JP6315660B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine that performs a game.

  As an example of a gaming machine, a gaming medium such as a game ball is launched into a gaming area by a launching device, and a predetermined gaming value is determined based on the winning of a gaming medium in a winning area such as a winning opening provided in the gaming area. There is a pachinko machine that can be granted. As another example of the gaming machine, after setting a predetermined number of bets for one game using a game medium such as a medal, a coin, or a game ball similar to a pachinko gaming machine, the player operates the start lever. Thus, there is a slot machine that starts variable display of display symbols by the variable display device, and can give a predetermined game value based on the derived display result.

  As a technique applied to such a gaming machine, it has been proposed to perform mask processing on image data by changing the mask region with time to make the image data appear dynamically (for example, Patent Document 1).

JP 2007-105114 A

  With the technique described in Patent Document 1, the display image is monotonous only to change over time, and it may be difficult to improve the game entertainment.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide a gaming machine that improves the gaming interest.

(1) In order to achieve the above object, a gaming machine according to the present invention is a gaming machine that performs a game (for example, a pachinko gaming machine 1, a slot machine, etc.), and an image display means that displays an image (for example, an image display device) 5), detection means (for example, controller sensor unit 35A, push sensor 35B, etc.) for detecting the movement of the player, and control means for controlling the image display in the image display means. An arrangement means for arranging image data for displaying the image, a setting means for arranging setting data for setting the visibility change area, and the visibility change area moving based on the detection result of the detection means In addition, an image is displayed by executing a moving means for moving an arrangement position of the setting data, and image processing using the image data and the setting data. And a processing means for the processing means, when displaying the specific image superimposed on the background image, to display the image portion not included in the visibility change area of the specific image in a predetermined transparency The image portion included in the visibility changing region of the specific image is displayed with a transparency that is more transparent than the predetermined transparency, and the specific image is transmitted through the image portion included in the visibility changing region. The background image is displayed, and a promotion image that prompts the player's action is displayed in a period in which the setting data can be moved by the moving means. The transparency of the promotion image is determined by the player's action. Does not change based on.
According to such a configuration, the visibility change region is changed based on the result of detecting the operation of the detection target, so that the game entertainment can be improved.

(2) In the gaming machine of (1), the display area control unit may change the visibility changing area when the detection unit detects an operation of the detection target (for example, step) Based on the determination of Yes in S306 and S308, etc., the part that executes the process of step S309).
In such a configuration, the visibility change region is changed when the motion is detected, and the display suitable for the motion of the detection target is performed, so that the game entertainment can be improved.

(3) In the gaming machine of the above (1) or (2), determining means for determining whether or not to control to a specific gaming state advantageous to the player (for example, the gaming control microcomputer 100 for executing the processing of step S102) And the display area control means is configured so that the proportion of the specific gaming state varies depending on the size of the image portion that is not included in the visibility change area of the specific image. The degree change region may be changed (see, for example, FIG. 8).
In such a configuration, the ratio of entering the specific gaming state varies depending on the size of the image portion that is not included in the visibility changing region, so that the gaming interest can be improved.

(4) In any one of the above gaming machines (1) to (3), lighting control means for turning on the light emitting means in different lighting modes according to the change in the visibility change region (for example, the processing of steps S312 and S313). A CPU 120 for effect control to be executed may be provided.
In such a configuration, the game entertainment can be improved by changing the lighting mode of the light emitting means.

(5) In any one of the above gaming machines (1) to (4), the image control means may display a background image in the visibility changing area (for example, effect control for executing the process of step S311) CPU 120).
In such a configuration, display discomfort in the visibility changing region can be eliminated, and the game entertainment can be improved.

It is a front view of the pachinko gaming machine in this embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the various control boards etc. which were mounted in the pachinko game machine. It is a block diagram which shows the structural example of a display control part. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a special symbol process process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of a setting of a fluctuation pattern. It is a flowchart which shows an example of production control process processing. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a variable display start setting process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the various example of determination regarding a notice effect, etc. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the production process during variable display. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a notice effect control process. It is a figure which shows the update operation example of the display according to an input detection count value, and a lamp lighting. It is a figure which shows the example of a drawing process using a stencil buffer. It is a figure which shows the example of a setting of the alpha channel in a stencil layer. It is a figure which shows the execution example of the notice effect which changes the display state of a notice image.

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

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

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

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

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

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

  The decorative symbols variably displayed in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R include, for example, eight types of symbols (alphanumeric characters “1” to “8” or Chinese characters). It may be any combination of numbers, English letters, eight character images related to a predetermined motif, a combination of numbers, letters, symbols, and character images. Character images may be, for example, people, animals, other objects, or , A decorative image showing a symbol such as a character or other arbitrary figure). A corresponding symbol number is assigned to each of the decorative symbols. For example, symbol numbers “1” to “8” are assigned to alphanumeric characters indicating “1” to “8”, respectively. Note that the number of decorative symbols is not limited to eight, and may be any number as long as an appropriate number of combinations such as a jackpot combination or a combination that is lost can be configured (for example, seven types or nine types).

  After the decorative symbol variable display is started, the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R are displayed until the fixed decorative symbol that is the variable display result is derived and displayed. In FIG. 5, for example, scroll display is performed such that the symbol number sequentially flows from the top to the bottom from the smallest to the largest, and when the decorative symbol having the largest symbol number (for example, “8”) is displayed, The decorative symbol having the smallest symbol number (for example, “1”) is displayed. Alternatively, in at least one of the decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R (for example, the “left” decorative symbol display area 5L), the symbols are scrolled from the largest symbol number to the smallest symbol symbol. When the decorative design having the smallest number is displayed, the decorative design having the largest design number may be displayed.

  In the display area of the image display device 5, a start winning storage display area 5H is arranged. In the start winning memory display area 5H, a hold memory display for displaying the variable display hold number corresponding to the special figure game (special figure hold memory number) is specified. Here, the variable display suspension corresponding to the special game is that the game ball passes through the first start winning opening formed by the normal winning ball apparatus 6A and the second starting winning opening formed by the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B. Generated based on the start winning by entering (entering). That is, the start condition (also referred to as “execution condition”) for executing a variable display game such as a special figure game or a variable display of decorative symbols has been established, but a variable display game based on the previously established start condition is being executed. When the start condition that allows the start of the variable display game is not satisfied due to the fact that the pachinko gaming machine 1 is controlled to the big hit gaming state, the variable display corresponding to the established start condition is suspended. Done.

  In the example shown in FIG. 1, together with the start winning memory display area 5H, the first hold for displaying the special figure hold memory number in an identifiable manner on the upper part of the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B. A display 25A and a second hold display 25B are provided. The first hold indicator 25A displays the first special figure hold memory number so that it can be specified. The second hold indicator 25B displays the second special figure hold memory number so that it can be specified. The number of first special figure hold memory is the number of memory in which the execution of the special figure game using the first special figure is suspended. The second special figure hold memory number is the number of memories in which the execution of the special figure game using the second special figure is suspended. The variable display hold memory number obtained by adding the first special figure hold memory number and the second special figure hold memory number is also referred to as a total hold memory number. When simply referring to the “number of special figure hold memory”, it usually refers to a concept including any of the first special figure hold memory number, the second special figure hold memory number, and the total hold memory number. It may refer to a concept that includes the first special figure reserved memory number and the second special figure reserved memory number but excludes the total reserved memory number).

  Below the image display device 5, an ordinary winning ball device 6A and an ordinary variable winning ball device 6B are provided. The normal winning ball device 6A forms a first starting winning opening as a starting area (first starting area) that is always kept in a constant open state by a predetermined ball receiving member, for example. The normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B has an electric motor having a pair of movable wing pieces that are changed into a normal open state as a vertical position and an expanded open state as a tilt position by a solenoid 81 for a normal electric accessory shown in FIG. A tulip-shaped accessory (ordinary electric accessory) is provided, and a start area (second start area) and a second start winning opening are formed.

  As an example, in the normally variable winning ball apparatus 6B, the movable wing piece is in the vertical position when the solenoid 81 for the normal electric accessory is in the OFF state, so that the game ball passes (enters) the second starting winning opening. It is difficult to open normally. On the other hand, in the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B, the game ball passes through the second start winning opening by the tilt control in which the movable blade piece is tilted when the solenoid 81 for the normal electric accessory is in the ON state ( It will be in an expanded open state that is easy to enter. In the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B, although the game ball can enter the second start winning opening even in the normal open state, there is a possibility that the game ball may enter more than in the expanded open state. You may comprise so that it may become low. Alternatively, the normally variable winning ball apparatus 6B may be configured such that the game ball does not enter the second starting winning opening in the normally open state, for example, by closing the second starting winning opening. As described above, the second start winning opening as the second start area includes the expanded open state as the first variable state in which the game ball easily passes (enters), and the game ball hardly passes (enters) or passes (enters). ) It changes to the normally open state as the second variable state that cannot.

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

  A special variable winning ball device 7 is provided below the normal winning ball device 6A and the normal variable winning ball device 6B. The special variable winning ball apparatus 7 includes a special winning opening door that is opened and closed by a solenoid 82 for the special winning opening door shown in FIG. 2, and the specific region that changes between an open state and a closed state by the special winning opening door. As a big prize opening.

  As an example, in the special variable winning ball apparatus 7, when the solenoid 82 for the special prize opening door is in the OFF state, the special prize opening door closes the big winning prize opening, and the game ball passes (enters) the big winning prize opening. Make it impossible. On the other hand, in the special variable winning ball apparatus 7, when the solenoid 82 for the big prize opening door is in the ON state, the big winning opening door opens the big winning opening and the game ball passes through the big winning opening (entrance). ) Make it easier. In this way, the special winning opening as a specific area changes into an open state in which a game ball easily passes (enters) and is advantageous to the player, and a closed state in which the game ball cannot pass (enters) and is disadvantageous to the player To do. Instead of the closed state where the game ball cannot pass (enter) through the big prize opening, or in addition to the closed state, a partially opened state where the game ball hardly passes (enters) through the big prize port may be provided.

  The game ball that has passed (entered) through the big prize opening is detected by, for example, the count switch 23 shown in FIG. Based on the detection of game balls by the count switch 23, a predetermined number (for example, 15) of game balls are paid out as prize balls. In this way, when the game ball passes (enters) through the large winning opening opened in the special variable winning ball apparatus 7, the gaming ball passes through other winning openings such as the first starting winning opening and the second starting winning opening, for example. More prize balls are paid out than when passing (entering). Therefore, if the special prize winning ball device 7 is in the open state, the game ball can enter the special prize winning opening, which is a first state advantageous to the player. On the other hand, when the special prize winning device 7 is closed in the special variable prize winning ball device 7, it becomes impossible or difficult for the player to get a prize ball by passing (entering) the gaming ball into the special prize winning port. This is a disadvantageous second state.

  A normal symbol display 20 is provided at a predetermined position of the game board 2 (on the left side of the game area in the example shown in FIG. 1). As an example, the normal symbol display 20 is composed of 7 segments, dot matrix LEDs, and the like, like the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B, and a plurality of types of identification information different from the special symbols. Is displayed (variably displayed) in a variable manner. Such variable display of normal symbols is called a general game (also referred to as “normal game”).

  Above the normal symbol display 20, a universal figure holding display 25 </ b> C is provided. The general-purpose hold indicator 25C includes, for example, four LEDs, and displays the general-purpose hold storage number as the number of effective passing balls that have passed through the passing gate 41.

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

  Speakers 8L and 8R for reproducing and outputting sound effects and the like are provided at the left and right upper positions of the gaming machine frame 3, and a game effect lamp 9 is provided at the periphery of the game area. An input effect lamp 9A is provided on the right side of the image display device 5. A decorative LED may be arranged around each structure (for example, the normal winning ball device 6A, the normal variable winning ball device 6B, the special variable winning ball device 7, etc.) in the game area of the pachinko gaming machine 1. At the lower right position of the gaming machine frame 3, there is provided a hitting operation handle (operation knob) operated by a player or the like to launch a game ball as a game medium toward the game area. For example, the hitting operation handle adjusts the resilience of the game ball according to the operation amount (rotation amount) by the player or the like.

  At a predetermined position of the gaming machine frame 3 below the gaming area, a game ball paid out as a prize ball or a game ball lent out by a predetermined ball lending machine is held (stored) so as to be supplied to a ball hitting device. )) Is provided. Below the gaming machine frame 3, there is provided a lower plate that holds (stores) surplus balls overflowing from the upper plate so as to be discharged to the outside of the pachinko gaming machine 1.

  For example, a stick controller 31A that can be held and tilted by the player is attached to a member that forms the lower plate, for example, at a predetermined position on the front side of the upper surface of the lower plate main body (for example, a central portion of the lower plate). Yes. The stick controller 31 </ b> A includes an operation stick that the player holds. The operation stick of the stick controller 31A is a lever that can be used to input a tilt direction instruction when the player grips and tilts the stick. A trigger button is provided at a predetermined position of the operating rod (for example, a position where the index finger of the operating hand is applied when the player holds the operating rod). The trigger button of the stick controller 31A can be operated in a predetermined direction by performing a push-pull operation with a predetermined operation finger (for example, an index finger) while the player holds the operation rod with an operation hand (for example, the left hand). What is necessary is just to be comprised. A trigger sensor that detects a predetermined instruction operation such as a push / pull operation on the trigger button may be incorporated in the operation rod.

