JP5877026B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine that displays a result of an internal lottery by displaying a symbol after variably displaying it.

Conventionally, as this type of gaming machine, a technique for preventing an illegal act on an ordinary electric accessory has been disclosed (for example, see Patent Document 1).
In the technique of Patent Document 1, it is determined that the normal electric combination is not in operation after the normal electric combination is closed and the count of the effective timer of the normal electric combination ends. For this reason, even if the ordinary electric accessory is closed, the occurrence of the winning is not immediately invalidated, and the ordinary electric accessory is not in operation only after the count of the valid timer is completed. This valid timer starts counting after the ordinary electric accessory has been closed. If the game ball does not win at least 5 seconds after the ordinary electric accessory is closed, it will be treated as an illegal act. become.

  In the gaming machine disclosed in Patent Document 1, when a winning is detected when the ordinary electric accessory is not in operation, it is determined that an illegal act has been performed, and an abnormal special winning signal is output to the management device. For this reason, according to the technique of Patent Document 1, the management device can quickly know that the pachinko machine has been cheated. For example, the manager of the hall immediately rushes to the pachinko machine and receives an illegal prize. Even if there is, it is considered that the special game can be stopped immediately.

As another prior art, even after the variable winning device shifts from the open state to the closed state, a winning in the specific winning area (V winning detection) is performed for the waiting period for the winning acceptance until the valid timer expires. A technique for enabling is known (for example, see Patent Document 2).
According to the technique of Patent Document 2, since the predetermined winning acceptance waiting period is in a waiting state for receiving a prize even after the variable winning apparatus is closed, a game entered immediately before the variable winning apparatus changes to the closed state. When a ball wins a specific winning area, if the winning is within the winning acceptance waiting period, the winning is treated as valid. For this reason, even after the variable winning device is closed, it is considered that the expectation of the player who expects that the winning in the specific winning area is treated as effective can be met as much as possible.

JP-A-6-246039 JP-A-6-23109

  Each of the above-described prior arts sets a so-called effective time (a time during which winning detection during a predetermined time is treated as valid after the variable winning device is closed), and for a while after the variable winning device is closed. Is characterized by the fact that the generation of winnings is effective.

  However, the gaming machines disclosed in Patent Documents 1 and 2 have a problem in that it is not possible to cope with the occurrence of ball biting. Here, “ball biting” means that the game ball is clogged for some reason when the variable winning device is in an open state. There are various factors that can be considered as “ball chewing”. For example, a game ball is sandwiched between movable pieces provided in a variable prize winning device, or a plurality of game balls are in contact with each other inside the movable piece. For example, it may stop moving. In any case, when “ball biting” occurs, the flow of the game ball stops there.

  Here, if the degree of the ball bite is strong, the only way to get the ball bite off is to call the clerk of the game store to open the front glass and have the game ball poke with a stick etc. Absent. However, if the degree of ball biting is moderate, the ball biting will be canceled naturally due to the weight of the game ball, and thereafter the game ball may fall naturally and flow into the variable winning device.

  However, in this case, it takes a certain amount of time (for example, 2 to 3 seconds) to eliminate the ball bite. If the above effective time has already passed, the winning after the ball bite is recognized as an effective win. It will not be possible. In this way, if the winning is not recognized as valid, the game ball payout process is not executed for the winning, which is disadvantageous for the player. In particular, when a ball bit occurs when a game ball flows into the variable winning device, the valid time has not passed yet when the game ball flows in (when it passes through the entrance), but it happens to bite the ball. It is somewhat problematic to make this an invalid prize due to the occurrence of.

  Therefore, in order to solve such a problem, a method can be considered in which a long effective time is ensured from the beginning by taking into account the time for ball biting to some extent. However, the effective time plays not only the role of making the occurrence of winnings effective even when the variable winning device is closed, but also the time until allowing the start of the next symbol variation, If a long effective time is secured in advance, the start of the next symbol variation will be delayed this time, causing a problem that the gaming efficiency is lowered.

  Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a technique capable of suppressing a decrease in game efficiency while taking measures against ball biting.

The present invention employs the following means in order to solve the above problems. The wording in parentheses is merely an example, and the present invention is not limited to this.
Solution 1: That is, in the gaming machine of the present invention, when a lottery opportunity occurs during the game, a lottery execution means for executing a predetermined lottery and when the predetermined lottery is executed, the symbol (for example, a symbol) Display the symbols in a manner that displays the lottery result of the predetermined lottery (for example, a mode that is associated with the winning in advance) after the display is variably displayed over a predetermined fluctuation time. The symbol display means to display) and the lottery result of the predetermined lottery corresponds to winning, and when the symbol display means stops and displays the symbol in a predetermined winning manner, it is impossible to generate a pitch. Variable winning means for performing an opening / closing operation for returning to the closed state after changing from the closed state to an open state in which a ball can be generated over a predetermined opening time, and the variable winning means being open An invalid time for setting the variable winning means to be invalid as an invalid time for the time until the variable winning means changes to the open state again after returning from the closed state to the closed state. In the range of the invalid time set by the time setting means and the invalid time setting means, after the variable winning means returns from the open state to the closed state, the symbol display means starts the next change of the symbol. A first valid time that is an unacceptable time and sets a first valid time for treating detection of a ball by the variable winning means as valid even after the variable winning means returns to the closed state. A time that allows the symbol display means to start the next variation of the symbol after the first effective time set by the time setting unit and the first effective time setting unit has elapsed; And a second effective time setting means for setting a second effective time that treats the detection of a ball entered by the variable winning means as effective even after the variable winning means returns to the closed state. Machine.

A game by the gaming machine of the present invention proceeds, for example, along the flow shown below.
(1) When a lottery opportunity occurs during a game (a winning at the middle start winning opening, a winning at the right starting winning opening, a game ball passes through the starting gate), a predetermined lottery is performed. The predetermined lottery corresponds to, for example, special symbol lottery (internal lottery), normal symbol lottery (operation lottery), or the like. When this lottery opportunity occurs, a predetermined lottery is performed and the game proceeds.

(2) When the predetermined lottery of (1) above is executed, the symbols (special symbols and normal symbols) are variably displayed over a predetermined fluctuation time, and the symbols are stopped and displayed in a manner representing the lottery result of the predetermined lottery. The It takes a certain amount of time (fluctuation time and stop display time) from the start of the symbol display to the stop display. Once the symbol display is started, the stop display is completed. The next lottery will not be held until

(3) When the lottery result of the predetermined lottery in (1) corresponds to winning, and the symbol is stopped and displayed in the predetermined winning manner according to (2) above, variable winning means (ordinary electric combination, special electric combination) The object performs an opening / closing operation that changes from the closed state to the open state over a predetermined opening time. While the variable winning means is in the open state, it is possible to enter a ball.
(4) Detection of a winning by the variable winning means with respect to the time after the variable winning means (3) returns from the open state to the closed state and until the variable winning means changes to the open state again. Is set as an invalid time. Here, the “invalid time” is a time for handling the detection as invalid even if the winning ball is detected by the variable winning means. Note that “the variable winning means changes to the open state again” means that when the opening operation that changes from the closed state to the open state is performed a plurality of times, the variable winning means returns to the closed state after the completion of the opening operation for all times. This means that the first (first) release operation of the next time is executed.

(5) In the range of the invalid time set by (4) above, the first valid time is set after the variable winning means (3) returns from the open state to the closed state. Here, the “first effective time” is a time during which the start of the next symbol variation according to the above (2) is not allowed, and after the variable winning means of the above (3) has returned to the closed state. However, it is the time for handling the detection of the ball entered by the variable winning means (3) as effective. For this reason, in the “first effective time”, the next variation of the symbol is not allowed, but the detection of the pitch by the variable winning means is effective. Note that “the variable winning means returns from the open state to the closed state” means that when the opening operation for changing from the closed state to the open state is performed a plurality of times, the variable winning means returns to the closed state after completion of the opening operation for all the times. Means that.

(6) The second effective time is set after the first effective time set in (5) has elapsed. Here, the “second effective time” is a time that allows the start of the next symbol variation according to (2) above, and is after the variable winning means (3) has returned to the closed state. However, it is the time for handling the detection of the ball entered by the variable winning means (3) as effective. For this reason, in the “second effective time”, the next variation of the symbol is allowed, and the detection of the winning by the variable winning means is also effective.

  As described above, according to the present solution means, by setting the first effective time after the variable winning means is closed, the variable winning means is kept for a while even after the variable winning means returns to the closed state. Entry detection at can be handled as effective. For this reason, it is possible to determine that the game ball that has entered the variable winning means is an effective prize without making an invalid prize just before the variable prize winning device changes to the closed state. However, since the next variation of the symbol is not allowed in the first effective time, the symbol starting condition is not satisfied and the symbol does not vary.

In this solution, the second effective time is further set after the first effective time. Similar to the first effective time, the second effective time has a role of enabling the detection of the winning by the variable winning means even after the variable winning means returns to the closed state. However, unlike the first effective time, the second effective time has a role of allowing the next variation of the symbol.
For this reason, by setting the second effective time, among the roles of the first effective time, the role of enabling the detection of entering by the variable winning means even after the variable winning means returns to the closed state Will take over, but will not take over the role of not allowing the next variation of the symbol.

Therefore, even if the game ball is temporarily stopped due to the occurrence of the ball bite and the entry is detected after the first effective time has elapsed, the entry will continue until the second effective time elapses. The detection of the sphere can be made effective, and it is possible to flexibly cope with the occurrence of the sphere biting. In addition, the next variation of the symbol is not allowed until the second effective time elapses, but can be permitted when the first effective time elapses. The start of the game will not be delayed, and a decrease in game efficiency can be suppressed.
According to the gaming machine of the present invention, by setting the second effective time in addition to the first effective time, it is possible to detect an incoming ball that has occurred after the first effective time and before the second effective time has elapsed. It can be handled as effective, and can cope with the occurrence of ball biting in the variable winning means. In addition, since the next variation of the symbol is allowed in the second effective time, it is possible to suppress a decrease in game efficiency as compared with a method of simply extending the first effective time.

  Solution 2: The gaming machine of the present invention is the solution 1, wherein the second winning time set by the second valid time setting means after the variable winning means changes from the closed state to the opened state. It is a gaming machine characterized by further comprising a privilege granting means for granting a privilege to a player based on a winning that has occurred before the time elapses.

  In the gaming machine of the present solution means, based on the winnings that occur between the time when the variable winning means changes from the closed state to the opened state and after the second effective time passes through the first effective time. A privilege will be given to a player. Note that “the variable winning means changes from the closed state to the open state” means the first (first) release operation when the opening operation to change from the closed state to the open state is performed a plurality of times.

  For this reason, according to the present solution means, it is natural that a privilege is given to the player with respect to the detection of the entry that occurred when the variable winning means is in the open state, but the entry that occurred during the first effective time A privilege is also given to the player for the detection of the ball, and further, the privilege is given to the player for the detection of the incoming ball that has occurred in the second effective time. Therefore, since the privilege is given to the player for all the periods over the “open state period”, “first valid time”, and “second valid time”, the player's profit can be increased accordingly.

  Solution 3: The gaming machine according to the present invention is the variable start according to Solution 1 or 2, wherein when the variable winning means changes from the closed state to the open state, the lottery trigger is generated due to the occurrence of a winning. A gaming machine including a winning device or a variable winning device that generates a winning different from the variable start winning device when the closed state is changed to the opened state.

The following features are added to the gaming machine of this solution.
(1) The variable winning means may include a variable start winning device (ordinary electric accessory) that generates a lottery opportunity (internal lottery opportunity) due to the occurrence of a prize.
(2) The variable winning means may include a variable winning device (special electric accessory) that generates a prize different from the variable start winning device (ordinary electric accessory) of (1).

  According to this solution, the variable winning means may be a variable start winning device (ordinary electric accessory) or may be a variable winning device (special electric accessory). By taking measures against the biting of the ball, it is possible to take all possible measures against the progress of the game. In this regard, the biting of the ball is generated depending on some accidental factors such as the disposition state of the obstacle nail and the flowing down state of the game ball. And by taking all possible measures against such an accidental element, the contents of the game can be progressed as intended in advance without delay.

  Solution 4: The gaming machine of the present invention, in Solution 3, is configured such that at least one of the variable start winning device and the variable winning device includes a movable piece that opens and closes in the left-right direction with respect to the game board surface. It is a gaming machine characterized by

In the gaming machine of the present solution, the variable start winning device and the variable winning device are configured to include a movable piece that opens and closes in the left-right direction with respect to the game board surface. For this reason, the variable start winning device and the variable winning device are so-called electric tulip type winning devices.
Here, the variable start winning device and the variable winning device may be a winning device including an opening / closing member that reciprocates in the front-rear direction with respect to the game board surface. In this case, the opening / closing member is displaced so as to fall forward with its lower end edge portion as a hinge to open the winning opening. However, in this case, since the opening / closing member is larger than the movable piece, the ball biting is relatively difficult to occur.
On the other hand, when a so-called electric tulip type winning device is adopted for the variable start winning device or the variable winning device, the blade-shaped movable piece becomes a relatively small member, so there is a space for play inside the winning device. This is a winning device that is less likely to cause ball biting.
Therefore, even when an electric tulip-type winning device that has a relatively high possibility of ball biting is employed, by taking the above-mentioned ball biting measures, the game can proceed more smoothly. .

  Solution 5: In the gaming machine of the present invention, in any one of Solution 1 to 4, the first valid time setting means is triggered by the fact that the variable winning means has returned from the open state to the closed state. The gaming machine is characterized in that the first valid time is set, and the second valid time setting means sets the second valid time continuously with the first valid time.

The following features are added to the gaming machine of this solution.
(1) The first valid time is set when the variable winning means returns from the open state to the closed state. Therefore, the first valid time is set continuously from the open state of the variable winning means.
(2) The second effective time is set continuously with the first effective time. For this reason, the second effective time is continuously set from the open state of the variable winning means with the first effective time in between.

  For this reason, according to the present solution means, the time from when the variable winning means is in the open state to the end of the second valid time is one continuous valid time (total valid time). If the variable winning means shifts to the open state, there is no blank period during which the detection of the pitch is invalid until the second valid time ends. Therefore, it is possible to make the detection of the ball entry effective over the entire period from when the variable winning means is in the open state until the second effective time ends, and the player's profit can be protected.

  Solution 6: The gaming machine according to the present invention is the gaming machine according to any one of solutions 3 to 5, wherein the lottery execution unit executes an internal lottery relating to a player's profit as the predetermined lottery. The internal lottery execution means, and the predetermined lottery includes an operational lottery execution means for executing an operational lottery different from the internal lottery, and the symbol display means is special as the symbol when the internal lottery is executed. The special symbol display means for stopping and displaying the special symbol in a manner representing the result of the internal lottery after the symbol is variably displayed over a predetermined variation time, and when the operation lottery is executed, the special symbol as the symbol Normal symbol display means for stopping and displaying the normal symbol in a manner representing the result of the operation lottery after the normal symbol different from that is variably displayed over a predetermined variation time The variable start winning device is a predetermined release from a closed state in which a lottery trigger for the internal lottery cannot be generated when the normal symbol is stopped and displayed in a specific winning manner by the normal symbol display means. An opening / closing operation for returning to the closed state after changing to an open state capable of generating a lottery trigger for the internal lottery over time is performed, toward the first game area or the second game area formed on the game board surface A ball launching means for driving a game ball, a ball entry device capable of randomly flowing game balls flowing down the first game area, and a game ball flowing into the ball entry device randomly entering The first special start winning opening that generates a lottery opportunity for the internal lottery and the game ball that has flowed into the pitching device are guided in a first manner that is easy to enter the first special start winning opening, Or a distribution operation means for performing any one of the distribution operations of guiding by the second mode in which it is difficult to enter the first special start winning opening compared to the first mode, and flowing down the second game area A starting gate that generates a lottery trigger for the operation lottery by randomly passing game balls to be played, and the variable start winning device arranged in the second game area, and the variable starting winning device is opened A second special start winning opening for generating a lottery trigger for the internal lottery by randomly entering the game balls flowing down the second game area when in the state, and the special symbol display means Special game execution means for executing a special game to which a special condition different from normal is applied using the variable winning device arranged in the second game area when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the winning mode; The internal lottery is performed at least at a normal frequency after the special game is completed by the special game execution means until the number of post-special game variations corresponding to the number of times of display and stop display of the special symbol reaches a specific number. A time shortening state transition means for shifting from the non-time shortening state in which the lottery opportunity is generated to the time shortening state in which the lottery trigger of the internal lottery can be generated at a higher frequency than the non-time shortening state. It is a gaming machine characterized by comprising.

The following features are added to the gaming machine of this solution.
(1) As an example of a predetermined lottery, an internal lottery (special symbol lottery) related to a player's profit (for example, a profit that a variable winning device is activated) is executed. As another example of the predetermined lottery, an operation lottery (normal symbol lottery) different from the internal lottery is executed.
(2) A special symbol and a normal symbol are defined as an example of the symbol. The special symbol is variably displayed over a predetermined variation time, and is stopped and displayed in a manner representing the result of the internal lottery. Further, the normal symbol is also variably displayed over a predetermined variation time, and is stopped and displayed in a manner representing the result of the operation lottery.

(3) When a normal symbol is stopped and displayed in a specific winning manner according to (2) above, the variable start winning device (ordinary electric accessory) performs an opening / closing operation that changes from a closed state to an open state over a predetermined opening time. To do. While the variable start winning device is in an open state, a lottery opportunity for an internal lottery with a winning can be generated.

(4) Ball launching means (shooting handle) for driving game balls toward the first game area or the second game area formed on the game board surface is provided. Here, the first game area is, for example, an area formed on the left half of the game board surface (left-handed area), and the second game area is an area formed on the right half of the game board surface (right-handed area). Basically, a game ball that is driven into the first game area flows down the first game area, and a game ball that is driven into the second game area flows down the second game area as it is. However, depending on the state of the obstacle nail formed on the game board surface, the game ball driven into the first game area may be bounced by the obstacle nail and flow down the second game area.

(5) A ball entry device is provided in which game balls flowing down the first game area can randomly flow. The ball entry device may be arranged only in the first game area or may be arranged across the first game area and the second game area, but a game ball flowing down the first game area flows in Will do.

(6) A first special start winning opening is provided for generating a lottery opportunity for the internal lottery of (1) above when the game balls that have flowed into the ball entry device of (5) randomly enter. . The first special start winning opening may be disposed inside the above-mentioned (5) pitching device, or may be disposed on the game board surface outside the above-mentioned (5) pitching device. A game ball can enter only through the entrance device 5).

(7) Then, the game ball that has flowed into the ball entry device of (5) is guided by the first mode that is easy to enter the first special start winning opening of (6), or compared with the first mode. Thus, there is provided a sorting operation means (sorting body) that performs any sort of sorting operation of guiding in the second mode in which it is difficult to enter the first special start winning opening of (6). For example, if the distribution operation means is controlled in the first mode, the game ball is likely to enter the first special start winning opening in (6) above, and the distribution operation unit is controlled in the second mode. If it is, the game ball is in a state where it is difficult to enter the first special start winning opening of (6). However, just because the distribution operation means is controlled to the first mode, the game ball does not necessarily enter the first special start winning opening.

(8) A start gate is provided that generates a lottery opportunity for the operation lottery of (1) above when game balls flowing down the second game area randomly pass.
(9) A variable start winning device is arranged in the second game area, and when the variable start winning apparatus is in an open state, the game balls flowing down the second game area randomly enter the inside. A second special start winning opening for generating a lottery opportunity for the lottery is provided. The second special start winning opening is arranged inside the variable start winning device, and a game ball can enter only when the variable start winning device is in an open state.

(10) When a special symbol is stopped and displayed in a specific winning manner according to (2) above, a variable winning device arranged in the second game area is used (for example, internal lottery and special symbol variation are performed). Special game (a big win game) to which a special condition (for example, a condition that the variable winning device is continuously operated without changing the internal lottery and special symbols) is applied. The player can obtain a certain amount of profits (outing) by this special game. In addition, since two winning devices such as “variable start winning device” and “variable winning device” are arranged in the second game area, the game balls flowing down the second game region enter any of the winning devices. There is a possibility of a ball.

(11) After the special game in (10) above, the time until the number of changes after special game reaches a specific number (for example, 2, 6, 9, 50, 10,000, etc.) Transition from time reduction state to time reduction state. The “number of fluctuations after special game” is the number of times of special symbol fluctuation display and stop display executed according to (2) after the end of the special game. For example, the special symbol fluctuation display is executed once, If the special symbol stop display is executed once, the number of fluctuations after the special game is “1”. Further, the “specific number of times” is not limited to the above value, and various values can be set depending on the game specifications.

  In addition, the “non-time reduction state” is a state in which a lottery opportunity for internal lottery occurs at least at a normal frequency. In this state, for example, the winning probability of the operation lottery is set to a normal probability (for example, 1/128), the normal symbol variation time is set to a normal length (for example, about 15 seconds), and the variable start winning device is opened. This is a state in which the time is set to a normal opening time (for example, about 0.1 second) which is a normal length, and so-called electric chew support is not performed.

  On the other hand, the “time shortening state” is a state in which the lottery trigger of the internal lottery can be generated at a higher frequency than the previous “non-time shortening state”. In this state, for example, the winning probability of the operation lottery is set to a high probability (for example, 127/128), and is set to a length (for example, about 0.5 seconds) in which the variation time of the normal symbol is shortened. This is a state set to an extended opening time (for example, about 5.0 seconds), which is an extended length of time, and is a state where so-called electric chew support is performed.

  In this way, in the present solution means, at the initial stage when the game is started, the game is started by driving the game ball toward the first game area using the ball launching means of (4) above. . The first hurdle is to allow the game ball to flow into the ball entry device of (5) above, and after the sorting operation by the sorting operation means of (7) above, the first special start of (6) above The second hurdle is to enter the winning entrance. For this reason, there is a corresponding difficulty in reaching the first special start winning opening in (6) above, so the winning probability of the internal lottery is relatively high ( Can be set sweetly).

  Fortunately, if the winning result is obtained in the internal lottery of (1) above, the player enters the special game state of (10) above, and after the special game state is over, In this case, the game progresses by driving the game ball toward the second game area using the ball launching means (4).

  In this solution, since the game progresses by driving a game ball toward the second game area when a continuous big hit state occurs, a variable start is performed at that time. The number of game balls is increased by using two winning devices, that is, a winning device and a variable winning device. Therefore, it can be said that the probability of occurrence of the ball bite is higher than the situation in which only one winning device exists in the second game area. In this case, when a ball bit occurs in any of the winning devices, not only the game does not proceed smoothly, but also the prize balls for the ball bit cannot be obtained after the conventional effective time has elapsed. In this regard, in the present solution means, by taking the above-described measures against ball biting, even if the board configuration is such that ball biting is likely to occur, a game corresponding to the ball biting can be provided.

  In addition, in the time shortening state, more speedy progress of the game is required, but the second effective time taking the measures against ball biting is the time that allows the variation of the next symbol, Even if the measures against the biting of the ball are taken, the game can be advanced without impairing the speed of the game in the time-saving state.

According to the gaming machine of the present invention, it is possible to prevent the Yu technique efficiency decreases.

It is a front view of a pachinko machine. It is a rear view of a pachinko machine. It is a front view which shows a game board independently. It is a front view which expands and shows a part of game board. It is a block diagram which shows the various electronic devices with which the pachinko machine was equipped. It is a game flow figure which shows the flow of the game by a pachinko machine as an example. It is a flowchart (1/2) which shows the example of a procedure of a reset start process. It is a flowchart (2/2) which shows the example of a procedure of a reset start process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a power failure generation | occurrence | production check process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of an interruption management process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the security management process performed in an interruption management process. It is a figure explaining the operation example of a variable start prize-winning apparatus. It is a figure explaining an example of operation when ball biting occurs in a variable start prize-winning device. It is a timing chart which showed temporal change of various situations in a right start winning opening (embodiment). It is a timing chart which showed temporal change of various situations in a right start winning opening (first comparative example). It is a timing chart which showed a time change of various situations in a right start winning opening (second comparative example). It is a timing chart which showed temporal change of various situations in a big prize opening (embodiment). It is a timing chart which showed the time change of various situations in a big prize opening (the 3rd comparative example). It is a timing chart which showed temporal change of various situations in a big prize opening (fourth comparative example). It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the illegal prize mask process performed in a security management process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a switch input event process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a special symbol memory | storage process. It is a flowchart which shows the structural example of a special symbol game process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the special symbol change pre-processing. It is a figure which shows an example of the variation pattern selection table at the time of the special symbol used in normal or low probability time. It is a figure which shows an example of the variation pattern selection table at the time of the special symbol used in high probability time shortening. It is a figure which shows the structure row | line | column of the big hit stop symbol selection table. It is a figure which shows an example of the special symbol big hit time fluctuation pattern selection table used in normal or low probability time. It is a figure which shows an example of the change pattern selection table at the time of the special symbol big hit used for high probability time shortening. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the special symbol stop display process. It is a flowchart which shows the structural example of a display output management process. It is a flowchart which shows the structural example of a variable winning apparatus management process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of an end process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a normal symbol memory update process. It is a flowchart which shows the structural example of a normal symbol game process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a normal symbol change pre-process. It is a figure which shows an example of the fluctuation pattern selection table at the time of a normal symbol shift. It is a figure which shows an example of the variation pattern selection table at the time of a normal symbol. It is a flowchart which shows the structural example of a variable start prize-winning apparatus management process. It is a figure which shows the structural example of a normal symbol operation condition setting table. It is a continuation figure showing the example of production corresponding to the change display and stop display of a special symbol. It is a figure which shows the example of an effect performed at the time of variable winning apparatus operation | movement. It is a figure which shows the example of an effect performed when the continuous big hit state has generate | occur | produced. It is a figure which shows the example of an effect performed when a limiter reaches | attains. It is a figure which shows the example of an effect of the special effect performed after the last fluctuation | variation of the special symbol in a time shortening state. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of effect control processing. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of effect design management processing. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of an effect design change pre-process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of special effect management processing.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine (hereinafter abbreviated as “pachinko machine”) 1. FIG. 2 is a rear view of the pachinko machine 1. The pachinko machine 1 uses a game ball as a game medium, and a player borrows a game ball from a game hall operator to play a game with the pachinko machine 1. In the game of the pachinko machine 1, each game ball is a medium having a game value, and a privilege (profit) that the player enjoys as a result of the game is, for example, a game ball acquired by the player Based on the number of games, it can be converted into a game value. The overall configuration of the gaming machine will be described below with reference to FIGS.

[Overall configuration of gaming machine]
The pachinko machine 1 mainly includes an outer frame assembly 2, a glass frame unit 4, a tray unit 6 and a plastic frame assembly 7 (game machine frame) as its main body. Among these, the outer frame assembly 2 is a structure in which wood is combined in a vertically long rectangular shape, and the outer frame assembly 2 uses fasteners such as screws for island facilities (not shown) in the game hall. Are fixed.

  The other glass frame unit 4, tray unit 6, and plastic frame assembly 7 are attached to the island facility via the outer frame assembly 2, and these operate in an openable manner via a hinge mechanism (not shown). An opening / closing axis of a hinge mechanism (not shown) extends in the vertical direction along the left end as viewed from the front of the pachinko machine 1.

  A unified lock unit 9 is provided on the right edge (left edge in FIG. 2) of the plastic frame assembly 7 when viewed from the front in FIG. Correspondingly, the glass frame unit 4 and the right edge (back side) of the outer frame assembly 2 are each provided with a locking tool (not shown). As shown in FIG. 1, in a state where the glass frame unit 4 and the plastic frame assembly 7 are closed with respect to the outer frame assembly 2, the unified lock unit 9 on the back side of the glass frame unit 4 and the plastic frame assembly together with the locking device. 7 cannot be opened.

  A cylinder lock 6 a with a key hole is provided on the right edge of the tray unit 6. For example, when an administrator of a game hall inserts a dedicated key into the keyhole and twists the cylinder lock 6a clockwise, the unified lock unit 9 operates to open the glass frame unit 4 and the tray unit 6 together with the plastic frame assembly 7. It becomes a state. When these are entirely opened from the outer frame assembly 2 to the front side (moved like a door), the back side of the pachinko machine 1 is exposed on the front side.

