the main control unit 200.

  It should be noted that the determination of whether or not the normal symbol is determined, the determination of the stop symbol of the normal symbol, the setting of the variation pattern of the normal symbol, the storage and storage of the normal symbol are performed by the main control unit 200 described later.

  Next, the special symbol will be described. In this embodiment, two special symbols, a first special symbol and a second special symbol, are provided, and accordingly, a first special symbol display device 61 for displaying the first special symbol and a second special symbol are displayed. A second special symbol display device 62 is provided. In the following description, when “special symbol” is described, the description refers to both “first special symbol” and “second special symbol” unless otherwise specified. In addition, in the following description, when “special symbol reserve number” is described, unless otherwise specified, the description refers to both “first special symbol reserve number” and “second special symbol reserve number”. To do.

  Each of the special symbol display devices 61 and 62 is composed of seven LEDs, and special LEDs (first special symbol and second special symbol) are respectively displayed by these LEDs. Each LED constituting each of the special symbol display devices 61 and 62 can be turned on and off, and a plurality of display modes can be displayed for each special symbol by a combination of turning on and off of each LED. And in the 1st special symbol display device 61 and the 2nd special symbol display device 62, a specific combination is set as a jackpot symbol among the combinations of the special symbols displayed by the combination of lighting and extinguishing of 7 LEDs respectively. The combination other than the big hit symbol is set as the small hit symbol or the off symbol. In this embodiment, the special symbol variation display is performed by blinking display in which each LED is repeatedly turned on and off.

  When the game ball enters the first start opening 28a, the first special symbol display device 61 starts displaying the first special symbol in a variable manner. After a predetermined time has elapsed, the first special symbol becomes a big hit symbol, a small hit symbol, or A symbol variation game of the first special symbol that is stopped and displayed in any of the symbols that are off is performed. In addition, when a game ball enters the second start port 28b, the second special symbol starts to be displayed in a variable manner on the second special symbol display device 62. The symbol variation game of the second special symbol that is stopped and displayed with either the symbol or the off symbol is performed.

  In the present embodiment, the first special symbol determination value acquired when the game ball enters the first start port 28a, and the second value acquired when the game ball enters the second start port 28b. Special symbol determination values are provided. For the first special symbol determination value, a first special symbol success / failure determination value used for determining whether or not to execute the big hit game or the small hit game is determined, and a stop symbol of the first special symbol is determined. The first symbol determination value used for the jackpot symbol determination to be performed and the first reach determination value used for the reach determination for determining whether or not to perform the reach effect are included. Similarly, the determination value for the second special symbol includes the second special symbol success / failure determination value used for determining whether or not the big hit game or the small hit game is executed, and the stop of the second special symbol. A second symbol determination value used for jackpot symbol determination for determining a symbol and a second reach determination value used for reach determination for determining whether or not to perform a reach effect are included.

  Based on the game ball entering the first starting port 28a, a first special symbol success / failure determination value, a first symbol determination value, and a first reach determination value are acquired, and each of the acquired determination values is a main control. Is stored as a hold (first special symbol hold) in a predetermined area (first hold storage area) of the RAM of the unit 200. In addition, based on the game ball entering the second start port 28b, a second special symbol success / failure determination value, a second symbol determination value, and a second reach determination value are acquired, and each of the acquired determination values is It is stored as a hold (second special symbol hold) in a predetermined area (second hold storage area) of the RAM of the main control unit 200. The special symbol judgment value (special symbol success / failure judgment value, symbol judgment value, reach judgment value) is generated using a hardware random number using a random number counter by a counter IC or a software random number using a software random number counter. can do.

  Here, the holding of special symbols will be described. The first special symbol hold display unit 53 and the second special symbol hold display unit 54 are each composed of two LEDs, and the number of holds can be set up to 4 each by combining the turn-off, lighting, and blinking of the two LEDs. Can be displayed.

  The number of game balls that have entered the first start opening 28a can be held until the maximum number of reserved balls (four in this embodiment) is reached as the number of first special symbol held. The first special symbol hold number is acquired every time a game ball enters the first start port 28a and is stored in a predetermined area (first hold storage area) of the RAM of the main control unit 200. This corresponds to the number (stored number) of special symbol determination values (first special symbol success / failure determination value, first symbol determination value, first reach determination value). In the present embodiment, since the first symbol determination value and the first reach determination value are obtained together with the first special symbol determination value based on the game ball entering the first start port 28a, the first special symbol is also acquired. The number of reservations also corresponds to the number of stored first symbol determination values and first reach determination values. Then, the symbol variation game of the first special symbol is executed based on the first special symbol hold. The first special symbol hold is digested every time the corresponding symbol variation game is started, and the first special symbol hold is decreased by one.

  The number of game balls that have entered the second start port 28b can be held until reaching the maximum number of reservations (four in this embodiment) as the second special symbol reservation number. The second special symbol hold number is acquired every time a game ball enters the second start port 28b and is stored in a predetermined area (second hold storage area) of the RAM of the main control unit 200. This corresponds to the number (stored number) of special symbol determination values (second special symbol success / failure determination value, second symbol determination value, second reach determination value). In the present embodiment, since the second symbol determination value and the second reach determination value are acquired together with the second special symbol success / failure determination value based on the game ball entering the second start port 28b, the second special symbol is also acquired. The number of reservations also corresponds to the number of stored second symbol determination values and second reach determination values. Then, the symbol variation game of the second special symbol is executed based on the second special symbol hold. The second special symbol hold is digested every time the corresponding symbol variation game is started, and the second special symbol hold is decreased by one. On-hold storage and on-hold digestion of the first and second special symbols are performed by the main control unit 200 described later.

  When the special symbol (the first special symbol, the second special symbol) is stopped and displayed, and the symbol variable game is completed, the next symbol variable game can be executed. Then, in a state where the symbol variable game can be executed, the existence of one or more first special symbol holds, the execution start condition of the symbol variable game of the first special symbol is satisfied, and one second special symbol hold is held. As a result, the execution start condition for the symbol variation game of the second special symbol is satisfied.

  The gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment is configured to perform a second special symbol priority variation process in which the symbol variation game of the second special symbol is preferentially executed over the symbol variation game of the first special symbol. That is, when both the number of the first special symbol hold and the number of the second special symbol hold are “1 or more”, the second special symbol is preferentially displayed in a variable manner over the first special symbol. The reservation of the symbol is preferentially consumed. When the first special symbol reservation count is “1 or more” and the second special symbol reservation count is “zero”, the variable display of the first special symbol is executed.

  The special symbol success / failure determination value is set with a winning value (big hit value and small hit value) for determining whether or not the game is successful, and is acquired when the game ball enters the first start port 28a or the second start port 28b. When the special symbol success / failure judgment value matches the big hit value, it becomes “big hit”, when it does not match the big hit value and matches the small hit value, it becomes “small hit”, and when it does not match the big hit value and the small hit value It becomes "displacement". The first special symbol success / failure determination is performed when the first special symbol starts variable display, and the second special symbol correctness determination is performed when the second special symbol starts variable display.

  If it is determined that the first special symbol is determined to be a big hit, the first special symbol that is stopped and displayed by the first special symbol display device 61 is determined to be a big hit symbol, and the first special symbol is determined to be a big hit. In the case where the first special symbol displayed on the first special symbol display device 61 is determined to be a small hit symbol, and the first special symbol is determined to be unacceptable, the first special symbol is displayed. The first special symbol that is stopped and displayed on the display device 61 is determined to be a detached symbol. Similarly, if it is determined that the second special symbol is determined to be a big win, the second special symbol that is stopped and displayed on the second special symbol display device 62 is determined to be a big hit symbol, and the first special symbol is determined to be small. If it is determined that the winning symbol is a win, the first special symbol that is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display device 61 is determined to be a small symbol, and if it is determined that the second special symbol is determined to be wrong, The second special symbol that is stopped and displayed by the two special symbol display device 62 is determined to be a detached symbol.

