JP5825404B1 - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

An object of the present invention is to enable use of an output volume from a speaker at an appropriate volume after a game machine is shipped. An operation unit operated to set a volume, a notification unit capable of executing a predetermined notification, and a notification control unit for controlling the notification unit are provided. When the power is turned on, the notification control unit performs volume setting notification by the notification unit when the volume is set to a predetermined initial setting. Control is performed so that the volume setting notification is not performed when the power is turned on. [Selection] Figure 14

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).

  In gaming machines, sound effects are output from the speakers as the stage progresses during design fluctuation games, big hit games, etc., and the level of output of the speakers is required by the volume setting switch. It can be adjusted accordingly (see Patent Document 1).

JP 2002-143407 A

  Game machines are often shipped in a state where the volume is suppressed as an initial state in order to avoid outputting a large volume when the power is turned on for the first time. For this reason, after the game machine is installed in the game hall, if the game machine is started in the initial state set to a lower volume, the game proceeds in a state where the output volume from the speaker is small and the sound effect is difficult to hear. , There is a risk of a decline in the entertainment interest.

  Therefore, in view of the above points, the present invention has an object to allow a gaming machine to be used with an output volume from a speaker set to an appropriate volume after the gaming machine has been shipped and installed in a gaming hall. To do.

In order to achieve the above object, the gaming machine of the present invention provides:
Operating means operated to set the volume;
A notification means capable of executing a predetermined notification;
Notification control means for controlling the notification means;
With
The notification control means performs volume setting notification by the notification means when the volume is a predetermined initial setting when the power is turned on, and when the operation means is operated after execution of the volume setting notification. Is characterized in that control is performed so that the volume setting notification is not performed when the power is turned on thereafter.

  In this way, by changing the volume setting of the gaming machine after the gaming machine shipped from the manufacturer is installed in the gaming hall by performing the volume setting notification when the volume remains at the initial setting when the power is turned on. Can be urged. Thereby, it can suppress that a game will be performed without the volume of a game machine changing from the state at the time of shipment. In addition, after the volume setting notification based on power-on, if the operation means for volume setting is operated, the volume setting notification is not performed when the power is subsequently turned on. Eliminates the annoyance of volume setting notifications when the power is turned on the next time, even though the initial volume settings were changed using the operating means when the power was turned on for the first time. can do.

In addition, the gaming machine of the present invention has the above configuration,
The notification control unit controls the volume setting notification even when the power is turned on after the operation unit is not operated after the volume setting notification is performed.

  As a result, after the gaming machine shipped from the manufacturer is installed in the gaming hall, the volume setting notification is performed until the operating means for volume setting is operated, and the volume of the gaming machine is in the state at the time of shipment. It is possible to prevent the use (operation) of the gaming machine from being continued without being changed.

In addition, the gaming machine of the present invention has the above configuration,
The notification control means performs control so as not to perform the volume setting notification when the power is turned on after a predetermined notification non-execution instruction is input after execution of the volume setting notification. It is said.

  Thereby, when the setting change of the sound volume based on the operation of the operation means is not intentionally performed, the sound volume setting notification can be prevented from being performed by inputting the notification non-execution instruction.

In addition, the gaming machine of the present invention has the above configuration,
Volume adjusting means capable of adjusting the volume set based on the operation of the operating means is provided.

  Thereby, the sound volume setting by the operation means and the sound volume adjustment by the sound volume adjusting means can be properly used. For example, by providing the operating means on the back side of the game board, only the game hall clerk can adjust the volume using the operating means, and by providing the volume adjusting means on the front side of the gaming machine, It is possible for not only the store clerk but also the player to adjust the volume using the volume adjusting means.

  According to the above configuration of the present invention, after the gaming machine is shipped and installed in the gaming hall, the gaming machine can be used in a state where the output volume from the speaker is set to an appropriate volume.

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 explanatory drawing which shows the example of a display of an effect display apparatus. It is a block diagram which shows schematic structure of an electronic controller. (A) is a front view of a volume setting switch, (b) is an explanatory view showing the volume that can be set with the volume setting switch. (A) is explanatory drawing which shows the example of a display of the item display of an effect related process, (b) is explanatory drawing which shows a volume adjustment screen. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of a screen display of a volume setting alert | report. 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 big hit game process. It is a flowchart which shows processing at the time of big hit game end. It is a flowchart which shows the volume setting alerting | reporting relevant process of 1st Example. It is a flowchart which shows the volume setting alerting | reporting relevant process of 2nd Example. It is a flowchart which shows the volume setting alerting | reporting relevant process of 3rd Example.

(First embodiment)
Hereinafter, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described 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 launching device 12 (see FIG. 4) constituting launching means for launching a game ball onto the game board 20, and a ball feeding device (not shown) for supplying the game ball to the launching device 12. . 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. On the upper surface of the upper plate part 6, an effect button 8 is provided at the center, a menu button 9 on the left side, and a CR operation part 10 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 effect button 8 and the menu button 9 function as input means that can be input by the player, and move downward from the reference position when the player presses and move upward when the press is released. And a push button for returning to the reference position. The effect button 8 and the menu button 9 are each provided with an operation detection switch (not shown) for detecting that when the player presses the button. As such an operation detection switch, a press detection switch that is turned on when the production button 8 or the menu button 9 is pressed by a predetermined amount, a touch switch that detects that the production button 8 or the menu button 9 is touched, or the like is used. be able to.

  In the present embodiment, when the effect button 8 is operated, various effects (operation-corresponding effects) corresponding to the operation, effects related processing described later, and the like are performed. The operation-corresponding effect is an effect that can appear based on the operation of the effect button 8 during execution of a later-described symbol variation effect, hold display effect, jackpot game effect, etc. The effect content is predetermined by the effect pattern Yes. For example, notice effects such as speech notices or cut-in notices that can be executed with symbol variation effects, hold change notice effects that change the hold display mode in the hold display effect to a different mode (special mode) from the normal, and jackpot game effects A promotion effect or the like that can be executed as an operation-related effect can be performed. Further, when the menu button 9 is operated, an item display (menu screen display) for selecting an effect related process to be executed from a plurality of effect related processes is performed. The item display of the effect related process and the effect related process will be described later in detail.

  The CR operation unit 10 is used to make a processing request for a prepaid card unit 13 (CR unit) provided on the left side of the gaming machine 1, and includes a return button 10a for requesting a return of the prepaid card, And a ball lending button 10c for requesting lending. The CR operation unit 10 is provided with a frequency display unit 10b for displaying the remaining frequency of the prepaid card.

  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 firing handle 11 is provided for the player to operate the firing device 12. The firing handle 11 is provided with a touch switch 11a as contact detection means for detecting that the player is touching. On the left side surface of the launch handle 11, a launch stop switch 11b that is operated by the player to temporarily stop the launch of the game ball is disposed.

  The gaming machine 1 is also provided with speakers 12a to 12d for generating sound effects and the like corresponding to the gaming state. The speakers 12 a to 12 d include upper speakers 12 a and 12 b provided on the upper part of the front frame 5 and lower speakers 12 c and 12 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 the present embodiment, a 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. 4) for detecting the passage of a 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. 4) 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. 4) for detection and a start opening solenoid 28c (see FIG. 4) for operating the pair of blade pieces are provided. 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 through). Thus, the second start port 28b is in a closed state (first mode) in which the possibility of entering the game ball becomes small (or the ball cannot enter). On the other hand, 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 larger than usual, and the second start port 28b is likely to enter the game ball. Is in an open state (second mode) in which is increased. 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. And if a special symbol stops and displays with a big hit symbol, it will be in a big hit game permission state.