  On the other hand, when the cylinder lock 6a is twisted counterclockwise, only the glass frame unit 4 is unlocked while the plastic frame assembly 7 remains locked, and the glass frame unit 4 can be opened. When the glass frame unit 4 is opened to the front side, the game board 8 is exposed directly, and in this state, the manager of the game hall can remove obstacles such as ball clogging in the board surface. When the glass frame unit 4 is opened, the lock mechanism (not shown) of the tray unit 6 is exposed. If the lock mechanism is released in this state, the tray unit 6 can be opened to the front side with respect to the plastic frame assembly 7.

  The pachinko machine 1 includes the game board 8 as a game unit. The game board 8 is supported by the plastic frame assembly 7 behind (inside) the glass frame unit 4. The game board 8 can be attached to and detached from the plastic frame assembly 7 with the glass frame unit 4 opened to the front side, for example. The glass frame unit 4 has a vertically oval window 4a formed at the center thereof, and a glass unit (no reference numeral) is attached in the window 4a. The glass unit is a combination of, for example, two transparent plates (glass plates) cut in accordance with the shape of the window 4a. The glass unit is attached to the back side of the glass frame unit 4 in an openable / closable manner via a hinge mechanism (not shown). A game area 8a (board surface) is formed on the front surface of the game board 8, and the game area 8a is visible to the player from the front side through the window 4a. When the glass frame unit 4 is closed, a space in which a game ball can flow down is formed between the inner surface of the glass unit and the board surface.

  The saucer unit 6 has a shape projecting from the outer frame assembly 2 to the front side as a whole, and an upper dish 6b is formed on the upper surface thereof. The upper plate 6b can store a game ball (rental ball) lent to a player and a game ball (prize ball) acquired by winning a prize. In the tray unit 6, a lower tray 6c is formed at the lower position of the upper tray 6b. The lower tray 6c stores game balls that are further paid out when the upper tray 6b is full. The pachinko machine 1 according to the present embodiment is a so-called CR machine (model connected to the CR unit), and the game balls borrowed by the player are separately received from the payout unit 172 on the back side separately from the prize balls. 6b or lower pan 6c).

  A lending operation unit 14 is provided on the upper surface of the tray unit 6, and a ball lending button 10 and a return button 12 are arranged on the lending operation unit 14. When a player operates the ball lending button 10 with a valuable medium (for example, a magnetic recording medium, a storage IC built-in medium, etc.) inserted in a CR unit (not shown), the number corresponding to a predetermined frequency unit (for example, 5 degrees). (For example, 125) game balls are lent out. For this reason, a frequency display unit (not shown) is arranged on the upper surface of the lending operation unit 14, and the remaining frequency of the valuable medium put in the CR unit is displayed on this frequency display unit. The player can receive the return of the valuable medium with the remaining frequency by operating the return button 12. Although the CR machine is taken as an example in the present embodiment, the pachinko machine 1 may be a cash machine (a model not connected to the CR unit) different from the CR machine.

  In addition, an upper dish ball removal lever 6d is installed on the front surface of the tray unit 6 in front of the upper dish 6b in the upper position, and a lower dish ball removal button 6e in the center of the lower dish 6c. Is installed. The player can cause the game balls stored in the upper plate 6b to flow down to the lower plate 6c by sliding the upper plate ball removing lever 6d leftward, for example. Further, the player can, for example, push down the lower dish ball removal button 6e to drop the game balls stored in the lower dish 6c downward and discharge them. The discharged game ball is received by, for example, a ball receiving box (not shown).

  A grip unit 16 is installed at the lower right portion of the tray unit 6. The player can operate the grip unit 16 to operate the launch control board set 174 and launch (shoot) a game ball toward the game area 8a (ball launching device, ball launching means). The launched game ball rises along the left side edge of the game board 8, is guided by an outer band (not shown), and is thrown into the game area 8a. A large number of obstacle nails, windmills (without reference numerals in the drawing) and the like are arranged in the game area 8a, and the thrown-in game balls flow down in the game area 8a while being guided and guided by the obstacle nails and the windmill. The configuration of the game area 8a (board surface) will be further described later with reference to another drawing.

[Configuration of the front of the frame]
In the glass frame unit 4, glass frame top lamps 46 and 48 and glass frame side lamps 50 are installed at a plurality of locations so as to surround the glass unit (without reference numerals) as components for production. In addition, a tray lamp 52 is installed in the tray unit 6, and the tray lamp 52, the glass frame top lamps 46 and 48, and the glass frame side lamp 50 are integrally connected on the front surface of the pachinko machine 1 in appearance. Designed as if it were.

  The various lamps 46 to 52 described above perform effects by, for example, light emission (lighting and blinking, change in luminance gradation, change in color tone, and the like) of built-in LEDs. In addition, a pair of left and right glass frame speakers 54 and a glass frame middle speaker 55 are built in the upper part of the glass frame unit 4, and a saucer speaker 56 is provided on the right side of the lower plate 6 c in the saucer unit 6. Built in. These speakers 54, 55, and 56 output sound effects, BGM, voice, etc. (sound in general) and execute effects.

  In the center of the tray unit 6, an effect switching button 450 is installed at a position in front of the upper plate 6b. The player can switch the contents of the effects during the game (for example, the type of BGM) by operating the effect switching button 450.

[Configuration on the back side]
As shown in FIG. 2, on the back side of the pachinko machine 1, there are a power supply control unit 162, a main control board unit 170, a dispensing device unit 172, a flow path unit 173, a launch control board set 174, and a dispensing control board unit 176. A back cover unit 178 and the like are installed. In addition, on the back side of the pachinko machine 1, various electronic devices (including a control computer not shown) constituting the power supply system and control system of the pachinko machine 1, an external terminal board 160, a power cord (power plug) 164, A ground wire (ground terminal) 166, connection wiring (not shown), and the like are installed. The electronic devices will be further described later based on another block diagram (FIG. 5).

  The payout device unit 172 has, for example, a prize ball tank 172a and a prize ball case (no reference sign), and the prize ball tank 172a is installed on the upper edge (back side) of the plastic frame assembly 7. In this state, game balls replenished from a replenishment route (not shown) can be stored. The game balls stored in the prize ball tank 172a are guided to a prize ball case through an upper prize ball basket (not shown). The flow path unit 173 guides the game ball sent out from the payout unit 172 toward the tray unit 6 on the front side.

  The external terminal board 160 is for connecting the pachinko machine 1 to an external electronic device (for example, a data display device, a hall computer, etc.). From the external terminal board 160, the game progress of the pachinko machine 1 is achieved. Various external information signals (for example, prize ball information, door opening information, symbol determination number information, jackpot information, starting port information, security error information, etc.) indicating the state and maintenance state are output to an external electronic device. It has become a thing.

  The power cord 164 secures a power source (electric power) necessary for the operation of the pachinko machine 1 by being connected to, for example, a power source device (for example, AC 24V) installed in an island facility of a game arcade. The ground wire 166 is also connected to a ground terminal installed in the island facility to secure the ground (ground) of the pachinko machine 1.

[Configuration of the board]
FIG. 3 is a front view showing the game board 8 alone. In the game area 8a, a relatively large ball guiding unit 40 (ball entry device) is arranged at the center position, and the game area 8a is located on the left side (first game area) around the ball guiding unit 40. The right part (second game area) and the lower part are largely divided.

  First, on the right side of the game area 8a, a start gate 20, a variable start winning device 28, and a variable winning device 30 are installed around the ball guiding unit 40 in order from the top. In addition, a side decoration lamp 400 is installed along the inner band (no reference symbol) on the left side of the game area 8a, and an effect switching gate 402 is installed in the vicinity of the middle position. In the lower part of the game area 8a, a middle start winning opening 26 (first special starting winning opening) is provided at a position almost immediately below the ball guiding unit 40, and two pairs are formed on the left and right sides. There are two regular winning openings 22.

  The ball guiding unit 40 changes the flow direction (falling) of the game ball at its upper edge (no reference sign), and the flow direction of the game ball is greatly changed to either the right side portion or the left side portion in the game area 8a. Distribute. At this time, there is a possibility that the game balls distributed to the left side part randomly pass through the effect switching gate 402 in the process of flowing down, or win a prize in the normal winning opening 22 located on the left side in particular. On the other hand, the game balls distributed to the right portion of the game area 8a pass through the start gate 20 in the process of flowing down, or win (win) the variable start winning device 28 during operation or the variable winning device 30 during opening operation. Ball), or there is a possibility of winning in the normal winning opening 22 located on the right side. The game balls that have passed through the start gate 20 and the effect switching gate 402 continue to flow down in the game area 8a, but the game balls that have won (entered) the normal winning opening 22, the variable start winning device 28, and the variable winning device 30 are It is collected to the back side of the game board 8 through a through hole formed in the game board (plywood material constituting the game board 8).

  In the present embodiment, the variable start winning device 28 operates when a predetermined operating condition is satisfied (when a normal symbol is stopped and displayed in a winning manner), and accordingly, the right start winning port 28a ( It is possible to win a prize at the second special start winning opening (variable winning means, ordinary electric accessory, operating means). The variable start winning device 28 has, for example, a pair of left and right movable pieces 28b, and these movable pieces 28b reciprocate in the left-right direction along the board surface by the action of a link mechanism using a solenoid (not shown), for example. That is, as shown by the solid line in FIG. 3, the left and right movable pieces 28b are in the closed position with their tips facing upward, and at this time, it is impossible to win the right start winning opening 28a (the game ball cannot enter). It is a state where there is no gap that can be sphere. On the other hand, when the variable start winning device 28 is activated, the left and right movable pieces 28b are displaced (expanded) from the closed position toward the open position, as shown by the two-dot chain line in FIG. The opening width of 28a is expanded to the left and right. During this time, the variable start winning device 28 is in a state in which it is possible to enter a game ball, and it is possible to generate a winning at the right start winning port 28a (variable winning means). Note that the arrangement (gauge) of the obstacle nails installed on the game board 8 basically does not extremely impede the flow of the game ball toward the variable start winning device 28 (the right start winning port 28a during operation). However, the game ball does not necessarily enter the variable start winning device 28 at the time of operation, and the ball is generated randomly.

  The variable winning device 30 operates when a prescribed condition is satisfied (when a special symbol is stopped and displayed in a mode other than non-winning), and enables winning to the big winning opening 30b (variable). Winning means, special electric equipment). The variable winning device 30 has, for example, a pair of left and right opening / closing members 30a, and these opening / closing members 30a also reciprocate in the left-right direction along the board surface by the action of a link mechanism using a solenoid (not shown), for example. That is, as shown by a solid line in FIG. 3, the left and right opening / closing members 30a are in the closed position with their tips facing upward, and at this time, winning in the big winning opening 30b is impossible (the game ball enters the ball). There is no gap that can be). On the other hand, when the variable winning device 30 is activated, the left and right opening / closing members 30a are displaced (expanded) from the closed position toward the open position as shown by the two-dot chain line in FIG. Then, the special winning opening 30b is opened (opening operation). During this time, the variable winning device 30 is in a state in which it is possible to enter a game ball, and it is possible to generate a winning at the big winning opening 30b (variable winning means). Similarly, the arrangement (gauge) of the obstacle nails installed in the game board 8 basically does not extremely impede the flow of the game ball toward the variable winning device 30 (the big winning opening 30b at the time of opening). However, the game ball does not necessarily enter the variable winning device 30 (large winning port 30b) at the time of the opening operation, and the winning ball is generated randomly.

  On the other hand, a game ball can be won through the ball guiding unit 40 to the middle start winning opening 26 located at the lower center in the game area 8a. Therefore, the game ball that has flowed down around the ball guiding unit 40 does not win the middle start winning opening 26 and needs to pass through the inside of the ball guiding unit 40 in order to win. Hereinafter, the configuration of the ball guiding unit 40 will be described.

[Configuration of ball guidance unit]
In the sphere guiding unit 40, for example, a sphere inflow port 40a is formed at the upper position of the left edge when viewed from the front. The ball inflow port 40a is opened, for example, in a diagonally upward left direction when viewed from the front, and the game ball flowing down the left side in the game area 8a is guided by obstacle nails installed around the ball inflow port 40a. However, it is possible to randomly flow into the sphere inlet 40a. Note that an accessory game start switch 200 is installed at the ball inlet 40 a, and a game ball flowing into the ball inlet 40 a is detected by the accessory game start switch 200.

  A first stage 40b is formed at an upper position inside the ball guiding unit 40, and the game ball that flows in from the ball inlet 40a first rolls onto the first stage 40b. The upper surface of the first stage 40b has a curved shape that is gently inclined toward the center, and the game ball rolling from the ball inlet 40a rolls in the left-right direction for a while on the first stage 40b.

  A drop passage 40c is formed at the center of the first stage 40b, and the drop passage 40c extends vertically downward. The game ball that has been rolling on the first stage 40b eventually enters the drop passage 40c and is guided vertically downward.

  Inside the ball guiding unit 40, an upper rotating body 44 is installed at a position almost directly below the drop passage 40c, and this upper rotating body 44 is unidirectionally (counterclockwise in this example) by an upper rotating body motor (not shown). Direction). The upper rotating body 44 has a plurality of (three in this example) ball receiving holes 44a formed in the peripheral edge thereof, and each of the ball receiving holes 44a of the drop passage 40c is formed along with the rotation of the upper rotating body 44. Pass through the point opposite the lower end. For this reason, the game ball that has entered the fall passage 40 c is inserted into one of the ball receiving holes 44 a and is directly guided in the rotation direction of the upper rotating body 44. In FIG. 3, a game ball guided in the ball receiving hole 44a is indicated by a two-dot chain line. In addition, a semicircular guide wall (no reference symbol in the figure) that is paired on the left and right is installed around the upper rotating body 44, and these guide walls are opened vertically above and below, respectively. Yes. The game ball inserted into the ball receiving hole 44a from the drop passage 40c is prevented from falling by the guide wall until the ball receiving hole 44a reaches a point vertically downward.

  In addition, a dot matrix LED display 42 is installed at a position almost directly below the upper rotating body 44, and a pair of drum units 214 are installed on the left and right sides of the ball guiding unit 40. The dot matrix LED display 42 and the drum unit 214 are located approximately in the middle of the sphere guiding unit 40, and the lateral width of the sphere guiding unit 40 is maximum at the middle position.

  The dot matrix LED display 42 is configured by, for example, arranging dot light emitting sections by multicolor LEDs (or full color LEDs) (not shown) in a matrix, and each dot light emitting section emits light by a multicolor LED (not shown). By doing so, a design pattern, characters and the like are displayed. The left and right drum units 214 have small drums 214a and 214b, for example, in a transparent cover, for example. Each of the drums 214a and 214b is provided with a design pattern or characters. The drums 214a and 214b can be rotated in the vertical direction by a stepping motor (not shown).

  In addition, a second stage 40 d is formed in the ball guiding unit 40 at a position below the dot matrix LED display 42. The second stage 40d extends, for example, in the left-right direction across the left and right drum units 214, and its upper surface has a downward slope toward the center position. The game ball that has been inserted into the ball receiving hole 44a of the upper rotating body 44 falls onto the second stage 40d when the ball receiving hole 44a reaches a point where the ball receiving hole 44a is directed vertically downward along with the rotation. The dropped game ball rolls on the second stage 40d for a while.

  Another drop passage 40e is formed at the center position of the second stage 40d, and the game ball rolling on the second stage 40d eventually enters the drop passage 40e and is guided vertically downward as it is. Is done.

  In addition, a lower rotating body 45 is installed in the ball guiding unit 40 at a position almost directly below the drop passage 40e. The lower rotating body 45 is rotated in one direction (in this example, clockwise by a lower rotating body motor not shown). Direction). The lower rotating body 45 is also formed with a plurality (three in this example) of ball receiving holes 45a at the peripheral edge thereof, and each of the ball receiving holes 45a is formed in the drop passage 40e as the lower rotating body 45 rotates. Pass through the point opposite the lower end. For this reason, the game ball that has entered the fall passage 40e is inserted into one of the ball receiving holes 45a and is directly guided in the rotation direction of the lower rotating body 45. In FIG. 3, a game ball guided in the ball receiving hole 45a is indicated by a two-dot chain line. In addition, a semicircular guide wall (no reference numeral in the figure) that is paired on the left and right sides is also provided around the lower rotating body 45, and these guide walls are also opened vertically and below, respectively. ing. The game ball inserted into the ball receiving hole 45a from the drop passage 40e is prevented from falling by the guide wall until the ball receiving hole 45a reaches a point vertically downward.

  Further, inside the ball guiding unit 40, a sorting body 40f (sorting operation means) is installed at a position almost directly below the lower rotating body 45, and a discharge passage 40g is installed at a position almost directly below the sorting body 40f. ing. Of these, the sorting body 40f has a shape like a single bridge in a top view, and when the rear side is the base end when viewed from the front, the sorting body 40f has a guide groove extending from the base end portion toward the near side. Forming. The sorting body 40f can guide the game ball toward the near side along the guide groove and release it from the tip. Further, the base end portion has a circular depression shape, and the game ball can be received in the depression. When the game ball that has been inserted into the ball receiving hole 45a of the lower rotating body 45 reaches the point where the ball receiving hole 45a goes vertically downward with the rotation, the game ball falls from there to the base end portion of the sorting body 40f. . The dropped game ball is guided to the guide groove through the base end portion and rolls in the forward direction as it is.

  The discharge passage 40g is fixed and guides the game ball vertically downward. On the other hand, the sorting body 40f reciprocates (swings) in the left-right direction around the base end portion, for example, by a sorting motor not shown. For this reason, when the game ball is released at the timing when the tip of the guide groove is located just above the discharge passage 40g in the process of reciprocating the sorting body 40f in the left-right direction, the game ball remains in the discharge passage 40g. Is released vertically downward. Then, the released game ball falls toward the middle start winning opening 26 and wins the middle starting winning opening 26 with a high probability.

  On the other hand, if the game ball is released at a timing when the tip of the guide groove is not located immediately above the discharge passage 40g in the process of the reciprocating movement of the sorting body 40f in the left-right direction, the game ball is placed in the discharge passage 40g. It is discharged from the ball guiding unit 40 without passing through. In this case, it is difficult for the released game ball to win the middle start winning opening 26. However, since there is some margin between the discharge passage 40g and the life nail of the middle start winning opening 26 (a drop of more than one game ball), the left and right obstacle nails are thrown into the middle starting winning opening 26. Winning may occur.

  In addition, an out port 32 is formed in the game area 8 a, and game balls that have not won a prize are finally collected through the out port 32 to the back side of the game board 8. In addition, all the games that have been driven into the game area 8a, including the game balls won in the normal winning opening 22, the variable start winning apparatus 28 (right start winning opening 28a) and the variable winning apparatus 30 (large winning opening 30b). The ball is collected to the back side of the game board 8. The collected game balls are discharged out of the frame from the back side of the pachinko machine 1 through an out passage assembly (not shown), and further join a supply path of an island facility (not shown).

  FIG. 4 is an enlarged front view showing a part of the game board 8 (lower left position in the window 4a). That is, the game board 8 is provided with a normal symbol display device 33 and a normal symbol operation storage lamp 33a (lottery element storage means) at the lower left position in the window 4a, for example, as well as a special symbol display device 34 and a game state display device. 38 is provided. Of these, the normal symbol display device 33, for example, turns on two lamps (LEDs) alternately to display the normal symbols in a variable manner, and stops and displays the normal symbols when the lamps are turned on or off (symbol display means, normal symbol display). means). The normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a displays 0 to 4 memory numbers according to a display mode constituted by, for example, a combination of turning off, lighting, and blinking of two lamps (LEDs). For example, in a display mode in which both lamps are extinguished, a memory number of 0 is displayed, in a display mode in which one lamp is lit, a memory number of 1 is displayed, and in a display mode in which the same one lamp is blinked. In the display mode in which two stored numbers are displayed, and in addition to blinking one lamp, the other lamp is lit, three stored numbers are displayed, and in the display mode in which the two lamps are flashed together, the stored number is four. For example, the individual is displayed. Here, although two lamps (LEDs) are used here, the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a may be configured using four lamps (LEDs). In this case, the number of working memories can be displayed by the number of lamps to be lit.

  The normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a changes to the display mode after being incremented one by one in the sense of memorizing the occurrence of an operation lottery trigger each time a game ball passes through the start gate 20. Then, every time a change of the normal symbol is started with the passage (up to 4) as a trigger, the display mode is changed by one by one. In the present embodiment, when the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a is not lit (the number of memories is 0), the game ball passes through the start gate 20 in a state where the normal symbol can already start to change (during stop display). The display mode does not change. That is, the memorized number (maximum 4) represented by the display mode of the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a represents the number of passages at which the variation of the normal symbol has not started yet.

  Further, the special symbol display device 34 can display the variation state and the stop state of the special symbol by, for example, a 7-segment LED (with dots) (symbol display means, special symbol display means). Since one special symbol is used in this embodiment, it is sufficient to provide one 7-segment LED as the special symbol display device 34. However, as shown in FIG. By mounting, the same hardware configuration (integrated display substrate 89) can be applied to other models using two special symbols. In the present embodiment, the working memory lamp and the working memory number display device corresponding to the special symbol are not provided. One special symbol may be displayed by two 7-segment LEDs.

  The game state display device 38 includes, for example, three LEDs respectively corresponding to a high probability state display lamp 38c, a time-short state display lamp 38d, and a launch position designation display lamp 38e (launch position designation display means). In FIG. 4, other lamps (LEDs) not particularly denoted by reference numerals are unused (blank). In the present embodiment, the above-described normal symbol display device 33, normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a, special symbol display device 34, and game state display device 38 are mounted on the game board 8 in a state of being mounted on one integrated display board 89. It has been.

[Other configuration of the game board: see FIG. 3]
The ball guiding unit 40 has an upper edge functioning as a guide member that changes the flow-down direction of the game ball, and includes various decorative parts (without reference numerals) inside the ball guiding unit 40. The decorative part enhances the decorativeness of the game board 8 by its three-dimensional modeling, and can perform a stunning operation by emitting transmitted light from, for example, a built-in light emitter (LED or the like).

  The dot matrix LED display 42 displays various effect images including effect symbols corresponding to the special symbols. As described above, the game board 8 impresses the player with the characteristics of the pachinko machine 1 based on the configuration of the board surface (design of a cell plate (not shown)) and the decorativeness of the ball guiding unit 40.

  Said side decoration lamp 400 decorates the game area 8a by the three-dimensional modeling (for example, modeling which piled up several analog record boards), and performs the production | presentation operation | movement by a built-in light emitter. The side decoration lamp 400 is used for switching the effect pattern (for example, BGM during a game) in cooperation with the effect switching gate 402 and the effect switching button 450 described above. For example, each time the player presses down the effect switching button 450, the lighting positions corresponding to a large number of analog record boards in the side decoration lamp 400 change. At this time, the lighting position corresponds to the type of BGM (some song title), and when the game ball passes through the effect switching gate 402, BGM corresponding to the lighting position is output.

[Control configuration]
Next, a configuration related to control of the pachinko machine 1 will be described. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing various electronic devices equipped in the pachinko machine 1. The pachinko machine 1 includes a main control device 70 that serves as the center of the control operation. The main control device 70 mainly has a function of controlling the progress of the game in the pachinko machine 1. The main controller 70 is built in the main control board unit 170 described above.

  The main controller 70 is equipped with a circuit board (main control board) on which a main control CPU 72 as a central processing unit is mounted. The main control CPU 72 includes a ROM 74 and a RAM (RWM) together with a CPU core and registers (not shown). ) This is configured as an LSI in which semiconductor memories such as 76 are integrated. The main controller 70 is equipped with a random number generator 75 and a sampling circuit 77. Among these, the random number generator 75 generates a hardware random number (for example, 0 to 65535 in decimal notation) for determining the big hit, and the generated random number is input to the main control CPU 72 through the sampling circuit 77. The In addition, the main controller 70 is equipped with peripheral ICs such as an input / output (I / O) port 79, a clock generation circuit (not shown), a counter / timer circuit (CTC), etc., and these are circuited together with the main control CPU 72. It is mounted on the board. A signal transmission path, a power supply path, a control bus, and the like are formed as wiring patterns on the circuit board (or the inner layer portion).

  The start gate 20 described above is integrally provided with a gate switch 78 for detecting the passage of a game ball. Further, the game board 8 is provided with a middle start winning port switch 80, a right start winning port switch 82 and a count switch 84 corresponding to the middle start winning port 26, the variable start winning device 28 and the variable winning device 30, respectively. . Among these, the middle start winning opening switch 80 and the right starting winning opening switch 82 are for detecting the winning of the game ball to the middle start winning opening 26 and the variable start winning apparatus 28 (right start winning opening 28a), respectively. . The count switch 84 is for detecting the winning of a game ball to the variable winning device 30 (large winning opening 30b) and counting the number.

  Similarly, the game board 8 is equipped with a winning port switch 86 for detecting the winning of a game ball to the normal winning port 22. The winning port switch 86 may be the same for all the normal winning ports 22, or a separate winning port switch 86 may be provided for each of the plurality of normal winning ports 22. For example, separate winning port switches 86 are installed on the left and right sides of the board, the left winning port switch 86 detects the winning of a game ball with respect to the normal winning port 22 located on the left side of the board, and the right winning port switch 86 It is good also as detecting the winning of the game ball with respect to the normal winning opening 22 located in the right side of a board surface.

  In any case, the winning detection signals of these switches 78 to 86 are input to the main control CPU 72 via an input / output driver (not shown). Note that due to the configuration of the game board 8, in this embodiment, winning detection signals from the gate switch 78, the count switch 84, and the winning opening switch 86 are transmitted via the panel relay terminal board 87. The panel relay terminal board 87 is provided with a wiring pattern, a connection terminal, and the like for relaying each winning detection signal.

  The display operation of the normal symbol display device 33, the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a, the special symbol display device 34, and the game state display device 38 described above is controlled based on a control signal from the main control CPU 72. The main control CPU 72 outputs control signals for the display devices 33, 34, and 38 and the lamp 33a in accordance with the progress of the game, and controls the lighting state of each LED. The display devices 33, 34, 38 and the lamp 33a are installed on the game board 8 in a state of being mounted on one integrated display substrate 89 as described above. A control signal is transmitted from the main control CPU 72 through the panel relay terminal board 87.

  Further, the game board 8 is provided with a normal electric accessory solenoid 88 and a big prize opening solenoid 90 corresponding to the variable start winning device 28 and the variable winning device 30, respectively. These solenoids 88 and 90 are operated (excited) based on a control signal from the main control CPU 72 to operate (open) the variable start winning device 28 and the variable winning device 30 respectively. The solenoids 88 and 90 also transmit control signals from the main control CPU 72 through the panel relay terminal plate 87 described above.

  Further, the game board 8 includes an upper rotating body motor 208, a lower rotating body motor 210, and a distributing body motor 212 corresponding to the upper rotating body 44, the lower rotating body 45, and the distributing body 40f in the ball guiding unit 40, respectively. Is provided. Of these, the upper rotating body motor 208 rotates the upper rotating body 44. The lower rotator motor 210 rotates the lower rotator 45. The sorting body motor 212 reciprocates the sorting body 40f using, for example, a link mechanism (not shown). Similarly, for these motors 208, 210, and 212, a control signal is transmitted from the main control CPU 72 via the panel relay terminal board 87.

  In the present embodiment, since the upper rotating body 44, the lower rotating body 45, and the sorting body 40f each perform a fixed operation after the power is turned on, the main controller 70 (main control CPU 72) controls the motors 208, 210, and 212. A drive signal for constant operation is output. For each of the motors 208, 210, and 212, an origin position related to rotation is detected using an index sensor (not shown). For this reason, the origin position detection signal from these index sensors is input to the main controller 70.

  The game board 8 is provided with a magnetic sensor 204 and a vibration sensor 206. Among these, the magnetic sensor 204 detects the magnetic flux flying to the game board 8 at the installation position, and the density (magnetic strength). A detection signal corresponding to is output. The vibration sensor 206 detects acceleration (vibration) applied to the game board 8 at the installation position, and outputs a detection signal corresponding to the magnitude. The detection signals of the magnetic sensor 204 and the vibration sensor 206 are input to the main controller 70 (main control CPU 72) through the panel relay terminal board 87, respectively.