  The special symbol is configured to change and display according to a predetermined change pattern. This variation pattern defines the variation time of the special symbol and the presence / absence of the reach effect in the variation (effect content). The variation pattern of the special symbol is determined by variation pattern determination using a variation pattern determination value from a variation pattern table in which a plurality of variation patterns are stored when the special symbol validity determination is executed.

  A plurality of special symbol variation pattern tables are prepared, and each is selected and used according to the gaming state (special symbol variation mode). In addition, each variation pattern table selected according to the gaming state is selected when the special symbol success / failure determination result is a big hit and when the special symbol success / failure determination result is a small winner A small hit variation pattern table to be selected, and a loss variation pattern table selected when the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is not included. The deviation variation patterns stored in the deviation variation pattern table include a “normal deviation variation pattern (reach variation pattern without reach)” that does not involve reach variation and a “reach variation pattern with reach” that involves reach variation. The normal deviation variation pattern is configured as a variation pattern with a shorter special symbol variation time than the reach deviation variation pattern. The reach variation variation pattern has a special symbol variation time longer than the normal variation variation pattern. It is configured as. The presence or absence of reach variation is determined by reach determination using the reach determination value acquired when the game ball enters the start port 28.

  First special symbol success / failure determination, second special symbol success / failure determination, determination of variation mode (variation pattern) of first special symbol, determination of variation mode (variation pattern) of second special symbol, stop of first special symbol Determination of symbol, determination of stop symbol of second special symbol, change display and stop display of first special symbol, change display and stop display of second special symbol, priority change of second special symbol will be described later. 200.

  Next, the big hit game which is one aspect of the win game will be described. When the special symbol stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display device 61 or the second special symbol display device 62 is the above-mentioned jackpot symbol (when the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is a big hit), the main control unit 200 Starts a big hit game that is relatively advantageous to the player. The big hit game is started by setting the big hit game flag to ON, and the big winning device 33 is operated, in other words, the big winning opening 33a is opened and closed a plurality of times, so that the game balls to the big winning opening 33a are opened. It gives a player a profit (prize ball) for entering the ball. The big hit game is realized by repeatedly executing a hit game process by the main control unit 200 described later.

  During the big hit game, the big prize device 33 is operated, and a predetermined number of prize balls (15 in this embodiment) are paid out in accordance with the game balls entering the big prize opening 33a. In other words, a game ball that has entered the grand prize opening 33a is detected by passing the game ball with the big prize opening entrance detection switch 33s (not shown) disposed in the big prize opening 33a. Will be paid out.

  Then, with the start of the big hit game, the big winning device 33 is continuously operated, and the big winning opening / closing operation for switching the big winning port 33a between the open state and the closed state is continuously performed a plurality of times. Due to the operation of the special winning device 33, the special winning opening 33a is opened. This open state is ended when a predetermined end condition is established, and the open special winning opening 33a is closed. As a predetermined ending condition, when the opening time of the grand prize opening 33a reaches a specified time (30 seconds in this embodiment) or the number of game balls that have entered the open big opening 33a is a predetermined number (this implementation) In the example, it is possible to reach 10). In the case where one round game is performed from the start to the end of the open state of the big winning opening 33a, the maximum number of consecutive rounds in which the big hit game can be continued is set.

  In the gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment, two types of big hit games having different maximum continuous round numbers are provided. Specifically, a “first big hit game” in which the maximum number of consecutive rounds is set to 15 and a “second big hit game” in which the maximum number of continuous rounds is set to two are provided. When the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is “first jackpot”, the “first jackpot game” is started. When the result of the special symbol success / failure judgment is “second jackpot”, the “second jackpot game” is started. Is done. Since the maximum number of consecutive rounds of the first jackpot game is set to 15 rounds and the maximum number of rounds of the second jackpot game is set to two rounds, the first jackpot game is referred to as “15R jackpot game” below. The second jackpot game is also called “2R jackpot game”, the first jackpot is also called “15R jackpot”, and the second jackpot is also called “2R jackpot”. The second big hit game constitutes a “special hit game” together with a small hit game described later.

  The main control unit 200 determines the bonus symbol of the special symbol (first special symbol, second special symbol) determined based on the special symbol success / failure determination value (first special symbol success / failure determination value, second special symbol success / failure determination value). Depending on the type, the number of rounds of the jackpot game is determined. In other words, the special symbol jackpot symbol includes a “15R jackpot symbol” that generates a first jackpot (15R jackpot) and a “2R jackpot symbol” that generates a second jackpot (2R jackpot). Is provided. Further, in this embodiment, “15R probability variation big hit” and “2R probability variation big hit” are provided as big hits for which the probability variation function is activated after the big hit game ends, and the special symbol success / failure judgment value (first special bonus decision value) Depending on the type of the big win symbol of the special symbol (the first special symbol, the second special symbol) determined based on the symbol success / failure judgment value, the second special symbol success / failure judgment value), the probability variation function is activated after the big hit game ends. Decide whether or not to In other words, the special symbol big hit symbol “15R probability variable big hit” which will generate “15R probability variable big hit”, “2R probability variable big hit” which will generate “2R probability variable big hit”, and big hit game “Normal jackpot symbol (15R normal jackpot)” in which the probability variation function does not operate after the end of the period is provided.

  These first and second big hit games differ in the opening time (specified time) of the big winning opening 33a in one round. The opening time of the first jackpot game big winning opening 33a (the first big hit game big winning opening opening time) is a prescribed number (10) of entering the big winning opening 33a and the execution of the winning ball payout associated therewith. The time when the possibility becomes extremely high, that is, the time when the prize ball payout amount increases, is preferably set to 25 seconds to 30 seconds, and is set to 26 seconds in this embodiment. The opening time of the big winning hole 33a for the second big hit game (the big winning hole opening time for the second big hit game) is a specified number (10) of the balls to the big winning hole 33a and the execution of the winning ball payout associated therewith. It is set as the time when the possibility becomes extremely low, that is, the time when the prize ball payout amount decreases (including the time when the prize ball payout amount becomes substantially zero), and is 0.1 second to 6 seconds In this embodiment, it is set to 0.2 seconds. Due to the difference in the opening times of these big winning openings 33a, the first big hit game is positioned as a “long term game” having a long execution period, and the second big hit game has a short execution period together with a small hit game which will be described later. It is positioned as a “winning game (specific hit game)”.

  In this embodiment, the number of rounds and the opening time of the big winning opening 33a are different between the first big hit game and the second big hit game, but the first big hit game and the second big hit game share the same number of rounds. And only the opening time of the special winning opening 33a may be different. For example, the number of rounds of the first jackpot game and the number of rounds of the second jackpot game are both 15 rounds, the opening time of the jackpot 33a in the first jackpot game is 26 seconds per round, and the big prize in the second jackpot game The opening time of the mouth 33a may be 0.1 seconds per round. Even in this case, the first big hit game has a long execution period (a lot of prize ball payout amount) “long-term game”, and the second big hit game has a short execution period (a little prize ball payout amount) “short term” "Per game (specific game)".

  Next, the small hit game which is one mode of the hit game will be described. When the first special symbol stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display unit 61 or the second special symbol stopped and displayed on the second special symbol display unit 62 is a small hit symbol, the main control unit 200 determines the small hit Start the game. The small hit game is a hit game started by setting the small hit game flag to ON, and constitutes a “specific hit game” together with the second big hit game. In the small hit game, the big prize device 33 operates in the same manner as the second big hit game described above. In other words, in the small hit game, the large winning opening 33a is configured to be opened twice for 0.2 seconds, and the possibility that a game ball enters the large winning opening 33a is very low, so that the payout of the winning ball is substantially reduced. It is in a gaming state that does not accompany. It should be noted that, based on whether or not a prize ball is paid out in a winning game, “first big hit” is also referred to as “with a given ball”, and “second big hit” and “small hit” are also referred to as “without a given ball”.

