JP6082177B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine, and more particularly to a gaming machine capable of playing a game.

  As an example of a gaming machine, a gaming medium such as a game ball is launched into a gaming area by a launching device, and a predetermined gaming value is determined based on the winning of a gaming medium in a winning area such as a winning opening provided in the gaming area. There is a pachinko machine that can be granted. As another example of the gaming machine, after setting a predetermined number of bets for one game using a game medium such as a medal, a coin, or a game ball similar to a pachinko gaming machine, the player operates the start lever. Thus, there is a slot machine that starts variable display of display symbols by the variable display device, and can give a predetermined game value based on the derived display result. Here, the predetermined game value is given by paying out premium game media such as prize balls and medals, adding the player's score, executing a re-game without using (digesting) the game media, and a specific game state (for example, a big hit game state) This is a concept that includes a part or all of the control to the gaming state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal gaming state.

  A gaming machine that controls such a predetermined game to be executable has been proposed that captures various facial expressions of a player and uses the captured images of the facial expressions as effects (for example, Patent Document 1).

JP 2004-337230 A

  In the technique described in Patent Document 1, an effect using the captured image is performed as it is, and the aspect of the display target such as the player's facial expression cannot be changed. For this reason, the production contents are monotonous, and there is a possibility that the gaming interest will be lowered.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine capable of producing an effect in which a display target is displayed in different forms.

(1) In order to achieve the above object, the gaming machine according to the present invention is a gaming machine capable of playing a game (for example, the pachinko gaming machine 1 or the slot machine 500), and an image display means for displaying an image. (For example, image display devices 5, 510, etc.) and image data acquisition means for acquiring original image data corresponding to one facial expression indicated by the player (for example, effect control CPUs 120, 630 for executing the processing of step S182) , An image data generating means for performing a predetermined deformation process on the original image data and generating display image data corresponding to a plurality of facial expressions showing different feelings of the player (for example, an effect of executing the process of step S184) control CPU120,630, an image processing processor of the display controller 123,631) and the determination of whether it is possible to generate the display image data If results can be generated, depending on the advantage of the for the player, the image represented by the display image data, to be displayed on said image display means, when the judgment result is not be generated, the Image display control means for displaying an image different from the image represented by the display image data (for example, the effect control CPUs 120 and 630 for executing the processes of steps S505, S506, and S523, and the image processing processors of the display controllers 123 and 631) Etc.).

According to such a configuration, it is possible to produce an effect of displaying an image represented by display image data indicating different emotions of the player according to the player's advantage , and to improve the gaming interest Can do.

  It should be noted that a game value advantageous for the player (for example, a game ball as a prize) is obtained before a result of a predetermined game (for example, a special game or a decorative display variable display game, a variable display of a pattern accompanying reel rotation, etc.) is derived. Alternatively, it is determined whether or not a medal is paid out or a point to be scored is awarded, and an advantageous game (for example, a round in a big hit gaming state or a small bonus in a big bonus game) Game etc.) may be executed. Alternatively, before the result of a predetermined game (for example, a special game or a variable display game of decorative symbols) is derived, it is determined whether or not to control to a game state advantageous to the player (for example, a big hit game state). An advantageous game (for example, a round in a big hit gaming state) may be executed based on a determination result indicating that control is performed. Alternatively, based on a result of a predetermined game (for example, whether or not a game ball that has entered the variable winning device has passed a specific area), whether or not to control to a game state advantageous to the player (for example, a big hit game state) When a specific game is executed based on a determination result indicating that the game is to be controlled, the first game having a different advantage for the player (for example, a big hit with a round number of “7”) is performed as the specific game. Either a round in a gaming state) or a second game (for example, a round in a big hit gaming state in which the number of rounds is “15”) may be executed. Alternatively, whether or not to allow the generation of a predetermined winning (for example, a special bonus that becomes a big bonus or a regular bonus) before a result of a predetermined game (for example, variable display of a symbol accompanying reel rotation) is derived A determination may be made and an advantageous game (for example, an internal winning game) may be executed based on a determination result indicating that the determination is permitted. Or, when a predetermined condition is satisfied (for example, when the variable display result is “big hit”, or when a special role serving as a big bonus is won internally), for example, a game value advantageous to the player may be given. It is determined whether or not to control to an advantageous gaming state (for example, a probability change state, a replay time, an assist time, etc.) that is more advantageous to the player than the normal gaming state, such as being high, and control to the advantageous gaming state After the advantageous game state is started based on the determination result to the effect, a plurality of advantageous games (for example, a specially-designed game or a decorative symbol variable display game in the probability variation state, a variable of the symbol during the replay time or the assist time) Display or the like) may be executable. In this case, the game in the normal game state may be “predetermined game”, while the game in the advantageous game state may be “advantageous game”. In addition, a game based on the determination result indicating that the game state is not controlled to be in the advantageous game state may be referred to as “predetermined game”, while a game based on the determination result indicating that the game state is controlled in the advantageous game state may be referred to as “advantageous game”. Alternatively, after an effect of displaying an image of a predetermined display target represented by the display image data on the image display means is executed, a predetermined game (for example, a variable display game of decorative symbols in a normal effect mode) or an advantageous game (For example, a decorative display variable display game in a specific effect mode) can be executed, and advantageous games are executed at different rates depending on whether or not an effect using display image data is executed. It may be a thing.

( 2 ) In the gaming machine of ( 1), the image data generation means may generate moving image data having an original image represented by the original image data as an initial image as the display image data. (For example, effect control CPUs 120 and 630 that generate moving image data in the process of step S184, and image processing processors of display control units 123 and 631).

  According to such a structure, the effect which displays the moving image produced | generated from the original image is attained, and a game entertainment interest can be improved.

( 3 ) In the gaming machine of the above (1) or (2) , the image data acquisition means acquires the original image data from outside the gaming machine (for example, a player registration card or the original image providing server 600). May be.

  With such a configuration, the original image data used for generating the display image data can be reliably acquired.

( 4 ) In any one of the above gaming machines (1) to ( 3 ), between a telecommunication network (for example, the original image providing server 600) connected via a telecommunication network (for example, the telecommunication network 550) The image data acquisition means may acquire the original image data from the data management apparatus by the communication means (for example, in the process of step S182). Production control CPUs 120, 630, etc. that access the original image providing server 600).

  With such a configuration, the original image data used for generating the display image data can be reliably acquired.

( 5 ) In any of the above gaming machines (1) to ( 4 ), generation determination means for determining whether or not the display image data can be generated from the original image data (for example, the process of step S183 is executed) And the image display control means is based on the fact that the image generation control means determines that it cannot be generated by the generation determination means. You may make it switch to a different production (for example, production control CPU120, 630 etc. which perform processing of Step S507).

  With such a configuration, it is possible to eliminate a problem when display image data cannot be generated.

( 6 ) In any one of the above gaming machines (1) to ( 5 ), the image data acquisition unit repeatedly acquires the original image data when it is determined that the generation determination unit cannot generate the image data. You may make it perform (for example, CPU120 for presentation control etc. which perform the process of step S182 based on determination of No in step S183, etc.).

  With such a configuration, it is possible to reliably generate display image data, increase the chances that an effect of displaying an image of a predetermined display target that is different from the original image is executed, and improve the game entertainment.

( 7 ) Demo display control means for causing the image display means to display a predetermined demonstration when a game by the gaming machine is not being executed in any one of the above (1) to ( 6 ) (for example, step Effect control CPUs 120, 630, etc. that perform demonstration display effect operation control in the process of S160), and a demonstration display erase unit that erases the original image data and the display image data when the demonstration display is performed. (For example, the effect control CPUs 120 and 630 that execute the process of step S189 based on the determination of Yes according to the display of the demonstration screen in the process of step S188).

  With such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the original image or display image of the player before the change from being used when the player is changed.

( 8 ) In any one of the above gaming machines (1) to ( 7 ), an operating means (for example, a stick controller 31A or a push button 31B) that allows the player to perform an instruction operation, and a predetermined instruction to the operating means An on-operation erasing unit that erases the original image data and the display image data according to the operation (for example, based on the determination of Yes according to a predetermined operation on the stick controller 31A or the push button 31B in the process of step S188). , CPUs 120, 630 for effect control that execute the process of step S189).

  With such a configuration, the original image and the display image are erased in accordance with the player's instruction operation, and an effect according to the player's intention is made possible, thereby preventing a decrease in gaming interest.

(9) above (1) from the any one of the gaming machines out of (8), check the display control means for displaying on the image display unit the image to which you express by the display image data as the player can confirm ( For example, an effect control CPU 120 or 630 that executes the process of step S187 may be provided.

  With such a configuration, even when the effect is not executed, the display image can be confirmed, and the player's interest can be increased.

(1 0 ) In any one of the above gaming machines (1) to ( 9 ), the image display control means includes operating means (for example, a stick controller 31A, a push button 31B, etc.) that allows the player to perform an instruction operation. May change the image to be displayed in response to an instruction operation on the operation means (for example, for effect control that performs display operation control according to a predetermined operation on the stick controller 31A or the push button 31B in the process of step S523). CPU 120, 630, etc.).

With such a configuration, it is possible to increase the player's willingness to participate by changing the image to be displayed according to the player's instruction operation, and to improve the gaming interest.

(1 1 ) In any one of the above-described (1) to (1 0 ), the gaming machine includes an imaging unit (for example, a camera 33) that images the player, and the image data acquisition unit includes the original image data as the original image data The captured image data representing the player's image captured by the imaging means may be acquired (for example, the effect control CPUs 120 and 630 that acquire the captured image data as original image data in the process of step S182).

  With such a configuration, original image data can be easily acquired without hindering the progress of the game.

(1 2 ) In the gaming machine according to (1 1 ), the image data acquisition unit is a captured image representing an image of a player captured by the imaging unit from when a predetermined effect is started until a predetermined condition is satisfied. Data may be acquired.

  In such a configuration, it is possible to acquire captured image data representing an image of a player who has paid attention to the gaming machine when the production starts. Thereby, original image data representing a player's facial expression suitable for generating a display image can be acquired.

(1 3 ) In any one of the above-mentioned (1 1 ) or (1 2 ), the image display means variably displays a plurality of types of identification information that can be individually identified, and the display result is derived and displayed. Display control means, and demo display control means for causing the image display means to display a predetermined demonstration when a game by the gaming machine is not being executed, and the image data acquisition means includes the demonstration display with identification information Captured image data representing a player's image captured by the image capturing unit from when the display is switched to variable display until a predetermined condition is satisfied may be acquired.

  In such a configuration, it is possible to acquire captured image data representing an image of a player who pays attention to the gaming machine by starting variable display. Thereby, original image data representing a player's facial expression suitable for generating a display image can be acquired.

(1 4 ) In any one of the above gaming machines (1 1 ) to (1 3 ), the image data acquisition unit is configured such that the imaging unit does not start until a predetermined condition is satisfied after a game is started by the gaming machine. You may acquire the captured image data showing the image of the imaged player.

  In such a configuration, it is possible to acquire captured image data representing an image of a player who has paid attention to the gaming machine at the start of the game. Thereby, original image data representing a player's facial expression suitable for generating a display image can be acquired.

  Note that the predetermined condition for acquiring the captured image data is satisfied when, for example, the predetermined game state is changed to a specific game state such as a specific game state when a predetermined time has elapsed or a predetermined number of variable displays are executed. When it is controlled, when a predetermined effect is finished (or started), when the variable display state of the identification information becomes a reach state, or any one or all of these conditions is established earliest It is only necessary that an arbitrary predetermined condition is satisfied, such as when

It is a front view of the pachinko gaming machine in this embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the various control boards etc. which were mounted in the pachinko game machine. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the content of an effect control command. It is explanatory drawing which illustrates the random number for game counted on the main board side. It is a figure which illustrates a fluctuation pattern. It is a figure which illustrates a variation pattern classification. It is a figure which shows the structural example of a special figure display result determination table. It is a figure which shows the structural example of a big hit classification determination table. It is a figure which shows the structural example of a variation pattern classification determination table. It is a figure which shows the structural example of a variation pattern classification determination table. It is a figure which shows the structural example of a fluctuation pattern determination table. It is a block diagram which shows the structural example of the data holding area for game control. It is a figure which shows the structural example etc. of an effect control pattern. FIG. 38 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of an effect control data holding area. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the timer interruption process for game control. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a special symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of production control main processing. It is a flowchart which shows an example of production control process processing. It is a flowchart which shows an example of an image management process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a variable display start setting process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the production process during variable display. It is a figure for demonstrating the operation example which produces | generates the image for a display based on an original image. It is explanatory drawing which illustrates the selection ratio of the image for a display. It is a figure which shows the example of production | presentation operation | movement using the display image. It is a figure which shows the structural example for acquiring original image data from an external device. It is a figure which shows the structural example of an original image provision server. It is a front view of the slot machine to which this invention is applied. It is a block diagram which shows the various control boards etc. which are mounted in a slot machine.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine according to the present embodiment and shows an arrangement layout of main members. The pachinko gaming machine (gaming machine) 1 is roughly composed of a gaming board (gauge board) 2 constituting a gaming board surface and a gaming machine frame (base frame) 3 for supporting and fixing the gaming board 2. The game board 2 is formed with a substantially circular game area surrounded by guide rails. In this game area, a game ball as a game medium is launched from a predetermined hitting ball launching device and driven.

  A first special symbol display device 4A and a second special symbol display device 4B are provided at predetermined positions of the game board 2 (in the example shown in FIG. 1, on the right side of the game area). Each of the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B is composed of, for example, 7-segment or dot matrix LEDs (light emitting diodes) and the like. Special symbols (also referred to as “special graphics”), which are a plurality of types of identification information (special identification information) that can be displayed, are variably displayed (variable display). For example, the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B each have a plurality of types of special symbols composed of numbers indicating "0" to "9", symbols indicating "-" or "." Variable display of symbols. A plurality of special symbols are assigned symbol numbers corresponding thereto.

  The special symbols displayed on the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B are limited to those composed of numbers indicating "0" to "9", symbols indicating "-", and the like. However, for example, a plurality of types of lighting patterns in which the combination of the LED to be turned on and the LED to be turned off in the 7-segment LED may be set in advance as a plurality of types of special symbols. Hereinafter, the special symbol variably displayed on the first special symbol display device 4A is also referred to as "first special symbol", and the special symbol variably displayed on the second special symbol display device 4B is also referred to as "second special symbol". . Both the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B are formed, for example, in a square shape. Note that the type of the first special figure and the type of the second special figure may be the same (for example, both a number indicating “0” to “9” and a symbol indicating “−” or “.”). However, the types may be different. Further, each of the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B may be configured to variably display numbers (or two-digit symbols) indicating, for example, “00” to “99”. .

  An image display device 5 is provided near the center of the game area on the game board 2. The image display device 5 is composed of, for example, an LCD (liquid crystal display device) or the like, and forms a display area for displaying various effect images. In the display area of the image display device 5, the first special symbol variable display by the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol variable display by the second special symbol display device 4B in the special symbol game respectively correspond to the variable display. For example, in a decorative symbol display area serving as a plurality of variable display units such as three, decorative symbols that are a plurality of types of identification information (decorative identification information) that can be identified are variably displayed. This variable display of decorative designs is also included in the variable display game.

  As an example, “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R are arranged in the display area of the image display device 5. And in response to the start of one of the changes in the first special symbol in the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol in the second special symbol display device 4B in the special symbol game, In the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R, the variation of decorative symbols (for example, vertical scroll display) is started. Thereafter, when the fixed special symbol is stopped and displayed as a variable display result in the special symbol game, the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R in the image display device 5 are displayed. Then, the finalized decorative symbol (final stop symbol) that is the variable display result of the decorative symbol is stopped and displayed.

  As described above, in the display area of the image display device 5, a special game using the first special graphic in the first special symbol display device 4A or a special graphic using the second special graphic in the second special symbol display device 4B is used. In synchronism with the figure game, variable display of a plurality of types of decorative symbols that can be identified is performed, and a definite decorative symbol that is a variable display result is derived and displayed (or simply referred to as “derivation”). In addition, for example, deriving and displaying various display symbols such as a special symbol and a decorative symbol means that identification information such as a decorative symbol is stopped and displayed (also referred to as a complete stop display or a final stop display) and the variable display is ended. . On the other hand, during the variable display from the start of the variable display of the decorative pattern until the fixed decorative pattern that is the variable display result is derived and displayed, the variation speed of the decorative pattern becomes “0”, The symbol may be displayed in a stationary state, for example, in a display state that causes slight shaking or expansion / contraction. Such a display state is also called a temporary stop display, and although the display result in the variable display is not displayed deterministically, the player can recognize that the variation of the decorative pattern due to the scroll display or the update display is not progressing. It becomes. The temporary stop display may include displaying the decorative symbols completely stopped for a time shorter than a predetermined time (for example, 1 second) without causing slight shaking or expansion / contraction.

  The decorative symbols variably displayed in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R include, for example, eight types of symbols (alphanumeric characters “1” to “8” or Chinese characters). Numbers, English characters, 8 character images related to a predetermined motif, combinations of numbers, characters, symbols, and character images, etc. Note that character images are, for example, people, animals, objects other than these, or characters Or a decorative image showing any other figure). A corresponding symbol number is assigned to each of the decorative symbols. For example, symbol numbers “1” to “8” are assigned to alphanumeric characters indicating “1” to “8”, respectively. Note that the number of decorative symbols is not limited to eight, and may be any number as long as an appropriate number of combinations such as a jackpot combination or a combination that is lost can be configured (for example, seven types or nine types).

  After the decorative symbol variable display is started, the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R are displayed until the fixed decorative symbol that is the variable display result is derived and displayed. In FIG. 5, for example, scroll display is performed such that the symbol number sequentially flows from the top to the bottom from the smallest to the largest, and when the decorative symbol having the largest symbol number (for example, “8”) is displayed, The decorative symbol having the smallest symbol number (for example, “1”) is displayed. Alternatively, in at least one of the decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R (for example, the “left” decorative symbol display area 5L), the symbols are scrolled from the largest symbol number to the smallest symbol symbol. When the decorative design having the smallest number is displayed, the decorative design having the largest design number may be displayed.

  In the display area of the image display device 5, a start winning storage display area 5H is arranged. In the start winning memory display area 5H, a hold memory display for displaying the variable display hold number corresponding to the special figure game (special figure hold memory number) is specified. Here, the variable display suspension corresponding to the special game is that the game ball passes through the first start winning opening formed by the normal winning ball apparatus 6A and the second starting winning opening formed by the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B. Generated based on the start winning by entering (entering). That is, the start condition (also referred to as “execution condition”) for executing a variable display game such as a special figure game or a variable display of decorative symbols has been established, but a variable display game based on the previously established start condition is being executed. When the start condition that allows the start of the variable display game is not satisfied due to the fact that the pachinko gaming machine 1 is controlled to the big hit gaming state, the variable display corresponding to the established start condition is suspended. Done.

  In the example shown in FIG. 1, together with the start winning memory display area 5H, the first hold for displaying the special figure hold memory number in an identifiable manner on the upper part of the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B. A display 25A and a second hold display 25B are provided. The first hold indicator 25A displays the first special figure hold memory number so that it can be specified. The second hold indicator 25B displays the second special figure hold memory number so that it can be specified.

  The number of first special figure hold memory is the number of memory in which the execution of the special figure game using the first special figure is suspended. The second special figure hold memory number is the number of memories in which the execution of the special figure game using the second special figure is suspended. The variable display hold memory number obtained by adding the first special figure hold memory number and the second special figure hold memory number is also referred to as a total hold memory number. When simply referring to the “number of special figure hold memory”, it usually refers to a concept including any of the first special figure hold memory number, the second special figure hold memory number, and the total hold memory number. It may refer to a concept that includes the first special figure reserved memory number and the second special figure reserved memory number but excludes the total reserved memory number).

  Below the image display device 5, an ordinary winning ball device 6A and an ordinary variable winning ball device 6B are provided. The normal winning ball device 6A forms a first starting winning opening as a starting area (first starting area) that is always kept in a constant open state by a predetermined ball receiving member, for example. The normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B has an electric motor having a pair of movable wing pieces that are changed into a normal open state as a vertical position and an expanded open state as a tilt position by a solenoid 81 for a normal electric accessory shown in FIG. A tulip-shaped accessory (ordinary electric accessory) is provided, and a start area (second start area) and a second start winning opening are formed.

  As an example, in the normally variable winning ball apparatus 6B, the movable wing piece is in the vertical position when the solenoid 81 for the normal electric accessory is in the OFF state, so that the game ball passes (enters) the second starting winning opening. It is difficult to open normally. On the other hand, in the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B, the game ball passes through the second start winning opening by the tilt control in which the movable blade piece is tilted when the solenoid 81 for the normal electric accessory is in the ON state ( It will be in an expanded open state that is easy to enter. In the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B, although the game ball can enter the second start winning opening even in the normal open state, there is a possibility that the game ball may enter more than in the expanded open state. You may comprise so that it may become low. Alternatively, the normally variable winning ball apparatus 6B may be configured such that the game ball does not enter the second starting winning opening in the normally open state, for example, by closing the second starting winning opening. In this way, the second start winning port as the second start area is in an expanded open state in which game balls easily pass (enter) and in a normally open state in which game balls are difficult to pass (enter) or cannot pass (enter). To change.

  A game ball that has passed (entered) the first start winning opening formed in the normal winning ball apparatus 6A is detected by, for example, a first start opening switch 22A shown in FIG. The game ball that has passed (entered) the second start winning opening formed in the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B is detected by, for example, the second start opening switch 22B shown in FIG. Based on the detection of the game ball by the first start port switch 22A, a predetermined number (for example, three) of game balls are paid out as prize balls, and the first special figure holding memory number is set to a predetermined upper limit value (for example, “ 4 ") If the following, the first start condition is satisfied. Based on the detection of the game ball by the second start port 22B, a predetermined number (for example, three) of game balls are paid out as prize balls, and the second special figure holding memory number is set to a predetermined upper limit value (for example, “ 4 ") If the following, the second start condition is satisfied. The number of prize balls to be paid out based on the detection of the game ball by the first start port switch 22A and the number of prize balls to be paid out based on the detection of the game ball by the second start port switch 22B. May be the same number or different numbers.

  A special variable winning ball device 7 is provided below the normal winning ball device 6A and the normal variable winning ball device 6B. The special variable winning ball apparatus 7 includes a special winning opening door that is opened and closed by a solenoid 82 for the special winning opening door shown in FIG. 2, and the specific region that changes between an open state and a closed state by the special winning opening door. As a big prize opening. As an example, in the special variable winning ball apparatus 7, when the solenoid 82 for the special prize opening door is in the OFF state, the special prize opening door closes the big winning prize opening, and the game ball passes (enters) the big winning prize opening. Make it impossible. On the other hand, in the special variable winning ball apparatus 7, when the solenoid 82 for the big prize opening door is in the ON state, the big winning opening door opens the big winning opening and the game ball passes through the big winning opening (entrance). ) Make it easier. In this way, the special winning opening as a specific area changes into an open state in which a game ball easily passes (enters) and is advantageous to the player, and a closed state in which the game ball cannot pass (enters) and is disadvantageous to the player To do. Instead of the closed state where the game ball cannot pass (enter) through the big prize opening, or in addition to the closed state, a partially opened state where the game ball hardly passes (enters) through the big prize port may be provided.

