JP6147301B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine that performs an internal lottery on the condition that an event that becomes a lottery trigger has occurred, and displays the result of the internal lottery by displaying the symbols after variably displaying them.

  Conventionally, during the execution of a demonstration using a demo decoration symbol (numbers “0” to “9”, etc.) corresponding to a special symbol, a circular fourth symbol is displayed alongside the display screen. Prior art 1 for changing the display color is known (for example, see Patent Document 1). This prior art tries to make the player recognize that the special symbol is in a variable display state by alternately changing the display color of the fourth symbol between white and black, even during the reach of the demonstration decorative symbol. To do.

  Further, as other prior art 2, when a special symbol start opening occurs during the special symbol variation display, information on the lottery (holding storage) is stored until variation display becomes possible after the next time, There is known a gaming machine that displays the stored number on a display (for example, see Patent Document 2). In this prior art 2, even if the upper limit value of the number of reserved storage is set to 8 at the maximum, the current storage number can be dealt with by the digital number display by 7 segment LED and the lighting number of 8 dot LED. it can. For this reason, for example, even when the upper limit number of reserved storage is changed from 4 to 8 due to the difference in models, it is possible to easily display about 8 storage numbers without changing the hardware specifications. Is possible.

JP 2010-220981 A (paragraph 0213-0221, FIG. 16) JP 2002-224352 A (paragraphs 0046-0050, FIG. 6)

  As in the above-described prior art 1 (Patent Document 1), when performing using the fourth symbol separately from the demonstration using the demo decoration symbol, the player knows that the special symbol is currently changing. Although it can be displayed, it is impossible to make the player recognize to what extent the effect of the special symbol variation display and the demonstration decoration design is progressing.

  In the case of Prior Art 2 (Patent Document 2), when the number of reserved memories actually reaches 8, an upper limit such as “special symbol / MAX” is displayed on the liquid crystal display screen separately from the display of the 7-segment LED and 8-dot LED. Although the option to use the display occurs, if the number of reserved memories decreases from 8, the number of reserved memories is simply reduced or the lit dots are erased. Information is not provided to the player.

  Therefore, the present invention provides a technique that can be used as a means for transmitting the progress of the symbol variable display to the player without limiting the presentation representing the memory of the lottery elements to merely presenting the number of memories.

The present invention employs the following means for solving the above problems.
Solution 1: The gaming machine according to the present invention generates a player's profit (for example, an operation opportunity for a variable winning device) on the condition that a predetermined event (for example, a winning at a start opening) that becomes a lottery opportunity occurs during the game. On the condition that the lottery element acquisition means for acquiring the lottery element (for example, random number) necessary for the internal lottery related to the profit) and that the lottery element is acquired by the lottery element acquisition means in association with the occurrence of the predetermined event When the internal lottery is executed, a predetermined symbol (including symbols visually recognized) is variably displayed over a predetermined variation time, and then the symbol is stopped in a manner representing the result of the internal lottery. The symbol display means to be displayed and the start condition for starting the symbol fluctuation display by the symbol display means (for example, if the symbol is not changing and the previous change has been made, the symbol is stopped. When the predetermined event occurs in a state where the condition is not satisfied), the lottery elements acquired by the lottery element acquisition unit are stored in the order of acquisition, and the number of the lottery elements stored Limit the new memory of the lottery element (the memory may be limited by restricting the acquisition of the lottery element, or the memory is limited by discarding the acquired lottery element. If the predetermined event occurs in a state where the lottery element storage means and the start condition are satisfied, the internal lottery is executed using the lottery element acquired by the lottery element acquisition means, and the symbol When the lottery elements are stored in the lottery element storage means at the end of the stop display after the symbol display is displayed by the display means, the lottery elements are used in the order in which they are stored. A lottery execution means for executing the storage number display effect of a mode in which the number of lottery elements stored is displayed using a storage display image that individually represents the storage of the lottery elements stored by the lottery element storage means. When the internal lottery is performed using the lottery element stored by the stored number display effect executing means and the lottery element storage means, the symbol display means according to the degree of progress during the variation display of the symbol. Storage display form change effect execution means for executing a storage display form change effect for changing the display form of the stored display image representing the storage of the lottery elements used in the internal lottery.

According to the gaming machine of the present invention, for example, the game proceeds along the following basic flow.
(1) A lottery element is acquired by the occurrence of a predetermined event during the game (for example, winning at the start opening).
(2) An internal lottery is performed on the condition that a lottery element has been acquired, and the lottery result is displayed by variably displaying and stopping the symbols. The fluctuation time at this time is determined in advance accompanying the internal lottery.
(3) Acquired when a predetermined event occurs in a state in which the start condition (for example, the symbol is not changing and the previous change has been made, the symbol stop display is confirmed) is not satisfied The lottery elements can be stored in order up to the maximum value. When the storage number reaches the maximum value, storage of lottery elements is limited.
(4) When a predetermined event occurs in a state where the start condition is satisfied (no lottery element is stored), an internal lottery is performed using the acquired lottery element. Further, if lottery elements are stored after the symbol stop display ends (when the stop display time is provided, when the stop display time elapses), an internal lottery is performed using the lottery elements in the storage order.
(5) The stored number of lottery elements stored in (3) above is displayed by a stored number display effect using a stored display image.
(6) In the present invention, in relation to the above (2), during the display of the variation of the symbol, a memory display form change effect is performed in which the display form of the stored display image is changed according to the progress status. The stored display image for changing the display form corresponds to the one representing the storage of the lottery elements used for the internal lottery at that time.

  This makes it possible for the player to recognize the degree of progress (situation) of the current symbol variation display or the effect during the variation display in terms of the display form of the stored display image. Can be widened.

(1) It is easy for the player to intuitively recognize how much the fluctuation time has elapsed (how much the remaining fluctuation time is) by the display form (current size) of the stored display image Therefore, for example, it can be used as a guide when determining whether or not to increase the memory of the next lottery element.
(2) It is possible to cause the player to guess how long the current variation time is set from the situation in which the display form of the stored display image changes (for example, the speed of change).
(3) It is possible to provide a material for judging whether or not the current display is variably displayed from elements other than the design and the corresponding design design, and to add diversity to the judgment material during the game. it can.
As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to make it easier for the player to recognize the degree of progress of the variable display through the memory display form change effect during the variable display of the symbol, thereby widening the range of game play. .

  Solving means 2: In the solving means 1, the storage display form change effect executing means displays the stored display image at an initial size at an initial time point when the symbol display means starts the variable display of the symbol. Thereafter, the size of the stored display image is gradually reduced in accordance with the progress of the variable display of the symbols.

  According to this solution, the player can easily recognize the current degree of progress of the variable display depending on how small the size of the stored display image is from the beginning. In addition, the total length of the variation time and the remaining time can be estimated from the speed at which the stored display image becomes smaller, and the range of game play can be further expanded.

  Solving means 3: In the solving means 1 and 2, the storage display form change effect executing means changes the display form of the stored display image in accordance with the elapsed time after the symbol change display is started by the symbol display means. It can also be changed.

  In this case, for example, the elapsed time up to the present time can be transmitted to the player in an easy-to-understand manner by further emphasizing the change in the display form of the stored display image as the elapsed time after the start of symbol variation increases.

  Solving means 4: In the solving means 1 to 3, the storage display form change effect executing means changes the display form of the stored display image in accordance with the remaining time of the variation time preset by the symbol display means. You can also.

  In this case, for example, after the start of the variation of the symbol, as the remaining of the predetermined variation time decreases, the change in the display form of the stored display image is emphasized to increase the current remaining time (to what extent the variation continues. Can be transmitted to the player in an easy-to-understand manner.

  Solving means 5: In the solving means 1 to 4, the stored number display effect executing means predefines a number of the stored display images corresponding to the number of the lottery elements stored by the lottery element storing means within a predetermined display screen. The stored display form change effect executing means displays the lottery element used in the internal lottery among the stored display images displayed in the first display area. The display form can be changed in a state where the stored display image representing the storage of the image is moved to a second display area defined in advance in the display screen separately from the first display area.

  According to the present solution, the storage display image representing the storage of the lottery elements that have not been used for the internal lottery is displayed in the first display area (for example, the lower display area X1) and is waiting, and the current fluctuation ( The storage display image representing the storage of the lottery elements used for the (internal lottery) is moved from the first display area to the second display area (for example, the changing display area X2), and the display form changes there. Become.

  In this case, it is possible to easily distinguish between the stored display image waiting for change (waiting) and the currently displayed storage display image for the player. Further, by moving the stored display image from the first display area to the second display area, the player is told that “the lottery elements that have been waiting for fluctuation are shifted and an internal lottery is performed. It is possible to convey intuitively and easily that “variable display has started”.

  As described above, according to the present invention, the range of game play can be expanded.

It is a front view of a pachinko machine. It is a rear view of a pachinko machine. It is a front view which expands and shows a part of game board. It is a figure explaining the detail of the structure of a distribution apparatus. It is a figure explaining the principle of operation of a distribution device (1/2). It is a figure explaining the operation | movement principle of a distribution apparatus (2/2). 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 1st special symbol game process. It is a flowchart which shows the structural example of a 2nd 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. It is a figure which shows the structure row | line | column of the big hit stop symbol selection table according to a 1st special symbol and a 2nd special symbol. It is a figure which shows an example of the fluctuation pattern selection table at the time of 15 round big hit winning. 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 continuous figure which shows the example of the production image matched with the independent change display and stop display of the 1st special symbol. It is a continuous figure which shows the example of the production image matched with the independent fluctuation display and stop display of the 2nd special symbol. It is a figure which shows the relationship between the change of the display form of the marker performed on production, and the remaining variation time of a 1st special symbol. It is a continuous figure which shows the flow of the effect performed when the fluctuation | variation display of a 2nd special symbol is started and the parallel fluctuation | variation generate | occur | produces during the fluctuation | variation display of a 1st special symbol. It is a continuous figure which shows the flow of the effect performed when the change display of a 1st special symbol is complete | finished previously from the previous parallel change state. Contrary to the above, it is a continuous diagram showing the flow of effects performed when the variation display of the first special symbol is started and the parallel variation occurs during the variation display of the second special symbol. It is a continuous figure which shows the example of the memory | storage display effect performed according to the increase in the number of working memories during parallel fluctuation, and the flow of the subsequent effect. It is a continuation figure (1/2) which shows the flow of the production until it becomes a big hit through generation | occurrence | production of a reach state during parallel fluctuation. It is a continuation figure (2/2) which shows the flow of the production until it becomes a big hit through generation | occurrence | production of a reach state during parallel fluctuation. 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 an operation | movement memory production | presentation management process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a joint change effect selection process in parallel fluctuation. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the operation | movement memory effect execution process during fluctuation | variation display. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the marker display update process during fluctuation display. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a 1st special symbol effect design management process. 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 the process during effect design change.

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. The overall configuration of the gaming machine will be described below with reference to FIGS.

[Overall configuration of gaming machine]
The pachinko machine 1 mainly includes an outer frame assembly 2, a glass frame unit 4, a tray unit 6 and a plastic frame assembly 7 (game machine frame) as its main body. Among these, the outer frame assembly 2 is a structure in which wood is combined in a vertically long rectangular shape, and the outer frame assembly 2 uses fasteners such as screws for island facilities (not shown) in the game hall. Are fixed.

  The other glass frame unit 4, tray unit 6, and plastic frame assembly 7 are attached to the island facility via the outer frame assembly 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 right edge (left edge in FIG. 2) of the plastic frame assembly 7 when viewed from the front in FIG. Correspondingly, the glass frame unit 4 and the right edge (back side) of the outer frame assembly 2 are each provided with a locking tool (not shown). As shown in FIG. 1, in a state where the glass frame unit 4 and the plastic frame assembly 7 are closed with respect to the outer frame assembly 2, the unified lock unit 9 on the back side of the glass frame unit 4 and the plastic 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 a game hall inserts a dedicated key into the keyhole and twists the cylinder lock 6a clockwise, the unified lock unit 9 operates to open the glass frame unit 4 and the tray unit 6 together with the plastic frame assembly 7. It becomes a state. When these are entirely opened from the outer frame assembly 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 glass frame unit 4 is unlocked while the plastic frame assembly 7 remains locked, and the glass frame unit 4 can be opened. When the glass frame unit 4 is opened to the front side, the game board 8 is exposed directly, and in this state, the manager of the game hall can remove obstacles such as ball clogging in the board surface. When the glass frame unit 4 is opened, the lock mechanism (not shown) of the tray unit 6 is exposed. If the lock mechanism is released in this state, the tray unit 6 can be opened to the front side with respect to the plastic frame assembly 7.

  The pachinko machine 1 includes a game board 8 as a game unit. The game board 8 is supported by the plastic frame assembly 7 behind (inside) the glass frame unit 4. The game board 8 can be attached to and detached from the plastic frame assembly 7 with the glass frame unit 4 opened to the front side, for example. The glass frame unit 4 has a vertically oval window 4a formed at the center thereof, and a glass unit (no reference numeral) is attached in the window 4a. The glass unit is a combination of, for example, two transparent plates (glass plates) cut in accordance with the shape of the window 4a. The glass unit is attached to the back side of the glass frame unit 4 in an openable / closable manner via a hinge mechanism (not shown). A game area 8a (board surface) is formed on the front surface of the game board 8, and the game area 8a is visible to the player from the front side through the window 4a. When the glass frame unit 4 is closed, a space in which a game ball can flow down is formed between the inner surface of the glass unit and the game board surface.

  The saucer unit 6 has a shape projecting from the outer frame assembly 2 to the front side as a whole, and an upper dish 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.

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

  A grip unit 16 is installed at the lower right portion of the tray unit 6. The player operates the grip 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 along the left side edge of the game board 8, 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.

[Configuration of the board]
In the game area 8a, a starting gate 20, normal winning ports 22, 24, a right starting winning port 26, a variable starting winning device 28, a variable winning device 30, a distribution device 200, and the like are installed. The game balls thrown into the game area 8a randomly pass through the start gate 20 in the process of flowing down, pass through the sorting device 200, or the normal winning ports 22, 24 and the right starting winning port 26. Then, the variable start winning device 28 is won (entered). The game balls that have passed through the start gate 20 continue to flow down in the game area 8a, but the winning game balls are collected to the back side of the game board 8 through through holes formed in the game board.

  The variable start winning device 28 operates when a predetermined condition is satisfied (when the normal symbol is stopped and displayed in a winning manner), and accordingly, the left start winning port 28a can be awarded. (Ordinary electric appliance). The variable start winning device 28 has, for example, a pair of left and right movable pieces 28b, and these movable pieces 28b reciprocate in the left-right direction along the board surface by the action of a link mechanism using a solenoid (not shown), for example. That is, as shown in the drawing, the left and right movable pieces 28b are in the closed position with the tip facing upward, and at this time, winning to the left start winning opening 28a is impossible (there is no gap through which game balls can flow). ing. On the other hand, when the variable start winning device 28 is operated, the left and right movable pieces 28b are displaced (expanded) from the closed position toward the open position, and the opening width of the left start winning port 28a is expanded to the left and right. During this time, the variable start winning device 28 is in a state in which a game ball can flow in, and generates a winning to the left start winning port 28a. Note that the arrangement (gauge) of the obstacle nails installed on the game board 8 is basically a mode in which it is easy to guide the flow of the game balls toward the variable start winning device 28, but the game balls are always variable. The inflow does not necessarily flow into the start winning device 28, but the inflow occurs only at random.

  Here, in the lower part of the ball discharge path 40f and the upper part of the variable start winning device 28 and the right start winning port 26, the sorting device 200 is arranged. Details of the structure and operation of the sorting apparatus 200 will be described later.

  In addition, the above variable winning device 30 operates when a prescribed condition is satisfied (when a special symbol is stopped and displayed in a mode other than non-winning), and can be awarded to a big winning opening (no reference sign). (Special electric equipment, special winning event generation means). The variable winning device 30 is a device disposed on the left side of the upper end portion of the effect unit 40 (so-called upper attacker), and has, for example, one opening / closing member 30a. The opening / closing member 30a is displaced from the closed position toward the open position by the action of a link mechanism using a solenoid (not shown), for example. As shown in the drawing, the opening / closing member 30a is in the closed position (closed state) with the tip facing upward (continuous with the effect unit 40), and at this time, winning in the grand prize opening is always impossible (big winning) The mouth is closed). When the variable winning device 30 is operated, the opening / closing member 30a is displaced so as to fall to the left with the lower end edge portion serving as a hinge, thereby opening the large winning opening (open state). During this time, the variable winning device 30 is in a state in which the inflow of game balls is not impossible, and can generate an event of winning a prize winning opening. 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.

