JP6038206B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine that determines whether or not a special game advantageous to a player is performed when a predetermined start condition is satisfied, and performs a special game based on the determination result.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, for example, when a game ball wins a start opening provided in a game board, there is a gaming machine that performs a jackpot determination as to whether or not to win a game and displays a predetermined symbol in a variable manner (for example, see Patent Document 1 below). reference). When such a gaming machine determines that the jackpot is determined by the jackpot determination, the jackpot symbol indicating the jackpot is stopped and displayed, and the jackpot game is played. In the jackpot game, the big winning opening provided in the game board is opened, and the player can acquire a large number of gaming balls by winning the game balls in the opened big winning opening.

  Such gaming machines perform various effects in order to entertain the player. Such effects include special effects that can increase the player's expectation for jackpot, such as reach effects, for example. In general, such a special effect is provided with a plurality of effect modes such as a normal reach mode and a super reach mode.

JP 2014-166535 A

  However, in the prior art, when a special effect is performed in a predetermined effect mode, the player can be entertained, but when performed in other effect modes, the player may not be entertained. there were. For example, in the conventional technology, when a special performance is performed in a predetermined production mode indicating that the possibility of a special game being performed is high, the player's expectation can be enhanced, thereby making the player entertained However, when it is performed in a production mode other than that, the player's expectation cannot be increased as in the case of the predetermined production mode, and the player cannot be entertained.

  An object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can entertain a player even when a special effect is performed in an effect mode other than a predetermined effect mode, in order to eliminate the above-described problems caused by the prior art. And

  In order to solve the above-described problems and achieve the object, the gaming machine according to the present invention is configured to determine whether or not a special game advantageous to the player is performed when a predetermined start condition is satisfied, An effect execution means capable of performing a predetermined effect based on the determination result of the determination means, and the effect execution means provides a special effect indicating that the possibility of the special game is high. When performing in the first effect mode and when performing in the second effect mode different from the first effect mode, there is a special effect execution means and a first notice suggesting the possibility of the special game being performed When performing an effect, when performing a second notice effect that suggests that the special game is more likely to be performed than the first notice effect, and having a certain notice effect execution means, The notice effect execution means is the special performance. It is possible to perform the common second notice effect both when the first effect mode is performed and when the special effect is performed in the second effect mode. The second notice effect is performed with higher probability when the special effect is performed in the second effect mode than when the special effect is performed in the first effect mode. .

  Further, in order to solve the above-described problems and achieve the object, the gaming machine according to the present invention determines whether or not a special game advantageous to the player is performed when a predetermined starting condition is satisfied. And an effect execution means capable of performing a predetermined effect based on the determination result of the determination means, and the effect execution means suggests that there is a high possibility that the special game will be performed. When the effect is performed in the first effect mode and when the effect is performed in the second effect mode different from the first effect mode, there is a special effect execution means, and the first suggesting the possibility that the special game is performed. Having a notice effect execution means, a second notice effect that suggests that the special game is more likely to be performed than the first notice effect. And the notice effect execution means When the special effect is performed in the second effect mode, the second notice effect is performed with higher probability than when the different effect is performed in the first effect mode, and the special effect is performed. While an effect is being performed in the second effect mode, and before the second notice effect is performed, a suggestion effect suggesting that the second notice effect is performed can be performed. The special effect is performed in the first effect mode, and the suggestion effect is not performed before the second notice effect.

  According to the present invention, there is an effect that the player can be entertained even when the special effect is performed in an effect mode other than the predetermined effect mode.

It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the game machine concerning embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the information display part of this Embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the functional structure of the game machine of this Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing (the 1) which shows the specific example of an effect by the game machine of this Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing (the 2) which shows the specific example of an effect by the game machine of this Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing (the 3) which shows the specific example of an effect by the game machine of this Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing (the 4) which shows the specific example of an effect by the game machine of this Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing (the 1) which shows an example of the hardware constitutions of the game machine of this Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing (the 1) which shows an example of the table memorize | stored in the main-control part of this Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing (the 2) which shows an example of the table memorize | stored in the main-control part of this Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing (the 2) which shows an example of the hardware constitutions of the game machine of this Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing (the 1) which shows an example of the table memorize | stored in the production control part of this Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing (the 2) which shows an example of the table memorize | stored in the production | presentation supervision part of this Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the table memorize | stored in the image and audio | voice control part of this Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a main process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a timer interruption process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a start port switch process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a prior determination process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a special symbol process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a jackpot determination process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a process during a stop. It is a flowchart which shows the processing content of a big prize opening process. It is a flowchart which shows the processing content of an opening process. It is a flowchart which shows the processing content of the process during open | release. It is a flowchart which shows the processing content of an interval process. It is a flowchart which shows the processing content of an ending process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a game state setting process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of an effect timer interruption process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a command reception process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of an effect start process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of an image and audio | voice timer interruption process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a freeze production start process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a variation production start process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the process during freeze production. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a button notice effect process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a lever notice effect process.

  Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of a gaming machine according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the following embodiment, an example in which the gaming machine according to the present invention is applied to a pachinko gaming machine (so-called “digipachi”) belonging to the former type 1 will be described, but the contents of the present invention are limited. It is not a thing. For example, the gaming machine according to the present invention may be applied to a revolving gaming machine called a “slot machine”. In addition, specific numerical values and the like shown in the following embodiments are examples, and do not limit the contents of the present invention.

<Basic configuration of gaming machine>
First, the basic configuration of the gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 1, the gaming machine 100 according to the present embodiment includes a gaming board 101. Below the game board 101, a launching unit (see reference numeral 728 in FIG. 7) for launching a game ball is provided.

  The game ball launched by the launching unit rises along the rail 102 and reaches the upper position of the game board 101, and then falls in the game area 103. Although not shown in FIG. 1, the game area 103 is provided with a number of nails, windmills, and the like. Accordingly, it is difficult for the player to predict the falling start of the game ball.

  An image display unit 104 is provided in the approximate center of the game board 101. The image display unit 104 displays effect designs, background images, images related to various effects, and the like. For example, a liquid crystal display (LCD: Liquid Crystal Display) can be used for the image display unit 104.

  In the game board 101, a first start port 105 is provided below the image display unit 104, and a second start port 106 is provided to the right of the first start port 105. The first start port 105 and the second start port 106 are winning ports through which game balls can be won. Further, an ordinary electric accessory 107 is provided in the vicinity of the second start port 106.

  The ordinary electric accessory 107 is an openable / closable accessory (for example, an electric tulip). When the ordinary electric combination 107 is opened, the game ball is likely to win the second starting port 106, and when the ordinary electric combination 107 is closed, the gaming ball is difficult to win the second starting port 106. The normal electric accessory 107 is normally closed and is opened based on the normal symbol determination result. This normal symbol determination is performed when the game ball passes through the gates 108 provided on the left and right sides of the image display unit 104 on the game board 101.

  In the game board 101, a big prize opening 109 is provided to the right of the first start opening 105. The big prize opening 109 can be freely opened and closed, and the game ball can be awarded to the big prize opening 109 only when the big prize opening 109 is opened. In other words, when the big prize opening 109 is closed, the game ball cannot win the big prize opening 109. The big prize opening 109 is normally closed and is opened based on the jackpot determination result. This jackpot determination is performed by winning a game ball at the first start port 105 or the second start port 106. Note that the gaming machine 100 pays out a predetermined number (for example, 15 balls) of prize balls every time a game ball wins a prize winning opening 109.

  In the game board 101, a normal winning opening 110 is provided on the left side of the first start opening 105. The gaming machine 100 pays out a predetermined number (for example, 10 balls) of prize balls every time a game ball wins the normal prize opening 110. At the bottom of the game area 103, a collection port 111 is provided for collecting game balls that have not won any winning ports.

  In FIG. 1, an information display unit 112 is provided at the lower left position of the game board 101. The information display unit 112 displays special symbols, normal symbols, and the like. Here, the special symbol is a symbol for indicating the jackpot determination result, and the normal symbol is a symbol for indicating the normal symbol determination result. Details of the information display unit 112 will be described later with reference to FIG.

  In FIG. 1, a frame member 113 is provided so as to surround the outer periphery of the game area 103. The frame member 113 has a shape that surrounds the periphery of the game area 103 on the four sides on the top, bottom, left, and right of the game board 101 and protrudes toward the player. The frame member 113 incorporates a speaker 114, an effect light unit 115, and the like.

  In FIG. 1, an operation handle 116 is provided at the lower right position of the frame member 113. The operation handle 116 is provided so as to protrude to the player side, and is used for a game ball launching operation. Specifically, the operation handle 116 includes a firing instruction member 117. The firing instruction member 117 is provided on the outer periphery of the operation handle 116 so as to be rotated clockwise as viewed from the player.

  The launcher launches a game ball with an intensity corresponding to the rotation angle of the firing instruction member 117 relative to the operation handle 116. In addition, the operation handle 116 is provided with a sensor that detects that the player directly operates the firing instruction member 117. The launching unit launches a game ball when it is detected by this sensor that the firing instruction member 117 is directly operated by the player.

  In FIG. 1, an effect button 118 and a cross key 119 are provided on the lower portion of the frame member 113. Further, in FIG. 1, an operation lever 120 is provided on the upper portion of the frame member 113. The effect button 118, the cross key 119, and the operation lever 120 function as operation means that can be operated by the player.

  In FIG. 1, a hitting ball supply tray (not shown) is provided on the lower portion of the frame member 113, and a game ball is accommodated in the hitting ball supply tray. Further, the hitting ball supply tray has a shape inclined toward the launching unit, and sequentially sends out the stored game balls to the launching unit.

  In addition, a movable accessory 130 is provided at a predetermined position of the game board 101. The movable accessory 130 is an effect accessory that is driven during a predetermined effect. For example, in the gaming machine 100, the movable accessory 130 is provided above the image display unit 104, and is driven during a predetermined performance to advance to the front of the image display unit 104. In addition, the movable accessory 130 is retracted from the front surface of the image display unit 104 as shown in FIG.

  Note that the arrangement positions of the first start port 105, the second start port 106, the big winning port 109, and the normal winning port 110 are not limited to the example shown in FIG. These arrangement positions can be arbitrarily determined by the manufacturer of the gaming machine 100 in consideration of the game characteristics of the gaming machine 100 and the like. In the example of FIG. 1, the number of the image display units 104 is one, but a plurality of image display units 104 (for example, a main display and a sub display smaller than the main display) may be provided.

<Details of information display section>
Next, the information display unit 112 will be described. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the information display unit of the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2, the information display unit 112 includes a special symbol display unit 201, a normal symbol display unit 202, a hold number display unit 203, and a round number display unit 204. A lamp indicator or the like is used for these display units.

  The special symbol display unit 201 includes a first special symbol display unit 201a and a second special symbol display unit 201b. The 1st special symbol display part 201a displays the 1st special symbol which shows the jackpot determination result of the jackpot determination performed when a game ball wins in the 1st starting port 105. FIG. For example, the first special symbol display unit 201a includes eight lamps (for example, LED lamps) as shown in FIG. The first special symbol display unit 201a, when a big hit determination is performed by winning a game ball in the first starting port 105, the first special symbol is variably displayed only for a predetermined period and then stopped so as to show the big hit determination result indicate.

  For example, the variable display of the first special symbol by the first special symbol display unit 201a is performed by sequentially lighting each lamp of the first special symbol display unit 201a so as to flow from left to right in FIG. Further, the stop display of the first special symbol by the first special symbol display unit 201a is performed by lighting only a predetermined lamp among the lamps of the first special symbol display unit 201a.

  For example, in the case of the gaming machine 100, in the jackpot determination performed by winning a game ball at the first starting port 105, the 16-round probability variation jackpot (hereinafter referred to as “16R probability variation jackpot”), the 16-round regular jackpot (hereinafter referred to as “16R normal bonus”). Big hit), 8 round normal big hit (hereinafter referred to as “8R normal big hit”), 2 round latent big hit (hereinafter referred to as “2R latent big hit”), first small hit, second small hit, or lost Is determined.

  For example, the first special symbol display unit 201a displays the first, third, sixth, and seventh from the left in FIG. 2 among the eight lamps when the jackpot determination result is 16R probability variation jackpot. Turn on only the lamp. Hereinafter, this lighting mode is referred to as “big hit symbol α”. Further, for example, when the jackpot determination result is 16R normal jackpot, the first special symbol display unit 201a is the second, third, sixth, and eighth from the left in FIG. 2 among the eight lamps. Turn on only the eye lamp. Hereinafter, this lighting mode is referred to as “big hit symbol β”.

  Further, for example, when the jackpot determination result is 8R normal jackpot, the first special symbol display unit 201a has the first, fourth, fifth, and seventh from the left in FIG. 2 among the eight lamps. Turn on only the eye lamp. Hereinafter, this lighting mode is referred to as “big hit symbol γ”. Further, for example, when the big hit determination result is 2R latent big hit, the first special symbol display unit 201a is the second, fifth, sixth, and 8th from the left in FIG. Turn on only the first lamp. Hereinafter, this lighting mode is referred to as “big hit symbol δ”.

  Further, for example, when the big hit determination result is the first small hit, the first special symbol display unit 201a has the second, fourth, sixth, and 8th from the left in FIG. Turn on only the first lamp. Hereinafter, this lighting mode is referred to as “small hit symbol ε”. For example, the jackpot symbol ε is visually similar to the jackpot symbol δ of 2R latent probability jackpot. As a result, the gaming machine 100 can give the player a sense of expectation that “may be a jackpot symbol δ (that is, a 2R latent probability jackpot)” even when stopped and displayed with the jackpot symbol ε.

  Further, for example, when the big hit determination result is the second small hit, the first special symbol display unit 201a has the first, fifth, sixth, and eighth from the left in FIG. Turn on only the first lamp. Hereinafter, this lighting mode is referred to as “small hit symbol ζ”. For example, the small hit symbol ζ is similar in appearance to the big hit symbol δ of 2R latent probability big hit, similarly to the small hit symbol ε. As a result, the gaming machine 100 can give the player a sense of expectation such as “may be a jackpot symbol δ (that is, a 2R latent probability jackpot)” even when stopped with the small hit symbol ζ.

  For example, when the jackpot determination result is lost, the first special symbol display unit 201a turns on only the eighth lamp from the left in FIG. 2 among the eight lamps. Hereinafter, this lighting mode is referred to as a “lost pattern”.

  The second special symbol display unit 201b displays a second special symbol indicating a jackpot determination result of the jackpot determination performed by winning the game ball at the second starting port 106. For example, in the case of the gaming machine 100, in the jackpot determination performed by winning a game ball at the second starting port 106, the 16R probability variation jackpot, the 16R normal jackpot, the 8R normal jackpot, the 2R latent probability jackpot, the first jackpot, the first jackpot, It is determined which of the two small hits is lost.

  For example, the second special symbol display unit 201b is configured in the same manner as the first special symbol display unit 201a, and when a big hit determination is made by winning a game ball at the second starting port 106, the second special symbol is determined as a predetermined symbol. After the variable display only for the period, the display is stopped so as to indicate the jackpot determination result (any one of the jackpot symbol α to the jackpot symbol δ, the small hit symbol ε, the small hit symbol ζ, or the lost symbol).

  The normal symbol display unit 202 displays a normal symbol indicating a determination result of the normal symbol determination performed when the game ball passes through the gate 108. For example, the normal symbol display unit 202 includes three lamps indicating “◯”, “Δ”, and “×” as shown in FIG. When the normal symbol determination is performed by the game ball passing through the gate 108, the normal symbol display unit 202 displays the normal symbol variably for a predetermined period and then stops and displays the normal symbol determination result.

  For example, the fluctuation display of the normal symbol by the normal symbol display unit 202 is performed by sequentially lighting each lamp of the normal symbol display unit 202 such as “O” → “Δ” → “×” → “O” →. Is called. Further, the normal symbol stop display by the normal symbol display unit 202 is performed by lighting only a predetermined lamp among the lamps of the normal symbol display unit 202.

  For example, in the normal symbol determination of the gaming machine 100, it is determined which of normal symbol length per open, normal symbol short open per, or lost. For example, the normal symbol display unit 202 turns on only the “◯” lamps of the three lamps when the normal symbol determination result is per normal symbol length release. Further, for example, the normal symbol display unit 202 turns on only the “Δ” lamp among the three lamps when the normal symbol determination result is per normal symbol short open. Then, for example, when the normal symbol determination result is lost, the normal symbol display unit 202 turns on only the “×” lamp among the three lamps.

  The hold number display unit 203 includes a first hold number display unit 203a and a second hold number display unit 203b. Although a detailed description will be given later, in the gaming machine 100, when a game ball wins the first starting port 105 or the second starting port 106, determination information used for determining the big hit is acquired. In the gaming machine 100, up to four pieces of determination information can be stored (held) for each of the first start port 105 and the second start port 106.

  The first number-of-holds display unit 203a displays the number of pieces of determination information (hereinafter referred to as “first number-of-holds”) stored when the game ball wins at the first start port 105. In addition, the second number-of-holds display unit 203b displays the number of pieces of determination information (hereinafter referred to as “second number-of-holds”) stored by winning game balls at the second starting port 106. In the following, when simply referring to “the number of reservations”, this means a combination of the first number of reservations and the second number of reservations.