  The game ball that has passed (entered) through the big prize opening is detected by, for example, the count switch 23 shown in FIG. Based on the detection of game balls by the count switch 23, a predetermined number (for example, 15) of game balls are paid out as prize balls. In this way, when the game ball passes (enters) through the large winning opening opened in the special variable winning ball apparatus 7, the gaming ball passes through other winning openings such as the first starting winning opening and the second starting winning opening, for example. More prize balls are paid out than when passing (entering). Therefore, if the special prize winning ball device 7 is in the open state, the game ball can enter the special prize winning opening, which is a first state advantageous to the player. On the other hand, when the special prize winning device 7 is closed in the special variable prize winning ball device 7, it becomes impossible or difficult for the player to get a prize ball by passing (entering) the gaming ball into the special prize winning port. This is a disadvantageous second state.

  A normal symbol display 20 is provided at a predetermined position of the game board 2 (on the left side of the game area in the example shown in FIG. 1). As an example, the normal symbol display 20 is composed of 7 segments, dot matrix LEDs, and the like, like the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B, and a plurality of types of identification information different from the special symbols. Is displayed (variably displayed) in a variable manner. Such variable display of normal symbols is called a general game (also referred to as “normal game”). Above the normal symbol display 20, a universal figure holding display 25 </ b> C is provided. The general-purpose hold indicator 25C includes, for example, four LEDs, and displays the general-purpose hold storage number as the number of effective passing balls that have passed through the passing gate 41.

  In addition to the above-described configuration, the surface of the game board 2 is provided with a windmill for changing the flow direction and speed of the game ball and a number of obstacle nails. In addition, as a winning opening different from the first starting winning opening, the second starting winning opening, and the large winning opening, for example, a single or plural general winning openings that are always kept in a certain open state by a predetermined ball receiving member are provided. May be. In this case, a predetermined number (for example, 10) of game balls may be paid out as a prize ball based on the fact that a game ball that has entered one of the general prize openings is detected by a predetermined general prize ball switch. In the lowermost part of the game area, there is provided an out port through which game balls that have not entered any winning port are taken.

  Speakers 8L and 8R for reproducing and outputting sound effects and the like are provided at the left and right upper positions of the gaming machine frame 3, and a game effect lamp 9 is provided at the periphery of the game area. A decorative LED may be arranged around each structure (for example, the normal winning ball device 6A, the normal variable winning ball device 6B, the special variable winning ball device 7, etc.) in the game area of the pachinko gaming machine 1. At the lower right position of the gaming machine frame 3, there is provided a hitting operation handle (operation knob) operated by a player or the like to launch a game ball as a game medium toward the game area. For example, the hitting operation handle adjusts the resilience of the game ball according to the operation amount (rotation amount) by the player or the like. The hitting operation handle only needs to be provided with a single shot switch or a touch ring (touch sensor) for stopping the driving of a shooting motor included in the hitting ball shooting device.

  At a predetermined position of the gaming machine frame 3 below the gaming area, a game ball paid out as a prize ball or a game ball lent out by a predetermined ball lending machine is held (stored) so as to be supplied to a ball hitting device. )) Is provided. Below the gaming machine frame 3, there is provided a lower plate that holds (stores) surplus balls overflowing from the upper plate so as to be discharged to the outside of the pachinko gaming machine 1.

  For example, a stick controller 31A that can be held and tilted by the player is attached to a member that forms the lower plate, for example, at a predetermined position on the front side of the upper surface of the lower plate main body (for example, a central portion of the lower plate). Yes. The stick controller 31A includes an operation stick that the player holds, and a trigger button is provided at a predetermined position of the operation stick (for example, a position where the index finger of the operator is hooked when the player holds the operation stick). Yes. The trigger button can be operated in a predetermined direction by performing a push-pull operation with a predetermined operation finger (for example, an index finger) in a state where the player holds the operation stick of the stick controller 31A with an operation hand (for example, the left hand). What is necessary is just to be comprised. A trigger sensor that detects a predetermined instruction operation such as a push / pull operation on the trigger button may be incorporated in the operation rod. A tilt direction sensor unit for detecting a tilting operation with respect to the operating rod may be provided inside the lower pan main body or the like below the stick controller 31A. For example, the tilt direction sensor unit includes two transmissive photosensors (parallel sensors) arranged in parallel to the board surface of the game board 2 on the left side of the center position of the operation pole when viewed from the player side facing the pachinko gaming machine 1. And a pair of transmissive photosensors (vertical sensor pairs) arranged perpendicularly to the surface of the game board 2 on the right side of the center position of the operation rod when viewed from the player side. What is necessary is just to be comprised including the photo sensor.

  The member that forms the upper plate includes, for example, a push button 31B that allows a player to perform a predetermined instruction operation by a pressing operation or the like at a predetermined position on the front side of the upper surface of the upper plate body (for example, above the stick controller 31A). Is provided. The push button 31B only needs to be configured to be able to detect a predetermined instruction operation such as a pressing operation from a player mechanically, electrically, or electromagnetically. A push sensor for detecting the player's operation act on the push button 31B may be provided inside the main body of the upper plate at the installation position of the push button 31B.

  At a predetermined position of the game board 2 (in the example shown in FIG. 1, an upper portion of the image display device 5), a camera 33 that performs imaging in a predetermined range (imaging range) in front (front side) of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is provided. ing. The camera 33 is configured by using a solid-state imaging device such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) image sensor or a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) image sensor, for example, by converting incident light from an imaging target into an electrical signal. Generate image data. Note that the camera 33 may use a passive sensor system in which natural light reflected by an imaging target is incident, or infrared light, ultraviolet light, or visible light output from a predetermined light emitting member (transmitter). May be used that uses an active sensor system in which the imaging target is irradiated and the reflected light is incident. Further, the camera 33 may be a camera that is incident through a part or all of the imaging target, as in the case of irradiating X-rays, for example.

  The camera 33 may be configured as a single imaging device, for example, configured as a plurality of imaging devices arranged at predetermined positions on the surface (front surface) or the periphery of the pachinko gaming machine 1. There may be. Instead of the camera 33 or together with the camera 33, for example, a device such as UWB (Ultra-WideBand) pulse radar that can observe the surface shape of an object by transmitting and receiving electromagnetic waves may be used. Furthermore, instead of the camera 33 that detects an electromagnetic wave such as infrared rays, ultraviolet rays, or visible light as an incident signal, an apparatus that can detect an electromagnetic wave other than the electromagnetic wave as an incident signal may be used together with the camera 33, for example.

  Next, the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1 will be schematically described.

  In the pachinko gaming machine 1, the normal symbol display 20 performs variable display of the normal symbol such that the game ball that has passed through the passing gate 41 provided in the gaming area is detected by the gate switch 21 shown in FIG. For example, the normal symbol display 20 is set based on the fact that the normal symbol start condition for starting variable display of the normal symbol, such as the end of the previous general symbol game, is satisfied after the general symbol start condition for the normal symbol start is satisfied. The usual game is started. In this normal game, after the normal symbol change is started, when a predetermined time as the normal symbol change time elapses, the fixed normal symbol that is a variable display result of the normal symbol is stopped and displayed (derived display). At this time, if a specific normal symbol (symbol per symbol), such as a number indicating “7”, is stopped and displayed as the fixed normal symbol, the variable symbol display result of the normal symbol is “per symbol”. On the other hand, if a normal symbol other than the symbol per symbol such as a number or symbol other than the number indicating “7” is stopped and displayed as the fixed ordinary symbol, the variable symbol display result of the normal symbol is “ordinary loss”. Become. Corresponding to the fact that the normal symbol variable display result is “per standard”, the expansion / release control (tilt control) is performed in which the movable tulip of the electric tulip constituting the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B is tilted. The normal opening control is performed to return to the vertical position when a predetermined time has elapsed.

  After the first start condition is satisfied, for example, when the game ball that has passed (entered) the first start winning opening formed in the normal winning ball apparatus 6A is detected by the first start opening switch 22A shown in FIG. Based on the fact that the first start condition is satisfied, for example, because the previous special figure game or the big hit gaming state has ended, the special figure game by the first special symbol display device 4A is started. Further, the second starting condition is satisfied, for example, when a game ball that has passed (entered) the second starting winning opening formed in the normally variable winning ball apparatus 6B is detected by the second starting opening switch 22B shown in FIG. Later, a special game by the second special symbol display device 4B is started based on the fact that the second start condition is satisfied, for example, due to the end of the previous special game or the big hit gaming state.

  In the special symbol game by the first special symbol display device 4A or the second special symbol display device 4B, after the variable symbol display time as the special symbol variable time has elapsed after the variable symbol special display is started, the variable symbol variable symbol is displayed. The resulting definite special symbol (special diagram display result) is derived and displayed. At this time, if a specific special symbol (big hit symbol) is stopped and displayed as a confirmed special symbol, it becomes a “big hit” as the specific display result, and a predetermined special symbol (small bonus symbol) different from the big hit symbol is stopped and displayed. Then, it becomes “small hit” as a predetermined display result. Further, if a special symbol different from the big hit symbol or the small hit symbol is stopped and displayed as the confirmed special symbol, the game is “lost”.

  After the variable display result in the special figure game becomes “big hit”, the game is controlled to the big hit gaming state as a specific gaming state in which a round advantageous to the player (also referred to as “round game”) is executed a predetermined number of times. After the variable display result in the special figure game becomes “small hit”, the small hit game state is controlled as a special game state different from the big hit game state. In the pachinko gaming machine 1 in this embodiment, as an example, the special symbol indicating the numbers “3”, “5”, and “7” is the big hit symbol, and the special symbol indicating the number “2” is the small hit symbol. , The special symbol indicating the symbol “−” is a lost symbol. It should be noted that each symbol such as a big win symbol, a small bonus symbol, or a lose symbol in the special symbol game by the first special symbol display device 4A is different from each symbol in the special symbol game by the second special symbol display device 4B. Alternatively, a special symbol common to both special symbol games may be a big hit symbol, a small bonus symbol, or a lost symbol.

  After the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed as a specific symbol in the special game, and the result of the specific display is “big hit”, the big winning door of the special variable winning ball device 7 is in a predetermined upper limit time in the big hit gaming state. The large winning opening is opened in a period until (for example, 29 seconds or 0.1 second) elapses or a period until a predetermined number (for example, 9) of winning balls are generated. Thereby, the round which makes the special variable winning ball apparatus 7 the 1st state (open state) advantageous for a player is performed. A special prize-winning ball device that receives a game ball falling on the surface of the game board 2 and then closes the big prize-winning slot, with the grand prize-winning door that has opened the grand prize-winning port during the round. 7 is changed to the second state (closed state) disadvantageous to the player, and one round is completed. The round that is the opening cycle of the big prize opening can be repeatedly executed until the number of executions reaches a predetermined upper limit number (for example, “15” or the like). Even before the number of rounds has reached the upper limit, the execution of the round may be terminated when a predetermined condition is satisfied (for example, a game ball has not won a big prize opening). .

  Of the rounds in the big hit gaming state, the round in which the upper limit time for which the special variable winning ball apparatus 7 is in the first state (open state) advantageous for the player is relatively long (for example, 29 seconds) is normally opened. Also called round. On the other hand, a round in which the upper limit time during which the special variable winning ball apparatus 7 is in the first state (open state) is relatively short (for example, 0.1 seconds) is also referred to as a short-term open round. Of the special symbols showing the numbers "3", "5", and "7" that are jackpot symbols, the special symbols showing the numbers "3" and "7" are normally open round jackpot symbols and the number "5" The special symbol indicating is a short-term open round jackpot symbol.

  In the big hit game state (normal open big hit state) as the normal open round specific game state controlled after the normal open round big hit symbol is derived as the fixed special symbol in the special figure game, the big winning opening of the special variable winning ball apparatus 7 The door is in the open state in a period until a predetermined upper limit time (for example, 29 seconds) that is the first period elapses or until a predetermined number (for example, 9) of winning balls are generated. By doing so, the round which changes the special variable winning ball apparatus 7 to the 1st state (open state) advantageous to a player is performed. The normal open big hit state is also referred to as a first specific game state.

  In the big hit game state (short-term open big hit state) as the short-term open round specific game state controlled after the short-term open round big hit symbol is derived as the final special symbol in the special figure game, the special variable winning ball apparatus 7 is set in each round. A second time period (for example, 0) that the upper limit time for changing to the first state advantageous to the player (the upper limit of the period during which the big prize opening is opened by the big prize opening door) is shorter than the first period in the normal opening big hit state. 1 second). Note that in the short-term open big hit state, it is only necessary to control the opening period of the big prize opening to be the second period, and other control may be performed in the same manner as the normal open big hit state. Alternatively, in the short-term open big hit state, the number of rounds may be set to a second round number (eg, “2”) that is smaller than the first round number (eg, “15”) in the normal open big hit state.

  In such a short-term open big hit state, a predetermined number (for example, 15 balls) of balls (prize balls) can be obtained if a game ball wins a big winning opening. However, the opening period of the special winning opening is the second period (such as 0.1 second) and is very short. For this reason, the short-term open big hit state is a big hit gaming state in which a ball (prize ball) cannot be obtained substantially. The short-term open big hit state is also called a second specific game state.

  In addition, the jackpot gaming state as the short-term opening round specific gaming state is not limited to the one with a short winning opening period compared to the big hit gaming state as the normal opening round specific gaming state, for example, the opening of the big winning mouth The period (upper limit time) is the same in the short-term open round specific game state and the normal open round specific game state, but in the short-term open round specific game state, there is an upper limit number of times (for example, two times) that makes the big prize opening state open. It may be less than the upper limit number of times (for example, 15 times) in the normal open round specific game state. That is, in the big hit gaming state as the short-term opening round specific gaming state, the period during which the game ball is changed to the first state in which the game ball easily passes (enters) in each round is longer than the first period in the normal opening round specific gaming state. As long as it is at least one of the short second period and the number of executions of the round being the second round number less than the first round number in the normal open round specific gaming state. .

  After the special symbol indicating the number “2” as the small hit symbol is derived as the confirmed special symbol in the special symbol game, the small hit gaming state as the special gaming state is controlled. In this small hit game state, similarly to the short-term open big hit state, the special variable winning ball apparatus 7 performs a variable winning operation for changing the big winning opening to the first state (open state) advantageous to the player. That is, in the small hit gaming state, for example, the operation of setting the special variable winning ball device 7 to the first state (open state) over the second period is repeatedly executed.

  In the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R provided in the image display device 5, a special symbol game using the first special symbol in the first special symbol display device 4A and In response to the start of any one of the special symbol games using the second special symbol in the second special symbol display device 4B, the decorative symbol variable display is started. The period from the start of variable display of decorative symbols to the end of variable display due to the stop display of the fixed decorative symbols in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R Then, the variable display state of the decorative pattern may be a predetermined reach state.

  Here, the reach state means a decorative symbol (“reach variation symbol” which has not been stopped yet when the decorative symbol stopped and displayed in the display area of the image display device 5 forms part of the jackpot combination. Is also a display state in which the variation continues, or a display state in which all or part of the decorative symbols change synchronously while constituting all or part of the jackpot combination. Specifically, in some of the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R (for example, “left” and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L and 5R) in advance. The remaining decorative symbol display area (for example, “medium”) that has not yet been stopped when the decorative symbol (for example, the decorative symbol indicating the alphanumeric character “7”) that constitutes the determined jackpot combination is stopped. In the symbol display area 5C, etc., the decorative pattern is changing, or in all or part of the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R. This is a display state that changes in synchronization while constituting all or part of the combination.

  Further, in response to the reach state, the variation speed of the decorative design is reduced, or a character image (an effect image simulating a person) different from the decorative design is displayed in the display area of the image display device 5. Or changing the display mode of the background image, playing and displaying a moving image that is different from the decorative design, or changing the variation mode of the decorative design, performing a different rendering operation than before reaching the reach state May be. Such effect operations such as display of the character image, change of the display mode of the background image, reproduction display of the moving image, and change of the decorative pattern change mode are referred to as reach effect display (or simply reach effect). In the reach effect, not only the display operation in the image display device 5 but also the sound output operation by the speakers 8L and 8R, the lighting operation (flashing operation) in the light emitter such as the game effect lamp 9, and the like are in the reach state. An operation mode different from the previous operation mode may be included.

  As an effect operation in the reach effect, a plurality of types of effect patterns (also referred to as “reach patterns”) having different operation modes (reach modes) may be prepared in advance. Each reach mode has a different possibility of “big hit” (also referred to as “reliability” or “big hit reliability”). That is, it is possible to vary the possibility that the variable display result will be a “hit” depending on which of the multiple types of reach effects is executed.

  As an example, in this embodiment, reach modes such as normal reach, super reach α, and super reach β are preset. And, when the reach form of super reach such as super reach α and super reach β appears, the possibility that the variable display result will be “big hit” compared to the case where the reach form of normal reach appears (expected degree of big hit) Becomes higher.

  During the variable display of decorative designs, unlike reach production, the variable display status of decorative designs may become reach status, and the variable display result may be a `` big hit '', etc. There may be a case where a variable display effect for informing the player is given in accordance with a variable display mode of decorative symbols. In this embodiment, variable display effects such as “sliding” and “pseudo-continuous” can be executed.

  It is only necessary to determine whether or not the “sliding” and “pseudo-continuous” variable display effects should be executed in response to the change pattern being determined on the main board 11 side. Whether or not the variable display effect of “slip” is to be executed on the side of the effect control board 12 may be determined regardless of the variation pattern determined on the side of the main board 11. In the variable display effect of “slip”, the decorative symbols are changed in all of the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R, and then a plurality of decorative symbol display areas (for example, After the decorative symbols are temporarily stopped and displayed in the “left” and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5R, etc., a predetermined number (for example, “1” or “2” of the temporarily stopped display of decorative symbols is displayed. )) In the decorative symbol display area (for example, one or both of the “left” decorative symbol display area 5L and the “right” decorative symbol display area 5R), and then the display is stopped and displayed again. An effect display for changing the decorative design to be stopped is performed. Thus, in the variable display effect of “slip”, a predetermined number of decorative symbols are displayed after temporary display of a plurality of decorative symbols from the start of variable display of decorative symbols to the display of a definite decorative symbol resulting in variable display. When the variable display state of the decorative pattern is re-executed, the variable display state of the decorative pattern becomes the reach state, and when the decorative symbol constituting the non-reach combination is stopped and displayed without reaching the reach state. is there.

  In the “pseudo-ream” variable display effect, the variable display of the decorative symbol is started in response to one of the first start condition and the second start condition of the special figure game being satisfied once. Before the final determined decorative symbol is derived and displayed, the decorative symbols are temporarily stopped and displayed in all of the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R. The effect display in which the decorative symbols are changed again (pseudo-variable) in all the decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R can be performed a predetermined number of times (for example, up to three times). The number of quasi-continuous fluctuations is displayed for the left, middle, and right decorative symbols, excluding the first variation after all decorative symbols are temporarily suspended after the decorative symbol variable display starts. This is the number of times that the decorative symbols re-variate in all of the areas 5L, 5C, and 5R.

  In the “pseudo-continuous” variable display effect, for example, one of a plurality of types of pseudo-ream chances determined in advance in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R. Are temporarily stopped and displayed as a predetermined display result. Thereafter, pseudo continuous variation (re-variable display) is performed. In this embodiment, in the variable display effect of “pseudo-continuous”, the first start condition or the second start condition is satisfied once by performing the pseudo-continuous change (re-change) once to three times. Based on this, it is possible to make it appear as if the variable display of the decorative symbols has been started 2 to 4 times in succession. Note that the number of pseudo-continuous fluctuations (re-variations) in the “pseudo-continuous” variable display effect may be executed more than one to three times, for example, four or five times.

  In addition to “slip” and “pseudo ream”, variable display effects using the variable display operation of such decorative patterns include, for example, “Development chance eyes”, “Development chance eyes end”, “Slip after chance eyes stop” Various production operations such as these may be executed. Here, in the variable display effect of “Development Opportunity”, “Left”, “Middle”, “Right” from the start of the variable display of the decorative pattern to the display of the fixed decorative pattern resulting in the variable display result. In all of the decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R, the decorative symbols constituting the development chances included in the predetermined special combination are temporarily stopped and displayed, and then the decorative symbol variable display state is reached. A predetermined reach production is started. As a result, when the decorative symbol constituting the development opportunity is temporarily stopped, the variable display state of the decorative symbol becomes the reach state, and the variable display result becomes “big hit” after the reach state is reached. Expectation is enhanced.

  Further, in the variable display effect of “end of development chance”, after the decorative display variable display is started, the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative pattern display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R are all displayed. Then, an effect display is performed in which a decorative pattern having a predetermined combination as an opportunity for development is derived and displayed as a confirmed decorative pattern. In the variable display effect of “slip after the chance stop”, as with the variable display effect of “pseudo ream”, after the variable display of the decorative pattern is started, the fixed decorative pattern that is the variable display result is derived and displayed. After temporarily displaying the decorative symbols of the lost combinations (special combinations) that are the pseudo-continuous chances in all of the decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R of “left”, “middle”, and “right”, Unlike the “pseudo-ream” variable display effect that changes the decorative symbols again in all of the decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R, the decorative symbols are changed again in some of the decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R. By doing so, an effect display for changing the decorative design to be stopped is performed.

  During variable display of decorative designs, unlike reach display or variable display effects such as “slip” and “pseudo-run”, for example, displaying a predetermined effect image, displaying a message as an image, outputting sound, etc. As described above, there is a possibility that the variable display state of the decorative symbol may reach the reach state due to the presentation operation different from the variable display operation of the decorative symbol, the possibility that the reach presentation by the super reach may be executed, the variable A notice effect may be executed to notify the player in advance that the display result may be a “hit”. The effect operation that becomes the notice effect is the variable display state of the decorative symbol after the decorative symbol variable display is started in all of the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R. May be executed (started) prior to the reach state (before the decorative symbols are temporarily displayed in the “left” and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L and 5R). In addition, the notice effect that notifies that the variable display result may be a “big hit” may include one that is executed after the variable display state of the decorative symbol becomes the reach state.

  When a special symbol that becomes a lost symbol is stopped (derived) as a confirmed special symbol in the special symbol game, the variable symbol display state is not changed to the reach state after the variable symbol variable display is started. In addition, a fixed decorative pattern that is a predetermined non-reach combination may be stopped and displayed. Such a decorative display variable display mode is referred to as a “non-reach” (also referred to as “normal loss”) variable display mode when the variable display result is “losing”.

  When a special symbol that becomes a lost symbol is stopped (derived) as a confirmed special symbol in the special symbol game, the variable symbol display state is reached after the variable symbol variable display starts. Correspondingly, after the reach effect is executed, or when the reach effect is not executed, a fixed decorative pattern that becomes a predetermined reach lose combination may be stopped and displayed. Such a variable display result of the decorative design is referred to as a variable display mode of “reach” (also referred to as “reach lose”) when the variable display result is “losing”.

  When the special big win symbol such as the special symbol indicating the number “3” is stopped and displayed as a special symbol for the special opening game as a special symbol for the special opening game, the variable display state of the decorative symbol is changed. Corresponding to reaching the reach state, after a predetermined reach effect is executed or without a reach effect, a predetermined normal big hit combination (“non-probability variable big hit combination) among a plurality of types of big hit combinations ”) Is displayed in a stopped manner. For example, the symbol number that is variably displayed in each of the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R in the image display device 5 is “1”. Among the decorative symbols of “8”, any one of the decorative symbols having the even numbers “2”, “4”, “6”, “8” is “left”, “middle”, “right”. Any of the decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R may be stopped and displayed on a predetermined effective line. Ornamental symbols having even numbers “2”, “4”, “6”, and “8” that constitute a normal jackpot combination are referred to as normal symbols (also referred to as “non-probable variation symbols”).

