JP6006371B1 - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a gaming machine capable of attracting an interest of a player. When a first performance pattern indicating that a special game is highly likely to be performed is determined as a result of the special game determination, the specific game is developed to suggest that the special game is highly likely to be performed. An effect that develops to a specific effect after a roaring effect can be executed, and when a second effect pattern indicating that no special game is performed is determined, an effect that does not develop into a specific effect after the roaring effect Any of the effects suggesting the determination result of the prior determination for determining whether or not to perform the special game before the special game determination is performed can be executed. [Selection] Figure 32

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine played by a player.

  In recent gaming machines, for example, pachinko gaming machines, there are many cases where reach is likely to be established when the number of reserved special symbol lotteries is small (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

JP 2010-246616 A

  As described above, at present, gaming machines are required not only to provide fun to acquire gaming media (gaming machines, medals, etc.) but also to provide various values (for example, highly interesting effects). . For this reason, game machines are always required to have new actions that can attract the player's interest.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and its main purpose is to provide a gaming machine that can attract the interest of the player.

  In order to achieve the above object, one aspect of the present invention employs the following configuration. Note that reference numerals, explanatory words, and the like in parentheses indicate correspondence with embodiments described later in order to help understanding of one aspect of the present invention, and limit the scope of one aspect of the present invention. Not what you want.

A gaming machine (1) according to one aspect of the present invention includes:
Special game determination means (100) for determining whether or not to execute a special game based on the game information acquired by establishing the start condition;
Prior determination means (100) for determining whether or not to execute the special game before being determined by the special game determination means based on the game information;
Based on the determination result by the special game determination means, an effect pattern determining means (100) for determining an effect pattern of a notification effect for informing the determination result;
Production execution means (400, 500) for executing the notification production based on the production pattern determined by the production pattern determination unit,
The effect pattern determination means includes at least a first effect pattern (for example, a variation pattern of identification numbers 1 to 6 shown in FIGS. 14 to 17) indicating that the special game is likely to be performed and the special game. A second performance pattern (for example, a variation pattern of identification numbers 7 to 9 shown in FIGS. 14 to 17) indicating that it is not performed can be determined;
The production execution means
When the first effect pattern is determined by the effect pattern determining means, the notification effect is followed by an encouraging effect that develops into a specific effect that suggests that the special game is likely to be performed. The first production (for example, the production shown in FIGS. 32 (1), (2), and (3-2)) that can be developed into a specific production can be executed.
When the second effect pattern is determined by the effect pattern determining means, in the notification effect, the second effect (for example, FIGS. 32 (1) and (2), FIG. 32 (1), (2), (Refer to the effect shown in (3-1)) and a third effect (for example, refer to the hold change effect shown in FIG. 33) suggesting the determination result by the prior determination means.

The second effect pattern includes at least a normal effect pattern (for example, a variation pattern of identification numbers 8 and 9 shown in FIGS. 14 to 17) and a special effect pattern (for example, the identification number 7 shown in FIGS. 14 to 17). Variation pattern)
The production execution means
In the notification effect, the second effect or the third effect is executed with a higher probability when the special effect pattern is determined than when the normal effect pattern is determined by the effect pattern determining means. May be.

Further, the normal effect pattern and the special effect pattern include time information that determines the effect time of the notification effect,
The effect pattern determining means includes
As the normal performance pattern, the first normal performance pattern in which the first time information is determined can be determined when not in the predetermined state, and shorter than the first time information when in the predetermined state. A second normal performance pattern in which second time information is determined can be determined;
As the special effect pattern, an effect pattern in which third time information is defined may be determined regardless of whether or not the predetermined state is set.

  In addition, a storage means capable of storing up to a predetermined number of the game information is further provided, and the effect execution means determines the special effect pattern by the effect pattern determination means, and the special determination by the prior determination means. When the game information determined to be performed is stored in the storage unit, the third effect may be executed with higher probability than the second effect in the notification effect.

  ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, the game machine which can perform the novel operation | movement which attracts a player's interest can be provided.

Schematic front view showing an example of a pachinko gaming machine 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention The enlarged view which shows an example of the indicator 4 provided in the pachinko machine 1 of FIG. Partial plan view of the pachinko gaming machine 1 of FIG. The block diagram which shows an example of a structure of the control apparatus provided in the pachinko gaming machine 1 The figure for demonstrating an example of the game ball passage determination process peculiar to this embodiment An example of a flowchart showing main processing executed by the main control unit 100 An example of a detailed flowchart of the power-off monitoring process in step S911 in FIG. An example of a detailed flowchart of the recovery process in step S909 of FIG. An example of a flowchart showing timer interrupt processing performed by the main control unit 100 The figure for demonstrating the data used when performing a special figure game count process and a usual figure game count process, and the storage area (working area) of RAM103 of the main control part 100 An example of a conceptual diagram of a variation time table used for setting the special symbol variation display time in the area 11A An example of a detailed flowchart of the start port switch process in step S2 of FIG. An example of a detailed flowchart of the special symbol process in step S4 of FIG. The figure for demonstrating an example of a fluctuation pattern determination table The figure for demonstrating an example of a fluctuation pattern determination table The figure for demonstrating an example of a fluctuation pattern determination table The figure for demonstrating an example of a fluctuation pattern determination table An example of a detailed flowchart of the big prize opening process in step S6 of FIG. An example of a detailed flowchart of the big prize opening process in step S6 of FIG. An example of a flowchart showing timer interrupt processing performed by the effect control unit 400 An example of a detailed flowchart showing command reception processing in step S11 of FIG. An example of a detailed flowchart showing command reception processing in step S11 of FIG. An example of a detailed flowchart showing the notification effect setting process in step S115 of FIG. An example of a detailed flowchart showing the notification effect setting process in step S115 of FIG. The figure for demonstrating an example of a production type determination table The figure for demonstrating an example of a production type determination table The figure for demonstrating an example of a production type determination table The figure for demonstrating an example of a production type determination table An example of a flowchart showing an effect execution process executed by the image sound control unit 500 An example of a flowchart showing the drawing process in step S804 in FIG. The figure for demonstrating a decoration design and a hold picture The figure for demonstrating an example of the production image displayed in the image display part 6. The figure for demonstrating an example of the production image displayed in the image display part 6.

  Hereinafter, a pachinko gaming machine 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings as appropriate. Hereinafter, the pachinko gaming machine 1 may be simply referred to as a gaming machine 1.

[Schematic configuration of pachinko gaming machine 1]
Hereinafter, a schematic configuration of the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 1 is a schematic front view showing an example of a gaming machine 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is an enlarged view showing an example of the display 4 provided in the gaming machine 1. FIG. 3 is a partial plan view of the gaming machine 1.

  In FIG. 1, a gaming machine 1 is a pachinko gaming machine configured to pay out a winning ball when a gaming ball launched by a player's operation wins a prize, for example. This gaming machine 1 includes a game board 2 on which game balls are launched, and a frame member 5 surrounding the game board 2. The frame member 5 is configured to be openable and closable with respect to the main part of the gaming machine 1 around a hinge provided on the shaft support side. And the lock part 43 is provided in the predetermined position (for example, edge part on the opposite side to a shaft support side) which becomes the front side of the frame member 5, and the frame member 5 is unlocked by unlocking the lock part 43. Can be opened.

  A game area 20 for playing a game with a game ball is formed on the front surface of the game board 2. In the gaming area 20, a rail member (from which a game ball launched from below (the launching device 211; see FIG. 4) rises along the main surface of the game board 2 and forms a path toward the upper position of the gaming area 20 ( (Not shown) and a guide member (not shown) for guiding the raised game ball to the right side of the game area 20.

  In addition, the game board 2 is provided with an image display unit 6 that displays images for various effects at positions that are easily visible to the player. The image display unit 6 notifies the player of the result of the special symbol lottery (big hit lottery), for example, by displaying a decorative symbol according to the progress of the game by the player, the appearance of a character, the appearance of an item, etc. Or a reserved image showing the number of times the special symbol lottery is held. The image display unit 6 is configured by a liquid crystal display device, an EL (Electro Luminescence) display device, or the like, but any other display device may be used. Furthermore, a movable accessory 7 and a board lamp 8 used for various effects are provided on the front surface of the game board 2. The movable accessory 7 is configured to be movable with respect to the game board 2, and produces an effect by performing a predetermined operation in accordance with the progress of the game or in accordance with the player's operation. The board lamp 8 emits light according to the progress of the game, thereby performing various effects by light.

  In the game area 20, a game nail and a windmill (both not shown) that change the falling direction of the game ball are arranged. Further, in the game area 20, various bonuses related to winning and lottery are arranged at predetermined positions. In FIG. 1, the first start port 21, the second start port 22, the gate 25, the big winning port 23, and the normal winning port 24 are arranged on the game board 2 as an example of various prizes related to winning and lottery. It is installed. In addition, the game area 20 is provided with a discharge port 26 through which game balls that have not been won in any of the game areas of the game balls launched into the game area 20 are discharged out of the game area 20. .

  The first start port 21 and the second start port 22 are awarded when a game ball enters, respectively, and a special symbol lottery (big hit lottery) is started. The first start port 21 operates a predetermined special electric accessory (large winning port 23) and / or a predetermined special symbol display (first special symbol display 4a described later). It is a winning opening related to winning a game ball. Further, the second start opening 22 operates the special electric accessory and / or a predetermined special symbol display device (second special symbol display device 4b described later), and wins related to winning a game ball. The mouth. When the game ball passes through the gate 25, the normal symbol lottery (the open / close lottery of the electric tulip 27 described below) starts. The lottery is not started even if a game ball wins the normal winning opening 24.

  The 2nd starting port 22 is provided in the lower part of the 1st starting port 21, and is equipped with the electric tulip 27 in the vicinity of the entrance of a game ball as an example of a normal electric accessory. The electric tulip 27 has a pair of wings imitating tulip flowers, and the pair of wings opens and closes left and right by driving an electric tulip opening / closing unit 112 (for example, an electric solenoid) described later. When the pair of blade portions are closed, the electric tulip 27 is in a closed state in which the game ball does not enter the second start port 22 because the opening width guided to the entrance of the second start port 22 is extremely narrow. On the other hand, the electric tulip 27 is in an open state in which the game ball can easily enter the second starting port 22 because the opening width guided to the inlet of the second starting port 22 increases when the pair of wings open to the left and right. . When the electric tulip 27 passes through the gate 25 and the normal symbol lottery is won, the pair of blades opens for a specified time (for example, 0.10 seconds) and opens and closes for a specified number of times (for example, once). To do.

  The big winning opening 23 is located at the lower center of the second starting opening 22 and is opened according to the result of the special symbol lottery. The big prize opening 23 is normally in a closed state so that no game balls can enter, but depending on the result of the special symbol lottery, it protrudes from the main surface of the game board 2 and is in an open state. The game ball is easy to enter. For example, the special winning opening 23 repeats a round that is in an open state until a predetermined condition (for example, 29.5 seconds elapses or a winning of 10 game balls) is satisfied a predetermined number of times (for example, 16 times).

  Further, on the lower right side of the game board 2, a display 4 for displaying the results of the special symbol lottery and the normal symbol lottery described above and the number of reserved items is arranged. Details of the display 4 will be described later.

  Here, the payout of prize balls will be described. When a game ball enters (wins) the first start port 21, the second start port 22, the big winning port 23, and the normal winning port 24, a predetermined number per game ball is determined according to the place where the game ball has won. The prize ball is paid out. For example, when one game ball is won at the first start port 21 and the second start port 22, three prize balls are awarded, and when one game ball is won at the big prize port 23, thirteen prize balls are given to the normal prize slot 24. When one game ball is won, ten prize balls are paid out. Even if it is detected that the game ball has passed through the gate 25, there is no payout of the prize ball in conjunction with it.

  The frame member 5 on the front surface of the gaming machine 1 is provided with a handle 31, a lever 32, a stop button 33, a take-out button 34, a speaker 35, a frame lamp 36, an effect button 37, an effect key 38, a dish 39, and the like. Yes.

  When the player touches the handle 31 and performs an operation to rotate the lever 32 clockwise, the launching device 211 (100 per minute) with a hitting force according to the operation angle (for example, 100 per minute). 4) electrically fires the game ball. The tray 39 (see FIG. 3) is provided so as to protrude in front of the gaming machine 1 and temporarily stores game balls supplied to the launching device 211. In addition, the above-described prize balls are paid out to the plate 39. The game balls stored in the tray 39 are supplied to the launching device 211 one by one by a supply device (not shown) at a timing linked with the operation by the player's lever 32.

  The stop button 33 is provided on the lower side surface of the handle 31, and even when the player touches the handle 31 and rotates the lever 32 in the clockwise direction, the game ball is released by being pressed by the player. Is temporarily stopped. The take-out button 34 is provided on the front surface in the vicinity of the position where the tray 39 is provided, and when the player presses it, the game balls accumulated in the tray 39 are dropped into a box (not shown).

  The speaker 35 and the frame lamp 36 respectively notify the gaming state and situation of the gaming machine 1 and perform various effects. The speaker 35 performs various effects using music, voice, and sound effects. In addition, the frame lamp 36 performs various effects by light depending on a pattern by lighting / flashing or a difference in emission color.

  Next, the display 4 provided in the gaming machine 1 will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 2, the display 4 includes a first special symbol display 4a, a second special symbol display 4b, a first special symbol hold indicator 4c, a second special symbol hold indicator 4d, a normal symbol indicator 4e, and a normal symbol indicator 4e. A symbol hold display 4f and a game status display 4g are provided.

  The first special symbol display 4a is displayed with the display symbol varying corresponding to the winning of the game ball at the first starting port 21. For example, the first special symbol display 4a is composed of a 7-segment display device, and when a game ball is won at the first starting port 21, the special symbol is displayed in a variable manner, and then the lottery result is displayed. Further, the second special symbol display 4b is displayed with the display symbols varying corresponding to the winning of the game ball at the second starting port 22. For example, the second special symbol display 4b is similarly composed of a 7-segment display device, and when a game ball wins at the second starting port 22, the special symbol is displayed in a variable manner and then stopped and the lottery result is displayed. To do. In the normal symbol display 4e, the display symbol is changed and displayed in response to the game ball passing through the gate 25. For example, the normal symbol display 4e is constituted by an LED display device, and when a game ball passes through the gate 25, the normal symbol is variably displayed and then stopped and displayed.

  The first special symbol hold indicator 4c displays the number of times that the special symbol lottery is held when a game ball wins at the first start port 21. The second special symbol hold indicator 4d displays the number of times that the special symbol lottery is held when the game ball wins at the second start port 22. The normal symbol hold display 4f displays the number of times the normal symbol lottery is held. For example, the first special symbol hold indicator 4c, the second special symbol hold indicator 4d, and the normal symbol hold indicator 4f are each composed of LED display devices arranged in a row, and the number of times of hold is displayed according to the lighting mode. The

  The game state display 4g displays a game state (such as a short time state) when the gaming machine 1 is powered on.

  Next, an input device provided in the gaming machine 1 will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 3, the gaming machine 1 is provided with an effect button 37 and an effect key 38 as an example of an input device.

  The effect button 37 and the effect key 38 are provided for the player to input the effect. The effect button 37 is provided on the side of the upper surface of the tray 39 protruding forward of the gaming machine 1. The production key 38 has a center key and four direction keys arranged in a substantially cross shape, and is provided on the upper side of the plate 39 adjacent to the production button 37. The effect button 37 and the effect key 38 are each pressed by the player to perform a predetermined effect. For example, the player can enjoy a predetermined effect by pressing the effect button 37 at a predetermined timing. Further, the player can select one of a plurality of images displayed on the image display unit 6 by operating the four direction keys of the effect key 38. Further, the player can input the selected image as information by operating the center key of the effect key 38.

  In addition, on the back side of the gaming machine 1, a ball tank for storing game balls for payout and a payout device (payout drive unit 311) for paying out the game balls to the tray 39 are provided, and various substrates are attached. ing. For example, a main board, a sub board, and the like are disposed on the rear surface of the game board 2. Specifically, a main control board on which a main control unit 100 (see FIG. 4) that performs internal lottery and determination of winning is configured is disposed on the main board. The sub-board includes a firing control board 200 (see FIG. 4) configured to control a launching device 211 that launches a game ball to the upper part of the game area 20, and a payout control unit 300 that controls the payout of a prize ball. A payout control board configured with an effect control board configured with an effect control section 400 for overall control of effects, an image control board configured with an image acoustic control section 500 for controlling effects with images and sounds, and various types The lamp control board etc. in which the lamp control part 600 which controls the effect by the lamp (frame lamp 36, panel lamp 8) and the movable accessory 7 are arranged. In addition, on the rear surface of the gaming board 2, the power source of the gaming machine 1 is switched on / off, and 24V (volt) AC power supplied to the gaming machine 1 is converted into DC power of various voltages. A switching power supply is provided for outputting the direct current power to the various substrates described above.

[Configuration of control device of pachinko gaming machine 1]
Next, with reference to FIG. 4, a control device that performs operation control and signal processing in the gaming machine 1 will be described. FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the control device provided in the gaming machine 1.

  4, the control device of the gaming machine 1 includes a main control unit 100, a launch control unit 200, a payout control unit 300, an effect control unit 400, an image sound control unit 500, a lamp control unit 600, and the like.

  The main control unit 100 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 101, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 102, and a RAM (Random Access Memory) 103. The CPU 101 performs arithmetic processing when performing various controls related to the number of payout prize balls, such as internal lottery and determination of winning. The ROM 102 stores programs executed by the CPU 101 and various data. The RAM 103 is used as a working memory for the CPU 101. Hereinafter, main functions of the main control unit 100 will be described.

  The main control unit 100 performs a special symbol lottery (big hit lottery) when a game ball wins at the first starting port 21 or the second starting port 22, and effects control is performed on determination result data indicating whether or not the special symbol lottery is won. Send to part 400.

  The main control unit 100 controls the opening time when the blade portion of the electric tulip 27 is opened, the number of times the blade portion is opened and closed, and the opening / closing time interval at which the blade portion is opened and closed. Further, the main control unit 100 executes the special symbol lottery execution suspension number when the game ball wins the first start port 21, the special symbol lottery execution suspension number when the game ball wins the second start port 22, In addition, the number of execution suspensions of the normal symbol lottery when the game ball passes through the gate 25 is managed, and data related to the number of suspensions is sent to the effect control unit 400.

  The main control unit 100 controls the opening / closing operation of the special winning opening 23 according to the result of the special symbol lottery. For example, the main controller 100 repeats a predetermined number of rounds (for example, 29.5 seconds have passed or 10 game balls have been won) in which the big winning opening 23 projects and inclines and opens. (16 times). Further, the main control unit 100 controls the opening / closing time interval at which the special winning opening 23 opens and closes.

  The main control unit 100 changes the game state in accordance with the progress of the game, and according to the progress of the game, the winning probability of the special symbol lottery, the execution interval of the special symbol lottery (the special symbol is variably displayed on the display 4) In other words, it may be said that it is a time to stop display), and the opening / closing operation of the electric tulip 27 is changed.

  When a game ball wins the first start port 21, the second start port 22, the big winning port 23, and the normal winning port 24, the main control unit 100 determines a predetermined amount per game ball according to the place where the game ball has won. The payout control unit 300 is instructed to pay out a number of prize balls. Even if the main control unit 100 detects that the game ball has passed through the gate 25, the main control unit 100 does not instruct the payout control unit 300 to pay out the prize ball in conjunction therewith. When the payout control unit 300 pays out a prize ball according to an instruction from the main control unit 100, information on the number of prize balls paid out from the payout control unit 300 is sent to the main control unit 100. Then, the main control unit 100 manages the number of paid-out prize balls based on the information acquired from the payout control unit 300.

