JP6090392B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine.

  As a kind of gaming machine, a pachinko gaming machine, a slot machine, and the like are known. These gaming machines include a control board on which an element such as a memory in which a CPU is mounted and a control program relating to the game is stored is mounted, and a series of games are controlled by the control board. A configuration is also known in which the CPU and the memory are not individually mounted on the control board, but are mounted on the control board in an integrated state.

  Among the above gaming machines, those equipped with a display device having a display screen, such as a liquid crystal display device, are known. Such a gaming machine is equipped with a memory for image data in which image data is stored in advance, and a predetermined image is displayed on the display screen using the image data read from the memory ( For example, see Patent Document 1).

JP 2007-7465 A

Nevertheless, the concern that data increases by a variety of display effect, the data increases increase in the storage capacity required to store the data is concerned.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned circumstances and the like, and an object thereof is to provide a gaming machine capable of suppressing an increase in storage capacity related to data while diversifying display effects. To do.

The present invention
Display means having a display screen;
Display storage means for storing image data in advance;
Based on setting the image data in a predetermined setting storage means, the image is displayed on the display screen, and the content of the image for a predetermined area is updated at a predetermined update timing. Display control means;
In gaming machines equipped with
Pattern data storage means storing pattern data for determining each display mode when an individual image displayed on a part of the display screen is displayed while changing the display mode over a plurality of update timings;
Based on setting the image data corresponding to the predetermined individual image in the setting storage means according to the pattern data, the predetermined individual image is displayed in a predetermined display pattern, and the predetermined individual image is displayed according to the pattern data. Display execution means for displaying the different individual images in a predetermined display pattern based on setting the image data corresponding to the different individual images in the setting storage means;
With
The display executing means changes at least the coordinate information of parameter information applied to the image data set in the setting storage means using the pattern data, whereby an individual image corresponding to the image data is predetermined. It is displayed with the display pattern of
As the pattern data,
First pattern data that changes the coordinates in the first direction but does not change the coordinates in the second direction;
Second pattern data for changing both the coordinates in the first direction and the coordinates in the second direction, and
The first pattern data is normal variation display pattern data corresponding to a normal variation display pattern in which a variation individual image is variably displayed in a plurality of variation display areas,
In the second pattern data, a reach individual image is standby displayed in a variation display region other than the specific variation display region among the plurality of variation display regions, and a variation individual image is displayed in the specific variation display region. Reach fluctuation display pattern data corresponding to the reach fluctuation display pattern displayed in a variable manner.
Up direction der that the second direction is perpendicular to the first direction,
Wherein the second pattern data, the coordinates of the variations for individual images in the particular variation display region is characterized that you have been set corresponding to each of said update timing.

  According to the present invention, an increase in data storage capacity can be suppressed while diversifying display effects.

The front view which shows the pachinko machine in 1st Embodiment. (A)-(j) Explanatory drawing for demonstrating the display content in the display screen of a symbol display apparatus. (A), (b) Explanatory drawing for demonstrating the display content in the display screen of a symbol display apparatus. The block diagram which shows the electrical constitution of a pachinko machine. Explanatory drawing for demonstrating the content of the various counters used for a lottery lottery etc. The block diagram for demonstrating the hardware constitutions of a memory module. The flowchart which shows the data transfer process performed with a controller. The timing chart which shows the mode of data transfer. The flowchart which shows the main process performed with display CPU. The flowchart which shows the initial setting process performed with display CPU. The flowchart which shows the V interruption process performed with display CPU. (A)-(c) Explanatory drawing for demonstrating the content of the drawing list. The flowchart which shows the drawing process performed by VDP. Explanatory drawing for demonstrating the range of the virtual two-dimensional plane used as calculation object in display CPU. The flowchart which shows the task process performed with display CPU. (A), (b) Explanatory drawing for demonstrating a mode that each individual image becomes a control object. Explanatory drawing for demonstrating scroll background data. Explanatory drawing for demonstrating the effect | action by having set the overlap area | region. The flowchart which shows the calculation process for the scroll background performed by display CPU. The flowchart which shows the setting process of the division | segmentation part data performed by VDP. Explanatory drawing for demonstrating background data for small unit groups. The flowchart which shows the calculation process for the displacement background performed with display CPU. (A)-(e) Explanatory drawing for demonstrating the addition process of an effect image. The flowchart which shows the calculation process for the 1st effect presentation performed with display CPU. The flowchart which shows the setting process for the 1st effect production performed by VDP. (A) The flowchart which shows 1st effect addition processing, (b) Explanatory drawing for demonstrating the mode of 1st effect addition processing. (A) Explanatory drawing for demonstrating the data structure for performing partial addition, (b) The flowchart which shows the calculation process for the 2nd effect presentation performed with display CPU. The flowchart which shows the setting process for the 2nd effect production performed by VDP. (A) The flowchart which shows 2nd effect addition processing, (b) Explanatory drawing for demonstrating the mode of 2nd effect addition processing. The flowchart which shows the calculation process for the multiple effect effects performed with display CPU. (A) The flowchart which shows the setting process for multiple effects production performed by VDP, (b) Explanatory drawing for demonstrating the area for synthetic data. (A)-(g) Explanatory drawing for demonstrating (alpha) data. The flowchart which shows the calculation process for symbols performed by display CPU. (A) The flowchart which shows the setting process of the symbol sprite data performed by VDP, (b) Explanatory drawing for demonstrating a mode that a part display of a symbol is performed. (A)-(h) Explanatory drawing for demonstrating a 1st another form. (A) Explanatory drawing for demonstrating 2nd another form, (b) The flowchart which shows the setting process of the symbol sprite data performed by VDP. (A) The flowchart which shows the character transition process performed by VDP, (b)-(f) Explanatory drawing for demonstrating a mode that character transition display is performed. (A)-(d) Explanatory drawing for demonstrating a wipe switching effect. The flowchart which shows the calculation process for the wipe switching effect performed with display CPU. Explanatory drawing for demonstrating the drawing list | wrist produced when a wipe switching effect is performed. The flowchart which shows the setting process for the wipe switching effect performed by VDP. (A)-(c) Explanatory drawing for demonstrating a wipe switching effect. (A) Explanatory drawing for demonstrating the sprite for smooth movement, (b), (c) Explanatory drawing for demonstrating the sprite data for displaying the sprite for smooth movement. The flowchart which shows the calculation process for smooth movement performed with display CPU. (A) The flowchart which shows the setting process for smooth movement performed by VDP, (b) The explanatory view for demonstrating a mode that the setting process for smooth movement is performed. (A), (b) Explanatory drawing for demonstrating the mode of the resolution adjustment by a scaler. The flowchart which shows the arithmetic processing for zoom-in effects performed with display CPU. The flowchart which shows the setting process for zoom-in effects performed by VDP. The flowchart which shows the process for the output performed in a display circuit. (A)-(c) Explanatory drawing for demonstrating the state of a zoom-in effect. (A)-(c) Explanatory drawing for demonstrating the data structure of moving image data. (A)-(c) Explanatory drawing for demonstrating the display content by moving image data. The flowchart which shows the calculation process for the moving images performed by display CPU. (A) The flowchart which shows the decoding process by a moving image decoder, (b) The flowchart which shows the setting process for moving images performed by VDP. (A)-(c) Explanatory drawing for demonstrating curve orbit effect image data. Explanatory drawing for demonstrating the data for curve orbit animation. The flowchart which shows a curved track effect command corresponding process. The flowchart which shows the calculation process for curve orbit production. The flowchart which shows the setting process for curve orbit production. (A), (b) Explanatory drawing for demonstrating curve orbit production. (A), (b) Explanatory drawing for demonstrating symbol sprite data, (c) Explanatory drawing for demonstrating the positional relationship of symbol sprite data, and the relationship between symbol sprite data and a drawing range. (A) Explanatory diagram for explaining the upper symbol sequence table TD1, (b) Explanatory diagram for explaining the middle symbol sequence table TD2, (c) Explanatory diagram for explaining the lower symbol sequence table TD3 . The flowchart which shows the calculation process for normal fluctuation | variation display. The flowchart which shows the calculation process for curve fluctuation | variation display. The flowchart which shows the calculation process of symbols other than a reference | standard symbol. A flowchart showing a reference change process; (A)-(d) Explanatory drawing for demonstrating a curve fluctuation display. The block diagram which shows the electric constitution of the pachinko machine in 2nd Embodiment. The block diagram for demonstrating the hardware constitutions of a memory module. The flowchart which shows the task process performed with display CPU. (A)-(c) Explanatory drawing for demonstrating the content of the drawing list. The flowchart which shows the drawing process performed by VDP. Explanatory drawing for demonstrating a mode that drawing data is produced with execution of a drawing process. The flowchart which shows the hidden surface process using the Z buffer performed by VDP. The flowchart which shows the calculation process for masks performed with display CPU. (A), (b) Explanatory drawing for demonstrating the specific content of a 1st mask display. (A)-(d) Explanatory drawing for demonstrating the specific content of a 2nd mask display. The flowchart which shows the calculation process for masks performed with display CPU. The flowchart which shows the operation generation command response process performed with display CPU. The flowchart which shows the calculation process for the display mode background performed with display CPU. The flowchart which shows the calculation process for symbols performed by display CPU. The flowchart which shows the setting process for backgrounds performed by VDP. The flowchart which shows the drawing data creation process for backgrounds performed by VDP. The timing chart which shows the timing which the separate preservation | save data for 1st display modes and the separate preservation | save data for 2nd display modes are produced. (A), (b) Explanatory drawing for demonstrating a connection object. The flowchart which shows the calculation process for the connection object performed by display CPU. The flowchart which shows the setting process for the connection object effect performed in VDP. (A)-(c) Explanatory drawing for demonstrating a connection object effect. The block diagram which shows the electric constitution of the display control apparatus in 3rd Embodiment. The flowchart which shows the arithmetic process for background performed by the display CPU in 4th Embodiment. The flowchart which shows the timer interruption process performed in MPU of the main control unit in a 1st process structure. The flowchart which shows the normal process performed by MPU of the main control apparatus in a 1st process structure. The flowchart which shows the game times control process performed in MPU of the main control unit in a 1st process structure. The flowchart which shows the fluctuation | variation start process performed by MPU of the main control apparatus in a 1st process structure. The flowchart which shows the main process performed by MPU of the main control apparatus in a 2nd process structure. The flowchart which shows the timer interruption process performed in MPU of the main controller in a 2nd process structure.

<First Embodiment>
Hereinafter, a first embodiment of a pachinko gaming machine (hereinafter referred to as a “pachinko machine”), which is a type of gaming machine, will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a front view of the pachinko machine 10.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the pachinko machine 10 includes an outer frame 11 that forms an outer shell of the pachinko machine 10, and a gaming machine body 12 that is rotatably attached to the outer frame 11. . The gaming machine main body 12 includes an inner frame (not shown), a front door frame 14 arranged in front of the inner frame, and a back pack unit (not shown) arranged behind the inner frame.

  The inner frame of the gaming machine main body 12 is rotatably supported by the outer frame 11 with one of the left and right side portions serving as a support side. Further, the front door frame 14 is rotatably supported by the inner frame, and can be rotated forward by using one of the left and right side portions as a support side. Further, the back pack unit is rotatably supported by the inner frame, and can be rotated rearward with one of the left and right side portions as a support side.

  Note that the gaming machine body 12 is provided with a locking device (not shown) at its rotating tip, and has a function of locking the gaming machine body 12 to the outer frame 11 so that it cannot be opened. In addition, the front door frame 14 has a function of locking the front door frame 14 to the inner frame so as not to be opened. Each of these locked states is released by performing an unlocking operation using the unlocking key on the cylinder lock 17 that is exposed on the front surface of the pachinko machine 10.

  A game board 20 is mounted on the inner frame. The game board 20 has a plurality of large and small openings penetrating in the front-rear direction. Each opening is provided with a general winning port 21, a variable winning device 22, an upper operating port 23, a lower operating port 24, a through gate 25, a variable display unit 26, a main display unit 33, an accessory display unit 34, and the like. ing.

  When a ball enters the general winning port 21, the variable winning device 22, the upper operating port 23, and the lower operating port 24, it is detected by a detection sensor (not shown) disposed on the back side of the game board 20, Based on the detection result, a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out. In addition, an out port 27 is provided at the lowermost part of the game board 20, and game balls that have not entered various winning ports etc. are discharged from the game area through the out port 27. The game board 20 is provided with a large number of nails 28 and various members such as a windmill in order to disperse and adjust the falling direction of the game balls as appropriate.

  Here, the entry ball means that the game ball passes through a predetermined opening, and is not only a mode of being discharged from the game area after passing through the opening, but is discharged from the game area after passing through the opening. Embodiments that are not included are also included. However, in the following description, in order to clearly distinguish the game ball from entering the out port 27, the game ball enters the variable winning device 22, the upper operating port 23, the lower operating port 24 or the through gate 25. Is also expressed as a prize.

  The upper operating port 23 and the lower operating port 24 are unitized as operating port devices and are installed in the game board 20. Both the upper working port 23 and the lower working port 24 are opened upward. Further, both the operation ports 23 and 24 are arranged in the vertical direction so that the upper operation port 23 is on the upper side. The lower working port 24 is provided with an electric accessory 24a as a guide piece (support piece) composed of a pair of left and right movable pieces. In the closed state (non-supported state or non-guided state) of the electric accessory 24a, the game ball cannot win the lower operating port 24, and the electric operating member 24a is in the open state (supported state or guide state). It is possible to win 24.

  The variable winning device 22 includes a large winning opening 22a that leads to the back side of the game board 20, and an open / close door 22b that opens and closes the large winning opening 22a. The open / close door 22b is normally in a closed state where a game ball cannot be won or difficult to win, and a predetermined game ball is likely to win when winning the opening / closing execution mode (open / close execution state) in the internal lottery. It can be switched to the open state. Here, the opening / closing execution mode is a mode to be shifted to when a big win is won. The opening / closing execution mode will be described in detail later. As a release mode of the variable winning device 22, the variable winning device 22 is repeatedly opened with a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) or a predetermined number (for example, 10) of winnings as one round and a plurality of rounds (for example, 15 rounds) as an upper limit. There is an embodiment.

  The main display section 33 and the accessory display section 34 are provided on the lower side of the game area. In the main display unit 33, the display of the variation of the picture is performed with the winning of the upper working port 23 or the lower working port 24 as a trigger, and as a result of stopping the variation display, the winning to the upper working port 23 or the lower working port 24 is achieved. The result of the internal lottery performed based on the display is clearly shown. That is, in the present pachinko machine 10, the winning to the upper working port 23 and the winning to the lower working port 24 are not distinguished in the internal lottery, and are performed based on the winning to the upper working port 23 or the lower working port 24. The result of the internal lottery is displayed on the main display section 33 which is a common display area. When the result of the internal lottery based on the winning to the upper working port 23 or the lower working port 24 is a winning result corresponding to the shift to the opening / closing execution mode, a predetermined stop result is displayed on the main display unit 33. After the display and the change display are stopped, the mode shifts to the opening / closing execution mode.

  The main display unit 33 is configured by a segment display in which a plurality of segment light emitting units are arranged in a predetermined manner. However, the main display unit 33 is not limited to this, and a liquid crystal display device, an organic EL display device, You may be comprised by other types of display apparatuses, such as CRT and a dot matrix. In addition, as a pattern that is variably displayed on the main display unit 33, a configuration in which a plurality of types of characters are variably displayed, a configuration in which a plurality of types of symbols are variably displayed, a configuration in which a plurality of types of characters are variably displayed, or a plurality A configuration in which the color of the seed is switched and displayed can be considered.

  The accessory display unit 34 displays a variation of the picture triggered by a winning to the through gate 25, and the result of the internal lottery performed based on the winning to the through gate 25 as a result of stopping the variation display. Explicit by display. When the result of the internal lottery based on the winning to the through gate 25 is a winning result corresponding to the transition to the electric role open state, a predetermined stop result is displayed on the accessory display unit 34 and displayed in a variable manner. After is stopped, it shifts to the electric utility open state. In the electric combination open state, the electric combination 24a provided in the lower working port 24 is opened in a predetermined manner.

  The variable display unit 26 is provided with a symbol display device 31 that performs variable display (or variable display or switching display) of a symbol that is a kind of symbol. The variable display unit 26 is provided with a center frame 32 so as to surround the symbol display device 31. The center frame 32 has an upper portion extending forward of the pachinko machine 10. As a result, the game ball is prevented from dropping in front of the display screen of the symbol display device 31, and the inconvenience that the visibility of the display screen is reduced due to the fall of the game ball is not caused. .

  The symbol display device 31 is configured as a liquid crystal display device including a liquid crystal display, and display contents are controlled by a display control device described later. The symbol display device 31 is not limited to a liquid crystal display device, and may be another display device such as a plasma display device, an organic EL display device, or a CRT.

  In the symbol display device 31, the variation display of the symbol is started based on the winning in the upper working port 23 or the lower working port 24. That is, when variable display is performed on the main display unit 33, variable display is performed on the symbol display device 31 accordingly. For example, in the game times in which the game result is a jackpot result, the symbol display device 31 stops and displays a predetermined combination of symbols on a preset active line.

  The display content of the symbol display device 31 will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. FIG. 2 is a diagram individually showing symbols variably displayed on the symbol display device 31, and FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a display screen G of the symbol display device 31.

  As shown in FIGS. 2 (a) to 2 (j), a design which is a kind of design is composed of nine main designs with numbers "1" to "9", respectively, and a shell-shaped design. It consists of sub-designs. More specifically, the main symbols are configured by attaching numbers “1” to “9” to nine types of character symbols such as octopus.

  As shown in FIG. 3A, on the display screen G of the symbol display device 31, three symbol rows Z1, Z2, and Z3 of an upper stage, a middle stage, and a lower stage are set as a plurality of display areas. Each of the symbol rows Z1 to Z3 includes a main symbol and a sub symbol arranged in a predetermined order. Specifically, nine types of main symbols “1” to “9” are arranged in descending order of numbers in the upper symbol row Z1, and one sub symbol is arranged between each main symbol. . In the lower symbol row Z3, nine types of main symbols “1” to “9” are arranged in ascending numerical order, and one sub symbol is arranged between the main symbols.

  That is, the upper symbol row Z1 and the lower symbol row Z3 are composed of 18 symbols. On the other hand, in the middle symbol row Z2, nine types of main symbols “1” to “9” are arranged in ascending numerical order, and then between the main symbol “9” and the main symbol “1”. In addition, a main symbol “4” is additionally arranged, and one sub symbol is arranged between each main symbol. In other words, only the middle symbol row Z2 is composed of 20 symbols by arranging 10 main symbols. On the display screen G, the symbols in the symbol rows Z1 to Z3 are displayed in a variable manner so as to scroll in a predetermined direction with periodicity.

  As shown in FIG. 3B, on the display screen G, 3 symbols are stopped and displayed for each symbol row, and as a result, a total of 9 symbols of 3 × 3 are stopped and displayed. It is like that. The display screen G has five effective lines, that is, a left line L1, a middle line L2, a right line L3, a right lowering line L4, and a right uppering line L5. Then, the variable display stops in the order of the upper symbol row Z1 → the lower symbol row Z3 → the middle symbol row Z2, and all the symbol rows Z1 are formed in a state in which a combination of symbols having the same number attached to any one of the effective lines is formed. When the fluctuation display of .about.Z3 is completed, the jackpot moving image is displayed as a normal jackpot result or a 15R probability variable jackpot result which will be described later.

  In this pachinko machine 10, the main symbols with odd numbers (1, 3, 5, 7, 9) correspond to “specific symbols”, and when a 15R probability variation jackpot result is generated, The combination is stopped. The main symbols with even numbers (2, 4, 6, 8) correspond to “non-specific symbols”. When a normal jackpot result occurs, the combination of the same non-specific symbols is stopped and displayed. The

  In addition, when an explicit 2R probability variation jackpot result to be described later is obtained, the variation display of all the symbol rows Z1 to Z3 is finished in a state where a predetermined symbol combination different from the same symbol combination is formed, and then, An explicit video is displayed.

  In addition, the mode of the variable display of the symbol in the symbol display device 31 is not limited to the above, and is arbitrary. The number of symbol columns, the direction of the symbol variable display in the symbol column, the number of symbols in each symbol column, etc. Can be appropriately changed. Also, the pattern that is variably displayed on the symbol display device 31 is not limited to the above-described pattern. For example, only a numeral may be variably displayed as the pattern.

  In addition, based on the winning of any one of the operating ports 23 and 24, the main display unit 33 and the symbol display device 31 start the variable display, display a predetermined stop result, and stop the variable display. It corresponds to one game time.

  In the upper left portion on the front side of the center frame 32, a first holding light emitting portion (first holding lamp portion) 35 corresponding to the main display portion 33 and the symbol display device 31 is provided. The maximum number of game balls won in the upper operating port 23 or the lower operating port 24 is reserved up to four, and the reserved number is displayed when the first holding light emitting unit 35 is turned on.

  In the upper right portion of the center frame 32, a second reserved light emitting unit (second reserved lamp unit) 36 corresponding to the accessory display unit 34 is provided. The number of times that the game ball has passed through the through gate 25 is held up to a maximum of 4 times, and the number of held balls is displayed by turning on the second holding light emitting unit 36. In addition, it is good also as a structure by which the function of each holding | maintenance light emission parts 35 and 36 is fulfill | performed by the display in the one part area | region of the symbol display apparatus 31. FIG.

  A rail portion 37 is attached to the game board 20, and a guide rail is constituted by the rail portion 37, and the game board 20 is fired from a game ball launching mechanism (not shown) mounted below the game board 20 in the inner frame. A game ball is guided to the upper part of the game area. The game ball launching mechanism launches a game ball by operating a launch handle 41 provided on the front door frame 14.

  A front door frame 14 is provided so as to cover the entire front side of the inner frame. As shown in FIG. 1, the front door frame 14 is formed with a window portion 42 so that almost the entire game area can be viewed from the front. The window part 42 has a substantially elliptical shape, and a window panel (not shown) is fitted therein. The window panel is made colorless and transparent with glass, but is not limited thereto, and may be made colorless and transparent with synthetic resin.

  A light emitting means is provided around the window portion 42. A display light-emitting part 44 is provided above the window part 42 as a part of the light-emitting means. In addition, on both the left and right sides of the display light emitting unit 44, speaker units 45 that output sound effects according to the gaming state are provided.

  Below the window portion 42 in the front door frame 14, an upper bulging portion 46 and a lower bulging portion 47 that bulge to the near side are provided in parallel. An upper pan 46 a that opens upward is provided inside the upper bulging portion 46, and a lower pan 47 a that also opens upward is provided inside the lower bulging portion 47. The upper plate 46a has a function of temporarily storing game balls paid out from a payout device described later and guiding them to the game ball launching mechanism side while aligning them in a line. In addition, the lower tray 47a has a function of storing game balls that become surplus in the upper tray 46a. The game balls paid out from the payout device mounted on the back pack unit are discharged to the upper plate 46a and the lower plate 47a.

  In the region of the upper bulging portion 46 facing the front of the pachinko machine 10, an effect operating device 48 having an operation portion manually operated by the player is provided. The operation unit of the effect operation device 48 is manually operated by the player so that the effect content on the display screen G of the symbol display device 31 is the predetermined effect content.

  A main control device, a sound emission control device, and a display control device are mounted on the back side of the inner frame. Further, as described above, a back pack unit is provided on the back surface of the inner frame. The back pack unit includes a payout mechanism including a payout device, a payout control device, a power source and a firing control device. Is installed. Hereinafter, the electrical configuration of the pachinko machine 10 will be described.

<Electric configuration of pachinko machine 10>
FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a basic electrical configuration of the pachinko machine 10.

<Main controller 50>
The main control device 50 includes a main control board 51 that controls the main game. In the main control device 50, a trace box for giving a trace of the opening or a trace structure for leaving the trace of the opening is provided to the board box that accommodates the main control board 51 or the like. It may be. As the trace means, a plurality of case bodies constituting the substrate box are unseparably coupled, and a configuration of a coupling portion (caulking portion) that requires destruction of a predetermined part at the time of separation, or an adhesive layer is attached by peeling off. A configuration is conceivable in which a seal seal that leaves a trace of being peeled off by being left is attached so as to straddle the boundary between a plurality of case bodies. Moreover, as a trace structure, the structure which apply | coats an adhesive agent with respect to the boundary between the some case bodies which comprise a board | substrate box can be considered.

  An MPU 52 is mounted on the main control board 51. The MPU 52 includes a ROM 53 that stores various control programs executed by the MPU 52 and fixed value data, and a memory that temporarily stores various data when the control program stored in the ROM 53 is executed. A RAM 54, an interrupt circuit, a timer circuit, a data input / output circuit, various counter circuits as a random number generator, and the like are incorporated.

  The ROM 53 is a storage means (that is, a non-volatile storage means) that can be randomly accessed when reading a control program or fixed value data and does not require external power supply for storage retention. Specifically, a NOR type cache memory is used. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the type of memory used as the ROM 53 is arbitrary as long as random access is possible. In addition, the configuration in which the control and calculation portion, the ROM 53, and the RAM 54 are integrated into one chip is not essential, and each function may be mounted as a separate chip, and some functions may be configured as separate chips. It is good also as a structure currently mounted.

  The MPU 52 is provided with an input port and an output port. A power source and launch control device 57 is connected to the input side of the MPU 52. The power source and launch control device 57 is connected to, for example, a commercial power source (external power source) in a game hall or the like. And based on the external electric power supplied from the commercial power supply, while generating the operating power required for each to the main control board 51, the generated operating power is supplied. Incidentally, the operating power is supplied not only to the main control board 51 but also to other devices such as the payout control device 55 and the display control device 70 described later.

  A power failure monitoring board may be provided on the power path between the MPU 52 and the power source and launch control device 57. In this case, the occurrence of a power failure is monitored by the power failure monitoring board, and when the occurrence of a power failure is confirmed, a power failure signal is transmitted to the MPU 52 so that the MPU 52 executes processing for a power failure. It becomes possible to do.

  Various sensors (not shown) are connected to the input side of the MPU 52. As a part of the various sensors, there are detection sensors provided one-to-one with respect to a winning-corresponding ball entering portion such as a general winning port 21, a variable winning device 22, an upper operating port 23, a lower operating port 24 and a through gate 25. It is included, and MPU 52 performs a winning determination (entrance determination) to each winning part. In addition, the MPU 52 executes a lottery occurrence lottery and a jackpot result type lottery based on winning to the upper operation port 23 and the lower operation port 24, and also executes a reach occurrence lottery and a display continuation time determination lottery for each game.

  Here, a configuration for performing various lotteries in the MPU 52 will be described.

  The MPU 52 uses lots of counter information in the game to perform jackpot occurrence lottery, display setting of the main display unit 33, setting of symbol display of the symbol display device 31, setting of display of the accessory display unit 34, and the like. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 5, the jackpot random number counter C1 used for the jackpot occurrence lottery, the jackpot type counter C2 used for determining the jackpot type such as the probability variation jackpot result or the normal jackpot result, Reach random number counter C3 used for reach generation lottery when the display device 31 changes and fluctuates, random number initial value counter CINI used for setting the initial value of the big hit random number counter C1, fluctuations in the main display unit 33 and the symbol display device 31 A variation type counter CS that determines the display time is used. Furthermore, the electric accessory release counter C4 used for the lottery to determine whether or not the electric accessory 24a of the lower working port 24 is in the electric utility open state is used.

  Each of the counters C1 to C3, CINI, CS, and C4 is a loop counter that adds 1 to the previous value every time it is updated and returns to 0 after reaching the maximum value. Each counter is updated at short time intervals, and the updated value is appropriately stored in a lottery counter buffer 54 a set in a predetermined area of the RAM 54. Among these, in the lottery counter buffer 54a, the information corresponding to the big hit random number counter C1, the big hit type counter C2 and the reach random number counter C3 is obtained information storage when a winning to the upper working port 23 or the lower working port 24 occurs. It is stored in the reserved ball storage area 54b as a means.

  The holding ball storage area 54b includes a holding area RE and an execution area AE. The holding area RE includes a first holding area RE1, a second holding area RE2, a third holding area RE3, and a fourth holding area RE4, and matches the winning history to the upper operating port 23 or the lower operating port 24. The numerical information of the jackpot random number counter C1, the jackpot type counter C2 and the reach random number counter C3 stored in the lottery counter buffer 54a is stored in one of the holding areas RE1 to RE4 as holding information.

  In this case, in the first reservation area RE1 to the fourth reservation area RE4, when the winning to the upper operation port 23 or the lower operation port 24 is continuously generated a plurality of times, the first reservation area RE1 → the second reservation area. Each numerical information is stored in time series in the order of RE2 → third reserved area RE3 → fourth reserved area RE4. By providing the four holding areas RE1 to RE4 as described above, up to four game balls winning histories to the upper operating port 23 or the lower operating port 24 are stored on hold. In addition, the holding area RE includes a holding number storage area NA, in order to specify the number in which the winning history to the upper operating port 23 or the lower operating port 24 is stored in the holding number storage area NA. Is stored.

  Note that the number that can be reserved and stored is not limited to four, but may be any other number such as two, three, or five or more.

  The execution area AE is an area for moving each value stored in the first holding area RE1 of the holding area RE when starting the variable display on the main display unit 33, and at the start of one game round. Based on various numerical information stored in the execution area AE, determination of whether or not is made is performed.

  Each of the counters will be described in detail.

  For details of each counter, the jackpot random number counter C1 is configured such that, for example, 1 is sequentially added within a range of 0 to 599, and after reaching the maximum value, it returns to 0. In particular, when the jackpot random number counter C1 makes one round, the value of the random number initial value counter CINI at that time is read as the initial value of the jackpot random number counter C1. The random number initial value counter CINI is a loop counter similar to the jackpot random number counter C1 (value = 0 to 599). The big hit random number counter C1 is periodically updated and stored in the holding ball storage area 54b at the timing when the game ball wins the upper operation port 23 or the lower operation port 24.

  The value of the random number for winning the jackpot is stored as a success / failure table (a success / failure information group) in a success / failure table storage area as a success / failure information group storage means in the ROM 53. As the success / failure table, a success / failure table for the low probability mode (low probability success / failure information group) and a high probability mode's success / failure table (high probability success / failure information group) are set. That is, in the present pachinko machine 10, a low probability mode (low probability state) and a high probability mode (high probability state) are set as the lottery mode in the winning lottery means.

  In the gaming state in which the winning / failing table for the low probability mode is referred to at the time of the lottery, the number of random numbers that win the jackpot is two. On the other hand, in the gaming state in which the winning / failing table for the high probability mode is referred to at the time of the lottery, the number of random numbers that will win the jackpot is 20. If the winning probability in the high probability mode is higher than that in the low probability mode, the number of random numbers to be won is arbitrary.

  The jackpot type counter C2 is configured so that 1 is added in order within a range of 0 to 29, and after reaching the maximum value, it returns to 0. The big hit type counter C2 is periodically updated and stored in the holding ball storage area 54b at the timing when the game ball wins the upper operation port 23 or the lower operation port 24.

  In the pachinko machine 10, a plurality of jackpot results are set. These multiple jackpot results are: (1) the mode of opening / closing control of the variable winning device 22 in the opening / closing execution mode, (2) the lottery mode in the winning lottery means after the opening / closing execution mode ends, and (3) the bottom after the opening / closing execution mode ends. A plurality of jackpot results are set by providing a difference in the three conditions of the support mode in the electric accessory 24a of the operating port 24.

  As an aspect of the opening / closing control of the variable winning device 22 in the opening / closing execution mode, the variable winning device 22 can be controlled so that the frequency of occurrence of winnings in the variable winning device 22 is relatively high from the start to the end of the opening / closing execution mode. A frequency winning mode and a low frequency winning mode are set. Specifically, in the high-frequency winning mode, the opening / closing of the special winning opening 22a is performed 15 times (number of times for high frequency) from the start to the end of the opening / closing execution mode, and one opening is 30 sec (high frequency time) ) Or until the number of winning prizes to the big winning opening 22a reaches 10 (high frequency). On the other hand, in the low-frequency winning mode, the opening / closing of the special winning opening 22a is performed twice (number of times for low frequency) from the start to the end of the opening / closing execution mode, and one opening is 0.2 sec (low frequency time). Or until the number of winning prizes in the special winning opening 22a reaches 6 (the number of low frequency).

  In this pachinko machine 10, in a situation where the launch handle 41 is operated by the player, the game ball launching mechanism 58 is driven and controlled so that one game ball is launched toward the game area in 0.6 seconds. . On the other hand, in the low frequency winning mode, as described above, the opening time of one large winning opening 22a is 0.2 sec. That is, in the low-frequency winning mode, the opening time of the one big winning opening 22a is shorter than the game ball firing cycle. Therefore, in the opening / closing execution mode according to the low frequency winning mode, the winning of the game ball does not substantially occur.

  It should be noted that the number of opening / closing of the large winning opening 22a in the high-frequency winning mode and the low-frequency winning mode, the opening limit time (or opening limit period) for one opening, and the opening limit number for one opening are the same as those in the high-frequency winning mode. If the occurrence frequency of winning in the variable winning device 22 is higher than that in the low frequency winning mode until the opening / closing execution mode is started and ended, the value is not limited to the above value. Is optional. Specifically, if the high frequency winning mode has a larger number of opening and closing times than the low frequency winning mode, the opening limit time for one opening is longer, or if the opening limit number for one opening is set to be larger. Good.

  However, in order to clarify the difference in privilege between the high-frequency winning mode and the low-frequency winning mode, in the opening / closing execution mode according to the low-frequency winning mode, the winning to the variable winning device 22 does not substantially occur. It may be configured. For example, in the high-frequency winning mode, the product of the launch period of the game ball and the open limit number is set shorter than the open limit time for one release, while in the low-frequency winning mode, It is good also as a structure which sets the product of the launching period of a game ball and the open limit number longer than open limit time. In addition, even if the launch interval of the game balls and the opening time of one large winning opening 22a are not the above, in the low frequency winning mode, by setting the latter to be shorter than the former, It is possible to easily realize a configuration in which a winning to the variable winning device 22 does not occur substantially.

  As a support mode for the electric combination 24a of the lower working port 24, the electric combination 24a of the lower working port 24 is compared when the game ball is continuously being fired in the same manner with respect to the game area. Low frequency support mode (low frequency support state or low frequency guide state) and high frequency support mode (high frequency support state or high frequency guide state) so that the frequency of the open state per unit time is relatively high or low. And are set.

  Specifically, in the low-frequency support mode and the high-frequency support mode, the probability of winning the power combination open state in the electric combination release lottery using the electric combination release counter C4 is the same (for example, both 4/5) However, in the high frequency support mode, the number of times that the electric utility item 24a is opened is set more frequently than in the low frequency support mode. The time is set longer. In this case, in the high-frequency support mode, when the electrified open state is selected and the open state of the electric accessory 24a occurs a plurality of times, the closed state from the end of one open state until the next open state is started The time is set shorter than one opening time. Furthermore, in the high frequency support mode, a shorter time is secured as a minimum secured time after the next electric character opening lottery is performed after the electric character object opening lottery is performed than in the low frequency support mode. Is set to be selected.

  As described above, in the high frequency support mode, there is a higher probability of winning a prize to the lower working port 24 than in the low frequency support mode. In other words, in the low frequency support mode, there is a higher probability that a prize will be generated in the upper operating port 23 than in the lower operating port 24, but in the high frequency support mode, the lower operating port 24 is connected to the lower operating port 24. The probability of winning a prize increases. When a prize is awarded to the lower operating port 24, a predetermined number of game balls are paid out. Therefore, in the high frequency support mode, the player plays a game while not reducing the number of possessed balls so much. be able to.

  The configuration for increasing the frequency at which the high frequency support mode is set to the power release state per unit time as compared with the low frequency support mode is not limited to the above-described configuration, for example, the electric component release lottery It is good also as a structure which makes high the probability that it will be elected in the electric character open state in. In addition, a secured time (for example, on the display part 34 based on a winning to the through gate 25) secured after the next electrification opening lottery is performed after the first electrification opening lottery is performed. In the configuration in which multiple types of variable display time) are prepared, the short support time is more easily selected in the high frequency support mode or the average secure time is shorter than in the low frequency support mode. May be. Further, the number of times of opening is increased, the opening time is lengthened, and the secured time that is secured when the next electric winning combination opening lottery is performed after the first electric winning combination releasing lottery is shortened (that is, In this case, one condition or any combination of conditions is applied among shortening the average time of the reserved time and increasing the winning probability. Thus, the advantage of the high frequency support mode over the low frequency support mode may be increased.

  The game result distribution destination for the big hit type counter C2 is stored as a distribution table (distribution information group) in a distribution table storage area as a distribution information group storage means in the ROM 53. As such distribution destinations, a normal jackpot result (low-probability-compatible special game result), an explicit 2R probability-variable jackpot result (an explicit high-probability-matched game result or a result that suddenly changes into a probability state), and a 15R probability-variable jackpot result (high probability) Corresponding special game result) is set.

  The normal jackpot result is a jackpot result in which the opening / closing execution mode becomes the high-frequency winning mode, and after the opening / closing execution mode ends, the winning / not-lotting mode becomes the low probability mode and the support mode becomes the high-frequency support mode. However, the high-frequency support mode shifts to the low-frequency support mode when the number of games reaches the end reference number (specifically, 100 times) after the shift. In other words, the normal jackpot result is a jackpot result for shifting the gaming state to the normal jackpot state (special gaming state corresponding to low probability).

  The explicit 2R probability variation jackpot result is a jackpot result in which the open / close execution mode becomes the low-frequency winning mode, and after the open / close execution mode ends, the success / failure lottery mode becomes the high probability mode and the support mode becomes the high-frequency support mode. . These high-probability mode and high-frequency support mode are continued until the lottery result in the success / failure lottery becomes a big hit state win and shifts to the big win state by that. In other words, the explicit 2R probability variation jackpot result is a jackpot result for shifting the gaming state to the explicit 2R probability variation jackpot state (explicit high probability corresponding gaming state).

