JP6085128B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

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

  In a conventional gaming machine, for example, a pachinko gaming machine, whether or not to execute a special game (whether it is a big hit) based on game information (random number) acquired when a game ball enters the start port It is known that a determination is made and various effects suggesting the determination result are performed on the display screen in accordance with the variation display of the determination symbol indicating the determination result.

  As the above-mentioned effects, an effect that displays decorative symbols in a variable manner, or an effect that suggests the degree of expectation that will be a big hit after the remaining one of the decorative symbols is put into a big hit (so-called reach state) (so-called reach effect) Is often performed. Further, in recent years, a notice effect for notifying that the reach effect is executed is also performed (for example, Patent Document 1). That is, with the start of the change of the determination symbol, for example, a specific character is displayed or the background image is changed, so that the reach effect is executed (the occurrence of the reach state) is notified. When such a notice effect is executed, a reach state is expected to occur, so that the player can pay attention to the effect with a sense of expectation that it may be a big hit.

JP 2004-073754 A

  However, in the conventional gaming machine as described above, the effect executed after the notice effect is easily predicted (that is, the reach effect is expected to be executed in advance), so the game has been played for a long time. There is a problem that the player's interest in the notice effect is diminished and the interest of the game cannot be enhanced by the notice effect.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and a main object thereof is to provide a gaming machine capable of executing a notice effect that can enhance the interest of the game.

  In order to achieve the above object, the present invention employs the following configuration. In addition, reference numerals in parentheses, explanations, and the like indicate correspondence with embodiments described later in order to help understanding of the present invention, and do not limit the scope of the present invention.

  The gaming machine (1) according to the present embodiment determines whether or not to perform a special game when the game ball enters the start opening (25a, 25b) provided in the game area (20) where the game ball can flow down. Based on the determination result by the special game determination means (100) and the special game determination means, the symbol display means (31a, 31b) changes the symbol, and then the variable display that stops the determination symbol indicating the determination result The symbol display control means (100) for controlling the effect, the effect determination means (400) for determining the effect to be executed by the effect execution means (21, 22, 23, etc.), and the effect control for controlling the effect to be executed by the effect execution means Means (400, 500, 600), and the effect control means causes the effect execution means to execute a special effect (reach effect shown in FIG. 11) based on the determination result by the special game determination means. The effect control means (400, 500, 600) and the notification effect control means (400 that causes the effect execution means to execute the notification effect (the winning notification effect shown in (3) of FIG. 7) for notifying the determination result by the special game determination means. , 500, 600) and a plurality of development destination effects (each of the effects shown in (2) to (6) of FIG. 12) that may be developed after the notice effect (in FIG. 12, ( In the above-described variable display, if it is determined that the special effect is executed by the effect determining means (400, 500, 600) that causes the effect executing means to execute the notice effect shown in 1) The notice effect control means causes the notice effect to be executed for the first variation time (see the right diagram of (2) in FIG. 14), and the special effect control means causes the special effect to be executed as the development effect after the notice effect. , Production decision means When it is determined that the notification effect is to be further executed, the notice effect control means causes the notice effect control means to execute the second effect time (see the right diagram of (3) in FIG. 14) in the variable display, and the notice effect control means. Causes the notification effect to be executed as the development effect after the notice effect.

  ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, the game machine which can perform the notice effect which can improve the interest property of a game can be provided.

Schematic front view showing an example of a pachinko gaming machine 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention The enlarged view which shows an example of the indicator 4 provided in the pachinko machine 1 of FIG. Partial plan view of the pachinko gaming machine 1 of FIG. The block diagram which shows an example of a structure of the control apparatus provided in the pachinko gaming machine 1 The figure for demonstrating an example of the jackpot breakdown of the special symbol lottery which concerns on this embodiment The figure for demonstrating an example of the kind of decoration design DI which concerns on this embodiment The figure for demonstrating an example of the change display of the decoration design DI which concerns on this embodiment, and the display of the hold image RI The figure for demonstrating the outline | summary of the pseudo | simulation continuous production which concerns on this embodiment The figure for demonstrating the outline | summary of the zone production which concerns on this embodiment The figure for demonstrating an example of a response | compatibility with the color design pattern of a specific losing eye, and zone production The figure for demonstrating the outline | summary of the reach production which concerns on this embodiment The figure for demonstrating the outline | summary of the notice effect which concerns on this embodiment The figure for demonstrating the outline | summary of the 1st production without a notice concerning this embodiment. The figure for demonstrating the outline | summary of the 1st production with a notice concerning this embodiment The figure for demonstrating the outline | summary of the 2nd production without a notice concerning this embodiment The figure for demonstrating the outline | summary of the 2nd production with a notice concerning this embodiment The figure for demonstrating the outline | summary of the 3rd production without a notice concerning this embodiment The figure for demonstrating the outline | summary of the 3rd production with a notice concerning this embodiment An example of a flowchart showing timer interrupt processing performed by the main control unit 100 An example of a detailed flowchart of the start port switch process in step S2 of FIG. An example of a detailed flowchart of the special symbol process in step S4 of FIG. An example of a flowchart showing effect control processing performed by the effect control unit 400

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

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

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

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

  In addition, the game board 2 is provided with an image display unit 21 that displays images for various effects at positions that are easily visible to the player. The image display unit 21 notifies the player of the result of the special symbol lottery (big hit lottery), for example, by displaying a decorative symbol according to the progress of the game by the player, or by the appearance of a character or the appearance of an item A notice effect is displayed, or a hold image indicating the number of times the execution of the special symbol lottery is put on hold is displayed. The image display unit 21 is configured by a liquid crystal display device, an EL (Electro Luminescence) display device, or the like, but any other display device may be used. Further, a movable accessory 22 and a board lamp 23 used for various effects are provided on the front surface of the game board 2. The movable accessory 22 is configured to be movable with respect to the game board 2 and produces an effect by performing a predetermined operation in accordance with the progress of the game or in accordance with the player's operation. Further, the board lamp 23 emits light according to the progress of the game, thereby performing various effects by light.

  The game area 20 is provided with a game nail and a windmill (both not shown) that change the direction in which the game ball falls downward. Further, in the game area 20, various bonuses related to winning and lottery are arranged at predetermined positions. In FIG. 1, as an example of various prizes related to winning and lottery, a first starting port 25a, a second starting port 25b, a gate 27, a big winning port 28, and a normal winning port 29 are arranged on the game board 2. It is installed. Further, the game area 20 is provided with a discharge port 24 through which game balls that have not been won in any of the game holes launched into the game area 20 are discharged out of the game area 20. .

  The first start opening 25a and the second start opening 25b each receive a prize when a game ball enters, and a special symbol lottery (big hit lottery) is started. The first start opening 25a operates a predetermined special electric accessory (big prize opening 28) and / or a predetermined special symbol display (for example, a first special symbol display 31a described later). This is a winning opening related to winning a game ball. In addition, the second start opening 25b operates the special electric accessory (big prize opening 28) and / or a predetermined special symbol display (for example, a second special symbol display 31b described later). This is a winning opening related to winning a game ball. When the game ball passes through the gate 27, the normal symbol lottery (the open / close lottery of the electric tulip 26 described below) starts.

  The 2nd starting opening 25b is provided in the lower part of the 1st starting opening 25a, and is provided with the electric tulip 26 near the entrance of a game ball as an example of a normal electric accessory. The electric tulip 26 has a pair of wings imitating tulip flowers, and the pair of wings open and close left and right by driving an electric tulip opening / closing unit 112 (for example, an electric solenoid) described later. When the pair of blade portions are closed, the electric tulip 26 is in a state in which the game ball does not enter the second starting port 25b because the opening width guided to the inlet of the second starting port 25b is extremely narrow. On the other hand, the electric tulip 26 is configured such that when the pair of blade portions are opened to the left and right, the opening width guided to the inlet of the second starting port 25b increases, so that the game ball can easily enter the second starting port 25b. Has been. When the electric tulip 26 passes through the gate 27 and the normal symbol lottery is won, the pair of blades opens for a specified time (for example, 0.15 seconds or 1.80 seconds), and the specified number of times (for example, Open and close only once or three times.

  The special winning opening 28 is located below the second start opening 25b and opens according to the result of the special symbol lottery. The special winning opening 28 is normally in a closed state so that no game balls can enter, but depending on the result of the special symbol lottery, it protrudes from the main surface of the game board 2 and is in an open state. The game ball is easy to enter. For example, the big winning opening 28 repeats a round that is in an open state until a predetermined condition (for example, 29.5 seconds elapses or 9 game balls are won) is repeated a predetermined number of times (for example, 16 times). Note that the lottery is not started at the normal winning opening 29 even if a game ball is won.

  In addition, a display 3 is provided at a predetermined position (for example, lower right) of the game board 2 to display the result of the special symbol lottery or the normal symbol lottery described above and the number of reserved symbols. Details of the display 3 will be described later.

  Here, the payout of prize balls will be described. When a game ball enters (wins) the first start port 25a, the second start port 25b, the big winning port 28, and the normal winning port 29, a predetermined number per game ball is determined according to the place where the game ball has won. The prize ball is paid out. For example, when one game ball is won at the first start port 25a and the second start port 25b, four prize balls are awarded, and when one game ball is won at the big prize port 28, thirteen prize balls are given to the normal prize opening 29. When one game ball is won, ten prize balls are paid out. Even if it is detected that the game ball has passed through the gate 27, there is no payout of the prize ball in conjunction with it.

  The frame member 5 on the front surface of the gaming machine 1 includes a handle 51, a lever 52, a stop button 53, a take-out button 54, a speaker 55, a frame lamp 56, an effect button 57, an effect key 58, a dish 59, a lock part 43, and the like. Is provided.

  When the player touches the handle 51 and performs an operation of rotating the lever 52 clockwise, the launching device 211 (at 100 hits per minute) with a hitting force corresponding to the operation angle (for example, 100 per minute). 4) electrically fires the game ball. The tray 59 (see FIG. 3) is provided so as to protrude forward of the gaming machine 1, and temporarily stores game balls to be supplied to the launching device 211. In addition, the above-described prize ball is paid out to the plate 59. Then, the game balls stored in the tray 59 are supplied to the launching device 211 one by one by a supply device (not shown) at a timing linked with the operation by the player's lever 52.

  The stop button 53 is provided on the lower side surface of the handle 51, and even when the player touches the handle 51 and rotates the lever 52 clockwise, the game ball is fired by being pressed by the player. Is temporarily stopped. The take-out button 54 is provided on the front surface in the vicinity of the position where the tray 59 is provided. When the player presses the game ball, the game ball stored on the tray 59 is dropped into a box (not shown).

  The speaker 55 and the frame lamp 56 respectively notify the gaming state and situation of the gaming machine 1 and perform various effects. The speaker 55 performs various sounds using music, voice, sound effects, and the like. Further, the frame lamp 56 performs various light effects depending on the pattern of lighting / flashing, the difference in emission color, and the like.

  Next, the display 3 provided in the gaming machine 1 will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 2, the display 3 includes a first special symbol display 31a, a second special symbol display 31b, a first special symbol hold indicator 32a, a second special symbol hold indicator 32b, a normal symbol indicator 33, and a normal symbol indicator 33. A symbol hold display 34 and a game status display 35 are provided.

  On the first special symbol display 31a, the display symbol is changed and displayed in correspondence with the winning of the game ball at the first starting port 25a. For example, the first special symbol display 31a is composed of a 7-segment display device, and when a game ball wins at the first start opening 25a, the special symbol is displayed in a variable manner and the lottery result is displayed. In addition, on the second special symbol display 31b, the display symbol is changed and displayed in response to the winning of the game ball in the second starting port 25b. For example, the second special symbol display 31b is similarly composed of a 7-segment display device, and when a game ball is won at the second starting port 25b, the special symbol is displayed in a variable manner and the lottery result is displayed. In the normal symbol display 33, the display symbol is changed and displayed in response to the game ball passing through the gate 27. For example, the normal symbol display 33 is constituted by an LED display device, and when a game ball passes through the gate 27, the normal symbol is variably displayed and the lottery result is displayed.

  The first special symbol hold indicator 32a displays the number of times the special symbol lottery is held when a game ball wins at the first start opening 25a. The second special symbol hold indicator 32b displays the number of times that the special symbol lottery result is held when a game ball is won in the second start opening 25b. The normal symbol hold display 34 displays the number of times the normal symbol lottery is held. For example, a period in which the display symbols are displayed in a variable manner by the first special symbol display 31a, the second special symbol display 31b, or the normal symbol display 33 (while the change display for one winning is being performed), etc. When a game ball wins further during a period when the display variation of the display symbol cannot be started immediately, the variation display of the display symbol for the winning game ball is a display symbol such as the variation display for the previously won game ball ends. Until the change display becomes possible, it is held for a predetermined number of times (for example, four times). The fact that such a hold has been made and the number of the hold are displayed on the first special symbol hold indicator 32a, the second special symbol indicator 31b, and the normal symbol hold indicator 34, respectively. For example, the first special symbol hold indicator 32a, the second special symbol indicator 31b, and the normal symbol hold indicator 34 are each constituted by LED display devices arranged in a row, and the number of times of hold is displayed according to the lighting mode. .

  The game state display 35 displays a game state (for example, a normal game state, a probability change short game state) when the gaming machine 1 is turned on.

  Next, an input device provided in the gaming machine 1 will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 3, the gaming machine 1 is provided with an effect button 57 and an effect key 58 as an example of an input device.