  A controller sensor unit 35A that detects a tilting operation with respect to the operating rod, a push-pull operation with respect to the trigger button, or the like may be provided in the lower pan body or the like below the stick controller 31A. For example, the controller sensor unit 35A includes two transmissive photosensors (parallel sensors) arranged in parallel to the board surface of the game board 2 on the left side of the center position of the operation pole when viewed from the player side facing the pachinko gaming machine 1. And a pair of transmissive photosensors (vertical sensor pairs) arranged perpendicularly to the surface of the game board 2 on the right side of the center position of the operation rod when viewed from the player side. A tilt direction sensor unit including a photo sensor may be provided. The tilt direction sensor unit detects the tilting motion of the operating rod with the operating rod (lever) of the stick controller 31A as a detection target. The motion that can be detected by the tilt direction sensor unit only needs to include the presence / absence of the tilt motion by the player and the motion direction. The controller sensor unit 35A only needs to include a push-pull motion sensor. The push / pull operation sensor detects the push / pull operation of the trigger button with the trigger button of the stick controller 31A as a detection target. The push / pull motion sensor only needs to detect the presence or absence of the push / pull motion by the player.

  The member that forms the upper plate includes, for example, a push button 31B that allows a player to perform a predetermined instruction operation by a pressing operation or the like at a predetermined position on the front side of the upper surface of the upper plate body (for example, above the stick controller 31A). Is provided. The push button 31B only needs to be configured to be able to detect a predetermined instruction operation such as a pressing operation from a player mechanically, electrically, or electromagnetically. A push sensor 35 </ b> B that detects the player's operation act on the push button 31 </ b> B may be provided inside the main body of the upper plate at the installation position of the push button 31 </ b> B. The push sensor 35B detects a push operation of the push button 31B with the push button 31B as a detection target. The push sensor 35B only needs to detect the presence or absence of a pressing operation by the player.

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

  The main board 11 is a main-side control board on which various circuits for controlling the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1 are mounted. The main board 11 is mainly addressed to a sub-side control board composed of a random number setting function used in a special game, a function of inputting a signal from a switch or the like disposed at a predetermined position, and an effect control board 12. A function of outputting and transmitting a control command as an example of command information as a control signal, a function of outputting various information to a hall management computer, and the like are provided. In addition, the main board 11 performs on / off control of each LED (for example, segment LED) constituting the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B, and thereby the first special diagram and the second special diagram. Variable display of a predetermined display pattern such as controlling the variable display of the normal symbol display 20 or controlling the variable symbol display of the normal symbol display 20 by controlling the lighting / extinction / coloring control of the normal symbol display 20. It also has a function to control.

  On the main board 11, for example, a game control microcomputer 100, a switch circuit 110, a solenoid circuit 111, and the like are mounted. The switch circuit 110 takes in detection signals from various switches for detecting game balls and transmits them to the game control microcomputer 100. The solenoid circuit 111 transmits a solenoid drive signal from the game control microcomputer 100 to the solenoid 81 for the ordinary electric accessory and the solenoid 82 for the special prize opening door.

  The effect control board 12 is a sub-side control board independent of the main board 11, receives the control signal transmitted from the main board 11 via the relay board 15, and receives the image display device 5, the speakers 8L, 8R. Various circuits for controlling the production operation by the electrical parts for production such as the game effect lamp 9 including the production time effect lamp 9A and the decoration LED are mounted. That is, the effect control board 12 includes all or part of the display operation in the image display device 5, the sound output operation from the speakers 8L and 8R, the game effect lamp 9 (including the input effect lamp 9A), the decoration LED, and the like. A function of determining control contents for causing the electrical component for production to execute a predetermined production operation, such as all or part of the lighting / extinguishing operation in the system, is provided.

  The sound control board 13 is a control board for sound output control provided separately from the effect control board 12, and outputs sound from the speakers 8 </ b> L and 8 </ b> R based on commands and control data from the effect control board 12. For example, a processing circuit for executing audio signal processing is mounted. The lamp control board 14 is a control board for lamp output control provided separately from the effect control board 12, and based on commands and control data from the effect control board 12, the game effect lamp 9 (input effect lamp 9A) and a lamp driver circuit that performs lighting / extinguishing driving in a decorative LED or the like.

  As shown in FIG. 2, wiring for transmitting detection signals from the gate switch 21, the first start port switch 22 </ b> A, the second start port switch 22 </ b> B, and the count switch 23 is connected to the main board 11. The gate switch 21, the first start port switch 22A, the second start port switch 22B, and the count switch 23 have an arbitrary configuration that can detect a game ball as a game medium, such as a sensor. What is necessary is just to have. In addition, the main board 11 includes a first special symbol display device 4A, a second special symbol display device 4B, a normal symbol display device 20, a first hold display device 25A, a second hold display device 25B, and a general drawing hold display device 25C. Wiring for transmitting a command signal for performing display control such as is connected.

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

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

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

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

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

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

  In this embodiment, on the side of the main board 11, a random number value MR1 for determining a special figure display result, a random value MR2 for determining a big hit type, a random value MR3 for determining a variation pattern, and a random number for determining a general map display result. Numerical data indicating each of the numerical values MR4 is controlled to be countable (updatable). In addition, in order to improve a game effect, random numbers other than these may be used.

  The random number value MR1 for determining the special figure display result is a random number value used for determining whether or not to control the big hit gaming state with the variable display result of the special symbol or the like in the special figure game as “big hit”. The random value MR2 for determining the big hit type is a random value used for determining the big hit type as one of a plurality of types when the variable display result is “big hit”. The random number value MR3 for determining the variation pattern is a random value used for determining any one of a plurality of types of variation patterns of the decorative pattern prepared in advance. The random value MR4 for determining the normal figure display result is controlled so that the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B is set to the first variable state in the open state or the expanded open state with the variable symbol display result of the normal symbol in the normal game as "per normal figure". It is a random value used to determine whether or not to do.

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

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

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

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

  In the effect control board 12, wiring for transmitting a video signal to the image display device 5, wiring for transmitting a sound effect signal as an information signal indicating sound number data to the sound control board 13, Wiring for transmitting an electrical decoration signal as an information signal indicating lamp data is connected to the lamp control board 14. Furthermore, on the effect control board 12, wiring for transmitting from the controller sensor unit 35A an operation detection signal as an information signal indicating that the player's operation action on the stick controller 31A has been detected, and a game for the push button 31B. Wiring for transmitting from the push sensor 35B an operation detection signal as an information signal indicating that the user's operation action has been detected is also connected.

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

  In addition to the effect control program, the ROM 121 mounted on the effect control board 12 shown in FIG. 2 stores various data tables used for controlling the effect operation. For example, the ROM 121 includes a plurality of determination tables prepared for the effect control CPU 120 to perform various determinations, determinations, and settings, table data configuring the determination tables, pattern data configuring various effect control patterns, and the like. It is remembered. The RAM 122 mounted on the effect control board 12 stores various data used for controlling the effect operation. The display control unit 123 mounted on the effect control board 12 determines the control content of the display operation in the image display device 5 based on the display control command from the effect control CPU 120. For example, the display control unit 123 performs control for executing decorative display variable display and various effect displays by determining the switching timing of effect images to be displayed in the display area of the image display device 5.

Figure 3 shows a configuration example of the display control unit 12 3. The display control unit 123 shown in FIG. 3 includes a VDP (Video Display Processor) 130, an image data memory 131, a VRAM (Video RAM) 132A, a frame buffer 132B, and an LCD drive circuit 133. Note that the VDP 130 may be a graphics processing unit (GPU), a graphics controller LSI (GCL), or a microprocessor for image processing, more commonly referred to as a DSP (Digital Signal Processor). The image data memory 131 may be a non-rewritable semiconductor memory, a rewritable semiconductor memory such as a flash memory, or a non-volatile recording medium such as a magnetic memory or an optical memory, for example. It is sufficient if it is configured using

  The VDP 130 has an image data processing function such as a high-speed drawing function and a moving image decoding function for displaying various images on the screen of the image display device 5, for example, in accordance with a display control command from the effect control CPU 120. It is an image processor that executes various types of image data processing such as matrix calculation (vector calculation). The image data memory 131 stores various image data (image element data) indicating the display image on the image display device 5 in advance. For example, the image data stored in the image data memory 131 includes a plurality of types of image element data corresponding to a plurality of types of effect images, such as a plurality of types of decorative symbols variably displayed on the image display device 5. The VRAM 132A temporarily stores image element data read from the image data memory 131, and provides a work area for the VDP 130 to execute image data processing. In the frame buffer 132B, the display data of the effect image created by the drawing process by the VDP 130 is developed and stored (drawn). The VRAM 132A and the frame buffer 132B may be secured as separate storage areas in the same semiconductor memory (SDRAM or the like), or may be configured using separate semiconductor memories.

  A stencil buffer is provided in a predetermined area of the VRAM 132A. The stencil buffer stores mask information corresponding to the positions of pixels (pixels) constituting the display area of the image display device 5. The mask information includes a predetermined off value (for example, “0”) and an on value (for example, “1”). If the mask information is an off value, rendering of the corresponding pixel is disabled (prohibited), and the display target image is restricted from being displayed. If the mask information is an on value, the corresponding pixel can be rendered (allowed) and the display target image is displayed in an opaque or translucent manner. In this way, an effective display area is formed by pixels whose mask information has an on value, and an image portion included in the effective display area in the display target image can be effectively displayed. On the other hand, a mask area is formed by pixels whose mask information has an off value, and an image portion that is not included in the mask area in the display target image can be effectively displayed. The mask area is an example of the visibility changing area because the display target image is not displayed and the visibility of the display target image is different from that of the effective display area.

  The image data memory 131 stores mask setting data indicating a mask pattern. The mask pattern indicates a pattern of mask information set in the stencil buffer, and is used to set an effective display area having a predetermined shape. The image data memory 131 stores alpha channel setting data for setting the alpha channel of the stencil layer. The alpha channel of the stencil layer is applied to the transparency of the display target image included in the effective display area set by the mask pattern. For example, in the pixel having the alpha value of “1”, the display target image is displayed opaque. On the other hand, in the pixel whose alpha value is greater than “0” and less than “1”, the display target image is displayed translucently. Thus, in the effective display area, the visibility of the display target image is improved as the alpha value is larger than “0” and approaches “1”. If the alpha value is “1”, the visibility of the display target image is increased. Highest. Thus, the image portion of the display target image not included in the mask area can be displayed with improved visibility according to the alpha channel of the stencil layer.

  The VDP 130 reads display data from the frame buffer 132 </ b> B, creates gradation data (color signal data) of each pixel constituting the display area of the image display device 5, and outputs it to the LCD drive circuit 133. The LCD driving circuit 133 generates a color signal corresponding to the gradation data (color signal data) supplied from the VDP 130, generates a scanning signal based on a predetermined clock signal, and outputs the scanning signal to the image display device 5. This is a circuit for displaying various images in the display area of the image display device 5 by, for example.

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

  In the pachinko gaming machine 1, a predetermined game using a game ball as a game medium is performed, and a predetermined game value can be given based on the game result. As an example of a game using a game ball, a predetermined hitting ball is emitted based on a predetermined operation (for example, a rotation operation) performed by a player on a hitting operation handle installed on the lower right side of the front surface of the housing of the pachinko gaming machine 1 A game ball as a game medium is launched toward a game area by a launch motor provided in the apparatus. When this game ball passes (enters) the first start winning opening formed in the normal winning ball apparatus 6A, the first is based on the fact that the game ball is detected by the first start opening switch 22A shown in FIG. The start condition is met. Thereafter, the first start condition is established based on, for example, the end of the previous special game or the big hit gaming state. In this way, the special figure game using the first special figure by the first special symbol display device 4A is started.

  Further, when the game ball passes (enters) the second start winning opening formed in the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B, the game ball is detected by the second start opening switch 22B shown in FIG. Based on the fact that the game ball is detected by the second start port switch 22B, the second start condition is satisfied. Thereafter, the second start condition is satisfied based on, for example, the end of the last special game or the big hit gaming state. In this way, the special figure game using the second special figure by the second special symbol display device 4B is executed. When the normally variable winning ball apparatus 6B is in the normally open state as the second variable display, it is difficult or impossible for the game ball to pass through the second starting winning opening.

  Based on the fact that the game ball that has passed through the passage gate 41 is detected by the gate switch 21 shown in FIG. 2, the normal symbol starting condition for executing the variable symbol display on the normal symbol display 20 is established. Thereafter, the normal symbol game 20 is started by the normal symbol display 20 based on the fact that the normal symbol start condition for starting variable symbol normal display such as the end of the previous normal symbol game has been completed. In this ordinary game, when a predetermined time elapses after starting the change of the normal symbol, the fixed normal symbol that is the variable display result of the normal symbol is stopped and displayed (derived display). At this time, if a specific normal symbol (a symbol per ordinary symbol) is stopped and displayed as the fixed ordinary symbol, the variable symbol display result of the ordinary symbol becomes “per ordinary symbol”. On the other hand, if a normal symbol other than the symbols per regular symbol is stopped and displayed as the fixed regular symbol, the variable symbol display result of the regular symbol becomes “ordinary symbol losing”. Corresponding to the fact that the variable symbol display result of the normal symbol is “per standard”, the opening control and the expansion opening control are performed in which the movable wing piece of the electric tulip constituting the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B is tilted. When a predetermined time elapses, closing control or normal opening control for returning to the vertical position is performed.

