JP5871028B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

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

  A game machine that performs a symbol change game that displays a symbol in a variable manner and executes a jackpot game when the symbol is stopped and displayed as a jackpot symbol. Various effects are performed as the game progresses during a symbol variation game or a jackpot game. Is called.

  In such a gaming machine, there is known a gaming machine capable of executing volume adjustment (production related processing) accompanying the production by an input operation using a production button by a player (see Patent Document 1).

JP 2013-132314 A

  However, in Patent Document 1, volume adjustment (effect related processing) can be performed only when the display of the effect image accompanying the progress of the game is not performed on the display device. For this reason, the period during which volume adjustment (production related processing) can be executed is limited.

  In view of the above, an object of the present invention is to enable an effect-related process to be executed regardless of a game progress state in a gaming machine capable of executing an effect-related process based on an input by a player.

In order to achieve the above object, the gaming machine of the present invention provides:
A gaming machine capable of executing a predetermined production-related process based on an input by a player, wherein a plurality of the production-related processes are provided, and the player can select a production-related process to be executed,
First display means capable of displaying a predetermined effect image;
Second display means capable of displaying a predetermined effect image;
An item display executing means for displaying an item for causing the player to select the effect-related processing based on establishment of a predetermined display condition;
With
The item display execution means performs the item display by the first display means when the display of the effect image accompanying the progress of the game is not performed by the first display means, and displays the effect image according to the progress of the game. If the first display means is used, the item display is performed by the second display means.

  According to the present invention, when the display of the effect image accompanying the progress of the game is not performed on the first display means, that is, when the game is not progressing, the item display of the effect related processing is performed on the first display means. When the display of the effect image accompanying the progress of the game is performed on the first display means, that is, during the progress of the game, the item display of the effect related processing is performed on the second display means, so that the game is in progress. In addition, it is possible to execute the effect related processing based on the item display of the effect related processing on the second display means without hindering the display and visibility of the effect image on the first display means as the game progresses. In this way, by changing the display means for displaying the item of the effect related process between when the game is not progressing and when the game is progressing, various effect related processes can be performed even while the game is in progress. Execution-related processing can be executed regardless of the game progress status.

In addition, a gaming machine of a related invention related to the present invention has the above-described configuration,
The item displayed is different between the case where the item display is performed by the first display means and the case where the item display is performed by the second display means.

  Accordingly, it is possible to execute appropriate performance-related processing according to each situation when the game is progressing and when the game is not progressing.

Further, the gaming machine of the related invention has the above-described configuration,
A response effect executing means for performing a predetermined response effect based on an input by the player;
When the executable display period of the response effect starts when the item display is performed by the second display means, the response effect is executed with priority over the item display.

  Thereby, when the executable period of the response effect starts, the response effect based on the player's input can be surely executed without being hindered by the item display of the effect related process.

Further, the gaming machine of the related invention has the above-described configuration,
The predetermined display condition cannot be established until the response effect is performed or the executable period ends after the response effect executable period starts.

  Thereby, during the period in which the response effect can be executed, the response effect based on the player's input can be surely executed without being hindered by the item display of the effect related process.

Further, the gaming machine of the related invention has the above-described configuration,
When the display of the effect image accompanying the progress of the game is performed by the first display unit and the second display unit, the predetermined display condition cannot be established.

  Thereby, when the effect display is performed by the 1st display means and the 2nd display means, the display of the effect image in the 1st display means and the 2nd display means is not interrupted by the item display of an effect related process. The display can be executed reliably.

  According to the configuration of the present invention described above, in a gaming machine capable of executing an effect related process based on an input by a player, the effect related process can be executed regardless of the game progress status.

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 a main display apparatus. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of a display of a response effect. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of a display of the item display of the effect relevant process in game progress. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of a display of the item display of the effect relevant process in a game non-progress. It is a block diagram which shows schematic structure of an electronic controller. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of a main job. It is a flowchart which shows the first half part of a special symbol game process. It is a flowchart which shows the second half part of a special symbol game process. It is a flowchart which shows a start opening prize process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol fluctuation | variation display process. It is a flowchart which shows a 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 a design fluctuation effect process. It is a flowchart which shows a response production process. It is a flowchart which shows the item display process of an effect relevant process.

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

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

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

  The middle frame 4 is made of plastic and constitutes the main body frame of the gaming machine 1. The middle frame 4 is fitted inside the outer frame 3 and is pivotally supported at the left end so as to be openable and closable with respect to the outer frame 3. The middle frame 4 is composed of a frame body portion that occupies about 2/3 of the upper side and a lower plate portion that occupies about 1/3 of the lower side. The game board 20 and the front frame 5 are provided on the front side of the frame portion so as to overlap each other. On the lower side of the front frame 5, an upper plate portion 6 and a lower plate portion 7 are integrally provided. The lower plate portion is provided with a launching device 12 (see FIG. 7) 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. It is composed of a push-in push button that returns 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 this embodiment, when the effect button 8 is operated as described later, execution of response effect, execution of effect-related processing, and the like are 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 response effect, the effect related process, and the effect related process will be described in detail later.

