JP6285507B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

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

  A type of gaming machine (pachinko machine) performs a jackpot lottery (winning determination) based on the establishment of the start condition, and when a jackpot is won, a jackpot game with the opening of a big prize opening is performed as a kind of special game . A large number of prize balls can be obtained by winning game balls at the big prize opening. The result of the jackpot lottery is shown to the player in the symbol stop mode after the symbol change display on the symbol display means.

  In gaming machines, operation means that can be operated by the player are often provided, and effects using operations on the operation means are often performed (see Patent Document 1 below). For example, an operation effective period in which the operation is effective is set, and a cut-in image is displayed according to the operation during the operation effective period.

  On the other hand, game machines are often configured in a form in which a game board is fitted into a game frame (see Patent Document 2 below). In the shipping inspection of gaming machines, the operation of each part provided in the gaming frame and the gaming board is checked.

JP 2013-236848 A JP 2013-056284 A

  The operation means is generally configured in the form of a button or a lever, and is not limited to the operation valid period, and the operation means itself can be operated (for example, a pressing operation, a lowering operation, and a pushing operation are possible). There are many. However, for example, if the gaming machine is provided with operating means that cannot be classified as such general operating means, it is considered that some contrivance is required.

  In addition, in a gaming machine composed of a game frame and a game board, it is desired to introduce a useful method that has been devised when checking the operation of parts.

  An object of this invention is to provide the gaming machine which can bring about a useful effect by device.

The gaming machine according to the present invention can be operated by a player, an operation means that changes state from the first state to the second state in response to an input of the operation, a restriction means that can restrict the state change, An effect execution means for controlling the restriction means and executing a predetermined effect in response to an input of the operation, wherein the restriction means is capable of releasing the restriction for a predetermined period. When the operation means is not in the first state at the start of the predetermined period, the release of the restriction is reserved.
In addition, the gaming machine according to the present invention can be operated by a player, and an operation unit that changes a state from a first state to a second state in response to an input of the operation; a limiting unit that can limit the state change; And an effect executing means for controlling the restricting means and executing a predetermined effect in response to an input of the operation, wherein the restricting means can release the restriction for a predetermined period. And after the end of the predetermined period, the restriction is executed when the operation means is in the first state, while the restriction is reserved if the operation means is not in the first state. To do.

  According to the present invention, it is an object to provide a gaming machine that can bring about a beneficial effect by contrivance.

1 is a front view of a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is explanatory drawing of the shutter accessory provided in the gaming machine. It is explanatory drawing of the arm-shaped accessory provided in the gaming machine. It is a block diagram of the part in connection with control of the game machine which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is the figure which listed some processes performed in the main control part of a gaming machine. It is explanatory drawing of the determination table per special figure in the main control part of a game machine. It is the figure which listed a part of process performed in the production | presentation control part of a game machine. It is a figure which shows the type of jackpot based on embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing of operation to a long button concerning 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing of the sensor and locking mechanism which concern on 1st Embodiment of this invention, and relates to a long button. It is a figure for demonstrating the state change accompanying the pushing operation to a left elongate button, and the output signal level change of a position sensor concerning 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure for demonstrating the state change accompanying the pushing operation to a right elongate button, and the output signal level change of a position sensor concerning 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure for demonstrating the outline | summary of the lock release state of the lock mechanism provided corresponding to the elongate button, and a lock action state concerning 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the example of a relationship between a long button and a lock mechanism in connection with 1st Embodiment of this invention, when the lock mechanism provided corresponding to the long button is a lock operation state. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of a lock mechanism according to the first embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure which concerns on 1st Embodiment of this invention and shows the output signal level of the lock sensor corresponding to the state of a lock mechanism. It is explanatory drawing of a decoration design. It is a figure which shows the relationship between a change production and the change of a decoration design. It is a figure which shows the flow of the fluctuation production including a reach production. It is explanatory drawing of the left button operation effect which concerns on 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing of the right button operation effect which concerns on 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the control method of a locking mechanism according to the output signal level of the position sensor in the 1st and 2nd determination timing matched with the operation effective period of the left button operation effect. It is a figure for demonstrating the control method of the lock mechanism in connection with the operation effective period of the left button operation effect. It is a partial functional block diagram of the gaming machine related to the state control of the lock mechanism. It is an operation | movement flowchart of the production main control part in connection with a left button operation production. It is a flowchart of the lock control process regarding a left button operation effect. It is a figure which shows the special figure fluctuation pattern table in connection with one Example in 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the high-low relationship of the expectation degree of jackpot in connection with one Example in 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which concerns on 2nd Embodiment of this invention and shows the schematic relationship of the outer frame, inner frame, door frame, and game board in a gaming machine. It is a figure which shows a mode that the light is matched with each of several button concerning 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is a detailed block diagram of the operation key according to the second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a gaming machine according to the second embodiment of the present invention, and shows a block diagram of a part that is particularly involved in the operation of the gaming machine in an inspection mode. 12 is an operation flowchart of the gaming machine (inspection processing unit) in the inspection mode according to the second embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure which concerns on 2nd Embodiment of this invention and shows the flow of an inspector's work process in a frame inspection process. It is an operation | movement flowchart of the inspection process part in 2nd Embodiment of this invention in a frame inspection process. It is an operation | movement flowchart of the inspection process part in 2nd Embodiment of this invention in a frame inspection process. It is explanatory drawing regarding the 2nd Embodiment of this invention, and the output change of the position sensor with respect to pushing operation of a right long button, and the luminescent color change of a right frame light. 12 is a flowchart of right long button inspection processing included in the frame inspection processing according to the second embodiment of the present invention. It is a flowchart of the left elongate button test | inspection process which concerns on 2nd Embodiment of this invention and is contained in a frame test | inspection process.

  Hereinafter, an example of an embodiment of the present invention will be specifically described with reference to the drawings. In each of the drawings to be referred to, the same part is denoted by the same reference numeral, and redundant description regarding the same part is omitted in principle. In this specification, for simplification of description, the names of information, signals, physical quantities, members, etc. corresponding to the symbols or signs are indicated by writing symbols or signs referring to information, signals, physical quantities, members, etc. Omitted or abbreviated. Further, in an arbitrary flowchart described later, a plurality of processes in any of a plurality of steps can be arbitrarily changed in execution order or can be executed in parallel as long as no contradiction occurs in the processing contents.

  An embodiment suitable for a gaming machine according to the present invention will be described in detail. In this embodiment, the gaming machine according to the present invention is applied to a gaming machine (so-called digipachi) belonging to the former first type.

<< Basic configuration of gaming machine >>
FIG. 1 is a front view of a gaming machine 100 according to the present embodiment. A basic configuration of the gaming machine 100 will be described with reference to FIG. The gaming machine 100 includes the game board 101 and the constituent members shown in FIG. Note that the top, bottom, left, and right refer to the top, bottom, left, and right viewed from the player facing the gaming machine 100 and the game board 101 unless otherwise specified. Both the vertical direction and the horizontal direction are parallel to the board surface of the game board 101. The vertical direction is parallel to the vertical direction, and the horizontal direction is parallel to the horizontal direction. Unless stated otherwise, the front refers to the player closest to the game machine 100 and the game board 101, and the rear refers to the player facing the game machine 100 and the game board 101 unless otherwise specified. Point farther away.

  The gaming machine 100 is a pachinko gaming machine, and includes an outer frame 10 attached to an island structure disposed in a gaming facility, an inner frame 11 attached to the outer frame 10 so as to be openable and closable, and an inner frame 11. And a door frame 12 that can be freely opened and closed. The door frame 12 is formed with a window portion 12a in which a transparent glass plate is fitted so that a substantially entire game area 103 to be described later can be visually recognized from the front (player side). The game board 101 is detachably attached to the inner frame 11. At a lower position of the game board 101, a launching unit for launching a game ball is disposed (the detailed structure of the launching unit is not shown).

  The game ball launched upward by the driving of the launch unit rises between the rails 102a and 102b and reaches the upper position of the game board 101, and then falls (flows down) in the game area 103 formed in the game board 101. It is supposed to be. The game area 103 is provided with a plurality of nails (not shown), and the game balls are dropped by the nails while changing the moving direction in an unspecified direction. Further, in the game board 101, a game ball drop path in the game area 103 includes a windmill (not shown) that changes the direction of the game ball fall, a first start port 105, a second start port 106, an electric tulip 107, A gate 108, a special winning opening 111, and a normal winning opening 112 are provided. In the game board 101, an image display unit 104 composed of a liquid crystal display panel or the like capable of displaying various effect images including decorative symbols is disposed at a substantially central portion.

  The start ports 105 and 106 are installed below the image display unit 104 and form a start region through which game balls can pass (winning is possible). The right to receive a special figure determination (determination as to whether or not to play a jackpot game) is acquired when a predetermined first start condition or second start condition is satisfied. The first and second start conditions are satisfied when the game balls win the start openings 105 and 106, respectively. In addition, when the gaming machine 100 detects a winning game ball at the start port 105 or 106, the gaming machine 100 pays out a predetermined number (for example, three) of gaming balls. A game ball that is paid out due to a winning of a game ball to the start opening 105, 106, the big winning opening 111 or the normal winning opening 112 is also referred to as a winning ball. It should be noted that winning may be read as winning.

  An electric tulip 107 is provided in the vicinity of the second start port 106. The electric tulip 107 is in a closed state (a closed state) that makes it difficult to win the game ball to the second start port 106, and an open state (open state) that makes it easier to win the game ball in the second start port 106 than in the closed state. ) In either state. In effect, when the electric tulip 107 is in the closed state, it is impossible to win the game ball into the second starting port 106, and only when the electric tulip 107 is in the open state, the second starting of the game ball is started. Winning to the mouth 106 becomes possible. The opening of the electric tulip 107 is also referred to as the opening of the electric tulip 107. The electric tulip 107 is opened based on the result of the usual game determination performed by the game ball passing through the gate 108 arranged on the right side of the image display unit 104.

  A big prize opening 111 is provided on the right side of the first start port 105 and the second start port 106. The grand prize opening 111 can also be opened and closed like the electric tulip 107, and a closed state (a closed state) that makes it difficult to win the game ball to the big prize opening 111, and a larger game ball than the closed state. One of the open states (open state) that makes it easy to win the winning opening 111 is taken. In effect, when the grand prize opening 111 is in the closed state, it is impossible to win the game ball into the big prize opening 111, and only when the big prize opening 111 is in the open state, the prize winning of the game ball is won. Winning to the mouth 111 is possible. The opening of the big prize opening 111 is also referred to as the opening of the big prize opening 111. The big winning opening 111 is normally closed, and when winning a jackpot, a predetermined number of round games (for example, 30 seconds have passed or 10 game balls have been won) are opened until a predetermined condition is satisfied (for example, winning 10 game balls). Repeat 16 times). When the gaming machine 100 detects a gaming ball that has won a prize winning slot 111, the gaming machine 100 pays out a predetermined number (for example, 14) of winning balls.

  One or more normal winning openings 112 are installed on the side or lower side of the image display unit 104. The gaming machine 100 pays out a predetermined number (for example, five) of winning balls when detecting a winning in the normal winning opening 112. At the bottom of the game area 103, there is provided a collection port 113 for collecting game balls that have not won any of the first start port 105, the second start port 106, the big winning port 111 and the normal winning port 112. Yes. An information display unit 114 is provided in the lower right portion of the game board 101. In addition, the installation position of each component on the game board 101 can be arbitrarily changed.

  In the door frame 12, an outer peripheral portion includes a speaker unit 115 (see FIG. 4) including speakers 115L, 115R, and 115C, an effect light unit 116 (see FIG. 4) including a left frame light 116L, a right frame light 116R, and a center frame light 116C. 4), and a movable frame accessory 117 is incorporated, and they are used for arbitrary effects. In the door frame 12, a box-like body 140 protruding toward the player is provided above the game board 101, and a speaker 115 </ b> C as a bus speaker is built in the box-like body 140. In the door frame 12, speakers 115 </ b> L and 115 </ b> R are installed on the upper left part and upper right part of the game board 101, respectively. The speakers 115L and 115R form a stereo speaker for reproducing and outputting an acoustic signal having a higher frequency than that of the speaker 115C. The lights 116C, 116L, and 116R are formed of light emitting diodes or the like, and can emit light in a plurality of emission colors independently. In the door frame 12, a center frame light 116C is installed on the front side of the box-shaped body 140, and a left frame light 116L and a right frame light 116R are installed on the left and right sides of the game board 101, respectively. In the door frame 12, the movable frame accessory 117 is installed on the right side of the box-shaped body 140 and on the upper right side of the game board 101.

  In the door frame 12, an operation handle 119 is disposed at the lower right position. The operation handle 119 has a shape that protrudes toward the player, and a firing instruction member 120 is provided on the outer periphery thereof. The firing instruction member 120 is rotatably supported by the operation handle 119. When a player fires a game ball, the player rotates the firing instruction member 120 clockwise. At this time, the player can adjust the firing strength of the game ball according to the angle at which the firing instruction member 120 is rotated. Below the game area 103 in the door frame 12, in addition to the production button 121 (see FIG. 4) including the left long button 121L, the center button 121C and the right long button 121R, and the operation keys 122, An upper plate (hit ball supply plate) 123, an upper plate lever 124, a lower plate (excess ball receiving plate) 125, a lower plate lever 126 and the like used for delivery are provided. The left long button 121L, the center button 121C, the right long button 121R, and the operation key 122 constitute an operation input unit (which may be referred to as an operation reception unit or an operation unit) that receives an operation input from the player. .

  The result of special figure determination is indicated by a special symbol, and the result of general figure determination is indicated by a normal symbol. There are first and second special symbols as special symbols. The right of special figure determination based on the establishment of the first start condition is reserved up to a predetermined number (here, 4), and the number of the reserved rights is referred to as the number of reserved information U1. The right of special figure determination based on the establishment of the second start condition is reserved up to a predetermined number (here, 4), and the number of the reserved rights is referred to as the number of reserved information U2. The right to make a determination as to whether the game ball has passed through the gate 108 is reserved up to a predetermined number (here, 4), and the number of the reserved rights is referred to as the number of reserved information U3.

  The information display unit 114 includes a special symbol display unit that displays the first and second special symbols, a normal symbol display unit that displays normal symbols, a hold display unit that displays the number of hold information U1 to U3, a round number display unit, and a right Each of the display units can be formed with an LED (Light Emitting Diode) display.

  2 (a) and 2 (b) and FIGS. 3 (a) and 3 (b), the game board 101 includes a movable board accessory 130 (see FIG. 4) including a shutter accessory 130a and an arm-like accessory 130b. ) Is provided. Each of the above-described frame movable accessory 117, shutter accessory 130a, and arm-like accessory 130b is a movable accessory. The movable accessory is in a reference state as a general rule, and is activated when activated. The operating state is a state in which at least one of a change in shape and a change in position of the movable accessory has occurred as viewed from the reference state. A gap in the front-rear direction exists between the game board 101 in which the game area 103 is formed and the image display unit 104, and a shutter accessory 130a and an arm-like accessory 130b are arranged in the gap.

  2A is a front view of the shutter accessory 130a in a non-operating state (that is, a reference state), and FIG. 2B is a front view of the shutter accessory 130a in an operating state (that is, an operating state). It is. In the reference state, the shutter accessory 130a is folded, and all or a part of the shutter accessory 130a is hidden behind the opaque game board 101 when viewed from the player, or is invisible or difficult to see (at least activated). It is harder to see than the state). In the operating state, the shutter accessory 130a is unfolded and advances to the front side of the image display unit 104 so that the entire or substantially entire shutter accessory 130a is visible to the player. In FIG. 2A, the shutter accessory 130a hidden behind the game board 101 is indicated by a broken line.

  FIG. 3A is a front view of the arm-shaped accessory 130b in a non-operating state (that is, a reference state), and FIG. 3B is a front view of the arm-shaped accessory 130b in an operating state (that is, an operating state). It is a front view. In the reference state, all or a part of the arm-shaped accessory 130b is hidden behind the opaque game board 101 when viewed from the player and is invisible or difficult to see (at least more difficult to see than in the operating state). . In the operating state, the arm-shaped accessory 130b advances to the front side of the image display unit 104, and the entire or substantially entire arm-shaped accessory 130b is visible to the player. In FIG. 3A, the arm-shaped accessory 130b hidden behind the game board 101 is indicated by a broken line.

<< Basic operation of gaming machine >>
Next, the basic operation of the gaming machine 100 will be described. The gaming machine 100 acquires special figure determination information when the first or second start condition is satisfied, and performs special figure determination based on the special figure determination information. Acquisition of special figure determination information corresponds to acquisition of special figure determination right. The special figure determination includes determination of whether or not the jackpot has been won (whether or not the jackpot has been won or lost). In addition, the winning of the jackpot may be expressed as the occurrence of the jackpot (the same applies to the jackpot described later). In addition, the fact that a certain special figure determination information is won in a jackpot may be expressed as the special figure determination information is a big hit (the same applies to a small hit described later). When the special figure determination is performed based on the special figure determination information acquired by the establishment of the first and second start conditions, the gaming machine 100 displays the first and second special symbols variably for a predetermined time, respectively. The first and second special symbols are stopped and displayed in a manner showing the result of the special figure determination.

  When the gaming machine 100 displays the special symbol (first or second special symbol) in a variable manner, the gaming machine 100 displays the decorative symbol in a variable manner on the image display unit 104, and stops the decorative symbol in accordance with the stop display of the special symbol. Display. The decorative symbols displayed on the image display unit 104 include first to third decorative symbols, and each decorative symbol is associated with a numerical value or a symbol. For example, if a special symbol is stopped and displayed in a manner showing a big hit when a big hit occurs, the first to third decorative symbols are displayed in a manner showing a big hit (for example, a so-called doublet such as “7, 7, 7”). To stop display. At this time, the combination of the first to third decorative symbols that are stopped and displayed may differ depending on the type of jackpot that has occurred. When the result of the special figure determination is a loss (that is, when the jackpot is not won), the first to third decorative symbols are stopped at, for example, a so-called scatter pattern indicating a loss. The loose eye refers to a state in which two or three of the first to third decorative symbols are non-common symbols.

  When the special symbol is stopped and displayed in a manner indicating a jackpot, the gaming machine 100 enters a jackpot gaming state. In the jackpot game state, a jackpot game is executed in which a round game that opens the jackpot 111 is executed for a round (for example, 16 rounds) according to the type of the jackpot that has been won. When a game ball wins the big prize opening 111 while the big prize opening 111 is opened, the gaming machine 100 pays out a predetermined number of prize balls. The jackpot game state ends when the jackpot game ends. Games that involve the opening of the big prize opening 111 (including a big hit game and may include a small prize game described later) are given a chance to obtain a prize ball by winning a game ball at the big prize opening 111. It can be said that it is more advantageous for the player than a game that does not involve opening the mouth 111 (for example, a game in a normal gaming state). The advantage here means that the player can easily obtain more prize balls (the expected value of the prize balls to be obtained is large) as the special winning opening 111 is opened.

  Special figure determination is not performed during the jackpot game. In the jackpot game state, the game is played by right-handed. “Right hit” means that a game ball is launched into a game area on the right side of the center line that divides the game area 103 left and right in the game area 103. On the other hand, left-handed strike means that a game ball is launched into the game area on the left side of the center line in the game area 103. In the left-handed game board 101 is formed so that a game ball can be won at the first start opening 105 but a game ball cannot be won at the second start opening 106 and the big winning opening 111. Has been. The game board 101 is formed so that a game ball can be won at the second starting port 106 and the big winning port 111, but a game ball cannot be won at the first starting port 105 by right-handed. Has been. The gate 108 is a right region in the game region 103 and is disposed above the special winning opening 111. Therefore, in the left strike, the game ball cannot pass through the gate 108, and only the right hit game ball can pass through the gate 108.

  After the jackpot game ends, the gaming machine 100 returns to a state in which special figure determination is performed. At this time, the gaming state of the gaming machine 100 can be changed.

<< Game state of gaming machine >>
The gaming machine 100 has a low probability non-power support game state (normal game state), a low probability power support game state, and a high probability non-power except for game states (including a jackpot game state) that are associated with the opening of the big prize opening 111. Any of the support game state and the high probability electric support game state may be taken. The gaming state in the initial state of the gaming machine 100 is a low probability non-electric support game state. By using the RAM clear switch provided on the back of the gaming board 101 to initialize the gaming information of the gaming machine 100, the gaming machine 100 enters an initial state.

  The low probability non-electric support game state and the low probability electric support game state belong to the low probability game state. The high probability non-electric support game state and the high probability electric support game state belong to the high probability game state. The probability that it is determined that the jackpot is won in the special figure determination is higher in the high probability gaming state than in the low probability gaming state. Therefore, the high probability gaming state is more advantageous to the player than the low probability gaming state with respect to the likelihood of winning the jackpot (ease of playing the jackpot game).

  The low probability electric support game state and the high probability electric support game state belong to the electric support game state. In the electric support game state, the gaming machine 100 provides a game support function (hereinafter referred to as “electric support”) that involves opening and closing the electric tulip 107 (that is, the electric support is activated). When the electric support is given, compared with the time when it is not so, the fluctuation time of the normal symbol is shortened, the winning probability per common figure in the common figure determination (and therefore, the opening frequency of the electric tulip 107 is increased), and The opening time of the electric tulip 107 is increased, and as a result, in the electric support game state, it becomes easier for the game ball to win the second start port 106 than in the non-electric support game state where no electric support is given. In the electric support game state, a game is performed by the above-mentioned right strike, and the trigger for the special figure determination is mainly a winning to the second start opening 106.