  The big prize device 33 is disposed below the start port 28. Here, the grand prize winning device 33 is a belt-like big prize opening (variable ball opening) 33a, an opening / closing plate 33b for opening / closing the big winning opening 33a, and for operating the opening / closing plate 33b. The main prize opening solenoid 33c (see FIG. 4) and the big winning opening entrance detection switch 33s (see FIG. 4) for detecting the entry of a game ball are mainly configured.

  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, when the game ball passes through the normal symbol operation gate 27, the normal symbol starts to be displayed in a fluctuating manner. When the normal symbol is stopped and displayed in a preset hit 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. In addition, combinations other than the jackpot symbol are set as outliers. In this embodiment, the special symbol variation display is performed by blinking display in which each LED is repeatedly turned on and off.

  Based on the game ball entering the first starting port 28a, the first special symbol display device 61 starts to display the variation of the first special symbol, and after the predetermined time has elapsed, the first special symbol is a jackpot symbol or a missed symbol. The symbol variation game of the first special symbol that is stopped and displayed is performed. Also, based on the game ball entering the second start port 28b, the second special symbol display device 62 starts to display the variation of the second special symbol, and after the predetermined time has passed, the second special symbol is a big hit symbol or missed. The symbol variation game of the second special symbol that is stopped and displayed in any of the symbols is performed.

  In the present embodiment, the first special symbol determination value (entrance information) acquired when the game ball enters the first start port 28a and the game ball enters the second start port 28b. A second special symbol determination value (entrance information) to be acquired is provided. The first special symbol judgment value includes a first special symbol success / failure judgment value used for the first special symbol success / failure judgment as to whether or not to execute the jackpot game, and a jackpot symbol judgment for determining a stop symbol of the first special symbol. And a first reach determination value used for reach determination for determining whether or not to perform reach production. Similarly, for the second special symbol determination value, a second special symbol success / failure determination value used for determining whether or not to execute the jackpot game is determined, and a stop symbol of the second special symbol is determined. A second symbol determination value used for jackpot symbol determination 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. That is, the special symbol hold display sections 53 and 54 have special symbol determination values (entry information) acquired by entering a game ball into the start port 28 (first start port 28a, second start port 28b). Is stored in a predetermined area (holding storage area) of the RAM of the main control unit 200.

  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 displayed on the first special symbol hold display unit 53 is acquired every time a game ball enters the first start port 28a and is stored in a predetermined area of the RAM of the main control unit 200 ( This corresponds to the number (stored number) of first special symbol determination values (first special symbol success / failure determination value, first symbol determination value, first reach determination value) stored in the first reserved storage area. 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. The first special symbol hold count is digested and decreased by one each time the first special symbol determination is made and the first special symbol variation display is started.

  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 displayed on the second special symbol hold display unit 54 is acquired every time a game ball enters the second start port 28b and is stored in a predetermined area of the RAM of the main control unit 200 ( This corresponds to the number (stored number) of second special symbol determination values (second special symbol success / failure determination value, second symbol determination value, second reach determination value) stored in the second reserved storage area). 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. The second special symbol hold count is digested each time the second special symbol success / failure determination is performed and the variation display of the second special symbol is started, and decreases 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 symbols (the first special symbol and the second special symbol) are stopped and displayed, the symbol variable game is finished, and when the stop display time elapses, the next symbol variable game is executable. Then, the presence of one or more special symbol holds, the execution condition (symbol change start condition) of the special symbol change game is established, and the special symbol hold (memory information) is stored based on the special symbol hold (memory information) stored first. The symbols are displayed in a variable manner.

  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) for determining whether or not the special symbol is obtained, and the special symbol success / failure acquired at the timing when the game ball enters the first start port 28a or the second start port 28b. When the judgment value matches the big hit value, it becomes “big hit”, and when it does not match, it becomes “out”. 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 on the first special symbol display device 61 is a display mode (hit mode) indicating a big hit (a specific mode) Determined). On the other hand, when it is determined that the first special symbol is determined to be out, the first special symbol displayed on the first special symbol display device 61 is a display pattern (disappearance mode) indicating that the first special symbol is out. Special mode). Similarly, if the second special symbol is determined to be a big hit in the second special symbol success / failure determination, the second special symbol that is stopped and displayed on the second special symbol display device 62 is a big win symbol that is a display mode (hit mode) indicating a big hit ( If the second special symbol display device 62 determines that the second special symbol is out of place when the second special symbol is determined to be off in the second special symbol success / failure determination. Are determined to be outliers (non-special aspects).

  The special symbol is configured to display a variation based on a predetermined variation 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 in accordance with 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 out of the range. And a deviation variation pattern table. The deviation variation patterns stored in the deviation variation pattern table include a “normal deviation variation pattern (reach variation pattern without reach)” without a reach effect and a “reach variation pattern with reach” effect. 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 / absence of the reach effect is determined by reach determination using the reach determination value acquired when the game ball enters the start opening 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 symbol of first special symbol The determination of the stop symbol of the second special symbol, the change display and stop display of the first special symbol, the change display and stop display of the second special symbol, and the priority change of the second special symbol are performed by the main control unit 200 described later. Configured to be done.

  Next, the jackpot 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 aforementioned jackpot symbol (specific mode) (when the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is a big hit), The condition device is activated. Here, the condition device is a device that is a condition for operating the accessory continuous operation device. The condition device is configured mainly by a CPU 200b of the main control unit 200 described later, and starts operating when a special symbol is stopped and displayed as a big hit symbol. Further, the accessory continuous operation device is a device that is configured mainly by the CPU 200b of the main control unit 200 and continuously operates the big prize device 33 to continuously open the big prize port 33a. A big hit game (specific game) advantageous to the player is executed by operating the accessory continuous operation device. Note that the jackpot game flag is set to ON while the jackpot game is being executed.

  In the big hit game, by operating the big winning device 33 (by opening and closing the big winning port 33a a plurality of times), it is possible to enter the game ball into the big winning port 33a. Is provided with a profit (prize ball), which is realized by repeatedly executing a big 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. That is, the winning ball is paid out by detecting the passing of the game ball by the big winning port entrance ball detection switch 33s arranged in the big winning port 33a.

  The big winning device 33 is continuously operated by the start of the big hit game, and the open state where the game ball can enter the open state (a state where the game ball can enter) and the closed state where the game ball cannot enter (the ball enters) The special prize opening / closing operation for switching to the disabled state is continuously performed a plurality of times. 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). When the game in which the big winning opening 33a is opened is “round game”, the number of rounds that can be continued in one big hit game (15 rounds in this embodiment) is set. When the round winning game 33a is closed and the round game is ended, after a predetermined interval time (2 seconds in this embodiment), the big winning port 33a is opened and the next round game is started. .

  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 open time extension function, and the probability variation function are activated, the special 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”. Hereinafter, the state in which the variable time shortening function and the open time extending function are activated is also referred to as a “short time state”. Therefore, the above-mentioned (a) “probability change state with electric support” is “probability change state and short time state”, and (c) “non-probability change state with electric support” is simply “time reduction state”.

  As described above, when the special symbol stop symbol is a normal jackpot symbol, after the jackpot game is finished, the “variable time shortening function” and “opening time extension function” are activated without operating the probability variation function. The “non-probability change state with support” (short-time state) is started. The non-probable change state (time reduction 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 (time reduction state) with electric support is configured to continue until the number of executions of the special symbol change display (or stop display) reaches the predetermined number after the big hit game ends. Set as number of times. The non-probable change state (short-time state) with electric support is configured to continue until the number of executions of the special symbol change display (or stop display) reaches a predetermined number (100 in this embodiment) after the big hit game ends. The predetermined number is set as the number of time reductions.