  The CR operation unit 10 is used to operate the prepaid card unit 13 (CR unit) provided on the left side of the gaming machine 1, and includes a return button 10a for requesting the return of the prepaid card and the remaining frequency of the prepaid card. And a ball lending button 10c for requesting lending of game balls.

  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 a main display device 25. In addition, a sub display device 26 is provided above the main display device 26. The sub display device 6 is smaller than the main display device 26, and the display area W of the sub display device 26 is smaller than the display area V of the main display device 25. In the present embodiment, liquid crystal display devices are used as the main display device 25 and the sub display device 26, and various effects are displayed in the display area V of the main display device 25 and the display area W of the sub display device 26.

  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 operating gate 27, there is provided a normal symbol operating gate detection switch 27s (see FIG. 7) for detecting the passage of the game ball flowing down on the game board. 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. 7) 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. 7) for detection and a start opening solenoid 28c (see FIG. 7) 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. A main winning opening solenoid 33c (see FIG. 7) and a main winning opening entering detection switch 33s (see FIG. 7) for detecting the entrance 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” continue 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 main display device 25 provides a symbol variation effect corresponding to the symbol variation game of the special symbol 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 main display device 25. As shown in FIG. 3, the display area V of the main display device 25 is provided with an effect symbol display portion Va for displaying 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 main display device 25 functions as a symbol display device, like the first special symbol and the second special symbol display device 62. In addition, in the display area V of the main display device 25, the display unit excluding the effect symbol display unit Va in which the effect symbol is displayed in a variable manner and 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 main display device 25 is arranged at the center of the game board 20 (game area 21), the player usually displays the content displayed in the display area V of the main display device 25 (particularly the effect design). 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.

  In principle, the effect display of the symbol variation effect is performed using the display area V of the main display device 25, but in addition to the effect display in the display area V of the main display device 25, in the display area W of the sub display device 26. There may also be a production display. For example, in the case of performing an effect with high jackpot reliability such as so-called “development reach production” such as super reach, the display of the sub display device 26 is linked to the effect display in the display area V of the main display device 25. An effect display can be performed in the area W.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the display area of the main 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. Each 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 main 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 main display device 25, in addition to the symbol variation effect according to the variation display of the special symbol, a hold display effect for displaying the number of special symbol hold 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.

  In the display area V of the main display device 25, a demonstration effect is displayed in which a demonstration screen is displayed during a standby state in which neither the special symbol variation game nor the big hit game is executed. In this embodiment, the special symbol variation game or jackpot game is not performed, and the state where the number of special symbol hold is zero is the “standby state”, “the special symbol variation game or jackpot game is not performed, And, when the number of special symbol hold is zero, it is determined that it is in a standby state. In this embodiment, the demonstration effect is configured to start when a predetermined time (in this embodiment, “10 seconds”) has elapsed since it was determined that the camera was in the standby state. It should be noted that the timing of the predetermined time after the determination that the standby state has been established and the execution of the demonstration effect are performed by the control process of the sub-control unit 260.

  In the present embodiment, an effect pattern (hereinafter referred to as an operation effect pattern) accompanied by an operation of the effect button 8 is provided as an effect pattern of the effect change effect performed in accordance with the progress of the symbol change game (change display) of the special symbol. Yes. Here, the effect pattern of the symbol variation effect corresponds to the variation pattern (variation time) of the special symbol, and the effect of the symbol variation effect is based on the variation pattern (variation time) determined at the start of the variation of the special symbol. A pattern is determined. The determination of the design pattern of the design variation effect is performed by the sub-control unit 260 based on the variation pattern designation command from the main control unit 200 as described above, and the variation pattern of the special symbol indicated by the variation pattern designation command. If the variation pattern can execute the effect (response effect) based on the operation of the effect button 8, the effect pattern of the symbol variation effect becomes the operation effect pattern, and the effect (response effect) based on the operation of the effect button 8 cannot be executed. If the change pattern is a large variation pattern, the effect pattern of the symbol variation effect is an effect pattern (normal effect pattern) that does not involve the operation of the effect button 8.

  Further, in the operation effect pattern of the present embodiment, an operation effective period in which the operation of the effect button 8 is effective during the reach effect is provided. The operation effective period starts at a predetermined time during the reach effect, and ends when the effect button 8 is operated or the operation effective period elapses without the effect button 8 being operated. The predetermined time includes a timing when a predetermined time has elapsed from the start of the reach production, a specific timing during the SP reach production after the reach has been established, and the development of the SP reach (super reach) production, the end of the reach production (result of success or failure) ) Can be exemplified. The operation effective period is set in advance according to the variation pattern, and can be set even when the reach effect is not performed. During the operation valid period, a predetermined response effect can be executed based on the operation of the effect button 8. That is, the operation effective period corresponds to the response effect executable period. When the operation effective period starts, the response effect executable period starts, and when the operation effective period ends, the response effect executable period ends.

