JP6069561B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention has a game machine such as a ball ball game machine or a revolving game machine, in particular, a first operation means and a second operation means that can be operated by the player, and an effect mode is provided that uses at least one of the operations. It is related to a gaming machine that has been.

Conventionally, as a ball game machine as an example of a game machine, a game ball is fired on a game board by operating a handle, and in response to a game ball entering a start port arranged on the game board It is known that a jackpot game is executed when the effect symbol of the liquid crystal display unit starts to change, the changing operation of the effect symbol is stopped, and a predetermined jackpot symbol combination is displayed.
In recent years, in order to raise the player's consciousness of participation in the game, there are some ballistic gaming machines in which effect buttons that can be operated by the player are arranged separately from the handle. For example, Patent Document 1 below proposes a ball game machine in which a button effect mode (operation means use effect mode) for performing an effect using an effect button is prepared. In the ball and ball game machine of Patent Document 1, the operation of the effect button is validated during the button effect mode, and it is determined whether or not the effect button has been operated, and the advantageous gaming state (special profit state) is determined based on the determination result. It is disclosed that the notification mode of the degree of expectation to the above is controlled.

JP 2010-110517 A

By the way, it is conceivable to provide two such operation means (production buttons) (first operation means and second operation means) and two in the gaming machine. In such a gaming machine, it is conceivable to have an operation means use effect mode (button effect mode) that includes a first operation means and a second operation means and uses at least one of the operations. In this case, it is required to improve the interest of the operation means utilization effect mode.
Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can improve the interest of the operation means utilization effect mode.

  In order to achieve the above object, the invention according to claim 1 includes first operating means and second operating means operable by a player, and at least one of the first operating means and the second operating means. A gaming machine in which an operation means use effect mode using an operation is prepared, and in the operation means use effect mode, a first operation valid means for enabling acceptance of an operation of the first operation means, and the operation In the means utilization effect mode, the second operation valid means for validating the acceptance of the operation of the second operation means, the mode period setting means for setting the execution period of the operation means utilization effect mode, and the second operation means When an operation is accepted, when a mode period extension means for extending the execution period and an operation of the second operation means are accepted, a predetermined waiting time elapses after the operation is accepted. Until a predetermined waiting time elapses after receiving the operation when the first operation invalidating means that does not validate the acceptance of the operation of the first operating means and the operation of the second operating means. Until then, there is provided a gaming machine comprising second operation invalidating means that does not validate the acceptance of the operation of the second operating means.

  The invention according to claim 2 is the gaming machine according to claim 1, further comprising standby display means for displaying a standby display during the standby time.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a gaming machine that can improve the interest of the operation means utilization effect mode.

1 is a perspective view of a bullet ball gaming machine to which a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention is applied. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view for explaining a configuration of a first effect button of the ball game machine shown in FIG. 1. It is sectional drawing for demonstrating the structure of the 2nd production button of the ball game machine shown in FIG. It is a front view which shows schematic structure of the game board of the ball game machine shown in FIG. It is a block diagram which shows the electrical structure of the ball game machine shown in FIG. It is a block diagram which shows the electrical structure in the part relevant to the effect control board and effect interface board which are shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the timer interruption process of a main control board. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the 1st special symbol management process shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the 1st special symbol starting port check process shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the flow of the effect displayed on a liquid crystal display unit. It is a figure which shows the image displayed on a liquid crystal display unit in relation to button production mode (the 1). It is a figure which shows the image displayed on a liquid crystal display unit in relation to button production mode (the 2). It is a figure which shows the image displayed on a liquid crystal display unit in relation to button production mode (the 3). It is a figure which shows the image displayed on a liquid crystal display unit in relation to button production mode (the 4). It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the effect lottery process performed in the effect control board shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the button effect mode included in the effect lottery process shown in FIG. It is a timing chart which shows a series of flows in the button production mode which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a timing chart which shows a series of flows in the button production mode which concerns on other embodiment of this invention.

Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a ball game machine 1 to which a game machine according to an embodiment of the present invention is applied. Hereinafter, a ball game machine (pachinko machine) 1 will be described as an example, but the present invention is not limited to a ball game machine, and may be applied to other game machines such as a revolving game machine represented by a slot machine. Can be applied.

The bullet ball gaming machine 1 includes a substantially square frame-shaped outer frame 2 for mounting (installation) on game islands arranged in a game store, and an inner frame 3 attached to the outer frame 2 so as to be able to open one side. It has. A hinge 4 is attached to one of the left and right sides of the outer frame 2, for example, the left side, and the inner frame 3 is held so as to be rotatable around a rotation axis of the hinge 4.
A game board 5 (see FIG. 4) is accommodated and held in the upper part of the inner frame 3. A launching device (not shown) is accommodated and held in the lower part of the inner frame 3. A safe ball recovery unit (not shown) is disposed below the game board 5 in the inner frame 3. A front door 6 is provided on the front side of the inner frame 3 so as to be openable and closable. A lower opening / closing plate 7 is provided on the front side of the inner frame 3 below the front door 6 so as to be opened and closed. The front door 6 is formed with a substantially circular opening 8 at a position facing the game board 5. A transparent plate 9 such as a glass plate is fitted in the opening 8, and the game board 5 on the back side of the transparent plate 9 is visually recognized through the transparent plate 9 with the front door 6 closed. Can be done. A pair of left and right speakers 28 are disposed on the upper portion of the front door 6. In addition, a pair of left and right game lamps 27 are disposed at the lower part of the front door 6.

  On the lower opening / closing plate 7, an upper plate 10 for storing game balls used for a game and a lower plate 11 for receiving game balls overflowing from the upper plate 10 through an overflow path (not shown) are arranged vertically. Is provided. A push button type first effect button (first operation means) 12 that can be pushed (operated) by the player is arranged at the upper left corner of the upper plate 10. A push button type second effect button (second operation means) 13 that can be pushed (operated) by the player is arranged at the center of the upper surface of the upper plate 10. On the right side of the lower plate 11, a handle 14 is disposed that is operated when a game ball is launched into the game board 5. A player can launch a game ball from the launching device toward the board surface of the game board 5 by grasping the handle 14 and rotating it, and by adjusting the rotation angle of the handle 14, The momentum of the game ball fired toward the board surface of the board 5 can be adjusted.

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view for explaining the configuration of the first effect button 12 of the ball game machine 1.
As shown in FIG. 2, the first effect button 12 is fixed to the operated portion 121 and, for example, the upper plate cover 111 that covers the upper surface and the front surface of the upper plate 10, and the operated portion 121 is set to the non-pressed position and the pressing limit. A support frame 124 that is movably supported within a movable range between the position, a return spring 125 that elastically biases the operated portion 121 toward the non-depressed position, and an operation detection that detects an operating state of the operated portion 121. Part 126. The first effect button 12 is disposed on the upper plate cover 111 in a state where the operated portion 121 is slightly protruded obliquely upward.

  The support frame 124 integrally includes, for example, a bottomed cylindrical storage portion 127 formed in an elliptical cross section and a flange portion 128 that projects outward from the end edge of the storage portion 127. The support frame 124 is fitted into the opening formed on the upper plate cover 111 from the outside, and the edge of the opening is sandwiched between, for example, the fixing claw 129 and the flange 128 provided on the outer peripheral surface of the housing 127. In addition, the upper plate cover 111 is fixed on the upper plate cover 111 by being connected to the fixed block 130 in the upper plate cover 111 by screwing or the like.

  The operated part 121 is made of, for example, a light-transmitting synthetic resin. The operated portion 121 includes an operated wall 131 formed in a substantially flat oval shape, and a peripheral wall portion 132 projecting inward along the inner surface of the accommodating portion 127 from the outer edge side of the operated wall 131. It is prepared as one. The operated part 121 is supported through the movable support part 133 so as to be movable in the accommodating part 127 of the support frame 124.

  The movable support portion 133 includes an inner wall portion 134 that fits in the peripheral wall portion 132 of the operated portion 121, and a plurality of restrictions that project inward along the axial direction of the housing portion 127 from the outer edge side of the inner wall portion 134. A claw 135 and a light shielding piece 136 projecting inward along the axial direction of the accommodating portion 127 from, for example, the approximate center of the inner wall portion 134 are provided. The inner wall portion 134, the plurality of restricting claws 135, and the light shielding piece 136 are integrally formed. In the movable support portion 133, the operated portion 121 is mounted and fixed with the decorative sheet 137 and the irregular reflection plate 138 sandwiched between the inner wall portion 134 on one end side. Further, the restriction claw 135 on the other end side penetrates the fitting hole 139a formed in the bottom wall 139 of the housing portion 127 and is engaged with the back side thereof. Thereby, the movable support part 133 is supporting the to-be-operated part 121 so that a movement within the movable range between a non-pressing position and a pressing-down limit position is possible.

  Further, a return spring 125 is mounted between the inner wall portion 134 of the movable support portion 133 and the bottom wall 139 of the housing portion 127, and the operated portion 121 is elastically moved toward the non-depressed position via the movable support portion 133. It is energized. When the operated portion 121 is in the non-pressed position, for example, the restricting claw 135 is engaged with the back side of the bottom wall 139 of the accommodating portion 127 to restrict outward movement, and the operated portion 121 is set to the pressing limit position. In some cases, for example, the edge of the operated portion 121 abuts against the bottom wall 139 of the accommodating portion 127 so that the inward movement is restricted.

  Further, for example, on the back side of the bottom wall 139 of the accommodating portion 127, a sensor substrate 140 on which the operation detecting portion 126 and the LEDs are mounted is fixed. The operation detection unit 126 is, for example, a substantially U-shaped transmissive photosensor in which a light projecting unit and a light receiving unit are arranged to face each other, and the housing unit 127 so as to face the light shielding piece 136 on the movable support unit 133 side. Is fitted outwardly into a fitting hole 139b formed in the bottom wall 139 of the base plate. The operation detection unit 126 turns off the detection signal when the operated unit 121 is in the OFF region on the non-pressed position side in the movable range, and the ON region on the pressing limit position side in the movable range of the operated unit 121. The detection signal is turned on when the signal is within.

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view for explaining the configuration of the second effect button 13 of the ball game machine 1.
The second effect button 13 is a push button type operation button having a dome-shaped operated portion 141, for example.
The second effect button 13 includes a rotating lamp 142, an operated portion 141 that also serves as a light-emitting cover that covers the rotating lamp 142, and is fixed to, for example, the upper plate cover 111, and the operated portion 141 has a non-pressing position and a pressing limit position. A support frame 143 that is movably supported in the direction of the rotating shaft 142a of the rotating lamp 142 within a movable range, a return spring 144 that elastically biases the operated portion 141 toward the non-depressed position, and the operated portion 141 An operation detection unit 145 that detects an operation state, and a reflection cover 146 that is fitted on the outer periphery of the operated portion 141 and that has an upper end outer periphery fitted to the opening of the upper plate cover 111 are provided. The second effect button 13 is disposed in the upper plate cover 111 in a state where the operated portion 141 protrudes obliquely upward in the front direction.

