JP6340039B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

The present invention executes a variable display game that displays a plurality of identification information in a variable manner based on the establishment of a predetermined condition, displays a game effect related to the variable display game, and performs display control of the display device. And an effect control device for performing a game machine capable of generating a special gaming state advantageous to a player when the stop result mode of the variable display game is a special result mode determined in advance.

Conventionally, when a variable display game is executed in which a plurality of pieces of identification information are changed based on winning of a game ball in the start winning area, and the stop result mode of the variable display game becomes a predetermined special result mode, the player in a possible gaming machine generates a favorable special game state for, what Yu skill person with a staging operation means operable, and allows control of the symbol variation varying display game triggered by the operation of the staging operation means by the player It has been known.
Specifically, the above-described production operation means includes a first switch for immediately stopping the changing symbol displayed on the symbol display and a second switch for reducing the symbol changing time. Based on the operation of these switches, the variation mode of the currently running variation display game can be changed to a shortened mode with a shorter variation time than when no operation is performed (for example, see Patent Document 1).

JP 2005-111107 A

The present invention aims a player of interest in Yu technique machine can be suppressed.

The invention according to 請 Motomeko 1,
A display device capable of executing a variable display game that displays a plurality of identification information in a variable manner based on establishment of a predetermined condition and displaying a game effect related to the variable display game, and an effect control device that performs display control of the display device And comprising
In the gaming machine capable of generating a special gaming state advantageous to the player when the stop result mode of the variable display game is a special result mode determined in advance,
Providing production operation means that can be operated by the player,
The production control device
During the execution of the variable display game, a production operation valid period generating means for generating a production operation valid period for validating an input from the production operation means,
In one variation display game,
When the effect operation means is operated during the effect operation valid period, the display timing of the game effect displayed when the effect operation means is operated is displayed when the effect operation means is not operated. It is possible to make it earlier than the display time of the game production .
Ri can der possible to generate a plurality of pre-Symbol staging operation effective period of times,
Among the plurality of staging operation lifetime, and wherein the presentation when the operating means has performed a specific effect is operated to, it does not generate a staging operation valid period after during the previous staging operation lifetime To do.

According to the present invention, it is possible to interest in our Keru game to Yu technique machine can be suppressed.

1 is a perspective view showing a gaming machine according to a first embodiment of the present invention. It is a front view of the game board provided in the gaming machine of FIG. It is a block diagram which shows the control system and game control apparatus which are provided in the gaming machine of FIG. It is a block diagram which shows the production | presentation control apparatus in the control system of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the main process performed by the microcomputer for games of the game control apparatus of FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a continuation of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the timer interruption process performed by the game microcomputer of the game control apparatus of FIG. It is a flowchart of the special figure game process in the timer interruption process of FIG. It is a flowchart of the start port switch monitoring process in the special figure game process of FIG. 10 is a flowchart of a special-purpose start port switch common process in the start port switch monitoring process of FIG. 9. It is a flowchart of the special figure hold information determination process in the special figure start port switch common process of FIG. It is a flowchart of the special figure usual process in the special figure game process of FIG. It is a flowchart of the special figure 1 fluctuation start process in the special figure usual process of FIG. It is a flowchart of the special figure 2 fluctuation start process in the special figure usual process of FIG. It is a flowchart of the fluctuation pattern preparation process for shortening in the special figure 1 fluctuation start process of FIG. 13, or the special figure 2 fluctuation start process of FIG. It is a flowchart of the special figure change process in the special figure game process of FIG. It is a flowchart of the fluctuation reduction effect selection process in the timer interruption process of FIG. It is a flowchart of the change time change process in the special figure game process of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the 1st main process performed by the microcomputer for main control of the production | presentation control apparatus of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the 2nd main process performed by the microcomputer for video control of the presentation control apparatus of FIG. FIG. 21 is a flowchart of a normal game process in the 2nd main process of FIG. 20. FIG. It is a flowchart of the fluctuation reduction effect process in the normal game process of FIG. It is a flowchart of the fluctuation reduction selection effect execution process in the fluctuation reduction effect process of FIG. It is a flowchart of the fluctuation reduction effect execution process in the fluctuation reduction selection effect execution process of FIG. It is a figure explaining the content of the fluctuation shortening effect of the embodiment. It is a figure explaining the content of the fluctuation shortening effect of the embodiment. It is a figure explaining the example of a display of the change shortening selection production | presentation displayed on the display apparatus of FIG. It is a figure explaining the example of a display of the normal effect in the display apparatus of FIG. It is a figure explaining the example of a display of the fluctuation shortening effect in the display apparatus of FIG. It is a figure explaining the example of a display of the fluctuation shortening effect in the display apparatus of FIG. It is a figure explaining the modification of the fluctuation shortening effect of the embodiment. It is a figure explaining the modification of the fluctuation shortening effect of the embodiment.

<Embodiment>
DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram of a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.

  The gaming machine 10 of this embodiment includes a main body frame (outer frame) 11 and a front frame (inner frame) 12, and the front frame 12 is assembled to the main body frame 11 via a hinge 13 so as to be openable and closable. . The game board 30 (see FIG. 2) is stored in a storage portion (not shown) formed on the front side of the front frame 12. A glass frame 15 having a cover glass (transparent member) 14 that covers the front surface of the game board 30 is attached to the front frame 12.

  Further, an illuminating device (moving light) 16 having a built-in lamp and motor and a lamp (LED) 17 for paying out abnormality notification are provided in the upper part of the glass frame 15. Further, on the left and right sides of the glass frame 15, there are provided a frame decoration device 18 with a built-in lamp and the like for emitting light for decoration and production, and a speaker (upper speaker) 19a for emitting sound (for example, sound effects). Yes. Further, a speaker (lower speaker) 19 b is also provided below the front frame 12.

  In addition, at the lower part of the front frame 12, an upper plate 21 for supplying game balls to a not-shown hitting ball launcher, and game balls paid out from a ball payout device provided on the back side of the gaming machine 10 flow out. There are provided a dish tray outlet 22, a lower dish 23 for storing game balls paid out in a state in which the upper dish 21 is full, an operation unit 24 of a ball striking device, and the like. In addition, an effect button 25 (operation means) that can be operated (pressed) by the player from the outside is provided on the upper edge of the upper plate 21. The effect button 25 is provided with a button switch 25a (see FIG. 3) for detecting the operation (pressed). Further, a key 26 for opening and locking the front frame 12 is provided on the lower right side of the front frame 12.

  In the gaming machine 10 of this embodiment, when the player rotates the operation unit 24, the hitting ball launching device directs the game ball supplied from the upper plate 21 toward the game area 32 on the front surface of the game board 30. And fire. Further, when the player operates the effect button 25, an effect or the like in which the player's operation is intervened is performed in the variable display game (decoration special map variable display game) on the display device 41 (see FIG. 2). Can do. Further, on the front surface of the glass frame 15 above the upper plate 21, a ball lending button 27 that is operated when a player receives a ball lending from an adjacent ball lending machine, and a prepaid card to be discharged from the card unit of the ball lending machine. A discharge button 28 for operating the balance, a balance display section (not shown) for displaying the balance of the prepaid card, and the like are provided.

  Next, an example of the game board 30 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 2 is a front view of the game board 30 of the present embodiment.

  On the surface of the game board 30, a substantially circular game area 32 surrounded by the guide rail 31 is formed. The game area 32 is surrounded by resin side cases 33 and guide rails 31 provided at the four corners of the game board 30. In the game area 32, a center case 40 provided with a display device (symbol display device, decoration display device) 41 is disposed substantially at the center. The display device 41 is attached to a recessed portion provided in the center case 40 at a position deeper than the front surface of the center case 40. That is, the center case 40 surrounds the display area of the display device 41 and is formed to protrude forward from the display surface of the display device 41.

  The display device 41 is configured by a device having a display screen such as an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) or a CRT (CRT). A plurality of pieces of identification information (special symbols), a character that produces a special figure variation display game, a background image that enhances the effect, and the like are displayed in an area (display area) in which an image of the display screen can be displayed. On the display screen of the display device 41, a plurality of special symbols assigned as identification information are variably displayed (variably displayed), and a decorative special figure variation display game corresponding to the special diagram variation display game is played. In addition, an image for an effect based on the progress of the game (for example, a jackpot display image, a fanfare display image, an ending display image, etc.) is displayed on the display screen.

On the left side of the center case 40 in the game area 32, a normal symbol start gate (ordinary start gate) 34 is provided. Three general winning openings 35 are arranged on the lower left side of the center case 40, and one general winning opening 35 is arranged on the lower right side of the center case 40.
In each of the general winning ports 35,..., Winning port switches 35a to 35n (see FIG. 3) for detecting a game ball that has entered each of the general winning ports 35 are arranged.

  Also, below the center case 40, there is provided a start winning opening (start winning area) 36 for giving a start condition for the special figure changing display game. An ordinary variable winning device (general power, starting winning area) 37 having a pair of opening / closing members (movable members) 37b, 37b for converting the ball into a state in which it is easy to flow in and having a second starting winning opening is provided. Yes.

The pair of opening / closing members 37b, 37b of the normal variation winning device 37 always holds a closed state (a disadvantageous state for the player) with an interval of about the diameter of the game ball. However, since the start winning port 36 is provided above the normal variation winning device 37, the game ball cannot be won in the closed state.
When the result of the normal variation display game becomes a predetermined stop display mode, it is opened in a reverse “C” shape by a general electric solenoid 37c (see FIG. 3) as a driving device, and a normal variation prize is awarded. The device 37 can be changed to an open state (a state advantageous to the player) in which a game ball easily flows.

  Further, a special variable winning device (large winning mouth) 38 that can be converted into a state where a game ball is not accepted and a state where it is easy to accept depending on the result of the special figure changing display game is arranged below the normal variable winning device 37. Yes.

The special variation winning device 38 has an attacker-type open / close door 38c that can be opened by rotating in a direction in which the upper end side is tilted toward the near side, depending on the result of the special figure variation display game as an auxiliary game. The state is converted from a closed state (closed state unfavorable for the player) to an open state (a state advantageous to the player).
In other words, the special variable winning device 38 includes, for example, a large winning opening that is opened and closed by an open / close door 38c driven by a large winning port solenoid 38b (see FIG. 3) as a driving device. By converting the closed state from the closed state to the open state, the inflow of game balls into the special winning opening is facilitated, and a predetermined game value (prize ball) is given to the player.
In addition, a count switch 38a (see FIG. 3) as a detecting means for detecting a game ball that has entered the special winning opening is disposed inside the special winning opening (winning area).
Below the special variable winning device 38, there is provided an out port 39 for collecting game balls that have not won a winning port.

  Also, outside the game area 32 (for example, at the top of the game board 30), the first special figure fluctuation display game and the second special figure fluctuation display game that form the special figure fluctuation display game, and the winning for the normal figure start gate 34 are awarded. A collective display device (symbol display device) 50 that executes the universal symbol change display game using the above as a trigger is provided.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the collective display device 50 includes a first special figure variation display unit (special figure 1 indicator) for a first special figure variation display game configured by a 7-segment type indicator (LED lamp) or the like. ) 51 and the second special figure fluctuation display part (special figure 2 display) 52 for the second special figure fluctuation display game, the fluctuation display part (general figure display) 53 for the common figure fluctuation display game, and the LED Storage display units 54 to 56 for informing the start memory number of each variable display game composed of lamps are provided. Further, the collective display device 50 is turned on when a big hit occurs and a first gaming state display unit (first gaming state indicator) 57 that notifies the occurrence of the big hit, and lights up when a short time state occurs to notify the occurrence of a short time state. A second game state display unit (second game state display) 60, an error display unit 58 for displaying an error in which the probability state of the jackpot is a high probability state when the gaming machine 10 is turned on, and the number of rounds at the time of the jackpot A round display section 59 for displaying (the number of times the special variable winning device 38 is opened and closed) is provided.

  The special figure fluctuation display game in the special figure 1 display 51 and the special figure 2 display 52 is, for example, during the execution of the fluctuation display game, that is, while the decoration special figure fluctuation display game is being performed on the display device 41, The segment is blinked to indicate that it is changing. When the result of the game is “out of”, for example, the central segment is turned on as a result mode of out of game, and when the result of the game is “win”, the result of out of game (special result mode) is not. A game result is displayed with a result mode other than the result mode (for example, the numbers “3” and “7”) in a lit state.

  The normal display 53 blinks the lamp during the change and displays that the change is in progress. When the game result is “out of”, for example, the lamp is turned off, and when the game result is “hit”, the lamp is turned on to display the game result.

  The special figure 1 hold display 54 displays the number of undigested balls (starting memory number = holding number) among the number of winning balls to the start winning opening 36, which is the variation start condition of the special figure 1 display 51. For example, when the hold number is “0”, all four lamps are turned off, and when the hold number is “1”, only lamp 1 is turned on. Further, when the number of holdings is “2”, the lamps 1 and 2 are turned on, when the number of holdings is “3”, the lamps 1, 2 and 3 are turned on, and when the number of holdings is “4”, 4 is set. All the lamps 1 to 4 are turned on.

  The special figure 2 hold indicator 55 displays the start memory number (= hold number) of the second start winning opening (ordinary variable prize device 37), which is the fluctuation start condition of the special figure 2 indicator 52, and the special figure 1 hold indicator. Displayed in the same manner as 54.

  The general map hold display 56 displays the start memory number (= hold number) of the general map start gate 34 which is the variation start condition of the general map display 53. For example, when the hold number is “0”, the lamps 1 and 2 are turned off, and when the hold number is “1”, only the lamp 1 is turned on. When the number of hold is “2”, lamps 1 and 2 are turned on. When the number of hold is “3”, lamp 1 is blinked, lamp 2 is turned on, and when the number of hold is “4”. Lamps 1 and 2 are blinked.

For example, the first gaming state indicator 57 turns off the lamp in the normal gaming state, and turns on the lamp when the big hit has occurred.
For example, the second gaming state indicator 60 turns off the lamp in the normal gaming state, and turns on the lamp when the time-short state occurs.

  The error indicator 58 turns the lamp off when the jackpot probability state is low when the gaming machine 10 is turned on, and when the jackpot probability state is high when the gaming machine 10 is turned on. Turns on the lamp.

  For example, the round display unit 59 turns off the lamp in the normal gaming state, and turns on the lamp corresponding to the number of rounds (2 rounds or 15 rounds) when the big hit occurs. The round display unit 59 may be configured by a 7 segment type display.

  In the gaming machine 10 of the present embodiment, a game is played by launching a game ball (pachinko ball) from a launcher (not shown) toward the game area 32. The launched game balls flow down the game area 32 while changing the rolling direction by means of direction change members such as obstacle nails and windmills arranged at various locations in the game area 32, and the normal start gate 34 and the general winning opening 35 The winning prize opening 36, the normal variable prize winning device 37 or the special variable prize winning device 38 is won, or it flows into the out port 39 provided at the bottom of the game area 32 and is discharged from the game area. When a game ball wins the general winning opening 35, the start winning opening 36, the normal variation winning apparatus 37, or the special variable winning apparatus 38, the number of winning balls corresponding to the type of the winning opening is awarded by the payout control apparatus 200. It is discharged from the controlled dispensing unit to the upper plate 21 or the lower plate 23 of the front frame 12.