  In order to realize the above-described functions, the main control unit 100 includes a first start port switch 111a, a second start port switch 111b, an electric tulip opening / closing unit 112, a gate switch 113, a big prize opening switch 114, a big prize opening opening / closing. 115, normal winning opening switch 116, display 4 (first special symbol display 4a, second special symbol display 4b, first special symbol hold indicator 4c, second special symbol hold indicator 4d, normal symbol display 4e, a normal symbol hold display 4f, and a game status display 4g) are connected.

  The first start port switch 111 a sends a signal to the main control unit 100 in response to the winning of the game ball to the first start port 21. The second start port switch 111 b sends a signal corresponding to the winning of the game ball to the second start port 22 to the main control unit 100. The electric tulip opening / closing unit 112 opens and closes the pair of blade portions of the electric tulip 27 in accordance with a control signal sent from the main control unit 100. The gate switch 113 sends a signal corresponding to the game ball passing through the gate 25 to the main control unit 100. The big winning opening switch 114 sends a signal corresponding to the winning of the game ball to the big winning opening 23 to the main control unit 100. The special prize opening / closing unit 115 opens and closes the special prize opening 23 in accordance with a control signal sent from the main control unit 100. The normal winning port switch 116 sends a signal to the main control unit 100 in response to the winning of the game ball to the normal winning port 24.

[Switch processing of this embodiment]
Below, the switch process (game ball passage determination process) of the present embodiment will be specifically described. Note that this game ball passage determination process is limited to the case where it is determined that a game ball has entered (or passed) the first start port 21, the second start port 22, the gate 25, the big winning port 23, or the like. For example, it is also executed when the payout control unit 300 determines (counts) the paid-out prize balls (number of prize balls).

  FIG. 5 shows an example of the output signal of the proximity switch installed as the first start port switch 111a for detecting the game ball winning (passing) to the first start port 21 and the like, and the output signal. It is a figure for demonstrating the example of the binarization signal binarized into the ON level and the OFF level using the passage determination threshold value (5V). As an example, the proximity switch has a circular through hole through which a game ball passes through a rectangular plate, and outputs an output signal of a voltage corresponding to a change in magnetic flux when the game ball passes through the through hole. This is a direct current 2-wire electronic switch for output. As shown by the dotted line in FIG. 5, the voltage level of the output signal of the proximity switch decreases as the game ball approaches the center of the through hole, and becomes the minimum (minimum) when the game ball reaches the center of the through hole. The game ball rises as it passes through the center of the through hole and leaves. Further, as shown in FIG. 5, the output signal of the proximity switch is converted to an OFF level of the binarized signal when the voltage level is larger than the passage determination threshold (5V) by a comparator (not shown), and the voltage level is When it is below the passage determination threshold value (5 V), it is converted into an ON level of the binarized signal. In the example of FIG. 5, the passage determination threshold used for the determination is described as one passage determination threshold (5V). However, for example, when switching from the OFF level to the ON level, the first passage determination threshold (5V) is used. On the other hand, the second passage determination threshold (6V) may be used when switching from the ON level to the OFF level. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the binarized signal from improperly switching between ON / OFF due to the output signal of the proximity switch going up and down across the passage determination threshold due to the influence of noise or the like.

  Then, as part of each process in the timer interrupt process executed at intervals of 4 milliseconds (4 ms) by the main control unit 100 described later with reference to FIG. 9, the binarized signal shown in FIG. By determining ON / OFF, the game ball is determined to pass. This will be specifically described below.

  As shown in FIG. 5, it is determined at intervals of 4 milliseconds (ON / OFF determination) whether the binary signal is at the ON level or the OFF level. In FIG. 5, the natural number n is used to represent the order of ON / OFF determination. In FIG. 5, the OFF level is determined by the (n−2) -th to n-th ON / OFF determinations, and then the ON level is determined by the (n + 1) th ON / OFF determination. Here, in the present embodiment, when the ON level is determined, in the ON / OFF determination processing determined to be the ON level, a predetermined minute time (for example, 4 microseconds) shorter than the 4 millisecond interval is used. The second ON / OFF determination is executed at the elapsed timing. In FIG. 5, the ON / OFF determination in the (n + 1) th timer interrupt process is determined to be the ON level both times. Thereafter, it is determined to be the OFF level by the ON / OFF determination from the (n + 2) th time to the (n + 4) th time. Note that the ON level period of the binarized signal (referred to as the ON period) is longer than in the case of FIG. 5 (that is, the game ball passes at a slower speed than in the case of FIG. 5). When the determination is also executed during the ON period, the determination is executed twice in the (n + 2) th ON / OFF determination.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5, when the ON level is determined to be the OFF level by the nth ON / OFF determination and the ON level is determined to be the second ON level by the (n + 1) th ON / OFF determination, It is determined that one game ball has passed. The ON / OFF determination is performed by the main control unit 100 (more precisely, the CPU 101) for the proximity switch installed as the first start port switch 111a, for example, and connected to the payout control unit 300, for example. The payout control unit 300 (more precisely, the CPU 301) executes the proximity switch for detecting the payout number of the game balls that have been played (see FIG. 4).

  Here, the predetermined minute time (for example, 4 microseconds) in the (n + 1) th ON / OFF determination shown in FIG. 5 is set in advance according to the software programming content for executing the calculation process of the game ball passage determination. The That is, the predetermined minute time described above is a variable time that can be set to an arbitrary time depending on the programming content. The gaming machine 1 may generate fine period noise (for example, noise of 3 to 15 microsecond period), and this noise period depends to some extent on the type of gaming machine. For example, a certain type of gaming machine is likely to generate noise with a period of 5 microseconds, and a certain type of gaming machine is likely to generate noise with a period of 9 microseconds. Therefore, in the present embodiment, by adopting a configuration in which the predetermined minute time described above can be set to an arbitrary time depending on the programming content, it is possible to effectively avoid erroneous determination due to noise of a fine cycle. Note that the arithmetic processing for providing the predetermined minute time described above is processing that is not related to the progress of the game and is only for earning time. For example, by repeating a process requiring a time of 1 microsecond four times, 4 microseconds can be provided as the above-mentioned predetermined minute time in software.

  By the way, in recent gaming machines, the processing load has increased due to an increase in the contents of arithmetic processing, so the execution interval of timer interrupt processing, which was 2 milliseconds in the previous gaming machine, has been extended to 4 milliseconds. As described with reference to FIG. 5, the ON / OFF determination using the proximity switch is also extended from the 2 millisecond interval and executed at an interval of 4 millisecond.

  Here, the previous gaming machine is determined to be the OFF level by the nth ON / OFF determination, is determined to be the ON level by the (n + 1) th ON / OFF determination, and is determined to be the ON level by the (n + 2) th ON / OFF determination. As a result, it was determined that one game ball passed (hereinafter referred to as “previous determination method”). That is, the game ball passage is determined by three ON / OFF determinations by three timer interruption processes. The reason for determining the ON level at the (n + 1) th time and the (n + 2) th time as described above is to avoid erroneous determination that the game ball has passed due to the accidental determination of the ON level once due to noise. However, in a recent gaming machine in which the ON / OFF determination interval is extended to an interval of 4 milliseconds, the previous determination method described above cannot determine the passage of a game ball passing at a high speed. For example, as the binarized signal ON level period (ON period) shown in FIG. 5 becomes very short (for example, around 7 milliseconds), it is difficult to determine the passing of the game ball passing at a higher speed. End up. Therefore, in the present embodiment, it is determined that one game ball has passed by the determination method described with reference to FIG. From this, according to this embodiment, it is possible to reliably determine the passing of the game ball while preventing erroneous determination due to noise by the ON / OFF determination by two timer interruption processes.

  By the way, the gaming machine 1 includes a power monitoring circuit for detecting that the power supply to the gaming machine 1 is cut off, a disconnection detection circuit for detecting that the wiring of the proximity switch is disconnected, and a proximity switch. An abnormality detection circuit (not shown) such as a short circuit detection circuit for detecting that the wiring is short-circuited (short circuit) is provided. These abnormality detection circuits provide a threshold (abnormality determination level) for determining the occurrence of an abnormality at a voltage level higher than the passage determination threshold (5 V) shown in FIG. Therefore, when the voltage of the output signal of the proximity switch decreases, an abnormality is determined before the voltage of the output signal drops to the passage determination threshold, thereby preventing erroneous determination that the game ball has passed. Thus, since the abnormality determination level is provided at a voltage level higher than the passage determination threshold, it is difficult to take a long ON period by setting the passage determination threshold to a high value (for example, 10 V) (see FIG. 5). ). As a result, in the gaming machine 1, it is not realistic to determine the passage of the game ball using the previous determination method by taking a long ON period of the output signal.

  In the switch processing described above, the second ON / OFF determination may not be performed in the timer interrupt processing determined to be ON that is executed after the timer interrupt processing determined to be ON.

  Further, in the switch processing described above, it may be configured to detect the passage of the game ball by detecting the place where the binarized signal is switched from ON to OFF. That is, in FIG. 5, it may be determined that one game ball has passed with the determination that the n + 1 time timer interrupt process is turned on twice and the n + 2 time timer interrupt process is turned off.

  Further, in the switch processing described above, in one timer interrupt process (ON detection), ON / OFF determination may be performed three times or more. In one timer interrupt process (OFF detection), You may perform ON / OFF determination twice or more.

  In addition, in the switch processing described above, a configuration may be adopted in which the game ball passage determination is performed without converting the output signal (analog signal) of the proximity switch into a binary signal (digital signal). In other words, the game ball passage determination may be performed by determining whether or not the output signal (analog signal) of the proximity switch is equal to or less than the passage determination threshold (5 V).

  In the switch processing described above, the output signal of the proximity switch is an output signal that is at a low voltage level when the game ball is not detected and becomes a high voltage level when the game ball is detected, and a signal inversion means for inverting the output signal Thus, the output signal may be inverted and converted into a signal as indicated by a dotted line in FIG.

  Further, the switch processing described above may be configured such that the proximity switch itself converts the analog signal into a binarized signal and outputs it, and the binarized signal is output from the proximity switch.

  This is the end of the description of the switch processing (game ball passage determination processing) of the present embodiment, and the description returns to FIG.

  In addition, the main control unit 100 displays the result of a special symbol lottery started by winning a game ball at the first starting port 21 (hereinafter sometimes referred to as a first special symbol lottery) on the first special symbol display 4a. indicate. The main control unit 100 displays on the second special symbol display 4b the result of the special symbol lottery started by the winning of the game ball to the second starting port 22 (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the second special symbol lottery). . The main control unit 100 displays the number of times the first special symbol lottery is on hold on the first special symbol hold display 4c. The main control unit 100 displays the number of holdings for which the second special symbol lottery is held on the second special symbol holding display 4d. The main control unit 100 displays the result of the normal symbol lottery started by passing the game ball to the gate 25 on the normal symbol display 4e. The main control unit 100 displays the number of times of holding the normal symbol lottery on the normal symbol hold display 4f. Further, the main control unit 100 displays the gaming state at that time on the gaming state display 4g when the gaming machine 1 is turned on.

  The launch control unit 200 includes a CPU 201, a ROM 202, and a RAM 203. The CPU 201 performs arithmetic processing when performing various controls related to the launching device 211. The ROM 202 stores programs executed by the CPU 201 and various data. The RAM 203 is used as a working memory for the CPU 201.

  When the lever 32 is in the neutral position, the lever 32 is in a firing stop state without outputting a signal. When the player is rotated clockwise by the player, the lever 32 outputs a signal corresponding to the rotation angle to the firing control unit 200 as a hitting ball firing command signal. The launch control unit 200 controls the launch operation of the launch device 211 based on the hit ball launch command signal. For example, the launch control unit 200 controls the operation of the launch device 211 so that the speed at which the game ball is launched increases as the rotation angle of the lever 32 increases. When the signal indicating that the stop button 33 is pressed is output, the launch control unit 200 stops the operation of the launch device 211 firing the game ball.

  The payout control unit 300 includes a CPU 301, a ROM 302, and a RAM 303. The CPU 301 performs a calculation process when controlling the payout of the payout ball. The ROM 302 stores programs executed by the CPU 301 and various data. A RAM 303 is used as a working memory for the CPU 301.

  The payout control unit 300 controls payout of the payout ball based on the command sent from the main control unit 100. Specifically, the payout control unit 300 acquires from the main control unit 100 a command for paying out a predetermined number of prize balls according to the place where the game ball has won. Then, the payout driving unit 311 is controlled so as to pay out the number of prize balls specified by the command. Here, the payout drive unit 311 is configured by a drive motor or the like that sends out a game ball from a game ball storage unit (ball tank).

  The effect control unit 400 includes a CPU 401, a ROM 402, a RAM 403, and an RTC (real time clock) 404. The effect control unit 400 is connected to the effect key 38 operated by the player, and the effect control unit 400 acquires operation data output from the effect key 38 in accordance with the operation of the effect key 38 by the player. To do. Further, the effect control unit 400 acquires operation data output from the effect button 37 via the lamp control unit 600. The CPU 401 performs a calculation process when controlling the effect. The ROM 402 stores programs executed by the CPU 401 and various data. The RAM 403 is used as a working memory for the CPU 401. The RTC 404 measures the current date and time.

  The production control unit 400 sets production contents based on data indicating the special symbol lottery result and the like sent from the main control unit 100. In addition, when the effect button 37 or the effect key 38 is pressed by the player, the effect control unit 400 may set the effect content according to the operation input or the detection result.

  The image sound control unit 500 includes a CPU 501, a ROM 502, and a RAM 503. The CPU 501 performs arithmetic processing when controlling the image and sound expressing the content of the effect. The ROM 502 stores programs executed by the CPU 501 and various data. The RAM 503 is used as a working memory for the CPU 501.

  The image sound control unit 500 controls the image displayed on the image display unit 6 and the sound output from the speaker 35 based on the command sent from the effect control unit 400. Specifically, in the ROM 502 of the image sound control unit 500, a decorative symbol image for notifying a special symbol lottery result, an image of a character or item for displaying a notice effect or a pre-read notice effect, a special symbol lottery The image data for displaying on the image display unit 6 a reserved image indicating that the image is held, various background images, and the like are stored. The ROM 502 of the image sound control unit 500 stores various types of sound data such as music and sound output from the speaker 35 in synchronization with the image displayed on the image display unit 6 or independently of the displayed image. It is remembered. The CPU 501 of the image sound control unit 500 selects and reads out the data corresponding to the command sent from the effect control unit 400 from the image data and sound data stored in the ROM 502. The CPU 501 performs image processing for background image display, decorative symbol image display, character / item display, and the like using the read image data, and performs various processes corresponding to commands sent from the effect control unit 400. Perform production display. Then, the CPU 501 displays the image indicated by the image processed image data on the image display unit 6. In addition, the CPU 501 performs sound processing using the read sound data, and outputs the sound indicated by the sound processing sound data from the speaker 35.

  The lamp control unit 600 includes a CPU 601, a ROM 602, and a RAM 603. The CPU 601 performs arithmetic processing when controlling the light emission of the panel lamp 8 and the frame lamp 36 and the operation of the movable accessory 7. The ROM 602 stores programs executed by the CPU 601 and various data. The RAM 603 is used as a working memory for the CPU 601.

  The lamp control unit 600 controls the lighting / flashing of the panel lamp 8 and the frame lamp 36 and the emission color based on the command sent from the effect control unit 400. The lamp controller 600 controls the operation of the movable accessory 7 based on the command sent from the effect controller 400. Specifically, the ROM 602 of the lamp control unit 600 stores lighting / flashing pattern data and emission color pattern data (emission pattern data) for the panel lamp 8 and the frame lamp 36 according to the production contents set by the production control unit 400. ) Is stored. The CPU 601 selects and reads out the light emission pattern data stored in the ROM 602 corresponding to the command sent from the effect control unit 400. Then, the CPU 601 controls the light emission of the panel lamp 8 and the frame lamp 36 based on the read light emission pattern data. In addition, the ROM 602 stores operation pattern data of the movable accessory 7 corresponding to the effect contents set by the effect control unit 400. The CPU 601 selects and reads out the operation pattern data stored in the ROM 602 corresponding to the command sent from the effect control unit 400. Then, the CPU 601 controls the operation of the movable accessory 7 based on the read operation pattern data.

  The lamp control unit 600 is connected to an effect button 37 operated by the player, and the lamp control unit 600 acquires operation data output from the effect button 37 in response to the operation of the effect button 37 by the player. Then, the operation data is transmitted to the effect control unit 400.

  The effect control unit 400 controls the image sound control unit 500 based on the operation data of the effect button 37 transmitted from the lamp control unit 600 and the operation data output from the effect key 38. The operation state of the production key 38 is notified. Here, the operation state of the effect button 37 and the effect key 38 is whether or not the operation is being performed and what kind of operation is being performed (for example, a long press of the effect button 37 or the effect key 38 Information including pressing of a direction key). Therefore, for example, when the effect button 37 is operated by the player, the operation state of the effect button 37 detected by the lamp control unit 600 is transmitted to the image sound control unit 500 via the effect control unit 400. For this reason, the image sound control unit 500 can change the content of the effect based on the operation state of the effect button 37 transmitted from the effect control unit 400.

[Outline of gaming state in this embodiment]
Next, the gaming state of the gaming machine 1 in this embodiment will be described. The gaming state of the gaming machine 1 includes at least a high probability state, a low probability state, an electric support state, a non-electric support state, a short-time state, a non-short-time state, and a big hit gaming state. The low probability state is a gaming state in which the winning probability of the special symbol lottery is set to a normal low probability (for example, 1/300), and the high probability state is that the winning probability of the special symbol lottery is lower than the low probability state. The gaming state is set to a high probability (for example, 1/50). In the non-electric support state, the winning probability of the normal symbol lottery is a normal low probability (for example, 1/10), and even if the normal symbol lottery is won, the electric tulip 27 is short (for example, 0.10 seconds). Is a game state in which the release control is performed only once), and therefore, it is a game state in which it is difficult for a game ball to enter the second start port 22. In the electric support state, the winning probability of the normal symbol lottery is higher than the non-electric support state (for example, 10/10), and when the normal symbol lottery is won, the electric tulip 27 is long (for example, 2.00 seconds). 3), the electric tulip 27 is frequently opened for a long period of time, and it is easy for the game balls to enter the second start port 22 frequently (winning). A gaming state. The non-short-time state is a gaming state in which the execution time of the special symbol lottery is a normal predetermined time, and the short-time state is a gaming state in which the execution time of the special symbol lottery is shortened compared to the non-short-time state. The jackpot game state is a game state in which a jackpot game is executed in which a special symbol lottery is won (winning) and the jackpot 23 is opened. In the present embodiment, the electric support state and the short-time state are controlled at the same time. However, in this gaming state, the gaming ball is likely to win a prize at the second starting port 22, so that the gaming ball is mostly Many special symbol lotteries can be executed in a short time without decreasing. In the following, a gaming state that is controlled to a low-probability state, a non-electric support state, and a non-short-time state is referred to as a normal gaming state, and a gaming state that is controlled to a high-probability state, an electric support state, and a short-time state is a probabilistic gaming state. That's it. In this embodiment, there is no latent game state that is a gaming state controlled to a high-accuracy state, a non-electric support state, and a non-time-saving state, and if the special symbol lottery is won, the big hit game ends. The gaming state is controlled in the probability changing gaming state or the normal gaming state.

  Next, a processing flow executed by the pachinko gaming machine 1 will be described.

[Main processing by main control unit 100]
First, the main process executed by the main control unit 100 will be described with reference to FIG. This main process is started when the power of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is turned on, and is continuously executed while the main control unit 100 is activated.

  In step S901 in FIG. 6, first, the CPU 101 waits, for example, 2000 ms, and the process proceeds to step S902. Although not shown, when the power of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is turned on, the CPU 401 of the effect control unit 400 can receive a signal from the main control unit 100 without performing standby processing. . That is, the CPU 401 of the effect control unit 400 is in a state where processing can be started before the CPU 101 of the main control unit 100.

