JP5984904B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine that, when a lottery is performed in response to an occurrence of an event during a game, displays a symbol in a manner that indicates the result of the lottery after displaying a variation of the symbol.

  Conventionally, lottery elements are memorized by winning at the starting point generated during the game, and when the number of memorized (the number of reserved balls) reaches the upper limit, no more lottery elements are memorized, A prior art is known that, when a winning is detected in layers, notifies the presence / absence of a privilege and the degree of expectation for each lottery element (holding ball) stored so far (see, for example, Patent Document 1). .

  In addition, as another prior art, when the number of stored lottery elements (the number of reserved balls) reaches the upper limit, the number of invalid balls of the game balls won at the starting port is counted, and the probability of occurrence of the invalid balls is counted. A gaming machine that sets a reach pattern to appear from among “super reach”, “special reach”, and “premium reach” is known (for example, see Patent Document 2).

JP 2001-334032 A JP 2003-334319 A

  The former prior art (Patent Document 1) discloses the degree of expectation of the lottery result prior to the variable display when the winning is detected before the variable display of the symbol is actually started using the memory of the lottery element. It is something to try.

  However, even if the number of stored lottery elements reaches the maximum value, if the winning of the game ball cannot be detected from there, there will be no noticeable change and only the usual games will be played as before . For this reason, there is a problem that it is difficult for a player who frequently uses a method of stopping the launch of a game ball when the number of memories is maximized to notice the presence of the notification function itself.

  In addition, the latter prior art (Patent Document 2) will increase the appearance probability of “Premium Reach”, which has a very low appearance probability in a normal state, as the number of invalid balls increases, and then connect it to a privilege when a big hit is allocated. It is what.

  However, in the case of the latter prior art, even if the game ball wins the starting gate when the number of lottery elements has reached the upper limit, the period until the bonus is obtained (the next big hit The period until it is obtained is completely unknown. For this reason, even if you continue to launch game balls with the maximum number of memories, you can not enjoy the benefits immediately, so there is a problem that launching game balls can be a wasteful work is there.

  Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a technique that can surely execute an effect according to conditions, and that can make a player feel the benefit of the effect.

The present invention employs the following solutions.
Solution D1: In the gaming machine of the present invention, a first lottery element or a second lottery element necessary for a predetermined internal lottery is provided on condition that a first event or a second event that becomes a lottery trigger occurs during a game. The lottery element acquisition means for acquiring the internal lottery on condition that the first lottery element or the second lottery element is acquired by the lottery element acquisition means with the occurrence of the first event or the second event Is executed, after the first symbol corresponding to the first event that triggered the lottery or the second symbol corresponding to the second event is displayed variably over a predetermined variation time, the internal lottery The symbol display means for stopping and displaying the first symbol or the second symbol in a manner representing the result of the above, and the start condition for starting the variable display of the first symbol or the second symbol by the symbol display means is satisfied Is If the first event or the second event occurs in the absence of the lottery element storage means for storing the first lottery element or the second lottery element acquired by the lottery element acquisition means, and the start condition is satisfied When the first event or the second event occurs in the state that has been made, the internal lottery is executed using the first lottery element or the second lottery element acquired by the lottery element acquisition means, the symbol display At least one of the first lottery element or the second lottery element is stored by the lottery element storage means at the end of the stop display after the first symbol or the second symbol is displayed by the means. The lottery execution means for executing the internal lottery using the memory of the first lottery element or the second lottery element, and the first event or the previous event when the start condition is not satisfied. When the second event has occurred and the first lottery element or the second lottery element acquired by the lottery element acquisition unit is newly stored by the lottery element storage unit, the lottery execution unit A destination determination means for determining in advance the result of the internal lottery using the new first lottery element or the second lottery element before being used for the internal lottery, and the first symbol by the symbol display means or the At the time of the variation display of the second symbol, after the variation display effect corresponding to the variation display of the first symbol or the second symbol is executed at least within the variation time, the first symbol or the second symbol is displayed by the symbol display means. 2 design effect execution means for executing a stop display effect corresponding to the stop display mode of 2 symbols, the number of the first lottery elements stored by the lottery element storage means, and the storage of the second lottery elements A memory number display effect executing means for executing a memory number display effect in a mode of displaying a total memory number within the range of the specified number, and the symbol effect in a state where the total memory number is less than the specified number While the variable display effect is being executed by the execution means, the memory number increase promotion effect is executed in such a manner that the aspect of the total memory number displayed in the memory number display effect is increased to the specified number. Memory number increase promotion effect execution means.

  Solution D2: In the gaming machine of solution D1, when the total stored number reaches a specified number, the first symbol or the second symbol change display and stop display executed by the symbol display unit thereafter. Within the period until the number reaches the specified number at the maximum, based on the previous determination result by the destination determination means for storing any of the first lottery element or the second lottery element included in the specified number Then, it is suggested that the first symbol or the second symbol may be stopped and displayed in a manner representing the winning result after the first symbol or the second symbol is displayed by the symbol display means. Special period effect execution means for executing the special period effect of the aspect is further provided.

The present invention employs the following means for solving the above-described problems. The wording in parentheses is merely an example, and the present invention is not limited to this.
Solution 1: In the gaming machine of the present invention, the first event or the second event that becomes a lottery opportunity occurs during the game (occurrence of winning at the left start winning opening, occurrence of winning at the right starting winning opening) The lottery element acquisition means for acquiring the first lottery element or the second lottery element necessary for the internal lottery related to the player's profit (for example, the profit that the variable winning device is activated) When the internal lottery is executed on the condition that the first lottery element or the second lottery element has been acquired by the lottery element acquisition unit in association with the occurrence of one event or the second event, the lottery trigger is given. The first design corresponding to the first event (for example, including a symbol visually recognized) or the second symbol corresponding to the second event (also including, for example, a symbol visually recognized) At the specified fluctuation time The symbol display means for stopping and displaying the first symbol or the second symbol in a manner representing the result of the internal lottery, and the variation of the first symbol or the second symbol by the symbol display means. The first event or the first event in a state where the start condition for starting the display (for example, the condition that the symbol is not changing and the symbol is stopped when the previous change is made) is not satisfied When the second event occurs, the first lottery element or the second lottery element acquired by the lottery element acquisition unit is stored in the order of acquisition, and the first lottery element or the second lottery element is stored. When each storage number reaches the maximum value, the new memory of the first lottery element or the second lottery element is limited (the memory may be limited by acquiring the lottery element or acquired. Break the lottery element And the first event acquired by the lottery element acquisition unit when the first event or the second event occurs while the start condition is satisfied. The lottery element or the second lottery element is used to execute the internal lottery, and the lottery element memory is stored at the end of the stop display after the symbol display means performs the variable display of the first symbol or the second symbol. When at least one of the first lottery element or the second lottery element is stored by the means, the lottery execution means for executing the internal lottery using the first lottery element or the second lottery element in the order stored. And the first lottery element or the second lottery element acquired by the lottery element acquisition means when the first event or the second event occurs in a state where the start condition is not satisfied. Is newly stored in the lottery element storage means, the result of the internal lottery using the new first lottery element or the second lottery element before being used for the internal lottery by the lottery execution means. At the time of the variation display of the first symbol or the second symbol by the destination determination means to be determined in advance and the symbol display means, it is made to correspond to the variation display of the first symbol or the second symbol at least within the variation time After executing the variable display effect, the symbol effect executing means for executing the stop display effect corresponding to the stop display mode of the first symbol or the second symbol by the symbol display means, and the lottery element storage means When the total number of memories obtained by adding the number of memories of one lottery element and the number of memories of the second lottery element reaches a specified number, the first symbol executed by the symbol display means thereafter Regarding the storage of any of the first lottery elements or the second lottery elements included in the prescribed number within the period until the maximum number of variable display and stop display of the second symbol reaches the prescribed number The first symbol or the second symbol is stopped in such a manner that the winning result is displayed after the first symbol or the second symbol is changed and displayed by the symbol display unit on the basis of the previous determination result by the first determining unit. Special period effect execution means for executing a special period effect in a mode that suggests that there is a possibility of being displayed.

  The gaming machine of the present invention performs an internal lottery using lottery elements (first lottery element or second lottery element) corresponding to each of a plurality of symbols (at least the first symbol and the second symbol). However, even if there are multiple symbols, the internal lottery is not performed in parallel. In other words, when the gaming machine of the present invention performs one internal lottery, it displays a variation of the corresponding symbol, stops and displays the symbol in a manner representing the result of the internal lottery, and then performs the next internal lottery. Run.

  In order to execute the internal lottery, it is necessary that an event (first event or second event) that becomes a lottery trigger has occurred. For this reason, the player will play the game with the initial goal of generating an event that will be the lottery trigger, but the first and second events that will be the lottery trigger will be random (or accidental or random). Occurs. Then, whenever the first event or the second event occurs during the game, the first lottery element or the second lottery element is acquired. The first lottery element and the second lottery element correspond to the first symbol and the second symbol, respectively.

  On the other hand, it takes a certain amount of time (variation time and stop display time) from when the first symbol or second symbol is displayed to the stop display, and once the symbol display is started. Then, the next internal lottery is not performed until the stop display is completed. For this reason, when an event that becomes a lottery trigger occurs during the symbol variation display (or before the stop display is completed), the lottery elements acquired thereby are stored in the order of acquisition.

  Then, when the symbol start condition (for example, the symbol is not changing and the previous change has been confirmed, the symbol stop display has been confirmed) is satisfied, the lottery stored until then An internal lottery is performed using the elements in the order in which the elements are acquired, and the display of the first symbol or the second symbol is started again. However, the maximum number (for example, four per symbol) is provided for each symbol in the number of memories, and the number of memories does not increase beyond this maximum number.

  In this way, a certain amount of time (fluctuation time) is required for the display of the first symbol or the second symbol each time, but during that time the player is playing a game with the initial goal of generating a lottery opportunity. For example, since the first lottery element or the second lottery element is stored in the order of acquisition, the internal lottery is performed without interruption. Thereby, continuity is given to each internal lottery, and the game can be advanced with a good tempo. It should be noted that a variable display effect is performed during the variable display of the first symbol or the second symbol in the meantime, and the result of each internal lottery is expressed in an effect by the result display effect.

  However, since the internal lottery is performed using the memorized first lottery element or the second lottery element, the first lottery element and the second lottery element that have already been stored are not subject to the preceding internal lottery element. The result is already inherent (inclusive). For this reason, even if it is not yet used for the internal lottery, it is possible to determine the result of the internal lottery in advance using the first lottery element or the second lottery element that is sent to memory. Therefore, even if the result cannot be clearly shown to the player through the stop display mode of the symbol, if the result of the internal lottery is known by the prior determination, the determination result in advance for the production will be based on that result. It is possible to reflect.

  Further, in the present invention, the total number of memories obtained by adding the number of memories of the first lottery element and the number of memories of the second lottery element is defined, rather than performing a single effect based on such a prior determination result. A special effect (special period effect) is executed on condition that the number has been reached. Such special period effects are not performed in a single change display effect or stop display effect each time, but use a period until a maximum number of variable displays and stop displays are performed. Even done. That is, since the variable display is performed a plurality of times during execution of the special period effect, it is possible to make the player clearly recognize such a period spanning the plurality of variations as a “special zone”, for example.

  Furthermore, the special period effect is performed based on the result of determining in advance the lottery result included in the first lottery element or the second lottery element stored so far. Therefore, for the player, the special period effect is not an effect with no contents, but a weighted effect with a history basis.

  In addition, the special period effect is conditional on the total number of memories reaching a specified number during the game. Although the total number of memories exceeds the maximum value of the number of memories for each symbol, the total number of memories does not exceed the total of the maximum values when the number of both memories is summed. Therefore, for the player, “making the total memory number reach the specified number” is never useless (so-called over winning), and there is an advantage that a larger memory number can be accumulated.

And since the special period production is performed within the period until the maximum number of fluctuations after the total number of memories reaches the specified number, it becomes an effect that has a meaning of immediate effect for the player, Benefits from special period effects can be surely enjoyed. As a result, it is possible to give a clear motivation for the player to “reach the total memory number to the specified value” and contribute to the improvement of the operating efficiency of the gaming machine.
According to the gaming machine of the present invention, the player is motivated to reach the specified number of memories during the game, the number of game balls used per unit time is improved, and the operating efficiency of the gaming machine is increased. It can contribute to improvement.

  Solving means 2: In the solving means 1, the special period effect executing means includes at least one of the first lottery element or the second lottery element included in the total stored number that has reached the specified number by the lottery element storage means. In any case, the special period effect can be executed on the basis that the winning result is obtained by the prior determination by the destination determination means.

  According to this solving means, the variable display is performed a plurality of times during the execution of the special period effect, and the winning result is actually obtained soon. When the player experiences such a situation, it becomes easier to recognize that “the generation of the special period effect will lead to the winning” thereafter. For this reason, it is possible to raise the motivation to make the total memory number reach the specified number more and more, making the player aware that “I want to see the special period effect = high possibility of winning”.

  Solution 3: In Solution 1, the gaming machine according to the present invention is a variation pattern that predefines a plurality of types of variation patterns for the variation pattern related to the variation display of the first symbol or the second symbol by the symbol display unit. In the variation display of the first symbol or the second symbol executed by the defining means and the symbol display means, one of a plurality of types of variation patterns defined by the variation pattern defining means is selected and determined. The first lottery element acquired by the lottery element acquisition means and the second lottery element for determining whether or not the internal lottery is successful by the lottery execution means, respectively. A variation pattern determining element for determining a variation pattern by the variation pattern determining means together with a hit determining element When the first lottery element or the second lottery element acquired by the lottery element acquisition unit is newly stored in the lottery element storage unit, the destination determination unit is configured to perform the internal lottery by the lottery execution unit. Before the first lottery element is used, the result of the internal lottery is determined in advance using the new first lottery element or the second lottery element, and is also included in the first lottery element or the second lottery element. It is determined in advance which variation pattern is determined by the variation pattern determination means using the variation pattern determination element, and the special period effect execution means is the sum that has reached the specified number by the lottery element storage means For at least one of the first lottery element and the second lottery element included in the number of memories, a specific type of variation pattern is determined by the destination determination means. As a basis that is determined in advance that is, it is also possible to execute the special period effect.

  According to the present solution, the special period effect can be executed on the basis of the previous determination result regarding the variation pattern, in addition to the fact that the winning result is obtained in the previous determination. In other words, the special period effect may be based on the fact that “winning results have been obtained”, but in view of the probability of winning, the winning results may not be obtained so often. The frequency of executing is naturally limited.

  On the other hand, if the pre-determined result of the variation pattern is based on the solution pattern as in the present solution, the special period effect can be executed without being limited by the winning probability. For example, if the frequency at which a specific type of variation pattern is determined is made higher than the winning probability of the internal lottery, the special period effect can be executed more frequently, so that the appeal to the player is improved accordingly. be able to.

  Solving means 4: In the solving means 2 and 3, the gaming machine according to the present invention has a total memory number obtained by adding together the number of memories of the first lottery element and the number of memories of the second lottery element stored by the lottery element storage means. When the first symbol or the second symbol is displayed by the symbol display means for the first time after the specified number is reached, the special period effect is executed prior to the execution of the special period effect by the special period effect executing means. A start possibility / impossibility effect executing means for executing the start possibility effect according to either the first aspect indicating that the special period effect should not be started or the second aspect indicating that the special period effect should not be started. When the effect execution means determines that the special period effect is executed by the special period effect execution means based on the previous determination result by the destination determination means, the first state If the special period effect execution means determines that the special period effect is not executed on the basis of the previous determination result by the destination determination means, the start enable / disable effect is generated according to the second mode. The special period effect execution means executes the special period effect via the start availability effect when the start availability effect is executed by the first aspect by the start availability effect execution means, and the start availability The special period effect may not be executed when the start execution effect is executed by the effect execution unit according to the second aspect.

  According to this solution, when the total number of memories reaches the specified number, the start availability effect is executed first to attract the player's attention, and from there, future fluctuation display (winning and appearance of specific types of fluctuation patterns) ) Can be branched into two aspects of production related to the degree of expectation of Such a branch differs depending on whether or not the special period effect is actually executed. When the special period effect is executed based on the determination result in advance, this indicates that the special period effect should be started. When the effect of the first aspect is executed and the effect of the special period is not executed, the effect of the second aspect indicating that (the special period effect should not be started) is executed.

  Therefore, even if the total number of memories reaches the specified number, even if it is not possible to actually execute the special period effect, at least the start availability effect is always executed, which is related to the expected degree thereafter. The production can be shown to the player. Accordingly, it is possible to continue to maintain motivation and to lower the operating efficiency without reducing the willingness to reach the specified number of stored memories.

  Solving means 5: In the solving means 4, the start possibility effect executed by the start possibility effect executing means includes an initial start of the variable display of the first symbol or the second symbol executed by the symbol display means. An introduction part to be executed and a main part to be executed subsequently after execution of the introduction part, and the start availability effect executing means executes the start availability effect according to the first aspect, or In either case, the start availability effect is executed by the second aspect, and the start availability effect is executed by using the introduction portion as a common content, and the start availability effect is executed by the first aspect. In the case of performing and the case of executing the start permission / prohibition effect according to the second mode, the start permission / prohibition effect can be executed with the main parts different from each other.

  According to this solution, after the total stored number reaches the specified number, a common effect occurs in the introduction part at the beginning of the first fluctuation, and a branch to the first mode or the second mode occurs in the main part thereafter. To do. As a result, even if the start / impossibility effect is executed, since the subsequent branch is not known until the introduction portion, it is possible to provide a playable game until the end.

  Solving means 6: In the solving means 4 and 5, when the start availability determination execution means determines that the special period effect is not executed by the special period effect execution means on the basis of the previous determination result by the destination determination means, Instead of the second aspect, the start availability effect can be further executed by a third aspect representing giving a predetermined effect privilege to the player.

  According to the present means for solving, when the special period effect is not finally executed after the startable / impossible effect introduction portion is executed, an effect according to another third aspect can be executed. As a result, it is possible to provide more diversity in the branching of the production, and to realize deeper and more varied gaming.

  In addition, the performance according to the third mode does not end with a mere performance, but a feeling of achievement in reaching the specified number of total memories by giving a performance benefit to the player in some form. Can be satisfied.

  Solution 7: In Solution 1 to 6, the gaming machine of the present invention can alternately generate the first event and the second event regardless of the game state (normal state, time reduction state, high probability state). Event generation means is further provided.

  According to this solution, the gaming state is a normal state (for example, a state in which either the first event or the second event occurs at a normal frequency and a standard length is set as a variation time of each symbol) Or a specific gaming state to which a condition different from the normal state is applied (for example, either the first event or the second event can occur at a higher frequency than the normal state, and the variation time of each symbol is the normal state. It is possible to generate two events alternately regardless of whether or not the state is set shorter than

  For this reason, it is possible to easily increase the number of memories to reach the specified number by alternately increasing the number of memories without causing an event that is biased to only the first event or the second event even during the normal state. it can.

  Also, by providing the event generating means, it is possible to make the player aware that the memory of lottery elements tends to increase alternately, and to make sure that the total memory number can be easily reached the specified number easily. it can.

  According to the gaming machine of the present invention, it is possible to contribute to improving the operating efficiency of the gaming machine.

It is a front view of a pachinko machine. It is a rear view of a pachinko machine. It is a front view which shows a game board independently. It is a front view which expands and shows a part of game board about several places. It is a figure explaining the principle of operation of a distribution device (1/2). It is a figure explaining the operation | movement principle of a distribution apparatus (2/2). It is a block diagram which shows the various electronic devices with which the pachinko machine was equipped. It is a flowchart (1/2) which shows the example of a procedure of a reset start process. It is a flowchart (2/2) which shows the example of a procedure of a reset start process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a power-off occurrence check process concretely. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of an interruption management process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a switch input event process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a 1st special symbol memory update process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a 2nd special symbol memory update process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the production | presentation determination process at the time of acquisition. It is a flowchart which shows the structural example of a special symbol game process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the special symbol change pre-processing. It is a figure which shows an example of the fluctuation pattern selection table at the time of loss. It is a figure explaining the variation time of a special symbol. It is a figure which shows the structure row | line | column of the 1st special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table. It is a figure which shows the structure column of the 2nd special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table. It is a figure which shows an example of the fluctuation pattern selection table at the time of 15 round big hit winning. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a special symbol memory | storage area shift process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the special symbol stop display process. It is a flowchart which shows the structural example of a display output management process. It is a flowchart which shows the structural example of a variable winning apparatus management process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a big winning opening opening pattern setting process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a big prize opening / closing operation | movement process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a big winning opening closing process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of an end process. It is a continuation figure showing an example of a production picture corresponding to change display and stop display of a special symbol. It is a continuation figure (1/2) which shows a series of flows from before the execution about the example of production performed on the condition that the total storage number has reached the regulation number. FIG. 33 is a continuous diagram (2/2) showing a series of flows from the example of performance shown in FIG. 32. It is a continuous figure which shows the example of the aspect of the special zone effect performed during the change display and stop display of the special symbol over multiple times. It is a continuation figure showing the flow of reach production performed during special zone production. It is a continuation figure showing the flow of the example of the effect performed when the special zone effect cannot be started. It is a game flow figure which shows the flow on the production | generation produced on condition that the total memory number reached | attained the regulation number. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of effect control processing. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a zone production management process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of an operation | movement memory production | presentation management process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of effect design management processing. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of an effect design change pre-process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a zone effect pattern selection process. It is a figure which shows the structural example of "the zone effect counter initial value classified effect pattern selection table".

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[Configuration of the front of the frame]
In the glass frame unit 4, glass frame top lamps 46 and 48 and glass frame side lamps 50 are installed at a plurality of locations so as to surround the glass unit 8 as components for production. In addition, a tray lamp 52 is installed in the tray unit 6, and the tray lamp 52, the glass frame top lamps 46 and 48, and the glass frame side lamp 50 are integrally connected on the front surface of the pachinko machine 1 in appearance. Designed as if it were.

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

  In the center of the tray unit 6, an effect switching button 45 (operation input receiving means) is installed at a position in front of the upper tray 6b. The player operates the effect switching button 45 to switch the contents of the effect (for example, the background screen displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 42), for example, while the symbol is changing, during the big hit confirmation display, or during the big hit game It is possible to generate some effects (various notice effects, probable promotion effects, etc.).

[Configuration on the back side]
As shown in FIG. 2, on the back side of the pachinko machine 1, there are a power supply control unit 162, a main control board unit 170, a dispensing device unit 172, a flow path unit 173, a launch control board set 174, and a dispensing control board unit 176. A back cover unit 178 and the like are installed. In addition, on the back side of the pachinko machine 1, various electronic devices (including a control computer not shown) constituting the power supply system and control system of the pachinko machine 1, an external terminal board 160, a power cord (power plug) 164, A ground wire (ground terminal) 166, connection wiring (not shown), and the like are installed. The electronic devices will be further described later based on another block diagram (FIG. 7).

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

  The external terminal board 160 is an interface for connecting the pachinko machine 1 to an external electronic device (for example, a data display device, a hall computer, etc.). From the external terminal board 160, the game progress of the pachinko machine 1 is achieved. Various external information signals (for example, award ball information, door opening information, symbol determination number information, jackpot information, start opening information, etc.) indicating the state and maintenance state are output to an external electronic device. Yes.

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

[Configuration of the board]
FIG. 3 is a front view showing the game board 8 alone. In the game area 8a, a starting gate 20, normal winning ports 22, 24, a right starting winning port 26, a variable starting winning device 28, a variable winning device 30, a distribution device 200, and the like are installed. The game balls thrown into the game area 8a randomly pass through the start gate 20 in the process of flowing down, pass through the sorting device 200, or the normal winning ports 22, 24 and the right starting winning port 26. Then, the variable start winning device 28 is won (entered). The game balls that have passed through the start gate 20 continue to flow down in the game area 8a, but the winning game balls are collected to the back side of the game board 8 through through holes formed in the game board.

  The variable start winning device 28 operates when a predetermined condition is satisfied (when the normal symbol is stopped and displayed in a winning manner), and accordingly, the left start winning port 28a can be awarded. (Ordinary electric appliance). The variable start winning device 28 has, for example, a pair of left and right movable pieces 28b, and these movable pieces 28b reciprocate in the left-right direction along the board surface by the action of a link mechanism using a solenoid (not shown), for example. That is, as shown in the drawing, the left and right movable pieces 28b are in the closed position with the tip facing upward, and at this time, winning to the left start winning opening 28a is impossible (there is no gap through which game balls can flow). ing. On the other hand, when the variable start winning device 28 is operated, the left and right movable pieces 28b are displaced (expanded) from the closed position toward the open position, and the opening width of the left start winning port 28a is expanded to the left and right. During this time, the variable start winning device 28 is in a state in which a game ball can flow in, and generates a winning to the left start winning port 28a. Note that the arrangement (gauge) of the obstacle nails installed on the game board 8 is basically a mode in which it is easy to guide the flow of the game balls toward the variable start winning device 28, but the game balls are always variable. The inflow does not necessarily flow into the start winning device 28, but the inflow occurs only at random.