  The 15R probability variation jackpot result is a jackpot result in which the opening / closing execution mode becomes the high-frequency winning mode, and after the opening / closing execution mode ends, the success / failure lottery mode becomes the high probability mode and the support mode becomes the high-frequency support mode. These high-probability mode and high-frequency support mode are continued until the lottery result in the success / failure lottery becomes a big hit state win and shifts to the big win state by that. In other words, the 15R probability variation jackpot result is a jackpot result in which the gaming state is shifted to the 15R probability variation jackpot state (a special gaming state corresponding to high probability).

  Note that the normal gaming state in relation to the above gaming states refers to a state in which the winning / losing lottery mode is the low probability mode and the support mode is the low frequency support mode.

  In the distribution table, among the values of the jackpot type counter C2 of “0 to 29”, “0 to 9” corresponds to the normal jackpot result, and “10 to 14” corresponds to the explicit 2R probability variable jackpot result. “15 to 29” corresponds to the 15R probability variation jackpot result.

  As described above, since the explicit 2R probability variation jackpot result is set as the probability variation jackpot result, the modes of the probability variation jackpot result are diversified. That is, when two types of probability variation jackpot results are compared, the advantage for the player is that the 15R probability variation jackpot result, which is the high-frequency winning mode in the opening / closing execution mode and the high-frequency support mode in the support mode, is the highest. Although the mode is the low-frequency winning mode, the support mode has the lowest explicit 2R probability variation jackpot result that is the high-frequency support mode. Thereby, monotonization of a game is suppressed and it becomes possible to raise the attention degree to a game.

  As a kind of probability variation jackpot result, the open / close execution mode becomes the low-frequency winning mode, and after the open / close execution mode ends, the winning / failing lottery mode becomes the high probability mode, and the support mode is maintained in the previous mode. An explicit 2R probability change jackpot result (an explicit high probability corresponding game result or a result of a latent probability change state) may be included. In this case, further diversification of the probabilistic jackpot results is achieved.

  Furthermore, as a kind of losing result in the winning / losing lottery, there may be included a special losing result that shifts to the opening / closing execution mode of the low-frequency winning mode and that does not shift to the winning / losing lottery mode and the support mode after the completion. . In the configuration in which both the above-described non-explicit 2R probability variation jackpot result and the special outlier result are set, the switching execution mode shifts to the low-frequency winning mode, and the support mode is maintained in the previous mode. However, if one of the results of non-explicit 2R probability change jackpot or special outage occurs in the normal gaming state, for example, it will be It is possible to cause the player to predict which result actually corresponds to.

  For example, the reach random number counter C3 is incremented one by one within a range of 0 to 238, for example, and reaches a maximum value and then returns to 0. The reach random number counter C3 is periodically updated and stored in the reserved ball storage area 54b at the timing when the game ball wins the upper operation port 23 or the lower operation port 24.

  Here, in this pachinko machine 10, an expected effect is set as a kind of display effect in the symbol display device 31. Expected effects include a symbol display device 31 that can perform variable display (or variable display) of symbols (patterns), and variable display in game times where the open / close execution mode of the variable winning device 22 is the high-frequency winning mode. In the gaming machine in which the subsequent stop display result is a special display result, the stage before the stop display result is derived and displayed after the variable display (or variable display) of the symbol (picture) on the symbol display device 31 is started, This means a display state for making the player think that a variable display state is likely to result in a special display result.

  In the expected effect, two types are set: the reach display and a notice display for expecting the occurrence of reach display or the generation of a special display result at a stage before the reach display occurs.

  In the reach display, a combination of jackpot symbols corresponding to the occurrence of the high-frequency winning mode is obtained by stopping and displaying symbols for some of the symbol sequences displayed on the display screen of the symbol display device 31. A display state is displayed in which combinations of reach symbols that may be established are displayed, and in that state, symbols in the remaining symbol rows are displayed in a variable manner. In addition, in the state where the combination of reach symbols is displayed as described above, the variation display of symbols is performed in the remaining symbol columns, and a reach effect is performed by displaying a predetermined character or the like as a moving image in the background image. In addition, there are those that perform a reach effect by displaying a predetermined character or the like as a moving image on substantially the entire display screen after reducing or not displaying a combination of reach symbols.

  More specifically, the reach display related to the symbol variation display is performed in order to generate a high-frequency winning mode on a preset active line in the display screen of the symbol display device 31 as a stage before the symbol variation display is terminated. A reach line is formed by stopping and displaying a reach symbol combination for which a corresponding jackpot symbol combination may be established, and in the situation where the reach line is formed, a symbol variation display is displayed by the final stop symbol sequence. Is to do.

  The display contents of FIG. 3 will be described in detail. In the state where the symbol variation display is first terminated in the upper symbol row Z1 and the symbol variation display is terminated in the lower symbol row Z3, any effective state is displayed. A reach line is formed by stopping and displaying the main symbols having the same numbers on the lines L1 to L5, and in the situation where the reach line is formed, the symbol variation display is performed in the middle symbol row Z2. Reach display. When the high-frequency winning mode occurs, the main symbol with the same number as the main symbol forming the reach line is stopped and displayed on the reach line in the middle symbol row Z2. The symbol variation display is terminated.

  In the notice display, the symbol display on the display screen of the symbol display device 31 is started in a situation where the symbols are variably displayed in all the symbol columns Z1 to Z3 after the symbol variation display is started, or in some symbol columns. In a situation where the symbols are variably displayed in a plurality of symbol rows, a mode in which a character is displayed separately from the symbols on the symbol rows Z1 to Z3 is included. Moreover, what makes a background image the predetermined aspect different from the previous aspect, and what makes the symbol on the symbol sequence Z1-Z3 the predetermined aspect different from the previous aspect are also included. Such a notice display can occur in any game times when reach display is performed and when reach display is not performed, but the case where reach display is performed is higher than the case where reach display is not performed. It is set to occur with probability.

  The reach display is executed regardless of the value of the reach random number counter C3 in the game times that shift to the opening / closing execution mode. In the game times that do not shift to the opening / closing execution mode, the reach random number counter C3 obtained at a predetermined timing is referred to the reach table stored in the reach table storage area of the ROM 53 in response to the occurrence of the reach display. It is executed when On the other hand, the determination as to whether or not to perform the notice display is performed not by the main controller 50 but by the sound emission controller 60.

  The variation type counter CS is, for example, incremented by 1 within a range of 0 to 198, and returns to 0 after reaching the maximum value. The variation type counter CS is used when the MPU 52 determines the variation display time (display duration) in the main display unit 33 and the symbol variation display time (display duration) in the symbol display device 31. The variation type counter CS is updated once every time a normal process to be described later is executed once, and is repeatedly updated even within the remaining time in the normal process. Then, the buffer value of the variation type counter CS is acquired at the time of determining the variation pattern at the start of variation display in the main display unit 33 and at the time of symbol variation start by the symbol display device 31. In determining the variable display time, the variable display time table (variable display time information group) stored in advance in the variable display time table storage area (variable display time information storage means) of the ROM 53 is referred to.

  The electric accessory release counter C4 is, for example, configured to increment one by one within a range of 0 to 250 and return to 0 after reaching the maximum value. The electric accessory release counter C4 is periodically updated and stored in the electric utility reservation area 54c at the timing when a game ball wins the through gate 25. Then, at a predetermined timing, a lottery is performed as to whether or not to control the electric accessory 24a to the open state based on the stored value of the electric accessory release counter C4.

  A payout control device 55 is connected to the output side of the MPU 52, and a power source and launch control device 57 is connected. For example, a payout ball command is transmitted to the payout control device 55 based on a winning determination result to the winning-corresponding winning portion. The payout control device 55 performs payout control of prize balls and rental balls by the payout device 56 based on the prize ball command received from the main control device 50. A firing permission command is transmitted to the power source and firing control device 57 based on the firing handle 41 being operated. Based on the launch permission command received from the main controller 50, the power supply and launch control device 57 drives the game ball launch mechanism 58 to launch the game ball toward the game area.

  Further, the main display unit 33 and the accessory display unit 34 are connected to the output side of the MPU 52, and display control of the main display unit 33 and the accessory display unit 34 is directly performed by the MPU 52. That is, display control of the main display unit 33 is executed in the MPU 52 at each game round. In addition, when the lottery result indicating whether or not the electric accessory 24a is to be opened is clearly indicated, the display control of the accessory display unit 34 is executed in the MPU 52.

  The MPU 52 is connected to a variable winning drive unit that opens and closes the opening / closing door 22b of the variable winning device 22 and an electric combination driving unit that opens and closes the electric combination 24a of the lower working port 24. . That is, in the opening / closing execution mode, the MPU 52 performs drive control of the variable winning drive unit so that the special winning opening 22a is opened and closed. Further, when the electric combination 24a is won, the MPU 52 performs drive control of the electric combination drive unit so that the electric combination 24a is opened and closed.

  Further, the sound emission control device 60 is connected to the output side of the MPU 52, and various commands for effects are transmitted to the sound emission control device 60.

  Here, the process executed by the MPU 52 will be briefly described.

  The MPU 52 repeatedly executes a predetermined game progress process after the power is turned on. In the pachinko machine 10, as the game progress process, the normal process that is repeatedly executed in the first period and the second period that is shorter than the first period are started, and are executed by interrupting the normal process. Timer interrupt processing is set, but the specific processing configuration is arbitrary as long as the progress of the game can be controlled.

  As part of the game progress process, a hold information acquisition process, a game times control process, a game state transition process, and a demonstration display process are set. In the holding information acquisition process, when winning is detected in the upper operating port 23 or the lower operating port 24 in a situation where the holding upper limit number of holding information is not stored in the holding ball storage area 54b, a lottery is performed at that time. A process of storing the combination of the numerical information of the jackpot random number counter C1, the numerical information of the jackpot type counter C2 and the numerical information of the reach random number counter C3 stored in the counter buffer 54a as holding information in the holding ball storage area 54b is executed. The As described above, the hold information is stored in the first hold area RE1 to the fourth hold area RE4 in time series.

  In the game time control process, the data shift process of the reserved ball storage area 54b is performed on the condition that the game information is not being executed or in the open / close execution mode, and the hold information is held and stored in the hold ball storage area 54b. Is executed. Specifically, the data stored in the first holding area RE1 of the holding area RE is shifted to the execution area AE. Thereafter, the data stored in the first reservation area RE1 to the fourth reservation area RE4 is shifted in order to the lower area side. In addition, when the data shift process is executed, a win / fail lottery process, a type determination process, and a game turn start process are executed.

  In the success / failure lottery process, it is determined whether or not the winning combination is determined by referring to the numerical information related to the jackpot random number counter C1 among the holding information shifted to the execution area AE and the success / failure lottery mode corresponding to the current success / failure lottery mode. judge. If it is a big win, a type determination process is further executed. In the type determination process, the jackpot type is specified with reference to the numerical information related to the jackpot type counter C2 and the distribution table among the hold information shifted to the execution area AE.

  In the game round start process, whether or not a reach is generated even if the jackpot is not won by referring to the numerical information related to the reach random number counter C3 among the hold information shifted to the execution area AE and the reach table. Determine. In addition, in the game round start process, the variation display time table corresponding to the presence / absence of the jackpot winning, the jackpot type and the presence / absence of the reach is read from the ROM 53, and the read variation display time table and the variation type counter CS at the timing are read. The change display time of the current game time is determined from the numerical information. Then, in the game turn starting process, the main display unit 33 starts the display of the variation of the pattern corresponding to the determined variation display time, the variation command including information on the variation display time, A type command including information on the jackpot type is transmitted to the sound emission control device 60.

  By the way, the variable display time is determined by reading the variable display time table corresponding to the presence / absence of the jackpot, the type of jackpot, and the presence / absence of reach, so the change command includes information on the presence / absence of reach. It can be said that. As will be described later, since the sound emission control device 60 determines the type of reach display according to the change display time, it can be said that the change command includes information on the reach type.

  Further, in the game times control process, the process of changing display is executed during the execution of the game times, and when the change display time determined in the process for starting the change has elapsed, the game display time is changed in the main display unit 33. The change display of the picture is terminated in a state in which the stop result corresponding to the presence / absence of the jackpot winning and the type of jackpot is displayed. In addition, an end command for instructing the sound emission control device 60 to end the game times is transmitted.

  In the gaming state transition process, when the game round corresponding to the big win is completed, the transition process to the opening / closing execution mode is executed, and the opening / closing process of the big winning opening 22a in the variable winning device 22 is started. Various commands for the opening / closing execution mode are transmitted to the sound emission control device 60 when starting the opening / closing execution mode, during the opening / closing execution mode, and when ending the opening / closing execution mode. Further, when the opening / closing execution mode is completed, the success / failure lottery mode transition or the support mode transition is executed in correspondence with the jackpot type related to the game times that triggered the start of the mode.

  In the demonstration display process, a predetermined demonstration start waiting period (for example, 0.1 sec) has elapsed without starting a new game time after the game time has ended in a state where the opening / closing execution mode is not in progress. A process for determining whether or not the process has been performed is executed. In addition, since a power supply to the MPU 52 is started or the pachinko machine 10 is reset, a predetermined demonstration start start period (for example, 3 sec) has elapsed without newly starting a game play. A process for determining whether or not the process has been performed is executed. If it is determined that the time has elapsed, a command for demonstration display is transmitted to the sound emission control device 60.

  The demonstration display refers to a start waiting effect displayed on the display screen G of the symbol display device 31 when a predetermined start waiting period has elapsed. In the demo image, an image in which the symbols stopped and displayed on the symbol rows Z1 to Z3 are performing a predetermined operation is displayed. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the symbols perform a predetermined operation. It may be configured such that a maker name, a model name, or a moving image with a predetermined character is displayed after or instead of displaying a displayed image. Further, in the configuration in which the demonstration display is performed by the animation of the symbols that are variably displayed on the symbol rows Z1 to Z3, the symbol that is finally stopped and displayed in the immediately preceding game round may be used as the symbol. In this case, the demonstration display can be diversified.

<Audio emission control device 60>
Next, the sound emission control device 60 will be described.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the sound emission control device 60 includes a sound emission control board 61 on which an MPU 62 is mounted. The MPU 62 includes a ROM 63 that stores various control programs executed by the MPU 62 and fixed value data, and a memory that temporarily stores various data when the control program stored in the ROM 63 is executed. A RAM 64, an interrupt circuit, a timer circuit, a data input / output circuit, various counter circuits as a random number generator, and the like are incorporated.

  The ROM 63 is a storage means (that is, a non-volatile storage means) that can be randomly accessed when reading a control program or fixed value data and does not require external power supply for storage retention. Specifically, a NOR type cache memory is used. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the type of memory used as the ROM 63 is arbitrary as long as random access is possible. In addition, a configuration in which the control and calculation portion, the ROM 63, and the RAM 64 are integrated into one chip is not essential, and each function may be mounted as a separate chip, and some functions may be configured as separate chips. It is good also as the structure mounted.

  The MPU 62 is provided with an input port and an output port. An effect operating device 48 and a main control device 50 are connected to the input side of the MPU 62, and various light emitting units 35, 36, 44, a speaker unit 45 and a display control device 70 are connected to the output side of the MPU 62. Yes.

  The MPU 62 recognizes that it is necessary to start an effect for game times by receiving the variation command transmitted from the main control device 50, and executes an effect start process for game times. In addition, by receiving the end command transmitted from the main control device 50, it is recognized that it is necessary to end the effect for the game turn, and the game turn effect end process is executed. Also, by receiving the various jackpot presentation commands transmitted from the main control device 50, it is recognized that the jackpot presentation needs to be started or advanced, and the jackpot presentation process is executed. Further, by receiving the demonstration display command transmitted from the main control device 50, it is recognized that the demonstration display needs to be started, and the demonstration display processing is executed.

  Note that the MPU 62 receiving a command from the main control device 50 is not limited to a configuration for directly receiving a command from the main control device 50, and includes a configuration for receiving a command relayed to a relay board.

  In the game turn production start process, based on both the change command and the type command, the change display time grasp processing for grasping the change display time (display duration) of the corresponding game turn and the presence / absence of reach display are grasped. A reach display grasping process, a jackpot result occurrence grasping process for grasping presence / absence of a jackpot result, and a jackpot type grasping process for grasping a jackpot type when a jackpot result occurs are executed. Further, based on the grasp results in the reach display grasping process, the jackpot result occurrence grasping process, and the jackpot type grasping process, the display effect for determining the type of display effect to be performed on the display screen G of the symbol display device 31 in this game round. In addition to executing the grasping process, the symbol type grasping process for determining the kind of the symbol to be finally stopped and displayed on the display screen G of the symbol display device 31 in this game round is executed. Then, based on the results of each of these grasping processes, a display control device includes a variation pattern command including information on the variation display time and information on the type of display effect, and a symbol designating command including information on the type of symbol to be finally stopped and displayed. 70.

  In addition, in the game turn production start process, in addition to the above-described grasping processes, a notice display lottery process for determining whether or not to perform a notice display is executed. In this case, in the lottery process, the type lottery for the notice display is also executed. If it is determined that the notice display has been generated, a notice command including information on the type of notice display is transmitted to the display control device 70.

  Further, in the game start effect starting process, the game light display light emission table and the game turn sound table are read from the ROM 63 based on the processing results of the above processes. The display light emission table for game times defines the light emission mode of the display light emitting unit 44 during the progress of the corresponding game times. In addition, an output mode from the speaker unit 45 in the progress process of the corresponding game round is defined by the game round voice table.

  In the game round effect end process, the light emission control of the display light emitting unit 44 and the sound output control of the speaker unit 45 in the current game round are terminated. Further, in the game turn effect end process, an end command including information for ending the game turn effect is transmitted to the display control device 70.

  In the jackpot presentation process, based on the various commands for the jackpot presentation received, the presentation mode at the opening, at each round, between each round, and at the ending is grasped, and the jackpot presentation corresponding to the grasped result Is sent to the display control device 70. Further, based on the grasped result, the display light emission table for the jackpot effect and the sound table for the jackpot effect are read from the ROM 63, and the light emission mode of the display light emitting unit 44 and the sound output mode from the speaker unit 45 during the jackpot effect. Is specified.

  In the demonstration display processing, the demonstration display presentation mode is grasped based on the received demonstration display command, and the demonstration display command corresponding to the grasped result is transmitted to the display control device 70. Further, based on the grasped result, the display light emission table for demonstration display and the sound table for demonstration display are read from the ROM 63, and the light emission mode of the display light emitting unit 44 and the voice output mode from the speaker unit 45 during the demonstration display. Is specified.

  The processing executed by the MPU 62 based on the command transmitted from the main controller 50 includes processing for controlling the light emission of the first hold light emitting unit 35 and the second hold light emitting unit 36 in addition to the above processing. included.

  Further, the MPU 62 recognizes that the production operation device 48 is operated by receiving an operation signal transmitted from the production operation device 48 based on the operation of the production operation device 48 being operated. Then, the operation handling process is executed. Further, even when the operated state is released, it is recognized by the falling edge of the operation signal, and the operation corresponding process is executed.

  Here, as a part of the effect corresponding to the operation of the effect operation device 48, an effect is performed in which the image displayed on the symbol display device 31 is shifted to a different position on the two-dimensional plane. A plurality of positions, specifically, two positions are set as the shiftable positions. Correspondingly, the operation unit of the production operation device 48 is provided, for example, as a cross key or an operation lever that can be rotated in a plurality of directions so that the plurality of positions can be individually designated. An operation signal corresponding to each operation is transmitted from the device 48. In the operation handling process, an operation mode is specified according to the type of the operation signal, and an operation generation command including information that the production operation device 48 is operated and information on the operation mode is transmitted to the display control device 70. Further, in the operation handling process, an operation release command is transmitted to the display control device 70 when the operation of the operation unit is released. Further, in the operation handling process, in addition to the transmission of the command, the light emission mode of the display light emitting unit 44 and the sound output mode from the speaker unit 45 are defined so as to correspond to the operation of the effect operating device 48. .

<Display control device 70>
Next, the display control device 70 will be described.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the display control device 70 includes a display control board 71 on which a display CPU 72, a work RAM 73, a memory module 74, a VRAM 75, and a video display processor (VDP) 76 are mounted. .

  The display CPU 72 has a function as a main control unit in the display control device 70, and reads (fetches), interprets (decodes), and executes a control program and the like. Specifically, the display CPU 72 is connected to an input port 77 mounted on the display control board 71 via a bus, and various commands transmitted from the sound emission control device 60 are input to the display CPU 72 through the input port 77. Is done. Note that the display CPU 72 receiving a command from the sound emission control device 60 is not limited to a structure that directly receives a command from the sound light emission control device 60, and includes a structure that receives a command relayed to the relay board. It is.

  The display CPU 72 is connected to the work RAM 73, the memory module 74, and the VRAM 75 via a bus. Based on the command received from the sound emission control device 60, the display CPU 72 stores various data stored in the memory module 74 in the work RAM 73 and the VRAM 75. The transfer instruction to transfer is performed. Further, the display CPU 72 is connected to the VDP 76 via a bus, and performs a drawing instruction for causing the symbol display device 31 to output an image signal based on a command received from the sound emission control device 60. Hereinafter, the memory module 74, the work RAM 73, the VRAM 75, and the VDP 76 will be described.

  The memory module 74 stores control data (control information) including a control program and fixed value data in advance, and sprite data such as symbols and characters displayed on the symbol display device 31, background data, and moving images. It is a storage means for storing various image data (image information) including image data and the like in advance. The memory module 74 includes a non-volatile semiconductor memory that does not require external power supply for memory retention, and in detail, a NAND flash memory is used as the semiconductor memory. Incidentally, although the storage capacity is 4 Gbits, this storage capacity is arbitrary as long as the control in the display control device 70 is executed well. Further, the memory module 74 is used as a non-write and read-only memory (ROM) when the pachinko machine 10 is used.

  Here, each sprite data includes at least a combination of bitmap format data that defines the outline and pattern of the character and a color palette table that is referred to when determining the display color at each pixel of the bitmap image. Yes. The background data is stored and held as JPEG format data in a state where still image data is compressed. The moving image data will be described in detail later.

  The work RAM 73 is storage means for temporarily storing the control data read and transferred from the memory module 74 and temporarily storing flags and the like. The work RAM 73 includes a volatile semiconductor memory that requires external power supply for storage and retention, and in detail, a DRAM is used as the semiconductor memory. However, it is not limited to DRAM, and other RAM such as SRAM may be used. The storage capacity is 1 Gbit, but the storage capacity is arbitrary as long as the control in the display control device 70 is executed well. The work RAM 73 is used for both reading and writing when the pachinko machine 10 is used.

  Based on a data transfer instruction from the display CPU 72 to the memory module 74, control data is transferred from the memory module 74 to the work RAM 73. In this case, the control data is transferred in advance until the processing execution timing in the display CPU 72 corresponding to the control data comes. The display CPU 72 reads the control data transferred to the work RAM 73 into an internal memory area (register group) as necessary, and executes various processes.

  Incidentally, when the work RAM 73 is compared by reading data of the same capacity, the work RAM 73 is used that has a faster reading speed (transfer speed) than a NAND flash memory 102 described later. In other words, when the work RAM 73 is compared by reading data of the same capacity, a work RAM 73 having a shorter period of time than that of the NAND flash memory 102 is used.

  The VRAM 75 is a storage means for temporarily storing various data necessary for image output to the symbol display device 31. The VRAM 75 includes a volatile semiconductor memory that requires external power supply for storage and holding, and in detail, an SDRAM is used as the semiconductor memory. However, it is not limited to SDRAM, and other RAM such as DRAM, SRAM or dual port RAM may be used. The storage capacity is 2 Gbits, but the storage capacity is arbitrary as long as the control in the display control device 70 is satisfactorily executed. The VRAM 75 is used for both reading and writing when the pachinko machine 10 is used.

  The VRAM 75 includes a development buffer 81, and image data is transferred from the memory module 74 to the development buffer 81 based on a data transfer instruction from the display CPU 72 to the memory module 74. In this case, the image data is transferred in advance until the execution timing of processing in the VDP 76 using the image data. The VRAM 75 is provided with a frame buffer 82 in which drawing data is created by the VDP 76.

  Incidentally, when the VRAM 75 is compared by reading data of the same capacity, a VRAM 75 whose reading speed (transfer speed) is faster than a NAND flash memory 102 described later is used. In other words, when the VRAM 75 is compared by reading data of the same capacity, a VRAM 75 whose period required for the reading is shorter than that of the NAND flash memory 102 is used. The VRAM 75 may be built in the VDP 76.

  The VDP 76 is an image generation device that performs drawing on the symbol display device 31 by specifically processing the data stored and held in the development buffer 81 based on a drawing instruction from the display CPU 72. Yes, it is a kind of drawing circuit that operates an image processing device 31b incorporated in the design display device 31 so as to drive and control the liquid crystal display unit 31a. Since the VDP 76 is an IC chip, it is also called a “drawing chip”, and the substance of the VDP 76 should be said to be a microcomputer chip with a drawing-dedicated firmware.

  Specifically, the VDP 76 includes a control unit 91, a register 92, a moving picture decoder 93, and a display circuit 94. These circuits are connected to each other via a bus, and are also connected to an I / F 95 for the display CPU 72 and an I / F 96 for the VRAM 75.

  The VDP 76 stores a drawing list as drawing instruction information transmitted from the display CPU 72 in the register 92. When the drawing list is stored in the register 92, the control unit 91 starts a program according to the drawing list and executes a predetermined process. In addition, it is good also as a structure by which all the control programs for the control part 91 to operate | move are provided with a drawing list, the memory which memorize | stored the control program previously is built in the control part 91, the content of the said control program and a drawing list, and Thus, the control unit 91 may execute a predetermined process. Alternatively, the control program may be read from the memory module 74 in advance.

  As the processing described above, the control unit 91 creates drawing data for one frame in the frame buffer 82 using (or processing) the image data developed in the development buffer 81 of the VRAM 75. The drawing data for one frame is the data necessary to display an image at one update timing in a configuration in which the image on the display screen G of the symbol display device 31 is updated at a predetermined update timing. That means.

  Here, the frame buffer 82 is provided with a plurality of frame regions 82a and 82b. Specifically, a first frame region 82a and a second frame region 82b are provided. Each of the frame regions 82a and 82b is set to a capacity capable of storing drawing data for one frame. Specifically, each of the frame regions 82a and 82b includes a large number of unit areas (unit setting regions) corresponding to the dots (pixels) of the liquid crystal display unit 31a (that is, the display screen G) at a predetermined magnification. ing. Each unit area has a storage capacity capable of storing data for specifying which color to display. More specifically, a full color method is employed, and 256 colors can be set for each of R (red), G (green), and B (blue) in each dot. Corresponding to this, in each unit area, 1 byte (8 bits) is assigned to each RGB color. That is, each unit area has a storage capacity of at least 3 bytes.

  Note that the present invention is not limited to the full-color method, and for example, in a configuration that can display only 256 colors in each dot, the storage capacity required to store color information in each unit area may be 1 byte.

  Since the first frame area 82a and the second frame area 82b are provided in the frame buffer 82, drawing on the symbol display device 31 is executed using drawing data created in one frame area. The creation of drawing data to be used in the future is executed for other frame regions. That is, a double buffer system is adopted as the frame buffer 82.

  In the display circuit 94, an image signal corresponding to each dot of the liquid crystal display unit 31a is generated based on the drawing data created in the first frame region 82a or the second frame region 82b, and the image signal is sent to the display circuit 94. The signal is output to the symbol display device 31 via the connected output port 78. The display circuit 94 also outputs a synchronizing signal such as a horizontal synchronizing signal or a vertical synchronizing signal. The display circuit 94 is provided with a scaler 97 and an image signal output unit 98 in order to generate and output the image signal. The scaler 97 and the image signal output unit 98 will be described in detail later.

  The moving picture decoder 93 decodes the moving image data transferred to the expansion buffer 81 of the VRAM 75. The contents of the process will be described in detail later.

<Specific Configuration of Memory Module 74>
Next, a specific configuration of the memory module 74 will be described.

  FIG. 6 is a block diagram for explaining a hardware configuration of the memory module 74. As shown in FIG. 6, the memory module 74 is configured by packaging the controller 101 and the NAND flash memory 102 into one package. The NAND flash memory 102 is provided with a memory cell array. In the memory cell array, the control program area 103 storing the control program data of the display CPU 72 and the symbol display device 31 display an image. An image data area 104 storing image data to be used is provided.

  The controller 101 includes a main body side I / F 111 that transmits / receives data to / from the display CPU 72 that is the transfer instruction source and the work RAM 73 and VRAM 75 that is the data transfer destination, and a storage side I / O that transmits / receives data to / from the NAND flash memory 102. / F112, a controller CPU 113, which is a control unit that performs data control processing in the controller 101 and physical block management processing of the NAND flash memory 102, a control ROM 114, a control RAM 115, and a NAND flash based on a transfer instruction from the controller CPU 113 A transfer execution circuit 116 that reads data from the memory 102, a cache memory 117 that temporarily stores data read by the transfer execution circuit 116, and the NAND flash memory 10 An error correction circuit 118 for performing error detection and correction of errors detected in data read from, and a.

  In general, the NAND flash memory 102 is used avoiding a block including a defect in the memory cell array. And the presence and location of this defective block differ from one solid to another. Accordingly, it is necessary to associate the logical address transmitted from the display CPU 72 to the memory module 74 with each page of the physical block in the NAND flash memory 102, and the association is executed by the controller CPU 113.

  More specifically, the control ROM 114 stores in advance an address management table (address management information group) for associating a logical address with an address of each page of the physical block. The address designation command received from the display CPU 72 is temporarily stored in the address designation buffer of the control RAM 115. When an address designation command is stored in the control RAM 115, the controller CPU 113 reads the address management table from the control ROM 114 and grasps the page address of the physical block corresponding to the designated logical address. Then, the transfer execution circuit 116 transfers the data so that the controller CPU 113 issues a transfer instruction to the transfer execution circuit 116 and the data at the physical address related to the transfer instruction is transferred from the NAND flash memory 102 to the cache memory 117. Processing is executed. The data transferred to the cache memory 117 is transferred to the work RAM 73 or VRAM 75.

  Incidentally, as the control ROM 114, a memory capable of reading data by random access such as a mask ROM or a NOR flash memory is used. Further, the cache memory 117 is used that has a read speed (transfer speed) higher than that of the NAND flash memory 102 when compared by reading data of the same capacity. In other words, the cache memory 117 is used in which the period required for the read is shorter than that of the NAND flash memory 102 when compared by reading the data of the same capacity. Specifically, it has a volatile semiconductor memory that requires an external power supply for memory retention, and in detail, a DRAM is used as the semiconductor memory. However, it is not limited to DRAM, and other RAM such as SRAM may be used.

  The memory module 74 is provided with a boot memory 119 that stores boot data for initial startup in the display CPU 72 in advance. As the boot memory 119, a mask ROM is used so that random access is possible. When compared with data read of the same capacity, the read memory (transfer speed) is faster than the NAND flash memory 102. It is used. In other words, as the boot memory 119, a memory having a shorter period than that of the NAND flash memory 102 when the same capacity data is read is used.

  The boot memory 119 is not limited to the mask ROM, and may be a NOR flash memory as long as the data read speed is faster than that of the NAND flash memory 102, and may be an internal power source such as a battery. A DRAM unit or an SRAM unit including

  The storage capacity of the boot memory 119 is set to be smaller than the storage capacity of the NAND flash memory 102. Specifically, the storage capacity is the same, substantially the same as or similar to the storage capacity for one page in the NAND flash memory 102. The boot memory 119 stores boot data for initial startup in advance. When the display CPU 72 executes processing at the time of initial startup, data from the boot memory 119 instead of the NAND flash memory 102 is stored. Is read out. As the boot data for initial startup, an instruction code for initial setting of the display CPU 72 and the VDP 76 and an instruction code for transferring data stored in the NAND flash memory 102 to the work RAM 73 and VRAM 75 are set.

  Here, data transfer processing executed by the controller 101 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. The data transfer process is started when an unprocessed address designation command is stored in the control RAM 115.

  First, in step S101, it is determined whether or not the current address designation is related to access to the boot memory 119. Here, the display CPU 72 includes an initial transmission circuit so as to transmit an address designation command relating to access to the boot memory 119 to the controller 101 when supply of operating power is started. Specifically, the initial transmission circuit is configured to transmit an address designation command in which all bits are “1” via a bus that electrically connects the display CPU 72 and the memory module 74. . The address designation command in which all the bits are “1” corresponds to an access command to the boot memory 119, and the controller 101 relates to an access to the boot memory 119 when the command is received. Judge that there is.

  Note that the address designation command related to the access to the boot memory 119 does not need to have the above data configuration, and may be a command in which all bits are “0”, for example. Further, as an electrical wiring for electrically connecting the display CPU 72 and the memory module 74, a dedicated electrical wiring is provided separately from the electrical wiring for transmitting other addressing commands, and the operating power to the display CPU 72 is reduced. When the supply is started, the signal output to the dedicated electric wiring may be started. In this case, when the signal output from the dedicated electric wiring is started, the controller 101 is assumed to have received a data transfer instruction stored in the boot memory 119 and starts to transfer the data. Also good.

  If it is related to access to the boot memory 119, after executing the process of transferring the boot data in the boot memory 119 to the display CPU 72 in step S102, the data transfer process is terminated. As a result, the boot data is read in the display CPU 72.

  On the other hand, if it is not related to access to the boot memory 119 (step S101: NO), that is, if it is related to access to the NAND flash memory 102, the process proceeds to step S103. Incidentally, although details will be described later, the execution timing of the transfer instruction in this case is a timing before the timing at which the program data and image data stored in the NAND flash memory 102 are required by the display CPU 72 and the VDP 76. And transfer to the VRAM 75 is completed.

  In step S103, it is determined whether or not the address is a target address for prediction transfer. The predicted transfer target address is a physical address corresponding to a logical address for one page continuous to the logical address when a logical address for one page is designated from the display CPU 72.

  If it is not the target address for the predicted transfer (step S103: NO), in step S104, the physical address corresponding to the logical address to be specified this time is grasped using the address management table. With this process, even if the NAND flash memory 102 is likely to generate a defective block when data is written, the physical address can be associated with the logical address satisfactorily.

  In the subsequent step S105, the controller CPU 113 issues a transfer instruction to the transfer execution circuit 116 so that the data stored at the grasped physical address is transferred from the NAND flash memory 102 to the cache memory 117. As a result, transfer of the data to the cache memory 117 is started.

  In subsequent step S106, it is determined whether or not the transfer to the cache memory 117 is completed, and the determination process is repeated until the transfer is completed. When the transfer to the cache memory 117 is completed, in step S107, a data transfer instruction related to the target address of the predicted transfer is executed. As a result, the transfer execution circuit 116 starts transferring the data stored in the physical address corresponding to the logical address continuous to the logical address of the data that has been transferred immediately before, to the cache memory 117.

  In this case, the cache memory 117 has a storage capacity capable of simultaneously storing data for a plurality of pages, specifically, two pages. When the transfer execution circuit 116 transfers the data related to the target address of the predicted transfer to the cache memory 117, the transfer execution circuit 116 reads the data at the previous address that triggered the prediction and has been transferred to the cache memory 117. The data related to the target address of the predicted transfer is transferred to an area different from the area where the data is stored so as not to be erased. As a result, it is possible to prevent data being transferred from the cache memory 117 to the work RAM 73 or VRAM 75 from being erased when the data related to the target address of the predicted transfer is transferred.

  In the subsequent step S108, a process of transferring the data determined to have been transferred to the cache memory 117 in step S106 to the side of the work RAM 73 and VRAM 75 set as the transfer destination target is executed. In this case, when transmitting the address designation command, the display CPU 72 transmits the data transfer destination RAM and the information of the transfer destination address as a separate command included in the address designation command. Therefore, in step S108, the data is transferred to the designated transfer destination RAM and to the transfer destination address.

  Thereafter, in step S109, it is determined whether or not the data transfer from the cache memory 117 to the transfer destination target is completed, and the determination process is repeated until the transfer is completed. During this period, the data transfer request may not be accepted. When the data transfer to the transfer destination target is completed (step S109: YES), this data transfer process is terminated.

  If it is determined in step S103 that the current address designation is related to the target address of the predicted transfer, the process proceeds to step S106 without executing the processes in steps S104 and S105. Then, when the transfer of the data related to the address designation to the cache memory 117 is completed (step S106: YES), the processing of step S107 to step S109 is executed, and this data transfer processing is terminated.

  The state of data transfer will be described with reference to the timing chart of FIG.

  8A shows a state in which data is transferred from the boot memory 119, FIG. 8A shows a state of a read request from the display CPU 72, and FIG. 8B shows a state in which the data is transferred from the boot memory 119. It is a state of data transfer. FIG. 8B shows how data in the NAND flash memory 102 is transferred, FIG. 8C shows a read request from the display CPU 72, and FIG. FIG. 8E shows a state of data transfer to the memory 117, and FIG. 8E shows a state of data transfer from the cache memory 117.

  First, a case where data is transferred from the boot memory 119 will be described.

  As shown in FIG. 8A, an address designation command is transmitted from the display CPU 72 at the timing t1, and the controller CPU 113 recognizes reception of the address designation command at the timing t2.

  Thereafter, at the timing of t3, the controller CPU 113 recognizes that the boot data in the boot memory 119 is designated as a read target, and data transfer from the boot memory 119 is started. In this case, the period from when the controller CPU 113 recognizes the read request from the display CPU 72 to when the data transfer is started is T1. Thereafter, the data transfer is completed at timing t4.

  Next, a case where data is transferred from the NAND flash memory 102 will be described.

  As shown in FIG. 8B, an address designation command is transmitted from the display CPU 72 at the timing t5, and the controller CPU 113 recognizes reception of the address designation command at the timing t6.

  Thereafter, at the timing of t7, the controller CPU 113 recognizes that the data of the NAND flash memory 102 is designated as a read target, and grasps the physical address corresponding to the designated logical address. In the transfer execution circuit 116, pages corresponding to the physical address are sequentially recognized, and data transfer to the cache memory 117 is started. In this case, by recognizing the physical address corresponding to the logical address and performing sequential recognition instead of random access, the period T2 from the timing t6 to the timing t7 is from the timing t2 to the timing t3. It is longer than the period T1.