  In step S902, the CPU 101 can access the RAM 103, and the process proceeds to step S903.

  In step S903, the CPU 101 determines whether or not a RAM clear switch (not shown) is “ON”. If the determination in step S903 is YES, the process proceeds to step S904. If the determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S907.

  In step S904, the CPU 101 clears the RAM. Here, the RAM clear is a well-known technique and will not be described in detail, but various information (for example, information indicating the gaming state) stored in the RAM 103 is set to a predetermined initial state. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S905.

  In step S905, the CPU 101 sets a work area when the RAM is cleared, and the process proceeds to step S906.

  In step S906, the CPU 101 performs initial setting of the peripheral portion. Here, the peripheral portion is the effect control unit 400, the payout control unit 300, or the like. Initial setting of the peripheral unit is performed by transmitting an initial setting command for instructing execution of the initial setting to each control unit. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S910.

  In step S907, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the backup flag is “ON”. Note that the backup flag is a flag that is turned on when the generation of backup data is normally completed when the power is turned off, and is a flag indicating that the backup data is valid in association with the generated backup data. If the determination in step S907 is YES, the process moves to step S908. If the determination is NO, the process moves to step S904.

  In step S908, the CPU 101 determines whether the checksum is normal. If the determination in step S908 is YES, the process proceeds to step S909. If the determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S904.

  In step S909, the CPU 101 executes a recovery process (see FIG. 8) described later, and the process proceeds to step S910.

  In step S910, the CPU 101 sets a cycle (4 ms) of a built-in CTC (timer counter). Note that the CPU 101 executes a timer interrupt process (see FIG. 9), which will be described later, using the period set here. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S911.

  In step S911, the CPU 101 executes a power shutdown monitoring process (see FIG. 7) described later, and the process proceeds to step S912.

  In step S912, the CPU 101 performs setting to prohibit interruption of the timer interrupt process, and the process proceeds to step S913.

  In step S913, the CPU 101 updates (counts up) various initial value random numbers, and the process proceeds to step S914. Here, the initial value random number is used to determine the start value of various random numbers (big hit random number, symbol random number, reach random number, variation pattern random number) that are counted up and updated in timer interrupt processing (see FIG. 9) described later. A plurality of initial value random numbers corresponding to various random numbers are prepared. The initial value random number includes a timer interrupt process (see FIG. 9) that occurs every predetermined CTC period (4 ms) and the remaining time (that is, the processing time required for the timer interrupt process from the predetermined CTC period). It is counted up and updated both in the main process (see FIG. 6) processed during the subtracted time and returns to the minimum value (for example, 0) again after reaching the maximum value (for example, 299) of the set random number. Further, since this remaining time varies depending on the processing status of the CPU 101, it is a random time, and the number of updates of the initial random number that is updated with the remaining time is also random. On the other hand, although details will be described later, other random numbers (big hit random numbers, design random numbers, reach random numbers, fluctuation pattern random numbers) are updated only by timer interrupt processing (see FIG. 9). The processing cycle is different. In this way, due to the difference in processing cycle, for example, even if the random number range of the initial value random number and the big hit random number is the same (for example, 0 to 299), the initial value random number acquired as the start value of the big hit random number The value is random every time. Therefore, it is possible to make it difficult to predict the timing at which the big hit random number value that generates the big hit is acquired.

  In step S914, the CPU 101 performs setting to permit interruption of the timer interrupt process, and the process returns to step S911. That is, the CPU 101 repeatedly executes the processes in steps S911 to S914.

[Power-off monitoring process by the main control unit 100]
FIG. 7 is a detailed flowchart of the power-off monitoring process in step S911 in FIG. In step S9111, the CPU 101 prohibits the interrupt process, and the process proceeds to step S9112.

  In step S9112, the CPU 101 determines whether the power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 1 is cut off based on whether a power cut-off signal is input from a power supply unit (not shown). If the determination in step S9112 is YES, the process moves to step S9114. If the determination is NO, the process moves to step S9113.

  In step S9113, the CPU 101 permits the interrupt process and ends the power shutdown monitoring process (the process moves to step S912 in FIG. 6).

  On the other hand, in step S9114, the CPU 101 clears the output port through which various information is input / output to / from the CPU 101, and the process proceeds to step S9115.

  In step S 9115, the CPU 101 creates backup data in the RAM 103 based on the current gaming state of the gaming machine 1, creates a checksum from the contents of the RAM 103, and stores the checksum in the RAM 103. In this process, the power supply voltage is set to “0” after detecting that the power supply voltage has started to decrease due to the power supply cutoff of the power supplied to the main control unit 100 (after “YES” is determined in step S9112). It is done during the period until it becomes. Through this process, game state information and the like immediately before the power is turned off are stored in the RAM 103. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S9116.

  In step S9116, the CPU 101 sets the backup flag to “ON”, and the process proceeds to step S9117.

  In step S 9117, the CPU 101 prohibits access to the RAM 103 and ends the power shutdown monitoring process (the process moves to step S 912 in FIG. 6).

[Restoration process by main control unit 100]
FIG. 8 is a detailed flowchart of the recovery process in step S909 of FIG. First, in step S9091 of FIG. 8, the CPU 101 sets a work area of the RAM 103 at the time of restoration, and the process proceeds to step S9092.

  In step S9092, the CPU 101 refers to the information in the RAM 103, confirms information regarding the gaming state at the time of power-off and the number of special symbol lotteries held, and sends a recovery notification command including the information to the effect control unit 400. Send. As described above, the CPU 101 transmits a recovery notification command indicating the power-off state to the effect control unit 400 in order to notify that the power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 1 has been recovered. By the processing in step S9092, the effect control unit 400 can check the gaming state before power-off and the like.

  In step S9093, the CPU 101 sets a peripheral part, and the process proceeds to step S9094.

  In step S9094, the CPU 101 sets the backup flag to “OFF” and ends the recovery process (the process moves to step S910 in FIG. 6).

[Timer interrupt processing of main control unit]
Next, a timer interrupt process executed in the main control unit 100 will be described. FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating an example of timer interrupt processing performed by the main control unit 100. The timer interrupt process performed in the main control unit 100 will be described below with reference to FIG. The main control unit 100 repeatedly executes a series of processes shown in FIG. 9 at regular time intervals (4 milliseconds) during normal operation except for special cases such as when the power is turned on or when the power is turned off. Note that the processing performed by the main control unit 100 described based on the flowcharts of FIG. 9 and subsequent figures is executed based on a program stored in the ROM 102.

  First, in step S1, the CPU 101 of the main control unit 100 serves as a starting value for updating various random numbers such as jackpot random numbers, symbol random numbers, reach random numbers, and variation pattern random numbers, and counting up each random number. Random number update processing for updating each initial value random number is executed. Here, the big hit random number is a random number for determining whether or not a special symbol lottery is won or lost (that is, performing a special symbol lottery). The symbol random number is a random number for determining the type of jackpot when the special symbol lottery is won. The jackpot random number and the design random number are random numbers used in the process of step S407 in FIG. The reach random number is a random number for determining whether or not a reach effect is performed when a special symbol lottery is lost. The variation pattern random number is a random number for determining the variation time (variation pattern) of the special symbol. Here, the variation time of the special symbol is equal to the execution time of the notification effect (variation effect) executed in synchronization with the variation of the special symbol. The reach random number and the fluctuation pattern random number are used in the process of step S408 in FIG. 13 described later. In the random number update process of step S1, the big hit random number, the design random number, the reach random number, the variation pattern random number, etc. are each added and updated by one. That is, it is counted up. Each random number is acquired in the start port switch (SW) process in step S2 and the gate switch (SW) process in step S3, and is used in the special symbol process in step S4 and the normal symbol process in step S5 described later. Note that the counter that performs the processing of step S1 is typically a loop counter, and returns to 0 again after reaching the maximum value of the set random number (for example, 299 for the variation pattern random number) (that is, the circulation counter). To do). In addition, in the random number update process of step S1, each counter such as a big hit random number, a design random number, a reach random number, and a variation pattern random number is initialized to an initial value corresponding to each random number at that time when the loop counter counts once. A random number is acquired, and the loop counter is newly started using the initial random number as a start value. The random number ranges such as jackpot random numbers, design random numbers, reach random numbers, and fluctuation pattern random numbers may be set arbitrarily. (Value) is preferably set so as not to synchronize.

  Next, in step S2, the CPU 101 monitors the state of the first start port switch 111a and the second start port switch 111b, and determines that a game ball has won the first start port 21 or the second start port 22. Thus, the start port switch process is executed to perform processing related to the number of holdings U1 for the first special symbol lottery, the number of holdings U2 for the second special symbol lottery, and processing for obtaining various random numbers. Details of the start port switch process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Next, in step S3, the CPU 101 monitors the state of the gate switch 113 and, based on the output signal from the gate switch 113, determines that the game ball has passed through the gate 25. Is determined to be less than the upper limit value (for example, 4), and if it is determined that the number of holds is less than the upper limit value, a gate switch process for acquiring a random number used in the normal symbol process in step S5 described later is executed. .

  Next, in step S4, the CPU 101 executes the first special symbol lottery or the second special symbol lottery, and after the special symbols are variably displayed on the first special symbol display 4a or the second special symbol display 4b, these are displayed. The stop symbol display process showing the lottery result of the above and the special symbol process for transmitting various commands to the effect control unit 400 are executed. This special symbol process will be described in detail later with reference to FIG.

  Next, in step S5, the CPU 101 executes a normal symbol process for determining whether or not the random number acquired in the gate switch process in step S3 matches a predetermined hit random number. Then, the CPU 101 stops and displays the normal symbol indicating the determination result after the normal symbol is variably displayed on the normal symbol display 4e. Specifically, the CPU 101 sets the normal symbol change time to be stopped and displayed after the normal symbol is variably displayed to 10 seconds in the non-time-short state and to 0.5 seconds in the time-short state. In addition, the CPU 101 sets the probability that the normal symbol displayed on the normal symbol display 4e becomes a predetermined winning symbol (that is, the winning probability of the normal symbol lottery) at a low probability (1/10) in the non-electric support state. However, in the electric support state, it is raised with a high probability (10/10).

  Next, in step S6, when it is determined that the special symbol lottery is won in the special symbol processing in step S4 (when a big hit is made), the CPU 101 controls the big prize opening / closing unit 115 to the special prize lot 23. A predetermined opening / closing operation is performed, and a big prize opening process for transmitting various commands related to a so-called jackpot game effect or the like to the effect control unit 400 is executed. By this processing, the big hit game (special game) is progressed, and the player can acquire a large amount of prize balls. This special winning opening process will be described in detail later with reference to FIGS.

  Next, in step S7, the CPU 101 performs electric driving when the normal symbol displayed on the normal symbol display 4e by the normal symbol processing in step S5 is a predetermined winning symbol (that is, when the normal symbol lottery is won). An electric tulip process for operating the tulip 27 is executed. At that time, the CPU 101 controls the opening of the electric tulip 27 for a very short period (once for 0.10 seconds) in the non-electric support state, and the electric tulip 27 for a long period (three times for 2.00 seconds) in the electric support state. Open control. In addition, when the electric tulip 27 is controlled to be in the open state, a game ball can be won at the second start port 22, and when the game ball wins at the second start port 22, a second special symbol lottery is performed. Will be.

  Next, in step S <b> 8, the CPU 101 executes prize ball processing for managing the number of winning game balls and controlling the payout of prize balls according to the prize.

  Next, in step S9, the CPU 101 executes various commands and effects set in the RAM 103 by the start opening switch process in step S2, the special symbol process in step S4, the big winning opening process in step S6, the prize ball process in step S8, and the like. Output processing for outputting information necessary for the production control unit 400 or the payout control unit 300 is executed. The CPU 101 notifies each winning opening that a gaming ball has won each time the gaming ball wins the first starting opening 21, the second starting opening 22, the big winning opening 23, and the normal winning opening 24. Are set in the RAM 103, and the winning command is output to the effect control unit 400 or the payout control unit 300.

[About control time count processing]
Here, the description of the timer interrupt process described above with reference to FIG. 9 is omitted, but in this timer interrupt process, the CPU 101 uses a single timer function to measure a series of control times on the special symbol game side. Control time count processing on the game side (referred to as “special game count processing”), and control time count processing on the normal symbol game side that measures a series of control times on the normal symbol game side using one timer function (“ The usual game count process ”is executed. For example, the special game count process and the normal game count process are executed in order between the process of step S7 and the process of step S8 in FIG. In addition, the special symbol game waits for the winning of the game ball to the start opening (21 or 22), repeatedly executes the special symbol lottery in response to the winning of the game ball, and notifies the lottery result, When the special symbol lottery is won, the game is a big hit game. The normal symbol game waits for the game ball to pass to the gate 25, repeats the normal symbol lottery according to the passing of the game ball and informs the lottery result, and wins the normal symbol lottery. In this case, the opening / closing control of the electric tulip 27 (electric chew opening game) is executed.

  In the following, first, the special game count process will be described. FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining data used when executing the special game count process and the normal game count process, and the storage area (work area) of the RAM 103 of the main control unit 100.

  FIG. 10A shows the types of data (referred to as “special drawing side setting data”) for setting (specifying) the time to be counted on the special symbol game side. The special figure side setting data is data for setting which period of each period (time) of the special symbol game is measured. In each period (time) of this special symbol game, as shown in FIG. 10 (1), “Waiting for start opening prize”, “Displaying special symbol variation”, “Displaying special symbol stop”, "Opening display", "Rounding", "Large winning slot validity period", and "Ending display" are included.

  “Waiting for start entrance prize” is a state (period) in which a special symbol lottery related to the start entrance prize can be immediately executed to start displaying the variation of the special design when there is a start entrance prize. It is not a big hit game, and it is in a state where neither a special symbol change display nor a specified time stop display is displayed. “During special symbol variation display” is a state (period) in which special symbol lottery is executed according to the start opening winning and the special symbol variation display is performed on the display 4. “During special symbol stop display” is a state (period) in which the special symbol variably displayed on the display unit 4 is completely stopped and displayed for a specified time (0.5 seconds) in a display mode for notifying the special symbol lottery result. It is. “Opening display” is a state (period) in which an opening effect is displayed on the image display unit 6 informing that the special symbol lottery is won and that the big hit game has started. “During round” is a state (period) in which a round (round game) in which the big winning opening 23 is opened in the big hit game is being executed. “During the grand prize winning period” is a period of time that is arranged immediately after each round, and that the winning of the game ball to the big prize opening 23 is recognized as being valid despite the end of the round and the closing of the big prize opening 23 Thus, a so-called over-winning is recognized (in the big winning opening process described in detail later with reference to FIG. 18 and FIG. 19, the processing content of the over-winning is omitted for the sake of simplicity). ). In addition, in the period excluding the period during the round and the grand prize winning period, the winning of the game ball to the big prize opening 23 is not recognized as valid. “During ending display” is a state (period) in which an ending effect is displayed on the image display unit 6 to notify the end of the big hit game.

  As shown in FIG. 10 (1), for example, the special figure side setting data “00H” is data for setting “waiting for start opening prize”, for example, the special figure side setting data “01H” is “ This is data for setting “special symbol variation display”. These special figure side setting data are stored in the ROM 102.

  FIG. 10 (3) is a schematic diagram of a storage area (work area) of the RAM 103. As shown in FIG. 10 (3), the storage area of the RAM 103 includes a count target time setting area 10, a time count area 11, and a simple variation display time count area 12. The count target time setting area 10 includes a count target time setting area 10A (referred to as “area 10A”) on the special symbol game side and a count target time setting area 10B (referred to as “area 10B”) on the normal symbol game side. The time count area 11 includes a time count area 11A (referred to as “area 11A”) on the special symbol game side and a time count area 11B (referred to as “area 11B”) on the normal symbol game side. The simple variation display time count area 12 includes a special symbol display time count area 12A (referred to as "Area 12A") on the special symbol game side and a simple variation display time count area 12B ("Area 12B") on the normal symbol game side. Said).

  Area 11A is a timer area for measuring the passage of time for each period of the above-described special symbol game (such as “special symbol variation display”), and measures one passage of time by writing one piece of time data. This is a timer area. The area 10A is an area for setting the type of time to be measured in the area 11A by writing any one of the special drawing side setting data described with reference to FIG. When the special symbol is variably displayed in the 7-segment display on the first special symbol display 4a (or the second special symbol display 4b), the area 12A displays the three display modes of the 7-segment display every 48 milliseconds. This is a timer area for measuring the time lapse of 48 milliseconds when executing the control for switching and displaying in order, and a timer area for measuring one lapse of time by writing one time data. is there. Note that the three display modes of the 7-segment display are, for example, a display mode that indicates the number 0, a display mode that indicates the number 7, and a display mode in which all seven segments are turned off.

  The CPU 101 sets the type of period (time) to be measured by the area 11A by writing the special setting side setting data in the area 10A, and writes the time data to be measured in the area 11A. In the timer interrupt process of FIG. By subtracting the time data value of the area 11A by 1 by the special figure game count process executed every millisecond, the progress of each period of the special symbol game is sequentially performed using one timer area (area 11A). Measure in order.

  In addition, when the special symbol variation display time is measured in the area 11A, the CPU 101 writes predetermined time data ("12") in the area 12A and executes it every 4 milliseconds in the timer interrupt processing of FIG. When the value of the time data in the area 12A is subtracted by 1 by the special figure game count process to be 0, the predetermined time data ("12") is written again and the display mode of the special symbol is switched. As a result, when the special symbol is variably displayed in the 7-segment display on the first special symbol display 4a (or the second special symbol display 4b), the three display modes of the 7-segment display are changed every 48 milliseconds. It will be switched in order and displayed cyclically.

  In FIG. 10 (3), as an example, it is set that “01H” is written in the area 10A, whereby the elapsed time of the special symbol variation display is measured in the area 11A. In addition, as an example, a value “2500” indicating time is written in the area 11A of FIG. 10 (3). This value is updated by subtracting 1 every 4 milliseconds by the timer interrupt processing of FIG. Therefore, this value “2500” indicates 10.000 seconds. In addition, as an example, a value “12” indicating time is written in the area 12A of FIG. 10 (3). This value is also subtracted by 1 every 4 milliseconds by the timer interrupt processing of FIG. Therefore, this value “12” indicates 48 milliseconds.

  As described above, according to this embodiment, a series of control times of the special symbol game is measured using one timer function (see 11A in FIG. 10 (3)). Here, in the conventional gaming machine, each control time (control time for special symbol variation display, control time for round execution, etc.) constituting the special symbol game was measured using an individual timer function. A separate time count area was provided for each control time constituting the special symbol game in the RAM storage area of the main control unit. On the other hand, in the present embodiment, as described above, the series of control times of the special symbol game is measured using one timer function, so that the calculation load can be effectively reduced. In addition, according to the present embodiment, the special symbol display 4a (or 4b) in the execution period of the special symbol variation display is configured to cyclically display three 7-segment display modes in turn every 48 milliseconds. For the switching time measurement, a timer function (see 12A in FIG. 10 (3)) different from the timer function (see 11A in FIG. 10 (3)) is used. Therefore, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to effectively suppress the complexity of the arithmetic processing.

  FIG. 11 is an example of a conceptual diagram of a variation time table used for setting the special symbol variation display time in the area 11A. This variation time table is stored in the ROM 102 and read out to the RAM 103 for use. As shown in FIG. 11, the variation time table includes a variation pattern identification number, data indicating basic variation time (seconds), and data indicating addition variation time (seconds). The variation pattern identification number is a number for identifying a variation pattern included in variation pattern determination tables HT1-1, HT1-2, HT2-1, and HT2-2, which will be described later with reference to FIGS. The basic variation time is a basic variation time constituting a variation pattern (that is, a special symbol variation time). The added fluctuation time is an added fluctuation time constituting a fluctuation pattern. A time obtained by adding the basic fluctuation time and the addition fluctuation time is a fluctuation pattern (see FIGS. 14 to 17). For example, the variation pattern corresponding to the identification number 1 is 90.02 seconds obtained by adding the addition variation time 0.02 seconds to the basic variation time 90 seconds. For example, the variation pattern corresponding to the identification number 9 is the basic variation time. 2 seconds.

