JP5922754B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine that can be controlled to a specific state advantageous to a player based on establishment of a predetermined condition.

  As a gaming machine, a game ball, which is a game medium, is launched into a game area by a launching device, and when a game ball wins a prize area such as a prize opening provided in the game area, a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out to the player. There is something to be done. Further, a variable display device capable of variably displaying the identification information (also referred to as “fluctuation”) is provided, and when the display result of the variable display of the identification information becomes a specific display result in the variable display device, the game state (game There is a machine configured to give a predetermined game value to a player (specifically, a state in which a gaming machine is controlled).

  The game value is the right that the state of the variable winning ball apparatus provided in the gaming area of the gaming machine becomes advantageous for a player who is easy to win, and the right for becoming advantageous for a player. In other words, or a condition for winning a prize ball is easily established.

  In a pachinko machine, a specific display mode determined in advance is derived and displayed as a display result of variable display of special symbols (identification information) that is started in the variable display device based on the winning of a game ball at the start winning opening. If this happens, a “big hit” will occur. The derived display is to finally stop and display a symbol (final stop symbol). When the big hit occurs, for example, the big winning opening is opened a predetermined number of times, and the game shifts to a big hit gaming state where the hit ball is easy to win. And in each open period, if there is a prize for a predetermined number (for example, 10) of the big prize opening, the big prize opening is closed. And the number of times of opening the special winning opening is fixed to a predetermined number (for example, 15 rounds). An opening time (for example, 29 seconds) is determined for each opening, and even if the number of winnings does not reach a predetermined number, the big winning opening is closed when the opening time elapses. Hereinafter, the opening period of each special winning opening may be referred to as a round. A game in a round may be referred to as a round game.

  In the variable display device, the symbols other than the symbol that becomes the final stop symbol (for example, the middle symbol in the left, middle, and right symbols) continue for a predetermined period of time and stop and shake in a state that matches the specific display result. It can be a big hit before the final result is displayed because it is moving, scaling, or deforming, or multiple symbols change synchronously with the same symbol, or the position of the displayed symbol is switched. An effect performed in a state where the sex is continued (hereinafter, these states are referred to as reach states) is referred to as reach effect. Further, the reach state and its state are referred to as a reach mode. Furthermore, variable display including reach production is called reach variable display. Then, when the display result of the symbol variably displayed on the variable display device is not a specific display result, it becomes “out of” and the variability display state ends. A player plays a game while enjoying how to generate a big hit.

  In addition, an effect of notifying that there is a high possibility that a big hit or reach (particularly super reach) will occur is called a notice effect. The reach effect is an effect in the state where the symbols other than the symbol that will be the final stop symbol are aligned, but the notice effect is an effect different from the reach effect, and the symbols other than the symbol that will be the final stop symbol will stop It can be executed before and naturally after the symbols other than the symbol that becomes the final stop symbol are stopped.

  As such a gaming machine, a plurality of characters are successively switched at a predetermined timing as a notice effect that is performed after the variable display device starts variable display of a symbol and until the display result of the variable display is derived and displayed. Preliminary effects that have different types of notice effects with different display timings for each step effect, and select and execute one step-up effect among the multiple types of step-up notice effects Has been proposed.

  In addition, for example, in the case where a step-up notice effect is executed by branching to a plurality of effects, a thing that makes it possible to easily recognize the expectation of a big hit with respect to the effect after the branch is proposed (for example, , See Patent Document 1).

JP 2009-261761 A

  In the pachinko gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, in one stage of the notice effect that changes the aspect of the effect in stages (for example, a button step effect that is an effect of one step during the step-up notice effect), When a player's action is detected (for example, an operation button is operated by a player), a notice effect (eg, a step-up notice effect) is advanced. However, the notice effect is merely executed depending on whether or not an operation is detected, and there is a problem that the interest cannot be sufficiently improved by the notice effect.

  Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that is not limited to executing a notice effect depending on whether or not an operation is detected, and can further enhance interest by the notice effect.

(1) A gaming machine according to the present invention is a gaming machine that can be controlled to a specific state (for example, a big hit gaming state) that is advantageous to a player based on the establishment of a predetermined condition, and is an operating means that can be operated by the player ( For example, the operation button 120) and the notice effect determining means (for example, the process of step S570) for determining to which stage the notice effect that changes the aspect of the effect from the first stage to a plurality of stages is executed. informational display and presentation control CPU 101), to said operating means during the term (e.g., the operation stage determined by the prediction effect determination means on the basis that is operated in the lifetime) of FIG. 49 (e.g. upper step) A notice effect executing means (for example, an effect control CPU 101 that executes processing such as step S843). Specific timing during the period (e.g., the third stage execution period of FIG. 49) when the said operating means after being operated, a mode of predetermined steps (e.g., the third step) th effect among a plurality of stages At least the stage of the stage (for example, the fourth stage) determined by the notice effect determining means is executed without executing, and the degree of expectation of the notice effect increases as the stage progresses.
According to such a structure, since the aspect of the notice effect performed according to the timing when the operation means was operated differs, the interest of the notice effect can be improved.

(2) In the gaming machine of the above (1), the notice effect executing means executes the effect aspect up to a predetermined stage (for example, the second stage), and when detected by the detecting means. If the stage of the stage after the prescribed stage (for example, the third stage or the fourth stage) is performed, and the detection means remains undetected, the stage of the stage after the prescribed stage is performed. It may be configured not to execute.
According to such a configuration, the mode of the notice effect does not change unless it is detected by the detecting means, so that the player's willingness to participate in the game can be improved.

(3) In the above gaming machine of (1) or (2), the notice effect execution means is detected by the detection means after a predetermined timing (for example, after 7 seconds in FIG. 49) during the effective period. Alternatively, a special effect (for example, a premier effect) may be executed at a higher rate than that detected by the detection means before the predetermined timing.
According to such a configuration, an effect corresponding to the timing detected by the detecting means is executed, so that the interest of the notice effect can be improved.

(4) In the above gaming machines (1) to (3), effective period effect executing means for executing an effective period effect indicating that the detection means is detected during the effective period (for example, the processing of step S851 is executed) The effective period effect executing means ends the effective period effect a predetermined time (for example, 0.2 seconds before) before the effective period (for example, 3 seconds) ends. It may be configured.
According to such a configuration, when an operation is performed at the timing when the effective period effect ends, it is possible to prevent a misunderstanding that there is no response to the operation performed during the effective period.

(5) In the above gaming machines (1) to (4), variable display means for variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information (for example, special symbols and decorative symbols) that can identify each of them and deriving and displaying the display results When a specific display result (for example, a special symbol that becomes a big hit symbol or a finalized combination symbol of a big hit combination) is derived and displayed on (for example, the first and second special symbol display devices 4A, 4B, the image display device 5, etc.) A gaming machine that controls a specific gaming state advantageous to a player, and determines whether or not to control to the specific gaming state before the display result is derived and displayed on the variable display means (for example, CPU 103 that executes the processes of steps S240, S269, and S271), and the notice effect executing means follows a predetermined order based on the determination result of the prior determination means. A step-up notice effect capable of executing a notice effect that changes the aspect of the effect in stages from one stage to a plurality of stages is executed. The step-up notice effect includes the first step-up notice effect and the first step-up notice. A second step-up notice effect different from the effect, and the notice effect execution means is the same period during which the first step-up notice effect and the second step-up notice effect are variably displayed as the step-up notice effect. The first step-up notice effect and the second step-up notice effect are changed stepwise up to a predetermined stage (for example, the second stage), and then any step up is performed. A notice effect is selected and displayed (for example, the process of step S854 is executed), and the step-up notice effect that is selected and displayed is displayed. Variable display of the display results in a line to perform indication that the said specific display results.
According to such a configuration, since the development of a plurality of step-up notice effects can be shown, the interest of the step-up notice effects can be improved.

It is the front view which looked at the pachinko game machine from the front. It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structural example of a game control board (main board). It is a block diagram showing an example of circuit configuration of an effect control board, a lamp driver board and an audio output board. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example of operation | movement of a movable member. It is a flowchart which shows the main process which CPU in the microcomputer for game control performs. It is a flowchart which shows a 2 ms timer interruption process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the quasi-continuous chance eyes. It is explanatory drawing which shows the variation pattern of the decoration design prepared beforehand. It is explanatory drawing which shows each random number. It is explanatory drawing which shows a big hit determination table and a small hit determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows the big hit classification determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows the type of jackpot and the game state after a jackpot game. It is explanatory drawing which shows a fluctuation pattern determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the content of an effect control command. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows a starting port switch passage process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of a pending | holding storage specific information storage area (holding specific area). It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol normal process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol normal process. It is a flowchart which shows a fluctuation pattern setting process. It is a flowchart which shows a display result specific command transmission process. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol change process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol stop process. It is a flowchart which shows the big winning opening opening pre-processing. It is a flowchart which shows a big winning opening open process. It is a flowchart which shows a big winning opening open process. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit end process. It is a flowchart which shows the presentation control main process which CPU for presentation control performs. It is a flowchart which shows a command analysis process. It is a flowchart which shows a command analysis process. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the aspect of the variable display of a decoration design. It is explanatory drawing which shows the random number which the microcomputer for production control uses. It is a flowchart which shows production control process processing. It is a flowchart which shows fluctuation pattern command reception waiting processing It is a flowchart which shows an effect design fluctuation start process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of process data. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the production | presentation performed according to the content of a process table. It is a flowchart which shows a notification effect setting process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of a notice effect determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of a notice effect addition determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows an additional notice production | presentation determination table. It is a flowchart which shows the process during effect design change. It is a flowchart which shows the process during effect design change. It is a flowchart which shows the process during effect design change. It is a flowchart which shows an effect design fluctuation stop process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example of the notice effect which multiple types of step-up notice is performed simultaneously and either one is selectively displayed based on operation. It is a flowchart which shows the process during effect design change. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example of the notification effect by which the step-up notification of multiple types is performed simultaneously, and the aspect of the effect of a predetermined step is skipped according to operation timing. It is a timing diagram showing the operation timing of the notice effect. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of the expectation degree which a step-up notice suggests.

Embodiment 1. FIG.
Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. First, the overall configuration of a pachinko gaming machine 1 that is an example of a gaming machine will be described. FIG. 1 is a front view of the pachinko gaming machine 1 as seen from the front.

  The pachinko gaming machine 1 includes an outer frame (not shown) formed in a vertically long rectangular shape, and a game frame attached to the inside of the outer frame so as to be opened and closed. Further, the pachinko gaming machine 1 has a glass door frame 2 formed in a frame shape that is provided in the game frame so as to be opened and closed. The game frame includes a front frame (not shown) that can be opened and closed with respect to the outer frame, a mechanism plate (not shown) to which mechanism parts and the like are attached, and various parts (games to be described later) attached to them. A structure including the board 6).

  On the lower surface of the glass door frame 2 is a hitting ball supply tray (upper plate) 3. Under the hitting ball supply tray 3, there are provided a surplus ball receiving tray 4 for storing game balls that cannot be accommodated in the hitting ball supply tray 3, and a hitting operation handle (operation knob) 5 for firing the hitting ball. A game board 6 is detachably attached to the back surface of the glass door frame 2. The game board 6 is a structure including a plate-like body constituting the game board 6 and various components attached to the plate-like body. In addition, a game area 7 is formed on the front surface of the game board 6 in which a game ball that has been struck can flow down.

  An effect display device 9 composed of a liquid crystal display device (LCD) is provided near the center of the game area 7. The circular display screen of the effect display device 9 includes an effect symbol display area for performing variable display of the effect symbol in synchronization with the variable display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol. Therefore, the effect display device 9 corresponds to a variable display device that performs variable display of effect symbols. The effect symbol display area includes a symbol display area for variably displaying, for example, three decorative (effect) effect symbols of “left”, “middle”, and “right”. The symbol display area includes “left”, “middle”, and “right” symbol display areas (see symbol display areas 9L, 9C, and 9R). The position of the symbol display area is displayed on the effect display device 9. The screen may not be fixed, and the three areas of the symbol display area may be separated. The effect display device 9 is controlled by an effect control microcomputer mounted on the effect control board. When the first special symbol display 8a is executing variable display of the first special symbol, the effect control microcomputer causes the effect display device 9 to execute the effect display along with the variable display, and the second special symbol display 8a executes the second special display. When the variable display of the second special symbol is executed on the symbol display 8b, the effect display is executed by the effect display device 9 along with the variable display, so that the progress of the game can be easily grasped. .

  On the left side of the lower part of the game board 6, a first special symbol display (first variable display portion) 8a for variably displaying the first special symbol as identification information is provided. In this embodiment, the first special symbol display 8a is realized by a simple and small display (for example, 7 segment LED) capable of variably displaying numbers 0 to 9. In other words, the first special symbol display 8a is configured to variably display numbers (or symbols) from 0 to 9. On the lower right side of the game board 6, a second special symbol display (second variable display portion) 8b for variably displaying the second special symbol as identification information is provided. The second special symbol display 8b is realized by a simple and small display (for example, 7 segment LED) capable of variably displaying numbers 0 to 9. That is, the second special symbol display 8b is configured to variably display numbers (or symbols) from 0 to 9.

  The small display is formed in, for example, a square shape. In this embodiment, the type of the first special symbol and the type of the second special symbol are the same (for example, both 0 to 9), but the types may be different. Further, the first special symbol display 8a and the second special symbol display 8b may be configured to variably display numbers (or two-digit symbols) of, for example, 00 to 99, for example.

  Hereinafter, the first special symbol and the second special symbol may be collectively referred to as a special symbol, and the first special symbol indicator 8a and the second special symbol indicator 8b are collectively referred to as a special symbol indicator (variable display unit). There are things to do.

  For the variable display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol, the first start condition or the second start condition, which is the variable display execution condition, is satisfied (for example, the game ball has the first start winning opening 13 or the second start winning opening) 14), a variable display start condition (for example, when the number of reserved memories is not 0 and the variable display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol is not executed) , A state where the big hit game is not executed) is established, and when the variable display time elapses, a display result (stop symbol) is derived and displayed. Note that winning means that a game ball has passed through a predetermined area such as a winning opening. Deriving and displaying a display result is to stop and display a symbol (an example of identification information) (excluding stop before so-called re-variation). In this embodiment, the variable display start condition is established in the order in which the start prizes are generated regardless of the prizes in the first start prize slot 13 and the second start prize slot 14. The variable display start condition may be established by giving priority to one of winning in the winning opening 13 and winning in the second start winning opening 14. For example, when giving priority to winning in the first start winning opening 13, the variable display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol is not executed, and the big hit game is not executed. For example, even when the second reserved memory number is not zero, the variable display of the first special symbol is continuously executed until the first reserved memory number becomes zero.

  In the vicinity of the first special symbol display 8a, during the variable display time of the first special symbol by the first special symbol display 8a, the variable display of the first decorative symbol as a decorative (design) symbol is performed. A first decorative symbol display 9a is provided. In this embodiment, the first decorative symbol display 9a is composed of two LEDs. The first decorative symbol display 9a is controlled by an effect control microcomputer mounted on the effect control board. Further, in the vicinity of the second special symbol display 8b, during the variable display time of the second special symbol by the second special symbol display 8b, the variable display of the second decorative symbol as a symbol for decoration (production) is performed. There is provided a second decorative symbol display 9b. The second decorative symbol display 9b is composed of two LEDs. The second decorative symbol display 9b is controlled by an effect control microcomputer mounted on the effect control board.

  The first decorative symbol and the second decorative symbol may be collectively referred to as a decorative symbol, and the first decorative symbol display 9a and the second decorative symbol display 9b may be collectively referred to as a decorative symbol display. .

  The variation of the decorative pattern (variable display) is realized by continuing the state where the two LEDs are alternately lit. The variable display of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display 8a and the variable display of the first decorative symbol on the first decorative symbol display 9a are synchronized. The variable display of the second special symbol on the second special symbol display 8b is synchronized with the variable display of the second decorative symbol on the second decorative symbol display 9b. Synchronous means that the variable display start time and end time are the same, and the variable display period is the same. In addition, when the big hit symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a, the LED on the side that recalls the big hit on the first decorative symbol display 9a remains lit. When the big-hit symbol is stopped and displayed on the second special symbol display 8b, the LED on the side that recalls the big-hit on the second decorative symbol display 9b remains lit. The functions of the first decorative symbol display 9a and the second decorative symbol display 9b may be realized by the effect display device 9. That is, the first decorative symbol and the second decorative symbol may be controlled to be variably displayed as images on the display screen of the effect display device 9.

  A winning device having a first start winning port 13 is provided below the effect display device 9. The game ball won in the first start winning opening 13 is guided to the back of the game board 6 and detected by the first start opening switch 13a.

  A variable winning ball device 15 having a second starting winning port 14 through which a game ball can be won is provided below a winning device having a first starting winning port (first starting port) 13. The game ball that has won the second start winning opening (second start opening) 14 is guided to the back of the game board 6 and detected by the second start opening switch 14a. The variable winning ball device 15 is opened by a solenoid 16. When the variable winning ball device 15 is in the open state, the game ball can be awarded to the second starting winning port 14 (it is easier to start winning), which is advantageous for the player. In the state where the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is in the open state, it is easier for the game ball to win the second start winning opening 14 than the first starting winning opening 13. In addition, in a state where the variable winning ball device 15 is in the closed state, the game ball does not win the second start winning opening 14. Therefore, in a state where the variable winning ball device 15 is in the closed state, it is easier for the game ball to win the first starting winning port 13 than the second starting winning port 14. In the state where the variable winning ball device 15 is in the closed state, it may be configured so that it is difficult to win, but it is possible to win (that is, the game ball is difficult to win).

  Hereinafter, the first start winning opening 13 and the second start winning opening 14 may be collectively referred to as a start winning opening or a starting opening.

  When the variable winning ball device 15 is controlled to be in the open state, the game ball heading for the variable winning ball device 15 is very likely to win the second start winning port 14. The first start winning opening 13 is provided directly under the effect display device 9, but the interval between the lower end of the effect display device 9 and the first start winning opening 13 is further reduced, or the first start winning opening is set. The nail arrangement around the first start winning opening 13 is made difficult to guide the game balls to the first starting winning opening 13 so that the winning rate of the second starting winning opening 14 is increased. It is also possible to make the direction higher than the winning rate of the first start winning opening 13.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, the variable winning ball apparatus 15 that opens and closes only the second start winning opening 14 is provided. Any of the start winning ports 14 may be provided with a variable winning ball device that performs an opening / closing operation.

  On the side of the first decorative symbol display 9a, the number of effective winning balls that have entered the first start winning opening 13, that is, the first reserved memory number (the reserved memory is also referred to as the start memory or the start prize memory) is displayed. A first special symbol storage memory display 18a comprising four displays is provided. The first special symbol storage memory indicator 18a increases the number of indicators to be lit by 1 each time there is an effective start winning. Then, each time the variable display on the first special symbol display 8a is started, the number of indicators to be turned on is reduced by one.

  On the side of the second decorative symbol display 9b is a second special symbol reserved memory display 18b comprising four indicators for displaying the number of effective winning balls that have entered the second start winning opening 14, that is, the second reserved memory number. Is provided. The second special symbol storage memory display 18b increases the number of indicators to be lit by 1 every time there is an effective start winning. Then, each time the variable display on the second special symbol display 8b is started, the number of indicators to be turned on is reduced by one.

  In addition, the display screen of the effect display device 9 displays an area (hereinafter referred to as a summed pending storage display unit 18c) that displays a total number (total number of pending pending memories) that is the sum of the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory number. .) Is provided. Since the summation pending storage display unit 18c for displaying the total number is provided, it is possible to easily grasp the total number of execution conditions that have not met the variable display start condition. In addition, since the 1st special symbol holding | maintenance memory | storage display 18a and the 2nd special symbol holding | maintenance memory | storage display 18b are provided, the total reservation memory | storage display part 18c does not necessarily need to be provided.

  The effect display device 9 is for decoration (for effects) during the variable display time of the first special symbol by the first special symbol display 8a and during the variable display time of the second special symbol by the second special symbol display 8b. A variable display of the effect symbol as the symbol is performed. The variable display of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display 8a and the variable display of the effect symbol on the effect display device 9 are synchronized. Further, the variable display of the second special symbol on the second special symbol display 8b and the variable display of the effect symbol on the effect display device 9 are synchronized. In addition, when the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a and when the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed on the second special symbol display 8b, the effect display device 9 causes the jackpot to be recalled. The combination of is stopped.