  The rotating lamp 142 is fixedly disposed so as to surround the rotating shaft 142a, and is disposed along the front side of the LED substrate 148, the LED substrate 148 having a plurality of LEDs 147 disposed on the front side (the operated portion 141 side). The rotating lens unit 149 is rotatably supported via the rotating shaft 142a, and is fixed in the vicinity of the outer peripheral portion on the front side of the rotating lens unit 149, and is emitted from the LED 147 and passes through the rotating lens unit 149 in the axial direction. A reflecting plate 150 that reflects light outward in the radial direction, a driving unit 152 such as a stepping motor that rotationally drives the rotating lens unit 149 and the reflecting plate 150 via the rotating shaft 142a, the gear 151, and the like, and the LED substrate 148. , A rotating lens unit 149, a support case 153 that supports the driving unit 152, and the like. The support case 153 is fixed to the upper plate cover 111 via a support frame 143, for example.

  The rotating lens portion 149 is made of a transparent synthetic resin, and for example, a convex lens portion 149a protruding to the front side is formed in a ring shape continuous in the circumferential direction of the rotating shaft 142a. On the LED substrate 148, the LEDs 147 are arranged, for example, at an equal pitch in the circumferential direction so as to correspond to the back side of the convex lens portion 149a. The reflecting plate 150 is arranged on the outer peripheral side of the convex lens portion 149a, is gradually curved toward the center side of the rotating lens portion 149 from the base side to the tip side, and the inner surface thereof is a concave reflecting surface 150a. . When the light emitted from the LED 147 passes through the rotating lens unit 149, most of the light is collected by the convex lens unit 149a and proceeds in the axial direction, and a part of the light is reflected by the reflecting plate 150 that rotates together with the rotating lens unit 149. It strikes the surface 150a and is reflected radially outward. Note that a substantially funnel-shaped reflective surface 146 a that opens upward in the axial direction is formed on the inner surface side of the reflective cover 146 disposed on the outer peripheral side of the operated portion 141, and is reflected radially outward by the reflective plate 150. The light passes through the operated portion 141 and is reflected in the axial direction by the reflection surface 146a of the reflection cover 146.

  The operated part 141 is made of, for example, colored transparent synthetic resin, and is formed in a substantially hemispherical shape covering the rotating lens part 149 and the reflecting plate 150 of the rotating lamp 142, and the reflecting cover 146 so that a part of the tip side protrudes. It fits outwards inward. The operated portion 141 has a rotating shaft 142 a with respect to the support frame 143 via a movable ring 154 disposed on the outer peripheral side of the rotating lens portion 149 and a plurality of sliding guide shafts 155 fixed to the back side of the movable ring 154. And is elastically biased outward in the axial direction, that is, to the non-pressed position side by the return spring 144. When the operated portion 141 is in the non-depressed position, for example, the flange portion 141a provided at the edge of the operated portion 141 abuts on the inner end side of the reflective cover 146 and the outward movement is restricted. When the operation unit 141 is at the push-down limit position, for example, the end of the movable ring 154 comes into contact with the support frame 143 so that the inward movement is restricted.

  Further, for example, a sensor substrate 156 on which the operation detection unit 145 is mounted is fixed to the support frame 143. The operation detection unit 145 is a substantially U-shaped transmissive photosensor in which, for example, a light projecting unit and a light receiving unit are arranged face to face, for example, the movable ring 154, as with the operation detection unit 126 on the first effect button 12 side. When the operated part 141 is in the OFF region on the non-pressed position side in the movable range, the detection signal is turned OFF, and the operated part 141 is set to correspond to the light shielding piece 157 provided above. The detection signal is turned ON when it is in the ON region on the pressing limit position side in the movable range.

Note that with such a second effect button 13, every time an operation of the second effect button 13 is accepted, an effect that activates the rotating lamp 142 provided inside the operated portion 141 may be executed. .
FIG. 4 is a front view showing a schematic configuration of the game board 5 of the ball game machine 1.
On the board surface of the game board 5, a guide rail 14 for guiding the game ball launched from the launching device to the upper left side of the game board 5 is arranged. A large number of obstacle nails 16 (only some of the obstacle nails 16 are shown in FIG. 4) are arranged on the surface of the game board 5, and diagonally right along the guide rail 14 from the upper left side of the game board 5. The game balls released upward flow down along the board surface of the game board 5 through a large number of obstacle nails 16.

A liquid crystal display unit 15 is disposed in the center of the board surface of the game board 5. The liquid crystal display unit 15 is for displaying effect symbols, predetermined messages, and the like.
Below the liquid crystal display unit 15, a first special symbol start port 18 and a second special symbol start port 29 are arranged vertically. The first and second special symbol start ports 18 and 29 are provided so that game balls flowing down along the surface of the game board 5 can enter.

  On the board surface of the game board 5, an electric tulip accessory (ordinary electric accessory) 19 including a pair of blades is arranged in association with the second special symbol starting port 29. The electric tulip accessory 19 is usually constricted in a state where the tip portions of the blades are close to each other (narrowed state). In the constricted state of the electric tulip accessory 19, a game ball that flows down along the board surface of the game board 5 enters the second special symbol start opening 29, and the first special symbol start opening 18 enters the 1 Blocked by a pair of vanes. Then, in the state where the electric tulip accessory 19 is expanded, each of the blades of the electric tulip accessory 19 is expanded so that a game ball can enter the second special symbol start opening 29, 2 The special symbol starting port 29 is opened.

In addition, the structure of the electric tulip accessory 19 is not limited to this, For example, the structure which withdraws in the front-back direction may be sufficient, and the big prize opening opening / closing board (special electric accessory) 21 described below is sufficient. Similarly, the configuration may be such that it tilts to the near side about the rotation axis.
When a game ball enters the first or second special symbol start opening 18, 29, a predetermined number (for example, five balls for the game ball entering the first special symbol start opening 18, and the second special symbol start opening 18, 29). 3 prize balls are paid out from the prize ball payout device 50 (see FIG. 5). In addition, a big hit lottery (special profit state lottery) for determining whether or not to execute the special profit state is executed in accordance with the game ball entering the first or second special symbol start opening 18, 29. The

  Below the second special symbol start opening 29, that is, below the board surface of the game board 5, for example, a large winning opening 20 having a long rectangular shape on the left and right is arranged. The big winning opening 20 is formed in a size that allows a plurality of (for example, 3 to 4) game balls to enter simultaneously in the left-right direction. In relation to the big prize opening 20, a big prize opening opening / closing plate 21 capable of opening and closing the big prize opening 20 is provided. The big prize opening / closing plate 21 closes the big prize opening 20 in a state along the board surface of the game board 5 and can prevent the game ball from entering the big prize opening 20. A game ball that flows down onto the grand prize opening 20 is opened by tilting to the near side with a pivot shaft (not shown) arranged along the lower edge of the mouth 20 as a center. It can be introduced into the big prize opening 20. When a game ball enters the big prize opening 20, a predetermined number (for example, 10 balls) of prize balls are paid out from the prize ball payout device 50 (see FIG. 5).

A normal symbol gate 17 through which a game ball flowing down along the board surface of the game board 5 can pass is disposed on the right side of the liquid crystal display unit 15, that is, on the right part of the board surface of the game board 5. When the game ball passes through the normal symbol gate 17, a normal symbol lottery for determining whether or not to expand the electric tulip accessory 19 (whether or not to execute the normal profit state) is executed.
A first special symbol display means 22, a second special symbol display means 23, and a normal symbol display means 26 are disposed in the outer region of the guide rail 14 in the upper right part of the game board 5. These display means 22, 23, and 26 are arranged in a line in this order from the upper right part of the game board 5 toward the lower right direction.

  The first special symbol display means 22 is for displaying the result of the big hit lottery executed for the entrance of the game ball into the first special symbol start port 18, and is constituted by, for example, a 7-segment display. ing. In the first special symbol display means 22, for example, the symbol is alternately switched at high speed between “8” and “−” in association with the game ball entering the first special symbol start port 18. The symbol variation operation is executed for a predetermined symbol variation time. When the result of the big hit lottery is a big hit (when it is determined to execute the special profit state), the special symbol for big hit is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display means 22 after the symbol change time elapses. If the result of the lottery is lost, the special symbol for shift is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display means 22 after the symbol variation time has elapsed.

  The second special symbol display means 23 is for displaying the result of the big hit lottery executed for the entrance of the game ball into the second special symbol start port 29, and is constituted by, for example, a 7-segment display. ing. In the second special symbol display means 23, for example, the symbol is alternately switched between “8” and “−” at high speed in association with the game ball entering the second special symbol start port 29. The symbol variation operation is executed for a predetermined symbol variation time. If the result of the big win lottery is a big win (when it is determined to execute the special profit state), after the symbol change time has elapsed, the special symbol for the big win is stopped and displayed on the second special symbol display means 23. If the result of the lottery is lost, the special symbol for shifting is stopped and displayed on the second special symbol display means 23 after the symbol variation time has elapsed.

  The normal symbol display means 26 is for displaying the result of the normal symbol lottery executed for the passage of the game ball to the normal symbol gate 17, and is constituted by, for example, a 7-segment display. In the normal symbol display means 26, in association with the game ball passing through the normal symbol gate 17, for example, a symbol changing operation in which the symbol is alternately switched between “8” and “−” at a high speed is predetermined. It is executed during the symbol variation time. When the result of the normal symbol lottery is a win (when the expansion of the electric tulip accessory 19 is determined), the normal symbol for winning is stopped and displayed on the normal symbol display means 26 after the symbol variation time has elapsed. If the result of the normal symbol lottery is out of date, the normal symbol for shifting is stopped and displayed on the normal symbol display means 26 after the symbol variation time has elapsed.

  The result of the big hit lottery is displayed not only on the first and second special symbol display means 22 and 23 but also on the liquid crystal display unit 15. That is, during the special symbol changing operation of the special symbol display means 22 and 23, the effect symbol changing operation by the liquid crystal display unit 15 is executed. When the result of the big hit lottery is a big hit, after the end of the effect symbol changing operation, the big hit effect symbol is stopped and displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 15. Further, when the result of the big hit lottery is lost, the effect symbol for losing is stopped and displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 15 after the end of the changing operation of the effect symbol.