  In the small hit game, since the operation of the second big hit game and the big prize device 33 is the same mode, the player can open and close the big winning opening 33a twice in a short time (a big winning opening opening pattern in the second big hit game) ) Cannot be discriminated whether the second big hit game or the small hit game has occurred. For this reason, it is more difficult to recognize whether or not the probability varying function is activated after the operation of the big winning device 33 (after the second big hit game or the small hit game is finished) (differentiation between the second big hit game and the small hit game). can do. In this way, a state in which the player has made it difficult to recognize (difficult to determine) that the probability variation function is operating is referred to as a “probability non-notification state (latent probability variation state in case of probability variation)”. Even when the number of rounds is the same for the first jackpot game and the second jackpot game, and only the opening time of the big prize opening 33a is different, the opening / closing pattern of the big prize opening 33a in the small prize game is the second. By making it the same as the big hit game, it is possible to make it difficult to distinguish the second big hit game from the small hit game. For example, if the opening time of the big winning opening 33a in the first big hit game is 26 seconds per round and the opening time of the big winning opening 33a in the second big hit game is 0.1 second per round, By making the number of times of opening of the big winning opening 33a 15 times and the opening time per time 0.1 seconds, it is possible to make it difficult to distinguish the second big hit game and the small hit game.

  In addition, “long-term games (first big hit games)” are hit games aimed at obtaining a large number of prize balls, whereas “short-term games (specific games per game)” is a game mode transition. Alternatively, it is a hit game for the purpose of maintaining the game mode. In other words, after the end of the 2R big hit game related to the second probability variable big hit, the probability variation function starts to operate for the gaming state at the start of the 2R big hit game (the game mode is shifted), and after the small hit game ends. The operating states of the probability changing function, the changing time shortening function, and the opening time extending function do not change with respect to the gaming state at the start of the small hit game (the gaming mode is maintained).

  In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, after the big hit game is finished, the fluctuation time shortening function, the opening time extension function, and the probability fluctuation function are activated to be in an advantageous state (the “non-probable state with electric support” or “the positive change with electric support” described later). Status "etc.) is started. In the advantageous state in which the variable time shortening function, the opening time extension function, and the probability variation function are activated, the symbol variation game can be advanced under conditions that are more advantageous than the normal state in which these functions are not activated. Here, as advantageous states, (a) a state in which all of the fluctuation time shortening function, the opening time extension function, and the probability fluctuation function are activated (an electric power support with a certain variation state), (b) the fluctuation time shortening function, the opening time extension function Among the probability variation functions, only the probability variation function is activated (the probability variation state without electric support), (c) only the variation time shortening function and the opening time extension function among the variation time shortening function, the opening time extending function and the probability varying function. Can be exemplified (a state of electric support and a non-probable change state). The variable time shortening function, the opening time extending function, and the probability varying function operate by setting the fluctuation shortening flag, the opening extension flag, and the probability changing flag to ON, respectively. Further, the variable time shortening function and the open time extending function start simultaneously and end simultaneously. In the following description, when only one of the functions related to the operating state of the variable time shortening function and the open time extending function is described, the other function is also paired. For example, when it is described in the following description that “the variable time shortening function is operating”, this description can be interpreted as “the opening time extending function is also operating”. When it is described that “the function is operating”, this description can be understood as “the variable time reduction function is operating”.

  In the present embodiment, whether or not the probability variation function is activated after the end of the jackpot game is determined according to the type of the jackpot symbol. Specifically, when “normal big hit symbol” is set as a special symbol stop symbol, “normal big hit” that does not activate the probability variation function occurs after the big hit game ends, and “probability big hit symbol (2R probable change) When the jackpot symbol, 15R probability variation jackpot symbol) is set, a “probability variation jackpot” that activates the probability variation function occurs after the jackpot game ends.

  As described above, when the special symbol stop symbol is a normal jackpot symbol, after the jackpot game is over, without changing the probability variation function, the variation time shortening function and the open time extension function are activated, “Unsupported change with support” is started. The uncertain change state with electric support is realized by the control of the main control unit 200. By the activation of the opening time extension function, the opening time of the second start port 28b is extended from the first opening time (for example, 0.2 seconds), which is the normal setting time, to the second opening time (for example, 5 seconds). . As a result, the frequency of entering the game ball into the second start port 28b is higher than that at normal time (when the opening time extension function is not activated). The non-probable change state with electric support is configured to continue until the number of changes of the special symbol reaches a predetermined number (100 in this example) after the big hit game ends.

  Also, if the special symbol stop symbol is a 15R probability variation big hit symbol, after the big hit game ends, the probability variation function, variation time shortening function and open time extension function are activated to start the "predictable state with electric support" Is done. The probability variation state with the electric support is realized by the control of the main control unit 200. In this state, the probability that the result of the special symbol success / failure determination result is a big hit, that is, a special bonus, together with the variable time shortening function and the open time extending function. The probability variation function is activated to increase the probability that the symbol is stopped and displayed as a big hit symbol.

  During the operation of the probability variation function, the jackpot value for determining whether or not the special symbol is increased increases the probability that the result of determining whether or not the special symbol is successful will be a jackpot. Specifically, as the success / failure determination table in which the jackpot value is set, a low probability success / failure determination table and a high probability success / failure determination table in which the number of jackpot values is set larger than the low probability success / failure determination table are prepared. . When the probability variation function is not in operation, the special symbol success / failure determination is performed using the low probability success / failure determination table, so that the probability that the special symbol success / failure determination value matches the jackpot value is low (in this embodiment, 1/200). When the probability variation function is activated, the special symbol success / failure determination is performed using the high probability success / failure determination table, so that the probability that the special symbol success / failure determination value matches the jackpot value is high (in this embodiment, 1/20). ) The prone change state with electric support is set to continue until the number of fluctuations of the special symbol reaches “10,000 times” after the jackpot game ends, and substantially continues until the next jackpot game starts. It is configured.

  When the stop symbol of the first special symbol or the second special symbol is a specific hit symbol (2R probability variable big hit symbol or small hit symbol), that is, when a specific hit (2R big hit or small hit) occurs, the specific hit game starts The operating state of the variable time shortening function and the open time extending function at the time (when the 2R probability variable big hit symbol or the small hit symbol is stopped and displayed) is maintained. That is, when the variation time shortening function and the release time extension function are activated at the start of the specific hit game, the variation time shortening function and the release time extension function are activated even after the specific hit game ends. On the other hand, if the fluctuation time shortening function and the opening time extension function are not activated at the start of the specific hit game, the fluctuation time shortening function and the opening time extension function are not activated even after the specific hit game is finished.

  In the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, a symbol change effect is provided on the effect display device 25 in association with the symbol change game of the special symbol performed using the first special symbol display device 61 or the second special symbol display device 62. Done. Here, the symbol variation effect realized under the control of the sub-control unit 260 and the effect display control unit 280 described later will be described. As shown in FIG. 2, the display area V of the effect display device 25 is provided with an effect symbol display unit 25a for displaying effect symbols. This effect symbol is displayed in conjunction with the change display and stop display of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display device 61 or the second special symbol on the second special symbol display device 62. Further, in the display area V of the effect display device 25, the part excluding the effect symbol display unit 25a is a background display area in which various background images including characters, figures, symbols, characters, and the like are displayed. The effect symbol display unit 25a and the background display area constitute a symbol variation effect screen. As described above, since the effect display device 25 is arranged in the center of the game board 20 (game area 21), the player usually displays the content displayed in the display area V of the effect display device 25 (particularly the effect symbol). It will play a game paying attention to.

  In the present embodiment, a three-digit number symbol consisting of “1” to “9” is used as the effect symbol, and the effect symbol display unit 25a displays the right symbol display unit on which the left symbol is displayed and the middle symbol. The middle symbol display area and the left symbol display area on which the right symbol is displayed are composed of three symbol display areas. The effect symbol display unit 25a has a symbol variation direction set in a direction substantially orthogonal to the arrangement direction of each symbol display unit, in this case, in the vertical direction (vertical direction).