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

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

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

  When the variable display result of the special symbol in the special game is “big hit”, a fixed decorative symbol that is a predetermined big hit combination is derived and displayed in the display area of the image display device 5. As an example, a combination of big hits is confirmed by stopping and displaying the same decorative symbols on predetermined effective lines in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R. It is only necessary that the decorative design is derived and displayed.

  In the big hit gaming state, the special winning opening is in an open state, and the special variable winning ball apparatus 7 is in a first state advantageous to the player. Then, in a predetermined period (for example, 29.5 seconds) or a period until a predetermined number (for example, 10) of game balls enter the grand prize opening and a winning ball is generated, the grand prize opening is continuously opened. The round game (also simply referred to as “round”) is executed. During periods other than the execution period of such round games, the big prize opening is closed, and it is difficult or impossible to generate a winning ball. When a game ball enters the big prize opening, the prize winning ball is detected by the big prize opening switch 23, and a predetermined number (for example, 15) of game balls are paid out as a prize ball for each detection. The round game in the big hit game state is repeatedly executed until a predetermined upper limit number of times (for example, “16”) is reached. Therefore, in the big hit gaming state, the player can acquire a large number of prize balls very easily, and the gaming state is advantageous to the player. Note that the pachinko gaming machine 1 may be one that directly pays out game balls that are prize balls, or may be one that gives a score corresponding to the number of game balls that are prize balls.

  After the big hit gaming state is finished, the probability that the variable display result will be “big hit” (hit probability) is controlled to be a positive change state that is higher than the normal state based on the fact that the predetermined probability change control condition is satisfied. There is. In the probability change state, a predetermined probability change end condition is satisfied, for example, a variable display is executed a predetermined number of times (for example, 200 times) or a big hit gaming state is started before the variable display is executed a predetermined number of times. It is controlled to continue until The probability variation end condition may be satisfied when the next big hit gaming state is started regardless of the number of executions of variable display. After the big hit gaming state is ended, the average variable display time may be controlled to the short state when it becomes shorter than the normal state. In the short-time state, a predetermined short-time end condition is satisfied, for example, the variable display is executed a predetermined number of times (for example, 100 times), or the big hit gaming state is started before the variable display execution number reaches the predetermined number of times. It is controlled to continue until

  In the probable change state and the short time state, the normally variable winning ball apparatus 6B is in the first variable state (open state or expanded open state) in an advantageous change mode in which the game ball easily passes (enters) through the second start winning opening than in the normal state. And a second variable state (closed state or normally open state). For example, the normal symbol display unit 20 controls the normal symbol change time (normal diagram change time) in the normal symbol game to be shorter than that in the normal state, or the variable symbol display result of the normal symbol in each normal symbol game is “general”. Tilt control time for controlling the tilt of the movable blade piece in the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B based on the fact that the probability of “per figure” is higher than that in the normal state, and the variable display result is “per figure”. By making the control longer than that in the normal state and increasing the number of tilts more than in the normal state, the normally variable winning ball apparatus 6B is changed to the first variable state and the second variable state in an advantageous change mode. Just do it. Note that any one of these controls may be performed, or a plurality of controls may be performed in combination. In this way, the control for changing the normally variable winning ball apparatus 6B between the first variable state and the second variable state in an advantageous change mode is referred to as high opening control (also referred to as “high base control”). By controlling to such a probable change state and a short time state, the time required until the next variable display result becomes “big hit” is shortened, and a special game state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal state is obtained. Even when the probability variation control is performed in the probability variation state, the high opening control may not be performed.

  In the image display device 5, the decorative symbol other than the symbol that becomes the final stop symbol (for example, the middle symbol of the left symbol, the middle symbol, and the right symbol) is stopped in a state in which it matches the jackpot combination continuously for a predetermined time, A big hit can occur before the final result is displayed due to rocking, scaling, or deformation, or when multiple decorative symbols fluctuate synchronously with the same symbol, or the display position changes. An effect performed in a state where the sex is continued (hereinafter, these states are referred to as reach states) is referred to as reach effect. As a reach effect, a character image (effect image imitating a person or the like) different from the decorative design is displayed on the screen of the image display device 5, a display mode of the background image is changed, and a moving image different from the decorative design An effect operation different from changing the variation pattern of the decorative design, such as reproducing and displaying an image, may be executed. Not only the display operation in the image display device 5, but also the sound output operation by the speakers 8L and 8R, the lighting operation (flashing operation) in the light emitter such as the game effect lamp 9, and the like are different from the previous operation mode that becomes the reach mode. The operation mode may be included in the reach effect. The reach state and its state are referred to as reach mode. Furthermore, variable display including reach production is called reach variable display. And when the display result of the symbol variably displayed on the screen of the image display device 5 is not a big hit combination, it becomes “lost”, and the variability display state ends.

  As an effect operation in the reach effect, a plurality of types of effect patterns (also referred to as “reach patterns”) having different operation modes (effect modes) may be prepared in advance. Then, the possibility of being a “hit” (also referred to as “reliability” or “hit reliability”) varies depending on the production mode in each reach production. That is, it is possible to vary the possibility that the variable display result will be a “hit” depending on which of the multiple types of reach effects is executed. In this embodiment, as an example, reach effects such as normal, super A, and super B are preset. And, when the reach production of super reach such as Super A and Super B is executed, the variable display result may be “big hit” compared to the case where the normal reach production is executed (expected expectation of big hit) Becomes higher. In addition, among the reach effects of the super reach, when the specific reach effect such as the super B is executed, the big hit expectation is higher than when the reach effect of the super A is executed.

  During the variable display of decorative designs, different from the reach production, for example, the display of a predetermined production image, or the presentation operation different from the variable display operation of the decorative design, such as image display or voice output as a message , There is a possibility that the variable display state of decorative symbols may reach a reach state, there is a possibility that a reach effect will be executed by super reach, and that the variable display result may be a "big hit", etc. May be executed in advance to notify the player in advance.

  The effect operation as the notice effect is the variable display mode of the decorative symbols after the decorative symbol variable display is started in all of the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R. It is only necessary to be executed (started) prior to the reach mode (before the decorative symbols are temporarily stopped and displayed in the “left” and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L and 5R). In addition, the notice effect that suggests that the variable display result may be a “big hit” may include one that is executed after the variable display mode of the decorative symbol has reached the reach mode. In this way, the notice effect can be a big hit gaming state at a predetermined timing from the start of variable display of special symbols and decorative symbols until the fixed special symbols and fixed decorative symbols that result in variable display are derived. Anything that can give notice (suggestion) of sex is acceptable. A plurality of notice effect patterns are prepared in advance corresponding to the contents of the effect operation (effect mode) when such a notice effect is executed.

  In this embodiment, as an example of the notice effect, the effective display area of the image in the image display device 5 is changed based on the result of detecting the push operation of the push button 31B by the player, and the effective display of the specific image is displayed. The image portion included in the area is displayed. At this time, the input effect lamp 9A is turned on in a different lighting mode according to the change in the effective display area. The ratio at which the variable display result is “big hit” varies depending on the size of the effective display area.

  When the variable display result of the special symbol in the special game is “lost”, the variable display mode is “non-reach” (also referred to as “normal loss”), and the variable display mode is “reach” (“ It is also referred to as “reach lose”. When the variable display mode is “non-reach”, the variable display state of the decorative pattern is not reached after the variable display of the decorative pattern is started, and the combination of the predetermined decorative pattern that does not reach (non-reach) Combination) is stopped (derived). When the variable display mode is “reach”, the reach display is executed after the variable display state of the decorative design becomes the reach state after the variable display of the decorative design is started, and finally the jackpot combination is not achieved. A predetermined decorative symbol combination (reach combination) is stopped (derived). The non-reach combination and the decorative symbols constituting the reach combination are included in the non-specific display result together with the special symbol that becomes the lost symbol.

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

In the main board 11, when power supply from a predetermined power supply board is started, the game control microcomputer 100 is activated, and the CPU 103 executes a predetermined process as a game control main process. When the game control main process is started, the CPU 103 performs necessary initial settings after setting the interrupt disabled. In this initial setting, for example, RAM 10 2 is cleared. Also, register setting of a CTC (counter / timer circuit) built in the game control microcomputer 100 is performed. Thereby, thereafter, an interrupt request signal is sent from the CTC to the CPU 103 every predetermined time (for example, 2 milliseconds), and the CPU 103 can periodically execute timer interrupt processing. When the initial setting is completed, an interrupt is permitted and then loop processing is started. In the game control main process, a process for returning the internal state of the pachinko gaming machine 1 to the state at the time of the previous power supply stop may be executed before entering the loop process.

  When the CPU 103 that has executed such a game control main process receives an interrupt request signal from the CTC and receives an interrupt request, the CPU 103 sets the interrupt disabled state and executes a predetermined game control timer interrupt process. The game control timer interrupt processing includes, for example, switch processing, main-side error processing, information output processing, gaming random number update processing, special symbol process processing, normal symbol process processing, command control processing, and the like in the pachinko gaming machine 1 Processing for controlling the progress of the process is included.

  The switch processing is processing for determining the state of detection signals input from various switches such as the gate switch 21, the first start port switch 22 </ b> A, the second start port switch 22 </ b> B, and the count switch 23 via the switch circuit 110. The main-side error process is a process of performing an abnormality diagnosis of the pachinko gaming machine 1 and generating a warning if necessary according to the diagnosis result. The information output process is a process for outputting data such as jackpot information, start-up information, probability variation information supplied to a hall management computer installed outside the pachinko gaming machine 1, for example. The game random number update process is a process for updating at least a part of a plurality of types of game random numbers used on the main board 11 side by software.

In the special symbol process included in the game control timer interrupt processing, the value of the special symbol process flag provided in the RAM 102 is updated according to the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1, and the first special symbol display device 4A. In addition, various processes are selected and executed in order to perform control of display operation in the second special symbol display device 4B and setting of opening / closing operation of the big prize opening in the special variable winning ball device 7 in a predetermined procedure. . The normal symbol process process controls the display operation (for example, turning on / off the segment LED) on the normal symbol display 20 to variably display the normal symbol, set the tilting operation of the movable wing piece in the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B, and the like. It is a process that enables.

  The command control process is a process of transmitting a control command from the main board 11 to a sub-side control board such as the effect control board 12. As an example, in the command control process, the output control board 12 among the output ports included in the I / O 105 corresponds to the setting in the command transmission table specified by the value of the transmission command buffer provided in the RAM 102. After setting the control data in the output port for transmitting the effect control command, the predetermined control data is set in the output port of the effect control INT signal, and the effect control INT signal is turned on for a predetermined time and then turned off. Thus, it is possible to transmit the effect control command based on the setting in the command transmission table. After executing the command control process, after setting the interrupt enabled state, the game control timer interrupt process is terminated.

  FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the special symbol process. In the special symbol process shown in FIG. 4, the CPU 103 of the game control microcomputer 100 first determines whether or not a start winning has occurred (step S11). As an example, in step S11, an input state (on / off) of a start winning signal as a detection signal transmitted from the first start port switch 22A or the second start port switch 22B is checked. What is necessary is just to determine with winning.

  If a start winning is generated in step S11 (step S11; Yes), a winning random number is stored (step S12). As an example, in the process of step S12, a random number circuit 104 built in (or externally attached to) the game control microcomputer 100, a random counter provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 102 in the game control microcomputer 100, or a game control microcomputer A gaming random number (random number for determining a variable display result, gaming state determining random number, etc.) updated by at least a part of a random counter configured using an internal register provided separately from the RAM 102 in the computer 100 A part or all of the numerical data indicating the random number and the random number for determining the variation pattern) is extracted. The random number value extracted at this time may be stored as hold data associated with the hold number, for example, in a hold random number storage unit provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 102 in the game control microcomputer 100.

  Subsequent to the processing in step S12, various control commands corresponding to the start winning prize are transmitted (step S13). As an example, in the process of step S <b> 13, it is only necessary to perform a setting for transmitting a start winning designation command for notifying the occurrence of a start winning to the effect control board 12. Further, based on the random value for determining the variable display result and the random value for determining the variation pattern extracted by the process of step S12, it is determined whether the variable display result is determined as “big hit”, for example, super A determination may be made as to whether or not a specific variation pattern with a specific reach effect, such as a reach effect of a super reach such as A or Super B, is determined. In this case, a symbol designation command that can specify the determination result of whether or not the variable display result is determined to be “big hit”, or a winning determination that can specify the determination result of whether or not the variable display result is determined to be a specific variation pattern Settings for transmitting the result designation command from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12 may be performed.

  When the start winning is not generated in step S11 (step S11; No), after executing the process of step S13, the value of the special figure process flag is determined (step S21). Then, a process corresponding to the determination value is selected from a plurality of processes previously described in the game control computer program and executed.