  On the left side of the decorative portion around the effect display device 9, a movable member 78 that is attached to the rotation shaft of the motor 86 and moves when the motor 86 rotates is provided. In this embodiment, the movable member 78 operates when a pseudo-series effect or a notice effect (movable object notice effect) is executed. Further, in the decorative portion around the effect display device 9, a blade-shaped movable member (hereinafter referred to as an effect blade accessory) that is attached to the rotating shaft of the motor 87 and moves when the motor 87 rotates is provided below the left and right. 79a and 79b are provided. In this embodiment, the production blade actors 79a and 79b operate when a notice production (production blade production notice production) is executed.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 1, a special variable winning ball device 20 is provided below the variable winning ball device 15. The special variable winning ball apparatus 20 includes an opening / closing plate, and when the specific display result (big hit symbol) is derived and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a, and the specific display result (big hit symbol) on the second special symbol display 8b. When the open / close plate is controlled to be open by the solenoid 21 in the specific game state (big hit game state) that occurs when the symbol is derived and displayed, the big winning opening serving as the winning area is opened. The game ball that has won the big winning opening is detected by the count switch 23.

  The game area 6 is also provided with winning ports (ordinary winning ports) 29, 30, 33, and 39 for paying out a predetermined number of premium game balls determined in advance based on winning of the game balls. The game balls won in the winning openings 29, 30, 33, 39 are detected by the winning opening switches 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a.

  A normal symbol display 10 is provided on the right side of the game board 6. The normal symbol display 10 variably displays a plurality of types of identification information (for example, “◯” and “x”) called normal symbols.

  When the game ball passes through the gate 32 and is detected by the gate switch 32a, the variable display of the normal symbol display 10 is started. In this embodiment, variable display is performed by alternately lighting the upper and lower lamps (the symbols can be visually recognized when turned on). For example, if the lower lamp is turned on at the end of the variable display, it is a hit. . When the stop symbol on the normal symbol display 10 is a predetermined symbol (winning symbol), the variable winning ball device 15 is opened for a predetermined number of times. In other words, the state of the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is a state that is advantageous from a disadvantageous state for the player when the normal symbol is a stop symbol (a state in which a game ball can be awarded at the second start winning port 14). To change. In the vicinity of the normal symbol display 10, a normal symbol holding storage display 41 having a display unit with four LEDs for displaying the number of winning balls that have passed through the gate 32 is provided. Each time there is a game ball passing through the gate 32, that is, every time a game ball is detected by the gate switch 32a, the normal symbol storage memory display 41 increases the number of LEDs to be turned on by one. Each time variable display on the normal symbol display 10 is started, the number of LEDs to be lit is reduced by one. Further, in the probability variation state in which the probability of being determined to be a big hit compared to the normal state is high, the probability that the stop symbol in the normal symbol display 10 becomes a winning symbol is increased, and the variable winning ball apparatus 15 Opening time and opening times are increased. Even in the short state (the game state in which the variable display time of the special symbol is shortened) when the symbol variation time is shortened although it is not the probability variation state, the opening time and the number of times of opening of the variable winning ball device 15 are increased.

  On the left and right sides of the game area 7 of the game board 6, there are provided decorative LEDs 25 that are displayed blinking during the game, and at the lower part there is an outlet 26 for taking in a hit ball that has not won. In addition, two speakers 27 that utter sound effects and sounds as predetermined sound outputs are provided on the left and right upper portions outside the game area 7. On the outer periphery of the game area 7, a frame LED 28 provided on the front frame is provided.

  The members constituting the hitting ball supply tray 3 are provided with operation buttons 120 as operation means that can be operated by the player. The operation button 120 is provided with a push button switch that can be pressed by the player. The operation button 120 is provided not only with a push button switch that can be pressed by the player, but also with a dial that can be rotated by the player. The player can perform a predetermined selection (for example, selection of effects) by rotating the dial.

  In the gaming machine, a ball striking device (not shown) that drives a driving motor in response to a player operating the batting operation handle 5 and uses the rotational force of the driving motor to launch a gaming ball to the gaming area 7. ) Is provided. A game ball launched from the ball striking device enters the game area 7 through a ball striking rail formed in a circular shape so as to surround the game area 7, and then descends the game area 7. When the game ball enters the first start winning opening 13 and is detected by the first start opening switch 13a, if the variable display of the first special symbol can be started (for example, the variable display of the special symbol ends, 1), the variable display (variation) of the first special symbol is started on the first special symbol display 8a, and the variable display of the first decorative symbol is displayed on the first decorative symbol display 9a. The effect display device 9 starts variable display of effect symbols. In other words, the variable display of the first special symbol, the first decorative symbol, and the effect symbol corresponds to winning in the first start winning opening 13. If the variable display of the first special symbol cannot be started, the first reserved memory number is increased by 1 on the condition that the first reserved memory number has not reached the upper limit value.

  When the game ball enters the second start winning opening 14 and is detected by the second start opening switch 14a, if the variable display of the second special symbol can be started (for example, the special symbol variable display ends, 2), the second special symbol display 8b starts variable display (variation) of the second special symbol, and the second decorative symbol display 9b displays variable display of the second decorative symbol. The effect display device 9 starts variable display of effect symbols. That is, the variable display of the second special symbol, the second decorative symbol, and the effect symbol corresponds to winning in the second start winning opening 14. If the variable display of the second special symbol cannot be started, the second reserved memory number is increased by 1 on condition that the second reserved memory number has not reached the upper limit value.

  In this embodiment, when it is informed that it is a probable big hit or a probable promotion effect (a special effect indicating promotion to a probable state), the gaming state is shifted to a high probability state. At the same time, the game ball is controlled to be in a high base state that is controlled so as to make it easier for the game ball to start and win (that is, the execution conditions for variable display in the special symbol indicators 8a and 8b and the effect display device 9 are easily established). Transition. In addition, when the gaming state is shifted to the short time state, the state is shifted to the high base state. In the high base state, for example, the frequency at which the variable winning ball device 15 is in the open state is increased or the time in which the variable winning ball device 15 is in the open state is extended compared to the case in which the high base state is not in the high base state. It becomes easier to win a start.

  Instead of extending the time during which the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is in the open state (also referred to as the open extended state), the normal symbol display unit 10 shifts to a normal symbol probability changing state in which the probability that the stop symbol in the normal symbol display unit 10 will be a hit symbol is increased. Depending on the situation, the high base state may be entered. When the stop symbol in the normal symbol display 10 becomes a predetermined symbol (winning symbol), the variable winning ball device 15 is opened for a predetermined number of times. In this case, by performing the transition control to the normal symbol probability changing state, the probability that the stop symbol in the normal symbol display 10 becomes a winning symbol is increased, and the frequency at which the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is opened is increased. Therefore, if the normal symbol probability changing state is entered, the opening time and the number of opening times of the variable winning ball device 15 are increased, and a state where it is easy to start a winning (high base state) is achieved. That is, the opening time and the number of times of opening of the variable winning ball device 15 can be increased when the stop symbol of the normal symbol is a winning symbol or the stop symbol of the special symbol is a probabilistic symbol. It changes to an advantageous state (a state where it is easy to win a start). It should be noted that increasing the number of times of opening is a concept including changing from a closed state to an open state.

  Moreover, you may transfer to a high base state by shifting to the normal symbol time short state where the fluctuation time (variable display period) of the normal symbol in the normal symbol display 10 is shortened. In the normal symbol short-time state, the variation time of the normal symbol is shortened, so that the frequency of starting the variation of the normal symbol increases, and as a result, the frequency of hitting the normal symbol increases. Therefore, when the frequency that the normal symbol is hit increases, the frequency that the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is opened is increased, and the start winning state is easily set (high base state).

  In addition, the change time of special symbols and production symbols will be shortened by shifting to the short time state when the variation time (variable display period) of special symbols and production symbols is shortened. (In other words, the digestion of the stored memory becomes faster), and as a result, it is easier to start a winning and the possibility of playing a big hit game is increased.

  Furthermore, by making transitions to all the states shown above (open extended state, normal symbol probability change state, normal symbol short time state, and special symbol short time state), it will be easier to win a start (shift to a high base state). May be. In addition, it is easier to win a start (high base) by shifting to any one of the above states (open extended state, normal symbol probability changing state, normal symbol short time state, and special symbol short time state). Transition to a state).

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the circuit configuration of the main board (game control board) 31. FIG. 2 also shows a payout control board 37, an effect control board 80, and the like. A game control microcomputer (corresponding to a game control means) 560 for controlling the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to a program is mounted on the main board 31. The game control microcomputer 560 includes a ROM 54 for storing a game control (game progress control) program and the like, a RAM 55 as storage means used as a work memory, a CPU 56 for performing control operations in accordance with the program, and an I / O port unit 57. including. In this embodiment, the ROM 54 and the RAM 55 are built in the game control microcomputer 560. That is, the game control microcomputer 560 is a one-chip microcomputer. The one-chip microcomputer only needs to incorporate at least the CPU 56 and the RAM 55, and the ROM 54 may be external or built-in. The I / O port unit 57 may be externally attached. The game control microcomputer 560 further includes a random number circuit 503 that generates hardware random numbers (random numbers generated by the hardware circuit).

  The RAM 55 is a backup RAM as a non-volatile storage means, part or all of which is backed up by a backup power source created on the power supply substrate 910. That is, even if the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, a part or all of the contents of the RAM 55 is stored for a predetermined period (until the capacitor as the backup power supply is discharged and the backup power supply cannot be supplied). In particular, at least data (a special symbol process flag or the like) corresponding to the game state, that is, the control state of the game control means, and data indicating the number of unpaid winning balls are stored in the backup RAM. The data corresponding to the control state of the game control means is data necessary for restoring the control state before the occurrence of a power failure or the like based on the data when the power is restored after a power failure or the like occurs. Further, data corresponding to the control state and data indicating the number of unpaid prize balls are defined as data indicating the progress state of the game. In this embodiment, it is assumed that the entire RAM 55 is backed up.

  In the game control microcomputer 560, the CPU 56 executes control in accordance with the program stored in the ROM 54, so that the game control microcomputer 560 (or CPU 56) executes (or performs processing) hereinafter. Specifically, the CPU 56 executes control according to a program. The same applies to microcomputers mounted on substrates other than the main substrate 31.

  The random number circuit 503 is a hardware circuit that is used to generate a random number for determination to determine whether or not to win a jackpot based on a display result of variable symbol special display. The random number circuit 503 updates numerical data in accordance with a set update rule within a numerical range in which an initial value (for example, 0) and an upper limit value (for example, 65535) are set, and starts at a random timing Based on the fact that the winning time is the reading (extraction) of the numerical data, it has a random number generation function in which the numerical data to be read becomes a random value.

  The random number circuit 503 is configured to select a numeric data update range selection setting function (initial value selection setting function and upper limit selection selection function), numeric data update rule selection setting function, and numeric data update rule selection. It has various functions such as a switching function. With such a function, the randomness of the generated random numbers can be improved.

  Further, the game control microcomputer 560 has a function of setting an initial value of numerical data updated by the random number circuit 503. For example, a predetermined calculation is performed using the ID number of the game control microcomputer 560 stored in a predetermined storage area such as the ROM 54 (an ID number assigned with a different value for each product of the game control microcomputer 560). The numerical data obtained by the execution is set as the initial value of the numerical data updated by the random number circuit 503. By performing such processing, the randomness of the random number generated by the random number circuit 503 can be further improved.

  Further, an input driver circuit 58 for supplying detection signals from the gate switch 32a, the start port switch 13a, the count switch 23, and the winning port switches 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a to the game control microcomputer 560 is also mounted on the main board 31. Yes. The main board also includes an output circuit 59 for driving the solenoid 16 for opening and closing the variable winning ball device 15 and the solenoid 21 for opening and closing the special variable winning ball device 20 that forms a big winning opening in accordance with a command from the game control microcomputer 560. 31.

  In addition, the game control microcomputer 560 includes a first special symbol display 8a, a second special symbol display 8b that variably displays special symbols, a normal symbol display 10 that variably displays normal symbols, and a first special symbol hold memory. Display control of the display 18a, the second special symbol storage memory display 18b, and the normal symbol storage memory display 41 is performed.

  An information output circuit (not shown) that outputs an information output signal such as jackpot information indicating the occurrence of a jackpot gaming state to an external device such as a hall computer is also mounted on the main board 31.

  In this embodiment, the effect control means (configured by the effect control microcomputer) mounted on the effect control board 80 instructs the effect contents from the game control microcomputer 560 via the relay board 77. Upon receiving the effect control command, display control is performed on the first decorative symbol display device 9a and the second decorative symbol display device 9b that variably display the decorative symbol, and the effect display device 9 that variably displays the effect symbol.

  The effect control means mounted on the effect control board 80 controls the display of the decoration LED 25 provided on the game board and the frame LED 28 provided on the frame side via the lamp driver board 35. The sound output from the speaker 27 is controlled via the sound output board 70.

  FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a circuit configuration example of the relay board 77, the effect control board 80, the lamp driver board 35, and the audio output board 70. In the example shown in FIG. 3, the lamp driver board 35 and the audio output board 70 are not equipped with a microcomputer, but may be equipped with a microcomputer. Further, without providing the lamp driver board 35 and the audio output board 70, only the effect control board 80 may be provided for effect control.

  The effect control board 80 includes an effect control CPU 101 and an effect control microcomputer 100 including a RAM for storing information related to effects such as effect symbol process flags. The RAM may be externally attached. In this embodiment, the RAM in the production control microcomputer 100 is not backed up. In the effect control board 80, the effect control CPU 101 operates in accordance with a program stored in a built-in or external ROM (not shown), and receives a capture signal from the main board 31 input via the relay board 77 ( In response to the (effect control INT signal), an effect control command is received via the input driver 102 and the input port 103. Further, the effect control CPU 101 causes the VDP (video display processor) 109 to perform display control of the effect display device 9 based on the effect control command.

  In this embodiment, a VDP 109 that performs display control of the effect display device 9 in cooperation with the effect control microcomputer 100 is mounted on the effect control board 80. The VDP 109 has an address space independent of the production control microcomputer 100, and maps a VRAM therein. VRAM is a buffer memory for developing image data. Then, the VDP 109 outputs the image data in the VRAM to the effect display device 9 via the frame memory.

  The effect control CPU 101 outputs to the VDP 109 a command for reading out necessary data from a CGROM (not shown) in accordance with the received effect control command. The CGROM stores character image data and moving image data displayed on the effect display device 9, specifically, a person, characters, figures, symbols (including effect symbols), and background image data in advance. ROM. The VDP 109 reads image data from the CGROM in response to the instruction from the effect control CPU 101. The VDP 109 executes display control based on the read image data.

  The effect control command and the effect control INT signal are first input to the input driver 102 on the effect control board 80. The input driver 102 passes the signal input from the relay board 77 only in the direction toward the inside of the effect control board 80 (does not pass the signal in the direction from the inside of the effect control board 80 to the relay board 77). It is also a unidirectional circuit as a regulating means.

  As a signal direction regulating means, the signal inputted from the main board 31 is allowed to pass through the relay board 77 only in the direction toward the effect control board 80 (the signal is not passed in the direction from the effect control board 80 to the relay board 77). The unidirectional circuit 74 is mounted. For example, a diode or a transistor is used as the unidirectional circuit. FIG. 3 illustrates a diode. A unidirectional circuit is provided for each signal. Furthermore, since the effect control command and the effect control INT signal are output from the main board 31 via the output port 571 that is a unidirectional circuit, the signal from the relay board 77 toward the inside of the main board 31 is restricted. That is, the signal from the relay board 77 does not enter the inside of the main board 31 (the game control microcomputer 560 side). The output port 571 is a part of the I / O port unit 57 shown in FIG. Further, a signal driver circuit that is a unidirectional circuit may be further provided outside the output port 571 (on the relay board 77 side).

  The effect control CPU 101 drives the motor 86 to operate the movable member 78 via the output port 106. Further, the effect control CPU 101 drives a motor 87 for operating the effect blades 79 a and 79 b via the output port 106.

  Further, the effect control CPU 101 inputs a signal from the operation button 120 via the input port 107 in response to a pressing operation of the operation button 120 by the player.

  Further, the effect control CPU 101 outputs a signal for driving the LED to the lamp driver board 35 via the output port 105. Further, the production control CPU 101 outputs sound number data to the audio output board 70 via the output port 104.

  In the lamp driver board 35, a signal for driving the LED is input to the LED driver 352 via the input driver 351. The LED driver 352 supplies a current to a light emitter provided on the frame side such as the frame LED 28 based on a signal for driving the LED. Further, an electric current is supplied to the decoration LED 25 provided on the game board side.

  In the voice output board 70, the sound number data is input to the voice synthesis IC 703 via the input driver 702. The voice synthesizing IC 703 generates voice or sound effect according to the sound number data, and outputs it to the amplifier circuit 705. The amplification circuit 705 outputs an audio signal obtained by amplifying the output level of the speech synthesis IC 703 to a level corresponding to the volume set by the volume 706 to the speaker 27. The voice data ROM 704 stores control data corresponding to the sound number data. The control data corresponding to the sound number data is a collection of data showing the output form of the sound effect or sound in a time series in a predetermined period (for example, the changing period of the effect design).

  FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of the operation of the movable member. In the example shown in FIG. 4, the operation of the movable member 78 when the re-change effect (pseudo-continuous effect) in the effect display device 9 is executed is shown. In the re-change effect, the change of the effect symbol is executed for a predetermined period after the change of the effect symbol is started from the state shown in FIG. 4A (the state in which the left, middle, and right effect symbols are stopped) (FIG. 4). (Refer to (B) and (C)), when the predetermined period elapses, the left, middle and right effect symbols are temporarily stopped (see FIG. 4D). When the predetermined temporary stop period elapses, the left middle right effect symbol re-varies (see FIG. 4E), and when the predetermined re-variation period elapses, the left middle right effect symbol is finally stopped (confirmed). (See FIG. 4F). In the example shown in FIG. 4, the movable member 78 operates (operates so as to return to the original position (outside the display screen) after entering the display screen of the effect display device 9) during the first variation period, and the first variation occurs. The movable member 78 also operates during the subsequent re-variation period. In addition, the example shown in FIG. 4 is an example when one temporary stop is performed. Then, after the reach effect is executed, the left, middle, and right effect symbols are finally stopped (confirmed). Here, it has been described that reach is reached when the re-variation effect ends, but when the re-change effect ends, the effect symbol may not be reached but may finally stop.

  Next, the operation of the gaming machine will be described. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing main processing executed by the game control microcomputer 560 on the main board 31. When power is supplied to the gaming machine and power supply is started, the input level of the reset terminal to which the reset signal is input becomes high level, and the gaming control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) After executing a security check process, which is a process for confirming whether the contents of the program are valid, the main process after step S1 is started. In the main process, the CPU 56 first performs necessary initial settings.

  In the initial setting process, the CPU 56 first sets the interrupt prohibition (step S1). Next, the interrupt mode is set to interrupt mode 2 (step S2), and a stack pointer designation address is set to the stack pointer (step S3). Then, after initialization of the built-in device (CTC (counter / timer) and PIO (parallel input / output port) which are built-in devices (built-in peripheral circuits)) is performed (step S4), the RAM 55 is accessible. (Step S5). In the interrupt mode 2, the address synthesized from the value (1 byte) of the specific register (I register) built in the CPU 56 and the interrupt vector (1 byte: least significant bit 0) output from the built-in device is This mode indicates an interrupt address.

  Next, the CPU 56 checks the state of the output signal of the clear switch (for example, mounted on the power supply board) input via the input port (step S6). When the on-state is detected in the confirmation, the CPU 56 executes normal initialization processing (steps S10 to S15).

  If the clear switch is not on, check whether data protection processing of the backup RAM area (for example, power supply stop processing such as addition of parity data) has been performed when power supply to the gaming machine is stopped (Step S7). When it is confirmed that such protection processing is not performed, the CPU 56 executes initialization processing. Whether there is backup data in the backup RAM area is confirmed, for example, by the state of the backup flag set in the backup RAM area in the power supply stop process.

  When it is confirmed that the power supply stop process has been performed, the CPU 56 performs data check of the backup RAM area (step S8). In this embodiment, a parity check is performed as a data check. Therefore, in step S8, the calculated checksum is compared with the checksum calculated and stored by the same process in the power supply stop process. When the power supply is stopped after an unexpected power failure or the like, the data in the backup RAM area should be saved, so the check result (comparison result) is normal (matched). That the check result is not normal means that the data in the backup RAM area is different from the data when the power supply is stopped. In such a case, since the internal state cannot be returned to the state when the power supply is stopped, an initialization process that is executed when the power is turned on is not performed when the power supply is stopped.