  The effect symbol starts when the first special symbol or the second special symbol starts the variable display, and when the first special symbol or the second special symbol is stopped and displayed at any of the symbols, the effect symbol Is stopped and displayed with a symbol corresponding to the stop symbol of the first special symbol or the second special symbol. In this embodiment, among the stop symbols of the production symbols, the combination of even symbols with the same three digits corresponds to the “ordinary big hit symbol” with the special symbol, and the combination of odd symbols with the same three digits has the “15R probability variation big hit with the special symbol. Corresponding to “design”, hitting combinations such as “1, 2, 3”, odd numbers such as “1, 3, 5”, and unreachable combinations such as “7, 6, 7” Chance symbols (so-called chance eyes), which are predetermined specific out-of-design symbols other than symbols, correspond to special per symbol symbols (2R probability variable big hit symbol, small hit symbol), and combinations of other symbols are special symbols This corresponds to the “out-of-line design”.

  The determination of the variation pattern (variation pattern) and stop symbol of the effect symbol is configured to be performed by the sub-control unit 260 based on the variation pattern designation command and the special symbol information designation command transmitted from the main control unit 200. . Here, the variation pattern designation command transmitted from the main control unit 200 to the sub-control unit 260 indicates the variation pattern of the special symbol. Specifically, the variation time of the special symbol and the presence / absence of the reach effect The contents of the production are shown. The main control unit 200 randomly determines the variation pattern of the special symbol according to the determination result of the special symbol. Based on the special symbol variation pattern determined by the main control unit 200, the sub-control unit 260 determines the effect pattern of the effect symbol displayed on the effect symbol display unit 25a. The special symbol information designation command transmitted from the main control unit 200 to the sub-control unit 260 indicates a special symbol stop symbol, and the main control unit 200 determines the special symbol according to the determination result of the special symbol. The stop pattern of is decided at random. Then, based on the special symbol information designation command indicating the special symbol stop symbol determined by the main control unit 200, the sub control unit 260 determines the stop symbol of the effect symbol to be stopped and displayed on the effect symbol display unit 25a.

  Further, in the display area V of the effect display device 25, a hold display effect for displaying the number of special symbols held and a jackpot game effect accompanying the progress of the jackpot game during the jackpot game are performed. The jackpot game effect includes a jackpot game start effect (fanfare effect) executed at the start of the jackpot game, a round effect executed during the jackpot game, a jackpot game end effect (ending effect) executed at the end of the jackpot game, etc. . These jackpot game effects are executed by the sub-control unit 260 based on commands transmitted from the main control unit 200 as the jackpot game progresses.

  In this example, after the winning game (first big hit game, second big hit game, small hit game) is completed, the specific effect during the symbol changing game is triggered by the fact that the number of changes of the special symbol has reached the predetermined number of times of change. Is configured to run. In this embodiment, the “predetermined number of fluctuations” is 50 times, and the “specific effect” is a story reach effect with story development. Specifically, an effect execution counter is set for counting the number of symbol fluctuations at the end of the winning game (first big hit game, second big hit game, small hit game), and the number of symbol fluctuations counted by the effect execution counter is set. When the game reaches “50 times”, a story reach effect is executed in the symbol variation game. In other words, when the number of symbol fluctuations after the winning game ends reaches 50, the reach effect is forcibly performed regardless of the reach determination result.

  Further, in this embodiment, triggered by the establishment of a predetermined notice condition, a notice effect (equivalent to the “notification effect” of the present invention) for notifying the contents of a specific effect scheduled to be executed in advance is executed. The The notice effect can be performed using the display area V of the effect display device 25. In the present embodiment, the notice effect is performed regardless of whether or not the special symbol hold corresponding to the symbol variable game in which the specific effect is executed is stored. That is, in the notice effect, it is possible to notify a specific effect scheduled to be executed in a symbol variable game (a symbol variable game in which the execution start condition is not satisfied) corresponding to a special symbol hold that has not yet been stored.

  As the “notice condition” for executing the notice effect, for example, it can be exemplified that a game stop state in which the symbol variation game is not executed is entered. In the present embodiment, a state where the symbol variable game is not performed and the number of special symbol reservations (the first special symbol reservation number and the second special symbol reservation number) is zero is set to the game stop state. That is, in a state where the symbol variation game can be executed, the game stop state occurs when the symbol variation game execution condition is not satisfied. Note that the game stop state may be a case where the launch of the game ball by the launcher unit is not detected for a predetermined period, or when the touch switch 10a detects that the player has not touched the launch handle 10 for a predetermined period.

  The notice effect of the present embodiment is configured to perform an effect of notifying the execution time of the specific effect by notifying the number of remaining fluctuations of the special symbol until the specific effect is executed when the notice condition is satisfied. Has been. For example, when the notice condition is satisfied when the number of symbol fluctuations after the end of the winning game reaches 20, the remaining fluctuations are 30 (= 50-20 times). By displaying a message such as “A story reach will occur after 30 rotations” in the display area V, a notice effect can be realized.

  Next, the electronic control device of the gaming machine 1 of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the electronic control device.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the electronic control device includes a main control unit 200 and sub-control units 230, 260, and 280 connected to the main control unit 200. The sub control unit includes a payout control unit (prize ball control unit) 230, a sub control unit 260, and an effect display control unit 280. The main control unit 200 includes a main control board 200a, and the sub control units 230, 260, and 280 include a payout control board 230a, a sub control board 260a, and an effect display control board 280a, respectively, as peripheral control boards. Each of these control boards and other boards (a power board, a relay board, a drive board, a decoration board, an amplifier board, an effect button board, etc.) are arranged on the back side of the gaming machine 1.

  Each control unit 200, 230, 260, 280 is supplied with power from a main power source (not shown). Further, when the power is turned on, a system reset signal is transmitted to each control unit 200, 230, 260, 280. Note that the gaming machine 1 of this embodiment includes a backup power supply unit (not shown) that supplies an operating voltage to the main control unit 200 and the payout control unit 230 when the power is turned off. 200 and RAM data of the payout control unit 230 are held.

  The main control unit 200 constitutes a main control unit that controls the progress of the game. The main control unit 200 transmits a command signal (command data) instructing processing contents to each of the sub control units 230 and 260, and each sub control unit 230, Reference numerals 260 and 280 are configured to perform various controls based on the command signal.

  The CPU 200b of the main control board 200a constituting the main control unit 200 includes a CPU core, a built-in RAM (hereinafter simply referred to as RAM), a built-in ROM (hereinafter also simply referred to as ROM), etc., and is stored in the ROM. The control program controls operation of the entire gaming machine 1 (basic progress control of the game) using the RAM as a work area. Further, the main control unit 200 is configured by a CPU 200b as a main body to determine whether or not the special symbol (the first special symbol and the second special symbol) is determined by the determination program stored in the ROM. . Further, the CPU 200b of the main control unit 200 determines a specific variation pattern from the variation pattern table of the special symbol stored in the ROM when executing the special symbol validity determination. Note that the control cycle of the CPU 200b of the main control unit 200 of this embodiment is set to 4 ms.

  A board input relay board 201 and a board output relay board 202 are connected to the main controller 200. The board input relay board 201 is connected with a normal symbol operation gate detection switch 27 s, start-port entrance detection switches 28 s and 28 t, and a grand prize entrance entrance detection switch 33 s, and these signals are input to the main control unit 200. Is configured to do. The board output relay board 202 is connected with a normal symbol display device 51, special symbol display devices 61 and 62, a start port solenoid 28c, and a big prize port solenoid 33c, and a control signal from the main control unit 200 is output. .

  The payout control board 230a constituting the payout control unit 230 includes a CPU 230b having the same configuration as the CPU 200b of the main control unit 200. To the payout control unit 230, the launch control unit 250, the CR unit 13, and the like are connected. From the main control unit 200 to the payout control unit 230, commands such as a prize ball instruction command for instructing a prize ball payout, a game start permission signal for instructing a game start permission, and various launch control commands are transmitted. Various launch control commands include ball feed permission / prohibition, launch permission / prohibition, game start permission, and the like. When the CPU 230b of the payout control board 230a receives a prize ball instruction command from the main control unit 200, the CPU 230b of a game ball payout device (not shown) provided on the back side of the gaming machine 1 based on the number of prize balls indicated by the command. By paying off the payout motor, game balls are paid out (prize ball payout) for the designated number of prize balls. In this game ball payout (prize ball payout), game balls stored in a game ball tank (not shown) provided on the upper back side of the gaming machine 1 are supplied to a game ball payout device via a game ball rail (not shown). Then, the supplied game ball is discharged by rotating the payout motor of the game ball payout device.