  In addition, a glass frame opening switch 91 is installed in the glass frame unit 4, and a plastic frame opening switch 93 is installed in the plastic frame assembly 7. When the glass frame unit 4 is opened alone, a contact signal from the glass frame opening switch 91 is input to the main controller 70 (main control CPU 72), and when the plastic frame assembly 7 is opened from the outer frame assembly 2. The contact point signal from the plastic frame opening switch 93 is input to the main controller 70 (main control CPU 72). The main control CPU 72 can detect the open state of the glass frame unit 4 and the plastic frame assembly 7 from these contact signals. When the main control CPU 72 detects the open state of the glass frame unit 4 or the plastic frame assembly 7, the main control CPU 72 generates a door opening information signal as the external information signal.

  On the back side of the pachinko machine 1, a payout control device 92 is provided. The payout control device 92 (payout control computer) controls the operation of the payout device unit 172 described above. The payout control device 92 is equipped with a circuit board (payout control board) on which a payout control CPU 94 is mounted. The payout control CPU 94 is also an LSI in which a semiconductor memory such as a ROM 96 and a RAM 98 is integrated together with a CPU core (not shown). It is configured. The payout control device 92 (payout control CPU 94) controls the operation of the payout device unit 172 based on the prize ball instruction command from the main control CPU 72, and executes the payout operation of the requested number of game balls. The main control CPU 72 generates a prize ball information signal as the external information signal together with the prize ball instruction command.

  In a prize ball case (not shown) of the payout device unit 172, a payout device substrate 100 is installed together with a payout motor 102 (for example, a stepping motor). The payout device substrate 100 is provided with a drive circuit for the payout motor 102. Yes. The payout device substrate 100 specifically controls the rotation angle of the payout motor 102 based on the payout number instruction signal from the payout control device 92 (the payout control CPU 94), and pays out the designated number of game balls from the prize ball case. Let it come out. The paid-out game balls are sent to the tray unit 6 through the payout flow path in the flow path unit 173.

  Further, for example, a payout path ball cut switch 104 is installed at an upstream position of the prize ball case, and a payout counting switch 106 is installed at a downstream position of the payout motor 102. When a prize ball is actually paid out by driving the payout motor 102, a count signal from the payout count switch 106 is input to the payout device substrate 100 each time. Further, when a ball break occurs at an upstream position of the prize ball case, a contact signal from the payout path ball break switch 104 is input to the payout device substrate 100. The dispensing device substrate 100 transmits the input count signal and contact signal to the dispensing control device 92 (dispensing control CPU 94). The payout control CPU 94 can detect the actual payout number and the out-of-ball state based on the signal received from the payout device substrate 100.

  Further, the pachinko machine 1 is provided with a full switch 161, for example, inside the lower plate 6c (the position of the bowl as viewed from the front of the pachinko machine 1). The prize balls (game balls) that are actually paid out are discharged to the upper plate 6b through the flow path unit 173. When the upper plate 6b is full of game balls, As described above, it flows into the lower plate 6c. When the lower tray 6c is filled with game balls, the full tank switch 161 is turned ON, and a full tank detection signal is input to the payout control device 92 (payout control CPU 94). In response to this, even if the payout control CPU 94 receives a prize ball instruction command from the main control CPU 72, it temporarily suspends further prize ball operations, and stores the unpaid prize ball remaining number in the RAM 98. Note that the RAM 98 can be backed up even when the power is cut off, so that even if a power failure (including momentary power failure) occurs during the game, the information on the number of remaining unsold prize balls will not be lost. .

  On the back side of the pachinko machine 1, a firing solenoid 110 is installed together with the firing control board 108. In addition, a ball feeding solenoid 111 is provided in the tray unit 6. The launch control board 108, the launch solenoid 110, and the ball feed solenoid 111 constitute the launch control board set 174 described above, and the launch control board 108 is provided with drive circuits for the launch solenoid 110 and the ball feed solenoid 111. ing. Among these, the ball feed solenoid 111 performs an operation of sending out the game balls stored in the tray unit 6 one by one to a predetermined launch position in the launcher case. Moreover, the launch solenoid 110 hits the game ball sent to the launch position, and performs the operation of firing game balls one by one continuously (intermittently) toward the game area 8 as described above. The game ball is emitted at intervals of, for example, about 0.6 seconds (within 100 per minute).

  On the other hand, the grip unit 16 located on the front side of the pachinko machine 1 is provided with a firing lever volume 112, a touch sensor 114, and a firing stop switch 116. Among these, the firing lever volume 112 generates an analog signal proportional to the operation amount (so-called stroke) of the firing handle by the player. The touch sensor 114 detects that the player's body is touching the grip unit 16 (launching handle) from the change in capacitance, and outputs a detection signal. The firing stop switch 116 generates a firing stop signal (contact signal) in accordance with the player's operation.

  The above receiving tray unit 6 is provided with a launch relay terminal plate 118, and each signal from the launch lever volume 112, the touch sensor 114, and the launch stop switch 116 is sent via the launch relay terminal plate 118. Sent to. The drive signal from the launch control board 108 is applied to the ball feed solenoid 111 via the launch relay terminal board 118. When the player operates the firing handle, an analog signal (which may be an encoded digital signal) is generated by the firing lever volume 112 according to the operation amount, and the firing solenoid 110 is driven based on the signal at this time. Thereby, the strength of launching a game ball is adjusted according to the operation amount of the player. The drive circuit of the firing control board 108 stops driving the firing solenoid 110 when the detection signal from the touch sensor 114 is off (low level) or when the firing stop signal is input from the firing stop switch 116. . In addition to this, the launch relay terminal plate 118 is connected with a lending device connection terminal plate 120 such as a game ball, and when the above-mentioned CR unit is not connected to this lending device connection terminal plate 120 such as a game ball, the launch is similarly performed. The drive circuit of the control board 108 stops driving the firing solenoid 110.

  The tray unit 6 includes a frequency display board 122 and a rental / return switch board 123. Of these, the frequency display board 122 is provided with the display of the frequency display unit (7-segment LED for 3 digits). The lending / return switch board 123 has switch modules connected to the ball lending button 10 and the return button 12, respectively. When the ball lending button 10 or the return button 12 is operated, the operation signal is lended and It is transmitted from the return switch board 123 to the CR unit via the game ball rental device connecting terminal board 120. Further, a frequency signal indicating the remaining frequency of the valuable medium is transmitted from the CR unit to the frequency display board 122 via the game ball lending device connection terminal board 120. A display circuit (not shown) on the frequency display board 122 drives the display unit based on the frequency signal, and displays the remaining frequency of the valuable medium as a numerical value. If no valuable medium is inserted in the CR unit or the remaining frequency of the inserted valuable medium becomes zero, the display circuit of the frequency display board 122 drives the display device to display a demonstration (of the valuable medium). (Display for prompting input) can also be performed.

  The pachinko machine 1 includes an effect control device 124 as a control configuration. The effect control device 124 controls the effect accompanying the progress of the game in the pachinko machine 1. The effect control device 124 is also equipped with a circuit board (composite sub-control board) on which an effect control CPU 126 that is a central processing unit is mounted. The effect control CPU 126 includes a CPU core (not shown) and a semiconductor memory such as a ROM 128 and a RAM 130 as a main memory. The effect control CPU 126 can be of a type that is faster (high clock frequency) than the main control CPU 72 and has a wide data bus width (for example, 64 bits). The production control device 124 is provided at a position covered by the back cover unit 178 on the back side of the pachinko machine 1.

  The effect control device 124 is equipped with an input / output driver (not shown) and various peripheral ICs, as well as a lamp driving circuit 132 and an acoustic driving circuit 134. The production control CPU 126 performs production control based on the production command transmitted from the main control CPU 72, and gives commands to the lamp driving circuit 132 and the acoustic driving circuit 134 to emit various lamps 46 to 52 and the panel lamp 53. Or a process of actually outputting sound effects, voices, and the like from the speakers 54, 55, and 56.

  The lamp driving circuit 132 includes a switching element such as a PWM (pulse width modulation) IC or a MOSFET (not shown). The lamp driving circuit 132 switches driving voltages (or duty switching) applied to various lamps including LEDs. ) And manage the operation such as light emission and flashing. In addition to the glass frame top lamps 46 and 48, the glass frame side lamp 50, and the saucer lamp 52, the various lamps include a decoration / production board lamp 53 installed in the game board 8. The panel lamp 53 corresponds to an LED incorporated in the above-described effect unit, or an LED incorporated in the variable start winning device 28, the variable winning device 30, or the like. Here, although the example in which the saucer lamp 52 is connected to the glass frame decorating board 136 is given, a saucer illuminated board is installed in the saucer unit 6, and the saucer lamp 52 is interposed via the saucer illuminated board. It may be configured to be connected to the lamp driving circuit 132.

  The acoustic drive circuit 134 is, for example, a sound generator that includes a sound ROM, an acoustic control IC, an amplifier, and the like (not shown). The acoustic drive circuit 134 drives the upper speaker 54 and the lower speaker 56 to perform acoustic output.

  In the present embodiment, a glass frame decoration board 136 is installed on the inner surface of the glass frame unit 4, and drive signals from the lamp drive circuit 132 and the acoustic drive circuit 134 pass through the glass frame decoration board 136 and various lamps 46. To 52 and speakers 54, 55, and 56. In addition, the above-described effect switching button 450 is connected to the glass frame decorating board 136, and when the player operates the effect switching button 450, the contact signal is input to the effect control device 124 through the glass frame decorating board 136. Is done. In addition, although the example which connected the production | presentation switch button 450 to the glass frame electrical decoration board 136 is given here, when installing said saucer electrical decoration board, the production switch button 450 is connected to the saucer electrical decoration board. Also good.

  In addition, the panel board 138 is installed in the game board 8, and a driving signal from the lamp driving circuit 132 is applied to the panel lamp 53 via the panel board 138.

  As described above, the accessory game start switch 200 is provided at the ball inlet 40 a of the ball guiding unit 40. Further, the game board 8 is provided with a left effect changeover switch 202 in the effect changeover gate 402. Each of the accessory game start switch 200 and the left effect changeover switch 202 is a ball detector for generating some effect operation when the game ball passes. The detection signals of these switches 200 and 202 are transmitted via the panel illumination board 138 and input to the effect control CPU 126 via an input / output driver (not shown). Here, an example in which the accessory game start switch 200 and the left effect changeover switch 202 are connected to the effect control device 124 is taken as an example, but the accessory game start switch 200 and the left effect changeover switch 202 are used as the main control device. 70 may be connected. In this case, when the main control CPU 72 receives a detection signal from each of the switches 200 and 202, an effect command may be transmitted to the effect control CPU 126 for each.

  The dot matrix LED display 42 and the drum unit 214 are installed on the back side of the game board 8 so that the display screen and the transparent cover can be seen through the opening formed in the game board 8. Further, an effect drive control device 144 is installed on the back side of the game board 8, and the display operation by the dot matrix LED display 42 and the rotation operations of the drums 214 a and 214 b by the drum unit 214 are controlled by the effect drive control device 144. ing. The effect drive control device 144 is equipped with a circuit board (effect drive control board) on which a drive control CPU 146, which is a general-purpose central processing unit, is mounted. The drive control CPU 146 is configured as an LSI in which semiconductor memories such as a ROM 148 and a RAM 150 are integrated together with a CPU core (not shown).

  The ROM 128 of the effect control CPU 126 stores a basic program related to effect control, and the effect control CPU 126 executes effect control according to this program. The production control includes the production control using the various lamps 46 to 53 and the speakers 54, 55, and 56 as described above, the dot display production using the dot matrix LED display 42, and the drum unit 214. Control of drum effects using is included. The effect control CPU 126 transmits basic information (for example, effect number) regarding the effect to the drive control CPU 146, and the drive control CPU 146 that has received the information specifically outputs the dot matrix LED display based on the basic information. The lighting states of the 42 multi-color LEDs are individually controlled, and control for driving the driving motors (not shown) of the drums 214a and 214b is performed.

  In addition, a power supply control unit 162 is provided on the back side of the plastic frame assembly 7. The power supply control unit 162 has a built-in switching power supply circuit. When external power (for example, AC 24V) is taken from the island facility through the power cord 164, necessary power (for example, DC + 34V, + 12V) can be generated therefrom. The electric power generated by the power supply control unit 162 is distributed to the main control device 70, the payout control device 92, and the effect control device 124. Furthermore, power is supplied to the launch control board 108 via the payout control device 92, and power is supplied to the CR unit via the game ball rental device connection terminal board 120. In addition, power is supplied to the effect drive control device 144 via the effect control device 124, and power is distributed from the effect drive control device 144 to the dot matrix LED display 42 and the drum unit 214. The low voltage power for logic (for example, DC + 5V) is generated by a power supply IC (3-terminal regulator or the like) built in each device. Further, as described above, the power supply control unit 162 is grounded (grounded) to the island facility through the ground wire 166.

  The external terminal plate 160 is connected to the payout control device 92, and various external information signals generated by the main control device 70 (main control CPU 72) pass through the payout control device 92 to the external terminal plate 160. Is output to the outside. The main control device 70 (main control CPU 72) and the payout control device 92 (payout control CPU 94) can output an external information signal to the outside of the pachinko machine 1 through the external terminal board 160. The signals output from the external terminal board 160 are collected by, for example, a hall computer (not shown) in a game hall. Here, the configuration via the payout control device 92 is taken as an example, but a configuration in which an external information signal is directly output from the main control device 70 to the external terminal board 160 may be used.

[Game flow]
Next, FIG. 6 is a game flow diagram showing an example of a game flow by the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment. A normal game by the pachinko machine 1 is started by driving (launching) a game ball into the game area 8a. Hereinafter, the flow of the game will be described on the assumption that the game ball is launched.

[G01: Passing through the burrow]
When the game ball flows into the game area 8a and flows into the ball inlet 40a (inside the ball guiding unit 40), the accessory game start switch 200 detects the passage of the game ball.

[G02: Dot matrix LED production]
When the game ball flows into the ball inlet 40a, an effect using the dot matrix LED display 42 (the drum 214a may be used together) is started. The effect performed here is within an average required time until the game ball is guided by the upper rotating body 44 and the lower rotating body 45 inside the ball guiding unit 40 and finally released from the tip of the sorting body 40f. Done in By performing such an effect, the flow until the player pays attention to the movement of the game ball inside the ball guiding unit 40 and whether or not the game ball wins the middle start winning opening 26 is determined. Can attract more interest.

[G03: Special figure starting prize determination]
When the game ball that has flowed into the ball inlet 40a is finally released from the sorting body 40f but does not win the middle start winning port 26 (No), the game flow using the ball guiding unit 40 (so-called role) Game) is over. In this case, the game flow is restarted from the beginning.
On the other hand, when the game ball released from the sorting body 40f wins the middle start winning opening 26 (Yes), the game flow proceeds to the following.

[G04: Dot effect symbol variation]
With the winning at the middle start winning opening 26, the variation of the dot effect pattern using the dot matrix LED display 42 is started. At this time, internally, a random number for lottery is acquired on the game control by the main control CPU 72, and the special symbol display device 34 starts the variable symbol display. The dot effect design corresponds to, for example, the numbers “1” to “9” displayed in dots. In addition, the dot effect design comprises, for example, a combination of three numbers on the left, middle, and right. During the change, the left dot effect design, the middle dot effect design, and the right dot effect design change as the numbers come and go. Such an effect is performed.

[G05: Reach production lottery]
For example, a reach state (for example, “7” —during change— “7”, etc.) occurs in the left dot effect symbol and the right dot effect symbol, and an effect of determining the development destination of the subsequent reach effect is performed. In the present embodiment, there are “normal reach” or “battle reach” as the development destination of reach production, and either one is selected here. Of these, “normal reach” is, for example, a reach effect with a content that shows which number the medium dot effect symbol stops at. On the other hand, in the “battle reach production”, for example, the left and right drums 214a and 214b rotate, and display a pattern image of a different character, while using the dot matrix LED display 42 to develop some kind of battle (battle). It is a reach production of the content to display.

[G06, G07: dot big hit determination]
In the case of developing to “normal reach”, the result of the dot big hit determination becomes clear when the medium dot effect design stops. For example, if “7” -changing- “7” occurs as the reach state, and the medium dot effect symbol finally stops at the number “7”, “7”-“7”-“ 7 "is a big hit from dots. If the dot hit is not reached (No), the game flow ends here and starts again from the beginning.

  Or, if it develops to “Battle Reach”, if a character equivalent to a player's ally wins in battle, it will be a big hit with dots. In this case, a combination of three numbers “7”-“7”-“7” may be displayed together with the victory of the battle. Here again, if the dot hit is not won (No), the game flow ends here and starts over from the beginning.

[G08: Variable winning device operation (right-handed)]
When the dot big hit is reached (G06: Yes, G07: Yes), the variable winning device 30 is activated to enter the big hit state (special game state). In this case, it is possible to win the open variable winning device 30 (large winning opening 30b) by mainly driving the game ball into the right side portion in the game area 8a (so-called “right hit”).

[G09: Shift to time reduction state]
After the operation of the variable winning device 30 is finished, the normal state (non-time shortening state) is shifted to the time shortening state. When shifting to the time reduction state, the following flow is generated by continuously driving the game ball into the right side portion in the game area 8a.
(1) As the start gate 20 passes, the operation lottery corresponding to the normal symbol is won with higher probability (for example) than in the normal state (non-time shortened state).
(2) When the operation lottery is won and the normal symbol display device 33 stops displaying the normal symbol in a winning manner after fluctuation, the variable start winning device 28 is activated. As a result, it is possible to win the variable start winning device 28 (right start winning port 28a) that is operating while being “right-handed”.
(3) A big hit lottery (internal lottery) corresponding to a special symbol is performed in accordance with winning in the variable start winning device 28 (right start winning port 28a). At this time, the special symbol is in the “high probability state”, and the internal lottery is won with higher probability than in the normal state (low probability state).
(4) When the internal lottery is won and the special symbol display device 34 is stopped and displayed in a big-hit manner after the special symbol is changed, the variable winning device 30 is activated to enter the big-hit state (special game state). As a result, it is possible to win the variable winning device 30 (large winning opening 30b) that is being opened while being “right-handed”.

  Hereinafter, by repeating the above (1) to (4), it is possible to give a player a benefit (privilege) of paying out a prize ball for winning. In the present embodiment, an upper limit is set for the number of times that the “high probability state” can be continued even if the internal lottery is won in (3) (for example, about 20 times). For this reason, when the number of wins in (3) reaches the upper limit, the winning probability of the internal lottery becomes “low probability state” after the big hit in (4).

  However, even if the winning probability of the internal lottery is set to the “low probability state” after the big hit, the “time reduction state” may be added. The extent to which the “time reduction state” is added is determined by the type of the winning symbol at the time of winning in (3) above when the number of times that the “high probability state” can be continued reaches the maximum number of times. For example, when the winning symbol in which the “time reduction state” is continued up to about 9 times corresponds to (1) and (2), the above (1) and (2) are repeatedly executed up to 9 times. However, in this state, the winning probability of the internal lottery is “low probability state”, and the winning probability of the internal lottery is lower than that of the “high probability state”, so that it is possible to shift to the above (3) and (4). Whether or not it depends on the result of the internal lottery. If the winning is achieved within 9 times, it becomes the repetition of (1) to (4) through the above (4), and the player can enjoy the privilege (profit) for winning.

  Thus, since the pachinko machine 1 of this embodiment is a type of gaming machine in which the big hit state is repeated (looped) many times, it is assumed that one big hit game ends in two rounds. For this reason, it is not possible to get a lot of balls in one big hit, but after the big hit game, it will be in a high probability state and a time shortened state, and this will continue for 20 times. You can win a certain amount of balls. At this time, not only the variable winning device 30 but also the variable start winning device 28 is awarded, so the player can increase the number of balls to be played using the two winning devices.

  The above is the flow of the game by the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment, but the progress of such a game and the production accompanying it are controlled by electronic devices centering on the main control device 70 and the production control device 124 described above. Yes. Therefore, control processing executed by the main control CPU 72 of the main control device 70 will be described next.

[Reset start (main) processing]
When the pachinko machine 1 is powered on, the main control CPU 72 starts a reset start process. The reset start process restores the gaming state based on the backup information saved at the previous power shutdown (so-called power recovery) or conversely clears the backup information, thereby adjusting the initial state of the pachinko machine 1 Process. The reset start process is positioned as a main process (main control program) for guaranteeing a stable gaming operation of the pachinko machine 1 after adjusting the initial state.

  7 and 8 are flowcharts showing a procedure example of the reset start process. Hereinafter, the process performed by the main control CPU 72 will be described step by step.

  Step S101: First, the main control CPU 72 sets the top address of the stack area in the stack pointer.

  Step S102: Subsequently, the main control CPU 72 sets the vector-type interrupt mode (mode 2) and corrects the default RST-type interrupt mode (mode 0). Thus, thereafter, the main control CPU 72 can refer to an arbitrary address (however, the least significant bit is 0) as an interrupt vector and execute a designated interrupt handler.

  Step S103: The main control CPU 72 executes a standby process at reset. This process is for securing a certain standby time (for example, about several thousand ms) at the time of reset start (for example, power-on) and checking the main power-off detection signal during that time. Specifically, when the main control CPU 72 sets the loop counter for the waiting time, the main control CPU 72 bit-checks the input port of the main power-off detection signal while decrementing the value of the loop counter. The main power-off detection signal is input from, for example, a power monitoring IC that is a peripheral device. If the input of the main power-off detection signal is confirmed before the loop counter reaches 0, the main control CPU 72 restarts the process from the beginning. As a result, for example, the system can be protected when a main power switch (not shown) is turned on and off repeatedly within a short time (about 1 to 2 seconds).

  Step S104: Next, the main control CPU 72 permits access to the work area of the RAM 76. Specifically, the RAM protect setting value in the work area is reset (00H). As a result, thereafter, access to the work area of the RAM 76 is permitted.

  Step S105: Also, the main control CPU 72 performs initial setting of a mask register in order to set an interrupt mask. Specifically, a value for enabling the CTC interrupt is stored in the mask register.

  Step S106: The main control CPU 72 refers to the input signal from the previously cleared RAM clear switch and confirms whether or not the RAM clear switch has been operated (switch ON). If the RAM clear switch is not operated (No), step S107 is executed next.

  Step S107: Next, the main control CPU 72 checks whether or not backup information is stored in the RAM 76, that is, whether or not a backup validity determination flag is set. If the backup is normally completed in the previous power-off process and the backup validity determination flag (for example, “A55AH”) is set (Yes), then the main control CPU 72 executes step S108.

  Step S108: The main control CPU 72 executes a sum check on the backup information in the RAM 76. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sum-checks all areas of the work area of the RAM 76 (a user work area including a use-prohibited area and a stack area) except the backup validity determination flag and the sum check buffer. If the result of the sum check is normal (Yes), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S109.

Step S109: The main control CPU 72 resets the backup validity determination flag (for example, “0000H”).
Step S110: The main control CPU 72 clears the command waiting for transmission immediately before the occurrence of the previous power interruption.

  Step S111: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes an effect control return process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 transmits a return command (for example, a model designation command, a special symbol probability state designation command, a remaining count counter command, a special game state designation command, etc.) to the effect control device 124. In response to this, the effect control device 124 performs the effect state (for example, time reduction state, internal probability state, dot effect pattern display mode, sound output content, light emission state of various lamps, etc.) that was being executed at the previous power shutdown. ) Can be restored.

  Step S112: The main control CPU 72 executes state return processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sets various values in the work area of the RAM 76 based on the backup information, and the gaming state (for example, the display state of special symbols, the internal probability state, The operation memory contents, various flag states, random number update states, etc.) are restored. The main control CPU 72 restores the backed up PC register value.

  On the other hand, when the RAM clear switch is operated at power-on (step S106: Yes), when the backup validity determination flag is not set (step S107: No), or when the backup information is not normal. (Step S108: No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to Step S113.

Step S113: The main control CPU 72 clears the stored contents other than the use prohibited area of the RAM 76. As a result, the work area and stack area of the RAM 76 are all initialized, and even if valid backup information is stored, the contents are erased.
Step S114: The main control CPU 72 performs initial setting of the RAM 76.

  Step S115: The main control CPU 72 executes an effect control output process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 outputs a command (command necessary for effect control) to be transmitted to the effect control device 124 after the initial setting.

  Step S116: The main control CPU 72 executes a payout control output process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 outputs an instruction command for starting the payout of prize balls to the payout control device 92.

  Step S117: The main control CPU 72 executes CTC initial setting processing, and performs initial setting of a CTC (counter / timer circuit) that is a peripheral device. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sets an interrupt vector register and sets an interrupt count value (for example, 4 ms) in the CTC. As a result, when a CTC interrupt occurs next time, the main control CPU 72 can continue the processing from the program address of the PC register that has been backed up.

  When the above procedure is executed in the reset start process, the main control CPU 72 shifts to the main loop shown in FIG. 8 (connection symbol A → A).

  Step S118, Step S119: The main control CPU 72 executes the power interruption occurrence check process after prohibiting interruption. In this process, the main control CPU 72 performs bit check on the input port of the main power-off detection signal and monitors the occurrence of power-off (decrease in supply voltage). When the power is cut off, the main control CPU 72 clears the output port buffers corresponding to the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 88 and the special winning opening solenoid 90, and the entire area excluding the backup validity judgment flag and the sum check buffer in the work area of the RAM 76. Back up the contents and save the sum result value in the sum check buffer. Then, the main control CPU 72 stores the valid value (for example, “A55AH”) in the backup validity determination flag area, prohibits access to the RAM 76, and stops (NOP) the process. On the other hand, if the power shutoff does not occur, the main control CPU 72 next executes step S120. There is also a known programming example in which the CPU executes the process at the time of the occurrence of power interruption as a non-maskable interrupt (NMI) process.

  Step S120: The main control CPU 72 executes an initial value update random number update process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 increments random numbers for updating (changing) initial values of various software random numbers. In this embodiment, various random numbers (for example, a hit determination random number corresponding to a normal symbol, a hit symbol random number, a jackpot symbol random number, a reach determination random number, a variation pattern determination random number, etc.) other than the jackpot determination random number (hardware random number) are programmed. It is generated above. Note that the fluctuation pattern determination random number and the reach determination random number corresponding to the special symbol can be generated as necessary, and if not used, the random number generation process can be omitted. In any case, these software random numbers are updated by a loop counter within a predetermined range in another interrupt process (step S201 in FIG. 10), but each time the random number value makes one round in this process, the loop counter The initial value (not all random numbers need to be targeted) is changed. The initial value updating random number is used to randomly change the initial value, and in step S120, the initial value updating random number is updated. Note that the reason why step S120 is executed after the interruption is prohibited in step S118 is that the same process is executed in another interrupt management process (step S202 in FIG. 10). ) To prevent the above). As described above, in this embodiment, the big hit determination random number is a hardware random number generated by the random number generator 75, and its update cycle is faster (eg, several μs) than the timer interrupt cycle (eg, several ms). Therefore, it is not necessary to update the initial value of the jackpot determination random number.

  Step S121, Step S122: The main control CPU 72 permits the interrupt and executes other random number update processing. The random numbers updated by this processing are random numbers (reach determination random numbers, variation pattern determination random numbers, etc.) that are not related to the determination of the winning type (winning type) among software random numbers. This process is performed in the remaining time when a timer interrupt occurs during execution of the main loop and the main control CPU 72 executes another interrupt management process (FIG. 10). The contents of the interrupt management process will be described later.

[Power failure check processing]
FIG. 9 is a flowchart specifically illustrating a procedure example of the power-off occurrence check process.
Step S130: First, the main control CPU 72 sets a condition for checking the occurrence of power interruption. This check condition can be set as an on-counter value for confirming that the main power-off detection signal is continuously output, for example.

  Step S132: Next, the main control CPU 72 reads the main power-off detection switch input port and confirms whether or not the main power-off detection signal is output (checks a specific bit). Although not particularly illustrated, the main power-off detection switch is mounted on the main controller 70, for example, and this main power-off detection switch monitors the drive voltage supplied from the power control unit 162, and the voltage level is monitored. When the voltage falls below the reference voltage, the main power-off detection signal is output. Note that the main power-off detection switch may be built in the power control unit 162. When the main control CPU 72 confirms that the main power-off detection signal is not output at this time (No), the main control CPU 72 exits this process and returns to the reset start process. On the other hand, when it is confirmed that the main power-off detection signal is output (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S134.