  In addition, when the special symbol stop symbol is a probable big hit symbol, after the big hit game ends, the probability variation function, the variable time shortening function, and the open time extension function are activated, and the “predictable state with electric support” is started. The A jackpot game started by a probable jackpot game is also referred to as a “probable jackpot game”. 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 (determination probability) together with the variable time reduction function and the open time extension function. In other words, the probability fluctuation function is activated to increase the probability that the special symbol is stopped and displayed as a big hit symbol. The probability variation state with the electric support is configured to continue until the next jackpot game is started after the jackpot game ends. That is, both the “probability change state” and the “short time state” are continued until the next big hit game is started.

  When the probability variation function is activated (probability variation state), 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 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 activated, 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, 1/100). 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). )

  In the gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment, the effect display device 25 generates a symbol variation effect in response to the special symbol variation game performed using the first special symbol display device 61 or the second special symbol display device 62. Done. As the symbol variation effect, for example, in accordance with the variation 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, an effect symbol (effect image) composed of numeric symbols. ) And a display using a character (also referred to as a character design) executed in addition to a reach effect performed during the variation display of the effect symbol, a variation display of the effect symbol, or during a variation display of the effect symbol. Examples include effects performed using characters. In addition, various effects including an effect executed during a hit game, an effect indicating that the game has been won (fanfare effect), an effect indicating that the game has ended (ending effect), and a so-called promotion effect Is also referred to as “effect display (specific effect)”. There are a plurality of types of effect contents (effect patterns) of the symbol variation effect, and display data (image data) for these effects is stored in the ROM of the effect display control unit 280.

  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. FIG. 3 is a front view of the effect display device 25. As shown in FIG. 3, the display area V of the effect display device 25 is provided with an effect symbol display unit Va that displays the effect symbols in a variable manner. In the symbol variation effect, the effect symbol is displayed in conjunction with the variation 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. That is, the effect display device 25 functions as a symbol display device in the same manner as the first special symbol display device and the second special symbol display device 62. In addition, in the display area V of the effect display device 25, the effect symbol display unit Va in which the effect symbols are variably displayed, and the display unit excluding the effect symbol display unit Va display characters, figures, symbols, characters (character designs), and the like. A background display portion Vb (character display portion) is displayed on which various background images are displayed. In other words, in the present embodiment, the background display portion Vb and the effect symbol display portion Va overlap a part of the display region or the entire display region on the display region V. The effect symbol display portion Va and the background display portion Vb may be completely partitioned so as not to overlap. The effect symbol display portion Va and the background display portion Vb 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 symbols 25a to 25c, and the effect symbol display portion Va has a left effect symbol 25a, a medium effect symbol 25b, and a right effect. Three symbols of symbol 25c are displayed. The effect symbol display portion Va is set in a direction substantially orthogonal to the arrangement direction of each symbol display portion, in this case, the symbol variation direction in the vertical direction (vertical direction).

  In the symbol variation effect, when the first special symbol or the second special symbol starts variable display, the effect symbol starts variable display. Then, when the first special symbol or the second special symbol is stopped and displayed on any of the symbols and the symbol variation effect is finished, the effect symbol is a mode (a hit mode) corresponding to the stop symbol of the first special symbol or the second special symbol Alternatively, a result notification effect that is stopped and displayed in the off mode) is performed. In the effect design, the symbol combination with the same three digits becomes a special mode (success mode) corresponding to the special symbol jackpot symbol, and the other symbol combinations become the non-special mode (out mode) corresponding to the special symbol losing symbol. .

  The change of the effect symbol (effect pattern) and the stop symbol are determined by the sub-control unit 260 based on the change 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 (determination result) of the special symbol. And based on the variation pattern of the special symbol 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 Va. 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 Va.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the display area of the effect display device 25 is provided with a first hold display section 25d and a second hold display section 25e. The first hold display unit 25d is displayed in conjunction with the first special symbol hold display unit 53, and displays a number of circular figures “◯” corresponding to the first special symbol hold number. The second hold display unit 25e is displayed in conjunction with the second special symbol hold display unit 54, and the number of circular figures “◯” corresponding to the second special symbol hold number is displayed. That is, similar to the special symbol hold display units 53 and 54, the hold display units 25d and 25e are acquired by entering a game ball into the start port 28 (first start port 28a and second start port 28b). Storage information indicating that the special symbol determination value (entrance information) is stored in a predetermined area (holding storage area) of the RAM of the main control unit 200 is displayed.

  In the hold display sections 25d and 25e of the present embodiment, the leftmost circle figure “◯” indicates the hold stored first, and the hold newly stored in order toward the right side. Every time the number of special symbols held changes, a “holding number designation command” indicating the number of holds after the change is transmitted from the main control unit 200 to the sub-control unit 260, and the display area of the effect display device 25 is displayed. The special symbol hold display is performed under the control of the sub-control unit 260 and the effect display control unit 280 based on the hold number designation command.

  In the display area V of the effect display device 25, in addition to the symbol variation effect in accordance with the variation display of the special symbol, a hold display effect for displaying the number of special symbol holds and a jackpot game effect accompanying the progress of 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.

  Next, the electronic control device of the gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the electronic control device.

  As shown in FIG. 4, 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. The RAM data of the payout control unit 230 is 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 12a to 12d, 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 12a to 12d that output various sounds, sounds, and the like in accordance with the progress of the game. Furthermore, the production buttons 8 (the middle button 8a, the left button 8b, and the right button 8c) are connected to the sub-control unit 260 via the production button board 264. The sub-control unit 260 is based on various commands from the main control unit 200 and the production button 8 (middle button 8a, left button 8b, right button 8c) (reception of variation pattern designation command, input of production button operation signal, etc.). Various LED / lamp lighting / flashing pattern selection / execution processing, sound effect data selection / output processing output from the speakers 12a to 12d, and design variation effect execution pattern (effect pattern) on the effect display device 25 ) Selection processing, symbol variation production execution processing based on the execution pattern, and the like.

  The sub control unit 260 is connected to a volume setting switch 265 for adjusting the volume output from the speakers 12a to 12d. The volume setting switch 265 is provided in the sub-control unit 260 on the back side of the game board 20 and can be operated by opening the front frame 5. Therefore, the volume setting switch 265 can be operated by a game hall clerk.

  FIG. 5A is a front view of the volume setting switch 265 of this embodiment, and FIG. 5B shows the volume value that can be adjusted by the volume setting switch 265. As shown in FIG. 5A, the volume setting switch 265 of the present embodiment is configured as a rotary switch, and the volume setting value can be changed by changing the switch position by a rotating operation.

  The volume setting switch 265 of the present embodiment is “0”, “1”, “2”, “3”, “4”, “5”, “6”, “7”, “8”, “9”, Twelve switch positions consisting of “A” and “B” are provided. Then, the current volume setting value is set based on the switch position corresponding to the black circle provided on the volume setting switch 265. The volume setting value is stored in the RAM of the sub-control unit 260. The volume setting value data stored in the RAM of the sub-control unit 260 is retained even when the power is turned off. For this reason, in this embodiment, power is also supplied from the backup power supply unit (not shown) to the sub-control unit 260 when the power is turned off.