  Further, in the outer region of the guide rail 14 in the upper right part of the game board 5, a first special symbol reserved ball number display means (not shown), a second special symbol reserved ball number display means (not shown), Normal symbol reserved ball number display means (not shown) is arranged. The first special symbol reserved ball number display means is for displaying the number of symbol variation operations of the reserved first special symbol display means 22. The second special symbol reserved ball number display means is for displaying the number of symbol variation operations of the second special symbol display means 23 being held. The normal symbol reserved ball number display means is for displaying the number of symbol variation operations of the normal symbol display means 26 being held.

The ball game machine 1 is provided with a probability variation game. For example, the jackpot probability in the jackpot lottery during the probability variation game is set to 1/40. Also, the jackpot probability when the probability varying game is not executed is set to a probability lower than the jackpot probability in the probability varying game, for example, 1/400.
In addition, a support game is also executed during the probability variation game. When the support game is not executed, that is, when the probability variation game is not executed, the normal symbol display means 26 with respect to the passing of the game ball to the normal symbol gate 17 has a symbol change time of 27 (sec), for example, and the normal symbol lottery is won. The probability is, for example, 1/100, the number of times the second special symbol start opening 29 is opened (the number of times the electric tulip accessory 19 is expanded) at the time of winning the normal symbol lottery is, for example, once, and the time required for each opening is, for example, 0.2 (sec). Therefore, in the bullet ball game machine 1, the electric tulip accessory 19 is rarely expanded when the probability variation game is not executed, so that the game ball flowing down the board surface of the game board 5 is the second special symbol start port. 29 hardly enters the ball.

  On the other hand, during the support game, that is, during the probability variation game, the symbol variation time of the normal symbol display means 26 with respect to the passing of the game ball to the normal symbol gate 17 is, for example, 2.7 (sec). For example, the probability is 1 / 1.1, the number of times the second special symbol start port 29 is opened at the time of winning the normal symbol lottery is, for example, 2 times, and the time required for each opening is, for example, 2.0 (sec). In this way, during the support game, the symbol variation time of the normal symbol display means 26 with respect to the passage of the game ball to the normal symbol gate 17 is shorter and the winning probability of the normal symbol lottery is higher than when the support game is not executed. In addition, the degree of opening of the second special symbol start port 29 (including the number of times of opening and the time required for each opening) at the time of winning the normal symbol lottery is high. Therefore, during the probability variation game, the electric tulip accessory 19 is frequently expanded, and the game ball flowing down the board surface of the game board 5 is likely to enter the second special symbol start port 29 frequently.

In the above-mentioned support game, the symbol variation time of the normal symbol display means 26 is shortened compared to when the support game is not executed, the winning probability of the normal symbol lottery is set higher than when the support game is not executed, and the normal symbol is displayed. The degree of opening of the second special symbol start port 29 at the time of winning the lottery is made higher than when the support game is not executed. However, it is not necessary for the support game to play all three, and at least two of them need only be played. In addition, the winning probability during the support game, the symbol variation time of the normal symbol display means 26 during the support game, the number of times of opening the second special symbol start port 29 during the support game, and each opening are shown. Needless to say, the time required is only an example and is not limited thereto. Since the probability variation game and the support game are not characteristic features of the present invention, the description of the processing executed by the gaming machine 1 for performing the probability variation game and the support game is omitted.

  During the special profit state, the big prize opening 20 is opened by swinging the big prize opening / closing plate 21. In the special profit state, the grand prize opening 20 is held until a predetermined time (for example, for 30.0 (sec)) elapses or until a predetermined number of gaming balls (for example, 10 balls) enter the big prize opening 20 in advance. The operation of the big prize opening / closing plate 21 such as opening is regarded as one round, and such an operation is performed only for a plurality of rounds (for example, 2 rounds, 15 rounds, etc.) with an interval therebetween.

In addition, one or a plurality of normal winning openings 25 are arranged on the surface of the game board 5. In FIG. 4, two normal winning openings 25 are arranged in the lower left part of the board surface of the game board 5. When a game ball enters the normal winning opening 25, a predetermined number (for example, three balls) of prize balls are paid out from the prize ball payout device 50 (see FIG. 5).
Of the game balls flowing down along the surface of the game board 5, game balls that have not entered any of the first and second special symbol start openings 18, 29, the big winning opening 20, and the normal winning opening 25 (out ball) Is collected in the machine from the out port 24 formed in the lower part of the board surface of the game board 5.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of the ball game machine 1.
The ball game machine 1 includes a main control board 30 that controls the operation of the game, an effect control board 31 that controls the effect control, and a payout control board 32 for paying out the game balls from the ball game machine 1. Yes. The payout control board 32 includes a microcomputer including a CPU 32A, a RAM 32B, a ROM 32C, and the like, and is connected to the main control board 30. To the payout control board 32, a prize ball payout device 50 is connected as a control target.

The effect control board 31 is connected to the main control board 30 via the effect interface board 33. A liquid crystal display control board 34 is connected to the effect control board 31 via an effect interface board 33.
The liquid crystal display control board 34 includes a microcomputer including a CPU 34A, a RAM 34B, and a ROM 34C. The liquid crystal display unit 15 is connected to the liquid crystal display control board 34 as a control target.

  The main control board 30 includes a microcomputer including a CPU 30A, a RAM 30B, and a ROM 30C. The main control board 30 is connected to the first and second special symbol display means 22 and 23 and the normal symbol display means 26 as control targets. Further, the main control board 30 includes first and second special symbol start-port entrance sensors 36 for detecting the entrance into the first and second special symbol start-up ports 18 and 29 (see FIG. 4), respectively. The detection output from 37 is input.

  Further, the main control board 30 has a detection output from the normal gate passage sensor 38 for detecting that a game ball has passed through the normal symbol gate 17 (see FIG. 4) via the game board relay board 35, and a large output. The detection output from the big winning opening entrance ball sensor 39 for detecting that a gaming ball has entered the winning opening 20 (see FIG. 4), and the fact that a gaming ball has entered the normal winning opening 25 (see FIG. 4). A detection output from the normal winning opening entrance ball sensor 40 for detection is inputted.

The main control board 30 includes an electric tulip drive mechanism (including solenoids, for example) 41 for driving an electric tulip accessory 19 (see FIG. 4) via a game board relay board 35, and a big prize opening. A prize opening opening / closing mechanism (including, for example, solenoids) 42 for opening / closing the opening / closing plate 21 (see FIG. 4) is connected as a control target.
A speaker 28 and a game lamp 27 are connected to the effect interface board 33 as control targets via a frame relay board 43. In addition, the first effect button 12 and the second effect button 13 are connected to the effect interface board 33, respectively.

  The production control board 31 determines specific production contents of the liquid crystal display unit 15 based on the control command signal from the main control board 30 and outputs production information (control command signal) for executing the production contents. . Specifically, the effect information output from the effect control board 31 is given to the liquid crystal display control board 34 via the effect interface board 33. The liquid crystal display control board 34 controls the display of the liquid crystal display unit 15 based on the contents of the effect information sent from the effect control board 31.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of portions related to the effect control board 31 and the effect interface board 33.
As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the effect control board 31 includes a CPU (first operation valid means, second operation valid means, mode period setting means, mode period extension means, first operation invalid means, and second operation invalid. Means, standby display means) 31A and a microcomputer including a memory 31B. Buffer circuits 52, 53, 54, and 55 are mounted on the effect interface board 33.

  The control command signal output from the main control board 30 is input to the effect control board 31 via the buffer circuit 52 of the effect interface board 33. The production control board 31 determines specific production contents based on the variation pattern command signal included in the control command signal sent from the main control board 30. The contents of the effect are not limited to the display contents such as the display image on the liquid crystal display unit 15 (see FIG. 4 and the like), but the contents of the lamp effect by lighting or blinking lamps (including the game lamp 27 (see FIG. 1)). And audio content such as audio output from the speaker 28 (see FIG. 1).

  The effect information (control command signal) transmitted from the effect control board 31 is output to the liquid crystal display control board 34, the frame relay board 43, etc. via the buffer circuit 53 of the effect interface board 33, respectively. Operation input signals from the first effect button 12 and the second effect button 13 are input to the effect control board 31 via the buffer circuit 54 and the buffer circuit 55 of the effect interface board 33, respectively.

The bullet ball gaming machine 1 is provided with a button effect mode (operation means use effect mode) for performing button effect processing using the first effect button 12 and the second effect button 13 as an example of the effect mode. .
The button effect mode according to this embodiment is an effect mode used for the effect for the notice effect PN (see FIG. 10A) or the super reach SR (see FIG. 10A). (See FIG. 10D) is a so-called “struck out” effect in which a total of nine panels of 3 × 3 arrangement, for example, displayed on the panel frame display section 55 (see FIG. 10D) are punched out by pitching.

In the button effect mode, each time the player operates the first effect button 12, the character 56 (see FIG. 10D) of the liquid crystal display unit 15 performs a single pitching operation. The initial period length of the button effect mode is set to 30.0 (sec), for example. A predetermined number of times (for example, 12 times) is given in one button effect mode.
Within a given number of pitches, a predetermined number or more of panels are shot out in the panel frame display unit 55 (see FIG. 10D), or a predetermined panel of the panel frame display unit 55 is shot out. When the special effect transition requirement is satisfied, the process proceeds to “special effect (in this embodiment, a big success establishment effect)” described below.

  In the button effect mode according to this embodiment, the set button effect mode period (30.0 (sec). The period of the operation means use effect mode) expires or the character 56 (FIG. 10D) from the start of the button effect mode. It ends with the requirement (when the operation of the first effect button 12 is received 12 times) as a requirement (when the earlier one is established).

In this embodiment, a so-called bingo format is adopted, which satisfies the above-mentioned special performance transition requirement when any of vertical, horizontal, and diagonal rows are aligned on the panel that has been punched. In the button effect mode for effects for the super reach SR (see FIG. 10A), the special profit state is then executed after the execution of the big hit effect.
The period length of the button effect mode that is initially set is, for example, 30.0 (sec). However, when the second effect button 13 is operated in the button effect mode, the remaining button effect mode period is extended.

  In periods other than the button effect mode, the operations of the first effect button 12 and the second effect button 13 are invalidated. That is, it is in a state in which the acceptance of the operation of the first effect button 12 is prohibited and the acceptance of the operation of the second effect button 13 is prohibited. Therefore, even if the first effect button 12 or the second effect button 13 is operated during a period other than the button effect mode, the button operation is not accepted.