On the other hand, a gate switch 34a (see FIG. 3) including a non-contact type switch for detecting a game ball that has passed through the general diagram start gate 34 is provided in the general diagram start gate 34. When a game ball that has been driven into the area 32 passes through the usual figure start gate 34, it is detected by the gate switch 34a and a usual figure change display game is played.
In addition, the normal variation display game cannot be started, for example, the normal variation display game has already been played and the normal variation display game has not been completed, When 37 is converted to the open state and the game ball passes through the general figure start gate 34, if it is less than the upper limit of the normal figure start memory number, the general figure start memory number is added (+1) and the general figure start memory number is increased. One figure start memory is stored. The number of memorized start prizes is displayed on the memory display unit 56 for notifying the number of start prizes of the collective display device 50.
In addition, in the normal chart start memory, a random number value for hit determination for determining the hit error of the normal figure fluctuation display game is stored, and when the random number value for hit determination coincides with the determination value In addition, a specific result mode (specific result) is derived by hitting the common map fluctuation display game.

The usual map change display game is executed by a change display unit (common figure display) 53 provided in the collective display device 50. The general-purpose indicator 53 is composed of LEDs indicating normal identification information (normal diagrams, normal symbols) in the lit state and indicating misalignment in the unlit state, and the normal identification information is displayed by blinking this LED. The fluctuation display is performed, and after a predetermined fluctuation display time has elapsed, the LED is turned on or off to display the result.
Note that, for example, numbers, symbols, character designs, and the like may be used as the normal identification information, which is displayed by variably displaying for a predetermined time and then stopped. If the stop display of the usual figure variation display game is a specific result, the pair of opening and closing members 37b of the ordinary fluctuation winning device 37 is opened for a predetermined time (for example, 0.3 seconds). It becomes a state. This makes it easier for the game ball to win the second start winning opening inside the normal fluctuation winning device 37, and the number of times the second special figure changing display game is executed increases.

  When the random number value extracted at the time of detection of the passage to the general chart start gate 34 is a winning value, the normal symbol displayed on the universal chart display unit 53 stops in a winning state and enters a winning state. At this time, the normal variation winning device 37 is in a state in which the open / close member 37b is opened for a predetermined time (for example, 0.3 seconds) by driving the built-in general-purpose solenoid 37c (see FIG. 3). It is converted and the winning of the game ball is allowed.

  The winning ball to the starting winning port 36 and the winning ball to the normal variation winning device 37 are respectively detected by the starting port 1 switch 36a and the starting port 2 switch 37a provided inside. The game balls won at the start winning opening 36 are detected as the start winning balls of the first special figure variable display game, and are stored in a limit of four, and the game balls won at the normal variable prize winning device 37 are the second special figure. It is detected as the start winning ball of the variable display game and is stored up to four. In addition, when the starting winning ball is detected, a big hit random number value, a big hit symbol random number value, and each variation pattern random number value are extracted, and the extracted random number value is stored in a special figure memory in the game control device 100 (see FIG. 3). Each area (a part of the RAM) is stored as a special figure start memory for a predetermined number of times (for example, a maximum of four times). The number stored in the special figure start memory is displayed on the storage display units 54 and 55 for notifying the start winning number of the collective display device 50 and also on the display device 41 of the center case 40.

The game control device 100 uses the special figure indicator (variable display device) 51 or 52 to change the first or second special figure on the basis of the winning entry to the start winning opening 36 or the normal variable prize winning device 37 or the start memory thereof. Play a display game.
The first special figure fluctuation display game and the second special figure fluctuation display game are performed by variably displaying a plurality of special symbols (special figures, identification information) and then stopping and displaying a predetermined result form. In addition, a decorative special figure fluctuation display game for displaying a plurality of types of identification information (for example, numbers, symbols, character designs, etc.) corresponding to each special figure fluctuation display game on the display device 41 is executed. ing.
As a result of the special figure fluctuation display game, when the display mode of the special figure 1 display 51 or the special figure 2 display 52 becomes a special result mode, a special game state (so-called big hit state) ) Correspondingly, the display mode of the display device 41 is also a special result mode.

  In the decorative special symbol variation display game on the display device 41, for example, the decorative special symbol (identification information) composed of the above-described numbers is left (first special symbol), right (second special symbol), middle (third special symbol). The variation display is started in the order of symbols), the symbols that have been varied after a predetermined time are sequentially stopped, and the result of the special symbol variation display game is displayed. In addition, the display device 41 performs a variable display game with a decorative special symbol corresponding to the number of special figure starting memories, and various effect displays such as the appearance of a character are performed to improve interest.

The special figure 1 display 51 and the special figure 2 display 52 may be separate displays or the same display, but each special figure variation display is performed so as not to be executed independently or simultaneously. The game is displayed. In addition, the display device 41 may use different display devices and different display areas in the first special map variable display game and the second special map variable display game, or use the same display device and display area. However, the decoration special figure variation display game is displayed so as not to be executed independently or simultaneously. The game machine 10 may not be provided with the special figure 1 display 51 and the special figure 2 display 52, and the special figure variation display game may be executed only by the display device 41.
Further, the second special figure variation display game is executed with priority over the first special figure variation display game. That is, if there is a start memory of the first special figure fluctuation display game and the second special figure fluctuation display game, and the execution of the special figure fluctuation display game becomes possible, the second special figure fluctuation display game is It is supposed to be executed.

In addition, in the state where the first special figure fluctuation display game (second special figure fluctuation display game) can be started and the number of start memories is zero, the start winning opening 36 (or the normal fluctuation prize winning device 37) is entered. When the game ball wins, the start memory is stored as the start right is generated, the start memory number is incremented by 1, and the first special figure variation display game (second special figure) is immediately added based on the start memory. (Variable display game) is started, and at this time, the start memory number is subtracted by one.
On the other hand, a state in which the first special figure fluctuation display game (second special figure fluctuation display game) cannot be started immediately, for example, the first or second special figure fluctuation display game has already been performed, and the special figure fluctuation display game has ended. If the game ball is won in the start winning opening 36 (or the normal variable prize winning device 37) in a state that is not in the special game state or in the special game state, the start memory number is 1 if the start memory number is less than the upper limit number. By adding, one start memory is stored. Then, in a state where the starting memory number becomes 1 or more, a state in which the first special figure fluctuation display game (second special figure fluctuation display game) can be started (the end of the previous special figure fluctuation display game or the special game state) (End), the start memory number is decremented by 1, and the first special figure fluctuation display game (second special figure fluctuation display game) is started based on the stored start memory.
In the following description, when the first special figure fluctuation display game and the second special figure fluctuation display game are not distinguished, they are simply referred to as a special figure fluctuation display game.

  Although not particularly limited, the starting port 1 switch 36a in the starting winning port 36, the starting port 2 switch 37a in the normal variable winning device 37, the gate switch 34a, the general winning port switches 35a to 35n, the count The switch 38a is a non-contact type magnetic proximity sensor (hereinafter referred to as a proximity switch) that includes a magnetic detection coil and detects a game ball using a phenomenon in which a magnetic field changes when a metal approaches the coil. Has been. A micro switch having a mechanical contact is used for the front frame opening detection switch 63 provided on the glass frame 15 or the like of the gaming machine 10 or the game frame opening detection switch 64 provided on the front frame (game frame) 12 or the like. be able to.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of the control system of the pachinko gaming machine 10 according to the present embodiment.
The gaming machine 10 includes a game control device 100. The game control device 100 is a main control device (main board) for comprehensively controlling the game, and includes a CPU unit 110 having a game microcomputer (hereinafter referred to as a game microcomputer) 111 and an input port. Unit 120, an output unit 130 having an output port, a driver, and the like, a CPU unit 110, a data bus 140 for connecting the input unit 120 and the output unit 130, and the like.

  The CPU section 110 receives signals (starting winning detection signals) from a gaming microcomputer (CPU) 111 called an amusement chip (IC) and a proximity switch interface chip (proximity I / F) 121 in the input section 120. An inversion circuit 112 composed of an inverter or the like that is logically inverted and input to the gaming microcomputer 111 and an oscillator such as a crystal oscillator are provided to generate a clock for a CPU operation clock, a timer interrupt, and a random number generation circuit. An oscillation circuit (crystal oscillator) 113 is included. The game control device 100 and electronic components such as a solenoid and a motor driven by the game control device 100 are supplied with a predetermined level of DC voltage such as DC32V, DC12V, and DC5V generated by the power supply device 400 so as to be operable. Is done.

  The power supply apparatus 400 includes a normal power supply including an AC-DC converter that generates the DC 32V DC voltage from a 24V AC power source, a DC-DC converter that generates a lower level DC voltage such as DC 12V and DC 5V from the DC 32V voltage, and the like. Unit 410, backup power supply unit 420 for supplying power supply voltage to the internal RAM of gaming microcomputer 111 in the event of a power failure, and a power failure monitoring circuit and an initialization switch to inform gaming control device 100 of the occurrence and recovery of power failure A control signal generation unit 430 that generates and outputs control signals such as a power failure monitoring signal, an initialization switch signal, and a reset signal is provided.

  In this embodiment, the power supply device 400 is configured separately from the game control device 100, but the backup power supply unit 420 and the control signal generation unit 430 are integrated on a separate board or the game control device 100, that is, the main control device 100. You may comprise so that it may provide on a board | substrate. Since the game board 30 and the game control device 100 are to be replaced when the model is changed, the backup power supply unit 420 and the control signal generation unit 430 are provided on a board different from the power supply apparatus 400 or the main board as in the embodiment. By providing, it can remove from the object of replacement | exchange and can aim at cost reduction.

  The backup power supply unit 420 can be composed of one large-capacity capacitor such as an electrolytic capacitor. The backup power is supplied to the game microcomputer 111 (particularly, the built-in RAM) of the game control device 100, and the data stored in the RAM is held even during a power failure or after the power is shut off. The control signal generation unit 430 monitors the voltage of 32V generated by the normal power supply unit 410, for example, detects the occurrence of a power failure when the voltage drops below 17V, for example, changes the power failure monitoring signal, and resets the signal after a predetermined time. Is output. In addition, a reset signal is output after a predetermined time has elapsed from the time when the power is turned on or the power is restored.

  The initialization switch signal is a signal generated when the initialization switch is turned on, and forcibly initializes information stored in the RAM 111C in the gaming microcomputer 111 and the RAM in the payout control device 200. . Although not particularly limited, the initialization switch signal is read when the power is turned on, and the power failure monitoring signal is repeatedly read in the main loop of the main program executed by the gaming microcomputer 111. The reset signal is a kind of forced interrupt signal and resets the entire control system.

  The gaming microcomputer 111 includes a CPU (central processing unit: microprocessor) 111A, a read-only ROM (read-only memory) 111B, and a RAM (random access memory) 111C that can be read and written as needed.

  The ROM 111B stores invariant information (programs, fixed data, various random number judgment values, etc.) for game control in a nonvolatile manner, and the RAM 111C stores a work area for the CPU 111A and various signals and random number values during game control. Used as As the ROM 111B or the RAM 111C, an electrically rewritable nonvolatile memory such as an EEPROM may be used.

In addition, the ROM 111B stores, for example, a variation pattern table for determining a variation pattern that defines a variation mode such as the execution time of the special figure variation display game, the contents of the effects, and the presence or absence of the reach state.
The variation pattern table is a table for the CPU 111A to determine the variation pattern by referring to the variation pattern random numbers 1 to 3 stored as the start memory. Further, the fluctuation pattern table includes a loss fluctuation pattern table selected when the result is lost, a big hit fluctuation pattern table selected when the result is per 15R or 2R, and the like. Further, these pattern tables include a second half variation pattern table and a first half variation pattern table.

  Reach (reach state) has a display device whose display state can change, and the display device derives and displays a plurality of display results at different times, and the plurality of display results are predetermined. In the gaming machine 10 in which the gaming state becomes a gaming state advantageous to the player (special gaming state) when the special result mode is entered, the game is already derived at the stage where some of the plurality of display results are not yet derived and displayed. This means a display state in which the displayed display result satisfies the condition for the special result mode. In other words, the reach state is deviated from the display condition that is the special result mode even when the display device's variable display control progresses and reaches the stage before the display result is derived and displayed. There is no display mode. For example, a state where so-called full-rotation reach is performed in a variable display region while maintaining a state in which special result modes are aligned (so-called full rotation reach) is also included in the reach state. The reach state is a display state at the time when the display control of the display device has progressed to reach a stage before the display result is derived and displayed, and is determined before the display result is derived and displayed. The display state in the case where at least a part of the display results of the plurality of variable display areas satisfies the condition for the special result mode.

  Thus, for example, a decorative special figure fluctuation display game displayed on a display device corresponding to a special figure fluctuation display game fluctuates a plurality of identification information for a predetermined time in each of the left, middle, and right fluctuation display areas on the display device. After displaying, when the display of the result mode is stopped in the order of left, right, and middle, the condition that becomes the special result mode is satisfied in the left and right variable display areas (for example, The state in which the variable display is stopped with the same identification information) is the reach state. In addition to this, when the variable display of all the variable display areas is temporarily stopped, the condition that the special result mode is satisfied in any two of the left, middle, and right variable display areas (for example, the same The state in which the identification information is obtained (except for the special result mode) may be set as the reach state, and the remaining one variable display area may be variably displayed from the reach state. The reach state includes a plurality of reach effects, and normal reach, special reach, premier reach, and the like are set as reach effects that have different possibilities of different special results (with different reliability levels). The reliability increases in the order of no reach <normal reach <special reach <premier reach. In addition, this reach state is included in a variable display mode at least in a case where a special result mode is derived in a special figure variable display game (when a big hit is achieved). That is, it may be included in the variable display mode when it is determined that the special result mode is not derived in the special figure variable display game (when it is out of place). Therefore, the state in which the reach state has occurred is a state that is more likely to be a big hit than the case in which the reach state does not occur.

The CPU 111A executes a game control program in the ROM 111B, generates control signals (commands) for the payout control device 200 and the effect control device 300, and generates and outputs drive signals for the solenoid and the display device. The entire gaming machine 10 is controlled.
Although not shown, the gaming microcomputer 111 generates a jackpot determination random number for the special figure variation display game, a jackpot symbol random number for determining the jackpot symbol, a hit determination random number for the common figure variation display game, and the like. And a clock that gives a timer interrupt signal for a predetermined period (for example, 4 milliseconds) to the CPU 111A and the update timing of the random number generation circuit based on the oscillation signal (original clock signal) from the oscillation circuit 113 It has a clock generator.

  In addition, the CPU 111A selects one of a plurality of variation pattern tables stored in the ROM 111B in a start port switch monitoring process (step A1) or a special figure routine process (step A9) in a special figure game process to be described later. One fluctuation pattern table is acquired. Specifically, the CPU 111A determines the game result (big hit or miss) of the special figure fluctuation display game, the probability state (normal probability state or high probability state) of the special figure fluctuation display game as the current game state, and the current game. Based on the operation state (normal operation state or short-time operation state) of the normal variation winning device 37 as a state, the number of start memories, etc., one of the variation pattern tables is selected and acquired. To do.

  Although not shown, the payout control device 200 includes a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, an input interface, an output interface, and the like, and drives a payout motor of the payout unit in accordance with a prize ball payout command (command or data) from the game control device 100. , Control for paying out a prize ball. In addition, the payout control device 200 drives the payout motor of the payout unit based on the ball rental request signal from the card unit, and performs control for paying out the ball.