  Here, in the lower part of the ball discharge path 40f and the upper part of the variable start winning device 28 and the right start winning port 26, the sorting device 200 is arranged. Details of the structure and operation of the sorting apparatus 200 will be described later.

  In addition, the above variable winning device 30 operates when a prescribed condition is satisfied (when a special symbol is stopped and displayed in a mode other than non-winning), and can be awarded to a big winning opening (no reference sign). (Special electric equipment, special winning event generation means). The variable winning device 30 is a device disposed on the left side of the upper end portion of the effect unit 40 (so-called upper attacker), and has, for example, one opening / closing member 30a. The opening / closing member 30a is displaced from the closed position toward the open position by the action of a link mechanism using a solenoid (not shown), for example. As shown in the drawing, the opening / closing member 30a is in the closed position (closed state) with the tip facing upward (continuous with the effect unit 40), and at this time, winning in the grand prize opening is always impossible (big winning) The mouth is closed). When the variable winning device 30 is operated, the opening / closing member 30a is displaced so as to fall to the left with the lower end edge portion serving as a hinge, thereby opening the large winning opening (open state). During this time, the variable winning device 30 is in a state in which the inflow of game balls is not impossible, and can generate an event of winning a prize winning opening. At this time, the opening / closing member 30a also functions as a member for guiding the inflow of the game ball to the special winning opening. The game balls that have won the big prize opening pass through the count switch 84 and are detected to win, and then are collected to the back side of the game board 8 through the collection passage (without reference numerals).

  The game board 8 is provided with a production unit 40 from the center position to the right side. The effect unit 40 has an upper edge portion 40a that functions as a guide member that changes the flow direction of the game ball, and includes various decorative parts 40b and 40c on the inner side. The decorative parts 40b and 40c can enhance the decorativeness of the game board 8 by the three-dimensional modeling, and can perform a dramatic operation by emitting transmitted light using, for example, a built-in light emitter (LED or the like). In addition, a liquid crystal display 42 (image display) is installed inside the effect unit 40, and various effect images including an effect symbol corresponding to the special symbol are displayed on the liquid crystal display 42. As described above, the game board 8 impresses the player with the characteristics of the pachinko machine 1 based on the configuration of the board surface (design of a cell plate (not shown)) and the decoration of the effect unit 40.

  A ball guide passage 40d is formed at the left edge of the effect unit 40, and a rolling stage 40e is formed at the lower edge thereof. The ball guide passage 40d is opened obliquely upward to the left in the game area 8a. When a game ball flowing down in the game area 8a randomly flows into the ball guide path 40d, it passes through the inside and rolls. Released onto the stage 40e. The upper surface of the rolling stage 40e has a smooth curved surface. Here, the game ball can roll in the left-right direction. The game ball that has rolled on the rolling stage 40e will eventually flow into the lower game area 8a. A ball discharge path 40f is formed at the center position of the rolling stage 40e. At this time, the game balls that have flowed down from the rolling stage 40e to the ball discharge path 40f are likely to flow into the sorting device 200 directly below. In addition, the production unit 40 may be accompanied by a drive source (eg, a motor, a solenoid, etc.) together with a production movable body (eg, a character figure, decoration, etc.). In addition to the effect using the image by the liquid crystal display 42 and the effect by the light emitter, the movable body for effect can execute the effect accompanied by the operation of the tangible object. Due to the effects using these movable bodies, it is possible to demonstrate appealing power different from the effects using two-dimensional images.

[Total Memory Number Direction Unit]
On the right edge of the effect unit 40, a total memory number effect device unit 41 is installed. The total stored number effect device unit 41 includes, for example, a logo display body 41a and a plurality (eight in this case) of memory display bodies 41b. Among these, the logo display body 41a is arranged at the upper right edge of the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42, and the memory display bodies 41b are arranged in rows from there to the right edge and the lower right edge. Has been.

  The logo display body 41a has a configuration based on, for example, a circular decorative part, and decorative characters (logo marks) designed with alphabets “E” and “Z” are attached to the front surface thereof. Each of the memory display bodies 41b has a configuration based on, for example, a heart-shaped decorative part, and numbers “1” to “8” are attached to the front surface in a manner that is easily visible to the player. Each of the logo display body 41a and the plurality of memory display bodies 41b includes a light emitting device (LED) (not shown). By changing the lighting state (lighting color, lighting pattern), the logo display body. 41a and each memory display body 41b can perform an effect operation by light emission individually.

  Furthermore, the logo display body 41a and the plurality of memory display bodies 41b can also be used as the movable body described above. That is, a logo display motor and a memory display motor (not shown) are installed on the back side of the game board 8, and using these motors as drive sources, a logo display 41a and a gear transmission mechanism are used. Each memory display 41b can be activated. In addition, the specific production | generation aspect accompanying light emission and a movement of the logo display body 41a and the memory display body 41b is mentioned later.

  In addition, an out port 32 is formed in the game area 8 a, and game balls that have not won a prize are finally collected through the out port 32 to the back side of the game board 8. In addition, all the game balls that have been driven into the game area 8a, including the game balls won in the right start winning opening 26, the variable start winning device 28, and the variable winning device 30, are collected to the back side of the game board 8. The collected game balls are discharged out of the frame from the back side of the pachinko machine 1 through an out passage assembly (not shown), and further join a supply path of an island facility (not shown).

  Further, the game board 8 is provided with a normal symbol display device 33 and a normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a, for example, at the lower right position in the window 4a, as well as a first special symbol display device 34 and a second special symbol display device 35. A first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a, a second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a, and a game state display device 38 are provided (normal symbol display means, special symbol display means, lottery element storage means). Among these, the normal symbol display device 33, for example, turns on two lamps (LEDs) alternately to display the normal symbols variably, and stops and displays the normal symbols when the lamps are turned on or off. The normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a displays 0 to 4 memory numbers depending on, for example, a combination of turning off, lighting, or blinking of two lamps (LEDs).

  FIG. 4 is a front view showing a part of the game board 8 in an enlarged manner at a plurality of locations (a lower right position in the window 4a and a position directly below the liquid crystal display 42). Among these, (A) in FIG. 4 shows an enlarged portion where the display of the gaming state including the first special symbol and the second special symbol is performed. FIG. 4B shows the distribution device 200 in an enlarged manner.

  In FIG. 4, (A): First, the first special symbol display device 34 and the second special symbol display device 35 can display the variation state and the stopped state of the special symbol by, for example, 7-segment LEDs (with dots), respectively. (Design display means). In addition, the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a and the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a each display 0 to 4 memory numbers, for example, by combinations of extinguishing, lighting, or blinking of two lamps (LEDs). (Memory number display means). For example, when both lamps are off, 0 is stored, when 1 lamp is lit, 1 is displayed, and when the same lamp is flashing, 2 is displayed. When the other lamp is turned on, 3 stored numbers are displayed, and when the two lamps are both flashed, 4 stored numbers are displayed.

  When the game ball flows into the right start winning opening 26, the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a is displayed one by one in the sense of memorizing that a winning has occurred, and the special symbol changes in response to the winning. Each time is started, the display decreases by one. In addition, when the game ball flows into the variable start winning device 28 (the left start winning port 28a), the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a is displayed one by one in the sense that it stores the winning, Each time the change of the special symbol is started in response to the winning, the display decreases by one. In the present embodiment, when the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a is not lit (the number of memories is 0), the first special symbol can be started to fluctuate (at the time of stop display) in the right start winning opening 26. The display does not increase even if game balls flow in. Further, when the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a is not lit (the number of memories is 0), the variable start winning device 28 (left start winning port 28a) is in a state in which the second special symbol can already start to change (when stopped). ) The display does not increase even if game balls flow into. That is, the number of displays (maximum 4) of each special symbol operation memory lamp 34a, 35a represents the number of winnings that have not yet started to change in the first special symbol or the second special symbol.

  The game state display device 38 includes four LEDs corresponding to, for example, jackpot type display lamps 38a and 38b, a probability variation state display lamp 38c, and a short time state display lamp 38d. In the present embodiment, the normal symbol display device 33, the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a, the first special symbol display device 34, the second special symbol display device 35, the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a, and the second special symbol described above. The operation memory lamp 35a and the game status display device 38 are attached to the game board 8 in a state where they are mounted on one integrated display board 89.

[Configuration of sorting device]
In FIG. 4, (B): The distribution device 200 generates a winning at the right start winning opening 26 (occurrence of the first event) and wins at the variable start winning apparatus 28 (left starting winning opening 28a) regardless of the gaming state. Is a device that can alternately generate (occurrence of the second event) (event generation means).

  The sorting apparatus 200 includes a guide path 201 having a width that allows one game ball to pass therethrough. The guide path 201 has a tunnel-like structure, and two outlets (a first outlet 203 and a second outlet 204) are formed for one inlet 202. Therefore, the game ball that has flowed into the inlet 202 is guided to either the first outlet 203 or the second outlet 204. The guide path 201 is made of a transparent member, and the visibility of the game ball inside thereof is ensured.

  A cylindrical space is formed in the central portion of the guide path 201, and a windmill-shaped rotating body 205 is disposed in the space. The rotating body 205 includes three wing members 205a, 205b, and 205c that extend radially from the central axis of the rotating body 205. The rotating body 205 does not perform an operation by electric or other power, and rotates when the game ball collides with the wing members 205a, 205b, and 205c.

  Here, two protrusions 206 a and 206 b that restrict the rotation of the rotating body 205 are provided in the guide path 201 (near the middle of the first outlet 203 and the second outlet 204) in the lower part of the rotating body 205. Yes. Then, when the wing members 205a and 205b abut against the protrusions 206a and 206b, the rotation of the rotating body 205 is restricted.

  5 and 6 are diagrams for explaining the operating principle of the sorting apparatus 200. FIG. FIG. 5 shows a state where game balls are distributed to the variable start winning device 28 (left start winning port 28a), and FIG. 6 shows a state where game balls are distributed to the right start winning port 26. .

[Distribution to variable start winning device 28 (left start winning port 28a)]
As shown in FIG. 5A, in the initial state, the wing member 205b of the rotating body 205 is in contact with the right protrusion 206b.
When the game ball 300 flows into the inlet 202 in this state, the game ball 300 enters between the wing member 205a and the wing member 205c in the rotator 205, and the rotator 205 turns counterclockwise (counterclockwise) by the weight of the game ball 300. ).

  Then, as shown in FIG. 5B, when the rotating body 205 rotates counterclockwise, the game ball 300 is guided to the first outlet 203, and the game ball 300 is distributed to the variable start winning device 28 side. . The wing member 205a of the rotating body 205 is in contact with the left protrusion 206a, whereby the rotation of the rotating body 205 is restricted. The game balls 300 distributed to the variable start winning device 28 side may win the variable start winning device 28 (left start winning port 28a) as it is, or may be changed by being bounced by a nail above the variable start winning device 28. There is a case where the start winning device 28 is not won. In addition, depending on the state of the nail in the game area 8a, there is also a game ball 300 that wins the variable start winning device 28 without going through the sorting device 200. The member between the left start winning opening 28a and the nail above it is merely a passing gate.

[Distribution to the right start winning entrance 26]
As described above, when the distribution to the variable start winning device 28 (left start winning port 28a) is performed, the wing member 205a of the rotating body 205 is in contact with the left protrusion 206a. .

  As shown in FIG. 6A, when the game ball 300 flows into the inlet 202 in this state, the game ball 300 enters between the wing member 205b and the wing member 205c in the rotating body 205, and the weight of the game ball 300 is increased. This time, the rotating body 205 rotates clockwise (clockwise).

  Then, as shown in FIG. 6B, when the rotating body 205 rotates clockwise, the game ball 300 is guided to the second outlet 204, and the game ball 300 is distributed to the right start winning opening 26 side. . The wing member 205b of the rotator 205 is in contact with the right protrusion 206b, whereby the rotation of the rotator 205 is restricted. The game balls distributed to the right start winning port 26 may be directly awarded to the right start winning port 26 as in the case of the variable start winning device 28 (left start winning port 28a) described above. In some cases, the right starting winning opening 26 may not be won by being hit by a nail above 26. There is also a game ball 300 that wins the right start winning opening 26 without going through the sorting device 200 depending on the state of the nail in the game area 8a.

  In the present embodiment, since such a distribution device 200 is adopted, a winning occurs at the right start winning opening 26 (occurrence of the first event) and a variable start winning apparatus 28 (the left starting winning opening 28a). The occurrence of winning (occurrence of the second event) occurs alternately at a relatively high frequency. However, the winning at the right start winning opening 26 may continue, or the winning at the left start winning opening 28a may continue.

[Control configuration]
Next, a configuration related to control of the pachinko machine 1 will be described. FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing various electronic devices equipped in the pachinko machine 1. The pachinko machine 1 includes a main control device 70 (main control computer) that serves as the center of the control operation. The main control device 70 mainly has a function of controlling the progress of the game in the pachinko machine 1. Yes. The main controller 70 is built in the main control board unit 170 described above.

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

  The start gate 20 described above is integrally provided with a gate switch 78 for detecting the passage of a game ball. The game board 8 is provided with a right start winning port switch 80, a left start winning port switch 82 and a count switch 84 corresponding to the right start winning port 26, the variable start winning device 28 and the variable winning device 30, respectively. . Each start winning port switch 80, 82 is for detecting a winning of a game ball to the right start winning port 26 and the variable start winning device 28 (left start winning port 28a). Further, the count switch 84 is for detecting the winning of a game ball to the variable winning device 30 (large winning opening) and counting the number thereof as described above. Similarly, the game board 8 is equipped with a winning opening switch 86 for detecting the winning of a game ball to the normal winning openings 22 and 24. Here, a configuration using a common winning opening switch 86 for all the normal winning openings 22 and 24 is given as an example, but for example, separate winning opening switches 86 are installed on the left and right sides of the board, and the left winning opening switch is provided. In 86, a winning of a game ball for the normal winning ports 22, 24 located on the left side of the board surface is detected, and in the right winning port switch 86, a winning of a game ball in the normal winning port 24 located on the right side of the board surface is detected. Also good.

  In any case, the winning detection signals of these switches 78 to 86 are input to the main control CPU 72 via an input / output driver (not shown). Due to the configuration of the game board 8, in this embodiment, the winning detection signals from the gate switch 78, the count switch 84, and the winning opening switch 86 are transmitted via the panel relay terminal plate 87, and are sent to the panel relay terminal plate 87. , Wiring patterns and connection terminals for relaying the respective winning detection signals are provided.

  The above-mentioned normal symbol display device 33, normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a, first special symbol display device 34, second special symbol display device 35, first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a, second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a and game The state display device 38 is controlled in display operation based on a control signal from the main control CPU 72. The main control CPU 72 outputs control signals for the display devices 33, 34, 35, 38 and the lamps 33a, 34a, 35a according to the progress of the game, and controls the lighting state of each LED. The display devices 33, 34, 35, and 38 and the lamps 33a, 34a, and 35a are installed on the game board 8 in a state of being mounted on one integrated display board 89 as described above. A control signal is transmitted from the main control CPU 72 to the substrate 89 via the panel relay terminal board 87.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  Further, the pachinko machine 1 includes an effect control device 124 (effect control computer) as a control configuration. The effect control device 124 controls the effect accompanying the progress of the game in the pachinko machine 1. The effect control device 124 is also equipped with a circuit board (composite sub-control board) on which an effect control CPU 126 that is a central processing unit is mounted. The effect control CPU 126 includes a CPU core (not shown) and a semiconductor memory such as a ROM 128 and a RAM 130 as a main memory. The production control device 124 is provided at a position covered by the back cover unit 178 on the back side of the pachinko machine 1.

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

  The effect control device 124 and the main control device 70 are connected to each other via, for example, a communication harness (not shown). However, the communication between these is performed only in one direction from the main control device 70 to the effect control device 124, and communication in the reverse direction is not performed. Note that the communication harness may adopt a parallel format according to the bus width of various commands transmitted from the main control device 70 to the effect control device 124, or each driver IC (I / O). A serial format may be adopted according to the hardware configuration.

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

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

  In the present embodiment, a glass frame decoration board 136 is installed on the inner surface of the glass frame unit 4, and drive signals from the lamp drive circuit 132 and the acoustic drive circuit 134 pass through the glass frame decoration board 136 and various lamps 46. To 52 and speakers 54, 55, and 56. Further, the effect switching button 45 is connected to the glass frame decorating board 136, and when the player operates the effect switching button 45, the contact signal is input to the effect control device 124 through the glass frame decorating board 136. Is done. In addition, although the example which connected the production | presentation switch button 45 to the glass-frame decoration board 136 is given here, when installing said saucer illumination board, the production switch button 45 is connected to the saucer illumination board. Also good. In addition, the panel board 138 is installed in the game board 8, and a driving signal from the lamp driving circuit 132 is applied to the panel lamp 53 via the panel board 138.

  As described above, the logo display body lamp 190, the memory display body lamp 192, the logo display body motor 194, and the memory display body motor 196 are attached to the memory number effect device unit 41. These lamps 190 and 192 and motors 194 and 196 are also installed on the back side of the game board 8, and the logo display body 41a and the memory display body 41b emit light and operate at the respective installation positions. The logo display lamp 190, the memory display lamp 192, the logo display motor 194, and the memory display motor 196 are supplied with lighting control signals and drive control signals through the lamp driving circuit 132, respectively. .

  The liquid crystal display 42 is installed on the back side of the game board 8 and the display screen through the substantially rectangular opening formed in the game board 8 is visible. Further, an inverter board 158 is installed on the back side of the game board 8, and the inverter board 158 generates an AC power source that is applied to a backlight (for example, a cathode tube) of the liquid crystal display 42. Furthermore, an effect display control device 144 is installed on the back side of the game board 8, and the display operation by the liquid crystal display 42 is controlled by the effect display control device 144. The effect display control device 144 is equipped with a display control CPU 146 that is a general-purpose central processing unit and a circuit board (effect display control board) on which a VDP 152 that is a display processor is mounted. Among these, the display control CPU 146 is configured as an LSI in which semiconductor memories such as a ROM 148 and a RAM 150 are integrated together with a CPU core (not shown). The VDP 152 is configured as an LSI in which a semiconductor core such as an image ROM 154 and a VRAM 156 is integrated with a processor core (not shown). The VRAM 156 can use a part of the storage area as a frame buffer.

  The ROM 128 of the effect control CPU 126 stores a basic program related to effect control, and the effect control CPU 126 executes effect control according to this program. The production control includes production control using various lamps 46 to 53 and speakers 54, 55, and 56 as described above, and production control by image display using the liquid crystal display 42. . The effect control CPU 126 transmits basic information (for example, effect number) related to the effect to the display control CPU 146, and the display control CPU 146 that receives the information transmits a specific effect image based on the basic information. Control the display.

  The display control CPU 146 outputs a more detailed control signal to the VDP 152. Receiving this, the VDP 152 accesses the image ROM 154 based on the control signal, reads necessary image data therefrom, and transfers it to the VRAM 156. Further, the VDP 152 expands the image data in the frame buffer for each frame (still image per unit time) on the VRAM 156, and individually handles each pixel (full color pixel) of the liquid crystal display 42 based on the buffered image data. To drive.

  In addition, a power supply control unit 162 (power supply control means) is provided on the back side of the plastic frame assembly 7. The power supply control unit 162 has a built-in switching power supply circuit. When external power (for example, AC 24V) is taken from the island facility through the power cord 164, necessary power (for example, DC + 34V, + 12V) can be generated therefrom. The electric power generated by the power supply control unit 162 is distributed to the main control device 70, the payout control device 92, the effect control device 124, and the inverter board 158. Furthermore, power is supplied to the launch control board 108 via the payout control device 92, and power is supplied to the CR unit via the game ball rental device connection terminal board 120. The low voltage power for logic (for example, DC + 5V) is generated by a power supply IC (3-terminal regulator or the like) built in each device. Further, as described above, the power supply control unit 164 is grounded (grounded) to the island facility through the ground wire 166.

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

  The above is a configuration example relating to the control of the pachinko machine 1. Next, control processing executed by the main control CPU 72 of the main control device 70 will be described.

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

  8 and 9 are flowcharts showing an example of the procedure of the reset start process. Hereinafter, the process performed by the main control CPU 72 will be described step by step.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  Step S111: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes an effect control return process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 instructs the effect control device 124 to return a command (for example, a model designation command, a special symbol probability state designation command, a special figure destination determination effect command, an effect command when the working memory number is increased, and the action memory number. (Decrease effect command, count counter remaining command, special game state designation command, etc.). In response to this, the effect control device 124 performs the effect state (for example, the internal probability state, the effect symbol display mode, the operation memory count effect display mode, the sound output content, and the various lamps being executed at the time of the previous power shutdown. Light emission state, etc.) can be restored.

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

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

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

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

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

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

  When the above procedure is executed in the reset start process, the main control CPU 72 shifts to the main loop shown in FIG. 9 (connection symbol A → A).

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

  Step S120: The main control CPU 72 executes an initial value update random number update process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 increments random numbers for updating (changing) initial values of various software random numbers. In this embodiment, various random numbers (for example, hit determination random numbers corresponding to ordinary symbols, jackpot symbol random numbers, reach determination random numbers, variation pattern determination random numbers, etc.) other than jackpot determination random numbers (hardware random numbers) are generated on the program. ing. These software random numbers are updated by a loop counter within a predetermined range in another interrupt process (step S201 in FIG. 11). In this process, the initial value of the loop counter (all The random number of may not be the target). The initial value updating random number is used to randomly change the initial value, and in step S120, the initial value updating random number is updated. Note that the reason why step S120 is executed after the interruption is prohibited in step S118 is that the same process is executed in another interrupt management process (step S202 in FIG. 11), so there is a duplication (contention). ) To prevent the above). As described above, in this embodiment, the big hit determination random number is a hardware random number generated by the random number generator 75, and its update cycle is faster (eg, several μs) than the timer interrupt cycle (eg, several ms). Therefore, it is not necessary to update the initial value of the jackpot determination random number.

  Step S121, Step S122: The main control CPU 72 permits the interrupt and executes other random number update processing. The random numbers updated by this processing are random numbers (reach determination random numbers, variation pattern determination random numbers, etc.) that are not related to the determination of the winning type (winning type) among software random numbers. This process is performed for the remaining time when a timer interrupt occurs during execution of the main loop and the main control CPU 72 executes another interrupt management process (FIG. 11). The contents of the interrupt management process will be described later.

[Power failure check processing]
FIG. 10 is a flowchart specifically illustrating a procedure example of the power-off occurrence check process.
Step S130: First, the main control CPU 72 sets a condition for checking the occurrence of power interruption. This check condition can be set as an on-counter value for confirming that the main power-off detection signal is continuously output, for example.

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

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

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

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

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

  Through the above processing, all the information stored in the work area of the RAM 76 to be backed up (sum added) is retained in the RAM 76 even after the main power is turned off. The stored memory is restored as backup information when the power is turned off after confirming that the checksum is normal in the previous reset start process (FIG. 8).

[Interrupt management processing (timer interrupt processing)]
Next, interrupt management processing (timer interrupt processing) will be described. FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary procedure of interrupt management processing. The main control CPU 72 executes an interrupt management process every predetermined time (for example, several ms) based on the interrupt request signal from the counter / timer circuit. Each procedure will be described below.

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

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

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

  Step S203: The main control CPU 72 executes input processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 inputs various switch signals from an input / output (I / O) port 79. Specifically, an input state (ON / OFF) of a passage detection signal from the gate switch 78 and a winning detection signal from the right starting winning port switch 80, left starting winning port switch 82, count switch 84, and winning port switch 86. Lead.

  Step S204: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes switch input event processing. In this process, among the switch signals input in the previous input process, the determination of an event occurring during the game is made based on the winning detection signals from the gate switch 78, the right start winning port switch 80, and the left starting winning port switch 82. Depending on the event that occurred, further processing is executed. The specific contents of the switch input event process will be described later with reference to another flowchart.

  In this embodiment, when a winning detection signal (ON) is input from the right start winning port switch 80 or the left starting winning port switch 82, the main control CPU 72 performs internal lottery corresponding to the first special symbol or the second special symbol, respectively. It is determined that an event that triggers the event (lottery opportunity) has occurred. When the passage detection signal (ON) is input from the gate switch 78, the main control CPU 72 determines that an event serving as a lottery trigger corresponding to the normal symbol has occurred. If it is determined that any event has occurred, the main control CPU 72 executes a process corresponding to each event. The processing executed when a winning detection signal is input from the right start winning port switch 80 or the left starting winning port switch 82 will be described later with reference to another flowchart.

  Step S205, Step S206: The main control CPU 72 executes a special symbol game process and a normal symbol game process during the interrupt management process. These processes are for specifically proceeding with the game in the pachinko machine 1. Of these, in the special symbol game process (step S205), the main control CPU 72 controls the execution of the internal lottery corresponding to the first special symbol or the second special symbol described above, or the first special symbol display device 34 and the second special symbol display device 34. (2) The variable display and stop display by the special symbol display device 35 are controlled, and the operation of the variable winning device 30 is controlled according to the display result. Details of the special symbol game process will be described later with reference to another flowchart.