  When measuring the special symbol variation display time in the area 11A of FIG. 10 (3), the CPU 101 determines the time data ("seconds") corresponding to the variation pattern determined in step S408 of FIG. (Time indicating data) is read from the fluctuation time table (FIG. 11) of the RAM 103, and the read time data is multiplied by 250 to be converted into time data adapted to time measurement processing executed in a cycle of 4 milliseconds, The converted time data is written in the area 11A of the RAM 103. For example, when the value of the time data indicating the variation pattern “90.02 seconds” corresponding to the identification number 1 is set in the area 11A, the basic variation time 90 seconds and the addition variation time 0.02 from the variation time table of the RAM 103. The time data indicating the second is read and added, and the added time data is multiplied by 250 to be converted into time data “22505” adapted to the arithmetic processing with a period of 4 milliseconds, and the converted time data “22505” is converted into the RAM 103. Is written in the area 11A. In addition, for reference, time data that is multiplied by 250 and adapted to a calculation process with a period of 4 milliseconds is described on the side of the variation time table in FIG. Things (see values in parentheses) are adjusted to natural numbers by rounding off.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, the time data indicating the variation pattern (special symbol variation time) of the variation time table stored in the ROM 102 and read out to the RAM 103 is changed to the data indicating the time of “second” (that is, the division value). Time data (refer to the basic variation time portion of FIG. 11), and when setting the special symbol variation time, multiply by 250 to adapt to the calculation process of the cycle of 4 milliseconds (that is, the time of the multiplication value) Data; see the right side of the variable time table in FIG. Therefore, according to the present embodiment, the data indicating the special symbol variation time in the variation time table may be suppressed to a data amount of 1 byte or less (see identification number 9 in FIG. 11). The used memory area can be effectively suppressed. In addition, according to the present embodiment, for example, a special symbol variation time exceeding 90 bytes, such as a special symbol variation time of 90.02 seconds, the special symbol variation time in which the data amount exceeds 1 byte is indicated by the time of the additional variation time. A variable time table is configured by dividing the data (time data indicating the time after the decimal point) (see FIG. 11). Here, in FIG. 11, the same time data value is described for each variation pattern in the table of the added variation time portion for convenience of explanation, but actually the same time data value is duplicated in this table. Only one is stored. For example, in the table of the added fluctuation time part, three time data values of 0.01 seconds are shown for convenience of explanation in FIG. 11, but only one is actually stored. From this, according to the present embodiment, the used memory areas of the ROM 102 and the RAM 103 can be effectively suppressed. Here, in this embodiment, for the sake of simplicity of explanation, there are nine variation patterns (see FIG. 11). However, in an actual gaming machine, the variation pattern is enormous, 1000 to 10,000. For this reason, the above-described effect of suppressing the used memory area according to the present embodiment is enormous in an actual gaming machine.

  Next, a general game count process for measuring a series of control times on the normal symbol game side using one timer function will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 10 (2) shows the types of data (hereinafter referred to as “normal map side setting data”) for setting (specifying) the time to be counted on the normal symbol game side. The normal-side setting data is data for setting which period of each period (time) of the normal symbol game is measured. In each period (time) of this normal symbol game, as shown in FIG. 10 (2), “Waiting for passing the gate”, “Displaying normal symbol change”, “Displaying normal symbol stop”, “ “During electric Chu open / close control” and “during the second start port effective period” are included.

  “Waiting for gate passage” is a state (period) in which a normal symbol lottery related to this passage can be executed immediately when a game ball passes through the gate 25 to start display of fluctuation of the normal symbol. It is not during the opening / closing control of the tulip 27 (during the opening of the electric chew), it is not during the second starting port effective period, which will be described later, and it is in a state where neither the normal symbol variation display nor the specified time stop display is performed. “Normal symbol change display” is a state (period) in which a normal symbol lottery is executed in accordance with the passage of the game ball through the gate 25 and the normal symbol change display is executed on the display 4. “Normal symbol stop display” is a state (period) in which the normal symbol that has been variably displayed on the display unit 4 is completely stopped and displayed for a specified time (0.5 seconds) in a display mode for notifying the normal symbol lottery result. It is. “During electric Chu open / close control” is a state (period) in which the normal symbol lottery is won and the electric tulip 27 open / close control (electric Chu open game) is being executed. “During the second start port effective period” is a period during which a game ball winning to the second start port 22 is exceptionally recognized for a predetermined period immediately after the opening / closing control of the electric tulip 27 ends. During the opening / closing control of the electric tulip 27 (that is, even when the electric tulip 27 is closed), the game ball winning at the second starting port 22 is recognized as being effective, and the opening / closing control of the electric tulip 27 is being performed. During the period excluding the second start port effective period, the game ball winning to the second start port 22 is not recognized as effective.

  As shown in FIG. 10 (2), for example, the normal setting data “00K” is data for setting that “waiting to pass through the gate”. Further, the normal setting data is stored in the ROM 102.

  Hereinafter, a description will be given with reference to FIG. The area 11B is a timer area for measuring the passage of time for each period of the above-described ordinary symbol game (such as “ordinary symbol variation display”), and measures one passage of time by writing one piece of time data. This is a timer area. The area 10B is an area for setting the type of time to be measured in the area 11B by writing any one of the common map side setting data described with reference to FIG. In the area 12B, when the normal symbol is variably displayed on the normal symbol display 4e (see FIG. 2), two display modes of the malvaz display (the display mode in which only the circle is lit and the display in which only the symbol is lit) This is a timer area for measuring the time lapse of 48 milliseconds when executing the control of switching the display every 48 milliseconds and alternately displaying them, and writing one time data and measuring one time lapse. This is a timer area.

  The CPU 101 sets the type of period to be measured in the area 11B by writing the normal setting data in the area 10B, writes the time data to be measured in the area 11B, and every 4 milliseconds in the timer interrupt process of FIG. By subtracting the value of the time data of the area 11B by 1 by the normal game count process executed at the same time, the progress of each period of the normal symbol game is sequentially measured using one timer area (area 11B) in order. To do.

  In addition, when the normal symbol variation display time is measured in the area 11B, the CPU 101 writes predetermined time data ("12") in the area 12B and executes it every 4 milliseconds in the timer interrupt processing of FIG. When the value of the time data of the area 12B is subtracted by 1 by the usual game count process, the predetermined time data ("12") is written again and the display mode of the normal symbol is switched. As a result, when the normal symbol is variably displayed on the normal symbol display 4e, the two display modes of the malvaz display are switched every 48 milliseconds and alternately displayed.

  From the above, according to the present embodiment, the same effect as that of the special figure game counting process already described can be realized in the common figure game counting process.

  In the configuration in which the series of control times of the special symbol game described above is measured using one timer function, winning in the big winning opening 23 is effective immediately after the big winning opening effective period in the control of the big hit game. There may be a period of suspension of the extra prize opening that is not considered.

  In addition, a control configuration capable of executing the special symbol variation display and special symbol stop display by the first special symbol lottery and the special symbol variation display and special symbol stop display by the second special symbol lottery in parallel, for example, The control time for special symbol variation display and special symbol stop display by one special symbol lottery and the control time for jackpot game by winning the first special symbol lottery are measured using one timer function, while the second The control time for the special symbol variation display and special symbol stop display by the special symbol lottery and the control time for the big hit game by the winning of the second special symbol lottery may be measured using one other timer function.

  In addition, when measuring a series of control times of a special symbol game and a normal symbol game using one timer function, the elapsed time to be measured is measured by “addition” processing instead of “subtraction” processing. It is good. In this case, for example, whether or not the value of the timer (11A) on the special symbol game side has reached the time data value “125” indicating the measurement target time (for example, the special symbol stop display time of 0.5 seconds). It becomes control which judges.

  Further, as described above, in addition to storing the same time data value in the addition variation time portion table of FIG. 11 without storing them in duplicate, in the basic variation time portion table of FIG. However, the same time data value may not be stored redundantly, but only one may be stored, and the effect of suppressing the used memory area may be further enhanced.

  Moreover, you may measure the execution time of the various effects performed by the effect control part 400 grade | etc., By the method demonstrated above.

  This is the end of the description of the control time counting process.

[Start-up switch processing]
FIG. 12 is an example of a detailed flowchart of the start port switch process in step S2 of FIG. Hereinafter, the start port switch process in step S2 of FIG. 9 will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, in step S201, the CPU 101 of the main control unit 100 determines whether or not a game ball has won a prize at the first start port 21 based on an output signal from the first start port switch 111a. If the determination in step S201 is YES, the process proceeds to step S202. If the determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S207.

  In step S 202, the CPU 101 reads the upper limit value Umax 1 (“4” in the present embodiment) of the first special symbol lottery number from the ROM 102, and the first special symbol lottery number U 1 stored in the RAM 103 is the upper limit value. It is determined whether or not the value is less than Umax1. If the determination in step S202 is YES, the process proceeds to step S203, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S207.

  In step S <b> 203, the CPU 101 updates the value of the holding number U <b> 1 stored in the RAM 103 to a value obtained by adding one. Further, the CPU 101 sets a winning command in the RAM 103 for notifying the effect control unit 400 that a game ball has won the first starting port 21. This winning command is transmitted to the effect control unit 400 by the output process in step S9 of FIG. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S204.

  In step S204, the CPU 101 obtains a set of random numbers (big hit random number, symbol random number, reach random number, and variation pattern random number) used for the first special symbol lottery or the like. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S205.

  In step S205, the CPU 101 performs pre-determination processing, and stores each set of random numbers (game information) acquired in step S204 in the RAM 103 in chronological order. Specifically, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the jackpot random number of the random number set such as the jackpot random number acquired in the processing of the latest step S204 matches a predetermined value or the like stored in the ROM 102. It is determined in advance whether or not the result of the first special symbol lottery using random numbers is a big hit, whether or not a reach effect is executed, and the like. That is, the determination necessary for executing the pre-reading notice effect and the hold change notice effect is made in advance prior to the processing of steps S407 and S408 in FIG. Thereafter, each set of random numbers used for prior determination is stored in the RAM 103 in time series order. Each time the value of the holding number U1 of the first special symbol lottery is subtracted by 1 in the process of step S409 in FIG. 13 to be described later, the random number set stored in the RAM 103 is one set in order from the earliest storage time. Deleted one by one. From this, for example, when the value of the number of holdings U1 of the first special symbol lottery is “3”, the last three random number sets acquired by the process of the last three steps S204 are stored in the RAM 103 in time series order. It will be stored. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S206.

  In step S <b> 206, the CPU 101 sets a first hold number increase command for notifying that the hold number of the first special symbol lottery has increased by 1 in the RAM 103. Here, the first pending number increase command includes information (hereinafter referred to as “preliminary determination information”) indicating the result of the preliminary determination performed in the process of step S205. In addition, the 1st reservation number increase command containing this prior determination information is output by the output process of step S9 of FIG. 9, and the lottery result with respect to the 1st special symbol lottery hold is the symbol in the 1st special symbol lottery. The main control unit 100 notifies the effect control unit 400 before the change starts. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S207.

  In step S207, the CPU 101 determines whether or not a game ball has won the second start port 22 based on an output signal from the second start port switch 111b. If the determination in step S207 is YES, the process proceeds to step S208. If this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S3 (gate switch process) in FIG.

  In step S <b> 208, the CPU 101 reads the upper limit value Umax <b> 2 of the second special symbol lottery holding number from the ROM 102 (“4” in the present embodiment), and the second special symbol lottery holding number U <b> 2 stored in the RAM 103 is the upper limit. It is determined whether or not the value is less than Umax2. If the determination in step S208 is YES, the process proceeds to step S209, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S3 (gate switch process) in FIG.

  In step S209, the CPU 101 updates the value of the holding number U2 stored in the RAM 103 to a value obtained by adding 1. Further, the CPU 101 sets a winning command in the RAM 103 for notifying the effect control unit 400 that a game ball has won the second starting port 22. This winning command is transmitted to the effect control unit 400 by the output process in step S9 of FIG. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S210.

  In step S210, the CPU 101 acquires a set of random numbers (big hit random number, symbol random number, reach random number, and variation pattern random number) used for the second special symbol lottery or the like. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S211.

  In step S211, the CPU 101 performs pre-determination processing, and stores each set of random numbers (game information) acquired in step S210 in the RAM 103 in chronological order. Specifically, the CPU 101 determines the jackpot based on whether or not the jackpot random number of the random number set such as the jackpot random number acquired in the processing of the latest step S210 matches a predetermined value or the like stored in the ROM 102. It is determined in advance whether or not the result of the second special symbol lottery using a random number is a big hit, whether or not to execute a reach effect. That is, the determination necessary for executing the pre-reading notice effect and the hold change notice effect is made in advance prior to the processing of steps S407 and S408 in FIG. Thereafter, each set of random numbers used for prior determination is stored in the RAM 103 in time series order. Note that each time the value of the second special symbol lottery holding number U2 is decremented by 1 in the process of step S409 in FIG. Deleted one by one. For this reason, for example, when the value of the holding number U2 of the second special symbol lottery is “3”, the last three random number sets acquired by the processing of the last three steps S210 are stored in the RAM 103 in time series order. It will be stored. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S212.

  In step S <b> 212, the CPU 101 sets a second hold number increase command for notifying that the hold number of the second special symbol lottery has increased by 1 in the RAM 103. Here, the second pending number increase command includes information (preliminary determination information) indicating the result of the preliminary determination performed in the process of step S211. In addition, the 2nd reservation number increase command containing this prior determination information is output by the output process of step S9 of FIG. 9, and the lottery result with respect to the 2nd special symbol lottery hold becomes the symbol in the 2nd special symbol lottery. The main control unit 100 notifies the effect control unit 400 before the change starts. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S3 (gate switch process) in FIG.

[Special symbol processing]
FIG. 13 is an example of a detailed flowchart of the special symbol process in step S4 of FIG. Below, with reference to FIG. 13, the special symbol process in step S4 of FIG. 9 is demonstrated.

  First, in step S401, the CPU 101 of the main control unit 100 determines that the current state of the gaming machine 1 is a big hit game (a big hit game state) based on information stored in the RAM 103 (typically information by a flag). It is determined whether or not. That is, it is determined whether or not the big hit game (special game) that is executed when the special symbol lottery is won. If the determination in step S401 is YES, the process proceeds to step S5 (normal symbol process) in FIG. 9, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S402.

  In step S402, the CPU 101 determines whether or not it is during the special symbol variable display period by the first special symbol display 4a or the second special symbol display 4b. The special symbol variation display period here includes the special symbol stop display period (specified time; 0.5 seconds) described with reference to FIG. If the determination in step S402 is yes, the process proceeds to step S411. If the determination is no, the process proceeds to step S403.

  In step S403, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the holding number U2 stored in the RAM 103 is 1 or more (that is, whether or not the second special symbol lottery is held). If the determination in step S403 is YES, the process proceeds to step S404. If the determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S405.

  In step S <b> 404, the CPU 101 updates the hold number U <b> 2 stored in the RAM 103 to a value obtained by subtracting one. At this time, the CPU 101 reads out the random number set stored in the RAM 103 and stored in the steps S210 and S211 in FIG. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S407.

  On the other hand, in step S405, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the holding number U1 stored in the RAM 103 is 1 or more (that is, whether or not the first special symbol lottery is held). If the determination in step S405 is YES, the process proceeds to step S406. If this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S415 assuming that there is no special symbol lottery to be executed.

  In step S <b> 406, the CPU 101 updates the hold number U <b> 1 stored in the RAM 103 to a value obtained by subtracting one. At this time, the CPU 101 reads out the random number set stored in the RAM 103 and stored in the steps S204 and S205 of FIG. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S407.

  The second special symbol lottery is executed in preference to the first special symbol lottery by the processing of steps S403 to S406 described above.

  In step S407, the CPU 101 executes a big hit determination process for determining whether the result of the special symbol lottery is a big hit or a loss. Specifically, when executing the process of step S407 following the process of step S404, the CPU 101 matches the jackpot random number read from the RAM 103 in the process of step S404 with the jackpot winning value stored in the ROM 102. Whether the result of the second special symbol lottery is a big hit or a loss is determined based on whether or not to do so. On the other hand, when executing the process of step S407 following the process of step S406, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the jackpot random number read from the RAM 103 in the process of step S406 matches the jackpot winning value stored in the ROM 102. Based on this, it is determined whether the result of the first special symbol lottery is a big hit or a loss. When the result of the special symbol lottery is determined to be lost, the CPU 101 sets a lost symbol indicating that the special symbol lottery has been lost in the RAM 103 as a special symbol stop symbol in the setting information. On the other hand, when the CPU 101 determines that the result of the special symbol lottery is a big hit, which of the predetermined values stored in the ROM 102 matches the symbol random number read from the RAM 103 together with the big hit random number used for this determination? Based on this, the type of jackpot of this time is determined. In the present embodiment, as an example, there are a probabilistic big hit that is set to a probable change game state until the next big hit after the big hit game, and a normal big hit that is set to a normal game state until the next big hit after the big hit game. In the present embodiment, it is assumed that the second special symbol lottery has a higher probability of winning the odds of having a relatively large profit for the player than the first special symbol lottery. Specifically, in the second special symbol lottery, 70% is a promising big hit and 30% is a normal big hit, while in the first special symbol lottery, 40% is a promising big hit and 60% is a normal big hit. Then, the CPU 101 sets, in the RAM 103, information on the jackpot symbol representing the jackpot and the type of jackpot as information on the stop symbol of the special symbol in the setting information. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S408.

[Variation pattern selection processing]
In step S408, the CPU 101 executes variation pattern selection processing. Specifically, in step S408, the CPU 101 uses the variation pattern determination tables HT1-1 and HT1-2 shown in FIG. 14 and FIG. 15 in the normal gaming state (non-time saving state) to determine the probability variation gaming state and time saving. In the gaming state (short time state), the variation pattern is determined (selected) for each special symbol lottery using the variation pattern determination tables HT2-1 and HT2-2 shown in FIGS. Here, this variation pattern is a special symbol variation time which is a time from when the special symbol is variably displayed on the display 4 until it is stopped and displayed, and this special symbol variation time is synchronized with the execution time of the notification effect. It is the same time as the execution time of the notification effect. Hereinafter, the variation pattern determination tables HT1-1, HT1-2, HT2-1, and HT2-2 may be simply referred to as HT1-1, HT1-2, HT2-1, and HT2-2.

  First, a case where a variation pattern is selected using HT1-1 and HT1-2 shown in FIGS. 14 and 15 in the normal gaming state (non-time-short state) will be described. FIG. 14 is a table used for determining a variation pattern when the first special symbol lottery is executed in the process of step S407 in the normal gaming state (non-time saving state). FIG. 15 is a table used for determining the variation pattern when the second special symbol lottery is executed in the process of step S407 in the normal gaming state (non-time saving state).

[Non-time-short state / variation pattern selection process in the first special symbol lottery]
Hereinafter, the determination of the variation pattern when the first special symbol lottery is executed in the process of step S407 in the normal gaming state (non-short-time state) will be described with reference to FIG.

