JP6280447B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, gaming machines that perform a predetermined game using game media are known. For example, variable display means for variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information (for example, special symbols and decorative symbols) that can identify each of them and deriving a display result is provided, and a specific display predetermined as a display result of identification information There is known a gaming machine that controls to a specific gaming state (for example, a big hit gaming state) advantageous for a player when a result (for example, a big hit symbol, a big winning combination decoration symbol, etc.) is derived.

  As a gaming machine, a plurality of variable winning means such as first and second variable winning devices are opened and closed based on establishment of a predetermined opening condition (for example, start of a predetermined round in a big hit gaming state). There is something to do. Among such gaming machines, in order to prevent fraud, there is one in which security is improved by executing a process for determining whether or not each of the plurality of variable winning means is an illegal prize (for example, Patent Document 1).

JP 2012-161441 A

  In the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, since the determination process is executed for each of the plurality of variable winning devices, a large amount of processing is required to increase security.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine with improved security with a small amount of processing.

(1) In order to achieve the above object, a gaming machine according to the present invention is a gaming machine (for example, pachinko gaming machine 1) that performs a predetermined game using a gaming medium,
First variable winning means (for example, the lower special variable winning ball device 7B) that can be changed between an open state in which game media are easy to win and a closed state in which game media cannot be won or difficult, and the game media wins. A plurality of variable winning means including a second variable winning means (for example, the upper special variable winning ball apparatus 7A, etc.) that can be changed between an easy open state and a closed state in which it is impossible or difficult to win a game medium;
Based on the establishment of a first opening condition for opening the first variable winning means (for example, start of a probability variable opening round for opening the lower large winning opening), the first variable winning means is controlled to be in an open state. The second variable winning means is controlled to be in an open state based on the establishment of a second opening condition for opening the second variable winning means (for example, the start of a normal opening round for opening the upper prize opening). An opening control means for executing the opening control (for example, the CPU 103 executing step S317 in FIG. 17A);
When the opening control is being executed, the variable winning means controlled to the open state is controlled to the valid state, and the other invalid winning means is controlled to the invalid state (for example, step of FIG. 12). CPU 103 that sets only the bit corresponding to the big prize opening opened in S301A to the ON state),
First detection means (for example, a lower large prize opening switch 23B) for detecting a game medium won in the first variable winning means;
Second detection means for detecting a game medium won in the second variable winning means (for example, the upper prize winning port switch 23A);
First winning / non-winning information (for example, data of S0 in the switch-on buffer) set to a value indicating detection when the first detecting means detects a winning game medium, and the second detecting means Winning presence / absence information (for example, switch-on buffer data, for example) including second winning / non-winning information (for example, data of S1 of the switch-on buffer) set to a value indicating detection when a winning game medium is detected. Etc.) (for example, a storage area of a switch-on buffer provided in the RAM 102),
First valid / invalid information (for example, data of B0 in the abnormal winning confirmation table) set to a value indicating whether the first variable winning means is valid or invalid, and the second variable winning means Variable winning valid / invalid information (for example, abnormal winning confirmation, for example) including second valid / invalid information (for example, B1 data of the abnormal winning confirmation table) set to a value indicating whether the state is valid or invalid. A valid / invalid storage means (for example, a storage area of an abnormal winning confirmation table provided in the RAM 102),
When the first detection means or the second detection means detects a game medium, a predetermined calculation is executed with the winning / non-winning information and the variable winning validity / invalidity information, and the calculation result becomes a specific calculation result. In the case where the winning is determined to be valid, the winning valid / invalid determining means for determining that the winning is invalid if the calculation result is different from the specific calculation result (for example, step of winning notification processing in FIG. 23A) CPU 103 that executes S54 to S59),
With
The variable prize valid / invalid information is a bit string (see FIG. 16) in which bits are assigned to the first valid / invalid information and the second valid / invalid information.
The bit of the variable prize valid / invalid information assigned to the first valid / invalid information and the second valid / invalid information is used as a value indicating the invalid state when the corresponding variable winning means is controlled to the invalid state. further comprising Rukoto while set to 1, the effective invalidation information setting means for setting to zero as the value indicating the valid state when being controlled in a valid state (for example, CPU103 executing step S300B of FIG. 12) of It is characterized by.

According to such a configuration, it is determined whether a winning is valid or invalid for a plurality of variable winning means by a predetermined process, so that security can be increased with a small amount of processing. In addition, security can be improved with a minimum storage capacity and calculation amount.

( 2 ) In the gaming machine of (1) above,
The winning / non-winning information is a bit string (see FIG. 6B) in which bits are assigned to the first winning / non-winning information and the second winning / non-winning information.
1 as a value indicating that the bit of the winning / notifying information assigned to the first winning / notifying information and the second winning / notifying information is detected when the corresponding detecting means detects the winning game medium. On the other hand, if it is not detected, the winning presence / absence information setting means is set to 0 as a value indicating that it has not been detected (for example, depending on the state of the lower or upper large winning opening switch, as shown in FIG. A CPU 103 that updates the switch-on buffer in step S11).
It is good.

  According to such a configuration, security can be improved with a minimum storage capacity and calculation amount.

( 3 ) In the gaming machine of (1) above,
The valid / invalid information is a bit string in which bits are assigned to the first valid / invalid information and the second valid / invalid information (see FIG. 16),
The winning information is a bit string in which bits are assigned to the first winning information and the second winning information (see FIG. 6B).
The bit of the valid / invalid information allocated to the first valid / invalid information and the second valid / invalid information is 1 as a value indicating an invalid state when the corresponding variable winning means is controlled to the invalid state. On the other hand, when being controlled to the valid state, valid / invalid information setting means (for example, the CPU 103 that executes step S300B in FIG. 12) that sets to 0 as a value indicating the valid state;
1 as a value indicating that the bit of the winning / notifying information assigned to the first winning / notifying information and the second winning / notifying information is detected when the corresponding detecting means detects the winning game medium. On the other hand, if it is not detected, the winning presence / absence information setting means is set to 0 as a value indicating that it has not been detected (for example, in FIG. CPU 103 that updates the switch-on buffer in step S11)
The bit position assigned to the first valid / invalid information in the valid / invalid information (bit address 0 of the abnormal winning confirmation table) and the bit assigned to the first prize presence / absence information in the prize presence / absence information (Bit address 0 of the switch-on buffer) is common, and the position of the bit assigned to the second valid / invalid information in the valid / invalid information (bit address 1 in the abnormal prize confirmation table) and the prize In the presence / absence information, the bit position (bit address 1 of the switch-on buffer) assigned to the second prize presence / absence information may be common (see FIG. 24).

  According to such a configuration, security can be improved without the need for complicated calculations.

( 4 ) In any of the above gaming machines (1) to ( 3 ),
Game control means (for example, a game control micro comprising a CPU 103) including the winning validity / invalidity determining means for controlling the progress of the game and collectively calculating data having a specific bit length (for example, 8-bit data). A computer 100),
The valid / invalid information is a bit string less than a specific length in which bits are assigned to each of the plurality of variable winning means (for example, a portion of B0 to B1 in B0 to B7 of FIG. 16),
The winning / non-winning information is a bit string less than the specific length in which bits are assigned to each of the plurality of detecting means (for example, a portion of S0 to S1 in S0 to S7 in FIG. 6B),
The winning validity / invalidity determining means collectively calculates the specific length data including the valid / invalid information and the specific length data including the winning / non-winning information when executing the predetermined calculation. A portion of the data of the specific length that is not included in the valid / invalid information and the winning / non-winning information is excluded from the predetermined calculation by a mask process (for example, the CPU 103 before step S56 in FIG. 23A). A portion for executing mask processing in step S55A),
It is good.

  According to such a configuration, it is possible to effectively use the storage capacity by using bits that are not included in the valid / invalid information and the winning / non-winning information in the data having a specific length for other purposes.

( 5 ) In any of the above gaming machines (1) to ( 4 ),
The winning valid / invalid determining means obtains a logical product operation of valid / invalid information and winning / non-winning information as the predetermined calculation (see FIG. 24).
It is good.

  According to such a configuration, security can be improved by a simple calculation.

1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine according to Embodiment 1. FIG. It is a block diagram which shows the various control boards etc. which were mounted in the pachinko game machine. It is explanatory drawing which illustrates the random number for game counted on the main board side. It is a figure which illustrates a fluctuation pattern. It is a block diagram which shows the structural example of the data holding area for game control. It is the flowchart etc. which show an example of the timer interruption process for game control. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a special symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a start winning determination process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a special symbol normal process. It is a figure which shows the example of determinations, such as a special figure display result. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a special symbol stop process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a big hit release pre-processing. It is a figure which shows an example of a big hit release pattern table. It is a figure which shows an example of a big winning opening open | release pattern table. It is a figure which shows the structural example of a solenoid output data table. It is a figure which shows the structural example of an abnormal winning confirmation table. It is the flowchart etc. which show an example of processing during big hit release. It is a flowchart which shows an example of processing after big hit release. It is a flowchart which shows an example of processing after big hit release. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a jackpot end process. It is the flowchart etc. which show an example of a small hit release pre-processing. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a process during small hit release. It is the flowchart etc. which show an example of a prize information process. It is a figure which shows the example of the logical product calculation result in a prize alerting | reporting process. It is a figure which shows the example of the result of the arithmetic processing in the prize alerting | reporting process in a modification.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment and shows an arrangement layout of main members. The pachinko gaming machine (gaming machine) 1 is roughly divided into a gaming board (gauge board) constituting a gaming board surface and a gaming machine frame (base frame) 3 for supporting and fixing the gaming board. On the game board, a substantially circular game area 2 surrounded by guide rails is formed. In this game area 2, a game ball as a game medium is launched from a predetermined hitting ball launching device and driven.

  A first special symbol display device 4A and a second special symbol display device 4B are provided at a predetermined position of the game board (in the example shown in FIG. 1, to the right of the game area 2). Each of the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B is composed of, for example, 7-segment or dot matrix LEDs (light emitting diodes) and the like. Special symbols (also referred to as “special graphics”), which are a plurality of types of identification information (special identification information) that can be displayed, are variably displayed (variable display). For example, each of the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B variably displays a plurality of types of special symbols composed of numbers indicating "0" to "9", symbols indicating "-", and the like. To do.

  The special symbols displayed on the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B are limited to those composed of numbers indicating "0" to "9", symbols indicating "-", and the like. However, for example, a plurality of types of lighting patterns in which the combination of the LED to be turned on and the LED to be turned off in the 7-segment LED may be set in advance as a plurality of types of special symbols. Hereinafter, the special symbol variably displayed on the first special symbol display device 4A is also referred to as "first special symbol", and the special symbol variably displayed on the second special symbol display device 4B is also referred to as "second special symbol". .

  An image display device 5 is provided near the center of the game area 2 on the game board. The image display device 5 is composed of, for example, an LCD (liquid crystal display device) or the like, and forms a display area for displaying various effect images. In the display area of the image display device 5, the first special symbol variable display by the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol variable display by the second special symbol display device 4B in the special symbol game respectively correspond to the variable display. For example, in a decorative symbol display area serving as a plurality of variable display units such as three, decorative symbols that are a plurality of types of identification information (decorative identification information) that can be identified are variably displayed. This variable display of decorative designs is also included in the variable display game.

  As an example, “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas are arranged in the display area of the image display device 5. And in response to the start of one of the changes in the first special symbol in the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol in the second special symbol display device 4B in the special symbol game, In each of the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas, variation of decorative symbols (for example, scroll display in the vertical direction) is started. Thereafter, when the fixed special symbol is stopped and displayed as a variable display result in the special symbol game, the decorative symbol can be changed in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas in the image display device 5. The confirmed decorative symbol (final stop symbol) that is the display result is stopped and displayed.

  As described above, in the display area of the image display device 5, a special game using the first special graphic in the first special symbol display device 4A or a special graphic using the second special graphic in the second special symbol display device 4B is used. In synchronism with the figure game, variable display of a plurality of types of decorative symbols that can be identified is performed, and a definite decorative symbol that is a variable display result is derived and displayed (or simply referred to as “derivation”). In addition, for example, deriving and displaying various display symbols such as a special symbol and a decorative symbol means that identification information such as a decorative symbol is stopped and displayed (also referred to as a complete stop display or a final stop display) and the variable display is ended. . On the other hand, during the variable display from the start of the variable display of the decorative pattern until the fixed decorative pattern that is the variable display result is derived and displayed, the variation speed of the decorative pattern becomes “0”, The symbol may be displayed in a stationary state, for example, in a display state that causes slight shaking or expansion / contraction. Such a display state is also called a temporary stop display, and although the display result in the variable display is not displayed deterministically, the player can recognize that the variation of the decorative pattern due to the scroll display or the update display is not progressing. It becomes. The temporary stop display may include displaying the decorative symbols completely stopped for a time shorter than a predetermined time (for example, 1 second) without causing slight shaking or expansion / contraction.

  In the display area of the image display device 5, a start winning storage display area may be arranged. In the start winning memory display area, a hold memory display for displaying the variable display hold number (special figure hold memory number) in an identifiable manner is performed. Here, the holding of the variable display is based on the fact that the game ball has entered (starting winning) the first starting winning opening formed by the normal winning ball apparatus 6A and the second starting winning opening formed by the ordinary variable winning ball apparatus 6B. The start condition (also referred to as “execution condition”) for executing the variable display game such as the special figure game or the variable display of the decorative design is established, but the variable display game based on the start condition established previously is being executed. This occurs when the start condition for starting the variable display game is not satisfied because the pachinko gaming machine 1 is controlled to the big hit game state or the small hit game state.

  For example, a special game start condition (first start condition) using the first special figure by the first special symbol display device 4A due to the occurrence of the first start prize that the game ball passes (enters) through the first start prize opening. ) Is satisfied, if the first start condition for starting the special figure game using the first special figure based on the establishment of the first start condition is not satisfied, the first special figure holding storage number is 1. Addition (increment) is made, and execution of the special figure game using the first special figure is suspended. In addition, when the second start winning that the game ball passes (enters) through the second start winning opening is generated, the start condition of the special figure game using the second special figure by the second special symbol display device 4B (second start condition) ) Is established, if the second start condition for starting the special figure game using the second special figure based on the establishment of the second start condition is not established, the second special figure holding memory number is 1. Addition (increment) is made, and execution of the special figure game using the second special figure is suspended. On the other hand, when the execution of the special figure game using the first special figure is started, the first special figure holding memory number is decremented by 1 (decrement), and the special figure game using the second special figure is executed. Is started, the second special figure reserved memory number is decremented by 1 (decremented).

  The variable display hold memory number obtained by adding the first special figure hold memory number and the second special figure hold memory number is also referred to as a total hold memory number. When simply referring to the “number of special figure hold memory”, it usually refers to a concept including any of the first special figure hold memory number, the second special figure hold memory number, and the total hold memory number. It may refer to a concept that includes the first special figure reserved memory number and the second special figure reserved memory number but excludes the total reserved memory number).

  A display for displaying the number of reserved special figure memories may be provided together with the start winning memory display area or instead of the start winning memory display area. In the example shown in FIG. 1, together with the start winning memory display area, a first hold display for displaying the number of special figure hold memories identifiable on the upper part of the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B. A device 25A and a second hold indicator 25B are provided. The first hold indicator 25A displays the first special figure hold memory number so that it can be specified. The second hold indicator 25B displays the second special figure hold memory number so that it can be specified. Each of the first hold indicator 25A and the second hold indicator 25B has a number (for example, 4) corresponding to an upper limit value (for example, “4”) in each of the first special figure hold memory number and the second special figure hold memory number, for example. LED).

  The game area 2 formed on the board surface of the game board includes a left game area 2A (first game area) on the left side of the top of the image display device 5, and a right game area 2B (second game area) on the right side. There is. The left game area 2A, which is the first game area, and the right game area 2B, which is the second game area, are only required to be separated by the end face of the image display device 5 or the nail arrangement PL in the game area 2, for example. . When the game ball launched from the ball striking device and driven into the game area 2 is guided to the left game area 2A, which is the first game area, for example, by being guided along the array PL of nails, It becomes impossible or difficult to guide to the right game area 2B which is the second game area.

  In the left game area 2A, a normal winning ball device 6A is provided. For example, the normal winning ball device 6 </ b> A is provided below the center of the image display device 5. The normal winning ball device 6A forms a first start winning opening that is always kept in a certain open state by a predetermined ball receiving member, for example. As described above, the left game area 2A is provided with the normal winning ball device 6A that forms the first start winning opening through which the game ball can always enter (pass).

  In the right game area 2B, an ordinary variable winning ball apparatus 6B is provided. The normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B is an electric tulip-type accessory having a pair of movable wing pieces that are changed between a closed state in a vertical position and an open state in a tilt position by a solenoid 81 for a normal electric accessory shown in FIG. (Ordinary electric accessory) is provided and a second start winning opening is formed. As an example, in the normally variable winning ball apparatus 6B, the movable wing piece is in the vertical position when the solenoid 81 for the ordinary electric accessory is in the off state, so that the game ball passes (enters) through the second start winning opening. Do not close. On the other hand, in the normally variable winning ball apparatus 6B, when the solenoid 81 for the normal electric accessory is in the ON state, the movable wing piece is in the tilting position, so that the game ball passes (enters) the second starting winning hole. ) Make it open. The normally variable winning ball apparatus 6B is normally opened when the solenoid 81 is in the off state, and the game ball can enter (pass) through the second start winning opening, while the expansion when the solenoid 81 is in the on state. You may comprise so that a game ball may enter (pass) more easily than an open state. Thus, in the right game area 2B, the first variable state in which the game ball can pass (enter) through the second start winning opening, and the second variable in which the game ball cannot pass (enter) or pass (entry) is difficult. An ordinary variable winning ball apparatus 6B that can change to a variable state is provided.

  The game balls guided to the left game area 2A, which is the first game area, by the arrangement of the normal winning ball apparatus 6A, the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B, etc. in the left game area 2A and the right game area 2B are the second game area. It is impossible or difficult to pass (enter) the second start winning opening formed by the normally variable winning ball apparatus 6B provided in the right game area 2B. In addition, the game ball guided to the right game area 2B which is the second game area has a first start winning opening formed by the normal winning ball apparatus 6A provided in the left game area 2A which is the first game area. It is impossible or difficult to pass (enter).

  A game ball that has entered the first start winning opening formed in the normal winning ball apparatus 6A is detected by, for example, a first start opening switch 22A shown in FIG. A game ball that has entered the second start winning opening formed in the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B is detected by, for example, a second start opening switch 22B shown in FIG. Based on the detection of the game ball by the first start port switch 22A, a predetermined number (for example, three) of game balls are paid out as prize balls (prize game media), and the first reserved memory number is a predetermined upper limit value. If it is less than (for example, “4”), the first start condition is satisfied. Based on the detection of the game ball by the second start port switch 22B, a predetermined number (for example, three) of game balls are paid out as prize balls, and if the second reserved memory number is equal to or less than a predetermined upper limit value, The second start condition is satisfied. The number of prize balls to be paid out based on the detection of the game ball by the first start port switch 22A and the number of prize balls to be paid out based on the detection of the game ball by the second start port switch 22B. May be the same number or different numbers.

  Two special variable winning ball devices (upper special variable winning device 7A, lower special variable winning device 7B) are provided below the normal variable winning ball device 6B. The upper special variable winning ball apparatus 7A includes an upper large winning opening door which is opened and closed by a solenoid 82A for the upper large winning opening shown in FIG. 2, and is changed between an open state and a closed state by the upper large winning opening door. To form a top prize opening. As an example, in the upper special variable winning ball apparatus 7A, when the solenoid 82A for the upper large prize opening door is in the OFF state, the upper large prize opening door closes the upper large prize winning opening. On the other hand, in the upper special variable winning ball apparatus 7A, when the solenoid 82A for the upper prize winning door is in the on state, the upper prize winning door opens the upper prize winning opening. A game ball that has entered the upper special winning opening formed in the upper special variable winning ball apparatus 7A is detected by, for example, an upper special winning opening switch 23A shown in FIG.

  The lower special variable winning ball apparatus 7B includes a lower large winning opening door that is opened and closed by a lower large winning opening door solenoid 82B shown in FIG. 2, and the lower large winning opening door changes between an open state and a closed state. To form the Shimodai prize opening. As an example, in the lower special variable winning ball apparatus 7B, when the solenoid 82B for the lower large prize opening door is in the off state, the lower large winning opening door closes the lower large prize opening. On the other hand, in the lower special variable winning ball apparatus 7B, when the lower large prize opening door solenoid 82B is in the ON state, the lower large prize opening door opens the lower large prize opening. A game ball that has entered the lower major prize opening formed in the lower special variable prize winning ball device 7B is detected by, for example, the lower major prize opening switch 23B shown in FIG.