  Thereafter, when the data transfer to the cache memory 117 is completed at the timing of t8, the data transfer from the cache memory 117 to the transfer target RAM is started. In this case, the period from when the controller CPU 113 recognizes the read request from the display CPU 72 to when the data transfer to the transfer destination target RAM is started is T3, and the data transfer from the boot memory 119 is performed. It is longer than the period T1 required to start.

  Thereafter, the transfer of the data corresponding to the target address of the predicted transfer to the cache memory 117 is started at the timing t9 during the data transfer to the RAM. In this case, the controller CPU 113 only has to specify the physical address corresponding to the continuous logical address in the transfer execution circuit 116, so that the address of the defective block is interposed between the physical addresses corresponding to the continuous logical address. Even if it is, the time required for recognizing the physical address can be shortened by associating these continuities in advance as compared with the case of recognizing the physical address from the address designation command. Note that an image data group for executing a predetermined effect such as super reach display is stored across a plurality of physical blocks.

  Thereafter, the data transfer from the cache memory 117 to the transfer destination target RAM is completed at the timing of t10. Then, a new address designation command is transmitted from the display CPU 72. Incidentally, the NOR type flash memory is provided with an address terminal and a data input / output terminal separately, but the memory module 74 having the NAND type flash memory 102 has an address terminal, a data input / output terminal, Are not provided separately. Therefore, after data transfer from the cache memory 117 is performed, an address designation command is transmitted from the display CPU 72.

  Thereafter, the transfer of the data related to the predicted transfer to the cache memory 117 is completed at the timing of t11, and the controller CPU 113 recognizes the reception of a new address designation command from the display CPU 72 at the timing of t12. Since the logical address designated by the address designation command corresponds to the logical address of the data subject to the predicted transfer, the cache memory for the data subject to the predicted transfer at the subsequent timing t13. Transfer from 117 to the transfer target RAM is started.

  In this case, the period from when the controller CPU 113 recognizes the read request from the display CPU 72 to when the data transfer is started is T4. As described above, the data related to the predicted transfer is started while the data transfer from the cache memory 117 to the RAM is being performed, and the start timing is before the read request from the display CPU 72 is performed. It is the timing. Therefore, the period T4 is shorter than the period T3 required until the data transfer is started when data is read from the NAND flash memory 102 without performing the predictive transfer. Incidentally, the period T4 is shorter than the period T1 required until the data transfer from the boot memory 119 is started. However, the period T4 is not limited to this and may be longer than the period T1. Thereafter, the data transfer related to the predictive transfer is completed at the timing of t14.

  When the data transfer related to the predictive transfer is continuous, a transfer mode in which the period required for starting the data transfer from the cache memory 117 to the RAM in response to the read request from the display CPU 72 is T4. Will be continuous. On the other hand, if the logical address of the data related to the predictive transfer does not match the logical address related to the read request from the display CPU 72, the period required for starting the data transfer from the cache memory 117 to the RAM is T3. Data transfer is performed in the following manner.

  As described above, the NAND flash memory 102 is used as a memory for storing control program data and image data in advance, so that the capacity can be increased while reducing the manufacturing cost compared to the configuration using the NOR flash memory. Can do. Further, by using the NAND flash memory 102, it is possible to repeatedly rewrite the pachinko machine 10 at the development stage, and it is possible to reduce development costs. Recycling is also possible. In particular, the control program data and the image data are not stored in separate memories, but are stored in a single memory module 74 so that the transfer path to the display CPU 72 is made compact. Can do.

  However, the NAND flash memory 102 has a lower data transfer speed than the NOR flash memory due to its specifications. On the other hand, since the boot data for initial startup is stored in advance in the boot memory 119, which requires a faster reading speed than the NAND flash memory 102, supply of operating power to the display CPU 72 is started. If the pachinko machine 10 is reset in some cases, the display CPU 72 can quickly start the initial activation process. Therefore, compared with the configuration in which the program data for initial activation is stored in the NAND flash memory 102, the control in the display CPU 72 can be started smoothly.

  Further, data having logical addresses that are continuous with respect to the data designated as the transfer target from the display CPU 72 is used as data related to the predictive transfer, and the data for one page is transferred from the cache memory 117 to the transfer target target RAM. Data related to the predicted transfer is transferred in advance from the NAND flash memory 102 to the cache memory 117 using the period. As a result, the time required for data transfer of pages with consecutive logical addresses can be shortened. The display CPU 72 reads out the program data transferred in advance to the work RAM 73 and executes the process, and the VDP 76 reads out the image data transferred in advance to the VRAM 75 and executes the process, so that each of the processes is in progress. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the data transfer waiting time from occurring, and it is possible to make each process proceed smoothly.

  The NAND flash memory 102 and the boot memory 119 are packaged as a memory module 74, and data read from the memories 103 and 119 is managed by the controller CPU 113. Accordingly, the display CPU 72 may transmit an address designation command to the controller CPU 113 regardless of whether the data transfer is performed from either the NAND flash memory 102 or the boot memory 119. Thereby, simplification of the structure of the signal path | route which concerns on transmission of the said command is achieved. In addition, since the locations that receive commands from the display CPU 72 in the memory module 74 are collected in the I / F 111, the signal path configuration can be simplified from this point.

  Incidentally, the NAND flash memory 102 needs to input a write command signal to the WE terminal when reading data, but the controller 101 pulls up the HWE (HOST WRITE ENABLE) terminal to which the write command signal is input from the outside. However, the FWE (FLASH WRITE ENABLE) terminal of the controller 101 is connected to the WE terminal of the NAND flash memory 102, so that a substantial write command signal cannot be input from the outside of the controller 101. A pseudo write command signal is input to the type flash memory 102. Therefore, the data in the NAND flash memory 102 can be prevented from being illegally modified while the data can be read from the NAND flash memory 102 satisfactorily.

<Development buffer 81 of work RAM 73 and VRAM 75>
Next, the work RAM 73 and the expansion buffer 81 of the VRAM 75 to which data is transferred in advance from the memory module 74 will be described.

  First, the work RAM 73 will be described.

  In the work RAM 73, as shown in FIG. 4, while there is a possibility that the transferred data may be used even after it has been used once, specifically, power to itself is stored. There is provided a regular area 73a for storing and maintaining the supply and a change area 73b to be overwritten when another data is transferred after use.

  In the regular area 73a, program data necessary for advancing main processing, V interrupt processing, command interrupt processing, and the like, which will be described later, is written. By providing the regular area 73a, it is possible to smoothly start the main process, the V interrupt process, the command interrupt process, and the like that are repeatedly executed at relatively short intervals.

  When it is necessary to temporarily store data exceeding the storage capacity of the change area 73b, all or a part of the data in the regular area 73a is within a range that does not hinder the smooth execution of processing in the display CPU 72. It is good also as a structure erase | eliminated temporarily. In this case, the return of data to the regular area 73a needs to be performed before the start of the corresponding process.

  In the change area 73b, program data necessary to execute a subroutine that is activated as necessary in each of these processes is written. In addition, program data necessary for a subroutine to be executed next during execution of a predetermined subroutine may be transferred to the change area 73b. It is done not to erase. By providing the change area 73b as described above, data transfer can be performed satisfactorily in a configuration in which the storage capacity of the work RAM 73 is suppressed to be smaller than the storage capacity of the memory module 74.

  Incidentally, unlike the RAM 54 of the main controller 50, backup power is not supplied to the work RAM 73. Therefore, when the power supply from the external power supply to the pachinko machine 10 is stopped or when the power supply of the pachinko machine 10 is turned off, the data stored in the work RAM 73 until then is erased or destroyed.

  Next, the expansion buffer 81 of the VRAM 75 will be described.

  In the development buffer 81, while the situation where the transferred image data may be used even after it has been used continues, specifically, the power supply to itself is continued. During use, there are provided a regular area 81a that is stored and held, and a change area 81b that is overwritten when another image data is transferred after use.

  In the regular area 81a, background data and symbol sprite data used when the symbol display on the symbol display device 31 is started are written, and an abnormality notification image is displayed when a predetermined fraud or abnormality is detected. Abnormality notification data used for display is written. By providing the regular area 81a, even if a drawing instruction is suddenly given from the display CPU 72, the VDP 76 can satisfactorily draw an image corresponding to the drawing instruction by accessing the regular area 81a. it can.

  When it is necessary to temporarily store image data that exceeds the storage capacity of the change area 81b, all or one of the regular areas 81a can be used as long as smooth image display on the symbol display device 31 is not hindered. The data of the copy may be temporarily erased. In this case, the restoration of the image data to the regular area 81a needs to be performed before the drawing timing of the corresponding image.

  Production sprite data such as production characters and moving image data are written in the change area 81b. In addition, the image data necessary for the next effect may be transferred to the change area 81b while the predetermined effect is being executed, but the transfer erases the image data required for the effect being executed. It is done so as not to. By providing the change area 81b as described above, data transfer can be performed satisfactorily in a configuration in which the storage capacity of the development buffer 81 is suppressed to be smaller than the storage capacity of the memory module 74.

  Incidentally, unlike the RAM 54 of the main controller 50, backup power is not supplied to the VRAM 75. Therefore, when the power supply from the external power supply to the pachinko machine 10 is stopped or when the power supply of the pachinko machine 10 is turned off, the data stored in the VRAM 75 until then is erased or destroyed.

<Basic Processing in Display CPU 72>
Next, basic processing in the display CPU 72 will be described.

<Main processing>
First, a description will be given of a main process that is started when the supply of operating power to the display CPU 72 is started or when the pachinko machine 10 is reset. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the main process.

  In the main process, an initial setting process is first executed in step S201. In the initial setting process, as shown in the flowchart of FIG. 10, first, a boot data transfer request is made to the memory module 74 in step S301. Here, as described above, this processing is performed by the operation of the initial transmission circuit of the display CPU 72, but this is shown in the processing flow for convenience of explanation. Note that an address indicating the boot memory 119 is written in an area referred to first in the address map of the display CPU 72, and an address designation command may be transmitted to the memory module 74 based on the information.

  Thereafter, in step S302, it is determined whether or not the reading of the boot data is completed, and the determination process is repeated until the reading is completed. When the reading of the boot data is completed, an initialization process is executed in step S303. As the initialization process, initialization of the register of the display CPU 72, the register 92 of the VDP 76, the work RAM 73 and the VRAM 75 is executed.

  In the subsequent step S304, transfer of the latter half data for the initial setting is requested. In other words, the initial setting program data is composed of the initial start data constituting the first half part thereof and the latter half part data subsequent thereto, and the initial start data is set in the boot data. Yes. In the initial start-up data, a data read command for the latter half is set. Thus, by storing only the data from the beginning to the middle of the initial setting program data as boot data in the boot memory 119 in advance, the capacity of data to be stored in the boot memory 119 can be suppressed. Accordingly, the storage capacity of the boot memory 119 can be suppressed.

  Incidentally, if the entire initial setting program data is regarded as boot data, the data stored in advance in the boot memory 119 can be regarded as initial program data, and the latter half of the data is referred to as second program data. Can be considered.

  In the subsequent step S305, an initial adjustment process of the scaler 97 is executed. In the initial adjustment process, when an image signal is output based on the drawing data created in each frame area 82a, 82b of the VRAM 75, the image signal is output in correspondence with the number of dots of the liquid crystal display unit 31a. As described above, a resolution initial adjustment command (resolution initial adjustment information) is transmitted to the VDP 76. The initial adjustment value is adjusted in the design stage of the pachinko machine 10, and the adjustment result is included in the boot data as a resolution initial adjustment command.

  By transmitting a resolution initial adjustment command to the VDP 76, numerical information corresponding to the initial adjustment value is stored in the resolution adjustment area of the scaler 97 in the register 92 of the VDP 76. Thus, when an image signal is output from the VDP 76 to the symbol display device 31, the image signal corresponding to the drawing data is output in a state adjusted to the number of dots of the liquid crystal display unit 31a.

  In subsequent step S306, it is determined whether or not the transfer of the latter half of the data to the change area 73b of the work RAM 73 is completed, and the determination process is repeated until the transfer is completed. Note that the data transfer instruction timing and data capacity of the latter half are set so that the standby time in step S306 is as short as possible or not substantially generated. If the transfer of the latter half of the data is completed, the process proceeds to step S307.

  Incidentally, step S301 is executed on the circuit of the display CPU 72 as described above, and the processing from step S302 to step S306 is executed based on the boot data stored in advance in the boot memory 119, and the processing from step S307 to step S314 is executed. The process is executed based on the latter half of the data.

  In step S307, the memory module 74 is requested to transfer initial image data. Here, the initial image data is the minimum image data for displaying an image related to the system test on the symbol display device 31, and the variation display of symbols is performed on the display screen G before a predetermined background image. Therefore, the data capacity is set smaller than the image data necessary for displaying the image and the image data necessary for displaying the demo image.

  The image relating to the system test refers to an image for confirming that the symbol display device 31 is normal in a manufacturing factory or a game hall of the pachinko machine 10, for example, a red color image on the entire display screen G. Is displayed. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and may be an image displayed by dividing a plurality of colors, or an image displaying the manufacturer name and model name of the pachinko machine 10. The memory module 74 receives the address designation command corresponding to the initial image data from the display CPU 72, thereby starting the transfer of the initial image data to the change area 81 b in the expansion buffer 81 of the VRAM 75.

  In the subsequent step S308, a ground color initial adjustment process is executed. In the initial adjustment process, a background color initial adjustment command (ground color initial adjustment) is applied to the VDP so that numerical information set as initial values in the unit areas of the frame regions 82a and 82b of the VRAM 75 becomes initial numerical information. Information). This initial numerical information is adjusted at the design stage of the pachinko machine 10, and the adjustment result is included in the latter half of the data as a ground color initial adjustment command.

  When the VDP 76 transmits a ground color initial adjustment command, initial numerical value information is stored in the ground color adjustment area in the register 92 of the VDP 76. As a result, when the drawing data is created, the background color is displayed in the dots corresponding to the unit areas that have not been updated from the initial numerical information. In the present pachinko machine 10, black is set as the initial ground color, but it is not limited to this and is optional.

  In subsequent step S309, it is determined whether or not the transfer of the initial image data to the VRAM 75 is completed, and the determination process is repeated until the transfer is completed. Note that the initial image data transfer instruction timing and the data capacity are set so that the standby time in step S309 is as short as possible or does not substantially occur. If the transfer of the initial image data is completed, the process proceeds to step S310.

  In step S310, a transfer request for the regular program data is made to the memory module 74. As described above, the regular program data includes program data necessary for proceeding with the processing after step S201 in the main processing and various interrupt processing. In the memory module 74, the address designation command corresponding to the regular program data is received from the display CPU 72, whereby the regular program data transfer to the regular area 73a of the work RAM 73 is started.

  In subsequent step S311, task processing for the initial image is executed. In the task processing, processing for grasping various parameters necessary for instructing the VDP 76 to display the initial image is executed. Specifically, as various parameters, address information of the area where the initial image data is transferred in the VRAM 75, information on the target frame regions 82a and 82b for which drawing data should be created using the initial image data, and the target frame region for creation 82a and 82b include coordinate information when writing initial image data, scale information when writing the initial image data, and uniform α value (translucent value) information when writing the initial image data. Yes.

  In the following step S312, a drawing list is created as drawing instruction information including information corresponding to the processing result of the task processing in step S311 and the created drawing list is transmitted to the VDP 76. In the VDP 76, drawing data corresponding to the initial image is created in the creation target frame regions 82a and 82b according to the drawing list, and an image signal is output to the symbol display device 31 based on the created drawing data. Thereby, the display of the initial image is started on the display screen G of the symbol display device 31. The display of the initial image is continued until a drawing list is newly transmitted from the display CPU 72 and the image is updated by the VDP 76. By displaying the initial image in this way, the display of the image on the display screen G is started at an earlier timing than the configuration in which no image is displayed on the display screen G until the display of the game image is started. can do.

  In subsequent step S313, it is determined whether or not the transfer of the regular program data to the work RAM 73 is completed, and the determination process is repeated until the transfer is completed. Note that the transfer instruction timing and data capacity of the regular program data are set so that the standby time in step S313 is as short as possible or not substantially generated. When the transfer of the regular program data is completed, the process proceeds to step S314.

  In step S314, a request for transfer of the regular image data is made to the memory module 74. Thereafter, the initial setting process is terminated. As described above, the regular image data includes background data and symbol sprite data used when the symbol display device 31 starts symbol variation display. In addition, abnormality notification data used when an abnormality notification image is displayed when a predetermined fraud or abnormality is detected is included. The memory module 74 receives the address designation command corresponding to the regular image data from the display CPU 72, thereby starting the transfer of the regular image data to the regular area 81 a of the development buffer 81.

  Here, when the main process is activated in the display CPU 72 by executing the initial setting process as described above, (1) program data for startup including boot data and data in the latter half, 2) Initial image data, (3) regular program data, and (4) regular image data are transferred from the memory module 74. In this case, data is transferred in the order of (1) → (2) → (3) → (4). Further, the processing of step S302, step S306, step S309, and step S313 is executed so that the transfer timing of each data does not overlap. Therefore, the transfer of each data can be performed satisfactorily.

  Returning to the description of the main process (FIG. 9), after the initial setting process is executed in step S201, various interrupts are permitted in step S202. This allows the display CPU 72 to execute command interrupt processing and V interrupt processing. Thereafter, in the main process, the process of step S202 is repeated.

<Command interrupt processing>
Next, command interrupt processing will be described.

  The command interrupt process is a process that is started with the highest priority when a strobe signal is received from the sound emission control device 60, whatever the process being executed at that time. In the command interrupt process, the command received at the input port 77 is transferred to the command buffer provided in the change area 73b of the work RAM 73, and a flag indicating that a new command has been received is displayed in the corresponding area. set. Thereafter, the command interrupt process is terminated, and the process returns to the process before starting the command interrupt process.

  The process for confirming the command is not limited to the above-described configuration. For example, instead of confirming whether or not a strobe signal has been received, the input port 77 is periodically monitored, and the command is received as a monitoring result. It is good also as a structure transferred to a command buffer when confirming.

<V interrupt processing>
Next, the V interrupt process will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. The V interrupt process is repeatedly activated at a predetermined cycle, specifically, 20 msec.

  When the image signal for one frame is output to the symbol display device 31, the VDP 76 starts outputting the image signal from the dot at the upper left corner of the display screen G, and on the horizontal line including the dot at one end. Image signals are sequentially output for the arranged dots, and image signals are output from the left to the right dots in order from the top for each horizontal line. Then, an image signal is finally output for the dots in the lower right corner of the display screen G. In this case, the VDP 76 outputs a V interrupt signal to the display CPU 72 at the timing when the image signal is output with respect to the last dot, so that the display CPU 72 recognizes that the update of one frame image has been completed. The output period of this V interrupt signal is 20 msec. In this regard, the V interrupt processing can be regarded as being started in synchronization with reception of the V interrupt signal. However, even if the V interrupt signal is not received, the V interrupt process is newly started when 20 msec has elapsed since the previous V interrupt process was started.

  In the V interrupt processing, first, in step S401, command analysis processing is executed. Specifically, the contents of the command stored in the command buffer of the work RAM 73 are analyzed. In a succeeding step S402, it is determined whether or not a new command has been received based on the analysis result in the step S401. If a new command has been received, command response processing is executed in step S403.

  In the command handling process, a data table for executing a program corresponding to the received command is grasped. The data table defines the processing necessary to display an image for one frame at each image update timing when displaying a moving image corresponding to the received command on the display screen G of the symbol display device 31. Information group.

  Here, as already described, commands received by the display CPU 72 from the sound emission control device 60 include a variation pattern command, a symbol designation command, and a notice command. When these commands are received, a data table necessary for executing the game turning effects corresponding to these commands on the symbol display device 31 is grasped. The received command is an end command. When the command is received, a data table necessary for finally stopping the currently executed game turning effect is grasped. The received commands include various commands for jackpot presentation. When the command is received, a data table necessary to execute the jackpot presentation is grasped. The received command includes a demo display command. When the command is received, a data table necessary for executing the demo display is grasped. Further, other program data necessary for executing the processing based on the data table that is grasped as necessary is also grasped.

  Of the data tables necessary for executing the game times effect, the data tables necessary for starting the game times effect have already been transferred to the normal area 73a of the work RAM 73 as normal program data. In addition, a data table necessary for finally stopping the game turning effect, a data table necessary for starting the jackpot effect, and a data table necessary for executing the demonstration display are also used as regular program data in the work RAM 73. Already transferred to the area 73a. Further, other program data necessary for executing processing based on these data tables has already been transferred to the regular area 73a of the work RAM 73 as regular program data.

  After executing the command handling process in step S403, it is determined in step S404 whether or not advance transfer of program data is necessary. The data determined to be necessary here is a data table that is not included in the regular program data among the data tables determined to be necessary in step S403, and is necessary for executing processing based on the data table. Other program data.

  If the program data needs to be transferred in advance, in step S405, the memory module 74 is requested to transfer the necessary program data. The memory module 74 receives the address designation command corresponding to the program data from the display CPU 72, and starts to transfer the program data to the change area 73b of the work RAM 73.

  That is, when a new command is received, the display CPU 72 determines whether or not new program data needs to be transferred at the timing when the command is analyzed, and if necessary, issues a program data transfer request. As a result, the advance transfer of the program data can be started at the earliest possible timing. Incidentally, when this transfer request is made, not only the logical address where the program data to be transferred is stored but also the address of the transfer destination is designated. In addition, since the data table and program data including the processing at the first timing in executing the processing corresponding to the command are transferred as the regular program data at the initial startup, the processing corresponding to the command is received after receiving the command. There is no waiting time before it starts.

  If a negative determination is made in step S402, a negative determination is made in step S404, or after the processing in step S405 is executed, the process proceeds to step S406. In step S406, pointer update processing is executed. In the pointer update process, the pointer information set in the data table is updated to advance by one frame. As a result, it is possible for the display CPU 72 to grasp processing necessary for displaying an image for one frame corresponding to the current update timing.

  In a succeeding step S407, task processing is executed. In the task processing, in order to display an image for one frame corresponding to the current update timing, calculation of parameters necessary for giving a drawing instruction to the VDP 76 is performed. Details of the task processing will be described later.

  In subsequent step S408, a drawing list output process is executed. In the drawing list output process, a drawing list for displaying an image of one frame corresponding to the update timing related to the current processing time is created, and the created drawing list is transmitted to the VDP 76. In this case, in the drawing list, an image grasped in the immediately preceding task process is a drawing target, and parameter information updated in the task process is set together. In the VDP 76, drawing data is created in the frame areas 82a and 82b of the VRAM 75 according to this drawing list. The processing in the VDP 76 will be described in detail later.

  In a succeeding step S409, it is determined whether or not the program data is being transferred. If the program data is being transferred, the V interrupt processing is terminated as it is. On the other hand, if the program data is not being transferred, it is determined in step S410 whether or not the image data needs to be transferred by referring to the information set as the update timing after the current state in the currently set data table. Determine whether.

  Of the various image data, the image data used for the drawing instruction based on the regular program data is set as the regular image data. That is, as the regular image data, the image data necessary for starting the game effect, the image data necessary for starting the jackpot effect, and the image data necessary for executing the demonstration display are set. . These image data transfer requests have already been made to the memory module 74 in the initial setting process (FIG. 10), and when the display CPU 72 has received a command, the transfer has been completed.

  Note that the present invention is not limited to this configuration, and at least the processing after step S406 may not be executed until the transfer of the regular image data is completed. In this case, after the main process (FIG. 9) is activated in the display CPU 72 and the initial image is displayed on the symbol display device 31, the display of the initial image is continued until the transfer of the regular image data is completed. It becomes. In addition, when transferring the initial image data, simple symbol data with a data capacity smaller than the total data capacity of the image data required to display the symbol variation is transferred at the same time, and the transfer of the regular image data group is completed. If a variation pattern command is received in a situation where it is not, a configuration may be adopted in which variation display using simple symbols is performed.

  The image data determined to be transferred in step S410 is image data that is required at the update timing after the current state in the currently set data table and is not included in the regular image data. It is. If it is not necessary to transfer the image data, the V interrupt process is terminated. If it is necessary to transfer image data, in step S411, the memory module 74 is requested to transfer the necessary image data, and then the V interrupt process is terminated. The memory module 74 receives the address designation command corresponding to the image data from the display CPU 72, and starts the transfer of the image data to the change area 81b of the development buffer 81.

  That is, the display CPU 72 refers to the currently set data table to determine whether or not new image data needs to be transferred, and if necessary, issues a transfer request for the image data and creates drawing data in the VDP 76. The image data is pre-transferred before the timing required for this is reached. Thereby, the drawing data can be smoothly created in the VDP 76. Incidentally, when this transfer request is made, not only the logical address at which the image data to be transferred is stored but also the transfer destination address is designated. In addition, since the regular image data is transferred at the time of initial startup, no waiting time is generated after the command is received until the display of the corresponding image is started.

  Here, by executing the processing of step S409, the transfer of the program data has priority over the transfer of the image data. Even if transfer of program data is prioritized in this way, the necessity of transferring image data is determined with reference to the data table, so even if transfer is temporarily avoided in step S409. Then, in the subsequent V interrupt process, the necessity for transfer is determined and a transfer request is executed. As a result, the transfer timing of the program data and the image data can be prevented from overlapping, and the transfer of the program data can be prioritized.

<Basic processing in VDP 76>
Next, basic processing executed by the VDP 76 will be described.

  In the VDP 76, processing for setting the value of the register 92 based on a command transmitted from the display CPU 72, processing for creating drawing data in the frame areas 82a and 82b of the frame buffer 82 based on the drawing list transmitted from the display CPU 72, And the process which outputs an image signal to the symbol display apparatus 31 based on the drawing data produced in the frame area | regions 82a and 82b is performed.

  Among the above processes, the process of setting the value of the register 92 is executed each time a command is received by a circuit (not shown) attached to the I / F 95 for the display CPU 72. Further, the process of creating the drawing data is repeatedly activated by the control unit 91 at a predetermined cycle (for example, 1 msec). Further, the process of outputting the image signal is executed by the display circuit 94 at a predetermined output start timing of the image signal.

  Hereinafter, the process of creating the drawing data will be described in detail. Prior to the description of the processing, the contents of the drawing list transmitted from the display CPU 72 to the VDP 76 will be described. 12A to 12C are explanatory diagrams for explaining the contents of the drawing list.

  Header information is set in the drawing list. In the header information, information of a target buffer, which is information indicating which one of the first frame region 82a and the second frame region 82b is to be created, is set for an image of one frame related to the drawing list. Yes. Also, in the header information, presence / absence of decoding designation and address information to which moving image data to be decoded is transferred are set. In addition, various designation information is set in the header information. The contents of the various designation information will be described later.

  In the drawing list, in addition to the header information, a plurality of types of image data used for displaying an image for one frame are set. Further, information on the drawing order of each image data and each image data Parameter information is set. More specifically, the drawing order information is set so as to be sequential numerical value information, and information of image data to be used is set corresponding to each numerical information one-to-one. Also, parameter information is set in a one-to-one correspondence with the information of each image data.

  The drawing order is set so that an individual image desired to be displayed is positioned on the back side of the display screen G in an image for one frame before the drawing target. The individual image refers to one still image defined by still image data such as background data and one sprite defined by sprite data such as symbol sprite data. In the drawing list of FIG. 12A, the background data is set as the first drawing target, the sprite data A is set as the second, the sprite data B is set as the third, and so on. Therefore, the background data is first written in the frame regions 82a and 82b to be drawn, and then the sprite data A is written so as to overlap the background data, and the sprite data B is further written. In the image for one frame, each individual image is displayed so that the front side is in the order of background image → effect image → design.

  In parameter information P (1), P (2), P (3),..., A plurality of types of parameters are set. Specifically, the background data parameter P (1), as shown in FIG. 12 (b), the address information of the area where the background data is transferred in the VRAM 75 and the two-dimensional plane when the background data is written. Frame areas 82a and 82b with respect to the coordinate information indicating the position of the image, the rotation angle information indicating the rotation angle on the two-dimensional plane when the background data is written, and the size set as the initial state of the background data. Information on the scale indicating the magnification at the time of writing, information on the uniform α value indicating the entire transmission information (or transparency information) when writing the background data, and the α data designation indicating whether or not the α data is applied and the application target Information is set. The types of parameters are the same for sprite data A as shown in FIG.

  Here, the coordinate information is not individually set for all the pixels constituting the image data, but one coordinate information is set for one image data. Specifically, one pixel at the center of the image data is set as a reference pixel for specifying coordinate information. In the VDP 76, it is possible to recognize that the designated coordinate information is one pixel at the center of the image data, and when the image data is arranged, the center pixel is on the designated coordinate. . Thereby, the information capacity of the coordinate information to be specified for one image data in the display CPU 72 can be suppressed. Further, since it is not necessary for the display CPU 72 and the VDP 76 to recognize coordinates for all pixels of the image data, the program can be simplified.

  Incidentally, the reference pixel is not limited to the central pixel, and may be a corner pixel such as upper left or upper right. Since the sprite data and the still image data are basically defined as a rectangular shape, the display CPU 72 and the VDP 76 can easily recognize the reference pixel by using the corner pixel as the reference pixel.

  The uniform α value is transmission information applied to all dots of one image data, and is numerical information derived as a calculation result in the display CPU 72. The uniform α value is uniformly applied to all the pixels of the image data. On the other hand, the α data is transmission information applied in units of pixels of background data and sprite data, and is stored in advance in the NAND flash memory 102 as image data. The alpha data can have different transmission information for each pixel within the range of the same background data or the same sprite data. The α data has a larger data capacity than program data for setting a uniform α value.

  Since the uniform α value and α data are set as described above, the transparency of the background data and sprite data need not be finely controlled on a pixel-by-pixel basis, but should be controlled uniformly for all pixels. By being able to cope with a uniform α value, the required data capacity can be reduced, and by applying α data, the transparency can be finely controlled in units of pixels.

  Drawing processing in the VDP 76 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  First, in step S501, it is determined whether or not the creation of drawing data instructed in the already received drawing list has been completed. If the creation of the drawing data has been completed, it is determined in step S502 whether a new drawing list has been received from the display CPU 72 or not. If a new drawing list has been received, corresponding processing at the time of reception is executed in step S503.

  In the corresponding processing at the time of reception, it is determined from which information of the target buffer included in the drawing list which frame area 82a, 82b the image for one frame corresponding to the drawing list received this time is created, and the determination The frame area thus set is set as a drawing data creation target. Also, the presence / absence of decoding designation is grasped, and when there is a decoding designation, the address to which the moving image data to be decoded is grasped, and the moving picture decoder is operated so as to decode the moving image data. . Details of this decoding will be described later.

  In subsequent step S504, a content grasping process is executed. In the content grasping process, the type of image data initially set as a drawing target in the drawing list is grasped, and various parameters of the image data are grasped. In the case of sprite data, color palette data is applied to each dot of the bitmap image. In a succeeding step S505, a writing process is executed. In the writing process, based on the grasping result of the contents grasping process in step S504, the current drawing target image data is written in the frame areas 82a and 82b set as the creation object.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S501 that drawing data instructed in the already received drawing list is being created, a drawing list counter update process is executed in step S506. As a result, the drawing target is switched to the image data of the next drawing order. Then, the processing of step S504 and step S505 is executed for the switched image data. That is, by executing the drawing process a plurality of times, drawing data of an image for one frame designated by one drawing list is created.

  Note that the present invention is not limited to a configuration in which only one image data is processed in one drawing process, and a configuration in which a plurality of image data is processed in one drawing process may be used. However, the present invention is not limited to the configuration in which the same number of image data is processed in each processing time, and a configuration in which a different number of image data is processed in each processing time of the drawing processing may be employed.

  If a negative determination is made in step S502, or after the processing in step S505 is executed, it is determined in step S507 whether or not the output of the image signal for one frame is completed in the display circuit 94. If it has not been completed, this drawing process is terminated. If it has been completed, a V interrupt signal is output to the display CPU 72, and then this drawing process is terminated.

  The drawing data for one frame is generated so as to be completed within a 20 msec cycle. An image signal is output from the display circuit 94 to the symbol display device 31 based on the created drawing data. Since the double buffer method is adopted as described above, the output of the image signal is output to the output. This is performed in parallel with the creation of drawing data for one frame after that frame. Note that the display circuit 94 includes a selector circuit that alternately switches the frame regions 82a and 82b to be referred to every time the output of the image signal for one frame is completed, and the control unit 91 is switched by the switching by the selector circuit. The frame regions 82a and 82b which are the drawing targets of the drawing data are restricted so as not to be the output targets for outputting the image signal.

<Task processing in display CPU 72>
Next, task processing executed in the display CPU 72 will be described.

  As already described, the task processing is executed in the V interrupt processing (FIG. 11) of the display CPU 72 in order to grasp information necessary for creating the drawing list. In this case, in the task processing, not only the individual image included in the range of the image for one frame but also the individual image not included in the range of the image for one frame is set as a control target.

  With reference to FIG. 14, the range of the virtual two-dimensional plane PL <b> 1 that is a calculation target in the display CPU 72 will be described. In FIG. 14, the range defined by the alternate long and short dash line is the virtual two-dimensional plane PL1, and the range defined by the alternate long and two short dashes line is the drawing range PL2 for one frame defined by the frame regions 82a and 82b. Further, the virtual two-dimensional plane PL1 and the drawing range PL2 shown in FIG. 14 schematically show the data configuration for performing calculations in the display CPU 72.

  As shown in FIG. 14, the virtual two-dimensional plane PL1 and the drawing range PL2 for one frame are both defined to be rectangular, specifically, a horizontally long rectangular shape. Further, the virtual two-dimensional plane PL1 is defined such that the virtual area to be defined is wider than the drawing range PL2 for one frame, and the range is defined to include the entire drawing range PL2 for one frame. Has been. This size is set to a size that allows a plurality of drawing ranges PL2 for one frame to be arranged in both the vertical and horizontal directions.

  In the display CPU 72, an individual image is calculated using the virtual two-dimensional plane PL1 as a calculation target range, and reference coordinates are set as a position reference for the calculation. The reference coordinates are arbitrary as long as they are determined as one dot among the dots included in the virtual two-dimensional plane PL1, but in the pachinko machine 10, the drawing range PL2 for one frame is arranged at the initial setting position. In this state, it is determined as a dot in the upper left corner of the drawing range PL2. The initial setting position is a position where the drawing range PL2 for one frame is arranged at the center of the virtual two-dimensional plane PL1.

  By setting the virtual two-dimensional plane PL1 as described above, in the display CPU 72, an individual image that is not included in an image for one frame but is included in an image for one frame at a subsequent update timing. It becomes possible to start the calculation in advance. Further, in the pachinko machine 10, by using the virtual two-dimensional plane PL1, it is possible to execute an effect such that the viewpoint is switched based on the operation of the effect operating device 48 by the player. That is, the position of the drawing range PL2 for one frame can be displaced from the initial setting position in the virtual two-dimensional plane PL1 based on the operation of the effect operating device 48. The calculation for performing this effect is executed by the task processing of the display CPU 72.

  Hereinafter, the task processing will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  First, in step S601, it is determined whether or not it is a viewpoint switching period. The viewpoint switchable period is set, for example, as a period from the start of the symbol variation display on the symbol display device 31 until the symbol variation display is stopped in the first symbol row Z1 or the next symbol row Z2. Or may be set as a period in which the notice display is performed in the symbol display device 31, or may be set as a period in which the reach display is performed in the symbol display device 31. 31 may be set as a period in which a specific reach effect is performed, or may be set as a period in which a jackpot effect is performed in the symbol display device 31. In addition, information on whether or not it is the viewpoint switching period is set in the data table.

  If it is in the viewpoint switchable period, it is determined in step S602 whether the viewpoint is switched. The viewpoint switching state means a state in which the drawing range PL2 for one frame is set to a position different from the initial setting position, and a viewpoint switching flag is set in the work RAM 73 when the viewpoint switching is performed. Thus, the viewpoint switching state is established, and when the drawing range PL2 returns to the initial setting position, the viewpoint switching state is canceled by deleting the flag.

  If not in the viewpoint switching state, it is determined in step S603 whether there is a viewpoint switching instruction. The presence or absence of a viewpoint switching instruction is performed by determining whether or not an operation generation command is received from the sound emission control device 60.

  Here, the operation generation command is transmitted based on the operation of the production operation device 48 as described above, and further, in correspondence with the fact that a plurality of positions where the viewpoint can be switched are set, The operation generation command includes information on the position to be switched. Whether or not the operation generation command has been received is determined in step S402 of the V interrupt process (FIG. 11). If the operation generation command has been received, it is determined in step S403 that the operation generation command has been received. A flag to be shown is set in the work RAM 73, and information corresponding to the type of operation generation command is set in the work RAM 73.

  If there is a viewpoint switching instruction, in step S604, coordinate change processing of the drawing range PL2 is executed. In the coordinate change process, it is determined which information included in the operation generation command corresponding to the current switching instruction is the information instructed to change to which coordinate, and the drawing range PL2 moves to the coordinate corresponding to the instruction. As described above, the coordinate information of the drawing range PL2 is updated. Also, the viewpoint switching state is set in the coordinate changing process.

  On the other hand, if it is already in the viewpoint switching state (step S602: NO), it is determined in step S605 whether a release condition is satisfied. Whether or not the release condition is satisfied is determined by determining whether or not an operation release command is received from the sound emission control device 60. Note that the specific processing configuration for determining whether or not an operation release command has been received is the same as that for the operation generation command.

  If the release condition is satisfied, a drawing range return process is executed in step S606. In the return processing, the coordinate information of the drawing range PL2 is updated so that the drawing range PL2 returns to the initial setting position. Further, the viewpoint switching state is canceled in the return process. In addition, also when it determines with it not being a viewpoint switchable period (step S601: NO), the process of step S606 is performed. However, when the drawing range PL2 has already returned to the initial setting position, the process of step S606 may be skipped.

  When a negative determination is made in step S603, after the process of step S604 is executed, after a negative determination is made in step S605, or after the process of step S606 is executed, the process proceeds to step S607. In step S607, it is determined whether there is an individual image to be controlled. The individual images to be controlled are shown in the currently set data table, and are set in association with the positions of a plurality of types of drawing ranges PL2 in the viewpoint switching period. Further, the individual images to be controlled are not all the individual images that can be arranged on the virtual two-dimensional plane PL1, but the currently set drawing range PL2 and the specified number of dots in the vertical and horizontal directions from the drawing range PL2. Individual images that are included in the outer range and are not yet set as control targets are extracted.

