JP5940016B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine provided with operation means for performing a ball lending operation or a return operation.

  Conventionally, in a pachinko machine which is a kind of gaming machine, a card-type ball lending control device is used as a ball lending system. In such a gaming machine, when the player has operated the ball lending button provided on the upper ball tray with the prepaid card inserted into the card insertion slot of the ball lending control device, A predetermined number (for example, 25 for 100 yen) of lending balls is paid out for a certain amount of money.

  By the way, there is disclosed a gaming machine that executes effects with different contents depending on whether or not a ball lending operation is performed (see, for example, Patent Document 1). This increases the relevance between the ball lending operation and the symbol variation game.

JP 2010-279467 A (paragraph [0011] etc.)

  However, the prior art described in Patent Document 1 merely changes the effect content depending on the presence or absence of a ball lending operation, and for example, the relevance between the effect content and the content of the symbol variation game is low. That is, it can be said that the presence or absence of the ball lending operation is not actively used for the contents of the symbol variation game.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine capable of improving interest by increasing the relevance between the operation of the operation means and the symbol variation game. There is.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention described in claim 1 (means 1) includes a symbol display means for displaying a symbol change game for changing a symbol in response to winning of a game ball in the start winning means, Arranged on the machine surface side, an operation means for outputting an operation signal when a player performs a ball lending operation or a return operation during the symbol variation game, a game control means for controlling a gaming machine, and the game control means A gaming machine that is electrically connected and includes a payout control means for controlling the payout of the game ball by the ball payout means based on a payout instruction from the game control means, wherein the game control means is the operation means. Based on the operation signal input from the above, the system includes a notification effect determining means for selecting and executing one notification effect from a plurality of notification effects having different notification contents. Pattern variations game results according to the level of expectations as a big hit, as its gist the gaming machine occurrence rate is characterized differ from each other.

  Therefore, according to the first aspect of the present invention, since the appearance rates of the plurality of notification effects differ from each other depending on the level of expectation that the result of the symbol variation game is a big hit, the operating means for executing the notification effects The relevance between the operation and the symbol variation game can be increased. In addition, by operating the operation means, it is possible to estimate a high degree of expectation that the result of the symbol variation game is a big hit. From the above, the player's interest and expectation for the symbol variation game can be increased, so that the player's interest can be improved.

  The operation means is arranged on the machine front side where the player can reach. Specific places where the operation means are arranged include a front frame, an upper ball tray, a lower ball tray, an operation handle used for launching a game ball, the back side of an ashtray, and the like. Further, as an operation means, a mechanical switch (mechanical switch) that outputs an operation signal only while operating the operation means, for example, an electromagnetic switch (proximity switch) that outputs an operation signal when a player's hand approaches. Switch), for example, a touch sensor that outputs an operation signal when a player's hand touches.

  Here, as the notification effect, the symbol display means displays characters (“chance”, “hit?”, Etc.) that give expectation that the result of the symbol variation game will be a big hit, the symbol display means An effect of changing the background color displayed on the screen, an effect of displaying a special character on the symbol display means, and the like. Furthermore, specific examples of the notification effect include an effect of generating sound from a speaker and an effect of lighting or blinking light emitting means such as a light emitting diode. The notification contents of the notification effect include an effect that suggests whether or not a ball lending operation or a return operation should be performed (for example, an effect that displays characters that may be a big hit), a ball lending operation or a return operation. An effect that indicates whether or not to perform (for example, an effect that displays the letters “not yet!”), An effect that confirms whether to lend or return a ball (for example, “really lend (or return) a ball) For example).

  In addition, “the level of expectation that the result of the symbol variation game is a big hit” is limited only to “the level of expectation between the case where the result of the symbol variation game is a big hit and a case where the game is lost”. For example, “After the reach effect that the normal reach is formed is executed, the result of the symbol change game is lost, and after the reach effect that the super reach is formed is executed, the symbol change game is executed. "If the result is lost, the degree of expectation between this and the case" is also included.

  The invention according to claim 2 (means 2) is that, in claim 1, the notification content is an effect suggesting whether or not a player should perform a ball lending operation, or a ball lending by the ball paying means. The game control means is a game ball for the payout control means when the operation signal is input again within a specified time after the start of the notification effect. The gist of this is to instruct the payout.

  Therefore, according to the second aspect of the present invention, the ball lending is executed by operating the operating means again after operating the operating means once. In other words, ball lending is not executed once the operation means is operated. Therefore, in the case where the result of the symbol variation game is a big hit, for example, the possibility of a big hit immediately after lending a ball is reduced. That is, it is possible to reduce the risk of lending a ball that is disadvantageous to the player.

  The invention according to claim 3 (means 3) is the storage device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the game control means stores the number of winning game balls to the start winning means as the number-of-holds information, A holding storage information determination unit that determines whether or not the symbol variation game that is performed based on the number-of-holds includes a game with a high expectation level that is a big hit; When it is determined that the symbol variation game includes a game with a high expectation level that is a big hit, an effect suggesting whether or not to perform a ball lending operation by the player, or a ball lending by the ball payout means The gist is that an effect for confirming the performance is performed.

  Therefore, according to the third aspect of the invention, it is possible to refer to not only the symbol variation game currently being executed but also the number-of-holds information, thereby indicating whether or not the ball lending operation should be performed, or the ball lending An effect is confirmed to confirm that For this reason, it is possible to reliably reduce the risk of a disadvantageous ball lending to the player while giving the player an expectation that the result of the symbol variation game performed based on the number-of-holds information will be a big hit. it can.

  The invention according to claim 4 (means 4) is characterized in that, in any one of claims 1 to 3, an effect suggesting whether or not a player should perform a ball lending operation, or a ball by the ball payout means The gist is that the probability that the effect of confirming lending is executed changes according to the elapsed time from the start of the symbol variation game.

  Therefore, according to the fourth aspect of the present invention, the relevance between the operation of the operation means and the symbol variation game is further increased by holding or permitting the ball lending according to the development of the symbol variation game. Therefore, it is possible to further reliably reduce the risk of lending a ball that is disadvantageous to the player.

  A mode in which the probability that an effect that suggests whether or not to perform a ball lending operation or an effect that confirms that a ball lend is performed changes according to the elapsed time since the start of the symbol variation game is However, there is no particular limitation. For example, during the period before the start of the reach production, it is impossible to predict whether the result of the symbol variation game will be a big hit or a loss, so an effect suggesting that the ball lending operation should not be performed is executed. Is preferably suspended. On the other hand, during the period after the start of reach production, there is a possibility of predicting whether the result of the symbol variation game will be a big hit or a loss, so the production suggesting that you should lend a ball or lending a ball You may make it accept | permit a ball lending by performing the production | presentation confirmed.

  As described in detail above, according to the first to fourth aspects of the present invention, there is provided a gaming machine capable of improving interest by increasing the relevance between the operation of the operation means and the symbol variation game. can do. In particular, according to the second aspect of the present invention, it is possible to reduce the risk of ball lending that is disadvantageous to the player.

The schematic front view which shows the pachinko machine in this invention. The front view which shows a game board. The block diagram for demonstrating the connection relation of a main control board and another board | substrate. Fluctuation pattern distribution table. Notification production determination table 1. Notification effect determination table 2. The time chart which shows the execution timing etc. of the alerting | reporting effect in other embodiment.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment in which a gaming machine of the present invention is embodied in a pachinko machine 10 will be described with reference to the drawings.