  As shown in FIG. 5B, in this embodiment, six levels of sound volume are provided. Specifically, the minimum volume (silence) is set to “0”, the maximum volume is set to “100”, and “0”, “20”, “40”, “60”, “80”, “100” are provided. The volume of is set. In this embodiment, the minimum volume “0” is set based on the switch positions “0” and “6”, the volume “20” is set based on the switch positions “1” and “7”, and the switch position “2”. ”And“ 8 ”, the volume“ 40 ”is set, the switch positions“ 3 ”and“ 9 ”are set, the volume“ 60 ”is set, and the switch positions“ 4 ”and“ A ”are set. 80 ”is set, and the maximum volume“ 100 ”is set based on the switch positions“ 5 ”and“ B ”. In the example shown in FIG. 5A, the volume “60” based on the switch position “3” of the volume setting switch 265 is the current volume setting value.

  Also, in this embodiment, when the switch position of the volume setting switch 265 is any one of “0”, “1”, “2”, “3”, “4”, “5”, When the volume adjustment is permitted and the switch position of the volume setting switch 265 is any one of “6”, “7”, “8”, “9”, “A”, “B”, the volume in the effect related processing Adjustment is prohibited.

  Next, production related processing that can be executed by the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment will be described. The production-related processing is processing related to production control that can be executed based on an instruction input from the outside when the gaming machine 1 is in operation (when the power is turned on). For example, “volume adjustment” or “brightness adjustment” For example, a production environment setting such as (brightness adjustment) ”can be given. In the volume adjustment, it is possible to adjust the volume of a sound effect or the like output from the speakers 12a to 12d. In the brightness adjustment (brightness adjustment), an LED provided in the frame lamp unit 5c or an effect display device 25 (liquid crystal display device). The brightness (luminance) can be adjusted.

  FIG. 6A shows an item display (menu screen display) of effect-related processing. As shown in FIG. 6A, the item display of the effect related process is performed using the display area V of the effect display device 25. In the present embodiment, the item display (menu display) of the effect related processing is started by operating the menu button 9 when the symbol changing game (symbol changing effect) of the special symbol is not performed.

  As shown in FIG. 6A, in the item display of the effect related process, the item display unit 25f and the operation instruction unit 25g are displayed in the display area V of the effect display device 25. In the item display section 25f, a list of executable effect-related processes is displayed. In addition, the operation instruction unit 25g includes an image simulating the effect button 8 (the middle button 8a, the left button 8b, and the right button 8c) and a message for prompting the operation of the effect button 8 (“left button: change” “right button: "Change" "Middle button: Confirm") is displayed. Then, with the item display section 25f displaying the item of the effect related process, the left button 8b or the right button 8c is operated to change the effect related process of the selection candidate and operate the middle button 8a. Thus, it is possible to determine the production related process of the selection candidate. FIG. 6A shows the effect-related process in which the effect-related process (volume adjustment) with a diagonal line is a selection candidate. Further, as described above, when the switch position of the volume setting switch 265 is any one of “0”, “1”, “2”, “3”, “4”, “5”, the volume is set as the effect related process. When the adjustment is selectable and the switch position of the volume setting switch 265 is “6”, “7”, “8”, “9”, “A”, “B”, the volume is set as the effect related process. Adjustment cannot be selected. When the volume adjustment cannot be selected, the volume adjustment is performed by hiding or inverting the volume adjustment item on the item display unit 25f, or attaching an “X” mark to the volume adjustment item. It can be notified that selection is impossible. It should be noted that after the start of the display of the items related to the production-related processing, the production button 8 (the middle button 8a, the left button 8b, the right button 8c) is not operated and a predetermined time elapses or the menu button 9 is operated. The related process item display ends.

  FIG. 6B shows a screen display example (volume adjustment screen) when volume adjustment is performed as effect-related processing. In the volume adjustment screen shown in FIG. 6B, the volume adjustment unit 25 h and the operation instruction unit 25 g are displayed in the display area V of the effect display device 25. The volume adjustment unit 25h displays a slide bar for changing the volume setting value.

  On the volume adjustment screen, the volume can be adjusted by changing the position of the slide bar of the volume adjustment unit 25 h based on the operation of the effect button 8. Specifically, the volume can be lowered by moving the slide bar to the left based on the operation of the left button 8b, and the volume can be decreased by moving the slide bar to the right based on the operation of the right button 8c. Can be raised. Moreover, the volume changed based on the operation of the middle button 8a can be determined. For this reason, an image imitating the effect button 8 and “left button: low volume”, “right button: high volume”, and “middle button: enter” are displayed on the operation instruction unit 25g as messages that prompt the operation of the effect button 8. Is done. Since the effect button 8 is provided on the front side of the gaming machine 1, when the volume adjustment screen shown in FIG. 6B is displayed, the effect button 8 by the player or the game hall clerk according to the displayed content. Volume adjustment based on the operation is possible.

  In the volume adjustment screen shown in FIG. 6B, the volume adjustment unit 25h is provided with six stages of slide bar positions “0” to “5”, and the current volume setting value is set based on the slide bar position. Is done. In the present embodiment, the slide bar positions “0” to “5” of the volume adjusting unit 25h correspond to the switch positions “0” to “5” (see FIG. 5) of the volume setting switch 265, respectively. The volume setting value is the same when the volume is adjusted using the switch 265 and when the volume is adjusted using the effect button 8 on the volume adjustment screen. That is, the minimum volume “0 (silence)” is set based on the slide bar position “0”, the volume “20” is set based on the slide bar position “1”, and the volume based on the slide bar position “2”. “40” is set, volume “60” is set based on slide bar position “3”, volume “80” is set based on slide bar position “4”, and volume “80” is set based on slide bar position “5”. The maximum volume “100” is set.

  In this embodiment, when the volume setting value is adjusted based on the operation of the effect button 8 on the volume adjustment screen, the slide bar position can be changed based on the volume setting value set by the volume setting switch 265. It has become. That is, on the volume adjustment screen shown in FIG. 6B, the slide bar position is set to “3 (volume 60)” with reference to the switch position “3” (volume 60) of the volume setting switch 265 shown in FIG. → Change to “4 (volume 80)” → “5 (volume 100)” to increase the volume setting value, or change the slide bar position to “3 (volume 60)” → “2 (volume 40)” It is possible to reduce the volume setting value by changing as “1 (volume 20)” → “0 (volume 0)”. Then, by operating the middle button 8a with the slide bar position set to a desired position, a volume corresponding to the slide bar position is set, and a new volume setting value is determined. When the volume setting value is determined by operating the middle button 8a (decision button), the display of the volume adjustment screen is terminated in the display area V of the effect display device 25, and the item display (menu display) of effect related processing is displayed. Done. In addition, after the volume adjustment screen is displayed, when the predetermined time has passed without the effect buttons 8 (the middle button 8a, the left button 8b, and the right button 8c) being operated, or when the menu button 9 is operated, the volume adjustment screen is displayed. The display ends, and the display returns to the item display (menu display) of the effect related processing.

  Although not shown, when brightness adjustment (brightness adjustment) is performed as an effect-related process, a slide bar is displayed in the display area V of the effect display device 25 as in the volume adjustment screen (see FIG. 6B). The brightness adjustment screen using can be displayed, the brightness can be lowered (darkened) based on the operation of the left button 8b, and the brightness can be raised (lightened) based on the operation of the right button 8c.