  Step S134: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the above check conditions are satisfied. Specifically, for example, 1 is subtracted from the on-counter value set in the previous step S130, and it is confirmed whether or not the result is 0. If the on-counter value is not yet 0 at this time (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to step S132 and reconfirms the main power-off detection switch input port. When the check condition is satisfied by repeating the loop from step S134 to step S132 (step S134: Yes), the main control CPU 72 then proceeds to step S136.

  Step S136: The main control CPU 72 clears the output port buffer corresponding to the test signal terminal and the command control signal in addition to the output port corresponding to the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 88 and the big prize opening solenoid 90 as described above.

Step S138, Step S140: Next, the main control CPU 72 adds the entire contents excluding the backup validity determination flag and the sum check buffer in the work area of the RAM 76 in units of 1 byte, and repeats until the addition is completed for all areas. .
Step S142: When the calculation of the sum is completed for all the areas (Step S140: Yes), the main control CPU 72 stores the sum result value in the sum check buffer.

Step S144: Next, the main control CPU 72 stores the valid value in the backup validity determination flag area as described above.
Step S146: The main control CPU 72 stores “01H” indicating access prohibition in the protect value of the RAM 76, and prohibits access to the work area (including the use prohibition area and the stack area) of the RAM 76.
Step S148: Then, the main control CPU 72 enters a standby loop and stops all other processes in preparation for shutting off the main power supply. After the main power is cut off, the backup power is supplied from a backup power circuit (not shown) (for example, a circuit including a capacitive element mounted on the main controller 70), so the stored contents of the RAM 76 are lost even after the main power is turned off. Held without. The backup power supply circuit may be incorporated in the power supply control unit 162, for example.

  Through the above processing, all the information stored in the work area of the RAM 76 to be backed up (sum added) is retained in the RAM 76 even after the main power is turned off. The stored memory is restored as backup information when the power is turned off after confirming that the checksum is normal in the previous reset start process (FIG. 7).

[Interrupt management processing (timer interrupt processing)]
Next, interrupt management processing (timer interrupt processing) will be described. FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary procedure of interrupt management processing. The main control CPU 72 executes an interrupt management process every predetermined time (for example, several ms) based on the interrupt request signal from the counter / timer circuit. Each procedure will be described below.

  Step S200: First, the main control CPU 72 saves the values of the registers (accumulator A, flag register F, and general-purpose registers B to L) used during execution of the main loop in the save area of the RAM 76. Another value can be written in the registers (A to L) after the value is saved in the interrupt management process.

  Step S201: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a lottery random number update process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 updates the value of the counter for generating various random numbers for lottery. The value of each counter is incremented in the random number counter area of the RAM 76 and loops within a specified range. The various random numbers include, for example, jackpot symbol random numbers, normal symbol random numbers determined, and the like.

  Step S202: The main control CPU 72 executes the initial value update random number update process also here. The content of the process is the same as described above.

  Step S203: The main control CPU 72 executes input processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 inputs various switch signals from the input / output (I / O) port 79 (winning detection information generating means). Specifically, the detection signal from the gate switch 78 and the input state (ON / OFF) of the winning detection signal from the middle start winning port switch 80, the right starting winning port switch 82, the count switch 84, and the winning port switch 86 are set. To lead.

  Step S204: Here, the main control CPU 72 executes a security management process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines whether or not an illegal winning has occurred based on the input state (ON / OFF) of the winning detection signal read in the previous input process (step S203). Determination means). If it is determined that an illegal winning has occurred, the main control CPU 72 generates an illegal winning error command (illegal winning information generating means), and rewrites the bit of the winning detection signal due to the illegal winning from ON to OFF (winning detection information). Erasing means). In addition, the main control CPU 72 monitors fraudulent acts by the magnetic sensor 204 and the vibration sensor 206, and determines whether or not excessive winning or passing of the gate 402 has occurred. The details of the security management process will be described later using another flowchart.

  Step S205: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes switch input event processing. In this process, a process based on a signal that is maintained without being erased as an illegal prize among the switch signals input in the previous input process is performed. For example, the main control CPU 72 determines an event that occurred during the game based on a passage detection signal from the gate switch 78 and a winning detection signal from the middle starting winning port switch 80 or the right starting winning port switch 82, and each occurred. Further processing is executed according to the event. The specific contents of the switch input event process will be described later with reference to another flowchart.

  In this embodiment, when a winning detection signal (ON) is input from the middle start winning opening switch 80 or the right starting winning opening switch 82, the main control CPU 72 becomes an internal lottery opportunity (lottery opportunity) corresponding to the special symbol. It is determined that an event has occurred. When the passage detection signal (ON) is input from the gate switch 78, the main control CPU 72 determines that an event serving as a lottery trigger corresponding to the normal symbol has occurred. If it is determined that any event has occurred, the main control CPU 72 executes a process corresponding to each event. The main control CPU 72 selects a switch-specific prize for distinguishing which of the middle start prize opening switch 80 and the right start prize opening switch 82 causes an internal lottery event (lottery opportunity). The command may be transmitted to the effect control CPU 126.

  Step S206, Step S207: The main control CPU 72 executes a special symbol game process and a normal symbol game process during the interrupt management process. These processes are for specifically proceeding with the game in the pachinko machine 1. Among these, in the special symbol game process (step S206), the main control CPU 72 controls the execution of the internal lottery corresponding to the special symbol described above, controls the variable display and stop display by the special symbol display device 34, The operation of the variable winning device 30 is controlled according to the display result. Details of the special symbol game process will be described later with reference to another flowchart.

  In the normal symbol game process (step S207), the main control CPU 72 controls the variable display and stop display by the normal symbol display device 33 described above, and controls the operation of the variable start winning device 28 according to the display result. To do. For example, the main control CPU 72 stores a random number (ordinary random number per normal symbol) acquired in response to the passage of the start gate 20 in the previous switch input event processing (step S205), and in the normal symbol game processing The random number value is read out from the memory, and it is determined whether or not it falls within a predetermined hit range. When the random number value falls within the hit range, the normal symbol display device 33 displays the normal symbol in a variable manner, and after stopping the normal symbol in a predetermined hit state, the main control CPU 72 switches the normal electric accessory solenoid 88 on. The variable start winning device 28 is operated by excitation. On the other hand, if the random number value is out of the hit range, the main control CPU 72 performs a normal symbol stop display in a manner of deviation after the variable display.

  Step S208: The main control CPU 72 executes a motor management process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 detects the origin position relating to the rotation of various motors (upper rotating body motor 208, lower rotating body motor 210, sorting body motor 212, etc.), and outputs drive signals to the various motors. If so, the drive signal is stored in the corresponding port output request buffer. Note that the upper rotating body motor 208, the lower rotating body motor 210, the sorting body motor 212, and the like all rotate in a predetermined pattern from when the power is turned on as described above. For example, the upper rotator motor 208 and the lower rotator motor 210 are each rotated in one direction at a determined rotational speed, or one while changing the rotational speed at a certain long period (for example, a period of several minutes). Rotating in the direction. The sorter motor 212 rotates in one direction at a fixed rotation speed, or rotates in one direction while changing the rotation speed at a certain long period. Therefore, the main control CPU 72 generates a drive signal based on the rotation pattern corresponding to each motor in the motor management process.

  Step S209: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes prize ball payout processing. In this process, based on the winning detection signals input from the various switches 80, 82, 84, 86 in the previous input process (step S203), a prize ball instruction command for instructing the payout control device 92 the number of prize balls is issued. Output. Further, the main control CPU 72 generates a prize ball number command for the effect control device 124 and stores it in the command buffer.

  Step S210: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes external information processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sends the above external information signals (for example, prize ball information, door opening information, symbol determination number information, jackpot information, start port information, security error information) to the hall computer in the game hall through the external terminal board 160. Information etc.) is stored in the port output request buffer.

  In the present embodiment, among various external information signals, for example, “big hit 1” to “big hit 5” are output to the outside as jackpot information, so that an external electronic device (data display device) connected to the pachinko machine 1 is output. Can provide a variety of jackpot information. In other words, the jackpot information is divided into a plurality of “big hit 1” to “big hit 5” and output, so that the type of jackpot (winning type) from these combinations can be tabulated and managed by a hall computer (not shown) or internal It is possible to recognize a change in a probability state (low probability state or high probability state) or a shortened state of symbol variation time. Based on the jackpot information, for example, a data display device (not shown) counts and displays the number of jackpot occurrences within the past several business days for each pachinko machine 1, and recognizes whether or not each jackpot is currently hit. Or for each table, it can be recognized whether or not the current symbol variation time is in a shortened state. In this external information processing, the main control CPU 72 controls each output state (set of ON or OFF) of “big hit 1” to “big hit 5” in detail.

  Step S211: The main control CPU 72 executes test signal processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 generates various test signals representing its internal state (for example, normal symbol game management state, special symbol game management state, jackpot, probability variation function in operation, time reduction function in operation). These are stored in the port output request buffer. With this test signal, for example, the internal state of the main control CPU 72 can be tested outside the main controller 70.

  Step S212: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes display output management processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 controls the lighting state of the normal symbol display device 33, the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a, the special symbol display device 34, the game state display device 38, and the like. Specifically, the drive signal stored in the port output request buffer is output to the port in the previous special symbol game process (step S206) or the normal symbol game process (step S207). The drive signal is stored in the port output request buffer as byte data to be applied to each LED. As a result, each LED is driven in a predetermined display mode (a mode in which symbol variation display or stop display, normal symbol operation memory number display, game state display, or the like) is performed. The specific processing content will be described later using another flowchart.

  Step S213: The main control CPU 72 executes output management processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 outputs the external information signal (byte data) stored in the port output request buffer in the previous external information processing (step S210). Further, the main control CPU 72 outputs the drive signals, test signals, and the like of the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 88 and the special prize opening solenoid 90 stored in the port output request buffer together.

  Step S214: The main control CPU 72 executes effect control output processing. In this processing, it is confirmed whether or not there is a command (command necessary for presentation control) that the main control CPU 72 should transmit to the presentation control device 124 in the command buffer. Output port.

  Step S215: The main control CPU 72 clears the port output request buffer stored by the current CTC interrupt.

  In the present embodiment, an example is given in which the processing (game control program module) of step S206 to step S214 is executed as a timer interrupt processing. However, these processings are executed by being incorporated in the main loop of the CPU. There is also a programming example.

  Step S216: When the above processing is completed, the main control CPU 72 stores a value (01H) for designating the end of the interrupt in the interrupt program counter, and ends the CTC interrupt.

  Steps S217 and S218: The main control CPU 72 restores the saved values of the registers (A to L) and permits the next CTC interrupt. Thereafter, the main control CPU 72 returns to the main loop (program address indicated by the stack pointer).

[Security management processing]
FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the security management process executed in the interrupt management process. The contents of the security management process will be described below along with an example procedure.

  Step S220: First, the main control CPU 72 executes an illegal winning detection process. In this process, for example, whether the input state of the winning detection signal read in the previous input process is “ON” is determined based on the following conditions as to whether or not it corresponds to an illegal winning.

(1) During a series of operations related to the variable prize device 30 (special electric appliance) and after a period of time from the end of the operation until a predetermined time (for example, about 3.4 seconds) elapses, the prize winning opening 30b is awarded What happened.
(2) During a series of operations related to the variable start winning device 28 (ordinary electric accessory) and after a predetermined time (for example, about 3.4 seconds) has elapsed from the end of the operation to the right start winning port 28a A prize has occurred.

[Addition of illegal prize counter]
The determination using the above condition (1) is performed with reference to the value of the special game management status and the value of the winning valid timer in the interruption cycle in which the winning detection signal (ON) from the count switch 84 is input, for example. be able to. When the condition (1) is satisfied, the main control CPU 72 adds 1 to the value of the illegal prize counter. The special game management status and the winning valid timer will be described later.

  The determination using the condition (2) refers to, for example, the value of the normal game management status and the value of the valid time timer in the interruption period in which the winning detection signal (ON) from the right start winning opening switch 82 is input. Can be done. Even when the condition (2) is satisfied, the main control CPU 72 adds 1 to the value of the illegal prize counter. The normal game management status and the winning valid timer will be described later.

[An illegal winning error occurs]
Then, the conditions (1) and (2) are determined for each interrupt cycle, and when the value of the illegal prize counter reaches a specified value (for example, five), the main control CPU 72 uses the illegal prize error flag as internal information. Is turned ON (= 1). As a result, an “illegal prize error” occurs in the pachinko machine 1.

  Step S222: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes magnetic detection processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the presence or absence of fraud (so-called “magnet goto”) based on the detection signal from the magnetic sensor 204. As a result, when a magnetic flux corresponding to an illegal act is detected, the main control CPU 72 sets the security error flag to ON (= 1). As a result, another “security error” occurs in the pachinko machine 1.

  Step S224: The main control CPU 72 executes vibration detection processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the presence / absence of a fraudulent act (so-called “throbbing”) based on the detection signal from the vibration sensor 206. As a result, when a vibration that is recognized as an illegal act is detected, the main control CPU 72 also turns on the security error flag.

  Step S226: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a winning excess detection process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 counts the number of winning occurrences per fixed time (for example, 1 minute), and determines whether or not an excessive winning amount equivalent to an illegal act has occurred. If it is determined that the winning is exceeded, the main control CPU 72 also turns on the security error flag.

  Step S228: The main control CPU 72 executes a passage excess detection process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 counts the number of occurrences of passage of the start gate 20 per fixed time (for example, 1 minute), and determines whether or not an excess corresponding to an illegal act has occurred. If it is determined that it exceeds the limit, the main control CPU 72 also turns on the security error flag.

  Step S230: The main control CPU 72 checks the values of the “illegal prize error flag” and the “security error flag”. When any error flag is set to ON (= 1) (Yes), the main control CPU 72 executes the next step S232. If none of the error flags is set to ON (No), the main control CPU 72 does not execute step S232.

  Step S232: In this case, the main control CPU 72 executes error command processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 generates an error command (error state designation command) to be transmitted to the effect control device 124 (effect control CPU 126), and transfers the value to the command transmission buffer. The error command can set a different value for each error that has occurred. For example, when the “illegal prize error flag” is ON, a value that can be identified as “illegal prize error” is set in the error command, and when the “security error flag” is ON, a value that can be identified as “security error”. Set to error command. The error command generated here is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the subsequent effect control output process (step S214 in FIG. 10).

Step S234: Further, the main control CPU 72 executes an illegal winning mask process here. In this process, all winning detection signals satisfying the above conditions (1) and (2) are switched from ON to OFF regardless of whether or not the illegal winning error detection process (step S220) determines that the winning prize is incorrect. rewrite. The specific processing content will be further described later using another flowchart.
When the above procedure is executed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the interrupt management process.

[Operation example of variable start winning device]
FIG. 12 is a diagram for explaining an operation example of the variable start winning device. Although an example of the operation of the variable start winning device 28 will be described here, the operation of the variable winning device 30 is basically the same as that of the variable start winning device 28. However, in the case of the variable winning device 30, the number of times of opening and the opening time are set values different from those of the variable start winning device 28.

[Closed]
In FIG. 12, (A): When the variable start winning device 28 is closed, the left and right movable pieces 28b are in a closed position with their respective tips facing upward, and there is no gap into which the game ball 300 can enter. Therefore, winning in the variable start winning device 28 is impossible. For this reason, the game ball 300 flowing down the game area does not enter the variable start winning device 28 even if it collides (contacts) with the variable start winning device 28.

[Opening start]
In FIG. 12, (B): When the winning result is obtained in the normal symbol lottery and the normal symbol is stopped and displayed in the winning mode, the left and right movable pieces 28b are displaced (expanded) from the closed position toward the open position. Open) and widen the opening width of the variable start winning device 28 to the left and right. In this case, the variable start winning device 28 can enter the game ball 300, and the variable start winning device 28 (right start winning port 28a) can be awarded.

[Opening]
In FIG. 12, (C): The variable start winning device 28 continues the open state until a predetermined open time elapses. However, when a predetermined number of winnings or more are detected within the opening time, the variable start winning device 28 is closed without waiting for the opening time to elapse. Note that the opening time of the variable start winning device 28 is different between the non-time shortened state and the time shortened state, and a short open time (for example, 0.1 second) is applied in the non-time shortened state. In the time reduction state, a long open time (for example, 5.0 seconds) is applied.

[Closed]
In FIG. 12, (D): When the opening time of the variable start winning device 28 elapses or when a predetermined number of winnings or more are detected within the opening time, the left and right movable pieces 28b are in a state in which each tip is directed upward. Returning to the closed position, the variable start winning device 28 is closed. When the variable start winning device 28 returns to the closed state, the game ball 300 flowing down the game area does not enter the variable start winning device 28.

  The above is the basic operation of the variable start winning device 28. If a ball bit occurs while the variable start winning device 28 is opened, the following operation is performed. “Ball biting” means that the game ball is clogged for some reason when the variable start winning device 28 is in an open state.

[Operation example of the variable start winning device during ball biting]
FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining an operation example when the ball biting occurs in the variable start winning device. Here, the ball biting in the variable start winning device 28 will be described, but the ball biting may occur in the variable winning device 30 according to the same principle.

[Closed]
In FIG. 13, (A): When the variable start winning device 28 is closed, the left and right movable pieces 28b are in the closed position with their tips facing upward, and it is impossible to win the variable start winning device 28. It has become. For this reason, the game ball 300 flowing down the game area does not enter the variable start winning device 28 even if it collides with the variable start winning device 28.

[Opening (ball chewing first example)]
In FIG. 13, (B): When the winning result is obtained in the normal symbol lottery and the normal symbol is stopped and displayed in the winning mode, the left and right movable pieces 28b are displaced (expanded) from the closed position toward the open position. Open) and widen the opening width of the variable start winning device 28 to the left and right. In this case, the variable start winning device 28 can enter the game ball 300, and the variable start winning device 28 (right start winning port 28a) can be awarded.

However, in the case of this operation example, the ball biting occurs inside the variable start winning device 28. The variable start winning device 28 can enter the game ball 300 from either the left or right direction of the variable start winning device 28 when the left and right movable pieces 28b move to the open state.
For this reason, two game balls 300 may enter substantially simultaneously from both sides of the variable start winning device 28 where the movable piece 28b is open.

  In this way, when two game balls 300 enter the variable start winning device 28 at the same time, the two game balls 300 may be arranged between the left and right movable pieces 28b. In this case, the two game balls 300 are sandwiched between the movable pieces 28b from the left and right directions, and the two game balls 300 cannot move, and a ball clog occurs.

  In FIG. 13, (C): At this time, if the degree of the ball biting is moderate, the ball biting is naturally canceled by the weight of the game ball 300 and the variable start winning device 28 may be won. Alternatively, when the game ball 300 that has entered the variable start winning device 28 collides with the two game balls 300 that are causing the ball clogging, the impact of the ball may be eliminated. In any case, since the stop of the game ball 300 is released after the ball bite is eliminated, the game ball 300 enters the variable start winning device 28.

[Opening (Ball biting second example)]
In FIG. 13, (D): On the other hand, even if the game ball 300 enters only from one side of the variable start winning device 28, if the game ball 300 enters when the movable piece 28b closes, the movable piece 28b and the others The game ball 300 may be sandwiched between the member 29 and the bite of the ball. Usually, the force for returning the movable piece 28b to the closed position is not set so strong. For this reason, even if the game ball 300 enters the variable start winning device 28 at the moment when the movable piece 28b is closed, the force that causes the game ball 300 to open the movable piece 28b by its own weight (the game ball 300 opens the movable piece 28b in the opening direction). The pushing force) exceeds the force by which the movable piece 28b returns to the closed position. Therefore, normally, the entry of the game ball 300 is given priority and the winning at the variable start winning device 28 is generated. However, even if the power relationship between the two rarely balances, the ball at the variable start winning device 28 is rarely balanced. Biting may occur.

  In FIG. 13, (E): At this time, if the degree of biting of the ball is moderate, the ball biting is naturally canceled by the weight of the game ball 300 and the variable start winning device 28 may be won. Alternatively, the ball chewing may be eliminated by the next collision of the game ball 300 approaching the variable start winning device 28 with the game ball 300 causing the ball clogging. In any case, since the stop of the game ball 300 is released after the ball bite is eliminated, the game ball 300 enters the variable start winning device 28.

[Closed]
In FIG. 13, (F): When the ball biting is eliminated, the opening time of the variable start winning device 28 has already passed, so the left and right movable pieces 28b are in a state where their respective tips are directed upward. Returning to the closed position, the variable start winning device 28 is closed. However, in this case, since it takes a certain amount of time to eliminate the ball bite, if the effective time of the variable start winning device 28 has already passed, the win after the ball bite is not recognized as an effective win. It becomes. As described above, if the winning after the ball biting is not recognized as an effective winning, the game ball payout process is not executed for the winning, which is disadvantageous for the player. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the following measures for ball biting are taken.

[Example of a right start winning entrance]
14 to 16 are timing charts showing temporal changes in various situations at the right start winning opening 28a. FIG. 14 shows a timing chart according to the present embodiment, and FIGS. 15 and 16 show timing charts according to comparative examples. Hereinafter, a description will be given along a time series.

[Normal game management status]
The main control CPU 72 sets the value of the normal game management status (in the brackets) according to the game progress statuses (1) to (6) corresponding to the normal symbol as follows.
(1) Normal symbol variation waiting state: “00H”
(2) Normal symbol fluctuation display state: “01H”
(3) Normal symbol stop display state: “02H”
(4) Variable start winning device (ordinary electric accessory) open state: “03H”
(5) Variable start winning device (ordinary electric accessory) closed after opening: “04H”
(6) Variable start winning device (ordinary electric accessory) during operation end time: “05H”

[Initial]
In FIG. 14, (A): For example, it is assumed that a normal symbol is stopped and displayed in a winning manner at a certain time (before time t1). At this time, the value of the normal game management status is “02H”.

[Time t1]
In FIG. 14, (B): After that, the normal symbol stop display time elapses, and the variable start winning device 28 (ordinary electric accessory) enters the operating state (conditional device operation).

[Time t2]
In FIG. 14, (A): After the elapse of the release waiting time τ1 from time t1, the value of the normal game management status becomes “03H”.
In FIG. 14, (C): As a result, the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 88 is turned ON, and the variable start winning device 28 changes from the closed state (non-operating state) to the open state (operating state) (variable winning means). In the illustrated example, the variable start winning device 28 is shifted to the open state only once. However, the variable start winning device 28 may be shifted to the open state a plurality of times.

[From time t2 to time t3]
In FIG. 14, (E): A plurality of (three in this example) game balls enter the right start winning opening 28a while the variable start winning apparatus 28 is opened. The winning detection signal is input to the main control CPU 72 (waveforms with parentheses (1), (2) and (3) in the figure). Also, here, the ball biting occurs while the variable start winning device 28 is opened, and the ball biting is canceled after the opening time has elapsed, and a plurality of (three in this example) game balls are placed in the right start winning port. It is assumed that the ball enters 28a.

  In FIG. 14, (C) and (A): the opening time (for example, 5.0 seconds) has elapsed, and the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 88 is turned OFF. As a result, the variable start winning device 28 changes from the open state (operating state) to the closed state (non-operating state). The value of the normal game management status is “04H”.

[Time t3]
In FIG. 14, (A), (B): When the closing time τ2 elapses after the variable start winning device 28 is closed, the value of the normal game management status becomes “05H”, and the variable start winning device 28 (normal electric accessory) Becomes inactive (conditional device inactive).
In FIG. 14, (D-1): The main control CPU 72 starts a winning effective timer after the operation ends from this time (time t3) (first effective time setting means). Here, the winning effective timer after the operation ends is a timer that counts the first effective time, and the “first effective time” is a time that does not allow the start of the fluctuation of the next normal symbol and is variable. This is the time for handling the detection of a ball entered by the variable start winning device 28 as effective even after the start winning device 28 (ordinary electric accessory) has returned to the closed state. For this reason, in the “first effective time”, the next variation of the normal symbol is not allowed, but the winning by the variable start winning device 28 is effective.

[From time t3 to time t4]
In FIG. 14, (E): When the winning start timer 28a enters the ball during the countdown of the winning effective timer after completion of operation (within the first effective time TS1) ((4) is attached in parentheses in the figure) Waveform), this entry is treated as an effective entry. In this case, the illegal winning counter is not added, and the winning detection signal (the waveform with (4) in parentheses in the figure) is not subject to rewriting in the illegal winning mask process.
In FIG. 14, (A): Further, when the countdown of the winning valid timer after the operation ends, the operation end time has elapsed, and the value of the normal game management status returns to “00H”. Thereby, if there is an operation memory for the normal symbol, the next change of the normal symbol is started using the memory.

[Time t4]
In FIG. 14, (D-1): When the first valid time TS1 (for example, about 0.4 seconds) elapses from the time t3, the winning valid timer becomes 0 after the operation ends, and the countdown ends (OFF).
In FIG. 14 (D-2): The main control CPU 72 starts the illegal prize invalid timer from the time (time t4) when the countdown of the prize valid timer is finished after the operation is finished (second valid time setting means). Here, the illegal prize invalid timer is a timer that counts the second valid time, and the “second valid time” is a time that allows the start of the variation of the next normal symbol, and is a variable start prize. This is the time during which the detection of a ball entered by the variable start winning device 28 is treated as effective even after the device 28 (ordinary electric accessory) has returned to the closed state. For this reason, in the “second effective time”, the next variation of the normal symbol is allowed, and the ball entering by the variable start winning device 28 is also effective. Further, the illegal prize invalid timer plays a role of invalidating an illegal entry (effective entry) with respect to an entry that is normally treated as an illegal entry.

[From time t4 to time t5]
(D-2) in FIG. 14: When a ball enters the right start winning opening 28a during the countdown of the illegal prize invalid timer (within the second valid time TS2) ((5) (6) in parentheses in the figure) This wave is treated as an effective ball. Further, in this case, the illegal winning counter is not added, and the winning detection signal (the waveform with (5) and (6) in parentheses in the figure) is not subject to rewriting in the illegal winning mask process.
In FIG. 14, (A): When the countdown of the illegal prize invalid timer is completed, the value of the normal game management status is not changed and “00H” is maintained.

[Time t5]
In FIG. 14, (D-2): When the second valid time TS2 (for example, about 3.0 seconds) elapses from time t4, the illegal prize invalid timer becomes 0 and the countdown ends (OFF). In the present embodiment, the second effective time TS2 is set to “3.0 seconds” with reference to the time when the ball biting is naturally eliminated, but the value of the second effective time TS2 is limited to this. However, it may be a value less than “3.0 seconds” or a value greater than “3.0 seconds”. These values can be changed as appropriate according to the game specifications.

[After time t5]
In FIG. 14, (E): When a ball enters the right start winning opening 28a after time t5, an illegal winning counter is added each time, and individual winning detection signals (indicated by two-dot chain lines) are illegal winnings. It is rewritten by mask processing.

  In FIG. 14, (F): After time t5, if the illegal prize counter reaches a prescribed value (for example, 5) before the value of the normal game management status next becomes “03H”, an illegal prize error command is generated. (Illegal winning information generation means). As a result, the production control device 124 executes processing for outputting an error occurrence sound or causing a specific frame lamp to emit light.

[Error reset]
In this embodiment, for example, the illegal prize error is canceled when a certain time (for example, 60 seconds) elapses after the occurrence of the illegal prize error or when the power is turned on again. In the example shown in the figure, the illegal prize error is canceled (illegal prize error command OFF) by re-input after power-off. However, when a new illegal winning error occurs after the error is released, the error is released after a lapse of a certain time from that point.

[Winning time]
14G: In this embodiment, in principle, after the variable start winning device 28 returns from the open state to the closed state (after time t3), the variable start winning device 28 changes to the open state again. Is set to an invalid time for handling the detection of the ball entered by the variable start winning device 28 as invalid, with respect to the time until the next time (time until the next time t2). However, in this embodiment, since the first valid time (TS1) and the second valid time (TS2) are set as exceptions of the invalid time, the variable start winning device 28 is changed from the closed state to the open state. After the change (from time t2), the time from the first effective time until the second effective time elapses (until time t5) becomes the consecutive winning effective time. Then, since the player is paid out based on the incoming ball that is generated while the winning time is valid, the player's profit can be increased accordingly.