(1) Schematic configuration of the entire pachinko machine 10 FIG. 1 schematically shows the surface side of the pachinko machine 10. The pachinko machine 10 includes a vertical rectangular outer frame 11 that forms an outer shell of the machine body. A vertical rectangular middle frame 12 constituting the airframe is assembled to the outer frame 11 so as to be openable and detachable. Further, a front frame 14 is assembled to the front side of the middle frame 12 so as to be openable and closable. The front frame 14 has a structure in which an upper ball tray 15 is integrally assembled below the window 14a while having a window 14a at the center. On the back side of the front frame 14, glass (not shown) for seeing and protecting the game board 13 disposed inside the machine is assembled. Further, an upper frame lamp 16a, a left frame lamp 16b, and a right frame lamp 16c are provided on the front surface of the front frame 14. Each of the frame lamps 16a to 16c is a light emitting unit including a light emitter (not shown) (not shown), and is configured by covering the light emitter with a lens member. In these frame lamps 16a to 16c, light emission effects such as lighting (flashing) and light extinction are executed according to various game performance modes (big hit, reach, etc.) of the pachinko machine 10.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 1, a lower ball tray 18 is integrally assembled with the lower portion of the front frame 14. On the right side of the lower ball tray 18, an operation handle 19 constituting a hitting ball launching device (not shown) is mounted. When the player turns the operation handle 19, the game balls stored in the upper ball tray 15 are launched by the ball striking device and guided onto the game board surface 13a (see FIG. 2) of the game board 13. become. In the present embodiment, the lower ball tray 18 and the operation handle 19 are integrally assembled to the lower portion of the front frame 14. You may make it assemble | attach below.

(2) Configuration of Game Board 13 The game board 13 shown in FIG. 2 is formed in a substantially rectangular plate shape by sticking resin cells on the surface of a wooden board such as a plywood board. The game board 13 may be formed in a substantially rectangular plate shape by injection molding of a resin material such as acrylic resin. On the game board surface 13a of the game board 13, an inner rail 33a and an outer rail 33b that divide a game area 32 where game balls can flow down are laid in a substantially circular shape. A game ball launched when the operation handle 19 is operated passes through a launch path generated between the inner rail 33a and the outer rail 33b. Then, the game ball that has been launched by the ball striking device and passed through the launch path enters the game area 32 from the end of the launch path and flows down in the game area 32. Further, a windmill 34 is disposed in the game area 32, and a plurality of game nails 35 are planted in substantially the entire game area 32. The windmill 34 and the game nail 35 are adapted to change the direction of the game ball flowing down in the game area 32.

  As shown in FIG. 2, a frame-shaped center accessory 50 having an opening 50a is attached to a substantially central portion of the game board surface 13a. A symbol display device 60 as a “symbol display means” is detachably attached to the back side of the game board 13. The display screen of the symbol display device 60 is visible from the front side of the game board 13 through the opening 50 a of the center accessory 50. In addition, although the symbol display device 60 of this embodiment is a liquid crystal type, it may be a dot matrix type, an electroluminescence element type, a seven segment type, or a drum type symbol display device. In addition, in the symbol display device 60, a game effect (display effect) based on variable display (or image display) is performed. The symbol display device 60 displays an effect symbol variation game in which a plurality of types of effect symbols are varied in three columns in relation to the display effect. The effect design is a design showing 10 numbers from “0” to “9”.

  As shown in FIG. 2, a start winning device 51, which is a “start winning means”, is disposed below the center accessory 50 on the game board surface 13 a. In the start winning device 51, a start winning port 51a is formed, and an ordinary electric accessory consisting of a pair of blade members 51b is integrally formed. The pair of blade members 51b are configured to open and close by the exciting action of the ordinary electric accessory solenoid SOL1 (see FIG. 3). In addition, a start opening switch SE1 (see FIGS. 2 and 3) for detecting a game ball won in the start winning opening 51a is provided behind the start winning apparatus 51. The start port switch SE1 is turned on when a game ball won in the start winning device 51 is detected, and outputs a winning signal. On the other hand, the start port switch SE1 is turned off when no game ball is detected, and no winning signal is output. When a winning signal is output, a special symbol variation game is performed by the special symbol display device 61, and an effect symbol variation game is performed by the symbol display device 60, and a predetermined number (three in this embodiment). The award ball will be paid out. Note that the start winning device 51 of the present embodiment is an electric device in which the ordinary electric combination is integrally formed, but may be a fixed type that does not have the ordinary electric combination.

  As shown in FIG. 2, a large winning device 52 that can win a game ball flowing down on the game board surface 13a is arranged below the start winning device 51 on the game board surface 13a. A count switch SE2 (see FIGS. 2 and 3) for detecting a winning game ball is provided in the back of the big winning device 52. In addition, the big prize opening door 52a of the big prize winning device 52 can be switched between a closed state in which a game ball is not received and an open state in which the game ball is easily received by the exciting action of the big prize port solenoid SOL2 (see FIG. 3). It has become. In the present embodiment, the “closed state” of the grand prize opening door 52a means a state in which the big prize opening door 52a is completely closed, and the “open state” of the big prize opening door 52a means the grand prize opening door. 52a is in a fully open state. When a game ball is detected by the count switch SE2, a predetermined number (15 in this embodiment) of award balls is paid out.

  Further, a gate 53 having a function of detecting the passage of the game ball is provided on the left side of the center accessory 50. Behind the gate 53, a gate switch SE3 (see FIGS. 2 and 3) for detecting a game ball that has passed is provided. Note that, when a game ball is detected by the gate switch SE3, a random number is acquired, and the ordinary electric accessory solenoid SOL1 is driven based on a result of determining whether or not the acquired random number is a predetermined random value. . Since the pair of blade members 51b of the ordinary electric accessory is opened by such determination (hit determination), it becomes easy for the game ball to win the start winning opening 51a.

  As shown in FIG. 2, a special symbol display device 61 having a visible display unit is disposed on the lower right side of the center accessory 50. In the special symbol display device 61, a special symbol for changing a plurality of types of special symbols (in this embodiment, ten types of symbols “0” to “9”) triggered by the winning of a game ball to the start winning device 51. A variation game is displayed, and as a result of the special symbol variation game, a display result of a big hit and a loss is displayed. For example, when the result of the special symbol variation game is a big hit, at the end of the special symbol variation game, symbols indicating ten different numbers “0” to “9” are displayed as the special symbols. On the other hand, when the result of the special symbol variation game is lost, at the end of the special symbol variation game, a symbol “-” indicating a loss is displayed as the special symbol.

  Here, the special symbol displayed in the case of a big hit consists of a probability variation symbol and a non-probability variation symbol. The probability variation symbol is a symbol that triggers the start of a probability variation state in which the probability that a jackpot is derived in the special symbol variation game is high. The non-probable variation symbol is a symbol that is in a normal state that does not trigger the probability variation state. The probability variation symbol of this embodiment is a special symbol indicating the numbers “1”, “3”, “5”, “7”, “9”. On the other hand, the non-probable variation symbol of this embodiment is a special symbol indicating the numbers “0”, “2”, “4”, “6”, “8”.

  Furthermore, in the present embodiment, an effect symbol variation game is performed by the symbol display device 60 in accordance with the special symbol variation game on the special symbol display device 61. Specifically, the effect symbol variation game is started almost simultaneously with the start of the special symbol variation game, and the result of the effect symbol variation game is displayed almost simultaneously with the end of the special symbol variation game (the display result of jackpot or lose) is displayed. It has become so. In the present embodiment, the effect symbol variation game performed on the symbol display device 60 and the special symbol variation game performed on the special symbol display device 61 are referred to as a “variation game”.

  As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, a special symbol holding display device C is disposed below the special symbol display device 61. The special symbol hold display device C is composed of a plurality of (four) light emitting means including a first hold lamp, a second hold lamp, a third hold lamp, and a fourth hold lamp. Each holding lamp is turned on when there is a game ball (starting holding ball) stored in response to winning in the starting winning device 51, and is turned off when there is no starting holding ball. Each holding lamp is for indicating the number of winning game balls (starting holding ball number) to the start winning device 51. For example, when there are three start hold balls, three hold lamps are lit.

  Here, “the number of starting reserved balls” is stored in the range of a predetermined maximum value (4 in the present embodiment) the number of game balls won in the starting winning device 51 during the change of the special symbol (effect symbol). Value. The number of starting reserved balls is “+1” by winning a game ball to the starting winning device 51 and is “−1” by starting a variable game.