  For example, when the value of the special figure process flag is “0”, it is determined whether or not the variable display (variable display game) of the symbol can be started (step S101). As an example, in the process of step S101, it is determined whether or not the number of holds of the variable display game is “0” by checking the stored contents of the random number storage unit for holding. At this time, if the number of hold is other than “0”, the variable display is started because the start of the variable display has been satisfied and the variable display has not been started yet. Determine that it is possible. On the other hand, when the hold number is “0”, it is determined that variable display cannot be started.

  When variable display cannot be started in step S101 (step S101; No), the special symbol process is terminated. On the other hand, when variable display can be started (step S101; Yes), a fixed symbol derived and displayed as a variable display result is determined (step S102). At this time, the random number for game (random number for variable display result determination, random number for game state determination, random pattern determination for variation pattern) stored at the head (storage area with the minimum hold number) in the random number storage unit for hold Read random number value). The game random number read from the holding random value storage unit may be temporarily stored in a variable display random number buffer or the like provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 102 in the game control microcomputer 100. Then, using a random value for determining the variable display result and the variable display result determination table, it is determined at a predetermined ratio whether or not the variable display result is “big hit”. Here, when the gaming state in the pachinko gaming machine 1 is a probable variation state, the variable display result determination table is determined so that the variable display result is determined to be “big hit” at a higher rate than in the normal state or the short time state. It is sufficient that the determination value is set.

  When the variable display result is determined to be “big hit” in the process of step S102, the gaming state after the end of the big hit gaming state is further changed using the random number value for gaming state determination and the gaming state determination table. Decide whether or not to enter the special gaming state. Corresponding to these determination results, a fixed symbol derived and displayed as a variable display result may be determined.

  Following the processing in step S102, an internal flag and the like are set (step S103). As an example, in the process of step S103, when the variable display result is determined as “big hit” in the process of step S102, the big hit flag provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 102 in the game control microcomputer 100 is turned on. set. Further, when it is determined that the gaming state after the end of the big hit gaming state is to be a probability variation state, a probability variation confirmation flag provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 102 in the game control microcomputer 100 is set to an on state. In addition, it may be stored in such a way that it can be specified that the state is likely to change. Thereafter, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to “1” (step S104), and the special symbol process processing is terminated.

  When the value of the special figure process flag is “1”, a variation pattern or the like is determined (step S111). FIG. 5 shows a setting example of a variation pattern used in the pachinko gaming machine 1. Each variation pattern indicates that the required time (variable display time) from the start of variable display to the display of a fixed symbol that is a variable display result can be specified and the outline of the production mode can be specified. In this embodiment, among the cases where the variable display result is “losing”, the variable display mode of the decorative symbols variably displayed on the image display device 5 is “non-reach” and “reach”. A plurality of variation patterns are prepared in advance corresponding to each case and when the variable display result is “big hit”. For the variation pattern, a plurality of patterns are prepared in advance for each variation time (variable display time) in the variable display of the special figure game or the decorative design. Therefore, by determining the variation pattern, it is possible to determine the variable display time for special symbols and decorative symbols.

  In the process of step S111, the variation pattern to be used is determined at a predetermined rate using the variation pattern determination random value temporarily stored in the variable display random number buffer and the variation pattern determination table. At this time, the variable display result may become “big hit” corresponding to each fluctuation pattern by changing the determination ratio of each fluctuation pattern depending on whether or not the variable display result is decided as “big hit” (Big hit reliability) can be varied. For example, it is possible to vary the possibility that the variable display result will be a “big hit” depending on which of a plurality of types of reach effects is executed. In the example shown in FIG. 4, a plurality of types of reach effects such as normal, super A, and super B are preset. And, when a super-reach reach effect such as Super A or Super B is executed, the variable display result may be a “big hit” compared to the case where a normal reach effect is executed (hit reliability) It is sufficient that the variation pattern determination table is set so that the value becomes high.

  Further, in the process of step S111, it may be determined whether or not the variable display state of the decorative symbol is set to “reach” by determining a variation pattern when the variable display result is determined to be “losing”. . Alternatively, prior to determining the variation pattern, it may be determined whether or not the variable display state of the decorative symbol is set to “reach” by using the reach determination random number value and the reach determination table. That is, in the process of step S111, it is only necessary to determine the variation pattern as one of a plurality of types based on the variable display result and the determination result of reach.

  Subsequent to the process of step S111, various control commands corresponding to the start of variable display are transmitted (step S112). As an example, in the process of step S112, as a variable display start command for specifying the start of variable display, a variable display result notification command for notifying a variable display result, a change pattern specifying command for specifying a change pattern, or the like is transmitted. It is only necessary to be set. Further, in response to the decrease in the hold count due to the start of variable display, a setting for transmitting a hold count notification command for notifying the hold count after the decrease may be performed.

  The variable display time is set in response to the change pattern being determined by the process of step S112. Moreover, the setting for starting the variable display of the special symbol by either the first special symbol display device 4A or the second special symbol display device 4B may be performed. As an example, variable display of symbols may be started by transmitting a predetermined drive signal to either the first special symbol display device 4A or the second special symbol display device 4B. Which special symbol display device using the special symbol on which special symbol display device is to be executed is a special symbol game based on whether the game ball has passed through the first starting winning port or the second starting winning port It may be set accordingly. More specifically, a special game is played by the first special symbol display device 4A based on the fact that the game ball has passed through the first start winning opening. On the other hand, based on the fact that the game ball has passed through the second start winning opening, a special game by the second special symbol display device 4B is performed. Thereafter, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to “2” (step S113), and the special symbol process processing is terminated.

  When the value of the special figure process flag is “2”, it is determined whether or not the variable display time has elapsed (step S121). When the variable display time has not elapsed (step S121; No), the special symbol variable display control is performed (step S122), and then the special symbol process is terminated. On the other hand, when the variable display time has elapsed (step S121; Yes), the variable symbol special display is stopped, and the final symbol is controlled to be derived and displayed (step S123).

  Subsequent to the processing in step S123, various control commands corresponding to the end of variable display are transmitted (step S124). As an example, in the process of step S124, a variable display end command for instructing the end (stop) of variable display or a big hit start specifying command (fanfare command for specifying the start of a big hit gaming state when the variable display result is “big hit”. ) And the like may be set for transmission.

  After the process of step S124 is executed, it is determined whether or not the variable display result is “big hit” (step S125). If the variable display result is “big hit” (step S125; Yes), the special symbol process flag value is updated to “3” (step S126), and the special symbol process processing is terminated. On the other hand, when the variable display result is “lost” instead of “big hit” (step S125; No), the special figure process flag is cleared and its value is initialized to “0” ( Step S127), the special symbol process is terminated. When the process of step S127 is executed, it is determined whether or not the probability variation state or the time saving state is to be ended, and when it is determined that the predetermined condition is to be ended, these gaming states are ended. Settings for controlling to a normal state may be performed.

  When the value of the special figure process flag is “3”, it is determined whether or not to end the big hit gaming state depending on whether or not a predetermined big hit end condition is satisfied (step S131). The jackpot end condition may be, for example, that all rounds executed in the jackpot gaming state have ended. When the big hit game state is not ended (step S131; No), the game operation control at the time of the big hit is performed (step 132), and the game control process is ended. On the other hand, when ending the big hit gaming state (step S131; Yes), the setting for controlling the gaming state after the big hit ending is performed (step S133).

  As an example, in the process of step S133, it is determined whether or not the probability variation confirmation flag is on. If it is on, the probability variation flag provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 102 in the game control microcomputer 100 is turned on. Set to. Thus, when it is determined that the variable display result is “big hit”, and it is decided that the gaming state after the end of the big hit gaming state is to be a probable change state, a game corresponding to this decision result is made. It is possible to control the state to a certain change state. Even in the case of controlling to the short time state, a setting corresponding to this may be performed. Thereafter, the special symbol process flag is cleared and its value is initialized to “0” (step S134), and then the special symbol process is terminated.

  Next, the operation in the effect control board 12 will be described. The effect control board 12 is supplied with a power supply voltage from a power supply board or the like. In the effect control CPU 120 in which the power supply for activation is started, a predetermined effect control main process is executed. When the production control main process is started, the production control CPU 120 first executes a predetermined startup process. Thereafter, it is determined whether or not the timer interrupt flag is on. The timer interrupt flag is set to the ON state every time a predetermined time (for example, 2 milliseconds) elapses based on, for example, the CTC register setting. Such an interrupt for turning on the timer interrupt flag is a timer interrupt for effect control. The effect control CPU 120 waits until an effect control timer interrupt occurs.

  When a timer interrupt for effect control occurs and the timer interrupt flag is turned on, the timer interrupt flag is cleared and turned off, and a timer interrupt process for effect control is executed. In addition to the timer control process for effect control, the CPU 120 for effect control can execute an interrupt process for receiving a command, and can receive an effect control command transmitted from the main board 11 via the relay board 15. It only needs to be received. In the timer control process for effect control, the effect control CPU 120 executes command analysis processing. In the command analysis processing, it is determined whether or not an effect control command has been received. If there is a reception, setting or control corresponding to the received command is performed. After executing the command analysis process, the effect control process is executed. In the effect control process, for example, an effect image display operation on the screen of the image display device 5, an audio output operation from the speakers 8L and 8R, a lighting operation in a decorative light emitter (light emitting member) such as a game effect lamp 9 and a decorative LED. The operation control contents using various effect devices such as the drive operation of the effect movable member are determined, determined, and set according to the effect control command transmitted from the main board 11. Following the effect control process, an effect random number update process is executed, and numerical data indicating effect random numbers counted as various random values used for effect control is updated by software.

  FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the effect control process. In the effect control process shown in FIG. 6, the effect control CPU 120 determines the value of the effect process flag stored in a predetermined area or the like of the RAM 122, and from a plurality of processes described in advance in the effect control computer program, A process corresponding to the judgment value is selected and executed. The processing executed according to the determination value of the effect process flag includes the processing of steps S170 to S176.

  The variable display start waiting process in step S170 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “0”. The variable display start waiting process performs variable display of decorative symbols on the screen of the image display device 5 based on whether the first variation start command or the second variation start command transmitted from the main board 11 is received. It includes a process for determining whether or not to start. The first variation start command is an effect control command for notifying that the special figure game using the first special figure by the first special symbol display device 4A is started. The second variation start command is an effect control command for notifying that the special figure game using the second special figure by the second special symbol display device 4B is started. When either the first change start command or the second change start command is received, the value of the effect process flag is updated to “1”.

  The variable display start setting process in step S171 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “1”. This variable display start setting process is performed on the screen of the image display device 5 in response to the start of variable display of special symbols in the special symbol game by the first special symbol display device 4A or the second special symbol display device 4B. In order to perform the variable display of decorative symbols and other various effects, the process of determining the fixed decorative symbols and various effect control patterns according to the variation pattern of the special symbols and the type of display result is included. . When the variable display start setting process is executed, the value of the effect process flag is updated to “2”.

  The variable display effect process in step S172 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “2”. In the effect processing during variable display, the effect control CPU 120 performs various control data from the effect control pattern corresponding to the timer value in the effect control process timer provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 122 (such as an effect control timer setting unit). , And various kinds of effect control during the variable display of the decorative symbols are included. In addition, in the variable display effect processing, in response to the reception of the symbol confirmation command transmitted from the main board 11, the finalized symbol as the final stop symbol resulting in the variable symbol variable display result is displayed as a complete stop. Processing to display (derived display) is included. Note that, in response to the end code being read from the predetermined effect control pattern, the finalized decorative symbol may be displayed in a complete stop (derived display). In this case, when the variable display time corresponding to the variation pattern designated by the variation pattern designation command has elapsed, it is autonomous on the side of the production control board 12 without using the production control command from the main board 11. The fixed display pattern can be derived and displayed on the screen to determine the variable display result. After performing such effect control, the value of the effect process flag is updated to “3”.

  The variable display stop process in step S173 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “3”. In the variable display stop process, the jackpot gaming state starts based on the variable display result notified by the variable display result notification command, the determination result of whether or not the jackpot start designation command transmitted from the main board 11 is received, and the like. The process which determines whether it is performed is included. When the variable display result corresponds to “big hit” and the big hit gaming state is started, the value of the production process flag is updated to “4”, while the variable display result corresponds to “lost”. If the big hit gaming state is not started, the effect process flag is cleared and its value is initialized to “0”.

  The jackpot display process of step S174 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “4”. This jackpot display process includes a process for executing a jackpot notification effect (fanfare effect) for notifying the start of the jackpot gaming state based on the reception of the jackpot start designation command transmitted from the main board 11 or the like. Yes. When the execution of the big hit notification effect ends, the value of the effect process flag is updated to “5”.

The big hit effect process in step S175 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “5”. In the jackpot effect processing, the effect control CPU 120 sets, for example, an effect control pattern corresponding to the effect contents in the jackpot effect that is executed when the game is in the jackpot game state, and displays an effect image based on the set contents. Displaying on the screen of the display device 5, outputting sound and sound effects from the speakers 8 </ b> L and 8 </ b> R by outputting commands (sound effect signals) to the sound control board 13, and commands (lighting signals) to the lamp control board 14 ) To turn on / off / blink the game effect lamp 9 and the decoration LED, and execute other effect control, thereby making it possible to execute a big hit effect corresponding to the big hit game state. In our presentation processing big hit, for example, in response to such that having received the jackpot termination specifying command transmitted from the main board 11, the value of Starring depletion Rosesufuragu is updated to "6".