  On the other hand, the gaming machine of the first comparative example is of a type that has only a winning valid timer after the end of operation and no illegal winning invalid timer. Explaining the gaming machine of the first comparative example, as shown in FIG. 15 (D), at the time t3, the winning valid timer starts after the operation is completed. When a valid time TS3 (for example, about 0.4 seconds) elapses from time t3, the winning valid timer is set to 0 after the operation is finished, and the countdown is finished (OFF) at time t4.

  For this reason, when a ball enters the right start winning port 28a during the countdown of the winning valid timer after the operation ends (within the valid time TS3) (the waveform indicated by (4) in parentheses in the figure), this pitching Is treated as a valid pitch, but when the pitch is entered to the right start winning slot 28a after the countdown of the prize valid timer is finished after the operation is finished ((5) (6) are attached in parentheses in the figure) Waveform), this entry is not treated as a valid entry. In addition, not only is it not handled as a valid entry, but also the entry after the expiration of the valid time TS3, there is a problem that it is handled as an illegal prize count.

  In order to solve this problem, a method of ensuring a long effective time from the beginning can be considered. The gaming machine of the second comparative example is of a type in which a winning validity timer is set after a long operation to ensure a long valid time.

  Explaining the gaming machine of the second comparative example, as shown in FIG. 16 (D), at the time t3, the winning valid timer starts after the operation is completed. When the valid time TS4 (about 3.4 seconds) elapses from the time t3, the winning valid timer becomes 0 after the operation ends, and the countdown ends (OFF) at the time t4.

  For this reason, when a winning entry to the right start winning opening 28a occurs during the countdown of the winning valid timer after the operation ends (within the valid time TS4) ((4), (5) and (6) are attached in parentheses in the figure) Waveform), this entry is treated as an effective entry. However, since the set time of the winning valid timer is increased after the operation ends, the value of the normal game management status does not return to “00H” until the time t4, and the set time of the winning enabled timer after the operation ends. The longer is set, the later the start of the next variation of the normal symbol will be delayed.

  On the other hand, in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 14, the first valid time (TS1) is set by the winning valid timer after the operation is finished, and then the second valid time (TS2) is further set by the illegal winning invalid timer. It is set. Similar to the first effective time, the second effective time has a role of enabling the detection of a ball entered by the variable start winning device 28 even after the variable start winning device 28 returns to the closed state. . However, unlike the first effective time, the second effective time has a role of allowing the next variation of the normal symbol.

  For this reason, by setting the second effective time, among the roles of the first effective time, even if the variable start winning device 28 is returned to the closed state, the variable start winning device 28 can detect the entering of the ball. The effective role will be inherited, but the role of not allowing the next variation of the normal symbol will not be inherited.

  Therefore, even if the ball is temporarily stopped due to the occurrence of the ball bite and the ball enters after the first effective time elapses, it does not enter until the second effective time elapses. The sphere can be effective. In addition, the next variation of the normal symbol is not allowed until the second effective time elapses (until time t5), but can be allowed when the first effective time elapses (time t4). Even if 2 valid times are set, the start of the next variation is not delayed, and a decrease in gaming efficiency can be suppressed.

[Example of a big prize opening]
Next, FIGS. 17 to 19 are timing charts showing temporal changes in various situations at the special winning opening 30b. FIG. 17 shows a timing chart according to the present embodiment, and FIGS. 18 and 19 show timing charts according to comparative examples. Hereinafter, a description will be given along a time series.

[Special Game Management Status]
The main control CPU 72 sets the value of the special game management status (in the brackets) according to the game progress statuses (1) to (7) corresponding to the special symbol as follows.
(1) Special symbol change waiting state: “00H”
(2) Special symbol fluctuation display state: “01H”
(3) Special symbol stop display state: “02H”
(4) Variable winning device (special electric accessory) waiting to be opened: “03H”
(5) Variable winning device (special electric accessory) open state: “04H”
(6) Variable winning device (special electric accessory) after opening: “05H”
(7) Variable winning device (special electric accessory) during operation end state: “06H”

[Initial]
FIG. 17 (A): For example, at a certain point in time (before time t10), the special symbol is stopped and displayed in a big hit state, so that the progress of the game is waiting for the variable winning device 30 to be released. Assume a case. In this case, the value of the special game management status is “03H”.

[Time t10]
In FIG. 17, (B): Thereafter, the variable winning device 30 (special electric accessory) is in the operating state (conditional device operation).

[Time t20]
In FIG. 17, (A): After the elapse of the waiting time τ10 from the time t10, the value of the special game management status becomes “04H”.
In FIG. 17, (C): Thereby, the big winning opening solenoid 90 is turned ON, and the variable winning device 30 is changed from the closed state (non-operating state) to the open state (operating state) (variable winning means). In the present embodiment, since the opening is performed twice during one big hit, the first opening (the first round) is started here.

[From time t20 to time t30]
(C) in FIG. 17: After the first opening, the second (second round) opening is started with the interval time τi in between. In addition, after each round is completed, a closing time unique to each round may be set.
In FIG. 17, (E): During the opening of the variable winning device 30 twice, in the first open state (1R), a game ball enters the big winning opening 30b, and a winning detection signal is sent from the count switch 84 to the main control CPU 72. Has been entered. However, in the second open state (2R), the ball biting occurs while the variable prize device 30 is open, and one open time elapses without detecting one pitch within the open time. Thus, the variable winning device 30 is closed. Assume that after the elapse of the opening time, the ball biting is canceled and a plurality (two in this example) of game balls enter the big winning opening 30b.

  In FIG. 17, (C) and (A): The opening operation is completed twice in total, and the special winning opening solenoid 90 is turned off. Thereby, the variable prize-winning apparatus 30 changes from an open state (operation state) to a closed state (non-operation state). Further, the value of the special game management status is “05H”.

[Time t30]
In FIG. 17, (A), (B): When the closing time τ20 elapses after the variable winning device 30 is closed, the value of the special game management status becomes “06H”. In addition, the variable winning device 30 (special electric accessory) becomes inactive (condition device inactive).
(D-1) in FIG. 17: Then, the main control CPU 72 starts a winning valid timer after the operation is finished from this time (time t30) (first valid time setting means). Here, the winning valid timer after the end of operation is a timer that counts the first valid time, and the “first valid time” is a time that does not allow the start of the next special symbol fluctuation and is variable. This is the time during which the winning detection by the variable winning device 30 is valid even after the winning device 30 (special electric accessory) has returned to the closed state. For this reason, in the “first effective time”, the next variation of the special symbol is not allowed, but the winning by the variable winning device 30 is effective.

[From time t30 to time t40]
(E) in FIG. 17: When a winning entry to the big winning opening 30b occurs during the countdown of the winning effective timer after the operation ends (within the first effective time TU1) (a waveform with (2) in parentheses in the drawing) ), This entry is treated as an effective entry. In this case, the illegal winning counter is not added, and the winning detection signal (the waveform with (2) in parentheses in the figure) is not subject to rewriting in the illegal winning mask process.
In FIG. 17A, when the countdown of the winning valid timer after the operation ends, the operation end time has elapsed, and the value of the special game management status returns to “00H”. As a result, the special symbol is in a state of waiting for change, and the next special symbol can be changed.

[Time t40]
In FIG. 17 (D-1): When the first valid time TU1 (for example, about 0.4 seconds) elapses from time t30, the winning valid timer is set to 0 after the operation is finished, and the countdown is finished (OFF).
In FIG. 17 (D-2): The main control CPU 72 starts the illegal prize invalid timer from the time (time t40) when the countdown of the prize valid timer is completed after the operation is finished (second valid time setting means). Here, the illegal prize invalid timer is a timer that counts the second valid time, and the “second valid time” is a time that allows the start of the variation of the next special symbol, and is a variable prize device. 30 is a time during which the detection of a ball entered by the variable winning device 30 is valid even after 30 (special electric accessory) has returned to the closed state. For this reason, in the “second effective time”, the next variation of the special symbol is allowed, and the winning by the variable winning device 30 is also effective.

[From time t40 to time t50]
(D-2) in FIG. 17: A waveform with (3) in parentheses in the figure when a ball enters the big prize opening 30b during the countdown of the illegal prize invalid timer (within the second valid time TU2). ), This entry is treated as an effective entry. In this case, the illegal winning counter is not added, and the winning detection signal (the waveform with (3) in parentheses in the figure) is not subject to rewriting in the illegal winning mask process.
In FIG. 17, (A): When the countdown of the illegal prize invalid timer is completed, the value of the special game management status is not changed and “00H” is maintained.

[Time t50]
In FIG. 17 (D-2): When the second valid time TU2 (for example, about 3.0 seconds) elapses from time t40, the illegal winning invalid timer becomes 0 and the countdown ends (OFF). In the present embodiment, the second effective time TU2 is set to “3.0 seconds” with reference to the time when the ball biting is naturally eliminated. However, the value of the second effective time TU2 is limited to this. However, the value may be less than “3.0 seconds” or greater than “3.0 seconds”. These values can be changed as appropriate according to the game specifications.

[After time t50]
In FIG. 17, (E): When a winning entry to the big winning opening 30b occurs after time t50, an illegal winning counter is added each time, and each winning detection signal (indicated by a two-dot chain line) is an illegal winning mask. It will be rewritten by processing.

  In FIG. 17, (F): After time t50, if the illegal prize counter reaches a prescribed value (for example, 5) before the value of the special game management status reaches “04H”, an illegal prize error command is generated. (Illegal prize information generating means). As a result, the production control device 124 executes processing for outputting an error occurrence sound or causing a specific frame lamp to emit light.

[Error reset]
Similarly, for example, when a certain time (for example, 60 seconds) elapses after the occurrence of an illegal prize error, or when the power is turned on again, the illegal prize error is canceled (illegal prize error command OFF). In the same manner as described above, when a new illegal winning error occurs after canceling the error, the error is canceled after a lapse of a certain time from that point.

[Winning time]
FIG. 17G: In this embodiment, in principle, after the variable winning device 30 returns from the open state to the closed state (after time t30), until the variable winning device 30 changes to the open state again. For the time (the time until the next time t20 arrives), an invalid time is set in which the detection of a ball entered by the variable winning device 30 is treated as invalid. However, in this embodiment, since the first valid time (TU1) and the second valid time (TU2) are set as exceptions of the invalid time, the variable winning device 30 changes from the closed state to the open state. Then (from time t20), the time from the first valid time until the second valid time elapses (until time t50) is the winning valid time. Then, the player is paid out based on the incoming ball that is generated while the winning time is valid.

  On the other hand, the gaming machine of the third comparative example is of a type that has only a winning valid timer after the end of operation and no illegal winning invalid timer. Explaining the gaming machine of the third comparative example, as shown in FIG. 18 (D), at the time t30, the winning valid timer starts after the operation is completed. When a valid time TU3 (for example, about 0.4 seconds) elapses from time t30, the winning valid timer becomes 0 after the operation ends, and the countdown ends (OFF) at time t40.

  For this reason, when a winning entry to the big winning opening 30b occurs during the countdown of the winning valid timer after the operation is finished (within the valid time TU3) (the waveform with (2) in parentheses in the figure) Although it is handled as a valid entry, if a prize entry to the big prize opening 30b occurs after the completion of the countdown of the prize valid timer after the operation is finished (a waveform with (3) in parentheses in the figure), The ball is not treated as a valid entry. In addition, not only is it not treated as a valid entry, but also the entry after the expiration of the valid time TU3, the problem is that it is handled as an illegal prize count.

  In order to solve this problem, a method of ensuring a long effective time from the beginning can be considered. The gaming machine of the fourth comparative example is of a type in which a winning valid timer is set after a long operation to ensure a long valid time.

  Explaining the gaming machine of the fourth comparative example, as shown in FIG. 19 (D), the prize winning valid timer starts after the operation ends at time t30. When the valid time TU4 (about 3.4 seconds) elapses from time t30, the winning valid timer is set to 0 after the operation is finished, and the countdown is finished (OFF) at time t40.

  For this reason, when a winning entry to the big winning opening 30b occurs during the countdown of the winning effective timer after the operation is finished (within the effective time TU4) (the waveform indicated by (2) and (3) in parentheses in the figure) The entry will be treated as an effective entry. However, since the set time of the winning valid timer is increased after the operation ends, the value of the special game management status does not return to “00H” until the time t40, and the set time of the winning enabled timer after the operation ends. The longer is set, the later the start of the next variation of the special symbol.

  On the other hand, in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 17, the first valid time (TU1) is set by the winning valid timer after the operation is finished, and then the second valid time (TU2) is further set by the illegal winning invalid timer. It is set. Similar to the first effective time, the second effective time has a role of enabling detection of the winning by the variable winning device 30 even after the variable winning device 30 returns to the closed state. However, unlike the first effective time, the second effective time has a role of allowing the next variation of the special symbol.

  For this reason, by setting the second effective time, among the roles of the first effective time, even if the variable winning device 30 is returned to the closed state, the detection of the winning by the variable winning device 30 is made effective. The role to do will be taken over, but the role of not allowing the next variation of special symbols will not be taken over.

  Therefore, even if the ball is temporarily stopped due to the occurrence of the ball bite and the ball enters after the first effective time elapses, it does not enter until the second effective time elapses. The sphere can be effective. In addition, the next variation of the special symbol is not allowed until the second effective time elapses (until time t50), but can be allowed when the first effective time elapses (time t40). Even if 2 valid times are set, the start of the next variation is not delayed, and a decrease in gaming efficiency can be suppressed.

  Further, according to the present embodiment, the progress of the game is achieved by taking measures against the ball winning with respect to the two winning devices such as the variable start winning device 28 (ordinary electric accessory) and the variable winning device 30 (special electric accessory). Can take all possible measures. In this regard, the biting of the ball is generated depending on some accidental factors such as the disposition state of the obstacle nail and the flowing down state of the game ball. And by taking all possible measures against such an accidental element, the contents of the game can be progressed as intended in advance without delay.

  Furthermore, in this embodiment, the so-called electric tulip type variable start winning device 28 and variable winning device 30 are employed. However, the electric tulip type winning device has little space for play inside, and the ball chewing is compared. It can be said that it is a winning device that is easy to generate. Therefore, even when an electric tulip-type winning device that has a relatively high possibility of ball biting is employed, by taking the above-mentioned ball biting measures, the game can proceed more smoothly. .

[Unauthorized winning mask processing]
FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of the illegal prize mask process executed in the security management process. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along the example of a procedure.

  Step S250: First, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not an illegal winning is detected for the starting winning opening (right starting winning opening 28a). For example, in the illegal prize detection process (step S220 in FIG. 11) performed before this illegal prize mask process, when the main control CPU 72 adds an illegal prize counter for the right start prize opening 28a, the fact that an illegal prize has been detected. Can be confirmed (Yes). In this case, the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S252.

  Step S252: Next, the main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the normal game management status is “being operated” or later. That is, if the value of the normal game management status is smaller than “03H” at the present time (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S254.

  Step S254: Subsequently, the main control CPU 72 confirms the value of the illegal winning invalid timer for the variable start winning device 28. As a result, if the value of the timer is 0 or less (Yes), the main control CPU 72 executes the next step S256.

  Step S256: In this case, the main control CPU 72 clears the winning detection signal for the right start winning opening 28a, that is, rewrites the ON bit to OFF (winning detection information erasing means). As a result, in the subsequent control process, it can be handled that the winning to the right start winning opening 28a has not occurred. Therefore, a special symbol change due to an illegal winning, an internal lottery is performed, and a prize ball is paid out. Can be surely prevented.

  After executing the above procedure, the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S258. In addition, when the illegal winning is not detected for the right start winning opening 28a (step S250: No), the normal game management status is “being operated” (“03H” or more) (step S252: Yes). Alternatively, if the illegal prize invalid timer is greater than 0 (step S254: No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S258 without executing step S256.

  Step S258: Subsequently, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not an illegal winning is detected for the big winning opening 30b. Similarly, when the main control CPU 72 adds an illegal prize counter for the big prize opening 30b in the illegal prize detection process (step S220 in FIG. 11) performed before the illegal prize mask process, an illegal prize is detected. (Yes). In this case, the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S260.

  Step S260: Also, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the special game management status is after “active”. That is, if the value of the special game management status is smaller than “04H” at the present time (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S262.

  Step S262: Subsequently, the main control CPU 72 confirms the value of the illegal winning invalid timer for the variable winning device 30. As a result, if the value of the timer is 0 or less (Yes), the main control CPU 72 executes the next step S264.

  Step S264: In this case, the main control CPU 72 clears the winning detection signal for the big winning opening 30b, that is, rewrites the ON bit to OFF (winning detection information erasing means). As a result, in the subsequent control process, it can be handled that the winning to the big winning opening 30b has not occurred, so that it is possible to reliably prevent the payout of the winning ball due to the illegal winning.

When the above procedure is executed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the security management process. Further, when an illegal winning is not detected for the special winning opening 30b (step S258: No), or when the special game management status is “being activated” (“04H” or more) (step S260: Yes), Alternatively, when the illegal prize invalid timer is greater than 0 (step S262: No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the security management process without executing step S264.
When the main control CPU 72 returns to the interrupt management process (FIG. 10) from the end address of the security management process, the main control CPU 72 executes the next switch input event process.

[Switch input event processing]
FIG. 21 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the switch input event process. Each procedure will be described below.

  Step S10: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not a winning detection signal is input from the middle start winning opening switch 80. When the input of the winning detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S11 and executes a special symbol random number acquisition process. On the other hand, when no winning detection signal is input (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S12. Since the illegal winning mask process (FIG. 20) has already been executed at this stage, the input of the winning detection signal is not confirmed for the illegal winning.

  Step S11: In the special symbol random number acquisition process, the main control CPU 72 acquires the jackpot determination random number value, and also acquires the jackpot symbol random number value and the fluctuation random number value. The obtained various random numbers are stored in a random number storage area of the RAM 76, for example.

  Step S12: Also, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not a winning detection signal is input from the right start winning opening switch 82. If the input of the winning detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S13 and executes a special symbol random number storage process. The contents of the special symbol random number storage process will be described later using another flowchart.

  In particular, when there is no input of a winning detection signal (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S14. Similarly, since the illegal winning mask process (FIG. 20) has already been executed at this stage, the input of the winning detection signal is not confirmed for the illegal winning.

  Step S14: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not a winning detection signal is input from the count switch 84 corresponding to the big winning opening 30b. When the input of this winning detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S15 and executes a large winning mouth count process. In the big winning opening counting process, the main control CPU 72 counts the number of winning balls to the variable winning device 30 every round during the big hit game. On the other hand, if there is no input of a winning detection signal (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S16.

  Step S16: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not a passage detection signal is input from the gate switch 78 corresponding to the normal symbol. When the input of the passage detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S17 and executes the normal symbol memory update process. On the other hand, if no winning detection signal is input (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the interrupt management process (FIG. 10).

Step S17: In the normal symbol memory update process, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether the normal symbol operating memory number is not the maximum value. If the normal symbol operating memory number is less than the maximum value, the normal symbol operating memory number is added. Get the numerical value and store it.
When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the interrupt management process (FIG. 10) and executes the special game management process (step S206) and the subsequent steps.

[Special symbol memory processing]
FIG. 22 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the special symbol storing process. Hereinafter, the special symbol storage process will be described along with a procedure example.

  Step S30: First, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not there is an operation memory for the special symbol. In this embodiment, since two or more working memories are not provided in the special symbol, here, for example, if there is a big hit decision random number (one piece) already transferred to the random number storage area of the RAM 76, the main control CPU 72 It is determined that there is working memory for the symbol (Yes). If there is already a working memory (Yes), the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event process (FIG. 21). On the other hand, when there is no operation memory (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S32. In addition, it is good also as using a special symbol action | operation memory | storage number counter (upper number 1 piece) here on the structure of a control program. In this case, the main control CPU 72 refers to the value of the special symbol working memory number counter, and determines that there is working memory when the working memory number is 1 (Yes). If the number of operating memories is not 1 (= 0), the main control CPU 72 determines that there is no operating memory (No).

  Step S32: When it is determined that there is no working memory in the previous step S30 (step S30: No), the main control CPU 72 acquires a big hit determination random number value from the random number generator 75 through the sampling circuit 77 described above. The random value is acquired by specifying the pin address of the random number generator 75. When the main control CPU 72 has a data bus width of 8 bits, the address designation is performed twice for each upper byte and lower byte. When the main control CPU 72 reads the jackpot determined random number value from the designated address, it saves it as a jackpot determined random number at the address of the transfer destination (random number storage area).

  Step S33: Next, the main control CPU 72 acquires a big hit symbol random number value from the big hit symbol random number counter area of the RAM 76. The acquisition of the random number value is also performed by designating the address of the jackpot symbol random number counter area. When the main control CPU 72 reads the jackpot symbol random number value from the designated address, it saves it as a jackpot symbol random number at the transfer destination address.

  Step S34: Further, the main control CPU 72 acquires, for example, a variation pattern determination random number from the variation random number counter area of the RAM 76 as a random value related to the variation condition of the special symbol. Similarly, the acquisition of the random number value is performed by designating the address of the random number counter area for variation. When the main control CPU 72 acquires the variation pattern determination random number from the designated address, the main control CPU 72 saves it in the transfer destination address.

  Step S36: The main control CPU 72 transfers the saved jackpot determined random number, jackpot symbol random number, and variation pattern determined random number to the random number storage area corresponding to the special symbol (at this time, the free state), and stores these random numbers as a set. .

  Step S38: The main control CPU 72 executes a production command output setting process for the special symbol. This process is for performing setting for transmitting a start opening winning tone control command to the effect control device 124, for example.

  When the above procedure is finished or the special symbol operation memory has already been stored (step S30: Yes), the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event process (FIG. 21).

[Special design game processing]
Next, the details of the special symbol game process executed in the interrupt management process (FIG. 10) will be described. FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing a configuration example of the special symbol game process. The special symbol game process includes an execution selection process (step S1000), a special symbol change pre-process (step S2000), a special symbol change process (step S3000), a special symbol stop display process (step S4000), and a variable winning device management process. This is a configuration including a subroutine (program module) group of (Step S5000). First, the basic flow of the special symbol game process will be described along each process.

  Step S1000: In the execution selection process, the main control CPU 72 selects the jump destination of the process to be executed next (any one of steps S2000 to S5000) from the “jump table”. For example, the main control CPU 72 sets the program address of the process to be executed next as the jump destination address, and sets the end of the special symbol game process as the return destination address in the stack pointer.

  Which process is selected as the next jump destination differs depending on the progress of the process performed so far (special game management status). For example, if the special symbol has not yet started changing display (special game management status: 00H), the main control CPU 72 selects the special symbol change pre-processing (step S2000) as the next jump destination. On the other hand, if the special symbol change pre-processing has already been completed (special game management status: 01H), the main control CPU 72 selects the special symbol changing process (step S3000) as the next jump destination, and the special symbol changing process. Is completed (special game management status: 02H), the special symbol stop display in-progress process (step S4000) is selected as the next jump destination. In this embodiment, the jump destination address is specified by the “jump table” and the process is selected. However, apart from such a selection method, a “process flag”, a “process selection flag”, or the like is used. There is also a known programming example in which the CPU selects a process to be executed next. In such a programming example, the CPU CALLs each process in a single way, and at the top step, the conditional branch (continuation / return) is performed with reference to the flag one by one. There is no need for the CPU 72 to call each process one by one.

  Step S2000: In the special symbol variation pre-processing, the main control CPU 72 performs an operation to prepare conditions for starting the variation display of the special symbol. Specifically, the big hit determination (lottery execution means, internal lottery execution means) and the variation pattern are determined here, and in the case of a big hit, the winning type is also determined. In addition, according to the determination of the winning type, the main control CPU 72 sets a “time reduction state” count-off counter for each internal state (“low probability state” or “high probability state”) or sets an initial value of the probability variation limiter count. Or set. The specific processing content will be described later using another flowchart.

  Step S3000: In the special symbol variation processing, the main control CPU 72 controls the special symbol display device 34 while counting the variation timer. Specifically, an ON or OFF drive signal (1 byte data) is output for each segment and dot (0th to 7th) of the 7-segment LED. The pattern of the drive signal changes with the passage of time, whereby a special symbol is displayed in a variable manner.

  Step S4000: In the special symbol stop display process, the main control CPU 72 controls the drive of the special symbol display device 34. Similarly, an ON or OFF drive signal is output for each segment and dot of the 7-segment LED. However, the pattern of the drive signal is constant, whereby a special symbol is stopped and displayed. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sets the “limiter count” for the probability variation function or performs a subtraction process. The specific processing content will be described later using another flowchart.

  Step S5000: The variable winning device management process is selected when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the winning mode (a mode other than non-winning) in the previous special symbol stop display process. For example, when a special symbol is stopped and displayed in a big win mode, an opportunity to shift to a big win game state (a special game state advantageous to the player) occurs (special game execution means). During the big hit game, the jump destination is set in the variable winning device management process in the previous execution selection process (step S1000), and the special symbol variation display is not performed. In the variable winning device management process, the large winning opening solenoid 90 is excited for a certain period of time (for example, up to 6.0 seconds or until one winning is counted) for a predetermined number of continuous operations (for example, twice). Thus, the variable winning device 30 is opened and closed with a predetermined pattern. In the meantime, by allowing the variable winning device 30 to win a game ball, the player is given an opportunity to win a prize ball (for example, six prize ball payouts per one prize) (privilege grant means) ). Note that the opening / closing operation of the variable winning device 30 at the time of a big hit is referred to as “round”, and if the number of continuous operations is two, these may be collectively referred to as “2 rounds”. However, in this embodiment, since the opening time per time is relatively short (6.0 seconds) and the number of counts in one round is the minimum (for example, one), the general 15 rounds Compared with big hits (for example, 1 round 29 seconds open, number of counts 9), the number of prize balls that can be obtained with one big hit (2 rounds) is smaller. The specific processing content will be described later using another flowchart.

  In any case, when the main control CPU 72 sets the large winning opening opening pattern (number of rounds, number of opening operations per round, opening time, etc.) in the variable winning device management process, the variable winning device 30 for one round Each time the release operation is completed, the value of the round number counter is incremented by one. The value of the round number counter is stored in the count area of the RAM 76 with an initial value of 0, for example. When the value of the round counter reaches the set number of continuous operations (in this example, 2 times), the main control CPU 72 ends the big hit game (main role) only for that round.

  When the big hit game (opening operation of the variable winning device 30) is finished, the main control CPU 72 determines the state (high probability state) after the big hit game based on the game state flag (probability changing function operating flag or time shortening function operating flag). , Change the time reduction state). In the “high probability state”, the probability variation function operates and the winning probability in the internal lottery becomes higher than usual.

  Also, in the “time reduction state”, the time reduction function is activated, and the probability of winning a winning by the normal symbol operation lottery is changed from “low probability” to “high probability” (for example, “low probability” is 1/128 → “ “High probability” is about 127/128), and the normal symbol variation time is shortened and set (for example, fixed at about 0.6 seconds). Note that the “high probability state” and the “time reduction state” may be transferred to only one of them in terms of control, or may be transferred in accordance with both of them.

  The above is the contents of various control processes performed by the main controller 70 (main control CPU 72). When the main control CPU 72 executes these processes, the game by the pachinko machine 1 is specifically progressed, and internal lottery, symbol variation display and stop display, a big hit operation are performed, and a prize ball payout operation is performed. Done.

[Special symbol change pre-treatment]
FIG. 24 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the special symbol variation pre-processing. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along each procedure.

  Step S2100: First, the main control CPU 72 checks whether or not there is a special symbol operation memory in the random number storage area of the RAM 76. Alternatively, confirmation may be performed with reference to the value of the working memory number counter as described above. Note that the operation memory of the special symbol is generated when a winning is made to the middle start winning port 26 or the variable start winning device 28 (right start winning port 28a) in the switch input event process as described above. At this time, when it is confirmed that there is no working memory of the special symbol that should start changing (No), the main control CPU 72 executes the demonstration setting process of step S2500. On the other hand, when it is confirmed that there is a special symbol working memory (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S2300.

  Step S2500: In this process, the main control CPU 72 generates a demonstration effect command. The demonstration effect command is output to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process (step S214 in FIG. 10). When the demo setting process is executed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the normal symbol game process.