  The sub-control unit 260 constitutes sub-control means for controlling various effects executed as the game progresses. The sub-control board 260a has a CPU 260b, a ROM, a RAM (not shown), an input / output port, etc. Circuit components and a sound generator are provided, and are connected to the main controller 200 at the input / output ports. The sub-control unit 260 is configured to control effect control using decoration display by various lamps, sound effects output from the speakers 11a to 11d, display of effect symbols by the effect display device 25, and the like.

  From the main control unit 200 to the sub-control unit 260, various symbol control commands (variation pattern designation command, special symbol information designation command, symbol stop command, etc.) related to special symbol variation display, various lamp control commands, and various voice controls A command is sent. Various symbol control control commands for instructing display control of the effect symbols are transmitted from the main control unit 200 to the effect display control unit 280 via the sub-control unit 260. An effect display control unit 280 is connected to the sub control unit 260, and display of effect symbols according to various symbol control commands from the main control unit 200 (from the sub control unit 260 to the effect display control unit 280). Various effect display control commands for instructing effect display control for realizing a symbol variation effect) are simultaneously transmitted.

  The effect display control board 280a of the effect display control unit 280 is provided with arithmetic circuit components (not shown) including a CPU 280b, a RAM, a ROM, an input / output port, a VDP (video display processor), and the like. The display unit 25 is connected to the control unit 260, and the effect display device 25 is connected to the effect display control unit 280. In addition, an image ROM (not shown) is provided on the effect display control board 280a, and the image data of the effect symbols displayed on the effect display device 25 (such as the image data relating to the above-described variation effect) is stored in the image ROM. Is stored more than once.

  In addition, various LEDs / lamps 262 and an amplifier board 263 are connected to the sub-control unit 260 via a decorative drive board 261. Each LED / lamp 262 includes a frame lamp portion 5c. Connected to the amplifier board 263 are speakers 11a to 11d that output various sounds, sounds, and the like in accordance with the progress of the game. Furthermore, a first effect button 8 (middle button 8a, left button 8b, right button 8c) and a second effect button 9 are connected to the sub-control unit 260 via an effect button board 264. The sub-control unit 260 receives various commands from the main control unit 200, the first effect button 8 (the middle button 8a, the left button 8b, the right button 8c) and the second effect button 9 (reception of a variation pattern designation command, the first effect). Based on button operation signal input, second effect button operation signal input, etc., selection / execution processing of various LED / lamp lighting / flashing patterns, and selection of sound effect data output from the speakers 11a to 11d An output process, a process for selecting a symbol variation effect execution pattern (effect pattern) on the effect display device 25, a symbol variation effect execution process based on the execution pattern, and the like are performed.

  Next, the operation of the gaming machine 1 of this embodiment will be described based on a flowchart. FIG. 4 is an example of a main job performed under the control of the main control unit 200. The main job shown in FIG. 4 is executed by the CPU 200b mounted on the main control board 200a in accordance with a program stored in a ROM (not shown) (an internal ROM of the CPU 200b or a ROM mounted on the main control board 200a). After the throw-in process (S100), each process of a game start process (S200), a normal symbol game process (S300), a normal electric game game process (S400), a special symbol game process (S500), and a winning game process (S600) Are repeatedly executed every time the timer is reset. The power-off generation process (S50) is a power-on process (S100) when a power failure occurs due to a power failure or the like, the used registers and stack pointers are saved, the payout motor is stopped, and a system reset occurs. It has come to move to.

The power-on process (S100) is performed when the power is turned on and when power is restored after the power is cut off. When the power is turned on, RAM initialization processing is performed, and when the power is turned off, the game state is restored when the power is turned off. Return settings etc. are made to make it happen. In the game start process (S200), various switch states are detected, various determination values (random number counters) are updated, prize ball payout control, etc. are performed. The normal symbol display device 51 (see FIG. 2) determines whether the normal symbol is hit and stopped in the normal symbol display mode or whether it is stopped and displayed in the off-normal symbol display mode. Here, as described above, the normal symbol success / failure determination in the present embodiment has a probability of being a hit according to the operating state of the opening time extension function (and the fluctuation time reduction function) that extends the opening time of the start port 28b. There is a difference that the probability of hitting is higher when the open time extension function (and variable time reduction function) is activated than when the open time extension function (and variable time reduction function) is not active.

  Next, when the result of normal symbol success / failure determination is obtained, the variation time of the normal symbol is set, and the variation display of the normal symbol is started according to the variation time. When the fluctuation time elapses, the normal symbol is stopped and displayed in the determined display mode, and when the normal symbol is stopped and displayed in the normal symbol display mode, the operation of the normal electric accessory is started. (The 2nd starting port 28b is made into an open state). In the normal symbol game process, the normal symbol variation display and stop display are performed as described above, and when the normal symbol is stopped and displayed in the normal symbol display mode, the second start port 28b is activated. I do. When the second start port 28b is actuated, the pair of blade pieces open to the left and right, and the second start port 28b is opened.

  In the ordinary electric accessory game process (S400), it is determined whether or not the opening time for maintaining the second start port 28b in the open state has elapsed. If the open time has not elapsed, the second start port 28b is determined. It is determined whether or not a predetermined number of winnings has been won. When it is determined that the predetermined number of winnings has been won at the second starting port 28b in the open state, or when it is determined that the opening time of the second starting port 28b in the open state has elapsed, a pair of The blade piece is closed, and the second start port 28b is in a normal state (closed state).

  Next, the special symbol game process (S500) will be described based on the flowcharts of FIGS. First, as shown in FIG. 5A, a start opening winning process is performed (S501). Here, the start opening winning process (S501) will be described based on the flowchart of FIG.

  First, it is determined whether or not the first start port 28a has been won (a game ball has entered) (S501a). If it is determined that the first start port 28a has not been won (S501a: NO), The process proceeds to S501d. On the other hand, if it is determined that the first start port 28a has been won (S501a: YES), it is determined whether or not the first special symbol hold number is less than 4 (S501b). As a result, when it is determined that the first special symbol reservation number is not less than 4 (4 or more) (S501b: NO), the process proceeds to S501d, and the first special symbol reservation number is less than 4. Is determined (S501b: YES), the first special symbol determination value is acquired and stored in a predetermined area of the RAM (S501c). The first special symbol determination value includes a first special symbol determination value, a first symbol determination value, a first reach determination value, and the like. Thereby, the 1st special symbol reservation number increases by one.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the second start port 28b has been won (S501d). If it is determined that the second start port 28b has not been won (S501d: NO). The start opening winning process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that the second start port 28b has been won (S501d: YES), it is determined whether or not the second special symbol hold number is less than 4 (S501e). As a result, when it is determined that the second special symbol hold number is not less than 4 (4 or more) (S501e: NO), the start opening winning process is terminated, and the second special symbol hold number is less than 4. If it is determined that there is (S501e: YES), the second special symbol determination value is acquired and stored in a predetermined area of the RAM (S501f). The second special symbol determination value includes a second special symbol success / failure determination value, a second symbol determination value, a second reach determination value, and the like. Thereby, the number of second special symbol reservation increases by one.

  Next, returning to FIG. 5A, it is determined whether or not the big hit game is being played (whether or not the big hit game flag is ON) (S502). As a result, when it is determined that the big hit game is being played (the big hit game flag is ON) (S502: YES), the special symbol game process is terminated and the big hit game is not being played (the big hit game flag is OFF). ) (S502: NO), it is determined whether or not the special symbol (the first special symbol or the second special symbol) is changing (S503).

  As a result, when it is determined that the special symbol is changing (S503: YES), the process proceeds to S511 described later, and when it is determined that the special symbol is not changing (S503: NO). Then, it is determined whether or not it is during the special symbol stop display time (S504). Here, the stop display time of the special symbol is a time for determining the special symbol stopped and displayed. In this embodiment, the stop display time of the special symbol is “1 second”. If it is determined that it is during the special symbol stop display time (S504: YES), the process proceeds to S515 described later, and if it is determined that it is not during the special symbol stop display time (S504). : NO), it is determined whether or not the number of second special symbol hold is zero (S506). As a result, when it is determined that the number of second special symbol reservation is zero (S506: YES), it is determined whether or not the number of first special symbol reservation is zero (S507).