  The big hit end effect process in step S176 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “6”. In this jackpot end effect process, the effect control CPU 120 sets, for example, an effect control pattern corresponding to the effect content in the jackpot end effect (ending effect) executed when the jackpot game state ends, and the setting contents The effect image based on the image display device 5 is displayed on the screen, the sound (sound effect signal) is output to the sound control board 13, the sound and sound effects are output from the speakers 8 </ b> L and 8 </ b> R, The game effect lamp 9 and the decoration LED are turned on / off / flashed by the output of the command (electric decoration signal), and other effect control can be executed to execute the jackpot end effect corresponding to the end of the jackpot game state To do. Thereafter, the effect process flag is cleared and its value is initialized to “0”.

  FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the variable display start setting process executed in step S171 of FIG. In the variable display start setting process shown in FIG. 7, the effect control CPU 120 first determines a final stop symbol or the like to be a finalized symbol as a variable symbol display result (step S211). As the processing in step S211, the effect control CPU 120 is based on variable display contents such as the variation pattern indicated by the variation pattern designation command transmitted from the main board 11 and the variable display result indicated by the variable display result notification command. To determine the final stop symbol. As an example, the variable display contents according to the combination of the fluctuation pattern and variable display result include “non-reach (loss)”, “reach (loss)”, “non-probability change (big hit)”, and “probability change (big hit)”. is there. When the variable display content is “non-probable change (big hit)” and “probable change (big hit)”, the variable display content is included in the case of “big hit”.

  When the variable display content is “non-reach (losing)”, the variable display state of the decorative symbol is not changed to the reach state, the fixed decorative symbol of the non-reach combination is stopped and displayed, and the variable display result is “lost”. " When the variable display content is “reach (losing)”, after the variable display state of the decorative symbol becomes the reach state, the fixed decorative symbol of the reach lose combination is stopped and displayed, and the variable display result becomes “losing”. . When the variable display content is “non-probable change (big hit)”, the variable display result is “big hit”, and the gaming state after the end of the big hit gaming state is the short-time state. When the variable display content is “probable change (big hit)”, the variable display result is “big win”, and the gaming state after the big hit gaming state is changed to the probable state.

  When the variable display content is “non-reach (losing)”, the production control CPU 120 uses the “left” and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5R to display different (unmatched) decorative symbols as the final stop symbols. To decide. The effect control CPU 120 extracts numerical data indicating a random number value for determining the left determined symbol updated by an effect random counter or the like provided in a predetermined area (such as an effect control counter setting unit) of the random number circuit 124 or the RAM 122. Referring to the left determined symbol determination table stored and prepared in advance in the ROM 121, the left that is stopped and displayed in the “left” decorative symbol display area 5L on the screen of the image display device 5 among the determined decorative symbols. Determine the final decorative pattern. Next, numerical value data indicating a random number value for determining the right determined symbol updated by the random number circuit 124 or the effect random counter is extracted, and the right determined symbol determining table prepared in advance stored in the ROM 121 is referred to. For example, the right determined decorative symbol to be stopped and displayed in the “right” decorative symbol display area 5R on the screen of the image display device 5 is determined. At this time, the symbol number of the right determined decorative symbol may be determined so as to be different from the symbol number of the left determined decorative symbol by setting in the right determined symbol determining table or the like. Subsequently, the numerical data indicating the random number value for determining the medium fixed symbol updated by the random number circuit 124 or the production random counter is extracted, and the medium fixed symbol determination table prepared in advance stored in the ROM 121 is referred to. From the determined decorative symbols, the medium fixed decorative symbol to be stopped and displayed in the “medium” decorative symbol display area 5C on the screen of the image display device 5 is determined.

  When the variable display content is “reach”, the effect control CPU 120 displays the same (matching) decorative symbols in the “left” and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L and 5R as the final stop symbols. To decide. The effect control CPU 120 extracts numerical data indicating random values for determining the left and right determined symbols that are updated by the random number circuit 124 or the effect random counter, and stores the left and right determined symbol determination table that is stored in advance in the ROM 121 and prepared. By referencing or the like, among the confirmed decorative symbols, decorative symbols having the same symbol number that are stopped and displayed in the “left” and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L and 5R on the screen of the image display device 5 are displayed. decide. Further, numerical data indicating a random number value for determining a medium fixed symbol updated by the random number circuit 124 or a random counter for production is extracted, and a medium fixed symbol determination table stored and prepared in advance in the ROM 121 is referred to. As a result, the medium fixed decorative symbol that is stopped and displayed in the “medium” decorative symbol display area 5C on the screen of the image display device 5 is determined among the fixed decorative symbols. Here, for example, when the confirmed decorative symbol is a jackpot combination, such as when the symbol number of the middle confirmed decorative symbol is the same as the symbol number of the left confirmed decorative symbol and the right confirmed decorative symbol, an arbitrary value (For example, “1”) may be added to or subtracted from the symbol number of the medium-decorated decorative symbol so that the finalized decorative symbol is not the jackpot combination but the reach combination. Alternatively, when determining the medium-decorated decorative symbol, the difference (design difference) between the symbol number of the left confirmed decorative symbol and the right confirmed decorative symbol may be determined, and the medium-decorated decorative symbol corresponding to the symbol difference may be set. .

  When the variable display content is “non-probability change (big hit)” or “probability change (big hit)”, the effect control CPU 120 displays the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R. The same (matching) decorative symbol is determined as the final stop symbol. The effect control CPU 120 extracts numerical data indicating a random value for determining the jackpot determined symbol updated by the random number circuit 124 or the effect random counter. Subsequently, by referring to the jackpot determined symbol determination table stored and prepared in advance in the ROM 121, the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L on the screen of the image display device 5, etc. A decorative symbol having the same symbol number that is stopped and displayed along with 5C and 5R is determined. At this time, depending on whether the variable display content is “non-probability change (big hit)” or “probability change (big hit)”, whether or not the promotion effect during the big hit is executed, etc. It is only necessary to determine which one of the design symbol to be displayed and the probability variation symbol (for example, a design symbol that represents an odd number) is the final design symbol. In the jackpot promotion promotion, the combination of decorative symbols (non-probable variation jackpot combination) that recalls a big hit in the image display device 5 but does not recall a probable change state (non-probable big hit combination) is once stopped and displayed in the big hit gaming state or the big hit gaming state. This is an effect of notifying whether or not the state is surely changed at the end of.

  As a specific example, when the variable display content is “non-probable change (big hit)”, a symbol to be a definite decorative symbol is determined from a plurality of types of normal symbols. Further, when the variable display content is “probability change (big hit)” and it is determined not to execute the jackpot promotion effect, the one that becomes the confirmed decorative design is determined from a plurality of types of probability change designs. On the other hand, when the variable display content is “probable change (big hit)”, when it is decided to execute the promotion effect during the big hit, the one that becomes the confirmed decorative symbol is determined from a plurality of types of normal symbols. Accordingly, it is only necessary to prevent the promotion effect during the big hit from being executed despite the fact that the probability variation symbols are all derived and displayed as the confirmed decorative symbols, so that the player is not distrusted.

  In the process of step S211, it is determined whether or not to execute a probability change promotion effect such as a re-lottery effect or a jackpot promotion effect when the variable display content is “non-probability change (big hit)” or “probability change (big hit)”. May be. In the redrawing effect, once the decorative symbol of the non-probable variable big hit combination consisting of the same normal symbol is displayed during variable display of the decorative symbol, it is once difficult to recognize or impossible to recognize that it is controlled to the probabilistic state, It is possible to notify that the control is changed to the probability variation state by variably displaying (revariing) the decoration symbol again and stopping and displaying the decorative symbol of the probability variation big hit combination composed of the same probability variation symbol. Note that there is a case in which the control of the probability variation state is not notified when the decoration symbol of the non-probable variation big hit combination is stopped and displayed after the decoration symbol is re-variable in the re-lottery effect. If it is determined that the re-lottery effect is to be executed in the process of step S211, a combination of decorative symbols to be temporarily stopped before the re-lottery effect is executed may be determined.

  Following the determination of the final stop symbol or the like in the process of step S211, the presence / absence of execution of the notice effect indicating whether to execute the notice effect is determined (step S212). As an example, in the process of step S212, a notice effect execution determination table prepared in advance is selected and set as a use table for determining the presence or absence of the notice effect execution. In the notice effect execution determination table, the numerical value (decision value) to be compared with the random value for determining the notice effect execution according to the variable display content or the like is a determination result of “no execution” corresponding to the case where the notice effect is not executed. Alternatively, it is only necessary to be assigned to the determination result “executed” corresponding to the case where the notice effect is executed. The effect control CPU 120 refers to the notice effect execution determination table based on the numerical data indicating the random number value for determining the notice effect execution extracted from the random number circuit 124 or the effect random counter, for example, to thereby execute the notice effect execution. The presence or absence may be determined.

  FIG. 8A shows an example of determining whether or not to perform a notice effect in the process of step S212. In this determination example, depending on whether the variable display content specified based on the variable display result notification command or the variation pattern designation command is “non-reach (lack)”, “reach (lack)”, or “big hit” Thus, the ratio at which the presence / absence of the notice effect is determined is varied. More specifically, when the variable display content is “big hit”, the notice effect is executed at a higher rate than when the variable display content is “non-reach (losing)” or “reach (losing)”. It is determined to “execute” corresponding to the case. Therefore, when the notice effect is executed, the variable display result becomes “big hit” at a higher rate than when the notice effect is not executed. That is, when the notice effect is executed, the expectation that the variable display result will be “big hit” is enhanced. In addition, when the variable display content is “reach (lack)”, “execution is performed” corresponding to the case where the notice effect is executed at a higher rate than when the variable display content is “non-reach (lack)”. Is determined. Therefore, when the notice effect is executed, the decorative symbol variable display state becomes a reach state at a higher rate than when the notice effect is not executed. That is, when the notice effect is executed, the expectation that the variable display state of the decorative symbols becomes the reach state is enhanced.

  Following the determination by the process of step S212 shown in FIG. 7, it is determined whether or not it is a determination result of “execution performed” for executing the notice effect (step S213). At this time, if the result of the determination is “execution performed” for executing the notice effect (step S213; Yes), a plurality of preliminarily prepared notice effect patterns corresponding to the effect mode (effect contents) of the notice effect are provided. Is determined at a predetermined rate (step S214). As an example, in the process of step S214, a previously prepared notice effect pattern determination table is selected and set as a use table for determining the notice effect pattern. In the notice effect pattern determination table, a numerical value (decision value) to be compared with the random value for determining the notice effect pattern may be assigned to the result of determining the notice effect pattern according to the variable display content. The effect control CPU 120 refers to the notice effect pattern determination table based on the numerical data indicating the random number value for the notice effect pattern determination extracted from the random number circuit 124 or the effect random counter, for example, so that the current variable display is performed. What is necessary is just to determine the notice effect pattern in.

  FIG. 8B shows an example of determining the notice effect pattern by the process of step S214. In this determination example, the rate at which the notice pattern is determined varies depending on whether the variable display content is “non-reach (lack)”, “reach (lack)”, or “big hit”. In this embodiment, the notice effect patterns SPA1 to SPA5 are prepared in advance as a plurality of notice effect patterns. In the example shown in FIG. 8B, when the announcement effect pattern SPA1 is determined, the possibility that the variable display result will be “big hit” is the lowest, the announcement effect pattern SPA2, the announcement effect pattern SPA3, and the announcement effect pattern SPA4. The variable display result is set so as to increase the possibility of “big hit”. The notice effect pattern SPA5 can be determined only when the variable display content is “big hit”, and is not determined when the variable display content is “non-reach (losing)” or “reach (losing)”. Is set. Therefore, when the notice effect is executed in the effect mode (effect contents) based on the notice effect pattern SPA5, it is determined that the variable display result is “big hit” and controlled to the big hit gaming state. In other words, the notice effect of the effect mode (effect contents) by the notice effect pattern SPA5 is a notice that definitely notifies that the game is controlled to the big hit game state and informs that a game value advantageous to the player is given. It will be (big hit confirmed production).

  FIG. 8C shows a specific example of the preview image display content that is the content of the effect set for each preview effect pattern. In this specific example, depending on the determination result of the notice effect pattern, the effect mode (effect contents) by the image display is varied. In this embodiment, after execution of the notice effect is started, when a pressing operation on the push button 31B is detected, the mask area corresponding to the mask pattern is moved, and the effective display area changes accordingly. Thus, the display amount (display portion) of the preview image as the display target image is gradually increased from the non-display state. The maximum display amount and display color of the preview image are set differently depending on the determination result of the preview effect pattern. In the example shown in FIG. 8C, the variable display result is set to be more likely to be a “big hit” as the maximum display amount increases.