  As shown in FIG. 2, on the left side of the start winning device 51 on the game board surface 13a, general winning devices 58a to 58c capable of winning game balls flowing down on the game board surface 13a are arranged. In the back of the general winning devices 58a to 58c, a lower left winning opening switch SE4 (see FIG. 3) for detecting a winning game ball is provided. The lower left winning opening switch SE4 is turned on when a game ball won in the general winning devices 58a to 58c is detected, and outputs a winning signal. That is, in the general winning devices 58a to 58c, the winning of the game ball is detected by one left lower winning port switch SE4. Further, a general winning device 58d capable of winning a game ball flowing down on the game board surface 13a is also arranged on the game board surface 13a at the upper right of the start winning device 51. In the back of the general winning device 58d, a lower right winning port switch SE5 (see FIG. 3) for detecting a winning game ball is provided. The lower right winning opening switch SE5 is turned on when a game ball won in the general winning device 58d is detected, and outputs a winning signal. In the general winning devices 58a to 58d, a predetermined number (10 in this embodiment) of payout balls is paid out when a game ball is won. Further, at the lowermost part of the game area 32 (the lower end portion of the inner rail 33a), an out port 57 is provided for collecting game balls that have not won any of the winning devices 51, 52, 58a to 58d. ing.

  As shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 3, on the right side of the out port 57 at the lower side of the game board surface 13a, there are prize balls to be paid out when a game ball is awarded to the prize winning devices 51, 52, 58a to 58d. A remaining number display 71 for displaying the remaining number is provided. The remaining number of prize balls is the total number of prize balls that are not paid out (the total number of prize balls) out of the prize balls that are paid out based on the winning of game balls to the prize winning devices 51, 52, 58a to 58d. Is shown. Therefore, the remaining number of prize balls increases by winning the game balls to the winning devices 51, 52, 58a to 58d, and decreases by paying out the prize balls. The remaining number display 71 of the present embodiment is a 7-segment display capable of displaying a 3-digit number (0 to 999) or a 3-digit alphabet (FFF).

(3) Schematic Configuration of Ball Rental Button 81 and Return Button 82 The upper ball tray 15 shown in FIG. 1 is provided with a ball rental button 81 as an “operation means”. The ball lending button 81 is operated during a variable game in order for the player to lend a ball. The ball lending button 81 is turned on when a ball lending operation is performed by the player, and a ball lending operation signal is output to the main CPU 21a (see FIG. 3) of the main control board 21. Further, the ball lending button 81 and the return button 82 are turned off when not operated by the player, and the ball lending operation signal is not output.

  Further, a return button 82 is provided on the right side of the ball lending button 81 in the upper ball tray 15. The return button 82 is operated during a variable game in order for the player to return the game ball. The return button 82 is turned on when a return operation is performed by the player, and outputs a return operation signal to the main CPU 21a. Further, the return button 82 is turned off when not being operated by the player, and does not output a return operation signal.

(4) Electrical Configuration of Pachinko Machine 10 As shown in FIG. 3, the pachinko machine 10 includes a main control board 21, an overall control board 22, a display control board 23, an audio / lamp control board 24, and a payout control board 25. It has. An overall control board 22 is electrically connected to the main control board 21, and a display control board 23 and an audio / lamp control board 24 are electrically connected to the overall control board 22. Further, the payout control board 25 which is the “payout control means” is electrically connected to the main control board 21. The payout control board 25 controls the payout of game balls by the ball payout device 26 which is a “ball payout means” based on a payout instruction from the main control board 21.

(4-1) Electrical Configuration of Main Control Board 21 The main control board 21 includes a main CPU 21a that is a “game control means” that controls the pachinko machine 10. A start port switch SE1, a count switch SE2, a gate switch SE3, a lower left winning port switch SE4, a lower right winning port switch SE5, a ball lending button 81 and a return button 82 are connected to the main CPU 21a. The main CPU 21a is connected with a special symbol display device 61, a remaining number display device 71, a special symbol hold display device C, a normal electric accessory solenoid SOL1, and a special prize opening solenoid SOL2.

  As shown in FIG. 3, a main ROM (not shown) and a main RAM (not shown) are electrically connected to the main CPU 21a. The main CPU 21a updates the values of various random numbers such as jackpot determination random numbers, jackpot symbol random numbers, reach determination random numbers, and variation pattern distribution random numbers used in various lotteries related to the special symbol variation game at predetermined intervals. . The main CPU 21a sets the updated value in the random number storage area of the main RAM and rewrites the value before the update. Various timers that are appropriately rewritten during operation of the pachinko machine 10 are stored (set) in the timer storage area of the main RAM.

  The big hit determination random number is a random number used when determining whether or not the variable game is a big hit (when determining the big hit). The jackpot symbol random number is a random number used when determining a special symbol when the result of the variable game is a jackpot. The reach determination random number is a random number used when determining whether or not to execute the reach effect when the result of the floating game is lost (during reach determination). The variation pattern distribution random number is a random number used when determining the variation pattern for specifying the contents of the effect of the game effect in the variation game.

  The main ROM also stores a variation pattern distribution table (see FIG. 4) in which variation patterns P1 to P5 for special symbol variation games (production symbol variation games) are distributed. In each variation pattern P1 to P5, the symbols in all columns displayed on the symbol display device 60 (effect symbol) start changing (the effect symbol variation game is started) and then the symbols in all columns are stopped (the effect symbol variation game). This is for specifying the time and content of the game effect (display effect, light emission effect, sound effect) until the end of the game. Each variation pattern is classified into a variation pattern P1 for a loss effect, a variation pattern P2, P4 for a loss reach effect, and a variation pattern P3, P5 for a big hit effect. In addition, the fluctuation patterns P1 to P5 are assigned fluctuation pattern distribution random values (100 integers of 0 to 99 in this embodiment). Note that the variation pattern P1 for losing effect indicates a pattern that is a base of losing effect that displays a combination of losing symbols without undergoing reach effect. The variation patterns P2 and P4 for losing reach production are the bases for losing reach production that displays the losing symbol combination (the symbol combination in which the middle symbol stops at a different symbol from the left and right symbols) after reaching the reach. The pattern is shown. The variation patterns P3 and P5 for the jackpot effect are patterns that serve as a base for the jackpot effect that displays the jackpot symbol combination (the symbol symbol combination in which the middle symbol stops at the same symbol as the left symbol and the right symbol) after reaching the reach effect. Show. In addition, the production time (fluctuation time) of the lost production, the lost reach production, and the jackpot production is different for each of the fluctuation patterns P1 to P5. Further, the fluctuation patterns P2 to P5 for the lost reach effect and the big hit effect are divided into a pattern when a reach effect that is a normal reach is executed and a pattern when a reach effect that is a super reach is executed. Yes. The reach effect that is a normal reach is an effect in which the left symbol and the right symbol are fixedly stopped with the same type of symbols, and after the middle symbol is changed, the fixed symbol is stopped and the symbol combination is derived. In addition, the reach production that becomes the super reach is the special design with the left design and the right design are confirmed and stopped with the same type of design, and after changing the middle design, the design is stopped and the symbol combination is derived. This is the direction to be performed. Note that the appearance rate of super reach is lower than the appearance rate of normal reach. Super reach is a reach that has a high expectation that the result of a variable game is a big hit compared to normal reach.

  Next, various processes related to the special symbol variation game executed by the main CPU 21a shown in FIG. 3 (such as jackpot determination, reach determination, jackpot symbol, lose symbol, variation pattern determination, etc.) will be described.

  First, the main CPU 21a determines whether or not a winning signal is input from the start port switch SE1. When it is determined that a winning signal has been input, the main CPU 21a performs control to execute a special symbol variation game. Specifically, the main CPU 21a obtains the value of the big hit symbol random number extracted by random number lottery and updated every predetermined period from the main RAM, and stores the obtained value in the random number storage area of the main RAM ( Remember. Further, the main CPU 21a acquires, from the main RAM, a value of a big hit determination random number extracted by a random number lottery and updated every predetermined period when the start winning condition is satisfied, and the acquired value is a random number of the main RAM. Store (store) in the storage area. Further, the main CPU 21a stores the number of winning game balls (starting holding ball number) to the starting winning device 51 in the main RAM as the holding number information. That is, the main RAM has a function as “holding storage means”.