  If the check result is normal, the CPU 56 recovers the game state restoration process (steps S41 to S43) for returning the internal state of the game control means and the control state of the electrical component control means such as the effect control means to the state when the power supply is stopped. Process). Specifically, the start address of the backup setting table stored in the ROM 54 is set as a pointer (step S41), and the contents of the backup setting table are sequentially set in the work area (area in the RAM 55) (step S42). ). The work area is backed up by a backup power source. In the backup setting table, initialization data for an area that may be initialized in the work area is set. As a result of the processing in steps S41 and S42, the saved contents of the work area that should not be initialized remain as they are. The part that should not be initialized is, for example, data indicating the game state before the power supply is stopped (special symbol process flag, probability variation flag, time reduction flag, etc.), and the area where the output state of the output port is saved (output port buffer) ), A portion in which data indicating the number of unpaid prize balls is set.

  Further, the CPU 56 transmits a power failure restoration designation command (power failure restoration 1 designation command) as an initialization command at the time of power supply restoration to the effect control board 80 (step S43). Then, the process proceeds to step S14.

  In this embodiment, it is confirmed whether the data in the backup RAM area is stored using both the backup flag and the check data. However, only one of them may be used. That is, either the backup flag or the check data may be used as an opportunity for executing the game state restoration process.

  In the initialization process, the CPU 56 first performs a RAM clear process (step S10). The RAM clear process initializes predetermined data (for example, count value data of a counter for generating a big hit determination random number) to 0, but is initialized to an arbitrary value or a predetermined value. You may make it do. Alternatively, the entire area of the RAM 55 may not be initialized, and predetermined data (for example, count value data of a counter for generating a big hit determination random number) may be left as it is. Further, the initial address of the initialization setting table stored in the ROM 54 is set as a pointer (step S11), and the contents of the initialization setting table are sequentially set in the work area in the RAM 55 (step S12).

  By the processing in steps S11 and S12, an initial value is set to a flag for selectively performing processing according to the control state, such as a special symbol process flag.

  Further, the CPU 56 initializes a sub board (a board on which a microcomputer other than the main board 31 is mounted) (a command indicating that the game control microcomputer 560 has executed an initialization process). Is also transmitted to the effect control board 80 (step S13). For example, when the effect control microcomputer 100 mounted on the effect control board 80 receives the initialization designation command, the effect display device 9 displays a screen for notifying that the control of the gaming machine has been initialized. Display, that is, initialization notification. In the initialization process, the CPU 56 also transmits a customer waiting demonstration designation (demonstration) command.

  Further, the CPU 56 executes a random number circuit setting process for initial setting of the random number circuit 503 (step S14). For example, the CPU 56 performs setting according to the random number circuit setting program to cause the random number circuit 503 to update the value of the random R.

  Then, the CPU 56 sets a CTC register built in the game control microcomputer 560 so that a timer interrupt is periodically taken every predetermined time (for example, 2 ms) (step S15). That is, a value corresponding to, for example, 2 ms is set in a predetermined register (time constant register) as an initial value. In this embodiment, it is assumed that a timer interrupt is periodically taken every 2 ms.

  When the execution of the initialization process (steps S10 to S15) is completed, the CPU 56 repeatedly executes the display random number update process (step S17) and the initial value random number update process (step S18) in the main process. When executing the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process, the interrupt disabled state is set (step S16). When the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process are finished, the interrupt enabled state is set. Set (step S19). In this embodiment, the display random number is a random number for determining a variation pattern or the like, and the display random number update process is a process for updating the count value of the counter for generating the display random number. . The initial value random number update process is a process for updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number. In this embodiment, the initial value random number is an initial value of a count value such as a counter for generating a random number for determining whether or not to hit a normal symbol (normal symbol determination random number generation counter). It is a random number for determining. A game control process for controlling the progress of the game, which will be described later (the game control microcomputer 560 controls game devices such as a variable display device, a variable winning ball device, a ball payout device, etc. provided in the game machine itself. In a process for transmitting a command signal to cause another microcomputer to control, or a game device control process), the count value of the random number generation counter for jackpot determination or the like is one round (minimum value that can be taken by random numbers) When the value is incremented by the number of values between the value and the maximum value), an initial value is set in the counter.

  When the timer interrupt occurs, the CPU 56 executes the timer interrupt process in steps S20 to S34 shown in FIG. In the timer interrupt process, first, a power-off detection process for detecting whether or not a power-off signal is output (whether or not an on-state is turned on) is executed (step S20). The power-off signal is output, for example, when the power monitoring circuit 920 mounted on the power board detects a decrease in the voltage of the power supplied to the gaming machine. In the power-off detection process, when detecting that the power-off signal has been output, the CPU 56 executes a power supply stop process for saving necessary data in the backup RAM area. Next, detection signals from the gate switch 32a, the first start port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a, the count switch 23, and the winning port switches 29a, 30a, 33a, and 39a are input via the input driver circuit 58, These state determinations are performed (switch processing: step S21).

  Next, the CPU 56 has a first special symbol display 8a, a second special symbol display 8b, a normal symbol display 10, a first special symbol hold storage display 18a, a second special symbol hold storage display 18b, a normal symbol. A display control process for controlling the display of the on-hold storage display 41 is executed (step S22). About the 1st special symbol display 8a, the 2nd special symbol display 8b, and the normal symbol display 10, a drive signal is output with respect to each display according to the content of the output buffer set by step S32, S33. Execute control.

  Further, a process of updating the count value of each counter for generating each random number for determination such as a random number for determining a normal winning symbol used for game control is performed (determination random number update process: step S23). The CPU 56 further performs a process of updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number and the display random number (initial value random number update process, display random number update process: steps S24 and S25).

  Further, the CPU 56 performs special symbol process processing (step S26). In the special symbol process, corresponding processing is executed according to a special symbol process flag for controlling the first special symbol indicator 8a, the second special symbol indicator 8b, and the special winning award in a predetermined order. The CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag according to the gaming state.

  Next, normal symbol process processing is performed (step S27). In the normal symbol process, the CPU 56 executes a corresponding process according to the normal symbol process flag for controlling the display state of the normal symbol display 10 in a predetermined order. The CPU 56 updates the value of the normal symbol process flag according to the gaming state.

  Further, the CPU 56 performs a process of sending an effect control command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (effect control command control process: step S28).

  Further, the CPU 56 performs information output processing for outputting data such as jackpot information, start information, probability variation information supplied to the hall management computer, for example (step S29).

  Further, the CPU 56 performs prize ball processing for setting the number of prize balls based on detection signals from the first start port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a, the count switch 23, and the winning port switches 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a. Execute (Step S30). Specifically, the payout control is performed in accordance with winning detection based on any one of the first starting port switch 13a, the second starting port switch 14a, the count switch 23, and the winning port switches 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a being turned on. A payout control command (award ball number signal) indicating the number of winning balls is output to a payout control microcomputer mounted on the substrate 37. The payout control microcomputer drives the ball payout device 97 in accordance with a payout control command indicating the number of winning balls.

  In this embodiment, a RAM area (output port buffer) corresponding to the output state of the output port is provided. However, the CPU 56 relates to on / off of the solenoid in the RAM area corresponding to the output state of the output port. The contents are output to the output port (step S31: output process).

  Further, the CPU 56 performs special symbol display control processing for setting special symbol display control data for effect display of the special symbol in the output buffer for setting the special symbol display control data according to the value of the special symbol process flag ( Step S32). For example, if the variation speed is 1 frame / 0.2 seconds until the end flag is set when the start flag set in the special symbol process is set, the CPU 56, for example, every 0.2 seconds passes. Then, the value of the display control data set in the output buffer is incremented by one. Further, the CPU 56 outputs a drive signal in step S22 in accordance with the display control data set in the output buffer, whereby the first special symbol display unit 8a and the second special symbol display unit 8b Variable display of the second special symbol is executed.

  Further, the CPU 56 performs a normal symbol display control process for setting normal symbol display control data for effect display of the normal symbol in an output buffer for setting the normal symbol display control data according to the value of the normal symbol process flag ( Step S33). For example, when the start flag related to the variation of the normal symbol is set, the CPU 56 switches the display state (“◯” and “×”) for the variation rate of the normal symbol every 0.2 seconds until the end flag is set. With such a speed, the value of the display control data set in the output buffer (for example, 1 indicating “◯” and 0 indicating “x”) is switched every 0.2 seconds. Further, the CPU 56 outputs a normal signal on the normal symbol display 10 by outputting a drive signal in step S22 according to the display control data set in the output buffer.

  Thereafter, the interrupt permission state is set (step S34), and the process is terminated.

  With the above control, in this embodiment, the game control process is started every 2 ms. The game control process corresponds to the processes in steps S21 to S33 (excluding step S29) in the timer interrupt process. In this embodiment, the game control process is executed by the timer interrupt process. However, in the timer interrupt process, for example, only a flag indicating that an interrupt has occurred is set, and the game control process is performed by the main process. May be executed.

  FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing a pseudo continuous chance. “Pseudo-continuous” means that after the temporary display of the effect symbol is started and the display result is derived and displayed, the temporary stop symbol that is a display result other than the big hit is temporarily stopped, and then the effect symbol is variable. This is an effect in which the re-variation effect for executing the display again is executed once or a plurality of times. In the “pseudo-ream” specific effect, in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” symbol display areas 9L, 9C, and 9R in the effect display device 9, the pseudo-reambling chances GC1 to GC8 shown in FIG. The effect symbols constituting any of the above are temporarily stopped and displayed. The “left symbol” is an effect symbol displayed (stop display or temporary stop display) in the “left” symbol display area 9L, and the “middle symbol” is an effect symbol displayed in the “medium” symbol display area 9C. The “right symbol” is an effect symbol displayed in the “right” symbol display area 9R. The pseudo consecutive chances GC1 to GC8 may be determined in advance as a combination of effect symbols included in the special combination.

  When the shifted symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b and the effect display device 9, the variable display state of the effect symbol is changed after the variable display of the effect symbol is started. There may be a case where a predetermined combination of effects that does not reach reach is stopped and displayed without reaching reach. Such a variable display mode of the effect symbol is referred to as a variable display mode of “non-reach” (also referred to as “normally shift”) in a case where the variable display result is a loss symbol.

  When the shifted symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b and the effect display device 9, the variable display state of the effect symbol is started after the variable display of the effect symbol is started. Depending on the reach state, after the reach effect is executed, or when the reach effect is not executed, a combination of predetermined effect symbols that do not become reach may be stopped and displayed. Such a variable display result of the effect design is referred to as a variable display mode of “reach” (also referred to as “reach out”) when the variable display result is “out of”.

  In this embodiment, when the big win symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b, the reach effect is executed after the variable display state of the effect symbol becomes the reach state. Or the reach effect is not executed, and the effect symbols are all stopped and displayed in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” symbol display areas 9L, 9C, and 9R on the effect display device 9.

  When the small special symbol “5” is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display device 8a or the second special symbol display device 8b, the production symbol variable display mode is “suddenly probable big hit”. After the effect symbols are variably displayed in the same manner as in the case of “”, the stop symbols in the symbol display areas 9L and 9R of the predetermined “non-reach” (for example, “left” and “right”) do not match. May be displayed in a stopped manner, or a stopped symbol that is a predetermined reach combination may be displayed in a stopped manner. A display effect in the effect display device 9 corresponding to the fact that “5” as a small hit symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b, and a variable display mode of “small hit”. .

  Here, the small win is a hit that is allowed up to a small number of times that the big winning opening is opened compared to the big win (in this embodiment, the opening for 0.1 second is twice). When the small hit game ends, the game state does not change. That is, there is no transition from the probability variation state to the normal state or from the normal state to the certain variation state. In addition, the sudden probability change big hit is allowed up to a small number of times of opening of the big prize opening in the big hit gaming state (in this embodiment, the opening for 0.1 second is twice), but the opening time of the big prize opening is extremely large. It is a big jackpot that is a short jackpot and the game state after the big jackpot game is shifted to a probabilistic state (that is, by doing so, it appears to the player as if it suddenly became a probable state) Is). In other words, in this embodiment, the sudden winning odds and the small wins have the same opening pattern of the big prize opening. By controlling in such a way, if the winning opening is opened twice for 0.1 seconds, it is impossible to recognize whether it is suddenly a big hit or a small hit, so a high probability state for the player (Probable change state) can be expected, and the interest of the game can be improved.

  FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing a variation pattern of the effect symbol prepared in advance. As shown in FIG. 8, in this embodiment, as a variation pattern not accompanied by a “pseudo-continuous effect”, variation pattern 1 (normal variation loss), variation pattern 2 (normal reach loss), variation pattern 3 (per normal reach), There are a fluctuation pattern 4 (super reach loss), a fluctuation pattern 5 (per super reach), a fluctuation pattern 13 (fluctuation for sudden probability variation big hit) and a fluctuation pattern 14 (fluctuation for small hit time).

  The variation pattern 1 (normal variation loss) is a variation pattern in which the “out of symbol” is derived and displayed as the final stop symbol without the reach effect being executed. The variation pattern 2 (normal reach loss) is a variation pattern in which “out of symbol” is derived and displayed as a final stop symbol after the effect of normal reach is performed. The variation pattern 3 (per normal reach) is a variation pattern in which “big hit symbol” is derived and displayed as the final stop symbol after the effect of normal reach is performed. The variation pattern 4 (super reach loss) is a variation pattern in which “out of symbol” is derived and displayed as the final stop symbol after the effect of super reach is performed. The variation pattern 5 (per super reach) is a variation pattern in which “big hit symbol” is derived and displayed as the final stop symbol after the super reach effect is performed. The fluctuation pattern 13 is a fluctuation pattern used at the time of sudden probability big hit. The fluctuation pattern 14 is a fluctuation pattern used at the time of a small hit.

  As a variation pattern accompanied by “pseudo-continuous production”, a variation pattern 6 (pseudo-continuous (temporary stop once) → losing), a variation pattern 7 (pseudo-continuous (temporary stopping once) → super-reach lose), a variation pattern 8 (pseudo-continuous) (Temporary stop once) → per super reach), Fluctuation pattern 9 (pseudo-continuous (twice temporary stop) → Super reach loss), Fluctuation pattern 10 (pseudo-continuous (twice temporary stop) → per super reach), Fluctuation pattern 11 (Pseudo-continuous (3 times of temporary stop) → super reach loss) and fluctuation pattern 12 (pseudo-continuous (3 times of temporary stop) → per super reach).

  Fluctuation pattern 6 (Pseudo-ream (temporary stop 1 time) → Loss) is to change the decorative pattern of the left center right again after displaying the decorative pattern of the left middle right after temporarily stopping the display. ) Is performed, and the left / right / right decorative pattern is determined (final stop).

  Fluctuation pattern 7 (pseudo-continuation (temporary stop 1 time) → super reach lose) changes the decoration pattern of the left middle right again after temporarily changing the decoration pattern of the left middle right after temporarily displaying the decorative pattern of the left middle right. This is a variation pattern in which the left, middle and right decorative symbols (offset symbols) are finalized (final stop) after the super reach effect is performed.

  Fluctuation pattern 8 (Pseudo-ream (temporary stop 1 time) → per super reach) Re-variation of one decorative pattern (left middle right decorative pattern is temporarily stopped and then left middle right decorative pattern is changed again) This is a variation pattern in which the left middle right decorative symbol (big hit symbol) is finalized (final stop) after the super reach effect is performed.

  Fluctuation pattern 9 (Pseudo-ream (twice temporarily stopped) → Super reach lose) The second variation of the decorative symbol (left middle right decorative symbol is temporarily stopped and then the left middle right decorative symbol is changed again. This is a variation pattern in which the left, middle and right decorative symbols (offset symbols) are finalized (final stop) after the super reach effect is performed.

  Fluctuation pattern 10 (pseudo-continuous (twice temporarily stopped) → per super-reach) The second decorative pattern is re-varied (the left, middle and right decorative symbols are displayed temporarily stopped and then the left, middle and right decorative symbols are changed again. This is a variation pattern in which the left middle right decorative symbol (big hit symbol) is finalized (final stop) after the super reach effect is performed.

  Fluctuation pattern 11 (Pseudo-ream (3 temporary stops) → Super reach lose) 3 times re-variation of decorative symbols (left middle right decorative symbols are temporarily stopped and then left middle right decorative symbols are changed again) This is a variation pattern in which the left, middle and right decorative symbols (offset symbols) are finalized (final stop) after the super reach effect is performed.

  Fluctuation pattern 12 (Pseudo-ream (3 temporary stops) → per super reach) 3 times re-variation of decorative symbols (left, middle and right decorative symbols are displayed temporarily, then left, middle and right decorative symbols are changed again) This is a variation pattern in which the left middle right decorative symbol (big hit symbol) is finalized (final stop) after the super reach effect is performed.

  If the re-variation is executed twice or three times, after the re-variation is performed, the display result will always be out of the design, but the reach effect will be executed, or it will be a 15R big hit. It may be a big hit or a small hit.

  In this embodiment, there is a variation pattern in which the reach effect is executed after the pseudo-continuous effect is performed. However, when the pseudo-continuous effect is performed, the reach effect is not executed. May be.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 8, the variation time is fixedly determined according to the variation pattern. For example, when variation (variable display) is performed by the same type of variation pattern. Even if it exists, you may make it vary a variation time according to the total number of pending storage. For example, in the case where the fluctuation is caused by the fluctuation pattern with super reach, the fluctuation time may be shortened as the total number of pending storage increases. In addition, for example, when the first special symbol change display is performed when the change is made by the change pattern with super reach, the change time may be made different according to the first reserved storage number. When the variable display of the second special symbol is performed, the variable time may be varied according to the second reserved memory number. In this case, a separate determination table is prepared for each value of the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory number (for example, the variation pattern determination table for the reserved memory numbers 0 to 2 and the reserved memory numbers 3 and 4 And the variation pattern determination table may be prepared) and the determination table may be selected according to the value of the first reserved memory number or the second reserved memory number to vary the variation time.

  In addition, when the gaming state is a probabilistic state or a short-time state, a variation time of a predetermined variation pattern (for example, a variation pattern of “normal variation loss”) among the variation patterns is shortened (for example, 1/2) It will be variable time).

FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing each random number. Each random number is used as follows.
(1) Random 2 (MR2): Determines the type of jackpot (normal jackpot, probability variation jackpot, sudden probability variation jackpot described later) (for jackpot type determination)
(2) Random 3 (MR3): A variation pattern (variation time) is determined (for variation pattern determination)
(3) Random 4 (MR4): Determines whether or not to generate a hit based on the normal symbol (for normal symbol hit determination)
(4) Random 5 (MR5): Determine the initial value of random 4 (for determining the initial value of random 4)

  In step S23 in the game control process shown in FIG. 6, the game control microcomputer 560 counts a counter for generating a big hit type determination random number (random 2) and a normal symbol determination random number (random 4). Up (add 1). That is, they are determination random numbers, and other random numbers are display random numbers (random 3) or initial value random numbers (random 5). In addition, in order to improve a game effect, you may use random numbers other than said random number. In this embodiment, a random number generated by hardware incorporated in the game control microcomputer 560 (or hardware external to the game control microcomputer 560) is used as the jackpot determination random number.

  FIG. 10A is an explanatory diagram showing a jackpot determination table. The jackpot determination table is a collection of data stored in the ROM 54 and is a table in which a jackpot determination value to be compared with the random R is set. The jackpot determination table includes a normal-time jackpot determination table used in a normal state (a gaming state that is not a probability change state) and a probability change jackpot determination table used in a probability change state. Each numerical value described in the left column of FIG. 10 (A) is set in the normal jackpot determination table, and each numerical value described in the right column of FIG. 10 (A) is set in the probability variation big hit determination table. Is set. The numerical value described in FIG. 10A is a jackpot determination value.

  FIGS. 10B and 10C are explanatory diagrams showing a small hit determination table. The small hit determination table is a collection of data stored in the ROM 54 and is a table in which a small hit determination value to be compared with the random R is set. The small hit determination table includes a small hit determination table (for the first special symbol) used when the variable display of the first special symbol is performed, and a small hit determination table used when the variable display of the second special symbol is performed. (For the second special symbol). Each value described in FIG. 10B is set in the small hit determination table (for the first special symbol), and in the small hit determination table (for the second special symbol), the values shown in FIG. Each numerical value listed is set. Also, the numerical values described in FIGS. 10B and 10C are the small hit determination values.

  The CPU 56 extracts the count value of the random number circuit 503 at a predetermined time and sets the extracted value as the value of the big hit determination random number (random R). The big hit determination random number is shown in FIG. If it matches any of the big hit determination values, the special symbol is decided to be a big hit (a normal big hit, a probability variation big hit, and a sudden probability variation big hit described later). Further, when the big hit determination random number value matches one of the small hit determination values shown in FIGS. 10B and 10C, it is determined to make a small hit for the special symbol. Note that the “probability” shown in FIG. 10A indicates the probability (ratio) of a big hit. Further, the “probability” shown in FIGS. 10B and 10C indicates the probability (ratio) of making a small hit. Further, deciding whether or not to win a jackpot means deciding whether or not to shift to the jackpot gaming state, but the stop symbol in the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b It also means deciding whether or not to make a jackpot symbol. Further, determining whether or not to make a small hit means determining whether or not to shift to the small hit gaming state, but stopping in the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b. It also means determining whether or not the symbol is to be a small hit symbol.