  The effect button 57 and the effect key 58 are provided for the player to input the effect. The effect button 57 is provided on the upper side of the dish 59 protruding forward of the gaming machine 1. The effect key 58 has a center key 58E and a plurality of direction keys 58U, 58D, 58L, and 58R arranged in a cross shape, and is provided on the upper side of the plate 59 adjacent to the effect button 57. The effect button 57 and the effect key 58 are each pressed by the player to perform a predetermined effect. For example, the player can enjoy a predetermined effect by pressing the effect button 57 at a predetermined timing. Further, the player can select one of a plurality of images displayed on the image display unit 21 by operating the four direction keys 58U, 58D, 58L, and 58R. Further, the player can input the selected image as information by operating the center key 58E.

  In addition, on the back side of the gaming machine 1, a ball tank for storing game balls for payout and a payout device (payout drive unit 311) for paying out the game balls to the plate 59 are provided, and various substrates are attached. ing. For example, a main board, a sub board, and the like are disposed on the rear surface of the game board 2. Specifically, a main control board on which a main control unit 100 (see FIG. 4) that performs internal lottery and determination of winning is configured is disposed on the main board. The sub-board includes a firing control board 200 (see FIG. 4) configured to control a launching device 211 that launches a game ball to the upper part of the game area 20, and a payout control unit 300 that controls the payout of a prize ball. A payout control board configured with an effect control board configured with an effect control section 400 for overall control of effects, an image control board configured with an image acoustic control section 500 for controlling effects with images and sounds, and various types The lamp control board etc. with which the lamp control part 600 which controls the production | presentation by the lamp (frame lamp 56, the board lamp 23) and the movable accessory 22 are comprised are arrange | positioned. In addition, on the rear surface of the gaming board 2, the power source of the gaming machine 1 is switched on / off, and 24V (volt) AC power supplied to the gaming machine 1 is converted into DC power of various voltages. A switching power supply is provided for outputting the direct current power to the various substrates described above.

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

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

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

  The main control unit 100 performs a special symbol lottery (big hit lottery) when a game ball wins in the first starting port 25a or the second starting port 25b, and effects control is performed on determination result data indicating whether or not the special symbol lottery is won. Send to part 400.

  The main control unit 100 controls the opening time when the blade portion of the electric tulip 26 is opened, the number of times the blade portion is opened and closed, and the opening / closing time interval at which the blade portion is opened and closed. In addition, the main control unit 100 holds the special symbol lottery hold number when the game ball wins the first start opening 25a, the special symbol lottery hold number when the game ball wins the second start opening 25b, and the game The number of times of holding the normal symbol lottery when the ball passes through the gate 27 is managed, and data related to the number of times of holding is sent to the effect control unit 400.

  The main control unit 100 controls the opening / closing operation of the special winning opening 28 according to the result of the special symbol lottery. For example, the main control unit 100 repeats a predetermined number of rounds (for example, 16 times) in which the big winning opening 28 protrudes and is inclined and opened until a predetermined condition (for example, 29.5 seconds elapses or 9 game balls are won). Control) to repeat. The main control unit 100 also controls the opening / closing time interval (interval time) at which the special winning opening 28 opens and closes.

  When a game ball wins in the first start port 25a, the second start port 25b, the big winning port 28, and the normal winning port 29, the main control unit 100 determines a predetermined amount per game ball according to the place where the game ball has won. The payout control unit 300 is instructed to pay out the number of prize balls. Even if the main control unit 100 detects that the game ball has passed through the gate 27, the main control unit 100 does not instruct the payout control unit 300 to pay out the prize ball in conjunction therewith. When the payout control unit 300 pays out a prize ball according to an instruction from the main control unit 100, information on the number of prize balls paid out from the payout control unit 300 is sent to the main control unit 100. Then, the main control unit 100 manages the number of paid-out prize balls based on the information acquired from the payout control unit 300.

  The main control unit 100 controls the launching device 211 that launches the game ball via the launch control unit 200. For example, the main control unit 100 transmits a signal permitting the operation of the launching device 211 to launch a game ball to the launch control unit 200 via the payout control unit 300 based on a predetermined condition.

  In order to realize the above-described functions, the main control unit 100 includes a first start port switch 111a, a second start port switch 111b, an electric tulip opening / closing unit 112, a gate switch 113, a big prize opening switch 114, a big prize opening opening / closing. 115, normal winning opening switch 116, first special symbol indicator 31a, second special symbol indicator 31b, first special symbol hold indicator 32a, second special symbol hold indicator 32b, normal symbol indicator 33, normal A symbol hold display 34 and a game status display 35 are connected.

  The first start port switch 111 a detects that a game ball has won the first start port 25 a and sends a detection signal to the main control unit 100. The second start port switch 111b detects that a game ball has won the second start port 25b and sends a detection signal to the main control unit 100. The electric tulip opening / closing unit 112 opens and closes the pair of blade portions of the electric tulip 26 in response to a control signal sent from the main control unit 100. The gate switch 113 detects that the game ball has passed through the gate 27 and sends a detection signal to the main control unit 100. The big prize opening switch 114 detects that a game ball has won the big prize opening 28 and sends a detection signal to the main control unit 100. The special prize opening / closing unit 115 opens and closes the special prize opening 28 in response to a control signal sent from the main control unit 100. The normal winning port switch 116 detects that a game ball has won the normal winning port 29 and sends a detection signal to the main control unit 100.

  In addition, the main control unit 100 displays the result of the special symbol lottery started by winning the game ball to the first starting port 25a (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the first special symbol lottery) on the first special symbol display 31a. indicate. The main control unit 100 displays on the second special symbol display 31b the result of a special symbol lottery started by winning a game ball in the second starting port 25b (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as a second special symbol lottery). . The main control unit 100 displays the number of suspensions of the first special symbol lottery on the first special symbol retention indicator 32a. The main control unit 100 displays the second special symbol lottery hold count on the second special symbol hold indicator 32b. The main control unit 100 displays the result of the normal symbol lottery started by passing the game ball to the gate 27 on the normal symbol display 33. The main control unit 100 displays the normal symbol lottery hold count on the normal symbol hold indicator 34. The main control unit 100 displays the gaming state on the gaming state display 35 when the gaming machine 1 is powered on.

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

  When the position of the lever 52 is in the neutral position, the lever 52 is in a firing stop state without outputting a signal. When the player is rotated clockwise by the player, the lever 52 outputs a signal corresponding to the rotation angle to the firing control unit 200 as a hitting ball firing command signal. The launch control unit 200 controls the launch operation of the launch device 211 based on the hit ball launch command signal. For example, the launch control unit 200 controls the operation of the launch device 211 such that the speed at which the game ball is launched increases as the rotation angle of the lever 52 increases. Further, the launch control unit 200 can perform the launch operation of the launch device 211 by receiving a signal permitting launch from the main control unit 100. On the other hand, when the signal indicating that the stop button 53 is pressed is output or the control signal for stopping the emission is output from the main control unit 100, the launch control unit 200 performs the operation of launching the game ball by the launch device 211. Stop.

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

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

  The effect control unit 400 includes a CPU 401, a ROM 402, a RAM 403, and an RTC (real time clock) 404. In addition, the effect control unit 400 is connected to the effect button 57 and the effect key 58, and acquires operation data output from the effect button 57 and the effect key 58 in response to an operation pressed by the player. The CPU 401 performs a calculation process when controlling the effect. The ROM 402 stores programs executed by the CPU 401, various data, and the like, and the RAM 403 is used as a working memory for the CPU 401. The RTC 404 measures the current date and time.

  The production control unit 400 sets production contents based on data indicating the special symbol lottery result and the like sent from the main control unit 100. In addition, when the effect button 57 or the effect key 58 is pressed down by the player, the effect control unit 400 may set the effect content according to the operation input or the detection result.

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

  The image sound control unit 500 controls the image displayed on the image display unit 21 and the sound output from the speaker 55 based on the command sent from the effect control unit 400. Specifically, the ROM 502 has a decorative symbol image for notifying a player of a special symbol lottery result, a character or item image for displaying a notice effect for the player, and a special symbol lottery for the player. Image data for displaying a reserved image indicating that it is reserved, various background images, and the like on the image display unit 21 is stored. The ROM 502 stores various types of acoustic data such as music and audio to be output from the speaker 55 in synchronization with the image displayed on the image display unit 21 or independently of the displayed image. The CPU 501 selects and reads out the data corresponding to the command sent from the effect control unit 400 from the image data and sound data stored in the ROM 502. Then, the CPU 501 performs image processing for background image display, decorative symbol display, decorative symbol fluctuation stop display, character / item display, hold image display, and the like using the read image data, and the effect control unit 400. Various effects display corresponding to the command sent from is performed. Then, the CPU 501 displays the image indicated by the image processed image data on the image display unit 21. Further, the CPU 501 performs sound processing using the read sound data, and outputs the sound indicated by the sound processing sound data from the speaker 55.

  The lamp control unit 600 includes a CPU 601, a ROM 602, and a RAM 603. The CPU 601 performs arithmetic processing when controlling the light emission of the panel lamp 23 and the frame lamp 56 and the operation of the movable accessory 22. The ROM 602 stores programs executed by the CPU 601 and various data, and the RAM 603 is used as a working memory for the CPU 601.

  The lamp control unit 600 controls the lighting / flashing of the panel lamp 23 and the frame lamp 56, the emission color, and the like based on the command sent from the effect control unit 400. In addition, the lamp control unit 600 controls the operation of the movable accessory 22 based on the command sent from the effect control unit 400. Specifically, the ROM 602 stores lighting / flashing pattern data and light emission color pattern data (light emission pattern data) for the panel lamp 23 and the frame lamp 56 according to the content of the effect set by the effect control unit 400. ing. The CPU 601 selects and reads out the light emission pattern data stored in the ROM 602 corresponding to the command sent from the effect control unit 400 and controls the light emission of the panel lamp 23 and the frame lamp 56. In addition, the ROM 602 stores operation pattern data of the movable accessory 22 corresponding to the production contents set by the production control unit 400. The CPU 601 selects and reads out the operation pattern data stored in the ROM 602 corresponding to the command sent from the effect control unit 400 and controls the operation of the movable accessory 22.

[Outline of gaming state in this embodiment]
Next, the gaming state of the gaming machine 1 in this embodiment will be described. The gaming state of the gaming machine 1 includes at least a highly accurate state, an electric support state, a short time state, a big hit gaming state, and a normal state. The high probability state is a gaming state in which the winning probability of the special symbol lottery is set to a high probability (1/30: low probability is 1/300). The electric support state is, for example, that the electric tulip 26 is frequently opened for a long time by controlling the electric tulip 26 to be opened for a long time when the winning probability of the normal symbol lottery is increased and the normal symbol lottery is won. This is a gaming state in which game balls are frequently won at the second start opening 25b. The short time state is a gaming state in which the execution interval of the special symbol lottery is shortened. The jackpot gaming state is a gaming state in which a jackpot game is executed in which a special symbol lottery is won (winning) and the jackpot 28 is opened. The normal state is a normal gaming state that is not any of the above gaming states. The normal state and the big hit game state do not coexist with other game states, respectively, but the high-accuracy state, the electric support state, and the short-time state may coexist with each other. In the present embodiment, the electric support state and the short time state are always controlled at the same time. Therefore, the electric support state and the short time state are collectively referred to as a short time state hereinafter. At this time, in a short state, the player can execute a lot of special symbol lotteries in a short time with almost no decrease in game balls. In the following, the high-accuracy state and the short-time state are referred to as a high-precision / short-time state, and the short-time state rather than the high-accuracy state is referred to as a low-precision / short-time state. In the present embodiment, there is no gaming state that is a highly accurate state and not a short-time state.

[Outline of the jackpot game in this embodiment]
Next, the outline of the jackpot game of the special symbol lottery in this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining an example of the jackpot breakdown of the special symbol lottery according to the present embodiment. (1) of FIG. 5 shows the jackpot breakdown of the special symbol lottery by winning the game ball to the first starting port 25a, and (2) of FIG. 5 shows the special symbol lottery by winning the game ball to the second starting port 25b. The breakdown of jackpot is shown. As shown in (1) of FIG. 5, the special symbol lottery breakdown of the special symbol lottery by winning the game ball to the first starting opening 25a has a winning probability of 60% with probability of winning with a ball and winning with probability of winning without a ball. The probability is 10%, and the probability of winning a normal jackpot with a ball is 30%. Also, as shown in FIG. 5 (2), the special symbol lottery breakdown by winning the game ball to the second starting port 25b is that the winning probability of the winning big hit with a ball is 70%, and the normal big hit without a ball The winning probability is 30%. The jackpot game when winning each of these jackpots will be described below.

  When a jackpot game that is executed when winning a winning jackpot with a ball is started (hereinafter referred to as a jackpot gaming jackpot game with a ball), the special winning opening 28 is changed from a closed state to an open state after a predetermined opening time has elapsed. 1 round (hereinafter may be simply referred to as “R”) is started. In 1R, when nine game balls are won in the big winning opening 28 or when the opening time is 29.5 seconds, the big winning opening 28 is changed from the open state to the closed state, and 1R is ended. Then, after an interval period (for example, 2 seconds) between rounds is provided, the grand prize opening 28 is opened and closed in the same manner as 1R, and 2R ends. Thereafter, similarly, a predetermined number of rounds are executed by opening and closing the special prize opening 28 with an interval period interposed therebetween. A plurality of times (number of rounds; for example, 16 times, 10 times, and 4 times) are set as the predetermined number of times according to the type of the probability variation big hit with a ball. Then, when a predetermined ending time has elapsed, the game with a certain amount of game and the odd hit game ends. After that, the gaming state is controlled to the high probability / short time state. This highly accurate / short time state is continued until the next special symbol lottery is won.