  In addition, an out port 32 is formed in the game area 8 a, and game balls that have not won a prize are finally collected through the out port 32 to the back side of the game board 8. In addition, all the game balls that have been driven into the game area 8a, including the game balls won in the right start winning opening 26, the variable start winning device 28, and the variable winning device 30, are collected to the back side of the game board 8. 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).

  The game board 8 is provided with a normal symbol display device 33 and a normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a, for example, at the lower right position in the window 4a, as well as a first special symbol display device 34, a second special symbol display device 35, A first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a, a second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a, and a game state display device 38 are provided (normal symbol display means, special symbol display means, lottery element storage means). 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).

  FIG. 3 is an enlarged front view showing a part of the game board 8 (lower right position in the window 4a). The first special symbol display device 34 and the second special symbol display device 35 can display the variation state and stop state of the special symbol by, for example, 7 segment LEDs (with dots), respectively (symbol display means).

  In addition, the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a and the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a each display 0 to 4 memory numbers, for example, by combinations of extinguishing, lighting, or blinking of two lamps (LEDs). (Memory number display means). For example, when both lamps are off, 0 is stored, when 1 lamp is lit, 1 is displayed, and when the same lamp is flashing, 2 is displayed. When the other lamp is turned on, 3 stored numbers are displayed, and when the two lamps are both flashed, 4 stored numbers are displayed.

  When the game ball flows into the right start winning opening 26, the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a is displayed one by one in the sense of memorizing that a winning has occurred, and the special symbol changes in response to the winning. Each time is started, the display decreases by one. In addition, when the game ball flows into the variable start winning device 28 (the left start winning port 28a), the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a is displayed one by one in the sense that it stores the winning, Each time the change of the special symbol is started in response to the winning, the display decreases 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 first special symbol can be started to fluctuate (at the time of stop display) in the right start winning opening 26. The display does not increase even if game balls flow in. Further, when the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a is not lit (the number of memories is 0), the variable start winning device 28 (left start winning port 28a) is in a state in which the second special symbol can already start to change (when stopped). ) The display does not increase even if game balls flow into. That is, the number of displays (maximum 4) of each special symbol operation memory lamp 34a, 35a represents the number of winnings that have not yet started to change in the first special symbol or the second special symbol.

  The game state display device 38 includes four LEDs corresponding to, for example, jackpot type display lamps 38a and 38b, a probability variation state display lamp 38c, and a short time state display lamp 38d. 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 described above. The operation memory lamp 35a and the game status display device 38 are attached to the game board 8 in a state where they are mounted on one integrated display board 89.

[Other configuration of the game board: see FIG. 1]
The game board 8 is provided with a production unit 40 from the center position to the right side. The effect 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 and 40c on the inner side. The decorative parts 40b and 40c can enhance the decorativeness of the game board 8 by the three-dimensional modeling, and can perform a dramatic operation by emitting transmitted light using, for example, a built-in light emitter (LED or the like). In addition, a liquid crystal display 42 (image display) is installed inside the effect unit 40, and various effect images including an effect symbol corresponding to the special symbol are displayed on the liquid crystal display 42. As described above, the game board 8 impresses the player with the characteristics of the pachinko machine 1 based on the configuration of the board surface (design of a cell plate (not shown)) and the decoration of the effect unit 40.

  A ball guide passage 40d is formed at the left edge of the effect unit 40, and a rolling stage 40e is 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 path 40d, it passes through the inside and rolls. Released onto the stage 40e. 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 rolling stage 40e will eventually flow into the lower game area 8a. A ball discharge path 40f is formed at the center position of the rolling stage 40e. At this time, the game balls that have flowed down from the rolling stage 40e to the ball discharge path 40f are likely to flow into the sorting device 200 directly below. In addition, the production unit 40 may be accompanied by a drive source (eg, a motor, a solenoid, etc.) together with a production movable body (eg, a character figure, decoration, etc.). In addition to the effect using the image by the liquid crystal display 42 and the effect by the light emitter, the movable body for effect can execute the effect accompanied by the operation of the tangible object. Due to the effects using these movable bodies, it is possible to demonstrate appealing power different from the effects using two-dimensional images.

[Configuration of the front of the frame]
In the glass frame unit 4, glass frame top lamps 46 and 48 and glass frame side lamps 50 are installed at a plurality of locations so as to surround the glass unit 8 as components for production. In addition, a tray lamp 52 is installed in the tray unit 6, and the tray lamp 52, the glass frame top lamps 46 and 48, and the glass frame side lamp 50 are integrally connected on the front surface of the pachinko machine 1 in appearance. Designed as if it were.

  The various lamps 46 to 52 described above perform effects by, for example, light emission (lighting and blinking, change in luminance gradation, change in color tone, and the like) of built-in LEDs. In addition, a pair of left and right glass frame speakers 54 and a glass frame middle speaker 55 are built in the upper part of the glass frame unit 4, and a saucer speaker 56 is provided on the right side of the lower plate 6 c in the saucer unit 6. Built in. 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 (operation input receiving means) is installed at a position in front of the upper tray 6b. The player operates the effect switching button 45 to switch the contents of the effect (for example, the background screen displayed on the liquid crystal display 42), for example, while the symbol is changing, during the big hit decision display, or during the big hit game It is possible to generate some effects (various notice effects, probable promotion effects, etc.).

[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 electronic devices will be further described later based on another block diagram (FIG. 7).

  The payout device unit 172 has, for example, a prize ball tank 172a and a prize ball case (no reference sign), and the prize ball tank 172a is installed on the upper edge (back side) of the plastic 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 an interface 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. 4 is a diagram for explaining the details of the structure of the sorting apparatus 200.
Regardless of the gaming state, the distribution device 200 generates a winning at the right start winning opening 26 (occurrence of the first event) and generates a winning at the variable start winning apparatus 28 (the left starting winning opening 28a) (the second event). This is a device that can alternately generate (occurrence) (event generation means).

  The sorting apparatus 200 includes a guide path 201 having a width that allows one game ball to pass therethrough. The guide path 201 has a tunnel-like structure, and two outlets (a first outlet 203 and a second outlet 204) are formed for one inlet 202. Therefore, the game ball that has flowed into the inlet 202 is guided to either the first outlet 203 or the second outlet 204. The guide path 201 is made of a transparent member, and the visibility of the game ball inside thereof is ensured.

  A cylindrical space is formed in the central portion of the guide path 201, and a windmill-shaped rotating body 205 is disposed in the space. The rotating body 205 includes three wing members 205a, 205b, and 205c that extend radially from the central axis of the rotating body 205. The rotating body 205 does not perform an operation by electric or other power, and rotates when the game ball collides with the wing members 205a, 205b, and 205c.

  Here, two protrusions 206 a and 206 b that restrict the rotation of the rotating body 205 are provided in the guide path 201 (near the middle of the first outlet 203 and the second outlet 204) in the lower part of the rotating body 205. Yes. Then, when the wing members 205a and 205b abut against the protrusions 206a and 206b, the rotation of the rotating body 205 is restricted.

  5 and 6 are diagrams for explaining the operating principle of the sorting apparatus 200. FIG. FIG. 5 shows a state where game balls are distributed to the variable start winning device 28 (left start winning port 28a), and FIG. 6 shows a state where game balls are distributed to the right start winning port 26. .

[Distribution to variable start winning device 28 (left start winning port 28a)]
As shown in FIG. 5A, in the initial state, the wing member 205b of the rotating body 205 is in contact with the right protrusion 206b.
When the game ball 300 flows into the inlet 202 in this state, the game ball 300 enters between the wing member 205a and the wing member 205c in the rotator 205, and the rotator 205 turns counterclockwise (counterclockwise) by the weight of the game ball 300. ).

  Then, as shown in FIG. 5B, when the rotating body 205 rotates counterclockwise, the game ball 300 is guided to the first outlet 203, and the game ball 300 is distributed to the variable start winning device 28 side. . The wing member 205a of the rotating body 205 is in contact with the left protrusion 206a, whereby the rotation of the rotating body 205 is restricted. The game balls 300 distributed to the variable start winning device 28 side may win the variable start winning device 28 (left start winning port 28a) as it is, or may be changed by being bounced by a nail above the variable start winning device 28. There is a case where the start winning device 28 is not won. In addition, depending on the state of the nail in the game area 8a, there is also a game ball 300 that wins the variable start winning device 28 without going through the sorting device 200. The member between the left start winning opening 28a and the nail above it is merely a passing gate.

[Distribution to the right start winning entrance 26]
As described above, when the distribution to the variable start winning device 28 (left start winning port 28a) is performed, the wing member 205a of the rotating body 205 is in contact with the left protrusion 206a. .

  As shown in FIG. 6A, when the game ball 300 flows into the inlet 202 in this state, the game ball 300 enters between the wing member 205b and the wing member 205c in the rotating body 205, and the weight of the game ball 300 is increased. This time, the rotating body 205 rotates clockwise (clockwise).

  Then, as shown in FIG. 6B, when the rotating body 205 rotates clockwise, the game ball 300 is guided to the second outlet 204, and the game ball 300 is distributed to the right start winning opening 26 side. . The wing member 205b of the rotator 205 is in contact with the right protrusion 206b, whereby the rotation of the rotator 205 is restricted. The game balls distributed to the right start winning port 26 may be directly awarded to the right start winning port 26 as in the case of the variable start winning device 28 (left start winning port 28a) described above. In some cases, the right starting winning opening 26 may not be won by being hit by a nail above 26. There is also a game ball 300 that wins the right start winning opening 26 without going through the sorting device 200 depending on the state of the nail in the game area 8a.

  In the present embodiment, since such a distribution device 200 is adopted, a winning occurs at the right start winning opening 26 (occurrence of the first event) and a variable start winning apparatus 28 (the left starting winning opening 28a). The occurrence of winning (occurrence of the second event) occurs alternately at a relatively high frequency. However, the winning at the right start winning opening 26 may continue, or the winning at the left start winning opening 28a may continue.

[Control configuration]
Next, a configuration related to control of the pachinko machine 1 will be described. FIG. 7 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 and a RAM (RWM) together with a CPU core and registers (not shown). ) This is configured as an LSI in which semiconductor memories such as 76 are integrated. 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 determining the big hit, and the generated random number is input to the main control CPU 72 through the sampling circuit 77. The 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 8 is provided with a right start winning port switch 80, a left start winning port switch 82 and a count switch 84 corresponding to the right start winning port 26, the variable start winning device 28 and the variable winning device 30, respectively. . Each start winning port switch 80, 82 is for detecting a winning of a game ball to the right start winning port 26 and the variable start winning device 28 (left start winning port 28a). 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 8 is equipped with a winning opening switch 86 for detecting the winning of a game ball to the normal winning openings 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, a winning of a game ball for the normal winning ports 22, 24 located on the left side of the board surface is detected, and in the right winning port switch 86, a winning of a game ball in the normal winning port 24 located on the right side of the board surface is detected. Also good.

  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). Due to the configuration of the game board 8, in this embodiment, the winning detection signals from the gate switch 78, the count switch 84, and the winning opening switch 86 are transmitted via the panel relay terminal plate 87, and are sent to the panel relay terminal plate 87. , Wiring patterns and connection terminals for relaying the respective winning detection signals are provided.

  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 on the game board 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 substrate 89 via the panel relay terminal board 87.

  Further, the game board 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 when the plastic frame assembly 7 is opened from the outer frame assembly 2. The contact point 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 or 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 equipped (special privilege grant means). 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 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 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. When the lower tray 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. .

  On the back side of the pachinko machine 1, a firing solenoid 110 is installed together with the firing 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. Moreover, 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. The game ball is emitted 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. . 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). The lending / return switch board 123 has switch modules connected to the ball lending button 10 and the return button 12, respectively. When the ball lending button 10 or the return button 12 is operated, the operation signal is lended and It is transmitted from the return switch board 123 to the CR unit via the game ball rental device connecting terminal board 120. 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 game 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. If no valuable medium is inserted in the CR unit or the remaining frequency of the inserted valuable medium becomes zero, the display circuit of the frequency display board 122 drives the display device to display a demonstration (of the valuable medium). (Display for prompting input) can also be performed.

  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 by 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 driving circuit 132 and an acoustic driving 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. Note that the communication harness may adopt a parallel format according to the bus width of various commands transmitted from the main control device 70 to the effect control device 124, or 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 saucer lamp 52, the various lamps include a decoration / production board lamp 53 installed in the game board 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. Further, 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 input to the effect control device 124 through the glass frame decorating board 136. Is done. In addition, although the example which connected the production | presentation switch button 45 to the glass-frame decoration board 136 is given here, when installing said saucer illumination board, the production switch button 45 is connected to the saucer illumination board. Also good. In addition, the panel board 138 is installed in the game board 8, and a driving signal from the lamp driving circuit 132 is applied to the panel lamp 53 via the panel board 138.

  The liquid crystal display 42 is installed on the back side of the game board 8 and the display screen through the substantially rectangular opening formed in the game board 8 is visible. Further, an inverter board 158 is installed on the back side of the game board 8, and the inverter board 158 generates an AC power source that is applied to a backlight (for example, a cathode tube) of the liquid crystal display 42. Furthermore, an effect display control device 144 is installed on the back side of the game board 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 in the frame buffer for each frame (still image per unit time) on the VRAM 156, and individually handles each pixel (full color pixel) of the liquid crystal display 42 based on the buffered image data. To drive.

  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.

  8 and 9 are flowcharts showing an example of the procedure 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: The main control CPU 72 clears the command waiting for transmission immediately before the occurrence of the previous power interruption.

  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. 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: 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. 9 (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 valid 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, various random numbers (for example, hit determination random numbers corresponding to ordinary symbols, jackpot symbol random numbers, reach determination random numbers, variation pattern determination random numbers, etc.) other than jackpot determination random numbers (hardware random numbers) are generated on the program. ing. These software random numbers are updated by a loop counter within a predetermined range in another interrupt process (step S201 in FIG. 11). 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. 11), so there is a duplication (contention). ) To prevent the above). As described above, in this embodiment, the big hit determination random number is a hardware random number generated by the random number generator 75, and its update cycle is faster (eg, several μs) than the timer interrupt cycle (eg, several ms). Therefore, it is not necessary to update the initial value of the jackpot determination 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 for 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. 11). The contents of the interrupt management process will be described later.

[Power failure check processing]
FIG. 10 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: 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 that the checksum is normal in the previous reset start process (FIG. 8).

[Interrupt management processing (timer interrupt processing)]
Next, interrupt management processing (timer interrupt processing) will be described. FIG. 11 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. The various random numbers include, for example, jackpot symbol random numbers, normal symbol random numbers determined, and the like.

  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 right starting winning port switch 80, left 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 right start winning port switch 80, and the left 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 right start winning port switch 80 or the left 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. When the 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. The processing executed when a winning detection signal is input from the right start winning port switch 80 or the left starting winning port switch 82 will be described later with reference to another flowchart.

  Step S205A, Step S205B, Step S206: The main control CPU 72 executes a first special symbol game process, a second 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. Among these, in the first special symbol game process (step S205A), the main control CPU 72 controls the execution of the internal lottery corresponding to the first special symbol described above, and the first special symbol display device 34 displays and stops the change. The display is controlled, and the operation of the variable winning device 30 is controlled according to the display result. In the second special symbol game process (step S205B), the main control CPU 72 controls the execution of the internal lottery corresponding to the second special symbol, and controls the variable display and stop display by the second special symbol display device 35. The operation of the variable winning device 30 is controlled according to the display result. Details of the first special symbol game process and the second 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 controls the operation of the variable start winning device 28 according to the display result. To do. 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 the present embodiment, among 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 device) connected to the pachinko machine 1 is output. Can provide various jackpot information (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 jackpot. Or for each table, it can be recognized whether or not the current symbol variation time is in a shortened state. 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: 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 signals stored in the port output request buffer in the first special symbol game process (step S205A), the second special symbol game process (step S205B), and the normal symbol game process (step S206) are displayed. Output port. 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 together.

  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 S205A to S212 is executed as a timer interrupt processing. However, these processes are incorporated in the main loop of the CPU and executed. There is also a programming example.