  FIG. 4 shows a screen display example of a symbol variation effect based on the operation effect pattern. FIG. 4A is a screen display example during the operation effective period, and FIG. 4B is a screen display example of a response effect based on the operation of the effect button 8 of each operation effect pattern. As shown in FIG. 4A, the display area V of the main display device 25 is provided with a button symbol display section 25f and an operation valid period display section 25g. In this embodiment, during the operation effective period, a button operation instruction effect instructing the operation of the effect button 8 is performed using the button symbol display unit 25f and the operation effective period display unit 25g. In the button symbol display portion 25f, a button image imitating the effect button 8 is displayed to prompt the player to operate the effect button 8. The operation effective period display unit 25g displays a level gauge that indicates an elapsed time from the start of the operation effective period (the remaining time of the operation effective period).

  In the operation effect pattern of the present embodiment, a battle battle effect in which a teammate character and an enemy character fight is performed. In this fighting battle effect, after the three effect symbols 25a to 25c start to change display, two effect symbols (for example, the left effect symbol 25a and the right effect symbol 25c) are stopped and displayed with the same symbol, and the remaining effect symbols are displayed. This is a type of reach effect that is performed after the effect symbol (for example, the medium effect symbol 25b) reaches the reach state in which the variable display is continued (after the reach is established). During the operation effective period shown in FIG. 4A, a scene in which the ally character and the enemy character are fighting is displayed in the display area V of the main display device 25. Then, as shown in FIG. 4B, as a response effect based on the operation of the effect button 8, an effect that the ally character attacks the enemy character and the enemy character is defeated by this attack and the ally character wins (success effect) ) Or an effect (fault effect) in which the enemy character escapes and the teammate character cannot win. FIG. 4 (b) shows a successful performance.

  When the variation pattern designation command transmitted from the main control unit 200 to the sub-control unit 260 at the start of the variation display of the special symbol is a command corresponding to the symbol variation effect based on the operation effect pattern, the variation of the special symbol When the display starts, the three effect symbols 25a to 25c start to be displayed in a variable manner, and then the two effect symbols are stopped and displayed in the same symbol, and the operation effect shown in FIG. A fighting battle effect corresponding to the pattern is started. Then, when the symbol variation effect based on the operation effect pattern is being executed, the response effect (the effect that the ally character attacks the enemy character is based on the operation of the effect button 8 during the operation effective period in the fighting battle effect. ) Is performed (see FIG. 4B). If the effect button 8 is not operated during the operation effective period of the symbol variation effect based on the operation effect pattern, a failure effect as described above is performed at the end of the operation effective period, or a response effect ( It is only necessary to advance the symbol variation effect without performing the effect that the ally attacks the enemy. Alternatively, when the operation effect pattern is set based on the special symbol jackpot variation pattern, the above-described successful effect may be performed even if the effect button 8 is not operated during the operation effective period.

  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”, “brightness adjustment” For example, a presentation environment setting such as (brightness adjustment), “game history display”, “minigame”, and the like 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, and in the brightness adjustment (brightness adjustment), LEDs provided in the frame lamp unit 5c and display devices 25 and 26 (liquid crystal display devices). ) Brightness (luminance) can be adjusted. Also, in the game history display, it is possible to display the number of jackpot occurrences, the number of reach occurrences, the number of extended games (the number of consecutive occurrences of jackpots) in the previous probability change state, and the like. The number of jackpot occurrences may be displayed for each type of normal jackpot and probability variation jackpot, or the number of jackpot occurrences for each reach type may be displayed.If there are multiple jackpot games with different numbers of rounds, The number of jackpot occurrences for each round may be displayed. In addition, as a mini game, a “fortune telling effect” that displays a fortune based on the operation of the effect button 8, a “fortune effect” that draws a fortune, the type and contents of the effect image and effect sound used in the gaming machine 1, etc. The “description effect” shown can be exemplified.

  In the present embodiment, item display (menu screen display) of effect-related processing is performed when a predetermined display condition is satisfied. The predetermined display condition in this embodiment is satisfied when the player operates the menu button 9. That is, when the menu button 9 is operated, the item display execution condition is established, and the item display of the effect related processing is performed.