  On the other hand, in the button effect mode, in principle, the operations of the first effect button 12 and the second effect button 13 are each effective. That is, during the button effect mode, the operation of the first effect button 12 is permitted and the operation of the second effect button 13 is permitted. However, once the operation of the first effect setting button 12 is accepted in the button effect mode, the acceptance of the operation of the first effect button 12 is prohibited until a predetermined time (for example, 2.0 (sec)) elapses immediately after that. The first reception prohibition period is set. In the first reception prohibition period, the operation of the first effect button 12 is prohibited. When the first reception prohibition period elapses, the operation of the first effect button 12 is permitted. During the first reception prohibition period, in the liquid crystal display unit 15 (see FIG. 4), after the character 56 (see FIG. 10D) starts the pitching motion, the ball thrown by the pitching motion is displayed on the panel frame display unit. An effect that reaches around 55 (see FIG. 10D) is performed. Also, in the button effect mode, when the effect operation reset based on the operation of the second effect button 13 is executed twice in the button effect mode, the reception of the operation of the second effect button 13 is prohibited immediately after that. Put into a state.

  When the operation of the first effect button 12 is accepted during the button effect mode, the button lottery is executed. Then, the production content is determined according to the button lottery result, and the determined production content is executed. In this embodiment, as the contents of the effect, “winning effect (predetermined effect)” executed when the button lottery is won, and “out of effect (predetermined effect)” executed when the button lottery is lost. There are two types. When the button lottery is won, a “winning effect” is executed such that the panel of the panel frame display portion 55 (see FIG. 10D) that has not been shot is shot. When the button is not selected, the ball thrown by the character 56 (see FIG. 10D) passes the side or upper / lower side of the panel frame display unit 55, or a panel unrelated to the establishment of “reach” or “bingo” is displayed. An “out-of-direction effect” that is pulled out is executed.

When any of vertical, horizontal, and diagonal lines are aligned on the panel that has been shot in the button effect mode, the special effect transition requirement is satisfied. Then, after the combination of effect symbols for jackpot is stopped and displayed, the jackpot effect (see FIG. 10E. Specific effect) is executed. Then, the special profit state is executed.
On the other hand, if the vertical panel, horizontal line, or diagonal line is not aligned on the projected panel before the end of the button effect mode, the liquid crystal display unit 15 (see FIG. 4) thereafter causes the effect pattern for removal. The combination of is stopped and displayed.

It should be noted that even if the panel that has been shot out before the end of the button effect mode does not have any vertical, horizontal, or diagonal columns, it may be possible to execute the big hit establishment effect thereafter.
The memory 31B is provided with a button lottery table 45 that stores numerical values for winning the button lottery, a progress degree storage unit 46 that stores the progress degree of the effect in the button effect mode (panel shot mode), and the like.

The button lottery table 45 stores a numerical value for winning a button lottery. In addition, the button lottery table 45 corresponds to the elapsed time from the start of the button effect mode so that the winning probability of the button lottery increases as the elapsed time from the start of the button effect mode becomes longer. A numerical value for winning a button lottery may be set.
The progress degree storage unit 46 stores values (progression values) representing game progress degrees (for example, four stages from stage “0” to stage “3”). Based on the progress value stored in the progress storage unit 46, the display mode of the panel frame display unit 55 (see FIG. 10D) in the liquid crystal display unit 15 (see FIG. 4) is displayed. In other words, when the progress value stored in the progress storage unit 46 is, for example, “3”, “bingo” in which any one of the vertical, horizontal, and diagonal columns is arranged in the panel frame display unit 55 is established. It is in the state. Further, when the progress value stored in the progress storage unit 46 is “2”, for example, one of the vertical, horizontal, and diagonal directions is obtained by removing the remaining one panel in the panel frame display unit 55. This is a state where the “reach” in which the rows are aligned is established. In addition, when the progress value stored in the progress storage unit 46 is “1”, for example, “reach” and “bingo” although one or more panels are projected in the panel frame display unit 55. None of the above has been established yet.

  In addition, the effect control board 31 is provided with an external button lottery random number counter 47, an operation timer 48, a reception prohibition period clock timer 48, a remaining period timer 49, and the like. The button lottery random number counter 47 randomly generates, for example, button lottery random numbers from “0” to “99”. The CPU 31A can acquire a button lottery random number generated by the button lottery random number counter 47.

  The reception prohibition period timing timer 48 is provided for setting a first reception prohibition period during which the reception of the operation of the first effect button 12 is prohibited during the button effect mode. The reception prohibition period timing timer 48 is, for example, a subtraction type timer. The reception prohibition period clock timer 48 is set with a predetermined first reception prohibition period (in this embodiment, for example, a constant period of 2.0 (sec), for example, a first time period) when button lottery is started. Is done. Note that the first reception prohibition period to be set is a fixed period, but the first reception prohibition period can be changed in accordance with the contents of the production. Thereafter, the value of the reception prohibition period clock timer 48 is subtracted every predetermined time. When a predetermined first reception prohibition period is set in the reception prohibition period clock timer 48 and the value of the reception prohibition period clock timer 48 becomes zero after the first reception prohibition period has elapsed, the reception prohibition period clock timer 48 is zero. Holds the value of.

  The remaining period timer 49 is, for example, a subtraction type timer for measuring the remaining time in the button effect mode. The remaining period timer 49 is set with a preset time (for example, 30.0 (sec)) as the button effect mode period at the start of the button effect mode. Thereafter, the value of the remaining period timer 49 is subtracted every predetermined time. After the button production mode period (for example, 30.0 (sec)) is set in the remaining period timer 49, when the value of the remaining period timer 49 becomes zero after the predetermined time has elapsed, the remaining period timer 49 is set to zero. Hold.

Returning to FIG. 5, the control program of the main control board 30 includes a system reset process which is a main process that is started based on the restoration or input of the power supply voltage.
Execution of the system reset process is started when power is turned on and a system reset signal from a power supply board (not shown) is input to the main control board 30. In this case, the CPU 30A first sets itself to an interrupt disabled state and initializes the values of the respective registers built in the CPU 30A. Next, the CPU 30 </ b> A waits until the initial setting of the peripheral boards (for example, boards such as the payout control board 32 and the effect control board 31) is completed.

  Further, a voltage drop signal having a voltage level (for example, an ON state) indicating a power-on state is input to the main control board 30 as the power is turned on. When the voltage drop signal is a voltage level indicating a power-on state, the CPU 30A confirms that the payout control board 32 has started up normally, and then determines the level of the RAM clear signal applied from the power board. When the clear signal is at the L level, the entire area of the RAM 20B is cleared to zero, and when the RAM clear signal is at the H level, the validity / invalidity of the backup data stored in the RAM 20B is determined.

  Upon completion of execution of these processes, the system reset process is terminated, and the main process (main loop process) enters an infinite loop. During the infinite loop of the main process, update processing is executed for various counters with the CPU 30A set to the interrupt disabled state, and after the end of the execution, the CPU 30A is returned to the interrupt enabled state. During an infinite loop of the main process, a maskable timer interrupt process is executed every 2 (msec). More specifically, in the CPU 30A, on the condition that the CPU 30A is in the interrupt permitted state, the main process is interrupted every 2 (msec), and the timer interrupt process is executed.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the flow of timer interrupt processing in the main control board 30. The timer interrupt process will be described with reference to FIG. 1, FIG. 5, and FIG.
When the timer interrupt process is started, the abnormal power supply check process is promptly executed without saving the CPU 30A register (step S1). In the abnormal power supply check process, the level of the voltage drop signal supplied to the main control board 30 from a power supply board (not shown) connected to the main control board 30 is determined. When it is detected that the level of the voltage drop signal is a level indicating power supply interruption over one or a plurality of timer interruption processes, the process proceeds to the backup process.

On the other hand, if it is determined that the voltage drop signal is at a level that does not indicate power-off, timer subtraction (timer management) is performed for each timer (including timers 48, 49, etc.) that manages the game operation time. (S2: Timer management process).
Next, an input management process is executed (step S3). The input management process stores the contents of detection outputs of various sensors provided in the ball game machine 1 (for example, whether the various detection sensors output an on / off signal, whether they are on or off), This is a process of periodically updating data based on the. Examples of the various sensors include the first and second special symbol start entrance ball sensors 36 and 37, the normal gate passage sensor 38, the big winning entrance entrance sensor 39, the ordinary winning entrance entrance sensor 40, and the like.

  Next, the value of a random number counter for hit determination (not shown) used in normal symbol determination in normal symbol management processing (step S7) described later, and first and second special symbol management processing (steps S9, S10) described later. The value of the jackpot determination random number counter (not shown) used in the jackpot determination random number determination process in is updated (S4: random number management process in timer interruption).

Next, an error management process is performed to determine whether or not the supply of game balls to the ball supply mechanism (not shown) for supplying game balls to the prize ball payout device 50 is stopped or whether or not the game balls are clogged (step S5). . In this error management process, it is also determined whether or not an abnormality has occurred inside the ball game machine 1.
Next, a winning ball management process for confirming winning information and creating command signal data for winning balls (winning) at the winning holes (first and second special symbol starting openings 18, 29 and large winning opening 20) is performed. Performed (step S6). In the winning ball management process, command signal data for instructing the winning ball payout device 50 about the number of payouts is created based on the number of payouts of the winning ports 18, 29, and 20.

  Next, normal symbol management processing is performed (step S7). In this normal symbol management process, a normal symbol determination process (equivalent to the above-described normal symbol lottery) for determining whether or not to expand the electric tulip accessory 19 as the game ball passes through the normal symbol gate 17 is performed. Executed. More specifically, the value of the normal symbol determining random number obtained from the normal symbol determining random number counter (not shown) updated by the timer interrupt random number management process in step S4 is compared with the numerical value per normal symbol.

  Then, in the normal symbol determination process, when the value of the random number for determining the normal symbol matches the numerical value per normal symbol, a process for expanding the electric tulip accessory 19 (see FIG. 4) is executed, and thereafter Then, the ordinary electric accessory management process for realizing the expanding operation of the electric tulip accessory 19 is executed (step S8). Next, in the normal electric accessory management process, the expanding operation of the electric tulip accessory 19 is executed. The execution time of the expansion operation of the electric tulip accessory 19 is measured by a normal electric accessory timer (not shown) composed of a subtraction timer, and this expansion operation is performed until the value of the normal electric accessory timer becomes zero. Execution continues.

Next, a first special symbol management process is performed (step S9). In the first special symbol management process, a series of lottery processes associated with entering the first special symbol start port 18 (see FIG. 4) are executed.
After the completion of the first special symbol management process in step S9, a second special symbol management process is then performed (step S10). In the second special symbol management process, a series of lottery processes associated with entering the first special symbol start port 18 (see FIG. 4) are executed.