  In the normal symbol game process (step S206), the main control CPU 72 controls the variable display and stop display by the normal symbol display device 33 described above, and controls the operation of the variable start winning device 28 according to the display result. To do. For example, the main control CPU 72 stores a random number (ordinary random number per symbol) acquired in response to the passage of the start gate 20 in the previous switch input event processing (step S204). The random number value is read out from the memory, and it is determined whether or not it falls within a predetermined hit range (operation lottery execution means). When the random number value falls within the hit range, the normal symbol display device 33 displays the normal symbol in a variable manner, and after stopping the normal symbol in a predetermined hit state, the main control CPU 72 switches the normal electric accessory solenoid 88 on. Excitingly activates the variable start winning device 28 (movable piece actuating means). On the other hand, if the random number value is out of the hit range, the main control CPU 72 performs a normal symbol stop display in a manner of deviation after the variable display.

  Step S207: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes prize ball payout processing. In this process, based on the winning detection signals input from the various switches 80, 82, 84, 86 in the previous input process (step S203), a prize ball instruction command for instructing the payout control device 92 the number of prize balls is issued. Output.

  Step S208: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes external information processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sends the above-mentioned external information signals (for example, prize ball information, door opening information, symbol determination number information, jackpot information, start port information, etc.) to the hall computer of the game hall through the external terminal board 160. Store in port output request buffer.

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

  Step S209: The main control CPU 72 executes test signal processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 generates various test signals representing its internal state (for example, normal symbol game management state, special symbol game management state, jackpot, probability variation function in operation, time reduction function in operation). These are stored in the port output request buffer. With this test signal, for example, the internal state of the main control CPU 72 can be tested outside the main controller 70.

  Step S210: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes display output management processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 performs the normal symbol display device 33, the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a, the first special symbol display device 34, the second special symbol display device 35, the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a, and the second special symbol. The lighting state of the operation memory lamp 35a, the game state display device 38, etc. is controlled. Specifically, the drive signal stored in the port output request buffer is output to the port in the previous special symbol game process (step S205) or the normal symbol game process (step S206). The drive signal is stored in the port output request buffer as byte data to be applied to each LED. As a result, each LED is driven in a predetermined display mode (a mode of performing symbol variation display, stop display, working memory number display, game state display, etc.).

  Step S211: The main control CPU 72 executes output management processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 outputs the external information signal (byte data) stored in the port output request buffer in the previous external information processing (step S208). Further, the main control CPU 72 outputs the drive signals, test signals, and the like of the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 88 and the special prize opening solenoid 90 stored in the port output request buffer together.

  Step S212: The main control CPU 72 executes an effect control output process. In this processing, it is confirmed whether or not there is a command (command necessary for presentation control) that the main control CPU 72 should transmit to the presentation control device 124 in the command buffer. Output port.

  Step S213: The main control CPU 72 clears the port output request buffer stored by the current CTC interrupt.

  In the present embodiment, an example is given in which the processing (game control program module) of steps S205 to S212 is executed as a timer interrupt processing. However, these processings are executed by being incorporated in the main loop of the CPU. There is also a programming example.

  Step S214: When the above processing is completed, the main control CPU 72 stores a value (01H) for designating the end of interrupt in the interrupt program counter, and ends the CTC interrupt.

  Step S215, Step S216: Then, the main control CPU 72 restores the saved values of the registers (A to L) and permits the next CTC interrupt. Thereafter, the main control CPU 72 returns to the main loop (program address indicated by the stack pointer).

[Switch input event processing]
FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the switch input event process (step S204 in FIG. 11). Each procedure will be described below.

  Step S10: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not a winning detection signal is input (a first event occurs) from the right start winning port switch 80 corresponding to the first special symbol. When the input of the winning detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S12 and executes the first special symbol memory update process. Specific processing contents will be further described later using another flowchart. On the other hand, when no winning detection signal is input (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S14.

  Step S14: Next, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not a winning detection signal is input (second event occurs) from the left start winning port switch 82 corresponding to the second special symbol. When the input of the winning detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S16 and executes the second special symbol memory update process. Here again, the details of the specific processing will be further described later using another flowchart. On the other hand, if there is no input of a winning detection signal (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S18.

  Step S18: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not a winning detection signal is input from the count switch 84 corresponding to the big winning opening. When the input of the winning detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S20 and executes a large winning mouth count process. In the big winning opening counting process, the main control CPU 72 counts the number of winning balls to the variable winning device 30 every round during the big hit game. On the other hand, if no winning detection signal is input (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S22.

  Step S22: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not a passage detection signal is input from the gate switch 78 corresponding to the normal symbol. When the input of the passage detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S24 and executes the normal symbol memory update process. In the normal symbol memory update process, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the current number of normal symbol working memories is less than the upper limit number (for example, 4), and if it does not reach the upper limit number, obtains a random number per normal symbol To do. Further, the main control CPU 72 increments the normal symbol operating memory number by one. Then, the main control CPU 72 stores the acquired random value per normal symbol in the random number storage area of the RAM 76. On the other hand, when no winning detection signal is input (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the interrupt management process (FIG. 11).

[First special symbol memory update process]
FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the first special symbol memory update process (step S12 in FIG. 12). Hereinafter, the procedure of the first special symbol memory update process will be described in order.

  Step S30: First, the main control CPU 72 refers to the value of the first special symbol working memory number counter to check whether or not the working memory number is less than the maximum value (for example, 4). The working memory number counter represents the number (the number of sets) of big hit determination random numbers and big hit symbol random numbers stored in the random number storage area of the RAM 76. That is, the random number storage area of the RAM 76 is divided into four sections (for example, 2 bytes each) for each symbol (first special symbol, second special symbol), and each section contains a big hit decision random number and a big hit symbol random number. Each can be stored as a set. At this time, if the value of the working memory number counter corresponding to the first special symbol has reached the maximum value (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event processing (FIG. 12). On the other hand, if the value of the working memory number counter is less than the maximum value (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S31.

  Step S31: The main control CPU 72 adds one first special symbol working memory number. The first special symbol operation memory number counter is stored, for example, in the operation memory number area of the RAM 76, and the main control CPU 72 increments (+1) the value. Based on the counter value added here, the lighting state of the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a is controlled by the display output management process (step S210 in FIG. 11).

  Step S32: The main control CPU 72 acquires a jackpot determination random number value corresponding to the first special symbol from the random number generator 75 through the sampling circuit 77 (acquisition of first lottery element, lottery element acquisition means). The random value is acquired by specifying the pin address of the random number generator 75. In the case where the main control CPU 72 performs 8-bit processing, the address designation is performed twice for each upper byte and lower byte. When the main control CPU 72 reads the jackpot determination random number value from the designated address, the main control CPU 72 saves it at the transfer destination address as a jackpot determination random number corresponding to the first special symbol.

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

  Step S34: The main control CPU 72 sequentially acquires a reach determination random number and a variation pattern determination random number from the random number counter area for variation in the RAM 76 as random number values related to the variation condition of the first special symbol (lottery element storage means, variation Get pattern determinants). Similarly, these random number values are acquired by designating the address of the random number counter area for variation. When the main control CPU 72 acquires the reach determination random number and the variation pattern determination random number from the designated address, it saves them in the transfer destination address.

  Step S35: The main control CPU 72 transfers the saved jackpot determination random number, jackpot symbol random number, reach determination random number, and variation pattern determination random number together to a random number storage area used in common in the first special symbol and the second special symbol, These random numbers are stored as a set in an empty section in the area (lottery element storage means). The order (for example, first to eighth) is set in the plurality of sections. If all the first to eighth sections are empty at this stage, the random numbers are stored in order from the first section. Alternatively, if the first section is already filled and the other second to eighth sections are empty, the random numbers are stored in order from the second section. However, regarding the first special symbol, only four sections can be used (the same applies to the second special symbol). Therefore, even if there is an empty section, if four sections are already used for the first special symbol, no more random numbers of the first special symbol are stored. Note that the random number storage area is read out in a FIFO (First In First Out) format.

  Step S36: Next, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the current game management state (internal state) is a big hit. If it is not during the big hit (No), the main control CPU 72 executes the following steps S37 and S38. If it is a big hit (Yes), the main control CPU 72 skips steps S37 and S38 and proceeds to step S38a. The reason why this determination is made in the present embodiment is that the pre-reading effect is not performed during the big hit.

  Step S37: When the current game management state (internal state) is other than the big hit (step S36: No), the main control CPU 72 executes an effect determination process at the time of acquisition for the first special symbol. This process determines the result of the internal lottery in advance (before the start of fluctuation) based on the jackpot determination random number and the jackpot symbol random number of the first special symbol respectively acquired in the previous steps S32 to S34, and thereby the production contents This is for determination (so-called “look ahead”). The specific processing contents will be described later with reference to another flowchart.

  Step S38: After returning from the at-acquisition effect determination process, the main control CPU 72 next sets the upper bytes (for example, “B8H”) of the special figure destination determination effect command for the first special symbol. This high-order byte data describes that the command type is “for special figure destination determination effect relating to the first special symbol”. Since the lower byte of the special figure destination determination effect command is set in the previous acquisition effect determination process (step S37), the upper byte is combined with the lower byte, for example. Will be generated.

  Step S38a: Next, the main control CPU 72 sets an effect command at the time of increasing the number of working memories regarding the first special symbol. Specifically, for the preceding value (for example, “BBH”) of the upper byte representing the type of command, a 1-word length in which the increased number of working memories (for example, “01H” to “04H”) is added to the lower byte. A production command is generated. At this time, for the lower byte, the second place is set to “0” by default to indicate that the value is “result (change information) due to increase in number of working memories”. That is, if the lower byte is “01H”, it indicates that the current working memory number has become “01H” as a result of increasing by one from the previous working memory number “00H”. Similarly, if the lower byte is “02H” to “04H”, it is increased by one from the previous working memory numbers “01H” to “03H”, so that the current working memory number is “02H” to “02H”. 04H ". The preceding value “BBH” is a value indicating that the current effect command is the working memory number command for the first special symbol.

  Step S39: The main control CPU 72 executes an effect command output setting process for the first special symbol. This process is for transmitting the special figure destination determination effect command generated in the previous step S38, the effect command for increasing the number of working memories generated in step S38a, and the start opening winning tone control command to the effect control device 124. (Memory number notification means).

  When the above procedure is completed or the first special symbol operation memory number has reached 4 (step S30: No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event process (FIG. 12).

[Second special symbol memory update process]
Next, FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the second special symbol memory update process (step S16 in FIG. 12). Hereinafter, the procedure of the second special symbol memory update process will be described in order.

  Step S40: The main control CPU 72 refers to the value of the second special symbol working memory number counter to check whether or not the working memory number is less than the maximum value. Similarly to the above, the second special symbol actuated memory number counter represents the number (number of sets) of jackpot determination random numbers and jackpot symbol random numbers stored in the random number storage area of the RAM 76. At this time, if the value of the second special symbol operation memory number counter reaches the maximum value (for example, 4) (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event process (FIG. 12). On the other hand, if the value of the second special symbol operation memory number counter is still less than the maximum value (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S41 and thereafter.

  Step S41: The main control CPU 72 increments the second special symbol working memory number by one (increments the value of the second special symbol working memory number counter). Similarly to the previous step S31 (FIG. 13), the lighting state of the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a is controlled by the display output management process (step S210 in FIG. 11) based on the counter value added here. Will be.

  Step S42: The main control CPU 72 acquires a jackpot determination random number value corresponding to the second special symbol from the random number generator 75 through the sampling circuit 77 (acquisition of second lottery element, lottery element acquisition means). The method for acquiring the random number value is the same as step S32 (FIG. 13) described above.

  Step S43: Next, the main control CPU 72 acquires a jackpot symbol random number value corresponding to the second special symbol from the jackpot symbol random number counter area of the RAM 76. The method for acquiring the random value is the same as that in step S33 (FIG. 13) described above.

  Step S44: The main control CPU 72 sequentially acquires a reach determination random number and a variation pattern determination random number regarding the variation condition of the second special symbol from the variation random number counter area of the RAM 76 (the lottery element storage means, the variation pattern determination element Acquisition). Acquisition of these random values is also performed in the same manner as step S34 (FIG. 13) described above.

  Step S45: The main control CPU 72 transfers the saved jackpot determination random number, jackpot symbol random number, reach determination random number and variation pattern determination random number together to the random number storage area used in common in the first special symbol and the second special symbol, These random numbers are stored as a set in an empty section in the area (lottery element storage means). The storage method is the same as step S35 (FIG. 13) described above.

  Step S45a: Next, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the current game management state (internal state) is a big hit. If it is not a big hit (No), the main control CPU 72 executes the following steps S46 and S47. Conversely, if it is a big hit (Yes), the main control CPU 72 skips steps S46 and S47 and proceeds to step S48. The reason why this determination is made in the present embodiment is that the pre-reading effect is not performed during the big hit.

  Step S46: When it is other than big hit (step S45a: No), next, the main control CPU 72 executes an effect determination process at the time of acquisition for the second special symbol. This process determines the result of the internal lottery in advance (before the start of the change) based on the big hit determination random number and the big hit symbol random number of the second special symbol obtained in the previous steps S42 to S44, respectively, It is for judging. Here, in the previous step S45a, it is determined whether or not the big hit is made, except for the big hit, the result of the internal lottery can be determined in advance for the second special symbol, and the result can be used for the prefetching effect. Because. The specific processing contents will be described later.

  Step S47: After returning from the effect determination process at the time of acquisition, the main control CPU 72 sets the upper byte (for example, “B9H”) of the special figure destination determination effect command. This high-order byte data describes that the command type is “for special figure destination determination effect relating to the second special symbol”. Similarly, since the lower byte of the special figure destination determination effect command is set in the previous effect determination processing at the time of acquisition (step S46), for example, one word is synthesized by combining the upper byte with the lower byte. A long command will be generated.

  Step S48: Next, the main control CPU 72 sets an effect command for increasing the number of working memories with respect to the second special symbol. Here, a one-word-length production command in which the increased number of working memories (for example, “01H” to “04H”) is added to the lower byte with respect to the preceding value (for example, “BCH”) representing the command type. Is generated. Similarly, for the second special symbol, the second place of the lower byte is set to “0” by default to indicate that the value is “a result of an increase in the number of working memories (change information)”. it can. The preceding value “BCH” is a value indicating that the current effect command is an operating memory number command for the second special symbol.

  Step S49: The main control CPU 72 executes an effect command output setting process for the second special symbol. As a result, preparation for transmitting a special figure destination determination effect command, an effect command for increasing the number of operating memories, a start opening winning sound control command, and the like regarding the second special symbol to the effect control device 24 is performed (memory number notifying means). . When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event process (FIG. 12).

[Acquisition process during acquisition]
FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure of an acquisition effect determination process. The main control CPU 72 executes this acquisition effect determination process in the first special symbol memory update process and the second special symbol memory update process (step S37 in FIG. 13 and step S46 in FIG. 14) (predetermined determination). means). As described above, this processing is executed for each of the first special symbol (when winning the right start winning opening 26) and the second special symbol (when winning the variable start winning device 28). Therefore, the following description may correspond to a process related to the first special symbol and a process related to the second special symbol. Hereinafter, the contents of the processing will be described along each procedure.

  Step S50: The main control CPU 72 sets the lower byte (for example, “00H”) of the special figure destination determination effect command (point determination information). The byte data set here represents the standard value of the command (at the time of loss).

  Step S52: Next, the main control CPU 72 loads the jackpot determination random number as the first determination random value. The random numbers to be loaded here are those stored in the RAM 76 in the first special symbol memory update process (step S35 in FIG. 13) or the second special symbol memory update process (step S45 in FIG. 14). .

  Step S54: The main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the loaded random number is outside the range of the winning value (here, the lower limit value or less). Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sets a comparison value (lower limit value) in the A register, and subtracts the loaded random number value from this comparison value. The comparison value (lower limit value) is defined in advance according to the winning probability of the internal lottery in the pachinko machine 1. Next, the main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the calculation result is 0 or a positive value from the value of the flag register, for example. As a result, if the loaded random number is outside the range of the winning value (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S80.

  Step S80: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a variation pattern information preliminary determination process at the time of deviation (variation pattern preliminary determination means, destination determination means). In this process, the main control CPU 72 generates the variation pattern destination determination command described above for the variation time at the time of disconnection. The change pattern destination determination command generated here includes a change time (or a change time set according to various conditions such as the operation state of the change time shortening function and the total number of stored first special symbols and second special symbols) (or (Variation pattern number) and determination information on the presence or absence of reach variation are reflected. For example, if the current state is when the “time reduction function” is activated, the main control CPU 72 corresponds to the “out-of-reach fluctuation fluctuation (non-shortening fluctuation time)” based on the loaded reach determination random number. Judge whether there is. As a result, when the fluctuation time corresponds to “outlier reach fluctuation (non-shortening fluctuation time)”, the main control CPU 72 generates a fluctuation pattern destination determination command corresponding to “short-time / non-shortening fluctuation time”. In the case of reach variation, it is also possible to determine a “reach group (type of reach)” from the reach mode random number and generate a variation pattern destination determination command from the result. On the other hand, if the fluctuation time does not correspond to “outlier reach fluctuation (non-shortening fluctuation time)”, the main control CPU 72 generates a fluctuation pattern destination determination command corresponding to, for example, “short and medium short fluctuation time depending on the total number of storages”. To do. Alternatively, if the current state is when the “time reduction function” is not in operation (non-time reduction state), the main control CPU 72 corresponds to the “normal deviation reach fluctuation” based on the loaded reach determination random number. It is judged whether it is a thing. As a result, when the fluctuation time corresponds to “normally deviation reach fluctuation”, the main control CPU 72 generates a fluctuation pattern destination determination command corresponding to “normally deviation reach fluctuation time”. On the other hand, when the fluctuation time does not correspond to “normal deviation reach fluctuation”, the main control CPU 72 generates a fluctuation pattern destination determination command corresponding to “normal deviation fluctuation time for each total storage number”. Further, the variation pattern destination determination command generated here is set in the transmission buffer in the effect command output setting process (steps S39 and S49) as described above.

  When the above procedure is executed, the main control CPU 72 ends the acquisition-time effect determination process, and returns to the caller's first special symbol memory update process (FIG. 13) or the second special symbol memory update process (FIG. 14). On the other hand, if it is determined in the previous step S54 that the loaded random number is not outside the range of the winning value but within the range (step S54: No), the main control CPU 72 then proceeds to step S56.

  Step S56: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the probability state schedule flag based on the previous determination result is set. The probability state schedule flag based on the previous determination result is set when there is a winning value among the jackpot determination random numbers stored so far, although the fluctuation has not yet started. Specifically, if there is a winning value in the jackpot decision random number stored so far, if the jackpot symbol random number paired with this corresponds to “probability variation”, for example, the probability state schedule flag “A0H” is set. This value represents a flag value for setting as a schedule that a high probability state is to be set in advance determination (prefetching determination) of the jackpot determined random number acquired after the jackpot determined random number. On the other hand, if there is a winning value in the jackpot decision random number stored so far, and the jackpot symbol random number paired with this corresponds to "non-probable (normal) symbol", the probability state For example, “01H” is set in the schedule flag. This value represents a flag value for setting as a schedule that a normal (low) probability state is set in advance determination (prefetching determination) of the big hit determination random number acquired after this big hit determination random number. If the winning value does not exist in the big hit determination random numbers stored so far, the flag value is reset (00H). The value of the probability state schedule flag is stored in the flag area of the RAM 76, for example. Here, an example is given in which the advance hit determination is strictly performed using the “probability state schedule flag”. However, when the advance hit determination is simply performed based on the current probability state, step S56 and the subsequent steps are performed. Step S58, step S60, step S62, step S76, etc. may be omitted.

  If the probability state schedule flag has not yet been set (step S56: No), the main control CPU 72 executes step S66.

  Step S66: In this case, the main control CPU 72 sets the comparison value for the next low probability (normal time) in the A register. The comparative value for low probability is also defined in advance according to the winning probability at the low probability in the pachinko machine 1.

  Step S68: Next, the main control CPU 72 loads the “current probability state flag”. This probability state flag indicates whether or not the current internal state has a high probability (probably changing), and is stored in the flag area of the RAM 76. If the current probability state is a high probability (probably changing), the value “01H” is set as the state flag, and if the current probability state is low (normally), the value of the state flag is reset (“00H”). ").

  Step S70: Then, the main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the loaded current special symbol probability state flag does not represent a high probability (≠ 01H), and if the result indicates a high probability (No). Next, step S64 is executed.

  Step S64: The main control CPU 72 sets a comparative value for high probability. As a result, the low-probability comparison value set in the previous step S66 is rewritten. The high probability comparison value is defined in advance according to the winning probability at the high probability in the pachinko machine 1.

  As described above, when the probability state schedule flag based on the previous determination result is not yet set and the current internal state is high probability, the comparison value is rewritten for high probability and the next step S72 is performed. Will be executed. On the other hand, when it is confirmed in the previous step S70 that the current probability state flag does not represent a high probability (Yes), the main control CPU 72 skips step S64 and executes the next step S72.

  Step S72: The main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the random number loaded in the previous step S52 is outside the range of the winning value. That is, the main control CPU 72 subtracts the jackpot determination random number value from the comparison value set for each state. Similarly, the main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the calculation result is a negative value (<0) from the value of the flag register, and if the result is that the loaded random number is outside the range of the winning value (Yes). The main control CPU 72 executes the above-described deviation pattern information prior determination process (step S80). On the other hand, if the loaded random number is not outside the range of the winning value but is within the range (No), the main control CPU 72 then proceeds to step S74.

  Step S74: The main control CPU 72 executes a jackpot symbol type determination process. This process is for determining the big hit type (winning type) at that time based on the big hit symbol random number paired with the big hit decision random number. For example, the main control CPU 72 loads the jackpot symbol random number for each symbol stored in the first special symbol memory update process (step S35 in FIG. 13) or the second special symbol memory update process (step S45 in FIG. 14). Then, the calculation using the comparison value is executed in the same manner as in step S54 described above, and it is determined from the result whether the jackpot type corresponds to “non-probable variation (normal) symbol” or “probability variation symbol”. The main control CPU 72 stores the determination result at this time as a special symbol destination determination value, and proceeds to the next step S76.

  Step S76: The main control CPU 72 sets the value of the probability state schedule flag based on the previous determination result. Specifically, when the special symbol destination determination value stored in the previous step S74 represents “non-probable change (normal) symbol”, the main control CPU 72 sets the value “01H” in the probability state schedule flag. On the other hand, when the special symbol destination determination value represents “probability variation symbol”, the main control CPU 72 sets the value “A0H” in the probability state schedule flag. As a result, in the subsequent processing, it is determined that “flag set has been completed” in step S56.

  Step S78: The main control CPU 72 sets the special symbol destination determination value stored in the previous step S74 as the lower byte of the special symbol destination determination effect command. As the special symbol destination determination value, for example, “01H” is set when it corresponds to “non-probable (normal) symbol”, and “A0H” is set when it corresponds to “probable variation”. In any case, by setting the lower byte data here, the standard lower byte data “00H” set in the previous step S50 is rewritten.

  Step S79: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes big hit hour fluctuation pattern information preliminary determination processing (fluctuation pattern preliminary determination means, destination determination means). In this process, the main control CPU 72 generates the above-described variation pattern destination determination command for the variation time at the big hit. In the variation pattern destination determination command generated here, for example, prior determination information related to the reach variation time (or variation pattern number) at the time of big hit is reflected. Further, the variation pattern destination determination command generated here is set in the transmission buffer in the effect command output setting process (steps S39 and S49) as described above.

  The above is the procedure before the probability state schedule flag based on the previous determination result is set (before the internal first hit). On the other hand, when the probability state schedule flag is set through the previous step S76, the following procedure is executed. However, when the previous hit determination is performed only with the current probability state as described above, it is not necessary to execute the following step S56, step S58, step S60, step S62, and step S76.

  Step S56: When the main control CPU 72 confirms that a value has already been set in the probability state schedule flag (Yes), it next executes step S58.

  Step S58: The main control CPU 72 first sets a low probability (normal time) comparison value in the A register.

  Step S60: Next, the main control CPU 72 loads a “probability state schedule flag”. The probability state schedule flag is for setting a probability state in a subsequent determination based on the immediately preceding determination result as described above, and is stored in the flag area of the RAM 76. . If the probability state based on the immediately preceding destination determination result is scheduled to shift to a high probability (probability change), “A0H” is set as the value of the probability state schedule flag as described above. If the probability state based on is scheduled to return to a low probability (normal), “01H” is set as the value of the probability state schedule flag.

  Step S62: Then, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the loaded probability state schedule flag does not represent a high-probability schedule (≠ 01H), and if the result indicates a high-probability schedule (No Then, step S64 is executed to set a comparative value for high probability.