  If there are control start target individual images, it is determined in step S608 whether or not there are a plurality of control start target individual images. If there are not a plurality of such images, the single individual image is recognized as a control start target, and the process proceeds to step S612 without executing the processes in steps S609 to S611.

  If there are a plurality (step S608: YES), it is determined in step S609 whether or not there is a control start target individual image included in the drawing range PL2 at least a part of which is currently set. Determine whether. That is, in the configuration in which the virtual two-dimensional plane PL1 is set in the display CPU 72 as described above, and an individual image outside the currently set drawing range PL2 can be set as a control target, the individual control start target is set individually. Since not only the image within the drawing range PL2 but also the image outside the drawing range PL2 is included as an image, it is determined in step S609 which one corresponds. Incidentally, the coordinates of the control start position of the individual image included in the control start target are set in the currently set data table, and the coordinates of the control start position and the currently set coordinates of the drawing range PL2 , The relative position of the individual image included in the control start target with respect to the drawing range PL2 is grasped.

  If there is a control start target individual image that is at least partially included in the drawing range PL2, in step S610, the individual image is grasped as the current control start target. In this case, when a plurality of individual images to be controlled are included in the drawing range PL2, all of them are grasped as the control start targets. However, the present invention is not limited to this configuration, and the individual image is outside the drawing range PL2 so that a situation in which there are a plurality of individual images to be controlled within the drawing range PL2 does not occur in one processing of the task processing. It is good also as a structure set as a control start object in the process time with a low processing load.

  On the other hand, when the individual image to be controlled is not included in the drawing range PL2, there are a plurality of control starting targets outside the drawing range PL2. In this case, in step S611, among the individual images outside the drawing range PL2, an individual image closer to the currently set drawing range PL2 is grasped as a control start target.

  Incidentally, as a result of the processing in step S610 and step S611, an individual image whose control start timing is postponed is recognized as a control start target in the subsequent processing times. In this case, when an individual image displayed as if it is moving in a predetermined direction at every update timing of the image is postponed, the control start parameter of the individual image including the control start position is one update timing. It is updated on the data table so that it is in an advanced state. As a result, even if the control start timing is postponed, the individual image is displayed at a predetermined position and state at a predetermined timing.

  When a negative determination is made in step S608, or after execution of either step S610 or step S611, the control start process of steps S612 to S614 is executed. In the control start process, first, in step S612, the work RAM 73 is searched for an empty buffer area for performing various calculations in controlling individual images, and a pair of individual images grasped as control start targets is paired. A free buffer area is secured so as to correspond to 1.

  In subsequent step S613, initialization processing is executed for all the empty buffer areas secured in step S612. In subsequent step S614, a parameter for starting control corresponding to the individual image is set for the empty buffer area initialized in step S613. The parameters for starting control include the position, rotation angle, and size of the target individual image on the virtual two-dimensional plane PL1. When there are a plurality of individual images that are recognized as control start targets, control start parameters are individually set for each empty buffer area corresponding to each individual image.

  When a negative determination is made in step S607 or after the process of step S614 is executed, the control update process of steps S615 to S618 is executed. In the control update process, first, background calculation processing is executed in step S615. In the background arithmetic processing, the current control update target is grasped among the rearmost still image and the background sprite that constitute the background image. In addition, for the grasped control update target, various parameters necessary for creating a drawing list such as coordinates on the virtual two-dimensional plane PL1, rotation angle, scale, uniform α value and α data designation are calculated and derived. Then, the control information is updated by writing the derived various parameters in an area secured in correspondence with each individual image in the work RAM 73.

  In the subsequent step S616, an effect calculation process is executed. In the effect calculation processing, the current control update target is grasped among effect sprites that constitute an effect image to be displayed in various effects such as reach display, notice display, and jackpot effect. The various parameters are derived for the grasped control update target. Then, the control information is updated by writing the derived various parameters in an area secured in correspondence with each individual image in the work RAM 73.

  In the subsequent step S617, a symbol calculation process is executed. In the symbol computation process, the current control update target is grasped from symbols subject to variable display in each game round. The various parameters are derived for the grasped control update target. Then, the control information is updated by writing the derived various parameters in an area secured in correspondence with each individual image in the work RAM 73.

  Incidentally, in each processing of step S615 to step S617, animation data set so as to change various parameters of the individual image according to a specific pattern every time the image update timing comes. This animation data is determined according to the type of individual image. The animation data is stored in advance in the NAND flash memory 102 and is transferred in advance to the work RAM 73 before the display CPU 72 needs to read it.

  Then, after executing the drawing instruction target grasping process in step S618, the task process is terminated. In the drawing instruction target grasping process, the individual images included in the image for one frame related to the current drawing data creation instruction among the individual images that have been controlled and updated by the processes in steps S615 to S617. Execute the process to grasp.

  The grasping is performed by executing a predetermined calculation with reference to information on the drawing range PL2 that is currently set and information on coordinates, rotation angles, and scales of various individual images. The individual image grasped here is set as a drawing target in the drawing list. In this way, it is necessary to select individual images to be displayed in the VDP 76 by making the individual images specified in the drawing list not only all individual images for which control has been started, but only individual images to be displayed. In addition, even if it is not selected, there is no need to perform drawing processing for individual images that are not display targets. Thereby, the processing load of the VDP 76 can be reduced.

  As described above, for the individual image to be controlled, “search for empty buffer area” in step S612, “initialization of reserved buffer area” in step S613, and “setting parameters for starting control” in step S614. ”And any one of the“ various parameter update procedures ”in steps S615 to S617 is executed, while the individual image only for the control update target is in any one of“ various parameter update ”in steps S615 to S617. Only the "update procedure" is executed. Therefore, the processing load is greater for an individual image that is a control start target than for an individual image that is only a control update target. In addition, it is good also as a structure by which the process which replaces it with respect to the individual image used as the control start object is performed in either of step S615-step S617, without performing the process of step S614.

  Here, as already described, it is necessary to update the image at a cycle of 20 msec, and this image update is performed by transmitting a drawing list created based on the processing result of the task processing to the VDP 76. Then, for the task process, a period required for creating a drawing list and receiving it by the VDP 76 for 20 msec, a period required for creating drawing data corresponding to an image for one frame based on the drawing list It is necessary to complete in a period shorter than the period minus. In such a situation, as described above, the processing for starting the control has a larger processing load than the processing for updating the control. Therefore, if there are a large number of individual images to be controlled, the task processing is completed. There is a possibility that processing failure occurs without being in time. On the other hand, the processing from step S608 to step S611 is executed, and the control start timing is distributed so that there are not many individual images to be controlled in one processing time. Does not occur.

  Although detailed description is omitted, the individual image once controlled is not displayed within a predetermined number of frames, such as at a position outside the virtual two-dimensional plane PL1. When it becomes, it is excluded from the control target. When it becomes necessary to perform the control for the individual image again, the process for starting the control is executed again.

  Next, how each individual image is a control target in the task processing will be described with reference to FIG. FIGS. 16A and 16B are explanatory diagrams for explaining how individual images are controlled. FIG. 16A shows a case where viewpoint switching is not performed, and FIG. ) Indicates a case where the viewpoint is switched.

  When the viewpoint is not switched, the drawing range PL2 is fixed as shown in FIG. In this case, since the individual images PC1 to PC3 included in the drawing range PL2 are targeted for control start at a timing prior to the timing shown in FIG. 16A, only the control update process is executed.

  On the other hand, since the individual image PC4 and the individual image PC5 that are outside the drawing range PL2 but are included in the control target range PL3 are not yet controlled, the individual image PC4 and the individual image PC5 are included in the control start target. Will be. However, if the processing load increases when the control start process is executed for both the individual images PC4 and PC5, the control start process is preferentially executed for the individual image PC4 close to the drawing range PL2, and the individual image PC4 and PC5 are individually processed. The control start process for the image PC 5 is performed in the next task process. In addition, the individual image PC6 and the individual image PC7 that are included in the virtual two-dimensional plane PL1 but outside the control target range PL3 are not included in the control start target, and the control start process is not executed.

  When there are a plurality of individual targets outside the drawing range PL2 as control start targets, the control start process is executed with priority from the side closer to the drawing range PL2. Thereby, in the configuration in which the control start timing is dispersed, the frequency at which the control start process is executed at a timing at which at least a part of the drawing range PL2 is included is reduced.

  When the viewpoint is switched, as shown in FIG. 16B, the previous task process has the drawing range PL2 at the first position defined by the two-dot chain line, whereas the current task. The drawing range PL2 is displaced to the second position defined by the solid line by the processing. In this case, a part of the drawing range PL2 at the second position is included in the drawing range PL2 at the first position, and accordingly, the individual image PC8 is the first at the time of the previous task processing. Since the drawing range PL2 at the position is at least partially included, it is already a control target. Therefore, in the current task process, it is not necessary to execute the control start process for the individual image PC8.

  On the other hand, since the individual image PC9 and the individual image PC10 are newly included in the drawing range PL2 displaced to the second position, the control start process has priority over both the individual image PC9 and the individual image PC10. Is executed and controlled. In this case, the individual image PC11 is newly included in the control target range with respect to the drawing range PL2 at the second position, but the control start process is executed with priority on the individual images PC9 and PC10. This time, it is excluded from the control start target.

  Even when the control start timing is distributed, when it is necessary to execute the control start process on the individual images included in the drawing range PL2, that is, included in the image for one frame, the control start process is It is executed preferentially and is not deferred. As a result, there is no inconvenience that an individual image that should originally be included in an image for one frame is not included.

  In particular, in a configuration in which an effect is performed in which the viewpoint is switched when the effect operating device 48 is operated by a player, an individual image that has not been controlled until then may be suddenly controlled. Can happen. On the other hand, since the control start process is executed with priority on the individual images included in the image for one frame as described above, the effect of switching the viewpoint can be achieved without causing the above disadvantages. Can perform well.

  Note that the configuration in which the control start timings are dispersed as described above may be applied to a configuration in which all the individual images included in the virtual two-dimensional plane PL1 are the control start targets in the display CPU 72. In this case, the individual image included in the drawing range is given the highest priority as the control start target, and the individual image for the entire range is set as the control start target while giving priority to the side closer to the drawing range. Thus, it is possible to start the control in advance for a wider range of individual images than in the above configuration while favorably distributing the control start timing.

  However, in this configuration, since the individual images to be controlled and updated in the display CPU 72 are increased as compared with the above configuration, the processing load of the processing for control update in each processing time increases. In order to reduce the processing load of the control update process, it is preferable that a part of the virtual two-dimensional plane PL1 is set as a control start target as described above.

  Further, the drawing range may be switched in advance. In this configuration, it is preferable to perform in advance the control start processing of the individual image that will be included in the drawing range of the switching destination when the period when the switching is possible or at a timing before that. . Thereby, even if the drawing range is switched at an arbitrary timing, it is possible to cope with it.

  Further, the configuration in which the control start timings are dispersed as described above may be applied to a configuration in which the drawing range is not switched. In this case, the presence / absence of the control start target may be determined based on the fixed drawing range, so that the processing configuration for performing the confirmation can be simplified. In this configuration, an individual image that is displayed so as to move in the depth direction of the display screen G can be considered as an individual image that is a control start target at a timing that is a display target on the display screen G.

  Further, the configuration in which the control start timings are dispersed as described above may be applied to a configuration in which a display mode such as a background image or a pattern is changed based on an operation of the effect operating device 48 or the like. Even in this case, the control start timing can be well distributed.

<Configuration for displaying scroll background image>
Next, a configuration for displaying a scroll background image will be described.

  In the pachinko machine 10, a scroll background image is set as a kind of background image. The scroll background image is a background image displayed so as to scroll and change in a predetermined direction, specifically, in the horizontal direction as time passes. The scroll background image is set to have background images for a plurality of frames in the scroll direction. The scroll background image has a start point portion and an end point portion, and is set so that the image of the start point portion has continuity with respect to the image of the end point portion. As a result of the scroll display, when the scroll background image reaches the end point portion, the start point portion is continuously displayed. That is, the scroll background image is repeatedly displayed so as to go around.

  As image data for displaying the scroll background image, scroll background data PD1 is set. The scroll background data PD1 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 17 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the scroll background data PD1.

  The scroll background data PD1 is still image data. As shown in FIG. 17A, the vertical size is set to one frame or larger, and the horizontal size as the scroll direction is Are set to be a plurality of frames. The scroll background data PD1 is not set as one image data, but is set as an aggregate of a plurality of divided part data PD2 to PD10. Each of the divided part data PD2 to PD10 is set so as to divide the scroll background data PD1 in the scroll direction, and the scroll background data PD1 is configured by arranging in the scroll direction.

  The contents of the images set in the divided part data PD2 to PD10 are different from each other. However, the divided part data adjacent in the scroll direction is set so that the content of the image has continuity in the scroll direction.

  The divided parts data PD2 to PD10 are set so that the sizes in the vertical direction and the horizontal direction are the same. In this case, the horizontal size is set to be smaller than one frame, and in order to form a background image for one frame, a part of the divided part data PD2 to PD10 and a plurality of divided part data are set side by side. There is a need to. Specifically, in the case of setting the divided part data at the initial size, the horizontal direction is set so that a background image for one frame can be formed by arranging two or three divided part data. The size is set. Note that a background image for one frame may be formed by always arranging three divided parts data or arranging four or more divided parts data. It is good also as a structure which can form an image.

  Further, the divided parts data adjacent in the scroll direction are set to overlap each other at the boundary portion. The divided parts data PD5 and PD6 adjacent in the scroll direction will be described as an example.

  As shown in FIGS. 17B and 17C, each pixel constituting one line in the direction (vertical direction) orthogonal to the scroll direction at the end point portion of the divided part data PD5 on the scroll destination side, In the starting point portion of the divided part data PD6, the pixels constituting one line in the direction (vertical direction) orthogonal to the scroll direction are set to the same coordinate in the scroll direction when drawing in the frame regions 82a and 82b. The same data is set for each line. When both divided parts data PD5 and PD6 are drawn, the lines overlap each other. That is, the overlapping area PA1 is set at the boundary portion between the divided part data PD5 and PD6 adjacent in the scroll direction.

  The effect | action by setting overlap area | region PA1 is demonstrated using FIG. 18A-1 and 18A-2 show the divided part data PD5 and PD6 in which the overlapping area PA1 is set, and FIGS. 18B-1 and 18B-2 show that the overlapping area PA1 is set. The divided part data PD5 and PD6 not shown are shown.

  As shown in FIG. 18 (b-1), in the divided part data in which the overlapping area PA1 is not set, when both divided parts data are enlarged from the initial size and drawn in the frame areas 82a and 82b, FIG. As shown in b-2), a gap may occur at the boundary between the two parts data. For example, depending on the method of enlarging the divided part data and the method of setting the enlarged frame areas 82a and 82b, if the overlapping area PA1 is not set, a dot in which no data is set between the adjacent divided part data is set. It may be present. In this case, the background color is set for the dot, and the boundary portion is conspicuous in appearance, which is not preferable.

  Further, for example, when the divided part data is enlarged, the above-described phenomenon occurs depending on the content of linear interpolation executed when each pixel of the divided part data after the enlargement corresponds to each dot of the frame regions 82a and 82b. . And the data of the edge part of division | segmentation part data is expanded and set to the dot of the above gap parts. If it does so, a boundary part will be in a conspicuous state in appearance, and is not preferable.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 18 (a-1), in the divided part data PD5 and PD6 in which the overlapping area PA1 is set, both the divided part data PD5 and PD6 are enlarged at the same magnification from the initial size. Even if the drawing is performed in the frame areas 82a and 82b, no gap is generated because the overlapping area PA1 exists at the boundary between the divided part data PD5 and PD6 as shown in FIG. 18 (a-2). As a result, it is possible to display an image using the divided part data PD5 and PD6 without causing the above inconvenience.

  Incidentally, as described above, the effect of preventing the generation of a gap due to the presence of the overlap area PA1 is that each divided part data PD5 and PD6 is reduced from the initial size by the same magnification and drawn in the frame areas 82a and 82b. The same is true for cases. Further, in order to more surely prevent the inconvenience that a gap is generated due to the presence of edge portion data after enlargement, the divided parts data PD5 and PD6 constituting the overlapping area PA1 are arranged on the near side. For example, α data is used to make the edge part completely transparent so that the edge part data (partial data after enlargement of the overlapping area PA1) of the divided parts data is not reflected on the frame areas 82a and 82b. Further, it is possible to adopt a configuration in which the data of the portion overlapping the edge portion in the divided part data on the back side is set to the corresponding dot in the frame regions 82a and 82b.

  In addition, a part constituting one overlapping area PA1 is a pixel for one line in each of the divided part data PD5 and PD6. Thereby, the data capacity allocated to provide the overlapping area PA1 can be suppressed as much as possible.

  In the divided part data PD5 and PD6, the same data is set in the portion constituting one overlapping area PA1. As a result, when the divided parts data PD5 and PD6 are individually enlarged and set in the frame regions 82a and 82b, even if the overlapping portions are slightly shifted, the shifted portions are within the same data range. Deviation occurs, and even in this case, a good display mode can be obtained.

  A specific processing configuration for displaying the scroll background image will be described below. FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing a calculation process for scroll background executed by the display CPU 72. The scroll background calculation process is executed in the background calculation process of step S615 in the task process (FIG. 15). The calculation process for the scroll background is activated when information about the scroll background is set in the currently set data table.

  First, in step S701, the scroll position information is updated. The scroll position information is information for specifying which region is displayed on the display screen G in the scroll background image. The scroll position information is determined by numerical information of a scroll counter provided in the work RAM 73. A large number of frame portions included in the scroll background image correspond to each numerical value of the scroll position information on a one-to-one basis. In step S701, the numerical information of the scroll counter is updated so that 1 is added.

  In subsequent step S702, the scale of the background image of this time is grasped. In the subsequent step S703, the divided part data included in the display range is grasped by referring to the scroll position information updated in step S701 and the scale grasped in step S702. In this case, at least two pieces of divided part data are grasped. Incidentally, the control start processing for the divided part data has already been completed.

  In the subsequent step S704, the coordinates of the divided part data on the most scrolling side among the divided part data grasped in step S703 are calculated and derived, and the information on the derived coordinates corresponds to the divided part data in the work RAM 73. The information for control is updated by writing in the reserved area.

  In the subsequent step S705, as coordinates of the next divided part data, coordinates for generating an overlapping region are calculated for the adjacent divided parts data on the scroll destination side, and information on the derived coordinates is obtained from the work RAM 73. The control information is updated by writing in the area secured corresponding to the divided part data.

  In a succeeding step S706, it is determined whether or not the coordinates have been grasped for all of the divided part data grasped in the step S703. If unrecognized divided part data exists, the process of step S705 is executed for the divided part data. If there is no unrecognized divided part data, the process proceeds to step S707.

  In step S707, parameter information other than the size and coordinates is updated for the divided part data obtained in step S703. Thereafter, in step S708, after the scroll background designation information is stored, this calculation process is terminated.

  When the above process is executed, the divided part data grasped in step S703 is set as a drawing target in the drawing list transmitted in the subsequent drawing list output process (step S408). Also, scroll background designation information is set in this drawing list.

  Next, the setting process of the divided part data executed by the VDP 76 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. The divided part data setting process is executed in the content grasping process in step S504 in the drawing process (FIG. 13). The divided part data setting process is activated when scroll background designation is set in the drawing list.

  First, in step S801, the type of divided part data to be drawn and the address where the divided part data is transferred in the expansion buffer 81 of the VRAM 75 are grasped. Thereafter, the scale of each divided part data is grasped in step S802, the coordinates of each divided part data are grasped in step S803, and other parameters are grasped in step S804, and then this setting process is terminated.

  By executing the setting process of the divided part data, each divided part data is stored in the subsequent writing process (step S505) with the above parameters applied to the frame areas 82a and 82b to be drawn. Drawn. Then, an image signal is output to the symbol display device 31 based on the drawing data, whereby a background image using each of the divided part data is displayed on the display screen G.

  Here, a part of the divided parts data to be drawn protrudes from the frame regions 82a and 82b to be drawn. For example, as shown in FIG. 17A, when three divided part data PD2 to PD4 are drawn in a region PL4 for one frame partitioned by a two-dot chain line, in each divided part data PD2 to PD4, There is a portion that protrudes from the region PL4 for one frame. In the VDP 76, when image data is drawn in the frame regions 82a and 82b, it is not possible to draw out only some pixels. Therefore, although the protruding portion is not written in the frame regions 82a and 82b, the same processing as that executed when the portion that does not protrude is drawn in the frame regions 82a and 82b is executed for the pixels at the protruding portion. The

  As described above, the scroll background data including data for a plurality of frames is stored in advance as a plurality of divided part data, so that the size that can be stored as single image data in the NAND flash memory 102 is set to be excessively large. There is no need to do it. In addition, if the background data for scrolling is transferred as a single image data, the transfer time becomes longer, but since it can be transferred in divided part data units, the timing of data transfer can be adjusted. It will be easy.

  Further, the VDP 76 performs the drawing process on the portion that protrudes from the frame regions 82a and 82b to be drawn in the same manner as the portion that does not protrude. However, when the scroll background data is used as a single image data, the VDP 76 protrudes. There are many places, and the processing load increases. On the other hand, by using only the divided part data in which at least a part is included in the frame regions 82a and 82b, the protruding portion can be suppressed and the processing load can be reduced. In addition, parameter information is not derived in the display CPU 72 for the divided parts data that is not to be displayed. As a result, the processing load on the display CPU 72 is reduced.

  In addition, by setting the divided part data small and increasing the divided part data used in each frame, it is possible to suppress the portion that protrudes from the frame regions 82a and 82b. However, as the divided part data increases, the display CPU 72 As a result, the amount of image data subject to parameter calculation increases, and the processing load on the display CPU 72 increases. On the other hand, since the size of each divided part data is set so that there are 2 to 3 pieces of divided part data used in each frame, the processing load on the display CPU 72 can be suppressed.

  The scroll direction is not limited to the horizontal direction, and may be a vertical direction or an oblique direction.

  In addition, when focusing on the effect that the data capacity of a single image data can be suppressed, a configuration in which a plurality of divided part data is set as image data for displaying a series of images may be required. The divided parts data may not have the overlapping area PA1. In this case, if the individual size adjustment of each divided part data is not performed, the possibility that a gap is generated is reduced. Even if the size is adjusted, the gap may not exist by adjusting the coordinates when setting the frame regions 82a and 82b.

  In addition, the overlapping area PA1 may not be configured by pixels for one column, but may be configured by pixels for a plurality of columns. In this case, although the data capacity allocated to the overlapping area PA1 increases, the generation of a gap can be more reliably prevented. Moreover, it is good also as a structure by which the same data is not set to the part which comprises one overlap area | region PA1.

<Configuration for displaying displacement background image of small unit group>
Next, a configuration for displaying the displacement background image of the small unit group will be described.

  In the pachinko machine 10, a displacement background image of a small unit group is set as a kind of background image. The displacement background image of the small unit group is a background image that is displayed so that a large number of small unit images are displaced in a predetermined direction as time passes in front of the backmost image. A flower leaf image is set as the small unit image, but the present invention is not limited to this, and a rain image or a snow image may be set.

  Small unit group background data PD11 is set as image data for displaying the displacement background image of the small unit group. The small unit group background data PD11 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 21 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the small unit group background data PD11.

  The small unit group background data PD11 is not set as one image data, but is set as an aggregate of a plurality of divided data groups PD12 to PD15 as shown in FIG. Each of the divided data groups PD12 to PD15 has a plurality (for example, four) of divided parts data.

  Each of the divided data groups PD12 to PD15 has the same number of divided part data, and the order of reading out the images for one frame in each divided data group PD12 to PD15 is determined in advance. In other words, each divided part data set as the first order in each of the divided data groups PD12 to PD15 is arranged at a corresponding position, so that a displacement background image for one frame is displayed and the next order is displayed. The divided part data set as is arranged at corresponding positions, so that a displacement background image for the next frame is displayed. This is sequentially performed for each combination in order.

  A plurality of small unit image data are set in each divided part data. The data for these small unit images is set differently for each divided part data, and the combination of each divided part data is sequentially selected in the above-described predetermined order, so that FIG. As shown, each of the large number of small unit images is displayed so as to be displaced in a predetermined direction as time passes.

  A specific processing configuration for displaying the displacement background image of the small unit group will be described below. FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing a calculation process for displacement background executed by the display CPU 72. The displacement background calculation process is executed in the background calculation process of step S615 in the task process (FIG. 15).

  First, in step S901, the value of the part counter for specifying the order of the divided part data corresponding to the current frame is updated. This parts counter is provided in the work RAM 73. In subsequent step S902, the divided data group to be set is grasped. In grasping this, a target counter provided in the work RAM 73 is referred to.

  In subsequent step S903, the divided part data to be controlled is grasped from the information on the order indicated by the parts counter and the information on the divided data group to be the target indicated by the target counter. In the subsequent step S904, the parameter of the divided part data grasped in step S903 is calculated and derived, and the information of the derived parameter is written in an area secured corresponding to the divided part data in the work RAM 73. Update information for

  In a succeeding step S905, it is determined whether or not the setting of all divided parts data corresponding to the current order is completed. If the setting has not been completed, the target counter is updated in step S906, so that the setting target is updated to the next divided data group, and then the processing from step S902 is executed. On the other hand, if the setting has been completed, after the displacement background designation information is stored in step S907, the calculation process for the displacement background is terminated.

  When the above process is executed, each divided part data corresponding to the current order is set as a drawing target in the drawing list transmitted in the subsequent drawing list output process (step S408). In the drawing list, displacement background designation information is set. The VDP 76 that has received the drawing list draws each divided part data in the frame regions 82a and 82b according to the drawing list. Then, the output of the drawing list and the drawing corresponding thereto are repeatedly performed for each frame, so that an animation as shown in FIG. 21B is displayed on the display screen G.

  As described above, when displaying an animation that displaces a small unit group, instead of controlling each small unit group as an individual sprite, a still image in which a plurality of small unit images are set together is sequentially switched. Since the control is performed, the processing load of the parameter calculation process in the display CPU 72 is reduced. Therefore, the displacement background image of the small unit group can be displayed while suppressing the processing load on the display CPU 72.

  The number of divided data groups PD12 to PD15 and the number of divided part data assigned to each divided data group PD12 to PD15 are arbitrary as long as they are plural.

  Moreover, it is good also as a structure by which the division | segmentation part data is not allocated for every division | segmentation data group PD12-PD15, and the common division | segmentation data group in which many division | segmentation part data was set is provided. In this case, the divided part data may be distributed from the common divided data group to each divided position.

<Adding effect image>
Next, the effect image addition processing will be described with reference to FIG. FIGS. 23A to 23E are explanatory diagrams for explaining the effect image addition processing.

  An effect image is an image that represents a blast, an image that represents water splash, a light-emitting image that represents light being emitted from a light source, and an aura image that represents as if the surroundings of a character are emitting light. In addition, this is an image for enhancing the visual effect. Among these effect images, the image to be applied to the blast and the image to splash water is not limited, but the aura image is applied to a predetermined sprite.

  Specifically, effect data PD17 is set in correspondence with sprite data PD16 as shown in FIG. 23A, as shown in FIG. The sprite data PD16 includes an image area PA2 to be displayed on the display screen G as an individual image, and a frame area PA3 surrounding the image area PA2, and is defined to be rectangular as a whole. Yes. On the other hand, the effect data PD17 is defined along the outer edge of the image area PA2, and the effect area PA4 to be displayed on the display screen G as an effect image and the effect area PA4 so as to be rectangular as a whole. A frame area PA5 that defines an inner side and an outer side.

  Incidentally, the sprite data PD16 and the corresponding effect data PD17 are defined to have the same size and the same shape at the time of initial setting. In addition, since information of “0”, which is complete transmission information, is set as the α value in the pixels constituting each frame area PA3, PA5, the pixel area PA3 is not displayed on the display screen G. The effect area PA4 is a display target on the display screen G. However, the frame areas PA3 and PA5 may be hidden by using dedicated α data. Details of the α data will be described later.

  By applying the effect data PD17 to the sprite data PD16, as shown in FIG. 23 (c), an effect image CH2 is generated for the character CH1 as if the surrounding area is emitting light. . In this case, the effect image CH2 overlaps a part of the background image in front of it. On the other hand, since the sprite data PD16 and the effect data PD17 are individually set, the character CH1 alone can be displayed.

  The frame areas 82a and 82b in which the sprite data PD16 and the effect data PD17 are drawn include a large number of unit areas as described above, and an area for storing color information is set in each unit area. ing. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 23 (d), in each unit area 121, color information storage areas 121a to 121c each consisting of 1 byte are set in a one-to-one correspondence with each color of RGB. 256 colors can be set for each of RGB.

  The smaller the value of the numerical information stored in each of the color information storage areas 121a to 121c, the darker the color in RGB is finally displayed, and in the case of the minimum value, black is displayed. Further, the larger the value of the numerical information, the brighter the color is finally displayed in RGB, and in the case of the maximum value, white is displayed. In a configuration that can display only 256 colors instead of the full color system, the color information storage areas 121a to 121c need only be 1 byte.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 23E, color information including numerical information is set in each pixel 122 of the sprite data PD16 and the effect data PD17 using a palette table or the like. In this case, the color information set in each pixel 122 is data that can display only 256 colors, not full color. However, in order to perform drawing in the frame regions 82a and 82b favorably, each color of RGB Are set as information within the range of 1 byte.

  However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the color information storage areas 121a to 121c of each unit area 121 are set with 1 byte instead of 3 bytes, and in a configuration capable of displaying only 256 colors, each pixel 122 has The color information may be set to 1 byte.

  In addition to the color information, α value information is set for each pixel 122. A storage capacity of 1 byte is secured as information on the α value, but in reality, any numerical value information of “0 to 100” is set in decimal. The information on the α value is numerical information of “0 to 100”, which corresponds to the α value of “0 to 1”, and is treated as a value less than 1 in the calculation using the α value.

  When the color information of each pixel 122 is drawn in the unit area 121 to be drawn, the numerical information obtained by accumulating the α value for the RGB numerical information in each pixel 122 is used for storing color information in the unit area 121. It is stored for each of the areas 121a to 121c corresponding to RGB. In this case, when the α value is set as the opaque information with “1”, the color information of the pixel 122 is overwritten as it is on the corresponding unit area 121. On the other hand, when the α value is less than 1, a predetermined calculation using the α value is performed on the image superimposed on the back side of the display screen G, and the calculation result is obtained for the unit area 121. Written.

  In the case of the effect data PD17, an α value less than 1 is set for all pixels. Specifically, complete transmission information with an α value of “0” is set for all the pixels included in the frame area PA5, and semitransparent with 0 <α value <1 is set for each pixel included in the effect area PA4. Information is set. When the effect data PD17 is drawn in the frame areas 82a and 82b, an α value is set for the numerical information of each pixel of the effect data PD17 for each unit area 121 in the frame areas 82a and 82b to be drawn. The accumulated results are added.

  Hereinafter, a specific processing configuration for displaying an image using the sprite data PD16 and the effect data PD17 will be described. FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing the calculation process for the first effect effect executed by the display CPU 72. The calculation process for the first effect effect is executed in the effect calculation process in step S616 in the task process (FIG. 15). The calculation process for the first effect effect is activated when information about the first effect effect is set in the currently set data table.

  First, in step S1001, the sprite data PD16 included in the display area is grasped based on the currently set data table. In subsequent step S1002, the parameter of the sprite data PD16 grasped in step S1001 is calculated and derived, and the information of the derived parameter is written in an area secured in correspondence with the sprite data PD16 in the work RAM 73. Update information for

  In a succeeding step S1003, it is determined whether or not the effect data should be applied based on the currently set data table. If it is not necessary to apply the effect data, this calculation process is terminated as it is.

  When the calculation process for the first effect effect is executed as described above, in the subsequent drawing list output process (step S408), the sprite data PD16 is the drawing target, and further includes the parameter information of the sprite data PD16. A list is created and sent to the VDP 76.

  On the other hand, if it is necessary to apply the effect data PD17, the effect data PD17 to be applied this time is grasped in step S1004. In the subsequent step S1005, the same coordinates as those obtained for the application-target sprite data PD16 in step S1002 are grasped as the coordinates of the effect data PD17, and the work RAM 73 is allocated to the area secured corresponding to the effect data PD17. The information for control is updated by writing.

  In the subsequent step S1006, parameter information other than coordinates is calculated and derived for the effect data PD17, and the information for control is updated by writing the derived parameter information in the secured area. In this case, when the size and rotation angle of the sprite data PD16 to be applied are changed from those at the initial setting, the size and rotation angle of the effect data PD17 are adjusted so as to be the same as those. Thereafter, after the effect designation information is stored in step S1007, this calculation process is terminated.

  When the calculation process for the first effect effect is executed as described above, a drawing list in which both the sprite data PD16 and the effect data PD17 are set as drawing targets is created in the subsequent drawing list output process (step S408). Is done. The drawing list includes parameter information of each of the sprite data PD16 and the effect data PD17, and effect designation information indicating that the effect data PD17 should be applied. Then, the created drawing list is transmitted to the VDP 76.

  Next, the setting process for the first effect effect executed by the VDP 76 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. The setting process for the first effect effect is executed as a part of the content grasping process executed in step S504 of the drawing process (FIG. 13). Further, the setting process for the first effect effect is activated when the designation relating to the first effect effect is set in the drawing list.

  In step S1101, the current drawing target sprite data PD16 shown in the drawing list and the address to which the sprite data PD16 is transferred in the expansion buffer 81 of the VRAM 75 are grasped. In subsequent step S1102, the parameters of the sprite data PD16 are grasped.

  In the subsequent step S1103, it is determined whether or not effect designation information is set in association with the sprite data PD16 in the drawing list. If the effect designation information is not set, this setting process is terminated as it is.

  On the other hand, when the effect designation information is set, in step S1104, the effect data PD17 to be drawn together with the sprite data PD16 is grasped, and the effect data PD17 is transferred in the expansion buffer 81 of the VRAM 75. Know the address you have. Thereafter, in step S1105, after grasping the parameters of the effect data PD17, the setting process is terminated.

  That is, the effect data PD17 is set in association with the application-target sprite data PD16 in the drawing list, and is simultaneously processed in the processing times for processing the application-target sprite data PD16. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the effect data PD17 may be set independently of the application-target sprite data PD16 in the drawing list. Even in this case, as described above, since the parameters are set solely for the effect data PD17, the effect data PD17 can be drawn in the frame regions 82a and 82b to be drawn.

  Incidentally, by handling the sprite data PD16 and the effect data PD17 separately, as described above, the character CH1 alone corresponding to the sprite data PD16 can be displayed using the same sprite data PD16. In addition, it is possible to display the character CH1 to which the effect image CH2 is applied.

  When the setting process for the first effect effect is executed, the sprite data PD16 is applied in the state where the above parameters are applied to the drawing target frame regions 82a and 82b in the subsequent writing process (step S505). The effect data PD17 is drawn.

  Next, the first effect addition process executed by the VDP 76 when the effect data PD17 is drawn will be described. FIG. 26A is a flowchart showing the first effect addition process, and FIG. 26B is an explanatory diagram for explaining the state of the first effect addition process. The first effect addition process is executed as a part of the writing process executed in step S505 of the drawing process (FIG. 13). The first effect addition process is started when the effect data PD17 is set.

  First, in step S1201, a target pixel update process is executed. In the target pixel update process, a process for updating the pixel to be rendered this time in the effect data PD17 is executed. Specifically, the pixel update counter set in the register 92 is updated so that the drawing target advances by one pixel.

  In subsequent step S1202, the numerical information stored in the dot (that is, the unit area) in which the current target pixel is drawn in the frame regions 82a and 82b is read and grasped. In this case, as shown by “r1”, “g1”, and “b1” in FIG. 26 (b-1), each numerical value information of RGB is grasped.

  In the subsequent step S1203, numerical information set for the current target pixel in the effect data PD17 is grasped. This numerical information is numerical information obtained as a result of accumulating numerical value information of α values with respect to RGB numerical information. That is, each numerical value information of RGB is grasped as indicated by “α × r2”, “α × g2”, and “α × b2” in FIG.

In addition, in the integration, an operation is performed so that the α value defined as a decimal value of “0 to 100” functions as “0.00 to 1.00”, which is a value of 1 or less, Furthermore, the value is rounded down or rounded off so that the result of integration does not include a value after the decimal point. The handling of the α value and the numerical values after the decimal point are the same in the following description. In addition, the α value is determined as a decimal value of “0 to 10”, and the calculation is performed so that it functions as “0.0 to 1.0” which is a value of 1 or less. Good.

  In subsequent step S1204, the RGB numerical value information grasped in step S1202 and the RGB numerical value information grasped in step S1203 are added. Thereby, as shown in FIG. 26 (b-3), each numerical value information of RGB becomes “r1 + α × r2”, “g1 + α × g2”, “b1 + α × b2”. In subsequent step S1205, each numerical value information of RGB calculated in step S1204 is written in the current target dot.

  Thereafter, in step S1206, it is determined whether drawing has been completed for all the pixels of the effect data PD17. If not completed, the processing from step S1201 to step S1205 is repeated. If it has been completed, this addition process is terminated.

  By executing the addition process, the effect image CH2 corresponding to the effect data PD17 reflects the color information and the degree of brightness of the image (for example, background image) on which the effect image CH2 is superimposed. Is displayed. As described above, the effect image CH2 is an image that transmits the back-side object such as light and water droplets, and thus, when displayed independently of the background image, a sense of incongruity occurs. On the other hand, by performing the addition process as described above, the effect image CH2 is displayed in a state in which the background image is reflected, which is visually preferable without causing the sense of incongruity. Become.

  Note that the specific process of reflecting the back-side individual image when displaying the near-side individual image is not limited to the addition process, and other calculation processes can be performed as long as the reflection can be performed satisfactorily. May be configured to be executed.

  In addition, after the image data corresponding to the individual image on the back side is set in the frame regions 82a and 82b, the addition processing of the image data corresponding to the individual image on the near side to the frame regions 82a and 82b is executed. Alternatively, the image data resulting from the addition process may be set in the frame regions 82a and 82b.