If it is determined that a big hit is made in the big hit determination random number determination process included in the first or second special symbol management process, then the opening operation of the big prize opening 20 (see FIG. 4) (big prize opening opening / closing plate) 21 (see FIG. 4) (opening / closing operation) is executed, and thereafter, the processing for realizing the opening operation of the special winning opening 20 is executed (S11: special electric accessory management processing).
Next, a lamp management process for causing a predetermined lamp (game lamp 27, etc.) managed by the main control board 30 to perform a lighting operation or a light-off operation is executed (step S12).

Next, a solenoid management process for managing the special prize opening / closing mechanism 42 (see FIG. 5), each comprising a solenoid, is executed (step S13).
Next, after returning the CPU 30A to the interrupt permission state (step S14), the timer interrupt process is ended. As a result, the routine of the timer interrupt process is exited, and an infinite loop main process (system reset process) is executed. In this main process, confirmation of voltage abnormality monitoring and monitoring of the presence or absence of timer interrupt processing is performed.

Next, the normal symbol management process in step S7 of FIG. 7 and the ordinary electric accessory management process in step S8 will be described more specifically.
The RAM 30B is provided with a normal symbol storage area (not shown). The normal symbol hold storage area can store, for example, up to five random numbers for normal symbol determination. Specifically, in the normal symbol holding storage area, five storage areas for storing normal symbol determination random numbers are provided. These storage areas are referred to as a first area, a second area, a third area, a fourth area, and a fifth area, respectively.

  The four areas from the second area to the fifth area are areas for storing normal symbol determination random numbers for which execution is suspended. When collectively referring to the second area to the fifth area, they are referred to as “reserved data areas”. When the game ball passes through the normal symbol gate 17, a normal symbol determination random number is stored in the reserved data area in the normal symbol hold storage area. Specifically, if the second area is empty, the normal symbol determination random number is stored in the second area. If the second area is not empty and the third area is empty, the normal symbol determination random number is stored in the third area. Is stored, and if the second and third areas are not empty and the fourth area is empty, the normal symbol determination random number is stored in the fourth area, and the second to fourth areas are not empty and the fifth area is empty. If so, the normal design random number is stored in the fifth area.

The first area is an area for storing a normal symbol determining random number to be executed (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as “execution data area”).
If the normal symbol determination random number is stored in at least the second region among the second to fourth regions in the normal symbol holding storage area, the electric tulip accessory 19 is not being expanded. The stored contents of the second to fifth areas are shifted to the first to fourth areas, respectively, and the fifth area is emptied. Then, the normal symbol determination random number shifted to the first area (execution data area) is executed.

  Specifically, the normal symbol lottery is executed based on the random number value for normal symbol determination and the numerical value per normal symbol, and the symbol changing operation of the normal symbol display means 26 according to the lottery result is executed. When the normal symbol lottery is won, the electric tulip accessory 19 expands after the symbol variation operation in the normal symbol display means 26 ends. Thereby, the 2nd special symbol starting port 29 opens.

Instead of storing the normal symbol determination random number value in the normal symbol holding storage area of the RAM 30B, the normal symbol lottery result itself based on the acquired normal symbol determination random number value and the numerical value per normal symbol is stored. Also good.
FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the flow of the first special symbol management process in step S9.
In the special symbol management process, the CPU 30A first performs a first special symbol start opening check process (step S21).

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the flow of the first special symbol start port check process. Hereinafter, description will be made with reference to FIGS. 4, 5, 8, and 9.
The RAM 30B (see FIG. 5) is provided with a first reserved storage area (not shown). In the first reserved storage area, a jackpot determination random number, a special symbol random number, a first variation pattern random number, and a second variation pattern random number (the above random numbers are collectively referred to as “start-up memory”, the same applies hereinafter). For example, a maximum of 5 can be stored. Specifically, the first reserved storage area is provided with five storage areas for storing start-up memory. These storage areas are referred to as a first area, a second area, a third area, a fourth area, and a fifth area, respectively.

  The four areas from the second area to the fifth area are areas for storing start-up memory whose execution is suspended. When collectively referring to the second area to the fifth area, they are referred to as “reserved data areas”. When a game ball enters the first special symbol start port 18, the start memory is stored in the reserved data area in the first reserved memory area. Specifically, if the second area is empty, the start memory is stored in the second area, and if the second area is not empty and the third area is empty, the start memory is stored in the third area. If the third area is not empty and the fourth area is empty, the start memory is stored in the fourth area, and if the second to fourth areas are not empty and the fifth area is empty, the start memory is stored in the fifth area. Is memorized.

  The number of start memories stored in the reserved data area (second to fifth areas) in the first hold storage area (the number of start memories held) is the first special symbol hold provided in the RAM 30B. It is stored in a ball counter (not shown). The first area is an area for storing start-up memory to be executed (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as “execution data area”). When the start-up storage stored in the second area is executed, the storage contents of the second to fifth areas are shifted to the first to fourth areas, respectively, and the fifth area is emptied. Then, the start-up storage shifted to the first area (execution data area) is executed.

  The RAM 30B (see FIG. 5) is provided with a second reserved storage area (not shown). In the second reserved storage area, a jackpot determination random number, a special symbol random number, a first variation pattern random number, and a second variation pattern random number (the above random numbers are collectively referred to as “start-up memory”, the same applies hereinafter). For example, a maximum of 5 can be stored. Specifically, the second reserved storage area is provided with five storage areas for storing start-up memories. These storage areas are referred to as a first area, a second area, a third area, a fourth area, and a fifth area, respectively.

  The four areas from the second area to the fifth area are areas for storing start-up memory whose execution is suspended. When a game ball enters the second special symbol starting port 29, the starting memory is stored in the reserved data area in the second reserved memory area. Specifically, if the second area is empty, the start memory is stored in the second area, and if the second area is not empty and the third area is empty, the start memory is stored in the third area. If the third area is not empty and the fourth area is empty, the start memory is stored in the fourth area, and if the second to fourth areas are not empty and the fifth area is empty, the start memory is stored in the fifth area. Is memorized.

  The number of start memories stored in the reserved data area (second to fifth areas) in the second reserved storage area (the number of start memories held) is the second special symbol hold provided in the RAM 30B. It is stored in a ball counter (not shown). The first area is an area for storing start-up memory to be executed (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as “execution data area”). When the start-up storage stored in the second area is executed, the storage contents of the second to fifth areas are shifted to the first to fourth areas, respectively, and the fifth area is emptied. Then, the start-up storage shifted to the first area (execution data area) is executed.

  In FIG. 9, it is determined whether or not a game ball has entered (wins) the first special symbol start port 18 (step S31). This determination is performed based on the detection output of the first special symbol start-up entrance sensor 36. If it is determined that a game ball has entered the first special symbol start port 18 (YES in step S31), the value of the first special symbol reserved ball number counter (first special symbol reserved ball number) is a predetermined value. It is determined whether or not the reserved ball number upper limit value (first special symbol reserved ball number MAX. For example, 4) has been reached (step S32).

If the value of the first special symbol reserved ball number counter has not reached the upper limit value of the reserved ball number (special symbol reserved ball number MAX) (NO in step S32), that is, the value of the first special symbol reserved ball number counter Is 3 or less, the value of the first special symbol reserved ball number counter is incremented (+1) by 1 (step S33).
Further, the start memory (random number) is acquired and stored in the reserved data area in the first reserved storage area (step S34). Specifically, the CPU 30A obtains a jackpot determination random number from a jackpot determination random number counter (not shown), acquires a special symbol random number from a special symbol random counter (not shown), The special symbol random number is stored in the reserved data area in the first reserved storage area. Further, the CPU 30A obtains a first variation pattern random number from a first variation pattern random number counter (not shown), obtains a second variation pattern random number from a second variation pattern random number counter (not shown), The random numbers for the first and second variation patterns are stored in the reserved data area in the first reserved storage area. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S22 in FIG.

Instead of storing the jackpot determination random number in the first reserved storage area, the result of the jackpot lottery by comparing the acquired jackpot determination random number with a predetermined jackpot value may be stored.
If it is not determined in step S31 that a game ball has entered the first special symbol start opening 18 (NO in step S31), or in step S32, the value of the first special symbol reserved ball number counter is the retained ball number upper limit value. If it is determined that (the number of reserved balls MAX) has been reached (YES in step S32), the process directly proceeds to step S22 in FIG.

Returning to FIG. 8, in step S22, the CPU 30A refers to the value of the small hitting hitting flag (not shown) provided in the RAM 30B to check whether or not the ball game machine 1 is in the small hitting game. .
In this ball game machine 1, when the small hit game is executed, the flag value of the small hit medium flag (2-byte configuration) is set to, for example, “5A [H]”, and the small hit game is not executed. In some cases, the flag value of the small hitting / measuring flag is set to, for example, “00 [H]”.

In step S23, the CPU 30A refers to the value of the big hit flag (not shown) provided in the RAM 30B to check whether or not the ball game machine 1 is in the special profit state.
In the ball game machine 1, when the special profit state is being executed, the flag value of the big hit flag (2-byte configuration) is set to, for example, “5A [H]”, and when the special profit state is not being executed. The flag value of the big hit flag is set to, for example, “00 [H]”.

When the ball game machine 1 is executing the small hit game or the special profit state (YES in step S22 or S23), the process proceeds to step S29. In step S29, the update process of the 1st special symbol display data used for the display of the 1st special symbol display means 22 is performed. And it transfers to step S10 of FIG.
On the other hand, when the ball game machine 1 is not executing the small hit game and is not executing the special profit state (NO in steps S22 and S23), the first special symbol operation status is determined. When the value of the first special symbol movement status is a value (for example, “00 [H]” or “01 [H]”) indicating that the first special symbol movement operation is stopped (in step S24). YES), CPU 30A executes the first special symbol variation start process (step S26).

  In the first special symbol variation starting ball process in step S26, it is determined whether or not the value of the first special symbol retention ball number counter (not shown) is zero, and the value of the first special symbol retention ball number counter is zero. If there is, it is determined whether or not the value of the first special symbol reserved ball number counter is zero. When the value of the first special symbol reserved ball number counter is zero, the value of the first special symbol operation status is set to “00 [H]”. And after the update process of the 1st special symbol display data of step S29 is performed, it transfers to step S10 of FIG.

  When the value of the first special symbol reserved ball number counter is not zero (when it is 1 or more), a process for starting the fluctuation operation of the first special symbol is executed. That is, the value of the first special symbol reserved ball number counter is decremented by 1 (-1), and the contents of the reserved data area (second area to fifth area) in the first reserved storage area are respectively 2 Shifted from the first area to the fourth area of the reserved storage area. As a result, the start-up memory stored in the second area in the first reserved storage area is stored in the execution data area (first area). Thereafter, the contents of the fifth area in the first reserved storage area are emptied.