  The input unit 120 of the gaming microcomputer 111 includes a start port 1 switch 36a in the start winning port 36, a start port 2 switch 37a in the normal variation winning device 37, a gate switch 34a in the usual start gate 34, and a general winning port. An interface which is connected to the switches 35a to 35n and the count switch 38a and receives a negative logic signal such as a high level of 11V and a low level of 7V supplied from these switches, and converts it into a positive logic signal of 0V-5V. A chip (proximity I / F) 121 is provided. Proximity I / F 121 seems to be floating because the input range is 7V-11V, the lead wire of the proximity switch is improperly shorted, the switch is disconnected from the connector, or the lead wire is disconnected. An abnormal state can be detected, and an abnormality detection signal is output.

  All the outputs of the proximity I / F 121 are supplied to the second input port 122 and read into the gaming microcomputer 111 via the data bus 140, and also supplied from the main board 100 to the test firing test apparatus (not shown) via the relay board 70. It is like that. In addition, the detection signals of the start port 1 switch 36a and the start port 2 switch 37a among the outputs of the proximity I / F 121 are input to the gaming microcomputer 111 via the inverting circuit 112 in addition to the second input port 122. It is configured. The inversion circuit 112 is provided because the signal input terminal of the gaming microcomputer 111 detects that a signal from a micro switch or the like is input, and detects negative logic, that is, low level (0 V) as an effective level. Because it is designed to do.

  Therefore, when a micro switch is used as the start port 1 switch 36a and the start port 2 switch 37a, the detection signal can be directly input to the gaming microcomputer 111 without providing the inverting circuit 112. That is, when it is desired to directly input negative logic signals from the start port 1 switch 36a and the start port 2 switch 37a to the gaming microcomputer 111, the proximity switch cannot be used. As described above, the proximity I / F 121 has a signal level conversion function. In order to enable such a level conversion function, the proximity I / F 121 is supplied with a voltage of 12 V from the power supply device 400 in addition to a voltage such as 5 V required for normal IC operation. It has become.

  Further, the input unit 120 includes a button switch 25a built in the effect button 25, a magnetic sensor switch 61 for fraud detection provided on the front frame 12 of the gaming machine 10, the signal from the vibration sensor switch 62, and the proximity. Signals from the start port 1 switch 36a in the start winning port 36 converted by the I / F 121, the start port 2 switch 37a, the gate switch 34a, the general winning port switches 35a to 35n, and the count switch 38a in the normal variation winning device 37. Is input and supplied to the gaming microcomputer 111 via the data bus 140. As described above, the operation of the effect button 25 (signal from the button switch 25a) can be input to the game control device 100, whereby the special-control variable display game that is performed in the game control device 100 by the operation of the effect button 25. It is possible to intervene in control (eg, variation time). The data held by the second input port 122 is read by asserting the enable signal CE1 (changing to an effective level) by the gaming microcomputer 111 decoding the address assigned to the second input port 122. be able to. The same applies to other ports described later.

  Further, the input unit 120 receives signals and payouts from the front frame opening detection switch 63 provided on the glass frame 15 and the like of the gaming machine 10 and the game frame opening detection switch 64 provided on the front frame (game frame) 12 and the like. A status signal indicating a payout abnormality from the control device 200, a shot ball break switch signal indicating a shortage of game balls before payout, and an overflow switch signal indicating overflow are fetched and supplied to the game microcomputer 111 via the data bus 140. One input port 123 is provided. The overflow switch signal is a signal that is output when it is detected that a predetermined amount or more of game balls are stored in the lower plate 23 (full).

  Further, the input unit 120 is provided with a Schmitt trigger circuit 124 for inputting signals such as a power failure monitoring signal, an initialization switch signal, and a reset signal from the power supply device 400 to the gaming microcomputer 111 and the like. The circuit 124 has a function of removing noise from these input signals. Of the signals from the power supply device 400, the power failure monitoring signal and the initialization switch signal are once inputted to the first input port 123 and taken into the gaming microcomputer 111 via the data bus 140. That is, it is treated as a signal equivalent to the signal from the various switches described above. This is because the number of terminals receiving external signals provided in the gaming microcomputer 111 is limited.

  On the other hand, the reset signal RST from which noise has been removed by the Schmitt trigger circuit 124 is directly input to a reset terminal provided in the gaming microcomputer 111 and also supplied to each port of the output unit 130. Further, the reset signal RST is directly output to the relay board 70 without going through the output unit 130, thereby turning off the test test signal held in the port (not shown) of the relay board 70 for output to the test board. It is configured as follows. Further, the reset signal RST may be configured to be output to the test firing test apparatus via the relay board 70. The reset signal RST is not supplied to the ports 122 and 123 of the input unit 120. Data set to each port of the output unit 130 by the gaming microcomputer 111 immediately before the reset signal RST is input needs to be reset to prevent malfunction of the system, but each data of the input unit 120 is input immediately before the reset signal RST is input. This is because the data read by the gaming microcomputer 111 from the port is discarded when the gaming microcomputer 111 is reset.

  The output unit 130 is connected to the data bus 140 and outputs a 4-bit data signal output to the payout control device 200, a control signal (data strobe signal) indicating validity / invalidity of the data, and a data strobe signal SSTB output to the effect control device 300. 1 and a second output port 132 for generating an 8-bit data signal to be output to the effect control device 300. Data is transmitted from the game control device 100 to the payout control device 200 and the effect control device 300 by parallel communication. In addition, the data strobe signal from the first output port 131 is input to the output unit 130 in order to prevent a signal from being input to the game control device 100 from the side of the effect control device 300, that is, to ensure one-way communication. A unidirectional buffer 133 that outputs an 8-bit data signal from the SSTB and the second output port 132 is provided. A buffer may be provided for a signal output from the first output port 131 to the payout control device 200.

  In addition, the output unit 130 is connected to the data bus 140 via a relay board 70 to transmit data indicating special symbol information of the variable display game to a test firing test apparatus of an accredited organization (not shown) and a signal indicating the probability status of jackpot. The output buffer 134 is configured to be mountable. This buffer 134 is a component that is not mounted on a game control device (main board) of a pachinko gaming machine as an actual machine (mass production product) installed in the game store. A detection signal output from the proximity I / F 121, such as a start port switch that does not require processing, is supplied to the test firing test apparatus via the relay board 70 without passing through the buffer 134.

  On the other hand, detection signals such as the magnetic sensor switch 61 and the vibration sensor switch 62 that cannot be supplied to the test fire testing device as they are are once taken into the gaming microcomputer 111 and processed into other signals or information. An error signal indicating that the control is not possible is supplied from the data bus 140 to the trial test apparatus via the buffer 134 and the relay board 70. The relay board 70 is provided with a port that takes in the signal output from the buffer 134 and supplies it to the test test apparatus, a connector that relays and transmits a signal line of a switch detection signal that does not pass through the buffer, and the like. ing. A chip enable signal CE output from the gaming microcomputer 111 is also supplied to the port on the relay board 70, and the signal of the port selected and controlled by the signal CE is supplied to the test firing test apparatus.

  Further, the output unit 130 is connected to the data bus 140 to open a special variable winning device 38 (a solenoid for large winning opening) 38b and a solenoid (normal electric solenoid) 37c for opening an opening / closing member 37b of the normal variable winning device 37. The third output port 135 for outputting the opening / closing data of the LED and the ON / OFF data of the digit line to which the cathode terminal of the LED of the collective display device 50 is connected. A fourth output port 136 for outputting ON / OFF data of the segment line connected to the anode terminal, and a fifth output port 137 for outputting information related to the gaming machine 10 such as jackpot information to the external information terminal 71 are provided. It has been. Information relating to the gaming machine 10 output from the external information terminal 71 is supplied to, for example, an information collection terminal installed in a game store or a game hall internal management device (not shown).

  Further, the output unit 130 receives the opening / closing data signal of the big prize opening solenoid 38b output from the third output port 135, and receives the solenoid driving signal and the opening / closing data signal of the power solenoid 37c to generate the solenoid driving signal. A first driver (drive circuit) 138a for outputting, a second driver 138b for outputting an on / off drive signal for a digit line on the current drawing side of the collective display device 50 outputted from the third output port 135, and a fourth output port 136 The external information signal supplied to the external device such as the management device from the third driver 138c and the fifth output port 137 for outputting the ON / OFF drive signal of the segment line on the current supply side of the collective display device 50 output from the external information A fourth driver 138d for outputting to the terminal 71 is provided.

  The first driver 138a is supplied with DC32V from the power supply device 400 as a power supply voltage so that a solenoid operating at 32V can be driven. Also, DC12V is supplied to the third driver 138c that drives the segment lines of the collective display device 50. Since the second driver 138b for driving the digit line is for extracting the digit line corresponding to the display data with a current, the power supply voltage may be either 12V or 5V. A dynamic drive method is achieved by flowing current to the anode terminal of the LED through the segment line by the third driver 138c that outputs 12 V, and drawing the current from the cathode terminal through the segment line by the second driver 138b that outputs the ground potential. The power supply voltage flows through the LEDs sequentially selected in step 1 so as to be lit. The fourth driver 138d that outputs the external information signal to the external information terminal 71 is supplied with DC12V in order to give the external information signal a level of 12V. Note that the buffer 134, the third output port 135, the first driver 138a, and the like may be provided on the output board 130 of the game control device 100, that is, on the relay board 70 side instead of the main board.

  Further, the output unit 130 is provided with a photocoupler 139 for transmitting information such as an identification code and a program of each gaming machine to the external inspection device 500. The photocoupler 139 is configured to be capable of bi-directional communication so that the gaming microcomputer 111 can transmit and receive data to and from the inspection device 500 through serial communication. Note that such data transmission / reception is performed using a serial communication terminal of the gaming microcomputer 111 as in the case of a general general-purpose microprocessor, and therefore, ports such as the input ports 122 and 123 are not provided.

Next, the configuration of the effect control device 300 will be described with reference to FIG.
The production control device 300 includes a main control microcomputer (1st CPU) 311 composed of an amusement chip (IC) as with the game microcomputer 111, and a video control microcomputer (2nd CPU) 312 that performs video control exclusively under the control of the 1st CPU 311. , VDP (Video Display Processor) 313 as a graphic processor that performs image processing for video display on the display device 41 in accordance with commands and data from the 2nd CPU 312 and various melody and sound effects are reproduced from the speakers 19a and 19b. The sound source LSI 314 for controlling the sound output is provided.

  The main control microcomputer (1st CPU) 311 and the video control microcomputer (2nd CPU) 312 are connected to program ROMs 321 and 322 each composed of a PROM (programmable read only memory) storing a program executed by each CPU. Is connected to an image ROM 323 storing character images and video data, and a sound ROM 324 storing sound data is connected to the sound source LSI 314. The main control microcomputer (1st CPU) 311 analyzes the command from the game microcomputer 111, decides the contents of the presentation, instructs the video control microcomputer 312 about the contents of the output video, and instructs the sound source LSI 314 about the reproduced sound. Executes processes such as lighting of decoration lamps, motor drive control, and production time management. RAMs that provide work areas for the main control microcomputer (1st CPU) 311 and the video control microcomputer (2nd CPU) 312 are provided in the respective chips. Note that the RAM that provides the work area may be provided outside the chip.

  Although not particularly limited, the main control microcomputer (1stCPU) 311 and the video control microcomputer (2ndCPU) 312 and the main control microcomputer (1stCPU) 311 and the sound source LSI 314 are serially connected. Data transmission / reception is performed, and data transmission / reception is performed in parallel with the video control microcomputer (2ndCPU) 312 and between the main control microcomputer (1stCPU) 311 and the VDP 313. By transmitting and receiving data in parallel, commands and data can be transmitted in a shorter time than in the case of serial. The VDP 313 includes an ultra-high speed VRAM (video RAM) 313a used for developing and processing image data such as characters read from the image ROM 323, and a scaler for enlarging and reducing images. 313b, a signal conversion circuit 313c that generates a video signal to be transmitted to the display device 41 by an LVDS (small amplitude signal transmission) method, and the like are provided.

  A vertical synchronization signal VSYNC is input from the VDP 313 to the main control microcomputer 311 in order to synchronize the image of the display device 41 and the lighting of the decorative lamps provided on the front frame 12 and the game board 30. In addition, the VDP 313 notifies the video control microcomputer 312 that it is waiting to receive an interrupt signal INT0-n and a command or data from the video control microcomputer 312 in order to notify the processing status such as the end of drawing in the VRAM. A wait signal WAIT is input. Further, the video control microcomputer 312 receives from the main control microcomputer 311 a synchronization signal SYNC that informs that the video control microcomputer 312 is operating normally and gives command transmission timing. A call signal CTS and a response signal RTS are exchanged between the main control microcomputer 311 and the tone generator LSI 314 in order to transmit and receive commands and data in the handshake method.

  Note that the video control microcomputer (2ndCPU) 312 uses a CPU that is faster or more expensive than the main control microcomputer (1stCPU) 311. By providing a video control microcomputer (2ndCPU) 312 separately from the main control microcomputer (1stCPU) 311 and sharing the processing, it is possible to display a fast moving image on a large screen that is difficult to achieve with the main control microcomputer (1stCPU) 311 alone. It is possible to display on the display device 41, and it is possible to suppress an increase in cost compared to the case where two CPUs having processing capabilities equivalent to the video control microcomputer (2nd CPU) 312 are used. Also, by providing two CPUs, it becomes possible to separately develop the control programs for the two CPUs in parallel, thereby shortening the development period of the new model.

  In addition, the effect control device 300 is provided with an interface chip (command I / F) 331 that receives a command transmitted from the game control device 100. A variation start command, a customer waiting demo command, a fanfare command, a probability information command, an error designation command, and the like transmitted from the game control device 100 to the effect control device 300 via the command I / F 331 are used as an effect control command signal. Receive. Since the game microcomputer 111 of the game control device 100 operates at DC 5V and the main control microcomputer (1st CPU) 311 of the effect control device 300 operates at DC 3.3V, the command I / F 331 has a signal level conversion function. Is provided.

  The effect control device 300 includes a panel decoration LED control circuit 332 for driving and controlling a panel decoration device 42 having LEDs (light emitting diodes) provided on the game board 30 (including the center case 40), and the front frame 12. Frame decoration LED control circuit 333 for driving and controlling a frame decoration device (for example, the frame decoration device 18 and the like) having LEDs (light emitting diodes) and board effects provided on the game board 30 (including the center case 40). A board effect motor / SOL control circuit 334 for driving and controlling a device (for example, an electric accessory that enhances effect effects in cooperation with effect display on the display device 41), and a motor (for example, a moving light) provided on the front frame 12. A frame effect motor control circuit 335 for driving and controlling the motor 45 is provided. Note that these control circuits 332 to 335 that drive and control lamps, motors, solenoids, and the like are connected to a main control microcomputer (1st CPU) 311 via an address / data bus 304.

Further, the effect control device 300 includes an effect motor switch 43a that detects an initial position of a button switch 25a built in the effect button 25 provided on the front frame 12 or a motor (not shown) in the panel effect device 44. A switch input circuit 336 is provided for detecting the on / off state of the main control microcomputer and inputting a detection signal to the main control microcomputer (1st CPU) 311. That is, the operation of the effect button 25 by the player can also be input to the effect control device 300. Further, an amplifier circuit 337a including an audio power amplifier that drives the upper speaker 19a provided on the front frame 12 and an amplifier circuit 337b that drives the lower speaker 19b provided on the front frame 12 are provided.
The detection signal from the button switch 25a is input only to the game control device 100, and a signal notifying that the detection signal is input from the game control device 100 to the effect control device 300 is sent instead of the detection signal. Good.