  Then, the main CPU 21a shown in FIG. 3 uses the jackpot determination random number value stored in the random number storage area of the main RAM and the jackpot determination value stored in the main ROM immediately before the start of the special symbol variation game. In comparison, a jackpot determination (a jackpot lottery) is performed to determine whether or not the special symbol variation game is successful. In the present embodiment, the numbers that can be taken by the jackpot determination random numbers are set to 0 to 599 (total of 600 types of integers). Then, the main CPU 21a uses two jackpot determination values out of the numerical values that can be taken as the jackpot determination random numbers, and determines the jackpot determination by setting the lottery probability of the jackpot to 2/600 (= 1/300).

  When the determination result of the big hit determination is negative (the value of the big hit determination random number does not match the big hit determination value), the main CPU 21a determines the loss. Then, the main CPU 21a determines the symbol “−” indicating a loss as a special symbol. Furthermore, the main CPU 21a stores data corresponding to the determined special symbol in the main RAM until the next special symbol variation game is performed.

  The main CPU 21a shown in FIG. 3 compares the reach determination random number read from the main RAM with the reach determination value stored in the main ROM when the determination result of the big hit determination is lost. Reach determination is made as to whether or not to execute losing reach. In the present embodiment, the numerical values that can be taken by the random numbers for reach determination are 0 to 180 (a total of 181 kinds of integers). The reach determination value is a value determined in advance from numerical values that can be taken by the reach determination random number. When the determination result of reach determination is affirmative (the value of the reach determination random number matches the reach determination value), the main CPU 21a determines the loss reach. If the determination result of reach determination is negative (the reach determination random number value and the reach determination value do not match), the main CPU 21a determines a loss (a loss without a reach).

  On the other hand, when the determination result of the big hit determination is affirmative (the value of the random number for big hit determination matches the big hit determination value), the main CPU 21a shown in FIG. 3 determines the big hit. When the jackpot determination is made, the main CPU 21a determines a special symbol indicating any one of “0” to “9” based on the value of the jackpot symbol random number stored in the random number storage area of the main RAM. To do. Then, the main CPU 21a stores data corresponding to the determined special symbol in the main RAM until a process related to the next special symbol variation game is performed.

  Further, the main CPU 21a determines whether the special symbol is a probability variation symbol or a non-probability variation symbol based on the value of the jackpot symbol random number stored in the random number storage area of the main RAM. In the present embodiment, if the value of the jackpot symbol random number is “1”, “3”, “5”, “7”, or “9”, the special symbol is determined to be a probability variation symbol, and the jackpot symbol If the value of the design random number is “0”, “2”, “4”, “6”, or “8”, it is determined that the special symbol is a non-probable variation. When the special symbol is determined to be a probable variation symbol, the probability variation state is given in the special symbol variation game started after the end of the jackpot gaming state in which the big winning device 52 is in an open state. Yes. On the other hand, when it is determined that the special symbol is a non-probable variation symbol, the main CPU 21a gives the normal gaming state in the special symbol variation game started after the end of the big hit gaming state.

  Then, when the probability variation state is given in the special symbol variation game, the main CPU 21a shown in FIG. Is determined to be 20/600 (= 1/30). That is, the number of jackpot determination values in the probability variation state is 10 times that in the probability variation state. The probability variation state may be continued until the next jackpot gaming state is started, or until the symbol variation display is executed a plurality of times (for example, 10,000 times). It may be continued for a while.

  Further, the main CPU 21a determines a variation pattern based on the determination results of jackpot determination and reach determination. Specifically, when the big hit is determined in the big hit determination, the main CPU 21a reads the value of the variation pattern distribution random number from the main RAM, and based on the value, the big hit effect stored in the variation pattern distribution table. The variation pattern P3 or P5 for use is determined. When the lose reach is determined in the reach determination, the main CPU 21a determines the change pattern P2 or P4 for the lose reach effect from the change pattern assignment table based on the value of the change pattern assignment random number read from the main RAM. When the loss is determined in the reach determination, the main CPU 21a determines the variation pattern P1 for the loss effect from the variation pattern distribution table based on the value of the variation pattern distribution random number read from the main RAM.

  Further, the main CPU 21a shown in FIG. 3 performs control to display the special symbol on the special symbol display device 61. More specifically, when the main CPU 21a determines the special symbol and the variation pattern, the main CPU 21a sets (stores) the variation time associated with each variation pattern as a special symbol timer in the timer storage area of the main RAM, and the special symbol display device 61. To start changing the special symbol.

  The main CPU 21a first designates a variation pattern and generates a variation pattern designation command for instructing the start of symbol variation, and sets (stores in a main RAM) a control command. The control command set here is output in the next command output process. Next, the main CPU 21a sets a special symbol designating command for designating a special symbol as a control command (stored in the main RAM). The control command set here is output in the next command output process. Further, the main CPU 21a subtracts the special symbol timer set at the start of fluctuation every interrupt (4 ms). When the special symbol timer reaches 0 ms, the main CPU 21a sets (outputs) a symbol stop command that instructs the stop of the special symbol and the effect symbol as a control command. When the ball lending operation signal is input from the ball lending button 81, the main CPU 21a outputs the input ball lending operation signal to the overall control CPU 22a of the overall control board 22.

  Further, the main CPU 21a shown in FIG. 3 is triggered by a player's ball lending operation (input of a ball lending operation signal from the ball lending button 81), and the input timing of the ball lending operation signal is not in a variable game. Determine if the demonstration is in progress. When it is determined that the input timing of the ball lending operation signal is not during the demonstration production, the main CPU 21a has one of the variation patterns P2 to P5 determined based on the determination results of the jackpot determination and reach determination. It is determined whether or not.

  When the determined variation pattern is not one of the variation patterns P2 to P5 but the variation pattern P1, that is, when it is not the variation pattern in which the notification effect described later is executed, the main CPU 21a A lending ball control signal is output to 25. Then, the payout control board 25 outputs a drive control signal to the ball payout device 26 in response to the input of the lending ball control signal, and starts paying out the game balls (rental balls) by the ball payout device 26.

  On the other hand, when the determined variation pattern is one of the variation patterns P2 to P5, that is, when the notification effect is performed, the main CPU 21a shown in FIG. A specified time for enabling the input of the lending operation signal is set (stored) in the timer storage area of the main RAM. Then, the main CPU 21a subtracts the set specified time every interrupt (4 ms). The specified time of the present embodiment is a period after the start of the notification effect, and is set to 5 s before subtraction.

  Further, the main CPU 21a determines whether or not the ball lending operation signal is input again within a specified time (until the specified time reaches 0 ms). When it is determined that the ball lending operation signal is input again within the specified time, the main CPU 21a instructs the payout control board 25 to pay out the game ball (output a lending ball control signal). On the other hand, when it is determined that the ball lending operation signal has not been input within the specified time, the main CPU 21a does not instruct the payout control board 25 to pay out the game ball. That is, the operation of the ball lending button 81 is effective only when the ball lending operation signal is input again within the specified time.

  Further, the main CPU 21a shown in FIG. 3 determines whether or not a big hit is included in the special symbol variation game performed based on the number-of-holds information stored in the main RAM (pre-reading determination). That is, the main CPU 21a has a function as “holding storage information determination means”. Specifically, when the number of winning game balls included in the number-of-holds information is “2”, for example, the main CPU 21a performs a big hit determination based on information corresponding to each game ball (start-up hold ball). If the determination result of at least one jackpot determination is affirmative, the main CPU 21a determines that a special symbol variation game executed based on the number-of-holds information includes a jackpot, and performs overall control of the overall control board 22. A first hold number information signal is output to the CPU 22a. On the other hand, if the determination results of all the jackpot determinations are negative, the main CPU 21a determines that the special symbol variation game performed based on the number-of-holds information does not include a jackpot, and the second control with respect to the overall control CPU 22a. A hold number information signal is output.