Then, whether or not the special profit state is executed is determined by comparing the value of the jackpot determination random number included in the start memory stored in the execution data area in the first reserved storage area with the jackpot value. Is judged (big hit judgment).
On the other hand, when the value of the first special symbol reserved ball number counter (not shown) is zero and the value of the first special symbol reserved ball number counter is not zero (when it is 1 or more), the first special symbol change Processing for starting the operation is executed. That is, the value of the first special symbol reserved ball number counter is decremented by 1 (-1), and the contents of the reserved data area (second area to fifth area) in the first reserved storage area are respectively Shifted from the first area to the fourth area of one reserved storage area. As a result, the start-up memory stored in the second area in the first reserved storage area is stored in the execution data area (first area). Thereafter, the contents of the fifth area in the first reserved storage area are emptied.

Then, whether or not the special profit state is executed is determined by comparing the value of the jackpot determination random number included in the start memory stored in the execution data area in the first reserved storage area with the jackpot value. Is judged (big hit judgment).
When the big hit determination is made, the first special symbol display means 22 is stopped and displayed after the first special symbol change operation based on the result of the big hit determination and the value of the first special symbol random number included in the start memory. The first special symbol to be determined is determined. In addition, based on the result of the big hit determination and the random number values for the first and second variation patterns included in the start-up memory, a variation pattern that is an aspect of the variation operation of the effect symbol in the liquid crystal display unit 15 is determined. The variation pattern determined on the main control board 30 is given to the effect control board 31 via a variation pattern command signal. Thereby, in the liquid crystal display unit 15, the changing operation of the effect symbol is started.

  Further, the variation time is set in a first special symbol operation timer (not shown) for measuring the variation time of the first special symbol. The first special symbol operation timer is a subtraction type timer. Further, the value of the first special symbol movement status is set to a value (for example, “02 [H]”) indicating that the first special symbol movement operation has been started. The process proceeds to step S29, the first special symbol display data update process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S10 in FIG.

  In step S24, it is determined that the value of the first special symbol movement status is not a value indicating that the first special symbol movement operation is stopped (for example, “00 [H]” or “01 [H]”). In this case (NO in step S24), it is determined whether or not the value of the first special symbol movement status is a value (for example, “02 [H]”) indicating that the first special symbol movement operation has started. (Step S25).

When it is determined that the value of the first special symbol movement status is a value (for example, “02 [H]”) indicating that the first special symbol movement operation has been started (YES in step S25), CPU 30A. Executes the first special symbol variation processing (step S27).
In the first special symbol changing process, it is monitored whether or not the value of the first special symbol operation timer becomes zero. When the value of the first special symbol operation timer becomes zero, a process for stopping the first special symbol operation is executed and a predetermined time (for example, 500 msec) is set in the first special symbol operation timer. Further, the value of the first special symbol movement status is set to a value (for example, “03 [H]”) indicating that the first special symbol movement operation is to be stopped. When the first special symbol changing process is completed, the process proceeds to step S29, and the first special symbol display data update process is executed. And it transfers to step S10 of FIG.

  If it is determined in step S25 that the value of the first special symbol movement status is not a value indicating that the first special symbol movement operation has been started (for example, “02 [H]”) (NO in step S25) ), The CPU 30A has a value indicating that the value of the first special symbol movement status is in a state in which the first special symbol variation operation should be stopped in the first special symbol variation processing (for example, “03 [H]”). And the process during the first special symbol confirmation time is executed (step S28).

  In the process during the first special symbol confirmation time, it is monitored whether or not the value of the first special symbol operation timer has become zero. Then, when the value of the first special symbol operation timer becomes zero, processing such as setting the value of the first special symbol operation status to “01 [H]” is performed. When the result of the big hit determination is a big hit, the value of the aforementioned big hit flag is set to “5A [H]”. When the process during the first special symbol confirmation time ends, the process proceeds to step S29, and the update process of the first special symbol display data is executed. And it transfers to step S10 of FIG. In the first special symbol confirmation time process, when the value of the big hit flag is set to “5A [H]”, the special electric utility management process in step S10 of FIG. 7 realizes the special profit state. Processing for this is executed.

Returning to FIG. 7, the second special symbol management process shown in step S10 is a process equivalent to the first special symbol management process (see FIG. 8) in step S9. In the second special symbol management process, in the above description of the first special symbol management process, the process of the content in which the first special symbol and the second special symbol are exchanged is executed (in parentheses in FIGS. 8 and 9). ).
In the special electric accessory management process shown in step S11 of FIG. 7, whether the opening operation of the current prize opening opening / closing plate 21 (see FIG. 4) corresponds to a special profit state or a small hit game. Be examined. Then, when the opening operation of the current winning prize opening / closing plate 21 (see FIG. 4) corresponds to the small hit game, the small hit game is executed, and then the special electric accessory management process is returned.

On the other hand, when the value of the big hit flag mentioned above is “5A [H]”, in order to execute the special profit state, the value of the special electric accessory operation status (not shown) is then examined.
The special electric accessory operating status indicates, for example, 00 [H], 01 [H], 02 [H], 03 [H], 04 [H] and 05 [H], and the progress degree of the special profit state is As it progresses, its value increases. When the content of the special electric accessory operating status is, for example, 00 [H], processing for starting the special profit state (big hit start processing) such as execution of fanfare or the like is executed. When the content of the special electric accessory operation status is 01 [H], a process for starting the opening operation of the special prize opening opening / closing plate 21 (see FIG. 4) (special electric accessory operation starting process) is executed. The Further, when the content of the operation status of the special electric accessory is 02 [H] or 03 [H], the process of opening the special winning opening opening / closing plate 21 (see FIG. 4) (the process during the operation of the special electric accessory) is performed. Executed. Also, if the content of the special electric accessory operation status is 04 [H], for example, a determination process for determining whether or not to continue the opening / closing operation of the special prize opening opening / closing plate 21 (see FIG. 4) (continuation of the special electric accessory operation) Determination process) is executed. In addition, when the content of the special electric accessory operating status is, for example, 05 [H], a process for ending the special profit state (a jackpot ending process) is executed. And it transfers to step S12 of FIG.

FIG. 10A is a diagram showing the flow of effects displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 15. 10B to 10E are diagrams showing images displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 15 in association with the button effect mode.
The effect symbols displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 15 during the symbol changing operation of the first or second special symbol display means 22, 23 will be described with reference to FIGS. 10A and 10B together.

  As shown in FIG. 10B, in the display screen of the liquid crystal display unit 15, for example, three symbol display positions 15L, 15C, and 15R are set side by side. During the symbol changing operation of the first or second special symbol display means 22, 23, a plurality of types of effect symbols (numbers (eg, “0” to “9”) are displayed at the three symbol display positions 15L, 15C, 15R. Is scrolled from above to below, for example, thereby changing the effect of the effect symbol.

  As shown in FIG. 10A, the variation operation of the effect design includes a first variation operation, a second variation operation, and a third variation operation. The first variation operation is a variation operation in which an effect symbol for shifting is displayed at the three symbol display positions 15L, 15C, and 15R without going through a so-called reach state. The reach state means that when the effect symbol stops in the order of, for example, the left symbol display position 15L, the right symbol display position 15R, and the central symbol display position, it stops at the two symbol display positions 15L and 15R on the left and right sides. It means a state in which the combination of symbols is a combination that may be a big hit (for example, the same symbol combination).

The second and third fluctuating operations are fluctuating operations in which, after passing through the reach state, a jackpot effect symbol or a loss effect effect symbol is displayed at the three symbol display positions 15L, 15C, and 15R.
More specifically, the second variation operation is a variation operation in which, after passing through the normal reach NR, an effect symbol for big hit or an effect symbol for deviation is displayed at the three symbol display positions 15L, 15C, 15R. The normal reach NR is, for example, a reach that stops after the effect symbol (final stop symbol) at the remaining one symbol display position (for example, 15C) slowly fluctuates at a substantially constant speed.

The third variation operation is a variation operation in which, after passing through the normal reach NR and the super reach SR in order, the effect symbol for big hit or the effect symbol for deviation is displayed at the three symbol display positions 15L, 15C, 15R.
The first to third variable operations include a variable operation in which the notice effect PN is executed and a variable operation in which the notice effect is not executed. When the notice effect PN is performed, the notice effect PN is executed, for example, before the reach state is established in the first to third fluctuation operations. FIG. 10A shows an example in which the notice effect PN is executed in the third variation operation.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the flow of effect lottery processing executed on the effect control board 31. FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the flow of the button effect mode included in the effect lottery process.
With reference to FIG. 5, FIG. 6, FIG. 10B to FIG. 10E, FIG. 11 and FIG. 12, the flow of the effect lottery process, particularly the button effect mode will be described.

  As shown in FIG. 11, when a predetermined variation pattern command signal from the main control substrate 30, for example, a variation pattern command signal for executing a predetermined super reach, is input to the effect control substrate 31, the CPU 31 </ b> A An effect type lottery is executed (step S101). When the button effect mode is selected in the effect type lottery (button effect mode win. YES in step S102), the CPU 31A proceeds to step S103 to execute the button effect process. On the other hand, when an effect mode other than the button effect mode is selected (NO in step S102), CPU 31A executes an effect process corresponding thereto (step S105).

  Hereinafter, a case where the button effect mode is selected in the effect type lottery will be described. In step S103, a preset button effect mode period (for example, 30.0 (sec)) is set in the remaining period timer 49 (step S103). Thereafter, button effect processing is executed (step S104). In synchronization with the start of the button effect process, the time measurement by the remaining period timer 49, that is, subtraction of the remaining period timer 49 is started.

  As shown in FIG. 10B, immediately before the button effect process is executed, an image indicating the reach state of the effect symbol is displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 15, for example. Prior to the start of the execution of the button effect process, the display of the liquid crystal display unit 15 enters the effect (in this embodiment, the track-out effect) in the button effect mode from the image (see FIG. 10B) showing the reach state of the effect symbol. The button effect mode notice image (not shown) for notifying the effect is switched.

  As shown in FIG. 10C, when the button effect process is started, a button effect mode start image (see FIG. 10C) for notifying the player of the start of the button effect mode is displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 15. In FIG. 10C, only the button effect mode start image is shown on the screen of the liquid crystal display unit 15, but the button effect mode start image may be displayed together with an image showing the changing operation of the effect symbol. Good.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 10D, a button effect mode in-progress image (see FIG. 10D) for notifying the player that the button effect mode is in effect is displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 15 as a background image. In this button effect mode image, a track-out effect is performed such that the character 56 (pitcher) punches, for example, a total of nine panels of the 3 × 3 arrangement of the panel frame display unit 55 by pitching. The button effect mode image may include a message or an image prompting the user to operate the first effect button 12. In FIG. 10D, only the image during the button effect mode is shown on the screen of the liquid crystal display unit 15. However, even when the image indicating the changing operation of the effect symbol is displayed together with the image during the button effect mode. Good.