  Corresponding to the fact that the confirmed special symbol in the special figure game becomes the normal jackpot symbol, the fixed ornament symbol of the normal jackpot combination is stopped and displayed after the predetermined reach effect is executed or the reach effect is not executed. The decorative display variable display mode is referred to as a variable display mode (also referred to as “big hit type”) of “non-probable change” (also referred to as “normal big hit”) when the variable display result is “big hit”. Based on the fact that the variable display result is “big hit” for the big hit type of “non-probable change”, the normal open big hit state is controlled, and after the end, time reduction control (time reduction control) is performed. By performing the time-shortening control, the special symbol variable display time (special symbol variation time) in the special symbol game is shortened compared to the normal state. The normal state is a normal game state that is different from a specific game state such as a big hit game state, and is an initial setting state of the pachinko gaming machine 1 (for example, an initialization process after power-on, such as when a system reset is performed) The same control as in the state in which is executed. In the time-saving control, one of the conditions is established first, that is, a special game is executed a predetermined number of times (for example, 100 times) after the big hit gaming state is finished and the variable display result is “big hit”. Sometimes it just needs to end.

  As a confirmed special symbol in the special symbol game, among the special symbols that are normally open round jackpot symbols, when the probability variable bonus symbol such as a special symbol indicating the number “7” is stopped and displayed, the decorative symbol variable display state is Corresponding to reaching the reach state, after a reach effect similar to the case where the variable display mode of the decorative design is “normal”, or after the reach effect is not executed, a plurality of types of jackpot combinations Among them, a fixed decorative symbol that is a predetermined probability variation big hit combination may be stopped and displayed. For example, the symbol number that is variably displayed in each of the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R in the image display device 5 is “1”. Among the decorative symbols of “8”, any one of the decorative symbols whose symbol numbers are odd numbers “1”, “3”, “5”, “7” is “left”, “middle”, “right”. Any of the decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R may be stopped and displayed on a predetermined effective line. The decorative symbols having odd numbers “1”, “3”, “5”, and “7” constituting the probability variation jackpot combination are referred to as probability variation symbols. When the probability variation jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed as a confirmed special symbol in the special figure game, the fixed decoration symbol that is a normal jackpot combination may be stopped and displayed as a variable display result of the decoration symbol.

  Regardless of whether the confirmed decorative symbol is a normal jackpot combination or a promiscuous jackpot combination, the variable display mode in which the probable jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed as a confirmed special symbol in the special figure game has a variable display result of “big hit” This is referred to as a variable display mode of “probability change” (also referred to as “big hit type”). Based on the fact that the variable display result is “big hit” in the “big change” big hit type, the normal open big hit state is controlled, and after the end, the probability variation control (probability change control) is performed together with the time reduction control. By performing the probability variation control, the probability that the variable display result (special display result) becomes “big hit” in each special figure game is improved so as to be higher than in the normal state. The certainty control may be ended when the condition that the variable display result is “big hit” and the game is controlled again in the big hit gaming state after the big hit gaming state is ended. Similar to the time-saving control, the probability variation control may be ended when a special number of games (for example, 100 times) is executed after the end of the big hit gaming state. In addition, even if the probability variation control is ended when the probability variation control is ended by the probability variation control lottery executed every time the special game is started after the big hit gaming state is ended, the probability variation control is terminated. Good.

  When the time reduction control is performed, the normal symbol display unit 20 uses the normal symbol display unit 20 to make the normal symbol change time (normal symbol change time) shorter than that in the normal state, or to change the normal symbol in each time the normal symbol game. Control for improving the probability that the display result is “per normal figure” than in the normal state, and tilt control of the movable blade piece in the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B based on the fact that the variable display result is “per normal figure”. The game ball can easily pass (enter) the second start winning opening, such as a control to make the tilt control time for performing longer than that in the normal state, and a control to increase the number of tilts than in the normal state. Control that is advantageous to the player is performed by increasing the possibility that the start condition is satisfied. In this way, the control that facilitates the entry of the game ball into the second start winning opening in accordance with the time-shortening control and is advantageous to the player is also referred to as high opening control. As the high opening control, any one of these controls may be performed, or a plurality of controls may be performed in combination.

  By performing the high opening control, the frequency at which the second start winning opening becomes the expanded opening state is higher than when the high opening control is not performed. As a result, the second starting condition for executing the special figure game using the second special figure in the second special symbol display device 4B can be easily established, and the special figure game can be executed frequently. In addition, the time until the variable display result becomes “big hit” is shortened. The period during which the high opening control can be performed is also referred to as a high opening control period, and this period may be the same as the period during which the time reduction control is performed.

  The gaming state in which both the short time control and the high opening control are performed is also referred to as a short time state or a high base state. The gaming state in which the probability variation control is performed is also referred to as a probability variation state or a high probability state. A gaming state in which the time-shortening control or the high opening control is performed together with the probability variation control is also referred to as a high probability high base state. The probability variation state in which only the probability variation control is performed and the short time control or the high opening control is not performed is also referred to as a high probability low base state. Note that only the gaming state in which the time-shortening control or the high opening control is performed together with the probability variation control may be referred to as a “probability variation state”. The short time state in which the short time control or the high opening control is performed without performing the probability variation control is also referred to as a low probability high base state. The normal state in which neither the probability variation control, the time reduction control nor the high opening control is performed is also referred to as a low probability low base state.

  When at least one of time-shortening control and probability variation control is performed in a gaming state other than the normal state, the probability that the special-purpose game can be executed frequently and the variable display result in each special-purpose game will be “big hit” As a result, the player is in an advantageous state. A gaming state advantageous to a player different from the big hit gaming state is also referred to as a special gaming state.

  As a confirmed special symbol in the special symbol game, when a short-term open round jackpot symbol such as a special symbol indicating “5” is stopped or displayed, or a small bonus symbol such as a special symbol indicating “2” is stopped or displayed. In some cases, the variable display state of the decorative symbol does not reach the reach state, and any one of a combination of a plurality of types of fixed decorative symbols determined in advance as the chance of opening may be displayed in a stopped manner. In addition, when the short-term opening round jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed as a confirmed special symbol in the special symbol game, a predetermined reach effect is executed in response to the variable symbol display state of the ornament symbol being reached. In some cases, a fixed decorative pattern that is a predetermined reach combination is stopped and displayed.

  Corresponding to the fact that the confirmed special symbol in the special figure game becomes a short-term open round jackpot symbol, the variable display mode of the decorative symbol in which various fixed ornament symbols are stopped and displayed is when the variable display result is "big hit" This is referred to as a variable display mode (also referred to as a “big hit type”) of “surprise accuracy” (also referred to as “surprise probability big hit” or “sudden probability change big hit”). Based on the fact that the variable display result is “big hit” in the “surprise” big hit type, the short-term open big hit state is controlled, and after the end, the probability variation control may be performed together with the short time control.

  Based on the fact that the small hit symbol such as the special symbol indicating the number “2” is stopped and the variable display result is “small hit” as the confirmed special symbol in the special figure game, the small hit game state is controlled. After that, the gaming state is not changed, and the gaming state before the variable display result is “small hit” is continuously controlled. However, if the number of executions of the special figure game in the special gaming state has reached a predetermined number when the special figure game with the variable display result of “small hit” is executed, after the end of the small hit gaming state, The special gaming state may end and return to the normal state.

  If the winning symbol is opened after the final decorative symbol composing the opening chance is derived and displayed as the variable display result of the decorative symbol, the variable display result is “big hit” and the big hit type is “accurate” There is a case where it is controlled to a short hit big hit state based on that, and a case where it is controlled to a small hit gaming state based on the fact that the variable display result is “small hit”. On the other hand, the winning winning opening is opened after the definite decorative symbols constituting the reach combination are derived and displayed as the variable display result of the decorative symbols. The variable display result is “big hit” and the big hit type is “exact” Only when it is controlled to a short-term open big hit state. Therefore, the confirmed decorative symbols that make up the opening chances correspond to being controlled to either the short-term open big hit state or the small hit gaming state, while the fixed decorative symbols of the reach combination are short-term open big hit states It corresponds to being controlled by.

  A re-lottery effect may be executed during the variable display of the decorative symbols in which the confirmed decorative symbol is a non-probabilistic big hit combination or a probabilistic big hit combination. In the re-lottery effect, after the decorative symbols that are usually the big hit combinations are displayed temporarily on the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R on the image display device 5, for example, “left ”,“ Medium ”,“ Right ”decorative symbols display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R with the same decorative symbols in the same state, and then fluctuate again. One of the decorative symbols (normal symbols) to be combined is stopped and displayed as a final decorative symbol (final stop display).

  Here, when the re-lottery effect is executed when the big hit type is “non-probable change”, as the re-lottery effect, the fixed decorative symbol that becomes the normal jackpot combination after re-changing the temporarily stopped decorative symbol is displayed. A re-lottery selection effect for deriving and displaying is performed. On the other hand, when the re-lottery effect is executed when the big hit type is “probable change”, as the re-lottery effect, the definite decoration that becomes the probable big hit combination after re-variation of the temporarily stopped decorative pattern A re-lottery winning effect that stops and displays a symbol may be executed, or a re-lottery winning effect may be executed. After the decisive decorative symbol that is normally a jackpot combination is derived and displayed, at the start of the jackpot gaming state or during the round in the jackpot gaming state, one round ends in the jackpot gaming state and the next round starts During the big hit that will be a promising change notification effect whether or not to control to the probable change state, such as the period from the end of the last round in the big hit gaming state until the start of the next variable display game A promotion effect may be executed.

  Note that a notification effect similar to the jackpot promotion effect may be executed during the first variable display game after the end of the jackpot gaming state. The jackpot promotion effect that is executed after the final round in the jackpot game state is particularly called “ending promotion effect”. In the jackpot promotion effect, there is a jackpot promotion promotion effect that informs that there is a promotion that the gaming state becomes a probable change state even though the confirmed decorative pattern is a normal jackpot combination, and that there is no promotion that becomes a probable change state There is a promotion promotion failure during the jackpot to be notified. For example, in the jackpot promotion effect, the decorative symbol is variably displayed in the display area of the image display device 5 and either the normal symbol or the probability variable symbol is stopped and displayed as the effect display result, or the decorative symbol is variably displayed. May be notified so that the player can recognize the presence or absence of promotion to be in a certain change state by displaying different effect images.

  In this embodiment, when the probability variation symbol constituting the probability variation big hit combination is derived and displayed in the variable display of the decorative symbol, the high probability base state (probability variation state) in which both probability variation control and time reduction control are performed after the big hit gaming state ends. ) Is confirmed. That is, the definite decorative symbol that becomes the probability variation big hit combination corresponds to being controlled to the probability variation state as the high probability high base state. On the other hand, when a normal symbol that constitutes a normal jackpot combination is derived and displayed in the variable display of the decorative symbol, there may be a low-accuracy base state (short-time state) in which only the short-time control is performed after the big-hit gaming state ends. It may be in a highly accurate and high base state (probability change state). That is, the fixed decorative symbol that is normally a big hit combination corresponds to being controlled to either the time-short state as the low-accuracy and high-base state or the probability variation state as the high-accuracy and high-base state. The low-accuracy base state and the high-accuracy base state are both advantageous gaming states that are advantageous to the player as compared to the normal state. In addition, since the highly accurate and high base state (probability change state) is subjected to the probability change control in addition to the time reduction control, the game is more effective than the low accuracy and high base state (time reduction state) as the first advantageous state in which only the time reduction control is performed. It becomes the 2nd advantageous state with a high advantage for a person.

  In the re-lottery effect, the player can recognize that the variable display result is “hit” by temporarily stopping the display of the decorative symbol that is normally a big hit combination. However, since it is usually a big hit combination, it cannot be recognized whether the low-accuracy base state or the high-accuracy base state is controlled. In the re-lottery effect, when a change display that is derived and displayed after changing the decorative symbol that is normally a big hit combination to a decorative symbol that is a probable big hit combination, the variable display result is “big hit”, in addition to the big hit type It is possible for the player to recognize that becomes “probable change” and is controlled to the high-accuracy and high-base state.

  Various control boards such as a main board 11, an effect control board 12, an audio control board 13, and a lamp control board 14 as shown in FIG. 2 are mounted on the pachinko gaming machine 1. The pachinko gaming machine 1 is also equipped with a relay board 15 for relaying various control signals transmitted between the main board 11 and the effect control board 12. In addition, various boards such as a payout control board, an information terminal board, a launch control board, and an interface board are disposed on the back surface of the game board 2 in the pachinko gaming machine 1.

  The main board 11 is a main-side control board on which various circuits for controlling the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1 are mounted. The main board 11 is mainly addressed to a sub-side control board composed of a random number setting function used in a special game, a function of inputting a signal from a switch or the like disposed at a predetermined position, and an effect control board 12. A function of outputting and transmitting a control command as an example of command information as a control signal, a function of outputting various information to a hall management computer, and the like are provided. In addition, the main board 11 performs on / off control of each LED (for example, segment LED) constituting the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B, and thereby the first special diagram and the second special diagram. Variable display of a predetermined display pattern such as controlling the variable display of the normal symbol display 20 and controlling the variable symbol display of the normal symbol display 20 by controlling the lighting / extinguishing / coloring control of the normal symbol display 20. It also has a function to control.

  The main board 11 includes, for example, a game control microcomputer 100, a switch circuit 110 that receives detection signals from various switches for game ball detection and transmits the detection signals to the game control microcomputer 100, and the game control microcomputer 100. A solenoid circuit 111 for transmitting a solenoid drive signal to the solenoids 81 and 82 is mounted.

  The effect control board 12 is a sub-side control board independent of the main board 11, receives the control signal transmitted from the main board 11 via the relay board 15, and receives the image display device 5, the speakers 8L, 8R. In addition, various circuits for controlling the production operation by the production electrical parts such as the game effect lamp 9 are mounted. That is, the effect control board 12 provides effects such as the display operation in the image display device 5, all or part of the sound output operation from the speakers 8L and 8R, and all or part of the turn-on / off operation in the game effect lamp 9 or the like. A function of determining the control content for causing the electrical component to execute a predetermined performance operation is provided.

  The sound control board 13 is a control board for sound output control provided separately from the effect control board 12, and outputs sound from the speakers 8L and 8R based on commands and control data from the effect control board 12. For example, a processing circuit for executing audio signal processing is mounted. The lamp control board 14 is a control board for lamp output control provided separately from the effect control board 12, and is turned on / off in the game effect lamp 9 and the like based on commands and control data from the effect control board 12. A lamp driver circuit for driving is mounted.

  As shown in FIG. 2, wiring for transmitting detection signals from the gate switch 21, the first start port switch 22 </ b> A, the second start port switch 22 </ b> B, and the count switch 23 is connected to the main board 11. The gate switch 21, the first start port switch 22A, the second start port switch 22B, and the count switch 23 have an arbitrary configuration that can detect a game ball as a game medium, such as a sensor. What is necessary is just to have. In addition, the main board 11 includes a first special symbol display device 4A, a second special symbol display device 4B, a normal symbol display device 20, a first hold display device 25A, a second hold display device 25B, and a general drawing hold display device 25C. Wiring for transmitting a command signal for performing display control such as is connected.

  A control signal transmitted from the main board 11 toward the effect control board 12 is relayed by the relay board 15. The main board 11 is provided with a main board side connector corresponding to, for example, the relay board 15, and an output buffer circuit is connected between the main board side connector and the game control microcomputer 100. The output buffer circuit can pass a signal only in the direction from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12 via the relay board 15, and prevents the signal input from the relay board 15 to the main board 11. Therefore, there is no room for signals to be transmitted from the production control board 12 or the relay board 15 side to the main board 11 side.

  The relay board 15 only needs to be provided with a transmission direction regulation circuit for each wiring for transmitting a control signal from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12, for example. Each transmission direction regulation circuit includes a diode having an anode connected to the main board connector corresponding to the main board 11 and a cathode connected to the presentation control board connector corresponding to the presentation control board 12, and one end connected to the cathode of the diode. And a resistor having the other end connected to the ground (GND). With this configuration, each transmission direction regulating circuit can prevent the signal from being input from the effect control board 12 to the relay board 15 and pass the signal only in the direction from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12. Therefore, there is no room for signals to be transmitted from the production control board 12 side to the main board 11 side. In this embodiment, a transmission direction regulating circuit is provided for each wiring for transmitting a control signal in the relay board 15, and an output buffer circuit is provided between the game control microcomputer 100 and the main board side connector on the main board 11. By providing this, it is possible to prevent an illegal signal from being input to the main board 11 from the outside.

  The control command transmitted from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12 via the relay board 15 is, for example, an effect control command transmitted and received as an electric signal. The effect control command includes, for example, a display control command used for controlling an image display operation in the image display device 5, a voice control command used for controlling sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R, and a game effect lamp 9. And a lamp control command used for controlling the lighting operation of the decoration LED and the like.

  FIG. 3A is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the contents of the effect control command used in this embodiment. The effect control command has, for example, a 2-byte structure, and the first byte indicates MODE (command classification), and the second byte indicates EXT (command type). The first bit (bit 7) of the MODE data is always “1”, and the first bit of the EXT data is “0”. Note that the command form shown in FIG. 3A is an example, and other command forms may be used. In this example, the control command is composed of two control signals. However, the number of control signals constituting the control command may be one or a plurality of three or more.

  In the example shown in FIG. 3A, the command 8001H is a first change start command for designating start of change in a special figure game using the first special figure in the first special symbol display device 4A. Command 8002H is a second variation start command for designating the start of variation in a special symbol game using the second special symbol in second special symbol display device 4B. The command 81XXH is a decoration that is variably displayed in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decoration symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R in the image display device 5 in response to the variable display of the special symbol in the special symbol game. This is a variation pattern designation command for designating a variation pattern such as a symbol. Here, XXH indicates an unspecified hexadecimal number, and may be a value arbitrarily set according to the instruction content by the effect control command. In the variation pattern designation command, different EXT data is set according to the variation pattern to be designated.

  Command 8CXXH is a variable display result notification command for designating a variable display result such as a special symbol or a decorative symbol. In the variable display result notification command, for example, as shown in FIG. 3B, the determination result (predetermined result) whether the variable display result is “lost” or “big hit”, and the variable display result is “big hit”. The different EXT data is set in accordance with the determination result (the jackpot type determination result) as to which of a plurality of types of jackpot types in the case of "". More specifically, the command 8C00H is a first variable display result notification command indicating a pre-determined result indicating that the variable display result is “lost”. The command 8C01H is a second variable display result notification command for notifying a pre-determined result and a big hit type determination result that the variable display result is “big hit” and the big hit type is “non-probable change”. The command 8C02H is a third variable display result notification command for notifying the advance determination result that the variable display result is “big hit” and the big hit type is “probable change” and the big hit type determination result. The command 8C03H is a fourth variable display result notification command for notifying a pre-determined result and a big hit type determination result that the variable display result is “big hit” and the big hit type is “surprise”. The command 8C04H is a fifth variable display result notification command indicating a predetermined result indicating that the variable display result is “small hit”.

  The command 8F00H is a symbol confirmation command for designating the change stop (determination) of decorative symbols in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R in the image display device 5. The command 95XXH is a gaming state designation command for designating the current gaming state in the pachinko gaming machine 1.

  The command A0XXH is a hit start designation command (also referred to as a “fanfare command”) that designates display of an effect image indicating the start of a big hit gaming state or a small hit gaming state. The command A1XXH is a big winning opening releasing notification command for notifying that the big winning opening is a period in the big winning gaming state or the small winning gaming state. The command A2XXH is a notification command after opening the big winning opening that notifies that the big winning opening has changed from the open state to the closed state in the big hit gaming state or the small hit gaming state. Command A3XXH is a hit end designation command for designating display of an effect image at the end of the big hit gaming state or the small hit gaming state.

  The command B100H is based on the fact that the game ball that has passed (entered) the first start winning opening formed by the normal winning ball apparatus 6A is detected by the first start opening switch 22A and a start winning (first start winning) has occurred. The first start opening prize designation command for notifying that the first start condition for executing the special figure game using the first special figure in the first special symbol display device 4A is established. The command B200H indicates that the game ball that has passed (entered) the second start winning opening formed by the normally variable winning ball apparatus 6B is detected by the second start opening switch 22B and a start winning (second start winning) has occurred. Based on this, the second start opening prize designation command is used to notify that the second start condition for executing the special figure game using the second special figure in the second special symbol display device 4B is established. Command C0XXH is a total hold that is the total value of the first special figure hold memory number and the second special figure hold memory number in order to display the special figure hold memory number in a start winning memory display area 5H or the like. This is a pending storage number notification command for notifying the storage number.

  The game control microcomputer 100 mounted on the main board 11 is, for example, a one-chip microcomputer, and includes a ROM (Read Only Memory) 101 for storing a game control program, fixed data, and the like, and a game control work. A RAM (Random Access Memory) 102 that provides an area, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 103 that executes a control program by executing a game control program, and updates numeric data indicating random values independently of the CPU 103 A random number circuit 104 to perform and an I / O (Input / Output port) 105 are provided.

  As an example, in the game control microcomputer 100, a process for controlling the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1 is executed by the CPU 103 executing a program read from the ROM 101. At this time, the CPU 103 reads fixed data from the ROM 101, the CPU 103 writes various fluctuation data to the RAM 102 and temporarily stores the fluctuation data, and the CPU 103 temporarily stores the various fluctuation data. The CPU 103 receives the input of various signals from outside the game control microcomputer 100 via the I / O 105, and the CPU 103 goes outside the game control microcomputer 100 via the I / O 105. A transmission operation for outputting various signals is also performed.

  FIG. 4 is an explanatory view illustrating random numbers counted on the main board 11 side. As shown in FIG. 4, in this embodiment, on the side of the main board 11, a random value MR1 for determining a special figure display result, a random value MR2 for determining a jackpot type, a random value MR3 for determining a variation pattern type, Numerical data indicating the random number value MR4 for determining the variation pattern and the random value MR5 for determining the normal display result are controlled to be countable. In addition, in order to improve a game effect, random numbers other than these may be used. Such random numbers used to control the progress of the game are also referred to as game random numbers.

  The random number circuit 104 only needs to count numerical data indicating some or all of these random number values MR1 to MR5. The CPU 103 uses the random counter different from the random number circuit 104 such as a random counter provided in the game control counter setting unit 154 shown in FIG. Numerical data indicating a part of MR5 may be counted.

  The random value MR1 for determining the special figure display result is determined whether the variable display result of the special symbol or the like in the special figure game is controlled as a big hit game state, whether the variable display result is "small hit" or not. This is a random value used for determining whether or not to control the gaming state, and takes a value in the range of “1” to “65535”, for example. The random number MR2 for determining the jackpot type determines the jackpot type, which is the variable display mode of the decorative symbol when the variable display result is “big hit”, as one of “non-probability change”, “probability change”, and “surprise change”. For example, a value in the range of “1” to “100”.

  The random value MR3 for determining the variation pattern type is a random value used to determine the variation pattern type in the variable display of the special symbol or the decorative symbol as one of a plurality of types prepared in advance. For example, “1” A value in the range of “251” is taken. The random number MR4 for determining the variation pattern is a random value used to determine the variation pattern in the variable display of the special symbol or the decorative symbol as one of a plurality of types prepared in advance. For example, “1” to “ It takes a value in the range of “997”. The random value MR5 for determining the general-purpose display result is used for determining whether the variable display result in the general-purpose game by the normal symbol display 20 is “per-normal” or “unusual for general-purpose”. For example, a value in the range of “3” to “13”.

