JP6092503B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko machine or a slot machine that allows a player to play a predetermined game.

  As a gaming machine, a game medium such as a game ball is launched into a game area by a launching device, and multiple types of identification information are variably displayed when the game medium wins in a start prize area such as a prize opening provided in the game area. There are pachinko machines in which a predetermined number of bets are set and a slot machine in which a plurality of types of identification information are variably displayed when a start operation is performed. In a gaming machine configured to be able to execute variable display of identification information in this way, when the display result of variable display of identification information becomes a predetermined display result in the variable display unit, a predetermined game value (for example, jackpot) Some are configured to give the player a transition to a state, etc.).

  As this type of gaming machine, for example, as shown in Patent Document 1, there is known a slot machine including a game control means for controlling the progress of a game and an effect control means for effect control as control means. ing. In Patent Document 1, the RAM of the game control means and the RAM of the effect control means are each backed up, and the data on the game control means side is stored in the backup RAM when the power supply is stopped. Is stored in the backup RAM.

JP 2008-104800 A (paragraphs 0071, 0084 to 0088)

In the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, regardless of whether the data used for any function, and back up the data at once. However, one also Batch back up the data, it is necessary to determine whether backup after the backup data is successful for each of the functions. Therefore, despite the fact that data is backed up in a batch, it is necessary to make a judgment for each function, so the backup process cannot be completed for each function, and the program must be developed separately for each function. Therefore, the program installed in the gaming machine becomes complicated, the program development becomes complicated, and the program development man-hour increases.

  Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can facilitate the creation of a program to be installed in a gaming machine and a backup process when a power failure occurs and can reduce the number of program development steps.

(Unit 1) the gaming machine according to the present invention is a player can perform a predetermined game gaming machine, a program storage means for storing a first program module and a second program module, wherein when performing the first control in the progression of the control of the gaming machine, and read out the first program module from said program storage means, and executes the first control in accordance with the first program module , when performing the second control in the progression of the control of the gaming machine, and read out the second program module from said program storage means, performing the second control according to the second program module Control means (Sd2, Sd3, Sd5, Sd7 in FIG. 10 and Sp5, Sp6, Sp7 in FIG. 24) And backup storage means (Sm5, Sm10, Sm15, and Sm20 in FIG. 13 and St5, St10, and St15 in FIG. 25) that can retain data for a predetermined period even when power supply is stopped, and control means The first backup processing for storing the first backup data based on the data used in the first program module in the backup storage means, and the second backup based on the data used in the second program module Including backup processing means (a portion of Sm3, Sm8, Sm13, and Sm18 in FIG. 13 and a portion of St3, St8, and St13 in FIG. 25) that separately performs the second backup processing for storing data in the backup storage means. It is characterized by.
According to such a configuration, it becomes possible to complete the backup process for each function of the gaming machine, and it becomes possible to develop a program related to the backup process separately for each function. At the same time, the program can be simplified and the development man-hour of the program can be reduced. In addition, the backup process can be simplified.
Note that the gaming machine in the means 1 is a gaming machine in which a player can play a predetermined game, and controls the gaming machine according to a plurality of program modules having different functions (Sd2, in FIG. 10). Sd3, Sd5, Sd7 and Sp5, Sp6, Sp7 in FIG. 24) and backup storage means (Sm5, Sm10, Sm15, Sm20 in FIG. 13) that can retain data for a predetermined period even when power supply is stopped. And the control means store the backup data in the backup storage means for each program module based on the data used in the program module when the power supply is stopped. Backup processing means (S in FIG. 13) 3, Sm8, Sm13, Sm18 and St3, St8, St13 in FIG. 25), and the backup processing means sets the start address so that it is stored in a different storage area for each program module. The backup data is stored in the backup storage means from the storage area corresponding to the start address (Sm3, Sm8, Sm13, Sm18 in FIG. 13 is a part for storing backup data at the start address shown in FIG. 14, or St3, St8 in FIG. , St13 is a part that stores backup data at the start address shown in FIG. 26).
According to such a configuration, it becomes possible to complete the backup process for each function of the gaming machine, and it becomes possible to develop a program related to the backup process separately for each function. At the same time, the program can be simplified and the development man-hour of the program can be reduced. In addition, the backup process can be simplified.
In the means 1, the “control means” may be realized as a single control means, or may be realized as a plurality of control means. When configured to provide a plurality of control means, the start address may be designated so that the start address of the data creation area of the backup data differs for each module in each control means, or part of the control The start address may be specified so that the start address of the data creation area of the backup data is different for each module only by means.

(Means 2) In the means 1, the backup processing means creates check data for determining whether or not the backup data is normal for each program module using the data used in the program module. Good (the portions Sm4, Sm9, Sm14, and Sm19 in FIG. 13 and the portions St4, St9, and St14 in FIG. 25).
According to such a configuration, the program development man-hours can be reduced even if the backup process is performed by a common method regardless of the model by using a program structure constituted by a plurality of program modules.

(Means 3) In the means 1 or 2, the judgment means for judging whether or not the backup data based on the data used in the program module is normal for each program module, and all the backup data are judged to be normal In other words, it may be configured to include return means for performing a return process based on the backup data (the portions Sa8, Sa12, Sa17, Sa21 in FIGS. 7 to 9 and Sn9 in FIGS. 21 to 22). , Sn13, Sn17).
According to such a configuration, even if the start address is specified so that the start address of the data creation area of the backup data differs for each program module, the return process can be performed reliably.

(Means 4) In any one of the means 1 to 3, the backup processing means performs a common data conversion process to perform backup data regardless of which program module is used as the backup data. May be stored in the backup storage means (the portion of Sm2, Sm7, Sm12, Sm17 in FIG. 13 or the portion of data conversion shown in FIG. 27 in St2, St7, St12 in FIG. 25).
According to such a configuration, the number of program development steps can be reduced.

(Means 5) In any one of the means 1 to 4, the program module includes a game control program module (AT control module) for performing processing relating to game control (AT), and the backup processing means includes: Backup processing of backup data based on data used in the program module for game control may be performed in preference to program modules (image control modules) other than the program module for game control (FIG. 25). The part of St6 to St10 in FIG. 5 is prioritized over the process of St11 to St15 and the part of the modified example regarding the order of the backup processing).
According to such a configuration, it is possible to reliably back up highly important program modules related to the player's profit.
Note that in the means 5, priority means that backup processing should be performed with priority over at least one of the program modules.

It is a front view of the slot machine to which the present invention is applied. It is an internal structure figure of a slot machine. It is a figure which shows the symbol arrangement | sequence of a reel. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of a slot machine. It is explanatory drawing of a game control program. It is explanatory drawing of a production control program. It is a flowchart which shows the control content of the starting process (main) which a main control part performs at the time of starting. It is a flowchart which shows the control content of the starting process (main) which a main control part performs at the time of starting. It is a flowchart which shows the control content of the starting process (main) which a main control part performs at the time of starting. It is a flowchart which shows the control content of the game control process which a main control part performs. It is a flowchart which shows the control content of the timer interruption process (main) which a main control part performs for every fixed interval. It is a flowchart which shows the control content of the timer interruption process (main) which a main control part performs for every fixed interval. It is a flowchart which shows the control content of the power interruption process (main) performed according to having detected the power interruption in the timer interruption process (main). It is explanatory drawing which shows the storage state of the data when storing in the backup RAM when storing the backup data for every program module in a game control program. It is a figure for demonstrating the kind of symbol combination, symbol combination, and the payout number of medals at the time of winning a prize. It is a figure for demonstrating the technical matter relevant to the kind of replay, a symbol combination, and a small part. It is a figure for demonstrating the symbol combination of a transfer turn. It is a figure for demonstrating a game state and transition of RT. It is a figure for demonstrating the navigation object combination in AT. It is a figure for demonstrating the reel control at the time of several re-game player winning. It is a figure for demonstrating the reel control at the time of several small part winning. It is a flowchart which shows the control content of the starting process (sub) which a sub control part performs at the time of starting. It is a flowchart which shows the control content of the starting process (sub) which a sub control part performs at the time of starting. It is a flowchart which shows the control content of the timer interruption process (sub) which a sub control part performs for every fixed interval. It is a flowchart which shows the control content of the timer interruption process (sub) which a sub control part performs for every fixed interval. It is explanatory drawing which shows the storage state of the data when storing in the backup RAM when storing the backup data for every program module in an effect control program. It is explanatory drawing which shows the storage state when backup data is stored in backup RAM, when (A) bus width of work RAM and back wrap RAM corresponds, and (B) bus width differs. It is explanatory drawing which shows the difference with the case where (A) data conversion is not performed and the case where (B) data conversion is performed when the bus widths of work RAM and backlap RAM differ. It is explanatory drawing which shows the storage state of the data in backup RAM when data conversion is performed when the bus width of work RAM and backlap RAM differs. It is the front view which looked at the pachinko game machine from the front. It is a flowchart which shows the control content of the main process of a pachinko gaming machine. It is a flowchart which shows the control content of the timer interruption process of a pachinko machine. It is a flowchart which shows the control content of the production control main process of a pachinko gaming machine.

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described below.

  An embodiment of a slot machine to which the present invention is applied will be described with reference to the drawings. The slot machine 1 of the present embodiment is rotatable to a housing 1a having an open front surface and a side end of the housing 1a. The front door 1b is pivotally supported by the front door 1b.

  As shown in FIG. 2, inside the casing 1a of the slot machine 1 according to the present embodiment, reels 2L, 2C, and 2R (hereinafter, left reel, middle reel, right As shown in FIG. 1, three consecutive symbols among the symbols arranged on the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R are provided from a see-through window 3 provided on the front door 1b. Arranged to be visible.

  As shown in FIG. 3, on the outer periphery of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R, “black 7”, “net 7 (shaded 7 in the figure)”, “white 7”, “BAR”, “replay”, A plurality of types of mutually distinguishable symbols such as “plum”, “watermelon”, “cherry”, “bell”, and “orange” are drawn in a predetermined order. The symbols drawn on the outer peripheries of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R are displayed in upper, middle, and lower three stages in the see-through window 3 provided in the approximate center of the reel panel 1c of the front door 1b.

  The reels 2L, 2C, and 2R are provided in correspondence with each other and rotated by reel motors 32L, 32C, and 32R (see FIG. 4), so that the symbols of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R are continuously formed in the see-through window 3. In addition to being displayed while changing, by stopping the rotation of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R, three consecutive symbols are derived and displayed on the fluoroscopic window 3 as display results.

  Inside the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R are reel sensors 33L, 33C, and 33R that detect a reference position for each of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R, and a reel LED 55 that irradiates the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R from the back side. , Is provided. The reel LED 55 includes 12 LEDs corresponding to three consecutive symbols on the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R, and each symbol can be irradiated independently.

  At the position corresponding to each reel 2L, 2C, 2R on the front door 1b, a horizontally long rectangular see-through window 3 that allows the reels 2L, 2C, 2R to be seen through from the front side is provided. The reels 2L, 2C, 2R can be visually recognized from the player side.

  The front door 1b uses a medal insertion unit 4 into which medals can be inserted, a medal payout exit 9 from which medals are paid out, and credits (the number of medals stored as a player's own game value). MAXBET switch 6 that is operated when setting the maximum bet number (3 in any game state in this embodiment) out of a prescribed number of bets determined according to the game state, stored as credits Settlement switch 10 that is operated when the medal used for setting the number of medals and the bet is set (to return the medals used for setting the credit and the number of bets), start that is operated when starting the game Switch 7, stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R operated when stopping the rotation of each of reels 2L, 2C, 2R, production switch 5 for use in production There are provided operable by the player.

  In the present embodiment, among the three reels 2L, 2C, and 2R that have started to rotate, the reel that stops first is referred to as a first stop reel, and the stop is referred to as a first stop. Similarly, the reel that stops second is called the second stop reel, the stop is called second stop, the reel that stops third is called the third stop reel, and the stop is the third stop. Alternatively, it is called final stop.

  The front door 1b also displays a credit indicator 11 that displays the number of medals stored as credits, the number of medals paid out due to the occurrence of a prize, an error code indicating the contents when an error occurs, and the like. Game assist indicator 12, 1BETLED14 that notifies that the bet number is set by 1 by lighting, 2BETLED15 that notifies that the bet number is set by 2 and 2 that the bet number is set by 3 3BET LED 16 to notify, insertion request LED 17 to notify that a medal can be inserted by lighting, start effective LED 18 to notify that the game start operation by the operation of the start switch 7 is effective, wait (the previous game start) Waiting for the start of reel rotation because a certain period has not elapsed since Weight in LED19 for notifying by lighting a a is that during the game display section 13 in the replay LED20 is provided for informing is provided by lighting the effect that during replay game, which will be described later.

  Inside the MAXBET switch 6, there is provided a BET switch valid LED 21 (see FIG. 4) for notifying that the setting operation of the bet amount by the operation of the MAXBET switch 6 is valid, and stop switches 8L, 8C, The left, middle, and right stop valid LEDs 22L, 22C, and 22R (see FIG. 4) are provided inside the 8R to notify that the reel stop operation by the corresponding stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R is valid by lighting. It has been.

  Further, below the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R on the front door 1b, a lower panel 1d on which a title of the slot machine 1 and a payout table are printed is provided.

  Inside the front door 1b, there is a reset switch 23 for detecting a reset operation for releasing an error state described later and a stop state described later by a predetermined key operation, while changing a set value and confirming a set value described later. The set value display 24 that displays the set value at that time, and the validity / invalidity of the stop function for controlling the stop state at the end of the BB, which will be described later (a state in which the progress of the game is restricted until a reset operation is performed) A check switch 36a for selecting the automatic settlement function that controls automatic settlement at the end of BB, which will be described later (processing to settle (return) medals stored as credits regardless of the player's operation). An automatic settlement switch 36b for selecting invalidity, and a flow path for medals inserted from the medal insertion unit 4 are provided in a hopper tank 34a (described later with reference to FIG. 2) provided inside the housing 1a. And a medal having a insertion medal sensor 31 for detecting a medal that has been inserted from the medal insertion unit 4 and flowed down to the hopper tank 34a side. A selector (not shown) and a door open detection switch 25 (see FIG. 4) for detecting the open state of the front door 1b are provided.

  As shown in FIG. 2, a reel sensor 33L that can detect the reel reference positions of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R, the reel motors 32L, 32C, and 32R, and the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R, as shown in FIG. , 33C, 33R (see FIG. 4), an external output board 1000 for outputting an external output signal, a hopper tank 34a for storing medals inserted from the medal insertion section 4, and a hopper tank 34a. A hopper unit 34 including a hopper motor 34b for paying out medals from the medal payout opening 9, a payout sensor 34c for detecting medals paid out by driving the hopper motor 34b, and a power supply box 100 are provided.

  On the side of the hopper unit 34, an overflow tank 35 is provided for storing medals overflowing from the hopper tank 34a. Inside the overflow tank 35, a full sensor 35 a made up of a pair of electrically conductive members spaced apart from each other and provided at a height capable of detecting a predetermined amount of stored medals is provided. It is possible to detect that the medal storage amount stored in the inside when it is conductive by contacting through the medal stored in the inside exceeds a predetermined amount, that is, that the overflow tank is full. It has become.

  The front side of the power supply box 100 functions as a setting key switch 37 for switching to a setting change state or a setting confirmation state, and functions as a reset switch for canceling an error state or a stop state in a normal state. There are provided a reset / setting switch 38 that functions as a setting switch for changing a setting value of a winning probability (outtake rate) of internal lottery to be described later, and a power switch 39 that is operated when the power is turned on / off. .

  When a game is played in the slot machine 1 of the present embodiment, first, a medal is inserted from the medal insertion unit 4 or a bet number is set using a credit. To use the credit, the MAXBET switch 6 may be operated. When a predetermined number of bets determined according to the gaming state are set, the winning line LN (see FIG. 1) becomes valid, and the operation of the start switch 7 is valid, that is, the state where the game can be started. Become. In the present embodiment, the winning line LN becomes valid when three cards are determined as the specified number of bets regardless of the gaming state and the specified number of bets are set. In addition, when a medal is inserted exceeding the maximum number out of the prescribed number corresponding to the gaming state, the amount is added to the credit.

  The winning line is a line that is set to determine whether a combination of symbols displayed on the perspective windows 3 of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R is a winning symbol combination. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, only the winning line LN set across the symbols arranged in the horizontal direction in the middle stage of the reel 2L, the middle stage of the reel 2C, the middle stage of the reel 2R, that is, the middle stage, is the winning line. It is defined as. In the present embodiment, only one winning line is applied, but a plurality of winning lines may be applied.

  In the present embodiment, invalid lines LM1 to LM1-4 are set separately from the winning line LN in order to make it easier to recognize that the winning line LN has a combination of symbols constituting the winning line. The invalid lines LM1 to LM4 are not determined based on the combination of symbols aligned with the invalid lines LM1 to LM4. When the combination of symbols constituting a specific prize is arranged on the winning line LN, the invalid line LM1 to LM4. When a combination of symbols (for example, bell-bell-bell) is awarded when the winning line LN is aligned with any of the LM1 to LM4, the symbols constituting the particular winning line LN It is easy to recognize that the combination is complete. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, the invalid lines LM1 and 2L of the reel 2L, the upper stage of the reel 2C, the upper stage of the reel 2R, that is, the invalid line LM1 and the reel 2L set across the symbols arranged in the horizontal direction on the upper stage. The lower stage, the lower stage of the reel 2C, the lower stage of the reel 2R, that is, the invalid line LM2 set across the symbols arranged horizontally in the lower stage, the upper stage of the reel 2L, the middle stage of the reel 2C, the lower stage of the reel 2R, that is, lower right There are four types of invalid lines LM3 set across straddling symbols: invalid line LM3, lower stage of reel 2L, middle stage of reel 2C, upper stage of reel 2R, that is, invalid line LM4 set across straddling symbols. It is defined as LM.

  When the start switch 7 is operated in a state where the game can be started, the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R rotate, and the symbols of the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R continuously vary. When any one of the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R is operated in this state, the rotation of the corresponding reels 2L, 2C, 2R is stopped, and the display result is derived and displayed on the fluoroscopic window 3.

  Then, when all the reels 2L, 2C and 2R are stopped, one game is finished, and a combination of symbols (hereinafter also referred to as a combination) predetermined on the winning line LN is a display result of each reel 2L, 2C and 2R. In the case of a stop, a winning occurs, and a predetermined number of medals are awarded to the player and added to the credit. Further, when the credit reaches the upper limit number (50 in the present embodiment), medals are paid out directly from the medal payout opening 9 (see FIG. 1). In addition, when the combination of symbols accompanying the transition of the gaming state is stopped as a display result of each reel 2L, 2C, 2R on the winning line LN, the gaming state is shifted according to the combination of symbols.

  Further, in the slot machine 1 according to the present embodiment, after the game is started and the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R are rotated to start changing the symbols, any of the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R is When operated, the reels corresponding to the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R stop rotating and the symbols are stopped and displayed. The maximum stop delay time from the operation of the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R to the stop of the rotation of the corresponding reels 2L, 2C, 2R is 190 ms (milliseconds).

  The reels 2L, 2C and 2R rotate 80 times per minute, and 80 × 21 (the number of symbols per reel) = 1680 frames, so the maximum of 4 symbols is drawn in 190 ms. Will be able to. In other words, the symbols that can be selected as the stop symbols are the symbols that are displayed when the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R are operated, and the symbols that are four frames ahead of them, for a total of five symbols.

  For this reason, for example, when any one of the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R is operated and the symbol displayed on the lower stage of the reel corresponding to the stop switch is used as a reference, the symbol from the symbol to four frames ahead is used. Since the symbols can be displayed in the lower row, in each of the reels 2L, 2C, 2R, when any one of the stop switches 8L, 8R is operated, the symbol displayed in the middle row of the reel corresponding to the stop switch. Can be displayed on the winning line LN.

  FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a configuration of the slot machine 1. As shown in FIG. 4, the slot machine 1 is provided with a game control board 40, an effect control board 90, and a power supply board 101. The game state is controlled by the game control board 40, and the game state is controlled by the effect control board 90. The production according to the control is controlled, and the power supply board 101 generates the drive power for the electrical components constituting the slot machine 1 and supplies them to each part.

  The power supply board 101 is supplied with AC100V power from the outside, and from this AC100V power supply, a DC voltage necessary for driving electrical components constituting the slot machine 1 is generated, and the game control board 40 and the game control board 40 are generated. It is supplied to the production control board 90 connected through the. In addition, a command transmission line from the main control unit 41 to the sub control unit 91, which will be described later, and a power supply line for supplying power from the game control board 40 to the effect control board 90 are connected via a single cable and connector. Are connected to each other, and all the connectors that connect these cables and the respective boards are connected to each other so that the respective parts on the side of the effect control board 90 can operate and receive commands from the main control part 41. Become. For this reason, unless the command transmission line for transmitting a command from the main control unit 41 is connected to the effect control board 90, power is not supplied to the effect control board 90, and only the effect control board 90 side operates. There is no end to it.

  Further, the above-described hopper motor 34b, payout sensor 34c, full sensor 35a, setting key switch 37, reset / setting switch 38, and power switch 39 are connected to the power supply board 101.

  On the game control board 40, the above-described MAXBET switch 6, start switch 7, stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R, settlement switch 10, reset switch 23, stop switch 36a, automatic settlement switch 36b, insertion medal sensor 31, door open The detection switch 25 and reel sensors 33L, 33C, and 33R are connected, and the above-described payout sensor 34c, full sensor 35a, setting key switch 37, and reset / setting switch 38 are connected via the power supply board 101. Detection signals from these connected switches are input.

  Further, the game control board 40 includes the credit display 11, the game auxiliary display 12, the payout display 13, 1 to 3 BET LEDs 14 to 16, the insertion request LED 17, the start valid LED 18, the waiting LED 19, the replaying LED 20, and the BET. The switch effective LED 21, left, middle, and right stop effective LEDs 22L, 22C, and 22R, the set value display 24, the flow path switching solenoid 30, and the reel motors 32L, 32C, and 32R are connected to each other, and are described above via the power supply board 101. The hopper motor 34b is connected, and these electric components are driven based on control of a main control unit 41 (described later) mounted on the game control board 40.

  The game control board 40 includes a main control unit 41, a random number generation circuit 42, a sampling circuit 43, a switch detection circuit 44, a motor drive circuit 45, a solenoid drive circuit 46, an LED drive circuit 47, a power interruption detection circuit 48, and a reset circuit 49. Is installed.

  The main control unit 41 is configured by a one-chip microcomputer and includes a main CPU 41a, a ROM 41b, a RAM 41c, and an I / O port 41d. The main control unit 41 executes a control program stored in the ROM 41b to perform processing related to the progress of the game, and directly or indirectly controls each part of the control circuit mounted on the game control board 40. In this embodiment, the main control unit 41 can only perform 16-bit or 32-bit bus access to an external device such as an external memory.