  As described above, when the probability state schedule flag based on the previous determination result is already set and the value is a high probability, the next step S72 and subsequent steps after rewriting the comparison value for the high probability. Will be executed. On the other hand, when it is confirmed in the previous step S62 that the probability state schedule flag does not represent a schedule with a high probability but a schedule with a normal (low) probability (Yes), the main control CPU 72 performs a step. S64 is skipped and the subsequent step S72 and subsequent steps are executed. Thus, in the present embodiment, it is possible to make a prior jackpot determination in consideration of subsequent changes in internal state (normal probability state → high probability state, high probability state → normal probability state) based on the previous determination result. .

  When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the first special symbol memory update process (FIG. 13) or the second special symbol memory update process (FIG. 14).

[Special design game processing]
Next, the details of the special symbol game process executed in the interrupt management process (FIG. 11) will be described. FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing a configuration example of the special symbol game process. The special symbol game process includes an execution selection process (step S1000), a special symbol change pre-process (step S2000), a special symbol change process (step S3000), a special symbol stop display process (step S4000), and a variable winning device management process. This is a configuration including a subroutine (program module) group of (Step S5000). First, the basic flow of the special symbol game process will be described along each process.

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

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

  Step S2000: In the special symbol variation pre-processing, the main control CPU 72 performs an operation to prepare conditions for starting the variation display of the special symbol. The specific processing content will be described later using another flowchart.

  Step S3000: In the special symbol variation processing, the main control CPU 72 performs drive control of the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35 while counting the variation timer. Specifically, an ON or OFF drive signal (1 byte data) is output for each segment and dot (0th to 7th) of the 7-segment LED. The pattern of the drive signal changes with the passage of time, whereby a special symbol is displayed in a variable manner.

  Step S4000: In the special symbol stop display process, the main control CPU 72 controls the drive of the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35. Similarly, an ON or OFF drive signal is output for each segment and dot of the 7-segment LED. However, the pattern of the drive signal is constant, whereby a special symbol is stopped and displayed.

  Step S5000: The variable winning device management process is selected when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the winning mode (a mode other than non-winning) in the previous special symbol stop display process. For example, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the form of a big hit of 15 rounds, an opportunity to shift from the normal state until then to the big hit gaming state (a special gaming state advantageous to the player) occurs. During the big hit game, the jump destination is set in the variable winning device management process in the previous execution selection process (step S1000), and the special symbol variation display is not performed. In the variable winning device management process, the large winning opening solenoid 90 is excited for a predetermined time (for example, 29 seconds or until 9 winnings are counted) for a predetermined number of continuous operations (for example, 2 times, 15 times), As a result, the variable winning device 30 is opened and closed in a predetermined pattern (continuous operation of the special electric accessory). In the meantime, by allowing the variable winning device 30 to win the game balls intensively, the player is given an opportunity to collect a lot of prize balls (special game execution means). Note that the opening / closing operation of the variable winning device 30 at the time of the big win is referred to as “round”, and if the total number of continuous operations is 15 times, these may be collectively referred to as “15 rounds”. In the present embodiment, not only 15 round big hits but also multiple types of 2 round big hits are provided as the types of big hits. Also, for the 15 round big hit, there are a plurality of winning types (winning symbols) provided therein.

  Further, when the main control CPU 72 sets the large winning opening opening pattern (number of rounds, number of opening / closing operations per round, opening time, etc.) in the variable winning device management process, the main control CPU 72 performs the opening / closing operation of the variable winning device 30 for one round. Each time it is finished, the value of the round number counter is incremented by one. The value of the round number counter is stored in the count area of the RAM 76 with an initial value of 0, for example. Further, the main control CPU 72 generates a round number command representing the value of the round number counter. The round number command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process (step S212 in FIG. 11). When the value of the round number counter reaches the set number of continuous operations, the main control CPU 72 ends the big hit game (big player) only for that round.

  When the big hit game ends, the main control CPU 72 changes the state after the big hit game (high probability state, time reduction state) based on the game state flag (probability variation function operation flag, time reduction function operation flag). In the “high probability state”, the probability variation function is activated, and the winning probability in the internal lottery becomes, for example, about ten times higher than usual (specific game state transition means, high probability state transition means, high probability state setting means). In the “time reduction state”, the time reduction function is activated, and the special symbol fluctuation time is a normal length (for example, about 2 to 12 seconds depending on the total stored number; except for the case where the reach fluctuation is performed. ) Is shifted to a state set to a length (for example, about 1.5 seconds) in which the variation time is shortened compared to the non-time shortened state. In addition, while the time reduction function is activated, the special symbol variation time is shortened, and the normal symbol lottery has a high probability (for example, low probability of about 25/251 → about 249/251). The fluctuation time of the normal symbol is shortened (for example, about 10 seconds when not in operation → about 1 second) and the opening time of the variable start winning device 28 is extended (for example, about 0.3 seconds when inactive → 2. Since it is extended to about 5 seconds), and the number of times of opening increases (for example, it increases from 1 to 2 when it is not in operation), the game ball is fired for a long time (all memory of normal symbols is interrupted and variable start) The operation memory of the second special symbol is less likely to be interrupted (so-called electric chew support) as long as it is not interrupted for a period of time that the winning device 28 stops operating). Note that the “high probability state” and the “time reduction state” may be transferred to only one of them in terms of control, or may be transferred in accordance with both of them.

[Multiple winning types]
In the present embodiment, for the above-mentioned “15 round jackpot”, for example, (1) “15 round probability variable jackpot” and (2) “15 round normal (non-probability) jackpot” are provided as a plurality of winning types (this) There may be more). In addition to “15 round big hits”, in this embodiment, for example, (3) “2 rounds probable big hits” and (4) “2 rounds normal big hits” are provided as a plurality of winning types (special winning types) (this) There may be more).

  The winning type corresponds to the type of the first special symbol or the second special symbol that is stopped and displayed at the time of winning. For example, “15 round probability variation jackpot” corresponds to the jackpot of “15 round probability variation symbol”, and “15 round normal jackpot” corresponds to the jackpot of “15 round probability symbol”. Further, “2 round probability variation jackpot” corresponds to the jackpot of “2 round probability variation symbol”, and “2 round normal jackpot” corresponds to the jackpot of “2 round regular symbol bonus”. For this reason, in the following description, “winning type” is appropriately referred to as “winning symbol”.

[15 round normal design]
First, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the “15 round normal symbol” mode in the special symbol stop display processing described above, an opportunity to shift from the normal state until then to the big hit gaming state occurs (special game execution). means). In this case, the special winning opening is opened once each over a sufficiently long time (for example, a maximum opening time of 29.0 seconds) from the first round, and this continues until the 15th round. For this reason, the “15-round normal symbol” jackpot game gives the player 15 balls (prize balls) for the round. Note that when a predetermined number of times (for example, 9 times = 9 game balls) is generated within one round, the special winning opening is closed without waiting for the longest opening time to elapse. In this case, since the “probability changing function” is not activated, the privilege to shift to the “high probability state” is not given to the player. However, even if the “time reduction function” is inactive in the previous game, by operating the “time reduction function” after the end of the big hit game, there is a privilege to shift to the “variable time reduction state”. It is given to the player.

[15 round probability variation pattern]
Alternatively, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the “15-round probability variation symbol” mode in the previous special symbol stop display process, an opportunity to shift from the normal state until then to the big hit gaming state occurs (special game executing means) ). In this case, the special winning opening is opened once each over a sufficiently long time (for example, a maximum opening time of 29.0 seconds) from the first round, and this continues until the 15th round. Each of these “15 round probable symbols” jackpot games will also give the player 15 balls (prize balls) for 15 rounds. Further, when a predetermined number of times (for example, 9 times = 9 game balls) is generated within one round, the big winning opening is closed without waiting for the longest opening time to elapse. Then, for example, by operating the “probability changing function” after the big hit game is finished, a privilege to shift to the “high probability state” is given to the player as a result. Also, in this case, even if the “time reduction function” is inactive in the previous game, by operating the “time reduction function” after the big hit game is finished, the “variable time reduction state” is also achieved. A privilege to be transferred is given to the player.

[2-round probability variable design]
Alternatively, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the form of “2 round probability variation” in the previous special symbol stop display process, an opportunity to shift from the normal state until then to the short-term jackpot gaming state occurs (special Game execution means). However, since the 2-round jackpot game ends in an extremely short time compared to the 15-round jackpot game, there is almost no winning in the big winning opening. Therefore, the big hit game of “2 round probability variation design” is completed within a short period of time without giving a substantial play (prize ball) to the player. Instead, if the winning type corresponds to “2 round probability variation symbol”, for example, the “probability variation function” is activated after the jackpot game is ended, and as a result, the privilege of shifting to the “high probability state” Granted to a person. Such a “two-round probability variation pattern” gives the player the impression that a “high probability state” suddenly occurs without going through a clear big hit game. Here, an example is given in which the opening time is set to an extremely short time, but even in a 2-round big hit game, for example, multiple (for example, about 9) game balls are won in one round. It is good also as setting sufficient open time which becomes possible. In this case, the player can enjoy the privilege of shifting to the “high probability state” after giving a privilege of paying out a certain amount of prize balls.

  In any case, if the winning symbol falls under either of the above “15-round probability variation symbol” or “2-round probability variation symbol”, the player is given a privilege to shift the internal state to the “high probability state” after the big hit game ends. Is granted. In addition, if the internal lottery is won in the “high probability state” and the winning symbol at that time corresponds to either “15 round probability variation symbol” or “2 round probability variation symbol”, the “high probability state” will be maintained even after the jackpot game ends. Is continued (resumed). On the other hand, if the internal lottery is won in the “high probability state” and the above “15 round normal symbol” is met, the internal state returns to the normal probability state (low probability state) after the big hit game is over. Needless to say, if the internal lottery is won in the normal probability state and it falls under “15 round normal symbol”, the internal state is maintained in the normal probability state even after the big hit game ends.

[2 round normal design]
Alternatively, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the “two-round normal symbol” mode in the special symbol stop display process, an opportunity to shift from the normal state until then to the short-term big hit gaming state occurs (special). Game execution means). However, since the 2-round jackpot game ends in an extremely short time compared to the 15-round jackpot game, there is almost no winning in the big winning opening. Therefore, the “two-round normal symbol” jackpot game is completed within a short period of time without giving a substantial play (prize ball) to the player. In addition, when the winning type corresponds to “two round normal symbol”, neither the “probability changing function” nor the “time shortening function” is activated after the big hit game ends. As a result, if the state before the big hit is the “high probability state”, the state is shifted to the “low probability state”, and if the state before the big hit is the “low probability state”, the “low probability state” is maintained. Is done. Such a “two-round normal symbol” has the significance of terminating the “high probability state”. Here, an example is given in which the opening time is set to an extremely short time, but even in a 2-round big hit game, for example, multiple (for example, about 9) game balls are won in one round. It is good also as setting sufficient open time which becomes possible. In this case, even if the “high probability state” is completed, a certain amount of award by paying out a prize ball can be given to the player.

[Small hits]
In the present embodiment, small wins are provided as winning types other than non-winning. When winning a small winning game, a small winning game is performed separately from the big winning game, and the variable winning device 30 is opened and closed (special game executing means). That is, when the first special symbol is stopped and displayed in the small hit state in the special symbol stop display process, the small hit game (the variable winning device 30 is activated in the normal probability state or the high probability state). (Game) is executed (in this embodiment, no small hit is set for the second special symbol). In such a small winning game, the variable winning device 30 opens and closes a predetermined number of times (for example, twice), but hardly wins in the big winning opening as in the two-round big winning game. In addition, even if the small hit game ends, the “probability change function” does not operate, and the “time reduction function” does not operate, so it goes to the “high probability state” or “time reduction state”. The privilege to be transferred is not granted (it is not a prerequisite for that). Also, even if you win a small hit in the “high probability state”, the “high probability state” will not end after the game of that small hit, and even if you win a small hit in the “time reduction state” The “time reduction state” does not end after the end of the small hit game (except when the upper limit is reached).

[Special symbol change pre-treatment]
FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the special symbol variation pre-processing. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along each procedure.

  Step S2100: First, the main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the first special symbol working memory number or the second special symbol working memory number remains (greater than 0). This confirmation can be made with reference to the value of the working memory number counter stored in the RAM 76. When the number of working memories of both the first special symbol and the second special symbol is 0 (No), the main control CPU 72 executes a demonstration setting process in step S2500.

  Step S2500: In this process, the main control CPU 72 generates a demonstration effect command. The demonstration effect command is output to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process (step S212 in FIG. 11). When the demo setting process is executed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game process. When returning, it returns to the end address as described above (and so on).

  On the other hand, if the value of the working memory number counter of either the first special symbol or the second special symbol is greater than 0 (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S2200.

  Step S2200: The main control CPU 72 executes a special symbol storage area shift process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 reads the lottery random numbers (big hit decision random number, big hit symbol random number) stored in the random number storage area of the RAM 76 in the order of acquisition. At this time, if random numbers are stored in two or more sections, the main control CPU 72 reads and erases (consumes) the random numbers in order from the first section, and then moves (shifts) the remaining random numbers one by one to the previous section. ) The read random number is stored, for example, in another temporary storage area. Each random number stored in the temporary storage area is used for internal lottery in the next jackpot determination process. In the present embodiment, random numbers are read in the order stored (acquired) in the random number storage area of the RAM 76. Further, in this process, the main control CPU 72 subtracts one value of the working memory number counter (the one of the first special symbol or the second special symbol which has been subjected to the random number shift) stored in the RAM 76, and after the subtraction Is set to “Number of working memories at start of change”. Thereby, the display mode of the number stored by the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a or the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a changes (decreases by 1) in the display output management process (step S210 in FIG. 11). . When the procedure so far is finished, the main control CPU 72 then executes step S2300.

  Step S2300: The main control CPU 72 executes a big hit determination process (internal lottery). In this process, the main control CPU 72 first sets a range of the big hit value and determines whether or not the read random number value is included in this range (lottery execution means). The range of the jackpot value set at this time is different between the normal probability state and the high probability state (when the probability variation function is activated). In the high probability state, the range of the jackpot value is expanded to about 10 times that of the normal probability state. The If the random value read at this time is included in the range of the big hit value, the main control CPU 72 sets the big hit flag (01H), and then proceeds to step S2400.

  When the above big hit flag is not set, the main control CPU 72 sets the range of the small hit value next in the same big hit determination process, and determines whether or not the read random number value is included in this range (lottery execution). means). The “small hit” here is other than non-winning (out of), but is different from “big hit”. In other words, “big hit” generates an opportunity (game milestone) to shift to the above “high probability state” or “time reduction state”, but “small hit” does not generate such an opportunity. However, “small hit” is positioned as satisfying the condition for operating the variable winning device 30 as in the case of “big hit”. The range of the small hit value set at this time may be different between the normal probability state and the high probability state (when the probability variation function is activated), or may be the same. In any case, if the read random number value is included in the range of the small hit value, the main control CPU 72 sets the small hit flag, and then proceeds to step S2400. As described above, in the present embodiment, as the hit range corresponding to other than the non-winning, the range of the big hit value and the small hit value is defined in advance in the program. Each of them may be written in the ROM 74, read out, and the big hit determination may be performed while comparing with the random value.

  Step S2400: The main control CPU 72 determines whether or not a value (01H) is set for the big hit flag in the previous big hit determination process. If the value (01H) is not set in the jackpot flag (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S2402.

  Step S2402: The main control CPU 72 determines whether or not a value (01H) is set in the small hit flag in the previous big hit determination process. If the value (01H) is not set in the small hit flag (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S2404. The main control CPU 72 may determine the big hit (for example, 01H is set) or the small hit (for example, 0AH is set) according to the value of the common hit flag without separately preparing the big hit flag and the small hit flag.

  Step S2404: The main control CPU 72 executes an off-time stop symbol determination process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sets stop symbol number data at the time of disconnection by the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35. Further, the main control CPU 72 generates a stop symbol command and a lottery result command (at the time of loss) to be transmitted to the effect control device 124. These commands are transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process (step S212 in FIG. 11).

  In this embodiment, since the 7-segment LED is used for the first special symbol display device 34 and the second special symbol display device 35, for example, the display mode of the stop symbol at the time of disconnection is always set to one segment (the central bar). It is possible to fix the stop symbol number data to one value (for example, 64H) by keeping only the “−”) lighting display. In this case, the storage capacity used in the program can be reduced, the processing load on the main control CPU 72 can be reduced, and the processing speed can be improved.

  Step S2405: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a deviation variation pattern determination process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the fluctuation pattern number at the time of deviation for the special symbol (fluctuation pattern determination means, fluctuation time determination means). The variation pattern number is used to distinguish the variation display type (pattern) of the special symbol or to correspond to the variation time required for the variation display. The fluctuation time at the time of loss varies depending on whether or not it is in the above “time shortening state”, and also depends on the total number of stored first special symbols and second special symbols at the start of fluctuation (at the start of fluctuation display). . In this process, the main control CPU 72 loads the game state flag, checks whether or not the current state is the “time reduction state”, and also determines the value of the first special symbol operation memory number and the second special symbol operation. Load the value of each memory number. In the “time reduction state”, except for the case where reach fluctuation is basically performed, the fluctuation time at the time of loss is set to a shortened time (for example, about 4.0 to 1.5 seconds depending on the total number of memories). The Even if not in the “time shortening state”, the fluctuation time at the time of loss may be shortened based on the total stored number of the first special symbol and the second special symbol, except when the reach variation is performed. Note that the symbol stop display time at the time of disconnection is constant (for example, about 0.5 seconds) regardless of the variation pattern. The main control CPU 72 sets the value of the determined fluctuation time (at the time of disconnection) in the fluctuation timer, and sets the value of the stop display time at the time of disconnection in the stop symbol display timer.

  In the present embodiment, when the result of the internal lottery is a non-winning result, for example, a “reach effect” is generated and the control is performed so that the “reach effect” is not generated. It is said. The “variation pattern selection table at the time of loss” preliminarily defines variation patterns corresponding to a plurality of types of effects such as “non-reach effect” and “reach effect”. One of the fluctuation patterns is selected from the inside. The reach production includes various reach production such as normal reach production, long reach production, super reach production, and the like.

[Example of variation pattern selection table for loss]
FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating an example of the deviation variation pattern selection table.
This selection table is a table to be used at the time of a loss (when it corresponds to non-winning) (variation pattern defining means, varying time defining means). In addition, this selection table has a structure in which, for example, “comparison value” and “variation pattern number” are stored as a set of 1 byte each in order from the head address. The “comparison value” includes, for example, eight different values “101”, “201”, “211”, “221”, “231”, “241”, “251”, “255 (FFH)”. “1” to “8” of “variation pattern number” are assigned to each “comparison value”.

  Fluctuation pattern numbers “1” to “5” correspond to fluctuation patterns that are out of reach without performing a reach effect, and fluctuation pattern numbers “6” to “8” are fluctuation patterns that are out of reach after reaching. It corresponds. Among these, for fluctuation patterns 7 and 8 (fluctuation pattern numbers “7” and “8”) (shaded portions in the figure), a relatively long fluctuation time (for example, 1 minute or more) is set. It is defined as “a specific type of variation pattern”. Note that such a variation pattern selection table is also used in the prior determination process of the effect determination process at the time of acquisition (FIG. 15) (the same applies to the big hit).

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

FIG. 19 is a diagram for explaining the variation time of the special symbol.
In the present embodiment, the variation time of the special symbols (the first special symbol and the second special symbol) is the first special symbol and the second special symbol at the start of the variation (after the memory shift process), except when the reach variation is performed. Is changed based on the total stored number (so-called total number of pending). This table is applied when the fluctuation patterns 1 to 5 in the above-described deviation fluctuation pattern selection table (see FIG. 18) are selected. Specific numerical values are as follows.

[Common to the 1st special design and the 2nd special design]
(Total memory number 0) Fluctuation time: about 12 seconds (Total memory number 1) Fluctuation time: About 10 seconds (Total memory number 2) Fluctuation time: About 10 seconds (Total memory number 3) Fluctuation time: About 2.0 seconds (Total memory number 4) Fluctuation time: About 2.0 seconds (Total memory number 5) Fluctuation time: About 2.0 seconds (Total memory number 6) Fluctuation time: About 2.0 seconds (Total memory number 7) Fluctuation time About 6.0 seconds The above total memory number “0-7” is obtained after subtracting the first special symbol working memory number or the second special symbol working memory number in the special symbol memory area shift process (step S2200). It is the sum of the values. Therefore, the total memory number before the memory shift (the working memory number counter is subtracted) in the same process is “1-8”.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, when the total stored number at the start of variation is 3 to 6, for example, the normal time set to the normal length as the variation time of the first special symbol or the second special symbol Instead of the fluctuation time (10 seconds to 12 seconds), a first reduction fluctuation time (about 2.0 seconds) that is shorter than the normal fluctuation time is set (first reduction fluctuation time setting means).

  On the other hand, when the total stored number at the start of variation is, for example, 7 (eight specified values before the storage shift), the variation time of the first special symbol or the second special symbol is shorter than the normal variation time. However, a second shortened variation time (about 6.0 seconds) longer than the first shortened variation time is set (second shortened variation time setting means).

  As described above, the second shortened variation time is set when the total number of memories at the start of variation is seven for the following reason. In other words, in this embodiment, regardless of whether the time reduction state or the non-time reduction state is in effect, the distribution device 200 wins the right start winning opening 26 and the variable start winning device 28 (left start winning prize). It is possible to alternately generate a prize for the mouth 28a) (or to promote the generation of a prize alternately). For this reason, if the launch of the game ball is not particularly interrupted, the number of working memories of the first special symbol and the number of working memories of the second special symbol each reach the maximum value (4), so that in the normal state It is quite possible that the total number of memories reaches a specified value (eight of the sum of the maximum values) during the game. Then, when the total stored number reaches a specified value during the game in the normal state, in the present embodiment, a special zone effect (special period effect) is executed using the memory number effect device unit 41, the liquid crystal display 42, or the like. In order to secure the necessary production time (production scale) for that purpose, the fluctuation time is set to the second shortened fluctuation time (for example, about 6.0 seconds) when the total number of memories is seven. It is said. Such a special zone effect will be described later with a specific example.

[Refer to Fig. 17: Special symbol change pre-processing]
The above steps S2404 and S2405 are control procedures when the big hit determination result is out of place (in the case other than non-winning), but the determination result is a big hit (step S2400: Yes) or a small hit (step S2402: Yes). The main control CPU 72 executes the following procedure. First, the case of jackpot will be described.

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

[Winning pattern at the time of big hit]
In the present embodiment, there are four types of winning symbols that are selectively determined at the time of a big hit. The four types are “2-round normal symbol”, “2-round probability variable symbol”, “15 round normal symbol”, and “15 round probability variable symbol”. Note that each of the four types of winning symbols may further include a plurality of winning symbols. For example, in the case of “15 round probability variation symbol”, “15 round probability variation symbol a”, “15 round probability variation symbol b”, “15 round probability variation symbol c”, and so on.

In the present embodiment, the first special symbol and the second special symbol are different in the type of winning symbol selected at the time of the big winning of the internal lottery corresponding to each. That is, at the time of the big winning of the internal lottery corresponding to the first special symbol, any one of “2 round normal symbol”, “2 round probability variable symbol”, “15 round normal symbol”, and “15 round probability variable symbol” is selected.
On the other hand, at the time of the big winning of the internal lottery corresponding to the second special symbol, “15 round normal symbol” or “15 round probability variation symbol” is selected. For this reason, the main control CPU 72 distinguishes the objects that can be selected as the winning symbol depending on whether the result of the big hit this time corresponds to the first special symbol or the second special symbol.

[First Special Symbol Big Stop Stop Symbol Selection Table]
FIG. 20 is a diagram showing a configuration column of the first special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table. When the result of the big jackpot corresponds to the first special symbol, the main control CPU 72 determines the winning symbol type with reference to the first special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table shown in FIG.

  In the first special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, the left column shows the distribution value by winning symbol, and each distribution value “10”, “20”, “50” is set to 100. Corresponds to the ratio of cases. In the second column from the left, “2-round normal symbol”, “2-round probability variation symbol”, “15 round normal symbol”, and “15 round probability variation symbol” corresponding to each distribution value are shown. That is, at the big hit corresponding to the first special symbol, the ratio of “2 round normal symbol” is 10/100 (= 10%), and the rate of “2 round probability variation symbol” is 100 minutes. 20 (= 20%). Further, the ratio of selecting “15 round normal symbol” is 20/100 (= 20%), and the ratio of selecting “15 round probability variable symbol” is 50/100 (= 50%). The size of each distribution value corresponds to the selection ratio for each winning symbol using a jackpot symbol random number. Therefore, the selection ratio of the probability variation symbol for the first special symbol as a whole is 70%.

  In any case, if the current jackpot result corresponds to the first special symbol, the main control CPU 72 performs a selection lottery based on the jackpot symbol random number, and the selection ratio shown in the first special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table To select the winning symbol selectively. Further, in the first special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, for example, 2-byte command data is defined as a stop symbol command at the time of winning as shown in the third column from the left. The stop symbol command is described by, for example, a combination of MODE value-EVENT value, and among these, the MODE value “B1H” of the upper byte is selected when the winning symbol of this time is the big hit of the first special symbol. Represents. Further, the EVENT values “00H”, “01H”, “02H”, and “03H” in the lower byte represent the types of winning symbols corresponding in the selection table. Therefore, for example, if the result of the big hit this time corresponds to the first special symbol, and “2 round normal symbol” is selected as the winning symbol, the stop symbol command at the time of winning is described as “B1H00H” It will be.