  When a jackpot game that is executed when winning a winning change without winning a ball (hereinafter referred to as a winning change without winning ball game) is started, after a predetermined opening time has elapsed, the big winning opening 28 is changed from the closed state to the opened state. When a short time (for example, 0.1 second) elapses, a round in which the special winning opening 28 is changed from the open state to the closed state is executed a predetermined number of times (for example, twice). In other words, in the promising big hit game without a ball, the winning prize opening 28 is opened only momentarily, so that the game ball rarely enters the winning prize opening 28, and the player cannot substantially obtain the winning ball. . Then, when a predetermined ending time has elapsed, the no-out-out-probable big hit game ends. After that, the gaming state is controlled to the high probability / short time state. This highly accurate / short time state is continued until the next special symbol lottery is won.

  When a big hit game executed when a normal big hit with a ball is won (hereinafter referred to as a normal big hit game with a ball) is started, the special winning opening 28 is changed from a closed state to an open state after a predetermined opening time. 1R is started. In 1R, when nine game balls are won in the big winning opening 28 or when the opening time is 29.5 seconds, the big winning opening 28 is changed from the open state to the closed state, and 1R is ended. Then, after an interval period (for example, 2 seconds) between rounds is provided, the grand prize opening 28 is opened and closed in the same manner as 1R, and 2R ends. Thereafter, similarly, a predetermined number of rounds (for example, 7 times) are executed by opening and closing the special winning opening 28 with an interval period interposed therebetween. When a predetermined ending time elapses, the normal big hit game with a game is completed. Thereafter, the gaming state is controlled to the low probability / short time state. Note that the time-short state in this case ends when the special symbol lottery is executed a predetermined number of times (for example, 100 times).

  When a jackpot game that is executed in the case of winning a normal jackpot without a payout (hereinafter referred to as a normal jackpot game without a payout) starts, after a predetermined opening time elapses, the big prize opening 28 is changed from a closed state to an open state. When a short time (for example, 0.1 second) elapses, a round in which the special winning opening 28 is changed from the open state to the closed state is executed a predetermined number of times (for example, 7 times). In other words, in the normal big hit game with no game, the big winning opening 28 is opened only momentarily, so that the game ball rarely enters the big winning opening 28, and the player cannot substantially obtain the winning ball. . Then, when a predetermined ending time has elapsed, the normal big hit game without a ball is finished. Thereafter, the gaming state is controlled to the low probability / short time state. Note that the time-short state in this case ends when the special symbol lottery is executed a predetermined number of times (for example, 100 times).

  Next, an outline of game progress and an outline of characteristic operations according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

[Types of decorative designs in this embodiment]
First, the types of decorative symbols in the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining an example of the types of decorative symbols DI. As will be described later, the decorative symbol DI is a symbol for informing the determination result that the special symbol lottery has been performed. In the present embodiment, the determination result is notified using three decorative symbols DI1 to DI3. .

  In the image of the decorative design DI, a so-called “diet”, a number design that can be notified of a big hit by aligning three (or matching a specific pattern) is drawn, and the whole image or A color pattern is attached to a part of the image (for example, a number itself) in an identifiable manner. Specifically, as shown in (1) of FIG. 6, a decorative design DI in which “2”, “4”, “6”, and “8” are drawn as numeric symbols is blue as a color symbol. As shown in (2) of FIG. 6, the decorative design DI in which “1” and “9” are drawn as numerical symbols is a pink symbol with a pink color as a color symbol. Yes, as shown in (3) of FIG. 6, the decorative design DI in which “3” and “5” are drawn as the numerical designs is a red design with red as the color design. As shown in 4), the decorative design DI in which “7” is drawn as a number design is a gold design with a gold color as a color design. In the present embodiment, the above-described gold symbol functions as a symbol (almighty symbol) that plays various roles. For example, if all three decorative symbols DI are aligned with a gold symbol (number symbol 7), it is suggested that the big hit is a probable big hit with a ball, or the central ornament symbol (decorative symbol DI3 to be described later) is a gold symbol. By temporarily stopping at, it is used as an opportunity to generate a pseudo-continuous effect described later, or used as an opportunity to develop a zone development effect described later. Further, in this embodiment, the numerical design is used as the outcome, but in addition to the numerical design, other designs such as a character design and a character design may be used, and such other designs are used together. May be.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 7, an outline of the decorative symbol variation display and the hold display performed in the pachinko gaming machine 1 will be described. FIG. 7 shows a state in which the decorative symbol DI is variably displayed and a reserved image RI indicating that the special symbol lottery is suspended is informed to notify the determination result that the special symbol lottery has been performed. FIG. In the following, a case where the first special symbol lottery is performed as the special symbol lottery and an image indicating that the first special symbol lottery is suspended is displayed as the reserved image will be described as an example. The same applies when the second special symbol lottery is performed as the lottery.

[Outline of winning notification by decorative pattern in this embodiment]
First, the outline of the winning notification by the decorative symbol variation display in the present embodiment will be described. As shown in (1) of FIG. 7, decorative symbols DI (DI1 to DI3) are displayed on the image display unit 21. The decorative symbol DI is composed of three decorative symbols DI1 to DI3 and is displayed in the center area of the display screen of the image display unit 21. More specifically, the first decorative design DI1 is displayed on the left side of the central area, the second decorative design DI2 is displayed on the right side of the central area, and the third decorative design DI3 is displayed on the center of the central area. The The first to third decorative symbols DI1 to DI3 are variably displayed in accordance with the variably displayed special symbols. The display positions of the first to third decorative symbols DI1 to DI3 on the screen may be changed. Moreover, the 1st-3rd decoration symbols DI1-DI3 may be arrange | positioned along with the up-down direction, and may be arrange | positioned along with the diagonal direction.

  When the special symbol variation display is started, the first to third decorative symbols DI1 to DI3 are variably displayed. For example, when a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the change display of the special symbol, as shown in (1) of FIG. 7, a pink symbol on which, for example, the number “1” is drawn is temporarily stopped as the first decorative symbol DI1. To do. Further, when a predetermined time elapses, as shown in (2) of FIG. 7, a blue symbol on which, for example, the number “6” is drawn is temporarily stopped as the second decorative symbol DI2. When a predetermined time has passed, after the blue symbol on which the numeral “2” is drawn, for example, temporarily stops as the third decorative symbol DI3, three decorative symbols DI1 to DI3 are displayed as shown in (3) of FIG. Stop completely. As a result, the current special symbol variation display ends, and the player is notified of the result of the first special symbol lottery. That is, when the decorative symbols DI are not aligned with the same number symbol (so-called losing eyes), it is notified that the result of the first special symbol lottery is losing. On the other hand, when the first to third decorative symbols DI1 to DI3 are arranged with the same numerical symbols (so-called hits) (not shown), it is notified that the result of the first special symbol lottery is a big hit. Then, as shown in (4) of FIG. 7, thereafter, the variation display of the decorative symbol DI is similarly started in accordance with the variation display of the next special symbol. The temporary stop means that the player can recognize that the variation of the decorative symbol DI has stopped, and is not completely stopped. For example, in a state in which the decoration symbol DI slightly fluctuates up and down. Is displayed. This indicates that the special symbol is still changing. Further, in FIG. 7 (and subsequent drawings), the decorative symbols DI that are changing or temporarily stopped are displayed with dotted lines, and the decorative symbols DI that are completely stopped (mainly stopped) are displayed with solid lines.

  In addition, as will be described in detail later, in the present embodiment, when the decorative symbol DI is a losing eye, the losing eye becomes a specific losing eye pattern (for example, the same color pattern as pink), so that the next change causes a zone effect. Transition (enter the zone). That is, in the present embodiment, the stop display mode when the decorative symbol DI is completely stopped functions as a winning notification effect for notifying the lottery result of the special symbol lottery and suggests that the zone effect is performed from the next change. It also functions as a zone entry suggestion effect.

[Overview of hold display in this embodiment]
Next, an outline of the hold display in the present embodiment will be described. As shown in (1) of FIG. 7, the hold image RI (RI0 to RI4) is displayed on the image display unit 21. The reserved image RI is an image for indicating the number of the first special symbol lottery held by the player. In addition, the image display unit 21 is provided with a plurality of stages ST (ST0 to ST4) that are positions where the reserved images RI are displayed. In the example shown in (1) of FIG. 7, the first special symbol is positioned above the plurality of stages ST (ST0 to ST4) arranged in the left and right direction in the lower area of the display screen of the image display unit 21. Reservation images RI (RI0 to RI4) corresponding to the number of times the lottery is suspended are displayed. In the present embodiment, the reserved image RI is displayed until the variation of the special symbol in the first special symbol lottery is completed. That is, in addition to the number of reserved images RI1 to RI4 corresponding to the number of times that the first special symbol lottery is reserved, the reserved image RI0 (hereinafter also referred to as the 0th reserved image RI0) that is currently being displayed in a variable manner. It is displayed on the image display unit 21.

  As an example, as shown in (1) of FIG. 7, the stage ST0 arranged at one end (right end) of a plurality of stages ST arranged in line has a special symbol in the first special symbol lottery at the present time. The 0th reserved image RI0 that is changing is displayed. In addition, the stage ST1 arranged next to the stage ST0 (next to the left) holds the first special symbol lottery, and then holds the first special symbol lottery (hereinafter, A reserved image RI1 (hereinafter also referred to as a first reserved image RI1) corresponding to the first reserved image is displayed. In addition, at stage ST2 arranged next to stage ST1 (next to the left), the first special symbol lottery is currently reserved, and the first special symbol lottery is scheduled to be performed next to the first hold. A hold image RI2 (hereinafter also referred to as a second hold image RI2) corresponding to the hold (hereinafter referred to as a second hold) is displayed. In addition, at stage ST3 arranged next to stage ST2 (left adjacent), the first special symbol lottery is currently reserved, and the first special symbol lottery is scheduled to be performed next to the second hold. A hold image RI3 (hereinafter also referred to as a third hold image RI3) corresponding to the hold (hereinafter referred to as a third hold) is displayed. In addition, at stage ST4 arranged next to stage ST3 (next to the left), the first special symbol lottery is currently held, and the first special symbol lottery is scheduled to be performed next to the third hold. A hold image RI4 (hereinafter also referred to as a fourth hold image RI4) corresponding to the hold (hereinafter referred to as a fourth hold) is displayed. When the maximum number of times that the first special symbol lottery can be held is four, the stage ST4 on which the fourth reserved image RI4 is displayed is arranged at the other end (left end) of the plurality of stages arranged in a row. Will be.

  The hold images RI respectively displayed on the plurality of stages ST are sequentially changed in display position (ie, stage ST) every time the first special symbol lottery is completed. Specifically, as shown in (3) of FIG. 7, when the current special symbol fluctuation display ends (when the decoration symbol DI fluctuation display stops completely), as shown in (4) of FIG. The reserved image RI0 displayed on the stage ST0 and corresponding to the current special symbol fluctuation display disappears from the display screen by moving out of the display screen or disappearing from the stage ST0. Then, the reserved image RI1 displayed on the stage ST1 moves from the stage ST1 to the stage ST0. Similarly, the reserved images RI2 to RI4 displayed on the stages ST2 to ST4 move from the stages ST2 to ST4 to the stages ST1 to ST3, respectively. In this way, the hold image RI sequentially moves on the stage ST every time the hold of the first special symbol lottery is digested.

  By the way, as will be apparent from the description below, in the present embodiment, the lottery result for the first special symbol lottery is sent from the main control unit 100 to the effect control unit before the symbol variation in the first special symbol lottery is started. 400 is notified. That is, for example, when the third hold occurs before the third reserved image RI3 moves to the stage ST0 and the change of the special symbol in the first special symbol lottery is started, for example, The lottery result of 1 special symbol lottery is revealed. Therefore, for example, it is possible to make the player expect in advance that there is a hold with a relatively high expectation degree to win in the first special symbol lottery. In addition, the said expectation degree shows that the probability with which the 1st special symbol lottery on hold is won is high, and does not necessarily indicate that the first special symbol lottery is won.

[Overview of pseudo-continuous production using decorative symbols in this embodiment]
Next, with reference to FIG. 8, a description will be given of the pseudo-continuous effect using the variation display of the decorative design DI in the present embodiment. FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining the outline of the pseudo-continuous effect. As shown in (1) of FIG. 8, when the pseudo-continuous effect is executed in the variable display corresponding to the 0th reserved image RI0, when a predetermined time elapses after the variable symbol variable display is started, For example, a pink symbol on which a numeral “1” is drawn is temporarily stopped as one decorative symbol DI1. When a predetermined time further elapses, as shown in (2) of FIG. 8, a blue symbol on which, for example, the number “6” is drawn is temporarily stopped as the second decorative symbol DI2. When a predetermined time further elapses, as shown in (3) of FIG. 8, a gold symbol on which, for example, the number “7” is drawn is temporarily stopped as the third decorative symbol DI3. Here, in this embodiment, when the gold symbol is temporarily stopped as the third decorative symbol DI3, as shown in (4) of FIG. 8, in the same variation display (variation display corresponding to the zeroth reserved image RI0), The variable display of the first to third decorative symbols DI3 is started again. As described above, the pseudo-continuous effect in the present embodiment means that, in the same variation display, the decorative symbol DI is set on the condition that a specific symbol (gold symbol in the present embodiment) is temporarily stopped as the third decorative symbol DI3. This is an effect that is repeatedly displayed in a variable manner and suggests that the greater the number of times the decorative symbol DI is displayed in a variable manner, the higher the degree of expectation for winning the special symbol lottery in the variable display.