<Effect image partial addition processing>
Next, the effect image partial addition process will be described.

  When an effect image is applied as described above, an addition process is executed. However, when a bright effect image is superimposed on a bright image, each numerical value of RGB is displayed in the unit areas of the frame regions 82a and 82b. The information may become the maximum value, and may be displayed in a white color that deviates from the designer's intention (so-called whiteout occurs). On the other hand, in this pachinko machine 10, in order to suppress the occurrence of the overexposure, partial addition is performed when displaying a predetermined effect image.

  With regard to the data structure for performing the partial addition, referring to FIG. 27 (a), an effect that is handled independently of the character sprite data, such as an image representing a blast or an image representing water splash, is taken as an example. While explaining. FIG. 27A is an explanatory diagram for explaining a data configuration for performing partial addition.

  As shown in FIG. 27 (a-1), the effect data PD18 to which partial addition is applied includes an effect area PA6 that includes a plurality of pixels and is to be displayed on the display screen G as an effect image, and is entirely rectangular. And a frame area PA7 that defines the periphery of the effect area PA6 so as to have a shape. As described above, each pixel constituting the effect area PA6 includes color information having numerical information corresponding to each of RGB and information of α value integrated with each numerical information of the color information. Is set. It should be noted that “0”, which is complete transmission information, is set as the α value for each pixel constituting the frame area PA7.

  In correspondence with the effect data PD18 on a one-to-one basis, as shown in FIG. 27 (a-2), partial addition data PD19 defined so that the size and outer shape at the time of initial setting are the same as the effect data PD18. Is set. The partial addition data PD19 includes an effect corresponding area PA8 that is defined to have the same shape and the same number of pixels as the effect area PA6 of the effect data PD18, and the periphery of the effect corresponding area PA8 so as to be rectangular as a whole. And a frame corresponding area PA9 that defines

  Unlike the effect area PA6 of the effect data PD18, color information is not set for each pixel constituting the effect corresponding area PA8, and only α value information is set. By the way, the information of α value set for each pixel is individually set according to the execution target of partial addition, and if there are pixels with the same α value information set to each other, There are also pixels for which information of different α values is set. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the α value set for each pixel may be the same.

  When the partial addition is performed, first, the partial addition data PD19 is applied to each dot (that is, each unit area) on which the effect data PD18 is drawn in the drawing target frame regions 82a and 82b. Thereafter, effect data PD18 is drawn for each dot. A specific processing configuration in which the drawing is performed will be described below.

  FIG. 27B is a flowchart showing a calculation process for the second effect effect executed by the display CPU 72. The calculation process for the second effect effect is executed in the effect calculation process in step S616 in the task process (FIG. 15). The calculation process for the second effect effect is activated when information about the second effect effect is set in the currently set data table.

  First, in step S1301, the effect data PD18 to be rendered this time is grasped based on the currently set data table. In the subsequent step S1302, the parameter of the effect data PD18 grasped in step S1301 is calculated and derived, and the information of the derived parameter is written in an area secured corresponding to the effect data PD18 in the work RAM 73. Update information for

  In subsequent step S1303, based on the currently set data table, partial addition data PD19 to be applied this time is grasped. In the following step S1304, the same coordinates as the coordinates obtained for the application target effect data PD18 in step S1302 are grasped as the coordinates of the partial addition data PD19, and the information on the grasped coordinates is added to the partial addition in the work RAM 73. The control information is updated by writing in the area secured corresponding to the data PD19.

  In subsequent step S1305, information on parameters other than coordinates is derived from the partial addition data PD19, and the information on the derived parameters is written in the reserved area to update the control information. In this case, when the size and rotation angle of the effect data PD18 to be applied are changed from those at the time of initial setting, the size and rotation angle of the partial addition data PD19 are adjusted so as to be the same as those. . Thereafter, after the partial addition designation information is stored in step S1306, this calculation process is terminated.

  When the calculation process for the second effect presentation is executed as described above, in the subsequent drawing list output process (step S408), the drawing list in which both the effect data PD18 and the partial addition data PD19 are set as drawing targets. Is created. Further, the drawing list includes parameter information of the effect data PD18 and partial addition data PD19, and partial addition designation information indicating that the partial addition data PD19 should be applied. The created drawing list is transmitted to the VDP 76.

  Next, the setting process for the second effect effect executed by the VDP 76 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. The setting process for the second effect effect is executed as a part of the content grasping process executed in step S504 of the drawing process (FIG. 13). The setting process for the second effect effect is activated when partial addition designation is set in the drawing list.

  In step S1401, the present application target partial addition data PD19 shown in the drawing list and the address to which the partial addition data PD19 is transferred in the expansion buffer 81 of the VRAM 75 are grasped. In subsequent step S1402, the parameter of the partial addition data PD19 is grasped.

  In the subsequent step S1403, the current drawing target effect data PD18 shown in the drawing list and the address to which the effect data PD18 is transferred in the expansion buffer 81 of the VRAM 75 are grasped. Thereafter, in step S1404, after grasping the parameters of the effect data PD18, the setting process is terminated.

  That is, the partial addition data PD19 is set in association with the effect data PD18 to be applied in the drawing list, and is processed at the same time in the processing time for processing the effect data PD18 to be applied. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the partial addition data PD19 may be set independently of the application target effect data PD18 in the drawing list. In this case, since the parameter is set solely for the partial addition data PD19, the partial addition is only required if the drawing order is set so that the partial addition data PD19 is processed before the effect data PD18. It is possible to appropriately draw the data PD19 in the frame areas 82a and 82b to be drawn.

  By executing the setting process for the second effect effect, in the subsequent writing process (step S505), the partial addition is performed with the above parameters applied to the frame areas 82a and 82b to be drawn. Data PD19 and the effect data PD18 are drawn.

  Next, the second effect addition process executed by the VDP 76 when the partial addition data PD19 and the effect data PD18 are drawn will be described. FIG. 29A is a flowchart showing the second effect addition process, and FIG. 29B is an explanatory diagram for explaining the state of the second effect addition process. The second effect addition process is executed as a part of the writing process executed in step S505 of the drawing process (FIG. 13). The second effect addition process is activated when the partial addition data PD19 is set.

  First, in step S1501, a target pixel update process is executed. In the update process of the target pixel, a process for updating the pixel to be rendered this time in the partial addition data PD19 and the effect data PD18 is executed. Specifically, the pixel update counter set in the register 92 is updated so that the drawing target advances by one pixel.

  In subsequent step S1502, the numerical information stored in the dot (that is, the unit area) in which the current target pixel is drawn in the frame regions 82a and 82b is read and grasped. In this case, as indicated by “r3”, “g3”, and “b3” in FIG. 29 (b-1), each numerical value information of RGB is grasped.

  In the subsequent step S1503, the α value set for the current target pixel in the partial addition data PD19 is grasped. In this case, as shown in FIG. 29 (b-2), “α1” is set as the α value.

  In subsequent step S1504, the α value grasped in step S1503 is integrated with respect to each numerical value information of RGB grasped in step S1502. As a result, as shown in FIG. 29 (b-3), the RGB numerical information corresponding to the integration result becomes “α1 × r3”, “α1 × g3”, and “α1 × b3”.

  In subsequent step S1505, numerical information set for the current target pixel in the effect data PD18 is grasped. This numerical information is each numerical information obtained as a result of integrating the numerical value information of α value predetermined for the pixel with respect to each numerical value information of RGB. That is, as shown in FIG. 29 (b-4), each numerical value information of RGB is “α2 × r4”, “α2 × g4”, “α2 × b4”.

  In subsequent step S1506, the numerical value information of RGB grasped in step S1505 and the information of each integration result of RGB grasped in step S1504 are added. As a result, as shown in FIG. 29 (b-6), each numerical value information of RGB becomes “α1 × r3 + α2 × r4”, “α1 × g3 + α2 × g4”, “α1 × b3 + α2 × b4”. In subsequent step S1507, the numerical value information of RGB calculated in step S1506 is written in the current target dot.

  Thereafter, in step S1508, it is determined whether drawing has been completed for all pixels of the partial addition data PD19 and the effect data PD18. If not completed, the processing from step S1501 to step S1507 is repeated. If it has been completed, this addition process is terminated.

  After the addition process is executed, the numerical information already stored in the unit area where the effect data PD18 is drawn is reduced to a value corresponding to the α value of the partial addition data PD19. The numerical information obtained as a result of adding the numerical information of the effect data PD18 to the numerical information is set. Thereby, after rendering of the effect data PD18, it is possible to suppress the numerical value information of RGB in the unit areas of the frame regions 82a and 82b from being the maximum value, and it is possible to suppress the occurrence of overexposure.

  For example, when the numerical information and the α value of the effect data PD18 are suppressed, the effect image becomes familiar with the image to be superimposed, and the visual effect cannot be enhanced by the effect image. On the other hand, since the numerical information of the superimposed image is suppressed by the partial addition data PD19, occurrence of overexposure can be suppressed while enhancing the effect image.

  In addition, a configuration in which numerical information of images to be superimposed is originally set to be suppressed is also conceivable, but in this case, when the image is used without an effect image applied, the numerical information is supported. Limited to color information. On the other hand, by setting the partial addition data PD19 separately as described above, it is difficult to generate restrictions on the superimposed image.

  Further, the partial addition data PD19 has a configuration in which numerical information corresponding to the color information is not set, and numerical information corresponding to the α value is set. Therefore, the data capacity of the partial addition data PD19 is the effect. It is smaller than the data PD18. Therefore, the above excellent effects can be achieved while suppressing the storage capacity required in the NAND flash memory 102.

  Note that a technique other than the technique of applying the partial addition data PD19 may be adopted as a technique for reducing the ratio of reflecting the individual image on the back side. For example, in the configuration in which the α value of the image data can be manipulated in units of pixels in the processing of the VDP 76, the numerical information in the corresponding portion of the individual image on the back side is reduced by a predetermined ratio in the processing of the VDP 76 Also good.

  In addition, in the individual image on the back side, the area other than the overlapping part with the individual image on the near side will be affected, but there is a configuration in which a uniform α value for partial addition is set for the individual image on the back side. Conceivable.

  Further, in the configuration in which the limit values of the frame regions 82a and 82b are the darkest and the minimum value is the brightest, the above-described addition processing is used instead of the above-described addition process so that the individual image on the back side is reflected in the individual image on the near side The subtraction process needs to be executed. In order to suppress overexposure, partial subtraction data needs to be applied instead of the partial addition data PD19.

Instead of the above configuration, not only the α value but also numerical information corresponding to the color information may be set in the partial addition data PD19. In this case, in step S1503 in the second effect addition process, the α value and numerical value information of the target pixel in the partial addition data are grasped, and in step S1504, a fusion calculation process is executed instead of the integration process. . Specifically, when the α value of the partial addition data PD19 is α1, and the color information of the partial addition data PD19 is “r5, g5, b5”, in step S1504,
R: r3 × (1−α1) + r5 × α1
G: g3 × (1−α1) + g5 × α1
B: b3 × (1−α1) + b5 × α1
The calculation for fusion is performed.

And by performing the process of step S1505-step S1507 with respect to the said calculation result,
R: r3 × (1−α1) + r5 × α1 + α2 × r4
G: g3 × (1−α1) + g5 × α1 + α2 × g4
B: b3 × (1−α1) + b5 × α1 + α2 × b4
It becomes.

  Even when the partial addition data PD19 in which numerical information corresponding to the color information is set as described above is used, the timing before rendering the effect data by executing the fusion processing is performed. Since the numerical information already stored in is reduced, the occurrence of overexposure can be suppressed.

<Combined data with multiple effect images>
Next, a configuration for creating composite data in which a plurality of effect images are combined will be described.

  As described above, a plurality of effect images may be displayed in an image for one frame in order to enhance the visual effect. For example, an image representing a blast and a luminescent image may be displayed at the same time. In this case, the pachinko machine 10 has a function of separately storing each effect data originally set individually in a combined state. Specific processing for creating the composite data and specific processing for using the composite data will be described below.

  FIG. 30 is a flowchart showing a calculation process for multi-effect effects executed by the display CPU 72. The calculation process for the multi-effect effect is executed in the effect calculation process in step S616 in the task process (FIG. 15). The calculation process for the multiple effect effects is activated when information on the multiple effect effects is set in the currently set data table.

  First, in step S1601, it is determined whether or not composite data has been created in the VDP 76. This determination is made by determining whether or not the created determination flag is set in the work RAM 73, but the present invention is not limited to this, and composite data is created in the currently set data table. It may be configured that information on whether or not completed is set.

  If composite data has not been created, a plurality of effect data to be applied this time are grasped based on the currently set data table in step S1602. In the subsequent step S1603, the parameter of each effect data grasped in step S1602 is calculated and derived, and the information of the derived parameter is written in an area secured corresponding to each effect data in the work RAM 73. Update information for In subsequent step S1604, the multi-effect effect designation information is stored.

  In a succeeding step S1605, it is determined whether or not it is the generation timing of the composite data. Specifically, a plurality of types of timings at which a plurality of effect effects are performed are set, and at each of these timings, there are a timing when the number of individual images other than the effect images is relatively large and the processing load on the VDP 76 is large, and effects There is a timing when the number of individual images other than images is relatively small and the processing load on the VDP 76 is small. The synthetic data creation timing is a timing when the processing load is small.

  If it is determined that it is not the timing for creating the composite data (step S1605: NO), this calculation process is terminated. If it is determined that it is the creation timing of the composite data (step S1605: YES), after the composite data creation designation information is stored in step S1606, this calculation process is terminated.

  When the calculation process for multiple effect production is executed as described above, in the subsequent drawing list output process (step S408), a plurality of sprite data is a drawing target, and further, a drawing list including parameter information of these sprite data Is created. In addition, the drawing list includes multiple effect production designation information that is information indicating that multiple effect production should be executed. Further, when the composite data creation designation information is stored, the drawing list includes composite data creation designation information that is information indicating that composite data should be created.

  On the other hand, if the composite data has been created (step S1601: YES), in step S1607, the composite data to be applied this time is grasped. In the subsequent step S1608, the parameters of the composite data grasped in step S1607 are calculated and grasped.

  In subsequent step S1609, additional effect data is grasped based on information set as a case where composite data has already been created in the currently set data table. In subsequent step S1610, the parameter of the additional effect data grasped in step S1609 is calculated and derived, and the information of the derived parameter is written in the area secured in correspondence with the additional effect data in the work RAM 73 for control. Update the information. That is, when composite data is applied, the display CPU 72 and the VDP 76 have a margin for the processing time for drawing, and the additional effect data is set using the processing time.

  Thereafter, the multi-effect effect designation information is stored in step S1611, and the composite data use designation information is stored in step S1612. Then, the calculation process ends.

  When the calculation process for multiple effect production is executed as described above, in the subsequent drawing list output process (step S408), the composite data and the additional effect data are to be drawn. A drawing list including parameter information is created. In addition, the drawing list includes plural effect effect designation information, and also includes synthetic data use designation information that is information indicating that synthetic data should be used.

  Next, the setting process for multi-effect effects executed by the VDP 76 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. Note that the setting process for multiple effect effects is executed as a part of the content grasping process executed in step S504 of the drawing process (FIG. 13). In addition, when a multiple effect effect designation is set in the drawing list, the setting process for the multiple effect effect is activated.

  In step S1701, it is determined whether or not composite data use designation is set in the drawing list. If the composite data use designation is not set, in step S1702, a plurality of effect data designated as the current rendering target and the addresses to which these effect data are transferred in the expansion buffer 81 of the VRAM 75 are displayed. To grasp. That is, when a plurality of effect data are drawn simultaneously, the effect data are not set individually in the drawing list, but are set to be processed simultaneously in one processing time.

  In subsequent step S1703, parameters of each effect data are grasped. Thereafter, in step S1704, it is determined whether or not composite data creation designation is set. If the composite data creation designation is not set, this setting process is terminated as it is. If composite data creation designation is set, the process advances to step S1705.

  In step S1705, composite data is created in a state where each parameter grasped in step S1704 is applied to the plurality of effect data grasped in step S1702. Thereafter, the setting process ends.

  Here, as shown in FIG. 31B, a composite data area 81c is set in the development buffer 81 of the VRAM 75. The composite data created in step S2305 is written in the composite data area 81c. The composite data area 81c stores and holds the written composite data while the power supply to the VRAM 75 is continued, and when other image data is transferred from the NAND flash memory 102 to the VRAM 75. This area is not subject to overwriting. Therefore, the composite data once created is stored and held until the power supply to the VRAM 75 is cut off.

  By executing the setting process for multi-effect production as described above, in the subsequent writing process (step S505), the respective parameters are applied to the drawing target frame regions 82a and 82b. Each effect data is drawn. An effect image using each effect data is displayed on the display screen G by outputting an image signal to the symbol display device 31 based on the drawing data.

  On the other hand, if composite data use designation is set in the drawing list (step S1701: YES), in step S1706, the composite data specified as the current drawing target and the composite data in the composite data area 81c. Know the address where is stored. In subsequent step S1707, the parameters of the combined data are grasped.

  In subsequent step S1708, the additional effect data designated as the current rendering target and the address to which the additional effect data is transferred in the expansion buffer 81 of the VRAM 75 are grasped. In other words, when composite data and additional effect data are drawn simultaneously, the composite data and additional effect data are not set individually in the drawing list, but are set to be processed simultaneously in one processing time. Has been. Thereafter, in step S1709, after grasping the parameters of the additional effect data, this setting process is terminated.

  By executing the setting process for multiple effect production as described above, in the subsequent writing process (step S505), the composite data with the parameters applied to the drawing target frame regions 82a and 82b. Is drawn, and additional effect data is drawn with the parameters applied. Then, by outputting an image signal to the symbol display device 31 based on the drawing data, an effect image using the combined data and the additional effect data is displayed on the display screen G.

  As described above, composite data for displaying a plurality of effect images at the same time is created, and when the subsequent use is performed, the composite data is used so that a plurality of effect data can be obtained each time the execution timing of a plurality of effect effects is reached. The processing load on the display CPU 72 and the VDP 76 can be reduced compared to the configuration for drawing.

  In particular, since the display CPU 72 issues a composite data creation instruction at a timing when the processing load on the VDP 76 is small, it is possible to create composite data while avoiding a processing drop in the VDP 76.

  Further, when a plurality of effect effects are executed using the composite data, an additional effect image using the additional effect data is displayed using the fact that there is a margin in processing time. As a result, more effect images can be applied, and the visual effect of the effect images can be enhanced.

  In addition, the storage capacity required for effect data in the NAND flash memory 102 can be reduced compared to a configuration in which the composite data is stored in the NAND flash memory 102 in advance. Further, since the composite data is created using the effect data set individually, it is possible to use the effect data individually.

  Further, since the composite data is stored in the composite data area 81c after creation, the composite data can be used for a plurality of non-continuous frames after the composite data is created.

  Further, the composite data is created in accordance with each effect data constituting the composite data when it is used for display. Thus, it is not necessary to set the processing timing for creating the composite data separately from the image display.

  Further, the composite data is created after the parameter information is applied to each effect data constituting the composite data. As a result, when composite data is used, parameter information may be derived and applied to the composite data, and it is not necessary to derive and apply parameter information to each effect data constituting the composite data. Therefore, the processing load when using the composite data can be reduced.

  It should be noted that when multiple effect effects are executed using the composite data, the additional effect data may not be drawn. Even in this case, it is easy to adjust the processing time in the display CPU 72 and the VDP 76 by creating the composite data.

  The synthesized data may be created at a timing different from the timing at which each effect data is used for display, such as when the power of the pachinko machine 10 is turned on.

<Partial display of individual images using α data>
Next, a configuration for performing partial display of individual images using α data will be described.

  As already described, the α data is transmission information applied in units of pixels of background data and sprite data, and is stored in advance in the NAND flash memory 102 as image data. α data is set individually for image data that defines individual images, such as background data and sprite data. However, overall α data and partial α data are set for design sprite data. Has been.

  The overall α data and partial α data will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 32 is an explanatory diagram for explaining α data. FIG. 32A shows symbol sprite data PD20 corresponding to a predetermined symbol, and FIG. 32B is set in association with the symbol sprite data PD20. 32 (c) shows a case where the overall α data PD21 is applied to the symbol sprite data PD20, and FIGS. 32 (d) to (g) are associated with the symbol sprite data PD20. The set partial α data PD22 to PD25 are shown.

  As shown in FIG. 32A, the symbol sprite data PD20 includes an image area PA10 to be displayed on the display screen G as an individual image, and a frame area PA11 surrounding the image area PA10. The frame area PA11 allows the display CPU 72 and the VDP 76 to handle the symbol sprite data PD20 as image data defined in a rectangular shape regardless of the outer edge shape of the image area PA10, thereby facilitating the designation of coordinates.

  As shown in FIG. 32 (b), the size of the overall α data PD21 is set so that its outer shape matches the symbol sprite data PD20 to be applied. The overall α data PD21 includes an image corresponding area PA12 occupying the inside of the outer edge part, and a frame corresponding area PA13 occupying the outer edge part, with the outer edge part of the image area PA10 in the design sprite data PD20 to be applied as a boundary. It has.

  For each pixel included in the frame corresponding area PA13, “0”, which is complete transmission information, is set as an α value. On the other hand, “1”, which is non-transparent information, is set as the α value for each pixel included in the image corresponding area PA12 excluding the outer edge portion, and the α value is set for each pixel included in the outer edge portion. 0 <α value <1, which is partial transmission information, is set.

  By applying the overall α data PD21 to the design sprite data PD20, the α value of each pixel included in the image corresponding area PA12 is applied to each pixel included in the image area PA10, and the frame area PA11. The α value of each pixel included in the frame corresponding area PA13 is applied to each pixel included in.

  In this case, as described above, the size of the overall α data PD21 is set so that its outer shape matches the symbol sprite data PD20 to be applied. Therefore, by setting the two data PD20 and 21 so that the size and rotation angle of the two data PD20 and 21 are the same, and the reference pixel such as the center one pixel is overlapped, the overall α data PD21 for the symbol sprite data PD20 is set. Application can be performed, and the processing load related to the setting can be reduced. The same applies to the partial α data PD22 to PD25.

Further, when the symbol sprite data PD20 to which the overall α data PD21 is applied is overlapped with the image data overlapping on the back side of the display screen G, each dot related to the overlap is determined by the overall α data PD21. The numerical information is fused (that is, blended) based on the α value. In particular,
R: “R value of back side image” × (“1” − “α value”) + “R value of front side image” × “α value”
G: “G value of back side image” × (“1” − “α value”) + “G value of front side image” × “α value”
B: “B value of back side image” × (“1” − “α value”) + “B value of front side image” × “α value”
It becomes. The same applies to the partial α data PD22 to PD25.

  By applying the overall α data PD21, as shown in FIG. 32 (c), the frame pattern PA11 is in a completely transparent state in the applied pattern CH3, and only the image area PA10 is visible. Further, jaggy generated in the outline of the symbol CH3 is reduced, and the color can be smoothly changed so that the outline of the symbol CH3 is fused with the background. That is, it becomes possible to perform anti-aliasing.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIGS. 32D to 32G, the sizes of the partial α data PD22 to PD25 are set so that the outer shape thereof matches the symbol sprite data PD20 to be applied. The partial α data PD22 to PD25 include a partial image corresponding region PA14 that occupies the inside of the outer edge portion, with the outer edge portion corresponding to a part of the image region PA10 in the design target sprite data PD20 as a boundary, and the outer edge portion. And a corresponding area PA15 other than a part occupying the outside of the area.

  “0”, which is complete transmission information, is set as an α value for each pixel included in the corresponding area PA15 except for a part. On the other hand, in each of the pixels corresponding to the partial image corresponding area PA14, “1” that is non-transparent information is set as an α value for each pixel included in the portion excluding the outer edge portion, and α included in each pixel included in the outer edge portion As a value, 0 <α value <1, which is partial transmission information, is set.

  Each of the partial α data PD22 to PD25 is different in a portion corresponding to the partial image corresponding area PA14 in the image area PA10 of the symbol sprite data PD20. Specifically, the partial α data PD22 in FIG. 32D corresponds to a quarter of the destination when the image area PA10 is variably displayed, and the partial α data in FIG. 32E. The data PD23 corresponds to the half on the destination side, the partial α data PD24 in FIG. 32 (f) corresponds to the half on the source side, and the partial α data PD25 in FIG. It corresponds to 1/4 of the original side.

  The partial α data PD22 to PD25 set for one symbol sprite data PD20 is not limited to four, and may be two, three, or five or more. Moreover, the number may be one. The combination of the overall α data and the plurality of partial α data is set in a one-to-one correspondence with each type of symbol sprite data.

  By using the α data PD22 to PD25 for each part, it is possible to display a part of the symbol. Even when partial display is performed in this way, jaggy that occurs in the outline of the symbol is reduced within the range of the partial display, and the color changes smoothly so that the outline of the symbol merges with the background. It becomes possible to make it. That is, even when partial display is performed, antialiasing can be performed.

  Hereinafter, processing in the display CPU 72 and the VDP 76 when α data is applied will be described.

  First, the symbol calculation process executed by the display CPU 72 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. Note that the symbol calculation process is a process executed in step S617 of the task process (FIG. 15), as described above, and calculates various parameters for symbols that are subject to variable display in each game round. This is a process to derive.

  In step S1801, it is determined whether it is time to execute partial display. Whether or not it is the timing is determined by referring to the information specified by the current pointer in the currently set data table.

  If it is not time to execute partial display (partial display), in step S1802, the symbol sprite data to be controlled this time is grasped. In subsequent step S1803, various parameters such as coordinates, size, and rotation angle are calculated and derived for all the recognized symbol sprite data, and information on the derived parameters is secured in the work RAM 73 in correspondence with the symbol sprite data. The control information is updated by writing in the designated area.

  In subsequent step S1804, overall α data corresponding to each of the symbol sprite data acquired in step S1802 is acquired. In this case, the expansion buffer 81 of the VRAM 75 also grasps information on the address to which each overall α data is transferred. Thereafter, in step S1805, the combination designation information is stored in the register, and then the symbol calculation process is terminated.

  When the symbol calculation processing is executed as described above, in the subsequent drawing list output processing (step S408), the symbol sprite data grasped in step S1802 is the drawing target, and the parameter information of each symbol sprite data. A drawing list including the type and address of the overall α data and the combination designation information indicating that the overall α data should be applied to the corresponding symbol sprite data is created and transmitted to the VDP 76.

  On the other hand, if it is time to execute partial display (step S1801: YES), the coordinates and size of the partial display area are grasped in step S1806. The partial display area is an area that is displayed so as to divide a part of the display screen G (see an area partitioned by a frame indicated by reference numeral PL5 in FIG. 34B).

  In the subsequent step S1807, the symbol sprite data currently displayed on the display screen G including the partial display area is grasped. In this pachinko machine 10, when displaying the partial display area, the design is displayed only in the partial display area, and the background and effect characters are displayed on the display screen G outside the partial display area. Is not displayed. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a configuration may be adopted in which symbols are displayed outside the partial display area.

  In subsequent step S1808, various parameters such as coordinates, size, and rotation angle are calculated and derived for all of the symbol sprite data grasped in step S1807, and information on the derived parameters is associated with the symbol sprite data in the work RAM 73. The information for control is updated by writing in the reserved area. In this case, the size information is calculated so that the symbols displayed in the partial display area are displayed in a size smaller than the normal display state in which the partial display area is not displayed.

  In a succeeding step S1809, it is determined whether or not the partial α data needs to be set. If it is necessary to set the partial α data, in step S1810, the partial α data corresponding to the symbol sprite data that needs to be set and corresponding to the creation target of the current drawing list Grasp alpha data. In this case, the expansion buffer 81 of the VRAM 75 also grasps information on the address to which each partial α data is transferred.

  If a negative determination is made in step S1809 or after the processing in step S1810 is executed, it is determined in step S1811 whether or not the overall α data needs to be set. Even if the symbol sprite is displayed in the partial display area, it is necessary to set the overall α data for those that are not applicable for the partial α data. In this case, an affirmative determination is made in step S1811. do. If it is necessary to set the overall α data, the process of step S1804 is executed to grasp the overall α data.

  Regardless of whether the overall α data is grasped or not grasped in step S1804, the symbol designating process is terminated after the combination designation information is finally stored in step S1805.

  When the symbol calculation process is executed as described above, in the subsequent drawing list output process (step S408), in addition to the information described as the case where only the overall α data is applied, a partial display area should be set. A drawing list is created that includes information, parameter information of the partial display area, the type and address of the partial alpha data, and combination designation information indicating that the partial alpha data should be applied to the corresponding symbol sprite data And transmitted to the VDP 76.

  Incidentally, in the drawing list, not only the data content corresponding to the image displayed in the partial display area but also the data corresponding to the background and effect characters displayed outside the partial display area are set. In this case, the image displayed in the partial display area is displayed as if it is present on the front side of the display screen G compared to the image displayed outside the partial display area. The image data corresponding to the outside of the partial display area is first, and the image data corresponding to the partial display area is later.

  Next, symbol sprite data setting processing executed by the VDP 76 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. The design sprite data setting process is executed in the content grasping process executed in step S504 of the drawing process (FIG. 13). Also, the symbol sprite data setting process is started when the synthesis designation is set in the drawing list.

  In step S1901, the current drawing target symbol sprite data shown in the drawing list is grasped. In a succeeding step S1902, it is determined whether or not the overall α data is applied to the symbol sprite data grasped in the step S1901.

  When applying the overall α data, in step S1903, the overall α data is read from the designated address, and synthesized with the symbol sprite data read from the designated address. Thus, the α value set for each pixel of the overall α data is applied to each corresponding pixel in the symbol sprite data. Incidentally, when synthesizing the overall α data, the overall α data overlaps with the entire symbol sprite data. The same applies to the partial α data.

  On the other hand, when the partial α data is applied, in step S1904, the partial α data is read from the designated address and is synthesized with the symbol sprite data read from the designated address. Thereby, the α value set for each pixel of the partial α data is applied to each corresponding pixel in the symbol sprite data.

  After executing Step S1903 or Step S1904, the process proceeds to Step S1905. In step S1905, various parameters (coordinates, size, rotation angle, etc.) to be referred to when the composite sprite data created in step S1903 or step S1904 is written in the frame regions 82a and 82b are grasped. Thereafter, the setting process ends.

  Various parameters grasped in step S1905 are information set for the symbol sprite data grasped in step S1901. That is, information on various parameters necessary for writing to the frame regions 82a and 82b is set for the symbol sprite data, but is not set for the overall α data and the partial α data. Information on various parameters set for the data is applied to the composite sprite data. As a result, the amount of information specified in the drawing list can be reduced and the processing load on the display CPU 72 can be reduced as compared to the configuration in which various parameter information is set for the overall α data and the partial α data. It is done.

  Incidentally, when the design sprite data for which the above setting process has been completed is written in the frame areas 82a and 82b, the background data and the effect data already written in the frame areas 82a and 82b have already been described. An operation for blending (blending operation) is performed.

  Next, how a part of the symbol is displayed using the partial display area PL5 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 34B is an explanatory diagram for explaining a state in which a part of the symbols is displayed.

  As shown in FIG. 34 (b), the partial display area PL 5 is displayed as a range smaller than the display screen G at a position near the corner of the display screen G. Further, the outer edge of the partial display area PL5 is not in contact with the outer edge of the display screen G, and a gap is formed between all the outer edges of the partial display area PL5 and the outer edge of the display screen G.

  In the partial display area PL5, the symbols CH3 and CH4 are displayed in a variable direction in a predetermined direction. The predetermined direction is the same as that in the case of performing variable display of symbols on the symbol rows Z1 to Z3 without displaying the partial display area PL5, but may be different directions.

  The symbols CH3 and CH4 variably displayed in the partial display area PL5 are displayed so as to appear from a predetermined side of the partial display area PL5 and disappear from the opposite side. In this case, the symbols CH3 and CH4 are partially displayed so as not to protrude from the partial display area PL5.

  Incidentally, although omitted in FIG. 34B for convenience of explanation, in the area outside the partial display area PL5 on the display screen G, a predetermined background and an image of a character for presentation are displayed. In this case, the images of the predetermined background and effect character are displayed between the peripheral edge of the display screen G and the peripheral edge of the partial display area PL5 in the corner portion where the partial display area PL5 is set. You may make it do. Further, a predetermined background or effect character image may be displayed on both sides of the partial display area PL5.

  As described above, by combining the partial α data with the symbol, the symbol can be partially displayed using the α data that can be anti-aliased.

  Further, as already described, the display CPU 72 and the VDP 76 cannot recognize the coordinates of all the pixels of the image data, and can recognize only the coordinates of the reference pixel. If it does so, the process which divides | segments only some symbol sprite data in the process on a program cannot be performed. On the other hand, a configuration in which a plurality of symbol sprite data necessary for partial display is previously set for one symbol is also conceivable. However, symbol sprite data is data including color information, and has a data capacity larger than that of α data in which only an α value is set for each pixel. Therefore, by performing partial display using the α data, partial display can be performed while suppressing the data capacity of the image data and further the data capacity required in the NAND flash memory 102.

  Further, when performing the partial display, the VDP 76 only has to read the partial α data and apply it to the image data to be applied. Therefore, partial display can be performed while suppressing an increase in the processing load of the VDP 76.

  Note that a configuration in which anti-aliasing is not performed when the partial α data is applied may be employed. Further, the application target of the partial α data is not limited to the symbol, and may be a background character or an effect character. Also, the parameter information may be set independently for the overall α data and the partial α data.

<First Alternative Form for Partial Display>
A first alternative form for partial display will be described.

  FIGS. 35A and 35B are explanatory diagrams for explaining the first alternative form. FIGS. 35A and 35C show symbol sprite data, and FIGS. 35B and 35D show overall α data. FIGS. 35E to 35H show the partial α data.

  In this different form, as shown in FIGS. 35A to 35H, the overall α data PD28 and PD29 are individually set for the symbol sprite data PD26 and PD27, and the partial α data PD30. To PD33 are set in common to the symbol sprite data PD26 and PD27. Incidentally, the initial size stored in the NAND flash memory 102 is the same for all the data PD26 to PD33. The data structure is the same for the symbol sprite data other than the symbol sprite data PD26 and PD27 illustrated in FIGS. 35 (a) and 35 (c).

  In the case of this configuration, when partial display is not performed, anti-aliasing can be performed by synthesizing the corresponding α data PD28 and PD29 corresponding to the symbol sprite data PD26 and PD27. In the case of partial display, first, the corresponding overall α data PD28 and PD29 are synthesized, and then the partial α data PD30 to PD33 corresponding to the parts to be partially displayed are synthesized, thereby providing anti-aliasing. While performing, partial display can be performed using the common partial α data PD30 to PD33.

  According to the above configuration, compared to the configuration in which the partial α data is individually set for the symbol sprite data PD26 and PD27, the types of the partial α data PD30 to PD33 can be suppressed. It is possible to suppress the storage capacity necessary for storing the data PD30 to PD33.

<Second alternative form for partial display>
A second alternative form for performing partial display will be described.

  FIG. 36 (a) is an explanatory diagram for explaining a second alternative form, and FIG. 36 (b) is a flowchart showing a setting process of symbol sprite data in the second alternative form.

  In this alternative embodiment, not using α data but using α palette data, anti-aliasing is performed and a part of the symbol is displayed. The α palette data PD34 is obtained by adding α value information to each color information of 256 colors of palette data as shown in FIG. 36 (a-1).

  In the design sprite data PD35, as shown in FIG. 36 (a-2), an image area PA16 and a frame area PA17 are set, but color information not set in the image area PA16 is set in the frame area PA17. Has been. On the other hand, in the overall α palette data, complete transmission information is set as an α value for the color information set in the frame area PA17. In the image area PA16, “1” that is non-transparent information is set as the α value in the color information of the portion excluding the outer edge portion, and partial transmission information is set as the α value in the color information of the outer edge portion. 0 <α value <1 is set. By synthesizing the overall α palette data with the symbol sprite data PD35, anti-aliasing can be performed as shown in FIG. 36 (a-3).

  In addition, as shown in FIG. 36A-2, a plurality of partial areas PA18 to PA21 in which the same color information is not used are set in the symbol sprite data PD35. On the other hand, complete transmission information is set as an α value for color information set in some partial areas PA18 to PA21 and frame area PA17, and color information set in other areas. For this, partial alpha pallet data in which opaque information is set as an alpha value is prepared. A plurality of types of partial α palette data are prepared so that partial areas PA18 to PA21 to which the α value of complete transmission information is applied are different from each other. By synthesizing the partial α palette data with the symbol sprite data PD35, as shown in FIG. 36 (a-4), a symbol can be partially displayed.

  Hereinafter, the symbol sprite data setting process in the VDP 76 executed when α palette data is used will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, in step S2001, the current drawing target symbol sprite data shown in the drawing list is grasped. In a succeeding step S2002, it is determined whether or not the overall α palette data is applied to the symbol sprite data grasped in the step S2001.

  When the overall α palette data is applied, in step S2003, the overall α palette data is read from the designated address and synthesized with the symbol sprite data read from the designated address. As a result, the α value set by adding to each color information in the overall α palette data is applied to the symbol sprite data.

  On the other hand, when the partial α palette data is applied, in step S2004, the partial α palette data is read from the designated address and synthesized with the symbol sprite data read from the designated address. As a result, the α value set by adding to each color information in the partial α palette data is applied to the symbol sprite data.

  After executing step S2003 or step S2004, the process proceeds to step S2005. In step S2005, various parameters (coordinates, size, rotation angle, etc.) to be referred to when the composite sprite data created in step S2003 or step S2004 is written in the frame regions 82a and 82b are grasped. Thereafter, the setting process ends.

  By executing the above process, the overall α palette data or the partial α palette data is combined with the symbol sprite data. Even in this configuration, although the data configuration of the symbol sprite data is limited as compared with the case where α data is used, the antialiasing and partial display of the symbol sprite can be performed. Also, partial display settings can be made in accordance with the color information settings.

<Another form for displaying character transitions using alpha data>
Another mode for performing character transition display using α data will be described.