  FIG. 5 shows a variation pattern in this embodiment. In this embodiment, among the cases where the variable display result is “losing”, the variable display mode of the decorative design is “non-reach” and “reach”, respectively. Corresponding to the case where the display result is “big hit”, a plurality of variation patterns are prepared in advance. The variation pattern corresponding to the case where the variable display result is “losing” and the decorative symbol variable display mode is “non-reach” is called a non-reach variation pattern (also referred to as “non-reach loss variation pattern”) and is variable. The variation pattern corresponding to the case where the display result is “losing” and the decorative symbol variable display mode is “reach” is referred to as a reach variation pattern (also referred to as “reach loss variation pattern”). Further, the non-reach variation pattern and the reach variation pattern are included in the loss variation pattern corresponding to the case where the variable display result is “lost”. A variation pattern corresponding to the case where the variable display result is “big hit” is referred to as a big hit variation pattern.

  The big hit fluctuation pattern and the reach fluctuation pattern include a normal reach fluctuation pattern in which a normal reach reach effect is executed and a super reach change pattern in which a super reach reach effect such as super reach α or super reach β is executed. A variation pattern corresponding to the case where the variable display result is “small hit” is referred to as a small hit variation pattern. The big hit variation pattern and the small hit variation pattern are included in the hit variation pattern corresponding to the case where the variable display result is “big hit” or “small hit”.

  FIG. 6 shows the variation pattern type in this embodiment. Each variation pattern shown in FIG. 5 is included in at least one variation pattern type among the plurality of variation pattern types shown in FIG. That is, if each variation pattern type is configured to include a single or a plurality of variation patterns classified (grouped) based on, for example, a mode of a rendering operation performed during variable display of decorative symbols, etc. Good.

  As an example, a variation pattern type that includes a variation pattern in which a variable display state of a decorative design does not become a reach state by classifying (grouping) a plurality of variation patterns according to the type of reach effect (effect mode), and a variation with normal reach What is necessary is just to divide into the fluctuation pattern classification in which a pattern is included, and the fluctuation pattern classification in which a fluctuation pattern with a super reach (super reach α or super reach β) is included. Further, the variation patterns with super reach may be classified into different variation pattern types according to the contents of the reach effect (for example, whether it is super reach α or super reach β). Or you may make it classify | categorize into a different variation pattern classification according to whether a predetermined variable display production is performed or not. As another example, a plurality of variation patterns may be classified (grouped) according to the variable display time of decorative symbols. Among the plurality of variation pattern types, there may be one configured to include a common variation pattern.

  As shown in FIG. 6, one or a plurality of variation patterns are classified into each variation pattern type according to the variable display mode and the variable display content. The specific classification of the variation pattern shown in FIG. 5 can be specified from the setting of the variation pattern determination table 134 as shown in FIG. 11, for example. That is, in the variation pattern determination table 134, variation patterns to which a determination value is assigned according to each variation pattern type are classified so as to be included in the variation pattern type.

  In addition to the game control program, the ROM 101 included in the game control microcomputer 100 shown in FIG. 2 stores various selection data and table data used for controlling the progress of the game. . For example, the ROM 101 stores data constituting a plurality of determination tables, determination tables, setting tables and the like prepared for the CPU 103 to perform various determinations, determinations, and settings. Further, the ROM 101 stores a plurality of types of table data constituting a plurality of command tables used for the CPU 103 to transmit control signals serving as various control commands from the main board 11, and a variation pattern as shown in FIG. Table data constituting a variation pattern table to be stored is stored.

  FIG. 7 shows an example of the configuration of the special figure display result determination table stored in the ROM 101. In this embodiment, as the special figure display result decision table, a first special figure display result decision table 130A shown in FIG. 7A and a second special figure display result decision table 130B shown in FIG. Are prepared in advance. The first special figure display result determination table 130A has a variable display result before a fixed special symbol that is a variable display result is derived and displayed in the special figure game using the first special figure by the first special symbol display device 4A. Whether or not to control the big hit gaming state as "big hit" and whether to control the small hit game state as "small hit" based on the random value MR1 for determining the special figure display result It is a table that is referenced to determine. The second special figure display result determination table 130B shows the variable display result before the fixed special symbol that becomes the variable display result is derived and displayed in the special figure game using the second special figure by the second special symbol display device 4B. Whether or not to control the big hit gaming state as "big hit" and whether to control the small hit game state as "small hit" based on the random value MR1 for determining the special figure display result It is a table that is referenced to determine.

  In the first special figure display result determination table 130A, a special figure display is made depending on whether the gaming state in the pachinko gaming machine 1 is a normal state, a short time state (low accuracy state), or a probability variation state (high accuracy state). A numerical value (determined value) to be compared with the random number MR1 for determining the result is assigned to the special figure display results of “big hit”, “small hit”, and “losing”. In the second special figure display result determination table 130B, depending on whether the gaming state is a normal state, a short-time state (low probability state), or a probability variation state (high probability state), the special figure display result determination table 130B A numerical value (determined value) to be compared with the numerical value MR1 is assigned to the special figure display result of “big hit” or “losing”.

  In the first special figure display result decision table 130A and the second special figure display result decision table 130B, the table data indicating the decision value to be compared with the random value MR1 for special figure display result decision indicates the special figure display result as “big hit”. ”Is data for determination assigned to the determination result as to whether or not to control to the big hit gaming state. In each of the first special figure display result determination table 130A and the second special figure display result determination table 130B, when the gaming state is the probability variation state (high probability state), the normal state or the short time state (low probability state). More decision values are assigned to the “big hit” special figure display result. As a result, in the probability variation state (high probability state) in which the probability variation control is performed in the pachinko gaming machine 1, the special figure display result is “big hit” compared to the normal state or the short time state (low probability state). If the state is controlled, the probability of being determined increases. That is, in each of the first special figure display result determination table 130A and the second special figure display result determination table 130B, when the gaming state in the pachinko gaming machine 1 is in a probabilistic state, compared to when it is in a normal state or a short time state Therefore, the determination data is assigned to the determination result as to whether or not to control the jackpot gaming state so that the probability of being determined to control the jackpot gaming state increases.

  In the setting example of the first special figure display result determination table 130A, a predetermined range of determination values (a value in the range of “30000” to “30099”) is assigned to the special figure display result of “small hit”. On the other hand, in the setting example of the second special figure display result determination table 130B, the determination value is not assigned to the special figure display result of “small hit”. With such a setting, the variable display result is determined based on the fact that the first start condition for starting the special figure game using the first special figure by the first special symbol display device 4A is satisfied, The case where the variable display result is determined based on the fact that the second start condition for starting the special figure game using the second special figure by the second special symbol display device 4B is established. The ratio determined to be controlled in the small hit gaming state as “small hit” can be varied.

  In particular, in the special figure game using the second special figure, it is not determined that the special figure display result is “small hit” and the small hit game state is controlled. In a gaming state in which a game ball is likely to enter the second start winning opening formed by the normally variable winning ball device 6B, such as a state (highly accurate high base state), frequent occurrence of a small hit gaming state in which it is difficult to obtain a prize ball By avoiding this, it is possible to prevent a decrease in gaming interests due to an extended game. In the second special figure display result determination table 130B, a predetermined range of determination values different from the settings in the first special figure display result determination table 130A are assigned to the special chart display result of “small hit”. Also good. For example, in the second special figure display result determination table 130B, a smaller determination value than the first special figure display result determination table 130A may be assigned to the “small hit” special figure display result. In this way, when the high base state such as the short-time state or the probability change state is set, the proportion determined to be controlled in the small hit gaming state may be lower than when the low base state such as the normal state or the short-time probability change state is used. Good. Alternatively, regardless of which of the first start condition and the second start condition is satisfied, the special figure display result may be determined with reference to the common special figure display result determination table.

  FIG. 8 shows a configuration example of the jackpot type determination table 131 stored in the ROM 101. The jackpot type determination table 131 determines the jackpot type as one of a plurality of types based on the random number MR2 for determining the jackpot type when it is determined that the special figure display result is “big hit” and the game state is controlled to the jackpot game state. This is a table to be referred to. In the jackpot type determination table 131, the special symbol that is variably displayed (changed) in the special symbol game is the first special symbol (the special symbol game by the first special symbol display device 4A) or the second special symbol (second). Depending on whether it is a special symbol game by the special symbol display device 4B, the numerical value (decision value) compared with the random value MR2 for determining the big hit type is a plurality of values such as “non-probability change”, “probability change”, and “surprise change”. Assigned to the type of jackpot type.

  In the setting example of the big hit type determination table 131, the assignment of the decision value to the big hit type of “surprise” differs depending on whether the variation special chart is the first special figure or the second special figure. That is, when the fluctuation special chart is the first special figure, the predetermined value (the value in the range of “82” to “99”) is assigned to the big hit type of “surprise”, while the fluctuation special figure Is the second special figure, no decision value is assigned to the big hit type of “surprise”. With such a setting, the jackpot type is determined as one of a plurality of types based on the fact that the first start condition for starting the special figure game using the first special figure by the first special symbol display device 4A is satisfied. And determining the jackpot type as one of a plurality of types based on the fact that the second start condition for starting the special figure game using the second special figure by the second special symbol display device 4B is satisfied. Thus, the rate at which the jackpot type is determined to be “surprising” can be varied.

  In particular, in the special figure game using the second special figure, it is not determined that the big hit type is “surprise” and the short-open big hit state is controlled. In the gaming state where the game ball is likely to enter the second start winning opening formed by 6B, it is possible to avoid the frequent occurrence of the short-term open big hit state where it is difficult to obtain the prize ball, and to prevent a decrease in the game interest due to the extended game . Even when the fluctuation special chart is the second special figure, a predetermined range of determined values different from the case where the fluctuation special figure is the first special figure may be assigned to the “surprise” jackpot type. Good. For example, when the fluctuation special chart is the second special figure, a smaller decision value may be assigned to the “surprise” jackpot type than when the fluctuation special chart is the first special figure. Alternatively, regardless of whether the fluctuation special chart is the first special chart or the second special chart, the jackpot type may be determined with reference to the common table data.

  9 and 10 show examples of the configuration of the variation pattern type determination table stored in the ROM 101. FIG. In this embodiment, as the variation pattern type determination table, the big hit variation pattern type determination table 132A shown in FIG. 9A, the small hit variation pattern type determination table 132B shown in FIG. 9B, and FIG. The loss variation pattern type determination table (normal time) 133A shown in FIG. 10B and the loss variation pattern type determination table (during time reduction control) 133B shown in FIG.

  The jackpot variation pattern type determination table 132A, when it is determined (predetermined) that the special figure display result is “big hit”, the variation pattern type is changed according to the determination result of the jackpot type. This is a table that is referred to in order to determine one of a plurality of types based on the numerical value MR3. In the jackpot variation pattern type determination table 132A, a numerical value to be compared with the random value MR3 for determining the variation pattern type depending on whether the determination result of the jackpot type is “non-probability change”, “probability change”, or “surprising change”. (Determined value) is assigned to any one of the variation pattern type CA3-1 to variation pattern type CA3-3, variation pattern type CA4-1, and variation pattern type CA4-2.

  In the jackpot variation pattern type determination table 132A, the determined value is assigned to each variation pattern type so that the ratio determined for each variation pattern type differs depending on which of the plurality of types of jackpot types is determined. There is a part. For example, depending on whether the big hit type is “non-probable change” or “probability change”, the assignment of the decision value to the variation pattern type CA3-1 to variation pattern type CA3-3 differs. Thereby, the ratio determined to the same variation pattern type can be varied according to the determination result as to which of the multiple types of jackpot types.

  Further, in the jackpot variation pattern type determination table 132A, there is a portion in which the determined values are assigned to different variation pattern types depending on which of the plurality of types of jackpot types is determined. For example, when the big hit type is “non-probable change” or “probability change”, the decision value is assigned to the variation pattern type CA3-1 to the variation pattern type CA3-3, while the variation pattern type CA4- No determination value is assigned to 1 and the variation pattern type CA4-2. On the other hand, when the big hit type is “surprise”, the decision value is assigned to the variation pattern type CA4-1 and the variation pattern type CA4-2, while the variation pattern type CA3-1 to CA4-2. No decision value is assigned to the variation pattern type CA3-3. As a result, when the special figure display result is “big hit” and the big hit type is controlled to the short-term open big hit state according to “surprise”, the fluctuation pattern type different from the case of being controlled to the normal open big hit state is determined. can do.

  When the big hit type is determined as “non-probability change”, “probability change”, or “surprise change”, depending on whether the game state in the pachinko gaming machine 1 is a normal state, a probability change state, or a short-time state Thus, the assignment of the decision value to each variation pattern type may be made different. Thereby, the ratio determined to the same fluctuation | variation pattern classification can be varied according to which of a plurality of types of gaming states. Also, when the big hit type is determined as “non-probability change”, “probability change”, or “surprise change”, depending on whether the gaming state in the pachinko gaming machine 1 is a normal state, a probability change state, or a short-time state Thus, the determined values may be assigned to different variation pattern types. Thereby, it is possible to determine different variation pattern types depending on which of the plurality of types of gaming states.

  When the loss variation pattern type determination table (normal time) 133A and the loss variation pattern type determination table (during time reduction control) 133B are determined (predetermined) to set the special figure display result to “lost”, the variation pattern type Is a table referred to for determining one of a plurality of types based on the random value MR3 for determining the variation pattern type. Here, the loss variation pattern type determination table (normal time) 133A is selected as a use table when the gaming state is the normal state, for example. On the other hand, the loss variation pattern type determination table (during time reduction control) 133B is selected as a usage table corresponding to the fact that the time reduction control is performed, for example, when the gaming state is the probability change state or the time reduction state. .

  In the loss variation pattern type determination table (normal time) 133A and the loss variation pattern type determination table (during time reduction control) 133B, the determined values are set to the respective variation pattern types so that the ratios determined for the respective variation pattern types are different from each other. There is an assigned part. Thereby, the ratio determined for the same variation pattern type can be varied depending on whether the gaming state is the normal state or the time-varying control in the probability variation state or the time-short state.

  In the loss variation pattern type determination table (normal time) 133A and the loss variation pattern type determination table (during time reduction control) 133B, there are portions where determination values are assigned to different variation pattern types. As a result, different variation pattern types can be determined depending on whether the gaming state is the normal state or the time variation control is being performed in the probability variation state or the time shortening state.

  FIG. 11 shows a configuration example of the variation pattern determination table 134 stored in the ROM 101. The variation pattern determination table 134 is a table that is referred to in order to determine a variation pattern as one of a plurality of types based on the variation pattern determination random value MR4 in accordance with the variation pattern type determination result. In the variation pattern determination table 134, a numerical value (decision value) to be compared with the random value MR4 for variation pattern determination is assigned to a single or a plurality of variation patterns according to the variation pattern type.

  The RAM 102 included in the game control microcomputer 100 shown in FIG. 2 may be a backup RAM that is partially or entirely backed up by a backup power supply created on a predetermined power supply board. That is, even if the power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 1 is stopped, a part or all of the contents of the RAM 102 is stored for a predetermined period (until the capacitor as the backup power supply is discharged and the backup power supply cannot be supplied). The In particular, at least data corresponding to the game state, that is, the control state of the game control means (such as a special figure process flag) and data indicating the number of unpaid prize balls may be stored in the backup RAM. The data corresponding to the control state of the game control means is data necessary for restoring the control state before the occurrence of a power failure or the like based on the data when the power is restored after a power failure or the like occurs. Further, data corresponding to the control state and data indicating the number of unpaid prize balls are defined as data indicating the progress state of the game.

  The RAM 102 is provided with a game control data holding area 150 as shown in FIG. 12, for example, as an area for holding various data used for controlling the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1. Yes. The game control data holding area 150 shown in FIG. 12 includes a special figure holding storage unit 151A, a universal figure holding storage unit 151B, a game control flag setting unit 152, a game control timer setting unit 153, and a game control counter setting unit. 154 and a game control buffer setting unit 155.

  The special figure holding storage unit 151A satisfies the first start condition when the game ball passes (enters) through the first start winning opening formed by the normal winning ball apparatus 6A and a start winning (first start winning) is generated. However, the hold data of the special figure game (the special figure game using the first special figure in the first special symbol display device 4A) in which the first start condition is not established, or the second variable formed by the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B. A special game (second special) in which the second start condition is satisfied but the second start condition is not satisfied when the game ball passes (enters) through the start winning opening and a start winning (second start winning) occurs. The holding data of the special figure game using the second special figure in the symbol display device 4B is stored. As an example, the special figure holding storage unit 151A associates with the holding number in the winning order (game ball detection order) to the first starting winning port and the second starting winning port, and passes the game ball through (entry). The random number value MR1 for determining the special figure display result, the random number value MR2 for determining the big hit type, and the disturbance for determining the variation pattern type, which are extracted from the random number circuit 104 by the CPU 103 based on the establishment of the first start condition and the second start condition. The numerical data indicating the numerical value MR3 and the like are stored as pending data until the storage number reaches a predetermined upper limit storage number. The holding data in the special figure holding storage unit 151A includes the first special figure holding memory number and the second special figure holding memory number when the first special figure holding memory number or the second special figure holding memory number reaches "4". When both numbers are “4” and the total number of reserved storage reaches “8”, the upper limit storage number is reached.

  Further, in this embodiment, the start port data indicating whether the game ball has passed (entered) through the first start winning port or the second start winning port is also included in the hold data, and is associated with the hold number. It is stored in the figure holding storage unit 151A. As an example, the special figure reservation storage unit 151A indicates start port data indicating “1” corresponding to winning in the first start winning port, or “2” corresponding to winning in the second starting winning port. The starting port data is stored in association with the hold number according to the winning order of each game ball. In addition, the hold data (first hold data) based on the establishment of the first start condition due to the game ball passing (entering) through the first start winning opening and the game ball passing (entering) through the second start winning opening The hold data (second hold data) based on the establishment of the second start condition may be stored in association with the hold number in a separate hold storage unit. In this case, a starting port data storage unit is provided for storing the starting port data in association with the holding number according to the winning order of each game ball, and the starting condition is established for the special game corresponding to each holding data. What is necessary is just to make it possible to specify the order.

  Alternatively, when the special symbol game in the second special symbol display device 4B is executed with priority over the special symbol game in the first special symbol display device 4A, if valid second reserved data is stored, The special game corresponding to the second reserved data is executed, and only when the valid second reserved data is not stored, the special game corresponding to the first reserved data may be executed. In this case, the start port data storage unit may not be provided.

  The usual figure holding storage unit 151 </ b> B stores the holding information of the usual figure game that has not yet been started by the normal symbol display 20 even though the game ball that has passed through the passage gate 41 is detected by the gate switch 21. For example, the common figure hold storage unit 151B associates the hold numbers with the hold numbers in the order in which the game balls have passed through the passing gate 41, and determines the common figure display result extracted from the random number circuit 104 or the like by the CPU 103 based on the passage of the game balls. For example, numerical data indicating the random number MR5 is stored as pending data until the number reaches a predetermined upper limit (for example, “4”).

  The game control flag setting unit 152 is provided with a plurality of types of flags that can be updated in accordance with the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1. For example, the game control flag setting unit 152 stores data indicating a flag value and data indicating an on state or an off state for each of a plurality of types of flags.

  The game control timer setting unit 153 is provided with various timers used for controlling the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1. For example, the game control timer setting unit 153 stores data indicating timer values for each of a plurality of types of timers.

  The game control counter setting unit 154 is provided with a plurality of types of counters for counting the count values used for controlling the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1. For example, the game control counter setting unit 154 stores data indicating the count value in each of a plurality of types of counters.

  Here, the game control counter setting unit 154 may be provided with a random counter for the CPU 103 to count part or all of the game random numbers so that the software 103 can be updated by software. For example, in the random counter of the game control counter setting unit 154, numerical data indicating the random number values MR2 to MR5 is stored as a random count value, and each random number is randomly or irregularly set according to the execution of software by the CPU 103. The numerical data indicating the numerical value is updated. The software executed by the CPU 103 to update the random count value may be for updating the random count value separately from the numerical data update operation in the random number circuit 104, or may be extracted from the random number circuit 104. The random count value may be updated by performing predetermined processing such as scramble processing or arithmetic processing on a part or all of the numerical data.

  The game control buffer setting unit 155 is provided with various buffers that temporarily store data used for controlling the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1. For example, the game control buffer setting unit 155 stores data indicating buffer values in each of a plurality of types of buffers.

  The I / O 105 included in the game control microcomputer 100 shown in FIG. 2 has an input port for taking in various signals transmitted to the game control microcomputer 100, and various signals to the outside of the game control microcomputer 100. And an output port for transmission.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the effect control board 12 is provided with an effect control CPU 120 that performs a control operation according to a program, a ROM 121 that stores an effect control program, fixed data, and the like, and a work area for the effect control CPU 120. Random number for updating numerical data indicating random numbers independently of the RAM 122, the display control unit 123 for executing processing for determining the control content of the display operation in the image display device 5, and the effect control CPU 120 A circuit 124 and an I / O 125 are mounted.

  As an example, in the effect control board 12, when the effect control CPU 120 executes an effect control program read from the ROM 121, a process for controlling the effect operation by the effect electric component is executed. At this time, the effect control CPU 120 reads the fixed data from the ROM 121, the effect control CPU 120 writes the various data to the RAM 122 and temporarily stores them, and the effect control CPU 120 stores the effect data in the RAM 122. Fluctuation data reading operation for reading out various fluctuation data temporarily stored, the reception control CPU 120 for receiving the input of various signals from the outside of the presentation control board 12 via the I / O 125, and the presentation control CPU 120 for I / O A transmission operation for outputting various signals to the outside of the effect control board 12 via O125 is also performed. The effect control CPU 120, the ROM 121, and the RAM 122 may be included in a one-chip effect control microcomputer mounted on the effect control board 12.

  In the effect control board 12, wiring for transmitting a video signal to the image display device 5, wiring for transmitting a sound effect signal as an information signal indicating sound number data to the sound control board 13, Wiring for transmitting an electrical decoration signal as an information signal indicating lamp data is connected to the lamp control board 14. The effect control board 12 is also connected to wiring for transmitting a video signal (captured image data) from the camera. Furthermore, on the effect control board 12, wiring for transmitting an operation detection signal as an information signal indicating that the player's operation action on the stick controller 31A has been detected from the controller sensor unit 35A, and on the push button 31B. A wiring for transmitting an operation detection signal as an information signal indicating that the player's operation action has been detected from the push sensor 35B is also connected.

  On the effect control board 12, for example, the random number circuit 124 or the like counts the numerical data indicating various random values used for controlling the effect operation so as to be updatable. The random number used for controlling such a production operation is also called a production random number.

  In addition to the effect control program, the ROM 121 mounted on the effect control board 12 shown in FIG. 2 stores various data tables used for controlling the effect operation. For example, the ROM 121 includes a plurality of determination tables prepared for the effect control CPU 120 to perform various determinations, determinations, and settings, table data configuring the determination table, pattern data configuring various effect control patterns, and the like. It is remembered.

  As an example, in the ROM 121, the effect control CPU 120 controls the effect operations by various effect devices (for example, the image display device 5, speakers 8L and 8R, the game effect lamp 9, the decoration LED, the effect model, etc.). An effect control pattern table storing a plurality of types of effect control patterns to be used is stored. The effect control pattern is composed of data indicating the control contents corresponding to various effect operations executed in accordance with the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1. The effect control pattern table only needs to store, for example, an effect control pattern during special figure change, a notice effect control pattern, and various effect control patterns.