  The gaming machine 1 of this embodiment is shipped with the volume setting value set to a predetermined initial value. For this reason, at the stage of being installed in the game hall, the volume setting value of the gaming machine 1 is set to the initial value. In the present embodiment, the initial value of the sound volume setting value is an intermediate sound volume among the six levels of sound volumes “0” to “100” in order to avoid the loud sound output from the speakers 12a to 12d when the power is turned on. “60”. That is, the gaming machine 1 is shipped in a state where the switch position of the volume setting switch 265 is set to “3”. On the other hand, after the gaming machine 1 is installed in the game hall, when the sound volume is started with the sound volume set to the initial value, the output sound volume from the speakers 12a to 12d is small and it may be difficult to hear the sound effect. In this case, the effect that should originally be obtained by various effects performed in accordance with the progress of the game cannot be sufficiently obtained, and there is a possibility that the game interest will be lowered.

  For this reason, in this embodiment, when the volume setting value is set to the initial value “60” when the gaming machine 1 is turned on, the volume setting notification is issued to prompt the change of the volume setting value. Done. The sound volume setting notification is performed using the display area V of the effect display device 25.

  FIG. 7 shows a screen display example of the volume setting notification. As shown in FIG. 7, a volume setting notification unit 25 i for performing volume setting notification is provided in the display area V of the effect display device 25. In the volume setting notification of the present embodiment, the message “Volume is still at the default setting” is displayed in the upper row of the volume setting notification section 25i, and “Adjust the volume with the volume setting switch or volume adjustment screen” in the middle row. Is displayed, and an image simulating the effect button 8 and a message “Middle button: no longer displayed” are displayed in the lower part. After the volume setting notification is performed by the volume setting notification unit 25i, the volume setting value can be changed based on the operation of the volume setting switch 265 or the operation of the effect button 8 on the volume adjustment screen.

  In the present embodiment, after the volume setting notification shown in FIG. 7 is performed, when an operation related to volume setting (operation of the volume setting switch 265 or operation of the effect button 8 while the volume adjustment screen is displayed) is performed, The volume setting notification is not performed at the next power-on of the gaming machine 1. On the other hand, if the operation related to the volume setting (the operation of the volume setting switch 265 or the operation of the effect button 8 while the volume adjustment screen is displayed) is not performed after the volume setting notification shown in FIG. Until the operation is performed, the volume setting notification is performed every time the gaming machine 1 is powered on.

  In addition, after the volume setting notification shown in FIG. 7 is performed, the operation related to the volume setting (the operation of the volume setting switch 265 or the operation of the effect button 8 while the volume adjustment screen is displayed) is not intentionally performed. By operating the middle button 8a of the button 8, future volume setting notification can be canceled. Thus, the volume setting notification is not performed at the next power-on of the gaming machine 1 without performing an operation related to the volume setting (the operation of the volume setting switch 265 or the operation of the effect button 8 while the volume adjustment screen is displayed). Can be.

  Next, the operation of the gaming machine 1 of this embodiment will be described based on a flowchart. FIG. 8 is an example of a main job performed under the control of the main control unit 200. The main job shown in FIG. 8 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 big hit 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 balls have been entered. When it is determined that a prescribed number of balls have been entered at the second start port 28b in the open state or when it is determined that the open time of the second start 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. 9A, 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 a game ball has entered the first start port 28a (S501a), and when it is determined that no game ball has entered the first start port 28a (S501a: NO). , The process proceeds to S501d. On the other hand, when it is determined that a game ball has entered the first start port 28a (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. Then, the first start winning prize command including the hold number designation command indicating the first special symbol hold number is transmitted to the sub-control unit 260.

  Next, it is determined whether or not a game ball has entered the second start port 28b (S501d). If it is determined that no game ball has entered the second start port 28b (S501d: NO) ). The start opening winning process is terminated. On the other hand, when it is determined that a game ball has entered the second start port 28b (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. Then, a second start winning prize command including a hold number designation command indicating the second special symbol hold number is transmitted to the sub-control unit 260.

  Next, returning to FIG. 9A, 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 S510 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. 11 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, the random number for determining whether or not the special symbol is stored in a predetermined area (holding storage area) of the RAM of the main control unit 200 (the random number for determining whether or not the game ball has entered the start opening 28) is read (S508a). ), Special symbol winning / failing 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 variation pattern table setting process at the time of losing is performed (S508e).

  Next, the variable pattern random number is acquired, and the symbol determining random number (the special symbol determining random number acquired when the game ball enters the starting port 28) stored in a predetermined area of the RAM of the main control unit 200. Read (S508f).

  Next, the variation pattern and the stop symbol of the special symbol are determined (S508g). As the special symbol variation pattern, the variation pattern random number acquired in S508h is used to select a specific variation pattern from the variation pattern table set in the processing of S508d or S508e. Note that each variation pattern table set in the processing of S508d and S508e is associated with a variation pattern random value and a variation pattern, and the variation pattern corresponding to the variation pattern random value obtained in S508f is the current variation pattern table. It is determined as a variation pattern to be used. The special symbol stop symbol is a symbol determination table stored in a predetermined area of the main control unit 200 using the special symbol determination random number read in S508f when the result of the special symbol determination is a big hit. If the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is unsuccessful, it is determined as a missed symbol. Similarly to the variation pattern table, the symbol determination table also associates the value of the special symbol determination random number with each jackpot symbol, and the jackpot symbol corresponding to the value of the special symbol determination random number read in S508f is It is determined as a jackpot symbol to be stopped and displayed.

  Next, according to the stop symbol and the variation pattern determined in the processing of S508g, the first special symbol display unit 61 or the second special symbol display unit 62 starts the variation display of the special symbol (S508h), 1 is subtracted (S508i), and a symbol variation start command is transmitted to the sub-control unit 260 (S508j). 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 S508g, 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 S508g. 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. 9A, if it is determined in S503 that the special symbol (the first special symbol or the second special symbol) is changing (S503: YES), the changing special symbol. It is determined whether or not the variable display time has elapsed (S510). As a result, if it is determined that the special symbol variation display time has not elapsed (S510: NO), it is determined that the special symbol game processing is terminated and the special symbol variation display time has elapsed. In this case (S510: YES), the special symbol variation display is stopped (S511), and a special symbol designating command indicating that the special symbol variation display is stopped is transmitted to the sub-control unit 260 (S512). A stop display time is set (S513).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the special symbol stop symbol display time has elapsed (S514). As a result, when it is determined that the special symbol stop symbol display time has not elapsed (S514: 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 (S514: YES), it is determined whether or not the stop symbol of the special symbol stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display device 61 or the second special symbol display device 62 is a big hit symbol (FIG. 9 ( b) S515).

  As a result, when it is determined that the stop symbol of the special symbol is a big hit symbol (S515: YES), the gaming state at the start of the big hit game is stored in a predetermined area of the RAM of the main control unit 200 (S516). The “game state at the time of starting the big hit game” includes the type of the big hit symbol stopped at that time and the setting state of the game state flags (probability change flag, fluctuation shortening flag, release extension flag) at that time Yes.

  Next, the big hit game flag is set to ON (S517). Thereby, the big hit game is started. Then, a jackpot game start command indicating that the jackpot game has started is transmitted to the sub-control unit 260 (S518). The jackpot game start command is provided according to the type of jackpot game. When the sub-control unit 260 receives this command, a jackpot game start effect (fanfare effect) according to the type of jackpot game is performed. Next, it is determined whether or not the probability variation flag is set to ON (S519). As a result, when it is determined that the probability variation flag is not set to ON (S519: NO), the process proceeds to the determination processing of S521, and when it is determined that the probability variation flag is set to ON ( (S519: YES), the probability variation flag is set to OFF (S520). 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 (S521). As a result, when it is determined that the fluctuation shortening flag is not set to ON (S521: NO), the special symbol game process is terminated, and when it is determined that the fluctuation shortening flag is set to ON. (S521: YES), the fluctuation shortening flag is set to OFF (S522), and the open extension flag is set to OFF (S523). Thereby, with the start of the big hit game, the operation of the variable time shortening function and the open time extending function stops.