  FIG. 37A is a flowchart showing a character transition process executed by the VDP 76, and FIGS. 37B to 37F are explanatory diagrams for explaining how character transition display is performed. The character transition process is executed in the content grasping process executed in step S504 of the drawing process (FIG. 13). The character transition process is started when the character transition designation is set in the drawing list.

  As shown in FIG. 37A, in the character transition process, first, in step S2101, the process of superimposing the character sprite data PD36 is executed. In the character sprite data PD36, as shown in FIG. 37 (b), a plurality of character areas PA22 to PA26 are arranged side by side in a predetermined direction, specifically in the horizontal direction, and the outer shape is rectangular. The data is defined such that the periphery of the plurality of character areas PA22 to PA26 is surrounded by the frame area PA27. In step S2101, two identical character sprite data PD36 are read out, and the data are set so that all of them overlap each other.

  In subsequent step S2102, palette data is set in character sprite data PA36 on the back side. As a result, the same color information is set for each of the character areas PA22 to PA26 in the character sprite data PA36 on the back side. In subsequent step S2103, the α data for the whole is synthesized with the character sprite data PD36 on the back side. Thereby, anti-aliasing is performed on each character area PA22 to PA26 of the character sprite on the back side.

  In the subsequent step S2104, palette data is set in the character sprite data PA36 on the front side. The palette data is different from the palette data set in step S2102 in the color information set for each numerical value information of the bitmap data. Thereby, color information different from the character areas PA22 to PA26 of the character sprite data PD36 on the back side is set for the character areas PA22 to PA26 in the character sprite data PD36 on the near side.

  In a succeeding step S2105, it is determined whether or not the overall α data is combined with the character sprite data PD36 on the near side. In the case of synthesizing the overall α data, in step S2106, after synthesizing the overall α data with the near-side character sprite data PD36, the character transition process ends. The overall α data is the same as the overall α data used in step S2103. Thereby, anti-aliasing is performed on the character areas PA22 to PA26 of the character sprite data PD36 on the near side.

  When the process of step S2106 is executed, the character areas PA22 to PA26 set in the character sprite data PD36 on the back side are not displayed on the display screen G, and the character sprite data on the near side is not displayed. The character areas PA22 to PA26 set in the PD 36 are displayed. In this case, the character is displayed with the color information set in the character areas PA22 to PA26 in the character sprite data PD36 on the near side.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S2105 that the overall α data is not to be combined, the character transition processing is performed after combining the partial α data with the character sprite data PD36 on the near side in step S2107. finish. As shown in FIGS. 37 (c) and 37 (d), the partial α data PD37 and PD38 include complete transmission information as an α value for each pixel in a region corresponding to a part of the character regions PA22 to PA26 and the frame region PA27. Is set. Further, in each of the other character areas PA22 to PA26, the non-transparent information is set as an α value for each pixel included in the portion excluding the outer edge portion, and the partial transparency is set as an α value for each pixel included in the outer edge portion. Information 0 <α value <1 is set. The partial α data PD37 and PD38 are set in plural types so that the character areas PA22 to PA26 are erased one character at a time in a predetermined direction, specifically from the left.

  When the processing in step S2107 is executed, the character area of the back character sprite is displayed on the display screen G for the character area that is not displayed in the front character sprite. In this case, as shown in FIGS. 37 (e) and (f), some characters continued from the left side are displayed with the color information set in each character area in the character sprite on the back side. The remaining characters are displayed in the color information set in each character information in the character sprite on the near side. Alternatively, all characters are displayed in the color information set in each character information in the character sprite on the back side.

  As described above, karaoke-like character transition display can be performed using the α data. Incidentally, the above character transition display is executed when a karaoke-like effect is performed, and an effect is provided in which the corresponding lyrics portion changes color according to the melody output from the speaker unit 45.

  The character sprite data PD36 may not be set in an overlapping manner, but a single character sprite data PD36 may be set and the display range thereof may be narrowed sequentially. In this case, each character area is displayed so as to be sequentially erased, instead of being displayed so that different colors are sequentially assigned to the respective character areas.

  Further, when each character area is displayed so that different colors are sequentially added, first, by applying α data in which the character sprite data PD36 on the front side is not displayed, the character sprite data PD36 on the back side is changed. A configuration may be adopted in which the α data to be applied is changed so that each character area of the character sprite data PD36 on the near side is sequentially displayed as a display target. In this case, when the character area of the character sprite data PD36 on the front side is to be displayed, the character area to be displayed in the character sprite data PD36 on the front side corresponds to the character corresponding to the character sprite data PD36 on the back side. The area may be overwritten, or the color information of both character areas may be blended.

  Further, the anti-aliasing may not be performed on the near-side character sprite data, and the contour portion of each character area may not be affected by the back-side image.

<Configuration for performing wipe switching effect>
Next, a configuration for performing the wipe switching effect will be described.

  The wipe switching effect means that at the timing when the background image and a large number of characters are changed, the image at the previous display timing is gradually deleted, and instead, the image at the subsequent display timing is gradually used by using the deleted area. It is an effect that is displayed on the screen.

  A link display function is used for the wipe switching effect. The link display function is a function that integrates the subordinate side image data (relative sprite) with one type of reference side image data (absolute sprite) and allows the VDP 76 to handle it as one piece of image data. is there. When a plurality of image data are integrated by the link display function, the dependent image data is visually displayed only within the image range of the reference image data. Further, when the image data is integrated by the link display function, the process performed on the reference side image data is also applied to the dependent side image data.

  Further, in the wipe switching effect, the alpha data for the wipe switching effect is used to gradually display the image at the subsequent display timing while gradually deleting the image at the previous display timing. The alpha data for the wipe switching effect is synthesized with the reference side image data at the previous display timing. As already described, the subordinate side image data is a single piece of image data integrated with the reference side image data. Since it is handled, α data is also applied to the subordinate image data.

  Here, with reference to FIG. 38, each image data constituting the image at the previous display timing, each image data constituting the image at the subsequent display timing, and α data for the wipe switching effect will be described.

  FIG. 38A shows the image data PD39 to PD42 constituting the image at the previous display timing. Among these, the image data PD39 is image data for displaying the rearmost image at the previous display timing, and is used as the reference side image data in the link display function (hereinafter, the image data PD39 is referred to as the reference side image data). PD39). The plurality of image data PD40 to PD42 are image data for displaying a decorative image displayed on the backmost image, and are used as subordinate image data in the link display function (hereinafter, referred to as “delay side image data”). The image data PD40 to PD42 are referred to as subordinate image data PD40 to PD42).

  By applying the link display function to these image data PD39 to PD42, the subordinate side image data PD40 to PD42 are visually displayed only within the image range of the reference side image data PD39 as already described. It becomes. Even if the entire dependent-side image data is included in the drawing range of the frame regions 82a and 82b, a portion that protrudes from the reference-side image data PD39 is not a drawing target.

  FIG. 38B shows the image data PD43 to PD45 constituting the image at the post display timing. The image data PD43 is image data for displaying the backmost image at the post-display timing, and the plurality of image data PD44 and PD45 are image data for displaying a decorative image displayed on the backmost image. It is. The link display function is not applied to the image data PD43 to PD45 constituting the image at the subsequent display timing.

  FIGS. 38C and 38D show the alpha data PD46 and PD47 for wipe switching effects. Since the α data PD46 and PD47 are synthesized with the reference side image data PD39, they have the same size and outer shape as the reference side image data PD39 at the time of initial setting. Also, each α data PD46, PD47 has completely transparent areas PA28, PA30 in which the α value of each pixel is set to “0” which is completely transparent information, and “1” where the α value of each pixel is opaque information. Non-transparent areas PA29 and PA31. In each of the α data PD46 and PD47, areas inside the boundary line are impermeable areas PA29 and PA31, and areas outside are the completely transmissive areas PA28 and PA30. Each of the α data PD46 and PD47 is switched and used every time the image for one frame is updated when executing the wipe switching effect, but the α data PD46 used at the previous timing is later. The sizes of the completely transmissive areas PA28 and PA30 are set larger than the α data PD47 used at the timing.

  A specific processing configuration for executing the wipe switching effect using each image data will be described.

  FIG. 39 is a flowchart showing a calculation process for a wipe switching effect executed by the display CPU 72. The calculation process for the wipe switching effect is executed in the background calculation process in step S615 in the task process (FIG. 15). The calculation process for the wipe switching effect is activated when information on the wipe switching effect is set in the currently set data table.

  First, in step S2201, based on the currently set data table, the image data PD43 to PD45 corresponding to the image at the subsequent display timing are grasped, and the image data PD43 to PD45 are grasped as the priority side for drawing. To do. In subsequent step S2202, the parameters of the image data PD43 to PD45 grasped as the post-display timing are calculated and derived, and information on the derived parameters is secured in the work RAM 73 in correspondence with the image data PD43 to PD45. The information for control is updated by writing to.

  Thereafter, in steps S2203 to S2209, processing for instructing drawing of an image at the previous display timing is executed. First, in step S2203, the reference-side image data PD39 is grasped from the images at the previous display timing based on the currently set data table. In subsequent step S2204, the parameter of the reference side image data PD39 is calculated and derived, and the information of the derived parameter is written in an area secured in correspondence with the reference image data PD39 in the work RAM 73 to obtain control information. Update.

  In the subsequent step S2205, the subordinate-side image data PD40 to PD42 are grasped from the images of the previous display timing based on the currently set data table. In subsequent step S2206, the parameters of the subordinate-side image data PD40 to PD42 are calculated and derived, and information on the derived parameters is written in the area secured in the work RAM 73 in correspondence with the subordinate-side image data PD40 to PD42. To update the control information.

  Thereafter, in step S2207, link designation information is stored. The link designation information is information for designating execution of image data drawing using the link display function. In the subsequent step S2208, the alpha data PD46 and PD47 for wipe switching effect corresponding to the current drawing instruction are grasped based on the currently set data table. The wipe switching effect α data PD46 and PD47 are set in association with the reference side image data PD39, and the application target is the reference side image data PD39.

  Thereafter, after the wipe designation information is stored in step S2209, this calculation process is terminated. The wipe designation information is information for instructing to combine the alpha data PD46 and PD47 for wipe switching effect with the reference side image data PD39.

  When the calculation process for the wipe switching effect is executed as described above, in the subsequent drawing list output process (step S408), a drawing list for drawing an image corresponding to the wipe switching effect is created. The drawing list will be described below. FIG. 40 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a drawing list created when a wipe switching effect is executed.

  As shown in FIG. 40, a plurality of image data is set in association with each drawing order. In this case, since each image data constituting the image at the post-display timing is grasped as the priority side in step S2201 of the arithmetic processing, each image data constituting the image at the post-display timing is also in the drawing list. The drawing order is set earlier than the image data constituting the image at the previous display timing.

  Each image data constituting the image at the previous display timing is designated as a link. When the link is designated, the image data related to the link designation is processed within the range of one processing time of the drawing process (FIG. 13) in the VDP 76, but the present invention is not limited to this. It is good also as a structure divided and processed by times. Although not shown in the figure, the parameter P (4) of the background data corresponding to the reference-side image data among the image data constituting the image at the previous display timing includes α data for wipe switching effects. Information is set.

  Incidentally, the symbol sprite data is set in the drawing order after each image data constituting the image at the previous display timing. Therefore, an image is displayed in which the symbol variation display is executed in front of the background image on which the wipe switching effect is performed.

  Next, the setting process for the wipe switching effect executed in the VDP 76 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. The setting process for the wipe switching effect is executed as a part of the content grasping process executed in step S504 of the drawing process (FIG. 13). Further, at the timing when the setting process for the wipe switching effect is executed, each image data constituting the image at the display timing specified in the current drawing list is drawn in the frame regions 82a and 82b to be drawn. It has been done.

  In step S2301, it is determined whether link designation is set in the drawing list. If the link designation is not set, this setting process is terminated as it is. If the link designation is set, in step S2302, the reference side image data PD39 designated as the current drawing target and the reference side image data PD39 are transferred in the expansion buffer 81 of the VRAM 75. Know the address. In a succeeding step S2303, the parameters of the reference side image data PD39 are grasped.

  In the subsequent step S2304, the subordinate side image data PD40 to PD42 designated as the current drawing target and the address where the subordinate side image data PD40 to PD42 are transferred in the development buffer 81 of the VRAM 75 are grasped. In subsequent step S2305, each parameter of the subordinate side image data PD40 to PD42 is grasped.

  In subsequent step S2306, link setting is performed. As a result, the subordinate image data PD40 to PD42 grasped in step S2304 are linked to the reference image data PD39 grasped in step S2302. Incidentally, at the time of this linking, the subordinate side image data PD40 to PD42 to which the parameter grasped in step S2305 is applied are linked to the reference side image data PD39 to which the parameter grasped in step S2303 is applied. .

  In a succeeding step S2307, it is determined whether or not the wipe designation is set. If the wipe designation is not set, this setting process is terminated as it is. If the wipe designation is set, in step S2308, the alpha data PD46, PD47 for wipe switching effect designated this time and the alpha data PD46, PD47 are transferred in the expansion buffer 81 of the VRAM 75. Know the address you have. Then, the α data read based on the grasped address is combined with the reference side image data PD39 to which each of the subordinate side image data PD40 to PD42 is linked. Thereafter, the setting process ends.

  Next, the state of the wipe switching effect using the link display function will be described with reference to FIG.

  At the timing before the wipe switching effect is started, the image PC12 at the previous display timing is displayed as shown in FIG. In addition, in front of the image PC 12 at the previous display timing, the symbol variation display is performed in each symbol row Z1 to Z3.

  Thereafter, when the wipe switching effect is started, after the image data PD43 to PD45 constituting the image PC13 at the post display timing are drawn in the drawing target frame regions 82a and 82b, the reference side image data is drawn. The image data in the state where the subordinate-side image data PD40 to PD42 are linked to the PD39 and the alpha data PD46 for wipe switching effect shown in FIG. 38C is combined is drawn.

  In this case, the image data PD39 to PD42 at the preceding display timing are drawn so as to overlap with the image data PD43 to PD45 at the subsequent display timing, but the fusion calculation as described above is executed at the time of the drawing. Is done. Therefore, the numerical information of the image data at the subsequent display timing remains as it is for each dot corresponding to the pixel with which the completely transparent area PA28 is synthesized. On the other hand, since the numerical value information of the pixel in which the opaque region PA29 is synthesized at the previous display timing is overwritten with respect to the drawing target dot, the numerical information of the image data at the subsequent display timing is deleted and the previous display is performed. Timing image data is written. As a result, as shown in FIG. 42B, a wipe image in which the outside of the boundary line is the image PC13 at the post-display timing and the inside of the boundary line is the image PC12 at the front display timing is displayed. In addition, in front of the wipe image, the symbol variation display is performed in each symbol row Z1 to Z3.

  Thereafter, the drawing process is executed by using the wipe change effect α data PD47 shown in FIG. 38D instead of the wipe change effect α data PD46 shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 42 (c), the area in which the image PC12 at the subsequent display timing is displayed is widened instead of the area in which the image PC12 at the previous display timing is displayed.

  As described above, the background image switching mode is gradually changed over a plurality of frames while performing the wipe switching effect, whereby the background image switching mode can be made novel and the background image switching mode can be changed. Diversification is also possible.

  Further, since the image data PD39 to PD42 constituting the image at the front side display timing are linked, and the α data PD46 and PD47 for wipe switching effect are combined with the linked image data, The processing load on the display CPU 72 and the VDP 76 can be reduced as compared with the configuration in which the α data for wipe switching effects is individually synthesized for the image data PD39 to PD42.

  Further, after the image data PD43 to PD45 at the rear display timing are simply drawn on the drawing target frame regions 82a and 82b, the image data PD39 to PD42 at the front display timing are drawn to the frame regions 82a and 82b. It is a configuration. That is, the image data PD43 to PD45 at the rear display timing may be drawn as usual according to the drawing list. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the complexity of the processing configuration.

  Note that the α data may be applied individually to the subordinate image data PD40 to PD42 for the purpose of anti-aliasing or partial display. In addition, the link designation may be made for the image data PD43 to PD45 at the rear display timing.

  Further, the wipe switching direction is not limited to the configuration in which the image at the previous display timing is narrowed from the outside to the inside over a plurality of frames, and may be configured to be narrowed from the inside to the outside. It is good also as a structure which becomes narrow from one predetermined side of this to the one side opposite to it.

<Configuration for smoothly moving and displaying sprites>
Next, a configuration for smoothly moving and displaying the sprite will be described.

  When displaying an animation in which the sprite is moving in a predetermined movement direction, the sprite is drawn at a position shifted by a predetermined dot in the movement direction for each frame or for each of a plurality of frames. A sprite for smooth movement is set as the sprite.

  The sprite for smooth movement will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 43A is an explanatory diagram for explaining the smooth movement sprite CH5, and FIGS. 43B and 43C show the sprite data PD48 and PD49 for displaying the smooth movement sprite CH5. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating.

  As shown in FIG. 43 (a), the sprite CH5 for smooth movement is an individual image representing a cloud displayed so as to move in a predetermined direction over time. Further, the display size is smaller than that of the other individual image PC 14 displayed simultaneously as an image for one frame. In addition, when the sprite CH5 for smooth movement and other individual images PC14 are displayed, the symbols are variably displayed on the near side, but the individual image corresponding to the sprite CH5 for smooth movement is The display size is smaller than the design. In addition, the smooth movement sprite CH5 is set such that the number of image updates required to move one dot is greater than the number of symbols. That is, the sprite CH5 for smooth movement is displayed in a state where the movement speed is slower than the symbol.

  The smooth movement sprite CH5 is not limited to an individual image representing a cloud, but is an individual image representing another object such as an airplane as long as it is displayed so as to move in a predetermined direction. There may be.

  A plurality of sprite data is set as image data for displaying the sprite CH5 for smooth movement. Specifically, two pieces of sprite data PD48 and PD49 are set. Both the sprite data PD48 and PD49 are used to represent the smooth moving sprite CH5. The second sprite data PD49 is based on the frame regions 82a and 82b in the moving direction with respect to the first sprite data PD48. This corresponds to the state of moving half a dot.

  Both the sprite data PD48 and PD49 are data shifted by half a dot due to the difference in the α value at the boundary portion. Comparing the two sprite data PD48 and PD49 by taking each pixel constituting the same boundary as an example, as shown in FIGS. 43B and 43C, the α values of the pixels ahead in the moving direction are different. ing.

  As described above, when the α value is “0”, it corresponds to the complete transmission information, and the pixels with the α value “0” transmit all of the overlapping images on the back side of the display screen G. On the other hand, when the α value is “1”, it corresponds to the non-transparent information, and at the pixel having the α value “1”, the overlapping images are filled in the back side of the display screen G. In addition, when 0 <α value <1, the overlapping image is transmitted on the back side of the display screen G in a state where it is semi-transparent by the α value.

  Incidentally, when superimposing the sprite CH5 for smooth movement on the back side image, the calculation for fusion is executed. The fusion calculation is as described above.

  As shown in FIG. 43B, the first sprite data PD48 has an α value at the boundary portion, whereas the second sprite data PD49 has a boundary as shown in FIG. 43C. The α value of the portion is set to a value corresponding to a state in which the portion is shifted by a half dot with respect to the frame regions 82a and 82b in the moving direction. As a result, when the second sprite data PD49 is set at the same position as the coordinates where the first sprite data PD48 is set, as shown by the one-dot chain line in FIGS. The smooth moving sprite CH5 is visually recognized as if it moved half a dot with respect to the frame regions 82a and 82b or a corresponding amount with respect to the display screen G as a reference.

  Incidentally, the second sprite data PD49 is created by magnifying the first sprite data PD48 twice, shifting it by one dot with reference to the frame regions 82a and 82b, and then halving it. .

  Next, a processing configuration for performing smooth movement display using each of the sprite data PD48 and PD49 will be described. FIG. 44 is a flowchart showing a smooth movement calculation process executed by the display CPU 72. The smooth movement calculation process is executed in the background calculation process of step S615 in the task process (FIG. 15). The smooth movement calculation process is started when information on smooth movement is set in the currently set data table.

  First, in step S2401, it is determined whether it is the start timing of the smooth movement display. This determination is made based on the currently set data table. If it is the start timing, the progress target flag area set in the work RAM 73 is cleared in step S2402. In the subsequent step S2403, the numerical information of the progress counter set in the work RAM 73 is initialized.

  In the subsequent step S2404, the first sprite data PD48 is grasped as the current drawing target. In the subsequent step S2405, by referring to the numerical information of the progress counter, the coordinate information of the first sprite data PD48 is calculated and derived, and the derived coordinate information is obtained in the work RAM 73 by the first sprite data PD48. The information for control is updated by writing in the area secured corresponding to the above. Incidentally, the coordinate information is set so as to correspond one-to-one with the numerical information of the progress counter.

  Thereafter, in step S2406, a parameter other than the coordinate information is calculated and derived for the first sprite data PD48, and the information for the derived parameter is written in the secured area to update the control information. . Further, in step S2407, after storing the smooth movement designation information, this calculation process is terminated. When the above process is executed, the first sprite data PD48 is set as a drawing target in the drawing list, and initial value coordinates are set as the coordinates. In the drawing list, smooth movement designation information is set.

  On the other hand, if it is not the start timing, it is determined in step S2408 whether the progress target flag is set. If the progress target flag is not set, this means that the first sprite data PD48 has been set in the previous frame, and the process advances to step S2409.

  In step S2409, a progress target flag is set. In the subsequent step S2410, the second sprite data PD49 is grasped as the current drawing target. In the subsequent step S2411, the coordinate information of the second sprite data PD49 is grasped, and the grasped coordinate information is written in an area secured in the work RAM 73 corresponding to the second sprite data PD49. Update information for In this case, since the progress counter update process has not been executed, information on the same coordinates as the information on the coordinates on which the first sprite data PD48 was drawn in the previous frame is obtained.

  Thereafter, in step S2412, parameters other than coordinate information are calculated and derived for the second sprite data PD49, and the information for the derived parameters is written in the secured area to update the control information. . Further, in step S2407, after storing the smooth movement designation information, this calculation process is terminated. When the above processing is executed, the second sprite data PD49 is set as a drawing target in the drawing list, and the same coordinates as the previous frame are set as the coordinates. In the drawing list, smooth movement designation information is set.

  If it is determined in step S2408 that the progress target flag is set, this means that the second sprite data PD49 has been set in the previous frame, and thus the process proceeds to step S2413.

  In step S2413, the progress target flag is cleared. In a succeeding step S2414, the progress counter is updated so that 1 is added. In the subsequent step S2415, the first sprite data PD48 is grasped as the current drawing target. In subsequent step S2416, by referring to the numerical information of the progress counter updated in step S2414, the coordinate information of the second sprite data PD49 is calculated and derived, and the derived coordinate information is secured as described above. Control information is updated by writing to the area. In this case, information of coordinates that have advanced by one dot with respect to the coordinates set in the previous frame with respect to the frame regions 82a and 82b in the movement direction is obtained.

  Thereafter, in step S2417, parameters other than the coordinate information are calculated and derived for the first sprite data PD48, and the information for the derived parameter is written in the secured area to update the control information. . Further, in step S2407, after storing the smooth movement designation information, this calculation process is terminated. When the above processing is executed, in the drawing list, the first sprite data PD48 is set as a drawing target, and the coordinates are shifted by one dot from the coordinates set in the previous frame as the coordinates in the moving direction. Is set. In the drawing list, smooth movement designation information is set.

  Next, the setting process for smooth movement executed by the VDP 76 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. The smooth movement setting process is executed in the content grasping process in step S504 in the drawing process (FIG. 13). Also, the smooth movement setting process is started when smooth movement designation is set in the drawing list.

  First, in step S2501, it is determined whether or not the current drawing target is the first sprite data PD48. If it is the first sprite data PD48, the process proceeds to step S2502, where the first sprite data PD48 is grasped as a drawing target, and the first sprite data PD48 is transferred in the expansion buffer 81 of the VRAM 75. Know the address. On the other hand, if it is not the first sprite data PD48, the process proceeds to step S2503, where the second sprite data PD49 is grasped as a drawing target, and the second sprite data PD49 is displayed in the change area 81b in the expansion buffer 81 of the VRAM 75. Know the address that has been forwarded.

  After executing the processing of step S2502 or step S2503, in step S2504, the coordinates of the current drawing target are grasped. In step S2505, other parameters are grasped, and then this setting processing is terminated.

  By executing the setting process for smooth movement, in the subsequent writing process (step S505), the current sprite data among the sprite data PD48 and PD49 for the drawing target frame areas 82a and 82b. Data is drawn at the specified coordinates. In this case, as shown in FIG. 45B, in the first frame, the first sprite data PD48 is set so that the coordinate in the movement direction becomes “n”, and the coordinate in the movement direction is set in the second frame. The second sprite data PD49 is set so as to be the same at “n”. Also, in the third frame, the first sprite data PD48 is set so that the coordinate in the moving direction is “n + 1”, and in the fourth frame, the second sprite data PD is set so that the coordinate in the moving direction is “n + 1”. The sprite data PD49 is set. Then, after the first sprite data PD48 and the second sprite data PD49 are alternately set for the same coordinates, the state in which the moving direction is updated by one dot is repeated. As a result, the sprite CH5 for smooth movement is visually recognized as if it is progressing by half a dot with respect to the frame regions 82a and 82b for each frame or as much as the corresponding amount with reference to the display screen G. Smooth movement display is possible.

  In particular, the sprite CH5 for smooth movement has a smaller display size than the other individual images PC14 displayed at the same time, so that one dot or the display screen G is displayed for each frame on the basis of the frame regions 82a and 82b. In the configuration in which the movement corresponding to one dot is performed as a reference, there is a concern that the movement amount with respect to its own area becomes a large ratio, and the movement becomes conspicuous as rattling. On the other hand, according to the present configuration, such inconvenience is not caused, and the sprite CH5 can be moved and displayed smoothly.

  The sprite CH5 for smooth movement is an individual image representing a cloud. When the frame rate is lowered as if the cloud is moving slowly, the frame regions 82a and 82b are used as a reference at the timing of movement. In the configuration of moving by one dot or the amount corresponding to the one dot on the basis of the display screen G, there is a concern that it may become noticeable as rattling. On the other hand, according to this configuration, even if the movement is performed by one dot or a number corresponding to each frame, the movement by less than one dot is performed with reference to the frame regions 82a and 82b. The sprite CH5 can be moved and displayed smoothly.

  Incidentally, as a configuration for reducing the frame rate, specifically, the same coordinate information is applied to the first sprite data PD48 for the first plurality of frames, and the same coordinate information is the second information. When the second plurality of frames are applied to the sprite data PD49, a configuration in which the coordinate information is advanced by one dot is conceivable. In this case, the first plurality of frames and the second plurality of frames may be the same number or different numbers. However, if it is desired to display the smooth moving sprite CH5 as if it is traveling at a constant speed, it is preferable that the first plurality of frames and the second plurality of frames be the same number.

  Moreover, the smooth movement display as described above can be realized only by alternately drawing the sprite data PD48 and PD49 shifted by half a dot. That is, the above excellent effects can be achieved while suppressing the complexity of the processing configuration. Further, the sprite data PD48 and PD49 can be created by a simple method of making the outer edge portions have different α values.

  Also, since the difference between the two sprite data PD48 and PD49 is for half a dot, the apparent amount of movement is the same between when switching from one to the other and when switching from the other to one. Can do.

  The configuration is not limited to the configuration in which the sprite data PD48 and PD49 shifted by half a dot are provided, and other sprite data shifted by less than one dot such as a quarter dot or a quarter dot may be provided. . Further, in addition to the reference sprite data, a plurality of sprite data for less than 1 dot, such as 1/4 dot, half dot, and 3/4 dot, may be provided so that the amount of movement is different. .

  In the configuration in which the number of dots in the frame regions 82a and 82b and the number of dots in the display screen G correspond one-to-one, the second sprite data PD49 is based on the display screen G with respect to the first sprite data PD48. As shown in FIG.

  Further, in a configuration in which the number of dots in the frame regions 82a and 82b is smaller than the number of dots on the display screen G, the second sprite data PD49 is shifted by half a dot with respect to the first sprite data PD48 on the basis of the display screen G. It is good also as a structure set as data. In this case, both the sprite data PD48 and PD49 are set as data shifted by less than a half dot with respect to the frame regions 82a and 82b. Further, both the sprite data PD48 and PD49 may be set as data shifted by less than one dot instead of half a dot with respect to the display screen G.

  Further, in the configuration in which the number of dots in the frame regions 82a and 82b is larger than the number of dots on the display screen G, the second sprite data PD49 is shifted by half a dot with respect to the first sprite data PD48 on the basis of the display screen G. It is good also as a structure set as data. In this case, both the sprite data PD48 and PD49 are set as data shifted by a half dot or more with reference to the frame regions 82a and 82b. Further, both the sprite data PD48 and PD49 may be set as data shifted by less than one dot instead of half a dot with respect to the display screen G.

  Further, both the sprite data PD48 and PD49 are not stored in the memory module 74 in advance, but only one is stored in advance, and the other is obtained from one sprite data after the pachinko machine 10 is turned on. It is good also as a structure created and preserve | saved separately. In this case, although it is necessary to create the one sprite data and save it separately, the processing load increases. However, the memory capacity required for storing the sprite data in the memory module 74 can be reduced.

  In addition, the above-described configuration for smooth movement may be applied to a sprite that is displayed so that a part moves instead of a sprite that is displayed so that the whole moves.

  In addition, the individual image PC14 that is displayed simultaneously with the sprite CH5 for smooth movement and that is larger in size than the sprite CH5 is displayed as if it has moved over a predetermined period, that is, the viewpoint changes slowly. It is good also as a structure to be. In this case, the sprite CH5 for smooth movement may be configured such that the number of image updates required to move one dot is set more than that for the individual image PC14. That is, the sprite CH5 for smooth movement may be configured to move and display in a state where the movement speed is slower than that of the individual image PC14. In this configuration, since a small individual image is moved and displayed at a slower speed than a large individual image, there is a concern that shakiness due to movement of one dot is noticeable, but as described above, it is less than one dot. By preparing the shifted sprite data PD48 and PD49 and using them alternately, it is possible to suppress the above-described rattling.

<Configuration for zooming in using Scaler 97>
Next, a configuration for performing a zoom-in effect using the scaler 97 will be described.

  As described above, the VDP 76 outputs an image signal to the symbol display device 31 on the basis of the drawing data created in the output frame regions 82a and 82b, and displays the above-mentioned image on the display screen G of the symbol display device 31. A display circuit 94 for displaying an image corresponding to the drawing data is provided (see FIG. 4). Incidentally, the image signal is a signal including gradation data for determining a display color in each dot (each pixel) of the liquid crystal display unit 31a, and is output to the symbol display device 31 based on a predetermined clock signal. .

  The display circuit 94 converts the number of pixels of the drawing data read from the frame regions 82a and 82b to be output into the number of pixels specified by the display CPU 72, and also sets each dot constituting the liquid crystal display unit 31a of the symbol display device 31. A scaler 97 for generating gradation data for each pixel is provided.

  The scaler 97 is provided as a dedicated circuit for resolution adjustment in the display circuit 94. As shown in FIG. 4, the scaler 97 includes a resolution adjustment buffer 97a. When gradation data is generated by the scaler 97, the drawing data created in the output frame regions 82a and 82b is transferred to the resolution adjustment buffer 97a, and gradation data for the designated number of pixels. The drawing data is converted so that In this conversion, linear interpolation processing is executed. Specifically, the number of pixels can be converted using bilinear filtering.

  Based on the gradation data created in the resolution adjustment buffer 97 a, an image signal is generated by the image signal output unit 98 provided in the display circuit 94 and output to the symbol display device 31. An image for one frame is displayed. Incidentally, the image signal output unit 98 is provided with a line buffer 98a, and fine control is performed using the line buffer 98a when generating and outputting the image signal.

  Here, when drawing data is created in the frame areas 82a and 82b to be drawn in the VDP 76, data is written in all unit areas of the frame areas 82a and 82b, but the resolution of each frame area 82a and 82b is 800. The number of dots is x600. On the other hand, the resolution of the liquid crystal display unit 31a is 1024 × 768 dots. That is, the liquid crystal display unit 31a has a higher resolution than the frame regions 82a and 82b.

  When the resolution adjustment value (adjustment information) in the scaler 97 is set to the initial adjustment value (initial adjustment information), drawing data created at a resolution of 800 × 600 corresponds to the liquid crystal display unit 31a 1024. It is converted into gradation data with a resolution of × 768. The state of this conversion will be described with reference to FIG.

  In FIG. 46A, the range defined by the solid line is the range of the resolution adjustment buffer 97a, and the range defined by the alternate long and short dash line is the range where the transferred drawing data PD50 is written. When resolution adjustment is performed on the drawing data PD50 at a resolution corresponding to the initial adjustment value, the drawing data PD50 is converted into gradation data PD51 having a size indicated within a range defined by a two-dot chain line. In this case, the number of pixels of the gradation data PD51 matches the number of dots of the liquid crystal display unit 31a, and all data constituting the gradation data PD51 is output to the symbol display device 31 as an image signal. That is, at the time of conversion to the resolution corresponding to the initial adjustment value, the gradation data for all the dots of the liquid crystal display unit 31a is created using all the pixels of the drawing data. The number of pixels of gradation data increases.

  Note that the initial adjustment value is set based on the initial setting process (FIG. 10) being executed by the display CPU 72, as already described. The area in the resolution adjustment buffer 97a to which the drawing data PD50 is transferred is always constant.

  In the pachinko machine 10, an image zoom-in effect is performed using the scaler 97. In this zoom-in effect, the resolution adjustment value in the scaler 97 is set as the enlargement adjustment value. A plurality of types of adjustment values for enlargement are set so that corresponding resolutions are different, and each resolution is higher than the resolution of the initial adjustment value. The manner in which the drawing data is converted into gradation data having a resolution corresponding to a predetermined enlargement adjustment value will be described with reference to FIG.

  In the case where the resolution adjustment is performed with the resolution corresponding to the enlargement adjustment value with respect to the drawing data PD52 indicated by the alternate long and short dash line in FIG. 46B, the gradation data having the size indicated within the range partitioned by the alternate long and two short dashes line Converted to PD53. In this case, since the number of pixels of the gradation data PD53 is larger than the number of dots of the liquid crystal display unit 31a, all data constituting the gradation data PD53 cannot be output to the symbol display device 31 as an image signal.

  On the other hand, the display CPU 72 designates a range of the gradation data PD53 to be output to the symbol display device 31 as an image signal. In this designation, the address of a dot serving as a drawing reference point is designated in the resolution adjustment buffer 97a. However, the designation method is arbitrary as long as the designation can be performed satisfactorily.

  In the display circuit 94, when a drawing reference point is designated, data in a range indicated by a broken line in FIG. 46B in the gradation data PD53 is output to the symbol display device 31 as an image signal. In this case, since an image signal is output using a part of pixels of the drawing data, an image display in the symbol display device 31 is performed in a state where a part of the image corresponding to the drawing data is substantially enlarged. Is done.

  Note that the drawing reference point corresponds to any of the four corner dots in the range to which the image signal is to be output, but which dot is the target is arbitrary. Also, the information capacity of the resolution adjustment buffer 97a is set to an information capacity that can store all pixels of the gradation data regardless of the enlargement adjustment value converted from the drawing data to the gradation data. Has been.

  A specific processing configuration for executing an image zoom-in effect using the scaler 97 will be described.

  FIG. 47 is a flowchart showing a zoom-in effect calculation process executed by the display CPU 72. Note that the arithmetic processing for zoom-in effect is executed in a shared manner in the respective arithmetic processing of step S615 to step S617 in the task processing (FIG. 15), but is shown here as a single flowchart for convenience of explanation.

  First, in step S2601, image data for background is grasped based on the currently set data table. In subsequent step S2602, the parameter of the grasped background image data is calculated and derived, and information on the derived parameter is written in an area secured in the work RAM 73 corresponding to the background image data. Update control information.

  In the subsequent step S2603, the image data for presentation is grasped based on the currently set data table. In the subsequent step S2604, the grasped image data parameters for the effect are calculated and derived, and the information on the derived parameters is written in an area secured in the work RAM 73 corresponding to the effect image data. Update control information.

  In subsequent step S2605, it is determined based on the currently set data table whether or not it is the timing to enlarge compared to the initial adjustment value of the scaler 97. If it is not time to enlarge, in step S2606, the image data for symbols (that is, symbol sprite data) is grasped based on the currently set data table. In the subsequent step S2607, the grasped graphic image parameter is calculated and derived in accordance with the fact that the scaler 97 is set to the initial adjustment value, and the derived parameter information is obtained in the work RAM 73. Information for control is updated by writing in an area secured in correspondence with image data for symbols. Thereafter, this calculation process is terminated.

  When the calculation process for zoom-in effect is executed as described above, in the subsequent drawing list output process (step S408), drawing for drawing an image corresponding to the scaler 97 being set to the initial adjustment value A list is created and sent to the VDP 76.

  On the other hand, if it is time to enlarge compared to the initial adjustment value of the scaler 97, in step S2608, information on the current adjustment value for enlargement is grasped. Information on each adjustment value for enlargement is stored in advance in the NAND flash memory 102 and transferred to the work RAM 73 by the timing required by the display CPU 72. In the data table, information on any enlargement adjustment value is set. In step S2608, information on the enlargement adjustment value shown in the currently set data table is grasped.

  In subsequent step S2609, information on the current drawing reference point is grasped. The drawing reference point information is set in a one-to-one correspondence with the enlargement adjustment value information. Information about each drawing reference point is stored in advance in the NAND flash memory 102 and transferred to the work RAM 73 by a timing required by the display CPU 72. In the data table, information on any drawing reference point is set, and in step S2609, information on the drawing reference point shown in the currently set data table is grasped. In subsequent step S2610, zoom-in designation information is stored.

  Thereafter, in step S2611, the image data for symbols is grasped based on the currently set data table. In the subsequent step S2612, the grasped graphic image data parameters are calculated and derived based on the fact that the scaler 97 is set to the current enlargement adjustment value, and information on the derived parameters is obtained from the work RAM 73. Then, the control information is updated by writing in the area secured in correspondence with the image data for the symbol. In this case, the coordinates and size of the image data for the symbol are calculated so that the symbol display position and the symbol size on the display screen G are not changed between the timing before execution of the zoom-in effect and the timing during execution.