  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. 12 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the switch input event process (step S204 in FIG. 11). Each procedure will be described below.

  Step S10: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not a winning detection signal is input (a first event occurs) from the right 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 (second event occurs) from the left 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 operating 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. 11).

[First special symbol memory update process]
FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the first special symbol memory update process (step S12 in FIG. 12). 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. 12). 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. 11).

  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. 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 are stored in the empty section in the area. To memorize as a set. 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 game management state (internal 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 the pre-reading effect is not performed during the big hit.

  Step S37: When the current game management state (internal state) is other than the 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. 12).

[Second special symbol memory update process]
Next, FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the second special symbol memory update process (step S16 in FIG. 12). 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. 12). On the other hand, if the value of the second special symbol operation memory number counter is still less than 4 (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. 13), the lighting state of the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a is controlled by the display output management process (step S210 in FIG. 11) 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 number value is the same as step S32 (FIG. 13) 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. 13) described above.

  Step S44: 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. Acquisition of these random values is also performed in the same manner as step S34 (FIG. 13) described above.

  Step S45: The main control CPU 72 transfers the saved jackpot determination random number, jackpot symbol random number, reach determination random number, reach mode random number and variation pattern determination random number to the random number storage area corresponding to the second special symbol, and these random numbers are stored in the area. It is memorized as a set in the empty section. The storage method is the same as step S35 (FIG. 13) described above.

  Step S45a: Next, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the current game management state (internal 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 the pre-reading effect is not performed 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 an operating memory number command for the second special symbol.

  Step S49: The main control CPU 72 executes an effect command output process for the second special symbol. As a result, preparation for transmitting a special figure destination determination effect command, an effect command for 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 24 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. 12).

[Acquisition process during acquisition]
FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure of an acquisition effect determination process. 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. 13 and step S46 in FIG. 14) (predetermined determination). Execution means). As described above, this processing is executed for each of the first special symbol (when winning the right start winning opening 26) and the second special symbol (when winning the 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. 13) or the second special symbol memory update process (step S45 in FIG. 14). .

  Step S54: 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). 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 preliminary 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.

  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. 13) or the second special symbol memory update process (FIG. 14). 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). 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 comparative value for low probability 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 checks 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). Next, 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 outside the range of the winning value. 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 deviation pattern information prior 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. 13) or the second special symbol memory update process (step S45 in FIG. 14). 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: 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 big hit hour fluctuation pattern information preliminary determination processing (fluctuation pattern preliminary 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: Then, 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 Then, step S64 is executed to set a comparative value for high probability.

  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. 13) or the second special symbol memory update process (FIG. 14).

[Parallel variation of the first special symbol and the second special symbol]
Next, details of the first special symbol game process and the second special symbol game process executed in the interrupt management process (FIG. 11) will be described. In the present embodiment, the first special symbol display device 34 displays the change in the first special symbol and the second special symbol by separately executing the internal lottery corresponding to each of the first special symbol and the second special symbol. It is possible to display the variation of the second special symbol on the display device 35 in parallel. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the first special symbol game process and the second special symbol game process are separately performed (once in one interrupt cycle) on the control by the main control CPU 72 for each of the first special symbol and the second special symbol. One by one).

[First special symbol game processing]
First, FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing a configuration example of the first special symbol game process. The first special symbol game process has a procedure (step S980) for confirming whether or not the other second special symbol is a big hit.

  Step S980: That is, the main control CPU 72 first confirms whether or not the gaming state corresponding to the second special symbol is “big hit”. This confirmation can be performed based on the progress status of the processing performed so far on the second special symbol (the value of the second special symbol game management status). The reason for this confirmation in the present embodiment is that the game relating to the first special symbol is not allowed to proceed when the jackpot is related to the other second special symbol.

  At this time, particularly if the second special symbol is not big hit (the second special symbol game management status is a value that is big hit) (No), the main control CPU 72 executes the next step S1000 and subsequent steps. Steps S1000 to S5000 are program modules that form the basis of the first special symbol game process. The main control CPU 72 can specifically control the progress of the game corresponding to the first special symbol through the processes of step S1000 to step S5000 as the basis.

  The basic part of the first 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), and a special symbol stop display process (step S4000). , A subroutine (program module) group of variable winning device management processing (step S5000) is included. Here, first, a basic flow of the basic part of the first 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 first special symbol game process in the stack pointer as the return destination address.

  Which process is selected as the next jump destination differs depending on the progress of the process performed so far (first special symbol game management status). For example, if the first special symbol has not yet started to display the variation (first special symbol game management status: 00H), the main control CPU 72 performs the special symbol variation pre-processing (step S2000) as the next jump destination. select. On the other hand, if the special symbol variation pre-processing has already been completed (first 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 processed. If the process during the change is completed (first special symbol game management status: 02H), the special symbol stop display 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 of preparing conditions for starting the variation display of the first 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 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 the first 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. Similarly, an ON or OFF drive signal is output for each segment and dot of the 7-segment LED. However, the drive signal pattern is constant, whereby the first special symbol is stopped and displayed.

  Step S5000: The variable winning device management process is selected when the first 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 the first special symbol is stopped and displayed in the form of a big hit for 15 rounds, an opportunity to shift from the normal state until then to the big hit gaming state (a special gaming state advantageous to the player) occurs. During the jackpot game regarding the first special symbol, the jump destination is set in the variable winning device management process in the previous execution selection process (step S1000), and the variable display of the first special symbol is not performed. In the variable winning device management process, the large winning opening solenoid 90 is excited for a predetermined time (for example, 29 seconds or until 9 winnings are counted) for a predetermined number of continuous operations (for example, 2 times, 15 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 15 times, these may be collectively referred to as “15 rounds”. In the present embodiment, not only 15 round big hits but also multiple types of 2 round big hits are provided as the types of big hits. Also, for the 15 round big hit, there are a plurality of winning types (winning symbols) 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. 11). 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 game) for the first special symbol only for that round.

  When the big hit game is finished with respect to the first special symbol, the main control CPU 72 determines the state after the big hit game (high probability state, time reduced state) based on the game state flag (probability variation function operation flag, time reduction function operation flag). ). 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). In the “time reduction state”, the time reduction function is activated, and the variation time of the special symbol (both the first special symbol and the second special symbol) is a normal length (for example, about 6 to 12 seconds; however, reach From the non-time shortened state set in (except when changing)) to a length (for example, about 1.5 seconds to 5.5 seconds) in which the variation time is shortened compared to this non-time shortened state. Transition to the set state. In addition to the special symbol variation time being shortened during the time reduction function, the normal symbol lottery has a high probability (for example, low probability of about 15/251 → about 249/251) The fluctuation time of the normal symbol is shortened (for example, about 10 seconds when not in operation → about 1 second) and the opening time of the variable start winning device 28 is extended (for example, about 0.3 seconds when inactive → 2. Since it is extended to about 5 seconds), and the number of times of opening increases (for example, it increases from 1 to 2 when it is not in operation), the game ball is fired for a long time (all memory of normal symbols is interrupted and variable start) The operation memory of the second special symbol is less likely to be interrupted (so-called electric chew support) as long as it is not interrupted for a period of time that the winning device 28 stops operating). 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.

  The above is the flow when the gaming state is not big hit for the other second special symbol (step S980: No), but when the gaming state is big hit for the second special symbol, or step S1000 to step S4000. When the gaming state is shifted to the big hit with respect to the second special symbol while executing the above (step S980: Yes), the main control CPU 72 executes step S982 and subsequent steps.

  Step S982: Here, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the first special symbol game management status is a value that is changing (= 01H). If the first special symbol is not changing at present (No), the main control CPU 72 exits the first special symbol game process and returns to the interrupt management process (FIG. 11). On the other hand, if the first special symbol is currently changing (Yes), the main control CPU 72 executes the next step S984.

  Step S984: In this case, the main control CPU 72 executes a first special symbol variation display hold process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 holds (maintains) the variable display of the first special symbol by the first special symbol display device 34. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 continues the drive control during the variable display for the first special symbol display device 34, but freezes the decrement of the variable timer and does not advance the counting of the variable time. For this reason, the first special symbol is variably displayed in appearance, but the variation display is substantially held (internally).

  As described above, when the gaming state is shifted to the big hit with respect to the other second special symbol, the main control CPU 72 does not execute steps S1000 to S5000 which are the main part in the first special symbol gaming process. The progress of the game will be stopped for one special symbol. However, when the first special symbol is already being displayed in a variable manner (step S982: Yes), in order to prevent the first special symbol display device 34 from freezing, it is apparent in the hold processing (step S984). The changing state is maintained.

[Second special symbol game processing]
Next, FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing a configuration example of the second special symbol game process. The second special symbol game process also includes a procedure (step S990) for confirming whether or not the other first special symbol is a big hit.

  Step S990: Similarly, the main control CPU 72 first confirms whether or not the gaming state corresponding to the first special symbol is “in a big hit”. This confirmation can also be performed based on the value of the first special symbol game management status as described above.

  At this time, in particular, if the first special symbol is not a big hit (the value of the first special symbol game management status is a big hit value) (No), the main control CPU 72 executes the next step S1900 and subsequent steps. Steps S1900 to S5900 are program modules that form the basis of the second special symbol game process. The main control CPU 72 can specifically control the progress of the game corresponding to the second special symbol through the processes of steps S1900 to S5900 which are the basis of these.

  As described in the first special symbol game process, the execution selection process (step S1900), the special symbol change pre-process (step S2900), and the special symbol change process (step S2900) are also performed for the basic part of the second special symbol game process. Step S3900), special symbol stop display processing (step S4900), variable winning device management processing (step S5900) subroutine (program module) group is included. The contents of each process are the same as those described in the first special symbol game process except that the object of control is the second special symbol, but in order to make the understanding of the invention more reliable, each process is described here. A basic flow of the basic part of the second special symbol game process will be described along the line.

  Step S1900: 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 S2900 to S5900) 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 second special symbol game process in the stack pointer as the return destination address.

  Here again, which process is selected as the next jump destination differs depending on the progress of the process performed so far (second special symbol game management status). For example, if the second special symbol has not yet started to change display (second special symbol game management status: 00H), the main control CPU 72 performs the special symbol variation pre-processing (step S2900) as the next jump destination. select. On the other hand, if the special symbol variation pre-processing has already been completed (second special symbol game management status: 01H), the main control CPU 72 selects the special symbol variation processing (step S3900) as the next jump destination, and the special symbol variation is processed. If the process during the change is completed (second special symbol game management status: 02H), the special symbol stop displaying process (step S4900) is selected as the next jump destination.

  Step S2900: In the special symbol variation pre-processing in the second special symbol game process, the main control CPU 72 performs an operation of preparing conditions for starting the variation display of the second special symbol.

  Step S3900: In the special symbol changing process, the main control CPU 72 controls the driving of the second special symbol display device 35 while counting the change timer.

  Step S4900: In the special symbol stop display process in the second special symbol game process, the main control CPU 72 controls the drive of 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, but the pattern of the drive signal is constant, whereby the stop display of the second special symbol is performed.

  Step S5900: The variable winning device management process is selected when the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in the winning mode (a mode other than non-winning) in the previous special symbol stop display process. Here again, the stop display mode of the second special symbol is determined in a mode for each winning type. Further, the main control CPU 72 sets the opening / closing operation of the variable winning device 30 for one round when the large winning opening opening pattern (number of rounds, number of opening / closing operations per round, opening time, etc.) is set in the variable winning device management process. Each time it is finished, the value of the round number counter is incremented by one. 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 game) for the second special symbol only for that round.

  When the big hit game is finished with respect to the second special symbol, the main control CPU 72 determines the state after the big hit game (high probability state, time reduced state) based on the game state flag (probability variation function operation flag, time shortening function operation flag). ). The “high probability state” and the “time reduction state” are the same as described above.

  The above is the flow when the gaming state is not big hit with respect to the other first special symbol (step S990: No), but when the gaming state is big hit with respect to the first special symbol, or step S1900 to step S4900. When the gaming state is shifted to the big hit for the first special symbol during the process up to (step S990: Yes), the main control CPU 72 executes step S992 and subsequent steps.

  Step S992: Here again, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the second special symbol game management status is a fluctuating value (= 01H). If the second special symbol is not changing at the present time (No), the main control CPU 72 exits from the second special symbol game process and returns to the interrupt management process (FIG. 11). On the other hand, if the second special symbol is changing at present (Yes), the main control CPU 72 executes the next step S994.

  Step S994: In this case, the main control CPU 72 executes a second special symbol variation display hold process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 holds (maintains) the variation display of the second special symbol by the second special symbol display device 35. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 continues the drive control during the variable display for the second special symbol display device 35, but freezes the variable timer decrement and does not advance the variable time count. For this reason, the second special symbol remains variably displayed in appearance, but the variably displayed state is substantially held (internally).

  As described above, when the gaming state is shifted to the big hit with respect to the other first special symbol, the main control CPU 72 does not execute steps S1900 to S5900, which is a basic part in the second special symbol gaming process, and therefore the first control symbol is the first control symbol. The progress of the game will be stopped for 2 special symbols. However, also here, if the second special symbol is already being displayed in a variable manner (step S992: Yes), the second special symbol display device 35 can be seen in the hold process (step S994) in order to prevent the second special symbol display device 35 from freezing. Above, the changing state will be maintained.

[Multiple winning types]
Further, in the present embodiment, for the above “15 round jackpot”, for example, (1) “15 round probability variable jackpot” and (2) “15 round normal (non-probability) jackpot” are provided as a plurality of winning types ( There may be more). In addition to “15 round big hits”, in this embodiment, for example, (3) “2 rounds probable big hits” and (4) “2 rounds normal big hits” are provided as a plurality of winning types (special winning types) (this) There may be more).

  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, “15 round probability variation jackpot” corresponds to the jackpot of “15 round probability variation symbol”, and “15 round normal jackpot” corresponds to the jackpot of “15 round probability symbol”. Further, “2 round probability variation jackpot” corresponds to the jackpot of “2 round probability variation symbol”, and “2 round normal jackpot” corresponds to the jackpot of “2 round regular symbol bonus”. For this reason, in the following description, “winning type” is appropriately referred to as “winning symbol”.

[15 round normal design]
First, in the special symbol stop display processing (steps S4000 and S4900) described above, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the form of “15 round normal symbol”, there is an opportunity to shift from the normal state until then to the big hit gaming state. Generated (special game execution 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 15th round. For this reason, the “15-round normal symbol” jackpot game gives the player 15 balls (prize balls) for the round. Note that 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. In this case, since the “probability changing function” is not activated, the privilege to shift to the “high probability state” is not given to the player. However, even if the “time reduction function” is inactive in the previous game, by operating the “time reduction function” after the end of the big hit game, there is a privilege to shift to the “variable time reduction state”. It is given to the player.

[15 round probability variation pattern]
Alternatively, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the form of “15 round probability variation symbol” in the special symbol stop display process (steps S4000 and S4900), 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 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 15th round. Each of these “15 round probable symbols” jackpot games will also give the player 15 balls (prize balls) for 15 rounds. Further, when a predetermined number of times (for example, 9 times = 9 game balls) is generated within one round, the big 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. Also, in this case, even if the “time reduction function” is inactive in the previous game, by operating the “time reduction function” after the big hit game is finished, the “variable time reduction state” is also achieved. A privilege to be transferred is given to the player.

[2-round probability variable design]
Alternatively, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the form of “two round probability variation symbol” in the special symbol stop display process (steps S4000 and S4900), the normal state until then shifts to a short-term big hit gaming state. An opportunity occurs. However, since the 2-round jackpot game ends in an extremely short time compared to the 15-round jackpot game, there is almost no 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 Variations”, after the jackpot game is over, for example, by operating both “Probability Change Function” and “Time Reduction Function”, the result is “High Probability State” Along with the privilege that shifts to “a time”, a privilege that shifts to “time reduction state” is given to the player. With regard to such a “two-round probability variation”, the player has the impression that a “high probability state” and a “time reduction state” have occurred unexpectedly without going through a clear big hit game. It will be saved.

  In any case, if the winning symbol falls under either of the above “15-round probability variation symbol” or “2-round probability variation symbol”, the player is given a privilege to shift the internal state to the “high probability state” after the big hit game ends. Is granted. In addition, if the internal lottery is won in the “high probability state” and the winning symbol at that time corresponds to either “15 round probability variation symbol” or “2 round probability variation symbol”, the “high probability state” will be maintained even after the jackpot game ends. Is continued (resumed). On the other hand, if the internal lottery is won in the “high probability state” and the above “15 round normal symbol” is met, the internal state returns to the normal probability state (low probability state) after the big hit game is over. Needless to say, if the internal lottery is won in the normal probability state and it falls under “15 round normal symbol”, the internal state is maintained in the normal probability state even after the big hit game ends.