  The normal power supply unit 410 of the power supply apparatus 400 drives a motor or a solenoid to supply a desired level of DC voltage to the effect control apparatus 300 having the above-described configuration and electronic components controlled thereby. DC32V for driving the display device 41 composed of a liquid crystal panel, DC5V serving as the power supply voltage for the command I / F 331, DC18V for driving the LED and speaker, and a reference for these DC voltages It is configured to generate a voltage of NDC 24V used for lighting a monitor lamp. Further, when an LSI that operates at a low voltage such as 3.3 V or 1.2 V is used as the main control microcomputer (1st CPU) 311 or the video control microcomputer (2nd CPU) 312, DC 3. The effect control device 300 is provided with a DC-DC converter for generating 3V or DC 1.2V. The DC-DC converter may be provided in the normal power supply unit 410.

  The reset signal RST generated by the control signal generation unit 430 of the power supply apparatus 400 includes a main control microcomputer 311, a video control microcomputer 312, a VDP 313, a sound source LSI 314, control circuits 332 to 335 for driving and controlling lamps and motors, speakers, and the like. Are supplied to the amplifier circuits 337a and 337b, which are in a reset state. In this embodiment, a general-purpose port of the video control microcomputer 312 is used to generate and supply a reset signal to the VDP 313. Thereby, the cooperation of the operations of the video control microcomputer 312 and the VDP 313 can be improved.

Next, game control performed in these control circuits will be described.
The CPU 111A of the game microcomputer 111 of the game control device 100 extracts a random number for determining the hit of the usual figure based on the input of the detection signal of the game ball from the gate switch 34a provided in the usual figure start gate 34, and the ROM 111B. Is compared with the determination value stored in, and a process for determining whether or not the normal-game fluctuation display game is hit is performed. Then, after the identification symbol is variably displayed for a predetermined time on the general symbol display 53, a processing for displaying a general symbol variation display game to be stopped is performed. When the result of the normal map variation display game is a win, a special result mode is displayed on the general map display 53, the general electric solenoid 37c is operated, and the opening / closing members 37b and 37b of the normal variable prize winning device 37 are set in advance. Time (for example, 0.3 seconds) is controlled to be released as described above. In addition, when the result of the normal map change display game is out of order, control is performed on the general map display 53 to display the result form of the shift.

Further, a start winning (starting memory) is stored based on an input of a detection signal of a game ball from a starting port 1 switch 36a provided in the starting winning port 36, and based on this start memory, the first special figure variation display game is stored. The random number value for jackpot determination is extracted and compared with the determination value stored in the ROM 111B, and a process for determining whether or not the first special figure variation display game is missed is performed.
In addition, the start memory is stored based on the input of the detection signal of the game ball from the start port 2 switch 37a provided in the normal variation winning device 37, and based on this start memory, for the big hit determination of the second special figure variable display game A random number value is extracted and compared with a determination value stored in the ROM 111B, and a process of determining whether or not the second special figure variation display game is missed is performed.

  Then, the CPU 111 </ b> A of the game control device 100 outputs a control signal (effect control command) including the determination results of the first special figure variation display game and the second special figure variation display game to the effect control device 300. Then, after the identification symbol is variably displayed for a predetermined time on the special figure 1 display 51 or the special figure 2 display 52, a process for displaying a special figure fluctuation display game to be stopped is performed.

Based on the control signal from the game control device 100, the effect control device 300 performs a process of displaying a decoration special figure variation display game corresponding to the special figure variation display game on the display device 41. The effect control device 300 causes the display device 41 to display an effect image corresponding to the variation pattern set by the game control device 100 when executing the decoration special figure variation display game. In the decorative special figure variation display game, an effect (button effect) for changing the display content of the display device 41 in accordance with an input from the effect button 25 can be executed.
Furthermore, in the production control device 300, based on the control signal from the game control device 100, the sound output from the speakers 19a and 19b, the process of controlling the light emission of various LEDs, and the like are performed.

Then, the CPU 111A of the game control device 100 displays the special result mode on the special figure 1 display 51 or the special figure 2 display 52 and generates a special game state when the result of the special figure variation display game is successful. To perform the process.
In the process of generating the special game state, the CPU 111A performs control for allowing the game ball to flow into the special winning opening by, for example, opening the open / close door 38c of the special variable winning apparatus 38 by the special winning opening solenoid 38b. .
Then, a condition that either a predetermined number (for example, 10) of game balls wins the grand prize opening or a predetermined time (for example, 25 seconds or 1 second) elapses from the opening of the big prize opening is achieved. Opening the grand prize opening until one is made is defined as one round, and control (cycle game) is performed to continue (repeat) this for a predetermined number of rounds (for example, 15 times or 2 times).
Further, when the result of the special figure variation display game is out of order, the special figure 1 display 51 and the special figure 2 display 52 are controlled to display the result form of the deviation.

  In addition, the game control device 100 can generate a probability change state as a game state after the special game state ends based on the result mode of the special figure variation display game. This probability variation state is a state (high probability state) in which the probability of a hit result in the special figure variation display game is higher than the normal probability state. In addition, the first special figure variation display game and the second special figure variation display game, regardless of which one of the first special figure variation display game and the second special figure variation display game results in a certain variation state. Both display games are in a probable state.

In addition, the game control device 100 can generate a short time state as a game state after the special game state is ended based on the result mode of the special figure variation display game.
In this time-short state, control is performed so that the normal-variation display game and the normal variation winning device 37 are in the time-short operation state. Specifically, in the short-time state, the execution time of the above-described usual-variable display game is controlled to be a second variable display time shorter than the first variable display time (for example, 10 seconds is 1 second). Thus, the number of times of opening of the normal variation winning device 37 per unit time is controlled to be substantially increased. Further, in the short time state, when the normal variation winning device 37 is released as a result of the normal variation display game being won, the release time becomes a second release time longer than the first release time in the normal state. (For example, 0.3 seconds is 1.7 seconds). In the short-time state, the number of times of opening of the normal variation winning device 37 is not the first opening number of one time but a plurality of times of two or more times (for example, (3 times) the second number of times of opening.
It should be noted that the execution time of the normal variation display game is set to the second variation display time (for example, 1 second), and the release mode of the normal variation winning device 37 is the second release time (for example, 1.7). Second), and the number of times of opening with respect to one hit result of the normal variation display game is the second number of times of opening (for example, 3 times), either one or both may be performed. May be. In the short-time operation state, control may be performed so that the probability of a hit result of the normal-variable display game is higher than that in the normal operation state.
As a result, the game ball can easily win the normal variation winning device 37, and the second special figure variation display game can be easily started.

  In addition, the time variation operation state of the probability variation state, the normal variation display game, and the normal variation prize winning device 37 can be generated independently, and both can be generated at the same time, or only one can be generated. Is possible.

Next, the control executed by the game microcomputer (game microcomputer) 111 of the game control apparatus 100 will be described.
Control processing by the gaming microcomputer 111 mainly includes main processing shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 and timer interrupt processing shown in FIG. 7 performed at a predetermined time period (for example, 4 msec).

[Main processing]
First, the main process will be described.
The main process is started when the power is turned on. In this main process, as shown in FIG. 5, an interrupt vector setting process (step S1) for setting a jump destination vector address to be executed when an interrupt occurs is first performed after an interrupt prohibition process (step S1). S2), a stack pointer setting process (step S3) for setting a stack pointer that is the start address of an area in which a value of a register or the like is saved when an interrupt occurs, and an interrupt mode setting process (step S4) for setting an interrupt processing mode. )I do.

  Next, in order to wait for the program of the payout control apparatus (payout board) 200 to start up normally, for example, a time of 4 msec is waited (step S5). As a result, when the power is turned on, the game control device 100 rises first and sends the command to the payout control device 200 before the payout control device 200 starts up, thereby avoiding the payout control device 200 from losing the command. be able to. Thereafter, access to a readable / writable RWM (read / write memory) such as a RAM or EEPROM is permitted, and all output ports are set to off (no output) (steps S6 and S7). In addition, the serial port ((port previously installed in the gaming microcomputer 111) is not used in this embodiment because it is in parallel communication with the payout control device 200 and the effect control device 300). Processing is performed (step S8).

  Subsequently, it is determined whether or not the initialization switch in the power supply apparatus 400 is ON (step S9). Here, if it is determined that the initialization switch is OFF (step S9; No), in step S10, the data value of the power failure inspection region 1 is checked among the power failure inspection regions provided in the RWM (step S10). ), It is determined whether or not the value of the power failure inspection area 1 is the normal power failure inspection area check data 1 (step S11). If it is determined in step S11 that the value of the power outage inspection area 1 is normal power outage inspection area check data 1 (step S11; Yes), the value of the data in the power outage inspection area 2 is checked (step S12), It is determined whether or not the value of the power failure inspection area 2 is normal power failure inspection area check data 2 (step S13). If it is determined in step S13 that the value of the power failure inspection area 2 is normal power interruption inspection area check data 2 (step S13; Yes), a process of calculating data called a checksum (step S14) is performed. The calculated checksum is compared with the checksum when the power is turned off (step S15), and it is determined whether or not the values match (step S16).

  If it is determined in step S9 that the initialization switch is ON (step S9; Yes), if it is determined in step S11 that the value of the power failure inspection area 1 is not normal (step S11; No), the power failure inspection area is determined in step S13. If it is determined that the value of 2 is not normal (step S13; No), or if it is determined in step S16 that the checksums do not match (step S16; No), the process jumps to step S24 in FIG.

  If it is determined in step S16 that the checksums match (step S16; Yes), the process proceeds to step S17 in FIG. 6 to clear all power failure inspection areas (step S17). After performing the clearing process (step S18), the area related to the error or fraud monitoring is reset (step S19). Next, an area for storing the gaming state in the RWM is examined to determine whether or not the gaming state is a high probability state (step S20). If it is determined that the probability is not high (step S20; No), steps S21 and S22 are skipped and the process proceeds to step S23.

  If it is determined in step S20 that there is a high probability (step S20; Yes), the ON information is saved in the high-probability notification flag area (step S21), and then the high information provided in the collective display device 50, for example. The ON data for turning on (lighting) the probability notification LED (error indicator) is saved in the area (fourth output port 136) corresponding to the segment (step S22), and the process proceeds to step S23. In step S23, a power failure recovery command corresponding to the special figure game process number is transmitted, and the process proceeds to step S29.

  On the other hand, when jumping from step S9, S11, S13, S16 to step S24, first, the process of clearing all work areas before the access prohibited area in the RAM used by the CPU 111A (step S24), the access prohibited area After the process of clearing all subsequent stack areas (step S25), the initial value at power-on is saved in the area to be initialized (step S26). Then, a time value for outputting the external information related to clearing the RWM is set (step S27), a process of transmitting a power-on command to the effect control device 300 (step S28) is performed, and the process proceeds to step S29. move on.

In step S29, a process of starting a CTC (Counter / Timer Circuit) circuit that generates a timer interrupt signal and a random number update trigger signal (CTC) in the gaming microcomputer 111 (clock generator) is performed.
The CTC circuit is provided in a clock generator in the gaming microcomputer 111. The clock generator divides the oscillation signal (original clock signal) from the crystal oscillator 113, a timer interrupt signal and a random number having a predetermined period (for example, 4 ms) to the CPU 111A based on the divided signal. And a CTC circuit that generates a signal CTC that gives a trigger for updating a random number to be supplied to the generation circuit.

  After the CTC activation process in step S29, a process for activating and setting the random number generation circuit is performed (step S30). Specifically, the CPU 111A performs setting of a code (specified value) for starting the random number generation circuit in a predetermined register (CTC update permission register) in the random number generation circuit. Then, the values of the predetermined registers (soft random number registers 1 to n) in the random number generation circuit at the time of power-on are changed to various initial value random numbers (random numbers for determining the big hit symbol (big hit symbol random number 1, big hit symbol random number 2) After saving the initial value (start value) of a random number for determining the hit of the usual figure (start value) in a predetermined area of the RWM (step S31), the interruption is permitted (step S32). In the random number generation circuit in the CPU 111A used in the present embodiment, since the initial value of the soft random number register is changed every time the power is turned on, this value is the initial value of various initial value random numbers generated on the CPU side. By setting (start value), it is possible to break the regularity of random numbers generated by software, making it difficult for a player to obtain illegal random numbers.

  Subsequently, initial value random number update processing (step S33) is performed to update the values of various initial value random numbers to break the regularity of the random numbers. In the present embodiment, although not particularly limited, the big hit random number is configured to be generated using a random number (big hit random number) generated in a random number generation circuit. That is, the big hit random number is a hard random number generated by hardware, and the big hit symbol random number is a soft random number generated by software.

  After the initial value random number update process in step S33, the number of times that the power failure monitoring signal is checked is set (step S34). Then, the power failure monitoring signal input from the power supply device 400 is read and checked via the port and the data bus, and it is determined whether or not the power failure monitoring signal is ON (step S35). If it is determined in step S35 that the power failure monitoring signal is not ON (step S35; No), the process returns to step S33, and the initial value random number update processing and the power failure monitoring signal check (loop processing) are repeated. By permitting an interrupt before the initial value random number update process (step S33) (step S32), if a timer interrupt occurs during the initial value random number update process, the interrupt process is executed with priority, and the timer interrupt Can be prevented from being interrupted by waiting for the initial value random number update process.

  Note that the initial value random number update process in step S33 includes a method of performing an initial value random number update process in the timer interrupt process in addition to the main process. In order to avoid execution of value random number update processing, when performing initial value random number update processing in the main processing, it is necessary to disable interrupt and then update to cancel the interrupt. If the initial value random number update process in the timer interrupt process is not performed in the main process and only the main process is performed, there is no problem even if the interrupt is canceled before the initial value random number update process. There is an advantage that it is simplified.

  If it is determined in step S35 that the power failure monitoring signal is ON (step S35; Yes), it is determined whether or not ON is continued for the set number of checks (step S36). And when it determines with not having been continued (step S36; No), it returns to step S35 and repeats determination (loop process) of whether the power failure generate | occur | produced. If it is determined in step S36 that the operation has been continued (step S36; Yes), that is, if it is determined that a power failure has occurred, processing for temporarily prohibiting interruption (step S37), all output ports are turned OFF. A process of outputting data (step S38) is performed. Thereafter, a process for saving the power failure recovery inspection area check data 1 in the power failure recovery inspection area 1 (step S39), a process for saving the power failure recovery inspection area check data 2 in the power failure recovery inspection area 2 (step S40), and the power supply of the RWM After the process of calculating the checksum at the time of blocking (step S41), the calculated checksum is saved in the checksum area (step S42), and the process of prohibiting access to the RWM (step S43) is performed. And wait for the power to the gaming machine to be cut off. Thus, by saving the check data in the power failure recovery inspection area and calculating the checksum at the time of power interruption, the information stored in the RWM before the power interruption of the gaming machine 10 due to the power failure or the like is correct. Whether or not the game machine 10 is backed up can be determined when the gaming machine 10 is turned on again.

[Timer interrupt processing]
Next, timer interrupt processing will be described.
The timer interrupt process is started when a periodic timer interrupt signal generated by the CTC circuit in the clock generator is input to the CPU 111A. When a timer interrupt occurs in the gaming microcomputer 111A, the timer interrupt process of FIG. 7 is started.

  When the timer interrupt process is started, a register saving process (step S51) is performed in which a value held in a predetermined register is first transferred to the RWM. In the Z80 microcomputer used as the gaming microcomputer in this embodiment, the processing can be replaced by saving the value held in the front register to the back register. Next, an input process (step S52) for taking in inputs from various sensors (start port 1 switch 36a, start port 2 switch 37a, usual gate switch 34a, count switch 38a, etc.), that is, reading the state of each input port. )I do. Then, based on the output data set in various processes, an output process (step S53) for performing drive control of an actuator such as a solenoid (large winning opening SOL38b, general electric power SOL37c) and the like is performed.