  As shown in FIGS. 10B and 10C, when the small hit determination table (for the first special symbol) is used, the small hit is determined at a ratio of 1/300, whereas the small hit determination table is used. In the case where the determination table (for the second special symbol) is used, a case where a small hit is determined at a ratio of 1/3000 will be described. Therefore, in this embodiment, when the start winning prize is given to the first start winning opening 13 and the first special symbol variation display is executed, the start winning prize is given to the second starting winning prize slot 14 and the second special symbol is displayed. The ratio determined as “small hit” is higher than when the variable display is executed.

  It should be noted that the small hit may be determined only when the variable display of the first special symbol is performed, and the small hit may not be determined when the variable display of the second special symbol is performed. In that case, the small hit determination table for the second special symbol shown in FIG. In this embodiment, when the gaming state is shifted to the time-shortening state, the variable display of the second special symbol is mainly executed. When the game state is a high base state, a small hit is generated, and when the stage is configured to cause the player to guess whether or not the high base state is reached, the current gaming state is Even though it is in a high base state, it makes the player feel annoying. However, if it is configured so that a small hit does not occur during the fluctuation display of the second special symbol, if the gaming state is a high base state, it is difficult for the small hit to occur and whether or not the probability change state is more than necessary. Thus, it is possible to prevent the player from feeling annoyed.

  FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing a jackpot type determination table stored in the ROM 54. In the jackpot type determination table shown in FIG. 11, when it is determined that the variable display result is a jackpot symbol, based on the jackpot type determination random number (random 2), the jackpot type is “normal jackpot”, “ This table is referred to in order to determine one of “probability big hit” and “sudden probability big hit”.

  FIG. 11 (A) shows a case where the jackpot type is determined by using the hold memory based on the fact that the game ball has won the first start winning opening 13 (that is, when the first special symbol variation display is performed). A big hit type determination table (for the first special symbol) is shown. FIG. 11 (B) shows a case where the jackpot type is determined using the holding memory based on the game ball having won the second start winning opening 14 (that is, when the variation display of the second special symbol is performed). A big hit type determination table (for the second special symbol) is shown.

  Normally, the big hit is a big hit in which the number of times the big winning opening is opened in the big hit gaming state is allowed (for example, 15 times), and when the big hit gaming state is finished, the gaming state is changed to the short time state. The probabilistic big hit is a big hit that allows a large number of times (for example, 15 times) the number of times that the big winning opening is opened in the big hit gaming state, and changes the gaming state to the probable state when the big hit gaming state ends. Suddenly promising big hits are big hits in the big hit gaming state where the number of opening of the big prize opening is small and the opening time of the big winning opening is very short (for example, the opening time is 0.5 seconds and the number of times of opening is two). It is a big hit that shifts the gaming state after the game to the probability changing state (that is, it makes it appear to the player as if it has suddenly changed to the certainty state). Hereinafter, the sudden probability variation big hit (the big hit gaming state based on the sudden probability variation big hit is an example of a special gaming state) may be referred to as a sudden big hit or two rounds (2R) big hit. Further, the normal big hit and the probable big hit may be collectively referred to as 15R big hit.

  In this embodiment, in the case of sudden probability change big hit, the number of times the big winning opening is opened is 2, that is, the number of rounds of the big hit game based on the sudden probability change big hit is 2, The number of rounds of the basic jackpot game may be the same (for example, 15 rounds) as the number of rounds of the normal jackpot and the probability variation jackpot. In that case, the opening time of one round is further shortened (for example, 0.1 second).

  Also, in this embodiment, as an example, the stop symbol of the special symbol of sudden probability variation jackpot is “3”, and when the probability variation jackpot is reached, the stop symbol of the special symbol is “7” which is a probability variation jackpot symbol, and usually a big hit When it becomes, the stop symbol of the special symbol is “5” which is usually a big hit symbol. That is, the jackpot type and the special symbol stop symbol type correspond to each other.

  FIG. 11 (A) shows a case where the jackpot type is determined by using the hold memory based on the fact that the game ball has won the first start winning opening 13 (that is, when the first special symbol variation display is performed). A big hit type determination table (for the first special symbol) is shown. FIG. 11 (B) shows a case where the jackpot type is determined using the holding memory based on the game ball having won the second start winning opening 14 (that is, when the variation display of the second special symbol is performed). A big hit type determination table (for the second special symbol) is shown.

  In the high base state, there are more opportunities for the game ball to win the second start winning opening 14 than for the game ball to win the first start winning opening 13, so the second special symbol shown in FIG. There are many occasions where the big hit type determination table for use is used. Also, in the low base state, there is no opportunity for the game ball to win the second start winning opening 14, so the jackpot type determination table for the first special symbol shown in FIG. 11A is used.

  It should be noted that only when the jackpot type determination table for the first special symbol shown in FIG. 11 (A) is used, it may be distributed to “suddenly probable big hit”, and the big jackpot for the second special symbol shown in FIG. 11 (B) When the type determination table is used, it is not distributed to “suddenly probable big hit” (that is, “suddenly probable big hit” may be determined only when the first special symbol variation display is performed). Even when the variation display of the second special symbol is performed, it may be distributed to “suddenly probable big hit”.

  In this embodiment, the jackpot type is determined using a predetermined random number, but the stop pattern of the special symbol is determined using the predetermined random number, and the jackpot type is determined according to the determined special symbol type. It may be determined.

  In addition, when a special symbol stop symbol is determined using a predetermined random number, and a jackpot type is determined according to the determined special symbol type, one symbol or a plurality of symbols may be determined. Depending on the game state at that time, there may be a case where the game is shifted to the short time state after the end of the big hit game, or there is a case where it is not possible to shift to the time reduction state.

  FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram showing the type of jackpot and the gaming state after the jackpot game. As shown in FIG. 12, after the big hit game based on the sudden probability change big hit, the game state is controlled to the probability change state and the high base state. After the big hit game based on the probability change big hit, the gaming state is controlled to the probability change state and the high base state. After the big hit game based on the normal big hit, the gaming state is controlled to the normal state (non-probability changing state) and the high base state (however, until the end of the short-time state).

  FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing a variation pattern determination table stored in the ROM 54. As shown in FIG. 13, the fluctuation pattern determination table has a “15R big hit” field, a “surprise big hit” field, a “small hit” field, and a “losing” field, and is based on a random number for random pattern determination (random 3). Thus, the table is referred to in order to determine the variation pattern as one of a plurality of types.

  For example, when it is determined that the variable display result is a normal big hit or a probable big hit, the fluctuation pattern is determined based on a random number for random pattern determination (random 3) and the value of the “15R big hit” field. Further, when it is determined that the variable display result is suddenly a probable big hit, the fluctuation pattern is determined based on the random number for random pattern determination (random 3) and the value of the “abrupt big hit” field. When it is determined that the variable display result is a small hit, the variation pattern is determined based on the variation pattern determination random number (random 3) and the value of the “small hit” field. Further, when it is determined that the variable display result is out of place, the variation pattern is determined based on the variation pattern determination random number (random 3) and the value of the “lost” field.

  According to the variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 13, when the variation pattern in which super reach is executed is selected rather than normal reach, the ratio of big hits is higher, and even when the same super reach is executed, The ratio of big hits is higher when the number of temporary stops of the pseudo-ream is larger.

  In this embodiment, one variation pattern determination table is used regardless of the number of reserved memories, but a different variation pattern determination table may be used according to the number of reserved memories. In this case, for example, in the “losing” field of the variation pattern determination table used when the total number of reserved storage (the first number of stored storage or the number of second reserved storage may be sufficient) (for example, 3 or more), the reach probability The determination value is set so that the value becomes lower.

  FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the contents of the effect control command transmitted by the game control microcomputer 560. In the example shown in FIG. 14, the command 80XX (H) is an effect control command (variation pattern command) for designating a variation pattern of the effect symbol that is variably displayed on the effect display device 9 in response to the variable display of the special symbol. (Corresponding to the variation pattern XX, respectively). That is, when a unique number is assigned to each of the usable variation patterns shown in FIG. 8, there is a variation pattern command corresponding to each variation pattern specified by the number. “(H)” indicates a hexadecimal number. The effect control command for designating the variation pattern is also a command for designating the start of variation. Therefore, when receiving the command 80XX (H), the effect control microcomputer 100 controls the first decorative symbol display 9a or the second decorative symbol display 9b to start the decorative variable display, thereby producing the effect display device. In step 9, control is performed so as to start variable display of effect symbols.

  The commands 8C01 (H) to 8C05 (H) are effect control commands indicating whether or not to make a big hit and the type of the big hit game. The production control microcomputer 100 determines the display results of the decorative symbols and the production symbols in response to the reception of the commands 8C01 (H) to 8C05 (H), so that the commands 8C01 (H) to 8C05 (H) are specified as the display results. It is called a command.

  Command 8D01 (H) is an effect control command (first symbol variation designation command) indicating that variable display (variation) of the first special symbol is started. Command 8D02 (H) is an effect control command (second symbol variation designation command) indicating that variable display (variation) of the second special symbol is started. The first symbol variation designation command and the second symbol variation designation command may be collectively referred to as a special symbol specifying command (or symbol variation designation command). Note that information indicating whether to start variable display of the first special symbol or to start variable display of the second special symbol may be included in the variation pattern command.

  The command 8F00 (H) is an effect control command (symbol confirmation designation command) indicating that the variable display (fluctuation) of the effect symbols (and decoration symbols) is terminated and the display result (stop symbol) is derived and displayed. When receiving the symbol confirmation designation command, the effect control microcomputer 100 ends the variable display (fluctuation) of the effect symbol and the decorative symbol and derives and displays the display result.

  Command 9000 (H) is an effect control command (initialization designation command: power-on designation command) transmitted when power supply to the gaming machine is started. Command 9200 (H) is an effect control command (power failure recovery designation command) transmitted when power supply to the gaming machine is resumed. When the power supply to the gaming machine is started, the gaming control microcomputer 560 transmits a power failure recovery designation command if data is stored in the backup RAM, and if not, initialization designation is performed. Send a command.

  Command 9F00 (H) is an effect control command (customer waiting demonstration designation command) for designating a customer waiting demonstration.

  The commands A001 to A003 (H) are for displaying a fanfare screen, that is, an effect control command for designating the start of a jackpot game or the start of a jackpot game (a jackpot start designation command or a jackpot start designation command: a fanfare designation command). is there. The big hit start designation command or the small hit start designation command includes a big hit start 1 designation command, a big hit start designation 2 designation command, and a small hit / sudden probability sudden change big hit start designation command corresponding to the type or small hit. The command A1XX (H) is an effect control command (special command during opening of a special winning opening) indicating a display of the number of times (round) indicated by XX while the special winning opening is open. A2XX (H) is an effect control command (designation command after opening the big winning opening) indicating the closing of the big winning opening for the number of times (round) indicated by XX.

  Command A301 (H) displays a jackpot end screen, that is, specifies the end of the jackpot game and an effect control command (special jackpot end 1 designation command: ending) that specifies that the jackpot game is a non-probable big hit (usually a big hit) 1 designation command). Command A302 (H) is an effect control command for displaying the jackpot end screen, that is, the end of the jackpot game and specifying that it is a probable big hit (big hit end 2 designation command: ending 2 designation command). is there. Command A303 (H) is an effect control command (small hit / sudden probability sudden change big hit end designation command: ending 3 designation command) for designating the end of the small hit game or the sudden odd change big hit game.

  The command C000 (H) is an effect control command (first start winning designation command) that designates that the first start winning has been won. The command C100 (H) is an effect control command (second start winning designation command) for designating that the second starting win has been won. The first start prize designation command and the second start prize designation command may be collectively referred to as a start prize designation command.

  The command C2XX (H) is an effect control command (total pending storage number designation command) that designates the total number (total pending storage number) that is the sum of the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory number. “XX” in the command C2XX (H) indicates the total pending storage number. The command C300 (H) is an effect control command (total pending storage number subtraction designation command) that specifies that the total pending storage number is decremented by one. In this embodiment, the game control microcomputer 560 transmits a total pending memory count subtraction designation command when subtracting the total pending memory count, but does not use the total pending memory count subtraction designation command, and does not use the total pending memory count subtraction designation command. When the stored number is subtracted, the combined pending storage number after the subtraction may be specified by a combined pending storage number designation command.

  The effect control microcomputer 100 (specifically, the effect control CPU 101) mounted on the effect control board 80 receives the above-described effect control command from the game control microcomputer 560 mounted on the main board 31. Then, the display state of the image display device 9 is changed according to the contents shown in FIG. 14, the display state of the lamp is changed, and the sound number data is output to the sound output board 70.

  For example, the game control microcomputer 560 designates the variation pattern of the effect symbol every time there is a start prize and variable display of the special symbol is started on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b. The variation pattern command and the display result specifying command are transmitted to the production control microcomputer 100.

  In this embodiment, the effect control command has a 2-byte structure, the first byte represents MODE (command classification), and the second byte represents EXT (command type). The first bit (bit 7) of the MODE data is always set to “1”, and the first bit (bit 7) of the EXT data is always set to “0”. Note that such a command form is an example, and other command forms may be used. For example, a control command composed of 1 byte or 3 bytes or more may be used.

  In addition, as the transmission method of the effect control command, the effect control command data is output from the main board 31 to the effect control board 80 via the relay board 77 by the eight parallel signal lines of the effect control signals CD0 to CD7, In addition to the effect control command data, a method of outputting a pulse-shaped (rectangular wave-shaped) capture signal (effect control INT signal) for instructing capture of the effect control command data is used. The 8-bit effect control command data of the effect control command is output in synchronization with the effect control INT signal. The effect control microcomputer 100 mounted on the effect control board 80 detects that the effect control INT signal has risen, and starts a 1-byte data capturing process through an interrupt process.

  In the example shown in FIG. 14, the variable pattern command and the display result specifying command are displayed in a variable display (variation) of the decorative symbol corresponding to the variation of the first special symbol on the first special symbol indicator 8a and the second special symbol indicator. The image display device 9 that can be used in common with the variable display (variation) of the decorative symbol corresponding to the variation of the second special symbol in 8b, and that produces effects in accordance with the variable display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol. When controlling the effect parts, it is possible to prevent an increase in the types of commands transmitted from the game control microcomputer 560 to the effect control microcomputer 100.

  Note that the command 8D01 (H) (first symbol variation designation command) and the command 8D02 (H) (second symbol variation designation command) are executed by the effect control microcomputer 100 by the first special symbol display 8a. Whether the first design symbol display unit 9a that performs variable display of the first design as a design for decoration (production) during the variable display time of the design changes the design of the design, by the second special design display 8b. It is used to determine whether or not the decorative symbol is changed in the second decorative symbol display unit 9b that performs variable display of the second decorative symbol during the variable display time of the second special symbol.

  FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing an example of a special symbol process (step S26) program executed by the game control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) mounted on the main board 31. As described above, in the special symbol process, a process for controlling the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b and the special winning opening is executed. In the special symbol process, the CPU 56 detects that the game ball has won the first start port switch 13a or the second start port 14 for detecting that the game ball has won the first start game port 13. If the second start port switch 14a is turned on, that is, if a start winning is generated, start port switch passing processing is executed (steps S311 and S312). Then, any one of steps S300 to S310 is performed. If the first start winning port switch 13a or the second start port switch 14a is not turned on, any one of steps S300 to S310 is performed according to the internal state.

  The processes in steps S300 to S310 are as follows.

  Special symbol normal processing (step S300): Executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is zero. When the game control microcomputer 560 is in a state where variable display of a special symbol can be started, the game control microcomputer 560 checks the number of numerical data stored in the reserved storage number buffer (total reserved storage number). The number of numerical data stored in the reserved storage number buffer can be confirmed by the count value of the total reserved storage number counter. If the count value of the total reserved memory number counter is not 0, it is determined whether the display result of the variable display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol is a big hit or a small hit. In case of big hit, set big hit flag. In case of small hit, a small hit flag is set. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (1 in this example) according to step S301. The big hit flag and the small hit flag are reset when the big hit game or the small hit game ends.

  Fluctuation pattern setting process (step S301): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 1. Also, the variation pattern is determined, and the variation time in the variation pattern (variable display time: the time from the start of variable display until the display result is derived and displayed (stop display)) is defined as the variation display variation time of the special symbol. Decide to do. Also, a variable time timer for measuring the special symbol variable time is started. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (2 in this example) corresponding to step S302.

  Display result specifying command transmission process (step S302): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 2. Control for transmitting a display result specifying command to the production control microcomputer 100 is performed. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (3 in this example) corresponding to step S303.

  Special symbol changing process (step S303): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 3. When the variation time of the variation pattern selected in the variation pattern setting process elapses (the variation time timer set in step S301 times out, that is, the variation time timer value becomes 0), the internal state (special symbol process flag) is stepped. Update to a value corresponding to S304 (4 in this example).

  Special symbol stop process (step S304): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 4. The variable display on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b is stopped, and the stop symbol is derived and displayed. In addition, control for transmitting a symbol confirmation designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 is performed. When the big hit flag or the small hit flag is set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (5 or 8 in this example) corresponding to step S305 or step S308. If neither the big hit flag nor the small hit flag is set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S300 (in this example, 0). The effect control microcomputer 100 controls the effect display device 9 to stop the effect symbol and the decoration symbol when the symbol confirmation designation command transmitted from the game control microcomputer 560 is received.

  Preliminary winning opening opening process (step S305): This is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 5. In the pre-opening process for the big prize opening, control for opening the big prize opening is performed. Specifically, a counter (for example, a counter that counts the number of game balls that have entered the big prize opening) is initialized and the solenoid 21 is driven to open the big prize opening. Also, the execution time of the special prize opening opening process is set by the timer, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S306 (6 in this example). Note that the pre-opening process for the big prize opening is executed for each round, but when starting the first round, the pre-opening process for the big winning opening is also a process for starting the big hit game.

  Large winning opening opening process (step S306): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 6. A control for transmitting an effect control command for round display during the big hit game state or the small hit game to the effect control microcomputer 100, a process for confirming that the closing condition of the big prize opening is established, and the like are performed. If the closing condition for the special prize opening is satisfied and there are still remaining rounds, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (5 in this example) corresponding to step S305. When all the rounds are completed, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S307 (7 in this example).

  Big hit end process (step S307): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 7. Control is performed to cause the microcomputer 100 for effect control to perform display control for notifying the player that the big hit gaming state has ended. In addition, a process for setting a flag indicating a gaming state (for example, a probability change flag or a time reduction flag) is performed. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (0 in this example) corresponding to step S300.

  Small hit release pre-processing (step S308): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 8. In the pre-opening process for small hits, control is performed to open the big prize opening. Specifically, a counter (for example, a counter that counts the number of game balls that have entered the big prize opening) is initialized and the solenoid 21 is driven to open the big prize opening. Also, the execution time of the special prize opening opening process is set by the timer, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (9 in this example) corresponding to step S309. It should be noted that although the pre-opening process for small hits is executed for each round, the pre-opening process for small hits is also a process for starting a small hit game when starting the first round.

  Small hit release processing (step S309): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 9. A control for transmitting an effect control command for a round display during the small hit gaming state to the effect control microcomputer 100, a process for confirming the completion of the closing condition of the big prize opening, and the like are performed. If the closing condition for the big prize opening is satisfied and there are still remaining rounds, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S308 (8 in this example). When all rounds are completed, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S310 (in this example, 10 (decimal number)).

  Small hit end process (step S310): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 10. Control is performed to cause the microcomputer 100 for effect control to perform display control for notifying the player that the small hit gaming state has ended. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (0 in this example) corresponding to step S300.

  FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing the start-port switch passing process in step S312. In the start port switch passing process executed when at least one of the first start port switch 13a and the second start port switch 14a is in the on state, the CPU 56 is turned on by the first start port switch 13a. Whether or not (step S211). If the first start port switch 13a is on, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the first reserved memory number counter for counting the first reserved memory number is 4 (step S212). If the value of the first reserved memory number counter is 4, the process proceeds to step S221.

  If the value of the first reserved memory number counter is not 4, the CPU 56 increments the value of the first reserved memory number counter by 1 (step S213). Further, the CPU 56 corresponds to the value of the total reserved storage number counter in the reserved storage specific information storage area (hold specific area) for storing the winning order to the first start winning opening 13 and the second start winning opening 14. Data indicating “first” is set in the area (step S214).