  The low probability non-electric support game state and the high probability non-electric support game state belong to a non-electric support game state to which no electric support is given. In the non-electric support game state, the game is performed by left-handed as described above, and the trigger for the special figure determination is mainly a winning to the first start opening 105. As understood from the above description, the electric support game state is a game state in which the start condition (second start condition) is more easily established than the non-electric support game state. Therefore, the electric support game state is more advantageous to the player than the non-electric support game state with respect to the ease of establishment of the start condition.

<< Internal structure of gaming machine >>
The internal configuration of the gaming machine 100 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a part related to control in the gaming machine 100. As shown in FIG. 4, the control unit 400 provided in the gaming machine 100 includes a main control unit 401 that controls the progress of the game, a prize ball control unit 402 that controls the payout of prize balls, and an effect that controls the contents of the effect. And a control unit 403. In addition to the control unit 400, each component shown in FIG.

[1. Main control unit]
The main control unit 401 includes a main CPU (Central Processing Unit) 411, a main ROM (Read Only Memory) 412, and a main RAM (Random Access Memory) 413. The main ROM 412 stores a table group including tables TAt, TZt, THt, and DKt, and the main RAM 413 includes a storage area group including storage areas 413a and 413b.

  The main controller 401 is connected to various switches (hereinafter abbreviated as “SW”) for detecting a game ball. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 4, the main control unit 401 has a first start for detecting a game ball won in the first start opening 105, the second start opening 106, the big winning opening 111, and the normal winning opening 112. The mouth SW 414a, the second start opening SW 414b, the big prize opening SW 416, the normal prize opening SW 417, and the gate SW 415 for detecting the game ball passing through the gate 108 are connected, and the detection signal indicating the detection result of each SW is the main. It is sent to the control unit 401.

  The main control unit 401 is connected to various solenoids that drive the electric combination on the game board 101. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 4, an electric tulip solenoid 420 that opens and closes the electric tulip 107 and a big prize opening solenoid 421 that opens and closes the big prize opening 111 are connected to the main control unit 401. The main control unit 401 uses the electric tulip solenoid 420 to open and close the electric tulip 107 based on the result of the common figure determination, and uses the big prize opening solenoid 421 based on the result of the special figure determination to Open and close operation is realized. An information display unit 114 is connected to the main control unit 401. The main control unit 401 performs display control of the information display unit 114 based on the result of the special figure determination, the result of the common figure determination, and the number of held information U1, U2, and U3.

[1-1. Main processing]
FIG. 5 lists the main processes performed by the main control unit 401. When power is supplied to the gaming machine 100, the main process is executed by the main CPU 411. In the main process, an initial setting process of various devices in the main control unit 401 and a backup information generation process are performed, and the processing results are stored in the main RAM 413.

[1-2. Timer interrupt processing]
The main CPU 411 interrupts and executes a timer interrupt process for the main process at a period (for example, a period of several milliseconds or less) set in the main process (see FIG. 5). In the timer interrupt process, the main CPU 411 sequentially executes a random number update process, a switch process, a special symbol process, a normal symbol process, an electric accessory control process, a prize ball process, and an output process.

[1-2-1. Random number update processing]
The main control unit 401 includes a special figure random number counter C1 for counting special figure random numbers, a special figure random number counter C2 for counting special figure random numbers, and a special figure fluctuation pattern random number counter C3 for counting special figure fluctuation pattern random numbers. In addition, a random number counter C4 for counting a random number per common figure and a general symbol random number counter C5 for counting a random number of common symbols are provided. In the random number update process, the count value of each random number counter is “1”. Is added to update the count value of each random number counter. In each of the random number counters C1 to C5, when the count value of the counter exceeds a predetermined upper limit value, the count value of the counter is returned to “0”, and thereafter the same count up is performed. Note that the arbitrary random number in the present embodiment takes only an integer value unless otherwise specified.

[1-2-2. Switch processing]
The switch process will be described (see FIG. 5). In the switch process, the main CPU 411 sequentially executes a start opening switch process, a gate switch process, a big winning opening switch process, and a normal winning opening switch process.

  In the start port switch process, the main CPU 411 uses the start ports SW 414a and SW 414b to count at the timing when the winning of the game ball to the start port 105 or 106 is detected (that is, when the first or second start condition is satisfied). Obtains the count values of C1 to C3 and stores the special figure determination information including the acquired count values of the counters C1 to C3 as a random number per special figure, a special figure random number, and a special figure variation pattern random number. It memorize | stores in the area | region 413a. The storage area 413a can store the special figure determination information based on the establishment of the first start condition and the special figure determination information based on the establishment of the second start condition, with a predetermined number as an upper limit. Here, it is assumed that the predetermined number is four. Therefore, the storage area 413a can store up to eight pieces of special figure determination information. The numbers of special figure determination information triggered by the establishment of the first and second start conditions in the storage area 413a correspond to the above-described holding information numbers U1 and U2, respectively. In addition, a priority order for receiving special figure determination is set for each special figure determination information stored in the storage area 413a. Basically, a higher priority is set for the special figure determination information acquired earlier in time. However, it is assumed that a higher priority is set for the special figure determination information acquired when the second start condition is satisfied as compared to the special figure determination information acquired when the first start condition is satisfied. The prior determination process executed in the start port switch process will be described later.

  In the gate switch process, the main CPU 411 obtains the count values of the counters C4 and C5 at the timing when the passing of the game ball to the gate 108 is detected, and uses the obtained count values of the counters C4 and C5 as a random number and a common number per figure. The common figure determination information included as a symbol random number is stored in the general figure determination information storage area 413b. The storage area 413b can store general-purpose determination information with a predetermined number as an upper limit. Here, it is assumed that the predetermined number is four. The number of general-purpose determination information in the storage area 413b corresponds to the hold information number U3. A priority order for receiving the common figure determination is set for each piece of common figure determination information stored in the storage area 413b. A higher priority is set for the information for determining ordinary drawings acquired earlier in time.

  In the big prize opening switch process, the main CPU 411 detects a game ball won in the big prize opening 111 by the big prize opening SW416. In the normal winning opening switch process, the main CPU 411 detects a game ball won in the normal winning opening 112 by the normal winning opening SW417.

[1-2-3. Special design processing]
In the special symbol process, the main CPU 411 acquires, as the determination target TT, the special figure determination information set with the highest priority among the special figure determination information stored in the special figure determination information storage area 413a. The special figure determination is executed for the determination target TT. At this time, the special figure determination information that is the determination target TT is deleted from the storage area 413a. The special figure determination includes a special figure determination, a special symbol determination, and a special fluctuation pattern determination. Then, in the special symbol processing, after the special symbol variation display is performed for the variation time indicated by the special symbol variation pattern selected by the special symbol variation pattern determination, the determination result per special symbol and the determination result of the special symbol determination are shown. To stop the special symbol. The result of the special figure determination can be stored in the main RAM 413. In the special symbol processing, when the special symbol determination information is not stored in the storage area 413a, the special symbol processing is finished without performing the special symbol determination. Also, the special symbol determination is not performed when the special symbol is displayed in a variable manner or when a game involving the opening of the special winning opening 111 is performed.

  When the main CPU 411 starts the variation display of the special symbol, the main CPU 411 instructs the production control unit 403 to start the execution of the variation effect by setting the variation start command including the result of the special symbol determination in the main RAM 413. When the change is stopped, a change stop command is set in the main RAM 413 to instruct the effect control unit 403 to end the execution of the change effect. These commands set in the RAM 413 are output to the effect control unit 403 in an output process (see FIG. 5) described later.

  With reference to FIG. 6, determination per special figure is performed using a special figure determination table TAt including a low probability special figure determination table TAt1 and a high probability special figure determination table TAt2. Each of the tables TAt1 and TAt2 has a predetermined determination value associated with the jackpot. When the high probability game flag is set to OFF at the time of determination per special figure, the main CPU 411 makes a determination per special figure using the table TAt1, and when the high probability game flag is set to ON. Determination per special figure is performed using the table TAt2. Then, the main CPU 411 determines that the jackpot has been won if the random number per special figure of the determination target TT matches the determination value associated with the jackpot, otherwise it is a loss (that is, the jackpot is won) Not). The gaming state of the gaming machine 100 is a high probability gaming state when the high probability gaming flag is ON, and a low probability gaming state when the high probability gaming flag is OFF. Here, it is determined per special figure so that the winning probability of winning the jackpot (that is, the probability determined to play the jackpot game) is 1/300 and 1/30 in the low probability gaming state and the high probability gaming state, respectively. Assume that a table TAt is formed.

  In addition, the gaming machine 100 may be formed so that a small hit can occur, and in this case, the main CPU 411 also determines a small hit in the special figure determination. The small hit is not a big hit, but is a specific lose represented by a special symbol in a mode different from a normal lose (a loss other than the small hit). The main CPU 411 determines that the winning unit is won when the random number per special figure of the determination target TT matches the determination value associated with the small unit. For example, it is possible to reduce the winning probability per unit to 1/300 without depending on ON / OFF of the high probability game flag.

  In the special symbol determination, the main CPU 411 compares the special symbol determination table TZt with the special symbol random number of the determination target TT, and determines in which symbol the special symbol is stopped based on the comparison result. . There are a plurality of types of jackpots, and when the jackpot is won, the jackpot type is determined based on the comparison result.

  In the special figure fluctuation pattern determination, the special figure fluctuation pattern for the determination target TT is determined based on the special figure fluctuation pattern table THt and the random number per special figure, the special symbol random number, and the special figure fluctuation pattern random number of the determination target TT. The determination of the special figure fluctuation pattern is synonymous with the selection or setting of the special figure fluctuation pattern. The special figure fluctuation pattern table THt includes a plurality of special figure fluctuation patterns, and one special figure fluctuation pattern for the determination target TT is selected in the special figure fluctuation pattern determination. Each special symbol variation pattern defines a variation pattern of a special symbol, and defines, for example, a variation time of the special symbol (the length of time during which the variation display of the special symbol is performed).

[Pre-judgment process in start-up switch process]
Further, the main CPU 411 executes a pre-determination process during the start port switch process (see FIG. 5). In the pre-determination process, the main CPU 411 sets, as a pre-determination target, the special-determination determination information that is stored in the special-determination determination information storage area 413a and is put on hold, and the pre-determination target is determined per special figure. The special symbol design determination and the special symbol variation pattern determination are sequentially executed. The methods of the per-special determination, the special symbol design determination, and the special-figure variation pattern determination for the prior determination target (these determinations are collectively referred to as prior determination) are the same as those for the determination target TT. The result of the prior determination is stored in the main RAM 413. The result of the prior determination is included in a hold increase command (also referred to as a prior determination command), the hold increase command is set in the main RAM 413, and is transmitted to the effect control unit 403 in an output process described later. The holding increase command includes information indicating which of the holding information numbers U1 and U2 has increased in addition to the result of the prior determination. The pre-determination process for certain special figure determination information is executed in the start-up switch process before the special figure determination information is acquired and stored in the storage area 413a. Therefore, the prior determination for any special figure determination information is executed before the special figure determination is executed for the special figure determination information.

[1-2-4. Normal symbol processing]
The normal symbol processing (see FIG. 5) will be described. In the normal symbol processing, the main CPU 411 obtains the information for determining the common figure set with the highest priority in the general-purpose information storage area 413b as the general-purpose determination target FF, and determines the general-purpose determination in the main ROM 412. Based on the table and the FF for which the normal pattern is determined, a general pattern determination consisting of a general pattern determination, a general symbol determination, and a general pattern variation pattern determination is executed. Display stop display. The information for determining the normal map that has become the target FF for normal map determination is deleted from the storage area 413b. In the normal symbol process, when the general pattern determination information is not stored in the storage area 413b, the normal symbol process is terminated without performing the general symbol determination. Further, the normal symbol determination is not performed when the normal symbol variation display is performed and when the game (auxiliary game) for opening the electric tulip 107 is performed. In the determination per common figure, it is determined whether or not the winning per common figure is won. When winning per common figure, the type per common figure is determined by the universal symbol determination. There are two types of per map: per long open and short open. The time for the electric tulip 107 to be in the open state is longer per long opening than per short opening. The main CPU 411 displays the variation of the normal symbol for the variation time based on the result of the normal pattern variation pattern determination, and then stops and displays the normal symbol in a manner showing the result of the normal symbol hit determination and the general symbol determination.

[1-2-5. Electric accessory control processing]
In the electric accessory control process (see FIG. 5), the big prize opening process and the electric chew process are sequentially executed. In the special winning a prize opening process, when the result of the special figure determination indicates that a big win is won, the special winning opening 111 is opened and closed using a big winning opening opening pattern corresponding to the type of the big win. In the big prize opening pattern table DKt, a big prize opening pattern defining the opening mode of the big prize opening 111 is stored for each type of jackpot. When the gaming machine 100 is configured so that a small winning can occur, the big winning opening opening pattern for the small winning is also stored in the big winning opening pattern table DKt, and the result of the special figure determination shows the winning of the small winning When the player wins, the special winning opening 111 is opened and closed using the small winning special winning opening opening pattern. The main CPU 411 realizes the big prize opening process with reference to the table DKt.

  The jackpot game with the opening of the big winning opening 111 is started after the special symbol is stopped and displayed in a manner showing the jackpot. In the jackpot game, until the opening time of the big winning opening 111 reaches a predetermined maximum opening time (predetermined time; for example, 30 seconds) or until the number of winning game balls to the big winning opening 111 reaches a predetermined value (for example, ten). A round game that opens the grand prize winning hole 111 is executed Rmax times with a predetermined interval period (in other words, an interval time). Therefore, it can be considered that the jackpot game includes round games for Rmax. Rmax represents the number of rounds according to the type of jackpot. When a predetermined ending period (in other words, ending time; for example, 5 seconds) elapses after the last round game ends, the game state returns to a state in which special figure determination can be performed.

  In addition, the game state setting process (see FIG. 5) is executed in the big prize opening process during the jackpot game or after the jackpot game. In the game state setting process, the main CPU 411 sets the state of various game flags stored in the main RAM 413 including the high probability game flag and the electric support game flag. As described above, the gaming state of the gaming machine 100 is a high probability gaming state when the high probability gaming flag is ON, and a low probability gaming state when the high probability gaming flag is OFF. The gaming state of the gaming machine 100 is an electric support game state when the electric support game flag is ON, and a non-electric support game state when the electric support game flag is OFF. In the game state setting process during the big prize opening process that is executed in response to the occurrence of the jackpot, the high-probability game flag and the electric support game flag are turned on according to the game state at the time of the jackpot occurrence or the type of jackpot that has occurred / OFF is set, and a high probability game remaining number X indicating the remaining number of fluctuations of the special symbol in which the high probability gaming state is maintained and an electric number indicating the remaining number of fluctuations in the special symbol in which the electric support game state is maintained. The number of remaining support games J is set in the main RAM 413.

  The high probability remaining game count X set in the game state setting process is subtracted by “1” every time the special figure determination is executed when “X ≧ 1”, and becomes “X = 0”. The high probability game flag is set to OFF, and the gaming state of the gaming machine 100 becomes a low probability gaming state. The electric support game remaining number J set in the game state setting process is decremented by “1” every time the special figure determination is executed when “J ≧ 1”, and becomes “J = 0”. The electric support game flag is set to OFF, and the gaming state of the gaming machine 100 becomes a non-electric support game state. However, after J = 1 is changed to J = 0 by execution of the special figure determination, the electric support game state is maintained until the special symbol is stopped and displayed in a manner indicating the result of the special figure determination, and the stop display is performed. A non-electric support game state can be set later. In the initial state of the gaming machine 100, the high probability game flag and the electric support game flag are OFF, and “0” is set to the number of times X and J.

  In addition, even when winning a small win, a game with the opening of the big winning opening 111 (this is called a small hit game) is executed, but the main control unit 401 is triggered by the winning of the small winning Do not change the gaming state (probability of winning the jackpot and whether or not to give power support). In other words, the gaming state of the gaming machine 100 (the jackpot winning probability and the presence / absence of electric support) does not change between before and after the small win. In the small hit game, for example, the opening of the special winning opening 111 with a short opening time (for example, 0.2 seconds) is repeated a plurality of times.

  In the electric Chu process, the main CPU 411 opens and closes the electric tulip 107 based on the result of the common map determination. In the case of winning per usual figure, the electric tulip 107 is opened for a predetermined time.

[1-2-6. Prize ball processing]
In the winning ball process, the main CPU 411 pays out a predetermined number of winning balls for winning at the first starting port 105, the second starting port 106, the big winning port 111, and the normal winning port 112. Is set in the main RAM 413 as a prize ball command.

[1-2-7. Output processing]
In the output process, the main CPU 411 stores information (including the above-described commands) stored in the main RAM 413, etc., in each control unit (prize ball control unit 402 and effect control unit 403) connected to the main control unit 401. Output). A command related to the prize ball is output to the prize ball control unit 402, and a command related to the effect is output to the effect control unit 403. In the output process, the main CPU 411 may transmit arbitrary information recognized or held by itself (for example, information indicating the state of the electric support game flag and the high probability game flag) to the effect control unit 403. When the output process ends, the timer interrupt process also ends. When the timer interrupt process ends, the process executed by the main CPU 411 returns to the main process (see FIG. 5).

  As shown in FIG. 4, a board external information terminal board 491 is connected to the main control section 401, and the main control section 401 sends information indicating the contents stored in the main RAM 413 to the outside (through the board 491). For example, it can be output to a hall computer of a game facility.

[2. Prize ball control unit]
The prize ball control unit 402 (see FIG. 4) includes a CPU, a ROM, and a RAM. Based on a payout instruction (prize ball command) from the main control unit 401, the prize ball is paid out using the payout unit 429. Do. Various SWs for detecting a game ball are connected to the prize ball control unit 402. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 4, the prize ball control unit 402 includes a fixed position detection SW 424 that detects a game ball at a predetermined position, a payout ball detection SW425 that detects a game ball that has been paid out, A ball presence detection SW 426 for detecting whether or not there is a game ball and a full tank detection SW 427 for detecting that the upper plate 123 and the lower plate 125 are filled with game balls are connected. A detection signal indicating the result is sent to the prize ball control unit 402. The winning ball control unit 402 pays out a winning ball or stops paying out a winning ball based on a payout instruction output from the main control unit 401 or a detection signal input from the SWs 424 to 427. Further, the prize ball control unit 402 may output detection signals from the SWs 424 to 427 to the main control unit 401.

  Further, a launching unit 428 is connected to the prize ball control unit 402. The award ball control unit 402 detects the operation of launching a game ball with respect to the launch unit 428 (operation by the player) and controls the launch of the game ball. The launcher 428 launches a game ball for a game, and includes a sensor that detects a game operation by the player, a solenoid that launches the game ball, and the like. When the prize ball control unit 402 detects a game operation by the sensor of the launch unit 428, the game ball 103 is intermittently fired by driving a solenoid or the like in response to the detected game operation, and the game area 103 of the game board 101 is played. Launch a game ball. The prize ball controller 402 is connected to a frame external information terminal board 492, and various information handled by the prize ball controller 402 can be output to the outside through the board 492.

[3. Production control unit]
The effect control unit 403 includes a sub CPU 431, a sub ROM 432, and a sub RAM 433 (see FIG. 4). The effect control unit 403 is an image / audio control unit (not shown) that performs display control of the image display unit 104 and audio output control of the speaker unit 115, and lighting control of the effect light unit 116 and the board lamp 135 on the game board 101. In addition, a lamp control unit (not shown) that performs drive control of the movable frame accessory 117 and the movable board accessory 130 is provided. As described above, the speaker unit 115 includes the speakers 115L, 115C, and 115R, the effect light unit 116 includes the left frame light 116L, the center frame light 116C, and the right frame light 116R, and the panel movable accessory 130 is the shutter accessory 130a. And an arm-shaped accessory 130b. In addition, the effect control unit 403 is connected to an effect button unit 121 and an operation key 122 for receiving an operation from a player. The effect control unit 403 can perform an effect corresponding to the input operation content from the player for the effect button part 121 and the operation key 122. As described above, the effect button unit 121 includes the left long button 121L, the center button 121C, and the right long button 121R.

  The effect control unit 403 realizes an arbitrary effect including a change effect using an effect realizing element (effect means). That is, the production control unit 403 controls the production realization element to cause the production realization element to perform a desired production (the main body of the production in this expression is the production realization element, but in the description of this embodiment, The effect control unit 403 is regarded as the main subject of the effect). The effect realization elements include all or part of the image display unit 104, the speaker unit 115, the effect light unit 116, the movable frame accessory 117, the effect button unit 121, the panel lamp 135, and the movable panel accessory 130. The variation effect indicates an effect executed by the effect control unit 403 during the variation display of the special symbol, and includes an effect suggesting a determination result of the special symbol determination. It can also be understood that the effect executed by the effect control unit 403 at the start of the special symbol change or at the end of the special symbol change is also included in the change effect. It should be noted that suggestions, notifications, notifications, notifications, etc. due to effects may be considered to be for players unless otherwise specified. Unless otherwise specified, the display of an arbitrary image and design (decorative design, etc.) under the control of the effect control unit 403 refers to the display on the image display unit 104, and the output of sound and sound is from the speaker unit 115. Refers to the output of sound.

  FIG. 7 lists the main processes performed by the effect control unit 403. When power is supplied to the effect control unit 403, the effect main process is executed by the sub CPU 431. In the effect main process, initial setting of various devices in the effect control unit 403 is performed and the setting result is stored in the sub RAM 433. The sub CPU 431 interrupts and executes the effect timer interrupt process for the effect main process at the cycle set in the effect main process. In the effect timer interrupt process, the sub CPU 431 sequentially executes an effect random number update process, a command reception process, and an operation reception process.