  As described above, when the selected symbol is selected from the first special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, the main control CPU 72 generates a stop symbol command at that time. The generated stop symbol command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process described above, for example. Further, the main control CPU 72 determines a big hit stop symbol number for the first special symbol based on the selected winning symbol.

[2nd special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table]
FIG. 21 is a diagram showing a configuration column of the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table. When the result of the big jackpot corresponds to the second special symbol, the main control CPU 72 determines the winning symbol type with reference to the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table shown in FIG.

  Also in the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, the left column shows the distribution value by winning symbol, and each of the distribution values “30” and “70” is the case where the denominator is 100. It corresponds to the ratio. Similarly, in the second column from the left, “2 round normal symbol”, “2 round probability variable symbol”, “15 round normal symbol”, and “15 round probability variable symbol” corresponding to each distribution value are shown. . That is, at the big hit corresponding to the second special symbol, the ratio of “15 round normal symbol” is 30/100 (= 30%), and the proportion of “15 round probability variation symbol” is selected. It is 70/100 (= 70%). Therefore, also for the second special symbol, the selection ratio of the probability variation symbol as a whole is 70%. However, in the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, the distribution values for “2-round normal symbol” and “2-round probability variation symbol” are not set.

  When the result of this big hit corresponds to the second special symbol, the main control CPU 72 performs a selection lottery based on the big hit symbol random number, and selects the winning symbol with the selection ratio shown in the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table To decide. Similarly, in the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, for example, 2-byte command data is defined as the stop symbol command at the time of winning as shown in the third column from the left. Again, the stop symbol command is described by the combination of the above MODE value-EVENT value. Among these, the MODE value “B2H” of the upper byte is the one selected when the winning symbol of the second special symbol is the current winning symbol. It represents that. Also, the EVENT values “02H” and “03H” in the lower byte represent the types of winning symbols corresponding to the selection table. For this reason, for example, if the result of this jackpot corresponds to the second special symbol, and “15 round normal symbol” is selected as the winning symbol, the stop symbol command will be described as “B2H02H”. .

  As described above, when the selected symbol is selected from the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, the main control CPU 72 generates a stop symbol command at that time. The generated stop symbol command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process described above, for example. Further, the main control CPU 72 determines a big hit stop symbol number for the second special symbol based on the selected winning symbol.

  Note that the selected winning symbols are different between the first special symbol and the second special symbol as described above, for example, for the following reason. That is, when shifting to the “high probability state” or “time shortening state”, the variable start winning device 28 operates more frequently than in the normal time (when the time shortening function is not activated), so the second special symbol The working memory of is difficult to break. And if you exclude “2 round jackpots” from the winning type for the second special symbol, it will be difficult to draw “2 round jackpots” especially in the “high probability state” and “time saving state”. There is an advantage that there is little inconvenience.

  However, in the present embodiment, the working memory can be increased at the same pace as the first special symbol even during the second special symbol from the normal game using the sorting device 200, so the first special symbol as described above. The same selection ratio may be adopted for both the second special symbol and the second special symbol without making a difference in the selection ratio of the winning symbol.

[Refer to Fig. 17: Special symbol change pre-processing]
Step S2412: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a big hit hour variation pattern determination process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the variation pattern (variation time and stop display time) of the first special symbol or the second special symbol based on the variation pattern determination random number shifted in the previous step S2200. The main control CPU 72 sets the determined variation time value in the variation timer, and sets the stop display time value in the stop symbol display timer. In general, in the case of big hit reach fluctuation, a fluctuation time longer than that at the time of loss is determined.

  In the present embodiment, when the result of the internal lottery corresponds to 15 rounds big hit (15 round normal big hit or 15 rounds probable big hit), for example, a “reach effect” is generated to produce a big hit. . In the “15th round big hit winning variation pattern selection table”, a plurality of types of variation patterns corresponding to “reach production” are defined. A pattern will be selected. The reach production includes various reach production such as normal reach production, long reach production, super reach production, and the like.

[Example of the variation pattern selection table when winning 15 rounds big hit]
FIG. 22 is a diagram showing an example of a variation pattern selection table at the time of winning 15 rounds.
This selection table is a table used when a 15-round big hit is won (a variation pattern defining unit, a variation time defining unit). In addition, this selection table has a structure in which, for example, “comparison value” and “variation pattern number” are stored as a set of 1 byte each in order from the head address. The “comparison value” includes, for example, eight different values “101”, “201”, “211”, “221”, “231”, “241”, “251”, “255 (FFH)”. “13” to “20” of “variation pattern number” are assigned to each “comparison value”.

  The variation pattern numbers “13” to “20” all correspond to the variation pattern that is a hit when the reach effect is performed. Among these, for variation patterns 17 to 20 (variation pattern numbers “17” to “20”) (shaded portions in the figure), a relatively long variation time (for example, 1 minute or more) is set. It is defined as “a specific type of variation pattern”.

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

[Refer to Fig. 17: Special symbol change pre-processing]
Step S2414: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a big hit other setting process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the game state flag is selected regardless of whether the winning symbol type (big hit stop symbol number) determined in the previous step S2410 is “2 round probability variation symbol” or “15 round probability variation symbol”. As a result, the value (01H) of the probability variation function activation flag is set in the flag area of the RAM 76 (high probability state transition means, probability variation function activation means). Further, the main control CPU 72 resets the value of the probability variation function operation flag as the gaming state flag when the type of winning symbol determined in the previous step S2410 is “15 round normal symbol” or “2 round normal symbol”. (Low probability state setting means, low probability state transition means).

  In addition, the main control CPU 72 selects all the winning symbols whose types of winning symbols determined in the previous step S2410 (successful symbol number at the time of big hit) are “15 round normal symbol”, “15 round probability variable symbol”, and “2 round probability variable symbol”. The main control CPU 72 sets the time shortening function operation flag value (01H) as a game state flag in the flag area of the RAM 76 (time shortening state transition means, time shortening function operation means). However, the “two-round probability variation symbol” is limited to the case where the internal state is a high probability state (the electric chew support is added for the two-round probability variation winning in the so-called latent probability variation state).

  In the process of step S2414, the main control CPU 72 determines the display mode of the stop symbol (big hit symbol) by the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35 based on the big hit time stop symbol number. At the same time, the main control CPU 72 generates a lottery result command (at the time of the big hit) together with the stop symbol command (at the time of the big hit). The stop symbol command and the lottery result command are also transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process.

Next, processing for small hits will be described.
Step S2407: The main control CPU 72 executes a small hit stop symbol determination process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the type of winning symbol at the time of small hit (stop symbol number at small hit) based on the big hit symbol random number. Similarly, the relationship between the big winning symbol random number value and the type of winning symbol at the time of small hitting is preliminarily defined in the special symbol selection table at small hitting (winning type defining means). In this embodiment, in order to reduce the load on the main control CPU 72, the winning symbol at the time of the small hit is determined using the big hit symbol random number, but a dedicated random number may be used separately.

[Winning pattern for small hits]
In the present embodiment, the winning symbol at the time of small hitting is only one type of “twice open small hitting symbol”. However, other types such as “one time opening small hit symbol” and “three times opening small hit symbol” may be prepared. As described above, “small hit” as a result of the internal lottery is not an opportunity for the subsequent state to change to “high probability state” or “time reduction state”, and thus is essential for this type of pachinko machine. A “one-time small hit symbol” can be provided without being bound by the definition of “two rounds (two times open) or more”.

  Step S2408: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a small hit hour variation pattern determination process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the variation pattern (variation time and stop display time) of the first special symbol based on the variation pattern determination random number shifted in the previous step S2200 (variation pattern determination means, variation time determination means). ). Further, the main control CPU 72 sets the determined variation time value in the variation timer, and sets the stop display time value in the stop symbol display timer. In the present embodiment, in the case of a small hit, a variation pattern equivalent to that at the time of variation is selected.

  Step S2409: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a small hitting and other setting process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the display mode of the stop symbol (small hit symbol) by the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35 based on the stop symbol number at the time of small hit. In addition, the main control CPU 72 generates a stop symbol command and a lottery result command (at the time of a small hit) to be transmitted to the effect control device 124. The stop symbol command and the lottery result command are also transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process.

  Step S2415: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes special symbol variation start processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 selects the fluctuation pattern data based on the fluctuation pattern number (out of time / hit). At the same time, the main control CPU 72 sets a special symbol variation start flag in the flag area of the RAM 76. Then, the main control CPU 72 generates a change start command to be transmitted to the effect control device 124. This variation start command is also transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process. When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 sets the special symbol changing process (step S3000) as the next jump destination and returns to the special symbol game process.

[Fig. 16: Special symbol change processing, special symbol stop display processing]
In the special symbol fluctuation processing, the main control CPU 72 loads the value of the fluctuation timer from the register to the timer counter as described above, and then the timer according to the passage of time (clock pulse count number or interrupt counter value). Decrement the counter value. The main control CPU 72 controls the special symbol variation display as described above until the value becomes 0 while referring to the value of the timer counter. When the value of the timer counter becomes 0, the main control CPU 72 sets the special symbol stop display in-progress process (step S4000) as the next jump destination.

  In the special symbol stop display process, the main control CPU 72 controls the special symbol stop display based on the stop symbol determined in the stop symbol determination process (steps S2404, S2407, and S2410 in FIG. 17). The main control CPU 72 generates a symbol stop command to be transmitted to the effect control device 124. The symbol stop command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process. When the stop symbol is displayed for a predetermined time in the special symbol stop display process, the main control CPU 72 deletes the symbol changing flag.

[Special symbol memory area shift processing]
FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the special symbol storage area shift process. When the value of the operation memory counter corresponding to the first special symbol or the second special symbol is larger than “0” in the previous special symbol fluctuation pre-processing (step S2100: Yes in FIG. 17), the main control CPU 72 Executes this special symbol storage area shift process. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along each procedure.

  Step S2210: The main control CPU 72 refers to the random number storage area and confirms whether or not the oldest memory corresponds to the first special symbol. This confirmation can be realized by confirming whether or not a random number corresponding to the first special symbol is stored in the first section of the random number storage area of the RAM 76. At this time, if it is confirmed that the oldest memory does not correspond to the first special symbol (No), the main control CPU 72 then proceeds to step S2212.

  Step S2212: The main control CPU 72 designates the second special symbol as the target special symbol (special symbol to be changed). This designation is performed, for example, by setting “02H” as the target symbol designation value.

  Step S2214: On the other hand, when it is confirmed that the oldest memory corresponds to the first special symbol (Step S2210: Yes), the main control CPU 72 designates the first special symbol as the target special symbol. The designation in this case is performed, for example, by setting “01H” as the target symbol designation value.

  Step S2216: The main control CPU 72 shifts the random number storage area of the RAM 76. The details of the specific processing are as already described in the previous special symbol change pre-processing.

  Step S2218: The main control CPU 72 subtracts the value of the operation memory counter for the target special symbol designated in either step S2212 or step S2214. For example, if the current target special symbol is the second special symbol, the main control CPU 72 subtracts (-1) the value of the working memory counter corresponding to the second special symbol.

  Step S2220: Then, the main control CPU 72 sets “the number of operation memories at the start of change (total number of memories)” from the value of the operation memory counter after the subtraction. Here, for both the first special symbol and the second special symbol, the value of the operation memory counter is added, and then the “variation start operation memory number (total memory number)” is set. The “actual memory number at start of change (total stored number)” set here is, for example, the time when the change time for each total stored number is set in the change pattern determination process at the time of loss (step S2405 in FIG. 17). Can be referred to.

Step S2222: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the target special symbol is the second special symbol.
Step S2224: When the target special symbol is the second special symbol (step S2222: Yes), the main control CPU 72 sets an effect command for reducing the number of working memories with respect to the second special symbol. The effect command set here is also generated as a one-word-length command, but its structure is in contrast to the above-described “effect command when increasing the number of working memories”. That is, the production command at the time when the number of working memories decreases is lower than the value of lower bytes (for example, “00H” to “03H” that represents the number of working memories after reduction with respect to the preceding value (for example, “BCH”) of the upper bytes representing the command type. )) And an additional value (for example, “10H”) meaning “decrease in the number of working memories accompanying consumption” is further added (logical sum) to the lower byte value. Therefore, for the lower byte, the second value becomes “1” by ORing the added value “10H”, and this value represents “the result (change information) due to the decrease in the number of working memories”. It will be a thing. In other words, if the lower byte of the command is “13H”, it means that the number of working memories up to the previous time “4” (command notation is “14H”) is reduced by one, so that the current working memory number is “3” (command The notation is “13H”). Similarly, if the lower byte is “12H” to “10H”, it means that the number of working memories “3” to “1” up to the previous time (command notation is “13H” to “11H”) is decreased by one respectively. This indicates that the current operation memory number is “2” to “0” (command notation is “12H” to “10H”). The preceding value “BCH” is a value indicating that the current effect command is the working memory number command for the second special symbol.

  Step S2226: When the current target special symbol is the first special symbol (step S2222: No), the main control CPU 72 sets an effect command for reducing the number of working memories with respect to the first special symbol. The command in this case is the same as the above except that the preceding value is a value (for example, “BBH”) indicating that the previous value is the working memory number command for the first special symbol.

Step S2228: Then, the main control CPU 72 executes an effect command output process. This process is for transmitting the production command for reducing the number of working memories set in the previous step S2224 or step S2226 to the production control device 124 (memory number notification means).
When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol variation pre-processing (FIG. 17).

[Special symbol stop display processing]
Next, FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the special symbol stop display process. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along each procedure.

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

  Step S4200: The main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the stop display time has ended based on the value of the stop symbol display timer subtracted this time. Specifically, if the value of the stop symbol display timer is not 0 or less, the main control CPU 72 determines that the stop display time has not yet ended (No). In this case, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game process, and jumps from the execution selection process (step S1000 in FIG. 16) and repeatedly executes the special symbol stop display process in the next interrupt cycle.

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

  Step S4250: The main control CPU 72 generates a symbol stop command. The symbol stop command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process. Further, the main control CPU 72 deletes the symbol changing flag here.

  Step S4300: Here, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the value of the big hit flag (01H) is set. When the value of the big hit flag (01H) is set (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S4350.

[When winning]
Step S4350: The main control CPU 72 sets the jump destination of the jump table to “variable winning device management process”.
Step S4400: The main control CPU 72 sets “start of big role (during big hit game)” as an internal state flag for control. At the same time, the main control CPU 72 generates a status command representing a big hit. The state command representing the big hit is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process.

  Step S4500: The main control CPU 72 generates a continuous operation number command. The continuous operation number command can be generated based on the type of jackpot symbol (stop symbol number) determined in the previous jackpot stop symbol determination process (step S2410 in FIG. 17). For example, if the type of jackpot symbol is any one of “15 round probability variation symbols”, the continuous operation number command is generated as a value representing “15 rounds”. In the case of “2-round probability variation symbol”, the continuous operation number command is generated as a value representing “2 rounds”. The generated continuous operation number command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process.

  When the above procedure is completed at the time of the big hit, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game process.

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

  Step S4600: The main control CPU 72 next checks whether or not the value of the small hit flag (01H) is set. If the value of the small hit flag (01H) is not set and is simply a deviation (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S4602.

  Step S4602: The main control CPU 72 sets the special symbol variation pre-processing address as the jump destination address of the jump table.

  Step S4605: On the other hand, if the value (01H) of the small hit flag is set (step S4600: Yes), the main control CPU 72 sets the address of the variable winning device management process as the jump destination address of the jump table.

  Step S4606: Then, the main control CPU 72 sets “small hit start (medium hit)” as an internal state flag for control. At the same time, the main control CPU 72 generates a status command indicating that a small hit is being made. The state command representing the small hit is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process.

  Step 4610: Next, the main control CPU 72 loads the value of the count-down counter. In the “counting counter”, the counter values are set in the probability variation count area and the time reduction count area of the RAM 76 in the “high probability state” and “time reduction state”. In this case, “number of times cut” is used, but the value of the number of times counter in the “high probability state” can be set to an extremely large value (for example, 10,000 times or more). By setting such an enormous value, it is possible to probabilistically guarantee that the “high probability state” will continue until the next winning is substantially obtained. In addition, when there is only a single “time reduction state” instead of the “high probability state”, the count-off counter is set to a standard numerical value (for example, 100 times).

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

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

  Step S4650: Here, the main control CPU 72 resets a flag at the time of turning off the number of times function. The probability variable function operation flag or the time shortening function operation flag is reset, but since the value of the count counter is not zero in the “high probability state” as described above, it is practical. It is the time reduction function activation flag that is reset above. As a result, the time reduction state ends after the special symbol stop display. When the above procedure is completed, the process returns to the special symbol game process.

[Display output management processing]
Next, FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing a configuration example of the display output management process (step S210 in FIG. 11) executed in the interrupt management process. The display output management process includes a special symbol display setting process (step S1200), a normal symbol display setting process (step S1210), a state display setting process (step S1220), an operation memory display setting process (step S1230), and a continuous operation number display setting. This is a configuration including a subroutine group of processing (step S1240).

  Among these, the special symbol display setting process (step S1200), the normal symbol display setting process (step S1210), and the operation memory display setting process (step S1230) are the first special symbol display device 34, the second, as already described. Generates drive signals to be applied to the LEDs of the special symbol display device 35, the normal symbol display device 33, the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a, the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a, and the second special symbol operation memory number display lamp 35a. And output processing.

  The state display setting process (step S1220) and the continuous operation number display setting process (step S1240) are processes for generating and outputting a drive signal to be applied to each LED of the gaming state display device 38. First, in the state display setting process, the main control CPU 72 controls the lighting of the probability variation state display lamp 38c and the time reduction state display lamp 38d, respectively, according to the value of the probability variation function activation flag or the time reduction function activation flag. For example, if the value (01H) is set in the probability variation function operation flag when the pachinko machine 1 is turned on, the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the LED corresponding to the probability variation state display lamp 38c. Note that the probability variation state display lamp 38c is switched to non-display (turned off) even if the probability variation function operation flag is set when the variation display of the special symbol is performed thereafter. On the other hand, if the value (01H) is set in the time reduction function operation flag, the main control CPU 72 turns on the lighting signal for the LED corresponding to the time reduction state display lamp 38d regardless of whether or not the power is turned on. Is output.

  The main control CPU 72 controls lighting of the big hit type display lamps 38a and 38b in the continuous operation number display setting process. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal for one of the big hit type display lamps 38a and 38b based on the value of the above-mentioned continuous operation number command. At this time, one of the display lamps 38a and 38b corresponding to the big hit symbol designated by the continuous operation number command is the target of outputting the lighting signal. For example, if the value of the continuous operation number command specifies “15 rounds”, the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the lamp 38b representing “15 rounds (15R)”. If the value of the continuous operation number command specifies “2 rounds”, the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the lamp 38 a representing “2 rounds (2R)”.

[Variable winning device management process]
Next, details of the variable winning device management process will be described. FIG. 26 is a flowchart illustrating a configuration example of the variable winning device management process. The variable winning device management process includes a gaming process selection process (step S5100), a special winning opening opening pattern setting process (step S5200), a special winning opening / closing operation process (step S5300), a special winning opening closing process (step S5400), and an end. This is a configuration including a subroutine group of processing (step S5500).

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

[Big prize opening pattern setting process]
FIG. 27 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the special winning opening opening pattern setting process. This process is for setting conditions such as the number of times that the variable winning device 30 is opened and closed and the time for each opening at the time of big hit or small hit. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along each procedure.

  Step S5202: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the current gaming state is a big game, that is, whether or not the big hit flag value (01H) is set in the flag area of the RAM 76. If the value of the big hit flag is set (Yes), the main control CPU 72 then proceeds to step S5204. On the other hand, if the value of the big hit flag is not set (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S5212. Note that this procedure may be rewritten to refer to the value of the small hit flag (however, the logic of Yes / No is reversed).

[Procedure for jackpot]
First, the procedure for the big hit is as follows.
Step S5204: The main control CPU 72 executes a design-specific release pattern setting process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the winning pattern opening pattern (number of times of opening for each round and the time of each opening), the interval time between rounds, and the number of counts in one round (maximum) according to the current winning symbol. Set the number of winnings). The opening pattern for each winning symbol is the same as described in the item “plural winning types” in the special symbol game process (FIG. 16). Further, the interval time between rounds is set to, for example, about 2 seconds for the “2 round symbol” and about several seconds (for example, 2 to 2.5 seconds) for the “15 round symbol”. In addition, the number of counts in one round (maximum number of winnings) is 9 for all winning symbols, for example, but as mentioned above, winnings occur during an extremely short time (about 0.1 seconds). Is very rare (not impossible but extremely difficult).

  Step S5206: The main control CPU 72 sets the number of execution rounds in the current jackpot game based on the jackpot winning symbol selected in the previous jackpot stop symbol determination process (step S2410 in FIG. 17). Specifically, if the large category “15 round symbol” is selected as the winning symbol, the main control CPU 72 sets the number of execution rounds to 15 times. If “2 round symbols” is selected as the winning symbol, the main control CPU 72 sets the number of execution rounds to two. The number of execution rounds set here is stored in the buffer area of the RAM 76, for example, as a corresponding value on the program (“1” for 2 times, “14” for 15 times).

  Step S5208: Next, the main control CPU 72 sets a big hit opening timer based on the big winning opening opening pattern set in the previous step S5204. The timer value set here is the opening time per operation when the variable winning device 30 is operated. If a value of about 29.0 seconds is set as the value of the big hit release timer, the release time is a sufficient time (for example, a launch control board) that the big winning opening is easily generated during one release. The set 174 is a time during which 10 or more game balls are fired, preferably 6 seconds or more. On the other hand, if the value of the big hit release timer is set to 0.1 seconds, the release time is short (becomes difficult) even if it is not possible to win a big prize opening during one opening. This is a time (for example, a time shorter than 1 second, preferably a time shorter than a game ball firing interval by the firing control board set 174).

  Step S5210: Then, the main control CPU 72 sets a big hit interval timer based on the big winning opening opening pattern set in the previous step S5204. The timer value set here is the waiting time between rounds of big hits.

  Step S5220: When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the big winning opening / closing operation processing, and returns to the variable winning device management processing.

[Procedure for small hits]
Step S5212: On the other hand, in the case of a small hit (step S5202: No), the main control CPU 72 sets a “small hit opening pattern”. In the case of the present embodiment, for the “small hit opening pattern”, for example, an opening pattern of “0.1 second opening” is set for the first time and the second time. Since “small hit” has no concept of “round”, “open pattern” is also expressed as “first open” and “second open”.

  Step S5214: The main control CPU 72 sets the number of times that the special winning opening is opened based on the large winning opening opening pattern set in the previous step S5212, for example, two times. The number of releases set here is stored in a buffer area of the RAM 76, for example.

  Step S5216: Next, the main control CPU 72 sets a small hitting release timer. The timer value set here is the opening time per operation when the variable winning device 30 is operated. In the present embodiment, as described above, 0.1 seconds is set as the value of the small hitting release timer, and during such an opening time, there is hardly any winning in the big winning opening during one opening. It becomes a short time (becomes difficult) (for example, a time shorter than 1 second, preferably a time shorter than the interval between game balls fired by the launching device unit).

  Step S5218: The main control CPU 72 sets a small hitting interval timer. The timer value set here is a waiting time for each time when the variable winning device 30 is opened and closed a plurality of times at the time of a small hit, and this timer value is set to about 2 seconds, for example.

  Step S5220: When the above procedure is completed at the time of the small hit, the main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the large winning opening / closing operation processing, and returns to the variable winning device management processing. Then, the main control CPU 72 executes a special winning opening / closing operation process.

[Big prize opening / closing operation processing]
FIG. 28 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the special winning opening / closing operation process. This process is mainly for controlling the opening / closing operation of the variable winning device 30. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along a procedure.

  Step S5302: The main control CPU 72 opens the special winning opening. Specifically, a drive signal to be applied to the special winning opening solenoid 90 is output. Thereby, the variable prize-winning apparatus 30 operates and shifts from the closed state to the open state.

  Step S5304: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes an open timer countdown process. In this process, the countdown of the release timer set in the previous winning opening opening pattern setting process (step S5208 or step S5216 in FIG. 27) is executed.

  Step S5306: Subsequently, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the opening time has expired. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the release timer after the countdown process is 0 or less. If the value of the release timer is not yet 0 or less (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5308. Execute.

  Step S5308: The main control CPU 72 executes a winning ball count process. In this process, the number of game balls won in the variable winning device 30 (open winning opening) within the opening time is counted. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 increments the count value based on the winning detection signal input from the count switch 84 within the opening time.

