JP6154343B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a gaming machine that performs variable display and can be controlled to an advantageous state advantageous to a player.

  As a gaming machine, a game ball, which is a game medium, is launched into a game area by a launching device, and when a game ball wins a prize area such as a prize opening provided in the game area, a predetermined prize value is given to the player There is something that was configured. Further, a variable display unit capable of variably displaying the identification information (also referred to as “fluctuation”) is provided, and a predetermined game value is obtained when the display result of the variable display of the identification information in the variable display unit becomes a specific display result. Are configured to give the player.

  The winning value means that a winning ball is paid out or a score or a prize is given in accordance with the winning of a game ball in the winning area. In addition, the game value means that when a specific display result is obtained, the state of the variable winning ball apparatus provided in the gaming area of the gaming machine becomes an advantageous state for a player who is easy to win, and for the player. For example, a right to be advantageous can be generated, and a condition for paying out a winning ball can be easily established.

  In the pachinko gaming machine, as a display result of variable display of a special symbol (identification information) that is started in the variable display unit based on the fact that a game ball wins at a start winning opening (starting area) and a predetermined start condition is established When a predetermined specific display mode (specific display result) is derived and displayed, a “big hit (specific game state)” occurs. The derived display is to stop and display the symbol. When the big hit occurs, for example, the big winning opening is opened a predetermined number of times, and the game shifts to a big hit gaming state where the hit ball is easy to win. And in each open period, if there is a prize for a predetermined number (for example, 10) of the big prize opening, the big prize opening is closed. And the number of times the special winning opening is opened is fixed to a predetermined number (for example, 15 rounds). An opening time (for example, 29 seconds) is determined for each opening, and even if the number of winnings does not reach a predetermined number, the big winning opening is closed when the opening time elapses. Hereinafter, the opening period of each special winning opening may be referred to as a round.

  In such a gaming machine, before starting the variable display based on the winning of the game ball in the starting winning opening (starting area), it is determined whether or not the display result becomes the specific display result by pre-reading the random number value. However, there is one configured to execute a notice effect based on the determination result (see, for example, Patent Document 1). In Patent Document 1, a variable display in which a start condition has not yet been established even though a game ball has passed through the start area is stored as a hold memory and displayed as a hold display. When the player performs a predetermined operation while performing the effect of displaying the character image pointing to the display, the effect of changing the display mode of the specific hold display from the normal mode to the special mode is performed. It is described to do.

JP 2004-357878 A

  The gaming machine described in Patent Document 1 performs an effect of changing the display mode of the hold display from the normal mode to the special mode based on the player's operation, and when the operation is not performed within the operation effective period. Is configured not to change. The above-mentioned Patent Document 1 also describes that the change may be made even when the operation is not performed within the operation effective period, but in any case, the timing at which the display mode of the hold display changes is fixed. ing. Specifically, an effect of changing the display mode of the hold display at the time of operation by the player or at the end of the operation valid period is performed. Therefore, in the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, although the effect of changing the display mode of the hold display is performed, the timing for the change is fixed, so that the game entertainment cannot be sufficiently improved.

  In view of the above, an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can provide a variety of timings for changing the display mode of the on-hold display and improve the game entertainment.

(1) A gaming machine that performs variable display (for example, variable display of the first special symbol, the second special symbol, and the production symbol) and can be controlled in an advantageous state (for example, a big hit game state) advantageous to the player. ,
Variable display information pending memory of (e.g., first hold memory and the second hold memory) and can be stored as a pending storage means (e.g., first hold memory buffer and the second hold storage buffer),
A hold display means (for example, a combined hold storage display unit 18c) for displaying the hold storage stored in the hold storage means as a hold display;
A determination means for determining whether or not to control to the advantageous state (for example, a portion where the game control microcomputer 560 executes steps S61, S62, and S73);
Determination means (for example, a part where the game control microcomputer 560 executes steps S1217 and S1228) for determining whether or not the advantageous state is controlled before the determination means determines,
The display mode of the hold display includes a normal mode (“◯” in this example: see FIG. 42A) and a special mode (6 in the outer side of “O” in this example) that is different from the normal mode. And a first special mode (in this example, “X” is included in “◯”) which is different from the normal mode and the special mode: FIG. 43 (B)) 42 (see B1)) and the second special mode (in this example, two “x” are included in “◯”: see FIG. 42 (B2)),
Depending on the determination result of the determination means, the hold notice effect that displays the hold display corresponding to the hold memory that is the determination target of the determination means in different proportions in the first special mode or the second special mode ( For example, effect execution means (for example, the part in which the effect control microcomputer 100 executes steps S67106, S67114, S1813, S1845, etc., see FIG. 29B) capable of executing a prefetch effect)
Storage means (ROM 54) in which a game control program is stored;
Arithmetic processing means (CPU 56) for executing arithmetic processing based on the game control program,
The effect execution means changes the hold display to the first special mode or the second special mode at a plurality of timings (for example, a start winning timing, an arbitrary shift timing, another arbitrary timing, etc.). Can be displayed,
Suggestion effect execution means (for example, a portion where the effect control microcomputer 100 executes steps S67110, S67115, S1806, S1813, S1845, etc.) for executing the suggestion effect suggesting that the display mode of the hold display changes is further provided. Prepared,
In the game control program, a main routine (main process in FIG. 4), a subroutine (start port switch passing process in FIG. 13), and a predetermined interrupt condition (timer interrupt) are established during execution of the main routine. Interrupt routine (timer interrupt processing of FIG. 5) called when
The arithmetic processing means includes:
When the interrupt routine is called, the interrupt routine is executed in a state where specific information (value of the caller flag register) that can specify the operation state by the operation processing means is stored in a predetermined area (stack area). While starting
When the subroutine is called, execution of the subroutine is started without storing the specific information in the predetermined area (the interrupt routine is executed after the value of the caller flag register is stored in the stack area). The first subroutine is executed without storing the value of the caller flag register in the stack area)
The suggestion effect execution means executes the suggestion effect at a higher frequency when the hold display is displayed in the special mode than when the hold display is not displayed in the special mode ,
There are multiple aspects of the suggestion effect,
The ratio at which the display mode of the hold display is the first special mode or the second special mode varies depending on the mode of the suggestion effect.

  According to such a configuration, it is possible to change the hold display to the first special mode or the second special mode and display it at a plurality of timings. You can have it.

(2) In the gaming machine described in (1) above,
When the hold display is displayed in the special mode (for example, when the production control microcomputer 100 decides to execute the prefetch effect in the second prefetch effect pattern in step S67107 and executes step S67112), the hold is displayed. Before the variable display based on the hold storage corresponding to the display is started, the hold display is changed from the special mode to the first special mode or the second special mode and displayed (for example, a microcomputer for effect control) 100 is a part for executing steps S1803, S1811, S1813, S1845, etc. (see FIGS. 30, 31, 43 to 44).

  According to such a configuration, when the hold display is displayed in a special mode, the display is changed from the special mode to the first special mode or the second special mode, so that the game entertainment can be improved. .

(3) In the gaming machine according to (1) or (2) above,
The suggestion effect execution means executes the suggestion effect at a higher frequency when the hold display is displayed in the special mode than when the hold display is not displayed in the special mode (for example, the effect The part which the control microcomputer 100 performs step S1806 etc. (refer FIG. 35 (A), (B)).

  According to such a configuration, when the hold display is displayed in a special mode, the suggestion effect is executed at a high frequency, so that a sense of expectation can be enhanced, and the game entertainment can be improved.

(4) In the gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (3) above,
A plurality of types of hold notice effect patterns (for example, a first prefetch effect pattern and a second prefetch effect pattern) are provided as the effect patterns of the hold notice effect,
The production execution means
When the specific determination unit determines that the specific display result is obtained, the reservation determination memory that is the determination target of the specific determination unit has a higher rate than when the specific determination unit determines that the specific display result is not obtained. The corresponding hold display is displayed in the second special mode (for example, the part in which the production control microcomputer 100 executes step S67106, etc., see FIG. 29B).
When performing a hold notice effect with a hold notice effect pattern (for example, a second lookahead effect pattern) that changes the hold display from the special mode to the first special mode or the second special mode and displays it, the hold display is displayed. The hold is performed at a higher rate than when the hold notice effect is displayed in the hold notice effect pattern (for example, the first prefetch effect pattern) displayed in the first special form or the second special form without being displayed in the special form. The display is displayed in the second special mode (for example, the part in which the production control microcomputer 100 executes steps S67106, S67107, etc., see FIG. 29B and FIG. 30).

  According to such a configuration, when the hold display is displayed in a special mode, the ratio displayed when the specific display result is high and the ratio displayed in the second special mode is high. Can improve the game entertainment.

(5) In the gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (4) above,
Variable display corresponding display means (variable display corresponding display area) for displaying a hold display corresponding to the variable display as a variable display compatible display when performing variable display of the identification information;
The hold display displayed by the hold display means and the variable display support display displayed by the variable display corresponding display means can have a common effect (the first action effect that can act on the hold display and the variable display support display. The second action effect is further provided with display changing means for executing an effect that commonly uses at least a part of the effect mode such as a specific character image and changing the specific effect mode.

  According to such a configuration, the interest of the game can be further improved by making the player pay more attention to the variable display compatible display and the common effects.

It is the front view which looked at the pachinko game machine from the front. It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structural example of a game control board (main board). It is a block diagram showing an example of circuit configuration of an effect control board, a lamp driver board and an audio output board. It is a flowchart which shows the main process which CPU in a main board | substrate performs. It is a flowchart which shows a 2 ms timer interruption process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the variation pattern of the production | presentation symbol prepared beforehand. It is explanatory drawing which shows each random number. It is explanatory drawing which shows a big hit determination table, a small hit determination table, and a big hit type determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows a fluctuation pattern determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the content of an effect control command. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the content of an effect control command. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the content of the determination result designation command at the time of winning. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the program of a special symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows a starting port switch passage process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of a pending | holding buffer. It is a flowchart which shows the effect process at the time of winning. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol normal process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol normal process. It is a flowchart which shows a fluctuation pattern setting process. It is a flowchart which shows a display result designation | designated command transmission process. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol change process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol stop process. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit end process. It is a flowchart which shows the presentation control main process which CPU for presentation control performs. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of a command reception buffer. It is a flowchart which shows a command analysis process. It is a flowchart which shows a command analysis process. It is a flowchart which shows prefetch effect determination processing. It is explanatory drawing which shows a prefetch effect execution determination table and a final display mode determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows the prefetch effect pattern determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows the prefetch effect change timing determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows a suggestion effect mode determination table. It is a flowchart which shows production control process processing. It is a flowchart which shows a fluctuation pattern command reception waiting process. It is a flowchart which shows an effect design fluctuation start process. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the stop symbol of an effect symbol. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of process data. It is a flowchart which shows the process during effect design change. It is a flowchart which shows an effect design fluctuation stop process. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit display process. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit end effect process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example of the prefetch effect based on a 1st prefetch effect pattern. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example of the prefetch effect based on a 2nd prefetch effect pattern. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example of the prefetch effect based on a 2nd prefetch effect pattern.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. First, the overall configuration of a pachinko gaming machine 1 that is an example of a gaming machine will be described. FIG. 1 is a front view of the pachinko gaming machine 1 as seen from the front.

  The pachinko gaming machine 1 includes an outer frame (not shown) formed in a vertically long rectangular shape, and a game frame attached to the inside of the outer frame so as to be opened and closed. Further, the pachinko gaming machine 1 has a glass door frame 2 formed in a frame shape that is provided in the game frame so as to be opened and closed. The game frame includes a front frame (not shown) that can be opened and closed with respect to the outer frame, a mechanism plate (not shown) to which mechanism parts and the like are attached, and various parts (games to be described later) attached to them. A structure including the board 6).

  On the lower surface of the glass door frame 2 is a hitting ball supply tray (upper plate) 3. Under the hitting ball supply tray 3, there are provided a surplus ball receiving tray 4 for storing game balls that cannot be accommodated in the hitting ball supply tray 3, and a hitting operation handle (operation knob) 5 for firing the hitting ball. A game board 6 is detachably attached to the back surface of the glass door frame 2. The game board 6 is a structure including a plate-like body constituting the game board 6 and various components attached to the plate-like body. In addition, a game area 7 is formed on the front surface of the game board 6 in which a game ball that has been struck can flow down.

  An effect display device 9 composed of a liquid crystal display device (LCD) is provided near the center of the game area 7. The display screen of the effect display device 9 includes an effect symbol display area for performing variable display of the effect symbol in synchronization with the variable display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol. Therefore, the effect display device 9 corresponds to a variable display device that performs variable display of effect symbols. The effect symbol display area includes a symbol display area for variably displaying, for example, three decorative (effect) effect symbols of “left”, “middle”, and “right”. The symbol display area includes “left”, “middle”, and “right” symbol display areas, but the position of the symbol display area does not have to be fixed on the display screen of the effect display device 9. Three areas of the display area may be separated. The effect display device 9 is controlled by an effect control microcomputer mounted on the effect control board. When the first special symbol display 8a is executing variable display of the first special symbol, the effect control microcomputer causes the effect display device 9 to execute the effect display along with the variable display, and the second special symbol display 8a executes the second special display. When the variable display of the second special symbol is executed on the symbol display 8b, the effect display is executed by the effect display device 9 along with the variable display, so that the progress of the game can be easily grasped. .

  A first special symbol display (first variable display means) 8 a that variably displays a first special symbol as identification information is provided on the left side of the top of the effect display device 9 in the game board 6. In this embodiment, the first special symbol display 8a is realized by a simple and small display (for example, 7 segment LED) capable of variably displaying numbers 0 to 9. In other words, the first special symbol display 8a is configured to variably display numbers (or symbols) from 0 to 9. A second special symbol display (second variable display means) 8b that variably displays a second special symbol as identification information is provided on the right side of the upper portion of the effect display device 9 in the game board 6. The second special symbol display 8b is realized by a simple and small display (for example, 7 segment LED) capable of variably displaying numbers 0 to 9. That is, the second special symbol display 8b is configured to variably display numbers (or symbols) from 0 to 9.

  In this embodiment, the type of the first special symbol and the type of the second special symbol are the same (for example, both 0 to 9), but the types may be different. Further, the first special symbol display 8a and the second special symbol display 8b may be configured to variably display numbers (or two-digit symbols) of, for example, 00 to 99, for example.

  Hereinafter, the first special symbol and the second special symbol may be collectively referred to as a special symbol, and the first special symbol indicator 8a and the second special symbol indicator 8b may be collectively referred to as a special symbol indicator.

  Although this embodiment shows a case where two special symbol indicators 8a and 8b are provided, the gaming machine may be provided with only one special symbol indicator.

  For the variable display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol, the first start condition or the second start condition, which is the variable display execution condition, is satisfied (for example, the game ball has the first start winning opening 13 or the second start winning opening) 14), a variable display start condition (for example, when the number of reserved memories is not 0 and the variable display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol is not executed) When the variable display time (fluctuation time) elapses, a display result (stop symbol) is derived and displayed. Note that winning means that a game ball has entered a predetermined area such as a winning opening. Deriving and displaying the display result is to finally stop and display a symbol (an example of identification information).

  A winning device having a first start winning port 13 is provided below the effect display device 9. The game ball won in the first start winning opening 13 is guided to the back of the game board 6 and detected by the first start opening switch 13a.

  A variable winning ball device 15 having a second starting winning port 14 through which a game ball can be won is provided below a winning device having a first starting winning port (first starting port) 13. The game ball that has won the second start winning opening (second start opening) 14 is guided to the back of the game board 6 and detected by the second start opening switch 14a. The variable winning ball device 15 is opened by a solenoid 16. When the variable winning ball device 15 is in the open state, the game ball can be awarded to the second starting winning port 14 (it is easier to start winning), which is advantageous for the player. In the state where the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is in the open state, it is easier for the game ball to win the second start winning opening 14 than the first starting winning opening 13. In addition, in a state where the variable winning ball device 15 is in the closed state, the game ball does not win the second start winning opening 14. In the state where the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is in the closed state, it may be configured that the winning is possible (that is, it is difficult for the gaming ball to win) although it is difficult to win a prize.

  Hereinafter, the first start winning opening 13 and the second start winning opening 14 may be collectively referred to as a start winning opening or a starting opening.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, the variable winning ball apparatus 15 that opens and closes only the second start winning opening 14 is provided. Any of the start winning ports 14 may be provided with a variable winning ball device that performs an opening / closing operation.

  When the variable winning ball device 15 is controlled to be in the open state, the game ball heading for the variable winning ball device 15 is very likely to win the second start winning port 14. The first start winning opening 13 is provided directly under the effect display device 9, but the interval between the lower end of the effect display device 9 and the first start winning opening 13 is further reduced, or the first start winning opening is set. The nail arrangement around the first start winning opening 13 is made difficult to guide the game balls to the first starting winning opening 13 so that the winning rate of the second starting winning opening 14 is increased. It is also possible to make the direction higher than the winning rate of the first start winning opening 13.

  Below the first special symbol display 8a, the number of valid winning balls that have entered the first start winning opening 13, that is, the first reserved memory number (the reserved memory is also referred to as the start memory or the start prize memory) is displayed 4. There is provided a first special symbol storage memory indicator 18a composed of two indicators (for example, LEDs). The first special symbol storage memory indicator 18a increases the number of indicators to be lit by 1 each time there is an effective start winning. Then, each time the variable display on the first special symbol display 8a is started, the number of indicators to be turned on is reduced by one. For example, this is realized by executing a display control process in a display control process (step S22) of a timer interrupt process described later.

  Below the second special symbol display 8b is a second special symbol hold comprising four indicators (for example, LEDs) for displaying the number of effective winning balls that have entered the second start winning opening 14, that is, the second reserved memory number. A storage indicator 18b is provided. The second special symbol storage memory display 18b increases the number of indicators to be lit by 1 every time there is an effective start winning. Then, each time the variable display on the second special symbol display 8b is started, the number of indicators to be turned on is reduced by one. For example, this is realized by executing a display control process in a display control process (step S22) of a timer interrupt process described later.

  In addition, at the lower part of the display screen of the effect display device 9, there is provided a total pending storage display unit 18c for displaying the total number (total number of pending pending storage) that is the sum of the first reserved memory count and the second reserved memory count. ing. In this embodiment, on the total hold storage display unit 18c, the hold displays corresponding to the first hold memory and the second hold memory are displayed side by side in the order of winning to the first start winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14. The In addition, it may be made to display in the aspect which can recognize whether it is the 1st reservation memory or the 2nd reservation memory in the total reservation memory display part 18c (for example, the 1st reservation memory is displayed in red) The second reserved memory may be displayed in blue). Further, instead of the total reserved memory display unit 18c, a first reserved memory display unit that displays the first reserved memory number and a second reserved memory display unit that displays the second reserved memory number may be provided. Good.

  The effect display device 9 is for decoration (effect) during the variable display time of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display 8a and during the variable display time of the second special symbol on the second special symbol display 8b. The display of the effect symbol as a symbol for “for” is variably displayed. The variable display of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display 8a and the variable display of the effect symbol on the effect display device 9 are synchronized. Further, the variable display of the second special symbol on the second special symbol display 8b and the variable display of the effect symbol on the effect display device 9 are synchronized. Synchronous means that the start time and end time of variable display are substantially the same (may be exactly the same) and the variable display period is substantially the same (may be exactly the same). Further, when the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a and when the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed on the second special symbol display 8b, the effect display device 9 reminds the jackpot The combination of is stopped and displayed.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 1, a special variable winning ball device 20 is provided below the variable winning ball device 15. The special variable winning ball apparatus 20 includes an opening / closing plate, and when the specific display result (big hit symbol) is derived and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a, and the specific display result (big hit symbol) on the second special symbol display 8b. When the open / close plate is controlled to be open by the solenoid 21 in the specific game state (big hit game state) that occurs when the symbol is derived and displayed, the big winning opening serving as the winning area is opened. The game ball that has won the big winning opening is detected by the count switch 23.

  A normal symbol display 10 is provided at the lower right side of the game board 6. The normal symbol display 10 variably displays a plurality of types of identification information (for example, “◯” and “x”) called normal symbols.

  When the game ball passes through the gate 32 and is detected by the gate switch 32a, variable display of the normal symbol display 10 is started. In this embodiment, variable display is performed by alternately lighting the upper and lower lamps (the symbols can be visually recognized when turned on). For example, if the lower lamp is turned on at the end of the variable display, it is a hit. . When the stop symbol on the normal symbol display 10 is a predetermined symbol (winning symbol), the variable winning ball device 15 is opened for a predetermined number of times. In other words, the state of the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is a state that is advantageous from a disadvantageous state for the player when the normal symbol is a stop symbol (a state in which a game ball can be awarded at the second start winning port 14). To change. In the vicinity of the normal symbol display 10, a normal symbol holding storage display 41 having four indicators (for example, LEDs) for displaying the number of winning balls that have passed through the gate 32 is provided. Each time there is a game ball passing through the gate 32, that is, every time a game ball is detected by the gate switch 32a, the normal symbol storage memory display 41 increases the number of indicators that are turned on by one. Then, each time the variable display on the normal symbol display 10 is started, the number of indicators that are lit is reduced by one. Further, in the probability variation state where the probability of being determined to be a big hit as compared to the normal state is high, the probability that the stop symbol in the normal symbol display 10 becomes a winning symbol is increased, and the variable winning ball apparatus 15 The opening time becomes longer and the number of opening times is increased. That is, the game ball is controlled to be in a high base state that is controlled so as to make it easier for the game ball to start and win (that is, the variable display execution conditions in the special symbol indicators 8a and 8b and the effect display device 9 are easily established). Transition. Further, in this embodiment, even in the short time state (the game state in which the special symbol variable display time is shortened), the opening time of the variable winning ball device 15 becomes long and the number of times of opening is increased.

  Instead of extending the time during which the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is in the open state (also referred to as the open extended state), the normal symbol display unit 10 shifts to a normal symbol probability changing state in which the probability that the stop symbol in the normal symbol display unit 10 will be a hit symbol is increased. Depending on the situation, the high base state may be entered. When the stop symbol in the normal symbol display 10 becomes a predetermined symbol (winning symbol), the variable winning ball device 15 is opened for a predetermined number of times. In this case, by performing the transition control to the normal symbol probability changing state, the probability that the stop symbol in the normal symbol display 10 becomes a winning symbol is increased, and the frequency at which the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is opened is increased. Therefore, if the normal symbol probability changing state is entered, the opening time and the number of opening times of the variable winning ball device 15 are increased, and a state where it is easy to start a winning (high base state) is achieved. That is, the opening time and the number of times of opening of the variable winning ball device 15 can be increased when the stop symbol of the normal symbol is a winning symbol or the stop symbol of the special symbol is a probabilistic symbol. It changes to an advantageous state (a state where it is easy to win a start). It should be noted that increasing the number of times of opening is a concept including changing from a closed state to an open state.

  Moreover, you may transfer to a high base state by shifting to the normal symbol time short state where the fluctuation time (variable display period) of the normal symbol in the normal symbol display 10 is shortened. In the normal symbol short-time state, the variation time of the normal symbol is shortened, so that the frequency of starting the variation of the normal symbol increases, and as a result, the frequency of hitting the normal symbol increases. Therefore, when the frequency that the normal symbol is won increases, the frequency that the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is opened is increased, and the start winning state is easily set (high base state).

  Also, by shifting to the short time state when the variation time (variable display period) of special symbols and production symbols is shortened, the variation time of special symbols and production symbols is shortened, so that effective start winnings are likely to occur. The possibility that a big hit game is played increases.

  Furthermore, by shifting to all the states shown above (open extended state, normal symbol probability changing state, normal symbol short time state, and special symbol short time state), it will be easier to win a start (shift to a high base state). May be. In addition, it is easier to win a start (high base) by shifting to any one of the above states (open extended state, normal symbol probability changing state, normal symbol short time state, and special symbol short time state). Transition to a state).

  On the left and right sides of the game area 7 of the game board 6, there are provided decorative LEDs 25 that are displayed blinking during the game, and at the lower part there is an outlet 26 for taking in a hit ball that has not won. In addition, two speakers 27R and 27L that utter sound effects and sounds as predetermined sound outputs are provided on the left and right upper portions outside the game area 7. A top frame LED 28a, a left frame LED 28b, and a right frame LED 28c provided on the front frame are provided on the outer periphery upper portion, the outer periphery left portion, and the outer periphery right portion of the game area 7. Also, a prize ball LED 51 that is turned on when there is a remaining number of prize balls is provided in the vicinity of the left frame LED 28b, and a ball cut LED 52 that is turned on when the supply ball is cut is provided in the vicinity of the right frame LED 28c. . The top frame LED 28a, the left frame LED 28b, the right frame LED 28c, and the decoration LED 25 are examples of effects light emitters provided in the pachinko gaming machine 1. In addition to the above-described various LEDs for production (decoration), LEDs and lamps for production are installed.

  In the gaming machine, a ball striking device (not shown) that drives a driving motor in response to a player operating the batting operation handle 5 and uses the rotational force of the driving motor to launch a gaming ball to the gaming area 7. ) Is provided. A game ball launched from the ball striking device enters the game area 7 through a ball striking rail formed in a circular shape so as to surround the game area 7, and then descends the game area 7. When the game ball enters the first start winning opening 13 and is detected by the first start opening switch 13a, if the variable display of the first special symbol can be started (for example, the variable display of the special symbol ends, 1), the variable display (variation) of the first special symbol is started on the first special symbol display 8a, and the variable display of the effect symbol is started on the effect display device 9. That is, the variable display of the first special symbol and the effect symbol corresponds to winning in the first start winning opening 13. If the variable display of the first special symbol cannot be started, the first reserved memory number is increased by 1 on the condition that the first reserved memory number has not reached the upper limit value.

  When the game ball enters the second start winning port 14 and is detected by the second start port switch 14a, if the variable display of the second special symbol can be started (for example, the special symbol variable display ends and starts). When the condition is satisfied), the variable display (variation) of the second special symbol is started on the second special symbol display 8b, and the variable display of the effect symbol is started on the effect display device 9. That is, the variable display of the second special symbol and the effect symbol corresponds to winning in the second start winning opening 14. If the variable display of the second special symbol cannot be started, the second reserved memory number is increased by 1 on condition that the second reserved memory number has not reached the upper limit value.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the circuit configuration of the main board (game control board) 31. 2 also shows the payout control board 37, the effect control board 80, and the like. A game control microcomputer (corresponding to game control means) 560 for controlling the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to a program is mounted on the main board 31. The game control microcomputer 560 includes a ROM 54 for storing a game control (game progress control) program and the like, a RAM 55 as storage means used as a work memory, a CPU 56 for performing control operations in accordance with the program, and an I / O port unit 57. including. In this embodiment, the ROM 54 and the RAM 55 are built in the game control microcomputer 560. That is, the game control microcomputer 560 is a one-chip microcomputer. The one-chip microcomputer only needs to incorporate at least the CPU 56 and the RAM 55, and the ROM 54 may be external or built-in. The I / O port unit 57 may be externally attached. The game control microcomputer 560 further includes a random number circuit 503 that generates hardware random numbers (random numbers generated by the hardware circuit).

  In the game control microcomputer 560, the CPU 56 executes control in accordance with the program stored in the ROM 54, so that the game control microcomputer 560 (or CPU 56) executes (or performs processing) hereinafter. Specifically, the CPU 56 executes control according to a program. The same applies to microcomputers mounted on substrates other than the main substrate 31.

  The random number circuit 503 is a hardware circuit that is used to generate a random number for determination to determine whether or not to win a jackpot based on a display result of variable symbol special display. The random number circuit 503 updates numerical data in accordance with a set update rule within a numerical range in which an initial value (for example, 0) and an upper limit value (for example, 65535) are set, and starts at a random timing Based on the fact that the winning time is the reading (extraction) of the numerical data, it has a random number generation function in which the numerical data to be read becomes a random value.

  The random number circuit 503 includes a numeric data update range selection setting function (initial value selection setting function and upper limit value selection setting function), numeric data update rule selection setting function, and numeric data update rule selection. It has various functions such as a switching function. With such a function, the randomness of the generated random numbers can be improved.

  Further, the game control microcomputer 560 has a function of setting an initial value of numerical data updated by the random number circuit 503. For example, a predetermined calculation is performed using the ID number of the game control microcomputer 560 stored in a predetermined storage area such as the ROM 54 (an ID number assigned with a different value for each product of the game control microcomputer 560). The numerical data obtained by the execution is set as the initial value of the numerical data updated by the random number circuit 503. By performing such processing, the randomness of the random number generated by the random number circuit 503 can be further improved.

  The game control microcomputer 560 reads numerical data as random R from the random number circuit 503 when a start winning to the first start port switch 13a or the second start port switch 14a occurs, and starts to change the special symbol and the effect symbol. Sometimes it is determined whether or not to make a big hit display result as a specific display result based on the random R, that is, whether or not to make a big hit. Then, when it is determined to be a big hit, the gaming state is shifted to a big hit gaming state as a specific gaming state advantageous to the player.