  The effect control unit 403 is provided with an effect random number counter that counts effect random numbers. In the effect random number update process, an effect random number is added by adding “1” to the count value of the effect random number counter. Update the count value of the counter. In the effect random number counter, when the count value exceeds a predetermined upper limit value, the count value is returned to “0”, and thereafter the same count up is performed. The count value of the effect random number counter can be referred to as the value of the effect random number used in various effects.

  In the command reception process, the sub CPU 431 executes a special drawing effect process, a general drawing effect process, and a hit effect process.

  The special figure effect process includes an effect start process and an effect end process. The sub CPU 431 starts the variation effect by executing the effect start process in response to the reception of the variation start command from the main control unit 401, and then performs the effect in response to the reception of the variation stop command from the main control unit 401. The variation effect is ended by executing the end process. The effect start process includes a variable effect content determination process. In the variation effect content determination process, the sub CPU 431 determines the content of the variation effect based on the effect random number, the command received from the main control unit 401, or the like. Specifically, for example, a variation effect pattern table (special drawing variation effect pattern table) including a plurality of variation effect patterns (special drawing variation effect pattern) each defining the contents of the variation effect is stored in the sub ROM 432 in advance. In the variation effect content determination process, the content of the variation effect is determined by selecting and determining one variation effect pattern from the variation effect pattern table based on the variation start command or the like.

  Further, when receiving a hold increase command from the main control unit 401, the sub CPU 431 stores information based on the hold increase command in the sub RAM 433 and performs a hold increase process in the command reception process. In the hold increase process, a hold image corresponding to the prior determination target is additionally displayed on the image display unit 104. The reserved image corresponding to the advance determination target is later deleted from the image display unit 104 or shifted to a specific display position when the change start command is received when the advance determination target becomes the determination target TT. . The sub CPU 431 can also perform a pre-reading notice effect for the prior determination target based on the hold increase command.

  The ordinary drawing effect process (see FIG. 7) is executed by the sub CPU 431 when a command related to a normal symbol is received from the main control unit 401. A command related to the normal symbol is transmitted from the main control unit 401 to the effect control unit 403 at the start and end of the variation of the normal symbol. In the ordinary drawing effect process, the ordinary drawing effect is executed when the normal symbol changes.

  The winning effect process (see FIG. 7) is executed by the sub CPU 431 when a command related to the winning effect is received from the main control unit 401. That is, for example, when a special symbol and a decorative symbol are stopped and displayed in a manner in which the determination target TT has won a jackpot or a jackpot and indicates a jackpot or a jackpot, a command related to a win effect is sent from the main control unit 401 to the effect control unit. The sub CPU 431 executes a win effect to be performed during the big hit game or the small hit game based on the reception result of the command.

  In the operation accepting process (see FIG. 7), the sub CPU 431 operates based on a signal from the effect button unit 121 or the operation key 122 to the player on the operation button unit 121 or the operation key 122 (operation presence / absence and operation input). ). The effect control unit 403 can perform an effect according to the recognized operation state.

<< type of jackpot >>
FIG. 8 is a diagram showing jackpot types assumed in the present embodiment. In this embodiment, there are special A, special B, special A, special C, special D, and special B as jackpot types. The number of rounds for special A, special A, special C, and special B is 8, and the number of rounds for special B and special D is 16. The larger the number of rounds, the more the number of award balls that can be obtained by winning in the big winning opening 111 in the jackpot game, which is more advantageous to the player. Therefore, each jackpot game of Special B and Special D is more advantageous to the player than each jackpot game of Special A, Special C, A and B. In the judgment per special figure for the first special symbol (in the judgment per special figure based on the establishment of the first starting condition), when the jackpot is won, the ratio that the jackpot becomes Special A, Special B, and A They are 60%, 5%, and 35%, respectively. In the special symbol hit determination for the first special symbol, no special C, special D, or big B jackpot will occur. In the judgment per special figure for the second special symbol (in the judgment per special figure based on the establishment of the second starting condition), when the jackpot is won, the ratio that the jackpot becomes special C, special D, and B is These are 30%, 35%, and 35%, respectively. In the special symbol hit determination for the second special symbol, no special A, special B, or big A big hit will occur. The special symbol design determination table TZt is formed so that the type of jackpot for the first and second special symbols is determined at the above-described ratio.

  After the jackpot game of any of Special A to Special D is completed, the main CPU 411 sets the gaming state of the gaming machine 100 to the high probability electric support game state, and then the next jackpot (that is, from the jackpot that occurred immediately before). If the number of times the special symbol fluctuates (that is, the number of times the special symbol has been fluctuated and stopped through the variable display) is equal to or greater than the number of times of high probability and the number of times of electric support is granted, the gaming machine 100 Is set to the low probability non-electric support game state.

The high-probability number of times refers to the number of changes in the special symbol that maintains the high-probability gaming state. In other words, for a certain jackpot, after the jackpot game is over, while the special symbol fluctuates by i _k times, the gaming state becomes a high probability gaming state, and after the special symbol fluctuates by i _k times, the low probability gaming state when it is a high probability granted number corresponding to the jackpot is i _k times (i _k is an integer). Since a big hit is more likely to occur in the high probability gaming state than in the low probability gaming state, the higher the number of high probability grants, the more advantageous for the player.
The number of times when the electric support is given refers to the number of times the special symbol is maintained to maintain the electric support game state. That relates to certain jackpot, after completion of the jackpot gaming, non conductive support game after while, the and special symbol is gaming state and conductive support gaming state fluctuates by i _d times the special symbol is varied by i _d times when it is a state, support grant number electrostatic corresponding to the jackpot is i _d times (i _d is an integer). Since the starting condition is more easily established in the electric support game state than in the non-electric support game state, the more the number of electric support grants, the more advantageous for the player.

  The number of high-probability grants and power support grants for the jackpots of Special A to Special D are both 10,000 (see FIG. 8). Therefore, after the special jackpot game of any one of special A to special D is finished, when the number of times the special symbol fluctuates reaches 10,000 without any other big hits (in other words, when the special figure judgment is performed 10,000 times). ), The gaming state of the gaming machine 100 is shifted from the high probability electric support game state to the low probability non-electric support game state. However, since the jackpot winning probability in the high-probability gaming state is “1/30”, after the jackpot game of any one of Special A to Special D is completed, the probability of winning the next jackpot is substantially high. It can be said that the sapo game state is maintained.

  After the end of the big hit game of A or B, the main CPU 411 sets the gaming state of the gaming machine 100 to the low probability electric support game state until the special symbol fluctuates by a predetermined number of times of the electric support grant, and the special symbol After that, the gaming state of the gaming machine 100 is set to the low-probability non-electrical support state (that is, the normal gaming state). However, if the next jackpot is won after the end of the A or B jackpot game, the gaming state after the end of the next jackpot game is set according to the type of the jackpot won next time. For example, if the special A jackpot is won at the first variation of the special symbol after the end of the bonus game of A or B, the gaming state of the gaming machine 100 is highly probable after the end of the bonus game of the special A. It is set to the electric support game state. The number of times electric support is given to the jackpots of A and B is 20 times. In addition, after the big hit game of tsu A or tsu B, since it is not a high probability gaming state but a low probability electric support game state, the high probability grant count for the jackpot of tsu A and tsu B is 0 times. .

In the game state setting process associated with special A, special B, special C or special D jackpot, both the high probability game flag and the electric support game flag are turned ON, and the high probability game remaining number X and the electric support game remaining number J are set. In both cases, “10000” is set.
In the game state setting process associated with the big hit of A or B, the high probability game flag is turned OFF while the electric support game flag is turned ON and the high probability game remaining number X is set to “0”. As a result, “20” is set in the remaining electric support game number J.
That is, the high probability remaining game count X and the electric support game remaining count J set in the game state setting process executed with a certain jackpot are respectively the high probability grant count and the electric support grant corresponding to the jackpot. This is consistent with the number of times (see FIG. 8).

  As can be seen from FIG. 8, the special symbol determination based on the establishment of the second start condition is relatively more advantageous to the player than the special symbol determination based on the establishment of the first start condition (ie, more Easy to get many prize balls). Here, “relatively advantageous” means that the expected value of the number of winning balls obtained by winning the big winning opening 111 in the jackpot game executed based on the establishment of the second starting condition is executed based on the establishment of the first starting condition. This means that the number of prize balls obtained by winning the winning prize 111 in the jackpot game is larger than the expected value. “Expected value of the number of winning balls obtained by winning the jackpot game 111 in the jackpot game” is the expected value of the number of rounds in the jackpot game or the maximum value of the total opening time of the jackpot 111 in the jackpot game It may be read as a value.

  The embodiment including the configuration and operation of the gaming machine 100 described above is referred to as a basic embodiment for convenience. Hereinafter, among a plurality of embodiments, further detailed configuration examples and operation examples of the gaming machine 100 in the basic embodiment will be described. As long as there is no description and there is no contradiction, matters described in the basic embodiment are applied to each embodiment described later, and in each embodiment, the description in each embodiment has priority for items that contradict the basic embodiment. . In addition, as long as there is no contradiction, the matters described in any of the plurality of embodiments described below can be applied to any other embodiment (that is, any two or more of the plurality of embodiments). It is also possible to combine these embodiments).

<< First Embodiment >>
A first embodiment will be described.

――― Detailed configuration of buttons ―――
With reference to FIGS. 9A to 9C, in the door frame 12, an operation table 510 is provided below the game board 101 so as to protrude toward the player side. A left long button 121L and a right long button 121R are provided. A central button 121C and operation keys 122 are also provided on the operation table 510 (see also FIG. 1). In FIGS. 9A to 9C, these buttons and keys are used to prevent the drawing from becoming complicated. Of these, only the buttons 121L and 121R are shown, and the central button 121C and the operation keys 122 are not shown. The left long button 121L is a rigid rod-like button provided so as to protrude upward from a predetermined position on the upper surface 511 of the operation table 510, and the right long button 121R is provided on the upper surface 511 of the operation table 510. This is a stick-shaped button having rigidity provided so as to protrude upward from another predetermined position.

  The buttons 121L and 121R basically have the same structure and function as each other. For this reason, hereinafter, the description of one of the buttons 121L and 121R may be applied to the other button unless otherwise specified. A separate description will be provided for matters to be distinguished between the buttons 121L and 121R. In the following, the left long button 121L and the right long button 121R may be referred to as the left button 121L and the right button 121R, respectively. Further, in the following description, when simply referring to a long button, it indicates one of the buttons 121L or 121R, or each of the buttons 121L and 121R.

  The buttons 121L and 121R may be configured to have members of different colors. Here, it is assumed that the button 121L is formed using a blue resin material and the button 121R is formed using a red resin material. Each of the buttons 121L and 121R includes a light emitting diode, and the light emitting diodes of the buttons 121L and 121R emit light in blue and red, respectively. For this reason, it can be said that the left button 121L is a button associated with blue, and the right button 121R is a button associated with red. The light emitting diodes in the buttons 121L and 121R are included in the components of the effect light unit 116 (see FIG. 4).

  The player can perform an operation of pushing the long buttons (121L, 121R) along a predetermined pushing direction (hereinafter referred to as pushing operation). In the pushing operation, the force and the amount (distance) of pushing the long button are called pushing force and pushing amount, respectively. The pushing direction of the button 121L is a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction of the button 121L and pushing the button 121L downward to the right. The pressing direction of the button 121R is parallel to the longitudinal direction of the button 121R and is the direction in which the button 121R is pressed downward to the left.

  9A to 9C are schematic perspective views of the buttons 121L and 121R and the operation console 510, respectively. However, FIG. 9A is a perspective view when the push operation is not performed on each of the buttons 121L and 121R, and FIG. 9B is a relatively small push operation only on the button 121L. FIG. 9C is a perspective view when a relatively large pressing operation is performed only on the button 121L (that is, when it is pressed deeply). When the push operation is performed on the long buttons (121L, 121R), the housing of the long button is buried in the operation table 510 by the amount of the push.

  Regarding the long buttons (121L, 121R), a state in which no pushing operation is performed is referred to as a reference state. A spring member (not shown) for returning the state of the long button to the reference state is built in the operation table 510, and when the pushing force is removed from the state in which the long button is pushed by applying the pushing force, The state of the long button returns to the reference state due to the elastic force of the spring member.

With reference to FIG. 10, FIG. 11 (a)-(c), and FIG. 12 (a)-(c), the sensor etc. which concern on a long button (121L, 121R) are demonstrated. An upper position sensor L _SS1 , a lower position sensor L _SS2 , a lock sensor L _SS3 and a left lock mechanism L _LK are provided for the left button 121L, and an upper position sensor R _SS1 and a lower position sensor R for the right button 121R. _{SS 2} , lock sensor R _{SS 3} and right lock mechanism R _LK are provided, and these sensors and lock mechanism are all arranged at predetermined positions in operation console 510 (and thus in door frame 12). FIG. 10 shows a schematic positional relationship between the sensors and the lock mechanism and the long buttons (121L, 121R) in the reference state.

The upper position sensor L _SS1 is a sensor that detects whether or not the lower end position of the left button 121L is above the first predetermined position P1, and the lower position sensor L _SS2 is the lower end position of the left button 121L. 2 is a sensor that detects whether or not it is above a predetermined position P2. Here, the second predetermined position P2 is lower than the first predetermined position P1. The upper position sensor R _SS1 is a sensor that detects whether or not the lower end position of the right button 121R is higher than the first predetermined position P1, and the lower position sensor R _SS2 is the lower end position of the right button 121R. 2 is a sensor that detects whether or not it is above a predetermined position P2. The first predetermined position P1 for the left button 121L and the first predetermined position P1 for the right button 121R are positions common to each other in the vertical direction, but are separated from each other in the left-right direction. The same applies to the second predetermined position P2. Each position sensor can be configured by an optical sensor such as a photo interrupter (the same applies to the lock sensor). Description of the lock mechanism _{L LK} and _{R LK} and the lock sensor _{L SS3} and _{R SS3} is set to be provided after, will be described in detail the operation of each position sensor.

Each position sensor outputs a low level or a high level voltage signal having a higher potential than the low level based on its detection result. In particular,
The upper position sensor L _SS1 outputs a low level signal when it detects that the lower end position of the left button 121L is above the first predetermined position P1, while it outputs a high level signal otherwise.
The lower position sensor L _SS2 outputs a low level signal when it detects that the lower end position of the left button 121L is above the second predetermined position P2, and outputs a high level signal otherwise.
The upper position sensor R _SS1 outputs a low level signal when it detects that the lower end position of the right button 121R is above the first predetermined position P1, while it outputs a high level signal otherwise.
The lower position sensor R _SS2 outputs a low level signal when it detects that the lower end position of the right button 121R is above the second predetermined position P2, and outputs a high level signal otherwise.

  When the pushing amount with respect to the left button 121L is a predetermined first reference amount TH1 (for example, 1 centimeter), the lower end position of the left button 121L coincides with the first predetermined position P1, and the pushing amount with respect to the left button 121L is a predetermined amount. When the amount is the second reference amount TH2 (for example, 5 centimeters), the lower end position of the left button 121L coincides with the second predetermined position P2. The second reference amount TH2 is larger than the first reference amount TH1.

Accordingly, as shown in FIG. 11 (a), when the pushing amount with respect to the left button 121L is smaller than the predetermined first reference amount TH1, the lower end position of the left button 121L is above the first predetermined position P1, The position sensors L _SS1 and L _SS2 both output a low level signal. Since the push amount is zero in the reference state in the left button 121L, when the left button 121L is in the reference state, the position sensors L _SS1 and L _SS2 both output low level signals.
As shown in FIG. 11 (b), when the pushing amount with respect to the left button 121L is equal to or larger than the predetermined first reference amount TH1 but smaller than the predetermined second reference amount TH2, the lower end position of the left button 121L is set to the first predetermined amount. Since the position sensor L _SS1 outputs a high level signal because it coincides with the position P1 or is lower than the first predetermined position P1, the lower end position of the left button 121L is higher than the second predetermined position P2. Therefore, the position sensor L _SS2 outputs a low level signal.
As shown in FIG. 11 (c), when the pushing amount with respect to the left button 121L is equal to or larger than a predetermined second reference amount TH2, the lower end position of the left button 121L coincides with the second predetermined position P2 or the second predetermined position P2. The position sensors L _SS1 and L _SS2 both output a high level signal.
When the amount of pressing with respect to the left button 121L reaches a predetermined amount larger than the second reference amount TH2, the left button 121L and the operation console 510 are formed so that the left button 121L cannot be pressed any further. In the drawings, the low level may be represented by “L” and the high level may be represented by “H”.

  When the pushing amount with respect to the right button 121R is a predetermined first reference amount TH1 (for example, 1 centimeter), the lower end position of the right button 121R coincides with the first predetermined position P1, and the pushing amount with respect to the right button 121R is a predetermined amount. When the amount is the second reference amount TH2 (for example, 5 centimeters), the lower end position of the right button 121R coincides with the second predetermined position P2. As described above, the second reference amount TH2 is larger than the first reference amount TH1.

Accordingly, as shown in FIG. 12 (a), when the pushing amount with respect to the right button 121R is smaller than the predetermined first reference amount TH1, the lower end position of the right button 121R is higher than the first predetermined position P1, The position sensors R _SS1 and R _SS2 both output a low level signal. Since the push amount is zero in the reference state in the right button 121R, when the right button 121R is in the reference state, the position sensors R _SS1 and R _SS2 both output low level signals.
As shown in FIG. 12 (b), when the pressing amount with respect to the right button 121R is equal to or larger than the predetermined first reference amount TH1 but smaller than the predetermined second reference amount TH2, the lower end position of the right button 121R is set to the first predetermined amount. while the position since it is below the match or the first predetermined position P1 and the position P1 sensor R _SS1 is configured to output a high level signal, the lower end position of the right button 121R is above the second predetermined position P2 Therefore, the position sensor R _SS2 outputs a low level signal.
As shown in FIG. 12 (c), when the pressing amount with respect to the right button 121R is equal to or greater than a predetermined second reference amount TH2, the lower end position of the right button 121R matches the second predetermined position P2, or the second predetermined position P2. _Are both below, the position sensors R _SS1 and R _SS2 both output high level signals.
When the pressing amount with respect to the right button 121R reaches a predetermined amount larger than the second reference amount TH2, the right button 121R and the operation table 510 are formed so that the right button 121R cannot be pressed any further.

  Further, as shown in FIGS. 11 (b) and 12 (b), the pushing amount with respect to the long buttons (121L, 121R) is not less than the predetermined first reference amount TH1 but smaller than the predetermined second reference amount TH2. The state is referred to as a first operation state. As shown in FIG. 11C and FIG. 12C, the state in which the push amount with respect to the long buttons (121L, 121R) is equal to or greater than a predetermined second reference amount TH2 This is called an operation state. The left button 121L and the right button 121L receive a pressing force on each of them, and individually take one of a reference state, a first operation state, and a second operation state.

The output signal of the upper position sensor L _SS1, it is possible to detect whether or not the left button 121L is in the reference state. Similarly, it is possible to detect whether or not the right button 121R is in the reference state by the upper position sensor R _SS1 .
It is possible to detect whether or not the left button 121L is in the second operation state based on the output signal of the lower position sensor L _SS2 . Similarly, it is possible to detect whether or not the right button 121R is in the second operation state by the lower position sensor R _SS2 .
It is possible to detect whether the left button 121L is in the reference state, the first operation state, or the second operation state by a combination of the output signals of the sensors L _SS1 and L _SS2 . Similarly, it is possible to detect whether the right button 121R is in the reference state, the first operation state, or the second operation state by combining the output signals of the sensors R _SS1 and R _SS2 .

――― About locking mechanism ―――
The lock mechanism will be described with reference to FIGS. 13 (a) and 13 (b). The lock mechanisms L _LK and R _LK individually take either a lock release state or a lock operation state. FIG. 13A is a schematic diagram of the long buttons (121L, 121R), the position sensors, and the lock mechanisms when the lock mechanisms L _LK and R _LK are both unlocked. (B) is a schematic diagram of the long buttons (121L, 121R), the position sensors, and the lock mechanisms when the lock mechanisms L _LK and R _LK are both in a lock operation state.

Starting from the reference state, when the left button 121L receives a pressing force due to the pressing operation, the lower end of the left button 121L moves in the pressing direction (downward to the right), but the left lock mechanism _LLK is in the lock operation state. , A movement limiting member (such as a rigid resin material or metal) that forms the left lock mechanism _LLK is inserted into the movement path. Here, it relates left button 121L and left lock mechanism L _LK, the insertion position of the movement restricting member is above the first located below the predetermined position P1 and the second position P2. Therefore, when the left lock mechanism L _LK is in the locked operating state, is pushed the left button 121L of the reference state as a starting point, the lower end of the left button 121L reaches a first predetermined position P1, then, left button The left button 121L can be pushed in until the lower end of 121L comes into contact with the movement restricting member (see FIG. 14), but the left button 121L cannot be pushed any further. This is because the movement limiting member in contact with the lower end of the left button 121L prevents further movement of the left button 121L in the lower right direction.

When the left lock mechanism L _LK is in the unlocked state, the movement restriction member is not inserted into said path of travel, the left lock mechanism L _LK does not interfere with the movement of the left button 121L by depressing the left button 121L. Therefore, when the left lock mechanism L _LK is in the unlocked state, is pushed the left button 121L of the reference state as a starting point, after the lower end of the left button 121L reaches a first predetermined position P1, yet a 2 is also below the predetermined position P2 of 2 (from FIG. 11A to FIG. 11C through FIG. 11B).