  A large number of game balls are paid out as prize balls when the game balls pass (enter) through the upper prize hall formed by the upper special variable prize ball apparatus 7A and the lower major prize hall formed by the lower special variable prize ball apparatus 7B. It is. That is, the special variable winning ball apparatus 7A is in a first state that is advantageous to the player by opening the upper prize winning opening with the upper prize winning door. The lower special variable winning ball device 7B is in a first state that is advantageous to the player by opening the lower large winning opening by the lower large winning opening door. On the other hand, the upper special variable winning ball apparatus 7A is in a second state that is disadvantageous to the player by closing the upper large winning opening by the upper large winning opening door. The lower special variable winning ball device 7B is in a second state that is disadvantageous to the player by closing the lower large winning opening by the lower large winning opening door 71. In addition to the closed state where the game ball cannot pass (enter) through the upper prize winning opening and the lower prize winning opening, or in addition to the closed condition, the game ball passes (entrance) through the upper prize winning opening and the lower prize winning opening. A partially open state that is difficult to perform may be provided.

  Inside the lower special variable winning ball apparatus 7B, a game ball that has entered the lower large winning opening opened by the lower large winning opening door passes through or does not pass through a predetermined probability changing area. A guide path for guiding to the discharge path from the special variable winning ball apparatus 7B is provided. A game ball that has entered the lower special variable winning ball apparatus 7B first passes through a route provided with a lower large winning port switch 23B for detecting the winning game ball, and then a guide path to the probability variation region and the probability variation region. To the taxiway that leads to the discharge route without passing through When the gaming ball guided to the branch path flows down the guiding path to the probability changing area, the gaming ball is detected by the probability changing area switch 24A, so that the probability changing control condition for changing to the probability changing state after the big hit gaming state is satisfied. To establish. In other words, the probability variation region switch 24A is set as a probability variation region, and a predetermined probability variation control condition can be established based on the fact that the game ball has passed through the probability variation region. Since the probability variation area is inside the lower special variable winning ball apparatus 7B, only game balls that have won the lower special variable winning ball apparatus 7B can pass through.

  The probability variation region is changed between an open state in which the game ball can pass and a closed state in which the game ball cannot pass by the probability variation region lid driven by the solenoid 82C for the probability variation region lid. As an example, when the solenoid 82C for the probability variation region lid is in the OFF state, the probability variation region lid 72 moves to a position (regulatory position) that closes (closes) the probability variation region, thereby bringing the probability variation region into a closed state. On the other hand, when the probability changing region lid solenoid 82C is in the ON state, the probability variation region lid 72 moves to a position (allowable position) where the probability variation region is not blocked (not closed), thereby opening the probability variation region. The game ball that has reached the branch point when the probability variation area is in the closed state does not pass through the probability variation area and is discharged as it is from the lower special variable winning device 7B. In this case, the game ball is detected by the discharge switch 24 </ b> B installed on the guide path to the common discharge path 74. On the other hand, the game ball that has reached the branch point when the probability variation area is in the open state passes through the probability variation area and is detected by the probability variation area switch 23B installed in the probability variation area. Then, the game balls that have passed through the probability variation area are discharged from the lower special variable winning device 7B. When the game ball that has won the lower special variable prize-winning device 7B passes through the probability variation region, the probability variation region switch B is controlled to a probability variation state, which will be described later, based on detection of the game ball that has passed through the probability variation region. For this reason, the rate at which the game ball wins the lower special variable winning device 7B and the rate at which the probability variation area lid 73 is at the allowable position and the timing thereof are adjusted to suitably set the proportion to be controlled to the probability variation state. I can do it.

  In the present embodiment, at least the vicinity of the probability variation area in the lower special variable winning device 7B is configured to be invisible or difficult for the player. For this reason, it is difficult or impossible for the player to check whether or not the game ball that has entered the lower special variable prize-winning device 7B has passed the probability variation area (whether or not the probability variation control condition is satisfied). According to such a configuration, when the lower special variable winning device 7B changes to the open state, whether or not the game ball has passed through the probability change area is concealed and whether or not the player is controlled to the probability change state. Can expect that expectation.

  In addition to the above-described configuration, the surface of the game board is provided with a windmill and a number of obstacle nails that change the flow direction and speed of the game ball. In addition, as a winning opening different from the first starting winning opening, the second starting winning opening, and the large winning opening, for example, a single or plural general winning openings that are always kept in a certain open state by a predetermined ball receiving member are provided. May be. In this case, a predetermined number (for example, 10) of game balls may be paid out as a prize ball based on the fact that a game ball that has entered one of the general prize openings is detected by a predetermined general prize ball switch. In the lowermost part of the game area 2, there is provided an out port through which game balls that have not entered any winning port are taken.

  Speakers 8L and 8R for reproducing and outputting sound effects and the like are provided at the left and right upper positions of the gaming machine frame 3, and a game effect lamp 9 is provided at the periphery of the gaming area 2. . Around each structure in the game area 2 of the pachinko gaming machine 1 (for example, a normal winning ball device 6A, a normal variable winning ball device 6B, an upper special variable winning ball device 7A, a lower special variable winning ball device 7B, etc.) LEDs may be arranged.

  A hitting operation handle (operation knob) operated by a player or the like to launch a game ball as a game medium toward the game area 2 is provided on the lower right side of the front surface of the housing of the pachinko gaming machine 1. . For example, the hitting operation handle adjusts the resilience of the game ball according to the operation amount (rotation amount) by the player or the like. The hitting operation handle only needs to be provided with a single shot switch or a touch ring (touch sensor) for stopping the driving of a shooting motor included in the hitting ball shooting device. At a predetermined position below the game area 2, there is an upper plate that holds (stores) game balls paid out as prize balls or game balls lent out by a predetermined ball lending machine so as to be supplied to the ball hitting device. Is provided. For example, an operation button 30 that can be operated by the player by a pressing operation or the like is provided at a predetermined position on the front side of the upper surface of the upper plate.

  Next, the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1 will be schematically described.

  In the pachinko gaming machine 1, when the game ball passes (enters) the first start winning opening formed by the normal winning ball apparatus 6A in the left game area 2A, the game ball is detected by the first start opening switch 22A shown in FIG. As a result, the first start condition is satisfied. Thereafter, a special game using the first special figure by the first special symbol display device 4A is started based on the fact that the first start condition is satisfied, for example, due to the end of the previous special figure game or the big hit gaming state. Is done.

  When the game ball passes (enters) the second start winning opening formed by the normally variable winning ball apparatus 6B in the right game area 2B, the game ball is detected by the second start opening switch 22B shown in FIG. The second start condition is satisfied. Thereafter, a special game using the second special figure by the second special symbol display device 4B is started based on the fact that the second start condition is satisfied, for example, due to the end of the previous special figure game or the big hit gaming state. Is done. However, when the normally variable winning ball apparatus 6B is in the normally open state or the closed state as the second variable state, it is difficult or impossible for the game ball to pass through the second start winning opening.

  In the present embodiment, in the normal game state different from the probability change state described later, the normally variable display device 6B is in the second variable state (closed state), so that it is difficult or impossible for the game ball to pass through the second start winning opening. Is possible. Therefore, the special figure game using the second special figure is not started (or is difficult to start). Therefore, in the normal game state that has not yet been controlled to the certainty change state, the player guides the game ball to the left game area 2A and uses the first special game based on the first special figure based on the winning in the first start winning opening. The start of the game and the “big hit” of the special figure game. In the big hit gaming state based on the fact that the variable display result of “big hit” is derived as a result of the special figure game using the first special figure, the lower special variable winning device 7B is played in a specific round (14 or 16 rounds). A game ball enters and can pass through the probability variation area. When the game ball passes through the probability variation area, a probability variation confirmation flag, which will be described later, is set, and the transition to the special game state controlled to the probability variation state is confirmed. Thereafter, when the big hit gaming state is finished, the probability changing state is controlled, the normal variable display device 6B is changed to the first variable state (open state), and the gaming ball can pass through the second start winning opening. As will be described later, in the present embodiment, the second special game is more advantageous than the first special game. Therefore, the player guides the game ball to the right game area 2A, starts the special figure game using the second special figure based on the winning at the second start winning opening, and the “big hit” of the special figure game. Will be aimed at. With such a configuration, it is possible to provide the player with various gaming experiences that change according to the gaming state.

  When a special symbol game using the first special symbol by the first special symbol display device 4A is started or when a special symbol game using the second special symbol by the second special symbol display device 4B is started, a special game is started. It is determined (predetermined) before the variable display result is derived and displayed whether or not the variable display result of the symbol is set to “big hit” as a predetermined specific display result. Then, the variation pattern is determined at a predetermined ratio based on the determination of the variable display result, and the effect control command for designating the variable display result and the variation pattern is the game control microcomputer 100 of the main board 11 shown in FIG. To the effect control board 12.

  After the special figure game is started based on the determination of the variable display result and the variation pattern, for example, when a predetermined variable display time corresponding to the variation pattern elapses, a definite special symbol as a variable display result is derived. Is displayed. Corresponding to the variable display of special symbols by the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B, decorations of “left”, “middle”, and “right” arranged in the display area of the image display device 5 In the symbol display area, variable display of a decorative symbol (effect symbol) different from the special symbol is performed.

  In the special symbol game using the first special symbol by the first special symbol display device 4A and the special symbol game using the second special symbol by the second special symbol display device 4B, a fixed special that results in variable display of the special symbol When the symbol is derived and displayed, a fixed decorative symbol that is a variable display result of the decorative symbol is derived and displayed on the image display device 5. When a predetermined jackpot symbol is derived and displayed as a variable symbol display result of the special symbol, the variable display result becomes “big jackpot” (specific display result), which is controlled to a jackpot gaming state as a specific gaming state advantageous to the player. The That is, whether or not the game state is controlled to the big hit gaming state corresponds to whether or not the variable display result is “big hit”, and is determined (predetermined) before the variable display result is derived and displayed.

  When the variable display result of the special symbol in the special game is “big hit”, a fixed decorative symbol that is a predetermined big hit combination is derived and displayed in the display area of the image display device 5. As an example, the same decorative pattern is stopped and displayed on the predetermined effective line in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas, and a definite decorative symbol that is a big hit combination is derived and displayed. It only has to be done.

  In the big hit gaming state, the upper special winning opening or the lower special winning opening is in an open state, and the upper special variable winning ball apparatus 7A or the lower special variable winning ball apparatus 7B is in a first state advantageous to the player. Then, until a predetermined period (for example, 20 seconds, about 27 seconds, or 57 milliseconds) or a predetermined number (for example, 6) of game balls enter the upper large winning opening or the lower large winning opening and a winning ball is generated. During this period, a round game is executed in which the upper university winning opening or the lower university winning opening is continuously opened. During periods other than the execution period of such round games, the upper prize winning opening and the lower prize winning opening are closed, making it difficult or impossible to generate winning balls. When a game ball enters the upper university winning opening, the winning ball is detected by the upper university winning opening switch 23A, and a predetermined number (for example, 14) of game balls are paid out each time it is detected. When a game ball enters the lower major prize opening, the lower major prize opening switch 23B detects the winning ball, and similarly, a predetermined number of gaming balls are paid out. The round game in the big hit game state is repeatedly executed until a predetermined upper limit number of times (for example, “16”) is reached. Therefore, in the big hit gaming state, the player can acquire a large number of prize balls very easily, and the gaming state is advantageous to the player. Note that the pachinko gaming machine 1 may be one that directly pays out game balls that are prize balls, or may be one that gives a score corresponding to the number of game balls that are prize balls.

  After the big hit gaming state is finished, the probability that the variable display result will be “big hit” (hit probability) is controlled to be a positive change state that is higher than the normal state based on the fact that the predetermined probability change control condition is satisfied. There is. In the present embodiment, the probability variation control condition is that the probability variation region switch 24A detects the passage of the game ball that has entered the lower special variable winning ball device 7B from the lower major prize opening to the probability variation region. This probability change state is controlled so as to continue until a predetermined number of variable displays (for example, 50 times) are executed. That is, the end of variable display a predetermined number of times is a probability change end condition.

  In the probability variation state, the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B that is in the second variable state (closed state) in the normal state, and the first variable state (open state or expanded opening) in which the game ball can pass (enter) through the second starting winning opening. State) and impossible (or difficult) second variable state (closed state or normally open state). Thus, the control for changing the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B between the first variable state and the second variable state is referred to as electric chew release control. In the present embodiment, as will be described later, the fact that the second special game started when the game ball has passed through the second starting prize opening has passed through the first starting prize opening which can pass even in a normal state. It is more advantageous for the player than the first special figure game started based on the game. Therefore, the probability variation state in which the electric chew release control is executed is a special game state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal state.

  Even when the probability variation control is performed in the probability variation state, the electric chew release control may not be performed. For example, when the variable display result is “big hit”, the upper limit time for the upper big prize opening and the lower big prize opening to be open in the big hit gaming state is short, and the game ball is difficult to pass (entry) or passes (entry) ) An impossible round game is executed, and it may be controlled to a probable change state after the jackpot game state ends. In such a case, the jackpot type is also referred to as “surprise accuracy” (also referred to as “sudden probability change”). And when the electric display release control is not performed and the variable display result is `` big hit '' and the big hit type is `` surprise '', the probability change control is performed after the big hit gaming state is finished, The electric chew release control may not be performed.

  The game ball used as a game medium in the pachinko gaming machine 1 and the recorded information of the score given corresponding to the number thereof have value that can be exchanged for special prizes or general prizes according to the quantity, for example. That's fine. Alternatively, these game balls and score recording information may not be exchanged for special prizes or general prizes, but may have valuable value that can be used for a second game in the pachinko gaming machine 1.

  Further, the game value that can be given in the pachinko gaming machine 1 is not limited to paying out a game ball as a prize ball or giving a score. For example, the game value can be controlled to a big hit game state or a special game state such as a probable change state. The first rate (for example, 1/1) in which the rate at which the advantageous big hit gaming state (for example, the second big hit gaming state) is selected to be controlled and the big hit is higher than the second rate (for example, 1/2) is selected. ), The maximum number of rounds that can be executed in the jackpot gaming state is the first round number (for example, “16”) larger than the second round number (for example, “7”), the jackpot probability in the probability variation state May be a game situation that is more advantageous to the player, such as a first probability (for example, 1/20) higher than a second probability (for example, 1/50).

  In this embodiment, the round game is executed 16 times (16 rounds) in the specific game state regardless of the jackpot type described later. Among these, when the number of executions of the round game becomes “14” and “16” as the specific number of times, the round game with the lower big prize opening opened is executed and the lower special variable winning ball apparatus 7B. Becomes the first state advantageous to the player. On the other hand, when the number of executions of the round game is other than “14” and “16” as the specific number of times, the round game with the upper prize opening opened is executed, and the upper special variable winning ball apparatus 7A is for the player. This is an advantageous first state. In the round games executed at the 14th and 16th times, the lower special variable winning ball device 7B is in the first state (open state), and the game ball that has entered the lower special variable winning ball device 7B can pass through the probability variation area. These round games are also called probabilistic open round games. On the other hand, in the round game, the round game in which the first special variable winning ball apparatus 7A of the first to thirteenth and fifteenth times is in the first state (open state) is also referred to as a normal open round game (or top open round). Further, assuming that one round game is executed as one round, the big hit game state executed based on one “big hit” includes a plurality of rounds. Of these, the 14th and 16th rounds in which the lower special variable winning device 7B is opened are the lower open rounds, and the lower special variable winning device 7B executed in the 1st to 13th and 16th rounds is opened. Each round is expressed as an upper open round. That is, when the variable display result is “big hit”, in the big hit gaming state controlled based on the “big hit”, the round game (the lower open round A plurality of round games, including a game) and a round game (upper open round game) in which an operation time of the upper prize winning door is provided.

  In the present embodiment, as the big hit type when the variable display result is “big hit”, in the big hit gaming state controlled based on the “big hit”, the number of round games executed is “14” as the specific number of times. When it is “16” (14th and 16th rounds), there are a plurality of types of jackpot types with different upper limit times for opening the lower prize winning opening (see FIG. 10B). As an example, when the big hit type is “first big hit”, the upper limit time for opening the lower big prize opening is set to “first big hit gaming state” set to 52 milliseconds. On the other hand, when the big hit type is “second big hit” or “third big hit”, the upper limit time for opening the lower big prize opening is longer than the first big hit (about “second big hit” is about 27 seconds). The game is controlled to the big hit gaming state ("second big hit gaming state" for the second big hit, "third big hit gaming state" for the third big hit). . In the first big hit game state, since the control time for the open state is as short as 52 milliseconds, the rate at which the game ball can actually enter the lower big prize opening and enter the lower special variable prize winning device 7B is low. Therefore, when the big hit type is “first big hit”, it is unlikely that the game ball will pass (enter) through the lower big prize opening, and the probability variation control condition is established for the probability variation state after the big hit gaming state ends. Hard to do. On the other hand, since the game is released for about 27 seconds in the second big hit game state and about 2 seconds in the third big hit game state, a high rate is obtained if the game ball is guided to the right game area 2B in which the lower special variable winning device 7B is installed. The game ball can enter the lower special variable winning device 7B. Therefore, the probability variation control condition for entering the probability variation state after the end of the big hit gaming state is likely to be satisfied.

  Further, in this embodiment, as the big hit type when the variable display result is “big hit”, in the big hit gaming state controlled based on the “big hit”, the number of executions of the round game is “1” as the specific number of times. When there are “13” and “16”, there are a plurality of types of jackpot types with different upper limit times for opening the top prize winning opening. When the variable display result of “third big hit” is derived, the number of prize balls paid out in the big hit gaming state executed based on the big hit is smaller than that of the first or second big hit. The ratio that is controlled to the probable state after the completion is higher than “first big hit” as well as “second big hit”. Specifically, in the upper open round of the third big hit, the time for the upper prize winning opening to be in an open state is as short as 52 milliseconds, and the possibility that a game ball will pass (enter) into the upper prize winning opening is low. This is because the winning ball payout condition is not satisfied. On the other hand, in the lower open round, since the upper limit time for opening the lower large winning opening is about 2 seconds, which is longer than the first big hit, the probability variation control condition is likely to be satisfied in the third big hit like the second big hit. As described above, the “third big hit” is a type of big hit with less so-called ball corresponding to “surprise” in the present embodiment.

  Which of a plurality of types of jackpot types is determined is determined at a predetermined rate, for example, in response to the determination that the variable display result is “big hit” at the start of the special figure game. When a game ball enters the lower special variable winning device 7B, not only a predetermined number of game balls are paid out, but depending on the position of the probability variation region lid 72, the game ball passes through the probability variation region and the variable display result is “big hit”. Is controlled to a probability variation state having a higher probability than the non-probability variation state. Therefore, the second big hit gaming state is more advantageous for the player than the first big hit gaming state. Further, the second big hit game state is more advantageous to the player than the third big hit game state from the viewpoint that a lot of prize balls are paid out in the upper open round. In the first big hit and the third big hit, the first big hit is advantageous from the viewpoint of paying out the winning ball, and the third big hit is advantageous from the viewpoint of establishment of the probability variation control condition.

  Various control boards such as a main board 11, an effect control board 12, an audio control board 13, and a lamp control board 14 as shown in FIG. 2 are mounted on the pachinko gaming machine 1. The pachinko gaming machine 1 is also equipped with a relay board 15 for relaying various control signals transmitted between the main board 11 and the effect control board 12. In addition, various boards such as a payout control board, an information terminal board, a launch control board, an interface board, and a touch sensor board are arranged on the back of the game board or the like in the pachinko gaming machine 1.

  The main board 11 is a main-side control board on which various circuits for controlling the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1 are mounted. The main board 11 is mainly addressed to a sub-side control board composed of a random number setting function used in a special game, a function of inputting a signal from a switch or the like disposed at a predetermined position, and an effect control board 12. A function of outputting and transmitting a control command as an example of command information as a control signal, a function of outputting various information to a hall management computer, and the like are provided. In addition, the main board 11 performs on / off control of each LED (for example, segment LED) constituting the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B, and thereby the first special diagram and the second special diagram. It also has a function of controlling variable display of a predetermined display pattern, such as controlling the variable display.

  On the main board 11, for example, a game control microcomputer 100, a switch circuit 110, a solenoid circuit 111, and the like are mounted. The switch circuit 110 takes in detection signals from various switches for detecting game balls and transmits them to the game control microcomputer 100. The solenoid circuit 111 sends a solenoid drive signal from the game control microcomputer 100 to a solenoid 81 for an ordinary electric accessory, a solenoid 82A for an upper prize winning door, a solenoid 82B for a lower prize winning door, and a probability change area lid. Is transmitted to the solenoid 82C. In the present embodiment, whether or not the solenoid circuit 111 transmits a drive signal to each solenoid is determined according to a value of a solenoid output data table (FIG. 14) stored in a game control flag setting unit 152 described later. . Specifically, as shown in FIG. 15, each bit of the solenoid output data table includes a plurality of solenoids (a solenoid 81 for a normal electric accessory, a solenoid 82A for an upper prize opening door, and a lower prize opening door). Used as a flag indicating whether or not a control signal is transmitted to the solenoid 82B of the solenoid and the solenoid 82C for the probability variation region lid. When the flag is set (bit value is “1”), the drive control signal can be transmitted to the corresponding solenoid, while when the flag is clear (bit value is “0”) No drive control signal is transmitted. Therefore, by updating the solenoid output data table, depending on the progress of the game, whether or not to drive (open / close) control of the normal electric accessory, upper large prize opening door, lower large prize opening door, probability variation area lid, etc. Can be suitably switched.

