JP6401443B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

The present invention performs a variable display relates controllable gaming machine to an advantageous beneficial conditions for Yu technique's.

  As a gaming machine, a game ball, which is a game medium, is launched into a game area by a launching device, and when a game ball wins a prize area such as a prize opening provided in the game area, a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out to the player. There is something to be done. Further, a variable display device capable of variably displaying the identification information (also referred to as “fluctuation”) is provided, and when the display result of the variable display of the identification information in the variable display device becomes a specific display result, a predetermined game value Is configured to give the player a game (a so-called pachinko game machine).

  In addition, after setting a predetermined number of bets for one game on a predetermined game medium, the player starts variable display of identification information by the variable display device by operating the start lever, and the player By operating the stop button provided corresponding to the display device, the variable display of the identification information is stopped within the range of the maximum delay time determined in advance from the operation timing, and the variable display of all the variable display devices is displayed. In accordance with the display result derived when the game is stopped, a winning occurs, a predetermined game medium determined in advance according to the winning is paid out, and when a specific winning occurs, a player is given a predetermined gaming value as a gaming state. There is one that is configured to be in a state to be given to (so-called slot machine).

  The game value is the right that the state of the special variable winning ball device provided in the gaming area of the gaming machine is advantageous for a player who is easy to win, and the right for becoming advantageous for a player. Generating a prize ball, making it easy to satisfy a condition for paying out a prize ball, paying out a prize ball, and giving a predetermined point.

  In the pachinko gaming machine, when a specific display result is derived and displayed, it is controlled to a specific gaming state (for example, a big hit gaming state). The derived display means that the identification information (symbol) is finally stopped and displayed. In the specific gaming state, the special variable winning device (large winning opening) is opened a predetermined number of times so that the game ball can easily win. And in each open period, if there is a prize for a predetermined number (for example, 10) of the big prize opening, the big prize opening is closed. Hereinafter, the period during which each special winning opening is open may be referred to as a round.

  In the variable display device, the symbols other than the symbol that becomes the final stop symbol (for example, the middle symbol in the left, middle, and right symbols) continue for a predetermined period of time and stop and shake in a state that matches the specific display result. It can be a big hit before the final result is displayed because it is moving, scaling, or deforming, or multiple symbols change synchronously with the same symbol, or the position of the displayed symbol is switched. An effect performed in a state where the sex is continued (hereinafter, these states are referred to as reach states) is referred to as reach effect. Further, the reach state and its state are referred to as a reach mode. Furthermore, variable display including reach production is called reach variable display. Then, when the display result of the symbol variably displayed on the variable display device is not a specific display result, it becomes “out of” and the variability display state ends. A player plays a game while enjoying how to generate a big hit.

  In addition, an effect of notifying that there is a high possibility that a big hit or reach (particularly super reach) will occur is called a notice effect. The reach effect is an effect when the symbols other than the symbol that will be the final stop symbol are aligned, but the notice effect is an effect that is different from the reach effect and before the symbols other than the symbol that will be the final stop symbol are aligned Naturally, it can be executed even after the symbols other than the symbols to be the final stop symbols are prepared.

  In such gaming machines, there is one configured so that a special display mode (motif mode) indicating that there is a high possibility of being a big hit appears in a notice effect or the like. For example, Patent Document 1 is configured to cause a special display mode (motif mode) to appear in a step-up notification effect or a button notification effect, and to limit the number of appearances of the special display mode (motif mode) in the case of a loss. The gaming machines that have been played are described. Further, in Patent Document 1, when limiting the number of appearances of special display modes (motif modes), for example, the priority order is set so that the priority of the notice effect with low appearance frequency is high, and the special display mode ( It is described that the number of occurrences of the motif aspect) is limited.

JP 2013-138812 A

  However, in the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, since the number of notice effects to be executed is restricted according to a predetermined priority order, the restriction method is fixed, and the design relating to the notice effect is flexible. I can't.

  SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can be flexibly designed for a notice effect.