  If it is determined that the number of first special symbol reservation is not zero (S507: NO), the first special symbol variation display process is performed (S508). If it is determined in the determination process of S506 that the second special symbol hold number is not zero (S506: NO), a second special symbol variation display process is performed (S509). That is, if it is determined in the determination process of S506 that the second special symbol hold number is not zero (S506: NO), the first special symbol hold number is not zero (even if it is 1 or more). 2. The special symbol variation display process is executed. Thereby, the variation display of the second special symbol is performed in preference to the first special symbol, and the priority variation function of the second special symbol is realized by the determination processing in S506.

  Here, the first special symbol variation display process (S508) and the second special symbol variation display process (S509) will be described based on the flowchart of FIG. The first special symbol variation display process and the second special symbol variation display process are processes having the same contents. That is, the “special symbol” in FIG. 7 becomes “first special symbol” in the first special symbol variation display process, only “second special symbol” in the second special symbol variation display process, and the others are the same. is there. Hereinafter, the first special symbol variation display process (S508) will be described, and the description of the second special symbol variation display process (S509) will be omitted.

  First, a special symbol success / failure determination value (a success / failure determination value acquired when a game ball enters the start port 28) stored in a predetermined area (holding storage area) of the RAM of the main control unit 200 is read (S508a). A special symbol success / failure determination is performed (S508b). In the special symbol success / failure determination, when the probability variation function is in operation (probability change game), it is determined whether the determination result is a big hit (high probability state) using the high probability determination table. If it is determined that the probability variation function is not in operation (in normal game), the normal probability determination table is used to determine whether the determination result is a big hit (low probability state). Make a decision.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the result of the special symbol success / failure determination (S508b) is a big hit (S508c). As a result, when it is determined that it is a big hit (S508c: YES), a big hit hour variation pattern table setting process is performed (S508d). On the other hand, when it is determined that it is not a big hit (S508c: NO), a small hit determination is further performed to determine whether or not the result is a small hit (S508e). As a result, when it is determined that the game is a small hit (S508e: YES), a small hit hour variation pattern table setting process is performed (S508f). On the other hand, when it is determined that it is not a small hit (S508e: NO), a variation pattern table setting process at the time of disconnection is performed (S508g).

  Next, the variation pattern determination value is acquired, and the symbol determination value (the symbol determination value acquired when the game ball enters the start port 28) stored in a predetermined area of the RAM of the main control unit 200 is read ( S508h).

  Next, a variation pattern and a stop symbol of the special symbol are determined (S508i). As the special symbol variation pattern, the variation pattern determination value acquired in S508h is used to select a specific variation pattern from the variation pattern table set in any one of S508d, S508f, and S508g. Each variation pattern table set in the processing of S508d, S508f, and S508g is associated with a variation pattern determination value and a variation pattern, and the variation corresponding to the variation pattern determination value acquired in S508h. The pattern is determined as the variation pattern used this time. Also, the special symbol stop symbol is set in the symbol determination table stored in the predetermined area of the main control unit 200 using the symbol determination value read in S508h when the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is a big hit. When the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is a small hit, it is determined as a small hit symbol, and when the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is out of the game, it is determined as a lost symbol. As with the variation pattern table, the symbol determination table also associates the symbol determination value with each jackpot symbol, and the jackpot symbol corresponding to the symbol determination value read in S508h is the jackpot that is stopped this time. It is determined as a symbol.

  Next, according to the stop symbol and the variation pattern determined in the process of S508i, the first special symbol display unit 61 or the second special symbol display unit 62 starts the variation display of the special symbol (S508j), 1 is subtracted (S508k), and a symbol change start command is transmitted to the sub-control unit 260 (S508l). The “design variation start command” includes a variation pattern designation command, a special symbol information designation command, and a hold count designation command. The variation pattern designation command is a command for designating the variation pattern of the special symbol determined in the processing of S508i, and the special symbol information designation command is a command for designating the stop symbol of the special symbol similarly determined in the processing of S508i. is there. The number-of-holds designation command is a command for designating the number of special symbols held after the start of variable symbol display. When this symbol variation start command is transmitted to the sub-control unit 260, the symbol variation effect (effect symbol variation display) is started under the control of the sub-control unit 260 and the effect display control unit 280 that have received these commands. The processing up to this point is when the special symbol variation display is started.

  Next, returning to FIG. 5A, if it is determined that the first special symbol hold number is zero (S507: YES), it can be determined that the symbol variation game is not being executed, so the game is stopped. A game stop designation command indicating that has occurred is transmitted to the sub-control unit 260 (S510).

  Next, when it is determined in S503 that the special symbol (the first special symbol or the second special symbol) is changing (S503: YES), the changing display time of the changing special symbol has elapsed. It is determined whether or not there is (S511). As a result, when it is determined that the special symbol variation display time has not elapsed (S511: NO), it is determined that the special symbol game processing is terminated and the special symbol variation display time has elapsed. In this case (S511: YES), the special symbol change display is stopped (S512), and the special symbol change command indicating that the special symbol change display is stopped is transmitted to the sub-control unit 260 (S513). A stop display time is set (S514).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the special symbol stop symbol display time has elapsed (S515). As a result, when it is determined that the special symbol stop symbol display time has not elapsed (S515: NO), the special symbol game processing is terminated, and it is determined that the special symbol stop symbol display time has elapsed. If it is (S515: YES), the stop symbol of the special symbol stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display unit 61 or the second special symbol display unit 62 is a winning symbol (big hit symbol or small hit symbol) Is determined (S516 in FIG. 5B). As a result, when it is determined that the stop symbol of the special symbol is a winning symbol (S516: YES), the type of current hit and the current gaming state flag (probability change flag) are stored in a predetermined area of the RAM of the main control unit 200. The state of the fluctuation shortening flag and the release extension flag) is stored (S517).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the winning symbol stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display unit 61 or the second special symbol display unit 62 is a small hit symbol (S518). As a result, if it is determined that the stop symbol that has been stopped is not a small symbol (S518: NO), it is further determined whether or not the symbol that has been stopped is a 2R big hit symbol (S519). . As a result, when it is determined that the stop symbol that has been stopped is not the 2R big hit symbol, that is, when the hit symbol that has been stopped is the 15R probability variable big hit symbol or the normal big hit symbol (S519: NO), the first The big winning prize opening / closing pattern for big hit is selected and set (S520). On the other hand, when it is determined that the winning symbol that is stopped and displayed is a 2R big hit symbol (S519: YES), the second big hit big opening opening / closing pattern is selected and set (S521). Then, the big hit game flag is set to ON (S522). Thereby, the big hit game is started according to the big winning opening / closing pattern set in the process of S520 or S521.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the probability change flag is set to ON (S523). If it is determined that the probability change flag is not set to ON (S523: NO), the process proceeds to S525, and the probability change is determined. If it is determined that the flag is set to ON (S523: YES), the probability variation flag is set to OFF (S524). As a result, the probability variation function stops operating with the start of the big hit game.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the fluctuation shortening flag is set to ON (S525). As a result, when it is determined that the fluctuation shortening flag is not set to ON (S525: NO), the special symbol game process is terminated, and when it is determined that the fluctuation shortening flag is set to ON. (S525: YES), the fluctuation shortening flag is set to OFF (S526), and the open extension flag is set to OFF (S527). Thereby, with the start of the big hit game, the operation of the variable time shortening function and the open time extending function stops.

  On the other hand, when it is determined in the determination process of S518 that the winning symbol stopped on the first special symbol display unit 61 or the second special symbol display unit 62 is a small symbol (S518: YES), The small winning big opening / closing pattern is selected and set (S528), and the small winning game flag is set ON (S529). Thereby, the small hit game is started in accordance with the big hit prize opening / closing pattern for small hit set in the process of S528.