  The effect control board 12 is a sub-side control board independent of the main board 11, receives the control signal transmitted from the main board 11 via the relay board 15, and receives the image display device 5, the speakers 8L, 8R. In addition, various circuits for controlling the rendering operation by the electrical components for rendering such as the game effect lamp 9 and the decoration LED are mounted. That is, the effect control board 12 performs all or part of the display operation in the image display device 5, all or part of the sound output operation from the speakers 8L and 8R, and all or one of the on / off operations in the game effect lamp 9 and the decoration LED. A function of determining the control content for causing the electrical component for production to execute a predetermined production operation, such as a section.

  The sound control board 13 is a control board for sound output control provided separately from the effect control board 12, and outputs sound from the speakers 8 </ b> L and 8 </ b> R based on commands and control data from the effect control board 12. For example, a processing circuit for executing audio signal processing is mounted. The lamp control board 14 is a control board for lamp output control provided separately from the effect control board 12, and based on commands and control data from the effect control board 12, the game effect lamp 9 and the power-saving notification LED 9L , 9R and the like are mounted with a lamp driver circuit for performing on / off driving.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the main board 11 includes a gate switch 21, a start opening switch (first start opening switch 22A and a second start opening switch 22B), and a big winning opening switch (an upper winning opening switch 23A and a lower large opening switch). Wiring lines for transmitting detection signals from various switches such as a prize opening switch 23B), a probability changing area switch 24A, and a discharge switch 24B are connected. In addition, various switches should just have arbitrary structures which can detect the game ball | bowl as game media like what is called a sensor, for example. The main board 11 is connected to a wiring for transmitting a command signal for performing display control, such as the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B.

  A control signal transmitted from the main board 11 toward the effect control board 12 is relayed by the relay board 15. The control command transmitted from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12 via the relay board 15 is, for example, an effect control command transmitted and received as an electric signal. The effect control command includes, for example, a display control command used for controlling an image display operation in the image display device 5, a voice control command used for controlling sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R, and a game effect lamp 9. In addition, lamp control commands used for controlling lighting operations of the decoration LEDs and the power saving notification LEDs 9L and 9R are included.

  The game control microcomputer 100 mounted on the main board 11 is, for example, a one-chip microcomputer, and includes a ROM (Read Only Memory) 101 for storing a game control program, fixed data, and the like, and a game control work. A RAM (Random Access Memory) 102 that provides an area, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 103 that executes a control program by executing a game control program, and updates numeric data indicating random values independently of the CPU 103 A random number circuit 104 to perform and an I / O (Input / Output port) 105 are provided.

  As an example, in the game control microcomputer 100, a process for controlling the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1 is executed by the CPU 103 executing a program read from the ROM 101. At this time, the CPU 103 reads fixed data from the ROM 101, the CPU 103 writes various fluctuation data to the RAM 102 and temporarily stores the fluctuation data, and the CPU 103 temporarily stores the various fluctuation data. The CPU 103 receives the input of various signals from outside the game control microcomputer 100 via the I / O 105, and the CPU 103 goes outside the game control microcomputer 100 via the I / O 105. A transmission operation for outputting various signals is also performed. In the present embodiment, the number of bits of the CPU 103 is 8 bits, and 8-bit data is collectively calculated in one step.

  Note that the one-chip microcomputer constituting the game control microcomputer 100 only needs to incorporate the RAM 102 in addition to the CPU 103, and the ROM 101, the random number circuit 104, the I / O 105, and the like may be externally attached.

  In the game control microcomputer 100, the CPU 103 executes control in accordance with the program stored in the ROM 101. Therefore, the game control microcomputer 100 (or CPU 103) executes (or performs processing) hereinafter. Specifically, the CPU 103 executes control according to a program. The same applies to microcomputers mounted on substrates other than the main substrate 11.

  In the game control microcomputer 100, for example, the random number circuit 104 or the like counts the numerical data indicating various random values used for controlling the progress of the game in an updatable manner. The random number used for controlling the progress of the game is also called a game random number. The game random number may be updated by hardware such as the random number circuit 104 or may be updated by software when the CPU 103 of the game control microcomputer 100 executes a predetermined computer program. May be. For example, numerical data indicating a predetermined random number value is stored in a random counter provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 102 in the game control microcomputer 100 or a random counter provided in an internal register different from the RAM 102. The random number value may be updated by updating the stored value periodically or irregularly.

  In this embodiment, on the side of the main board 11, as shown in FIG. 3, each of a random number value MR1 for determining a special figure display result, a random value MR2 for determining a jackpot type, and a random value MR3 for determining a variation pattern, respectively. Is controlled so that it can be counted (updated). In addition, in order to improve a game effect, random numbers other than these may be used.

  The random number value MR1 for determining the special figure display result is a random number value used for determining whether or not to control the big hit gaming state with the variable display result of the special symbol or the like in the special figure game as “big hit”. The random value MR2 for determining the big hit type is a random value used for determining the big hit type as one of a plurality of types when the variable display result is “big hit”. The random number value MR3 for determining the variation pattern is a random value used for determining any one of a plurality of types of variation patterns of the decorative pattern prepared in advance.

  FIG. 4 shows a variation pattern in this embodiment. In this embodiment, among the cases where the variable display result is “losing”, the variable display mode of the decorative design is “non-reach” and “reach”, respectively. Corresponding to the case where the display result is “big hit”, a plurality of variation patterns are prepared in advance.

  In addition, the variable display mode of the decorative symbol is a decorative symbol that is not yet stopped when the decorative symbol that is stopped and displayed in the display area of the image display device 5 forms a part of the jackpot combination (“reach variation”). (Also referred to as “design”), the display state is continuously changing, or the display state is that all or some of the decorative symbols change synchronously while constituting all or part of the jackpot combination. , Become “reach”. As a specific example, a portion of the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas (for example, the “left” and “right” decorative symbol display areas) constitutes a predetermined jackpot combination. In the remaining decorative symbol display area (for example, the “medium” decorative symbol display area, etc.) that has not yet been stopped when the decorative symbol to be displayed (for example, a decorative symbol indicating “7” alphanumeric characters) is stopped. The display state where the symbols are changing, or the decorative symbols in all or part of the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas are synchronized while constituting all or part of the jackpot combination The display state is changing. Corresponding to the reach state, a character image (effect image simulating a person) different from the decorative design is displayed in the display area of the image display device 5, or the display mode of the background image is changed. Or change the variation of the decorative pattern. Such changes in the character image display, the background image display mode, and the decorative pattern change mode are referred to as reach effect display (or simply reach effect). Such a variable display mode of the decorative pattern that does not become “reach” is referred to as “non-reach”.

  The ROM 101 provided in the game control microcomputer 100 stores a control code indicating a user program (game control processing program for game control), fixed data, and the like. In addition to the game control program, the ROM 101 stores various selection data and table data used for controlling the progress of the game. For example, the ROM 101 stores data constituting a plurality of determination tables, determination tables, setting tables and the like prepared for the CPU 103 to perform various determinations, determinations, and settings. Further, the ROM 101 includes table data constituting a plurality of command tables used for the CPU 103 to transmit control signals serving as various control commands from the main board 11 and a variation pattern table storing a plurality of types of variation patterns. Table data to be stored is stored.

  The RAM 102 included in the game control microcomputer 100 may be a backup RAM that is partially or entirely backed up by a backup power supply created on a predetermined power supply board. That is, even if the power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 1 is stopped, a part or all of the contents of the RAM 102 is stored for a predetermined period (until the capacitor as the backup power supply is discharged and the backup power supply cannot be supplied). The In particular, at least data corresponding to the game state, that is, the control state of the game control means (such as a special figure process flag) and data indicating the number of unpaid prize balls may be 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. The RAM 102 stores various data used for controlling the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1.

  As an example, the RAM 102 is provided with a game control data holding area 150 as shown in FIG. The game control data holding area 150 shown in FIG. 5 includes a first special figure hold storage unit 151A, a second special figure hold storage unit 151B, a game control flag setting unit 152, a game control timer setting unit 153, and a game. A control counter setting unit 154 and a game control buffer setting unit 155 are provided.

  The first special figure storage unit 151A is a special game (in the first special symbol display device 4A) that has not yet started, although the game ball has passed (entered) through the first start winning opening formed by the normal winning ball device 6A. The hold data of the special figure game using the first special figure is stored. As an example, the first special figure reservation storage unit 151A associates the reservation number with the winning order (game ball detection order) to the first start winning opening, and sets the first start condition in the passage (entrance) of the game ball. The reserved data includes the random number value MR1 for determining the special figure display result, the random value MR2 for determining the jackpot type, the random number value MR3 for determining the variation pattern, etc. extracted from the random number circuit 104 by the CPU 103 based on the establishment. Until the number reaches a predetermined upper limit (eg, “4”). The hold data stored in the first special figure holding storage unit 151A in this way indicates that the execution of the special figure game using the first special figure is being held, and the variable display result (special figure display) in this special figure game. Based on the result, the stored storage information can determine whether or not a predetermined game value is given.

  The second special figure storage unit 151B is a special game (second special symbol display device 4B) that has not yet started, although the game ball has passed (entered) the second starting winning opening formed by the normal variable winning ball device 6B. The holding data of the special figure game using the second special figure in FIG. As an example, the second special figure holding storage unit 151B associates with the holding number in the winning order (game ball detection order) to the second start winning opening, The reserved data includes the random number value MR1 for determining the special figure display result, the random number value MR2 for determining the jackpot type, the random number value MR3 for determining the variation pattern, etc. extracted from the random number circuit 104 and the like by the CPU 103 based on the establishment. Until the number reaches a predetermined upper limit (for example, “4”). The hold data stored in the second special figure storage unit 151B in this way indicates that the execution of the special figure game using the second special figure is being held, and the variable display result (special figure display) in this special figure game. Based on the result, the stored storage information can determine whether or not a predetermined game value is given.

  The game control flag setting unit 152 is provided with a plurality of types of flags that can be updated in accordance with the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1. For example, the game control flag setting unit 152 stores data indicating a flag value and data indicating an on state or an off state for each of a plurality of types of flags. For example, in the present embodiment, the game control flag setting unit 152 has a solenoid output data table (FIG. 15) in which solenoid control flags are arranged corresponding to each of a plurality of types of solenoids (solenoids 81, 82A, 82B, etc.). ) Is reserved. In addition, the game control flag setting unit 152 is updated according to the detection result corresponding to each of a plurality of types of switches (in particular, the lower big prize opening switch 23A and the upper big prize opening switch 23B) for detecting a game ball. Area for storing a switch-on buffer (FIG. 6B) and an abnormal winning confirmation table (FIG. 16) used for detecting whether or not the detection result is abnormal.

  As shown in FIG. 6 (B), the switch-on buffer has a bit of S0 set to a value indicating that it has been detected when the lower big prize opening switch 23B detects a game ball won in the lower big prize opening. , And the S1 bit set to a value indicating that it has been detected when the upper prize winning switch 23A detects a game ball won in the upper prize winning opening. Specifically, in the bit of S0, when the lower big prize opening switch 23B detects a game ball that won the lower big prize opening, it is set to “1” as a value indicating that it has been detected. Is set to “0” as a value indicating that it is not detected. The bit of S1 is set to “1” as a value indicating that it has been detected when the game ball that has won a prize at the college winning port is detected by the top college winning prize switch 23A, and is detected when it is not detected. It is set to “0” as a value indicating that there is no data. In this way, specific bits of the switch-on buffer are assigned to specific big prize opening switches (upper big prize opening switch 23A and lower big prize opening switch 23B), and are updated according to whether or not a game ball is detected. The bits (S0 to S7) in FIG. 6B are bit strings that are collectively processed when the 8-bit CPU 103 executes various arithmetic processes such as load, store, logical product, and logical sum. Of S0 to S7, bits other than S0 and S1 are the lower big prize opening switch 23B and the upper big prize opening switch 23A among the switches connected to the game control microcomputer 100 via the switch circuit shown in FIG. It is assigned to a switch that detects game balls other than. When the number of switches connected to the game control microcomputer 100 is less than 8 which is the number of bits of the CPU 103, for example, a switch for detecting a game ball is used as a buffer indicating a detection result of a fraud prevention vibration sensor. You may use for uses other than assigning to. Thus, in correspondence with the fact that the number of variable winning devices (upper special variable winning ball device 7A and lower special variable winning ball device 7B) is smaller than the number of bits of CPU 103, the bit string that CPU 103 processes in one step is: The buffer for storing the detection results of the lower major prize opening switch 23B and the upper major prize opening switch 23A is used for different purposes. For this reason, the storage capacity of the buffer can be used effectively. The abnormal winning confirmation table will be described later.

  The game control timer setting unit 153 is provided with various timers used for controlling the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1. For example, the game control timer setting unit 153 stores data indicating timer values in each of a plurality of types of timers. The game control counter setting unit 154 is provided with a plurality of types of counters for counting the count values used for controlling the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1. For example, the game control counter setting unit 154 stores data indicating the count value in each of a plurality of types of counters. Here, the game control counter setting unit 154 may be provided with a random counter for the CPU 103 to count part or all of the game random numbers so that the software 103 can be updated by software. The game control buffer setting unit 155 is provided with various buffers that temporarily store data used for controlling the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1. For example, the game control buffer setting unit 155 stores data indicating buffer values in each of a plurality of types of buffers.

  The I / O 105 included in the game control microcomputer 100 shown in FIG. 2 has an input port for receiving various signals transmitted to the game control microcomputer 100, and various signals to the outside of the game control microcomputer 100. And an output port for transmission.

  The effect control board 12 includes an effect control CPU 120 that performs a control operation in accordance with a program, a ROM 121 that stores an effect control program, fixed data, and the like, a RAM 122 that provides a work area for the effect control CPU 120, and an image display device. 5, a display control unit 123 that executes processing for determining the control content of the display operation in FIG. 5, a random number circuit 124 that updates the numerical data indicating the random number value independently of the effect control CPU 120, and the I / O 125. And are installed.

  As an example, in the effect control board 12, when the effect control CPU 120 executes an effect control program read from the ROM 121, a process for controlling the effect operation by the effect electric component is executed. At this time, the effect control CPU 120 reads the fixed data from the ROM 121, the effect control CPU 120 writes the various data to the RAM 122 and temporarily stores the data, and the effect control CPU 120 stores the effect data in the RAM 122. Fluctuation data reading operation for reading out various fluctuation data temporarily stored, the reception control CPU 120 for receiving the input of various signals from the outside of the presentation control board 12 via the I / O 125, and the presentation control CPU 120 for I / O A transmission operation for outputting various signals to the outside of the effect control board 12 via O125 is also performed.

  The effect control CPU 120, the ROM 121, and the RAM 122 may be included in a one-chip effect control microcomputer mounted on the effect control board 12. In the effect control board 12, wiring for transmitting a video signal to the image display device 5, wiring for transmitting a sound effect signal as an information signal indicating sound number data to the sound control board 13, Wiring for transmitting an electrical decoration signal as an information signal indicating lamp data is connected to the lamp control board 14. Further, the effect control board 12 has wiring for transmitting an operation detection signal as an information signal indicating that a player's instruction operation (for example, pressing operation) to the operation button 30 has been detected from the operation detection unit 31. It is connected.

  On the effect control board 12, for example, the random number circuit 124 or the like counts the numerical data indicating various random values used for controlling the effect operation so as to be updatable. The random number used for controlling such a production operation is also called a production random number.

  In addition to the effect control program, the ROM 121 mounted on the effect control board 12 shown in FIG. 2 stores various data tables used for controlling the effect operation. For example, the ROM 121 includes a plurality of determination tables prepared for the effect control CPU 120 to perform various determinations, determinations, and settings, table data configuring the determination tables, pattern data configuring various effect control patterns, and the like. It is remembered. The RAM 122 mounted on the effect control board 12 stores various data used for controlling the effect operation.

  The display control unit 123 mounted on the effect control board 12 determines the control content of the display operation in the image display device 5 based on the display control command from the effect control CPU 120. For example, the display control unit 123 performs control for executing decorative display variable display and various effect displays by determining the switching timing of effect images to be displayed in the display area of the image display device 5. As an example, the display control unit 121 may include a VDP (Video Display Processor), a CGROM (Character Generator ROM), a VRAM (Video RAM), an LCD driving circuit, and the like. The VDP may be a graphics processing unit (GPU), a graphics controller LSI (GCL), or a microprocessor for image processing, more commonly referred to as a digital signal processor (DSP). The CGROM may be, for example, a non-rewritable semiconductor memory, a rewritable semiconductor memory such as a flash memory, or a non-volatile recording medium such as a magnetic memory or an optical memory. Any configuration may be used.

  The I / O 125 mounted on the effect control board 12 includes an input port for capturing various signals such as an effect control command transmitted from the main board 11 and the operation detection signal transmitted from the operation detection unit 31, for example. And an output port for transmitting various signals to the outside of the control board 12. For example, from the output port of the I / O 125, a video signal transmitted to the image display device 5, a command (sound effect signal) transmitted to the sound control board 13, and a command transmitted to the lamp control board 14 (Lighting signal) etc. are output.

  On the voice control board 13, for example, an input / output driver, a voice synthesis IC, a voice data ROM, an amplifier circuit, a volume, and the like are mounted. As an example, in the voice control board 13, the sound number data indicated in the sound effect signal transmitted from the effect control board 12 is input to the voice synthesis IC via the input / output driver. The voice synthesis IC generates voice and sound effects corresponding to the sound number data and outputs them to the amplifier circuit. The amplifier circuit outputs an audio signal obtained by amplifying the output level of the speech synthesis IC to a level corresponding to the volume set by the volume to the speakers 8L and 8R. The voice data ROM stores control data corresponding to the sound number data, and the voice synthesis IC reads out the control data corresponding to the sound number data to generate voice and sound effects. The data stored in the audio data ROM may be composed of data indicating the output mode of audio and sound effects in a predetermined period in time series.

  For example, an input / output driver and a lamp driver are mounted on the lamp control board 14. As an example, in the lamp control board 14, the electrical decoration signal transmitted from the effect control board 12 is input to the lamp driver via the input / output driver. The lamp driver amplifies the electric decoration signal and supplies it to the game effect lamp 9, the decoration LED, and the power saving notification LEDs 9L and 9R.

  Next, the operation (action) of the pachinko gaming machine 1 in this embodiment will be described.

  In the main board 11, when power supply from a predetermined power supply board is started, the game control microcomputer 100 is activated, and the CPU 103 executes a predetermined process as a game control main process. When the game control main process is started, the CPU 103 performs necessary initial settings after setting the interrupt disabled. In this initial setting, for example, the RAM 101 is cleared. Also, register setting of a CTC (counter / timer circuit) built in the game control microcomputer 100 is performed. Thereby, thereafter, an interrupt request signal is sent from the CTC to the CPU 103 every predetermined time (for example, 2 milliseconds), and the CPU 103 can periodically execute timer interrupt processing. When the initial setting is completed, an interrupt is permitted and then loop processing is started. In the game control main process, a process for returning the internal state of the pachinko gaming machine 1 to the state at the time of the previous power supply stop may be executed before entering the loop process.

  When the CPU 103 that has executed such a game control main process receives an interrupt request signal from the CTC and receives an interrupt request, the CPU 103 executes a game control timer interrupt process shown in the flowchart of FIG. When the game control timer interrupt processing shown in FIG. 6A is started, the CPU 103 first determines the state of detection signals input from various switches via the switch circuit 110 by executing predetermined switch processing. (Step S11). In S11, when the upper big prize opening switch in the switch-on buffer is in the on state, the corresponding bit (S1) is set to “1” and the lower big prize opening switch is in the on state. The corresponding bit (S0) is set to “1”. Subsequently, by executing predetermined main-side error processing, abnormality diagnosis of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is performed, and if necessary, a warning can be generated according to the diagnosis result (step S12). The process executed in step S12 includes a winning notification process (FIG. 23A). In the winning notification process, when one of the lower large winning port switch 23A and the upper large winning port switch 23B is turned on and the entry of a game ball to the lower or upper large winning port is detected, the detection is performed as the current game progress. It is determined whether it is normal or not, and if it is abnormal detection, abnormal error processing is executed. After that, by executing a predetermined information output process, for example, data such as jackpot information, start information, probability variation information supplied to a hall management computer installed outside the pachinko gaming machine 1 is output (steps). S13).