Similarly, starting from the reference state, when subjected to pushing force by the right button 121R is pushed, but the lower end of the right button 121R would slide into moving in the push-in direction (lower left direction), the right lock mechanism R _LK When in the lock operating state, a movement limiting member (such as a rigid resin material or metal) that forms the right lock mechanism _RLK is inserted into the movement path. Here, it relates the right button 121R and the right lock mechanism R _LK, the insertion position of the movement restricting member is above the first located below the predetermined position P1 and the second position P2. Therefore, when the right lock mechanism R _LK is in the locked operating state, is pushed the right button 121R of the reference state as a starting point, the lower end of the right button 121R reaches the first predetermined position P1, then the right button The right button 121R can be pushed in until the lower end of 121R comes into contact with the movement restriction member (see FIG. 14), but the right button 121R cannot be pushed any further. This is because the movement limiting member in contact with the lower end of the right button 121R prevents further movement of the right button 121R in the lower left direction.

When the right lock mechanism R _LK is in the unlocked state, the movement restriction member is not inserted into the movement path, and the right lock mechanism R _LK does not hinder the movement of the right button 121R due to the pushing operation of the right button 121R. Therefore, when the right lock mechanism R _LK is in the unlocked state, is pushed the right button 121R of the reference state as a starting point, after the lower end of the right button 121R reaches a first predetermined position P1, yet a 2 is also below a predetermined position P2 of 2 (from FIG. 12A to FIG. 12C through FIG. 12B).

A configuration example of the left lock mechanism L _LK will be described with reference to FIGS. 15A is a plan view of the left lock mechanism L _LK in the unlocked state as viewed along the pushing direction of the left button 121L, and FIG. 15B is the left lock mechanism L _LK in the lock operating state. It is the top view which looked at along the pushing direction of the left button 121L. The left lock mechanism L _LK includes one or more blade members 521 (three blade members 521 in the examples of FIGS. 15A and 15B) as movement restriction members, and is accompanied by a pushing operation in the unlocked state. Each blade member 521 is undeployed so that each blade member 521 is not arranged in the movement path of the left button 121L (corresponding to a portion in the broken line circle 522). In the lock operation state, each blade member 521 is deployed using a motor, and each blade member 521 is disposed in the movement path.

The configuration shown in FIGS. 15A and 15B is merely an example. In the lock operation state, the left lock mechanism L _{LK is} limited as long as it has a function of restricting the state change of the left button 121L from the reference state to the second operation state by the push-in operation and not applying the restriction in the unlock state. Is optional (the same applies to the right lock mechanism _RLK ). For example, a configuration may be adopted in which the pin protrudes to the moving path of the left button 121L only in the lock operation state. Alternatively, for example, a configuration may be adopted in which a hole extending in the front-rear direction is provided in the left button 121L, and a pin fixed to the operation console 150 is inserted into the hole only in the lock operation state.

Referring to FIG. 16, the lock sensors L _SS3 and R _SS3 detect and monitor the states of the left lock mechanisms L _LK and R _LK , respectively, and based on the results, the lock sensors L _SS3 and R _SS3 Outputs a voltage signal. In particular,
The lock sensor L _SS3 outputs a low level signal when it detects that the left lock mechanism L _LK is in a lock operation state, while it outputs a high level signal when it detects that the left lock mechanism L _LK is in an unlock state. Output
The lock sensor R _SS3 outputs a low level signal when it detects that the right lock mechanism R _LK is in the lock operation state, while it outputs a high level signal when it detects that the right lock mechanism R _LK is in the unlock state. Is output.

――― About variation production, reach production, operation production ―――
The effect control unit 403 can perform an operation effect in the variable effect before the reach effect is executed or during the reach effect. A variation effect, a reach effect, and an operation effect will be described.

  The effect control unit 403 starts the variable display of the first to nth decorative symbols in synchronization with the start of the variation display of the special symbol, and then determines the determination target TT in synchronization with the stop of the variation display of the special symbol. The variation display of the first to nth decorative symbols is stopped in a manner corresponding to the result of the special figure determination. Here, n is usually an arbitrary integer of 2 or more, but may be “n = 1”. In the following, it is assumed that n = 3 unless otherwise specified.

  In FIG. 17A, SZL, SZR, and SZC represent a first decorative symbol, a second decorative symbol, and a third decorative symbol, respectively. The first to third decorative symbols are also referred to as a left symbol, a right symbol, and a middle symbol, respectively. In the image display unit 104, a left symbol display area in which a left symbol is displayed, a right symbol display area in which a right symbol is displayed, and a middle symbol display area in which a middle symbol is displayed are set. Of the left, right, and middle symbol display areas, the left symbol display area is located on the left and the right symbol display area is located on the right as viewed from the player facing the image display unit 104.

  Referring to FIG. 17B, the effect control unit 403 assigns the numbers “1”, “2”, “3”, “3” to the first to third decorative symbols according to the result of the special figure determination. The display can be stopped in any of seven types of numeric symbols to which “4”, “5”, “6”, and “7” are added, and special symbols different from the numeric symbols. Note that a character design or the like to which an alphabet or the like is assigned may be used instead of the numerical design. Special symbols include a symbol that suggests execution of a so-called pseudo-continuous effect, a symbol that suggests a transition to a certain effect mode, and the like.

  In the present embodiment, stopping the i-th decorative symbol in a certain manner means stopping the i-th decorative symbol at a predetermined symbol corresponding to the aspect. In addition, stopping and displaying the i-th decorative symbol and the j-th decorative symbol in a common manner means stopping and displaying the i-th decorative symbol and the j-th decorative symbol with a common numerical symbol or a common special symbol. (I and j are different integers).

  The effect control unit 403 can stop and display the first to third decorative symbols in the form of double eyes or non-zero eyes according to the result of the special figure determination. The doublet refers to a state in which the first to third decorative symbols are aligned with a common numeric symbol on a predetermined effective line. The stop display of the first to third decorative symbols by the double eyes corresponds to any jackpot or specific jackpot notice. The non-zero eye refers to a state where the first to third decorative symbols are not aligned with a common numerical symbol on a predetermined effective line. In principle, the stop display of the first to third decorative symbols by the non-flat eyes corresponds to a notice of losing.

  Referring to FIG. 18, the effect control unit 403 starts the change display of the first to third decorative symbols in response to receiving the change start command including the result of the special figure determination with respect to the determination target TT. After temporarily stopping the first to third decorative symbols in a manner showing the result of the special figure determination through the above, etc., the first to third decorations in a manner showing the result of the special figure judgment in response to receiving the fluctuation stop command Stop displaying symbols. It is an effect from the start of the variable display of the first to third decorative symbols until the first to third decorative symbols are stopped and displayed, and the effect based on the result of the special figure determination is included in the variable effect. In the following description, it is assumed that the gaming state of the gaming machine 100 is a low probability non-electric support game state and the determination target TT is special figure determination information acquired based on the establishment of the first start condition. However, even when the gaming state of the gaming machine 100 is different from the low-probability non-electric support game state, and even when the determination target TT is special figure determination information acquired based on the establishment of the second start condition, Various effects shown below can be executed.

  Strictly, the decorative symbol is not temporarily stopped, but the decorative symbol is displayed on the image display unit 104 in such a manner that the player can recognize that the decorative symbol has stopped. This is a variation display mode of a decorative pattern that is slightly varied. Specifically, for example, when the i-th decorative symbol is temporarily stopped at the symbol with the number “2”, the player recognizes that the i-th decorative symbol is the symbol with the number “2”. As can be done, it means that the symbol with the numeral “2” is continuously displayed as a i-th decorative symbol for more than a predetermined time while vibrating in a predetermined display area in the image display unit 104 (i is an integer). In order to avoid confusion with the temporary stop, the decorative symbol stop display in response to the reception of the change stop command (a complete stop display without a slight change) may be referred to as a main stop. It is understood that the stop display of the decorative symbol during the special symbol variation display (and hence during the variation presentation) indicates a temporary stop.

  The effect control unit 403 displays the change display of the first and second decorative symbols among the first and third decorative symbols in a common symbol (aspect) based on the result of the special symbol determination for the determination target TT in the variable effect. After performing the temporary stop effect, the reach effect can be performed. Here, for the sake of concrete explanation, it is considered that the first and second decorative symbols are the left symbol and the right symbol. Then, the effect control unit 403 can perform the reach effect after temporarily suspending the left and right symbol variation displays with the common symbol (mode).

The reach effect is an effect based on the result of the special figure determination for the determination target TT, and is an effect that suggests that the degree of expectation of execution of the jackpot game for the determination target TT is higher than the predetermined expectation KT _REF . The expected degree of execution of the jackpot game (hereinafter also referred to as the jackpot expectation) is the probability (statistical probability) that one piece of special figure determination information (in this case, the determination target TT) has been won. Represents. If a specific effect is performed on one noticed special figure determination information, the expected degree of jackpot for the special figure determination information is the expected degree of jackpot for the specific effect (the specific effect is It can also be said that the assigned special figure determination information is a winning probability. The predetermined expectation degree KT _REF may be a predetermined expectation degree that is greater than or equal to 0 and less than 1. For example, the predetermined expectation degree KT _REF indicates a predetermined probability OTK as a jackpot winning probability or is a predetermined value greater than the probability OTK (For example, 5 times the probability OTK). The probability OTK is “1/300” if the special figure determination is performed in the low probability gaming state, and is “1/30” if the special figure determination is performed in the high probability gaming state (FIG. 6). reference). In the variation effect, the execution of the reach effect may be considered to suggest that the expectation of the jackpot of the determination target TT is higher than the non-execution of the reach effect.

Effect Q ₂ to which is performed for a certain one of JP diagram determination information Q ₁ is, it may suggest the expectations jackpot. For any one of JP diagram determination information Q _1, the probability effect Q ₂ is performed on the special symbol determination information Q ₁ and result is a "loss" of the hit determination special symbol in "r" The probability that the result of the determination per special figure is “big hit” and the effect Q ₂ is executed on the special figure determination information Q ₁ is expressed by “v”. Then, the expectation degree of jackpot of the special figure determination information Q ₁ and the expectation degree of jackpot suggested by the production Q ₂ are expressed by an expectation calculation formula “(100 × v / (r + v)) [%]”. .

  Referring to FIG. 19, in the variable effect including the reach effect, the first and third decorative symbols (corresponding to SZL, SZR, and SZC in FIG. 19) start the variable display and then the first and The two decorative symbols are temporarily stopped in a state where they are aligned with a common symbol (the symbol “2” in FIG. 19), and then a predetermined reach effect is performed. In the reach effect, for example, a game problem (such as a problem in which the main character defeats an enemy character in the game) occurs, and an effect indicating whether or not the problem is achieved is executed. Before the reach effect is performed, when the first and second decorative symbols are temporarily stopped at a common symbol, the first and second decorative symbols are arranged so that the player can easily see the first and second decorative symbols. Temporarily stopped at a predetermined large size. During the execution of the reach effect, for example, the first and second small-sized decorative symbols arranged in a common pattern for viewing the reach effect are temporarily stopped at the upper left corner of the image display unit 104. (Small size is smaller than the above large size). During the execution of the reach effect, the third decorative symbol may be displayed in a small size in an arbitrary display area in the image display unit 104 (variable display at a higher speed than the first and second decorative symbols).

  When the determination target TT wins any type of jackpot, an effect indicating that a game task is achieved (for example, displaying a moving image indicating how the main character wins the enemy character) is performed. At the same time, the large-sized first to third decorative symbols are temporarily stopped and displayed in the vicinity of the center of the image display unit 104 in the form of a doublet, and when the change stop command is received, the large-sized first to third decorative symbols are doubleted. Is stopped and displayed. On the other hand, when the determination target TT is a loss, an effect (for example, displaying a moving image showing a state where the main character is defeated by an enemy character) indicating that the game task is not achieved is performed and a large-sized first The first to third decorative symbols are temporarily stopped and displayed near the center of the image display unit 104 in a non-zero pattern, and when a variable stop command is received, the large first to third decorative symbols are changed to a non-zero pattern. Is displayed. Note that the reach effect shown in FIG. 19 is merely an example of a reach effect. In the gaming machine 100, a plurality of reach effects having different contents can be executed.

  Next, the operation effect will be described. The effect control unit 403 can execute the operation effect at any timing when the variation effect of the determination target TT is being performed based on the result of the special figure determination for the determination target TT (based on the variation start command). The operation effect is an effect that is performed using an operation means that can be operated by the player, and includes an effect that prompts the player to perform an operation on the operation means (more specifically, an operation input to the operation means). It is. The operation means in the operation effect is the left long button 121L, the center button 121C, or the right long button 121R. Prompting input is a concept including an input instruction, command, recommendation, permission, and request. Here, the operation corresponding effect executed in response to the input of the operation is considered to be included in the component of the operation effect, but may be considered not to be included in the component of the operation effect. The operation corresponding effect may include an effect suggesting a result of the special figure determination for the determination target TT.

  In the following description, the push-in operation related to the left button 121L or the right button 121R refers to the state of the left button 121L or the right button 121R in the second operation state (FIG. 11 (c) or FIG. 12 (c) unless otherwise specified. )).

  FIG. 20 shows an outline of the left button operation effect. The left button operation effect is an operation effect that uses the left button 121L as an operation means.

In the left button operation effect, first, for the left and right buttons including the display of a moving image that appears as if the entire image imitating the buttons 121L, 121C, and 121R gradually appears on the image display unit 104 over a predetermined time. A prelude direction is performed. The left / right button warning effect includes at least the display of an image 611 simulating the left button 121L and an image 612 simulating the right button 121R, and the images 611 and 612 are simultaneously displayed on the image display unit 104 in the left / right button warning effect. The The images 611 and 612 are different predetermined images, and the image 611 is an image based on blue, while the image 612 is an image based on red. In the left button operation effect, after the left / right button indication effect, the image 611 is highlighted from the image 612 among the images 611 and 612 displayed on the image display unit 104 (or the image 611 is displayed while the image 611 is continuously displayed). 612 is deleted), the left button specifying effect for specifying the image 611 is executed, and then the left button operation promoting effect for urging the user to hold down the left button 121L is performed. The long press of the left button 121L means continuous execution of the push operation of the left button 121L. In the left button operation promotion effect, a character image that prompts the long press is displayed together with the image 611. As will be described later, although the left lock mechanism _LLK is in a lock operation state in principle, it is in a lock release state for a certain time when the left button operation promotion effect is performed.

After the start of the left button operation promotion effect, when it is detected that the left button 121L is pressed and the left button 121L is in the second operation state, a predetermined time (for example, 3) is detected while the detection continues. The second button operation effect is executed, and then the left button result effect is executed. The effects corresponding to the operation for the left button executed in response to the input of the push operation to the left button 121L include an effect during the operation of the left button and a result effect for the left button.
In the effect during the left button operation, a moving image is displayed in which the left button 121L is regarded as a syringe and an image 611 simulating the left button 121L is seen to bite toward the lower right side of the image display unit 104.
As the contents of the result effect for the left button, any one of the plurality of effects contents is selectively executed. Based on the results of the special figure determination, for the left button, the expectation degree of jackpot suggested by one effect content and the expectation value of jackpot suggested by other effect contents are different from each other. The content of the result presentation may be determined. As a result, the result effect for the left button functions as an effect suggesting the degree of expectation of the jackpot.

  FIG. 21 shows an outline of the right button operation effect. The right button operation effect is an operation effect that uses the right button 121R as an operation means.

In the right button operation effect, first, the same left / right button sign effect as that in the left button operation effect is executed. However, in the right button operation effect, after the left / right button sign effect, the image 612 is highlighted from the image 611 among the images 611 and 612 displayed on the image display unit 104 (or the display of the image 612 is continued). While deleting the image 611), a right button specifying effect for specifying the image 612 is executed, and then a right button operation promoting effect for urging the long press of the right button 121R is performed. The long press of the right button 121R means continuous execution of the push operation of the left button 121L. In the right button operation promotion effect, a character image that prompts the long press is displayed together with the image 612. As will be described later, although the right lock mechanism _RLK is in a lock operation state in principle, it is in a lock release state for a certain time when the right button operation promotion effect is performed.

After the start of the right button operation promotion effect, when it is detected that the right button 121R is pressed and the right button 121R is in the second operation state, a predetermined time (eg, 3) is detected while the detection continues. Second button), the right button operation effect is executed, and then the right button result effect is executed. The effect corresponding to the operation for the right button executed in response to the input of the pushing operation to the right button 121R includes the effect during the operation of the right button and the result effect for the right button.
In the effect during the operation of the right button, a moving image is displayed in which the right button 121R is regarded as a syringe, and an image 612 simulating the right button 121R is seen to bite toward the lower left side of the image display unit 104.
As the contents of the result effect for the right button, any one of the plurality of effects contents is selectively executed. Based on the results of the special figure determination, for the right button, the expectation of jackpot suggested by one effect and the expectation of jackpot suggested by other effects are different from each other. The content of the result presentation may be determined. As a result, the right button result effect functions as an effect suggesting the degree of expectation of the jackpot.

The left / right button indication effect functions as an effect suggesting that either a left button operation promotion effect or a right button operation promotion effect will be performed later. Here, it is considered that the left button operation effect is included in the left button operation effect or the right button operation effect, but the left button operation effect is included in the left button operation effect or right button operation effect. In this case, the left / right button indication effect may be understood to function as an effect that suggests that either the left button operation effect or the right button operation effect will be performed later.
The left button specific effect functions as an effect that suggests that the left button operation promotion effect will be executed later, and the right button specific effect functions as an effect that suggests that the right button operation promotion effect is executed later.

  In addition, as the operation effect, there is a center button operation effect using the center button 121C as an operation means.

When the operation effect is performed, the effect control unit 403 sets the operation effective period. The operation effective period in the left button operation effect indicates a period during which an operation (that is, a pressing operation) on the left button 121L is effective. The operation effective period in the right button operation effect indicates a period during which an operation (that is, a pressing operation) on the right button 121R is effective. The operation effective period in the center button operation effect indicates a period during which an operation on the center button 121C (that is, an operation of pressing the center button 121C) is effective.
Operation corresponding effects are not performed in response to an operation outside the operation valid period. Therefore, for example, regarding the left button operation effect, the left button operation corresponding effect is not executed in response to the pressing operation to the left button 121L outside the operation effective period. Similarly, for example, regarding the right button operation effect, the right button operation corresponding effect is not executed in response to the pressing operation to the right button 121R outside the operation effective period.

The start timing of the operation effective period in the left button operation effect coincides with the execution start timing of the left button operation promotion effect, or a timing before or after the first predetermined time (for example, 0.5 seconds) from the execution start timing. (See FIG. 20). The length of the operation effective period in the left button operation effect is preset to a predetermined time length (for example, 5 seconds). In the left button operation effect, the result effect for the left button is executed after the expiration of the operation effective period, for example, at a timing after a second predetermined time (for example, 0.5 seconds) from the end timing of the operation effective period. However, the left button result effect may be executed at the end timing of the operation effective period, or at a timing before the second predetermined time from the end timing.
The start timing of the operation effective period in the right button operation effect coincides with the execution start timing of the right button operation promotion effect, or a timing before or after the first predetermined time (for example, 0.5 seconds) from the execution start timing. (See FIG. 21). The length of the operation effective period in the right button operation effect is preset to a predetermined time length (for example, 5 seconds). In the right button operation effect, the right button result effect is executed after the expiration of the operation effective period, for example, at a timing after a second predetermined time (for example, 0.5 seconds) from the end timing of the operation effective period. However, the right button result effect may be executed at the end timing of the operation effective period, or at a timing that is a second predetermined time before the end timing.
The first predetermined time and the second predetermined time match or do not match each other.

In the left button operation effect, the effect during the left button operation is not executed if no pushing operation for setting the left button 121L in the second operation state is detected during the operation effective period, but for the left button after the operation effective period expires. A result effect is performed (however, the result effect for the left button may not be executed). In the left button operation effect, if the pushing operation for keeping the left button 121L in the second operation state during the operation valid period is detected for a predetermined time (for example, 0.5 seconds) or longer, the left button is being operated during the pushing operation. After the production, the result production for the left button is performed after the operation valid period expires.
In the right button operation effect, the right button operation effect is not executed if no push-in operation with the right button 121R in the second operation state is detected during the operation effective period, but for the right button after the operation effective period expires. The result presentation is performed (however, the result presentation for the right button may not be executed). In the right button operation effect, if a push-in operation in which the right button 121R is in the second operation state during the operation valid period is detected for a predetermined time (for example, 0.5 seconds) or longer, the right button is being operated After the production, the result production for the right button is performed after the operation valid period expires.

  In the center button operation effect, if an operation of pressing the center button 121C is detected during the operation effective period, an operation corresponding effect is promptly performed in response to the detection. In the center button operation effect, if no operation of pressing the center button 121C is detected during the operation effective period, the operation corresponding effect is performed after the operation effective period expires (however, the operation corresponding effect may be not executed).

When the gaming machine 100 is activated, the lock mechanisms L _LK and R _LK are both in a lock operation state, and thereafter, in principle, the lock operation state is maintained. On the other hand, in the left button operation effect and the right button operation effect among the operation effects, the pushing operation cannot be performed unless the states of the lock mechanisms L _LK and R _LK are appropriately controlled.

The production control unit 403 controls the states of the lock mechanisms L _LK and R _{LK in} consideration of the states of the buttons 121L and 121R so that the pushing operation can be performed appropriately. A state control method of the left lock mechanism _LLK at the time of executing the left button operation effect will be described.