  When it is determined as “no execution” in the process of step S213 shown in FIG. 7 (step S213; No), after the notice effect pattern is determined by the process of step S214, a plurality of effect control patterns prepared in advance are provided. One of the patterns is determined (step S215). For example, the effect control CPU 120 selects any one of a plurality of prepared effect control patterns (special-figure change effect control patterns) corresponding to the change pattern indicated by the change pattern designation command and uses it as the use pattern. set. Further, the effect control CPU 120 selects one of a plurality of prepared effect control patterns (notice effect control pattern) according to the determination result of the notice effect pattern, and sets it as a use pattern.

  Subsequent to the processing of step S215, for example, an initial value of an effect control process timer provided in a predetermined area (such as an effect control timer setting unit) of the RAM 122 is set corresponding to the change pattern specified by the change pattern specifying command. (Step S216). Then, the setting for starting the variation of the decorative design or the like on the screen of the image display device 5 is performed (step S217). At this time, for example, the display control command specified by the display control data included in the presentation control pattern (special-figure fluctuation presentation control pattern) determined in step S215 is transmitted to the VDP of the display control unit 123. For example, the variation of the decorative symbols may be started in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R provided in the display area of the image display device 5.

  After executing the process of step S217, in response to the start of variable display of decorative symbols, settings are made to update the hold storage display in the start winning storage display area 5H (step S218). For example, the display part corresponding to the hold number “1” in the start winning memory display area 5H may be deleted and the entire display part may be moved to the left one by one. Also, after the value of the effect process flag is updated to “2” which is a value corresponding to the effect process during variable display (step S219), the variable display start setting process is ended.

  FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the variable display effect process executed in step S172 of FIG. In the effect processing during variable display shown in FIG. 9, the effect control CPU 120 determines whether or not the variable display time corresponding to the variation pattern has elapsed based on, for example, the timer value of the effect control process timer (step S231). ). As an example, in the process of step S231, the timer value of the effect control process timer is updated (for example, 1 is subtracted), and an end code is read from the effect control pattern corresponding to the updated effect control process timer value. In addition, it may be determined that the variable display time has elapsed.

  If the variable display time has not elapsed in step S231 (step S231; No), it is determined whether it is a notice effect execution period (step S232). The notice effect execution period may be determined in advance in, for example, the effect control pattern (notice effect control pattern) determined in the process of step S215 shown in FIG. If it is the notice effect execution period (step S232; Yes), the notice effect control process is executed (step S233).

  When it is not the notice effect execution period in step S232 (step S232; No), after executing the notice effect control process in step S233, it is determined whether or not it is the reach effect execution period (step S234). The reach effect execution period may be determined in advance in, for example, the effect control pattern (special-fluctuation effect control pattern) determined in step S215 shown in FIG. When it is a reach production execution period (step S234; Yes), control for performing a reach production is performed (step S235).

  If it is not the reach effect period in step S234 (step S234; No), after executing the process of step S235, control for executing other effect operations such as, for example, a decorative display variable display operation is performed. (Step S236), the variable display effect process is terminated.

  In the processes of steps S235 and S236, for example, with reference to the effect control pattern determined in the process of step S215 shown in FIG. 7, the timer value of the effect control process timer matches one of the effect control process timer determination values. It is determined whether or not. Then, when it matches any one of the production control process timer determination values, the production operation is controlled according to the corresponding various control data. Thus, the effect control CPU 120, according to the contents of the process data included in the effect control pattern, the effect device (the image display device 5, the speakers 8L and 8R, the game effect lamp 9 and the decoration LED such as the decoration LED, the effect movable member). Control). In the process data, display control data, sound control data, lamp control data, and operation detection control data associated with the production control process timer determination value indicate the control content of the production operation in the production device, and execute the production control. The production control execution data for designating can be configured.

  A command according to such effect control execution data is output from the effect control CPU 120 to the display control unit 123, the sound control board 13, and the like. In the display control unit 123 that has received a command from the effect control CPU 120, for example, the VDP 130 reads out the image data indicated by the command from the image data memory 131 and temporarily stores it in the VRAM 132A. Further, the VDP 130 selects image data corresponding to the display screen of the image display device 5 from the image data stored in the VRAM 132A, converts the selected image data into pixel data, and the like. By arranging it at (a position indicated by information indicating the display position on the screen of the image display device 5), display data for one screen is created in the frame buffer 132B. When the voice control board 13 receives the command from the effect control CPU 120, for example, the voice synthesis IC reads the voice data indicated by the command from the voice data ROM and temporarily stores it in the voice RAM or the like. In this manner, a predetermined effect image is displayed on the screen of the image display device 5, a predetermined sound effect is output from the speakers 8L and 8R, and the game effect lamp 9 and the decoration LED are turned on, blinking, or turned off. What is necessary is just to be able to perform various production | presentation in a predetermined production | presentation apparatus by making it combine or some or all of these.

  If the variable display time has elapsed in step S231 (step S231; Yes), it is determined whether or not a symbol confirmation command transmitted from the main board 11 has been received (step S237). At this time, if there is no reception of the symbol confirmation command (step S237; No), the variable display effect processing is terminated and waits. If the predetermined time has passed without receiving the symbol confirmation command after the variable display time has elapsed, predetermined error processing is executed in response to the failure to receive the symbol confirmation command normally. You may make it do.

  When a symbol confirmation command is received in step S237 (step S237; Yes), for example, display is performed in variable symbol display such as transmitting a predetermined display control command to the VDP 130 of the display control unit 123. A control for deriving and displaying the final stop symbol (definite decorative symbol) as a result is performed (step S238). Further, a predetermined time is set as a waiting time for receiving the hit start designation command (step S239). Then, the value of the effect process flag is updated to “3” which is a value corresponding to the variable display stop process (step S240), and the variable display effect process is ended.

  FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the notice effect control process executed in step S233 of FIG. In the notice effect control process shown in FIG. 10, the effect control CPU 120 first determines whether or not it is the timing when the notice effect is started (step S301). When execution of the notice effect is started (step S301; Yes), a display image is set (step S302). The display image set in step S302 only needs to include a preview image and a background image that are display target images. The effect control CPU 120 reads the image data corresponding to the display image from the image data memory 131 by transmitting a display control command to the VDP 130 of the display control unit 123, and temporarily stores it in a predetermined area of the VRAM 132A. Let

  Subsequent to the processing in step S302, initial setting of the mask pattern is performed (step S303). The effect control CPU 120 reads the mask setting data from the image data memory 131 by transmitting a display control command to the VDP 130 of the display control unit 123, and stores it in a stencil buffer provided in the VRAM 132A. Since the drawing process is repeatedly executed while moving the mask pattern when the notice effect is executed, the mask setting data is stored in a predetermined area of the VRAM 132A different from the stencil buffer and is held reusable. Also good.

  After executing the process of step S303, the input detection counter is initialized (step S304). The input detection counter is provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 122, for example, and is used to specify the time when the pressing operation to the push button 31B by the player is detected. More specifically, the input detection count value, which is the stored value of the input detection counter, is initialized to “0” in the process of step S304. Thereafter, in the period until the notice image reaches the maximum display state corresponding to the notice effect pattern, or the period until the notice effect execution period ends, the input detection count value is detected each time the pressing operation on the push button 31B is detected. Is updated to add 1.

  When the execution of the notice effect is not started in step S301 (step S301; No), it is determined whether or not the notice image is in the maximum display state after the process of step S304 is executed (step S305). The effect control CPU 120 compares the maximum display determination value set corresponding to the notice effect pattern with the input detection count value, and is in the maximum display state when the input detection count value reaches the maximum display determination value. Can be determined.

  When it is in the maximum display state in step S305 (step S305; Yes), the notice effect control process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is not the maximum display state (step S305; No), it is determined whether or not a pressing operation on the push button 31B has been detected as detection of the predetermined input (step S306). If no input is detected (step S306; No), the notice effect control process is terminated. If there is input detection (step S306; Yes), the input detection count value is updated to be incremented by 1 (step S307). Thereafter, it is determined whether or not the updated input detection count value has reached the display update determination value (step S308). The display update determination value may be determined in advance by a notice effect control pattern or the like.

  When the input detection count value reaches the display update determination value (step S308; Yes), a setting for updating is performed by moving the mask pattern (step S309). The notice effect control pattern only needs to include mask update data for designating mask pattern coordinates for each of a plurality of types of display update determination values. The mask update data sets the mask pattern coordinates so that the mask pattern is moved in a predetermined direction every time the input detection count value reaches the display update determination value, and updates the stored data in the stencil buffer of the VRAM 132A. I just need it. The mask pattern coordinates only need to indicate the reference coordinates of the mask pattern, for example, the center coordinates of the mask pattern or the coordinates of the upper right end. When updating the mask pattern, the alpha channel of the stencil layer may be updated according to the mask pattern. If the alpha channel of the stencil layer has a constant alpha value (eg, “1”) over the entire screen, it is not necessary to update the alpha channel of the stencil layer even when updating the mask pattern.

  The setting for updating the mask pattern is not limited to updating the mask pattern coordinates so as to move the mask pattern in a predetermined direction. For example, the mask pattern magnification is updated to change the size by enlarging or reducing the mask pattern, and the mask pattern rotation amount is updated to rotate the mask pattern in a predetermined direction (for example, clockwise direction). It may be a thing to do. Alternatively, the characteristics of the mask pattern as a color filter may be updated so that the value of the color information channel (for example, one of the RGB values) for one or more display colors in the preview image is increased stepwise. Good. Alternatively, when multiple image parts included in the preview image are drawn on multiple different layers, the characteristics of the mask pattern as a layer mask so that the number of layers that can be drawn (allowed) is increased step by step May be updated.

  After the process of step S309 is performed, settings are made so that the alpha channel of the stencil layer is applied to the preview image included in the effective display area (step S310). In the mask area that is not the effective display area, clipping is performed so as not to display the preview image, and it is not necessary to apply the alpha channel. Settings for combining the preview image set in this way with the background image are performed (step S311). In the process of step S311, the image composition process may be performed so that the preview image is preferentially displayed in the effective display area and the background image is displayed in the mask area that is not the effective display area. For example, although the alpha value of the background image is not “0” corresponding to non-display, it is set to be sufficiently smaller than the alpha value of the notice image in the effective display area. Then, by performing a synthesis process such as alpha blending, drawing is performed so that the preview image is preferentially displayed in the effective display area. On the other hand, in the mask area, it is limited so that the preview image is not drawn by the mask pattern, and the drawing may be performed so that only the background image is displayed. In this way, the visibility is changed so that the preview image is not visible in the mask area included in the visibility change area, while the image portion of the preview image not included in the mask area is displayed with improved visibility. Can be made.

  If the input detection count value has not reached the display update determination value in step S308 (step S308; No), or after the processing of step S311 has been executed, has the input detection count value reached the lighting update determination value? Is determined (step S312). The lighting update determination value may be determined in advance by a notice effect control pattern or the like. The lighting update determination value may be included in a plurality of types of display update determination values, or may be determined separately from the display update determination value. When the input detection count value does not reach the lighting update determination value (step S312; No), the notice effect control process is terminated.

  If the input detection count value has reached the lighting update determination value in step S312 (step S312; Yes), a setting is made to update the lighting state of the input effect lamp 9A (step S313). For example, the lighting effect lamp 9A can change the lighting state in a plurality of stages until the maximum lighting amount is reached from the turn-off state, and in the process of step S313, the lighting state of the input lighting lamp 9A is increased by one step. Update. When the input effect lamp 9A includes a plurality of light emitters (such as light bulbs or LEDs), the input effect lamp 9A may be updated so as to increase the number of light emitters to be lit. The notice effect control pattern only needs to include lighting update data for designating the lighting state of the input effect lamp 9A for each of a plurality of types of lighting update determination values. The lighting update data only needs to set the updated lighting amount so that the lighting state of the input effect lamp 9A is increased by one step each time the input detection count value reaches the lighting update determination value. When the input detection count value reaches a specific lighting update determination value, it may be updated so that the lighting state of the input effect lamp 9A is increased by two or more stages.

  As a setting for updating the lighting state of the input effect lamp 9A, the light emission luminance of the input effect lamp 9A may be increased. The setting for updating the lighting state of the input effect lamp 9A is not limited to changing the lighting amount of the input effect lamp 9A. For example, the lighting color (light emission color) of the input effect lamp 9A may be updated so as to be changed stepwise in a predetermined order (blue, green, yellow, red, etc.). Alternatively, the number of blinks of the input effect lamp 9A (may be the number of flashes), the blink period, and a part or all of the blink cycle may be updated in stages.

  After executing the process of step S313, it is determined whether or not the input detection count value has reached the maximum display determination value (step S314). The maximum display determination value may be determined in advance by a notice effect control pattern or the like. If the input detection count value has not reached the maximum display determination value (step S314; No), the notice effect control process is terminated. When the input detection count value has reached the maximum display determination value (step S314; Yes), effect control is performed at the time of maximum display when the preview image is in the maximum display state (step S315). For example, in the process of step S315, the setting corresponding to the notice effect pattern is notified by displaying a predetermined effect image on the screen of the image display device 5 or outputting a predetermined sound from the speakers 8L and 8R. May be performed. Alternatively, in the process of step S315, the decoration LED provided inside the push button 31B may be turned off to notify that the pressing operation on the push button 31B is not accepted. Thereafter, the input detection counter is cleared and initialized to “0” (step S316), and the notice effect control process is terminated.