  The RAM 55 is a backup RAM as a non-volatile storage means, part or all of which is backed up by a backup power supply created on the power supply board. That is, even if the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, a part or all of the contents of the RAM 55 is stored for a predetermined period (until the capacitor as the backup power supply is discharged and the backup power supply cannot be supplied). In particular, at least data corresponding to the game state, that is, the control state of the game control means (the value of the special symbol process flag or the total pending storage number counter) and the data indicating the number of unpaid winning balls are stored in the backup RAM. The data corresponding to the control state of the game control means is data necessary for restoring the control state before the occurrence of a power failure or the like based on the data when the power is restored after a power failure or the like occurs. Further, data corresponding to the control state and data indicating the number of unpaid prize balls are defined as data indicating the progress state of the game. In this embodiment, it is assumed that the entire RAM 55 is backed up.

  A reset signal (not shown) from the power supply board is input to the reset terminal of the game control microcomputer 560. A reset circuit for generating a reset signal supplied to the game control microcomputer 560 and the like is mounted on the power supply board. When the reset signal becomes high level, the game control microcomputer 560 and the like are in an operable state, and when the reset signal becomes low level, the game control microcomputer 560 and the like are in an operation stop state. Therefore, an allowable signal that allows the operation of the game control microcomputer 560 or the like is output during a period when the reset signal is at a high level, and a game control microcomputer is output when the reset signal is at a low level. An operation stop signal for stopping the operation of 560 or the like is output. Note that the reset circuit may be mounted on each electric component control board (a board on which a microcomputer for controlling the electric parts is mounted).

  Further, a power-off signal indicating that the power supply voltage from the power supply board has dropped below a predetermined value is input to the input port of the game control microcomputer 560. That is, the power supply board monitors the voltage value of a predetermined voltage (for example, DC30V or DC5V) used in the gaming machine, and when the voltage value decreases to a predetermined value (the power supply voltage is reduced). A power supply monitoring circuit that outputs a power-off signal indicating that). A clear signal (not shown) indicating that the clear switch for instructing to clear the contents of the RAM is operated is input to the input port of the game control microcomputer 560.

  Further, an input driver circuit 58 for supplying detection signals from the gate switch 32a, the first start port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a and the count switch 23 to the game control microcomputer 560 is also mounted on the main board 31. The main board also includes an output circuit 59 for driving the solenoid 16 for opening and closing the variable winning ball device 15 and the solenoid 21 for opening and closing the special variable winning ball device 20 that forms a big winning opening in accordance with a command from the game control microcomputer 560. 31. Further, an information output circuit (not shown) for outputting an information output signal such as jackpot information indicating the occurrence of a jackpot gaming state to an external device such as a hall computer is also mounted on the main board 31.

  In this embodiment, the effect control means (configured by the effect control microcomputer) mounted on the effect control board 80 instructs the effect contents from the game control microcomputer 560 via the relay board 77. An effect control command is received, and display control with the effect display device 9 that variably displays effect symbols is performed.

  FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a circuit configuration example of the relay board 77, the effect control board 80, the lamp driver board 35, and the audio output board 70. In the example shown in FIG. 3, the lamp driver board 35 and the audio output board 70 are not equipped with a microcomputer, but may be equipped with a microcomputer. Further, without providing the lamp driver board 35 and the audio output board 70, only the effect control board 80 may be provided for effect control.

  The effect control board 80 has an effect control microcomputer 100 including an effect control CPU 101 and a RAM. The RAM may be externally attached. In the effect control board 80, the effect control CPU 101 operates in accordance with a program stored in a built-in or external ROM (not shown), and receives a capture signal from the main board 31 input via the relay board 77 ( In response to the (effect control INT signal), an effect control command is received via the input driver 102 and the input port 103. Further, the effect control CPU 101 causes the VDP (video display processor) 109 to perform display control of the effect display device 9 based on the effect control command.

  Further, the RAM included in the production control microcomputer 100 is a backup RAM as a nonvolatile storage means, part of which is backed up by a backup power source created on the power supply board. That is, even if the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, a part of the RAM included in the effect control microcomputer 100 is maintained for a predetermined period (until the capacitor as the backup power supply is discharged and the backup power supply cannot be supplied). The contents are saved. In particular, at least data indicating the game state (probability change state flag and time reduction state flag described later) is stored in the backup RAM. However, in this embodiment, the value of the time reduction number counter for counting the number of fluctuations after the shift to the time reduction state described later is not stored in the backup RAM.

  In this embodiment, a VDP 109 that performs display control of the effect display device 9 in cooperation with the effect control microcomputer 100 is mounted on the effect control board 80. The VDP 109 has an address space independent of the production control microcomputer 100, and maps a VRAM therein. The VRAM is a buffer memory for expanding image data generated by the VDP. Then, the VDP 109 outputs the image data in the VRAM to the effect display device 9.

  The effect control CPU 101 reads necessary data from a character ROM (not shown) in accordance with the received effect control command. The character ROM is for storing character image data displayed on the effect display device 9, specifically, a person, characters, figures, symbols, etc. (including effect symbols) in advance. The effect control CPU 101 outputs the data read from the character ROM to the VDP 109. The VDP 109 executes display control based on the data input from the effect control CPU 101.

  The effect control command and the effect control INT signal are first input to the input driver 102 on the effect control board 80. The input driver 102 passes the signal input from the relay board 77 only in the direction toward the inside of the effect control board 80 (does not pass the signal in the direction from the inside of the effect control board 80 to the relay board 77). It is also a unidirectional circuit as a regulating means.

  As a signal direction regulating means, the signal inputted from the main board 31 is allowed to pass through the relay board 77 only in the direction toward the effect control board 80 (the signal is not passed in the direction from the effect control board 80 to the relay board 77). The unidirectional circuit 74 is mounted. For example, a diode or a transistor is used as the unidirectional circuit. FIG. 3 illustrates a diode. A unidirectional circuit is provided for each signal. Furthermore, since the effect control command and the effect control INT signal are output from the main board 31 via the output port 571 that is a unidirectional circuit, the signal from the relay board 77 toward the inside of the main board 31 is restricted. That is, the signal from the relay board 77 does not enter the inside of the main board 31 (the game control microcomputer 560 side). The output port 571 is a part of the I / O port unit 57 shown in FIG. Further, a signal driver circuit that is a unidirectional circuit may be further provided outside the output port 571 (on the relay board 77 side).

  Further, the effect control CPU 101 outputs a signal for driving the LED to the lamp driver board 35 via the output port 105. Further, the production control CPU 101 outputs sound number data to the audio output board 70 via the output port 104.

  In the lamp driver board 35, a signal for driving the LED is input to the LED driver 352 via the input driver 351. The LED driver 352 supplies a drive signal to each LED provided on the frame side such as the top frame LED 28a, the left frame LED 28b, and the right frame LED 28c. Further, a drive signal is supplied to the decoration LED 25 provided on the game board side. When a light emitter other than the LED is provided, a drive circuit (driver) for driving the light emitter is mounted on the lamp driver substrate 35.

  In the voice output board 70, the sound number data is input to the voice synthesis IC 703 via the input driver 702. The voice synthesizing IC 703 generates voice or sound effect according to the sound number data, and outputs it to the amplifier circuit 705. The amplifier circuit 705 outputs an audio signal obtained by amplifying the output level of the speech synthesis IC 703 to a level corresponding to the volume set by the volume 706 to the speakers 27R and 27L. The voice data ROM 704 stores control data corresponding to the sound number data. The control data corresponding to the sound number data is a collection of data showing the output form of the sound effect or sound in a time series in a predetermined period (for example, the changing period of the effect design).

  Next, the operation of the gaming machine will be described. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a main process executed by the game control microcomputer 560 on the main board 31. When power is supplied to the gaming machine and power supply is started, the input level of the reset terminal to which the reset signal is input becomes high level, and the gaming control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) After executing a security check process, which is a process for confirming whether the contents of the program are valid, the main process after step S1 is started. In the main process, the CPU 56 first performs necessary initial settings.

  In the initial setting process, the CPU 56 first sets the interrupt prohibition (step S1). Next, the interrupt mode is set to interrupt mode 2 (step S2), and a stack pointer designation address is set to the stack pointer (step S3). After initialization of the built-in device (CTC (counter / timer) and PIO (parallel input / output port), which are built-in devices (built-in peripheral circuits)) is performed (step S4), the RAM is accessible (Step S5). In the interrupt mode 2, the address synthesized from the value (1 byte) of the specific register (I register) built in the CPU 56 and the interrupt vector (1 byte: least significant bit 0) output from the built-in device is This mode indicates an interrupt address.

  Next, the CPU 56 checks the state of the output signal (clear signal) of a clear switch (for example, mounted on the power supply board) input via the input port (step S6). When the ON is detected in the confirmation, the CPU 56 executes normal initialization processing (steps S10 to S15).

  If the clear switch is not on, check whether data protection processing of the backup RAM area (for example, power supply stop processing such as addition of parity data) was performed when power supply to the gaming machine was stopped (Step S7). When it is confirmed that such protection processing is not performed, the CPU 56 executes initialization processing. Whether there is backup data in the backup RAM area is confirmed, for example, by the state of the backup flag set in the backup RAM area in the power supply stop process.

  When it is confirmed that the power supply stop process has been performed, the CPU 56 performs data check of the backup RAM area (step S8). In this embodiment, a parity check is performed as a data check. Therefore, in step S8, the calculated checksum is compared with the checksum calculated and stored by the same process in the power supply stop process. When the power supply is stopped after an unexpected power failure or the like, the data in the backup RAM area should be saved, so the check result (comparison result) is normal (matched). That the check result is not normal means that the data in the backup RAM area is different from the data when the power supply is stopped. In such a case, since the internal state cannot be returned to the state when the power supply is stopped, an initialization process that is executed when the power is turned on is not performed when the power supply is stopped.

  If the check result is normal, the CPU 56 recovers the game state restoration process (steps S41 to S43) for returning the internal state of the game control means and the control state of the electrical component control means such as the effect control means to the state when the power supply is stopped. Process). Specifically, the start address of the backup setting table stored in the ROM 54 is set as a pointer (step S41), and the contents of the backup setting table are sequentially set in the work area (area in the RAM 55) (step S42). ). The work area is backed up by a backup power source. In the backup setting table, initialization data for an area that may be initialized in the work area is set. As a result of the processing in steps S41 and S42, the saved contents of the work area that should not be initialized remain as they are. The part that should not be initialized is, for example, data indicating the gaming state before the power supply is stopped (special symbol process flag, probability variation flag, time reduction flag, etc.), and the area where the output state of the output port is saved (output port buffer) ), A portion in which data indicating the number of unpaid prize balls is set.

  Further, the CPU 56 transmits a power failure recovery designation command as an initialization command at the time of power supply recovery (step S43). Then, the process proceeds to step S14. In this embodiment, the CPU 56 also transmits, to the effect control board 80, a total pending storage number designation command in which the value of the total pending storage number counter stored in the backup RAM is set in the process of step S43. .

  In this embodiment, it is confirmed whether the data in the backup RAM area is stored using both the backup flag and the check data. However, only one of them may be used. That is, either the backup flag or the check data may be used as an opportunity for executing the game state restoration process.

  In the initialization process, the CPU 56 first performs a RAM clear process (step S10). The RAM clear process initializes predetermined data (for example, count value data of a counter for generating a random number for normal symbol determination) to 0, but an arbitrary value or a predetermined value It may be initialized to. In addition, the entire area of the RAM 55 may not be initialized, and predetermined data (for example, count value data of a counter for generating a random number for normal symbol determination) may be left as it is. Further, the start address of the initialization setting table stored in the ROM 54 is set as a pointer (step S11), and the contents of the initialization setting table are sequentially set in the work area (step S12).

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

  Further, the CPU 56 initializes a sub board (a board on which a microcomputer other than the main board 31 is mounted) (a command indicating that the game control microcomputer 560 has executed an initialization process). Is also transmitted to the sub-board (step S13). For example, when the effect control microcomputer 100 receives the initialization designation command, the effect display device 9 performs screen display for notifying that the control of the gaming machine has been performed, that is, initialization notification.

  Further, the CPU 56 executes a random number circuit setting process for initial setting of the random number circuit 503 (step S14). For example, the CPU 56 performs setting according to the random number circuit setting program to cause the random number circuit 503 to update the value of the random R.

  In step S15, the CPU 56 sets a register of the CTC built in the game control microcomputer 560 so that a timer interrupt is periodically taken every predetermined time (for example, 2 ms). That is, a value corresponding to, for example, 2 ms is set in a predetermined register (time constant register) as an initial value. In this embodiment, it is assumed that a timer interrupt is periodically taken every 2 ms.

  When the execution of the initialization process (steps S10 to S15) is completed, the CPU 56 repeatedly executes the display random number update process (step S17) and the initial value random number update process (step S18) in the main process. When the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process are executed, the interrupt disabled state is set (step S16). Set (step S19). In this embodiment, the display random number is a random number for determining the stop symbol of the special symbol when it is not a big hit, or a random number for determining whether to reach when it is not a big hit, The random number update process is a process for updating the count value of the counter for generating the display random number. The initial value random number update process is a process for updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number. In this embodiment, the initial value random number is the initial value of the count value of the counter for generating a random number for determining whether or not to win for a normal symbol (normal random number generation counter for normal symbol determination). It is a random number to determine. A game control process for controlling the progress of the game, which will be described later (the game control microcomputer 560 controls game devices such as an effect display device, a variable winning ball device, a ball payout device, etc. provided in the game machine itself. In the process of transmitting a command signal to be controlled by another microcomputer, or a game machine control process), the count value of the random number for determination per normal symbol is one round (the random number for determination per normal symbol is taken). When the value is incremented by the number of values between the minimum value and the maximum value of the possible values), an initial value is set in the counter.

  In this embodiment, the reach effect is executed using an effect symbol variably displayed on the effect display device 9. Further, when the display result of the special symbol is a jackpot symbol, the reach effect is always executed. When the display result of the special symbol is not a jackpot symbol, the game control microcomputer 560 determines whether or not to execute the reach effect by lottery using a random number. However, it is the production control microcomputer 100 that actually executes the reach production control.

  When the timer interrupt occurs, the CPU 56 executes the timer interrupt process of steps S20 to S34 shown in FIG. In the timer interrupt process, first, a power-off detection process for detecting whether or not a power-off signal is output (whether or not an on-state is turned on) is executed (step S20). The power-off signal is output, for example, when a power supply monitoring circuit mounted on the power supply board detects a decrease in the voltage of the power supplied to the gaming machine. In the power-off detection process, when detecting that the power-off signal is output, the CPU 56 executes a power supply stop process for saving necessary data in the backup RAM area. Next, detection signals from the gate switch 32a, the first start port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a, and the count switch 23 are input via the input driver circuit 58, and their state is determined (switch processing: step S21). ).

  Next, the CPU 56 has a first special symbol display 8a, a second special symbol display 8b, a normal symbol display 10, a first special symbol hold storage display 18a, a second special symbol hold storage display 18b, a normal symbol. A display control process for controlling the display of the on-hold storage display 41 is executed (step S22). About the 1st special symbol display 8a, the 2nd special symbol display 8b, and the normal symbol display 10, a drive signal is output with respect to each display according to the content of the output buffer set by step S32, S33. Execute control.

  In addition, a process of updating the count value of each counter for generating each random number for determination such as a random number for determination per ordinary symbol used for game control is performed (determination random number update process: step S23). The CPU 56 further performs a process of updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number and the display random number (initial value random number update process, display random number update process: steps S24 and S25).

  Further, the CPU 56 performs special symbol process processing (step S26). In the special symbol process, corresponding processing is executed in accordance with a special symbol process flag for controlling the first special symbol indicator 8a, the second special symbol indicator 8b, and the big prize opening in a predetermined order. The CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag according to the gaming state.

  Next, normal symbol process processing is performed (step S27). In the normal symbol process, the CPU 56 executes a corresponding process according to the normal symbol process flag for controlling the display state of the normal symbol display 10 in a predetermined order. The CPU 56 updates the value of the normal symbol process flag according to the gaming state.

  Further, the CPU 56 performs a process of sending an effect control command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (effect control command control process: step S28).

  Further, the CPU 56 performs information output processing for outputting data such as jackpot information, start information, probability variation information supplied to the hall management computer, for example (step S29).

  Further, the CPU 56 executes a prize ball process for setting the number of prize balls based on detection signals from the first start port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a, and the count switch 23 (step S30). Specifically, the payout control micro mounted on the payout control board 37 in response to the winning detection based on any one of the first start port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a and the count switch 23 being turned on. A payout control command (prize ball number signal) indicating the number of prize balls is output to the computer. The payout control microcomputer drives the ball payout device 97 in accordance with a payout control command indicating the number of winning balls.

  In this embodiment, a RAM area (output port buffer) corresponding to the output state of the output port is provided. However, the CPU 56 relates to on / off of the solenoid in the RAM area corresponding to the output state of the output port. The contents are output to the output port (step S31: output process).

  Further, the CPU 56 performs a special symbol display control process for setting special symbol display control data for effect display of special symbols in the output buffer for setting the special symbol display control data according to the value of the special symbol process flag ( Step S32). For example, if the variation speed is 1 frame / 0.2 seconds until the end flag is set when the start flag set in the special symbol process is set, the CPU 56, for example, every 0.2 seconds passes. Then, the value of the display control data set in the output buffer is incremented by one. Further, the CPU 56 outputs a drive signal in step S22 in accordance with the display control data set in the output buffer, whereby the first special symbol on the first special symbol display 8a and the second special symbol display 8b and Variable display of the second special symbol is executed.

  Further, the CPU 56 performs a normal symbol display control process for setting normal symbol display control data for effect display of the normal symbol in an output buffer for setting the normal symbol display control data according to the value of the normal symbol process flag ( Step S33). For example, when the start flag related to the variation of the normal symbol is set, the CPU 56 switches the display state (“◯” and “×”) for the variation rate of the normal symbol every 0.2 seconds until the end flag is set. With such a speed, the value of the display control data set in the output buffer (for example, 1 indicating “◯” and 0 indicating “x”) is switched every 0.2 seconds. Further, the CPU 56 outputs a normal signal on the normal symbol display 10 by outputting a drive signal in step S22 in accordance with the display control data set in the output buffer.

Thereafter, the interrupt permission state is set (step S34), and the process is terminated.
With the above control, in this embodiment, the game control process is started every 2 ms. The game control process corresponds to the processes in steps S21 to S33 (excluding step S29) in the timer interrupt process. In this embodiment, the game control process is executed by the timer interrupt process. However, in the timer interrupt process, for example, only a flag indicating that an interrupt has occurred is set, and the game control process is performed by the main process. May be executed.

  When the shifted symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b and the effect display device 9, the variable display state of the effect symbol is started after the variable display of the effect symbol is started. There may be a case where a predetermined combination of effects that does not reach reach is stopped and displayed without reaching reach. Such a variable display mode of the effect symbol is referred to as a variable display mode of “non-reach” (also referred to as “normally shift”) in a case where the variable display result is a loss symbol.

  When the shifted symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b and the effect display device 9, the variable display state of the effect symbol is started after the variable display of the effect symbol is started. After reaching the reach state, a reach effect is executed, and a combination of predetermined effect symbols that do not eventually become a jackpot symbol may be stopped and displayed. Such a variable display result of the effect design is referred to as a variable display mode of “reach” (also referred to as “reach out”) when the variable display result is “out of”.

  In this embodiment, when the big win symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b, the reach effect is executed after the variable display state of the effect symbol becomes the reach state. Eventually, the effect symbols are all stopped and displayed in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” symbol display areas 9L, 9C, and 9R on the effect display device 9.

  When “5”, which is a small hit, is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b, the effect display variable display mode is “suddenly probable big hit” on the effect display device 9. In the same manner as in the case where the effect symbol is variably displayed, a predetermined small hit symbol (the same symbol as the sudden probability variation big hit symbol, for example, "135") may be stopped and displayed. The display effect in the effect display device 9 corresponding to the fact that “5”, which is the small hit symbol, is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol indicator 8b is referred to as a “small hit” variable display mode. .

  Here, the small win is a hit that is allowed up to a small number of times that the big winning opening is opened compared to the big win (in this embodiment, the opening for 0.1 second is twice). When the small hit game ends, the game state does not change. That is, there is no transition from the probability variation state to the normal state or from the normal state to the certain variation state. In addition, the sudden probability change big hit is allowed up to a small number of times of opening of the big prize opening in the big hit gaming state (in this embodiment, the opening for 0.1 second is twice), but the opening time of the big prize opening is extremely large. It is a big jackpot that is a short jackpot and the game state after the big jackpot game is shifted to a probabilistic state (that is, by doing so, it appears to the player as if it suddenly became a probable state) Is). In other words, in this embodiment, the sudden winning odds and the small wins have the same opening pattern of the big prize opening. By controlling in such a way, if the winning opening is opened twice for 0.1 seconds, it is impossible to recognize whether it is suddenly a big hit or a small hit, so a high probability state for the player (Probable change state) can be expected, and the interest of the game can be improved.

  FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing the variation pattern of the effect symbol prepared in advance. As shown in FIG. 6, in this embodiment, the variable display result is “displacement” and the variation pattern corresponding to the case where the variable display mode of the effect design does not involve the reach state, the shortened non-reach shift and the non-reach shift Is prepared. In addition, as a variation pattern corresponding to the case where the variable display result is “out of” and the variable display mode of the production symbol is associated with the reach state, normal deviation, pseudo-ream 1 normal deviation, super-relief, pseudo-ream 2 super-off and pseudo-ream Three supermarkets are prepared. Note that, as shown in FIG. 6, in the variation pattern accompanied by the effect of the pseudo-continuous, when the pseudo-continuous 1 normal deviation is used, the re-variation is performed once. In addition, in the variation pattern accompanied with the effect of the pseudo-continuous, when the deviation from the super-continuous 2 super is used, the re-variation is performed twice. Furthermore, in the case of using the deviation from the pseudo-continuation 3 supermarket among the variation patterns accompanied with the effect of the pseudo-continuation, the re-variation is performed three times. Note that the re-variation means that the variable display of the effect symbol is executed again after temporarily stopping the effect symbol that is once deviated from the start of the variable display of the effect symbol until the display result is derived and displayed. . In addition, among the variation patterns shown in FIG. 6, the shortened non-reach deviation is a variation pattern for shortening that has a shorter variation time than the non-reach deviation provided corresponding to the non-reach deviation.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 6, in this embodiment, as a variation pattern corresponding to the case where the variable symbol display result of the special symbol is a normal big hit or a probable big hit, a normal hit, a pseudo-ream, a super-per Two supermarkets and three pseudo-supermarkets are available. In addition, as shown in FIG. 8, when the normal pattern per pseudo-continuous is used among the fluctuation patterns accompanied by the pseudo-continuous effects, the re-variation is performed once. In addition, among the variation patterns accompanied by the effect of the pseudo-ream, when the per-ream 2 supermarket is used, the re-variation is performed twice. Further, among the variation patterns accompanied by the effect of the pseudo-ream, when using the per-ream 3 supermarket, the re-variation is performed three times.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 6, in this embodiment, special hits are prepared as variation patterns corresponding to the case where the variable symbol display result of special symbols suddenly becomes a big hit or a small hit.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6, when the variation time is fixedly determined according to the type of reach (for example, in the case of super reach with pseudo-ream (three times)) The time is fixed at 40 seconds, and the fluctuation time is fixed at 25 seconds in the case of super reach without pseudo-ream). The variation time may be varied according to the number of reserved storage. For example, even with the same type of super reach, the variation time may be shortened as the total number of pending storage increases. Also, for example, even in the case of the same type of super reach, when the variable display of the first special symbol is performed, the variable time may be varied according to the first reserved memory number. When the variable display of the two special symbols is performed, the variable time may be varied according to the second reserved memory number. In this case, separate tables are prepared for each value of the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory number (for example, the variation pattern determination table for the reserved memory numbers 0 to 2 and the reserved memory numbers 3 and 4 are used. A variation pattern determination table may be prepared), and a determination table may be selected according to the value of the first reserved memory number or the second reserved memory number to vary the variation time.

  Further, in this embodiment, the variation time is different between when the game state is the normal state and when the game state is the short-time state (in the example shown in FIG. 6, when the short-time state is present). Is determined so that the rate at which “shortened non-reach out” is selected, which has a shorter variation time than other variation patterns, is not limited to this. Even so, the variation time may be different depending on the total number of pending storages (that is, the rate at which a variation pattern with a short variation time is selected varies). For example, the variation time may be shortened (that is, the rate at which a variation pattern with a short variation time is selected increases) as the total number of pending storage increases. Further, for example, when the variable display of the first special symbol is performed, the variable time is varied according to the number of the first reserved memory (that is, the ratio at which the variable pattern with the short variable time is selected is varied). Alternatively, in the case of performing the variation display of the second special symbol, the variation time is varied according to the second reserved memory number (that is, the proportion of variation patterns having a short variation time is selected). You may do it. In this case, separate tables are prepared for each value of the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory number (for example, the variation pattern determination table for the reserved memory numbers 0 to 2 and the reserved memory numbers 3 and 4 are used. A variation pattern determination table may be prepared), and a determination table may be selected according to the value of the first reserved memory number or the second reserved memory number to vary the variation time.

  When configured to use a different variation pattern determination table depending on the number of reserved storage, for example, the variation pattern determination table used when the display result is out of order and the total number of reserved storage is 3 or more is Compared to the variation pattern determination table used when the number of memories is 0 to 2, determination values are assigned so that the ratio of reach (normal reach, super reach) is reduced. In addition, the variation pattern determination table used when the total number of pending storages is 3 or more has a determination value that increases the rate at which “shortened non-reach out” is selected that has a shorter variation time than other variation patterns. Is set. As a result, the average fluctuation time can be shortened as the total number of pending storage increases, and a situation where the variable display operating rate is reduced can be prevented as much as possible.

  In addition, there are specific effects (for example, super reach) in the variation pattern determination table used when the total number of reserved storage is 3 or more and the variation pattern determination table used when the total number of stored storage is 0-2. ) Is assigned a common determination value (for example, 950 to 997). Therefore, regardless of the total number of pending storage (that is, even if the variation pattern determination table to be used is different), at the time of starting winning, as long as the value of the extracted random number for variation pattern type determination (random 2) is confirmed, a specific effect ( For example, it can be easily determined in advance whether or not it is accompanied by super reach. Therefore, prior to the variable display corresponding to the start winning prize, it can be notified that a specific effect (for example, super reach) is accompanied (for example, an effect control command indicating that effect is sent to the effect control microcomputer 100). This is realized by executing an effect such as a pre-reading effect in the effect control microcomputer 100 that has transmitted and received the effect control command), and can enhance the interest in the game.

  In addition, although the case where the allocation of the determination value is different is shown for two types of the total pending storage number being 0 to 2 or 3 or more, for example, according to the total pending storage number Further, the assignment may be changed in a stepwise manner. In this case, for example, the fluctuation pattern determination table for the total pending storage number 0, 1 and the fluctuation pattern determination table for the total pending storage number 2, the total pending storage number 3 and the total pending storage number 4 May be prepared in advance, and determination values may be assigned to fluctuation patterns with reach and fluctuation patterns of shortening fluctuations, and may be varied in stages.

  FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing each random number. Each random number is used as follows. (1) Random 1 (MR1): Determines the type of jackpot (ordinary jackpot, probability variation jackpot, sudden probability variation jackpot described later) (for jackpot type determination) (2) Random 3 (MR3): variation pattern (variation time) Decide (for variation pattern determination) (3) Random 4 (MR4): Decide whether or not to generate a hit based on normal symbols (for normal symbol hit determination) (4) Random 5 (MR5): Initial of random 4 A value is determined (for determining a random 4 initial value).

  In this embodiment, the variation pattern is determined as any variation pattern included in the variation pattern determination table using a variation pattern determination random number (random 3).

  In step S23 in the game control process shown in FIG. 5, the game control microcomputer 560 uses a counter for generating the jackpot type determination random number (1) and the random number for determination per ordinary symbol (4). Count up (add 1). That is, they are determination random numbers, and other random numbers are display random numbers (random 3) or initial value random numbers (random 5). In addition, in order to improve a game effect, you may use random numbers other than said random number. In this embodiment, a random number generated by hardware incorporated in the game control microcomputer 560 (or hardware external to the game control microcomputer 560) is used as the jackpot determination random number.

  FIG. 8A is an explanatory diagram showing a jackpot determination table. The jackpot determination table is a collection of data stored in the ROM 54 and is a table in which a jackpot determination value to be compared with the random R is set. The jackpot determination table includes a normal-time jackpot determination table used in a normal state (a gaming state that is not a probability change state) and a probability change jackpot determination table used in a probability change state. Each value described in the left column of FIG. 8 (A) is set in the normal jackpot determination table, and each value described in the right column of FIG. 8 (A) is set in the probability change jackpot determination table. Is set. The numerical value described in FIG. 8A is a jackpot determination value.

  8B and 8C are explanatory diagrams showing a small hit determination table. The small hit determination table is a collection of data stored in the ROM 54 and is a table in which a small hit determination value to be compared with the random R is set. The small hit determination table includes a small hit determination table (for the first special symbol) used when the variable display of the first special symbol is performed, and a small hit determination table used when the variable display of the second special symbol is performed. (For the second special symbol). Each value described in FIG. 8B is set in the small hit determination table (for the first special symbol), and in the small hit determination table (for the second special symbol), the values shown in FIG. Each numerical value listed is set. Moreover, the numerical values described in FIGS. 8B and 8C are small hit determination values.