  In the item display of the effect related process, a plurality of executable effect related processes are displayed in a list. The item display of the effect related process is different between when the game is progressing (game is in progress) and when the game is not progressing (game is not progressing). “When the game is in progress (game in progress)” is a state in which the symbol variation game or the big hit game is in progress, and the display of the effect image (effect display) accompanying the game progress is on the main display device 25. The state is performed in the display area V. In addition, “when the game is not progressing (game is not progressing)” is a state where the symbol variation game or the big hit game is not executed (standby state), and the display of the effect image accompanying the game progress (effect display) ) Is not performed in the display area V of the main display device 25. The “effect image accompanying the progress of the game” is an image that can be displayed in the display area V of the main display device 25 in accordance with the progress of the effect, and includes a character image, a numeric image, a character image, a background image, and the like.

  FIG. 5 shows the item display of effect-related processing when the game is in progress (game is in progress), and FIG. 6 shows the item display of effect-related processing when the game is not in progress (when the game is not in progress). Show. As shown in FIG. 5, the item display of the effect related processing is performed using the display area W of the sub display device 26 while the game is in progress. As shown in FIG. 6, the item display of the effect related process is performed using the display area V of the main display device 25 while the game is not in progress. That is, when the game is in progress (in progress of the game), the display area W of the sub display device 26 is not used without using the display area V of the main display device 25 where the effect image is displayed as the game progresses. The item display of the effect related processing is performed using. On the other hand, when the game is not progressing (when the game is not progressing), the item display of the effect related processing is performed using the display area V of the main display device 25 where the display of the effect image accompanying the game progress is not performed. Is called.

  As shown in FIG. 5, in the item display of the effect-related processing during the game progress, the item display unit 26 a and the item selection operation instruction unit 26 b are displayed in the display area W of the sub display device 26. As shown in FIG. 6, in the item display of the effect-related process during non-game progress, an item display unit 25 f and an item selection operation instruction unit 25 g are displayed in the display area V of the main display device 25.

  In the item display units 25f and 26a, items of effect-related processing that can be executed are displayed. In addition, the item selection operation instruction sections 25g and 26b include an image imitating the effect button 8 (middle button 8a, left button 8b, right button 8c) and the effect button 8 (middle button 8a, left button 8b, right button 8c). (In the example shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, “select a mode with the left and right buttons” “decide a mode with the middle button”) is displayed. Then, with the item display sections 25f and 26a displaying the effects related processing items, the left button 8b or the right button 8c is operated to change the effects related processing of the selection candidate, and the middle button 8a is changed. By performing the operation, it is possible to determine the production related process of the selection candidate. 5 and 6 show the effect-related processing in which the effect-related processing (volume adjustment) with a hatched line is a selection candidate.

  Further, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the contents of the item display of the effect related processing based on the operation of the menu button 9 are different between when the game is in progress and when the game is not in progress. Specifically, while the game shown in FIG. 5 is in progress, items are displayed as effect-related processes that can be executed as “volume adjustment” and “brightness adjustment”. Further, during the non-progression of the game shown in FIG. 6, four items of “volume adjustment”, “brightness adjustment”, “game history display”, and “minigame” are displayed as items related to the effect. In other words, when the game is not in progress, the number of effect-related processes that can be executed is larger than when the game is in progress.

  In the present embodiment, in a state where a plurality of effect related processes are displayed as items, the player can select an effect related process to be executed from the item display of the effect related processes by operating the effect button 8. it can. The selection of the performance related process to be executed based on the operation of the performance button 8 can change the performance related process to be executed based on the operation of the left button 8b and the right button 8c, for example, and based on the operation of the middle button 8a. What is necessary is just to be able to determine the production related process to be executed. Then, the selected effect-related process is performed by selecting the effect-related process to be executed based on the operation of the player's effect button 8. Further, in the present embodiment, based on the operation of the effect button 8, it is possible to proceed with the effect related processes such as “volume adjustment”, “brightness adjustment”, “game history display”, and “mini game”. Yes.

  Further, in this embodiment, during the symbol variation effect based on the operation effect pattern described above, the response effect can be executed more effectively than the item display or effect related process until the response effect executable period starts and ends. The execution of the production is prioritized. For example, the “item display execution condition (predetermined display condition)” for performing the item display of the effect related processing is made unsatisfiable until the response effect executable period starts and ends, and the menu button 9 Is not displayed in the display area W of the sub-display device 26 even if is operated.

  In addition, when the display of the effect related process or the effect related process is being performed in the display area W of the sub display device 26, if the response effect executable period starts, priority is given to the execution of the response effect. ing. Specifically, when the response effect executable period is started, the item display or the effect related process of the effect related process being executed in the display area W of the sub display device 26 is stopped, and the response effect is based on the operation of the effect button 8. Is in an executable state. Then, when the response effect executable period has elapsed, in the display area W of the sub display device 26, the item display of the effect related processing or the effect related processing is resumed from the state at the time of interruption.

  Further, in the present embodiment, in the symbol variation effect, when the effect display is performed in the display region W of the sub display device 26 in addition to the display region V of the main display device 25, the symbol variation effect is given priority. The item display execution condition (predetermined display condition) cannot be established. That is, when the effect display is performed in the display area W of the sub display device 26 during the symbol variation effect, the effect display of the symbol variation effect is given priority, and the sub display device 26 is operated even if the menu button 9 is operated. In the display area W, the item display of the effect related processing is not performed.