[2 round normal design]
Alternatively, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the form of “two round normal symbol” in the previous special symbol stop display processing (steps S4000 and S4900), the normal state up to that time shifts to a short-term big hit gaming state. An opportunity occurs. However, since the 2-round jackpot game ends in an extremely short time compared to the 15-round jackpot game, there is almost no winning in the big winning opening. Therefore, the “two-round normal symbol” jackpot game is completed within a short period of time without giving a substantial play (prize ball) to the player. In addition, when the winning type corresponds to “two round normal symbol”, neither the “probability changing function” nor the “time shortening function” is activated after the big hit game ends. As a result, if the state before the big hit is the “high probability state”, the state is shifted to the “low probability state”, and if the state before the big hit is the “low probability state”, the “low probability state” is maintained. Is done. Such a “two-round normal symbol” has the significance of terminating the “high probability state”.

[Small hits]
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. That is, when the first special symbol or the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in the small hit state in the previous special symbol stop display processing (steps S4000, S4900), the small in the normal probability state or the high probability state. A winning game (a game in which the variable winning device 30 operates) is executed. In such a small winning game, the variable winning device 30 opens and closes a predetermined number of times (for example, twice), but hardly wins in the big winning opening as in the two-round big winning game. In addition, even if the small hit game ends, the “probability change function” does not operate, and the “time reduction function” does not operate, so it goes to the “high probability state” or “time reduction state”. The privilege to be transferred 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).

[Special symbol change pre-treatment]
FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the special symbol variation pre-processing. The contents of the special symbol change pre-processing described below can be common to the first special symbol game process (FIG. 16) and the second special symbol game process (FIG. 17). However, when the following procedure is applied to the first special symbol game process, the control target is the first special symbol, and when the following procedure is applied to the second special symbol game process, the control target is the second special symbol. To do. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along each procedure.

  Step S2100: First, the main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the special symbol operation memory number to be controlled (the first special symbol operation memory number or the second special symbol operation memory number) remains (greater than 0). Check. 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 the target symbol is 0 (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S2150.

  Step S2150: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the other special symbol operation memory number is zero. That is, if the object to be controlled is the first special symbol, it is confirmed whether or not the second special symbol operation memory number is 0. If the object to be controlled is the second special symbol, the first special symbol operation memory is stored. Check if the number is zero. This confirmation can also be performed with reference to the value of the special symbol operation memory number counter. If the other special symbol operation memory number is 0 (Yes), the main control CPU 72 executes the demonstration setting process of 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. 11). When the demo setting process is executed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game process. When returning, it returns to the end address as described above (and so on). If the other special symbol operation memory number is not 0 (step S2150: No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game process without executing the demo setting process.

  On the other hand, if the value of the special symbol operation memory number counter to be controlled is larger than 0 (step S2100: 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 reads out a lottery random number (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 special symbol to be controlled. 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. Each random number stored in the temporary storage area is used for internal lottery in the next jackpot determination process. Further, in this process, the main control CPU 72 subtracts one value of the working memory number counter (the first special symbol or the second special symbol, which is to be controlled) stored in the RAM 76, and the value after the subtraction. Is set to “Number of working memories at start of fluctuation”. Thereby, in the display output management process (step S210 in FIG. 11), the stored number is displayed for one of the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a or the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a to be controlled. The aspect changes (decreases by 1). 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 (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 loss) 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. 11).

  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 central bar). It is possible to fix the stop symbol number data to one value (for example, 64H) by keeping only the “−”) lighting display. 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 variation pattern number at the time of deviation for the special symbol to be controlled (variation pattern determination means). The variation pattern number is used to distinguish the variation display type (pattern) of the special symbol to be controlled 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 shortening 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 1.5 seconds to 4 seconds) Decision means). Even if not in the “time shortening state”, the fluctuation time at the time of losing is shortened 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. May be. 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. 19 is a diagram illustrating an example of the deviation variation pattern selection table.
This selection table is a table to be used at the time of loss (when not 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”.

  Fluctuation pattern numbers “1” to “5” correspond to fluctuation patterns that are out of reach without performing a reach effect, and fluctuation pattern numbers “6” to “8” are fluctuation patterns that are out of reach after reaching. It corresponds. Among these, for fluctuation patterns 7 and 8 (fluctuation pattern numbers “7” and “8”) (shaded portions in the figure), a relatively long fluctuation time (for example, 1 minute or more) is set. It is defined as a “specific variation pattern”. Note that such a variation pattern selection table is also used in the prior determination process of the effect determination process at the time of acquisition (FIG. 15) (the same applies to the big hit).

  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 “2” as the corresponding variation pattern number.

[See Figure 18: 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]
As described above, in this embodiment, there are four types of winning symbols that are selectively determined at the time of a big hit. The four types are “2-round normal symbol”, “2-round probability variable symbol”, “15 round normal symbol”, and “15 round probability variable symbol”. Note that each of the four types of winning symbols may further include a plurality of winning symbols. For example, in the case of “15 round probability variation symbol”, “15 round probability variation symbol a”, “15 round probability variation symbol b”, “15 round probability variation symbol c”, and so on.

In the present embodiment, the first special symbol and the second special symbol are different in the type of winning symbol selected at the time of the big winning of the internal lottery corresponding to each. That is, at the time of the big winning of the internal lottery corresponding to the first special symbol, any one of “2 round normal symbol”, “2 round probability variable symbol”, “15 round normal symbol”, and “15 round probability variable symbol” is selected.
On the other hand, at the time of the big winning of the internal lottery corresponding to the second special symbol, “15 round normal symbol” or “15 round probability variation symbol” is selected. For this reason, the main control CPU 72 distinguishes the objects that can be selected as the winning symbols depending on whether the control object from which the current big hit lottery result is the first special symbol or the second special symbol.

  FIG. 20 is a diagram showing a configuration column of the big hit stop symbol selection table for each of the first special symbol and the second special symbol. 20A is a first special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, and FIG. 20B is a second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table. Each will be described below.

[First Special Symbol Big Stop Stop Symbol Selection Table]
The main control CPU 72 refers to the first special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table shown in FIG. 20A when the control target for which the current big hit lottery result is obtained is the first special symbol. Determine the type of design.

  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 “10”, “20”, “50” is set to 100. Corresponds to the ratio of cases. In the second column from the left, “2-round normal symbol”, “2-round probability variation symbol”, “15 round normal symbol”, and “15 round probability variation symbol” corresponding to each distribution value are shown. That is, at the big hit corresponding to the first special symbol, the ratio of “2 round normal symbol” is 10/100 (= 10%), and the rate of “2 round probability variation symbol” is 100 minutes. 20 (= 20%). Further, the ratio of selecting “15 round normal symbol” is 20/100 (= 20%), and the ratio of selecting “15 round probability variable symbol” is 50/100 (= 50%). 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 70%.

  In any case, when the control target from which the current big hit lottery result is obtained is the first special symbol, the main control CPU 72 performs the selection lottery based on the big hit symbol random number and selects the first special symbol big hit stop symbol selection The winning symbol is selectively determined by the selection ratio shown in the table. 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 “00H”, “01H”, “02H”, and “03H” in the lower byte represent the types of winning symbols corresponding in the selection table. Therefore, for example, if the result of the big hit this time corresponds to the first special symbol, and “2 round normal symbol” is selected as the winning symbol, the stop symbol command at the time of winning is described as “B1H00H” 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.

[2nd special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table]
The main control CPU 72 refers to the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table shown in FIG. 20 (B) when the control target from which the current big lottery result is obtained is the second special symbol. Determine the type of winning symbol.

  Also in the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, the left column shows the distribution value by winning symbol, and each of the distribution values “30” and “70” is the case where the denominator is 100. It corresponds to the ratio. Similarly, in the second column from the left, “2 round normal symbol”, “2 round probability variable symbol”, “15 round normal symbol”, and “15 round probability variable symbol” corresponding to each distribution value are shown. . That is, at the big hit corresponding to the second special symbol, the ratio of “15 round normal symbol” is 30/100 (= 30%), and the proportion of “15 round probability variation symbol” is selected. It is 70/100 (= 70%). Therefore, also for the second special symbol, the selection ratio of the probability variation symbol as a whole is 70%. However, in the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, the distribution values for “2-round normal symbol” and “2-round probability variation symbol” are not set.

  When the control target from which the big hit lottery result is obtained is the second special symbol, the main control CPU 72 performs the selection lottery based on the big hit symbol random number, and the selection shown in the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table The winning symbol is selectively determined by the ratio. 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. Also, the EVENT values “02H” and “03H” in the lower byte represent the types of winning symbols corresponding to the selection table. For this reason, for example, if the result of this jackpot corresponds to the second special symbol, and “15 round normal symbol” is selected as the winning symbol, the stop symbol command will be described as “B2H02H”. .

  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.

  Note that the selected winning symbols are different between the first special symbol and the second special symbol as described above, for example, for the following reason. That is, when shifting to the “high probability state” or “time shortening state”, the variable start winning device 28 operates more frequently than in the normal time (when the time shortening function is not activated), so the second special symbol The working memory of is difficult to break. And if you exclude “2 rounds probable big hits” from the winning type for the second special symbol, it will be difficult to draw “2 rounds big wins” especially in the “high probability state” and “time reduction state”, so that There is an advantage that there is little annoyance to a person.

[See Figure 18: 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 determined variation time value in the variation timer, and sets the stop display time value 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 the present embodiment, when the result of the internal lottery corresponds to 15 round big hits (15 round normal big hit and 15 rounds probable big hit), for example, a “reach effect” is generated to control the big hit. . In the “15th round big hit winning variation pattern selection table”, a plurality of types of variation patterns corresponding to “reach production” are defined. A pattern will be selected. The reach production includes various reach production such as normal reach production, long reach production, super reach production, battle reach production, and the like.

[Example of the variation pattern selection table when winning 15 rounds big hit]
FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating an example of a variation pattern selection table at the time of winning 15 rounds.
This selection table is a table used when a 15-round jackpot is won (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, for variation patterns 17 to 20 (variation pattern numbers “17” to “20”) (shaded portions in the figure), a relatively long variation time (for example, 1 minute or more) is set. It is defined as a “specific variation pattern”.

  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.

[See Figure 18: 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 or not the game state flag is selected regardless of whether the winning symbol type (big hit stop symbol number) determined in the previous step S2410 is “2 round probability variation symbol” or “15 round probability variation symbol”. As a result, the value (01H) of the probability variation function activation flag is set in the flag area of the RAM 76 (high probability state transition means, probability variation function activation means). Further, when the type of winning symbol determined in the previous step S2410 is “15 round normal symbol”, the main control CPU 72 resets the value of the probability variation function operation flag as a gaming state flag (low probability state setting means, Low probability state transition means).

  In addition, the main control CPU 72 selects all the winning symbols whose types of winning symbols determined in the previous step S2410 (successful symbol number at the time of big hit) are “15 round normal symbol”, “15 round probability variable symbol”, and “2 round probability variable symbol”. The main control CPU 72 sets the time shortening function operation flag value (01H) as a game state flag in the flag area of the RAM 76 (time shortening state transition means, time shortening function operation means).

  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 determination 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.

[FIGS. 16 and 17: special symbol changing process, special symbol stop display process]
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. The main control CPU 72 refers to the value of the timer counter and controls the change display of the special symbol (first special symbol or second special symbol) to be controlled 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 (steps S2404, S2407, and S2410 in FIG. 18). 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 special symbol to be controlled (the first special symbol or the second special symbol) is greater than “0” in the previous special symbol fluctuation pre-processing (step in FIG. 18) S2100: Yes), the main control CPU 72 executes this special symbol storage area shift process. Similarly, the contents of the special symbol storage area shift processing can be made common to the first special symbol game processing (FIG. 16) and the second special symbol game processing (FIG. 17). However, when the following procedure is applied to the first special symbol game process, the control target is the first special symbol, and when the following procedure is applied to the second special symbol game process, the control target is the second special symbol. To do. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along each procedure.

  Step S2210: First, the main control CPU 72 shifts the random number storage area of the RAM 76 corresponding to the special symbol to be controlled. The details of the specific processing are as already described in the previous special symbol change pre-processing.

  Step S2212: The main control CPU 72 subtracts the value of the operation memory counter for the special symbol to be controlled. For example, if the special symbol to be controlled is the first special symbol, the main control CPU 72 subtracts (-1) the value of the working memory counter corresponding to the first special symbol, and the special symbol to be controlled is the second special symbol. If so, the main control CPU 72 subtracts (-1) the value of the working memory counter corresponding to the second special symbol.

  Step S2214: Next, the main control CPU 72 sets the “number of operating memories at the start of change” for the special symbol to be controlled from the value of the operating memory counter after the subtraction. Here, the “actual memory number at the start of change” may be set after adding the values of the operation memory counters of the first special symbol and the second special symbol.

  Step S2216: Further, the main control CPU 72 sets an effect command for reducing the number of working memories regarding the special symbol to be controlled. 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 preceding value (for example, “BBH”) indicating the command type, and the lower byte value (for example, “00H” to “03H” indicating the number of working memories after the decrease )) 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 “BBH” is a value indicating that the current effect command is the working memory number command for the first special symbol. If the control target is the second special symbol, the preceding value is a value (for example, “BCH”) indicating that it is a working memory number command for the second special symbol.

Step S2218: The main control CPU 72 executes effect command output processing. This process is for transmitting an effect command for reducing the number of working memories for the special symbol to be controlled set in the previous step S2216 to the effect control device 124 (memory number notifying means).
When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol variation pre-processing (FIG. 18).

[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. The contents of the special symbol stop display processing described below can also be made common in the first special symbol game process (FIG. 16) and the second special symbol game process (FIG. 17). That is, when the following procedure is applied to the first special symbol game process, the control target is the first special symbol, and when it is applied to the second special symbol game process, the control target is the second special symbol.

  Step S4100: The main control CPU 72 subtracts the value of the stop symbol display timer for the special symbol to be controlled (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, and jumps from the execution selection process (step S1000 in FIG. 16) 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 for the special symbol to be controlled. The symbol stop command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process. Further, the main control CPU 72 deletes the symbol changing flag here.

  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 for the special symbol to be controlled to “variable winning device management processing”.
Step S4400: The main control CPU 72 sets “start of big role (during big hit game)” as an internal state flag for control of the special symbol to be controlled. At the same time, the main control CPU 72 generates a status command indicating that the jackpot for the special symbol to be controlled. 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 jackpot symbol (stop symbol number) determined in the previous jackpot stop symbol determination process (step S2410 in FIG. 18). For example, if the type of jackpot symbol is any one of “15 round probability variation symbols”, the continuous operation number command is generated as a value representing “15 rounds”. In the case of “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 a deviation (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: The main control CPU 72 sets “small hit start (during small hit)” as an internal state flag for control for the special symbol to be controlled. At the same time, the main control CPU 72 generates a state command indicating that the special symbol to be controlled is small hit. The state command representing the small hit is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process.

  Step 4610: Next, the main control CPU 72 loads the value of the count-down 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 this case, “number of times cut” is used, but the value of the number of times counter in the “high probability state” can be set to an extremely large value (for example, 10,000 times or more). By setting such an enormous value, it is possible to probabilistically guarantee that the “high probability state” will continue until the next winning is substantially obtained. In addition, when there is only a single “time reduction state” instead of the “high probability state”, the count-off counter is set to a standard numerical value (for example, 100 times). The number cut counter can be set in common for the first special symbol and the second special symbol.

  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: Then, 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. The probability variable function operation flag or the time shortening function operation flag is reset, but since the value of the count counter is not zero in the “high probability state” as described above, it is practical. It is the time reduction function activation flag that is reset above. As a result, the time reduction state ends after 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. 11) 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 38c and the time reduction state display lamp 38d, 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 38c. Note that the probability variation state display lamp 38c is switched to non-display (turned off) even if the probability variation function operation flag is set when the variation display of the special symbol is performed thereafter. 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 38d regardless of whether or not the power is turned on. Is output.