  The CPU 56 extracts the count value of the random number circuit 503 at a predetermined time and sets the extracted value as the value of the big hit determination random number (random R). The big hit determination random number is shown in FIG. If it matches any of the big hit determination values, the special symbol is decided to be a big hit (a normal big hit, a probable variation big hit, or a sudden probable big hit described later). Further, when the big hit determination random number value matches one of the small hit determination values shown in FIGS. 8B and 8C, it is determined to make a small hit for the special symbol. Note that the “probability” shown in FIG. 8A indicates the probability (ratio) of a big hit. Further, “probabilities” shown in FIGS. 8B and 8C indicate the probability (ratio) of small hits. Further, deciding whether or not to win a jackpot means deciding whether or not to shift to the jackpot gaming state, but the stop symbol in the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b is determined. It also means deciding whether or not to make a jackpot symbol. Further, determining whether or not to make a small hit means determining whether or not to shift to the small hit gaming state, but stopping in the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b. It also means determining whether or not the symbol is to be a small hit symbol.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 8B and 8C, when the small hit determination table (for the first special symbol) is used, the small hit is determined at a ratio of 1/300. On the other hand, a case where a small hit is determined at a ratio of 1/3000 when the small hit determination table (second special symbol) is used will be described. Therefore, in this embodiment, when the start winning prize is given to the first start winning opening 13 and the first special symbol variation display is executed, the start winning prize is given to the second starting winning prize slot 14 and the second special symbol is displayed. The ratio determined as “small hit” is higher than when the variable display is executed.

  FIGS. 8D and 8E are explanatory diagrams showing the jackpot type determination tables 131a and 131b stored in the ROM 54. FIG. Among these, FIG. 8 (D) determines the jackpot type using the hold memory based on the game ball having won the first start winning opening 13 (that is, when the variable display of the first special symbol is performed). This is a jackpot type determination table (for the first special symbol) 131a. Further, FIG. 8E shows a case where the jackpot type is determined using the holding memory based on the fact that the game ball has won the second start winning opening 14 (that is, when the variation display of the second special symbol is performed). Is a jackpot type determination table (for the second special symbol) 131b.

  The jackpot type determination tables 131a and 131b, when it is determined that the variable display result is a jackpot symbol, based on the random number (random 1) for determining the jackpot type, the jackpot type is set to “normal jackpot”, “ This table is referred to in order to determine one of “probability big hit” and “sudden probability big hit”. In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 8D and 8E, ten determination values are assigned to “suddenly probable big hit” in the big hit type determination table 131a (40 minutes). 3 is assigned to the jackpot type determination table 131b for “sudden probability change big hit” (a ratio of 3/40). Will suddenly be determined to be a promising big hit). Therefore, in this embodiment, when the first special symbol variation display is executed by starting the first start winning port 13 and the second special symbol of the second special symbol is displayed. Compared with the case where the variable display is executed, the ratio determined as “suddenly probable big hit” is high. Note that “sudden probability variation big hit” is assigned only to the first special symbol jackpot type determination table 131a, and “sudden probability variation big hit” is not assigned to the second special symbol big hit type determination table 131b (ie, It may be determined that “suddenly probable big hit” may be determined only when the variable display of the first special symbol is performed. Note that the determination values set in the table are different from each other and are not assigned redundantly.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 8D and 8E, as the first specific gaming state to which a predetermined amount of gaming value is given, there are two rounds of sudden probabilistic big hits and more than the gaming value. The case where 15 rounds of big hit (probable big hit or normal big hit) is determined as the second specific gaming state to which the amount of gaming value is given will be explained. However, when the variable display of the first special symbol is executed, Although the case where it is determined to be one specific gaming state is shown, the gaming value to be given is not limited to the number of rounds as shown in this embodiment. For example, as compared with the first specific gaming state, the second specific gaming state in which the allowable amount of the winning number (count number) of game balls to the big winning opening per round is increased as the gaming value is determined. Also good. Further, for example, as compared with the first specific gaming state, the second specific gaming state in which the opening time of the big winning opening per game during the big hit may be determined as the gaming value. In addition, for example, even if the same 15 round big hits, the first specific gaming state that opens the big winning opening once per round and the second specific gaming state that opens the big winning opening multiple times per round It may be prepared to increase the gaming value of the second specific gaming state by substantially increasing the number of times the special winning opening is opened. In this case, for example, in any case of the first specific gaming state or the second specific gaming state, when the big winning opening is opened 15 times (in this case, all 15 rounds in the case of the first specific gaming state) In the case of the second specific gaming state, there is an undigested round remaining), and it is possible to execute an effect in such a manner as to inquire whether or not the jackpot continues further. And in the case of the first specific gaming state, all the 15 rounds have been finished internally, so the big hit game is finished, and in the case of the second specific gaming state, there remains an undigested round internally. For this reason, the jackpot game may be continued (the effect that the bonus winning opening is additionally started with a bonus after finishing the bonus hit of 15 times).

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 8D and 8E, the types of jackpots include “normal jackpot”, “probability variation jackpot”, and “sudden probability variation jackpot”.

  The “probable big hit” is a big hit that is controlled to 15 rounds of the big hit gaming state and shifts to the probable change state after the big hit gaming state is finished (in this embodiment, the game is changed to the probable change state and the short time state is also entered. (See steps S170 and S171 described later). After the transition to the probability variation state, the probability variation state is maintained until the next big hit occurs (see step S134 described later).

  In addition, the “ordinary big hit” is a big hit that is controlled to the big round gaming state of 15 rounds and is not shifted to the probability change state after the big hit gaming state is ended, but is shifted only to the short time state (see step S167 described later). . Then, after shifting to the time reduction state, the time reduction state is maintained until the execution of the variable symbol display of the special symbol and the effect symbol is completed a predetermined number of times (for example, 100 times) (see steps S142 to S145 described later). In this embodiment, the time reduction state also ends when a big hit occurs after the transition to the time reduction state and before the execution of the predetermined number of variable displays is ended (see step S134 described later).

  In addition, “suddenly promising big hit” means that the number of times of opening the big winning opening is smaller than in “probable big hit” or “normal big hit” (in this embodiment, opening for 0.1 second is allowed twice). Is a big hit. In other words, when “suddenly promising big hit”, the game is controlled to a two round big hit gaming state. In this embodiment, after the two-round jackpot gaming state is finished, the state is changed to the probability changing state (in this embodiment, the state is changed to the probability changing state and also to the short time state. Step S170 to be described later). , S171). After the transition to the probability variation state, the probability variation state is maintained until the next big hit occurs (see step S134 described later).

  As described above, in this embodiment, even in the case of “small hit”, the big winning opening is opened twice for 0.1 seconds each, Similar control is performed. In the case of “small hit”, the game state does not change after the opening of the big winning opening twice, and the game state before “small hit” is maintained (described later). Steps S147 to S151). By doing so, it is made impossible to recognize whether it is “suddenly promising big hit” or “small hit”, and the interest of the game is improved.

  The big hit type determination tables 131a and 131b are numerical values to be compared with a random 1 value, and corresponding to the “normal big hit”, “probability variable big hit”, and “sudden probable big hit” (big hit type determination value) ) Is set. When the value of random 1 matches any of the jackpot type determination values, the CPU 56 determines the jackpot type as a type corresponding to the matched jackpot type determination value.

  FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing a variation pattern determination table stored in the ROM 54. The variation pattern determination table is a table that is referred to in order to determine a variation pattern as one of a plurality of types based on a random number for random pattern determination (random 3) according to the type of jackpot or gaming state. is there. When the extracted random 3 (1 to 997) value matches the data (determination value) assigned to each fluctuation pattern, the CPU 56 changes the fluctuation pattern to a pattern corresponding to the matching judgment value of the fluctuation pattern. decide. In the example shown in FIG. 9, the ratio of the determination value assigned to each variation pattern is shown. For example, when it is determined that the variable display result is “out” in the normal gaming state (“out” field in FIG. 9), the determination value corresponding to the random value 3 (1 to 997) is set. 50% of them are set to the fluctuation pattern “non-reach”. That is, in the example shown in FIG. 9, each value set in the variation pattern determination table has a variable display result of “out of”, “out of phase (short time)”, “normal big hit / probable big hit” or “sudden probable big hit / In the case of “small hit”, the ratio determined to the associated variation pattern is shown.

  As shown in FIG. 9, for example, when it is determined that the variable display result is “out” in the normal gaming state (“out” field in FIG. 9), among a plurality of types of variation patterns, The ratio determined as “non-reach out” is the highest, and the ratio determined as “pseudo-continuous 3 super out” is the lowest. Further, for example, when it is determined that the variable display result is “out” in the time reduction state (the “out (time reduction)” field in FIG. 9), unlike the “out” field, The determination value is assigned such that the ratio of “reach out of shortened non-reach” is high without being determined as “reach out of reach”. By setting in this way, it becomes easy to select a variation pattern with a short variation time in the short time state.

  In addition, when it is determined that the variable display result is “normal big hit” or “probable big hit” (the “normal big hit / probable big hit” field in FIG. 9), The determination values are assigned such that the ratio determined to be “per pseudo-series 3 super” is the highest and the ratio determined to be “per pseudo-normal 1 normal” is the lowest. That is, in the “ordinary big hit / probable big hit” field, the fluctuation pattern having the larger number of pseudo-continuations among the fluctuation patterns accompanied with the pseudo-continuous effects is easily selected. Therefore, in the pseudo-continuous effect, the expectation that the variable display result is a big hit is higher when the number of pseudo-reams is larger. In addition, in the example shown in FIG. 9, the fluctuation pattern with normal reach (normal deviation, quasi-ream 1 normal deviation, per normal and quasi-ream 1 normal) is the fluctuation pattern with super reach (super detachment, pseudo-ream 2 super deviation). In addition, the variable display result is more easily selected as “out of” than in the case of pseudo-ream 3 super, per super, per pseudo-super 2 and per pseudo-ream 3 super. On the other hand, the fluctuation pattern with super reach (super off, pseudo 2 super off, pseudo 3 super off, per super, pseudo 2 super and 3 super super) is the fluctuation pattern with normal reach (normal off). This is more likely to be selected when the variable display result is “normal big hit” or “probable big hit” than “pseudo continuous 1 normal deviation”. Therefore, in this embodiment, the variation pattern with super reach has a higher expectation that the variable display result will be a big hit than the variation pattern with normal reach.

  Further, in the example shown in FIG. 9, when it is determined that the variable display result is “sudden probability change big hit” or “small hit” (the “sudden probability change big hit / small hit” field in FIG. 9), The fluctuation pattern is determined as “special hit”.

  10 and 11 are explanatory diagrams showing an example of the contents of the effect control command transmitted by the game control microcomputer 560. FIG. In the example shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the command 80XX (H) is an effect control command (variation pattern command) that specifies a variation pattern of the effect symbol that is variably displayed on the effect display device 9 in response to variable display of the special symbol. (Each corresponding to a variation pattern XX). That is, when a unique number is assigned to each of the usable variation patterns shown in FIG. 6, there is a variation pattern command corresponding to each variation pattern specified by the number. “(H)” indicates a hexadecimal number. The effect control command for designating the variation pattern is also a command for designating the start of variation. Therefore, when the effect control microcomputer 100 receives the command 80XX (H), the effect display device 9 controls the effect display device 9 to start variable display of the effect symbols.

  Commands 8C01 (H) to 8C05 (H) are effect control commands indicating whether or not to make a big hit, whether or not to make a big hit, and a big hit type. The effect control microcomputer 100 determines the display result of the effect symbols in response to the reception of the commands 8C01 (H) to 8C05 (H), so the commands 8C01 (H) to 8C05 (H) are referred to as display result designation commands.

  Command 8D01 (H) is an effect control command (first symbol variation designation command) indicating that variable display (variation) of the first special symbol is started. Command 8D02 (H) is an effect control command (second symbol variation designation command) indicating that variable display (variation) of the second special symbol is started. The first symbol variation designation command and the second symbol variation designation command may be collectively referred to as a special symbol specifying command (or symbol variation designation command). Note that information indicating whether to start variable display of the first special symbol or variable display of the second special symbol may be included in the variation pattern command.

  The command 8F00 (H) is an effect control command (symbol confirmation designation command) indicating that the variable display (fluctuation) of the effect symbol is terminated and the display result (stop symbol) is derived and displayed. When receiving the symbol confirmation designation command, the effect control microcomputer 100 ends the variable display (fluctuation) of the effect symbol and derives and displays the display result.

  Command 9000 (H) is an effect control command (initialization designation command: power-on designation command) transmitted when power supply to the gaming machine is started. Command 9200 (H) is an effect control command (power failure recovery designation command) transmitted when power supply to the gaming machine is resumed. When the power supply to the gaming machine is started, the gaming control microcomputer 560 transmits a power failure recovery designation command if data is stored in the backup RAM, and if not, initialization designation is performed. Send a command.

  Command 95XX (H) is an effect control command (winning time determination result designation command) indicating the contents of the winning time determination result. In this embodiment, in a winning effect process (see FIG. 16), which will be described later, the game control microcomputer 560 determines which variation pattern is to be used when starting a winning. Then, a value for specifying the variation pattern as the determination result is set in the EXT data of the determination result specifying result command at the time of winning, and control for transmission to the production control microcomputer 100 is performed.

  FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the contents of a winning determination result specifying command. As shown in FIG. 12, in this embodiment, a value is set in the EXT data in accordance with which variation pattern is determined at the time of starting winning and a winning determination result designation command is transmitted. For example, when it is determined that the variation pattern is “out of shortened non-reach” at the time of starting winning at the first starting winning opening 13 or the second starting winning opening 14, a winning with “01 (H)” set in the EXT data is set. A time determination result designation command is transmitted. Further, for example, when it is determined that the variation pattern is “special hit” at the time of starting winning at the first starting winning opening 13 or the second starting winning opening 14, a winning having “13 (H)” set in the EXT data is set. A time determination result designation command is transmitted.

  Command 9F00 (H) is an effect control command (customer waiting demonstration designation command) for designating a customer waiting demonstration.

  The commands A001 to A003 (H) are effect control commands for displaying the fanfare screen, that is, designating the start of the big hit game (big hit start designation command: fanfare designation command). The jackpot start designation command includes a jackpot start 1 designation command, a jackpot start designation 2 designation command, and a small hit / sudden probability sudden change jackpot start designation command corresponding to the type of jackpot. It should be noted that the game control microcomputer 560 may be configured to transmit a fanfare designation command for suddenly probable big hit start designation in the case of a sudden big hit, but not to send a fanfare designation command in the case of a small hit. Good.

  The command A1XX (H) is an effect control command (special command during opening of a big winning opening) indicating a display during the opening of the big winning opening for the number of times (round) indicated by XX. A2XX (H) is an effect control command (designation command after opening the big winning opening) indicating the closing of the big winning opening for the number of times (round) indicated by XX.

  The command A301 (H) is an effect control command for displaying the jackpot end screen, that is, the end of the jackpot game and specifying that the jackpot game is normally a big jackpot (a jackpot end 1 designation command: an ending 1 designation command). is there. Command A302 (H) is an effect control command for displaying the jackpot end screen, that is, the end of the jackpot game and specifying that it is a probable big hit (big hit end 2 designation command: ending 2 designation command). is there. Command A 303 (H) is an effect control command (small hit / sudden probability sudden change big hit end designation command: ending 3 designation command) that designates the end of the small hit game or the sudden probability change big hit game. The game control microcomputer 560 may be configured to transmit an ending designation command for suddenly probable big hit end designation in the case of a sudden big hit, but not to send an ending designation command in the case of a small hit. Good.

  Command B000 (H) is an effect control command (normal state designation command) that designates that the gaming state is a normal state. Command B001 (H) is an effect control command (time-short state designation command) for designating that the gaming state is a time-short state (not including the probability variation state). Command B002 (H) is an effect control command (probability change state designation command) for designating that the gaming state is a probability change state.

  Command C0XX (H) is an effect control command (first reserved memory number designation command) for designating the first reserved memory number. “XX” in the command C0XX (H) indicates the first reserved storage number. Command C1XX (H) is an effect control command (second reserved memory number designation command) that designates the second reserved memory number. “XX” in the command C1XX (H) indicates the second reserved storage number.

  The effect control microcomputer 100 (specifically, the effect control CPU 101) mounted on the effect control board 80 receives the above-described effect control command from the game control microcomputer 560 mounted on the main board 31. Then, the display state of the image display device 9 is changed according to the contents shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the display state of the lamp is changed, and the sound number data is output to the sound output board 70. To do.

  For example, the game control microcomputer 560 designates the variation pattern of the effect symbol whenever there is a start prize and variable display of the special symbol is started on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b. The variation pattern command and the display result designation command are transmitted to the production control microcomputer 100.

  In this embodiment, the effect control command has a 2-byte structure, the first byte represents MODE (command classification), and the second byte represents EXT (command type). The first bit (bit 7) of the MODE data is always set to “1”, and the first bit (bit 7) of the EXT data is always set to “0”. Note that such a command form is an example, and other command forms may be used. For example, a control command composed of 1 byte or 3 bytes or more may be used.

  In addition, as the transmission method of the effect control command, the effect control command data is output from the main board 31 to the effect control board 80 via the relay board 77 by the eight parallel signal lines of the effect control signals CD0 to CD7, In addition to the effect control command data, a method of outputting a pulse-shaped (rectangular wave-shaped) capture signal (effect control INT signal) for instructing capture of the effect control command data is used. The 8-bit effect control command data of the effect control command is output in synchronization with the effect control INT signal. The effect control microcomputer 100 mounted on the effect control board 80 detects that the effect control INT signal has risen, and starts a 1-byte data capturing process through an interrupt process.

  In the example shown in FIG. 10 and FIG. 11, the variable pattern command and the display result designation command are displayed as variable display (variation) of the effect symbol corresponding to the variation of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display 8a and the second special symbol. Image display that can be used in common with variable display (variation) of the effect symbol corresponding to the variation of the second special symbol on the symbol display 8b, and that produces an effect with the variable display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol. It is possible to prevent an increase in the types of commands transmitted from the game control microcomputer 560 to the effect control microcomputer 100 when controlling the effect parts such as the device 9.

  FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a special symbol process (step S26) program executed by the game control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) mounted on the main board 31. As described above, in the special symbol process, a process for controlling the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b and the special winning opening is executed. In the special symbol process, the CPU 56 turns on the first start opening switch 13a for detecting that the game ball has won the first start winning opening 13 or if the game ball is inserted into the second start winning opening 14. If the second start opening switch 14a for detecting that a winning has been made, that is, if a start winning to the first start winning opening 13 or the second start winning opening 14 has occurred, the start opening switch passing process is performed. Are executed (steps S311 and S312). Then, any one of steps S300 to S310 is performed. If the first start winning port switch 13a or the second start port switch 14a is not turned on, any one of steps S300 to S310 is performed according to the internal state.

The processes in steps S300 to S310 are as follows.
Special symbol normal processing (step S300): Executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is zero. When the game control microcomputer 560 is in a state where variable display of the special symbol can be started, the game control microcomputer 560 checks the number of numerical data stored in the reserved storage number buffer (total number of reserved storage). The stored number of numerical data stored in the pending storage number buffer can be confirmed by the count value of the total pending storage number counter. If the count value of the total pending storage number counter is not 0, it is determined whether or not the display result of the variable display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol is a big hit. In case of big hit, set big hit flag. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (1 in this example) according to step S301. The jackpot flag is reset when the jackpot game ends.

  Fluctuation pattern setting process (step S301): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 1. Also, the variation pattern is determined, and the variation time in the variation pattern (variable display time: the time from the start of variable display until the display result is derived and displayed (stop display)) is defined as the variation display variation time of the special symbol. Decide to do. Also, a variable time timer for measuring the special symbol variable time is started. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (2 in this example) corresponding to step S302.

  Display result designation command transmission process (step S302): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 2. Control for transmitting a display result designation command to the production control microcomputer 100 is performed. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (3 in this example) corresponding to step S303.

  Special symbol changing process (step S303): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 3. When the variation time of the variation pattern selected in the variation pattern setting process elapses (the variation time timer set in step S301 times out, that is, the variation time timer value becomes 0), the internal state (special symbol process flag) is stepped. Update to a value corresponding to S304 (4 in this example).

  Special symbol stop process (step S304): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 4. The variable display on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b is stopped, and the stop symbol is derived and displayed. In addition, control for transmitting a symbol confirmation designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 is performed. If the big hit flag is set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (5 in this example) corresponding to step S305. If the small hit flag is set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (8 in this example) corresponding to step S308. When neither the big hit flag nor the small hit flag is set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S300 (in this example, 0). The effect control microcomputer 100 controls the effect display device 9 to stop the effect symbol when receiving the symbol confirmation designation command transmitted by the game control microcomputer 560.

  Preliminary winning opening opening process (step S305): This is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 5. In the pre-opening process for the big prize opening, control for opening the big prize opening is performed. Specifically, a counter (for example, a counter that counts the number of game balls that have entered the big prize opening) is initialized and the solenoid 21 is driven to open the big prize opening. Also, the execution time of the special prize opening opening process is set by the timer, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S306 (6 in this example). The pre-opening process for the big winning opening is executed for each round, but when the first round is started, the pre-opening process for the big winning opening is also a process for starting the big hit game.

  Large winning opening opening process (step S306): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 6. A control for transmitting an effect control command for round display during the big hit gaming state to the effect control microcomputer 100, a process for confirming the completion of the closing condition of the big prize opening, and the like are performed. If the closing condition for the special prize opening is satisfied and there are still remaining rounds, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (5 in this example) corresponding to step S305. When all the rounds are completed, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S307 (7 in this example).

  Big hit end process (step S307): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 7. Control is performed to cause the microcomputer 100 for effect control to perform display control for notifying the player that the big hit gaming state has ended. In addition, a process for setting a flag indicating a gaming state (for example, a probability change flag or a time reduction flag) is performed. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (0 in this example) corresponding to step S300.

  Small hit release pre-processing (step S308): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 8. In the pre-opening process for small hits, control is performed to open the big prize opening. Specifically, a counter (for example, a counter that counts the number of game balls that have entered the big prize opening) is initialized and the solenoid 21 is driven to open the big prize opening. Also, the execution time of the special prize opening opening process is set by the timer, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S309 (9 in this example). It should be noted that the small hit pre-release process is executed for each round, but when the first round is started, the small hit pre-release process is a process for starting the small hit game.

  Small hit release processing (step S309): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 9. Processing to confirm the establishment of the closing condition of the big prize opening is performed. If the closing condition for the big prize opening is satisfied and there are still remaining rounds, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S308 (8 in this example). When all rounds are completed, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S310 (in this example, 10 (decimal number)).

  Small hit end processing (step S310): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 10. Control is performed to cause the microcomputer 100 for effect control to perform display control for notifying the player that the small hit gaming state has ended. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (0 in this example) corresponding to step S300.

  FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the start port switch passing process in step S312. In the start port switch passing process, the CPU 56 first checks whether or not the first start port switch 13a is in an ON state (step S1211). If the first start port switch 13a is not in the ON state, the process proceeds to step S1222. If the first start port switch 13a is on, the CPU 56 determines whether or not the first reserved memory number has reached the upper limit value (specifically, the first reserved memory for counting the first reserved memory number). Whether or not the value of the number counter is 4 is confirmed (step S1212). If the first reserved storage number has reached the upper limit value, the process proceeds to step S1222.

  If the first reserved memory number has not reached the upper limit value, the CPU 56 increases the value of the first reserved memory number counter by 1 (step S1213), and the value of the total reserved memory number counter for counting the total reserved memory number Is increased by 1 (step S1214). Further, the CPU 56 corresponds to the value of the total reserved memory number counter in the reserved storage specific information storage area (hold specific area) for storing the winning order to the first start winning opening 13 and the second start winning opening 14. Data indicating “first” is set in the area (step S1215).

  In this embodiment, when the first start opening switch 13a is turned on (that is, when a game ball starts and wins the first start winning opening 13), data indicating “first” is set, When the second start port switch 14a is turned on (that is, when a game ball starts and wins the second start winning port 14), data indicating “second” is set. For example, the CPU 56 sets 01 (H) as data indicating “first” when the first start port switch 13 a is turned on in the reserved storage specifying information storage area (holding specified area), and the first 2 When the start port switch 14a is turned on, 02 (H) is set as data indicating “second”. In this case, when there is no corresponding reserved storage, 00 (H) is set in the reserved storage specific information storage area (hold specific area).

  FIG. 15A is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of a reserved storage specifying information storage area (holding specified area). As shown in FIG. 15 (A), an area corresponding to the maximum value (8 in this example) of the value of the total reserved memory number counter is secured in the reserved specific area. FIG. 15A shows an example in which the value of the total pending storage number counter is 5. As shown in FIG. 15A, an area corresponding to the maximum value (8 in this example) of the total reserved memory number counter is secured in the reserved specific area. 2. Data indicating “first” or “second” is set in the order of winning based on winning in the starting winning port 14. Accordingly, in the reserved storage specific information storage area (hold specific area), the winning order to the first start winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14 is stored. Note that the reserved specific area is formed in the RAM 55.

  Next, the CPU 56 extracts values from the random number circuit 503 and a counter for generating software random numbers, and executes a process of storing them in a storage area in the first reserved storage buffer (see FIG. 15B) ( Step S1216). In the process of step S1216, a random R (big hit determination random number) that is a hardware random number and a big hit type determination random number (random 1 and a variation pattern determination random number (random 3)) that are software random numbers are extracted and stored. Note that the random number for random pattern determination (random 3) is not extracted and stored in the storage area in advance in the start opening switch passage process (at the time of start winning), but the fluctuation of the first special symbol is stored. For example, the game control microcomputer 560 may obtain a value from a variation pattern determination random number counter for generating a variation pattern determination random number (random 3) in a variation pattern setting process described later. May be directly extracted.

  FIG. 15B is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of an area (hold buffer) for storing random numbers and the like corresponding to the hold memory. As shown in FIG. 15B, a storage area corresponding to the upper limit value (4 in this example) of the first reserved storage number is secured in the first reserved storage buffer. In addition, a storage area corresponding to the upper limit value of the second reserved storage number (4 in this example) is secured in the second reserved storage buffer. In this embodiment, the first reserved storage buffer and the second reserved storage buffer include a random R (big hit determination random number) that is a hardware random number, a big hit type determination random number (random 1) that is a software random number, and a variation. A random number for pattern determination (random 3) is stored. The first reserved storage buffer and the second reserved storage buffer are formed in the RAM 55.

  Next, the CPU 56 executes prize-winning effect processing in which the fluctuation display result and the fluctuation pattern when the fluctuation based on the detected start winning is subsequently executed are determined in advance at the start winning (step S1217). Then, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a first reserved memory number designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 based on the value of the first reserved memory number counter, and then wins based on the determination result of the effect processing at the time of winning. Control for transmitting the time determination result designation command to the production control microcomputer 100 is performed (step S1218).

  By executing the process of step S1218, in this embodiment, regardless of the gaming state (whether it is a high probability state, a high base state, or a big hit gaming state), the CPU 56 Every time the first start winning opening 13 is won, both the first reserved memory number designation command and the winning determination result designation command are always transmitted to the production control microcomputer 100.

  In this embodiment, the first special symbol variation display or the second special symbol variation display is executed in accordance with the start winning order in which the game balls have won the first start winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14. However, it may be configured to preferentially execute the variable display of either one of the first special symbol and the second special symbol. For example, when the state is shifted to the high base state, it is easy to start winning at the second starting winning port 14 provided with the variable winning ball device 15 and the second reserved memory is easily accumulated. The variable display may be executed with priority. In this case, the process of step S1215 can be omitted, and the reserved storage specifying information storage area (holding specified area) shown in FIG. Also, in this case, the CPU 56 is not in the high base state (when the hourly flag is not set), and when the winning is based on starting winning at the first starting winning opening 13 on condition that the big hit game is not being played. An effect process (step S1217) may be performed. In other words, if the condition is not satisfied, the execution of the winning effect processing (step S1217) is restricted, and a pre-reading effect that predicts that the display result of a specific variable display becomes a big hit or super reach (for details, see (Described later) may not be executed. In the configuration in which the display of the variation of the second special symbol is performed with priority, in a game state in which it is easy to start the winning at the second starting winning port 14, the variation of the first special symbol based on the starting winning at the first starting winning port 13 Since the display may continue to be postponed, there is a possibility that even if the pre-reading effect is executed, a state in which the change display of the notice target is not executed easily occurs. However, by restricting the execution of the winning effect processing (step S1217), it is possible to prevent the pre-reading effect from being executed based on the start winning winning at the first start winning port 13, and avoid such a state. be able to. Further, by restricting the effect processing at the time of winning during the high base state or the big hit game, it is possible to prevent the game from being played in a state where it can be recognized that the reserved memory for the big win is stored. Whether or not a big hit game is being played is confirmed, for example, by the value of a special symbol process flag. In this case, the CPU 56 determines that the big hit game is being played when the value of the special symbol process flag is 5-7. Further, for example, the game control microcomputer 560 side always performs the effect processing at the time of winning, and the effect control microcomputer 100 side determines whether it is in a high base state or whether it is a big hit game, The execution of the pre-reading effect may be limited.