As shown in FIG. 12, in the button effect process, first, the CPU 31A transmits effect information for displaying the button effect mode start image (see FIG. 10C) on the liquid crystal display unit 15 to the liquid crystal display control board 34 (see FIG. 12). Step S111). Thereby, the button effect mode start image is displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 15.
Thereafter, the CPU 31A transmits, to the liquid crystal display control board 34, effect information for causing the liquid crystal display unit 15 to display the button effect mode image (see FIG. 10D) as a background image over the entire period of the button effect mode. (Step S112). Thus, the button effect mode image is displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 15 as a background image.

Next, the CPU 31A determines whether or not the button effect mode period has ended (step S113). This determination is performed based on whether or not the value of the remaining period timer 49 is zero.
When it is determined that the button effect mode period has not ended (when the value of the remaining period timer 49 is not zero) (NO in step S113), the CPU 31A determines whether or not the second effect button 13 has been operated. A determination is made (step S114).

  The determination as to whether or not the second effect button 13 has been operated is performed based on the output signal of the second effect button 13. For example, the output signal of the second effect button 13 is always at the L level, and is set to the H level when the second effect button 13 is pressed. In step S115, for example, the CPU 31A determines whether or not the output signal of the second effect button 13 is at the H level. If the output signal of the second effect button 13 is at the H level, the second effect button 13 is It is determined that it has been operated (the operation of the second effect button 13 has been accepted). For example, if the processing after step S113 in FIG. 12 is executed every 2 (msec) calculation cycles in the button effect mode, the output signal of the second effect button 13 is H (over 10 (msec)). It may be determined that the second effect button 13 has been operated while maintaining the level.

When it is determined that the second effect button 13 has been operated (YES in step S114), the CPU 31A then refers to the value of a reset number counter (not shown) for counting the number of resets, and the button effect mode. The number of operations (the number of resets) of the second effect button 13 is checked (step S115).
When it is determined that the second effect button 13 has been operated, and the operation of the second effect button 13 in the button effect mode is an operation within the second time (YES in step S115), the effect operation in the button effect mode is performed. Reset. Specifically, the CPU 31A clears the value of the progress degree storage unit 46 to zero and clears the value of the reception prohibition period clock timer 48 (step 116), and the CPU 31A sets the remaining period timer 49 to 30.0 (sec). The value is set again (step 117), and the value of a reset number counter (not shown) for counting the number of resets is incremented (+1) (step 118). Further, the CPU 31A transmits a signal for restarting (initializing) the button effect mode image (see FIG. 10D) to the liquid crystal display control board 34 (step S119). Thereby, in the liquid crystal display unit 15, the display from the first screen of the button effect mode image is executed.

  When it is determined in step S114 that the second effect button 13 has not been operated (NO in step S114), the CPU 31A then determines whether or not the value of the reception prohibition period timing timer 48 is zero. (Step S120). The initial value of the reception prohibition period clock timer 48 is set to a predetermined value (for example, 2.0 (sec)). The reception prohibition period timing timer 48 starts counting the first reception prohibition period when the first effect button is operated in step S121 described below, and when the first reception prohibition period elapses, the reception prohibition period timing timer 48 The value of becomes zero. When the value of the reception prohibition period clock timer 48 is reached, the reception prohibition period clock timer 48 holds a zero value until the first reception prohibition period is set thereafter.

In step S120, when the value of the reception prohibition period clock timer 48 is not zero (NO in step S120), the CPU 31A is in a state where reception of the operation of the first effect button 12 is prohibited (first reception prohibited state). It returns to step S113. However, the operation of the second effect button 13 is permitted even in the first reception prohibition state.
On the other hand, when the value of the reception prohibition period clock timer 48 is zero (YES in step S120), the CPU 31A determines that reception of the operation of the first effect button 12 is permitted. Of course, in this state, not only the operation of the first effect button 12 but also the operation of the second effect button 13 are permitted. And CPU31A discriminate | determines whether the 1st production button 12 was operated (step S121).

  The determination as to whether or not the first effect button 12 has been operated is performed based on the output signal of the first effect button 12. The output signal of the first effect button 12 is, for example, always at the L level, and becomes the H level when the first effect button 12 is pressed. In step S115, for example, CPU 31A determines whether or not the output signal of first effect button 12 is at an H level. If the output signal of first effect button 12 is at an H level, first effect button 12 is It is determined that an operation has been performed (operation of the first effect button 12 has been accepted). For example, if the processing after step S113 in FIG. 12 is executed every 2.0 (msec) calculation period in the button effect mode, the output signal of the first effect button 12 is H (over 10.0 (msec)) or more. When the level is maintained, it may be determined that the first effect button 12 has been operated.

  If it is determined in step S121 that the first effect button 12 has not been operated (NO in step S121), the CPU 31A returns to step S113. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S121 that the first effect button 12 has been operated (YES in step S121), the CPU 31A executes button lottery (step S122). Specifically, the CPU 31A acquires a button lottery random number from the button lottery random number counter 47, and compares the acquired button lottery random number with the winning numerical value stored in the button lottery table 45. If both match, the CPU 31A determines that the button lottery has been won, and if both do not match, determines that the button lottery has been lost.

  If it is determined that the button lottery is won (YES in step S123), the CPU 31A determines the content of the effect as “winning effect” (step S124). Further, the CPU 31A increments (+1) the progress value stored in the progress storage unit 46 in the memory 31B by 1 (step S125). At the start of the button effect process, the progress value in the progress storage unit 46 is set to zero.

Next, the CPU 31A refers to the progress value (step S126).
When the progress value in the progress degree storage unit 46 shifts from “0” to “1”, the panel frame display unit 55 produces an effect in which one panel is removed from a state in which no panel is removed. Executed. Further, when the progress value in the progress degree storage unit 46 shifts from “1” to “2”, one panel is removed from the state where one or more panels are removed in the panel frame display unit 55, As a result, when the remaining one panel is pulled out, an effect is achieved in which a reach in which any one of the vertical, horizontal, and diagonal columns is aligned is established. When the progress value in the progress degree storage unit 46 shifts from “2” to “3”, the remaining one panel is removed from the state where the reach is established in the panel frame display unit 55, and as a result The production is executed such that a “bingo” in which any one of the vertical, horizontal, and diagonal rows is arranged is established.

  When it is determined in step S126 that the progress value has reached “3” (YES in step S126), the CPU 31A executes the “winning effect” corresponding thereto, information indicating the “winning effect”, and The effect information including the progress value (in this case, “3”) in the progress degree storage unit 46 is transmitted to the liquid crystal display control board 34 (step 129). Then, the CPU 31A ends the button effect process.

  Thereafter, the CPU 31A causes the liquid crystal display unit 15 to execute a “special effect” (see FIG. 10E. A jackpot establishment effect). After the “special effect” is executed, the special profit state is executed. On the other hand, when the progress value has not reached “3” in step S126 (NO in step S126), the CPU 31A displays information indicating “winning effect” in order to execute the “winning effect” accordingly. The effect information including the progress value (in this case, the value “1” or “2”) in the progress degree storage unit 46 is transmitted to the liquid crystal display control board 34 (step 127).

  On the other hand, as a result of the button lottery in step S122, if the button lottery is lost (NO in step S122), the CPU 31A determines the production content to be “out of phase production” (step S130). Then, in order to execute the “out of effect”, the CPU 31A transmits to the liquid crystal display control board 34 the information indicating the “out of effect” and the effect information including the progress value in the progress degree storage unit 46 (step 131). ).

  As a result, the “offset effect” is executed by the liquid crystal display control board 34. In this embodiment, the “outlier effect” varies depending on the progress level value in the progress level storage unit 46. The “outlier effect” when the progress value is “0” is such an effect that the ball thrown by the character 56 passes through the side or upper and lower sides of the panel frame display unit 55 in the panel frame display unit 55. is there. When the progress value is “1”, the “offset effect” indicates that the ball thrown by the character 56 passes through the side or upper and lower sides of the panel frame display unit 55 or “ It is an effect that a panel unrelated to the establishment of “reach” is pulled out. When the progress value is “2”, the “offset effect” indicates that the sphere thrown by the character 56 passes through the side or upper and lower sides of the panel frame display unit 55 or “ It is an effect that a panel unrelated to the establishment of “Bingo” is pulled out.

  When it is determined in step S113 that the button effect mode period has ended (when the value of the remaining period timer 49 is zero) (YES in step S113), the CPU 31A confirms that the button effect mode period has ended. The information shown (production mode period end information) is transmitted to the liquid crystal display control board 34 (step S133). Then, the CPU 31A ends the button effect process.

When the effect mode period end information is transmitted to the liquid crystal display control board 34 in step S133, the liquid crystal display control board 34 erases the button effect mode in-progress image (see FIG. 10D), and then the combination of the effect of reaching out of reach. Is displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 15.
FIG. 13 is a timing chart showing a series of flows during the button effect mode.
When the button effect mode is started, first, an image (not shown) for notifying execution of the track out effect is displayed, and then an image during the button effect mode (see FIG. 10D) is displayed. This button effect mode image is displayed over the button effect mode period (until the button effect process ends).

  As described above, in the button effect mode, in principle, the acceptance of the operation of the first effect button 12 and the second effect button 13 is permitted. However, once the operation of the first effect button 12 is accepted in the button effect mode, the operation of the first effect button 12 is prohibited from being accepted immediately after that. When a predetermined time (for example, 2.0 (sec)) has elapsed since the reception of the operation of the first effect button 12, the operation is returned to the state where the reception of the operation of the first effect button 12 and the second effect button 13 is permitted. When the first effect button 12 is operated in a state where the acceptance of the operation of the first effect button 12 is permitted, a button lottery is executed.

  In the button effect mode, the reception of the operation of the second effect button 13 is permitted immediately after the start of the button effect mode. When the second effect button 13 is operated, The production operation is reset. In the button effect mode, after the effect operation based on the operation of the second effect button 13 is reset twice, the reception of the operation of the second effect button 13 is prohibited.