(4-2) Electrical Configuration of Overall Control Board 22 The overall control board 22 shown in FIG. 3 includes an overall control CPU 22a that is a “game control means”, and the overall control CPU 22a includes an overall ROM (not shown). And a general RAM (not shown) are electrically connected. The overall control CPU 22a updates the values of various random numbers used for determining the game effect at predetermined intervals. Then, the overall control CPU 22a rewrites the value before update by setting the updated value in the setting area of the overall RAM. For example, in the random number storage area of the general RAM, a random number for a left symbol, a random number for a middle symbol, a random number for a right symbol, and the like are stored. Various timers that are appropriately rewritten during operation of the pachinko machine 10 are stored (set) in the timer storage area of the overall RAM.

  The general ROM stores a notification effect determination table 1 (see FIG. 5) in which notification effect patterns SP0 to SP3 for notification effects executed based on the variation pattern are distributed. Each notification effect pattern SP0 to SP3 is associated with a plurality of notification effects having different notification contents. Specifically, in the notification effect determination table 1 of the present embodiment, the notification effect pattern SP1 without notification effect, the notification effect pattern SP1 used for the notification effect for confirming that the ball lending device 26 performs ball lending, In addition, notification effect patterns SP2 and SP3 used for the notification effect suggesting that the player should not perform the ball lending operation are distributed. Note that the notification effect pattern SP1 is a base of the notification effect that notifies the player that ball rental is permitted by displaying the characters “Is it okay to lend a ball?” On the symbol display device 60. Shows the pattern. The notification effect pattern SP2 indicates a pattern serving as a base of the notification effect for notifying the player that the ball lending should be suspended by displaying the characters “Don't give up!” On the symbol display device 60. Yes. The notification effect pattern SP3 indicates a pattern serving as a base of the notification effect for notifying the player that the ball lending should be suspended by displaying the characters “may be a big hit” on the symbol display device 60. ing. Note that the notification effect based on the notification effect pattern SP2 is an effect having a higher reliability than the notification effect based on the notification effect pattern SP1, and the notification effect based on the notification effect pattern SP3 is a notification based on the notification effect pattern SP2. It is a highly reliable performance that is a big hit rather than a performance.

  Further, in the notification effect determination table 1 shown in FIG. 5, numerical values that can be taken by the notification effect pattern distribution random numbers are 0 to 99 (100 whole numbers), and each value of the notification effect pattern distribution random numbers is respectively set. It is associated with the notification effect patterns SP0 to SP3. That is, when the variation pattern determined by the main CPU 21a is the variation pattern P1, the notification effect pattern SP0 is associated with 100 notification effect pattern distribution random values (0 to 99), and the notification effect pattern SP1. ~ SP3 are each associated with 0 values of the random numbers for distribution of the notification effect pattern. Further, in the case of the variation pattern P2, 30 notification effect pattern distribution random numbers (0 to 29) are associated with the notification effect pattern SP0, and 50 notification effect pattern patterns are assigned to the notification effect pattern SP1. Random numbers for distribution (30 to 79) are associated, 14 notification effect pattern distribution random values (80 to 93) are associated with notification effect pattern SP2, and 6 in notification effect pattern SP3. Relative values (94 to 99) of notification effect pattern distribution random numbers are associated with each other. Furthermore, in the case of the variation pattern P3, the notification effect pattern SP0 is associated with ten notification effect pattern distribution random numbers (0 to 9), and the notification effect pattern SP1 is associated with 20 notification effect pattern changes. The random number values for distribution (10 to 29) are associated, the notification effect pattern SP2 is associated with 40 notification effect pattern distribution random number values (30 to 69), and the notification effect pattern SP3 is 30. The value (70-99) of the random numbers for notification effect pattern distribution is matched. In the case of the variation pattern P4, 30 notification effect pattern distribution random numbers (0 to 29) are associated with the notification effect pattern SP0, and 40 notification effect pattern changes are associated with the notification effect pattern SP1. The random number values for distribution (30 to 69) are associated, the notification effect pattern SP2 is associated with 20 notification effect pattern distribution random values (70 to 89), and the notification effect pattern SP3 is 10 in number. The numbers (90 to 99) of random numbers for distribution of notification effect patterns are associated with each other. In the case of the variation pattern P5, the notification effect pattern SP0 is associated with six notification effect pattern distribution random numbers (0 to 5), and the notification effect pattern SP1 has 14 notification effect pattern changes. The random number values for distribution (6 to 19) are associated with each other, the notification effect pattern SP2 is associated with 30 notification effect pattern distribution random values (20 to 49), and the notification effect pattern SP3 is 50. The value (50-99) of the random number for notification effect pattern distribution is matched. Note that the distribution of the random numbers for distribution of the notification effect pattern is not limited to that of the present embodiment, and can be changed as appropriate.

  Incidentally, when a variation pattern designation command is input, the overall control CPU 22a shown in FIG. 3 stores the variation pattern designated by the variation pattern designation command in the overall RAM. When the special symbol designation command is input, the overall control CPU 22a stores the special symbol designated by the special symbol designation command in the overall RAM.

  Furthermore, the overall control CPU 22a generates an effect symbol that is stopped and displayed on the symbol display device 60 at the end of the effect symbol variation game, based on the special symbol and the variation pattern stored in the overall RAM. . For example, if the special symbol stored in the overall RAM is any one of “0” to “9” and the variation patterns stored in the overall RAM are variation patterns P3 and P5 for jackpot presentation, The control CPU 22a determines the big hit. In this case, the overall control CPU 22a generates an effect symbol (effect symbol left, middle, right) that is finally stopped by the symbol display device 60 so that all columns are of the same type. More specifically, the overall control CPU 22a generates an effect symbol left, an effect symbol in the effect symbol, and an effect symbol right (each effect symbol is of the same type) based on the special symbol. For example, if the special symbol is “1”, the effect symbol is “1”, and if the special symbol is “2”, the effect symbol is “2”. The generated effect symbols (effect symbol left, middle, and right) are derived as a final combination to the symbol display device 60. Then, the overall control CPU 22a stores data corresponding to the generated effect symbol left, the effect symbol, and the effect symbol right in the overall RAM.

  When the special symbol stored in the overall RAM is “−” and the variation patterns stored in the overall RAM are the variation patterns P2 and P4 for the lost reach production, the overall control CPU 22a shown in FIG. Determining losing reach. In this case, the overall control CPU 22a determines the effect symbols left, middle, and right so that the left column and the right column are the same type of symbols, and the middle column is a different type of symbols from the left and right columns. Specifically, the effect symbol left and the effect symbol right (both effect symbols are of the same type) are generated on the basis of the random number value for the lost symbol. Then, an effect symbol is generated based on the value of the random symbol for the lose symbol. Then, the overall control CPU 22a stores data corresponding to the generated effect symbol left, the effect symbol, and the effect symbol right in the overall RAM. In the present embodiment, the numbers that can be taken by random numbers for the left symbol for lost, the random number for right for lost, and the random number for lost symbol are 10 integers from 0 to 9, and one numerical value corresponds to each type of symbol. It is attached.

  When the special symbol stored in the overall RAM is “−” and the variation pattern stored in the overall RAM is the variation pattern P1 for the lost effect, the overall control CPU 22a shown in FIG. 3 determines the loss. To do. In this case, the overall control CPU 22a generates the effect symbols left, middle, and right so that all the columns do not become the same type of symbols (that is, do not become a jackpot symbol combination). Further, the overall control CPU 22a generates the effect symbols left, middle, and right so as not to be a reach symbol combination. Then, the overall control CPU 22a stores data corresponding to the generated effect symbol left, the effect symbol, and the effect symbol right in the overall RAM.

  When determining the effect symbol, the overall control CPU 22a sets (stores) the variation time associated with the variation pattern stored in the overall RAM as the effect symbol timer in the timer storage area of the overall RAM. Further, the overall control CPU 22a uses, as control commands, a change pattern designation command for designating a change pattern stored in the overall RAM as a control command, and the voice / lamp control of the voice / lamp control board 24. Output to the CPU 24a. As a result, the specific contents of the game effects executed by the display control board 23 and the sound / lamp control board 24 are comprehensively controlled by the overall control board 22.