  The special-control variation production control pattern corresponds to a plurality of types of variation patterns in the period from the start of the variation of the special symbol in the special-sign game until the finalized special symbol that is the special-sign display result is derived and displayed. Consists of data indicating the contents of control of various effect operations, such as effect display operations in decorative symbol variable display operations, reach effects, re-lottery effects, etc., or various effect display operations that do not involve variable display of decorative symbols Has been. The notice effect control pattern is composed of data indicating the control content of the effect operation that becomes the notice effect executed in response to the notice pattern in which a plurality of patterns are prepared in advance. The various effect control patterns are composed of data indicating the control contents corresponding to various effect operations executed in accordance with the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1.

  FIG. 13A shows a configuration example of each effect control pattern. In the configuration example shown in FIG. 13A, the effect control pattern is derived from process data including, for example, an effect control process timer determination value, display control data, sound control data, lamp control data, operation detection control data, an end code, and the like. It is configured.

  The effect control process timer determination value is a value (determination value) that is compared with an effect control process timer value that is a stored value of the effect control process timer provided in the effect control timer setting unit 192, and executes each effect operation. A determination value corresponding to the time (effect time) is set in advance. In place of the effect control process timer determination value, for example, a predetermined effect control command is received from the main board 11, or a predetermined process is executed as a process for controlling the effect operation in the effect control CPU 120. The data indicating the switching timing of the production control may be set corresponding to the predetermined control content and processing content.

  The display control data includes data indicating the display mode of the effect image on the screen of the image display device 5 such as data indicating the variation mode of each decorative symbol during variable display of the decorative symbol. That is, the display control data is data that designates the display operation of the effect image on the screen of the image display device 5.

  The voice control data includes data indicating the voice output mode from the speakers 8L and 8R, such as data indicating the output mode of sound effects in conjunction with the variable display operation of the decorative symbol during variable display of the decorative symbol, for example. Yes. That is, the audio control data is data that designates an audio output operation from the speakers 8L and 8R.

  The lamp control data includes data indicating a lighting operation mode of the light emitter, such as a game effect lamp 9 and a decoration LED. That is, the lamp control data is data for designating the lighting operation of the light emitter.

  The operation detection control data includes, for example, an operation effective period for effectively detecting a tilting operation with respect to the operation rod of the stick controller 31A and an instruction operation for the trigger button, an operation effective period for effectively detecting an instruction operation for the push button 31B, Data indicating an effect operation mode according to the player's operation action, such as data designating the control content of the effect operation when each operation is detected effectively, is included.

  Note that these control data do not have to be included in all the effect control patterns, but an effect control pattern including a part of the control data according to the contents of the effect operation by each effect control pattern. There may be. Further, in the plural types of process data included in the effect control pattern, the types of control data constituting each process data may be different according to the contents of the effect operation executed at each timing. That is, there may be process data configured to include all of the display control data, sound control data, lamp control data, and operation detection control data, or process data configured to include a part of these. Furthermore, other various control data such as, for example, the movable member control data for production indicating the operation mode of the movable member included in the production model may be included.

  FIG. 13B shows various effect operations executed according to the contents of the effect control pattern. The production control CPU 120 determines the control content of the production operation according to various control data included in the production control pattern. For example, when the production control process timer value matches one of the production control process timer determination values, the decorative design is displayed in a manner specified by the display control data associated with the production control process timer determination value, and the character Control is performed to display effect images such as images and background images on the screen of the image display device 5.

  In addition, control is performed to output sound from the speakers 8L and 8R in a manner specified by the sound control data, and control is performed to blink a light emitter such as a game effect lamp 9 or a decoration LED in a manner specified by the lamp control data. Control is performed to determine the content of the effect by accepting an operation on the stick controller 31A or the push button 31B in the operation valid period specified by the operation detection control data. Note that dummy data (data not specifying control) may be set as data corresponding to a production component that does not become a control target even though it corresponds to the production control process timer determination value.

  The rendering operation shown in FIG. 13B corresponds to the entire period from the start of the change of the decorative design to the final stop, but is not limited to this, and during the variable display of the decorative design An effect control pattern for executing an effect operation corresponding to a part of the period (for example, a period of executing the notice effect) may be provided. Alternatively, in order to execute the presentation operation corresponding to a predetermined period other than the variable display of the decorative symbols (for example, a period in which a round is being executed in the jackpot gaming state, a period in which an ending effect is executed at the end of the jackpot gaming state, etc.) The effect control pattern may be provided.

  The effect control CPU 120 sets an effect control pattern (special-figure variation effect control pattern) based on the variation pattern indicated in the variation pattern designation command, for example, when starting variable display of decorative symbols. The effect control CPU 120 sets a corresponding effect control pattern (notice effect control pattern), for example, when execution of a predetermined effect such as a notice effect is started. Here, when setting the effect control pattern, the pattern data constituting the corresponding effect control pattern may be read from the ROM 121 and temporarily stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 122, or the corresponding effect control pattern is configured. The storage address of the pattern data in the ROM 121 may be temporarily stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 122, and the reading position of the storage data in the ROM 121 may be designated.

  After that, every time the production control process timer value is updated, it is determined whether or not it matches any of the production control process timer judgment values. If they match, the production operation according to the corresponding various control data Control. In this way, the effect control CPU 120 performs effect devices (image display device 5, speakers 8L and 8R, game effect lamps) according to the contents of process data # 1 to process data #n (n is an arbitrary integer) included in the effect control pattern. 9 and a light emitting body such as a decoration LED, a movable member provided in the production model, etc.). In each process data # 1 to process data #n, display control data # 1 to display control data #n and voice control data # 1 to voice control associated with production control process timer determination values # 1 to #n are provided. Data #n, lamp control data # 1 to lamp control data #n, and operation detection control data # 1 to operation detection control data #n indicate the control content of the rendering operation in the rendering device and specify the execution of the rendering control. Control execution data # 1 to production control execution data #n are configured. A command according to the production control pattern set in this way is output from the production control CPU 120 to the display control unit 123, the audio control board 13, and the like.

  In the display control unit 123 that has received a command from the effect control CPU 120, for example, a predetermined VDP or the like is developed by reading out image data indicated by the command from an image data memory such as CGROM and temporarily storing it in the VRAM. On the voice control board 13 that has received a command from the effect control CPU 120, for example, the voice synthesis IC reads out the voice data indicated by the command from the voice data ROM and temporarily stores it in the voice RAM or the like. .

  The RAM 122 mounted on the effect control board 12 shown in FIG. 2 is provided with an effect control data holding area 190 as shown in FIG. 14, for example, as an area for holding various data used for controlling the effect operation. ing. The effect control data holding area 190 shown in FIG. 14 includes an effect control flag setting unit 191, an effect control timer setting unit 192, an effect control counter setting unit 193, and an effect control buffer setting unit 194.

  The effect control flag setting unit 191 has a plurality of types whose states can be updated according to the effect operation state such as the display state of the effect image on the screen of the image display device 5, the effect control command transmitted from the main board 11, and the like. The flag is provided. For example, the effect control flag setting unit 191 stores data indicating the value of the flag and data indicating the on state or the off state for each of the plurality of types of flags.

  The effect control timer setting unit 192 is provided with a plurality of types of timers used for controlling the progress of various effect operations such as, for example, an effect image display operation on the screen of the image display device 5. For example, the production control timer setting unit 192 stores data indicating timer values in each of a plurality of types of timers.

  The effect control counter setting unit 193 is provided with a plurality of types of counters used for controlling the progress of various effect operations. For example, the production control counter setting unit 193 stores data indicating the count value in each of a plurality of types of counters.

  The effect control buffer setting unit 194 is provided with various buffers that temporarily store data used for controlling the progress of various effect operations. For example, the effect control buffer setting unit 194 stores data indicating buffer values in each of a plurality of types of buffers.

  The display control unit 123 mounted on the effect control board 12 includes an image processing processor, an image processing data memory, a VRAM (Video RAM), and the like. The image processor is configured using, for example, a VDP (Video Display Processor), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), a GCL (Graphics Controller LSI), or a microprocessor more generally called a DSP (Digital Signal Processor). The image display device 5 has an image data processing function such as a high-speed rendering function and a moving image decoding function for displaying various images in the display area, and executes image data processing in accordance with a display control command from the effect control CPU 120. To do.

  Further, in this embodiment, for example, the original image data such as the captured image data transmitted from the camera 33 is subjected to a predetermined deformation process so that the display differs from the original image represented by the original image data. Part or all of the processing for generating the display image data representing the target image is executed by the image processor. It should be noted that the deformation processing that changes the aspect of the display target from the original image may be executed in cooperation between the effect control CPU 120 and the image processing processor of the display control unit 123. The image processor may be provided in the display control unit 123 independently of the effect control CPU 120 and may be externally attached to the effect control CPU 120, or may be an internal configuration of the effect control CPU 120. There may be.

  The image processing data memory is configured by using a non-volatile recording medium such as a semiconductor memory such as a flash memory, a magnetic memory, or an optical memory, and is used for displaying various images in the display area of the image display device 5. A plurality of types of image data and setting data used for executing various image processes are stored in advance. For example, the image data stored in the image processing data memory includes a plurality of types of image data corresponding to a plurality of types of effect images such as a plurality of types of decorative symbols variably displayed on the image display device 5. . In addition, the setting data stored in the image processing data memory includes pattern data and sequence data for image processing in which the image processing processor performs deformation processing on the original image data to generate display image data. Yes.

  The VRAM is a frame buffer memory that temporarily stores display data for an image generated by the image processor. The display data stored in the VRAM may be pixel data (raster data) created by an image processor based on vector data (vector data) such as points, lines, and polygons.

  Next, the operation (action) of the pachinko gaming machine 1 in this embodiment will be described.

  In the main board 11, when power supply from a predetermined power supply board is started, the game control microcomputer 100 is activated, and the CPU 103 executes a predetermined process as a game control main process. When the game control main process is started, the CPU 103 performs necessary initial settings after setting the interrupt disabled. In this initial setting, for example, the RAM 101 is cleared. Also, register setting of a CTC (counter / timer circuit) built in the game control microcomputer 100 is performed. Thereby, thereafter, an interrupt request signal is sent from the CTC to the CPU 103 every predetermined time (for example, 2 milliseconds), and the CPU 103 can periodically execute timer interrupt processing.

  When the initial setting is completed, an interrupt is permitted and then loop processing is started. In the game control main process, a process for returning the internal state of the pachinko gaming machine 1 to the state at the time of the previous power supply stop may be executed before entering the loop process. When the CPU 103 that has executed such a game control main process receives an interrupt request signal from the CTC and receives an interrupt request, it executes the game control timer interrupt process shown in the flowchart of FIG.

  When the game control timer interrupt process shown in FIG. 15 is started, the CPU 103 first executes a predetermined switch process, thereby causing the gate switch 21, the first start port switch 22A, and the second start port to pass through the switch circuit 110. The state of detection signals input from various switches such as the switch 22B and the count switch 23 is determined (step S11). Subsequently, by executing predetermined main-side error processing, abnormality diagnosis of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is performed, and if necessary, a warning can be generated according to the diagnosis result (step S12). After that, by executing a predetermined information output process, for example, data such as jackpot information, starting information, probability variation information supplied to a hall management computer installed outside the pachinko gaming machine 1 is output (step) S13).

  Following the information output process, a game random number update process for updating at least a part of the game random numbers such as random number values MR1 to MR5 used on the main board 11 side by software is executed (step S14). Thereafter, the CPU 103 executes special symbol process processing (step S15). In the special symbol process, the value of the special symbol process flag provided in the game control flag setting unit 152 is updated according to the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1, and the first special symbol display device 4A or the second special symbol is processed. Various processes are selected and executed in order to perform control of display operation in the display device 4B and setting of opening / closing operation of the special winning opening in the special variable winning ball device 7 in a predetermined procedure.

  Following the special symbol process, the normal symbol process is executed (step S16). The CPU 103 controls the display operation (for example, turning on / off the segment LED, etc.) on the normal symbol display 20 by executing the normal symbol process, so that the variable display of the normal symbol and the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B are movable. Enables setting of the tilting movement of the blade.

  After executing the normal symbol process, the CPU 103 transmits a control command from the main board 11 to a sub-side control board such as the effect control board 12 by executing the command control process (step S17). As an example, in the command control process, in response to the setting in the command transmission table specified by the value of the transmission command buffer provided in the game control buffer setting unit 155, among the output ports included in the I / O 105, effect control After setting the control data in the output port for transmitting the effect control command to the board 12, the predetermined control data is set in the output port of the effect control INT signal and the effect control INT signal is turned on for a predetermined time. By changing the state to the off state, the presentation control command can be transmitted based on the setting in the command transmission table. After executing the command control process, after setting the interrupt enabled state, the game control timer interrupt process is terminated.

  FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing an example of processing executed in step S15 shown in FIG. 15 as special symbol process processing. In this special symbol process, the CPU 103 first executes a start winning determination process (step S101).

  In the start winning determination process in step S101, the CPU 103 first determines whether or not a start winning has occurred. As an example, the input state (off / on) of a start winning signal that is a detection signal transmitted from the first start port switch 22A or the second start port switch 22B is checked, and any of the start winning signals is on. If there is, it may be determined that a start winning has occurred.

  When a start winning is generated, a random number at the time of winning is stored. As an example, out of game random numbers updated by a random counter provided in the random number circuit 104 or the game control counter setting unit 154, a random value MR1 for determining a special figure display result or a random value MR2 for determining a jackpot type Numerical data indicating the random number MR3 for determining the variation pattern type is extracted. The numeric data indicating each random number extracted at this time is stored by being set at the head of the empty entry in the special figure reservation storage unit 151A as the hold data together with the start port data. The start port data indicates “1” when a game ball is detected by the first start port switch 22A (during the first start winning prize), while when a game ball is detected by the second start port switch 22B (first Anything that shows “2” at the time of the 2 start winning) is acceptable.

  Subsequent to storing the hold data, transmission setting of a start opening prize designation command corresponding to start opening data, transmission setting of a hold storage number notification command, and the like are performed. For example, when the start port data indicates “1”, a setting for transmitting a first start port winning designation command is performed. On the other hand, when the start port data indicates “2”, a setting for transmitting the second start port winning designation command is performed.

  After executing such a start winning determination process, the CPU 103 selects and executes one of the processes in steps S110 to S117 according to the value of the special figure process flag provided in the game control flag setting unit 152.

  The special symbol normal process in step S110 is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is “0”. In this special symbol normal process, whether to start the special symbol game by the first special symbol display device 4A or the second special symbol display device 4B based on the presence / absence of reserved data stored in the special symbol reservation storage unit 151A. A determination is made whether or not. Further, in the special symbol normal process, based on the numerical data indicating the random value MR1 for determining the special symbol display result, whether or not the variable symbol display result of the special symbol or the decorative symbol is “big hit”, the variable symbol display result is “ Whether or not “small hit” is determined is determined (predetermined) before the variable display result is derived and displayed. When it is determined that the variable display result is “big hit”, the big hit type is determined as one of a plurality of types such as “non-probability change”, “probability change”, and “surprise change”.

  When determining (predetermining) the variable display result, the first special figure display result determination table 130A shown in FIG. 7 (A) or the second shown in FIG. 7 (B), depending on the start port data included in the hold data. Any one of the special figure display result determination table 130B may be selected to refer to the table data corresponding to the gaming state. When determining the jackpot type, the jackpot type determination table 131 shown in FIG. 8 is selected, and the table data corresponding to whether the variation special chart is the first special chart or the second special chart is referred to based on the start port data. do it.

  Further, in the special symbol normal process, in response to the variable display result of the special symbol in the special symbol game, the confirmed special symbol (big hit symbol or the like in the special symbol game by the first special symbol display device 4A or the second special symbol display device 4B) Either a small hit symbol or a lost symbol) is set. In the special symbol normal process, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to “1” when the variable display result of the special symbol or the decorative symbol is determined in advance.

  The variation pattern setting process in step S111 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is “1”. In this variation pattern setting process, a predetermined determination result as to whether or not the variable display result is “big hit” or “small hit”, numerical data indicating the random value MR3 for determining the variation pattern type included in the hold data, etc. Based on the numerical data indicating the random value MR4 for determining the variation pattern in accordance with the process of determining the variation pattern type as one of a plurality of types based on Includes processing to determine one of them, processing to set a special symbol variable display time (special symbol variation time) based on the variation pattern determination result, and start special symbol variable display (special symbol game). .

  When determining the variation pattern type based on the fact that the variable display result is determined to be “big hit”, the big hit variation pattern type determination table 132A shown in FIG. 9A is selected, and the table corresponding to the determination result of the big hit type Refer to the data. When determining the variation pattern type based on the fact that the variable display result is determined to be “small hit”, the small hit variation pattern type determination table 132B shown in FIG. 9B is selected and the table data is referred to. Good.

  When determining the variation pattern type based on the fact that the variable display result is determined to be “losing”, if the time reduction control is not performed, the loss variation pattern type determination table (normally shown in FIG. 10A) When) 133A is selected and the table data corresponding to the total number of reserved storages is referred to. On the other hand, when the time reduction control is performed, the loss variation pattern type determination table (during time reduction control) 133B shown in FIG. 10B is selected, and the table data corresponding to the total number of pending storages may be referred to. . When determining the variation pattern, the variation pattern determination table 134 shown in FIG. 11 may be selected and the table data corresponding to the determination result of the variation pattern type may be referred to.

  A variation pattern designation command for designating the variation pattern thus determined is sequentially transmitted from the main substrate 11 to the effect control substrate 12 together with the first variation start command, the second variation start command, the variable display result notification command, or the like. Is done. In order to transmit the variable display result notification command, the variable pattern result determined in the special symbol normal process in step S110 is one of “losing”, “big hit”, and “small hit” in the variation pattern setting process in step S111. A process of determining whether or not is included may be included. Further, in order to transmit the variable display result notification command, the variation pattern setting process in step S111 includes the jackpot types determined in the special symbol normal process in step S110 as “non-probability variation”, “probability variation”, and “surprising”. Processing for determining which of these may be included. The variable display result notification command may be an effect control command including data (such as EXT data) indicating a determination result as to which of the plurality of types of variable display results. When the variation pattern setting process is executed and the variable symbol special display is started, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to “2”.

  The special symbol variation process in step S112 is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is “2”. This special symbol variation process includes a process for setting the special symbol to be varied in the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B, and an elapsed time after the special symbol starts to vary. It includes processing to measure For example, every time the special symbol variation process of step S112 is executed, the special diagram variation timer value, which is the stored value in the special diagram variation timer provided in the game control timer setting unit 153, is subtracted or incremented by one. Regardless of whether the game is a special game using the first special symbol in the first special symbol display device 4A or a special game using the second special symbol in the second special symbol display device 4B, The elapsed time is measured. Further, it is also determined whether or not the measured elapsed time has reached a special figure fluctuation time corresponding to the fluctuation pattern.

  As described above, the special symbol variation process in step S112 is performed in the special symbol variation in the special symbol game using the first special symbol in the first special symbol display device 4A or the second special symbol display device 4B in the second special symbol display device 4B. It suffices if the process of controlling the change of the special symbol in the special figure game using the figure is controlled by a common processing routine. When the elapsed time since the start of the special symbol variation reaches the special symbol variation time, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to “3”. The special symbol stop process in step S113 is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is “3”.

  In the special symbol stop process, the first special symbol display device 4A or the second special symbol display device 4B stops the variation of the special symbol, and the fixed special symbol that is the variable symbol display result is stopped and displayed (derived). A process for performing the setting is included. Then, it is determined whether or not the jackpot flag provided in the game control flag setting unit 152 is turned on. When the jackpot flag is turned on, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “4”. Is done. On the other hand, when the big hit flag is off and the small hit flag is on, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “8”. When both the big hit flag and the small hit flag are off, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “0”.

  The big hit release pre-processing in step S114 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is “4”. This big hit release pre-processing includes a process for starting the execution of the round in the big hit gaming state and setting the big winning opening to the open state based on the fact that the variable display result becomes “big hit”, etc. include. In this case, for example, the upper limit of the period during which the big winning opening is opened may be set in accordance with whether the big hit type is “non-probability change”, “probability change”, or “surprise change”.

  For example, in response to the big hit type “non-probability change” or “probability change”, the upper limit of the period during which the big winning opening is opened is set to “29 seconds”, and the upper prize is the upper limit number of times the round is executed. By setting the number of times of opening of the mouth to “15 times”, it is only necessary to set the normal open big hit state. On the other hand, corresponding to the big hit type “surprise”, the upper limit of the period during which the big winning opening is opened is set to “0.1 second”, and the number of opening of the big winning opening that becomes the upper limit number of times to execute the round is set. Is set to “15 times” to set the short-term open big hit state. At this time, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “5”.

  The big hit release processing in step S115 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is “5”. In the big hit opening process, the winning prize opening is based on the process of measuring the elapsed time since the big winning opening is in the open state, the measured elapsed time, the number of game balls detected by the count switch 23, and the like. The process etc. which determine whether it became the timing which returns to a closed state from an open state are included. Then, when returning the special winning opening to the closed state, after performing processing for stopping the supply of the solenoid driving signal to the special winning opening door solenoid 82, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “6”. .

  The big hit release post-processing in step S116 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is “6”. In this post-hit opening process, the process of determining whether or not the number of rounds in which the winning opening is open has reached the maximum number of opening of the big winning opening, or the maximum number of opening of the big winning opening has been reached. In some cases, processing for performing a setting for transmitting a jackpot end designation command is included. When the number of round executions has not reached the maximum value of the number of times of winning the special winning opening, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “5”. The value of the process flag is updated to “7”.

  The big hit end process in step S117 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is “7”. In the jackpot end process, a waiting time corresponding to a period in which an ending effect as an effect operation for notifying the end of the jackpot game state is executed by an effect device such as the image display device 5, the speakers 8L and 8R, the game effect lamp 9 or the like. A process of waiting until time elapses, a process of performing various settings for starting the probability variation control and the time reduction control in response to the end of the big hit gaming state, and the like are included. When such setting is performed, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “0”.

  The small hit pre-release process in step S118 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is “8”. The pre-opening process for small hits includes a process for setting the big winning opening in the small hit game state based on the fact that the variable display result is “small hit”. As an example, when the variable display result is “small hit”, the upper limit of the period during which the big winning opening is opened is the same as when the variable display result is “big hit” and the big hit type is “surprise”. Setting to “0.1 seconds” and setting the number of times of opening of the big winning opening to “15 times” may be performed so that the small hit gaming state is set. At this time, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “9”.

  The small hit releasing process in step S119 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is “9”. In the small hit opening process, the process for measuring the elapsed time since the big prize opening is in the open state, and the timing for returning the big prize opening from the open state to the closed state based on the measured elapsed time, etc. The process etc. which determine whether or not were included are included. When returning the big prize opening to the closed state, a process for stopping the supply of the drive signal to the solenoid 82 for the big prize opening door may be executed.

  The small hit end process in step S120 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is “10”. In this small hit end process, there is a waiting time corresponding to a period during which the presentation operation for informing the end of the small hit gaming state is executed by the presentation device such as the image display device 5, the speakers 8L and 8R, the game effect lamp 9 or the like. Processing that waits until the time has passed is included. Here, when the small hit gaming state is finished, the state of the pachinko gaming machine 1 before the small hit gaming state is continued without changing the state of the probability change flag and the short time flag. When the waiting time at the end of the small hit gaming state has elapsed, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “0”.

  Next, the operation in the effect control board 12 will be described.

  In the effect control board 12, when the supply of the power supply voltage is received from the power supply board or the like, the effect control CPU 120 is activated and executes the effect control main process as shown in the flowchart of FIG. When the effect control main process shown in FIG. 17 is started, the effect control CPU 120 first executes a predetermined initialization process (step S71), clears the RAM 122, sets various initial values, and displays the effect control board 12. Performs register settings for the mounted CTC (counter / timer circuit).