(Means 1) A gaming machine according to the present invention is a gaming machine that performs variable display and can be controlled to an advantageous state (for example, a big hit gaming state) advantageous to a player, and determines a variable display pattern. And a variable display executing means for executing variable display based on the determination result by the variable display pattern determining means, and a plurality of notice effects (for example, in addition to the first notice effect to the fourth notice effect in this example, the jackpot type) A notice effect determining means (for example, a microcomputer for effect control) for determining a notice effect to be executed out of a notice effect or a pre-read notice effect or the like for notifying that the event is a probable big hit or being controlled to the latent probability change state The part that executes steps S5001 to S5004 in 100) and the preview performance that executes the preview effect determined to be executed by the preview effect determining means A plurality of priority rules (in this example, the priority order of the notice effect differs according to the determination result by the variable display pattern determination means), for example, a portion for executing steps S506 and S845 in the production control microcomputer 100 Then, according to any of the priority rules shown in the priority rule table of FIG. 36 (C), the number of notice effects to be executed is less than a predetermined number (in this example, the upper limit number or less. The upper limit number is a variable number). (E.g., a portion of steps S5005 to S5007 in the production control microcomputer 100).
With such a configuration, it is possible to make a flexible design regarding the notice effect, and to improve the game entertainment .

(Means 2) In the means 1, a specific display result predetermined in variable display means for variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information (for example, the first special symbol, the second special symbol, and the effect symbol) that can be identified with each other ( For example, a gaming machine that is controlled to be in an advantageous state when a jackpot symbol is derived and displayed, and determines whether or not to obtain a specific display result before the display result of the identification information is derived and displayed. (For example, a part for executing step S61 in the game control microcomputer 560) and a variable display pattern determination unit (for example, a variable pattern) for determining a variable display pattern (for example, a variation pattern) of identification information based on a determination result by the prior determination unit. For example, the part for executing step S105 in the game control microcomputer 560) and the variable display pattern determination means Variable display executing means for executing variable display of the identification information based on the fixed result (for example, a part for executing steps S506 and S845 in the effect control microcomputer 100), and the notice effect determining means is a variable display pattern A notice effect that is executed according to a different priority rule (in this example, one of the first to fourth priority rules shown in the priority rule table of FIG. 36C) according to the determination result by the determination means. The notice effect may be determined so that the number of the images is less than a predetermined number (for example, the portion of steps S5006 to S5007 in the effect control microcomputer 100).
According to such a configuration, the design related to the notice effect can be made more flexible, and the game entertainment can be improved.

(Means 3) A gaming machine which is controlled in an advantageous state when a predetermined specific display result is derived and displayed on variable display means for variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information which can be identified by means 1 or means 2 The variable display pattern determining means for determining the variable display pattern of the identification information and the variable display executing means for executing the variable display of the identification information based on the determination result by the variable display pattern determining means. The pattern is a re-variable display in which a variable display of the identification information is executed again after a temporary stop from the start of the variable display of the identification information until the display result of the identification information is derived and displayed. Including a pattern (for example, a variation pattern with pseudo-continuous effects), the notice effect determining means determines the re-variable display pattern by the variable display pattern determining means. The priority order of the notice effect (in this example, the fourth notice effect (pseudo-continuous notice effect)) for notifying that the re-variable display is executed as compared with the other priority rules among the plurality of priority rules. Notice effect such that the number of notice effects executed in accordance with the priority rule having a high value (in this example, the priority rule of the third pattern or the fourth pattern shown in the priority rule table of FIG. 36C) is less than a predetermined number. (For example, a portion of steps S5006 to S5007 in the production control microcomputer 100).
According to such a configuration, the design related to the notice effect can be made more flexible, and the game entertainment can be improved.

(Means 4) In the means 1 to 3, the notice effect executing means has less than a predetermined number of notice effects according to the priority rule among the notice effects determined to be executed among the plurality of notice effects by the notice effect determining means. It may be configured to execute (for example, a portion in which steps S5001 to S5004 in the production control microcomputer 100 are executed and then steps S5005 to S5007 are executed).
According to such a configuration, the processing routine can be shared.

(Means 5) In the means 1 to 4, a specific effect (for example, simultaneous effect) for outputting at least sound is executed based on the time measurement means (for example, realized by the real time clock 108) and the time measurement result of the time measurement means. Specific effect executing means (for example, a part for executing step S811 in the effect control microcomputer 100) and volume adjusting means (for example, realized by the operation button 120) enabling the player to adjust the sound volume. The specific effect executing means can be configured to change the volume adjusted by the sound volume adjusting means and execute the specific effect (for example, a part for executing steps S5104a and S5114a in the effect control microcomputer 100). May be.
According to such a structure, a specific effect can be performed suitably and game entertainment can be improved.