  In this embodiment, when the first start opening switch 13a is turned on (that is, when a game ball starts and wins the first start winning opening 13), data indicating “first” is set, When the second start port switch 14a is turned on (that is, when a game ball starts and wins the second start winning port 14), data indicating “second” is set. For example, the CPU 56 sets 01 (H) as data indicating “first” when the first start port switch 13 a is turned on in the reserved storage specifying information storage area (holding specified area), 2 When the start port switch 14a is turned on, 02 (H) is set as data indicating “second”. In this case, when there is no corresponding reserved storage, 00 (H) is set in the reserved storage specific information storage area (hold specific area).

  FIG. 17A is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of a reserved storage specifying information storage area (holding specified area). As shown in FIG. 17A, an area corresponding to the maximum value (8 in this example) of the total reserved memory number counter is secured in the reserved specific area. FIG. 17A shows an example in which the value of the total pending storage number counter is 5. As shown in FIG. 17A, an area corresponding to the maximum value (8 in this example) of the total reserved memory number counter is secured in the reserved specific area, and the first start winning opening 13 or the second start is determined. Data indicating “first” or “second” is set in order of winning based on winning in the winning opening 14. Accordingly, in the reserved storage specific information storage area (hold specific area), the winning order to the first start winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14 is stored. Note that the reserved specific area is formed in the RAM 55. “Formed in RAM” means an area in the RAM.

  FIG. 17B is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of an area (hold buffer) for storing random numbers and the like corresponding to the hold memory. As shown in FIG. 17B, a storage area corresponding to the upper limit value (4 in this example) of the first reserved storage number is secured in the first reserved storage buffer. In addition, a storage area corresponding to the upper limit value of the second reserved storage number (4 in this example) is secured in the second reserved storage buffer. The first reserved storage buffer and the second reserved storage buffer are formed in the RAM 55.

  In the start port switch passing process, the CPU 56 extracts a value from the random number circuit 503 and a counter for generating a software random number, and executes a process of storing them in the storage area in the first reserved storage buffer (step S215). . In the process of step S215, random R (a big hit determination random number) and software random number 2 (see FIG. 9) are stored in the storage area.

  Next, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a first start winning designation command (step S216). Further, the CPU 56 increases the value of the total pending memory number counter indicating the total pending memory number that is the sum of the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory number by 1 (step S217). Then, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a total pending storage number designation command indicating the total pending storage number based on the value of the total pending storage number counter (step S218). Note that the total pending storage number designation command may be transmitted before the first start winning designation command.

  When transmitting an effect control command to the effect control microcomputer 100, the CPU 56 sets an address of a command transmission table (preliminarily set for each command in the ROM) corresponding to the effect control command as a pointer. . And the address of the command transmission table according to an effect control command is set to a pointer, and an effect control command is transmitted in an effect control command control process (step S29).

  Next, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the second start port switch 14a is turned on (step S221). If the second start port switch 14a is on, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the second reserved memory number counter for counting the second reserved memory number is 4 (step S222). If the value of the second reserved memory number counter is 4, the process is terminated. If the value of the second reserved memory number counter is 4, the CPU 56 may perform the process of confirming again whether the first start port switch 13a is on (see step S211).

  If the value of the second reserved memory number counter is not 4, the CPU 56 increases the value of the second reserved memory number counter by 1 (step S223). Further, the CPU 56 sets data indicating “second” in an area corresponding to the value of the total reserved storage number counter in the reserved storage specific information storage area (hold specific area) (step S224).

  Next, the CPU 56 extracts values from the random number circuit 503 and a counter for generating software random numbers, and executes a process of storing them in a storage area in the second reserved storage buffer (step S225). Note that in the process of step S225, random R (big hit determination random number) and random 2 (see FIG. 9) are stored in the storage area.

  Next, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a second start winning designation command (step S226). Further, the CPU 56 increases the value of the total pending storage number counter by 1 (step S227). Then, the CPU 56 transmits a total pending storage number designation command based on the value of the total pending storage number counter (step S228). Note that the total pending storage number designation command may be transmitted before the second start winning designation command.

  In addition, you may implement | achieve the process of step S213-218 and the process of step S223-228 by one common routine. In that case, the CPU 56 first sets data indicating “first” when detecting that the first start port switch 13a is turned on, and indicates that the second start port switch 14a is turned on. When data is detected, the data indicating “second” is set, and the common storage routine selects the reserved memory number buffer (first reserved memory number buffer or second reserved memory number buffer) according to the set data. Or a start prize designation command (first start prize designation command or second start prize designation command) is selected.

  18 and 19 are flowcharts showing the special symbol normal process (step S300) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol normal process, the CPU 56 confirms the value of the total pending storage number (step S51). Specifically, the count value of the total pending storage number counter is confirmed. If the total pending storage number is 0, the process is terminated.

  If the total pending storage number is not 0, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the first data among the data set in the pending specific area (see FIG. 17A) is data indicating “first”. (Step S52). If it is data indicating “first”, a special symbol pointer (a flag indicating whether special symbol process processing is being performed for the first special symbol or special symbol process processing is being performed for the second special symbol) is set to “first 1 "is set (step S53). If it is not data indicating “first”, that is, if it is data indicating “second”, data indicating “second” is set in the special symbol pointer (step S54).

  In the RAM 55, the CPU 56 reads out each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the reserved storage number = 1 indicated by the special symbol pointer, and stores it in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55 (step S55). Specifically, when the special symbol pointer indicates “first”, the CPU 56 determines each disturbance stored in the storage area corresponding to the first reserved memory number = 1 in the first reserved memory number buffer. The numerical value is read and stored in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55. In addition, when the special symbol pointer indicates “second”, the CPU 56 reads each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the second reserved memory number = 1 in the second reserved memory number buffer. And stored in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55.

  Then, the CPU 56 decrements the count value of the reserved storage number counter indicated by the special symbol pointer, and shifts the contents of each storage area (step S56). Specifically, when the special symbol pointer indicates “first”, the CPU 56 decrements the count value of the first reserved memory number counter by 1 and saves each storage area in the first reserved memory number buffer. Shift the contents of. When the special symbol pointer indicates “second”, the count value of the second reserved memory number counter is decremented by 1, and the contents of each storage area in the second reserved memory number buffer are shifted.

  That is, when the special symbol pointer indicates “first”, the CPU 56 saves the first reserved memory number = n (n = 2, 3, 4) in the first reserved memory number buffer of the RAM 55. Are stored in a storage area corresponding to the first reserved memory number = n−1. Further, when the special symbol pointer indicates “second”, it is stored in the storage area corresponding to the second reserved memory number = n (n = 2, 3, 4) in the second reserved memory number buffer of the RAM 55. Each random number value is stored in a storage area corresponding to the second reserved memory number = n−1.

  Therefore, the order in which each random value stored in each storage area corresponding to each first reserved memory number (or each second reserved memory number) is extracted is always the first reserved memory number (or (Second reserved storage number) = 1, 2, 3, 4 in order.

  Then, the CPU 56 stores the count value of the total pending storage number counter in a predetermined area of the RAM 55 (step S57), and then decreases the value of the total pending storage number by one. That is, 1 is subtracted from the count value of the total pending storage number counter (step S58). The CPU 56 stores the value of the total pending storage number counter before the count value is decremented by 1 in a predetermined area of the RAM 55.

  In the special symbol normal process, first, data indicating “first” indicating that the process is executed for the first start winning opening 13, that is, “first” indicating that the process is executed for the first special symbol. ”Or“ second ”indicating that the process is performed on the second special symbol, that is,“ second ”indicating that the process is performed on the second start winning opening 14. Data is set in the special symbol pointer. In the subsequent processing in the special symbol process, processing corresponding to the data set in the special symbol pointer is executed. Therefore, the process of steps S300 to S310 can be made common between the case of targeting the first special symbol and the case of targeting the second special symbol.

  Next, the CPU 56 reads a random R (a jackpot determination random number) from the random number buffer area and executes a jackpot determination module. The jackpot determination module is a program that compares a jackpot determination value (see FIG. 10) determined in advance with a jackpot determination random number, and executes a process of determining that it is a jackpot or a small hit if they match. In other words, this is a program for executing the big hit determination process.

  The jackpot determination process is configured such that when the gaming state is a probable change state (high probability state), the probability of a big hit is higher than when the gaming state is a non-probability change state (normal game state and short-time state). ing. Specifically, the probability change jackpot determination table (a table in which the numerical value on the right side of FIG. 10A in the ROM 54 is set) in which a large number of jackpot determination values are set in advance, and the number of jackpot determination values are variable. There is provided a normal big hit determination table (a table in which the numerical values on the left side of FIG. 10A in the ROM 54 are set) set to be smaller than the big hit determination table. Then, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the gaming state is a probability variation state. If the gaming state is a probability variation state, the jackpot determination process is performed using the probability variation jackpot determination table, and the gaming state is normal. When in the gaming state, the big hit determination process is performed using the normal big hit determination table. That is, when the value of the big hit determination random number (random R) matches one of the big hit determination values shown in FIG. 10A, the CPU 56 determines that the special symbol is a big hit (probability big hit or normal big hit). . When it is determined to be a big hit (step S61), the process proceeds to step S71. Note that deciding whether to win or not is to decide whether or not to shift to the big hit gaming state, but to decide whether or not to stop the special symbol display as a big hit symbol. But there is.

  Note that whether or not the current gaming state is the probability variation state is determined by whether or not the probability variation flag is set. The probability variation flag is set when the gaming state is shifted to the probability variation state, and is reset when the probability variation state is terminated. Specifically, it is determined to be a probable big hit or suddenly probable big hit, set in the process of ending the big hit game, determined to be a normal big hit, and reset in the process of ending the big hit game.

  If the random R value does not match any of the big hit determination values, it is checked whether or not the random R value matches any of the small hit determination values (step S62). If they match, a small hit flag is set (step S63). Then, the process proceeds to step S75. If it does not coincide with the small hit determination value, the process proceeds to step S75.

  In step S71, the CPU 56 sets a big hit flag. Then, the jackpot type determination table 131 shown in FIG. 10C is selected as a table used to determine the jackpot type as one of a plurality of types (step S72). The type corresponding to the value of the random number (random 2) for determining the jackpot type stored in the random number buffer area is determined as the type of jackpot ("normal jackpot", "probable big hit" or "sudden probability big hit"). (Step S73). Further, the data indicating the determined jackpot type is set in the jackpot type buffer in the RAM 55 (step S74). For example, when the big hit type is “normal big hit”, “01” is set as data indicating the big hit type, and when the big hit type is “probable big hit”, “02” is set as the data indicating the big hit type, When the big hit type is “suddenly probable big hit”, “03” is set as data indicating the big hit type.

  Next, the CPU 56 determines a special symbol stop symbol (step S75). Specifically, when the big hit flag and the small hit flag are not set, “−” as a special symbol is determined as a special symbol stop symbol. When the small hit flag is set, “5” as the small hit symbol is determined as a special symbol stop symbol. When the big hit flag is set, one of “1”, “3”, and “7”, which is a big hit symbol, is determined as a special symbol stop symbol according to the determination result of the big hit type. That is, when the big hit type is determined to be “suddenly promising big hit”, “1”, which is a two round big hit symbol, is determined as a special symbol stop symbol. When the big hit type is determined as “normal big hit” or “probable big hit”, “3” or “7” is determined as the special symbol stop symbol.

  Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern setting process (step S301) (step S76).

  FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing the variation pattern setting process (step S301) in the special symbol process. In the variation pattern setting process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the big hit flag is set (step S91). When the big hit flag is set, the CPU 56 determines the variation pattern as one of a plurality of types when the big hit type is 15R big hit (normal big hit or probability variation big hit) (step S92). The “15R big hit” field (see FIG. 13) is selected as the field of the variation pattern determination table used for (Step S93). Then, the process proceeds to step S101.

  When the big hit type is not 15R big hit, the “sudden big hit” field (see FIG. 13) is selected as the field of the fluctuation pattern determination table used to determine the fluctuation pattern (step S94). Then, the process proceeds to step S101.

  When the big hit flag is not set, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the small hit flag is set (step S95). When the small hit flag is set, the CPU 56 selects the “small hit” field (see FIG. 13) as the field of the fluctuation pattern determination table used to determine the fluctuation pattern (step S96). Then, the process proceeds to step S101.

  When the small hit flag is not set, the CPU 56 selects the “losing” field (see FIG. 13) as the field of the fluctuation pattern determination table used for determining the fluctuation pattern (step S97). Then, the process proceeds to step S101.

  In step S101, the CPU 56 reads random 3 (random number for variation pattern determination) from the random number buffer area (first reserved storage buffer or second reserved storage buffer), and the variation selected in the processing of steps S93, S94, S96, S97. By referring to the field of the pattern determination table, the variation pattern is determined as one of a plurality of types (step S102).

  When the random number 3 (variation pattern determination random number) is not extracted at the start winning timing, the CPU 56 uses the variation pattern determination random number counter for generating the variation pattern determination random number (random 3). It is also possible to extract the value directly from and to determine the variation pattern based on the extracted random number value. In this embodiment, the variation pattern is directly determined using the variation pattern determination random number. However, the variation pattern is grouped in advance into the variation pattern type, and first, the variation pattern type is determined using the variation pattern type determination random number. The variation pattern may be determined using variation pattern determination random numbers from among the variation patterns included in the determined variation pattern type.

  Next, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit the symbol variation designation command indicated by the special symbol pointer to the production control microcomputer 100 (step S103). Specifically, when the special symbol pointer indicates “first”, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a first symbol variation designation command. In addition, when the special symbol pointer indicates “second”, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a second symbol variation designation command. Further, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit an effect control command (variation pattern command) corresponding to the determined change pattern to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S104).

  Next, the CPU 56 also starts changing the special symbol (step S105). Specifically, for example, a start flag corresponding to the special symbol referred to in the special symbol display control process in step S32 is set. Further, a value corresponding to the variation time corresponding to the selected variation pattern is set in the variation time timer formed in the RAM 55 (step S106). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the display result specifying command transmission process (step S302) (step S107).

  In the case where it is determined to be out of place, instead of determining the variation pattern regardless of the reach, it may be determined first whether or not to reach by a lottery process using a random number for reach determination. . Then, the variation pattern may be determined based on the determination result of whether or not to reach. In that case, prepare the fluctuation pattern determination table for non-reach (including only the fluctuation pattern of non-reach) and the fluctuation pattern determination table for reach (including only the fluctuation pattern of reach). Based on the determination result, one of the fluctuation pattern determination tables may be selected to determine the fluctuation pattern.

  Further, when deciding whether or not to reach by a lottery process using a random number for reach determination, the selection of reach according to the total number of reserved storage (may be the first reserved memory number or the second reserved memory number) Reach determination tables having different ratios may be selected, and it may be determined whether or not to reach so that the reach probability decreases as the number of reserved memories increases.

  FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing the display result specifying command transmission process (step S302). In the display result specifying command transmission process, the CPU 56 transmits an effect control command (refer to FIG. 14) of any one of the display result 1 designation to the display result 5 designation according to the determined type of big hit, small hit, and loss. Control. Specifically, the CPU 56 first checks whether or not the big hit flag is set (step S110). If not set, the process proceeds to step S116. When the big hit flag is set, when the big hit type is a probable big hit, control is performed to transmit a display result 3 designation command (steps S111 and S112). When the type of jackpot is a sudden probability change jackpot, control is performed to transmit a display result 4 designation command (steps S113 and S114). If neither the probability variation big hit nor sudden probability variation big hit is found, control is performed to transmit a display result 2 designation command (step S115).

  When the CPU 56 confirms that the small hit flag is set in the process of step S116, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a display result 5 designation command (step S117). When the small hit flag is not set, control for transmitting a display result 1 designation command is performed (step S118).

  Then, a total pending storage number subtraction designation command designating that 1 is subtracted from the total pending storage number is transmitted (step S119). Instead of transmitting the total pending storage number subtraction designation command, a total pending storage number designation command for designating the total pending storage number after subtraction may be transmitted. Further, the CPU 56 stores the transmitted display result specifying command in the effect symbol type storage area in the RAM 55.

  Thereafter, the CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the special symbol changing process (step S303) (step S120).

  FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing the special symbol changing process (step S303) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol changing process, the CPU 56 decrements the variable time timer by 1 (step S125), and when the variable time timer times out (step S126), the value of the special symbol process flag corresponds to the special symbol stop process (step S304). The updated value is updated (step S127). If the variable time timer has not timed out, the process ends.

  FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing the special symbol stop process (step S304) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol stop process, the CPU 56 sets an end flag referred to in the special symbol display control process in step S32 to end the variation of the special symbol, and the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b. Then, a control for deriving and displaying the stop symbol is performed (step S131). If data indicating “first” is set in the special symbol pointer, the variation of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display 8a is terminated, and “second” is indicated in the special symbol pointer. When data is set, the variation of the second special symbol on the second special symbol display 8b is terminated. Moreover, control which transmits the symbol determination designation | designated command to the microcomputer 100 for production control is performed (step S132). If the big hit flag is not set, the process proceeds to step S139 (step S133).

  When the big hit flag is set, the CPU 56 resets the probability variation flag and the time reduction flag (step S134), and performs control to send a big hit start designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S135). Specifically, when the type of jackpot is a probabilistic jackpot, a jackpot start 2 designation command is transmitted. When the big hit type is sudden probability change big hit, a small hit / sudden probability change big hit start designation command is transmitted. Otherwise, a jackpot start 1 designation command is transmitted. Whether or not the big hit type is a probable big hit or a sudden probable big hit is determined based on data indicating the big hit type stored in the RAM 55 (data stored in the big hit type buffer).

  Also, a value corresponding to the big hit display time (for example, the time for notifying that the big hit has occurred in the effect display device 9) is set in the big hit display time timer (step S136). Also, the number of times of opening (for example, 15 times for normal big hit and probable big hit (15 round big hit), 2 times for sudden big change big hit (2 round big hit)) is set in the big prize opening number counter. (Step S137). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the pre-winner opening pre-processing (step S305) (step S138).

  In step S139, the CPU 56 checks whether or not a time reduction flag indicating that the time reduction state is set. If the time reduction flag is set, the value of the time reduction counter indicating the number of times the special symbol can be changed in the time reduction state is decremented by 1 (step S140). Then, when the value of the time reduction counter becomes 0, the time reduction flag is reset (step S142). And it is confirmed whether the small hit flag is set (step S143). If the small hit flag is set, control is performed to transmit a small hit / sudden probability sudden change big hit start command to the production control microcomputer 100 (step S144). In addition, a value corresponding to the small hit display time (for example, the time when the effect display device 9 notifies that the small hit has occurred) is set in the small hit display time timer (step S145). Further, the number of times of opening (2 times) is set in the special winning opening opening number counter (step S146). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the small hit release pre-processing (step S308) (step S147). If the small hit flag is not set, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special symbol normal process (step S300) (step S148).

  FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing the pre-opening process for the special winning opening in the special symbol process (step S305). In the big prize opening pre-processing, the CPU 56 decrements the value of the big prize opening control timer by 1 (step S401). Then, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the big prize opening control timer is 0 (step S402). If the value of the big prize opening control timer is not 0, the process is terminated.

  When the value of the big prize opening control timer is 0, the CPU 56 designates the big prize opening opening designation command (A1XX) for designating the display state according to the number of rounds during the opening of the big prize opening (during round). (H)) is transmitted to the production control microcomputer 100 (step S403). Note that the CPU 56 recognizes the number of rounds by checking the value of the number-of-releases counter for counting the number of rounds in the big hit game. Then, the CPU 56 controls to open the special winning opening (special variable winning ball apparatus 20) by driving the solenoid 21 (step S404) and decrements the value of the number-of-opening counter (step S405).

  Further, a value corresponding to the maximum time that the big prize opening can be opened in each round is set in the big prize opening control timer (step S406). For example, in the case of 15 round big hits, the maximum time is 29 seconds, and in the case of sudden probability big hit or small hit, the maximum time is 0.5 seconds. Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the step large winning opening opening process (step S306) (step S415).

  FIG. 25 and FIG. 26 are flowcharts showing the special prize opening process during the special symbol process (step S306). In the special prize opening opening process, the CPU 56 decrements the value of the special prize opening control timer by -1 (step S420).

  Then, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the value of the special winning opening control timer has become 0 (step S421). When the value of the big prize opening control timer is not 0, it is confirmed whether or not the count switch 23 is turned on (step S432). If the count switch 23 is not turned on, the process is terminated. When the count switch 23 is turned on, the value of the winning number counter for counting the number of winning game balls to the big winning opening is incremented by 1 (step S433). Then, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the winning number counter is a predetermined number (for example, 10) (step S434). If the value of the winning number counter is not a predetermined number, the process is terminated. Note that the determination order of S421 and S432 may be reversed.