  Next, in the determination process of S515, when it is determined that the special symbol stopped symbol displayed on the first special symbol display device 61 or the second special symbol display device 62 is not a big hit symbol (in the case of a missed symbol) (S515: NO), it is determined whether or not the fluctuation shortening flag is ON (S524). As a result, if it is determined that the fluctuation shortening flag is not ON (S524: NO), the special symbol game process is terminated. On the other hand, when it is determined that the fluctuation shortening flag is ON (S524: YES), “1” is subtracted from the fluctuation shortening counter (S525).

  Then, it is determined whether or not the fluctuation shortening counter obtained by subtracting “1” in S525 is “zero” (S526). As a result, when it is determined that the fluctuation shortening counter is not “zero” (S526: NO), the special symbol game process is terminated, and when it is determined that the fluctuation shortening counter is “zero” (S526). : YES), the fluctuation shortening flag is set to OFF (S527), and the open extension flag is set to OFF (S528).

  As a result, the fluctuation time shortening function and the open time extending function stop operating. Then, a gaming state designation command indicating that the gaming state is such that the variable time shortening function and the opening time extending function are not activated is transmitted to the sub-control unit 260 (S529). Upon receiving this game state 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) on the effect display device 25. Processing to display in area V is performed.

  Next, the jackpot game process (S600) will be described based on the flowchart of FIG. First, it is determined whether or not the jackpot game is being played (whether or not the jackpot game flag is ON) (S601). As a result, when it is determined that the jackpot game is not being played (the jackpot game flag is OFF) (S601: NO), the jackpot game process is terminated and the jackpot game is being played (the jackpot game flag is ON). Is determined (S601: YES), it is determined whether or not the special 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, if it is determined that the prescribed number of winnings has not been won in the big winning opening 33a (S604: NO), the jackpot game processing 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 being opened (S602: NO), it is determined whether or not a big hit game ending condition is satisfied (S606). In the determination process of S606, it is determined whether the number of rounds has reached “15 rounds”. Then, when the number of rounds reaches “15 rounds”, it is determined that the condition for ending the big hit game is satisfied.

  As a result, when it is determined that the big hit game ending condition is not satisfied (S606: NO), it is determined whether or not the closing time (interval time) of the big winning opening 33a has passed (S607), When it is determined that the closing time of the big prize opening 33a has not elapsed (S607: NO), the big hit game process is terminated, and it is determined that the closing time of the big prize 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 big hit game end condition is satisfied (S606: YES), the big hit game end process is performed (S609). Here, the jackpot game end process (S609) will be described based on the flowchart of FIG.

  First, the big hit game flag is set to OFF (S609a), and it is determined whether or not the current big hit is a probable big hit (S609b). As a result, when it is determined that the probability variation is a big hit (S609b: YES), the probability variation flag is set to ON (S609c). As a result, the probability variation function starts operating with the end of the big hit game. Then, “10,000” is set in the fluctuation shortening counter (S609d). On the other hand, when it is determined that the probability variation is not a big hit (S609b: NO), "100" is set to the fluctuation shortening counter (S609e).

  Next, the fluctuation shortening counter is set to ON (S609f), and the open extension flag is set to ON (S609g). 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 gaming 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 (S609h).

  Next, the sound volume setting notification related process executed by the sub control unit 260 and the effect display control unit 280 will be described with reference to FIG. 14 is executed by the CPU 260b mounted on the sub-control board 260a 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). ing. The volume setting notification related process is a process executed when the gaming machine 1 is powered on.

  In the volume setting notification related process shown in FIG. 14, first, it is determined whether or not the volume operation flag is set to ON (S700). The volume operation flag is an operation related to volume setting (operation of the volume setting switch 265 or operation of the effect button 8 during display of the volume setting screen) or cancellation of the volume setting notification after the volume setting notification is executed in the processing of S703 described later. A flag indicating that an operation has been performed. The contents of the volume operation flag are retained even when the gaming machine 1 is powered off.

  As a result of the determination process in S700, when it is determined that the volume operation flag is set to ON (S700: YES), the volume setting notification related process is terminated. On the other hand, when it is determined that the volume operation flag is not set to ON (S700: NO), the current volume setting state is acquired (S701). The volume setting state can be acquired by reading the volume setting value stored in the sub-control unit 260.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the volume setting value of the gaming machine 1 is an initial setting (S702). In this embodiment, since the initial setting value of the volume setting value is “60”, it may be determined whether or not the volume setting value acquired in S701 is “60”. As a result of the determination process in S702, if it is determined that the volume setting value is not the initial setting (S702: NO), the volume setting notification related process is terminated. On the other hand, when it is determined that the volume setting value is the initial setting (S702: YES), the volume setting notification (see FIG. 7) is executed using the display area V of the effect display device 25 (S703).

  Next, it is determined whether a volume change operation or a cancel operation has been performed (S704). In the present embodiment, after the volume setting notification is executed, the volume setting is performed based on the operation of the volume setting switch 265 (see FIG. 5A) or the operation of the effect button 8 while the volume adjustment screen (FIG. 7B) is displayed. The value can be changed, and the volume setting notification can be canceled based on the operation of the middle button 8a. Therefore, in the determination process of S704, it is determined whether or not the operation of the volume setting switch 265, the operation of the effect button 8 while the volume adjustment screen is displayed, or the operation of the middle button 8a after the volume setting notification is executed. Good.

  As a result of the determination process in S704, when it is determined that the volume change operation and the cancel operation are not performed (S704: NO), the volume setting notification related process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that a volume change operation or a cancel operation has been performed (S704: YES), the volume operation flag is set to ON (S705). Note that the volume setting notification executed in the process of S703 is performed until a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) elapses from the start of the notification. Further, when the middle button 8a is operated before a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) has elapsed since the start of the volume setting notification, the volume setting notification can be ended based on the operation.

  In the present embodiment described above, if the volume setting value is the initial setting when the gaming machine 1 is turned on, the volume setting notification indicating that the volume setting value is the initial setting is performed, When an operation related to volume setting (operation of the volume setting switch 265 or operation of the effect button 8 while the volume setting screen is displayed) is performed after the volume setting notification is performed, the volume setting notification based on the next power-on is not performed. It is like that. Thereby, after the gaming machine 1 shipped from the manufacturer is installed in the gaming hall, it is possible to prompt the change of the volume setting value of the gaming machine 1, and the volume of the gaming machine 1 is changed from the state at the time of shipment. It is possible to prevent the game from being played without any problems. In addition, after performing the volume setting notification based on power-on, if an operation related to volume setting (operation of the volume setting switch 265 or operation of the effect button 8 while the volume setting screen is displayed) is performed, the subsequent power-on is performed. When the power is turned on for the first time after the game hall is installed, the next power-on is performed even though the volume setting value that has been initially set is changed. In this case, the troublesomeness that the volume setting notification is performed can be eliminated.

  Also, in this embodiment, if the operation related to the volume setting (the operation of the volume setting switch 265 or the operation of the effect button 8 while the volume setting screen is displayed) is not performed after the volume setting notification is performed, the power is turned on next time. In this case, the volume setting notification is also made. As a result, after the gaming machine 1 shipped from the manufacturer is installed in the gaming hall, the volume setting notification is performed until an operation related to the volume setting is performed, and the volume of the gaming machine 1 is changed from the factory setting. It is possible to prevent the use (operation) of the gaming machine 1 from being continued without being performed.