  The main control CPU 72 controls lighting of the big hit type display lamps 38a and 38b in the continuous operation number display setting process. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal for one of the big hit type display lamps 38a and 38b based on the value of the above-mentioned continuous operation number command. At this time, one of the display lamps 38a and 38b corresponding to the big hit symbol designated by the continuous operation number command is the target of outputting the lighting signal. For example, if the value of the continuous operation number command specifies “15 rounds”, the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the lamp 38b representing “15 rounds (15R)”. If the value of the continuous operation number command 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 destination 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). The opening pattern for each winning symbol is the same as described in the item “plural winning types” in the special symbol game process (FIG. 16). Further, the interval time between rounds is set to, for example, about 2 seconds for the “2 round symbol” and about several seconds (for example, 2 to 2.5 seconds) for the “15 round symbol”. In addition, the number of counts in one round (maximum number of winnings) is 9 for all winning symbols, for example, but as mentioned above, winnings occur during an extremely short time (about 0.1 seconds). Is very rare (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. 18). Specifically, if the large category “15 round symbol” is selected as the winning symbol, the main control CPU 72 sets the number of execution rounds to 15 times. If “2 round symbols” 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, “14” for 15 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: Then, 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 hitting release timer, and during such an opening time, there is hardly any winning in the big winning opening during one opening. It becomes a short time (becomes difficult) (for example, a time shorter than 1 second, preferably a time shorter than the interval between game balls fired by the launching device 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. Then, the main control CPU 72 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. It should be noted that since the release timer value is set for a short time for both the first hit and the second round release of the “two-round probability variation symbol” at the small hit, the main control CPU 72 normally performs step S5310. In most cases, it is determined in step S5306 that the opening time has ended before confirming that the count number has reached the predetermined number.

  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.

  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: Then, 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. Thereby, the opening / closing operation of the variable winning device 30 is continuously executed until the actual round number reaches the set execution round number (2 times or 15 times).

  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: Then, 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: Then, 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: Then, 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.

Step S5505: The main control CPU 72 deletes the continuous operation number command here.
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. 18) during the previous special symbol fluctuation pre-process.

  Step S5508: When the value of the probability variation function operation flag is set (step S5506: Yes), the main control CPU 72 sets the probability variation number (for example, about 10,000 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. However, if a huge number of times such as 10,000 is set as described above, there is almost no chance that the non-winning will continue so far (the winning probability at the time of high probability is, for example, 1/39 to 1/39) The degree of probability) will continue until the next winning. On the other hand, when a substantial upper limit is set in the high probability state, the probability variation number is set to a realistic number (for example, about 10 times) (so-called number cut probability change). 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.

  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. 18) during the previous special symbol fluctuation pre-processing.

  Step S5512: If the value of the time reduction function operation flag (variable time reduction function operation flag) is set (step S5510: Yes), the main control CPU 72 determines the number of time reductions (for example, about 100 times or about 10,000 times). Set. 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: 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. In the case of small hits, the internal condition device does not operate in particular, so such a procedure is merely for the purpose of erasing the flag.

  Step S5516: In any case, 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. 16) 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. (Symbol display means, first symbol display means, second symbol display means). However, since the first special symbol and the second special symbol itself are lit and blinking display by 7-segment LED, the appealing power is not good. Therefore, in the pachinko machine 1, a variable display effect using the effect symbols respectively corresponding to the first special symbol and the second special symbol is performed.

  FIG. 30 is a continuous diagram showing an example of the effect image corresponding to the single variation display and stop display of the first special symbol. Note that here, an example of the change display effect and the stop display effect performed using the mini effect symbol corresponding to the change of the first special symbol that is performed at the time of non-winning (off) is shown. This variable display effect corresponds to a series of effects performed from when the first special symbol starts variable display to when it is stopped and displayed (including fixed stop). In addition, the stop display effect is an effect that represents that the first special symbol is stopped and displayed and the result of the internal lottery at that time is a combination of the mini effect symbols. Here, first, before explaining the specific contents of the control processing, the basic flow of individual variation display effects and stop display effects for each variation employed in the present embodiment will be described.

[Mini production design]
The mini effect symbol (first effect image) corresponding to the first special symbol includes, for example, a left effect symbol, a middle effect symbol, and a right effect symbol, which are included in the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42. Three are displayed side by side in the upper left corner position. Similarly, a mini effect design (second effect image) corresponding to the second special design includes a left effect design, a middle effect design, and a right effect design, which are located at the upper right corner position in the display screen. Three are displayed side by side.

  In addition, the left, middle and right mini effects are all displayed with a picture card representing a single number in the stop display state. A symbol sequence in which “1” to “9” are arranged in order is potentially configured. Such a symbol sequence is manifested during the variable display, and is displayed in a variable manner so as to flow (scroll) in the vertical direction at the upper left corner position or the upper right corner position in the display screen. Here, for the sake of convenience, the mini effect symbol corresponding to the first special symbol is indicated by white characters, and the mini effect symbol corresponding to the second special symbol is indicated by black characters.

  Further, in the display screen, an image (background image) that is the background of the above-described mini effect design is displayed in a state where it can be easily seen. 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.

[Before change display]
FIG. 30 (A): For example, in the state before the first special symbol and the second special symbol (the state where the demonstration is not in effect), the left corner position and the right corner position in the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42 are Three mini effect symbols are displayed. At this time, in accordance with the stop display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol, the corresponding mini effect symbols are also stopped and displayed.

  In the lower part of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42, a strip-like lower display area X1 (first display area) and a circular changing display area X2 (second display area) are arranged. Of these, the lower display area X1 extends in a strip shape from end to end along the lower edge of the display screen. Further, the changing display area X2 is arranged at a central position (a central position at the lower part of the screen) in the longitudinal direction of the lower display area X1.

  Although not shown in FIG. 30, in the lower display area X1, among the markers (represented by reference numerals M1 and M2 in the figure) indicating the number of working memories of the first special symbol and the second special symbol, they are still A waiting item that is not used for fluctuation (so-called hold) is displayed. These markers M1 and M2 (stored display images) are the number of working memories of the first special symbol and the second special symbol corresponding to the respective display numbers (first special symbol working memory lamp 34a, second special symbol working 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. The markers M1 and M2 displayed in the lower display area X1 will be described later.

  Further, while the first special symbol or the second special symbol is variably displayed in the changing display area X2, markers M1 and M2 (stored display images) corresponding to the operation memory used (consumed) for each change are displayed. Is displayed. The markers M1 and M2 displayed in the changing display area X2 will be described later.

  In addition, two fourth symbols (indicated by reference numerals Z1 and Z2 in the figure) are displayed side by side at the right end position of the lower display area X1. These fourth symbols Z1 and Z2 are “fourth effect symbols” following the corresponding three mini effect symbols, and are displayed in a synchronized manner during the variable display of the corresponding mini effect symbols. The fourth symbols Z1 and Z2 are simply simple colors (for example, “□” figure) with a color, and for example, changing the display color can express a variable display. Of these, 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 deviation. This is to objectively clarify that the result display effect is correctly performed and the pachinko machine 1 is operating normally. Therefore, if the result of the internal lottery is actually “2 round big hit” or “15 round big hit” instead of “out of”, the 4th pattern is displayed in a manner corresponding to them (for example, red display color or green display color). Z1 and Z2 are stopped and displayed.

[First special symbol start prize (right prize to the right start prize opening 26)]
FIG. 30 (B): For example, when both the first special symbol and the second special symbol are awarded to the right start winning opening 26 from the state where the number of working memories is 0, the changing display area X2 The marker M1 (memory display image, first memory display image) corresponding to the operation memory of the first special symbol is newly lit and displayed (memory display effect execution means, first memory display effect execution means). In this example, the marker M1 is displayed as a left half-moon shaped symbol.

[1st special symbol change display]
In FIG. 30, (C): With the occurrence of a winning at the right start winning opening 26, an internal lottery is performed and the variable display of the first special symbol is started. During the variable display of the first special symbol, the mini effect symbol corresponding to the first special symbol is changed by scrolling at the upper left corner position in the display screen as described above. At this time, in the left, middle, and right mini effect symbols, the above-described symbol sequence is made apparent to some extent. Here, for convenience, all the mini effect symbols that are changing are indicated by downward arrows.

  Further, the fourth symbol Z1 corresponding to the first special symbol is also displayed in a changing manner. In this example, the first special symbol is changing by changing the display color of the fourth symbol Z1 at high speed.

  Furthermore, in the changing display area X2, a state in which the image of the marker M1 is gradually reduced is expressed. In this example, the animation is expressed as if the month that was initially the left half-moon gradually disappears with the lapse of the variation time. Thus, by changing the display mode of the marker M1 with the passage of the variation time, it is possible to express effectively that the variation time of the first special symbol gradually decreases.

  In FIG. 30, (D): When the variation display of the first special symbol is approaching the end, and the variation time becomes short, the left and right mini effect symbols that have been scrolling variation until then stop. In this example, the left mini effect design representing the number “2” and the right mini effect design representing the number “6” are stopped. The inside mini-design is still changing. The fourth symbol Z1 is also displayed in a still changing manner.

  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 (names are examples) are excluded. “Slip pattern” means, for example, that once the right effect design representing the number “1” stops, the design sequence stops and the right effect design representing the number “2” stops, thereby developing a reach state. It is to do. Or, once the right effect design representing the number “3” stops, the design sequence slips backward by one design (rewinds), and the effect design representing the number “2” stops. There is also a pattern that develops to reach through. In addition, for example, when the right effect design symbol such as “8” is temporarily stopped and then the right effect design sequence is changed again at high speed, the effect design representing the number “2” is stopped again. There is also a pattern of developing into a reach state. Alternatively, the left effect design and the right effect design seem to stop, but after another hidden design image (for example, a character representing “chance” etc.) is displayed so as to obscure those numbers, There is also a pattern in which the hidden picture image is removed and the left and right effect designs are disclosed, thereby developing into a reach state.

  As the remaining fluctuation time decreases, the marker M1 is displayed in an extremely small state in the changing display area X2. Thereby, it can be transmitted to the player that the variation time of the first special symbol has been reduced.

[First special symbol stop display]
In FIG. 30, (E): All three mini effect symbols are stopped and displayed at the upper left corner position in the display screen substantially in synchronization with the stop display of the first special symbol. In this example, since the combination of the three mini effect symbols is “2”-“5”-“6”, the fact that the current variation of the first special symbol corresponds to the normal “out” is effected. Expressed above. Further, the fourth symbol Z1 is also stopped and displayed in a mode (for example, white display color) corresponding to the deviation.

  In addition, the marker M1 that has been displayed in the changing display area X2 until then is deleted when the change ends. Thus, it is possible to clearly tell the player that the variation display of the first special symbol has ended.

  Next, FIG. 31 is a continuous diagram showing an example of the effect image corresponding to the single variable display and stop display of the second special symbol. Here again, an example of the change display effect and the stop display effect performed using the mini effect symbol corresponding to the change of the second special symbol performed at the time of non-winning (out) is shown. That is, this variable display effect corresponds to a series of effects performed between the time when the second special symbol starts variable display and the time when the second special symbol is stopped and displayed (including a fixed stop). The stop display effect is an effect representing the combination of the mini special effect symbol and the result of the internal lottery when the second special symbol is stopped and displayed.

[2nd special symbol start prize (winning to the left start prize opening 28a)]
In FIG. 31, (F): For example, when both the first special symbol and the second special symbol are awarded to the left start winning port 28a from the state where the number of operating memories is 0, the changing display area X2 The marker M2 (memory display image, second memory display image) corresponding to the operation memory of the second special symbol is newly lit and displayed (memory display effect executing means, second memory display effect executing means). In this example, the marker M2 is displayed as a right half-moon-shaped symbol, but the marker M1 is shown in black to be distinguished from the marker M1.

[2nd special symbol change display]
In FIG. 31, (G): In accordance with the winning at the left start winning opening 28a, an internal lottery is performed, and the variation display of the second special symbol is started. During the change display of the second special symbol, the mini effect symbol corresponding to this changes as if scrolling at the upper right corner position in the display screen as described above. In the same manner, the above-mentioned symbol sequence is made apparent to some extent in the left, middle, and right mini effect symbols, but for convenience, all the mini effect symbols that are changing are indicated by downward arrows.

  Further, the fourth symbol Z2 corresponding to the second special symbol is also displayed in a changing manner. In this example as well, the second special symbol is changing by changing the display color of the fourth symbol Z2 at high speed.

  Further, in the changing display area X2, a state in which the image of the marker M2 is gradually reduced is expressed. Similarly to the above, the animation is expressed as if the month which was the first right half moon gradually disappears with the passage of the fluctuation time. Thus, by changing the display mode of the marker M2 with the passage of the variation time, it is possible to express effectively that the variation time of the second special symbol gradually decreases.

  In FIG. 31, (H): When the variation display of the second special symbol is approaching the end, and the variation time becomes short, the left and right mini effect symbols that have been scroll-variable until then stop. In this example, the left mini effect design representing the number “1” and the right mini effect design representing the number “8” are stopped. The inside mini-design is still changing. The fourth symbol Z2 is also displayed in a still changing manner.

  As the remaining fluctuation time decreases, the marker M2 is displayed in an extremely small state in the changing display area X2. Thereby, it can be transmitted to the player that the variation time of the second special symbol has decreased.

[Second special symbol stop display]
In FIG. 31, (I): All three mini effect symbols are stopped and displayed at the upper right corner position in the display screen substantially in synchronization with the stop display of the second special symbol. In this example, since the combination of the three mini-design symbols is a gap between “1”-“2”-“8”, it is produced that the current variation corresponds to the normal “miss” for the second special symbol. Expressed above. Further, the fourth symbol Z2 is also stopped and displayed in a mode (for example, white display color) corresponding to the deviation.

  In addition, the marker M2 that has been displayed in the changing display area X2 until then is deleted when the change ends. Thus, it is possible to clearly tell the player that the variation display of the second special symbol has ended.

[Summary of individual production]
As described above, when the first special symbol and the second special symbol are variably displayed independently in different time zones, in this embodiment, individual variable display effects and stop displays using the corresponding mini effect symbols. Production is performed (design production execution means). Accordingly, it is possible to clearly tell the player that the first special symbol or the second special symbol has been variably displayed independently.

[Change of marker display form]
In addition, as shown in FIGS. 30 and 31, in this embodiment, when either the first special symbol or the second special symbol is variably displayed, the corresponding markers M1 and M2 are changing. An effect is displayed that is displayed in the display area X2 and changes the display form of the markers M1 and M2 in accordance with the degree of progress of the change (stored display form change effect executing means). As a result, the player is instructed on the stage of the change display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol and the degree of progress of the change display effect using the mini effect symbol (to what extent the change is progressing). can do.

  Of course, even in the variable display effect with the left, middle, and right mini effects, the left mini effect and the right mini effects can be stopped and displayed, and the degree of progress up to the present can be taught on the effect. In addition, the present embodiment is characterized in that the degree of progress of the variable display is taught from another viewpoint using the markers M1 and M2 different from the mini effect symbols. Therefore, the relationship between the progress of the variable display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol and the change in the display form of the markers M1 and M2 will be described more specifically below.

  FIG. 32 is a diagram showing the relationship between the change in the display form of the marker M1 performed on the production and the remaining variation time of the first special symbol. 32A shows the change in the display form of the marker M1, and FIG. 32B shows the remaining time of the variation timer. Note that the remaining time of the variation timer decreases in accordance with the elapsed time after the start of variation display, and the remaining time becomes zero when all the variation time has elapsed.

  FIG. 32C also shows the variation display and stop display modes of the first special symbol (7-segment LED blinking) by the first special symbol display device 34.

[At the start of fluctuation]
As shown in the leftmost position in FIG. 32A, at the first special symbol variation start timing (for example, elapsed time = 0), the marker M1 varies with the initial size (maximum). It is displayed in the middle display area X2. Further, as shown in FIG. 32B, the remaining time of the variation timer is the maximum (Tmax) at this timing.
Note that, as shown in the leftmost position in FIG. 32C, at this timing, the first special symbol (display mode by the first special symbol display device 34) is exactly due to the blinking of the central bar segment “-”. You are in a situation where you are about to start a variable display. The second special symbol (second special symbol display device 35) is stopped and displayed in a non-winning manner, for example.