  Step S2300: The main control CPU 72 executes a big hit determination process (internal lottery). In this process, first, the main control CPU 72 reads a lottery random number (a jackpot determined random number, a jackpot symbol random number) stored in a random number storage area of the RAM 76. The read random number is stored, for example, in another temporary storage area, and the working memory is erased (consumed) from the random number storage area. Next, the main control CPU 72 sets a range of the big hit value and determines whether or not the read random number value is included in this range (internal lottery execution means). The range of the jackpot value set at this time is different between the low probability state and the high probability state (when the probability variation function is activated). In the high probability state, the range of the jackpot value is expanded to about 10 times that of the normal probability state. (For example, about 1/10 in the low probability state and about 1/1 in the high probability state). If the random value read at this time is included in the range of the big hit value, the main control CPU 72 sets the big hit flag (01H), and then proceeds to step S2400.

  Step S2400: The main control CPU 72 determines whether or not a value (01H) is set for the big hit flag in the previous big hit determination process. If the value (01H) is not set in the jackpot flag (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S2404.

  Step S2404: The main control CPU 72 executes an off-time stop symbol determination process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sets stop symbol number data at the time of disconnection by the special symbol display device 34. Further, the main control CPU 72 generates a stop symbol command and a lottery result command (at the time of loss) to be transmitted to the effect control device 124. These commands are transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process (step S214 in FIG. 10).

  In this embodiment, since the 7-segment LED is used for the special symbol display device 34, for example, the display mode of the stop symbol at the time of disconnection is limited to only one segment (center bar “-”) lighting display. The stop symbol number data can be fixed to one value (for example, 64H). In this case, the storage capacity used in the program can be reduced, the processing load on the main control CPU 72 can be reduced, and the processing speed can be improved.

  Step S2406: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a deviation variation pattern determination process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the fluctuation pattern number at the time of deviation for the special symbol. The variation pattern number is used to distinguish the variation display type (pattern) of the special symbol or to correspond to the variation time required for the variation display. Since the fluctuation time at the time of loss differs depending on each of the above states (non-time shortening state, time shortening state), in this process, the main control CPU 72 loads the gaming state flag and the current state is “time shortening state. It is confirmed whether or not. In the “time shortening state”, the fluctuation time at the time of disconnection can be set to a fluctuation time that is shortened. In the “non-time shortened state”, the fluctuation time at the time of loss is determined based on, for example, a fluctuation pattern determination random number. Then, the main control CPU 72 sets the value of the determined variation time (at the time of disconnection) in the variation timer, and sets the value of the stop display time at the time of disconnection in the stop symbol display timer (special symbol variation time determination means).

  In the present embodiment, when a special symbol lottery results in a non-winning result, for example, a “reach effect” is generated and a “reach effect” is generated without causing a “reach effect”. I am going to do that. And in the “special design deviation variation pattern selection table”, variation patterns corresponding to a plurality of types of effects such as “non-reach effect” and “reach effect” are defined in advance. One of the variation patterns is selected from among them. The reach production includes various reach production such as normal reach production, battle reach production, and the like.

[Special pattern variation pattern selection table (ordinary medium, low probability short and medium)]
FIG. 25 is a diagram illustrating an example of a special pattern shift pattern selection table used during normal or low probability time reduction.
This selection table is used when the special symbol lottery is missed (if it is a non-winning state) during normal (low probability state and non-time shortened state) or low probability time short (low probability state and time reduced state). It is a table. In addition, this selection table has a structure in which, for example, “comparison value” and “variation pattern number” are stored as a set of 1 byte each in order from the head address. The “comparison value” includes, for example, eight different values “101”, “201”, “211”, “221”, “231”, “241”, “251”, “255 (FFH)”. “1” to “8” of “variation pattern number” are assigned to each “comparison value”.

  The variation pattern numbers “1” and “2” correspond to variation patterns that are out of reach without performing a reach effect, and the variation pattern numbers “3” to “5” are variation patterns that are out of normal reach. The variation pattern numbers “6” to “8” correspond to the variation patterns that are lost after battle reach.

  The main control CPU 72 sequentially compares the obtained variation pattern determination random value with the “comparison value” in the variation pattern selection table, and if the random value is equal to or less than the comparison value, the main control CPU 72 corresponds to the comparison value. Select the fluctuation pattern number. For example, when the fluctuation pattern determination random number value at that time is “190”, since the random value exceeds the comparison value when compared with the first comparison value “101”, the main control CPU 72 determines the next comparison value “ 201 "is compared with the random value. In this case, since the random value is equal to or smaller than the comparison value, the main control CPU 72 selects “2” as the corresponding variation pattern number.

  In the present embodiment, the common variation pattern selection table is used for “normal” and “low-probability”, but the “low-probability” is shorter than the “normal” variation time. In order to shorten the variation time, a separate variation pattern selection table may be used.

[Special pattern variation pattern selection table (high probability time short and medium)]
FIG. 26 is a diagram illustrating an example of a special symbol shift pattern selection table used during high probability time reduction.
This selection table is a table used in the case of a loss (in the case of non-winning) in a high probability time period (high probability state and time reduction state).
Here, since the variation pattern at the time of the loss of special symbols with high probability time is set to the same variation pattern (variation time is, for example, 0.6 seconds), this selection table uses one predetermined variation. A table configuration for selecting a pattern (non-reach variation pattern 9) is adopted. Therefore, the main control CPU 72 selects “9” as the variation pattern number regardless of the value of the obtained variation pattern determination random value.

[See Fig. 24: Special symbol change pre-processing]
The above steps S2404 and S2406 are control procedures when the big hit determination result is out of place (in the case of non-winning), but when the determination result is big hit (step S2400: Yes), the main control CPU 72 executes the following procedure. To do. In the present embodiment, the winning probability of the internal lottery is set to about 1/10 during the normal or low probability time, but the winning probability of the internal lottery is set to approximately 1/1 during the high probability time. Since it is set, the following processing is selected at almost every fluctuation for high probabilities.

  Step S2410: The main control CPU 72 executes a big hit stop symbol determination process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the current winning symbol type (successful symbol number at the time of jackpot) for each special symbol based on the jackpot symbol random number. The relationship between the jackpot symbol random number value and the winning symbol type is defined in advance in the jackpot stop symbol selection table. For this reason, the main control CPU 72 can determine the type of winning symbol based on the big hit symbol random number from the stored contents by referring to the big hit symbol stop selection table in the big hit symbol stop determination process.

[Winning pattern at the time of big hit]
Here, the types of winning symbols determined at the time of big hit will be described. In the present embodiment, the following four types are roughly prepared as winning symbols that are selectively determined at the time of a big hit. The four types are “probability variation 1”, “probability variation 2”, “probability variation 3” and “probability variation 4”. These are merely preferred examples, and the above four types of winning symbols are not exhaustive.

  FIG. 27 is a diagram showing a component row of the big hit stop symbol selection table. The main control CPU 72 can determine the type of winning symbol with reference to the big hit stop symbol selection table shown in FIG. 27 in the previous big hit stop symbol determination process (step S2410 in FIG. 24). In addition, the main control CPU 72 activates a time shortening function to be given after the end of the special game according to the game state (non-time shortened state, time shortened state, low probability state, high probability state) at that time for each determined winning symbol. The number of times can be determined.

  In the big hit stop symbol selection table shown in FIG. 27, the leftmost column shows the distribution value for each winning symbol, and each distribution value “40”, “30”, “20”, “10” This corresponds to the ratio (selection ratio) when the denominator is 100, respectively. In the second column from the left, “probability variation symbol 1”, “probability variation symbol 2”, “probability variation symbol 3” and “probability variation symbol 4” corresponding to each distribution value are shown. That is, at the time of a big hit in the internal lottery, the rate at which “probability variation 1” is selected is 40/100 (= 40%), and the rate at which “probability variation 2” is selected is 30/100 (= 30). %). In addition, the ratio that “probability variation 3” is selected is 20/100 (= 20%), and the proportion that “probability variation 4” is selected is 10/100 (= 10%). The size of each distribution value corresponds to the selection ratio for each winning symbol using a jackpot symbol random number. Here, all winning symbols are winning symbols (probability variation symbols) that activate the probability variation function after a big hit. Therefore, in this embodiment, the selection ratio of the probability variation symbol is 100% as a whole, and the “probability variation symbol” is always selected at the first big hit.

[Time reduction function operation count (time reduction count)]
Next, a description will be given of the difference in the number of times the time shortening function is activated for each winning symbol (winning type) and each winning state. In the present embodiment, the four types of winning symbols described above differ in the number of times the time shortening function is activated depending on the state at the time of winning. This will be specifically described below. The addition of the number of times the time shortening function is activated (other than 0) means that the state is shifted to the time shortening state, and specific conditions for the subsequent normal symbol lottery (for example, the winning of the normal symbol lottery) The probability that the probability is higher than the normal probability and the fluctuation time of the normal symbol is shortened).

(1) Low probability non-short-time medium As shown in the third column from the left in FIG. 27, the special symbol lottery (internal lottery) is “low probability state”, and the normal symbol lottery (operation lottery) Assume a case of “non-time reduction state”. In this case, even if the winning symbol corresponds to any of “probability variation symbol 1” to “probability variation symbol 4”, 10,000 times of the time shortening function activation number is added and the time is shifted to high probability time reduction. In addition, even if it corresponds to any of “probability change pattern 1” to “probability change pattern 4”, the state after the big hit is “high probability state”.

[Limiter count setting]
In the present embodiment, with respect to the special symbol lottery (internal lottery), the internal state at the time of winning is “low probability state”, and winning from either “probability symbol 1” to “probability symbol 4” (first winning) Then, for example, in the previous special symbol stop display process (step S4000 in FIG. 23), the “limiter count” is set based on a predetermined upper limit count (for example, 20 including the first count). . This “limiter count” means the limit (continuous count) that the main control CPU 72 can continuously determine if it falls under “probability variation 1” to “probability variation 4” when winning in the “high probability state”. . If the “limiter count” corresponds to “probability variation pattern 1” to “probability variation symbol 4” at the time of winning in the “high probability state”, one is subtracted each time, and the remaining number decreases. However, while the “limiter count” does not reach the remaining zero (there is one or more remaining), the main control CPU 72 performs the “high probability state” in the big hit stop symbol determination process (step S2410 in FIG. 24). It is possible to determine that it corresponds to “probability variation 1” to “probability variation 4” continuously when winning. Therefore, first, a case where there is one or more remaining “limiter count” (before reaching the limiter) will be described.

(2) High probability short and medium (before reaching the limiter)
For example, as shown in the fourth column from the left in FIG. 27, the special symbol lottery (internal lottery) is “high probability state”, and the normal symbol lottery (operation lottery) is “time shortened state”. ”Is assumed. For example, when one of the “probability patterns” falls under the low probability non-short time in (1) above, the state becomes a high probability short-time state. In this case, the time reduction function operation count of 10,000 times is always added to any of the four types of winning symbols. In this case, since “probability variation 1” to “probability variation 4” are continuously won in the “high probability state”, “limiter count” is decremented by one. In addition, regardless of any of “probability pattern 1” to “probability pattern 4”, the state after the big hit is “high probability state” and “time shortening state” together. ) “High probability short and medium” will be maintained.

[When reaching the limiter]
In the “high probability state”, one of “probability variation 1” to “probability variation 4” is won continuously, and “limiter count” is subtracted each time. As a result, the above “limiter count” remains 0. When the number of times is reached, the main control CPU 72 cannot determine that it falls under “probability variation 1” to “probability variation 4” when winning in the “high probability state”. Specifically, even if the jackpot symbol random number corresponds to any one of “probability symbol 1” to “probability symbol 4”, the final winning symbol is any one of “single symbol 1” to “single symbol 4” It is forcibly changed.

(3) High probability short and medium (when the limiter is reached)
The forced change of the winning symbol is shown in the second column from the right in FIG. When the remaining “limiter count” reaches 0 (specified value) in the “high probability state” and the “time shortening state”, even if it is determined to fall under “probability variation 1”, the final The winning symbol is forced to “one-shot symbol 1”. In addition, even if it is determined that it falls under “probable variation 2”, the final winning symbol is forced to “single symbol 2”. Similarly, when it is determined that it corresponds to “probability variation 3”, it is forced to “single variation 3”, and when it is determined to correspond to “probability variation 4”, it is forced to “single variation 4”. As a result of such a mandatory (regulation) of the winning symbol, the “high probability state” after the remaining “limiter count” reaches zero is not continued and is forced to the “low probability state” after the end of the big hit Will be returned to.

  In addition, when “single symbol 1” is forcibly selected as the winning symbol, two times of the time shortening function are activated, and when “single symbol 2” is forcibly selected as the winning symbol, When the number of time reduction function activations is added 6 times and “single symbol 3” is forcibly selected as the winning symbol, nine time reduction function activations are added and “single symbol 4” is selected as the winning symbol. Is forcibly selected, 50 times of the time shortening function operation count is added, and the transition is made to the low probability time reduction.

(4) Low Probability Time Shortening As shown in the rightmost column of FIG. 27, the special symbol lottery (internal lottery) is “low probability state” and the normal symbol lottery (operation lottery) is “time shortened”. Suppose the case is “state”. When the limiter is reached in the above (3) during high probability time reduction, if one of the symbols is forced, the state becomes low probability time reduction. When a winning result is obtained in this state, the time reduction function operation count of 10,000 times is added to any of the four types of winning symbols. In this case, since “probable variation 1” to “probability variation 4” are initially selected from the “low probability state”, the “limiter count” is reset (set to the remaining 19). In addition, regardless of any of “probability pattern 1” to “probability pattern 4”, the state after the big hit is “high probability state” and “time shortening state” together. ) “High probability short-time” will be resumed.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, it can be seen that the number of times the time shortening function is added is different depending on the state at the time of winning and the number of remaining limiters (before arrival / when reaching). As a result, for example, even for the same “probability pattern 1”, 10,000 times of time shortening function activation times may be added depending on the state at the time of winning and the remaining number of limiters (before reaching or at the time of arrival) There may be a case where two times of the time shortening function are activated.

[See Fig. 24: Special symbol change pre-processing]
Step S2412: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a big hit hour variation pattern determination process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the variation pattern (variation time and stop display time) of the special symbol based on the random number for lottery read in the previous step S2300. The main control CPU 72 sets the determined variation time value in the variation timer, and sets the stop display time value in the stop symbol display timer. The variation time at the big hit can be made different depending on whether or not the “time shortening state” described above. In this case, the main control CPU 72 loads the gaming state flag and checks whether or not the current state is the “time reduction state”. It can be set to a shortened time. The main control CPU 72 sets the value of the determined fluctuation time (big hit) in the fluctuation timer, and sets the value of the stop display time in the big hit in the stop symbol display timer.

  Here, in the present embodiment, when the winning is a result of the special symbol lottery, for example, a “reaching effect” is generated and the winning is performed without generating the “reach effect”. Is going to do. In the “Big hit variation pattern selection table”, variation patterns corresponding to multiple types of “reach effects” are stipulated, and when winning a special symbol lottery, one of the variation patterns is selected. Will be selected. The reach production includes various reach production such as normal reach production, battle reach production, and the like.

[Special symbol big hit variation pattern selection table (normal medium / low probability short / medium)]
FIG. 28 is a diagram showing an example of a special symbol big hit variation pattern selection table used during normal or low probability time reduction.
This selection table is used for big wins in special symbol lottery (when winning) in normal (low probability state and non-time reduction state) or low probability time reduction (low probability state and time reduction state). It is a table. In addition, this selection table has a structure in which, for example, “comparison value” and “variation pattern number” are stored as a set of 1 byte each in order from the head address. The “comparison value” includes, for example, eight different values “101”, “201”, “211”, “221”, “231”, “241”, “251”, “255 (FFH)”. “13” to “20” of “variation pattern number” are assigned to each “comparison value”.

  The variation pattern numbers “13” to “17” correspond to the variation patterns that are hit after the battle reach, and the variation pattern numbers “18” to “20” correspond to the variation patterns that are the hit after the normal reach. .

  The main control CPU 72 sequentially compares the obtained variation pattern determination random value with the “comparison value” in the variation pattern selection table, and if the random value is equal to or less than the comparison value, the main control CPU 72 corresponds to the comparison value. A variation pattern number is selected (variation pattern determination means). For example, when the fluctuation pattern determination random number value at that time is “190”, since the random value exceeds the comparison value when compared with the first comparison value “101”, the main control CPU 72 determines the next comparison value “ 201 "is compared with the random value. In this case, since the random value is equal to or smaller than the comparison value, the main control CPU 72 selects “14” as the corresponding variation pattern number.

  In this embodiment, the common big hit variation pattern selection table is used for “normal” and “low probability short and medium”, but “low probability short and medium” than the “normal” variation time. In order to shorten the fluctuation time, separate big hit hour fluctuation pattern selection tables may be used.

[Special symbol big hit variation pattern selection table (high probability short and medium)]
FIG. 29 is a diagram showing an example of a special symbol big hit variation pattern selection table used during high probability time reduction.

This selection table is a table that is used at the time of winning in the special symbol lottery in the high probability time period (high probability state and time reduction state).
Here, the same variation pattern is selected as the variation pattern at the time of winning in the special symbol with high probability time reduction (variation pattern 21 per non-reach; variation time of about 0.6 seconds). When the winning probability of the special symbol is set to a high probability state, the variation of the special symbol is almost a hit variation. Therefore, in the present embodiment, a non-reach variation pattern that does not generate a reach state is adopted. Therefore, the main control CPU 72 selects “21” as the variation pattern number regardless of the acquired variation pattern determination random value (special symbol variation time determination means).

[See Fig. 24: Special symbol change pre-processing]
Step S2413: The main control CPU 72 executes a big hit other setting process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the value of the probability variation function activation flag (for example, as a gaming state flag) when the type of winning symbol (hit stop symbol number) determined in the previous step S2410 corresponds to any probability variation symbol, for example. 01H) is set in the flag area of the RAM 76, and a count counter value (for example, 10,000 times) is set together. Further, the main control CPU 72 sets the value (01H) of the time shortening function operation flag as the gaming state flag in the flag area of the RAM 76 when the time shortening function operation count corresponding to the winning symbol determined at that time is added. At the same time, a count counter value (10000 times or the like) is set (time shortening state transition means).

  Further, the main control CPU 72 generates a time shortening function operation number command (or a count cut counter number command) based on the value of the time shortening function operation number added corresponding to the winning symbol. The time reduction function activation number command generated here is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process. Note that the types of winning symbols and the number of times the time shortening function is activated are as described with reference to FIG.

  In step S2413, the main control CPU 72 determines the display mode of the stop symbol (big hit symbol) by the special symbol display device 34 based on the big hit time stop symbol number. At the same time, the main control CPU 72 generates a lottery result command (at the time of the big hit) together with the stop symbol command (at the time of the big hit). The stop symbol command and the lottery result command are also transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process.

  Step S2414: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes special symbol variation start processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 selects the fluctuation pattern data based on the fluctuation pattern number (out of time / hit). The main control CPU 72 sets the value of the stop symbol display time corresponding to the variation pattern in the display timer. At the same time, the main control CPU 72 sets a special symbol variation start flag in the flag area of the RAM 76. Then, the main control CPU 72 generates a change start command to be transmitted to the effect control device 124. This variation start command is also transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process. When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 sets the special symbol changing process (step S3000) as the next jump destination and returns to the special symbol game process.

[FIG. 23: Special symbol change processing, special symbol stop display processing]
In the special symbol fluctuation processing, the main control CPU 72 loads the value of the fluctuation timer from the register to the timer counter as described above, and then the timer according to the passage of time (clock pulse count number or interrupt counter value). Decrement the counter value. The main control CPU 72 controls the special symbol variation display as described above until the value becomes 0 while referring to the value of the timer counter. When the value of the timer counter becomes 0, the main control CPU 72 sets the special symbol stop display in-progress process (step S4000) as the next jump destination.

  In the special symbol stop display process, the main control CPU 72 controls the special symbol stop display based on the stop symbol determined in the stop symbol determination process (steps S2404 and S2410 in FIG. 24). The main control CPU 72 generates a symbol stop command to be transmitted to the effect control device 124. The symbol stop command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process. When the stop symbol is displayed for a predetermined time in the special symbol stop display process, the main control CPU 72 deletes the symbol changing flag. The special symbol stop display in-progress process will be described later with reference to another flowchart.

[Special symbol stop display processing]
Next, FIG. 30 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the special symbol stop display process (step S4000 in FIG. 23). Hereinafter, a method for setting the above “limiter count” and performing the subtraction process together with a specific procedure for the special symbol stop display process will be described.

  Step S4100: The main control CPU 72 subtracts the value of the stop symbol display timer (for example, decrements by the interrupt period).

  Step S4200: The main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the stop display time has ended based on the value of the stop symbol display timer subtracted this time. Specifically, if the value of the stop symbol display timer is not 0 or less, the main control CPU 72 determines that the stop display time has not yet ended (No). In this case, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game process, jumps from the execution selection process (step S1000 in FIG. 23) also in the next interruption cycle, and repeatedly executes this special symbol stop display process.

  On the other hand, if the value of the stop symbol display timer is 0 or less, the main control CPU 72 determines that the stop display time has ended (Yes). In this case, the main control CPU 72 next executes step S4250.

  Step S4250: The main control CPU 72 generates a symbol stop command and a stop display time end command. The symbol stop command and the stop display time end command are transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process. Further, the main control CPU 72 deletes the symbol changing flag here. The “stop display time end command” is a command indicating that the stop display time of the special symbol has ended (elapsed).

  Step S4300: Here, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the value of the big hit flag (01H) is set. When the value of the big hit flag (01H) is set (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S4310.

  Step S4310: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the current winning symbol is a probability variation symbol. This confirmation can be made based on the big hit stop symbol number. That is, if the current big hit stop symbol number corresponds to one of the above-mentioned “probability variation symbol 1” to “probability variation symbol 4” (Yes), the main control CPU 72 then proceeds to step S4320.

[When probability variation is selected]
Step S4320: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the current winning time is the “high probability state”. When the current winning time is the “low probability state” (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S4330.

  Step S4330: In this case, the main control CPU 72 sets the “limiter count” based on the upper limit count (20 times including the first). Specifically, the value of “limiter count” is set to 19 (remaining number of limiters = 19), and the value is saved in the remaining number counter area of the RAM 76, for example. Here, the reason why the “limiter count” is set to 19 is that the upper limit count is set to 20 including the first win as described above, so the remaining count is 19 throughout.

  The above is an example of the procedure when the current winning time is the “low probability state”, but when the current winning time is the “high probability state” (step S4320: Yes), the main control CPU 72 Perform the procedure.

  Step S4340: In this case, the main control CPU 72 subtracts (−1) the “limiter count” and saves (updates) the value after the subtraction in the remaining number counter area. For example, if the current winning is the second consecutive from “probability variation 1” to “probability variation 4”, since the “limiter count” is already set to 19 at the time of the first winning, the main control CPU 72 In the second time, the “limiter count” is decremented by 1, and the remaining is set to 18 times to update the “limiter count”. Alternatively, if this time's winning is “Continuous Variation 1” to “Consistent Variation 4”, the “Limiter Count” subtracted 18 times in the second time is further subtracted by 1 in the third time. The “limiter count” is updated with the remaining 17 times. As a result, if the “high probability state” hits one of “probability variation 1” to “probability variation 4” in succession, the remaining “limiter count” decreases each time. .

  After this, every time you win, if you fall into the “probability pattern 1” to “probability pattern 4” up to the 20th time, the “limiter count” subtracted by the remaining time in the 19th time is 1 in the 20th time. When one is subtracted, the rest reaches zero. In this case, when the main control CPU 72 executes the previous big hit stop symbol determination process (step S2410 in FIG. 24) at the next winning, the “limiter count” remains 0 when determining the winning symbol using the table of FIG. Since the number of times has been reached, “probability variation 1” to “probability variation 4” are forced to “single symbol 1” to “single symbol 4” as described above.

[When single-shot (normal) design is selected]
On the other hand, when the current big hit stop symbol number is compulsorily determined in the previous step S4310 and corresponds to any one of “single symbol 1” to “single symbol 4” (No), the main control CPU 72 Then, the process proceeds to step S4345.

  Step S4345: In this case, the main control CPU 72 clears the value of “the number of limiters” to 0 (remaining number of limiters = 0). Actually, the value of the “limiter count” is already set to 0 in step S4340 when the limiter is reached. However, the main control CPU 72, for example, performs the previous big hit stop symbol determination process (in FIG. 24). In step S2410), the value of “limiter count” may be cleared when any one of “single symbol 1” to “single symbol 4” is selected as the current winning symbol.

  Step S4346: In any case, when the above procedure is executed, the main control CPU 72 next generates a limiter remaining number command based on the current “number of limiters”. The limiter remaining number command generated here is output to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process (step S214 in FIG. 10).

  Step S4350: Next, the main control CPU 72 sets the jump destination of the jump table to “variable winning device management processing”.

  Step S4360: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes processing for setting various functions to non-operation (low probability non-time shortening state return means). Specifically, the probability variation function is deactivated and the time reduction function is deactivated. Thereby, before the special game (big player) is started, the state is shifted to the low probability non-time shortening state. However, when the number of limiters has not reached 0, the transition to the high probability time shortening state is again made after the end of the special game.

Step S4400: The main control CPU 72 sets “start of big role (during big hit game)” as an internal state flag for control. At the same time, the main control CPU 72 generates a status command representing a big hit. The state command representing the big hit is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process.
When the above procedure is completed at the time of the big hit, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game process.

[When not winning]
On the other hand, the following procedure is executed in cases other than the big hit.
That is, if the main control CPU 72 determines in step S4300 that the value of the big hit flag (01H) is not set (No), it next executes step S4600.

  Step S4600: The main control CPU 72 sets the special symbol variation pre-processing address as the jump destination address of the jump table.

  Step 4610: Next, the main control CPU 72 loads the value of the count-down counter. In the “counting counter”, the counter value is set in the probability variation count area or the time-short count area of the RAM 76 in the “high probability state” and the “time reduction state”. Here, although “number of times cut” is used, the value of the number of times counter in the “high probability state” is set to an extremely large value (for example, 10,000 times or more). Also, in the case of the “time reduction state”, the number of times of operation may be added 10,000 times depending on the winning symbol as described above. By setting such an enormous value, it is possible to probabilistically guarantee that the “high probability state” and the “time reduction state” will continue until the next winning is substantially obtained. In addition, when a number other than 10,000 times, for example, 2, 6, 9, 50, etc. is added as the number of times of operation in the “time reduction state”, the “time reduction state” does not continue until the next big hit. In some cases.

  Step S4620: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the loaded counter value is zero. At this time, if the count cut counter value is already 0 (Yes), the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game process. On the other hand, when the count-down counter value is not 0 (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S4630.

Step S4630: The main control CPU 72 decrements (subtracts 1) the count-down counter value.
Step S4640: Then, the main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the subtraction result is not zero. As a result of the subtraction, when the value of the number cut counter is not 0 (Yes), the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game process. On the other hand, if the value of the number cut counter becomes 0 (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S4650.

  Step S4650: Here, the main control CPU 72 resets a flag at the time of turning off the number of times function. It is the probability variation function activation flag or the time shortening function activation flag that is reset. However, as described above, the value of the count-down counter is not substantially zero in the “high probability state”. It is the time reduction function activation flag that can be reset to. As a result, the time reduction state ends after the special symbol is stopped (non-time reduction state return means). When the above procedure is completed, the process returns to the special symbol game process.

[Display output management processing]
Next, FIG. 31 is a flowchart showing a configuration example of the display output management process (step S212 in FIG. 10) executed in the interrupt management process. The display output management process includes a subroutine group of a special symbol display setting process (step S1200), a normal symbol display setting process (step S1210), a state display setting process (step S1220), and an operation memory display setting process (step S1230). It is.

  Of these, the special symbol display setting process (step S1200), the normal symbol display setting process (step S1210), and the operation memory display setting process (step S1230) are the special symbol display device 34 and the normal symbol display device 33 as described above. And a process of generating and outputting a drive signal to be applied to each LED of the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a.

  The state display setting process (step S1220) is a process for generating and outputting a drive signal to be applied to each LED of the gaming state display device 38. In this process, the main control CPU 72 controls the lighting of the high probability state display lamp 38c and the short time state display lamp 38d, respectively, according to the value of the probability variation function operation flag or the time reduction function operation flag. For example, if the value (01H) is set in the probability variation function operation flag when the pachinko machine 1 is turned on, the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the LED corresponding to the high probability state display lamp 38c. Note that the high probability state display lamp 38c is switched to non-display (turned off) even if the probability variation function operation flag is set when the special symbol variation display is performed thereafter. On the other hand, if the value (01H) is set in the time reduction function operation flag, the main control CPU 72 turns on the lighting signal for the LED corresponding to the time reduction state display lamp 38d regardless of whether or not the power is turned on. Is output.