(Means 6) A gaming machine which is controlled to an advantageous state when a predetermined specific display result is derived and displayed on variable display means for variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information that can be distinguished from each other in means 1 to means 5. And determining whether or not a specific display result is to be obtained before the display result of the identification information is derived and displayed, and a variable display pattern of the identification information based on the determination result by the prior determination means. A variable display pattern determining means for determining, and variable display executing means for executing variable display of identification information based on a determination result by the variable display pattern determining means, and a predetermined number (in this example, an upper limit number which is a variable number). ) May be different depending on the variable display pattern (see FIG. 36A).
According to such a configuration, it is possible to make a flexible design relating to the notice effect according to the variable display pattern, and it is possible to improve the game entertainment.

(Means 7) In the means 1 to 6, the notice effect executing means derives and displays the display form of the notice effect as a normal display form (in this example, a normal effect form) or a specific display result than the normal display form. As a special display mode (in this example, an arabesque motif mode) that indicates that there is a high possibility and a common motif mode appears in some or all of the preview screens, it is possible to execute the preview effect (for example, The portion for executing steps S849, S853, and S856 in the production control microcomputer 100 may be configured.
According to such a configuration, it is possible to make a flexible design related to the notice effect, and to improve the game entertainment.

It is the front view which looked at the pachinko game machine from the front. It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structural example of a game control board (main board). It is a block diagram showing an example of circuit configuration of an effect control board, a lamp driver board and an audio output board. It is a flowchart which shows the main process which CPU in the microcomputer for game control performs. It is a flowchart which shows a 2 ms timer interruption process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the variation pattern of the production | presentation symbol prepared beforehand. It is explanatory drawing which shows each random number. It is explanatory drawing which shows a big hit determination table, a small hit determination table, and a big hit type determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows the variation pattern classification determination table for big hits. It is explanatory drawing which shows the variation pattern classification determination table for deviation. It is explanatory drawing which shows a hit fluctuation pattern determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows a deviation variation pattern determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the content of an effect control command. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows a starting port switch passage process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of a pending | holding storage specific information storage area (holding specific area). It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol normal process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol normal process. It is a flowchart which shows a fluctuation pattern setting process. It is a flowchart which shows a display result specific command transmission process. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol change process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol stop process. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit end process. It is a flowchart which shows the presentation control main process which CPU for presentation control performs. It is a flowchart which shows a command analysis process. It is a flowchart which shows a command analysis process. It is a flowchart which shows a command analysis process. It is a flowchart which shows a time measurement process. It is a flowchart which shows production control process processing. It is a flowchart which shows simultaneous production processing. It is a flowchart which shows a fluctuation pattern command reception waiting process. It is a flowchart which shows an effect design fluctuation start process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of process data. It is a flowchart which shows a notification effect setting process. It is explanatory drawing which shows a notification effect execution determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows a notice effect upper limit number determination table, a priority rule determination table, a priority rule table, and an effect mode determination table. It is a flowchart which shows the process during effect design change. It is a flowchart which shows an effect design fluctuation stop process. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit display process. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit end effect process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example of the 1st notice effect (mini-character notice effect) and the 2nd notice effect (step-up notice effect). It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example in which an arabesque motif aspect appears when the 1st notice effect (mini-character notice effect) is performed. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example in which an arabesque motif aspect appears when the 2nd notice effect (step-up notice effect) is performed. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example of a 3rd notice effect (button notice effect). It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example of a 4th notice effect (pseudo continuous notice effect).

Embodiment 1 FIG.
DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, a first embodiment of the invention will be described with reference to the drawings. First, the overall configuration of a pachinko gaming machine 1 that is an example of a gaming machine will be described. FIG. 1 is a front view of the pachinko gaming machine 1 as seen from the front.

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

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

  An effect display device 9 composed of a liquid crystal display device (LCD) is provided near the center of the game area 7. The circular display screen of the effect display device 9 includes an effect symbol display area for performing variable display of the effect symbol in synchronization with the variable display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol. Therefore, the effect display device 9 corresponds to a variable display device that performs variable display of effect symbols. The effect symbol display area includes a symbol display area for variably displaying, for example, three decorative (effect) effect symbols of “left”, “middle”, and “right”. In the symbol display area, there are “left”, “middle”, and “right” symbol display areas (see symbol display areas 9L, 9C, and 9R in FIG. 156, etc.). The display screen of the device 9 may not be fixed, and the three areas of the symbol display area may be separated. The effect display device 9 is controlled by an effect control microcomputer mounted on the effect control board. When the first special symbol display 8a is executing variable display of the first special symbol, the effect control microcomputer causes the effect display device 9 to execute the effect display along with the variable display, and the second special symbol display 8a executes the second special display. When the variable display of the second special symbol is executed on the symbol display 8b, the effect display is executed by the effect display device 9 along with the variable display, so that the progress of the game can be easily grasped. .