[Displaying fluctuations]
Thereafter, when the variation display of the first special symbol proceeds, as shown in FIG. 32B, the remaining time of the variation timer gradually decreases. As shown in FIG. 32A, the display form of the marker M1 gradually changes according to the progress (situation) of the variable display of the first special symbol.
Also, as shown in FIG. 32C, the first special symbol display by the first special symbol display device 34 is advanced by, for example, blinking display of the central bar segment “-” (second special symbol display). The pattern is waiting for change).

[Immediately before the end of change]
As shown in the second position from the right end of (A) in FIG. 32, at the timing immediately before the first special symbol is stopped and displayed (for example, the remaining time of the variation timer is about 1 second), the display during variation is displayed. In the region X2, the marker M1 is displayed extremely small (minimized) compared to the initial size.

[At the end of change (when stopped)]
Then, as shown in the right end positions of (A) and (B) in FIG. 32, at the timing when the first special symbol is stopped and displayed (for example, the remaining time of the variation timer = 0), the during-variation display region X2 The marker M1 is not displayed (erased).
Note that, as shown in FIG. 32C, the first special symbol display device 34 displays the central bar segment “-” in a lit state and stops the first special symbol.

  Here, the marker M1 corresponding to the first special symbol is taken as an example, but the same applies to the marker M2 corresponding to the second special symbol.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, during the variation display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol, by performing the effect of changing the display form of the corresponding markers M1, M2 in the variation display area X2, respectively. From the state of the change, it is easy to visually recognize the progress degree (situation) of the variable display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol and can be taught to the player.

  In addition, as described above, the markers M1 and M2 corresponding to the operation memory waiting for change (standby) are displayed in the lower display area X1, and the marker corresponding to the operation memory used (consumed) for the internal lottery from there. Since M1 and M2 are moved to the changing display area X2 and the display form is changed, the meaning (meaning) of the markers M1 and M2 displayed in the display areas X1 and X2 is indicated to the player. It can be communicated in an easy-to-understand manner. That is, since the display form does not change in the markers M1 and M2 displayed in the lower display area X1, the player can clearly be informed of the current number of operating memories by the number of displayed markers M1 and M2. . On the other hand, since the display forms of the markers M1 and M2 moved from the lower display area X1 to the changing display area X2 change with time, the working memory waiting for change is reliably used for internal lottery ( The player can be informed that it has been consumed.

[Improvement of playability as the marker display changes]
According to the present embodiment, for example, it is possible to realize the following improvement in game playability.
(1) Let the player intuitively recognize how much the fluctuation time has elapsed (how much the remaining fluctuation time is) by the display form (current size) of the markers M1 and M2. Therefore, for example, it can be used as a guideline for determination, for example, “Since the current fluctuation display is almost over, let's generate (increase) the next working memory”.

(2) It is possible to make the player infer how long the current variation time is set from the state of change in the size of the markers M1 and M2 (for example, the speed at which the markers M1 and M2 become smaller). For example, when the speed at which the markers M1 and M2 decrease is relatively fast, a prediction that “the current variation time is relatively short = not reach variation” holds. On the other hand, when the speed at which the markers M1 and M2 decrease is relatively slow, a prediction that “the current variation time is relatively long = there is a possibility of reach variation” holds. As a result, the expectation is estimated from factors different from the reach effect by the notice effect or the mini effect design, and the player's judgment in proceeding with the future game (the working memory is increased according to the reach fluctuation or non-reach fluctuation) To determine whether or not to maintain the current situation).

(3) It is possible to determine whether or not the current variation display is performed from an element different from the mini effect symbol and the special symbol (7-segment LED). For example, a player who is skilled in playing a game to some extent can play a game while viewing the display mode of the first special symbol display device 34 and the second special symbol display device 35 without looking at the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42. In addition to such a game style, a new style is selected in which a game is played while visually recognizing the markers M1 and M2 displayed in the lower center of the display screen (display area X2 during change). be able to.

  As described above, changing the display form of the markers M1 and M2 greatly expands the range of game play, and can provide more diverse entertainment.

[Example of production during parallel fluctuations]
Next, a description will be given of an effect example that is executed when the variation display of the first special symbol and the variation display of the second special symbol are performed in parallel with each other.
FIG. 33 is a continuous diagram showing the flow of effects performed when, for example, the variation display of the second special symbol is started and the parallel variation occurs during the variation display of the first special symbol. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along the flow of production.

[1st special symbol change display]
In FIG. 33 (i): For example, a case is assumed in which the first special symbol is being displayed in a variable manner. At this time, in the upper left corner position in the display screen, the variable display effect by the above-described mini effect symbol is performed. In addition, for the fourth symbol Z1 and the marker M1, the effect display is performed in the changing manner.

[2nd special symbol start prize (winning to the left start prize opening 28a)]
In FIG. 33 (ii): It is assumed that a new winning at the left start winning opening 28a occurs at this time. That is, when a winning to the left start winning opening 28a occurs from the state where the number of working memories of the second special symbol is 0, the marker M2 corresponding to the working memory of the second special symbol within the changing display area X2 (the first 2 storage display images) are newly lit up. Up to this point, it is almost the same as the example of the individual effects described above, but since parallel fluctuations occur from here, the following effect modes will change greatly.

[Coalition production during parallel movement]
In FIG. 33 (iii): With the start of variation of the second special symbol, the variation display of the first special symbol and the variation display of the second special symbol are performed in parallel with each other. Along with this, the mini effect symbols that were displayed separately at the upper left corner position and the upper right corner position in the display screen are merged into one, and an effect that changes to an expanded merge effect image (merged effect image) is performed. Is called. The combined effect symbol comprises three symbol sequences of left, middle, and right, and is variably displayed by scrolling (flowing) vertically in the left, middle, and right regions of the display screen, respectively. (Design effect execution means).

[Coalition effect image]
At this time, the combined effect design is such that, for example, white characters and black characters are combined into one, and each number is expressed in black and white two-tone colors with the diagonal line of the picture card sandwiched between them. ing. By executing such a variable display effect using a combined effect design, it gives a strong impact on the player, and it feels as if an advantageous situation has occurred on the effect (deal Feeling).

[Combined memory display image]
Further, in the changing display area X2, the marker M1 that has been getting smaller and the newly added marker M2 are merged into one, and a two-color figure is displayed in two colors of black and white. It is an aspect. As described above, by executing the variable display effect using the combined memory display image in which the two markers M1 and M2 are combined, an apparent impact is strongly given to the player, which is advantageous in the effect. It is possible to have a feeling (dealing feeling) as if a special situation is occurring.

  Note that during the variable display effect using the combined storage display image, the effect of changing the display form of the markers M1 and M2 is not performed. This is to prevent the apparent impact on the player from being hindered and to give priority to an effect that makes it appear as if an advantageous situation has occurred. Thereby, the effect of the production | presentation using the unification effect design and the union memory display image can be exhibited to the maximum.

[Special background image]
In FIG. 33 (iv): Thereafter, when the combined effect symbols are scrolled faster, the individual combined effect symbols are displayed in a transparent state. At this time, a special background image peculiar to the parallel change is displayed in the display screen. In this example, for example, a special background image is used that represents a state where the previous female character is a close-up and smiles with a fan. By displaying such a special background image, it is possible to enhance the visual appeal given to the player from the entire display screen, and to emphasize the impression that an advantageous situation is also occurring in the production. .

[When parallel fluctuation ends]
Next, FIG. 34 is a continuous diagram showing the flow of effects that are executed when the variation display of the first special symbol is finished first from the previous parallel variation state.

[First special symbol change end, second special symbol change in progress]
In FIG. 34, (v): Synchronously with the end of change (stop display) of the first special symbol, the united effect symbol which has become one until then splits and returns to the original mini effect symbol. At this time, the stop display effect by the corresponding mini effect design is performed about the 1st special design which ended the change. It should be noted that the combination of the mini effect symbols is the difference between the numbers “4”-“1”-“5”, and that the result of the internal lottery corresponding to the first special symbol this time was not won. Taught. Similarly, the fourth symbol Z1 is stopped and displayed in a non-winning manner.

  On the other hand, for the second special symbol that is changing, the variable display effect is continuously performed by the corresponding mini effect symbol. The corresponding fourth symbol Z2 is also displayed in a changing manner.

  Further, in the display area X2 during change, the memory display image that has been merged into one is divided and returned to the original, and the display of the marker M1 disappears for the first special symbol that has ended change. On the other hand, the marker M2 corresponding to the changing second special symbol is continuously displayed in a manner representing the remaining changing time.

  In this way, when the parallel variation state is resolved, by dividing the merged effect symbols and the merged markers M1 and M2 so far and returning them to the original state, it is possible for the player to change in parallel due to two special symbols. It can be clearly taught that the display has been eliminated. Further, for the second special symbol that is still being displayed in a variable manner, by displaying the corresponding mini effect symbol or the marker M2 during the change, the fact that the second special symbol is being displayed in a correct manner is displayed on the effect. be able to.

  Also, as shown in FIG. 34 (v), at this time, the display form of the marker M2 is set to a size corresponding to the remaining time (elapsed time from the start of change) of the change timer of the second special symbol. ing. That is, when the memory display image that has been merged into one is split, a certain amount of fluctuation time has already passed for the second special symbol, and the display form of the marker M2 at the time of splitting remains from there. The size is displayed according to the time. Thereby, it is possible to clearly teach the player the degree of progress (situation) of the variation related to the second special symbol, and to continue to exhibit the above-described game characteristics.

  In FIG. 34 (vi): After that, when the variation display of the second special symbol is approaching the end, and the variation time becomes less, the left and right mini effect symbols that have been scrolled up to that point are stopped. In this example, the left mini effect symbol representing the number “9” and the right mini effect symbol representing the number “6” are stopped. The inside mini-design is still changing. The fourth symbol Z2 is also displayed in a still changing manner.

  As the remaining fluctuation time decreases, the marker M2 is displayed in an extremely small state in the changing display area X2. Thereby, it is possible to transmit on the effect that the variation time of the second special symbol after the parallel variation has been eliminated is reduced.

[Second special symbol stop display]
In FIG. 34 (vii): All three mini effect symbols are stopped and displayed at the upper right corner position in the display screen substantially in synchronization with the stop display of the second special symbol. In this example, since the combination of the three mini-design symbols is a gap between the numbers “9”-“5”-“6”, this variation also corresponds to the normal “out of” for the second special symbol. This is expressed in the production. Further, the fourth symbol Z2 is also stopped and displayed in a mode (for example, white display color) corresponding to the deviation.

  In addition, the marker M2 that has been displayed in the changing display area X2 until then is deleted when the change ends. As a result, it is possible to clearly tell on the stage that the single variation display of the second special symbol after the parallel variation has been eliminated has ended.

  FIG. 35 is a continuous diagram showing the flow of effects executed when the first special symbol variation display is started and the parallel variation occurs during the second special symbol variation display, contrary to the above. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along the flow of production.

[During the display of the second special symbol variation, the first special symbol starting prize (winning to the right starting prize slot 26)]
FIG. 35 (A): For example, it is assumed that the second special symbol is being variably displayed first. At this time, in the upper right corner position in the display screen, a variable display effect using a mini effect symbol is performed. In addition, for the fourth symbol Z2 and the marker M2, the effect display is performed in the changing manner.

  At this time, when a winning to the right start winning opening 26 occurs when the number of working memories of the first special symbol is 0, the marker M1 corresponding to the working memory of the first special symbol in the changing display area X2 (First storage display image) is newly lit up. Thereby, since parallel fluctuation occurs from here, the following effects are greatly changed.

[Coalition production during parallel movement]
FIG. 35 (B): With the start of variation of the first special symbol, the variation display of the second special symbol and the variation display of the first special symbol are performed in parallel with each other. Along with this, the mini effect symbols that were displayed separately at the upper left corner position and the upper right corner position in the display screen are merged into one, and an effect that changes to an expanded merge effect image (merged effect image) is performed. Is called. The contents of the combined effect design are the same as described above.

  Similarly, if the state of parallel variation is entered, a change display effect using a combined effect design is executed to give a strong impact to the player, as if an advantageous situation has occurred. A feeling like (dealing feeling) can be held.

  In the changing display area X2, the marker M2 that has been decreasing until now and the newly added marker M1 are combined into one, and a variable display effect using the combined storage display image similar to the above is provided. Executed. Accordingly, it is possible to give a strong impact to the player here, and to have a feeling (profit) as if an advantageous situation has occurred.

[Special background image]
In FIG. 35 (C): After this, when the combined effect symbols are scrolled faster, the individual combined effect symbols are displayed in a transparent state. At this time, the special background image is also displayed in the display screen. By displaying such a special background image, it is possible to enhance the visual appeal given to the player from the entire display screen, and to emphasize the impression that an advantageous situation is also occurring in the production. .

[Second special symbol change end, first special symbol change being displayed]
In FIG. 35 (D): In synchronism with the end of change (stop display) of the second special symbol, the united effect symbol that has become one until then splits and returns to the original mini effect symbol. At this time, for the second special symbol whose variation has ended, a stop display effect by the corresponding mini effect symbol is performed. In addition, the combination of the mini effect symbols is the difference between the numbers “2”-“5”-“9”, and the result of the internal lottery corresponding to the second special symbol this time was not won. Taught. Similarly, the fourth symbol Z2 is stopped and displayed in a non-winning manner.

  On the other hand, the fluctuating display effect is continuously performed with the corresponding mini effect symbol for the first special symbol that is changing. The corresponding fourth symbol Z1 is also displayed in a changing manner.

  Further, in the display area X2 during change, the memory display image that has been merged into one is divided and returned to the original, and the display of the marker M2 disappears for the second special symbol that has ended change. On the other hand, the marker M1 corresponding to the changing first special symbol is continuously displayed in a manner representing the remaining fluctuation time.

  In this way, the same effect is also executed when the first special symbol starts to change later after the second special symbol has changed first. And even if the second special symbol ends and the parallel variation state is resolved first, the player can divide the combined effect design and the combined markers M1 and M2 so far and return to the original state. On the other hand, it can be clearly taught that the parallel variation display by the two special symbols has been eliminated. Further, for the first special symbol that is still being displayed in a variable manner, the corresponding mini effect symbol or the marker M1 is displayed during the change, so that the fact that the first special symbol is being displayed in a variable manner is displayed on the effect. be able to.

  Also, as shown in FIG. 35D, the display form of the marker M1 at this time is also set to a size corresponding to the remaining time (elapsed time from the start of change) of the change timer of the first special symbol. Has been. Similarly, since a certain variation time has already passed for the first special symbol at the time when the stored display image that has been merged into one is split, the display form of the marker M1 at the time of splitting is as follows: From there, it is displayed in a size corresponding to the remaining time. Therefore, it is possible to clearly teach the player the degree of progress (situation) of the change related to the first special symbol, and to continue to exhibit the above-described game characteristics.

  Next, FIG. 36 is a continuous diagram showing an example of a memory display effect performed in accordance with an increase in the number of working memories during parallel fluctuations and the flow of the subsequent effects.

[Memory display effect during parallel fluctuations]
In FIG. 36 (A): First, a situation is assumed in which the variation display of the first special symbol and the variation display of the second special symbol are performed in parallel as described above. In this state, when the winning at the right start winning opening 26 and the winning at the left starting winning opening 28a occur repeatedly, the first special symbol working memory number and the second special symbol working memory number are respectively the maximum values ( Will increase to 4).

  In this example, the number of working memories for the first special symbol has increased to the maximum of four, whereby four markers M1 are displayed side by side on the left side of the changing display region X2 in the lower display region X1. ing. On the other hand, with respect to the second special symbol, the number of operating memories has increased to three, whereby three markers M2 are displayed side by side in the lower display area X1 on the right side of the changing display area X2.

  In this way, by executing the memory display effect using the markers M1 and M2 in accordance with the number of working memories increased during the parallel fluctuation, it is clear to what extent the number of memories is accumulated at the present time for the player. Can be taught.

  In addition, since the markers M1 and M2 representing the working memory used for the internal lottery corresponding to the current parallel fluctuation are displayed as the combined memory display image in the changing display area X2, it remains unchanged for the player. It is possible to clearly present the distinction between the working memory (waiting for change) and the working memory that is already changing.

[1st special symbol stop display, 2nd special symbol change display]
36 (B): Synchronously with the end of change (stop display) of the first special symbol, the united effect symbol that has become one until then splits and returns to the original mini effect symbol ("7 "-" 6 "-" 2 "gap). On the other hand, for the second special symbol that is changing, the variable display effect is continuously performed by the corresponding mini effect symbol. Similarly, the corresponding fourth symbol Z2 is also displayed in a changing manner.