[Outline of zone production in this embodiment]
Next, the outline of the zone effect in this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining the outline of the zone effect. First, the background image BI shown in FIG. 9 will be described. The background image BI is an image that is displayed on the background of the above-described decorative design DI and the reserved image RI. In the present embodiment, the background image BI also functions as an image that is displayed to perform various zone effects. Here, the zone effect is a period in which the background image BI indicating the zone is displayed, that there is a hold with a relatively high expectation degree to win the special symbol lottery, or a variation display of the current special symbol It is an effect that suggests that the degree of expectation that the holding in the middle wins the special symbol lottery is relatively high, and a plurality of zone effects are provided according to the level of expectation. The zone effect will be specifically described below.

  In the present embodiment, for example, when the third hold occurs, the lottery result of the first special symbol lottery of the third hold is found, and the result is notified from the main control unit 100 to the effect control unit 400. To do. In this case, the production control unit 400 controls the production to be executed based on the lottery result determined in advance. Hereinafter, the above-described prior determination is referred to as prefetching, the lottery result based on this prefetching is referred to as a prefetching result, and an effect based on the prefetching result may be referred to as a prefetching effect. Further, in FIG. 9 (and subsequent drawings), the third reserved image RI3 indicating the hold (third hold) determined to execute the pre-reading effect is painted black in order to distinguish it from the hold images indicating other holds. it's shown.

  As shown in (1) of FIG. 9, when a variation display of a special symbol for the 0th reserved image RI0 (hereinafter, simply referred to as a variation display) is being executed, a game ball is placed in the first start opening 25a. It is assumed that the third hold is generated after entering the ball and the third hold image RI3 is displayed on the stage ST3. At this time, the effect control unit 400 is notified in advance of the result of the first special symbol lottery for the third hold from the main control unit 100, and controls the prefetch effect based on the prefetch result. Specifically, the effect control unit 400 controls an effect that suggests that the degree of expectation of winning the first special symbol lottery with the third hold is relatively high based on the prefetching result.

  At this time, in the variable display for the 0th reserved image RI0 that is already executed when the third hold determined to execute the pre-reading effect occurs, the effect is not changed and the next variable display (first An effect based on the pre-reading result is executed from the fluctuation display for the hold). That is, as shown in (2) of FIG. 9, the effect in the variable display (the variable display with respect to the 0th reserved image RI0) at the time when it is determined to execute the pre-reading effect is continued as it is. It is stopped and displayed with a loss pattern of “1”, “4”, and “6”.

  In the variable display for the first hold, which is the next variable display, an effect based on the prefetch result is executed. Specifically, as shown in (3) of FIG. 9, after the decorative symbol DI is displayed in a variable manner, as shown in (4) of FIG. 9, for example, the number “1” is set as the first decorative symbol DI1. The drawn pink design temporarily stops, the pink design in which the numeral “9” is drawn as the second decorative design DI2, for example, temporarily stops, and the pink in which the number “1” is drawn in the third decorative design DI3, for example. After the symbol temporarily stops, the three decorative symbols DI1 to DI3 are completely stopped. That is, as an effect based on the prefetching result for the third hold, first, in the variable display after prefetching (for the first hold), the decorative design DI does not have the same number design (that is, it is a losing eye), but the color The display is stopped in such a manner that the symbols are aligned in pink. The variation effect of the decorative symbol DI informs that the result of the first special symbol lottery for the first hold is a loss and, as will be apparent later, suggests that the zone effect is performed from the next variation. The

  After the above-described losing effect is achieved, the background image BI is switched to the background image indicating the zone A in the next change (change display for the second hold) as shown in (5) of FIG. Effect (zone effect) is executed. This suggests that there is a hold (specifically, a third hold) with a relatively high degree of expectation for winning the first special symbol lottery after the change (change display for the second hold). Thereafter, the zone effect is continued until the variable display for the third hold determined to execute the pre-reading effect, and when the variable display for the third hold is ended, the zone effect is also ended.

  As described above, although the decorative symbol DI is a losing eye, the zone effect is executed in the variable display immediately after the color symbols are stopped and displayed together with the pink symbols. From this, as shown in (4) of FIG. 9, it can be understood that the stop symbols of the decorative symbols DI are aligned with pink symbols, which triggers the transition from the next change to the zone effect (rushes into the zone). That is, the effect for the first hold after the pre-reading suggests that the zone effect is performed from the next change by causing the decorative symbol DI to be stopped and displayed with a specific losing eye pattern (the pink same color symbol in the example of FIG. 9). It functions as a zone entry suggestion effect. As will be apparent from the description below, in this embodiment, a plurality of zone effects are provided, and the entry triggers for each zone effect are associated with a specific losing eye pattern, and the decorative design DI is specified. It is suggested that the zone effect associated with the losing eye pattern is performed from the next change by stopping and displaying with the losing eye pattern.

  In the present embodiment, the zone effect may be executed from a change display immediately after the change display in which the zone entry suggestion effect is executed as described above, or the zone entry suggestion effect is not executed. The zone effect may be started from the start of a certain variable display. For this reason, the decorative symbol DI is stopped and displayed in a specific losing eye pattern, thereby instructing the player to perform a highly promising zone effect to win the first special symbol lottery from the next variation display (ie, The player can expect to win the first special symbol lottery), and even if the decorative symbol DI is not stopped and displayed in a specific losing eye pattern, suddenly the zone effect is executed, so that the player has an unexpected sense of expectation. Can be given.

[Correspondence between types of zone effects and losing eye patterns that trigger zone entry]
Next, the correspondence between the type of zone effect and a specific losing eye pattern that triggers entry into the zone effect will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a correspondence between a specific losing eye pattern and a zone effect executed in a variable display immediately after the decorative symbol DI is stopped and displayed with the losing eye pattern. As shown in (1) of FIG. 10, when the three decorative symbols DI are arranged in pink in a certain variation display (in the example of FIG. 10, the variation display for the first hold), the next variation display ( In the example of FIG. 10, the zone effect indicating the zone A is executed from the change display for the second hold). Further, as shown in (2) of FIG. 10, when the three decorative symbols DI are arranged in blue in a certain variation display, the zone effect indicating the zone B is executed from the next variation display. Further, as shown in (3) of FIG. 10, when the color design of the three decorative designs DI becomes a red design on the left and right and a gold design on the center in a certain variation display, the zone indicating the zone C from the next variation display. Production is performed. That is, in a certain variation display, when the losing eye pattern of the decorative design DI becomes a specific color design pattern and the decorative design DI is stopped and displayed, the zone effect corresponding to the color design pattern is displayed from the next variation display. Is executed. In addition, the plurality of zone effects suggest different degrees of expectation as the degree of expectation for winning the first special symbol lottery. For example, the expectation degree of zone C is the highest, and then the expectation degree becomes lower in the order of zone B and zone A.

  From the above, since the entry triggers to a plurality of zone effects suggesting different degrees of expectation are associated with specific losing eye patterns, depending on which losing eye pattern the decorative design DI is stopped and displayed. Then, the expectation level of the zone performance to be performed thereafter will be different. For this reason, the player can enjoy the game with an interest different from whether or not the result of the first special symbol lottery, which pattern is the specific lose eye pattern, is a big hit.

[Outline of reach production in this embodiment]
Next, the outline of the reach effect in the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining the outline of the reach effect. As shown in (1) of FIG. 11, when the special symbol variation display is started, the first to third decorative symbols DI1 to DI3 are varied and displayed. First, for example, the number “1” is displayed as the first decorative symbol DI1. The drawn symbol is temporarily stopped, and then the symbol on which the same number “1” as the first decorative symbol DI1 is drawn is temporarily stopped as the second decorative symbol DI2. When the first and second decorative symbols DI1 and DI2 are temporarily stopped, when the numerical symbols of both decorative symbols are aligned (so-called reach state), the reach state is notified (FIG. 11). (See (2)), a reach effect is performed in which the decorative design DI3 is changed for a long time and a big hit is expected during that time. As the reach effect, for example, as shown in (3) of FIG. 11, a hero character appears, a battle effect that fights the enemy character is executed, and an effect that becomes a big hit by defeating (winning) the enemy character is executed. Is done. When the reach effect is being executed, the decorative design DI is reduced and displayed on the lower right of the image display unit 21 (see (3) in FIG. 11). Note that the reach effect is not limited to the battle effect described above, and may be an effect that expects another big hit, and the decorative symbol DI may not be displayed during the reach effect.

  After the above-mentioned reach effect indicates that it is a big hit or not, the three decorative symbols DI1 to DI3 are completely stopped, the result of the special symbol lottery is confirmed and notified to the player, and the current special symbol change display Ends. That is, when the big win is suggested by the reach effect (the battle is won), the same number symbol “1” as the hit is stopped and displayed as the first to third decorative symbols DI1 to DI3 (( 4))) When the lose effect is suggested by the reach effect (defeated by the battle), the third decorative pattern DI3 is stopped and displayed with a numerical pattern different from the first decorative pattern DI1 and the second decorative pattern DI2. (Not shown).

[Outline of notice effect in this embodiment]
Next, the notice effect in this embodiment is demonstrated using FIG. FIG. 12 is a diagram for explaining the outline of the notice effect in the present embodiment. In the present embodiment, the notice effect is performed in a manner that suggests a plurality of effects that may be performed thereafter (hereinafter referred to as development effects). In this embodiment, the above-described winning notification effect, zone entry suggestion effect, pseudo-continuous effect, reach effect, and zone effect are executed as the development target effect (see (2) to (6) in FIG. 12). . Specifically, as shown in (1) of FIG. 12, for example, the notice effect is at least a part of the effect form of the development effect to be developed (warped) next in a virtual space imitating a warp space. It is executed by moving and displaying the suggested image. Therefore, the player can imagine a plurality of development destinations suggested by the notice effect, and can pay attention to the notice effect while being interested in which development destination.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the same notice effect is executed regardless of which of the aforementioned development effects, but the end timing (that is, the length of the notice effect) depends on the development effect. It is characterized by being different. In the following, an effect (effect with notice) when this characteristic notice effect is executed will be specifically described using a plurality of examples (first effect with notice to third effect with notice).

[First notice with notice]
Before explaining the first example with notice, which is the first example, for comparison, an example of the effect when the notice effect is not executed (hereinafter referred to as the first effect without notice) will be described with reference to FIG. To do. FIG. 13 shows a state in which the first effect without notice is executed in a certain variable display.

  In the first presentation without notice, first, as shown in (1) of FIG. 13, the first pseudo-continuous presentation (see FIG. 8) is performed in a certain fluctuation display (fluctuation display corresponding to the 0th reserved image RI0). Executed. Next, as shown in (2) of FIG. 13, the second pseudo-continuous effect is executed. Note that this pseudo-continuous effect is executed in such a manner that, for example, the number of pseudo-continuous effects can be known by changing the background color or displaying the number of times in a specific number. Next, as shown in (3) of FIG. 13, the same numerical symbol “1” is temporarily stopped as the first decorative symbol DI1 and the second decorative symbol DI2. Thereby, as shown in (4) of FIG. 13, it is alert | reported that it is a reach state, and reach effect is performed (refer FIG. 11). Then, as shown in FIG. 13 (5), the three decorative symbols DI1 to DI3 are completely stopped, and the result of the special symbol lottery (for example, the big hit) is confirmed and notified to the player (that is, the winning notification effect is provided). Executed), the current special symbol variation display ends.

  By the way, the effect in a certain variable display is performed based on the effect pattern predetermined according to the change time of the special symbol. Specifically, at which timing (time) each of the effects shown in (1) to (5) of FIG. 13 is executed is set in advance as an effect pattern, and the effect based on the effect pattern is executed. As a result, the first effect without notice is executed.

  Next, the first effect with notice will be described with reference to FIG. (1) in FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a state of developing from the notice effect to the pseudo-continuous effect, and (2) in FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a state of developing from the notice effect to the reach effect. (3) is a figure which shows a mode that it develops from a notice effect to a winning notification effect. Further, the right diagrams of (1) to (3) in FIG. 14 are diagrams in which the time at which the notice effect (shaded portion) is executed is mapped to the change time of the first effect without notice. The change time and the change time of the first effect without notice are the same. In the first effect with a notice, the notice effect is executed until a certain timing (time) in the first effect without a notice. As shown in (1) to (3) of FIG. 14, as the first effect with a notice, an effect that develops into a pseudo-continuous effect, an effect that develops into a reach effect, and an effect that develops into a winning notification effect are prepared. Has been. This will be specifically described below.

  As shown in (1) of FIG. 14, in the first effect with a notice that develops into a pseudo-continuous effect, the notice effect is executed until the timing when the first pseudo-continuous effect is finished when the first effect without notice is executed. Is done. That is, the effect pattern of the first effect with a notice that develops into a pseudo-continuous effect is set as an effect pattern in which the notice effect is executed in place of the first pseudo-continuous effect in the first effect without notice. For this reason, when the effect based on this effect pattern is executed, the second pseudo-continuous effect is started after the notice effect is finished (development into the second pseudo-continuous effect).

  As shown in (2) of FIG. 14, in the first effect with a notice that develops into a reach effect, the notice effect is executed until the timing when the second pseudo-continuous effect when the first effect without notice is executed ends. The That is, the effect pattern of the first effect with a notice that develops into the reach effect is set as an effect pattern in which the notice effect is executed instead of the first and second pseudo-continuous effects in the first effect without the notice. For this reason, when the effect based on this effect pattern is executed, the reach effect is started after the notice effect ends (development to reach effect).

  As shown in (3) of FIG. 14, in the first effect with a notice that develops to the winning notification effect, the notice effect is executed until the reach effect ends when the first effect without notice is executed. That is, the effect pattern of the first effect with a notice that develops to the winning notification effect is set as an effect pattern in which the notice effect is executed in place of the first and second pseudo-continuous effects and the reach effect in the first effect without the notice. ing. For this reason, when the effect based on this effect pattern is executed, the winning notification effect is started (develops to the winning notification effect) after the end of the notice effect.