  Next, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the second start port switch 14a is in an on state (step S1222). If the second start port switch 14a is not in the ON state, the process is terminated as it is. If the second start port switch 14a is in the ON state, the CPU 56 determines whether or not the second reserved memory number has reached the upper limit value (specifically, the second reserved memory for counting the second reserved memory number). Whether or not the value of the number counter is 4 is confirmed (step S1223). If the second reserved storage number has reached the upper limit value, the processing is terminated as it is.

  If the second reserved memory number has not reached the upper limit value, the CPU 56 increments the value of the second reserved memory number counter by 1 (step S1224), and the value of the total reserved memory number counter for counting the total reserved memory number Is increased by 1 (step S1225). In addition, the CPU 56 sets data indicating “second” in an area corresponding to the value of the total reserved memory number counter in the reserved storage specific information storage area (hold specific area) (step S1226).

  Next, the CPU 56 extracts values from the random number circuit 503 and a counter for generating software random numbers, and executes a process of storing them in a storage area in the second reserved storage buffer (see FIG. 20B) (see FIG. 20B). Step S1227). In the process of step S1227, random R (big hit determination random number) that is a hardware random number, big hit type determination random number (random 1) and variation pattern determination random number (random 3) that are software random numbers are extracted, Stored in the save area. It should be noted that the random number for random pattern determination (random 3) is not extracted and stored in the storage area in advance in the start-port switch passing process (at the time of start winning), but is extracted at the start of the variation of the second special symbol. May be. For example, the game control microcomputer 560 may directly extract a value from a variation pattern determination random number counter for generating a variation pattern determination random number (random 3) in a variation pattern setting process described later.

  Next, the CPU 56 executes a winning effect processing (step S1228). Then, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit the second reserved memory number designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 based on the value of the second reserved memory number counter, and then wins based on the determination result of the effect processing at the time of winning. Control for transmitting the time determination result designation command to the production control microcomputer 100 is performed (step S1229).

  By executing the process of step S1229, in this embodiment, regardless of the gaming state (whether it is a high probability state, a high base state, or a big hit gaming state), the CPU 56 Every time a start winning is made at the second start winning opening 14, both the second reserved memory number designation command and the winning determination result designation command are always transmitted to the effect control microcomputer 100.

  FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing the winning effect processing in steps S1217 and S1218. In the winning effect process, the CPU 56 first compares the jackpot determination random number (random R) extracted in steps S1216 and S1227 with the normal jackpot determination value shown in the left column of FIG. It is confirmed whether they match (step S220). In this embodiment, at the timing of starting the variation of the special symbol and the production symbol, whether or not to make a big hit or a small hit in the special symbol normal processing described later, determining the type of big hit or changing the variation pattern in the variation pattern setting processing In addition to that, at the timing when the game ball starts and wins at the first start winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14, before the change display based on the start winning is started, By executing the winning time presentation process, it is confirmed in advance which variation pattern is to be obtained. By doing so, the variation pattern is predicted in advance before the variation display of the effect symbol is executed, and, as will be described later, based on the determination result at the time of winning, the effect control microcomputer 100 performs a big hit or super A pre-reading effect is announced in advance of reaching a reach.

  If the jackpot determination random number (random R) does not match the normal jackpot determination value (N in step S220), the CPU 56 determines whether or not a probability change flag indicating that the gaming state is a probability change state is set. Confirmation (step S221). If the probability change flag is set, the CPU 56 compares the jackpot determination random number (random R) extracted in steps S1216 and S1227 with the jackpot determination value at the time of probability change shown in the right column of FIG. Are matched (step S222). It should be noted that there is a possibility that a plurality of variation displays will be executed after confirming whether or not the state is surely changed in step S221 at the time of the start winning, until the actual display of the variation based on the start winning is actually started. There is. For this reason, the game state has changed (for example, the start of change) from when it is confirmed whether or not it is in the probable variation state at step S221 at the time of starting winning, until when the fluctuation display based on the starting winning is actually started. If there is a probable big hit before, the normal state has changed to the probable state.). For this reason, the gaming state determined in step S221 at the time of starting winning and the gaming state determined at the start of variation (see step S61 described later) do not necessarily match.

  If the jackpot determination random number (random R) does not match the jackpot determination value at the time of probability change (N in step S222), the CPU 56 determines the jackpot determination random number (random R) extracted in steps S1216 and S1227 and FIG. ) And (C) are compared with the small hit determination values to confirm whether or not they match (step S223). In this case, when there is a start winning at the first start winning opening 13 (when executing the winning effect process (see step S1217) in the start opening switch passing process shown in FIG. 14), the CPU 56 performs FIG. It is determined whether or not the small hit determination value set in the small hit determination table (for the first special symbol) shown in FIG. Further, when there is a start winning at the second start winning opening 14 (when the winning effect processing (see step S1228) is executed in the start opening switch passing process shown in FIG. 14), FIG. It is determined whether or not it matches the small hit determination value set in the small hit determination table (for the second special symbol) shown.

  If the big hit determination random number (random R) does not match the small hit determination value (N in Step S223), the CPU 56 performs a process of determining the current gaming state (Step S224). In this embodiment, in step S224, the CPU 56 determines whether or not the gaming state is a certain change state or a short time state (specifically, whether or not a short time flag is set). It should be noted that a plurality of variation displays are executed after confirming whether or not the state of probability variation or time reduction is confirmed in step S224 at the time of starting winning, until the actual displaying of variation based on the starting winning is actually started. There is a possibility. For this reason, the game state has changed from the time when the start winning is confirmed in step S224 to determine whether or not the state is the probability change state or the short time state until the display of the actual variation based on the start winning is actually started (for example, If there is a probable big hit before the start of fluctuation, the normal state changes to the probable state.). Therefore, the gaming state determined in step S224 at the time of starting winning and the gaming state determined at the start of variation (see step S61 described later) do not necessarily match.

  Then, the CPU 56 selects a field of the variation pattern determination table according to the determination result of step S224 (step S225). Specifically, when the CPU 56 determines that the gaming state is a certain change state or a short time state, the CPU 56 selects the “displaced (short time)” field of the variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. When it is determined that the gaming state is the normal state, the “missing” field of the variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 9 is selected.

  When the big hit determination random number (random R) matches the small hit determination value (Y in step S223), the CPU 56 selects the “sudden probability change big hit / small hit” field of the variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. . (Step S226).

  When the jackpot determination random number (random R) matches the jackpot determination value in step S220 or step S222, the CPU 56 determines the type of jackpot based on the jackpot type determination random number (random 1) extracted in steps S1216 and S1227. Is determined (step S227). In this case, when there is a start winning at the first start winning opening 13 (when executing the winning effect process (see step S1217) in the start opening switch passing process shown in FIG. 14), the CPU 56 performs FIG. Using the jackpot type determination table (for the first special symbol) 131a shown in (D), it is determined whether the jackpot type is “normal jackpot”, “probable variation jackpot”, or “sudden probability variation jackpot”. In addition, when there is a start winning at the second start winning opening 14 (when the winning effect processing (see step S1228) is executed in the start opening switch passing process shown in FIG. 14), FIG. It is determined whether the big hit type is “normal big hit”, “probable big hit” or “sudden probability big hit” using the big hit type determination table (for the second special symbol) 131b shown.

  Then, the CPU 56 selects a field of the variation pattern determination table according to the jackpot type determined in step S227. (Step S228). Specifically, when the CPU 56 determines “normal big hit” or “probable big hit”, it selects the “normal big hit / probable big hit” field of the variation pattern determination table. When it is determined that “suddenly probable big hit”, the “sudden probable big hit / small hit” field of the variation pattern determination table is selected.

  Next, the CPU 56 determines the variation pattern by using the variation pattern determination table field set in steps S225, S226, and S228 and the variation pattern determination random number (random 3) extracted in steps S1216 and S1227 (step S229).

  Then, the CPU 56 performs a process of setting the determined variation pattern as a winning determination result designation command (step S230). Specifically, the CPU 56 wins a value from “00 (H)” to “51 (H)” as shown in FIG. 12 according to which variation pattern is determined in step S229. Processing to set the EXT data of the hour determination result designation command is performed.

  For example, when there is a start winning at the first start winning opening 13 (when a winning effect process (see step S1217A) is executed in the start opening switch passing process shown in FIG. 14), “non-reach” is performed at step S229. When it is determined that the variation pattern is “out of”, a process of setting “02 (H)” to the EXT data of the winning determination result designation command composed of the MODE data “95 (H)” is performed. Also, if it is determined in step S229 that the variation pattern type is “per quasi-continuous 3 supermarkets”, the EXT data of the winning determination result designation command composed of MODE data “95 (H)” is set to “12 (H ) ”Is performed.

  In this embodiment, the fluctuation pattern is determined using the same fluctuation pattern determination table even if the number of reserved memories is different. However, a different fluctuation pattern determination table may be used depending on the number of reserved memories. . In this case, for example, it is determined from the random number for determining the variation pattern (or random number for determining the variation pattern type) whether the variation pattern is accompanied by normal reach, super reach, etc. The winning determination result designation command may be transmitted based on a specific variation pattern (for example, a variation pattern for performing a specific reach effect or a variation pattern for a specific number of simulated consecutive times). Sometimes, a winning determination result designation command indicating the determination result may be transmitted. Further, for example, it may be determined whether the display result is “ordinary big hit” or “probability big hit”, and a winning determination result designation command indicating the determination result may be transmitted.

  17 and 18 are flowcharts showing the special symbol normal process (step S300) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol normal process, the CPU 56 confirms the value of the total number of reserved storage (step S51). Specifically, the count value of the total pending storage number counter is confirmed. If the total pending storage number is 0, the process is terminated.

  If the total pending storage number is not 0, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the first data among the data set in the pending specific area (see FIG. 15A) is data indicating “first”. (Step S52). When the first data set in the reserved specific area is not data indicating “first” (that is, data indicating “second”) (N in step S52), the CPU 56 determines that the special symbol pointer (first Data indicating “second” is set in a flag indicating whether the special symbol process is performed for one special symbol or the special symbol process is performed for the second special symbol (step S54). When the first data set in the hold specific area is data indicating “first” (Y in step S52), the CPU 56 sets data indicating “first” in the special symbol pointer (step S53). ).

  By executing the processing of steps S52 to S54, in this embodiment, the first special symbol changes in accordance with the start winning order in which the game balls win the first start winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14. Display or variable display of the second special symbol is executed. In this embodiment, the first special symbol variation display or the second special symbol variation display is executed in accordance with the start winning order in which the game balls have won the first start winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14. Although the case where it is displayed is shown, you may comprise so that a variable display of any one of a 1st special symbol and a 2nd special symbol may be performed preferentially. For example, when priority is given to the variable display of the second special symbol, whether or not the second reserved memory number in the second reserved memory number buffer is 1 or more is checked in step S52. If it is 0, the process proceeds to step S53.

  Next, the CPU 56 reads out each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the reserved storage number = 1 indicated by the special symbol pointer in the RAM 55 and stores it in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55 (step S55). Specifically, when the special symbol pointer indicates “first”, the CPU 56 determines each disturbance stored in the storage area corresponding to the first reserved memory number = 1 in the first reserved memory number buffer. The numerical value is read and stored in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55. In addition, when the special symbol pointer indicates “second”, the CPU 56 reads each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the second reserved memory number = 1 in the second reserved memory number buffer. And stored in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55.

  Then, the CPU 56 decrements the count value of the reserved storage number counter indicated by the special symbol pointer, and shifts the contents of each storage area (step S56). Specifically, when the special symbol pointer indicates “first”, the CPU 56 subtracts 1 from the count value of the first reserved memory number counter, and in the reserved specific area and the first reserved memory buffer. Shift the contents of each storage area. In addition, when the special symbol pointer indicates “second”, the count value of the second reserved memory number counter is decremented by 1, and the contents of each storage area in the reserved specific area and the second reserved memory buffer are shifted. To do.

  That is, when the special symbol pointer indicates “first”, the CPU 56 stores the first reserved memory number = n (n = 2, 3, 4) in the first reserved memory buffer of the RAM 55. Each stored random number value is stored in a storage area corresponding to the first reserved storage number = n−1. Further, when the special symbol pointer indicates “second”, each stored in the storage area corresponding to the second reserved memory number = n (n = 2, 3, 4) in the second reserved memory buffer of the RAM 55. The random value is stored in the storage area corresponding to the second reserved memory number = n−1. In addition, the CPU 56 adds the values (values indicating “first” or “second”) stored in the storage area corresponding to the total reserved storage number = m (m = 2 to 8) in the reserved specific area. Store in the storage area corresponding to the number of reserved storage = m−1.

  Therefore, the order in which each random value stored in each storage area corresponding to each first reserved memory number (or each second reserved memory number) is extracted is always the first reserved memory number (or (Second reserved storage number) = 1, 2, 3, 4 in order. Further, the order in which the values stored in the respective storage areas corresponding to the total number of pending storages are extracted always matches the order of the total number of pending storages = 1-8.

  In step S56, when the count value of the reserved memory number counter indicated by the special symbol pointer is decremented by 1, the CPU 56 first subtracts the first special symbol reserved memory display 18a based on the count value of the reserved memory number counter. Or control which changes the display of the 2nd special symbol reservation memory indicator 18b is also performed.

  Then, the CPU 56 stores the count value of the total pending storage number counter in a predetermined area of the RAM 55 (step S57), and then decreases the value of the total pending storage number by one. That is, 1 is subtracted from the count value of the total pending storage number counter (step S58). The CPU 56 stores the value of the total pending storage number counter before the count value is decremented by 1 in a predetermined area of the RAM 55.

  Further, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit the reserved memory number designation command indicated by the special symbol pointer to the effect control microcomputer 100 based on the value of the reserved memory number counter indicated by the special symbol pointer after the subtraction. (Step S59). In this case, when a value indicating “first” is set in the special symbol pointer, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit the first reserved storage number designation command. When a value indicating “second” is set in the special symbol pointer, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a second reserved memory number designation command.

  In the special symbol normal process, first, data indicating “first” indicating that the process is executed for the first start winning opening 13, that is, “first” indicating that the process is executed for the first special symbol. ”Or“ second ”indicating that the process is performed on the second special symbol, that is,“ second ”indicating that the process is performed on the second start winning opening 14. Data is set in the special symbol pointer. In the subsequent processing in the special symbol process, processing corresponding to the data set in the special symbol pointer is executed. Therefore, the process of steps S300 to S310 can be made common between the case of targeting the first special symbol and the case of targeting the second special symbol.

  Next, the CPU 56 reads a random R (a jackpot determination random number) from the random number buffer area and executes a jackpot determination module. In this case, the CPU 56 determines the jackpot determination that is extracted in step S214A of the first start port switch passing process or step S214B of the second start port switch passing process and stored in advance in the first hold memory buffer or the second hold memory buffer. A random number is read and a big hit judgment is performed. The big hit determination module compares the big hit determination value or the small hit determination value (see FIG. 8) determined in advance with the big hit determination random number, and if they match, executes the process of determining the big hit or the small hit It is a program to do. That is, it is a program that executes a big hit determination or a small hit determination process.

  The jackpot determination process is configured such that when the gaming state is a probable change state (high probability state), the probability of a big hit is higher than when the gaming state is a non-probability change state (normal game state and short-time state). ing. Specifically, a jackpot determination table (a table in which the numerical values on the right side of FIG. 8A in the ROM 54 are set) in which a large number of jackpot determination values are set in advance and the number of jackpot determination values are definitely changed. There is provided a normal big hit determination table (a table in which the numerical values on the left side of FIG. 8A in the ROM 54 are set) set to be smaller than the big hit determination table. Then, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the gaming state is a probability variation state. If the gaming state is a probability variation state, the jackpot determination process is performed using the probability variation jackpot determination table, and the gaming state is normal. When in the gaming state or the short-time state, the big hit determination process is performed using the normal big hit determination table. That is, when the value of the big hit determination random number (random R) matches one of the big hit determination values shown in FIG. 8A, the CPU 56 determines that the special symbol is a big hit. When it is determined to be a big hit (step S61), the process proceeds to step S71. Note that deciding whether to win or not is to decide whether or not to shift to the big hit gaming state, but to decide whether or not to stop the special symbol display as a big hit symbol. But there is.

  Note that whether or not the current gaming state is the probability variation state is determined by whether or not the probability variation flag is set. The probability variation flag is set when the gaming state is shifted to the probability variation state, and is reset when the probability variation state is terminated. Specifically, it is determined to be a probable big hit or suddenly probable big hit, and is set in the process of ending the big hit game, and when the big hit is determined, the special symbol variation display is terminated and the stop symbol is stopped and displayed. Reset at timing.

  If the value of the big hit determination random number (random R) does not match any of the big hit determination values (N in step S61), the CPU 56 uses the small hit determination table (see FIGS. 8B and 8C). Then, the small hit determination process is performed. That is, when the value of the big hit determination random number (random R) matches one of the small hit determination values shown in FIGS. 8B and 8C, the CPU 56 determines that the special symbol is a small hit. In this case, the CPU 56 confirms the data indicated by the special symbol pointer. If the data indicated by the special symbol pointer is “first”, the small hit determination table (for the first special symbol) shown in FIG. ) To determine whether or not to make a small hit. If the data indicated by the special symbol pointer is “second”, it is determined whether or not to make a small hit using the small hit determination table (for the second special symbol) shown in FIG. . If it is determined to be a small hit (step S62), the CPU 56 sets a small hit flag indicating a small hit (step S63), and proceeds to step S75.

  If the random R value does not match either the big hit determination value or the small hit determination value (N in step S62), that is, if it is out of place, the process proceeds to step S75 as it is.

  In step S71, the CPU 56 sets a big hit flag indicating that it is a big hit. Then, the jackpot type determination table indicated by the special symbol pointer is selected as a table used to determine the jackpot type as one of a plurality of types (step S72). Specifically, when the special symbol pointer indicates “first”, the CPU 56 selects the jackpot type determination table 131a for the first special symbol shown in FIG. 8D. Further, when the special symbol pointer indicates “second”, the CPU 56 selects a big hit type determination table 131b for the second special symbol shown in FIG.

  Next, the CPU 56 uses the selected jackpot type determination table to select a type (“normal jackpot”, “probability change”) corresponding to the value of the random number for random determination (random 1) stored in the random number buffer area. "Big hit" or "Suddenly probable big hit") is determined as the type of big hit (step S73). In this case, the CPU 56 determines the jackpot type extracted in step S214A of the first start port switch passing process or step S214B of the second start port switch passing process and stored in advance in the first hold memory buffer or the second hold memory buffer. The random number is read and the jackpot type is determined. Further, in this case, as shown in FIGS. 8D and 8E, when the variation display of the first special symbol is executed, it is compared with the case where the variation display of the second special symbol is executed. Therefore, the rate at which suddenly probable big hits are selected is high.

  Further, the CPU 56 sets data indicating the determined jackpot type in the jackpot type buffer in the RAM 55 (step S74). For example, when the big hit type is “normal big hit”, “01” is set as data indicating the big hit type, and when the big hit type is “probable big hit”, “02” is set as the data indicating the big hit type, When the big hit type is “suddenly probable big hit”, “03” is set as data indicating the big hit type.

  Next, the CPU 56 determines a special symbol stop symbol (step S75). Specifically, when neither the big hit flag nor the small hit flag is set, “−” which is a loss symbol is determined as a special symbol stop symbol. When the big hit flag is set, one of “1”, “3”, and “7”, which is a big hit symbol, is determined as a special symbol stop symbol according to the determination result of the big hit type. That is, when the big hit type is determined to be “suddenly promising big hit”, “1” is decided as a special symbol stop symbol, and when “normal big hit” is decided, “3” is decided as a special symbol stop symbol. If “probable big hit” is determined, “7” is determined as a special symbol stop symbol. When the small hit flag is set, “5” as the small hit symbol is determined as the special symbol stop symbol.

  Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern setting process (step S301) (step S76).

  FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing the variation pattern setting process (step S301) in the special symbol process. In the variation pattern setting process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the big hit flag is set (step S91). When the big hit flag is set, the CPU 56 selects the “normal big hit / probable big hit” field of the variation pattern judgment table when the big hit type is the normal big hit or the probability variable big hit (Y in step S92). (Step S93) When the big hit type is not the normal big hit or the probability variation big hit (N in Step S92), the “suddenly probable big hit / small hit” field of the variation pattern determination table is selected (Step S94). Then, the process proceeds to step S101.

  When the big hit flag is not set, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the small hit flag is set (step S93). If the small hit flag is set, the CPU 56 selects the “suddenly probable big hit / small hit” field of the variation pattern determination table (step S96). Then, the process proceeds to step S101.

  If the small hit flag is not set, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the time reduction flag indicating that the time reduction state is set (step S97). The time reduction flag is set when the gaming state is shifted to the time reduction state (including the time of shifting to the probability change state), and is reset when the time reduction state is ended. Specifically, it is usually decided to be a big hit, a probable big hit or a sudden probable big hit, and is set in the process of ending the big hit game. It is reset when the display is terminated and the stop symbol is stopped and displayed. If the time reduction flag is set (Y in step S97), the CPU 56 selects the “out of phase (time reduction)” field of the variation pattern determination table (step S98). Then, the process proceeds to step S101.

  If the time reduction flag is not set (N in Step S97), the CPU 56 selects the “out” field of the variation pattern determination table (Step S99). Then, the process proceeds to step S101.

  Next, the CPU 56 reads random 3 (random number for variation pattern determination) from the random number buffer area (first reserved storage buffer or second reserved storage buffer) (step S101), and performs the process of steps S93, S94, S96, S98 or S99. By referring to the field of the variation pattern determination table selected in step 1, the variation pattern is determined as one of a plurality of types (step S102).

  Next, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit an effect control command (variation pattern command) corresponding to the determined variation pattern to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S103). Further, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit the symbol variation designation command indicated by the special symbol pointer to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S104).

  Also, the special symbol change is started (step S105). For example, a start flag corresponding to the special symbol referred to in the special symbol display control process in step S33 is set. Further, a value corresponding to the variation time corresponding to the selected variation pattern is set in the variation time timer formed in the RAM 55 (step S106). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the display result designation command transmission process (step S302) (step S107).

  FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing the display result designation command transmission process (step S302). In the display result designation command transmission process, the CPU 56 transmits one of the presentation control commands (display result 1 designation to display result 5 designation) (see FIG. 10) according to the determined type of big hit, small hit, and loss. Control. Specifically, the CPU 56 first checks whether or not the big hit flag is set (step S110). If not set, the process proceeds to step S116. When the big hit flag is set, when the big hit type is a probable big hit, control is performed to transmit a display result 3 designation command (steps S111 and S112). Specifically, whether or not it is a probable big hit can be determined by checking whether or not the data set in the big hit type buffer in step S74 of the special symbol normal process is “02”. Further, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a display result 4 designation command when the big hit type is suddenly probable big hit (steps S113 and S114). Whether or not it is suddenly probable big hit can be specifically determined by checking whether or not the data set in the big hit type buffer in step S74 of the special symbol normal process is “03”. Then, when neither the probability variation big hit nor the sudden probability variation big hit is obtained (that is, when it is a normal big hit), the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a display result 2 designation command (step S115).

  On the other hand, when the big hit flag is not set (N in Step S110), the CPU 56 checks whether or not the small hit flag is set (Step S116). If the small hit flag is set, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a display result 5 designation command (step S117). When the small hit flag is not set (N in Step S116), that is, when it is out of place, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a display result 1 designation command (Step S118).

  Then, the CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the special symbol changing process (step S303) (step S119).

  FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing the special symbol changing process (step S303) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol changing process, the CPU 56 decrements the variable time timer by 1 (step S125), and when the variable time timer times out (step S126), the special symbol process flag value corresponds to the special symbol stop process (step S304). The updated value is updated (step S127). If the variable time timer has not timed out, the process ends.

  FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing the special symbol stop process (step S304) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol stop process, the CPU 56 sets an end flag referred to in the special symbol display control process in step S32 to end the variation of the special symbol, and the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b. Then, a control for deriving and displaying the stop symbol is performed (step S131). If data indicating “first” is set in the special symbol pointer, the variation of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display 8a is terminated, and “second” is indicated in the special symbol pointer. When data is set, the variation of the second special symbol on the second special symbol display 8b is terminated. Moreover, control which transmits the symbol determination designation | designated command to the microcomputer 100 for production control is performed (step S132). If the big hit flag is not set, the process proceeds to step S140 (step S133).

  If the big hit flag is set, the CPU 56 resets the probability change flag indicating the probability change state and the time reduction flag indicating the time reduction state if set (step S134). Control to send a big hit start designation command to the microcomputer 100 is performed (step S135). Specifically, when the type of jackpot is normally jackpot, a jackpot start 1 designation command is transmitted. If the jackpot type is a probabilistic jackpot, a jackpot start 2 designation command is transmitted. When the big hit type is sudden probability change big hit, a small hit / sudden probability sudden change big hit start designation command is transmitted. Whether the big hit type is a normal big hit, a probable big hit or a sudden probable big hit is determined based on the data indicating the big hit type stored in the RAM 55 (data stored in the big hit type buffer). .

  Further, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a normal state designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S136).

  In addition, a value corresponding to the jackpot display time (a time for which the effect display device 9 notifies that the jackpot has occurred, for example) is set in the jackpot display time timer (step S137). In addition, the number of times of opening (for example, 15 times in the case of a normal big hit or a probable big hit, 2 times in the case of a sudden probable big hit) is set in the big prize opening number counter (step S138). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the pre-winner opening pre-processing (step S305) (step S139).

  In step S140, the CPU 56 checks whether or not a probability variation flag indicating that the probability variation state is set. If the probability variation flag is not set, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the time reduction flag indicating that the time reduction state is set (step S141). When the time reduction flag is set (that is, when the time change state is not controlled and only the time reduction state is controlled), the value of the time reduction counter indicating the number of times that the special symbol can be changed in the time reduction state is- 1 (step S142).

  Next, when the value of the time reduction counter after subtraction becomes 0 (step S144), the CPU 56 resets the time reduction flag (step S145). Further, the CPU 56 performs control for transmitting a normal state designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S146).

  Next, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the small hit flag is set (step S147). If the small hit flag is set, the CPU 56 transmits a small hit / sudden probability sudden change big hit start designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S148). In addition, a value corresponding to the small hit display time (for example, the time when the effect display device 9 notifies that the small hit has occurred) is set in the small hit display time timer (step S149). Further, the number of times of opening (for example, 2 times) is set in the special winning opening opening number counter (step S150). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the small hit start pre-processing (step S308) (step S151).

  If the small hit flag is not set (N in step S147), the CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the special symbol normal process (step S300) (step S152).

  FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing the jackpot end process (step S307) in the special symbol process. In the jackpot end process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the jackpot end display timer is set (step S160). If the jackpot end display timer is set, the process proceeds to step S164. If the jackpot end display timer is not set, the jackpot flag is reset (step S161), and control for transmitting a jackpot end designation command is performed (step S162). Here, a big hit end 1 designation command is transmitted when it is a normal big hit, a big hit end 2 designation command is sent when it is a probable big hit, and a small hit / abrupt is sudden when it is a sudden probable big hit. Send a probable jackpot end designation command. Then, a value corresponding to the display time corresponding to the time during which the big hit end display is being performed in the image display device 9 (the big hit end display time) is set in the big hit end display timer (step S163), and the processing is ended.

  In step S164, 1 is subtracted from the value of the jackpot end display timer. Then, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the jackpot end display timer is 0, that is, whether or not the jackpot end display time has elapsed (step S165). If not, the process ends.

  If the big hit end display time has elapsed (Y in step S165), the CPU 56 checks whether the big hit type is a probability change big hit or a sudden probability change big hit (step S166). Note that whether or not the probability change big hit or sudden probability change big hit is, specifically, whether or not the data set in the big hit type buffer in step S74 of the special symbol normal processing is “02” to “03”. This can be determined by checking. If neither the probability change big hit nor the sudden probability change big hit is present (that is, if it is a normal big hit), the CPU 56 sets the time reduction flag and shifts the gaming state to the time reduction state (step S167). Further, the CPU 56 sets a predetermined number of times (for example, 100 times) in a time reduction number counter for counting the number of time reductions (step S168). In addition, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a time reduction state designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S169). Then, control goes to a step S173.

  If the probability change big hit or the sudden probability change big hit, the CPU 56 sets the probability change flag and shifts the gaming state to the probability change state (step S170). Further, the CPU 56 sets a time reduction flag (step S171). Further, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a probability change state designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S172). Then, control goes to a step S173.

  In this embodiment, the time reduction flag set in steps S167 and S171 is also used to determine whether or not to increase the opening time of the variable winning ball device 15 or increase the number of times of opening. In this case, specifically, in the normal symbol process (see step S27), the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the time reduction flag is set when the normal symbol variation display result is a win. If so, control is performed to open the variable winning ball device 15 by extending the opening time or increasing the number of times of opening. The time reduction flag set in steps S167 and S171 is used to determine whether or not to shorten the special symbol variation time.

  Then, the CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the special symbol normal process (step S300) (step S173).