  As described above, in this embodiment, there is a period during which the display conditions for the item display of the effect-related process cannot be established. In other words, the period excluding the period in which the display condition for the item display of the effect related process cannot be established can be referred to as a period in which the execution condition for the item display of the effect related process can be satisfied (display condition establishment possible period).

  Next, the electronic control device of the gaming machine 1 of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the electronic control device.

  As shown in FIG. 7, the electronic control unit includes a main control unit 200 and sub-control units 230, 260, and 280 connected to the main control unit 200. The sub control unit includes a payout control unit (prize ball control unit) 230, a sub control unit 260, and an effect display control unit 280. The main control unit 200 includes a main control board 200a, and the sub control units 230, 260, and 280 include a payout control board 230a, a sub control board 260a, and an effect display control board 280a, respectively, as peripheral control boards. Each of these control boards and other boards (a power board, a relay board, a drive board, a decoration board, an amplifier board, an effect button board, etc.) are arranged on the back side of the gaming machine 1.

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

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

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

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

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

  The sub-control unit 260 constitutes sub-control means for controlling various effects executed as the game progresses. The sub-control board 260a has a CPU 260b, a ROM, a RAM (not shown), an input / output port, etc. Circuit components and a sound generator are provided, and are connected to the main controller 200 at the input / output ports. The sub-control unit 260 is configured to perform effect control using decoration display by various lamps, sound effects output from the speakers 12a to 12d, display of effect symbols by the main display device 25 and the sub display device 26, and the like. ing.

  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 main display device 25 and the sub display device 26 are connected to the control unit 260 and the effect display control unit 280. The effect display control board 280a is provided with an image ROM (not shown). The image ROM displays image data of effects symbols displayed on the main display device 25 and the sub display device 26 (the above-described variation effect). A plurality of image data, etc.) are stored.

  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 pattern variation effect execution pattern (effect pattern) on the main display device 25 ) Selection processing, symbol variation production execution processing based on the execution pattern, and the like.

  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). In the sub-control unit 260 that has received this game state designation command, the main display device 25 displays characters, characters, backgrounds, and the like indicating that the variable time shortening function and the open time extending function are inactive (normal state). 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, processing executed by the sub control unit 260 and the effect display control unit 280 will be described with reference to FIGS. 14 to 16, the CPU 260b mounted on the sub control board 260a is executed 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.

  In the symbol variation effect process shown in FIG. 14, it is first determined whether or not the symbol variation effect is being executed (S700). As a result, if it is determined that the symbol variation effect is not being executed (S700: NO), has the symbol variation start command transmitted by the main control unit 200 been received in the processing of S508j and S509j (see FIG. 11)? It is determined whether or not (S701).

  As a result, when it is determined that the symbol variation start command has not been received (S701: NO), the symbol variation effect process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that the symbol variation start command has been received (S701: YES), it is determined whether or not the symbol variation effect effect pattern is an operation effect pattern accompanied by the operation of the effect button 8 (S702). ). Whether the effect pattern of the symbol variation effect is an operation effect pattern or not is determined based on the operation based on the operation of the effect button 8 based on the variation pattern indicated by the symbol variation start command (variation pattern designation command) received from the main control unit 200. It is possible to determine whether or not the variation pattern is capable of executing (response effect).

  As a result of the determination process of S702, when it is determined that the operation effect pattern is determined (S702: YES), a symbol variation effect based on the operation effect pattern is started (S703). On the other hand, if it is determined that the pattern is not an operation effect pattern (S702: NO), a symbol variation effect based on the normal effect pattern without the operation of the symbol variation effect effect button 8 is started (S704).

  Next, in the determination process of S700, when it is determined that the symbol variation effect is being executed (S700: YES), it is determined whether or not the effect pattern of the symbol variation effect being executed is an operation effect pattern. (S705). As a result, when it is determined that the pattern is not an operation effect pattern (S705: NO), the process proceeds to S707. On the other hand, when it determines with it being an operation effect pattern (S705: YES), a response effect process is performed (S706).

  Here, the response effect process (S706) will be described based on the flowchart of FIG. As shown in FIG. 15, first, it is determined whether or not it is during an operation valid period in which the operation of the effect button 8 is valid (S706a). As a result, when it is determined that the operation is valid (S706a: YES), the process proceeds to S706g. On the other hand, when it is determined that it is not in the operation effective period (S706a: NO), it is determined whether it is the start timing of the operation effective period (S706b). Here, the operation effective period of the present embodiment occurs during the execution of the “fighting battle effect” described above. That is, after the three effect symbols 25a to 25c start to be displayed in a variable manner by the process of S703 described above, two effect symbols (for example, the left effect symbol 25a and the right effect symbol 25c) are stopped and displayed with the same symbol. After the remaining effect symbol (for example, medium effect symbol 25b) is in a reach state in which the variable display continues to be displayed (after reach is established), when the above-mentioned fighting battle effect is started, the operation valid period is started and the effect button 8 A response effect based on the above operation can be executed. Therefore, in the determination process of S706b, it is determined whether or not the start timing of the operation effective period in the fighting battle effect has come.