  In step S408, when the CPU 101 determines that the result of the first special symbol lottery is a big win in the big hit determination process in step S407, the CPU 101 determines a fluctuation pattern (special symbol fluctuation time) based on the fluctuation pattern random number. Specifically, the CPU 101 determines that the variation pattern random number (any one of 0 to 299) read from the RAM 103 together with the big hit random number used in the big hit determination process in step S407 is the “big hit” of HT1-1. The variation pattern (special symbol variation time) is determined based on which of the random number values assigned to each variation pattern of the portion of (). For example, when the variation pattern random number read from the RAM 103 together with the jackpot random number used in the jackpot determination process in step S407 is “92”, the CPU 101 determines that the variation pattern “90.01” of the “big hit” portion of HT1-1. Since it is included in the random value “20 to 299” assigned to “second”, “90.01 seconds” is determined as the variation pattern. Here, as shown in HT1-1, the variation patterns “15.01 seconds”, “60.01 seconds”, and “90.01 seconds” of the “big hit” part are the types of effect patterns of the notification effect, respectively. It corresponds to “per reach”, “per SP”, and “per SPSP”. In addition, “per reach” is a type that hits big after reaching reach, “per SP” is a type that hits big after finally developing to SP reach, and “per SPSP” finally developed to SPSP reach. It is the type that will hit later.

  Note that the reach (reach effect) is, for example, when a changing decorative symbol that is stopped last among a plurality of decorative symbols in a notification effect is stopped and displayed with a specific symbol. It is an effect that expects to be a big hit symbol pattern together with the symbol. Typically, the right and left decorative symbols are stopped at the same symbol (for example, 7), and the central ornament that stops at the end This is an effect that is variably displayed in the expectation that the symbol stops at the same symbol (for example, 7) (that is, it becomes a doublet 777). The SP reach is generally referred to as super reach or special reach, and is an effect that further expects to win more than reach, for example, an effect of a moving image in which a hero character plays a mini game. In addition, SPSP reach is generally called super super reach or special special reach, and is an effect that further expects a big hit than SP reach production. For example, it is a production of a moving image in which a hero character fights against an enemy character. is there.

  In step S408, if the CPU 101 determines that the result of the first special symbol lottery is a loss in the jackpot determination process in step S407, the number of first special symbol lottery hold (U1), the reach random number, and the fluctuation pattern A variation pattern (special symbol variation time) is determined based on the random number.

  Specifically, when the number of pending first special symbol lottery is “0”, the CPU 101 reads the reach random number (of 0 to 99) read from the RAM 103 together with the big hit random number used in the big hit determination process in step S407. Is included in the reach random number value range “0 to 79” or the reach random number value range “80 to 99” in the portion of the hold number “0” of “lost” in HT1-1. judge.

  Then, when the read reach random number is included in the reach random number value range “0 to 79”, the CPU 101 detects the variation pattern random number (0) read from the RAM 103 together with the big hit random number used in the big hit determination process in step S407. ˜299) is included in the variation pattern random value range “0-149” or in the variation pattern random value range “150-299”. Then, when the fluctuation pattern random number is included in the fluctuation pattern random value range “0 to 149”, the CPU 101 determines “12.02 seconds” as the fluctuation pattern, and the fluctuation pattern random number is changed to the fluctuation pattern random value range “ In the case of “150 to 299”, “12.03 seconds” is determined as the variation pattern. Here, as shown in HT1-1, the variation pattern “12.02 seconds” corresponds to the effect pattern type “special immediate losing” of the notification effect, and the variation pattern “12.03 seconds” corresponds to the notification effect. Corresponds to the type of production pattern “normally lost immediately”. Although details will be described later with reference to FIGS. 23 to 28, the types of effect patterns “special immediate lose” and “normal immediate lose” are determined by lottery by the effect control unit 400 (more precisely, the CPU 401). It is a type of production pattern that can be determined, and the production pattern type “Special Immediate Loss” has a higher probability than the production pattern type “Normal Immediate Loss”, suggesting that it is likely to be a big hit. After performing an effect that tells whether or not to develop (hereinafter referred to as an effect of production), an advance type result that does not develop into an advanced production and immediately loses without reaching reach, or a special design lottery hold This is a type of effect pattern that can determine an effect type that immediately loses without establishing reach after performing a prefetch suggestion effect based on the above.

  In addition, the roaring effect is, for example, an effect in which whether or not to develop into a pseudo-continuous effect or a reach effect, and typically, the decorative pattern is in a manner that suggests developing into a pseudo-continuous effect or a reach effect. This effect is expected to be temporarily stopped, and details thereof will be described later. Note that the temporary stop means that the player can recognize that the change of the decorative symbol has stopped in a manner that the player can recognize, and is not completely stopped. Displayed). This indicates that the special symbol is still changing.

  The pseudo-continuous effect is an effect that expects a big hit by performing an operation of temporarily changing all the decorative symbols that are changed in the notification effect and then changing them again.

  On the other hand, when the read reach random number is included in the reach random number value range “80 to 99”, the CPU 101 reads the variation pattern random number (0) read from the RAM 103 together with the big hit random number used in the big hit determination process in step S407. ˜299) is included in the variation pattern random value range allocated to each variation pattern in the above-described reach random value range “80 to 99” of HT1-1. Then, the variation pattern (special symbol variation time) is determined. For example, if the variation pattern random number read from the RAM 103 together with the jackpot random number used in the jackpot determination process in step S407 is “280”, the CPU 101 determines the variation pattern random value assigned to the variation pattern “60.02 seconds”. Since it is included in the range “244 to 285”, “60.02 seconds” is determined as the variation pattern. Here, as indicated by HT1-1, the fluctuation patterns “15.02 seconds”, “60.02 seconds”, “60.02 seconds”, and “90.02 seconds” of the above reach random number value range “80 to 99” of HT1-1. "Corresponds to the types of the effect pattern of the notification effect," Leach Loss "," SP Loss ", and" SPSP Loss ". Also, “Leach Loss” is a type that loses after the reach is established, “SP Loss” is a type that finally loses after reaching SP reach, and “SPSP Loss” is finally developed after becoming SPSP reach. It is a type that loses.

  When the number of the first special symbol lottery is “1”, the CPU 101 determines the variation pattern basically in the same manner as when the number of the first special symbol lottery is “0”. However, when the number of the first special symbol lottery is “1”, the CPU 101, as shown in HT1-1, in contrast to the case where the number of the first special symbol lottery is “0” as described above. When the reach random value range “0-79” is replaced with “0-84”, the reach random value range “80-99” is replaced with “85-99”, and the reach random value range is “0-84” , The variation pattern “2.00 seconds” to which the variation pattern random value range “0 to 49” is allocated is added, and the variation pattern random value range “0 to 149” allocated to the variation pattern “12.02 seconds” is added. Is changed to “50 to 199”, and the variation pattern is determined by the random value range in which the variation pattern random value range “150 to 299” assigned to the variation pattern “12.03 seconds” is replaced with “200 to 299”. . Here, as shown in HT1-1, the variation pattern “2.00 seconds” corresponds to the effect pattern type “normally lost” of the notification effect, but the effect control unit 400 (more accurately, The CPU 401) cannot determine the content of the effect by lottery, does not execute the scolding effect or the pre-reading effect, and corresponds to the effect type that immediately loses without reaching reach.

  When the number of the first special symbol lottery is “2”, the CPU 101 determines the variation pattern basically in the same manner as when the number of the first special symbol lottery is “0”. However, when the holding number of the first special symbol lottery is “2”, the CPU 101, as shown in HT1-1, with respect to the case where the holding number of the first special symbol lottery is “0”, Reach random value range “0-79” is replaced with “0-89”, reach random value range “80-99” is replaced with “90-99”, and reach random value range is “0-89” , The variation pattern “2.00 seconds” to which the variation pattern random value range “0 to 229” is allocated is added, and the variation pattern random value range “0 to 149” allocated to the variation pattern “12.02 seconds” is added. Is changed to “230 to 279”, and the variation pattern is determined by the random value range in which the variation pattern random value range “150 to 299” assigned to the variation pattern “12.03 seconds” is replaced with “280 to 299”. .

  When the number of the first special symbol lottery is “3”, the CPU 101 determines the variation pattern basically in the same manner as when the number of the first special symbol lottery is “0”. However, when the number of holdings of the first special symbol lottery is “3”, the CPU 101, as shown in HT1-1, with respect to the case where the number of holdings of the first special symbol lottery is “0”, Reach random value range “0-79” is replaced with “0-94”, reach random value range “80-99” is replaced with “95-99”, and reach random value range is “0-94” , The variation pattern “2.00 seconds” to which the variation pattern random value range “0-269” is allocated is added, and the variation pattern random value range “0-149” allocated to the variation pattern “12.02 seconds” is added. Is replaced with “270-289”, and the variation pattern is determined by the random value range in which the variation pattern random value range “150-299” assigned to the variation pattern “12.03 seconds” is replaced with “290-299”. .

  Note that the variation pattern corresponding to “per SPSP”, “per SP”, “per reach”, “SPSP loss”, “SP loss”, and “reach loss” is, as described above, a big hit pattern pattern. Since this is a variation pattern in which reach, which is an expected production, is always established, it is a variation pattern that suggests to the player that there is a high possibility of winning a big hit. These fluctuation patterns are fluctuations that can determine an effect type in which an effect content that produces an effect that develops into an advanced effect after performing a roaring effect is determined by lottery by the effect control unit 400 (more precisely, the CPU 401). It is a pattern.

  As described above using the variation pattern determination table HT1-1 shown in FIG. 14, the smaller the number of the first special symbol lottery hold in the normal gaming state (non-time-short state), the variation pattern with reach (that is, “SPSP loss”, “SP loss” and “variation pattern corresponding to“ reach loss ”) are easily selected. Also, as a variation pattern without reach, it corresponds to the production pattern of “Special Immediate Loss”, which is a type that produces a higher probability of hitting than “Normal Immediate Loss” among “Special Immediate Loss” and “Normal Immediate Loss” The variation pattern (12.02 seconds; variation pattern identification field number 8) capable of executing the turn effect is easily selected as the variation pattern corresponding to the effect pattern of “normally lost immediately”. In other words, the smaller the number of first special symbol lotteries held, the easier it is to select a variation pattern that can execute a turn effect. In addition, “12.03 seconds” is determined as a variation pattern corresponding to “special immediate lose” regardless of the number of first special symbol lotteries held. On the other hand, if the number of first special symbol lottery hold is “0” as a variation pattern corresponding to “normal instant lose”, a long variation pattern of “12.02 seconds” is determined, and the first special symbol lottery hold When the number is “1” to “3”, a short variation pattern of “2.00 seconds” can be determined.

  In the above description using the variation pattern determination table HT1-1 shown in FIG. 14, when the number of first special symbol lottery is “0”, the variation pattern corresponding to “usually lost immediately” is “12”. .02 seconds "long variation pattern is determined, and if the number of first special symbol lottery hold is" 1 "to" 3 ", the variation pattern corresponding to" Normal Immediate Loss "is" 2.00 seconds " Although a short variation pattern can be determined, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, when the number of the first special symbol lottery is “0”, a short variation pattern of “2.00 seconds” can be determined as a variation pattern corresponding to “usually lost immediately”, and the first special symbol lottery When the number of holds is “1” to “3”, a long variation pattern of “12.02 seconds” may be determined as the variation pattern corresponding to “normally lost immediately”.

[Non-time-short state / variation pattern selection process in the second special symbol lottery]
The determination of the variation pattern when the second special symbol lottery is executed in the process of step S407 in the normal gaming state (non-short-time state) will be described below with reference to FIG. In step S408, the CPU 101 determines a variation pattern by performing basically the same processing as the variation pattern determination processing described with reference to FIG. However, the CPU 101 performs processing for the first special symbol lottery using HT1-1 in the variation pattern determination processing described with reference to FIG. 14, whereas in the variation pattern determination processing illustrated in FIG. It is different in that processing is performed on the second special symbol lottery using HT1-2 shown in FIG. Here, HT1-2 shown in FIG. 15 is different from HT1-1 shown in FIG. 14 in that “the number of holdings of the first special symbol lottery” is replaced with “the number of holdings of the second special lottery”. Only. In other words, while the variation pattern determination process described with reference to FIG. 14 takes into account the number of first special symbol lottery holds, the variation pattern determination process takes into account the number of second special symbol lottery holds. The

  In the variation pattern determination table HT1-2 shown in FIG. 15 above, when the number of reserved special symbol lotteries is “0”, the variation pattern corresponding to “usually lost immediately” is “12.02 seconds”. When the second special symbol lottery holding number is “1” to “3”, a short variation pattern of “2.00 seconds” is selected as the variation pattern corresponding to “normally lost immediately”. It is supposed to be determinable, but is not limited to this. For example, when the second special symbol lottery holding number is “0”, a short variation pattern of “2.00 seconds” can be determined as a variation pattern corresponding to “normally lost immediately”, and the second special symbol lottery When the number of holds is “1” to “3”, a long variation pattern of “12.02 seconds” may be determined as the variation pattern corresponding to “normally lost immediately”.

[Time-short state / variation pattern selection process in the first special symbol lottery]
The determination of the variation pattern when the first special symbol lottery is executed in the process of step S407 in the probability variation gaming state or the short time gaming state (short time state) will be described below with reference to FIG. In step S408, the CPU 101 determines a variation pattern by performing basically the same processing as the variation pattern determination processing described with reference to FIG. However, the CPU 101 performed processing for the first special symbol lottery in the normal gaming state (non-short-time state) using HT1-1 in the variation pattern determination processing described with reference to FIG. This variation pattern determination processing is different in that processing is performed for the first special symbol lottery in the probability variation gaming state using HT2-1 shown in FIG. Here, in HT1-1 shown in FIG. 14, when the number of first special symbol lottery holds is “1” to “3”, the variation pattern “2.00 seconds” (usually corresponding to the immediate loss) can be determined. HT2-1 shown in FIG. 16 is different in that the fluctuation pattern “2.00 seconds” cannot be determined even when the number of holdings is “1” to “3”. In other words, even if the number of first special symbol lotteries is “1” to “3”), a short variation pattern is not determined.

  In addition, in HT1-1, when the number of the first special symbol lottery is “1”, the variation pattern random value range assigned to the variation pattern “12.02 seconds” is “50 to 199”. HT2-1 is different in that the fluctuation pattern random value range assigned to the fluctuation pattern “12.02 seconds” is replaced with “0 to 199”.

  In HT1-1, when the number of first special symbol lottery hold is “2”, the variation pattern random value range “230 to 279” allocated to the variation pattern “12.02 seconds” HT2-1 is different in that the fluctuation pattern random value range allocated to the fluctuation pattern “12.02 seconds” is replaced with “0 to 279”.

  In addition, in HT1-1, when the number of the first special symbol lottery is “3”, the variation pattern random value range “270 to 289” allocated to the variation pattern “12.02 seconds” is used. HT2-1 is different in that the fluctuation pattern random value range assigned to the fluctuation pattern “12.02 seconds” is replaced with “0-289”.

[Time-short state / variation pattern selection process in the second special symbol lottery]
Hereinafter, the determination of the variation pattern when the second special symbol lottery is executed in the process of step S407 in the probability variation gaming state (short time state) will be described with reference to FIG. In step S408, the CPU 101 determines a variation pattern by performing basically the same processing as the variation pattern determination processing described with reference to FIG. However, the CPU 101 performed processing for the first special symbol lottery in the normal gaming state (non-short-time state) using HT1-1 in the variation pattern determination processing described with reference to FIG. This variation pattern determination processing is different in that processing is performed for the second special symbol lottery in the probability variation gaming state using HT2-2 shown in FIG. Here, as shown in FIG. 17, HT2-2 replaces “Holding number of first special symbol lottery” with “Holding number of second special symbol lottery” with respect to HT1-1 shown in FIG. ing. In other words, while the variation pattern determination process described with reference to FIG. 14 takes into account the number of first special symbol lottery holds, the variation pattern determination process takes into account the number of second special symbol lottery holds. The As shown in FIG. 17, in HT2-2, in the case of the second special symbol lottery holding number “0” in “losing”, when no reach is selected by the reach random number, the fluctuation pattern random value range The variation pattern “12.02 seconds” is determined in “0-149”, and the variation pattern “12.03 seconds” is determined in the variation pattern random value range “150-299”. Also, as shown in FIG. 17, in HT2-2, in the case of holding numbers “1” to “3” of the second special symbol lottery in “losing”, the fluctuation occurs when no reach is selected by the reach random number. A variation pattern “2.00 seconds” is determined in the pattern random value range “0-289”, and a variation pattern “12.03 seconds” is determined in the variation pattern random value range “290-299”. That is, when the number of holdings of the second special symbol lottery is “0”, a short fluctuation pattern of “2.00 seconds” is not determined, but the number of holdings of the second special symbol lottery is “1” to “ In the case of “3”, a short fluctuation pattern of “2.00 seconds” is easily determined.

  Here, as described in the processing in steps S403 to S406, in this embodiment, the second special symbol lottery hold is digested in preference to the first special symbol lottery hold. Further, in the probability variation gaming state or the short time gaming state (short time state), the electric tulip 27 is frequently opened for a long period of time as described in the processing in steps S5 and S7 in FIG. Frequently wins, the second special symbol lottery is executed frequently and continuously. Further, as described in the processing in step S407, the second special symbol lottery by winning the game ball to the second starting port 22 is more than the first special symbol lottery by winning the game ball to the first starting port 21. However, there are many winning ratios of probability variation big hits (big hits with a large profit for the player) that are controlled in the probability variation gaming state (short time state) until the next big hit. Therefore, conversely, if the first special symbol lottery is executed in the probability variation gaming state or the short-time gaming state (short-time state), the normal big hit (the player's profit) that is controlled to the normal gaming state It can be said that there is a greater possibility of winning a small jackpot). In the present embodiment, as described above with reference to HT2-2 in FIG. 17, in the probability variation gaming state or the short-time gaming state (short-time state), the second special symbol lottery holding number is 2 or 3 and there is no reach In the case of (2), it is easy to select a short-time variation pattern (2.00 seconds), and the second special symbol lottery hold is digested at high speed to execute a game with a sense of speed. If the number of special symbol lotteries held is “0” and there is no reach, the long-term variation pattern (12.02 seconds, 12.03 seconds) must be selected, and the first special symbol lottery that is relatively unfavorable to the player Is difficult to control. Furthermore, in the present embodiment, as described above using HT2-1 in FIG. 16, in the probability variation gaming state (short time state), it is assumed that the first special symbol lottery that is relatively disadvantageous to the player is executed. However, in all of the first special symbol lottery holding numbers 1 to 4, if there is no reach, a long-term fluctuation pattern (12.02 seconds, 12.03 seconds) must be selected, and the second start port Control is performed so as to earn time for the game 2 to win the game and the second special symbol lottery that is relatively advantageous to the player is executed.

  Information on the variation pattern determined in step S408 as described above (that is, it can be said that the execution time of the notification effect: the information about the type of the effect pattern of the notification effect) is set in the RAM 103 as setting information. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S409.

  In step S409, the CPU 101 generates a notification effect start command including the setting information set by the jackpot determination process in step S407 and the setting information set by the variation pattern selection process in step S408, and sets the notification effect start command in the RAM 103. Here, the notification effect start command is a command for instructing the effect control unit 400 to start the notification effect by the image display unit 6, the speaker 35, and the like. The setting information included in the notification effect start command includes information indicating which of the first special symbol lottery and the second special symbol lottery has been executed. Further, the CPU 101 sets a gaming state notification command indicating the current gaming state (for example, a probable variation gaming state) in the RAM 103. The notification effect start command and the gaming state notification command described above are transmitted to the effect control unit 400 by the output process in step S9 of FIG. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S410.

  In step S410, the CPU 101 changes the special symbol by the first special symbol display 4a or the second special symbol display 4b based on the setting information included in the notification effect start command set in the process of step S409. Start display. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S411.

  In step S411, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the special symbol variation time indicated by the variation pattern set in the variation pattern selection process in step S408 has elapsed since the start of the special symbol variation display in step S410. If the determination in step S411 is YES, the process proceeds to step S412. If the determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S5 (ordinary symbol process) in FIG.