  Next, a command transmission process (step S54), a random number update process 1 (step S55), and a random number update process 2 (step S56) is performed. Thereafter, it is monitored whether a normal signal is input from the start port 1 switch 36a, the start port 2 switch 37a, the usual gate switch 34a, the winning port switch 35a... 35n, and the count switch 38a. A prize opening switch / error monitoring process (step S57) is performed to determine whether the front frame or the glass frame is open. And the special figure game process (step S58) which performs the process regarding a special figure fluctuation display game, and the fluctuation shortening effect selection process (step S59) which performs the process for making a fluctuation shortening effect (detailed later) into an executable state are performed. . The details of the special figure game process and the fluctuation shortening effect selection process will be described later.

  Next, a universal game process (step S60) for performing a process related to the universal map display game is performed. Then, a segment LED editing process (step S61), which is provided in the gaming machine 10 and drives a segment LED that displays various types of information related to display of special figure fluctuation games and games, a magnetic sensor switch 61, A magnetic error monitoring process (step S62) for checking the detection signal from the vibration sensor switch 62 to determine whether there is an abnormality is performed. Then, external information editing processing (step S63) for setting signals to be output to various external devices in the output buffer is performed. Subsequently, processing for clearing the interrupt request and declaring the end of the interrupt (step S64) is performed, processing for restoring the register data saved in step S51 (step S65), and processing for permitting an interrupt (step S65). Step S66) is performed, and the timer interrupt process is terminated.

[Special Figure Game Processing]
Next, details of the special game process (step S58) in the above-described timer interrupt process will be described.
In the special figure game process, the input of the start port 1 switch 36a and the start port 2 switch 37a is monitored, the entire process related to the special figure variation display game is controlled, and the special figure display is set.

As shown in FIG. 8, in the special figure game process, first, a start switch monitoring process (step A1) for monitoring winning of the start port 1 switch 36a and the start port 2 switch 37a is performed.
In the start port switch monitoring process, when a game ball is won in the normal variable winning device 37 that forms the start winning port 36 and the second starting winning port, various random numbers (such as jackpot random numbers) are extracted and Prior to the start of the figure variation display game, a game result preliminary determination is performed in which a game result based on a prize is determined in advance. The details of the start port switch monitoring process will be described later.

Next, a count switch monitoring process (step A2) is performed. In this count switch monitoring process, a process of monitoring the count number of the count switch 38a provided in the special variation winning device 38 is performed. Next, the special figure game process timer is updated (-1) to check whether or not the game process timer has expired (step A3), and the special figure game process timer has expired (step A4; If the determination is Yes), a special figure game sequence branch table to be referred to for branching to a process corresponding to the special figure game process number is set in the register (step A5), and the special figure game is used using the table. A process (step A6) of acquiring a branch destination address of the process corresponding to the process number is performed.
Then, after performing the process of saving the return address after the branch process to the stack area (step A7), the game branch process (step A8) is performed according to the special figure game process number.

If the special figure game process number is “0” in step A8, the fluctuation start of the special figure fluctuation display game is monitored, the fluctuation start setting of the special figure fluctuation display game, the setting of the production, A special figure routine process (step A9) for setting information necessary for the process is performed. Details of this special figure routine processing will be described later.
In step A8, when the special figure game process number is “1”, the special figure change for setting the special figure stop display time, setting the information necessary for performing the special figure display process, etc. Medium processing (step A10) is performed. Details of the special figure changing process will be described later.
In step A8, when the special figure game process number is “2”, if the game result of the special figure fluctuation display game is a big hit, the fanfare command is set according to the big hit type (2R big hit or 15R big hit). In addition, special chart display processing (step A11) for setting fanfare time according to the big winning opening opening pattern of each big hit (2R big hit or 15R big hit), setting information necessary for performing fanfare / interval processing, etc. )I do.

If the special figure game process number is “3” in step A8, setting of the opening time of the big prize opening, updating of the number of times of opening, setting of information necessary for performing the processing during opening of the big prize opening, etc. The fanfare / interval processing (step A12) is performed.
In step A8, when the special figure game process number is “4”, if the big hit round is not the final round, an interval command is set, whereas if it is the final round, a process for setting a big hit end screen command is set. Then, a special winning opening opening process (step A13) for setting information necessary for the special winning opening remaining ball processing is performed.

In step A8, if the special figure game process number is “5”, if the big hit round is the final round, a process for setting the time for discharging the remaining balls in the big prize opening, The big winning opening remaining ball processing (step A14) for setting information necessary for processing is performed.
If the special figure game process number is “6” in step A8, a big hit end process (step A15) for setting information necessary for performing the special figure normal process (step A9) is performed.
In addition, when the special figure game process number is “7” in step A8, a change time change process (step A16) is performed for reducing the set change time when the change reduction effect is to be performed. Do. Details of the variation shortening effect and the variation time changing process will be described later.

Then, after preparing the table for controlling the fluctuation | variation of the special figure 1 indicator 51 (step A17), the symbol fluctuation | variation control process (step A18) which concerns on the special figure 1 indicator 51 is performed. Then, after preparing the table for controlling the fluctuation | variation of the special figure 2 indicator 52 (step A19), the symbol fluctuation control process (step A20) which concerns on the special figure 2 indicator 52 is performed, and a special figure game process is complete | finished. To do.
If it is determined in step A4 that the special figure game process timer has not expired (step A4; No), the process proceeds to step A17, and the subsequent processes are performed.

[Starter switch monitoring process]
Next, details of the start port switch monitoring process (step A1) in the above-described special figure game process will be described.
As shown in FIG. 9, in the start port switch monitoring process, first, after preparing a table for setting information on hold by the start winning port 36 (first start port) (step A111), the special-purpose start port switch common process is performed. (Step A112) is performed. The details of the special figure start port switch common process will be described later together with the special figure start port switch common process in step A117.

Next, it is checked whether or not the ordinary electric accessory (ordinary variation winning device 37) is in operation, that is, whether or not the ordinary variation winning device 37 is activated and the game ball can be won. (Step A113) If it is determined that the ordinary electric accessory is operating (Step A113; Yes), the process proceeds to Step A116, and the subsequent processes are performed. On the other hand, if it is determined in step A113 that the ordinary electric accessory is not in operation (step A113; No), it is checked whether the number of fraudulent winnings to the normal variation winning device 37 is equal to or greater than the fraud occurrence determination number (step A114), processing for determining whether or not the number of fraudulent winnings is equal to or greater than the number of fraud occurrence determination (step A115).
The normal variation winning device 37 cannot win a game ball in the closed state, and can win a game ball only in the open state. Therefore, when the game ball wins in the closed state, it is a case where some abnormality or fraud has occurred. When there is a game ball won in such a closed state, the number is counted as the number of illegal wins. Then, it is determined whether or not the number of illegal winnings thus counted is equal to or greater than a predetermined fraud occurrence determination number (upper limit value).

If it is determined in step A115 that the number of fraudulent winnings is not equal to or greater than the number of fraud determinations (step A115; No), a table for setting information on hold by the normal variable winning device 37 (start port 2) is prepared (step A116). Then, the common start port switch common process (step A117) is performed, and the start port switch monitoring process is terminated.
If it is determined in step A115 that the number of illegal winnings is equal to or greater than the number of fraud determinations (step A115; Yes), the start port switch monitoring process is terminated. That is, the second start memory is not generated any more.

[Special figure start port switch common processing]
Next, details of the special start port switch common process (steps A112 and A117) in the start port switch monitoring process described above will be described.
The special figure start port switch common process is a process performed in common for each input when there is an input from the start port 1 switch 36a or the start port 2 switch 37a.

  As shown in FIG. 10, in the special drawing start port switch common processing, first, of the start port 1 switch 36a and the start port 2 switch 37a, an input is made to the start port switch to be monitored (for example, the start port 1 switch 36a). Is checked (step A201), and if it is determined that there is no input to the monitored start port switch (step A202; No), the special-purpose start port switch common process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined in step A202 that there is an input to the monitored start port switch (step A202; Yes), after saving the start port winning flag of the monitored start port switch (step A203), the big hit random number Is loaded (a jackpot random number is extracted) (step A204).

  Subsequently, of the start port 1 switch 36a and the start port 2 switch 37a, information regarding the number of winnings to the start port switch to be monitored (for example, the start port 1 switch 36a) is sent to the management device outside the gaming machine 10. On the other hand, the number of times output (starting port signal control output number) is loaded (step A205). Then, the loaded value is updated (+1), it is checked whether or not the output count overflows (step A206), and if it is determined that the output count does not overflow (step A207; No), the updated value is set to RWM. Is saved in the start port signal output frequency area (step A208), and the process proceeds to step A209. On the other hand, if it is determined in step A207 that the number of outputs does not overflow (step A207; Yes), the process proceeds to step A209.

  Then, in step A209, among the start port 1 switch 36a and the start port 2 switch 37a, the update target special figure holding corresponding to the monitored start port switch (for example, the start port 1 switch 36a, etc.) is held (start memory). It is checked whether or not the number is less than the upper limit value (step A209), and processing for determining whether or not the special figure holding number is less than the upper limit value (step A210) is performed.

If it is determined in step A210 that the number of special figure hold is less than the upper limit (step A210; Yes), a process for updating (+1) the number of special figure hold to be updated (for example, the special figure 1 hold number) ( Step A211) is performed.
Then, after preparing the decoration special figure reservation number command (MODE) of the start port switch to be monitored (for example, the start port 1 switch 36a) of the start port 1 switch 36a and the start port 2 switch 37a (step A212). ), A special figure reservation number command (ACTION) corresponding to the special figure hold number is prepared (step A213), and a command setting process (step A214) is performed. Thereafter, a process of calculating the address of the random number saving area corresponding to the special figure hold number (step A215) is performed.

  Then, the big hit random number is saved in the random number saving area of the RWM (step A216), and the big hit symbol random number corresponding to the start port switch to be monitored is loaded (extracted) out of the start port 1 switch 36a and the start port 2 switch 37a. Prepare (Step A217). The loaded jackpot symbol random number is saved in the RWM jackpot symbol random number saving area (step A218). Next, the corresponding variation pattern random number 1 is loaded (extracted), the loaded value is saved in the variation pattern random number 1 save area of the RWM (step A219), and then the corresponding variation pattern random number 2 is loaded (extracted). The loaded value is saved in the RWM fluctuation pattern random number 2 save area (step A220), the corresponding fluctuation pattern random number 3 is loaded (extracted), and the loaded value is saved in the RWM fluctuation pattern random number 3 Save in the area (step A221). Then, a special figure hold information determination process (step A222) is performed, and the special figure start port switch common process is terminated.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step A210 that the special figure hold number is not less than the upper limit (step A210; No), it is checked whether or not the input of the start port switch according to step A202 is the input of the start port 1 switch 36a. (Step A223), if it is determined that the input of the start port 1 switch 36a is (step A224; Yes), a decoration special figure hold number command (overflow command) is prepared (step A225), and command setting processing (step A226) ) To complete the special figure start port switch common process.
On the other hand, when it is determined in step A224 that the input of the start port 1 switch 36a is not input (step A224; No), the special drawing start port switch common process is terminated.

  A set of various random numbers saved in steps A216 and A218 to A221 becomes one start-up memory. If this process is performed based on winning at the start winning opening 36, the various random numbers are stored in the first start memory, and if performed on the basis of winning in the normal variation winning device 37, the second starting memory is stored. In other words, the game control device 100 executes these processes, whereby a random number acquired based on the winning of a game ball in the start winning area can be stored as a start memory within a predetermined number range. It will function as a storage means.

[Special figure hold information judgment processing]
Next, details of the special figure hold information determination process (step A222) in the above-described start port switch common process will be described.
The special figure hold information determination process is a prefetching process for determining the result related information corresponding to the start memory before the start timing of the special figure variation display game based on the corresponding start memory.

As shown in FIG. 11, in the special figure hold information determination process, first, it is checked whether or not a condition for executing the prefetch effect is satisfied (step A231).
Here, “the condition under which the pre-reading effect may be executed” is that the input of the start port switch according to step A202 of the special-purpose start port switch common process is the input of the start port 2 switch 37a, or the start port switch Is the input of the start port 1 switch 36a, the opening extension function of the normally variable winning device 37 is not in operation, that is, the normally variable winning device 37 is not being supported (during the short-time operation state), and It means that it is not in big hit. In other words, when the input of the start port switch according to step A202 of the special figure start port switch common processing is the start port 2 switch 37a, the start is performed regardless of whether the normal variation winning device 37 is being supported or the big hit. A prefetching process for determining the result related information corresponding to the storage is performed.

And in step A232, when the conditions which may perform a prefetch effect are not satisfy | filled (step A232; No), a special figure holding | maintenance information determination process is complete | finished.
On the other hand, when the conditions for executing the pre-reading effect are satisfied (step A232; Yes), a big hit determination process (step A233) is performed. In the jackpot determination process, it is determined whether or not the result of the special figure variation display game based on the start memory is a big hit, using a random number for determining the jackpot stored as the start memory.

When the determination result of the big hit determination process in step A233 is a big hit (step A234; Yes), a big hit symbol random number check table corresponding to the starter switch to be monitored is set (step A235), and the big hit symbol random number Are checked, the corresponding jackpot information table is acquired, set (step A236), and the process proceeds to step A238.
On the other hand, when the determination result of the big hit determination process in step A234 is not a big hit (step A234; No), a loss information table is set (step A237), and the process proceeds to step A238.

  Subsequently, in step A238, symbol information is acquired from the set information table (a jackpot information table or a loss information table), and the acquired symbol information is saved in the symbol information (work) area (step A238). Next, the start opening winning effect symbol command is acquired from the set information table, and the acquired starting opening winning effect symbol command is saved in the winning effect symbol command area (step A239).

Subsequently, a start port winning flag of the start port switch to be monitored is prepared (step A240), a start port winning effect command setting table to be monitored is prepared (step A241), and special figure information setting processing (step A242). Second half variation pattern setting processing (step A243) and variation pattern setting processing (step A244) are performed.
Then, a start opening prize effect command (MODE: game result information) corresponding to the first half variation number is calculated and prepared (step A245), and the value of the second half variation number is used as a start opening prize effect command (ACTION: game result information). Prepare (step A246) and perform command setting processing (step A247).
Subsequently, a start opening winning effect design command (game result information) is loaded and prepared (step A248), a command setting process (step A249) is performed, and the special figure holding information determination process is terminated.

[Special figure routine processing]
Next, the details of the special figure routine process (step A9) in the special figure game process described above will be described.
As shown in FIG. 12, in the special figure routine processing, first, it is checked whether or not the second special figure holding number (second starting memory number) is 0 (step A301).
When it is determined that the second special figure hold number is 0 (step A302; Yes), it is checked whether or not the first start memory number (first special figure hold number) is 0 (step A303).
If it is determined that the number of first special figure hold is 0 (step A304; Yes), it is checked whether the customer waiting demo has already started (step A305), and the customer waiting demo has not started. That is, if it is determined that the process has not been started (step A306; No), a process of setting the customer waiting demo flag during the customer waiting demo (step A307) is performed.