  Subsequent to the information output process, a game random number update process for updating at least a part of the game random numbers used on the main board 11 side by software is executed (step S14). Thereafter, the CPU 103 executes special symbol process processing (step S15). In the special symbol process, the value of the special symbol process flag provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 102 is updated according to the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1, and the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device Control of the display operation in 4B and the opening / closing operation setting of the large winning opening (upper large winning opening and lower large winning opening) in the upper special variable winning ball apparatus 7A and the lower special variable winning ball apparatus 7B are performed in a predetermined procedure. Therefore, various processes are selected and executed.

  Subsequent to the special symbol process, the CPU 103 executes a probability variation area solenoid control process for controlling the position of the probability variation area lid 72 and the validity / invalidity of the probability variation area (step S16A). In the probability changing area solenoid control processing, the CPU 103 determines that the value of the probability changing area solenoid control code set in a predetermined area (for example, the game control buffer setting unit 155) of the RAM 102 in the big hit gaming state is set to “1”. Based on this, the opening / closing control of the probability changing area lid and the switching control for valid / invalid of the probability changing area are executed. For example, opening / closing of the probability variation area lid and switching between valid / invalid of the probability variation area are executed based on the probability variation solenoid pattern table. In the probability variation solenoid pattern table, the timing for switching the opening / closing state of the probability variation region lid and the timing for switching the validity variation of the probability variation region are stored in association with the elapsed time (round timer value) from the start of the round in the round game. Any table can be used. Alternatively, in conjunction with the opening and closing of the lower major prize opening, which will be described later, when the lower major prize opening is in an open state, the probability variation area is also opened and the probability variation area is valid, while the lower major prize opening is closed. In this case, the probability variation region may be closed and the probability variation region may be invalidated. In the probability variation area solenoid control process, a usage pattern is selected from a plurality of probability variation solenoid pattern tables stored in the ROM 101 according to the big hit type and the number of rounds of the round game to be executed. Then, the probability variation area detection valid flag set in the predetermined area of the RAM 102 is updated based on the selected usage pattern. In addition, the probability change area solenoid buffer set in a predetermined area (for example, the game control buffer setting unit 155) of the RAM 102 is updated in accordance with the read value of the solenoid output designation data, thereby changing the probability according to the solenoid output designation data. The on / off control of the area lid solenoid 82C is controlled. That is, the position of the probability variation area lid 72 is controlled. The probability variation region solenoid buffer is an output buffer for outputting a control signal for designating ON / OFF to the solenoid 82C for the probability variation region lid, and according to the value stored in this buffer, FIG. In this command control process, a control signal is output to the solenoid 82C for the probability variation region lid.

  After executing the probability changing area solenoid control process, the CPU 103 transmits the control command from the main board 11 to the sub-side control board such as the effect control board 12 by executing the command control process (step S17). As an example, in the command control process, in response to the setting in the command transmission table specified by the value of the transmission command buffer provided in the game control buffer setting unit 155, among the output ports included in the I / O 105, effect control After setting the control data in the output port for transmitting the effect control command to the board 12, the predetermined control data is set in the output port of the effect control INT signal and the effect control INT signal is turned on for a predetermined time. By changing the state to the off state, the presentation control command can be transmitted based on the setting in the command transmission table. After executing the command control process, after setting the interrupt enabled state, the game control timer interrupt process is terminated.

  FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of processing executed in step S15 of FIG. 6A as the special symbol process. In this special symbol process, the CPU 103 first executes a start winning determination process (step S101). FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the start winning determination process executed in step S101.

  When the start winning determination process is started, the CPU 103 first determines the first start opening based on the detection signal from the first start opening switch 22A provided corresponding to the first start winning opening formed by the normal winning ball apparatus 6A. It is determined whether or not the switch 22A is on (step S201). At this time, if the first start port switch 22A is on (step S201; Yes), the first special figure holding memory number that is the holding memory number of the special figure game using the first special figure is a predetermined upper limit value. It is determined whether or not (for example, “4”) (step S202). At this time, if the CPU 103 can identify the first special figure reserved memory number by reading the first reserved memory number count value, which is the stored value of the first reserved memory number counter provided in the game control counter setting unit 154, for example. Good. When the number of first special figure reservation storage is not the upper limit value in step S202 (step S202; No), for example, the stored value of the start port buffer provided in the game control buffer setting unit 155 is set to “1” ( Step S203).

  When the first start-up switch 22A is OFF in step S201 (step S201; No), or when the first special figure reservation storage number reaches the upper limit value in step S202 (step S202; Yes), it is normal. It is determined whether or not the second start port switch 22B is on based on a detection signal from the second start port switch 22B provided corresponding to the second start winning port formed by the variable winning ball apparatus 6B ( Step S204). At this time, if the second start port switch 22B is ON (step S204; Yes), the second special figure holding memory number that is the holding memory number of the special figure game using the second special figure is a predetermined upper limit value. It is determined whether or not (for example, “4”) (step S205). At this time, if the CPU 103 can identify the second special figure reserved memory number by reading the second reserved memory number count value which is the stored value of the second reserved memory number counter provided in the game control counter setting unit 154, for example. Good. When the second special figure holding storage number is not the upper limit value in step S205 (step S205; No), for example, the stored value of the start port buffer provided in the game control buffer setting unit 155 is set to “2” ( Step S206).

  After either of the processes of steps S203 and S206 is executed, the pending storage number count value is updated by 1 according to the start port buffer value that is the stored value of the start port buffer (step S207). For example, when the starting port buffer value is “1”, the first reserved memory number count value is incremented by 1, while when the starting port buffer value is “2”, the second reserved memory number count value is incremented by one. Thus, the first reserved memory number count value is 1 when the game ball passes (enters) the first start winning opening and the first start condition corresponding to the special figure game using the first special figure is satisfied. Updated to increase. Further, the second reserved memory number count value is 1 when the game ball passes (enters) the second start winning opening and the second start condition corresponding to the special figure game using the second special figure is satisfied. Updated to increase. At this time, for example, the total reserved memory number count value, which is the stored value of the total reserved memory number counter provided in the game control counter setting unit 154, is updated to add 1 (step S208).

  After executing the processing of step S208, the CPU 103 determines the random number MR1 for determining the special figure display result and the jackpot type from the numerical data updated by the random counter of the random number circuit 104 or the game control counter setting unit 154. Numerical data indicating the random number value MR2 and the random number value MR3 for determining the variation pattern are extracted (step S209). The numerical data indicating each random value extracted in this way is stored as reserved data by being set at the head of the empty entry in the special figure storage unit corresponding to the start port buffer value (step S210). For example, when the start port buffer value is “1”, the hold data is set in the first special figure hold storage unit 151A, while when the start port buffer value is “2”, the hold data is held in the second special figure hold. It is set in the storage unit 151B. The numerical data indicating the random value MR3 for determining the variation pattern is not limited to those extracted when the game ball passes through the first start winning opening and the second starting winning opening, and the first special figure and the first figure It may be extracted when a special figure game using two special figures is started.

  Subsequent to the process of step S210, command transmission setting at the time of start winning is performed (step S211). For example, when the start port buffer value is “1”, a setting for transmitting a first start port winning designation command to the effect control board 12 is performed. On the other hand, when the starting port buffer value is “2”, a setting for transmitting the second starting port winning designation command to the effect control board 12 is performed. The first start opening winning designation command is an effect control command for designating that the first starting condition is established when the game ball passes (enters) the first start winning opening. The second start opening prize designation command is an effect control command that designates that the second start condition is established by the game ball passing (entering) the second start winning opening. In addition, transmission setting of a reserved memory number notification command for notifying the production control board 12 of the total reserved memory number may be performed. The start opening winning designation command and the reserved memory number notification command set in this way are obtained by executing the command control process of step S17 shown in FIG. 6A after the special symbol process process is completed, for example. 11 to the effect control board 12.

  After executing the process of step S211, it is determined whether the start port buffer value is “1” or “2” (step S212). At this time, if the start port buffer value is “1” (step S212; “1”), the start port buffer is cleared and the stored value is initialized to “0” (step S213), and then step S204. Proceed to the process. On the other hand, when the starting port buffer value is “2” (step S212; “2”), the starting port buffer is cleared and its stored value is initialized to “0” (step S214). The start winning determination process is terminated.

  After executing the start winning determination process in step S101 shown in FIG. 7, the CPU 103 performs one of the processes in steps S110 to S117 according to the value of the special figure process flag provided in the game control flag setting unit 152. Select and execute.

  The special symbol normal process in step S110 is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is “0”. In this special symbol normal processing, the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol are based on the presence / absence of reserved data stored in the first special symbol reservation storage unit 151A and the second special diagram reservation storage unit 151B. It is determined whether or not to start the special game using the display device 4B. In the special symbol normal process, whether or not the variable symbol display result of the special symbol or the decorative symbol is set to “big hit” based on the numerical data indicating the random value MR1 for determining the special symbol display result, It is determined (predetermined) whether the variable display result is derived and displayed. Further, in the special symbol normal process, in response to the variable display result of the special symbol in the special symbol game, the confirmed special symbol (the big hit symbol or the like in the special symbol game by the first special symbol display device 4A or the second special symbol display device 4B). One of the lost symbols) is set. In the special symbol normal process, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to “1” when the variable display result of the special symbol or the decorative symbol is determined in advance.

  The variation pattern setting process in step S111 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is “1”. This variation pattern setting process includes a process of determining a variation pattern as one of a plurality of types based on a result of prior determination as to whether or not the variable display result is “big hit”. As shown in FIG. 4, the variable display time for special symbols and decorative symbols is set in advance corresponding to the variation pattern. Accordingly, by determining the variation pattern in the variation pattern setting process, the variable display time from the start of variable display of the special symbol to the deriving of the definite special symbol resulting in the variable display result is determined. In addition, the variation pattern setting process may include a process of determining whether or not the variable display mode of the decorative symbol is “reach” when the variable display result is “losing”. Alternatively, even if it is determined whether or not the variable display mode of the decorative symbol is set to “reach” by determining the fluctuation pattern when the variable display result is “lost” in the fluctuation pattern setting process at a predetermined ratio. Good. In addition, the variation pattern setting process further includes a process of setting a small hit flag based on a result of prior determination as to whether or not the variable display result is “big hit”. Furthermore, the variation pattern setting process may include a process of performing setting for starting the variation of the special symbol in the first special symbol display device 4A or the second special symbol display device 4B. When the variation pattern setting process is executed, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “2”.

  The special symbol variation process in step S112 is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is “2”. This special symbol variation process includes a process for setting the special symbol to be varied in the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B, and an elapsed time after the special symbol starts to vary. It includes processing to measure When the elapsed time since the start of the special symbol variation reaches the special symbol variation time, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to “3”.

  The special symbol stop process in step S113 is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is “3”. In the special symbol stop process, the first special symbol display device 4A or the second special symbol display device 4B stops the change of the special symbol, and the fixed special symbol which is the variable symbol display result is stopped and displayed. A process for setting is included. Then, it is determined whether or not the jackpot flag provided in the game control flag setting unit 152 is turned on. When the jackpot flag is turned on, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “4”. Is done. On the other hand, when the big hit flag is off, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “0”.

  The big hit release pre-processing in step S114 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is “4”. The pre-opening process for the big hit is based on the fact that the variable display result is "big hit", etc. It includes a process for setting for opening. In the present embodiment, in the pre-hit opening pre-processing, it is determined whether or not the round game to be started is a probability variable opening round in which the lower big prize opening is in an open state. Further included is a process of setting the probability variation region solenoid control code to 1 as common control data for instructing the start of the position control of the probability variation region lid 72 and the start of the validity / invalidity control of the probability variation region. In addition, a process for updating the solenoid output data table according to the special winning opening to be opened is further included. When the big hit release pre-processing is executed, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “5”.

  The big hit release processing in step S115 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is "5". In this big hit opening process, a process of measuring an elapsed time since the upper prize winning opening or the lower prize winning opening is in an open state, the measured elapsed time, the upper prize winning switch 23A or the lower prize winning switch 23B. And a process for determining whether it is time to return the upper prize winning opening or the lower prize winning opening from the open state to the closed state based on the number of game balls detected by the above. In the big hit opening process, the lower big prize opening detection process is further executed in the probability variation open round. Note that the lower special winning opening detection process is based on the number of game balls won in the lower special variable winning ball device 7B and the number of game balls discharged from the lower special variable winning ball device 7B. Processing for counting game balls in the game, processing for determining whether or not the passage of the game ball to the probability variation region is detected, and setting the probability variation confirmation flag when passage of the probability variation region is detected when the probability variation region is valid Processing. When the upper prize winning opening or the lower prize winning opening is returned to the closed state, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “6”. In this embodiment, when the round game is ended, regardless of which of the upper university prize opening and the lower university prize opening, the upper university prize opening is closed, and the lower university prize opening And the process of making the closed state. For this reason, it is not necessary to perform processing for determining which of the upper prize winning opening and the lower prize winning opening is to be closed. In addition, it is easy to change the design because it is only necessary to delete or add the process for making the closed state, whether the number of large winning prizes to be used is reduced or increased.

  The big hit release post-processing in step S116 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is “6”. This post-hit opening process includes a process of determining whether or not the number of round games executed with the upper prize opening or the lower prize opening opened has reached a predetermined upper limit, or the upper limit has not been reached. In this case, a process of waiting until the next round game is started is included. In the present embodiment, in the post-hit opening post-processing, the above-described lower big prize opening detection processing is further executed in the probability variation open round. Further, in the post-hit opening post-processing, the control after the running round is executed based on the number of game balls in the lower special variable winning ball device 7B counted by the big winning opening detection process (the round currently being executed is the last). In the case of the second round, a process for allowing the end of the big hit gaming state and the next round if it is not the last round is further included. When the next round game is started, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “4”, while when the number of executions of the round game reaches the upper limit number, the value of the special figure process flag is “7”. Is updated.

  The big hit end process in step S117 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is “7”. In the jackpot end process, a waiting time corresponding to a period in which an ending effect as an effect operation for notifying the end of the jackpot game state is executed by an effect device such as the image display device 5, the speakers 8L and 8R, the game effect lamp 9 or the like. Processing that waits until time elapses, processing that performs various settings for controlling to the probability variation state and the time-short state corresponding to success or failure of the probability variation control condition, and the like are included. Then, when the setting for controlling to the probability change state or the time reduction state is performed, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “0”.

  FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the process executed in step S110 of FIG. 7 as the special symbol normal process. In the special symbol normal process shown in FIG. 9, the CPU 103 first determines whether or not the second special figure holding storage number is “0” (step S231). The second special figure reserved memory number is the reserved memory number of the special figure game using the second special figure by the second special symbol display device 4B. For example, in the process of step S231, the second reserved storage number count value stored in the game control counter setting unit 154 may be read and it may be determined whether or not the read value is “0”.

  When the second special figure reservation storage number is other than “0” in step S231 (step S231; No), the second special figure reservation storage unit 151B stores the correspondence corresponding to the reservation number “1”. As data, numerical data indicating the random number value MR1 for determining the special figure display result, the random value MR2 for determining the big hit type, and the random value MR3 for determining the variation pattern are read out (step S232). The numerical data read at this time may be temporarily stored, for example, in a random number buffer for variation.

  Subsequent to the processing of step S232, for example, by subtracting and updating the second reserved memory number count value by 1, etc., the second special figure reserved memory number is updated by 1 and the second special figure reserved memory is also updated. The hold data indicating the random number values MR1 to MR3 stored in the entries lower than the hold number “1” (for example, entries corresponding to the hold numbers “2” to “4”) are shifted upward by one entry in the unit 151B. (Step S233). Further, in the process of step S233, the game control counter setting unit 154 may update the total pending storage number count value stored in the total pending storage number counter by one. At this time, the fluctuation special figure designation buffer value which is the stored value of the fluctuation special figure designation buffer is updated to “2” (step S234).

  When the second special figure reserved memory number is “0” in step S231 (step S231; Yes), it is determined whether or not the first special figure reserved memory number is “0” (step S235). The first special figure reserved memory number is the reserved memory number of the special figure game using the first special figure by the first special symbol display device 4A. For example, in the process of step S235, the game control counter setting unit 154 reads the first reserved memory number count value stored in the first reserved memory number counter, and determines whether or not the read value is “0”. That's fine. Thus, the process of step S235 is executed when it is determined in step S231 that the second special figure reserved memory number is “0”, and the first special figure reserved memory number is “0”. It is determined whether or not. Thereby, execution of the special figure game using the second special figure is started in preference to the special figure game using the first special figure.

  When the first special figure reservation storage number is other than “0” in step S235 (step S235; No), the first special figure reservation storage unit 151A stores the storage corresponding to the reservation number “1”. As the data, numerical data indicating the random number value MR1 for determining the special figure display result, the random value MR2 for determining the jackpot type, and the random value MR3 for determining the variation pattern are read out (step S236). The numerical data read at this time may be temporarily stored, for example, in a random number buffer for variation.

  Subsequent to the process of step S236, for example, by updating the first reserved memory number count value by subtracting 1 and updating the first special figure reserved memory number, the first special figure reserved memory is updated. The hold data indicating the random number values MR1 to MR3 stored in the entry lower than the hold number “1” (for example, the entries corresponding to the hold numbers “2” to “4”) in the unit 151A is shifted upward by one entry. (Step S237). Further, in the process of step S237, the game control counter setting unit 154 may update the total pending storage number count value stored in the total pending storage number counter by one. At this time, the variable special figure designation buffer value is updated to “1” (step S238).

  After executing one of the processes of steps S234 and S238, it is determined whether the special figure display result, which is the variable symbol display result, is “big hit”, “small hit”, or “losing” (step). S239). As an example, in the process of step S239, a special figure display result determination table prepared by storing in a predetermined area of the ROM 101 in advance is selected and set as a use table for determining the special figure display result. In the special figure display result determination table, a numerical value (determined value) to be compared with the random number MR1 for determining the special figure display result is determined according to whether or not the probability change state in which the probability change control is performed. May be assigned to the determination result of “big hit”, “small hit”, or “losing”. The CPU 103 may determine the special figure display result by referring to the special figure display result determination table based on the numerical data indicating the random number value MR1 for determining the special figure display result read from the variation random number buffer.

  FIG. 10A shows an example of determination in the process of step S239. In this determination example, the determination ratio for determining whether or not the special figure display result is “big hit” is varied depending on the presence or absence of probability variation control in the probability variation state. More specifically, when probability variation control is performed in the probability variation state, the special figure display result is determined to be “big hit” at a higher rate than when probability variation control is not performed in the normal state. Therefore, in the probability variation state in which the probability variation control is performed, the special figure display result is more likely to be a “hit” and more likely to be in the jackpot gaming state than when the probability variation control is not performed in the normal state. In other words, the player is more advantageous to the player than the normal state when in the state of probability change in which probability change control is performed. In this embodiment, when the current gaming state is a normal state in which probability variation control is not performed, “small hit” is obtained as a variable display result at a predetermined rate (2/400 in the example of FIG. 10A). Is predetermined. On the other hand, when the current gaming state is a probability variation state in which probability variation control is performed, “small hit” is not determined as the variable display result.

  Thereafter, it is determined whether or not the special figure display result determined in step S239 is “big hit” (step S240). When the special figure display result is determined to be “big hit” (step S240; Yes), for example, the big hit flag provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 102 such as the game control flag setting unit 152 is set to the on state (step S241). . Further, the big hit type is determined to be one of a plurality of types (step S242). As an example, in the process of step S242, a jackpot type determination table prepared by storing in a predetermined area of the ROM 101 in advance is selected and set in a use table for determining the jackpot type. In the jackpot type determination table, the numerical value (decision value) compared with the random number MR2 for determining the jackpot type according to the fluctuation special figure designation buffer value or the like is used as the determination result as to whether the jackpot type is a plurality of types. As long as it is assigned. The CPU 103 may determine the jackpot type by referring to the jackpot type determination table based on the numerical data indicating the jackpot type determination random value MR2 read from the variation random number buffer.

  FIG. 10B shows an example of determination in the process of step S242. In this determination example, the jackpot type is determined depending on whether the special symbol (variation special symbol) variably displayed in the special symbol game for which the start condition is satisfied is the first special diagram or the second special diagram. The ratio is different. Here, when the variable special symbol designation buffer value is “1”, the special special symbol game start condition by the first special symbol display device 4A is established, and the variable special symbol becomes the first special symbol. On the other hand, when the variable special symbol designation buffer value is “2”, the start condition of the special graphic game by the second special symbol display device 4B is established, and the variable special symbol becomes the second special symbol. In the determination example shown in FIG. 10B, when the fluctuation special chart is the first special figure, the big hit type is determined as one of “first big hit”, “second big hit”, or “third big hit”. Is done. On the other hand, when the fluctuation special chart is the second special chart, the big hit type is determined only to “second big hit”. That is, the big hit types are determined as “first big hit” and “third big hit” only when the variation special chart is the first special figure. In this manner, different jackpot types may be determined according to special symbols variably displayed in the special figure game. Further, the ratio at which the big hit type is determined as “second big hit” is higher when the fluctuation special chart is the second special figure than when the fluctuation special figure is the first special figure. Thus, the predetermined jackpot type may be determined at a different rate depending on the special symbol variably displayed in the special game.