  As a result of the determination process in S706b, when it is determined that it is not the start timing of the operation valid period (S706b: NO), the response effect process is terminated. On the other hand, when it is determined that it is the start timing of the operation effective period (S706b: YES), it is determined whether or not the item display of the effect related process or the effect related process is being executed (S706c).

  As a result, when it is determined that the item display of the effect related process and the effect related process is not being executed (S706c: NO), the process proceeds to S706f. On the other hand, when it is determined that the item display of the effect related process or the effect related process is being executed (S706c: YES), the interruption flag is set to ON (S706d), and the state at the time of interruption is stored (S706e). ). The interruption flag is a flag indicating that the item display of the effect related process or the effect related process is interrupted during execution. Further, in the process of S706e, information related to the effect-related process executed at the time of interruption or item display of the effect-related process is stored in the RAM of the sub-control unit 260. Then, the operation effective period is started (S706f). With the start of the operation effective period, in the display area V of the main display device 25, the button image is displayed on the button symbol display unit 25f, and the elapsed time from the start of the operation effective period (the remaining time of the operation effective period). Is displayed on the operation valid period display section 25g (see FIG. 4).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the effect button 8 has been operated (S706g). If it is determined that the effect button 8 has been operated (S706g: YES), a response effect based on the operation effect pattern is executed (S706h). In the present embodiment, in the display area V of the main display device 25, the teammate character attacks the enemy character and the teammate character wins (successful stage) or the enemy character escapes (failure stage) as the response stage. (See FIG. 4).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the interruption flag is set to ON (S706i). As a result, when it is determined that the interruption flag is not set to ON (S706i: NO), the process proceeds to S706l. On the other hand, when it is determined that the interruption flag is set to ON (S706i: YES), the effect-related processing or the effect-related that was executed at the time of interruption stored in the RAM of the sub-control unit 260 in the process of S706e. Information related to the process item display is read, and the state at the time of interruption is restored (S706k). Then, the operation valid period ends (S706l).

  Next, returning to FIG. 14, it is determined whether or not the symbol stop command transmitted by the main control unit 200 has been received in the processing of S513 (see FIG. 9A) (S707). As a result, when it is determined that the symbol stop command has not been received (S707: NO), the symbol variation effect processing is terminated, and when it is determined that the symbol stop command has been received (S707: YES). The symbol variation effect is terminated (S708).

  Next, in the item display process of the effect related process shown in FIG. 16, it is first determined whether or not the item display of the effect related process is being executed (S800). As a result, when it is determined that the item display is being executed (S800: YES), the process proceeds to S807. On the other hand, when it is determined that the item display is not being executed (S800: NO), it is determined whether the menu button 9 has been operated (S801).

  As a result, when it is determined that the menu button 9 is not operated (S801: NO), the item display process of the effect related process is ended. On the other hand, when it is determined that the menu button 9 has been operated (S801: YES), it is determined whether or not the operation is valid (whether it is a response effect executable period) (S802).

  As a result, if it is determined that the operation is valid (the response effect can be executed) (S802: YES), the item display process of the effect related process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that the operation is not valid (not a response effect executable period) (S802: NO), it is determined whether or not the game is in progress (S803).

  As a result, when it is determined that the game is in progress (S803: YES), it is determined whether or not the effect display is being performed in the display area W of the sub display device 26 (S804). As a result, when it is determined that the effect display is being performed in the display area W of the sub display device 26 (S804: YES), the item display process of the effect related process is ended. As described above, when the game is in progress and the effect display is performed in the display area W of the sub display device 26, the effect display is performed in both the display area V of the main display device 25 and the display area W of the sub display device 26. In such a case, the process ends without displaying the item of the effect related process. On the other hand, when it is determined that the effect display is not performed in the display area W of the sub display device 26 (S804: NO), the display of the effect related process items is started in the display area W of the sub display device 26 ( S805). If it is determined in S803 that the game is not in progress (S803: NO), the display of the effect-related process items is started in the display area V of the main display device 25 (S806).