Subsequently, a customer waiting demonstration command is prepared (step A308), and command setting processing (step A309) is performed.
On the other hand, if it is determined in step A305 that the customer waiting demo has already started (step A306; Yes), the customer waiting demo flag is already set during the customer waiting demo (step A307), and the customer waiting demo command is also prepared ( Step A308) and the command setting process (Step A309) are also executed, so the process proceeds to Step A310 without performing these processes.
Next, a process for preparing a table for shifting to the special figure normal process (step A310), specifically, the process number “0” related to the special figure normal process, and the special prize opening fraud monitoring period are included in the table. A process for setting a prescribed flag (big prize opening fraud monitoring information) or the like is performed, and the special figure routine process is terminated.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step A302 that the second special figure reservation number is not 0 (step A302; No), special figure 2 fluctuation start processing (step A311) is performed. Details of the special figure 2 fluctuation start process will be described later.
Then, a process (step A312) for preparing a table (for the second special figure) for shifting to the special figure changing process (step A312), specifically, the process number “1” relating to the special figure changing process is included in the table. , Information relating to the end of the customer waiting demonstration, test signals relating to the fluctuation of the second special figure, information for controlling the second special figure fluctuation display game in the special figure 2 display 52 (for example, the special figure 2 display 52 And the like, and a special figure normal processing is completed.

If it is determined in step A304 that the first special figure hold number is not 0 (step A304; No), special figure 1 fluctuation start processing (step A313) is performed. Details of the special figure 1 fluctuation start process will be described later.
Then, a process (step A314) for preparing a table (for the first special figure) for shifting to the special figure changing process (step A314), specifically, the process number “1” relating to the special figure changing process is included in the table. , Information related to the end of the customer waiting demonstration, test signals related to the fluctuation of the first special figure, information for controlling the first special figure fluctuation display game in the special figure 1 display 51 (for example, the special figure 1 display 51 And the like, and a special figure normal processing is finished.
In this way, the second special figure hold number in step A301 and step A302 is checked before the first special figure hold number check in step A303 and step A304, so that the second special figure hold number is zero. If not, the special figure 2 fluctuation start process (step A311) will be executed.
That is, the second special figure variation display game is executed with priority over the first special figure variation display game.

[Special Figure 1 Change Start Processing]
Next, the details of the special figure 1 fluctuation start process (step A313) in the above-described special figure ordinary process will be described.
The special figure 1 fluctuation start process is a process performed at the start of the first special figure fluctuation display game. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 13, first, whether or not the first special figure fluctuation display game is a big hit. The big hit flag 1 for determining whether or not the big hit flag 1 is set (step A321).

Next, the special figure 1 stop symbol setting process (step A322) related to the setting of the first special figure stop symbol (special figure 1 stop symbol) is performed. Then, a signal corresponding to the first special figure stop symbol number (special figure 1 stop symbol number) is saved in the test signal output data area (step A323).
Subsequently, after the stop symbol pattern information set in the special symbol 1 stop symbol setting process is loaded, the stop symbol pattern information is saved in the symbol information area for work of the RWM (step A324).

Next, the special figure 1 fluctuation flag is set and prepared (step A325), and the special figure 1 fluctuation flag is saved in the fluctuation symbol discrimination flag area of the RWM (step A326).
Thereafter, a table (for special figure 1) for setting information regarding the variation pattern is prepared (step A327), and special figure information setting processing (step A328) for setting special figure information is performed. Subsequently, among the variation modes in the first special figure variation display game, after performing the latter half variation pattern setting process (step A329) for setting the latter half variation pattern, the variation for setting the variation aspect of the first special figure variation display game. Pattern setting processing (step A330) is performed. In the processing of Steps A329 and 330, the variation pattern is determined by referring to the variation pattern table in the variation pattern random number saved in the RWM in the special figure start port switch common processing (see FIG. 10). That is, the game control apparatus 100 acquires the random number based on the winning of the game ball in the start winning area 36, 37 by executing the above-described special figure start port switch common process and the main process, and based on the random number It functions as a variation mode setting means for selecting a variation mode of the variation display game from a plurality of types of variation modes.

  After the process of step A330, a shortening variation pattern preparation process (step A331) is performed. Details of the shortening variation pattern preparation process will be described later. Then, a variation start information setting process (step A332) for setting information related to the start of the first special figure variation display game such as a variation time is performed, and the special figure 1 variation start process is terminated.

[Special Figure 2 Variation Start Processing]
Next, the details of the special figure 2 fluctuation start process (step A311) in the above-described special figure usual process (see FIG. 12) will be described.
The special figure 2 fluctuation start process is a process that is performed at the start of the second special figure fluctuation display game. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 14, first, whether or not the second special figure fluctuation display game is a big hit. The big hit flag 2 for determining whether or not the big hit flag 2 is set (step A341).

Next, the special figure 2 stop symbol setting process (step A342) related to the setting of the second special figure stop symbol (special figure 2 stop symbol) is performed. Then, the signal corresponding to the second special figure stop symbol number (special symbol 2 stop symbol number) is saved in the test signal output data area (step A343).
Subsequently, after the stop symbol pattern information set in the special symbol 2 stop symbol setting process is loaded, the stop symbol pattern information is saved in the symbol information area for work of the RWM (step A344).

Next, the special figure 2 fluctuation flag is set and prepared (step A345), and the special figure 2 fluctuation flag is saved in the fluctuation symbol discrimination flag area of the RWM (step A346).
Thereafter, a table (for special figure 2) for setting information regarding the fluctuation pattern is prepared (step A347), and special figure information setting processing (step A348) for setting special figure information is performed. Subsequently, among the variation modes in the second special figure variation display game, after performing the latter half variation pattern setting process (step A349) for setting the latter half variation pattern, the variation for setting the variation aspect of the second special figure variation display game. Pattern setting processing (step A350) is performed, and shortening variation pattern preparation processing (step A351) is performed. This shortening variation pattern preparation process is the same as that of the special figure 1 variation start process. Then, a variation start information setting process (step A352) for setting information related to the start of the second special figure variation display game such as the variation time is performed, and the special figure 2 variation start process is terminated.

[Variation pattern preparation process for shortening]
Next, details of the shortening variation pattern preparation process (step A331 (A351)) in the above-described special figure 1 (special figure 2) fluctuation start process will be described.
As shown in FIG. 15, in the shortening variation pattern preparation process, first, the second half variation pattern of the special figure variation display game executed based on the current process is checked (step A361), and the variation pattern thus checked is shortened. It is determined whether or not it corresponds to the effect (step A362).

  The variation shortening effect is an effect performed in a shortened variation mode in which the effect accompanying the variation of the special figure variation display game is shortened than usual. In the present embodiment, among the plurality of latter-half fluctuation patterns set in the latter-half fluctuation pattern table, a notice effect that notifies the occurrence of special reach (including those that develop into special reach after the occurrence of normal reach) is executed. The latter half of the variation pattern corresponds to the variation shortening effect. The latter half variation pattern corresponding to the variation shortening effect is set in this way because the special figure variation display game that does not generate special reach originally has a short variation time, so there is no need to bother the variation shortening effect, and it fluctuates very frequently This is because even if a shortened effect appears, the player may feel annoyed.

  In the latter-half variation pattern table, one or more shortening variation patterns are set for each latter-half variation pattern corresponding to the variation shortening effect. The set number of variation patterns for shortening varies depending on the variation time of the corresponding latter-half variation pattern, the number of effects to be generated, and the like. A specific setting example will be described later, but the shortening variation pattern has the same effect as the corresponding latter-half variation pattern, and the execution time is shortened, or from the effects generated in the corresponding latter-half variation pattern There are things that exclude certain productions. And, during the execution of the special figure fluctuation display game, by switching the preset second half fluctuation pattern to the shortening fluctuation pattern, it seems as if the planned second half fluctuation is being shortened. Can do.

  If it is determined in step A362 that it cannot be shortened (step A362; No), the shortening variation pattern preparation process ends. On the other hand, if it is determined that shortening is possible (step A362; Yes), it is determined whether or not a predetermined number or more of start memories are stored (step A363). In the present embodiment, the predetermined number is three, but this number can be changed according to the winning difficulty level at the start winning opening. As a result, it is possible to prevent a situation in which the special figure variation display game being executed with a small amount of start memory ends early, and there is no start memory and the next special figure variation display game is not executed. .

  If it is determined that a predetermined number or more of start memories are not stored (step A363; No), the shortening variation pattern preparation process is terminated. On the other hand, when it is determined that a predetermined number or more of starting memories are stored (step A363; Yes), a shortening variation pattern corresponding to the set variation pattern is prepared (step A364). In the present embodiment, all the shortening variation patterns corresponding to the set variation pattern are prepared, but only a part may be prepared based on a predetermined condition. In addition, when the variation pattern for shortening to be prepared is a part instead of all, it is desirable to prepare a plurality (two or more types) of variation patterns for variation shortening effects for one variation pattern that can be shortened.

  Thereafter, a process of turning on a fluctuation shortening selection flag (step A365) indicating that the fluctuation shortening effect can be executed in the special figure fluctuation display game performed based on the current process is performed, and a fluctuation shortening effect execution command is produced. It transmits to the control apparatus 300 (step A366), and the variation pattern preparation process for shortening is complete | finished.

  By performing the above processing, it is possible to execute a variation shortening effect when a special reach occurs in a special figure variation display game to be performed and the current start memory number is 3 or more. In other words, the game control device 100 performs the above processing to cause the variation display setting device (game control device 100) to expect the decoration display device (display device 41) to become a special result mode (big hit). When a variation mode for displaying (such as a reach effect) is set, a function that enables a change to a variation mode for variation (variation pattern for shortening), and a predetermined number or more of start memories are stored in the start storage unit 100 In this case, it has a function that enables the change mode for change.

Even if the start memory is not more than the predetermined number and the shortening variation pattern is not prepared at the time of executing this process, the start memory number reaches the predetermined number by the timing when the variation shortening selection effect is started. For example, a shortening variation pattern may be prepared at that time.
Further, whether or not to execute the variation shortening selection effect may be determined based on the number of reach occurrences of today and the number of reach occurrences within the latest predetermined rotation. In this way, if there is a reach that frequently appears and the player is tired of seeing it, the fluctuation reduction effect can be executed, and if a reach that does not appear very often occurs, the fluctuation reduction effect should not be executed. Thus, it is possible to prevent the player from missing an unfamiliar reach.
In addition, a variation shortening effect may be generated by satisfying any one of the plurality of generation conditions (a variation pattern, the number of start memories, the number of times of reach, etc.), a combination of a plurality of generation conditions, or in some cases The generation condition may be changed.
Alternatively, a lottery may be performed when the execution conditions for the fluctuation shortening effect are satisfied, and the variation shortening effect may be executed only when the lottery is won.

[Special figure changing process]
Next, the details of the special figure changing process (step A10) in the special figure game process described above will be described.
As shown in FIG. 16, in the special symbol changing process, first, the stop symbol information set in the special symbol 1 stop symbol setting process is checked (step A401), and it is determined that the stop symbol information is not out of symbol information. If it is (step A402; No), a process (step A403) for setting a special figure display time pointer when a special result mode is derived in the special figure fluctuation display game and is a big hit is performed, and the process proceeds to step A408. To do.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step A402 that the stopped symbol information is out of symbol information (step A404; Yes), whether or not the latter half variation number set in the latter half variation pattern setting process is a number without reach. (Step A404), and if it is determined that the latter half variation number is not a reachless number, that is, a reachable number (step A405; No), a special result mode in the special figure variation display game Is not derived and is out of place and a reach state occurs, a special figure display time pointer is set (step A406), and the process proceeds to step A408.
On the other hand, when it is determined in step A405 that the second half variation number is a non-reach number (step A405; Yes), the special result mode is not derived in the special figure variation display game, and it is out of place. Then, processing for setting a special figure stop time pointer when the reach state does not occur (step A407) is performed, and the process proceeds to step A408.

  In step A408, a special figure display time table is set. Thereafter, the display time corresponding to the special figure display time pointer set in any of steps A403, A406, A407, that is, the special figure stop time pointer at the big hit set in step A403, set in step A406 A process of obtaining a stop time corresponding to either the special figure stop time pointer at the time of reach deviation or the special figure stop time pointer set at step A407 (at the time of release without reach occurrence). After performing step A409), the acquired stop time is saved in the special figure game processing timer (step A410).

  Then, a process for preparing a table for shifting to the special figure display process (step A411), specifically, the process number “2” relating to the special figure display process, the first special figure and the first 2 Test signal for stoppage of special figure, stop signal for the number of times of execution of special figure fluctuation display game for output to external information terminal, first special figure in special figure 1 display 51 and special figure 2 display 52 Perform processing for setting information for controlling the figure fluctuation display game and the second special figure fluctuation display game (for example, a flag related to the fluctuation suspension of the special figure 1 display 51 and the special figure 2 display 52, etc.) The special figure changing process is terminated.

[Variation shortening effect selection processing]
Next, details of the variation shortening effect selection process (step A59) in the above-described timer interrupt process (see FIG. 7) will be described.

  As shown in FIG. 17, in the variation shortening effect selection process, first, it is determined whether or not the variation shortening effect selection flag is on (step A21). Here, when it is determined that the variation shortening effect selection flag is not turned on (step A21; No), the variation shortening effect selection process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that the variation shortening selection flag is on (step A21; Yes), it is determined whether or not it is the execution period of the variation shortening selection effect (step A22). As shown in FIG. 27, the fluctuation shortening selection effect is performed during the execution of the special figure fluctuation display game (first half), and whether or not the fluctuation reduction effect is executed in the second half of the special figure fluctuation display game. This is a content that allows the player to select which variation variation pattern for shortening is to be used as a variation shortening effect by operating the effect button 25.

  Here, when it is determined that it is the execution period of the variation shortening selection effect (step A22; Yes), processing for setting the operation of the effect button 25 to be effective (step A23) is performed. The period during which the operation of the effect button 25 is valid from the time when this process is performed until the process of invalidating the operation of the effect button 25 described later (step A30) is referred to as an operation effective period. In other words, the game control device 100 performs this process as an operation effective period generating unit that generates an operation effective period for enabling the input from the operation unit (the effect button 25) during the execution of the variable display game. Will work.

  After the process of step A23, it is determined whether or not an operation of the effect button 25 is detected, that is, whether or not a signal from the button switch 25 is input (step A24). Here, when it determines with operation of the production | presentation button 25 not being detected (step A24; No), a fluctuation | variation reduction effect selection process is complete | finished. On the other hand, when it determines with operation of the production button 25 having been detected (step A24; Yes), the process (step A25) which changes the latter half fluctuation pattern of the special figure fluctuation display game in execution is performed. Specifically, among the normal variation pattern and the prepared variation pattern for shortening, the selection destination is switched from the variation pattern selected at the time when this processing is performed to another variation pattern that is not selected, and the second half variation pattern The process to reset as is performed. That is, by executing this process, the game control device 100 corresponds to the variation mode selected by the variation mode setting unit based on the establishment of the predetermined condition, and has a variation time longer than the variation mode. It functions as a variation mode changing means that can be changed to a short variation mode.

  In addition, the game control device 100 performs the above-described processing, thereby selecting and changing any one of a plurality of types of change variation modes (shortening variation patterns) having different variation times. A function of selecting and changing any of a plurality of change modes for change based on an input from the (production effect button 25), and an operation of the operation means 25 when the operation means 25 is operated during the operation valid period. A function of selecting any one of a plurality of types of change modes for change based on the mode, and a mode of change of the currently running variable display game based on the end of the operation valid period. And a function of switching the changing variation mode of the selection target each time the button (effect button 25) is pressed.