  Further, in this embodiment, by operating the middle button 8a of the effect button 8 after the volume setting notification is performed, the subsequent execution of the volume setting notification can be canceled. As a result, when the operation related to the volume setting (the operation of the volume setting switch 265 or the operation of the effect button 8 while the volume adjustment screen is displayed) is not intentionally performed, the operation related to the volume setting is not performed and the subsequent operations are not performed. It is possible to prevent the volume setting notification based on the power-on of the gaming machine 1 from being performed.

  In this embodiment, the volume setting value set by the volume setting switch 265 can be changed using the effect button 8 on the volume adjustment screen. Thereby, the change of the volume setting value using the volume setting switch 265 and the change of the volume setting value using the effect button 8 on the volume adjustment screen can be properly used. For example, in the present embodiment, the volume setting switch 265 needs to be operated with the front frame 5 open, so that only a game hall clerk can adjust the volume using the volume setting switch 265, and the effect button 8 is Since it is provided on the front side of the gaming machine 1, not only the game hall clerk but also the player can adjust the volume using the effect button 8.

  Here, the correspondence between the main elements of the present embodiment and the main elements of the present invention will be described. The “volume setting switch 265” corresponds to “the operating means operated to set the volume”, The display area V of the display device 25 corresponds to “notification means”, the sub-control unit 260 and the effect display control unit 280 correspond to “notification control means”, and “the volume adjustment screen (in the display area V of the effect display device 25) The effect button 8 "when the screen (see FIG. 6B) is displayed corresponds to the" volume adjusting means ", and" the operation of the middle button 8a during the execution of the volume setting notification "is" notification instruction non-execution input " It corresponds to. In addition, both “volume setting switch 265” and “effect button 8 when volume adjustment screen (see FIG. 6B) is displayed in display area V of effect display device 25” correspond to “operation means”. You may make it do.

(Second embodiment)
Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. Description of the same parts as those in the first embodiment will be omitted, and only different parts will be described. The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in volume setting notification related processing. Specifically, in the first embodiment, it is determined whether or not an operation related to volume setting has been performed after the volume setting notification is executed, and if the operation is performed, the subsequent volume setting notification is not performed. However, in the second embodiment, it is determined whether or not the volume setting value has been changed (hereinafter referred to as “volume setting change”) after the volume setting notification is executed. The volume setting notification is not performed.

  FIG. 15 is a flowchart of the sound volume setting notification related process of the second embodiment, and corresponds to FIG. 14 of the first embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 15, in the second embodiment, first, it is determined whether or not the setting change flag is set to ON (S706). The setting change flag is a flag indicating that a volume setting value change or a volume setting notification cancel operation has been performed after the volume setting notification is executed in the process of S703. The contents of the setting change flag are retained even when the gaming machine 1 is powered off.

  As a result of the determination process in S706, if it is determined that the setting change flag is set to ON (S706: YES), the sound volume setting notification related process is terminated. On the other hand, when it is determined that the setting change flag is not set to ON (S706: NO), the processing of S701 to S703 is executed.

  Then, after the volume setting notification is executed in the processing of S703, it is determined whether or not a volume setting change or a volume setting notification cancellation operation has been performed (S707). In the present embodiment, after the volume setting notification is executed, the volume setting is performed based on the operation of the volume setting switch 265 (see FIG. 5A) or the operation of the effect button 8 while the volume adjustment screen (FIG. 7B) is displayed. The value can be changed, and the volume setting notification can be canceled based on the operation of the middle button 8a. For this reason, in the determination processing of S707, it is determined whether or not the operation of the volume setting switch 265, the operation of the effect button 8 during the display of the volume adjustment screen, or the operation of the middle button 8a is performed after the volume setting notification is executed. That's fine.

  As a result, when it is determined that the volume setting change or cancel operation has not been performed (S707: NO), the volume setting notification related process is terminated. On the other hand, when it is determined that the volume setting change or cancel operation has been performed (S707: NO), the setting change flag is set to ON (S708).

  In the second embodiment described above, if the volume setting value is the initial setting when the gaming machine 1 is turned on, the volume setting notification indicating that the volume setting value is the initial setting is sent. If the volume setting value is changed from the initial setting value to another setting value after the volume setting notification is performed, the volume setting notification based on the next power-on is not performed. Thereby, after the gaming machine 1 shipped from the manufacturer is installed in the gaming hall, it is possible to prompt the change of the volume setting value of the gaming machine 1, and the volume of the gaming machine 1 is changed from the state at the time of shipment. It is possible to prevent the game from being played without any problems. In addition, if the volume setting is changed after the volume setting notification based on power-on, the volume setting notification is not performed when the power is turned on. Even when the volume setting value that is the initial setting is changed when the power is turned on, it is possible to eliminate the annoyance that the volume setting notification is performed when the power is turned on next time.

  In the second embodiment, when the volume setting value is not changed from the initial setting value to another setting value after the volume setting notification is performed, the volume setting notification is also performed at the next power-on. To do. For this reason, when the operation related to the volume setting (the operation of the volume setting switch 265 or the operation of the effect button 8 on the volume setting screen) is performed after the volume setting notification is executed, the volume setting value is not changed from the initial setting value. On the other hand, the volume setting notification is performed based on the next power-on. Thus, after the gaming machine 1 shipped from the manufacturer is installed in the gaming hall, the volume setting notification is performed until the volume setting value is changed, and the volume of the gaming machine 1 is changed from the state at the time of shipment. It is possible to prevent the use (operation) of the gaming machine 1 from being continued without being performed.

  Here, the correspondence relationship between the main elements of the second embodiment and the main elements of the present invention will be described. The “volume setting switch 265” corresponds to “setting means for setting the volume”, and the presentation is shown. The display area V of the device 25 corresponds to “notification means”, the sub-control unit 260 and the effect display control unit 280 correspond to “notification control means”, and “the volume adjustment screen (see FIG. The effect button 8 ”when“ 6 (b) ”is displayed corresponds to“ volume adjusting means ”. Further, both “volume setting switch 265” and “effect button 8 when volume adjustment screen (see FIG. 6B) is displayed in display area V of effect display device 25” correspond to “setting means”. You may make it do.

(Third embodiment)
Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. A description of the same parts as those in the above embodiments will be omitted, and only different parts will be described.

  The third embodiment is different from the above embodiments in that no volume adjustment (see FIG. 6) using the effect button 8 on the volume adjustment screen is provided as the effect related process. For this reason, in the third embodiment, only the volume setting value can be adjusted by the volume setting switch 265 (see FIG. 5). Please adjust "message appears.

  FIG. 16 is a flowchart of the sound volume setting notification related process of the third embodiment, and corresponds to FIG. 14 of the first embodiment and FIG. 15 of the second embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 16, in the third embodiment, first, it is determined whether or not the position change flag is set to ON (S709). The position change flag is a flag indicating that the switch position of the volume setting switch 265 has been changed or the volume setting notification cancel operation has been performed after the volume setting notification is executed in the process of S703. The contents of the position change flag are retained even when the gaming machine 1 is powered off.

  As a result of the determination process in S709, when it is determined that the position change flag is set to ON (S709: YES), the sound volume setting notification related process is terminated. On the other hand, when it is determined that the position change flag is not set to ON (S709: NO), the processing of S701 to S703 is executed.