  Next, the operation of the effect control means will be described. FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing main processing executed by the effect control microcomputer 100 (specifically, the effect control CPU 101) as effect control means mounted on the effect control board 80. The effect control CPU 101 starts executing the main process when the power is turned on. In the main processing, first, initialization processing is performed for clearing the RAM area, setting various initial values, and initializing a timer for determining the activation control activation interval (for example, 2 ms) (step S701). . Thereafter, the effect control CPU 101 proceeds to a loop process for monitoring a timer interrupt flag (step S702). When a timer interrupt occurs, the effect control CPU 101 sets a timer interrupt flag in the timer interrupt process. If the timer interrupt flag is set in the main process, the effect control CPU 101 clears the flag (step S703) and executes the following effect control process.

  In the effect control process, the effect control CPU 101 first analyzes the received effect control command and performs a process of setting a flag according to the received effect control command (command analysis process: step S704). Next, the effect control CPU 101 performs effect control process processing (step S705). In the effect control process, the process corresponding to the current control state (effect control process flag) is selected from the processes corresponding to the control state, and display control of the effect display device 9 is executed.

  Next, a random number update process for updating a count value of a counter for generating a random number such as a jackpot symbol determining random number is executed (step S706). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S702.

  FIG. 25 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of a command reception buffer for storing an effect control command received from the game control microcomputer 560 of the main board 31. In this example, a command reception buffer of a ring buffer type capable of storing six 2-byte configuration effect control commands is used. Therefore, the command reception buffer is configured by a 12-byte area of reception command buffers 1 to 12. A command reception number counter indicating in which area the received command is stored is used. The command reception number counter takes a value from 0 to 11. The ring buffer format is not necessarily required.

  The effect control command transmitted from the game control microcomputer 560 is received by an interrupt process based on the effect control INT signal, and is stored in a buffer area formed in the RAM. In the command analysis process, it is analyzed which command (see FIGS. 10 and 11) the effect control command stored in the buffer area is.

  26 to 27 are flowcharts showing specific examples of the command analysis process (step S704). The effect control command received from the main board 31 is stored in the reception command buffer, but in the command analysis process, the effect control CPU 101 confirms the content of the command stored in the command reception buffer.

  In the command analysis process, the effect control CPU 101 first checks whether or not a reception command is stored in the command reception buffer (step S611). Whether it is stored or not is determined by comparing the value of the command reception number counter with the read pointer. The case where both match is the case where the received command is not stored. When the reception command is stored in the command reception buffer, the effect control CPU 101 reads the reception command from the command reception buffer (step S612). When read, the value of the read pointer is incremented by +2 (step S613). The reason for +2 is that 2 bytes (1 command) are read at a time.

  If the received effect control command is a variation pattern command (step S621), the effect control CPU 101 stores the variation pattern command in a variation pattern command storage area formed in the RAM (step S622). Then, a variation pattern command reception flag is set (step S623).

  If the received effect control command is a display result designation command (step S625), the effect control CPU 101 forms the received display result designation command (display result 1 designation command to display result 5 designation command) in the RAM. Is stored in the display result designation command storage area (step S626).

  If the received effect control command is a symbol confirmation designation command (step S627), the effect control CPU 101 sets a confirmed command reception flag (step S628).

  If the received effect control command is the first reserved memory number designation command (step S651), the effect control CPU 101 stores the second byte data (EXT data) of the first reserved memory number designation command as the first reserved memory. The number is stored in the first reserved memory number storage area as a number (step S652).

  If the received effect control command is the second reserved memory number designation command (step S654), the effect control CPU 101 stores the second byte data (EXT data) of the second reserved memory number designation command as the second reserved memory. The number is stored in the second reserved storage number storage area (step S655).

  Next, if the received effect control command is any prize determination result designation command (step S664), the effect control CPU 101 determines the prize determination result according to the received prize determination result designation command. In the result storage buffer, the data is stored in an area associated with the total number of pending storage (step S665), and a prefetch effect determination process is performed (step S671).

  In this embodiment, the total reserved memory number is the first reserved memory number stored in the first reserved memory number storage area and the second reserved memory number stored in the second reserved memory number storage area. It is calculated by adding together. The first reserved memory number is updated in step S652 after receiving the first reserved memory number designation command, and the second reserved memory number is updated in step S655 after receiving the second reserved memory number designation command. Therefore, the total pending storage number is also updated at the same timing. The winning determination result designation command is transmitted after the first reserved memory number designation command is transmitted in step S1218 of the start port passing process, and the second reserved memory number designation command is transmitted in step S1228. Will be sent later. Therefore, the production control microcomputer 100 receives the winning determination result designation command after updating the total pending storage number. In step S665, the effect control CPU 101 sets, for example, the second byte data of the winning determination result designation command in the storage area associated with the total number of pending storages in the winning determination result buffer. This is because the winning determination result is specified by the second byte data (EXT data) of the winning determination result designation command (see FIG. 12). In addition, the data set in the winning determination result buffer is deleted in order from the previously set data in the effect symbol variation start process (timing at which the process of step S1800 is executed) to be described later.

  FIG. 27A is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of an area (a winning determination result storage buffer) for storing a winning determination result. As shown in FIG. 27A, in this embodiment, eight storage areas associated with the total number of pending storages are secured in the winning determination result storage buffer. In addition, in order to distinguish which winning determination result when it is configured to preferentially execute either one of the first special symbol and the second special symbol, A first winning determination result storage buffer for storing a winning determination result at the time of starting winning at the first starting winning port 13 and a second winning determination result at the time of starting winning at the second starting winning port 14 are stored. A winning determination result storage buffer may be prepared. In this case, a storage area corresponding to the upper limit value (4 in this example) of the first reserved storage number is secured in the first winning determination result storage buffer. In addition, a storage area corresponding to the upper limit value (4 in this example) of the second reserved storage number is secured in the second winning determination result storage buffer. In this case, the received EXT data of the winning determination result designation command is stored in the first winning determination result storage buffer and the second winning determination result storage buffer. The winning determination result storage buffer (the first winning determination result storage buffer and the second winning determination result storage buffer) is formed in the RAM included in the effect control microcomputer 100.

  If the received effect control command is another command, the effect control CPU 101 sets a flag corresponding to the received effect control command (step S683). Then, control goes to a step S611.

  Next, the prefetching effect will be described. The pre-reading effect is executed before the start of the variable display that is the target of the effect, and the variable display that is the target of the effect is a big hit or a specific change (for example, a reach effect is included). It is a notice effect that warns you. In this embodiment, as a pre-reading effect, in the total hold storage display unit 18c, the hold display corresponding to the fluctuating display (hold storage) to be notified is different from the normal display mode (hereinafter, normal mode). An effect that is displayed in a special mode, a first special mode, or a second special mode (to be described later) is performed.

  FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing prefetch effect determination processing. In the prefetch effect determining process, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not a prefetch effect restriction flag indicating that execution of the prefetch effect is restricted is set (step S67101). Note that the prefetch effect restriction flag is set in step S67111 described later. If the prefetch effect restriction flag is set, the effect control CPU 101 displays a new hold display corresponding to the latest hold storage in the normal manner in the combined hold storage display unit 18c (step S67116). For example, when the first to fifth hold displays of the combined hold storage display unit 18c are displayed, the effect control CPU 101 controls to display the sixth hold display in the normal mode. .

  If the pre-reading effect restriction flag is not set, the effect control CPU 101 displays the past winning determination result stored in the winning determination result storage buffer (the winning determination result indicated by the winning determination result designation command received this time). (Excluding) are extracted (step S67102).

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the extracted winning determination results are all determination results indicating “non-reach” (step S67103). In this embodiment, the effect control CPU 101 determines in step S67103 that all of the extracted winning determination results indicate that the variation pattern is “shortened non-reach out” or “non-reach out” (specifically, Is “01 (H)” or “02 (H)” (see FIG. 12).

  If all the winning determination results extracted in step S67103 are determination results indicating “non-reach”, the CPU 101 for effect control proceeds to step S67104. On the other hand, if the extracted winning determination results are not all determination results indicating “non-reach”, the effect control CPU 101 normally displays a new hold display corresponding to the latest hold storage in the combined hold storage display unit 18c. It displays in the form (step S67116). In other words, this embodiment is configured not to execute the pre-reading effect based on the newly received winning determination result designation command when there is an on-hold storage in which a variable display with a reach effect is performed. In addition to the example shown in FIG. 28, the pre-reading effect is executed based on the newly received winning determination result designation command even when there is a holding storage in which a variable display with a reach effect is performed. May be.

  In step S67104, the effect control CPU 101 extracts the latest winning determination result (the winning determination result indicated in the received winning determination result designation command) stored in the winning determination result storage buffer, and the extracted winning is obtained. Based on the time determination result, it is determined whether or not to execute the prefetch effect (step S67104).

  In this embodiment, the effect control CPU 101 determines whether or not to execute the prefetch effect using the prefetch effect execution determination table shown in FIG.

  FIG. 29A is an explanatory diagram showing a prefetch effect execution determination table. In the prefetch effect execution determination table, determination values corresponding to the determination items (“execute prefetch effect” or “do not execute prefetch effect”) are assigned for each determination result at the time of winning, but FIG. In the example shown, the ratio of the assigned determination value is shown to simplify the explanation. The effect control CPU 101 extracts, for example, a random number for determining whether or not to execute the pre-reading effect, and a determination item (“execute the pre-reading effect” or a determination value assigned with the extracted random number is assigned). “Do not execute pre-reading effect”). Therefore, in the example shown in FIG. 29A, the numerical values corresponding to “execute prefetching effect” and “do not execute prefetching effect” in the determination results at the time of winning each prize are “execute prefetching effect” as determination items. Or, the ratio (%) at which “Do not execute pre-reading effect” is selected is shown.

  In this embodiment, in addition to the prefetch effect execution determination table shown in FIG. 29A, the final display mode determination table shown in FIG. 29B, the prefetch effect pattern determination table shown in FIG. The prefetch effect change timing determination table shown and the suggested effect mode determination table shown in FIG. 32 are also actually assigned determination values, but the ratio of the determination values assigned is shown to simplify the explanation. Yes. Also in steps S67106, S67107, S67108, S67110, and S67115, which will be described later, in which those tables are used, as in step S67104, the effect control CPU 101, for example, the final display mode, the prefetch effect pattern, the change timing (the number of shifts). ) Or a random number for determining the presentation mode of the suggestion effect is extracted, and the item to which the determination value matching the extracted random number is assigned is determined.

  In step S67104, the effect control CPU 101 performs the pre-reading effect at a ratio determined for each winning determination result in the pre-reading effect execution determination table shown in FIG. 29A based on the latest extracted winning determination result. Decide whether to execute. For example, when the winning determination result indicates “shortened non-reach”, the effect control CPU 101 determines not to execute the prefetch effect at a rate of 100%. Further, for example, when the winning determination result indicates “per quasi-continuous 3 supermarkets”, the effect control CPU 101 determines to execute the prefetch effect at a rate of 99%.

  What is characteristic in the pre-reading effect execution determination table shown in FIG. 29A is that it is displayed compared to the case where the display result is “out of place” (corresponding to the designation of the winning determination result 1 to the winning determination result 7). When the result is “ordinary big hit” or “probability big hit” (corresponding to the determination result 8 when winning a prize to the determination result 12 when winning), the determination value is set so that the pre-reading effect is executed at a higher rate. It is set. In addition, what is characteristic in the pre-reading effect execution determination table shown in FIG. 29A is that even if the display result is the same, a reach effect with a high degree of expectation is performed (for example, super reach is performed rather than normal reach). The determination value is set so that the rate at which the pre-reading effect is executed increases. By having such a feature, when the pre-reading effect is executed, it is expected that the ratio of occurrence of the big hit in the variable display of the notice target is increased and the big hit is expected compared with the case where the pre-reading effect is not executed. It is possible to increase the rate at which a high reach production is performed. Therefore, it is possible to give the player a sense of expectation that the pre-reading effect is executed.

  In the example shown in FIG. 29A, it is determined that the pre-reading effect is executed at a rate of 1% even when the determination result at the time of winning is “non-reach”, but “non-reach” (“short non-reach”) is determined. In the case of “reach out” or “non-reach out”), it may not be determined to execute the pre-reading effect. In the example shown in FIG. 29A, a determination value (ratio) for determining whether or not to perform the pre-reading effect is set for each variation pattern indicated by the winning determination result. Judgment value (ratio) for determining whether to perform the pre-reading effect for each display result (for example, “out of”, “normal big hit” or “probable big hit”, “suddenly probable big hit” or “small hit”) May be set.

  Next, when the CPU 101 for effect control determines to execute the prefetch effect (Y in step S67105), the process proceeds to step S67105a. On the other hand, when it is determined not to execute the prefetch effect (N in Step S67105), the effect control CPU 101 displays a new hold display corresponding to the latest hold storage in the normal manner in the combined hold storage display unit 18c. (Step S67116).

  In step S67105a, the effect control CPU 101 sets the total reserved memory number in the effect total reserved memory number counter for specifying the reserved display that is the target of the prefetch effect (step S67105a). The value of the total reserved memory number counter for effects is decremented by 1 in step S1802a of the effect symbol variation start process, and in step S1811, it is used to specify the hold display that is the target of the prefetch effect. For example, when the value of the total pending storage number counter for effects is 4, a pre-reading effect that changes the display mode of the fourth on-hold display in the total on-hold storage display unit 18c is executed. In this embodiment, the total reserved memory number is the first reserved memory number stored in the first reserved memory number storage area and the second reserved memory number stored in the second reserved memory number storage area. It is calculated by adding together. The first reserved memory number is updated in step S652 after receiving the first reserved memory number designation command, and the second reserved memory number is updated in step S655 after receiving the second reserved memory number designation command. Therefore, the total pending storage number is also updated at the same timing. The winning determination result designation command is transmitted after the first reserved memory number designation command is transmitted in step S1218 of the start port passing process, and the second reserved memory number designation command is transmitted in step S1228. Will be sent later. Therefore, the production control microcomputer 100 receives the winning determination result designation command after updating the total pending storage number.

  Next, the CPU 101 for effect control determines in which display mode the hold display corresponding to the variable display (hold information) to be notified in the pre-read effect is finally displayed (step S67106). In this embodiment, as a display mode of the hold display, a special mode, a first special mode, and a second special mode are provided in addition to the normal mode. However, as will be described later, the hold display displayed in the special mode changes from the special mode to the first special mode or the second special mode before the variable display based on the hold information corresponding to the hold display is started. Is displayed. Therefore, in step S67106, the final display mode is determined as either the first special mode or the second special mode. Hereinafter, the first special mode and the second special mode may be collectively referred to as a special mode.

  FIG. 29B is an explanatory diagram showing a final display mode determination table. In step S67106, the effect control CPU 101 uses the final display mode determination table shown in FIG. 29B to determine which display mode is to be used for final display (hereinafter also referred to as the final display mode). Specifically, the final display mode is determined at a ratio determined for each winning determination result (variable display display result) in the final display mode determination table based on the latest extracted winning determination result. For example, when the winning determination result indicates that the display result of the variable display is “out of” (corresponding to the winning determination result 1 designation to the winning determination result 7 designation), the effect control CPU 101 The final display mode is determined as the first special mode at a rate of 80%. Further, for example, when the winning determination result indicates that the display result of the variable display is “ordinary big hit” or “probable big hit” (corresponding to the winning determination result 8 designation to the winning determination result 12 designation). In this case, the effect control CPU 101 determines the final display mode as the second special mode at a rate of 80%.

  What is characteristic in the final display mode determination table shown in FIG. 29B is that the display result is “out of” (corresponding to the determination result 1 at the time of winning determination to the determination result 7 at the time of winning determination). When the result is “ordinary big hit” or “probability big hit” (equivalent to the determination result 8 when winning a prize to the determination result 12 when winning), the determination is made such that the ratio determined in the second special mode is higher. The value is set. By providing such a feature, when the hold display is displayed in the second special mode, the ratio of occurrence of the big hit in the variable display of the notice target is higher than when the hold display is displayed in the first special mode. can do. Therefore, it is possible to increase the degree of expectation that a big hit is displayed in the second special mode rather than the first special mode, and in which display mode the hold display is displayed when the pre-reading effect is executed. Can be focused on.

  In the example shown in FIG. 29 (B), the final display results (“out-going”, “ordinary big hit” or “probable big hit”, “suddenly probable big hit” or “small win”) are displayed for each display result shown in the winning determination result. Although the determination value (ratio) for determining the display mode is set, for example, the final display mode for each variation pattern indicated by the determination result at the time of winning, similarly to the pre-reading effect execution determination table of FIG. A determination value (ratio) for determining the value may be set. By doing so, when the hold display is displayed in the second special mode, in addition to increasing the ratio of occurrence of jackpots in the variable display of the notice target, the ratio of the high-reach reach effect Can also be high.

  In this embodiment, two types of display modes, the first special mode and the second special mode, are provided as the final display mode, but not limited to this, three or more types of display modes are provided, The degree of expectation may be different (the ratio selected according to the display result is different).

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 determines a prefetch effect effect pattern (hereinafter also referred to as a prefetch effect pattern) (step S67107).

  In this embodiment, a first prefetch effect pattern and a second prefetch effect pattern are provided as prefetch effect patterns. In the first look-ahead effect pattern, the hold display corresponding to the change display (hold information) to be notified is displayed in the first special mode or the second special mode without being displayed once in the special mode. Note that the first look-ahead effect pattern includes a display in which the hold display corresponding to the change display (hold information) for the advance notice is displayed in the first special mode or the second special form at the timing of the start winning prize, and the change display of the advance notice target. The hold display corresponding to the fluctuating display (hold information) to be notified is changed from the normal mode to the first special mode or the second special mode at any shift timing until the (hold information) starts. Including. On the other hand, in the second look-ahead effect pattern, the hold display corresponding to the variation display of the advance notice target is displayed in a special manner at the timing of the start winning prize, and at any shift timing until the advance display of the advance notice subject is changed, The display is changed from the special mode to the first special mode or the second special mode.

  The shift timing of the hold display means that the first hold display in the combined hold storage display unit 18c is erased and the remaining hold displays are shifted one by one in the effect symbol variation start process described later, and the combined hold storage display is performed. It is a timing (specifically, a timing at which step S1800 is executed) for updating the combined pending storage number display in the unit 18c. For example, when the first to fifth hold displays of the combined hold storage display unit 18c are displayed, the first hold display is erased at the shift timing and the second hold display is displayed. The hold display is shifted to the first display area, the hold display displayed at the third is shifted to the second display area, and the hold display displayed at the fourth is the third display. The hold display which has been shifted to the area and displayed in the fifth is shifted to the fourth display area.

  FIG. 30 is an explanatory diagram of a prefetch effect pattern determination table. In step S67107, the effect control CPU 101 determines a prefetch effect pattern based on the prefetch effect pattern determination table and the total number of reserved memories. Specifically, the CPU 101 for effect control is hit by the display result of the variable display indicated by the latest extracted winning determination result (for example, “normal big hit”, “probability big hit”, “sudden probability big hit” or “small” In the case of “winning”) (that is, when the winning determination result 8 is designated to the winning determination result 13 is designated), the winning prefetch effect pattern determination table shown in FIG. Then, the effect control CPU 101 converts the look-ahead effect pattern into the first look-ahead effect pattern and the second look-ahead effect pattern at a ratio determined for each total stored memory number in the hit prefetch effect pattern determination table shown in FIG. And decide to either.

  Further, the CPU 101 for effect control has a case where the display result of the variable display indicated by the latest extracted winning determination result is “out of” (that is, when the winning determination result 1 is specified to the winning determination result 7 is specified). The hit prefetch effect pattern determination table shown in FIG. Then, the CPU 101 for effect control converts the pre-read effect pattern into the first pre-read effect pattern and the second pre-read effect pattern at a ratio determined for each total reserved memory number in the loss-read-ahead effect pattern determination table shown in FIG. And decide to either.

  For example, the display result of the variable display shown by the determination result at the time of winning is a win (for example, “normal big hit”, “probable big hit”, “suddenly probable big hit” or “small hit”), and the total number of reserved memories is 2. In some cases, the effect control CPU 101 determines the prefetch effect pattern as the first prefetch effect pattern at a rate of 35% and the second prefetch effect pattern at a rate of 65%. Further, for example, when the display result of the variable display indicated by the determination result at the time of winning is “out of” and the total number of reserved memories is 2, the effect control CPU 101 sets the prefetch effect pattern to a ratio of 65%. The first prefetch effect pattern is determined as the second prefetch effect pattern at a rate of 35%.

  The prefetch effect pattern determination table shown in FIG. 30 is characterized in that the display result of the variable display is a hit (for example, “normal big hit”, “probability big hit” compared to the case where the display result of the variable display is “out of”. ”,“ Suddenly probable big hit ”or“ Small hit ”), the determination value is set so that the ratio determined in the second look-ahead effect pattern is higher. By having such a feature, when a pre-reading effect is performed with the second pre-reading effect pattern (that is, when the hold display is displayed in a special mode at the time of start winning, and then changed to a special mode and displayed) ) In the variable display of the notice target compared to when the prefetch effect is performed in the first prefetch effect pattern (that is, when the hold display is displayed in the special mode without being displayed once in the special mode). The rate of occurrence of can be increased. In addition, when the display result of the variable display is “normal big hit” or “probable big hit”, since the final display mode is determined to be the second special mode, the pre-read effect is performed in the second pre-read effect pattern. (That is, when the hold display is displayed in a special mode at the time of winning the start, and then changed to a special mode and displayed), the hold display displayed in the special mode is a big hit than the first special mode. The rate of change to the second special mode having a high expectation level becomes high. Therefore, attention can be paid to which prefetch effect pattern is used for the prefetch effect. Further, when the pre-reading effect is performed in the second pre-reading effect pattern (that is, when the hold display is displayed in the special mode at the time of starting winning), the hold display displayed in the special mode is expected more than the first special mode. Since it is easy to change to the 2nd special mode with a high degree, a sense of expectation can be raised and game entertainment can be improved. Further, in this embodiment, the hold display displayed in the special mode changes to the first special mode or the second special mode until the variable display corresponding to the hold display (holding information) is started. Since it is displayed, the expectation can be maintained from when the hold display is displayed in a special mode until it changes to a special mode.

  In addition, what is characteristic in the prefetching effect pattern determination table shown in FIG. 30 is that, when the total pending storage number is 1, a determination value is set so as not to be determined as the second prefetching effect pattern. In this embodiment, in the second look-ahead effect pattern, the timing for displaying the hold display displayed in the special mode at the time of starting winning a prize is changed from the special mode to the first special mode or the second special mode. This is an arbitrary shift timing until the variable display is started. However, if the total number of pending storage is 1 (that is, only the pending display corresponding to the variable display of the notice target is displayed), if the hold display is shifted once, the variable display of the notice target is supported. The hold display to be erased. For this reason, when the total number of pending storage is 1, the display mode of the pending display corresponding to the noticed change display cannot be changed at the shift timing. Therefore, when the total pending storage number is 1, the determination value is set so that the second prefetch effect pattern is not determined.

  In this embodiment, in order to simplify the description, in the first look-ahead effect pattern, the timing at which the hold display is changed from the normal mode to the first special mode or the second special mode, and the second In the pre-reading production pattern, the timing at which the hold display is changed from the special mode to the first special mode or the second special mode is set as an arbitrary shift timing until the change display of the notice target is started. However, the timing is not limited to this, and may be other timing. For example, the display mode may be changed at an arbitrary timing during the variation display (a period spanning one variation display or a plurality of variation displays) that is executed until the variation display of the notice target is started. In this case, for example, even when the total number of reserved memories is 1, the second look-ahead effect pattern can be determined, the hold display is displayed in a special manner at the time of starting winning, and the hold display (hold information) corresponds to the hold display. The display may be changed from the special mode to the first special mode or the second special mode before the variable display is started.

  In the example shown in FIG. 30, when the display result shown in the determination result at the time of winning is a win (for example, “normal big hit”, “probable big hit”, “suddenly probable big hit” or “small hit”) For example, even if the display result is a hit, the case of “normal big hit” or “probable big hit” and “suddenly probable big hit” or “ A prefetch effect pattern determination table for determining any one of the prefetch effect patterns at a different rate in the case of “small hit” may be provided. Further, for example, as with the pre-reading effect execution determination table of FIG. 29A, a pre-reading effect pattern determination table for determining any pre-reading effect pattern at a different ratio is provided for each variation pattern indicated by the winning determination result. You may do it. By doing so, when the pre-reading effect is executed with the first pre-reading effect pattern, a high-expectation reach effect is performed in addition to increasing the ratio of occurrence of big hits in the variable display of the notice target. The ratio can also be increased.

  When the pre-read effect pattern is determined, the effect control CPU 101 determines a change timing (in this example, the number of shifts of the hold display) for changing the display mode of the hold display corresponding to the change display (hold information) to be notified. The determined change timing (number of shifts) is set in a shift number counter for specifying the change timing (number of shifts) (step S67108). In this embodiment, the timing at which the display mode of the hold display corresponding to the fluctuating display (hold information) to be notified changes is any hold display shift timing. Therefore, by determining the change timing (the number of shifts), it is determined how many times the display mode is changed with respect to the hold display corresponding to the noticeable change display. For example, when the change timing (number of shifts) is determined to be 2, the display mode of the hold display is changed at the timing when the second shift is performed with respect to the hold display corresponding to the change display to be notified.

  FIG. 31 is an explanatory diagram of a change timing determination table. In step S67108, the effect control CPU 101 determines the change timing (the number of shifts) of the hold display corresponding to the change display to be notified based on the change timing determination table and the total hold storage number. Specifically, the CPU 101 for effect control is hit by the display result of the variable display indicated by the latest extracted winning determination result (for example, “normal big hit”, “probability big hit”, “sudden probability big hit” or “small” 31 (A) when the prefetch effect pattern determined in step S67107 is the first prefetch effect pattern. The first pre-reading effect change timing determination table shown in FIG. Then, the effect control CPU 101 changes the hold display corresponding to the change display of the notice target at a ratio determined for each total hold memory number in the first prefetch effect change timing determination table at the time of hit shown in FIG. The timing (number of shifts) is determined to be 0 (at the time of winning a prize) to 7.

  In the example shown in FIG. 31, the fact that the change timing (number of shifts) is 0 means that the hold display is displayed in the first special mode or the second special mode at the start winning timing. When displaying the hold display in the first special mode or the second special mode at the timing of the start winning prize, for example, it is realized by displaying the new hold display from the beginning in the first special mode or the second special mode. Alternatively, it may be realized by displaying the new hold display once in the normal mode and immediately changing to the first special mode or the second special mode.

  In addition, in the effect control CPU 101, the display result of the variable display indicated by the latest extracted winning determination result is “out of” (that is, when the winning determination result 1 designation to the winning determination result 7 designation), When the prefetch effect pattern determined in step S67107 is the first prefetch effect pattern, the detachment first prefetch effect change timing determination table shown in FIG. 31B is used. Then, the effect control CPU 101 changes the hold display corresponding to the change display of the notice target at a ratio determined for each total hold memory number in the first prefetch effect change timing determination table at the time of failure shown in FIG. The timing (number of shifts) is determined to be 0 (at the time of winning a prize) to 7.

  Further, the effect control CPU 101 wins the display result of the variable display indicated by the latest extracted winning determination result (for example, “normal big hit”, “probability big hit”, “sudden probability big hit” or “small hit”). (That is, when the winning determination result 8 is designated to the winning determination result 13 is designated), and the prefetch effect pattern determined in step S67107 is the second prefetch effect pattern, the winning time shown in FIG. A second look-ahead effect change timing determination table is used. Then, the CPU 101 for effect control changes the hold display corresponding to the variable display of the notice target at the ratio determined for each total hold memory number in the second prefetch effect change timing determination table at the time of hit shown in FIG. The timing (number of shifts) is determined to be 0 (at the time of winning a prize) to 7.

  In addition, in the effect control CPU 101, the display result of the variable display indicated by the latest extracted winning determination result is “out of” (that is, when the winning determination result 1 designation to the winning determination result 7 designation), When the prefetch effect pattern determined in step S67107 is the second prefetch effect pattern, the detachment second prefetch effect change timing determination table shown in FIG. 31D is used. Then, the CPU 101 for effect control changes the hold display corresponding to the variable display of the notice target at the ratio determined for each total hold memory number in the second prefetch effect change timing determination table at the time of loss shown in FIG. The timing (number of shifts) is determined to be 0 (at the time of winning a prize) to 7.

  For example, when using the first pre-reading effect change timing determination table for winning, if the total number of reserved memories is 3, the effect control CPU 101 sets the change timing (number of shifts) to 0 (winning) at a rate of 50%. The change timing (number of shifts) is determined as 1 at a rate of 30%, and the change timing (number of shifts) is determined as 2 at a rate of 20%. Further, when using the first look-ahead effect change timing determination table at the time of loss, if the total number of reserved memories is 3, the effect control CPU 101 sets the change timing (number of shifts) to 0 (winning) at a rate of 20%. The change timing (number of shifts) is determined as 1 at a rate of 30%, and the change timing (number of shifts) is determined as 2 at a rate of 50%.