  Step S5310: Next, the main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the current count number is less than a predetermined number (9). This predetermined number defines the upper limit of the number of winning balls (upper limit of the number of winning balls) allowed per opening (one round in the big hit, one in the small hit) as described above. If the count has not yet reached the predetermined number (Yes), the main control CPU 72 returns to the variable winning device management process. Then, when the variable winning device management process is executed next, since the jump destination is set to the large winning opening / closing operation process at the present stage, the main control CPU 72 repeatedly executes the procedure of the above steps S5302 to S5310.

  If it is determined in step S5306 that the opening time has expired (Yes), or if it is confirmed in step S5310 that the count has reached a predetermined number (No), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S5312. It should be noted that since the release timer value is set for a short time for both the first hit and the second round release of the “two-round probability variation symbol” at the small hit, the main control CPU 72 normally performs step S5310. In most cases, it is determined in step S5306 that the opening time has ended before confirming that the count number has reached the predetermined number.

  Step S5312: The main control CPU 72 closes the special winning opening. Specifically, the output of the drive signal applied to the special winning opening solenoid 90 is stopped. As a result, the variable winning device 30 returns from the open state to the closed state.

  Step S5314: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes interval standby processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 executes the count-down of the interval timer set in the above-described special winning opening opening pattern setting process (step S5210 or step S5218 in FIG. 27). When the value of the interval timer becomes 0 or less, the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S5316.

  Step S5316: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not it is in a big role (during big hit game). If the current game is a big game (Yes), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S5318. On the other hand, if the current game is a small hit (No), the main control CPU 72 then proceeds to step S5322.

  Step S5318: The main control CPU 72 increments the value of the opening number counter. Note that the value of the number-of-releases counter is stored in the count area of the RAM 76 with an initial value of 0, for example.

  Step S5320: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the value of the incremented number-of-releases counter has reached the number set within the current round. Here, the reason why the “number of times set in the current round” is determined is to deal with an opening pattern of “opening the variable winning device 30 multiple times within one round of big hit”, for example. . In the present embodiment, since such an open pattern is not particularly employed, the “number of times set in the current round” is set once for each round. Therefore, since the counter value reaches the set number of times in one opening / closing operation (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next proceeds to step S5322.

  If a pattern in which a plurality of opening / closing operations are repeated in one round as described above is employed, the counter value has not yet reached the set number of times at the end of one opening (No). In this case, when the main control CPU 72 returns to the variable winning device management process, the jump destination is set to the big winning opening / closing operation process at the present stage, and thus the procedure from step S5302 to step S5320 is repeatedly executed. As a result, the increment of the number-of-releases counter proceeds in step S5318, and when the counter value reaches the set number of times (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S5322.

  Step S5322: The main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the big winning opening closing process, and returns to the variable winning device management process. Then, when the variable winning device management process is executed next, the main control CPU 72 executes a special winning opening closing process.

[Large prize closing process]
FIG. 29 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure for a special winning opening closing process. This special winning opening closing process is for continuing the operation of the variable winning device 30 or terminating the operation. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along a procedure.

  Step S5401: First, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the current game is a big game (big hit game), and if it is a big game (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5402.

  Step S5402: The main control CPU 72 increments the round number counter. Thereby, for example, the value of the round number counter is “1” at the stage where the first round ends and the second round is reached.

  Step S5404: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the incremented round number counter value has reached the set number of execution rounds. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 refers to the value (1-14) of the round number counter after increment, and if the value is less than the set number of execution rounds (1-14 after 1 subtraction) (No) Next, step S5405 is executed.

  Step S5405: The main control CPU 72 generates a round number command from the current round number counter value. This command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process as described above. The effect control device 124 can confirm the current number of rounds based on the received round number command.

  Step S5406: The main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination in the big prize opening / closing operation process.

  Step S5408: Then, the main control CPU 72 resets the winning ball counter and returns to the variable winning device management process.

  When the main control CPU 72 next executes the variable winning device management process, the main control CPU 72 executes a big prize opening / closing operation process as the next jump destination in the game process selection process (step S5100 in FIG. 26). Then, after execution of the special prize opening / closing operation process, through the execution of the special prize opening closing process, the main control CPU 72 executes the special prize opening closing process again, and repeatedly executes the above steps S5402 to S5408. Thereby, the opening / closing operation of the variable winning device 30 is continuously executed until the actual round number reaches the set execution round number (2 times or 15 times).

  When the actual number of rounds reaches the set number of execution rounds (step S5404: YES), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5410.

  Step S5410, Step S5412: In this case, when the main control CPU 72 resets the round number counter (= 0), it sets the next jump destination to the end process.

  Step S5408: Then, the main control CPU 72 resets the winning ball counter and returns to the variable winning device management process. As a result, when the main control CPU 72 next executes the variable winning device management process, the end process is selected this time.

[Small hit]
On the other hand, in the case of a small hit, the procedure is as follows (special operation execution means).
Step S5411: When the main control CPU 72 confirms that the current game is not playing a major role (step S5401: No), the main control CPU 72 increments the value of the number-of-releases counter.

  Step S5413: Next, the main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the value of the incremented number-of-releases counter has reached the set number of times of release. The number of times of opening is set in the previous big opening opening pattern setting process (step S5214 in FIG. 27). If the value of the opening number counter has not yet reached the set opening number (No), the main control CPU 72 executes step S5416.

Step S5416: The main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination in the special winning opening / closing operation process.
Step S5408: Then, the main control CPU 72 resets the winning ball counter and returns to the variable winning device management process.

  When the main control CPU 72 next executes the variable winning device management process, the main control CPU 72 executes a big prize opening / closing operation process as the next jump destination in the game process selection process (step S5100 in FIG. 26). Then, after the execution of the special prize opening / closing operation process, the main control CPU 72 executes the special prize opening closing process again through the execution of the special prize opening closing process, and goes through the above steps S5401 to S5413 (No) to step S5416. Step S5408 is repeatedly executed. Thereby, the opening / closing operation of the variable prize device 30 is repeatedly executed until the actual number of times of opening reaches the set number of times of opening (2 times).

  When the actual number of times of opening at the small hit reaches the set number of times of opening (step S5413: Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5414.

  Step S5414, Step S5412: In this case, the main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the end process when the release counter is reset (= 0).

  Step S5408: Then, the main control CPU 72 resets the winning ball counter and returns to the variable winning device management process. As a result, when the main control CPU 72 next executes the variable winning device management process, the end process is selected this time.

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

  Step S5502: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the value of the big hit flag (01H) is set, and if the value of the big hit flag is set (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5503. To do.

  Step S5503, Step S5504: In this case, the main control CPU 72 resets the big hit flag (00H). As a result, the big hit gaming state ends on the control processing of the main control CPU 72. In addition, the main control CPU 72 deletes “big hit” from the internal state flag and declares the end of the major role as the internal state in the control processing.

Step S5505: The main control CPU 72 deletes the continuous operation number command here.
Step S5506: Next, the main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the value (01H) of the probability variation function operation flag is set. This flag is set in the big hit other setting process (step S2414 in FIG. 17) during the previous special symbol fluctuation pre-processing.

  Step S5508: When the value of the probability variation function operation flag is set (step S5506: Yes), the main control CPU 72 sets the probability variation number (for example, about 10,000 times). The set value of the probability variation number is stored, for example, in the probability variation counter area of the RAM 76 and becomes the above-described number cut counter value. The probability variation number set here is the upper limit number of times that the variation of the special symbol (internal lottery) is performed in a high probability state in the subsequent games. However, if a huge number of times such as 10,000 is set as described above, there is almost no chance that the non-winning will continue so far (the winning probability at the time of high probability is, for example, 1/39 to 1/39) The degree of probability) will continue until the next winning. On the other hand, when a substantial upper limit is set in the high probability state, the probability variation number is set to a realistic number (for example, about 10 times) (so-called number cut probability change). If the value of the probability variation function activation flag is not set (step S5506: No), the main control CPU 72 does not execute step S5508.

  Step S5510: Next, the main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the value of the time reduction function operation flag (01H) is set. This flag is also set in the big hit other setting process (step S2414 in FIG. 17) during the previous special symbol fluctuation pre-processing.

  Step S5512: If the value of the time reduction function operation flag (variable time reduction function operation flag) is set (step S5510: Yes), the main control CPU 72 determines the number of time reductions (for example, about 100 times or about 10,000 times). Set. The value of the set time reduction count is stored in the time count area of the RAM 76 as described above. The number of times of time reduction set here is the upper limit number of times to shorten the variation time of the special symbol in subsequent games. If the value of the time shortening function activation flag is not set (step S5510: No), the main control CPU 72 does not execute step S5512.

  Step S5514: The main control CPU 72 generates a state designation command based on various flags. Specifically, a state designation command representing “normal” is generated as the gaming state when the big hit flag is reset or the big game ends. If the high-probability state function activation flag is set, a state designation command indicating “high probability” is generated as the internal state, and if the time reduction function activation flag is set, the internal state is “reduced time”. A state designation command representing “medium” is generated. These state designation commands are transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process.

  The procedure so far is a big hit, but in the case of a big hit (step S5502: No), the following procedure is executed.

  Steps S5520 and S5522: In the case of a small hit, the main control CPU 72 resets the value of the small hit flag (00H) and deletes “small hit” from the internal state flag. In the case of small hits, the internal condition device does not operate in particular, so such a procedure is merely for the purpose of erasing the flag.

  Step S5516: In any case, after the above procedure, the main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination in the special winning opening opening pattern setting process.

  Step S5518: The main control CPU 72 sets the jump destination in the execution selection process (step S1000 in FIG. 16) in the special symbol game process to the special symbol change pre-process. When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the variable winning device management process.

[Operation example of effect image and memory number effect device unit]
Next, the effect image actually displayed on the liquid crystal display 42 in the pachinko machine 1 will be described with some examples. As described above, when the big hit internal lottery is performed in the pachinko machine 1, the variation pattern (variation time) is determined under the control of the main control CPU 72, and the variation display by the first special symbol and the second special symbol is performed. (Design display means). However, as described above, the first special symbol and the second special symbol itself are lighted and blinked by 7-segment LEDs, so that they have poor appeal. Therefore, in the pachinko machine 1, the variable display effect using the effect symbol is performed as described above.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the memory number effect device unit 41 is installed adjacent to the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42, and the memory number effect device unit 41 cooperates with the liquid crystal display 42 to produce an operation. It can be performed. The memory number effect device unit 41 is used, for example, for the effect of transmitting the total memory number obtained by adding the current first special symbol operation memory number and the second special symbol operation memory number to the player in an easily understandable manner. The stored number effect device unit 41 is also used when executing the special zone effect (special period effect) when the total stored number reaches a specified number (for example, 8).

  The effect designs include, for example, a left effect symbol, a middle effect symbol, and a right effect symbol, which are displayed side by side on the left, middle, and right on the screen of the liquid crystal display 42 (see FIG. 1). ). Each effect design is a design of a picture card with a character attached together with the numbers “1” to “9”, for example. Among these, for the left effect symbol, a symbol row is arranged in ascending order of “1” to “9”, and for the middle effect symbol and the right effect symbol, the numbers are “9” to “1”. ”Are arranged in descending order. Such a symbol sequence is variably displayed so as to flow (scroll) in the vertical direction in the left region, middle region, and right region on the screen.

  FIG. 31 is a continuous diagram showing an example of an effect image corresponding to the change display and stop display of special symbols. In addition, here, an example of the rendering operation corresponding to the total memory number performed using the memory number rendering device unit 41 is also shown. In the following drawings, the reference numerals of the liquid crystal display 42 and the memory number effect device unit 41 (including the logo display body 41a and the memory display body 41b) are omitted in order to prevent the drawings from becoming complicated. It shall be.

  The effect image represents an example of a change display effect and a stop display effect that are performed using the effect symbol with respect to the variation of the special symbol at the time of non-winning. This variable display effect is performed between the start of the variable display of the special symbol (here, the first special symbol, but may be the second special symbol) and the stop display (including the fixed stop). It corresponds to a series of productions. The stop display effect is an effect that represents that the special symbol is stopped and displayed and the result of the internal lottery at that time is a combination of the effect symbols.

  Moreover, about the memory | storage number production | presentation apparatus unit 41, an example of the production | generation operation | movement matched with the total memory number which increases / decreases during a game is shown. The memorized number effect device unit 41 can execute an effect operation corresponding to the current total memorized number (1 to 8), for example, by changing the number of lighting of the memory display body 41b according to the total memorized number. . In addition, the memory | storage number production | presentation apparatus unit 41 can represent that there is no working memory number about either the 1st special symbol or the 2nd special symbol by making all the memory display bodies 41b into a light extinction state, for example.

  Here, before explaining the specific contents of the control processing, the basic flow of the change display effect and stop display effect for each change employed in the present embodiment will be described. An example of the presentation operation corresponding to the increase / decrease change of the total memory number during the game will also be described.

[Before change display]
FIG. 31A: For example, in a state before the first special symbol starts to fluctuate (a state in which the demonstration effect is not being performed), a row of three effect symbols is displayed large on the screen of the liquid crystal display 42. ing. At this time, in accordance with the stop display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol, the effect symbol is also stopped.

  For the memory number effect device unit 41, for example, by turning on the memory display body 41b corresponding to the numbers “1” to “4” (the others are turned off), the current total memory number is “4”. Can be communicated to the player. That is, the number of lighting of the memory display body 41b is the sum of the number of operating memories of the first special symbol and the second special symbol (the number of displays of the first special symbol operating memory lamp 34a and the second special symbol operating memory lamp 35a). The number of lighting is increased or decreased in conjunction with the change in the number of working memories during the game.

  The memory display body 41b is lit and displayed in the order in which the operation memory of the first special symbol or the operation memory of the second special symbol is acquired, and the lighting position is not particularly different for each symbol. That is, in the example of FIG. 31A, the four memory display bodies 41b are lit and displayed. In this case, for example, two working memories of the first special symbol and the second special symbol are alternately arranged, for a total of four. (Total storage number display effect execution means). Although not particularly shown here, the memory display body 41b of the memory corresponding to the memory of the first special symbol and the memory corresponding to the memory of the second special symbol in the total memory number are mutually connected. A difference may be provided in the lighting color.

  Although not shown, it is assumed that the fourth symbol is displayed at the lower part of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42, for example, during the variation display of the effect symbol. The fourth symbol is a “fourth effect symbol” that follows the left, middle, and right effect symbols, and is displayed in a variable manner in synchronism with the effect symbol. Note that the fourth symbol is simply a simple mark (for example, a “□” figure) with a color, and for example, a variable display can be expressed by changing its display color. The fourth symbol is displayed corresponding to the first special symbol and the second special symbol, respectively.

  In the stop display state at the time of disconnection, the fourth symbol is stopped and displayed in a mode corresponding to the disconnection (for example, white display color). This is to objectively clarify that the stop display effect is correctly performed and the pachinko machine 1 is operating normally. Therefore, if the result of the internal lottery is actually “2 round big hit” or “15 round big hit” instead of “out of”, the 4th pattern is displayed in a manner corresponding to them (for example, red display color or green display color). Is stopped.

[Variable display production start]
FIG. 31B: For example, in synchronization with the start of the change of the first special symbol, the change display effect is started by the scroll change of the three symbol rows on the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42 (the symbol effect). Execution means). In other words, in synchronization with the start of fluctuation of the first special symbol, the display of the left effect symbol, the middle effect symbol, and the right effect symbol is scrolled (flowed) in the vertical direction on the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42 so as to change the display. Production begins.

  In addition, with respect to the stored number effect device unit 41, the total stored number is decreased by 1 before the start of the change, and the memory display body 41b representing the number “4” is changed to the unlit state. After the start of fluctuation, the memory display body 41b representing the numbers “1” to “3” is lit up. Thereby, it can be easily communicated to the player that “the total number of memories has been consumed (decreased) with the start of fluctuation”.

  Although not particularly shown here, when the total memory number decreases due to the start of fluctuation, for example, the memory display 41b representing the number “1” is first turned off, and the remaining numbers “2” to “4”. After the lighting state of the memory display body 41b representing is maintained for a moment (for example, 0.5 seconds), the memory display bodies 41b representing the numbers “2”, “3”, and “4” are sequentially turned off. It is also possible to perform an effect operation such that the memory display bodies 41b respectively representing the numbers “1”, “2”, and “3” are sequentially lit and displayed. As a result, it is possible to visually convey to the player that “the oldest working memory has been consumed for the variable display, and the remaining working memory has been moved (shifted) in the order of memory”. it can.

  In the figure, the change display of the effect symbol is simply indicated by a downward arrow. Although not shown here, during the variable display, each effect symbol is displayed in a transparent state (transparent display), and at this time, an image (background image) serving as the background of the effect symbol is displayed in the display screen. It is assumed that it is displayed in a state where it can be easily seen. Such a background image can be selected according to the stay mode in the production. The stay mode is classified into, for example, “normal mode” corresponding to the normal gaming state, “high-accuracy mode” corresponding to the “high probability state”, “time reduction (chance) mode” corresponding to the “time reduction state”, and the like. be able to. Although not specifically shown here, a mode in which a notice effect is performed by displaying an image of a character, an item, or the like on the display screen, for example, may be used.

  Although not shown, during the variation display of the production symbol, the fourth symbol is variably displayed on the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42, and the fourth symbol expresses the variation display by changing its display color. doing.

[Reach condition occurs]
In FIG. 31, (C): For example, when a certain amount of time (about half of the fluctuation time) has elapsed, the left effect design first stops changing, and after a short time (for example, 1-2 seconds later), the right effect design is followed. The effect that stops the fluctuation is performed. In this example, the left effect symbol and the right effect symbol representing the number “6” are stopped at the middle position of the screen. Note that the medium effect design is still changing. As a result, the effect symbol is displayed as a combination of “6” − (during change) − “6”, and the “reach state” occurs in the effect.

[Total memory increase effect]
In addition, since game balls are continuously launched during this time, winning to the right start winning opening 26 and the variable start winning apparatus 28 occurs alternately through the distribution device 200, for example, the total number of working memories increases by two. Suppose that it changes to five. In this case, two new memory display bodies 41b are lit and displayed in the memory number effect device unit 41, and an effect (total memory number increase effect) indicating that the total memory number has increased to five is performed. In this example, the memory display bodies 41b corresponding to the numbers “4” and “5” are additionally lit.

[Reach production]
In FIG. 31, (D): After the reach state occurs, an effect is performed as if the medium effect symbol slowly flows from the numbers “3” to “4” and then “5”. In addition, with respect to the left and right effect symbols that are tempered, for example, the effect of emitting an aura image (displaying an image similar to a flame) from the characters of each effect symbol is performed. At this time, depending on the color of the aura (blue, yellow, green, red, gold, iridescent, etc.), the reliability of this change (expectation of jackpot; the first special symbol or the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in a winning manner. It is also possible to suggest the possibility of being

[Total memory increase effect]
When the above reach effect is selected, for example, “usually deviation reach change pattern” is selected as the current change pattern, and accordingly, a change time appropriate for executing the reach effect (for example, 20 to 25 seconds). Sec.) Is set. Since the game ball is continuously launched during this time, winning to the right start winning port 26 and the variable start winning device 28 occurs alternately through the distribution device 200, for example, the total number of operating memories is one more. It has increased to 6 pieces. As a result, in the memory number effect device unit 41, one additional memory display body 41b is lit and displayed, and an effect (total memory number increase effect) indicating that the total memory number has increased to six is performed. Yes. In this example, a memory display body 41b corresponding to the numeral “6” is further lit and displayed.

[Stop display effect (result display effect)]
In FIG. 31, (E): The end of the fluctuation time is approached, and the medium effect symbol stops changing. In this example, the effect symbol representing the number “6” passes through the middle position (tempered line) of the display screen and falls to the bottom of the screen, and the medium effect symbol representing the numeral “7” is stopped at the middle position. Is displayed. In this case, the combination of the production symbols is “6”-“7”-“6” break (reach break), and unfortunately, this change expresses on the production that it was not a big hit. Yes.

[Total memory increase effect]
Further, as the game balls are continuously launched, the total memory number is further increased by 1 and changed to 7. Thereby, one more memory display body 41b is lit and displayed in the memory number effect device unit 41, and an effect (total memory number increase effect) indicating that the total memory number has increased to seven is performed. In this example, the memory display body 41b corresponding to the number “7” is additionally lit and displayed, and only the memory display body 41b corresponding to the number “8” is in the off state.

  FIG.32 and FIG.33 is a continuous figure which shows a series of flows before the execution about the example of the effect performed on condition that the total memory | storage number reached | attained the regulation number (for example, 8 pieces). Hereinafter, it demonstrates along the flow of production.

[Increased memory number]
FIG. 32 (F): For example, a case is assumed in which the total stored number is increased to 7 (before the specified number) during the reach effect (out of reach reach) shown in FIG. In this case, the lighting state of the memory display body 41b corresponding to the numbers “1” to “7” is more emphasized (for example, the luminance is increased), and an effect that gives a noticeable impression is executed. In addition to the scroll display of the left, middle, and right effects symbols during the variable display, for example, a memory display that displays the number “8” by displaying a marker (a group of Δ marks) at the right end portion of the display screen. An effect that draws attention to the body 41b is executed. The effect of this mode is to transmit a message “Let's increase the total memory number to 8” to the player, and to reconfirm the consciousness of launching the game ball (increase the memory number) Promotional production). As a result, the player can have a sense of expectation that “something may happen if one more is won”, and can stimulate a search for the game.

[Direction when total memory reaches 8]
In FIG. 32 (G): When the total storage number reaches a specified number (for example, 8), all the memory display bodies 41b are turned on, and the logo display body 41a is also turned on. Is called. In the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42, for example, the background image is darkened (blacked out), and an effect is given as if light is emitted from the position of the logo display body 41a. At this time, the memory number effect device unit 41 as a whole, including the logo display body 41a and the memory display body 41b, emits light strongly. By performing such an aspect of the effect (the effect when the specified number is reached), the player is given a certain sense of achievement that “the total number of memories has been increased to the maximum”, and thereafter It can attract interest in the outcome.

  In FIG. 32 (H): After that, for example, the first special symbol (or the second special symbol) is stopped and displayed, so that the stop display effect by the effect symbol is performed in the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42. . Further, the light emission operation of the memory number effect device unit 41 is continued.

[Startable / unusable effect (introduction)]
In FIG. 32, (I): In the first change after the total stored number reaches a specified number (for example, 8), the start availability effect is executed at the beginning of the change. This start / impossibility effect is also a precursor to a special zone effect (special period effect) that is executed within a period of up to the eighth change from here.
Specifically, for example, in the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42, a heart-shaped object (object as an image display) appears from a total of eight memory display bodies 41b, and each screen draws a thread. A state in which eight heart-shaped objects are arranged in a ring shape while flying in the center is displayed. At this time, for example, at the upper left corner position of the display screen, a variable display effect is performed using three reduced effect symbols. In addition, the fourth symbol (not shown) is also variably displayed.

[Continued introduction part: see Fig. 33]
In FIG. 33 (J): During the same fluctuation (the first fluctuation after reaching the specified number), eight heart-shaped objects arranged in a ring shape on the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42 circulate around. The state is displayed. Note that the three effect symbols that have been continuously reduced are being displayed in a variable manner (the same applies to the fourth symbol).

  In FIG. 33 (K): When the fluctuation time approaches the middle period, an image representing the appearance of the logo display body 41a appears inside the eight heart-shaped objects that form a ring, and the whole of these images increases in brightness. Is displayed. At this stage, for example, among the three reduced effect symbols, the variation of the left effect symbol is stopped (the other two are changing).

[Branch by main part]
After this, the production shifts from the production introduction part to the main part, and a branch occurs in the production flow. Of these, one is a “success effect (first mode)” and the other is a “failure effect (second mode)”. In either case, for example, the current variation time (the first variation after reaching the specified number) is executed from the middle period to the final period. Each will be described below.

[Successful production (first mode)]
In FIG. 33 (L): First, “success effect” will be described. In the “successful production”, the eight heart-shaped objects that have circulated until then stop and decorate the periphery of the image of the logo display body 41a to constitute a certain design (for example, an emblem). Here, such a design is referred to as a “logo emblem”. In the display screen, the character information of “complete” is displayed with the “logo emblem” in between, and a radial ray centered on the “logo emblem” is displayed on the back. By executing such an aspect of the production, the player is strongly impressed by the fact that “the logo emblem has been successfully completed on the production”, and further stimulates the exploration of the subsequent flow. Can do.

[Failure production (second mode)]
In FIG. 33 (M): In the other “failure effect”, the eight heart-shaped objects that have been circulated until then disappear from the display screen, and the image of the logo display body 41a also disappears. A heart-shaped figure that has been defeated in two is displayed larger. In the display screen, character information of “failure” is largely displayed across the “torn heart shape figure”. By performing the production in this manner, the player is made aware that “the logo emblem could not be completed on the production (failed)”, and a new motivation for the next success Can be made. In this case, the special zone effect is not executed after this, and the flow of the large effect ends here.

  On the other hand, when the “successful production” is executed, the following special zone production is started. However, in terms of control, “success effect” is executed when it is decided to execute the special zone effect internally, and “failure effect” when it is decided not to execute the special zone effect. Will be executed.