  When the value of the big prize opening control timer is 0, or when the value of the winning number counter is a predetermined number, the CPU 56 performs control to drive the solenoid 21 and close the big prize opening (step). S435). Then, the value of the winning number counter is cleared (set to 0) (step S436).

  Next, the CPU 56 confirms the value of the opening number counter (step S438). When the value of the number-of-opening counter is not 0, the CPU 56 designates the post-big prize opening after-opening designation command (A2XX (H)) for designating the display state according to the number of rounds after the big prize opening is opened (after the end of the round). ) Is transmitted to the production control microcomputer 100 (step S439). Then, a value corresponding to the time (interval period) from the end of the round to the start of the next round (interval period) is set in the big prize opening control timer (step S440), and the value of the special symbol process flag is set to the big prize opening. The value is updated according to the pre-opening process (step S305) (step S441). The interval period is, for example, 5 seconds. In the case of sudden probability big hit or small hit, it may be shorter than 15R big hit.

  When the value of the number-of-opens counter is 0, the CPU 56 sets a value corresponding to the big hit end time (for example, a time for notifying that the big hit game has ended in the effect display device 9) in the big prize opening control timer. (Step S442), and the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the jackpot end process (Step S307) (Step S443).

  FIG. 27 is a flowchart showing the jackpot end process (step S307) in the special symbol process. In the jackpot end process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the jackpot end display timer is set (step S150). If the jackpot end display timer is set, the process proceeds to step S154. If the jackpot end display timer is not set, the jackpot flag is reset (step S151), and control for transmitting a jackpot end designation command is performed (step S152). Here, if it is a probable big hit, a big hit end 2 designation command is sent, if it is suddenly a probable big hit, a small hit / suddenly probable big hit end designation command is sent, and if it is none, the big hit ends 1 Send a designated command. Then, a value corresponding to the display time corresponding to the time during which the big hit end display is being performed in the image display device 9 (the big hit end display time) is set in the big hit end display timer (step S153), and the processing is ended. Note that the process of step S152 may be executed before step S442 in the special winning opening opening process.

  In step S154, 1 is subtracted from the value of the big hit end display timer. Then, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the jackpot end display timer is 0, that is, whether or not the jackpot end display time has elapsed (step S155). If not, the process ends. If it has elapsed, it is confirmed whether or not the type of jackpot is a probability variation jackpot or a sudden probability variation jackpot (step S158).

  If the big hit type is a probability change big hit or a sudden probability change big hit, the probability change flag is set and the gaming state is shifted to the probability change state (step S161). Then, the process proceeds to step S162. If neither the probability variation big hit nor sudden probability variation big hit is found, the time reduction flag is set (step S162), and for example, 100 is set in the time reduction number counter (step S163). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special symbol normal process (step S300) (step S164).

  Although the timers and flags to be handled are different, the small hit pre-release process in step S308 is the same as the big hit open pre-process in step S305, and the small hit open process in step S309 is during the big prize opening open in step S306. This is the same processing as the processing, and the small hitting end pre-processing in step S310 is similar to the big hitting end processing in step S307.

  Next, the operation of the effect control means will be described. FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing main processing executed by the effect control microcomputer 100 (specifically, the effect control CPU 101) as effect control means mounted on the effect control board 80. The effect control CPU 101 starts executing the main process when the power is turned on. In the main processing, first, initialization processing is performed for clearing the RAM area, setting various initial values, and initializing a timer for determining the activation control activation interval (for example, 2 ms) (step S701). . Thereafter, the effect control CPU 101 proceeds to a loop process for monitoring a timer interrupt flag (step S702). When a timer interrupt occurs, the effect control CPU 101 sets a timer interrupt flag in the timer interrupt process. If the timer interrupt flag is set in the main process, the effect control CPU 101 clears the flag (step S703) and executes the effect control process of steps S704 to S709.

  In the effect control process, the effect control CPU 101 first analyzes the received effect control command and performs a process of setting a flag according to the received effect control command (command analysis process: step S704). Next, the effect control CPU 101 performs effect control process processing (step S705). In the effect control process, the process corresponding to the current control state (effect control process flag) is selected from the processes corresponding to the control state, and display control of the effect display device 9 is executed.

  Next, a first decorative symbol display control process is performed (step S706). In the first decorative symbol display control process, display control of the first decorative symbol display 9a is executed. Further, a second decorative symbol display control process is performed (step S707). In the second decorative symbol display control process, display control of the second decorative symbol display 9b is executed. Further, a hold storage display control process for controlling the display state of the combined hold storage display unit 18c is executed (step S708). Furthermore, a random number update process for updating the count value of the counter for generating a random number used for determining the effect mode and the like is executed (step S709). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S702. As in the special symbol process executed by the game control microcomputer 560, the first ornament symbol display control process and the second ornament symbol display control process are made common, that is, realized by one program module. Thus, the capacity of the program executed by the production control microcomputer 100 may be reduced.

  29 and 30 are flowcharts showing a specific example of the command analysis process (step S704). The effect control command received from the main board 31 is stored in the reception command buffer, but in the command analysis process, the effect control CPU 101 confirms the content of the command stored in the command reception buffer.

  In the command analysis process, the effect control CPU 101 first checks whether or not a reception command is stored in a command reception buffer formed in the RAM (step S611). Whether it is stored or not is determined by comparing the value of the command reception number counter with the read pointer. The case where both match is the case where the received command is not stored. If the reception command is stored in the command reception buffer, the effect control CPU 101 reads the reception command from the command reception buffer (step S612). When read, the value of the read pointer is incremented by +2 (step S613). The reason for +2 is that 2 bytes (1 command) are read at a time.

  As the command reception buffer, for example, a command reception buffer in a ring buffer format capable of storing six 2-byte effect control commands is used. Therefore, the command reception buffer is configured by a 12-byte area of reception command buffers 1 to 12. A command reception number counter indicating in which area the received command is stored is used. The command reception number counter takes a value from 0 to 11. The ring buffer format is not necessarily required.

  The effect control command transmitted from the game control microcomputer 560 is received by an interrupt process based on the effect control INT signal and stored in the command reception buffer. In the command analysis process, it is analyzed which command (see FIG. 14) is the effect control command stored in the buffer area.

  If the received effect control command is a variation pattern command (step S614), the effect control CPU 101 stores the variation pattern command in a variation pattern command storage area formed in the RAM (step S615). Then, a variation pattern command reception flag is set (step S616).

  If the received effect control command is a display result specifying command (step S617), the effect control CPU 101 forms the display result specifying command (one of display result 1 specifying command to display result 5 specifying command) in the RAM. The displayed display result specifying command storage area is stored (step S618).

  If the received effect control command is a symbol confirmation designation command (step S621), the effect control CPU 101 sets a confirmed command reception flag (step S622).

  If the received effect control command is a jackpot start 1 designation command or a jackpot start 2 designation command (step S623), the effect control CPU 101 sets a jackpot start 1 designation command reception flag or a jackpot start 2 designation command reception flag ( Step S624). If the received effect control command is a small hit / sudden probability sudden change big hit start designation command (step S625), the production control CPU 101 sets a small hit / sudden probability change big hit start designation command reception flag (step S626).

  If the received effect control command is the first symbol variation designation command (step S627), the first symbol variation designation command reception flag is set (step S628). If the received effect control command is the second symbol variation designation command (step S629), the second symbol variation designation command reception flag is set (step S630).

  If the received effect control command is a power-on specification command (initialization specification command) (step S631), the effect control CPU 101 displays an initial screen on the effect display device 9 indicating that the initialization process has been executed. Control is performed (step S632). The initial screen includes an initial display of predetermined production symbols.

  If the received effect control command is a power failure recovery designation command (step S633), a predetermined power failure recovery screen (screen for displaying information notifying the player that the gaming state is continuing) is displayed. Display control is performed (step S634).

  If the received effect control command is a jackpot end 1 designation command or a jackpot end 2 designation command (step S641), the effect control CPU 101 sets a jackpot end 1 designation command reception flag or a jackpot end 2 designation command reception flag ( Step S642). If the received effect control command is a small hit / sudden probability change big hit end designation command (step S643), the production control CPU 101 sets a small hit / sudden probability change big hit end designation command reception flag (step S644).

  If the received effect control command is a special winning opening open designation command (step S645), the production control CPU 101 sets a special winning opening open flag (step S646). Further, if the received effect control command is a designation command after opening the big prize opening (step S647), the production control CPU 101 sets a flag after opening the big prize opening (step S648).

  If the received effect control command is another command, the effect control CPU 101 sets a flag corresponding to the received effect control command (step S649). Then, control goes to a step S611.

  FIG. 31 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a variable display mode of decorative symbols (first decorative symbol and second decorative symbol). In this embodiment, the first decorative symbol display 9a and the second decorative symbol display 9b are composed of two LEDs. And as shown in FIG. 31, it lights alternately every predetermined time (for example, 0.5 second). When the display result of the special symbol is a jackpot symbol, the upper LED is turned on as a display result of a decorative symbol reminiscent of the jackpot (see FIG. 31A). Further, when the display result of the special symbol is changed to the off symbol, the lower LED is turned on as the display result of the decorative symbol reminiscent of the off symbol (see FIG. 31B).

  FIG. 32 is an explanatory diagram showing random numbers used by the production control microcomputer 100. As shown in FIG. 32, in this embodiment, the microcomputer 100 for effect control includes random numbers SR1-1 to SR1-3 for determining the first to third final stop symbols, random numbers for determining the temporary stop symbol at the time of sliding. SR3, quasi-continuous first variation temporary stop symbol determination random number SR4-1, quasi-continuous second variation temporary stop symbol determination random number SR4-2, notice effect determination random number SR5-1, notice effect addition determination Random number SR5-2, random number SR5-3 for determining the additional notice effect, and random number SR6-1 for determining the first specific effect (slip) pattern. Note that random numbers other than these may be used in order to enhance the effect.

  The random number SR4-1 of the temporary change symbol at the time of the first quasi-continuous change is an effect symbol (temporary stop display) in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” symbol display areas 9L, 9C, and 9R after the first change. The random number SR4-2 of the pseudo-continuous second variation temporary stop symbol is “left”, “middle”, “right” after the subsequent re-variation to be executed. ”Is a random number used to determine an effect symbol (temporary stop symbol) to be temporarily stopped and displayed in the symbol display areas 9L, 9C, and 9R.

  The random number SR3 for determining the slip temporary stop symbol is used for temporarily or partially in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” symbol display areas 9L, 9C, and 9R when the specific effect of “slip” is executed. It is a random number used to determine the effect symbol (temporary stop symbol) to be stopped and displayed.

  The random number SR5-1 for determining the notice effect is a random number used for determining the notice effect to be executed. Specifically, the random number SR5-1 for determining the notice effect determines whether or not to execute the notice effect, whether the type of the notice effect is the first step-up notice effect or the second step-up notice effect, It is used to determine to which stage (step) the step-up notice effect to be executed is developed (also referred to as the upper limit number of steps). The random number SR5-2 for determining the advance notice effect is a random number used for determining whether or not another notice effect is executed simultaneously with the notice effect determined using the random number SR-1. For example, when the first step-up notice effect is determined as the type of the notice effect, the effect control CPU 101 determines whether to execute the second step-up notice effect simultaneously using the random number SR5-2. When the second step-up notice effect is determined as the type of the notice effect, the effect control CPU 101 uses the random number SR5-2 to determine whether or not to simultaneously execute the first step-up notice effect. The details of the first step-up notice effect and the second step-up notice effect will be described later.

  In the present embodiment, the step-up notice effect includes two types of the first step-up notice effect and the second step-up notice effect, but may include three or more types. In the present embodiment, only one of the first step-up notice effect and the second step-up notice effect can be executed, but the third step-up notice effect is used as another step-up notice effect. The third step-up notice effect may be provided only when the first step-up notice effect or the second step-up notice effect is provided.

  The random number SR5-3 for determining the additional notice effect is a random number used for determining the content of the step-up notice effect (upper limit step number, etc.) to be added and executed simultaneously. The random number SR6-1 for determining the first specific effect pattern is used to determine the specific effect pattern corresponding to the content of the effect operation when executing the specific effect of “slip” as one of a plurality of types. Random number.

  FIG. 33 is a flowchart showing the effect control process (step S705) in the main process shown in FIG. In the effect control process, the effect control CPU 101 performs one of steps S800 to S808 according to the value of the effect control process flag. In each process, the following process is executed.

  Fluctuation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800): It is confirmed whether or not a variation pattern command has been received from the game control microcomputer 560. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not the variation pattern command reception flag set in the command analysis process is set. If the change pattern command has been received, the value of the effect control process flag is changed to a value corresponding to the effect symbol change start process (step S801).

  Effect symbol variation start processing (step S801): Control is performed so that the variation of the effect symbol and the decorative symbol is started. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the effect symbol changing process (step S802).

  Production symbol variation processing (step S802): Controls the switching timing of each variation state (variation speed) constituting the variation pattern and monitors the end of the variation time. When the variation time ends, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the effect symbol variation stop process (step S803).

  Production symbol variation stop processing (step S803): Based on the reception of the production control command (design confirmation designation command) for instructing all symbols to stop, the variation of the production symbol (and decoration symbol) is stopped and the display result (stop symbol) ) Is derived and displayed. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the jackpot display process (step S804) or the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800).

  Big hit display processing (step S804): After the end of the variation time, control is performed to display a screen for notifying the effect display device 9 of the occurrence of big hit or small hit. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the in-round processing (step S805).

  In-round processing (step S805): Display control during round is performed. In addition, in a gaming machine that executes a so-called probability change promotion effect, a probability change promotion effect is executed when the flag of the probability change promotion effect execution flag indicating execution of the probability change promotion effect is set. If the round end condition is satisfied, if the final round has not ended, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the post-round processing (step S806). If the final round has ended, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the jackpot end process (step S807).

  Post-round processing (step S806): Display control between rounds is performed. When the round start condition is satisfied, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the in-round process (step S805).

  Big hit end process (step S807): In the effect display device 9, display control is performed to notify the player that the big hit gaming state has ended. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800).

  FIG. 34 is a flowchart showing a variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800) in the effect control process shown in FIG. In the variation pattern command reception waiting process, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the variation pattern command reception flag is set (step S811). If the variation pattern command reception flag is set, the variation pattern command reception flag is reset (step S812). Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the effect symbol variation start process (step S801) (step S813).

  FIG. 35 is a flowchart showing the effect symbol variation start process (step S801) in the effect control process shown in FIG. In the effect symbol variation start process, the effect control CPU 101 reads the received variation pattern command from the RAM variation pattern command storage area (step S820).

  When the variation pattern indicated by the variation pattern command is a variation pattern with a temporary stop (Y in step S821), the effect control CPU 101 extracts a temporary stop symbol determination random number and determines a temporary stop symbol. The determination result is stored in the storage area of the RAM (step S822).

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not it is determined to make a big hit or a small hit (step S823). The effect control CPU 101 can confirm whether or not it is determined to make a big hit or a small hit from data (display result specifying command) stored in the display result specifying command storage area. If it is not determined to make a big hit or a small hit, the process proceeds to step S826.

  When it is determined to be a big hit or a small hit, the CPU 101 for effect control extracts the first final stop symbol determining random number SR1-1, and the left, middle and right final stop symbols based on the extracted random number. Is determined (step S824). Then, control goes to a step S825.

  In this embodiment, the left symbol and the determination value by the first final stop symbol determining random number are set correspondingly for the big hit symbol and the small hit symbol (chance chance in the case of big hit / small hit). The left symbol is determined using the table, and the symbol with 1 added to the left symbol is the middle symbol, and the symbol with 1 added to the middle symbol is the right symbol. , Providing a table in which the first final stop symbol determining random number and the determination value to be compared are set correspondingly, and using the first final stop symbol determining random number directly, the sudden big hit symbol and the small hit symbol ( The left middle right symbol combination) may be determined. In other words, from the big hit symbol and small hit symbol set in the table, the big hit symbol and small hit symbol corresponding to the determination value matching the first final stop symbol determining random number may be selected.

  In step S826, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not to reach. Whether or not to reach is confirmed by the variation pattern command stored in the variation pattern command storage area. When not reaching, the production control CPU 101 extracts the first to third final stop symbol determination random numbers SR1-1 to SR1-3, and determines the left middle right final stop symbol based on the extracted random numbers. (Step S827). Then, control goes to a step S825. When the determined left, middle, and right final stop symbol matches the reach symbol (the left and right symbols match), the chance eye, or the pseudo-continuous symbol, the effect control CPU 101 selects one of the left, middle, and right symbols. Shift it so that it does not match the reach symbol, chance chance, or pseudo-continuous symbol.

  When not reaching, the production control CPU 101 extracts the first and second final stop symbol determination random numbers SR1-1 and SR1-2, and determines the left, middle and right final stop symbols based on the extracted random numbers. (Step S828). In this case, for example, the left and right symbols are determined according to the value of the first final stop symbol determining random number SR1-1, and the middle symbol is determined according to the value of the second final stop symbol determining random number SR1-2. When the determined final stop symbol becomes a big hit symbol, the middle symbol is shifted so that it does not coincide with the big hit symbol. Then, control goes to a step S825.

  In step S825, the effect control CPU 101 stores data indicating the left middle right effect symbols determined in the processes of steps S822, S824, S826, and S827 in the storage area of the RAM.

  On the other hand, if the probability variation latency flag is not set, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the probability variation big hit or small hit suddenly occurs (step S830). Whether or not sudden probability change big hit or small hit is made (whether or not it is determined to make sudden probability change big hit or small hit) is confirmed by, for example, data stored in the display result specifying command storage area. In this embodiment, it is possible to confirm whether or not suddenly a probable big hit or a small hit is made depending on the determined stop pattern. When suddenly a big hit or a small hit is likely, the effect control CPU 101 sets a probability change latent mode entry flag (step S831). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S832A. In addition, when the big hit game or the small hit game ends, if the probability variation latent mode entry flag is set, the effect state shifts to the probability variation latent mode.

  In step S832A, the effect control CPU 101 executes a notice effect setting process for determining and setting the content of the notice effect (step S832A). The details of the notice effect setting process will be described later. Thereafter, the production control CPU 101 selects a process table corresponding to the variation pattern (step S832B). Then, the process timer in the process data 1 of the selected process table is started (step S833).

  FIG. 36 is an explanatory diagram of a configuration example of the process table. The process table is a table in which process data referred to when the effect control CPU 101 executes control of the effect device is set. That is, the effect control CPU 101 controls effect devices (effect components) such as the effect display device 9 according to the process data set in the process table. The process table includes data in which a plurality of combinations of process timer set values, display control execution data, lamp control execution data, and sound number data are collected. In the display control execution data, data indicating each variation aspect constituting the variation aspect during the variable display time (variation time) of the variable display of the effect symbols is described. Specifically, data relating to the change of the display screen of the effect display device 9 is described. The process timer set value is set with a change time in the form of the change. The effect control CPU 101 refers to the process table and performs control to display the effect design in the variation mode set in the display control execution data for the time set in the process timer set value.

  The process table shown in FIG. 36 is stored in the ROM of the effect control board 80.

  In this embodiment, the image data related to the variation of the effect design is not set in the process table. The effect design fluctuation itself is directly controlled by the effect control CPU 101 without using the process table.

  The production control CPU 101 performs the production device (the production display device 9 as the production component, various lamps as the production component) according to the contents of the process data 1 (display control execution data 1, lamp control execution data 1, sound number data 1). And the control of the speaker 27) as a production component is executed (step S834). For example, a command is output to the VDP 109 in order to display an image according to the variation pattern on the effect display device 9. In addition, a control signal (lamp control execution data) is output to the lamp driver board 35 in order to perform on / off control of various lamps. In addition, a control signal (sound number data) is output to the sound output board 70 in order to output sound from the speaker 27.

  In this embodiment, the effect control CPU 101 performs control so that the effect symbol is variably displayed by the change pattern corresponding to the change pattern command on a one-to-one basis. The variation pattern to be used may be selected from a plurality of types of variation patterns corresponding to.

  Then, a value corresponding to the variation time specified by the variation pattern command is set in the variation time timer (step S835). Thereafter, the value of the effect control process flag is set to a value corresponding to the effect symbol changing process (step S802) (step S836).