  Further, the overall control CPU 22a shown in FIG. 3 outputs an effect symbol left designation command for designating the effect symbol left of the effect symbol to the display control CPU 23a as a control command. Similarly, the overall control CPU 22a outputs to the display control CPU 23a, as control commands, an effect symbol right designation command that designates the effect symbol right of the effect symbol and an effect symbol middle designation command that designates the effect symbol of the effect symbol. . Further, the overall control CPU 22a subtracts the effect symbol timer set at the start of the change every interrupt (4 ms). Thereafter, when the effect symbol timer reaches 0 ms, the overall control CPU 22a outputs the symbol stop command input from the main CPU 21a to the display control CPU 23a and the voice / lamp control CPU 24a as a control command.

  Further, when the ball lending operation signal is input from the main CPU 21a, the overall control CPU 22a shown in FIG. 3 distributes the variation pattern stored in the overall RAM and the notification effect pattern distribution also stored in the overall RAM. Based on the value of the random number, any one of the notification effect patterns SP0 to SP3 is determined from the notification effect determination table 1 (see FIG. 5). That is, the overall control CPU 22a selects and executes one notification effect from a plurality of notification effects having different notification contents based on the ball lending operation signal. That is, the overall control CPU 22a has a function as “notification effect determination means”.

  More specifically, when the variation pattern P1 for loss effect is stored in the overall RAM, the overall control CPU 22a performs no notification effect regardless of the value of the random number for distribution of the notification effect pattern stored in the overall RAM. The notification effect pattern SP0 is determined. On the other hand, when any of the variation patterns P2 to P5 is stored in the overall RAM, the overall control CPU 22a sets the notification effect patterns SP0 to SP3 based on the notification effect pattern distribution random numbers stored in the overall RAM. Determine one of them.

  It should be noted that the notification effects executed based on the notification effect patterns SP0 to SP3 have different appearance rates depending on the level of expectation that the result of the special symbol variation game is a big hit. For example, when a special symbol variation game that is a big hit based on the variation pattern P5 is executed, that is, when the expectation that the result of the special symbol variation game is a big hit is the highest, the notification effect based on the notification effect pattern SP3 Appears at a probability of 50/100, a notification effect based on the notification effect pattern SP2 appears at a probability of 30/100, and a notification effect based on the notification effect pattern SP1 appears at a probability of 14/100. A notification effect based on the effect pattern SP0 appears with a probability of 6/100. Further, when the special symbol variation game that is a big hit based on the variation pattern P3 is executed, that is, when the expectation that the result of the special symbol variation game is a big hit is the second highest, it is based on the notification effect pattern SP2. The notification effect appears with a probability of 40/100, the notification effect based on the notification effect pattern SP3 appears with a probability of 30/100, and the notification effect based on the notification effect pattern SP1 appears with a probability of 20/100. The notification effect based on the notification effect pattern SP0 appears with a probability of 10/100. Further, when a special symbol variation game that is a loser reach is executed based on the variation pattern P4, that is, when the expectation that the result of the special symbol variation game is a big hit is the third lowest, the notification effect pattern SP1 is displayed. A notification effect based on the notification effect pattern SP0 appears with a probability of 30/100, and a notification effect based on the notification effect pattern SP2 appears with a probability of 20/100. The notification effect based on the notification effect pattern SP3 appears with a probability of 10/100. Further, when a special symbol variation game that is a loser reach is executed based on the variation pattern P2, that is, when the expectation that the result of the special symbol variation game is a big hit is the fourth lowest, the notification effect pattern SP1 is displayed. A notification effect based on the notification effect pattern SP0 appears with a probability of 50/100, a notification effect based on the notification effect pattern SP0 appears with a probability of 30/100, and a notification effect based on the notification effect pattern SP2 appears with a probability of 14/100. The notification effect based on the notification effect pattern SP3 appears with a probability of 6/100. Further, when the special symbol variation game that is lost based on the variation pattern P1 is executed, that is, when the expectation that the result of the special symbol variation game is a big hit is the lowest, the notification effect based on the notification effect pattern SP0. Appears at a probability of 100% (100/100), but the probability that a notification effect based on the notification effect patterns SP1 to SP3 appears is 0% (0/100).

  Further, the overall control CPU 22a shown in FIG. 3 is configured to execute a notification effect when the special symbol variation game executed based on the above-described number-of-holds information includes a big hit. More specifically, the control ROM stores a notification effect determination table 2 (see FIG. 6) in which notification effect patterns SP0, SP2, and SP3 for notification effects executed based on the number-of-holds information are distributed. Yes. In the present embodiment, the notification effect patterns SP0, SP2, SP3 assigned to the notification effect determination table 2 are the same as the notification effect patterns SP0, SP2, SP3 assigned to the notification effect determination table 1. For this reason, the notification effects executed based on the respective notification effect patterns are also the same. When the first hold number information signal is input from the main CPU 21a, the overall control CPU 22a receives the notification effect from the notification effect determination table 2 based on the value of the notification effect pattern distribution random number stored in the overall RAM. The pattern SP2 or SP3 is determined. On the other hand, when the second hold number information signal is input from the main CPU 21a, the overall control CPU 22a receives the notification effect from the notification effect determination table 2 based on the value of the random number for notification effect pattern distribution stored in the overall RAM. One of the patterns SP0, SP2, and SP3 is determined. In the present embodiment, when the first hold number information signal is input, the notification effect pattern SP0 is associated with zero notification effect pattern distribution random values, and the notification effect pattern SP2 is 40 pieces. The notification effect pattern distribution random values (0 to 39) are associated with each other, and the notification effect pattern SP3 is associated with 60 notification effect pattern distribution random values (40 to 99). When the second hold number information signal is input, 84 notification effect pattern distribution random numbers (0 to 83) are associated with the notification effect pattern SP0, and 10 information notification pattern SP2 is associated with the notification effect pattern SP2. The notification effect pattern distribution random numbers (84 to 93) are associated, and the notification effect pattern SP3 is associated with six notification effect pattern distribution random values (94 to 99).

  Thereafter, the overall control CPU 22a outputs a notification effect pattern designation command for designating the selected notification effect pattern to the display control CPU 23a of the display control board 23 and the voice / lamp control CPU 24a of the voice / lamp control board 24.

(4-3) Electrical Configuration of Display Control Board 23 As shown in FIG. 3, the display control board 23 includes a display control CPU 23a which is a “game control means”, and the display control CPU 23a includes a display ROM ( A display RAM (not shown) and a display RAM (not shown) are connected. The display RAM temporarily stores (sets) various information that can be appropriately rewritten during the operation of the pachinko machine 10.

  The display ROM stores a plurality of types of display effect data used when the effect symbol variation game is performed. The display effect data is information for the display control CPU 23a to control the display content (symbol fluctuation or the like) of the symbol display device 60, that is, information for instructing the symbol display device 60 to execute the display effect. Furthermore, the display ROM stores notification effect display effect data used when the notification effect is executed. The display effect data for notification effect is information for the display control CPU 23a to instruct the symbol display device 60 to execute the notification effect.

  When a variation pattern designation command is input from the overall control CPU 22a shown in FIG. 3, the display control CPU 23a stores the variation pattern designated by the variation pattern designation command in the display RAM. Further, when an effect symbol left designation command is input from the overall control CPU 22a, the display control CPU 23a stores the effect symbol left designated by the command in the display RAM. Similarly, when an effect symbol right designation command is input from the overall control CPU 22a, the display control CPU 23a stores the effect symbol right designated by the command in the display RAM, and when the effect symbol designation command is input, The effect design specified by the command is stored in the display RAM.

  After that, when a symbol stop command is input from the overall control CPU 22a, the display control CPU 23a causes the symbol display device 60 to display the symbol effect on the symbol display device 60 based on the effect symbols left, right, and center that are input at the start of variation and stored in the display RAM. The instruction to stop is. Thereby, the designated effect symbol is stopped and displayed on the symbol display device 60.