Referring to FIG. 22, at the time of executing the left button operation effect, the first determination timing and the second determination timing are set for the state control of the left lock mechanism _LLK . The first determination timing coincides with the start timing of the operation effective period of the left button operation effect. However, the first determination timing may be a timing preceding the start timing by a third predetermined time (for example, 0.5 seconds). The second determination timing coincides with the end timing of the operation effective period of the left button operation effect. However, the second determination timing may be a timing after a fourth predetermined time (for example, 1 second) after the end timing. The third predetermined time and the fourth predetermined time match or do not match each other.

A specific example of the state control of the left lock mechanism L _LK related to the operation effective period will be described with reference to the first to fourth cases shown in FIGS. The first case corresponds to a case where no pushing force is applied to the left button 121L. The second case corresponds to a case where the left button 121L is lightly pressed only before the operation effective period and during the operation effective period. The third case corresponds to a case where the left button 121L is pressed lightly continuously from before the operation effective period until a predetermined timing after the operation effective period ends. The fourth case corresponds to a case where the pressing operation is continuously performed on the left button 121L from the start of the operation effective period until the predetermined timing after the operation effective period ends.

Before the left button operation effect is started and at the first determination timing, the left lock mechanism L _LK is in a lock operation state.
If the output signal level of the upper position sensor L _SS1 is at a low level in the first determination timing (ie, for example, if the left button 121L is the reference state), the performance control unit 403, a locking operation state of the left lock mechanism L _LK The state is switched to the unlocked state (first and fourth cases).
On the other hand, if the output signal level is the high level of the upper position sensor L _SS1 in the first determination timing (e.g., to be in the reference state by being pressed lightly left button 121L), locked state of the left lock mechanism L _LK The lock operation state of the left lock mechanism _LLK is maintained (second and third cases) while keeping the operation state from being unlocked. However, after that, when it is confirmed that the output signal level of the upper position sensor L _SS1 has become low before the end of the operation valid period, the state change of the left lock mechanism L _LK that has been retained is executed. That is, the state of the left lock mechanism _LLK is switched from the lock operation state to the lock release state (second case). If it is not confirmed that the output signal level of the upper position sensor L _SS1 becomes low even after the end of the operation effective period, the left lock mechanism L _LK is maintained in the lock operation state (first operation). 3 cases).

At the second determination timing, the left lock mechanism _LLK may be in an unlocked state or in a lock operation state.
If, at the second determination timing, the state of the left lock mechanism L _LK is the unlocked state and the output signal level of the upper position sensor L _SS1 is low (that is, for example, if the left button 121L is in the reference state). The effect control unit 403 switches the state of the left lock mechanism _LLK from the unlocked state to the locked operation state (first and second cases).
At the second determination timing, it is difficult to consider a situation in which the state of the left lock mechanism L _LK is in the lock operation state and the output signal level of the upper position sensor L _SS1 is at a low level. The unit 403 keeps the state of the left lock mechanism _{LLK in} the lock operation state.
In the second determination timing, if the output signal level is the high level of the left lock mechanism L and the upper position state a unlocked state of _LK sensor L _SS1 (e.g., the optionally continuously pressed the left button 121L 1 (If it is in the second operation state), the state of the left lock mechanism L _LK is retained from the unlocked state to the locked operation state, and the unlocked state of the left lock mechanism L _LK is maintained (fourth case). . However, after that, when it is confirmed that the output signal level of the upper position sensor L _SS1 has become low level, the state change of the left lock mechanism L _LK that has been retained is executed, that is, the state of the left lock mechanism L _LK Is switched from the unlocked state to the locked operating state (fourth case).
At the second determination timing, if the state of the left lock mechanism L _LK is the lock operation state and the output signal level of the upper position sensor L _SS1 is high, the effect control unit 403 determines the state of the left lock mechanism L _LK Is kept in the lock operation state (third case).

FIG. 24 is a partial functional block diagram of the gaming machine 100 related to state control of the lock mechanisms L _LK and R _LK . Effect control unit 403 can be considered a presentation main control unit 403a, and a lock control unit 403b that performs status control of the lock mechanism _{L LK} and _{R LK} under the control of the effect main control unit 403a, and includes a . Output signals of the sensors L _{SS1 to} L _SS3 and R _{SS1 to} R _SS3 are given to the production main control unit 403a and the lock control unit 403b.

The effect main control unit 403a is a left button lock release command for instructing to set the left lock mechanism _{LLK to} the unlocked state, and a left button lock for instructing to set the left lock mechanism _LLK to the lock operating state. Operation command, right button lock release command for instructing to set the state of the right lock mechanism R _{LK to} the unlocked state, and right button lock operation command for instructing to set the state of the right lock mechanism R _LK to the lock operation state Can be output to the lock control unit 403b, and the lock control unit 403b drives the lock mechanisms L _LK and R _LK in accordance with the instruction content of the output command of the production main control unit 403a, thereby controlling the lock mechanisms L _LK and R _LK . Perform state control.

However, the lock control unit 403b, in a time of receiving the left button unlock command, when the output signal of the upper position sensor L _SS1 corresponding to the left button 121L is high (i.e. for example the left button 121L is not in the reference state when), reserves to the state of the left lock mechanism L _LK the unlocked state in accordance with the left button lock release command, the state of the left lock mechanism L _LK and unlocking state when aligned predetermined condition after. Similarly, when the lock control unit 403b receives the right button unlock command, when the output signal of the upper position sensor R _SS1 corresponding to the right button 121R is at a high level (that is, the right button 121R is in the reference state, for example). no case), reserves to the state of the right lock mechanism R _LK the unlocked state in accordance with the right button unlock command, the unlocked state the state of the right lock mechanism R _LK when aligned predetermined condition after.

The lock control unit 403b, in a time of receiving the left button locking operation command, when the output signal of the upper position sensor L _SS1 corresponding to the left button 121L is high (i.e. for example the left button 121L is not in the reference state when), reserves to the state of the left lock mechanism L _LK the locked operating state in accordance with the left button lock operation command, the state of the left lock mechanism L _LK and locked operating state when a uniform predetermined condition after. Similarly, when the lock control unit 403b receives the right button lock operation command, when the output signal of the upper position sensor R _SS1 corresponding to the right button 121R is at a high level (that is, the right button 121R is in the reference state, for example). no case), reserves to the state of the right lock mechanism R _LK the locked operating state in accordance with the right button lock operation command, the lock operating state to state of the right lock mechanism R _LK when aligned predetermined condition after.

  FIG. 25 is an example of a flowchart of an operation related to execution of the left button operation effect among the operations of the effect main control unit 403a. While the effect timer interrupt process (see FIG. 7) is repeated, the operation shown in FIG. 25 is realized.

  First, when the left button operation effect is started, a left / right button sign effect (see FIG. 20), which is an effect for a predetermined time, is executed in step S11. When the left / right button indication effect ends, the process proceeds to step S12, and a left button specific effect (see FIG. 20), which is an effect for a predetermined time, is executed in step S12. When the left button specific effect ends, the process proceeds to step S13, and the execution of the left button operation promotion effect (see FIG. 20) is started in step S13. At the same time as the start of execution of the left button operation promotion effect, or a predetermined time before or after the execution start timing of the left button operation promotion effect, the effect main control unit 403a performs lock control on the left button unlock command in step S14. In addition, the operation effective period is started in step S15 and measurement of the elapsed time from the start timing of the operation effective period is started. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S16. The length of the operation effective period is set in advance to a predetermined time length (for example, 5 seconds).

In step S16, the effect main control unit 403a continuously executes the left button operation promotion effect without performing the left button operation effect or performing the left button operation effect according to the output signal of the lower position sensor L _SS2 . Specifically, in step S16, when the output signal of the lower position sensor L _SS2 is at a high level, it is determined that the left button 121L is being pressed, and the left button operation promotion effect is ended and then left When the button operation effect is executed and the output signal of the lower position sensor L _SS2 is at a low level, it is determined that the left button 121L is not pressed, and the left button operation is performed without performing the left button operation effect. Continue to execute the promotion effect In Step S16, when the output signal of the lower position sensor L _SS2 becomes a low level after the output signal of the lower position sensor L _SS2 becomes a high level and the execution of the effect during the left button operation is started, The left button operation promotion effect may be continuously executed without executing the left button operation promotion effect again, or the playback of the moving images constituting the left button operation effect may be paused.

  In step S17 following step S16, the elapsed time is confirmed. If the elapsed time has reached a predetermined time corresponding to the time length of the operation valid period (Y in step S17), the process proceeds to step S18, but if not, the process returns to step S16.

  In step S18, a left button result effect (see FIG. 20) is executed, and in subsequent step S19, the effect main control unit 403a outputs a left button lock operation command to the lock control unit 403b, and the operation in FIG. 25 ends. .

FIG. 26 is an example of a flowchart of the lock control process executed by the lock control unit 403b in relation to the operation of FIG. The lock control process of FIG. 26 is executed once every time the effect timer interrupt process (see FIG. 7) is executed once, for example. Note that flags FLG1 and FLG2, which will be described later, each take a value of 0 or 1, and 0 is assigned to the flags FLG1 and FLG2 when the gaming machine 100 is activated. Further, as described above, when the gaming machine 100 is activated, the left lock mechanism L _LK is in a lock operation state.

  In the lock control process, the lock control unit 403b first checks in step S31 whether or not a left button lock release command has been received from the effect main control unit 403a. If a left button unlock command is received this time, “1” is substituted for the flag FLG1 in step S32, and then the process proceeds to step S33. Otherwise, the process proceeds directly to step S33.

  In step S33, the value of the flag FLG1 is confirmed. If the value of the flag FLG1 is “1”, the process proceeds to step S34, and if the value of the flag FLG1 is “0”, the process proceeds to step S37.

In step S34, the output signal level of the upper position sensor L _SS1 is confirmed. If the output signal level of the upper position sensor L _SS1 is low (Y in Step S34), the lock control unit 403b sets the lock mechanism L _LK to the unlocked state in Steps S35 and S36 and sets the flag FLG1 to “ After substituting 0 ″, the process proceeds to step S37. On the other hand, if the output signal level of the upper position sensor L _SS1 is high (N in step S34), the process proceeds directly to step S37.

In step S37, the lock control unit 403b confirms whether or not the left button lock operation command has been received from the effect main control unit 403a this time. If a left button lock operation command is received this time, “0” is assigned to the flag FLG1 and “1” is assigned to the flag FLG2 in step S38, and then the process proceeds to step S39. Proceed to S39. After "1" to the flag FLG1 by receiving the left button lock release command is substituted (step S32), (hence the lock mechanism L _LK unlocking without output signal of the low level of the upper position sensor L _SS1 is confirmed When the process reaches step S38 (without entering a state), “0” is substituted for the flag FLG1, thereby causing the left button lock release command (that is, the instruction to set the lock mechanism L _LK to the unlock state). ) Will be discarded.

  In step S39, the value of the flag FLG2 is confirmed. If the value of the flag FLG2 is “1”, the process proceeds to step S40. If the value of the flag FLG2 is “0”, the lock control process is terminated.

In step S40, the output signal level of the upper position sensor L _SS1 is confirmed. If the output signal level of the upper position sensor L _SS1 is low (Y in step S40), the lock control unit 403b sets the lock mechanism L _LK to the lock operation state in steps S41 and S42 and sets the flag FLG2 to “ The lock control process is terminated after substituting 0 ″. On the other hand, if the output signal level of the upper position sensor L _SS1 is high (N in step S40), the lock control is performed without performing the processes in steps S41 and S42. The process ends.

Although the state control method of the left lock mechanism L _LK has been mainly described, the state control method of the right lock mechanism R _{LK is} the same as the state control method of the left lock mechanism L _LK , and the state control method of the left lock mechanism L _LK and The above description of the left button operation effect can be applied to the state control method of the right lock mechanism _RLK and the right button operation effect (the same applies to the examples and second embodiments described later). In this application, each term including “left button” or “left” in the explanation of the state control method of the left lock mechanism L _LK and the left button operation effect (for example, “left button”, “left button operation effect”, “Left button specific effect”, “Left button operation promotion effect”, “Left button operation effect”, “Left button result effect”, “Left button operation effect effect”, “Left button unlock command”, “Left “Button lock operation command”, “left lock mechanism”), “left button” can be read as “right button” or “left” can be read as “right”, and the left lock mechanism _LLK the symbol corresponding to the left button of the legend of the state control method and a left button operation effect may be read as the symbol corresponding to the right button (eg _{"121L", "L SS1 ~L} SS3", "L LK" , _{Respectively, "121R", "R SS1} ~R SS3", may be read as the _{"R LK").} The same applies to each of the examples and the second embodiment to be described later, and the same applies to the reverse case (reading “right” to “left”).

In this manner, the gaming machine 100 changes from the first state (for example, the state of FIG. 11A or FIG. 12A and includes the reference state) to the second state (for example, FIG. c) or a long button (121L, 121R) as a specific operation means for changing the state to the state shown in FIG. 12C (including the second operation state), and the state change can be limited. Limiting means (L _LK , R _LK ). This limitation can be released in a predetermined period (for example, an operation effective period).

  With such a configuration, in principle, the operation of bringing the long button to the second state is disabled, and an effect using the operation of the long button can be performed only in a specific situation. By making it possible to operate the long button only in a specific situation, a rare value is created for the situation where the long button can be operated, and the player's mood is realized by executing the operation effect of the long button Can be greatly increased. Further, by making it impossible to perform the operation of setting the long button to the second state outside the predetermined period, it becomes difficult to perform a dark operation on the long button outside the predetermined period. It is difficult for buttons to break down.

  Here, there may be a situation where the specific operation means is not in the first state (for example, the state shown in FIG. 11A or FIG. 12A and including the reference state) at the start of the predetermined period. As a situation where the specific operation means is not in the first state at the start of the predetermined period, in the case of the long buttons (121L, 121R), a constant operation force (pushing force) is applied to the long button before the start of the predetermined period. Can be considered that the long button is not in the reference state, and under this condition, as shown in FIG. 14, the lock mechanism as the limiting means may be physically in contact with the lower end of the long button. There is also sex. If the restriction is to be released in such a situation, the lock mechanism may be rubbed against the constituent members of the long button, and the lock mechanism and / or the long button may be damaged or deteriorated. Further, as shown in FIG. 14, when a pushing force is applied to the long button and the lower end of the long button is pressed against the lock mechanism, the lock mechanism is locked even if the lock mechanism is driven to realize the unlocked state. The mechanism may not be driven correctly.

  Therefore, when the long button (specific operation means) is not in the first state (for example, the state shown in FIG. 11 (a) or FIG. 12 (a)) at the start of the predetermined period, the restriction is released (the lock is released). (Transfer) is reserved (see FIG. 23B).

  As a result, the possibility that the specific operation means (long button) and / or the restriction means (lock mechanism) is damaged or deteriorated is reduced, and it is impossible in a situation where the lock mechanism cannot be driven correctly toward the unlocked state. No attempt is made to drive the locking mechanism (unreasonable driving is undesirable for the locking mechanism).

  However, when the release of the restriction is reserved, it is detected that the long button (specific operation means) is in the first state (for example, the state shown in FIG. 11A or FIG. 12A) before the end of the predetermined period. If so, the restriction is released (that is, the state is shifted to the unlocked state; see FIG. 23B).

  As a result, even when the release of the restriction is reserved, an effect using an operation to the specific operation means on the condition that the state returns to the first state within a predetermined period (an effect that can contribute to improving the interest of the game) Can be executed. In other words, for example, the player may lightly press the long button at or near the start timing of the operation effective period. In this case, if the lock is not released, the interest of the game is improved. The long button that contributes to the use of the long button becomes impossible, but if it is configured as described above, once the long button is pressed, the long button is pushed down (until the second operation state is reached). Can be pushed in).

  On the other hand, there may be a situation where the specific operation means is not in the first state after the predetermined period. As a situation where the specific operating means is not in the first state after the end of the predetermined period, in the example of the long buttons (121L, 121R), a constant operating force (pushing force) is applied to the long button from the middle of the predetermined period. In this situation, the long button remains in the second operation state (second state) even after the end of the predetermined period. There is a possibility that the lock mechanism and / or the long button may be damaged or deteriorated in the constituent members, and even if the lock mechanism is driven to realize the lock operation state, the lock mechanism cannot be driven correctly.

  Considering this, when the long button (specific operation means) is in the first state (for example, the state shown in FIG. 11 (a) or FIG. 12 (a)) after the predetermined period, the above restriction is executed. (In other words, the lock operation state is set; see FIG. 23B). When the first state is not established, the execution of the restriction is reserved (see FIG. 23D).

  This reduces the possibility that the specific operating means (long button) and / or the restricting means (lock mechanism) will be damaged or deteriorated, and is impossible in a situation where the lock mechanism cannot be driven correctly toward the lock operating state. No attempt is made to drive the locking mechanism (unreasonable driving is undesirable for the locking mechanism).

  However, if it is detected that the long button (specific operation means) is in the first state (for example, the state of FIG. 11 (a) or FIG. 12 (a)) when the execution of the restriction is reserved, The restriction is executed (that is, the lock operation state is entered; see FIG. 23 (d)).

  As a result, after the performance using the specific operation means is executed, the state of the specific operation means (long button) and the restriction means (lock mechanism) can be returned to the ideal state without difficulty.

  Hereinafter, in Examples EX1_1 to EX1_7 belonging to the first embodiment, further detailed operation examples or modifications of the gaming machine 100 according to the first embodiment will be described. As long as there is no contradiction, the matters described in any of the examples EX1_1 to EX1_7 described below can be applied to any other examples (that is, any two of the examples EX1_1 to EX1_7). It is also possible to combine the above embodiments).

[Example EX1_1]
Example EX1_1 will be described.

  FIG. 27 shows the special figure fluctuation pattern table THt_a included in the special figure fluctuation pattern table THt. In the example EX1_1, it is assumed that the special figure variation pattern determination is performed using the table THt_a.

  The special figure fluctuation pattern table THt_a includes special figure fluctuation patterns THp_a11 to THp_a15. The special symbol fluctuation times defined by the special figure fluctuation patterns THp_a11 to THp_a15 are 10 seconds, 20 seconds, 50 seconds, 70 seconds, and 90 seconds, respectively.

When the result of the special figure determination with respect to the determination target TT shows a loss, the special figure fluctuation pattern random number or the like is used, and the special figure fluctuation patterns THp_a11 to THp_a15 are 90%, 8.6%, 1%, and 0.3%, respectively. Selected with a probability of 0.1%, and
When the result of the special figure determination for the determination target TT indicates a big hit of any of special A to special D, general A and general B, the special figure fluctuation pattern random number or the like is used, and the special figure fluctuation patterns THp_a13, THp_a14, THp_a15 are The table THt_a is formed so as to be selected with a probability of 20%, 30%, and 50%, respectively.

  When the effect control unit 403 receives a change start command including information indicating the result of the special figure determination, the effect control unit 403 determines the content of the change effect based on the information, and executes the change effect of the determined content. Specifically, for example, a variation effect pattern table (special drawing variation effect pattern table) including a plurality of variation effect patterns (special drawing variation effect pattern) each defining the contents of the variation effect is stored in the sub ROM 432 in advance. Based on the change start command or the like, the content of the change effect is determined by selecting and determining one change effect pattern from the change effect pattern table.

  FIG. 27 shows, for convenience, whether or not the reach effect, the left button operation effect, and the right button operation effect are executed in the change effect corresponding to each special figure change pattern. Whether or not the reach effect, the left button operation effect, and the right button operation effect are executed in the change effect corresponding to each special figure change pattern is actually defined in the change effect pattern table in the sub ROM 432. Has been.

  When the special figure variation pattern THp_a11 or THp_a12 is selected for the determination target TT, the effect control unit 403 does not perform the reach effect in the change effect for the determination target TT, and either the left button operation effect or the right button operation effect. Also do not.

  When the special figure variation pattern THp_a13 is selected for the determination target TT, the effect control unit 403 executes a weak reach effect in the variation effect for the determination target TT, and performs the left button operation effect and the right button operation effect. Of these, only the left button operation effect is executed. At this time, the left button operation effect may be performed during (or before) execution of the weak reach effect.

  When the special figure variation pattern THp_a14 is selected for the determination target TT, the effect control unit 403 executes the middle reach effect in the variation effect for the determination target TT, and performs the left button operation effect and the right button operation effect. Among them, only the right button operation effect is executed. At this time, the right button operation effect may be performed during (or before) execution of the middle reach effect.

When the special figure variation pattern THp_a15 is selected for the determination target TT, the effect control unit 403 executes a strong reach effect in the variation effect for the determination target TT, and performs the left button operation effect and the right button operation effect. Perform both. At this time, the right button operation effect is executed after the left button operation effect. Both the left button operation effect and the right button operation effect may be performed during (or before) execution of the strong reach effect, or only the left button operation effect is performed before the strong reach effect is performed. The right button operation effect may be performed during the execution of.
When the special figure variation pattern THp_a15 is selected for the determination target TT, the effect control unit 403 performs the same weak reach effect as the strong reach effect when the pattern THp_a13 is selected in the variation effect for the determination target TT. And the left button operation effect is executed during the execution of the first half effect, and then the second button effect of the strong reach effect is executed and the right button operation effect is executed during the execution of the second half effect. May be.

  Each of the weak, medium and strong reach productions is a kind of reach production and has a high expectation degree of jackpot (the possibility of executing a jackpot game of any of A to D, A or B) It functions as an effect that suggests.

As shown in FIG. 28 (a), as derived from a particular view fluctuation pattern table THt_a and the expectation calculation formula of Fig. 27, weak, medium, and expectations jackpot suggest strong reach demonstration is, respectively, KT _A , KT _B, KT _C , “0 <KT _A <KT _B <KT _C <1” holds.