  Also, for example, when using the second pre-reading effect change timing determination table at the time of hitting, if the total number of reserved memories is 3, the effect control CPU 101 sets the change timing (number of shifts) to 1 at a rate of 30%. And the change timing (number of shifts) is determined to be 2 at a ratio of 70%. Further, when using the second pre-reading effect change timing determination table at the time of loss, if the total number of reserved memories is 3, the effect control CPU 101 determines the change timing (number of shifts) as 1 at a ratio of 70%. The change timing (number of shifts) is determined to be 2 at a rate of 30%.

  The prefetch effect change timing determination table shown in FIG. 31 is characterized in that, in the case of the first prefetch effect pattern, the display result of the variable display is more favorable than the case where the display result of the variable display is “out”. (For example, “normal big hit”, “probable big hit”, “sudden probability big hit” or “small hit”) It has been done. By having such a feature, when a prefetch effect is performed with the first prefetch effect pattern (that is, when the hold display is displayed in a special mode without being displayed once in a special mode), the hold display is performed. If the number of shifts is changed from the normal mode to the special mode with a smaller number of shifts, the percentage of occurrence of hits in the variable display of the notice target can be increased, and is displayed in a special mode at the time of start winning (shift number 0) Therefore, the rate of occurrence of hits can be increased. Therefore, interest can be given to the timing at which the hold display changes, and the game entertainment can be enhanced.

  The prefetch effect change timing determination table shown in FIG. 31 is characterized in that the display result of the variable display is more favorable in the case of the second prefetch effect pattern than in the case where the display result of the variable display is “out”. (For example, “Normal big hit”, “Probability big hit”, “Sudden probability big hit” or “Small hit”) It has been done. By having such a feature, when a pre-reading effect is performed in the second pre-reading effect pattern (that is, when the hold display is displayed in a special mode at the time of winning a start and then changed to a special mode), When the special mode hold display is changed to the special mode with a larger number of shifts (that is, after many shifts are performed), the ratio of occurrence of hit in the variable display of the notice target can be increased. In other words, the longer the period from when the hold display is displayed in the special mode to when it changes to the special mode (that is, the slower the timing of the change), the higher the rate of occurrence of the hit in the variable display of the notice target. . Therefore, the hold display can be changed at a plurality of timings, and attention can be paid to the timing at which the hold display displayed in a special mode changes, so that the game entertainment can be enhanced.

  In this embodiment, in order to simplify the explanation, the timing of changing the display mode of the hold display is set as an arbitrary shift timing until the display of the change of the notice target is started. In the case where the display mode can be changed at an arbitrary timing until the display is started, for example, a plurality of types of change timing patterns that can specify the timing to change (such as during specific shift timing or during specific fluctuation display). May be provided, and either one may be selected according to the determination result at the time of winning.

  In the example shown in FIG. 31, in the case of the first look-ahead effect pattern, the smaller the number of shifts (that is, the earlier the timing of change), the more advantageous. However, in order to make it easier for the player to understand, for example, in the case of the first look-ahead effect pattern, the number of shifts is greater (that is, the change is changed). It may be set such that the later the timing is, the more advantageous. Further, for example, in the case of the second look-ahead effect pattern, it may be set such that the smaller the number of shifts (that is, the earlier the change timing), the more advantageous.

  Further, in the example shown in FIG. 31, when the display result indicated by the determination result at the time of winning is a win (for example, “normal big hit”, “probable big hit”, “suddenly probable big hit” or “small hit”) For example, even if the display result is a hit, the case of “normal big hit” or “probable big hit” and “suddenly probable big hit” or “ A change timing determination table for determining any change timing (number of shifts) at a different rate in the case of “small hit” may be provided. Also, for example, similar to the pre-reading effect execution determination table in FIG. 29A, a change determined at any one of the change timings (the number of shifts) at a different rate for each variation pattern indicated by the winning determination result. A timing determination table may be provided. By doing so, according to the change timing of the hold display corresponding to the change display of the notice target, the ratio of occurrence of the big hit in the change display of the notice target is different and the ratio that the reach effect with high expectation is performed Can also be different.

  In this embodiment, in the second look-ahead effect pattern, a new hold display is displayed in a special mode at the start winning timing, but the hold display is displayed in a normal mode at the start winning timing, and any later It is also possible to change from the normal mode to the special mode at the timing, and further change from the special mode to the special mode at any later timing.

  When the change timing (the number of shifts) is determined, the effect control CPU 101 performs the hold display change timing when the prefetch effect pattern determined in step S67107 is the second prefetch effect pattern (Y in step S67109). An effect mode of the suggestion effect is determined (step S67110). In this embodiment, a suggestion effect that suggests that the display mode of the hold display is changed can be executed at the shift timing. In addition, the suggestion effect is executed in the first effect mode or the second effect mode. In step S67110, the effect mode of the suggestion effect executed at the change timing of the hold display is determined as either the first effect mode or the second effect mode.

  In this embodiment, the hold display changes to the first special mode or the second special mode at a different rate according to the effect mode of the suggestion effect. Specifically, when the suggestion effect is executed in the first effect mode, the ratio of the hold display changing to the first special mode is high, and when the suggestion effect is executed in the second effect mode, the hold effect is held. The rate at which the display changes to the second special mode is high. Therefore, it is suggested that the display mode of the hold display changes by executing the suggestion effect, and depending on which effect mode the suggestion effect is executed, which special mode is likely to change? It is suggested. Although the details will be described later, the suggestion effect is also executed at a shift timing other than the change timing of the hold display. Therefore, in order to distinguish them, the suggestion effect executed at the change timing of the hold display is also referred to as the suggestion effect (success pattern), and the suggestion effect executed at the shift timing other than the change timing of the hold display is indicated as the suggestion effect (passing) It is also called a pattern. In this embodiment, both the suggestion effect (success pattern) and the suggestion effect (passage pattern) are executed in the first effect mode or the second effect mode. Therefore, the ratio at which the display mode of the hold display changes may vary depending on the presentation mode of the suggestion effect. For example, when the suggestion effect is executed in the first effect mode (for example, the first effect mode A different from the first effect mode and the second effect mode of this embodiment), the hold display changes. The suggestion effect is executed in the second effect mode (for example, the first effect mode B may be different from the first effect mode, the second effect mode, and the first effect mode A of this embodiment). In such a case, the rate at which the hold display changes may be increased. That is, when the suggestion effect is executed in the first effect mode (first effect mode A), the ratio of the suggestion effect (success pattern) is high, and the suggestion effect is the second effect mode (first effect mode B). In the case where it is executed, the ratio of the suggestion effect (passing pattern) may be increased.

  FIG. 32 is an explanatory diagram of a suggestion effect mode determination table. In step S67110, the effect control CPU 101 uses the suggestion effect mode determination table shown in FIG. 32 to determine the effect mode of the suggestion effect performed at the change timing of the hold display. Specifically, based on the latest extracted winning determination result, the effect mode is set to the first effect mode or the ratio determined for each winning determination result (variable display display result) in the final display mode determination table. It is determined as one of the second effect modes. For example, when the winning determination result indicates that the display result of the variable display is “out of” (corresponding to the winning determination result 1 designation to the winning determination result 7 designation), the effect control CPU 101 The production mode is determined as the first production mode at a rate of 80%, and the production mode is determined as the second production mode at the rate of 20%. Further, for example, when the winning determination result indicates that the display result of the variable display is “ordinary big hit” or “probable big hit” (corresponding to the winning determination result 8 designation to the winning determination result 12 designation). In other words, the production control CPU 101 determines the production mode as the first production mode at a rate of 20% and determines the production mode as the second production mode at a rate of 80%. Further, for example, when the winning determination result indicates that the display result of the variable display is “suddenly probable big hit” or “small hit” (corresponding to designation of the winning determination result 13), for effect control. The CPU 101 determines the production mode as the first production mode at a rate of 50%, and determines the production mode as the second production mode at a rate of 50%.

  In the suggestion effect mode determination table shown in FIG. 32, the display result is that the display result is “out of” (equivalent to the determination result 1 at the time of winning determination to the determination result 7 at the time of winning determination). In the case of “ordinary big hit” or “probability big hit” (equivalent to the determination result 8 when winning a prize to the determination result 12 when winning), the ratio determined as the second effect mode is set to be higher. That is. By having such a feature, when the suggestion effect is executed in the second effect mode, the ratio of occurrence of big hits in the variable display of the notice target is higher than when the suggestion effect is displayed in the first effect mode. can do. In addition, when the display result of the variable display is “normal big hit” or “probable big hit”, since the final display mode of the hold display is high in the second special mode, the suggestive stage is executed in the second stage. In such a case, the rate at which the display mode of the hold display changes to the second special mode having a higher expectation than the first special mode is increased. Therefore, it is possible to give diversity to the suggestion effect, and it is possible to focus on which suggestion effect is executed and to improve the game entertainment.

  Note that in the example shown in FIG. 32, the suggested effects are produced for each display result (“out-going”, “ordinary big hit” or “probable big hit” or “suddenly probable big hit” or “small hit”) shown in the winning determination result. Although the ratio for determining the mode is determined, for example, as in the pre-reading effect execution determination table in FIG. 29A, the effect mode of the suggested effect is determined for each variation pattern indicated by the determination result at the time of winning. A determination value (ratio) may be set. By doing so, when the suggestion effect is executed in the second effect mode, in addition to increasing the rate at which the big hit is generated in the variable display of the notification target, the rate at which the reach effect with high expectation is performed Can also be high.

  In this embodiment, the suggestion effect is always executed at the shift timing at which the display mode of the hold display changes. However, the suggestion effect may not be executed. In this case, since the display mode of the hold display can be suddenly changed without being suggested by the suggestion effect, an unexpected feeling can be enhanced.

  Further, in this embodiment, two types of effect modes, the first effect mode and the second effect mode, are provided as the effect modes of the suggestion effect, but not limited to this, three or more effect modes are provided. The degree of expectation may be different (the ratio selected according to the display result is different).

  When the effect mode of the suggestion effect is determined, the effect control CPU 101 sets a prefetch effect restriction flag indicating that execution of the prefetch effect is restricted (step S67111).

  When the prefetch effect restriction flag is set, control is performed so that the prefetch effect is not repeatedly executed by the process of step S67101. That is, in this embodiment, when any one of the hold displays is displayed in a special manner, control is performed so as not to newly perform a prefetch effect. Therefore, it is restricted that a plurality of hold displays are displayed in a special manner. Therefore, by displaying a plurality of hold displays in a special manner, it is possible to prevent the player from being confused about which hold display should be noted.

  In this embodiment, when any hold display is displayed in a special manner, control is performed so that the pre-reading effect is not executed repeatedly. This may be allowed at a fixed rate or completely. In other words, the processing in step S67111 may be omitted at a certain rate or completely, thereby allowing a plurality of held displays to be displayed in a special manner at a certain rate or completely. In addition, for example, even when any one of the hold displays is displayed in the first special mode or the second special mode without being limited to the special mode, the pre-reading effect may be controlled not to be repeatedly executed. For example, when the process of step S67114 is executed, when the process of step S67115 is executed, or when it is determined that it is time to change the hold display from the normal mode to the special mode in the effect symbol variation start process described later (for example, This can be realized by setting a prefetch effect restriction flag in step S1803). In this case, the prefetch effect restriction flag may be reset when the hold display displayed in the special mode is erased (that is, the prefetch effect is displayed while the hold display is displayed in the special mode. Execution is restricted). By doing in this way, when any hold display is displayed in a display mode other than the normal mode, it is restricted that other hold display is displayed in a display mode other than the normal mode due to a new prefetch effect. Therefore, it becomes easy for the player to know which hold display should be noted.

  Further, for example, when any one of the hold displays is displayed in the special mode, the first special mode, or the second special mode, a new prefetch effect may be easily executed. In other words, the pre-reading effects may be easily executed repeatedly. Further, for example, in the case of a specific gaming state (for example, a probable change state or a short time state), the pre-reading effect may be easily executed repeatedly. For example, in a configuration that allows a pre-read effect to be executed repeatedly at a certain rate, it can be realized by increasing the allowed rate in a specific gaming state.

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 performs control so that a new hold display is displayed in a special manner in the combined hold storage number display unit 18c (step S67112). In step S67112, the effect control CPU 101 controls to display a new hold display in a special mode, and also shows information indicating the final display mode determined in step S67106 and the effect of the suggested effect determined in step S67110. Information indicating the mode is stored in a storage area formed in the RAM. By storing these pieces of information, it is possible to specify which final display mode and the production mode of the suggestive effect are determined in the effect symbol variation start process described later.

  If the prefetch effect pattern determined in step S67107 is not the second prefetch effect pattern (N in step S67109), that is, if it is determined to be the first prefetch effect pattern, the effect control CPU 101 in step S67108. It is confirmed whether or not the determined change timing is at the time of starting winning (step S67113). Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the shift number counter is zero. If the change timing is at the time of start winning (Y in Step S67113), the effect control CPU 101 displays a new hold display in the final display mode determined in Step S67107 on the total hold storage number display unit 18c. (Step S67114).

  If the change timing is not at the time of winning in step S67113 (N in step S67113), the effect control CPU 101 determines the effect mode of the suggested effect performed at the change timing of the hold display, as in step S67110 described above ( Step S67115). Next, the effect control CPU 101 performs control so that a new hold display is displayed in a normal manner in the combined hold storage number display unit 18c (step S67116). Also in step S67116 (for example, only when the process proceeds from step S67115), the effect control CPU 101 controls to display a new hold display and the final display determined in step S67106 as in step S67112. The information indicating the mode and the information indicating the effect mode of the suggestion effect determined in step S67115 are stored in the storage area formed in the RAM. By storing these pieces of information, it is possible to specify which final display mode and the production mode of the suggestive effect are determined in the effect symbol variation start process described later.

  As described above, in this embodiment, when a winning determination result designation command is received, in the pre-reading effect determination process, a new hold display is any one of the normal mode, the special mode, the first special mode, or the second special mode. The display process is performed.

  In this embodiment, the variable display is executed in the order of winning one of the first special symbol and the second special symbol. However, priority is given to the variable display of either the first special symbol or the second special symbol. And (2) only the variable display of the second special symbol, and (2) only the variable display of the second special symbol. There are three types of configurations: a configuration in which a pre-reading effect is performed on the subject, and (3) a configuration in which a pre-reading effect is performed on the variable display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol. .

  When the configuration of (1) above is added to the configuration that prioritizes the variable display of the second special symbol, the shift counter is set according to the upper limit value (4 in this example) of the first reserved memory count. Is set to a maximum of 4. However, even if the pre-reading effect that changes the display mode of the hold display corresponding to the variable display of the first special symbol is executed in the configuration of (1) above, 2 Since the special symbol variation display is interrupted and executed (prioritized rather than in winning order), for example, when the second special symbol variation display is performed, an effect symbol which will be described later is provided even at the shift timing. It is desirable that the shift number counter value is not subtracted in step S1802b of the fluctuation start process. Similarly, in the configuration of (3) above, when the pre-reading effect that changes the display mode of the hold display corresponding to the variation display of the first special symbol is executed, the variation display of the second special symbol is similarly performed. Is preferably configured so as not to subtract the value of the shift number counter in step S1802b of the effect symbol variation start process described later.

  Further, when the configuration of (2) above is added to the configuration in which the variable display of the second special symbol is preferentially executed, the shift is performed according to the upper limit value of the second reserved storage number (4 in this example). A maximum of 4 is set in the number counter. In this case, unlike the configuration of (1) above, the value of the shift counter is subtracted when the shift timing is reached, regardless of whether the first special symbol or the second special symbol is displayed. Similarly, in the configuration of (3) above, when a pre-reading effect that changes the display mode of the hold display corresponding to the variable display of the second special symbol is executed, either the first special symbol or the second special symbol is similarly executed. Even when the variable display is performed, the value of the shift counter is subtracted at the shift timing.

  In addition, when it is configured to preferentially execute the variation display of the second special symbol, the pre-reading effect is not performed for the variation display of the first special symbol during the high base. May be. In addition, when it is configured to preferentially execute the variation display of the second special symbol, it is configured not to perform the pre-reading effect based on winning in the first start winning opening 13 during the big hit game. Also good. In such a configuration, for example, during a high base game or a big hit game, even if the game control microcomputer 560 receives a prize at the first start prize opening 13, the winning effect process in step S1217 is executed. Even if it is decided not to discard the winning determination result designation command received by the effect control microcomputer 560 or to execute the pre-read effect, it can be realized by performing control so as not to execute. . Further, when the configuration of (3) above is added to the configuration that preferentially executes the variation display of the second special symbol, the pre-read based on the winning at the first start winning opening 13 during the high base or big hit game Although no effect is performed, a pre-reading effect based on winning at the second start winning opening 14 may be performed. In such a configuration, for example, during a high base game or a big hit game, even if the game control microcomputer 560 receives a prize at the first start prize opening 13, the winning effect process in step S1217 is executed. Even if it is decided not to discard the winning determination result designation command based on the winning to the first start winning opening 13 received by the production control microcomputer 560 or to execute the pre-reading effect, it is not executed. It can be realized by controlling as described above.

  In addition, when adding the structure of said (1) to the structure which preferentially performs the variable display of a 2nd special symbol, in the state where the pending | holding memory | storage based on the winning to the 2nd start winning opening 14 exists. When a winning at the first start winning opening 13 occurs, the pre-reading effect for the reserved storage based on the winning at the first starting winning opening 13 may not be executed. In addition, when the configuration of (1) is added to the configuration that preferentially executes the variation display of the second special symbol, the pre-reading effect for the reserved memory based on the winning at the first start winning opening 13 is added. If a winning to the second start winning opening 14 occurs in a state where the execution is determined, the execution of the pre-reading effect that has already been determined may be canceled.

  In this embodiment, the variable display is executed in the order of winning one of the first special symbol and the second special symbol. However, the pre-reading effect is performed only for the variable display of the first special symbol (the above ( 1)), or a configuration (the above (2)) that performs a pre-reading effect only for the variable display of the second special symbol may be added. In this embodiment, the variable display is executed in the order of winning one of the first special symbol and the second special symbol. For example, during the high base game or the big hit game, the first start winning port 13 is displayed. The pre-reading effect based on the winning of may not be performed.

  FIG. 33 is a flowchart showing the effect control process (step S705) in the main process shown in FIG. In the effect control process, the effect control CPU 101 performs one of steps S800 to S806 according to the value of the effect control process flag. In each process, the following process is executed. In the effect control process, the display state of the effect display device 9 is controlled and variable display of the effect symbol is realized. However, control related to variable display of the effect symbol synchronized with the change of the first special symbol is also the second. Control related to the variable display of the effect symbol synchronized with the change of the special symbol is also executed in one effect control process.

  Fluctuation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800): It is confirmed whether or not a variation pattern command has been received from the game control microcomputer 560. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not the variation pattern command reception flag set in the command analysis process is set. If the change pattern command has been received, the value of the effect control process flag is changed to a value corresponding to the effect symbol change start process (step S801).

  Production symbol variation start processing (step S801): Control is performed so that the variation of the production symbol is started. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the effect symbol changing process (step S802).

  Production symbol variation processing (step S802): Controls the switching timing of each variation state (variation speed) constituting the variation pattern and monitors the end of the variation time. When the variation time ends, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the effect symbol variation stop process (step S803).

  Effect symbol variation stop processing (step S803): Based on the reception of the effect control command (design determination designation command) for instructing all symbols to stop, the effect symbol variation is stopped and the display result (stop symbol) is derived and displayed. Take control. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the jackpot display process (step S804) or the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800).

  Big hit display process (step S804): After the end of the variation time, control is performed to display a screen for notifying the effect display device 9 of the occurrence of the big hit. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the big hit game processing (step S805).

  Big hit game processing (step S805): Control during big hit game is performed. For example, when a special winning opening opening designation command or a special winning opening open designation command is received, display control of the number of rounds in the effect display device 9 is performed. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the jackpot end effect process (step S806).

  Big hit end effect processing (step S806): In the effect display device 9, display control for notifying the player that the big hit gaming state has ended is performed. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800).

  FIG. 34 is a flowchart showing a variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800) in the effect control process shown in FIG. In the variation pattern command reception waiting process, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the variation pattern command reception flag is set (step S811). If the variation pattern command reception flag is set, the variation pattern command reception flag is reset (step S812). Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the effect symbol variation start process (step S801) (step S813).

  FIG. 35 is a flowchart showing the effect symbol variation start process (step S801) in the effect control process shown in FIG. In the effect symbol variation start process, the effect control CPU 101 first deletes the first winning determination result (oldest determination result) stored in the winning determination result storage buffer, and the contents of the winning determination result storage buffer , The first hold display in the combined hold storage display unit 18c is erased, the remaining hold display is shifted one by one, and the combined hold storage number display in the combined hold storage display unit 18c is updated ( Step S1800). For example, when the first to fifth hold displays of the combined hold storage display unit 18c are displayed, the first hold display is erased at the shift timing and the second hold display is displayed. The hold display is shifted to the first display area, the hold display displayed at the third is shifted to the second display area, and the hold display displayed at the fourth is the third display. The hold display which has been shifted to the area and displayed in the fifth is shifted to the fourth display area. In the case where the variable display of either the first special symbol or the second special symbol is preferentially executed, the effect control CPU 101 is synchronized with the variable display of the first special symbol. When the effect symbol variation display is executed (specifically, when the first symbol variation designation command reception flag is set), the first winning determination result storage buffer stores the first one. The winning determination result is deleted, and the contents of the first winning determination result storage buffer are shifted. In addition, when the variation display of the effect symbol is executed in synchronization with the variation display of the second special symbol (specifically, when the second symbol variation designation command reception flag is set), at the time of the second winning The first winning determination result stored in the determination result storage buffer is deleted, and the contents of the second winning determination result storage buffer are shifted.

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the value of the shift number counter for specifying the change timing (number of shifts) is greater than 0 (step S1801). The fact that the value of the shift counter is larger than 0 means that it is determined to execute a pre-reading effect that changes the display mode for any of the hold displays displayed in the combined hold storage display unit 18c. Is shown. Therefore, in step S1801, it is confirmed whether or not it is determined to execute the prefetch effect (change the display mode of the hold display).

  If the value of the shift counter is not greater than 0 (N in step S1801), that is, it is determined that the value of the shift counter is 0 and the prefetch effect is executed (the display mode of the hold display is changed). If not, the effect control CPU 101 moves the process to step S1804.

  On the other hand, if the value of the shift counter is greater than 0 (Y in step S1801), that is, if it is determined to execute the prefetch effect (change the display mode of the hold display), it is for effect control. The CPU 101 subtracts 1 from the value of the effect total storage number counter (step S1802a). The effect control CPU 101 subtracts 1 from the value of the shift counter (step S1802b). Next, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the value of the shift counter is 0 (step S1803). As a result of decrementing the value of the shift number counter by 1 in step S1802b, the value of the shift number counter has become 0. This means that any display mode of the hold display displayed on the combined hold storage display unit 18c is displayed. It shows that it is the timing to execute the prefetch effect to be changed. Therefore, in step S1803, it is confirmed whether or not it is the change timing of the prefetch effect that changes the display mode of the hold display.

  In step S1803, if the value of the shift number counter is not 0, that is, if it is not the change timing of the prefetch effect that changes the display mode of the hold display, the effect control CPU 101 shifts the process to step S1804. On the other hand, when the value of the shift number counter is 0, that is, when it is the change timing of the prefetch effect that changes the display mode of the hold display, the effect control CPU 101 shifts the processing to step S1808.

  In step S1804, the effect control CPU 101 reads the variation pattern command from the variation pattern command storage area (step S1804).

  Next, the CPU 101 for effect control displays the display result of the effect symbol (ie, the received display result specifying command) in accordance with the variation pattern command read in step S1804 and the data stored in the display result specifying command storage area (ie, the received display result specifying command). A stop symbol is determined (step S1805). That is, when the CPU 101 for effect control executes the process of step S1805, the display result of the variable display of the identification information (stop of the effect symbol) according to the variable display pattern (variation pattern) determined by the variable display pattern determination means. A display result determining means for determining (design) is realized. The effect control CPU 101 stores data indicating the determined effect stop symbols in the effect symbol display result storage area.

  FIG. 36 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the stop symbol of the effect symbol in the effect display device 9. In the example shown in FIG. 36, when the received display result designation command indicates a normal jackpot (when the received display result designation command is a display result 2 designation command), the effect control CPU 101 uses the stop design as a stop symbol. A combination of effect symbols in which the three symbols are even-numbered symbols (a stop symbol that usually reminds of the occurrence of a big hit) is determined. When the received display result designation command indicates a probable big hit (when the received display result designation command is a display result 3 designation command), the production control CPU 101 uses odd symbols (probability variation) as 3 symbols as stop symbols. The combination of effect symbols arranged in a stop symbol reminiscent of the occurrence of a big hit) is determined. And in the case of detachment (when the received display result designation command is a display result 1 designation command), a combination of effect symbols other than the above is determined. However, when a reach effect is involved, a combination of effect symbols in which two left and right symbols are aligned is determined. When the received display result designation command suddenly shows a probable big hit or small hit (when the received display result designation command is a display result 4 designation command or a display result 5 designation command), the CPU 101 for effect control Determines a combination of effect symbols such as “135” as stop symbols. The combination of the three symbols derived and displayed on the effect display device 9 is the “stop symbol” of the effect symbol.

  The effect control CPU 101 extracts, for example, a random number for determining the stop symbol, and uses the stop symbol determination table in which the data indicating the combination of effect symbols and numerical values are associated with each other to generate the stop symbol of the effect symbol. decide. That is, the stop symbol is determined by selecting data indicating the combination of effect symbols corresponding to the numerical value matching the extracted random number.

  As for the effect symbols, a stop symbol that recalls a big hit is called a big hit symbol. In addition, a stop symbol reminiscent of a probable big hit is called a probable big hit symbol, and a stop symbol reminiscent of a normal big hit is called a normal big hit symbol. And a stop symbol that reminds of a loss is called a loss symbol.

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 determines a suggestion effect mode that suggests that the display mode of the hold display changes (step S1806). Here, the process of step S1806 is not executed at the timing at which the display mode of the hold display changes due to the pre-reading effect. Therefore, in step S1806, although it is suggested that the display mode of the hold display changes, as a result, the effect mode of the suggestive effect to be executed when the display mode does not change is determined. In addition, in order to distinguish from the suggestion effect (success pattern) executed when the display mode of the hold display changes, the suggestion effect executed when the display mode does not change is also referred to as the suggestion effect (passing pattern).

  In step S1806, when the prefetch effect restriction flag is not set, that is, when any hold display is not displayed in a special manner on the combined hold display unit 18c, the effect control CPU 101 indicates the suggestion shown in FIG. The ratio of the effect (passing pattern) determination table is determined not to execute the suggesting effect (passing pattern) or to execute in the first effect mode or the second effect mode. Further, when the prefetch effect restriction flag is set, that is, when any hold display is displayed in a special manner in the combined hold display unit 18c, the effect control CPU 101 indicates the suggested effect shown in FIG. It is determined that the suggestion effect (passage pattern) is not executed at the ratio of the (passage pattern) determination table, or is executed in the first effect mode or the second effect mode. In addition, in the suggestion effect (passing pattern) determination table, determination values corresponding to the determination items (“no effect”, “first effect mode”, or “second effect mode”) are assigned. In the examples shown in A) and (B), the ratio of the assigned determination value is shown for the sake of simplicity. The effect control CPU 101 extracts, for example, a random number for determining the effect mode of the suggestion effect (passing pattern), and the determination items (“No effect”, “No. 1 effect mode "or" 2nd effect mode ").

  For example, when the pre-reading effect restriction flag is not set, that is, when any hold display is not displayed in a special manner in the combined hold display unit 18c, it is determined that the suggested effect (passing pattern) is not executed at a rate of 60%. The suggestion effect is determined to be executed in the first effect mode at a rate of 30%, and the suggestion effect is determined to be executed in the second effect mode at a rate of 10%. Further, when the pre-reading effect restriction flag is set, that is, when any hold display is displayed in a special manner in the combined hold display unit 18c, the suggested effect (passing pattern) must be executed at a rate of 0%. It is determined that the suggestion effect is executed in the first effect mode at a rate of 60%, and it is determined that the suggestion effect is executed in the second effect mode at a rate of 40%.

  As shown in FIGS. 35 (A) and 35 (B), in this embodiment, when the pre-reading effect restriction flag is set, that is, one of the hold displays is displayed in a special manner in the combined hold display unit 18c. If so, the suggestion effect is executed at a higher rate than in the case where it is not. Therefore, the expectation when the hold display is displayed in a special manner can be enhanced, and the game entertainment can be enhanced. In this embodiment, since the suggestion effect is executed even when the display mode of the hold display changes, the suggestion effect is always executed when the hold display is displayed in a special mode. However, even when the hold display is displayed in a special manner, the suggestion effect may not be executed. However, also in this case, it is desirable that the suggestive effect is executed at a higher rate than when the hold display is not displayed in a special manner.