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

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

  Hereinafter, the first special symbol and the second special symbol may be collectively referred to as a special symbol, and the first special symbol indicator 8a and the second special symbol indicator 8b are collectively referred to as a special symbol indicator (variable display unit). There are things to do.

  For the variable display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol, the first start condition or the second start condition, which is the variable display execution condition, is satisfied (for example, the game ball has the first start winning opening 13 or the second start winning opening) 14), a variable display start condition (for example, when the number of reserved memories is not 0 and the variable display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol is not executed) , A state where the big hit game is not executed) is established, and when the variable display time elapses, a display result (stop symbol) is derived and displayed. Note that winning means that a game ball has passed through a predetermined area such as a winning opening. Deriving and displaying a display result is to stop and display a symbol (an example of identification information) (excluding stop before so-called re-variation). In this embodiment, the variable display start condition is established in the order in which the start prizes are generated regardless of the prizes in the first start prize slot 13 and the second start prize slot 14. The variable display start condition may be established by giving priority to one of winning in the winning opening 13 and winning in the second start winning opening 14. For example, when giving priority to winning in the first start winning opening 13, the variable display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol is not executed, and the big hit game is not executed. For example, even when the second reserved memory number is not zero, the variable display of the first special symbol is continuously executed until the first reserved memory number becomes zero.

  In the vicinity of the first special symbol display 8a, during the variable display time of the first special symbol by the first special symbol display 8a, the variable display of the first decorative symbol as a decorative (design) symbol is performed. A first decorative symbol display 9a is provided. In this embodiment, the first decorative symbol display 9a is composed of two LEDs. The first decorative symbol display 9a is controlled by an effect control microcomputer mounted on the effect control board. Further, in the vicinity of the second special symbol display 8b, during the variable display time of the second special symbol by the second special symbol display 8b, the variable display of the second decorative symbol as a symbol for decoration (production) is performed. There is provided a second decorative symbol display 9b. The second decorative symbol display 9b is composed of two LEDs. The second decorative symbol display 9b is controlled by an effect control microcomputer mounted on the effect control board.

  The first decorative symbol and the second decorative symbol may be collectively referred to as a decorative symbol, and the first decorative symbol display 9a and the second decorative symbol display 9b may be collectively referred to as a decorative symbol display. .

  The variation of the decorative pattern (variable display) is realized by continuing the state where the two LEDs are alternately lit. The variable display of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display 8a and the variable display of the first decorative symbol on the first decorative symbol display 9a are synchronized. The variable display of the second special symbol on the second special symbol display 8b is synchronized with the variable display of the second decorative symbol on the second decorative symbol display 9b. Synchronous means that the variable display start time and end time are the same, and the variable display period is the same. In addition, when the big hit symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a, the LED on the side that recalls the big hit on the first decorative symbol display 9a remains lit. When the big-hit symbol is stopped and displayed on the second special symbol display 8b, the LED on the side that recalls the big-hit on the second decorative symbol display 9b remains lit. The functions of the first decorative symbol display 9a and the second decorative symbol display 9b may be realized by the effect display device 9. That is, the first decorative symbol and the second decorative symbol may be controlled to be variably displayed as images on the display screen of the effect display device 9.

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

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

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

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

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

  On the side of the first decorative symbol display 9a, the number of effective winning balls that have entered the first start winning opening 13, that is, the first reserved memory number (the reserved memory is also referred to as the start memory or the start prize memory) is displayed. A first special symbol storage memory display 18a comprising four displays is provided. The first special symbol storage memory indicator 18a increases the number of indicators to be lit by 1 each time there is an effective start winning. Then, each time the variable display on the first special symbol display 8a is started, the number of indicators to be turned on is reduced by one.