  When the variation pattern designation command is input, the display control CPU 23a shown in FIG. 3 sets (generates) any one of a plurality of types of display effect data stored in the display ROM, and sets it. Display effect data is stored in a storage area of the display RAM. Thereby, the display control CPU 23a comes to perform display control based on the variation pattern designation command and the display effect data. More specifically, the display control CPU 23a converts display effect data stored in the display RAM into a symbol signal and outputs the symbol signal to the symbol display device 60. As a result, the symbol display device 60 can perform a predetermined display (such as an effect symbol variation game) based on the symbol signal.

  When the notification effect pattern designation command is input, the display control CPU 23a sets (generates) any one of the notification effect display effect data stored in the display ROM, and sets the notification effect display. The effect data is stored in the storage area of the display RAM. Accordingly, the display control CPU 23a performs display control based on the notification effect pattern designation command and the notification effect display effect data. More specifically, the display control CPU 23a converts the display effect data for notification effect stored in the display RAM into a notification effect signal and outputs the notification effect signal to the symbol display device 60. As a result, the symbol display device 60 can execute a predetermined display (notification effect) based on the notification effect signal.

(4-4) Electrical configuration of voice / lamp control board 24 As shown in FIG. 3, the voice / lamp control board 24 includes a voice / lamp control CPU 24a which is a “game control means”. A sound / lamp ROM (not shown) and a sound / lamp RAM (not shown) are connected to the lamp control CPU 24a. In the sound / lamp RAM, various types of information that are appropriately rewritten during the operation of the pachinko machine 10 are temporarily stored (set).

  The voice / lamp ROM stores a plurality of types of light emission effect data and a plurality of types of sound effect data used when the effect symbol variation game is performed. The light effect data is information for the sound / lamp control CPU 24a to control the light emission output mode of the frame lamps 16a to 16c. The voice effect data is information for the voice / lamp control CPU 24a to control the voice output mode (sound effect type, language voice type, voice output time, etc.) of the speaker 17 (see FIG. 3). . The speaker 17 is for outputting various sounds and performing sound effects. Furthermore, the effect data for notification effect used when the notification effect is executed is stored in the voice / lamp ROM. The effect data for notification effect is information for the voice / lamp control CPU 24a to instruct the frame lamps 16a to 16c and the speaker 17 to execute the notification effect.

  When a fluctuation pattern designation command is input from the overall control CPU 22a shown in FIG. 3, the voice / lamp control CPU 24a stores the fluctuation pattern designated by the fluctuation pattern designation command in the voice / lamp RAM. ing. Thereafter, when a symbol stop command is input from the overall control CPU 22a, the sound / lamp control CPU 24a instructs to stop the light emission of the frame lamps 16a to 16c and to stop the sound output of the speaker 17.

  When a change pattern designation command is input, the sound / lamp control CPU 24a sets (generates) any one of a plurality of types of light emission effect data stored in the sound / lamp ROM, and sets the set light emission. The effect data is stored in the storage area of the voice / lamp RAM. Thereby, the voice / lamp control CPU 24a performs the light emission control based on the light emission effect data corresponding to the variation pattern designation command. More specifically, the sound / lamp control CPU 24a converts the light emission effect data stored in the sound / lamp RAM into a light emission control signal and outputs it to the frame lamps 16a to 16c. As a result, the frame lamps 16a to 16c can perform a predetermined light emission operation (lighting, blinking, etc.) based on the light emission control signal.

  When a change pattern designation command is input, the voice / lamp control CPU 24a shown in FIG. 3 sets (generates) any one of a plurality of types of voice effect data stored in the voice / lamp ROM. Thus, the set audio production data is stored in the storage area of the audio / lamp RAM. Thereby, the voice / lamp control CPU 24a performs voice control based on the voice effect data corresponding to the variation pattern designation command. More specifically, the sound / lamp control CPU 24 a converts sound effect data stored in the sound / lamp RAM into a sound signal and outputs the sound signal to the speaker 17. As a result, the speaker 17 can perform a predetermined output operation (sound output) based on the audio signal.

  When the notification effect pattern designation command is input, the voice / lamp control CPU 24a sets (generates) any one of the notification effect production data stored in the voice / lamp ROM, and sets the notification. The production data for production is stored in the storage area of the voice / lamp RAM. As a result, the sound / lamp control CPU 24a performs light emission control and sound control based on the notification effect pattern designation command and the notification effect production data. More specifically, the sound / lamp control CPU 24a converts the effect data for notification effect stored in the sound / lamp RAM into a light emission control signal and a sound signal, and outputs them to the frame lamps 16a to 16c and the speaker 17. As a result, the frame lamps 16a to 16c and the speaker 17 can execute a predetermined output operation (notification effect) based on the light emission control signal and the audio signal.

  Next, a method for performing a notification effect using the ball lending button 81 will be described.

  In the case of lending a ball, the player operates the ball lending button 81 during the variable game. Here, when the variation game is performed based on the variation pattern P1 for the lose effect, the game ball (rented ball) is paid out by the ball dispensing device 26 as it is. That is, when a lose effect is performed in the variable game of the present embodiment, the notification effect is not executed.

  On the other hand, when the variation game is played based on the variation patterns P2 and P4 for the lost reach effect and the variation patterns P3 and P5 for the jackpot effect, the notification effect is executed before the game ball is paid out. Is done. More specifically, when the floating game is played based on the variation patterns P2 and P4 for the losing reach production, a notification is displayed on the symbol display device 60 that "Is it okay to lend a ball?" It is most likely that the production will be executed. In this case, it is notified by the notification effect that the player is allowed to lend a ball. Then, if the player who has seen the notification effect operates the ball lending button 81 again within a specified time (5 s in the present embodiment), the operation of the ball lending button 81 becomes effective, and the game ball by the ball payout device 26 Will be paid out.

  Further, when the changing game is played based on the changing pattern P3 for the big hit effect, there is a high possibility that the notification effect for displaying the characters “Don't give up yet” on the symbol display device 60 is executed. Furthermore, when the variable game is played based on the variation pattern P5 for the big hit effect, there is a high possibility that the notification effect for displaying the characters “may be a big hit” on the symbol display device 60 is executed. In these cases, the notification effect informs the player that ball lending should be suspended. At this time, the player expects that “the result of the variable game is a big hit?”. Then, if the player stops the operation of the ball lending button 81 by looking at the notification effect, the payout of the game ball is stopped. In this case, it is possible to avoid the risk that the player feels lost due to a big hit immediately after lending a ball. If the player dares to operate the ball lending button 81 again despite seeing the notification effect, the operation of the ball lending button 81 becomes effective and the game ball is paid out. .

  Therefore, according to the present embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.

  (1) In the pachinko machine 10 of this embodiment, the appearance rate of the notification effect executed based on the notification effect pattern is high or low in expectation that the result of the variable game is a big hit (specifically, the type of the variable pattern ), The relevance between the operation of the ball lending button 81 for executing the notification effect and the variable game can be increased. Moreover, by operating the ball lending button 81 and causing the notification effect to appear, it is possible to estimate the high expectation that the result of the variable game will be a big hit. From the above, the player's interest and expectation for the symbol variation game can be increased, so that the player's interest can be improved.

  (2) In the present embodiment, the notification effect based on the notification effect pattern SP2 or SP3 is executed not only by the symbol variation game currently being executed but also by making a prefetch determination with reference to the number-of-holds information. For this reason, it is possible to surely reduce the risk of ball lending unfavorable to the player while giving the player the expectation that the result of the symbol variation game to be played in the future will be a big hit based on the number-of-holds information Can do.

  In addition, you may change this embodiment as follows.

  In the above embodiment, after executing the notification effect based on the ball rental operation signal input from the ball rental button 81, the ball rental operation signal from the ball rental button 81 is within a specified time after the start of the notification effect. The game ball is paid out by the ball payout device 26 in response to the input again. That is, when the notification effect is executed, the game ball is paid out when the ball lending button 81 is operated twice. However, when the notification effect is executed, the game ball may be paid out when the ball lending button 81 is operated three times or more. Further, regardless of whether or not the notification effect is executed, the game ball may be paid out when the ball lending button 81 is operated only once.