  Moreover, the number-of-holds display unit 203 includes a normal symbol number-of-holds display unit 203c. Although a detailed description is omitted, in the gaming machine 100, when the game ball passes through the gate 108, normal symbol determination information used for normal symbol determination is acquired. The gaming machine 100 can store (hold) up to four pieces of normal symbol determination information. The normal symbol hold count display section 203c displays the number of normal symbol determination information stored in this manner (hereinafter referred to as “normal symbol hold count”).

  For example, the first hold number display unit 203a, the second hold number display unit 203b, and the normal symbol hold number display unit 203c each include four lamps, each of which has a first hold number and a second hold number. Turn on the same number of lamps as the number of normal symbols held.

  The round number display unit 204 displays the number of rounds of the jackpot game when the jackpot game is played. As described above, in the gaming machine 100, there are 16 round jackpots (16R probability variable jackpot and 16R normal jackpot), 8 round jackpots (8R regular jackpot), and 2 round jackpots (2R latent jackpot).

  Therefore, the round number display unit 204 includes three lamps indicating “16”, “8”, and “2” as shown in FIG. The number-of-rounds display unit 204 turns on the “16” lamp when a jackpot game is played by a jackpot of 16 rounds. In addition, the round number display unit 204 turns on the “8” lamp when a big hit game is played by a big hit of eight rounds. Then, the round number display unit 204 turns on the “2” lamp when the big hit game is played by the big hit of two rounds.

<Basic operation of the gaming machine>
Next, the basic operation of the gaming machine 100 will be described. When the launch instruction member 117 is operated by the player, the gaming machine 100 launches a game ball toward the game area 103. When the launched game ball wins the first start opening 105 or the second start opening 106, the gaming machine 100 acquires determination information used for determining the big hit.

  Thereafter, the gaming machine 100 performs jackpot determination using the acquired determination information, and the special symbol display unit 201 variably displays the special symbol. In addition, when the gaming machine 100 makes a jackpot determination, the image display unit 104 displays a plurality of effect symbols in a variable manner. Each of the plurality of effect symbols represents, for example, any number (integer) from “1” to “9”. In addition, the change display of the effect symbols is performed by, for example, scrolling and displaying numbers from “1” to “9” from the upper side to the lower side of the display screen of the image display unit 104.

  Note that the gaming machine 100 controls various effects (for example, reach described later) by controlling the rendering means such as the image display unit 104, the speaker 114, the rendering light unit 115, and the movable accessory 130 during the variation display of the rendering symbol. Production etc.). Further, the gaming machine 100 can indicate to the player the degree of jackpot expectation (hereinafter referred to as “hit expectation degree”, so-called “reliability”).

  The gaming machine 100 displays the special symbol in a variable manner for a predetermined period, and then stops and displays the jackpot determination result. That is, if the jackpot determination result is a jackpot, the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed. If the jackpot is small, the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed.

  Furthermore, similarly to the special symbol, the gaming machine 100 displays the effect symbol fluctuating for a predetermined period, and then stops and displays the jackpot determination result. For example, when the jackpot determination result is a jackpot, the gaming machine 100 stops and displays a plurality of effect symbols at a jackpot (for example, a combination of jackpots such as so-called “zolo eyes”). On the other hand, when the jackpot determination result is a loss, the gaming machine 100 stops and displays a plurality of performance symbols at a losing eye (for example, a combination of losing eyes such as “socket” or “reaching”).

  In addition, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed as a jackpot symbol, the gaming machine 100 continues to play a jackpot game. In addition, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed with the small hit design, the gaming machine 100 continues to play the small hit game. In the big win game or the small hit game, the gaming machine 100 opens the big winning opening 109 in a predetermined opening mode, and when a gaming ball wins the big winning opening 109, a predetermined number (for example, 10 balls) of game balls is paid out. .

  For example, in the gaming machine 100, in the 16R probability variable jackpot game performed by determining the 16R probability variable jackpot in the jackpot determination and in the 16R normal jackpot game determined by determining the 16R normal jackpot in the jackpot determination, the first round to the 16th round In each round until, the grand prize opening 109 is opened once with a 30-second opening time. In addition, in the 8R normal jackpot game that is performed by determining that 8R normal jackpot is determined by the jackpot determination, the gaming machine 100 opens the grand prize winning hole 109 once every 30 seconds from the first round to the eighth round. Let open.

  Furthermore, the gaming machine 100 opens the grand prize winning hole 109 once in a 1-second opening time in the first round and the second round in a 2R latent big hit game that is determined by determining a 2R latent big hit in the big hit determination. . In addition, the gaming machine 100 opens the big winning opening 109 twice in a one-second opening time in the small hit game performed by determining the first small hit and the second small hit in the big hit determination. That is, both the 2R latent winning game and the small winning game are apparently opened for 1 second of the big winning opening 109 twice. It is difficult to determine whether the game is a small hit game or not.

  It should be noted that the gaming machine 100 is in the probability variation gaming state after the 16R probability variation big hit game. Here, the probability variation gaming state is a state of a high probability gaming state and an auxiliary gaming state. The high probability gaming state is a gaming state in which the determination probability determined to be a big hit in the jackpot determination is higher than the low probability gaming state. For example, in the jackpot determination in the low probability gaming state, the jackpot is determined with a determination probability of 1/250. On the other hand, in the jackpot determination in the high probability gaming state, the jackpot is determined with a determination probability of 7/250.

  The auxiliary gaming state is a gaming state in which it is easier for the game ball to win the second starting port 106 than in the non-auxiliary gaming state. For example, in the auxiliary gaming state, the determination probability of being determined per normal symbol (per normal symbol length opening and per normal symbol short opening) in the normal symbol determination is higher than in the non-auxiliary gaming state. Also, in the auxiliary gaming state, the opening time of the ordinary electric accessory 107 when the normal symbol determination is determined to be per normal symbol is extended compared to the non-auxiliary gaming state. Furthermore, in the auxiliary gaming state, the variation time when the normal symbol is variably displayed is reduced compared to the non-auxiliary gaming state. As a result, in the auxiliary game state, it becomes easier for the game ball to win the second starting port 106 than in the non-auxiliary game state.

  Here, it is assumed that the gaming machine 100 is a so-called “loop machine” and the probability variation gaming state is continued until the next jackpot game. In addition, the gaming machine 100 may be a so-called “ST machine”. In this case, when the gaming machine 100 performs the symbol variation (variation display and stop display) of the special symbol for a predetermined number of times (for example, 74 times) in the probability variation gaming state, the probability variation gaming state is terminated and the normal gaming state (low probability gaming state). And a non-auxiliary gaming state). When the gaming machine 100 is “ST machine”, for example, the high probability game state ends with 74 symbol variations, and the auxiliary game state ends with 70 symbol variations. The end times of the state and the auxiliary game state may be different.

  Further, the gaming machine 100 is set to the short-time gaming state after the 16R normal jackpot game and after the 8R normal jackpot game. Here, the short-time gaming state is a low-probability gaming state and an auxiliary gaming state. When the gaming machine 100 performs the symbol variation of the special symbol a predetermined number of times (for example, 100 times) in the short-time gaming state, the gaming machine 100 ends the short-time gaming state and enters the normal gaming state (low probability gaming state and non-auxiliary gaming state). .

  Further, the gaming machine 100 is set in the latent game state after the 2R latent probability big game. Here, the latent game state is a high-probability game state and a non-auxiliary game state. As described above, here, it is assumed that the gaming machine 100 is a so-called “loop machine” and the latent game state is continued until the next jackpot game. In addition, as described above, the gaming machine 100 is set as the “ST machine”, and the symbol variation state (change display and stop display) of the special symbol is performed a predetermined number of times (for example, 74 times) in the latent probability gaming state. May be terminated to shift to the normal gaming state. Further, the gaming machine 100 maintains the same gaming state as before the small hit game after the small hit game. That is, the gaming machine 100 does not perform a game state transition triggered by the small hit game.

  In addition, when the game ball passes through the gate 108, the gaming machine 100 acquires the normal symbol determination information, and performs the normal symbol determination using the normal symbol determination information. When the gaming machine 100 performs the normal symbol determination, the normal symbol display unit 202 variably displays the normal symbol. The gaming machine 100 displays the normal symbols in a variable manner for a predetermined period, and then stops and displays the normal symbols so as to show the normal symbol determination result. The gaming machine 100 opens the normal electric accessory 107 when the normal symbol is stopped and displayed per normal symbol length opening or per normal symbol short opening. For example, the gaming machine 100 opens the normal electric accessory 107 for 5 seconds when it is stopped per normal symbol length release, and opens the normal electric accessory 107 for one second when it is stopped per normal symbol short release. Open.

<Functional configuration of gaming machine>
Next, a functional configuration of the gaming machine 100 will be described. FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of the gaming machine according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 3, the gaming machine 100 includes a determination unit 310 and an effect execution unit 320.

  The determination unit 310 determines whether or not to perform a special game advantageous to the player when a predetermined start condition is satisfied. For example, in the gaming machine 100, the starting condition is a winning game ball to the first starting port 105 or the second starting port 106, and the special game is a big hit game. In this case, the determination unit 310 performs a jackpot determination when a game ball wins the first start port 105 or the second start port 106.

  In addition, the determination unit 310 may make a prior determination when a game ball wins the first start port 105 or the second start port 106. The prior determination is to determine the jackpot determination result of the jackpot determination before the jackpot determination. For example, the determination unit 310 determines what value the winning determination random number of the determination information acquired at the time of winning the first starting port 105 or the second starting port 106 (is it coincides with a predetermined jackpot determination value)? By determining, jackpot determination and prior determination can be performed.

  Furthermore, the determination unit 310 may determine whether or not to play a specific jackpot game. For example, the determination unit 310 determines what value the symbol determination random number of the determination information acquired at the time of winning a prize at the first start port 105 or the second start port 106 (matches a predetermined jackpot symbol determination value). ) Can be determined whether or not to play a specific jackpot game.

  The effect execution unit 320 performs a predetermined effect based on the determination result of the determination unit 310. The gaming machine 100 is provided with rendering means such as an image display unit 104, a speaker 114, a rendering light unit 115, and a movable accessory 130. The effect execution unit 320 displays a predetermined image on the image display unit 104, outputs a predetermined sound from the speaker 114, turns on the effect light unit 115 with a predetermined lighting content, or sets the movable accessory 130 in a predetermined manner. A predetermined effect can be performed by driving according to the driving content.

  The effect execution unit 320 includes a special effect execution unit 321. The special performance execution unit 321 performs a special performance that suggests to the player that the possibility of a special game is high. In the gaming machine 100, since the special game is a jackpot game, the special effect can be an effect suggesting that the degree of expectation of the jackpot is high.

  For example, the special effect execution unit 321 can perform a reach effect as a special effect. Further, in the present embodiment, there are provided a normal reach mode, a super reach mode (hereinafter referred to as “SP reach mode”), and a super super reach mode (hereinafter referred to as “SPSP reach mode”) as an effect mode of reach production. It was. These effects differ from each other. For example, at least one of the display content of the image display unit 104, the output content of the speaker 114, the light emission content of the effect light unit 115, and the driving content of the movable accessory 130 is different. ing.

  The special effect execution unit 321 performs a reach effect with a predetermined probability each time the determination unit 310 performs a jackpot determination. When the jackpot determination result is lost, it is most easy to perform the reach effect in the normal reach mode (the reach effect that is completed in the normal reach mode) among the reach effects. When the jackpot determination result is the jackpot, Among them, the reach production in the SPSP reach mode (the reach production completed in the SPSP reach mode) is most easily performed. Therefore, when the reach modes of the reach effects are arranged in descending order of the jackpot expectation, the SPSP reach mode, the SP reach mode, and the normal reach mode are obtained.

  In addition, when performing the reach effect of the SP reach mode, the special effect execution unit 321 may first set the normal reach mode and then develop the SP reach mode. In this way, the special performance execution unit 321 can give the player a sense of expectation that “it may be in the SP reach mode” when performing in the normal reach mode. Further, when performing the reach effect in the SPSP reach mode, the special effect execution unit 321 may first set the normal reach mode, then develop the SP reach mode, and then develop the SPSP reach mode. In this way, the special effect execution unit 321 can give the player a sense of expectation that “it may be in the SPSP reach mode” when performing in the SP reach mode.

  Further, for example, the special effect execution unit 321 performs a freeze effect as a special effect. The effect form of the freeze effect is different from any of the reach effects described above. For example, the special effect execution unit 321 continues a certain display (for example, a display immediately before the freeze effect) for a predetermined period on the image display unit 104 as if it was “frozen” during the freeze effect.

  For example, the special effect execution unit 321 performs a freeze effect with a predetermined probability every time the determination unit 310 makes a prior determination. When the prior determination result is lost, the probability of performing the freeze effect is low, and when the prior determination result is a jackpot, the probability of performing the freeze effect is high. Therefore, the expectation degree of jackpot is higher when there is a freeze effect than when there is no freeze effect.

  In addition, for example, in the case of a reach effect, the special effect execution unit 321 performs stepwise development from a normal reach mode to an SP reach mode or an SP reach mode to an SPSP reach mode. In this case, a certain display is continued so that such stepwise development is not performed.

  The effect execution unit 320 includes a special effect execution unit 322. The special effect execution unit 322 is an effect different from the special effect, and performs a special effect that suggests to the player the possibility (high or low) of the special game. In the gaming machine 100, since the special game is a jackpot game, the special effect can be an effect that suggests the degree of expectation of the jackpot.

  For example, the special effect execution unit 322 performs a button notice effect as a special effect. Although details will be described later, the special effect execution unit 322 first instructs the player to press the effect button 118 during the button notice effect, and when the effect button 118 is pressed by the player (or a predetermined value) When the operation valid period elapses), the result of the button notice effect is notified. In the gaming machine 100, there are “no cut-in” and “cut-in” as the results of the button notice effect.

  When the jackpot determination result is a loss, the special effect execution unit 322 makes it easier to perform the button notice effect that the effect result is “no cut-in” than the jackpot determination result. Further, when the jackpot determination result is a jackpot, the special effect execution unit 322 makes it easier to perform the button notice effect that the effect result is “with cut-in” than the case of a loss. Therefore, it is suggested that the button notice effect with the effect result “with cut-in” has a higher jackpot expectation than the button notice effect with the effect result “without cut-in”.

  For example, the special effect execution unit 322 performs a lever notice effect as a special effect. Although details will be described later, the special effect execution unit 322 first instructs the player to operate the operation lever 120 during the lever announcement effect, and when the operation lever 120 is operated by the player (or a predetermined operation). When the operation valid period elapses), the effect result of the lever notice effect is notified. In the gaming machine 100, there are “no movable accessory driving” and “movable accessory driving” as effects of the lever notice effect.

  When the jackpot determination result is a loss, the special effect execution unit 322 performs a lever notice effect that the effect result is “no drive of movable accessory”. Further, when the jackpot determination result is a jackpot, the special effect execution unit 322 performs a lever notice effect that the effect result is “movable accessory driving”. Therefore, it is suggested that the lever notice effect with the effect result “with movable accessory driving” has a higher jackpot expectation than the lever notice effect with the effect result “without movable agent drive”. Furthermore, the lever notice effect whose effect result is “movable accessory driven” informs that the jackpot is confirmed.

  When the jackpot determination result is a jackpot, the special effect execution unit 322 performs the lever notice effect with the effect result “movable accessory driven” and the button notice effect with the effect result “with cut-in”. It is easy. Therefore, it is suggested that the lever notice effect with the effect result “movable accessory driving” is higher in the jackpot expectation than the button notice effect with the effect result “with cut-in”.

  Although details will be described later, the special effect execution unit 322 can perform the button notification effect and the lever notification effect when the special effect execution unit 321 performs the reach effect in the SPSP reach mode. Also, the special effect execution unit 322 can perform the lever notice effect when the special effect execution unit 321 performs the freeze effect.

  In the present embodiment, the special effect execution unit 322 can further perform a countdown effect. Here, the countdown effect is an effect that is performed before the lever notification effect is performed, and is an effect that suggests that the lever notification effect is performed (a suggestion effect). Although the details will be described later, this countdown effect can be performed when the lever notice effect is performed from the freeze effect, but the lever notice effect is performed from the reach effect in the SPSP reach mode. Is not supposed to be done.

<Examples of specific production using game machines>
Here, a specific example of the effect by the gaming machine 100 will be described. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram (No. 1) showing a specific example of the effect produced by the gaming machine of the present embodiment. As described above, the gaming machine 100 can perform the button notice effect and the lever notice effect from the reach effect in the SPSP reach mode.

<Button notice production from reach production of SPSP reach>
First, an example of an effect in the case of performing a button notice effect from the reach effect of the SPSP reach mode will be described. At time t <b> 10 in FIG. 4, the gaming machine 100 acquires the determination information because the game ball has won the first starting port 105. It should be noted that at the time of acquisition of this determination information, it is assumed that the gaming machine 100 is not performing a special symbol variation display or jackpot game, and has not stored other determination information.

  In this case, the gaming machine 100 performs jackpot determination based on the determination information acquired at time t10 at time t11 immediately after time t10, and as shown in FIG. 4A, the left effect symbol Ez1 is displayed on the image display unit 104. Then, the variable display of the middle effect symbol Ez2 and the right effect symbol Ez3 is started. The combination of the left effect symbol Ez1, the middle effect symbol Ez2, and the right effect symbol Ez3 is hereinafter referred to as “effect symbols Ez1 to Ez3”. In addition, it is assumed that the production symbols Ez1 to Ez3 represented by the lower white arrows in the figure indicate that they are variably displayed.