  Thereafter, it is determined whether or not the timer interrupt flag is on (step S72). The timer interrupt flag is set to the ON state every time a predetermined time (for example, 2 milliseconds) elapses based on, for example, the CTC register setting. At this time, if the timer interrupt flag is off (step S72; No), the process of step S72 is repeatedly executed and waits.

  On the side of the effect control board 12, an interrupt for receiving an effect control command from the main board 11 is generated separately from the timer interrupt that occurs every time a predetermined time elapses. This interruption is generated when, for example, an effect control INT signal from the main board 11 is turned on. When an interruption occurs due to the turn-on of the effect control INT signal, the effect control CPU 120 automatically sets the interrupt prohibition, but if a CPU that does not automatically enter the interrupt disabled state is used, It is desirable to issue a prohibition instruction (DI instruction).

  The effect control CPU 120 executes, for example, a predetermined command reception interrupt process in response to an interrupt when the effect control INT signal is turned on. In this command reception interrupt process, a control signal that becomes an effect control command from a predetermined input port that receives a control signal transmitted from the main board 11 via the relay board 15 among the input ports included in the I / O 125. Capture. The effect control command captured at this time is stored, for example, in an effect control command reception buffer provided in the effect control buffer setting unit 194. As an example, when the production control command has a 2-byte configuration, the first byte (MODE) and the second byte (EXT) are sequentially received and stored in the production control command reception buffer. Thereafter, the effect control CPU 120 ends the command reception interrupt processing after setting the interrupt permission.

  If the timer interrupt flag is on in step S72 (step S72; Yes), the timer interrupt flag is cleared and turned off (step S73), and command analysis processing is executed (step S74). In the command analysis process executed in step S74, for example, after reading various effect control commands transmitted from the game control microcomputer 100 of the main board 11 and stored in the effect control command reception buffer, the reading is performed. Settings and control corresponding to the issued effect control command are performed. After executing the command analysis process in step S74, an effect control process is executed (step S75).

  In the effect control process of step S75, for example, an effect image display operation in the display area of the image display device 5, an audio output operation from the speakers 8L and 8R, a lighting operation in the decorative light emitter such as the game effect lamp 9 and the decoration LED, With respect to the control contents of the rendering operation using various rendering devices such as the driving operation in the rendering model, determination, determination, setting, and the like are performed according to the rendering control command transmitted from the main board 11 and the like. Following the effect control process in step S75, an effect random number update process is executed (step S76), and random numbers counted by the random counter of the effect control counter setting unit 193 are used as various random values used for effect control. The numerical data shown is updated by software.

  After the effect random number update process is executed in step S76, an image management process is executed (step S77). In the image management process in step S77, for example, original image data representing an original image is acquired, predetermined deformation processing is performed on the original image data, and display for representing an image to be displayed having a different aspect from the original image. Settings for generating image data are performed.

  FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing an example of the process executed in step S75 of FIG. 17 as the effect control process. In the effect control process, the effect control CPU 120 selects and executes one of the following processes in steps S170 to S177 according to the value of the effect process flag provided in the effect control flag setting unit 191. To do.

  The variable display start waiting process in step S170 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “0”. This variable display start waiting process determines whether or not to start variable display of decorative symbols on the image display device 5 based on whether or not the first variation start command or the second variation start command is received from the main board 11. The process etc. which determine are included.

  The variable display effect setting process in step S171 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “1”. This variable display effect setting processing corresponds to the decoration on the image display device 5 in response to the start of variable display of special symbols in the special symbol game by the first special symbol display device 4A or the second special symbol display device 4B. In order to perform variable display of symbols and other various effects, it includes a process of determining a fixed decorative symbol and various effect control patterns according to the variation pattern of special symbols and the type of display result.

  The variable display effect process in step S172 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “2”. In this variable display effect processing, the effect control CPU 120 reads various control data from the effect control pattern corresponding to the timer value in the effect control process timer provided in the effect control timer setting unit 192, and displays the decorative pattern. Processing for performing various effects control during variable display is included. After performing such effect control, for example, an end code indicating the end of variable display of the decorative symbol is read from the special symbol variation effect control pattern, or a symbol confirmation command transmitted from the main board 11 is received. Corresponding to the above, the final decorative symbol as the final stop symbol that is the variable display result of the decorative symbol is displayed in a completely stopped manner. If the final decorative design is displayed in a complete stop in response to the end code being read from the special pattern variation production control pattern, the variable display time corresponding to the variation pattern specified by the variation pattern designation command is displayed. Even if it does not depend on the effect control command from the main board 11, it is possible to determine and display the variable display result by autonomously deriving and displaying the determined decorative pattern on the effect control board 12 side. When the finalized decorative symbol is displayed as a complete stop, the value of the effect process flag is updated to “3”.

  The special figure waiting process in step S173 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “3”. In this special figure waiting process, the effect control CPU 120 determines whether or not a hit start designation command transmitted from the main board 11 has been received. When the hit start designation command is received and the hit start designation command designates the start of the big hit gaming state, the value of the production process flag is “6” corresponding to the big hit middle production process. Update to On the other hand, when the hit start designation command is received and the hit start designation command designates the start of the small hit gaming state, the value of the production process flag is a value corresponding to the small hit medium production process. To “4”. When the production control process timer times out without receiving a hit start designation command, it is determined that the special figure display result in the special figure game is “lost”, and the value of the production process flag is the initial value. Update to “0”.

  The small hitting effect process in step S174 is a process executed when the value of the effect control process flag is “4”. In the small hit effect processing, the effect control CPU 120 sets, for example, an effect control pattern corresponding to the effect content in the small hit gaming state, and displays an effect image based on the set content in the display area of the image display device 5. The sound and sound effects are output from the speakers 8L and 8R by outputting a command (sound effect signal) to the sound control board 13, and the game effect lamp 9 is output by outputting a command (lighting signal) to the lamp control board 14. Various effect control in the small hit gaming state such as lighting / extinguishing / flashing the decoration LED is executed. In the small hit effect processing, for example, the value of the effect process flag is updated to “5”, which is a value corresponding to the small hit end effect, in response to receiving a hit end designation command from the main board 11, for example. .

  The small hit end effect process in step S175 is a process executed when the value of the effect control process flag is “5”. In this small hit end effect process, the effect control CPU 120 sets, for example, an effect control pattern corresponding to the end of the small hit gaming state, etc., and displays an effect image based on the set contents in the display area of the image display device 5. The sound and sound effects are output from the speakers 8L and 8R by outputting a command (sound effect signal) to the sound control board 13, and the game effect lamp 9 is output by outputting a command (lighting signal) to the lamp control board 14. Various effect controls are executed at the end of the small hit gaming state, such as turning on / off / flashing the decoration LED. Thereafter, the value of the effect process flag is updated to “0” which is an initial value.

  The big hit effect process in step S176 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “6”. In this jackpot effect processing, the effect control CPU 120 sets, for example, an effect control pattern corresponding to the effect content in the jackpot gaming state, and displays an effect image based on the set content in the display area of the image display device 5. In addition, a sound or sound effect is output from the speakers 8L and 8R by outputting a command (sound effect signal) to the sound control board 13, and a game effect lamp 9 or a decoration is output by outputting a command (electric signal) to the lamp control board 14. Various effect control is executed in the big hit gaming state such as turning on / off / flashing the LEDs for use. In the big hit effect processing, for example, in response to receiving a hit end designation command from the main board 11, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to “7” which is a value corresponding to the ending effect processing.

  The ending effect process in step S177 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “7”. In this ending effect process, the effect control CPU 120 sets an effect control pattern or the like corresponding to the end of the big hit gaming state, for example, and displays an effect image based on the set content in the display area of the image display device 5. The sound and sound effects are output from the speakers 8L and 8R by outputting a command (sound effect signal) to the sound control board 13; Various effect controls such as turning on / off / flashing the LED are executed at the end of the big hit gaming state. Thereafter, the value of the effect process flag is updated to “0” which is an initial value.

  FIG. 19 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process executed in step S77 of FIG. 17 as the image management process. In this image management process, the effect control CPU 120 first determines whether or not a predetermined original image acquisition timing has come (step S181). In the process of step S181, for example, it may be determined that the original image acquisition timing has come when a predetermined instruction operation by the player is detected or when a predetermined condition different from the detection of the instruction operation is satisfied.

  As a more specific example, when a demonstration display (demonstration screen display) is performed by displaying a predetermined effect image on the image display device 5, an instruction operation (tilting operation or the like) or push to the stick controller 31A is performed. In response to the detection of an instruction operation (pressing operation, etc.) on the button 31B, it may be an original image acquisition timing by imaging using the camera 33. As another example, the original image acquisition timing can be continuously maintained in a predetermined period from the start of the predetermined effect in response to the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1 until the acquisition time elapses after the predetermined effect starts. That's fine.

  The effect operation that triggers the original image acquisition timing may include switching the demonstration display on the image display device 5 to a variable display of decorative symbols. For example, the original image acquisition timing may be continued in a predetermined period from when the demonstration display is switched to the decorative display variable display until the predetermined post-switching acquisition time elapses.

  In addition, in the production operation that triggers the acquisition timing of the original image, the display of a predetermined production image different from the variable display of the decorative design (display of the production image corresponding to the reach production to be super reach), the Output, lighting of a flash lamp included in the game effect lamp 9, predetermined operation of the movable member constituting the production model, various production operations according to instruction operations to the stick controller 31A and the push button 31B, or a part of these A production operation that combines all of them may be included. In this way, the original image acquisition timing continues in a predetermined period from the start of the predetermined effect until the acquisition time after the start of the effect and the acquisition time after switching elapses, and images are captured using the camera 33 within that period. Captured image data representing an image of the player may be acquired as original image data.

  As yet another example, the original image acquisition timing may be continued in a predetermined period from the start of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1 until the acquisition time after the predetermined game starts. In this case, for example, based on a detection signal from a touch ring (touch sensor) provided on the hitting operation handle, it is determined whether or not the player is operating the hitting operation handle. The original image acquisition timing continues until the acquisition time elapses after the predetermined game start after it is determined that there is an operation of the hitting operation handle, and the player's image captured using the camera 33 before that time has elapsed. Captured image data representing an image may be acquired as original image data.

  Of the acquisition time after the start of the production, the acquisition time after the switching, and the acquisition time after the start of the game, some or all of them are combined, and the player imaged using the camera 33 until any predetermined time elapses. Captured image data representing an image may be acquired as original image data. Alternatively, instead of the fact that a predetermined time such as the acquisition time after the start of the production, the acquisition time after the switching, or the acquisition time after the start of the game has elapsed, for example, the variable display count of the special symbols and decorative symbols in the pachinko gaming machine 1 reaches the predetermined number of times. That the gaming state in the pachinko gaming machine 1 is controlled to a predetermined gaming state (such as a big hit gaming state), that a predetermined performance operation is executed (started or finished) in the pachinko gaming machine 1, The captured image data is stored in the original image data until a predetermined arbitrary condition is satisfied, such as that the variable display state of FIG. 6 has reached the reach state, or that at least one of some or all of these conditions has been satisfied. You may get as

  The acquisition time after the start of the production, the acquisition time after the switching, and the acquisition time after the start of the game have elapsed (for example, 1 hour), the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1 has started, the pachinko gaming machine 1 The gaming state has been controlled to a predetermined gaming state (such as a big hit gaming state), a predetermined performance operation has been executed (started or ended) in the pachinko gaming machine 1, a membership card (registration card) in a predetermined reading device Is acquired from the external device of the pachinko game machine 1 when a predetermined ball lending operation is performed, or when a predetermined condition combining some or all of these is satisfied. Therefore, the original image acquisition timing may be set.

  When it is the original image acquisition timing in step S181 (step S181; Yes), the original image data is acquired (step S182). As an example, in the process of step S182, the imaging operation by the camera 33 is controlled to generate captured image data representing a player's face image and the like. The captured image data transmitted from such a camera 33 may be acquired as original image data.

  As another example, in the process of step S182, the external device of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is accessed, and the original image data stored in advance in the external device or the original image data read by the external device is used for the pachinko game. Transmission to the machine 1 may be requested. As yet another example, when the pachinko gaming machine 1 includes a reading device that reads a recording medium such as an IC card, the processing of step S182 controls the reading operation of the recording medium by the reading device, thereby converting the original image data. You may get it.

  The acquired original image data may be stored and stored in an image processing data memory included in the display control unit 123. Note that the acquired original image data may be temporarily stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 122 or the like, and provided to determine whether a display image can be generated.

  The original image data may be photographed image data representing a player's face image, actual image data representing a real image other than the player, a character image created using CG (Computer Graphics) technology, It may be virtual image data representing an animation image. The original image data may be provided to the display control unit 123 via the effect control CPU 120, or the effect control CPU 120 transmits a predetermined display control command to the image processing processor of the display control unit 123, and the image processing is performed. The processor may acquire the original image data without going through the effect control CPU 120.

  Following the processing of step S182, it is determined whether or not a display image can be generated using the acquired original image data (step S183). As an example, in the process of step S183, if the degree of coincidence of a face image, a live-action image, a character image, and an animation image of a player to be displayed is higher than a predetermined level compared to a standard image model prepared in advance. It may be determined that a display image can be generated. Alternatively, edge detection is performed on the original image data acquired in the process of step S182, and a display image is generated when the detection result satisfies a predetermined standard that can extract feature points to be displayed. What is necessary is just to determine that it can do.

  If it is determined in step S183 that a display image cannot be generated (step S183; No), the process returns to step S181. In this way, when the display image cannot be generated, it is possible to increase the possibility that the original image data capable of generating the display image is acquired by repeatedly executing the processes of steps S181 and S182.

  On the other hand, when it is determined in step S183 that a display image can be generated (step S183; Yes), a display image is generated by deformation processing on the original image data (step S184). The processing in step S184 may be performed as long as the effect control CPU 120 transmits a predetermined display control command to the image processing processor of the display control unit 123 and the effect control CPU 120 and the image processing processor cooperate with each other. .

  In the case where the original image is a face image of a person such as a player, in the process of step S184, first, for example, characteristic features in the display target such as eyes, mouth, nose, head and cheek in the face image represented by the original image data. In order to identify a specific part, feature points are extracted. As an example of this feature point extraction process, first, the luminance of the display target original image represented by the original image data is converted to generate a monochrome grayscale image. Subsequently, a contour (edge) is detected for each portion to be displayed using a differential filter such as a Sobel filter. As a result, an edge vector whose elements are size and direction is obtained. Then, the arrangement | positioning is specified about each site | part of the predetermined display object by the matching etc. based on the calculation of the evaluation function using a shape template. At this time, if the arrangement of each part cannot be specified, it may be determined that a display image cannot be generated. And what is necessary is just to extract several points, such as an end point and an intermediate point, as a feature point about each site | part of the specified display object.

  Following the extraction of feature points in the original image, a standard structure model (wire frame model) to be displayed prepared in advance is deformed and fitted (matched) to the original image. The standard structure model is composed of vertex data that divides a standard image to be displayed (such as a face image) into a large number of patches, which are approximated as a set of patches, and line segment data that connects the vertices. That's fine. When deforming the standard structure model, change the position, size, or rotation amount of the standard structure model, or move a plurality of vertex coordinates in conjunction with each other within a predetermined constraint range, and perform predetermined linear interpolation. It is only necessary to change the arrangement of vertices (control points) corresponding to each feature point. After fitting the standard structural model to the original image, the structural model is deformed in accordance with sequence data prepared in advance, using a movement amount and movement direction as parameters in a predetermined motion unit (AU). The sequence data only needs to indicate a combination of parameters describing arbitrary facial expressions such as anger, joy, sadness, disgust, fear, and surprise based on FACS (Facial Action Coding System).

  In this way, when the original image is a face image of a person such as a player, it corresponds to any facial expression including some or all of multiple types of facial expressions such as anger, joy, sadness, disgust, fear, and surprise. Display image data representing a single type or a plurality of types of display images can be generated. That is, when the original image is a face image of a person, the display image data representing the display target image having a different aspect from the original image is generated by changing the expression of the person. The deformation process may be executed.

  Note that when the original image is a human face image, the aspect of the image differs from that of the original image by changing some or all of the facial wrinkles and mustaches, the presence or absence of hair, the amount, the arrangement, and the color scheme. Display image data representing the displayed image to be displayed may be generated. Thereby, display image data representing a face image or the like having a different aspect from the player's impression (such as age) in the original image may be generated.

  By performing texture mapping after deforming the structural model, display image data representing a display target aspect different from the original image is generated. Note that the display image data may be still image data representing a still image to be displayed, or may be moving image data representing a moving image obtained by changing the display target form over a plurality of frames. In this case, the moving image data only needs to represent a moving image in which the original image represented by the original image data is used as an initial image and the display target mode is changed stepwise from the initial image.

  Further, for example, color-reduction processing may be performed on real image data such as captured image data by the camera 33 to generate a virtual character (avatar), and then a display image may be generated by deformation processing. Alternatively, when the original image is a face image of a person, a face image of a predetermined person (for example, a celebrity such as an idol, a sports player, an actor, or a historical person) prepared separately from the original image is used. Then, by synthesizing the average face images of multiple people (for example, a player and an idol) and then changing the facial expression, display image data representing the display target image that is different from the original image is generated. May be. The display image data generated in this way may be stored and stored in an image processing data memory included in the display control unit 123 (step S185).

  When it is not the original image acquisition timing in step S181 (step S181; No), after executing the process of step S185, it is determined whether or not there is an instruction to confirm the display image (step S186). For example, in the process of step S186, the display image is displayed based on an instruction operation (such as tilting operation) on the stick controller 31A or an instruction operation (such as pressing operation) on the push button 31B at a predetermined timing (such as during the demonstration screen display). It may be determined that there is a confirmation instruction. When the display image data is stored by the process of step S185, the display image may be confirmed regardless of whether or not an instruction operation is performed.

  When there is a confirmation instruction in step S186 (step S186; Yes), operation control for confirming the display image is performed (step S187). For example, in the process of step S187, the display image data stored in the image processing data memory included in the display control unit 123 is read, and the display target image subjected to the deformation process is displayed on the image display device 5. It may be displayed in the area.

  When there is no confirmation instruction in step S186 (step S186; No), it is determined whether or not it is the image erasure timing after executing the process of step S187 (step S188). As an example, when image deletion is selected by an instruction operation to the stick controller 31A or the push button 31B during the demonstration screen display, it may be determined that the image deletion timing has come. As another example, it may be determined that the image erasing timing has come when the demonstration screen is displayed. Thereby, when the demonstration screen display is performed in response to the fact that the variable display game in the pachinko gaming machine 1 is not executed, the original image and the display image can be erased.

  As yet another example, a predetermined absence corresponding to a case where the player leaves the seat, such as when it is determined that the hitting operation handle is not operated and the variable display of the special symbol or the decorative symbol is not executed. When the determination condition is satisfied, it may be determined that the image erasing timing has come. A combination of some or all of the following: when image deletion is selected by instruction operation, when a demonstration screen display is performed, and when there is no operation of the hitting operation handle and variable display is not executed It may be determined that the image erasing timing has come when any of the conditions is satisfied.

  If it is not the image erasing timing in step S188 (step S188; No), the image management process is terminated. On the other hand, when it is the image erasing timing (step S188; Yes), the image data representing the original image and the display image are both erased (step S189), and the image management process is terminated. In the process of step S189, for example, in an image processing data memory, a predetermined area in which image data indicating an original image or a display image is stored may be cleared and these image data may be deleted. Note that the present invention is not limited to erasing all image data representing original images and display images. For example, image data representing a plurality of types of display images according to an instruction operation on the stick controller 31A or the push button 31B. A part may be erased.

  FIG. 20 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process executed in step S161 in FIG. 18 as the variable display start setting process. In the process shown in FIG. 20, the effect control CPU 120 first determines a stop symbol to be stopped and displayed by variable display of the decorative symbol (step S501). In the process of step S501, for example, based on the variation pattern indicated in the variation pattern designation command transmitted from the main board 11, a finalized design (final stop symbol) that is a variable display result of the design is determined.

  After the stop symbol is determined in step S501, the effect operation during the variable display of the decorative symbol is set (step S502). In the process of step S502, for example, determination of whether or not to execute a notice effect, and determination of whether or not to execute a notice effect among a plurality of types such as “character notice” and “operation notice” when executed. Etc. are performed. Following the processing of step S502, it is determined whether or not the contents of various effects executed corresponding to the special game are usable for display images (step S503). As an example of the processing in step S503, whether or not the reach effect corresponding to the variation pattern indicated in the variation pattern designation command transmitted from the main board 11 is a reach effect pattern predetermined as an effect that can use the display image. Is determined. As another example, it may be determined whether or not there is an effect pattern that is predetermined as an effect in which the display image can be used among the various effects determined by the process of step S502.

  When it is determined in step S503 that the display image can be used (step S503; Yes), for example, by reading the stored contents in a predetermined area of the image processing data memory, the display image that can be used for production It is determined whether image data is stored (step S504). If display image data is stored (step S504; Yes), the display image displayed in the current presentation is selected (step S505). At this time, any one of a plurality of types of display images may be selected at a different rate depending on whether or not a game having a high advantage for the player is executed.

  For example, the image (selected image) selected by the process in step S505 is read out from the image processing data memory and written in a predetermined area of the VRAM (or a RAM different from the VRAM), for example. The used image is set (step S506). When it is determined in step S503 that the display image is not usable (step S503; No), or when it is determined in step S504 that display image data is not stored (step S504; No). Then, an existing image previously stored and prepared in an image processing data memory or the like is set as a use image (step S507). Thus, for example, when display image data cannot be generated from original image data, an image display using display image data is determined based on the determination that display image data is not stored. It is possible to switch to an effect different from the effect by. In addition, as an effect different from the effect by the image display using the display image data, a predetermined effect is obtained from the speakers 8L and 8R instead of the effect by the display of the existing image prepared in advance or together with the effect by the display of the existing image. An effect of outputting sound, an effect of lighting a predetermined lamp (such as a flash lamp) included in the game effect lamp 9, an effect of operating a movable member constituting the effect model, and an instruction operation for the stick controller 31A and the push button 31B You may make it switch to the various production | generation operation | movement according to these, or the production which combined these one part or all.

  After executing one of the processes of steps S506 and 507, various effect control patterns such as a special figure change effect control pattern and a notice effect control pattern are selected from a plurality of patterns prepared in advance (step S508). The effect control CPU 120 selects, for example, one of a plurality of special figure variation effect control patterns prepared in correspondence with the change pattern indicated in the change pattern designation command and sets it as a use pattern. Further, in response to the notice effect determined in the process of step S502, one of a plurality of prepared notice effect control patterns is selected and set as a use pattern. In the process of step S508, depending on whether or not an effect using the display image is executed, a different special-fluctuation effect control pattern or notice effect control pattern may be set as the use pattern.

  Following the processing of step S508, for example, the initial value of the effect control process timer provided in the effect control timer setting unit 192 is set in accordance with the change pattern indicated in the change pattern designation command (step S509). And the setting for starting the fluctuation | variation of the decoration design in the image display apparatus 5 is performed (step S510). At this time, for example, the display control command designated by the display control data included in the special-figure variation effect control pattern selected as the use pattern in step S508 is transmitted to the image processing processor of the display control unit 123, etc. Thus, the variation of the decorative symbols may be started in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas provided in the display area of the image display device 5. Thereafter, the value of the effect process flag is updated to “2”, which is a value corresponding to the decorative symbol variation process (step S511), and the variable display start setting process ends.