  As described above, a plurality of effect patterns having different timings at which the notice effect ends are set as the effect patterns of the first effect with the notice. And, the timing of completion of the notice effect is different, and the development effect developed thereafter is also different. Therefore, since the end timing is not known when the notice effect is started, the player does not know which development effect the player will develop. For this reason, even if a player plays a game for a long time, he / she can continue to be interested in which effect will be developed each time a notice effect is executed.

[Second production with notice]
In the second effect with a notice that is the second example, a notice effect based on prefetching is executed. Before describing the second effect with a notice, an example of an effect based on prefetching when the notice effect is not executed (hereinafter referred to as a second effect without a notice) will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 15 shows a state in which it is determined that the prefetch effect is executed when the third hold occurs, and the second effect without notice based on the prefetch is executed in the variable display corresponding to the first hold.

  In the second effect without notice, first, as shown in (1) of FIG. 15, the first pseudo-continuous effect (see FIG. 8) is executed in the variable display corresponding to the first hold. Next, as shown in (2) of FIG. 15, the second pseudo-continuous effect is executed. Note that this pseudo-continuous effect is executed in such a manner that, for example, the number of pseudo-continuous effects can be known by changing the background color or displaying the number of times in a specific number. Next, as shown in (3) of FIG. 15, the same numerical symbol “1” is temporarily stopped as the first decorative symbol DI1 and the second decorative symbol DI2. Thereby, as shown in (4) of FIG. 15, it is alert | reported that it is a reach state, and reach effect is performed (refer FIG. 11). Then, as shown in FIG. 15 (5), the three decorative symbols DI1 to DI3 are completely stopped, the result of the special symbol lottery is confirmed and notified to the player, and the current special symbol variation display ends. Here, the three decorative symbols DI are based on pre-reading to indicate that the zone effect will be performed from the next variation, so that a specific losing eye pattern ("1", "9", "1" pink same color patterns) (In other words, the zone entry suggestion effect is executed). Thereafter, as shown in (6) of FIG. 15, the zone effect is executed in the next variation display (variation display for the second hold).

  By the way, the effect in one change performed based on prefetching is also executed based on the effect pattern predetermined according to the change time of the special symbol. Specifically, at which timing (time) each effect in the one variation (variation with respect to the first hold) shown in (1) to (5) of FIG. And the 2nd production without a notice is performed by performing the production based on the production pattern concerned.

  Next, the second effect with notice will be described with reference to FIG. (1) in FIG. 16 is a diagram showing a state of developing from the notice effect to the pseudo-continuous effect, and (2) in FIG. 16 is a diagram showing a state of developing from the notice effect to the reach effect. (3) is a figure which shows a mode that it develops from a notice effect to a zone entry suggestion effect. Also, the right diagrams of (1) to (3) in FIG. 16 are diagrams in which the time when the notice effect (shaded portion) is executed is mapped to the change time of the second effect without notice. The change time and the change time of the second effect without notice are the same. In the second effect with a notice, the notice effect is executed until a certain timing (time) in the second effect without a notice. Then, as shown in (1) to (3) of FIG. 16, the second effect with a notice includes an effect that develops into a pseudo-continuous effect, an effect that develops into a reach effect, and an effect that develops into a zone entry suggestion effect. It is prepared. This will be specifically described below.

  As shown in (1) of FIG. 16, in the second effect with a notice that develops into a pseudo-continuous effect, the notice effect is executed until the timing at which the first pseudo-continuous effect when the second effect without notice is executed ends. Is done. That is, the effect pattern of the second effect with a notice that develops into a pseudo-continuous effect is set as an effect pattern in which the notice effect is executed instead of the first pseudo-continuous effect in the second effect without notice. For this reason, when the effect based on this effect pattern is executed based on the prefetching, the second pseudo-continuous effect is started after the notice effect is ended (development to the second pseudo-continuous effect).

  As shown in (2) of FIG. 16, in the second effect with a notice that develops into a reach effect, the notice effect is executed until the timing when the second pseudo-continuous effect when the second effect without notice is executed ends. The That is, the effect pattern of the second effect with a notice that develops as a reach effect is set as an effect pattern in which the notice effect is executed instead of the first and second pseudo-continuous effects in the second effect without notice. For this reason, when an effect based on this effect pattern is executed based on the prefetching, a reach effect is started after the notice effect ends (development into a reach effect).

  As shown in (3) of FIG. 16, in the second effect with a notice that develops into a zone entry suggestion effect, the notice effect is executed until the timing when the reach effect when the second effect without notice is executed ends. That is, the effect pattern of the second effect with a notice that develops into the zone entry suggestive effect is set as an effect pattern in which the notice effect is executed instead of the first and second pseudo-continuous effects and the reach effect in the second effect without the notice. Has been. For this reason, when an effect based on this effect pattern is executed based on the prefetching, the zone entry suggestion effect is started after the notice effect ends (development into a zone entry suggestion effect).

  As described above, a plurality of effect patterns having different timings at which the notice effect ends are set as the effect patterns of the second effect with a notice based on prefetching. And, the timing of completion of the notice effect is different, and the development effect developed thereafter is also different. Therefore, since the end timing is not known when the notice effect is started, the player does not know which development effect the player will develop. Further, at the time when the notice effect is started, it is not known whether the effect including the notice effect is an effect based on prefetching. For this reason, even if a player plays a game for a long time, he / she can continue to be interested in which effect will be developed each time a notice effect is executed.

[3rd production with notice]
In the third effect with notice, which is the third example, the notice effect based on prefetching is executed in the same manner as the second effect with notice. Before describing the third effect with a notice, an example of an effect based on prefetching when the notice effect is not executed (hereinafter referred to as a third effect without a notice) will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 17 shows a state in which it is determined that the prefetch effect is executed when the third hold occurs, and the third effect without notice based on the prefetch is executed in the variable display corresponding to the third hold.

  In the third effect without notice, as shown in (1) of FIG. 17, the zone effect is executed in the variable display corresponding to the third hold. Specifically, in the change display immediately before the change display corresponding to the third hold for which the third effect without notice is executed (the change display corresponding to the second hold), the zone entry suggestion effect is not executed. The zone effect is started from the start of the variable display corresponding to the third hold. Next, as shown in (2) of FIG. 17, the same numerical symbol “1” as the first decorative symbol DI1 and the second decorative symbol DI2 is temporarily stopped. Thereby, as shown in (3) of FIG. 17, it is alert | reported that it is a reach state, and reach effect is performed (refer FIG. 11). Then, as shown in (4) of FIG. 17, the three decorative symbols DI1 to DI3 are completely stopped, and the result of the special symbol lottery (for example, big hit) is confirmed and notified to the player (that is, the winning notification effect is provided). Executed), the current special symbol variation display ends.

  By the way, the effect in one change performed based on prefetching is also executed based on the effect pattern predetermined according to the change time of the special symbol. Specifically, it is set in advance as an effect pattern which timing (time) each effect in the one change shown in (1) to (4) in FIG. The third effect without notice is executed by executing the effect based on the effect pattern.

  Next, the third effect with notice will be described with reference to FIG. (1) of FIG. 18 is a diagram showing a state of developing from the notice effect to the zone effect, and (2) of FIG. 18 is a diagram showing a state of developing from the notice effect to the reach effect. Further, the right diagrams of (1) and (2) in FIG. 18 are diagrams in which the time when the notice effect (shaded portion) is executed is mapped to the change time of the third effect without notice. The change time and the change time of the third effect without notice are the same. In the third effect with a notice, the notice effect is executed until a certain timing (time) in the third effect without a notice. Then, as shown in (1) and (2) of FIG. 18, as the third effect with a notice, an effect that develops into a zone effect and an effect that develops into a reach effect are prepared. This will be specifically described below.

  As shown in (1) of FIG. 18, in the third effect with a notice that develops into a zone effect, the notice effect is given until a certain timing within the period in which the zone effect is executed when the third effect without notice is executed. Executed. That is, the effect pattern of the third effect with a notice that develops into a zone effect is executed until a certain timing in the middle of the zone effect instead of the zone effect that is executed from the start of the effect in the third effect without notice. It is set as a production pattern. For this reason, when the effect based on this effect pattern is executed based on the prefetching, the zone effect is started (development into a zone effect) after the end of the notice effect.

  As shown in (2) of FIG. 18, in the third effect with a notice that develops into a reach effect, the notice effect is executed until the time when the zone effect ends when the third effect with a notice is executed. That is, the effect pattern of the third effect with a notice that develops into the reach effect is set as an effect pattern in which the notice effect is executed instead of the zone effect in the third effect without the notice. For this reason, when an effect based on this effect pattern is executed based on the prefetching, a reach effect is started after the notice effect ends (development into a reach effect).

  As described above, a plurality of effect patterns having different timings at which the notice effect ends are set as the effect patterns of the third effect with a notice based on prefetching. And, the timing of completion of the notice effect is different, and the development effect developed thereafter is also different. In addition, since the zone effect changes the background image BI to a background image indicating a zone and suggests that the degree of expectation for winning the special symbol lottery is relatively high, Even if it is started, it is possible to produce an effect without any sense of incongruity. For this reason, it is possible to develop the zone effect after the notice effect by appropriately setting the end timing of the notice effect within the period in which the zone effect is executed when the notice effect is not executed. Thus, at the time when the notice effect is started, the end timing is not known, so the player does not know which development effect the player will develop. Further, at the time when the notice effect is started, it is not known whether the effect including the notice effect is an effect based on prefetching. For this reason, even if a player plays a game for a long time, he / she can continue to be interested in which effect will be developed each time a notice effect is executed.

  In the above, for the sake of easy explanation, the effects when the notice effect is executed are classified and described as the first effect with notice to the third effect with notice. However, from the player's viewpoint, the notice effect is executed. In this case, it is not known whether the effect in the certain variable display is the first effect with notice to the third effect with notice, and which development effect among the effects with notice. That is, at the time when the notice effect is started, it is not known which effect shown in FIGS. 14, 16, and 18 (that is, at which timing the notice effect ends and which development effect is developed). For this reason, the player can continue to be interested in which effect will be developed each time the notice effect is executed even if the game is played for a long time. According to the notice effect in the present embodiment, the interest of the game Can be increased.

  Below, the process which the pachinko game machine 1 performs in order to implement | achieve control which performs the above-mentioned operation | movement is demonstrated.

[Main operation of main control unit]
FIG. 19 is a flowchart illustrating an example of timer interrupt processing performed by the main control unit 100. Hereinafter, timer interrupt processing performed in the main control unit 100 will be described with reference to FIG. The main control unit 100 repeatedly executes a series of processes shown in FIG. 19 at regular time intervals (for example, 4 milliseconds) during a normal operation except for special cases such as when the power is turned on or when the power is turned off. Note that the processing performed by the main control unit 100 described based on the flowcharts in FIG. 19 and the subsequent steps is executed based on a program stored in the ROM 102.

  First, in step S1, the CPU 101 of the main control unit 100 executes a random number update process for updating various random numbers such as a jackpot random number, a design random number, a reach random number, and a variation pattern random number. Here, the big hit random number is a random number for determining whether or not a special symbol lottery is won or lost (that is, performing a special symbol lottery). The symbol random number is a random number for determining the type of jackpot (probable big hit with a ball, probable big jack without a ball, normal big jack with a ball, normal big jack without a ball) when a special symbol lottery is won. The big hit random number and the design random number are used in the process of step S57 in FIG. The reach random number is a random number for determining whether or not a reach effect is performed when a special symbol lottery is lost. The variation pattern random number is a random number for determining the variation time of the special symbol. Here, the variation time of the special symbol is equal to the execution time of the decorative symbol variation effect performed during the variation of the special symbol. The reach random number and the fluctuation pattern random number are used in the process of step S58 of FIG. In the random number update process of step S1, the big hit random number, the design random number, the reach random number, the variation pattern random number, etc. are each added and updated by one. That is, it is counted up. Each lottery is performed in the start port switch (SW) process in step S2 and the gate switch (SW) process in step S3, and each random number is acquired. Then, a special symbol process in step S4 and a normal symbol in step S5 described later. Used in processing. Note that the counter that performs the processing of step S1 is typically a loop counter, and returns to 0 again after reaching the maximum value of the set random number (for example, 299 for the big hit random number).

  Next, in step S2, the CPU 101 monitors the state of the first start port switch 111a and the second start port switch 111b, and when one of the switches is turned on (the first start port switch 111a or the second start port switch 111b). When a game ball detection signal is output from the mouth switch 111b), a start opening switch that performs processing related to the number of holdings U1 of the first special symbol lottery, the number of holdings U2 of the second special symbol lottery, and processing for obtaining various random numbers. Execute the process. In step S2, the CPU 101 makes a prior determination using the acquired jackpot random number. Details of the start port switch process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Next, in step S3, the CPU 101 monitors the state of the gate switch 113, and when the gate switch 113 is turned on (when a game ball detection signal is output from the gate switch 113), the normal symbol lottery is suspended. It is determined whether or not the number is less than the upper limit value, and if it is determined that the number of holds is less than the upper limit value, a gate switch process for acquiring a random number used in the normal symbol process in step S5 described later is executed.

  Next, in step S4, the CPU 101 executes the first special symbol lottery or the second special symbol lottery, and after the special symbols are variably displayed on the first special symbol display 31a or the second special symbol display 31b, these are displayed. A special symbol process for displaying a stop symbol indicating the lottery result or transmitting various commands to the effect control unit 400 is executed. This special symbol process will be described later in detail with reference to FIG.