  In the above embodiment, the type of notification effect that appears is changed according to the content of the changing game (that is, the type of the changing pattern) being executed when the ball lending button 81 is operated. . However, the type of notification effect may be changed according to the elapsed time from the start of the variable game.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 7, in the first period from the start of a variable game to the start of reach production, it is possible to predict completely whether the result of the variable game will be a big hit or a loss. Can not. Therefore, when the ball lending button 81 is operated during the first period, a notification effect (for example, the characters “not yet!” Is displayed on the symbol display device 60) suggesting that the ball lending operation should not be performed. The ball lending may be put on hold by executing the effect. On the other hand, in the second period from the start of reach production to the end of the variable game, the result of the variable game is a big hit by confirming the contents of the reach production (normal reach or super reach, etc.) There is a possibility of predicting whether it will be lost or lost. Therefore, when the ball lending button 81 is operated during the second period, a notification effect suggesting that the ball lending should be performed (for example, an effect of displaying the characters “Lose Kana…” on the symbol display device 60). Or by performing a notification effect confirming that the ball is lent (for example, an effect of displaying the characters “Is it okay to lend a ball?” On the symbol display device 60) to allow the ball lending. It may be. Furthermore, during the second period, the type of notification effect may be changed between a period before the development to super reach (first half period) and a period after the development to super reach (second half period). . For example, when the ball lending button 81 is operated during the first half period, a notification effect may be executed in which the characters “Is it lendable to lend a ball?” Are displayed on the symbol display device 60. When the ball lending button 81 is operated during the second half period in which it is easier to predict that the result of the variable game will be a big hit than the first half period, the characters “ball lending OK” are displayed on the symbol display device 60. A notification effect may be executed.

  Therefore, in the above case, since the lending of the ball is suspended or permitted according to the development of the variable game, the relevance between the operation of the ball lending button 81 and the symbol variable game is further increased. Specifically, when the ball lending button 81 is operated during the first period in which the result of the floating game cannot be predicted at all, the characters “not yet!” Are displayed on the symbol display device 60. It becomes easier for the person to determine that the ball lending button 81 should not be operated. Therefore, during the first period, the risk of lending a ball unfavorable to the player is reliably reduced. On the other hand, when the ball lending button 81 is operated during the second period in which there is a possibility that the result of the variable game can be predicted, the characters “Lose Kana…” on the symbol display device 60 or “ Since the characters "Is it okay to lend a ball?" Are displayed, the player can determine whether or not to operate the ball lending button 81 after understanding that the risk is high. Therefore, during the second period, the player can be convinced of the result even when the ball lending disadvantageous to the player is performed as a result of operating the ball lending button 81. Further, when changing the type of notification effect between the first half period and the second half period, when the ball lending button 81 is operated during the first half period, the symbol display device 60 is asked, “Is it okay to lend a ball?” Is displayed, the player can determine whether or not to operate the ball lending button 81 after understanding that the risk is high. In addition, when the ball lending button 81 is operated during the second half period in which it is easier to predict the result of the variable game than the first half period, the characters “ball lending OK” are displayed on the symbol display device 60. It can be determined that the ball lending button 81 may be operated during the latter half of the period when the risk is low.

  In the above embodiment, the notification effect is executed in response to an operation (ball lending operation) of the ball lending button 81 during the variable game. However, the notification effect may be executed in response to an operation (return operation) of the return button 82 during the variable game. For example, when the variation game is played based on the variation pattern P1 for loss production or the variation patterns P2 and P4 for loss reach production, the characters “Is it OK to return?” To the symbol display device 60. You may make it perform the alerting | reporting effect which displays. Further, when the variation game is played based on the variation patterns P3 and P5 for the big hit effect, the characters “Don't give up yet” and the characters “may be a big hit” are displayed on the symbol display device 60. A notification effect may be executed. In this case, since the player is informed that the possibility of a big hit is high, it is possible to discourage the player from stopping the game and going home. Furthermore, even when the game is not in a fluctuating game, the notification effect may be executed with the operation of the return button 82 as an opportunity. For example, when the return button 82 is operated by mistake during the demonstration effect, the symbol display device 60 may be caused to execute a notification effect that displays the characters “still early”.

  In the above embodiment, a special symbol variation is performed based on the number-of-holds information by making a jackpot determination based on the game ball (starting-holding ball) included in the number-of-holds information and confirming the determination result of the jackpot determination Whether or not the game includes a big hit was determined. However, by checking the type of variation pattern included in the number-of-holds information, it may be determined whether or not a special symbol variation game performed based on the number-of-holds information includes a big hit.

  In the above embodiment, the notification effect patterns SP0, SP2, SP3 for notification effect executed based on the variation pattern, and the notification effect patterns SP0, SP2, SP3 for notification effect executed based on the hold number information Are the same, and the notification effects executed based on the respective notification effect patterns are also the same. That is, in the above embodiment, the player cannot determine whether the notification effect being executed is based on the variation pattern or based on the number-of-holds information.

  However, the notification effect pattern for notification effect that is executed based on the variation pattern and the notification effect pattern for notification effect that is executed based on the number-of-holds information are made different from each other. It is good also as a thing different from the alerting | reporting effect performed based on. That is, the player may be able to determine whether the notification effect being executed is based on the variation pattern or based on the number-of-holds information.

  In the above embodiment, the overall control CPU 22a selects and executes one notification effect from a plurality of notification effects. However, the main CPU 21a may select and execute the notification effect. Good. That is, the main CPU 21a may have a function as “notification effect determination means”.

  In the above embodiment, the main CPU 21a determines whether or not the special symbol variation game executed based on the number-of-holds information stored in the main RAM includes a big hit. However, the overall control CPU 22a may determine whether or not the big symbol is included in the special symbol variation game performed based on the number-of-holds information. That is, the overall control CPU 22a may be provided with a function as “holding storage information determination means”.

  Next, in addition to the technical ideas described in the claims, the technical ideas grasped by the embodiment described above are listed below.

  (1) In the means 3, the game control means is electrically connected to the main control means having the function as the reserved storage information determination means and the main control means, and has the function as the notification effect determining means. And a sub-control means.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 ... Pachinko machine 18 as game machine ... Ball lending button 21a as operation means ... Main CPU as game control means and reserved memory information determination means
22a ... Overall control CPU as game control means and notification effect determination means
23a ... Display control CPU as game control means
24a: Voice / lamp control CPU as game control means
25 ... Payout control board 26 as payout control means ... Ball payout device 51 as ball payout means ... Start winning device 60 as start winning means ... Symbol display device as symbol display means

Claims (4)

A symbol display means for displaying a symbol change game for changing a symbol in response to winning of a game ball in the start winning means;
An operation means that is arranged on the machine surface side and outputs an operation signal when a player performs a ball lending operation or a return operation during the symbol variation game,
Game control means for controlling the gaming machine;
A gaming machine that is electrically connected to the game control means and includes a payout control means for controlling payout of a game ball by the ball payout means based on a payout instruction from the game control means,
The game control means includes notification effect determining means for selecting and executing one notification effect from a plurality of notification effects having different notification contents based on the operation signal input from the operation means,
The gaming machine characterized in that the plurality of notification effects have different appearance rates according to the level of expectation that the result of the symbol variation game is a big hit. The notification content is an effect that suggests whether or not to perform a ball lending operation by a player, or an effect that confirms that a ball lending by the ball payout means is performed,
The game control means instructs the payout control means to pay out a game ball when the operation signal is input again within a specified time after the start of the notification effect. The gaming machine according to claim 1. The game control means includes
Hold storage means for storing the number of winning game balls to the start winning means as hold number information;
A holding storage information determining means for determining whether or not the symbol variation game performed based on the holding number information includes a game with a high expectation level to be a big hit,
An effect that suggests whether or not a player should perform a ball lending operation when it is determined that the symbol variation game performed based on the number-of-holds information includes a game with a high expectation level that is a big hit The game machine according to claim 1, wherein an effect of confirming that a ball lending by the ball paying means is performed is executed.   The probability that an effect that suggests whether or not to perform a ball lending operation by a player or an effect that confirms that a ball lending by the ball payout means is performed is determined after the start of the symbol variation game. The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the gaming machine changes according to an elapsed time.

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