  The random number generation circuit 42 is configured by a counter that counts up and updates the value every time a predetermined number of pulses are generated, and the sampling circuit 43 acquires the numerical value counted by the random number generation circuit 42. The random number generation circuit 42 defines a range of numerical values to be counted for each type of random number, and in the present embodiment, 0 to 65535 is defined as the range. The main CPU 41a sends an instruction to the sampling circuit 43 according to the processing to acquire the numerical value indicated by the random number generation circuit 42 as a random value (hereinafter, this function is referred to as a hardware random number function). Random numbers for internal lottery, which will be described later, are processed by software instead of using the random numbers extracted by the hardware random number function as they are. The main CPU 41a also has a function of updating the value of a specific register by the above-described timer interrupt process (main) and acquiring the updated numerical value as a random number (this function is hereinafter referred to as a software random number function). .

  The switch detection circuit 44 takes in detection signals input from switches connected directly to the game control board 40 or via the power supply board 101 and transmits them to the main control unit 41. The motor drive circuit 45 transmits the motor drive signal output from the main control unit 41 to the reel motors 32L, 32C, and 32R. The solenoid drive circuit 46 transmits the solenoid drive signal output from the main control unit 41 to the flow path switching solenoid 30. The LED drive circuit transmits the LED drive signal output from the main control unit 41 to various displays and LEDs connected to the game control board 40. The power interruption detection circuit 48 monitors the power supply voltage supplied to the slot machine 1 and outputs a voltage drop signal indicating that to the main control unit 41 when a voltage drop is detected. The reset circuit 49 provides a system reset signal to the main control unit 41 in a state where the power is unstable, such as when the power is turned on or when the power is turned off.

  The CPU 41a of the main control unit 41 executes processing for controlling the progress of the game in the slot machine 1 by executing the program read from the ROM.

  As described above, in the main control unit 41, the CPU 41a executes control according to the program stored in the ROM 41b, so that the main control unit 41 (or CPU 41a) executes (or performs processing) hereinafter. Specifically, the CPU 41a executes control according to a program. The same applies to microcomputers mounted on boards other than the game control board 40.

  The RAM 41c included in the main control unit 41 provides a work area for game control and is used as a work RAM. In this embodiment, as will be described later, an SRAM (not shown in FIG. 4) is connected to the main controller 41 as an external memory, and at least a part of this external memory is a backup power source. The backup RAM is backed up by That is, even if the power supply to the slot machine is stopped, at least a part of the contents of the external memory is stored for a predetermined period. In the present embodiment, all areas of the external memory are used as a backup RAM, and even if power supply to the slot machine is stopped, all contents of the external memory are stored for a predetermined period. In this embodiment, the external memory serving as the backup RAM includes, for example, data used in control related to internal lottery, which will be described later, data used in control related to payout of medals, and reel rotation when power is cut off. In addition, data used for control related to stop, data used for control related to command input / output, and the like are stored.

  The ROM 41a included in the main control unit 41 stores various selection data and table data used for controlling the progress of the game. For example, the ROM 41b stores data constituting a plurality of determination tables, determination tables, setting tables and the like prepared for the CPU 41a to perform various determinations, determinations, and settings. The ROM 41b stores table data constituting a plurality of command tables used for the CPU 41a to transmit control signals serving as various control commands from the game control board 40.

  The RAM 41c included in the main control unit 41 is provided with a game control data holding area as an area for holding various data used for controlling the progress of the game in the slot machine 1 and the like. For example, a DRAM is used as the RAM 41c, and a refresh operation is required to maintain the stored data contents. The CPU 41a has a built-in refresh register for performing this refresh operation. For example, the refresh register consists of 8 bits, and the lower 7 bits are automatically incremented every time the CPU 41a fetches an instruction from the ROM 41b. Accordingly, the stored value in the refresh register is updated every execution time of one instruction in the CPU 41a.

  The main control unit 41 transmits various commands to the sub control unit 91. A command transmitted from the main control unit 41 to the sub control unit 91 is sent in only one direction, and no command is sent from the sub control unit 91 toward the main control unit 41.

  The main control unit 41 receives the detection state of various switches connected to the game control board 40 from the input port. Then, the main control unit 41 executes basic processing that shifts in stages according to the detection states of various switches input from these input ports.

  Further, the main control unit 41 can execute an interrupt process by interrupting the basic process when an interrupt occurs. In the present embodiment, a timer interrupt process (main) described later is executed at regular time intervals (about 0.56 ms in the present embodiment). Note that the execution interval of the timer interrupt process (main) is set to a time longer than the sum of the time required to complete the repetition of the process depending on the control state in the basic process and the execution time of the timer interrupt process (main) Therefore, the process that is repeated according to the control state between the current and next timer interrupt processes (main) is completed at least once.

  The main control unit 41 is set to prohibit other interrupts during the execution of the interrupt process, and when a plurality of interrupts occur at the same time, the main control unit 41 prioritizes according to a predetermined order. An interrupt to be executed is set. If another interrupt factor occurs during the execution of the interrupt process and the interrupt factor continues even after the interrupt process ends, a new interrupt occurs at that point. It will be.

  An effect switch 56 is connected to the effect control board 90, and a detection signal of the effect switch 56 is input.

  The effect control board 90 is connected to effect devices such as a liquid crystal display 51 (see FIG. 1), an effect LED 52, speakers 53 and 54, and the reel LED 55 described above, which are arranged on the front door 1b of the slot machine 1. These effect devices are driven based on control by a later-described sub-control unit 91 mounted on the effect control board 90.

  In the present embodiment, the sub-control unit 91 mounted on the effect control board 90 performs output control of effect devices such as the liquid crystal display 51, effect effect LEDs 52, speakers 53 and 54, and reel LEDs 55. However, an output control unit that directly controls the output of the effect device is mounted on the effect control board 90 or another board separately from the sub control part 91, and the sub control part 91 is based on a command from the main control part 41. The output pattern of the effect device may be determined, and the output control unit may control the output of the effect device based on the output pattern determined by the sub control unit 91. In such a configuration, the sub control unit 91 and the output The output control of the effect device is performed by both of the control units.

  Moreover, in this Embodiment, although the liquid crystal display 51, the effect effect LED52, the speakers 53 and 54, and the reel LED55 are illustrated as an effect device, an effect device is not restricted to these, For example, it drives mechanically. A display device or a mechanically driven item may be applied as the rendering device.

  Similar to the main control unit 41, the effect control board 90 includes a sub CPU 91a, ROM 91b, RAM 91c, and a microcomputer provided with an I / O port 91d. The sub control unit 91 controls the effect, and the effect control board 90. A display control circuit 92 that performs display control of the liquid crystal display 51 connected to the LED, an LED driving circuit 93 that performs drive control of the effect LED 52 and the reel LED 55, an audio output circuit 94 that controls audio output from the speakers 53 and 54, When the power is turned on or when an initialization command from the sub CPU 91a is not input for a certain period of time, a reset circuit 95 that gives a reset signal to the sub CPU 91a and a detection signal input from the effect switch 56 connected to the effect control board 90 are detected. The switch detection circuit 96 outputs time information including date information and time information. The power supply voltage supplied to the timepiece device 97 and the slot machine 1 is monitored, and when a voltage drop is detected, a power drop detection circuit 98 that outputs a voltage drop signal to that effect to the sub CPU 91a, other circuits, etc. , And the sub CPU 91a receives various commands transmitted from the game control board 40 and performs various controls for performing effects, and directly controls each part of the control circuit mounted on the effect control board 90. To control automatically or indirectly. In this embodiment, the sub-control unit 91 can only perform 16-bit or 32-bit bus access to an external device such as an external memory.

  The reset circuit 95 has a lower voltage for releasing the reset signal than the reset circuit 49 that gives the system reset signal to the main control unit 41 in the game control board 40. When the power is turned on, the sub control unit 91 It starts at an earlier stage than the unit 41. On the other hand, the power interruption detection circuit 98 has a voltage that outputs a voltage drop signal lower than the power interruption detection circuit 48 that outputs a voltage drop signal to the main control unit 41 in the game control board 40. The sub control unit 91 detects a power failure at a later stage than the main control unit 41, and performs a power interruption process (sub) described later.

  Similar to the main control unit 41, the sub control unit 91 has an interrupt function, generates an interrupt when receiving a command from the main control unit 41, and acquires a command transmitted from the main control unit 41. Execute command reception interrupt processing to be stored in the buffer. Further, the sub control unit 91 executes an interrupt process (sub), which will be described later, by generating an interrupt every time the number of input system clocks reaches a certain number, that is, every certain interval.

  Also, unlike the main control unit 41, the sub control unit 91 interrupts the process even when the timer interrupt process (sub) is being executed when an interrupt is generated based on the reception of the command. The command reception interrupt process is executed at the same time, and the command reception interrupt process is executed with the highest priority even if interrupts that trigger the timer interrupt process (sub) occur at the same time.

  The RAM 91c included in the sub control unit 91 provides a work area for various effects control such as liquid crystal display, lamp display, and sound output, and is used as a work RAM. In this embodiment, as will be described later, an SRAM (not shown in FIG. 4) is also connected to the sub-control unit 91 as an external memory, and at least a part of this external memory is a backup power source. The backup RAM is backed up by That is, even if the power supply to the slot machine is stopped, at least a part of the contents of the external memory is stored for a predetermined period. In the present embodiment, all areas of the external memory are used as a backup RAM, and even if power supply to the slot machine is stopped, all contents of the external memory are stored for a predetermined period. In this embodiment, the external memory serving as the backup RAM includes, for example, data used for control related to sound / LEDs, which will be described later, data used for control related to AT, and image display when power is cut off. Data used for control is stored.

  In the slot machine 1 of the present embodiment, the medal payout rate changes according to the set value. Specifically, the medal payout rate is changed by using a winning probability corresponding to a set value in an internal lottery described later. The set value is composed of 6 levels of 1 to 6, with 6 being the highest payout rate and the payout rate being lower as the value is decreased in the order of 5, 4, 3, 2, 1. That is, when 6 is set as the set value, the advantage is highest for the player, and as the value decreases in order of 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, the advantage decreases stepwise.

  In order to change the setting value, it is necessary to turn on the power of the slot machine 1 after the setting key switch 37 is turned on. When the setting key switch 37 is turned on and the power is turned on, the setting value read from the RAM 41c is displayed as a display value on the setting value display 24, and the setting value can be changed by operating the reset / setting switch 38. Transition to the setting change state. When the reset / setting switch 38 is operated in the setting change state, the display value displayed on the setting value display 24 is updated one by one (when further operation is performed from the setting 6, the display returns to the setting 1). . When the start switch 7 is operated, the display value is determined as the set value. When the setting key switch 37 is turned off, the determined display value (setting value) is stored in the RAM 41c of the main control unit 41, and the state shifts to a state in which the game can proceed.

  In order to check the set value, after the game is over, the setting key switch 37 may be turned on in a state where the bet amount is not set. When the setting key switch 37 is turned on in such a situation, the setting value read out from the RAM 41c is displayed on the setting value display 24, thereby shifting to a setting confirmation state in which the setting value can be confirmed. In the setting confirmation state, the game cannot be progressed, and by setting the setting key switch 37 to the off state, the setting confirmation state is ended and the state in which the game can proceed is returned.

  In the slot machine 1 of the present embodiment, the main control unit 41 and the sub control unit 91 execute the timer interrupt process (main) shown in FIG. 11 and the timer interrupt process (sub) shown in FIG. Then, a power failure determination process (Sk2 in FIG. 11 or Sp2 in FIG. 24) is performed to determine whether or not a voltage drop signal from the power failure detection circuit 48 is detected, and the voltage drop signal is detected in the power failure determination process. Are determined, the power interruption process (main) shown in FIG. 13 and the power interruption process (sub) shown in FIG. 25 are executed. In the power interruption process (main) and the power interruption process (sub), as described later, for each program module, a backup flag is set in the external memory (backup RAM) and data used in the program module is calculated. A checksum is generated, and the generated checksum is stored in an external memory (backup RAM). Note that the checksum is stored in each bit of a corresponding area of the RAM 41c or RAM 91c (in this embodiment, all areas in the work RAM in which data used by the program module is stored). It is a value calculated as an exclusive OR of the values. For this reason, if the value obtained by calculating the exclusive OR based on the data stored in all areas in the work RAM in which the data used by the program module is stored is 0, the checksum is 0. If the value obtained by calculating the exclusive OR based on the data stored in all the areas in the work RAM in which the data used in the program module is stored is 1, the checksum is 1.

  Then, the main control unit 41 and the sub-control unit 91 store data used in the program module in the external memory (backup RAM) for each module at the time of activation regardless of whether the system reset or the user reset is performed. Calculate the checksum based on the data of all the stored areas, check the backup flag, check that the calculated checksum matches the checksum value being backed up, and that the backup flag is also set. Based on the data stored in the external memory (backup RAM), the processing state of the main control unit 41 and the sub control unit 91 is restored to the state before the power interruption. If the checksum values do not match, If the backup flag is not set It determines that RAM abnormal, controls the RAM abnormal error condition by setting the RAM abnormality error code in the register, and is adapted to disable the progress of the game. Unlike the normal error state, the RAM abnormal error state is not canceled even if the reset switch 23 or the reset / setting switch 38 is operated, and a new set value is set in the setting change state described above. It will not be released until

  In the present embodiment, all the data stored in the RAM 41c and RAM 91c are stored in the external memory (backup RAM) and retained by the backup power supply even during a power failure, and the main control unit 41 and sub-control unit Reference numeral 91 denotes a configuration for returning to the control state before power interruption based on the stored data in the external memory (backup RAM) when it is determined that the data in the external memory (backup RAM) is normal when the power is turned on. Of the data stored in the RAM 41c and RAM 91c, only the data necessary for returning to the control state in the event of a power failure is backed up to an external memory (backup RAM), and before power interruption based on the data backed up when the power is turned on. It is good also as a structure which returns to this control state.

  In addition, when returning to the control state before the power interruption when the power is turned on, it is not necessary to return all the control states to the control state before the power interruption, and the minimum control state that does not disadvantage the player For example, it is not necessary to restore the state of all input ports to the state before power interruption.

  In the slot machine 1 of the present embodiment, as described above, the prescribed number of bets that can be set is determined according to the gaming state (usually inside, BB (RB)), and is determined according to the gaming state. The game can be started on condition that the specified number of bets is set. In the present embodiment, the winning line LN is activated when a prescribed number of bets corresponding to the gaming state is set.

  In the slot machine 1 of the present embodiment, when all the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R are stopped, the winning line LN that is activated (hereinafter, the activated winning line LN is simply referred to as the winning line LN). A winning combination will be awarded when a combination of symbols called “comb” is complete. The combination may be a combination of the same symbols or a combination including different symbols. The type of winning combination is determined according to the game state, but it can be roughly divided into a small role with payout of medals and a replay that can start the next game without the need to set the number of bets. There are a game combination and a special combination with a transition to a game state advantageous to the player. Below, a small role and a re-playing role are collectively called a general role. In order to win each winning combination determined according to the gaming state, it is necessary to win an internal lottery to be described later and set a winning flag for the winning combination in the RAM.

  Among the winning flags for each of these combinations, the winning flag for the small role and the replaying role is valid only in the game in which the flag is set, and is invalid in the next game, but the special flag winning flag is It is valid until a combination of combinations permitted by the flag is completed, and is invalid in a game having a combination of combinations permitted. In other words, once the special combination winning flag is won, even if the combination of the combinations permitted by the flag cannot be made, the winning flag is not invalidated and is carried over to the next game. It becomes.

  In the internal lottery, it is determined whether or not the above winning combination is permitted before the display results of all reels 2L, 2C, and 2R are derived and displayed (actually, when the start switch 7 is detected). To do. In the internal lottery, first, a random value for internal lottery (an integer from 0 to 65535) is acquired when the start switch 7 is detected. Specifically, the value of the random number value storage work assigned to the RAM 41c is set to the lottery work assigned to the RAM 41c. Then, for each combination determined according to the gaming state and whether or not the special combination is carried over, the numerical data stored in the lottery work, the value of the gaming state flag for specifying the gaming state, and the RT described later are specified. The determination is made according to the number of determination values of each combination determined according to the value of the RT flag, the number of bets, and the set value.

  In the internal lottery, an internal lottery target, a current gaming state flag value, an RT flag value, and the number of determination values determined corresponding to the set value are stored in a random number for internal lottery (a lottery work). When the result of addition overflows, it is determined that the winning combination is won. For this reason, a winning combination will be won with a probability (number of determination values / 65536) according to the number of determination values.

  If a winning combination of any combination is determined, a winning flag corresponding to the combination determined to be winning is set in the internal winning flag storing work assigned to the RAM 41c. The internal winning flag storage work consists of a 2-byte storage area, of which the upper byte is assigned as the special role storing work in which the winning flag for the special role is set, and the lower byte is the winning of the general role It is assigned as a general role storage work for which a flag is set. Specifically, when a special combination is won, a special combination winning flag indicating that the special combination is won is set in the special combination storing work, and the winning flag set in the general combination storing work is cleared. When a general combination is won, a winning flag for the general combination indicating that the general combination is won is set in the general combination storing work. If no winning combination or combination of winning combinations is won, only the general winning combination work is cleared.

  Next, stop control of the reels 2L, 2C, 2R will be described.

  The main control unit 41 refers to the table index and table creation data stored in the ROM 41b when the reel starts to rotate and when the reel stops and the reel that is still rotating still remains. A stop control table is created for each reel that is rotating. When any of the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R corresponding to the rotating reel is effectively detected, the stop control table of the corresponding reel is referred to and the slip of the referred stop control table is referred to. Based on the number of frames, control is performed to stop the rotation of the reels 2L, 2C, 2R corresponding to the operated stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R.

  In the table index, an index that indicates the start address of the area in which the data for table creation is stored, from the reference address when referring to the table index, according to the setting state of the winning flag by internal lottery (hereinafter referred to as the internal winning state) Differences up to the address where the data is stored are registered. As a result, a difference corresponding to the internal winning state is acquired, and the corresponding index data can be acquired by adding the difference to the reference address. Even if the winning status of the combination is different, when the same control is applied, the same address is stored as the index data. In such a case, the same table creation data is referred to. Thus, a stop control table is created.

  The table creation data includes a stop control table indicating the number of sliding frames according to the stop operation position, and an address of the stop control table to be referred to according to the reel stop status.

  The stop control table referred to according to the reel stop status is whether all reels are rotating, only the left reel is stopped, only the middle reel is stopped, only the right reel is stopped, It may vary depending on whether the middle reel is stopped, the left and right reels are stopped, the middle and right reels are stopped, and if any reel is stopped, stop Since there may be differences depending on the stop position of the reels already completed, the address of the stop control table to be referenced for each situation is registered for each rotating reel, and based on the top address of the table creation data, It is possible to specify the address of the stop control table that should be referred to according to the status of the system. And to be able to identify the stop control table. Even when the stop status of the reels and the stop position of the stopped reels are different, when the same stop control table is applied, the same address may be registered as the address of the stop control table. In such a case, the same stop control table is referred to.

  The stop control table is data that can specify the number of sliding frames for each timing when the stop operation is performed. In the present embodiment, stepping motors that make one turn at a cycle of 168 steps (0 to 167) are used for the reel motors 32L, 32C, and 32R. That is, when the reel motors 32L, 32C, and 32R are driven for 168 steps, the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R make one round. Then, 21 areas (frames) divided every 16 steps (the number of steps that one symbol moves) are defined for one reel, and these areas are areas 0 to 20 from the reel reference position. A number is assigned. On the other hand, the number of symbols arranged on one reel is 21, and symbol numbers 0 to 20 from the reel reference position are assigned to symbols on each reel, so symbols 0 to 20 are assigned to each reel. , Area numbers 0 to 20 are assigned in order. In the stop control table, the number of sliding symbols for each area number is compressed and stored according to a predetermined rule, and the number of sliding symbols for each area number can be acquired by expanding the stop control table. Yes.

  As described above, the stop control table created by referring to the table index and the table creation data corresponds to the area number, and the area corresponding to each area number has a stop reference position (in this embodiment, a perspective window). 3 when the operation of the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R is detected at the timing (the timing in which the number of steps from the reel reference position is included in the range of the number of steps). This is a table in which the number of frames is set.

  Next, the procedure for creating the stop control table will be described. First, at the start of reel rotation, the top address of the table creation data corresponding to the internal winning state of the game is acquired. Specifically, the table index is first referred to, index data corresponding to the internal winning state is obtained, table creation data is identified based on the obtained index data, and all reels are identified from the identified table creation data. The address of the stop control table for each reel corresponding to the state of rotation is acquired, and the stop control table for each reel stored at the acquired address is expanded to generate a stop control table for all reels.

  Further, when any one reel stops or any two reels stop, the index data acquired at the start of reel rotation, that is, the top address of the table creation data corresponding to the internal winning state of the game The table creation data is identified based on the table creation data, and the stop control table address of the unreacted reel corresponding to the stopped reel and the area number of the stop position of the reel is obtained from the identified table creation data. The stop control table for each stored reel is expanded to create a stop control table for the unstopped reels.

  Next, when the main control unit 41 effectively detects any one of the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R corresponding to the rotating reel, the control when the display result is derived to the corresponding reel is described. To explain, when any operation corresponding to the rotating reel is detected effectively among the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R, the stop operation position is based on the number of steps from the reel reference position when the stop operation is detected. The number of sliding symbols corresponding to the area number of the specified stop operation position is acquired by referring to the stop control table of the reel where the stop operation is detected. Then, control is performed to rotate and stop the reel by the number of acquired sliding frames. Specifically, from the number of steps from the reel reference position at the time when the stop operation is detected, the number of steps from the acquired number of sliding frames to the stop is calculated, and the reel is rotated and stopped by the calculated number of steps. Take control. Thus, the region corresponding to the region number that is the stop position ahead of the number of sliding frames from the region corresponding to the region number of the stop operation position where the stop operation is detected is the stop reference position (in this embodiment, the fluoroscopic window 3 The lower symbol area).

  In the table index of the present embodiment, only one address is stored as index data corresponding to one internal winning state in one gaming state, and one table creation data includes one reel. Only one address is stored as the address of the storage area of the stop control table corresponding to the stop status (and the stop position of the stopped reel). In other words, table creation data corresponding to one internal winning state in one gaming state and stop control tables corresponding to reel stop states (and stopped positions of stopped reels) are uniquely determined. The stop control table created with reference to is unique for one internal winning state in one gaming state and the reel stop status (and the stop position of the stopped reel). Therefore, when all of the gaming state, the internal winning state, and the reel stop status (and the stop position of the stopped reel) are the same, the reel is based on the same stop control table, that is, the same control pattern. The stop control is performed.

  Further, in the present embodiment, a value of 0 to 4 is determined as the number of sliding frames, and it is possible to stop the reel by drawing a maximum of 4 frames after detecting a stop operation. In other words, the stop position of the symbol can be designated from a range of a maximum of 5 frames including the stop operation position where the stop operation is detected. In addition, since it is necessary to move one frame to move the reel for one symbol, it is possible to stop the reel by pulling in a maximum of four symbols after detecting the stop operation. The symbol stop position can be designated from a range of up to five symbols including the operation position.