  After step A25, it is determined whether or not the remaining time until the operation valid period ends is set in the special figure game processing timer (step A26). If it is determined that the remaining time has been set (step A26; Yes), the variation reduction effect selection process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that the remaining time has not been set (step A26; No), the remaining time until the operation valid period ends is set in the special game processing timer (step A27). Then, “7” is set in the special figure game process number (step A28), and the variation reduction effect selection process is terminated.

When it is determined in step A22 that it is not the execution period of the variation shortening selection effect (step A22; No), it is determined whether it is the end timing of the variation shortening selection effect (step A29). If an operation button is detected in step A24 during the variation shortening selection effect, the special figure game processing timer set in step A27 also expires at this timing, that is, at the end of the variation shortening selection effect. Here, when it is determined that it is not the end timing of the variation shortening selection effect (step A29; No), the variation shortening effect selection process is terminated. On the other hand, when it is determined that it is the end timing of the variation shortening selection effect (step A29; Yes), a process for ending the operation valid period, that is, a process for setting the operation of the effect button 25 to be invalid (step A30). The process for turning off the variation shortening selection flag is performed (step A31), and the variation shortening effect selecting process is terminated.
By performing the above processing, the variation pattern to be selected is switched each time the effect button 25 is operated during the execution of the variation shortening selection effect. Then, the variation pattern selected at the end of the variation shortening selection effect is the latter half variation pattern of the special figure variation display game being executed.

[Variation time change processing]
Next, the details of the change time changing process (step A16) in the above-described special figure game process (see FIG. 8) will be described.
As shown in FIG. 18, in the variation time change process, first, the latter half variation pattern selected in the variation shortening effect selection process is checked (step A501), and it is determined whether or not the shortening variation pattern is selected. (Step A502). If it is determined that the shortening variation pattern is selected (step A502; Yes), a shortening effect variation time value corresponding to the selected shortening variation pattern is prepared (step A503), and the variation time is set. A setting change process (step A504) is performed. In this variation time setting changing process, a process for setting a variation time corresponding to the variation pattern for shortening selected in the variation shortening effect selection process described above is performed in the special figure game process timer. Thereafter, a process for setting a special figure display time pointer at the time of fluctuation reduction (step A505) is performed, "2" is set to the special figure game process number (step A508), and the fluctuation time change process is terminated.

If it is determined in step A502 that the shortening variation pattern is not selected (step A502; No), the remaining time of the variation time of the special figure variation display game being executed is confirmed (step A506), and the remaining time. Is set in the special figure game processing timer (step A507), and the process proceeds to step A508. The processing of Steps A506 and 507 corresponds to the case where the operation button is detected during the operation effective period, but the variation pattern having no variation time variation is selected from a plurality of options.
By performing the above processing, when the variation pattern for shortening is set, the execution time of the special figure variation display game is shortened according to the variation pattern for shortening set.

  Next, control in the effect control device 300 will be described. As shown in FIG. 4, the effect control device 300 includes a main control microcomputer (1stCPU) 311 and a video control microcomputer (2ndCPU) 312 that performs video control under the control of the main control microcomputer 311. .

[1st main processing]
The main control microcomputer (1st CPU) 311 of the effect control device 300 performs the 1st main process shown in FIG. In this 1st main process, the process at the start of the program is first performed. As processing at the time of starting the program, first, interrupts are prohibited (step B11), the RAM is cleared to 0 (step B12), and a CPU initialization process (step B13) for initializing the CPU is performed. Next, an initial value of the RAM is set (step B14), random number initialization processing (step B15) for initializing random numbers is performed, timers for various interrupts are started (step B16), and interrupts are permitted (step B16). B17).

  Next, loop processing is performed as main loop processing. In this loop processing, first, the WDT (watchdog timer) is cleared (step B18), and the effect button operation input process (step B19) for creating input information from the input signal (rising edge) based on the operation of the effect button 25 is performed. Do.

  Next, a game control command analysis process (step B20) is performed. In this game control command analysis process (step B20), it is determined whether or not a command related to a game transmitted from the game control apparatus 100 has been correctly received. Processing to classify commands for processing.

  Next, a test mode process (step B21), which is a process related to a test mode for testing the display device 41, the decoration device, the rendering device, and the like, is performed. When the test mode is set by the test mode process (step B21), the subsequent game-related processes are not performed. However, in the test mode, when performing display on the display device 41, output of sound from the speaker, light emission of the LED of the decoration device, operation of the effect device, etc., control is performed in a process for controlling these. Note that the test mode ends when the gaming machine is powered off.

  And the scene control process (step B22) regarding control of the effect of a game is performed. Next, based on an error notification command transmitted from the gaming control device 100 when an error occurs in the gaming machine, a gaming machine error monitoring process (step B23) for performing a corresponding notification is performed. In addition, the display on the display device 41 for performing the corresponding notification, the sound output from the speaker, the light emission of the LED of the decoration device, the operation of the effect device, and the like are the processes for controlling these (for example, from the speaker) If it is an audio output, control is performed in sound control processing.

  Thereafter, an effect command editing process (step B24) for editing a command to be output to the video control microcomputer (2ndCPU) 312 is performed, and sound control for performing control related to output of sound from the speakers (upper speaker 19 and lower speaker unit 29). Processing (step B25) is performed. Next, a decoration control process for controlling the LEDs of the panel decoration device 42 and the frame decoration device 18 (step B26), a motor / SOL control process for controlling the motors and solenoids of the panel effect device 44 and the frame effect device 45 (step) B27) is performed. And the random number update process (step B28) which updates the random number which determines the detail of the fluctuation | variation aspect of a decoration special figure fluctuation display game is performed, and it returns to the process (step B18) which clears WDT.

[2nd main processing]
The video control microcomputer (2ndCPU) 312 performs a 2nd main process shown in FIG. In the 2nd main process, the process at the start of the program is first performed. As processing at the start of the program, first, CPU initialization processing for initializing the CPU (step B31) is performed, the RAM is cleared to 0 (step B32), and the initial value of the RAM is set (step B33). Next, VDP initialization processing (step B34) for initializing VDP is performed, and various interrupts are permitted (step B35). Furthermore, initialization processing of various control processing (step B36) is performed, and screen drawing is permitted (step B37).

  Next, loop processing is performed as main loop processing. In this loop processing, first, the system cycle wait flag is cleared (step B38), and it is determined whether or not the system cycle wait flag is 1 (step B39). The system cycle is a cycle for switching between two buffers for temporarily storing image data. When the switching is enabled, the system cycle flag is “1”. Until the system cycle wait flag becomes 1, the determination whether the system cycle wait flag is 1 is repeated (step B39). When the system cycle wait flag becomes 1 (step B39; Yes), WDT (watchdog timer) is cleared (step B40), the normal game process (step B41) is performed, and the process returns to the process of clearing the system cycle waiting flag (step B38).

[Normal game processing]
Next, details of the normal game process (step B41) in the 2nd main process will be described.
As shown in FIG. 21, in the normal game process, first, a received command check process (step B51) is performed. In this received command check process (step B51), it is determined whether or not the command transmitted from the 1st CPU has been correctly received. If the command has been correctly received, the command is determined and a command for a 2nd scene control process to be described later. Process to classify.

Next, a background process (step B52) for setting a background is performed, and a reel control / display process (step B53), which is a display control process related to the variation of the identification information in the decorative special figure variation display game, is performed. Further, a hold display process (step B54) is performed for setting the display of the special figure hold number displayed on the display device 41 in conjunction with the display of the special figure 1 hold indicator and the special figure 2 hold indicator.
Thereafter, a customer waiting demo process (step B55) relating to the display of the customer waiting demo is performed. Then, based on the received command, a scene control / display process for determining display contents (step B56) is performed, and a variation shortening effect process (step B57) is performed. Then, the ROM data is transferred to the buffer set in the RAM, the display system process (step B58) for performing the actual display process is performed, and the normal game process is terminated.

[Variation shortening effect processing]
Next, details of the variation shortening effect process (step B57) in the normal game process will be described.
As shown in FIG. 22, in the variation shortening effect process, first, it is determined whether or not a variation shortening effect execution command is received from the game control device 100 (step B61). Here, when it is determined that the variation shortening effect execution command has been received (step B61; Yes), a process (step B62) for restricting the appearance of the effect (button effect) using the effect button 25 other than the variation shortening selection effect is performed. Do. That is, the effect control device 300 has a function of restricting the appearance of the button effect during the operation effective period.

Then, a variation shortening selection effect is prepared (step B63), and a process of turning on the variation shortening effect flag (step B64) is performed. By turning on this variation shortening effect flag, it is indicated that the variation shortening effect can be executed. And the fluctuation shortening selection effect execution process (step B65) for performing a fluctuation shortening selection effect is performed, and a fluctuation shortening effect process is complete | finished.
If it is determined in step B61 that the variation shortening effect execution command has not been received (step B61; No), the process of step B65 is performed, and the variation shortening effect process ends.

[Variation shortening selection effect execution processing]
Next, details of the variation shortening selection effect execution process (step B65) in the variation shortening effect process will be described.
As shown in FIG. 23, in the variation shortening selection effect execution process, first, it is determined whether or not the variation shortening effect flag is turned on, that is, whether or not the variation shortening effect is executable (step B71). . Here, when it is determined that the variation shortening effect flag is not turned on (step B71; No), the variation shortening selection effect execution process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that the variation shortening effect flag is on (step B71; Yes), it is determined whether or not it is the execution period of the variation shortening selection effect (step B72). Here, when it is determined that it is the execution period of the variation shortening selection effect (step B72; Yes), a process of executing the variation shortening selection effect (step B73) is performed. In step B73, processing for displaying a variation mode display (see FIG. 27C) indicating a selectable variation shortening mode on the display device 41 is performed.

  Thereafter, it is determined whether an operation of the effect button 25 is detected (step B74). If it is determined that the operation of the effect button 25 is not detected (step B74; No), the variation shortening selection effect execution process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that the operation of the effect button 25 has been detected (step B74; Yes), the currently selected variation shortening mode is changed, that is, the variation mode display displayed on the display device 41 is selected. The display mode of the variation mode display corresponding to the changed variation pattern is changed to the selected mode, and the display mode of the variation mode display corresponding to the variation pattern selected so far is returned to the non-selected mode (step B75). Then, the variation shortening selection effect execution process is terminated.

  If it is determined in step B72 that it is not the execution period of the variation shortening selection effect (step B72; No), it is determined whether or not the end timing of the variation shortening selection effect has come (step B76). Here, when it is determined that it is not the end timing of the variation shortening selection effect (step B76; No), the variation shortening selection effect execution process is terminated. On the other hand, when it is determined that the end timing of the variation shortening selection effect has been reached (step B76; Yes), processing for turning off the variation shortening effect flag (step B77) is performed, and variation shortening effect execution processing (step B78) is performed. Then, the fluctuation shortening selection effect execution process is ended.

[Variation shortening effect execution processing]
Next, the details of the variation shortening effect execution process (step B78) in the variation shortening selection effect execution process will be described.
As shown in FIG. 24, in the variation shortening effect execution process, first, the selected variation shortening mode is checked (step B81), and the variation shortening effect corresponding to the checked variation shortening mode is set (step B82). Then, the set variation shortening effect is executed (step B83), and the variation shortening effect executing process is terminated. That is, the effect control device 300 has a function of causing the decoration display device (display device 41) to display an effect image corresponding to the change mode (variation pattern) set by the change mode setting means (game control device 100). .

[Example of shortening variation setting]
Next, a setting example of the variation mode in the variation shortening effect will be described.
In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 25 and 26, when the normal variation mode is selected, a lot of notice effects are performed with a long variation time (here, a reach generation effect, a special reach development effect, a chance up effect) In the special figure variation display game, four types of notice effects such as cut-in effects are performed and intermediate effects are performed before and after them. Up to six types (immediate stop, fast forward 1, fast forward 2, digest 1, digest) (2) (Skip) fluctuation reduction effect can be executed. The details of the first half notice effect and the variation shortening selection effect shown in the figure will be described later.

  As shown in FIG. 25 (a), the immediate stop cuts off all effects that were to be performed between the end of the variation shortening selection effect and the special symbol stop display, and after the end of the variation shortening selection effect. This is a variation shortening mode in which a special symbol is immediately stopped and displayed in a stop result mode. Note that the time for which the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the variation shortening effect when this variation shortening mode is selected is the same length as the stop display in the normal effect so that the stop result can be reliably confirmed. The same applies to the other fluctuation shortening modes described below. When this variation shortening mode is selected, the special figure variation display game is completed earliest, so that the player can know the result earliest.

  As shown in FIG. 25 (b), fast-forward 1 displays all the effects that were to be performed between the end of the variation shortening selection effect and the variation stop by displaying fast-forwarding (for example, double speed). This is a variation shortening mode in which the variation time is shortened (halved). When this variation shortening mode is selected, the special figure variation display game can be finished earlier than when the normal variation pattern is selected while checking a series of effects.

  As shown in FIG. 25 (c), the fast forward 2 is the same as the case where the normal variation mode is selected as the notice effect among the effects to be performed between the end of the variation shortening selection effect and the variation stop. This is a variation shortening mode in which the variation time of the latter half is shortened by executing (with the same execution time) and fast-forwarding only the intermediate effects before and after that. When this variation shortening mode is selected, the player can enjoy the production of interest (notice production) as usual, and the production that is not particularly interested (intermediate production) is finished early and proceeds. Because you can, you can enjoy a sharp game.

  As shown in FIG. 26 (a), the digest 1 does not perform the intermediate effect among the effects that were to be performed between the end of the variation shortening selection effect and the variation stop, but only one scene of each notice effect. There is a variation shortening mode in which a predetermined time (for example, 1.5 seconds) is cut out and collectively displayed sequentially. When this variation shortening mode is selected, the player can confirm only the points of the main notice effect that he / she wants to know and can finish the special figure variation display game early.

  As shown in FIG. 26 (b), the digest 2 does not perform the intermediate effect among the effects that were to be performed from the end of the variation shortening selection effect to the stop of the variation, and continuously performs each notice effect. This is a variation shortening mode to be displayed. When this variation shortening mode is selected, the contents of the notice effect can be confirmed in more detail than the digest 1, and the special figure variation display game can be finished earlier.

As shown in FIG. 26 (c), the skip is performed in the first half (here, after the end of the special reach development effect) of the effects to be performed between the end of the change shortening selection effect and the stop of change. This is a variation shortening mode in which only the effects in the latter half are displayed. When this variation shortening mode is selected, a production with high expectation is started from the beginning, so that not only can the variation be finished quickly, but also the change can be enjoyed with high expectations from the start of the production. .
In the variation shortening mode “Skip”, the range of effects to be omitted is arbitrary, so that it is omitted until the end of effects other than the special reach development effect, or until just before the special symbol stop display. It may be. Further, an intermediate part of the effect (for example, from the end of the reach occurrence effect to the end of the chance up effect) may be omitted.

[Example of production]
Next, examples of various effects displayed on the display device 41 will be described. FIG. 27 is a display example of a variation shortening selection effect, FIG. 28 is a display example of a normal effect, and FIGS. 30 and 31 are display examples of a variation shortening effect.
When the first half variation of the special figure variation display game is performed, as shown in FIG. 27A, a special symbol is variably displayed at the center of the display area of the display device 41, and the start corresponding to the start memory is displayed at the bottom of the display area. The memory display is displayed. Here, since a predetermined number (3) or more of start memory is stored, if the fluctuation pattern of the special figure fluctuation display game that is fluctuating can be fluctuated, the fluctuation reduction selection effect can be executed after this. It becomes.