  Specifically, when image data of the same size is adjusted by the scaler 97, the size of the resolution adjustment using the enlargement adjustment value is larger than the resolution adjustment using the initial adjustment value. Therefore, the size information of the design image data specified in the drawing list is the initial adjustment value so that the size after the resolution adjustment with the enlargement adjustment value is the same as the size after the resolution adjustment with the initial adjustment value. It is specified smaller than the case of.

  Further, when the resolution of the image data is adjusted by the scaler 97, the resolution adjustment using the enlargement adjustment value is displaced in the direction in which the image is enlarged compared to the resolution adjustment using the initial adjustment value. Therefore, the coordinate information of the design image data specified in the drawing list is the initial adjustment value so that the position after the resolution adjustment with the enlargement adjustment value is the same as the position after the resolution adjustment with the initial adjustment value. It is specified by displacing in the opposite direction of the enlargement direction than the case of.

  After executing the process of step S2612, this calculation process ends. When the arithmetic processing for zoom in effect is executed as described above, in the subsequent drawing list output processing (step S408), an image corresponding to the scaler 97 being set to any one of the enlargement adjustment values is drawn. A drawing list is created and transmitted to the VDP 76. In this case, the drawing list includes enlargement adjustment value information, drawing reference point information, and zoom-in designation information indicating that a zoom-in effect should be executed. For the image data for symbols, parameter information corresponding to the enlargement adjustment value specified at the same time is set.

  Incidentally, as described above, the number of image data on which the adjustment for enlargement is performed on the parameter information is equal to or less than the number of image data on which the adjustment for enlargement is not performed.

  Next, the zoom-in effect setting process executed by the VDP 76 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  The setting process for zoom-in effect is executed as a part of the content grasping process executed in step S504 of the drawing process (FIG. 13). Further, when zoom-in designation information is set in the drawing list, the setting process for zoom-in effect is executed. Here, in the drawing list, the zoom-in designation information is set in association with the pattern image data, so the setting process for zoom-in effect is the drawing order of the pattern image data in the current drawing list. It is activated when

  Note that in the drawing order in the drawing list, the background image data and the effect image data are set as the order ahead of the pattern image data, and therefore the zoom-in effect setting process is executed. At the timing, the drawing of the image data for background and the image data for effect has been completed.

  First, in step S2701, the enlargement adjustment value information specified in the drawing list is set by writing it in a dedicated area of the register 92 (see FIG. 4). Here, the dedicated area is set as an area different from the area where the information of the initial adjustment value is written. Therefore, even if the information on the adjustment value for enlargement is set, the information on the initial adjustment value is not deleted.

  In the subsequent step S2702, the information is set by writing the information of the drawing reference point designated in the drawing list in the dedicated area of the register 92. Here, when the resolution adjustment is performed using the initial adjustment value, it is sufficient to always use a fixed drawing reference point. Therefore, the drawing reference point corresponding to the initial adjustment value is determined in advance in the display circuit 94.

  In the subsequent step S2703, an enlargement flag is set in a predetermined area set in the register 92. By setting the enlargement flag, when the display circuit 94 outputs an image signal, the resolution adjustment is performed with the enlargement adjustment value set in step S2701, and the setting is made in step S2702. A range to which an image signal is to be output is determined based on the drawing reference point. The enlargement flag is deleted based on an instruction from the display CPU 72 when the zoom-in effect is terminated.

  In the subsequent step S 2704, the design image data designated as the current drawing target and the address to which the design image data is transferred in the expansion buffer 81 of the VRAM 75 are grasped. In step S2705, the parameters of the image data for symbols are grasped. Thereafter, the setting process ends.

  By executing the setting process for zoom-in effect as described above, the drawing data created based on the drawing list specified this time is subjected to resolution adjustment with the corresponding adjustment value for enlargement and converted to gradation data. After conversion, data in a predetermined range with reference to the drawing reference point is output as an image signal.

  The output process executed by the display circuit 94 to output the image signal will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. The output process is started when an instruction to output an image signal is issued from the display CPU 72, and is started whenever the image update start timing (for example, 20 msec) is reached.

  First, in step S2801, it is determined whether or not the enlargement flag is set in the register 92. If the enlargement flag is not set, linear interpolation processing corresponding to the initial adjustment value is executed in step S2802. In this case, information of the initial adjustment value is grasped from the dedicated area of the register 92, and linear interpolation processing is executed according to the initial adjustment value. In the linear interpolation process, in order to interpolate the increase in the number of pixels accompanying the increase in resolution, the numerical information (or pixel value) of each pixel after enlargement is linearly calculated from the numerical information set for the four pixels before enlargement. Bilinear interpolation obtained by interpolation is performed. Note that the bilinear interpolation is not executed for all the pixels at once, but sequentially for every predetermined number of pixels.

  In a succeeding step S2803, it is determined whether or not the conversion to the gradation data is completed, and if not completed, the process returns to the step S2802. If completed, in step S2804, the output target dot is grasped based on a predetermined initial reference point.

  Thereafter, in step S2805, after executing the image signal output process, the output process is terminated. In the image signal output process, the image signals for the dots grasped in step S2804 are sequentially output.

  On the other hand, if the enlargement flag is set (step S2801: YES), in step S2806, linear interpolation processing corresponding to the enlargement adjustment value designated this time is executed. In this case, information on the adjustment value for enlargement is grasped from the dedicated area of the register 92, and linear interpolation processing is executed according to the adjustment value for enlargement. The contents of the linear interpolation process are as described above.

  In the following step S2807, it is determined whether or not the conversion to the gradation data is completed. If not completed, the process returns to step S2806. If it has been completed, in step S2808, the drawing reference point designated this time is grasped from the dedicated area of the register 92, and the output target dot is grasped based on the grasped drawing reference point.

  Thereafter, in step S2805, after executing the image signal output process, the output process is terminated. In the image signal output processing, the image signals for the dots grasped in step S2808 are sequentially output.

  Next, the state of the zoom-in effect will be described. FIG. 50 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a zoom-in effect. FIG. 50A is an explanatory diagram for explaining an image at an image update timing immediately before the zoom-in effect is performed, and FIG. 50B is an image update timing next to the image update timing and zoom-in. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the image of the timing when the production was started.

  As shown in FIG. 50 (a), immediately before the zoom-in effect is performed, the character CH6 is displayed near the center of the background image PC15 and the symbols CH7 and CH8 are displayed at the upper left and upper right. ing. The image is in a state where the reach is displayed with symbols CH7 and CH8, and the character CH6 is displayed as an effect of the reach display. When the image is displayed, each image data is drawn in the frame size 82a, 82b to be output with the same relative size and relative position as in FIG.

  At the next image update timing in the above state, a zoom-in effect is started. In this case, each image data is drawn in the relative size and relative position as shown in FIG. 50 (b-1) in the output frame regions 82a and 82b. As shown in FIG. 50 (b-2), resolution adjustment is performed on the drawing data with the adjustment value for enlargement, and an image signal is output based on the area grasped based on the drawing reference point. Correct images are displayed.

  In the image, the background image PC15 and the character CH6 are enlarged so that the character CH6 is zoomed in as compared with the image of FIG. On the other hand, the positions and sizes of the symbols CH7 and CH8 are the same, substantially the same as or similar to the positions and sizes in the case of FIG.

  Incidentally, when compared with the same line of the character CH6, in the state of FIG. 50 (a), the line is displayed with gradation (and color) as shown in FIG. 50 (c-1), whereas FIG. In the state b-2), lines are displayed with gradations (and colors) as shown in FIG. 50C-2.

  Further, by displaying the image shown in FIG. 50 (b-2) and then displaying the image shown in FIG. 50 (a), the VDP 76 only returns to the resolution adjustment by the initial adjustment value. Is displayed as zoomed out. That is, the pachinko machine 10 can perform not only a zoom-in effect using the scaler 97 but also a zoom-out effect using the scaler 97. Furthermore, as already described, since a plurality of combinations of enlargement adjustment values and drawing reference points are set, the zoom-in effect and the zoom-out effect can be performed in stages.

  As described above, a zoom-in effect can be performed using the scaler 97, and a zoom-out effect can be performed by returning the zoomed-in state to the initial state. For example, it is possible to similarly perform a zoom-in effect by drawing each image data in an enlarged state when drawing in the frame regions 82a and 82b. In this case, however, all the image data to be drawn in the VDP 76 are enlarged. The processing needs to be executed, and the processing load on the VDP 76 is increased. In addition, for example, a configuration in which image data for normal size and image data for enlarged size are set in advance for the same image is conceivable. In this case, it is necessary to store the image data. This leads to an increase in storage capacity. On the other hand, by performing a zoom-in effect using the scaler 97, processing for enlarging and displaying an image is performed not by the control unit 91 of the VDP 76 but by the display circuit 94. Therefore, it is possible to perform a zoom-in effect or a zoom-out effect while suppressing the influence on the processing load of the control unit 91 and the influence on the storage capacity necessary for storing the image data.

  In addition, the size of the drawing data created in the frame regions 82a and 82b is the same regardless of whether or not the zoom-in effect is performed. Thereby, the creation of the drawing data in the frame regions 82a and 82b can be performed with the same processing configuration regardless of whether the zoom-in effect is performed or not.

  Further, in the display circuit 94, when the zoom-in effect is not performed, the resolution adjustment is performed with the designated initial adjustment value, and the range to which the image signal is to be output is grasped based on the predetermined initial reference point. When the zoom-in effect is performed, only the adjustment value and the reference point to be referred to are changed. Therefore, the zoom-in effect can be performed while using the hardware configuration of the display circuit 94 when the zoom-in effect is not performed.

  Even if a zoom-in effect is performed, the symbol is not enlarged. Thereby, it is prevented that the visibility of a symbol falls in the zoom-in effect. In particular, the display CPU 72 designates the parameters of the image data for the symbols as parameters that are not enlarged, and the VDP 76 only needs to draw the image data for the symbols in accordance with the parameters. Therefore, while suppressing the influence on the processing load of the VDP 76, The visibility of the symbol can be improved.

  When the zoom-in effect is finished, the adjustment value of the scaler 97 is returned to the initial adjustment value. Thereby, when the zoom-in effect is finished, the display of the image according to the resolution of the display screen G can be resumed.

  The display circuit 94 may be configured to execute a process corresponding to the output process (FIG. 49) only by the operation of the hardware circuit without using a program. Further, the display circuit 94 may not be built in the VDP 76 but may be provided separately from the VDP 76. In this case, the display circuit 94 may be provided on the signal path between the VDP 76 and the symbol display device 31, and a signal path is provided between the VRAM 75 and the symbol display device 31 separately from the signal path. A display circuit 94 may be provided above.

  Alternatively, the initial adjustment value and the enlargement adjustment value may be written in the same area in the register 92. In this case, after the zoom-in effect, a process for returning the information of the area to the initial adjustment value may be executed. The processing may be performed based on designation from the display CPU 72, or may be performed independently by the VDP 76.

  The initial reference point may be set in the register 92 when the initial adjustment value is set in the register 92. In this case, the area in which the initial reference point is set and the area in which the drawing reference point is set may be set separately, and these pieces of information may be set in the same area. In the case where the same area is set, after the zoom-in effect, a process for returning the information of the area to the initial reference point may be executed. The processing may be performed based on designation from the display CPU 72, or may be performed independently by the VDP 76.

  Further, the image data on which the adjustment for enlargement is performed on the parameter information is not limited to the image data for the design, and may be image data for a predetermined effect or image data for the background. . In this case, for example, for the character for presentation that is not the enlargement target, the adjustment for enlargement may be performed so that at least the entire character is displayed, and the adjustment for enlargement is performed so that at least the position does not change. It is good also as a structure.

  In addition to the scaler 97, a circuit for adjusting the size of the drawing data in order to perform a zoom-in effect or a zoom-out effect may be provided.

  Further, when the adjustment value of the scaler 97 is the initial adjustment value, only a part of the drawing data may be output as an image signal. In this case, when the adjustment value of the scaler 97 is set to the adjustment value for reduction, the range that is output as the image signal in the drawing data is widened so that the zoom from the state displayed with the initial adjustment value can be achieved. It is possible to perform out production.

  In addition, when a zoom-in effect is performed, the background image PC15 and the character CH6 to be zoomed in may be gradually enlarged over a plurality of update times of the image. In this case, a plurality of stages of adjustment values for enlargement of the scaler 97 may be prepared, and the adjustment values may be changed in stages so that the enlargement rate gradually increases. In addition, by setting the coordinates of the image data for the image and the parameters of the scale according to each adjustment value for enlargement, when the zoom-in effect is performed so that the image is gradually enlarged, the symbol is displayed at each stage. It can be prevented from being enlarged.

<Direction using moving image data>
Next, an effect using moving image data will be described.

  The moving image data is image data that is compressed between frames so as to have a plurality of difference data with reference to still image data for one frame and is encoded by, for example, the MPEG2 method. When the moving image data is decoded, it is expanded into still image data for a plurality of frames.

  The moving image data set in the pachinko machine 10 will be described with reference to FIG.

  As shown in FIGS. 51A to 51C, as moving image data, moving image data PD54 before branching, moving image data PD55 for branching A, and moving image data PD56 for branching B are used. , Is set. These moving image data PD54 to PD56 are set to perform super reach display that develops after normal reach display or without via normal reach display among reach displays.

  In any of the moving image data PD54 to PD56, file data is set at the first address, and subsequently, compressed data of each frame is set. The compressed data of each frame is accompanied by a frame header.

  The compressed data includes one frame of I picture data corresponding to the reference data, a plurality of frames of P picture data corresponding to the first difference data, and a plurality of frames of B picture data corresponding to the second difference data. And have.

  The I picture data is data that can create still image data for one frame by the data alone at the time of decoding. P picture data is data that can generate still image data for one frame by performing forward prediction with reference to I picture data or P picture data of one frame or a plurality of frames before decoding. . B picture data is decoded by bi-directional prediction with reference to I picture data or P picture data before one frame or plural frames and I picture data or P picture data after one frame or plural frames. This is data that can create still image data for one frame.

  In the compressed data of the moving image data PD54 to PD56, I picture data is set as the data of the first frame. In addition, B picture data is set as data of the second frame,..., M−1 frame. Also, P picture data is set as the data of the mth frame. Further, B picture data is set as data of the (m + 1) th frame,..., The (n−1) th frame. Also, P picture data is set as the nth frame data. Note that the arrangement pattern of the picture data is not limited to the above, and is arbitrary.

  The contents of the images set in the respective moving image data PD54 to PD56 will be described with reference to FIG. 52A shows the contents of a part of the image set in the pre-branch moving image data PD54, and FIG. 52B shows the post-branch A moving image data PD55. FIG. 52C shows the contents of a part of the image set in the post-branch B moving image data PD56.

  As shown in FIG. 52 (a-1), the moving image data PD54 before branching is superimposed on the pre-branching background image PC16 showing a waved state, so that the character to be moved is a boy character. Reference data (I picture data) PD57 corresponding to the image to which CH9 is added is set. Also, as shown in FIGS. 52 (a-2) and (a-3), difference data (P picture) corresponding to an image that does not have the background image PC16 but the moving target character CH9 moves in a predetermined direction. Data, B picture data) PD58 and PD59 are set. Still image data for one frame is generated from the reference data PD57 and the difference data PD58 and PD59 are applied to the reference data PD57, whereby each difference data PD58, One frame of still image data to which the movement target character CH9 set in the PD 59 is added is created.

  As shown in FIG. 52 (b-1), the moving image data PD55 for A after branching is superimposed on the background image PC17 for A after branching where a large number of jellyfish are shown. Reference data (I picture data) PD60 corresponding to an image to which a certain movement target character CH9 is added is set. Also, as shown in FIGS. 52 (b-2) and (b-3), difference data (P picture) corresponding to an image that does not have the background image PC17 but the moving target character CH9 moves in a predetermined direction. Data, B picture data) PD61 and PD62 are set. Still image data for one frame is generated from the reference data PD60, and the difference data PD61 and PD62 are applied to the reference data PD60, so that each difference data PD61 is applied to the background image PC17 set in the reference data PD60. , Still image data for one frame to which the movement target character CH9 set in the PD 62 is added is created.

  In the post-branch B image data PD56, as shown in FIG. 52 (c-1), a large number of fish are superimposed on the post-branch B background image PC18 so that the same boy character is used. Reference data (I picture data) PD63 corresponding to an image to which a certain movement target character CH9 is added is set. Also, as shown in FIGS. 52 (c-2) and (c-3), difference data (P picture) corresponding to an image that does not have the background image PC18 but the moving target character CH9 moves in a predetermined direction. Data, B picture data) PD64 and PD65 are set. Still image data for one frame is generated from the reference data PD63, and the difference data PD64 and PD65 are applied to the reference data PD63, so that each difference data PD64 with respect to the background image PC18 set in the reference data PD63. , Still image data for one frame to which the movement target character CH9 set in the PD 65 is added is created.

  Using each of the moving image data PD54 to PD56, super reach display corresponding to effect branching is executed. Specifically, when the super reach display is started, the pre-branch effect is executed by each still image data created from the pre-branch moving image data PD54.

  Thereafter, either the after-branch A effect or the after-B branch effect is selected by reaching the branch timing. The selection is performed when the post-branch A effect is selected when the production operation device 48 is operated at the determination timing before the branch timing, and the production operation device 48 is not operated at the determination timing. After branching, the effect for B is selected. When the post-branch A effect is selected, the post-branch A effect is executed by each still image data created from the post-branch A moving image data PD55. On the other hand, when the post-branch B effect is selected, the post-branch B effect is executed by each still image data created from the post-branch B moving image data PD56.

  Note that the specific opportunity for selecting either the post-branch A effect or the post-branch B effect is not limited to the above, and the directing operation device 48 in a specific operation mode at the determination timing. When the operation is performed, when the production operation device 48 is operated for a specific number of times or for a specific period at the determination timing, or after the start of the current super reach display, the time is determined in advance. One or more effects may be selected when one or a plurality of game balls are in the entrance portion.

  A specific processing configuration for performing super reach display using the moving image data PD54 to PD56 will be described.

  FIG. 53 is a flowchart showing a moving image calculation process executed by the display CPU 72. The moving image calculation process is executed in the background calculation process of step S615 in the task process (FIG. 15). Note that the calculation processing for moving images is started when a data table corresponding to the game times in which the super reach display is performed is set.

  First, in step S2901, it is determined whether or not it is after the branch timing based on the currently set data table. If it is the timing before branching, it is determined in step S2902 whether the pre-branch presentation is being executed based on the currently set data table.

  If the pre-branch effect is not being executed, this means that the timing is before the start timing of the super reach display, and thus the process proceeds to step S2903. In step S2903, based on the currently set data table, it is determined whether it is time to decode the pre-branch moving image data PD54.

  If it is time to decode the pre-branch video data PD54, in step S2904, various addresses are grasped based on the currently set data table. Specifically, the address where the pre-branch video data PD54 is pre-transferred in the expansion buffer 81 of the VRAM 75 and the pre-branch video data PD54 are decoded to obtain still image data for a plurality of frames. When it is created, the address of the area where the still image data is stored in the change area 81b is grasped.

  Thereafter, in step S2905, the pre-branch decoding designation information is stored. Incidentally, the timing determined in step S2903 is set so that the decoding of the pre-branch moving image data PD54 is completed before the pre-branch presentation is started.

  When a negative determination is made in step S2903, or after execution of step S2905, calculation processing corresponding to the timing before the pre-branch effect occurs is executed in step S2906. Specifically, based on the currently set data table, the background image data is grasped, and various parameters of the image data are calculated to update the control information. Thereafter, this calculation process is terminated.

  When the calculation process for the moving image is executed as described above, in the subsequent drawing list output process (step S408), the background image data in the image corresponding to the timing before the pre-branch effect occurs is drawn. A drawing list is generated and transmitted to the VDP 76. Further, when the current calculation process is the timing for specifying the decoding of the pre-branch moving image data PD54, the decoding specifying information indicating that the decoding should be performed, and the pre-branching moving image data PD54 described above. Information on various addresses is set in the drawing list.

  If it is determined in step S2902 that the pre-branch effect is being executed, the process proceeds to step S2907. In step S2907, based on the currently set data table, it is determined whether or not it is time to decode the moving image data PD55 and PD56 for branching.

  If it is time to decode the after-branch moving image data PD55 and PD56, it is determined in step S2908 whether or not the decoding target is the after-branch A moving image data PD55. Specifically, a key for determining whether or not the production operation device 48 is operated at the determination timing before the branch timing is set in the data table, and when the key is confirmed. Determines whether or not a flag indicating that the production operating device 48 has been operated is set in the work RAM 73. Incidentally, the flag is set in the command response process in step S403 when reception of the operation generation command is confirmed in step S402 in the V interrupt process (FIG. 11) of the display CPU 72. In step S2908, an affirmative determination is made when a flag indicating that the effect operating device 48 has been operated is set, and a negative determination is made when the flag is not set.

  When the decoding target is the moving image data PD55 for A after branching (step S2908: YES), in step S2909, various addresses are grasped based on the currently set data table. Specifically, the post-branch A moving image data PD55 is pre-transferred in the decompression buffer 81 of the VRAM 75, and the post-branching A moving image data PD55 is decoded and a plurality of frames of still images are decoded. When the data is created, the expansion buffer 81 grasps the address of the area where the still image data is stored. Thereafter, in step S2910, post-branch A-use decode designation information is stored.

  On the other hand, if the decoding target is the post-branch B moving image data PD56 (step S2908: NO), in step S2911, various addresses are grasped based on the currently set data table. Specifically, the post-branch B moving image data PD56 is pre-transferred in the expansion buffer 81 of the VRAM 75, and the post-branch B moving image data PD56 is decoded to decode a plurality of frames of still images. When the data is created, the expansion buffer 81 grasps the address of the area where the still image data is stored. Thereafter, in step S2912, the decode designation information for A after branching is stored.

  Incidentally, the timing determined in step S2907 is set so that decoding of the target post-branch moving image data PD55 and PD56 is completed before any post-branch effect is started.

  If a negative determination is made in step S2907 or after execution of step S2910 or step S2912, the process proceeds to step S2913. In step S2913, the address where the still image data corresponding to the current frame number is stored among the still image data created from the pre-branch moving image data. This address is grasped based on the currently set data table. In the subsequent step S2914, the parameter of the still image data is calculated and derived, and the information for the derived parameter is written in an area secured in correspondence with the still image data in the work RAM 73 to update the control information. To do. Thereafter, in step S2915, moving image designation information indicating that still image data created from moving image data is to be used is stored, and then this calculation process ends.

  When the calculation processing for moving images is executed as described above, in the subsequent drawing list output processing (step S408), still image data created from the moving image data before branching is included as a drawing target, A drawing list in which parameters of still image data are set is created and transmitted to the VDP 76. In addition, when the current arithmetic processing timing is to designate decoding of the post-branch A moving image data PD55, the decoding designation information indicating that the decoding should be performed and the post-branching A moving image data PD55 are included. The information on the various addresses is set in the drawing list. On the other hand, if the current calculation process is the timing for specifying the decoding of the B moving image data PD56 after branching, the decoding specifying information indicating that the decoding should be performed and the moving image data PD56 for B after branching are included. The information on the various addresses is set in the drawing list.

  Since the background image and the effect image are mixed in the still image data, it is not necessary to set the effect image separately from the still image data. Therefore, when still image data is set as a drawing target, the effect calculation processing in step S616 is skipped. However, since the symbol is displayed separately from the still image data, the symbol calculation processing is not skipped. Therefore, when the still image data is set in the drawing list, the pattern image data is also set in the drawing list. The same applies to other cases where still image data is set in the drawing list.

  If it is determined in step S2901 that it is after the branch timing, the process proceeds to step S2916. In step S2916, based on the currently set data table, it is determined whether or not the effect to be executed is a post-branch A effect. Incidentally, if an affirmative determination is made in step S2908, data corresponding to the post-branch A effect is set as data to be referred to after branching in the data table, and if a negative determination is made, in the data table Data corresponding to the post-branch B effect is set as data to be referred to after branching.

  When the effect to be executed is the effect for A after branching, the process proceeds to step S2917. In step S2917, the address where the still image data corresponding to the current frame number is stored among the still image data created from the moving image data for A after branching is grasped. This address is grasped based on the currently set data table. In the subsequent step S2918, the parameter of the still image data is calculated and derived, and the information for the derived parameter is written in an area secured in correspondence with the still image data in the work RAM 73 to update the control information. To do. Thereafter, in step S2919, moving image designation information indicating that still image data created from the moving image data is to be used is stored, and then this calculation process ends.

  When the calculation processing for moving images is executed as described above, in the subsequent drawing list output processing (step S408), the still image data created from the moving image data for A after branching is included as a drawing target. A drawing list in which parameters of the still image data are set is created and transmitted to the VDP 76.

  If the effect to be executed is the effect for B after branching, the process proceeds to step S2920. In step S2920, an address where still image data corresponding to the current frame number is stored among the still image data created from the moving image data for B after branching is grasped. This address is grasped based on the currently set data table. In the subsequent step S2921, the parameter of the still image data is calculated and derived, and the information for the derived parameter is written in the area secured in correspondence with the still image data in the work RAM 73 to update the control information. To do. Thereafter, in step S2922, moving image designation information indicating that still image data created from the moving image data is to be used is stored, and then this calculation process is terminated.

  When the calculation processing for moving images is executed as described above, in the subsequent drawing list output processing (step S408), still image data created from the moving image data for B after branching is included as a drawing target, A drawing list in which parameters of the still image data are set is created and transmitted to the VDP 76.

  Next, decoding processing executed by the moving picture decoder 93 of the VDP 76 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. The decoding process is activated when any decoding designation information is set in the drawing list transmitted from the display CPU 72. The decoding process is started asynchronously with the drawing process (FIG. 13) executed by the control unit 91 of the VDP 76 and the output process (FIG. 49) executed by the display circuit 94.

  First, in step S3001, the address of the moving image data specified this time is grasped from the information of the transfer destination address specified in the drawing list. In subsequent step S3002, the area of the development destination of the moving image data is grasped from the information of the development destination address designated in the drawing list.

  In subsequent step S3003, the moving image data is read from the address grasped in step S3001, and the moving image data is decoded. Then, each still image data of the decoding result is written in each area of the address grasped in step S3002. Thereafter, the decoding process is terminated.

  Next, moving image setting processing executed by the VDP 76 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  The moving image setting process is executed as a part of the content grasping process executed in step S504 of the drawing process (FIG. 13). In addition, when moving image designation information is set in the drawing list, the setting processing for the moving image is executed. Here, in the drawing list, since the moving image designation information is set in association with the still image data to be drawn, the setting processing for moving images is performed with the drawing order of the still image data in the current drawing list. It is activated when it becomes.

  Note that in the drawing order in the drawing list, still image data is set as an order prior to the image data for symbols, and therefore, after the setting processing for the moving image is executed and the still image data is drawn, The pattern is drawn.

  First, in step S3101, information on the address where the still image data to be set this time is stored is grasped from the drawing list. In subsequent step S3102, the still image data to be drawn this time is grasped from the address information grasped in step S3101. In a succeeding step S3103, the parameter of the still image data is grasped from information set in the drawing list. Thereafter, the setting process ends.

  By executing the setting process for moving images as described above, still image data in a state in which parameters are applied to the drawing target frame regions 82a and 82b in the subsequent writing process (step S505). Is drawn. In addition, since the image data for symbols is also set in the current drawing list, the image data for symbols is rendered so that the symbols are displayed in front of the still image corresponding to the still image data. . Then, an image signal is output to the symbol display device 31 based on the drawing data, whereby an image for one frame constituting the super reach display is displayed on the display screen G.

  As described above, since a series of images corresponding to the super reach display is displayed using the moving image data PD54 to PD56, the images for each frame of the moving image data PD54 to PD56 are individually set as still image data. Compared to the storage structure, the super-reach display effect is performed using live-action video and high-definition images while suppressing the storage capacity required to store image data in the NAND flash memory 102. be able to.

  Further, in the super reach display, the pre-branch presentation is performed until the branch timing, and after the branch timing, the content of the destination presentation is switched according to the operation mode for the presentation operation device 48. Thereby, it is possible to suppress the super reach display from being uniform and provide various effects.

  In this case, the moving image data PD54 to PD56 are pre-branch moving image data PD54 corresponding to the pre-branch effect, post-branch A moving image data PD55 corresponding to the post-branch A effect, and post-branch B. It is set separately from the after-branch B-use moving image data PD56 corresponding to the production effect. Therefore, until the branch timing, each still image data created by decoding the pre-branch moving image data PD54 is sequentially drawn in the frame order set in the moving image data PD54. A pre-production can be performed. In addition, after the branch timing, each still image data created by decoding the side corresponding to the execution target among the moving image data PD55 and PD56 for both branches is set in the moving image data PD55 and PD56. The target post-branch effect can be performed simply by sequentially drawing in the order of frames.

  When still image data for a plurality of frames is created by decoding from moving image data, it is necessary to draw each still image data in the frame order set in the moving image data. It is difficult to cope with the above branching in moving image data. In addition, both a single moving image data in which a pre-branch effect and a post-branch A effect are set and a single moving image data in which a pre-branch effect and a post-branch B effect are set are prepared in advance. The structure to keep is also considered. However, since it is necessary to output moving image data from still image data corresponding to the first sequence of frames, it is difficult to output still image data from an intermediate sequence of frames. Then, when super reach display is started, it becomes necessary to decode both moving image data. In this case, there is a concern that the processing load of the VDP 76 will increase, and the storage capacity of the VRAM 75 will need to be increased. By comparing and preparing the moving image data PD54 to PD56 as described above as compared with each assumed configuration, the moving image data PD54 to PD56 to be used are switched according to the situation up to the branch timing. Therefore, the super reach display as described above can be suitably executed.

  When super-reach display is started, decoding is performed on the pre-branch video data PD54, and post-branch A video data PD55 and post-branch B video data PD56. Do not decode. As a result, the processing load when starting the super reach display can be reduced as compared with the configuration in which all the moving image data PD54 to PD56 are decoded together.

  In addition, the determination of whether to distribute to the post-branch A effect or the post-branch B effect is performed in the middle of execution of the pre-branch effect and before the branch timing. Of the moving image data PD 55 for A and the moving image data PD 56 for B after branching, only the moving image data corresponding to the distribution destination effect is decoded. Thereby, it is possible to smoothly start a new moving image display after completion of the pre-branch effect. In addition, the processing load related to decoding can be suppressed and the storage capacity required for decoding in the VRAM 75 can be reduced as compared with the configuration in which the post-branch moving image data is decoded.

  In addition, even if it applies the structure which distinguishes and memorize | stores moving image data PD54-PD56 as mentioned above with respect to the effect different from the effect in which the effect of advancing destination is arbitrarily selected according to the situation to a branch timing. Good. For example, in a configuration in which a first effect (first reach display) and a second effect (second reach display) that are common from the start timing to the middle and are different from each other in the middle are set. It is good also as a structure which has the 1st moving image data for displaying the image from the start to the middle, and the 2nd moving image data and 3rd moving image data corresponding to the aspect from the middle. In this case, since the first moving image data can be used in common, the entire data capacity can be suppressed as compared with the configuration in which the entire moving image data is individually provided for each effect.

  In addition, for example, as a display effect, when only normal reach display is performed, when the first super reach display is performed after the normal reach display is performed, and after the normal reach display is performed, the second super reach display is performed. In the configuration in which the display is set, moving image data for normal reach display, moving image data for first super reach display, and moving image data for second super reach display are set. It is good also as a structure. In this case, in the game times in which normal reach display is performed, still image data created from moving image data for normal reach display may be sequentially displayed. Further, in the game times in which the first super reach display is performed after the normal reach display is performed, the still image data created from the normal reach display moving image data is sequentially displayed, and then the first super reach display moving image. The still image data created from the data may be displayed sequentially. Further, in the game times in which the second super reach display is performed after the normal reach display is performed, the still image data created from the normal reach display moving image data is sequentially displayed, and then the second super reach display moving image. The still image data created from the data may be displayed sequentially.

  According to this configuration, since the game times for performing the first super reach display and the game times for performing the second super reach display may be used in common, the moving image data for normal reach display may be used in common. Compared to a configuration in which the contents of normal reach display are included in each of the moving image data of the super-reach display and the moving image data of the second super-reach display, the entire data capacity can be suppressed.

  In addition, the display effect may be set such that the after-branch A effect is performed without using the before-branch effect, and the after-branch B effect is performed without using the before-branch effect. May be configured. Even in the configuration in which these display effects are set, the moving image data PD55 for A after branching is set separately from the moving image data PD54 for before branching. Similarly, the moving image data for before branching is set. In addition to the image data PD54, the post-branch B moving image data PD56 is set, so that the production can be started in the post-branch A effect unit and the post-branch B production unit. Can start.

  Further, a configuration in which I picture data as reference data exists for each predetermined effect period may be applied to a series of effects that do not cause branching as described above. For example, in a configuration in which a series of moving images is displayed over the entire production period when the overall series production is started, the first production corresponding to the front side of the overall production period. The first moving image data and the second moving image data may be set separately for the period and the second effect period corresponding to the rear side. In this case, by using the first moving image data and the second moving image data, it is possible to perform a series of effects for the whole, and in the second effect period without passing through the first effect period. It is possible to produce an effect. By the way, in the above-mentioned overall series of effects, a configuration may be adopted in which a predetermined character moves in front of a predetermined background. In this case, an I picture is used for both the first moving image data and the second moving image data. A predetermined background image is set in the data.

  Further, the aspect after the pre-branch effect or after the common effect is not limited to two patterns, and may be three patterns, four patterns, or five patterns or more. In this case, the effect of having the moving image data PD54 to PD56 individually as described above is further enhanced.

  Further, the moving picture decoder 93 may be configured to execute a process corresponding to the decoding process (FIG. 54A) only by the operation of the hardware circuit without using a program. Further, the moving picture decoder 93 may not be built in the VDP 76 but may be provided separately from the VDP 76. In this case, the moving picture decoder 93 may be provided on the signal path between the VDP 76 and the symbol display device 31, and a signal path is provided between the VRAM 75 and the symbol display device 31 separately from the signal path. A moving picture decoder 93 may be provided above.

  Further, in the configuration in which the determination timing of the effect after branching is the same as or close to the branch timing, the moving image data PD55 for branching A and the data for B after branching during the period when the effect before branching is being executed. The decoding may be performed on both the moving image data PD56.

  Further, the configuration using a plurality of types of moving image data as described above may be applied not to the reach effect but to the jackpot effect or the pre-reach notice effect.

<Configuration for performing curved trajectory effects using character images>
Next, a configuration in the case of performing a curved trajectory effect using a character image will be described.

  The curve trajectory effect is an effect in which one of a plurality of types of character images is selected and the character image moves along a predetermined curve trajectory. The curved trajectory effect is executed when the internal lottery by the sound emission control device 60 is won. Specifically, the sound emission control device 60 executes a process of determining whether or not to execute a curved orbit effect using a predetermined effect random number counter. If it is determined in the determination process that the curved track effect is to be executed, a curved track effect command is transmitted to the display control device 70. The display control device 70 performs control so that the curved trajectory effect is displayed on the display screen G based on the reception of the curved trajectory effect command.

  Here, in this pachinko machine, a plurality of types of curve trajectory effect image data are set in correspondence with a plurality of types of character images that can be displayed as a curve trajectory effect. The curved trajectory effect image data will be described with reference to FIG. FIGS. 55A to 55C are explanatory diagrams for explaining the curved trajectory effect image data.

  As shown in FIGS. 55A to 55C, first sprite data SPD1, second sprite data SPD2, and third sprite data SPD3 having different character images are set as curved trajectory effect image data. Specifically, the first sprite data SPD1 corresponds to the character image “Jellyfish”, the second sprite data SPD2 corresponds to the character image “fish”, and the third sprite data SPD3 corresponds to “shell”. It corresponds to the character image of. The sprite data SPD1, SPD2, and SPD3 are set to the same resolution (size), and the reference pixels used for determining the coordinates are set to the same (center). By selecting any one of the sprite data SPD1, SPD2, and SPD3, the character image that is the target of the current curved trajectory effect is selected. Then, the curved trajectory effect is executed by using the selected sprite data and the curved trajectory animation data D1 corresponding to the curved trajectory effect among the animation data.

  The curved trajectory animation data D1 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 56 is an explanatory diagram of the curve trajectory animation data D1.

  The curve trajectory animation data D1 includes frame information A (1), A (2),... (Hereinafter referred to as A (x) for convenience of description) that specifies the number of frames after the start of the curve trajectory effect. The coordinate information B (1), B (2),... (Hereinafter referred to as B (x) for convenience of description) is set in a one-to-one correspondence with the frame information A (x). In the frame information A (x), the start timing of the curved track effect is set as the frame information A (1), and the end timing of the curved track effect is set for each frame as the frame information A (m). That is, the frame information A (x) is information indicating a time series.

  In the coordinate information B (x), the X coordinate and the Y coordinate of the curved orbit effect image on the display screen G are set. The coordinate information B (x) is set by gradually changing so as to draw a single curved trajectory (specific route).

  Here, since the frame information A (1) is set to information corresponding to the start timing of the curved track effect, the coordinate information B (1) is a position where the character image is displayed when the curved track effect is started. It can be said that this is information indicating the initial position of the character image in the curve trajectory effect.

  On the other hand, since the frame information A (m) is set to information corresponding to the end timing of the curved trajectory effect, the coordinate information B (m) is information indicating the final position of the character image when the curved trajectory effect is performed. It can be said.

  Note that other parameter information C (1), C (2),... (Hereinafter referred to as other parameter information C (x)) is set in a one-to-one correspondence with the frame information A (x). The other parameter information C (x) includes information related to other parameter information such as a rotation angle, a scale, a uniform α value, and α data designation. The display CPU 72 grasps the coordinate information B (x) and other parameter information C (x) applied to the selected sprite data by referring to the curve trajectory animation data D1, and draws based on the grasp result. Create a list. Then, the drawing data is created based on the drawing list, thereby expressing how the character image moves along a series of curved trajectories.

  Below, the concrete process structure for performing the said curve orbit effect is demonstrated.