  In this embodiment, a round game of 16 rounds is executed regardless of the type of jackpot, and a predetermined probability change open round in the jackpot game state (14th round and “16” in which the number of round games is “14”). At the 16th round, the lower prize winning opening is opened. In the normally open lands (1st to 13th and 15th rounds), the upper prize winning opening is set to the open state. Here, when the big hit type is “second big hit” than when the big hit type is “first big hit”, the big hit types are “first big hit” and “ The upper limit time for which the lower big prize opening is in the open state is longer than in the case of “3 big hits”, and the probability changing control condition for entering the probability changing state after the big hit gaming state is completed is easily satisfied. By determining the jackpot type at the determination rate as shown in FIG. 10B, when the variation special chart is the second special chart, the jackpot gaming state is higher at the ratio than when the first special chart is used. A probability variation control condition for establishing a probability variation state after completion is established. That is, when the special figure display result is “hit” in the special figure game using the second special figure based on the game ball passing (entering) through the second starting prize opening, The probability variation control condition is more easily established than in the case where the special figure display result is “big hit” in the special figure game using the first special figure based on the passage (ingress) of the game ball.

  In this embodiment, when the big hit type is “first big hit”, the upper limit time for opening the lower big prize opening is as short as 52 milliseconds. . Therefore, the rate at which the probability variation control condition is satisfied is also very low. On the other hand, in the case of “second big hit” (and “third big hit”), the upper limit time is about 27 seconds (27 seconds + 52 milliseconds), so there is a high probability that a game ball will enter the lower big prize opening. Therefore, the rate at which the probability variation control condition is satisfied is also high. In the present embodiment, when the probability hit state is “big hit”, the ratio of the big hit type being “second big hit” is high, and therefore the proportion of the special gaming state controlled from the normal gaming state to the probability changing state On the other hand, it is possible to make a setting such that the “big hit” continues at a high rate (the so-called continuous change state) once it is controlled to be in a probable change state (so-called continuous change state). As for “third big hit”, the probability that the probability variation control condition is satisfied is higher than “first big hit” in the same way as “second big hit”, but in the first to thirteenth and sixteenth round games, the top big prize is won. Since the upper limit time for the mouth to be in the open state is short (52 milliseconds), the number of prize balls to be paid out based on the “big hit” is reduced.

  Specifically, in the special figure game using the first special figure, when the variable display result is “big hit”, the first big hit is given at a predetermined ratio (1/2). In the big hit gaming state controlled based on the “big hit”, the probability variation control condition (also referred to as a special condition) is not satisfied, and after the big hit gaming state is ended, the state shifts to a normal gaming state that is not controlled in the positive variation state. On the other hand, if the special game using the first special figure results in “second big hit” or “third big hit”, the probability variation control condition (special condition) is high in the big hit gaming state controlled based on the “big hit”. Is also established, and after the big hit gaming state is completed, it is controlled to a special gaming state that is controlled to a probability variation state. In the special game state, the top prize winning opening is controlled to the open state, and the special figure game using the second special figure can be started. In the special figure game using the second special figure, when the variable display result is “big hit”, the second big hit is always made, so that the probability change state is again controlled after the big hit gaming state with high probability. For this reason, the “big hit” and the probability variation state continue continuously until the probability variation end condition is satisfied until all of the special game of the predetermined number of times (for example, 50 times) become “losing” in the probability variation state. According to such a configuration, while reducing the ratio (so-called expectation level that is surely changed at the first hit) of the first special figure game that is played in the normal gaming state, the variable display result of the jackpot type is “second jackpot”. Once the variable display result of “second big hit” is derived, the rate at which the probability variation state and “big hit” continue continues to increase. Therefore, it is possible to provide an exciting gaming experience with sharpness. Further, in the example of FIG. 10B, since the “third big hit” with a small number of winning balls to be paid out as a big hit type is not determined once it is controlled to be in a probable change state, the positive change is not made without raising the player. A variety of gaming experiences can be provided regarding whether or not the state is controlled.

  After executing the process of step S242, the big hit type is stored (step S243). In the process of step S243, for example, the big hit type may be stored by storing data indicating the determination result of the big hit type in a predetermined area of the RAM 102 such as the big hit type buffer provided in the game control buffer setting unit 155.

  When it is determined in step S241 that it is not “big hit” (step S241; No), it is determined whether or not the special figure display result is “small hit” (step S246). If it is determined that the “small hit” is determined (step S246; Yes), the small hit flag provided in the RAM 102 is set to an on state (step S247).

  If it is determined in step S246 that it is not “small hit” (step S246; No), or after performing any of the processes in steps S243 and S247, whether to control to the big hit gaming state or the small hit gaming state? A determined special symbol is set in accordance with the result of the prior determination as to whether or not, and further, the determination result of the jackpot type when the jackpot game state is set (step S248). As an example, when it is determined in step S246 that the special figure display result is not “small hit”, a lost symbol is obtained corresponding to the pre-determined result indicating that the special figure display result is “lost”. The special symbol indicating the symbol “−” is set as the confirmed special symbol. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S246 that the special figure display result is “small hit”, the small figure corresponding to the pre-determined result indicating that the special figure display result is “small hit”. The special symbol indicating the number “2” as the symbol is set as the confirmed special symbol. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S240 that the special figure display result is “big hit”, any of the special symbols predetermined as a plurality of types of big hit symbols is determined according to the determination result of the big hit type in step S242. Can be determined as a confirmed special symbol. In this embodiment, when the jackpot type is “first jackpot”, the symbol “5” or “9” is used. When the jackpot type is “second jackpot”, the symbol “7” is used, In the case of “big hit”, the special symbol indicating the symbol “3” is set as the final symbol.

  After executing the process of step S244, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “1” (step S245), and then the special symbol normal process is terminated. When the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “1” in step S245, when the next timer interrupt occurs, the variation pattern setting process in step S111 shown in FIG. 7 is executed.

  In step S235, when the number of reserved memories of the special figure game using the first special figure is “0” (step S235; Yes), after performing a predetermined demonstration display setting (step S246), the special symbol is set. Normal processing ends. In this demonstration display setting, for example, an effect control command (customer waiting demo designation command) for designating a demonstration display (demonstration screen display) by displaying a predetermined effect image on the image display device 5 is effect control from the main board 11. It is determined whether or not transmission to the substrate 12 has been completed. At this time, if the transmission has been completed, the demonstration display setting is ended as it is. On the other hand, if it has not been transmitted, the setting for transmitting the customer waiting demonstration designation command is performed, and then the demonstration display setting is terminated.

  FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of the process executed in step S113 of FIG. 7 as the special symbol stop process. In the special symbol stop process shown in FIG. 11, the CPU 103 first determines whether or not a special figure fixed display flag provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 102 such as the game control flag setting unit 152 is on (step S261). ). The special figure fixed display flag is set to an on state by the process of step S265 described later in response to the fixed special symbol that becomes the variable display result (special graphic display result) in the special figure game being derived and displayed. .

  When the special figure fixed display flag is OFF in step S261 (step S261; No), settings for deriving and displaying the fixed special symbol are performed (step S262). In addition, a command transmission setting at the time of symbol determination is performed (step S263). For example, a setting for transmitting an effect control command prepared in advance as a symbol confirmation command to the effect control board 12 is performed. Further, a predetermined time (for example, 1000 milliseconds) is set as the special figure confirmation display time (step S264). Then, after the special figure confirmation display flag is set to the on state (step S265), the special symbol stop process is terminated. At this time, since the special symbol process flag is not updated, the special symbol stop process is executed again when the next timer interrupt occurs.

  When the special figure confirmation display flag is on in step S261 (step S261; Yes), it is determined whether or not the special figure confirmation display time has elapsed (step S266). At this time, if the special figure confirmation display time has not elapsed (step S266; No), the special symbol stop process is terminated. Here, since the special figure process flag is not updated, the special symbol stop process is executed again when the next timer interruption occurs, and the special figure determination display time is awaited.

  If the special figure confirmation display time has elapsed in step S266 (step S266; Yes), the special figure confirmation display flag is cleared and turned off (step S267), and then whether or not the big hit flag is on. Is determined (step S268). When the big hit flag is on (step S268; Yes), a predetermined time is set as a big hit start production waiting time (step S269). At this time, command transmission setting at the time of starting the big hit is performed (step S270). Further, for example, a big hit start flag provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 102 such as the game control flag setting unit 152 is set to an on state (step S271). Subsequently, a setting for ending the probability variation control is performed (step S272). For example, as the process of step S272, the process of clearing the probability change flag provided in the game control flag setting unit 152 or the like to turn off, or the number of times of probability change for counting the remaining number of times for the special game in which the probability change control is performed A process for clearing the counter may be executed.

  The probability variation counter is provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 102, for example, the game control counter setting unit 154, and counts corresponding to the upper limit number of special figure games in which probability variation control is performed when the probability variation state is reached after the big hit gaming state ends. An initial value (for example, “50”) may be set.

  After executing the process of step S272, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “4” (step S273), and the special symbol stop process is terminated. When the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “4”, when the next timer interrupt occurs, the big hit release pre-processing in step S114 shown in FIG. 7 is executed.

  If the big hit flag is off in step S268 (step S268; No), it is determined whether the small hit flag is on (step S274). Then, when the small hit flag is on (step S274; Yes), a small hit start time production waiting time is set (step S275). For example, in the process of step S275, a timer initial value determined in advance corresponding to the small hit start presentation waiting time may be set in the game control process timer. Subsequently, a setting for transmitting an effect control command that becomes a small hit start specifying command by setting the EXT data among the hit start specifying commands is performed for transmission from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12 (step S276). Further, the small hit flag is cleared and turned off (step S277). Thereafter, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “8”, which is a value corresponding to the small hit release pre-processing (step S278).

  When the small hit flag is OFF in step S291 (step S274; No), the value of the special figure process flag is initialized to “0” (step S279). After performing either of the processes of steps S278 and S279, it is determined whether or not the probability variation control is to be ended (step S280). As an example, in the process of step S280, when the probability variation count value that is the stored value of the probability variation counter is other than “0”, the count value is updated by subtracting 1 or the like. Then, it is determined whether or not the updated count value of the number of probability changes matches a predetermined probability change end determination value (eg, “0”). At this time, if it matches the probability variation end determination value, the probability variation control may be terminated by clearing a predetermined probability variation flag or the like. On the other hand, if it does not coincide with the probability variation end determination value, the state of the probability variation flag may be maintained, and the process of step S280 may be terminated.

  After performing the process of step S280, after setting for transmitting a game state designation command from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12 (step S281), the special symbol stop process is terminated. When the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “0”, the special symbol normal process of step S110 shown in FIG. 7 is executed when the next timer interrupt occurs.

  FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an example of processing executed in step S114 of FIG. 7 as the big hit release pre-processing. In the big hit release pre-processing shown in FIG. 12, the CPU 103 first determines whether or not the big hit start flag is on (step S291). The big hit start flag is set to the on state by the process of step S271 shown in FIG. 11 in response to the start of the big hit gaming state.

  When the big hit start flag is ON in step S291 (step S291; Yes), it is determined whether or not the big hit start production waiting time has elapsed (step S292). At this time, if the big hit start production waiting time has not elapsed (step S292; No), the big hit opening pre-processing is terminated. Here, since the special figure process flag is not updated, the big hit release pre-processing is executed again when the next timer interruption occurs, and the process waits until the big hit start presentation waiting time elapses.

  When the big hit start performance waiting time has elapsed in step S292 (step S292; Yes), the big hit start flag is cleared and turned off as processing for starting the first round game in the big hit gaming state. Later (step S293), for example, “1” is set as a count initial value corresponding to the number of executions of the round game in a round counter provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 102 such as the game control counter setting unit 154 (step S294).

  When the big hit start flag is OFF in step S291 (step S291; No), after executing the process of step S294, the special symbols that have fluctuated in the variable display that is the big hit are the first special symbol and the second special symbol. Whether the symbol is a symbol and the jackpot symbol derived as a variable display result are read (step S295). As an example, referring to the game control flag setting unit 152 or the game control buffer setting unit 155 of the RAM 102, the value of the variation special figure designation buffer set in step S234 or S238 of FIG. 9 and the fixed special determined in S248 What is necessary is just to read the buffer value which shows a design.

  Next, the CPU 103 sets the big hit release pattern table according to whether the big hit type is “first big hit”, “second big hit”, or “third big hit” based on the data read out in step S295 ( Step S297). As an example, the jackpot type may be determined. First, when the value of the variable special symbol designation buffer is “1”, the first special symbol is determined to be a variable special symbol. Then, the jackpot type is determined by referring to the jackpot type determination table selected in step S243 in FIG. 9 and determining the jackpot type according to the varying special symbol and the confirmed special symbol. In the example of FIG. 11 (B), when the variable special symbol is the first special symbol and the big hit symbol is “7”, “second big hit”, when “5” or “9” is “ When it is “first big hit” or “3”, it is “third big hit”. On the other hand, when the variable special symbol is the first special symbol, it is the “second big hit” regardless of the big hit symbol.

  In step S297, when the CPU 103 determines that the big hit type is “first big hit”, for example, the first big hit release pattern table of FIG. 13A is displayed in a predetermined area of the RAM 102 such as the game control buffer setting unit 155. Set as an open pattern table. On the other hand, when it is determined that it is “second big hit”, the second big hit release pattern table of FIG. 13B is set as the use release pattern table. If it is determined that the game is a “third big hit”, the second big hit release pattern table of FIG. 13C is set as the use open pattern table. For example, as shown in FIGS. 13A to 13C, the opening pattern table designates the number of rounds and the big winning opening to be opened in the round as information on each round game executed in the big hit gaming state. And an opening pattern (large winning opening opening pattern) for controlling the solenoids (the solenoid 82A for the upper winning opening door and the solenoid 82B for the lower winning opening door) to open and close the winning opening at an appropriate timing. Information to specify the table), information indicating the maximum opening time of the special winning opening in that round, and the operating time of the special winning opening for that round (from the start of the round game until the final closing of the special winning entrance door in that round) Any table that stores information indicating (time) in association with each other may be used.

  As shown in FIGS. 13A to 13C, in this embodiment, the round count value is any one of “1” to “13” and “15” (normally open round), and “14 ”Or“ 16 ”(probability opening round), the big winning opening to be opened is different from the upper opening time for the big winning opening. In the normal open round (upper open round), when the big hit type is “first big hit” or “second big hit”, the upper big prize opening is opened up to 20 seconds. Therefore, in both cases of the first and second big hits, the same amount of prize balls are paid out in the normal open round. On the other hand, when the big hit type is “third big hit”, the upper prize winning opening is opened with a short time of 52 milliseconds as an upper limit. Therefore, in the case of the third big hit, the payout of prize balls in the normal open round is small (or substantially absent). For the probable opening round, when the big hit type is “first big hit”, the upper limit for opening the big prize opening is set to an extremely short time (52 milliseconds), and the game ball passes through the lower big prize opening (entrance) Very unlikely. On the other hand, when the big hit type is “second big hit” or “third big hit”, the round count value is set to about 27 seconds (27 seconds + 52 milliseconds). Therefore, when the big hit type is “second big hit” or “third big hit”, the payout of the winning ball in the probability variation round is more than the first big hit, and the game ball passes through the lower big winning opening (entry) ), And the probability variation control condition for entering the probability variation state after the end of the big hit gaming state is likely to be satisfied.

  As shown in FIGS. 14A to 14D, the big winning opening opening pattern table is alternately set as one or a plurality of rows (records) such as the time for controlling the opening of the big winning opening and the time for controlling the closing. It is a table. The record number corresponds to the order in which each record is used. While using a record whose record name includes “open time”, the big prize opening is opened. On the other hand, the prize winning opening is closed while the record including the “closing time” is being used. The usage time indicates the upper limit time for using the record.

  Next, the CPU 103 reads, for example, a round counter value indicating the number of round games to be started from a round counter provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 102 such as the game control counter setting unit 154 (step S299). Then, based on the use release pattern table set in step S297 and the read round counter value, a special winning opening that is opened in the round game in the round game to be started is given to the upper special variable winning ball apparatus 7A. Either the formed upper prize winning opening or the lower extra winning opening formed in the lower special variable winning ball apparatus 7B is determined (step S300). As shown in FIGS. 13A to 13C, when the round count value is any one of “1” to “13” and “15” (when the round is normally open), It is determined to execute a round game that is in an open state (round game of the upper open round). On the other hand, when the round count value is “14” or “16” (when it is a probability variation open round), it is determined to execute a round game in which the lower major winning opening is opened. Therefore, when the number of round games to be executed is “14” or “16” as the specific number of times, a round game (a round game in the lower open round) with the lower big prize opening opened is executed. The variable winning ball device 7B is in a first state that is advantageous to the player.

  A detection valid switch for effectively detecting a game ball may be set in accordance with the determination of the big winning opening to be opened by the process of step S300. For example, when the round count value is any one of “1” to “13” and “15”, the game ball is detected by the top college prize opening switch 23A in conjunction with the top college prize opening being opened. To enable. On the other hand, when the round count value is “14” or “16”, the detection of the game ball by the lower large prize opening switch 23B is made effective in conjunction with the lower big prize opening being opened.

  Subsequent to the processing in step S300, the CPU 103 refers to the round counter value to determine whether or not the started round game is the first round game executed for the first time in this jackpot game state (step S300). S300A). When the value of the round counter is “1”, it is determined that the game is a round game of the first round (step S300A; Yes), and the value corresponding to the open big prize opening of the first round is displayed in the abnormal winning confirmation table. Is set (step S300B). The abnormal winning confirmation table is used to determine whether or not the winning at the upper prize winning opening and the lower prize winning opening detected in each round game stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 102 is abnormal. Bits to be used as flags corresponding to at least the upper prize winning switch 23A and the lower prize winning switch 23B are assigned to the abnormal winning confirmation table (FIG. 16). In this embodiment, “B0” in the abnormal winning confirmation table is assigned as a flag for the lower prize winning switch 23B, and “B1” is assigned as a flag for the upper prize winning switch 23A. The abnormal winning confirmation table is updated in step S300B and step S573 in FIG. When an upper open round in which the upper big prize opening changes to an open state is started, the flag of the lower big prize opening switch 23B is set, the value of “B0” becomes “1”, and the upper big prize opening switch 23A The flag is cleared and the value of “B1” becomes “0”. On the other hand, when the lower open round in which the lower big prize opening changes to the open state is started, the flag of the lower big prize opening switch 23B is cleared and the value of “B0” becomes “0”, and the upper big prize opening switch The 23A flag is set and the value of “B1” becomes “1”.

  If it is determined in step S300A that it is not the first round (step S300A; No), or after the processing in step S300B is completed, the CPU 103 reads out the stored data of the big hit type from, for example, the big hit type buffer and the round counter value and the big hit The special winning opening operating time corresponding to the type is determined (step S301). The big winning opening operating time is the solenoid for changing the upper or lower winning opening from the start of the round game to the open state and the closed state in each round game executed in the big hit gaming state. This is the time for executing the control, and coincides with the maximum duration of the round game that does not include the input / output matching wait state and the input / output error state. The maximum run time of the round game in the narrow sense is from the start to the end of the big prize opening operating time. The round game currently being executed is terminated when the maximum number of game balls has entered the special variable winning device in addition to the end of the big winning opening operating time. In addition, the big winning opening operating time of the upper opening round is expressed as the upper winning opening operating time, and the large winning opening operating time of the lower opening round is expressed as the lower winning opening operating time. The special winning opening operating time is an upper limit time for executing the control (and the control for temporarily closing the special winning opening) by driving the special winning opening door by the solenoid and opening the special winning opening.

  After the processing of step S301 is executed, opening control is performed to change the winning prize opening (upper winning prize opening or lower winning prize opening) from the closed state to the opened state (steps S301A and S302). At this time, setting (opening control) for transmitting a drive signal to either of the solenoids 82A and 82B is performed according to the big winning opening to be opened determined by the process of step S300. In this embodiment, as the opening control, the value of the solenoid output data table of FIG. 15 is set to a value corresponding to whether the large winning opening to be opened is the upper winning opening or the lower winning opening (step S301A). In this way, the special variable winning ball device controlled to the open state among the lower large winning port (lower special variable winning ball device 7B) and the upper large winning port (upper special variable winning ball device 7A) is in the valid state. And the other special variable winning ball devices are controlled to be disabled. Each bit of the solenoid output data table includes a plurality of solenoids (a solenoid 81 for an ordinary electric accessory, a solenoid 82A for a top large prize opening door, a solenoid 82B for a bottom large prize opening door, and a solenoid 82C for a probability changing area cover. Etc.) is used as a flag indicating whether or not to transmit a control signal. As shown in FIG. 15, the bit D0 is the solenoid 82C for the probability variation area lid, the bit D1 is the solenoid 82A for the upper prize opening door, and the bit D2 is the solenoid 82B, D3 for the lower prize opening door. Is a flag corresponding to the solenoid 81 for an ordinary electric accessory. If each flag is in the set state (value is “1”), a driving signal is transmitted to the corresponding solenoid, and the accessory, door, lid, etc. are driven, and the state can be changed to the open state. On the other hand, if the flag is clear (value is “0”), the drive signal is not transmitted to the corresponding solenoid, and the accessory, door, lid, etc. are not driven and are kept closed. That is, the bit value of D0 is information indicating the open / closed state of the probability variation area lid. The bit value of D1 is information indicating the open / closed state of the top prize winning opening. The bit value of D2 is information indicating the open / closed state of the lower major prize opening. The bit value of D3 is information indicating the open / closed state of the ordinary electric accessory (second start winning opening). When step S301A is completed, the CPU 103 sets, as a use pattern, a big winning opening opening pattern table corresponding to the type of jackpot and the number of rounds to be started among the plurality of big winning opening opening pattern tables stored in the ROM 102 ( Step S302).