When a variation shortening selection effect is to be executed, that is, when a second half variation pattern having a corresponding variation pattern for shortening is set, before the start of the variation shortening selection effect (or until the end of the variation shortening selection effect) ) To execute the first half notice effect informing that the notice effect will be executed. In the first half notice effect, for example, as shown in FIG. 27 (b), it suggests the possibility (expected degree) that a special figure variation display game executed based on the current process based on the pre-read result of the start memory will be a big hit. The image to be displayed (here, the character C and the dialogue that the character C speaks according to the degree of expectation). This first half notice effect is performed only when the variation shortening effect can be executed (immediately before the execution of the variation shortening selection effect), so that this itself is a notification that a highly expected (long) variation is performed. Then, by notifying the high level of expectation, it is possible to predict the degree of expectation for the change based on the content of the first half notice effect (the line of character C), and select whether or not to reduce the subsequent change It can be used as a judgment material.
It should be noted that in the first half notice effect, the player may be able to confirm whether the reach he / she wants to see or the reach he / she wishes to skip is by suggesting to the player the type of reach to be executed later.

  When the first half notice effect is finished, the variation shortening selection effect is started. When the variation shortening selection effect is started, the operation of the effect button 25 becomes effective. Then, as shown in FIG. 27C, the display device 41 displays an image B that prompts the operation of the effect button 25 and a meter M that displays the remaining period during which the operation of the effect button 25 is valid. The display value of the meter M decreases at the start of display and becomes 0 at the end of the variation shortening selection effect. When the display value of the meter M becomes 0, the operation of the effect button 25 becomes invalid. Since the variable display game continues during this time, the special symbol is reduced and displayed at the end of the display area (here, the upper left).

Further, in the variation shortening selection effect, variation mode displays P1 to P4 indicating the names of selectable variation modes (here, four types of normal fast forward, digest, and immediate stop) are arranged side by side (here, in a vertical line). Is displayed. The variation mode display P1 indicating the normal variation mode is always displayed, and the variation mode display indicating the shortened variation mode is the latter-half variation pattern (second-half variation time or expectation degree of performance) of the special figure variation display game being executed. In response to this, the one corresponding to the variation mode selected from the plurality (six types) described above is displayed.
In the case of a change with low expectation, it is preferable to set the appearance rate of the shortened change mode “digest” to be low because a chance-up effect or the like hardly occurs. In addition, in the case of a change with a high degree of expectation, the appearance rate of the shortened change mode “immediate stop” may be set low so that the player does not miss the flow up to the big hit.

  And about the thing which shows the variation pattern under selection among the variation mode displays P1-P4 currently displayed, the display mode (for example, color) is made into the selection mode which is different from other variation mode displays, It is made possible for the player to recognize that the variation pattern shown in the variation mode display is selected. Note that, at the beginning of the start of the variation shortening selection effect, the normal effect mode is selected as shown in FIG.

  When the effect button 25 is pressed once by the player during execution of this variation shortening selection effect, as shown in FIG. 27 (d), the variation mode display (normal effect) P1 that has been selected until then is displayed. The display mode becomes the non-selected mode, and the next (bottom) variation mode display (fast forward) P2 changes to the selected mode. That is, the selected variation pattern is switched. While the variation shortening selection effect is being executed, the selection of the variation mode display can be changed any number of times, and each time the effect button 25 is pressed, the currently selected variation mode display is switched as shown in FIG. . When the effect button 25 is pressed again while the last (bottom) variation mode display (here, immediate stop) P4 is selected, the first (top) variation mode display (normal effect) P1 is again displayed. Selected.

When the display value of the meter M becomes 0, the variation shortening selection effect ends, and the operation of the effect button 25 becomes invalid. That is, even when the effect button 25 is pressed, the currently selected variation mode display is not switched. Then, the variation pattern corresponding to the variation mode display selected at the end of the variation shortening selection effect is the latter half variation pattern of the special figure variation display game being varied. Since the variation mode display (normal effect) P1 is selected at the beginning of the variation shortening selection effect, the normal variation pattern is set when the effect button 25 is not operated at all from the beginning of the variation shortening selection effect. Will remain.
Thus, in the variation shortening selection effect, in addition to selecting whether or not to shorten the variation time, the player can also select what kind of variation shortening effect to perform when shortening. 25).

  Here, when the player determines that there is a high probability of winning a big hit in the first half notice effect and wants to enjoy the effect at the time of change slowly, as shown in FIG. It is conceivable to select a variation pattern of “normal production” in the production. When this “normal variation” is selected, after the variation shortening selection effect is finished, the intermediate effect shown in FIG. 28 (b), the reach generation effect shown in FIG. 28 (c), and the second effect shown in FIG. 28 (d). Intermediate production, special reach development production shown in FIG. 28 (e), third intermediate production shown in FIG. 28 (f), cut-in production shown in FIG. 28 (g), fourth intermediate shown in FIG. 28 (h) The effects are sequentially executed, and as shown in FIG. 28 (i), the special symbol is stopped and displayed in a stop result mode of detachment. During the performance, it is preferable to display the variation pattern name N so that it can be seen at a glance which variation pattern has been selected.

  In addition, when the player cannot predict the result in the first half notice effect and wants to see the effect at the time of change, as shown in FIG. It is conceivable to select a variation pattern of “”. When this “digest” is selected, after the change shortening selection effect is completed, the reach generation effect shown in FIG. 29B, the special reach development effect shown in FIG. 29C, and the cut shown in FIG. The in effect is continuously executed, and as shown in FIG. 29 (e), the special symbol is stopped and displayed in a stop result mode of detachment.

In addition, when the player determines that the result cannot be expected in the first half notice effect and wants to end the running special figure variation display game quickly, as shown in FIG. It is conceivable to select a variation pattern of “immediate stop” in the selection effect. When this “immediate stop” is selected, as shown in FIG. 30 (b), the special symbol is immediately stopped and displayed in the outlier stop result mode after the end of the variation shortening selection effect.
Even if immediate stop is selected in the change shortening selection effect, if the special figure change display game in change is a big hit, the change is made with a change pattern for shortening other than the immediate stop, You may make it prevent that a player overlooks the flow of production. In this way, when the immediate stop is selected but the immediate stop is not made, this is a big hit notification, so that the player can see the change in the latter half while enjoying it.

<Modification 1>
By the way, the variation shortening effect of the present embodiment can be applied also to the case where pseudo continuous variation is performed in a special figure variation display game by preparing a corresponding variation pattern for shortening.
For example, as shown in FIG. 31 (a-2), the second variation shortening selection effect is executed not only immediately after the first half notice effect but also immediately after the temporary stop display performed a plurality of times (here, twice). At this time, the variation time of the special symbol from the end of the variation shortening selection effect to the temporary stop display is set to the second variation shortening selection as compared with the case where the variation shortening effect is not performed in the pseudo continuous variation shown in FIG. By shortening the effect by the effect, the execution time of the entire pseudo continuous variation is prevented from becoming longer than the case where the variation shortening effect is not performed in the pseudo continuous variation.

In the second variation shortening selection effect set in this way, when the player selects the shortening variation mode “immediate stop”, the intermediate effect is skipped as shown in FIG. A final stop display is made. After the temporary stop display, the fluctuation shortening effect is executed again.
Further, in the second variation shortening selection effect, when the player selects the shortening variation mode “fast forward”, the second variation shortening selection effect is not performed as shown in FIG. A variation shortening effect is performed in the same manner as a normal variation that is not a pseudo continuous variation (here, “fast forward”). Even if “fast forward” is selected, the subsequent second variation shortening selection effect may be executed.

<Modification 2>
Further, when the normal variation mode is selected in the variation shortening selection effect, the operation effective period can be provided again after a predetermined time has elapsed.
For example, as shown in FIG. 32, the second variation shortening selection effect is executed in the middle of the second half variation (here, after the end of the special reach development effect), and the variation shortening effect is performed by the variation after the end of the second variation shortening selection effect. To do. For example, in the second variation shortening selection effect, for example, when the shortening variation mode “immediate stop” is selected, the special symbol is stopped and displayed immediately after the end of the second variation shortening selection effect.
In this modification, the change shortening selection effect is executed only once after the end of the special reach development effect. However, the change reduction selection effect is executed a plurality of times during one change such as after the end of each notice effect. May be. In this way, if the player does not select the shortening in the initial variation shortening selection effect, but sees the subsequent effect, the player still has no expectation of the result and wants to end the variation early. Can do.

  As described above, the game control device 100 provided in the gaming machine 10 of the present embodiment acquires a random number based on the winning of a game ball in the starting winning area (starting winning port 36, normal variation winning device 37), Fluctuation mode setting means (game control device 100) for selecting a variation mode (variation pattern) of a variation display game (special figure variation display game) from a plurality of types of variation modes based on the random number, and establishment of a predetermined condition Based on the above, the variation mode selected by the variation mode setting means 100 can be changed to a variation mode for change (shortening variation pattern) corresponding to the variation mode and having a variation time shorter than the variation mode. (Game control device 100), and the change mode change means 100 selects and changes any one of a plurality of types of change modes for change with different change times. To have.

  In this way, since the change mode changing means 100 selects one of a plurality of types of change modes having different change times based on the establishment of the predetermined condition, the change time is changed depending on the set predetermined condition. The variation mode of the shortened variation display game is changed to various modes with different variation times and effect images. For this reason, it is possible to prevent the player from getting bored by running the variable display game for a long time, and to suppress the decrease in the interest of the game.

  In addition, the gaming machine 10 of the present embodiment includes operation means (effect buttons 25) that can be operated from the outside by the player on the front side, and the change mode changing means 100 can input the operation of the operation means 25 by the player. Based on the input from the operation means 25, any one of a plurality of changing variation modes is selected and changed.

  In this way, the change mode changing means 100 selects any one of the plurality of change change modes based on the operation of the operation means 25 by the player, so that the player can select from a plurality of options. Can be selected. For this reason, the execution mode of the variable display game can be adapted to the fine needs of each player, and the player's satisfaction with the game can be enhanced.

  In addition, the game control device 100 according to the present embodiment includes operation valid period generation means (game control apparatus 100) that generates an operation valid period for validating input from the operation means 25 during execution of the variable display game. The change mode change unit 100 selects one of a plurality of types of change modes for change based on the operation mode of the operation unit 25 when the operation unit 25 is operated during the operation effective period, Based on the end of the change, the change mode of the running variable display game is changed to the change mode selected at the end.

  In this way, the change variation mode can be selected during the execution of the variation display game, so that the change variation mode can be changed after seeing the state of variation at the beginning of the variation display game. In addition, the process of changing the variation mode is performed based on the end of the operation valid period, that is, the timing for starting the process is determined, so that the control is simplified and the burden on the game control device 100 is reduced. Can do.

  In addition, the game control apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment is a start storage unit capable of storing a random number acquired based on a winning of game balls in the start winning areas 36 and 37 as a start memory within a predetermined number range. (Game control device 100), and the variation mode changing means 100 is configured to enable the change to the variation mode for change when a predetermined number or more of start memories are stored in the start storage means 100.

  In this way, when the start memory number does not reach the predetermined number (small), the changing variation mode is not selected, so that the start winning areas 36 and 37 are played while the variation display game having a long variation time is being played. You can earn a starting memory by winning a game ball.

  In addition, the operation unit 25 of the present embodiment is configured by one button (effect button 25), and the change mode changing unit 100 switches the change mode for changing the selection target each time the button 25 is pressed. .

  In this way, every time one button 25 is pressed by the player, the changing variation mode to be selected is switched, so that all the variation modes that can be executed with only a simple operation of operating one button are selected. It is possible to prevent a variation display game having an undesired variation mode from being executed by mistake.

  Further, in the gaming machine 10 of the present embodiment, the operation of the button 25 by the player can be input also to the effect control device 300, and the effect control device 300 can display the decoration display device (display device) according to the input from the button 25. 41) is configured such that a button effect that changes the display content can be executed, and the appearance of the button effect during the operation effective period is restricted.

  In this way, since the effect control device 300 restricts the appearance of the button effect during the operation effective period, the change mode changes when the button 25 is pressed with the intention of changing the display content during the execution of the button effect. It is possible to prevent a malfunction that is changed to a mode.

  In addition, the effect control device 300 of the present embodiment causes the decoration display device 41 to display an effect image corresponding to the variation mode set by the variation mode setting unit 100, and the variation mode change unit 100 uses the variation mode setting unit 100. When the variation mode for displaying the notice effect that is expected to be the special result mode on the decoration display device 41 is set, the change mode to the change mode can be changed.

In general, there is a higher possibility that a special effect mode will be generated when an effect that expects to be a special result mode is generated or not. Since the possibility that the selection is possible is likely to be a special result mode, it is possible to enjoy the subsequent fluctuations with high expectations from an early stage.
In addition, in a variable display game that is likely to become a special result mode, the variable time tends to be long, so it is more difficult for a player who wants to know the result sooner because of the change mode for change. It becomes.

  Note that the gaming machine of the present invention is not limited to a pachinko gaming machine as shown in the above embodiment as a gaming machine, for example, other pachinko gaming machines, arrange ball gaming machines, sparrow ball gaming machines, etc. It can be applied to all gaming machines that use this game ball.

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

10 gaming machine 25 production button (operation means)
30 game board 41 display device (design display device, decoration display device)
50 Collective display device (design display device)
100 Game control device (variation mode setting means, variation mode changing means, operation valid period generating means, starting storage means)
300 Production control device

Claims (2)

A display device capable of executing a variable display game that displays a plurality of identification information in a variable manner based on establishment of a predetermined condition and displaying a game effect related to the variable display game, and an effect control device that performs display control of the display device And comprising
In the gaming machine capable of generating a special gaming state advantageous to the player when the stop result mode of the variable display game is a special result mode determined in advance,
Providing production operation means that can be operated by the player,
The production control device
During the execution of the variable display game, a production operation valid period generating means for generating a production operation valid period for validating an input from the production operation means,
In one variation display game,
When the effect operation means is operated during the effect operation valid period, the display timing of the game effect displayed when the effect operation means is operated is displayed when the effect operation means is not operated. It is possible to make it earlier than the display time of the game production .
Ri can der possible to generate a plurality of pre-Symbol staging operation effective period of times,
Among the plurality of staging operation lifetime, and wherein the presentation when the operating means has performed a specific effect is operated to, it does not generate a staging operation valid period after during the previous staging operation lifetime To play. A display device capable of executing a variable display game that displays a plurality of identification information in a variable manner based on establishment of a predetermined condition and displaying a game effect related to the variable display game, and an effect control device that performs display control of the display device And comprising
In the gaming machine capable of generating a special gaming state advantageous to the player when the stop result mode of the variable display game is a special result mode determined in advance,
Providing production operation means that can be operated by the player,
The production control device
During the execution of the variable display game, a production operation valid period generating means for generating a production operation valid period for validating an input from the production operation means,
In one variation display game,
When the effect operation means is operated during the effect operation valid period, the display timing of the game effect displayed when the effect operation means is operated is displayed when the effect operation means is not operated. It is possible to make it earlier than the display time of the game production.
It is possible to generate the stage operation valid period multiple times,
When the production operation means is not operated in the previous production operation valid period among the plurality of production operation valid periods, a later production operation valid period is generated,
When the staging operation means in the staging operation lifetime of the target is operated, Yu Technical machine you characterized by not generating a staging operation valid period after the.

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