  As shown in FIG. 4 (a), the gaming machine 100 starts the reach effect in the normal reach mode at the time t12 when the predetermined period T1 has elapsed from the time t11, with the effect symbols Ez1 to Ez3 being in the reach state. For example, in the normal reach mode, “REACH!” Is displayed on the image display unit 104 as illustrated.

  The gaming machine 100 develops from the normal reach mode to the SP reach mode as shown in FIG. 4C at time t13 when a predetermined period T2 (T2> T1) has elapsed from time t11. For example, in the SP reach mode, the animation movie Mv1 is displayed on the image display unit 104 as illustrated. The animation movie Mv1 is displayed on the back side of the effect symbols Ez1 to Ez3 on the image display unit 104.

  In the SP reach mode, the gaming machine 100 may reduce the effect symbols Ez1 to Ez3 as shown in the drawing and display them at the corner of the display screen (lower right corner in the example shown). In this way, the gaming machine 100 can reduce the area of the portion of the displayed animation movie Mv1 that is shielded by the production symbols Ez1 to Ez3, and is displayed in the central portion of the image display unit 104. The animation movie Mv1 can be shown to the player, and the effect of the SP reach aspect can be enhanced.

  The gaming machine 100 develops from the SP reach mode to the SPSP reach mode as shown in FIG. 4D at a time t14 when a predetermined period T3 (T3> T2) has elapsed from the time t11. For example, in the SPSP reach mode, a live-action movie Mv2 is displayed on the image display unit 104 as illustrated. Note that the live-action movie Mv2 is also displayed on the back side of the effect symbols Ez1 to Ez3 in the image display unit 104, like the animation movie Mv1. Also in the SPSP reach mode, the gaming machine 100 may reduce the effect symbols Ez1 to Ez3 and display them at the corners of the display screen, as in the SP reach mode. In this way, the effect of the SPSP reach mode can be enhanced.

  When performing the button notice effect, the gaming machine 100 starts the button notice effect as shown in FIG. 4 (o) at the time t15 when the predetermined period T4 (T4> T3) has elapsed from the time t11. Here, the time t15 is a time during the reach production in the SPSP reach mode, for example, a time immediately before the end of the reach production in the SPSP reach mode (that is, a time immediately before the jackpot determination result is shown).

  For example, in the case of a button notice effect, an effect button image 401 simulating the effect button 118 is displayed on the image display unit 104 as shown in the figure. That is, the gaming machine 100 instructs the player to press the effect button 118 by displaying the effect button image 401. At time t15, since the reach effect of the SPSP reach mode is also performed, the live-action movie Mv2 is also displayed on the image display unit 104 as in time t14. The effect button image 401 is displayed on the image display unit 104 in front of the live-action movie Mv2. In the case of the button notice effect, for example, “Press the effect button” may be displayed on the image display unit 104, and the operation validity suggesting the operation valid period (remaining time) of the button notice effect may be displayed. You may display a period.

  When the effect button 118 is pressed by the player at time t16 during the display of the effect button image 401, the gaming machine 100 hides the effect button image 401 and displays a button notice as shown in FIG. The effect result of the effect is notified to the player, and the button notice effect ends. As described above, in the present embodiment, there are “no cut-in” and “cut-in” as the result of the button notice effect. In the example shown in the figure, a button notice effect having an effect result of “with cut-in” is performed, and thereby a cut-in image 402 is displayed on the image display unit 104. When a button notice effect with the effect result “no cut-in” is performed, even if the player presses the effect button 118 while the effect button image 401 is displayed, the cut-in image 402 is displayed as an image. It is not displayed on the part 104.

  Then, the gaming machine 100 ends the reach effect of the SPSP reach mode at the time t17 when the predetermined period T5 (T5> T4) has elapsed from the time t11, as shown in FIG. As shown, the effect symbols Ez1 to Ez3 are stopped and displayed. In the example shown in the drawing, since the jackpot determination result is a jackpot, the effect symbols Ez1 to Ez3 are stopped and displayed with “1” double eyes indicating a jackpot.

<Lever notice from SPSP reach>
Next, an example of an effect in the case where the lever notice effect is performed from the reach effect in the SPSP reach mode will be described. FIG. 5 is an explanatory view (No. 2) showing a specific example of the effect produced by the gaming machine of the present embodiment. Even when the lever notice effect is performed from the reach effect of the SPSP reach mode, from the start of the variable display of the effect symbols Ez1 to Ez3 to the start of the reach effect of the SPSP reach mode, the reach effect from the reach of the SPSP reach mode is performed. The content of the production is the same as that performed. For this reason, detailed description during this period will be omitted as appropriate.

  At time t <b> 20 in FIG. 5, the gaming machine 100 acquires the determination information because the game ball has won the first starting port 105. It should be noted that at the time of acquisition of this determination information, it is assumed that the gaming machine 100 is not performing a special symbol variation display or jackpot game, and has not stored other determination information.

  In this case, the gaming machine 100 performs a jackpot determination based on the determination information acquired at the time t20 at the time t21 immediately after the time t20, and displays the variation display of the effect symbols Ez1 to Ez3 as shown in FIG. Start. Then, similarly to the example of FIG. 4, the gaming machine 100 sequentially sets the normal reach mode, the SP reach mode, and the SPSP reach mode every time the predetermined periods T1, T2, and T3 elapse from the time t21.

  When performing the lever notice effect, the gaming machine 100 starts the lever notice effect at time t22 when a predetermined period T4 has elapsed from time t21, as shown in FIG. Here, the time t22 is a time during the reach production in the SPSP reach mode, similarly to the time t15, for example, the time immediately before the end of the reach production in the SPSP reach mode (that is, the time immediately before the jackpot determination result is shown). It is.

  For example, at the time of lever announcement effect, an operation lever image 403 simulating the operation lever 120 is displayed on the image display unit 104 as illustrated. That is, the gaming machine 100 instructs the player to operate the operation lever 120 by displaying the operation lever image 403. At time t22, since the reach effect in the SPSP reach mode is also performed, the live-action movie Mv2 is also displayed on the image display unit 104 as in time t15. The operation lever image 403 is displayed on the image display unit 104 in front of the live-action movie Mv2. In the case of the lever announcement effect, for example, “pull the operation lever” may be displayed on the image display unit 104, and the operation validity suggesting the operation effective period (remaining time) of the lever announcement effect is also possible. You may display a period.

  When the operation lever 120 is operated by the player at the time t23 when the operation lever image 403 is displayed, the gaming machine 100 hides the operation lever image 403 as shown in FIG. The effect result of the effect is notified to the player, and the lever notice effect is ended. As described above, in the present embodiment, there are “no movable member driving” and “movable member driving” as the effects of the lever notice effect. In the example shown in the figure, since the jackpot determination result is a jackpot, a lever notice effect with the effect result “movable accessory driving” is performed, so that the movable accessory 130 advances to the front of the image display unit 104. doing. Note that when the lever notice effect of “no moving movable object driving” is performed, even if the player operates the operation lever 120 while the operation lever image 403 is displayed, the movable combination 130 is displayed as an image. There is no advance to the front of the display unit 104.

  Then, the gaming machine 100 ends the reach effect of the SPSP reach mode at time t24 when a predetermined period T6 (for example, T6> T5) has elapsed from time t21, as shown in FIG. The effect symbols Ez1 to Ez3 are stopped and displayed as shown. In the example shown in the drawing, since the jackpot determination result is a jackpot, the effect symbols Ez1 to Ez3 are stopped and displayed with “1” double eyes indicating a jackpot.

<Lever notice from freeze production>
FIG. 6A is an explanatory diagram (part 3) showing a specific example of the effect produced by the gaming machine of the present embodiment. As described above, the gaming machine 100 can perform the lever notice effect from the reach effect in the SPSP reach mode, but can also perform the lever notice effect from the freeze effect. FIG. 6A shows an effect example when the gaming machine 100 performs a lever notice effect from a freeze effect.

  At time t30 in FIG. 6A, the gaming machine 100 acquires the determination information because the game ball has won the first starting port 105. Note that, at the time of obtaining this determination information, for example, it is assumed that the gaming machine 100 is performing a variable symbol special display. In this case, the gaming machine 100 suspends execution of the jackpot determination based on the determination information acquired at time t30. However, since the gaming machine 100 makes a prior determination at the time of obtaining the determination information, it can obtain in advance information indicating whether or not the jackpot determination is determined to be a jackpot before the jackpot determination based on the determination information. For example, here, it is assumed that determination information that is a big hit at time t30 is acquired.

  In this case, the gaming machine 100 starts the freeze effect at time t31 immediately after time t30, as shown in FIG. For example, normally, the gaming machine 100 displays a background image on the back of the production symbols Ez1 to Ez3 in the image display unit 104. The background image is a moving image, and more specifically, for example, is an image in which the character is walking in the city and the scenery around the character changes accordingly. Then, during the freeze effect, the movement of the background image stops. More specifically, for example, the movement of the character is stopped, and accordingly, the scenery around the character is not changed.

  However, the gaming machine 100 does not stop the effect symbols Ez1 to Ez3 even during the freeze effect. If the effect symbols Ez1 to Ez3 are also stopped by the freeze effect, the player may misunderstand that the effect symbols Ez1 to Ez3 stopped by the freeze effect indicate the jackpot determination result. is there.

  Further, the gaming machine 100 may reduce the effect symbols Ez1 to Ez3 and display them at the corners of the display screen during the freeze effect. In this way, the gaming machine 100 can make the moving effect symbols Ez1 to Ez3 inconspicuous for the player, and the image stopped by the freeze effect is relatively conspicuous for the player. It is possible to increase the effect of producing the freeze effect. In addition, when the game machine 100 suspends execution of the jackpot determination, as shown in FIG. 6A, the gaming machine 100 displays a hold icon I indicating that there is held determination information on the image display unit 104. .

  Thereafter, the gaming machine 100 performs the jackpot determination at the time t32 when the jackpot determination based on the determination information acquired at the time t30 can be executed (for example, when the special symbol variation display performed at the time of acquisition is completed) As shown in FIG. 6A, the variable symbols Ez1 to Ez3 are started to be displayed. At this time, the gaming machine 100 continuously performs the freeze effect starting from the time t31, and the effect symbols Ez1 to Ez3 are reduced and displayed near the corner of the display screen. Further, since the jackpot determination based on the determination information acquired at time t30 is performed, the hold icon I is deleted from the image display unit 104.

  Further, when the gaming machine 100 performs the lever notice effect from the freeze effect, the game machine 100 can execute the countdown effect with a predetermined probability (for example, 50/100 probability) before the lever notice effect. That is, the gaming machine 100 may or may not perform the countdown effect before the lever notice effect when performing the lever notice effect from the freeze effect.

  When performing the countdown effect, the gaming machine 100 starts the countdown effect from time t32. For example, in the countdown effect, the remaining time until the start of the lever notice effect is counted down. In the illustrated example, since the period from the time t32 to the time t33 at which the lever notice effect is started is T4, “after T4” is displayed on the image display unit 104.

  In the gaming machine 100, when the freeze effect and the countdown effect are performed in this way, it is determined that the lever notice effect is performed thereafter. That is, in this case, the button notice effect is not performed after the freeze effect and the countdown effect.

  Then, the gaming machine 100 ends the countdown effect and the freeze effect at the time t33 when the predetermined period T4 has elapsed from the time t32, and starts the lever notice effect, as shown in FIG. Here, time t33 is a time when a predetermined period T4 has elapsed from time t32. As a result, the operation lever image 403 is displayed on the image display unit 104 as in the above-described time t22. In addition, when the lever notice effect is performed from the reach effect of the SPSP reach mode, the effect symbols Ez1 to Ez3 are displayed in the reach state at the time of the lever notice effect, but when the lever notice effect is performed from the freeze effect In the lever notice effect, the effect symbols Ez1 to Ez3 are all displayed in a variably displayed state. That is, when the lever notice effect is performed from the freeze effect, the effect symbols Ez1 to Ez3 are not in the reach state at the time of the lever notice effect.

  When the operation lever 120 is operated by the player at time t34 while the operation lever image 403 is displayed, the gaming machine 100 hides the operation lever image 403 as shown in FIG. The effect of the lever notice effect is notified to the player, and the lever notice effect is ended. Here, since the jackpot determination result was a big hit, a lever notice effect with a production result of “movable accessory driving” is performed, so that the movable accessory 130 advances to the front of the image display unit 104. Yes.

  Then, the gaming machine 100 stops and displays the effect symbols Ez1 to Ez3 so as to show the jackpot determination result as shown in FIG. 6A at time t35 when the predetermined period T6 has elapsed from time t32. In the example shown in the drawing, since the jackpot determination result is a jackpot, the effect symbols Ez1 to Ez3 are stopped and displayed with “1” double eyes indicating a jackpot. As described herein, the freeze effect that is performed until the start of the lever notice effect is hereinafter referred to as a “long freeze effect”.

  As described above, the gaming machine 100 may not perform the countdown effect before the lever notification effect even when the lever notification effect is performed from the freeze effect. In this case, for example, only the display related to the countdown effect (for example, the display of “after T4” described above) is not performed, and the other points have the same effect content as the example of FIG.

  In order to further enhance the interest of the gaming machine 100, the gaming machine 100 may be provided with a case where the lever notice effect is not performed from the freeze effect as described below. 6-2 is explanatory drawing (the 4) which shows the specific example of an effect by the game machine of this Embodiment. In addition, even when the lever notice effect is not performed from the freeze effect, the contents of the production are common to the case where the lever notice effect is performed from the freeze effect until the start of the freeze effect. For this reason, detailed description during this period will be omitted as appropriate.

  At time t <b> 40 in FIG. 6B, the gaming machine 100 acquires the determination information because the game ball has won the first starting port 105. Note that, at the time of obtaining this determination information, for example, it is assumed that the gaming machine 100 is performing a variable symbol special display. In this case, the gaming machine 100 suspends execution of the jackpot determination based on the determination information acquired at time t40. For example, here, it is assumed that determination information that is a big hit at time t40 is acquired.

  In this case, the gaming machine 100 starts the freeze effect at time t41 immediately after time t40, as shown in FIG. Thereafter, the gaming machine 100 performs the jackpot determination at the time t42 when the jackpot determination based on the determination information acquired at the time t40 can be executed (for example, when the special symbol variation display performed at the time of acquisition is completed), As shown in FIG. 6B, the change display of the effect symbols Ez1 to Ez3 is started. At this time, the gaming machine 100 continuously performs the freeze effect starting from the time t41, and the effect symbols Ez1 to Ez3 are reduced and displayed near the corner of the display screen. Note that the gaming machine 100 does not perform the countdown effect when the lever notification effect is not performed from the freeze effect, unlike the case where the lever notification effect is performed from the freeze effect.

  In this case, the gaming machine 100 ends the freeze effect at the time t43 when the predetermined period T2 has elapsed from the time t42, and starts the reach effect in the SP reach mode as shown in FIG. To do. In this case, when the reach production in the SP reach mode is started, the production symbols Ez1 to Ez3 are in the reach state. Thereafter, as in the case of FIG. 4, when the predetermined period T3 elapses from the time t42, the SPSP reach mode is set, and when the predetermined period T4 elapses from the time t42, the button notice effect is started. As described here, the freeze effect that is performed until the start of the reach effect in the SP reach mode is referred to as a “short freeze effect”.

  As described above, in the gaming machine 100, when the reach effect in the SPSP reach mode is performed, there are cases where the button notice effect is performed after that and the lever notice effect is performed. On the other hand, in the gaming machine 100, when the freeze effect and the countdown effect are performed, the button notice effect is not performed after that, and the lever notice effect is performed. Therefore, in the gaming machine 100, when the freeze effect and the countdown effect are performed, the probability that the lever notice effect is performed after that is higher than when the reach effect of the SPSP reach mode is performed. Therefore, the gaming machine 100 can give the player a sense of expectation that “the lever notice effect may be performed” even when the reach effect in the SPSP reach mode is not performed.

  Further, in the gaming machine 100, when the reach effect of the SPSP reach mode is performed, there are a case where a button notice effect is performed after that and a case where a lever notice effect is performed. For this reason, the gaming machine 100 can give the player a sense of tension such as “not a button notice effect but a lever expectation effect with a high jackpot expectation” in the SPSP reach mode.

  In the gaming machine 100, when a freeze effect and a countdown effect are performed, a lever notice effect is subsequently performed. For this reason, the gaming machine 100 can give the player a sense of security such as “becoming a lever notice effect” and a waiting time such as “become a lever notice effect early” when performing a freeze effect and a countdown effect. It has become.

  Further, in the gaming machine 100, even if the lever notice effect is performed after the freeze effect, the countdown effect may not be performed. For this reason, even if the gaming machine 100 performs a short freeze effect, it may be a “long freeze effect without a countdown effect (ie, a lever notice effect may be performed) until the reach effect in the SP reach mode is started. ) "Can be given to the player.

<Example of hardware configuration of gaming machine>
Next, an example of a hardware configuration of the gaming machine 100 for the gaming machine 100 to perform the above-described operation will be described. FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram (part 1) illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of the gaming machine according to the present embodiment. The gaming machine 100 includes a main control unit 701 that controls the progress of the game, a prize ball control unit 702 that controls the payout of prize balls, and an effect control unit 703 that controls the production.

<Main control unit>
First, the main control unit 701 will be described. The main control unit 701 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 711, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 712, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 713, an input / output interface (I / O) (not shown), and the like.