[Special zone production (Special period production)]
FIG. 34 is a continuous diagram showing an example of a special zone effect that is executed during the special symbol variation display and stop display multiple times.

  In FIG. 34 (i): For example, at the time of the current fluctuation stop (at the first fluctuation stop after reaching the specified number), for example, a female character is displayed up on the display screen, and an effect of showing a smiling expression is performed. . In addition, the character information of “Eight zone entry” is displayed in the display screen. With such an aspect of the production, it is possible to clearly impress the player that “the player has entered a special zone (eight zone) on the production”, and to attract a great interest in the subsequent game. .

[After the second change]
In FIG. 34, (ii): From the second and subsequent fluctuations after reaching the specified number, for example, a special frame image (in this example, a floral border) is displayed on the periphery (four sides) of the display screen. By displaying such a frame image, it is possible to clearly make the player aware that “the special zone is being produced”. Although not particularly shown here, there is a possibility that a big hit will be caused by any of the maximum seven fluctuations performed thereafter due to a difference in the display mode (for example, color tone, eye brightness) of the frame image (reliability level). ) May be suggested. In addition, since the total stored number has decreased to six with the start of fluctuation, an effect (total stored number decreasing effect) that reduces to the number of lighting of the memory display body 41b is performed.

[Abbreviated fluctuation according to the total memory number]
34 (iii), (iv): Since the second fluctuation after reaching the specified number is a normal fluctuation (usually a deviation fluctuation pattern), a large production movement (reach notice, etc.) does not occur here. The effect symbol stops within the shortened variation time (first shortened variation time) as shown in FIG. As for the subsequent fluctuations, when the fluctuation pattern normally corresponds to the deviation fluctuation pattern, similarly, the fluctuation display effect and the stop display effect that are shortened according to the total stored number are performed.

[When jackpot reach changes (when a specific reach fluctuation pattern is determined)]
Next, FIG. 35 is a continuous diagram showing the flow of reach production executed during the special zone production. In this example, among the working memories included in the prescribed number (for example, 8) as the total memory number, for example, the third working memory in the memory order corresponds to the winning of “15 round probability variation symbol”. However, the working memory corresponding to the winning may be the first or second (or fourth or later).

  In the following reach production, the first special symbol is “15 round normal symbol” after the first special symbol display device 34 (or the second special symbol display device 35 may be used), after the variation display by the variation pattern at the time of the big hit. (E.g. 7-segment LED “self”, “yo”, “mouth”, “巳”, “F”, “E”, “L”, “Γ”, etc.) The In addition, in FIG. 35, each production | presentation symbol is simplified and shown only as the number. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along the flow of production.

[Variable display effects]
FIG. 35 (A): Fluctuating display effects of the left effect symbol, the middle effect symbol, and the right effect symbol on the screen of the liquid crystal display 42 substantially in synchronization with the start of the change of the first special symbol (or the second special symbol). The point where is started is the same as before. However, in order to clearly indicate that the current state is “during special zone production”, the frame image is continuously displayed on the periphery of the display screen. In addition, although not shown here, for example, a background image unique to “during special zone production” is displayed at this time.

  Further, since the total number of operating memories has decreased to two, the two memory display bodies 41b representing the numbers “1” and “2” are lit on, and the other memory display bodies 41b are turned off. However, the logo display 41a is lit up.

[Logo body notice effect]
FIG. 35B: Next, in the relatively early stage of the variable display effect, the entire display screen is blacked out, and an image effect is performed as if a light beam is emitted from the logo display 41a.
FIG. 35 (C): The logo display body 41a falls so as to swing to the center position in front of the display screen, and at the same time, the image effect is as if radial rays are emitted from behind. Done. Such an effect can give a visual impact to the player and improve the expectation of the flow of the subsequent variable display effect. The logo display body 41a can be operated using the logo display body motor 194 described above.

[Reach condition occurs]
35 (D), (E): The logo display body 41a returns to the initial position, and the right effect design stops in the display screen following the stop of the left effect design. At this time, a reach state of “7” − (fluctuating) − “7” occurs in the combination of effect symbols, and an effect of outputting a sound such as “reach!” Is performed. In addition, in this case, since the number “7” is aligned, it becomes a big hit, so it is possible to make the player have various tensions such as “probability or loss”, as well as whether or not the lottery is a success. .

[Preliminary notice after reach occurs (first time)]
In FIG. 35 (F): Following the occurrence of the reach state, for example, a radial flash beam is displayed on the background of the draped effect design, and the character information of “Chance!” Is displayed at the center position, and the reach occurs. Later notice effect (first) is performed. By executing such a visually noticeable announcement effect after the occurrence of reach, it is possible to obtain an effect of making the player have a greater sense of expectation.

[Progress of reach production]
In FIG. 35 (G): Following the announcement effect after the first reach, for example, images representing the numbers “2” to “8” are displayed in a three-dimensional column on the screen. There is an effect in which numerical images are erased from the screen in the order of “2”, “3”, “4”. Such an effect is performed for the purpose of suggesting (impliciting) or reminding the player that the number “7” remains without being erased. If the number “5” is erased and “6” remains in front of the screen, it is “out of”. If the number “7” is erased, it is “out of”, but the number “6”. ”Is erased, and the number“ 7 ”remains in front of the screen without being erased, it means“ probable big hit ”. Therefore, during this time, the numbers “2”, “3”, “4”,... Are erased in order, and as the number “6” approaches, the player's tension and expectations The feeling will also increase. After this, for example, if up to the number “5” is erased on the screen, the next time the number “6” is finally erased, the possibility of a “probable big hit” is finally increased. A feeling increases at a stretch.

[Preliminary notice after the occurrence of reach (second time)]
In FIG. 35 (H): When the reach production is approaching the final stage, the image of the character is suddenly displayed on the screen as if it was split into a close-up, and the content that the character emits some dialogue (or silently) (The content may be that of smiling). At this time, for example, the content of the reach effect is a development that “if the number“ 6 ”is deleted, the probability of a probable big hit of“ 7 ”-“ 7 ”-“ 7 ”increases” ”. Therefore, by causing a character image to appear greatly at this timing, an effect of giving the player a sense of expectation that “may be a big hit” is obtained.

[Stop display effect (result display effect)]
In FIG. 35 (I): The last medium effect symbol stops substantially in synchronization with the stop display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol. In this example, because the winning symbol internally corresponds to “15 round probability variation symbol”, the effect symbol (the shape is a heart shape) representing the number “7” on the effect is stopped and displayed at the center of the screen. ing.

  In FIG. 35 (J): For example, the stop display effect is also displayed for the stop display effect as the effect symbol substantially in synchronization with the fixed stop display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol. The effect design fixed stop display is performed, for example, in a state where the left, middle, and right effect symbols are restored to their initial sizes. By performing such confirmation stop display, the player can be informed that the final winning type has been confirmed in the production. In this case, the fourth symbol is stopped and displayed in a mode (for example, red display color) corresponding to “15 rounds probable big hit”.

  Here, the case of “15 rounds probable big hit” is taken as an example, but if the result of the internal lottery is “15 rounds normal big hit” as described above, for example, it is reached with an effect design representing the number “6”, etc. A situation occurs, and after the reach production, the left, middle, and right production symbols are stopped and displayed in a big hit mode composed of the same kind of combinations (for example, “6”-“6”-“6”). In this case, the fourth symbol is stopped and displayed in a mode (for example, green display color) corresponding to “15 round normal big hit”.

  In addition, if the result of the internal lottery is non-winning, the first special symbol or the second special symbol is stopped and displayed as the off symbol, so that the staging display effect is also performed in a manner of deviation in the same manner. Execution means). In this case, by displaying the numbers “6” and “8” other than “7” in the center of the screen, unfortunately, an effect that informs that the current change has not been a big hit is performed. Such an effect is executed as an “out of reach reach effect”. Even in this case, since the variation pattern corresponds to the “specific off-reach reach variation pattern”, it is a specific reach variation that occurs during the special zone effect.

[Summary of special zone production]
As described above, after the total number of memories reaches a specified number (for example, 8), the special zone effect is started through the above-mentioned successful effect ((L) in FIG. 33), and the subsequent seven times are executed. It is possible to notify the player in advance that a specific reach effect (a big hit reach effect or a disappointing reach effect) will occur during the change. Thereby, a player's expectation can be maintained during the special zone effect, and a tension can be maintained during the game (fluctuation) until the specific reach effect occurs.

  In addition, the effect (FIGS. 32 and 33) for determining whether or not such a special zone effect is started is executed on the condition that the total stored number has reached a specified number (for example, 8). , Make the player aware that “the total number of memories will be a specified number (for example, 8)” from the normal game, and “the total number of memories to a specified number (for example, 8) in order to see special zone effects” The motivation of “Let's increase” can be given.

  The above special zone effects are executed on the basis that a specific reach fluctuation pattern (big hit / loss) exists in the working memory so far when the total number of memories reaches a specified number (for example, 8). Is something that can be done. Therefore, even if the total stored number reaches a specified number (for example, 8), if there is no specific reach fluctuation pattern (big hit / out) in the working memory so far, the special zone effect is executed in this embodiment. Can not do it. Note that whether or not the specific reach variation pattern exists in the working memory can be determined based on the variation pattern destination determination command generated in the acquisition effect determination processing. However, in the present embodiment, for example, the following effects are executed as a benefit on effects for increasing the total stored number to a specified number (for example, 8) in this case.

[Direction bonus production]
FIG. 36 is a continuous diagram showing a flow of an effect example executed when the special zone effect cannot be started even when the total stored number reaches a specified number (for example, 8). Hereinafter, it demonstrates along the flow of an example of an effect.

[Startable / unusable effect (introduction)]
36 (A): Even in the case where the specific reach fluctuation pattern does not exist in the working memory, in the first fluctuation after the total memory number reaches the specified number (for example, 8), the start / not possible effect at the beginning of the fluctuation. Is executed. The effect mode in this case is the same as when the specific reach variation pattern exists in the working memory ((I) in FIG. 32). The three reduced effect symbols are variably displayed at the upper left corner position in the display screen (the same applies to the fourth symbol).

[Main part (third aspect)]
In FIG. 36 (B): Eight heart-shaped objects arranged in a ring shape in the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42 are swirled during the same fluctuation as above (first fluctuation after reaching the specified number). The state of gathering in one place is displayed. Note that the three reduced effect symbols are being displayed in a variable manner (the same applies to the fourth symbol).

  FIG. 36 (C): Subsequently, a state in which all eight heart-shaped objects circulate in a state where they are gathered in one place is displayed.

[Eight zone points granted]
In FIG. 36 (D): The eight heart-shaped objects that have been orbiting at one place so far disappear from the display screen, and a heart-shaped figure is displayed in a large size instead. In the display screen, the character information “EZ point 2000” is displayed in the “heart shape graphic”, and the character information “GET!” Is displayed beside it. By executing such an effect, the player was made aware that “some point was given on the effect” and increased the total number of memories to a specified number (for example, 8). You can feel a sense of accomplishment. In this case, the number of points given so far is displayed cumulatively at the lower left corner position in the display screen.

[Game Flow]
FIG. 37 is a game flow diagram showing the flow of production that occurs on the condition that the total stored number has reached the specified number. Hereinafter, the game flow realized in this embodiment will be described in order.

[G01: Check total memory number]
During a normal game, the condition whether or not the total stored number of the first special symbol working memory number and the second special symbol working memory number has reached a specified number (for example, 8) is constantly confirmed. This confirmation is continuously repeated until the total storage number reaches a specified number (for example, 8) (No).

[G02: When the total number of memories reaches the specified number]
When the total stored number reaches a specified number (for example, 8) (G01: Yes), for example, an effect of generating a special winning sound is performed on the effect.

[G03: Start of fluctuation after reaching the specified number]
After the total memory number reaches a specified number (for example, 8), the variable display is started using the 8 oldest (oldest) working memory.

[G04: Conditional branch]
For the remaining seven working memories excluding the working memory consumed by the first fluctuation, the flow of the subsequent effects depends on whether or not the variation pattern destination determination command (the previous determination result) satisfies the inrush condition of the special zone effect. Will be different.

[G05, G06: When the entry conditions are satisfied]
If the special zone production entry condition is satisfied (G04: Yes), the success production is executed through the eight zone development preparation production (startable / unusable production), and the production enters the eight zone as it is (the special zone production start). The eight zone development preparation effect here corresponds to the effect shown in FIGS. 32 and 33, and the successful effect corresponds to the effect (L) in FIG. The eight zone corresponds to the special zone effect (FIG. 34).

[G07, G08: Big hit]
When there is a big hit first determination result in the working memory, a big hit reach variation effect (FIG. 35) occurs at the time of the fluctuation corresponding to the first determination result, and then the big hit state (special game state) is entered.

[G09: When disconnected]
On the other hand, when there is a specific determination result of fluctuation deviation reach pattern (fluctuation pattern destination determination command) in the working memory, a specific deviation reach fluctuation effect occurs at the time of fluctuation corresponding to the destination determination result, and the special zone effect ends. To do. Note that, in the non-specific reach change effect, for example, in (I) and (J) in FIG. 35, the medium effect symbol is other than “7”.

[G10, G11: When entry conditions are not satisfied]
On the other hand, if the special zone production entry condition is not satisfied (G04: No), it will occur in the same manner until the introduction of the eight zone development preparation production (startable / unavailable production). It will be a failure. Eight zone entry failure here corresponds to the effect shown in (M) of FIG. In this case, the special zone effect is ended without being started (however, the normal game itself can be continued).

[G12, G13: When entry conditions are not satisfied]
Similarly, there is a pattern in which the entry condition for the special zone effect is not satisfied (G04: No), but there is a pattern that does not progress to the failure effect (G11) in the game flow. In this case, an effect of giving eight zone points on the effect is performed, and an effect added to the points acquired so far is performed (FIG. 36). In this case as well, the special zone effect is ended without being started (however, the normal game itself can be continued).

  As described above, in the present embodiment, it is understood that when the total memory number is increased to a specified number (for example, 8) during the normal game, the game flow thereafter is greatly developed and variously changed. Thereby, it is possible to keep the player always aware of “increasing the total memory number to a specified number (for example, 8)” from the normal game, and maintain the motivation for the game.

  In addition, when the total number of memories is increased to a specified number (for example, 8), an effect (special zone effect or point giving effect) related to the expected value of jackpot based on the result of the previous determination always occurs. The player can be given a special performance privilege (profit) for accumulating a large amount of working memory. As a result, it is possible to stir up the desire to further increase the total number of memories to a specified number (for example, 8), and to prevent a decrease in interest.

  Next, an example of a control method for specifically realizing the above effects will be described. Progressive display effects such as the above-mentioned variable display effects, reach effects, pre-reach notice effects, memory number display effects, pre-read notice effects, etc. Zone effects (eight zone effects), point grant effects, and the like are all controlled through the following control processing.

[Production control processing]
FIG. 38 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of effect control processing executed by the effect control CPU 126. This effect control process is executed, for example, in a timer interrupt process (interrupt management process) separately from a reset start (main) process (not shown). The effect control CPU 126 generates a timer interrupt at a predetermined interrupt cycle (for example, a period of several tens of μs to several ms) during execution of the reset start process, and executes the timer interrupt process.

  The effect control process includes command reception process (step S400), zone effect management process (step S401), operation memory effect management process (step S402), effect symbol management process (step S403), display output process (step S404), lamp This includes a subroutine group of drive processing (step S406), acoustic drive processing (step S408), effect random number update processing (step S410), and other processing (step S412). Hereinafter, the basic flow of the effect control process will be described along each process.

  Step S400: In the command receiving process, the effect control CPU 126 receives an effect command transmitted from the main control CPU 72. The effect control CPU 126 analyzes the received commands and stores them in the command buffer area of the RAM 130 according to type. The command for the effect transmitted from the main control CPU 72 includes, for example, a special figure destination determination effect command, a (special symbol) effect command when the operating memory number increases, a (special symbol) effect command when the operating memory number decreases, a start port Winning tone control command, demonstration effect command, lottery result command, variation pattern command, variation start command, stop symbol command, symbol stop command, state designation command, number of rounds command, error notification command, jackpot end effect command, variation pattern There are destination judgment commands and the like.

  Step S401: In the zone production management process, the production control CPU 126 determines whether or not the total stored number has reached a specified number (for example, 8), and manages the zone production flag on production according to the result. To do. The specific contents of the zone effect management process will be described later with reference to another drawing.

  Step S402: In the working memory effect management process, the effect control CPU 126 controls the execution of the total memory number increase effect and the total memory number decrease effect using the memory number effect device unit 41. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 may control execution of a memory number increase effect, a memory number decrease effect, and a prefetch notice effect using, for example, a marker image. The contents of the working memory effect management process will be further described later with reference to another drawing.

  Step S403: In the effect symbol management process, the effect control CPU 126 controls the contents of the variable display effect and the result display effect using the effect symbols, and controls the effect contents during the opening / closing operation of the variable winning device 30. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects effect patterns of various notice effects (notice effect before reach occurrence, effect after reach, etc.). The contents of the effect symbol management process will be further described later with reference to another drawing.

  Step S404: In the display output process, the effect control CPU 126 controls the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146) with basic control information of the effect contents (for example, the number of working memories of each of the first special symbol and the second special symbol). , An operation memory effect pattern number, a prefetch notice effect pattern number, a change effect pattern number, a change notice effect number, a background pattern number, etc.). Thereby, the effect display control device 144 (the display control CPU 146 and the VDP 152) controls the display operation by the liquid crystal display 42 based on the instructed effect content (effect executing means).

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

  Step S408: In the next sound drive process, the effect control CPU 126 sends the effect contents (for example, BGM, sound data, etc. during the variable display effect, during the reach effect, during the mode transition effect, during the jackpot effect) to the sound drive circuit 134. Instruct. Thereby, the sound according to the production content is output from the speakers 54, 55, and 56. The effect control CPU 126 outputs a control signal related to the stored number effect device unit 41 to the lamp drive circuit 132. In response to this, the lamp drive circuit 132 turns on the logo display lamp 190 and the memory display lamp 192 based on the control signal, and drives the logo display motor 194 and the memory display motor 196.

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

  Step S412: In other processing, for example, when an effect movable body is provided separately from the stored number effect device unit 41, the effect control CPU 126 outputs a control signal to the movable body drive IC. Although not particularly illustrated, the movable body is operated by a driving source such as a solenoid or a stepping motor, and produces an effect in synchronism with the display of an image by the liquid crystal display 42 or independently. These solenoids, stepping motors, and other drive sources can be connected to, for example, the panel illumination board 138 in FIG.

  Through the above-described effect control process, the effect control CPU 126 can comprehensively control the effect contents in the pachinko machine 1.

[Zone production management processing]
Next, the contents of the zone effect management process executed in the effect control process will be described. FIG. 39 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the zone effect management process.

  Step S800: First, the effect control CPU 126 checks whether or not the current total stored number has reached a specified number. This confirmation is made, for example, by a value (first special symbol working memory number) indicated by the first special symbol working memory number command received from the main control CPU 72 and a value (second second) indicated by the second special symbol working memory number command. It can be performed based on the special symbol working memory number). As a result, when the total stored number has reached the specified value (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 next executes step S802.

  Step S802: In this case, the effect control CPU 126 checks whether the “zone effect flag” is “ON” (set). The value of the “zone effect flag” is stored in the flag area of the RAM 130, for example, and the effect control CPU 126 reads the address corresponding to the “zone effect flag” in the flag area and checks the value. If the “zone production flag” is not yet “ON” at this time (No), the production control CPU 126 proceeds to step S804.

  Step S804: Then, the effect control CPU 126 sets the value of the “zone effect flag” (ON = 1) in the flag area. Thereby, selection corresponding to the special zone effect is performed in the subsequent various processes.

  Even if the total stored number has reached a specified number (e.g., 8) (step S800: Yes), if the special zone effect is already being executed, the effect control CPU 126 “zone effect” in the previous step S802. It is confirmed that the “middle flag” is “ON” (Yes), and the process directly returns to the effect control process.

[When the total number of memories has not reached the specified number]
When the zone effect management process is called, if the total stored number has not yet reached the specified number (for example, 8) (step S800: No), the effect control CPU 126 proceeds to step S806. Separately from this, when the total storage number has reached the prescribed number before and the working memory is consumed to become less than the prescribed number (step S800: No), the effect control CPU 126 next proceeds to step S806. However, in this case, since the special zone effect is already being performed, the “zone effect flag” is “ON”.

  Step S806: The effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the “zone effect flag” is also “ON” here. If the special zone effect is not currently being produced, the “zone effect flag” is “OFF” (No), so the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect control process. On the other hand, if the special zone effect is already being performed at this time, the “zone effect flag” is “ON” (Yes), and the effect control CPU 126 proceeds to step S808.

Step S808: In this case, the effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the “zone effect end condition” is satisfied for the currently executed special zone effect. In the present embodiment, for example, when any of the following cases is satisfied, it can be determined that the “zone effect end condition” is satisfied.
(1) A special symbol confirmation stop command has been received after the start of fluctuation for the operation memory corresponding to the fluctuation pattern destination determination command “specific deviation reach fluctuation pattern”.
(2) A special symbol confirmation stop command has been received for the operation memory corresponding to the “big hit reach fluctuation pattern” as the fluctuation pattern destination determination command after the fluctuation starts.

  When it does not correspond to either (1) or (2) above (No), the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect control process. On the other hand, when actually corresponding to either (1) or (2) (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 proceeds to step S810.

  Step S810: In this case, the effect control CPU 126 sets the “zone effect flag” to “OFF” and then returns to the effect control process. As a result, the special zone effect is completed through the following various processes. In the present embodiment, a procedure for setting the “zone effect flag” to “OFF” is provided even during the subsequent zone effect pattern selection process, and therefore, steps S808 and S810 may be omitted if the processes overlap.

[Working memory production management process]
Next, the contents of the action memory effect management process executed following the zone effect management process in the effect control process will be described. FIG. 40 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the working memory effect management process. Hereinafter, the contents will be described along a procedure example.

  Step S700: First, the effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the effect command at the time of increasing the number of working memories has been received from the main control CPU 72. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130, and confirms whether or not the effect command at the time when the number of working memories increases is stored. When it is confirmed that the effect command at the time of increasing the number of working memories is stored (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S702. If it is not possible to confirm that the effect command at the time of increasing the number of operating memories is stored (No), the effect control CPU 126 does not execute step S702.

  Step S702: The effect control CPU 126 executes an effect selection process when the number of working memories increases. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects an effect pattern (lighting pattern of the memory display body lamp 192) for newly lighting the memory display body 41b corresponding to the increased total stored number.

  Step S704: The effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the effect command at the time when the number of working memories decreases is received from the main control CPU 72. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and confirms whether or not the effect command when the number of working memories is reduced is stored. As a result, when the production command when the number of working memories decreases is stored (Yes), the production control CPU 126 executes step S706. If it is not possible to confirm that the effect command at the time when the number of working memories decreases is stored (No), the effect control CPU 126 does not execute step S706.

  Step S706: The effect control CPU 126 executes effect selection processing when the number of working memories decreases. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 turns off the memory display body 41b corresponding to the total stored number before reduction, and turns on the memory display body 41b corresponding to the total stored number after decrease (memory display body lamp 192). Is selected).

  Step S708: Also, the effect control CPU 126 checks whether or not the “zone effect flag” is “ON”, and if it is already “ON” (Yes), executes the next step S710. When the “zone production flag” is not “ON” (No), the production control CPU 126 does not execute step S710.

Step S710: The effect control CPU 126 executes a stored number display effect selection process during zone effect. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects the light emission operation pattern of the unique memorized number effect device unit 41 during the special zone effect. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 34, FIG. 35, etc., a pattern is selected that sets the overall luminance including the lit memory display body 41b and the logo display body 41a higher than normal.
When the above procedure is executed, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect control process (FIG. 38).

[Direction design management processing]
FIG. 41 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the effect symbol management process. The effect symbol management process includes an execution selection process (step S500), an effect symbol change pre-process (step S502), an effect symbol change process (step S504), an effect symbol stop display process (step S506), and a variable winning device operation. This is a configuration including a subroutine group of processing (step S508). Hereinafter, the basic flow of the effect symbol management process will be described along each process.

  Step S500: In the execution selection process, the effect control CPU 126 selects the jump destination of the process to be executed next (any one of steps S502 to S508). For example, the effect control CPU 126 sets the program address of the process to be executed next as the jump destination address, and sets the end of the effect symbol management process in the “jump table” as the return address. Which process is selected as the next jump destination depends on the progress of the processes performed so far. For example, if the situation has not yet started the variation display effect, the effect control CPU 126 selects the effect symbol variation pre-processing (step S502) as the next jump destination. On the other hand, if the effect symbol variation pre-processing has already been completed, the effect control CPU 126 selects the effect symbol variation processing (step S504) as the next jump destination, and if the effect symbol variation in-process has been completed, As a jump destination, the effect symbol stop display in-progress process (step S506) is selected. The variable winning device operating process (step S508) is selected as a jump destination only when the variable winning device management process (step S5000 in FIG. 16) is selected in the main control CPU 72. In this case, steps S502 to S506 are not executed.