  Similarly, in the changing display area X2, the memory display image that has been merged into one is divided and returned to the original, and the display of the marker M1 disappears for the first special symbol that has ended changing. ing. On the other hand, the marker M2 corresponding to the changing second special symbol is continuously displayed in a manner representing the remaining fluctuation time (the fluctuation timer remaining time). Thereby, the progress degree (situation) of the fluctuation related to the second special symbol can be clearly taught to the player even temporarily.

[Memory number display]
At this time, since the four markers M1 increased to the maximum number are displayed on the left side of the changing display area X2, the stop display time of the first special symbol (determined stop time = about 0.5 seconds) has elapsed. Then, the condition (starting condition) that can start the next variation display using the earliest working memory is satisfied. On the other hand, on the right side of the changing display area X2, up to four markers M2 are displayed according to the newly added operation memory.

[Memory shift display effect, combined effect during parallel change]
36 (C): As described above, when the first special symbol starts the next change by satisfying the start condition, the mini effect symbol changes to the coalescing effect symbol in the display screen, and as described above in parallel. A variable display effect is performed using the combined effect symbol during the change.

  Further, with the start of the next change of the first special symbol, an effect (memory shift effect) is performed in which the marker M1 representing the earliest working memory moves into the changing display area X2. Then, the moved marker M1 is combined with the marker M2 that has been present in the changing display area X2 before, and an effect that becomes one is performed. On the left side of the changing display area X2, an effect (memory shift effect) is performed in which the remaining three markers M1 move toward the center one by one.

  In FIG. 36 (D): Similarly, the background effect using the special background image is performed during the parallel variation.

[Directional change of medium and big hit hits]
FIG. 37 and FIG. 38 are continuous diagrams showing the flow of production until the big hit after the reach state occurs during parallel fluctuation. In this example, it is assumed that the result of the internal lottery corresponds to the winning for the first special symbol whose variation has started later. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along the flow of production.

[Preliminary production before reach (first stage)]
In FIG. 37 (E): Of the first special symbol and the second special symbol that fluctuate in parallel with each other, for example, when the winning result is obtained for the first special symbol as described above, the current parallel An effect pattern that is a big hit through a reach change effect during the change is selected. Along with this, first, a pre-reach notice effect is started. In this example, a design image representing a female character appears from the left edge of the display screen, and a pre-reach notice effect (first stage) is performed such that this design image crosses the display screen to the right. ing. In addition, since the winning to the next right start winning opening 26 has occurred during this time, the effect that the marker M1 is newly added is performed on the left side of the changing display area X2.

[Advance notice before the reach occurs (second stage)]
In FIG. 37 (F): Following the preceding pre-reach notice effect, this time a pre-reach notice effect that a picture image of another female character appears from the right end of the display screen and crosses leftward ( Second stage) is performed. At this time, an effect by sound output is also performed in which the character represented by the picture image emits a dialogue (for example, “I will reach you”). Such a pre-reach notice announcement 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.

[Preliminary notice before the reach (stage 3)]
In FIG. 37 (G): During the parallel change, the combined effect symbol is first stopped and displayed in the left symbol row. Then, another female character design image appears again from the left end of the display screen, and a pre-reach notice effect (third stage) is displayed that is enlarged and displayed at the center position of the screen. At this time, an effect is also performed in which the character represented by the picture image emits another dialogue (for example, “Prepare!”). In this way, if the change in the aspect of the notice effect before the reach occurs is advanced to more stages, there is a possibility that it will be a big hit with this change (to be exact, any of the special symbols that are changing in parallel) It is possible to suggest to the player that (expectation) is high.

[Occurrence of reach condition]
In FIG. 37 (H): The combined effect symbol is stopped and displayed in the right symbol row during parallel fluctuation. At this time, in the example of the left and right symbols, the combined effect symbols are arranged in the numbers “7” − (during variation) − “7”, so that a reach state occurs in the effect during the parallel variation. In addition, a radial flash image is displayed around the combined effect symbol that has reached the reach state, and a notice effect when a reach occurs is performed. At this time, the “Leach!” Voice or sound effect may be output from the speakers 54, 55, 56. By executing such a sensory and lively reach announcement effect at the time of occurrence of the reach, it is possible to obtain an effect of making the player have a greater sense of expectation.

[Second special symbol change end (reach is occurring)]
In FIG. 38 (I): Even if the reach state occurs during the parallel fluctuation, when the second special symbol finishes the fluctuation first (stop display), the parallel fluctuation is temporarily interrupted. At this time, the second special symbol is being stopped and displayed, and a stop display effect by the mini effect symbol is performed at the upper right corner position of the display screen according to the stop display mode of the second special symbol.

  However, the united effect design that has been in the reach state continues to be in the united state. This is because, since there is already one or more working memories for the second special symbol, it is clear in terms of control that the parallel change state is maintained after the stop display time has elapsed. And the marker M2 which was actually located on the right side of the changing display area X2 moves into the changing display area X2 (memory shift effect), and the effect of uniting again is performed.

  At this time, in the center position of the display screen, the combined effect design that has reached the reach state continues to be displayed in a swinging manner, and for example, an additional effect that displays character information such as “save hold and continue reach”! Is executed. At this time, sound may be output from the speakers 54, 55, and 56. In any case, by executing such additional effects, the player is motivated to continue to generate a winning game ball so as not to interrupt the working memory, and to motivate the game. Can be improved.

[Progress of reach production by resuming parallel fluctuation state]
In FIG. 38 (J): Reach effect using the coalesced effect image proceeds as the parallel variation state is resumed. In this example, for example, images representing the numbers “2” to “8” are displayed in a state of forming a three-dimensional column on the screen, and “2”, “3”, “4” from the top (front) of the column. “...” is performed in order of the number images being erased from the screen. Such an effect is performed for the purpose of suggesting (impliciting) or reminding the player that the number “7” remains without being erased. Also, if the number “6” is deleted and “7” remains in front of the screen, it is “probable big hit”, but if the number “7” is also deleted, it means “out of place”. In this case, for example, the number “8” is displayed on the screen after the number “7” 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 “5” is erased on the screen, then the next time the number “6” is erased, the possibility of a “probable big hit” will increase. Tension is also increased at a stretch.

  FIG. 38 (K): When the change display of the first special symbol that was in the parallel change state is finished and stopped, the reach effect by the combined effect design is also settled once and the stop display effect is performed. Specifically, since the current reach fluctuation corresponds to “big hit”, the number “6” is finally deleted, and an image representing the number “7” is displayed in the center of the display screen. . As a result, the player can be informed that “the current parallel fluctuation reach (internally, the fluctuation of the first special symbol) was a big hit”. At this time, the fourth symbol Z1 corresponding to the first special symbol is stopped and displayed in a mode (for example, red display) representing the probability big hit.

[Confirmed stop production]
In FIG. 38 (L): The coalescing effect symbol is also confirmed and stopped within the fixed stop time of the first special symbol. In this example, the left, middle, and right combined effect symbols are stopped and displayed at the center position of the display screen in a manner that represents a set of three numbers “7”-“7”-“7”.

  Thereafter, on the control by the main control CPU 72, the special game management status shifts to the big hit state with respect to the first special symbol, and the change display is held for the second special symbol which has been changed in parallel until then. .

[Summary of Reach Production by Coalition Production Design]
As described above, in the present embodiment, when one of the special symbols changing in parallel (the first special symbol in the above example) corresponds to a big win, the special effect using the combined effect design is used. Reach production is performed, and it grows as a big hit as it is. As a result, it is possible to give the player an impression as if the state of parallel variation has become advantageous in terms of performance. In addition, when a reach effect occurs during parallel fluctuations, in order to continue the reach effect with the combined effect pattern, a winning is made to the right start winning port 26 or the left start winning port 28a so that the working memory is not interrupted as much as possible. Motivation for things can be given and a positive attitude towards games can be maintained.

  Further, when the first special symbol or the second special symbol fluctuates independently, markers M1 and M2 representing the working memory used in the internal lottery corresponding to the current variation are displayed in the changing display area X2. Since the display form changes according to the degree of progress (situation) of the fluctuation at that time, the fluctuation display effect using the fluctuation display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol or the mini effect symbol for the player It is possible to easily recognize the degree of progress (situation). As a result, even in a situation where parallel fluctuations do not occur, it is possible to expand the range of game play based on a unique performance aspect, and a player's feeling of loss during a single fluctuation (opposite to profit feeling) Sensation).

  Next, an example of a control method for specifically realizing the above effects will be described. The above-described variable display effect using the individual effect symbol, the variable display effect using the coalescence effect symbol, the reach effect, the pre-reach notice effect, the memory number display effect, and the like are all controlled through the following control processing.

[Production control processing]
FIG. 39 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of effect control processing 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), first special symbol effect symbol management process (step S402), second special symbol effect symbol management process (step S403), display. This includes a subroutine group of output processing (step S404), lamp driving processing (step S406), acoustic driving 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 tone control command, demonstration effect command, lottery result command, variation pattern command, variation start command, stop symbol command, symbol stop command, state designation command, number of rounds command, error notification command, jackpot end effect command, variation pattern There are destination judgment commands and the like. Of these, commands related to special symbols are transmitted separately for the first special symbol and the second special symbol.

  Step S401: In the operation memory effect management process, the effect control CPU 126 controls the execution of the memory number display effect and the memory display effect using the markers M1 and M2. In this process, control is performed to change the display form of the markers M1 and M2 in the changing display area X2. The contents of the working memory effect management process will be further described later with reference to another drawing.

  Step S402: In the first special symbol effect symbol management process, the effect control CPU 126 controls the contents of the variable display effect and the result display effect using the mini effect symbol corresponding to the first special symbol, and opens and closes the variable winning device 30. Control the contents of production during operation. The contents of the first special symbol effect symbol management process will be further described later with reference to another drawing.

  Step S403: In the next second special symbol effect symbol management process, the effect control CPU 126 controls the contents of the variable display effect and the result display effect using the mini effect symbol corresponding to the second special symbol, or the variable winning device 30. Control the contents of the production during the opening and closing operation. The contents of the second special symbol effect symbol management process are the same except that the object of control is different from the first special symbol effect symbol management process (the previous step S402).

  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 contents of the effect (design 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, when there is a movable body for presentation, the presentation control CPU 126 outputs a control signal to the movable body driving IC. Although not particularly illustrated, the movable body is operated by a driving source such as a solenoid or a stepping motor, and produces an effect in synchronism with the display of an image by the liquid crystal display 42 or independently. These solenoids, stepping motors, and other drive sources can be connected to, for example, the panel illumination board 138 in FIG.

  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 action memory effect management process executed in the effect control process will be described.

[Working memory production management process]
FIG. 40 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the working memory effect management process. Hereinafter, the contents of the working memory effect management process will be described along a procedure example.

  Step S700: First, the effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the effect command at the time of increasing the number of working memories has been 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 the effect command at the time when the number of working memories increases is stored. When it is confirmed that the effect command at the time of increasing the number of working memories is stored (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S702. If it is not possible to confirm that the effect command at the time of increasing the number of operating memories is stored (No), the effect control CPU 126 does not execute step S702.

  Step S702: The effect control CPU 126 executes an effect selection process when the number of working memories increases. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects an effect pattern for displaying the markers M1 and M2 corresponding to the first special symbol and the second special symbol. Thereby, the effect pattern which displays the markers M1 and M2 in the changing display area X2, and the display pattern of the markers M1 and M2 in the lower display area X1 are determined.

  Step S704: The effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the effect command at the time when the number of working memories decreases 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 the effect command when the number of working memories is reduced is stored. When it is confirmed that the production command when the number of working memories decreases is saved (Yes), the production control CPU 126 executes step S706. If it is not possible to confirm that the effect command at the time of increasing the number of operating memories is stored (No), the effect control CPU 126 does not execute Steps S706 and S708.

  Step S706: The effect control CPU 126 executes effect selection processing when the number of working memories decreases. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 moves the markers M1 and M2 from the lower display area X1 to the changing display area X2 or the effect pattern in which the markers M1 and M2 corresponding to the first special symbol and the second special symbol are slid. Select the production pattern to be performed.

  Step S708: Also, the effect control CPU 126 executes a combined change effect selecting process during parallel fluctuation. The specific processing content will be further described later using another flowchart.

Step S710: Then, the effect control CPU 126 executes an operation memory effect executing process during variation display. The details of this specific processing will be further described later using another flowchart.
When the above procedure is completed, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect control process (FIG. 39).

  In the action memory effect management process (FIG. 40), for example, a step of determining whether “first special symbol or second special symbol is changing” before step S710 (fluctuation display action memory effect executing process). May be placed. In this case, it is possible to employ a logic that executes step S710 if it is currently fluctuating (a new fluctuation pattern command has been received) and skips step S710 if it is not fluctuating.

[Built-in effect selection process during parallel change]
FIG. 41 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the procedure of the above-described parallel variation coalescence effect selection process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 can select an effect pattern that combines the markers M1 and M2 during the parallel variation of the first special symbol and the second special symbol.

  Step S800: That is, the effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not parallel fluctuation has occurred. For example, when the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and confirms that a valid variation pattern command is stored for both the first special symbol and the second special symbol, parallel variation has occurred (Yes) ). In this case, the effect control CPU 126 executes the next step S802. If effective variation pattern commands are not stored for both the first special symbol and the second special symbol (No), the effect control CPU 126 returns to the action memory effect management process without executing step S802 and subsequent steps.

Step S802: Next, the effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the coalescing effect execution condition is satisfied. For example, it can be determined that the combined performance execution condition is satisfied in the following case.
(1) Either the first special symbol or the second special symbol is not in a big hit state, and the shorter remaining fluctuation time is a predetermined number of seconds (for example, about 6 seconds) or more.
(2) Either the first special symbol or the second special symbol is not in the big hit state, and the reach variation pattern command exists in either. The variation pattern in this case may be a big hit reach variation or an outlier reach variation.

  When the condition (1) or (2) is satisfied (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes the next step S804.

  Step S804: In this case, the effect control CPU 126 selects a combined effect pattern. Specifically, an effect pattern for combining the markers M1 and M2 into one in the changing display area X2 is selected. Here, an effect pattern when the later added markers M1 and M2 are combined with the already changing markers M1 and M2 is mainly selected (in FIG. 33 ( iii) and (B) in FIG. 35).

  When the above procedure is executed, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the operation memory effect management process. If none of the conditions is satisfied in the previous step S802 (step S802: No), the effect control CPU 126 returns to the working memory effect management process without executing step S804.

[Operation memory effect execution processing during variable display]
Next, FIG. 42 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the procedure of the action display effect execution process during variation display. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 can update the display mode (display mode) of the markers M1 and M2 displayed in the changing display area X2. This will be specifically described below.

Step S900: First, the effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the combined effect pattern is being selected for the markers M1 and M2. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not the coalescing effect pattern has been selected in the previous combined fluctuating coalescence effect selection process (FIG. 41).
If the union effect pattern has not yet been selected at the present time (No), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S906 without executing steps S902 and S904. The contents of step S906 will be described later. On the other hand, when the united effect pattern has already been selected at the present time (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 next executes step S902.

  Step S902: Here, the effect control CPU 126 executes a united effect pattern display update process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 updates the display mode of the markers M1 and M2 in the changing display area X2. The display mode is updated by, for example, blinking the markers M1 and M2 being merged with the passage of the fluctuation time or shining with the reflection of external light (these examples are not shown). ).

  Step S904: Next, the effect control CPU 126 determines whether or not the parallel variation ends. Specifically, for either the first special symbol or the second special symbol, it is determined whether or not the remaining fluctuation time is 0 and the next working memory does not exist. If this condition is not satisfied (No), the effect control CPU 126 returns to the action memory effect management process. In this case, the working memory effect by the selected coalescing effect pattern is continued.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the parallel variation is completed by satisfying the above condition (step S904: Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S906.

  Step S906: In this case, the effect control CPU 126 returns (splits) based on the display mode of the markers M1 and M2 that have been combined so far in the marker display update process during the variable display. As a result, the markers M1 and M2 are split in the changing display area X2 ((v) in FIG. 34, (D) in FIG. 35, (B) in FIG. 36, etc.)). The contents of the variable display marker display update process will be described later using another flowchart.