  The CPU 711 controls the entire main control unit 701. The ROM 712 stores programs and data related to the progress of the game. The RAM 713 is used as a work area for the CPU 711. The main control unit 701 receives signals from various switches (hereinafter abbreviated as “SW”).

  For example, signals are input to the main control unit 701 from the first start port SW714a and the second start port SW714b. The first start port SW 714 a is a SW that detects a game ball won in the first start port 105, and inputs a detection signal to the main control unit 701 when a win in the first start port 105 is detected. The second start port SW 714 b is a SW that detects a game ball won in the second start port 106, and inputs a detection signal to the main control unit 701 when detecting a win in the second start port 106.

  Further, for example, signals are input to the main control unit 701 from the gate SW 715, the big prize opening SW 716, and the normal prize opening SW 717. The gate SW 715 is a SW that detects a game ball that has passed through the gate 108. When the passage of the gate 108 is detected, a detection signal is input to the main control unit 701. The special winning opening SW 716 is a SW that detects a game ball won in the special winning opening 109, and inputs a detection signal to the main control unit 701 when a winning at the special winning opening 109 is detected. The normal winning opening SW 717 is a SW that detects a game ball won in the normal winning opening 110, and inputs a detection signal to the main control unit 701 when a winning at the normal winning opening 110 is detected. For example, proximity switches can be used for these SWs.

  Based on the detection signals input from the various SWs 714 to 717, the main control unit 701 stores determination information or issues a prize ball payout instruction to the prize ball control unit 702.

  Further, the main control unit 701 is configured to be able to input control signals to various solenoids such as the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 718 and the big prize opening solenoid 719. The ordinary electric accessory solenoid 718 is a solenoid that opens and closes the ordinary electric accessory 107 based on a control signal from the main control unit 701. The special winning opening solenoid 719 is a solenoid that opens and closes the special winning opening 109 based on a control signal from the main control unit 701.

  Further, the main control unit 701 is configured to be able to input a control signal to the information display unit 112. As described above, the information display unit 112 includes the special symbol display unit 201 (the first special symbol display unit 201a and the second special symbol display unit 201b), the normal symbol display unit 202, the reserved number display unit 203, the round And a number display unit 204. The information display unit 112 performs display control of special symbols and normal symbols based on the control signal input from the main control unit 701.

  The main control unit 701 is configured to be able to input various information to the prize ball control unit 702 and the effect control unit 703. Further, the main control unit 701 can output various kinds of information to the outside via the board external information terminal board 791. Note that the main control unit 701 can realize its function by a main control board, for example.

<Prize ball control unit>
Next, the winning ball control unit 702 will be described. The prize ball controller 702 includes a CPU 721, a ROM 722, a RAM 723, an input / output interface (not shown), and the like. The CPU 721 controls the prize ball control unit 702 as a whole. The ROM 722 stores programs and data related to payout of prize balls. The RAM 723 is used as a work area for the CPU 721. In addition, signals from various SWs are input to the prize ball control unit 702.

  For example, the prize ball control unit 702 receives signals from a fixed position detection SW 724 and a payout ball detection SW 725. The fixed position detection SW 724 is a SW that detects a game ball located at a predetermined position. When a game ball located at a predetermined position is detected, a detection signal is input to the prize ball control unit 702. The payout ball detection SW 725 is a SW that detects a paid-out game ball, and inputs a detection signal to the prize ball control unit 702 every time a paid-out game ball is detected.

  Further, for example, the prize ball control unit 702 receives signals from a ball presence detection SW 726 and a full tank detection SW 727. The ball presence detection SW 726 is a SW that detects the presence or absence of a game ball in the hit ball supply tray provided on the front surface of the frame. When a game ball in the hit ball supply tray is detected, a detection signal is input to the prize ball control unit 702. . The full tank detection SW 727 is a SW for detecting that the hitting ball supply tray is filled with game balls. When it is detected that the hit ball supply tray is filled with game balls, a detection signal is input to the award ball control unit 702. To do. For example, proximity switches can be used for these SWs.

  In addition, various information (for example, a payout instruction) is input to the prize ball control unit 702 from the main control unit 701. The winning ball control unit 702 pays out a winning ball or stops paying out a winning ball based on the information input from the main control unit 701 and the detection signals input from the various SWs 724 to 727. The prize ball control unit 702 may output detection signals input from the various SWs 724 to 727 to the main control unit 701.

  The prize ball control unit 702 is configured to be able to input a control signal to the launch unit 728 and the payout unit 729. For example, when the prize ball control unit 702 detects an operation of launching a game ball, the prize ball control unit 702 controls the launch unit 728 to launch the game ball toward the game area 103. The prize ball control unit 702 controls the payout unit 729 based on a payout instruction or the like from the main control unit 701 to pay out a prize ball.

  The prize ball controller 702 can also output various types of information to the outside via the frame external information terminal board 792. The prize ball control unit 702 can realize its function by a prize ball control board, for example.

<Example of table stored in main controller>
Next, an example of a table stored in the ROM 712 of the main control unit 701 will be described. 8-1 is explanatory drawing (the 1) which shows an example of the table memorize | stored in the main-control part of this Embodiment. FIG. 8-2 is an explanatory diagram (part 2) of an example of a table stored in the main control unit of the present embodiment.

<Winning judgment table>
The winning determination table shown in FIG. 8A is used for “win determination” in which it is determined whether a big hit, a small hit or a loss. For example, this winning determination is performed as one of the processes related to the jackpot determination.

  As shown in FIG. 8A, the winning determination table is configured by associating a big hit determination value and a small hit determination value with each of the low probability gaming state and the high probability gaming state. For the sake of explanation, FIG. 8-1 (A) shows, for the sake of explanation, a determination probability determined to be a big win and a small win in the winning determination in the low probability gaming state, and a jackpot and a small winning in the winning determination in the high probability gaming state. The determination probability to be determined is also shown.

  At the time of winning determination, the main control unit 701 determines whether or not the winning determination random number to be determined matches the jackpot determination value associated with the low-probability gaming state, and the low probability if it is a low-probability gaming state at that time. It is determined whether or not the small hit determination value associated with the gaming state matches. On the other hand, if the main control unit 701 is a high-probability gaming state at that time, whether or not the winning determination random number to be determined matches the jackpot determination value associated with the high-probability gaming state, and the high-probability gaming state It is determined whether or not it matches the small hit determination value associated with.

  Then, the main control unit 701 determines a big hit if the winning determination random number to be determined matches the big hit determination value, and determines a big hit if it matches the small hit determination value. Further, the main control unit 701 determines a loss if the winning determination random number to be determined does not match the big hit determination value or the small hit determination value.

  In the gaming machine 100, the winning determination random number is set to any integer from “0” to “249”. In the gaming machine 100, the jackpot determination value associated with the low probability gaming state is set to “0”, and the jackpot determination value associated with the low probability gaming state is set to “10”. Therefore, in the winning determination in the low-probability gaming state, the determination probability determined to be a big hit is “1/250”, and the determination probability determined to be a small win is “1/250”.

  In the gaming machine 100, the jackpot determination value associated with the high probability gaming state is an integer from “0” to “6”, and the small hit determination value associated with the high probability gaming state is “10, 11”. " Therefore, in the winning determination in the high-probability gaming state, the determination probability determined to be a big win is “7/250”, and the determination probability determined to be a small win is “2/250”.

<Big jackpot determination table>
The jackpot symbol determination table shown in FIG. 8-1 (B) is used for “big jackpot symbol determination” performed when it is determined that a jackpot is determined in the winning determination. For example, this jackpot symbol determination is performed as one of the processes related to the jackpot determination.

  As shown in FIG. 8B, the jackpot symbol determination table includes a jackpot symbol determination value for the first start port 105 and a jackpot symbol for the second start port 106 for each of the jackpot symbol α to the jackpot symbol δ. It is configured by associating a symbol determination value. For the sake of explanation, FIG. 8-1 (B) also shows the determination probability of each jackpot symbol in the jackpot symbol determination.

  At the time of jackpot symbol determination, if the symbol determination random number to be determined is acquired by winning the first start port 105, the main control unit 701 is a jackpot for the first start port 105 that matches the symbol determination random number to be determined. The jackpot symbol associated with the symbol determination value is determined. On the other hand, if the determination target symbol determination random number has been acquired by winning the second start port 106, the main control unit 701 determines the jackpot symbol determination value for the second start port 106 that matches the determination target symbol determination random number. The jackpot symbol associated with is determined. The main control unit 701 uses the jackpot symbol associated with the jackpot symbol determination value that matches the symbol determination random number to be determined as the determination result of the jackpot symbol determination.

  In the gaming machine 100, the symbol determination random number is set to any integer from “0” to “99”. In the gaming machine 100, the jackpot symbol determination value for the first start port 105 of the jackpot symbol α is an integer from “0” to “29”, and the jackpot symbol determination value for the first start port 105 of the jackpot symbol β is set. Is an integer from “30” to “49”. Further, in the gaming machine 100, the jackpot symbol determination value for the first start port 105 of the jackpot symbol γ is an integer from “50” to “69”, and the jackpot symbol determination value for the first start port 105 of the jackpot symbol δ is set. Is an integer from “70” to “99”.

  For this reason, in the jackpot symbol determination when the symbol determination random number to be determined is acquired by winning the first starting port 105, the determination probability determined to be the jackpot symbol α is “30/100”, and the jackpot symbol β The determination probability determined is “20/100”, the determination probability determined as jackpot symbol γ is “20/100”, and the determination probability determined as jackpot symbol δ is “30/100”.

  In the gaming machine 100, the jackpot symbol determination value for the second start port 106 of the jackpot symbol α is an integer from “0” to “54”, and the jackpot symbol determination value for the second start port 106 of the jackpot symbol β is set. Is an integer from “55” to “74”. Further, in the gaming machine 100, the jackpot symbol determination value for the second start port 106 of the jackpot symbol γ is an integer from “75” to “94”, and the jackpot symbol determination value for the second start port 106 of the jackpot symbol δ is set. Was an integer from “95” to “99”.

  For this reason, in the jackpot symbol determination when the determination target symbol determination random number is acquired by winning the second starting port 106, the determination probability determined to be the jackpot symbol α is “55/100”, and the jackpot symbol β The determination probability determined is “20/100”, the determination probability determined as jackpot symbol γ is “20/100”, and the determination probability determined as jackpot symbol δ is “5/100”.

<Small hit design determination table>
The small hit symbol determination table shown in FIG. 8-1 (C) is used for “small hit symbol determination” that is performed when it is determined that a small hit is made in the winning determination. For example, the small hit symbol determination is performed as one of the processes related to the big hit determination.

  As shown in FIG. 8-1 (C), the small hitting symbol determination table includes a small hitting symbol determination value for the first starting port 105 and a second starting port for each of the small hitting symbol ε and the small hitting symbol ζ. 106 is configured in association with the small hit symbol determination value for 106. For the sake of explanation, FIG. 8-1 (C) also shows the determination probability of each small hit symbol in the small hit symbol determination.

  In determining the small hit symbol, the main control unit 701 determines the symbol for the first start port 105 that matches the symbol determination random number of the determination target if the symbol determination random number of the determination target is acquired by winning the first start port 105. The small hit symbol associated with the small hit symbol determination value is determined. On the other hand, if the determination target symbol determination random number is acquired by winning the second start port 106, the main control unit 701 determines the small hit symbol determination for the second start port 106 that matches the determination target symbol determination random number. The small hit symbol associated with the value is determined. Then, the main control unit 701 uses the small hit symbol associated with the small hit symbol determination value that matches the determination target symbol determination random number as the determination result of the small hit symbol determination.

  As described above, in the gaming machine 100, the symbol determination random number is any integer from “0” to “99”. Further, in the gaming machine 100, the small hitting symbol determination value for the first starting port 105 of the small hitting symbol ε is an integer from “0” to “59”, and the small hitting symbol ζ is small for the first starting port 105. The winning symbol determination value is an integer from “60” to “99”. For this reason, in the small hit symbol determination when the determination target symbol determination random number is acquired by winning the first starting port 105, the determination probability determined as the small hit symbol ε is “60/100”, and the small hit symbol The determination probability for determining the symbol ζ is “40/100”.

  In the gaming machine 100, the small hitting symbol determination value for the second starting port 106 of the small hitting symbol ε is an integer from “0” to “39”, and the small hitting symbol ζ is small for the second starting port 106. The winning symbol determination value is an integer from “40” to “99”. For this reason, in the small hit symbol determination when the determination target symbol determination random number is acquired by winning the second start port 106, the determination probability determined as the small hit symbol ε is “40/100”, and the small hit symbol The determination probability for determining the symbol ζ is “60/100”.

<Variation pattern determination table>
The fluctuation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 8-2 (D), FIG. 8-2 (E), FIG. 8-2 (F), or FIG. Is used. Here, the variation pattern defines the variation pattern of the special symbol, and for example, defines the variation time of the special symbol as illustrated.

  As shown in FIG. 8-2 (D), FIG. 8-2 (E), FIG. 8-2 (F), and FIG. 8-2 (G), the variation pattern determination table includes a variation pattern for each variation pattern. The judgment value is associated with each other. 8-2 (D), FIG. 8-2 (E), FIG. 8-2 (F), and FIG. 8-2 (G), for the sake of explanation, the variation time determined by each variation pattern. And the determination probability of each variation pattern in the variation pattern determination.

  When determining the variation pattern, first, the main control unit 701 uses the jackpot determination result (or the preliminary determination result) and the gaming state at that time (whether it is a non-auxiliary gaming state or an auxiliary gaming state) for the variation pattern determination. The variation pattern determination table is determined. For example, the main control unit 701 determines that the jackpot determination result is a loss and the non-auxiliary gaming state / losing variation pattern determination table in FIG. Further, the main control unit 701 determines that the jackpot determination result is a loss, and if it is an auxiliary gaming state at that time, the auxiliary gaming state / loss variation pattern determination table of FIG.

  Moreover, if the big hit determination result is a big hit other than the 2R latent big hit, the main control unit 701 determines the long hit variation pattern determination table in FIG. Further, if the big hit determination result is the 2R latent big hit or the small hit, the main control unit 701 determines the short hit variation pattern determination table of FIG.

  Subsequently, the main control unit 701 compares the variation pattern determination value associated with each variation pattern in the variation pattern determination table specified in this way with the variation pattern determination random number to be determined. Thus, the main control unit 701 determines a variation pattern associated with a variation pattern determination value that matches the variation pattern determination random number.

  In the gaming machine 100, the variation pattern determination random number is set to any integer from “0” to “99”. Further, for example, in the non-auxiliary gaming state / loss variation pattern determination table of FIG. 8-2 (D), the variation pattern determination values of the variation pattern Hp10a and the variation pattern Hp10b are integers from “0” to “64”. The variation pattern judgment value of the pattern Hp11 is an integer from “65” to “84”. Further, in this non-auxiliary gaming state / losing variation pattern determination table, the variation pattern determination value of the variation pattern Hp12 is an integer from “85” to “94”, and the variation pattern determination value of the variation pattern Hp13 is “95” to “ It was an integer up to "99".

  For this reason, in the variation pattern determination when the non-auxiliary gaming state / losing variation pattern determination table is used, the determination probability determined as the variation pattern Hp10a and the variation pattern Hp10b is “65/100”, which is determined as the variation pattern Hp11. The determination probability to be determined is “20/100”, the determination probability to be determined as the variation pattern Hp12 is “10/100”, and the determination probability to be determined as the variation pattern Hp13 is “5/100”.

  In the non-auxiliary gaming state / losing variation pattern determination table, the same variation pattern determination value is associated with the variation pattern Hp10a and the variation pattern Hp10b. For this reason, when the variation pattern determination random number to be determined is any integer from “0” to “64”, the main control unit 701 refers to the hold number (U) at that time, for example, the hold number Is less than “3” (U <3), the variation pattern Hp10a is determined, and if the number of holdings is “3” or more (U ≧ 3), the variation pattern Hp10b is determined.

  Although detailed explanation is omitted, in the variation pattern determination when another variation pattern determination table is used, the determination probability of each variation pattern is the variation pattern determination associated with the variation pattern in the figure. It is as described on the right side of the value.

<Production control unit>
Next, the production control unit 703 will be described. FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram (part 2) illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of the gaming machine according to the present embodiment. The effect control unit 703 includes an effect control unit 703a that controls the entire effect control unit 703, an image / sound control unit 703b that performs display control of the image display unit 104 and audio output control of the speaker 114, lamp lighting control and movable A lamp control unit 703c for controlling the driving of the accessory 130.

<Director General>
First, the production control unit 703a will be described. The production control unit 703a includes a CPU 731, a ROM 732, a RAM 733, an RTC (Real-Time Clock) 734, an input / output interface (I / O) (not shown), and the like.

  The CPU 731 controls the entire production control unit 703a. The ROM 732 stores programs, data, and the like for controlling the effect control unit 703. The RAM 733 is used as a work area for the CPU 731.

  The RTC 734 counts and outputs real time. The RTC 734 is supplied with power by a backup power source (not shown) even if the gaming machine 100 is powered off for a certain period (for example, one day). For this reason, the RTC 734 can continue the timing operation for a certain period even when the power of the gaming machine 100 is shut off.

  Although FIG. 9 shows an example in which the RTC 734 is provided in the production control unit 703a, the RTC 734 may be provided in the main control unit 701, the image / audio control unit 703b, or the like. Further, the RTC 734 may be arranged independently and configured to output information indicating the actual time measured with respect to the production control unit 703a and the like.