  The small winning big winning opening / closing pattern set in the processing of S528 is the same as the second big winning big opening opening / closing pattern set in the processing of S521. For this reason, when the game per short opening (second probability variation big hit game, small hit game) occurs, the opening / closing operation of the big winning opening 33a is performed in a common (same) manner, so the operating mode of the big winning opening 33a Therefore, it is difficult to determine (obtain) which of the second probability variation big hit games or the small hit games is being executed among the short-open games.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the fluctuation shortening flag is ON (S530). As a result, when it is determined that the variation shortening flag is not ON (S530: NO), the special symbol game process is terminated, and when it is determined that the variation shortening flag is ON (S530: YES), the variation shortening is performed. The counter is decremented by “1” (S531), and it is determined whether or not the fluctuation shortening counter has become “zero” (S532). When it is determined that the fluctuation shortening counter is not “zero” (S532: NO), the special symbol game process is terminated, and when it is determined that the fluctuation shortening counter is “zero” (S532: YES). ), The fluctuation shortening flag is set to OFF (S526), and the open extension flag is set to OFF (S527). As a result, the fluctuation time shortening function and the open time extending function stop operating.

  Next, in the determination process of S516, it is determined that the stop symbol of the special symbol stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display unit 61 or the second special symbol display unit 62 is not a winning symbol (big hit symbol or small hit symbol). If it is detected (in the case of a missing symbol) (S516: NO), it is determined whether or not the fluctuation shortening flag is ON (S533). As a result, if it is determined that the fluctuation shortening flag is not ON (S533: NO), the special symbol game process is terminated. On the other hand, when it is determined that the fluctuation shortening flag is ON (S533: YES), “1” is subtracted from the fluctuation shortening counter (S534). The fluctuation shortening counter is for monitoring the operating period of the fluctuation time shortening function and the open time extending function, and a predetermined set value is set in the processing of S609e and S609f (see FIG. 9) described later.

  Then, it is determined whether or not the fluctuation shortening counter obtained by subtracting “1” in S534 is “zero” (S535). As a result, when it is determined that the fluctuation shortening counter is not “zero” (S535: NO), the special symbol game process is terminated, and when it is determined that the fluctuation shortening counter is “zero” (S535). : YES), the fluctuation shortening flag is set to OFF (S536), and the release extension flag is set to OFF (S537).

  As a result, the fluctuation time shortening function and the open time extending function stop operating. Then, a mode designation command indicating a fluctuation mode (high probability normal fluctuation mode or low probability normal fluctuation mode) in which the fluctuation time shortening function and the open time extension function do not operate is transmitted to the sub-control unit 260 (S538). Upon receiving this mode designation command, the sub-control unit 260 displays characters, characters, backgrounds, and the like indicating that the variable time shortening function and the open time extending function are inactive (normal state). Process to be displayed.

  Next, the winning game process (S600) will be described based on the flowchart of FIG. First, it is determined whether or not a winning game is in progress (whether the big hit game flag or the small hit flag is ON) (S601). As a result, when it is determined that the winning game is not in progress (the big hit game flag and the small hit flag are OFF) (S601: NO), the winning game process is terminated and the winning game is in progress (the big hit game flag or If it is determined that the small winning flag is ON) (S601: YES), it is determined whether or not the big winning opening 33a is being opened (S602). As a result, when it is determined that the special winning opening 33a is being opened (S602: YES), it is determined whether or not the opening time of the special winning opening 33a has elapsed (S603), and the special winning opening 33a is determined. When it is determined that the opening time has not elapsed (S603: NO), it is determined whether or not the specified winning number 33a has been won (whether or not the specified number of game balls have entered). (S604).

  As a result, when it is determined that the prescribed number of winnings has not been won in the big winning opening 33a (S604: NO), the winning game process is terminated and the prescribed winning number has been won in the big winning opening 33a. When it is determined (S604: YES) or when it is determined that the opening time of the special winning opening 33a has elapsed (S603: YES), the special winning opening 33a is closed (S605).

  If it is determined in the determination process of S602 that the special winning opening 33a is not open (S602: NO), it is determined whether or not a winning game end condition is satisfied (S606). In the determination process of S606, if the hit game currently being executed is the first big hit game, it is determined whether or not the number of rounds of the big hit game has reached 15 rounds, and the currently executed hit game is the second big hit game. If it is, it is determined whether or not the number of rounds of the big hit game has reached two rounds. If the hit game currently being executed is a small hit game, has the number of times of opening the big prize winning opening 33a been reached? Determine whether or not.

  As a result, when it is determined that the winning game end condition is not satisfied (S606: NO), it is determined whether or not the closing time (interval time) of the special winning opening 33a has elapsed (S607). When it is determined that the closing time of the special winning opening 33a has not elapsed (S607: NO), the winning game process is terminated and it is determined that the closing time of the special winning opening 33a has elapsed. (S607: YES), the special winning opening 33a is opened (S608).

  If it is determined in the determination process of S606 that the winning game end condition is satisfied (S606: YES), a winning game end process is performed (S609). Here, the winning game end process (S609) will be described based on the flowchart of FIG.

  First, the winning game flag (big hit game flag or small hit game flag) is set to OFF (S609a), and a winning game end designation command indicating that the winning game is ended is transmitted to the sub-control unit 260 (S609b).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the current big hit is a probabilistic big hit (S609c). As a result, when it is determined that the probability variation is a big hit (S609c: YES), the probability variation flag is set to ON (S609d). As a result, the probability variation function starts to operate with the end of the big hit game. Then, “10,000” is set in the fluctuation shortening counter (S609e). On the other hand, when it is determined that the probability variation is not big hit (S609c: NO), "100" is set to the fluctuation shortening counter (S609f).

  Next, the fluctuation shortening counter is set to ON (S609g), and the open extension flag is set to ON (S609h). As a result, the fluctuation time shortening function and the opening time extension function start to operate with the end of the big hit game. Then, a game state designation command indicating the operating state of the probability variation function, variation time shortening function, and opening time extension function is transmitted to the sub-control unit 260 (S609i).

  Next, the specific effect process executed by the sub control unit 260 and the effect display control unit 280 will be described with reference to FIG. In the specific effect process shown in FIG. 10, the CPU 260b mounted on the sub control board 260a executes a process based on a program stored in a ROM (not shown) (an internal ROM of the CPU 260b or a ROM mounted on the sub control board 260a). And processing executed by the CPU 280b mounted on the effect display control board 280a based on a program stored in a ROM (not shown) (an internal ROM of the CPU 280b or a ROM mounted on the effect display control board 280a). .

  In the specific effect process, as shown in the flowchart of FIG. 10, it is determined whether or not the effect execution counter exceeds “0” (S700). The “production execution counter” is a counter for counting the number of symbol fluctuations until the execution time of the specific production is reached, and an initial value (“50” in this embodiment) is set in the processing of S702 described later at the end of the winning game. The counter is configured as a count-down counter that is set and subtracted in the process of S706 every time the special symbols (first special symbol and second special symbol) are displayed in a variable manner.

  As a result of the determination process in S700, when it is determined that the effect execution counter exceeds “0” (S700: YES), the process proceeds to S703 described later. On the other hand, if it is determined that the performance execution counter does not exceed “0” (S700: NO), whether or not a hit game end designation command transmitted by the main control unit 200 in the process of S609b (FIG. 9) has been received. It is determined whether or not (S701).