  FIG. 57 is a flowchart showing a curve trajectory effect command handling process executed by the display CPU 72. The curve trajectory effect command handling process is executed in the command handling process of step S403 in the V interrupt process (FIG. 11).

  First, in step S3201, it is determined whether or not a curved orbit effect command is received from the sound emission control device 60. If the curved orbit effect command is not received, the curved orbit effect command handling process is terminated, and if the curved orbit effect command is received, the process proceeds to step S3202.

  In step S3202, a data table corresponding to the current curve trajectory effect command is grasped. In step S3203, designation information for designating the curved trajectory animation data D1 is set in the data table. The display CPU 72 recognizes that the curve trajectory animation data D1 is a reference target in the curved trajectory effect by grasping the designation information.

  Thereafter, in step S3204, a curved trajectory effect image related to the current curved trajectory effect is grasped based on the curved trajectory effect command. Specifically, when it is determined that the curved light path effect is to be performed, the voice light emission control device 60 executes a character image determination process that is a target of the curved track effect with the determination. Specifically, a selection random number counter used when selecting a character image is separately provided, and a process of selecting a character image to be subjected to a curved trajectory effect is executed based on the value of the selection random number counter. To do. Then, the sound emission control device 60 transmits a curved orbit effect command including numerical information related to the character image used in the current curved orbit effect (hereinafter, referred to as character specific numerical information) to the display control device 70. It has become. The character-specific numerical information is set so as to be able to take a numerical range corresponding to the number of types of character images that can perform a curved trajectory effect. Specifically, there are three types of character images that are targets of the curved trajectory effect. In the situation, it is set so that a value from “0 to 2” can be taken. In step S3204, the character specifying numerical value information included in the curve trajectory effect command is grasped.

  The character image is determined based on the dedicated selection random number counter. However, the character image is not limited to this, and is determined based on the value of the effect random number counter used in the lottery process of the curved track effect. It is good.

  Further, the winning probability of the character image to be selected may be set to be different for each character image, and may be changed according to the gaming situation. For example, in the case of performing normal fluctuation display, the second sprite data SPD2 is set to be more easily selected than the first sprite data SPD1 and the third sprite data SPD3. The data SPD1 may be configured to be more easily selected than the second sprite data SPD2 and the third sprite data SPD3.

  In subsequent step S3205, based on the character specific number information grasped in step S3204, processing for setting specific information of image data corresponding to the character image to be displayed for the current curved trajectory effect is executed in the data table. To do.

  Specifically, an image specifying table is stored in the change area 73b of the work RAM 73 in association with the character specifying numerical information. The image specifying table is a table in which specific information for specifying the curve trajectory effect image data is set in a one-to-one correspondence with the value of the character specifying numerical information. By referring to the image specifying table, the specific information of the curve trajectory effect image data corresponding to the value of the character specifying numerical information is grasped. Specifically, when the value of the character specific numerical information is “0”, the specific information of the first sprite data SPD1 is set in the data table, and the value of the character specific numerical information is “1”. In this case, the specific information of the second sprite data SPD2 is set in the data table, and when the value of the character specific numerical information is “2”, the specific information of the third sprite data SPD3 is set in the data table. To complete the corresponding process. The display CPU 72 recognizes the specific information, thereby recognizing the curve trajectory effect image data set as a drawing target in the current curve trajectory effect.

  Note that the curved trajectory animation data D1 is set as a transfer request target in the process of step S404 of the V interrupt process (FIG. 11).

  Next, the curve trajectory effect calculation process executed by the display CPU 72 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. The curve trajectory effect calculation process is executed when the currently set data table corresponds to the curve trajectory effect in the effect calculation process of step S616 in the task process (FIG. 15).

  First, in step S3301, the curve trajectory effect image data is grasped. Specifically, specific information of the curve trajectory effect image data set in the currently set data table is grasped, and the curve trajectory effect image data is grasped from the grasp result. Note that the control start processing for the curved trajectory effect image data has already been completed.

  In subsequent step S3302, frame information A (x) is updated. Specifically, a process of adding “1” to x is executed, and the frame information A (x) to be referenced is updated. For example, when the frame information A (x) is the frame information A (1), the frame information A (2) is updated.

  The frame information A (x) is initially set to “1” at the timing when the curved trajectory effect is started.

  Thereafter, in step S3303, the coordinates of the image data grasped in step S3301 are updated. Specifically, the curve trajectory animation data D1 is read from the specific information set in the data table in step S3203, and the currently set frame information A (x) is referred to by referring to the curve trajectory animation data D1. The corresponding coordinate information B (x) is specified, and the coordinate information B (x) is set as the coordinates of the image data.

  Thereafter, in step S3304, other parameter information C (x) corresponding to the frame information A (x) updated in step S3302 is acquired, and the other parameter information is updated.

  Thereafter, in step S3305, the curve trajectory effect designation information for causing the VDP 76 to recognize that the curve trajectory effect is to be performed is stored, and this calculation process is terminated.

  When the above processing is performed, a drawing list in which the curve trajectory effect image data is set is created in the subsequent drawing list output processing (step S408). In this case, the image data is associated with parameter information derived based on the curved trajectory animation data D1. In the drawing list, curve trajectory effect designation information indicating that processing corresponding to the curve trajectory effect should be performed is set.

  Next, the curve trajectory effect setting process executed by the VDP 76 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. The curve trajectory effect setting process is activated when the curve trajectory effect designation information is set in the drawing list in the content grasping process (step S504) of the drawing process (FIG. 13).

  First, in step S3401, the image data set in the drawing list is grasped. Since the curved track effect image data is set in the drawing list, the curved track effect image data is grasped.

  Thereafter, in step S3402, the coordinate information B (x) associated with the image data in the drawing list is grasped, and in step S3403, other parameter information is grasped, and this setting process is terminated.

  From the above, the curved trajectory effect image data is derived for the drawing target frame regions 82a and 82b based on the parameter information set in the drawing list, specifically, the curved trajectory animation data D1. Drawing is performed with the parameter information applied. When the curved orbit effect images are different, that is, when the character specific numerical information is different, the same drawing data is created except that the grasped sprite data is different.

  The state of the curved trajectory effect will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 60A is an explanatory diagram showing a state of the display screen G when the first sprite data SPD1 is selected as the curved trajectory effect image data, and FIG. 60B is a second sprite as the curved trajectory effect image data. It is explanatory drawing which shows the mode of the display screen G when data SPD2 is selected. Although the effect image other than the character image related to the background image and the curve trajectory effect is omitted, the background image and the design are actually displayed.

  When the curved trajectory effect is started, as shown by the solid line in FIG. 60A, the first character image CP1 of “jellyfish” corresponding to the first sprite data SPD1 is displayed at the initial position.

  Thereafter, each time the image is updated, the first character image CP1 gradually moves along a single curved trajectory La. Then, when the mth frame from the start of the curve trajectory effect, that is, when the mth image update is performed, the first character image CP1 is at the final position as shown by the broken line in FIG. Is displayed, and the curve trajectory effect ends.

  When the second sprite data SPD2 is selected as a drawing target, as shown in FIG. 60B, the second character image CP2 of “fish” corresponding to the second sprite data SPD2 is on the curved trajectory La. Will move along. When the third sprite data SPD3 is selected as a drawing target, the character image of “shell” corresponding to the third sprite data SPD3 moves along the curved trajectory La. In this case, the sprite data SPD1, SPD2, and SPD3 are set to the same resolution (size), and the reference pixels used when determining the coordinates are set to the same (center), so that they are at the same position. A character image will be displayed.

  That is, specific information of image data (curve trajectory effect image data) corresponding to the character image (curve trajectory effect image data) to be drawn for the current curve trajectory effect is set in the data table, and based on the specific information. The image data to be drawn is specified, and a drawing list in which the specified image data and parameter information applied to the image data are set is created. The parameter information is derived based on the curve trajectory animation data D1 in the data table. Thus, it is possible to perform a curved trajectory effect of a plurality of types of character images using one type of curved trajectory animation data D1. Thereby, compared with the structure which prepares a data table for every character image which can become a display target, reduction of storage capacity can be aimed at.

  Instead of the coordinate information B (x) or in addition to the coordinate information B (x), other parameter information C (x) such as angle and scale information may be changed. Even in this case, display effects of different types of character images can be displayed using one data table. In this case, by changing the other parameter information C (x) in accordance with the change of the coordinate information B (x), a display effect such as moving along the curved trajectory La while the character image gradually increases is provided. Since it is possible to display, it is possible to diversify display effects.

  Further, two or more character images may be displayed at the same time, and a display effect for moving these character images along different curved trajectories may be displayed. Thereby, the degree of attention to the display screen G can be further increased. As a specific configuration, a plurality of types of coordinate information B1 (x), B2 (x),... With different trajectories are set in the curved trajectory animation data D1, and different for each of the plurality of types of image data. A configuration in which coordinate information is associated is preferable.

  In the curve trajectory animation data D1, the coordinate information B (x) is set as information indicating time series. However, the coordinate information B (x) is not limited thereto, and may be set as function information, for example. In this case, in the process of updating the parameter information in the display CPU 72, a process of calculating coordinates by calculating the trajectory function may be executed. Thereby, the data capacity can be reduced as compared with the configuration in which the coordinate information B (x) is time-series information. However, in such a configuration, the orbit function becomes higher in dimension as the orbit becomes more complicated. This increases the processing load required to calculate the coordinates. Also, depending on the trajectory, the function may not be defined. If attention is paid to these points, the coordinate information B (x) is preferably time-series information.

<About the configuration for displaying the curve fluctuation>
A configuration for performing curve fluctuation display will be described.

  The curve variation display is a symbol variation display performed in a variation display mode different from the normal variation display. Specifically, in the normal fluctuation display, the symbols in each of the symbol rows Z1 to Z3 are displayed so as to scroll in a predetermined direction (for example, from right to left) with periodicity. The symbols are variably displayed from the initial position to the final position along the curved trajectory (specific route).

  Further, the curve fluctuation display is executed when reach display is performed. Specifically, the curve variation display is executed after the upper symbol row Z1 and the lower symbol row Z3 are stopped and the display screen G is switched to the display mode for reach.

  Normal fluctuation display and curve fluctuation display are performed using the same sprite data. The symbol sprite data used for variation display and the symbol display position in normal variation display will be described with reference to FIG. 61 (a) and 61 (b) are explanatory diagrams for explaining the symbol sprite data. FIG. 61 (c) shows the range of the virtual two-dimensional plane to be calculated by the display CPU 72 and the normal variation display. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the relationship with the position of the symbol sprite data in the case of being performed. FIG. 61C shows only the symbols of the upper symbol row Z1 for convenience of explanation, and the illustration of the symbols of the middle symbol row Z2 and the lower symbol row Z3 is omitted.

  As shown in FIGS. 61 (a) and 61 (b), the main symbol sprite data SPD4 indicating the main symbol and the sub symbol sprite data SPD5 indicating the sub symbol are set in the symbol sprite data. As shown in FIG. 2, nine types of main symbol sprite data SPD4 are prepared corresponding to the numbers "1" to "9", but they are the same except that the contents of the image are different. Therefore, in the following description, the main symbol sprite data corresponding to each number will be collectively described as main symbol sprite data SPD4.

  The main symbol sprite data SPD4 and the sub symbol sprite data SPD5 have the same size. In the normal variation display, as shown in FIG. 61 (c), both are set such that the distance between the center of the main symbol sprite data SPD4 and the center of the sub symbol sprite data SPD5 is “Xk” pixels on the display screen G. Displayed alternately. Then, as shown in FIG. 61 (c), corresponding to the upper symbol row Z1, the middle symbol row Z2, and the lower symbol row Z3, the symbol sprites on the lines of Y, Ya + Yb, Ya + 2Yb with respect to the reference coordinates. The center of the data is arranged.

  Note that the value of “Xk” is set so that the symbol sprite data includes at least three consecutive in the X direction within the drawing range PL2, and the symbol sprite data continues in the Y direction within the drawing range PL2. The values of “Ya” and “Yb” are set so as to include at least three. That is, at least nine symbol sprite data are included in the drawing range PL2.

  In the symbol variation display, a reference table is used as a means for grasping a symbol to be drawn. The reference table is a table in which specific information for specifying symbol sprite data is set in a one-to-one correspondence with numerical information. Three types of reference tables are prepared corresponding to the main symbol forms of the symbol columns Z1 to Z3. Specifically, the upper symbol column table TD1, the middle symbol column table TD2, and the lower symbol column table. TD3 is stored in the regular area 73a.

  These reference tables will be described with reference to FIG. 62A to 62C are explanatory diagrams for explaining the upper symbol row table TD1, the middle symbol row table TD2, and the lower symbol row table TD3. In each of the symbol row tables TD1 to TD3, “1” to “9” are set with specific information of the main symbol sprite data SPD4 corresponding to each number, and “sub” is sub symbol sprite data. SPD5 specific information is set.

  As shown in FIGS. 62A to 62C, each symbol row table TD1 to TD3 specifies the specification information of the main symbol sprite data SPD4 or the specification of the sub symbol sprite data SPD5 in correspondence with the symbol number which is numerical information. Specifically, the main symbol sprite data SPD4 is set in correspondence with odd symbol numbers, and the sub symbol sprite data SPD5 is set in correspondence with even symbol numbers. That is, the specific information of the main symbol sprite data SPD4 and the specific information of the sub symbol sprite data SPD5 are set alternately.

  The specific information of each sub-symbol sprite data SPD5 includes numerical information set in ascending order. Thereby, it is possible to grasp which symbol number corresponds to the sub symbol sprite data SPD5.

  The individual symbol row tables TD1 to TD3 will be described individually. In the upper symbol row table TD1, as shown in FIG. 62A, specific information of the main symbol sprite data SPD4 is set so as to be in descending order. .

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 62 (c), in the lower symbol sequence table TD3, the specific information of the main symbol sprite data SPD4 is set so that the main symbol numbers are in ascending order.

  In the middle symbol row table TD2, as shown in FIG. 62 (b), the main symbol numbers are in ascending order, and the main symbol sprite data SPD4 and the sub symbol sprite data SPD5 corresponding to the number “4”. And are added.

  Here, the animation data is not used in the normal variation display, while the curve trajectory animation data is used in the curve variation display. The curved trajectory animation data is the same as the curved trajectory animation data D1 except that the coordinate information B (x) is different due to the different curved trajectory (specific path). It is data.

  In particular, the coordinate information B (m) corresponding to the final frame information A (m) of the curve trajectory animation data is set to the coordinates of the intersection of the middle symbol row Z2 and the left line L1 on the display screen G. That is, the coordinate information B (m) is set at the stop position of the left line L1 of the middle symbol row Z2.

  Next, a specific processing configuration of normal fluctuation display and curve fluctuation display will be described. Here, since the processing to be executed is different between the normal variation display (variation display that scrolls in a single direction) and the curve variation display, the processing related to the normal variation display is described first, and then the curve variation is displayed. Processing related to display will be described.

  A normal variation display calculation process will be described with reference to FIG. The calculation process is executed in the symbol calculation process in step S617 when the symbol is being displayed in a variable manner. In this calculation processing, calculation processing related to drawing of symbols is sequentially executed in the order of the upper symbol row Z1, the middle symbol row Z2, and the lower symbol row Z3. In each symbol row, the calculation processing related to the symbol drawing is executed in order from the symbol with the smallest X coordinate (in order from the left).

  Specifically, first, in step S3501, the upper symbol row table TD1 is set as a reference table.

  Thereafter, in step S 3502, “0” is initially set to the symbol sequence specifying counter Cy stored in a predetermined storage area of the work RAM 73. The symbol string specifying counter Cy is a counter for causing the display CPU 72 to recognize a symbol string that is a calculation target. Specifically, the symbol sequence specific counter Cy is a counter that can take a numerical value of “0 to 2” in correspondence with three symbol sequences, and “0” corresponds to the upper symbol sequence Z1. , “1” corresponds to the middle symbol row Z2, and “2” corresponds to the lower symbol row Z3.

  Similarly, “1” is initially set to the update number counter Cc stored in a predetermined storage area of the work RAM 73. The update number counter Cc is a counter for recognizing the number of times the calculation processing related to the drawing of the symbol is performed in one symbol row, and can take a numerical value of “1 to 5”.

  In step S3503, the current symbol string to be set is grasped. Specifically, the value of the symbol string specifying counter Cy is grasped. In the current step S3502, since the symbol string specifying counter Cy is initially set to “0”, “0” is grasped.

  Thereafter, in step S3504, based on the currently set data table, it is determined whether or not the grasped variation display mode of the symbol sequence is high-speed variation display.

  Here, in the normal symbol variation display, a high-speed variation display and a low-speed variation display, which are relatively different in speed, are set. When the game display effect is executed in the symbol display device 31, all symbols are displayed. Start display of symbols in columns Z1 to Z3 → High-speed variation display in all symbol columns Z1 to Z3 → Display mode of sequential stop of each symbol row Z1 to Z3 via low-speed variation display is displayed. Information regarding each variation display mode is set in advance in the data table. In this determination process, it is determined whether or not the information regarding the variable display mode of the currently set data table is information indicating the high-speed variable display.

  In the case of the high-speed fluctuation display, the process proceeds to step S3505, where “3” is set in the coordinate update numerical information Xa stored in the predetermined storage area of the work RAM 73. ), “1” is set in the coordinate updating numerical information Xa in step S3506. The coordinate update numerical information Xa is numerical information indicating the scroll amount per frame, and the coordinate of the symbol is updated using the numerical information.

  Since the scroll amount per frame regulates the fluctuation display speed of the symbol, the processing from step S3504 to step S3506 grasps the fluctuation display mode of the symbol string currently grasped, and displays the fluctuation display. This can be said to be a process for determining the variable display speed of the symbol corresponding to the aspect.

  After execution of the processing in step S3505 or step S3506, in step S3507 to step S3510, the symbol information including the coordinate information of the symbol sprite data is obtained in addition to grasping the symbol sprite data serving as a reference in the symbol row currently grasped. Execute the process to update.

  Specifically, first, in step S3507, processing for determining the Y coordinate of the symbol sequence is executed. The Y coordinate is calculated from Y = Ya + Cy × Yb (Ya, Yb: a predetermined natural number). Here, since the current value of the symbol row identification counter Cy is “0” indicating the upper symbol row Z1, the Y coordinate of the upper symbol row Z1 is set to “Ya”. The Y coordinate is not changed unless the symbol row specifying counter Cy is changed. That is, the center of the symbol sprite data of the symbol symbol Z1 is defined on Ya.

  Thereafter, in step S3508, a process of grasping the reference symbol sprite data and the X coordinate for which the reference symbol sprite data is set is executed. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 61 (c), in the + X direction from the coordinate point (−L, Ya), symbol sprite data (for example, set as a drawing target at a position closest to the coordinate point) In FIG. 61 (c), the main symbol sprite data SPD 4) indicating the number “3” is grasped as reference symbol sprite data, and the X coordinate of the symbol sprite data is grasped.

  Here, “L” is the number of pixels indicating the half size of the symbol sprite data SPD4 and SPD5 in the X direction, as shown in FIG. 61 (a). Thereby, for example, when the main symbol sprite data SPD4 is arranged at (−L, Ya), the main symbol sprite data SPD4 is out of the drawing range PL2.

  After execution of the process of step S3508, the X coordinate is updated in step S3509. Specifically, a calculation process of subtracting coordinate update numerical information Xa from the X coordinate of the reference symbol sprite data grasped in step S3508 is executed, and the calculation result is updated as coordinate data. Thereafter, other parameter information is updated in step S3510.

  By performing the above processing (the processing from step S3507 to step S3510), the processing related to the drawing of the symbol sprite data drawn at the left end of the drawing range PL2 in the upper symbol row Z1 is completed.

  Next, processing for displaying other symbols on the upper symbol row Z1 is executed in the processing of steps S3511 to S3515.

  First, in step S3511, the symbol number corresponding to the standard symbol sprite data is grasped by referring to the reference table. Here, since the reference table is set in the upper symbol row table TD1 in step S3501, the upper symbol row table TD1 is referred to. For example, when the reference symbol sprite data is the main symbol sprite data SPD4 indicating “3”, the symbol number “13” is grasped.

  In subsequent step S3512, a process of adding “1” to the symbol number obtained in step S3511 is executed, and in step S3513, the upper symbol row table TD1 is referred to again to correspond to the updated symbol number. Grasp the design sprite data. As a result, the symbol sprite data SPD5 associated with the symbol sprite data set next to the main symbol sprite data SPD4 indicating “3” in the upper symbol row table TD1, that is, the numerical information of “7” is grasped. Is done.

  Thereafter, in step S3514, the coordinates of the symbol sprite data grasped in step S3513 are updated. Specifically, a process of adding “Xk” to the X coordinate updated in step S3509 is executed, and a process of grasping the Y coordinate updated in the process of step S3507 is executed. In step S3515, other parameter information is updated.

  By executing the above processing (the processing of step S3511 to step S3515), it is on the same Y coordinate and at a position separated in the X direction by a distance corresponding to Xk pixels from the center of the reference symbol sprite data. The sub-design sprite data SPD5 is set as a drawing target.

  Note that the value of Xk is set so that the areas to be displayed do not overlap each other between adjacent symbol sprite data.

  Thereafter, in step S3516, it is determined whether or not the setting of the image data in the drawing range PL2 is completed for the currently set symbol string. Specifically, is the value of the currently set X coordinate (X coordinate updated in step S3514) larger than the value obtained by subtracting “L” from the maximum value of the X coordinate of the drawing range PL2? Determine whether or not.

  If it is determined that the setting of the image data in the drawing range PL2 for the currently set symbol sequence is not complete, the process advances to step S3517. In step S3517, a process of adding “1” to the update count counter Cc is executed, and then the process returns to step S3512. That is, the processing from step 3512 to step S3517 is repeatedly executed until the setting of the image data in the drawing range PL2 is completed for the currently set symbol sequence. At this time, the symbol number is sequentially updated, and the X coordinate is updated by “Xk” pixels. As a result, for example, as shown in FIG. 61 (c), sprite data of symbol numbers “13” to “17” are set at equal intervals on the Y coordinate corresponding to the upper symbol row Z1.

  When the symbol number exceeds the maximum value (“19” in the upper symbol sequence table TD1 and lower symbol sequence table TD3, “21” in the middle symbol sequence table TD2), the minimum value (“1”) ) Is set in the loop numerical information set to be.

  In step S3516, when the setting of the image data in the drawing range PL2 is completed for the currently set symbol sequence (step S3516: YES), it means that the symbol calculation processing related to one symbol sequence is completed. To do. In this case, the process proceeds to step S3518, and it is determined whether or not the arithmetic processing related to the drawing of symbols for all the symbol sequences Z1 to Z3 has been completed. Specifically, it is determined whether or not the symbol sequence identification counter Cy is “2”. Since the symbol sequence identification counter Cy remains initially set to “0” in step S3502, a negative determination is made in step S3518, and the flow proceeds to step S3519.

  In step S3519, a process of adding “1” to the symbol string specifying counter Cy is executed. As a result, the symbol sequence specifying counter Cy becomes “1”, and the display CPU 72 recognizes that the processing has shifted to the calculation processing related to the drawing of the symbol of the middle symbol sequence Z2.

  In the following step S3520, it is determined whether or not the symbol sequence that is grasped as the current calculation target is the middle symbol sequence Z2. Specifically, it is determined whether or not the symbol sequence identification counter Cy is “1”.

  If the symbol string identification counter Cy is “1”, processing for changing the reference table to the middle symbol string table TD2 is executed in step S3521.

  On the other hand, if the symbol string specifying counter Cy is not “1”, it means that the symbol string that is currently grasped as the calculation target is the lower symbol string Z3. In this case, in step S3522, a process of changing the reference table to the lower symbol sequence table TD3 is executed.

  After executing the process of step S3521 or step S3522, the update count counter Cc is initialized to “1” in step S3523, and the process returns to step S3503. That is, the processes of steps S3503 to S3523 are repeatedly executed until the symbol string specifying counter Cy becomes “2”, in other words, until the calculation process related to the drawing of the symbol in the lower symbol string Z3 is completed.

  When the symbol row specifying counter Cy is “1”, the Y coordinate is “Ya + Yb”, and therefore the symbol of the middle symbol row Z2 is set by “Yb” below the upper symbol row Z1. Further, since the reference table is changed to the middle symbol row table TD2, the main symbol sprite data SPD4 is set to be arranged in ascending order, and the main symbol sprite data “9” and the main symbol sprite “1” are set. The main symbol sprite data SPD4 of “4” is set between the data SPD4.

  On the other hand, when the symbol row identification counter Cy is “2”, the Y coordinate is “Ya + 2Yb”, and therefore the symbol of the lower symbol row Z3 is set by “Yb” below the middle symbol row Z2. Further, since the reference table is changed to the lower symbol row table TD3, the main symbol sprite data SPD4 is set to be arranged in ascending order.

  Thereafter, in the process of step S3518 for the third time, since the symbol string specifying counter Cy is “2”, this determination process is affirmed and the present calculation process is terminated.

  When the above calculation processing is performed, in the drawing list output processing in step S408, a drawing list in which the symbol sprite data included in the drawing range PL2 is set in each symbol row Z1 to Z3 is created. Sent to VDP 76. The VDP 76 executes a process of setting symbol sprite data for the frame regions 82a and 82b based on the transmitted drawing list. Thereby, a symbol will be displayed on each symbol row Z1-Z3.

  Here, since the calculation processing related to the drawing of the symbols in each of the symbol rows Z1 to Z3 is the same, compared with the configuration for preparing the calculation processing related to the drawing of the symbols in each of the symbol rows Z1 to Z3, The storage capacity of the program data required for the arithmetic processing related to the drawing of symbols is small. Thereby, it is possible to reduce the program data related to the symbol variation display.

  Particularly, a configuration is provided in which a symbol sequence specifying counter Cy for specifying a symbol sequence to be calculated is provided, and the symbol sequence specifying counter Cy is updated in accordance with the completion of calculation processing related to drawing of symbols in one symbol sequence. It was. Then, based on the update of the symbol sequence identification counter Cy, the reference table is changed to a symbol sequence table corresponding to the symbol sequence identification counter Cy, and the Y coordinate is calculated using the value of the symbol sequence identification counter Cy. did. Thereby, it can respond to the change of the display mode of each symbol row | line | column Z1-Z3, using the same program data.

  In addition, in the case of high-speed fluctuation display, the coordinate update numerical information Xa is set to “3”, while in the case of low-speed fluctuation display, the coordinate update numerical information Xa is set to “1”. That is, since the stroke amount of the symbol moving per frame is relatively large, the variable display speed is relatively high and low. Specifically, since the coordinate updating numerical information Xa in the high-speed fluctuation display is three times that of the low-speed fluctuation display, the high-speed fluctuation display performs fluctuation display at a speed three times that of the low-speed fluctuation display. Thereby, a different variation display mode can be expressed using the same program data. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the storage capacity related to the program data while diversifying display effects.

  In particular, since the process for determining the speed of the variable display (the processes in steps S3504 to S3506) is executed for each symbol row, the variable display mode can be easily changed for each symbol row. Thereby, diversification of display effects can be achieved by changing the variable display mode for each symbol row.

  In addition, for each of the symbol rows Z1 to Z3, one symbol and its coordinates are grasped, and the symbol sprite data is set in a predetermined interval (“Xk”) in the order based on the reference table with the symbol and its coordinates as a reference. ), The symbols are displayed sequentially on the display screen G. As a result, by grasping the reference symbol sprite data and updating the coordinates, other symbols to be drawn are automatically determined, and the coordinates of the other symbols are determined. Therefore, since the process etc. which grasp | ascertain the coordinate of the other symbol in the same symbol row | line | column etc. are unnecessary, processing load can be reduced.

  In this case, by specifying the symbols displayed on one line (for example, the left line L1), the symbols displayed on the other lines (the middle line L2, the right line L3, etc.) are naturally determined. Thus, by determining the combination of symbols displayed on one line, all symbols displayed on the display screen G can be determined. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the processing load when calculating the stop result as compared with the configuration for determining the stop result of each line.

  Note that the reference symbol sprite data may be set to be changeable at a switching timing at which the high-speed fluctuation display is switched to the low-speed fluctuation display as a predetermined specific timing. Specifically, the switching timing and the specific information of the symbol sprite data to be changed are set in the data table, and after executing the processing of step S3508, processing for determining whether or not the switching timing is reached is executed. . When it is determined that it is the switching timing, a process of changing the reference symbol sprite data to the symbol sprite data to be changed is executed. Thus, by changing the specific information of the symbol sprite data to be changed, a desired symbol can be stopped on the display screen G without changing the variable display period.

  Further, in this configuration, the display in which the variation of the symbol in the X direction is performed is not limited to this, but the configuration in which the variation display of the symbol in the Y direction is performed may be performed. In this case, the process related to the X direction and the process related to the Y direction may be reversed.

  Next, the curve fluctuation display calculation process will be described with reference to FIG. The calculation process is executed when information related to the curve fluctuation display calculation process is set in the symbol calculation process in step S617.

  First, in step S3601, it is determined based on the currently set data table whether or not it is the start timing of curve fluctuation display. When it is determined that it is the start timing, the curve variation display start processing in steps S3602 to S3608 is executed.

  Specifically, the middle symbol sequence table TD2 is set as a reference table in step S3602, and a value of “1” is initially set in the update count counter Cc in step S3603.

  In a succeeding step S3604, an initial setting of a reference symbol number is performed. Specifically, the work RAM 73 is provided with a storage area for storing a reference symbol number, and the reference symbol number stored in the storage area is set to “1”. In step S3605, initial setting of reference frame information A (x0) is executed. Specifically, the frame information A (1) is set as the reference frame information A (x0). For convenience of explanation, in the following explanation, the reference frame information A (x0) is also simply referred to as A (x0) and the frame information A (x) is also simply referred to as A (x).

  Thereafter, in steps S3606 to S3608, based on the initially set reference symbol number and reference frame information A (x0), arithmetic processing relating to drawing of the reference symbol sprite data is executed.

  Specifically, symbol sprite data corresponding to the reference symbol number is grasped by referring to the middle symbol string table TD2 in step S3606. Specifically, since the reference symbol number is initially set to “1”, the main symbol sprite data SPD4 indicating “1” is grasped. In step S3607, the coordinate information B (x0) corresponding to A (x0) is grasped by referring to the data for the curve trajectory animation. Specifically, since the reference frame information A (x0) is set to the frame information A (1), the coordinate information B (1) is grasped.

  Thereafter, in step S3608, the other parameter information C (1) corresponding to the frame information A (1) is grasped, and the other parameters are updated.

  When the above processing is performed, in the drawing list output processing in step S408, the symbol sprite data corresponding to the initially set reference symbol number, that is, the main symbol sprite data SPD4 of “1” is set as the drawing target. Coordinate information B (1) is associated with the main symbol sprite data SPD4. The coordinate information B (1) is information indicating the initial position.

  On the other hand, if it is not the start timing (step S3601: NO), it means that the curve variation is being displayed. In this case, the process advances to step S3609 to execute update processing.

  Specifically, in step S3609, the symbol sprite data corresponding to the reference symbol number is grasped, and in the subsequent step S3610, the reference frame information A (x0) is updated. Specifically, a process of adding “1” to x0 is executed. For example, when the reference frame information A (x0) is the frame information A (1), it is updated to the frame information A (2).

  Thereafter, in step S3611, based on the updated reference frame information A (x0), the coordinate information B (x0) of the update destination is grasped by referring to the middle symbol string table TD2. Then, the other parameter information is updated with reference to the other parameter information C (x0).

  With these processes (the processes in steps S3609 to S3612), the update of the symbol sprite data corresponding to the reference symbol number is completed.

  Thereafter, in step S3613, it is determined based on the currently set data table whether or not it is the end timing of the curve variation display. If it is not the end timing, the process advances to step S3614 to determine whether or not the reference frame information A (x0) is the final frame information A (m) set in the curve trajectory animation data.

  Here, in the curve trajectory effect using the character image already described, the number of frames (m frames) set in the curve trajectory animation data D1 matches the number of frames of the curve trajectory effect. For this reason, when the frame information A (x) becomes the final frame information A (m), the curve trajectory effect is set to end. On the other hand, the curve variation display period, which is a period during which curve variation display is performed, is set longer than the number of frames (m frames) set in the curve trajectory animation data. For this reason, the reference frame information A (x0) can be the final frame information A (m) at a timing before the end timing of the curve variation display.

  If the reference frame information A (x0) is not the final frame information A (m), the process advances to step S3615 to execute a calculation process for symbols other than the reference symbol.

  The calculation process will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. In this calculation process, a process for setting a symbol other than the reference symbol as a drawing target is executed. Symbol sprite data other than the reference symbol sprite data has a predetermined interval (interval corresponding to k frames) from the reference symbol when a predetermined interval is generated between the coordinates of the current reference symbol and the initial position. It is set to be set.

  Specifically, first, in step S3701, it is determined whether or not an interval corresponding to a predetermined frame is generated between the reference symbol sprite data and the initial position. Specifically, whether or not the frame information A (x0−Cc × k) before (Cc × k) frames exists with respect to the reference frame information A (x0), that is, whether x0−Cc × k> 1. Determine whether or not. For example, in the situation where “k” is “5” and the update count counter Cc is “1”, if the reference frame information A (x0) is A (10), A (5) exists, This process is affirmed. On the other hand, when the reference frame information A (x0) is A (4), since A (−1) does not exist, this process is determined to be negative.

  Here, “k” is numerical information for specifying coordinates that are separated by an interval corresponding to a predetermined frame with respect to the coordinates for which the reference symbol sprite data is set. By determining whether or not A (x0−Cc × k) exists, a predetermined interval (for example, when the update count counter Cc is “1”) between the coordinates of the reference symbol sprite data and the initial position is determined. It is determined whether or not an interval corresponding to k frames has occurred.

  The update counter Cc is a counter for specifying whether or not there are a plurality of symbol sprite data to be drawn in addition to the reference symbol sprite data. Specifically, the coordinates and the initial position of the reference symbol sprite data are specified. Is a counter that defines the number of symbol sprite data set between The update number counter Cc is initially set to “1” in step S3603 of the curve fluctuation display calculation process (FIG. 64).

  If the frame information does not exist, the process of step S3708 is executed, and this calculation process is terminated. That is, until the reference frame information A (x0) is updated k times (the reference frame information A (x0) becomes A (k + 1)) after the curve fluctuation display calculation processing is started, the reference symbol sprite is updated. Only data is set in the drawing list.

  On the other hand, when the frame information is present, it means that there is symbol sprite data to be drawn in addition to the reference symbol sprite data. In this case, the processing related to the setting of the symbol sprite data is executed in the processing of steps S3702 to S3705.

  Specifically, in step S3702, the number obtained by adding the value of the update counter Cc to the reference symbol number is grasped as the symbol number. Since the update number counter Cc is set to “1”, the value obtained by adding “1” to the reference symbol number is grasped as the symbol number.

  Thereafter, in step S3703, the symbol sprite data corresponding to the symbol number is grasped by referring to the middle symbol row table TD2. In this case, since the symbol number is a value obtained by adding “1” to the reference symbol number, it corresponds to the reference symbol number based on the order (periodicity) set in the middle symbol sequence table TD2. The following symbol sprite data is grasped with respect to the symbol sprite data.

  In subsequent step S3704, the coordinate information of the symbol sprite data grasped in step S3703 is the coordinate set in the curve trajectory animation data and separated from the reference symbol sprite data by an interval corresponding to k frames. Set to position. Specifically, by referring to the data for curve trajectory animation, the coordinate information B (x0-k) corresponding to the frame information A (x0-k) before k frames with respect to the standard frame information A (x0) is obtained. To grasp. In step S3705, other parameters are updated.

  Through these processes (the processes in steps S3702 to S3705), the next symbol sprite data is set as a drawing target with respect to the reference symbol sprite data. In the symbol sprite data, coordinate information B (x0−k) before k frames is set with respect to coordinate information B (x0) in which symbol sprite data corresponding to the reference symbol number is set. As a result, the reference symbol sprite data and the next symbol sprite data are arranged at an interval corresponding to k frames.

  Thereafter, in step S3706, it is determined whether or not the update number counter Cc is “2”. If the update count counter Cc is not “2”, that is, if the update count counter Cc is “1”, the update count counter Cc is incremented by “1” in step S3707, and the process returns to step S3701.

  In this case, in step S3701, it is determined whether or not two symbol sprite data other than the reference symbol sprite data are set. Specifically, whether or not there is an interval corresponding to 2k frames between the coordinates of the reference symbol sprite data and the initial position, that is, the frame information A 2k frames before the reference frame information A (x0). It is determined whether or not (x0-2k) exists.

  If the determination processing is negative, it means that only one symbol sprite data is drawn between the reference symbol sprite data and the initial position. In this case, the process of step S3708 is executed, and this calculation process is terminated. In the drawing list in which such processing is executed, the reference symbol sprite data and the next symbol sprite data are set at intervals corresponding to k frames.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that there is frame information A (x0-2k) 2k frames before the reference frame information A (x0), the setting of the second symbol sprite data is performed in the processing of steps S3703 to S3705. The process which concerns on is performed. Specifically, the second symbol sprite data is grasped with respect to the reference symbol sprite data in the processes of steps S3702 and S3703.

  In step S3704, the coordinate information B (x0-2k) 2k frames before the coordinate information B (x0) of the reference symbol sprite data is grasped. As a result, coordinates that are separated from the reference symbol sprite data by an interval corresponding to 2k frames are set.

  Thereafter, after affirmative determination is made in step S3706, in step S3708, the update number counter Cc is initially set to “1”, and this calculation process is ended.

  When the above processing is performed, the drawing list includes the symbol sprite data corresponding to the reference symbol number, the next symbol sprite data, and the next symbol sprite data at intervals corresponding to k frames. Is set.

  That is, (1) when there is no interval corresponding to k frames between the coordinates of the reference symbol sprite data and the initial position, only the reference symbol sprite data is set in the drawing list. Also, (2) if there is an interval corresponding to k frames between the coordinates of the reference symbol sprite data and the initial position, the reference symbol sprite data and the next symbol sprite data are divided into k frames. It is set to be displayed at a corresponding interval. Further, (3) in the case where an interval corresponding to 2k frames is generated between the coordinates of the reference symbol sprite data and the initial position, in addition to the symbol sprite