  In the present embodiment, when any of the winning combinations is won, the winning combination is drawn into the winning line LN to the maximum in the range of 4 frames, and the winning combination is drawn so that it does not align with the winning line LN. Create a stop control table with the number of sliding symbols and perform reel stop control. On the other hand, if you do not win any of the roles, stop control with the number of sliding symbols that does not match any of the roles Create a table and perform reel stop control. As a result, when a stop operation is performed, if the winning combination can be stopped in the winning line LN within the drawing range of a maximum of 4 frames, the control is performed so that the winning combination is stopped. The combination that has not been performed will be controlled to be stopped in a drawing range of up to 4 frames.

  If a special role and a small role are elected at the same time, such as when a special role is elected while the special role has been carried over from before the previous game, the elected small role will be placed in the winning line LN within 4 frames. The number of sliding symbols is set so as to be pulled in as much as possible, and for the stop operation position where the selected small role cannot be drawn into the winning line LN within the range of up to 4 frames, the winning special role is set to 4 in the winning line LN. A stop control table in which the number of sliding frames is determined so as to be pulled in as much as possible within the range of frames is created, and reel stop control is performed. As a result, when a stop operation is performed, if it is possible to stop all the small roles that have been selected in the winning line LN within a drawing range of a maximum of 4 frames, the control is performed so that the winning combination is stopped. If it is not possible to withdraw a small role that has been won in the draw range of up to 4 frames to the line LN, if the special role that has been won in the draw range of up to 4 frames can be aligned and stopped on the winning line LN, Control is performed to align and stop this, and the winning combination that has not been won is controlled to be stopped within the drawing range of 4 frames. That is, in such a case, priority is given to the control for aligning the small role with the winning line LN over the special role, and the special role can be won only when the small role cannot be drawn. When a special combination and a small combination can be drawn at the same time, only the small combination is drawn and the small combination is not aligned with the winning line LN at the same time as the special combination.

  In this embodiment, when a special role is elected while the special role has been carried over from before the previous game, or when a special role and a small role are won simultaneously, the special role and the small role are won simultaneously. If the winning combination is prioritized over the winning special role, the special role is controlled to align with the winning line LN only when the winning combination cannot be drawn. When the two are simultaneously elected, the control for aligning the special role with the winning line LN has priority over the small role, and the control for aligning the small role with the winning line LN may be performed only when the special role cannot be drawn. .

  If a special player and a replaying player are elected at the same time, such as when a replaying player is elected while the special role has been carried over from before the previous game, the winning line LN will be displayed when the stop operation is performed. In addition, a control is performed in which the symbols of the re-gamer are aligned and stopped within a drawing range of up to 4 frames. In this case, the symbols constituting the re-gamer or the symbols constituting the re-gamer elected at the same time are arranged within 5 symbols for each of the reels 2L, 2C and 2R, that is, at intervals of 4 frames or less. Since it can always be stopped at any position within the 4-frame pull-in range, if the special combination and the re-playing combination are elected at the same time, the timing of the operation of the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R by the player Without fail, the re-playing role will always be won. That is, in such a case, the control for aligning the re-games with the winning line LN has priority over the special game, and the re-games will always win. In the case where the special combination and the re-playing combination can be withdrawn at the same time, only the re-playing combination is drawn in and the special combination is not aligned with the winning line LN simultaneously with the re-playing combination.

  In the present embodiment, the main control unit 41 rotates the reels for which the stop operation has not yet been detected until the operation of the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R is detected after the rotation of the reels 2L, 2C, 2R is started. And the control for stopping the display result on the corresponding reel is performed on condition that the operation of the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R is detected. Even if the reel rotation temporarily stops due to the occurrence of a reel rotation error, the stop operation is still detected until the operation of the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R is detected after the reel rotation is restarted. Control is performed to stop the display result of the corresponding reels on the condition that the rotation of the reels that have not been continued is continued and the operation of the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R is detected.

  In the present embodiment, the control for stopping the display result on the corresponding reel is performed on the condition that the operation of the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R is detected, but the rotation of the reel is started. Then, when a predetermined automatic stop time has elapsed, even if the reel stop operation is not performed, it is assumed that the stop operation has been performed, and automatic stop control is performed to automatically stop each reel. Anyway. In this case, since the reels are stopped without the player's operation, for example, it is preferable to derive a display result that does not constitute any combination even if any combination is won.

  As shown in FIG. 5, a game control program is stored in the ROM 41 b of the game control board 41. The game control program includes an internal lottery control module for performing control related to the internal lottery process executed in Sd2 in the game control process of FIG. 10 and an input / output process executed in Sd7 of the game control process of FIG. An input / output control module that performs control related to input / output at the I / O port), a reel rotation control module that performs control related to reel rotation processing executed in Sd3 in the game control processing of FIG. 10, and FIG. A payout control module for performing control related to the payout process executed in Sd5 in the game control process. Thus, the game control program includes a plurality of control modules corresponding to each control executed on the main control board 41. Therefore, if only one type of control module (one or more) needs to be replaced with another model, only that control module needs to be replaced, and the game control program can be easily changed.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the effect control program is stored in the ROM 91 b of the effect control board 91. The effect control program performs control related to the effect LED 52, the speakers 53 and 54, and the reel LED 55 described above in the sound / LED control process executed in Sd5 in the timer interrupt process (sub) in FIG. In the sound / LED control module, the AT control module for performing control related to the AT control process executed in Sd6 in the timer interrupt process (sub) in FIG. 24, and in Sd7 in the timer interrupt process (sub) in FIG. And an image control module that performs control related to image display on the liquid crystal display 51 in the image control processing to be executed. Thus, the effect control program includes a plurality of control modules corresponding to each control executed on the effect control board 91. Therefore, when only one (one or a plurality) of control modules of a certain model need to be replaced with respect to another model, only the control module needs to be replaced, and the production control program can be easily changed.

  Next, various control contents executed by the main control unit 41 in the present embodiment will be described below with reference to FIGS.

  When the system reset signal is input from the reset circuit 49, the main control unit 41 performs the startup process (main) shown in the flowcharts of FIGS.

  First, after the built-in device, peripheral IC, interrupt mode, stack pointer, etc. are initialized (Sa2), the values of the I register and IY register are initialized (Sa3). By the initialization of the I register and the IY register, the address of the interrupt table to be referred to when an interrupt occurs is set in the I register, and the reference address for referring to the storage area of the RAM 41c is set in the IY register. . These values are fixed values and are always initialized at startup. Next, in step Sa4, access to the RAM 41c and the external memory (backup RAM) is permitted (Sa4).

  After permitting access to the RAM 41c and the external memory (backup RAM), it is determined whether or not the backup flag for the internal lottery control module is set in the external memory (backup RAM) (Sa5). In this embodiment, in Sm5, Sm10, Sm15, and Sm20 in the power interruption process (main) of FIG. 13, when a power interruption occurs, a backup flag is set for each program module. That is, in this embodiment, regarding the processing performed by the main control unit 41, the backup flag corresponds to the backup flag corresponding to the internal lottery control module, the backup flag corresponding to the input / output control module, and the reach rotation control module. There are four types of backup flags and backup flags corresponding to the payout control module. In Sa5, the main control unit 41 first checks whether or not a backup flag corresponding to the internal lottery control module is set.

  When the backup flag corresponding to the internal lottery control module is set, the backup flag is cleared (Sa6). After clearing the backup flag, an exclusive OR of data in an area where data used in the internal lottery control module of the external memory (backup RAM) is stored is obtained and a checksum is calculated (Sa7). Thereafter, it is determined whether or not the calculated checksum matches the backed-up checksum (Sa8). In this embodiment, in Sm4, Sm9, Sm14, and Sm19 in the power interruption process (main) in FIG. 13, the data used in the module is also checked for each module when a power interruption occurs. It is generated by obtaining an exclusive OR, and is stored in an external memory (backup RAM). That is, in this embodiment, regarding the processing performed by the main control unit 41, the checksum includes a checksum calculated using data used in the internal lottery control module and data used in the input / output control module. There are four types: a checksum calculated using the data, a checksum calculated using data used in the reach rotation control module, and a checksum calculated using data used in the payout control module. is there. In Sa8, the main control unit 41 first confirms whether or not the checksum calculated using the data used in the internal lottery control module matches that being backed up.

  If the checksums match, it is determined whether a backup flag corresponding to the input / output control module is set in the external memory (backup RAM) (Sa9). If the backup flag corresponding to the input / output control module is set, the backup flag is cleared (Sa10). After clearing the backup flag, a checksum is calculated by obtaining an exclusive OR of data in an area where data used by the input / output control module of the external memory (backup RAM) is stored (Sa11). Thereafter, it is determined whether or not the calculated checksum matches the backed-up checksum (Sa12).

  If the checksums match, it is determined whether a backup flag corresponding to the reel rotation control module is set in the external memory (backup RAM) (Sa14). If the backup flag corresponding to the reel rotation control module is set, the backup flag is cleared (Sa15). After clearing the backup flag, the exclusive sum of the data in the area where the data used in the reel rotation control module of the external memory (backup RAM) is stored is obtained to calculate the checksum (Sa16). Thereafter, it is determined whether or not the calculated checksum matches the backed-up checksum (Sa17).

  If the checksums match, it is determined whether a backup flag corresponding to the payout control module is set in the external memory (backup RAM) (Sa18). If the backup flag corresponding to the payout control module is set, the backup flag is cleared (Sa19). After clearing the backup flag, a checksum is calculated by obtaining an exclusive OR of data in an area where data used by the payout control module of the external memory (backup RAM) is stored (Sa20). Thereafter, it is determined whether or not the calculated checksum matches the backed-up checksum (Sa21).

  In Sa8, Sa12, Sa17, Sa21, when it is determined that even one checksum does not match, or in Sa5, Sa9, Sa14, Sa18, it is determined that no backup flag is set. In this case, after executing initialization processing for initializing all storage areas of the RAM 41c and the external memory (backup RAM) (Sa29), it is determined whether or not the setting key switch 37 is on (Sa30). If the setting key switch 37 is on, a setting changing command indicating that the setting is being changed is generated, and the generated setting changing command is stored in the command buffer (Sa27). The setting changing command is immediately transmitted by executing the same process as the command transmission process of step Sk16 in the timer interrupt process described later after the process of step Sa27. Next, the main control unit 41 described in FIG. 11 permits the interruption of the timer interruption process (main) executed at regular intervals (0.56 ms interval) (Sa28), and changes the winning probability of the winning combination, etc. The process shifts to a setting change process for performing the setting, that is, a setting change state. When the setting change process is completed, the game control process shown in FIG. 10 is performed.

  If the setting key switch 37 is OFF in the step of Sa30, an error code indicating RAM abnormality is set in the register (Sa31), an error command indicating RAM abnormality is generated, and the generated error command is stored in the command buffer ( Sa32). The error command is transmitted immediately after the process of step Sa32 by executing the same process as the command transmission process of step Sk16 in the timer interrupt process described later. Next, the interrupt of the timer interrupt process (main) executed by the main control unit 41 described in FIG. 11 at regular intervals (0.56 ms interval) is permitted (Sa33), and error processing, that is, a RAM abnormal error state. Migrate to Then, for example, when the RAM abnormal error state is canceled by operating the reset / setting switch 38 by a game store clerk, the game control process shown in FIG. 10 is performed.

  If it is determined in Sa21 that the checksums match, it is determined whether or not the setting key switch 37 is on (Sa23). If the setting key switch 37 is on, the initialization processing for initializing all storage areas of the RAM 41c and the external memory (backup RAM) is executed (Sa26), and then the processing of Sa27 to Sa28 is performed to change the setting. The process shifts to the setting change state. When the setting change process is completed, the game control process shown in FIG. 10 is performed.

  If the setting key switch 37 is off in the step of Sa23, each register is returned to the state before power interruption, that is, the state stored in the stack (Sa24). Then, a return command is generated, the generated return command is stored in the command buffer (Sa24a), and a timer interrupt process (main interval of 0.56 ms) executed by the main control unit 41 described in FIG. Main) interrupt is permitted (Sa25), and the process executed last before power interruption is returned to. The return command is stored in a command transmission buffer assigned to a special work in the RAM 41c of the main control unit 41, and a process similar to the command transmission process in step Sk16 in the timer interrupt process described later is executed. Sent immediately when power is restored. If any one of the game control processes shown in FIG. 10 has been performed before the power interruption, the game control process Sd1 to Sd7 is executed based on the value of the program counter (PC) restored in Sa24. Return to the processing that was performed before power interruption. Also, for example, if any of the timer interrupt processing shown in FIG. 11 has been performed before power interruption, the timer interrupt is based on the value of the program counter (PC) returned in Sa24. Of the processes Sk1 to Sk26, the process returns to the process performed before power interruption.

  As described above, in the start-up process (main), all the checksums of the program modules match each other and all the backup flags for the program modules are set. Since the previous state is restored, it is possible to prevent the backup data of some modules from being restored even though they are not accurate. Thus, even if backup data is created for each module, it can be reliably restored.

  Commands transmitted from the main control unit 41 to the sub-control unit 91 include a reel rotation start command, a reel stop command, a return command, a setting change command, and an error command.

  The reel rotation start command is a command for notifying the start of reel rotation. The reel stop command is a command that can specify whether the reel to be stopped is the left reel, the middle reel, or the right reel, the area number of the corresponding reel stop operation position, and the area number of the corresponding reel stop position. It is. Since the reel stop command is transmitted when the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R are operated, it is possible to specify that the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R are operated by receiving the reel stop command. .

  The error command is a command indicating occurrence or cancellation of an error state and the type of error state.

  The return command is a command indicating that the main control unit 41 has returned to the control state before power interruption.

  The setting changing command is a command indicating that the setting is being changed. In addition, since the control state of the main control unit 41 is initialized with the transition to the setting change state, the control state of the main control unit 41 is initialized by a setting changing command indicating that the setting is being changed. Can be specified.

  Regarding the above-described plural types of commands, when a command for changing settings, an error command, and a return command are transmitted in the startup process illustrated in FIGS. 7 to 9, these commands are stored in the RAM 41 c of the main control unit 41. Is stored in the command transmission buffer assigned to the special work, and is transmitted immediately in the startup process by executing the same process as the command transmission process in step Sk16 in the timer interrupt process described later.

  On the other hand, the reel rotation start command and the reel stop command are temporarily stored in a command transmission buffer provided in a special work in the RAM 41c of the main control unit 41, and executed by the timer interrupt process (main) shown in FIG. Is transmitted to the sub-control unit 91 in the command transmission process (Sk16).

  FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the control content of the game control process executed by the main control unit 41.

  In the game control process, a BET process (Sd1), an internal lottery process (Sd2), a reel rotation process (Sd3), a winning determination process (Sd4), a payout process (Sd5), a game end process (Sd6), an input / output process ( When the input / output process (Sd7) is completed, the process returns to the BET process (Sd1) again.

  In the BET process in the step of Sd1, the process waits in a state where a bet number can be set, and a process for starting a game when a specified number of bets is set according to the gaming state and the start switch 7 is operated is executed. .

  The internal lottery process in step Sd2 is a process executed by the main control unit 41 according to the internal lottery module. In the internal lottery process in the step of Sd2, it is determined whether or not the above winning combination is allowed based on the internal lottery random value latched simultaneously with the start of the game by the detection of the start switch 7 in the step of Sd1. Process. In this internal lottery process, a winning flag is set in the RAM 41c based on the respective lottery results.

  The reel rotation process in step Sd3 is a process executed by the main control unit 41 according to the reel rotation control module. In the reel rotation process in the step of Sd3, the process of rotating each reel 2L, 2C, 2R and the operation of the corresponding reel 2L, 2C, 2R in response to the operation of the stop switch 8L, 8C, 8R detected by the player are detected. A process for stopping the rotation is executed. A reel rotation command indicating that the reels 2L, 2C and 2R have started rotating, a reel stop command indicating the type of reel to be stopped, and a symbol to be stopped for the reel are generated in the reel rotation processing and stored in the command buffer. . Each command stored in the command buffer is transmitted to the sub-control unit 91 in the command transmission process (Sk16) executed in the timer interrupt process (main) shown in FIG. Then, it waits until the rotation of the reel (2L, 2C, 2R) corresponding to the operated stop button stops (Sf12).

  In the winning determination process in the step Sd4, when it is determined in the step Sd3 that the rotation of all the reels 2L, 2C, and 2R is stopped, the winning is determined according to the display result derived for each reel 2L, 2C, and 2R. A process of determining whether or not it has occurred is executed.

  The payout process in step Sd5 is a process executed by the main control unit 41 according to the payout control module. In the payout process in step Sd5, when it is determined that a prize is generated in step Sd4, processing such as addition of credits and payout of medals is performed based on the number of payouts according to the win.

  In the game end process in the step of Sd6, a process of setting a gaming state in preparation for the next game is executed.

  The input / output process in step Sd7 is a process executed by the main control unit 41 according to the input / output control module. In the input / output process in step Sd7, the input state of the input port is monitored, the presence / absence of input of various switches is detected, and the detection result is set in the input buffer. In this embodiment, for example, in the switch input determination process of Sk21 in FIG. 12 and the stop switch process of Sk23 in FIG. 12 described later, whether each switch is turned on by looking at the state of the input buffer set in Sd7. Confirm whether or not. In the input / output process in step Sd7, a process of outputting output signals to various solenoids and LEDs is performed based on the state of the output buffer. In this embodiment, for example, various output values such as LEDs are set in the output buffer in the LED dynamic display process of Sk12 in FIG.

  FIG. 11 and FIG. 12 are flowcharts showing the control contents of the timer interrupt process (main) executed by the main control unit 41 interrupting and executing the activation process and the game control process at regular intervals (0.56 ms interval). Note that other interrupts are automatically prohibited during the execution period of the timer interrupt process (main).

  In the timer interrupt process (main), first, the register in use is saved in the stack area (Sk1).

  Next, a power failure determination process is performed (Sk2). In the power failure determination process, it is determined whether or not a voltage drop signal is input from the power failure detection circuit 48. If a voltage drop signal is input, whether or not the voltage drop signal is input in the previous power failure determination process as well. If a voltage drop signal has been input in the previous power failure determination process, it is determined that a power failure has occurred, and a power interruption flag indicating that is set.

  After the power failure determination process in the step of Sk2, it is determined whether or not the power interruption flag is set (Sk3). If the power interruption flag is not set, the process proceeds to Sk4 and the power interruption flag is set The process proceeds to a power interruption process (main) described later.

  In step Sk4, port input processing for inputting detection data of various switches from the input port is performed.

  Next, the branch counter for identifying the timer interrupt to be executed in the timer interrupt process (main) is advanced by 1 from the four types of timer interrupts 1 to 4 (Sk5). In this embodiment, the timer interrupt 1 is a branch process during a timer interrupt that controls the motor to control the start of the reel. Specifically, the processes from Sk9 to Sk11, such as a reel start process described later. Is done. Timer interrupt 2 is branch processing during timer interrupt that performs LED display control, time counter update, door open / close status monitoring, control signal output control, command and external output signal update, etc. Specifically, the processes of Sk12 to Sk17 such as the LED dynamic display process described later are performed. The timer interrupt 3 is a branching process during timer interrupt that detects the origin passage of the reel, monitors the switch input, and reads out the random number value. Processing of Sk20 to Sk22 such as time processing is performed. The timer interrupt 4 is a branching process during a timer interrupt that detects the input of a stop switch and performs reel stop control. Specifically, the processes of Sk23 to Sk25, such as a stop switch process described later. Is done. In the step of Sk5, 1 is added when the branch counter value is 0 to 2, and is updated to 0 when the counter value is 3. That is, the branch counter value loops in the order of 0 → 1 → 2 → 3 → 0... Each time the timer interrupt process (main) is executed.

  Next, the branch counter value is referenced to determine whether it is 2 or 3, that is, timer interrupt 3 or timer interrupt 4 (Sk6). If it is not timer interrupt 3 or timer interrupt 4, that is, timer interrupt In the case of 1 or timer interrupt 2, it is checked whether the reel motors 32L, 32C, 32R are started or whether they are rotating at a constant speed, and whether the reel motors 32L, 32C, 32R are started or are rotating at a constant speed. For example, the motor phase signal output process for outputting the phase signal data changed in the motor step process of Sk10 described later and the phase signal data changed in the final stop process of Sk24 described later is executed (Sk7).

  Next, referring to the counter value for branching, it is determined whether or not it is 1, that is, timer interrupt 2 (Sk8). If it is not timer interrupt 2, that is, timer interrupt 1, the reel motor Reel starting process (Sk9) for controlling the step time interval when starting 32L, 32C, 32R, motor step process (Sk10) for changing phase signal data of the reel motors 32L, 32C, 32R, reel motors 32L, 32C After the stop of 32R, motor phase signal standby processing (Sk11) for changing the phase signal to one-phase excitation after a predetermined time has been sequentially executed, and then the process proceeds to step Sk25.

  In the case of timer interrupt 2 in the step of Sk8, LED dynamic display processing (Sk12) for dynamically lighting various indicators, and output processing of control signals and the like for outputting data such as lighting signals of various LEDs to the output port (Sk13), a time counter update process (Sk14) for updating various time counters, a door monitoring process (Sk15) for monitoring the detection state of the door open detection switch 25, a door command transmission request, etc., set in the command buffer A command transmission process (Sk16) for transmitting various commands such as a setting change command, a return command, and an error command to the sub-control unit 91 and an external output signal update process (Sk17) for updating the external output signal are sequentially executed, and then Sk25. Go to step.

  If it is timer interrupt 3 or timer interrupt 4 in the step of Sk6, it is further determined by referring to the counter value for branching whether it is 3, that is, timer interrupt 4 (Sk18). If it is not interrupt 4, that is, if it is timer interrupt 3, the passing of the origin of the rotating reels 2L, 2C, 2R (pass of the reel reference position) is checked, and the occurrence of a reel rotation error is detected and stopped. Check if the preparation is complete (whether the stop preparation completion code is set). If the stop preparation is complete and the motor is rotating at a constant speed, operate the stop switch corresponding to the rotating reel. Processing to pass through origin (Sk20), switch input determination processing (Sk21) for determining whether or not the detection state of switches has changed, operation detection command transmission request, etc. After executing random number reading process to be stored in the random number storing work the (SK22) sequentially reads numeric data from Staphylococcus R1D, the process proceeds to step Sk26.

  If the timer interrupt is 4 in the step of Sk18, the stop stored in the work on the stop reel is stored when the stop operation position is stored in the work on the stop reel in accordance with the detection of the stop switches 8L, 8C, 8R. The stop position is determined from the operation position, the stop switch process (Sk23) for calculating the number of steps after which the stop should be performed, and the number of steps until the stop calculated in the stop switch process is counted. A stop process (Sk24) for starting braking by two-phase excitation and a final stop process (Sk25) for three-phase excitation after a certain time from the start of braking in the stop process are sequentially executed, and then the process proceeds to step Sk26.

  In the step of Sk26, the register saved in the stack area in Sk1 is restored, and the processing before the interruption is returned.

  As described above, in this embodiment, the basic process is interrupted at regular intervals to execute the timer interrupt process (main), and the process counter is updated each time the timer interrupt process (main) is executed. The processing determined according to the value is performed, and the load required for one timer interrupt processing (main) can be distributed. In addition, the power interruption is based on the voltage drop signal regardless of the processing counter value. A power failure determination process is performed to determine whether or not the condition is satisfied. If the power interruption condition is satisfied, the power interruption process is performed. It is possible to perform a power interruption process.

  In the timer interrupt process (main), it is determined whether or not the power interruption condition is satisfied. If the power interruption condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to the power interruption process. Since interruptions due to power interruptions do not occur during execution of interrupt processing (main), interruption processing can be interrupted during execution of timer interruption processing (main), or timer interruption processing (main) Since it is not necessary to wait for the end of the interruption to perform an interruption process associated with power interruption, the process associated with establishment of the power interruption condition is not complicated.

  FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the control content of the power interruption process (main) executed when the main control unit 41 determines that the power interruption flag is set in the timer interrupt process (main) described above.

  In the power interruption process (main), first, the main control unit 41 reads data used in the internal lottery control module from the work RAM (Sm1). Next, predetermined data conversion is performed on the data read from the work RAM to create backup data (Sm2). Then, the main control unit 41 stores the created backup data in the backup RAM (Sm3). Next, the main control unit 41 calculates the exclusive OR of the backup data converted in Sm2, calculates the checksum of the backup data of the internal lottery control module, and sets it in the backup RAM (Sm4). After setting the checksum data, the main control unit 41 sets a backup flag indicating that the backup has been executed in the backup RAM (Sm5).

  Here, the data conversion process in step Sm2 will be described. In Sm1, the main control unit 41 reads data of 2 bytes (16 bits) from the work RAM which is an internal memory. In this embodiment, an SRAM capable of only 8-bit bus access is connected as an external memory and used as a backup RAM. As described above, in this embodiment, the main control unit 41 can only perform 16-bit or 32-bit bus access to an external device such as an external memory. Then, even if the 16-bit data read from the work RAM is stored in the backup RAM as it is, only the 8-bit data can be recognized on the backup RAM side, so the upper 8 bits are lost and the lower 8-bit data. However, a situation in which the data cannot be stored in the backup RAM occurs. Therefore, in the step Sm2, the 16-bit data read in Sm1 is converted into two data by performing the following data conversion process.

  First, for the first conversion data, the 16-bit data read in Sm1 is masked with the mask value “00FF (H)” as it is, and only the lower 8 bits of the original data read in Sm1 are used as the lower 8 bits. Generate data set to. For the second conversion data, the 16-bit data read in Sm1 is shifted by 8 bits (therefore, the value in the upper 8 bits of the original data is moved to the lower 8 bits). ), The data after the shift processing is masked with the mask value “00FF (H)”, and data in which the upper 8 bits of the original data read in Sm1 are set to the lower 8 bits is generated. Then, by storing these two pieces of conversion data in the backup RAM in the step Sm3, the data is divided into two data, but the upper and lower values of the original data read in Sm1 are not lost, and the power backup can do.

  Note that, in the steps Sm7, Sm12, and Sm17, which will be described later, the same data conversion process as that in the step Sm2 described above is executed.

  Next, the main control unit 41 reads data used in the input / output control module from the work RAM (Sm6). Next, predetermined data conversion is performed on the data read from the work RAM to create backup data (Sm7). Then, the main control unit 41 stores the created backup data in the backup RAM (Sm8). Next, the main control unit 41 calculates the exclusive OR of the backup data converted in Sm2, calculates the checksum of the backup data of the input / output control module, and sets it in the backup RAM (Sm9). After setting the checksum data, the main control unit 41 sets a backup flag indicating that the backup has been executed in the backup RAM (Sm10).

  Next, the main control unit 41 reads data used in the reel rotation control module from the work RAM (Sm11). Next, predetermined data conversion is performed on the data read from the work RAM to create backup data (Sm12). Then, the main control unit 41 stores the created backup data in the backup RAM (Sm13). Next, the main control unit 41 calculates the exclusive OR of the backup data converted in Sm2, calculates the checksum of the backup data of the reel rotation control module, and sets it in the backup RAM (Sm14). After the checksum data is set, a backup flag indicating that the backup has been executed is set in the backup RAM (Sm15).

  Next, the main control unit 41 reads data used in the payout control module from the work RAM (Sm16). Next, predetermined data conversion is performed on the data read from the work RAM to create backup data (Sm17). The main control unit 41 stores the created backup data in the backup RAM (Sm18). Next, the main control unit 41 calculates the exclusive OR of the backup data converted in Sm2, calculates the checksum of the backup data of the payout control module, and sets it in the backup RAM (Sm19). After setting the checksum data, the main control unit 41 sets a backup flag indicating that the backup has been executed in the backup RAM (Sm20).

  After setting the backup flag in Sm20, access to the RAM 41c is prohibited (Sm21). Thereafter, the voltage decreases, and the CPU 41a of the main control unit 41 stops and shifts to a standby state. And if a voltage falls in this standby state, it will be in an operation stop state internally. Therefore, the main control unit 41 reliably stops operation when power is interrupted.

  Here, a specific example of storing backup data of each program module in the game control board 40 in the backup RAM will be described with reference to FIG.

  As described with reference to FIG. 13, among the four program modules of the internal lottery control module, the input / output control module, the reel rotation control module, and the payout control module, first, the backup data of the internal lottery control module is stored in the backup RAM ( Sm3). In the backup RAM, the start address designated when storing the backup data of the internal lottery control module is set to “A6000”. Therefore, the main control unit 41 designates “A6000” as the start address in the step of Sm3, and starts storing backup data of the internal lottery module generated by data conversion in the step of Sm2. Then, until all the data for the internal lottery control module stored in the work RAM is backed up, the processes of Sm1 to Sm3 are repeatedly executed while incrementing the storage destination address of the backup RAM.

  Next, after storing the backup data of the internal lottery control module, the backup data of the input / output control module is stored in the backup RAM (Sm8). In the backup RAM, the start address designated when storing the backup data of the input / output control module is set to “A7000”. Therefore, the main control unit 41 designates “A7000” as the start address in the step Sm8, and starts storing the backup data of the input / output control module generated by data conversion in the step Sm7. The processes of Sm6 to Sm8 are repeatedly executed while incrementing the storage destination address of the backup RAM until the backup of all the data for the input / output control module stored in the work RAM is completed.

  Next, after storing the backup data of the input / output control module, the backup data of the reel rotation control module is stored in the backup RAM (Sm13). In the backup RAM, the start address designated when storing the backup data of the reel rotation control module is set to “A8000”. Therefore, the main control unit 41 designates “A8000” as the start address in step Sm13, and starts storing the backup data of the reel rotation control module generated by data conversion in step Sm12. Then, until all the data for the reel rotation control module stored in the work RAM is backed up, the processes of Sm11 to Sm13 are repeatedly executed while incrementing the storage destination address of the backup RAM.

  Next, after storing the backup data of the input / output control module, the backup data of the payout control module is stored in the backup RAM (Sm18). In the backup RAM, the start address designated when storing the backup data of the payout control module is set to “A9000”. Therefore, in step Sm18, the main control unit 41 designates “A9000” as the start address, and starts storing backup data of the payout control module generated by data conversion in step Sm17. Then, until all the data for the payout control module stored in the work RAM are backed up, the processes of Sm16 to Sm18 are repeatedly executed while incrementing the storage destination address of the backup RAM.

  As described above, since backup data is stored for each program module, when only one of the program modules needs to be changed in another model, only the program module needs to be replaced, and the game control program can be easily changed. . And since the start address for storing backup data of each program module is set for each program module, it is not necessary to maintain consistency for storing backup data even if the model is changed. The backup data may be stored at the start address set in. For this reason, it is possible to simplify the program at the time of storing the backup data, and it is possible to reduce the man-hour for developing the program. Similarly, since checksum data is also created for each program module, it is not necessary to maintain consistency for storing checksum data even if the model is changed, and the program for storing checksum data is simplified. Can reduce the man-hours for program development.

  In the slot machine 1 of the present embodiment, the main control unit 41 controls the progress of the game. A MAXBET switch 6, a start switch 7, and stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R are provided as operation switches. Of these operation switches, the start switch 7 is also used for setting value setting in a setting change state.

  The main control unit 41 detects these operation switches in a switch input determination process executed during a timer interrupt process (main) executed by interrupting at regular time intervals.

  The main control unit 41 executes a start-up process when power is turned on, and an interrupt is permitted at the end of the start-up process. Thereafter, a timer interrupt process (main) is executed at regular intervals. When the main control unit 41 can return to the state before the power interruption, a return command is transmitted to the sub-control unit 91 before interruption is permitted in the startup process. Further, if the main control unit 41 cannot return to the state before the power interruption due to an abnormality in the data stored in the RAM 41c, an error command indicating a RAM abnormality is issued before the interruption is permitted in the startup process. Sent to. If the setting key switch 37 is on and the RAM 41c is initialized and does not return to the state before the power interruption, it indicates that the setting is being changed before the interruption is permitted in the startup process. A setting change command is transmitted to the sub-control unit 91. Of the commands sent in the start-up process, the return command specifies that the main control unit 41 returns to the state before the power interruption, an error command indicating a RAM abnormality, and a setting change indicating that the setting is being changed. From the middle command, it is specified that the main control unit 41 does not return to the state before the power interruption.

  Next, the control of the effect performed by the sub-control unit 91 based on the command transmitted from the main control unit 41 to the effect control board 90 will be described.

  When the sub control unit 91 receives a command from the main control unit 41, the sub control unit 91 executes a command reception interrupt process. In the command reception interrupt process, the command acquired from the command transmission line is stored in the reception buffer provided in the RAM 91c.

  The reception buffer is provided with an area capable of storing a maximum of 16 commands so that a plurality of commands can be accumulated.

  In the timer interrupt process (sub), the sub-control unit 91 determines whether or not an unprocessed command is stored in the reception buffer. If an unprocessed command is stored, the sub-control unit 91 is the earliest. The control pattern table stored in the ROM 91b is referred to based on the command received in the stage, and the liquid crystal display 51, effect effect LED 52, speakers 53, 54, reel LED 55, etc. are controlled based on the control contents registered in the control pattern table. Performs output control of various rendering devices.

  In the control pattern table, the display pattern of the liquid crystal display 51 corresponding to the type of command, the lighting mode of the lighting effect LED 52, the output mode of the speakers 53 and 54, the lighting mode of the reel LED, etc. Control patterns of these effect devices are registered, and when the sub-control unit 91 receives a command, the sub-control unit 91 stores the control patterns registered corresponding to the effect patterns set in the RAM 91c in the game of the control pattern table. Among these, the control pattern corresponding to the type of the received command is referred to, and the output control of the rendering device is performed based on the control pattern. Thereby, the production according to the production pattern and the progress of the game is executed.

  If the sub-control unit 91 receives a new command during the execution of an effect triggered by the reception of a certain command, the sub-control unit 91 stops the effect based on the control pattern being executed and sets the newly received command. An effect based on the corresponding control pattern is executed. In other words, even if the production is not finished to the end, when a new command is received, the production that was being executed is canceled and a new command is received unless the received new command is not a command that triggers a new production. An effect based on the command is executed.

  When the internal winning command is received, the effect pattern is selected at a selection rate corresponding to the result of the internal lottery indicated by the internal winning command, and is set in the RAM 91c. The selection rate of the effect pattern is registered in the effect table stored in the ROM 91b, and when the sub control unit 91 receives the internal winning command, the sub control unit 91 stores the effect pattern in the effect table according to the result of the internal lottery indicated by the internal winning command. With reference to the registered selection rate, one of the effect patterns is selected from a plurality of types of effect patterns according to the selection rate, and the selected effect pattern is set in the RAM 91c as the effect pattern of the game. Even if the same command is received, a different control pattern is selected depending on the effect pattern selected when the internal winning command is received. As a result, different effects may be performed depending on the effect pattern.

  In the slot machine 1 of the present embodiment, when a predetermined symbol combination is aligned on the winning line LN, a winning is achieved. The types of winning combinations are determined according to the state of the game, but can be broadly divided into special roles with transition to big bonus and regular bonus, small roles with payout of medals, and setting of bet number. There is a re-player who can start the next game without needing.

  The big bonus may be indicated as BB and the regular bonus may be indicated as RB. In some cases, a big bonus or a regular bonus is simply referred to as a bonus. In order for winning of each combination determined according to the gaming state to occur, it is necessary to set a winning flag in the RAM 41c to win the internal lottery and allow winning of the winning combination.

  FIG. 15 to FIG. 17 are diagrams for explaining the types of winning combinations, symbol combinations of winning combinations, and technical matters related to winning combinations. FIG. 18 is a diagram for explaining the gaming state controlled by the main control unit 41 and the transition of RT.

  As shown in FIG. 18, the slot machine according to the present embodiment is controlled as a gaming state in one of a normal gaming state, an inside 1, an inside 2, RB, and BB (RB). In addition, RT is a replay time in which the probability of a replay is increased. In a normal gaming state (hereinafter, the normal gaming state is referred to as normal), any type of RT (replay) from RT0 to RT4 is used. Time).

  Among the winning combinations, the special combination includes 6 types of bonuses such as big bonuses 1 to 4 and regular bonuses 1 and 2.

  BB1 is awarded when the combination of “Black 7-Black 7-Black 7” is aligned on the winning line LN. BB2 is awarded when the combination of “network 7-network 7-network 7” is aligned on the winning line LN. BB3 is awarded when the combination of “white 7-white 7-white 7” is aligned on the winning line LN. BB4 is awarded when the combination of “BAR-BAR-BAR” is aligned on the winning line LN. BB4 is awarded when the combination of “black 7-white 7-net 7” is aligned on the winning line LN.

  When winning one of BB1 to BB4, the game shifts to a big bonus that is controlled by the game every time during the BB regular bonus (hereinafter referred to as BBRB).

  The big bonus generated due to the winning of any one of BB1 to BB4 is terminated on condition that 316 or more medals have been paid out.

  RB1 wins when the winning line LN has a combination of “net 7-net 7-black 7”. RB2 is awarded when the combination of “white 7-white 7-black 7” is aligned on the winning line LN.

  When winning one of RB1 and RB2, a transition is made to a regular bonus (hereinafter referred to as RB).

  The regular bonus generated due to the winning of either RB1 or RB2 ends on the condition that any winning combination has won 6 times or 12 games have been consumed.

  As shown in FIG. 18, until one of BB1, BB3, or RB2 is won internally, the prize is controlled to 1 / RT0, and one of BB2, BB4, or RB1 is won internally. Until this is done, the internal control is controlled to 2 · RT0. In addition, as shown in FIG. 17, after the big bonus or regular bonus (collectively referred to as a bonus) is completed, the control is performed to normal / RT4.

  Even if one of BB1 to BB4, RB1, or RB2 is won in an internal lottery to be described later, if the stop switches 8L, 8C, and 8R are not operated at an appropriate timing to enable winning of these roles, these I won't win a role. The symbols composing BB1 to BB4, RB1, and RB2 ("black 7", "white 7", and "net 7") are arranged within 5 frames on each of the left reel 2L, middle reel 2C, and right reel 2R. This is because it has not been done.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 15, the small combination among the winning combinations will be described. Among the winning roles, there are middle bells, right-down bells, upper bells 1-8, middle watermelons, right-down watermelons, upper watermelons, lower cherries, middle cherries, one piece, right-up bells, right-up bevels, Includes a rising rivet.

  For example, the middle bell is awarded when the combination of “bell-bell-bell” is arranged on the winning line LN, and eight medals are paid out.

  Here, referring to FIG. 3, the bells are arranged within 5 frames in each of the left reel 2L, the middle reel 2C, and the right reel 2R. For this reason, it can be said that, in principle, when a middle bell is won in an internal lottery to be described later, it can be said that a winning can be made regardless of the operation timing of the stop switches 8L to 8R.

  Below, right down bell, upper bell 1-8, middle watermelon, right lower watermelon, upper watermelon, lower cherry, middle cherry, one-piece, right up bell, right up bevel, right up rebebe are also shown in FIG. When the combinations of the symbols shown are complete, a prize is awarded and the payout number of medals shown in FIG. 15 is paid out. As shown in FIG. 3, the right-down bell, the right-up bell, the right-up bevel, and the right-up bevel are arranged within 5 frames, so that a prize is won regardless of the operation timing of the stop switches 8L to 8R. Can be made, but the upper bell 1-8, middle watermelon, right-down watermelon, upper watermelon, lower cherry, middle cherry, 1 piece role, because there are places where the configuration symbol is not arranged within 5 frames, If a stop switch corresponding to a reel whose symbol is not arranged within 5 frames is not operated at an appropriate timing, no prize is won.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 16, the re-game player among the winning combinations will be described. Among the winning combinations, the replaying role includes normal replay, lower stage replay, fall replay, promotion replays 1 and 2, special replay, and SP (special) replay.

  For example, the normal replay is performed when a combination of “Replay-Replay-Replay”, “Replay-Replay-Plum”, “Plum-Replay-Replay”, and “Plum-Replay-Plum” is arranged on the winning line LN. Become. Replays and plums are arranged within 5 frames in each of the left reel 2L, middle reel 2C, and right reel 2R. Therefore, as a general rule, it can be said that the normal replay is a role that can be won regardless of the operation timing of the stop switches 8L to 8R if the winning is made.

  Hereinafter, the lower replay, the fall replay, the promoted replays 1 and 2, the special replay, and the SP (special) replay are similarly awarded when the symbol combinations shown in FIG. Also, as shown in FIG. 3, each of these replays is arranged within 5 frames, so that if it is elected, it can be awarded regardless of the operation timing of the stop switches 8L to 8R. It can be said.

  As shown in FIG. 18, after winning the fall replay in normal / RT0, it is controlled to RT1.

  In addition, after winning a promotion replay (promotion replay 1 or promotion replay 2) in normal / RT1, it is controlled to normal / RT0. As will be described later, the promotion replay is set not to win independently in the internal lottery in normal / RT2, normal / RT3, and normal / RT4. Further, when the special combination and the promotion replay are won at the same time in the internal lottery in the normal / RT2, the normal / RT3, and the normal / RT4, it is controlled to the internal 1 / RT0 or the internal 2 / RT0 at that time. For this reason, no promotion replay is won in normal / RT2, normal / RT3, or normal / RT4. As a result, it is configured not to be controlled from normal / RT2, normal / RT3, normal / RT4 to normal / RT0, and only when it is normal / RT1 is promoted replay, and only from normal / RT1 is normal / RT0. It is comprised so that it may be controlled.

  In addition, after winning the special replay in normal / RT1 and normal / RT3, it is controlled to normal / RT2. As will be described later, the special replay is set so as not to be won independently in the internal lottery in the normal / RT1 and normal / RT4. Further, when the special combination and special replay are won at the same time in the internal / RT1 or normal / RT4 internal lottery, the internal 1 / RT0 or the internal 2 / RT0 is controlled at that time. Therefore, the special replay is not won in normal / RT1 and normal / RT4. As a result, it is configured not to be controlled from normal / RT1, normal / RT4 to normal / RT2, and a special replay is awarded only in normal / RT0, normal / RT3, and from normal / RT0 / normal / RT3. Only normal and RT2 are controlled. When the special replay is won in the normal / RT2, the normal / RT2 is maintained.

  As shown in FIG. 18, after winning the SP replay in normal / RT2, control is performed in normal / RT3. As will be described later, the SP replay is set not to win independently in the internal lottery in the normal / RT0, normal / RT1, and normal / RT4. Further, when the special combination and SP replay are won at the same time in the internal lottery in the normal / RT0, normal / RT1, and normal / RT4, the internal one / RT0 or the internal two / RT0 is controlled at that time. Therefore, the SP replay is not won in the normal / RT0, normal / RT1, and normal / RT4. As a result, normal / RT0, normal / RT1, and normal / RT4 are not controlled to normal / RT3, and SP replay is awarded only when normal / RT2 and normal / RT3 only from normal / RT2. It is comprised so that it may be controlled. If the special replay is won in the normal / RT3, the normal / RT3 is maintained.

  Next, the transition outcome will be described with reference to FIG. As shown in FIG. 17, the transition items are composed of 20 types of combinations such as “Replay-Orange-Bell”. In the present embodiment, left bells 1 to 4, middle bells 1 to 4, and right bells 1 to 4, which will be described later, are elected, and the reels other than the reels that serve as winning conditions for the middle bell are set as the first stop and are elected. When the bell is missed, the above-mentioned transition outcome is aligned with the winning line LN.

  As shown in FIG. 18, normal / RT0, normal / RT2, normal / RT3, and normal / RT4 are controlled to normal / RT1 after the transition points are aligned with the winning line LN. In addition, when the transition outcome is aligned with the winning line LN in the normal / RT1, the normal / RT1 is maintained.

  Next, a combination of lottery target combinations that are read out as lottery target combinations for each gaming state will be described. In the present embodiment, the gaming state is the normal gaming state, the inside 1 (BB1, BB3, RB2 is elected), or the inside 2 (BB2, BB4, RB1 is elected) The winning combination and its winning probability differ depending on whether it is a BB (RB) or RB. Furthermore, if the gaming state is the normal gaming state, at least one of the re-game player and the winning probability to be subject to the internal lottery differs depending on the types of RT0 to RT4. As will be described later as a lottery target combination, a plurality of winning combinations can be read simultaneously and can be won in duplicate. In the following, “+” is indicated between winning combinations to indicate that the winning combination is simultaneously read out in the internal lottery.

  When normal / RT0, BB1, BB1 + weak watermelon, BB1 + strong watermelon, BB1 + weak cherry, BB1 + strong cherry, BB1 + middle cherries, BB1 + 1 roll, BB1 + normal replay, BB1 + fall replay, BB1 + promoted replay, BB1 + special replay, BB1 + SP Replay, BB2, BB2 + weak watermelon, BB2 + strong watermelon, BB2 + weak cherry, BB2 + strong cherry, BB2 + middle cherries, BB2 + one piece, BB2 + normal replay, BB2 + tumble replay, BB2 + promoted replay, BB2 + special replay, BB3, BB3 + weak watermelon, BB3 + strong watermelon, BB3 + weak cherry, BB3 + strong cherry, BB3 + middle cherries, BB3 + 1 sheet, BB3 + normal replay, BB3 + tumble replay, BB3 + promoted replay, BB3 + Especially replay, BB4, BB4 + middle cherries, BB4 + 1 sheets, BB4 + special replay, RB1, RB1 + strong watermelon, RB1 + weak cherries, RB1 + strong cherry, RB1 + 1 sheets, RB2, RB2 + weak watermelon, RB2 + strong watermelon, RB2 + weak cherry, RB2 + Strong cherry, RB2 + 1 role, bell, left bell 1, left bell 2, left bell 3, left bell 4, middle bell 1, middle bell 2, middle bell 3, middle bell 4, right bell 1, right bell 2, right Bell 3, Right bell 4, Weak watermelon, Strong watermelon, Weak cherry, Strong cherry, Middle cherries, 1 part, Replay GR11, Replay GR12, Replay GR13, Replay GR14, Replay GR15, Replay GR16, Replay GR21, Replay GR22, Replay GR23, Replay GR24, and Replay GR25 are internal lottery pairs The role.

  In addition, a weak watermelon is an upper stage watermelon + right-down watermelon. That is, when the upper watermelon wins, it can be recognized that it is a weak watermelon. A strong watermelon is a middle-stage watermelon + right-down watermelon. That is, when the middle stage watermelon wins, it can be recognized that it is a strong watermelon. A weak cherry is a lower cherry alone, and a strong cherry is a lower cherry plus one piece. In the weak cherries, the combination of “BAR-BAR-BAR” in the middle tier can be recognized as weak cherries, while the cherry stops at the lower tier of the left reel 2L and the BAR-BAR in the middle tier. It can be recognized that it is a strong cherry when the combination of “−BAR” is prepared.

  The promotion replay is promotion replay 1 + promotion replay 2. The bell is a middle bell + a downward-sloping bell. Left bell 1 is right falling bell 5 + upper bell 5 + upper bell 8, left bell 2 is right falling bell + upper bell 6 + upper bell 7, and left bell 3 is right falling bell + upper bell 2 + upper bell 3, left bell 4 is right falling bell + upper bell 2 + upper bell 4. The left bells 1 to 4 are also simply called left bells. The middle bell 1 is the middle bell + the upper bell 2 + the upper bell 5, the middle bell 2 is the middle bell + the upper bell 1 + the upper bell 6, and the middle bell 3 is the middle bell + the upper bell 4 + the upper bell. 7 and the middle bell 4 is the middle bell + the upper bell 3 + the upper bell 8. The middle bells 1 to 4 are also simply called middle bells. The right bell 1 is the middle bell + the upper bell 3 + the upper bell 5, the right bell 2 is the middle bell + the upper bell 1 + the upper bell 7, and the right bell 3 is the middle bell + the upper bell 4 + the upper bell. 6 and the right bell 4 is the middle bell + the upper bell 2 + the upper bell 8. The right bells 1 to 4 are also simply called right bells. The left bells 1 to 4, the middle bells 1 to 4, and the right bells 1 to 4 are also simply referred to as push order bells.

  Replay GR11 is a fall replay + promotion replay 2, replay GR12 is a fall replay + promotion replay 2 + normal replay, replay GR13 is a fall replay + promotion replay 1, and replay GR14 is a fall Replay + promotion replay 1 + normal replay, replay GR15 is fall replay + promotion replay 1 + promotion replay 2, and replay GR16 is fall replay + promotion replay 1 + promotion replay 2 + normal replay.

  Replay GR21 is tumble replay + special replay, replay GR22 is tumble replay + special replay + normal replay, replay GR23 is tumble replay + special replay + lower replay, and replay GR24 is Tumble replay + special replay + normal replay + lower replay. Replay GR25 is tumble replay + special replay + promotion replay 1.

  When it is normal / RT1, BB1, BB1 + weak watermelon, BB1 + strong watermelon, BB1 + weak cherry, BB1 + strong cherry, BB1 + middle cherries, BB1 + 1 sheet, BB1 + normal replay, BB1 + fall replay, BB1 + promoted replay, BB1 + special replay, BB1 + SP Replay, BB2, BB2 + weak watermelon, BB2 + strong watermelon, BB2 + weak cherry, BB2 + strong cherry, BB2 + middle cherries, BB2 + one piece, BB2 + normal replay, BB2 + tumble replay, BB2 + promoted replay, BB2 + special replay, BB3, BB3 + weak watermelon, BB3 + strong watermelon, BB3 + weak cherry, BB3 + strong cherry, BB3 + middle cherries, BB3 + 1 sheet, BB3 + normal replay, BB3 + tumble replay, BB3 + promoted replay, BB3 + Especially replay, BB4, BB4 + middle cherries, BB4 + 1 sheets, BB4 + special replay, RB1, RB1 + strong watermelon, RB1 + weak cherries, RB1 + strong cherry, RB1 + 1 sheets, RB2, RB2 + weak watermelon, RB2 + strong watermelon, RB2 + weak cherry, RB2 + Strong cherry, RB2 + 1 role, bell, left bell 1, left bell 2, left bell 3, left bell 4, middle bell 1, middle bell 2, middle bell 3, middle bell 4, right bell 1, right bell 2, right Bell 3, right bell 4, weak watermelon, strong watermelon, weak cherry, strong cherry, middle tier cherry, 1 part, normal replay, replay GR1, replay GR2, replay GR3, replay GR4, replay GR5, replay GR6 are internal lottery It becomes a target role.

  Replay GR1 is normal replay + promotion replay 1, replay GR2 is normal replay + promotion replay 1 + promotion replay 2, replay GR3 is normal replay + promotion replay 1 + lower replay, and replay GR4. Is normal replay + promotion replay 1 + promotion replay 2 + lower replay, replay GR5 is normal replay + promotion replay 2, and replay GR6 is normal replay + promotion replay 2 + lower replay.

  When normal / RT2, BB1, BB1 + weak watermelon, BB1 + strong watermelon, BB1 + weak cherry, BB1 + strong cherry, BB1 + middle cherries, BB1 + 1 sheet, BB1 + normal replay, BB1 + fall replay, BB1 + promoted replay, BB1 + special replay, BB1 + SP Replay, BB2, BB2 + weak watermelon, BB2 + strong watermelon, BB2 + weak cherry, BB2 + strong cherry, BB2 + middle cherries, BB2 + one piece, BB2 + normal replay, BB2 + tumble replay, BB2 + promoted replay, BB2 + special replay, BB3, BB3 + weak watermelon, BB3 + strong watermelon, BB3 + weak cherry, BB3 + strong cherry, BB3 + middle cherries, BB3 + 1 sheet, BB3 + normal replay, BB3 + tumble replay, BB3 + promoted replay, BB3 + Especially replay, BB4, BB4 + middle cherries, BB4 + 1 sheets, BB4 + special replay, RB1, RB1 + strong watermelon, RB1 + weak cherries, RB1 + strong cherry, RB1 + 1 sheets, RB2, RB2 + weak watermelon, RB2 + strong watermelon, RB2 + weak cherry, RB2 + Strong cherry, RB2 + 1 role, bell, left bell 1, left bell 2, left bell 3, left bell 4, middle bell 1, middle bell 2, middle bell 3, middle bell 4, right bell 1, right bell 2, right Bell 3, right bell 4, weak watermelon, strong watermelon, weak cherry, strong cherry, middle tier cherry, 1 part, normal replay, replay GR31, replay GR32, replay GR33, replay GR34, replay GR35, replay GR36 are internal lottery It becomes a target role.

  Replay GR31 is special replay + SP replay + normal replay, replay GR32 is special replay + SP replay + normal replay + falling replay, and replay GR33 is special replay + SP replay + lower replay, and replay GR34. Is special replay + SP replay + lower replay + falling replay, replay GR35 is special replay + SP replay + normal replay + lower replay, and replay GR36 is special replay + SP replay + normal replay + lower replay + It is a fall replay.

  When normal / RT3, BB1, BB1 + weak watermelon, BB1 + strong watermelon, BB1 + weak cherry, BB1 + strong cherry, BB1 + middle tier, BB1 + 1 double role, BB1 + normal replay, BB1 + fall replay, BB1 + promoted replay, BB1 + special replay, BB1 + SP Replay, BB2, BB2 + weak watermelon, BB2 + strong watermelon, BB2 + weak cherry, BB2 + strong cherry, BB2 + middle cherries, BB2 + one piece, BB2 + normal replay, BB2 + tumble replay, BB2 + promoted replay, BB2 + special replay, BB3, BB3 + weak watermelon, BB3 + strong watermelon, BB3 + weak cherry, BB3 + strong cherry, BB3 + middle cherries, BB3 + 1 sheet, BB3 + normal replay, BB3 + tumble replay, BB3 + promoted replay, BB3 + Especially replay, BB4, BB4 + middle cherries, BB4 + 1 sheets, BB4 + special replay, RB1, RB1 + strong watermelon, RB1 + weak cherries, RB1 + strong cherry, RB1 + 1 sheets, RB2, RB2 + weak watermelon, RB2 + strong watermelon, RB2 + weak cherry, RB2 + Strong cherry, RB2 + 1 role, bell, left bell 1, left bell 2, left bell 3, left bell 4, middle bell 1, middle bell 2, middle bell 3, middle bell 4, right bell 1, right bell 2, right Bell 3, right bell 4, weak watermelon, strong watermelon, weak cherry, strong cherry, middle tier cherry, 1 part, replay GR31, replay GR32, replay GR33, replay GR34, replay GR35, replay GR36, SP replay are internal lottery It becomes a target role.

  When normal / RT4, BB1, BB1 + weak watermelon, BB1 + strong watermelon, BB1 + weak cherry, BB1 + strong cherry, BB1 + middle cherries, BB1 + 1 roll, BB1 + normal replay, BB1 + fall replay, BB1 + promoted replay, BB1 + special replay, BB1 + SP Replay, BB2, BB2 + weak watermelon, BB2 + strong watermelon, BB2 + weak cherry, BB2 + strong cherry, BB2 + middle cherries, BB2 + one piece, BB2 + normal replay, BB2 + tumble replay, BB2 + promoted replay, BB2 + special replay, BB3, BB3 + weak watermelon, BB3 + strong watermelon, BB3 + weak cherry, BB3 + strong cherry, BB3 + middle cherries, BB3 + 1 sheet, BB3 + normal replay, BB3 + tumble replay, BB3 + promoted replay, BB3 + Especially replay, BB4, BB4 + middle cherries, BB4 + 1 sheets, BB4 + special replay, RB1, RB1 + strong watermelon, RB1 + weak cherries, RB1 + strong cherry, RB1 + 1 sheets, RB2, RB2 + weak watermelon, RB2 + strong watermelon, RB2 + weak cherry, RB2 + Strong cherry, RB2 + 1 role, bell, left bell 1, left bell 2, left bell 3, left bell 4, middle bell 1, middle bell 2, middle bell 3, middle bell 4, right bell 1, right bell 2, right Bell 3, right bell 4, weak watermelon, strong watermelon, weak cherry, strong cherry, middle cherries, one-piece combination, and normal replay are targeted for internal lottery.

  When internal center 1 · RT0, internal center 2 · RT0, bell, left bell 1, left bell 2, left bell 3, left bell 4, center bell 1, center bell 2, center bell 3, center bell 4, right Bell 1, Right bell 2, Right bell 3, Right bell 4, Weak watermelon, Strong watermelon, Weak cherry, Strong cherry, Middle cherry, Single role, Normal replay, Lower replay, SP replay, Tumble replay, Promotion replay, Special Replay is the target for internal lottery.

  When it is BBRB · RT0, the weak cherry and all roles are subject to internal lottery, and when it is RB · RT0, all roles, RB bell 1, RB bell 2, and RB bell 3 are subject to internal lottery.

  All roles are all small roles other than right-up bevel, ie middle bell + right-down bell + upper bell 1 + upper bell 2 + upper bell 3 + upper bell 4 + upper bell 5 + upper bell 6 + upper bell 7 + upper bell 8 + middle watermelon + Lower right watermelon + upper watermelon + lower cherry + middle cherries + 1 piece + right rising bell + right rising rivet.

  The RB bell 1 is a right-up bell + right-up bevel, the RB bell 2 is a right-up bell + right-up bevel + right-up beryl, and the RB bell 3 is all small roles, that is, the middle stage bell. + Downward bell + Upper bell 1 + Upper bell 2 + Upper bell 3 + Upper bell 4 + Upper bell 5 + Upper bell 6 + Upper bell 7 + Upper bell 8 + Middle watermelon + Lower watermelon + Upper watermelon + Lower cherry + Middle cherry + Single role + Upright Bell + bevel up to the right + bevel up to the right.

  Also, in normal / RT0-4, etc., weak watermelon, strong watermelon, weak cherry, strong cherry, middle cherries, single role, normal replay, fall replay, promotion that can be elected simultaneously with any of BB1-BB4, RB1, RB2 The replay and SP replay judgment values are read separately from the bonus in internal 1 · RT0 and internal 2 · RT0, respectively, strong watermelon, weak cherry, strong cherry, middle cherries, one-piece role, normal Since it is added to Replay, Tumble Replay, Promotion Replay, and SP Replay, the winning probability of each of Strong Watermelon, Weak Cherry, Strong Cherry, Middle Cherry, Single Role, Normal Replay, Tumble Replay, Promotion Replay, and SP Replay is constant. It is secured to be.

  In this way, the internal lottery role varies depending on whether the gaming state is the normal gaming state, 1 or 2 inside, BB (RB), or RB, and BB (RB) In RB, the internal lottery is performed using a lottery table in which the winning probability of the small role is set higher than that in the normal gaming state and inside.

  Also, when the game state is 1 or 2 in the inside, the subject of the internal lottery does not change depending on whether it is 1 in the inside or 2 in the inside, but it is 1 in the inside or inside The internal lottery is performed using a lottery table in which the winning probabilities of the target re-gamer are different.

  In addition, when the gaming state is the normal gaming state, the re-game player to be subject to the internal lottery differs depending on whether it is RT0-4, and depending on whether it is RT0-4 An internal lottery is performed using a lottery table with different re-game players and their winning probabilities.

  As will be described in detail later, in the present embodiment, when a plurality of types of small roles (bells) and a plurality of types of replaying players are simultaneously elected, the type of the winning small role or replaying role and the stop Control is performed so that the symbol combination of the small combination and the combination of the re-playing combination determined according to the pressing order of the switches 8L, 8C, and 8R are aligned and stopped on the winning line LN within a drawing range of up to four frames. Accordingly, the types of the small combination and re-playing combination to be won simultaneously will be specifically described with reference to FIG. 19 to FIG. 21. FIG. FIG. 20 shows reel control when a plurality of replays are won simultaneously, and FIG. 21 shows reel control when a plurality of small roles are won simultaneously.

  As shown in FIGS. 19 and 20, for example, when replay GR1 (normal replay + promotion replay 1) is won and a stop operation is performed in the order of left middle right, promoted replay among the replaying players who have won. Control is performed so that one combination is aligned with the winning line LN and stopped, and when a stop operation is performed in an order other than the left middle right, control is performed so that the combination of normal replays is aligned with the winning line LN and stopped.

  Similarly, when the replays GR2 to 6 are stopped in a predetermined order, the combination of the promoted replay 1 or the promoted replay 2 among the selected re-playing players is stopped in alignment with the winning line LN. If the stop operation is performed in an order other than the predetermined order, control is performed so that the combination of the normal replays is aligned with the winning line LN and stopped.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the symbols constituting the promotion replay 1, the promotion replay 2, and the normal replay are arranged at intervals of 5 frames or less on all of the left reel 2L, the middle reel 2C, and the right reel 2R. The reel control is performed so that the promotion replay 1, the promotion replay 2 or the normal replay always wins regardless of the stop operation timing of the stop switches 8L to 8R according to the operation order.

  Therefore, in the normal / RT1 where the replays GR1 to 6 are the targets of the internal lottery, if any of the replays GR1 to GR6 is elected, the promoted replay wins with a probability of 1/6, and the normal / RT0 Will be migrated.

  Similarly, when the replays GR11 to 16 are stopped in a predetermined order, the combination of the promoted replay 1 or the promoted replay 2 among the selected re-playing players is aligned with the winning line LN and stopped. If the stop operation is performed in an order other than the predetermined order, control is performed so that the combination of falling replays is aligned with the winning line LN and stopped.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the symbols constituting the promotion replay 1, the promotion replay 2, and the fall replay are arranged at intervals of 5 frames or less on all of the left reel 2L, the middle reel 2C, and the right reel 2R. The reel control is performed so that the promotion replay 1, the promotion replay 2 or the fall replay always wins regardless of the stop operation timing of the stop switches 8L to 8R according to the operation order.

  Therefore, in the normal / RT0 where the replay GRs 11-16 are subject to internal lottery, if any of the replays GR11-16 is elected, the promoted replay wins with a probability of 1/6 and the normal / RT0 is maintained. On the other hand, the fall replay wins with a probability of 5/6 and shifts to normal RT1.

  In addition, in the replays GR21 to GR25, when a stop operation is performed in a predetermined order, the special replay combination among the selected replay players is controlled so as to be aligned with the winning line LN and stopped. When stop operations are performed in order, control is performed so that the combination of falling replays is aligned with the winning line LN and stopped.

  As shown in FIG. 3, since the symbols constituting the special replay and the fall replay are arranged at intervals of 5 frames or less in all of the left reel 2L, the middle reel 2C, and the right reel 2R, Regardless of the stop operation timing of the stop switches 8L to 8R, the reel control is performed so that the special replay or the fall replay is always won.

  For this reason, if one of the replays GR21 to 25 is elected in the normal / RT0 in which the replays GR21 to 25 are the targets of the internal lottery, the special replay wins with a probability of 1/5 and shifts to the normal / RT2. On the other hand, the fall replay wins with a probability of 4/5 and shifts to normal RT1.

  Further, in the replay GR31 to 36, when the stop operation is performed in a predetermined order (left push), the control for stopping the combination of the SP replay or the normal replay among the selected replay players in the winning line LN is stopped. If the stop operation is performed in an order other than the predetermined order, the special replay combination is controlled to be aligned with the winning line LN and stopped.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the symbols constituting the SP replay, special replay, and normal replay are arranged at intervals of 5 frames or less on all of the left reel 2L, the middle reel 2C, and the right reel 2R. Accordingly, the reel control is performed so that the SP replay, special replay, or normal replay always wins regardless of the stop operation timing of the stop switches 8L to 8R.

  Therefore, in the normal / RT2 where the replay GRs 31 to 36 are the targets of the internal lottery, if any of the replay GRs 31 to 36 is won, the SP replay is won with a probability of 1/6 and the process proceeds to the normal / RT3. On the other hand, the normal replay or special replay is won with a probability of 5/6 and the normal / RT2 is maintained. In addition, when SP replay wins as will be described later, one or more navigation stocks that are advantageous to the player will always be given, so if one of the replay GRs 31 to 36 is won in normal / RT2 SP Replay wins with a probability of 1/6, and one or more navigation stocks are given, and it is easy to win SP replays, that is, there is a high possibility that navigation stocks will be given.

  In addition, in normal / RT3 where the replay GRs 31 to 36 are the targets of the internal lottery, if one of the replays GR31 to 36 is won, the SP replay wins with a probability of 1/6 and one navigation stock described later On the other hand, the normal replay wins with a probability of 1/6 and normal RT3 is maintained, and the special replay wins with a probability of 4/6 and shifts to normal RT2.

  As shown in FIGS. 19 and 21, when the left bells 1 to 5 are elected and the stop operation is performed by pressing the left button, the combination of the right-down bells among the selected small roles is aligned with the winning line LN and stopped. When the stop operation is performed by middle press or right press, the control is performed so that any combination of the upper bells 2 to 8 or the shift outcome is aligned with the pay line LN.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the configuration symbol of the right-down bell is arranged at intervals of 5 frames or less on all reels, and when the left bells 1 to 4 are elected, a stop operation is performed by pushing left. In this case, regardless of the timing of the stop operation, control is always performed so that the right lowering bell is aligned with the winning line LN, while the symbols constituting the upper bells 1 to 8 are at intervals of 5 frames or more on all reels. Even if the left bells 1 to 4 are elected because there are places that are arranged, if the stop operation is performed by pressing the middle or right, it becomes the drawing range of the constituent symbols of the elected upper bells 1 to 8 If the stop operation is not performed at an appropriate timing, the winning upper bell cannot be aligned with the winning line LN, and in this case, the control is performed so that the transition outcome is aligned with the winning line LN.

  In addition, when the middle bells 1 to 4 are elected and the stop operation is performed by pressing the middle bell, the combination of the middle bells among the selected small roles is controlled to be aligned with the winning line LN and stopped, and left or right pressed. When the stop operation is performed at, control is performed so that any combination of the upper bells 1 to 8 or the transition outcome is aligned with the winning line LN and stopped.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the configuration symbols of the middle bell are arranged at intervals of 5 frames or less on all reels, and when the middle bell 1 to 4 is elected, when the stop operation is performed by middle push Regardless of the timing of the stop operation, control is always performed so that the middle bell is aligned with the winning line LN, while the symbols constituting the upper bells 1 to 8 are arranged at intervals of 5 frames or more on all reels. Even if the middle bells 1 to 4 are elected, if the stop operation is performed by pressing left or right, an appropriate range that will be drawn in the constituent symbols of the elected upper bells 1 to 8 will be used. If the stop operation is not performed at the timing, the selected upper bell cannot be aligned with the winning line LN, and in this case, control is performed so that the shift outcome is aligned with the winning line LN.

  If right bells 1 to 4 are elected and stop operation is performed by pressing right, control is performed to stop the combination of middle bells in the selected small role in line with winning line LN, and stop by pressing left or middle. When an operation is performed, control is performed to stop any combination of the upper bells 1 to 8 or the transition outcome in line with the pay line LN.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the configuration symbols of the middle bell are arranged at intervals of 5 frames or less on all reels, and when the right bell 1 to 4 is elected, when the stop operation is performed by pushing right However, regardless of the timing of the stop operation, control is always performed so that the middle bell is aligned with the winning line LN, while the symbols constituting the upper bells 1 to 8 are arranged at intervals of 5 frames or more on all reels. Therefore, even if the right bells 1 to 4 are elected, if the stop operation is performed by left-pressing or middle-pressing, an appropriate drawing range of the constituent symbols of the elected upper bells 1 to 8 is appropriate. If the stop operation is not performed at the timing, the selected upper bell cannot be aligned with the winning line LN, and in this case, control is performed so that the shift outcome is aligned with the winning line LN.

  Thus, in this embodiment, when any of the left bell, middle bell, right bell, that is, the push order bell is won, the stop operation is performed in a specific operation mode according to the type of winning combination. While the right-down bell or middle bell always wins, if the stop operation is performed in an operation mode other than the specific operation mode according to the type of winning combination, the upper bell is aligned at 1/4, but 3/4 In some cases, the upper bells are not aligned and the transition outcomes are aligned.

  For this reason, at the time of winning the push order bell, the expected value of the number of medals to be paid out can be changed depending on whether or not it is operated in a specific operation mode according to the type of winning combination. In other words, even if one of the push order bells is won, it is impossible to intentionally select a specific operation mode unless the type is known. Although a medal can be surely obtained by winning a prize, the upper bell can be won only by 1/4 at a ratio of 2/3, and a medal cannot be surely obtained.

  When RB bell 1 (Right-up bell + Right-up Rivebe) is elected and a stop operation is performed by left-pressing, control is performed so that the combination of right-up bells among the selected small roles is aligned with the winning line LN and stopped. If a stop operation is performed by middle pressing or right pressing, control is performed to align the combination of rising right ribs on the winning line LN and stop.

  If RB Bell 2 (Rising Right Bell + Right Rising Bevel + Right Rising Berri) is won and stopped by pressing the middle, the combination of the right rising bells of the selected small roles is aligned with the winning line LN and stopped. If the stop operation is performed by pressing the button to the left, the control is performed to stop the right-up bevel combination in alignment with the winning line LN. If the stop operation is performed by pressing the button to the right, Control is performed to stop the combination in line with the winning line LN.

  RB bell 3 (middle bell + lower right bell + upper bell 1 + upper bell 3 + upper bell 4 + upper bell 5 + upper bell 6 + upper bell 7 + upper bell 8 + middle watermelon + lower watermelon + upper watermelon + lower cherry + middle cherry +1 sheet role + right-up bell + right-up bevel + right-up bevel), and if the stop operation is performed by pressing right, the combination of right-up bells in the selected small role is aligned with the winning line LN Control to stop is performed, and when a stop operation is performed by left-pressing or middle-pressing, control is performed to stop the right-beveled bevel combination aligned with the winning line LN.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the configuration symbols of the right-up bell, the right-up bevel, and the right-up bevel are arranged at intervals of 5 frames or less on all reels, and when the RB bells 1 to 4 are won, Regardless of the timing of the stop operation, any combination of right-up bell, right-up ribebe and right-up bevel will be aligned on the winning line LN and 10 medals will be paid out, but at a rate of 1/3 Only "bell-bell-bell" combinations will be aligned to the right.

  Although not particularly shown, when a bell (middle bell + lower right bell) is won, a combination of “bell-bell-bell” is arranged on the winning line LN regardless of the stop order of the reels and the operation timing. To be controlled.

  Also, all roles (middle bell + lower right bell + upper bell 1 + upper bell 2 + upper bell 3 + upper bell 4 + upper bell 5 + upper bell 6 + upper bell 7 + upper bell 8 + middle watermelon + right lower watermelon + upper watermelon + lower cherry + middle (Cherry + 1 hand + right-up bell + right-up rivebe) is selected, the “bell-bell-bell” combination is controlled to rise to the right regardless of the reel stop order and operation timing. The

  In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 18, it is controlled to any one of the normal gaming state, internal 1, internal 2, RB, BB (RB), and in the normal gaming state, any of RT 0 to 4 is controlled. It is controlled.

  Normal / RT0 is normal / RT1 when a promotion replay wins (when either one of the replays GR1 to GR6 is elected and a stop operation is performed in the order in which the promotion replay wins), normal / RT1 or normal / RT2 Shifts when the game is completed due to the consumption of the specified number of games. Regardless of the number of games after the transition to normal / RT0, the normal / RT0 shifts to the normal / RT1 by winning the fall replay or stopping the transition, or to the normal / RT2 by winning the special replay It ends when the special role is elected and moves to the inside 1 or inside 2 inside.

  Normal / RT1 shifts when the transition is stopped at normal / RT0, normal / RT2, normal / RT3, normal / RT4, or when a fall replay wins at normal / RT0. The normal RT1 is such that the RT remaining game count is subtracted for each game, and the RT remaining game count becomes 0 after digesting the specified game count (1000G in the present embodiment). The process ends when the transition is made to normal / RT0 or the special role is won and the transition is made to internal 1 or internal 2.

  Normal / RT2 shifts when a special replay wins in normal / RT0 or normal / RT3. In normal / RT2, the number of remaining RT games is subtracted for each game, and when the prescribed number of games (30G in the present embodiment) is consumed, the number of remaining RT games becomes zero. Transition to normal / RT0, SP replay wins and transition to normal / RT3, transitional event stops and transition to normal / RT1, or special role is won and internal 1 or internal 2 It ends by moving to.

  Normal / RT3 shifts when SP replay wins in normal / RT2. Regardless of the number of games since the transition to normal / RT3, whether or not the normal / RT3 shifts to the normal / RT2 with the special replay winning, or the transition outcome stops and shifts to the normal / RT1 When the special role is elected and moves to the inside 1 or the inside 2, it ends.

  Normal / RT4 shifts to the end of BB (RB) and RB. Regardless of the number of games since the transition to the normal / RT4, the normal / RT4 stops the transition and moves to the RT1, or the special role is elected and moves to the internal 1 or the internal 2 To finish.

  The inside 1 shifts when BB1, BB3, RB2 among the special roles are won in the normal gaming state. Then, regardless of the number of games since the transition to the inside, the inside 1 finishes when the special role that triggered the transition to the inside 1 wins and shifts to BB (RB) or RB. .

  The inside 2 shifts when BB2, BB4, RB1 among special roles are won in the normal gaming state. Then, inside 2 ends regardless of the number of games since the transition to the inside, when the special combination that triggered the transition to the inside 2 wins and shifts to BB (RB) or RB. .

  RB shifts when RB1 or RB2 wins in 1 and 2 inside. And RB is complete | finished by digesting 12 games or winning 6 times.

  BB (RB) shifts when BB wins inside. Then, BB (RB) ends when the total number of medals paid out to BB (RB) exceeds the prescribed number, regardless of the number of games since the transition to BB (RB).

  Further, in the slot machine according to the present embodiment, when the gaming state is RT0 to 3, the sub-control unit 91 provides an assist time (hereinafter referred to as AT) that can execute a navigation effect in which an internal lottery result is notified. The production state can be controlled.

  Here, the gaming state and the transition status of RT according to the present embodiment will be described. As shown in FIG. 18, when RB or BB (RB) ends, the routine shifts to normal / RT4.

  In normal / RT4, when the transition is stopped, the transition is made to RT1, and when the special role is elected, the transition is made to internal 1 or internal 2 according to the type of the special role won.

  In normal / RT4, if any of the left bells 1-4, middle bells 1-4, right bells 1-4 is won and the small role cannot be won, the transitional outcome will stop. Therefore, any of the left bell 1-4, the middle bell 1-4, the right bell 1-4 can be won and the small role can be won in the normal RT 4 which has been shifted to after the end of RB or BB (RB) If not, the process moves to normal RT1.

  Normally, in RT1, the special role is not won, the promotion replay is not won, the specified number of games (1000G) is consumed, or the promotion replay wins, and the normal role is transferred to RT0, and the special role is won Depending on the type of the special role that has been won, the game moves to the inside 1 or 2 inside.

  Usually ・ Replay GR1-6 wins in RT1, and the promotion replay wins when the stop order is correct. Therefore, in normal ・ RT1, replay GR1-6 wins and corrects in the order of stop. It will shift to RT0.

  In normal / RT0, if the fall replay wins, or if the transition is stopped, it moves to normal / RT1, and if the special replay wins, it moves to normal / RT2, and the special role is won. Depending on the type of the special role, it shifts to 1 inside or 2 inside.

  Usually, the replays GR11 to 16 are won at RT0, the promotion replay wins when the stopping order is correct, and the fall replay wins when the answer is incorrect. In addition, when the replays GR21 to 25 are elected in normal / RT0 and the stop order is correct, the special replay is won, and if the answer is incorrect, the fall replay is won. In addition, in the case of normal / RT0, when any one of the left bells 1 to 4, the middle bells 1 to 4 and the right bells 1 to 4 is won and the small role cannot be won, the transitional outcome stops. Therefore, in normal / RT0, the replay GRs 21 to 25 are elected and the stop order is correct, so that the transition is made to normal / RT2 and the replay GRs 11 to 16 are elected and the stop order is incorrect or the left bell 1 -4, middle bell 1 to 4, right bell 1 to 4 are elected, and if it is not possible to win a small role, it will shift to normal · RT1.

  Normally, in RT2, the special role is not won, SP replay is not won, and the regular game number (30G) is used to move to normal RT0, and SP replay is won to move to normal RT3, When the special role is elected, it shifts to 1 inside or 2 inside depending on the kind of the special role won.

  In normal / RT2, the replay GRs 31 to 36 are won, and the SP replay wins when the stop order is correct. Further, in the normal / RT2, when any of the left bell 1 to 4, the middle bell 1 to 4 and the right bell 1 to 4 is won and the small role cannot be won, the transitional outcome stops. For this reason, in normal / RT2, the replays GR31 to 36 are elected, and when the stopping order is correct, the routine proceeds to normal / RT3, and any of the left bell 1 to 4, the middle bell 1 to 4, and the right bell 1 to 4 Will be transferred to normal / RT1 if the winning combination is not successful.

  In normal / RT3, when the special replay wins, it moves to RT2, and when the transition roll stops, it moves to normal / RT1, and the special role is elected. Transition to Medium 1 or Internal 2

  In normal / RT3, the replay GRs 31 to 36 are elected, the SP replay or the normal replay is won when the stop order is correct, and the special replay is won if the answer is incorrect. Further, in the normal / RT3, when any one of the left bells 1 to 4, the middle bells 1 to 4 and the right bells 1 to 4 is won and the small role cannot be won, the transitional outcome stops. For this reason, in normal / RT3, the replay GRs 31 to 36 are elected, and the stop order becomes incorrect, so the routine proceeds to normal / RT2, and the left bell 1 to 4, the middle bell 1 to 4, the right bell 1 to 4 If either of them wins and the small combination cannot be won, the routine will shift to RT1.

  In the inside 1 and 2, the special role that triggers the transition to the inside wins a transition to RB or BB (RB).

  Next, various control contents executed by the sub-control unit 91 in the present embodiment will be described below with reference to FIGS.

  When the system reset signal is input from the reset circuit 95, the sub control unit 91 performs the startup process (sub) shown in the flowcharts of FIGS.

  First, after the built-in device, peripheral IC, interrupt mode, stack pointer, etc. are initialized (Sn1), access to the RAM 91c and the external memory (backup RAM) is permitted (Sn2). Next, it is determined whether or not the return command generated in Sa24a of the startup process (main) in FIGS. 7 to 9 is received from the main control unit 41 (Sn3). If the return command has not been received, it is determined whether or not the setting change command generated in Sa27 of the startup process (main) of FIGS. 7 to 9 has been received from the main control unit 41 (Sn4). When a setting change command is received, a setting reception command flag indicating that the setting change command has been received is stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 91c (Sn5).

  When a return command is received or when a setting change command is received, it is determined whether or not a backup flag corresponding to the sound / LED control module is set in the external memory (backup RAM) (Sn6). In this embodiment, in St5, St10, and St15 in the power interruption process (sub) of FIG. 25, when a power interruption occurs, a backup flag is set for each program module. That is, in this embodiment, regarding the processing performed by the sub-control unit 91, the backup flag includes a backup flag corresponding to the sound / LED control module, a backup flag corresponding to the AT control module, and an image control module. There are three types of backup flags. In Sn6, the sub-control unit 91 first checks whether or not a backup flag corresponding to the sound / LED control module is set.

  If the backup flag corresponding to the sound / LED control module is not set, an initialization process for initializing all storage areas of the RAM 91c and the external memory (backup RAM) is executed (Sn20). If the backup flag corresponding to the sound / LED control module is set, the backup flag is cleared (Sn7). After clearing the backup flag, an exclusive OR of the data in the area where the sound / LED control module of the external memory (backup RAM) is stored is obtained and a checksum is calculated (Sn8). Thereafter, it is determined whether or not the calculated checksum matches the backed-up checksum (Sn9). In this embodiment, in St4, St9, and St14 in the power interruption process (sub) of FIG. 25, the data used in the program module for each program module is also checked for each program module when a power interruption occurs. It is generated by obtaining an exclusive OR, and is stored in an external memory (backup RAM). That is, in this embodiment, regarding the processing performed by the sub-control unit 91, the checksum includes a checksum calculated using data used in the sound / LED control module and data used in the AT control module. There are three types: a checksum calculated using the checksum and a checksum calculated using data used in the image control module. In Sn9, the sub-control unit 91 first checks whether or not the checksum calculated using the data used in the sound / LED control module matches the one backed up.

  If the checksums do not match, initialization processing for initializing all the storage areas of the RAM 91c and the external memory (backup RAM) is executed (Sn20). If the checksums match, it is determined whether a backup flag corresponding to the AT control module is set in the external memory (backup RAM) (Sn10). If the backup flag corresponding to the AT control module is not set, initialization processing for initializing all storage areas of the RAM 91c and the external memory (backup RAM) is executed (Sn20). If the backup flag corresponding to the AT control module is set, the backup flag is cleared (Sn11). After the backup flag corresponding to the AT control module is cleared, the checksum is calculated by obtaining the exclusive OR of the data in the area where the data used in the AT control module of the external memory (backup RAM) is stored (Sn12). Thereafter, it is determined whether or not the calculated checksum matches the backed-up checksum (Sn13). If the checksums do not match, initialization processing for initializing all the storage areas of the RAM 91c and the external memory (backup RAM) is executed (Sn20).

  If the checksums match, it is determined whether a backup flag corresponding to the image control module is set in the external memory (backup RAM) (Sn14). If the backup flag corresponding to the image control module is not set, initialization processing for initializing all storage areas of the RAM 91c and the external memory (backup RAM) is executed (Sn20). If the backup flag corresponding to the image control module is set, the backup flag is cleared (Sn15). After the backup flag corresponding to the image control module is cleared, the checksum is calculated by obtaining the exclusive OR of the data in the area where the data used in the image control module of the external memory (backup RAM) is stored (Sn16). Thereafter, it is determined whether or not the calculated checksum matches the backed-up checksum (Sn17). If the checksums do not match, initialization processing for initializing all the storage areas of the RAM 91c and the external memory (backup RAM) is executed (Sn20).

  If the checksums match, it is determined whether the setting change command reception flag is set (Sn18). If the command change flag during setting change is not set, a return process is executed (Sn19). On the other hand, when the setting change command reception flag is set, initialization of the RAM 91c is executed (Sn20). After the process of Sn19 or Sn20 is completed, the timer interrupt process (sub) shown in FIG. 23 is performed according to the timer interrupt.

  As described above, in the startup process (sub), the return process is performed on the condition that all checksums of the program modules match and the backup flags for the program modules are all set. It is possible to prevent the restoration process from being performed even though the module backup data is not accurate. As a result, even if backup data is created for each module, the return process can be performed reliably.

  FIG. 23 is a flowchart of timer interrupt processing (sub) executed by the CPU 91c at intervals of 1.12 seconds based on the count value of the internal clock.

  In the timer interrupt process (sub), first, the register in use is saved in the stack area (Sp1).

  Next, a power failure determination process is performed (Sp2). In the power failure determination process, it is determined whether or not a voltage drop signal is input from the power failure detection circuit 48. If a voltage drop signal is input, whether or not the voltage drop signal is input in the previous power failure determination process as well. If a voltage drop signal has been input in the previous power failure determination process, it is determined that a power failure has occurred, and a power interruption flag indicating that is set.

  After the power failure determination process in the step of Sp2, it is determined whether or not the power interruption flag is set (Sp3). If the power interruption flag is set, the process proceeds to a power interruption process (sub) described later. .

  If the power interruption flag is not set, command analysis processing is executed (Sp4). In the command analysis process, it is determined whether or not a command is stored in the command buffer. If the command is stored in the command buffer, the command is acquired from the command buffer. And the process according to the acquired command is performed.

  After the command analysis process is completed, the sound / LED control process is executed based on the sound / LED control module (Sp5). The sound / LED control process in the step of Sp5 is a process executed by the sub-control unit 91 according to the sound / LED control module. In the sound / LED control process, control related to the effect effect LED 52, the speakers 53, 54, and the reel LED 55 is performed according to the progress of the game.

  After the sound / LED control process is completed, the AT control process is executed based on the AT control module (Sp6). The AT control process in the step of Sp6 is a process executed by the sub control unit 91 according to the AT control module. In the AT control process, the sub control unit 91c determines whether or not a predetermined AT lottery condition is satisfied based on a command from the main control unit 41, and determines whether or not to control the AT when the AT lottery condition is satisfied. An AT lottery to determine whether or not.

  As the AT lottery conditions, for example, in RT0 to RT4, when cherries (weak cherry, strong cherry, middle cherries) or SP replay is established, when BB or RB is completed, it is set.

  When the sub-control unit 91c wins the AT lottery, the sub-control unit 91c sets an AT flag indicating that in a predetermined area of the RAM 91c. Then, it is determined whether or not the AT flag is set. If the AT flag is set, AT control is executed.

  When it is specified from the AT flag that it is AT, a navigation effect is executed when a winning combination corresponding to the gaming state is won. The navigation target combination is replay GR1 to 6 when it is normal · RT1, replay GR11 to 16 and replay GR21 to 25 when it is normal · RT0, and replay GR31 to 36 when it is normal · RT2. Moreover, in normal / RT0-3, the push order bell is a common navigation target combination. As a navigation effect when winning replays GR1 to GR36, a push order for winning a promotion replay, special replay, or SP replay according to the winning situation is notified. For example, a message “left middle right!” Is displayed on the liquid crystal display 51 as a navigation effect when the replay GR1 is won. Regarding the other replays GR <b> 2 to 36, a message corresponding to the replay GR is displayed from the liquid crystal display 51.

  As described above, in the navigation effect in the present embodiment, a message reminiscent of an operation mode advantageous to the player is notified in the same mode regardless of the type of the navigation target role. For this reason, the player can operate in an operation mode that is advantageous to the player without being conscious of the type of the winning navigation target combination.

  The mode of the navigation effect is not limited to such a mode, and any mode may be used as long as the player can distinguish according to the winning situation. In addition, the navigation effect is not limited to what is displayed on the liquid crystal display 51, and may be executed using the effect effect LED 52, the speakers 53 and 54, the reel LED 55, and the like.

  Then, by executing the navigation effect, it is possible to make the promotion replay winning, the special replay winning, the SP replay winning, the bell winning selected intentionally, and avoid the falling replay winning.

  In addition, as a navigation effect (a specific example will be described later with reference to FIGS. 39 and 40) when one of the push order bells is won, a push order for reliably winning a right-falling bell or a middle bell is notified. Is done. For example, when winning the left bell, the left reel is stopped as the first stop reel, so that the right falling bell can be reliably won, so “left!” For stopping the left reel as the first stop reel. Is displayed on the liquid crystal display 51. As for the middle bell and the right bell, a message corresponding to each bell is displayed from the liquid crystal display 51.

  After the AT control process is completed, the image control process is executed based on the image control module (Sp7). The image control process in the step of Sp7 is a process executed by the sub control unit 91 according to the image control module. In the image control process, for example, control related to display of various images displayed from the liquid crystal display 51 such as demonstration display and effect display is performed.

  FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing the control contents of the power interruption process (sub) executed when the sub control unit 91 determines that the power interruption flag is set in the timer interrupt process (sub) described above.

  In the power interruption process (sub), first, the sub control unit 91 reads the backup data of the sound / LED control module from the work RAM (St1). Next, predetermined data conversion is performed on the data read from the work RAM to create backup data (St2). Then, the sub control unit 91 stores the created backup data in the backup RAM (St3). Next, the sub-control unit 91 calculates the exclusive OR of the backup data converted in St2, calculates the checksum of the backup data of the sound / LED control module, and sets it in the backup RAM (St4). After setting the checksum data, the sub-control unit 91 sets a backup flag indicating that the backup has been executed in the backup RAM (St5).

  Here, the data conversion process in step St2 will be described. In St1, the sub-control unit 91 reads 2 bytes (16 bits) of data from the work RAM which is an internal memory. In this embodiment, an SRAM capable of only 8-bit bus access is connected as an external memory and used as a backup RAM. As described above, in this embodiment, the sub-control unit 91 can only perform 16-bit or 32-bit bus access to an external device such as an external memory. Then, even if the 16-bit data read from the work RAM is stored in the backup RAM as it is, only the 8-bit data can be recognized on the backup RAM side, so the upper 8 bits are lost and the lower 8-bit data. However, a situation in which the data cannot be stored in the backup RAM occurs. Therefore, in the step of Sm2, the 16-bit data read in St1 is converted into two data by performing the following data conversion process.

  First, for the first conversion data, the 16-bit data read in St1 is masked with the mask value “00FF (H)” as it is, and only the lower 8 bits of the original data read in St1 are used as the lower 8 bits. Generate data set to. For the second conversion data, the 16-bit data read in St1 is shifted by 8 bits (therefore, the value corresponding to the upper 8 bits of the original data is moved to the lower 8 bits). ), The data after the shift processing is masked with the mask value “00FF (H)”, and data in which the upper 8 bits of the original data read in St1 are set to the lower 8 bits is generated. Then, by storing these two pieces of conversion data in the backup RAM in the step of St3, the data is divided into two data, but the upper and lower values of the original data read in St1 are not lost, and the power backup can do.

  Note that the same data conversion process as the above-described step St2 is also executed in steps St7 and St12 described later.

  Next, the sub control unit 91 reads backup data of the AT control module from the work RAM (St6). Next, predetermined data conversion is performed on the data read from the work RAM to create backup data (St7). Then, the sub control unit 91 stores the created backup data in the backup RAM (St8). Next, the sub-control unit 91 calculates the exclusive OR of the backup data converted in St7, calculates the checksum of the backup data of the AT control module, and sets this in the backup RAM (St9). After setting the checksum data, the sub-control unit 91 sets a backup flag indicating that the backup has been executed in the backup RAM (St10).

  Next, the sub control unit 91 reads the backup data of the image control module from the work RAM (St11). Next, predetermined data conversion is performed on the data read from the work RAM to create backup data (St12). Then, the sub control unit 91 stores the created backup data in the backup RAM (St13). Next, the sub-control unit 91 calculates the exclusive OR of the backup data converted in St12, calculates the checksum of the data used in the reel rotation control module, and sets this in the backup RAM (St14). . After setting the checksum data, the sub-control unit 91 sets a backup flag indicating that the backup has been executed in the backup RAM (St15).

  After setting the backup flag in St15, access to the RAM 91c is prohibited (St16). Thereafter, the voltage decreases, the CPU 91a of the sub-control unit 91 stops and shifts to a standby state. And if a voltage falls in this standby state, it will be in an operation stop state internally. Therefore, the sub-control unit 91 reliably stops operation when power is interrupted.

  Here, a specific example when the backup data of each program module is stored in the backup RAM will be described with reference to FIG.

  As described with reference to FIG. 25, out of the three program modules of the sound / LED selection control module, the AT control module, and the image control module, first, the backup data of the sound / LED control module is stored in the backup RAM (St3). In the backup RAM, the start address designated when storing the backup data of the sound / LED selection control module is set to “A6000”. Therefore, in step St3, the sub-control unit 91 designates “A6000” as the start address and stores the sound / LED control module backup data. Then, until all the data for the sound / LED control module stored in the work RAM is backed up, the processing of St1 to St3 is repeatedly executed while incrementing the storage destination address of the backup RAM.

  Next, after storing the backup data of the sound / LED control module, the backup data of the AT control module is stored in the backup RAM (St8). In the backup RAM, the start address designated when storing data used in the AT control module is set to “A7000”. Therefore, the sub-control unit 91 specifies “A7000” as the start address and stores the backup data of the AT control module in step St8. Then, until the backup of all data for the AT control module stored in the work RAM is completed, the processing of St6 to St8 is repeatedly executed while incrementing the storage destination address of the backup RAM.

  Next, after the backup data of the AT control module is stored, the backup data of the image control module is stored in the backup RAM (St13). In the backup RAM, the start address designated when storing the backup data of the image control module is set to “A8000”. Therefore, the sub-control unit 91 specifies “A8000” as the start address in step St13, and stores the backup data of the image control module. Then, until the backup of all the data for the image control module stored in the work RAM is completed, the processing of St11 to St13 is repeatedly executed while incrementing the storage destination address of the backup RAM.

  In this way, since backup data is stored for each program module, when only one of the program modules needs to be changed in another model, only that program module needs to be replaced, and the change of the presentation control program becomes easy. . And since the start address for storing backup data of each program module is set for each program module, it is not necessary to maintain consistency for storing backup data even if the model is changed. The backup data may be stored at the start address set in. For this reason, it is possible to simplify the program at the time of storing the backup data, and it is possible to reduce the man-hour for developing the program. Similarly, since checksum data is also created for each program module, it is not necessary to maintain consistency for storing checksum data even if the model is changed, and the program for storing checksum data is simplified. Can reduce the man-hours for program development.

  In addition, since the backup data of the AT control module related to the player's profit is stored in the backup RAM in preference to the image control module, the backup data of the AT control module can be secured quickly, and the player's profit is lost. It is effective in preventing the occurrence.

  Next, using FIG. 27 to FIG. 29, data conversion executed in Sm2, Sm7, Sm12, Sm17 in the power interruption process (main) in FIG. 13 and St2, St7, St12 in the power interruption process (sub) in FIG. Will be described in detail.

  FIG. 27 is an explanatory diagram showing the contents of data in the backup RAM when data is transferred between the work RAM and the backup RAM with (A) the same bus width (B) and different bus widths. In the present embodiment, data is expanded in the work RAM for processing, and the data expanded in the work RAM is stored in the backup RAM as backup data. “(H)” indicates a hexadecimal number.

  The work RAM stores 16 pieces of 8-bit (1 byte) data at each address. For example, data “00”, “01”... “0F” are stored in addresses “0000h” to “000Fh”, respectively, and data “10” and “001Fh” are stored in addresses “0010h” to “001Fh”. 11 ”...“ 1F ”data is stored.

  As shown in FIG. 27A, a microprocessor capable of 8-bit bus access to an external device such as an external memory can be used to access a backup RAM as an external memory with a bus width of 8 bits (1 byte). In this case, that is, when the accessible bus widths coincide with each other, when the backup data is transferred from the work RAM to the backup RAM, the 8-bit backup data is stored as it is. Does not happen. Specifically, for example, when the data stored in the work RAM at the address “0000h” is read in 8-bit units and the 8-bit backup data “00” is transferred to the backup RAM, the transferred backup data “00” is transferred. Is stored in “0000h” of the backup RAM. Similarly, when the 8-bit backup data “01” stored at the address “0001h” in the work RAM is transferred to the backup RAM, the transferred backup data “01” is stored in the backup RAM. Similarly, backup data stored at other addresses is also stored at corresponding addresses.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 27B, an external device such as an external memory as shown in this embodiment is used with a microprocessor capable of only 32-bit or 16-bit bus access. When the backup RAM, which is a memory, can be accessed with a bus width of 8 bits (1 byte), that is, when the accessible bus widths do not match, data is read from the work RAM in units of 16 bits and backed up. When data is transferred to the RAM, the upper 8 bits of data transferred from the work RAM are lost, and all 16 bits of data cannot be transferred. Specifically, for example, when 16-bit backup data “0001” stored at addresses “0000h” and “0001h” in the work RAM is transferred to the backup RAM, the upper 8-bit data “01” is lost. Only the lower 8 bits of data “00” are stored in “0000h” of the backup RAM. Similarly, when the 16-bit backup data “0203” stored in the addresses “0002h” and “0003h” in the work RAM is transferred to the backup RAM, the upper 8-bit data “03” is lost and the lower 8-bit data is lost. Only data “02” is stored in “0002h” of the backup RAM. That is, the upper 8 bits of the 16-bit backup data are lost, and the backup data is stored only at even addresses in the backup RAM.

  Therefore, in order to prevent data loss even when the bus widths of the data buses of the work RAM and the backup RAM do not match, in the present invention, the power interruption processing (main) Sm2, Sm7, Data conversion is performed in Sm12, Sm17 and St2, St7, St12 of the power interruption process (sub) in FIG.

  First, the case where the bus width to be accessed on the microprocessor side does not match the bus width accessible on the backup RAM side and data in the upper 1 byte is lost will be described with reference to FIG. For example, when data is stored from the work RAM to the backup RAM in Sm3, Sm8, Sm13, Sm18 in the power interruption process (main) in FIG. 13 or St3, St8, St13 in the power interruption process (sub) in FIG. Assume that “1234”, which is bit backup data, is transferred to the backup RAM. In this case, as described with reference to FIG. 27, the upper 8-bit data “34” is missing and stored. For this reason, when performing the restoration process in Sa24 of FIG. 9 or Sn19 of FIG. 23, when the backup data is read from the backup RAM, the upper 8-bit data “34” is lost, and only the lower-order 1-byte data “12” is stored. Stored in work RAM. However, this cannot return to the state before the power interruption.

  Therefore, as shown in FIG. 28B, in this embodiment, when data is transferred from the work RAM to the backup RAM, the power interruption processing (main) Sm2, Sm7, Sm12, Sm17 in FIG. Data conversion is performed in St2, St7, St12 of the power interruption process (sub) in FIG.

  Specifically, for example, “1234 (H)” that is 16-bit data is converted into two data. For the first data, the data “1234 (H)” read from the work RAM is masked with the mask value “00FF (H)” as it is, and converted to “0034 (H)”. For the second data, the data read from the work RAM is shifted by 8 bits, masked with the mask value “00FF (H)”, and converted to “0012 (H)”. As a result, when 16-bit backup data “1234 (H)” is read from the work RAM and data conversion is performed, it is composed of two 16-bit data consisting of “0012 (H)” and “0034 (H)”. A total of 32 bits (4 bytes) of backup data is created. When each of the two 16-bit backup data is sequentially written in the backup RAM, as described above, the upper 8 bits of data “00” are lost, so the lower 8 of the one backup data “0012”. Bit data “12” is stored in the backup RAM. Similarly, “34”, which is lower byte data of the other backup data “0034”, is stored in the backup RAM. As a result, even when 16-bit backup data “1234” is transferred using a data bus having an 8-bit bus width, the data can be stored in the backup RAM without being lost.

  Also, the reverse data conversion process is performed when the return process is performed in Sa24 of FIG. 9 or Sn19 of FIG. Specifically, since only 8-bit data can be read from the backup RAM, the data “12 (H)” and the data “34 (H)” are sequentially read out and combined to form the data “1234 ( H) "is restored, and the restored data is stored in the work RAM.

  Next, using FIG. 29, data conversion is performed in Sm2, Sm7, Sm12, Sm17 in the power interruption process (main) in FIG. 13 and St2, St7, St12 in the power interruption process (sub) in FIG. A data storage state in the backup RAM when data is stored from the RAM into the backup RAM will be described.

  As described above, for example, the 16-bit backup data “0001” stored in the addresses “0000h” and “0001h” in the work RAM is converted, and “0000” which is a total of 32-bit backup data. And “0001” are created. When this is transferred to the backup RAM, the upper 8-bit data “00” added at the time of conversion is lost, and only the lower 8-bit data “00” and “01” are stored in the backup RAM. If the upper 8 bits of data (data “00” added at the time of data conversion) is lost, no data is stored in the odd addresses “+ 0001h” and “+ 0003h”, so the lower 8 bits of the transferred 16-bit data “0000” The bit data “00” is stored in the even address “+ 0000h”, and the data “01” of the lower 8 bits of the 16-bit data “0001” transferred subsequently is stored in the even address “+ 0002h”. As described above, when data conversion is performed on other data and the data is transferred, the data is similarly stored at even addresses in the backup RAM.

  The embodiment of the present invention has been described above with reference to the drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to this embodiment, and the present invention can be modified or added without departing from the spirit of the present invention. Needless to say, it is included.

  In the above embodiment, a slot machine that sets wager numbers using medals and credits has been described as an example of a gaming machine. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and for example, a gaming ball is used as a gaming medium. The configuration shown in the above embodiment is applied to a pachinko machine used as a slot machine, a slot machine that sets a bet number using a game ball, and a complete credit type slot machine that uses only credits to set a bet number. Thus, the invention according to claim 1 can be realized. In the case of using a game ball as a game medium in a slot machine, for example, when 3 medals are set as 3 bets in the above embodiment when 1 medal is made to correspond to 5 game balls, This is equivalent to setting 15 bets using 15 game balls.

  Note that the gaming machine of the present invention is not limited to one using only one type of a plurality of types of game media such as medals and game balls, and for example, a plurality of types of games such as medals and game balls. The medium may be used in combination. That is, it is possible to play a game by setting the number of bets using any one of a plurality of types of game media such as medals and game balls, and a plurality of types of game media such as medals and game balls when a winning occurs. Any of the slot machines that can pay out any of these is also included in the slot machine of the present invention.

  Below, the example which applied this invention to the pachinko game machine is demonstrated using FIGS. 30-33.

  As shown in FIG. 30, the pachinko gaming machine 200 includes an outer frame (not shown) formed in a vertically long rectangular shape, and a game frame attached to the inside of the outer frame so as to be openable and closable. In addition, the pachinko gaming machine 200 includes a glass door frame 201 formed in a frame shape that can be opened and closed in the game frame. The game frame includes a front frame (not shown) that can be opened and closed with respect to the outer frame, a mechanism plate (not shown) to which mechanism parts and the like are attached, and various parts (games to be described later) attached to them. And the board 205).

  A hitting ball supply tray (upper plate) 202 is provided on the lower surface of the glass door frame 201. Under the hitting ball supply tray 202, there are provided an extra ball receiving tray 203 for storing game balls that cannot be accommodated in the hitting ball supply tray 202, and a hitting operation handle (operation knob) 204 for emitting hitting balls. A game board 205 is detachably attached to the back surface of the glass door frame 201. The game board 205 is a structure including a plate-like body constituting the game board 205 and various components attached to the plate-like body. In addition, a game area 206 is formed on the front surface of the game board 205 in which a game ball that has been struck can flow down.

  The member that forms the extra ball tray (lower tray) 203 is configured in a stick shape (bar shape), for example, at a predetermined position on the front side of the upper surface of the lower tray body (for example, the central portion of the lower tray), and the player Is attached to a stick controller 224 that can be tilted in a plurality of directions (front and rear, left and right).

  A member that forms the hitting ball supply tray (upper tray) 202 is subjected to a predetermined instruction operation by a player's pressing operation or the like at a predetermined position on the front side of the upper plate main body (for example, above the stick controller 224). A possible push button 223 is provided. A push sensor that detects the player's operation performed on the push button 223 is provided in the body of the upper plate at the position where the push button 223 is installed.

  In the vicinity of the center of the game area 206, an effect display device 208 composed of a liquid crystal display device (LCD) is provided. The display screen of the effect display device 208 includes an effect symbol display area for performing variable display of the effect symbol in synchronization with the variable display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol. Therefore, the effect display device 208 corresponds to a variable display device that performs variable display of effect symbols. Specifically, in this embodiment, in the effect symbol display area, for example, a symbol display area for variably displaying three ornamental (effect) effect symbols of “left”, “middle”, and “right” is displayed. is there. In the symbol display area, there are “left”, “middle”, and “right” symbol display areas, but the position of the symbol display area may not be fixed on the display screen of the effect display device 208. Three areas of the display area may be separated.

  The effect display device 208 is controlled by an effect control microcomputer mounted on the effect control board. When the first special symbol display 207a is executing variable display of the first special symbol, the effect control microcomputer causes the effect display device 208 to execute the effect display along with the variable display, and the second special symbol display 207a executes the second special display. When the variable display of the second special symbol is executed on the symbol display 207b, the effect display is executed on the effect display device 208 along with the variable display, so that it is possible to easily grasp the progress of the game. .

  Further, in the effect display device 208, symbols other than the symbol that becomes the final stop symbol (for example, the middle symbol of the left and right middle symbols) have been continuously provided for a predetermined time, and the jackpot symbol (for example, the left middle right symbol is aligned with the same symbol). Stops, swings, scales, or deforms in a state that matches the symbol combination), or multiple symbols fluctuate synchronously in the same symbol, or the position of the display symbol is switched Thus, an effect performed in a state where the possibility of occurrence of a big hit (hereinafter, these states are referred to as reach states) before the final result is displayed is referred to as reach effect. Further, the reach state and its state are referred to as a reach mode. Furthermore, variable display including reach production is called reach variable display. Then, when the display result of the symbol that is variably displayed on the effect display device 208 is not a big hit symbol, it becomes “out” and the variation display state ends. A player plays a game while enjoying how to generate a big hit.

  In the upper right part of the display screen of the effect display device 208, there are provided fourth symbol display areas 208a and 208b for displaying a fourth symbol after the effect symbol, a special symbol described later, and a normal symbol. In this embodiment, a fourth symbol display area 208a for the first special symbol in which a variation of the fourth symbol for the first special symbol is displayed in synchronization with a variation display of the first special symbol, which will be described later, A fourth symbol display area 208b for the second special symbol is provided in which the variation display of the fourth symbol for the second special symbol is performed in synchronization with the variation display of the special symbol.

  In this embodiment, the variation display of the effect symbol is executed in synchronization with the variation display of the special symbol (however, to be precise, the variation display of the effect symbol is performed on the effect control microcomputer side). This is performed by measuring the variation time recognized based on the command.) When performing an effect using the effect display device 208, for example, an effect that the effect content including the change display of the effect symbol disappears from the screen for a moment. There are a variety of effects, for example, and effects such that the moving object shields all or part of the screen are performed. For this reason, even if the display screen on the effect display device 208 is viewed, it may be difficult to recognize whether or not the current variation display is in progress. Therefore, in this embodiment, whether or not the state of the current variation is being displayed by confirming the state of the fourth symbol by further displaying the variation of the fourth symbol on a part of the display screen of the effect display device 208. It is possible to reliably recognize whether or not. Note that the 4th symbol is always variably displayed with a constant operation and does not disappear from the screen or is not shielded by a shielding object, so that it can always be visually recognized.

  The 4th symbol for the 1st special symbol and the 4th symbol for the 2nd special symbol may be collectively referred to as the 4th symbol, and the 4th symbol display area 208a for the 1st special symbol and the 2nd special symbol The fourth symbol display area 208b for symbols may be collectively referred to as a fourth symbol display area.

  The variation (variable display) of the 4th symbol is realized by continuing the state where the 4th symbol display areas 208a and 208b are repeatedly turned on and off at predetermined time intervals in a predetermined display color (for example, blue). . The variable display of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display 207a is synchronized with the variable display of the fourth symbol for the first special symbol in the fourth symbol display area 208a for the first special symbol. The variable display of the second special symbol on the second special symbol display 207b is synchronized with the variable display of the fourth symbol for the second special symbol in the fourth symbol display area 9d for the second special symbol. Synchronous means that the variable display start time and end time are the same, and the variable display period is the same. Further, when the big hit symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 207a, the display color reminiscent of the big hit in the fourth symbol display area 208a for the first special symbol (display color different from the loss. Sometimes it is displayed in blue, whereas it is displayed in red when it is a big hit. Further, when the big win symbol is stopped and displayed on the second special symbol display 207b, the display color reminiscent of the big hit in the fourth symbol display area 208b for the second special symbol (display color different from the loss. Sometimes it is displayed in blue, whereas it is displayed in red when it is a big hit.

  On the right side of the effect display device 208, a first special symbol display (first variable display unit) 207a that variably displays a first special symbol as identification information is provided. In this embodiment, the first special symbol display 207a is realized by a simple and small display (for example, 7 segment LED) capable of variably displaying numbers 0 to 9. That is, the first special symbol indicator 207a is configured to variably display numbers (or symbols) from 0 to 9. Further, on the right side of the effect display device 208 (next to the right of the first special symbol display 207a), a second special symbol display (second variable display unit) 207b that variably displays the second special symbol as identification information. Is also provided. The second special symbol display 207b is realized by a simple and small display (for example, 7 segment LED) capable of variably displaying numbers 0 to 9. That is, the second special symbol display 207b is configured to variably display numbers (or symbols) from 0 to 9.

  Hereinafter, the first special symbol and the second special symbol may be collectively referred to as a special symbol, and the first special symbol indicator 207a and the second special symbol indicator 207b are collectively referred to as a special symbol indicator (variable display unit). There are things to do.

  For the variable display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol, the first start condition or the second start condition, which is the variable display execution condition, is satisfied (for example, the game ball has the first start winning opening 210 or the second start winning opening) After passing 211 (including winning), the variable display start condition (for example, when the number of reserved memories is not 0 and the variable display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol is not executed) The state is started and the big hit game is not executed), and when the variable display time (fluctuation time) elapses, the display result (stop symbol) is derived and displayed. Note that the passing of a game ball means that the game ball has passed through a predetermined area such as a prize opening or a gate, and that includes a game ball entering (winning) a prize opening. It is. Deriving and displaying the display result is to finally stop and display a symbol (an example of identification information).

  A winning device having a first start winning opening 210 is provided below the effect display device 208. The game ball that has won the first start winning opening 210 is guided to the back of the game board 205 and detected by the first start opening switch 210a.

  A variable winning ball device 212 having a second starting winning port 211 through which a game ball can be won is provided below the winning device having the first starting winning port (first starting port) 210. The game ball that has won the second start winning opening (second start opening) 211 is guided to the back of the game board 205 and detected by the second start opening switch 211a. The variable winning ball device 212 is opened by the solenoid 16. When the variable winning ball device 212 is in the open state, the game ball can be won in the second start winning port 211 (easy to start winning), which is advantageous for the player. In the state where the variable winning ball apparatus 212 is in the open state, it is easier for the game ball to win the second start winning opening 211 than the first starting winning opening 210. In addition, in a state where the variable winning ball device 212 is in the closed state, the game ball does not win the second start winning port 211. Accordingly, in a state where the variable winning ball apparatus 212 is in the closed state, it is easier for the game ball to win the first starting winning hole 210 than the second starting winning hole 211. On the other hand, when the variable winning ball device 212 is controlled to be in the open state, the game ball heading for the variable winning ball device 212 is very likely to win the second start winning port 211.

  Hereinafter, the first start winning opening 210 and the second start winning opening 211 may be collectively referred to as a start winning opening or a starting opening.

  Above the second special symbol display 207b, the number of effective winning balls that have entered the second start winning opening 211, that is, the second reserved memory number (the reserved memory is also referred to as the start memory or the start prize memory) 4 is displayed. A second special symbol storage memory display 214b composed of two displays is provided. The second special symbol storage memory display 214b increases the number of indicators that are turned on by one every time there is an effective start winning. Then, each time the variable display on the second special symbol display 207b is started, the number of indicators to be turned on is reduced by one.

  Further, above the second special symbol hold memory display 214b, the number of effective winning balls that have entered the first start winning opening 210, that is, the first reserved memory number (the hold memory is also referred to as start memory or start prize memory). ) Is displayed, a first special symbol reservation storage display 214a is provided. The first special symbol storage memory indicator 214a increases the number of indicators that are turned on by one every time there is an effective start winning. Then, every time variable display on the first special symbol display 207a is started, the number of indicators to be turned on is reduced by one.

  Further, at the lower part of the display screen of the effect display device 208, a first reserved memory display unit 214c for displaying the first reserved memory number and a second reserved memory display unit 214d for displaying the second reserved memory number are provided. ing.

  The effect display device 208 is for decoration (for effect) during the variable display time of the first special symbol by the first special symbol display 207a and during the variable display time of the second special symbol by the second special symbol display 207b. A variable display of the effect symbol as the symbol is performed. The variable display of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display 207a and the variable display of the effect symbol on the effect display device 208 are synchronized. In addition, the variable display of the second special symbol on the second special symbol display 207b and the variable display of the effect symbol on the effect display device 208 are synchronized. Further, when the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 207a and when the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed on the second special symbol display 207b, the effect display device 208 reminds of the jackpot The combination of is stopped and displayed. In addition, the effect display device 208 is provided with three variable display areas on the left, the middle, and the right where the effect symbols can be variably displayed. For example, when the left, middle and right variable display areas are stopped in a state where the same symbols are aligned, the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed.

  Further, a special variable winning ball device 215 is provided below the variable winning ball device 212. The special variable winning ball device 215 includes an opening / closing plate, and when the specific display result (big hit symbol) is derived and displayed on the first special symbol display 207a, and the specific display result (big hit symbol) on the second special symbol display 207b. When the open / close plate is controlled to be opened by the solenoid 2166 in a specific game state (a big hit game state) that occurs when is displayed and displayed, the large winning opening serving as a winning area is opened. A game ball that has won a big winning opening is detected by a count switch 217.

  On the left side of the effect display device 208, a normal symbol display 209 for variably displaying normal symbols is provided. In this embodiment, the normal symbol display 209 is realized by a simple and small display (for example, 7 segment LED) capable of variably displaying numbers 0 to 9. That is, the normal symbol display 209 is configured to variably display numbers (or symbols) from 0 to 9. Moreover, the small display is formed in, for example, a square shape.

  When the game ball passes through the gate 221 and is detected by the gate switch 221a, variable display of the normal symbol display 209 is started. When the stop symbol on the normal symbol display 209 is a predetermined symbol (a winning symbol, for example, a symbol “7”), the variable winning ball apparatus 212 is opened for a predetermined number of times. That is, the state of the variable winning ball apparatus 212 is a state that is advantageous from a disadvantageous state for the player when the stop symbol of the normal symbol is a winning symbol (a state in which a game ball can be won in the second start winning slot 211). To change. In the vicinity of the normal symbol display 209, a normal symbol holding storage display 222 having a display unit with four LEDs for displaying the number of winning balls that have passed through the gate 221 is provided. Each time there is a game ball passing through the gate 221, that is, every time a game ball is detected by the gate switch 221 a, the normal symbol hold storage display 222 increases the number of LEDs to be turned on by one. Each time variable display on the normal symbol display 209 is started, the number of LEDs to be lit is reduced by one. In addition, a probability variation state in which the probability of being determined to be a big hit compared to the normal state is high (a state in which the probability of being determined to be a big hit as a result of fluctuation display of special symbols is increased compared to the normal state). Then, the probability that the stop symbol in the normal symbol display 209 becomes a winning symbol is increased, and the opening time and the number of times of opening of the variable winning ball device 212 are increased. In addition, even when the symbol variation time is shortened (the gaming state in which the special symbol variable display time is shortened), which is not the probability variation state, the opening time and the number of times of opening of the variable winning ball device 212 are increased.

  At the lower part of the game board 205, there is an out port 26 into which hit balls that have not won a prize are taken. In addition, four speakers 219 that utter sound effects and sounds as predetermined sound outputs are provided on the upper left and right and lower left and right outside the game area 206. A frame LED 220 provided on the front frame is provided on the outer periphery of the game area 206.

  In the gaming machine, a ball hitting device (not shown) that drives a driving motor in response to a player operating the hitting operation handle 204 and uses the rotational force of the driving motor to launch a gaming ball to the game area 206. ) Is provided. A game ball launched from the ball striking device enters the game area 206 through a ball striking rail formed in a circular shape so as to surround the game area 206, and then descends the game area 206. When the game ball enters the first start winning opening 210 and is detected by the first start opening switch 210a, if the variable display of the first special symbol can be started (for example, the variable display of the special symbol ends, 1), the first special symbol display 207a starts variable display (variation) of the first special symbol, and the effect display device 208 starts variable display of the effect symbol. In other words, the variable display of the first special symbol and the effect symbol corresponds to winning in the first start winning opening 210. If the variable display of the first special symbol cannot be started, the first reserved memory number is increased by 1 on condition that the first reserved memory number has not reached the upper limit value.

  When the game ball enters the second start winning port 211 and is detected by the second start port switch 211a, if the variable display of the second special symbol can be started (for example, the special symbol variable display ends, 2), the second special symbol display 207b starts variable display (variation) of the second special symbol, and the effect display device 208 starts variable display of the effect symbol. That is, the variable display of the second special symbol and the effect symbol corresponds to winning in the second start winning slot 211. If the variable display of the second special symbol cannot be started, the second reserved memory number is increased by 1 on condition that the second reserved memory number has not reached the upper limit value.

  A pachinko gaming machine to which the present invention is applied includes a game control board and an effect control board. The game control board is equipped with a game control microcomputer for controlling the pachinko gaming machine according to a program. The game control microcomputer includes a ROM for storing a program for game control (game progress control), a RAM as a storage means used as a work memory, a CPU for performing control operations according to the program, and an I / O port unit. . The RAM is a backup RAM as a non-volatile storage means, part or all of which is backed up by a backup power supply created on a power supply board. That is, even if the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, a part or all of the contents of the RAM is stored for a predetermined period (until the backup power supply cannot be supplied because the capacitor as the backup power supply is discharged).

  An effect control microcomputer is mounted on the effect control board. The effect control microcomputer receives an effect control command for instructing the effect contents from the game control microcomputer via the relay board, and performs display control of the effect display device that variably displays the effect symbols.

  Next, the operation of the pachinko gaming machine described in FIG. 30 will be described. FIG. 31 is a flowchart showing main processing executed by the game control microcomputer on the game control board. When power is supplied to the gaming machine and power supply is started, the input level of the reset terminal to which the reset signal is input becomes high level, and the microcomputer for game control confirms whether the contents of the program are valid. After executing the security check process which is a process for performing the process, the main process after step S1 is started. In the main process, the game control microcomputer first performs necessary initial settings.

  As shown in FIG. 31, in the initial setting process, the game control microcomputer first sets the interrupt prohibition (step S1). Next, the interrupt mode is set to interrupt mode 2 (step S2), and a stack pointer designation address is set to the stack pointer (step S3). After initialization of the built-in device (CTC (counter / timer) and PIO (parallel input / output port), which are built-in devices (built-in peripheral circuits)) is performed (step S4), the RAM is accessible (Step S5). The interrupt mode 2 is based on the value (1 byte) of the specific register (I register) built in the CPU of the game control microcomputer and the interrupt vector (1 byte: least significant bit 0) output by the built-in device. The address to be synthesized is a mode indicating an interrupt address.

  Next, the game control microcomputer confirms the state of the output signal (clear signal) of the clear switch (for example, mounted on the power supply board) input via the input port (step S6). If ON is detected in the confirmation, the game control microcomputer executes normal initialization processing (steps S10 to S15).

  If the clear switch is not on, check whether data protection processing of the backup RAM area (for example, power supply stop processing such as addition of parity data) was performed when power supply to the gaming machine was stopped (Step S7). If it is confirmed that such protection processing has not been performed, the game control microcomputer executes initialization processing. Whether there is backup data in the backup RAM area is confirmed by, for example, the state of the backup flag set in the backup RAM area in the power supply stop process.

  When it is confirmed that the power supply stop process has been performed, the game control microcomputer checks the data in the backup RAM area (step S8). In this embodiment, a parity check is performed as a data check. Therefore, in step S8, the calculated checksum is compared with the checksum calculated and stored by the same process in the power supply stop process. When the power supply is stopped after an unexpected power failure or the like, the data in the backup RAM area should be saved, so the check result (comparison result) is normal (matched). That the check result is not normal means that the data in the backup RAM area is different from the data when the power supply is stopped. In such a case, since the internal state cannot be returned to the state when the power supply is stopped, an initialization process that is executed when the power is turned on is not performed when the power supply is stopped.

  If the check result is normal, the game control microcomputer uses the game state restoration process for returning the internal state of the game control means and the control state of the electrical component control means such as the effect control means to the state when the power supply is stopped ( Steps S41 to S43) are performed. Specifically, the start address of the backup setting table stored in the ROM of the game control microcomputer is set as a pointer (step S41), and the contents of the backup setting table are sequentially set in the work area (area in the RAM 55). (Step S42). The work area is backed up by a backup power source. In the backup setting table, initialization data for an area that may be initialized in the work area is set. As a result of the processing in steps S41 and S42, the saved contents of the work area that should not be initialized remain as they are. The part that should not be initialized is, for example, data indicating the gaming state before the power supply is stopped (special symbol process flag, probability variation flag, time reduction flag, etc.), and the area where the output state of the output port is saved (output port buffer) ), A portion in which data indicating the number of unpaid prize balls is set.

  The game control microcomputer transmits a power failure recovery designation command as an initialization command at the time of power supply recovery (step S43). In addition, the game control microcomputer transmits a display result designation command designating a display result (probability big hit, normal big hit, sudden probability big hit, small hit, or off) stored in the backup RAM to the effect control board. (Step S44). Then, the process proceeds to step S14.

  In the initialization process, the game control microcomputer first performs a RAM clear process (step S10). Also, the start address of the initialization setting table stored in the ROM of the game control microcomputer is set as a pointer (step S11), and the contents of the initialization setting table are sequentially set in the work area (step S12). .

  By the processing in steps S11 and S12, for example, a normal symbol per-determining random number counter, a special symbol buffer, a total prize ball number storage buffer, a special symbol process flag, and other flags for selectively performing processing according to the control state are initialized. Value is set.

  Further, the game control microcomputer transmits an initialization designation command for initializing the effect control board to the effect control board (step S13). Further, the game control microcomputer executes a random number circuit setting process for initial setting of the random number circuit (step S14).

  In step S15, the CPU 56 sets a CTC register built in the game control microcomputer so that a timer interrupt is periodically generated every predetermined time (for example, 4 ms). That is, a value corresponding to, for example, 4 ms is set in a predetermined register (time constant register) as an initial value. In this embodiment, it is assumed that a timer interrupt is periodically taken every 4 ms.

  When the execution of the initialization process (steps S10 to S15) is completed, the game control microcomputer repeatedly executes the display random number update process (step S17) and the initial value random number update process (step S18) in the main process. . When the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process are executed, the interrupt disabled state is set (step S16). Set (step S19). Note that the display random number is a random number for determining the stop symbol of the special symbol when it is not a big hit, or a random number for determining whether to reach when it is not a big hit, and the display random number update process Is a process of updating the count value of the counter for generating the display random number. The initial value random number update process is a process for updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number. In this embodiment, the initial value random number is the initial value of the count value of the counter for generating a random number for determining whether or not to win for a normal symbol (normal random number generation counter for normal symbol determination). It is a random number to determine.

  When a timer interrupt occurs, the game control microcomputer executes a timer interrupt process in steps S20 to S34 shown in FIG. In the timer interrupt process, first, a power-off detection process for detecting whether or not a power-off signal is output (whether or not an on-state is turned on) is executed (step S20). The power-off signal is output, for example, when a power supply monitoring circuit mounted on the power supply board detects a decrease in the voltage of the power supplied to the gaming machine. In the power-off detection process, when detecting that the power-off signal has been output, the game control microcomputer executes a power supply stop process for storing necessary data in the backup RAM area. Next, for example, detection signals from the gate switch 221a, the first start port switch 210a, the second start port switch 211a, and the count switch 217 are input via the input driver circuit, and their state is determined (switch processing: step) S21).

  Next, the game control microcomputer includes a first special symbol display 207a, a second special symbol display 207b, a normal symbol display 209, a first special symbol hold memory display 214a, and a second special symbol hold memory display. 214b, display control processing for performing display control of the normal symbol hold storage display 222 is executed (step S22). For the first special symbol display 207a, the second special symbol display 207b and the normal symbol display 209, a drive signal is output to each display according to the contents of the output buffer set in steps S32 and S33. Execute control.

  In addition, a process of updating the count value of each counter for generating each random number for determination such as a random number for determination per ordinary symbol used for game control is performed (determination random number update process: step S23). The game control microcomputer further performs a process of updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number and the display random number (initial value random number update process, display random number update process: steps S24 and S25). ).

  Further, the game control microcomputer performs a special symbol process (step S26). A special symbol process is performed (step S26). In the special symbol process, corresponding processing is executed according to a special symbol process flag for controlling the first special symbol display 207a, the second special symbol display 207b, and the special winning award in a predetermined order. The CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag according to the gaming state.

  Next, normal symbol process processing is performed (step S27). In the normal symbol process, the game control microcomputer executes a corresponding process in accordance with the normal symbol process flag for controlling the display state of the normal symbol display for displaying the normal symbol in a predetermined order. The game control microcomputer updates the value of the normal symbol process flag in accordance with the game state.

  Further, the game control microcomputer performs a process of sending an effect control command to the effect control microcomputer (effect control command control process: step S28).

  Further, the game control microcomputer performs information output processing for outputting data such as jackpot information, start information, probability variation information supplied to the hall management computer, for example (step S29).

  Further, the game control microcomputer executes prize ball processing for setting the number of prize balls based on detection signals from the first start port switch 210a, the second start port switch 211a, and the count switch 217 (step S30). Specifically, a payout control command (prize ball number signal) indicating the number of winning balls is output to the payout control microcomputer in response to winning detection based on whether either the start port switch or the count switch is turned on. The payout control microcomputer drives the ball payout device in accordance with a payout control command indicating the number of winning balls.

  In this embodiment, a RAM area (output port buffer) corresponding to the output state of the output port is provided. However, the game control microcomputer has a solenoid area in the RAM area corresponding to the output state of the output port. The contents regarding on / off are output to the output port (step S31: output processing).

  In addition, the game control microcomputer sets special symbol display control data for effect display of special symbols according to the value of the special symbol process flag in an output buffer for setting special symbol display control data. Processing is performed (step S32).

  Further, the game control microcomputer sets the normal symbol display control data for performing the normal symbol display according to the value of the normal symbol process flag in the output buffer for setting the normal symbol display control data. Processing is performed (step S33).

  Thereafter, the interrupt permission state is set (step S34), and the process is terminated.

  With the above control, in this embodiment, the game control process is started every 4 ms. The game control process corresponds to the processes in steps S21 to S33 (excluding step S29) in the timer interrupt process.

  Next, the operation of the effect control means will be described. FIG. 33 is a flowchart showing main processing executed by the effect control microcomputer as effect control means mounted on the effect control board. The effect control microcomputer starts executing the main process when the power is turned on. In the main processing, first, initialization processing for clearing the RAM area, setting various initial values, and initializing a timer for determining the activation control activation interval (for example, 4 ms) is performed (step S701). . Thereafter, the effect control microcomputer proceeds to a loop process for monitoring the timer interrupt flag (step S702). When a timer interrupt occurs, the effect control microcomputer sets a timer interrupt flag in the timer interrupt process. If the timer interrupt flag is set in the main process, the effect control microcomputer clears the flag (step S703) and executes the following effect control process.

  In the effect control process, the effect control microcomputer first analyzes the received effect control command and performs a process of setting a flag according to the received effect control command (command analysis process: step S704).

  Next, the effect control microcomputer performs effect control process processing (step S705). In the effect control process, a process corresponding to the current control state (effect control process flag) is selected from the processes corresponding to the control state, and display control of the effect display device is executed. Specifically, according to the contents of the process data, control of the effect device (the effect display device 208 as an effect part for variably displaying the effect symbol, various lamps as an effect part, and the speaker 219 as an effect part) is executed. To do. For example, in accordance with the display control execution data, a command is output to the VDP in order to display an image (including an effect symbol) corresponding to the variation pattern on the effect display device 208. In addition, a control signal (lamp control execution data) is output to the lamp driver board in order to perform on / off control of various lamps. In addition, a control signal (sound number data) is output to the sound output board in order to perform sound output from the speaker 219.

  Next, the production control microcomputer performs the fourth symbol process (step S706). In the 4th symbol process, the process corresponding to the current control state (4th symbol process flag) is selected from among the processes corresponding to the control state, and the 4th symbol process area in the 4th symbol display area of the effect display device is selected. Execute display control.

  When the present invention is applied to the pachinko gaming machine configured as described above, for example, it is executed in step S21 in the timer interrupt process of FIG. 31 below the game control program executed by the game control microcomputer. A switch control module that performs control related to the switch process, a special symbol process control module that performs control related to the special symbol process executed in step S26 in the timer interrupt process of FIG. 31, and a step in the timer interrupt process of FIG. A normal symbol process control module that performs control related to the normal symbol process executed in S27 and a prize ball control module that performs control related to the prize ball processing executed in step S30 in the timer interrupt process of FIG. 31 are provided. Thereby, when it is sufficient to replace only one (one or a plurality) of control modules of a certain model with respect to other models, it is sufficient to replace only the control module, and the game control program can be easily changed.

  And in the process at the time of power supply stop, similarly to the process (for example, Sm1 to Sm5) in the power interruption process (main) of FIG. 13, a switch control module, a special symbol process control module, a normal symbol process control module, With respect to the prize ball control module, data of any program module is read from the work RAM, data conversion is performed on the read data to create backup data, and the backup data is stored in the backup RAM. Also, the checksum is calculated, set in the backup RAM, and the backup flag is set. These backup processes are repeated for each module. Note that the order in which backup processing is performed may be arbitrarily set.

  Further, in the process at the time of power failure recovery, the switch control module, the special symbol process control module, and the normal symbol process control are performed in the same manner as the process (for example, Sa5 to Sa8) in the startup process (main) of FIGS. It is determined whether or not a backup flag is set for the module and the prize ball control module. If the backup flag is set, the backup flag is cleared and a checksum is calculated. These processes are repeated for each module. If the checksums match for all program modules, the program modules are restored before power interruption. If the checksums match for all program modules, initialization processing is performed.

  Further, for example, an effect control process control module that performs control related to the effect control process executed in step S705 in the effect control main process of FIG. 32 below the effect control program executed by the effect control microcomputer, and FIG. And a fourth symbol process control module for performing control related to the fourth symbol process processing executed in step S706 in the effect control main processing. Thereby, when it is sufficient to replace only one (one or a plurality) of control modules of a certain model with respect to other models, it is only necessary to replace the control module, and the change of the production control program is facilitated.

  And, in the process at the time of power supply stop, as in the process (for example, St1 to St5) in the power interruption process (sub) in FIG. 25, any one of the production control process control module and the fourth symbol process control module Data of the program module is read from the work RAM, data conversion is performed on the read data to create backup data, and the backup data is stored in the backup RAM. Also, the checksum is calculated, set in the backup RAM, and the backup flag is set. These backup processes are repeated for each module. Note that the order in which backup processing is performed may be arbitrarily set.

  Moreover, in the process at the time of a power interruption return, similarly to the process (for example, Sn6 to Sn9) in the activation process (sub) of FIGS. 22 to 23, about the effect control process control module and the fourth symbol process control module, It is determined whether the backup flag is set. If the backup flag is set, the backup flag is cleared and a checksum is calculated. These processes are repeated for each module. If the checksums match for all program modules, the program modules are restored before power interruption. If the checksums match for all program modules, initialization processing is performed.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, when power supply is stopped, backup processing for storing backup data in the backup RAM is performed for each program module based on the data used in the program module (Sm3 and Sm8 in FIG. 13). , Sm13, Sm18, and St3, St8, St13 in FIG. 25), the start address is set so as to be stored in a different storage area for each program module, and backup is performed from the storage area corresponding to the set start address. Data is stored in the backup RAM (in Sm3, Sm8, Sm13, and Sm18 in FIG. 13, the part that stores backup data at the start address shown in FIG. 14 and the start address shown in FIG. 26 in St3, St8, and St13 in FIG. 25) Part to store the backup data). Therefore, it becomes possible to complete the backup processing for each function of the gaming machine, and it becomes possible to develop a program related to the backup processing for each function, so that the program development is simplified and the program is simplified. As a result, the number of man-hours for program development can be reduced. In addition, the backup process can be simplified. In addition, when performing backup processing with a program structure composed of a plurality of program modules, it becomes possible to perform backup processing of each program module in a common way without taking consistency for each model. Development man-hours can be reduced.

  In the above embodiment, each of the game control program and the effect control program has a program module structure. However, the present invention is not limited to this embodiment, and a gaming machine or game control in which only one of the programs is configured by a program module. A game in which at least one of a slot machine, a game control program, or an effect control program including a program other than a program or an effect control program, and a program other than a game control program or an effect control program are configured as program modules. It is possible to realize the invention according to claim 1 by applying the configuration shown in the above embodiment to a machine.

  In the above embodiment, the game control program is composed of four program modules: an internal lottery control module, an input / output control module, a reel rotation control module, and a payout control module. However, the present invention is not limited to this embodiment. A gaming machine having a modular structure of a game control program with at least one of these program modules, and a modular structure of a gaming control program with a program module other than at least one of the four and the above four program modules By applying the configuration shown in the above embodiment to a gaming machine, the invention according to claim 1 can be realized.

  In the above embodiment, the production control program is composed of the three program modules of the sound / LED control module, the AT control module, and the image control module. However, the present invention is not limited to this embodiment, and at least any one of the above three programs. A game machine with a module structure of an effect control program with one program module or a game machine with a module structure of an effect control program with a program module other than at least one of the above three and the above three program modules. By applying the configuration shown in the embodiment, the invention according to claim 1 can be realized.

  In the above embodiment, the backup process is performed in the order of the internal lottery control module, the input / output control module, the reel rotation control module, and the payout control module in the power interruption process (main). However, the present invention is not limited to this embodiment. The invention according to claim 1 can be realized by applying the configuration shown in the above embodiment to a gaming machine in which the order of backup processing is different from that in the above embodiment.

  In the above embodiment, the backup process is performed in the order of the sound / LED control module, the AT control module, and the image control module in the power interruption process (sub). However, the order of the backup process is not limited to this embodiment. However, it is possible to realize the invention according to claim 1 by applying the configuration shown in the above embodiment to a gaming machine different from the above embodiment. As a modified example related to the order of backup processing, for example, a gaming machine that performs backup processing of a program module (AT control module in this embodiment) for performing processing related to game control with priority over backup processing of other program modules By applying the configuration shown in the above embodiment to the above, the invention according to claim 1 can be realized. Specifically, in the above-described embodiment, in the power interruption process (sub), the backup process is performed in the order of the sound / LED control module, the AT control module, and the image control module. The backup processing of the control module may be performed with priority over the backup processing of the sound / LED control module and the image control module. That is, the AT control module backup process may be performed with the highest priority over the backup process of other program modules by performing the backup process of the AT control module at St1 to St5 in FIG. As a result, in the startup process (sub), the return process is not performed on condition that all backup data is normal, and only the function related to the program module whose backup data is normal is performed. Even if an unexpected power interruption occurs when backup processing related to other program modules is performed after the backup processing of the game is completed, it is possible to secure at least highly important backup data related to the interests of the player It becomes possible.

In the present embodiment, check data for determining whether backup data is normal is created for each program module using data used in the program module (Sm4, Sm9 in FIG. 13). , Sm14, Sm19 and St4, St9, St14 in FIG. 25).
Therefore, even if the program structure is composed of a plurality of program modules and the backup process is performed by a common method regardless of the model, the program development man-hours can be reduced.

  Further, in the present embodiment, for each program module, it is determined whether backup data based on data used in the program module is normal, and it is determined that all backup data is normal. Return processing is performed based on the data (portions Sa8, Sa12, Sa17, and Sa21 in FIGS. 7 to 9 and portions Sn9, Sn13, and Sn17 in FIGS. 21 to 22). Therefore, even if the start address is specified so that the start address of the data creation area of the backup data differs for each program module, the return process can be performed reliably.

  In the above embodiment, in the start process (main) and start process (sub), the checksums of the program modules are all returned to the state before the power interruption on condition that the checksums match. If there is a program module with a checksum that does not match, and a program module with a checksum that does not match, only the function related to the program module with the checksum that matches is restored to the state before power interruption, or You may apply the structure shown in said embodiment to the gaming machine which returns to the state before a power interruption about all the functions.

  In the present embodiment, the backup data is stored in the backup RAM by performing a common data conversion process regardless of which program module is used as the backup data (Sm2, Sm7 in FIG. 13). , Sm12, and Sm17, and St2, St7, and St12 in FIG. 25 are portions that perform data conversion shown in FIG. Therefore, the number of program development steps can be reduced.

  In the above embodiment, data conversion for adding 8-bit data is performed. However, the present invention is not limited to this embodiment, and the configuration shown in the above embodiment is applied to a slot machine that performs data conversion processing by another method. May be applied.

  In the present embodiment, the program module performs backup processing of backup data based on data used in the AT control module in preference to an image control module other than the AT control module for performing processing related to AT ( The part of St6 to St10 in FIG. 25 is given priority over the process of St11 to St15 and the part of the modified example regarding the order of backup processing). Therefore, it is possible to reliably back up the program module having a high importance related to the player's profit.

  In the above embodiment, the example in which the AT control module is applied as the game control program module has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this embodiment, and for example, priority is given to the backup processing of the program module that performs processing related to RT. For example, the configuration shown in the above embodiment may be applied to a gaming machine that performs backup processing of program modules related to games other than AT.

1 slot machine 2L, 2C, 2R reel 6 MAXBET switch 7 start switch 8L, 8C, 8R stop switch 41 main control unit 41a CPU
41b ROM
41c RAM
91 Sub-control unit 91a CPU
91b ROM
91c RAM

Claims (1)

A gaming machine in which a player can play a predetermined game,
Program storage means for storing a first program module and a second program module;
When performing the first control in the progression of the control of the gaming machine, and read out the first program module from said program storage means, performing the first control in accordance with the first program module together, when performing the second control in the progression of the control of the gaming machine, and read out the second program module from said program storage means, the second control according to the second program module Control means to execute;
Backup storage means capable of retaining data for a predetermined period even when power supply is stopped,
The control means stores first backup data based on data used in the first program module in the backup storage means, and first data based on data used in the second program module. A gaming machine comprising backup processing means for separately performing second backup processing for storing the second backup data in the backup storage means.

Images