  As a result, when it is determined that the winning game end designation command has not been received (S701: NO), the specific effect execution process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that the winning game end designation command has been received (S701: YES), “50” is set as the initial value in the effect execution counter (S702).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the game stop designation command transmitted by the main control unit 200 in the process of S510 (FIG. 5A) is received (S703). As a result, when it is determined that the game stop designation command has not been received (S703: NO), the process proceeds to S705. On the other hand, if it is determined that a game stop designation command has been received (S703: YES), a notice effect is executed (S704). Since the value set in the effect execution counter at the time when the notice condition is satisfied is the remaining number of fluctuations of the special symbol until the specific effect is executed, the specific effect is executed based on the effect execution counter in the notice effect. The effect which notifies the number of remaining fluctuations of the special symbol until is executed.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the symbol variation start command transmitted by the main control unit 200 in the processing of S508l and S509l (FIG. 7) has been received (S705). As a result, when it is determined that the symbol variation start command has not been received (S705: NO), the specific effect execution process ends. On the other hand, when it is determined that the symbol variation start command has been received (S705: YES), the effect execution counter is decremented by "1" (S706).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the effect execution counter is “0” (S707). As a result, when it is determined that the effect execution counter is not “0” (S707: NO), the specific effect execution process ends. On the other hand, when it is determined that the effect execution counter is “0” (S707: YES), the story reach effect is executed as the specific effect (S708).

  In the present embodiment described above, the content of the specific effect (story reach effect) scheduled to be executed is triggered by the fact that a predetermined notice condition is satisfied (in this embodiment, a game stop state has occurred). A notice effect that is notified in advance is executed. This notice effect is performed regardless of whether or not the special symbol determination value corresponding to the symbol variable game for which the specific effect is executed is stored, so the symbol corresponding to the special symbol determination value that has not been stored yet. A specific effect scheduled to be executed in a variable game (a symbol variable game in which the execution start condition is not satisfied) can be notified. Thereby, the content of the specific effect performed in the symbol variation game corresponding to the special symbol determination value before being stored exceeds the maximum number of stored special symbol determination values (holding upper limit number) in advance. It is possible to provide a new game characteristic that can be played, and to improve the gaming interest.

  In the present embodiment, the notice condition is established when a game stop state occurs, and the notice effect is executed. Thereby, expectation for a specific performance scheduled to be performed in the future can be held, and the game can be continued. As a result, the end of the game can be postponed, and the operating rate of the gaming machine can be improved. Moreover, the control part which performs a notice effect (notification effect) is called a notice effect execution means (notification effect execution means).

  Here, the correspondence between this embodiment and each means of the present invention will be described. The “first special symbol determination value” and the “second special symbol determination value” are the “entrance information” of the present invention. The “big hit game” and the “small hit game” correspond to the “special game” of the present invention, and the “main control unit 200” corresponds to the “entrance information storage means” and the “symbol variable game execution means” of the present invention. ”,“ Special game execution means ”,“ game stop detection means ”, and“ sub control unit 260 and effect display control unit 280 ”correspond to“ specific effect execution means ”and“ notification effect execution means ”of the present invention. doing.

(Other embodiments)
As mentioned above, although the Example of this invention was described, this invention is not limited to this, Unless it deviates from the range described in each claim, it is not limited to the description word of each claim, and those skilled in the art Improvements based on the knowledge that a person skilled in the art normally has can be added as appropriate to the extent that they can be easily replaced.

  For example, in the above-described embodiment, the notice condition is configured to be satisfied when the game stop state occurs. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the notice condition may be a different condition. For example, when a predetermined determination value (random number) is acquired, a notice condition can be established. As the determination value, an existing determination value such as a special symbol determination value or a symbol determination value may be used, or a dedicated determination value for determining whether or not the notice condition is satisfied may be used.

  In the above-described embodiment, when the notice condition is satisfied, the notice effect is performed regardless of whether or not the special symbol hold corresponding to the symbol variation game in which the specific effect is performed is stored. Alternatively, the notice effect may be configured to be performed only when the special symbol hold corresponding to the symbol variation game in which the specific effect is performed is not stored (when the execution start condition of the symbol variation game is not satisfied). .

  Moreover, in the said Example, although comprised so that a story reach production may be performed as a specific production, you may set a different kind of production as not only this but a specific production. For example, a reach effect such as a super reach effect, a premium reach effect, or a notice effect such as a step-up notice effect can be performed as the specific effect. Also, if the probability non-notification state after the end of the second big hit game or the small hit game, the game state notification effect for notifying the game state (the operation state of the probability variation function) may be performed as the specific effect. Good. In addition, in a gaming machine that executes a pseudo continuous variation effect that performs a variation display and stop display (unit variation of the effect symbol) multiple times during one special symbol game, the pseudo continuous variation effect is performed as a specific effect. You may comprise.

  Further, in the above embodiment, the specific effect is executed only in one symbol variation game after the winning game is finished. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a predetermined range of symbol variation games (for example, the winning game is terminated). The specific effect may be executed in the 50 to 60th symbol variation game from the beginning, or a plurality of symbol variation games (for example, the symbol variation game every 100 times after the winning game ends, or 50 The specific effects may be executed in the first, 77th, and 100th symbol variation games).

  Moreover, when performing a specific effect by a some symbol variation game, the content of the specific effect performed by each symbol variation effect can be varied. For example, in a configuration in which a specific effect is performed in the 50th, 77th, and 100th symbol variation games after the winning game is ended, a reach effect is achieved in the 50th symbol variation game, and a gaming state is notified in the 77th symbol variation game. The step-up notice effect can be executed in the effect and the 100th symbol variation game. Thereby, the variation of the specific effect notified by a notice effect increases, and it can respond also to various tastes of a player.

  In addition, when a specific effect is executed with a plurality of symbol variation effects, a specific effect that is a target of the notice effect can be arbitrarily set, and a notification mode of the specific effect in the notice effect can be diversified.

  For example, when a specific effect is executed with a plurality of symbol variation effects, the notice effect may be executable for all of the specific effects executed with each of the plurality of symbol variation effects. The notice effect may be executable with respect to the specific effect executed in step S2.

  Further, when a specific effect is executed with a plurality of symbol variation effects, the specific effect to be notified by the notice effect may be a specific effect scheduled to be executed most recently, It may be a specific effect scheduled to be executed after the effect. Specifically, in a configuration in which a specific effect is executed in every 100 symbol variation games after the winning game ends, when the notice condition is satisfied in the 180th symbol varying game after the winning game ends, In the notice effect, the content of the specific effect executed in the 200th symbol variable game can be notified, or the content of the specific effect executed in the 300th symbol variable game can be notified. Thereby, the notification aspect of the specific effect in the notice effect can be diversified.

  In the above embodiment, the game balls supplied from the island facilities in the game hall are used as “rental balls” or “prize balls”, and various winning holes (first start port, second start port) provided on the game board are used. To a gaming machine (pachinko machine) that gives a player a gaming profit (game value) by paying out a predetermined number of prize balls according to the number of game balls that enter the mouth, big prize opening, etc.) Although an example in which the invention is applied has been described, the present invention can also be applied to a type of gaming machine that gives gaming profits in a form different from “payout of prize balls”.

  For example, when a game ball is entered into various winning holes, data indicating the amount of profit (the magnitude of the game value) corresponding to the ball is stored in the RAM of the main control unit or the payout control unit. Thus, the present invention can also be applied to a type of gaming machine in which a gaming profit (game value) is given to a player. In this case as well, 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.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Game machine, 28 ... Start-up port, 61 ... 1st special symbol display apparatus, 62 ... 2nd special symbol display apparatus, 200 ... Main control part (entrance information storage means, symbol variable game execution means, special game execution means) , Game stop detection means), 260... Sub-control unit (specific effect execution means, notification effect execution means), 280... Effect display control unit (specific effect execution means, notification effect execution means).

Claims (1)

Entry information storage means for acquiring entry information based on the entry of a game ball into the start opening, and storing the entry information with a predetermined number as an upper limit;
When the entry information is stored in the entry information storage means, a symbol variation game execution means for executing a symbol variation game that displays the symbols in a variable manner on the symbol display device corresponding to the entry information,
Special game execution means for executing a special game advantageous to the player when the result of the symbol variation game is successful;
When variation impressions of the symbol reaches a predetermined number of times, and the specific effect execution means for executing a specific effect in association with the symbol variation game,
A notification effect executing means for executing a notification effect for notifying information related to the specific effect scheduled to be executed;
A game stop detection means for detecting a game stop ,
The notification effect executing means stores the pitch information related to the symbol variation game corresponding to the specific effect scheduled to be executed when the game stop detecting means detects the stop of the game. A gaming machine characterized in that the notification effect can be executed before.

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