  FIG. 11 shows a display operation example according to the input detection count value and a lamp lighting update operation example. In the notice effect control pattern, the mask pattern coordinates and the input effect lamp lighting amount may be set for each input detection count value that becomes the display update determination value and the lighting update determination value. In the example shown in FIG. 11, it is determined that the display update determination value has been reached when the input detection count value is any one of D01, D03, D05, D07, and D09. At this time, the effective display area of the preview image changes by updating the mask pattern coordinates. The mask pattern coordinates may be updated so that the display amount of the preview image increases stepwise when a pressing operation on the push button 31B is detected. In the example shown in FIG. 11, when the input detection count value becomes any one of D01, D05, and D09, it is determined that the lighting update determination value has been reached. At this time, the lighting state of the input effect lamp 9A is updated to change the lighting amount. The input effect lamp lighting amount may be updated so that the lighting state of the input effect lamp 9A increases step by step as the display amount of the preview image increases. The display amount of the preview image may increase stepwise, while the lighting state of the input effect lamp 9A may increase rapidly.

  The display update determination value and the lighting update determination value may be set differently according to the notice effect pattern. For example, in the notice effect pattern SPA1, a relatively large count value may be set as the display update determination value, and in the notice effect pattern SPA5, a relatively small count value may be set as the display update determination value. When the display update determination value is a relatively large value, the input detection count value does not easily reach the display update determination value, and the mask pattern coordinates are not easily updated. Therefore, since the display amount of the preview image is difficult to increase, it can be suggested that the possibility that the variable display result will be a “big hit” is low. When the display update determination value is a relatively small value, the input detection count value easily reaches the display update determination value, and the mask pattern coordinates are easily updated. Therefore, since the display amount of the preview image is likely to increase, it can be suggested that the variable display result is likely to be a “big hit”. The lighting update determination value may be set similarly, or a setting different from the display update determination value may be performed. Thus, there is a possibility that the variable display result will be “big hit” depending on one or both of the speed of changing the display state of the preview image and the speed of changing the lighting state of the input effect lamp 9A. It may be suggested that the player can recognize the difference. Depending on the combination of the speed at which the display state of the preview image is changed and the maximum display amount of the preview image specified corresponding to the preview effect pattern, the possibility that the variable display result will be a “big hit” is different. It may be suggested that the person can recognize it. Players can now recognize that the possibility of a variable display result being a “big hit” depends on the combination of the speed at which the display state of the preview image changes and the display amount of the preview image that is not limited to the maximum display amount. You may suggest.

  In the setting example of the notice effect pattern shown in FIG. 8C, the maximum display amount of the notice image is varied according to the notice effect pattern, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the maximum display amount of the notice image is 100% regardless of the notice effect pattern, while the speed of changing the display state of the notice image may be different depending on the notice effect pattern. As a specific example, in the notice effect pattern SPA1, a display update determination value or the like is set so that the speed of changing the display state of the notice image becomes low, and the maximum display amount is reached within the notice effect execution period. It may be difficult or impossible. On the other hand, in the notice effect pattern SPA5, a display update determination value or the like is set so that the speed of changing the display state of the notice image is high, and it is easy to reach the maximum display amount within the notice effect execution period. It may be. Alternatively, the maximum display amount of the notice image may be 100% regardless of the notice effect pattern, while the display color of the notice image may be different depending on the notice effect pattern.

  In the setting example of the notice effect pattern shown in FIG. 8C, the display color of the notice image is varied according to the notice effect pattern, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the display color of the notice image may be the same display color regardless of the notice effect pattern, or may be set so as to change according to the display amount of the notice image, although it does not differ depending on the notice effect pattern. As a specific example, when the display amount of the preview image is less than 30%, the display color is blue. When the display amount of the preview image is 30% or more and less than 50%, the display color is yellow. When the amount is 50% or more, a red display color may be used.

  The mask pattern coordinates are not limited to those updated so as to move the mask pattern in a certain direction when a pressing operation on the push button 31B is detected. For example, by preparing a plurality of types of mask update data having different movement directions of the mask pattern, and updating the mask pattern coordinates using the mask update data selected at a predetermined ratio, the mask pattern is changed in a plurality of directions. You may move to either of them. Further, the mask pattern may be moved in any one of a plurality of directions by updating the mask pattern coordinates using different mask update data according to the notice effect pattern. In this case, it is suggested that the player can recognize that the possibility that the variable display result becomes a “big hit” varies depending on the direction in which the preview image is displayed in stages according to the movement of the mask pattern. be able to.

  FIG. 12 shows an example of drawing processing using a stencil buffer. In the stencil buffer shown in FIG. 12A, the mask information becomes an off value (shaded portion) in the mask area SA1 corresponding to the circular mask pattern, and the mask information is in the effective display area SA2 excluding the mask area SA1. ON value (outlined portion). When a figure YS1 as shown in FIG. 12B is prepared as a preview image to be a display target image, in the process of step S303 shown in FIG. 10, for example, as shown in FIG. The mask pattern is initially set so as to include the whole. In this case, pixels corresponding to the entire figure YS1 cannot be drawn (prohibited), and the preview image is not displayed.

  Thereafter, when it is determined that there is input detection by the process of step S306 shown in FIG. 10, and it is determined that the input detection count value has reached the display update determination value by the process of step S308, the mask pattern is updated by the process of step S309. Is performed to move the position of the mask area SA1. Thereby, for example, as shown in FIG. 12D, a part of the figure YS1 is included in the effective display area SA2 outside the mask area SA1. In this case, some pixels included in the effective display area SA2 of the figure YS1 can be drawn (permitted), and the image portion included in the effective display area SA2 of the preview image (not included in the mask area SA1). The image portion) is displayed as opaque or translucent.

FIG. 13A shows a first setting example of the alpha channel in the stencil layer. In the alpha channel shown in FIG. 13A, the alpha value is “0” (black portion) in the circular transparent setting area AA1 corresponding to the circular mask area SA1 shown in FIG. In the opacity setting area AA2 corresponding to SA2, the alpha value is “1” (outlined portion). In the process of step S310 shown in FIG. 10, the image portion included in the effective display area SA2 in figure YS 1 as notice image, the alpha channel of the stencil layer is applied, the alpha value is set to "1". Thus, the image part included in the effective display area SA2 (the image part not included in the mask area SA1) of the preview image is displayed in an opaque manner, and can be displayed with improved visibility.

  Further, the mask pattern is updated, and for example, as shown in FIG. 12E, the entire figure YS1 may be included in the effective display area SA2 outside the mask area SA1. In this case, pixels corresponding to the entire figure YS1 can be drawn (permitted), and the entire preview image is displayed opaque or translucent. In the first setting example of the alpha channel as shown in FIG. 13A, the entire preview image is displayed opaquely, and can be displayed with improved visibility.

  The mask area SA1 is not limited to that the drawing of the notice image becomes impossible (prohibited) and the notice image is not displayed. Even if at least a part of the notice image is displayed in a translucent state that is difficult for the player to see. Good. For example, in the predetermined area close to the effective display area SA2 in the mask area SA1, the alpha value of the notice image is set to a predetermined value close to “0” but not “0”. The alpha value may be set so as to decrease stepwise from the effective display area SA2 where the alpha value is “1” toward a predetermined position (for example, the center position of the circle) of the mask area SA1. In other parts of the mask area SA, the alpha value of the preview image is set to “0”. Thereafter, by combining with the background image by the process of step S311 shown in FIG. 10, in the mask area SA1, a part of the preview image may be hidden and the other part of the preview image may be displayed translucently. . As described above, the mask area SA1 only needs to be a visibility changing area in which the visibility of the preview image changes. Note that even when the drawing of the preview image is impossible (prohibited) in the mask area SA1, the visibility level of the preview image is different from that of the effective display area SA2, and thus is included in the visibility change area.

  The mask area SA1 is not limited to being rendered non-displayable (prohibited) in any of the preview images, and is not limited to, for example, rendering of an image portion included in a predetermined layer of the preview image ( It may be prohibited and not displayed. For example, when the preview image is drawn on a plurality of layers including the first layer and the second layer, the preview image for the first layer is not allowed (prohibited) in the mask area SA1, while the preview image for the second layer is not allowed. The drawing may be possible (permitted). As described above, even when drawing of a part of the preview image is not possible (prohibited) in the mask area SA1, the visibility of the preview image is different from that of the effective display area SA2, and thus the visibility is changed. It is.

  Alternatively, the mask area SA1 may function as a color filter that clears or reduces the value of the color information channel (for example, one of the RGB values) for a predetermined display color in the preview image. Alternatively, the mask area SA1 may change the value of the color information channel to a maximum value or a predetermined value for a predetermined display color in the preview image. Alternatively, the mask area SA1 may add a predetermined pattern or color to the preview image, or may deform the preview image into a predetermined shape. As described above, the mask area SA1 only needs to have a function of making the visibility different from that of the effective display area SA2 for at least a part of the preview image.

  In the effective display area SA2, the notice image is not limited to being displayed opaquely, and at least a part of the notice image may be displayed translucently. For example, by setting the alpha channel of the stencil layer to an alpha value greater than “0” and less than “1” and applying the alpha value to the alpha value of the preview image, the preview image is displayed translucently. In this case, the alpha value in the entire stencil layer may be less than “1”, and the alpha value in a predetermined portion of the stencil layer, for example, in the vicinity of the mask area SA1, may be less than “1”.

  FIG. 13B shows a second setting example of the alpha channel of the stencil layer. In the alpha channel shown in FIG. 13B, the alpha value becomes “1” outside the transparent setting area where the alpha value becomes “0” corresponding to the mask area SA1 shown in FIG. The alpha value is set to gradually increase toward the opaque setting area. In this case, the preview image is displayed translucently at the boundary between the transparent setting area and the opaque setting area. Thereby, a part of the preview image included in the effective display area SA2 (the preview image not included in the mask image SA1) may be displayed in a translucent manner. In this case, not only in the mask area SA1 but also in the effective display area SA2, the alpha value is “1” in the effective display area SA2 in a predetermined portion (semi-transparent setting area) where the alpha value is less than “1”. Since the visibility of the preview image is different when compared with the portion, it is included in the visibility change region. Thus, not only the mask area SA1 but also a part of the effective display area SA2 may be set to be included in the visibility change area.

  By setting an alpha channel as shown in FIG. 13B, the preview image is displayed translucently at the boundary between the mask area SA1 and the effective display area SA2. Thereby, the display amount of the preview image can be changed smoothly, so that a sense of incongruity with the change in display can be eliminated and the player's interest can be increased. Note that, at the boundary portion between the mask area SA1 and the effective display area SA2, the notice image is not limited to being displayed translucently. For example, the boundary portion may be one that blurs the notice image or one that adds special display processing such as bordering, shadowing, or mosaic. By performing display processing of such a boundary portion, the display amount of the preview image can be changed smoothly, so that a sense of incongruity with the display change can be eliminated and the player's interest can be increased.

  Thus, for example, when a predetermined operation by the player, such as a pressing operation on the push button 31B, is detected, the visibility changing region is changed by updating the mask pattern for setting the mask region SA1, and the like. Among them, at least an image part that is not included in the visibility change region can be displayed on the screen of the image display device 5. In this way, since the display state of the preview image is changed according to the update of the mask pattern prepared in advance without changing the image data of the preview image itself, it is possible to prevent the definition of the preview image from changing. Thus, the beauty of the preview image can be improved. In addition, the display state of the preview image can be changed more flexibly than when the display state of the preview image is changed by playing or rewinding a moving image that has been subjected to a predetermined encoding process. In addition, since the preview image and the mask pattern need only be prepared as still images, an increase in data capacity can be prevented. Furthermore, since the decoding process as in the case of playing or rewinding a moving image is not required, the processing load of image display can be reduced while improving the beauty of the preview image.

  FIG. 14 shows an execution example of the notice effect that changes the display state of the notice image. In this execution example, as shown in FIG. 14A, when the decorative symbols are variably displayed in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R, the notice effect is displayed. The execution of is started. As the notice effect is started, the decorative symbols in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R are reduced and displayed. In addition, a display of an effect image for notifying a message that prompts continuation of the pressing operation on the push button 31B (long pressing), output of sound, or the like may be performed.

  In the notice effect execution period in which such a notice effect is executed, the mask pattern coordinates are changed and displayed on the screen in the notice image based on, for example, the player pressing the push button 31B. Change the size of the image area. The effect control CPU 120 updates the display state of the preview image according to the detection result of the pressing operation on the push button 31B in the processing of steps S306 to S311 shown in FIG. Each time a pressing operation on the push button 31B is detected, the input detection count value is updated by the process of step S307. When the display update determination value is reached by the process of step S308, the processes of steps S309 to S311 are executed. As a result, for example, as shown in FIGS. 14B and 14C, the preview image in the form of “moon” is updated so that the display amount is increased stepwise.

  When the input detection count value reaches the lighting update determination value in the process of step S312 shown in FIG. 10, the lighting state of the input effect lamp 9A is updated by the process of step S313. Thereby, for example, as shown in FIGS. 14B and 14C, the display effect of the input effect lamp 9A is updated so that the lighting amount increases stepwise in accordance with the update of the display state of the preview image. Is done. By changing the lighting state of the input effect lamp 9A, the degree of change in the display state of the preview image is notified so that the player can easily recognize, and the player's interest in the display change is increased. Can do.