  In step S <b> 412, the CPU 101 sets a notification effect stop command instructing the end of the notification effect by the image display unit 6 or the like in the RAM 103. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S413. Note that the notification effect stop command set in step S412 is transmitted to the effect control unit 400 by the output process in step S9 of FIG.

  In step S413, the CPU 101 ends the special symbol variation display by the first special symbol display 4a or the second special symbol display 4b started in the process of step S410, and the first special symbol display 4a or the second special symbol display 4b. The symbol display 4b is displayed for a predetermined time (0.5 seconds) in a state where the symbol for notifying the special symbol lottery result is stopped. At this time, the CPU 101 sets a symbol determination command in the RAM 103. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S414.

  In step S414, the CPU 101 executes a stop process. Specifically, if the CPU 101 determines that the big hit is determined in step S407, the information stored in the RAM 103 (typically, information based on a flag) is in a big hit game (a big hit gaming state). And an opening command for instructing the start of the big hit game effect is set in the RAM 103. This opening command is transmitted to the effect control unit 400 by the output process of step S9 in FIG. 9 when a predetermined time (0.5 seconds) has elapsed since the stop display of the special symbol was started in the process of step S413. The jackpot game production is started.

  In step S415, the CPU 101 determines whether a customer waiting command and a gaming state notification command indicating the current gaming state have already been transmitted in the process of step S416 (described later). Here, the customer waiting command is a command that is transmitted when there is no special symbol lottery hold at the time when the special symbol stop display is completed, and a notification effect for informing the lottery result of the special symbol lottery is executed. This is a command for notifying that it has not been made (so-called customer waiting state). If the determination in step S415 is YES, the process proceeds to step S5 (ordinary symbol process) in FIG. 9, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S416.

  In step S <b> 416, the CPU 101 sets a customer waiting command and a gaming state notification command in the RAM 103. The customer waiting command and the gaming state notification command are transmitted to the effect control unit 400 by the output process of step S9 in FIG. 9, and a predetermined stop effect (for example, an effect of displaying a decorative symbol stop) is started based on the customer waiting command. Is done. When a predetermined time (for example, 90 seconds) elapses after the stop effect described above is started, the customer waiting effect is started. Here, the customer waiting effect is, for example, an effect in which a video related to the content (animation, story, etc.) that is the subject of the gaming machine 1 is displayed on the image display unit 6, for example, a predetermined effect ( For example, the image display unit 6 displays a part of the reach effect). Thereafter, the processing moves to step S5 (normal symbol processing) in FIG.

[Large winning prize processing]
18 and 19 are an example of a detailed flowchart of the big prize opening process in step S6 of FIG. Hereinafter, the special winning opening process in step S6 of FIG. 9 will be described with reference to FIGS.

  First, in step S601, the CPU 101 of the main control unit 100 determines whether or not the state of the gaming machine 1 is a big hit game based on information stored in the RAM 103 (typically, information based on a flag). judge. If the determination in step S601 is YES, the process proceeds to step S602. If the determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S7 (electric tulip process) in FIG.

  In step S <b> 602, the CPU 101 determines based on the information stored in the RAM 103 whether or not the state of the gaming machine 1 is a jackpot game opening effect. If the determination in step S602 is YES, the process proceeds to step S603, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S609.

  In step S <b> 603, the CPU 101 determines whether or not a set opening time that defines the execution time of the opening effect has elapsed. If the determination in step S603 is YES, the process proceeds to step S604. If the determination is NO, the opening effect has not ended, and the process proceeds to step S7 (electric tulip process) in FIG.

  In step S <b> 604, the CPU 101 sets the total number of rounds Rmax for the jackpot game and the operation pattern of the jackpot 23 for the jackpot game, and sets the setting information in the RAM 103. Specifically, the CPU 101 sets the number of rounds included in the jackpot game (Rmax: “16” in this embodiment) and the operation pattern of the jackpot 23 during the jackpot game, and sets the setting information in the RAM 103. To do. By the process of step S604, the total number of rounds Rmax of the jackpot game, the interval time between rounds in the jackpot game, the set ending time that is the time for performing the ending effect at the end of the jackpot game, and the like are set. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S605.

  In step S <b> 605, the CPU 101 resets the winning number C of game balls to the big winning opening 23 stored in the RAM 103 to “0”. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S606.

  In step S <b> 606, the CPU 101 updates the round number R of the big hit game stored in the RAM 103 to a value obtained by adding one. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S607.

  In step S <b> 607, the CPU 101 controls the special winning opening / closing unit 115 to start the opening control of the special winning opening 23. By this processing, a big hit game round (round game) is started and the opening operation (one opening operation) of the big winning opening 23 is started. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S608.

  In step S <b> 608, the CPU 101 sets a round start notification command for notifying a round start (round game start) in the RAM 103. The round start notification command is transmitted to the effect control unit 400 by the output process in step S9 of FIG. 9, and the round effect is started. The round start notification command includes information indicating the total number of rounds Rmax set in step S604 and information indicating the current number of rounds R updated by the process in step S606. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S612.

  In step S609, the CPU 101 determines based on the information stored in the RAM 103 whether or not the gaming machine 1 is in the big hit game interval. If the determination in step S609 is yes, the process proceeds to step S610. If the determination is no, the process proceeds to step S611.

  In step S610, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the set interval time during the jackpot game set in the process of step S604 has elapsed from the time when the big prize opening 23 is closed at the end of the previous round during the jackpot game. To do. If the determination in step S610 is YES, it is time to start the next round in the jackpot game, so the process moves to step S605. If this determination is NO, the next round in the jackpot game is started. Since the timing is not reached, the process proceeds to step S7 (electric tulip process) in FIG.

  In step S <b> 611, the CPU 101 determines whether the state of the gaming machine 1 is executing the jackpot game ending effect based on the information stored in the RAM 103. If the determination in step S611 is YES, the process proceeds to step S621 in FIG. 19, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S612.

  In step S612, the CPU 101 determines that the state of the gaming machine 1 is in the big win game round, and based on the output signal from the big prize opening switch 114, whether or not the game ball has won the big prize opening 23. Determine whether. If the determination in step S612 is YES, the process moves to step S613. If the determination is NO, the process moves to step S614.

  In step S <b> 613, the CPU 101 determines that a winning of game balls to the big winning opening 23 has been detected, and updates the winning number C of game balls stored in the RAM 103 to a value obtained by adding one. The processing in step S613 is executed each time a game ball wins the big winning opening 23, so that the total number of game balls (winning number C) won in the big winning opening 23 during one round is accumulated and stored in the RAM 103. To go. In addition, the CPU 101 sets a winning command for notifying the effect control unit 400 that a game ball has won the big winning opening 23 in the RAM 103. This winning command is transmitted to the effect control unit 400 by the output process in step S9 in FIG. 9, and the winning process instruction in step S125 in FIG. 22 is executed. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S614.

  In step S614, the CPU 101 determines whether or not a specified opening control time (29.5 seconds in the present embodiment) has elapsed since the opening control of the special winning opening 23 was started in the process of step S607. If the determination in step S614 is yes, the process moves to step S616. If the determination is no, the process moves to step S615.

  In step S615, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the number C of winning game balls in the current round has reached an upper limit number of gaming balls Cmax (“10” in the present embodiment) that defines the timing at which the big winning opening 23 is closed. Determine. If the determination in step S615 is yes, the process proceeds to step S616. If the determination is no, the process proceeds to step S7 (electric tulip process) in FIG.

  In step S616, the CPU 101 controls the special winning opening / closing unit 115 to end the opening control of the special winning opening 23 started in step S607. In this way, the CPU 101 counts the total number of game balls (winning number C) detected by the big prize opening switch 114 until 29.5 seconds elapse after the big prize opening 23 is opened in each round during the big hit game. ) Has reached 10 (Cmax), or 29.5 seconds have passed without winning 10 game balls since opening the grand prize opening 23, and the big prize opening 23 is closed. . Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S617.

  In step S617, the CPU 101 sets a round end notification command for notifying the end of round (round game end) in the RAM 103. This round start notification command is transmitted to the effect control unit 400 by the output process in step S9 of FIG. 9, and the round effect is ended. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S618.

  In step S618, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the current round number R stored in the RAM 103 has reached the maximum round number Rmax of the big hit game set in the process of step S604. If the determination in step S618 is YES, the process proceeds to step S619 in FIG. 19, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S7 (electric tulip process) in FIG.

  In step S619 in FIG. 19, the CPU 101 resets the round number R stored in the RAM 103 to “0”. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S620.

  In step S620, the CPU 101 sets an ending command for instructing the effect control unit 400 to execute the ending effect of the big hit game in the RAM 103. The ending command set in this process is transmitted to the effect control unit 400 in step S9 (output process) in FIG. As this ending command, a command corresponding to the jackpot symbol (that is, the type of jackpot) and the game state controlled after the jackpot game is finished is transmitted, and the effect control unit 400 performs the ending effect based on this ending command. The effect after the end (after the end of the big hit game effect) is controlled. Specifically, when the ending command corresponding to the jackpot symbol indicating the probability variation jackpot is transmitted, the effect control unit 400 notifies in the effect mode indicating the probability variation gaming state after the jackpot game effect is ended based on the ending command. Perform the production. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S621.

  In step S621, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the set ending time set in step S604 in FIG. 18 has elapsed since the ending command was set in the RAM 103 in step S620. If the determination in step S621 is YES, the process moves to step S622. If the determination is NO, the process moves to step S7 (electric tulip process) in FIG.

  In step S622, the CPU 101 ends the jackpot game being executed. Specifically, the CPU 101 cancels the setting information (typically, information based on a flag) indicating that a big hit game stored in the RAM 103 is in progress, and ends the big hit game. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S623.

  In step S623, the CPU 101 executes a game state setting process. Specifically, when the jackpot game is ended in step S622, the CPU 101 switches the gaming state according to the type of jackpot (the jackpot symbol) this time (that is, the winning probability setting of the special symbol lottery and the electric tulip 27) Switch open settings). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S7 (electric tulip process) in FIG.

[Timer interrupt processing by production control unit]
FIG. 20 is a flowchart illustrating an example of timer interrupt processing performed by the effect control unit 400. Below, with reference to FIG. 20, the timer interruption process performed in the production | presentation control part 400 is demonstrated. The effect control unit 400 repeatedly executes a series of processes shown in FIG. 20 at regular time intervals (4 milliseconds) during a normal operation except for special cases such as when the power is turned on or when the power is turned off. In addition, the process performed in the production | presentation control part 400 demonstrated based on the flowchart after FIG. 20 is performed based on the program memorize | stored in ROM402.

  First, in step S11, the CPU 401 of the effect control unit 400 receives various commands output from the main control unit 100 by the output process of step S9 in FIG. 9, sets the effect contents according to the received command, A command reception process for setting various commands in the RAM 403 for instructing the image sound control unit 500 or the like to execute the effect of the set effect content is executed. This command reception process will be described in detail later with reference to FIGS.

  Next, in step S12, the CPU 401 executes an output process for outputting various commands set in the RAM 403 in the process of step S11 to the image sound control unit 500 or the like. By this process, various effects determined to be executed in the process of step S11 are executed by the image display unit 6, the speaker 35, the panel lamp 8, and the like by the execution control of the image sound control unit 500 and the like.

  Note that each time the timer interrupt process described above is executed, the CPU 401 performs a random number update process for updating various effect random numbers used to determine the effect. In this random number update process as well, a loop counter is typically used as in the random number update process in step S1 of FIG. After reaching, it returns to 0 again (that is, it circulates). Also, in this random number update process, each effect random number counter updates the initial value (the value that is the starting point of circulation) at random once it circulates. As a result, the counter value (count value) can be prevented from synchronizing between these effect random numbers.

[Command reception processing]
21 and 22 are examples of detailed flowcharts of the command reception process in step S11 of FIG. Hereinafter, the command reception process in step S11 of FIG. 20 will be described with reference to FIG. 21 and FIG.

  First, in step S111 in FIG. 21, the CPU 401 of the effect control unit 400 determines whether or not a hold increase command (first hold number increase command or second hold number increase command) is received from the main control unit 100 ( (See steps S206 and S212 in FIG. 12). If the determination in step S111 is YES, the process proceeds to step S112. If the determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S114.

  In step S112, the CPU 401 instructs the image sound control unit 500 in response to the hold increase command received in the process of step S111, and displays a hold image additional display process indicating the hold of the special symbol lottery on the image display unit 6. Then, the hold image display process for changing the hold image to the prefetch display mode is performed. The displayed on-hold images are sequentially deleted when the notification effect is started based on the processing in step S115 described later. Also, the instruction to the image sound control unit 500 is performed by setting a command in the RAM 403. In addition, when the CPU 401 receives the first hold number increase command, the RAM 403 causes the RAM 403 to store one piece of data (hold data) indicating the hold of the first special symbol lottery in time series, while the second hold number When the increase command is received, the RAM 403 stores one piece of data (holding data) indicating the holding of the second special symbol lottery in time series order. At that time, the CPU 401 extracts pre-determination information included in the hold increase command, includes it in the above-described hold data, and stores it in the RAM 403. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S113.

  In step S113, the CPU 401 performs a prefetch notice effect setting process. Specifically, the CPU 401 stores the special symbol lottery holding number (the number of holding data) stored in the RAM 403 more than 2 including the holding added in step S112, and stores it in the RAM 403 most recently. Whether or not to execute the pre-reading notice effect is determined by lottery or the like based on the prior determination information (that is, included in the latest pending data). For example, the CPU 401 determines that the prior determination information indicates “big hit”, “losing” and “reach effect” (reach effect), or “losing” and “reach effect”. In each of the cases indicating “None” (no reach reach), a pre-read random number (effect random number) is acquired, and when the pre-read random number matches a predetermined pre-read winning value, it is determined to execute the pre-read notice effect. . It should be noted that different numbers may be set for the pre-reading winning values depending on whether the pre-determination information is “big hit”, “losing with reach”, or “losing without reach”. Specifically, by setting the number of prefetch winning values in the case of “big hit” larger than the number of prefetching winning values in the case of “losing with reach”, a prefetching notice effect is easily performed in the case of “big hit”. It may be a thing. If it is determined to execute the pre-reading notice effect, the CPU 401 performs a pre-reading notice to be executed by lottery or the like from a number of pre-reading notice effect patterns that satisfy the conditions of the prior determination information (such as the condition of whether or not a big hit) Set the contents of the production. That is, as the pre-reading notice effect, what kind of notice effect is performed in each notification effect is set. Note that the pre-reading notice effect is a notice effect that suggests the possibility of a big hit over a plurality of notification effects, for example. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S114.

  In step S114, the CPU 401 determines whether or not the notification effect start command and the gaming state notification command set in step S409 of FIG. 13 have been received. If the determination in step S114 is YES, the process proceeds to step S115, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S116.

  In step S115, the CPU 401 sets the effect content of the notification effect by the image display unit 6 or the like according to the notification effect start command received in the process of step S114, and executes the notification effect of the set content. A notification effect setting process for instructing and starting 500 or the like is performed. Here, the notification effect (variation effect) is an effect that is executed in the image display unit 6 or the like according to the variation display of the special symbol and suggests the result of the special symbol lottery. For example, the decorative symbol is variably displayed. This is an effect in which the result of the special symbol lottery is notified when the decorative symbol that is variably displayed is stopped and displayed. Note that an instruction to the image sound control unit 500 or the like is performed by setting a command in the RAM 403. This notification effect setting process will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S116.

  In step S116, the CPU 401 determines whether or not the notification effect stop command set in the process of step S412 in FIG. 13 has been received. If the determination in step S116 is YES, the process proceeds to step S117, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S120 in FIG.

  In step S117, the CPU 401 instructs the image sound control unit 500 or the like to end the notification effect started to be executed in the process of step S115, and finally stops all the decorative symbols that have been variably displayed (specified). The result of the special symbol lottery is announced in a staging manner (with a fixed stop display for a time (0.5 seconds)). Note that an instruction to the image sound control unit 500 or the like is performed by setting a command in the RAM 403. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S120 in FIG.

  In step S120 of FIG. 22, the CPU 401 determines whether or not the opening command set in the stopping process of step S414 of FIG. 13 has been received. If the determination in step S120 is yes, the process proceeds to step S121. If the determination is no, the process proceeds to step S122.

  In step S121, the CPU 401 issues an opening effect instruction. Specifically, the CPU 401 instructs the image sound control unit 500 to start the opening effect of the big hit game effect. Here, the opening effect is an effect for notifying the start of the big hit game, and is typically an image effect that prompts the player to launch a game ball toward the big prize opening 23. The instruction to the image sound control unit 500 or the like is performed by setting a command in the RAM 403. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S122.

  In step S122, the CPU 401 determines whether or not the round start notification command set in the process of step S608 in FIG. 18 has been received. If the determination in step S122 is YES, the process proceeds to step S123, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S124.

  In step S123, the CPU 401 issues a round effect start instruction. Specifically, the CPU 401 instructs the image sound control unit 500 to start a round effect process of a big hit game effect. Here, the round effect is an effect executed during a round game of the big hit game, for example, an effect by an image or the like in which the main character is fighting an enemy character. Note that an instruction to the image sound control unit 500 or the like is performed by setting a command in the RAM 403. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S124.

  In step S124, the CPU 401 determines whether or not a winning command set in the process of step S613 in FIG. 18 and output in the output process of step S9 in FIG. 9 has been received. If the determination in step S124 is YES, the process proceeds to step S125, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S126.

  In step S125, the CPU 401 issues a winning process instruction. Specifically, the CPU 401 instructs the image sound control unit 500 to start a winning process. Here, the CPU 501 of the image sound control unit 500 that has received an instruction to start the winning process from the effect control unit 400, based on the winning command received via the effect control unit 400, each winning port (first start port). 21, the second starting port 22, the big winning port 23, the normal winning port 24) are counted and stored in the RAM 503. In addition, when the CPU 501 receives a winning command based on a game ball winning at the big winning opening 23 (that is, when one gaming ball wins at the big winning opening 23), the number of winning balls corresponding to the big winning opening 23 is "13". Is added to the total number of prize balls stored in the RAM 503 and updated, and the updated total number of prize balls is displayed on the image display unit 6. Note that an instruction to the image sound control unit 500 or the like is performed by setting a command in the RAM 403. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S126.

  In step S126, the CPU 401 determines whether or not the round end notification command set in the process of step S617 in FIG. 18 has been received. If the determination in step S126 is YES, the process proceeds to step S127, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S128.

  In step S127, the CPU 401 instructs the image sound control unit 500 or the like to end the round effect of the big hit game effect. Note that an instruction to the image sound control unit 500 or the like is performed by setting a command in the RAM 403. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S128.

  In step S128, the CPU 401 determines whether or not the ending command set in the process of step S620 in FIG. 19 has been received. If the determination in step S128 is YES, the process proceeds to step S129, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S130.

  In step S129, the CPU 401 issues an ending effect instruction. Specifically, the CPU 401 instructs the image sound control unit 500 to start the ending effect of the big hit game effect. Here, the ending effect is an effect of notifying the end of the big hit game, and is typically an effect of displaying the mark of the manufacturer of the gaming machine 1. Note that an instruction to the image sound control unit 500 or the like is performed by setting a command in the RAM 403. Thereafter, the process proceeds to S130.

  In step S130, the CPU 401 determines whether or not the customer waiting command and the gaming state notification command set in the process of step S416 in FIG. 13 have been received. If the determination in step S130 is YES, the process proceeds to step S131. If this determination is NO, the command reception process is terminated, and the process proceeds to step S12 in FIG.