  Next, in step S5, the CPU 101 executes a normal symbol process for determining whether or not the random number acquired in the gate switch process in step S3 matches a predetermined hit random number. Then, the CPU 101 stops the normal symbol indicating the determination result after the normal symbol is variably displayed on the normal symbol display 33. Further, the CPU 101 sets the probability that the normal symbol displayed on the normal symbol display 33 will be a predetermined winning symbol (that is, the winning probability of the normal symbol lottery) is set to a low probability (for example, 1/10) in the normal state. In the short-time state, it is increased with a high probability (for example, 10/10).

  Next, in step S6, when it is determined that the special symbol lottery is won in the special symbol processing in step S4 (when a big hit is made), the CPU 101 controls the special prize opening / closing unit 115 to make the special prize opening 28 predetermined. Is performed, and a big prize opening process for transmitting various commands related to the so-called jackpot game effect to the effect control unit 400 is executed. By this process, a so-called jackpot game (special game) is progressed, and the player acquires a large amount of prize balls (in the case of a jackpot game with a ball). In addition, the CPU 101 executes a game state setting process for setting a gaming state at the end of the big hit game control such as the opening / closing control of the special prize opening 28 in the big prize opening process of step S6. Specifically, the CPU 101 has a low probability for a predetermined period (for example, a period until the special symbol lottery is executed 100 times) at the end of the normal big hit game with a ball and the normal big hit game without a ball. / After setting to the time-short state, it is set to the normal state, and at the end of the probability variation big hit game with a ball and the probability variable big hit game without a ball, it is set to a high accuracy / time-short state. In addition, the CPU 101 transmits a command indicating the set gaming state to the effect control unit 400. Thereby, the production control unit 400 can recognize the gaming state being set.

  Next, in step S7, the CPU 101 performs electric driving when the normal symbol displayed on the normal symbol display 33 by the normal symbol processing in step S5 is a predetermined winning symbol (that is, when the normal symbol lottery is won). An electric tulip process for operating the tulip 26 is executed. At that time, the CPU 101 controls the electric tulip 26 to be in an open state in an extremely short period (for example, 0.15 seconds once) in a normal state, and keeps the electric tulip 26 in a short period (for example, 1.8 seconds). (3 times) Control to open state. In addition, when the electric tulip 26 is controlled to be in an open state, a game ball can be won in the second start port 25b, and a game ball wins in the second start port 25b, so that the second special symbol lottery is performed. Will be.

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

  Next, in step S9, the CPU 101 sends various commands set in the RAM 103 and information necessary for the production in the special symbol processing in step S5, the big prize opening processing in step S6, the prize ball processing in step S8, etc. 400 or an output process of outputting to the payout control unit 300 is executed.

[Start-up switch processing]
FIG. 20 is an example of a detailed flowchart of the start port switch process in step S2 of FIG. Hereinafter, the start port switch process in step S2 of FIG. 19 will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, in step S21, the CPU 101 of the main control unit 100 receives a game ball in the first start port 25a based on the presence / absence of a detection signal from the first start port switch 111a, and the first start port switch 111a is turned on. It is determined whether or not. If the determination in step S21 is YES, the process proceeds to step S22. If this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S27.

  In step S <b> 22, the CPU 101 reads the upper limit value Umax <b> 1 (“4” in the present embodiment) of the first special symbol lottery hold number from the ROM 102, and the first special symbol lottery hold number U <b> 1 stored in the RAM 103 is the upper limit. It is determined whether or not the value is less than Umax1. If the determination in step S22 is YES, the process proceeds to step S23, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S27.

  In step S <b> 23, the CPU 101 updates the value of the holding number U <b> 1 stored in the RAM 103 to a value obtained by adding one. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S24.

  In step S24, the CPU 101 acquires a set of random numbers (big hit random number, symbol random number, reach random number, and variation pattern random number) used for the first special symbol lottery and the like, and sets each of the acquired random numbers (game information) One example) is stored in the RAM 103 in chronological order. Each time the value U1 of the first special symbol lottery holding number U1 is decremented by 1 in the process of step S56 of FIG. 21 described later, the set of random numbers stored in the RAM 103 is stored in order from the oldest stored time. One set is deleted. For this reason, for example, when the value of the holding number U1 of the first special symbol lottery is “3”, the last three random number sets acquired by the process of step S24 for the last three times are stored in the RAM 103 in time series order. Will be stored. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S25.

  In step S25, the CPU 101 performs a preliminary determination process. Specifically, the CPU 101 reads the jackpot random number acquired in the latest processing of step S24 and stored in the RAM 103 (that is, the jackpot random number by the first special symbol lottery stored most recently). Is determined in advance as to whether or not the result of the first special symbol lottery using the jackpot random number is a jackpot or a loss. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S26.

  In step S <b> 26, the CPU 101 sets a first hold number increase command for notifying that the hold number of the first special symbol lottery has increased by 1 in the RAM 103. Here, the first pending number increase command includes information (hereinafter referred to as “preliminary determination information”) indicating the result of the preliminary determination performed in the process of step S25. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S27.

  In step S27, the CPU 101 determines based on the presence / absence of a detection signal from the second start port switch 111b whether or not the game ball has won the second start port 25b and the second start port switch 111b is turned on. To do. If the determination in step S27 is YES, the process proceeds to step S28, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S3 (gate switch process) in FIG.

  In step S <b> 28, the CPU 101 reads the upper limit value Umax <b> 2 (second “4” in the present embodiment) of the second special symbol lottery from the ROM 102, and the second special symbol lottery pending number U <b> 2 stored in the RAM 103 is the upper limit. It is determined whether or not the value is less than Umax2. If the determination in step S28 is YES, the process proceeds to step S29, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S3 (gate switch process) in FIG.

  In step S <b> 29, the CPU 101 updates the value of the holding number U <b> 2 stored in the RAM 103 to a value obtained by adding one. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S30.

  In step S30, the CPU 101 acquires a set of random numbers (big hit random number, symbol random number, reach random number, and variation pattern random number) used for the second special symbol lottery and the like, and sets each acquired random number as a time series. They are stored in the RAM 103 in order. Each time the value of the second special symbol lottery holding number U2 is decremented by 1 in the process of step S54 of FIG. 21 described later, the random number set stored in the RAM 103 is stored in order from the oldest stored time. One set is deleted. For this reason, for example, when the value of the holding number U2 of the second special symbol lottery is “3”, the last three random number sets acquired by the process of step S30 for the last three times are stored in the RAM 103 in chronological order. Will be stored. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S31.

  In step S31, the CPU 101 performs a preliminary determination process. Specifically, the CPU 101 reads the jackpot random number acquired in the process of the latest step S30 and stored in the RAM 103 (that is, the jackpot random number stored in the most recently stored second special symbol lottery). Is determined in advance as to whether the result of the second special symbol lottery using the jackpot random number is a jackpot or a loss. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S32.

  In step S <b> 32, the CPU 101 sets, in the RAM 103, a second hold number increase command for notifying that the hold number of the second special symbol lottery has increased by one. Here, the second pending number increase command includes information (preliminary determination information) indicating the result of the preliminary determination performed in the process of step S31. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S3 (gate switch process) in FIG. The first hold number increase command set in step S26 and the second hold number increase command set in step S32 are transmitted to the effect control unit 400 by the output process in step S9 of FIG.

[Special symbol processing]
FIG. 21 is an example of a detailed flowchart of the special symbol process in step S4 of FIG. The special symbol process in step S4 of FIG. 19 will be described below using FIG.

  First, in step S51, the CPU 101 of the main control unit 100 determines whether or not the current state of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is a big hit game based on information stored in the RAM 103 (typically information by a flag). Determine whether. That is, it is determined whether or not the big hit game (special game) that is executed when the special symbol lottery is won. If the determination in step S51 is YES, the process proceeds to step S5 (normal symbol process) in FIG. 19, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S52.

  In step S <b> 52, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the special symbols on the first special symbol display 31 a or the second special symbol display 31 b are being displayed. If the determination in step S52 is YES, the process proceeds to step S61. If the determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S53.

  In step S53, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the holding number U2 stored in the RAM 103 is 1 or more (that is, whether or not the second special symbol lottery is held). If the determination in step S53 is YES, the process proceeds to step S54. If the determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S55.

  In step S54, the CPU 101 updates the hold number U2 stored in the RAM 103 to a value obtained by subtracting one. At that time, the CPU 101 reads out the oldest set stored in the RAM 103 from step 103 in FIG. 20 and deletes it from the RAM 103. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S57.

  On the other hand, in step S55, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the holding number U1 stored in the RAM 103 is 1 or more (that is, whether or not the first special symbol lottery is held). If the determination in step S55 is YES, the process proceeds to step S56. If this determination is NO, there is no special symbol lottery to be executed, so the process is step S5 in FIG. 19 (normal symbol processing). Move on.

  In step S56, the CPU 101 updates the hold count U1 stored in the RAM 103 to a value obtained by subtracting one. At that time, the CPU 101 reads out the oldest set stored in the RAM 103 from step S24 of FIG. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S57.

  The second special symbol lottery is executed in preference to the first special symbol lottery by the processes of steps S53 to S56 described above.

  In step S57, the CPU 101 executes a big hit determination process for determining whether the special symbol lottery is a big hit or a loss. Specifically, when the process of step S57 is executed subsequent to the process of step S54, the CPU 101 determines that the big hit random number read from the RAM 103 in the process of step S54 matches the big win winning value stored in the ROM 102. Whether the result of the second special symbol lottery is a big hit or a loss is determined based on whether or not to do so. On the other hand, when the process of step S57 is executed following the process of step S56, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the jackpot random number read from the RAM 103 by the process of step S56 matches the jackpot winning value stored in the ROM 102. Based on this, it is determined whether the result of the first special symbol lottery is a big hit or a loss. When the result of the special symbol lottery is determined to be lost, the CPU 101 sets a lost symbol indicating that the special symbol lottery has been lost in the RAM 103 as a special symbol stop symbol in the setting information. On the other hand, when the CPU 101 determines that the result of the special symbol lottery is a big hit, which of the predetermined values stored in the ROM 102 matches the symbol random number read from the RAM 103 together with the big hit random number used for this determination? Based on the above, the type of jackpot of this time (probable big hit with a given ball, probable big hit without a given ball, a normal big hit with a given ball, a normal big hit without a given ball) is determined. Then, the CPU 101 sets, in the RAM 103, information on the jackpot symbol representing the jackpot and the type of jackpot as information on the stop symbol of the special symbol in the setting information. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S58.

  In step S58, the CPU 101 executes a variation pattern selection process. Specifically, when the CPU 101 determines that the big hit is determined in the big hit determination process in step S57, the fluctuation pattern random number read from the RAM 103 together with the big hit random number used in the big hit determination process is a predetermined value (stored in the ROM 102). A variation pattern (a variation time of a special symbol: an execution time of a decorative symbol variation effect) is determined based on which one of the predetermined values for determining a variation pattern when a big hit occurs. In this embodiment, as an example, when it is determined that the game is a big hit, a reach effect is always performed.

  On the other hand, if the CPU 101 determines that a loss has occurred in the jackpot determination process in step S57, the reach random number read from the RAM 103 together with the jackpot random number used in the jackpot determination process is a predetermined value (reach at the time of the loss) stored in the ROM 102. It is determined whether or not the reach effect is to be executed based on which one of the predetermined values for execution determination matches. If the CPU 101 determines to execute the reach effect, the fluctuation pattern random number read from the RAM 103 together with the jackpot random number used in the current jackpot determination process is stored in the ROM 102 (the reach effect is executed when lost). The variation pattern (variation time) is determined based on which one of the predetermined values for determining the variation pattern in the case of matching. On the other hand, when the CPU 101 determines not to execute the reach effect, the random pattern read from the RAM 103 together with the jackpot random number used in the current jackpot determination process is stored in the ROM 102 with a predetermined value (the reach effect is generated when lost). The fluctuation pattern (fluctuation time) is determined based on which one of the predetermined values (the predetermined value for determining the fluctuation pattern when not executed) matches, and the number of holdings U1 and U2 stored in the RAM 103.

  Information on the variation pattern determined as described above and information indicating whether or not to execute reach production are set in the RAM 103 as setting information. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S59.

  In step S59, the CPU 101 generates a variation effect start command including the setting information set by the big hit determination process of step S57 and the setting information set by the variation pattern selection process of step S58, and sets the command in the RAM 103. Here, the change effect start command is a command for instructing the effect control unit 400 to start the decorative symbol change effect by the image display unit 21 and the speaker 55 or the like, and the background image BI to be displayed on the image display unit 21. . The setting information included in the variation effect start command also includes information indicating which one of the first special symbol lottery and the second special symbol lottery has been executed. This variation effect start command is transmitted to the effect control unit 400 by the output process in step S9 of FIG. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S60.

  In step S60, the CPU 101 changes the special symbol by the first special symbol display 31a or the second special symbol display 31b based on the setting information included in the variable effect start command set in the process of step S59. Start displaying. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S61.

  In step S61, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the special symbol variation time indicated by the variation pattern set in the variation pattern selection process in step S58 has elapsed since the start of the special symbol variation display in step S60. If the determination in step S61 is yes, the process proceeds to step S62. If the determination is no, the process proceeds to step S5 (normal symbol process) in FIG.

  In step S <b> 62, the CPU 101 sets a variation effect stop command instructing the end of the decorative symbol variation effect by the image display unit 21 or the like in the RAM 103. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S63. Note that the change effect stop command set in step S62 is transmitted to the effect control unit 400 by the output process in step S9 of FIG.