  In addition, a predetermined control signal is input from the effect button 118, the cross key 119, and the operation lever 120 to the effect control unit 703a. The effect button 118, the cross key 119, and the operation lever 120 input a control signal corresponding to the button or lever operated by the player to the effect control unit 703a. Thereby, the production control unit 703a can accept operations of the production button 118, the cross key 119, and the operation lever 120.

  The production control unit 703a can communicate various information with the image / sound control unit 703b and the lamp control unit 703c. The production supervision unit 703a can realize the function by, for example, a production control board.

<Image / sound controller>
Next, the image / sound control unit 703b will be described. The image / sound controller 703b includes a CPU 741, a ROM 742, a RAM 743, a VRAM 744, an input / output interface (I / O) (not shown), and the like.

  The CPU 741 controls the entire image / sound controller 703b. The ROM 742 stores a program, data, and the like for outputting an image and sound (effect sound) related to the effect instructed by the effect control unit 703a. For example, the ROM 742 stores effect data. The effect data includes image data representing a symbol image of the effect symbol, image data representing a background image, moving image data representing a moving image reproduced for reach production, effect sound data representing sound effects, BGM, and the like. The RAM 743 is used as a work area for the CPU 741.

  For example, the CPU 741 reads image data related to the effect instructed to be executed by the effect supervising unit 703 a from the effect data in the ROM 742, generates display data from this image data, and stores it in the VRAM 744.

  When generating the display data, the CPU 741 uses a known hidden surface removal method such as a Z buffer method to arrange a predetermined image on the front side of the other images. For example, the CPU 741 arranges images such as effect symbols Ez1 to Ez3, reach effect and the like (for example, the above-described animation movie Mv1 and live-action movie Mv2) and background image from the front side when the freeze effect is not being performed.

  On the other hand, during the freeze effect, the CPU 741 arranges the effect symbols Ez1 to Ez3, background images, images such as the reach effect (for example, the aforementioned animation movie Mv1 and live-action movie Mv2) from the front side. That is, during the freeze effect, the background image whose movement is stopped by the freeze effect is displayed on the near side of the image such as the reach effect, so that the image such as the reach effect is shielded by this background image. , Reach production and other images will be invisible to the player. Note that the display data stored in the VRAM 744 is output to the image display unit 104 at a predetermined timing. As a result, the image indicated by the display data is displayed on the display screen of the image display unit 104.

  In addition, the CPU 741 reads the effect sound data related to the effect instructed to be executed by the effect control unit 703 a from the effect data in the ROM 742, generates sound output data, and stores it in the RAM 743. The audio output data stored in the RAM 743 is output to the speaker 114 at a predetermined timing. As a result, the sound indicated by the sound output data is output from the speaker 114.

<Lamp control unit>
Next, the lamp control unit 703c will be described. The lamp control unit 703c includes a CPU 751, a ROM 752, a RAM 753, an input / output interface (I / O) (not shown), and the like. The CPU 751 controls the entire lamp control unit 703c. ROM752 memorize | stores the program, data, etc. for controlling lighting of the lamp | ramp regarding the production instruct | indicated by the production supervision part 703a, or driving of the movable accessory 130. FIG. The RAM 753 is used as a work area for the CPU 751.

  For example, the ROM 752 stores control data. The control data includes drive control data for driving the movable accessory 130, lighting control data for lighting each lamp of the effect light unit 115 and the panel lamp 761, and the like. The CPU 751 reads drive control data related to the effect instructed to be executed by the effect supervising unit 703a from the control data and stores it in the RAM 753, and sends a control signal corresponding to the drive control data to the motor of the movable accessory 130 at a predetermined timing. input.

  Accordingly, the lamp control unit 703c can drive the movable accessory 130. The lamp control unit 703c is also connected to a movable accessory sensor 762 that detects the position of the movable accessory 130. The lamp controller 703c receives a detection signal from the movable accessory sensor 762, and based on the detection signal, the lamp control unit 703c receives the detection signal. The driving can also be controlled.

  Further, the CPU 751 reads lighting control data related to the effect instructed to be executed by the effect supervising unit 703a from the control data and stores it in the RAM 753. The control signal corresponding to the lighting control data is output at a predetermined timing at the effect light unit 115 or the like. Input to the lighting control circuit of the panel lamp 761. As a result, the lamp control unit 703c can turn on the lamps of the effect light unit 115 and the panel lamp 761.

  In the present embodiment, the production control unit 703 is configured such that the production control unit 703a, the image / audio control unit 703b, and the lamp control unit 703c are provided as different boards, but these are incorporated on the same printed board. May be. However, each function is independent even when they are incorporated on the same printed circuit board.

<An example of a table stored in the production control department>
Next, an example of a table stored in the ROM 732 of the production control unit 703a will be described. 10-1 is explanatory drawing (the 1) which shows an example of the table memorize | stored in the production control part of this Embodiment. 10-2 is explanatory drawing (the 2) which shows an example of the table memorize | stored in the production control part of this Embodiment.

<Production pattern determination table>
The effect pattern determination table shown in FIG. 10-1 (H) is used for “effect pattern determination” in which an effect pattern is determined. Here, the effect pattern defines the effect aspect of the effect performed during the variation display of the effect symbol, and determines, for example, the presence / absence of the reach effect or the effect aspect of the reach effect.

  As illustrated in FIG. 10-1 (H), the effect pattern determination table is configured by associating a variation pattern with each effect pattern. In addition, in FIG. 10-1 (H), the effect aspect defined by each effect pattern is also described for description. In determining the production pattern, the production supervision unit 703a determines the production pattern associated with the variation pattern based on the information (for example, variation start command) indicating the variation pattern received from the main control unit 701.

  For example, if the information indicating the variation pattern received from the main control unit 701 indicates the variation pattern Hp33a, the effect supervision unit 703a determines the effect pattern Ep33a in the effect pattern determination. Here, the production pattern Ep33a is developed from the normal reach mode to the SP reach mode, and the reach pattern is developed from the SP reach mode to the SPSP reach mode. For example, it is an effect pattern that defines a series of effects described in FIG.

  For example, if the information indicating the variation pattern received from the main control unit 701 indicates the variation pattern Hp33b, the effect supervision unit 703a determines the effect pattern Ep33b in the effect pattern determination. Here, the production pattern Ep33b is developed from the normal reach mode to the SP reach mode, and the reach pattern is developed from the SP reach mode to the SPSP reach mode, and the lever notice effect is performed, and the final big win is produced. For example, it is an effect pattern that defines a series of effects described in FIG.

  In the effect pattern determination table, the effect patterns associated with the variation pattern Hp13 include an effect pattern Ep13a, an effect pattern Ep13b, and an effect pattern Ep13c. For this reason, when the information indicated by the variation pattern received from the main control unit 701 is the variation pattern Hp13, the production supervision unit 703a performs the “predictive effect execution determination” described later, thereby producing the production pattern Ep13a and the production pattern Ep13b. The production pattern Ep13c is determined.

  Here, the effect pattern Ep13b is an effect pattern provided so as to be paired with the effect pattern Ep33a (as a loss pattern for the effect of the effect pattern Ep33a). The effect pattern Ep13b is developed from the normal reach mode to the SP reach mode. In addition to performing a reach effect that develops from an aspect to an SPSP reach aspect, a button notice effect is performed, and an effect that ultimately becomes a lose (reach lose) is determined.

  Further, here, the effect pattern Ep13c is an effect pattern provided as a pair with the effect pattern Ep33b (as a loss pattern of the effect of the effect pattern Ep33b), which is developed from the normal reach mode to the SP reach mode, and the SP reach. In addition to performing a reach effect that develops from an aspect to an SPSP reach aspect, a lever notice effect is performed, and an effect that ultimately becomes a lose (reach lose) is determined.

<Notice effect execution determination table>
The notice effect execution determination table shown in FIG. 10-2 (I) is used for “notice effect execution determination”. As shown in FIG. 10-2 (I), the notice effect execution determination table is configured by associating the effect pattern determination values with the effect pattern Ep13a, the effect pattern Ep13b, and the effect pattern Ep13c. In addition, in FIG. 10-2 (I), the determination probability of each effect pattern in the notice effect execution determination is also described for the sake of explanation.

  In performing the notice effect execution determination, the effect supervising unit 703a acquires an effect pattern determination random number, and determines an effect pattern associated with an effect pattern determination value that matches the effect pattern determination random number. In the gaming machine 100, the production pattern determination random number is set to any integer from “0” to “99”. In the gaming machine 100, the effect pattern determination value of the effect pattern Ep13a is an integer from “0” to “49”, and the effect pattern determination value of the effect pattern Ep13b is an integer from “50” to “89”. The effect pattern determination value of the pattern Ep13c is an integer from “90” to “99”.

  For this reason, in the notice effect execution determination, the determination probability determined as the effect pattern Ep13a is “50/100”, the determination probability determined as the effect pattern Ep13b is “40/100”, and determined as the effect pattern Ep13c. The determination probability is “10/100”. Therefore, in the gaming machine 100, in the reach effect of the SPSP reach mode that is lost, the button notice effect and the lever notice effect are not performed with the probability of “50/100”, and the button notice effect is performed with the probability of “40/100”. Therefore, the lever announcement effect is performed with a probability of “10/100”.

<Example of table stored in image / sound controller>
Next, an example of a table stored in the ROM 742 of the image / sound control unit 703b will be described. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a table stored in the image / sound control unit of the present embodiment.

<Button notice effect determination table>
The button notice effect result determination table shown in FIG. 11J is used for “button notice effect result determination” for determining the result of the button notice effect. As shown in FIG. 11 (J), the button notice effect result determination table corresponds to each of the loss of jackpot determination result and the jackpot, with a cut-in determination value indicating that the effect result of the button notice effect is “with cut-in”. It is configured with. In FIG. 11 (J), for the sake of explanation, the determination probability of determining “with cut-in” in the button notice effect result determination is also shown.

  When determining the button notice effect result, the image / sound control unit 703b acquires a button notice effect result determination random number, and determines whether or not the button notice effect result determination random number matches the cut-in determination value. If the image / sound control unit 703b matches the cut-in determination value, the image / sound control unit 703b determines that the button notification effect of “with cut-in” is performed. If the result does not match the cut-in determination value, the effect result is “cut”. It is determined that the button notice effect “no in” is performed.

  In the gaming machine 100, the button notice effect result determination random number is set to any integer from “0” to “99”. In the gaming machine 100, the loss cut-in determination value is an integer from “0” to “29”, and the jackpot cut-in determination value is an integer from “0” to “79”. For this reason, in the button notice effect result determination in the case of a loss, it is determined as “with cut-in” with a probability of “30/100”, and in the button notice effect result determination in the case of a jackpot, “cut” with a probability of “80/100”. In ”is determined.

<Freeze production execution determination table>
The freeze effect execution determination table shown in FIG. 11K is used for “freeze effect execution determination” for determining whether or not to perform a freeze effect. As shown in FIG. 11 (K), the freeze effect execution determination table is configured by associating each of the prior determination result loss and jackpot with a freeze determination value for determining “with freezing effect” in the freeze effect execution determination. Is done. For the sake of explanation, FIG. 11 (K) also shows the determination probability determined as “freeze effect is present” in the freeze effect execution determination.

  When performing the freeze effect execution determination, the image / sound control unit 703b acquires a freeze effect determination random number, and determines whether or not the freeze effect determination random number matches the freeze determination value. Then, the image / sound control unit 703b determines that the effect result is “with freeze effect” if it matches the freeze determination value, and determines that the effect result is “no freeze effect” if it does not match the freeze determination value.

  In the gaming machine 100, the freeze effect determination random number is set to any integer from “0” to “99”. Further, in the gaming machine 100, the loss freeze determination value is an integer from “0” to “29”, and the jackpot freeze determination value is an integer from “0” to “79”. For this reason, in the freeze effect execution determination in the case of a loss, it is determined as “freeze effect” with a probability of “30/100”, and in the freeze effect execution determination in the case of a jackpot, there is a “80/100” probability of “with freeze effect” Is determined.

<Countdown effect execution determination table>
The countdown effect execution determination table shown in FIG. 11 (L) is used for “countdown effect execution determination” for determining whether or not to perform a countdown effect. Although details will be described later, this countdown effect execution determination is performed only when it is determined that the lever notice effect is being performed (that is, only when the effect pattern determination result is either the effect pattern Ep13c or Ep33b). To be done.

  As shown in FIG. 11 (L), a countdown determination value for determining “there is a countdown effect” in the countdown effect execution determination is set in the countdown effect execution determination table. For the sake of explanation, FIG. 11 (L) also shows a determination probability that “countdown effect is present” is determined in the countdown effect execution determination.

  When performing the countdown effect execution determination, the image / sound control unit 703b acquires the countdown effect determination random number, and determines whether or not the countdown effect determination random number matches the countdown determination value. Then, the image / sound control unit 703b determines that the effect result is “there is a countdown effect” if it matches the countdown determination value, and determines that the effect result is “no countdown effect” if it does not match the countdown determination value.

  In the gaming machine 100, the countdown effect determination random number is set to any integer from “0” to “99”. In the gaming machine 100, the countdown determination value is an integer from “0” to “49”. For this reason, in the gaming machine 100, regardless of the prior determination result or the jackpot determination result, in the countdown effect execution determination, it is determined that “the countdown effect is present” with a probability of “50/100”.

  Note that, here, the probability of determining “there is a countdown effect” in the countdown effect execution determination is fixed regardless of the prior determination result or the jackpot determination result, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, in the countdown effect execution determination table, a different countdown determination value is provided for each jackpot determination result, and when the jackpot determination result is a jackpot, there is a higher probability that the countdown effect execution determination will determine that “the countdown effect is present” It may be made to become. In this way, the expectation that can be given to the player when the countdown effect is performed can be further increased.

  Note that the above-described determination unit 310 can realize its function by, for example, the CPU 711 of the main control unit 701 executing a program stored in the ROM 712. In addition, the above-described effect execution unit 320 executes, for example, a program stored in the ROM 732 by the CPU 731 of the effect control unit 703a or a program stored in the ROM 742 by the CPU 741 of the image / sound control unit 703b. Thus, the function can be realized.

<About processing performed by the main control unit>
Next, processing performed by the gaming machine 100 will be described. First, processing performed by the main control unit 701 of the gaming machine 100 will be described. Each process of the main control unit 701 described below is performed by the CPU 711 of the main control unit 701 executing a program stored in the ROM 712.

<Main processing>
FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the main process. When the main control unit 701 is activated by supplying power to the gaming machine 100, the main control unit 701 starts executing the main process shown in FIG. In the main processing, first, the main control unit 701 waits for 1000 ms (step S1201), and sets access permission to the RAM 713 (step S1202).

  Subsequently, the main control unit 701 determines whether or not the RAM clear switch is ON (step S1203). If the RAM clear switch is ON (step S1203: Yes), the main control unit 701 clears the RAM (step S1204). Since the RAM clear is a known technique, its detailed description is omitted.

  Subsequently, the main control unit 701 performs initial setting of the peripheral part (step S1205), and proceeds to the process of step S1209. For example, the main control unit 701 transmits an initial setting command to the prize ball control unit 702 and the production control unit 703a. Then, upon receiving the initial setting command, the prize ball control unit 702 and the production control unit 703a perform predetermined initial settings.

  If the RAM clear switch is OFF (step S1203: No), the main control unit 701 determines whether the backup flag is ON (step S1206). The backup flag is a flag indicating that backup information is stored in the RAM 713. If the backup flag is OFF (step S1206: No), the main control unit 701 proceeds to the process of step S1204.

  If the backup flag is ON (step S1206: YES), the main control unit 701 determines whether the checksum is normal (step S1207). If the checksum is abnormal (step S1207: NO), the main control unit 701 proceeds to the process of step S1204.

  If the checksum is normal (step S1207: Yes), the main control unit 701 performs recovery processing (step S1208). For example, the main control unit 701 restores the previous power-off state based on the backup information stored in the RAM 713. For example, the backup information includes information indicating ON / OFF of the high probability flag and the auxiliary game flag. The main control unit 701 restores the ON / OFF state of these flags to the state at the time of the previous power shutdown by the restoration process.

  Subsequently, the main control unit 701 sets a CTC (timer counter) cycle (for example, 4 ms) (step S1209). For example, the main control unit 701 executes a timer interrupt process to be described later at the cycle set in step S1209. Then, the main control unit 701 performs a power-off monitoring process for monitoring the power-off (step S1210). In the power-off monitoring process, backup information is generated and stored when power-off is detected.

  Subsequently, the main control unit 701 performs variation pattern determination random number update processing to increment the count value of the variation pattern determination random number counter by “+1” (step S1211). Then, the main control unit 701 performs an interrupt prohibition setting for prohibiting the interrupt execution of the timer interrupt process (step S1212), and performs a random number update process (step S1213).

  In step S1213, the main control unit 701 counts up the count values of various random number counters managed by the main control unit 701 such as a winning determination random number counter, a symbol determination random number counter, and a variation pattern determination random number counter by “+1”. .

  In step S1213, only the count value of a specific random number counter may be incremented by “+1”. When the count value of each random number counter reaches a predetermined maximum value, the main control unit 701 returns the count value to a predetermined initial value or a random value, and performs random number update processing again from that value. Count up “+1”. Then, the main control unit 701 performs an interrupt permission setting for permitting interrupt execution of the timer interrupt process (step S1214), and returns to the process of step S1210.