  On the side of the second decorative symbol display 9b is a second special symbol reserved memory display 18b comprising four indicators for displaying the number of effective winning balls that have entered the second start winning opening 14, that is, the second reserved memory number. Is provided. The second special symbol storage memory display 18b increases the number of indicators to be lit by 1 every time there is an effective start winning. Then, each time the variable display on the second special symbol display 8b is started, the number of indicators to be turned on is reduced by one.

  In addition, the display screen of the effect display device 9 displays an area (hereinafter referred to as a summed pending storage display unit 18c) that displays a total number (total number of pending pending memories) that is the sum of the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory number. .) Is provided. Since the summation pending storage display unit 18c for displaying the total number is provided, it is possible to easily grasp the total number of execution conditions that have not met the variable display start condition. In addition, since the 1st special symbol holding | maintenance memory | storage display 18a and the 2nd special symbol holding | maintenance memory | storage display 18b are provided, the total reservation memory | storage display part 18c does not necessarily need to be provided.

  The effect display device 9 is for decoration (for effects) during the variable display time of the first special symbol by the first special symbol display 8a and during the variable display time of the second special symbol by the second special symbol display 8b. A variable display of the effect symbol as the symbol is performed. The variable display of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display 8a and the variable display of the effect symbol on the effect display device 9 are synchronized. Further, the variable display of the second special symbol on the second special symbol display 8b and the variable display of the effect symbol on the effect display device 9 are synchronized. Further, when the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a and when the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed on the second special symbol display 8b, the effect display device 9 reminds the jackpot The combination of is stopped and displayed.

  On the left side of the decorative portion around the effect display device 9, a movable member 78 that is attached to the rotation shaft of the motor 86 and moves when the motor 86 rotates is provided. The movable member 78 operates, for example, when a pseudo-continuous effect or a notice effect is executed. Further, in the decorative portion around the effect display device 9, a blade-shaped movable member (hereinafter referred to as an effect blade accessory) that is attached to the rotating shaft of the motor 87 and moves when the motor 87 rotates is provided below the left and right. 79a and 79b are provided. The effect blades 79a and 79b operate, for example, when a notice effect is executed.

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

  The game area 6 is also provided with winning ports (ordinary winning ports) 29, 30, 33, and 39 for paying out a predetermined number of premium game balls determined in advance based on winning of the game balls. The game balls won in the winning openings 29, 30, 33, 39 are detected by the winning opening switches 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a.

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

  When the game ball passes through the gate 32 and is detected by the gate switch 32a, variable display of the normal symbol display 10 is started. In this embodiment, variable display is performed by alternately lighting the upper and lower lamps (the symbols can be visually recognized when turned on). For example, if the lower lamp is turned on at the end of the variable display, it is a hit. . When the stop symbol on the normal symbol display 10 is a predetermined symbol (winning symbol), the variable winning ball device 15 is opened for a predetermined number of times. In other words, the state of the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is a state that is advantageous from a disadvantageous state for the player when the normal symbol is a stop symbol (a state in which a game ball can be awarded at the second start winning port 14). To change. In the vicinity of the normal symbol display 10, a normal symbol holding storage display 41 having a display unit with four LEDs for displaying the number of winning balls that have passed through the gate 32 is provided. Each time there is a game ball passing through the gate 32, that is, every time a game ball is detected by the gate switch 32a, the normal symbol storage memory display 41 increases the number of LEDs to be turned on by one. Each time variable display on the normal symbol display 10 is started, the number of LEDs to be lit is reduced by one. Further, in the probability variation state where the probability of being determined to be a big hit as compared to the normal state is high, the probability that the stop symbol in the normal symbol display 10 becomes a winning symbol is increased, and the variable winning ball apparatus 15 Opening time and opening times are increased. Even in the short state (the game state in which the variable display time of the special symbol is shortened) when the symbol variation time is shortened although it is not the probability variation state, the opening time and the number of times of opening of the variable winning ball device 15 are increased.

  On the left and right sides of the game area 7 of the game board 6, there are provided decorative LEDs 25 that are displayed blinking during the game, and at the lower part there is an outlet 26 for taking in a hit ball that has not won. In addition, two speakers 27 that utter sound effects and sounds as predetermined sound outputs are provided on the left and right upper portions outside the game area 7. On the outer periphery of the game area 7, a frame LED 28 provided on the front frame is provided.