  Further, when writing the image data in a predetermined area of the VRAM, the effect control CPU 101 actually performs control to write the image data into the VRAM by, for example, a V blank interrupt process based on the V blank interrupt. Therefore, the effect control CPU 101 temporarily stores data to be written to the VRAM in a predetermined area of the RAM, and performs control to write the data in the predetermined area of the RAM to the VRAM by the V blank interrupt process. The V blank interrupt is an interrupt generated by the VDP 109 in the same cycle as the cycle of the vertical synchronization signal supplied to the effect display device 9. For example, when the screen change frequency (frame frequency) of the effect display device 9 is 30 Hz, the generation period of the V blank interruption is 33.3 ms, and when the frame frequency is 60 Hz, the occurrence of the V blank interruption is generated. The period is 16.7 ms. In this example, data is written to the VRAM by the V blank interrupt processing, but data may be written to the VRAM in other processing. The other processing is, for example, timer interruption based on a timer built in for production control or processing during production symbol variation. In addition, when the process which writes data in VRAM in other processes is performed, it is preferable to perform the process for synchronizing with an execution period and the period of V blank interruption regularly, for example.

  FIG. 36 is an explanatory diagram of a configuration example of the process table. The process table is a table in which process data referred to when the effect control CPU 101 executes control of the effect device is set. That is, the effect control CPU 101 controls effect devices (effect components) such as the effect display device 9 according to the process data set in the process table. The process table includes data in which a plurality of combinations of process timer set values, display control execution data, lamp control execution data, sound number data, and movable member control data are collected. The display control execution data includes, for example, data indicating each variation mode constituting the variation mode during the variable display time (variation time) of the variable display of the effect symbol (display of the effect display device 9 in addition to the display mode of the effect symbol) (Including other aspects of the screen) Specifically, data relating to the change of the display screen of the effect display device 9 is described. Further, the production time in the production mode is set in the process timer set value. The effect control CPU 101 refers to the process table, displays the effect design in the form set in the display control execution data for the time set in the process timer set value, and displays the character image or background displayed on the display screen. Control to display. In addition, the flashing of the light emitter is controlled in a manner set in the lamp control execution data and the sound number data, and the sound output from the speaker 27 is controlled. Further, the movable member 78 and the effect blades 79a and 79b are controlled in a manner set in the movable member control data.

  The process table shown in FIG. 36 is stored in the ROM of the effect control board 80. The process table is prepared according to the contents of each effect control pattern and notice effect. If it is determined to execute the notice effect in the process of step S832A, the data corresponding to the notice effect is set, the process table is selected, and it is not determined to execute the notice effect. The process table for which data corresponding to the notice effect is not set is selected.

  FIG. 37 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the effects executed in accordance with the contents of the process table. The effect control CPU 101 executes display control according to effect control execution data in the process table. That is, when the time according to the timer value set as the process timer set value elapses, according to the next effect control execution data in the process table, the effect display device 9, the light emitter such as the LED, the speaker 27, the movable member 78, and By repeating the process of controlling the effect blades 79a and 79b, an effect in the change of the effect symbol is realized. Note that dummy data (data not specifying control) is set in data (for example, movable member control data) corresponding to a production component that is not controlled during the variation period.

  When the effect control CPU 101 executes the process of step S833, the effect control device (effect design symbol is displayed in accordance with the contents of the process data 1 (display control execution data 1, lamp control execution data 1, sound number data 1, movable member control data 1). Control of the effect display device 9 as an effect part to be variably displayed, various lamps as an effect part, the speaker 27 as an effect part, and the movable member 78 and effect blades 79a and 79b) as effect parts. Start (step S834). For example, in accordance with the display control execution data, an instruction is output to the VDP 109 in order to display an image (including an effect symbol) corresponding to the variation pattern on the effect display device 9. In addition, a control signal (lamp control execution data) is output to the lamp driver board 35 in order to perform on / off control of various lamps. In addition, a control signal (sound number data) is output to the sound output board 70 in order to output sound from the speaker 27. Further, a drive signal for operating the movable member 78 is output in accordance with the movable member control data. Moreover, according to the movable member control data, a drive signal for operating the effect blades 79a and 79b is output.

  Then, a value corresponding to the variation time specified by the variation pattern command is set in the variation time timer (step S835), and the value of the effect control process flag is set to a value corresponding to the effect symbol changing process (step S802). (Step S836).

  FIG. 38 is a flowchart showing the notice effect setting process in step S832A. In the notice effect setting process, the effect control CPU 101 determines the notice effect using the notice effect determination table shown in FIG. 39 based on the random number SR5-1 for determining the notice effect (step S570). More specifically, the effect control CPU 101 extracts the value of the random number SR5-1 for determining the notice effect, and stores it in the notice effect determination table provided for the time when the extracted random number is different from the extracted random value, when the big hit, or when there is a chance. Compare with the set judgment value. Based on the notice effect assigned to the determination value that matches the random value (“none”, “first step up notice (step number 1)”...), The presence / absence of the notice effect and the effect mode are determined. . In this embodiment, the effect control CPU 101 executes an effect suggesting a big hit expectation degree in the first step-up notice, and executes an effect suggesting suddenness in the second step-up notice. Also, in this embodiment, an effect that suggests the development of a different game depending on the type of step-up notice is executed. However, the effect is not limited to an effect that suggests a big hit expectation or a certainty, for example, suggests the continuation of a pseudo-ream An effect may be executed. In addition to the jackpot expectation, sudden expectation, and pseudo-continuation expectation, the step-up notice suggests that there is a high-precision expectation, a high-expected expectation, and a look-ahead notice with a look-ahead notice. The continuation expectation degree of the notice and the jackpot expectation degree with the target hold may be suggested, and the step-up notice executed at the same time may be any combination thereof. In addition, a combination of step-up notices that suggest the same thing may be used, and in that case, the number of displayed steps may be made different from each other.

  As shown in FIG. 39, a predetermined number of determination values are assigned to each effect mode in the offending notice effect determination table (FIG. 39A). The numbers included in the table indicate the number of determination values assigned to each effect mode. The same applies to the jackpot notice effect determination table (FIG. 39 (b)) and the surprise notice effect determination table (FIG. 39 (c)).

  As shown in FIG. 39, in this embodiment, in the notice effect setting process, the effect control CPU 101 determines that there is no notice effect with a probability of 60% when it is off, and with a probability of 10% when it is a big hit or when it is suddenly hit. It is determined that there is no notice effect. Further, as shown in FIG. 39, in this embodiment, the probability of the first step-up notice being executed at the time of big hit is higher than that at the time of hit, and the second step-up notice is executed at the time of hit, compared to the case of the big hit. There is a high probability.

  In this embodiment, whether or not there is a step-up notice effect (first step-up notice effect, second step-up notice effect) and the effect mode are determined regardless of the type of jackpot (except for the accuracy) at the time of the big hit. The same jackpot notice effect determination table (FIG. 39B) is used. However, instead of using the same jackpot notice effect determination table for all big hit types, it is provided with a notice effect decision table to be used for each of the normal big hit, probable big hit, sudden probable big hit and small hit, and notice corresponding to the big hit type The presence / absence of the step-up notice effect (first step-up notice effect, second step-up notice effect) and the effect mode may be determined using the effect determination table. In this case, by changing the distribution of the determination value for the notice effect in each notice effect determination table, the execution ratio of the step-up notice and the appearance ratio of the effect mode can be varied according to the type of jackpot. For example, it is possible to further enhance the interest by setting the table so that the probability variation big hit is more easily selected than the normal big hit.

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 sets the step-up flag when the determination result in step S570 executes the notice effect (Y in step S571) (step S572). Next, the effect control CPU 101 determines whether to add the notice effect and execute it simultaneously using the notice effect addition determination table shown in FIG. 40, based on the random number SR5-2 for determining the notice effect addition. (Step S573). As shown in FIG. 40, in this embodiment, the effect control CPU 101 executes another notice effect simultaneously with a probability of 20% at the time of losing, and other notice effect with a probability of 80% at other times. Run at the same time.

  In this embodiment, two types of step-up notice effects and first step-up notice effects are provided as step-up notice effects, but three or more kinds may be provided. In the present embodiment, only one of the first step-up notice effect and the second step-up notice effect can be executed, but the third step-up notice effect is used as another step-up notice effect. When the third step-up notice effect is provided, it may be executed simultaneously with the first step-up notice effect or the second step-up notice effect. That is, the third step-up notice effect is executed only when it is determined in step S573 that a notice effect is added and executed simultaneously.

  Next, when the result of determination in step S571 adds and executes the notice effect (Y in step S573), the effect control CPU 101 shows the result shown in FIG. 41 based on the random number SR5-3 for determining the additional notice effect. Using the additional notice effect determination table, the upper limit number of notice effects to be executed simultaneously is determined (step S574).

  In this embodiment, in order to simplify the explanation, the upper limit number of step-up notice effects that are additionally executed simultaneously is determined to be equal to or less than the upper limit number of step-up notice effects that are executed in advance. However, it is desirable that it can be set to be equal to or more than the upper limit number of step-up notice effects to be executed in advance. When the table shown in FIG. 41 is used, there is no possibility that the smaller step number will be selected as the step-up notice effect to be selected and displayed later. Because it ends up.

  In this embodiment, the step-up notice effect (that is, the type of step-up notice effect determined in step S570) executed in advance is described as being selected and displayed. The step-up notice effect may be executed in advance or may be executed later. For example, the main step-up notice effect that is finally selected and displayed and the sub step-up notice effect that is not selected and displayed are determined, and which step-up notice effect is to be executed in advance is determined, and the determination result The notice effect may be executed according to the following. In addition, when the step-up notices executed simultaneously indicate that both are in the same gaming state (for example, the degree of expectation of jackpot), the jackpot expectation degree suggested by step-up notice A and the jackpot suggested by step-up notice B The degree of expectation may be reversed at a predetermined stage. For example, as shown in FIG. 50, it is suggested that the step-up notice A has a higher degree of expectation until step 2, but the step-up notice B has a higher expectation degree after step 3. You may make it do.

  In this embodiment, the first step-up notice effect is a notice effect (a plurality of stages (from the first stage) at a predetermined timing in accordance with a predetermined order during one symbol change (variable display). For example, a notice effect that informs the player in stages that there is a possibility of a big hit by changing (developing) the notice effect up to the fourth stage) one or more times. In this embodiment, the player is notified that the probability of a big hit is higher as the number of times of changing the notice effect increases (the more the notice effect is executed in multiple stages). The first step-up notice effect may end without the first notice effect being changed.

  In this embodiment, as will be described later (see FIG. 46, etc.), the contents of the first step-up notice effect appear as characters (vehicles moving on an airway) step by step at the bottom of the display screen of the effect display device 9. It is a production that will let you. Detailed contents of the first step-up notice effect will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Further, in this embodiment, the second step-up notice effect is a notice effect (multiple from the first stage) at a predetermined timing in accordance with a predetermined order during one change of symbol (variable display). This refers to a notice effect that informs the player step by step that there is a possibility that it will become abrupt by changing (developing) one or more times (e.g., notice effect up to the fourth stage). In this embodiment, the player is informed that the probability of suddenness increases as the number of times of changing the notice effect increases (the more the notice effect is executed in multiple stages). The second step-up notice effect may end without the first notice effect changing.

  In this embodiment, as will be described later (see FIG. 46, etc.), the contents of the second step-up notice effect appear in stages at the lower part of the display screen of the effect display device 9 (vehicles moving on land). It is a production that will let you. Detailed contents of the second step-up notice effect will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Note that the step-up notice effect may be such that the shape and color of one character changes, and the state of the notice means (display, sound, lamp, movable object, etc.) as seen from the player changes step by step. If it can be recognized as “step-up notice”, it can be said.

  Further, in the case of providing a third step-up notice effect that is executed simultaneously with the first step-up notice effect or the second step-up notice effect, the third step-up notice effect is, for example, a single symbol change (variable display). ) By changing (developing) the notice effect (the notice effect from the first stage to a plurality of stages (for example, the fourth stage)) one or more times at a predetermined timing according to a predetermined order. You may notify a player in steps that there is a possibility that a ream will continue.

  Note that “a step-up notice effect X is simultaneously executed” means that, when a certain step-up notice effect X is prepared, after a one-stage effect is started in the same manner as the step-up notice effect X, This is to execute another step-up notice effect Y that develops in an aspect different from the effect executed during the step-up notice effect X simultaneously with the step-up notice effect X. Note that the timing of starting execution of the other step-up notice effect Y may be any stage in the step-up notice effect X. In addition, for example, the step-up notice effect X that is executed in advance may have a higher appearance ratio than the step-up notice effect Y that is executed later. By doing so, it can be expected that other step-up notice effects will be executed later, and the interest can be enhanced.

  The presence / absence of the notice effect and the effect aspect determined as described above are stored (set) in a predetermined storage area (notice effect storage area) of the ROM in the effect control microcomputer 100.

  42 to 44 are flowcharts showing the effect symbol variation processing (step S802) in the effect control process. In the effect symbol changing process, the effect control CPU 101 subtracts 1 from the value of the process timer (step S840A) and subtracts 1 from the value of the change time timer (step S840B). When the process timer times out (Y in step S841), the process data is switched. That is, the process timer is started again by setting the process timer setting value set next in the process table in the process timer (step S842). Further, the control state for the effect device (effect part) is changed based on the display control execution data, lamp control execution data, sound number data, and movable member control data set next (step S843).

  Next, in step S844, the effect control CPU 101 executes a step-up notice effect (first step-up notice effect, second step-up notice effect) according to the contents of the process data (display control execution data or the like). And it is determined whether the step-up flag is set (step S844). Whether or not the step-up notice effect is being executed is determined based on, for example, whether or not the process data being executed includes the execution of the step-up notice effect, or a step-up notice effect flag at the start of the step-up notice effect. Can be determined by checking the status of the flag. When the step-up notice effect is executed and the step-up flag is set (Y in step S844), the effect control CPU 101 uses the timing of switching the step-up notice effect based on the contents of the process data. It is determined whether or not there is (step S845). If it is the switching timing of the step-up notice effect (Y in step S845), the effect control CPU 101 follows the contents of the process data (particularly, display control execution data including the notice effect, lamp control execution data, and movable member control data). The step-up notice effect is switched (changed, developed) (step S848), and the step-up counter is incremented by 1 (step S847). In this case, in step S843 to be executed thereafter, the first step-up notice effect and the second step-up notice effect are executed in a step-up manner.

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 determines whether or not there is a step-up notice effect that is simultaneously executed based on the contents of the process data (display control execution data and the like) and the step-up counter is 2 (step S848). ). If it is determined that there is a step-up notice effect to be executed at the same time and the step-up counter is 2 (Y in step S848), the effect control CPU 101 performs other steps in addition to the currently executed step-up notice effect. The up notice effect is simultaneously executed (step S849). In this embodiment, an example in which another step-up notice effect is added and executed simultaneously when the step-up notice effect to be executed in advance is in the second stage will be described. However, the present invention is not limited to this and may be at any stage.

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 determines whether or not the step-up counter matches the upper limit number of steps (step S850). If it is determined that the step-up counter matches the upper limit number of steps (Y in step S850), the effect control CPU 101 executes an operation effective period effect indicating that the operation button 120 is operable ( Step S851). Then, the production control CPU 101 executes processing for detecting whether or not the operation button 120 is turned on (pressed). The on state of the operation button 120 is detected by inputting an on signal from the operation button 120. When the effect control CPU 101 detects that the operation button 120 is turned on (Y in step S852), the effect control CPU 101 selectively displays the step-up notice effect determined in step S570 (step S854).

  On the other hand, if the operation button 120 is not detected to be turned on (N in step S852) and the operation valid period has ended (Y in step S853), the effect control CPU 101 resets the step-up flag. When the step-up flag is reset, the step-up notice effect is not switched (changed or developed) in step S846, and the operation valid period effect is still executed.

  Thereafter, if the variation time timer has timed out (step S856), the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the effect symbol variation stop process (step S803) (step S858). Even if the variable time timer has not timed out, if the confirmation command reception flag indicating that the symbol confirmation designation command has been received is set (Y in step S857), the process proceeds to step S848. Even if the variation time timer has not timed out, if the symbol confirmation designation command is received, the process shifts to control to stop variation.For example, a variation pattern command indicating a long variation time due to noise between substrates is received. Even in such a case, it is possible to end the variation of the effect symbol when the regular variation time has elapsed (when the variation of the special symbol ends).

  In the example shown in FIG. 43, the operation effective period effect is executed when the step-up counter matches the upper limit step number in step S850, but this upper limit step number is executed in advance. Even if it is the upper limit step number of the notice effect, it may be the upper limit step number of the step-up notice effect that is added and executed later. Also, the upper limit step number whichever is larger or smaller may be used. Moreover, it is not limited to the timing at which any upper limit step number is reached, but may be any timing.

  In the case where the processes of steps S840B to S843 are executed based on the fluctuation pattern including the “pseudo-continuous” effect, as described above, the effect display device 9 is configured to execute a plurality of times of effect symbol pseudo-variation. Display control is executed. In other words, effect control data indicating the effect of the pseudo-continuous is also set in the process table corresponding to the pseudo-continuous variation pattern.

  FIG. 45 is a flowchart showing the effect symbol variation stop process (step S803) in the effect control process. In the effect symbol variation stop process, first, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not a stop symbol display flag indicating that the stop symbol of the effect symbol is being displayed is set (step S870). If the stop symbol display flag is set, the process proceeds to step S877. In this embodiment, when a big hit symbol is displayed as the stop symbol of the effect symbol, a stop symbol display flag is set in step S876. Then, the stop symbol display flag is reset when the fanfare effect is executed. Accordingly, the fact that the stop symbol display flag is set is a stage where the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed but the fanfare effect is not yet executed, and therefore the processing of displaying the stop symbol of the effect symbol in steps S871 to S876. Without execution, the process proceeds to step S877.

  When the stop symbol display flag is not set, the effect control CPU 101 sets a confirmation command reception flag indicating that the effect control command (design confirmation designation command) for instructing to stop changing the effect symbol is received. It is confirmed whether or not there is (step S871). If the confirmation command reception flag is set, control is performed to stop and display the determined stop symbol (outgoing symbol, small hit symbol or big hit symbol) (step S872).

  In this embodiment, the effect control CPU 101 performs control to stop and display the effect symbol in response to receiving the symbol confirmation designation command from the game control microcomputer 560, but the variable time timer has timed out. Based on that, the effect design may be stopped and displayed.

  When the small winning symbol or the big winning display symbol is not displayed in the process of step S872 (that is, when the off symbol is displayed), the effect control CPU 101 changes the value of the effect control process flag to the background change process (step S808). ) To a value according to (step S874).

  When the small hit symbol or the big hit symbol is stopped and displayed in the process of step S872, the CPU 101 for effect control sets a stop symbol display flag (step S876) and specifies the big hit start designation indicating that the big hit start designation command has been received. Command reception flag (big hit start 1 designation command reception flag or big hit start 2 designation command reception flag) or small hit / sudden probability sudden change big hit start designation command reception flag indicating that a small hit / sudden probability sudden change big hit start designation command has been received is set It is confirmed whether or not (step S877). When the big hit start designation command reception flag or the small hit / sudden probability sudden change big hit start designation command reception flag is set, the CPU 101 for effect control resets the stop symbol display flag (step S878), and according to the fanfare effect. A process table is selected (step S879).

  When the big hit start designation command reception flag or the small hit / sudden probability sudden change big hit start designation command reception flag is set, the effect control CPU 101 resets the set flag. In the process of step S879, the CPU 101 for effect control is determined when the normal big hit or the probable big hit is determined (specifically, when the display result 2 designation command or the display result 3 designation command is received). Selects the process table corresponding to “15-time open game start notification” and is determined to be a small hit or suddenly probable big hit (specifically, a display result 4 designation command or a display result 5 designation command is received) ), A process table corresponding to “twice open game start notification (suddenly probable big hit / small hit common)” is selected. Then, the process timer is started by setting the process timer set value in the process timer (step S880), and the contents of the process data 1 (display control execution data 1, lamp control execution data 1, sound number data 1, movable member control) In accordance with data 1, the production device (production display device 9 as production component, various lamps as production component, speaker 27 as production component, movable member 78 as production component and production blade accessory 79a, 79b ) Is executed (step S881). Thereafter, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the jackpot display process (step S804) (step S882).

  Next, a specific example of the step-up notice effect according to this embodiment will be described. FIG. 46 is an explanatory diagram showing the contents of a step-up notice effect that is executed simultaneously with the addition of the second step-up notice to the first step-up notice. In the example shown in FIG. 46, as the first step-up notice, an effect is presented in which an image of a vehicle that moves on an airway in stages appears in a predetermined area of the display screen of the effect display device 9. Specifically, the first stage is a balloon, the second stage is a propeller, the third stage is a jet, and the fourth stage is a rocket. In the example shown in FIG. 46, as the second step-up notice, an effect of causing an image of a vehicle moving on the land road in stages is performed in a predetermined area of the display screen of the effect display device 9. Specifically, a bicycle (not shown) is produced in the first stage, a moped bicycle in the second stage, a motorcycle in the third stage, and a car in the fourth stage.