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

  Step S504: In the effect symbol changing process, the effect control CPU 126 generates control information instructing the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146) as necessary. For example, when performing an effect using the effect switching button 45 during execution of the variable display effect using the effect symbol, the effect control CPU 126 monitors whether or not the player has operated the effect button, and an effect corresponding to the result is displayed. The control information on the contents (button effect) is instructed to the display control CPU 146.

  Step S506: In the effect symbol stop display process, the effect control CPU 126 controls the contents of the result display effect using the effect symbols and moving images in a manner corresponding to the result of the internal lottery. That is, the effect control CPU 126 instructs the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146) to end the variable display effect and execute the result display effect. In response to this, the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146) ends the variable display effect that has been actually executed within the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42, and executes the result display effect. As a result, the result display effect is executed substantially in synchronization with the stop display of the special symbol, and the result of the internal lottery can be effectively taught (disclosure, notification, notification, etc.) to the player (execution of the symbol effect) means). However, in the present embodiment, the result display effect is executed in a manner similar to or close to the loss when winning two rounds or at a small hit.

  Step S508: In the variable winning device operation process, the effect control CPU 126 controls the contents of the effect during the small hit or the big hit. In this processing, the effect control CPU 126 selects the contents of the prominent effect according to various conditions (for example, winning type). For example, in the case of 15 rounds of promising big hit with a play, the effect control CPU 126 selects a 15-round prominent effect pattern as the effect contents to be displayed on the liquid crystal display 42, and this effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146). To direct. As a result, the image of the big hit effect is displayed on the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42, and the effect contents change as the round progresses.

  Alternatively, in the case of “two round big hit” (excluding the two-round probability variation winning in the high probability state), the effect control CPU 126 performs control to execute the above-described mode transition effect (for example, the effect examples in FIGS. 38 and 39). I do. Further, in the case of “small hit”, the effect control CPU 126 performs control to execute the same effect as the mode transition effect (for example, the effect examples in FIGS. 38 and 39).

[Preliminary design change processing]
FIG. 42 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the above-described effect symbol variation pre-processing. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along the example of a procedure.

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

  Step S602: The effect control CPU 126 executes a demo selection process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects a demonstration effect pattern. The demonstration effect pattern defines the contents of the effect indicating that the pachinko machine 1 is in a so-called customer waiting state.

  When the above procedure is completed, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the last address of the effect symbol management process. Then, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect control process as it is, and controls the contents of the demonstration effect based on the demonstration effect pattern in the subsequent display output process (step S404 in FIG. 38) and lamp driving process (step S406 in FIG. 38). To do.

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

  Step S604: The effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the current fluctuation is out of place (non-winning). Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and confirms whether or not a lottery result command at the time of non-winning is stored. As a result, when it is confirmed that the lottery result command at the time of non-winning is saved (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S612. On the other hand, when it is confirmed that the lottery result command at the time of non-winning is not saved (No), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S606. Note that whether or not the current variation is off can be confirmed based on a variation pattern command or a stop symbol command in addition to the lottery result command. In other words, if the current variation pattern command corresponds to the outlier normal variation or outlier reach variation, it can be determined that the current variation is outlier. Alternatively, if the current stop symbol command specifies a non-winning symbol, it can be determined that the current variation is out of sync.

  Step S606: If the lottery result command is other than non-winning (missing) (step S604: No), the effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the current fluctuation is a big hit. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and confirms whether or not the lottery result command at the time of the big hit is stored. As a result, when it is confirmed that the lottery result command at the time of big hit is stored (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S610. On the contrary, when it is confirmed that the lottery result command at the time of big hit is not stored (No), since only the lottery result command at the time of small hit is left, in this case, the effect control CPU 126 executes step S608. Whether or not the current variation is a big hit can also be confirmed based on a variation pattern command or a stop symbol command. That is, if the current variation pattern command corresponds to the big hit variation, it can be determined that the current variation is a big hit. If the current stop symbol command corresponds to the jackpot symbol, it can be determined that the current variation is a jackpot.

  Step S608: The effect control CPU 126 executes a small hit hour variation effect pattern selection process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 determines the effect pattern number at that time based on the variation pattern command received from the main control CPU 72 (for example, “C0H00H” to “D0H7FH”). The effect pattern number is prepared in advance corresponding to the variation pattern command, and the effect control CPU 126 can select an effect pattern number corresponding to the variation pattern command at that time by referring to an effect pattern selection table (not shown). it can. The production pattern numbers may be prepared in pairs with the variation pattern commands, or a plurality of production pattern numbers may be prepared for one variation pattern command.

  When the effect pattern number is selected, the effect control CPU 126 refers to an effect table (not shown), and the effect symbol change schedule (change time, reach type and reach occurrence timing) corresponding to the change effect pattern number at that time, stop display The mode and the like are determined. Note that the types of effect symbols determined here correspond to the “combination of symbols at the time of a small hit”.

  Although the above procedure corresponds to “small hit”, if it corresponds to 15 round big hit or 2 round big hit, the effect control CPU 126 confirms that it is “big hit” in step S606 (Yes). In this case, the effect control CPU 126 executes step S610.

  Step S610: The effect control CPU 126 executes a big hit hour fluctuation effect pattern selection process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 determines the effect pattern number at that time based on the variation pattern command (for example, “E0H00H” to “F0H7FH”) received from the main control CPU 72. The types of effect symbols determined here include those constituting the “combination at the time of two rounds big hit” in addition to those constituting the above “hit combination”. In addition, the combination at the time of 2 round big hits shall be a combination of regular numbers such as “1-2-3” and “3-5-7” as described above (so-called chance win) Can do. Note that, in the big hit effect pattern selection process, the process may be further branched for each big hit stop symbol. The contents of the big hit hour variation effect pattern selection process will be described later with reference to another drawing.

  In the case of non-winning, the following procedure is executed. In other words, when the effect control CPU 126 confirms that there is a shift in step S604 (Yes), it next executes step S612.

  Step S612: The effect control CPU 126 executes a deviation effect pattern selection process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 determines the effect pattern number at the time of deviation based on the variation pattern command (for example, “A0H00H” to “A6H7FH”) received from the main control CPU 72. The effect pattern numbers at the time of losing are classified into “ordinary deviation fluctuation”, “short-time deviation fluctuation”, “outlier reach fluctuation”, and the like, and a fine reach fluctuation pattern is defined in “outlier reach fluctuation”. Note that which effect pattern number is selected by the effect control CPU 126 is determined based on the variation pattern command transmitted from the main control CPU 72.

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

  When any one of the above steps S608, S610, and S612 is executed, the effect control CPU 126 next executes step S614.

  Step S614: The effect control CPU 126 executes a notice selection process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects the content of the notice effect to be executed during the current variable display effect by lottery. The content of the notice effect is determined based on, for example, the result of internal lottery (winning or non-winning) and the current internal state (normal state, high probability state, time reduction state). As described above, the notice effect is for notifying the player of the possibility that the reach state will occur during the variable display effect, or for notifying that there is a possibility that it will eventually be a big hit. Therefore, the selection ratio of the notice effect is set to be low at the time of non-winning, but the selection ratio of the notice effect is set to be relatively high to increase the player's expectation at the time of winning.

  Step S616: The effect control CPU 126 executes a zone effect pattern selection process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 manages the flow of effects leading to the occurrence of the “special zone effect” in response to “ON” of the “zone effect flag”. The specific contents of the zone effect pattern selection process will be described later using another flowchart.

  When the above procedure is completed, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect symbol management process (end address). As a result, in the subsequent effect symbol variation processing (step S504 in FIG. 41), the variation display effect and the result display effect are executed based on the actually selected variation effect pattern (effect execution means), and various A notice effect is executed based on the notice effect pattern (effect execution means). In addition, various stay mode effects are executed based on the background (stay) mode pattern selected here (effect execution means). In addition, based on the zone effect pattern selected here, effects up to the above-mentioned special zone effect are executed (special period effect executing means, start availability effect executing means).

[Zone effect pattern selection processing]
FIG. 43 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the zone effect pattern selection process. Hereinafter, the contents of the zone effect pattern selection process will be described according to a procedure example.

  Step S900: First, the effect control CPU 126 also confirms whether or not the “zone effect flag” is “ON”. When the “zone production flag” is “OFF” (No), the production control CPU 126 returns to the production control process (FIG. 38) through the production symbol variation pre-processing (FIG. 42). On the other hand, if the “zone production flag” is “ON” (Yes), the production control CPU 126 executes step S902 and subsequent steps.

  Step S902: Here, the effect control CPU 126 checks whether or not the “zone effect counter” has already been set. The “zone effect counter” is an internal counter that sets the number of fluctuations from when the special zone effect is actually started until it is finished. Such a “zone effect counter” is, for example, in the count area of the RAM 130. Its value can be set and updated. The effect control CPU 126 reads the counter value from the corresponding address in the count area, and if a value (other than 0) has not yet been set (No), next, executes step S904.

  Step S904: In this case, the effect control CPU 126 checks whether or not a specific reach variation pattern command exists in the working memory. Specifically, with regard to the seven working memories excluding the first change after reaching the specified number, it is confirmed whether there is a change pattern destination determination command corresponding to the specified reach reach change pattern or jackpot reach change pattern. To do. When the corresponding variation pattern destination determination command exists (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 proceeds to the next step S906.

Step S906: Here, the production control CPU 126 executes a zone entry lottery on production. For example, the effect control CPU 126 acquires a random number for effect lottery from the counter area of the RAM 130, and executes a lottery (zone entry lottery) as to whether or not to enter the special zone effect using a lottery table (not shown).
Step S908: When the effect control CPU 126 wins the previous zone entry lottery (Yes), step S910 is executed.

  Step S910: In this case, the effect control CPU 126 arranges the specific reach fluctuation pattern command (the fluctuation pattern destination determination command corresponding to the special outlier reach fluctuation pattern or the big hit reach fluctuation pattern) in the working memory (first to seventh sections). To the initial value of the “zone effect counter”. For example, when the corresponding variation pattern destination determination command is the oldest in the storage order (corresponding to the storage of the first section), the effect control CPU 126 sets the initial value of the “zone effect counter” to “0”. Similarly, when the corresponding variation pattern destination determination command is the second oldest in the storage order (corresponding to the storage in the second section), the initial value of the “zone effect counter” is set to “1”, In the case of the third oldest (corresponding to the memory of the third section), the initial value of the “zone effect counter” is set to “2”, and in the case of the fourth oldest (corresponding to the memory of the fourth section), “ For example, the initial value of the “zone effect counter” is set to “3”. The effect control CPU 126 sets the initial value of the “zone effect counter” to “4” when the corresponding memory is the fifth oldest (corresponding to the memory of the fifth section), and the sixth oldest (the sixth If the storage is the latest (corresponding to the memory of the seventh section), the initial value of the “zone production counter” is set to “5”. "Is set to" 6 ".

  Step S912: The effect control CPU 126 selects a zone effect pattern to be executed in the current special zone effect. The zone effect pattern can be determined based on the initial value of the “zone effect counter” set in the previous step S910. Here, a specific example will be described.

[See FIG. 44: Effect Pattern Selection Table for Each Zone Effect Counter Initial Value]
FIG. 44 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of the “zone effect counter initial value-specific effect pattern selection table”. This table can be used when there is a variation pattern destination determination command corresponding to the “big hit reach variation pattern” in the oldest memory. That is, the effect control CPU 126 can determine the zone effect pattern with reference to the table shown in FIG. 44 when the initial value of the “zone effect counter” is set to “6” in the previous step S910.

  In the table shown in FIG. 44, as the value of “zone effect counter”, the value “6” from the initial value to “0” after reduction is assigned to each column in the leftmost column. The “zone effect counter” is decremented by 1 for each fluctuation, and when the value becomes “0”, the “zone effect flag” is reset.

  Further, in the heading column in the table, the second cell from the left to the rightmost cell represent small items in the zone effect pattern, respectively. Each stage in the column of each sub-item specifies whether or not the sub-item is executed and an effect pattern to be executed for each sub-item. More specific description will be given below.

[When the counter value for zone effect is 6]
As shown in the top row of the table (excluding the heading column; the same applies thereafter), when the “zone effect counter” is the initial value “6”, the following zone effect pattern is selected. . The zone effect pattern is composed of a combination of a plurality of “small items”.
Subitem “Successful Entry Direction”: “Yes”
Sub-item “Special Zone Effect Screen Frame”: “Pattern A”
Sub-item “Logo body movable”: “Strong pattern”
Sub-item "Memory display body movable": "Yes"

  Among these, the small item “entry success production”: “present” means that, for example, the production pattern (L) in FIG. 33 is selected. In addition, the small item “special zone effect screen frame”: “pattern A” specifically specifies the display mode (color tone and brightness) of the screen frame shown in (ii) to (iv) in FIG. 34, for example. To do. In addition, the small item “logo display body movable”: “pattern strength” designates an operation pattern (driving pattern of the logo display body motor 194) for dropping the logo display body 41a at, for example, the maximum angle. The sub-item “memory display body movable”: “present” designates that the memory display body 41b is operated (the memory display body motor 196 is driven).

[When the zone effect counter value is 5]
As shown in the second row of the table, when the value of the “zone effect counter” is subtracted to “5”, the following zone effect pattern is selected.
Sub-item “Special Zone Effect Screen Frame”: “Pattern A”
Sub-item "Memory display body movable": "Yes"

[When the counter value for zone effect is 4 or 3]
As shown in the third row of the table, when the value of the “zone effect counter” is subtracted to “4” or “3”, the following zone effect pattern is selected.
Sub-item “Special Zone Effect Screen Frame”: “Pattern B”
Sub-item "Memory display body movable": "Yes"
The sub-item “Special Zone Effect Screen Frame”: “Pattern B” specifies a display mode different from “Pattern A” for the screen frame.

[When the counter value for zone production is 2]
As shown in the fourth row in the table, when the value of the “zone effect counter” is subtracted to “2”, the following zone effect pattern is selected.
Sub-item “Special Zone Screen Frame”: “Pattern C”
Sub-item “Logo display movable”: “Pattern weak”
Sub-item "Memory display body movable": "Yes"
The sub-item “Special Zone Effect Screen Frame”: “Pattern C” specifies a display mode different from “Pattern A” and “Pattern B” for the screen frame. In addition, the small item “movable logo display body”: “pattern weak” designates an operation pattern (driving pattern of the logo display body motor 194) for dropping the logo display body 41a at a minimum angle, for example.

[When the counter value for zone effect is 1]
As shown in the fifth row of the table, when the value of the “zone effect counter” is subtracted to “1”, the following zone effect pattern is selected.
Sub-item “Special Zone Screen Frame”: “Pattern C”
Sub-item “Logo display movable”: “Pattern”
Sub-item "Memory display body movable": "Yes"
The small item “logo display body movable”: “medium pattern” is an operation pattern (driving pattern of the logo display body motor 194) that drops the logo display body 41a at an intermediate angle that is larger than the minimum and smaller than the maximum, for example. It is what you specify.

[When the zone effect counter value is 0]
Then, as shown at the bottom of the table, when the value of the “zone effect counter” is subtracted to “0”, the following zone effect pattern is selected.
Sub-item “Special Zone Effect Screen Frame”: “Pattern D”
Sub-item “Logo body movable”: “Strong pattern”
Sub-item "Memory display body movable": "Yes"
The small item “special zone effect screen frame”: “pattern D” designates a display mode different from any of the above “pattern A” to “pattern C” for the screen frame.

  Thus, the effect control CPU 126 can set each effect pattern (by small item) according to the value of the “zone effect counter”.

[See Figure 43: Zone Effect Pattern Selection Processing]
Step S914: The effect control CPU 126 checks whether or not the value of the “zone effect counter” is “0”. If it is not yet “0” (No), the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect control process (FIG. 38) through the effect symbol variation pre-process (FIG. 42).

  The above is the procedure executed before the first fluctuation starts after the total storage number reaches the specified number. As a result, during the first fluctuation, the above start / impossibility effect ((I) in FIG. 32, (J), (K), etc. in FIG. 33) is executed, and the zone entry success effect (in FIG. 32 (L )) Is executed (execution of startable / impossible effect execution means, introduction portion, main portion). Then, the special zone effect ((i) in FIG. 34) is entered from the first stop display.

[During special zone production]
In addition, after the special zone effect is started, the following procedure is performed.
Step S900: Since the “zone production flag” is also “ON” here, the production control CPU 126 proceeds to step S902.
Step S902: If it is confirmed here that the “zone effect counter” has been set (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 proceeds to step S916.

  Step S916: In this case, the effect control CPU 126 decrements the “zone effect counter” by one. Thereby, for example, when “6” is set as an initial value, the value is decreased to “5” here.

[Connection symbol A → A]
Step S912: Accordingly, for example, referring to the “zone effect counter initial value-specific effect pattern selection table” for the second time, the effect control CPU 126 selects the zone effect pattern (a combination of small items) corresponding to the value “5”. You can choose.

  After this, when the variation display progresses during the special zone effect, and the “zone effect counter” is subtracted to “0” in step S916 (step S914: Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S918.

Step S918: In this case, the effect control CPU 126 resets the “zone effect flag” (“OFF”). Then, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect control process (FIG. 38) through the effect symbol variation pre-process (FIG. 42). As a result, step S912 is not executed in the subsequent fluctuations, and the special zone effect ends.
If the “zone production flag” is set to “OFF”, the special zone production may be ended in the subsequent production symbol stop display processing.

[At the time of special zone entry failure production]
The above procedure is the flow when the zone entry lottery is won (step S908: Yes), but when the zone entry lottery is not won (step S908: No), step S920 is executed.

  Step S920: In this case, the effect control CPU 126 selects a zone entry failure effect pattern. Specifically, an effect pattern for executing the failure effect shown in (M) in FIG. 33 is selected.

  Step S922: The effect control CPU 126 sets the “in-zone effect flag” to “OFF”, returns to the effect control process (FIG. 38) through the effect symbol variation pre-processing (FIG. 42). As a result, the special zone effect is not selected in the subsequent processing.

[When giving points]
Further, when the “total zone production flag” is set to “ON” because the total storage number reaches the specified number, but there is no specific reach variation pattern command in the working memory (step S904: No), production control The CPU 126 executes step S924.

  Step S924: In this case, the effect control CPU 126 selects an eight zone point giving effect pattern. Specifically, an effect pattern corresponding to the flow of the effect example shown in FIG. 36 is selected.

  Step S918: The effect control CPU 126 sets the “zone effect flag” to “OFF”, returns to the effect control process (FIG. 38) through the effect symbol variation pre-processing (FIG. 42). In this case as well, special zone effects, success effects, failure effects, etc. are not selected in the subsequent processing.

[Other benefits based on point grants]
Although not particularly shown here, when a certain number of points (for example, about 10,000 points) are accumulated through the above point giving effect (FIG. 36), for example, a special effect pattern can be selected during a big hit. May be added.

[Production time schedule]
Further, as described above, since the first variation time after the total stored number reaches the specified number is set to the second shortened variation time (about 6 seconds), the time schedule of each effect is as follows.

[When selecting a successful production for special zone production]
(1) From start of fluctuation to 2 seconds The start introduction effect section is executed ((I) in FIG. 32 to (J) and (K) in FIG. 33).
(2) From 2 seconds after the start of fluctuation to 4 seconds The success effect is executed at the main part of the start availability effect ((L) in FIG. 33).
(3) A special zone entry effect is executed from 4 seconds to 6 seconds after the start of fluctuation (stop display) ((L) in FIG. 33 to (i) in FIG. 34).

[When special zone production entry failure production is selected]
(1) From start of fluctuation to 2 seconds The start introduction effect section is executed ((I) in FIG. 32 to (J) and (K) in FIG. 33).
(2) From 2 seconds to 4 seconds after the start of fluctuation The failure effect is executed at the main part of the start / not possible effect ((M) in FIG. 33).
There will be no production after that.

[When point granting effect is selected]
(1) From the start of fluctuation to 4 seconds The effect before giving points is executed ((A) to (D) in FIG. 36).
There will be no production after that.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, when the total memory number reaches the specified number during the normal game, an effect related to the expected value of the jackpot is executed based on the result of the previous determination in the working memory. Therefore, it is possible to make the player always conscious of accumulating the total memory number up to the specified number even during the normal game, and the operating rate of the pachinko machine 1 can be greatly improved.

  Moreover, even if there is no jackpot destination determination result in the working memory, by giving points in the production, it is possible to give an opportunity to receive a privilege during the subsequent game. As a result, the player can feel the merit of accumulating a large number of memories, which can also contribute to the improvement of the operating rate.

  The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and can be implemented with various modifications. Various aspects of the effects listed in the embodiment are merely examples, and are not limited to the effects described above.

  In one embodiment, the total number of memories is a specified number obtained by adding the maximum values (four each) of the two special symbols, but the specified number may be a value smaller than the total of the maximum values (four each). .

  The images given in other production examples are merely examples, and these can be appropriately modified. Further, the structure, board configuration, specific set values, etc. of the pachinko machine 1 are preferable examples including those shown in the figure, and it goes without saying that these can be appropriately modified.

  In the embodiment described above, the event generating means that can alternately generate the first event and the second event has been described in the example of the sorting device 200, but the left start winning port 28a and the right start winning port 26 are simply left and right. You may employ | adopt the structure arrange | positioned along with. Even with such a structure, the first event and the second event can be generated alternately.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Pachinko machine 8 Game board 8a Game area 20 Start gate 26 Right start prize port 28 Variable start prize device 28a Left start prize port 33 Normal symbol display device 33a Normal symbol operation memory lamp 34 1st special symbol display device 35 2nd special symbol Display device 34a First special symbol operation memory lamp 35a Second special symbol operation memory lamp 38 Game state display device 42 Liquid crystal display 70 Main control device 72 Main control CPU
74 ROM
76 RAM
124 Production control device 126 Production control CPU

Claims (1)

Lottery element acquisition means for acquiring a first lottery element or a second lottery element necessary for a predetermined internal lottery on the condition that a first event or a second event that becomes a lottery trigger occurs during a game;
When the internal lottery is executed on the condition that the first lottery element or the second lottery element has been acquired by the lottery element acquisition unit with the occurrence of the first event or the second event, the lottery opportunity The first symbol corresponding to the first event or the second symbol corresponding to the second event is variably displayed over a predetermined variation time, and then the first lottery is displayed in a manner representing the result of the internal lottery. A symbol display means for stopping and displaying the symbol or the second symbol;
When the first event or the second event occurs in a state where the start condition for starting the variable display of the first symbol or the second symbol by the symbol display unit is not satisfied, the lottery element acquisition unit Lottery element storage means for storing the acquired first lottery element or the second lottery element;
When the first event or the second event occurs in a state where the start condition is satisfied, the internal lottery is executed using the first lottery element or the second lottery element acquired by the lottery element acquisition unit. And at least one of the first lottery element and the second lottery element by the lottery element storage means at the end of the stop display after the first symbol or the second symbol has been changed and displayed by the symbol display means. Is stored, the lottery execution means for executing the internal lottery using the storage of the first lottery element or the second lottery element,
The first lottery element or the second lottery element newly acquired by the lottery element acquisition unit is newly added when the first event or the second event occurs in a state where the start condition is not satisfied. When stored in the lottery element storage means, the result of the internal lottery is determined in advance using the new first lottery element or the second lottery element before being used for the internal lottery by the lottery execution means. A destination determination means;
In performing the variable display of the first symbol or the second symbol by the symbol display means, after executing a variable display effect corresponding to the variable display of the first symbol or the second symbol at least within the variable time, A symbol effect execution means for executing a stop display effect corresponding to the stop display mode of the first symbol or the second symbol by the symbol display means;
Number of memories for executing a memory number display effect in a mode in which the total number of memories obtained by adding the number of memories of the first lottery elements and the number of memories of the second lottery elements by the lottery element storage means is displayed within a prescribed number range. Display production execution means;
While the variable display effect is being executed by the symbol effect executing means in a state where the total stored number is less than the specified number, the total stored number displayed in the stored number display effect is less than the specified number. A memory number increase promotion effect executing means for executing a memory number increase promotion effect in a mode that prompts the total memory number to be increased to the specified number by indicating the number of memories not to be stored ;
When the total stored number reaches the specified number, the specified number reaching effect in an aspect indicating that the total stored number has reached the specified number is executed, and the symbol display means is executed by the symbol display means thereafter. Storage of any of the first lottery elements or the second lottery elements included in the prescribed number within a period until the maximum number of variable display and stop display of the one symbol or the second symbol reaches the prescribed number The first symbol or the second symbol is an aspect that represents the winning result after the first symbol or the second symbol is displayed by the symbol display unit on the basis of the previous determination result by the destination determination unit. A special period effect executing means for executing the special period effect after executing the start availability effect indicating whether or not to start the special period effect in a mode that suggests that there is a possibility that the display is stopped > A gaming machine characterized by comprising: