JP6099189B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine that, when a lottery opportunity occurs during a game, displays a symbol in a manner that displays a result of a lottery after a symbol change display.

  Conventionally, there is a known prior art of a gaming machine that determines which of a plurality of types of winning is made by a bonus value lottery when winning a winning lottery, and displays the result by a design pattern (for example, (See Patent Document 1).

  In the above-described prior art, there are a probability variation and a normal variation as the types of winning, and when winning is determined by lottery, which type is determined (assignment rate to the probable variation) is displayed by a symbol color. In particular, with this prior art, the color of the symbol used to display the winning symbol (a set of numbers) is changed in a predetermined order (red-> yellow-> green-> blue-> red ...). The change display and the stop display are performed in the color after the change until it is used for the hit display. At this time, the symbol color represents the probability distribution ratio (red: 100%, yellow: 100%, green: 50%, blue: 0%), so the number of blue or green symbols in the symbol band If there are many, the overall probability distribution ratio decreases, but conversely, if the number of red and yellow symbols increases, the overall probability distribution ratio increases, and if all the symbols change to the same color, `` jackpot '' As a result, all the symbols change to red, and a game characteristic that the probability variation distribution rate becomes 100% at the next time is obtained.

JP 2009-28343 A

  The prior art described above is useful in that the probability variation distribution rate at the next hit is varied in various ways by sequentially changing the color of the symbol that is the target of the hit display.

  However, according to the prior art method, even if the number of symbols with a high probability variation allocation rate (for example, yellow) increases in the symbol belt, the next color with a low probability variation allocation rate (green) , Blue) is forcibly changed, so that the player has a problem that the “hit display” of the symbol becomes “downgrade”, and instead it is awakened.

  In particular, the probability of a “winning display” increases when the player changes to a probable state, so the player has the expectation that “it is easy to hit because it is in a probable state”, whereas “ There is also a sense of crisis that the color of the game will be downgraded, which may hinder the player's aggressiveness and uplifting feeling to win continuously.

  Therefore, the present invention is intended to provide a technique that hardly hinders the aggressiveness of the game.

The present invention employs the following means for solving the above problems. In addition, the wording in the following brackets is an illustration to the last, and this invention is not limited to this.
Solution 1: The gaming machine of the present solution has a lottery execution means for executing a predetermined internal lottery (for example, a lottery to determine whether or not to trigger an operation of a variable winning device) when a lottery opportunity occurs during the game; Winning type defining means for prescribing a plurality of winning types having different degrees of value (for example, the number of prize balls that can be generated per winning) for the internal lottery executed by the lottery executing means; When the internal lottery executed by the lottery executing means wins, the winning type determining means for determining which winning type among the plurality of winning types defined by the winning type defining means When the internal lottery is executed by the lottery execution means, a symbol (including a symbol visually recognized, for example) is variably displayed over a preset fluctuation time, and the internal lottery At the time of winning and winning, the symbol display means for stopping and displaying the symbol in a manner representing the winning type determined by the winning type determining means, and at the time of the change display and stop display of the symbol by the symbol display means at least within the fluctuation time A symbol effect executing means for executing a variable display effect corresponding to the symbol variable display and executing a stop display effect corresponding to the symbol stop display, and the variable display effect and the stop display effect by the symbol effect executing means. As a material to be used for, a specified number of effect designs (for example, represented by images generated from electronic data) having an aspect that expresses relevance to any one of a plurality of types of winning as well as individual identification (individuality) And a material setting means for setting (including a thing) and a mode that a specified number of the effect symbols have when a specific condition is satisfied during the game. While maintaining the individual identity that is initially set by the material setting means, and a material setting changing means for changing the association between winning type from the initial setting.

According to the gaming machine of the present solution, the game proceeds in the following flow.
(1) An internal lottery is performed when a lottery opportunity occurs during a game. When a lottery opportunity occurs, the lottery elements necessary for the internal lottery are acquired and stored, and when the conditions for executing the lottery are satisfied, the lottery elements may be stored and the internal lottery may be performed. .

(2) Regarding the winnings obtained by the internal lottery, there are a plurality of winning types having different values associated with the winnings.
(3) For this reason, when a win is actually obtained by internal lottery, it is determined which win type corresponds. In determining the winning type, another winning type determining element acquired and stored together with the lottery element may be used.

(4) In any case, when the internal lottery is performed, the symbol change display and the stop display are performed. The result of the internal lottery is represented by a symbol stop display mode. In the case of winning, the symbol may be stopped and displayed in a manner representing the winning type.
(5) In addition, a variable display effect and a stop display effect corresponding to the symbol variable display and the stop display are performed.

(6) A plurality of “production symbols” are used for the production material. The plurality of performance symbols have an aspect representing the relationship between individual distinguishability (for example, natural numbers from 1 to 9) and the winning type. The recognizability and the relationship with the winning type are preferably those that can be easily recognized visually. Among these, the “discriminating” of each effect symbol is, for example, a stop display such as “a plurality of effect symbols having the same distinguishability (same type) are displayed in a state in which a plurality of effect symbols are aligned”. A mode of production is made possible. Further, the “relevance with the winning type” enables an aspect such as “the winning type is represented by the mode of the effect symbol displayed in the stop display effect”.

(7) The initial design (for example, when one business day starts at the game hall or when the previous player ends the game and the next player starts the game, etc.) However, in the gaming machine of the present solution, when the specific condition is satisfied during the game, the relevance with the winning type is changed from the initial setting in the aspect of the effect design.

  As described above, according to the gaming machine of the present solution, by changing the relevance with the winning type represented in the initial setting to the relevance with another winning type with respect to the aspect of the production symbol Depending on the progress of the game, the impression of the variable display effect and the stop display effect using the effect symbol as a material can be changed in various ways.

  Solution 2: In the gaming machine of Solution 1, a specific winning in which a winning is obtained by the internal lottery executed by the lottery executing means and a degree of value associated with the winning among a plurality of winning types is relatively high When the symbol is stopped and displayed in a manner representing the specific winning type by the symbol display unit as a result of being determined by the winning type determining unit when it corresponds to a type, a specific value special game that enables generation of a specific value is executed On the other hand, if the winning is obtained by the internal lottery executed by the lottery executing means, and the winning type is determined to correspond to a non-specific winning type having a relatively low degree of value associated with the winning among a plurality of winning types As a result of the determination by the means, if the symbol is stopped and displayed in a manner representing the non-specific winning type by the symbol display means, the value that is lower than the specific value can be generated. When the special game execution means for executing the fixed value special game and the specific value special game or the non-specific value special game executed by the special game execution means are completed, the winning in the internal lottery is performed with a relatively low probability. High probability state transition means for transitioning from the obtained low probability state to a high probability state in which winning in the internal lottery is obtained with higher probability than the low probability state, and transition to the high probability state by the high probability state transition means When the result of non-winning in the internal lottery performed during the period has been reached a specific number of times, the symbol display means executes symbol stop display for the specific number of times in a manner representing the result of non-winning Then, a low probability state transition means for shifting from the high probability state to the low probability state, the symbol effect execution means is executed by the lottery execution means If the winning is obtained in the part lottery, and the winning type determining means determines that the winning type corresponds to the specified winning type, using the effect design having the specific mode representing the relevance with the specific winning type While the stop display effect is executed, if the winning is obtained by the internal lottery executed by the lottery executing means, and the winning type determining means determines that it corresponds to the non-specific winning type, the non-specific winning The stop display effect is executed using the effect symbol having a non-specific aspect representing the relationship with the type, and the material setting changing means is transferred to the high probability state by at least the high probability state transfer means. A winning condition is obtained by the internal lottery performed during the period, and the winning condition determining means determines that the winning condition is determined by the winning type determining means to correspond to the specified winning type Assuming that the aspect of the effect symbol is changed from the initial setting.

By using the gaming machine of the present solution, the following gaming characteristics are realized.
(8) For a plurality of winning types, at least “specific winning type” having a relatively high degree of value associated with winning and “non-specific winning type” having a relatively low degree of value accompanying winning “ It is prescribed by “winning type defining means”. If it is determined that it falls under the “special winning type” at the time of the internal lottery, a “special value special game” that can generate a specific value is executed, but if it is determined that it falls under the “non-specific winning type” A “non-specific value special game” that can generate a lower value is executed. In any case, the execution of the special game will generate some value (for example, the value of paying out a winning ball for winning a variable winning device that has been activated).

(9) In the present solution, the winning type determined at the time of winning is basically expressed by the stop display mode of the symbol, but this is also clearly expressed by the direction of the effect symbol used for the stop display effect on the effect. ing. In other words, if the winning type determined at the time of winning is “specific winning type”, the stop display effect is executed using the directing design of the specific mode representing the relationship with this, while the winning type determined at the time of winning Is “non-specific winning type”, the stop display effect is executed using the non-specific mode effect symbol representing the relevance to this. As a result, in addition to “winning was obtained by internal lottery”, “whether the degree of value associated with winning is high or low” can be clearly taught in the production.

(10) Anyway, when the symbol is stopped and displayed in a manner representing winning, any one of the above special games is executed. Then, when the “specific value special game” ends or the “non-specific value special game” ends, the “low probability state” shifts to the “high probability state”. Since the “high probability state” is more likely to be won than the “low probability state”, the player is in an advantageous state.

(11) However, the “high probability state” in this case is terminated when the symbol change display and stop display are performed up to a specific number of times without winning, and the state shifts to the “low probability state”. If you move to the “Low Probability State”, it will be harder to win than the “High Probability State” so far. It is desirable to get a win. Because, if the next winning is obtained before the “high probability state” is completed, the game will transition to the “high probability state” again through either “specific value special game” or “non-specific value special game”. This is because one value such as “continuity of special games” and “possibility that special games occur continuously” is found there. On the other hand, if the “high probability state” cannot be obtained during the “high probability state” and the “high probability state” ends, the “low probability state” is entered and the next winning becomes difficult. As a result, the above-mentioned “continuity of special games” and “possibility that special games occur continuously” are not found, and the flow of the game is divided into one segment.

(12) In addition, in this solution, in addition to the fact that the next winning was obtained during the “high probability state”, when it is determined that the “specific winning type” corresponds to the winning design, The mode (relationship with the specific winning type) is changed from the initial setting. In other words, the following items are included here regarding “satisfying a specific condition”.
(I) The next winning was obtained after the end of the special game and before the “high probability state” ends.
(Ii) In addition, it has been determined in the above (i) that it falls under “specific winning type”.

  As a result, according to this solution, the higher specific condition of “getting a winning with a specific winning type of higher value” is cleared, not just “continuous winning”. As a price for what has been done, the aspect of the effect design (relevance with the winning type) is changed from the initial setting to increase the added value for the subsequent effect.

  Solving means 3: In the gaming machine of solving means 2, the material setting means has the non-specific aspect more than the total number of the effect symbols having the specific aspect among the specified number of the effect symbols. A large number of production symbols are initially set, and the material setting change means has the non-specific aspect in the initial setting by the material setting means when the specific condition is satisfied. By changing the effect design to that of the specific mode, the total number of the design symbols having the specific mode that was initially set by the material setting means is increased within a specified number, and the non-specific specification is relatively The total number of the production symbols having the aspect is reduced within the specified number.

By using the gaming machine of the present solution, the following gaming characteristics are realized.
(13) A plurality of effect symbol arrangements are configured on the effect using the effect symbols, and the effect symbols vary in the plurality of effect symbol arrangements (for example, variation in scrolling in the arrangement direction, sequence order (or reverse order)). When the display is changed, the change display effect is performed, and when the change is stopped, a combination of the effect symbols is formed among a plurality of arrays, and the stop display effect is thereby performed. Is called.

  Here, there are “specific mode” and “non-specific mode” as described above for the mode of the effect symbol, but in the initial setting, the total number of effect symbols of “specific mode” in each effect symbol array There are few, and the total number of production symbols of "non-specific aspect" is larger. In this way, in the state where the total number of “specific modes” occupying the entire production symbol arrangement is small and the total number of “non-specific modes” is large, the proportion determined to fall under “non-specific winning type” at the time of winning And the player is given the impression that the percentage determined to fall under the “special winning category” is low. Therefore, while the game is progressing with the initial setting, it is easy to have a feeling that “winning with a specific winning type is relatively difficult”.

(14) In addition, in the gaming machine of the present solving means, by satisfying the above specific conditions, the total number of the “designated aspects” of the production symbols in all the production symbol arrays is increased, and the relative “non-specification” Decrease the total number of effect designs of “Aspect”. As a result, it is possible to give an impression as if the ratio determined to fall under the “specific winning type” is increased at the time of winning, and to change the impression given by the initial setting. In addition, while the game is progressing in a state changed from the initial setting, it becomes easier to have a feeling that “winning in a specific winning type has been facilitated than in the initial stage”.

(15) Further, in the gaming machine of the present solving means, when the specific condition is satisfied with the state of the effect symbol changed from the initial setting, each time in the all effect symbol arrangements according to the above (13), The total number of effect symbols of “specific mode” is increased, and the total number of effect symbols of “non-specific mode” is decreased accordingly. As a result, when the game progresses while repeatedly satisfying the specific condition, it gives the impression that the percentage determined to fall under the “specific winning type” at the time of winning every time the specific condition is met be able to. This will give players the motivation to meet specific conditions one after another in the flow of “high probability state” after the end of the special game and fall under the “special winning type”, and aggressiveness towards the game And maintain a sense of uplifting.

  Solving means 5: In the gaming machines of solving means 2 to 4, when a winning is obtained by the internal lottery executed by the lottery executing means, and the winning type determining means determines that it corresponds to the specific winning type And a change notice effect execution means for executing a change notice effect related to a change in the aspect of the relevance with the winning type of the effect symbol during the execution of the special value special game by the special game execution means. The material setting changing means, when the change notice effect is executed by the change notice effect means during execution of the specific value special game by the special game execution means, the symbol effect after the end of the specific value special game. For all the effect symbol arrays configured by the execution means, the total number of effect symbols having the specific aspect is increased from the initial setting, The total number of the performance symbols having the non-specific manner can be reduced from the initial setting.

By using the gaming machine of this solving means, the following gaming properties are realized.
(16) When the “special value special game” is executed by winning the “special winning type”, the “change notice effect” is executed therein. The content of the “change notice effect” is not particularly limited as long as it relates to the change of the “non-specific aspect” effect design to the “specific aspect”. By executing, it is possible to provide the player with predictability with respect to a change in the aspect of the effect symbol after the end of the “specific value special game”.

(17) When the “special value special game” in which the “change notice effect” is actually executed is finished, the total number of the “specific mode” effect symbols in all effect symbol arrays as in (14) above. Is increased, and the total number of effect symbols of “non-specific aspects” is relatively decreased. As a result, it is possible to realize the regularity that, as a flow of production, “when a change notice effect is executed during a specific value special game, the total number of production symbols of a specific aspect increases in the symbol arrangement”. it can. In the present solution, “the change notice effect has been executed” may be included in the specific condition.

  Solving means 6: In the gaming machines of solving means 3 to 5, as a result of the aspect of the effect symbol being changed from the initial setting by the material setting changing means, the total number of the effect symbols having the specific aspect is initially set. If the winning is obtained in the internal lottery performed in an increased state, and if it is determined by the winning type determining means that it corresponds to the non-specific winning type, the change by the material setting changing means is canceled and the It further comprises a material setting adjusting means for decreasing the total number of the production symbols having a specific aspect within a prescribed number and relatively increasing the total number of the production symbols having the non-specific aspect toward an initial setting. Good.

By using the gaming machine of this solving means, the following gaming properties are realized.
(18) Until now, the aspect of the effect design has been changed from the initial setting by satisfying the specific condition, and the total number of the effect design of the specific aspect has been increased in (14) above, but the specific condition is not satisfied As a result, if it is determined that it corresponds to the “non-specific winning type” at the time of winning, conversely, even if the production design has changed from the initial setting from “non-specific mode” to “specific mode”, the change The total number of performance symbols of the specific mode that has been canceled and increased until then will be reduced. In this case, it is possible to obtain a game that “if the specific condition is not satisfied, the state changed from the initial setting will not be maintained” in the production, and thereby the motivation and tension to “satisfy the specific condition” Can be given to a person. In addition, it is possible to prevent the subsequent game from becoming monotonous because a sense of security is felt in the state that the aspect of the effect design has changed from the initial setting.

  Solving means 7: In the gaming machines of solving means 2 to 6, the material setting means sets each discriminability as being expressed by a natural number of a prescribed number of aspects of a specified number of the effect symbols. A part of the effect design whose distinctiveness is represented by a natural number classified into the first group among the prescribed number has the specific aspect, and the natural number classified into the other first group The stage design whose distinguishability is expressed by the natural number classified into the second group different from the first group and the stage design whose distinctiveness is represented by the initial state as having the non-specific aspect The material setting changing means is based on a natural number classified into the first group within a specified number every time the specific condition is satisfied during the game. Among the performance symbols that discrimination is expressed, and changing those in the initial setting had the non-specific manner to the specific embodiments.

By using the gaming machine of the present solution, the following gaming characteristics are realized.
(19) By representing each discriminability represented by the production symbol with a natural number (for example, “1” to “9”) of a specified number, the natural number (eg, for example) that classifies the discrimination represented by the production symbol into the first group It can be divided into “odd numbers”, but not limited thereto, and natural numbers classified into the second group (for example, “even numbers”, but not limited thereto). And, by setting a part of the design symbols (for example, “3”, “7”, but not limited to these, for example, but not limited to these) whose identities are represented by the natural numbers of the first group are initially set as those of specific modes In addition, some of the effect designs can be treated as “special (related to a specific winning type)” in the initial setting. As described above, in the initial setting, some of the limited design symbols are “special” among the natural numbers of the first group, but the others are “special”, and the others are “normal (associated with non-specific winning types”. ) "Makes it easy to make people feel that winning in a specific winning type is relatively difficult.

(20) However, if a specific condition is satisfied during the game, the distinctiveness is represented by the natural number of the first group each time, and the “non-specific mode” is changed to the “specific mode”. By changing the ratio, the proportion of productions that are treated as “special” gradually increases. As a result, by proceeding with the game while satisfying specific conditions, a sense of expectation and excitement such as “possibility of consecutive winning” and “continuity of special value special games” in a continuous flow of winnings. Can be easily held by the player.

  Solving means 8: In the gaming machine of solving means 7, the material setting changing means is an initial setting among the effect symbols whose distinguishability is represented by natural numbers classified into the first group in a prescribed number. As a result of changing the one having the non-specific mode to the specific mode, all the production symbols whose distinctiveness is expressed by the natural numbers classified into the first group have the specific mode When the specific condition is further satisfied during the game in the state of becoming, after that, the stage design whose distinctiveness is represented by a natural number classified into the second group is changed from the non-specific mode to the specific mode I will let you.

By using the gaming machine of the present solution, the following gaming characteristics are realized.
(21) When all the natural numbers of the first group in the specified number and the distinctiveness are expressed in the specific design, the sense that “the winning in the specific winning type can be obtained at a considerably high rate” Although it is possible to hold, there is also room for further change in the design pattern that distinguishability is expressed by the natural number of the second group, "possibility of consecutive winning" and "continuity of special value special games" Can expand the sense of expectation and exhilaration.

  Solving means 9: In the gaming machines of solving means 2 to 8, the high probability state transition means shifts to the high probability state in a state in which the aspect of the effect symbol is changed from the initial setting by the material setting change means. After that, when a transition to the low probability state is made without winning in the internal lottery, the change by the material setting changing means is canceled, and the specified number of the design symbols are initially set by the material setting means. There may be further provided a material setting initialization means for returning to the above.

By using the gaming machine of this solution, the following gaming characteristics can be obtained.
(22) As described above, by satisfying the specific conditions during the game, the aspect of the effect design is gradually changed from the initial setting, but the “high probability state” that has been shifted to after the end of the special game ends, After shifting to the “low probability state”, the specific condition cannot be satisfied thereafter. In this case, the continuity of the game can be temporarily reset even by visually reverting to the initial setting for the effect design whose aspect has changed from the initial setting until then. Thereby, the opportunity to become a break of a game can be provided, and the willingness to satisfy a specific condition anew from there can be stimulated, and the fall of the aggressiveness with respect to a game can be suppressed.

  According to the gaming machine of the present invention, it is possible to suppress a decrease in the aggressiveness of the game.

It is a front view of a pachinko machine. It is a rear view of a pachinko machine. It is a front view which shows a game board unit independently. It is a front view which expands and shows a part of game board unit. It is a block diagram which shows the various electronic devices with which the pachinko machine was equipped. It is a flowchart (1/2) which shows the example of a procedure of a reset start process. It is a flowchart (2/2) which shows the example of a procedure of a reset start process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a power-off occurrence check process concretely. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of an interruption management process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a switch input event process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a 1st special symbol memory update process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a 2nd special symbol memory update process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the production | presentation determination process at the time of acquisition. It is a flowchart which shows the structural example of a special symbol game process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the special symbol change pre-processing. It is a figure which shows an example of the fluctuation pattern selection table at the time of loss (low probability or high probability non-time shortening state). It is a figure which shows an example of the fluctuation pattern selection table at the time of loss (high probability time reduction state). It is a figure which shows the structure row | line | column of the 1st special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table. It is a figure which shows the structure column of the 2nd special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table. It is a figure which shows an example of the big hit hour fluctuation pattern selection table (low probability or high probability non-time shortening state). It is a figure which shows an example of the big hit hour fluctuation pattern selection table (high probability time reduction state). It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a special symbol memory | storage area shift process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the special symbol stop display process. It is a flowchart which shows the structural example of a display output management process. It is a flowchart which shows the structural example of a variable winning apparatus management process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a big winning opening opening pattern setting process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a big prize opening / closing operation | movement process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a big winning opening closing process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of an end process. It is a continuation figure showing an example of a production picture corresponding to change display and stop display of a special symbol. It is a figure which shows the example of the aspect of the production | presentation symbol in initial setting. It is a continuation figure showing the flow of reach production performed at the time of big hit (winning). It is a continuous figure which shows the flow of a re-lottery effect. It is a continuation figure (1/2) which shows in part an example of a big-game effect performed during a big hit game when it corresponds to "16 rounds probable big hit". It is a continuation diagram (2/2) which shows in part an example of the big role production performed during the big hit game when it corresponds to “16 rounds probable big hit”. It is a figure which shows the example of a change (1) of the production | presentation symbol arrangement | sequence after completion | finish of 16 round probability variation big hit game. It is a continuation figure which shows the example of an effect of fireworks mode. It is a continuation figure which shows partially the 1st production example of the special reach production performed during the change of special symbols (1/9). It is a continuation figure which shows partially the 1st production example of special reach production performed during change of special symbols (2/9). It is a continuation figure which shows partially the 1st production example of special reach production performed during change of special symbols (3/9). It is a continuation figure which shows partially the 1st production example of special reach production performed during change of special symbols (4/9). It is a continuous figure which shows partially the 1st production example of the special reach production performed during the change of a special symbol (5/9). It is a continuation figure which shows partially the 1st production example of the special reach production performed during change of special symbols (6/9). It is a continuation figure which shows partially the 1st production example of special reach production performed during change of special symbols (7/9). It is a continuation figure which shows partially the 1st production example of special reach production performed during change of special symbols (8/9). It is a continuation figure which shows partially the 1st production example of special reach production performed during change of special symbols (9/9). It is a continuation figure which shows the 2nd example of the special reach production performed during change of special symbols partially (1/6). It is a continuation figure which shows partially the 2nd production example of special reach production performed during change of special symbols (2/6). It is a continuation figure which shows partially the 2nd production example of the special reach production performed during change of special symbols (3/6). It is a continuation figure which shows partially the 2nd production example of special reach production performed during change of special symbols (4/6). It is a continuation figure which shows partially the 2nd production example of special reach production performed during change of special symbols (5/6). It is a continuation figure which shows partially the 2nd production example of special reach production performed during change of special symbols (6/6). It is a continuation diagram (1/2) which shows in part an example of the big role production performed during the big hit game when it corresponds to the fourth “16 round probable big hit” without ending the “fireworks mode”. FIG. 22 is a continuous diagram (2/2) partially showing an example of a big-bodied performance performed during a big hit game when the “fireworks mode” does not end and corresponds to the fourth “16 round probability variable big hit”. It is a figure which shows the example of a change (2) of the production | presentation symbol arrangement | sequence after the end of the 4th 16 round probability variation big hit game. In the continuous diagram (1/2) that partially shows an example of the big role performance that is executed during the big hit game when the “fireworks mode” is passed through without being finished and corresponds to the sixth “16 round probable big hit” is there. In the continuous diagram (2/2) partially showing an example of the big role performance that is executed during the big hit game when the “fireworks mode” is passed through and it corresponds to the sixth “16 round probable big hit” is there. It is a figure which shows the example of a change (3) of the production | presentation symbol arrangement | sequence after the end of the 6th 16 round probability variation big hit game through. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of effect control processing. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of effect design management processing. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of effect design aspect management processing. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of an effect design change pre-process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a big hit hour variation production pattern selection process. It is a flowchart which shows the structural example of a process at the time of variable winning apparatus operation | movement. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a variable winning apparatus operation | movement pre-processing. It is a figure which shows the example of a change cancellation of the effect symbol arrangement | sequence when the setting which affects 4 rounds jackpot on an effect symbol arrangement | sequence is made. It is a figure which shows the other example of a change about production | presentation symbol arrangement | sequence. It is a figure which shows initialization of the production | presentation symbol arrangement | sequence by completion | finish of fireworks mode.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine (hereinafter abbreviated as “pachinko machine”) 1. FIG. 2 is a rear view of the pachinko machine 1. The pachinko machine 1 uses a game ball as a game medium, and a player borrows a game ball from a game hall operator to play a game with the pachinko machine 1. In the game of the pachinko machine 1, each game ball is a medium having a game value, and a privilege (profit) that the player enjoys as a result of the game is, for example, a game ball acquired by the player Based on the number of games, it can be converted into a game value. Hereinafter, the overall configuration of the pachinko machine 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2.

〔overall structure〕
The pachinko machine 1 mainly includes an outer frame unit 2, an integrated door unit 4, and an inner frame assembly 7 (a plastic frame, a gaming machine frame) as its main body. The integrated door unit 4 is located on the foremost side when viewed from the front facing the player. An inner frame assembly 7 is located on the back side (back side) of the integrated door unit 4, and the outer frame unit 2 is disposed so as to surround the outer side of the inner frame assembly 7.

  The outer frame unit 2 is a structure in which wood and metal materials are combined in a vertically long rectangular shape. The outer frame unit 2 has a fastener such as a screw attached to an island facility (not shown) in the game hall. It is used and fixed. In the vertically long rectangular outer frame unit 2, wood is used for a portion corresponding to the upper and lower short sides, and a metal material is used for a portion corresponding to the left and right long sides.

  The integrated door unit 4 has a structure in which the tray unit 6 is integrated at a lower position thereof. The integrated door unit 4 and the inner frame assembly 7 are attached to the island facility via the outer frame unit 2, and these operate in an openable manner via a hinge mechanism (not shown). An opening / closing axis of a hinge mechanism (not shown) extends in the vertical direction along the left end as viewed from the front of the pachinko machine 1.

  A unified lock unit 9 is provided on the inner side of the right edge (the left edge in FIG. 2) of the inner frame assembly 7 when viewed from the front in FIG. Correspondingly, a locking tool (not shown) is also provided on the right side edge (back side) of the integrated door unit 4 and the outer frame unit 2. As shown in FIG. 1, in the state where the integrated door unit 4 and the inner frame assembly 7 are closed with respect to the outer frame unit 2, the unified lock unit 9 on the back side of the integrated door unit 4 and the inner frame assembly together with the locking device. 7 cannot be opened.

  A cylinder lock 6 a with a key hole is provided on the right edge of the tray unit 6. For example, when an administrator of the game hall inserts a dedicated key into the keyhole and twists the cylinder lock 6a clockwise, the unified lock unit 9 operates and the integrated door unit 4 can be opened together with the inner frame assembly 7. . If these are opened from the outer frame unit 2 to the front side (moved like a door), the back side of the pachinko machine 1 is exposed on the front side.

  On the other hand, when the cylinder lock 6a is twisted counterclockwise, only the locking of the integrated door unit 4 is released while the inner frame assembly 7 remains locked, and the integrated door unit 4 can be opened. When the integrated door unit 4 is opened to the front side, the game board unit 8 is directly exposed, and in this state, the manager of the game hall can remove obstacles such as ball clogging in the board surface. When the integrated door unit 4 is opened, the tray unit 6 is also opened to the front side.

  The pachinko machine 1 includes the game board unit 8 as a game unit. The game board unit 8 is supported by the inner frame assembly 7 behind (inside) the integrated door unit 4. The game board unit 8 can be attached to and detached from the inner frame assembly 7 with the integrated door unit 4 opened to the front side, for example. The integrated door unit 4 is formed with a vertically oval window 4a at the center thereof, and a glass unit 4b is mounted in the window 4a. The glass unit 4b is a combination of two transparent plates (glass plates) cut in accordance with the shape of the window 4a, for example. The glass unit 4b is attached to the back side of the integrated door unit 4 via a fixture (not shown). A game area 8a (board surface, game board) is formed on the front surface of the game board unit 8, and this game area 8a is visible to the player from the front side through the window 4a. When the integrated door unit 4 is closed, a space in which a game ball can flow down is formed between the inner surface of the glass unit 4b and the board surface.

  The saucer unit 6 has a shape protruding from the integrated door unit 4 to the front side as a whole, and an upper plate 6b is formed on the upper surface thereof. The upper plate 6b can store a game ball (rental ball) lent to a player and a game ball (prize ball) acquired by winning a prize. In the tray unit 6, a lower tray 6c is formed at the lower position of the upper tray 6b. The lower tray 6c stores game balls that are further paid out when the upper tray 6b is full. The pachinko machine 1 according to the present embodiment is a so-called CR machine (model connected to the CR unit), and the game balls borrowed by the player are separately received from the payout unit 172 on the back side separately from the prize balls. 6b or lower pan 6c).

  A lending operation unit 14 is provided on the upper surface of the tray unit 6, and a ball lending button 10 and a return button 12 are arranged on the lending operation unit 14. When a player operates the ball lending button 10 with a valuable medium (for example, a magnetic recording medium, a storage IC built-in medium, etc.) inserted in a CR unit (not shown), the number corresponding to a predetermined frequency unit (for example, 5 degrees). (For example, 125) game balls are lent out. For this reason, a frequency display unit (not shown) is arranged on the upper surface of the lending operation unit 14, and the remaining frequency of the valuable medium put in the CR unit is displayed on this frequency display unit. The player can receive the return of the valuable medium with the remaining frequency by operating the return button 12. Although the CR machine is taken as an example in the present embodiment, the pachinko machine 1 may be a cash machine (a model not connected to the CR unit) different from the CR machine.

  Further, on the upper surface of the tray unit 6, an upper dish ball removal button 6d is provided in front of the upper dish 6b in the upper position, and a lower dish ball removal lever 6e is provided in the center of the lower dish 6c. Is installed. The player can cause the game balls stored in the upper plate 6b to flow down to the lower plate 6c by, for example, pressing the upper plate ball removing button 6d. Further, the player can drop the game balls stored in the lower tray 6c downward and discharge them by sliding the lower tray ball removal lever 6e to the left, for example. The discharged game ball is received by, for example, a ball receiving box (not shown).

  A handle unit 16 is installed on the lower right side of the tray unit 6. The player operates the handle unit 16 to operate the launch control board set 174 and can launch (shoot) a game ball toward the game area 8a (ball launcher). The launched game ball rises from the lower edge portion of the game board unit 8 along the left edge portion, is guided by an outer band (not shown), and is thrown into the game area 8a. A large number of obstacle nails, windmills (without reference numerals in the drawing) and the like are arranged in the game area 8a, and the thrown-in game balls flow down in the game area 8a while being guided and guided by the obstacle nails and the windmill. The configuration of the game area 8a (board surface, game board) will be further described later with reference to another drawing.

[Configuration of the front of the frame]
The integrated door unit 4 is provided with a left top lens unit 47 and an upper right illumination unit 49 as components for production. Among these, the left top lens unit 47 incorporates a glass frame top lamp 46 and a left glass frame decoration lamp 48, and the upper right electrical decoration unit 49 incorporates a right glass frame decoration lamp 50. In addition, left and right glass frame decoration lamps 52 are installed in the integrated door unit 4 so as to be connected to the lower part of the left top lens unit 47 and the upper right illumination unit 49, respectively. It extends from the left and right edges of the integrated door unit 4 to the front surface of the tray unit 6. In the integrated door unit 4, the glass frame top lamp 46 and the left and right glass frame decoration lamps 48, 50, 52 and the like are arranged so as to surround the glass unit 4 b.

  The various lamps 46, 48, 50, and 52 described above perform effects by, for example, the light emission of the built-in LEDs (lighting and blinking, change in luminance gradation, change in color tone, and the like). Further, on the upper part of the integrated door unit 4, speakers on the glass frame 54 and 55 are incorporated in the left top lens unit 47 and the upper right illumination unit 49, respectively. On the other hand, an outer frame speaker 56 is incorporated in the lower left position of the outer frame unit 2. These speakers 54, 55, and 56 output sound effects, BGM, voice, etc. (sound in general) and execute effects.

  In the center of the tray unit 6, an effect switching button 45 is installed at a position in front of the upper plate 6b. The effect switching button 45 has, for example, a combination of a push-type circular button and a rotary jog ring (jog dial) around it. The player switches the contents of the effect (for example, the background screen displayed on the liquid crystal display 42) by pushing or rotating the effect switching button 45, or during the change of the symbol, the display of the big hit, or the like During the big hit game, some kind of effect (notice effect, probability change promotion effect, promotion effect while playing a big role, etc.) can be generated.

[Configuration on the back side]
As shown in FIG. 2, on the back side of the pachinko machine 1, there are a power supply control unit 162, a main control board unit 170, a dispensing device unit 172, a flow path unit 173, a launch control board set 174, and a dispensing control board unit 176. A back cover unit 178 and the like are installed. In addition, on the back side of the pachinko machine 1, various electronic devices (including a control computer not shown) constituting the power supply system and control system of the pachinko machine 1, an external terminal board 160, a power cord (power plug) 164, A ground wire (ground terminal) 166, connection wiring (not shown), and the like are installed.

  The payout device unit 172 includes, for example, a prize ball tank 172a and a prize ball case (no reference symbol), and the prize ball tank 172a is installed on the upper edge (back side) of the inner frame assembly 7. In this state, game balls replenished from a replenishment route (not shown) can be stored. The game balls stored in the prize ball tank 172a are guided to a prize ball case through an upper prize ball basket (not shown). The flow path unit 173 guides the game ball sent out from the payout unit 172 toward the tray unit 6 on the front side.

  The external terminal board 160 is for connecting the pachinko machine 1 to an external electronic device (for example, a data display device, a hall computer, etc.). From the external terminal board 160, the game progress of the pachinko machine 1 is achieved. Various external information signals (for example, award ball information, door opening information, symbol determination number information, jackpot information, start opening information, etc.) indicating the state and maintenance state are output to an external electronic device. Yes.

  The power cord 164 secures a power source (electric power) necessary for the operation of the pachinko machine 1 by being connected to, for example, a power source device (for example, AC 24V) installed in an island facility of a game arcade. The ground wire 166 is also connected to a ground terminal installed in the island facility to secure the ground (ground) of the pachinko machine 1.

  FIG. 3 is a front view showing the game board unit 8 alone. The game board unit 8 includes a game board 8b serving as a base, and a game area 8a is formed on the front side of the game board 8b. The game board 8b is made of, for example, a transparent resin plate. When the game board unit 8 is fixed to the inner frame assembly 7, the front surface of the game board 8b is parallel to the glass unit 4b. On the front surface of the game board 8b, the above-described game area 8a is formed inside a launch rail (not indicated by reference numeral) installed in a substantially circular shape.

  In the game area 8a, a winning device unit 190, a variable winning device 30 and the like are installed in addition to the start gate 20 and the normal winning ports 22 and 24. The winning device unit 190 includes the ball sorting device 200 and the start winning port unit 300. The game balls that have been driven into the game area 8a randomly pass through the start gate 20 in the process of flowing down, win the normal winning holes 22 and 24, or pass through the ball sorter 200, Or enter the starting prize opening unit 300. Note that the start winning port unit 300 has, for example, two start winning ports (not shown in FIG. 3) arranged on the left and right sides, and as indicated by broken arrows in FIG. The game balls distributed by the ball distribution device 200 can enter either the left or right start winning opening in the starting winning opening unit 300.

  Of the game balls that have been struck, the game balls that have passed through the start gate 20 continue to flow down in the game area 8 a, but either enter the normal winning ports 22, 24 or left or right in the starting winning port unit 300. The game balls that have entered the starting prize opening are collected to the back side of the game board unit 8 through an opening (not shown) formed in the game board 8b. In addition, since the structure of the winning device unit 190 including the ball sorting device 200 and the start winning port unit 300 can be applied, a detailed description thereof is omitted here.

  As described above, the start winning opening unit 300 has two start winning openings (not shown) on the left and right, but in this example, the variable start winning apparatus 28 corresponds to the right start winning opening. is set up. The variable start winning device 28 has, for example, a pair of left and right movable pieces 28b. These movable pieces 28b are operated by a link mechanism using, for example, a solenoid (not shown), for example, on the board surface (the front surface of the game board 8b). ) To reciprocate in the left-right direction. Such a reciprocating operation corresponds to an operation of changing the width of the inflow path of the game ball formed between the pair of movable pieces 28b, and in the present embodiment, this is referred to as an opening / closing operation. The variable start winning device 28 operates when a predetermined condition is satisfied (when a normal symbol is stopped and displayed over a stop display time in a winning manner), and performs the above opening / closing operation.

  The opening / closing operation of the pair of movable pieces 28b is performed in the following manner. That is, as shown by the solid line in the figure, the left and right movable pieces 28b are in the non-operating position with the tip facing upward, and the opening width through which the game ball can flow between the movable pieces 28b is narrowed at this time. It is in the state. At this time, it is not easy for the variable start winning device 28 to enter the ball, but it is possible to generate the ball. That is, a game ball can flow from above the pair of left and right movable pieces 28b. For example, a game ball released from the ball sorting apparatus 200 can flow between the pair of left and right movable pieces 28b.

  On the other hand, when the variable start winning device 28 is activated, the left and right movable pieces 28b are displaced (expanded) from the non-actuated position toward the open position, as indicated by the two-dot chain line in the figure. The width of the inflow passage formed between them is expanded to the left and right. During this time, the variable start winning device 28 is in a state where the inflow of the game ball is facilitated, and it is possible to easily generate the ball as compared with the non-operating state. When the variable start winning device 28 is operated, in addition to the game balls distributed by the ball distribution device 200, game balls that have flowed down the right side of the game area 8a can flow in.

  The start winning opening unit 300 is provided with a pair of fixed pieces 302 a on the left side of the variable start winning device 28. The pair of fixed pieces 302a correspond to the left start winning opening in the winning device unit 190 (but not the winning opening itself).

  The pair of fixed pieces 302a also form an inflow path for game balls therebetween, but the width is always fixed. Although the width of the pair of movable pieces 28b is fixed, game balls can flow in from above the movable pieces 28b. For example, the game balls released from the ball sorting apparatus 200 are not shown in the left start winning prize. After entering the mouth, it can flow between the pair of left and right fixed pieces 302a.

  The arrangement of the obstacle nails installed on the game board 8b is basically a mode in which it is easy to guide the flow of the game balls toward the ball sorting device 200 and the start winning opening unit 300. It does not flow into the sorting device 200 or the left and right start winning awards (between the pair of fixed pieces 302a or the pair of movable pieces 28b), and the inflow of game balls is generated randomly.

  The above variable winning device 30 operates when a prescribed condition is satisfied (when a special symbol is stopped and displayed for a stop display time in a mode other than non-winning), and a big winning opening (no reference sign). Enables to enter the game (winning) (special electric accessory). The variable winning device 30 is a winning device provided at the lower position of the right portion in the game area 8a (so-called right attacker). In this embodiment, the variable winning device 30 is arranged on the right side of the ball sorting device 200. . The variable winning device 30 has, for example, one opening / closing member 30a, and this opening / closing member 30a reciprocates in the front-rear direction with respect to the board surface by the action of a link mechanism using a solenoid (not shown), for example. As shown in the figure, the opening / closing member 30a is in the closed position (closed state) along the board surface, and at this time, winning in the big winning opening is always impossible (the big winning opening is closed). When the variable winning device 30 is operated, the opening / closing member 30a is displaced so as to fall forward with its lower end edge as a hinge, thereby opening the large winning opening (open state). During this time, the variable winning device 30 is in a state where it is not difficult for the game balls to flow in, and an event of winning a prize to the big winning opening can be generated. At this time, the opening / closing member 30a also functions as a member for guiding the inflow of the game ball to the special winning opening. The game ball that has flowed into the big winning opening passes through a count switch (not shown in FIG. 3), detects the ball (winning), and then passes to the back side of the game board unit 8 through a collection passage (no reference sign). Collected.

  In the game board unit 8, the effect unit 40 is installed from the center position to the right side portion. The production unit 40 has an upper edge portion 40a that functions as a guide member that changes the flow direction of the game ball, and includes various decorative parts 40b, 40c, 40k, 40m, and the like inside. The decorative parts 40b, 40c, 40k, and 40m improve the decorativeness of the game board unit 8 by three-dimensional modeling and, for example, emit transmitted light by a built-in light emitter (LED or the like), thereby performing a stunning operation. can do. In addition, a liquid crystal display 42 (image display) is installed inside the effect unit 40, and various effect images are displayed on the liquid crystal display 42, including effect symbols corresponding to special symbols. . In this way, the game board unit 8 impresses the player with the characteristics of the pachinko machine 1 based on the configuration of the board surface and the decorativeness of the effect unit 40. Further, when the game board 8b is a transparent resin board (for example, an acrylic board) as in the present embodiment, various decorative bodies (including a movable body and a light emitting body) arranged not only on the front side but also behind the game board 8b. ) Can be added.

In addition, a drive source (for example, a motor, a solenoid, etc.) is attached to the interior of the effect unit 40 together with a movable body 40f (for example, a heart-shaped ornament). The effect movable body 40f can execute an effect accompanied by an operation of a tangible object in addition to an effect using an image by the liquid crystal display 42 and an effect by a light emitter. Due to the effects using these movable bodies 40f, appealing power different from the effects using two-dimensional images can be exhibited.

  A ball guide passage 40d is formed at the left edge of the effect unit 40, and two upper and lower rolling stages 40e are formed at the lower edge thereof. The ball guide passage 40d is opened obliquely upward to the left in the game area 8a. When a game ball flowing down in the game area 8a randomly flows into the ball guide passage 40d, the ball guide passage 40d passes through the inside and passes through the upper part. It is discharged onto the rolling stage 40e. In both the upper and lower stages, the upper surface of the rolling stage 40e has a smooth curved surface. Here, the game ball can roll in the left-right direction. The game ball that has rolled on the upper rolling stage 40e eventually rolls to the lower rolling stage 40e and then flows down into the lower gaming area 8a.

  An inflow passage 40g is formed at a substantially central position of the upper rolling stage 40e, and game balls can randomly flow into the inflow passage 40g from the upper rolling stage 40e. The inflow passage 40g is formed by extending the lower edge portion of the effect unit 40 downward and then bent in an L shape toward the front side, and a ball discharge port 40h is formed at the end thereof. The ball discharge port 40h is opened toward the front surface, and the opening position is located immediately above the ball sorting apparatus 200. For this reason, the game ball that has flowed into the inflow passage 40g from above the rolling stage 40e is discharged from the ball discharge port 40h and easily flows into the ball sorter 200 immediately below it (however, it does not always flow in). .)

  In addition, an out port 32 is formed in the game area 8 a, and game balls that have not entered (winned) in various winning ports are finally collected through the out port 32 to the back side of the game board unit 8. In addition, all game balls that have been driven into the game area 8a, including the game balls that have entered the normal winning ports 22, 24, the start winning port unit 300, and the variable winning device 30, are collected to the back side of the game board unit 8. Is done. The collected game balls are discharged out of the frame from the back side of the pachinko machine 1 through an out passage assembly (not shown), and further join a supply path of an island facility (not shown).

  FIG. 4 is an enlarged front view showing a part of the game board unit 8 (lower right position in the window 4a). That is, the game board unit 8 is provided with a normal symbol display device 33 and a normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a at the lower right position in the window 4a, for example, as well as a first special symbol display device 34 and a second special symbol display device. 35 and a game status display device 38 are provided. Among these, the normal symbol display device 33, for example, turns on two lamps (LEDs) alternately to display the normal symbols variably, and stops and displays the normal symbols when the lamps are turned on or off. The normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a displays 0 to 4 memory numbers depending on, for example, a combination of turning off, lighting, or blinking of two lamps (LEDs). For example, in a display mode in which both lamps are extinguished, a memory number of 0 is displayed, in a display mode in which one lamp is lit, a memory number of 1 is displayed, and in a display mode in which the same one lamp is blinked. In the display mode in which two stored numbers are displayed, and in addition to blinking one lamp, the other lamp is lit, three stored numbers are displayed, and in the display mode in which the two lamps are flashed together, the stored number is four. For example, the individual is displayed. Here, although two lamps (LEDs) are used here, the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a may be configured using four lamps (LEDs). In this case, the number of working memories can be displayed by the number of lamps to be lit.

  The normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a changes to the display mode after being incremented one by one in the sense of memorizing the occurrence of an operation lottery trigger each time a game ball passes through the start gate 20. Then, every time a change of the normal symbol is started with the passage (up to 4) as a trigger, the display mode is changed by one by one. In the present embodiment, when the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a is not lit (the number of memories is 0), the game ball passes through the start gate 20 in a state where the normal symbol can already start to change (during stop display). The display mode does not change. That is, the memorized number (maximum 4) represented by the display mode of the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a represents the number of passages at which the variation of the normal symbol has not started yet.

  In addition, the first special symbol display device 34 and the second special symbol display device 35 display, for example, a change state and a stopped state of the corresponding first special symbol or second special symbol by 7 segment LED (with dots), respectively. (Symbol display means). The first special symbol display device 34 and the second special symbol display device 35 may have a form in which a plurality of dot LEDs are arranged geometrically (for example, in a circular shape).

  Further, the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a and the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a have 0 to 4 each, for example, depending on a display mode constituted by a combination of extinction or lighting and blinking of two lamps (LEDs). Is stored (memory number display means). For example, in a display mode in which both lamps are extinguished, a memory number of 0 is displayed, in a display mode in which one lamp is lit, a memory number of 1 is displayed, and in a display mode in which the same one lamp is blinked. In the display mode in which two stored numbers are displayed, and in addition to blinking one lamp, the other lamp is lit, three stored numbers are displayed, and in the display mode in which the two lamps are flashed together, the stored number is four. For example, the individual is displayed.

  The first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a is 1 in the sense that it memorizes that a winning to the left starting winning opening has occurred each time a game ball flows between the pair of fixed pieces 302a in the starting winning opening unit 300. The display mode is increased one by one (up to a maximum of four), and each time the special symbol starts to change with the winning, the display mode is decreased one by one. Further, the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a is one in the sense of storing that a winning to the right starting winning opening has occurred each time a game ball flows into the variable starting winning device 28 in the starting winning opening unit 300. Each time the display mode is increased (up to a maximum of 4), each time the change of the special symbol is started with the winning, the display mode is decreased one by one. In the present embodiment, when the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a is not lit (the number of memories is 0), the pair of fixed pieces 302a of the pair of fixed pieces 302a is in a state in which the first special symbol can already start to change (when stopped). Even if a game ball flows in between, the display mode does not change. When the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a is not lit (the number of memories is 0), the game ball flows into the variable start winning device 28 in a state in which the second special symbol can already start to change (during stop display). However, the display mode does not change. That is, the number of memories (maximum 4) represented by the display mode of each special symbol operation memory lamp 34a, 35a is the number of winnings that have not yet started to change in the first special symbol or the second special symbol. Represents.

  The game state display device 38 includes six LEDs corresponding to, for example, jackpot type display lamps 38a, 38b, 38c, probability variation state display lamp 38d, time-short state display lamp 38e, and launch position designation lamp 38f. Yes. In the present embodiment, the normal symbol display device 33, the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a, the first special symbol display device 34, the second special symbol display device 35, the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a, and the second special symbol are described. The symbol operation memory lamp 35a and the game state display device 38 are attached to the game board unit 8 in a state of being mounted on one integrated display board 89.

[Control configuration]
Next, a configuration related to control of the pachinko machine 1 will be described. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing various electronic devices equipped in the pachinko machine 1. The pachinko machine 1 includes a main control device 70 (main control computer) that serves as the center of the control operation. The main control device 70 mainly has a function of controlling the progress of the game in the pachinko machine 1. Yes. The main controller 70 is built in the main control board unit 170 described above.

  The main controller 70 is equipped with a circuit board (main control board) on which a main control CPU 72 as a central processing unit is mounted. The main control CPU 72 includes a ROM 74, a RAM ( RWM) 76 and other semiconductor memories are integrated as an LSI. The main controller 70 is equipped with a random number generator 75 and a sampling circuit 77. Among these, the random number generator 75 generates a hardware random number (for example, 0 to 65535 in decimal notation) for the big symbol determination of the special symbol lottery or the normal symbol lottery, and the random number generated here is generated. Is input to the main control CPU 72 through the sampling circuit 77. In addition, the main controller 70 is equipped with peripheral ICs such as an input / output (I / O) port 79, a clock generation circuit (not shown), a counter / timer circuit (CTC), etc., and these are circuited together with the main control CPU 72. It is mounted on the board. A signal transmission path, a power supply path, a control bus, and the like are formed as wiring patterns on the circuit board (or the inner layer portion).

  The start gate 20 described above is integrally provided with a gate switch 78 for detecting the passage of a game ball. The game board unit 8 includes a left start winning port switch 80, a right start winning port switch 82 and a count switch corresponding to the left start winning port (not shown), the variable start winning device 28 and the variable winning device 30, respectively. 84 is equipped. Each start winning port switch 80, 82 is for detecting a winning of a game ball to the left start winning port and the variable start winning device 28 (right start winning port). The count switch 84 is for detecting the winning of a game ball to the variable winning device 30 (large winning opening) and counting the number. Similarly, the game board unit 8 is equipped with a winning port switch 86 for detecting the winning of a game ball to the normal winning ports 22 and 24. Here, a configuration using a common winning opening switch 86 for all the normal winning openings 22 and 24 is given as an example, but for example, separate winning opening switches 86 are installed on the left and right sides of the board, and the left winning opening switch is provided. In 86, it is possible to detect the winning of a game ball with respect to the normal winning port 22 positioned on the left side of the board, and the right winning port switch 86 may detect the winning of the game ball with respect to the normal winning port 24 positioned on the right side of the board. .

  In any case, the winning detection signals of these switches 78 to 86 are input to the main control CPU 72 via an input / output driver (not shown). In the present embodiment, a winning detection signal from the gate switch 78, the count switch 84, and the winning opening switch 86 is transmitted via the panel relay terminal plate 87 and the panel relay terminal plate 87 due to the configuration of the game board unit 8. Are provided with wiring patterns and connection terminals for relaying each winning detection signal.

  The above-mentioned normal symbol display device 33, normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a, first special symbol display device 34, second special symbol display device 35, first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a, second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a and game The state display device 38 is controlled in display operation based on a control signal from the main control CPU 72. The main control CPU 72 outputs control signals for the display devices 33, 34, 35, 38 and the lamps 33a, 34a, 35a according to the progress of the game, and controls the lighting state of each LED. The display devices 33, 34, 35, and 38 and the lamps 33a, 34a, and 35a are installed in the game board unit 8 in a state of being mounted on one integrated display board 89 as described above. A control signal is transmitted from the main control CPU 72 to the display substrate 89 through the panel relay terminal board 87.

  Further, the game board unit 8 is provided with a normal electric accessory solenoid 88 and a big prize opening solenoid 90 corresponding to the variable start winning device 28 and the variable winning device 30, respectively. These solenoids 88 and 90 are operated (excited) based on a control signal from the main control CPU 72 to open and close (activate) the variable start winning device 28 and the variable winning device 30 respectively. The solenoids 88 and 90 also transmit control signals from the main control CPU 72 through the panel relay terminal plate 87 described above.

  In addition, a glass frame opening switch 91 is installed in the glass frame unit 4, and a plastic frame opening switch 93 is installed in the plastic frame assembly 7. When the glass frame unit 4 is opened alone, a contact signal from the glass frame opening switch 91 is input to the main controller 70 (main control CPU 72), and the plastic frame assembly 7 is opened from the outer frame assembly 2. Then, a contact signal from the plastic frame opening switch 93 is input to the main controller 70 (main control CPU 72). The main control CPU 72 can detect the open state of the glass frame unit 4 and the plastic frame assembly 7 from these contact signals. When the main control CPU 72 detects the open state of the glass frame unit 4 and the plastic frame assembly 7, the main control CPU 72 generates a door opening information signal as the external information signal.

  On the back side of the pachinko machine 1, a payout control device 92 is provided. The payout control device 92 (payout control computer) controls the operation of the payout device unit 172 described above. The payout control device 92 is equipped with a circuit board (payout control board) on which a payout control CPU 94 is mounted. The payout control CPU 94 is also an LSI in which a semiconductor memory such as a ROM 96 and a RAM 98 is integrated together with a CPU core (not shown). It is configured. The payout control device 92 (payout control CPU 94) controls the operation of the payout device unit 172 based on the prize ball instruction command from the main control CPU 72, and executes the payout operation of the requested number of game balls. The main control CPU 72 generates a prize ball information signal as the above external information signal together with the prize ball instruction command.

  In a prize ball case (not shown) of the payout device unit 172, a payout device substrate 100 is installed together with a payout motor 102 (for example, a stepping motor). The payout device substrate 100 is provided with a drive circuit for the payout motor 102. Yes. The payout device substrate 100 specifically controls the rotation angle of the payout motor 102 based on the payout number instruction signal from the payout control device 92 (the payout control CPU 94), and pays out the designated number of game balls from the prize ball case. Let it come out. The paid-out game balls are sent to the tray unit 6 through the payout flow path in the flow path unit 173.

  Further, for example, a payout path ball cut switch 104 is installed at an upstream position of the prize ball case, and a payout counting switch 106 is installed at a downstream position of the payout motor 102. When a prize ball is actually paid out by driving the payout motor 102, a count signal from the payout count switch 106 is input to the payout device substrate 100 each time. Further, when a ball break occurs at an upstream position of the prize ball case, a contact signal from the payout path ball break switch 104 is input to the payout device substrate 100. The dispensing device substrate 100 transmits the input count signal and contact signal to the dispensing control device 92 (dispensing control CPU 94). The payout control CPU 94 can detect the actual payout number and the out-of-ball state based on the signal received from the payout device substrate 100.

  Further, the pachinko machine 1 is provided with a full tank switch 161, for example, inside the lower plate 6c (the position of the bowl as viewed from the front of the pachinko machine 1). The prize balls (game balls) that are actually paid out are discharged to the upper plate 6b through the flow path unit 173. When the upper plate 6b is full of game balls, As described above, it flows into the lower plate 6c. Further, when the lower plate 6c is filled with game balls, the full tank switch 161 is turned ON, and a full tank detection signal is input to the payout control device 92 (payout control CPU 94). In response to this, even if the payout control CPU 94 receives a prize ball instruction command from the main control CPU 72, it temporarily suspends further prize ball operations, and stores the unpaid prize ball remaining number in the RAM 98. Note that the RAM 98 can be backed up even when the power is cut off, so that even if a power failure (including momentary power failure) occurs during the game, the information on the number of remaining unsold prize balls will not be lost. .

  Further, on the back side of the pachinko machine 1, a firing solenoid 110 is installed together with the launch control board 108. In addition, a ball feeding solenoid 111 is provided in the tray unit 6. The launch control board 108, the launch solenoid 110, and the ball feed solenoid 111 constitute the launch control board set 174 described above, and the launch control board 108 is provided with drive circuits for the launch solenoid 110 and the ball feed solenoid 111. ing. Among these, the ball feed solenoid 111 performs an operation of sending out the game balls stored in the tray unit 6 one by one to a predetermined launch position in the launcher case. In addition, the launch solenoid 110 hits the game ball sent to the launch position, and performs the operation of firing game balls one by one continuously (intermittently) toward the game area 8 as described above. Note that the game ball is fired at intervals of, for example, about 0.6 seconds (within 100 per minute).

  On the other hand, the grip unit 16 located on the front side of the pachinko machine 1 is provided with a firing lever volume 112, a touch sensor 114, and a firing stop switch 116. Among these, the firing lever volume 112 generates an analog signal proportional to the operation amount (so-called stroke) of the firing handle by the player. The touch sensor 114 detects that the player's body is touching the grip unit 16 (launching handle) from the change in capacitance, and outputs a detection signal. The firing stop switch 116 generates a firing stop signal (contact signal) in accordance with the player's operation.

  The above receiving tray unit 6 is provided with a launch relay terminal plate 118, and each signal from the launch lever volume 112, the touch sensor 114, and the launch stop switch 116 is sent via the launch relay terminal plate 118. Sent to. The drive signal from the launch control board 108 is applied to the ball feed solenoid 111 via the launch relay terminal board 118. When the player operates the firing handle, an analog signal (which may be an encoded digital signal) is generated by the firing lever volume 112 according to the operation amount, and the firing solenoid 110 is driven based on the signal at this time. Thereby, the strength of launching a game ball is adjusted according to the operation amount of the player. The drive circuit of the firing control board 108 stops driving the firing solenoid 110 when the detection signal from the touch sensor 114 is off (low level) or when the firing stop signal is input from the firing stop switch 116. To do. In addition to this, the launch relay terminal plate 118 is connected with a lending device connection terminal plate 120 such as a game ball, and when the above-mentioned CR unit is not connected to this lending device connection terminal plate 120 such as a game ball, the launch is similarly performed. The drive circuit of the control board 108 stops driving the firing solenoid 110.

  The tray unit 6 includes a frequency display board 122 and a rental / return switch board 123. Of these, the frequency display board 122 is provided with the display of the frequency display unit (7-segment LED for 3 digits). In addition, switch modules connected to the ball lending button 10 and the return button 12 are mounted on the lending / return switch board 123, and when the ball lending button 10 or the return button 12 is operated, the operation signal is lended. And the return switch board 123 via the game ball lending device connection terminal board 120 to the CR unit. Further, a frequency signal indicating the remaining frequency of the valuable medium is transmitted from the CR unit to the frequency display board 122 via the gaming ball lending device connection terminal board 120. A display circuit (not shown) on the frequency display board 122 drives the display unit based on the frequency signal, and displays the remaining frequency of the valuable medium as a numerical value. In addition, when no valuable medium is inserted into the CR unit, or when the remaining frequency of the inserted valuable medium becomes zero, the display circuit of the frequency display board 122 drives the display to display a demonstration (value medium). Display for urging the user to input.

  Further, the pachinko machine 1 includes an effect control device 124 (effect control computer) as a control configuration. The effect control device 124 controls the effect accompanying the progress of the game in the pachinko machine 1. The effect control device 124 is also equipped with a circuit board (composite sub-control board) on which an effect control CPU 126 that is a central processing unit is mounted. The effect control CPU 126 includes a CPU core (not shown) and a semiconductor memory such as a ROM 128 and a RAM 130 as a main memory. The production control device 124 is provided at a position covered with the back cover unit 178 on the back side of the pachinko machine 1.

  The effect control device 124 is equipped with an input / output driver (not shown) and various peripheral ICs, as well as a lamp drive circuit 132 and an acoustic drive circuit 134. The production control CPU 126 performs production control based on the production command transmitted from the main control CPU 72, and gives commands to the lamp driving circuit 132 and the acoustic driving circuit 134 to emit various lamps 46 to 52 and the panel lamp 53. Or a process of actually outputting sound effects, voices, and the like from the speakers 54, 55, and 56.

  The effect control device 124 and the main control device 70 are connected to each other via, for example, a communication harness (not shown). However, the communication between these is performed only in one direction from the main control device 70 to the effect control device 124, and communication in the reverse direction is not performed. The communication harness may adopt a parallel format according to the bus widths of various commands transmitted from the main control device 70 to the effect control device 124, and each driver IC (I / O). A serial format may be adopted according to the hardware configuration.

  The lamp driving circuit 132 includes a switching element such as a PWM (pulse width modulation) IC or a MOSFET (not shown). The lamp driving circuit 132 switches driving voltages (or duty switching) applied to various lamps including LEDs. ) And manage the operation such as light emission and flashing. In addition to the glass frame top lamps 46 and 48, the glass frame side lamp 50, and the tray lamp 52, the various lamps include a decoration / production board lamp 53 installed in the game board unit 8. The panel lamp 53 corresponds to an LED incorporated in the above-described effect unit, or an LED incorporated in the variable start winning device 28, the variable winning device 30, or the like. Here, although the example in which the saucer lamp 52 is connected to the glass frame decorating board 136 is given, a saucer illuminated board is installed in the saucer unit 6, and the saucer lamp 52 is interposed via the saucer illuminated board. It may be configured to be connected to the lamp driving circuit 132.

  The acoustic drive circuit 134 is, for example, a sound generator that includes a sound ROM, an acoustic control IC, an amplifier, and the like (not shown). The acoustic drive circuit 134 drives the upper speaker 54 and the lower speaker 56 to perform acoustic output. .

  In the present embodiment, a glass frame decoration board 136 is installed on the inner surface of the glass frame unit 4, and drive signals from the lamp drive circuit 132 and the acoustic drive circuit 134 pass through the glass frame decoration board 136 and various lamps 46. To 52 and speakers 54, 55, and 56. Also, the effect switching button 45 is connected to the glass frame decorating board 136, and when the player operates the effect switching button 45, the contact signal is sent to the effect control device 124 through the glass frame decorating board 136. Entered. Furthermore, the jog dial 45a is connected to the glass frame decorating board 136, and when the player rotates the jog dial 45a, the rotation signal is input to the effect control device 124 through the glass frame decorating board 136. . In addition, although the example which connected the effect switch button 45 and the jog dial 45a to the glass frame decor substrate 136 is given here, when the above-described saucer decor board is installed, the effect switch button 45 and the jog dial 45a are the saucer decor. It may be connected to the substrate.

  In addition, a panel board 138 is installed in the game board unit 8, and a movable body solenoid 57 is connected to the panel board 138 in addition to the panel lamp 53. The movable body solenoid 57 drives the movable body 40f, for example, via a link mechanism (not shown). The driving signal from the lamp driving circuit 132 is applied to the panel lamp 53 and the movable body solenoid 57 via the panel electric decoration board 138, respectively.

  The liquid crystal display 42 is installed on the back side of the game board unit 8, and the display screen is visible through a substantially rectangular opening formed in the game board unit 8. Further, an inverter board 158 is installed on the back side of the game board unit 8, and the inverter board 158 generates an AC power source that is applied to a backlight (for example, a cold cathode tube) of the liquid crystal display 42. Further, an effect display control device 144 is installed on the back side of the game board unit 8, and the display operation by the liquid crystal display 42 is controlled by the effect display control device 144. The effect display control device 144 is equipped with a display control CPU 146 that is a general-purpose central processing unit and a circuit board (effect display control board) on which a VDP 152 that is a display processor is mounted. Among these, the display control CPU 146 is configured as an LSI in which semiconductor memories such as a ROM 148 and a RAM 150 are integrated together with a CPU core (not shown). The VDP 152 is configured as an LSI in which a semiconductor core such as an image ROM 154 and a VRAM 156 is integrated with a processor core (not shown). The VRAM 156 can use a part of the storage area as a frame buffer.

  The ROM 128 of the effect control CPU 126 stores a basic program related to effect control, and the effect control CPU 126 executes effect control according to this program. The production control includes production control using various lamps 46 to 53 and speakers 54, 55, and 56 as described above, and production control by image display using the liquid crystal display 42. . The effect control CPU 126 transmits basic information (for example, effect number) related to the effect to the display control CPU 146, and the display control CPU 146 that receives the information transmits a specific effect image based on the basic information. Control the display.

  The display control CPU 146 outputs a more detailed control signal to the VDP 152. Receiving this, the VDP 152 accesses the image ROM 154 based on the control signal, reads necessary image data therefrom, and transfers it to the VRAM 156. Further, the VDP 152 expands the image data on the VRAM 156 for each frame (still image per unit time) in a frame buffer, and each pixel (full color pixel) of the liquid crystal display 42 is expanded based on the buffered image data. Drive individually.

  In addition, a power supply control unit 162 (power supply control means) is provided on the back side of the plastic frame assembly 7. The power supply control unit 162 has a built-in switching power supply circuit. When external power (for example, AC 24V) is taken from the island facility through the power cord 164, necessary power (for example, DC + 34V, + 12V) can be generated therefrom. The electric power generated by the power supply control unit 162 is distributed to the main control device 70, the payout control device 92, the effect control device 124, and the inverter board 158. Furthermore, power is supplied to the launch control board 108 via the payout control device 92, and power is supplied to the CR unit via the game ball rental device connection terminal board 120. The low voltage power for logic (for example, DC + 5V) is generated by a power supply IC (3-terminal regulator or the like) built in each device. Further, as described above, the power supply control unit 164 is grounded (grounded) to the island facility through the ground wire 166.

  The external terminal plate 160 is connected to the payout control device 92, and various external information signals generated by the main control device 70 (main control CPU 72) pass through the payout control device 92 to the external terminal plate 160. Is output to the outside. The main control device 70 (main control CPU 72) and the payout control device 92 (payout control CPU 94) can output an external information signal to the outside of the pachinko machine 1 through the external terminal board 160. The signals output from the external terminal board 160 are collected by, for example, a hall computer (not shown) in a game hall. Here, the configuration via the payout control device 92 is taken as an example, but a configuration in which an external information signal is directly output from the main control device 70 to the external terminal board 160 may be used.

  The above is a configuration example relating to the control of the pachinko machine 1. Next, control processing executed by the main control CPU 72 of the main control device 70 will be described.

[Reset start (main) processing]
When the pachinko machine 1 is powered on, the main control CPU 72 starts a reset start process. The reset start process restores the gaming state based on the backup information saved at the previous power shutdown (so-called power recovery) or conversely clears the backup information, thereby adjusting the initial state of the pachinko machine 1 Process. The reset start process is positioned as a main process (main control program) for guaranteeing a stable gaming operation of the pachinko machine 1 after adjusting the initial state.

  6 and 7 are flowcharts showing a procedure example of the reset start process. Hereinafter, the process performed by the main control CPU 72 will be described step by step.

  Step S101: First, the main control CPU 72 sets the top address of the stack area in the stack pointer.

  Step S102: Subsequently, the main control CPU 72 sets the vector-type interrupt mode (mode 2) and corrects the default RST-type interrupt mode (mode 0). Thus, thereafter, the main control CPU 72 can refer to an arbitrary address (however, the least significant bit is 0) as an interrupt vector and execute a designated interrupt handler.

  Step S103: The main control CPU 72 executes a standby process at reset. This process is for securing a certain standby time (for example, about several thousand ms) at the time of reset start (for example, power-on) and checking the main power-off detection signal during that time. Specifically, when the main control CPU 72 sets the loop counter for the waiting time, the main control CPU 72 bit-checks the input port of the main power-off detection signal while decrementing the value of the loop counter. The main power-off detection signal is input from, for example, a power monitoring IC that is a peripheral device. If the input of the main power-off detection signal is confirmed before the loop counter reaches 0, the main control CPU 72 restarts the process from the beginning. As a result, for example, the system can be protected when a main power switch (not shown) is turned on and off repeatedly within a short time (about 1 to 2 seconds).

  Step S104: Next, the main control CPU 72 permits access to the work area of the RAM 76. Specifically, the RAM protect setting value in the work area is reset (00H). As a result, thereafter, access to the work area of the RAM 76 is permitted.

  Step S105: Also, the main control CPU 72 performs initial setting of a mask register in order to set an interrupt mask. Specifically, a value for enabling the CTC interrupt is stored in the mask register.

  Step S106: The main control CPU 72 refers to the input signal from the previously cleared RAM clear switch and confirms whether or not the RAM clear switch has been operated (switch ON). If the RAM clear switch is not operated (No), step S107 is executed next.

  Step S107: Next, the main control CPU 72 checks whether or not backup information is stored in the RAM 76, that is, whether or not a backup validity determination flag is set. If the backup is normally completed in the previous power-off process and the backup validity determination flag (for example, “A55AH”) is set (Yes), then the main control CPU 72 executes step S108.

  Step S108: The main control CPU 72 executes a sum check on the backup information in the RAM 76. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sum-checks all areas of the work area of the RAM 76 (a user work area including a use-prohibited area and a stack area) except the backup validity determination flag and the sum check buffer. If the result of the sum check is normal (Yes), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S109.

Step S109: The main control CPU 72 resets the backup validity determination flag (for example, “0000H”).
Step S110: Also, the main control CPU 72 clears the command waiting for transmission immediately before the previous power-off occurrence.

  Step S111: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes an effect control return process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 instructs the effect control device 124 to return a command (for example, a model designation command, a special symbol probability state designation command, a special figure destination determination effect command, an effect command when the working memory number is increased, and the action memory number. (Decrease effect command, count counter remaining command, special game state designation command, etc.). In response to this, the effect control device 124 performs the effect state (for example, the internal probability state, the effect symbol display mode, the operation memory count effect display mode, the sound output content, and the various lamps being executed at the time of the previous power shutdown. Light emission state, etc.) can be restored.

  Step S112: The main control CPU 72 executes state return processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sets various values in the work area of the RAM 76 based on the backup information, and the gaming state (for example, the display state of special symbols, the internal probability state, The operation memory contents, various flag states, random number update states, etc.) are restored. Further, the main control CPU 72 restores the backed up PC register value.

  On the other hand, when the RAM clear switch is operated at power-on (step S106: Yes), when the backup validity determination flag is not set (step S107: No), or when the backup information is not normal. (Step S108: No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to Step S113.

Step S113: The main control CPU 72 clears the stored contents other than the use prohibited area of the RAM 76. As a result, the work area and stack area of the RAM 76 are all initialized, and even if valid backup information is stored, the contents are erased.
Step S114: Also, the main control CPU 72 performs initial setting of the RAM 76.

  Step S115: The main control CPU 72 executes an effect control output process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 outputs a command (command necessary for effect control) to be transmitted to the effect control device 124 after the initial setting.

  Step S116: The main control CPU 72 executes a payout control output process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 outputs an instruction command for starting the payout of prize balls to the payout control device 92.

  Step S117: The main control CPU 72 executes CTC initial setting processing, and performs initial setting of a CTC (counter / timer circuit) that is a peripheral device. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sets an interrupt vector register and sets an interrupt count value (for example, 4 ms) in the CTC. As a result, when a CTC interrupt occurs next time, the main control CPU 72 can continue the processing from the program address of the PC register that has been backed up.

  When the above procedure is executed in the reset start process, the main control CPU 72 shifts to the main loop shown in FIG. 7 (connection symbol A → A).

  Step S118, Step S119: The main control CPU 72 executes the power interruption occurrence check process after prohibiting interruption. In this process, the main control CPU 72 performs bit check on the input port of the main power-off detection signal and monitors the occurrence of power-off (decrease in drive voltage). When the power is cut off, the main control CPU 72 clears the output port buffer corresponding to the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 88, the big prize opening solenoid 90, etc., and the entire area excluding the backup validity judgment flag and the sum check buffer in the work area of the RAM 76. Is backed up, and the sum result value is stored in the sum check buffer. Then, the main control CPU 72 stores the above effective value (for example, “A55AH”) in the backup validity determination flag area, prohibits access to the RAM 76, and stops (NOP) the process. On the other hand, if the power shutoff does not occur, the main control CPU 72 next executes step S120. There is also a known programming example in which the CPU executes the process at the time of the occurrence of power interruption as a non-maskable interrupt (NMI) process.

  Step S120: The main control CPU 72 executes an initial value update random number update process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 increments random numbers for updating (changing) initial values of various software random numbers. In this embodiment, jackpot determined random numbers (hardware random numbers) and various random numbers excluding hit determined random numbers (hardware random numbers) corresponding to ordinary symbols (for example, jackpot symbol random numbers, reach determination random numbers, variation pattern determination random numbers, etc.) Is generated in the program. These software random numbers are updated by a loop counter within a predetermined range in another interrupt process (step S201 in FIG. 9). In this process, the initial value of the loop counter (all The random number of may not be the target). The initial value updating random number is used to randomly change the initial value, and in step S120, the initial value updating random number is updated. Note that the reason why step S120 is executed after the interruption is prohibited in step S118 is that the same process is executed in another interrupt management process (step S202 in FIG. 9). ) To prevent the above). As described above, in the present embodiment, the big hit determined random number and the hit determined random number are hardware random numbers generated by the random number generator 75, and the update cycle is faster than the timer interrupt cycle (for example, several ms). Since it is (for example, several μs), it is not necessary to update the big hit determined random number and the initial value of the hit determined random number.

  Step S121, Step S122: The main control CPU 72 permits the interrupt and executes other random number update processing. The random numbers updated by this processing are random numbers (reach determination random numbers, variation pattern determination random numbers, etc.) that are not related to the determination of the winning type (winning type) among software random numbers. This process is performed in the remaining time when a timer interrupt occurs during execution of the main loop and the main control CPU 72 executes another interrupt management process (FIG. 9). The contents of the interrupt management process will be described later.

[Power failure check processing]
FIG. 8 is a flowchart specifically illustrating a procedure example of the power-off occurrence check process.
Step S130: First, the main control CPU 72 sets a condition for checking the occurrence of power interruption. This check condition can be set as an on-counter value for confirming that the main power-off detection signal is continuously output, for example.

  Step S132: Next, the main control CPU 72 reads the main power-off detection switch input port and confirms whether or not the main power-off detection signal is output (checks a specific bit). Although not particularly illustrated, the main power-off detection switch is mounted on the main controller 70, for example, and this main power-off detection switch monitors the drive voltage supplied from the power control unit 162, and the voltage level is monitored. When the voltage falls below the reference voltage, the main power-off detection signal is output. Note that the main power-off detection switch may be built in the power control unit 162. When the main control CPU 72 confirms that the main power-off detection signal is not output at this time (No), the main control CPU 72 exits this process and returns to the reset start process. On the other hand, when it is confirmed that the main power-off detection signal is output (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S134.

  Step S134: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the above check conditions are satisfied. Specifically, for example, 1 is subtracted from the on-counter value set in the previous step S130, and it is confirmed whether or not the result is 0. If the on-counter value is not yet 0 at this time (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to step S132 and reconfirms the main power-off detection switch input port. When the check condition is satisfied by repeating the loop from step S134 to step S132 (step S134: Yes), the main control CPU 72 then proceeds to step S136.

  Step S136: The main control CPU 72 clears the output port buffer corresponding to the test signal terminal and the command control signal in addition to the output port corresponding to the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 88 and the big prize opening solenoid 90 as described above.

Step S138, Step S140: Next, the main control CPU 72 adds the entire contents excluding the backup validity determination flag and the sum check buffer in the work area of the RAM 76 in units of 1 byte, and repeats until the addition is completed for all areas. .
Step S142: When the calculation of the sum is completed for all the areas (Step S140: Yes), the main control CPU 72 stores the sum result value in the sum check buffer.

Step S144: Next, the main control CPU 72 stores the valid value in the backup validity determination flag area as described above.
Step S146: Further, the main control CPU 72 stores “01H” indicating access prohibition in the protect value of the RAM 76, and prohibits access to the work area (including the use prohibition area and the stack area) of the RAM 76.
Step S148: Then, the main control CPU 72 enters a standby loop, and stops all other processes in preparation for shutting off the main power supply. After the main power is cut off, the backup power is supplied from a backup power circuit (not shown) (for example, a circuit including a capacitive element mounted on the main controller 70), so the stored contents of the RAM 76 are lost even after the main power is turned off. Held without. The backup power supply circuit may be incorporated in the power supply control unit 162, for example.

  Through the above processing, all the information stored in the work area of the RAM 76 to be backed up (sum added) is retained in the RAM 76 even after the main power is turned off. The stored memory is restored as backup information when the power is turned off after confirming the normality of the checksum in the previous reset start process (FIG. 6).

[Interrupt management processing (timer interrupt processing)]
Next, interrupt management processing (timer interrupt processing) will be described. FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary procedure of interrupt management processing. The main control CPU 72 executes an interrupt management process every predetermined time (for example, several ms) based on the interrupt request signal from the counter / timer circuit. Each procedure will be described below.

  Step S200: First, the main control CPU 72 saves the values of the registers (accumulator A, flag register F, and general-purpose registers B to L) used during execution of the main loop in the save area of the RAM 76. Another value can be written in the registers (A to L) after the value is saved in the interrupt management process.

  Step S201: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a lottery random number update process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 updates the value of the counter for generating various random numbers for lottery. The value of each counter is incremented in the counter area of the RAM 76 and loops within a specified range. Various random numbers include, for example, jackpot symbol random numbers.

  Step S202: The main control CPU 72 executes the initial value update random number update process also here. The content of the process is the same as described above.

  Step S203: The main control CPU 72 executes input processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 inputs various switch signals from an input / output (I / O) port 79. Specifically, an input state (ON / OFF) of a passage detection signal from the gate switch 78 and a winning detection signal from the left starting winning port switch 80, right starting winning port switch 82, count switch 84, and winning port switch 86. Lead.

  Step S204: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes switch input event processing. In this process, among the switch signals input in the previous input process, the determination of an event occurring during the game is made based on the winning detection signals from the gate switch 78, the left start winning port switch 80, and the right starting winning port switch 82. Depending on the event that occurred, further processing is executed. The specific contents of the switch input event process will be described later with reference to another flowchart.

  In this embodiment, when a winning detection signal (ON) is input from the left start winning port switch 80 or the right starting winning port switch 82, the main control CPU 72 performs internal lottery corresponding to the first special symbol or the second special symbol, respectively. It is determined that an event that triggers the event (lottery opportunity) has occurred. Further, when a passage detection signal (ON) is input from the gate switch 78, the main control CPU 72 determines that an event serving as a lottery trigger corresponding to the normal symbol has occurred. If it is determined that any event has occurred, the main control CPU 72 executes a process corresponding to each event. Note that processing executed when a winning detection signal is input from the left start winning port switch 80 or the right starting winning port switch 82 will be described later with reference to another flowchart.

  Step S205, Step S206: The main control CPU 72 executes a special symbol game process and a normal symbol game process during the interrupt management process. These processes are for specifically proceeding with the game in the pachinko machine 1. Of these, in the special symbol game process (step S205), the main control CPU 72 controls the execution of the internal lottery corresponding to the first special symbol or the second special symbol described above, or the first special symbol display device 34 and the second special symbol display device 34. (2) The variable display and stop display by the special symbol display device 35 are controlled, and the operation of the variable winning device 30 is controlled according to the display result. Details of the special symbol game process will be described later with reference to another flowchart.

  In the normal symbol game process (step S206), the main control CPU 72 controls the variable display and stop display by the normal symbol display device 33 described above, and operates the variable start winning device 28 according to the display result. Or control. For example, the main control CPU 72 stores a random number (ordinary random number per symbol) acquired in response to the passage of the start gate 20 in the previous switch input event processing (step S204). The random number value is read out from the memory, and it is determined whether or not it falls within a predetermined hit range (operation lottery execution means). When the random number value falls within the hit range, the normal symbol display device 33 displays the normal symbol in a variable manner, and after stopping the normal symbol in a predetermined hit state, the main control CPU 72 switches the normal electric accessory solenoid 88 on. Excitingly activates the variable start winning device 28 (movable piece actuating means). On the other hand, if the random number value is out of the hit range, the main control CPU 72 performs a normal symbol stop display in a manner of deviation after the variable display.

  Step S207: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes prize ball payout processing. In this process, based on the winning detection signals input from the various switches 80, 82, 84, 86 in the previous input process (step S203), a prize ball instruction command for instructing the payout control device 92 the number of prize balls is issued. Output.

  Step S208: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes external information processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sends the above-mentioned external information signals (for example, prize ball information, door opening information, symbol determination number information, jackpot information, start port information, etc.) to the hall computer of the game hall through the external terminal board 160. Store in port output request buffer.

  In this embodiment, among the various external information signals, for example, “big hit 1” to “big hit 5” are output to the outside as jackpot information, so that an external electronic device (data display) connected to the pachinko machine 1 is displayed. Various jackpot information can be provided (external information signal output means). In other words, the jackpot information is divided into a plurality of “big hit 1” to “big hit 5” and output, so that the type of jackpot (winning type) from these combinations can be tabulated and managed by a hall computer (not shown) or internal Recognize changes in the probability state (low probability state or high probability state) or shortened state of symbol variation time, or generate a small hit (a hit where the condition device does not work) that is not classified as a “big hit” even if it is not winning Can be aggregated and managed. Based on the jackpot information, for example, a data display device (not shown) counts and displays the number of jackpot occurrences within the past several business days for each pachinko machine 1, and recognizes whether or not each jackpot is currently hit Or can recognize whether or not each symbol is currently in a shortened state of the symbol variation time. In this external information processing, the main control CPU 72 controls each output state (set of ON or OFF) of “big hit 1” to “big hit 5” in detail.

  Step S209: Further, the main control CPU 72 executes test signal processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 generates various test signals representing its internal state (for example, normal symbol game management state, special symbol game management state, jackpot, probability variation function in operation, time reduction function in operation). These are stored in the port output request buffer. With this test signal, for example, the internal state of the main control CPU 72 can be tested outside the main controller 70.

  Step S210: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes display output management processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 performs the normal symbol display device 33, the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a, the first special symbol display device 34, the second special symbol display device 35, the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a, and the second special symbol. The lighting state of the operation memory lamp 35a, the game state display device 38, etc. is controlled. Specifically, the drive signal stored in the port output request buffer is output to the port in the previous special symbol game process (step S205) or the normal symbol game process (step S206). The drive signal is stored in the port output request buffer as byte data to be applied to each LED. As a result, each LED is driven in a predetermined display mode (a mode of performing symbol variation display, stop display, working memory number display, game state display, etc.).

  Step S211: The main control CPU 72 executes output management processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 outputs the external information signal (byte data) stored in the port output request buffer in the previous external information processing (step S208). Further, the main control CPU 72 outputs the drive signals, test signals, and the like of the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 88 and the special prize opening solenoid 90 stored in the port output request buffer to the port.

  Step S212: The main control CPU 72 executes an effect control output process. In this processing, it is confirmed whether or not there is a command (command necessary for presentation control) that the main control CPU 72 should transmit to the presentation control device 124 in the command buffer. Output port.

  Step S213: The main control CPU 72 clears the port output request buffer stored by the current CTC interrupt.

  In the present embodiment, an example is given in which the processing (game control program module) in steps S205 to S212 is executed as a timer interrupt processing. However, these processing are incorporated in the main loop of the CPU and executed. There are also known programming examples.

  Step S214: When the above processing is completed, the main control CPU 72 stores a value (01H) for designating the end of interrupt in the interrupt program counter, and ends the CTC interrupt.

  Step S215, Step S216: Then, the main control CPU 72 restores the saved values of the registers (A to L) and permits the next CTC interrupt. Thereafter, the main control CPU 72 returns to the main loop (program address indicated by the stack pointer).

[Switch input event processing]
FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the switch input event process (step S204 in FIG. 9). Each procedure will be described below.

  Step S10: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not a winning detection signal is input (a lottery opportunity is generated) from the left start winning port switch 80 corresponding to the first special symbol. When the input of the winning detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S12 and executes the first special symbol memory update process. Specific processing contents will be further described later using another flowchart. On the other hand, when no winning detection signal is input (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S14.

  Step S14: Next, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not a winning detection signal is input (a lottery opportunity is generated) from the right start winning port switch 82 corresponding to the second special symbol. When the input of the winning detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S16 and executes the second special symbol memory update process. Here again, the details of the specific processing will be further described later using another flowchart. On the other hand, if there is no input of a winning detection signal (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S18.

  Step S18: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not a winning detection signal is input from the count switch 84 corresponding to the big winning opening. When the input of the winning detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S20 and executes a large winning mouth count process. In the big winning opening counting process, the main control CPU 72 counts the number of winning balls to the variable winning device 30 every round during the big hit game. On the other hand, if no winning detection signal is input (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S22.

  Step S22: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not a passage detection signal is input from the gate switch 78 corresponding to the normal symbol. When the input of the passage detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S24 and executes the normal symbol memory update process. In the normal symbol memory update process, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the current number of normal symbol working memories is less than the upper limit number (for example, 4), and if it does not reach the upper limit number, obtains a random number per normal symbol To do. Further, the main control CPU 72 increments the normal symbol operation memory number by one. Then, the main control CPU 72 stores the acquired random value per normal symbol in the random number storage area of the RAM 76. On the other hand, when no winning detection signal is input (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the interrupt management process (FIG. 9).

[First special symbol memory update process]
FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the first special symbol memory update process (step S12 in FIG. 10). Hereinafter, the procedure of the first special symbol memory update process will be described in order.

  Step S30: First, the main control CPU 72 refers to the value of the first special symbol working memory number counter to check whether or not the working memory number is less than the maximum value (for example, 4). The working memory number counter represents the number (the number of sets) of big hit determination random numbers and big hit symbol random numbers stored in the random number storage area of the RAM 76. That is, the random number storage area of the RAM 76 is divided into four sections (for example, 2 bytes each) for each symbol (first special symbol, second special symbol), and each section contains a big hit decision random number and a big hit symbol random number. Each can be stored as a set. At this time, if the value of the working memory number counter corresponding to the first special symbol has reached the maximum value (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event processing (FIG. 10). On the other hand, if the value of the working memory number counter is less than the maximum value (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S31.

  Step S31: The main control CPU 72 adds one first special symbol working memory number. The first special symbol operation memory number counter is stored, for example, in the operation memory number area of the RAM 76, and the main control CPU 72 increments (+1) the value. Based on the counter value added here, the lighting state of the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a is controlled by the display output management process (step S210 in FIG. 9).

  Step S32: The main control CPU 72 acquires a jackpot determination random number value corresponding to the first special symbol from the random number generator 75 through the sampling circuit 77 (acquisition of first lottery element, lottery element acquisition means). The random value is acquired by specifying the pin address of the random number generator 75. In the case where the main control CPU 72 performs 8-bit processing, the address designation is performed twice for each upper byte and lower byte. When the main control CPU 72 reads the jackpot determination random number value from the designated address, the main control CPU 72 saves it at the transfer destination address as a jackpot determination random number corresponding to the first special symbol.

  Step S33: Next, the main control CPU 72 acquires a jackpot symbol random number value corresponding to the first special symbol from the jackpot symbol random number counter area of the RAM 76. The acquisition of the random number value is also performed by designating the address of the jackpot symbol random number counter area. When the main control CPU 72 reads the jackpot symbol random number value from the designated address, the main control CPU 72 saves it at the transfer destination address as a jackpot symbol random number corresponding to the first special symbol.

  Step S34: Also, the main control CPU 72 sequentially acquires a reach determination random number and a variation pattern determination random number from the variation random number counter area of the RAM 76 as a random value related to the variation condition of the first special symbol (variation pattern determination element acquisition). means). Similarly, these random number values are acquired by designating the address of the random number counter area for variation. Then, when the main control CPU 72 acquires the reach determination random number and the variation pattern determination random number from the designated address, it saves them in the transfer destination address.

  Step S35: The main control CPU 72 transfers the saved jackpot determination random number, jackpot symbol random number, reach determination random number, and variation pattern determination random number to the random number storage area corresponding to the first special symbol, and these random numbers in the empty section in the area Are stored as a set (storage means). The order (for example, first to fourth) is set in the plurality of sections. If all the first to fourth sections are empty at this stage, the random numbers are stored in order from the first section. Alternatively, if the first section is already filled and the other second to fourth sections are empty, the random numbers are stored in order from the second section. Note that the random number storage area is read out in a FIFO (First In First Out) format.

  Step S36: Next, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the current special game management status (game state) is a big hit. If it is not during the big hit (No), the main control CPU 72 executes the following steps S37 and S38. If it is a big hit (Yes), the main control CPU 72 skips steps S37 and S38 and proceeds to step S38a. The reason why this determination is made in the present embodiment is that no pre-reading effect is performed for a winning that occurred during the big hit.

  Step S37: When the jackpot is not a big hit (Step S36: No), the main control CPU 72 executes an effect determination process at the time of acquisition for the first special symbol. This process determines the result of the internal lottery in advance (before the start of fluctuation) based on the jackpot determination random number and the jackpot symbol random number of the first special symbol respectively acquired in the previous steps S32 to S34, and thereby the production contents This is for determination (so-called “look ahead”). The specific processing contents will be described later with reference to another flowchart.

  Step S38: After returning from the at-acquisition effect determination process, the main control CPU 72 next sets the upper bytes (for example, “B8H”) of the special figure destination determination effect command for the first special symbol. This high-order byte data describes that the command type is “for special figure destination determination effect relating to the first special symbol”. Since the lower byte of the special figure destination determination effect command is set in the previous acquisition effect determination process (step S37), the upper byte is combined with the lower byte, for example. Will be generated.

  Step S38a: Next, the main control CPU 72 sets an effect command at the time of increasing the number of working memories regarding the first special symbol. Specifically, for the preceding value (for example, “BBH”) of the upper byte representing the type of command, a 1-word length in which the increased number of working memories (for example, “01H” to “04H”) is added to the lower byte. A production command is generated. At this time, for the lower byte, the second place is set to “0” by default to indicate that the value is “result (change information) due to increase in number of working memories”. That is, if the lower byte is “01H”, it indicates that the current working memory number has become “01H” as a result of increasing by one from the previous working memory number “00H”. Similarly, if the lower byte is “02H” to “04H”, it is increased by one from the previous working memory numbers “01H” to “03H”, so that the current working memory number is “02H” to “02H”. 04H ". The preceding value “BBH” is a value indicating that the current effect command is the working memory number command for the first special symbol.

  Step S39: The main control CPU 72 executes an effect command output setting process for the first special symbol. This process is for transmitting the special figure destination determination effect command generated in the previous step S38, the effect command for increasing the number of working memories generated in step S38a, and the start opening winning tone control command to the effect control device 124. (Memory number notification means).

  When the above procedure is completed or the first special symbol operation memory number has reached 4 (step S30: No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event process (FIG. 10).

[Second special symbol memory update process]
Next, FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the second special symbol memory update process (step S16 in FIG. 10). Hereinafter, the procedure of the second special symbol memory update process will be described in order.

  Step S40: The main control CPU 72 refers to the value of the second special symbol working memory number counter to check whether or not the working memory number is less than the maximum value. Similarly to the above, the second special symbol actuated memory number counter represents the number (number of sets) of jackpot determination random numbers and jackpot symbol random numbers stored in the random number storage area of the RAM 76. At this time, if the value of the second special symbol operation memory number counter reaches the maximum value (for example, 4) (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event process (FIG. 10). On the other hand, if the value of the second special symbol operation memory number counter is still less than the maximum value (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S41 and thereafter.

  Step S41: The main control CPU 72 increments the second special symbol working memory number by one (increments the value of the second special symbol working memory number counter). Similarly to the previous step S31 (FIG. 11), the lighting state of the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a is controlled by the display output management process (step S210 in FIG. 9) based on the counter value added here. Will be.

  Step S42: The main control CPU 72 acquires a jackpot determination random number value corresponding to the second special symbol from the random number generator 75 through the sampling circuit 77 (acquisition of second lottery element, lottery element acquisition means). The method for acquiring the random value is the same as that in step S32 (FIG. 11) described above.

  Step S43: Next, the main control CPU 72 acquires a jackpot symbol random number value corresponding to the second special symbol from the jackpot symbol random number counter area of the RAM 76. The method for acquiring the random value is the same as that in step S33 (FIG. 11) described above.

  Step S44: Also, the main control CPU 72 sequentially acquires a reach determination random number and a variation pattern determination random number regarding the variation condition of the second special symbol from the variation random number counter area of the RAM 76 (variation pattern determination element acquisition means). Acquisition of these random values is also performed in the same manner as step S34 (FIG. 11) described above.

  Step S45: The main control CPU 72 transfers the saved jackpot determination random number, jackpot symbol random number, reach determination random number, and variation pattern determination random number to the random number storage area corresponding to the second special symbol, and these random numbers in the empty section in the area Are stored as a set (storage means). The storage method is the same as step S35 (FIG. 11) described above.

  Step S45a: Next, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the current game management status (game state) is a big hit. If it is not a big hit (No), the main control CPU 72 executes the following steps S46 and S47. Conversely, if it is a big hit (Yes), the main control CPU 72 skips steps S46 and S47 and proceeds to step S48. The reason why this determination is made in the present embodiment is that a pre-reading effect is not performed for a winning that occurred during the big hit.

  Step S46: When it is other than big hit (step S45a: No), next, the main control CPU 72 executes an effect determination process at the time of acquisition for the second special symbol. This process determines the result of the internal lottery in advance (before the start of the change) based on the big hit determination random number and the big hit symbol random number of the second special symbol obtained in the previous steps S42 to S44, respectively, It is for judging. The specific processing contents will be described later.

  Step S47: After returning from the effect determination process at the time of acquisition, the main control CPU 72 sets the upper byte (for example, “B9H”) of the special figure destination determination effect command. This high-order byte data describes that the command type is “for special figure destination determination effect relating to the second special symbol”. Similarly, since the lower byte of the special figure destination determination effect command is set in the previous effect determination processing at the time of acquisition (step S46), for example, one word is synthesized by combining the upper byte with the lower byte. A long command will be generated.

  Step S48: Next, the main control CPU 72 sets an effect command for increasing the number of working memories with respect to the second special symbol. Here, a one-word-length production command in which the increased number of working memories (for example, “01H” to “04H”) is added to the lower byte with respect to the preceding value (for example, “BCH”) representing the command type. Is generated. Similarly, for the second special symbol, the second place of the lower byte is set to “0” by default to indicate that the value is “a result of an increase in the number of working memories (change information)”. it can. The preceding value “BCH” is a value indicating that the current effect command is a working memory number command for the second special symbol.

  Step S49: The main control CPU 72 executes an effect command output setting process for the second special symbol. As a result, preparation for transmitting a special figure destination determination effect command, an effect command when increasing the number of operating memories, a start opening winning sound control command, and the like regarding the second special symbol to the effect control device 124 is performed (memory number notifying means). . When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event process (FIG. 10).

[Acquisition process during acquisition]
FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure of the effect determination process at the time of acquisition. The main control CPU 72 executes this acquisition effect determination process in the first special symbol memory update process and the second special symbol memory update process (step S37 in FIG. 11 and step S46 in FIG. 12) (predetermined determination). Execution means). As described above, this processing is executed for each of the first special symbol (when winning a left start winning opening (not shown)) and the second special symbol (when winning a variable start winning device 28). Therefore, the following description may correspond to a process related to the first special symbol and a process related to the second special symbol. Hereinafter, the contents of the processing will be described along each procedure.

  Step S50: The main control CPU 72 sets the lower byte (for example, “00H”) of the special figure destination determination effect command (point determination information). The byte data set here represents the standard value of the command (at the time of loss).

  Step S52: Next, the main control CPU 72 loads the jackpot determination random number as the first determination random value. The random numbers to be loaded here are those stored in the RAM 76 in the first special symbol memory update process (step S35 in FIG. 11) or the second special symbol memory update process (step S45 in FIG. 12). .

  Step S54: Then, the main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the loaded random number is outside the range of the winning value (here, the lower limit value or less) (lottery result destination determining means). Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sets a comparison value (lower limit value) in the A register, and subtracts the loaded random number value from this comparison value. The comparison value (lower limit value) is defined in advance according to the winning probability of the internal lottery in the pachinko machine 1. Next, the main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the calculation result is 0 or a positive value from the value of the flag register, for example. As a result, if the loaded random number is outside the range of the winning value (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S80.

  Step S80: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a variation pattern information preliminary determination process at the time of deviation (variation pattern destination determination means). In this process, the main control CPU 72 generates the variation pattern destination determination command described above for the variation time at the time of disconnection. In the variation pattern destination determination command generated here, prior determination information regarding the variation time (or variation pattern number) particularly when the “time reduction function” is activated is reflected. For example, if the current state is when the “time reduction function” is activated, the main control CPU 72 corresponds to the “out-of-reach fluctuation fluctuation (non-shortening fluctuation time)” based on the loaded reach determination random number. Judge whether there is. As a result, when the fluctuation time corresponds to “outlier reach fluctuation (non-shortening fluctuation time)”, the main control CPU 72 generates a fluctuation pattern destination determination command corresponding to “short-time / non-shortening fluctuation time”. In the case of reach variation, it is also possible to determine a “reach group (type of reach)” from the reach mode random number and generate a variation pattern destination determination command from the result. On the other hand, when the fluctuation time does not correspond to the “outlier reach fluctuation (non-shortening fluctuation time)”, the main control CPU 72 generates a fluctuation pattern destination determination command corresponding to the “short / mid-shortening fluctuation time”. Alternatively, if the current state is when the “time reduction function” is inactive (low probability state), the main control CPU 72 corresponds to the “normally out of reach reach fluctuation” based on the loaded reach determination random number. It is determined whether or not. As a result, when the fluctuation time corresponds to “normally deviation reach fluctuation”, the main control CPU 72 generates a fluctuation pattern destination determination command corresponding to “normally deviation reach fluctuation time”. On the other hand, when the fluctuation time does not correspond to “normally deviation reach fluctuation”, the main control CPU 72 generates a fluctuation pattern destination determination command corresponding to “normal deviation fluctuation time”. Further, the variation pattern destination determination command generated here is set in the transmission buffer in the effect command output setting process (steps S39 and S49) as described above. In this process, the main control CPU 72 may generate a change pattern destination determination command for the change pattern at the time of small hit, similarly to the above-described process at the time of loss.

  When the above procedure is executed, the main control CPU 72 ends the acquisition-time effect determination process, and returns to the caller's first special symbol memory update process (FIG. 11) or the second special symbol memory update process (FIG. 12). On the other hand, if it is determined in the previous step S54 that the loaded random number is not outside the range of the winning value but within the range (step S54: No), the main control CPU 72 then proceeds to step S56.

  Step S56: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the probability state schedule flag based on the previous determination result is set. The probability state schedule flag based on the previous determination result is set when there is a winning value among the jackpot determination random numbers stored so far, although the fluctuation has not yet started. Specifically, if there is a winning value in the jackpot decision random number stored so far, if the jackpot symbol random number paired with this corresponds to “probability variation”, for example, the probability state schedule flag “A0H” is set. This value represents a flag value for setting as a schedule that a high probability state is to be set in advance determination (prefetching determination) of the jackpot determined random number acquired after the jackpot determined random number. On the other hand, if there is a winning value in the jackpot decision random number stored so far, and the jackpot symbol random number paired with this corresponds to "non-probable (normal) symbol", the probability state For example, “01H” is set in the schedule flag. This value represents a flag value for setting as a schedule that a normal (low) probability state is set in advance determination (prefetching determination) of the big hit determination random number acquired after this big hit determination random number. If the winning value does not exist in the big hit determination random numbers stored so far, the flag value is reset (00H). Further, the value of the probability state schedule flag is stored in the flag area of the RAM 76, for example. Here, an example is given in which the advance hit determination is strictly performed using the “probability state schedule flag”. However, when the advance hit determination is simply performed based on the current probability state, step S56 and the subsequent steps are performed. Step S58, step S60, step S62, step S76, etc. may be omitted.

  If the probability state schedule flag has not yet been set (step S56: No), the main control CPU 72 executes step S66.

  Step S66: In this case, the main control CPU 72 sets the comparison value for the next low probability (normal time) in the A register. The low probability comparison value is also defined in advance according to the winning probability at the low probability in the pachinko machine 1.

  Step S68: Next, the main control CPU 72 loads the “current probability state flag”. This probability state flag indicates whether or not the current internal state has a high probability (probably changing), and is stored in the flag area of the RAM 76. If the current probability state is a high probability (probably changing), the value “01H” is set as the state flag, and if the current probability state is low (normally), the value of the state flag is reset (“00H”). ").

  Step S70: Then, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the loaded current special symbol probability state flag does not represent a high probability (≠ 01H), and if the result indicates a high probability (No Then, step S64 is executed.

  Step S64: The main control CPU 72 sets a comparative value for high probability. As a result, the low-probability comparison value set in the previous step S66 is rewritten. The high probability comparison value is defined in advance according to the winning probability at the high probability in the pachinko machine 1.

  As described above, when the probability state schedule flag based on the previous determination result is not yet set and the current internal state is high probability, the comparison value is rewritten for high probability and the next step S72 is performed. Will be executed. On the other hand, when it is confirmed in the previous step S70 that the current probability state flag does not represent a high probability (Yes), the main control CPU 72 skips step S64 and executes the next step S72.

  Step S72: The main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the random number loaded in the previous step S52 is out of the winning value range (lottery result destination determination means). That is, the main control CPU 72 subtracts the jackpot determination random number value from the comparison value set for each state. Similarly, the main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the calculation result is a negative value (<0) from the value of the flag register, and if the result is that the loaded random number is outside the range of the winning value (Yes) ), The main control CPU 72 executes the above-described variation pattern information preliminary determination process (step S80). On the other hand, if the loaded random number is not outside the range of the winning value but is within the range (No), the main control CPU 72 then proceeds to step S74.

  Step S74: The main control CPU 72 executes a jackpot symbol type determination process. This process is for determining the big hit type (winning type) at that time based on the big hit symbol random number paired with the big hit decision random number. For example, the main control CPU 72 loads the jackpot symbol random number for each symbol stored in the first special symbol memory update process (step S35 in FIG. 11) or the second special symbol memory update process (step S45 in FIG. 12). Then, the calculation using the comparison value is executed in the same manner as in step S54 described above, and it is determined from the result whether the jackpot type corresponds to “non-probable variation (normal) symbol” or “probability variation symbol”. The main control CPU 72 stores the determination result at this time as a special symbol destination determination value, and proceeds to the next step S76.

  Step S76: Then, the main control CPU 72 sets the value of the probability state schedule flag based on the previous determination result. Specifically, when the special symbol destination determination value stored in the previous step S74 represents “non-probable change (normal) symbol”, the main control CPU 72 sets the value “01H” in the probability state schedule flag. On the other hand, when the special symbol destination determination value represents “probability variation symbol”, the main control CPU 72 sets the value “A0H” in the probability state schedule flag. As a result, in the subsequent processing, it is determined that “flag set has been completed” in step S56.

  Step S78: The main control CPU 72 sets the special symbol destination determination value stored in the previous step S74 as the lower byte of the special symbol destination determination effect command. As the special symbol destination determination value, for example, “01H” is set when it corresponds to “non-probable (normal) symbol”, and “A0H” is set when it corresponds to “probable variation”. In any case, by setting the lower byte data here, the standard lower byte data “00H” set in the previous step S50 is rewritten.

  Step S79: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a big hit hour variation pattern information prior determination process (variation pattern destination determination means). In this process, the main control CPU 72 generates the above-described variation pattern destination determination command for the variation time at the big hit. In the variation pattern destination determination command generated here, for example, prior determination information related to the reach variation time (or variation pattern number) at the time of big hit is reflected. Further, the variation pattern destination determination command generated here is set in the transmission buffer in the effect command output setting process (steps S39 and S49) as described above.

  The above is the procedure before the probability state schedule flag based on the previous determination result is set (before the internal first hit). On the other hand, when the probability state schedule flag is set through the previous step S76, the following procedure is executed. However, when the previous hit determination is performed only with the current probability state as described above, it is not necessary to execute the following step S56, step S58, step S60, step S62, and step S76.

  Step S56: When the main control CPU 72 confirms that a value has already been set in the probability state schedule flag (Yes), it next executes step S58.

  Step S58: The main control CPU 72 first sets a low probability (normal time) comparison value in the A register.

  Step S60: Next, the main control CPU 72 loads a “probability state schedule flag”. The probability state schedule flag is for setting a probability state in a subsequent determination based on the immediately preceding determination result as described above, and is stored in the flag area of the RAM 76. . If the probability state based on the immediately preceding destination determination result is scheduled to shift to a high probability (probability change), “A0H” is set as the value of the probability state schedule flag as described above. If the probability state based on is scheduled to return to a low probability (normal), “01H” is set as the value of the probability state schedule flag.

  Step S62: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the loaded probability state schedule flag does not represent a high-probability schedule (≠ 01H), and if the result indicates a high-probability schedule ( No) Next, step S64 is executed, and a comparative value for high probability is set.

  As described above, when the probability state schedule flag based on the previous determination result is already set and the value is a high probability, the next step S72 and subsequent steps after rewriting the comparison value for the high probability. Will be executed. On the other hand, when it is confirmed in the previous step S62 that the probability state schedule flag does not represent a schedule with a high probability but a schedule with a normal (low) probability (Yes), the main control CPU 72 performs a step. S64 is skipped and the subsequent step S72 and subsequent steps are executed. Thus, in the present embodiment, it is possible to make a prior jackpot determination in consideration of subsequent changes in internal state (normal probability state → high probability state, high probability state → normal probability state) based on the previous determination result. .

  When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the first special symbol memory update process (FIG. 11) or the second special symbol memory update process (FIG. 12).

[Special design game processing]
Next, the details of the special symbol game process executed in the interrupt management process (FIG. 9) will be described. FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a configuration example of the special symbol game process. The special symbol game process includes an execution selection process (step S1000), a special symbol change pre-process (step S2000), a special symbol change process (step S3000), a special symbol stop display process (step S4000), and a variable winning device management process. This is a configuration including a subroutine (program module) group of (Step S5000). First, the basic flow of the special symbol game process will be described along each process.

  Step S1000: In the execution selection process, the main control CPU 72 selects the jump destination of the process to be executed next (any one of steps S2000 to S5000) from the “jump table”. For example, the main control CPU 72 sets the program address of the process to be executed next as the jump destination address, and sets the end of the special symbol game process as the return address in the stack pointer.

  Which process is selected as the next jump destination differs depending on the progress of the process performed so far (special symbol game management status). For example, if the special symbol has not yet started changing display (special symbol game management status: 00H), the main control CPU 72 selects the special symbol variation pre-processing (step S2000) as the next jump destination. On the other hand, if the special symbol variation pre-processing has already been completed (special symbol game management status: 01H), the main control CPU 72 selects the special symbol variation processing (step S3000) as the next jump destination, and the special symbol variation is in progress. If the process has been completed (special symbol game management status: 02H), the special symbol stop displaying process (step S4000) is selected as the next jump destination. In this embodiment, the jump destination address is specified by the “jump table” and the process is selected. However, apart from such a selection method, a “process flag”, a “process selection flag”, or the like is used. There is also a known programming example in which the CPU selects a process to be executed next. In such a programming example, the CPU CALLs each process in a single way, and at the top step, the conditional branch (continuation / return) is performed by referring to the flag one by one. However, in the selection method of this embodiment, the main control is performed. There is no need for the CPU 72 to call each process one by one.

  Step S2000: In the special symbol variation pre-processing, the main control CPU 72 performs an operation to prepare conditions for starting the variation display of the special symbol. The specific processing content will be described later using another flowchart.

  Step S3000: In the special symbol variation processing, the main control CPU 72 performs drive control of the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35 while counting the variation timer. Specifically, an ON or OFF drive signal (1 byte data) is output for each segment and dot (0th to 7th) of the 7-segment LED. The pattern of the drive signal changes with the passage of time, whereby a special symbol is displayed in a variable manner.

  Step S4000: In the special symbol stop display process, the main control CPU 72 controls the drive of the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35. Similarly, an ON or OFF drive signal is output for each segment and dot of the 7-segment LED. However, the pattern of the drive signal is constant, whereby a special symbol is stopped and displayed.

  Step S5000: The variable winning device management process is selected when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the winning mode (a mode other than non-winning) in the previous special symbol stop display process. For example, when a special symbol is stopped and displayed in a 16-round big hit mode, an opportunity to shift from a normal state until then to a big hit gaming state (a special gaming state advantageous to the player) occurs. During the big hit game, the jump destination is set in the variable winning device management process in the previous execution selection process (step S1000), and the special symbol variation display is not performed. In the variable winning device management process, the large winning opening solenoid 90 is set for a predetermined time (for example, 29 seconds or until nine winnings are counted) for a preset number of continuous operations (for example, 2, 4, and 16 times). As a result, the variable winning device 30 is opened and closed in a predetermined pattern (continuous operation of the special electric accessory). In the meantime, by allowing the variable winning device 30 to win the game balls intensively, the player is given an opportunity to collect a lot of prize balls (special game execution means). Note that the opening / closing operation of the variable winning device 30 at the time of the big win is referred to as “round”, and if the total number of continuous operations is 16 times, these may be collectively referred to as “16 rounds”. In this embodiment, not only 16 round big hits but also other types of 4 round big hits and 2 round big hits are provided as the types of big hits. In addition, for 16 round big hits, 4 round big hits, and 2 round big hits, a plurality of winning types (winning symbols) may be provided therein.

  Further, when the main control CPU 72 sets the large winning opening opening pattern (number of rounds, number of opening / closing operations per round, opening time, etc.) in the variable winning device management process, the main control CPU 72 performs the opening / closing operation of the variable winning device 30 for one round. Each time it is finished, the value of the round number counter is incremented by one. The value of the round number counter is stored in the count area of the RAM 76 with an initial value of 0, for example. Further, the main control CPU 72 generates a round number command representing the value of the round number counter. The round number command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process (step S212 in FIG. 9). When the value of the round number counter reaches the set number of continuous operations, the main control CPU 72 ends the big hit game (big player) only for that round.

  When the big hit game ends, the main control CPU 72 changes the state after the big hit game (high probability state, time reduction state) based on the game state flag (probability variation function operation flag, time reduction function operation flag) ( High probability time shortening state transition means). In the “high probability state”, the probability variation function is activated, and the winning probability in the internal lottery becomes, for example, about ten times higher than usual (specific game state transition means, high probability state transition means, high probability state setting means). Further, in the “time reduction state”, the time reduction function is activated, and the normal symbol operation lottery has a high probability as described above, and the variation time of the normal symbol is shortened and the opening time of the variable start winning device 28 is reduced. Is extended and the number of times of opening increases (so-called electric Chu support is performed). Note that the “high probability state” and the “time reduction state” may be transferred to only one of them in terms of control, or may be transferred in accordance with both of them.

[Multiple winning types]
In the present embodiment, for the “16 round jackpot”, for example, (1) “16 round probability variable jackpot” is provided as a plurality of winning types, and “16 round non-probable jackpot” is not provided. In addition to “16 rounds probable big hits”, there are several winning types: (2) “4 rounds probable big hits” and (3) “2 rounds probable big hits”. ”And“ 2 rounds of non-probable big hits ”are not provided. However, in this embodiment, big hits other than 16 rounds, 4 rounds, and 2 rounds may be provided, or “non-probable big hits” may be provided.

  The winning type corresponds to the type of the first special symbol or the second special symbol that is stopped and displayed at the time of winning. For example, “16 round probability variation big hit” corresponds to the big hit of “16 round probability variation symbol”, “4 round probability variation big hit” corresponds to the big hit of “4 round probability variation big symbol”, and “2 round probability variation big hit” is “2 rounds” Corresponds to the jackpot of "probable variation". Therefore, hereinafter, the “winning type” will be appropriately referred to as “winning symbol”.

[16 rounds probable design]
When the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the form of “16 round probability variation symbol” in the previous special symbol stop display processing, an opportunity to shift from the normal state to the big hit gaming state occurs (special game executing means). . In this case, the special winning opening is opened once each over a sufficiently long time (for example, a maximum opening time of 29.0 seconds) from the first round, and this continues until the 16th round. This “16-round probable variation” jackpot game can give 16 rounds (prize balls) to the player (special value special game). Further, when a predetermined number of times (for example, 9 times = 9 game balls) is generated within one round, the special winning opening is closed without waiting for the longest opening time to elapse. Then, for example, by operating the “probability changing function” after the big hit game is finished, a privilege to shift to the “high probability state” is given to the player as a result. In this case, even if the “time reduction function” is inactive in the game up to that point, the “time reduction function” is activated after the big hit game is finished, so that the “time reduction state” is transferred. A privilege is given to the player.

[4 rounds probable variation]
In addition, if the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the form of “4-round probability variation symbol” in the previous special symbol stop display process, an opportunity to shift from the normal state until then to the big hit gaming state occurs (special game execution) means). In this case, the grand prize opening is opened once each over a sufficiently long time from the first round (for example, 29.0 seconds at the longest), and this continues until the fourth round (non-specific value special Game). The big hit game of the “4-round probability variation pattern” can give 4 rounds of winning balls (prize balls) to the player. Further, when a predetermined number of times (for example, 9 times = 9 game balls) is generated within one round, the special winning opening is closed without waiting for the longest opening time to elapse. Then, for example, by operating the “probability changing function” after the big hit game is finished, a privilege to shift to the “high probability state” is given to the player as a result. In this case, even if the “time reduction function” is inactive in the game up to that point, the “time reduction function” is activated after the big hit game is finished, so that the “time reduction state” is transferred. A privilege is given to the player.

[2-round probability variable design]
Furthermore, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the “2 round probability variation symbol” mode in the previous special symbol stop display processing, an opportunity to shift from the normal state until then to the short-term big hit gaming state occurs. However, since the two-round jackpot game ends in an extremely short time compared to the 16-round jackpot game and the four-round jackpot game, there is hardly any winning in the big winning opening. Therefore, the big hit game of “2 round probability variation design” is completed within a short period of time without giving a substantial play (prize ball) to the player. Instead, if the winning type corresponds to “2 round probability variation symbol”, for example, the “probability variation function” is activated after the jackpot game is ended, and as a result, the privilege of shifting to the “high probability state” Granted to a person. Such a “two-round probability variation pattern” gives the player the impression that a “high probability state” suddenly occurs without going through a clear big hit game. Here, an example is given in which the opening time is set to an extremely short time, but even in a 2-round big hit game, for example, multiple (for example, about 9) game balls are won in one round. It is good also as setting sufficient open time which becomes possible. In this case, the player can enjoy the privilege of shifting to the “high probability state” after giving a privilege of paying out a certain amount of prize balls. Further, in this embodiment, when the “non-time shortened state” corresponds to the “two-round probability variation symbol”, the transition to the “time shortened state” is not performed. When it corresponds to “design”, it is decided to shift to “time reduction state”.

  In any case, if the winning symbol is one of the above “16-round probability variation symbol”, “4-round probability variation symbol” or “2-round probability variation symbol”, the internal state will be changed to “high probability state” after the big hit game ends. A privilege to be transferred is given to the player. In addition, if the internal lottery is won in the “high probability state” and the winning symbol at that time corresponds to any of the “16 round probability variation symbol”, “4 round probability variation symbol”, or “2 round probability variation symbol”, the jackpot game The “high probability state” continues (restarts) even after the end.

[Small hits]
Further, in the present embodiment, small wins are provided as winning types other than non-winning. When winning a small winning game, a small winning game is performed separately from the big winning game, and the variable winning device 30 is opened and closed (special game executing means). That is, when the first special symbol is stopped and displayed in the small hit state in the special symbol stop display process, the small hit game (the variable winning device 30 is activated in the normal probability state or the high probability state). (Game) is executed (in this embodiment, no small hit is set for the second special symbol). In such a small win game, the variable winning device 30 opens and closes a predetermined number of times (for example, twice), but hardly wins a big winning opening. In addition, even if the small hit game ends, the “probability variation function” does not operate and the “time reduction function” does not operate, so “high probability state” and “time reduction state” The privilege to transfer to is not granted (it is not a prerequisite for that). Also, even if you win a small hit in the “high probability state”, the “high probability state” will not end after the game of that small hit, and even if you win a small hit in the “time reduction state” The “time reduction state” does not end after the end of the small hit game (except when the upper limit is reached). In the present embodiment, the game specification for setting a small hit is used, but it may be a game specification for not setting a small hit. If a small hit is not set, the “2-round probability variation symbol” and “small hit” will not be discriminated, and if a short-term big hit game is executed, the player can rest assured that You can aim for big hits in the probability state.

[Special symbol change pre-treatment]
FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the special symbol variation pre-processing. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along each procedure.

  Step S2100: First, the main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the first special symbol working memory number or the second special symbol working memory number remains (greater than 0). This confirmation can be made with reference to the value of the working memory number counter stored in the RAM 76. When the number of working memories of both the first special symbol and the second special symbol is 0 (No), the main control CPU 72 executes a demonstration setting process in step S2500.

  Step S2500: In this process, the main control CPU 72 generates a demonstration effect command. The demonstration effect command is output to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process (step S212 in FIG. 9). When the demo setting process is executed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game process. At the time of return, it returns to the end address as described above (and so on).

  On the other hand, if the value of the working memory number counter of either the first special symbol or the second special symbol is greater than 0 (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S2200.

  Step S2200: The main control CPU 72 executes a special symbol storage area shift process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 preferentially reads out the lottery random numbers (big hit determination random number, big hit symbol random number) stored in the random number storage area of the RAM 76, which corresponds to the second special symbol. At this time, if random numbers are stored in two or more sections, the main control CPU 72 reads and erases (consumes) the random numbers in order from the first section, and then moves (shifts) the remaining random numbers one by one to the previous section. ) The read random number is stored, for example, in another temporary storage area. When the random number corresponding to the second special symbol is not stored, the main control CPU 72 reads the random number corresponding to the first special symbol and stores it in the temporary storage area. Each random number stored in the temporary storage area is used for internal lottery in the next jackpot determination process. As a result, in the present embodiment, the variable display of the second special symbol is preferentially performed over the first special symbol. In addition, the program which reads a random number in the order memorize | stored simply may be sufficient, without providing the priority order according to such special symbols. Further, in this processing, the main control CPU 72 subtracts one value from the working memory number counter (the one of the first special symbol or the second special symbol, which has been subjected to the random number shift) stored in the RAM 76, and subtracts it. The later value is set to “Number of working memories at start of change”. Thereby, the display mode of the number stored by the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a or the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a changes (decreases by 1) in the display output management process (step S210 in FIG. 9). . When the procedure so far is finished, the main control CPU 72 then executes step S2300.

  Step S2300: The main control CPU 72 executes a big hit determination process (internal lottery). In this process, the main control CPU 72 first sets a range of the big hit value and determines whether or not the read random number value is included in this range (internal lottery execution means). The range of the jackpot value set at this time is different between the normal probability state and the high probability state (when the probability variation function is activated). In the high probability state, the range of the jackpot value is expanded to about 10 times that of the normal probability state. The If the random value read at this time is included in the range of the big hit value, the main control CPU 72 sets the big hit flag (01H), and then proceeds to step S2400.

  When the above big hit flag is not set, the main control CPU 72 sets the range of the small hit value next in the same big hit determination process, and determines whether or not the read random number value is included in this range (lottery execution). means). The “small hit” here is other than non-winning (out of), but is different from “big hit”. That is, “big hit” generates an opportunity (game milestone) to shift to the above “high probability state” or “time reduction state”, but “small hit” does not generate such an opportunity. However, “small hit” is positioned as satisfying the condition for operating the variable winning device 30 as in the case of “big hit”. The range of the small hit value set at this time may be different between the normal probability state and the high probability state (when the probability variation function is activated), or may be the same. In any case, if the read random number value is included in the range of the small hit value, the main control CPU 72 sets the small hit flag, and then proceeds to step S2400. As described above, in the present embodiment, as the hit range corresponding to other than the non-winning, the range of the big hit value and the small hit value is defined in advance in the program. Each of them may be written in the ROM 74, read out, and the big hit determination may be performed while comparing with the random value.

  Step S2400: The main control CPU 72 determines whether or not a value (01H) is set for the big hit flag in the previous big hit determination process. If the value (01H) is not set in the jackpot flag (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S2402.

  Step S2402: The main control CPU 72 determines whether or not a value (01H) is set in the small hit flag in the previous big hit determination process. If the value (01H) is not set in the small hit flag (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S2404. The main control CPU 72 may determine the big hit (for example, 01H is set) or the small hit (for example, 0AH is set) according to the value of the common hit flag without separately preparing the big hit flag and the small hit flag.

  Step S2404: The main control CPU 72 executes an off-time stop symbol determination process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sets stop symbol number data at the time of disconnection by the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35. Further, the main control CPU 72 generates a stop symbol command and a lottery result command (at the time of losing) to be transmitted to the effect control device 124. These commands are transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process (step S212 in FIG. 9).

  In this embodiment, since the 7-segment LED is used for the first special symbol display device 34 and the second special symbol display device 35, for example, the display mode of the stop symbol at the time of disconnection is always set to one segment (the center It is possible to fix the stop symbol number data to one value (for example, 64H) by keeping only the lighting display of the bar "-"). In this case, the storage capacity used in the program can be reduced, the processing load on the main control CPU 72 can be reduced, and the processing speed can be improved.

  Step S2405: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a deviation variation pattern determination process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the fluctuation pattern number at the time of deviation for the special symbol (fluctuation pattern selection means). The variation pattern number is used to distinguish the variation display type (pattern) of the special symbol or to correspond to the variation time required for the variation display. Since the fluctuation time at the time of loss differs depending on whether or not it is the above “time reduction state”, in this process, the main control CPU 72 loads the gaming state flag and the current state is “time reduction state”. Check if it exists. In the “time reduction state”, except for the case where reach fluctuation is basically performed, the fluctuation time at the time of disconnection is set to a shortened time (for example, about 2.0 seconds) (shortening fluctuation time determination means) ). In addition, even if not in the “time shortening state”, the fluctuation time at the time of losing is based on, for example, “the number of operating memories at the start of fluctuation display (0 to 3)” set in step S2200, except when the reach fluctuation is performed. (For example, the number of working memories at the start of variable display 0 to about 12.5 seconds, the number of operating memories at the start of variable display 1 to about 8 seconds, the number of operating memories at the start of variable display 2 to 5 → About 3 seconds, the number of working memories at the start of variable display is 3 → 2.5 seconds). Note that the symbol stop display time at the time of disconnection is constant (for example, about 0.5 seconds) regardless of the variation pattern. The main control CPU 72 sets the value of the determined fluctuation time (at the time of disconnection) in the fluctuation timer, and sets the value of the stop display time at the time of disconnection in the stop symbol display timer.

  In the present embodiment, when the result of the internal lottery is a non-winning result, for example, a “reach effect” is generated and the control is performed so that the “reach effect” is not generated. It is said. The “variation pattern selection table at the time of loss” preliminarily defines variation patterns corresponding to a plurality of types of effects such as “non-reach effect” and “reach effect”. One of the fluctuation patterns is selected from the inside. The reach production includes various reach production such as normal reach production, long reach production, super reach production, and the like.

[Example of variation pattern selection table for loss]
FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating an example of the variation pattern selection table at the time of loss (low probability or high probability non-time shortened state).
This selection table is a table that is used at the time of losing in a low probability or high probability non-time shortened state (when it corresponds to non-winning) (fluctuation pattern defining means). In addition, this selection table has a structure in which, for example, “comparison value” and “variation pattern number” are stored as a set of 1 byte each in order from the head address. The “comparison value” includes, for example, eight different values “101”, “201”, “211”, “221”, “231”, “241”, “251”, “255 (FFH)”. “1” to “8” of “variation pattern number” are assigned to each “comparison value”.

  Variation pattern numbers “1” to “3” correspond to variation patterns that are out of reach without performing a reach effect, and variation pattern numbers “4” to “8” are variation patterns that are out of reach after reach. It corresponds. Here, the fluctuation pattern numbers “5” to “8” correspond to specific fluctuation patterns that are lost after the special reach. The fluctuation time of the fluctuation pattern number “5” can be a fluctuation time of 17 seconds, and the fluctuation time of the fluctuation pattern number “6” can be a fluctuation time of 27 seconds. The variation time of the variation pattern number “7” can be a variation time of 37 seconds, and the variation time of the variation pattern number “8” can be a variation time of 47 seconds. The variation pattern selection table may have different table contents depending on the number of operation memories at the start of variation (the same applies hereinafter). However, the above-mentioned specific variation pattern is a variation pattern in which the variation time is fixed, and the variation time is not shortened depending on the number of memories.

  Here, the length of the set fluctuation time is greatly different between the non-reach fluctuation pattern and the reach fluctuation pattern. That is, the “non-reach variation pattern” basically corresponds to a short variation time (for example, about 3.0 seconds to 12.0 seconds depending on the number of working memories), whereas the “reach variation pattern” This corresponds to a longer variation time (for example, 17 seconds or more).

  Then, the main control CPU 72 sequentially compares the obtained variation pattern determination random value with the “comparison value” in the variation pattern selection table, and if the random value is equal to or less than the comparison value, The corresponding variation pattern number is selected (variation pattern determining means). For example, if the variation pattern determination random value at that time is “190”, the main control CPU 72 determines that the random value exceeds the comparison value when compared with the first comparison value “101”. 201 "is compared with the random value. In this case, since the random value is equal to or smaller than the comparison value, the main control CPU 72 selects “2” as the corresponding variation pattern number.

FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating an example of the variation pattern selection table at the time of loss (high probability time reduction state).
This selection table is a table that is used at the time of losing in the high probability time shortened state (when it corresponds to non-winning) (variation pattern defining means). In addition, this selection table has a structure in which, for example, “comparison value” and “variation pattern number” are stored as a set of 1 byte each in order from the head address. The “comparison value” includes, for example, eight different values “101”, “201”, “211”, “221”, “231”, “241”, “251”, “255 (FFH)”. “21” to “28” of “variation pattern number” are assigned to each “comparison value”.

  All of the variation pattern numbers “21” to “28” correspond to variation patterns that are out of reach without a reach effect. However, since the variation pattern numbers “21” to “28” are non-reach variations due to time shortening variations, a shortened variation time (for example, about 2.0 seconds) is set as the variation time in the normal state. . It should be noted that, at the time of detachment in the high probability time shortened state, not all of the non-reach variation pattern may be set, but a detachment variation pattern may be set after reaching.

  The main control CPU 72 sequentially compares the obtained variation pattern determination random value with the “comparison value” in the variation pattern selection table, and if the random value is equal to or less than the comparison value, the main control CPU 72 corresponds to the comparison value. A variation pattern number is selected (variation pattern determination means). For example, if the variation pattern determination random value at that time is “190”, the main control CPU 72 determines that the random value exceeds the comparison value when compared with the first comparison value “101”. 201 "is compared with the random value. In this case, since the random value is equal to or smaller than the comparison value, the main control CPU 72 selects “22” as the corresponding variation pattern number.

[See Figure 15: Special symbol change pre-processing]
The above steps S2404 and S2405 are control procedures when the big hit determination result is out of place (in the case other than non-winning), but the determination result is a big hit (step S2400: Yes) or a small hit (step S2402: Yes). The main control CPU 72 executes the following procedure. First, the case of jackpot will be described.

  Step S2410: The main control CPU 72 executes a big hit stop symbol determination process (winning type determination means). In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the type of the winning symbol (stop symbol number at the time of jackpot) for each special symbol (first special symbol or second special symbol) based on the jackpot symbol random number. The relationship between the jackpot symbol random number value and the type of winning symbol is defined in advance in the special symbol determination data table (winning type defining means). For this reason, the main control CPU 72 can determine the type of winning symbol based on the big hit symbol random number from the stored contents by referring to the big hit symbol stop selection table in the big hit symbol stop determination process.

[Winning pattern at the time of big hit]
In the present embodiment, there are roughly three types of winning symbols that are selectively determined at the time of a big hit. The three types of breakdown are “2-round probability variation”, “4-round probability variation”, and “16 round probability variation”. Each of the three types of winning symbols may further include a plurality of winning symbols. For example, in the case of “4 round probability variation symbol”, “4 round probability variation symbol 1”, “4 round probability variation symbol 2”, “4 round probability variation symbol 3”, and so on.

  Moreover, in this embodiment, the selection ratio of the winning symbol selected at the time of the big winning of the internal lottery corresponding to the first special symbol and the second special symbol is different. For this reason, the main control CPU 72 distinguishes the winning symbol to be selected depending on whether the result of the big hit this time corresponds to the first special symbol or the second special symbol.

[First Special Symbol Big Stop Stop Symbol Selection Table]
FIG. 18 is a diagram showing a configuration column of the first special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table. When the result of this big hit corresponds to the first special symbol, the main control CPU 72 refers to the first special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table (winning type defining means) shown in FIG. decide.

  In the first special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, the left column shows the distribution value by winning symbol, and each distribution value “48”, “26”, “26” has the denominator as 100. Corresponds to the ratio of cases. In the second column from the left, “2-round probability variation”, “4-round probability variation”, and “16 round probability variation” corresponding to each distribution value are shown. That is, at the time of the big hit corresponding to the first special symbol, the ratio of selecting “2 round probability variation symbol” is 48/100 (= 48%), and the rate of selecting “4 round probability variation symbol” is 100 minutes. 26 (= 26%), and the ratio at which the “16-round probability variation symbol” is selected is 26/100 (= 26%). The size of each distribution value corresponds to the selection ratio for each winning symbol using a jackpot symbol random number. Therefore, the selection ratio of the probability variation symbol for the first special symbol as a whole is 100%.

  In any case, if the current jackpot result corresponds to the first special symbol, the main control CPU 72 performs a selection lottery based on the jackpot symbol random number, and the selection ratio shown in the first special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table To select the winning symbol selectively. Further, in the first special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, for example, 2-byte command data is defined as a stop symbol command at the time of winning as shown in the third column from the left. The stop symbol command is described by, for example, a combination of MODE value-EVENT value, and among these, the MODE value “B1H” of the upper byte is selected when the winning symbol of this time is the big hit of the first special symbol. Represents. Further, the EVENT values “01H”, “02H”, and “03H” in the lower byte represent the types of winning symbols corresponding to each other in the selection table. For this reason, for example, if the result of the big hit this time corresponds to the first special symbol, and “2 round probability variation symbol” is selected as the winning symbol, the stop symbol command at the time of winning is described as “B1H01H” It will be.

  As described above, when the selected symbol is selected from the first special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, the main control CPU 72 generates a stop symbol command at that time. The generated stop symbol command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process described above, for example. Further, the main control CPU 72 determines a big hit stop symbol number for the first special symbol based on the selected winning symbol.

[Time reduction]
In the right column of the first special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, the value of the number of time reductions (limit number) given after the end of the big hit game is shown.
In the present embodiment, the number of time reductions is not given when the “two-round probability variation symbol” is met in the non-time reduction state. On the other hand, when the time reduction state corresponds to “2 round probability variation symbol”, the time reduction count is given 70 times.
In addition, when it corresponds to either “4 round probability variation symbol” or “16 round probability variation symbol”, the number of time reductions is given 70 times regardless of the presence or absence of the time shortening state.

[2nd special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table]
FIG. 19 is a diagram showing a configuration column of the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table. When the result of the big hit this time corresponds to the second special symbol, the main control CPU 72 refers to the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table (winning type defining means) shown in FIG. decide.

  Also in the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, the left column shows the distribution value for each winning symbol, and each distribution value “8”, “32”, “60” has a denominator of 100. This corresponds to the ratio of Similarly, in the second column from the left, “2-round probability variation symbol”, “4-round probability variation symbol”, and “16 round probability variation symbol” corresponding to each distribution value are shown. That is, at the big hit corresponding to the second special symbol, the ratio of “2-round probability variation” is 8/100 (= 8%), and the ratio of “4-round probability variation” is It is 32/100 (= 32%), and the ratio at which the “16-round probability variation symbol” is selected is 60/100 (= 60%). Therefore, also for the second special symbol, the selection ratio of the probability variation symbol as a whole is 100%.

  When the result of this big hit corresponds to the second special symbol, the main control CPU 72 performs a selection lottery based on the big hit symbol random number, and selects the winning symbol with the selection ratio shown in the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table To decide. Similarly, in the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, for example, 2-byte command data is defined as the stop symbol command at the time of winning as shown in the third column from the left. Again, the stop symbol command is described by the combination of the above MODE value-EVENT value. Among these, the MODE value “B2H” of the upper byte is the one selected when the winning symbol of the second special symbol is the current winning symbol. It represents that. Further, the EVENT values “01H”, “02H”, and “03H” in the lower byte represent the types of winning symbols corresponding to each other in the selection table. For this reason, for example, if the result of the big hit this time corresponds to the second special symbol, and “2 round probability variation symbol” is selected as the winning symbol, the stop symbol command will be described as “B2H01H”. .

  As described above, when the selected symbol is selected from the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, the main control CPU 72 generates a stop symbol command at that time. The generated stop symbol command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process described above, for example. Further, the main control CPU 72 determines a big hit stop symbol number for the second special symbol based on the selected winning symbol.

[Time reduction]
The fourth column from the left (right column) of the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table shows the value of the number of short hours given after the big hit game ends. The number of time reductions given is the same as in the case of a big hit with the first special symbol.

  Note that the selection ratio of the winning symbol differs between the first special symbol and the second special symbol as described above, for example, for the following reason. That is, in the present embodiment, the first special symbol and the second special symbol do not give priority to memory consumption and are consumed in the order of memory generation (winning order). In the state and the non-time shortened state), the two special symbols fluctuate almost alternately by the function of the ball sorting apparatus 200. In this case, if the first special symbol fluctuates, the selection ratio of “2-round probability variation” will be the highest at the time of winning, but if the second special symbol fluctuates, the selection ratio of “16 round probability variation” will increase. Since it becomes the highest, the advantages and disadvantages of the winning symbol are exchanged for each change, and a kind of interest can be given there. On the other hand, when shifting to the “high probability state” or the “time reduction state”, the variable start winning device 28 operates more frequently than in the normal time (when the time reduction function is not in operation), so the first special symbol The working memory for the second special symbol is more easily accumulated than the working memory for. In this case, if the selection ratio of “16 rounds probable big hit” is increased for the second special symbol, it becomes easier to win “16 rounds probable big hit” than usual, so that the player's profit can be increased accordingly. There is an advantage.

[See Figure 15: Special symbol change pre-processing]
Step S2412: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a big hit hour variation pattern determination process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the variation pattern (variation time and stop display time) of the first special symbol or the second special symbol based on the variation pattern determination random number shifted in the previous step S2200. The main control CPU 72 sets the value of the determined variation time in the variation timer, and sets the value of the stop display time in the stop symbol display timer. In general, in the case of big hit reach fluctuation, a fluctuation time longer than that at the time of loss is determined.

  In this embodiment, as a result of the internal lottery, when 16 rounds probable big hit or 4 rounds probable big hit is hit, for example, a “reach effect” is generated and control is made to make a big hit, or “reach effect” is generated The control which makes a big hit without doing it is performed. In the “Big hit variation pattern selection table”, variation patterns corresponding to a plurality of types of “reach effects” are defined. That variation pattern is selected. The reach production includes various reach production such as normal reach production, long reach production, special reach production, and the like. Also, when winning with the time shortening function activated, a variation pattern with a short variation time (a variation pattern without a reach effect) may be selected without selecting a variation pattern with a long variation time. Good.

[Example of big hit fluctuation pattern selection table]
FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating an example of the big hit hour variation pattern selection table (low probability or high probability non-time shortened state).
This selection table is a table used when winning 16 rounds or 4 rounds in a low probability or high probability non-time shortened state (fluctuation pattern defining means). In addition, this selection table has a structure in which, for example, “comparison value” and “variation pattern number” are stored as a set of 1 byte each in order from the head address. The “comparison value” includes, for example, eight different values “101”, “201”, “211”, “221”, “231”, “241”, “251”, “255 (FFH)”. “13” to “20” of “variation pattern number” are assigned to each “comparison value”.

  The variation pattern numbers “13” to “20” all correspond to the variation pattern that is a hit when the reach effect is performed. Among these, the variation pattern numbers “17” to “20” correspond to specific variation patterns that are hit after the special reach. The variation time of the variation pattern number “17” can be a variation time of 47 seconds, and the variation time of the variation pattern number “18” can be a variation time of 37 seconds. The variation time of the variation pattern number “19” can be a variation time of 27 seconds, and the variation time of the variation pattern number “20” can be a variation time of 17 seconds. These specific variation patterns are variation patterns in which the variation time is fixed, and the variation time is not shortened depending on the number of memories.

  The main control CPU 72 sequentially compares the obtained variation pattern determination random value with the “comparison value” in the variation pattern selection table, and if the random value is equal to or less than the comparison value, the main control CPU 72 corresponds to the comparison value. A variation pattern number is selected (variation pattern determination means). For example, if the variation pattern determination random value at that time is “190”, the main control CPU 72 determines that the random value exceeds the comparison value when compared with the first comparison value “101”. 201 "is compared with the random value. In this case, since the random value is equal to or smaller than the comparison value, the main control CPU 72 selects “14” as the corresponding variation pattern number.

FIG. 21 is a diagram showing an example of the big hit hour variation pattern selection table (high probability time reduction state).
This selection table is a table that is used when a 16-round big hit or a 4-round big hit is won in a high probability time shortened state (fluctuation pattern defining means). In addition, this selection table has a structure in which, for example, “comparison value” and “variation pattern number” are stored as a set of 1 byte each in order from the head address. The “comparison value” includes, for example, eight different values “101”, “201”, “211”, “221”, “231”, “241”, “251”, “255 (FFH)”. The “variation pattern numbers” “33” to “40” are assigned to the respective “comparison values”.

  The variation pattern numbers “33” to “40” all correspond to the variation pattern that is a hit when the reach effect is performed. That is, when the variation pattern numbers “33” to “40” are selected, a reach effect is performed, so that a big hit is obtained with a relatively long variation time (for example, 17 seconds or more).

  The main control CPU 72 sequentially compares the obtained variation pattern determination random value with the “comparison value” in the variation pattern selection table, and if the random value is equal to or less than the comparison value, the main control CPU 72 corresponds to the comparison value. A variation pattern number is selected (variation pattern determination means). For example, if the variation pattern determination random value at that time is “190”, the main control CPU 72 determines that the random value exceeds the comparison value when compared with the first comparison value “101”. 201 "is compared with the random value. In this case, since the random value is equal to or smaller than the comparison value, the main control CPU 72 selects “34” as the corresponding variation pattern number.

[See Figure 15: Special symbol change pre-processing]
Step S2414: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a big hit other setting process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines whether the winning symbol type (stop symbol number at the time of big hit) determined in the previous step S2410 is “16 round probability variation symbol”, “4 round probability variation symbol”, or “2 round probability variation symbol”. If it is, the value (01H) of the probability variation function operation flag is set in the flag area of the RAM 76 as the gaming state flag (high probability state transition means, probability variation function operation means).

  Further, the main control CPU 72 determines whether the winning symbol type (stop symbol number at the time of big hit) determined in the previous step S2410 is “16 round probability variation symbol”, “4 round probability variation symbol” or “2 round probability variation symbol”. In some cases, the main control CPU 72 sets the value (01H) of the time reduction function operation flag as a game state flag in the flag area of the RAM 76 (time reduction state transition means, time reduction function operation means). However, the “2-round probability variation symbol” is limited to the case where the time is shortened.

  In the process of step S2414, the main control CPU 72 determines the display mode of the stop symbol (big hit symbol) by the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35 based on the big hit time stop symbol number. At the same time, the main control CPU 72 generates a lottery result command (at the time of the big hit) together with the stop symbol command (at the time of the big hit). The stop symbol command and the lottery result command are also transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process.

Next, processing for small hits will be described.
Step S2407: The main control CPU 72 executes a small hit stop symbol determination process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the type of winning symbol at the time of small hit (stop symbol number at small hit) based on the big hit symbol random number. Similarly, the relationship between the big winning symbol random number value and the type of winning symbol at the time of small hitting is preliminarily defined in the special symbol selection table at small hitting (winning type defining means). In this embodiment, in order to reduce the load on the main control CPU 72, the winning symbol at the time of the small hit is determined using the big hit symbol random number, but a dedicated random number may be used separately.

[Winning pattern for small hits]
In the present embodiment, the winning symbol at the time of small hitting is only one type of “twice open small hitting symbol”. However, other types such as “one time opening small hit symbol” and “three times opening small hit symbol” may be prepared. As described above, “small hit” as a result of the internal lottery is not an opportunity for the subsequent state to change to “high probability state” or “time reduction state”, and thus is essential for this type of pachinko machine. A “one-time small hit symbol” can be provided without being bound by the definition of “two rounds (two times open) or more”.

  Step S2408: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a small hit hour variation pattern determination process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the variation pattern (variation time and stop display time) of the first special symbol or the second special symbol based on the variation pattern determination random number shifted in the previous step S2200 (variation pattern selection means). ). Further, the main control CPU 72 sets the determined variation time value in the variation timer, and sets the stop display time value in the stop symbol display timer. In the present embodiment, the reach variation pattern can be selected in the case of a small hit, or a variation pattern equivalent to that in the normal variation can be selected.

  Step S2409: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a small hitting and other setting process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the display mode of the stop symbol (small hit symbol) by the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35 based on the stop symbol number at the time of small hit. In addition, the main control CPU 72 generates a stop symbol command and a lottery result command (at the time of a small hit) to be transmitted to the effect control device 124. The stop symbol command and the lottery result command are also transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process.

  Step S2415: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes special symbol variation start processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 selects the fluctuation pattern data based on the fluctuation pattern number (out of time / hit). At the same time, the main control CPU 72 sets a special symbol variation start flag in the flag area of the RAM 76. Then, the main control CPU 72 generates a change start command to be transmitted to the effect control device 124. This variation start command is also transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process. When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 sets the special symbol changing process (step S3000) as the next jump destination and returns to the special symbol game process.

[Figure 14: Special symbol change processing, special symbol stop display processing]
In the special symbol fluctuation processing, the main control CPU 72 loads the value of the fluctuation timer from the register to the timer counter as described above, and then the timer according to the passage of time (clock pulse count number or interrupt counter value). Decrement the counter value. Then, while referring to the value of the timer counter, the main control CPU 72 controls the special symbol variation display as described above until the value becomes zero. When the value of the timer counter becomes 0, the main control CPU 72 sets the special symbol stop display in-progress process (step S4000) as the next jump destination.

  In the special symbol stop display process, the main control CPU 72 controls the special symbol stop display based on the stop symbol determined in the stop symbol determination process (step S2404, step S2407, and step S2410 in FIG. 15). The main control CPU 72 generates a symbol stop command to be transmitted to the effect control device 124. The symbol stop command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process. When the stop symbol is displayed for a predetermined time in the special symbol stop display process, the main control CPU 72 deletes the symbol changing flag.

[Special symbol memory area shift processing]
FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the special symbol storage area shift process. When the value of the working memory counter corresponding to the first special symbol or the second special symbol is greater than “0” in the previous special symbol fluctuation pre-processing (step S2100: Yes in FIG. 15), the main control CPU 72 Executes this special symbol storage area shift process. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along each procedure.

  Step S2210: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the oldest one of the existing working memories corresponds to the first special symbol. That is, when the storage area of the RAM 76 is accessed and the oldest working memory among them does not correspond to the first special symbol but corresponds to the second special symbol (No), the main control CPU 72 The process proceeds to step S2212.

  Step S2212: The main control CPU 72 designates the second special symbol as a special symbol for shifting the storage area. This designation is performed, for example, by setting “02H” as the target symbol designation value.

  Step S2214: On the other hand, if the oldest working memory corresponds to the first special symbol (Step S2210: Yes), the main control CPU 72 designates the first special symbol as the special symbol to be shifted in the storage area. . The designation in this case is performed, for example, by setting “01H” as the target symbol designation value.

  Step S2216: The main control CPU 72 shifts the random number storage area of the RAM 76 for the target special symbol designated in either step S2212 or step S2214. The details of the specific processing are as already described in the previous special symbol change pre-processing.

  Step S2218: Next, the main control CPU 72 subtracts the value of the operation memory counter for the target special symbol. For example, if the target to shift the current storage area is the second special symbol, the main control CPU 72 subtracts (-1) the value of the working memory counter corresponding to the second special symbol.

  Step S2220: Then, the main control CPU 72 sets “the number of operation memories at the start of fluctuation” from the value of the operation memory counter after the subtraction. Here, for both the first special symbol and the second special symbol, the value of the operation memory counter may be added and the “number of operation memories at the start of change” may be set.

Step S2222: Further, the main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the special symbol to be shifted in the current storage area is the second special symbol.
Step S2224: When the target is the second special symbol (step S2222: Yes), the main control CPU 72 sets the working command when the number of working memories is reduced for the second special symbol. The effect command set here is also generated as a one-word-length command, but its structure is in contrast to the above-described “effect command when increasing the number of working memories”. That is, the production command at the time when the number of working memories decreases is lower than the value of lower bytes (for example, “00H” to “03H” that represents the number of working memories after reduction with respect to the preceding value (for example, “BCH”) of the upper bytes representing the command type. )) And an additional value (for example, “10H”) meaning “decrease in the number of working memories accompanying consumption” is further added (logical sum) to the lower byte value. Therefore, for the lower byte, the second value becomes “1” by ORing the added value “10H”, and this value represents “the result (change information) due to the decrease in the number of working memories”. It will be a thing. In other words, if the lower byte of the command is “13H”, it means that the number of working memories up to the previous time “4” (command notation is “14H”) is reduced by one, so that the number of working memories this time is “3” (command The notation is “13H”). Similarly, if the lower byte is “12H” to “10H”, it means that the number of working memories “3” to “1” up to the previous time (command notation is “13H” to “11H”) is decreased by one respectively. This indicates that the current operation memory number is “2” to “0” (command notation is “12H” to “10H”). The preceding value “BCH” is a value indicating that the current effect command is the working memory number command for the second special symbol.

  Step S2226: If the current target is the first special symbol (Step S2222: No), the main control CPU 72 sets an effect command for reducing the number of working memories regarding the first special symbol. The command in this case is the same as the above except that the preceding value is a value (for example, “BBH”) indicating that the previous value is the working memory number command for the first special symbol.

Step S2228: Then, the main control CPU 72 executes an effect command output process. This process is for transmitting the production command for reducing the number of working memories set in the previous step S2224 or step S2226 to the production control device 124 (memory number notification means).
When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol variation pre-processing (FIG. 15).

[Special symbol stop display processing]
Next, FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the special symbol stop display process. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along each procedure.

  Step S4100: The main control CPU 72 subtracts the value of the stop symbol display timer (decrements by the interrupt period).

  Step S4200: The main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the stop display time has ended based on the value of the stop symbol display timer subtracted this time. Specifically, if the value of the stop symbol display timer is not 0 or less, the main control CPU 72 determines that the stop display time has not yet ended (No). In this case, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game process, jumps from the execution selection process (step S1000 in FIG. 14), and repeatedly executes the special symbol stop display process in the next interrupt cycle.

  On the other hand, if the value of the stop symbol display timer is 0 or less, the main control CPU 72 determines that the stop display time has ended (Yes). In this case, the main control CPU 72 next executes step S4250.

  Step S4250: The main control CPU 72 generates a symbol stop command and a stop display time end command. The symbol stop command and the stop display time end command are transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process. In addition, the main control CPU 72 erases the symbol changing flag here. The “stop display time end command” is a command indicating that the stop display time of the special symbol has ended (elapsed).

  Step S4300: Here, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the value of the big hit flag (01H) is set. When the value of the big hit flag (01H) is set (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S4350.

[When winning]
Step S4350: The main control CPU 72 sets the jump destination of the jump table to “variable winning device management process”. The main control CPU 72 executes processing for setting various functions to non-operation in this processing. Specifically, the probability variation function is deactivated and the time reduction function is deactivated. Thereby, before the special game (big player) is started, the state is shifted to the low probability non-time shortening state.
Step S4400: Then, the main control CPU 72 sets “start of big role (during big hit game)” as an internal state flag for control. Further, the main control CPU 72 sets the value of the continuous operation number status according to the type of jackpot symbol. For example, when the type of jackpot symbol is “16 round probability variation symbol”, a value corresponding to “16 rounds” is set in the continuous operation count status. When the type of jackpot symbol is “4 round probability variation symbol”, a value representing “4 rounds” is set in the continuous operation count status. Furthermore, when the type of jackpot symbol is “2 round probability variation symbol”, a value representing “2 rounds” is set in the continuous operation count status. Further, the main control CPU 72 generates a status command indicating that the big hit. The state command representing the big hit is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process.

  Step S4500: The main control CPU 72 generates a continuous operation number command. The continuous operation number command can be generated based on the type of big hit symbol (stop symbol number) determined in the previous big hit stop symbol determination process (step S2410 in FIG. 15). For example, when the type of jackpot symbol is “16 round probability variation symbol”, the continuous operation number command is generated as a value representing “16 rounds”. When the type of jackpot symbol is “4 round probability variation symbol”, the continuous operation number command is generated as a value representing “4 rounds”. Further, when the type of jackpot symbol is “2 round probability variation symbol”, the continuous operation number command is generated as a value representing “2 rounds”. The generated continuous operation number command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process.

  When the above procedure is completed at the time of the big hit, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game process.

[When not winning]
On the other hand, the following procedure is executed in cases other than the big hit.
That is, if the main control CPU 72 determines in step S4300 that the value of the big hit flag (01H) is not set (No), it next executes step S4600.

  Step S4600: The main control CPU 72 next checks whether or not the value of the small hit flag (01H) is set. If the value of the small hit flag (01H) is not set and is simply shifted (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S4602.

  Step S4602: The main control CPU 72 sets the special symbol variation pre-processing address as the jump destination address of the jump table.

  Step S4605: On the other hand, if the value (01H) of the small hit flag is set (step S4600: Yes), the main control CPU 72 sets the address of the variable winning device management process as the jump destination address of the jump table.

  Step S4606: Then, the main control CPU 72 sets “small hit start (during small hit)” as an internal state flag for control. Further, the main control CPU 72 generates a status command indicating that a small hit is being made. The state command representing the small hit is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process.

  Step S4610: Next, the main control CPU 72 loads the value of the number cut counter. In the “counting counter”, the counter values are set in the probability variation count area and the time reduction count area of the RAM 76 in the “high probability state” and the “time reduction state”. In the present embodiment, since the so-called frequency cut probability change function is employed, when shifting to the “high probability state” and the “time reduction state”, the frequency cut counter relating to the high probability state has a predetermined numerical value (for example, 70 times). Is set to a predetermined numerical value (for example, 70 times).

  Step S4620: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the loaded counter value is zero. At this time, if the count cut counter value is already 0 (Yes), the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game process. On the other hand, when the count cut counter value is not 0 (No), after generating the count cut counter value command, the main control CPU 72 next executes step S4630.

Step S4630: The main control CPU 72 decrements (subtracts 1) the count-down counter value.
Step S4640: The main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the subtraction result is not zero. As a result of the subtraction, when the value of the number cut counter is not 0 (Yes), the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game process. On the other hand, if the value of the number cut counter becomes 0 (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S4650.

  Step S4650: Here, the main control CPU 72 resets a flag at the time of turning off the number of times function. In this embodiment, since the count-off counter for the high probability state and the time shortening state is set to a predetermined numerical value (for example, 70 times), the time shortening function operation flag and the probability variation after the special symbol fluctuates 70 times after the special game. The function activation flag is reset. Thereby, the time shortening state and the high probability state are ended through the special symbol stop display. When the above procedure is completed, the process returns to the special symbol game process.

[Display output management processing]
Next, FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing a configuration example of the display output management process (step S210 in FIG. 9) executed in the interrupt management process. The display output management process includes a special symbol display setting process (step S1200), a normal symbol display setting process (step S1210), a state display setting process (step S1220), an operation memory display setting process (step S1230), and a continuous operation number display setting. This is a configuration including a subroutine group of processing (step S1240).

  Among these, the special symbol display setting process (step S1200), the normal symbol display setting process (step S1210), and the operation memory display setting process (step S1230) are the first special symbol display device 34, the second, as already described. Generates drive signals to be applied to the LEDs of the special symbol display device 35, the normal symbol display device 33, the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a, the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a, and the second special symbol operation memory number display lamp 35a. And output processing.

  The state display setting process (step S1220) and the continuous operation number display setting process (step S1240) are processes for generating and outputting a drive signal to be applied to each LED of the gaming state display device 38. First, in the state display setting process, the main control CPU 72 controls the lighting of the probability variation state display lamp 38d and the short time state display lamp 38e, respectively, according to the value of the probability variation function activation flag or the time reduction function activation flag. For example, if the value (01H) is set in the probability variation function operation flag when the pachinko machine 1 is turned on, the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the LED corresponding to the probability variation state display lamp 38d. The probability variation state display lamp 38d continues to be lit until the jackpot game related to the special symbol is started or until the probability variation function is turned off after the special symbol variation display has been performed a predetermined number of times. The display can be switched (off). On the other hand, if the value (01H) is set in the time reduction function operation flag, the main control CPU 72 turns on the lighting signal for the LED corresponding to the time reduction state display lamp 38e regardless of whether or not the power is turned on. Is output. Further, the main control CPU 72 controls the lighting of the launch position designation lamp 38f in accordance with the special game management status. For example, when the variable winning device 30 is activated by a big hit game or a small hit game, the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the LED corresponding to the launch position designation lamp 38f. If the value (01H) is set in the time reduction function operation flag, the main control CPU 72 gives a lighting signal to the LED corresponding to the launch position designation lamp 38f in addition to the above-mentioned time reduction state display lamp 38e. Output. Note that the launch position designation lamp 38f is turned on from the start of the big hit game until the end of the "time reduced state" when the game is shifted to the "time reduced state" through the big hit game, and is not turned on when the "time reduced state" ends ( OFF).

  The main control CPU 72 controls lighting of the big hit type display lamps 38a, 38b, and 38c in the continuous operation number display setting process. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal for any one of the big hit type display lamps 38a, 38b, 38c based on the value of the above-mentioned continuous operation number status. At this time, one of the display lamps 38a, 38b, and 38c corresponding to the jackpot symbol designated by the value of the continuous operation count status is the target of outputting the lighting signal. For example, if the value of the continuous operation number status designates “16 rounds”, the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the lamp 38 c representing “16 rounds (16R)”. Further, if the value of the continuous operation number status specifies “4 rounds”, the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the lamp 38b representing “4 rounds (4R)”. Furthermore, if the value of the continuous operation number status specifies “2 rounds”, the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the lamp 38 a representing “2 rounds (2R)”.

[Variable winning device management process]
Next, details of the variable winning device management process will be described. FIG. 25 is a flowchart illustrating a configuration example of the variable winning device management process. The variable winning device management process includes a gaming process selection process (step S5100), a special winning opening opening pattern setting process (step S5200), a special winning opening / closing operation process (step S5300), a special winning opening closing process (step S5400), and an end. This is a configuration including a subroutine group of processing (step S5500).

  Step S5100: In the game process selection process, the main control CPU 72 selects the jump destination of the process to be executed next (any one of steps S5200 to S5500). That is, the main control CPU 72 selects the program address of the process to be executed next from the jump table as the jump destination address, and sets the end of the variable winning device management process in the stack pointer as the return address. Which process is selected as the next jump destination depends on the progress of the processes performed so far. For example, if the operation (opening / closing operation) of the variable winning device 30 has not started yet, the main control CPU 72 selects the large winning opening opening pattern setting process (step S5200) as the next jump destination. On the other hand, if the winning opening opening pattern setting process has already been completed, the main control CPU 72 selects the winning opening opening / closing operation process (step S5300) as the next jump destination, and has completed the winning opening opening / closing operation process. Then, the special winning opening closing process (step S5400) is selected as the next jump destination. When the big prize opening / closing operation process and the big prize opening closing process are repeatedly executed over the set number of continuous operations (number of rounds), the main control CPU 72 selects an end process (step S5500) as the next jump destination. . Hereinafter, each process will be described in more detail.

[Big prize opening pattern setting process]
FIG. 26 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the special winning opening opening pattern setting process. This process is for setting conditions such as the number of times that the variable winning device 30 is opened and closed and the time for each opening at the time of big hit or small hit. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along each procedure.

  Step S5202: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the current gaming state is a big game, that is, whether or not the big hit flag value (01H) is set in the flag area of the RAM 76. If the value of the big hit flag is set (Yes), the main control CPU 72 then proceeds to step S5204. On the other hand, if the value of the big hit flag is not set (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S5212. Note that this procedure may be rewritten to refer to the value of the small hit flag (however, the logic of Yes / No is reversed).

[Procedure for jackpot]
First, the procedure for the big hit is as follows.
Step S5204: The main control CPU 72 executes a design-specific release pattern setting process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the winning pattern opening pattern (number of times of opening for each round and the time of each opening), the interval time between rounds, and the number of counts in one round (maximum) according to the current winning symbol. Set the number of winnings). Note that the opening pattern for each winning symbol is as described in the item “plural winning types” in the special symbol game process (FIG. 14). In addition, the interval time between rounds is set to about 2 seconds for “2-round probability variation design”, for example, and for “4 round probability variation design” and “16 round probability variation design” several seconds (for example, 2 seconds to 2.5 seconds). ) Shall be set to a degree. Note that the number of counts in one round (maximum number of winnings) is, for example, 9 for all winning symbols, but winnings rarely occur during an extremely short opening (about 0.1 seconds) ( Not impossible but extremely difficult).

  Step S5206: The main control CPU 72 sets the number of execution rounds in the current jackpot game based on the jackpot winning symbol selected in the previous jackpot stop symbol determination process (step S2410 in FIG. 15). Specifically, if the large category “16-round probability variation symbol” is selected as the winning symbol, the main control CPU 72 sets the number of execution rounds to sixteen. Further, if “4 round probability variation symbol” is selected as the winning symbol, the main control CPU 72 sets the number of execution rounds to four. Furthermore, if “2 round probability variation symbol” is selected as the winning symbol, the main control CPU 72 sets the number of execution rounds to two. The number of execution rounds set here is stored in the buffer area of the RAM 76, for example, as a corresponding value on the program (“1” for 2 times, “3” for 4 times, “15” for 16 times).

  Step S5208: Next, the main control CPU 72 sets a big hit opening timer based on the big winning opening opening pattern set in the previous step S5204. The timer value set here is the opening time per operation when the variable winning device 30 is operated. If a value of about 29.0 seconds is set as the value of the big hit release timer, the release time is a sufficient time (for example, a launch control board) that the big winning opening is easily generated during one release. The set 174 is a time during which 10 or more game balls are fired, preferably 6 seconds or more. On the other hand, if the value of the big hit release timer is set to 0.1 seconds, the release time is short (becomes difficult) even if it is not possible to win a big prize opening during one opening. This is a time (for example, a time shorter than 1 second, preferably a time shorter than a game ball firing interval by the firing control board set 174).

  Step S5210: The main control CPU 72 sets a big hit interval timer based on the big winning opening opening pattern set in the previous step S5204. The timer value set here is the waiting time between rounds of big hits.

  Step S5220: When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the big winning opening / closing operation processing, and returns to the variable winning device management processing.

[Procedure for small hits]
Step S5212: On the other hand, in the case of a small hit (step S5202: No), the main control CPU 72 sets a “small hit opening pattern”. In the case of the present embodiment, for the “small hit opening pattern”, for example, an opening pattern of “0.1 second opening” is set for the first time and the second time. Since “small hit” has no concept of “round”, “open pattern” is also expressed as “first open” and “second open”.

  Step S5214: The main control CPU 72 sets the number of times that the special winning opening is opened based on the large winning opening opening pattern set in the previous step S5212, for example, two times. The number of releases set here is stored in a buffer area of the RAM 76, for example.

  Step S5216: Next, the main control CPU 72 sets a small hitting release timer. The timer value set here is the opening time per operation when the variable winning device 30 is operated. In the present embodiment, as described above, 0.1 seconds is set as the value of the small hit release timer, and in such an open time, most of the winnings at the big prize opening occur during one open. No (becomes difficult) short time (for example, a time shorter than one second, preferably a time shorter than the interval between game balls fired by the launcher unit).

  Step S5218: The main control CPU 72 sets a small hitting interval timer. The timer value set here is a waiting time for each time when the variable winning device 30 is opened and closed a plurality of times at the time of a small hit, and this timer value is set to about 2 seconds, for example.

  Step S5220: When the above procedure is completed at the time of the small hit, the main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the large winning opening / closing operation processing, and returns to the variable winning device management processing. The main control CPU 72 then executes a special winning opening / closing operation process.

[Big prize opening / closing operation processing]
FIG. 27 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the special winning opening / closing operation process. This process is mainly for controlling the opening / closing operation of the variable winning device 30. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along a procedure.

  Step S5302: The main control CPU 72 opens the special winning opening. Specifically, a drive signal to be applied to the special winning opening solenoid 90 is output. Thereby, the variable prize-winning apparatus 30 operates and shifts from the closed state to the open state.

  Step S5304: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes an open timer countdown process. In this process, the countdown of the release timer set in the previous winning opening opening pattern setting process (step S5208 or step S5216 in FIG. 26) is executed.

  Step S5306: Subsequently, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the opening time has expired. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the release timer after the countdown process is 0 or less. If the value of the release timer is not yet 0 or less (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5308. Execute.

  Step S5308: The main control CPU 72 executes a winning ball count process. In this process, the number of game balls won in the variable winning device 30 (open winning opening) within the opening time is counted. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 increments the count value based on the winning detection signal input from the count switch 84 within the opening time.

  Step S5310: Next, the main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the current count number is less than a predetermined number (9). This predetermined number defines the upper limit of the number of winning balls (upper limit of the number of winning balls) allowed per opening (one round in the big hit, one in the small hit) as described above. If the count has not yet reached the predetermined number (Yes), the main control CPU 72 returns to the variable winning device management process. Then, when the variable winning device management process is executed next, since the jump destination is set to the large winning opening / closing operation process at the present stage, the main control CPU 72 repeatedly executes the procedure of the above steps S5302 to S5310.

  If it is determined in step S5306 that the opening time has expired (Yes), or if it is confirmed in step S5310 that the count has reached a predetermined number (No), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S5312. Note that the release at the time of the small hit is that the value of the release timer is set to a short time, and therefore, the main control CPU 72 normally confirms that the count number has reached the predetermined number in step S5310 before step S5306. In most cases, it is determined that the opening time has ended.

  Step S5312: The main control CPU 72 closes the special winning opening. Specifically, the output of the drive signal applied to the special winning opening solenoid 90 is stopped. As a result, the variable winning device 30 returns from the open state to the closed state.

  Step S5314: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes interval standby processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 executes a countdown of the interval timer set in the above-described special winning opening opening pattern setting process (step S5210 or step S5218 in FIG. 26). When the value of the interval timer becomes 0 or less, the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S5316. Although not specifically shown here, until the interval time elapses (until the interval timer value becomes 0), the main control CPU 72 manages the variable winning device management that is the caller from step S5314 for each interrupt. Return to the end address of the process (FIG. 25). When the special winning opening opening / closing operation process is executed at the next call, step S5314 is executed directly, not from the top step S5302.

  Step S5316: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not it is in a big role (during big hit game). If the current game is a big game (Yes), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S5318. On the other hand, if the current game is a small hit (No), the main control CPU 72 then proceeds to step S5322.

  Step S5318: The main control CPU 72 increments the value of the opening number counter. Note that the value of the number-of-releases counter is stored in the count area of the RAM 76 with an initial value of 0, for example.

  Step S5320: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the value of the incremented number-of-releases counter has reached the number set within the current round. Here, the reason why the “number of times set in the current round” is determined is to deal with an opening pattern of “opening the variable winning device 30 multiple times within one round of big hit”, for example. . In the present embodiment, since such an open pattern is not particularly employed, the “number of times set in the current round” is set once for each round. Accordingly, since the counter value reaches the set number of times in one opening / closing operation (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next proceeds to step S5322.

  If a pattern in which a plurality of opening / closing operations are repeated in one round as described above is employed, the counter value has not yet reached the set number of times at the end of one opening (No). In this case, when the main control CPU 72 returns to the variable winning device management process, the jump destination is set to the big winning opening / closing operation process at the present stage, and thus the procedure from step S5302 to step S5320 is repeatedly executed. As a result, the increment of the number-of-releases counter proceeds in step S5318, and when the counter value reaches the set number of times (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S5322.

  Step S5322: The main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the big winning opening closing process, and returns to the variable winning device management process. Then, when the variable winning device management process is executed next, the main control CPU 72 executes a special winning opening closing process.

[Large prize closing process]
FIG. 28 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure for a special winning opening closing process. This special winning opening closing process is for continuing the operation of the variable winning device 30 or terminating the operation. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along a procedure.

  Step S5401: First, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the current game is a big game (big hit game), and if it is a big game (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5402.

  Step S5402: The main control CPU 72 increments the round number counter. Thereby, for example, the value of the round number counter is “1” at the stage where the first round ends and the second round is reached.

  Step S5404: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the incremented round number counter value has reached the set number of execution rounds. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 refers to the value (1-14) of the round number counter after increment, and if the value is less than the set number of execution rounds (1-14 after 1 subtraction) (No) Next, step S5405 is executed.

  Step S5405: The main control CPU 72 generates a round number command from the current round number counter value. This command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process as described above. The effect control device 124 can confirm the current number of rounds based on the received round number command.

  Step S5406: The main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination in the big prize opening / closing operation process.

  Step S5408: The main control CPU 72 resets the winning ball counter and returns to the variable winning device management process.

  When the main control CPU 72 next executes the variable winning device management process, the main control CPU 72 executes a big prize opening opening / closing operation process which is the next jump destination in the game process selection process (step S5100 in FIG. 25). Then, after execution of the special prize opening / closing operation process, through the execution of the special prize opening closing process, the main control CPU 72 executes the special prize opening closing process again, and repeatedly executes the above steps S5402 to S5408. As a result, the opening / closing operation of the variable winning device 30 is continuously executed until the actual number of rounds reaches the set number of execution rounds (2, 4, or 16).

  When the actual number of rounds reaches the set number of execution rounds (step S5404: YES), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5410.

  Step S5410, Step S5412: In this case, when the main control CPU 72 resets the round number counter (= 0), it sets the next jump destination to the end process.

  Step S5408: The main control CPU 72 resets the winning ball counter and returns to the variable winning device management process. As a result, when the main control CPU 72 next executes the variable winning device management process, the end process is selected this time.

[At small hits]
On the other hand, in the case of a small hit, the procedure is as follows (special operation execution means).
Step S5411: When the main control CPU 72 confirms that the current game is not playing a major role (step S5401: No), the main control CPU 72 increments the value of the number-of-releases counter.

  Step S5413: Next, the main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the value of the incremented number-of-releases counter has reached the set number of times of release. The number of times of opening is set in the previous big opening opening pattern setting process (step S5214 in FIG. 26). If the value of the opening number counter has not yet reached the set opening number (No), the main control CPU 72 executes step S5416.

Step S5416: The main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination in the special winning opening / closing operation process.
Step S5408: The main control CPU 72 resets the winning ball counter and returns to the variable winning device management process.

  When the main control CPU 72 next executes the variable winning device management process, the main control CPU 72 executes a big prize opening opening / closing operation process which is the next jump destination in the game process selection process (step S5100 in FIG. 25). Then, after the execution of the special prize opening / closing operation process, the main control CPU 72 executes the special prize opening closing process again through the execution of the special prize opening closing process, and goes through the above steps S5401 to S5413 (No) to step S5416. Step S5408 is repeatedly executed. Thereby, the opening / closing operation of the variable prize device 30 is repeatedly executed until the actual number of times of opening reaches the set number of times of opening (2 times).

  When the actual number of times of opening at the small hit reaches the set number of times of opening (step S5413: Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5414.

  Step S5414, Step S5412: In this case, the main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the end process when the release counter is reset (= 0).

  Step S5408: The main control CPU 72 resets the winning ball counter and returns to the variable winning device management process. As a result, when the main control CPU 72 next executes the variable winning device management process, the end process is selected this time.

〔End processing〕
FIG. 29 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the end process. This end process is for preparing conditions for ending the operation of the variable prize apparatus 30. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along the example of a procedure.

  Step S5502: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the value of the big hit flag (01H) is set, and if the value of the big hit flag is set (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5503. To do.

  Step S5503, Step S5504: In this case, the main control CPU 72 resets the big hit flag (00H). As a result, the big hit gaming state ends on the control processing of the main control CPU 72. In addition, the main control CPU 72 deletes “big hit” from the internal state flag and declares the end of the major role as the internal state in the control processing. The main control CPU 72 resets the value of the continuous operation number status.

  Step S5506: Next, the main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the value (01H) of the probability variation function operation flag is set. This flag is set in the big hit other setting process (step S2414 in FIG. 15) during the previous special symbol fluctuation pre-processing.

  Step S5508: When the value of the probability variation function activation flag is set (step S5506: Yes), the main control CPU 72 sets the probability variation number (for example, 70 times). The set value of the probability variation number is stored, for example, in the probability variation counter area of the RAM 76 and becomes the above-described number cut counter value. The probability variation number set here is the upper limit number of times that the variation of the special symbol (internal lottery) is performed in a high probability state in the subsequent games. In this embodiment, since a substantial upper limit is set for the high probability state, the winning result may not be obtained in the high probability state and the state may return to the low probability state (so-called frequency cut probability changer; ST machine). . If the value of the probability variation function activation flag is not set (step S5506: No), the main control CPU 72 does not execute step S5508, but since the probability variation ratio is 100% in the present embodiment, step S5508 is always performed. Executed.

  Step S5510: Next, the main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the value of the time reduction function operation flag (01H) is set. This flag is also set in the big hit other setting process (step S2414 in FIG. 15) during the previous special symbol fluctuation pre-processing.

  Step S5512: If the value of the time shortening function operation flag is set (step S5510: Yes), the main control CPU 72 sets the number of time shortening (for example, 70 times). The value of the set time reduction count is stored in the time count area of the RAM 76 as described above. The number of times of time reduction set here is the upper limit number of times to shorten the variation time of the special symbol in subsequent games. If the value of the time shortening function activation flag is not set (step S5510: No), the main control CPU 72 does not execute step S5512.

  Step S5514: Then, the main control CPU 72 generates a state designation command based on various flags. Specifically, a state designation command representing “normal” is generated as the gaming state when the big hit flag is reset or the big game ends. If the high-probability state function activation flag is set, a state designation command indicating “high probability” is generated as the internal state, and if the time reduction function activation flag is set, the internal state is “reduced time”. A state designation command representing “medium” is generated. These state designation commands are transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process.

  The procedure so far is a big hit, but in the case of a big hit (step S5502: No), the following procedure is executed.

  Steps S5520 and S5522: In the case of a small hit, the main control CPU 72 resets the value of the small hit flag (00H) and deletes “small hit” from the internal state flag. It should be noted that in the case of a small hit, the internal condition device does not operate in particular, so such a procedure is merely for the purpose of erasing the flag.

  Step S5516: After the above procedure, the main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination in the special winning opening opening pattern setting process.

  Step S5518: The main control CPU 72 sets the jump destination in the execution selection process (step S1000 in FIG. 14) in the special symbol game process to the special symbol change pre-process. When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the variable winning device management process.

[Example of production image]
Next, the effect image actually displayed on the liquid crystal display 42 in the pachinko machine 1 will be described with some examples. As described above, when the big hit internal lottery is performed in the pachinko machine 1, the variation pattern (variation time) is determined under the control of the main control CPU 72, and the variation display by the first special symbol and the second special symbol is performed. (Design display means). However, as described above, the first special symbol and the second special symbol itself are lighted and blinked by 7-segment LEDs, so that they have poor appeal. Similarly, the stop display mode of the first special symbol or the second special symbol by the first symbol display device 34 or the second symbol display device 35 is also a symbolic design by 7 segment LED or the like. The visual impact of " Therefore, in the pachinko machine 1, the variable display effect and the stop display effect using the effect symbol are performed as described above.

  The effect designs include, for example, a left effect symbol, a middle effect symbol, and a right effect symbol, which are displayed side by side on the left, middle, and right on the screen of the liquid crystal display 42 (see FIG. 1). ). Each effect design is a design of a picture card with a character attached together with the numbers “1” to “9”, for example. Here, the left effect symbol, the middle effect symbol, and the right effect symbol all constitute a symbol row (effect symbol array) arranged in descending order of numbers “9” to “1”. Such a symbol sequence is variably displayed so as to flow (scroll) in the vertical direction in the left region, middle region, and right region on the screen. In addition, although scroll is mentioned as an example here, it is also possible to change the effect symbols in a manner in which each effect symbol is rearranged in order or in turn while being reversed. In addition, the scrolling direction may be not only the vertical direction but also the horizontal direction, and the scrolling is performed in a state in which each effect symbol is gradually enlarged and displayed from the back side to the near side of the screen. An aspect may be sufficient.

  FIG. 30 is a continuous diagram showing an example of the effect image corresponding to the change display and stop display of the special symbol. Here, an example of the change display effect and the stop display effect performed using the effect symbol is shown for the variation of the special symbol at the time of non-winning (out). This variable display effect is performed between the start of the variable display of the special symbol (here, the first special symbol, but may be the second special symbol) and the stop display (including the fixed stop). It corresponds to a series of productions. Further, the stop display effect is an effect that represents that the special symbol is stopped and displayed and the result of the internal lottery at that time is a combination of the effect symbols. Here, before explaining the specific contents of the control processing, the basic flow of the change display effect and stop display effect for each change employed in the present embodiment will be described.

[Before change display]
FIG. 30A: For example, in a state before the first special symbol starts to change (a state where the demonstration effect is not being performed), a row of three effect symbols is displayed large on the screen of the liquid crystal display 42. ing. At this time, in accordance with the stop display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol, the effect symbol is also stopped. In the present embodiment, the left, middle, and right effect symbols are arranged one by one at the time of stop display, and the three effect symbols form a combination (so-called one-line display). A combination of effect symbols may be configured not only on a horizontal line but also on a diagonal line by stopping and displaying two or more effect symbols in a row.

  In addition, on the lower part of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42, markers indicating the number of working memories of the first special symbol and the second special symbol (reference numerals M1 and M2 are attached in the figure) are displayed. . These markers M1 and M2 indicate the number of operating memories of the first special symbol and the second special symbol corresponding to the respective display numbers (the number of displays of the first special symbol operating memory lamp 34a and the second special symbol operating memory lamp 35a). The number of displays is increased or decreased in conjunction with the change in the number of working memories during the game. In addition, for the markers M1 and M2, the marker M1 corresponding to the first special symbol is displayed as, for example, a circle (◯) in order to facilitate visual discrimination, and the marker M2 corresponding to the second special symbol is, for example, a heart And are color-coded from each other. In the present embodiment, the action memory corresponding to the first special symbol and the action memory corresponding to the second special symbol are likely to be alternately generated by the action of the ball sorter 200, and therefore, the example shown in FIG. As shown, the markers M1 and M2 are alternately lit and displayed from the normal time (low probability and non-time shortened state). Here, two markers M1 and M2 are respectively displayed. Of these, the leftmost marker M1 in the screen represents the oldest working memory, and the marker M2 adjacent to the right is the second marker M2. Represents the old working memory (memory number display effect executing means).

  Further, during the variation display of the effect symbols, for example, the fourth symbol (reference numerals Z1 and Z2 are added in the diagram) is displayed at the lower part of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42. The fourth symbols Z1 and Z2 are “fourth effect symbols” following the left, middle, and right effect symbols, and are displayed in a synchronized manner during the change display of the effect symbols. Note that the fourth symbols Z1 and Z2 are simple marks (for example, “□” figure) with colors, and for example, changing the display color can express a variable display. The fourth symbol Z1 corresponds to the first special symbol, and the fourth symbol Z2 corresponds to the second special symbol.

  Further, the fourth symbols Z1, Z2 are stopped and displayed in a mode (for example, white display color) corresponding to the dislocation. This is to objectively clarify that the stop display effect is correctly performed corresponding to the stop display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol, and that the pachinko machine 1 is operating normally. Is. Therefore, if the result of the internal lottery is “4 round jackpot” or “16 round jackpot” instead of “out of”, the 4th pattern is displayed in a manner corresponding to them (for example, blue display color or red display color). Z1 and Z2 are stopped and displayed.

[Variable display production start]
30B: For example, in synchronization with the start of change of the first special symbol, the change display effect is started by the scroll change of the three symbol rows on the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42 (the symbol). Production execution means). In other words, in synchronization with the start of fluctuation of the first special symbol, the display of the left effect symbol, the middle effect symbol, and the right effect symbol is scrolled (flowed) in the vertical direction on the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42 so as to change the display. Production begins. In the figure, the effect symbol variation display is simply indicated by a downward arrow. Also, during the variable display, each effect symbol is displayed in a transparent state (transparent display), and at this time, an image (background image) that is the background of the effect symbol is displayed on the display screen in an easily visible state. Has been.

  The background image in this case represents, for example, a landscape in which a female character wearing a yukata is sitting on a chaise lounge and relaxing as if the evening is cool. Such a background image expresses that the stay mode in the production is, for example, “normal mode”. In the present embodiment, the “normal mode” corresponds to a normal state in which the fluctuation time shortening function is inactive and the probability fluctuation function is inactive. In addition to this, various modes are provided for effects, and background images with different landscapes and scenes are prepared for each mode (status display effect execution means). The difference between these modes may correspond to an internal “time reduction state” or a “high probability state”. The mode corresponding to each internal state will be further described later. Although not specifically illustrated here, a mode in which a notice effect is performed by displaying an image of a character, an item, or the like on the display screen after that is also possible.

  Further, during the variation display of the effect symbols, the fourth symbol Z1 is variably displayed at the lower part of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42, and the fourth symbol Z1 expresses the variation display by changing its display color.

[Left design stop]
In FIG. 30, (C): For example, when a certain amount of time (about half of the fluctuation time) has elapsed, the left effect design first stops changing. In this example, the effect symbol representing the number “8” is stopped at the middle position of the screen. Here, illustration of the background image is omitted (the same applies to the following).

[Example of production when the number of working memories decreases]
Here, as shown in FIG. 30 (B), since the number of working memories of the oldest first special symbol decreases by one as the fluctuation starts, it is linked to the leftmost position accordingly. The number of displayed markers M1 is reduced by one. That is, the total number of working memories has been four in the order of the markers M1, M2, M1, and M2, but the marker (M1), which is the oldest (older) memory number display, is not displayed. The consumed production is performed together. As a result, the player can be instructed that the total number of working memories has decreased to three, and the working memory corresponding to any special symbol (in this case, the first special symbol) is consumed. Can be taught in an easy-to-understand manner.

  In the example of FIG. 30C, the first operation memory in the storage order is consumed and the remaining number becomes three, so that the three markers M2, M1, M2 remaining on the screen are each 1 There is an effect that shifts in one direction (here, left direction) one by one. As a result, the context of the change in the number of working memories can be accurately expressed in the production, and the player can be intuitively and easily informed that the working memory has been consumed and decreased by one. it can. Further, at this time, the marker M2 moves to the leftmost position in the screen, so that the player is informed that “the second special symbol will be consumed next = the second special symbol will fluctuate”. Can be presented.

[Right production symbol stop]
In FIG. 30, (D): After the left effect symbol, the right effect symbol stops changing thereafter. In this example, the effect symbol representing the number “3” is stopped at the middle position of the screen. Since it has already been determined that the reach state does not occur at this point, it is almost clear on the appearance that the current fluctuation is a non-reach (normal) fluctuation. Here, reach fluctuations due to slip patterns and the like are excluded. “Slip pattern” means, for example, that once the design symbol representing the number “7” stops, the design symbol slips by one symbol and the design symbol representing the number “8” stops, thereby developing reach It is to do. Alternatively, once the design symbol representing the number “9” stops, the design symbol that represents the number “8” stops as the design sequence slips by one symbol in the opposite direction. is there. In addition, for example, when a production symbol representing a completely different number such as “5” is temporarily stopped and a character appears on the screen and the right production symbol row is changed again, the number “8” is changed. There is also a pattern in which the effect design to be expressed stops and develops to reach.

[Stop display effect]
(E) in FIG. 30: The last medium effect symbol stops in synchronization with the stop display of the first special symbol. If the result of the current internal lottery is non-winning and the first special symbol is stopped and displayed in a non-winning (out-of-game) manner, the staging display effect is also performed in a non-winning (out-of-game) manner. Is called. That is, in the illustrated example, the effect symbol representing the number “1” is stopped at the middle position of the screen. In this case, the combination of the effect symbols is “8”-“1”-“3”. Since this is a gap, it is expressed in the production that the current variation corresponds to the normal “out of range”. At this time, the fourth symbol Z1 is stopped and displayed in a mode (for example, white display color) corresponding to the dislocation.

  The above is an example of the change display effect and the stop display effect (during non-winning) performed using the effect symbol for each change. Through such an effect, the player can have a sense of expectation for winning, and finally the result of the internal lottery can be clearly taught in the effect.

  In addition, the above example is for the case of non-winning, but at the time of big win (winning), after the reach effect is executed during the variable display effect, the effect symbol is stopped and displayed in a big win mode in the stop display effect. At this time, the stop display mode of the effect symbol basically corresponds to the winning symbol (stop display mode of the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35) selected internally by the main control CPU 72. Selected.

[Examples of production design]
FIG. 31 is a diagram showing an example of the effect symbol pattern in the initial setting. As described above, the effect symbol is a material used for the variable display effect and the stop display effect, and here, the symbol string is composed of nine effect symbols. As described above, each effect symbol has individual identifiability represented by the numbers “1” to “9”. Also, by assigning different female character images to the numbers “1” to “9”, each of the nine performance symbols has individuality. In addition, the effect symbol represents the relevance to the above-described winning symbol by the display mode (for example, display color or presence / absence of a decoration image) added to each number.

  That is, among the nine production symbols, those corresponding to the numbers “1”, “2”, “4”, “5”, “6”, “8”, “9”, for example, for each number A red display mode (non-specific mode) is added. For those corresponding to the numbers “3” and “7”, for example, a golden display mode (specific mode) is added to each number. ing. In addition, the decoration images (those that produce a sparkling visual effect) are added to the numbers “3” and “7” themselves, and “HYPER (hyper)” is added to each number. A decorative image (banner-shaped image) with the characters "" is added. For female character images, the hair color and pupil color should be used for those corresponding to the numbers “1”, “2”, “4”, “5”, “6”, “8”, “9”. Although it is a dark color display mode (non-specific mode), for those corresponding to the numbers “3” and “7”, the hair color and pupil color are set to the light color display mode (specific mode), The numbers “3” and “7” have a special visual impression.

  As described above, in this embodiment, the design symbols corresponding to the numbers “1”, “2”, “4”, “5”, “6”, “8”, “9” and the numbers “3”, The difference in display mode is obvious at a glance with the effect symbol corresponding to “7”. Then, by utilizing such a clear difference in display mode, the present embodiment corresponds to the numbers “1”, “2”, “4”, “5”, “6”, “8”, “9”. The effect symbol to be displayed indicates the relevance to the “4 round probability variation symbol”, while the effect symbol corresponding to the numbers “3” and “7” indicates the relevance to the “16 round probability variation symbol”. In the present embodiment, such a design pattern is set as an initial setting at the start of the game (for example, when the game hall starts business, when the pachinko machine 1 is turned on, after the RAM 76 is cleared, etc.).

  Based on the initial setting as described above, when a big hit is made in the internal lottery, the corresponding winning symbol (winning type) can be represented by the effect symbol. That is, when winning with “4-round probability variation symbol”, numbers “1”, “2”, “4”, “5”, “6”, “8”, “ A combination of effect symbols corresponding to any of “9” is used. On the other hand, when winning with “16 round probability variation symbol”, a combination of effect symbols corresponding to any of the numbers “3” and “7” is used for the stop display effect representing the result of the big hit. Hereinafter, an example will be described.

[Production example at the time of big hit]
FIG. 32 is a continuous diagram showing the flow of reach production executed in the big hit (winning). Here, in addition to the reach effect, a variable display effect, a stop display effect, and a notice effect are included. In addition, in this effect example, an example of a stop display effect that indicates which winning symbol is represented using an aspect (specific aspect or non-specific aspect) that represents the relevance of the winning symbol of the effect symbol. To do. In addition, an example of a notice effect (pre-reach notice notice effect, reach notice notice effect) executed during the variable display effect will be described.

  In the following reach production, after the first special symbol display device 34 (or the second special symbol display device 35 may be used), the first special symbol is “four round big hit” Stopped in the “16 round big hit” mode (eg 7-segment LED “self”, “yo”, “mouth”, “」 ”,“ F ”,“ E ”,“ L ”,“ Γ ”, etc.) (Reach effect execution means). In addition, in FIG. 32, each production | presentation symbol is simplified and shown only as the number. The markers M1 and M2 and the fourth symbols Z1 and Z2 are not shown here. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along the flow of production.

[Variable display effects]
In FIG. 32 (A): In line with the start of fluctuation of the first special symbol (or second special symbol), the columns of the left effect symbol, the middle effect symbol, and the right effect symbol are vertically displayed on the screen of the liquid crystal display 42. The variable display effect is started by scrolling in a direction (for example, from top to bottom).

[Preliminary production before reach (first stage)]
FIG. 32 (B): Next, in a relatively early stage of the variable display effect, the first stage pre-reach notice effect using the character's picture image (picture card) is performed. This pre-reach pre-announcement effect is a pre-announcement effect in which the change of the mode progresses in stages from one stage to a plurality of stages (for example, 2 to 5 stages) according to a predetermined order. The pattern image used in the pre-reach notice effect is located in front of the effect pattern that is displayed on the screen in a variable manner, for example, so as to appear suddenly from the left edge of the screen (other appearance modes) May be.) Note that the “pre-reach notice” means that a reach or a big hit is announced before any effect symbol is stopped and displayed. By executing such a “pre-reach announcement effect”, an effect of giving the player a sense of expectation that “it may develop into a reach = the possibility of a big hit increases” is obtained.

[Advance notice before the reach occurs (second stage)]
In FIG. 32C, after the first stage of the pre-reach notice effect is executed, the change of the pre-reach notice effect proceeds to the second stage. Here, an effect using a character pattern image different from the previous one is performed as the notice effect before the occurrence of reach in the second stage. Specifically, another pattern image additionally appears from the right end of the screen, and is displayed so as to overlap the front of the previously displayed pattern image. The picture image displayed at this time is larger in size than the picture image displayed previously. And the effect by the sound output that the character expressed by the picture image emits a dialogue (for example, “I will reach” etc.) is also performed.

  Such a pre-reach notice effect (second stage) using the second pattern image is one step further than the pre-reach notice effect (first stage) performed in FIG. It is a development type. In general, it may be expressed as “step-up notice” or the like, referring to the “pre-reach notice notice effect” that develops in this way. Here, an example is given in which the second-stage pattern image appears in the pre-reach notice effect, but the third-stage, fourth-stage, and fifth-stage pattern images appear and appear one after another. There may be. Further, for example, the size may be enlarged each time the third, fourth, and fifth-stage pattern images appear and appear one after another. Even at this stage, the variation display of the effect symbols is continued. In any case, it is possible to indicate to the player that there is a high possibility (expectation) that this change will be a big hit by making the change in the aspect of the pre-reach notice effect to more stages. (For example, the maximum expectation is suggested when progressing to the fifth stage).

[Stop of left design]
In FIG. 32 (D): The middle stage of the variable display effect is approached, and then the variable display of the left effect symbol is stopped. At this point, the effect symbol representing the number “6” is stopped at the left position of the screen.

[Occurrence of reach condition]
In FIG. 32 (E): Following the left effect symbol, for example, the change display of the right effect symbol is stopped. At this point, the effect symbol representing the number “6” is stopped at the right position of the screen, and the reach state of “6”-“being changed”-“6” has occurred. On the screen, an image that emphasizes one line that is in a reach state is also displayed. In addition, an effect of outputting a voice such as “Reach!” Is performed.

  After the reach state occurs, the reach production at the time of winning is executed (however, at this point in time, the winning result has not yet been expressed). In the reach production, only the production symbols corresponding to the tempered numbers (here, “6”) are displayed on the screen, and the others are not displayed. At this time, the effect symbols may be displayed in a reduced state at the four corners of the screen.

[Preliminary notice after reach occurs (first time)]
FIG. 32 (F): After a reach state has occurred, for a while, for example, an image representing a “heart” figure forms a group, and a post-reach notice effect (first time) is performed that passes diagonally on the screen. . In this case, the image of the “heart group” is suddenly displayed on the screen so that the visual appeal to the player can be enhanced. By executing such a notice effect after the visually lively reach occurs, the player can have an even greater expectation.

[Progress of reach production]
In FIG. 32 (G): Following the announcement effect after the first reach, for example, images representing the numbers “2” to “7” are displayed in a three-dimensional column on the screen. There is an effect in which numerical images are erased from the screen in the order of “2”, “3”, “4”. Such an effect is also performed for the purpose of suggesting (suggesting) or reminding the player that the number “6” is left as it is without being erased. If the number “5” is deleted and “6” remains in front of the screen, it means “big hit”, and if the number “6” is also deleted, it means “out of place”. In the case of a loss, for example, the number “7” is displayed on the screen after the number “6” is deleted. Therefore, during this time, the numbers “2”, “3”, “4”,... Are erased in order, and as the number “6” approaches, the player's tension and expectations The feeling will also increase. After this, for example, if up to the number “4” is erased on the screen, the next time the number “5” is finally erased, the possibility of a “hit” will increase. A feeling increases at a stretch.

[Preliminary notice after the occurrence of reach (second time)]
In FIG. 32 (H): When the reach production is approaching the final stage, the image of the character is suddenly displayed on the screen as if it is split into a large image, and the content that the character emits some dialogue (or silently) (The content may be a smile) The notice effect (second time) is performed after the occurrence of reach (cut-in effect). At this time, for example, the content of the reach effect is a development that “if the number“ 5 ”is erased, then the possibility of a big hit of“ 6 ”-“ 6 ”-“ 6 ”increases” ”. Therefore, by causing a character image to appear greatly at this timing, an effect of giving the player a sense of expectation that “may be a big hit” is obtained.

[Stop display effect]
In FIG. 32 (I): At the end of the variation time of the first special symbol or the second special symbol, the last medium effect symbol stops. In this example, the winning symbol internally corresponds to the “16-round probability variable symbol”, but in order to make it seem that it corresponds to the “four-round probability variable symbol”, the number “6” is used for the production. The effect symbol to be displayed is stopped and displayed at the center of the screen, and this time, an effect is provided in which the player is tentatively instructed that “a big hit with an effect symbol other than“ 3 ”and“ 7 ”has occurred.

  In FIG. 32 (J): Before the fixed stop display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol (end of the variation time), a temporary stop display effect by the effect symbol is performed. Here, “temporary” is used to develop into a re-lottery effect in the subsequent flow of the effect. Therefore, in the temporary stop display effect, the three effect symbols are apparently stopped and displayed in a combination of “6”-“6”-“6”, but are displayed so as to slightly swing within the display screen. ing. Further, the fourth symbol Z1 or the fourth symbol Z2 is still being displayed in a variable manner. At this time, the player is made to recognize that “the winner of the 4-round probability variation symbol is won”.

[Re-draw (promotion) production]
FIG. 33 is a continuous diagram showing the flow of the re-lottery effect. The following re-lottery effect is performed following the temporary stop display effect within the variation time of the first special symbol or the second special symbol (before the fixed stop).

  In FIG. 33A, for example, an image that prompts the push operation of the effect switching button 45 on the front side while the stop-displayed effect symbols constitute a combination of “6”-“6”-“6”. Is displayed. Thereby, it is possible to teach the player that “the re-lottery will be performed” and to have a sense of expectation for the subsequent development. Also, an effect image (here, a radial flash image) is displayed on the background of the production pattern.

  In FIG. 33 (B): When the effect switching button 45 is pressed, a spiral background image is displayed on the background of the effect symbol that is temporarily stopped, and “6”-“6”-“6”. While the entire combination of the production symbols of the rotation is rotating, the production is performed as if it is sucked toward the center of the spiral. Although not shown in particular, thereafter, the three effect symbols are reduced and displayed while rotating, and an effect is produced in which they are sucked into the central part of the spiral and become invisible.

  (C) in FIG. 33: Subsequently, an effect is produced in which another combination of effect symbols is a close-up on the entire display screen. In this example, a combination of effect symbols (“7”-“7”-“7”) corresponding to the number “7” is displayed in an enlarged manner, and right and left effect symbols centered on the middle effect symbol are displayed on the display screen. It is displayed outside.

[Re-draw lottery result announcement effect]
In FIG. 33 (D): An effect of announcing the result of the re-lottery is performed by displaying the effect symbols constituting the combination of the numbers “7”-“7”-“7” in the display screen. Is called. At this time, an effect image (radial flash image) is displayed on the background of the effect design, and character information “HYPER BORNUS” is displayed. As a result, the player is given the impression that “the four-round symbol“ 6 ”-“ 6 ”-“ 6 ”has been upgraded to the sixteen-round symbol“ 7 ”-“ 7 ”-“ 7 ”” ”. be able to.

  Although not shown in particular, after that, the confirmed stop display is also performed for the effect symbols in synchronism with the confirmed stop display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol. The effect design fixed stop display is performed, for example, in a state where the left, middle, and right effect symbols are restored to their initial sizes. By performing such confirmation stop display, the player can be informed that the final winning type has been confirmed in the production. Further, in this case, the fourth symbol Z1 or the fourth symbol Z2 is stopped and displayed in a mode (for example, red display color) corresponding to “16 round probability variation big hit”.

[Director during big role]
FIG. 34 and FIG. 35 are continuous diagrams partially showing an example of a big-bill effect performed during a big hit game in the case of “16 round probability variable big hit”. Here, it is assumed that the first win from the normal state (“low probability state” and “non-time shortened state”) is “16 rounds probable big hit (first time)”. In this case, in the present embodiment, during the jackpot game, a noticeable effect (change notice effect) of contents related to changing the aspect of the effect symbol from the initial setting is performed.

[At the start of one round]
In FIG. 34 (A): When the first round of the jackpot game is started, for example, character information corresponding to the number of rounds of “ROUND1” is displayed on the screen, and an effect image unique to the jackpot game (for example, Female character) is displayed. In addition, an effect design (here, the number “7”) corresponding to the current winning design is displayed at the lower right corner of the screen. In this way, by continuously displaying the winning symbol (so-called “remaining eye”) during the big hit game, the player can be continuously informed of the information that “the big hit with the seven effect symbols”.

(Displays “right-handed” during major roles)
Although not shown here, in this embodiment, since the variable winning device 30 is arranged on the right side in the game area 8a, the game area 8a is used as the launch position (launch direction) of the game ball during the major role. The right part of is specified. For this reason, the above-mentioned launch position designation lamp 38f is lit and displayed under the control of the main control CPU 72, and a launch position designation command representing “right-handed” is transmitted to the effect control device 124. In response to this, it is assumed that guidance information (an arrow indicating a right direction, a character of “right-handed”, etc.) prompting “right-handed” is displayed in the display screen on the production control by the production control CPU 126 (this) And so on)

[Change notice production start]
In FIG. 34 (B): After this, the big hit game proceeds smoothly and, for example, when the transition to the eighth round is made, the above change notice effect is started. In this example, for example, an image of a treasure box is displayed on the screen, and character information such as “treasure challenge” is also displayed at the upper position. At this time, the treasure chest is in a closed state, and it is unclear what is inside. This makes it possible for the player to recognize that “the effect of opening the treasure chest will be performed from now on”.

[During change notice production]
In FIG. 34 (C): When the next nine rounds are entered, the previous treasure chest is opened, and an effect in which some item appears from the inside is performed. In this example, a state where a heart-shaped object appears from a treasure box and emits light is expressed. In addition, character information “GET! (Acquired)” is displayed in the display screen. As a result, it is possible to remind the player that “some item has been acquired on stage”.

[End of change notice effect]
In FIG. 35 (D): Next, when the 10th round is reached, a powerful ray is emitted from the item acquired earlier, for example, an effect in which the design pattern representing the number “5” changes from the initial setting is performed. Is called. That is, in the initial setting (FIG. 31), the number “5” was displayed in red, but here it is changed to a golden display mode (specific mode) and a decoration image of “HYPER” is added. ing. In addition, the female character also changes its hair color and pupil color from dark to light, and has the same system as the female characters of the numbers “3” and “7”. In addition, since the number “5” itself does not change, the distinguishability as a production symbol is maintained.

[16 rounds]
(E) in FIG. 35: After this, the big hit game proceeds smoothly and shifts to the final 16 rounds. In addition, character information corresponding to the number of rounds of “ROUND16” is displayed on the screen, and a unique effect image is displayed during the big hit game. At this time, the item (heart-shaped object) acquired in the previous ninth round is displayed at the upper right corner position of the screen. In the lower right corner position of the screen, the effect symbol (number “7”) as the “remaining eye” is continuously displayed.

[At the end of a major role]
In FIG. 35, (F): At the timing when the big hit game ends (during the end process), the big end effect of the content teaching the internal state to be transferred thereafter is executed. In the example shown in the figure, character information “Fireworks mode has entered!” Is displayed on the screen. By executing such a big game end effect, the player can be instructed to shift to the “fireworks mode” in the “high probability state” and “time reduction state” as a privilege after the big hit game ends.

[Example of change in production design arrangement (1)]
FIG. 36 is a diagram illustrating a change example (1) of the effect symbol array after the end of the 16-round probability variation big hit game. 36A shows an aspect of the effect symbol array in the initial setting, and FIG. 36B shows an aspect of the effect symbol array after the change from the initial setting.

  In other words, as indicated by the alternate long and short dash line in the figure, in the initial setting (when the power is turned on), the production symbol representing the numeral “5” is a mode (non-specific mode) corresponding to the “4-round probability variation symbol”. However, after the end of the “16 round probability variation big hit game”, the effect symbol representing the number “5” has changed to a mode (specific mode) corresponding to the “16 round probability variation symbol”. It should be noted that such a change in mode is performed for all of the left, middle, and right effect symbol arrays.

  Therefore, until now, only 2 of the 9 symbols in the production symbol array included “16-round probability variation symbols”, but if “16-round probability variation big hit (first time)” is actually made, Through the change notice effect (FIGS. 34 and 35), the total number of “16 round probability variation symbols” increases (relatively decreases the total number of “4 round probability variation symbols”) after the big hit. When the “16 round probability variation big hit game” is finished, the change display effect and the stop display effect are performed using the changed effect symbol array. Thereby, it is possible to give the player an impression (profit) as if the ratio (selection ratio) of “16 rounds probable big hit” is high.

[Example of fireworks mode]
FIG. 37 is a continuous diagram showing an example of an effect in the fireworks mode. The “Fireworks Mode” on the stage will be transferred after the big game in the case of “4 rounds probable big hit”, “16 rounds probable big hit” or “2 rounds probable big hit (limited to winning in time-saving state)” This mode corresponds to the “high probability state” and the “time reduction state” in the control by the main control CPU 72. In the following, it is assumed that the “16-round probable big hit” is first hit from the normal state, the change notice effect (FIGS. 34 and 35) is executed during the big role, and after the big role is finished, the “fireworks mode” is entered. I will explain it.

  FIG. 37 (A): For example, by performing the first variation display after the end of the big hit game, the variation display of the effect symbol is performed in the “fireworks mode” state. The background image of the fireworks mode is a background image in which “a scene where fireworks are launched in the night sky” is expressed in order to deeply impress the player with the motif of fireworks.

("Right-handed" display in fireworks mode)
Although not shown here, in this embodiment, the start gate 20 is arranged on the right side portion in the game area 8a, and the game ball flowing down the right side portion in the game area 8a is opened. Since it is easy to enter the variable start winning device 28, the right portion (so-called “right-handed”) in the game area 8a is designated as the game ball launch position (launch direction) continuously during the “fireworks mode”. ing. For this reason, the launch position designation lamp 38f is lit and displayed on the control by the main control CPU 72 as in the case of a big player, and a launch position designation command indicating “right-handed” is transmitted to the effect control device 124. In response to this, during the “fireworks mode” on the effect control by the effect control CPU 126, guidance information (an arrow indicating a right direction, a character “right-handed”, etc.) prompting “right-handed” is displayed on the display screen. It shall be.

[Direction of display design]
In addition, the effect symbols being displayed in a variable manner are displayed transparently, but the effect symbol array at this time includes the effect symbol of the number “5” changed to “16 round probability variable symbols”. In addition, an item (a heart-shaped object) acquired by the change notice effect executed during the previous major role is displayed at the upper right corner position in the display screen. Thereby, the information regarding “the current possessed item on production” can be presented to the player. Note that the markers M1 and M2 and the fourth symbols Z1 and Z2 are omitted (the same applies hereinafter).

  In FIG. 37 (B): Since the first change (when not winning) after the end of the big hit game, all effect symbols are stopped and displayed ("3"-"1"-"7 "). Although not shown here, if the production symbol “5” is stopped and displayed, the display mode is changed. As a result, by making the player visually recognize the display pattern of the production pattern after the change by touching the occasion, the expectation and uplifting feeling that “the ratio of the 16 rounds probable big hits is still increasing” is given. You can hold them.

  In FIG. 37 (C): When the next variation is started, the second variation display is performed after the end of the big hit game. This “fireworks mode” is continued until the special symbol fluctuates 70 times. As described above, since the “fireworks mode” is “time shortening state”, the variable start winning device 28 is frequently operated, and if the game ball is launched by “right-handed”, The operation memory of the second special symbol is mainly accumulated. For this reason, after the working memory of the first special symbol that has existed before the start of the main character is interrupted, the variation display of the effect symbol accompanying the variation display of the second special symbol is often performed.

[When winning from fireworks mode]
As described above, the “fireworks mode” in the “high probability state” and the “time reduction state” continues up to 70 fluctuations, but if a win is obtained during this period, effects are produced in the following flow. The following explanation is based on the assumption that the next big hit corresponds to “4-round probability variation symbol”.

[Special Reach Production (First Production Example)]
38 to 46 are continuous diagrams partially showing a first effect example of the special reach effect that is executed during the change of the special symbol.
Here, the “special reach effect” is a reach effect composed of one or more effect blocks. In addition, the special reach production is a battle production in which a teammate character and an enemy character are played against each other, and when the teammate character wins against the enemy character, the team wins the game.
Here, first, a first effect example of a special reach effect executed using four effect blocks will be described.

[Variable display effects]
38 (A): The display of the left effect, the middle effect, and the right effect is scrolled in the vertical direction on the screen of the liquid crystal display 42 substantially in synchronization with the start of the change of the special symbol. Production begins.

[Left effect symbol stop]
FIG. 38 (B): When a certain amount of time has elapsed since the start of the variation of the special symbol, the left effect symbol representing the number “2” is stopped and displayed at the middle position of the screen.

[Four-round probabilistic symbol template (reach condition)]
(C) in FIG. 38: The right effect symbol is stopped and displayed after the left effect symbol. At this time, the right effect design representing the number “2” is stopped and displayed at the middle position of the screen. In addition, the effect design is variably displayed in a reduced state at the upper left corner position of the screen (“2” − “being changed” − “2”). In addition, since the production symbol representing the number “2” is “4-round probability variation symbol”, even if it becomes a big hit after this, there is a high possibility that it becomes “4-round probability variation big success”.

  Then, the image of the first enemy character “Panda” appears on the left side of the screen, the image of the “female character” that is the ally character appears on the right side of the screen, and the image of the character “VS” in the center of the screen The production that appears. Thereby, it can be taught to the player that the special reach production will start from now on.

[First production block]
In FIG. 39 (D): When the special reach effect is started, the effect in the first effect block is started.

[Branch production]
In the initial stage of each effect block in the special reach effect, a branch effect is executed that branches which one of the teammate character attack effect, the enemy character attack effect, and the equal effect is executed.
In the example shown in the drawing, the character “VS” displayed in the center of the screen slides to the left, the image of the panda is pushed out of the screen, and the effect that the image of the female character is displayed large is executed.

[Continuation of branch production]
(E) in FIG. 39: In the illustrated example, the branch effect is continued. Specifically, an effect is performed in which the character “VS” displayed in the center of the screen slides to the right, the female character image is pushed out of the screen, and the panda image is displayed in a large size.

[Result display of branch effect]
In FIG. 39 (F): At the final stage of the branch effect, the result is displayed. In the example shown in the figure, a panda that is an enemy character is displayed in a large size, and an effect of generating a dialogue such as “Gau!” Is executed. For this reason, it can be transmitted to the player that the enemy character attack effect is executed in the current effect block.

[Enemy character attack production]
In FIG. 40 (G): Enemy character attack effect by a panda character is executed. In the illustrated example, a “punch” effect that is a weak attack is executed. Here, if the attack of the enemy character can be avoided, the production proceeds to the next production block, and if it is attacked by the enemy character, it will be off.

[Attack avoidance production]
In FIG. 40 (H): When it is determined that the effect will proceed to the next effect block, an attack avoidance effect by the female character is executed. In the example shown in the figure, an effect is performed in which a female character successfully does a panda punch attack.

[Directing block progress effect]
In FIG. 40 (I): When the attack avoidance effect is executed, the effect proceeds to the next effect block, so the effect block progress effect is executed. In the example shown in the figure, a large right arrow image is displayed at the center of the screen, and the characters “NEXT” are displayed in the right arrow. With such an effect, the player can be informed that the stage of the special reach effect proceeds to the next effect block.

[Second production block]
In FIG. 41 (J): When the effect in the first effect block is finished, the effect in the second effect block is started.

[Branch production]
In the initial stage of each effect block in the special reach effect, a branch effect is executed that branches which one of the teammate character attack effect, the enemy character attack effect, and the equal effect is executed.
In the example shown in the drawing, the character “VS” displayed in the center of the screen slides to the left, the image of the panda is pushed out of the screen, and the effect that the image of the female character is displayed large is executed.

[Continuation of branch production]
In FIG. 41 (K): In the illustrated example, the branch effect is continued. Specifically, an effect is performed in which the character “VS” displayed in the center of the screen slides to the right, the female character image is pushed out of the screen, and the panda image is displayed in a large size.

[Result display of branch effect]
In FIG. 41 (L): At the final stage of the branch effect, the result is displayed. In the example shown in the figure, a female character who becomes a friend character is displayed in a large size, and an effect of producing a line such as “Success!” Is executed. For this reason, it can be transmitted to the player that the teammate character attack effect is executed in the present effect block.

[Allied character attack production]
In FIG. 42 (M): A friend character attack effect by a female character is executed. In the illustrated example, a “punch” effect that is a weak attack is executed. Here, if the enemy character can hit the attack, it will be won, and if the enemy character can avoid the attack, the production will proceed to the next production block.

  For this reason, when the teammate character attack production is executed, winning or continuation is confirmed, and when the teammate character attack production is executed, the player is notified that there is no defeat in the production block. As well as giving the player a sense of security.

[Attack avoidance production]
In FIG. 42, (N): When it is determined that the effect will proceed to the next effect block, an attack avoidance effect by the enemy character is executed. In the example shown in the figure, an effect is performed in which a panda character successfully does a punch attack on a female character.

[Directing block progress effect]
In FIG. 42 (O): When the attack avoidance effect is executed, the effect proceeds to the next effect block, so the effect block progress effect is executed. In the example shown in the figure, a large right arrow image is displayed at the center of the screen, and the characters “NEXT” are displayed in the right arrow. With such an effect, the player can be informed that the stage of the special reach effect proceeds to the next effect block.

[Third production block]
In FIG. 43 (P): When the effect in the second effect block is finished, the effect in the third effect block is started.

[Branch production]
In the initial stage of each effect block in the special reach effect, a branch effect is executed that branches which one of the teammate character attack effect, the enemy character attack effect, and the equal effect is executed.
In the example shown in the drawing, the character “VS” displayed in the center of the screen slides to the left, the image of the panda is pushed out of the screen, and the effect that the image of the female character is displayed large is executed.

[Continuation of branch production]
In FIG. 43 (Q): In the illustrated example, the branch effect is continued. Specifically, an effect is performed in which the character “VS” displayed in the center of the screen slides to the right, the female character image is pushed out of the screen, and the panda image is displayed in a large size.

[Result display of branch effect]
In FIG. 43 (R): In the final stage of the branching effect, the result is displayed. In the example shown in the figure, both a panda character and a female character are displayed, and an effect of producing a dialogue such as “Hot!” Is executed. For this reason, it can be communicated to the player that the equality effect is executed in the current effect block.

[Uniform production]
In FIG. 44 (S): In the uniform production, the player character-type production using the production switching button 45 is executed to push the enemy character and the friend character. In the example shown in the figure, an effect is performed in which a panda character and a female character face each other and are in contact with each other. And if the ally character pushes the enemy character off the screen, it will be won, and if the enemy character pushes the ally character off the screen, it will be unwinned, and if the settlement is not settled, the production will be directed to the next production block move on.

  Further, in the equal angle effect, a continuous hitting meter indicating the superiority or inferiority relationship of the equal angle effect is displayed at a lower position in the screen. A “continuation mark” is arranged in the middle portion of the continuous hitting meter, and a “win mark” is arranged in the right end portion. When the player continuously presses the effect switching button 45, the continuous hitting meter is lit in order from the left side, and if the "continuation mark" can be lit, the effect proceeds to the next effect block, and "winning" If you can light up to "mark", you win. On the other hand, even if the player continuously presses down the effect switching button 45, if the player cannot turn on the “continuation mark”, the player is not selected.

[Continuous production]
In FIG. 44 (T): the equal performance is continuously executed. In the illustrated example, when the player continuously presses the effect switching button 45, the continuous hitting meter is lit up to a point slightly beyond the “continuation mark”. When it is determined that the production will proceed to the next production block, the continuous hitting meter reaches the “continuation mark” but does not reach the “winning mark”.

[Directing block progress effect]
In FIG. 44 (U): When the repetitive strike meter reaches the “continuation mark” in the uniform production, the production proceeds to the next production block, so the production block progress production is executed. In the example shown in the figure, a large right arrow image is displayed at the center of the screen, and the characters “NEXT” are displayed in the right arrow. With such an effect, the player can be informed that the stage of the special reach effect proceeds to the next effect block.

[Fourth production block]
45 (V): When the effect in the third effect block is finished, the effect in the fourth effect block is started. Since the fourth effect block is the final block of the special reach effect, the winning or losing of the battle effect is determined in this fourth effect block, thereby determining whether or not the internal lottery is successful.

[Branch production]
In the initial stage of each effect block in the special reach effect, a branch effect is executed that branches which one of the teammate character attack effect, the enemy character attack effect, and the equal effect is executed.
In the example shown in the drawing, the character “VS” displayed in the center of the screen slides to the left, the image of the panda is pushed out of the screen, and the effect that the image of the female character is displayed large is executed.

[Continuation of branch production]
In FIG. 45 (W): In the example shown, the branch effect is continued. Specifically, an effect is performed in which the character “VS” displayed in the center of the screen slides to the right, the female character image is pushed out of the screen, and the panda image is displayed in a large size.

[Result display of branch effect]
In FIG. 45, (X): At the final stage of the branch effect, the result is displayed. In the example shown in the figure, a female character who becomes a friend character is displayed in a large size, and an effect of producing a line such as “Success!” Is executed. For this reason, it can be transmitted to the player that the teammate character attack effect is executed in the present effect block.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, the branch effect is executed for each effect block. Therefore, at the initial stage of each effect block, the tension of how the battle effect is developed next It can be given each time a production block is executed.

[Allied character attack production]
In FIG. 46 (Y): A friend character attack effect by a female character is executed. In the example shown in the figure, a “Taiko” effect that is a strong attack is executed. Specifically, an effect in which a wave is emitted from the drum is executed. If you can defeat the panda character in this state, you win. In the present embodiment, when the teammate character attack effect is executed in the fourth effect block, the victory is confirmed. This is because the ally character attack effect is determined to be more than the continuation, and since there is no concept of continuation in the fourth effect block, only the victory effect is inevitably selected.

[Attack hit production]
In FIG. 46 (Z): When the variation of the special symbol this time corresponds to winning, an attack hit effect is executed for the teammate character attack effect. In the example shown in the drawing, an effect is produced in which a wave hits the panda character, causing an explosion and causing the panda character to fly away.

[4 rounds jackpot stop display effect]
46 (a): When the female character is displayed large together with the characters “Victory !!” and the panda character is displayed small, the player is informed that the game is a big hit (winning) (when winning) Production). In addition, at the upper left corner position of the screen, the stop display effect is also performed for the effect symbol (“2”-“2”-“2”) substantially in synchronization with the stop display of the special symbol. The stop display effect of the effect symbol is performed in a state where the effect symbol is completely stopped without shaking. As a result, this time, “4 rounds probable big hit” has been confirmed without performing the re-lottery effect. After this, the player enters a big round game state of four rounds, and a big-game effect is executed on the screen.

[4 round big hits in fireworks mode]
In the present embodiment, the above-described change notice effect (FIGS. 34 and 35) is not performed during the 4th round. In addition, even if a big hit is made with the “4-round probability variation symbol” during the fireworks mode, the display pattern of the effect symbol does not change.

[Special reach production (second production example)]
47 to 52 are continuous diagrams partially showing a second effect example of the special reach effect that is executed during the change of the special symbol.
The second effect example is a special reach effect that is executed using three effect blocks, but is an effect example in which the special effect is executed across the second effect block and the third effect block.
In the following production examples, the content of the production before the reach state of the special reach production is the same as the content explained previously, so the explanation is omitted, and the stage after the reach state of the special reach production occurs A production example from will be described.

[16-round probabilistic design template (first production block)]
(A) in FIG. 47: So far, the reach state has been generated with the effect symbol representing the number “5”, and the special reach effect has been started. When the special reach effect is started, the effect in the first effect block is started. At this point, the display pattern of the effect symbol representing the number “5” has changed from the initial setting, so the current reach is “16 round probability variable symbol template”.

[Branch production]
In the initial stage of each effect block in the special reach effect, a branch effect is executed that branches which one of the teammate character attack effect, the enemy character attack effect, and the equal effect is executed.
In the example shown in the drawing, the character “VS” displayed in the center of the screen slides to the left, the image of the panda is pushed out of the screen, and the effect that the image of the female character is displayed large is executed.

[Continuation of branch production]
(B) in FIG. 47: In the example shown, the branch effect is continued. Specifically, an effect is performed in which the character “VS” displayed in the center of the screen slides to the right, the female character image is pushed out of the screen, and the panda image is displayed in a large size.

[Result display of branch effect]
(C) in FIG. 47: The result is displayed at the final stage of the branch effect. In the example shown in the figure, a panda that is an enemy character is displayed in a large size, and an effect of generating a dialogue such as “Gau!” Is executed. For this reason, it can be transmitted to the player that the enemy character attack effect is executed in the current effect block.

[Enemy character attack production]
(D) in FIG. 48: Enemy character attack effect by a panda character is executed. In the illustrated example, a “kick” effect that is a strong attack is executed. Here, if the attack of the enemy character can be avoided, the production proceeds to the next production block, and if it is attacked by the enemy character, it will be off.

[Attack avoidance production]
(E) in FIG. 48: When it is determined that the effect will proceed to the next effect block, the attack avoidance effect by the female character is executed. In the example shown in the figure, an effect is performed in which a female character does a panda kick attack.

[Directing block progress effect]
In FIG. 48 (F): When the attack avoidance effect is executed, the effect proceeds to the next effect block, so the effect block progress effect is executed. In the example shown in the figure, a large right arrow image is displayed at the center of the screen, and the characters “NEXT” are displayed in the right arrow. With such an effect, the player can be informed that the stage of the special reach effect proceeds to the next effect block.

[Second effect block and third effect block]
49 (G): When the effect in the first effect block is finished, the effect in the second effect block is started. Here, the special effect is executed across two effect blocks such as the second effect block and the third effect block. Here, the special effect is an effect of content that wins or loses due to the attack of the killing technique of the ally character and the enemy character. For this reason, the branch effect described in the first effect example is not executed.

[Special production start]
In the example shown in the figure, a female character is displayed large in the center of the screen, and an effect is produced in which the female character utters the line “I will settle!”.

  In FIG. 49 (H): Next, a panda character is displayed in place of a female character, and an effect of generating a dialogue such as “Gau!” Is executed.

  In FIG. 49, (I): In the illustrated example, a female character takes out a fan (weapon), and an effect in which a flame (aura) appears from the fan is performed.

  In FIG. 50 (J): In the illustrated example, the panda character takes out the crystal ball, and the crystal ball shines brightly.

  In FIG. 50 (K): Then, a female character's special technique is launched. Specifically, an effect in which a wave (beam) is emitted from a fan held by a female character is executed.

  (L) in FIG. 50: Similarly, a panda character's Special Move is launched. Specifically, an effect in which a wave is emitted from a crystal ball held by a panda character is executed.

  In FIG. 51 (M): An effect is produced in which the wave emitted from the fan and the wave emitted from the crystal ball collide at the center of the screen.

  In FIG. 51 (N): The power of both waves is balanced, and an effect is produced in which the portion where the waves collide moves to the right or to the left. In this state, if the ally attack hits the enemy, it will be a hit, and if the enemy attack hits the ally, it will be unwinned. Therefore, this situation is the final stage of special effects and is the most exciting part of the game.

[Cut-in notice effect]
In FIG. 51 (O): When the special effect has reached the final stage, a cut-in notice effect is suddenly displayed that is displayed so that the character image is split into a large image on the screen. In the example shown in the figure, three female characters are displayed in a diagonally cut area on the screen, and a scene in which all female characters are praying with their hands together is displayed. By executing such a cut-in notice effect, it is possible to suggest to the player the degree of expectation for the big hit.

[Attack hit production]
In FIG. 52 (P): When the variation of the special symbol this time corresponds to winning, an attack hit effect is executed with respect to a teammate character attack effect. In the example shown in the figure, the wave of the ally character collides with the wave that collided in the center, the wave of the ally character's side becomes stronger, the wave of the enemy character is rejected, and the enemy character's wave is still hit. Is approaching.

[Continue attack production]
In FIG. 52 (Q): In the example shown in the figure, an effect is performed in which a panda character is struck by vibrations, causing an explosion and causing the panda character to fly away.

[Stop display effect]
In FIG. 52, (R): When the female character is displayed large together with the characters “Victory!” And the panda character is displayed small, the player is informed that the game is a big hit (winning) (when winning) Production). In addition, at the upper left corner position of the screen, stop display effects are also performed for the effect symbols ("5"-"5"-"5") substantially in synchronization with the stop display of the special symbols. The stop display effect of the effect symbol is performed in a state where the effect symbol is completely stopped without shaking.

[16 rounds big hit confirmed production]
In FIG. 52 (S): Furthermore, a 16-round jackpot finalizing effect is performed by forming a combination of three left, middle and right effect symbols representing the number “5” in the display screen. At the same time, the character information “HYPER BONUS” is displayed. In this way, by using the effect design changed from the initial setting for “16 rounds probable big hit”, the player is given “16 rounds big hit with the number“ 5 ”that should have been 4 rounds initially. You can have a special feeling (deal). After that, the big hit gaming state is entered, and the big-game effect is executed on the screen.

[16 round big hit from fireworks mode]
In the present embodiment, as described above, when a big hit is made with the “16-round probability variation symbol” from the normal state, the display pattern of the effect symbol is changed from the initial setting through the change notice effect effect during the major role, and the effect symbol array after the end of the major role However, such a change in the effect symbol arrangement can be executed a plurality of times by repeatedly hitting the “16-round probability variation symbol” during the fireworks mode. Hereinafter, this point will be described.

[Conditions when changing mode]
In this embodiment, when any of the following conditions is satisfied, the display pattern of the effect symbol changes from the initial setting.
(1) When the first hit from the normal state corresponds to “16 rounds probable change pattern (first time)”, and the transition to “fireworks mode” is made after a notice of change notice during the big role.
(2) After the above (1), when the “16th round big hit game including the first hit (first time) and the fourth round round big hit game is finished without finishing the“ fireworks mode ”(4 round big hit or 2 round big hit in the middle) May be).
(3) After the above (2), when the 16th round of big hit games, including the first hit (first time), has been completed without finishing the “Fireworks Mode” (4 rounds or 2 rounds along the way) There may be a big hit).

[Example of changes after the second]
The change example (1) when the condition (1) is satisfied is as described above. Hereinafter, changes (2) and (3) will be described when the conditions (2) and (3) are satisfied.

  FIG. 53 and FIG. 54 are continuous diagrams partially showing an example of the big role effect executed during the jackpot game when the “fireworks mode” does not end and corresponds to the fourth “16 rounds probable big hit”. is there. In this case, when the condition (2) is satisfied, a change notice effect related to further changing the aspect of the effect symbol from the initial setting during the big hit game is executed.

[At the start of the fourth round of 16 rounds]
In FIG. 53 (A): When the first round of the 16th round probable big hit game of the fourth round is started without completing the “fireworks mode”, the character information “ROUND1” is also displayed on the screen. During the big hit game, a unique effect image (the previous female character) is displayed. In addition, an effect symbol corresponding to the current winning symbol (here, the changed number “5”) is displayed at the lower right corner of the screen. In the upper right corner position of the screen, items that have been acquired so far (heart-shaped objects) are displayed.

[Second change notice effect start]
(B) in FIG. 53: After this, the big hit game proceeds smoothly, and for example, when the game shifts to the eighth round, the second change notice effect is started. In this example as well, for example, an image of a treasure box is displayed on the screen, and character information such as “treasure challenge” is also displayed at the upper position. Thereby, it is possible to make the player recognize that “the effect of opening the treasure box will be performed from now on” as in the first time.

[During the second change notice production]
FIG. 53 (C): When the next nine rounds are entered, the previous treasure chest is opened, and an effect is produced in which some item appears from the inside. In the second example, the appearance of a diamond appearing from a treasure chest and emitting light is shown. In addition, character information “GET! (Acquired)” is displayed in the display screen. As a result, it is possible to remind the player that “an item has been acquired in the production”.

[End of second notice of change notice]
In FIG. 54 (D): Next, when the 10th round is reached, a powerful ray is emitted from the previously acquired item (in this case, diamond), and this time the design pattern that represents the number “1” is the initial setting. The production is changed from That is, in the initial setting (FIG. 31), the number “1” is displayed in red, but here it is changed to a golden display (specific mode) and a decoration image of “HYPER” is added. ing. The female character also changes its hair color and pupil color from dark color to light color, and is the same system as the female characters of the numbers “3”, “7”, and “5” after the change. In addition, since the number “1” itself does not change, the distinguishability as a production symbol is maintained.

[16 rounds]
In FIG. 54 (E): After this, the big hit game proceeds smoothly and shifts to the final 16 rounds. Character information corresponding to the number of rounds of “ROUND16” is displayed in the screen, and a unique effect image is displayed during the big hit game. At this time, the item (diamond) acquired in the previous 9th round is displayed together with the item (heart-shaped object) acquired in the first change notice effect at the upper right corner position of the screen. In the lower right corner position of the screen, the above-mentioned effect symbol (number “5”) as the “remaining eye” is continuously displayed.

[At the end of a major role]
In FIG. 54 (F): At the timing when the big hit game ends (during the end process), the big end effect of the content teaching the internal state to be transferred thereafter is executed. In the illustrated example, character information “Continue Fireworks Mode!” Is displayed on the screen. By executing such a big game end effect, it is possible to teach the player that the “high-probability state” and the “time reduction state” “fireworks mode” will continue after the big hit game ends.

[Examples of changes in production design arrangement (2)]
FIG. 55 is a diagram showing a change example (2) of the effect symbol arrangement after the end of the fourth 16-round probability variation big hit game. Here, (A) in FIG. 55 shows the aspect of the effect symbol arrangement in the initial setting, and (B) in FIG. 55 shows the aspect of the effect symbol arrangement after the first change from the initial setting. (C) shows the aspect of the effect symbol arrangement after the second change from the initial setting.

  In other words, as indicated by the alternate long and short dash line in the figure, after the initial setting (when the power is turned on) and after the first change, the effect symbol representing the number “1” corresponds to the “four-round probability variation symbol” Although it was a (non-specific mode), after the end of the fourth “16 round probability variation big hit game”, the production symbol representing the number “1” also corresponds to the “16 round probability variation symbol” (specific mode) ). Here again, such a change in the aspect is performed for all the left, middle, and right effect symbol arrays.

  Therefore, in the initial setting, only two of the nine symbols in the production symbol array included “16 round probability variation symbols”. However, if “16 round probability variation big hit” is performed for the second time, the second time Through the change notice effect (FIGS. 53 and 54), the total number of “16 round probability variation symbols” further increases (relatively the total number of “4 round probability variation symbols” further decreases) after the big hit. Then, when the second “16 rounds probable big hit game” is completed, a variable display effect and a stop display effect are performed using the changed effect symbol array. Thereby, it is possible to give the player an impression (profit) as if the ratio (selection ratio) of “16 rounds probable big hit” is higher than before.

[Design after the change]
Although not shown in particular, during the “fireworks mode” to be shifted thereafter, a variable display effect and a stop display effect are performed in the display mode shown in the change example (2) of the effect symbol arrangement in FIG. . Specifically, among the numbers “1” to “9”, the four numbers “1”, “3”, “5”, “7” are “16 rounds probable variation”. Is done. As a result, by making the player visually recognize the display pattern of the effect design after the change (second time), the expectation and uplifting feeling that “the ratio of 16 rounds probable big hits has become higher than before” Can be held.

[When the condition of (3) is satisfied]
FIG. 56 and FIG. 57 are a series of partially showing examples of the big-bodied performances executed during the big hit game when the “fireworks mode” is completed without falling through and corresponds to the sixth “16 round probability variable big hit” FIG. In this case, when the condition (3) is satisfied, a change notice effect related to further changing the aspect of the effect symbol from the initial setting during the big hit game is executed.

[At the start of the sixth round of 16 rounds]
56 (A): When the first round of the sixth round of 16-round probability change big hit game is started without completing the “fireworks mode”, the character information “ROUND1” is also displayed in the screen. In addition, a unique effect image (the previous female character) is displayed during the big hit game. In addition, an effect symbol corresponding to the current winning symbol (here, the changed number “1”) is displayed at the lower right corner of the screen. In the upper right corner position of the screen, items that have been acquired so far (heart-shaped object, diamond) are displayed.

[Start of third change notice effect]
In FIG. 56 (B): Thereafter, the big hit game proceeds smoothly and, for example, when the game shifts to the eighth round, the third change notice effect is started. In this example as well, for example, an image of a treasure box is displayed on the screen, and character information such as “treasure challenge” is also displayed at the upper position. Thereby, it can be made to recognize to a player that "the effect which opens a treasure box is performed from now on" similarly to the 1st-2nd time.

[During the third change notice production]
56 (C): When the next nine rounds are entered, the previous treasure chest is opened, and an effect in which some item appears from the inside is performed. In the third example, a gold medal emerges from the treasure chest and is shining. In addition, character information “GET! (Acquired)” is displayed in the display screen. As a result, it is possible to remind the player that “an item has been acquired in the production”.

[The end of the third change notice]
In FIG. 57 (D): Next, when the 10th round is reached, a powerful ray is emitted from the item acquired earlier (here, gold medal), and this time, the state of the production symbol representing the number “9” is initial. An effect that changes from the setting is performed. That is, in the initial setting (FIG. 31), the number “9” was displayed in red, but here it is changed to a golden display mode (specific mode), and a decoration image of “HYPER” is added. ing. The female character also changes its hair color and pupil color from dark to light, and is the same system as the female characters of the numbers “3” and “7” and the changed “5” and “1”. Here, since the number “9” itself does not change, the distinctiveness as the production symbol is maintained.

[16 rounds]
(E) in FIG. 57: After this, the big hit game proceeds smoothly and shifts to the final 16 rounds. In addition, character information corresponding to the number of rounds of “ROUND16” is displayed on the screen, and a unique effect image is displayed during the big hit game. At this time, in the upper right corner of the screen, the items (gold medal) acquired in the previous 9th round, together with the items (heart-shaped object, diamond) acquired in the first and second change notice effects, respectively. Are displayed together. In the lower right corner position of the screen, the above-mentioned effect symbol (number “1”) as the “left eye” is continuously displayed.

[At the end of a major role]
In FIG. 57 (F): Similarly, at the timing when the big hit game ends (during end processing), the big end effect of the content teaching the internal state to be transferred thereafter is executed. In the illustrated example, character information “Continue Fireworks Mode!” Is displayed on the screen. By executing such a big game end effect, it is possible to teach the player that the “high-probability state” and the “time-shortening state” “fireworks mode” will continue after the big hit game ends.

[Examples of changes in production design arrangement (3)]
FIG. 58 is a diagram showing a change example (3) of the effect symbol arrangement after the end of the sixth 16-round probability variation big hit game. Here, (A) in FIG. 58 shows the aspect of the effect symbol arrangement in the initial setting, and (B) in FIG. 58 shows the aspect of the effect symbol arrangement after the first change from the initial setting. (C) shows the aspect of the effect symbol arrangement after the second change from the initial setting, and (D) in FIG. 58 shows the aspect of the effect symbol arrangement after the third change from the initial setting.

  In other words, as indicated by the one-dot chain line in the figure, after the initial setting (when the power is turned on), after the first change and after the second change, the effect design representing the number “9” is “4 rounds probable change”. Although it was a mode (non-specific mode) corresponding to “symbol”, after the sixth “16-round probable big hit game” is finished, even the effect symbol representing the number “9” remaining in odd numbers is “ It has changed to a mode (specific mode) corresponding to “16-round probability variable design”. Here again, such a change in the aspect is performed for all the left, middle, and right effect symbol arrays.

  Therefore, when “16 rounds probable big hit” is made for the sixth time, the total number of “16 round probable symbols” is further increased after the big win is over (relatively “ The total number of “4-round probability variable symbols” will be further reduced). Then, when the third “16 rounds probable big hit game” is completed, the variable display effect and the stop display effect are performed using the changed effect symbol array. Thereby, it is possible to give the player an impression (profit) as if the ratio (selection ratio) of “16 rounds probable big hit” is higher than before.

[Design after the change]
Although not particularly shown here, during the “fireworks mode” to which the transition is made later, the change display effect and the stop display effect are displayed in the display mode shown in the change example (3) of the effect symbol arrangement in FIG. Done. Specifically, among the numbers “1” to “9”, all odd numbers (5) of the numbers “1”, “3”, “5”, “7”, “9” are “16 rounds”. The production is performed in a state of “probable variation”. As a result, the display pattern of the effect symbol after the change (third time) is occasionally touched to make the player visually recognize that the ratio of probable big hits for 16 rounds has become higher than before. It can give you a sense of expectation and exhilaration.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, before the “fireworks mode” ends (within 70 variations), the “16 round probability variation symbol” count is repeated, so that “ The ratio of “16 round symbols” increases, and the ratio of “4 round symbols” decreases relatively. This gives the player an impression as if the 16-round symbol is easier to hit, so that the game in “Fireworks Mode (“ High Probability State ”and“ Time Reduction State ”)” Aggressiveness and uplifting feeling can be improved. In addition, the player who has repeatedly hit the jackpot is given a motivation such as “Let's continue the big hit for 16 rounds after this”, and the decline in the motivation for the game can be suppressed.

  Next, an example of a control method for specifically realizing the above effects will be described. The above-mentioned variable display effects (including changes in the effect symbol arrangement), reach effects, pre-reach notice effects, memorized number display effects, big duty effects (including change notice effects), special reach effects, etc. It is controlled through the control process.

[Production control processing]
FIG. 59 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the effect control process executed by the effect control CPU 126. This effect control process is executed, for example, in a timer interrupt process (interrupt management process) separately from a reset start (main) process (not shown). The effect control CPU 126 generates a timer interrupt at a predetermined interrupt cycle (for example, a period of several tens of μs to several ms) during execution of the reset start process, and executes the timer interrupt process.

  The effect control process includes command reception process (step S400), working memory effect management process (step S401), effect symbol management process (step S402), display output process (step S404), lamp driving process (step S406), and acoustic driving. This includes a subroutine group of processing (step S408), effect random number update processing (step S410), and other processing (step S412). Hereinafter, the basic flow of the effect control process will be described along each process.

  Step S400: In the command receiving process, the effect control CPU 126 receives an effect command transmitted from the main control CPU 72. The effect control CPU 126 analyzes the received commands and stores them in the command buffer area of the RAM 130 according to type. The command for the effect transmitted from the main control CPU 72 includes, for example, a special figure destination determination effect command, a (special symbol) effect command when the operating memory number increases, a (special symbol) effect command when the operating memory number decreases, a start port Winning sound control command, demonstration effect command, lottery result command, variation pattern command, variation start command, stop symbol command, symbol stop command, state designation command, round number command, launch position designation command, error notification command, jackpot end There are an effect command, a count cut counter value command, a change pattern destination determination command, a stop display time end command, and the like.

  Step S401: In the operation memory effect management process, the effect control CPU 126 controls the execution of the above-described stored number display effect and the pre-reading notice effect using the markers M1 and M2.

  Step S402: In the effect symbol management process, the effect control CPU 126 controls the contents of the variable display effect and the stop display effect using the effect symbols, and controls the effect contents during the opening / closing operation of the variable winning device 30. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 initially sets the display mode of the effect symbols (material setting means) or changes the initial setting (material setting changing means). In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects effect patterns of various notice effects (notice effect before reach occurrence, notice effect after reach, etc.). The contents of the effect symbol management process will be further described later with reference to another drawing.

  Step S404: In the display output process, the effect control CPU 126 controls the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146) with basic control information of the effect contents (for example, the number of working memories of each of the first special symbol and the second special symbol). , An operation memory effect pattern number, a prefetch notice effect pattern number, a change effect pattern number, a change notice effect number, a background pattern number, etc.). Thereby, the effect display control device 144 (the display control CPU 146 and the VDP 152) controls the display operation by the liquid crystal display 42 based on the instructed effect content (effect executing means).

  Step S406: In the lamp driving process, the effect control CPU 126 outputs a control signal to the lamp driving circuit 132. In response to this, the lamp driving circuit 132 drives (turns on or off, blinks, changes in luminance gradation, etc.) the various lamps 46 to 52 and the panel lamp 53 based on the control signal.

  Step S408: In the next sound drive process, the effect control CPU 126 sends the effect contents (for example, BGM, sound data, etc. during the variable display effect, during the reach effect, during the mode transition effect, during the jackpot effect) to the sound drive circuit 134. Instruct. Thereby, the sound according to the production content is output from the speakers 54, 55, and 56.

  Step S410: In the effect random number update process, the effect control CPU 126 updates various effect random numbers in the counter area of the RAM 130. The effect random number includes, for example, a random number used for selecting a notice and a random number used for a normal background change lottery (effect lottery).

  Step S412: In other processing, for example, the effect control CPU 126 outputs a control signal to the driving IC of the movable body 40f. The movable body 40f operates using the movable body solenoid 57 as a drive source, and produces an effect in synchronization with the display of the image by the liquid crystal display 42 or independently.

  Through the above-described effect control process, the effect control CPU 126 can comprehensively control the effect contents in the pachinko machine 1. Next, the contents of the effect symbol management process executed in the effect control process will be described.

[Direction design management processing]
FIG. 60 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the effect symbol management process. The effect symbol management process includes an execution selection process (step S500), an effect symbol mode management process (step S501), an effect symbol variation pre-processing (step S502), an effect symbol variation process (step S504), and an effect symbol stop display process. This is a configuration including a subroutine group of (Step S506) and variable winning device operating process (Step S508). Hereinafter, the basic flow of the effect symbol management process will be described along each process.

  Step S500: In the execution selection process, the effect control CPU 126 selects the jump destination of the process to be executed next (any one of steps S501 to S508). For example, the effect control CPU 126 sets the program address of the process to be executed next as the jump destination address, and sets the end of the effect symbol management process in the “jump table” as the return address. Which process is selected as the next jump destination depends on the progress of the processes performed so far. For example, in the situation where the variable display effect is not yet started and the effect symbol display mode is not set, the effect control CPU 126 performs the effect symbol mode management process as the next jump destination (step S501). After that, effect symbol variation pre-processing (step S502) is selected. On the other hand, if the effect symbol variation pre-processing has already been completed, the effect control CPU 126 selects the effect symbol variation processing (step S504) as the next jump destination, and if the effect symbol variation in-process has been completed, As a jump destination, the effect symbol stop display in-progress process (step S506) is selected. Further, the variable winning device operating process (step S508) is selected as a jump destination only when the variable winning device management process (step S5000 in FIG. 14) is selected in the main control CPU 72. In this case, steps S501 to S506 are not executed.

  Step S501: In the effect symbol mode management process, the effect control CPU 126 performs setting of the effect symbol display mode (initial setting and its change). In other words, the effect control CPU 126 sets the effect symbol array in accordance with the progress of the game up to now. Note that specific processing contents will be described later using another flowchart.

  Step S502: In the effect symbol variation pre-processing, the effect control CPU 126 performs an operation of preparing conditions for starting the variable display effect using the effect symbol. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects the content of the reach effect according to various conditions (lottery result, winning type, variation pattern, etc.), or the effect pattern for the notice effect (the reach other than the pre-reading notice effect pattern). Pre-occurrence notice pattern, reach occurrence notice pattern, etc.). In addition, the production control CPU 126 also performs demonstration production control when the pachinko machine 1 is in a so-called customer waiting state. The specific processing content will be described later using another flowchart.

  Step S504: In the effect symbol changing process, the effect control CPU 126 generates control information instructing the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146) as necessary. For example, when performing an effect using the effect switching button 45 during execution of the variable display effect using the effect symbol, the effect control CPU 126 monitors whether or not the player has operated the effect button, and an effect corresponding to the result is displayed. The control information on the contents (button effect) is instructed to the display control CPU 146. In addition, the effect control CPU 126 controls the lighting state related to the repetitive strike meter of the equal effect in the effect symbol changing process.

  Step S506: In the effect symbol stop display processing, the effect control CPU 126 controls the contents of the stop display effect using the effect symbols and moving images in a manner corresponding to the result of the internal lottery. That is, the effect control CPU 126 instructs the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146) to end the variable display effect and execute the stop display effect. In response to this, the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146) ends the variable display effect that has been actually executed in the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42, and executes the stop display effect. Thereby, the stop display effect is executed substantially in synchronization with the stop display of the special symbol, and the result of the internal lottery can be effectively taught (disclosure, notification, notification, etc.) to the player (design effect execution). means). However, in the present embodiment, at the time of a small hit, the stop display effect is executed in a manner similar to or approximated to a loss.

  Step S508: In the variable winning device operation process, the effect control CPU 126 controls the contents of the effect during the small hit or the big hit. In this processing, the effect control CPU 126 selects the contents of the prominent effect according to various conditions (for example, winning type). For example, in the case of 16 round big hits, the effect control CPU 126 selects a 16-round big role effect pattern as the effect contents to be displayed on the liquid crystal display 42, and instructs this to the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146). . As a result, the image of the prominent effect is displayed on the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42, and the effect contents change as the round progresses.

[Direction pattern management process]
FIG. 61 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of the effect symbol mode management process. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along the example of a procedure.

Step S540: The effect control CPU 126 acquires the current effect symbol pattern management status. Here, the “effect design mode management status” is an internal information value set (updated) on the effect control by the effect control CPU 126. The production symbol mode management status is set or updated as follows according to the progress of the game up to now.
(1) In the “low probability state” and the “non-time shortened state”, the effect symbol form management status is initially set to “00H”.
(2) When the first “16 round probability variation big hit” occurs from the “non-time shortened state”, the effect symbol form management status is updated to “01H”.
(3) If the fourth “16 rounds probable big hit” occurs, including the first time, without the “high-probability state” and “time reduction state” “fireworks mode” being completed, the production symbol mode management status is “ 02H ".
(4) If the sixth “16 round probable big hit”, including the first, occurs without the “high probability state” and “time reduction state” “fireworks mode” being completed, the production symbol mode management status is “ 03H ".

  Since such setting or updating of the effect symbol mode management status is performed in another effect symbol mode management status update process, only the result is given here, and specific setting or updating will be described later. In any case, when the current effect symbol pattern management status is acquired, the effect control CPU 126 next executes step S545.

  Step S545: The effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the current game progress is in the “fireworks mode”. As mentioned above, “Fireworks mode” is transferred after the big game when it falls under “4 rounds probable big hit”, “16 rounds probable big hit” or “2 rounds probable big hit (limited to winning in time-reduced state)” Mode. If the progress of the game is not “fireworks mode” (No), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S550.

  Step S550: In this case, the effect control CPU 126 resets the effect symbol pattern management status (= 00H). Thereby, even if the production symbol mode management status is updated to another value from the initial setting, the setting is initialized here. Further, when the effect symbol pattern management status is the initial setting at the time of power-on or the like, the effect control CPU 126 maintains the initial setting as a result.

  Step S552: The production control CPU 126 confirms the production symbol mode management status, and if the value is “00H” (Yes), executes the step S554.

[Initial setting]
Step S554: In this case, the effect control CPU 126 generates an effect symbol form in the initial state. Specifically, an effect symbol array is generated (material setting means) with the display pattern of the effect symbols as an initial setting (FIG. 31). As a result, among the numbers “1” to “9”, the production symbols representing “3” and “7” correspond to “16 round probability variation symbols” by default, and all the others are “4 round probability variation symbols”. It will be compatible. In the subsequent effect symbol management process (step S402 in FIG. 59), an effect pattern is selected using the effect symbol array generated here.

  On the other hand, for example, when the first “16 rounds probable big hit” occurs after the game is started from the normal state, the effect symbol form management status is updated to “01H” as described above. In this case, since the effect symbol pattern management status is not “00H” (step S552: No), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S556.

  Step S556: When it is confirmed that the current effect symbol pattern management status is “01H” (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S558.

[At first change]
Step S558: In this case, the effect control CPU 126 generates an effect symbol pattern after the first hyper bonus. Specifically, an effect symbol array ((B) in FIG. 36) in which the effect symbol display mode is changed from the initial setting to the first time is generated (material setting changing means). As a result, among the numbers “1” to “9”, in addition to “3” and “7”, the effect symbol representing the number “5” changes to “16 round probability variation symbol”. Other than that, it corresponds to the “4-round probability variation pattern”. In the subsequent effect symbol management process (step S402 in FIG. 59), an effect pattern is selected using the effect symbol array generated here.

  Thereafter, when the fourth “16 round probability variation big hit” occurs without completing the “fireworks mode”, the effect symbol form management status is updated to “02H” as described above. In this case, since the effect symbol pattern management status does not correspond to either “00H” or “01H” (step S552 and step S556: No), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S560.

  Step S560: When it is confirmed that the current effect symbol pattern management status is “02H” (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S562.

[At the second change]
Step S562: In this case, the effect control CPU 126 generates an effect symbol form after the fourth hyper bonus. Specifically, an effect symbol array ((C) in FIG. 55) in which the effect symbol display mode is changed for the second time from the initial setting is generated (material setting changing means). As a result, among the numbers “1” to “9”, in addition to “3”, “7”, “5”, the production symbol representing the number “1” is further changed to “16 round probability variation”. . Other than that, it corresponds to the “4-round probability variation pattern”. In the subsequent effect symbol management process (step S402 in FIG. 59), an effect pattern is selected using the effect symbol array generated here.

  After that, when the sixth “16 rounds probable big hit” occurs without completing the “fireworks mode”, the production symbol form management status is updated to “03H” as described above. In this case, since the effect symbol pattern management status does not correspond to any of “00H”, “01H”, or “02H” (step S552, step S556, and step S560: No), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S564.

[3rd change]
Step S564: In this case, the effect control CPU 126 generates an effect symbol form after the sixth hyper bonus. Specifically, an effect symbol arrangement ((D) in FIG. 58) in which the display pattern of the effect symbols is changed for the third time from the initial setting is generated (material setting changing means). As a result, among the numbers “1” to “9”, all the production symbols representing the odd numbers “1”, “3”, “7”, “5”, “9” are “16-round probability variation symbols”. Become. At this time, the production symbols representing the even numbers “2”, “4”, “6”, “8” correspond to “4-round probability variation symbols”, but the total number is greatly reduced from the initial setting. Yes (7 → 4). In the subsequent effect symbol management process (step S402 in FIG. 59), an effect pattern is selected using the effect symbol array generated here.

[7th hyper bonus]
In the present embodiment, when the effect symbol mode management status is updated to “03H” after the sixth hyper bonus, even if “16 rounds probable big hit” occurs thereafter, the effect symbol mode management status is not particularly updated. Therefore, even if the progress of the game is “after the 7th hyper bonus”, “after the 8th hyper bonus”, etc., the effect design mode management status remains “03H”, so the effect control CPU 126 executes step S564. This is executed, and the effect design pattern after the sixth hyper bonus is generated.

  When any one of the above steps S554, S558, S562, and S564 is executed, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect symbol management process (end address).

[Preliminary design change processing]
Next, FIG. 62 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the above-described effect symbol variation pre-processing. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along the example of a procedure.

  Step S600: The effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not a demonstration effect command is received from the main control CPU 72. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and confirms whether or not a demonstration effect command is stored. As a result, when it is confirmed that the command for demonstration effect is stored (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S602.

  Step S602: The effect control CPU 126 executes a demo selection process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects a demonstration effect pattern. The demonstration effect pattern defines the contents of the effect indicating that the pachinko machine 1 is in a so-called customer waiting state.

  When the above procedure is completed, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the last address of the effect symbol management process. Then, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect control process as it is, and controls the contents of the demonstration effect based on the demonstration effect pattern in the subsequent display output process (step S404 in FIG. 59) and lamp driving process (step S406 in FIG. 59). To do.

  On the other hand, if it is confirmed in step S600 that the demonstration effect command is not stored (No), the effect control CPU 126 next executes step S604.

  Step S604: The effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the current fluctuation is out of place (non-winning). Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and confirms whether or not a lottery result command at the time of non-winning is stored. As a result, when it is confirmed that the lottery result command at the time of non-winning is saved (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S612. On the other hand, when it is confirmed that the lottery result command at the time of non-winning is not saved (No), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S606. Note that whether or not the current variation is off can be confirmed based on a variation pattern command or a stop symbol command in addition to the lottery result command. In other words, if the current variation pattern command corresponds to the outlier normal variation or outlier reach variation, it can be determined that the current variation is outlier. Alternatively, if the current stop symbol command specifies a non-winning symbol, it can be determined that the current variation is out of sync.

  Step S606: If the lottery result command is other than non-winning (missing) (step S604: No), the effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the current fluctuation is a big hit. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and confirms whether or not the lottery result command at the time of the big hit is stored. As a result, when it is confirmed that the lottery result command at the time of big hit is stored (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S610. On the contrary, when it is confirmed that the lottery result command at the time of big hit is not stored (No), since only the lottery result command at the time of small hit is left, in this case, the effect control CPU 126 executes step S608. Whether or not the current variation is a big hit can also be confirmed based on a variation pattern command or a stop symbol command. That is, if the current variation pattern command corresponds to the big hit variation, it can be determined that the current variation is a big hit. If the current stop symbol command corresponds to the jackpot symbol, it can be determined that the current variation is a jackpot.

  Step S608: The effect control CPU 126 executes a small hit hour variation effect pattern selection process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 determines the effect pattern number at that time based on the variation pattern command received from the main control CPU 72 (for example, “C0H00H” to “D0H7FH”). The effect pattern number is prepared in advance corresponding to the variation pattern command, and the effect control CPU 126 can select an effect pattern number corresponding to the variation pattern command at that time by referring to an effect pattern selection table (not shown). it can. The production pattern numbers may be prepared in pairs with the variation pattern commands, or a plurality of production pattern numbers may be prepared for one variation pattern command.

  When the effect pattern number is selected, the effect control CPU 126 refers to an effect table (not shown), changes the effect schedule (change time, reach type, and reach occurrence timing) corresponding to the change effect pattern number at that time, and stops. The display mode and the like are determined. Note that the types of effect symbols determined here correspond to the “combination of symbols at the time of a small hit”.

  The above procedure corresponds to the case of “small hit”, but in the case of hitting the big hit, the effect control CPU 126 confirms that it is “big hit” in step S606 (Yes). In this case, the effect control CPU 126 executes step S610.

  Step S610: The effect control CPU 126 executes a big hit hour fluctuation effect pattern selection process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 determines the effect pattern number at that time based on the variation pattern command (for example, “E0H00H” to “F0H7FH”) received from the main control CPU 72. Note that, in the big hit effect pattern selection process, the process may be further branched for each big hit stop symbol.

  In the case of non-winning, the following procedure is executed. In other words, when the effect control CPU 126 confirms that there is a shift in step S604 (Yes), it next executes step S612.

  Step S612: The effect control CPU 126 executes a deviation effect pattern selection process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 determines the effect pattern number at the time of deviation based on the variation pattern command (for example, “A0H00H” to “A6H7FH”) received from the main control CPU 72. The effect pattern numbers at the time of losing are classified into “ordinary deviation fluctuation”, “short-time deviation fluctuation”, “outlier reach fluctuation”, and the like, and a fine reach fluctuation pattern is defined in “outlier reach fluctuation”. Note that which effect pattern number is selected by the effect control CPU 126 is determined by the variation pattern command transmitted from the main control CPU 72.

  When the effect pattern number at the time of detachment is selected, the effect control CPU 126 refers to an effect table (not shown), and the effect symbol change schedule corresponding to the change effect pattern number at that time (change time, presence / absence of reach, occurrence of reach) , Reach type and reach occurrence timing) and stop display mode (for example, “7”-“2”-“4”, etc.).

  When any one of the above steps S608, S610, and S612 is executed, the effect control CPU 126 next executes step S614.

  Step S614: The effect control CPU 126 executes a notice selection process (notice effect executing means). In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects the content of the notice effect to be executed during the current variable display effect by lottery. The content of the notice effect is determined based on, for example, the result of internal lottery (winning or non-winning) and the current internal state (normal state, high probability state, time reduction state). As described above, the notice effect is for notifying the player of the possibility that the reach state will occur during the variable display effect, or for notifying that there is a possibility that it will eventually be a big hit. Therefore, the selection ratio of the notice effect is set to be low at the time of non-winning, but the selection ratio of the notice effect is set to be relatively high to increase the player's expectation at the time of winning.

  Step S616: The effect control CPU 126 executes a mode effect management process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 executes a process of selecting a background image corresponding to the stay mode. For example, when the stay mode is “normal mode (low probability non-time shortened state)”, the production control CPU 126 selects a background image (for example, the background image shown in FIG. 30B) where the female character is sitting on the chaise longue. Execute the process. When the stay mode is “fireworks mode (high probability time shortening state)”, the effect control CPU 126 executes a process of selecting a background image (for example, the background image shown in FIG. 37A) with fireworks as a motif. To do. Here, only “normal mode” and “fireworks mode” are given as an example, but in addition to these, various presentation modes are prepared in this embodiment, and the presentation control CPU 126 responds to each stay mode. To execute the selection process.

  When the above procedure is completed, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect symbol management process (end address). Thereby, in the subsequent effect symbol variation processing (step S504 in FIG. 60), the variation display effect and the stop display effect are executed based on the actually selected variation effect pattern (symbol effect executing means), A notice effect is executed based on various notice effect patterns. In addition, various stay mode effects are executed based on the background (stay) mode pattern selected here.

[Big hit variation pattern selection process]
FIG. 63 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the big hit hour variation effect pattern selection process. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along the example of a procedure.

  Step S700: The effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not a variation pattern corresponding to 16 rounds probable big hit is selected as the current variation pattern. Specifically, the effect control CPU accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and confirms the variation pattern command, thereby confirming whether or not the variation pattern corresponding to the 16 round probability variation big hit has been selected.

  As a result, when it is confirmed that the variation pattern corresponding to the 16 round probability variation big hit is selected as the current variation pattern (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S702, and the 16 round probability variation big hit is obtained as the current variation pattern. When it cannot be confirmed that the variation pattern corresponding to is selected (No), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S716. Hereinafter, each case will be described.

[When 16 round probability variation hit pattern is selected]
Step S702: In this case, the effect control CPU confirms whether or not the current effect symbol pattern management status is “00H”. As described above, if the aspect of the effect symbol array is still the initial setting, the effect symbol state management status is initially set to “00H” (Yes), so the effect control CPU next executes step S704. .

[Selection example at initial setting]
Step S704: In this case, the effect control CPU selects the 16 round big hit variation effect pattern in the initial state. Here, the “16 round big hit variation effect pattern in the initial state” has the following characteristics.
(1) The change display effect and the stop display effect are performed in a state where the effect symbol arrangement is set to the initial setting (FIG. 31).
(2) A big hit reach effect (FIG. 32) other than the special reach effect (FIGS. 47 to 52, etc.) is selected.
(3) As for the symbols (tempered symbols) that are in the reach state, not only the numbers “3” and “7” but also a ratio other than these is selected.
(4) Therefore, the selection ratio of the variable effect pattern that is promoted to “16 round probability variation symbol” in the re-lottery effect (FIG. 33) is the maximum.

  The above is an example of the procedure when the current effect symbol mode management status is “00H”, but when the effect symbol mode management status is updated to “01H or higher”, the procedure example is as follows.

[Selection example after the first hyper bonus]
Step S702: When the effect control CPU confirms that the current effect symbol pattern management status is not “00H” (No), it next executes step S706.
Step S706: The effect control CPU checks whether or not the current effect symbol pattern management status is “01H”. As described above, if the progress status of the game is after the first hyper bonus, the effect symbol mode management status has been updated to “01H” (Yes), so the effect control CPU next executes step S708.

Step S708: In this case, the effect control CPU selects a 16-round big hit variation effect pattern after the first hyper bonus. Here, the “16 round big hit variation effect pattern after the first hyper bonus” has the following characteristics.
(1) The variable display effect and the stop display effect are performed in the state of the effect symbol array ((B) in FIG. 36) after the first change from the initial setting.
(2) Special reach effects (FIGS. 47 to 52, etc.) are selected as reach effects.
(3) For the symbols (tempeed symbols) that reach the reach state, the percentages of the numbers “3”, “7”, “5” are increased to some extent, and the proportions other than these are moderate (maximum) Lower).
(4) Therefore, the selection ratio of the variable effect pattern promoted to “16 round probability variation symbol” in the re-lottery effect (FIG. 33) is medium.

[Selection example after 4th Hyper Bonus]
After this, when proceeding further to the fourth hyper bonus, the following procedure example is obtained.
Step S702: When the effect control CPU confirms that the current effect symbol pattern management status is not “00H” (No), it next executes step S706.
Step S706: Furthermore, when the effect control CPU confirms that the current effect symbol pattern management status is not “01H” (No), it next executes step S710.
Step S710: The effect control CPU confirms whether or not the current effect symbol pattern management status is “02H”. As described above, if the progress of the game is after the fourth hyper bonus, the effect symbol form management status has been updated to “02H” (Yes), so the effect control CPU next executes step S712.

Step S712: In this case, the effect control CPU selects a 16-round big hit variation effect pattern after the fourth hyper bonus. Here, the “16th round big hit variation effect pattern after the fourth hyper bonus” has the following characteristics.
(1) The variable display effect and the stop display effect are performed in the state of the effect symbol array ((C) in FIG. 55) after the second change from the initial setting.
(2) Special reach effects (FIGS. 47 to 52, etc.) are selected as reach effects.
(3) The ratio of the numbers “3”, “7”, “5”, and “1” is increased as a whole for symbols (tempered symbols) in a reach state, and other than these are selected. The ratio is small (lower than medium).
(4) Therefore, the selection ratio of the variation effect pattern that is promoted to “16 round probability variation symbol” in the re-lottery effect (FIG. 33) is small.

[Selection example after 6th hyper bonus]
Then, when the subsequent game progresses to the sixth time after the hyper bonus, the effect symbol form management status is updated to “03H” as described above, and thus the following procedure example is obtained.
Step S702: When the effect control CPU confirms that the current effect symbol pattern management status is not “00H” (No), it next executes step S706.
Step S706: Furthermore, when the effect control CPU confirms that the current effect symbol pattern management status is not “01H” (No), it next executes step S710.
Step S710: When the effect control CPU confirms that the current effect symbol pattern management status is not “02H” (No), it next executes step S714.

Step S714: In this case, the effect control CPU selects a 16-round big hit variation effect pattern after the sixth hyper bonus. Here, the “16 round big hit variation effect pattern after the sixth hyper bonus” has the following characteristics.
(1) The variable display effect and the stop display effect are performed in the state of the effect symbol array ((D) in FIG. 58) after the third change from the initial setting.
(2) Special reach effects (FIGS. 47 to 52, etc.) are selected as reach effects.
(3) For the symbol (tempe symbol) that reaches the reach state, the ratio of the numbers “3”, “7”, “5”, “1”, “9” is the largest, and other than these are selected. The ratio is minimal.
(4) Therefore, the selection ratio of the variable effect pattern that is promoted to “16 round probability variation symbol” in the re-lottery effect (FIG. 33) is the smallest.

  The above is an example of the procedure when the variation pattern corresponding to the 16 round probability variation big hit is selected, but when another big hit variation pattern is selected (step S700: No), the following procedure example is obtained.

  Step S716: The effect control CPU 126 checks whether or not the change pattern corresponding to the 4-round probability change big hit is selected as the current change pattern. As a result, if the variation pattern for the 4-round probability variation jackpot is selected (Yes), the effect control CPU executes step S718, and if the variation burn for the second round probability variation jackpot is selected, that is, the effect control. The CPU executes step S720.

[4 rounds probable big hit]
Step S718: In this case, the effect control CPU selects a 4-round big hit variation effect pattern. The 4 round big hit next variation effect pattern selected here also has the following characteristics according to the progress of the game.
(1) The display pattern generated in the previous effect symbol pattern management process (FIG. 61) is applied to the effect symbol array.
(2) As the reach effect, a non-special reach effect or a special reach effect (FIG. 38, FIG. 46, etc.) is selected according to the stay mode.
(3) The symbol (Tempai symbol) that reaches the reach state is selected from those representing the “four-round probability variation symbol” in the current effect symbol array.
(4) Although a re-lottery effect (FIG. 33) may be selected, only a variable effect pattern that is not promoted to “16 round probability variation symbol” (re-lottery failure) is selected.

[2 rounds probable big hit]
Step S720: In the case of two rounds of big hit, the effect control CPU selects a two round big hit variation effect pattern. The 2 round big hit next variation effect pattern selected here has the following characteristics according to the progress of the game.
(1) The display pattern generated in the previous effect symbol pattern management process (FIG. 61) is applied to the effect symbol array.
(2) As the reach effect, a reach effect (not shown) dedicated to the two round big hit is selected.
(3) The symbol (Tempai symbol) that reaches the reach state is selected from those representing the “four-round probability variation symbol” in the current effect symbol array.
(4) In the stop display effect, not all three are arranged, and the medium effect symbol is in a special exclusive mode (for example, a “fireworks zone” or the like).

  In any case, when any of the above steps S704, S708, S712, S714, S718, S720 is executed, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect symbol variation pre-processing (FIG. 62).

[Processing when the variable winning device is activated]
FIG. 64 is a flowchart showing a configuration example of processing when the variable winning device is activated. The variable winning device operation process is a subroutine of execution selection processing (step S902), variable winning device operation pre-processing (step S904), variable winning device operation in-process (step S906), and variable winning device operation post-processing (step S908). This is a configuration including a (program module) group. Here, first, the basic flow of the variable winning device operating process will be described along each process.

  Step S902: In the execution selection process, the effect control CPU 126 selects the jump destination of the process to be executed next (any one of steps S904 to S908) from the “jump table”. For example, the effect control CPU 126 sets the program address of the process to be executed next as the jump destination address, and sets the end of the variable winning device operating process as the return destination address in the stack pointer.

  Which process is selected as the next jump destination depends on the progress of the processes performed so far. For example, if the variable winning device activation pre-processing has not yet started, the effect control CPU 126 selects the variable winning device activation pre-processing (step S904) as the next jump destination. Further, if the variable winning device operation pre-processing has already been completed, the effect control CPU 126 selects the variable winning device operating process (step S906) as the next jump destination. Furthermore, if the process during operation of the variable winning device is completed, the effect control CPU 126 selects the variable winning device operation post-processing (step S908) as the next jump destination.

  Step S904: In the variable winning device pre-operation process, the effect control CPU 126 executes a process of selecting the contents of the major role effect (including the change notice effect) executed during the big hit game. The specific processing content will be described later using another flowchart.

  Step S906: In the variable winning device operating process, the effect control CPU 126 generates control information instructing the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146) as necessary. For example, when performing an effect using the effect switch button 45 during execution of the big hit effect, the effect control CPU 126 monitors whether or not the player has operated the effect button, and the content of the effect (button effect) according to the result is monitored. The control information is instructed to the display control CPU 146.

  Step S908: In the variable winning device post-operation process, the effect control CPU 126 executes an effect of transmitting the transfer destination mode to the player during the end time of the variable winning device. For example, the effect control CPU 126 executes a fireworks mode entry effect or executes a firework mode continuation effect depending on whether or not there is a winning symbol or a time shortening state.

[Pre-processing of variable winning device operation]
FIG. 65 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure of the variable prize device pre-operation process. As described above, the variable winning device pre-operation processing is executed before the big hit game is started. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along the example of a procedure.

  Step S800: First, the effect control CPU obtains the current effect symbol pattern management status before starting the big hit game.

  Step S802: Next, the effect control CPU checks whether or not the current big hit is “16 round big hit”. Specifically, the effect control CPU accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130, and if the winning symbol command of “16 rounds big hit” is stored (Yes), then executes step S804.

Step S804: In this case, the effect control CPU executes an effect symbol pattern management status update process. In this process, the effect control CPU updates the effect symbol pattern management status according to the progress of the game so far. Specifically, the following processing is performed.
(1) If the current production symbol mode management status is “00H”, it corresponds to the first “16 rounds probable big hit” from “non-time shortened state”, so the production symbol mode management status is updated to “01H”. To do.
(2) If the current effect symbol pattern management status is “01H”, the value of the “count counter” is incremented by one. As a result, when the value of the “hit counter” reaches “3”, since it corresponds to the fourth “16 round probability variation big hit”, the production symbol form management status is updated to “02H”. If the value of the “count counter” has not reached “3”, no update is performed here. The “hit counter” is set to “0” as the initial value when the production symbol mode management status is updated to “01H”, and is incremented every time “16 rounds probable big hit” occurs.
(3) If the current effect symbol pattern management status is “02H”, the value of “count counter” is similarly incremented by one. As a result, when the value of the “hit counter” reaches “5”, the production symbol mode management status is updated to “03H” because it corresponds to the sixth “16 round probability variation big hit”. If the value of the “count counter” has not reached “5”, no update is performed here. The “hit counter” is initialized when the production symbol mode management status is reset to “00H”.

  In any case, when the above updates (1) to (3) are performed, in the effect symbol form management process (FIG. 61) executed after the end of the main character, the effect symbols are managed based on the updated effect symbol form management status. An arrangement is configured (material setting changing means).

  Step S806: When returning from the effect symbol pattern management status update process, the effect control CPU confirms whether or not the effect symbol pattern management status has been updated. When it corresponds to any of the above (1) to (3) and the effect symbol pattern management status is updated (Yes), the effect control CPU executes step S808.

Step S808: In this case, the effect control CPU executes an effect pattern selection process for a big role at the time of updating the effect symbol form management status. Specifically, an effect pattern in which a change notice effect due to the “treasure challenge” is generated in a specific round (8th to 10th rounds) of a major player is selected. Further, here, the following selection is performed depending on the production symbol mode management status.
(1) When the effect symbol pattern management status is updated from “00H” to “01H”, the main character effect pattern including the first change notice effect (FIGS. 34 and 35) is selected.
(2) When the effect symbol pattern management status is updated from “01H” to “02H”, the main character effect pattern including the second change notice effect (FIGS. 53 and 54) is selected.
(3) When the effect symbol form management status is updated from “02H” to “03H”, the major effect effect pattern including the third change notice effect (FIGS. 56 and 57) is selected.

  On the other hand, when the effect symbol form management status is not updated in the current 16 round big hit (step S806: No), the effect control CPU executes step S810.

  Step S810: In this case, the effect control CPU executes a normal 16-round big role effect pattern selection process. Specifically, the “Treasure Challenge” effect is performed in specific rounds (8th to 10th rounds), but an effect other than items (such as “?” Mark) appears from the treasure box. Select a pattern.

  The above is an example of the procedure for a big hit of 16 rounds, but the following example of the procedure is for a big hit of 4 rounds or a big hit of 2 rounds.

  Step S802: If the winning symbol command of “16 rounds big hit” is not stored (No), the effect control CPU executes step S812.

[4 rounds big hit]
Step S812: Next, when the effect control CPU confirms that the winning symbol command of “4 rounds big hit” is stored (Yes), it next executes step S813.

Step S813: In this case, the effect control CPU executes effect symbol pattern management status update processing. In the present embodiment, any of the following patterns can be adopted as the contents of the production symbol mode management status update process.
(1) A pattern that does not affect the effect symbol arrangement by the 4 round big hit. In this pattern, after changing the effect symbol arrangement from the initial setting by 16 round big hits, even if 4 round big hits, the effect symbol arrangement is not affected.
(2) Unlike the above (1), a pattern that influences the 4-round jackpot on the effect symbol arrangement. In this pattern, after changing the effect symbol arrangement from the initial setting by 16 rounds of big hit, if the big hit is 4 rounds, it affects the effect symbol arrangement.
The patterns (1) and (2) can be arbitrarily selected and changed by the manufacturer of the pachinko machine 1 or the game hall manager, for example. Hereinafter, it demonstrates according to a pattern.

[Patterns that do not affect the design pattern]
When the pattern (1) is adopted, the effect control CPU 126 does not particularly update the effect symbol mode management status in the effect symbol mode management status update process, and maintains the current state.

[Patterns that do not affect the design pattern]
On the other hand, when the pattern (2) is employed, the effect control CPU 126 performs the following update (material change canceling means) in the effect symbol pattern management status update process.
(1) If the current effect symbol pattern management status is “01H”, it is updated (initialized) to “00H”. In addition, the value of the “count counter” is initialized to “0” regardless of whether it has been incremented so far. As a result, even if the effect symbol form management status is updated to “01H” by the first round 16 big hit, the update is canceled.
(2) If the current effect symbol pattern management status is “02H”, it is updated to “01H”. At the same time, the “counting counter” is initialized to “0”. As a result, even if the effect symbol form management status is updated to “02H” by the fourth round of 16 rounds, the update is canceled and returned to the previous state.
(3) If the current effect symbol pattern management status is “03H”, it is updated to “02H”. In addition, the value of the “count counter” is set to “3”. As a result, even if the effect symbol form management status is updated to “03H” by the sixth round of 16 rounds, the update is canceled and returned to the previous state.
Note that when the current effect symbol pattern management status is “00H”, the effect control CPU 126 does nothing in particular.

  In any case, when the above updates (1) to (3) are performed, in the effect symbol form management process (FIG. 61) executed after the end of the main role, the effect is based on the updated effect symbol state management status. A symbol array is constructed.

  Step S814: When returning from the effect symbol pattern management status update process, the effect control CPU 126 executes an effect pattern selection process for four rounds of big role. Specifically, a relatively short effect pattern for 4 round big actors is selected.

[At the time of 2 round big hit]
Step S812: On the other hand, when the effect control CPU confirms that the winning symbol command of “4 rounds jackpot” is not stored (No), it next executes step S816.

  Step S816: In this case, the effect control CPU 126 executes an effect pattern selection process for two rounds of big role. In this process, an effect pattern dedicated to the two-round major role is selected. Specifically, since the operation time of the variable winning device 30 at the time of the big round 2 is extremely short, there is an effect pattern suitable for such a short time (for example, an effect pattern for displaying the transition destination mode). Will be selected.

  When any of the above steps S808, S810, S814, and S816 is executed, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the end address of the variable winning device operating process (FIG. 64).

[Examples of settings that affect 4 rounds of jackpot on the design symbol layout]
FIG. 66 is a diagram illustrating an example of canceling the change of the effect symbol array when the setting for influencing the effect symbol array of 4 rounds is made.

[Before canceling changes]
FIG. 66 (A): For example, the effect symbol representing the number “5” in the effect symbol array corresponds to “16 round jackpot” due to the generation of the effect symbol pattern after the first hyper bonus. Suppose the case has been changed. In this case, the production symbol mode management status is updated to “01H”.

[After canceling changes]
In FIG. 66 (B): When the 4th round is a big hit during the “fireworks mode”, the effect symbol form management status is updated (initialized) from “01H” to “00H”. In this case, by generating the initial effect symbol form in the effect symbol pattern management process (FIG. 61), the change is canceled in the effect symbol representing the number “5” whose display mode has changed so far. To the initial settings.

  Here, an example is given in which the change in the effect symbol of the number “5” is cancelled. For example, the effect symbol pattern “4” in the effect symbol array is generated by the generation of the effect symbol form after the fourth hyper bonus. If the production symbol representing “5” and “1” has changed to the one corresponding to “16 round jackpot”, the change in the production symbol representing the number “1” changed later is canceled and the initial setting is made. Returned.

  In addition, since the effect symbol form after the sixth hyper bonus is generated, the effect symbols representing the numbers “5”, “1”, “9” in the effect symbol array correspond to “16 rounds big hit”. If it has changed to a thing, the change of the production symbol representing the last changed number “9” is canceled and returned to the initial setting.

[Other changes]
In the description so far, the production symbol mode management status is updated until “03H”, but the production symbol mode management status may be updated from “04H” to “06H”. In addition, as the total number of effect symbols corresponding to “16 rounds big hit” is increased, the conditions for increasing may be gradually tightened. For example, in the effect symbol pattern management status update process (step S804 in FIG. 65), the value interval (increase) of the “count counter” until the effect symbol pattern management status is updated next time is gradually increased. To go. As a result, the number of jackpots required to change the design pattern will increase, such as the second from the first, the third from the second, and so on. I can go.

  FIG. 67 is a diagram showing another example of changes in the effect symbol arrangement. 67A shows the effect symbol array before the change, and FIG. 67B shows the effect symbol array after the change.

  In FIG. 67 (A): It is assumed that the effect symbols representing odd numbers are all “16 round probability variation symbols” before the change. After this, the fireworks mode will not end, and if the 7th through 9th rounds of 16 rounds are hit, the production symbol mode management status will be updated to “04H” through “06H” as an additional benefit each time. I will do it. In this case, since all the design symbols representing odd numbers are “16 round probability variation symbols”, the remaining representation symbols representing even numbers are changed to the “16 round probability variation symbols” mode.

  In FIG. 67 (B): The effect symbol mode management status is updated to “04H”, so that the effect symbol representing the number “2” is changed to the mode of “16 round probability variation symbol”. Thereafter, when the production symbol mode management status is updated to “05H” and “06H”, the numbers “4” and “6” change to the “16 round probability variation symbols” mode each time. In addition, since it is necessary to leave one of the nine corresponding to the “4-round probability variation symbol”, the display mode of the effect symbol representing the number “8” does not change from the initial setting.

  As described above, when the display pattern of “16 round probability variation symbol” is changed even to the effect symbol representing the even number in addition to the odd number, the “16 round probability variation symbol” occupies most of the effect symbol array. In this case, it is possible to give the player the impression that “16 rounds probable big hit” is selected at a rate of up to 8/9 (= 88.9%), which makes it possible for all Can greatly stimulate the uplifting feeling.

[At the end of fireworks mode]
FIG. 68 is a diagram showing the initialization of the effect symbol array upon completion of the fireworks mode. 68A shows the effect symbol array before initialization, and FIG. 68B shows the effect symbol array after initialization.

  In FIG. 68 (A): For example, it is assumed that the effect symbol pattern after the sixth hyper bonus has been generated without ending the “fireworks mode”. In this case, the production symbols representing odd numbers are all “16 round probability variation symbols”.

  In FIG. 68 (B): After that, when winning is not possible during the “fireworks mode”, and the transition is made to the “normal mode” after 70 fluctuations, the numbers “5” and “ The change of the display mode of “1” and “9” is canceled and the display mode of “4-round probability variation symbol” which is the initial setting is returned. As a result, it is possible to produce an effect within an appropriate range without excessively raising the expectation for the 16-round probability variation big hit. Note that the numbers “3” and “7” are displayed in the form of “16 round probability variation” in the initial setting, and therefore, no change occurs due to initialization.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, the following advantages can be obtained.
(1) By changing the aspect of the effect symbol arrangement triggered by “16 rounds probable big hit”, it is possible to add a special privilege for the 16 round big hit separately from the 16-round prize ball payout.
(2) Because the direction of the design symbol arrangement leads to an increase in expectation for “16 rounds of big hit”, a special feeling, superiority to the surroundings, and a sense of expectation for further big hits are given to players who are still in “fireworks mode” Can be increased.
(3) Further, as the total number of “16 round probability variation symbols” increases, the expectation for the big hit can be further improved, and the gameability by continuing the “high probability state” and the “time shortening state” can be improved.

(4) If the “4-round jackpot” during the “fireworks mode” is set to affect the effect symbol arrangement, the total number of “16-round probability variation symbols” may temporarily decrease, but the subsequent “16 Since there is a chance to make a recovery again by "Round Bonus", there is no particular loss to the player. Further, even if the total number of “16-round probability variation symbols” temporarily decreases, the player can be motivated to “increase the 16-round symbols again” and maintain the aggressiveness of the game.

(5) At the beginning of the game, the surprise effect and the unexpectedness of the promotion effect are given, and there is an effect in the effect. In other words, it is more natural to show a big hit with the “16-round probabilistic pattern” whose total number has increased rather than a surprise by promotion. For this reason, in the big hit order variation effect pattern selection process (FIG. 63), while the total number of “16 round probability variation symbols” is small in the current effect symbol arrangement mode, the selection ratio of the promotion effect is set high. By setting the selection ratio of the promotion effect to a lower value as the total number of “round probability variable symbols” increases, the above effect can be maximized.

(6) Also, when the “fireworks mode” is completed, it is difficult to continue the big hit with the “high probability state” and “time reduction state” until then, so the aspect of the effect symbol arrangement is initialized as described above. By doing so, it can be prevented that excessive expectations are held forever.

  The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and can be implemented with various modifications. The aspect of the effect mentioned in one embodiment is an example, and is not limited to the aspect of the effect described above.

  In one embodiment, the aspect of the effect symbol arrangement is changed at the first, fourth, and sixth rounds of the 16 round big hits, but the aspect of the effect symbol arrangement may be changed at other big hits. In addition, the order of changing the aspect of the effect design is not limited to that described in the embodiment, and may be changed in the order of numbers “9” → “5” → “1”.

  All the display patterns (display colors, character designs, etc.) of the effect designs given in the embodiment are preferable examples, and other display modes can naturally be adopted. In addition, regarding the change notice effect during the 16-round big hit game, various effect patterns can be provided in addition to those described in the embodiment.

  The images given in other production examples are merely examples, and these can be appropriately modified. Further, the structure, board surface configuration, specific numerical values and the like of the pachinko machine 1 are preferable examples including those shown in the drawings, and it goes without saying that these can be appropriately modified.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Pachinko machine 8 Game board unit 8a Game area 20 Start gate 28 Variable start winning device 33 Normal symbol display device 33a Normal symbol operation | movement memory lamp 34 1st special symbol display device 35 2nd special symbol display device 34a 1st special symbol operation memory Lamp 35a Second special symbol operation memory lamp 38 Game state display device 42 Liquid crystal display 45 Effect switching button 70 Main control device 72 Main control CPU
74 ROM
76 RAM
124 Production control device 126 Production control CPU

Claims (6)

Lottery execution means for executing a predetermined internal lottery when a lottery opportunity occurs during a game;
About the internal lottery executed by the lottery executing means, a winning type defining means for prescribing a plurality of winning types different in the number of winning balls that can be generated per winning as the degree of value associated with winning;
A winning type determining means for determining which winning type among a plurality of winning types defined by the winning type defining means when a winning is obtained in the internal lottery executed by the lottery executing means; ,
When the internal lottery is executed by the lottery executing means, the symbol is displayed in a variable manner over a preset fluctuation time, and the result of the internal lottery and the winning type determined by the winning type determining means at the time of winning are represented. A symbol display means for stopping and displaying the symbol with,
At the time of symbol variation display and stop display by the symbol display means, at least the variation display effect corresponding to the symbol variation display is executed within the variation time, and the symbol display stop corresponding to the symbol stop display is performed Production execution means;
As the material used for the variable display demonstration and the stop display effects by the symbol demonstration execution unit, representing including the degree difference in value with the winning the relationship between any of the winning type of multiple with individual distinctiveness Material setting means for setting a specified number of effect designs having aspects;
When a specific condition is satisfied during the game, while maintaining the individual distinguishability initially set by the material setting means for the aspect of the specified number of the production symbols , the difference in the degree of value associated with winning is included. A gaming machine comprising: material setting changing means for changing a relationship with a winning type from an initial setting. In the gaming machine according to claim 1,
When the internal lottery executed by the lottery executing means is won, and the winning type determining means determines that the winning type is a specific winning type that has a relatively high degree of value associated with winning among a plurality of winning types. As a result, when the symbol is stopped and displayed in a manner representing the specific winning type by the symbol display means, the special value special game that enables the generation of the specific value is executed, while the lottery execution means is executed As a result of determination by the winning type determining means that the winning is obtained by internal lottery and the non-specific winning type among the plurality of winning types corresponds to a relatively low degree of value associated with winning, the symbol display means A special game executor who executes a non-specific value special game that enables generation of a value lower than the specific value when a symbol is stopped and displayed in a manner representing the non-specific winning type And,
If any of the specific value special game or the non-specific value special game is executed by the special game execution means is completed, a low probability that the the winning in internal lottery obtained at relatively low probability also cases A high probability state transition means for transitioning from a state to a high probability state in which a winning in the internal lottery is obtained with a higher probability than the low probability state;
When the result of non-winning in the internal lottery performed during the transition to the high probability state by the high probability state transition means reaches a specific number of times, the low probability of shifting from the high probability state to the low probability state. A probability state transition means,
The symbol effect execution means
When winning is obtained by the internal lottery executed by the lottery executing means, and when the winning type determining means determines that it corresponds to the specific winning type, a specific mode representing a relationship with the specific winning type While the stop display effect is executed using the effect symbol that has, the winning type determination means if the winning is obtained in the internal lottery executed by the lottery execution means, and if it corresponds to the non-specific winning type If determined, the stop display effect is executed using the effect symbol having a non-specific aspect representing the relevance with the non-specific winning type,
The material setting changing means includes
When winning is obtained in the internal lottery performed while being transferred to the high probability state by at least the high probability state shifting means, and when the winning type determination means determines that it corresponds to the specific winning type The game machine is characterized in that, as satisfying the specific condition, the aspect of the effect symbol is changed from the initial setting. The gaming machine according to claim 2,
The material setting means includes
Among the specified number of the effect symbols, the initial number of the effect symbols having the non-specific aspects is set to be larger than the total number of the effect symbols having the specific aspects.
The material setting changing means includes
When the specific condition is satisfied, the material setting unit initially changes the effect design that had the non-specific mode in the initial setting by the material setting unit to the specific mode. The total number of the production symbols having the specific aspect set in the above is increased in a prescribed number, and the total number of the production symbols having the non-specific aspect is relatively reduced in the prescribed number. To play. In the gaming machine according to claim 2 or 3,
The symbol effect execution means
A plurality of effect symbol arrays in which a specified number of the effect symbols having different aspects of distinction are arranged in series are configured, and the effect display effect is changed by changing the effect symbols for the specified number in each effect symbol array. After executing the above, the stop display effect is executed by configuring the combination of the effect symbols among a plurality of effect symbol arrays in a state where the variation of the effect symbols in all the effect symbol arrays is stopped. ,
The material setting means includes
In each effect symbol arrangement constituted by the symbol effect execution means, the total number of the effect symbols having the non-specific aspect is set to be larger than the total number of the effect symbols having the specific aspect at an initial stage.
The material setting changing means includes
For all effect symbol arrays configured by the symbol effect execution means, the total number of effect symbols having the specific mode is increased from the initial setting, and the total number of effect symbols having the non-specific mode is initially set. A gaming machine characterized in that it is reduced from the setting. In the gaming machine according to claim 4,
Execution of the special value special game by the special game execution means when winning is obtained in the internal lottery executed by the lottery execution means and the winning type determination means determines that the winning type is determined to be applicable to the specific winning type Further comprising a change notice effect executing means for executing a change notice effect related to a change in the aspect of the relevance to the winning type of the effect symbol,
The material setting changing means includes
When the change notice effect is executed by the change notice effect executing means while the specific value special game is being executed by the special game executing means, all of the symbol effect executing means are configured after the specific value special game is finished. For the effect symbol arrangement, the total number of the effect symbols having the specific aspect is increased from the initial setting, and the total number of the effect symbols having the non-specific aspect is relatively decreased from the initial setting. Gaming machine. In the gaming machine according to any one of claims 2 to 5 ,
After the transition to the high-probability state by the high-probability state transition means in a state in which the aspect of the production symbol has been changed from the initial setting by the material setting changing means, the winning is not obtained in the internal lottery. The apparatus further comprises material setting initialization means for canceling a change by the material setting changing means and returning a specified number of the design symbols to the initial setting by the material setting means when the low probability state is entered. A featured gaming machine.