Since the weak reach production is executed when the special figure fluctuation pattern THp_a13 is selected for the determination target TT, the jackpot expectation degree KT _A suggested by the weak reach production is a jackpot associated with the special figure fluctuation pattern THp_a13. expectations of which any (special symbol determination information JP diagram fluctuation pattern THp_a13 is selected is the probability jackpot) KT _a. Similarly, the jackpot expectation degree KT _B suggested by the medium reach production is the jackpot expectation degree associated with the special figure fluctuation pattern THp_a14 (special figure determination information in which the special figure fluctuation pattern THp_a14 is selected is a big hit. Probability) KT _B. Similarly, the jackpot expectation degree KT _C suggested by the strong reach production is the jackpot expectation degree associated with the special figure fluctuation pattern THp_a15 (the special figure determination information in which the special figure fluctuation pattern THp_a15 is selected is the big hit. probability) is also the KT _C.

  Of the left button operation effect and the right button operation effect, only the execution of the left button operation effect is associated with the special figure fluctuation pattern THp_a13, and the right button operation effect is executed with respect to the special figure fluctuation pattern THp_a14. Since the execution of both the left button operation effect and the right button operation effect is associated with the special figure fluctuation pattern THp_a15, the expectation degree of jackpot suggested by the right button operation effect is the left button. The expectation degree of jackpot that is higher than the expected degree of jackpot suggested by the operation effect (see FIG. 28B) and suggested by the effect that performs both the left button operation effect and the right button operation effect is the left button operation effect. And the expectation degree of jackpot suggested by the effect of executing only one of the right button operation effects is higher. In addition, when the result of the special figure determination is a loss, both the left button operation effect and the right button operation effect are not executed at a large ratio, and when the result of the special figure determination is a big hit, Since at least one of the button operation effect and the right button operation effect is executed, each of the left button operation effect and the right button operation effect is an effect that suggests that the expectation of the jackpot is high, like the reach effect. You may understand that it works.

In the variation effect when the special figure variation pattern THp_a13 is selected, after the left button operation effect, in the final part of the weak reach effect, the winning effect that finally suggests whether or not the result of the special figure determination is a big hit Can be executed.
In the variation effect when the special figure variation pattern THp_a14 is selected, the winning effect can be executed in the final part of the middle reach effect after the right button operation effect.
In the variation effect when the special figure variation pattern THp_a15 is selected, the winning effect can be executed in the final portion of the strong reach effect after the left and right button operation effects.
The winning effect may be, for example, a center button operation effect. In this case, in the operation corresponding effect at the center button operation effect, it may be finally suggested whether or not the result of the special figure determination is a big hit.

[Example EX1_2]
Example EX1_2 will be described. In the above description (see FIGS. 20 and 21), after the left / right button indication effect is performed, the left button operation promotion effect (and the push operation to the left button 121L is performed) via the left button specific effect. In the case, the first button flow in which the operation corresponding to the operation for the left button is performed, the operation for promoting the right button operation through the right button specific effect (and the operation for the right button when there is a pressing operation to the right button 121R). One of the second effect flows in which the corresponding effect) is performed is performed, but the right button specific effect may also be performed after the left button specific effect is performed after the left and right button sign effect is performed. There may be a case where the third effect flow in which the changing effect ends without the right button operation promoting effect being performed is performed.

  For example, when the special figure variation pattern determination is performed using the table THt_a of FIG. 27, the effect control unit 403 changes the variation with respect to the determination target TT when the special diagram variation pattern THp_a12 is selected for the determination target TT. You may make it perform the production according to the 3rd production flow in production.

[Example EX1_3]
Example EX1_3 will be described. In a state where the left lock mechanism L _LK is maintained in the locked operating state, the operation effect urging pushing operation to the left button 121L (hereinafter, referred to as an operation effect press left button light) may be that is executed. The left button light press operation effect can also be performed in the change effect.

Even when the left button light press operation effect is performed, the effect control unit 403 sets the operation valid period. The operation effective period in the left button light press operation effect indicates a period during which an operation on the left button 121L (that is, an operation of pressing the left button 121L) is effective. The left button operation effect is performed before the left button light press operation effect is executed, and the left lock mechanism _LLK is in an unlocked state continuously from the execution of the left button operation effect. Except for the situation, regardless of the output signal level of the upper position sensor L _SS1 for the left button 121L, the left lock mechanism _LLK is not unlocked during the operation valid period of the left button light press operation effect. .

In the left button light press operation effect, if it is detected that the output signal level of the upper position sensor L _SS1 has become a high level during the operation valid period (that is, if an operation of lightly pressing the left button 121L is detected). In response to the detection, an operation corresponding effect is performed promptly. If a high-level output signal is not detected from the upper position sensor _LSS1 during the operation effective period in the left button light press operation effect, the operation corresponding effect is performed after the operation effective period expires (however, the operation corresponding effect is not executed) As good). The operation corresponding effect in the left button light press operation effect may include an effect suggesting the result of the special figure determination for the determination target TT.

[Example EX1_4]
Example EX1_4 will be described. The left button operation effect, the center button operation effect, or the right button operation effect may be performed at any timing other than during the execution period of the variable effect, for example, during the execution period of the jackpot game.

  For example, a left button operation effect or a right button operation effect may be performed during the jackpot game execution period. In the left button result effect or the right button result effect, the special event that triggered the execution of the jackpot game is performed. Based on the result of the special symbol determination in the figure determination, after the jackpot game, whether or not to enter the advantageous gaming state or the expectation level to be in the advantageous gaming state (high or low possibility of entering the advantageous gaming state) is suggested Also good.

  The main control unit 401 can control the gaming state in the reference gaming state or an advantageous gaming state that is more advantageous to the player than the reference gaming state. In the gaming machine 100 of the present embodiment, for example, the reference gaming state The advantageous gaming state corresponds to a low probability gaming state (more specifically, for example, a low probability non-electric support game state) and a high probability gaming state (more specifically, for example, a high probability electric support game state).

  Specifically, for example, if the result of the special figure determination that triggered the execution of the jackpot game indicates a jackpot of any one of the special A to special D, a predetermined game state that suggests that an advantageous gaming state will be obtained after the jackpot game When the good effect is performed as a result effect for the left button or a result effect for the right button, and the result of the special figure determination that triggered the execution of the jackpot game indicates a jackpot of the A or B, the advantageous game state after the jackpot game A predetermined bad effect different from the above-mentioned good effect is performed as the left button result effect or the right button result effect.

  In addition, when performing the left button operation effect or the right button operation effect during the jackpot game execution period, the result of the special figure determination that triggered the execution of the jackpot game is a special jackpot of any of the special A to special D In the case of showing, the result of the special figure determination that triggered the execution of the jackpot game so that the right button operation effect can be executed more easily than the left button operation effect shows the big hit of the A or B In this case, the left button operation effect may be more easily executed than the right button operation effect. Thereby, depending on whether the left button operation effect or the right button operation effect is performed during the jackpot game execution period (in other words, depending on whether the left button operation promotion effect or the right button operation promotion effect is performed). ), The degree of expectation that will be in an advantageous gaming state after the big hit game is suggested (the expectation is higher when the right button operation promotion effect is executed than when the left button operation promotion effect is executed).

[Example EX1_5]
Example EX1_5 will be described. The gaming machine 100 described above belongs to a loop machine in which a high-probability gaming state is completely or substantially maintained until a next jackpot is won when a specific jackpot is won. (For example, a gaming machine classified as an ST machine, a VST machine, or a V-loop machine, or a gaming machine classified as an old type two-type mixing machine).

[Example EX1_6]
Example EX1_6 will be described. In the present embodiment, the long buttons (121L, 121R) are exemplified as the specific operation means that changes the state from the first state to the second state in response to an operation input, but the form of the specific operation means is arbitrary. . For example, the button of any form that cannot be pushed down against the pressing force when the state change from the first state to the second state is limited may be the specific operation means, or the handle-like or lever-like operation The means may be a specific operation means.

When the handle-like operation means is the specific operation means, the specific operation means rotates around the predetermined rotation angle with the predetermined axis as the rotation axis according to the input of the operation. When the change in state is limited, even if an operating force is applied, the rotation does not occur partially or as a whole.
When the lever-shaped operation means is the specific operation means, the position of the specific operation means moves from the first position to a second position different from the first position in response to an operation input. When the state change from the first state to the second state is limited, the position of the specific operation means does not reach the second position even if an operation force is applied.

[Example EX1_7]
Example EX1_7 will be described. Regarding the specific operation means, the restriction on the state change from the first state to the second state includes an arbitrary action in which the state change from the first state to the second state due to an operation input is prohibited, hindered, or suppressed. Limiting the state change from the first state to the second state also includes the meaning that the specific operation means cannot be operated. At least one of the position and form of the specific operation means is different between the first state and the second state.

[Consideration of Invention Regarding First Embodiment]
Consider the invention embodied in the first embodiment.

The gaming machine W _{1A according} to one aspect of the present invention can be operated by a player, and from a first state (for example, a reference state; see FIG. 11A or FIG. Operation means (for example, the left long button 121L and the right long button 121R) that changes state to a second state (for example, the second operation state; see FIG. 11C or FIG. 12C), and the state change. Restricting means (for example, left lock mechanism L _LK , right lock mechanism R _LK ) that can be restricted, and an effect executing means that controls the restricting means and executes a predetermined effect according to the input of the operation. In the gaming machine, the restriction means can release the restriction in a predetermined period (for example, an operation effective period), and when the operation means is not in the first state at the start of the predetermined period, To withdraw the restriction. And butterflies.

  With such a configuration, in principle, the operation of bringing the operation means to the second state is disabled, and it is possible to perform an effect using the operation on the operation means only in a specific situation. By making it possible to operate the operation means only in a specific situation, a rare value is created for the situation where the operation means can be operated, and the player's mood is improved by performing the performance using the operation means. It can be greatly excited. In addition, by making it impossible to perform the operation of setting the operating means to the second state outside the predetermined period, it becomes difficult to perform a dark operation on the operating means outside the predetermined period, resulting in malfunction of the operating means. It becomes difficult to occur.

Here, there may be a situation where the operating means is not in the first state at the start of the predetermined period. If the restriction is to be released in such a situation, the restriction means and / or the operation means may be damaged or deteriorated due to a physical collision between the restriction means and the operation means. Further, as in the example shown in FIG. 14, when the operation force is applied to the operation means (121 L, 121 R) and the operation means is pressed against the restriction means (L _LK , R _LK ), the restriction is released. Even if the limiting means is driven as much as possible, the limiting means may not be driven correctly.

In consideration of this, in the gaming machine W _1A , when the operation means is not in the first state at the start of the predetermined period, the release of the restriction is reserved (see, for example, FIG. 23B). Thus, operation means (121L, 121R) and / or limiting means _{(L LK, R} LK) is reduced may be such damage or degradation, also, in a situation that can not drive the limiting means correctly towards the release of the restriction Therefore, there is no need to forcibly drive the limiting means (unreasonable driving is undesirable for the limiting means).

Further, for example, in the gaming machine W _1A , the effect execution means performs the predetermined effect (for example, an operation corresponding effect for the left button, an effect corresponding to the operation for the right button; FIG. 20, FIG. 20) according to the input of the operation during the predetermined period. 21), and when the operation means is not in the first state at the start of the predetermined period, the restriction means reserves the release of the restriction, and the operation means before the end of the predetermined period. May be released when it is detected that is in the first state.

  As a result, even when the release of the restriction is reserved, an effect using the operation on the operation means (an effect that can contribute to an increase in the interest of the game) on condition that the state returns to the first state within a predetermined period. It becomes possible to execute.

The gaming machine W _{1B according} to one aspect of the present invention can be operated by a player, and from a first state (for example, a reference state; see FIG. 11A or FIG. 12A) according to the input of the operation. Operation means (for example, the left long button 121L and the right long button 121R) that changes state to a second state (for example, the second operation state; see FIG. 11C or FIG. 12C), and the state change. Restricting means (for example, left lock mechanism L _LK , right lock mechanism R _LK ) that can be restricted, and an effect executing means that controls the restricting means and executes a predetermined effect according to the input of the operation. In the gaming machine, the restriction unit can release the restriction during a predetermined period (for example, an operation effective period), and the restriction unit is configured to release the restriction when the operation unit is in the first state after the predetermined period. While performing Means characterized in that reserves the execution of the not in the first state limit.

  With such a configuration, in principle, the operation of bringing the operation means to the second state is disabled, and it is possible to perform an effect using the operation on the operation means only in a specific situation. By making it possible to operate the operation means only in a specific situation, a rare value is created for the situation where the operation means can be operated, and the player's mood is improved by performing the performance using the operation means. It can be greatly excited. In addition, by making it impossible to perform the operation of setting the operating means to the second state outside the predetermined period, it becomes difficult to perform a dark operation on the operating means outside the predetermined period, resulting in malfunction of the operating means. It becomes difficult to occur.

  Here, there may be a situation in which the operating means is not in the first state after the end of the predetermined period. If an attempt is made to execute the restriction in such a situation, the restriction means and / or the operation means may be damaged or deteriorated due to a physical collision between the restriction means and the operation means. In addition, even if an attempt is made to drive the restriction means to realize the restriction, the restriction means may not be driven correctly.

Considering this, in the gaming machine W _1B , when the operating means is not in the first state after the end of the predetermined period, the execution of the restriction is reserved (see, for example, FIG. 23D). As a result, the possibility that the operating means (121L, 121R) and / or the limiting means (L _LK , R _LK ) will be damaged or deteriorated is reduced, and the limiting means cannot be driven correctly to achieve the restriction. Therefore, there is no need to forcibly drive the limiting means (unreasonable driving is undesirable for the limiting means).

Also, for example, in the gaming machine W _1B , the effect execution means performs the predetermined effect (for example, an operation corresponding effect for the left button, an effect corresponding to the operation for the right button; FIG. 20, FIG. 20) according to the input of the operation during the predetermined period. 21), and the restriction means reserves execution of the restriction if the operation means is not in the first state after the predetermined period, and the operation means is in the first state. The above restriction may be executed when the error is detected.

  As a result, after the performance using the operation means is executed, the restricted state can be returned to the state that should be in principle without difficulty.

<< Second Embodiment >>
A second embodiment will be described. Although not particularly conscious of the description so far, each operation described above in the gaming machine 100 including the description in the basic embodiment and the first embodiment is an operation of the gaming machine 100 in the normal operation mode. The gaming machine 100 can operate in either a normal operation mode or an inspection mode different from the normal operation mode. For example, by supplying a predetermined inspection start signal from the outside of the gaming machine 100 to the gaming machine 100 (for example, the main control unit 401 and the effect control unit 403) at a manufacturing factory of the gaming machine 100, the gaming machine 100 is in the inspection mode. It works with. Unless the inspection start signal is supplied to the gaming machine 100, the gaming machine 100 operates in the normal operation mode.

  In describing the operation of the gaming machine 100 in the inspection mode, a description of the components and the like of the gaming machine 100 will be supplemented.

  FIG. 29 shows a schematic relationship diagram of the outer frame 10, the inner frame 11, the door frame 12, and the game board 101. As described above, the gaming machine 100 includes the outer frame 10 attached to the island structure arranged in the gaming facility, the inner frame 11 attached to the outer frame 10 so as to be opened and closed, and the inner frame 11 opened and closed. The door frame 12 is freely attached, and the door frame 12 is formed with a window portion 12a in which a glass plate is fitted (see also FIG. 1). The game board 101 can be fitted into a fitting hole (not shown) formed in the inner frame 11, and the gaming machine 100 is formed by fitting the game board 101 into the fitting hole.

  Referring to FIG. 30, left long button light 171L and central button 121C for causing left long button 121L to emit light are emitted to left long button 121L, center button 121C, and right long button 121R, respectively. A central button light 171C and a right long button light 171R for causing the right long button 121R to emit light are provided, and these lights can be formed of a light emitting diode or the like.

  The light emission of the button 121C means that the light 171C associated with the button 121C is caused to emit light so that the button 121C appears to shine. The same applies to the light emission of the buttons 121L and 121R. That is, the expression “light emission of the buttons 121L, 121C, and 121R” is synonymous with the light emission of the lights 171L, 171C, and 171R, respectively.

  The light 171L is capable of causing the button 121L to emit light (in other words, so that the button 121L can be illuminated). For example, the light 171L is accommodated in the button 121L. It is arranged at the associated position. Similarly, the light 171C can cause the button 121C to emit light (in other words, the button 121C can be illuminated), for example, is housed in the button 121C, or is, for example, in the vicinity of the button 121C. It is arranged at a position associated with the button 121C. Similarly, the light 171R can emit the button 121R (in other words, the button 121R can be illuminated), for example, is housed in the button 121R, or is, for example, in the vicinity of the button 121R. It is arranged at a position associated with the button 121R.

  The light 171C can emit light in any of a plurality of colors including white, red, and blue. Therefore, the emission color of the center button 121 is one of a plurality of colors including white, red, and blue. The light 171L can emit light in blue, and the light 171R can emit light in red. Therefore, the emission color of the left button 121L is blue, and the emission color of the right button 121R is red. Each of the lights 171L and 171R may be configured to emit light in any of a plurality of colors, similarly to the light 171C.

  The lights 171L, 171C and 171R are the same as the left frame light 116L, the center frame light 116C and the right frame light 116R arranged on the left side, upper side and right side of the game board 101 shown in FIG. 4). Accordingly, an inspection processing unit 700 (see FIG. 32), which includes the effect control unit 403 and the effect control unit 403, will be described later, and whether or not the lights 171L, 171C and 171R and the lights 116L, 116C and 116R emit light and the light emission mode. Can be individually controlled.

  FIG. 31 is a top view of the operation key 122 provided on the door frame 12. The operation key 122 includes a left key 122L, a center key 122C, and a right key 122R.

  Hereinafter, the operation of the gaming machine 100 described in the second embodiment is the operation of the gaming machine 100 in the inspection mode unless otherwise specified.

  FIG. 32 is a partial block diagram of the gaming machine 100, and shows a block diagram of a part particularly related to the operation of the gaming machine 100 in the inspection mode. The inspection processing unit 700 that functions beneficially in the inspection mode may be included in the effect control unit 403. Alternatively, the inspection processing unit 700 may be configured by the effect control unit 403 and the main control unit 401.

The door frame 12 has a left key sensor 122L _SS that detects whether the left key 122L is operated and outputs a detection result, and a center key sensor 122C that detects whether the center key 122C is operated and outputs the detection result. _SS , a right key sensor 122R _SS that detects whether the right key 122R has been operated and outputs a detection result, and a central button sensor 121C _SS that detects whether the center button 121C has been operated and outputs the detection result The detection results of these sensors are supplied to the inspection processing unit 700. The operations on the left key 122L, the center key 122C, the right key 122R, and the center button 121C are operations for pressing the left key 122L, the center key 122C, the right key 122R, and the center button 121C, respectively.

The first is detailed in embodiment and door frame 12 installed sensor _L SS1 _{~L SS3} and _R SS1 _{to R} detection result of _SS3 (ie, the output signal of the sensor _L SS1 _{~L SS3} and _R SS1 _{to R SS3} ) Is also supplied to the inspection processing unit 700.

Inspection processing unit 700, a write 171L, 171C and 171R and the light 116L, can be controlled individually presence and light emitting mode of the light emission of 116C and 116R, and individually control the state of the lock mechanism _{L LK} and _{R LK} can do. In addition, the inspection processing unit 700 can perform drive control of the movable frame accessory 117 (see FIG. 1) and operation control of the speaker unit 115. In addition, the inspection processing unit 700 can also control the operation of rendering means (including the movable board 130, the board lamp 135, and the image display unit 104) provided in the game board 101.

  FIG. 33 is a flowchart of the operation of the gaming machine 100 in the inspection mode (particularly the operation of the inspection processing unit 700).

  In the inspection mode, the inspection processing unit 700 first executes a frame inspection process for confirming the operation of one or more frame parts provided in the game frame in step S100. When the operation check of each frame component that is the object of the operation check in the frame inspection process is completed (Y in step S101), the process proceeds to step S200. The transition to step S200 is limited until the operation check of each frame component that is the target of the operation check in the frame inspection process is completed. In step S <b> 200, the inspection processing unit 700 executes a board inspection process for confirming the operation of one or more board parts provided in the game board 101. When the operation check of each panel component that is the target of the operation check is completed in the board inspection process (Y in step S201), the operation of the inspection processing unit 700 in the inspection mode ends.

  The game frame is configured by the inner frame 11 and the door frame 12, or is configured by the outer frame 10, the inner frame 11, and the door frame 12.

The frame component includes an arbitrary component provided in the game frame. For example,
Keys 122L, 122C and 122R, and sensors 122L _SS , 122C _SS , 122R _SS provided in correspondence therewith,
Buttons 121L, 121C and 121R, and sensors L _{SS1 to} L _SS3 , 121C _SS and R _{SS1 to} R _SS3 , lock mechanisms L _LK and R _LK provided in correspondence therewith,
Lights 116L, 116C, 116R, 171L, 171C and 171R;
Speakers 115L, 115C and 115R;
The frame movable accessory 117 belongs to a frame part.
Part or all of the frame parts provided in the game frame are the targets of operation confirmation in the frame inspection process. Note that the number of frame parts that are subject to operation confirmation in the frame inspection process may be any number as long as it is one or more.

The board parts include arbitrary parts provided on the game board 101. For example,
An image display unit 104, a panel lamp 135 and a panel movable accessory 130;
SW 414a, 414b, 415, 416 and 417,
Solenoids 420 and 421;
The information display unit 114 belongs to a panel part. Various SWs (424 to 427) connected to the prize ball control unit 402, the launching unit 428, and the like may also belong to the board parts.
Part or all of the board components provided in the game board 101 are targets for operation confirmation in the board inspection process. It should be noted that the number of board parts that are subject to operation confirmation in the board inspection process may be any number as long as it is one or more.