  Further, when the pre-reading effect restriction flag is set, that is, when any hold display is displayed in a special mode in the total hold display unit 18c, the final display mode of the hold display is the first display mode or You may make it determine the production | presentation aspect of a suggestion effect in a different ratio to a 1st production | presentation aspect or a 2nd production | presentation aspect according to which is a 2nd display aspect. For example, when the final display mode is determined to be the second display mode with a higher expectation level than the first display mode, the suggestion effect mode is set to the second effect mode with a higher level of expectation than the first display mode. You may make it raise the ratio determined. Further, in this embodiment, as will be described later, display control in which an arrow jumps from the right side of the display area is performed in the effect display device 9 as a suggestion effect suggesting that the display mode of the hold display changes. When the display mode of the hold display changes (in the case of the suggestion effect (success pattern)), display control is performed in which the arrow that has been pierced pierces the hold display corresponding to the hold information to be notified. In addition, when the display mode of the hold display does not change (in the case of a suggestion effect (passing pattern)), display control is performed in which the flying arrow passes directly through the display area. Therefore, in step S1806, it is not necessary to specify the hold display corresponding to the hold information to be notified using the effect combined hold memory number counter as in step S1811 described later. For example, in the effect display device 9 as an suggestive effect that suggests that the display mode of the hold display changes at both the timing when the display mode of the hold display is changed and when it is not the timing, When it is time to change the display mode of the hold display when the arrow where the arrow flew from the right side of the display area is inserted into the hold display corresponding to the hold information to be notified and changes the display mode of the hold display, When the display mode is changed (corresponding to the suggestion effect (success pattern)) and it is not the timing to change the display mode of the hold display, the display mode of the hold display with an arrow stuck is not changed (the suggestion effect (passing pattern in this example) Equivalent to)). In this case, the effect control CPU 101 specifies a hold display corresponding to the hold information to be notified in step S1806 using the effect total hold memory number counter in step S1811 described later, and step S1807. The process table for executing the suggestion effect for the hold display specified in step 1 may be selected, or the hold display in which an arrow sticks out is randomly determined from the displayed hold displays, and the determined hold display is selected. A process table for executing the suggestion effect may be selected.

  Next, the CPU 101 for effect control selects a process table according to the effect mode and the variation pattern of the determined suggestion effect (passing pattern) (step S1807). Then, the process timer in the process data 1 of the selected process table is started (step S1812).

  FIG. 37 is an explanatory diagram of a configuration example of the process table. The process table is a table in which process data referred to when the effect control CPU 101 executes control of the effect device is set. That is, the effect control CPU 101 controls effect devices (effect components) such as the effect display device 9 according to the process data set in the process table. The process table includes data in which a plurality of combinations of process timer set values, display control execution data, lamp control execution data, and sound number data are collected. The display control execution data includes data indicating a variation aspect during a variable display time (variation time) of the variable display of the effect symbol, data indicating a prefetch effect aspect in the total pending storage display unit 18c, and a suggestion effect. The data etc. which show the aspect of are described. Specifically, data relating to the change of the display screen of the effect display device 9 is described. The process timer set value is set with a change time in the form of the change. The effect control CPU 101 refers to the process table and performs control to display the effect design in the variation mode set in the display control execution data for the time set in the process timer set value. In addition, even if it corresponds to the production control process timer determination value, the data corresponding to the production parts that are not to be controlled (for example, the prefetch production described in the display control execution data of the process table used when the prefetch production is not executed) Dummy data (data for which no control is specified) may be set in (data indicating the mode).

  The process table shown in FIG. 37 is stored in the ROM of the effect control board 80. A process table is prepared for each variation pattern.

  In addition, in the process table used when effect control is executed for a variation pattern with reach effect, the left symbol is stopped when a predetermined time has elapsed from the start of the variation, and the right symbol is stopped when a predetermined time further elapses. Process data indicating that it is to be displayed is set. In addition, instead of setting the symbols to be stopped and displayed in the process table, an image for displaying the symbols is synthesized and generated according to the determined stop symbol, the temporary stop symbol in the pseudo-ream and the sliding effect. May be.

  In addition, the CPU 101 for effect control, according to the contents of the process data 1 (display control execution data 1, lamp control execution data 1, sound number data 1), effects device (effect display device 9 as an effect component, effect component as an effect component) Control of various lamps and speakers 27R and 27L as effect parts is executed (step S1827). For example, a command is output to the VDP 109 in order to display an image according to the variation pattern on the effect display device 9. In addition, a control signal (lamp control execution data) is output to the lamp driver board 35 in order to perform on / off control of various lamps. In addition, a control signal (sound number data) is output to the audio output board 70 in order to output audio from the speakers 27R and 27L.

  In this embodiment, the effect control CPU 101 performs control so that the effect symbol is variably displayed by the change pattern corresponding to the change pattern command on a one-to-one basis. The variation pattern to be used may be selected from a plurality of types of variation patterns corresponding to.

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 sets a value corresponding to the variation time specified by the variation pattern command in the variation time timer (step S1814), and the value of the effect control process flag is processed during the effect symbol variation (step S802). (Step S1815).

  When it is determined in step S1803 that the value of the shift number counter is 0, that is, when it is the change timing of the prefetch effect that changes the display mode of the hold display, the effect control CPU 101 sets the prefetch effect restriction flag. If so, it is reset (step S1808). By executing such processing, in this embodiment, it is possible to restrict execution of a pre-reading effect during a period in which the hold display is displayed in a special manner, and a plurality of hold displays are special. It is possible to limit the display in a manner.

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 reads the variation pattern command from the variation pattern command storage area (step S1809). Next, the CPU 101 for effect control displays the display result of the effect symbol (ie, the received display result specifying command) in accordance with the variation pattern command read in step S1809 and the data stored in the display result specifying command storage area (ie, the received display result specifying command). A stop symbol is determined (step S1810).

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 selects a display mode change process table according to the effect mode of the suggestion effect, the final display mode of the hold display specified by the total reserved memory counter for the effect, and the variation pattern. (Step S1811). Then, control goes to a step S1812.

  The process table for changing the display mode is to execute the suggestion effect (success pattern) at the start of the change of the effect symbol and the pre-read effect that changes the display mode of the specific hold display together with the change display of the effect symbol. It is a table in which process data for performing control is set. In this embodiment, a plurality of types of process tables for changing display modes are provided according to the suggestion effect (success pattern) to be executed and the aspect of the prefetch effect. Moreover, in this embodiment, the presentation mode of the suggestion presentation (success pattern) determined in the pre-reading presentation determination process (step S67110 or S67115) (in this example, the first production mode or the second production mode). And an on-hold display of the production target specified by the production total reserved memory number counter (for example, when the value of the total on-hold storage number counter for production is 2, the second on-hold display in the total on-hold storage display unit 18c) In the pre-reading effect determination process (step S67106), the suggestion effect (success pattern) is determined in any manner based on the stored final display mode (in this example, the first display mode or the second display mode). ) Is executed, and it is possible to specify which pre-reading effect to change which hold display is changed to what display mode. Therefore, the CPU 101 for effect control has a plurality of types of display modes in accordance with the effect mode of the suggestion effect (success pattern), the final display mode of the hold display specified by the total pending storage number counter for effect, and the variation pattern. The production mode determined in the pre-reading production determination process by selecting one of the process tables for the change time and executing the control of the production device according to the contents of the process data 1 of the selected process table for the display mode change. The pre-production effect can be executed by executing the suggestion effect (success pattern) and changing the hold display corresponding to the fluctuating display of the notice target to the determined display mode.

  FIG. 38 is a flowchart showing the effect symbol changing process (step S802) in the effect control process. In the effect symbol variation processing, the effect control CPU 101 subtracts 1 from the value of the process timer (step S1841) and subtracts 1 from the value of the variation time timer (step S1842). When the process timer times out (step S1843), the process data is switched. That is, the process timer setting value set next in the process table is set in the process timer (step S1844). Further, the control state for the rendering device is changed based on the display control execution data, lamp control execution data, and sound number data set next (step S1845).

  Next, if the change time timer has timed out (step S1849), the effect control CPU 101 updates the value of the effect control process flag to a value corresponding to the effect symbol change stop process (step S803) (step S1851). Even if the variable time timer has not timed out, if the confirmation command reception flag indicating that the symbol confirmation designation command has been received is set (step S1850), the process proceeds to step S1851. Even if the variation time timer has not timed out, if the symbol confirmation designation command is received, the process shifts to control to stop variation.For example, a variation pattern command indicating a long variation time due to noise between substrates is received. Even in such a case, it is possible to end the variation of the effect symbol when the regular variation time has elapsed (when the variation of the special symbol ends).

  In this embodiment, the determination process including whether or not to perform the pre-reading effect based on the reception of the winning determination result designation command is executed in the pre-reading effect determination process. You may make it perform in the process during symbol fluctuation. For example, it is possible to execute a determination process including whether to perform a pre-reading effect by including a process of monitoring the winning determination result storage buffer in the effect symbol variation process.

  FIG. 39 is a flowchart showing the effect symbol variation stop process (step S803) in the effect control process. In the effect symbol variation stop process, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the confirmed command reception flag is set (step S851). If the confirmed command reception flag is set, the confirmed command reception flag is reset. In step S852, control is performed to derive and display the stop symbol in accordance with the data stored in the effect symbol display result storage area (data indicating the stop symbol) (step S853). Next, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not it is determined to be a big hit or a small hit (step S855). Whether it is determined to be a big hit or a small hit is confirmed, for example, by a display result designation command stored in the display result designation command storage area. In this embodiment, it can be confirmed whether or not it is determined to be a big hit or a small hit according to the determined stop symbol.

  If it is determined to be a big hit or a small hit, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the big hit display process (step S804) (step S856).

  When it is determined that neither the big hit nor the small hit is made, the effect control CPU 101 updates the value of the effect control process flag to a value corresponding to the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800) (step S800). S857).

  In this embodiment, the effect control microcomputer 100 ends the effect symbol variation (variable display) on the condition that the symbol confirmation designation command is received (see steps S851 and S853). However, when the variation time timer based on the received variation pattern command times out, control may be performed to end the variation of the effect symbol without receiving the symbol determination designation command. In this case, the game control microcomputer 560 may not transmit the symbol confirmation designation command for designating the end of variable display.

  FIG. 40 is a flowchart showing the jackpot display process (step S804) in the effect control process. In the jackpot display process, the effect control CPU 101 receives any jackpot start designation command reception flag (a jackpot start 1 designation command reception flag indicating that a jackpot start 1 designation command has been received, or a jackpot start 2 designation command has been received). It is confirmed whether the big hit start 2 designation command reception flag shown or the small hit / sudden probability sudden change big hit start designation command reception flag) indicating that the small hit / sudden probability big hit start designation command has been received is set (step S871). . If any one of the jackpot start designation command reception flags has been set, control is performed to display a game start screen corresponding to the set flag on the effect display device 9 (step S872). Also, the set flag (big hit start 1 designation command reception flag, big hit start 2 designation command reception flag, or small hit / sudden probability sudden hit big start start command reception flag) is reset (step S873). Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the big hit game processing (step S805) (step S874).

  It should be noted that, in addition to the process for displaying a big hit, a process for displaying a small hit is provided. In the case of a small hit, for example, a predetermined period (a big prize opening is opened twice for 0.1 seconds) Sufficient time (for example, 0.5 seconds) may be produced in the same manner as in the case of sudden big hit.

  In addition, in the case of a small hit or sudden probability variation big hit, the production control CPU 101 does not execute the production based on reception of the small hit / sudden probability sudden change big hit start designation command. Based on the reception of the fluctuation pattern command, an effect that suggests a small hit or suddenly probable big hit may be executed for a predetermined period. In this case, the CPU 101 for effect control switches the process data for performing an effect that suggests a small hit or a sudden probability change big hit every process time, and performs the effect according to the switched process data.

  In step S872, the effect control CPU 101 performs control to display on the effect display device 9 a screen for informing the start of the big hit game.

  FIG. 41 is a flowchart showing the jackpot end effect process (step S806) in the effect control process. In the jackpot end effect process, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the jackpot end effect timer is set (step S880). If the big hit end effect timer is set, the process proceeds to step S885. When the jackpot end effect timer is not set, a jackpot end designation command reception flag (a jackpot end 1 designation command reception flag, a jackpot end 2 designation command reception flag, a small hit / sudden suddenly indicating that a jackpot end designation command has been received) It is confirmed whether or not the probability variation big hit end command reception flag) is set (step S881). When the jackpot end designation command reception flag is set, the jackpot end designation command reception flag (the jackpot end 1 designation command reception flag, the jackpot end 2 designation command reception flag, or the small hit / sudden probability sudden change jackpot termination designation command reception flag) ) Is reset (step S882), a value corresponding to the jackpot end display time is set in the jackpot end effect timer (step S883), and the jackpot end screen (screen for informing the end of the jackpot game) is displayed on the effect display device 9 Is displayed (step S884). Specifically, an instruction to display the big hit end screen is given to the VDP 109.

  In step S885, 1 is subtracted from the value of the big hit end effect timer. Then, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the value of the jackpot end effect timer is 0, that is, whether or not the jackpot end effect time has elapsed (step S886). If not, the process ends. When the big hit end effect time has elapsed, the effect control CPU 101 resets the prefetch effect restriction flag if set (step S887).

  Then, the effect control CPU 101 updates the value of the effect control process flag to a value corresponding to the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800) (step S892).

  Next, a specific example of the prefetch effect will be described. FIG. 42 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of the prefetching effect based on the first prefetching effect pattern. As shown in FIG. 42 (A), in the effect display device 9, the effect symbols are being displayed in a variable manner, and the two on-hold displays are in the normal mode (“◯” in this example) on the combined hold storage display unit 18c. When a start winning is performed while being displayed, a prefetch effect mode (prefetch effect pattern, final display mode, change timing) and a suggestion effect mode are determined, and a new hold display is displayed according to the determination result. The In the example shown in FIG. 42, the pre-reading effect pattern is determined as the first pre-reading effect pattern, the final display mode is determined as the first special mode or the second special mode, and the change timing is set at the time of starting winning (number of shifts 0) or shift. Number of times 1 is determined. In addition, the production mode of the suggestion production (success pattern) is determined as the first production mode or the second production mode.

  In this embodiment, in the prefetching effect based on the first prefetching effect pattern, the hold display corresponding to the variable display (holding information) to be notified is not displayed once in the special form, but the first display of the final display form. It is displayed in a special mode or a second special mode. Moreover, the timing at which the hold display is displayed in the first special mode or the second special mode is a start winning timing or an arbitrary shift timing. Therefore, when the change timing is determined at the time of winning a start (the number of shifts is 0) and the final display mode is determined as the first special mode, as shown in FIG. A third hold display is displayed in the hold storage display portion 18c in the first special mode (in this example, “x” is included in “◯”). Further, when the change timing is determined at the time of the start winning (the number of shifts is 0) and the final display mode is determined to be the second special mode, as shown in FIG. The third hold display is displayed on the hold storage display portion 18c in the second special mode (in this example, two “x” s are included in “◯”).

  Even if the final display mode is the first special mode or the second special mode, the change timing is determined not at the start winning timing (number of shifts 0) but at an arbitrary shift timing (here, the number of shifts 1). In this case, as shown in FIG. 42 (B3), at the timing of the start winning prize, the third hold display is displayed in the normal hold mode (“◯” in this example) on the total hold storage display unit 18c. Then, when the variation display of the effect symbol is stopped (FIG. 42 (C)) and the variation display based on the hold information corresponding to the first hold display is started, the first hold display is erased. The first and third hold displays are shifted respectively.

  At this time, when the change timing is determined as the number of shifts 1 and the effect mode of the suggestion effect (success pattern) is determined as the first effect mode, the suggestion effect suggesting that the display mode of the hold display changes. In the effect display device 9, display control in which a black arrow flies from the right side of the display area is performed (FIG. 42 (D1)).

  When the final display mode is determined to be the first special mode, as shown in FIG. 42 (E1), the second hold display (see FIG. 42) of the total hold storage display unit 18c at the shift timing. (Equivalent to the hold display newly displayed in (B3)) An effect in which a black arrow is stabbed (a suggestion effect (success pattern) in the first effect mode) is performed, and a hold display in which a black arrow is struck is the first special mode (In this example, “x” is included in “◯”) and displayed. When the final display mode is determined to be the second special mode, as shown in FIG. 42 (E2), the second hold display (see FIG. 42) of the total hold storage display unit 18c at the shift timing. (Equivalent to the hold display newly displayed in (B3)) The effect that the black arrow is stabbed (the suggestion effect (success pattern) of the first effect mode) is performed, and the hold display that the black arrow is stabbed is the second special mode (In this example, two “x” are included in “◯”) and displayed.

  In addition, when the change timing is determined as the number of shifts 1 and the effect mode of the suggestion effect (success pattern) is determined as the second effect mode, the suggestion effect suggesting that the display mode of the hold display changes. In the effect display device 9, display control is performed in which white arrows fly from the right side of the display area (FIG. 42 (D2)).

  When the final display mode is determined to be the first special mode, as shown in FIG. 42 (E3), the second hold display (see FIG. 42) of the total hold storage display unit 18c at the timing of the shift. (B3) is equivalent to the hold display newly displayed) The effect that the white arrow is stabbed (the suggestion effect (success pattern) of the second effect mode) is performed, and the hold display that is stabbed by the white arrow is the first special mode (In this example, “x” is included in “◯”) and displayed. When the final display mode is determined to be the second special mode, as shown in FIG. 42 (E4), the second hold display (FIG. 42) of the total hold storage display unit 18c is performed at the shift timing. (B3) is equivalent to the hold display newly displayed) The effect that the white arrow is stabbed (the suggestion effect (success pattern) of the second effect mode) is performed, and the hold display that is stabbed by the white arrow is the second special mode (In this example, two “x” are included in “◯”) and displayed.

  As described above, in this embodiment, when the presentation mode of the suggestion presentation (success pattern) is the second presentation mode, the display mode of the hold display is the first compared to the first presentation mode. It is configured such that the ratio of the second special mode having a higher degree of expectation of being a big hit than the one special mode is high. Therefore, when the suggestion effect (success pattern) is the first effect mode, that is, when a black arrow is blown and stuck in the hold display, the rate at which the hold display changes to the first special mode with low expectation. high. That is, the rate of transition from FIG. 42 (D1) to FIG. 42 (E1) is high. On the other hand, when the suggestion effect (success pattern) is in the second effect mode, that is, when a white arrow is blown and stuck in the hold display, the ratio at which the hold display changes to the second special mode with high expectation is obtained. high. That is, the ratio of shifting from FIG. 42 (D2) to FIG. 42 (E4) is high. By being configured in this way, even if the suggestion effect (success pattern) that the arrow is flying and stuck in the hold display is made to feel that it is desired to be performed in the second effect mode, the suggestion effect is the first effect mode. When this is done, that is, when a black arrow flies, it is possible to feel that it is desired to pass without being stuck in the hold display (I want it to be a suggestion effect (passing pattern)).

  43 and 44 are explanatory diagrams illustrating specific examples of the prefetching effect based on the second prefetching effect pattern. As shown in FIG. 43 (A), in the effect display device 9, the effect symbols are being displayed in a variable manner, and the two on-hold displays are in the normal mode (“◯” in this example) on the combined hold storage display unit 18 c. When a start winning is performed while being displayed, a prefetch effect (prefetch effect pattern, final display mode, change timing) and a suggestive mode are determined, and a new hold display is displayed according to the determination result. In the example shown in FIGS. 43 and 44, the prefetch effect pattern is determined as the second prefetch effect pattern, the final display mode is determined as the first special mode or the second special mode, and the change timing is 1 shift count or 2 shift counts. And decide. In addition, the suggestion effect mode is determined as the first effect mode or the second effect mode.

  In this embodiment, in the pre-reading effect based on the second pre-reading effect pattern, the hold display corresponding to the variable display (holding information) to be notified is displayed in a special manner at the start winning timing, and at any shift timing The final display mode is changed to the first special mode or the second special mode. Therefore, when the prefetch effect pattern is determined to be the second prefetch effect pattern, as shown in FIG. 43 (B), the third hold display is displayed on the total hold storage display unit 18c in a special mode (see FIG. 43B). In this example, six lines are drawn outside “◯”).

  Then, the variation display of the effect symbol is stopped (FIG. 43C), and when the variation display based on the hold information corresponding to the first hold display is started, the first hold display is erased. The first and third hold displays are shifted respectively. At this time, if the effect mode of the suggestion effect is determined to be the second effect mode, a white arrow will fly from the right side of the display area in the effect display device 9 as the suggestion effect suggesting that the hold display changes. (Second effect mode) Display control is performed (FIG. 43D).

  Here, when the change timing is determined to be the number of shifts 1 and the final display mode is determined to be the first special mode, as shown in FIG. 43 (E1), the total pending storage display unit at the shift timing. An effect (a suggestion effect (success pattern) of the second effect mode) in which a white arrow is inserted into the second hold display of 18c (corresponding to the hold display of the special mode newly displayed in FIG. 43 (B3)) is performed. At the same time, the hold display with a white arrow is changed from the special mode to the first special mode (in this example, “X” is included in “◯”) and displayed. Further, when the change timing is determined to be the number of shifts 1 and the final display mode is determined to be the second special mode, as shown in FIG. 43 (E2), the total pending storage display unit 18c at the shift timing. The second hold display (corresponding to the hold display of the special mode newly displayed in FIG. 43 (B3)) is struck with a white arrow (a suggestion effect (success pattern) of the second effect mode). The hold display with a white arrow is changed from the special mode to the second special mode (in this example, two “x” s are included in “◯”) and displayed.

  Further, when the change timing is determined to be the number of shifts 2, as shown in FIG. 43 (E3), a suggestion effect (second effect mode) in which a white arrow passes without sticking to any hold display at the shift timing. Suggestion production (passing pattern)). The suggestion effect shown in FIG. 43 (E3) is performed when it is determined in the effect symbol variation start process that the suggestion effect (passing pattern) is executed in the second effect mode. Thus, in this embodiment, as the suggestion effect, the effect display device 9 performs display control in which a black arrow (first effect mode) or a white arrow (second effect mode) flies from the right side of the display area. This suggests that the display mode of the hold display changes, and when the arrow is stuck in the hold display (when the suggestion effect (success pattern) is performed), the display mode changes, and the arrow is stabbed in any hold display. If it passes without a suggestion effect (passage pattern), the display mode does not change.

  Thereafter, the variation display of the effect symbol is stopped (FIG. 44 (F)), and when the variation display based on the hold information corresponding to the first hold display is started, the first hold display is erased. The first hold display is shifted. At this time, as the suggestion effect suggesting that the hold display changes, the effect display device 9 performs display control in which a black arrow flies from the right side of the display area (first effect mode) (FIG. 44G). ).

  When the change timing is determined to be the number of shifts 2 and the final display mode is determined to be the first special mode, as shown in FIG. 44 (H1), the total pending storage display unit 18c at the shift timing. The first hold display (corresponding to the hold display of the special mode newly displayed in FIG. 43 (B3)) is struck by a black arrow (the suggested effect (success pattern) of the first effect mode). The hold display with a black arrow is changed from the special mode to the first special mode (in this example, “x” is included in “◯”) and displayed. When the change timing is determined to be the number of shifts 2 and the final display mode is determined to be the second special mode, as shown in FIG. 44 (H2), the total pending storage display unit 18c at the shift timing. The first hold display (corresponding to the special display hold display newly displayed in FIG. 43 (B3)) is struck by a black arrow (a suggestion effect (success pattern) of the second effect mode). The hold display with a black arrow is changed from the special mode to the second special mode (in this example, two “x” s are included in “◯”) and displayed.

  As shown in FIG. 42, in this embodiment, in the prefetching effect based on the first prefetching effect pattern, the hold display corresponding to the change display (holding information) to be notified is not displayed once in a special mode. The final display mode is displayed in the first special mode or the second special mode. At this time, the timing displayed in the final display mode includes an arbitrary shift timing in addition to the start winning timing. As shown in FIGS. 43 and 44, in the pre-reading effect based on the second pre-reading effect pattern, the hold display corresponding to the change display (holding information) to be notified is displayed in a special manner at the timing of the start winning prize. The final display mode is displayed in the first special mode or the second special mode at an arbitrary shift timing. As described above, in this embodiment, since the hold display can be changed to the first special mode or the second special mode and displayed at a plurality of timings, there are various timings for changing the display mode of the hold display. When the hold display is displayed in the special mode, the hold display is changed from the special mode to the first special mode or the first special mode until the variable display based on the hold storage corresponding to the hold display is started. Since the display is changed into two special modes, it is possible to improve game entertainment.

  As described above, in this embodiment, the game control microcomputer 560 is determined by determining the display result and the variation pattern of the variation display at the start winning, which is realized by executing the effect processing at the time of winning. Means. Further, the production control microcomputer 100 implements a hold display (total hold storage display) corresponding to the hold storage based on the determination result by the determination means, which is realized by executing a prefetch effect determination process, an effect symbol variation start process, and the like. There is provided an effect execution means for executing a pre-reading effect to display the hold storage in the section 18c in the first special mode or the second special mode. The effect execution means can display the hold display by changing it to the first special mode or the second special mode at a plurality of timings (start winning prize timing, shift timing, etc.). Is displayed, the variable display is changed from the special mode to the first special mode or the second special mode until the variable display based on the hold memory corresponding to the hold display is started. Is configured to do. With such a configuration, it is possible to display the hold display by changing to the first special mode or the second special mode at a plurality of timings, and therefore there are various timings for changing the display mode of the hold display. When the hold display is displayed in a special mode, the hold display is changed from the special mode to the first special mode or the second special mode and displayed. it can.

  In this embodiment, the production control microcomputer 100 suggests whether or not the display mode of the hold display, which is realized by executing the pre-reading production determination process, the production symbol variation start process, or the like, is changed. Suggesting effect execution means for executing the suggestion effect (the suggestion effect (success pattern) and the suggestion effect (passing pattern)) is provided. The suggestion effect executing means is configured to execute the suggestion effect at a higher frequency when the hold display is displayed in the special mode than when the hold display is not displayed in the special mode. With such a configuration, when the on-hold display is displayed in a special manner, the suggestion effect is executed at a high frequency, so that a sense of expectation can be enhanced, and the game entertainment can be improved.

  Further, in this embodiment, the effect execution means corresponds to the holding storage that is the determination target at a higher rate when the determination result determines that the display result is a big hit than when it is determined that the big hit is not made. The hold display is displayed in the second special mode. Further, the effect execution means does not display the hold display in the special mode when performing the pre-read effect in the second prefetch effect pattern that is displayed by changing the hold display from the special mode to the first special mode or the second special mode. The hold display is configured to be displayed in the second special mode at a higher rate than when the prefetch effect is performed in the first prefetch effect pattern displayed in the first special mode or the second special mode. By being configured in this way, when the hold display is displayed in a special mode, the ratio displayed in the second special mode with a high degree of expectation to be a big hit is increased, so that the expectation can be enhanced, Amusement interest can be improved.

  Further, in this embodiment, when the execution condition is satisfied (for example, when it is determined that the pre-reading effect is executed with the second pre-reading effect pattern, and the change timing is determined as winning (the number of times of variation is 0)) The start display is displayed in a special manner at the start winning prize timing), and the first hold display is shifted after the start winning is received until the variable display based on the hold storage corresponding to the hold display is started. From the special mode to the first special mode or the second special mode from the special mode at a second timing different from the first timing (for example, the timing at which the second hold display is shifted after the winning award). It is possible to change and display. Then, the effect execution means performs the hold display from the special mode at the first timing or the second timing at different ratios when the determination means determines that the determination result is a big hit and when it is determined that the big hit is not a big hit. The first special mode or the second special mode is changed and displayed. With such a configuration, when the hold display is displayed in a special mode, it is possible to focus on the timing at which the display mode changes, and the game entertainment can be improved.

  Further, in this embodiment, the production control microcomputer 100 is realized by executing a process of setting a prefetching production restriction flag. When the hold display is displayed in a special mode, the hold display is newly specialized. It is comprised so that the limiting means which restrict | limits displaying in an aspect may be provided. With such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the player from being confused about which hold display should be noted when a plurality of hold displays are displayed in a special manner.

  Also, in this embodiment, the effect execution means stores the holding memory that has been subject to determination at a higher rate when the determination result determines that the display result is a big hit than when it is determined that the big hit does not occur. The corresponding hold display is displayed in the second special mode. In addition, when the effect execution means performs the prefetch effect with the first prefetch effect pattern displayed by changing the hold display from the special mode to the first special mode or the second special mode, the first effect (for example, a black arrow is displayed). When the suggestion effect (success pattern) of the first effect mode that flies and sticks to the hold display is performed, the hold display is changed from the special mode to the first special mode or the second special mode, and the first effect is displayed. Performs a different second effect (for example, a suggestion effect (success pattern) of the second effect mode in which a white arrow is flying and sticks to the hold display), and the hold display is changed from the special mode to the first special mode or the second special mode. There are times when it is displayed. The effect execution means is configured to change and display the hold display to the first special mode or the second special mode at different rates when the first effect is performed and when the second effect is performed. ing. By being configured as such, when the hold display is displayed in a special manner, it is possible to focus on which one of the first effect and the second effect is performed, and to improve the game entertainment it can.

  In this embodiment, in the first look-ahead effect pattern, the timing at which the hold display is displayed in the special mode is changed from the start winning timing and the normal mode to the first special mode or the second special mode. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and other timings may be included. For example, an arbitrary timing until the display of the subject change notice is started (specifically, one change display executed before the notice subject change display starts or a period spanning a plurality of change displays) ) May be displayed in a special manner.