  As an example, when the upper open round (the 1st to 13th and 15th rounds) is started, on the condition that the upper university winning opening operation time starts, the opening for making the upper winning opening open As a control, D1 is set to a set state (value is “1”) (step S301A). In the top opening rounds (1st to 13th and 15th rounds), when the jackpot type is “first jackpot” or “second jackpot”, the winning prize pattern table A (FIG. 14A) is the third In the case of a big win, a special winning opening pattern table C (FIG. 14C) is set. Thereby, it becomes possible to transmit a drive signal to the solenoid 82A for the upper prize winning door. By setting an address value for referring to the release pattern corresponding to the round counter value designated by the release pattern table set in step S297 in a predetermined area of the RAM 103 (for example, the game control buffer setting unit 155), the round start The control signal for turning on or off the solenoid in accordance with the elapsed time may be transmitted to the upper prize winning door solenoid 82A. On the other hand, when the lower open round is started, D2 is set (value is set to “ 1) ”. Thereby, it becomes possible to transmit a drive signal to the solenoid 82B for the lower prize winning door. Similarly, an address value for referring to the release pattern corresponding to the round counter value specified by the release pattern table set in step S298 is set in a predetermined area of the RAM 103 (for example, the game control buffer setting unit 155). Setting is made to transmit a drive signal to the solenoid 82B for the lower prize winning door. In step S302, the update of the round timer for measuring the elapsed time from the start of the round set in a predetermined area (for example, the game control timer setting unit 153) of the RAM 102 is started. By switching the use record of the set big prize opening pattern table according to the value of the round timer, the big prize opening door is driven by the solenoid and the big prize opening is opened at the timing according to the big hit type and the number of rounds It can be changed to a state and a closed state. When the bit value of D1 is set to “1”, the upper prize winning door becomes openable. Therefore, it can be expressed that the upper special variable winning device 7A is in the valid state when the bit of D1 is “1”. Similarly, when the bit value of D2 is “1”, it can be said that the lower special variable winning device is in an effective state. In this way, when starting each round game, the CPU 103 updates one of the bits of the solenoid output data table to “1”, thereby including a plurality of upper special variable winning devices 7A and lower special variable winning devices 7B. Any one of the special variable winning devices is controlled to be in an effective state.

  Next, the CPU 103 determines whether or not the big winning opening to be opened determined in step S300 is a lower major winning opening (step S303), and if it is a lower major winning opening (step S303; Yes), the RAM 102 The value of the probability variation area solenoid control code set in the predetermined area (for example, the game control buffer setting unit 155) is set to 1 (step S304). The probability variation region solenoid control code specifies that the position control of the probability variation region lid 72 using the probability variation region solenoid and the control of validity / invalidity of the probability variation region are started in the probability variation region solenoid control region described later. Control code. As described above, since the start of the position control of the probability variation area and the validity / invalidity control of the probability variation area is started using a common control code (probability variation area solenoid control code), the probability variation area is opened and closed in addition to opening and closing the probability variation area. Even when the validity / invalidity of the area is changed, the necessary storage capacity can be reduced. Whether it is determined in step S303 that it is not a round to open the lower big prize opening (step S303; No), or when the processing of step S304 is completed, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “5” (step S306) End pre-release processing. When the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “5” in step S305, the big hit release process in step S115 shown in FIG. 7 is executed when the next timer interruption occurs.

  FIG. 17A is a flowchart illustrating an example of the process executed in step S115 of FIG. 7 as the big hit release process. In the big hit release process shown in FIG. 17A, the CPU 103 first determines whether or not the currently executed round game is a round that opens the lower big prize opening (step S311). As an example, when the round counter value is “14” or “16” indicating the probability variation open round, it is determined that the round is to open the lower major winning opening (step S311; Yes), and the lower major winning opening is entered. The lower big prize opening winning detection process for detecting the detected game ball is executed (step S316).

  In the lower prize winning prize detection process, based on the fact that the lower prize winning switch 23B is turned on, it is determined that a game ball that has entered the lower prize winning port has been detected, and the prize counter during the game is counted. Add one. The bonus game counter during winning game is a counter indicating the number of game balls in the lower special variable winning device 7B provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 102 (for example, the game control counter setting unit 153). The prize counter during winnings in the game is decremented by 1 when the probability changing area switch 24A and the discharge switch 24B detect a game ball discharged from the lower special variable winning device 7B. If the lower major prize opening switch invalid flag is set to ON, even if the lower major prize opening switch 23B is in the ON state, the detection is invalidated and the prize counter during the game is not increased. . The lower prize winning switch invalid flag is a flag provided in a predetermined area (for example, the game control flag setting unit 152) of the RAM 102 and set to an on state in step S549 of FIG. In the state, even when the lower big prize opening switch 23B detects a game ball that has entered the lower special variable prize-winning device 7B, it is used to execute control for invalidating the detection. That is, the value of the prize counter during the game is detected by the probability variation area switch 24A from the number of game balls detected by the lower large prize opening switch 23B when the lower big prize opening switch invalid flag is not turned on. The number is controlled by subtracting the number of game balls and the number of game balls detected by the discharge switch 24B.

  In the lower great prize opening winning detection process, the CPU 103 further determines that the prize counter during the game is 1 or more (that is, when one or more valid game balls exist in the lower special variable winning device 7B). Based on the fact that the probability change area switch 24A has detected a game ball, the probability change confirmation flag set in a predetermined area (for example, the game control flag setting unit 152) of the RAM 102 is set to the ON state. Even in this case, when the probability variation area detection valid flag is cleared, the detection is invalidated and the probability variation confirmation flag is not set. The probability variation area detection valid flag is switched between an on state and an off state in a probability variation region solenoid control process (step S16A in FIG. 6A) provided in a predetermined region of the RAM 102 (for example, the game control flag setting unit 152). It is a flag, and is used to execute control for switching validity / invalidity of the probability variation area at a predetermined timing in the big hit gaming state. In this embodiment, the probability variation area is valid only when the bottom major prize opening is open in the bottom open round of the big hit game state (the probability variation area detection valid flag is set), and the probability variation area is set for other periods. Invalidate (clear the probability variation area detection valid flag).

  It is to be noted that if the prize winning counter during the game is 0 or the probability variation area detection valid flag is cleared and the game ball that has passed the probability variation area is detected by the lower large prize opening switch 23B, it is illegal. Therefore, step S508 is skipped and the probability variation confirmation flag is not turned on. According to such a configuration, security against fraud can be increased.

  When step S316 in FIG. 17A is completed or it is determined in step S311 that it is not a round for opening the lower big prize opening (step S311; No), the CPU 103 opens the big prize opening based on the opening pattern. A big prize opening opening control process is executed (step S317). As an example, first, in the opening pattern set in step S302 of FIG. 12, it is specified whether the big winning opening is set to the open state or the closed state at the timing indicated by the current round timer value. To do. Then, according to the specific result, when it is determined No in step S311 (when it is a normal open round), when it is determined Yes to the solenoid 82A for the upper prize winning door (when it is a probability variable open round). In this case, a control signal for turning the solenoid on or off according to the specific result may be transmitted to the solenoid 82B for the lower large prize opening door. For example, in step S317, the CPU 103 uses the usage time of the currently used record among the records of the use release pattern set in step S302 of FIG. The time is compared to determine whether or not the usage time of the current usage record has elapsed. If it is determined that the usage time has elapsed, the next record is stored as a usage record in the usage release pattern, and the drive signal corresponding to the opening / closing operation specified by the usage record is set to the corresponding solenoid (lower release round). Is transmitted to the solenoid 82B, and to the solenoid 82A) in the upper open round. If the record name of the set next use record is “Large winning opening opening time k (k is an arbitrary integer)”, the special variable winning device (upper special variable winning device 7A or lower special variable winning device 7B) is selected. A control signal for opening is transmitted to the solenoid. On the other hand, if the big winning opening opening time k (k is an arbitrary integer) ", the special variable winning device (upper special variable winning device 7A or lower special variable winning device 7B) is controlled to be closed (output off). Transmit the signal to the corresponding solenoid. In the case where the grand prize opening is closed in step S317 (that is, when changing to the closed state during the execution of the round game), it is only necessary to clear the predesignated bit. Of these, only the control for closing the special prize winning opening / closing control target is executed. According to such a configuration, the lower prize winning opening or the upper prize winning opening can be controlled to be opened and closed at a predetermined timing according to the big hit type and the number of execution rounds, using the set big winning prize pattern table. it can.

  Next, the CPU 103 determines whether or not the special winning opening opening upper limit time has elapsed (step S318). At this time, if the upper prize opening opening upper limit time has not elapsed (step S318; No), the big prize opening switch in which the detection of the game ball is effective among the upper big prize opening switch 23A and the lower big prize opening switch 23B. It is determined whether or not the detection signal transmitted from is turned on (step S319).

  If the big prize opening switch is on in step S319 (step S319; Yes), the winning number count value is updated to be incremented by 1 (step S320). The winning number count value is a stored value of a winning number counter provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 102 such as the game control counter setting unit 154, and is detected by the big winning opening switch while one round game is executed. Any number that indicates the number of game balls may be used. Thereafter, based on the fact that the game ball is detected by the big prize opening switch, setting for paying out the game ball to be the prize ball is performed (step S321). Instead of directly paying out the winning balls, a score corresponding to the number of winning balls may be given.

  If the big winning opening switch is off in step S319 (step S319; No), or after executing the process of step S321, the winning number count value for which the winning number count value is determined in advance (for example, “6”). Is determined (step S322). At this time, if the winning upper limit determination value has not been reached (step S322; No), the big hit release process is terminated. Here, since the value of the special figure process flag is not updated, the big hit release process is executed again when the next timer interrupt occurs.

  On the other hand, if the big winning opening operating time has elapsed in step S318 (step S318; Yes), or if it is determined in step S322 that the winning upper limit determination value has been reached, the CPU 103 clears the winning number counter. As a result, the count value is initialized to “0” (step S324). Next, based on the round counter value, the CPU 103 determines whether or not the round to be ended is a probability change open round that opens the lower major winning opening. (Step S325). Then, if it is determined that it is a probability variation open round that opens the lower prize winning opening (step S325; Yes), a predetermined area of the RAM 102 (for example, the game control timer setting unit 153) is used to measure the elapsed time after the round ends. A value corresponding to a predetermined input / output match wait time limit is set in the input / output match wait timer set to (for example, 2740 milliseconds), and counting until the time is up is started (step S326).

  If it is determined in step 325 that it is not a round that opens the lower prize opening (step S325; No), or if the process in step S326 is finished, the CPU 103 next finishes the opening control of the big prize opening and is currently executing a round The closing control is executed to close the special variable winning ball apparatus opened in step (the lower special variable winning ball apparatus 7B in the case of the lower opening round, and the upper special variable winning ball apparatus 7A in the case of the upper opening round) (step). S327, S328). The closing control of the lower special variable winning ball device 7B is based on whether the operation time of the lower large winning ball end is finished or the upper limit number of game balls enter the lower special variable winning ball device 7B. Executed. On the other hand, the closing control of the upper special variable winning ball device 7A is based on the condition that either the operation time of the upper special winning ball end or the upper limit number of gaming balls has entered the upper special variable winning ball device 7A. Executed.

  In this embodiment, the CPU 103 controls the closing of the lower special variable winning ball device 7B (step S327) and the upper special variable winning ball device 7B regardless of whether the round game being executed is the upper open round or the lower open round. Together with the closing control (step S328). That is, as the closing control of the lower special variable winning ball apparatus 7B, a process of clearing D2 (setting the value to “0”) of the solenoid output data table is executed (step S327). When “D2” in the solenoid output data table is cleared, the drive control of the big prize opening door using the solenoid 82B for the lower big prize opening door is stopped, and the output of the solenoid is turned off. As a result, the lower large prize opening door is kept closed, and the lower special variable winning ball apparatus 7B is closed. Further, as the closing control of the upper special variable winning ball apparatus 7B, the CPU 103 executes a process of clearing D1 of the solenoid output data table (setting the value to “0”) (step S328). When “D1” in the solenoid output data table is cleared, the drive control of the special prize opening door using the solenoid 82A is stopped, and the output of the solenoid is turned off. As a result, the upper large prize opening door is kept closed, and the upper special variable winning ball apparatus 7A is closed. By the processing of step S327 and step S328, both the values of D1 and D2 in the solenoid output data table are updated to 0 regardless of whether the lower opening round is being executed or the lower opening round is being executed (FIG. 17B). That is, the upper special variable winning device 7A and the lower special variable winning device 7B are controlled to be in an invalid state. On the other hand, in the solenoid output data table, flags (other than D1 and D2) other than the solenoid 82A for the upper prize winning door and the solenoid 82A for the upper prize winning door are not updated. The upper special variable winning ball device 7A and the lower special variable winning ball device 7B, such as the probability variation area lid, do not affect the opening / closing control of devices having different closing conditions.

  Even when either the upper university winning opening or the lower university winning opening is closed, by executing both the process of making the upper university winning opening closed and the process of closing the lower university winning opening Therefore, it is not necessary to determine whether the closing process is an upper prize winning opening or a lower prize winning opening. Therefore, the required processing amount can be reduced. In addition, it is easy to change the design because it is only necessary to delete or add the process for making the closed state, whether the number of large winning prizes to be used is reduced or increased.

  When the process of step S328 ends, the CPU 103 updates the value of the special figure process flag to “6” (step S329), and then ends the big hit release process. When the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “6”, when the next timer interruption occurs, the processing after the big hit release in step S116 shown in FIG. 7 is executed.

  FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the process executed in step S116 of FIG. 7 as the big hit release post-process. In the processing after the big hit release shown in FIG. 18, the CPU 103 first determines whether or not the lower big prize opening has been opened in the executed round game (whether it was a probable open round) based on the round counter value (step). S541). When the lower major winning opening is opened (step S541; Yes), the CPU 103 next sets the next transition allowance flag provided in a predetermined area (for example, the game control flag setting unit 153) of the RAM 102 to the ON state. It is determined whether or not there is (step S542). In step S547, which will be described later, the next transition allowance flag is set to the on state when a condition for ending the executed round and shifting to the next state (execution of control after the currently executed round) is satisfied. This flag is used to suitably allow execution of control after the round being executed. Here, the next state is the next round when the executed round is not the last round of the jackpot gaming state, or the game after the end of the jackpot gaming state and the end of the jackpot when the round is the last round. Indicates a state (a special game state controlled to the probability change state when the probability change confirmation flag is set, and a normal game state not controlled to the probability change state when the flag is not set). If it is determined that the next transition allowance flag is not set to the on state (step S542; No), the CPU 103 sets the input / output error flag provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 102 (for example, the game control flag setting unit 152) to the on state. Is set (step S543). The I / O error flag does not become 0 even when the winning counter during the game is over the I / O match waiting upper limit time, and an I / O error state (a state in which it is estimated that a clogging or the like has occurred) will be described later. This flag is set to an on state in step S552, which will be described later, based on the start, and is used to wait until the error state is resolved by executing an abnormal operation, etc., described later, and controlling the error state. It is done.

  If it is determined that the I / O error flag is not on (step S543; No), then the CPU 103 determines whether or not the I / O match waiting timer started counting in step S326 of FIG. Step S544). If a predetermined input / output matching waiting upper limit time (for example, 2740 milliseconds) has not yet elapsed from the start of counting in step S326 in FIG. 17A, the CPU 103 determines that the timer has not expired (step S544). No), the above-described lower prize winning port detection process is executed (step S545). In step S545, as in step S316 of FIG. 17A, the CPU 103 sets a probability change confirmation flag and a prize counter during winnings in accordance with the state of the lower large prize opening switch 23B, the probability change area switch 24A, and the discharge switch 24B. Update.

  When step S545 is completed, the CPU 103 determines whether or not the counter value of the winning prize counter during the game updated at step S545 is 0 (step S546). When it is determined that the counter value of the winning prize counter during the game is 0 (step S546; Yes), the CPU 103 sets a next transition permission flag (step S547). That is, the number of game balls that have entered the lower special variable winning ball device 7B detected by the lower large prize opening switch 23B, and the number of game balls detected by the probability variation area switch 24A (the lower special variable prize balls passing through the probability variation area). Number of game balls discharged from the device 7B) and the number of game balls detected by the discharge switch 24B (number of game balls discharged from the lower special variable winning ball device 7B without passing through the probability variation area) If the current round is the last round executed in the jackpot gaming state, the jackpot gaming state is terminated, and if it is not the last round, the next round is entered. Permissible control is executed.

  Next, the CPU 103 determines whether or not the input / output error flag is on in the same manner as in step S543 (step S548). If it is determined that the I / O error flag is not on (step S548; No), that is, if it is not an I / O error, the CPU 103 ends the processing after releasing the big hit. In step S546, the winning counter during the game is not 0, and the control is executed after the running round (if the running round is the last round executed in the big hit gaming state, the big hit gaming state ends. If it is determined that the transition to the next round is not permitted if it is not the last round (step S546; No), the processing after the big hit release is similarly terminated.

  In step S544, in the round game in which the lower prize winning opening is opened, a predetermined time after the period for changing the lower special variable winning ball device 7B to the open state is not permitted without executing the control after the round being executed. When it is determined that the input / output match waiting upper limit time (for example, 2740 milliseconds) has elapsed (step S544; Yes), the CPU 103 temporarily disables the detection of the game ball by the lower prize winning port switch 24A. Therefore, the lower large prize opening switch invalid flag is set to the on state (step S549). As a result, even if the lower great prize opening switch detects a game ball in the lower big prize opening winning detection process until it is updated to the off state, the winning counter during the game is not updated and the detection becomes invalid. . At this time, at least the detection by the discharge switch 24B is effective, and when the game ball passes through the installation portion of the discharge switch 24B, the winning counter during the game is decremented by 1 in the lower large winning opening detection process.

  Next, the CPU 103 executes a process (error display start process) for starting a screen display indicating that the image display apparatus 5 is in an input / output error state (step S550). Specifically, a command to be executed next is set by setting a buffer value for designating transmission of an effect control command for instructing start of error display in a transmission command buffer provided in the game control buffer setting unit 155 of the RAM 102. In the control process (step S <b> 17 in FIG. 6A), an effect control command that designates the start of error display may be transmitted to the effect control board 12.

  Next, with respect to an external device such as a hall management computer, the number of game balls that have entered the lower special variable winning ball device 7B detected by the lower large prize opening switch 23B and the number of game balls detected by the probability variation area switch 24A And the number of game balls detected by the discharge switch 24B do not match, and an error signal is transmitted to notify that the input / output match waiting upper limit time has elapsed (an input / output error has occurred) ( Step S551). By outputting the error signal, the external device such as the hall management computer that has received the error signal can know the occurrence of the input / output error, so that the hall manager can quickly cope with the error.

  When step S551 is completed, the CPU 103 sets the input / output error flag to the on state (step S552), and ends the big hit release post-processing. Through the processing of steps S549 to S552, the number of game balls that have entered the lower special variable winning ball device 7B detected by the lower large prize opening switch 23B, the number of game balls detected by the probability variation area switch 24A, and the discharge switch 24B are detected. The input / output error state is controlled based on the fact that the number obtained by adding the number of game balls does not match and the input / output match waiting upper limit time has elapsed.

  When the input / output error state is controlled, it is determined in step S543 of the big hit release post-processing that the input / output error flag is on (step S543; Yes), and step S544 is skipped. Further, when the input / output error state is controlled, there is a case where the clogging of the ball is resolved by an abnormal operation of the probability changing area lid 72 executed in the input / output error state described later, for example. In addition, there is a case where the manager of the pachinko gaming machine 1 opens the lower prize winning door by hand and throws a game ball in order to eliminate the error state. In such a case, when the discharge switch 24B detects a game ball that has been jammed or has been thrown in, the prize counter during the game is updated in the lower prize winning detection process (step S545). . At this time, it is determined in step S546 that the winning prize counter during the game is 0 (step S546; Yes). In step S547, not only the next transition permission flag is set to the ON state, but also in step S548. It is determined that the output error flag is in the on state (step S548; Yes), and processing for eliminating the input / output error state (steps S553 and S555) is executed. Specifically, the CPU 103 sets the I / O error flag in the off state in step S553 (step S553), and then sets the lower big prize opening switch invalid flag in the off state (step S555). Exit.