  Even when the coalescing effect pattern has not yet been selected in the previous step S900 (step S900: No), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S906. In this case, the effect control CPU 126 changes the display form of the individual markers M1 and M2 small according to the remaining fluctuation time. As a result, an effect display in which the markers M1, M2 are gradually lost in the changing display area X2 is performed (FIGS. 30, 31, etc.).

  And if the above procedure is performed, production control CPU126 will return to an operation | movement memory production management process.

[Marker display update processing during fluctuation display]
FIG. 43 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the marker display update process during the above-described variation display. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 can change the display form of the markers M1 and M2 corresponding to the first special symbol or the second special symbol which is changing independently (including the case where the combined memory display image is split). . Hereinafter, it demonstrates along the example of a procedure.

  Step S920: First, the effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the current variation target symbol is the first special symbol, and if it corresponds to the first special symbol (Yes), then executes step S922.

  Step S922: Next, the effect control CPU 126 calculates the remaining time of the first special symbol variation timer. Specifically, when the production control CPU 126 newly receives a fluctuation pattern command from the main control CPU 72 regarding the current fluctuation, the production control CPU 126 sets the current fluctuation time (initial value of the fluctuation timer), and stores the value in the timer counter area of the RAM 130. Save to. Thereafter, until the next variation pattern command is received, the effect control CPU 126 subtracts the value of the variation timer according to the elapsed time from the start of variation, and updates the result to the timer counter area. For this reason, the remaining time can be calculated from the updated value of the variable timer here.

  Step S924: The effect control CPU 126 designates a first special symbol marker display pattern corresponding to the remaining time of the variation timer. That is, here, the size of the marker M1 to be displayed in the changing display area X2 is designated from the ratio of the remaining time to the initial setting value of the changing timer. For example, if the remaining time of the current variation timer is 100% (at the start of variation), the effect control CPU 126 designates a marker display pattern in which the size of the marker M1 is the initial size (maximum). If the remaining time of the current variation timer is about 50%, the effect control CPU 126 specifies a marker display pattern in which the size of the marker M1 is about half of the initial size, and if the remaining time is about several percent. The effect control CPU 126 designates a marker display pattern in which the size of the marker M1 is reduced to about several percent of the initial size. Thereby, for example, as shown in FIG. 32A, the display form of the marker M1 according to the remaining time of the variation timer can be appropriately set.

  The above is the procedure when the current variation target corresponds to the first special symbol, but when the variation target is the second special symbol (step S920: No), the procedure is as follows.

  Step S926: Next, the effect control CPU 126 calculates the remaining time of the second special symbol variation timer. The method for calculating the remaining time of the variation timer is the same as the calculation method for the first special symbol (step S922).

  Step S924: The effect control CPU 126 specifies a second special symbol marker display pattern corresponding to the remaining time of the variation timer. Similarly, if the remaining time of the current variation timer is 100% (at the start of variation), the effect control CPU 126 designates a marker display pattern in which the size of the marker M2 is the initial size (maximum). If the remaining time of the current variation timer is about 50%, the effect control CPU 126 designates a marker display pattern in which the size of the marker M2 is about half of the initial size, and if the remaining time is about several percent. The production control CPU 126 designates a marker display pattern in which the size of the marker M2 is reduced to about several percent of the initial size. Thereby, also about the marker M2 corresponding to a 2nd special symbol, the display form according to the remaining time of the fluctuation | variation timer can be set appropriately.

  When either step S924 or step S928 described above is executed, the effect control CPU 126 goes to the effect control process (FIG. 39) through the action display effect execution process during the variable display (FIG. 42) and the action memory effect management process (FIG. 40). Return.

  In the display output process (step S404 in FIG. 39), the effect control CPU 126 notifies the effect display control device 144 of the marker display pattern specified in step S924. As a result, the markers M1 and M2 having the designated sizes are displayed in the changing display area X2 on the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42 (stored display form change effect execution means).

[First special symbol effect symbol management process (second special symbol effect symbol management process)]
Next, FIG. 44 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the first special symbol effect symbol management process. The first special symbol effect symbol management process includes an execution selection process (step S500), an effect symbol change pre-process (step S502), an effect symbol change process (step S504), an effect symbol stop display process (step S506), and a variable. This is a configuration including a subroutine group of the winning device operation process (step S508). Hereinafter, the basic flow of the effect symbol management process will be described along each process. As described above, the content of the second special symbol effect symbol management process is basically the same as that of the first special symbol effect symbol management process except that the control target is a mini effect symbol corresponding to the second special symbol. Since they are common, the first special symbol effect symbol management process will be described as an example here.

  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 S502 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, if the situation has not yet started the variation display effect, the effect control CPU 126 selects the effect symbol variation pre-processing (step S502) as the next jump destination. 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. 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. 16 or step S5900 in FIG. 17) is selected in the main control CPU 72. . In this case, steps S502 to S506 are not executed.

  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 mini effect symbol corresponding to the first special symbol as the control target. 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 produces an effect pattern for the notice effect (reach occurrence other than the pre-reading notice effect pattern). Select a previous notice pattern, a notice pattern after reach, 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 while executing a variable display effect using a mini effect design, the effect control CPU 126 monitors whether or not the player has operated the effect button, and according to the result. The control information of effect content (button effect) is instructed to the display control CPU 146.

  Step S506: In the effect symbol stop display process, the effect control CPU 126 controls the contents of the result display effect using the mini effect symbol and the moving image 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 result display effect (= stop display effect). In response to this, the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146) ends the variable display effect of the mini effect symbol that has been actually executed within the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42, and executes the result display effect. . Thereby, the result display effect by the mini effect symbol is executed substantially in synchronization with the stop display of the corresponding first special symbol, and the result of the internal lottery is effectively taught to the player (disclosure, notification, notification, etc.) (Design effect execution means). However, in the present embodiment, the result display effect is executed in a manner similar to or close to the loss when winning two rounds or at a small hit.

  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 15 rounds of promising big hit with a play, the effect control CPU 126 selects a 15-round prominent effect pattern as the effect contents to be displayed on the liquid crystal display 42, and this effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146). To instruct. As a result, the image of the big hit effect is displayed on the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42, and the effect contents change as the round progresses.

[Preliminary design change processing]
FIG. 45 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the procedure of the effect symbol variation pre-processing. In addition, although the example of the procedure of the effect symbol change pre-processing performed in the 1st special symbol effect symbol management process is given here, before the effect symbol change executed in the 2nd special symbol effect symbol management process The processing procedure example can be the same except that the control target is a mini effect symbol corresponding to the second special symbol. 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. 39) and lamp driving process (step S406 in FIG. 39). 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 is the first special symbol related to the controlled object (the second special symbol is the second special symbol in the second special symbol effect symbol management process. The same applies thereafter). Check if it exists. 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 for the first special symbol. 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. That is, if the current variation pattern command for the first special symbol corresponds to the outlier normal variation or the 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 variation is a big hit for the first special symbol. 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 for the first special symbol. 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. Note that it is also possible to check whether or not the current variation is a big hit for the first special symbol based on the variation pattern command or the stop symbol command. That is, for the first special symbol, if the current variation pattern command corresponds to the jackpot variation, it can be determined that the current variation is a jackpot variation. 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 in pairs with the variation pattern command, and the effect control CPU 126 refers to an effect pattern selection table (not shown) and selects the effect pattern number corresponding to the variation pattern command at that time. Can do.

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

  Although the above procedure corresponds to “small hit”, if it corresponds to 15 round big hit or 2 round 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. The types of mini effect symbols determined here include those constituting the “combination at the time of two rounds of jackpot” in addition to those constituting the above “hit combination”. In addition, the combination at the time of 2 round big hits shall be a combination of regular numbers such as “1-2-3” and “3-5-7” as described above (so-called chance win) Can do. 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 losing is selected, the effect control CPU 126 refers to the effect table (not shown), and the change schedule of the mini effect symbol corresponding to the change effect pattern number at that time (change time, presence / absence of reach, occurrence of reach) In this case, reach type and reach occurrence timing) and a stop display mode (for example, “7”-“2”-“4”) are determined.

  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. 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.

  When the above procedure is completed, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the last address of the effect symbol management process. As a result, in the subsequent effect symbol variation processing (step S504 in FIG. 44), the variation display effect and the result display effect by the mini effect symbol are executed based on the actually selected variation effect pattern (design effect). Execution means), the notice effect is executed based on various notice effect patterns. In addition, various modes of stay mode effects may be executed based on the background (stay) mode pattern selected here (effect execution means).

[Processing during production design variation]
FIG. 46 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the processing during the effect symbol variation. In addition, although the example of the procedure of the effect symbol variation process performed in the 1st special symbol effect symbol management process is given here, the effect symbol variation executed in the second special symbol effect symbol management process is given. The processing procedure example can be the same except that the control target is a mini effect symbol corresponding to the second special symbol. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 executes a variable display effect using the mini effect symbol on the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42, or performs a variable display effect using the combined effect symbol when a parallel variation occurs. Can be executed. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along the example of a procedure.

  Step S950: First, the effect control CPU 126 checks whether or not the parallel variation effect pattern is currently selected. The “parallel variation effect pattern” here corresponds to an effect pattern that is performed using a combined effect design when parallel variation occurs as described above. If the parallel variation effect pattern has not yet been selected (No), the effect control CPU 126 executes the next step S952.

Step S952: Next, the effect control CPU 126 determines whether or not the parallel variation effect execution condition is satisfied. It can be determined that the parallel variation effect execution condition is satisfied in the following cases, for example, in the same manner as the previous parallel variation coalescence effect selection process (step S800 in FIG. 41).
(1) Either the first special symbol or the second special symbol is not in a big hit state, and the shorter remaining fluctuation time is a predetermined number of seconds (for example, about 6 seconds) or more.
(2) Either the first special symbol or the second special symbol is not in the big hit state, and the reach variation pattern command exists in either. The variation pattern in this case may be a big hit reach variation or an outlier reach variation.

    When the condition (1) or (2) is satisfied (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes the next step S954.

  Step S954: In this case, the effect control CPU 126 executes a parallel variation display effect pattern selection process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects an effect pattern of a change display effect and a stop display effect (result display effect) using the combined effect design.

  Step S956: The effect control CPU 126 executes effect symbol parallel variation display update processing. That is, when a parallel variation effect pattern is newly selected in the previous step S954 or a parallel variation effect pattern has already been selected (step S950: Yes), the effect control CPU 126 uses the combined effect design in this process. The mode of the variable display effect is updated ((iii), (iv), etc. in FIG. 33).

  In step S956, the effect control CPU 126 determines whether or not the parallel variation ends. Specifically, for either the first special symbol or the second special symbol, it is determined whether or not the remaining fluctuation time is 0 and the next working memory does not exist. When it is determined that the parallel variation is completed by satisfying this condition, the effect control CPU 126 discards the currently selected parallel variation effect pattern. In this case, after that, it is determined in step S950 that the parallel variation effect pattern is not selected (No), and the flow changes to execute step S952.

  In particular, when the parallel variation effect execution condition is not satisfied (step S952: No), the effect control CPU 126 executes (step S) 958.

  Step S958: In this case, the effect control CPU 126 executes effect symbol variation display update processing. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 updates the aspect of the effect during the variable display based on the mini effect symbol (FIG. 30, FIG. 31, etc.). Even when the parallel variation effect pattern is discarded in the previous step S956, the effect control CPU 126 divides the united effect design so far and updates it to the variation display effect using the mini effect design.

  When the above procedure is executed, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect symbol management process. In addition, by executing the above procedure in the second special symbol effect symbol management process, it is possible to achieve consistency of the effect mode at the time of occurrence of parallel fluctuation or at the end of parallel fluctuation.

  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.

  The images given in other production examples are merely examples, and these can be appropriately modified. Moreover, the structure of the pachinko machine 1, a board | substrate surface structure, etc. are a preferable illustration including the thing of illustration, and it cannot be overemphasized that these can be deform | transformed suitably. For example, the arrangement of the right start winning opening 26 and the variable start winning apparatus 28 may be interchanged on the left and right in the board surface. In this case, since the relationship between the left and right arrangement of the start opening where the winning occurs and the arrangement of the corresponding mini effect symbols and markers M1 and M2 correspond to the left and right, it is possible to match the apparent behavior. However, even if the left and right winning openings, the mini effect symbols, and the arrangement relationship between the markers M1 and M2 cross on the left and right as in the embodiment, a certain interest can be exhibited there.

  In one embodiment, the first special symbol is changed for winning in the right start winning port 26, and the second special symbol is changed for winning in the left starting winning port 28a (variable start winning device 28). Although it is varied, these correspondences can be exchanged.

  In the embodiment, an example in which the mini effect symbols are arranged at the upper left and right corners in the display screen is given, but the mini effect symbols may be arranged in other ways.

The effect of changing the display form of the markers M1 and M2 within the changing display area X2 may be, for example, as follows.
(1) Markers M1 and M2 are displayed in respective display colors (for example, blue, red, etc.) at the start of change, and the display color is gradually changed lightly (or transmittance) as the change time thereafter. Aspect).
(2) While displaying the symbols M1 and M2 symbols (for example, crescent moon shape) at the start of fluctuation, the image showing the contents (liquid, powder, etc.) filled in each marker M1 and M2 A mode in which the content is reduced as the subsequent fluctuation time elapses.
(3) In addition, the progress of the change in the first special symbol or the second special symbol is visually recalled as the form of the markers M1, M2 displayed at the start of the change changes with the passage of the change time. A mode to be made.

  In the embodiment described above, the event generating means that can alternately generate the first event and the second event has been described in the example of the sorting device 200. However, the left start winning port 28a and the right start winning port 26 are simply left and right. You may employ | adopt the structure arrange | positioned along with. Even with such a structure, the first event and the second event can be generated alternately.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Pachinko machine 8 Game board 8a Game area 20 Start gate 26 Right start prize port 28 Variable start prize device 28a Left start prize port 33 Normal symbol display device 33a Normal symbol operation memory lamp 34 1st special symbol display device 35 2nd special symbol Display device 34a First special symbol operation memory lamp 35a Second special symbol operation memory lamp 38 Game state display device 42 Liquid crystal display 70 Main control device 72 Main control CPU
74 ROM
76 RAM
124 Production control device 126 Production control CPU

Claims (3)

Lottery element acquisition means for acquiring a lottery element necessary for a predetermined internal lottery on the condition that a predetermined event that triggers a lottery occurs during a game;
When the internal lottery is executed on the condition that the lottery element has been acquired by the lottery element acquisition unit with the occurrence of the predetermined event, after the predetermined symbol is variably displayed over a predetermined fluctuation time, A symbol display means for stopping and displaying the symbol in a manner representing the result of the internal lottery;
When the predetermined event occurs in a state where the start condition for starting the symbol variation display by the symbol display means is not satisfied, the lottery elements acquired by the lottery element acquisition means are stored in the order of acquisition. And a lottery element storage means for restricting new storage of the lottery element when the number of stored lottery elements reaches a maximum value;
When the predetermined event occurs in a state where the start condition is satisfied, the internal lottery is executed using the lottery element acquired by the lottery element acquisition unit, and the symbol display by the symbol display unit is performed. Lottery execution means for executing the internal lottery using the lottery elements in the order in which the lottery elements are stored when the lottery elements are stored by the lottery element storage means at the end of the stop display after being broken;
A storage display image that individually represents the storage of the lottery elements stored by the lottery element storage means is displayed in a first display area defined in advance within a predetermined display screen, and the number of stored lottery elements is displayed. A memory number display effect executing means for executing a memory number display effect of an aspect;
When the symbol display by the symbol display means is started by the internal lottery using the lottery element stored by the lottery element storage means, the internal lottery corresponding to the change display is started. The storage display image representing the storage of the lottery elements used for the display is moved to a second display area defined in advance in the display screen separately from the first display area, and the variation display A storage display form in which the display form of the stored display image is changed in the second display area in accordance with the degree of progress, thereby gradually reducing the size of the stored display image in accordance with the remaining change time of the change display. A gaming machine comprising storage display form change effect execution means for executing a change effect. In the gaming machine according to claim 1,
The memory display form change effect executing means is
A gaming machine characterized in that the size of the stored display image is gradually reduced in accordance with an elapsed time after the symbol display is started by the symbol display means. In the gaming machine according to claim 1 or 2,
The memory display form change effect executing means is
A gaming machine characterized in that the size of the stored display image is gradually reduced in accordance with the remaining time of the variation time preset by the symbol display means.