  Further, in this embodiment, in the second look-ahead effect pattern, the timing at which the hold display is displayed in a special mode is only the start winning timing, but is not limited thereto, and the start winning timing is a normal mode. It may be displayed and changed to a special mode at an arbitrary shift timing, or may be displayed at any timing until the display of the change of the notice target starts (specifically, the change display of the notice target starts. The suspended display may be displayed in a special manner during one variable display or a period spanning a plurality of variable displays executed until the display is performed. In addition, in the second look-ahead effect pattern, the timing at which the hold display displayed in the special mode changes to the special mode is not limited to the shift timing, and after the hold display is displayed in the special mode, the fluctuating display of the notice target is displayed. It may be an arbitrary timing until it is started (specifically, one variable display being executed or a period spanning a plurality of change displays executed until the start of change display of the notice target).

  Further, in this embodiment, as a pre-reading effect production pattern, the hold display corresponding to the fluctuating display (hold information) to be notified is not displayed once in a special form, but the first special form of the final display form. Alternatively, the first look-ahead effect pattern displayed in the second special mode and the hold display corresponding to the fluctuating display (holding information) to be notified at the start winning timing are displayed in a special mode, and finally displayed at an arbitrary shift timing. The second prefetch effect pattern displayed in the first special mode or the second special mode of the mode may be included, but only the second prefetch effect pattern may be included. Even in this case, when the pre-reading effect is performed, the hold display corresponding to the fluctuating display (holding information) to be notified is temporarily displayed in a special mode, but there are multiple timings from the special mode to the special mode. Since it is changed at (arbitrary timing such as shift timing), it is possible to give diversity to the effect of changing the display mode of the hold display and improve the game entertainment.

  Further, in this embodiment, when the hold display is displayed in a special mode, the hold display is always displayed by changing from the special mode to the first special mode or the second special mode. You may make it not change as it is. In this case, the hold display is not changed from the special mode to the special mode, and when the variable display corresponding to the hold display (hold information) is started, the change is made from the special mode to the special mode. It is desirable to configure so that the ratio of winning big hits is low. By doing in this way, it can give more interest to the display mode of a hold display changing from a special mode to a special mode. In this case, the state in which the hold display is displayed in the special mode is configured so that the ratio of the display in the special mode is higher than the state in which the hold display is displayed in the normal state. It is desirable to do. By doing this, it is possible to give interest to the change in the display mode of the hold display from the normal mode to the special mode, and it is possible to increase the expectation when the display mode is displayed in the special mode. .

  In this embodiment, as the suggestion effect, predetermined display control is performed in the effect display device 9, but with this (or instead of this), an effect of outputting sound from the speaker, or lighting the lamp You may make it perform the production etc. to make. In this embodiment, the suggestion effect is an effect (an arrow pierces (or passes)) that affects the change of the hold display, and the hold display changes according to the effect result (holding when the arrow is pierced) The display does not necessarily have to be an effect that affects the change of the hold display. For example, regardless of whether the display mode of the hold display is changed or not changed, an effect in which an arrow pierces a specific hold display is performed as the suggestion effect. Then, when changing the hold display, the hold display pierced by the arrow by the suggestion effect may be changed, and when not changing, the hold display pierced by the arrow by the suggestion effect may not be changed. That is, when the hold display changes and when it does not change, the mode of the suggestive effect (the flying arrow sticks into the specific hold display) is the same, but the result (the display mode of the hold display with the arrow stuck) It is also possible to perform a hold change effect such that whether or not it changes).

  In the above-described embodiment, “the ratios are different” is not limited to those having different ratios such as A: B = 70%: 30% or A: B = 40%: 60%, This is a concept including a ratio that is different in a relationship of A: B = 100%: 0% (that is, one with 100% allocation and the other with 0% allocation).

  In the above-described embodiment, the game control microcomputer 560 directly transmits a command to the effect control microcomputer 100. However, the game control microcomputer 560 transmits another command (for example, FIG. 3). The sound output board 70 and the lamp driver board 35 shown in FIG. 5 or the sound / lamp board having the function of the circuit mounted on the sound output board 70 and the function of the circuit mounted on the lamp driver board 35). A control command may be transmitted and transmitted to the effect control microcomputer 100 on the effect control board 80 via another board. In that case, the command may simply pass through another board, or the sound output board 70, the lamp driver board 35, and the sound / lamp board are equipped with control means such as a microcomputer, and the control means receives the command. In response to this, control related to sound control and lamp control is executed, and the received command is changed as it is or, for example, to a simplified command to control the effect display device 9. You may make it transmit to. Even in that case, the effect control microcomputer 100 performs the display control in accordance with the effect control command directly received from the game control microcomputer 560 in the above-described embodiment. Display control can be performed in accordance with commands received from the board 35 or the sound / lamp board.

  In the above-described embodiment, in order to notify the microcomputer 100 for effect control of the change pattern indicating the change mode such as the change time, the type of reach effect, and the presence / absence of the pseudo-ream, 1 is used when the change starts. Although an example in which one variation pattern command is transmitted has been shown, the variation pattern may be notified to the effect control microcomputer 100 by two or more commands. Specifically, in the case of notification by two commands, the game control microcomputer 560 uses the first command to indicate whether there is a pseudo-ream, a slide effect, etc. before reaching (so-called if not reach). A command indicating the variation time and variation mode before the second stop) is transmitted, and the second command has reached the reach such as the type of reach and presence / absence of re-lottery effect (if the reach does not reach, the so-called first You may make it transmit the command which shows the fluctuation | variation time and fluctuation | variation aspect (after 2 stop). In this case, the effect control microcomputer may perform effect control in variable display based on the variable time derived from the combination of two commands. The game control microcomputer 560 notifies the change time by each of the two commands, and the effect control microcomputer 100 selects the specific change mode executed at each timing. May be. When sending two commands, two commands may be sent within the same timer interrupt. After sending the first command, a certain period of time has passed (for example, the next timer interrupt). The second command may be transmitted. Note that the variation mode indicated by each command is not limited to this example, and the order of transmission can be changed as appropriate. In this way, by notifying the variation pattern by two or more commands, the amount of data that must be stored as the variation pattern command can be reduced.

[Display for variable display]
In the above embodiment, the display area of the effect display device 9 may be provided with a variable display corresponding display area for displaying a hold display corresponding to the variable display being executed as a variable display compatible display.

  As will be described below, in the effect display device 9, an effect (hereinafter referred to as a hold display) that changes the display mode of the hold display as a notice effect (for example, a jackpot notice effect) according to the determination result at the time of starting winning a prize. A process of executing an effect in a common manner, when executing an effect that changes the display mode of the variable display corresponding display (hereinafter referred to as a corresponding display change effect). You may do it. Here, the hold display change effect and the corresponding display change effect may all have a common effect aspect, or may have a part of the effect aspect.

  In the following, an example in which all of the effect modes are common in the hold display change effect and the corresponding display change effect will be described. Specifically, the action effect is executed using a specific character image with the on-hold display or the variable display corresponding display as the effect target (action target, notice target). In that case, in the hold display change effect and the corresponding display change effect, the action effect can be executed in a common effect mode using a common character image as a specific character image.

  The action effect is a display effect in which a common specific character image acts on a predetermined image such as a hold display or a variable display compatible display to change the display mode of the image. In the action effect, “act” means to display a specific image such as a character image so as to overlap a predetermined image such as a hold display or a variable display compatible display, and the specific in the vicinity of the predetermined image. What is necessary is to display a specific image so that it can be recognized that the predetermined image changes, such as displaying a specific image, displaying the specific image far away from the predetermined image, etc. It may be a thing.

  In addition to a display in which a specific image such as a character image touches and acts on the predetermined image, for example, a beam ray output from the specific image itself such as a character image The specific image itself, such as an image (an image to be acted on, an image to be changed), which does not directly act on the specific image itself, but an image related to the specific image acts on the predetermined image Any action effect may be used as long as it is recognizable to act on the predetermined image.

  The hold display change effect and the corresponding display change effect including the action effect using the common character image as described below display the hold display or the variable display support display in the effect control process as described above in a changeable manner. What is necessary is just to be executable in processing (for example, effect symbol variation start processing, effect symbol variation in-process).

  The hold display change effect including the effect using the common character image and the corresponding display change effect are the hold display corresponding to the hold memory determined to be a big hit based on the determination result at the time of starting winning (or the The variable display corresponding display) is executed at a higher rate than the hold display (or variable display support display) corresponding to the hold storage determined to be out of sync based on the determination result at the time of starting winning. Is set to Thereby, when the hold display change effect and the corresponding display change effect including the action effect using the common character image are executed, it is possible to increase the player's sense of expectation for the big hit.

  Further, as the hold display change effect and the corresponding display change effect including the action effect using the common character image, the hold display change effect and the corresponding display including the first action effect with the hold display as the change target display (action target display). A plurality of types of effects such as a change display and a hold display change effect and a corresponding display change effect including a second effect that uses the variable display corresponding display as a change target display (action target display) are set at a predetermined ratio. It only needs to be executable.

  The first action effect is specific to the hold display with the hold display indicating the hold storage of the unexecuted variable display displayed on the first hold memory display unit and the second hold memory display unit as a change target display. This is an effect that the character image acts on. Therefore, the first action effect is the timing before the variable display based on the hold display as the change target display becomes the execution order (for example, when the variable display based on the hold display before the hold display is executed) For example, when the display position of the display shifts).

  The second effect effect is an effect effect in which a specific character image acts on the change target display with the variable display corresponding display corresponding to the variable display being executed displayed in the variable display corresponding display area as the change target display. It is. Therefore, the second action effect is the timing during the variable display after the variable display based on the hold display is changed to the display corresponding to the variable display due to the execution order (for example, pseudo continuous display). For example, the timing when the re-variation starts.

  Further, the display mode of the hold display and the display mode of the variable display corresponding display may be changed to the same specific mode. Further, the display mode of the hold display and the display mode of the variable display corresponding display may be changed to different specific modes. For example, if the expected value that results in a big hit on the variable display based on the hold display is high, the hold display is changed to red, while the expected value that results in the variable display based on the variable display compatible display is high May be changed to yellow. Also, if the expected value that results in a big hit on the variable display based on the hold display is high, the hold display is changed to red, and the expected value that results in the big display on the variable display based on the variable display compatible display is high. Alternatively, it may be changed to red.

[About control program]
Next, a game control (game progress control) program (hereinafter referred to as “control program”) stored in the ROM 54 will be described. The control program includes a main routine, a subroutine, and an interrupt routine. In the present embodiment, the process based on the main routine is the main process shown in FIG. The process based on the subroutine is, for example, the start port switch passing process of S312 shown in FIG. The process based on the interrupt routine is, for example, the timer interrupt process shown in FIG. Also, performing the processing based on the interrupt routine is also referred to as “interrupt occurs”.

  In this embodiment, a register is used. For example, the register stores data accessed by means for executing arithmetic processing (for example, the game control microcomputer 560). For example, the register is provided on the main board 31, but a part of the RAM 104 may be used as the register. Further, when the game control microcomputer 560 accesses the data stored in the ROM 54 or the RAM 55, the data may be accessed via a register or directly.

  In this embodiment, a flag register is used. The flag register register is a register in which information such as the CPU 56 that can specify an operation state is stored. Hereinafter, this information is referred to as “flag register value”. In the present embodiment, the CPU 56 includes a flag register, but other means may be included. Further, the information such as the CPU 56 that can specify the calculation state is not limited to the value of the flag register, and may be another value.

  In the present embodiment, a stack area is used. The stack area stores data necessary to return to the original process when calling another process (for example, a subroutine) from the process being executed or when interrupting the process being executed and executing the interrupt routine. This area is temporarily stored (saved). When returning to the original process, the stored data is returned to the CPU 56 or the like. In the present embodiment, a part or all of the area of the RAM 55 of the present embodiment functions as a stack area. The area for storing the data is not limited to the stack area, but may be another area.

  In addition, a partial area of the RAM 55 of this embodiment functions as a stack pointer. Further, the CPU 56 may be provided with a stack pointer without causing a part of the RAM 55 to function as a stack pointer.

  Immediately after the gaming machine 1 is powered on, no data is stored in the stack area. In this case, the stack pointer indicates the final area of the stack area as the stack pointer initial value. When a subroutine or interrupt routine is executed during execution of a predetermined routine, saved data, a return address of the predetermined routine, and the like are stored. Hereinafter, the predetermined routine may be referred to as “calling routine”. The subroutine is called by the CALL instruction of the caller routine. Further, the arithmetic processing is returned to the calling source routine by the RET instruction of the subroutine. The save data is, for example, data to be calculated in a predetermined routine. By storing the saved data in the stack area, it is possible to prevent the saved data from being rewritten with different data by executing a subroutine or an interrupt routine.

  In the present embodiment, the data stored in the stack area differs between when an interrupt occurs and when a subroutine is called. First, data stored in the stack area when a subroutine call is made will be described. In this case, when the CALL instruction is executed, the return address of the call source routine is stored in the stack area. At this time, the address immediately above the area where the address is stored last is indicated by the stack pointer.

  Here, the subroutine is divided into a first subroutine that uses the value of the flag register and a second subroutine that does not use the value of the flag register. The first subroutine is a subroutine that executes arithmetic processing using the value of a flag register (hereinafter referred to as “calling flag register”) used in the calling source routine. On the other hand, the second subroutine is a subroutine that executes arithmetic processing without using the value of the flag register used in the calling source routine. Further, the value of the call source flag register and the value of the flag register used in the first subroutine are correlated (or strongly correlated), and the value of the call source flag register and the value of the flag register used in the second subroutine It can be said that there is no correlation (or a weak correlation). In the present embodiment, the start-port switch passing process in S312 shown in FIG. 13 corresponds to the first subroutine.

  When the first subroutine is called by the CALL instruction, since the value of the call source flag register is used in the first subroutine, the CPU 56 does not store the value of the call source flag register in the stack area. On the other hand, when the second subroutine is called by the CALL instruction, since the value of the call source flag register is not used in the second subroutine, the CPU 56 stores the value of the call source flag register in the stack area. If the value of the caller flag register is not stored in the stack area when the second subroutine is executed, the value of the caller flag register may be changed unintentionally in the processing of the second subroutine There is. In this case, after returning to the call source routine, the call source routine performs processing using the changed value of the call source flag register, so that the processing result of the call source routine is not expected. It will be a thing. Therefore, when the second subroutine is executed, the value of the caller flag register is stored in the stack area by the PUSH instruction. As a result, the value of the caller flag register can be prevented from being changed unintentionally by executing the second subroutine. When the POP instruction is executed in the processing of the second subroutine, the value of the flag register stored in the stack area is returned to the flag register, and the saved data stored in the stack area is restored to the original location. Returned to In the first subroutine, since the value of the flag register is not stored in the stack area, there is no PUSH instruction or POP instruction.

  When the RET instruction is executed at the end of the first subroutine or the second subroutine, the return address is returned to the CPU 56, and the value of the stack pointer is also returned to the value before execution of the CALL instruction. You can return to processing.

  Next, data stored in the stack area when the interrupt routine is executed will be described. Since the interrupt routine is executed by interrupting the processing being executed in the call source routine at an arbitrary timing, the value of the flag register (call source flag register) used in the called subroutine and the call source routine are used. There is no correlation with the value of the flag register. Therefore, the call source flag register is not used in the interrupt routine. Therefore, the CPU 56 stores the value of the caller flag register in the stack area when executing the interrupt routine.

  If the value of the caller flag register is not stored in the stack area when executing the interrupt routine, the interrupt routine is unintentionally changed in the interrupt processing subroutine. Then, after returning to the call source routine, the call source routine executes processing using the changed value of the call source flag register, so that the processing result of the call source routine becomes unexpected. . Therefore, when the interrupt routine is executed, the value of the flag register is stored in the stack area. As a result, the value of the flag register can be prevented from being changed unintentionally by executing the interrupt subroutine. The storage of the return address at the time of execution of the interrupt routine is the same as that of the subroutine, and thus description thereof is omitted. When the RETI or RETN instruction is executed at the end of the interrupt routine, the return address stored in the stack area is returned to the CPU 56, and the value of the flag register stored in the stack area is also returned to the flag register. . Furthermore, the value of the stack pointer is also restored to the value before the interrupt occurred. As a result, the process can be returned to the calling routine.

  Next, the stack pointer will be described. In the second subroutine, the data (for example, the value of the flag register) stored in the stack area is extracted before the RET instruction and stored in the register specified by the instruction, and the data is finally extracted as the value of the stack pointer. It indicates the address of the specified area. As described above, in the present embodiment, an address one address higher than the address at which data was last stored in the stack area (in other words, the address of the data extracted last) is indicated by the stack pointer. That is, the current stack pointer indicates the address of data stored in the next stack area.

  Next, an example of a program constituting the first subroutine and the second subroutine will be described. In the second subroutine that needs to save the caller flag register, a PUSH instruction that stores the caller flag register in the stack area and a POP instruction that returns the stored caller flag register from the stack area are described. On the other hand, since it is not necessary to save the flag register in the first subroutine using the flag register, such a PUSH instruction and a POP instruction are not described. In the first subroutine, a load instruction is described instead of the PUSH instruction and the POP instruction. The load instruction is operated by a series of programs described in the first subroutine, the operation result is reflected in the flag register, and the reflected flag register is loaded into the flag register. Thereafter, the RET instruction is executed to return to the caller routine. In the call source routine, processing is executed using the reflected flag register.

  By configuring the first subroutine in such a program configuration, a predetermined calculation is executed in the first subroutine, the calculation result is reflected in the value of the flag register, stored in the flag register, and the stored flag The register value can be used in the calling routine. In addition, since it is not necessary to describe “PUSH” and “POP” instructions for putting the value of the flag register in and out of the stack area in the program of the first subroutine, the amount of code can be reduced.

  Such a configuration of the first subroutine and the second subroutine is suitable for executing a common process in various places of the game control program, and arranging the common process block as a subroutine in the program in advance. This can be realized by executing a CALL instruction (or RST instruction) in a program that is a call source.

  However, from the standpoint of the producer of the program, there may be a case where the flag register used in the second subroutine and the flag register used in the call source routine may be treated as the same as in the first subroutine. In some cases, like the subroutine, the flag register used in the first subroutine and the flag register used in the call source routine may be handled separately.

  Therefore, it is necessary to select whether to save the value of the flag register according to the type of subroutine (first subroutine or second subroutine). Therefore, it can be configured to select whether or not the flag register is put into and out of the stack area depending on whether or not the “PUSH” and “POP” instructions are described in the program constituting the subroutine.

  Next, the interrupt subroutine program will be described. When the interrupt subroutine is called, it is necessary to save the value of the flag register in the stack area. That is, since the code of the PUSH instruction and the POP instruction is not necessary for the interrupt subroutine program, the code amount of the program describing the interrupt subroutine can be reduced. Further, by executing “RETI” at the end of the subroutine of the interrupt process, the process returns to the caller process.

  Further, when executing the second subroutine or the interrupt routine, the CPU 56 stores the value of the caller flag register in the stack area even if the PUSH instruction and the POP instruction are not described in these routines. Also good. As a specific example of the technique, subroutine identification information is added to each of the first subroutine and the second subroutine, and the subroutine that the CPU 56 calls by referring to the identification information is either the first subroutine or the second subroutine. Is determined. When the CPU 56 determines that it is the first subroutine, it executes processing in accordance with the instruction described in the first subroutine. If the CPU 56 determines that it is the second subroutine, it stores the value of the caller flag register in the stack area, and then executes the process according to the instruction described in the second subroutine. Further, when an interrupt signal is generated, it is preferable that the value of the caller flag register is stored in the stack area and then the process is executed in accordance with the instruction described in the interrupt routine.

  By causing the CPU 56 to execute such processing, it is possible to execute appropriate processing according to the first subroutine, the second subroutine, and the interrupt routine. In the second subroutine and the interrupt subroutine, a PUSH instruction and a POP instruction are described. Since there is no need to do this, the amount of code can be reduced.

  Further, the PUSH instruction and the POP instruction may be described in the program of the second subroutine. As a result, the value of the caller flag register can be surely saved or returned.

  In the present embodiment, the interrupt routine has been described as a routine that does not use the caller flag register. However, in some interrupt routines, there is a routine that uses the caller flag register. That is, the interrupt routine that does not use the caller flag register and the first subroutine are collectively expressed as “a routine that uses information such as the CPU 56 that can specify the operation state”, and the interrupt routine that uses the caller flag register. The second subroutine may be collectively expressed as “a routine that does not use information such as the CPU 56 that can specify the calculation state”.

  Moreover, although the subroutine in this Embodiment was demonstrated as a routine called by special symbol process processing, it is good also as a routine called by a main routine.

  Further, in the present embodiment, “information that can specify the operation state such as the CPU 56” has been described as the value of the flag register, but other values may be used. Further, instead of “information that can specify the calculation state of the CPU 56 and the like”, it may be “information that can specify the calculation result of the CPU 56 and the like”. In the present embodiment, the subroutine is described as including the first subroutine and the second subroutine. However, the subroutine may be only the first subroutine.

[Processing at game machine startup]
Next, processing when the gaming machine is activated will be described. When the gaming machine is activated, that is, when a reset signal that has become high level is input, the CPU 56 executes a predetermined initial setting process by the main routine (see FIG. 4). In this embodiment, the initial setting program used in the initial setting process is stored at a specific address in the ROM 54. Here, in the present embodiment, when the gaming machine is activated, the CPU 56 sets a unique address value (initial address value) in the stack pointer before the initial setting process is executed. With such a configuration, even if an interrupt occurs due to noise or the like immediately after the gaming machine is activated, the caller routine (main routine here) returns to the stack area indicated by the initial address value. Addresses and other saved data can be securely stored. Therefore, even if the processing of the interrupt routine is completed, the return address and other saved data stored in the stack area can be acquired without fail, so the processing of the call source routine should be executed appropriately. Can do.

  If the initial address value is not set in the stack pointer immediately after the gaming machine is activated, the initial value of the stack pointer becomes indefinite. Then, when an interrupt occurs, there is a possibility that the CPU executes the interrupt routine while regarding the area indicated by an indefinite value as a stack area. As a result, even if the execution of the interrupt processing routine is completed, there is no guarantee that the return address value is stored in the area pointed to by the stack pointer, and the CPU may run away. As a result, there may be a problem that a regular game cannot be performed due to an unexpected big hit or the like.

  Therefore, when the gaming machine is activated, the return address is securely stored in the stack area indicated by the initial address by setting a unique address (initial address) in the stack pointer before the initial setting process is executed. Therefore, it is possible to prevent such a problem from occurring.

  Further, the following configuration is more preferable. For example, a specific instruction of a program to be executed when the CPU 56 or the like runs away is stored in advance in a specific address of the ROM 54 (for example, a reset address of the game control program). Here, the specific instruction is an instruction for performing a reset process on the CPU 56 or the like, or an instruction for executing a different process (for example, an initial setting process) when the CPU 56 runs away.

  In the present embodiment, when the gaming machine is activated, the CPU 56 sets the specific address before the initial setting process is executed. Thereby, even if an erroneous instruction is executed by mistake due to noise or the like occurring immediately after the start of the initial setting process, the specific instruction stored at the specific address can be executed. Therefore, even if noise or the like occurs immediately after the start of the initial setting process, the CPU 56 can be prevented from running away.

  Further, in the embodiment of the present invention, a branch process corresponding to the control state (each game state corresponding to the game process number) of the special symbol variation display game or the normal symbol variation display game using a method of setting a specific address. May be performed. According to such a configuration, an efficient game control program can be configured so that a specific command corresponding to the switched control state can be executed each time the control state is sequentially switched.

  Further, even when an abnormality occurs during game control and the CPU 56 is reset, the processing of the CPU 56 may be returned to the reset address. In this case, even if the initial address value is not set in the stack pointer by the CPU 56, the initial value is set in the stack pointer by software immediately after the instruction from the reset address is executed. It is possible to set an initial value for.

  Further, in the present embodiment, it has been described that a unique address value (initial address value) is set in the stack pointer before the initial setting process as the main routine is executed. A unique address value (initial address value) may be set in the stack pointer before at least one of them is executed. According to such a configuration, even when an interrupt occurs due to noise or the like immediately after at least one of the subroutine and the interrupt routine is executed, the return address and other save data are reliably saved or returned. be able to.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the first subroutine is described as the start-port switch passing process in S312 of FIG. 13, and the second subroutine is described as an interrupt routine. However, the combination of the first subroutine and the second subroutine is not limited to this, and other combinations may be used. For example, the first subroutine may be a subroutine for other processing (for example, S300 to S310 in FIG. 13), and the second subroutine may be an interrupt routine. In addition, the first subroutine and the second subroutine may be subroutines for other processes (for example, S300 to S310 in FIG. 13).

  Further, in the present embodiment, it has been described that the return address and the flag register are stored in the stack area when an interrupt occurs. However, when a specific interrupt occurs, the return address and flag register may be stored in the stack pointer. Here, the specific interrupt is an interrupt that occurs frequently (or necessarily), for example, an interrupt by NMI (Non Maskable Interrupt). In this way, when a specific interrupt occurs, the return address and flag register are stored in the stack pointer, so that when the interrupt routine processing by the specific interrupt is completed, it is reliably stored in the stack pointer. Since the return address and other saved data of the call source routine that has been stored can be acquired, the call source routine can be appropriately executed.

  In this embodiment, a gaming machine that pays out game media to the player's hand in response to the occurrence of a win has been described. However, the game medium is enclosed, and the game media is paid to the player's hand in response to the occurrence of a win. You may employ | adopt the enclosed game machine which adds a game point (score), without taking out. The enclosed game machine has a circulation path for circulating a plurality of balls, which are examples of game media, in the game machine, and is provided with a storage unit for storing game points. The game points are added to the storage unit, the game points are subtracted from the storage unit in response to the ball launching operation, and the game points are added to the storage unit in response to the occurrence of a prize. In addition, the gaming machine has a configuration in which a game board that forms a game area into which a game ball is driven is attached to a game frame provided with a launching device and a ball payout device. The basic functions may be shared, and only the game board having the characteristic structure of the game may be distributed. In this case, the game board having the characteristic structure of the game is referred to as a game machine.

  Such a sealed game machine may be provided with a function of counting game points and transmitting the counting result to a card unit as an example of a recording medium processing device (game device). In this case, it is desirable to provide counting operation means (counting button) for instructing counting of game points in the enclosed game machine. For example, the counting result of the game points is converted into “score points” and directly recorded on a “recording medium carried by the player” such as a card or terminal inserted (accepted) in the card unit. . Alternatively, the score management server connected to the card unit manages the card ID recorded on the recording medium, and transmits the counting result from the card unit to the score management server. You may make it memorize | store a player's score.

  It should be understood that the embodiment disclosed this time is illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is defined by the terms of the claims, rather than the description above, and is intended to include any modifications within the scope and meaning equivalent to the terms of the claims.

  The present invention can be applied to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine, and is particularly suitable for a gaming machine having a plurality of variable display means, in which variable display is not executed simultaneously on these variable display means. Applied.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Pachinko machine, 8a 1st special symbol display device, 8b 2nd special symbol display device 9 Production display device, 13 1st starting winning port, 14 2nd starting winning port, 20 Special variable winning ball device, 31 Game control board (Main board), 56 CPU, 560 Game control microcomputer, 80 stage control board, 100 stage control microcomputer, 101 stage control CPU, 109 VDP.

Claims (1)

A gaming machine that performs variable display and can be controlled to an advantageous state advantageous to the player,
And hold storage means capable of storing a pending store information about the variable display,
A hold display means for displaying the hold storage stored in the hold storage means as a hold display;
Determining means for determining whether to control to the advantageous state;
Determination means for determining whether to be controlled to the advantageous state before determination by the determination means,
The display mode of the hold display includes a normal mode, a special mode that is different from the normal mode, and a first special mode and a second special mode that are different from the normal mode and the special mode. ,
Depending on the determination result of the determination means, a hold notice effect for displaying the hold display corresponding to the hold memory that is the determination target of the determination means in the first special mode or the second special mode at a different rate. Executable execution means,
Storage means for storing a game control program;
Further comprising arithmetic processing means for executing arithmetic processing based on the game control program,
The production execution means can display the hold display by changing to the first special mode or the second special mode at a plurality of timings,
Suggesting effect execution means for executing an suggestion effect that suggests that the display mode of the hold display changes,
The game control program includes a main routine, a subroutine, and an interrupt routine that is called when a predetermined interrupt condition is satisfied during execution of the main routine,
The arithmetic processing means includes:
When the interrupt routine is called, the execution of the interrupt routine is started in a state where specific information that can specify the operation state by the operation processing unit is stored in a predetermined area,
When the subroutine is called, the execution of the subroutine is started without storing the specific information in the predetermined area.
The suggestion effect execution means executes the suggestion effect at a higher frequency when the hold display is displayed in the special mode than when the hold display is not displayed in the special mode ,
There are multiple aspects of the suggestion effect,
A gaming machine in which the ratio of the display mode of the hold display is the first special mode or the second special mode is different depending on the mode of the suggestion effect .

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