  In step S131, the CPU 401 instructs the image sound control unit 500 based on the customer waiting command and the gaming state notification command received in step S130 to start the stop state process. Then, the command reception process is terminated, and the process proceeds to step S12 in FIG. Here, the stop state process is a process that is started when a so-called customer waiting state is entered, and the CPU 501 of the image sound control unit 500 instructed to start the stop state process has a predetermined value corresponding to the game state. A stop effect (for example, an effect in which all decorative symbols are stopped and displayed) is displayed on the image display unit 6. When the CPU 501 does not receive an instruction for another effect from the CPU 401 when a predetermined time (for example, 90 seconds) has elapsed since the start of the stop effect described above, the CPU 501 starts the customer waiting effect. Note that the customer waiting effect is, for example, an effect of causing the image display unit 6 to display a video related to the content (animation, story, etc.) that is the subject of the gaming machine 1, or a predetermined effect (eg, reach effect) executed during the game. ) Is displayed on the image display unit 6. The instruction to the image sound control unit 500 is performed by setting a command in the RAM 403. However, if the CPU 501 is notified of the information indicating that the game ball has passed through the gate 25 or the information indicating that the game ball has won the normal winning opening, the CPU 501 continues without stopping the stop state process. .

[Notification effect setting processing according to this embodiment]
Next, the notification effect setting process by the effect control unit 400 will be described with reference to FIGS. Here, the outline of the present embodiment will be described. The gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment is special after it has developed into a development effect after performing a roaring effect as a notification effect based on the variation pattern determined by the CPU 101. About the 1st alerting | reporting effect which alert | reports the result of a symbol lottery, the 2nd alerting | reporting effect which alert | reports that the result of a special symbol lottery is lost without developing into a development effect but a special symbol lottery pending After performing the pre-read suggestion effect, without performing the reach effect (without reaching reach), performing the third notification effect, the reach effect, the curl effect, and the pre-read suggestion effect to notify that the result of the special symbol lottery is lost. Any one of the fourth notification effects for notifying the result of the special symbol lottery can be executed. In the present embodiment, an example in which one of the first notification effect to the fourth notification effect is executed as the notification effect executed based on the first special symbol lottery will be described. Further, when the notification effect is executed based on the second special symbol lottery, the “first special symbol lottery” may be replaced with “second special symbol lottery” in the following description.

  23 and 24 are detailed flowcharts showing an example of the notification effect setting process in step S115 of FIG. FIG. 25 shows an effect random number inquiry table for determining the effect type, which is used when the variation pattern identification number is 7 and there is no big win in the first special symbol lottery currently on hold. It is an example. FIG. 26 shows an effect random number inquiry table for determining the effect type, which is used when the variation pattern identification number is 7 and there is a big hit in the first special symbol lottery currently on hold. It is an example. FIG. 27 shows an effect random number inquiry table for determining the effect type, which is used when the variation pattern identification number is 8 and there is no big win in the first special symbol lottery currently on hold. It is an example. FIG. 28 shows an effect random number inquiry table for determining the effect type, which is used when the variation pattern identification number is 8 and there is a big win in the first special symbol lottery currently held. It is an example.

  First, in step S701 in FIG. 23, the CPU 401 of the effect control unit 400 analyzes the notification effect start command received in step S114 in FIG. 21, and acquires setting information included in the notification effect start command. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S702.

  In step S702, the CPU 401 determines the effect pattern of the notification effect based on the variation pattern information included in the setting information acquired in step S701. Specifically, if the variation pattern information included in the setting information indicates the variation pattern identification number 1 (the effect pattern type is SPSP loss), the CPU 401 determines that the CPU 401 has a plurality of types of SPSP reach. One SPSP reach effect to be executed is determined by lottery or the like from the effects, and after executing the determined SP reach effect, it is determined to notify that the special symbol lottery has been lost. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S703.

  In step S703, based on the setting information acquired in step S701, the CPU 401 indicates that the variation pattern information included in the setting information indicates any of the variation pattern identification numbers 1 to 6 (the effect pattern type is SPSP). It is determined whether or not it is any one of lost, SPSP, SP lost, SP, reach lose, and reach). If the determination in step S703 is yes, the process proceeds to step S704. If the determination is no, the process proceeds to step S707 in FIG.

  In step S704, the CPU 401 determines whether or not to execute a pseudo-continuous effect. Specifically, the CPU 401 executes the pseudo-continuous effect with reference to a table that defines the ratio of whether or not to execute the pseudo-continuous effect in the notification effect of the variation patterns with the identification numbers 1 to 6 of the variation pattern. Whether or not is determined based on the lottery. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S705.

  In step S <b> 705, the CPU 401 determines whether or not to execute a pseudo-joint effect. Specifically, the CPU 401 refers to a table that defines the ratio of whether or not to execute the pseudo-joint effect in the notice pattern of the change patterns with the identification numbers 1 to 6 of the change pattern, and performs the pseudo-joint effect. Whether or not to execute is determined based on the lottery. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S706.

  In step S <b> 706, the CPU 401 determines whether or not to execute reach production. Specifically, the CPU 401 refers to a table that defines the ratio of whether or not to execute reach reach effects in the change pattern notification effects of the variation pattern identification numbers 1 to 6 and executes reach reach effects. Whether or not is determined based on the lottery. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S720 in FIG.

  24, based on the setting information acquired in step S701 in FIG. 23, the CPU 401 indicates that the variation pattern information included in the setting information indicates the variation pattern identification number 7 (the type of the effect pattern is It is determined whether or not it is special instant loss. If the determination in step S707 is yes, the process proceeds to step S708. If the determination is no, the process proceeds to step S711.

  In step S <b> 708, the CPU 401 includes a pre-determined jackpot in the first special symbol lottery currently on hold based on the pre-determination information notified from the main control unit 100 and stored in the RAM 403. It is determined whether or not. If the determination in step S708 is YES, the process proceeds to step S710, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S709.

  In step S709, the CPU 401 selects an effect type determination table ET1-1 (see FIG. 25) from among a plurality of effect type determination tables (see FIGS. 25 to 28). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S715.

  In step S710, the CPU 401 selects an effect type determination table ET1-2 (see FIG. 26) from a plurality of effect type determination tables (see FIGS. 25 to 28). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S715.

  In step S711, based on the setting information acquired in step S701, the CPU 401 indicates that the variation pattern information included in the setting information indicates the variation pattern identification number 8 (the effect pattern type is usually immediately lost) It is determined whether or not the fluctuation time is 12.02 seconds. If the determination in step S711 is YES, the process moves to step S712. If the determination is NO, the process moves to step S720.

  In step S <b> 712, the CPU 401 has a pre-determined jackpot among the first special symbol lotteries currently on hold based on the pre-determined information notified from the main control unit 100 and stored in the RAM 403. It is determined whether or not. If the determination in step S712 is yes, the process proceeds to step S714. If the determination is no, the process proceeds to step S713.

  In step S713, the CPU 401 selects an effect type determination table ET2-1 (see FIG. 27) from among a plurality of effect type determination tables (see FIGS. 25 to 28). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S715.

  In step S714, the CPU 401 selects an effect type determination table ET2-2 (see FIG. 28) from among a plurality of effect type determination tables (see FIGS. 25 to 28). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S715.

[Production type determination process]
In step S715, the CPU 401 determines an effect type based on an effect random number or the like using the effect type determination table selected in any of the processes in steps S709, S7010, S713, and S714. 25 to 28 are examples of the effect type determination table set based on whether or not there is a big hit in the change pattern identification number and the first special symbol lottery hold. Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 25 to 28, the processing in step S715 will be described in detail. In the following, the effect type determination tables ET1-1, ET1-2, ET2-1, and ET2-2 shown in FIGS. 25 to 28 are simply referred to as ET1-1, ET1-2, ET2-1, and ET2-. There may be two.

[Fluctuation pattern identification number 7 / Production type determination process without a big hit on hold]
In the following, with reference to FIG. 25, description will be given of the determination of the effect type in the case of being executed following the processing of step S709.

  In ET1-1 shown in FIG. 25, the range of the effect random value used for determining which effect type is selected from the plurality of effect types (effect types P1 to P3) is the first special symbol lottery. Allocated according to the number of holds.

  For example, when the first special symbol lottery holding number is 0, a random value range of “0 to 49” is assigned to the production type P2 among the production random numbers of “0 to 99” and “50 to 99”. Is assigned to the production type P1. Further, when the number of first special symbol lottery hold is 1, among the random numbers of “0 to 99”, a random value range of “0 to 9” is allocated to the production type P3, and “10 to 49” Is assigned to the effect type P2, and a random value range of “50 to 99” is assigned to the effect type P1. Also, when the number of first special symbol lottery hold is 2, among the random numbers of “0 to 99”, a random value range of “0 to 19” is assigned to the production type P3, and “20 to 49” Is assigned to the effect type P2, and a random value range of “50 to 99” is assigned to the effect type P1. Further, when the number of first special symbol lottery holds is 3, among the random numbers of “0 to 99”, a random value range of “0 to 39” is assigned to the production type P3, and “40 to 49” Is assigned to the effect type P2, and a random value range of “50 to 99” is assigned to the effect type P1. Here, the effect type P1 is an effect type that notifies that the result of the special symbol lottery is a loss without executing the roaring effect and without reaching reach. In addition, the production type P2 is a production type that notifies that the result of the special symbol lottery is lost without executing the development effect and without reaching reach after executing the production effect, although the production effect P2 is executed. is there. In addition, the effect type P3 does not execute the roaring effect, and after executing the prefetch suggestion effect based on the pre-determined result for the suspension of the first special symbol lottery, the result of the special symbol lottery is lost without reaching reach. It is a production type that informs that it is.

[Variation pattern identification number 7 / Production type determination process when there is a big hit on hold]
In the following, with reference to FIG. 26, description will be given of the determination of the effect type in the case of being executed following the processing of step S710.

  In ET1-2 shown in FIG. 26, the range of the effect random value used for determining which effect type is selected from the plurality of effect types (effect types P1 to P3) is the first special symbol lottery. Allocated according to the number of holds.

  For example, when the first special symbol lottery holding number is 1, a random value range of “0 to 39” among the effect random numbers of “0 to 99” is assigned to the effect type P3, and “40 to 49” Is assigned to the effect type P2, and a random value range of “50 to 99” is assigned to the effect type P1. When the number of first special symbol lottery holds is 2, among the effect random numbers of “0 to 99”, a random value range of “0 to 44” is assigned to the effect type P3, and “45 to 49”. Is assigned to the effect type P2, and a random value range of “50 to 99” is assigned to the effect type P1. Also, when the number of first special symbol lottery hold is 3, among the random numbers of “0 to 99”, a random value range of “0 to 48” is allocated to the production type P3, and “49” A random value is assigned to the effect type P2, and a random value range of “50 to 99” is assigned to the effect type P1.

[Fluctuation pattern identification number 8 / Produce type determination process without big hits on hold]
In the following, with reference to FIG. 27, description will be given of the determination of the effect type in the case of being executed following the process of step S713.

  In ET2-1 shown in FIG. 27, the range of the effect random value used for determining which effect type is selected from among a plurality of effect types (effect types P1 to P3) is the first special symbol lottery. Allocated according to the number of holds.

  For example, when the first special symbol lottery holding number is 0, a random value range of “0-9” is assigned to the production type P2 among the production random numbers of “0-99”, and “10-99” is assigned. Is assigned to the production type P1. In addition, when the number of first special symbol lottery hold is 1, among the random numbers of “0 to 99”, a random value range of “0 to 1” is assigned to the production type P3 and “2 to 9 Is assigned to the effect type P2, and a random value range of “10 to 99” is assigned to the effect type P1. In addition, when the number of first special symbol lottery hold is 2, among the random numbers of “0 to 99”, a random value range of “0 to 3” is allocated to the production type P3, and “4 to 9 Is assigned to the effect type P2, and a random value range of “10 to 99” is assigned to the effect type P1. In addition, when the number of first special symbol lottery holds is 3, among the random numbers of “0 to 99”, a random value range of “0 to 7” is assigned to the production type P3, and “8 to 9” Is assigned to the effect type P2, and a random value range of “10 to 99” is assigned to the effect type P1.

[Fluctuation pattern identification number 8 / Production type determination process with a big hit on hold]
In the following, with reference to FIG. 28, description will be given of the determination of the effect type in the case of being executed following the process of step S714.

  In ET2-2 shown in FIG. 28, the range of effect random numbers used to determine which effect type is selected from among a plurality of effect types (effect types P1 to P3) is the first special symbol lottery. Allocated according to the number of holds.

  For example, when the first special symbol lottery holding number is 1, among the random numbers of “0 to 99”, a random value range of “0 to 6” is allocated to the production type P3, and “7 to 9” Is assigned to the effect type P2, and a random value range of “10 to 99” is assigned to the effect type P1. In addition, when the number of first special symbol lottery hold is 2, among the random numbers of “0 to 99”, a random value range of “0 to 7” is assigned to the production type P3, and “8 to 9” Is assigned to the effect type P2, and a random value range of “10 to 99” is assigned to the effect type P1. In addition, when the number of first special symbol lottery holds is 3, among the random numbers of “0 to 99”, a random value range of “0 to 8” is allocated to the production type P3, and “9” A random value is assigned to the effect type P2, and a random value range of “10 to 99” is assigned to the effect type P1.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, the effect type determination table for inquiring the effect random number extracted when the variation pattern is the identification number 7 or 8 is a big hit for the suspension of the variation pattern and the first special symbol lottery. It depends on whether there is something. In addition, if the variation pattern with the identification number 7 or 8 is determined in the production type determination table (that is, the variation pattern corresponding to the special immediate loss as the production pattern type or the normal immediate loss as the type of the production pattern) If a change pattern with a change time of 12.02 seconds is determined), an effect that does not develop into an advanced effect (execution type P2) or a prefetch suggestion effect (effect type P3) is executed after execution of the roaring effect. The contents of the production can be determined. Further, in the effect type determination table, when the variation pattern of the identification number 7 or 8 is determined, it is easier to determine that the prefetch suggestion effect is executed as the number of the first special symbol lottery is increased. . In the effect type determination table, the variation pattern of the identification number 7 or 8 is determined, and if there is a big hit in the pre-judgment result for the suspension of the first special symbol drawing, It is easier to make a decision to execute a prefetching suggestion than an effect that does not develop. In addition, in the effect type determination table, the variation pattern with the identification number 7 is determined rather than the variation pattern with the identification number 8 (that is, the effect pattern is usually determined to be immediately lost). It is easier to decide to perform an effect that does not develop into an advanced effect or a pre-read suggestion effect after executing the roaring effect, regardless of the number of reserved 1st special symbols). ing.

  In step S715 of FIG. 24, the CPU 401 stores the effect type determination table selected in any of step S709, step S710, step S713, and step S714 (any one of the effect type determination tables shown in FIGS. 25 to 28). Based on the production types P1 to P3, the production type is determined. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S716.

  In step S716, the CPU 401 determines whether or not the effect type determined in the process of step S715 is the effect type P2. If the determination in step S716 is YES, the process proceeds to step S717, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S718.

  In step S717, the CPU 401 determines the content of the roaring effect by lottery or the like. Specifically, in the present embodiment, there are two types of productions that can be expressed as whether or not to develop into reach production, and productions that include whether or not to develop into pseudo-continuous production. Which of these effects is to be executed as a hit effect is determined by lottery or the like. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S720.

  In step S718, the CPU 401 determines whether or not the effect type determined in the process of step S715 is the effect type P3. If the determination in step S718 is yes, the process moves to step S719. If the determination is no, the process moves to step S720.

  In step S719, the CPU 401 determines the content of the prefetch suggestion effect by lottery or the like. Specifically, in the present embodiment, the pre-read suggesting effects include a chance matching color effect and a hold change effect, and the CPU 401 draws a lot of which effects to execute as the pre-read suggesting effects. Determined by. Here, the same color chance effect production is stopped and displayed as a lost symbol based on the pre-determined information of the first special symbol lottery hold (hereinafter also referred to as target hold) to be prefetched suggestion stored in the RAM 403 3 The fact that the two decorative symbols DI are aligned in the same color pattern (same color chance) is likely to be a big hit in the subsequent variable display (in the variable display of the first special symbol lottery stored in the RAM 403). This is a suggestion. In the present embodiment, as the same color chance eye effect, the red chance eye effect in which the red chance eye having a high jackpot reliability (expected expectation level) is stopped and the green chance eye having a lower jackpot reliability than the red chance eye is stopped and displayed. A green chance eye effect is provided, and a blue chance eye effect in which a blue chance eye having a lower hit reliability than the green chance eye is stopped and displayed. If it is determined in the process of step S719 that the same color chance eye effect is performed as the pre-read suggestion effect, any of the red chance eye effect, the green chance eye effect, and the blue chance eye effect is executed as the same color chance effect. Whether or not the same color chance eye effect is being executed in the previous variation is determined based on prior determination information for target suspension, lottery, or the like so that the big hit reliability does not decrease. In other embodiments, it may be executed so that the big hit reliability is lowered. Further, the hold change effect is an effect of changing the hold image of the target hold based on the preliminary determination information of the target hold stored in the RAM 403, and this change may cause a big hit in the variable display of the target hold. The production suggests that it is expensive. In the present embodiment, the hold image is displayed in white as a normal display mode, and as the hold change effect, the red hold change effect in which the hold image changes to red with high reliability of the jackpot, and the hold image is red. There are prepared a green hold change effect that changes to green with a lower hit reliability and a blue hold change effect that changes the hold image to blue with a lower hit reliability than green. When it is determined in step S719 that the hold change effect is to be performed as the pre-read suggestion effect, in the hold change effect, it is determined whether the reserved image is changed to red, green, or blue. The determination is made based on prior determination information for the target hold, lottery, or the like so that the big hit reliability of the hold image does not decrease. In other embodiments, the jackpot reliability may change so as to decrease. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S720.

  In step S720, the CPU 401 instructs the image sound control unit 500 to execute notification effects including the effects determined to be executed in steps S702, S704 to S706, and S715 to S719. Note that an instruction to the image sound control unit 500 is performed by setting a command in the RAM 403. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S116 in FIG.

[Effect execution processing by image sound control unit in this embodiment]
Next, an effect execution process executed by the image sound control unit 500 in response to a notification effect execution instruction (see step S720 in FIG. 24) from the effect control unit 400 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 29 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an effect execution process performed by the image sound control unit 500. In the control process shown in FIG. 29, the CPU 501 of the image sound control unit 500 executes a program stored in the ROM 502, and effects content data (image data, video data, sound data, etc.) stored in the ROM 502 is stored. It is executed by playing.

  First, in step S801, the CPU 501 of the image sound control unit 500 determines whether or not a command for instructing execution of the notification effect is received from the effect control unit 400 (see step S720 in FIG. 24). If the determination in step S801 is YES, the process proceeds to step S802. If this determination is NO, the process ends.

  In step S802, the CPU 501 creates an effect schedule to be executed after the start of the notification effect based on the execution order and execution timing of each effect set in the command received in step S801. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S803.

  In step S803, the CPU 501 starts a notification effect. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S804.

  In step S804, the CPU 501 executes drawing processing based on the schedule created in step S802. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S805. Here, the details of the drawing processing will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 30 is a detailed flowchart showing an example of the drawing process according to this embodiment in step S804 of FIG.

[Drawing processing in this embodiment]
In step S8041 in FIG. 30, the CPU 501 determines whether or not the start timing of the roaring effect scheduled in step 802 in FIG. 29 has arrived. If the determination in step S8041 is YES, the process moves to step S8042, and if this determination is NO, the process moves to step S8043.

  In step S8042, the CPU 501 executes a roaring effect. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S8043.

  In step S8043, the CPU 501 determines whether the start timing of the development effect scheduled in step S802 of FIG. 29 has arrived. If the determination in step S8043 is YES, the process moves to step S8044. If the determination is NO, the process moves to step S8045.

  In step S8044, the CPU 501 executes the development effect. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S8045.

  In step S8045, the CPU 501 determines whether or not the start timing of the prefetch suggestion effect scheduled in step S802 of FIG. 29 has arrived. If the determination in step S8045 is YES, the process proceeds to step S8046. If the determination is NO, the drawing process ends.