  Next, it is determined whether or not an effect-related process to be executed has been selected (S807). In the present embodiment, an execution-related process to be executed can be selected from among a plurality of effects-related processes indicated by the item display based on the operation of the effect button 8. As a result of the determination process in S807, if it is determined that the execution-related process to be executed is not selected (S807: NO), the item display process of the effect-related process is terminated. On the other hand, when it is determined that the performance-related process to be executed is selected (S807: YES), the selected performance-related process is started (S808). Here, when the selected effect-related process is “volume adjustment”, after selecting the effect-related process based on the operation of the effect button 8, a process of lowering the volume based on the operation of the left button 8b is performed. Based on the operation of the button 8c, processing for increasing the volume is performed. When the selected effect-related process is “brightness adjustment (brightness adjustment)”, after selecting the effect-related process based on the operation of the effect button 8, the brightness is lowered (darkened) based on the operation of the left button 8b. Process), and a process to increase (brighten) the brightness based on the operation of the right button 8c. When the selected effect-related process is “game history display”, the number of jackpot occurrences, reach occurrences, consecutive resorts, etc. at that time are displayed. When the selected effect-related process is “mini game”, the effect related to the mini game is performed based on the operation of the middle button 8 a after selecting the effect-related process based on the operation of the effect button 8.

  In the present embodiment described above, the display area V of the main display device 25 is used based on the operation of the menu button 9 when the game is not progressing in the display area V of the main display device 25 while no effect display is performed. Items related to effect-related processing are displayed. Thereby, during the non-progression of the game, the item related to the effect related process is displayed using the display area V of the main display device 25 where the effect display is not performed, and the effect related process is performed based on the item display of the effect related process. Can be selected and executed.

  Further, in the present embodiment, during a game in which an effect display is being performed in the display area V of the main display device 25, an effect related process is performed in the display area W of the sub display device 26 based on the operation of the menu button 9. The item is displayed. Thereby, even if the game is in progress, the effect-related processing in the display area W of the sub display device 26 is not hindered in the progress and visibility of the effect display in the display area V of the main display device 25 as the game progresses. It is possible to select and execute an effect related process based on the item display. As a result, even when the game is in progress, various effects-related processes such as volume adjustment and brightness adjustment can be executed, and the effect-related processes can be executed regardless of the game progress status.

  In the present embodiment, the contents of the item display of the effect related processing displayed on the display devices 25 and 26 are different depending on whether the game is in progress or not in progress. Specifically, “game history display” and “minigame” are included in the item display of the production-related processing when the game is not in progress, and “game history display” and “minigame” are produced while the game is in progress. It is not included in the item display of related processing. Thereby, it is possible to execute appropriate performance-related processing according to the game situation.

  Further, in this embodiment, when the response effect execution possible period starts during the display of the effect related process item or the execution of the effect related process, the item display or the effect related process of the effect related process being executed is interrupted. Priority is given to the execution of response production. Thereby, the response effect based on the operation of the effect button 8 can be reliably executed without being hindered by the item display of the effect-related process and the effect-related process.

  Also, in this embodiment, the execution condition (predetermined display condition) of the item display of the effect related process cannot be established (the item display based on the operation of the menu button 9) until the response effect executable period starts and ends. Priority is given to the execution of response production. Thereby, it is possible to reliably execute the response effect based on the operation of the effect button 8 without being hindered by the item display of the effect related process until the response effect executable period starts and ends.

  Further, in this embodiment, when the effect display is performed in the display area V of the main display device 25 and the display area W of the sub display device 26, the item display execution condition (predetermined display condition) cannot be established. (The item display based on the operation of the menu button 9 is impossible), and priority is given to the progress of the effect display during execution. Thereby, when the effect display is performed in the display area V of the main display device 25 and the display area W of the sub display device 26, the display of the main display device 25 is not hindered by the item display of the effect related processing. The effect display in the area V and the display area W of the sub display device 26 can be surely executed.

  Here, the correspondence between the main elements of the present embodiment and the main elements of the present invention will be described. The “operation of the effect button 8 by the player” corresponds to “input by the player”, and the main display device 25. Corresponds to “first display means”, the sub-display device 26 corresponds to “second display means”, “operating the menu button 9” corresponds to “predetermined display conditions”, and the sub-control unit 260 and the effect display control unit 280 correspond to “item display execution means”, “response effect execution means”, and “effect related process execution means”, and the effect button 8, the sub control unit 260, and the effect display control unit 280 This corresponds to “related processing selection 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 above-described embodiment, the dedicated menu button 9 for performing the item display of the effect related processing is provided, and the predetermined display condition is established based on the operation of the menu button 9. The display conditions may be satisfied in different modes. For example, the display condition may be satisfied based on the operation of the effect button 8.

  Moreover, in the said Example, although the input means for performing an effect related process and the input means for performing a response effect were made into the same effect button 8, it is not restricted to this, Each input means is a thing of a different kind. For example, one of the plurality of effect buttons can be used as an input unit for executing an effect-related process, and the other can be used as an input unit for executing a response effect.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, an example in which a liquid crystal display device is used as the main display device 25 and the sub display device 26 has been described. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and different types of display devices such as a dot matrix may be used. In this case, one of the main display device 25 and the sub display device 26 may be a liquid crystal display device, and the other may be a dot matrix, and both the main display device 25 and the sub display device 26 may be a dot matrix.