  The present invention is not limited to the above embodiment, and various modifications and applications are possible. For example, the pachinko gaming machine 1 does not have to include all the technical features shown in the above embodiment, and the part described in the above embodiment so as to solve at least one problem in the prior art. It may be provided with the following structure. As a specific example, in the above embodiment, the input detection count value is updated each time a pressing operation on the push button 31B is detected, and the display state of the preview image is changed according to the updated input detection count value. Let On the other hand, for example, when a single pressing operation on the push button 31B is detected, a process for changing the display state of the preview image is started until the maximum display amount corresponding to the preview effect pattern is reached. Then, the display state of the preview image may be continuously changed regardless of whether or not a pressing operation is detected thereafter. Alternatively, the display state of the preview image may be changed according to the number of times that the push operation on the push button 31B is repeatedly detected repeatedly (number of repeated hits). Alternatively, after a process of changing the display state of the preview image is started when a single pressing operation on the push button 31B is detected, and when a single pressing operation on the push button 31B is further detected, the notification image is displayed. The process of changing the display state of may be stopped.

  The display state of the preview image is not limited to the one that changes the display state of the preview image according to the detection result of the push operation on the push button 31B, and the display state of the preview image can be changed according to the result of detecting the operation to be detected. I just need it. For example, the display state of the preview image may be changed according to the detection result of a predetermined operation (one or both of a tilting operation with respect to the operating rod and a push-pull operation with respect to the trigger button) on the stick controller 31A. The display state of the preview image may be changed according to the combination of the detection result of the predetermined operation on the stick controller 31A and the detection result of the pressing operation on the push button 31B. The configuration for detecting the motion of the detection target is not limited to the controller sensor unit 35A that detects an operation on the stick controller 31A or the push sensor 35B that detects an operation on the push button 31B. The sensor which detects operation may be sufficient, and the contact operation and press operation with respect to a touch panel may be detected. Further, for example, a sensor that can detect a predetermined instruction input action by a player or an operation of another detection target (for example, a marker), such as an infrared sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, a CCD sensor, or a CMOS sensor, may be used. Analyzing the result of shooting a player's hand using a predetermined camera (video motion capture) to detect the player's instruction input operation and other detection target (eg, marker) operation Also good. That is, the configuration for detecting the operation of the detection target may be any configuration that can detect the operation mechanically, electrically, or electromagnetically.

  In the embodiment described above, the lighting state of the input effect lamp 9A is changed in accordance with the change in the display state of the preview image. In contrast, in a configuration that does not include the input effect lamp 9A, the display state of the preview image may be changed according to the operation detection result of the detection target. In accordance with the change in the display state of the preview image, a predetermined sound effect is output from the speakers 8L and 8R, and a movable member constituting the effect object provided inside or outside the game area is operated. Some or all of the predetermined performance operations such as vibrating the operation rod of the stick controller 31A or giving a predetermined tactile sensation by driving the exhaust fan or irradiating ultrasonic waves may be executed.

  In the above-described embodiment, in the mask area corresponding to the mask pattern, the drawing of the preview image is disabled (prohibited) and is not displayed, and the alpha value is set to “0” by applying the alpha channel of the stencil layer. In the mask area, an image composition process is performed so that a background image is displayed. On the other hand, in the mask area where the preview image is not displayed, an effect image different from the background image may be displayed, or the display of the effect image including the background image may be restricted. . The effect image displayed in the mask area may be varied according to the notice effect pattern. In this case, it can be suggested that the player can recognize that the possibility that the variable display result will be a “hit” depends on the effect image displayed in the mask area.

  The notice effect that changes the display state of the notice image according to the predetermined motion detection result may be executed before the variable display state of the decorative symbol becomes the reach state, or may be executed after the reach state is reached. Good. In addition, it is not limited to the notice effect, the probability change promotion effect such as the reach effect, the re-drawing effect and the promotion effect during the jackpot, the promotion effect of the number of round executions in the jackpot game state, the predetermined effect mode (probability latency mode after the jackpot game state ends) ) As a part or all of an effect that suggests the possibility that a game value advantageous to the player is given, such as a probability change suggestion effect that suggests the possibility that the game state is in a probability change state. An effect of changing the display state of the effect image according to the detection result may be executed.

  The game value that can be given in the pachinko gaming machine 1 is not limited to paying out a game ball as a winning ball or giving a score. For example, the game value is controlled to a big hit game state or a special game state such as a probability change state. In other words, the maximum number of rounds that can be executed in the big hit gaming state is the first round number (for example, “15”) larger than the second round number (for example, “2”), and the variable that can be executed in the short time state. The upper limit number of times of display is a first number (for example, “100”) larger than the second number of times (for example, “50”), and the big hit probability in the probability variation state is higher than the second probability (for example, 1/50). The first that the probability of being a probability (for example, 1/20), the number of consecutive chunks, which is the number of times of repeated control to the big hit gaming state without being controlled to the normal state, is greater than the second consecutive number of chunks (for example, “5”) Ream Number of emissions (for example, "10") and such part or all of becoming, it may include be a more favorable game situation for the player.

  In the above embodiment, variable display is started in order to notify the effect control CPU 120 of the change pattern indicating the variable display mode such as the variable display time of the decorative symbol corresponding to the special figure change time and the type of reach effect. Although an example of transmitting one variation pattern designation command by the process of step S112 (see FIG. 4) executed sometimes is shown, the variation pattern is notified to the effect control CPU 120 by two or more commands. You may make it do. Specifically, in the case of notifying by two commands, the gaming control microcomputer 100 uses the first command as a first command before reaching reach, such as the presence or absence of variable display effects such as “slip” and “pseudo-continuous” (reach) If not, a command indicating the variable display time and variable display mode of the so-called second stop) is transmitted, and the second command is reached, such as the type of reach and the presence / absence of a re-lottery effect. You may make it transmit the command which shows variable display time after that (after what is called a 2nd stop when not reaching, and a variable display mode). In this case, the effect control CPU 120 may perform effect control in variable display based on the variable display time derived from the two commands. In the game control microcomputer 100, the variable display time is notified by each of the two commands, and a specific variable display mode executed at each timing is selected by the effect control CPU 120. It may be. When sending two commands, the two commands may be transmitted within the same timer interrupt, or after a predetermined time has elapsed after the first command is transmitted (for example, in the next timer interrupt). ) A second command may be transmitted. In addition, the variable display mode indicated by each command is not limited to this example, and the order of transmission can be changed as appropriate. In this way, by notifying the variation pattern by two or more commands, the amount of data to be stored and prepared in advance as the variation pattern designation command can be reduced.

  The pachinko gaming machine 1 may be one that does not perform variable display of special symbols and decorative symbols. As an example, based on the detection of a game ball that has passed (entered) a start winning opening provided in the game area, the variable winning device provided in the game area is changed from the closed state (second state) to the open state ( When the game ball that has entered the variable winning device enters the specific area (V winning opening) of the plurality of areas, it is controlled to a big hit gaming state that is advantageous to the player. It may be a thing. When a game ball that has entered the variable winning device is detected, the game effect pattern is selected at a predetermined ratio according to the game result and game state, for example, the upper limit number of rounds that can be executed in the big hit game state. An effect that changes the display state of the effect image corresponding to the game effect pattern may be executed based on the predetermined motion detection result.

  The present invention is applicable not only to the pachinko gaming machine 1 but also to a slot machine or the like. A slot machine is an arbitrary gaming machine that performs a predetermined game such as variable display of symbols that are a plurality of types of identification information and that can be assigned a predetermined game value based on the game result, and more specifically, A variable display device that can start a game by setting a predetermined number of bets (the number of medals or credits) for one game and variably displays a plurality of types of identification information (designs) that can be identified One game is completed by displaying and displaying a display result (for example, a plurality of reels, etc.), and a prize (for example, a cherry prize, a watermelon prize, a bell prize, a replay prize, a BB prize, an RB prize, etc.) is displayed according to the display result. ) Can be generated. In such a slot machine, the pachinko gaming machine 1 shown in the above embodiment has a feature that hardware resources including an image display device of the slot machine cooperate with software that performs predetermined processing. What is necessary is just to be comprised so that all or one part may be provided. Specifically, after the variable display of the symbol is started, the game effect pattern is selected at a predetermined ratio according to the game result and the game state, such as whether or not a predetermined winning combination is won in the internal lottery, An effect of changing the display state of the effect image corresponding to the game effect pattern may be executed based on the predetermined motion detection result.

  In addition, various effects including the device configuration and data configuration of the gaming machine, the processing shown in the flowchart, the image display operation of the image display device, the sound output operation of the speaker, and the lighting operation of the game effect lamp and decoration LED The operation and the like can be arbitrarily changed and modified without departing from the spirit of the present invention. In addition, the gaming machine of the present invention is not limited to a payout type gaming machine that pays out a predetermined number of gaming media as prizes based on the occurrence of winnings, and is scored based on the occurrence of winnings by enclosing gaming media It can also be applied to an enclosed game machine that gives Slot machines are not limited to those where bets are set using medals and credits as gaming values, but only slot machines that set betting numbers using gaming balls as gaming values, or only credits as gaming values. It may be a full credit type slot machine that sets the number of bets using. When game balls are used as game media, for example, one medal can correspond to five game balls. For example, when 3 is set as the bet number, the number of bets using 15 game balls is used. Is equivalent to setting The pachinko gaming machine 1 and the slot machine are not limited to those using only one of a plurality of types of gaming values such as medals and game balls, but for example, a plurality of types of medals and gaming balls. The game value may be used together. For example, a slot machine can play a game by setting the number of bets using any one of a plurality of types of gaming values such as medals and game balls, and a plurality of medals and game balls can be played by winning. Any of the types of gaming value may be paid out.

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

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

  As described above, in the above-described embodiment, the visibility change region such as the mask region is changed based on the detection result of the operation to be detected, such as the detection result of the push operation on the push button 31B, and the like An image portion that is not included in the visibility change region in the specific image to be displayed is displayed. Thereby, a player's interest with respect to the change of a display can be heightened and a game interest can be improved.

  For example, in the notice effect control process shown in FIG. 10, when it is determined in the process of step S <b> 306 that there is an input detection, the process of steps S <b> 307 to S <b> 311 can be executed, and the detection target operation is detected. The visibility change region is changed. Thereby, the display suitable for operation | movement of a detection target can be performed, and game entertainment can be improved.

  For example, by changing the maximum display amount of the notice image according to the notice effect pattern shown in FIG. 8 (C) and determining the notice effect pattern at a predetermined ratio according to the variable display contents as shown in FIG. 8 (B). The ratio of the big hit gaming state is varied according to the size of the image portion not included in the visibility changing region. Thereby, a player's interest with respect to the change of a display can be heightened and a game interest can be improved.

  For example, in the notice effect control process shown in FIG. 10, when the input detection count value is determined to have reached the lighting update determination value in the process of step S <b> 312, the process of step S <b> 313 is executed, thereby The input effect lamp 9A is lit in a different lighting mode according to the change. Thereby, it is easy to recognize the change of the display, and the game entertainment can be improved.

  For example, in the notice effect control process shown in FIG. 10, the background image is displayed in the visibility change region by executing the process of step S311. Thereby, the uncomfortable feeling of display in the visibility change region can be eliminated, and the game entertainment can be improved.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Pachinko machine 2 ... Game board 3 ... Gaming machine frame 4A, 4B ... Special symbol display device 5 ... Image display device 6A ... Ordinary winning ball device 6B ... Ordinary variable winning ball device 7 ... Special variable winning ball device 8L, 8R ... Speaker 9 ... Game effect lamp 11 ... Main board 12 ... Production control board 13 ... Audio control board 14 ... Lamp control board 15 ... Relay board 20 ... Normal symbol display 21 ... Gate switch 22A, 22B ... Start-up switch 23 ... Count switch 100... Game control microcomputer 101, 121... ROM
102, 122 ... RAM
103 ... CPU
104, 124 ... random number circuit 105, 125 ... I / O
120 ... CPU for effect control
123 ... Display control unit 130 ... VDP
131 ... Image data memory 132A ... VRAM
132B ... Frame buffer 133 ... LCD drive circuit

Claims (1)

A gaming machine for playing games,
Image display means for displaying an image;
Detecting means for detecting the player 's movement;
Control means for controlling image display in the image display means ,
The control means includes
Arrangement means for arranging image data for displaying an image;
Setting means for arranging setting data for setting the visibility change region ;
Moving means for moving an arrangement position of the setting data so that the visibility changing region moves based on a detection result of the detecting means;
Processing means for displaying an image by executing image processing using the image data and the setting data,
When the processing means displays a specific image superimposed on a background image,
The cause of the image portion not included in the visibility change area of the specific image is displayed in a predetermined transparency,
The image portion included in the visibility change region of the specific image is displayed with a transparency that is more transparent than the predetermined transparency, and the image is included in the image portion included in the visibility change region. To display the background image,
In a period in which the moving position of the setting data can be moved by the moving means, a promotion image that prompts the player's action is displayed, and the transparency of the promotion image does not change based on the action of the player.
A gaming machine characterized by that.