  In this state display setting process (step S1220), the main control CPU 72 also controls the firing position designation display lamp 38e of the game state display device 38. For example, the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the LED corresponding to the launch position designation display lamp 38e when the special game is being executed or the time reduction function is in operation.

[Variable winning device management process]
Next, details of the variable winning device management process will be described. FIG. 32 is a flowchart illustrating a configuration example of the variable winning device management process. The variable winning device management process includes a gaming process selection process (step S5100), a special winning opening opening pattern setting process (step S5200), a special winning opening / closing operation process (step S5300), a special winning opening closing process (step S5400), and an end. This is a configuration including a subroutine group of processing (step S5500).

  Step S5100: In the game process selection process, the main control CPU 72 selects the jump destination of the process to be executed next (any one of steps S5200 to S5500). That is, the main control CPU 72 selects the program address of the process to be executed next from the jump table as the jump destination address, and sets the end of the variable winning device management process in the stack pointer as the return destination address. Which process is selected as the next jump destination depends on the progress of the processes performed so far. For example, if the operation (opening operation) of the variable winning device 30 has not yet been started, the main control CPU 72 selects the big winning opening opening pattern setting process (step S5200) as the next jump destination. On the other hand, if the winning opening opening pattern setting process has already been completed, the main control CPU 72 selects the winning opening opening / closing operation process (step S5300) as the next jump destination, and has completed the winning opening opening / closing operation process. Then, the special winning opening closing process (step S5400) is selected as the next jump destination. When the big prize opening / closing operation process and the big prize opening closing process are repeatedly executed over the set number of continuous operations (number of rounds), the main control CPU 72 selects an end process (step S5500) as the next jump destination. .

  Step S5200: In the special winning opening opening pattern setting process, the main control CPU 72 sets an opening pattern of the opening time, interval and number of rounds in one round. In the present embodiment, the maximum open time of one round is, for example, “6.0 seconds”, and the number of rounds is fixed to “2 rounds” in advance. As a result, values are set in the release timer, interval timer, and round number counter, respectively. Then, the main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination in the big winning opening / closing operation process. However, the above opening pattern is merely an example, and the present invention is not limited to this. In addition, the main control CPU 72 can set the value of the prize winning valid timer or the illegal prize invalid timer after the above-described operation is finished in the large winning opening opening pattern setting process (first valid time setting means, second valid time setting means). Time setting means).

  Step S5300: Next, in the big winning opening / closing operation processing, the main control CPU 72 controls the opening / closing operation (opening operation) of the variable winning device 30. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 outputs a drive signal to be applied to the special winning opening solenoid 90. As a result, the opening / closing member 30a of the variable winning device 30 is displaced from the closed position to the open position, so that a winning can be made to the big winning opening 30b. Further, the main control CPU 72 executes a countdown of the release timer, and if the value of the release timer is not less than or equal to 0, then the main control CPU 72 executes the counting of the number of winning balls. When it is confirmed that the opening time has ended or the count number has reached a predetermined number (for example, one), the main control CPU 72 closes the special winning opening. Specifically, the output of the drive signal applied to the special winning opening solenoid 90 is stopped. As a result, the variable winning device 30 returns from the open state to the closed state. Thereafter, the main control CPU 72 executes a countdown of the interval timer, and when the value of the interval timer becomes 0 or less, the main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the big prize closing process.

  Step S5400: In the special winning opening closing process, the main control CPU 72 continues the operation of the variable winning device 30 or ends the operation. That is, if the current gaming state is a big hit (a big game), the main control CPU 72 increments the round number counter. Thereby, for example, the first round ends, and the value of the round number counter increases at the stage toward the second round. The main control CPU 72 resets the winning ball counter when the next jump destination is set to the large winning opening / closing operation processing.

  When the main control CPU 72 next executes the variable winning device management process, the main control CPU 72 executes a big winning opening / closing operation process as the next jump destination in the game process selection process (step S5100). Then, the variable winning device until the actual number of rounds reaches the set number of execution rounds (2 times) by the main control CPU 72 executing the special prize opening closing process again after the special prize opening opening / closing operation process is executed. 30 opening and closing operations are executed continuously. When the actual round number reaches the set execution round number, the main control CPU 72 resets the round number counter (= 0), and sets the next jump destination to the end process. Further, the main control CPU 72 resets the winning ball counter and returns to the variable winning device management process. As a result, when the main control CPU 72 next executes the variable winning device management process, the end process is selected this time.

〔End processing〕
FIG. 33 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the end process. This end process is for preparing conditions for ending the operation of the variable prize apparatus 30. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along a procedure.

Step S5502: The main control CPU 72 resets the big hit flag (00H). As a result, the big hit gaming state ends on the control processing of the main control CPU 72.
Step S5504: Also, the main control CPU 72 ends the state of being a big player internally here.

  Step S5506: Next, the main control CPU 72 refers to the flag area of the RAM 76 and confirms whether or not the value (01H) of the probability variation function operation flag is set. This flag is set in the big hit other setting process (step S2413 in FIG. 24) during the special symbol fluctuation pre-process.

  Step S5508: When the value of the probability variation function operation flag is set (step S5506: Yes), the main control CPU 72 sets the probability variation number (for example, about 10,000 times). The set value of the probability variation number is stored, for example, in the probability variation counter area of the RAM 76 and becomes the above-described number cut counter value. The probability variation number set here is the upper limit number of times that the variation of the special symbol (internal lottery) is performed in a high probability state in the subsequent games. However, if a huge number of times such as about 10,000 is set as described above, there is almost no chance of non-winning so far (the winning probability at the time of high probability is, for example, about one-tenth). Therefore, a high probability state will continue until the next winning. If the value of the probability variation function activation flag is not set (step S5506: No), the main control CPU 72 does not execute step S5508. In this case, it does not shift to the “high probability state” after the jackpot ends (the probability variation function is not activated).

  Step S5510: Next, the main control CPU 72 refers to the flag area of the RAM 76 and confirms whether or not the value (01H) of the time reduction function operation flag is set. This time shortening function operation flag is set in the big hit other setting process (step S2413 in FIG. 24) during the previous special symbol fluctuation pre-processing. If the time reduction function operation flag is set (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5512.

  Step S5512: The main control CPU 72 sets the value of the count-down counter corresponding to the time shortening function based on the number of times the time shortening function is activated (10,000 times or the like) corresponding to the current winning symbol. The set number-of-times counter value is stored in the above-mentioned time count area of the RAM 76. If the time reduction function operation flag is not set (step S5510: NO), the main control CPU 72 does not execute step S5512. In this case, it does not shift to the “time reduction state” after the big hit (the time reduction function is not activated).

  Step S5514: The main control CPU 72 generates a state designation command here. Specifically, with the reset of the big hit flag, a state designation command indicating “end of big role” is generated as the gaming state. In addition, when the value of the count-down counter is set based on the number of times that the time shortening function is activated, a state designation command representing the “time shortening state” is generated as the internal state. These state designation commands are transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process (step S214 in FIG. 10).

  Step S5516: After the above procedure at the time of the big hit, the main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the big winning opening opening pattern setting process.

  Step S5518: The main control CPU 72 sets the jump destination in the execution selection process (step S1000 in FIG. 23) in the special symbol game process as the special symbol change pre-process. When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the variable winning device management process.

  The above is the outline of the control method for operating the internal lottery and variable winning device 30 performed through the special symbol game process (step S206 in FIG. 10).

[Normal symbol memory update processing]
Next, the normal symbol memory update process (step S17 in FIG. 21) will be described. FIG. 34 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary procedure of normal symbol storage update processing. Hereinafter, the procedure of the normal symbol memory update process will be described in order.

  Step S20: Here, first, the main control CPU 72 refers to the value of the normal symbol operating memory number counter to check whether or not the operating memory number is less than the maximum value of 4. The working memory number counter represents the number (number of sets) of random numbers determined per ordinary symbol stored in the random number storage area of the RAM 76. That is, the random number storage area of the RAM 76 is divided into four sections (for example, 1 byte each) for the normal symbols, and one random number determined per normal symbol can be stored in each section. At this time, if the value of the working memory number counter reaches the upper limit value (maximum value) (Yes), the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event process (FIG. 21). On the other hand, if the value of the working memory number counter is less than the upper limit value (maximum value) (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S21.

  Step S21: The main control CPU 72 adds one normal symbol operation memory number. The normal symbol operation memory number counter is stored in the operation memory number area of the RAM 76, for example, and the main control CPU 72 increments (+1) the value. Based on the counter value added here, the lighting state of the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a is controlled by the display output management process (step S212 in FIG. 10).

  Step S22: Then, the main control CPU 72 acquires a winning determination random number value corresponding to the normal symbol from, for example, the winning random number counter area of the RAM 76 (lottery element acquisition means). When the main control CPU 72 reads the determined random number value per ordinary symbol from the designated address, the main control CPU 72 saves it to the transfer destination address as a per-decided random number corresponding to the ordinary symbol.

  Step S23: The main control CPU 72 transfers the saved determined random number per normal symbol to a random number storage area corresponding to the normal symbol, and stores it in an empty section in the area. The order (for example, first to fourth) is set in the plurality of sections. If all the first to fourth sections are empty at this stage, the determined random numbers are stored in order from the first section. (Lottery element storage means). Alternatively, if the first section is already filled and the other second to fourth sections are empty, the determined random numbers are stored in order from the second section. Note that the random number storage area is read in the FIFO format.

  Step S23a: The main control CPU 72 executes an effect determination process at the time of acquisition with respect to the normal symbol (first determination means). This process determines the result of the operation lottery in advance (before the start of variation) based on the normal symbol hit random number and the hit symbol random number acquired in the previous steps S22 and S23, respectively, and thereby the lottery result of the operation lottery And for determining the fluctuation time of the normal symbol (so-called “look ahead”). Then, the main control CPU 72 generates a variation pattern destination determination command based on the previous determination result. The variation pattern destination determination command generated here reflects determination information such as the lottery result of the operation lottery and the variation time (or variation pattern number) of the normal symbol. The variation pattern destination determination command generated here is set in the transmission buffer in the following normal symbol effect command output setting process (step S24), and is transmitted to the effect control device 124.

  Step S24: The main control CPU 72 executes a normal symbol effect command output setting process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 performs a setting for transmitting, for example, a normal design start sound control command or a variation pattern destination determination command generated in the previous step S23 to the effect control device 124.

  When the above procedure is completed or the normal symbol operation memory number has reached 4 (maximum value) (step S20: Yes), the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event process (FIG. 21).

[Normal design game processing]
Next, the details of the normal symbol game process (step S207 in FIG. 10) executed during the interrupt management process will be described. FIG. 35 is a flowchart showing a configuration example of a normal symbol game process. Normal symbol game processing includes execution selection processing (step S1001), normal symbol variation pre-processing (step S2001), normal symbol variation processing (step S3001), normal symbol stop display processing (step S4001), variable start winning device management. This is a configuration including a subroutine group of processing (step S5001). First, the basic flow of the normal game management process will be described along each process.

  Step S1001: In the execution selection process, the main control CPU 72 selects a jump destination of a process to be executed next (any one of steps S2001 to S5001). For example, the main control CPU 72 sets the program address of the process to be executed next as the jump destination address and sets the end of the normal symbol game process in the “jump table” as the return destination address. Which process is selected as the next jump destination depends on the progress of the processes performed so far. For example, if the normal symbol has not yet started to be changed, the main control CPU 72 selects the normal symbol change pre-process (step S2001) as the next jump destination. On the other hand, if the normal symbol variation pre-processing has already been completed, the main control CPU 72 selects the normal symbol variation processing (step S3001) as the next jump destination, and if the normal symbol variation processing has been completed, For example, the normal symbol stop display process (step S4001) is selected as the jump destination. In this embodiment, the jump destination address is specified by the “jump table” and the process is selected. However, apart from such a selection method, a “process flag”, a “process selection flag”, or the like is used. There is also a known programming example in which the CPU selects a process to be executed next. In such a programming example, the CPU CALLs each process in a single way, and at the top step, the conditional branch (continuation / return) is performed with reference to the flag one by one. There is no need for the CPU 72 to call each process one by one.

  Step S2001: In the normal symbol variation pre-processing, the main control CPU 72 performs an operation for preparing conditions for starting the variation display of the regular symbol. The specific processing content will be described later using another flowchart.

  Step S3001: In the normal symbol changing process, the main control CPU 72 controls the normal symbol display device 33 while counting the change timer. Specifically, an ON or OFF drive signal is output to each of the two LEDs constituting the normal symbol display device 33. The pattern of the drive signal changes with the passage of time, whereby a normal symbol variation display is performed. In this embodiment, since the two symbols are alternately lit and extinguished to perform normal symbol variation display, the drive signal pattern can be configured simply (for example, in two patterns), and the main control accordingly. The load on the CPU 72 can be reduced.

  Step S4001: In the normal symbol stop display process, the main control CPU 72 controls the driving of the normal symbol display device 33. Similarly, an ON or OFF drive signal is output to each of the two LEDs, but the pattern of the drive signal is constant, whereby a normal symbol stop display is performed. In the present embodiment, among the two upper and lower LEDs, for example, a stop display at the time of winning is performed with the upper LED lit, and a stop display at the time of non-winning is performed with the lower LED lit. it can.

  Step S5001: The variable start winning device management process is selected when the normal symbol is stopped and displayed in the winning manner (for example, the above one LED is lit) in the previous normal symbol stop display process. When the normal symbol is stopped and displayed in a winning manner, in this process, the main control CPU 72 operates the variable start winning device 28 on the assumption that the operation condition is satisfied. The operating conditions for the variable start winning device 28 will be described later.

  While the variable start winning device 28 is in operation, the jump destination is set in the variable start winning device management process (step S5001) in the previous execution selection process (step S1001), and the normal symbol variation display is not performed. In the variable start winning device management process, the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 88 is energized for a predetermined time (for example, a maximum of 5.0 seconds or until nine winnings are counted) for a predetermined number of times (for example, once). As a result, the variable start winning device 28 operates in the set pattern, and the winning to the right start winning port 28a can be generated.

[Normal pattern change pre-processing]
Next, FIG. 36 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the normal symbol variation pre-processing. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along each procedure.

  Step S6100: First, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the normal symbol operation memory number remains (is greater than 0). This confirmation can be made with reference to the value of the normal symbol operation memory number counter stored in the RAM 76. When the working memory number is 0 (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the normal symbol game process (FIG. 35).

  On the other hand, if the value of the normal symbol operation memory number counter is greater than 0 (Yes), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S6200.

  Step S6200: The main control CPU 72 executes a normal symbol storage shift process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 reads a random number for lottery (normal random number determined per symbol) stored in the random number storage area of the RAM 76 and stores it in, for example, another common storage area. At this time, if random numbers are stored in two or more sections, the main control CPU 72 sequentially reads the random numbers from the first section, and moves (shifts) the remaining random numbers one by one to the previous section. Each random number stored in the common storage area is used for the operation lottery in the subsequent hit determination process.

  Step S6250: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a normal symbol operating memory number subtraction process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 subtracts one value of the normal symbol operation memory number counter stored in the RAM 76, and sets the value after subtraction to the “normal symbol fluctuation start operation memory number”. As a result, the display mode of the number stored by the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33 changes (decreases by 1) in the display output management process (step S212 in FIG. 10). When the procedure so far is completed, the main control CPU 72 next executes step S6300.

  Step S6300: The main control CPU 72 executes a hit determination process (operation lottery) (lottery execution means, operation lottery execution means). In this process, the main control CPU 72 sets a range of normal symbol value and determines whether or not the read random number value is included in this range. The range of the normal symbol per value set at this time is different for the “non-time reduction state” and the “time reduction state”. By enlarging to about 100 times, the winning probability of the operation lottery is set extremely high compared to the “non-time shortened state”. If the random value read at this time is included in the range of the winning value, the main control CPU 72 sets the normal symbol winning flag (01H), and then proceeds to step S6400. In the present embodiment, the hit determination is performed by setting a range of the hit value on the program. However, the hit determination table is written in the ROM 74 in advance, and the hit determination is read and compared with the random number value. There are also programming examples. Further, the specific winning probability for each state will be described later with reference to another drawing.

  Here, the two states of “non-time reduction state” and “time reduction state” appearing in the present embodiment will be described. Note that the “non-time reduction state” is a normal state in which a game is first started on a gaming machine, and the “time reduction state” is a high-probability short-time and low-probability executed after the end of a special game. It is in a state that includes a short time.

[Non-time reduction state]
First, the “non-time reduction state” is a state in which the normal symbol fluctuation time is set to a normal length (for example, about 15 seconds).

[Time reduction state]
Next, the “time shortening state” is set to a length (for example, about 0.6 seconds) in which the fluctuation time of the normal symbol is shortened compared to the above “non-time shortening state”. The probability that the winning result is obtained in the normal symbol lottery (acting lottery) is set to a high probability compared with the “non-time shortened state” (for example, “low probability” is 1/128 → “high probability” is 128 minutes) 127), and the opening time of the variable start winning device 28 is set to an extended length (for example, “about 0.1 seconds” → “about 5.0 seconds”) compared with the “non-time shortened state”. State.

  Details of specific setting values for each state will be described later. To summarize, the “non-time-reduced state” is a state in which no so-called electric chew support is performed, and a special symbol is used at a normal frequency. This is a state in which a lottery opportunity for the lottery occurs. On the other hand, the “time shortening state” is a state where so-called electric chew support is performed, and a lottery opportunity for a special symbol lottery occurs more frequently than the “non-time shortening state”. is there.

[See Figure 36: Normal symbol variation pre-processing]
Step S6400: The main control CPU 72 determines whether or not a value (01H) is set for the hit flag in the previous hit determination process. If the value (01H) is not set in the hit flag (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S6404.

  Step S6404: The main control CPU 72 executes a stop symbol determination process upon disconnection. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sets stop symbol number data at the time of disconnection by the normal symbol display device 33. Further, the main control CPU 72 generates a stop symbol designation command and a lottery result command (at the time of loss) to be transmitted to the effect control device 124. These commands are transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process (step S214 in FIG. 10).

  In this embodiment, since two LEDs are used for the normal symbol display device 33, for example, as described above, the display mode of the stop symbol at the time of disconnection is only the lighting display of one of the LEDs (lower side). The stop symbol number data can be fixed to one value. In this case, the storage capacity used in the program can be reduced, the processing load on the main control CPU 72 can be reduced, and the processing speed can be improved. Such a way of thinking can be similarly applied to a case where a 7-segment LED is used for the normal symbol display device 33.

  Step S6406: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a deviation variation pattern determination process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the fluctuation pattern number at the time of deviation for the normal symbol. The variation pattern number is for distinguishing the type of variation pattern or defining the variation time at that time, and is determined, for example, by random number lottery by the main control CPU 72. That is, the main control CPU 72 refers to, for example, a variation pattern selection table in this process, and selects a variation pattern number corresponding to a random number per symbol (non-winning one) on this table. In the table, the variation time corresponding to the variation pattern number is set in advance, and the main control CPU 72 can acquire the variation time corresponding to the selected variation pattern number from the table.

[Normal pattern deviation variation pattern selection table]
FIG. 37 is a diagram showing an example of a normal pattern deviation variation pattern selection table. 37 (A) is a table used when a normal symbol lottery is not won during normal times, and FIG. 37 (B) is a non-winning case during a normal symbol lottery during low or high probability times. It is a table used sometimes.

  Here, as shown in (A) of FIG. 37, when the result of non-winning is obtained in the normal symbol lottery during normal, the same variation pattern is selected as the variation pattern at that time. (Displacement fluctuation pattern 31; fluctuation time of about 15.0 seconds). Accordingly, the main control CPU 72 selects “31” as the variation pattern number regardless of the acquired variation pattern determination random value (normal symbol variation time determination means).

  In addition, as shown in (B) of FIG. 37, when the result of non-winning is obtained in the normal symbol lottery during the low probability short time or high probability short time, the variation pattern at that time is all the same variation A pattern is selected (displacement variation pattern 32; variation time is about 0.6 seconds). Therefore, the main control CPU 72 selects “32” as the variation pattern number regardless of the obtained variation pattern determination random value (normal symbol variation time determination means).

[See Figure 36: Normal symbol variation pre-processing]
The above steps S6404 and S6406 are control procedures when the hit determination result is out of order, but when the determination result is hit (step S6400: Yes), the main control CPU 72 executes the following procedure.

  Step S6410: The main control CPU 72 executes a hit stop symbol determination process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines a winning stop symbol number. However, in this embodiment, since a plurality of winning symbols are not provided for the normal symbols, the main control CPU 72 basically selects one type of stop symbol number.

  Step S6412: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a hit variation pattern determination process. In this process, when the main control CPU 72 acquires, for example, a variation pattern determination random number (normal symbol variation random number) from the counter area of the RAM 76, the main control CPU 72 determines the variation pattern (variation time) of the normal symbol based on the value.

[Normal fluctuation pattern selection table per symbol]
FIG. 38 is a diagram showing an example of the normal pattern per hour variation pattern selection table. 38 (A) is a table used at the time of winning in the normal symbol lottery during normal times, and FIG. 38 (B) is at the time of winning in the normal symbol lottery during low or high probability times. This is the table used.

  Here, as shown in FIG. 38 (A), when the winning result is obtained in the normal normal symbol lottery, the same variation pattern is selected as the variation pattern at that time. (Non-reach fluctuation pattern 41; fluctuation time of about 15.0 seconds). Accordingly, the main control CPU 72 selects “41” as the variation pattern number regardless of the acquired variation pattern determination random value (normal symbol variation time determination means).

  In addition, as shown in FIG. 38 (B), when the winning result is obtained in the normal symbol lottery during the low probability short time or high probability short time, all the variation patterns at that time are the same variation pattern. Is selected (variation pattern 42 per non-reach; variation time of about 0.6 seconds). Therefore, the main control CPU 72 selects “42” as the variation pattern number regardless of the acquired variation pattern determination random value (normal symbol variation time determination means).

[See Figure 36: Normal symbol variation pre-processing]
Step S6413: The main control CPU 72 executes a hit and other setting process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the display mode of the stop symbol (win symbol) by the normal symbol display device 33 based on the hit symbol number. However, as described above, since the stop symbol number is one type in the present embodiment, the main control CPU 72 determines one display mode (lights the upper LED on). The main control CPU 72 generates a stop symbol command and a lottery result command (winning time) to be transmitted to the effect control device 124. The stop symbol command and the lottery result command are also transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process (step S214 in FIG. 10).

  Step S6414: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes normal symbol variation start processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 selects the fluctuation pattern data based on the fluctuation pattern number (out of time / hit), and sets the fluctuation time value corresponding to the fluctuation pattern in the fluctuation timer. At the same time, the main control CPU 72 sets a normal symbol variation start flag in the flag area of the RAM 76. Then, the main control CPU 72 generates a change start command to be transmitted to the effect control device 124. This variation start command is also transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process. When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the normal symbol game process.

[FIG. 35: Normal symbol changing process, normal symbol stop display process]
When returning to the normal symbol game process, the main control CPU 72 sets the normal symbol changing process (step S3001) as the next jump destination. In the normal symbol fluctuation processing, the main control CPU 72 loads the value of the fluctuation timer from the register to the timer counter as described above, and thereafter, according to the passage of time (clock pulse count number or interrupt counter count number). Decrement the timer counter value. Then, the main control CPU 72 refers to the value of the timer counter and controls the normal symbol fluctuation display as described above until the value becomes zero. When the value of the timer counter becomes 0, the main control CPU 72 sets the normal symbol stop display process (step S4001) as the next jump destination.

  In the normal symbol stop display process, the main control CPU 72 controls the stop display of the normal symbol based on the stop symbol determined in the hit stop symbol determination process (steps S6404 and S6410 in FIG. 36). The main control CPU 72 generates a symbol stop command to be transmitted to the effect control device 124. The symbol stop command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process. If the stop symbol is displayed for a predetermined time in the normal symbol stop display processing, the main control CPU 72 deletes the symbol changing flag.

[Variable winning device management process]
Next, the variable start winning device management process will be described. FIG. 39 is a flowchart illustrating a configuration example of the variable start winning device management process. The variable start winning device management process includes a subroutine group of a game process selection process (step S5101), an opening pattern setting process (step S5201), an opening / closing operation process (step S5301), a closing process (step S5401), and an end process (step S5501). It is the structure containing.

  Step S5101: In the game process selection process, the main control CPU 72 selects a jump destination of a process to be executed next (any one of steps S5201 to S5501). That is, the main control CPU 72 selects the program address of the process to be executed next from the jump table as the jump destination address, and sets the end of the variable start winning device management process in the stack pointer as the return destination address. Which process is selected as the next jump destination depends on the progress of the processes performed so far. For example, if the operation of the variable start winning device 28 has not been started yet, the main control CPU 72 selects an opening pattern setting process (step S5201) as the next jump destination. On the other hand, if the opening pattern setting process has already been completed, the main control CPU 72 selects the opening / closing operation process (step S5301) as the next jump destination, and if the opening / closing operation process has been completed, it closes as the next jump destination. A process (step S5401) is selected. When the opening / closing operation process and the closing process are executed, the main control CPU 72 selects an end process (step S5501) as the next jump destination. Hereinafter, each process will be described in more detail.

[Open pattern setting process]
Step S5201: In the opening pattern setting process, the main control CPU 72 sets, for example, an operating time (opening time) and the number of operations (opening frequency) as the opening pattern of the variable start winning device 28. In the present embodiment, the operation time of the variable start winning device 28 is set differently according to the “non-time reduction state” or “time reduction state” (details will be described later). The main control CPU 72 sets an opening / closing operation process (step S5301) as the next jump destination. In addition, the main control CPU 72 can set the value of the prize winning valid timer or the illegal prize invalid timer after the completion of the operation in the opening pattern setting process (first valid time setting means, second valid time setting means). ).

  Step S5301: In the next opening / closing operation process, the main control CPU 72 drives the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 88 based on the operation time set in the previous step S5201. Thus, the variable start winning device 28 is actually actuated (opened). The main control CPU 72 sets a closing process (step S5401) as the next jump destination.

  Step S5401: In the closing process, the main control CPU 72 counts the elapsed operating time based on the timer counter value. When the value of the timer counter becomes 0 or less, the main control CPU 72 switches the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 88 to the inoperative state (OFF). Then, the main control CPU 72 sets an end process (step S5501) as the next jump destination.

  Step S5501: In the end process, the main control CPU 72 sets conditions for ending the operation of the variable start winning device 28. For example, the main control CPU 72 resets the value (01H) of the ordinary electric accessory operation flag. The main control CPU 72 sets the jump destination in the execution selection process (step S1001 in FIG. 35) in the normal symbol game process to the normal symbol change pre-process. When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the variable start winning device management process.

  FIG. 40 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of a normal symbol operating condition setting table. In this normal symbol operating condition setting table, the normal symbol hit probability and variation time are set differently during normal (non-time shortened state) and low probability short time middle or high probability short time short (time shortened state). This is for setting different opening patterns (operation times) of the variable start winning device 28 at the time of hit (opening time defining means).

  As shown in the second row from the top in FIG. 40, a normal winning probability (for example, 1/128) is applied to the normal symbol lottery (operation lottery) performed in the normal state. In addition, a long variation time (about 15.0 seconds) is applied to the normal symbol variation display that is normally performed.

  Further, during normal times, the variable start winning device 28 performs an opening operation based on the short opening pattern. Specifically, for example, an operation pattern in which a short opening time (operation time: 0.1 second) and the number of times of one operation are set is applied (opening time determining means).

  On the other hand, as shown in the lowermost row in FIG. 40, in the operation lottery performed in the low probability short time or high probability short time (time shortening state), a higher winning probability ( For example, 127 / 128≈1 / 1) is applied. As a result, the operation lottery is won at a higher frequency than normal during the low probability short time or high probability time short (the operation condition is satisfied), so that the variable start winning device 28 is won with a higher frequency. It becomes easy. In addition, a short fluctuation time (for example, about 0.6 seconds) is applied to a normal symbol fluctuation display performed during a low probability time or a high probability time.