  Moreover, in the said Example, although the sub display apparatus 26 was provided above the main display apparatus 25, not only this but the main display apparatus 25 and the sub display apparatus 26 can be arrange | positioned in arbitrary positions. Further, the sub display device 26 may be a movable type capable of changing (moving), rotating, tilting, vibrating, and the like in accordance with the progress of the production.

  Moreover, although the said Example demonstrated the example which provided the two display apparatuses which consist of the main display apparatus 25 and the subdisplay apparatus 26 as a display apparatus used for an effect display, it is not restricted to this, The display used for an effect display Three or more devices may be provided.

  Further, in the above embodiment, when the response effect execution possible period starts during the execution of the effect related process or the item display of the effect related process, the item display of the effect related process or the effect related process being executed is interrupted, After the response effect executable period has ended, the display of the effect related process or the item display of the effect related process is restarted from the state at the time of interruption, but not limited to this, after the response effect executable period ends, The item display of the process or the effect related process may not be resumed. In this case, when the menu button 9 is operated after the response effect executable period ends, the item display of the effect related process may be performed again.

  Further, in the above embodiment, when the response effect execution possible period starts during the execution of the effect related process or the item display of the effect related process, the item display of the effect related process or the effect related process being executed is interrupted. Although the execution of the response effect is given priority, the present invention is not limited to this, and the execution of the item display of the effect related process or the effect related process may be given priority over the response effect. In this case, it is only necessary not to start the response effect execution possible period during the execution of the item display of the effect related process or the effect related process.

  Further, in the configuration of the above embodiment, if the effect pattern of the symbol variation effect is a specific effect pattern, the item display execution condition (predetermined display condition) cannot be established, and even if the menu button 9 is operated, the effect related Processing item display may not be performed. The specific effect pattern may be, for example, an effect pattern with a high jackpot reliability, an effect pattern in which a specific reach effect is performed, an effect pattern in which an effect display is performed using the main display device 25 and the sub display device 26, or the like. . In this way, by restricting the establishment of the item display execution condition (predetermined display condition) based on the effect pattern, the effect related processing based on the operation of the menu button 9 when it is desired to show the player the symbol variation effect firmly. The item display can be disabled. In addition, when the item display is not performed even though the menu button 9 is operated while the symbol variation effect is being executed (while the effect symbol variation is being displayed), the symbol change effect currently being executed is displayed due to the non-execution of this item display. It is possible to indicate that the reliability of the menu item 9 is high, and a notice function using the menu button 9 can be realized.

  In the configuration of the above embodiment, the item display execution condition (predetermined display condition) cannot be established at a predetermined time during the symbol variation effect, and the item related to the effect related process is displayed even if the menu button 9 is operated. It may not be possible. Examples of the predetermined time during the symbol variation effect include, for example, when a predetermined time has elapsed from the start of the symbol variation effect, when one of a plurality of effect symbols is stopped and displayed, and when reach is established. This makes it possible to place a temporal restriction on the establishment of the item display execution condition (predetermined display condition).

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

  For example, when a game ball is entered into various winning holes, data indicating the amount of profit (the magnitude of the game value) corresponding to the ball is stored in the RAM of the main control unit or the payout control unit. Thus, the present invention can also be applied to a type of gaming machine in which a gaming profit (game value) is given to a player. In this case as well, the same effect as in the above embodiment can be obtained. As a type of gaming machine in which gaming profit (game value) is converted into data and given to the player, a gaming machine that circulates and uses a plurality of gaming balls built in the gaming machine, specifically, Examples of the game machine (so-called enclosed game machine) configured to return the game ball discharged to the back surface of the game board through various winning holes or out holes to the launch position and launch it again.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Game machine, 8 ... Production button (production relevant process selection means), 9 ... Menu button, 25 ... Main display apparatus (1st display means), 26 ... Sub display apparatus (2nd display means), 200 ... Main control , 260... Sub-control unit (item display executing means, response effect executing means, effect related process selecting means, effect related process executing means), 280... Effect display control unit (item display executing means, response effect executing means, effect related) Process selection means, effect-related process execution means).

Claims (1)

A gaming machine capable of executing a predetermined production-related process based on an input by a player, wherein a plurality of the production-related processes are provided, and the player can select a production-related process to be executed,
First display means capable of displaying a predetermined effect image;
Second display means capable of displaying a predetermined effect image;
An item display executing means for displaying an item for causing the player to select the effect-related processing based on establishment of a predetermined display condition;
With
The item display execution means performs the item display by the first display means when the display of the effect image accompanying the progress of the game is not performed by the first display means, and displays the effect image according to the progress of the game. If the first display means is used, the item display is performed by the second display means.

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