  In step S63, the CPU 101 ends the variation display of the special symbol by the first special symbol display 31a or the second special symbol display 31b started in the process of step S60, and displays the stop symbol. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S64.

  In step S64, the CPU 101 executes a stop process. Specifically, if the CPU 101 determines that the big hit is determined in step S57, the information stored in the RAM 103 (typically, information based on a flag) is changed to one indicating that the big hit game is being played. Then, a command for instructing the start of the big hit game effect is set in the RAM 103. This command is transmitted to the effect control unit 400 by the output process in step S9 of FIG. 19, and the big hit game effect is started. Thereafter, the processing proceeds to step S5 (normal symbol processing) in FIG. Note that at the time when the big hit game is ended by the big winning opening process of step S6 in FIG. 19, the information indicating that the big hit game is being stored in the RAM 103 is returned by the CPU 101 to what is not in the big hit game, A command for instructing the end of the jackpot game effect is transmitted to the effect control unit 400 by the CPU 101, and the jackpot game effect is ended.

[Production control processing by production control unit]
FIG. 22 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the effect control process performed by the effect control unit 400. Below, with reference to FIG. 22, the effect control process performed by the effect control part 400 is demonstrated. The effect control unit 400 repeatedly executes a series of processes shown in FIG. 22 at regular time intervals (for example, 4 milliseconds) in a normal operation excluding special cases such as when the power is turned on and when the power is turned off. Note that the processing performed by the effect control unit 400 described based on the flowchart of FIG. 22 is executed based on a program stored in the ROM 402. Moreover, in the following description, the description about the big hit game effect etc. which is not directly related to the feature of this embodiment is omitted.

  First, in step S101 of FIG. 22, the CPU 401 of the effect control unit 400 determines whether or not a hold increase command (first hold number increase command or second hold number increase command) has been received from the main control unit 100 ( (See steps S26 and S32 in FIG. 20). If the determination in step S101 is yes, the process proceeds to step S102. If the determination is no, the process proceeds to step S107.

  In step S102, the CPU 401 executes a hold number addition process. Specifically, when the CPU 401 receives the first hold number increase command, the CPU 401 adds 1 to the hold number of the first special symbol lottery stored in the RAM 403, and when it receives the second hold number increase command, the RAM 403 1 is added to the number of reserves for the second special symbol lottery stored in. Further, the CPU 401 extracts pre-determination information included in the hold increase command and stores it in the RAM 403 for each type of hold increase command (first hold increase command or second hold increase command). Hereinafter, the prior determination information for the nth hold (n is 1 to 4) of the special symbol lottery is referred to as nth prior determination information. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S103.

  In step S103, the CPU 401 executes a hold display process. Specifically, when the CPU 401 receives the first hold number increase command, the CPU 401 instructs the image sound control unit 500 to increase the hold image indicating the hold number of the first special symbol lottery in the image display unit 21 by one. . Similarly, when the CPU 401 receives the second hold number increase command, the CPU 401 instructs the image sound control unit 500 to increase the hold image indicating the hold number of the second special symbol lottery on the image display unit 21 by one. Note that, as described above, this pending increase command includes advance determination information. In addition, in the pre-judgment information, information indicating the result of the jackpot lottery (information indicating either the jackpot or the loss), the information indicating the type of the jackpot if it is a jackpot, and the effect with reach in the case of a loss Information indicating whether or not to perform an effect without reach, information indicating a variation pattern of special symbols, and the like. Therefore, in step S103, the CPU 401 may change the mode of the hold display so as to suggest the expected degree of winning for the special symbol lottery based on the prior determination information, for example. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S104.

  In step S <b> 104, the CPU 401 determines whether to execute a prefetch effect. Specifically, the CPU 401 stores the number of special symbol lottery suspensions stored in the RAM 403, the special symbol variation pattern included in the advance determination information stored in the RAM 403, and the advance determination information stored in the RAM 403. Whether or not there is information indicating a big hit, whether or not a pre-reading effect pattern to be described later is stored in the RAM 403 (that is, whether or not a pre-reading effect has already been executed or scheduled), etc. It is determined whether or not to execute. If the determination in step S104 is yes, the process proceeds to step S105. If the determination is no, the process proceeds to step S107.

  In step S105, the CPU 401 determines the content of the pre-reading effect. Specifically, the CPU 401 determines a pre-reading effect production pattern based on the prior determination information stored in the RAM 403. That is, in the present embodiment, when a prefetch effect is executed, a prefetch effect effect pattern is determined in advance. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S106.

  Here, the determination of the effect pattern of the prefetch effect described above will be specifically described below. As a specific example, the RAM 403 stores first preliminary determination information for the first hold of the first special symbol lottery and second preliminary determination information for the second hold of the first special symbol lottery (that is, the first special symbol lottery). It is assumed that the number of symbol lotteries is 2), the first special symbol lottery is suspended (third hold), and the third preliminary determination information is newly stored in the RAM 403. As an example, the first prior determination information includes information of “variation pattern 15 seconds” and “losing”, and the second prior determination information includes “variation pattern 10 seconds” and “losing”. Information is included, and the third prior determination information includes information of “variation pattern 20 seconds” and “big hit”. The CPU 401 determines that the pre-reading effect is to be executed based on the variation pattern included in the first to third prior determination information, information indicating the result of the big hit lottery, and the like (hereinafter, this premise is referred to as premise A). ).

  In the premise A, the CPU 401 first determines an effect pattern for the third hold based on the third prior determination information (hereinafter, the effect pattern for the nth hold (n is 1 to 4) is referred to as the nth prefetch effect pattern. ). Specifically, as the third look-ahead effect pattern, for example, the CPU 401 uses the background image BI as a background image indicating the zone A (that is, causes the zone effect to be executed), and stops the decorative design DI at the winning design (that is, The winning notification effect is executed), and the effect pattern is determined to have a variation time of 20 seconds.

  Next, the CPU 401 determines an effect pattern (first prefetch effect pattern and second prefetch effect pattern) for the first hold and the second hold based on the third prefetch effect pattern. That is, the CPU 401 determines each effect pattern so that a series of effects are produced from the effect executed based on the first prefetch effect pattern to the effect executed based on the third prefetch effect pattern. Specifically, for example, the CPU 401 stops the decorative design DI so that all of the color designs of the decorative design DI become pink designs (that is, causes the zone entry suggesting performance to be executed) as the first look-ahead performance pattern, and the variation time Is determined as an effect pattern of 15 seconds, and as the second look-ahead effect pattern, the background image BI is set as a background image indicating the zone A (that is, the zone effect is executed), and the decorative design DI is stopped at the lost design. Is determined to be an effect pattern of 10 seconds.

  Further, the CPU 401 determines, for example, by lottery as an effect using the notice effect (effect with notice) or an effect not using the notice effect (effect without notice) as the first look-ahead effect pattern. Specifically, when the CPU 401 determines the effect without notice, for example, as the first look-ahead effect pattern, for example, after the pseudo-continuous effect with a variation time of 2 seconds is executed twice, the variation time is 9 seconds. The reach effect is executed, and then the zone entry suggestion effect with a change time of 2 seconds is executed, and the effect pattern with a change time of 15 seconds (the effect pattern of the second effect without notice; see FIG. 15) is determined. As a result, an effect based on the first look-ahead effect pattern is executed by the processing of steps S111 and S112 described later, whereby the second effect without notice shown in FIG. 15 is executed.

  On the other hand, when the CPU 401 determines the effect with the notice, the CPU 401 can determine any one of the following three patterns as the first look-ahead effect pattern according to the development effect that is executed after the notice effect.

  When the CPU 401 executes the second pseudo-continuous effect as the development destination effect, for example, the first pre-reading effect pattern, for example, after executing the notice effect with a change time of 2 seconds, An effect pattern with a fluctuating time of 15 seconds is executed, followed by a reach effect with a fluctuating time of 9 seconds, followed by a zone entry suggesting effect with a fluctuating time of 2 seconds (developed into a pseudo-continuous effect) The effect pattern of the second effect with a notice to be performed; see (1) in FIG. 16). As a result, an effect based on the first look-ahead effect pattern is executed by the processing of steps S111 and S112 described later, whereby the second effect with a notice that develops into a pseudo-continuous effect shown in (1) of FIG. 16 is executed. The

  When executing the reach effect as the development destination effect, the CPU 401 executes the reach effect with the variation time of 9 seconds as the first look-ahead effect pattern, for example, after executing the notice effect with the change time of 4 seconds. Then, a zone entry suggestion effect with a variation time of 2 seconds is executed, and an effect pattern with a variation time of 15 seconds is determined (the effect pattern of the second effect with a notice to develop into a reach effect; see (2) in FIG. 16). To do. As a result, an effect based on the first look-ahead effect pattern is executed by the processing of steps S111 and S112 described later, whereby the second effect with a notice that develops into the reach effect shown in (2) of FIG. 16 is executed. .

  When the CPU 401 executes the zone entry suggestion effect as the development destination effect, for example, after executing the notice effect with the change time of 13 seconds as the first look-ahead effect pattern, the zone entry suggestion with the change time of 2 seconds is performed. The effect is determined to be an effect pattern with a fluctuating time of 15 seconds (the effect pattern of the second effect with advance notice that develops into a zone entry suggestion effect; see (3) in FIG. 16). As a result, an effect based on the first look-ahead effect pattern is executed by the processing of steps S111 and S112 described later, thereby executing the second effect with a notice that develops into the zone entry suggestion effect shown in (3) of FIG. Is done.

  Further, in the above premise A, the CPU 401 causes the decorative symbol DI to stop at the symbol as the third look-ahead effect pattern based on the third pre-determined information pattern (actual effect to execute the winning notification effect) has a variation time of 20 seconds. For example, it is also possible to determine, for example, by lottery whether an effect using the notice effect (effect with notice) or an effect without the notice effect (effect without notice) is used.

  When the CPU 401 determines the effect without notice, as the third look-ahead effect pattern, for example, after executing the zone effect with a variation time of 8 seconds, the CPU 401 executes the reach effect with a variation time of 10 seconds, An effect pattern (change effect pattern of the third effect without notice; see FIG. 17) having a change time of 20 seconds is executed to execute a winning notification effect (big hit notification) with a change time of 2 seconds. Thus, the third effect without notice shown in FIG. 17 is executed by executing the effect based on the third prefetch effect pattern by the processes of steps S111 and S112 described later.

  On the other hand, when the CPU 401 determines the effect with the notice, the CPU 401 can determine one of the following two patterns as the third look-ahead effect pattern according to the development effect executed after the notice effect.

  When the zone effect is executed as the development effect, the CPU 401 executes the zone effect with the variation time of 4 seconds as the third look-ahead effect pattern, for example, after executing the notice effect with the change time of 4 seconds. Then, a reach effect with a change time of 10 seconds is executed, and then a winning notification effect with a change time of 2 seconds is executed. An effect pattern with a change time of 20 seconds (with a notice to develop into a zone effect) Production pattern; see (1) in FIG. As a result, an effect based on the third look-ahead effect pattern is executed by the processing of steps S111 and S112 described later, whereby the third effect with a notice that develops into the zone effect shown in (1) of FIG. 18 is executed. .

  When the reach effect is executed as the development effect, the CPU 401 executes the reach effect with the variation time of 10 seconds as the third look-ahead effect pattern, for example, after executing the notice effect with the change time of 8 seconds. After that, it is determined to be an effect pattern with a variation time of 20 seconds (an announcement pattern for the third effect with advance notice to reach a reach effect; refer to (2) in FIG. 18). . As a result, an effect based on the third look-ahead effect pattern is executed by the processing of steps S111 and S112 described later, whereby the third effect with a notice that develops into the reach effect shown in (2) of FIG. 18 is executed. .

  Note that when the CPU 401 determines the effect with a notice as the third prefetch effect pattern, the effect from the effect executed based on the first prefetch effect pattern to the effect executed based on the third prefetch effect pattern is unnatural. In order to prevent this, the first pre-reading effect pattern and the second pre-reading effect pattern are determined to be effects that do not execute the zone effect or the zone entry suggestion effect.

  As described above, the CPU 401 determines whether or not to execute the pre-reading effect based on the pre-determined information stored in the RAM 403, and based on the pre-determined information, the effect based on a plurality of continuous pre-reading effect patterns is provided. Each prefetch effect pattern is determined so as to be a series of effects. At this time, the CPU 401 determines whether or not to perform the notice effect, and in the case of performing the notice effect, one of a plurality of effect patterns for executing the notice effect having a different length according to the development destination effect. The production pattern is determined.

  Returning to FIG. 22, in step S106, the CPU 401 stores the prefetch effect pattern determined in step S105 in the RAM 403 in association with the hold. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S107.

  In step S107, the CPU 401 determines whether or not the variable effect start command set in step S59 of FIG. 21 has been received. If the determination in step S107 is YES, the process proceeds to step S108, and if this determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S114.

  In step S108, the CPU 401 determines whether or not a prefetch effect is performed. Specifically, the CPU 401 determines whether or not a prefetch effect pattern is stored in the RAM 403. If the determination in step S108 is YES, the process proceeds to step S111. If the determination is NO, the process proceeds to step S109.

  In step S109, the CPU 401 analyzes the variation effect start command received in step S107. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S110.

  In step S <b> 110, the CPU 401 starts displaying the decorative pattern DI and the background image BI. Specifically, first, the CPU 401 determines an effect pattern based on the setting information included in the variable effect start command analyzed in step S109. This will be specifically described below. The setting information included in the variable production start command includes information indicating the result of the jackpot lottery (information indicating either the jackpot or the loss), information indicating the type of the jackpot if it is a jackpot, Includes information indicating whether to perform an effect with reach or an effect without reach, information indicating a variation pattern of a special symbol, and the like. In step S110, the CPU 401 determines one effect pattern as an effect pattern to be executed by lottery from among a plurality of effect patterns that satisfy the conditions indicated by the setting information included in the variable effect start command.