  In step S8046, the CPU 501 executes a prefetch suggesting effect. Thereafter, the drawing process is terminated.

  Although illustration is omitted, the schedule created in step S802 of FIG. 29 includes effects other than the turn effect, the development effect, and the prefetch suggestion effect (for example, SP reach effect, SPSP reach effect, cut-in notice effect, etc.) Is included, the CPU 501 executes each effect when the execution timing of each effect scheduled in step S802 arrives.

  Returning to FIG. 29, in step S805, the CPU 501 determines whether or not a command instructing the end of the notification effect is received from the effect control unit 400 (see step S117 in FIG. 21). If the determination in step S805 is YES, the process proceeds to step S806. If this determination is NO, the process of step S804 is performed again after a predetermined interval time has elapsed.

  In step S806, the CPU 501 ends the notification effect and ends the process.

[Characteristic operation according to this embodiment]
Next, in the present embodiment described using the above flowchart, an example of effects executed on the main screen (image display unit 6) will be specifically described with reference to FIGS. As described above, in the gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment, a case in which the production effect is developed after executing the production effect during the notification effect, and a case in which the production effect is executed during the notification effect but the development effect is not developed. The prefetch suggestion effect executed during the notification effect may indicate the jackpot reliability of the reserved special symbol lottery. These examples will be described with reference to FIGS.

  FIG. 31 is a specific diagram for explaining an outline of display of decorative symbols and reserved images. First, with reference to FIG. 31, a state in which the special symbol lottery is performed and the decorative symbol DI is variably displayed in order to notify the result will be described. The decorative symbol DI is a symbol for informing the determination result of the special symbol lottery. In this embodiment, the result of the special symbol lottery is instructed using the column of the three decorative symbols DI1 to DI3. To do. In this way, the effect of notifying the result of the special symbol lottery when the decorative symbol DI is displayed in a variable manner and then stopped is referred to as a notification effect (variable effect). The notification effect may include display of various effect images, output of various effect sounds, and the like. For convenience of explanation, in the example shown in FIG. 31 and subsequent figures, only the reserved image RI indicating that the first special symbol lottery is reserved is described, and the lottery of the second special symbol is reserved. The reserved image is not shown. Further, in the following, a case where the first special symbol lottery is performed and the first special symbol is reserved as the reserved image RI will be described as an example, but the same applies when the second special symbol lottery is performed. It is.

  First, as shown in FIG. 31 (1), the decorative pattern DI (DI1 to DI3), the reserved image RI (RI1 to RI4), and the stage ST (ST1 to ST4) are displayed on the image display unit 6. The decorative symbol DI is composed of three (three columns) decorative symbols DI1 to DI3 and is displayed on the image display unit 6. More specifically, the left decorative design DI1 is displayed on the left side, the right decorative design DI2 is displayed on the right side, and the middle decorative design DI3 is displayed on the center. These left and right middle decorative symbols DI1 to DI3 are variably displayed according to the variation display of the special symbol (in synchronization with the variation display).

  Next, as shown in FIG. 31 (2), as the left decorative symbol DI1, for example, a symbol on which a numeral “2” is drawn is temporarily stopped. Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 31 (3), as the right decorative design DI2, for example, the design on which the numeral “4” is drawn stops. Then, as shown in FIG. 31 (4), for example, after the symbol on which the numeral “5” is drawn is temporarily stopped as the middle decorative symbol DI3, the three decorative symbols DI1 to DI3 are completely stopped (definite stop display). ) At this timing, the variation display of the current special symbol ends (the current notification effect ends), and the player is notified of the result of the first special symbol lottery. Specifically, it is informed that the result of the first special symbol lottery is a big hit by aligning the decorative symbols DI with a specific symbol pattern (typically a doublet “777”, etc.) as a hit, It is informed that the result of the first special symbol lottery is a loss due to the lack of specific symbols (losing eyes: typically “254”). Then, as shown in FIG. 31 (5), thereafter, the variation display of the decorative symbol DI is similarly started in accordance with the variation display of the next special symbol. In FIG. 31 and subsequent figures, the state in which the decorative design DI is changing from top to bottom is represented by arrows.

  Here, the hold image RI is an image for indicating the number of the first special symbol lottery held by the player. The image display unit 6 displays a plurality of stages ST1 to ST4 that are positions where the reserved images RI are displayed. In the example shown in FIG. 31, the number of times that the first special symbol lottery is held at a position above the plurality of stages ST1 to ST4 arranged in the left and right direction in the lower region of the image display unit 6 respectively. Corresponding reserved images RI (RI1 to RI4) are displayed. In addition, as described above, the display mode of the reserved image RI is displayed as white, blue, green, and red images. In FIG. 31 and subsequent figures, for the sake of illustration, “white” is added to represent white. , “Blue” is attached to represent blue, “green” is attached to represent green, and “red” is attached to represent red.

  As an example, as shown in FIG. 31 (1), a first special symbol lottery is scheduled to be performed next on the stage ST1 arranged at one end (right end) of a plurality of stages ST arranged in a row. The hold image RI1 corresponding to the hold (that is, the oldest stored) (the first hold) is displayed. In addition, the stage ST2 arranged next to the stage ST1 (next to the left) has a hold corresponding to a hold (second hold) in which the first special symbol lottery is scheduled to be performed next to the first hold. An image RI2 is displayed. Further, the stage ST3 arranged next to the stage ST2 (next to the left) has a hold corresponding to the hold (third hold) on which the first special symbol lottery is scheduled to be performed next to the second hold. An image RI3 is displayed. In addition, the stage ST4 disposed next to the stage ST3 (next to the left) has a hold corresponding to the hold (fourth hold) scheduled to be followed by the first special symbol lottery after the third hold. An image RI4 is displayed. When the maximum number of times that the first special symbol lottery can be held is four, the stage ST4 on which the hold image RI4 is displayed is arranged at the other end (left end) of the plurality of stages arranged in a row. become.

  The reserved images RI respectively displayed on the plurality of stages ST are sequentially changed in display position (that is, the stage ST) every time the special symbol lottery is completed. Specifically, when the current special symbol variation display ends (when the decoration symbol DI variation display is completely stopped), the reserved image RI1 displayed on the stage ST1 disappears from the stage ST1 (that is, the first variation). 1 hold is digested), and the hold images RI2 to RI4 displayed on the stages ST2 to ST4 move from the stages ST2 to ST4 to the stages ST1 to ST3, respectively. In this way, the hold image RI1 sequentially moves on the stage ST each time the hold of the first special symbol lottery is digested. In the present embodiment, the hold image RI is displayed at a position above the stage ST. However, the hold image RI is displayed at a predetermined position according to the number of times the hold is held without displaying the stage ST. It is good also as what is displayed on.

  By the way, as described above, in the present embodiment, the lottery result for the suspension of the first special symbol lottery is the effect control from the main control unit 100 before the special symbol variation display in the first special symbol lottery is started. The unit 400 is notified. That is, for example, before the second reserved image RI2 disappears from the stage ST1 and the change of the special symbol in the first special symbol lottery is started (that is, the second reserved is digested), for example, the second reserved image is At the time of occurrence, the lottery result of the first special symbol lottery for the second hold is determined in advance. In the present embodiment, based on this prior determination or the like, a pre-reading notice suggestion effect, which will be described later in detail with reference to FIG. 33, is executed. The player can be expected in advance that there may be a hold. In the present embodiment, the prior determination is performed based on the suspension of the first special symbol lottery, but the preliminary determination may be performed based on the suspension of the second special symbol lottery.

  Next, FIG. 32 is a diagram for describing an example of an effect executed in the image display unit 6 in the present embodiment, and after performing a roaring effect asking whether or not to develop into an expanded effect, the development is performed. An effect that develops into an effect (an effect that is executed when it is determined to execute a roaring effect in the identification numbers 1 to 6 of the above-described variation patterns; see FIGS. 23 and 24), and an effect that develops into an effect. It is a figure which shows the specific example of the effect which does not perform (the effect content corresponding to above-described effect type P2; refer FIG. 25-FIG. 28). In FIG. 32, the number of the first special symbol lottery held is 1, and there is no big hit in the reserved first special symbol lottery. An example of an effect when a roaring effect is performed will be described.

  First, when the variation display of the special symbol is started, the variation display of the decorative symbol DI is started in the image display unit 6 as shown in FIG. At this time, the image display unit 6 displays the stage ST1 to ST4 and the reserved image RI1 at a position above the stage ST1 to indicate that the number of the first special symbol lottery is one. ing.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 32 (2), as the left decorative design DI1, for example, a design in which the number “2” is drawn is temporarily stopped and displayed, for example, the number “4” is drawn as the right decorative design DI2. After the symbol temporary stop display, the middle decoration symbol DI3, for example, is displayed so as to indicate whether or not the symbol drawn “NEXT” is temporarily stopped, thereby determining whether or not to develop into a pseudo-continuous effect. A roaring effect is performed. In the present embodiment, as an effect of encouraging whether or not to develop into a pseudo-continuous effect, there is an effect of encouraging whether or not the symbol (NEXT symbol) drawn as “NEXT” is temporarily stopped as the medium decorative symbol DI3. Although it is assumed to be executed, the present invention is not limited to this, and the roaring effect may be any effect that indicates whether or not an effect that suggests the development into a pseudo-continuous effect is performed.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 32 (3-1), when an effect in which the NEXT symbol is not temporarily stopped and displayed is executed as the intermediate decoration symbol DI 3 (that is, the effect type P 2 described above is selected as the effect type). In the case; see FIG. 24 to FIG. 27), for example, after the symbol on which the numeral “5” is drawn is temporarily stopped as the medium decorative symbol DI3, the three decorative symbols DI1 to DI3 are fixedly stopped and displayed. The player is informed that the special symbol lottery result is lost.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 32 (3-2), when the identification number of the variation pattern related to the currently executed notification effect is 1 to 6 and it is determined to execute the roaring effect, the medium decoration symbol The NEXT symbol is temporarily stopped as DI3. This suggests to the player that it will subsequently develop into a pseudo-continuous production.

  Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 32 (4-2), the re-variable display of the decorative symbols DI1 to DI3 is started (a pseudo-continuous effect is executed). Although not shown, after the reach effect is executed according to the variation pattern (variation pattern identification number), the result of the special symbol lottery, etc., the decorative symbols DI1 to DI3 are fixedly stopped and displayed. The person is informed of the special symbol lottery result.

  Next, FIG. 33 is a diagram for describing an example of an effect executed in the image display unit 6 in the present embodiment. After performing a prefetch suggesting effect, a reach effect is not performed (reach is established). It is a figure which shows the specific example of the effect (it mentions the effect content corresponding to above-mentioned effect type P3; refer FIG. 25-FIG. 28) which alert | reports that a special symbol lottery result is a losing (without not doing) (immediately notifies losing). is there. In FIG. 33, the number of holds for the first special symbol lottery is 2, the first special symbol lottery result corresponding to the reserved image RI2 is a big hit (the prefetch suggestion target is the reserved image RI2), and is held as an development suggesting effect. An example of an effect when a change effect is executed will be described.

  First, when the variation display of the special symbol lottery is started, the variation display of the decorative symbol DI is started on the image display unit 6 as shown in FIG. At this time, the image display unit 6 has a white display mode at the positions above the stages ST1 and ST2 to indicate that the number of stages ST1 to ST4 and the number of the first special symbol lottery hold are two. The reserved image RI1 and the reserved image RI2 are displayed.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 33 (2), as the left decorative design DI1, for example, a design in which the number “2” is drawn is displayed temporarily, and as the right decorative design DI2, for example, the number “4” is drawn. After the symbol temporary stop display, for example, a symbol (change symbol) depicted as “change” is temporarily stopped and displayed as the medium decoration symbol DI3. Thereafter, an effect of changing the display mode of the reserved image RI2 from white to green is performed along with an effect of lightning emission from the temporarily stopped change symbol toward the reserved image RI2 that is a prefetch suggestion target. This suggests that there is a high possibility that the player has won a big hit as a result of the first special symbol lottery corresponding to the reserved image RI2.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 33 (3), after the medium decorative symbol DI3 is changed from a changed symbol to a symbol on which, for example, the numeral “5” is drawn and temporarily stopped, three decorative symbols DI1 to DI3 are displayed. Is displayed in a fixed stop state, the player is notified that the result of the special symbol lottery is lost.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, after executing the roaring effect that indicates whether or not the result of the special symbol lottery is highly likely to be a big hit, it is developed to the advanced effect. There are a variation pattern that can execute the effect to be performed, and a variation pattern that can execute the effect of notifying that the result of the special symbol lottery is lost without executing the development effect after executing the turning effect. Even if it does not develop into a development effect, a sense of expectation for the notification effect can be enhanced if the development effect is performed and the development effect may be developed. In addition, the smaller the number of special symbol lotteries held, the easier it is to select a variation pattern that can execute the roaring effect, and the higher the probability of executing the roaring effect.

  Further, in the present embodiment, after executing the roaring effect, a variation pattern capable of executing an effect (the effect of the effect type P2) for notifying that the result of the special symbol lottery is lost without developing into an advanced effect is selected. In such a case, instead of executing the effect of the effect type P2, it is possible to execute an effect (effect of the effect type P3) that suggests a preliminary determination result for the special symbol lottery suspension. Thereby, the player's interest can be effectively attracted to the notification effect that is performed when the notification effect that the result of the special symbol lottery is lost or the hold that the preliminary determination result is suggested is digested.

  Further, in the present embodiment, there are a variation pattern corresponding to the effect pattern type “special immediate lose” and a variation pattern corresponding to the effect pattern type “normal immediate lose” as the variation patterns indicating the reachless loss. When the variation pattern corresponding to “Special Immediate Loss” is selected as the variation pattern from the variation pattern corresponding to “Normal Immediate Loss”, the special symbol lottery will be performed without developing the development effect after executing the roaring effect. It is set so as to increase the probability of performing an effect that informs that the result is a loss or an effect that suggests a pre-determined result for a special symbol lottery suspension. In addition, when the variation pattern corresponding to “Special Immediate Loss” is selected, the variation time of the special symbol is set to be the same time regardless of the number of special symbol lottery holds, The variation time of the special symbol when the variation pattern corresponding to “losing” is selected is set such that a different time can be determined depending on the number of special symbol lotteries held.

  Also, in the present embodiment, when there is a special symbol lottery suspension where the pre-judgment result is a big hit, the variation pattern corresponding to “Normal Immediate Loss” has a variation time of 12.02 seconds Or, when a variation pattern corresponding to “Special Immediate Loss” is selected, a special symbol lottery is performed rather than an effect that informs that the result of the special symbol lottery is lost without performing the development effect after executing the roaring effect. It is set so that the probability of executing an effect that suggests a result of prior determination for the on-hold is increased. Further, as the number of special symbol lotteries held increases, the variation pattern corresponding to “Normal Immediate Loss” has a variation time of 12.02 seconds or the variation pattern corresponding to “Special Immediate Loss”. When selected, it is set so that the probability of executing an effect suggesting a preliminary determination result for the special symbol lottery suspension is increased. By these, since the player can be effectively given an expectation that he / she has been a big hit in the reserved special symbol lottery, the player's interest can be attracted.

[Modification]
In the above-described embodiment, when the variation pattern corresponding to “normally lost” is selected as the variation pattern, the variation effect is 12.02 seconds. An effect that informs that the result of the special symbol lottery is lost without developing into an effect (the effect of the effect type P2), or an effect that suggests a preliminary determination result for the suspension of the special symbol lottery (the effect of the effect type P3) It was assumed that it was feasible. However, when the variation pattern corresponding to “normally lost” is selected as the variation pattern, the effect type P2 or P3 may not be executed.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, any one of an effect indicating whether or not to develop into a reach effect and an effect indicating whether or not to develop into a quasi-continuous effect are executed as the sound effect. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, an effect that indicates whether or not to develop into a zone entry effect suggesting that there is a high possibility that a special symbol lottery is a big hit will be executed as a sound effect. Alternatively, it may be possible to execute an effect asking whether or not it develops to an effect that suggests a pre-determined result for the suspension of special symbol lottery (pre-read suggestion effect in the above-described embodiment). By doing so, it is possible to increase the variety of roaring effects and prevent the player from getting bored with the game.

  In the embodiment described above, either the chance eye effect or the hold change effect is executed as the prefetching suggestion effect. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, as a prefetching suggestion effect, a mode entry effect that suggests that there is a high possibility that a special symbol lottery has been won may be executed. By doing in this way, the diversity of prefetch suggestion production can be raised and it can prevent that a player gets tired of a game.

  Moreover, although the characteristics of the embodiment and the characteristics of the modified examples have been described above, it goes without saying that these characteristics may be appropriately combined.

  Further, the shape, number, installation position, and the like of each component provided in the pachinko gaming machine 1 described above are merely examples, and the scope of the present invention is not limited to other shapes, numbers, and installation positions. It goes without saying that the present invention can be realized without departing from the above. Further, it goes without saying that the numerical values and the like used in the above-described processing are merely examples, and the present invention can be realized even with other numerical values.

  As mentioned above, although this invention was demonstrated in detail using embodiment, the above-mentioned description is only the illustration of this invention in all the points, and does not intend to limit the range. It goes without saying that various improvements and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. In addition, it is to be understood that the terms used in the present specification are used in the meaning normally used in the art unless otherwise specified. Thus, unless defined otherwise, all technical and technical terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. In case of conflict, the present specification, including definitions, will control.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Game machine 2 ... Game board 4 ... Display 5 ... Frame member 6 ... Image display part 7 ... Movable accessory 8 ... Board lamp 20 ... Game area 21 ... 1st start opening 22 ... 2nd start opening 23 ... Grand prize Mouth 24 ... Normal winning port 25 ... Gate 26 ... Discharge port 27 ... Electric tulip 31 ... Handle 32 ... Lever 33 ... Stop button 34 ... Eject button 35 ... Speaker 36 ... Frame lamp 37 ... Production button 38 ... Production key 39 ... Dish 43 ... Lock part 100 ... Main control part 101, 201, 301, 401, 501, 601 ... CPU
102, 202, 302, 402, 502, 602 ... ROM
103, 203, 303, 403, 503, 603 ... RAM
111a ... 1st start port switch 111b ... 2nd start port switch 112 ... Electric tulip opening / closing part 113 ... Gate switch 114 ... Grand prize opening switch 115 ... Grand prize opening / closing part 116 ... Normal prize opening switch 200 ... Launch control part 211 ... Launching device 300 ... payout control unit 311 ... payout drive unit 400 ... production control unit 404 ... RTC
500 ... Image sound control unit 600 ... Lamp control unit DI ... Decoration pattern RI ... Reserved image ST ... Stage

Claims (1)

Special game determination means for determining whether or not to execute a special game based on the game information acquired by establishing the start condition;
Prior determination means for determining whether or not to execute the special game before being determined by the special game determination means based on the game information;
Based on the determination result by the special game determination unit, an effect pattern determination unit that determines an effect pattern of a notification effect that notifies the determination result;
Based on the effect pattern determined by the effect pattern determination means, the effect execution means for executing the notification effect,
The effect pattern determining means can determine at least a first effect pattern indicating that the possibility that the special game is performed is high and a second effect pattern indicating that the special game is not performed,
The second performance pattern includes at least a normal performance pattern and a special performance pattern,
The production execution means
When the first effect pattern is determined by the effect pattern determining means, the notification effect is followed by an encouraging effect that develops into a specific effect that suggests that the special game is likely to be performed. The first production that develops to a specific production can be executed,
When the second effect pattern is determined by the effect pattern determining means, in the notification effect, the second effect that does not develop into the specific effect after the roaring effect, and the determination result by the prior determination means are suggested. executable der one of the third effect which is,
When the special effect pattern is determined, the second effect or the third effect is executed with higher probability in the notification effect than when the normal effect pattern is determined by the effect pattern determining means. A gaming machine.

Images