<Timer interrupt processing>
FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of timer interrupt processing. For example, the main control unit 701 interrupts and executes the timer interrupt process with respect to the main process at the cycle set in step S1209. In the timer interrupt process, first, the main control unit 701 performs a random number update process (step S1301). In step S1301, the main control unit 701 increments the count values of the various random number counters by “+1” as in step S1213.

  Subsequently, the main control unit 701 performs a switch process (step S1302). The switch process includes a start-port switch process (described later) for detecting a game ball won at a start port (first start port 105, second start port 106), and a gate switch process for detecting a game ball that has passed through the gate 108. And a big prize opening switch process for detecting a game ball won in the big prize opening 109 and a normal prize opening switch process for detecting a game ball won in the normal prize opening 110. For example, in the big prize opening switch process, when the main control unit 701 detects a game ball won in the big prize opening 109, a main prize opening prize command indicating that the game ball has won in the big prize opening 109 is set in the RAM 713. To do. Note that the big winning opening winning command set in the RAM 713 is transmitted to the winning ball control unit 702 and the production control unit 703a when the next output process is executed.

  Subsequently, the main control unit 701 executes symbol processing (step S1303). The symbol processing includes special symbol processing (described later) related to special symbols and normal symbol processing related to normal symbols. For example, in the special symbol processing, the main control unit 701 performs jackpot determination and performs display control of the special symbol. Further, in the normal symbol processing, the main control unit 701 performs normal symbol determination and performs normal symbol display control.

  Subsequently, the main control unit 701 performs an electric accessory control process (step S1304). The electric accessory control process includes a special winning opening process (described later) for controlling the opening / closing operation of the special winning opening 109 and a normal electric accessory process for controlling the opening / closing operation of the normal electric combination 107. For example, in the big prize opening process, the main control unit 701 controls the opening / closing operation of the big prize opening 109 based on the jackpot determination result. In the ordinary electric accessory process, the main control unit 701 controls the opening / closing operation of the ordinary electric accessory 107 based on the determination result of the normal symbol determination.

  Subsequently, the main control unit 701 executes a prize ball control process (step S1305). In the prize ball control process, the main control unit 701 pays out a prize ball of the number of prize balls corresponding to the prize slot when the winning of a game ball is detected in any prize slot by the switch process. A prize ball command instructed to the prize ball control unit 702 is set in the RAM 713. The prize ball command set in the RAM 713 is transmitted to the prize ball control unit 702 when the next output process is executed. The prize ball command may also be transmitted to the production control unit 703a.

  Subsequently, the main control unit 701 performs an output process (step S1306) and ends the timer interrupt process. In the output process, the main control unit 701 outputs the commands set in the RAM 713 by the processes in steps S1301 to S1305 to the prize ball control unit 702 and the effect control unit 703. When the timer interrupt process ends, the main control unit 701 returns to the main process.

<Start-up switch processing>
FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the start port switch process. In the start port switch process, first, the main control unit 701 determines whether or not the first start port SW 714a is turned on (step S1401). If the first starter SW 714a is OFF (step S1401: No), the main control unit 701 proceeds to the process of step S1406.

  If the first starter SW 714a is ON (step S1401: Yes), the main control unit 701 determines whether or not the first hold number U1 is less than “4” (U1 <4) (step S1402). . If the first hold number U1 is “4” or more (step S1402: No), the main control unit 701 proceeds to the process of step S1406.

  If the first hold number U1 is less than “4” (step S1402: Yes), the main control unit 701 counts up the first hold number U1 by “+1” (U1 ← U1 + 1) (step S1403). Subsequently, the main control unit 701 refers to count values of various random number counters included in the main control unit 701, and acquires the count values at that time as determination information (step S1404). Then, the main control unit 701 performs a preliminary determination process (described later) using the acquired determination information (step S1405), and proceeds to the process of step S1406.

  Next, the main control unit 701 determines whether or not the second start port SW 714b is turned on (step S1406). If the second start port SW 714b is OFF (step S1406: No), the main control unit 701 ends the start port switch process. If the second starter SW 714b is turned on (step S1406: Yes), the main control unit 701 determines whether or not the second reserved number U2 is less than “4” (U2 <4) (step S1407). . If the second hold number U2 is “4” or more (step S1407: No), the main control unit 701 ends the start port switch process.

  If the second hold number U2 is less than “4” (step S1407: Yes), the main control unit 701 counts up the second hold number U2 by “+1” (U2 ← U2 + 1) (step S1408). Subsequently, the main control unit 701 refers to the count values of various random number counters included in the main control unit 701 and acquires the count values at that time as determination information (step S1409). Then, the main control unit 701 performs a pre-determination process (described later) using the acquired determination information (step S1410), and ends the start port switch process.

<Preliminary judgment processing>
FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the prior determination process. In the prior determination process, first, the main control unit 701 performs a winning determination process (step S1501). In step S1501, the main control unit 701 performs a winning determination using the winning determination random number of the determination information acquired in the immediately preceding step S1404 or step S1409 as the determination target winning determination random number. Thus, the main control unit 701 can obtain the jackpot determination result in advance before performing the jackpot determination by the jackpot determination process described later.

  Note that if the main control unit 701 determines that the jackpot symbol is determined to be a big hit in step S1501, the main control unit 701 may perform the jackpot symbol determination using the symbol determination random number of the determination information acquired in the immediately preceding step S1404 or step S1409 as the determination target symbol determination random number. Good. If the main control unit 701 determines that it is a small hit in step S1501, the main control unit 701 performs a small hit symbol determination using the symbol determination random number of the determination information acquired in the immediately preceding step S1404 or step S1409 as the determination target symbol determination random number. May be. In this way, the main control unit 701 can obtain the jackpot symbol and the jackpot symbol, that is, the jackpot type and the jackpot type as the prior determination result.

  Subsequently, the main control unit 701 performs a variation pattern determination process (step S1502). In step S1502, the main control unit 701 performs variation pattern determination using the variation pattern determination random number of the determination information acquired in the immediately preceding step S1404 or step S1409 as the variation pattern determination random number to be determined.

  Subsequently, the main control unit 701 stores the determination result of step S1501 and the determination result of step S1502 as the prior determination result of the determination target determination information (determination information acquired in the immediately preceding step S1404 or step S1409). (Step S1503). Then, the main control unit 701 sets a predetermination result command indicating the predetermination result in the RAM 713 (step S1504), and ends the predetermination process.

  Note that the main control unit 701 transmits the prior determination result command set in the RAM 713 in step S1504 to the production control unit 703a and the like in the next output process. As a result, the main control unit 701 can notify the production control unit 703a and the like of the acquisition of new determination information and the prior determination result of the determination information.

<Special symbol processing>
FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing an example of the special symbol process. In the special symbol process, first, the main control unit 701 determines whether or not the winning game flag is ON (step S1601). Here, the hit game flag includes a big hit game flag indicating that the big hit game is being played, and a small hit game flag indicating that the small hit game is being played. In step S1601, the main control unit 701 makes an affirmative determination if at least one of the big hit game flag and the small hit game flag is ON, and makes a negative determination if both the big hit game flag and the small hit game flag are OFF. .

  If the main control unit 701 makes an affirmative determination in step S1601 (step S1601: Yes), the special symbol process ends. Thereby, in the gaming machine 100, during the big hit game or the small hit game, the big hit determination is not performed, and the special symbol variation based on this is not performed.

  If the main control unit 701 makes a negative determination in step S1601 (step S1601: No), the main control unit 701 determines whether a special symbol variation display is being performed (step S1602). If the special symbol variation display is in progress (step S1602: Yes), the main control unit 701 proceeds to the process of step S1611. Thereby, in the gaming machine 100, the big hit determination is not performed during the variation display of the special symbol, and the new symbol variation of the special symbol based on this is not performed.

  The main control unit 701 determines whether or not the second reserved number U2 is “1” or more (step S1603) if the special symbol variation display is not in progress (step S1602: No). If the second reservation number U2 is “1” or more (step S1603: Yes), the main control unit 701 counts down the second reservation number U2 by “−1” (step S1604) and performs a jackpot determination process (step S1604). Step S1605). The jackpot determination process will be described later with reference to FIG. 17, and this jackpot determination result is derived by this jackpot determination process.

  If the second hold number U2 is less than “1” (step S1603: No), the main control unit 701 determines whether the first hold number U1 is “1” or more (step S1606). If the first hold number U1 is “1” or more (step S1606: Yes), the main control unit 701 counts down the first hold number U1 by “−1” (step S1607), and proceeds to step S1605. A jackpot determination process is performed. With the processing of steps S1603 to S1607, in the gaming machine 100, the game ball wins the first start opening 105 in the game winning match determination based on the determination information stored when the game ball wins the second start opening 106. By doing so, priority is given over the jackpot determination based on the stored determination information.

  Further, if the first hold number U1 is less than “1” (step S1606: No), the main control unit 701 ends the special symbol process. Thereby, in the gaming machine 100, when both the first holding number U1 and the second holding number U2 are “0”, the big hit determination is not performed, and the symbol variation of the special symbol based on this is not performed. It has become.

  Subsequently, the main control unit 701 performs a variation pattern determination process (step S1608). In step S1608, the main control unit 701 performs the variation pattern determination using the variation pattern determination random number of the determination information having the highest priority among the determination information stored in the main control unit 701 as the variation pattern determination random number to be determined.

  Subsequently, the main control unit 701 starts the variation display of the special symbol based on the jackpot determination result derived by the jackpot determination processing in step S1605 and the variation pattern derived by the variation pattern determination processing in step S1608 (step S1609). In step S1609, when the main control unit 701 performs a jackpot determination based on the determination information stored when the game ball wins the first starting port 105, the main control unit 701 displays the special information on the first special symbol display unit 201a. The design is variably displayed. On the other hand, when the main control unit 701 makes a jackpot determination based on the determination information stored when the game ball wins the second start opening 106, the special control of the second special symbol display unit 201b is variably displayed. To do.

  Subsequently, the main control unit 701 generates a change start command and sets it in the RAM 713 (step S1610). For example, the change start command includes information indicating a change start command, information indicating a jackpot determination result, information indicating a set change pattern, and the like. Further, the change start command may include information indicating a gaming state (for example, information indicating ON / OFF of a high probability flag described later and ON / OFF of an auxiliary game flag).

  Note that the change start command set in the RAM 713 in step S1610 is transmitted to the production control unit 703a or the like when the next output process is executed. The main control unit 701 can notify the effect control unit 703a of the jackpot determination result, the change pattern, the game state, and the like by transmitting a change start command to the effect control unit 703a.

  Subsequently, the main control unit 701 determines whether or not the variation time has elapsed (step S1611). In step S <b> 1611, the main control unit 701 determines whether or not the variation time determined by the variation pattern set immediately before the start of variation display has elapsed since the start of variation display of the special symbol. If the fluctuation time has not elapsed (step S1611: No), the main control unit 701 ends the special symbol process as it is. As a result, the special symbol is variably displayed on the gaming machine 100 with the variation time determined by the variation pattern.

  If the fluctuation time has elapsed (step S1611: Yes), the main control unit 701 stops and displays the special symbol during the fluctuation display so as to indicate the jackpot determination result (step S1612). The symbol that is stopped and displayed in step S1612 is set in the RAM 713 by the jackpot determination process.

  Subsequently, the main control unit 701 generates a change stop command and sets it in the RAM 713 (step S1613). For example, the change stop command includes information indicating a change stop command, information indicating a jackpot determination result, information indicating a change pattern determination result, and the like. Subsequently, the main control unit 701 performs a stop process (described later) (step S1614), and ends the special symbol process.

<Big hit judgment processing>
FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the jackpot determination process. In the jackpot determination process, first, the main control unit 701 performs a winning determination process (step S1701). In step S <b> 1701, the main control unit 701 performs a winning determination using the winning determination random number of the determination information having the highest priority among the determination information stored in the main control unit 701 as the determination target winning determination random number.

  Subsequently, the main control unit 701 determines whether or not the determination result of the winning determination in step S1701 is a big win (step S1702), and if it is a big win (step S1702: Yes), performs a big hit symbol determination process (step S1702). S1703). In step S1703, the main control unit 701 performs a jackpot symbol determination using the symbol determination random number of the determination information with the highest priority among the determination information stored in the main control unit 701 as the determination target symbol determination random number. Then, the main control unit 701 sets the jackpot symbol of the determination result in step S1703 in the RAM 713 (step S1704), and ends the jackpot determination process.

  On the other hand, the main control unit 701 determines whether it is a small win if the determination result of the winning determination in step S1701 is not a big hit (step S1702: No) (step S1705). If it is a small hit (step S1705: Yes), a small hit symbol determination process is performed (step S1706). In step S1706, the main control unit 701 performs a small hitting symbol determination using the symbol determination random number of the determination information with the highest priority among the determination information stored in the main control unit 701 as the determination target symbol determination random number. Then, the main control unit 701 sets the small hit symbol of the determination result in step S1706 in the RAM 713 (step S1707), and ends the big hit determination process.

  Further, the main control unit 701 sets the lost symbol in the RAM 713 (step S1708), and ends the jackpot determination process if the determination result of the winning determination in step S1701 is not a small hit (step S1705: No).

<Processing during stop>
FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the stop process. In the stop process, first, the main control unit 701 determines whether or not an auxiliary game flag indicating ON is in an auxiliary game state (step S1801). If the auxiliary game flag is OFF (step S1801: No), the main control unit 701 proceeds to the process of step S1805.

  If the auxiliary game flag is ON (step S1801: Yes), the main control unit 701 counts down the count value X of the auxiliary game counter by “−1” (step S1802), and whether the count value X is “0”. It is determined whether or not (step S1803). If the count value X is not “0” (step S1803: No), the main control unit 701 proceeds to the process of step S1805. If the count value X is “0” (step S1803: Yes), the main control unit 701 sets the auxiliary game flag to OFF (step S1804), and proceeds to the process of step S1805.

  Subsequently, the main control unit 701 determines whether or not the high probability flag is ON (step S1805). If the high probability flag is OFF (step S1805: NO), the main control unit 701 proceeds to the process of step S1809.

  If the high probability flag is ON (step S1805: YES), the main control unit 701 counts down the count value Y of the high probability counter by “−1” (step S1806), and whether the count value Y is “0”. It is determined whether or not (step S1807). If the count value Y is not “0” (step S1807: NO), the main control unit 701 proceeds to the process of step S1809. If the count value Y is “0” (step S1807: Yes), the main control unit 701 sets the high probability flag to OFF (step S1808), and proceeds to the processing of step S1809.

  Subsequently, the main control unit 701 determines whether or not the stopped and displayed symbol is a jackpot symbol (step S1809). If it is a jackpot symbol (step S1809: Yes), the main control unit 701 sets a jackpot game flag to ON (step S1810).

  Subsequently, the main control unit 701 resets the count value X of the auxiliary game counter and the count value Y of the high probability counter to “0” (step S1811), and sets the auxiliary game flag and high probability flag to OFF (step S1811). S1812). Subsequently, the main control unit 701 starts a predetermined opening in the jackpot game (step S1813), and sets an opening command in the RAM 713 (step S1814).

  Then, the main control unit 701 starts lighting any one of the lamps of the round number display unit 204 (step S1815), and ends the stop process. In step S1815, as described above, the main control unit 701 turns on the “16” lamp when playing a 16-round jackpot game, and turns on the “8” lamp when playing an 8-round jackpot game. Turn on the lamp and turn on the “2” lamp to play a big hit game for two rounds.

  On the other hand, if the symbol that is stopped and displayed is not a jackpot symbol (step S1809: No), the main control unit 701 determines whether or not the symbol that is stopped and displayed is a jackpot symbol (step S1816). If it is not a small winning symbol (step S1816: No), the main control unit 701 ends the stopped process. If it is a small hit symbol (step S1816: Yes), the main control unit 701 sets the small hit game flag to ON (step S1817), and proceeds to the processing of step S1813. The main control unit 701 does not turn on the round number display unit 204 in step S1815 as an exception when the small hit game flag is set to ON.

(Large winnings processing)
FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing the processing contents of the special prize opening process. In the big prize opening process, first, the main control unit 701 determines whether or not the winning game flag (at least one of the big winning game flag or the small winning game flag) is set to ON (step S1901). If the winning game flag is OFF (step S1901: No), the special winning a prize mouth process is finished as it is.

  If the winning game flag is ON (step S1901: Yes), it is determined whether the opening is being performed (step S1902). If it is during opening (step S1902: Yes), an opening process (described later) is performed (step S1903), and the process proceeds to step S1904. If it is not during opening (step S1902: No), it will transfer to step S1904.

  Subsequently, the main control unit 701 determines whether or not the special winning opening 109 is being opened (during round) (step S1904). If the special winning opening 109 is being opened (step S1904: Yes), a process during opening described later is performed (step S1905), and the process proceeds to step S1906. If the special winning opening 109 is not being opened (step S1904: NO), the process proceeds to step S1906.

  Subsequently, the main control unit 701 determines whether it is during the interval (step S1906). If it is during the interval (step S1906: Yes), an interval process (described later) is performed (step S1907), and the process proceeds to step S1908. If not in the interval (step S1906: NO), the process proceeds to step S1908.

  Subsequently, the main control unit 701 determines whether ending is in progress (step S1908). If it is during ending (step S1908: Yes), an ending process described later is performed (step S1909), and the big prize opening process is terminated. If it is not in the ending (step S1908: No), the special winning opening process is terminated.