  Further, during the low probability time short or high probability time short, the variable start winning device 28 performs the opening operation based on the long opening pattern. Specifically, for example, an operation pattern in which a long opening time (operation time: 5.0 seconds) and the number of times of one operation are set is applied (opening time determining means).

  The above is the outline of the control method for operating the operation lottery and variable start winning device 28 performed through the normal symbol game process (step S207 in FIG. 10).

[Example of production image]
Next, the effect image actually displayed on the dot matrix LED display 42 in the pachinko machine 1 will be described with some examples. As described above, when the jackpot internal lottery is performed in the pachinko machine 1, the variation pattern (variation time) is determined under the control of the main control CPU 72, and the variation display by the special symbol is performed (special symbol display means). . However, as described above, the special symbol itself is a lighting / flashing display by a 7-segment LED, so that the appealing power is not good. Therefore, in the pachinko machine 1, a variable display effect using the effect symbol is performed.

  The effect symbols include, for example, a left effect symbol, a middle effect symbol, and a right effect symbol, which are displayed side by side on the left, middle, and right on the dot matrix LED display 42 screen. Each effect symbol is, for example, a number “0” to “9” is expressed. For all effect symbols (left effect symbol, middle effect symbol, and right effect symbol), a symbol row is formed in which numbers are arranged in ascending order of “0” to “9”. Such a symbol sequence is variably displayed so as to flow (scroll) in the vertical direction in the left region, middle region, and right region on the screen.

[Special design per stage]
FIG. 41 is a continuous diagram showing an example of an effect corresponding to the change display and stop display of special symbols. In addition, here, an example of a change display effect and a stop display effect performed using the effect symbol is shown for the variation of the special symbol at the time of winning. This variable display effect corresponds to a series of effects performed from when the special symbol starts variable display until it is stopped and displayed (including fixed stop). The stop display effect is an effect that represents that the special symbol is stopped and displayed and the result of the internal lottery at that time is a combination of the effect symbols. Here, before explaining the specific contents of the control processing, the basic flow of the change display effect and stop display effect for each change employed in the present embodiment will be described.

[Variable display production start]
In FIG. 41 (A): In synchronization with the start of the change of the special symbol, the change display effect is started when the three effect symbols scroll and change on the display screen of the dot matrix LED display 42. In the figure, the change display of the effect symbol is simply indicated by a downward arrow. In addition, although not shown here, for example, a mode in which a notice effect is performed by displaying an image of a character, an item, or the like on the display screen may be used.

[Stop of left design]
In FIG. 41 (B): When a certain amount of time has elapsed since the start of the change of the special symbol, the left effect design stops changing first. In this example, the effect design representing the dot character “7” is stopped at the left position of the screen.

[Reach condition occurs]
41 (C): Furthermore, the right effect symbol stops changing, and at this time, the effect symbol representing “7” of the dot character is also stopped at the right position of the screen, so that the reach state occurs. At this time, the medium performance symbol is changing.

  In general, when all three of the same type of effect symbols are stopped on the effect, it is “winning”, and here, the remaining one of the remaining effect symbols is stopped and displayed until “winning” is confirmed. Although not particularly illustrated, it may be an aspect in which character information such as “reach!” Is displayed on the display screen, and a sound is output together. After the reach state occurs, the process until the last effect symbol (medium effect symbol) is stopped and displayed is expressed with various contents. In this example, there is an effect in which the medium effect symbol moves while slowly scrolling. Such an effect is intended to remind the player of the idea that “If the dot character of“ 7 ”stops at the end”, the player will continue to expect.

[Preliminary notice after reach occurs]
In FIG. 41 (D): When the reach effect is approaching the final stage, a notice effect after the occurrence of reach is performed, in which the image of the heart shape is suddenly displayed on the screen so as to be split into a large image. At this time, for example, the content of the reach effect is a development that “if the last dot character of“ 6 ”passes, then the possibility of a big hit of“ 7 ”-“ 7 ”-“ 7 ”increases”. Therefore, by causing a large heart-shaped image to appear at this timing, it is possible to obtain an effect of giving the player a sense of expectation that “may be a hit”. Further, in the illustrated example, an example is shown in which three heart shapes are displayed. However, the reliability (expectation) for the big hit can be changed by increasing or decreasing the number of heart shapes.

[Result display effect]
In FIG. 41 (E): The last medium effect symbol stops substantially in synchronization with the stop display of the special symbol (not necessarily at the same time). In the illustrated example, the dot character “7” is stopped and displayed on the screen, and the left / middle / right effect symbols are stopped and displayed in a manner of hitting “7”-“7”-“7”. . In this way, when the effect symbol (special symbol) is stopped and displayed in a big hit manner, the operation of the variable winning device 30 is started.

[Direction when the variable winning device is activated]
FIG. 42 is a diagram illustrating an example of an effect executed when the variable winning device is activated. In this example, for example, a dot character “right da!” Is displayed on the screen of the dot matrix LED display 42 (see (A) in FIG. 42), or an image imitating a right arrow figure indicating the right direction. Can be displayed (see (B) in FIG. 42). By executing such an effect, it is possible to prompt the player to “right-hand” and to be aware that the operation of the variable winning device 30 is started. At this time, in accordance with the display of the character information on the display screen, sounds such as “Aim for the right” and “Right strike” may be generated from the speakers 54, 55, and 56. The effect at the time of operation of the variable winning device may be executed immediately after the operation of the variable winning device 30 is started, but the state before the operation of the variable winning device 30 is started (the variable winning device opening waiting state). ).

[Director during big role]
Next, FIG. 43 is a diagram illustrating an example of an effect that is executed when a continuous big hit state occurs. The pachinko machine 1 according to the present embodiment is a type of gaming machine in which a big hit state is repeated (looped) many times once a big hit state occurs. The following production examples show production examples when the variable start winning device 28 and the variable winning device 30 are operating in a state where a big hit loop state is occurring.

  When the variable winning device 30 is in operation, for example, a dot character “V” is displayed on the screen of the dot matrix LED display 42 (see FIG. 43A), or a dot character “Atari” is displayed. Can be displayed (see (B) in FIG. 43). By executing such an effect, the player is instructed that he is “in a big role”, or is given a satisfaction that the player has entered a special gaming state or is continuing the special gaming state. be able to.

  In addition, when the big hit loop is generated and the variable start winning device 28 is operating (high probability short-time), the limiter is decreased by one every time a chance change win is generated. Therefore, for example, the dot character “no-collis” is displayed on the screen of the dot matrix LED display 42 (see (C) in FIG. 43), followed by the dot character “15 times”. (See (D) in FIG. 43). This reminds the player that the remaining number of limiters is gradually decreasing, and communicates (instructs) internal information (“limiter count”) used in the actual game flow to the player. , Suggest).

[Direction when reaching the limiter]
Next, FIG. 44 is a diagram illustrating an effect example executed when the limiter is reached. When the remaining “limiter count” reaches zero internally, the following effect example is executed.

[End production]
In FIG. 44 (A): A dot character of “Wari”, for example, is displayed in the screen of the dot matrix LED display 42. Thereby, it can be instructed to the player that the big hit loop has ended.

[Teaching lesson times (part 1)]
(B) in FIG. 44: Following the end effect, a time-shorted teaching effect is executed. Here, it is assumed that when the limiter is reached, it corresponds to “probability pattern 1”, is forced to “single pattern 1”, and the time reduction function operation count is given “2 times”. In the example shown in the figure, a dot character of “ditan”, for example, is displayed in the screen of the dot matrix LED display 42.

[Teaching lessons (part 2)]
(C) in FIG. 44: The assigned time shortening function operation count is transmitted to the player. In the illustrated example, for example, “twice” dot characters are displayed in the screen of the dot matrix LED display 42. As a result, it is possible to teach the player that “there are two chances in the time shortening state”, and it is possible to maintain the willingness to play for the next big hit.

  When entering the time shortening state, the variable start winning device 28 operates at a high frequency, so that the special symbol can be changed without flowing the game ball into the ball inlet 40a of the ball guiding unit 40. Can be said to be an advantageous state. However, since the winning probability of the special symbol has returned to a low probability, even if the special symbol is changed by the number of times the time shortening function is given, the special symbol lottery will not win and the normal state will be restored. Sometimes.

[Special production]
Next, FIG. 45 is a diagram showing an example of special effects produced after the final variation of the special symbol in the time shortening state. In the following production example, when the time reduction function is activated “2 times”, the second fluctuation display in the time reduction state is performed, and the normal reach corresponding to non-winning in the second fluctuation is performed. It is an example of the production when the production is selected.

[Variable display production start]
In FIG. 45, (A): Synchronized with the start of the change of the special symbol, the change display effect is started when the three effect symbols scroll and change on the display screen of the dot matrix LED display 42.

[Stop of left design]
(B) in FIG. 45: When a certain amount of time has elapsed since the start of the change of the special symbol, the left effect design first stops changing. In this example, it is shown that the effect design representing the dot character “3” has stopped at the left position of the screen.

[Reach condition occurs]
45 (C): Furthermore, the right effect symbol stops changing, and at this time, the effect symbol representing “3” of the dot character is also stopped at the right position of the screen, so that a reach state occurs. At this time, the medium performance symbol is changing.

[Result display effect]
In FIG. 45 (D): The last medium effect symbol stops substantially synchronously with the stop display of the special symbol (not necessarily at the same time). In the illustrated example, the dot character “4” is stopped and displayed on the screen, and the left / middle / right effect symbols are stopped and displayed in a manner of hitting “3”-“4”-“3”. . As a result, the player can be informed that the change in the special symbol this time was not won.

[Special production]
In FIG. 45 (E): Then, the time shortening function is deactivated when the final change of the special symbol in the time shortening state ends, and the gaming state shifts from the time shortening state to the normal state. At this time, the dot matrix LED display 42 executes a special effect of displaying the dot character “left da!” On the screen, thereby prompting the player to “left strike”, and the time-saving state is reduced. You can make them aware that it has ended.

  Next, an example of a control method for specifically realizing the above effects will be described. The above-described variable display effect, reach effect, notice effect after the occurrence of reach, a big hit effect, a special effect, and the like are all controlled through the following control process.

[Production control processing]
FIG. 46 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of effect control processing executed by the effect control CPU 126. This effect control process is executed, for example, in a timer interrupt process (interrupt management process) separately from a reset start (main) process (not shown). The effect control CPU 126 generates a timer interrupt at a predetermined interrupt cycle (for example, a period of several tens of μs to several ms) during execution of the reset start process, and executes the timer interrupt process.

  The effect control process includes a command reception process (step S400), an effect symbol management process (step S402), a special effect management process (step S403), a display output process (step S404), a lamp driving process (step S406), and an acoustic driving process. (Step S408), production random number update processing (Step S410) and other processing (Step S412) subroutine group. Hereinafter, the basic flow of the effect control process will be described along each process.

  Step S400: In the command receiving process, the effect control CPU 126 receives an effect command transmitted from the main control CPU 72. The effect control CPU 126 analyzes the received commands and stores them in the command buffer area of the RAM 130 according to type. The production commands transmitted from the main control CPU 72 include, for example, a variation pattern destination determination command, a start opening winning tone control command, a demonstration production command, a lottery result command, a variation pattern command, a variation start command, and a stop symbol command. There are a symbol stop command, a state designation command, a round number command, an error notification command, a time shortening function activation number command, a stop display time end command, a switch-based prize command, and the like. The commands received by the effect control CPU 126 are not limited to these commands, and various commands can be received according to the effect contents and game specifications.

  Step S402: In the effect symbol management process, the effect control CPU 126 controls the contents of the variable display effect and the result display effect using the effect symbols, and controls the effect contents during the opening / closing operation of the variable winning device 30. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects various types of notice effects (notice effects after the occurrence of reach, etc.). The contents of the effect symbol management process will be further described later with reference to another drawing.

  Step S403: In the special effect management process, the effect control CPU 126 controls the execution of the special effect described above. The contents of the special effect management process will be described later with reference to another drawing.

  Step S404: In the display output process, the effect control CPU 126 instructs the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146) to provide basic control information of the effect contents (for example, a change effect pattern number, a change notice effect number at the time of change, etc.). To do. Thereby, the effect display control device 144 (the display control CPU 146 and the VDP 152) controls the display operation by the dot matrix LED display 42 based on the instructed effect contents (acts as various effect executing means).

  Step S406: In the lamp driving process, the effect control CPU 126 outputs a control signal to the lamp driving circuit 132. In response to this, the lamp driving circuit 132 drives (turns on or off, blinks, changes in luminance gradation, etc.) the various lamps 46 to 52 and the panel lamp 53 based on the control signal.

  Step S408: In the next acoustic drive process, the production control CPU 126 gives the production details to the acoustic drive circuit 134 (for example, BGM during variable display production, reach production, big hit production, BGM during probability change, BGM during time reduction, audio data) Etc.). Thereby, the sound according to the production content is output from the speakers 54, 55, and 56.

  Step S410: In the effect random number update process, the effect control CPU 126 updates various effect random numbers in the counter area of the RAM 130. The effect random numbers include, for example, a random number used for selecting a notice and a random number used for a normal effect lottery.

  Step S412: In other processing, for example, the production control CPU 126 outputs a control signal to the drive IC for the movable body with respect to the production movable body (for example, the drum unit 214). The movable body is operated by a driving source such as a solenoid or a stepping motor, for example, and produces an effect in synchronization with the display of an image by the dot matrix LED display 42 or independently. These solenoids, stepping motors, and other driving sources can be connected to, for example, the panel electric decoration board 138 in FIG.

  Through the above-described effect control process, the effect control CPU 126 can comprehensively control the effect contents in the pachinko machine 1. Next, the contents of the symbol effect management process executed in the effect control process will be described.

[Direction design management processing]
FIG. 47 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the effect symbol management process. The effect symbol management process includes an execution selection process (step S500), an effect symbol change pre-process (step S502), an effect symbol change process (step S504), an effect symbol stop display process (step S506), and a variable winning device operation. This is a configuration including a subroutine group of processing (step S508). Hereinafter, the basic flow of the effect symbol management process will be described along each process.

  Step S500: In the execution selection process, the effect control CPU 126 selects the jump destination of the process to be executed next (any one of steps S502 to S508). For example, the effect control CPU 126 sets the program address of the process to be executed next as the jump destination address, and sets the end of the effect symbol management process in the “jump table” as the return address. Which process is selected as the next jump destination depends on the progress of the processes performed so far. For example, if the situation has not yet started the variation display effect, the effect control CPU 126 selects the effect symbol variation pre-processing (step S502) as the next jump destination. On the other hand, if the effect symbol variation pre-processing has already been completed, the effect control CPU 126 selects the effect symbol variation processing (step S504) as the next jump destination, and if the effect symbol variation in-process has been completed, As a jump destination, the effect symbol stop display in-progress process (step S506) is selected. The variable winning device operating process (step S508) is selected as a jump destination only when the variable winning device management process (step S5000 in FIG. 23) is selected in the main control CPU 72. In this case, steps S502 to S506 are not executed.

  Step S502: In the effect symbol variation pre-processing, the effect control CPU 126 performs an operation of preparing conditions for starting the variable display effect using the effect symbol. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects the contents of the reach effect according to various conditions (the lottery result, the winning type, the variation pattern, etc.), or the pattern of the advance effect (the advance notice pattern before reach occurrence, the advance notice after reach occurrence). Pattern etc.). In addition, the production control CPU 126 also performs demonstration production control when the pachinko machine 1 is in a so-called customer waiting state. The specific processing content will be described later using another flowchart.

  Step S504: In the effect symbol changing process, the effect control CPU 126 generates control information instructing the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146) as necessary. For example, when performing an effect using the effect switching button 450 while executing a variable display effect using an effect symbol, the effect control CPU 126 monitors whether or not the player has operated the effect button, and an effect corresponding to the result is displayed. The control information on the contents (button effect) is instructed to the display control CPU 146.

  Step S506: In the effect symbol stop display process, the effect control CPU 126 controls the contents of the result display effect using the effect symbols and moving images in a manner corresponding to the result of the internal lottery. That is, the effect control CPU 126 instructs the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146) to end the variable display effect and execute the result display effect. In response to this, the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146) ends the variable display effect that has been actually executed within the display screen of the dot matrix LED display 42, and executes the result display effect. Thereby, a result display effect is executed substantially in synchronization with the stop display of the special symbol, and the result of the internal lottery can be effectively taught (disclosure, notification, notification, etc.) to the player.

  Step S508: In the variable winning device operating process, the effect control CPU 126 controls the contents of the effect during the big hit. In this processing, the effect control CPU 126 selects the contents of the prominent effect according to various conditions (for example, winning type). In this embodiment, since the 2 round big hit is adopted, the effect control CPU 126 selects the effect pattern of the two-round big role as the effect contents to be displayed on the dot matrix LED display 42, and this is displayed as the effect display control device 144. (Display control CPU 146) is instructed. As a result, on the display screen of the dot matrix LED display 42, an image of a big hit effect is displayed, and the contents of the effect change as the round progresses.

[Preliminary design change processing]
FIG. 48 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of the effect symbol variation pre-processing. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along the example of a procedure.

  Step S600: The effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not a demonstration effect command is received from the main control CPU 72. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and confirms whether or not a demonstration effect command is stored. As a result, when it is confirmed that the command for demonstration effect is stored (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S602.

  Step S602: The effect control CPU 126 executes a demo selection process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects a demonstration effect pattern. The demonstration effect pattern defines the contents of the effect indicating that the pachinko machine 1 is in a so-called customer waiting state. The effect control CPU 126 checks whether or not a predetermined time (for example, about 40 seconds) has elapsed since receiving the demonstration effect command, and executes the demo selection process only when the predetermined time has elapsed. It may be.

  When the above procedure is completed, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the last address of the effect symbol management process. Then, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect control process as it is, and controls the contents of the demonstration effect based on the demonstration effect pattern in the subsequent display output process (step S404 in FIG. 46) and lamp driving process (step S406 in FIG. 46). To do.

  On the other hand, if it is confirmed in step S600 that the demonstration effect command is not stored (No), the effect control CPU 126 next executes step S604.

  Step S604: The effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the current fluctuation is out of place (non-winning). Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and confirms whether or not a lottery result command at the time of non-winning is stored. As a result, when it is confirmed that the lottery result command at the time of non-winning is saved (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S608. On the other hand, when it is confirmed that the lottery result command at the time of non-winning is not saved (No), since it corresponds to the winning, the effect control CPU 126 executes step S606. Note that whether or not the current variation is off can be confirmed based on a variation pattern command or a stop symbol command in addition to the lottery result command. In other words, if the current variation pattern command corresponds to the outlier normal variation or outlier reach variation, it can be determined that the current variation is outlier. Alternatively, if the current stop symbol command specifies a non-winning symbol, it can be determined that the current variation is out of sync.

  Step S606: In the case of winning, the effect control CPU 126 executes a big hit hour variation effect pattern selection process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 determines the effect pattern number at that time based on the variation pattern command (for example, “E0H00H” to “F0H7FH”) received from the main control CPU 72. The types of effect symbols determined here are those constituting the above “hit combination” (for example, “7”-“7”-“7”).

  On the other hand, in the case of non-winning, the following procedure is executed. That is, when the effect control CPU 126 confirms that there is a shift in step S604 (Yes), it next executes step S608.

  Step S608: The effect control CPU 126 executes a variation effect pattern selection process at the time of deviation. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 determines the effect pattern number at the time of deviation based on the variation pattern command (for example, “A0H00H” to “A6H7FH”) received from the main control CPU 72. The effect pattern numbers at the time of detachment are classified into “outlier normal fluctuation”, “outlier reach fluctuation”, and the like, and a fine reach fluctuation pattern is defined in “outlier reach fluctuation”. Note that which effect pattern number is selected by the effect control CPU 126 is determined by the variation pattern command transmitted from the main control CPU 72.

  When the effect pattern number at the time of detachment is selected, the effect control CPU 126 refers to an effect table (not shown), and the effect symbol change schedule corresponding to the change effect pattern number at that time (change time, presence / absence of reach, occurrence of reach) , Reach type and reach occurrence timing) and stop display mode (for example, “7”-“2”-“4”, etc.).

  When one of the processes in steps S606 and S608 described above is executed, the effect control CPU 126 next executes step S610.

  Step S610: The effect control CPU 126 executes a notice selection process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects the content of the notice effect to be executed during the current variable display effect by lottery. The content of the notice effect is determined based on, for example, the result of internal lottery (winning or non-winning) and the current internal state (normal state, high probability state, time reduction state). The notice effect is for notifying the player of the possibility that a reach state will occur during the variable display effect, or for notifying that there is a possibility that it will eventually be a big hit. Therefore, the selection ratio of the notice effect is set to be low at the time of non-winning, but the selection ratio of the notice effect is set to be relatively high to increase the player's expectation at the time of winning.

  When the above procedure is completed, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect symbol management process (end address). Thereby, in the subsequent effect symbol variation processing (step S504 in FIG. 47), the variation display effect and the result display effect are executed based on the actually selected variation effect pattern, and based on various notice effect patterns. The notice effect is executed.

[Special production management process]
FIG. 49 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the special effect management process. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along the example of a procedure.

  Step S800: The effect control CPU 126 determines whether or not the special effect pattern selection flag is ON. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the counter area of the RAM 130 and confirms whether or not the special effect pattern selection flag is ON. The reason for executing this confirmation processing is to avoid duplicate processing because the following processing has already been executed when the special effect pattern selection flag is ON.

  As a result, when it is confirmed that the special effect pattern selection flag is not ON (step S800: No), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S802. On the other hand, when it is confirmed that the special effect pattern selection flag is ON (step S800: Yes), the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect control process (FIG. 46).

  Step S802: The effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the final variation of the special symbol in the time shortening state has ended. As to whether or not the final variation of the special symbol in the time shortening state has ended, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and confirms the time shortening function operation frequency command, and the variation after the end of the big hit game This can be realized by counting the number of times, confirming the difference between them, and confirming that the stop display time end command has been received at the final variation of the special symbol.

  As a result, when it is confirmed that the final variation of the special symbol in the time shortening state has ended (step S802: Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S804. On the other hand, when it is confirmed that the final variation of the special symbol in the time shortening state has not ended (step S802: No), the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect control process (FIG. 46).

  Step S804: The effect control CPU 126 executes a special effect pattern selection process. Specifically, a process of selecting an effect pattern for executing a special effect (an effect that promotes left-handed) is executed (for example, (E) in FIG. 45).

Step S806: The effect control CPU 126 sets the special effect pattern selection flag stored in the counter area of the RAM 130 to ON. The special effect pattern selection flag is set to OFF when the special effect is actually executed.
When the above procedure is completed, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect control process (FIG. 46).

  The present invention can employ various modifications without being limited to the above-described embodiments. In one embodiment, an example in which no working memory is provided for a special symbol is given. However, the present invention can be applied to an embodiment in which working memory (four) is provided for a special symbol.

  In the above-described embodiment, the example of the gaming machine that advances the game by right-handed in the time shortening state has been described, but the present invention can also be applied to the gaming machine that advances the game by left-handed.

  The present invention can also be applied to a mode in which winning can be randomly made from the game area to the starting winning opening without guiding the game ball to the starting winning opening using the ball guiding unit 40.

  In addition, the structure of the pachinko machine 1 and the board surface configuration are preferable examples including those shown in the drawings, and it goes without saying that these can be appropriately modified.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Pachinko machine 8 Game board 8a Game area 20 Start gate 28 Variable start winning device 30 Variable winning device 33 Normal symbol display device 33a Normal symbol action memory lamp 34 Special symbol display device 40 Ball guidance unit 42 Dot matrix LED display 70 Main control Device 72 Main control CPU
74 ROM
76 RAM
124 Production control device 126 Production control CPU

Claims (6)

Lottery execution means for executing a predetermined lottery when a lottery opportunity occurs during the game;
When the predetermined lottery is executed, the symbol display means for stopping and displaying the symbol in a manner representing the lottery result of the predetermined lottery after the symbol is variably displayed over a predetermined fluctuation time triggered by this,
When the lottery result of the predetermined lottery corresponds to winning and the symbol is stopped and displayed in a predetermined winning manner by the symbol display means, a predetermined opening time from a closed state where entry is impossible Variable winning means for performing an opening / closing operation for returning to the closed state after changing to an open state in which a ball can be generated.
Detecting the winning by the variable winning means is invalid for the time after the variable winning means returns from the open state to the closed state until the variable winning means changes to the open state again. An invalid time setting means for setting an invalid time to be handled;
Within the range of the invalid time set by the invalid time setting means, after the variable winning means has returned from the open state to the closed state, it is a time that does not allow the symbol display means to start the next symbol variation. And a first effective time setting means for setting a first effective time that treats the detection of a ball entered by the variable winning means as valid even after the variable winning means has returned to the closed state,
After the first effective time set by the first effective time setting means has elapsed, the time is allowed to start the next symbol change by the symbol display means, and the variable winning means is in the closed state A game machine comprising: second effective time setting means for setting a second effective time that treats detection of a ball entered by the variable winning means as being effective even after returning to. In the gaming machine according to claim 1,
Based on a winning that occurred between the time when the variable winning means changes from the closed state to the opened state and the second effective time set by the second effective time setting means elapses. A gaming machine further comprising a privilege granting means for granting a privilege. In the gaming machine according to claim 1 or 2,
The variable winning means is
When changing from the closed state to the open state, a variable start winning device that generates the lottery trigger due to the occurrence of a prize, or when changing from the closed state to the open state, the variable start winning device is different. A gaming machine comprising a variable winning device for generating a winning. The gaming machine according to claim 3,
At least one of the variable start winning device and the variable winning device is:
A gaming machine comprising a movable piece that opens and closes in a horizontal direction with respect to a game board surface. In the gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4,
The first valid time setting means includes:
The first valid time is set when the variable winning means returns to the closed state from the open state,
The second effective time setting means includes
A gaming machine, wherein the second valid time is set continuously with the first valid time. The gaming machine according to claim 3 ,
The lottery execution means
As the predetermined drawing, internal lottery execution means for executing an internal lottery, and as the predetermined lottery, includes actuating lottery execution means for executing a different operating lottery and the internal lottery,
The symbol display means
When the internal lottery is executed, the special symbol display means for stopping and displaying the special symbol in a form representing the result of the internal lottery after the special symbol as the symbol is variably displayed over a predetermined variation time, and the operation When the lottery is executed, a normal symbol display means for stopping and displaying the normal symbol in a manner representing the result of the operation lottery after the normal symbol different from the special symbol as the symbol is variably displayed over a predetermined fluctuation time. Including
The variable start winning device is:
From the closed state where the occurrence of the lottery trigger for the internal lottery is impossible due to the fact that the normal symbol is stopped and displayed in a specific winning manner by the normal symbol display means, Performing an opening / closing operation to return to the closed state after changing to an open state in which a lottery opportunity can be generated,
A ball launching means for driving a game ball toward the first game area or the second game area formed on the game board surface;
A ball entry device capable of randomly flowing game balls flowing down the first game area;
A first special start winning opening that generates a lottery opportunity for the internal lottery by randomly entering game balls that have flowed into the pitching device;
The game ball that has flowed into the ball entry device is guided by the first mode that is easy to enter the first special start prize port, or is entered into the first special start prize port as compared with the first mode. A sorting operation means for performing any sorting operation of guiding in a second mode that is difficult to perform;
A start gate that generates a lottery opportunity for the operation lottery by randomly passing game balls flowing down the second game area;
Provided in the variable start winning device arranged in the second game area, and when the variable start winning device is in an open state, the game balls flowing down the second game area randomly enter the ball A second special start winning opening for generating a lottery opportunity for the internal lottery;
Wherein the special symbol is stopped and displayed in a particular winning manner by the special symbol display means, by using the variable winning device disposed in the second game region, and the special game execution means for executing a special game,
After the special game is completed by the special game execution means, the internal lottery is performed at least at a normal frequency until the number of post-special game changes corresponding to the number of display and stop displays of the special symbol reaches a specific number. Time shortening state transition means for shifting from the non-time shortening state in which the lottery trigger occurs to the time shortening state in which the lottery trigger of the internal lottery can be generated at a higher frequency than the non-time shortening state is further provided. A gaming machine characterized by that.