  It should be noted that if display image data is stored in step S504, the process is not limited to the one that always proceeds to the process of step S505 and the display image is selected, and is a game highly advantageous to the player executed? The determination as to whether or not to execute the effect using the display image may be performed at a different rate depending on whether or not the display is performed. At this time, when it is determined to execute the effect using the display image, the process proceeds to step S505. On the other hand, when it is determined not to execute the effect, the process proceeds to step S507.

  FIG. 21 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process executed in step S162 of FIG. 18 as the variable display effect process. In the process shown in FIG. 21, the effect control CPU 120 first determines whether or not the variable display time corresponding to the variation pattern has elapsed based on, for example, the effect control process timer value (step S521). As an example, in the process of step S521, when the production control process timer value is updated (for example, 1 is subtracted) and an end code is read from the production control pattern corresponding to the updated production control process timer value, etc. It may be determined that the variable display time has elapsed.

  If the variable display time has not elapsed in step S521 (step S521; No), it is determined whether or not it is the display image use period for executing the effect using the display image (step S522). ). The display image use period may be determined in advance in, for example, a special-figure variation effect control pattern selected corresponding to the variation pattern.

  If it is the display image use period in step S522 (step S522; Yes), operation control is performed to execute an effect using the display image during the variable display (fluctuation) of the decorative symbol (step S523). . As an example, in the process of step S523, a display image having a different aspect from the original image is displayed on the image display device 5 in accordance with the presentation control execution data (display control data, etc.) read from the special figure variation presentation control pattern. In order to display in the display area, a predetermined display control command may be created and transmitted to the display control unit 123. When the display image is a moving image, the display image of each frame is displayed in the display area of the image display device 5 every time it is determined in step S522 that the display image is being used. Thus, it is only necessary to display a moving image in which the aspect of the display target changes stepwise.

  In the process of step S523, the display operation of the display image may be controlled so that the display target mode changes based on the detection of the instruction operation on the stick controller 31A or the push button 31B. In one example, as display image data, image data representing a display target of a plurality of frames is generated as with moving image data, and is displayed for a predetermined number of frames each time an instruction operation on the stick controller 31A or the push button 31B is detected. It is only necessary that images representing the target are continuously switched and displayed.

  When it is not the display image use period in step S522 (step S522; No), after executing the process of step S523, for example, based on the setting in the special-figure variation effect control pattern corresponding to the variation pattern, etc. After performing other effect operation control (step S524), the variable display effect process is terminated. If the variable display time has elapsed in step S521 (step S521; Yes), it is determined whether or not a symbol confirmation command transmitted from the main board 11 has been received (step S525). At this time, if there is no reception of the symbol confirmation command (step S525; No), the variable display effect processing is terminated and waits. If the predetermined time has passed without receiving the symbol confirmation command after the variable display time has elapsed, predetermined error processing is executed in response to the failure to receive the symbol confirmation command normally. You may make it do.

  If a symbol confirmation command is received in step S525 (step S525; Yes), for example, a predetermined display control command is transmitted to the image processor of the display control unit 123, etc. Control is performed to derive and display the final stop symbol (definite decorative symbol) that is the display result in the variable display (step S526). Further, a predetermined time is set as a waiting time for receiving the hit start designation command (step S527). Then, the value of the effect process flag is updated to “3” which is a value corresponding to the waiting process per special figure (step S528), and then the effect process during variable display is ended.

  Hereinafter, an example of specific control in the pachinko gaming machine 1 will be described.

  In the pachinko gaming machine 1, for example, after a game ball driven into the game area passes through (enters) the first start winning opening and the second starting winning opening, a start winning such as the first starting winning or the second starting winning occurs. Based on the establishment of the start condition that permits the start of variable display of special symbols and decorative symbols, the variable symbol special symbol display is started in the special symbol game by the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B. The In the display area of the image display device 5, variable display of decorative symbols is performed in correspondence with variable display of special symbols.

  Then, when a big win symbol is derived as a confirmed special symbol in the special symbol game and the variable symbol display result (special symbol display result) becomes “big hit”, the big winning game is controlled by the big hit gaming state and the first prize winning hole is the first. A round that changes to a state (for example, an open state) is performed, which is an advantageous state in which a player can obtain a large number of prize balls. As described above, in the pachinko gaming machine 1, the special display game based on the fact that the variable display result is determined to be “big hit” and the variable display of the decorative pattern executed in response thereto, the variable display result is “lost”. The game has a higher player's advantage than the case determined in the above.

  On the side of the effect control board 12, the effect control CPU 120 executes a process as shown in FIG. 19 as the image management process in step S77 shown in FIG. If it is the acquisition timing of the original image in step S181, original image data representing the original image is acquired in step S182. When it is determined that the original image data acquired at this time can generate a display image in step S183, a display image is generated in step S184.

  As an example, when the original image acquired by the process of step S182 is as shown in FIG. 22A, the effect control CPU 120 transmits a predetermined display control command to the image processing processor of the display control unit 123. Thus, the deformation processing for generating the display image is started. The image processing processor of the display control unit 123 executes a predetermined deformation process in response to a command from the effect control CPU 120, thereby obtaining a single type or a plurality of types of display images having different aspects from the original image. Generate.

  In this operation control example, for example, a display image DI01 representing a “sadness” expression as shown in FIG. 22B and a display image DI02 representing an “anger” expression as shown in FIG. A display image DI03 representing the expression of “joy” as shown in FIG. 22D is generated. The display image data representing the display image generated in this way is stored, for example, in the image processing data memory of the display control unit 123 in step S184 of FIG. An effect using such a display image can be executed in a predetermined period such as during the variable display of decorative symbols.

  For example, when the variation pattern indicated in the variation pattern designation command includes a reach effect that can use the display image, it is determined in step S503 in FIG. 20 that the effect content can use the display image. Is done. At this time, based on the determination that display image data is stored in step S504, the display image used in the current presentation is selected in step S505.

  As a specific example, in the process of step S505, based on the notification content by the variable display result notification command transmitted from the main board 11, the variable display result is “lost”, “big hit”, or “small hit”. Determine if it has been determined. Then, as shown in FIG. 23, any one of the display images DI01 to DI03 is displayed at a different rate depending on whether the variable display result is determined to be “lost”, “big hit”, or “small hit”. This is selected and set to a use image for display in the display area of the image display device 5.

  In the selection ratio setting example shown in FIG. 23, the display image DI03 has a lower selection ratio than the display image DI01 and the display image DI02 when the variable display result is determined to be “lost”. On the other hand, the display image DI03 has a higher selection ratio than the display image DI01 and the display image DI02 when the variable display result is determined to be “big hit”. Therefore, when the presentation using the display image DI03 is executed, the variable display result may be a “big hit” (the big hit) than when the presentation using the display image DI01 or the display image DI02 is executed. Expectation level) is higher.

  It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to selecting one of a plurality of types of display images at different ratios depending on the variable display result, and whether to perform an effect using the display images at different ratios depending on the variable display result. Whether or not may be determined. For example, if the display image can be used in the reach of Super Reach β, which has a higher expectation level for big hits than normal reach, when the variable display result is determined to be “big hit”, It is possible to execute an effect using the display image at a higher rate than when it is determined. In other words, when an effect using a display image is executed, the possibility that the variable display result will be a “big hit” (a big hit expectation) may be higher than when such an effect is not executed.

  After selecting the display image in this manner, for example, when it is determined in step S522 in FIG. 21 that the decorative image is variably displayed, it is determined that the display image is being used by the effect operation control in step S523. An effect using the display image is displayed on the display area of the display device 5. FIG. 24 shows an example of the effect operation using the display image.

  In this effect operation example, for example, as shown in FIG. 24A, decorative symbols are displayed in all of the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R in the image display device 5. Fluctuating variable display is started. Following the variable display as shown in FIG. 24A, for example, as shown in FIG. 24B, the number “3” is shown in the “left” and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L and 5R. The decorative symbols are arranged and displayed in sequence. As a result, the variable display state of the decorative design becomes the reach state. Thereafter, for example, an effect image as shown in FIG. 24C is displayed as the reach effect.

  Corresponding to the display image usage period during execution of such reach effects, for example, a display image DI03 as shown in FIG. 24 (D1) is cut-in displayed. In this case, it is possible to recognize that there is a high possibility that the variable display result will be a “big hit”, and then, for example, a final stop symbol (definite decorative symbol) that constitutes a big hit combination as shown in FIG. Derived and displayed, the variable display of the decorative design is completed.

  On the other hand, there is a case where a display image DI01 as shown in FIG. 24D2, for example, is cut-in displayed in response to the display image usage period. In this case, it becomes possible to recognize that there is a low possibility that the variable display result will be a “big hit”, and after that, for example, the final stop symbol (determined ornament symbol) constituting the reach combination as shown in FIG. Derived and displayed, the variable display of the decorative design is completed.

  In the above effect operation example, cut-in display using the display image is performed in the reach effect. On the other hand, the effect using the display image is not limited to the reach effect, and may be an arbitrary effect executed during variable display of decorative symbols such as a notice effect and a variable display effect.

  As an example of the notice effect, the state of the effect is displayed after the variable display of the decorative design is started and the fixed decorative design that is the variable display result is derived and displayed based on the fact that the variable display start condition is established once. Step-up notice that the aspect of production changes to a predetermined stage at a higher rate when the variable display result is “big hit” than when it is not “big hit” Production may be performed. In other words, when the number of times (the number of steps) that the effect mode changes in the step-up notice effect is large, the big hit expectation is higher than when the number of steps is small.

  As an aspect of the effect in such a step-up notice effect, an image using a display image may be provided. More specifically, the display image DI01 may be displayed in the first stage, the display image DI02 may be displayed in the second stage, and the display image DI03 may be displayed in the third stage.

  As an example of the variable display effect, based on the fact that the variable display start condition is satisfied once, the variable display of the decorative symbol is started after the variable display of the decorative symbol is started until the definite decorative symbol that is the variable display result is derived and displayed. ”,“ Middle ”, and“ right ”decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R, after temporarily displaying the decorative symbols temporarily or partially, the partial or all decorative symbol display areas 5L and 5C In some cases, a “pseudo-continuous” variable display effect can be executed that can be performed a predetermined number of times (for example, up to a maximum of two times). In the “pseudo-continuous” variable display effect, the variable display result may be set so that the possibility that the variable display result becomes “big hit” increases as the number of pseudo-continuous changes (re-changes) increases.

  Further, in the “pseudo-continuous” variable display effect, a re-change effect such as a related display effect may be executed with a plurality of change displays including the initial change. You may provide what used the image for a display as an aspect of the effect in such a re-change effect. More specifically, the display image DI01 is displayed in the re-variation effect accompanying the first change, the display image DI02 is displayed in the re-change effect after the first re-change, and the re-change after the second re-change. In the effect, the display image DI02 may be displayed.

  In this embodiment, among the games controlled to be executable by the pachinko gaming machine 1, an advantageous game having a higher advantage for the player than the predetermined game is that the variable display result is determined to be “big hit”. It is a variable display of special figure games and decorative designs. On the other hand, the advantageous game having a high degree of advantage for the player may be an arbitrary game that is highly likely to be given a game value advantageous to the player.

  For example, among the variable displays for which the variable display result is determined to be “big hit”, the variable display based on the fact that the jackpot type is determined to be “probable change”, and the variable display based on the fact that the jackpot type is determined to be “non-probable change” It may be an advantageous game having a higher degree of advantage for the player than the display. Alternatively, the first big hit gaming state in which the upper limit number of rounds that can be executed is the first round number (for example, “2”) and the second round number (for example, “15”) in which the upper limit number is larger than the first round number. From the variable display based on the decision to control to the first big hit gaming state, the variable display based on the decision to control to the second big hit gaming state. However, it may be an advantageous game with a high degree of advantage for the player.

  Alternatively, the first jackpot gaming state is set to the first period (for example, 0.5 seconds), while the upper limit period for opening the winning jackpot in the round is set to the first period (for example, 0.5 seconds), while the second jackpot gaming state is opened in the round. The upper limit period may be a second period (for example, 29 seconds) longer than the first period. Here, whether or not the game state is controlled to the big hit gaming state is not limited to that determined according to whether or not the variable display result is “big hit”, for example, a variable winning device provided in the gaming area When a V-winning occurs when a game ball that has entered the game passes (enters) a specific area, it may be controlled to a big hit game state. The variable winning device is based on the fact that a game ball has passed (entered) a starting area (such as a starting winning opening) provided in the gaming area, and is in a first state that is disadvantageous for the player (for example, a large winning opening by a movable member). A predetermined starting time (for example, once or twice) is performed to change from a closed state (for example, a closed state) to a second state (for example, an open state in which a big prize opening is opened by a movable member) that is advantageous to the player. The game ball that has entered the variable prize device that has entered the second state passes through the specific area (enters) and is controlled to the big hit gaming state.

  Note that the variable winning device is not limited to one that performs a starting operation that changes from the first state to the second state based on the passing (entering) of the game ball through the starting region. A starting operation may be performed based on the fact that “winning” is achieved. Even in this case, separately from the case where the variable display result is “big hit” based on the fact that the game ball that has entered the variable winning device that has entered the second state by the start operation has passed (entered) the specific area. As long as it can be controlled to the big hit gaming state.

  Alternatively, a first short-time state that ends when the number of executions (upper limit number) of the special figure game reaches the first number (for example, “50”) and a second number (for example, “ 100 ”), the variable display based on the decision to control to the second short-time state, and the variable display based on the decision to control to the first short-time state. However, it may be an advantageous game with a high degree of advantage for the player. Alternatively, one of a first probability variation state in which the big hit probability is a first probability (for example, 1/50) and a second probability variation state in which the big hit probability is a second probability (for example, 1/20) that is higher than the first probability. The variable display based on the decision to control to the second probability variation state may be an advantageous game having a higher advantage for the player than the variable display based on the decision to control to the first probability variation state. .

  Alternatively, the variable display executed in the probability change state may be an advantageous game having a higher advantage for the player than the variable display executed in the normal state or the short time state. Also, a first certain variation state that ends when the number of executions (upper limit number) of the special figure game reaches the first number (for example, “30”), and a second number (for example, “ 70 ”), and the variable display executed in the second probability change state is more advantageous to the player than the variable display executed in the first probability change state. It is good. In other words, a game state having a higher advantage for the player than the predetermined game state is provided among a plurality of types of game states, and an effect using the display image is provided depending on which game state the game is in. It may be made executable.

  Alternatively, the variable display in which the decorative display variable display state becomes the reach state is regarded as an advantageous game having a higher advantage for the player than the variable display that does not reach the reach state, and for display depending on whether or not the reach state is reached An effect using an image may be executable.

  Whether or not an advantageous game that is more advantageous for the player than a predetermined game is executed is determined each time a special-purpose game or a decorative pattern variable display is started, and the display image is based on the determination result An effect using the display image may be executed based on a determination result of whether or not an advantageous game can be executed over a plurality of variable displays. It may be made to become.

  As an example, when the gaming state is controlled to the promiscuous state after the big hit gaming state ends, the variable display result becomes “big hit” until it is controlled to the big hit gaming state again, or the variable display result becomes “big hit” The probability variation control is continuously performed until the number of executions of the special figure game reaches the predetermined upper limit number without becoming. In this case, based on the determination result that the game state is controlled to the probability variation state as the special game state advantageous to the player, unlike the big hit game state, the effect control CPU 120 sets the effect state in the pachinko gaming machine 1 to a plurality of types. Of the effect modes, the mode is shifted to a probability change suggestion effect mode different from the normal effect mode. The probability change suggestion effect mode can be shifted not only after the big hit game state ends but also after the end of the small hit game state, and in the probability change suggestion effect mode, the game state may be in a probability change state. For example, there may be a case where the probability variation state is not established.

  In the probability variation suggestion effect mode, a determination is made as to whether or not the effect using the display image is to be executed at a different rate from the normal effect mode, and the image used for the effect among the plurality of types of display images is displayed. One or both of the selections may be performed. Whether or not to shift to the probability change suggestion mode may be determined at a different ratio depending on the determination result of whether or not the gaming state is controlled to the probability change state. For example, when it is determined that the gaming state is controlled to the probability change state, the game state is shifted to the probability change suggestion effect mode at a higher rate than when it is determined not to be controlled to the probability change state.

  When such transition control is performed, the variable display in the probability change suggestion effect mode is more advantageous to the player because the game state is more likely to be controlled to the probability change state than the variable display in the normal effect mode. It becomes an advantageous game with a high degree. After shifting to the probability change suggestion effect mode, even if it is not determined every time variable display is started whether or not the game state is controlled to the probability change state, the display is based on the ratio based on the probability change suggestion effect mode. One or both of the determination of whether or not to execute the effect using the image for use and the selection of the image used for the effect among the plurality of types of display images may be performed. In this way, after determining whether or not to shift to the probability change suggestion effect mode according to the determination result of whether or not the gaming state is controlled to the probability change state, whether or not the probability change suggestion effect mode is normal over a plurality of variable displays. One of the determination of whether or not to execute the effect using the display image and the selection of the image to be used for the effect from among the plurality of types of display images, or at different ratios depending on whether or not the effect mode is in effect Both may be performed.

  In other words, the determination as to whether or not an advantageous game having a higher degree of advantage for the player than a predetermined game is executed may be performed when the game is started, or may be 1 after the game is started. It is performed at a predetermined timing before the game is started, such as when the game before the game or the game before the game is started, or when the big hit game state or the small hit game state ends, and depending on the determination result The game may be executed repeatedly over a plurality of times.

  Alternatively, the predetermined game or advantageous game is not limited to a game that is ended when a game result is derived once, and a plurality of times such as a plurality of games executed in any one of a plurality of types of game states. It may be interpreted as a series of games in which the game results can be derived.

  As the probability change suggestion mode, there are multiple types of effect modes with different levels of expectation that the game state is in the state of probability change, and the presence, frequency, and frequency of the display using the display image generated by the deformation processing of the original image Based on the above, it may be possible to change which probability change suggestion effect mode is to be shifted, and the ratio of the certain probability change suggestion effect mode to be changed. In this case, among a plurality of types of probability change suggestion effect modes, the variable display in the specific probability suggestion effect mode with a high expectation that is in the probability change state has a gaming state that is more variable than the variable display in the probability change suggestion effect mode with a low expectation. Since there is a high possibility that the game is controlled to a certain change state, the advantageous game is highly advantageous for the player. When performing the transition control of the probability variation suggestion effect mode, after the effect using the display image is executed, either the predetermined game or the advantageous game can be executed, and the presence or the number of the effects using the display image is determined. The advantageous game is executed at a predetermined rate based on part or all of the frequency. That is, the predetermined game or advantageous game may be executed based on whether or not an effect using the display image is executed.

  In addition, it is not limited to the one in which an effect using the display image is executed depending on whether or not the game is an advantageous game with a high degree of advantage for the player, with the variable display of the special game or the decorative design, for example, a big hit With the execution of the round in the gaming state, an effect using the display image may be executed. As an example, a jackpot gaming state based on the fact that the jackpot type is determined to be “probable change” is regarded as an advantageous game having a higher advantage for the player than the jackpot gaming state based on the fact that the jackpot type is determined to be “non-probable”. Along with the execution of the rounds in the respective big hit gaming states, it may be possible to perform an effect using the display image.

  Any of the predetermined game and the advantageous game may be a game having a predetermined property common to each other. As an example, both a predetermined game and an advantageous game have a common property that a game result is derived by performing a variable display such as a special game or a variable display of a decorative design and deriving and displaying the display result. It may be a game. As another example, both a predetermined game and an advantageous game have a common property that a game ball launched into a game area, such as a round in a big hit game state, enters a predetermined winning opening (such as a big winning opening). It may be a game.

  Alternatively, the predetermined game and the advantageous game may be a game having a relationship different from each other. As an example, the predetermined game may be a special game or a variable display of a decorative pattern, while the advantageous game may be a round in the big hit game state. In this case, the ratio varies depending on whether a predetermined game such as a special figure game or a variable display of decorative symbols is executed, or an advantageous game having a high degree of advantage for a player called a round in the big hit gaming state is executed. Thus, one or both of the determination as to whether or not to execute the effect using the display image and the selection of the image used for the effect among the plurality of types of display images may be performed.

  The display target image represented by the display image data is not limited to the determination result of whether the predetermined game or the advantageous game is executed, but based on whether the predetermined game or the advantageous game is executed. It is only necessary that the effect of displaying can be executed. As an example, an effect control command for notifying whether to execute a predetermined game or an advantageous game is transmitted from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12, and on the effect control board 12 side, for example, the CPU 120 for effect control Based on the result of reading the effect control command, one or both of determining whether or not to execute an effect using the display image and selecting an image to be used for the effect from among a plurality of types of display images You may make it perform. As another example, data (probability change designation flag data) that can specify whether or not the gaming state is a probability change state is stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 122 mounted on the effect control board 12, for example, for effect control Based on the result of CPU 120 reading the probability change designation flag data from RAM 122, determination as to whether or not to produce an effect using a display image, and selection of an image to be used for the effect from among a plurality of types of display images, One or both of the above may be performed.

  In step S182 shown in FIG. 19, processing for acquiring original image data from an external device of the pachinko gaming machine 1 may be executed. As an example, as shown in FIG. 25, the pachinko gaming machine 1 obtains original image data by performing predetermined data communication with the original image providing server 600 connected via the telecommunication network 550. Also good. The telecommunication network 550 includes, for example, a LAN (Local Area Network), a WAN (Wide Area Network), a mobile communication network including a base station and a packet network, a public telephone line, and part or all of the Internet. If it is.

  FIG. 26 shows a configuration example of the original image providing server 600. The original image providing server 600 may be constructed as a single computer system, or a function as the original image providing server 600 is provided by cooperation of a plurality of computer systems. There may be. The original image providing server 600 shown in FIG. 26 includes a database 601, a central processing circuit 602, various input / output interfaces 603, a communication processing circuit 604, and a communication interface 605.

  The database 601 is used for managing various information related to the player by recording various information about the player in a writable and readable manner. As an example, player identification information for identifying a player registered as a member is recorded in the database 601. In addition, in the database 601, game history information capable of specifying a game history (game history) in the pachinko gaming machine 1 may be recorded in association with player identification information or the like. The player identification information may include registrant image data representing the player's face image. By providing this registrant image data to the pachinko gaming machine 1, the original image data can be acquired on the pachinko gaming machine 1 side. In addition, it is not limited to the registrant image data included in the player identification information, but image data representing an effect image such as a more general character image is recorded in the database 601 and is stored in the pachinko gaming machine 1 as original image data. May be provided.

  The central processing circuit 602 includes, for example, a CPU that controls the operation of the server 600, a computer program executed by the CPU, and a memory (such as a ROM and a RAM) that records various data. The various input / output interfaces 603 include an input member and an output member for performing predetermined input / output operations such as detecting predetermined operations and predetermined operations by an operator of the server 600 and outputting processing results in the server 600. It is out. The communication processing circuit 604 executes various processes for executing data communication for transmitting various information between the server 600 and an external device. The communication interface 605 is connected to the telecommunication network 550 and transmits / receives a communication signal for executing predetermined data communication and the like with an external device such as the pachinko gaming machine 1.

  In the pachinko gaming machine 1, for example, the effect control CPU 120 accesses the original image providing server 600 in step S182 of FIG. 19 and makes a communication request for acquiring the original image. On the original image providing server 600 side, for example, the central processing circuit 602 executes an access management computer program to detect an access from the pachinko gaming machine 1 (original image acquisition access). The original image data representing the original image may be transmitted to the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to the detection result.