(Opening process)
FIG. 20A is a flowchart of the processing contents of the opening process. In the opening process, the main control unit 701 first determines whether or not a predetermined opening time has elapsed from the start of opening (at the start of jackpot game) (step S2011). If the opening time has not elapsed (step S2011: No), the opening process is terminated as it is.

  If the opening time has elapsed (step S2011: Yes), the main control unit 701 ends the opening (step S2012), sets the count value R of the round number counter to “1” (step S2013), and rounds. A start command is set in the RAM 713 (step S2014). For example, the round start command includes information indicating the count value R of the round number counter (that is, information indicating the number of rounds). The main control unit 701 transmits this round start command to the production control unit 703a when the next output process is executed. Subsequently, the main control unit 701 starts to open the first prize winning opening 109 (step S2015), and ends the opening process.

  For example, in the case of a jackpot game with a 16R probability variation jackpot, a 16R regular jackpot, and an 8R regular jackpot, the first round jackpot 109 is opened once with a 30-second opening time. In the case of a big hit game with 2R latent big hit, the game is released once with a 1 second open time. In the case of a small hit game, the game is opened twice with an opening time of 1 second.

(Processing during opening)
FIG. 20B is a flowchart illustrating the processing contents of the releasing process. In the opening process, the main control unit 701 first determines whether a predetermined opening time (for example, 30 seconds) has elapsed since the opening of the special winning opening 109 in the current round (step S2021). If the opening time has not elapsed (step S2021: No), the main control unit 701 has won a predetermined number (for example, 10) of game balls in the big winning opening 109 during the opening of the big winning opening 109 this time. Is determined (step S2022). If there is no predetermined number of winnings (step S2022: No), the releasing process is terminated.

  When the opening time has elapsed (step S2021: Yes) or when a predetermined number of winnings have been made (step S2022: Yes), the main control unit 701 closes the big winning opening 109 (step S2023). Then, it is determined whether the count value R of the round number counter matches Rmax (step S2024). Here, Rmax is “16” in the case of a jackpot game with 16R probability variable jackpot and 16R normal jackpot, and “8” in the case of a jackpot game with 8R normal jackpot. In the case of a big hit game with 2R latent big hit, it is “2”, and in the case of a small hit game, it is “1”.

  If the count value R of the round number counter does not coincide with Rmax (step S2024: No), the main control unit 701 starts an interval (step S2025) and ends the releasing process. If the count value R of the round number counter matches Rmax (step S2024: Yes), the main control unit 701 determines that the final round has ended, and starts ending (step S2026).

  When the ending is started, the main control unit 701 sets an ending command in the RAM 713 (step S2027) and ends the releasing process. For example, this ending command includes information indicating the type of jackpot of this time. The main control unit 701 transmits this ending command to the production control unit 703a when the next output process is executed.

(Interval processing)
FIG. 20C is a flowchart illustrating the processing contents of the interval processing. In the interval process, the main control unit 701 first determines whether a predetermined interval time has elapsed since the start of the interval (step S2031). If the interval time has not elapsed (step S2031: No), the interval process is terminated as it is.

  If the interval time has elapsed (step S2031: Yes), the main control unit 701 ends the interval (step S2032), and sets a value obtained by adding “+1” to the count value R of the round number counter as a new count value R. (Step S2033). Then, a round start command is set in the RAM 713 (step S2034). Subsequently, the main control unit 701 starts opening the special winning opening 109 by a new round (step S2035), and ends the interval process.

(Ending process)
FIG. 20-4 is a flowchart illustrating the processing contents of the ending process. In the ending process, the main control unit 701 first determines whether a predetermined ending time has elapsed since the start of ending (step S2041). If the ending time has not elapsed (step S2041: No), the ending process is terminated.

  If the ending time has elapsed (step S2041: Yes), the main control unit 701 ends the ending (step S2042), and sets an ending end command indicating that the ending has ended in the RAM 713 (step S2043). . Then, the main control unit 701 resets the count value R of the round number counter to “0” (step S2044). Then, a game state setting process (described later) for setting the game state after the current jackpot game is performed (step S2045). Then, the main control unit 701 turns off the lamp of the round number display unit 204 that was turned on in step S1905 (step S2046), sets the winning game flag to OFF (step S2047), and ends the ending process.

<Game state setting process>
FIG. 21 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the game state setting process. In the game state setting process, first, the main control unit 701 determines whether or not the current jackpot is a probability variation jackpot (16R probability variation jackpot) (step S2101).

  If it is a probable big hit (step S2101: Yes), the main control unit 701 sets the auxiliary game flag to ON (step S2102), and sets “10000” as the count value X of the auxiliary game counter (step S2103). Thereby, in this case, the auxiliary gaming state is substantially continued until the next jackpot. Subsequently, the main control unit 701 sets the high probability flag to ON (step S2104), sets “10000” to the count value Y of the high probability counter (step S2105), and ends the gaming state setting process. Thereby, in this case, the high-probability gaming state is substantially continued until the next jackpot.

  On the other hand, if it is not a probable big hit (step S2101: No), the main control unit 701 determines whether the current big hit is a normal big hit (16R normal big hit or 8R normal big hit) (step S2106). If it is a normal big hit (step S2106: Yes), the main control unit 701 sets the auxiliary game flag to ON (step S2107), sets the count value X of the auxiliary game counter to “100” (step S2108), The game state setting process ends. Thus, in this case, after the current jackpot game, the auxiliary gaming state is continued until 100 symbol changes are made. In this case, since the gaming state setting process is terminated without setting the high probability flag to ON, the game is controlled in the low probability gaming state after the current jackpot game.

  If it is not a normal big hit (step S2106: No), the main control unit 701 determines that the current big hit is a latent big hit (2R latent big hit) and sets the high probability flag to ON (step In step S2109, “10000” is set to the count value Y of the high probability counter (step S2110), and the gaming state setting process ends. Thereby, also in this case, the high-probability gaming state is substantially continued until the next jackpot.

  Note that the main control unit 701 sets the probability change game state after the current potential big hit if it is in the probability changed gaming state or the latent probability gaming state before the current big hit even if the current big hit is the potential big hit. Also good. For example, in this case, the main control unit 701 may set the auxiliary game flag to ON and set the count value X of the auxiliary game counter to “10000” after step S2110.

<About the processing performed by the Director of Production>
Next, processing performed by the production supervision unit 703a of the gaming machine 100 will be described. Each process of the production control unit 703a described below is performed by the CPU 731 of the production control unit 703a executing a program stored in the ROM 732.

<Production timer interrupt processing>
FIG. 22 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the effect timer interrupt process. For example, when the production control unit 703a is activated by supplying power to the gaming machine 100, the production control unit 703a starts executing the production main process (not shown). This effect main process is continuously executed until the power of the gaming machine 100 is cut off. The effect supervising unit 703a interrupts and executes the effect timer interrupt process shown in FIG. 22 at a predetermined period (for example, every 4 ms) with respect to the effect main process.

  In the effect timer interruption process, first, the effect control unit 703a performs a command reception process (described later) (step S2201). Subsequently, the production control unit 703a performs an operation reception process (not shown) (step S2202). In the operation accepting process, the effect supervising unit 703a determines whether or not the effect button 118, the cross key 119, and the operation lever 120 are operated. If it is determined that the operation is performed, a command corresponding to this operation (for example, the effect button 118 is displayed). If it is determined that the button has been pressed, an effect button command is set in the RAM 733. If it is determined that the operation lever 120 has been operated, an operation lever command) is set in the RAM 733.

  Subsequently, the production control unit 703a performs command transmission processing (step S2203). In the command transmission process, a command set in the RAM 733 by the command reception process or the operation reception process is transmitted to the image / sound control unit 703b or the lamp control unit 703c. The image / sound control unit 703b receives the command transmitted by the command transmission process, and performs display control of the image display unit 104 based on the command. In addition, the lamp control unit 703c receives a command transmitted by the command transmission process, and performs lighting control of the effect light unit 115 or driving control of the movable accessory 130 based on the command.

  Subsequently, the production control unit 703a performs a production control unit random number update process (step S2204), and ends the production timer interrupt process. In the production control unit random number update process, the production control unit 703a increments the count values of various random number counters managed by the production control unit 703a such as a production pattern determination random number counter by “+1”. In addition, when the count value of various random number counters reaches a predetermined maximum value, the production control unit 703a returns the count value that has reached the maximum value to a predetermined initial value (may be a random value), Every time the production control section random number update process is performed from the value, the count is incremented by “+1” again.

<Command reception processing>
FIG. 23 is a flowchart illustrating an example of command reception processing. In the command reception process, first, the production supervision unit 703a determines whether or not a prior determination result command has been received (step S2301). If the pre-judgment result command has not been received (step S2301: No), the production control unit 703a proceeds to the process of step S2304.

  If the pre-determination result command is received (step S2301: Yes), the production control unit 703a stores the pre-determination result indicated by the pre-determination result command in the pre-determination result storage area provided in the RAM 733. Storage area update processing is performed (step S2302).

  Then, the production control unit 703a sets the prior determination result command received in step S2301 in the RAM 733 (step S2303). The prior determination result command set in step S2303 is transmitted to the image / audio control unit 703b or the like when the next command transmission process is executed. The production control unit 703a transmits a prior determination result command to the image / sound control unit 703b, thereby notifying the image / sound control unit 703b that new determination information has been acquired and the determination result of the determination information. can do.

  Subsequently, the production control unit 703a determines whether or not a change start command has been received (step S2304). If the production control unit 703a has not received the change start command (step S2304: NO), the production control unit 703a proceeds to the process of step S2306. If the production control unit 703a receives the change start command (step S2304: YES), the production control unit 703a performs the production start process (described later) (step S2305).

  Subsequently, the production control unit 703a determines whether a change stop command has been received (step S2306). If the production control unit 703a has not received the change stop command (step S2306: NO), the production control unit 703a proceeds to the process of step S2308. If the production supervision unit 703a receives the change stop command (step S2306: YES), the production supervision unit 703a performs the production end process (step S2307). For example, in the effect end process, the effect control unit 703 a sets an effect end command in the RAM 733. This effect end command is transmitted to the image / sound controller 703b or the like when the next command transmission process is executed. For example, when the image / sound control unit 703b receives an effect end command from the effect control unit 703a, the image / sound control unit 703b stops and displays the effect symbol that has been variably displayed (or has been temporarily stopped) so as to indicate the jackpot determination result. .

  Subsequently, the production control unit 703a determines whether or not a winning game command has been received (step S2308). Here, the winning game command is a command transmitted from the main control unit 701 in the case of a big hit game or a small hit game. For example, the winning game command includes the above-mentioned opening command, round start command, round end command, ending command, ending end command, and the like.

  If the winning game command is not received (step S2308: No), the effect supervision unit 703a ends the command reception process. If the winning game command is received (step S2308: Yes), the effect supervising unit 703a performs a winning effect process (step S2309) and ends the command receiving process.

  For example, in the winning effect process, the effect supervising unit 703 a sets an opening effect start command for starting the opening effect in the RAM 733 when the opening command is received. In addition, when receiving the round start command, the effect supervising unit 703 a sets a round effect start command for starting a round effect corresponding to the round to be started in the RAM 733. Then, when the ending effect is received, the effect supervising unit 703 a sets an ending effect start command for starting the ending effect in the RAM 733.

<Direction start processing>
FIG. 24 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the effect start process. In the effect start process, the effect control unit 703a first analyzes the change start command received in step S2304, and acquires the change pattern indicated by the change start command (step S2401). Subsequently, the production control unit 703a determines whether or not the variation pattern acquired in step S2401 is the variation pattern Hp13 (step S2402).

  If it is not the variation pattern Hp13 (step S2402: No), the effect supervision unit 703a performs an effect pattern determination that determines the effect pattern associated with the variation pattern acquired in step S2401 (step S2403), and the determination result is as follows. The derived effect pattern is set in the RAM 733 (step S2404). On the other hand, if it is the variation pattern Hp13 (step S2402: Yes), the production supervision unit 703a performs a notice production execution determination (step S2405) and sets the production pattern Ep13a or the production pattern Ep13b or the production pattern Ep13c. Is determined, and the process proceeds to step S2404.

  Subsequently, the effect supervising unit 703a performs a stop effect design determining process for determining the contents of the effect symbols to be stopped and displayed (combination of effect symbols) (step S2406). For example, in the stop effect design determination process, the effect control unit 703a determines the content of the effect symbol to be stopped and displayed based on the effect pattern set in the RAM 733 in step S2404. For example, if the effect pattern set in the RAM 733 in step S2404 is a normal loss effect, the effect pattern is determined to be scattered, if it is a reach loss effect, it is determined to be reach loss, and if it is a big win, it is determined to be a close eye.

  Furthermore, in the stop effect design determination process, the effect supervision unit 703a may change the big hit that is easily determined according to the type of the big win. For example, in this case, in the case of 16R probability variation jackpot, it is possible to determine in any stop from “1” to “9” in the stop effect design determination process, but it is determined most in “7” Make it easier. On the other hand, in the case of 16R normal jackpot or 8R normal jackpot, it can be determined in any stop from “1” to “9” in the stop effect design determination process. Make it hard to be determined. In this way, the “7” slotted eye has the highest expectation of 16R probability variation jackpot, and when the “7” slotted eye is stopped, “16R probability variation jackpot probability is high”. A great expectation can be given to the player.

  Further, for example, in the stop effect design determination process, it is possible to determine any one of “1” to “9” in the case of 16R probability variation big hit, and “7” in the case of 16R normal big hit or 8R normal big hit. It is also possible to be able to be determined by a scale other than "" (cannot be determined by a scale of "7"). In this way, it is possible to give a great joy to the player that “16R probability change jackpot is confirmed” when the “7” double eye is stopped and displayed. In the stop effect design determination process, in the case of 2R latent big hit, it is decided to be a so-called “chance eye (for example, a specific combination such as“ 1, 2, 3 ”) and a big hit other than the 2R latent big hit Different jackpots may be stopped and displayed.

  Subsequently, the effect supervising unit 703a sets an effect start command in the RAM 733 (step S2407), and ends the effect start process. The effect start command includes information indicating the combination of the effect pattern set in step S2404 and the effect symbol determined in step S2406.

  The effect start command set in the RAM 733 in step S2407 is transmitted to the image / audio control unit 703b at the next execution of the command transmission process. The effect supervising unit 703a can notify the image / sound control unit 703b of the effect pattern, the preview effect pattern, and the effect design to be stopped by transmitting the effect start command to the image / sound control unit 703b.

<Processing performed by the image / sound controller>
Next, processing performed by the image / sound control unit 703b of the gaming machine 100 will be described. Each processing of the image / sound control unit 703b described below is performed by the CPU 741 of the image / sound control unit 703b executing a program stored in the ROM 742.

<Image / audio timer interrupt processing>
FIG. 25 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the image / sound timer interrupt process. For example, when the image / sound control unit 703b is activated when power is supplied to the gaming machine 100, the image / sound control unit 703b starts executing an image / sound main process (not shown). This image / sound main process is continuously executed until the power of the gaming machine 100 is shut off. The image / sound control unit 703b interrupts and executes the image / sound timer interrupt process shown in FIG. 25 at a predetermined cycle (for example, every 4 ms) with respect to the image / sound main process.

  In the image / audio timer interruption process, first, the image / audio control unit 703b performs an effect start control process (step S2501), and performs an effect control process (step S2502). Subsequently, the image / sound control unit 703b performs an effect end control process (step S2503), performs an image / sound control unit random number update process (step S2504), and ends the image / sound timer interrupt process.

  In the image / sound control unit random number update process, the image / sound control unit 703b counts various random number counters managed by the image / sound control unit 703b, such as a button notice effect determination random number, a freeze effect determination random number, and a countdown effect determination random number. Count up the value by “+1”. When the count values of various random number counters reach a predetermined maximum value, the image / audio control unit 703b returns the count value that has reached the maximum value to a predetermined initial value (which may be a random value). Each time the image / audio control unit random number update process is performed, the value is incremented by “+1” again.

<Freeze production start processing>
FIG. 26 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a freeze effect start process. This freeze effect start process is one process included in the effect start control process of step S2501. In the freeze effect start process, the image / sound control unit 703b first determines whether or not a prior determination result command has been received (step S2601). If the image / sound control unit 703b has not received the prior determination result command (step S2601: No), the freeze effect start process ends. If the image / sound control unit 703b has received the prior determination result command (step S2601: Yes), the image / audio control unit 703b stores the prior determination result indicated by the prior determination result command in the prior determination result storage area provided in the RAM 743. A determination result storage area update process is performed (step S2602).

  Subsequently, the image / sound control unit 703b determines whether or not the hold number U is “1” or more (step S2603). If the hold count U is less than “1” (step S2603: No), the image / sound control unit 703b ends the freeze effect start process.

  If the hold count U is “1” or more (step S2603: Yes), the image / sound control unit 703b determines whether the variation pattern included in the prior determination result command received in step S2601 is a specific variation pattern. Is determined (step S2604). For example, in step S2604, the image / sound control unit 703b selects one of the variation pattern Hp13, the variation pattern Hp33a, and the variation pattern Hp33b, that is, one of the variation patterns associated with the reach effect effect pattern in the SPSP reach mode. If so, an affirmative determination is made, and if it is any other variation pattern, a negative determination is made. If the image / sound control unit 703b makes a negative determination in step S2604 (step S2604: No), the freeze effect start process ends.