  Whether it is determined whether the round game executed in step S541 is a normally open round that does not open the lower prize winning opening (step S541; No), or it is determined in step S542 that the next transition allowance flag is on. In this case (step S542; Yes), the CPU 103 determines whether or not a next round waiting flag provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 102 such as the game control flag setting unit 152 is on (step S561). The next round waiting flag is set to the ON state by the process of step S564 described later, corresponding to waiting until the next round game in the big hit gaming state is started.

  When the next round wait flag is OFF in step S561 (step S561; No), it is determined whether or not the round count value has reached a predetermined round upper limit determination value (eg, “16”) (step S562). ). At this time, if the round upper limit determination value has not been reached (step S562; No), a predetermined time (for example, 1 second) set in advance as the next round waiting time is set (step S563). Then, after setting the next round wait flag to the ON state (step S564), the processing after the big hit release is ended. Here, since the value of the special figure process flag is not updated, the processing after the big hit release is executed again when the next timer interrupt occurs.

  If it is determined in step S562 that the round upper limit determination value has been reached (step S562; Yes), a predetermined time is set as the pre-hit end time (step S565). At this time, the round counter is cleared and the count value is initialized to “0” (step S566). Further, the big hit flag and the next transition allowance flag are cleared and turned off (step S567). Further, the value of the probability variation region solenoid code is set to 0 (step S567A), and the position control of the probability variation region lid 72 and the control control for valid / invalid of the probability variation region in the probability variation region solenoid control processing described later are stopped. Then, after updating the value of the special figure process flag to “7” (step S568), the processing after the big hit release is ended. When the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “7”, when the next timer interrupt occurs, the big hit end process of step S117 shown in FIG. 7 is executed.

  If the next round waiting flag is ON in step S561 (step S561; Yes), it is determined whether or not the next round waiting time has elapsed (step S569). If the next round waiting time has not elapsed (step S569; No), the processing after the big hit release is terminated. At this time, since the special figure process flag is not updated, the processing after the big hit release is executed again when the next timer interrupt occurs, and waits until the next round waiting time elapses.

  When the next round waiting time has elapsed in step S569 (step S569; Yes), the next transition allowance flag and the next round waiting flag are cleared and turned off (step S570). Further, the round count value is updated so as to be incremented by 1 (step S571). Further, the value of the probability variation region solenoid code is set to 0 (step S571A), and the position control of the probability variation region lid 72 and the control control for valid / invalidity of the probability variation region are stopped in the probability variation region solenoid control process described later. Then, the CPU 103 refers to the value of the round counter and the big hit release pattern table set in step S297 in FIG. 12, and determines whether the big winning opening to be released in the next round is the lower big winning opening. It is determined whether or not it is a top prize winning opening (step S572). Then, based on the determination result of step S572, the value corresponding to the open big winning opening of the next round to be started is set in the abnormal winning confirmation table according to the big winning opening to be opened in the next starting round. (Step S573). The specific processing content is the same as that in step S300B of FIG. In this manner, in the abnormal winning confirmation table, the bit assigned to the big winning opening formed by the special variable winning device that is released (valid) in the next round to be started is “0” as a value indicating the valid state. The bit assigned to the big winning opening that is held in the closed state (in an invalid state) is set to “1” (reverse value) as a value indicating the invalid state.

  In other words, as shown in FIG. 16, the abnormal winning confirmation table includes a bit of B0 set to a value indicating whether the lower large winning opening (the lower special variable winning device 7B) is valid or invalid. And the bit of B1 set to a value indicating whether the upper prize winning opening (upper special variable winning apparatus 7A) is in a valid state or an invalid state. The bit B0 is set to “0” as a value indicating the valid state when the lower large prize opening (the lower special variable winning device 7B) is controlled to the valid state, while when it is controlled to the invalid state. It is set to “1” as a value indicating an invalid state. The bit B1 is set to “0” as a value indicating the valid state when the upper large prize opening (upper special variable prize winning device 7A) is controlled to the valid state, while when it is controlled to the invalid state. It is set to “1” as a value indicating an invalid state. In the abnormal winning confirmation table, a specific bit is assigned to a specific special variable winning device, and is updated according to the valid / invalid state. The bits (B0 to B7) in FIG. 16 are bit strings that are collectively processed when the 8-bit CPU 103 executes various arithmetic processes such as load, store, logical product, and logical sum. Of B0 to B7, bits other than B0 and B1 are used for purposes different from the data indicating the valid / invalid state of the special variable winning device. The usage of the other bits is arbitrary, but may be used as, for example, valid / invalid data of the probability variation region or a region where the probability variation region solenoid control code is set. According to such a configuration, the storage capacity of the buffer can be used effectively.

  When step S573 is completed, the CPU 103 updates the value of the special figure process flag to “4” (step S574), and then ends the big hit release post-processing. When the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “4”, when the next timer interruption occurs, the big hit pre-release processing in step S114 shown in FIG. 7 is executed, and a new round game may be started. it can.

  As described above, in the processing after the big hit release in FIG. 18 and FIG. 19, after the big winning opening operation time in the round game is over, the execution of the control after the running round exceeds the predetermined input / output matching waiting time. Is not permitted, the lower big prize opening switch invalid flag is set to the on state, and the detection of the game ball by the lower big prize opening switch 23B is invalidated. At this time, at least the discharge switch 24B is effective, and when the game ball passes through the installation portion of the discharge switch 24B, 1 is subtracted from the prize counter during the game playing in the lower prize winning detection process. Therefore, for example, when the lower big prize opening door 71 is opened by hand and a game ball is made to enter the lower special variable winning ball apparatus 7B, the prize counter value during the game is detected by the lower big prize opening switch 23B. Is subtracted based on detection by the discharge switch 24B. Therefore, the I / O error state can be canceled by manually opening the lower large prize opening door 71 until the game counter is set to 0 and allowing the game ball to enter the lower special variable winning ball apparatus 7B. . That is, it is possible to easily recover from the error state.

  Further, in order to wait for the next round start waiting time to elapse in step S569 and start the next round, steps S327 and S328 in FIG. Then, after executing the control for closing the big prize opening and ending the round, it is possible to suitably set the waiting time until the next big hit gaming state is started.

  In the plurality of big winning opening tables used in this embodiment, a closing time included in the execution time of a round game is set after the last winning opening is opened in the round game (for example, FIG. 14). (B) and (D) large winning opening opening pattern tables B and D) and tables not set (for example, the large winning opening opening pattern tables A and D shown in FIGS. 14A and 14C). And are included. As shown in FIGS. 13B and 13C, the closing time included in the execution time of the round game set after the last winning opening is opened is a jackpot type with a high probability that the probability variation control condition is satisfied. It is set in the soot winning opening opening pattern table used in the lower opening round of the big hit gaming state (second jackpot). The closing time set after the final winning opening is finally opened is the time when the lower winning winning opening is opened for a longer time (about 27 seconds or 2 seconds) than the “first big hit”, and then the game ball is placed in the probability changing area. It is used as the time for determining whether or not it has passed. For this reason, it is possible to reliably detect game balls that have passed through the probability variation area, including game balls that have passed through the probability variation area after passing through the special winning opening (so-called “delayed sphere”). On the other hand, when the upper special variable prize-winning device 7A that does not include the probability variation area related to whether or not the probability variation control condition is satisfied is in an open state or when the percentage of game balls entering the lower special variable prize-winning device 7B is low ( For example, when the game ball is opened for only 52 milliseconds, it is not assumed that the game ball passes through the probability variation area. Therefore, in such a case, the round game is ended without setting the closing time after the final winning opening is finally opened, so that an unnecessary waiting time is not included and the execution schedule of the round game is preferably set. It can be set.

  FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing an example of the process executed in step S117 of FIG. 7 as the big hit end process. In the jackpot end process shown in FIG. 20, the CPU 103 first determines whether or not the time before the jackpot end has elapsed (step S361). At this time, if the time before the jackpot end has not elapsed (step S361; No), the jackpot end processing ends. Here, since the special figure process flag is not updated, the big hit end process is executed again when the next timer interruption occurs, and the process waits until the time before the big hit end elapses.

  When the time before the big hit end has elapsed in step S361 (step S361; Yes), the CPU 103 determines whether or not the probability variation confirmation flag is on (step S363).

  When the probability change confirmation flag is on in step S363 (step S363; Yes), the probability change control is started and the game state in the pachinko gaming machine 1 is set to be the probability change state (step S364). As an example, in the process of step S364, in addition to setting the probability variation flag to the on state, the count initial value (for example, “50”) corresponding to the upper limit number of special figure games that can be executed in the probability variation state is changed. Set to count counter. Thereafter, the probability variation confirmation flag is cleared and turned off (step S365).

  When the probability variation confirmation flag is OFF in step S363 (step S363; No), after executing the process of step S365, the CPU 103 sets an initial value in the abnormal winning confirmation table (step S366A). Here, a value (00000001) in which only the bit “B0” corresponding to the lower big prize opening switch is “1” is set as an initial value. Then, after clearing the special figure process flag and initializing its value to “0” (step S368), the jackpot end processing is ended. When the special timer process flag is initialized to “0”, the special symbol normal process of step S110 shown in FIG. 7 is executed when the next timer interrupt occurs.

  FIG. 21A is a flowchart illustrating an example of the process executed in step S118 of FIG. 7 as the small hit release pre-process. In the small hit release pre-processing shown in FIG. 21A, the CPU 103 first determines whether or not the small hit start presentation waiting time has elapsed (step S401). At this time, if the small hit start production waiting time has not elapsed (step S401; No), the small hit pre-release processing is terminated. Here, since the value of the special figure process flag is not updated, the small hit release pre-processing is executed again when the next timer interruption occurs, and the process waits until the small hit start presentation waiting time elapses.

  In step S401, when the small hitting start production waiting time has elapsed (step S401; Yes), for example, a small hitting big opening opening pattern table as shown in FIG. 21B is set (step S402). The value of solenoid output data D3 is set to “1” as the opening control for starting the lower upper large winning opening and opening the lower special variable winning ball apparatus 7B (step S403). In the small hit gaming state, the step probability changing area solenoid control code is kept cleared in step S571A of FIG. 19 at the end of the big hit gaming state. Therefore, the probability variation region lid is held in a closed state throughout the small hit gaming state, and the probability variation region becomes invalid. As described above, the vicinity of the probability variation area is invisible or difficult for the player, and it is possible to conceal whether or not the game ball has passed through the probability variation area. Therefore, in combination with the third big hit game state and the small hit game state being similar to the opening / closing mode of the lower big prize opening, it is impossible to be “big hit game state” in which the probability variation control condition controlled to the probability variation state can be established. Therefore, it is difficult for the player to determine whether the game state is a “small hit game state”, and the expectation as to whether or not the game state is controlled to the probability change state can be appropriately given.

  FIG. 21B is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of a small hits big winning opening opening pattern table. In the small hits big winning opening opening pattern table in FIG. 21B, as shown in the figure, the opening time for making the lower big winning opening open and the closing time for making it closed are set alternately. Also, in the case of small hits, unlike the big hit, there is no concept of a round game, so it is not controlled by different opening / closing patterns depending on the round game, and once it is controlled to an open state, it is opened and closed multiple times A series of operations until the control is performed and finally it is controlled to the closed state is set in the small hit big winning opening opening pattern table. In the present embodiment, in order to execute the opening / closing operation of the lower big prize opening in the small hit game state, imitating the opening / closing operation of the lower big prize opening in the third big hit gaming state, Records for instructing the opening / closing operation corresponding to the open round (records 1 and 2 corresponding to the 14th round, records 3 to 6 corresponding to the 16th round) are set.

  Subsequent to the processing of step S403, the big winning opening operating time corresponding to the small hit gaming state is set in the big winning opening operating time timer set in a predetermined area of the RAM 102 (step S405). The grand prize opening operation period of the big prize opening starts. Then, after updating the value of the special figure process flag to “9” which is a value corresponding to the small hit release processing (step S406), the small hit release pre-processing is terminated.

  FIG. 22 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process executed in step S119 of FIG. 7 as the small hit release process. In the small hit opening process shown in FIG. 22, the CPU 103 first refers to the big prize opening time timer to determine whether or not the big prize opening time set in step S405 has elapsed (step S721). . If the special winning opening operating time has not elapsed (step S721; No), the special winning opening opening control process is executed (step S722). In step S722, similarly to step S317 in FIG. 17A, the small winning big opening opening pattern set in step S402 in FIG. A record to be used in the table is determined, and when the usage time ends, a drive signal corresponding to the new record may be transmitted to the solenoid 82C for the lower prize winning opening door. When performing the closing control of the lower big prize opening during execution of the small hit gaming state, similarly to the closing control during the round game in the lower opening round of the big hit gaming state, it is different from the lower big winning opening subject to the opening / closing control. The closing control for the big prize opening is not executed.

  After the process of step S722 is executed, it is determined whether or not the detection signal transmitted from the lower large prize opening switch 23B has been turned on (step S723). When the lower big prize opening switch 23B is OFF (step S723; No), the small hit opening process is terminated. On the other hand, if the lower large prize opening switch 23A is ON in step S723 (step S723; Yes), the winning number count value is updated to be incremented by 1 (step S724). Subsequently, based on the fact that the game ball is detected by the upper prize winning port switch 23A, a setting for paying out the game ball to be a prize ball is made (step S725), and the small hit releasing process is terminated. . Instead of directly paying out the winning balls, a score corresponding to the number of winning balls may be given.

  For example, in the process of step S725, the CPU 103 instructs to pay out a predetermined number (for example, “14”) of game balls in response to the detection of the game ball by the upper prize port switch 23A. The storage address (such as the top address) in the ROM 101 of the payout control command table prepared in advance may be specified so that a command (for example, a prize ball number specifying command) is transmitted to the payout control board. The payout control command set in this way is transmitted from the main board 11 to the payout control board, for example, by executing the command control process included in the game control timer interrupt process after the special symbol process process is completed. Just do it.

  When the big winning opening operating time has elapsed in step S721 (step S721; Yes), the winning match waiting process is executed after clearing the number of winning prizes (step S727). As in the case of step S326 of FIG. 17A and step S544 of FIG. It is a process waiting for the limit. If the prize counter during winnings for an accessory game does not become 0 after a predetermined time, error processing may be executed in the same manner as steps S549 to 552 in FIG. As described above, in the small hit gaming state, the probability variation area lid is kept closed, and the probability variation area is invalidated. Therefore, it is possible to simplify the process by omitting the winning match waiting process. However, game balls that are not properly discharged while entering the lower special variable winning ball apparatus 7B in the small hit gaming state, or game balls that are arranged in the lower special variable winning ball apparatus 7B in the small hit gaming state for illegal purposes. However, it is conceivable that the player may pass through the probability variation area in the lower open round of the big hit gaming state executed after the end of the small hit. Even in the small hit game state, by waiting until the winning prize counter during the game is 0, the security can be improved corresponding to such a case. When step S727 is completed, “D2” in the solenoid output data table is cleared as a process for controlling the lower prize winning port to the closed state when ending the small hit gaming state (step S728). In the small hit gaming state, unlike the big hit gaming state, since it is determined that the special variable winning device to be opened is the lower special variable winning device 7B, the process of closing the upper special variable winning device 7A is not executed. . Then, after updating the value of the special figure process flag to “10” (step S729), the small hit releasing process is terminated.

  FIG. 23A is a flowchart illustrating an example of a winning notification process performed in the main-side error process in step S12 of FIG. In the winning notification process, an abnormal winning confirmation table (FIG. 16) provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 102 is compared with the state of each switch such as the lower large winning port switch 23B and the upper large winning port switch 23A. It is determined whether or not there has been a prize. In the winning notification process, the CPU 103 first determines whether or not the upper prize winning switch 23A or the lower prize winning switch 23B is on (step S52). If both the upper large prize opening switch 23A and the lower large prize opening switch 23B are in the OFF state (step S52; No), the CPU 103 ends the winning notification process. On the other hand, if either the upper prize winning port switch 23A or the lower major prize opening switch 23B is on (step S52; Yes), the CPU 103 determines whether the value of the special symbol process code is 4 or less. Determination is made (step S53). In the progress of the game, steps S115 to 120 in FIG. 7 should be executed at the timing when the game ball enters the special variable winning device and is detected by the big winning opening switch (23A or 23B). Therefore, when the upper prize winning switch 23A or the lower prize winning switch 23B is in the ON state, the value of the special symbol process code is 4 or less (any of S110 to S114 is executed in the special symbol process). Sometimes (step S53; Yes), it is determined that there is an abnormal winning, and error processing (steps S57 to S59) described later is executed.

  On the other hand, if the value of the special symbol process code is larger than 4 (step S53; No), the abnormal winning confirmation table value stored in a predetermined area (for example, the game control flag setting unit 152) of the RAM 102 is loaded next. (Step S54). Similarly, the switch-on buffer is loaded (step S55). In the abnormal winning confirmation table, in step S300B of FIG. 12 or step S573 of FIG. 19, the big hit game among the bit (B1) corresponding to the upper big prize opening switch and the bit (B0) corresponding to the lower big prize opening switch. The value of the bit corresponding to the big prize opening opened in the round game of the state or the small hit gaming state is “0” indicating an invalid state, and the bit corresponding to the opened big prize opening is not the bit (reverse) Each value is set to “1” indicating the valid state (FIGS. 24A to 24E). That is, the bit corresponding to the switch that should not normally detect the game ball is set to the on state. Further, the switch-on buffer has a bit (B1) corresponding to the case where the upper prize winning opening switch is in the ON state and the bit corresponding to the case where the lower prize winning opening switch is in the ON state. (B0) is set to “1”.

  Following step S55, the CPU 103 performs a mask process on each of the values loaded in steps S54 and S55 (step S55A). For example, as shown in FIG. 23B, for example, the mask data used for the mask processing includes the bits (bit address 0 and Only a buffer corresponding to bit address 1) is a bit string in which "1" is set and "0" is set for the other bits. In step S55A, a logical product is calculated from the mask data and the value of the abnormal winning confirmation table loaded in step S54. Further, the logical product of the same mask data and the value of the switch-on buffer loaded in step S55 is calculated. The calculated values are retained at the time of loading for the bits assigned to the upper prize winning opening and the lower prize winning opening in the switch-on buffer and the abnormal winning confirmation table. On the other hand, the values of bits other than the bits assigned to the upper prize winning opening and the lower winning prize opening (bit address 2 to bit address 7 in this example) are updated to “0” regardless of the value at the time of loading. .

  As a predetermined calculation, the CPU 103 calculates a logical product (AND) between the value of the abnormal winning confirmation table loaded in S54 subjected to the filtering process and the value of the switch-on buffer loaded in S55 (step S56). When the switch of the big winning opening which is not opened in the execution or the previous round game or the small hit game is not turned on, that is, when no error occurs, as shown in FIGS. 24 (A) and (C), The product value is “0” as the specific operation result. On the other hand, when the switch of the big winning opening that is not opened is ON, as shown in FIGS. 24B, 24D, and 24E, the logical value is “ Non-zero ”(=“ 1 ”).

  Therefore, the CPU 103 determines whether or not the calculation result is 0 as the specific calculation result after S56 (step S56A). If it is “0” (step S56A; Yes), the game detected in step S52. The ball is determined to be a normal (valid) game ball that has entered the main entrance that has been opened during the previous or previous round game or small hit game, and is notified of the normal winning. Processing for transmitting the winning command to the effect control board 12 is executed (step S56B). Then, the winning notification process is terminated. In this case, step S321 of the big hit release process (FIG. 17A) is executed in the next loop, and the winning ball is paid out as a game value.

  On the other hand, if it is determined Yes in step S53 or No in S56A, the game ball detected in S52 can be determined to be an invalid (invalid) winning, and therefore the CPU 103 performs error processing (steps S57 to S59). ).

  Here, when the abnormal winning confirmation table is set to “0” (“reverse”) and “1”, the bit corresponding to the big winning opening to be opened as shown in FIGS. (FIG. 24 (F) and (G), “order”). In the case of “reverse”, as shown in FIGS. 24A to 24E, the logical product value becomes “non-zero” (= “1”) when an error occurs, and becomes “0” when normal. As a result, not only when the open side (abnormal side) switch detects a game ball (FIGS. 24B and 24D), but both the normal side and abnormal side switches play a game. The same applies to the case where a sphere is detected (FIG. 24E). On the other hand, in the case of “order”, the logical product value becomes “non-zero” (= “1”) in the normal state (FIG. 24F). When only the abnormal side switch detects a game ball, the logical product is “0”, so that it can be distinguished. However, when both the normal side and abnormal side switches detect a game ball (FIG. 24 (G )), And the logical product value is “non-zero” (= “1”) as in the normal state, and further processing (case division processing or the like) is essential to distinguish between normal and abnormal. Thus, with the configuration of the present embodiment, the abnormality determination process can be executed with high accuracy and with a small required processing amount.