  Then, after the volume setting notification is executed in the process of S703, it is determined whether or not a switch position change of the volume setting switch 265 or a volume setting notification cancellation operation has been performed (S710). In this embodiment, after the volume setting notification is executed, the volume setting value can be changed by changing the switch position based on the operation of the volume setting switch 265 (see FIG. 5A), and based on the operation of the middle button 8a. The volume setting notification can be canceled. For this reason, in the determination process of S710, it may be determined whether or not the operation of the volume setting switch 265 or the operation of the middle button 8a has been performed after the execution of the volume setting notification.

  As a result, when it is determined that the switch position change or cancel operation of the volume setting switch 265 has not been performed (S710: NO), the volume setting notification related process is terminated. On the other hand, when it is determined that the switch position change or cancel operation of the volume setting switch 265 has been performed (S710: NO), the setting change flag is set to ON (S711).

  In the third embodiment described above, when the gaming machine 1 is turned on and the switch position of the volume setting switch 265 is the initial position “3”, the volume setting value is the initial setting. When the switch position of the volume setting switch 265 is changed from the initial position “3” to another position, the volume setting notification based on the next power-on is not performed. Yes. Thereby, after the gaming machine 1 shipped from the manufacturer is installed in the gaming hall, it is possible to prompt the change of the volume setting value of the gaming machine 1, and the volume of the gaming machine 1 is changed from the state at the time of shipment. It is possible to prevent the game from being played without any problems. If the switch position of the volume setting switch 265 is changed from the initial position to another position after execution of the volume setting notification based on power-on, the volume setting notification is not performed at the subsequent power-on. For example, after the game hall is installed, when the power is turned on for the first time, the volume setting switch 265 which is the initial position is changed. The troublesomeness of being performed can be eliminated.

  Further, in the third embodiment, if the switch position of the volume setting switch 265 is not changed from the initial position “3” to another position after the volume setting notification is performed, the volume based on the next power-on. Setting notification is performed. For this reason, when the volume setting switch 265 is operated after the volume setting notification is performed, but the switch position of the volume setting switch 265 is not changed from the initial position, the volume setting notification is performed based on the next power-on. To do. Thus, after the gaming machine 1 shipped from the manufacturer is installed in the gaming hall, the volume setting notification is performed until the volume setting value is changed, and the volume of the gaming machine 1 is changed from the state at the time of shipment. It is possible to prevent the game from being played repeatedly without being played.

  Here, the correspondence between the main elements of the third embodiment and the main elements of the present invention will be described. The “volume setting switch 265” is “operating means capable of changing the setting position in a predetermined setting area”. ”, The display area V of the effect display device 25 corresponds to“ notification means ”, the sub control unit 260 corresponds to“ volume setting means ”, and the sub control unit 260 and the effect display control unit 280 perform“ notification control ”. Corresponding to “means”, “the effect button 8” when the volume adjustment screen (see FIG. 6B) is displayed in the display area V of the effect display device 25 corresponds to “volume adjusting means”.

(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 first embodiment described above, an example in which the volume setting switch 265 (rotary switch) is used as the “operation means operated to set the volume” has been described. It is only necessary that the volume can be set based on the above. For example, as the operation means of the first embodiment, a slide switch that can change the volume setting value by a linear operation, a contact type detection sensor that detects touching, a touch panel, or the like can be adopted. Further, the operation means of the first embodiment is not limited to the configuration in which the volume setting value is determined based on the switch position, but may be configured to determine the volume setting value based on the number of operations, for example.

  In the second embodiment, the example in which the volume setting switch 265 (rotary switch) is used as the “setting means for setting the volume” has been described. However, the setting means in the second embodiment can set the volume. What is necessary is just to use a contact type or non-contact type input means. For example, as the setting means of the second embodiment, a slide switch, a touch panel, a contact type detection sensor, a non-contact type detection sensor using a photoelectric element or the like, a voice input, or the like can be adopted.

  Further, in the third embodiment, the example in which the volume setting switch 265 (rotary switch) is used as the “operating means whose setting position can be changed” has been described. However, the operating means of the third embodiment has a setting position (switch position). ) As long as the volume can be set. For example, a slide switch or the like can be employed as the operating means of the third embodiment.

  In the first and second embodiments, the switch position of the volume setting switch 265 (see FIG. 5A) is changed by one step, and the slide bar position (FIG. 5) of the volume adjustment screen (volume adjustment unit 25h). 6 (b)) is changed by one step, and the volume adjustment range (“20” in the above embodiment) is made to match, but these may not be made to match. For example, the volume adjustment range can be made smaller when the volume setting value is adjusted using the effect button 8 on the volume setting screen than when the volume setting value is adjusted by the volume setting switch 265. Specifically, for example, when adjusting the volume setting value with the volume setting switch 265, the volume is changed to “20” when the switch position is changed by one step, and the effect button 8 is used on the volume setting screen. When the volume setting value is adjusted, the volume can be changed by “5” when the slide bar position is changed by one step. In this case, by changing the switch position of the volume setting switch 265, “3 (volume 60)” → “4 (volume 80)” → “5 (volume 100)” or “3 (volume 60)” → The volume setting value can be adjusted as “2 (volume 40)” → “1 (volume 20)”. By changing the slide bar position with the effect button 8 on the volume setting screen, “3 (volume 60)” → The volume setting value can be adjusted as “4 (volume 65)” → “5 (volume 70)” or “3 (volume 60)” → “2 (volume 55)” → “1 (volume 50)”.

  In the first and second embodiments, when the volume is adjusted using the effect button 8 on the volume adjustment screen (see FIG. 6B), the volume setting value set by the volume setting switch 265 (in FIG. 5). The volume can be increased or decreased based on the volume “60” corresponding to the switch position “3”. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the production on the volume setting screen is based on the volume setting value set by the volume setting switch 265. In the volume adjustment using the button 8, the volume setting value may be simply reduced, or in the volume adjustment using the effect button 8 on the volume setting screen based on the volume setting value set by the volume setting switch 265. It is also possible to simply increase the volume setting value.

  Further, in each of the above embodiments, it is determined whether or not the sound volume is the initial setting based on the sound volume setting value (stored value). However, the present invention is not limited to this. Based on this, it may be determined whether or not the volume is an initial setting. Specifically, in the configuration of each of the above embodiments, it is determined whether or not the volume is the initial setting by determining whether or not the switch position of the volume setting switch 265 is “3”. Can do.

  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.

  In the above embodiment, an example in which the present invention is applied to a pachinko gaming machine has been described.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Game machine, 8 ... Production | presentation button (operation means, setting means, volume adjustment means), 9 ... Menu button, 25 ... Production | presentation display apparatus (notification means), 200 ... Main control part, 260 ... Sub-control part (notification control) Means, volume setting means), 265... Volume setting switch (operation means, setting means), 280... Production display control section (notification control means).

Claims (4)

Operating means operated to set the volume;
A notification means capable of executing a predetermined notification;
Notification control means for controlling the notification means;
With
The notification control means performs volume setting notification by the notification means when the volume is a predetermined initial setting when the power is turned on, and when the operation means is operated after execution of the volume setting notification. The game machine is controlled so that the volume setting notification is not performed when the power is turned on thereafter. The notification control unit performs control so that the volume setting notification is performed even when the power is turned on after the operation unit is not operated after the volume setting notification is performed. Item 1. A gaming machine according to Item 1. The notification control means performs control so as not to perform the volume setting notification when the power is turned on after a predetermined notification non-execution instruction is input after execution of the volume setting notification. The gaming machine according to claim 1 or 2. The game machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a volume adjustment unit capable of adjusting a volume set based on an operation of the operation unit.

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