――― Figure 34; Inspector's work process in frame inspection process ―――
A specific example of the frame inspection process will be described below with reference to FIG. In the frame inspection process and the board inspection process, the operation confirmation of the frame part and the board part is performed using manual operation and visual confirmation by an inspector. FIG. 34 shows the work process of the inspector in the frame inspection process.

  In the frame inspection process, the inspector first presses the center button 121C in step S11, and then sequentially presses the left key 122L, right key 122R, and center key 122C in step S112. However, the pressing order of the keys 122L, 122R, and 122C here may be arbitrary. Thereafter, the inspector performs a push operation of the right long button 121R in step S113, and subsequently performs a push operation of the left long button 121L in step S114. More specifically, in step S113, the inspector places the right long button 121R in the second operation state by applying a pushing force, and then stops pushing and returns the right long button 121R to the reference state (see FIG. 12). ). Similarly, in step S114, the inspector places the left long button 121L in the second operation state by applying a pushing force, and then stops pushing and returns the left long button 121L to the reference state (see FIG. 11). In step S115 following step S114, the inspector presses the center button 121C to complete the work process of the inspector in the frame inspection process.

――― Figures 35 to 35; Operation flow of inspection processing unit in frame inspection processing
35 and 36 are flowcharts showing the flow of operations of the inspection processing unit 700 in the frame inspection processing.

  When the frame inspection process is started, first, in step S121, the inspection processing unit 700 starts light emission of the center button 121C in white and light emission of the left frame light 116L and the right frame light 116R in white. As described above, the light emission of the center button 121C is realized by the light emission of the center button light 171C. Note that when the button or light is simply “light emission”, it means that the button or light is continuously emitted, unlike the flashing described later.

In subsequent step S122, inspection processing unit 700 refers to the detection result of center button sensor 121C _SS and checks whether or not pressing of center button 121C is detected. If the pressing of the center button 121C is not detected (N in step S122), the confirmation process in step S122 is repeated. On the other hand, if the pressing of the center button 121C is detected (Y in step S122), the process proceeds to step S123. Thus, the processes of steps S123 to S126 are performed.

  In step S123, the inspection processing unit 700 starts blinking the center button 121C in white. The blinking of the center button 121C in white means that the light emission of the center button light 171C in white is blinked, and the light emission in white of the center button 121C is blinked.

In step S124, the inspection processing unit 700, after the lock mechanism _{L LK} and _{R LK} is driven controlled locking mechanism _{L LK} and _{R LK} as both a lock release state, the flow proceeds to step S125. Note that both the lock mechanisms L _LK and R _LK are in a lock operation state at the start of the frame inspection process.

In step S125, the inspection processing unit 700 confirms the output signals of the lock sensors L _SS3 and R _SS3 . If the lock mechanisms L _LK and R _LK are normally driven in step S124, the output signal levels of the lock sensors L _SS3 and R _SS3 should be high (see FIG. 16). Therefore, when the output signal levels of the lock sensors L _SS3 and R _SS3 confirmed in step S125 are both high (Y in step S126), the lock mechanisms L _LK and R _LK are normally driven. If it is determined that the lock sensors L _SS3 and R _SS3 are operating normally, the process proceeds to step S127. If not (N in step S126), at least one of the lock mechanisms L _LK and R _LK is normally driven. Or at least one of the lock sensors L _SS3 and R _SS3 is not operating normally, and the process proceeds to step S140.

In step S140, the inspection processing unit 700 performs a predetermined error notification to inform the examiner that at least one to an abnormality of the lock mechanism _{L LK} and _{R LK} and the lock sensor _{L SS3} and _{R SS3.} The specific method of the error notification is arbitrary, and the error notification may be realized by using an image display on the image display unit 104, an audio output from the speaker unit 115, or the like. Of the output signal levels of the lock sensors L _SS3 and R _SS3 confirmed in step S125, only the output signal level of the lock sensor L _SS3 is low, and only the output signal level of the lock sensor R _SS3 is low. And the case where the output signal levels of the lock sensors L _SS3 and R _SS3 are both low level, the contents of error notification may be different from each other, which makes it easy to identify an abnormal location. After the error notification in step S140, execution of the board inspection process may be restricted.

In step S127, the inspection processing unit 700 refers to the detection results of the left, center, and right key sensors 122L _SS , 122C _SS, and 122R _SS to check whether or not the first key is detected. If the pressing of the first key is not detected (N in step S127), the confirmation process in step S127 is repeated. On the other hand, if the pressing of the first key is detected (Y in step S127), the process proceeds to step S128. .
Here, the first key refers to any one of the left key 122L, the center key 122C, and the right key 122R, and each of the second key and the third key described later includes the left key 122L, the center key 122C, and It refers to any one of the right keys 122R. However, the first to third keys are different from each other. Accordingly, the first key, the second key, and the third key are, for example, the left key 122L, the right key 122R, and the center key 122C, respectively.

  In step S128, the inspection processing unit 700 switches the light emission color of the center button 121C from white to red, starts light emission of the center button 121C in red, and proceeds to step S129.

In step S129, the inspection processing unit 700 refers to the detection results of the left, center, and right key sensors 122L _SS , 122C _SS, and 122R _SS to check whether or not the second key has been pressed. If the pressing of the second key is not detected (N in step S129), the confirmation process in step S129 is repeated. On the other hand, if the pressing of the second key is detected (Y in step S129), the process proceeds to step S130. .

  In step S130, the inspection processing unit 700 switches the light emission color of the center button 121C from red to blue to start light emission of the center button 121C in blue, and proceeds to step S131.

In step S131, the inspection processing unit 700 refers to the detection results of the left, center, and right key sensors 122L _SS , 122C _SS, and 122R _SS to check whether or not the third key is pressed. If the pressing of the third key is not detected (N in step S131), the confirmation process in step S131 is repeated. On the other hand, if the pressing of the third key is detected (Y in step S131), the process proceeds to step S132. .

  In step S132, the inspection processing unit 700 switches the light emission color of the center button 121C from blue to white to start light emission by white of the center button 121C, and proceeds to step S133 (see FIG. 36).

  In step S133, the inspection processing unit 700 performs a right long button inspection process. When the right long button inspection process is completed, the inspection processing unit 700 performs a left long button inspection process in step S134. When the left long button inspection process ends, the process proceeds to step S135. Details of the right long button inspection process and the left long button inspection process will be described later.

In step S135, the inspection processing unit 700 refers to the detection result of the center button sensor 121C _SS and confirms whether or not the pressing of the center button 121C is detected. If the pressing of the center button 121C is not detected (N in step S135), the confirmation process in step S135 is repeated. On the other hand, if the pressing of the center button 121C is detected (Y in step S135), the process proceeds to step S136. Thus, the processes of steps S136 to S138 are performed.

In step S136, the inspection processing unit 700 drives and controls the lock mechanisms L _LK and R _LK such that both the lock mechanisms L _LK and R _LK are in the lock operation state, and then proceeds to step S137.

In step S137, the inspection processing unit 700 confirms the output signals of the lock sensors L _SS3 and R _SS3 . If the lock mechanisms L _LK and R _LK are normally driven in step S136, the output signal levels of the lock sensors L _SS3 and R _SS3 should be low (see FIG. 16). Therefore, when the output signal levels of the lock sensors L _SS3 and R _SS3 confirmed in step S137 are both low (Y in step S138), the lock mechanisms L _LK and R _LK are normally driven. In addition, it is determined that the lock sensors L _SS3 and R _SS3 are operating normally, and the process proceeds to step S139. If not (N in step S138), at least one of the lock mechanisms L _LK and R _LK is normally driven. Or at least one of the lock sensors L _SS3 and R _SS3 is not operating normally, and the process proceeds to step S141.

  In step S139, the inspection processing unit 700 substitutes (sets) “1” for the frame inspection processing completion flag, and then ends the frame inspection processing. When the frame inspection process ends, the board inspection process (step S200 in FIG. 33) is subsequently executed. The frame inspection processing completion flag is stored in a non-volatile bright memory built in the inspection processing unit 700 or the effect control unit 403. Before reaching step S139, “0” is assigned to the frame inspection processing completion flag. The frame inspection process completion flag of “1” indicates that the frame inspection process has been completed normally (that is, the operation check of each frame component that is the target of the operation check in the frame inspection process has been completed). The frame inspection process completion flag of “0” does not indicate that the frame inspection process is normally completed.

In step S141, the inspection processing unit 700 performs a predetermined error notification to inform the examiner that at least one to an abnormality of the lock mechanism _{L LK} and _{R LK} and the lock sensor _{L SS3} and _{R SS3.} The specific method of the error notification is arbitrary, and the error notification may be realized by using an image display on the image display unit 104, an audio output from the speaker unit 115, or the like. Of the output signal levels of the lock sensors L _SS3 and R _SS3 confirmed in step S137, only the output signal level of the lock sensor L _SS3 is high, and only the output signal level of the lock sensor R _SS3 is high. And when the output signal levels of the lock sensors L _SS3 and R _SS3 are both high, the contents of the error notification may be different from each other, thereby making it easy to identify an abnormal location. After the error notification in step S141, execution of the board inspection process may be restricted.

  In the frame inspection process of FIGS. 35 and 36 under the assumption that all the frame parts operate normally, when the center button 121C is pressed by the inspector (S111 in FIG. 34), the process proceeds to step S127 in FIG. When the left, right, and center keys 122L, 122R, and 122C are sequentially pressed (S112 in FIG. 34), the process proceeds to step S132 in FIG. Thereafter, when the inspector pushes the right long button 121R (S113 in FIG. 34), the right long button inspection process in FIG. 36 proceeds, and then the inspector pushes the left long button 121L. (S114 in FIG. 34), the left long button inspection process in FIG. 36 proceeds. Finally, when the inspector presses the center button 121C (S115 in FIG. 34), the frame inspection process is completed through steps S135 to S139 in FIG.

Referring to FIG. 37, before explaining the right long button inspection process, the right long button under the assumption that the lock mechanism _RLK is in the unlocked state and all the frame parts are operating normally. An output change of the upper position sensor R _SS1 and the lower position sensor R _SS2 with respect to the pressing operation of the button 121R will be described. As described with reference to FIGS. 12A to 12C, when the right long button 121R is pushed from the reference state as a starting point, the right long button 121R is changed from the reference state to the first operation state. In this process, the output signal levels of the sensors R _SS1 and R _SS2 change (see FIG. 37). After reaching the second operation state, if the pushing force applied to the right long button 121R is removed, the state of the right long button 121R changes from the second operation state to the first operation state by the elastic force of the spring member. Transition to the reference state. Even in this process, the output signal levels of the sensors R _SS1 and R _SS2 change (see FIG. 37). In the drawings, the low level may be represented by “L” and the high level may be represented by “H”. In the right long button inspection process, as the state of the right long button 121R sequentially shifts from the reference state to the first operation state, the second operation state, the first operation state, and the reference state in this order, the right frame The light emission color of the light 116R is sequentially shifted from white to red, green, blue, and white in this order (provided that all the frame components are operating normally). The same applies to the left long button inspection process and the emission color of the left frame light 116L.

FIG. 38 is a flowchart of the right long button inspection process in step S133 of FIG. In the right long button inspection process, it is confirmed whether at least the upper position sensor R _SS1 and the lower position sensor R _SS2 are operating correctly. When the right long button inspection process is started, the process proceeds to step S151.

In step S151, the inspection processing unit 700 checks the output signal levels of the upper position sensor R _SS1 and the lower position sensor R _SS2 , and the output signal levels of the sensors R _SS1 and R _SS2 are a high level and a low level, respectively. Only in some cases, the process proceeds to step S152 (corresponding to the change from Z1 to Z2 in FIG. 37). Otherwise, the confirmation process in step S151 is repeated. In step S152, the inspection processing unit 700 switches the light emission color of the right frame light 116R from white to red to start light emission of the right frame light 116R in red, and proceeds to step S153.

In step S153, the inspection processing unit 700 checks the output signal levels of the upper position sensor R _SS1 and the lower position sensor R _SS2 , and performs the step only when the output signal levels of the sensors R _SS1 and R _SS2 are both high. While proceeding to S154 (corresponding to the change from Z2 to Z3 in FIG. 37), the confirmation process of step S153 is repeated otherwise. In step S154, the inspection processing unit 700 switches the emission color of the right frame light 116R from red to green to start emission of the right frame light 116R in green, and the process proceeds to step S155.

In step S155, the inspection processing unit 700 confirms the output signal levels of the upper position sensor R _SS1 and the lower position sensor R _SS2 , and the output signal levels of the sensors R _SS1 and R _SS2 are a high level and a low level, respectively. Only in some cases, the process proceeds to step S156 (corresponding to the change from Z3 to Z4 in FIG. 37). Otherwise, the confirmation process in step S155 is repeated. In step S156, the inspection processing unit 700 switches the emission color of the right frame light 116R from green to blue to start emission of the right frame light 116R in blue, and the process proceeds to step S157.

In step S157, the inspection processing unit 700 checks the output signal levels of the upper position sensor R _SS1 and the lower position sensor R _SS2 , and performs the step only when the output signal levels of the sensors R _SS1 and R _SS2 are both low. While proceeding to S158 (corresponding to the change from Z4 to Z5 in FIG. 37), if not, the confirmation processing in step S157 is repeated. In step S158, the inspection processing unit 700 switches the emission color of the right frame light 116R from blue to white and starts emission of white light from the right frame light 116R, and then ends the right long button inspection process.

FIG. 39 is a flowchart of the left long button inspection process in step S134 of FIG. In the left long button inspection process, it is confirmed whether at least the upper position sensor L _SS1 and the lower position sensor L _SS2 are operating correctly. When the left long button inspection process is started, the process proceeds to step S161.

In step S161, the inspection processing unit 700 confirms the output signal levels of the upper position sensor L _SS1 and the lower position sensor L _SS2 , and the output signal levels of the sensors L _SS1 and L _SS2 are a high level and a low level, respectively. While the process proceeds to step S162 only in the case (corresponding to the change from Z1 to Z2 in FIG. 37), the confirmation process in step S161 is repeated otherwise. In step S162, the inspection processing unit 700 switches the emission color of the left frame light 116L from white to red to start the red emission of the left frame light 116L, and proceeds to step S163.

In step S163, the inspection processing unit 700 confirms the output signal levels of the upper position sensor L _SS1 and the lower position sensor L _SS2 , and only when the output signal levels of the sensors L _SS1 and L _SS2 are both high. While proceeding to S164 (corresponding to the change from Z2 to Z3 in FIG. 37), the confirmation process in step S163 is repeated otherwise. In step S164, the inspection processing unit 700 switches the emission color of the left frame light 116L from red to green, starts emission of the left frame light 116L in green, and proceeds to step S165.

In step S165, the inspection processing unit 700 confirms the output signal levels of the upper position sensor L _SS1 and the lower position sensor L _SS2 , and the output signal levels of the sensors L _SS1 and L _SS2 are a high level and a low level, respectively. While the process proceeds to step S166 only in the case (corresponding to the change from Z3 to Z4 in FIG. 37), the confirmation process in step S165 is repeated otherwise. In step S166, the inspection processing unit 700 switches the emission color of the left frame light 116L from green to blue to start emission of the left frame light 116L in blue, and the process proceeds to step S167.

In step S167, the inspection processing unit 700 checks the output signal levels of the upper position sensor L _SS1 and the lower position sensor L _SS2 , and performs the step only when the output signal levels of the sensors L _SS1 and L _SS2 are both low. While proceeding to S168 (corresponding to the change from Z4 to Z5 in FIG. 37), the confirmation process of step S167 is repeated otherwise. In step S168, the inspection processing unit 700 switches the emission color of the left frame light 116L from blue to white and starts light emission of the left frame light 116L in white, and then ends the left long button inspection process.

――― Board inspection process ――――
The board inspection process executed after the end of the frame inspection process is a process for confirming the operation of one or more board parts provided in the game board 101 as described above.

For example, in the board inspection process, the inspection processing unit 700 drives and controls the shutter accessory 130a so that the shutter accessory 130a returns to the reference state again after the state of the shutter accessory 130a shifts from the reference state to the operating state. Processing is performed (see FIGS. 2A and 2B). At this time, the inspector can confirm the operation of the shutter accessory 130a by visually confirming the movement of the shutter accessory 130a.
A shutter accessory sensor (not shown) capable of detecting whether the state of the shutter accessory 130a is in the reference state or the operating state is provided in the game board 101, and the detection result of the shutter accessory sensor is inspected by the inspection processing unit 700. It may be supplied to. Based on the detection result of the shutter accessory sensor when the shutter accessory inspection process is performed, the inspection processing unit 700 determines whether the shutter accessory 130a is normally driven and whether the shutter accessory sensor is abnormal. Can be confirmed. In this case, the shutter accessory 130a and the shutter accessory sensor are included in the operation confirmation targets in the board inspection process.

Further, for example, in the board inspection process, the inspection processing unit 700 moves the arm-like accessory 130b so that the arm-like accessory 130b returns to the reference state again after the state of the arm-like accessory 130b shifts from the reference state to the operating state. The character combination inspection process is performed (see FIGS. 3A and 3B). At this time, the inspector can confirm the operation of the arm-shaped accessory 130b by visually confirming the movement of the arm-shaped accessory 130b.
An arm-like accessory sensor (not shown) capable of detecting whether the state of the arm-like accessory 130b is in the reference state or the operating state is provided in the game board 101, and the detection result of the arm-like accessory sensor is inspected. You may supply to the process part 700. FIG. Then, based on the detection result of the arm-shaped accessory sensor when the arm-shaped accessory inspection process is performed, the inspection processing unit 700 determines whether the arm-shaped accessory 130b is normally driven and the arm-shaped accessory sensor. The presence or absence of abnormalities can be confirmed. In this case, the arm-like accessory 130b and the arm-like accessory sensor are included in the operation confirmation targets in the board inspection process. In the normal operation mode, the effect control unit 403 can operate the arm-shaped accessory 130b from the reference state to the operating state during the changing effect based on the result of the special figure determination. The accessory 117 is also operated from the reference state to the operating state. For this reason, in the board inspection process, the inspection processing unit 700 operates the movable frame accessory 117 from the reference state to the operating state in accordance with the operation of the arm-shaped accessory 130b from the reference state to the operating state. May be.

  Further, for example, in the panel inspection process, the inspection processing unit 700 controls the panel lamp 135 so that the panel lamp 135 emits light in a predetermined light emission mode. At this time, the inspector can confirm the operation of the panel lamp 135 by visually confirming whether or not the panel lamp 135 actually emits light and how the light is emitted. In addition, any board component can be included in the operation check target in the board inspection process.

――― Feature 1 ――――
The frame parts that are subject to the operation check in the frame inspection process of FIGS. 35 and 36 include at least the sensors 122L _SS , 122C _SS , 122R _SS for the operation key 122 and the sensors L _{SS1 to} L _SS3 for the operation button unit 121. , 121C _SS and R _{SS1 to} R _SS3 and the lock mechanisms L _LK and R _LK are included, and if any one of those frame parts is abnormal, it depends on the form of the abnormality, The operation check of each frame component is not completed (in other words, the frame inspection process is not completed), and the board inspection process is not performed (the process does not proceed to step S200 in FIG. 33).

For example, when there is an abnormality that the center button sensor 121C _SS cannot detect that the center button 121 has been pressed, the operation of each frame component does not reach step S123 in the frame inspection process of FIGS. Confirmation is not completed (in other words, the frame inspection process is not completed) and the board inspection process is not performed.
Similarly, for example, if there is an abnormality that the left key sensor 122L _SS cannot detect that the left key 122L has been pressed, the center key sensor 122C _SS cannot detect that the center key 122C has been pressed. If there is an abnormality that the right key sensor 122R _SS cannot detect that the right key 122R has been pressed, step S132 is not reached in the frame inspection processing of FIGS. The operation check of the component is not completed (in other words, the frame inspection process is not completed), and the board inspection process is not performed.
Similarly, for example, when there is an abnormality in which one of the sensors L _{SS1 to} L _SS3 and R _{SS1 to} R _SS3 cannot correctly detect its own detection target, or the state of the lock mechanism L _LK or R _LK does not switch normally. If there is an abnormality such as this, it may occur that the process does not reach step S135 in the frame inspection process of FIG. 35 and FIG. No progress to board inspection process

  As described above, the inspection processing unit 700 performs the frame inspection process for confirming the operation of one or more frame parts provided in the game frame in a predetermined inspection mode, and then is provided in the game board 101. A board inspection process for confirming the operation of one or more board parts is executed. At this time, the inspection processing unit 700 limits the execution of the panel inspection process until the operation confirmation of each frame component that is the object of the operation confirmation in the frame inspection process is completed (FIGS. 33, 35, and FIG. 36).

  As a result, the operation of the frame part is not completed, but the process proceeds to the panel inspection process for confirming the operation of the panel part. As a result, the operation of the frame part is incomplete (including the state in which the frame part is abnormal). ), The occurrence of a situation in which the gaming machine 100 is shipped can be suppressed. In addition, by checking the operation of each part in the flow of proceeding to the operation check of the panel part after completing the operation check of the frame part, the inspector can concentrate on the operation check of the frame part in the first half frame inspection process, In the latter half of the board inspection process, it will be possible to concentrate on the operation confirmation of the board parts, and it is expected that the operation confirmation object will be easy to understand and the operation confirmation work will proceed smoothly and accurately. In the process sequence of confirming the operation of the panel parts and then confirming the operation of the other frame parts, the confirmation procedure becomes complicated.