  As a result of the effect operation resetting, the value of the progress degree storage unit 46 is cleared to zero, and the value of the remaining period timer 49 for managing the button effect mode period is set to 30.0 (sec) again. That is, the time measurement by the remaining period timer 49 is restarted from the beginning. Therefore, the button effect mode period length can be extended from the initially set button effect mode period length. Specifically, the initial button effect mode period length is set to 30.0 (sec), but the above-described effect operation reset operation by the operation of the second effect button 13 is allowed up to twice. Therefore, it is possible to extend the button production mode period length to a maximum of 90.0 (sec).

  Referring to FIG. 13D together with FIG. 10D, in the first performance operation, when the sixth pitching operation by the character 56 is completed (when the operation of the first performance button 12 is accepted six times). Suppose that the player who gave up the transition to the “special effect” operates the second effect button 13. In this case, the first performance operation is ended, and the second performance operation is started. Also, in the second performance operation, when the eighth pitching operation by the character 56 is finished (when the operation of the first performance button 12 is accepted eight times), the transition to the “special performance” is given up. When the player operates the second effect button 13, the second effect operation is started. In the third effect operation, the 12th ball throwing operation ends before 30.0 (sec) has elapsed from the start of the effect operation, and the button effect mode ends.

As described above, according to this embodiment, when the second effect button 13 is operated in the button effect mode, the remaining button effect mode period is extended. Accordingly, the operation of the second effect button 13 can extend the entire period length of the button effect mode.
Further, when the second effect button 13 is operated in the button effect mode, not only the remaining button effect mode period is extended, but also the content stored in the progress degree storage unit 46 is cleared, and as a result, the effect operation being executed Is reset. Accordingly, the operation of the second effect button 13 in the button effect mode can be simultaneously performed to reset the effect operation being executed and to extend the overall length of the button effect mode.

FIG. 14 is a timing chart showing a series of flows during the button effect mode according to another embodiment of the present invention.
The embodiment shown in FIG. 14 is different from the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 to 13 in that not only the production operation is reset when the second production button 13 is operated, but also the second production button 13 The point is that a reception prohibition period in which both the reception of the operation of the first effect button 12 and the reception of the operation of the second effect button 13 is prohibited is triggered by the operation. In other words, the both reception prohibition period is a period in which the first reception prohibition period and the second reception prohibition period overlap. The length of the both-reception prohibition period is set to be constant (for example, 10.0 (sec), second time).

  Referring to FIG. 14 together with FIG. 10D, in the first performance operation, when the sixth pitching operation by the character 56 is completed (when the operation of the first performance button 12 is accepted six times). Suppose that the player who gave up the transition to the “special effect” operates the second effect button 13. It is assumed that the operation timing of the second effect button 13 is the time when 20.0 (sec) of the button effect mode has elapsed.

  By the operation of the second effect button 13, the first effect operation is ended and the second effect operation is started. Further, by the operation of the second effect button 13, the processes of steps S116 to S119 of FIG. 12 are executed, and the effect operation is reset. Further, when the operation of the second effect button 13 is accepted, the state where both the acceptance of the operation of the first effect button 12 and the acceptance of the operation of the second effect button 13 are prohibited immediately after that (a state where both are prohibited). Is done. Such a two-sided prohibition state continues until 30.0 (sec) has elapsed in the button effect mode.

  In the both-reception prohibition period, a standby effect is performed in the liquid crystal display unit 15 over the entire period. As an example of the standby effect, a video (for example, a length of 2.5 (sec)) in which the character 56 is performing a warm-up operation before a pitch is repeatedly played. Note that the length of the both-reception prohibition period is set to, for example, a natural number times the length of a single video for which a warm-up operation is performed. For this reason, it is possible to avoid the situation of shifting to the next button effect board in the middle of such an image.

  In the embodiment shown in FIG. 14, the display content of the liquid crystal display unit 15 in the both-prohibition period is different from the display content in the other button effect modes, so that the player has the impression that the button effect mode is interrupted. . For this reason, the button effect mode that is executed after the both-reception prohibition period elapses is recognized as the “added new button effect mode”. In other words, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 14, the button effect mode period is newly added by operating the second effect button 13 in the button effect mode.

As described above, according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 14, when the second effect button 13 is operated in the button effect mode, the button effect mode period is newly added. Therefore, the operation of the second effect button 13 can extend the entire period length of the button effect mode.
When the second effect button 13 is operated in the button effect mode, not only the button effect mode period is newly added, but also the content stored in the progress degree storage unit 46 is cleared, and as a result, the effect operation being executed Is reset. Accordingly, the operation of the second effect button 13 in the button effect mode can be simultaneously performed to reset the effect operation being executed and to extend the overall length of the button effect mode.

In addition, a standby effect is performed on the liquid crystal display unit 15 during the both-reception prohibition period. Thereby, the front and rear button effect modes can be connected without a sense of incongruity.
In addition, since the both-reception prohibition period is set to a certain period (for example, 10.0 (sec)), it is sufficient to prepare a small number of types of patterns as standby production patterns. Therefore, the production volume can be suppressed. In addition, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 14, the effect image of the standby effect is composed of a repeated image of one pattern image, so that the effect volume can be suppressed more effectively.

Although two embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention can be implemented in other forms.
For example, by simultaneously operating both the first and second effect buttons 12 and 13 during the button effect mode (by pressing the first effect button 12 while the second effect button 13 is pressed), the button effect is generated. It may be possible to leave (cancel) from the mode.

  Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, in the button effect mode, it has been described that the reception of the operation of the second effect button 13 is permitted from the beginning, but immediately after the start of the button effect mode, In this state, reception of the operation of the second effect button 13 is prohibited, and after a predetermined condition is satisfied, the reception of the operation of the second effect button 13 may be permitted. Specifically, the acceptance of the operation of the second effect button 13 may be permitted on the condition that a predetermined time (for example, 15.0 (sec)) has elapsed after the start of the button effect mode, or after the start of the button effect mode. The acceptance of the operation of the second effect button 13 may be permitted on condition that the first effect button 12 has been operated a predetermined number of times.

  Further, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 14, the end timing of the both reception prohibition period (that is, the execution end timing of the standby effect) is a timing at which a predetermined period (for example, 10.0 (sec)) has elapsed from the start of the both reception prohibition period. However, the end timing of the both reception prohibition period (that is, the end timing of execution of the standby effect) may be set to a timing when a predetermined period has elapsed from the start of the button effect mode.

  In this case, it is desirable that the length of the two-side reception prohibition period is 30.0 (sec). As described above, the duration of one button effect mode is set to 30.0 (sec). Therefore, in this case, the length of the whole period of the button effect mode can be set to a natural number multiple of 30.0 (sec). Therefore, when setting the length of the special symbol variation pattern to 30.0 (sec) or a natural fraction of 30.0 (sec), the total duration of the button effect mode is set to the special symbol variation pattern. It is possible to make it easy to cope with the above.

  Further, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 14, the standby effect may be performed only for a part of the both-reception prohibited period instead of performing the standby effect over the entire period of the both-reception prohibited period. Specifically, only the sound effect indicating the reset acceptance is output at the timing when the second effect button 13 is operated (for example, 15.0 (sec) after the start of the button effect mode), and then the button effect mode is started. The execution of the standby effect may be started when 20.0 (sec) has elapsed.

  Further, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 14, the standby effect may not be performed in the liquid crystal display unit 15 in the both-reception prohibition period. In particular, when the effect operation executed in the button effect mode is not a long effect operation such as a track-out effect, but a short effect operation (an action in which a character (ie, execution of a standby effect) has a conversation). The standby effect can be omitted.

Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, the button lottery is performed when the operation of the first effect button 12 is accepted, and the effect content to be executed is determined based on the button lottery result, but the operation of the effect button is accepted. It is also possible to set in advance the contents of the effect to be executed when it is performed. In that case, button lottery is unnecessary.
Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, the jackpot establishment effect is given as an example of the special effect. However, for example, when the button effect mode is used as the notice effect PN (see FIG. 10A), It is also possible to adopt a notice execution.

In addition, promotion effect that promotes to probabilistic variation jackpot after jackpot is established, jackpot effect when jackpot is established, probability variation jackpot confirmation effect that determines probability variation jackpot game, high round jackpot finalization effect that determines jackpot game with many rounds, etc. Can be adopted as a special effect.
Needless to say, an addition-type timer may be employed as the reception prohibition period timing timer 48 or the remaining period timer 49.

  In addition, as an example of the first and second effect operation means, the push button type first and second effect buttons 12 and 13 are given as examples, but at least one of the first and second effect buttons 12 and 13 is used. A cross key type button may be adopted as the production button. As such a cross key type effect button, for example, a button described in JP-A-2005-78916 can be exemplified.

Moreover, as long as the 1st and 2nd production | presentation operation means can be operated from the outside, other buttons, other switches, etc. may be sufficient, for example, rotation of handle operation may be sufficient.
In addition, with respect to the variation order of the special symbols in the first and second special symbol display means 22 and 23, the variation in the order of entry in which the symbol variation operation is executed in the order of entry into the first or second special symbol start ports 18 and 29. A mode may be sufficient, and the mode of simultaneous variation in which both perform symbol variation operation independently may be sufficient.

  In the above description, the configuration in which the first and second special symbol start ports 18 and 29 are collectively arranged has been described as an example. However, the first and second special symbol start ports 18 and 29 are connected to the game board 5. You may arrange | position in the position mutually spaced apart on the top. Moreover, it is not restricted to the structure which provides two of the 1st and 2nd special symbol starting ports 18 and 29, You may provide one as the special symbol starting ports 18 and 29. FIG.

  In addition, various design changes can be made within the scope of matters described in the claims.

1 Ball game machine (game machine)
12. First effect button (first operation means)
13 Second effect button (second operation means)
31A CPU (first operation valid means, second operation valid means, mode period setting means, mode period extension means, first operation invalid means, second operation invalid means, standby display means)

Claims (2)

A first operating means and a second operating means operable by the player;
A gaming machine in which an operation means use effect mode that uses at least one operation of the first operation means and the second operation means is prepared,
A first operation valid means for validating acceptance of an operation of the first operation means in the operation means utilization effect mode;
Second operation valid means for validating acceptance of the operation of the second operation means in the operation means utilization effect mode;
Mode period setting means for setting an execution period of the operation means use effect mode;
A mode period extension means for extending the execution period when an operation of the second operation means is received;
A first operation invalidating means that does not validate the acceptance of the operation of the first operating means until a predetermined standby time elapses after the acceptance of the operation when the operation of the second operating means is accepted;
A second operation invalidating unit that does not validate the acceptance of the operation of the second operating means until a predetermined waiting time elapses after the acceptance of the operation when the operation of the second operating means is accepted;
A gaming machine characterized by comprising: The gaming machine according to claim 1, further comprising standby display means for displaying a standby display during the standby time.

Images