  In the example shown in FIG. 46, when the step-up notice effect is executed, the effect that the balloon, which is the first stage image of the first step-up notice, appears in a predetermined area of the display screen of the effect display device 9 is performed. (FIG. 46 (a)). Next, when the first step-up notice is developed to the second stage, an effect is produced in which a propeller machine that is an image of the second stage of the first step-up notice appears. Here, when it is determined that other step-up notices are to be executed simultaneously (Y in step S572, S848), the motorbike that is the image of the second stage of the second step-up notice is used together with the propeller aircraft. An effect that appears is performed (FIG. 46B).

  Next, when the first step-up notice develops to the third stage, a jet that is the third stage image of the first step-up notice and a motorcycle that is the third stage image of the second step-up notice appear. An effect is performed (FIG. 46 (c)). In addition, when the first step-up notice develops to the fourth stage, the rocket that is the fourth stage image of the first step-up notice and the car that is the fourth stage image of the second step-up notice appear. Is performed (FIG. 46D).

  Next, when the first step-up notice is developed to a predetermined stage, an operation effective period effect that prompts the operation of the operation button 120 is performed while the rocket and the car are displayed (FIG. 46E). In the example shown in FIG. 46 (e), the operation effective period effect is performed by displaying the operation button 120 and the image labeled “PUSH!” For 3 seconds in a predetermined area of the display screen of the effect display device 9. ing.

  When the operation button 120 is operated during the operation valid period, only a predetermined rocket image is selected and displayed from the first step-up advance rocket image and the second step-up advance vehicle image. An effect is performed (FIG. 46 (f)). Further, when the operation valid period ends without the operation button 120 being operated, one of the images of the first step-up advance notice rocket and the second step-up advance notice car is selectively displayed. Without any image, the step-up notice effect ends.

  As described above, in this embodiment, the production control microcomputer 100 can execute the first step-up notice effect and the second step-up notice effect as the step-up notice effect. Then, the production control microcomputer 100 simultaneously executes the second step-up notice effect together with the first step-up notice effect, changes the aspect of the effect step by step to a predetermined level, and then performs any step-up notice. The effect is selected and displayed, and it is suggested that the display result of the variable display being executed in the step-up notice effect selected and displayed is the specific display result. Moreover, in this embodiment, the operation button 120 that can be operated by the player is provided, and the production control microcomputer 100 performs the first step-up notice effect and the second step-up notice effect to a predetermined stage. If the operation button 120 is not operated after the step change, any step-up notice effect is not selected and displayed. If the operation button 120 is operated, any step-up notice effect is selected. indicate. Therefore, in this embodiment, since the development of a plurality of step-up notice effects can be shown, the gaming interest can be further improved in a gaming machine capable of executing a plurality of types of step-up notice effects. In addition, since no selection is displayed unless an operation is performed, the player's willingness to participate in the game can be improved.

  In this embodiment, in order to select and display one of the step-up notice effects, a method of displaying only the step-up notice effect that is selectively displayed is used. For example, a method of making only the step-up notice effect of the person who does the display light up, a method of making the step-up notice effect of the person who does not selectively display the display small, and the like are made difficult to see.

  Further, the production control microcomputer 100 can execute only one of the first step-up notice effect and the second step-up notice effect, and changes the first step-up notice effect to a specific stage. Then, the second step-up notice effect is executed simultaneously with the first step-up notice effect. Therefore, the stage before the specific stage is the same as the case where the step-up notice is executed alone, so that the production effect can be improved.

  The step-up notice effect includes the third step-up notice effect, and the effect control microcomputer 100 performs the third step-up notice effect only at the same time as the first step-up notice effect or the second step-up notice effect. Can be executed. Therefore, a step-up notice effect rich in variations can be executed, and the interest of the step-up notice effect can be improved.

  In the example shown in FIG. 46E, the operation effective period effect is generated by displaying the operation button 120 and the image labeled “PUSH!” For 3 seconds in a predetermined area of the display screen of the effect display device 9. However, the operation effective period effect may be ended a predetermined time before the operation effective period ends. For example, when the operation valid period is 3 seconds, the effect control microcomputer 100 displays the operation button 120 and an image labeled “PUSH!” In a predetermined area of the display screen of the effect display device 9 as 2 Display for 8 seconds. In this way, when an operation is performed at the timing when the operation effective period effect ends, it is possible to prevent a misunderstanding that no response occurs even if the operation is performed during the operation effective period.

  In this embodiment, an example in which a plurality of step-up notice effects are developed at the same timing when a plurality of step-up notice effects is executed at the same time has been described. However, the development timing differs for each step-up notice effect. It may be. Further, when a plurality of step-up notice effects are executed simultaneously, all of them may be developed to the same stage, or may be developed to different stages. For example, any step-up notice effect may not be developed.

  There may also be a chance-up factor at each stage of the step-up notice effect. In this case, the step-up notice effect is selected and displayed after observing which of the step-up notice effects that the player is performing at the same time has more chances. The interest of the production can be further improved. In addition, chance-up elements occur in all of the stages (from the first stage to the fourth stage), or chance-up elements occur only in some of the stages (for example, the third stage). You may make it do.

Embodiment 2. FIG.
In the above embodiment, by operating the operation button 120 at a predetermined timing, any one of a plurality of step-up notices that are simultaneously executed is selected and displayed. In this embodiment, however, the operation button 120 Each step-up notice that is being executed at the same time is developed according to the operation timing. Specifically, instead of the effect symbol changing process shown in FIG. 43, the effect symbol changing process shown in FIG. 47 is executed.

  In the example shown in FIG. 47, in step S844, the effect control CPU 101 performs step-up notice effects (first step-up notice effect, second step-up notice effect) according to the contents of the process data (display control execution data and the like). It is determined whether it is being executed and the step-up flag is set (step S844). When the step-up notice effect is executed and the step-up flag is set (Y in step S844), the effect control CPU 101 uses the timing of switching the step-up notice effect based on the contents of the process data. It is determined whether or not there is (step S845). If it is the switching timing of the step-up notice effect (Y in step S845), it is determined whether or not the skip flag is set (step S845A). If the skip flag is set (Y in step S845A), the effect control CPU 101 switches the step-up notice effect to a predetermined step (step S845B) and resets the skip flag. Specifically, the effect control CPU 101 switches to different steps in step S845B depending on the timing at which the operation button 120 is operated. The relationship between the timing and the switching step will be described later. In this embodiment, the fourth step, which is the upper limit step determined in advance from the second step, is skipped. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the first step → the third step → the fourth step, Any step that skips an infeasible step within a predetermined time, such as step → fourth step → fifth step, may be used.

  On the other hand, if the skip flag is not set (N in step S845A), the effect control CPU 101 follows the contents of the process data (particularly, display control execution data including the notice effect, lamp control execution data, and movable member control data). The step-up notice effect is switched (changed, developed) (step S846), and the step-up counter is incremented by 1 (step S847). In this case, in step S843 to be executed thereafter, the first step-up notice effect and the second step-up notice effect are executed in a step-up manner.

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 determines whether or not there is a step-up notice effect that is simultaneously executed based on the contents of the process data (display control execution data and the like) and the step-up counter is 2 (step S848). ). Then, when it is determined that there is a step-up notice effect to be executed at the same time and the step-up counter is 2 (Y in step S848), the effect control CPU 101, in addition to the currently executed step-up notice effect, A step-up notice effect is simultaneously executed (step S849). In this embodiment, an example in which another step-up notice effect is added and executed simultaneously when the step-up notice effect to be executed in advance is in the second stage will be described. It may be at any stage without being limited to.

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 executes an operation valid period effect indicating that the operation button 120 can be operated (step S851). Then, the production control CPU 101 executes processing for detecting whether or not the operation button 120 is turned on (pressed). The on state of the operation button 120 is detected by inputting an on signal from the operation button 120. When the turn-on of the operation button 120 is detected (Y in step S852), the effect control CPU 101 determines whether or not the detected timing is within a predetermined operation effective period (step S852A). If it is determined that the detected timing is within the predetermined operation effective period (Y in step S852A), the effect control CPU 101 sequentially performs the switching process if the step-up notice effect is the third stage or the fourth stage. Advance (step S852C). On the other hand, when it is determined that the detected timing is not within the predetermined operation effective period (N in step S852A), the effect control CPU 101 sets a skip flag (step S852B). Note that the predetermined operation effective period in step S852A is a period that can be developed from the current stage of the notice effect to the next stage, and differs depending on the stage of the notice effect development (see FIG. 49). Details will be described later. In the example shown in FIG. 47, after the skip flag is set in step S852B, the process is repeated again to check whether the step flag is set in step S845A in the next process, and the subsequent processes are executed. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a flag may be set in one series of processing, and the subsequent processing may be executed based on the flag.

  Further, when the operation button 120 is not detected to be turned on (N in Step S852) and the operation valid period has ended (Y in Step S853), the effect control CPU 101 resets the step-up flag (Step S855). .

  Next, a specific example of the step-up notice effect in the case where the effect symbol changing process shown in FIG. 47 is executed instead of the effect symbol changing process shown in FIG. 43 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 48 is an explanatory diagram showing the contents of a step-up notice effect that is executed simultaneously with the addition of the second step-up notice to the first step-up notice. In the example shown in FIG. 48, as the first step-up notice, an effect is presented in which an image of a vehicle moving on an airway in stages appears in a predetermined area of the display screen of the effect display device 9. Specifically, the first stage is a balloon, the second stage is a propeller, the third stage is a jet, and the fourth stage is a rocket. In the example shown in FIG. 47, as the second step-up notice, an effect of causing an image of a vehicle moving on the land road in stages is performed in a predetermined area of the display screen of the effect display device 9. Specifically, a bicycle (not shown) is produced in the first stage, a moped bicycle in the second stage, a motorcycle in the third stage, and a car in the fourth stage.

  In the example shown in FIG. 48, when the step-up notice effect is executed, the effect that the balloon, which is the first stage image of the first step-up notice, appears in a predetermined area of the display screen of the effect display device 9 is performed. (FIG. 48 (a)). Next, when the first step-up notice is developed to the second stage, the second stage image of the second step-up notice is produced while the propeller machine that is the second stage image of the first step-up notice appears. An effect in which a moped is shown (FIG. 48B). Here, unlike the example shown in FIG. 46, in the example shown in FIG. 48, the operation of the operation button 120 is urged while the propeller machine and the motorbike are displayed (before the notice effect reaches the upper limit number of steps). An operation valid period effect is performed (FIG. 48B).

  The operation effective period effect (for example, 6 seconds (3S to 9S in the example shown in FIG. 49)) shown in FIG. 48B is executed, and the operation button 120 is operated within the first operation effective period of the operation effective period. If so (Y in step S852A in FIG. 47), a jet that is the third stage image of the first step-up notice and a motorcycle that is the third stage image of the second step-up notice appear. An effect is performed (FIG. 48C). Thereafter, an effect is produced in which the rocket, which is the fourth stage image of the first step-up notice, and the automobile, which is the fourth stage image of the second step-up notice, appear (FIG. 48D).

  Further, when the operation effective period effect shown in FIG. 48B is executed and the operation button 120 is operated after the first operation effective period of the operation effective period has elapsed (N in step S852A in FIG. 47). The rocket, which is the fourth stage image of the first step-up notice, and the automobile, which is the fourth stage image of the second step-up notice, appear (FIG. 48 (d)). That is, unlike the case where the operation button is operated within the first operation effective period, the effect in which the fourth-stage image appears is executed without executing the effect in which the third-stage image appears.

  When the operation button 120 is operated within the operation effective period, regardless of whether or not it is within the first operation effective period, the process is developed to a predetermined stage (the fourth stage in the example of FIG. 48). After that, either the first step-up notice image or the second step-up notice image is selectively displayed (FIGS. 48E and 48F).

  Further, when the operation button 120 is not operated within the operation effective period, the first step-up advance notice image and the second step-up advance notice image are determined in advance (the fourth step in the example of FIG. 48). One stage is selected and displayed as it is (stage (g)) in FIG. 48 (FIG. 48 (g)). .

  FIG. 49 is a timing chart showing the operation timing of the notice effect shown in FIG. In the example shown in FIG. 49, the notice effect is executed for 11 seconds and develops to the fourth stage. Of the 11 seconds, the second stage executable period is from 2 seconds to 5 seconds, the third stage executable period is from 5 seconds to 8 seconds, and the fourth stage executable period is from 8 seconds to 11 seconds. It is stipulated. In the example shown in FIG. 49, the first stage image appears 1 second after the start of the notice effect, and develops into the second stage image 1 second later (2 seconds after the start). Then, the operation effective period effect is executed 1 second after the development into the second stage image (3 seconds after the start). The operation effective period effect ends when the operation button 120 is operated or when a predetermined operation effective period elapses. In the example shown in FIG. 49, the operation valid period is from 3 seconds after the start of the notice effect to 9 seconds.

  When the operation button 120 is operated within the operation effective period, the image of the notice effect develops from the second stage when the operation effective period effect is executed. Specifically, when the operation button 120 is operated during the second stage executable period (specifically, from 3 seconds to 5 seconds after the start) of the operation effective period effects shown in FIG. These images develop from the second stage to the third stage 5 seconds after the start of the notice effect, and from the third stage to the fourth stage 8 seconds after the start of the notice effect. 49, when the operation button 120 is operated during the third stage executable period (specifically, from 5 seconds to 8 seconds after the start) of the operation effective period effects shown in FIG. After the operation button 120 is operated, the second stage is developed to the third stage, and after 8 seconds from the start of the notice effect, the third stage is developed to the fourth stage. 49, when the operation button 120 is operated during the fourth stage executable period (specifically, from 8 seconds to 9 seconds after the start), the image of the notice effect is displayed. The second stage develops from the second stage to the fourth stage eight seconds after the start of the notice effect without developing from the second stage to the third stage 5 seconds after the start of the notice effect. When the operation button 120 is not operated within the operation effective period, the notice effect image does not develop as the second stage at the time of the operation effective period effect execution.

  As described above, in this embodiment, when the operation button 120 is operated after a specific timing during the operation valid period, the effect control microcomputer 100 determines the notice effect in a plurality of stages. The aspect of the stage effect is changed to the predetermined stage without executing the stage aspect. Therefore, since the aspect of the recreation effect performed according to the timing of operation is different, not only the notice effect is changed depending on whether or not it is operated, but also the interest by the notice effect can be improved. Moreover, it can change to the aspect of the stage of the stage determined during the operation effective period reliably. Note that, in the example shown in FIG. 48, a plurality of step-up notice effects are simultaneously executed in the example shown in FIG. It is also applicable when only the step-up notice effect is being executed. Further, the present invention is not limited to the step-up notice effect, and can also be applied to a notice effect in which a movie that can be divided for each chapter is displayed.

  In addition, when the operation button 120 is operated after a predetermined timing during the operation effective period, the effect control microcomputer 100 is at a higher rate than when the operation button 120 is operated before the predetermined timing. A special effect may be executed. For example, the premier effect may be more easily executed when the operation button 120 is operated at a timing close to the end of the operation effective period during variable display that is a big hit. By doing in this way, since the effect according to the timing of operation is performed, the interest of the operation effect can be improved.

  In the example shown in FIG. 48B, the operation effective period effect is generated by displaying the operation button 120 and the image labeled “PUSH!” For 3 seconds in a predetermined area of the display screen of the effect display device 9. However, the operation effective period effect may be ended a predetermined time before the operation effective period ends. For example, when the operation valid period is 3 seconds, the effect control microcomputer 100 displays the operation button 120 and an image labeled “PUSH!” In a predetermined area of the display screen of the effect display device 9 as 2 Display for 8 seconds. In this way, when an operation is performed at the timing when the operation effective period effect ends, it is possible to prevent a misunderstanding that no response occurs even if the operation is performed during the operation effective period.

  Further, the production control microcomputer 100 simultaneously executes the second step-up notice effect together with the first step-up notice effect, and after changing the aspect of the effect step by step to a predetermined level, respectively, An effect may be selected and displayed, and it may be suggested that the display result of the variable display being executed in the step-up notice effect selected and displayed is the specific display result. In addition, when the operation button 120 is not operated after the production control microcomputer 100 changes the aspect of the production in stages from the first step-up notice effect and the second step-up notice effect, One of the step-up notice effects may be selected and displayed when the operation button 120 is operated without selectively displaying any of the step-up notice effects. By doing so, it is possible to show the development of a plurality of step-up notice effects, so that the gaming interest can be further improved in a gaming machine capable of executing a plurality of types of step-up notice effects. In addition, since no selection is displayed unless an operation is performed, the player's willingness to participate in the game can be improved.

  In each of the above-described embodiments, an example in which two step-up notices are simultaneously executed has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to two, and three or more step-up notices may be simultaneously executed. In that case, the degree of expectation of the target to be suggested may be varied depending on how many step-up notices of the same type and the same number of steps are executed. Further, the operation means (the operation button 120 in each of the above embodiments) is not limited to the button shape but may be a stick shape or the like as long as it can be operated by the player.

  In each of the above embodiments, a gaming machine provided with two special symbol displays (the first special symbol display 8a and the second special symbol display 8b) as a variable display unit is taken as an example. The present invention can also be applied to a gaming machine provided with a special symbol display.

  In each of the above-described embodiments, the production control board 80, the audio output board 70, and the lamp driver board 35 are provided as boards on which a circuit for controlling the production apparatus is mounted. May be mounted on one substrate. Further, a first effect control board (display control board) on which a circuit for controlling the effect display device 9 and the like is mounted and a circuit for controlling other effect devices (lamps, LEDs, speakers 27, etc.) are mounted. You may make it provide two board | substrates with two production | presentation control boards.

  In the above-described embodiment, the game control microcomputer 560 directly transmits a command to the effect control microcomputer 100. However, the game control microcomputer 560 transmits another command (for example, FIG. 3). The sound output board 70 and the lamp driver board 35 shown in FIG. 5 or the sound / lamp board having the function of the circuit mounted on the sound output board 70 and the function of the circuit mounted on the lamp driver board 35). A control command may be transmitted and transmitted to the effect control microcomputer 100 on the effect control board 80 via another board. In that case, the command may simply pass through another board, or the sound output board 70, the lamp driver board 35, and the sound / lamp board are equipped with control means such as a microcomputer, and the control means receives the command. In response to this, control related to voice control and lamp control is executed, and the received command is changed as it is or, for example, to a simplified command to control the effect display device 9. You may make it transmit to 100. Even in that case, the effect control microcomputer 100 performs the display control in accordance with the effect control command directly received from the game control microcomputer 560 in the above-described embodiment. Display control can be performed in accordance with commands received from the board 35 or the sound / lamp board.

  In addition, the device configuration of the pachinko gaming machine 1, the data configuration, the processing shown in the flowchart, various presentation operations including the display operation of the presentation image on the screen of the image display device 5, etc. depart from the spirit of the present invention. Changes and modifications can be made arbitrarily without departing from the scope. In addition, the gaming machine of the present invention is not limited to a payout type gaming machine that pays out a predetermined number of prize balls in response to detection of a winning ball, but responds to detection of a winning ball by enclosing the gaming ball. It can also be applied to enclosed game machines that give points and slot machines.

  The present invention can be applied to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine or a slot machine, and in particular, includes a display unit having a variable display unit that variably displays each of a plurality of types of identification information that can be identified. When the display result of the identification information becomes a predetermined specific display result, the present invention is suitably applied to a gaming machine that controls to a specific gaming state advantageous to the player.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Pachinko machine 8a 1st special symbol display 8b 2nd special symbol display 9 Production display device 13 1st start winning opening 14 2nd starting winning opening 15 Variable winning ball apparatus 9a 1st decoration design display 9b 2nd decoration Symbol display 18c Total hold memory display 31 Game control board (main board)
56 CPU
78 Movable members 79a, 79b Production vanes (a kind of movable members)
560 Game control microcomputer 80 Production control board 100 Production control microcomputer 101 Production control CPU

Claims (1)

A gaming machine that can be controlled to a specific state advantageous to a player based on establishment of a predetermined condition,
And the player can be operated operation means,
A notice effect determining means for determining to which stage the notice effect that changes the aspect of the effect in stages from the first stage to the stage is executed;
And a prediction effect execution unit capable of executing the prediction effect to the point determined by the prediction effect determination means based on said operating means is operated during the lifetime,
When the operation means is operated after a specific timing during the effective period, the notice effect executing means is at least the notice effect determining means without executing the effect at the predetermined stage among the plurality of stages. Execute the stage of the stage determined by
The notice effect is a game machine characterized by high expectations as the stage progresses.

Images