  If an affirmative determination is made in step S2604 (step S2604: Yes), the image / sound control unit 703b determines whether or not the freeze effect flag indicating that the freeze effect is being performed is ON (step S2605). If the freeze effect flag is ON (step S2605: Yes), the image / sound control unit 703b ends the freeze effect start process.

  If the freeze effect flag is OFF (step S2605: No), the image / sound control unit 703b performs a freeze effect execution determination (step S2606), and determines whether the determination result is “with freeze effect”. (Step S2607). If it is “no freeze effect” (step S2607: NO), the image / sound control unit 703b ends the freeze effect start process. If the freeze effect execution determination result is “with freeze effect” (step S2607: Yes), the image / sound control unit 703b sets the freeze effect flag to ON (step S2608).

  For example, in step S2608, the image / sound control unit 703b sets the freeze effect flag in association with the prior determination result indicated by the prior determination result command received in step S2601 in the prior determination result storage area of the RAM 743. As a result, the image / sound control unit 703b can identify the prior determination result that triggered the freeze effect. Then, the image / sound control unit 703b starts a freeze effect (step S2609), and ends the freeze effect start process.

<Variation production start processing>
FIG. 27 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a variation effect start process. This variation effect start process is one process included in the effect start control process of step S2501. In the variation effect start process, the image / audio control unit 703b first determines whether or not an effect start command is received from the effect control unit 703a (step S2701). If the image / sound control unit 703b has not received the effect start command (step S2701: No), the variation effect start process ends.

  If the image / sound control unit 703b has received an effect start command (step S2701: Yes), the effect pattern included in the effect start command received in step S2701 is stored (step S2702), and this effect pattern The production according to is started (step S2703). However, as described above, if the freeze effect is performed at this time (if the freeze effect flag is ON), the background image stopped by the freeze effect is an image of the effect according to the effect pattern (for example, reach effect) In this case, the effect image according to the effect pattern is invisible to the player. Then, the image / sound controller 703b starts measuring the elapsed time from the start of the effect (step S2704).

  Subsequently, the image / sound control unit 703b determines whether or not the freeze effect flag is ON (step S2705). If the freeze effect flag is OFF (step S2705: No), the image / sound control unit 703b ends the variation effect start process.

  If the freeze effect flag is ON (step S2705: Yes), the image / sound control unit 703b determines whether or not the symbol variation is based on the determination information that has triggered the freeze effect (step S2706). The image / sound control unit 703b ends the variation effect start processing if it is not the symbol variation based on the determination information that triggered the freeze effect (step S2706: No).

  The image / sound control unit 703b determines whether or not an effect with a specific effect pattern is being performed (step S2707) if the symbol variation is based on the determination information that triggered the freeze effect (step S2706: Yes). . For example, in step S2707, the image / sound control unit 703b makes an affirmative determination if the effect is an effect pattern that defines an effect mode that includes one of the effect pattern Ep13c and the effect pattern Ep33b, that is, the lever notice effect. Otherwise, a negative determination is made. If the image / sound control unit 703b makes a negative determination in step S2707 (step S2707: No), the variation effect start process ends.

  If an affirmative determination is made in step S2707 (step S2707: Yes), the image / sound control unit 703b performs a countdown effect execution determination (step S2708), and determines whether or not the determination result is “there is a countdown effect”. (Step S2709). If the countdown effect execution determination result is “There is a countdown effect” (step S2709: YES), the image / sound control unit 703b starts the countdown effect (step S2710) and ends the variation effect start process. If the countdown effect execution determination result is “no countdown effect” (step S2709: No), the image / sound control unit 703b ends the variation effect start process.

<Processing during freeze production>
FIG. 28 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a freeze effect in-process. This freeze-in-progress process is a process included in the in-effect control process in step S2502. In the freeze effect processing, the image / sound control unit 703b first determines whether or not the freeze effect flag is ON (step S2801). If the freeze effect flag is OFF (step S2801: No), the image / sound control unit 703b ends the freeze effect processing.

  If the freeze effect flag is ON (step S2801: YES), the image / sound control unit 703b determines whether the symbol is changing due to the determination information that has triggered the freeze effect (step S2802). If the image / sound control unit 703b is not changing the symbol based on the determination information that triggered the freeze effect (step S2802: No), the image / sound control unit 703b ends the freeze effect processing.

  If the image / sound control unit 703b is changing the symbol based on the determination information that has triggered the freeze effect (step S2802: YES), the image / sound control unit 703b creates an effect mode including the lever notice effect based on the effect pattern stored in step S2702. It is determined whether or not an effect with the determined effect pattern is being performed (step S2803). For example, in step S2803, the image / sound controller 703b makes an affirmative determination if the effect pattern Ep13c or the effect pattern Ep33b is one, and makes a negative determination otherwise. If the image / sound control unit 703b makes a negative determination in step S2803 (step S2803: No), the freeze effect in-process is terminated.

  If the affirmative determination is made in step S2803 (step S2803: Yes), the image / sound control unit 703b determines whether or not the elapsed time from the start of the production that started the measurement in step S2704 has reached T4, that is, the start of the lever warning effect. It is determined whether or not it is time (step S2804). If it is the start time of the lever announcement effect (step S2804: Yes), the image / sound control unit 703b ends the freeze effect (step S2805), sets the freeze effect flag to OFF (step S2806), and freeze effect. End the middle process. That is, in this case, a long freeze effect is performed.

  On the other hand, if the image / sound control unit 703b makes a negative determination in step S2804 (step S2804: No), whether or not the elapsed time from the start of the production that started the measurement in step S2704 has become T2, that is, the SP reach mode It is determined whether or not it is the start time of reach production in step S2807. If it is the start time of the reach effect in the SP reach mode (step S2807: Yes), the image / audio control unit 703b proceeds to the process of step S2805. That is, in this case, a short freeze effect is performed. Also, the image / sound control unit 703b ends the process during the freeze effect if it is not the start time of the reach effect in the SP reach mode (step S2807: No).

<Button notice processing>
FIG. 29 is a flowchart illustrating an example of button notice effect processing. This button notice effect process is a process included in the effect control process in step S2502. In the button notice effect process, the image / sound control unit 703b first determines whether or not the button notice effect flag indicating that the button notice effect is being performed is ON (step S2901). If the button notice effect flag is ON (step S2901: YES), the image / sound control unit 703b proceeds to the process of step S2905.

  If the button notice effect flag is OFF (step S2901: No), the image / sound controller 703b determines whether it is the start time of the button notice effect (step S2902). For example, in step S2902, the image / sound control unit 703b determines that the production pattern stored in step S2702 is either the production pattern Ep13b or the production pattern Ep33a, and the production from the start of production in step S2704. An affirmative determination is made when the elapsed time is T4, and a negative determination is made otherwise. If it is not the start time of the button notice effect (step S2902: No), the image / sound control unit 703b ends the button notice effect process.

  If it is the start time of the button notice effect (step S2902: Yes), the image / sound control unit 703b starts the button notice effect (step S2903). Thereby, for example, the button image 401 is displayed on the image display unit 104. Then, the image / sound control unit 703b sets the button notice effect flag indicating that the button notice effect is being performed to ON (step S2904).

  Subsequently, the image / sound control unit 703b determines whether or not a predetermined operation valid period (for example, 3 seconds) has elapsed since the start of the button notice effect (step S2905). If the operation valid period has elapsed (step S2905: YES), the image / sound control unit 703b proceeds to the process of step S2907.

  If the operation valid period has not elapsed (step S2905: No), the image / sound control unit 703b determines whether or not an effect button command has been received from the effect control unit 703a (step S2906). If the image / sound control unit 703b has not received the effect button command (step S2906: NO), the button notice effect process ends.

  If the image / sound control unit 703b has received the effect button command (step S2906: YES), the image / sound control unit 703b performs button notice effect result determination (step S2907), and determines whether or not the determination result is cut-in. Determination is made (step S2908). If “with cut-in” (step S2908: YES), the image / sound control unit 703b displays the cut-in image 402 on the image display unit 104 (step S2909), and sets the button notice effect flag to OFF. (Step S2910), the button notice effect processing ends. If the button notice effect result determination result is “no cut-in” (step S2908: No), the image / sound control unit 703b proceeds to the process of step S2910.

<Lever notice processing>
FIG. 30 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the lever notice effect process. This lever notice effect process is one process included in the effect control process in step S2502. In the lever notice effect process, the image / sound control unit 703b first determines whether or not a lever notice effect flag indicating that the lever notice effect is being performed is ON (step S3001). If the lever notice effect flag is ON (step S3001: Yes), the image / audio control unit 703b proceeds to the process of step S3005.

  If the lever notice effect flag is OFF (step S3001: No), the image / sound control unit 703b determines whether it is the start time of the lever notice effect (step S3002). For example, in step S3002, the image / sound control unit 703b determines that the effect pattern stored in step S2702 is either the effect pattern Ep13c or the effect pattern Ep33b, and the start of the effect that started measurement in step S2704. An affirmative determination is made when the elapsed time is T4, and a negative determination is made otherwise. If it is not the start time of the lever notice effect (step S3002: No), the image / sound control unit 703b ends the lever notice effect process.

  If it is the start time of the lever notice effect (step S3002: Yes), the image / sound control unit 703b starts the lever notice effect (step S3003). Thereby, for example, the lever image 403 is displayed on the image display unit 104. Then, the image / sound controller 703b sets a lever notice effect flag indicating that the lever notice effect is being performed to ON (step S3004).

  Subsequently, the image / audio control unit 703b determines whether or not a predetermined operation valid period (for example, 3 seconds) has elapsed since the start of the lever notice effect (step S3005). If the operation valid period has elapsed (step S3005: Yes), the image / sound control unit 703b proceeds to the process of step S3007.

  If the operation valid period has not elapsed (step S3005: No), the image / sound control unit 703b determines whether an operation lever command has been received from the production control unit 703a (step S3006). If the image / sound control unit 703b has not received an operation lever command (step S3006: No), the lever notice effect processing ends.

  If the operation lever command has been received (step S3006: Yes), the image / sound control unit 703b determines whether the jackpot determination result is a jackpot (step S3007). For example, the image / sound control unit 703b makes an affirmative determination when the effect pattern stored in step S2702 is the effect pattern Ep33b, and makes a negative determination otherwise.

  If the jackpot determination result is a jackpot (step S3007: Yes), the image / sound controller 703b transmits a movable accessory driving start command to the lamp controller 703c via the effect supervision section 703a (step S3008). When the lamp control unit 703 c receives the movable combination driving start command, the lamp control unit 703 c drives the movable combination 130 to advance to the front of the image display unit 104. Subsequently, the image / sound controller 703b sets the lever notice effect flag to OFF (step S3009), and ends the lever notice effect process. If the jackpot determination result is not a jackpot (step S3007: No), the image / sound controller 703b proceeds to the process of step S3009.

  As described above, the gaming machine 100 can perform the reach effect, the button notice effect, and the lever notice effect in a plurality of effect modes including the SPSP reach mode. And in the gaming machine 100, when the reach effect of the SPSP reach effect mode is not performed (for example, immediately after the freeze effect and the countdown effect) than when the reach effect of the SPSP reach effect mode is performed, The lever notice effect was performed with high probability. Thereby, even if the gaming machine 100 does not perform the reach effect of the SPSP reach effect mode, the game machine 100 can give the player a sense of expectation such as “the lever notice effect may be performed”. Can be increased.

  For example, as described above, the gaming machine 100 may perform the lever notice effect or the button notice effect from the reach effect of the SPSP reach mode. On the other hand, the gaming machine 100 always performs the lever notice effect from the freeze effect and the countdown effect. Therefore, in the gaming machine 100, the probability that the lever notice effect is performed from the freeze effect and the countdown effect is higher than the probability that the lever notice effect is performed from the reach effect in the SPSP reach mode. Therefore, the gaming machine 100 can give the player a sense of expectation that “the lever notice effect is performed (that is, the high probability of jackpot expectation)” by performing the freeze effect and the countdown effect, and the SPSP reach mode Even when no reach production is performed, the player's expectation can be enhanced.

  Further, in the gaming machine 100, when the lever notice effect is performed from the freeze effect, it is possible to suggest to the player that the lever notice effect is performed by performing the countdown effect before the lever notice effect. Thereby, the gaming machine 100 can give the player a sense of security that “the lever notice effect is performed” and a waiting time that “become the lever notice effect early” before the lever notice effect. On the other hand, when the gaming machine 100 performs the lever notice effect from the reach effect of the SPSP mode, the gaming machine 100 does not perform the countdown effect and does not suggest the player to perform the lever notice effect. Thereby, the gaming machine 100 can give the player a surprise that “the lever notice effect has been performed” when the lever notice effect is performed from the reach effect of the SPSP reach mode.

  Note that in the embodiment described above, the gaming machine 100 has a higher probability of performing the lever notice later when performing the freeze effect and the countdown effect than when performing the reach effect of the SPSP reach effect mode. Although the production is performed, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the gaming machine 100 is likely to perform the lever announcement effect afterwards with a higher probability when performing the reach effect of the SP reach effect mode or the normal reach mode than when performing the reach effect of the SPSP reach effect mode. It may be. In other words, the gaming machine 100 is more likely to perform the lever notice effect after performing the reach effect of the SPSP reach effect mode than when performing the reach effect of the SP reach effect mode or the normal reach mode. It may be lowered.

  For example, if the lever notice effect from the reach effect of the normal reach mode or the SP reach effect mode is lost (that is, if one of the effects with a very high expectation of jackpot is lost), the degree of discouragement of the player Is small. On the other hand, in the case of a loss in the lever notice effect from the reach effect of the SPSP reach effect mode (that is, when the game is lost despite two effects having a very high expectation of jackpot), the player The degree of discouragement becomes large, and the player may lose his willingness to play. The gaming machine 100 has a lower probability of performing the lever announcement effect after that when the reach effect of the SPSP reach effect mode is performed than when the reach effect of the SP reach effect mode or the normal reach mode is performed. As a result, the opportunity to greatly discourage the player can be suppressed.

  Further, the gaming machine 100 has a reach effect that develops from the normal reach mode or the SP reach mode to the SPSP reach mode, and a freeze effect that continues a certain display (display immediately before the freeze effect) (an effect that does not develop like the reach effect described above). ). Also, the gaming machine 100 ends the freeze effect before the lever notice effect when performing the lever notice effect from the freeze effect. In this case, the gaming machine 100 can make it easier for the player to pay attention to the lever notice effect to be performed from now on before the lever notice effect, and can enhance the effect of the lever notice effect. On the other hand, in the case where the gaming machine 100 performs the lever notice effect from the reach effect of the SPSP reach form, the reach effect of the SPSP reach form and the lever notice effect are not ended before the lever notice effect before the lever notice effect. Do it at the same time. In this case, the gaming machine 100 can simultaneously perform a plurality of effects with a high degree of expectation of jackpot, and can greatly increase the player's sense of expectation for the jackpot.

  In the present embodiment, the freeze effect is performed based on the preliminary determination result, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the gaming machine 100 may perform a freeze effect based on the jackpot determination result. In this case, for example, when the jackpot determination result is a jackpot or a loss, the gaming machine 100 starts the freeze effect from the start of the variable display of the effect symbols Ez1 to Ez3 with a predetermined probability, and the effect symbol Ez1 The movement of the background image is stopped at the same time as the start of change display of Ez3.

  As described above, according to the present invention, the player can be entertained even when the special effect is performed in an effect mode other than the predetermined effect mode.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 Game machine 104 Image display part 105 1st starting port 106 2nd starting port 109 Prize winning opening 701 Main control part 703a Production control part 703b Image / sound control part

Claims (2)

A determination means for determining whether or not a special game advantageous to the player is performed when a predetermined start condition is satisfied;
An effect execution means capable of performing a predetermined effect based on the determination result of the determination means;
With
The production execution means
There is a special effect execution means for performing a special effect suggesting that the special game is highly likely to be performed in the first effect mode and in a second effect mode different from the first effect mode. When,
When performing the first notice effect that suggests the possibility that the special game will be performed, and performing the second notice effect that suggests that the possibility that the special game will be performed is higher than the first notice effect. When there is a notice effect execution means,
Have
The notice effect execution means includes:
Even when the special effect is performed in the first effect mode and when the special effect is performed in the second effect mode, it is possible to perform the common second notice effect,
Than when the special effect is performed in the first representation embodiment, it when the special effect is that done in the second representation embodiment is to carry out the second announcement attraction with high probability A featured gaming machine. A determination means for determining whether or not a special game advantageous to the player is performed when a predetermined start condition is satisfied;
An effect execution means capable of performing a predetermined effect based on the determination result of the determination means;
With
The production execution means
There is a special effect execution means for performing a special effect suggesting that the special game is highly likely to be performed in the first effect mode and in a second effect mode different from the first effect mode. When,
When performing the first notice effect that suggests the possibility that the special game will be performed, and performing the second notice effect that suggests that the possibility that the special game will be performed is higher than the first notice effect. When there is a notice effect execution means,
Have
The notice effect execution means includes:
When the special effect is performed in the second effect mode, the second notice effect is performed with higher probability than when the special effect is performed in the first effect mode.
When the special effect is performed in the second effect mode and before the second notice effect is performed, a suggestion effect suggesting that the second notice effect is performed can be performed. On the other hand, the gaming machine is characterized in that the suggestion effect is not performed before the second notice effect when the special effect is performed in the first effect mode.

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