  As an example, it is assumed that the setting information includes information of “variation pattern 15 seconds” and “big hit”. At this time, the CPU 401 determines, for example, by lottery as an effect pattern based on the setting information, whether an effect using the notice effect (effect with notice) or an effect without the notice effect (effect without notice). . Specifically, when the CPU 401 determines the effect without notice, as the effect pattern, for example, after executing the pseudo-continuous effect with a variation time of 2 seconds twice, the reach effect with a variation time of 9 seconds is performed. Then, it is determined to be an effect pattern with a change time of 15 seconds (an effect pattern of the first effect without notice; see FIG. 13) for executing a winning notification effect with a change time of 2 seconds. Then, the CPU 401 instructs the image sound control unit 500 and the lamp control unit 600 to start the change effect of the decorative symbol DI and the display effect of the background image BI based on the determined effect pattern, thereby causing the process illustrated in FIG. The first effect without notice is shown.

  On the other hand, when the CPU 401 determines the effect with the notice, the CPU 401 can determine any one of the following three patterns as the effect pattern according to the development destination effect executed after the notice effect.

  When executing the second pseudo-continuous effect as the development effect, the CPU 401 executes, for example, the pseudo-continuous effect with the variation time of 2 seconds as the effect pattern after executing the notice effect with the variable time of 2 seconds. Next, a reach effect with a variation time of 9 seconds is executed, and then a winning notification effect with a change time of 2 seconds is executed. 1 effect production pattern; see FIG. 14 (1)). Then, the CPU 401 instructs the image sound control unit 500 and the lamp control unit 600 to start the change effect of the decorative design DI and the display effect of the background image BI based on the determined effect pattern, thereby starting the process shown in FIG. The first effect with a notice that develops into the pseudo-continuous effect shown in (1) is executed.

  When executing the reach effect as the development destination effect, the CPU 401 executes the reach effect with the variation time of 9 seconds as the first look-ahead effect pattern, for example, after executing the notice effect with the change time of 4 seconds. After that, the effect pattern of the fluctuation effect of 2 seconds is executed, and the effect pattern of the fluctuation time of 15 seconds is determined (the effect pattern of the first effect with a notice to develop into the reach effect; see (2) in FIG. 14). . Then, the CPU 401 instructs the image sound control unit 500 and the lamp control unit 600 to start the change effect of the decorative design DI and the display effect of the background image BI based on the determined effect pattern, thereby starting the process shown in FIG. The first effect with a notice to develop into the reach effect shown in (2) is executed.

  When the CPU 401 executes the winning notification effect as the development destination effect, for example, after executing the notice effect with the variation time of 13 seconds as the first look-ahead effect pattern, the CPU 401 performs the winning notification effect with the variation time of 2 seconds. The effect pattern to be executed is determined to be an effect pattern with a fluctuating time of 15 seconds (the effect pattern of the first effect with a notice that develops into a winning notification effect; see FIG. 14 (3)). Then, the CPU 401 instructs the image sound control unit 500 and the lamp control unit 600 to start the change effect of the decorative design DI and the display effect of the background image BI based on the determined effect pattern, thereby starting the process shown in FIG. The first effect with a notice that develops to the winning notification effect shown in (3) is executed.

  As described above, the CPU 401 determines whether or not to perform the notice effect when determining the effect pattern based on the setting information. In the case of performing the notice effect, the CPU 401 has a different length of notice according to the development destination effect. One of the plurality of effect patterns for executing the effect is determined.

  In step S <b> 111, the CPU 401 reads a prefetch effect pattern indicating the prefetch effect corresponding to the hold to be digested first from the RAM 403. Specifically, the CPU 401 applies the pre-reading effect pattern (first effect pattern) corresponding to the hold (for example, the first hold) corresponding to the pre-determination information stored in the RAM 403 to the oldest for the hold to be digested first. Read as a production pattern. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S112.

  In step S <b> 112, the CPU 401 starts displaying the decorative pattern DI in a variable manner and the background image BI. Specifically, the CPU 401 instructs the image sound control unit 500 and the lamp control unit 600 to perform a variation effect of the decorative design DI and a display effect of the background image BI based on the prefetch effect pattern read out in the process of step S111. Start. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S113.

  In step S113, the CPU 401 deletes the pre-reading effect pattern read in step S111 and the hold preliminary determination information corresponding to the pre-reading effect pattern from the RAM 403, and ends the process. As a result, in the prior determination information stored in the RAM 403, the hold corresponding to the previous determination information having the oldest stored time is updated (for example, updated from the first hold to the second hold).

  In step S114, the CPU 401 determines whether or not the variable effect stop command set in the process of step S62 in FIG. 21 has been received. If the determination in step S114 is YES, the process proceeds to step S115, and if this determination is NO, the process ends.

  In step S115, the CPU 401 terminates the variable symbol DI display started in the process of step S110 or step S112, and notifies the result of the special symbol lottery. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S116.

  In step S116, the CPU 401 executes a hold number subtraction process. Specifically, the CPU 401 executes the first special symbol lottery based on the information indicating which of the first special symbol lottery and the second special symbol lottery included in the setting information of the variable effect start command is executed. 1 is subtracted from the holding number of the first special symbol lottery stored in the RAM 403, and when the second special symbol lottery is executed, the second special symbol lottery stored in the RAM 403 is displayed. Subtract 1 from the number of holds. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S117.

  In step S117, the CPU 401 executes a hold display process. Specifically, the CPU 401 executes the first special symbol lottery based on the information indicating which of the first special symbol lottery and the second special symbol lottery included in the setting information of the variable effect start command is executed. If this is the case, the on-screen image indicating the number of the first special symbol lottery that is displayed first on the image display unit 21 is instructed to the image sound control unit 500 (that is, the variation of the special symbol is currently being displayed. One reserved image) is digested (deleted). If other reserved images are displayed, the reserved images are sequentially moved (that is, sequentially moved on the stage ST), and the process is terminated. Similarly, the CPU 401 indicates that information indicating which of the first special symbol lottery and the second special symbol lottery included in the setting information of the variable effect start command has been executed is that the second special symbol lottery has been executed. In the case of showing, the image sound control unit 500 is instructed to digest (delete) one reserved image that indicates the number of the second special symbol lottery displayed on the image display unit 21 earliest. If other reserved images are displayed, the reserved images are sequentially moved to end the process.

[Modification]
The flow of the above-described effect control process is only an example, and various changes can be made. For example, in the above description, based on the prior determination information notified from the main control unit 100, it is determined whether or not the effect control unit 400 performs the prefetch effect, but does the main control unit 100 perform the prefetch effect? The effect control unit 400 determines the effect pattern of the prefetch effect based on the determination result, and the image sound control unit 500 and the lamp control unit 600 execute the prefetch effect based on the effect pattern. It may be a thing. In addition, in the above description, the prefetch effect production pattern is determined for all of the stored suspensions when it is determined that the prefetch production is performed, but not for all of them. It may be determined. In the above description, the effect pattern of the prefetch effect is determined and stored in the RAM 403 when it is determined that the prefetch effect is to be performed. Only the prefetch flag information is set for the hold, and at the timing when the variation effect analysis command is received, the effect pattern of the prefetch effect is determined based on the setting information included in the variation effect analysis command and the prefetch flag information. It is good also as what to do.

  Moreover, in the said embodiment, as demonstrated using FIG. 9, the fluctuation | variation display already performed when the holding | maintenance (it is a 3rd holding | maintenance in the example of FIG. 9) determined to perform prefetching production | generation occurs. In the example of FIG. 9, the effect for the 0th reserved image RI0) is not changed, and the effect based on the prefetching is executed from the next variable display (in the example of FIG. 9, the variable display for the 1st hold). It was. However, an effect based on prefetching may be executed from a variation display that is already executed when a hold determined to perform prefetching occurs.

  Moreover, in the said embodiment, as shown in FIG.14 and FIG.16, although the pseudo | simulation continuous effect shall be performed twice, it is good also as what is performed 3 times, for example. In this case, an effect with a notice that develops to the second pseudo-continuous effect after the notice effect, and an effect with a notice that develops to the third pseudo-continuous effect after the notice effect may be prepared. As described above, even when the development effect is developed to the same pseudo-continuous effect, the number of the pseudo-continuous effects of the development destination (that is, the degree of expectation) may be varied depending on the length of the notice effect.

  In addition, the variation time of the production pattern of each production with a notice and the production without notice described in the above embodiment and the variation time of each production within the production (notification production, reach production, etc.) are merely examples. It may be a variable time.

  Further, in the above embodiment, for comparison, the variation time of the production pattern of the production with the notice and the production without the notice is the same. However, the change time of the notice effect and other effects (for example, reach effect) may be set in advance in the effect pattern of the notice effect, and the change time of the effect pattern of the notice effect and the effect without notice is not the same. Also good.

  Further, in the above embodiment, as shown in FIG. 18, as the effect that develops from the notice effect in the third effect with notice, it develops as a reach effect other than the zone effect. However, the effect that develops in addition to the zone effect in the third effect with a notice is not limited to the reach effect, but may be other effects such as a winning notification effect. Even in this case, the length of the notice effect when the zone effect is developed can be different from the length of the notice effect when the effect is developed other than the zone effect (end timing of the notice effect). . Similarly, the development destination effects in the first effect with a notice and the second effect with a notice are not limited to the effects as shown in FIGS. 14 and 16, and may be other effects.

  In the above embodiment, as the reserved image RI, the reserved image RI0 that is currently being displayed with the variation of the special symbol is also displayed on the image display unit 21, but the reserved image RI0 that is currently being displayed with the variation of the special symbol is It may not be displayed. Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the hold image RI is displayed on the stage ST. However, the hold image RI is displayed at a predetermined position according to the number of times the hold image RI is held without displaying the stage ST. It is good also as a thing.

  In the above embodiment, the zone effect is performed using the background image BI. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a character image indicating the zone may be displayed, or by sound indicating the zone. An effect may be executed, and various modifications can be made as a zone effect.

  In the above embodiment, the example in which the prefetch effect is performed when the hold determined to execute the prefetch effect is the third hold has been described. Needless to say, other hold may be used. Moreover, it is good also as what sets suitably the holding (variation display) which starts execution of a prefetch effect according to the number of holding memorize | stored when it determines with performing a prefetch effect. That is, for example, when the hold determined to execute the prefetch effect is the fourth hold and the first hold to the third hold are stored, the prefetch effect is executed over the first hold to the fourth hold. It is good also as a thing, and it is good also as what performs over 3rd reservation-4th reservation.

  In the above-described embodiment, the configuration in which the second special symbol lottery is executed with priority over the first special symbol lottery has been described as an example (see steps S53 to S56 in FIG. 21). However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the first special symbol lottery and the second special symbol lottery are held in the order in which they are put on hold (that is, the order in which the game balls win the first start port 25a and the second start port 25b). May be executed).

  In the above-described embodiment, the game configuration (so-called loop machine) that is set to the high-probability / time-short state until the next big hit is described as an example. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, in the case of a big hit, the high probability / short time state is set until the special symbol lottery is executed a predetermined number of times (for example, 100 times) thereafter, and then the normal gaming state is set. A game configuration of a so-called ST machine may be used.

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

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

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Game machine 2 ... Game board 20 ... Game area 21 ... Image display part 22 ... Movable accessory 23 ... Board lamp 24 ... Discharge port 25a ... 1st start port 25b ... 2nd start port 26 ... Electric tulip 27 ... Gate 28 ... Big winning opening 29 ... Normal winning opening 3 ... Display 31a ... First special symbol display 31b ... Second special symbol display 32a ... First special symbol hold indicator 32b ... Second special symbol hold indicator 33 ... Normal Symbol display 34 ... Normal symbol hold indicator 35 ... Game status indicator 43 ... Lock portion 5 ... Frame member 51 ... Handle 52 ... Lever 53 ... Stop button 54 ... Eject button 55 ... Speaker 56 ... Frame lamp 57 ... Direction button 58 ... Production key 59 ... Dish 100 ... Main control unit 101, 201, 301, 401, 501, 601 ... CPU
102, 202, 302, 402, 502, 602 ... ROM
103, 203, 303, 403, 503, 603 ... RAM
111a ... 1st start port switch 111b ... 2nd start port switch 112 ... Electric tulip opening / closing part 113 ... Gate switch 114 ... Grand prize opening switch 115 ... Grand prize opening / closing part 116 ... Normal prize opening switch 200 ... Launch control part 211 ... Launching device 300 ... payout control unit 311 ... payout drive unit 400 ... production control unit 404 ... RTC
500 ... Image sound control unit 600 ... Lamp control unit DI ... Decorative design RI ... Hold image ST ... Stage BI ... Background image

Claims (1)

Determination means for determining whether or not to execute a special game advantageous to the player;
Prior determination means for performing prior determination as to whether or not to execute the special game before the determination is performed;
In accordance with the determination being made, an effect execution means for executing a predetermined effect is provided,
The production execution means
There is a possibility that it has been determined to execute the special game in the preliminary determination, and an indication of the development to a specific effect indicating that the special game is determined to be executed in the determination, Can be used to provide a notice effect that includes a suggestion to develop a suggestion effect
Based on the result of the determination, when performing the reach effect after performing the notice effect for a first time;
Based on the result of the determination, when performing the specific effect after performing the notice effect for a second time;
A gaming machine in which the suggestion effect is executed after the notice effect is performed for a third time based on the result of the prior determination .

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