――― Feature 2 ―――
In the right long button inspection process, by changing the light emission mode of the right frame light 116R one after another in response to the pushing operation of the right long button 121R and the release of the pushing force (steps S152, S154, S156 in FIG. 38). , S158), the inspector can visually confirm whether the right frame light 116R can emit multiple colors, and the sensors R _SS1 and R _SS2 for the right long button 121R and the lock mechanism R _LK are normal. You can check if it is working.

These confirmations are included in the operation confirmation of the right frame light 116R, the sensors R _SS1 and R _SS2 , and the lock mechanism R _LK , and the operation confirmation can be performed by operating the right long button 121R in a predetermined manner. In the right long button inspection process, it can be said that the inspection processing unit 700 can notify the inspector whether or not the right long button 121R has been operated in a predetermined manner. By this notification, the inspector can be surely informed whether or not the right long button 121R has been correctly operated in a predetermined manner necessary for operation confirmation. The operation of the right long button 121R in a predetermined mode corresponds to a pressing operation for shifting the state of the right long button 121R from the reference state to the second operation state, or after the pressing operation and the right long button 121R It may be considered that this corresponds to an operation of returning the scale button 121R to the reference state.

  When the right long button inspection process is performed, the inspector puts the right long button 121R into the second operation state by applying a pushing force, and then stops pushing to return the right long button 121R to the reference state. Only when this series of operations is performed correctly, the light emission color of the right frame light 116R shows a color change from white to red, green, and blue to white. This color change corresponds to notification that the right long button 121R has been operated in a predetermined manner. The light emission of the right frame light 116R without color change corresponds to a notification that the right long button 121R is not operated in a predetermined manner.

For example, in the right long button inspection process, the right long button 121R does not reach the second operation state after the state of the right long button 121R has reached the first operation state from the reference state after the inspector has not pushed in enough. When the push of the button 121R is finished, the emission color of the right frame light 116R is red (see FIG. 38). The fact that the emission color of the right frame light 116R is maintained in red corresponds to notification that the right long button 121R is not operated in a predetermined manner. Upon receiving this notification, when the inspector performs a sufficient pressing operation on the right long button 121R, the emission color of the right frame light 116R changes from red to green, and then the right frame light 116R is stopped by stopping the pressing. The emission color changes from green to blue to white. However, for example, when there is abnormality in the lower position sensor R _SS2, the emission color of the right frame light 116R is not changed from red also pushed deeply many times the right long button 121R. In such a case, the identification of the defective portion is proceeded with the assumption that there is an abnormality in the lower position sensor R _SS2 or the right frame light 116R.

  In step S158 of FIG. 38, the inspection processing unit 700 switches the light emission color of the right frame light 116R from blue to a fifth color (for example, yellow) different from white, red, green, and blue to change the right frame light 116R. After starting the emission of the fifth color, the right long button inspection process may be finished. In this case, light emission by the fifth color of the right frame light 116R can be said to correspond to a notification that the right long button 121R has been operated in a predetermined manner.

  The notification mode when notifying the examiner whether or not the right long button 121R has been operated in a predetermined mode is not limited to the above-described mode using the right frame light 116R. The notification may be realized by image display or sound output from the speaker unit 115.

――― Feature 3 ―――
In the left long button inspection process, by changing the light emission mode of the left frame light 116L one after another in response to the pushing operation of the left long button 121L and the release of the pushing force (steps S162, S164, S166 in FIG. 39). , S168), the inspector can visually confirm whether the multi-color light emission of the left frame light 116L is possible, and the sensors L _SS1 and L _SS2 and the lock mechanism L _LK for the left long button 121L are normal. You can check if it is working.

These confirmations are included in the operation confirmation of the left frame light 116L, the sensors L _SS1 and L _SS2 , and the lock mechanism L _LK , and the operation confirmation can be performed by operating the left long button 121L in a predetermined manner. In the left long button inspection process, it can be said that the inspection processing unit 700 can notify the inspector whether or not the left long button 121L has been operated in a predetermined manner. By this notification, the inspector can be surely informed whether or not the left long button 121L has been correctly operated in a predetermined manner necessary for operation confirmation. The operation of the left long button 121L in a predetermined mode corresponds to a push-in operation for shifting the state of the left long button 121L from the reference state to the second operation state, or after the push-in operation and the left long button 121L It may be considered that this corresponds to an operation of returning the scale button 121L to the reference state.

  When the left long button inspection process is performed, the inspector puts the left long button 121L into the second operation state by applying a pushing force, and then stops pushing to return the left long button 121L to the reference state. Only when this series of operations is performed correctly, the emission color of the left frame light 116L shows a color change from white to red, green, and blue to white. This color change corresponds to notification that the left long button 121L has been operated in a predetermined manner. The light emission of the left frame light 116L without color change corresponds to notification that the left long button 121L is not operated in a predetermined manner.

For example, in the left long button inspection process, the left long button 121L does not reach the second operation state after the indentation amount of the inspector is insufficient and the state of the left long button 121L reaches the first operation state from the reference state. When the push of the button 121L is finished, the emission color of the left frame light 116L is red (see FIG. 39). The fact that the emission color of the left frame light 116L is maintained in red corresponds to notification that the left long button 121L is not operated in a predetermined manner. Upon receiving this notification, when the inspector performs a sufficient pushing operation on the left long button 121L, the emission color of the left frame light 116L changes from red to green, and then the pushing is stopped, whereby the left frame light 116L. The emission color changes from green to blue to white. However, for example, when there is abnormality in the lower position sensor L _SS2, the emission color of the left frame write 116L does not change from red also pushed deeply many times left long button 121L. In such a case, the identification of the defective portion is advanced with the assumption that there is an abnormality in the lower position sensor L _SS2 or the left frame light 116L.

  Also, in step S168 in FIG. 39, the inspection processing unit 700 switches the emission color of the left frame light 116L from blue to a fifth color (for example, yellow) different from white, red, green, and blue to change the left frame light 116L. After the light emission by the fifth color is started, the left long button inspection process may be finished. In this case, it can be said that the light emission by the fifth color of the left frame light 116L corresponds to a notification that the left long button 121L has been operated in a predetermined manner.

  The notification mode when notifying the inspector whether or not the left long button 121L has been operated in a predetermined mode is not limited to the above-described mode using the left frame light 116L. The notification may be realized by image display or sound output from the speaker unit 115.

――― Feature 4 ―――
In the frame inspection process of FIGS. 35 and 36, by changing the light emission mode of the center button 121C in response to the pressing of the center button 121C (steps S121 to S123 in FIG. 35), the inspector can select the center button 121C (center It can be visually confirmed whether or not the light emission mode of the button light 171C) can be changed, and whether the central button sensor 121C _SS is functioning correctly can be confirmed.

These confirmations are included in the operation confirmation of the center button light 171C and the center button sensor 121C _SS , and the operation confirmation can be performed by operating the center button 121C in a predetermined manner. 35 and 36, the inspection processing unit 700 can notify the inspector whether or not the center button 121C has been operated in a predetermined manner. That is, for example, after the step S121 of FIG. 35, if the center button 121C is operated in a predetermined manner (that is, pressed), the light emission mode of the center button 121C is switched from white continuous light emission to white flashing light emission. If the center button 121C is not operated in a predetermined manner (that is, not pressed), the light emission mode of the center button 121C remains white. For this reason, the flashing white light emission of the central button 121C after step S121 and before any of the first to third keys is operated corresponds to a notification that the central button 121C has been operated in a predetermined manner. The white continuous light emission of the center button 121C corresponds to a notification that the center button 121C is not operated in a predetermined manner. The inspector can recognize whether or not the center button 121C has been operated in a predetermined mode by receiving notification of the light emission mode of the center button 121C.

  Note that the notification mode when notifying the examiner whether or not the center button 121C has been operated in a predetermined mode is not limited to the above-described mode using the light emission mode of the center button 121C. The notification may be realized by image display or sound output from the speaker unit 115.

――― Feature 5 ―――
In the frame inspection process of FIGS. 35 and 35, the light emission mode of the center button 121C is successively changed in response to the sequential operation of the first to third keys including the left key 122L, the right key 122R, and the center key 122C. (Steps S127 to S132 in FIG. 35), the inspector can visually confirm whether the central button 121C (center button light 171C) is capable of multi-color light emission, and the key sensors 122L _SS , 122R _SS and 122C. You can check if the _SS is functioning correctly.

These confirmations are included in the operation confirmation of the center button light 171C and the key sensors 122L _SS , 122R _SS and 122C _SS , and the operation confirmation can be performed by operating the first to third keys in a predetermined manner. In the frame inspection process of FIGS. 35 and 36, it can be said that the inspection processing unit 700 can notify the inspector whether or not the first to third keys are operated in a predetermined manner. The operation of the first to third keys in a predetermined manner is a series of operations in which the first key is pressed, the second key is pressed, and the third key is pressed in order. After reaching step S127, this series of operations is performed. Only when the above operation is performed correctly, the light emission mode of the center button 121C shows a light emission mode change from white flashing light emission to red light emission and blue light emission to white light emission (continuous light emission). This light emission mode change or the white continuous light emission of the center button 121C corresponds to a notification that the first to third keys are operated in a predetermined mode. The light emission of the central button 121C without the light emission mode change corresponds to notification that the first to third keys are not operated in a predetermined mode. The inspector can recognize whether or not the first to third keys are operated in a predetermined manner by receiving the notification by the light emission manner of the center button 121C.

  Note that the mode of notification when notifying the examiner whether or not the first to third keys are operated in a predetermined mode is not limited to the above-described mode using the light emission mode of the center button 121C, and the image display unit The notification may be realized by image display at 104 or sound output from the speaker unit 115.

――― Feature 6 ―――
Long button (121L, 121R), except during the operation check in the test mode, which is used only in the production which utilizes an elongated button, locking the lock mechanism L _LK and R _LK is at unnecessary timing Activated. From this point of view, before the start of the frame inspection process, the lock mechanisms L _LK and R _LK are in a locked operation state, and are unlocked when a long button pressing operation is required in the frame inspection process. (Step S124 in FIG. 35). Before the frame inspection process is completed, the lock mechanisms L _LK and R _LK are returned to the lock operation state (step S136 in FIG. 36), and the process proceeds to the panel inspection process.

  As a result, push-in operations at an unnecessary timing and rattling of the long button (including rattling at the time of manufacture of the gaming machine 100, at the time of shipping inspection, and at the time of transportation), etc. are suppressed. Deterioration and failure of the scale button and its peripheral parts are suppressed.

  Hereinafter, in Examples EX2_1 to EX2_3 belonging to the second embodiment, further detailed operation examples or modifications of the gaming machine 100 according to the second embodiment will be described. As long as there is no contradiction, the matters described in any of the examples EX2_1 to EX2_3 described below can be applied to any other examples (that is, any two of the examples EX2_1 to EX2_3). It is also possible to combine the above embodiments).

[Example EX2_1]
Example EX2_1 will be described.

  After the frame inspection process is started, the inspection processing unit 700 compulsorily performs the frame inspection process if a predetermined forced transition condition is satisfied even if the operation confirmation of each frame component that is the target of the operation confirmation is not completed. The board inspection process may be executed after the process is terminated.

  This makes it possible to deal with cases where it is necessary to proceed to the board inspection process, or when it is desired to perform the board inspection process, even when the operation confirmation of each frame part has not been completed. Will be able to run.

  For example, when performing the frame inspection process, the inspection processing unit 700 measures an elapsed time from the execution start timing of the frame inspection process, and forcibly when the elapsed time reaches a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds). It may be determined that the first forced transition condition as the transition condition is satisfied. In this case, for example, if the elapsed time reaches a predetermined time during the execution of the left long button inspection process in step S134 of FIG. 36, the inspection processing unit 700 includes the left long button inspection process at that time. The frame inspection process is forcibly terminated and the board inspection process is started.

  In the case of mass production of the gaming machines 100, it is necessary to proceed with each inspection for a large number of gaming machines 100 one after another by a flow work within a predetermined time, and the progress of a certain inspection is caused by some reason. If it is stuck in, the entire flow work will be adversely affected. By using the first forced transition condition, since the upper limit of the time required for the frame inspection process is fixed, it is possible to suppress the delay of the flow work and to improve the production efficiency when manufacturing a large number of gaming machines 100. .

  Even when the first forced transition condition is used, it is usually assumed that the frame inspection process is completed in a time shorter than the predetermined time (for example, about 10 seconds), and in a time shorter than the predetermined time. If the left long button inspection process (step S134 in FIG. 36) is completed, the inspector presses the center button 121C to immediately end the frame inspection process (steps S135 to S139 in FIG. 36), and the board inspection. Can proceed to processing. This contributes to reduction of the entire inspection time.

[Example EX2_2]
Example EX2_2 will be described. In the example EX2_1, the example of the forced transition condition is not limited to the first forced transition condition described above, and any other condition may be set as the forced transition condition. For example, the forced transition condition may be the following second or third forced transition condition.

  The second forced transition condition is satisfied when it is detected that the specific operation means is operated in a predetermined forced transition instruction mode. The specific operation means may be any operation means that can be operated by the examiner, and may be any one of the buttons 121L, 121C, and 121R and the keys 122L, 122C, and 122R, or a combination thereof.

More specifically, for example, when the center button 121C is used as the specific operation unit, the inspection processing unit 700 refers to the detection result of the center button sensor 121C _SS during execution of the frame inspection process, and the center button 121C is It is determined that the second forced transition condition is satisfied when it is detected that the button is continuously pressed three times within the time.
Alternatively, for example, when the keys 122L and 122R are used as the specific operation means, the inspection processing unit 700 refers to the detection results of the key sensors 122L _SS and 122R _SS and simultaneously presses the keys 122L and 122R during the frame inspection process. When it is detected that the second forced transition condition has been established, it is determined that the second forced transition condition has been established.

  The third forced transition condition is satisfied when the inspection processing unit 700 receives a predetermined forced transition signal. In the inspection process at the time of manufacturing the gaming machine 100, the forced transition signal may be supplied to the inspection processing unit 700 from the outside of the gaming machine 100 as necessary.

[Example EX2_3]
Example EX2_3 will be described. As described above, the inspection processing unit 700 limits the execution of the panel inspection process until the operation confirmation of each frame component that is the target of the operation confirmation in the frame inspection process is completed (FIG. 33, FIG. 33). 35 and FIG. 36). The completion of the operation check here means that the operation check is normally completed, that is, it is confirmed that the operation of each frame component that is the target of the operation check is normal.

For example, if a sensor that performs some detection (122L _SS , 122C _SS , 122R _SS , L _{SS1 to} L _SS3 , 121C _SS, and R _{SS1 to} R _SS3, etc.), when the sensor can correctly detect its own detection target, The operation of the sensor is normal, otherwise the operation of the sensor is abnormal. If it is a lock mechanism, the operation of the lock mechanism is normal when the state of the lock mechanism can be normally switched from the lock operation state to the lock release state and can be switched from the lock release state to the lock operation state. Otherwise, there is an abnormality in the operation of the lock mechanism.

In the frame inspection process of FIGS. 35 and 36,
Proceeds from step S122 to step S123 may be taken to mean the completion of the operation check of the center button sensor 121C _SS (that has been confirmed that the operation of the central button sensor 121C _SS is normal), check the operation The center button 121C can be operated (ie, pressed) in a predetermined manner.
Proceeds from step S127 to step S132 in via step S128~S131 are left, right, center key sensor _122L SS, completion of the operation check 122R _SS and 122C _SS (sensor _122L SS, the operation of the 122R _SS and 122C _SS The operation confirmation can be performed by operating the first to third keys in a predetermined manner (that is, sequentially pressing).
The combination of steps S126 and Migration and step S138 to step S127 to step S139 is that the operation of the lock mechanism _{L LK} and completion of the operation check of the _{R LK} (lock mechanism _{L LK} and _{R LK} is normal It can be considered that this means that the operation of the lock sensors L _SS3 and R _SS3 has been confirmed (the operation of the lock sensors L _SS3 and R _SS3 has been confirmed to be normal).

The transition from step S151 to step S158 via steps S152 to S157 in the right long button inspection process of FIG. 38 is the completion of the operation confirmation of the sensors R _SS1 and R _SS2 (the operations of the sensors R _SS1 and R _SS2 are completed). It can be considered that the operation has been confirmed to be normal), and the operation confirmation is that the right long button 121R is operated in a predetermined manner (the state of the right long button 121R is changed from the reference state to the second operation). The operation including the push-in operation for shifting to the state is performed).
The transition from step S161 to step S168 via steps S162 to S167 in the left long button inspection process of FIG. 39 is the completion of the operation confirmation of the sensors L _SS1 and L _SS2 (the operations of the sensors L _SS1 and L _SS2 are completed). It can be considered that the operation confirmation is that the left long button 121L is operated in a predetermined manner (the state of the left long button 121L is changed from the reference state to the second operation). The operation including the push-in operation for shifting to the state is performed).

  However, even if it is not confirmed that the operation of the specific frame part included in the operation check target in the frame inspection process is normal and the operation of the specific frame part is recognized as abnormal, If it is mild, it may be considered that the operation check of the specific frame part has been completed, and the board inspection process may not be restricted.

  For example, the right frame light 116R has a plurality of light emitting diodes, and the right frame light 116R emits light by the light emission of the plurality of light emitting diodes, but only one light emitting diode of the plurality of light emitting diodes has a defect. When only one of the light emitting diodes cannot emit light, the operation of the right frame light 116R as a specific frame component is not completely normal but an abnormality is recognized, but the abnormality is mild, and the operation of the right frame light 116R The confirmation may be considered complete. This operation check may be performed visually by an inspector, or whether or not each light emitting diode in the right frame light 116R emits light is detected by detecting the value of the current flowing through each light emitting diode. Detection means (not shown) is provided in the inspection processing unit 700, and the operation result of the right frame light 116R is checked using the detection result of the detection means (whether each light emitting diode constituting the right frame light 116R can emit light). (Confirmation of whether or not) may be performed.

[Consideration of Invention Related to Second Embodiment]
Consider the invention embodied in the second embodiment.

Game machine W ₂ in accordance with one aspect of the present invention includes a game frame having one or more frame component comprising one or more panel parts, a game board to be fitted into the game frame at predetermined test mode, Inspection processing means for executing a panel inspection process for confirming the operation of the panel part after performing a frame inspection process for confirming the operation of the frame part, and the inspection processing means comprises the frame inspection The execution of the panel inspection process is limited until the operation confirmation of the frame part is completed in the process (see FIG. 33 and the like).

  As a result, the operation of the frame part is not completed, but the process proceeds to the panel inspection process for confirming the operation of the panel part. As a result, the operation of the frame part is incomplete (including the state in which the frame part is abnormal). ), It is possible to suppress the occurrence of situations such as game machines being shipped. In addition, by checking the operation of each part in the flow of proceeding to the operation check of the panel part after completing the operation check of the frame part, the inspector can concentrate on the operation check of the frame part in the first half frame inspection process, In the latter half of the board inspection process, it will be possible to concentrate on the operation confirmation of the board parts, and it is expected that the operation confirmation object will be easy to understand and the operation confirmation work will proceed smoothly and accurately. In the process sequence of confirming the operation of the panel parts and then confirming the operation of the other frame parts, the confirmation procedure becomes complicated.

Further, for example, in the gaming machine W _2, the inspection processing unit, even without operation check of said frame component is completed by the frame checking process, the establishment of a predetermined condition (e.g., forced transition condition), the board inspection The process may be executable.

  This makes it possible to deal with cases where it is necessary to proceed to the board inspection process, or when it is desired to perform the board inspection process, even when the operation confirmation of each frame part has not been completed. Will be able to run.

Further, for example, in the gaming machine W _2, operating means for the game frame (e.g., the right long button 121R) is provided, in the frame checking process, the specific frame by the operation means is operated in a predetermined manner The operation of components (for example, sensors R _SS1 and R _SS2 for detecting operation on the right long button 121R) can be confirmed, and the inspection processing unit is configured to perform the operation in the predetermined mode in the frame inspection processing. It may be possible to notify whether or not it has been operated (for example, notification is possible by the light emission mode of the right frame light 116R: see FIGS. 37 and 38).

  By this notification, it is possible to surely inform the inspector whether or not the operation means has been correctly operated in a predetermined mode necessary for operation confirmation, and as a result, it is possible to reliably confirm the operation of a specific frame part. (Check leakage is prevented).

<< Deformation, etc. >>
The embodiment of the present invention can be appropriately modified in various ways within the scope of the technical idea shown in the claims. The above embodiment is merely an example of the embodiment of the present invention, and the meaning of the term of the present invention or each constituent element is not limited to that described in the above embodiment. The specific numerical values shown in the above description are merely examples, and as a matter of course, they can be changed to various numerical values.

  Further, the present invention may be applied to other gaming machines such as slot machines that are not classified as pachinko gaming machines. In a pachinko gaming machine, a game ball is used as a game medium, while in a slot machine, a coin is used as a game medium.

100 the gaming machine 105, 106 starting opening 111 winning opening 401 main control unit 403 effect control unit 121L left long button 121R right long button 121C middle button L _{LK, R LK} locking mechanism L _{SS1, R SS1} upper position sensor L _SS2 , R _SS2 lower position sensor L _SS3 , R _SS3 lock sensor

Claims (1)

An operation means that can be operated by a player and changes state from the first state to the second state in response to an input of the operation;
Limiting means capable of limiting the state change;
An effect executing means for controlling the restricting means and executing a predetermined effect in response to an input of the operation,
The restriction means is capable of releasing the restriction during a predetermined period and reserves the release of the restriction when the operation means is not in the first state at the start of the predetermined period. Machine.

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