  In determining whether the winning is valid or invalid, the bit related to the determination (the bit address of the switch-on buffer related to the detection result of the big winning opening switch or the lower winning opening switch) in the switch-on buffer and the abnormal winning confirmation table. 0 and bit address 1 bits, and bits different from the bit address 0 and bit address 1 of the abnormal winning confirmation table related to the validity of the upper and lower special variable winning devices 7A and 7B (bit address 2 to bit address) 7) is excluded from the calculation result by the mask processing in step S55A. For this reason, information that is not related to determination can be freely assigned to other bits, so that the storage capacity can be used effectively.

  In the error processing (steps S57 to S59), the CPU 103 first performs a setting for prohibiting the update of the first and second special figure reserved memory numbers by setting a special figure reserved memory number update prohibition flag (step S57). After executing the process of step S57, the CPU 103 performs setting for prohibiting the payout of prize balls (step S58). For example, in the process of step S58, the CPU 103 clears the output port for transmitting the prize ball number signal to the payout control board among the output ports included in the I / O 105, thereby transmitting the prize ball number signal. Stop. Further, the CPU 103 prohibits writing of control data for a prize ball number setting buffer provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 102 and an output port for transmitting a prize ball number signal by the I / O 105, thereby preventing the prize ball. Avoid setting the number.

  After executing the process of step S58, the abnormality notification process is executed. A loop process is entered (step S59), and control is performed so as not to proceed to the subsequent processes. As a result, the progress of the game can be stopped, and an illegal act performed by generating an abnormal state can be prevented. In the abnormality notification process in step S59, a predetermined notification screen is displayed in the display area of the image display device 5, a predetermined warning sound is output from the speakers 8L and 8R, and a predetermined warning lamp included in the game effect lamp 9 is displayed. By turning on all the lamps, or by combining some or all of them, a setting for notifying abnormality is performed. As an example, the CPU 103 performs settings for transmitting an abnormal winning notification designation command having different EXT data depending on the type of the detected winning error to the effect control board 12. For example, when it is determined in step S52 that the lower major prize opening switch 23B is on, and in step S54, when it is determined that the upper major prize opening switch 23A is on, the second start is performed in step S56. When it is determined that the mouth switch 22B is on, it is only necessary to identify the type of the winning error that has occurred by transmitting an abnormal winning notification designating command with different EXT data. As described above, in this embodiment, when the calculation result in step S56 is different from “0” as the specific calculation result, it is determined as No in step S56A and the error processing (steps S57 to S59) is entered. The game value (payment of prize balls) given when it is determined as Yes is not given to the player.

  When performing the transmission setting of the abnormal winning notification designation command, the transmission command pointer in the transmission command buffer provided in the RAM 102 designates the storage address (command table address) in the ROM 101 of the command table corresponding to the type of the detected winning error. The buffer area should be set. The abnormal winning notification designation command set in this way is transferred from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12 via the signal relay board 13 by executing a command control process in step S17 of FIG. It only has to be transmitted. Hereinafter, the same setting may be performed in the process of performing the setting for transmitting various control commands to the sub-side control board such as the effect control board 12. In the effect control board 12 that has received the abnormal winning notification designation command, for example, when the effect control CPU 120 of the effect control microcomputer executes notification control processing, a notification operation according to the type of the winning error is performed. do it.

  Hereinafter, an example of specific control in the pachinko gaming machine 1 of this embodiment will be described. In the pachinko gaming machine 1, for example, after a game ball driven into the game area passes through (enters) the first start winning opening and the second starting winning opening, a start winning such as the first starting winning or the second starting winning occurs. Based on the establishment of the start condition that permits the start of variable display of special symbols and decorative symbols, the variable symbol special symbol display is started in the special symbol game by the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B. The On the screen of the image display device 5, variable display of decorative symbols is performed in correspondence with variable display of special symbols. Then, when a big hit symbol is derived as a confirmed special symbol in the special symbol game and the special symbol display result, which is the variable symbol display result, becomes "big hit", the big winning game is opened by controlling the big hit game state. When the round game that changes to is performed, it becomes an advantageous state in which the player can obtain a large number of prize balls (or corresponding scores).

  As the big winning opening which is opened in the round game, the upper winning opening formed by the special variable winning ball apparatus 7A provided in the right gaming area 2B shown in FIG. 1 and the lower winning opening are provided. And a lower large prize opening formed by the special variable winning ball apparatus 7B. 13A to 13C indicate in step S297 shown in FIG. 12 the processing of step S297 shown in FIG. 12 to determine which big winning opening is to be opened in a plurality of round games executed in the big hit gaming state. It is determined according to the round count value as shown. Further, in the process of step S301 shown in FIG. 12, the big winning opening opening upper limit time corresponding to the big hit type and the round count value as shown in FIGS. 14 (A) to (C) is determined.

  After the big hit gaming state is ended, the special figure display result may be controlled to a probability changing state in which the special figure display result is more likely to be “big hit” than the normal state based on the fact that a predetermined probability changing control condition is satisfied. As an example, the probability variation control condition is satisfied when a game ball passes through the installation location of the probability variation region switch 24A and the game ball is detected by the probability variation region switch 24A. Here, the game ball that has entered the lower major prize opening formed by the special variable prize winning ball device 7B in the probability variation open round (lower major prize opening prize ball) is detected by the lower major prize opening switch 23B, and then the gaming ball. Is guided to a branching point between a guide path that guides to the probability variation region and a guide route that guides to a route that discharges without passing through the probability variation region. At this time, if the probability variation area lid is in a position not covering the probability variation area, the game ball passes through the probability variation area. Based on the fact that this game ball is detected by the probability change area switch 24A during execution of the round game in the big hit game state, it is possible to control the probability change state after the big hit game state.

  In addition, the game ball that has entered the upper university winning opening formed by the upper special variable winning ball apparatus 7A in the normal open round (upper university winning opening winning ball) is detected by the upper university winning opening switch 23A, and then the upper special The variable winning ball device 7A is discharged.

  The jackpot type is determined at a different rate according to the variation special chart as shown in FIG. The special figure game using the first special figure is executed based on the fact that the game ball has passed (entered) through the first start winning opening. On the other hand, the special figure game using the second special figure is executed based on the fact that the game ball has passed (entered) through the second start winning opening. The second start winning opening becomes easy for the game ball to pass (enter) when the movable wing piece of the normally variable winning ball apparatus 6B is in an open state or an expanded open state, and the game ball is in a closed state or a normal open state. The ball cannot pass (enter) or pass (entry). In the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B, the variable display result in the special figure game using the first special figure becomes “big hit”, and becomes the “second big hit” or “third big hit” at a ratio of 50/100. The probability variation control condition is satisfied when the game ball that has entered the probability variation region passes, and when the game ball is controlled to the probability variation state, an open state or an expanded release state is established. In this case, since the big hit type is determined as “first big hit” at a predetermined ratio (50/100), the probability variation control condition is hardly established. Therefore, when the special figure display result is “big hit” in the normal state, the possibility of entering the probable change state after the end of the big hit gaming state (so-called “continuous rate”) is suppressed. However, in the first to thirteenth to thirteenth and fifteenth rounds, the upper limit time for opening the upper prize winning opening (large winning opening opening upper limit time) is set to a sufficiently long time (20 seconds). As a result, the player is given an opportunity to obtain many prize balls (or corresponding scores), and the gaming interest in which the variable display result is “big hit” is enhanced.

  When the special figure display result is “big hit” in the normal state, the big hit type is set to the “first big hit” where the probability variation control condition is difficult to be established at a predetermined rate (50/100). On the other hand, when the special figure display result is “big hit” in the probability variation state, the probability variation control condition is always “second big hit” or “third big hit”. It is possible to provide a sharp gaming experience by suppressing the continuous rate when it is a “hit” and increasing the continuous rate once it is controlled to a probable state.

  In addition, as the types of big hits for which the probability variation control condition is easily established, the second big hits in which the winning balls are paid out in the upper open round and the number of the winning balls that are not paid out (or less than the first big hit or the second big hit) Three big hits are set to increase the big hit variations. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 21 (B), when the probability variation control condition is not satisfied (or the rate at which it is satisfied is low), the opening / closing of the lower large winning door corresponds to “third big hit” as “small hit” different from big hit. By executing such a small hit, even if the lower special variable winning ball apparatus 7B is opened longer than the first big hit, there remains a risk that the probability variation control condition is not satisfied. As described above, the game is prevented from becoming monotonous by executing a plurality of “big hit type” big hit gaming states and “small hit” gaming states different from the big hit gaming state.

  As described above, the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment executes a pachinko game using a plurality of variable winning devices including the lower special variable winning ball device 7B and the upper special variable winning ball device 7A. Specifically, when the probability variation open round is started or when the normal open round is started, the bit is opened by setting only the bit corresponding to the big winning opening to be opened in step S301A of FIG. The variable winning device is controlled to the valid state, and other variable winning means are controlled to the invalid state. When a game ball wins the opened variable winning device, the lower large winning port switch 23B or the upper large winning port switch 23A detects this, and the payout of the winning ball is executed. In a predetermined area of the RAM 102, a bit of S0 set to a value ("1") indicating that the lower great prize opening switch 23B has detected a game ball when the lower big prize opening switch 23B detects a game ball, and the upper big prize opening switch 23A are a game ball. And a switch-on buffer including a bit of S1 set to a value (“1”) indicating that the detection is detected. The RAM 102 further has a bit B0 set to a value (“0”) indicating a valid state when the lower special variable winning ball device 7B is in a valid state, and a case where the upper special variable winning ball device 7A is in a valid state. And an abnormal winning confirmation table including a bit of B1 set to a value (“0”) indicating a valid state. Then, when the lower prize winning switch 23B or the upper prize winning switch 23A detects a game ball, a predetermined operation (logical product operation) is performed with the value of the switch-on buffer and the value of the abnormal winning confirmation table. When the calculation result is “0” as the specific calculation result, it is determined that the winning is valid, and when the calculation result is different from the specific calculation result, the winning is determined to be invalid. According to such a configuration, it is determined whether a winning is valid or invalid for a plurality of variable winning means by a predetermined process, so that security can be increased with a small amount of processing.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 16, the abnormal winning confirmation table is a bit string in which bits are allocated to the lower special variable winning ball device 7B and the upper special variable winning ball device 7A. In step S300B of FIG. 12 and step S573 of FIG. 19, the CPU 103 starts the round game in which the bits (B0 and B1) assigned to the lower special variable winning ball device 7B and the upper special variable winning ball device 7A are started. When the corresponding special variable winning device is controlled to the valid state, it is set to “0” as a value indicating the valid state, while when it is controlled to the invalid state, it is set to “1” as the value indicating the invalid state. To do. According to such a configuration, security can be improved with a minimum storage capacity and calculation amount.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 6B, the switch-on buffer is a bit string (see FIG. 6B) in which bits are assigned to the lower prize winning switch 23B and the upper prize winning switch 23A. When the lower big prize opening switch 23B detects a game ball in step S11 of FIG. 6A, the CPU 103 sets the bit (S0) assigned to the lower big prize opening switch 23B to the upper big prize opening switch 23A. When the game ball is detected, the bit (S1) assigned to the lower big prize opening switch 23B is set to “1” as a value indicating that it has been detected. On the other hand, for any of the bits, when the corresponding big winning opening switch does not detect the game ball, it is set to “0” as a value indicating that it has not been detected. According to such a configuration, security can be improved with a minimum storage capacity and calculation amount.

In addition, the bit assigned to the lower special variable winning device 7B in the abnormal winning confirmation table and the bit assigned to the lower big prize opening switch 23B in the switch-on buffer are both assigned to the same bit address 0. Also, the bit assigned to the upper special variable winning device 7A in the abnormal winning confirmation table and the bit assigned to the upper big prize opening switch 23A in the switch-on buffer are both assigned to the same bit address 1.
According to such a configuration, it is not necessary to adjust the bit position when executing the calculation of step S56, so that security can be improved without the need for complicated calculations.

In addition, the game control microcomputer 100 of this embodiment includes an 8-bit CPU 103. For this reason, 8-bit data having a specific length is collectively processed in a single process. Of the 8-bit data loaded in step S54 in FIG. 23A, the bit information (also referred to as valid / invalid information) assigned to the plurality of special variable winning devices as the abnormal winning confirmation table is less than 8 bits. 2 bits. Of the 8-bit data loaded in step S55, the bit information (both winning / non-winning information) assigned to a plurality of large winning port switches (upper large winning port switch 23A and lower large winning port switch 23B) as a switch-on buffer. Say) is 2 bits less than 8 bits. Here, when executing the logical product operation as the predetermined operation in step S56 of FIG. 23A, the 2-bit data including the valid / invalid information and the 2-bit data including the winning / non-winning information are collectively displayed. The portion of the 8-bit data that is not included in the valid / invalid information and the winning / non-winning information is excluded from the calculation in step S56 by the mask process in step S55A.
According to such a configuration, it is possible to effectively use the storage capacity by using bits that are not included in the valid / invalid information and the winning / non-winning information among the 8-bit data for other purposes.

In addition, when a game ball wins at the lower university winning opening or the upper university winning opening, as a calculation for determining whether the winning is valid or invalid, in steps S56 of FIG. 23A, the bits of S0 and S1 of the switch-on buffer ( The AND operation between the B0 and B1 bits (valid / invalid information) in the abnormal winning confirmation table is executed.
According to such a configuration, security can be improved by a simple calculation.

  The present invention is not limited to the above embodiment, and various modifications and applications are possible. For example, in the pachinko gaming machine 1, as the calculation for determining the validity / invalidity of the winning, in step S56 of FIG. 23A, the S0 and S1 bits (winning presence / absence information) of the switch-on buffer, An AND operation with the bit B1 (valid / invalid information) was executed. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and validity / invalidity may be determined by exclusive OR, logical OR, or a combination thereof. For example, a similar effect can be obtained by obtaining an exclusive OR as a predetermined calculation using the abnormal winning confirmation table and the switch-on buffer that have been subjected to the mask process. In this case, as shown in FIG. 25A, the values of the bit address 0 and the bit address 1 are both “1” in the normal state, but in the abnormal state, as shown in FIG. 25B or FIG. One is “0”. Therefore, in the determination process of step S56A in FIG. 23A, when both the bit address 0 and the bit address 1 of the calculation result are “1”, it is determined that the winning is valid, If it is “0”, it is determined that the winning is invalid and the error processing of steps S57 to S59 may be executed.

  In the above embodiment, the mask process is performed on the value loaded with the abnormal winning confirmation table and the value loaded with the switch-on buffer before performing the logical product operation in step S56 of FIG. However, the timing for executing the mask processing is not limited to this, and after obtaining the logical product in step S56, the value of the bits that are not to be determined (bit address 2 to bit address 7 in the example of the embodiment) is set to “0”. A mask process may be executed.

  Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the bit addresses of the bits assigned to the same winning a prize port (the lower winning a prize opening and the upper winning a prize port) in the abnormal winning confirmation table and the switch-on buffer are the same. However, for example, in the abnormal winning confirmation table, the bit assigned to the lower special prize winning device 7B is assigned to the bit address 1, while the switch-on buffer is assigned to the lower big prize opening switch 23B to the bit address 0. The address may be different between the abnormal winning confirmation table and the switch-on buffer. In this case, in the calculation performed in step S56 in FIG. 23A, the bit assigned to the same big prize opening is loaded in step S54 so that the same address is obtained in the abnormal winning confirmation table and the switch-on buffer. The shift operation may be executed on either the value of the switch-on buffer or the value of the abnormal winning confirmation table loaded in step S55.

  Further, in the above embodiment, on the premise that the mask process as in step S55A of FIG. 23A is executed, out of each bit of the abnormal winning confirmation table and the switch-on buffer, a bit (not used in the calculation performed in step S56) S2 to S7 in FIG. 6B and B2 to BB7 in FIG. 16 were used for different applications. However, instead of using the unused bits for other purposes, the mask processing may be omitted after all the bits are held at “0” as a value representing invalidity. According to such a configuration, the necessary calculation amount can be reduced by omitting the mask process, which is erroneously cut.

  In the above embodiment, in order to notify the effect control board 120 of the change pattern indicating the change mode such as the change time, the type of reach effect, the presence / absence of the pseudo-ream, etc., one change pattern command is given when the change is started. Although an example of transmission is shown, the variation pattern may be notified to the effect control board 120 by two or more commands. Specifically, in the case of notifying by two commands, the gaming control microcomputer 100 uses the first command to indicate whether there is a pseudo-continuity, whether there is a slip effect, etc. before reaching reach (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 board 120 may perform the effect control in the change display based on the change time derived from the combination of the two commands. The game control microcomputer 100 notifies the change time by each of the two commands, and the effect control board 120 selects the specific change mode executed at each timing. Also good. 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.

  The program and data for realizing the present invention are not limited to a form distributed and provided by a detachable recording medium to a computer device included in the gaming machine such as the pachinko gaming machine 1. Alternatively, it may be distributed in a pre-installed manner in a storage device such as a computer device. Furthermore, the program and data for realizing the present invention are distributed by downloading from other devices on a network connected via a communication line or the like by providing a communication processing unit. It doesn't matter.

  The game execution mode is not only executed by attaching a detachable recording medium, but can also be executed by temporarily storing a program and data downloaded via a communication line or the like in an internal memory or the like. It is also possible to execute directly using hardware resources on the other device side on a network connected via a communication line or the like. Furthermore, the game can be executed by exchanging data with other computer devices or the like via a network.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Pachinko machine 2 ... Game area 2A ... Left game area 2B ... Right game area 3 ... Gaming machine frame 4A, 4B ... Special symbol display device 5 ... Image display device 6A ... Ordinary winning ball device 6B ... Ordinary variable winning ball Device 7A ... Upper special variable winning ball device 7B ... Lower special variable winning ball device 8L, 8R ... Speaker 9 ... Game effect lamp 11 ... Main board 12 ... Production control board 13 ... Audio control board 14 ... Lamp control board 15 ... Relay board 21 ... Gate switches 22A, 22B ... Start opening switch 23A ... Upper large prize opening switch 23B ... Lower large prize opening switch 24A ... Probability changing area switch 24B ... Discharge switch 71 ... Lower large winning prize opening door 72 ... Probability changing area cover 81 ... Solenoid ( (For ordinary electric accessories)
82A ... Solenoid (for upper prize winning door)
82B ... Solenoid (for Shimodai prize entrance door)
82C ... Solenoid (for probability variation area lid)
100 ... Game control microcomputers 101, 121 ... ROM
102, 122 ... RAM
103 ... CPU
104, 124 ... random number circuit 105, 125 ... I / O
120 ... CPU for effect control
123 ... Display control unit

Claims (1)

A gaming machine that performs a predetermined game using a game medium,
First variable winning means that can be changed between an open state in which game media are easy to win and a closed state in which game media cannot be won or difficult, an open state in which game media are easy to win, A plurality of variable winning means including a second variable winning means changeable to a possible or difficult closed state;
Based on the establishment of the first opening condition for opening the first variable winning means, the first variable winning means is controlled to the open state, and the second opening condition for opening the second variable winning means is satisfied. Based on that, an opening control means for executing an opening control for controlling the second variable winning means to an opening state,
When the opening control is being executed, the variable winning means controlled to the open state is controlled to the valid state, and another variable winning means is controlled to the invalid state.
First detecting means for detecting a game medium won in the first variable winning means;
Second detecting means for detecting a game medium won in the second variable winning means;
The first detection presence / absence information set to a value indicating detection when the first detection means detects a winning game medium, and the detection when the second detection means detects a winning game medium. Winning presence / absence storage means for storing winning / non-winning information including second winning / non-winning information set to a value indicating
The first valid / invalid information set to a value indicating whether the first variable winning means is valid or invalid, and indicates whether the second variable winning means is valid or invalid. Valid / invalid storage means for storing variable prize valid / invalid information including second valid / invalid information set to a value;
When the first detection means or the second detection means detects a game medium, a predetermined calculation is executed with the winning / non-winning information and the variable winning validity / invalidity information, and the calculation result becomes a specific calculation result. A winning validity / invalidity determining means for determining that the winning is invalid if the calculation result is different from the specific calculation result,
Equipped with a,
The variable prize valid / invalid information is a bit string in which bits are assigned to the first valid / invalid information and the second valid / invalid information,
The bit of the variable prize valid / invalid information assigned to the first valid / invalid information and the second valid / invalid information is used as a value indicating the invalid state when the corresponding variable winning means is controlled to the invalid state. further comprising a game machine according to claim Rukoto while set to 1, the effective invalidation information setting means for setting to zero as the value indicating the valid state when being controlled to enable the state of.

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