  At this time, among the history of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1, the contents of the effects (effect mode), the imaging result of the camera 33, and the player identification information corresponding to each player, there are a plurality of different ratios depending on some or all of them. Any one of the types of original image data may be selected and transmitted. As an example, when the number of executions (start times) of the special figure game in the pachinko gaming machine 1 is equal to or greater than a predetermined number (for example, 1000 times), image data different from the case where the number is less than the predetermined number is used as original image data. The pachinko gaming machine 1 may be provided.

  In addition, the game is not limited to the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1, and an effect using the display image is executed depending on whether or not the slot machine 500 executes an advantageous game that is more advantageous to the player than a predetermined game. It may be possible. Such a slot machine 500 may also acquire original image data by performing predetermined data communication with an original image providing server 600 connected via a telecommunication network 550 as shown in FIG. 25, for example. .

  FIG. 27 is a front view of the slot machine 500 and shows a layout of main members. The slot machine 500 is roughly composed of a housing whose front surface is open and a front door pivotally supported at a side end of the housing. Inside the casing of the slot machine 500, there is installed a variable display device 501 in which reels RL, RC, RR having a plurality of kinds of symbols arranged on the outer periphery are arranged in parallel in the horizontal direction. On the outer periphery of the reels RL, RC, RR, for example, “Red 7”, “White 7”, “BAR”, “JAC”, “Watermelon”, “Cherry”, “Bell”, which can be distinguished from each other Are drawn in a predetermined order. The symbols drawn on the outer peripheries of the reels RL, RC, and RR are displayed in upper, middle, and lower three stages.

  Each reel RL, RC, RR is rotated by reel motors 651L, 651C, 651R (FIG. 28) provided in correspondence with each other, and the symbols of each reel RL, RC, RR are displayed while changing continuously. At the same time, by stopping the rotation of the reels RL, RC, RR, three consecutive symbols are derived and displayed as display results. Further, an image display device 510 having a display function similar to that of the image display device 5 of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is provided on the front door of the slot machine 500. An operation table 520 in which various input switches and the like for the player to perform various operations is provided at the lower part of the variable display device 501 on the front door of the slot machine 500.

  On the back side of the operation table 520, a medal slot 502 for inserting and storing medals as game media in the slot machine 500, a BET switch 503 for setting (BET) the number of bets for one medal, MAXBET switch 504 for setting the maximum number of bets that can be bet in one game (three in this example), stored as credits (the number of medals stored as game value owned by the player) A settlement switch 508 is provided to settle the medals used and the medals used for setting the number of bets. The medal inserted into the medal insertion slot 502 is detected by a predetermined insertion medal sensor.

  On the front side of the operation table 520, a start lever 505 that is operated when the game is started in the slot machine 500, stop switches 506L and 506C that are operated when the rotation of each of the reels RL, RC, and RR is stopped. 506R is provided. A medal payout exit 507 through which medals are paid out is provided at the bottom of the operation table 520.

  At predetermined positions such as a lower portion of the variable display device 501 on the front door of the slot machine 500, a game information display unit for displaying various information related to games in the slot machine 500 is provided. For example, the game information display unit displays a credit indicator that displays the number of medals stored as credits, an auxiliary display that displays the number of medals acquired in the big bonus, an error code indicating the contents when an error occurs, and the like And a payout display for displaying the number of medals paid out by winning.

  Two speakers 511L and 511R that emit sound effects are provided on the upper left and right of the slot machine 500. In addition, a game effect lamp 512 and a camera 533 are provided above the image display device 510, and game effect lamps 513 and 514 are provided on the left and right sides of the image display device 510 and the variable display device 501.

  When a game is played in the slot machine 500, first, medals are inserted from the medal insertion slot 502, or credits are used to set the number of bets. To use the credit, the BET switch 503 or the MAXBET switch 504 is operated. When the number of bets is set in this way, one of a plurality of pay lines corresponding to the number of bets becomes valid, the operation of the start lever 505 is valid, that is, the game can be executed, and the variable display The execution condition is met. Even when a re-gamer winning such as replay occurs in the previous game, the next game can be executed continuously, and the variable display execution condition is satisfied.

  When the start lever 505 is operated in such a state that the game can be executed, based on the fact that the operation is detected by the start lever switch 505A (FIG. 28), the variable display start condition is satisfied, The reels RL, RC, RR rotate, and the symbols of the reels RL, RC, RR continuously change. If any one of the stop switches 506L, 506C, 506R is operated in this state, the rotation of the corresponding reels RL, RC, RR is stopped, and the display result is derived and displayed so as to be visible. Then, when the rotation of all the reels RL, RC, RR is stopped, one game is finished, and a combination of symbols called a predetermined combination on any activated pay line is assigned to each reel RL, When the display results of RC and RR are stopped, a winning is generated.

  The types of winning combinations are roughly divided into small roles with medals, re-players that can start the next game without the need to set the number of bets, and special cases that have a transition in gaming state. There is a role, and the winning combination is determined according to the gaming state. In the slot machine 500, an internal lottery is performed to determine whether or not the winning of each combination determined according to the gaming state is allowed based on the random number value extracted at the timing when the start lever 505 is operated. The fact that winning in this internal lottery and winning is permitted is also referred to as “internal winning”.

  Of the winning of each role, the winning of the small role and the replaying role is valid only in the game for which the winning is determined, but the winning of the special role has the roles allowed to be generated by the internal lottery. It is effective until. In other words, once the occurrence of a special winning combination is allowed, even if the special winning combination cannot be generated in each game, the winning is carried over to the next game.

  The gaming state in the slot machine 500 includes, for example, a regular bonus, a big bonus, and a normal gaming state. In the regular bonus game state, for example, small roles such as JAC, cherry, watermelon, and bell are defined as winning combinations and are subject to lottery in the internal lottery. In the big bonus, special small roles such as cherry, watermelon, and bell, and special bonuses such as regular bonus (or JACIN) are determined as winning roles in a predetermined small role game. It is a lottery target in the internal lottery. In the normal gaming state, for example, small roles such as cherry, watermelon and bell, replay roles such as replay, special roles such as big bonus, regular bonus, etc. are predetermined as winning roles, It is a lottery target in the lottery.

  When a special role winning that becomes a big bonus occurs in the normal gaming state, the gaming state shifts to the big bonus. With the big bonus, a predetermined game called a small role game can be played. The big bonus is ended when the total number of medals given to the player in the big bonus becomes equal to or more than a prescribed number (eg, 466). When a special role winning that becomes a regular bonus occurs in a small role game in a normal gaming state or a big bonus, the gaming state shifts to a regular bonus.

  The regular bonus ends when 12 games have been consumed or when 8 games have been won (any kind of combination can be used), whichever comes first. In the regular bonus in the normal gaming state, the regular bonus may be terminated when the total number of medals given to the player exceeds a specified number. If the total number of medals awarded to the player during the big bonus exceeds the specified number with the regular bonus in the big bonus, the regular bonus is terminated together with the big bonus.

  In the slot machine 500, when the gaming state is shifted to a special gaming state such as a regular bonus or a big bonus, the player can acquire more medals than the normal gaming state, which is more advantageous to the player than the normal gaming state. It becomes a game state. Note that the special gaming state is not limited to the regular bonus or big bonus, but the player can expect to win more medals than the normal gaming state, and the gaming state has a higher advantage for the player than the normal gaming state. If it is.

  As a gaming state having a higher advantage for the player than the normal gaming state, for example, a notification target winning derivation condition that occurs on condition that a reel derivation condition (for example, stop order or stop timing) is satisfied is used. The game state (so-called assist time) in which the operation procedure to be satisfied is notified, and the symbols displayed when the stop switches 506L, 506C, 506R are operated by limiting the pull-in range of at least one of the reels are displayed. Challenge time (CT) that allows the combination of winning symbols to be derived by controlling the game so that it is easy to stop, and when the player pushes forward, and specific winnings (for example, replay winning or single bonus winning) Such as a gaming state (so-called replay time or concentration state) that increases the probability of being allowed, and combinations of these It is sufficient, such as a gaming state in which.

  In addition, after the replay time is reached, when the predetermined symbol combination is won and the end symbol combination corresponding to the falling symbol is derived to end the replay time, the symbol combination after the replay time is reached On the condition that a predetermined number of games have been digested without being derived, control may be performed in a notification period (ART) for notifying information for avoiding the falling combination when winning the falling combination. Alternatively, the ART control may be started immediately after the big bonus or the regular bonus ends.

  In the slot machine 500, for example, a main board 600, an effect control board 620, a reel unit 650 and the like as shown in FIG. 28 are mounted. In addition, other boards such as a power supply board and a relay board connected to the main board 600 are also mounted on the slot machine 500.

  The main board 600 is provided with a game control microcomputer 610. Similar to the game control microcomputer 100 in the above embodiment, the game control microcomputer 610 is a CPU that performs control according to a program, a ROM that stores user programs and data, and a RAM that is used by the CPU as a work area. And so on. The reel unit 650 includes reel motors 651L, 651C, 651R, a reel lamp 652, a reel sensor 653, and the like. The reel motors 651L, 651C, 651R are motors for rotating the reels RL, RC, RR. The reel lamp 652 is provided inside each reel RL, RC, RR, and irradiates a symbol that can be visually recognized by the variable display device 501 among the symbols drawn on each reel RL, RC, RR from the inside of the reel. It is a lamp to do. The reel sensor 653 is a sensor for detecting the rotation state, the number of rotations, and the like of each reel RL, RC, RR.

  The effect control board 620 is connected to wiring for transmitting captured image data from the camera 533, and is equipped with an effect control CPU 630, a display control unit 631, a sound control unit 632, a lamp control unit 633, and the like. Just do it. Similar to the configuration of the pachinko gaming machine 1 shown in FIG. 2, a voice control board and a lamp control board are provided separately from the effect control board 620, and various circuits in which the function of the sound control unit 632 is mounted on the voice control board. The function of the lamp control unit 633 may be realized by various circuits mounted on the lamp control board.

  The effect control CPU 630 performs control according to the program in the same manner as the effect control CPU 120 in the above embodiment. The display control unit 631 controls the display operation in the image display device 510. Similar to the display control unit 123 in the above embodiment, the display control unit 631 processes image data in accordance with the display control command from the effect control CPU 630. And an image processing data memory for storing various image data used for displaying an image on the screen of the image display device 510.

  In the effect control CPU 630, commands and processing for controlling the effect operations by the image display device 510, the speakers 511L and 511R, the game effect lamps 512 to 514, and the like are performed according to the effect control pattern based on the effect control command received from the main board 600. Executed. On the screen of the image display device 510, for example, in the same manner as the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas in the image display device 5 in the above embodiment, “left”, “middle”, A “right” variable display section is provided, and for example, the effect control CPU 630 executes the same processing as the effect processing during variable display shown in the flowchart of FIG. 21 in the above embodiment, whereby the symbol of the variable display device 501 is displayed. Corresponding to the variable display, a plurality of types of decorative symbols that can be identified may be variably displayed. Alternatively, the decorative display variable display may not be executed in the display area of the image display device 510, and an effect image corresponding to the variable display of the design on the variable display device 501 may be displayed.

  As long as the effect image displayed in the display area of the image display device 510 can be executed using the same display image as in the above-described embodiment. At this time, captured image data generated by imaging by the camera 533 may be acquired as original image data. Using the original image data acquired in this manner, the effect control CPU 630 and the image processor of the display control unit 631 execute the same processing as in step S184 of FIG. Display image data representing a display target image having a different aspect from the original image is generated.

  After the variable display of the variable display device 501 is started, for example, the stop switch 506L is operated to stop the rotation of the reel RL, and then the stop switch 506C is operated to rotate the reel RC. Stop. At this time, in the variable display device 501, the symbol derived and displayed by the stop of the reel RL and the symbol derived and displayed by the stop of the reel RC receive a special role winning that becomes a big bonus on any winning line. It shall constitute a possible combination. Thereafter, for example, the image processing processor of the effect control CPU 630 or the display control unit 631 executes the same process as step S523 of FIG. 21 in the above embodiment, and the effect using the display image may be executed. At this time, for example, a special role such as a big bonus or a regular bonus is produced using a display image at a different ratio depending on whether or not a predetermined role to be drawn in the internal lottery is won internally. One or both of determination of whether or not to execute and selection of an image used for presentation among a plurality of types of display images may be performed. That is, the variable display based on the internal winning of the predetermined combination by the internal lottery may be an advantageous game having a higher advantage for the player than the variable display when the internal winning is not performed.

  Alternatively, among a plurality of types of special roles, the number of game media (for example, medals) that is one of the conditions for ending the gaming state that has been shifted based on the occurrence of a winning is the first number (for example, “200”). And a second special role (for example, red “7”) that becomes a second quantity (for example, “300”) larger than the first quantity. Big Bonus by Aligning), the variable display from the internal winning of the second special role until the winning occurs, the variable display from the internal winning of the first special role until the winning occurs It is good also as an advantageous game with a high advantage for a player.

  Alternatively, a first ART in which the upper limit number of times that the symbol variable display can be executed with the rotation of the reels RL, RC, and RR is the first number (for example, “50”) and the upper limit number of times that is greater than the first number It is possible to control to any one of the second ARTs that becomes the number of times (for example, “150”), and the variable display based on the decision to control to the second ART is a game rather than the variable display based on the decision to control to the first ART. It may be an advantageous game with a high degree of advantage for the player.

  Alternatively, a first ART in which a continuous lottery probability based on a predetermined winning combination (for example, re-playing combination) in the ART becomes a first probability (for example, 50%) and a second probability that the continuous lottery probability is higher than the first probability ( For example, the variable display based on the decision to control to the second ART is more advantageous to the player than the variable display based on the decision to control to the first ART. It may be an advantageous game with a high degree.

  Alternatively, the storage number (stock number) indicating the number of variable display sets (for example, one set is drawn from 50 games, 150 games, etc.) that enables information notification during ART is the first storage number (for example, “5”). There are cases where there is a case where there is a second storage number (for example, “10”) greater than the first storage number, and variable display based on the determination as the second storage number is determined as the first storage number. It may be an advantageous game having a higher advantage for the player than the variable display based on the fact.

  Alternatively, the symbol variable display during the replay time or ART may be an advantageous game having a higher degree of advantage for the player than the symbol variable display in the normal gaming state. In addition, the first ART in which the upper limit number of times that the variable display of the symbol can be performed is the first number (for example, “50”) and the second number (for example, “150”) in which the upper limit number is larger than the first number. The variable display executed during the second ART can be controlled to any one of the two ARTs, and may be an advantageous game having a higher advantage for the player than the variable display executed during the first ART. It is possible to control either the first ART in which the continuous lottery probability is the first probability (for example, 50%) or the second ART in which the continuous lottery probability is a second probability (for example, 80%) higher than the first probability. The variable display executed during 2ART may be an advantageous game having a higher advantage for the player than the variable display executed during the first ART. Variable display executed when the number of remaining stocks during ART is the second storage number (for example, “10”) larger than the first storage number (for example, “5”) is executed when the number is the first storage number. It is good also as an advantageous game with a higher advantage for a player than the variable display made. In other words, a game state having a higher advantage for the player than the predetermined game state is provided among a plurality of types of game states, and an effect using the display image is provided depending on which game state the game is in. It may be made executable.

  As described above, in the gaming machine such as the pachinko gaming machine 1 and the slot machine 500 to which the present invention is applied, for example, a predetermined deformation processing process is performed on the original image data in the process of step S184 shown in FIG. Display image data representing a display target image having a different aspect from the image is generated. Thereafter, the display target image represented by the display image data is displayed in the display area of the image display device by, for example, the rendering operation control in step S523 shown in FIG. Thereby, it is possible to produce an effect of displaying an image to be displayed that has a different aspect from the original image, and it is possible to improve the game entertainment.

  Further, for example, in the process of step S505 shown in FIG. 20, for example, a determination as to whether or not to produce an effect of displaying a display image at a different rate depending on whether or not an advantageous game is executed, and a plurality of types One or both of the selection of images to be used for presentation among the display images is performed. Thereby, the expectation that an advantageous game is executed can be made different depending on whether or not the display image is displayed and the display target aspect indicated by the display image, thereby improving the game entertainment. .

  In the process of step S182 shown in FIG. 19, original image data representing the player's facial expression is acquired as the original image to be displayed. In the process of step S184, display image data representing an image in which the player's facial expression is different from the original image is generated. As a result, it is possible to produce an effect of displaying an image in which the player's facial expression is different from the original image, and the gaming interest can be improved.

  In the process of step S184 shown in FIG. 19, the moving image data representing the moving image in which the original image represented by the original image data is used as the initial image and the mode of the display target is changed stepwise from the initial image is the display image. It may be generated as data. Thereby, the effect which displays the moving image produced | generated from the original image is attained, and game entertainment can be improved.

  In the process of step S182 shown in FIG. 19, original image data may be acquired from the outside of the gaming machine such as the pachinko gaming machine 1 or the slot machine 500. Thereby, the original image data used for generating the display image data can be surely acquired.

  A gaming machine such as the pachinko gaming machine 1 or the slot machine 500 communicates with a data management device such as an original image providing server 600 connected via a telecommunication network 550 as shown in FIG. Original image data may be acquired. Thereby, the original image data used for generating the display image data can be surely acquired.

  When it is determined in step S504 shown in FIG. 20 that display image data is not stored, the processing in step S507 is executed to switch to an effect different from the image display using the display image data. Thereby, when display image data cannot be generated, it is possible to eliminate a problem that an appropriate effect is not executed.

  If it is determined in step S183 shown in FIG. 19 that a display image cannot be generated, the process returns to step S181 and the process of step S182 can be repeatedly executed, thereby repeatedly acquiring the original image data. . Thereby, it is possible to reliably generate display image data representing an image to be displayed that has a different aspect from the original image, increase the chances that an effect using the display image is executed, and improve the game entertainment. .

  In the process of step S188 shown in FIG. 19, it is determined that the image erasure timing has come when the demonstration screen display is performed in response to the fact that the variable display game is not executed. Based on the determination result, the original image and the display image are deleted in the process of step S189. Thereby, when a player changes, it can prevent that the original image and display image of the player before change are used.

  Alternatively, in the process of step S188 shown in FIG. 19, it is determined that the image erasure timing has come when image erasure is selected by an instruction operation to the stick controller 31A or the push button 31B. Based on the determination result, the original image and the display image are deleted in the process of step S189. Thereby, according to the player's intention, it is possible to set whether or not to produce an effect for displaying the display image, and it is possible to prevent a decrease in the gaming interest.

  When there is an instruction to confirm the display image in the process of step S186 shown in FIG. 19, by executing the process of step S187, the display target image subjected to the deformation process is displayed so that the player can confirm it. . Thereby, even when the presentation is not executed, it is possible to confirm a display target image having a different aspect from the original image, for example, a display image in which the player's facial expression is changed, thereby increasing the player's interest. it can.

  In the process of step S522 shown in FIG. 21, even if the display operation of the display image is controlled so that the mode of the display target changes based on the detection of the instruction operation on the stick controller 31A or the push button 31B. Good. Thereby, a player's willingness to participate can be improved and a game interest can be improved.

  In the process of step S182 shown in FIG. 19, captured image data representing a player image generated by imaging using the camera 33 is acquired as original image data. Thereby, original image data can be easily acquired without hindering the progress of the game in the gaming machine.

  As an example, the process of step S182 is performed by continuing the process of step S181 until the predetermined condition that the acquisition time after the start of the predetermined effect elapses after the start of the predetermined effect is satisfied. The captured image data may be acquired by the above. As a result, the captured image data representing the image of the player who pays attention to the gaming machine when the effect is started is obtained, and the original image data representing the expression of the player suitable for generating the display image is obtained. can do.

  As another example, until the predetermined condition such that a predetermined post-switching acquisition time elapses after the demonstration screen display is switched to the decorative symbol variable display, the process of step S181 continues and As a result, captured image data may be acquired in the process of step S182. As a result, captured image data representing the image of the player who has turned his attention to the gaming machine when variable display is started is acquired, and original image data representing the expression of the player suitable for generating a display image is obtained. Can be acquired.

  As another example, until the predetermined condition that the acquisition time after the start of a predetermined game elapses after the game in the gaming machine is started, the original image acquisition timing continues by the process of step S181. Captured image data may be acquired in the process of step S182. As a result, when the game is started, the captured image data representing the image of the player who pays attention to the gaming machine is acquired, and the original image data representing the expression of the player suitable for generating the display image is acquired. can do.

  The present invention is not limited to the above embodiment, and various modifications and applications are possible. For example, the pachinko gaming machine 1 may not have all the technical features shown in the above embodiment, and the one described in the above embodiment so as to solve at least one problem in the prior art. The structure of the part may be provided. More specifically, a configuration in which either one of captured image data representing a player's image generated by imaging using a camera and image data acquired from outside the gaming machine can be acquired as original image data. What is necessary is just to have.

  In addition, the device configuration of the pachinko gaming machine 1 and the slot machine 500, the data configuration, the processing shown in the flowchart, various rendering operations including the rendering operation of the rendering image in the display area of the image display device, etc. Changes and modifications can be arbitrarily made without departing from the spirit of the invention. In addition, the gaming machine of the present invention is not limited to a payout type gaming machine that pays out a predetermined number of gaming media as prizes based on the occurrence of winnings, and is scored based on the occurrence of winnings by enclosing gaming media It can also be applied to an enclosed game machine that gives

  The program and data for realizing the present invention are limited to a form distributed and provided by a removable recording medium to a computer device or the like included in a gaming machine such as the pachinko gaming machine 1 or the slot machine 500. Instead, it may be distributed in advance by preinstalling it in a storage device such as a computer device. Furthermore, the program and data for realizing the present invention are distributed by downloading from other devices on a network connected via a communication line or the like by providing a communication processing unit. It doesn't matter.

  The game execution mode is not only executed by attaching a detachable recording medium, but can also be executed by temporarily storing the program and data downloaded via a communication line or the like in an internal memory or the like. It is also possible to execute directly using hardware resources on the other device side on a network connected via a communication line or the like. Furthermore, the game can be executed by exchanging data with other computer devices or the like via a network.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Pachinko machine 2 ... Game board 3 ... Gaming machine frame 4A, 4B ... Special symbol display device 5, 510 ... Image display device 6 ... Normal variable winning ball device 7 ... Special variable winning ball device 8L, 8R, 511L, 511R ... Speaker 9, 512-514 ... Game effect lamp 11, 600 ... Main board 12, 620 ... Production control board 13 ... Audio control board 14 ... Lamp control board 15 ... Relay board 20 ... Normal symbol display 21 ... Gate switch 22A , 22B ... Start-up switch 23 ... Count switches 33, 533 ... Cameras 100, 610 ... Game control microcomputer 103 ... CPU
101, 121 ... ROM
102, 122 ... RAM
104, 124 ... random number circuit 105, 125 ... I / O
120, 630 ... CPU for effect control
123, 631 ... Display control unit 632 ... Sound control unit 633 ... Lamp control unit 650 ... Reel units RL, RC, RR ... Reel

Claims (1)

A gaming machine capable of playing a game,
Image display means for displaying an image;
Image data acquisition means for acquiring original image data corresponding to one facial expression indicated by the player;
Image data generating means for generating display image data corresponding to a plurality of facial expressions showing different emotions of the player by performing predetermined deformation processing on the original image data;
When it is possible to generate a determination result as to whether or not the display image data can be generated, an image represented by the display image data is displayed on the image display unit according to the advantage for the player. And an image display control means for displaying an image different from the image represented by the display image data when the determination result cannot be generated .
A gaming machine characterized by that.

Images