  The members constituting the hitting ball supply tray 3 are provided with operation buttons 120 as operation means that can be operated by the player. The operation button 120 is provided with a push button switch that can be pressed by the player. The operation button 120 is provided not only with a push button switch that can be pressed by the player, but also with a dial that can be rotated by the player. The player can perform a predetermined selection (for example, selection of effects, change of sound effect or sound volume) by rotating the dial.

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

  When the game ball enters the second start winning opening 14 and is detected by the second start opening switch 14a, if the variable display of the second special symbol can be started (for example, the special symbol variable display ends, 2), the second special symbol display 8b starts variable display (variation) of the second special symbol, and the second decorative symbol display 9b displays variable display of the second decorative symbol. The effect display device 9 starts variable display of effect symbols. That is, the variable display of the second special symbol, the second decorative symbol, and the effect symbol corresponds to winning in the second start winning opening 14. If the variable display of the second special symbol cannot be started, the second reserved memory number is increased by 1 on condition that the second reserved memory number has not reached the upper limit value.

  In this embodiment, when the gaming state is shifted to the probability changing state, the gaming state is shifted to the high probability state, and the game ball is likely to start and win (that is, the special symbol indicators 8a and 8b and the effect display device). 9 is shifted to the high base state, which is a gaming state controlled so that the variable display execution condition at 9 is easily established. In addition, when the gaming state is shifted to the short time state, the state is shifted to the high base state. In the high base state, for example, the frequency at which the variable winning ball device 15 is in the open state is increased or the time in which the variable winning ball device 15 is in the open state is extended compared to the case in which the high base state is not in the high base state. It becomes easier to win a start.

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

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

  In addition, the change time of special symbols and production symbols will be shortened by shifting to the short time state when the variation time (variable display period) of special symbols and production symbols is shortened. (In other words, the digestion of the stored memory becomes faster), and as a result, it is easier to start a winning and the possibility of playing a big hit game is increased.

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

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

  The RAM 55 is a backup RAM as a non-volatile storage means, part or all of which is backed up by a backup power source created on the power supply substrate 910. That is, even if the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, a part or all of the contents of the RAM 55 is stored for a predetermined period (until the capacitor as the backup power supply is discharged and the backup power supply cannot be supplied). In particular, at least data (a special symbol process flag or the like) corresponding to the game state, that is, the control state of the game control means, and data indicating the number of unpaid winning balls are stored in the backup RAM. The data corresponding to the control state of the game control means is data necessary for restoring the control state before the occurrence of a power failure or the like based on the data when the power is restored after a power failure or the like occurs. Further, data corresponding to the control state and data indicating the number of unpaid prize balls are defined as data indicating the progress state of the game. In this embodiment, it is assumed that the entire RAM 55 is backed up.

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

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

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

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

  Further, an input driver circuit 58 for supplying detection signals from the gate switch 32a, the start port switch 13a, the count switch 23, and the winning port switches 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a to the game control microcomputer 560 is also mounted on the main board 31. Yes. The main board also includes an output circuit 59 for driving the solenoid 16 for opening and closing the variable winning ball device 15 and the solenoid 21 for opening and closing the special variable winning ball device 20 that forms a big winning opening in accordance with a command from the game control microcomputer 560. 31.

  In addition, the game control microcomputer 560 includes a first special symbol display 8a, a second special symbol display 8b that variably displays special symbols, a normal symbol display 10 that variably displays normal symbols, and a first special symbol hold memory. Display control of the display 18a, the second special symbol storage memory display 18b, and the normal symbol storage memory display 41 is performed.

  An information output circuit (not shown) that outputs an information output signal such as jackpot information indicating the occurrence of a jackpot gaming state to an external device such as a hall computer is also mounted on the main board 31.

  In this embodiment, the effect control means (configured by the effect control microcomputer) mounted on the effect control board 80 instructs the effect contents from the game control microcomputer 560 via the relay board 77. Upon receiving the effect control command, display control is performed on the first decorative symbol display device 9a and the second decorative symbol display device 9b that variably display the decorative symbol, and the effect display device 9 that variably displays the effect symbol.

  In addition, the effect control means mounted on the effect control board 80 controls the display of the decoration LED 25 provided on the game board and the frame LED 28 provided on the frame side via the lamp driver board 35. The sound output from the speaker 27 is controlled via the sound output board 70.

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

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

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

  In addition, the production control board 80 is equipped with a real time clock 108. The real-time clock 108 has a function of outputting time information including information on year / month / day / day of the week and hour / minute / second.

  The effect control CPU 101 outputs to the VDP 109 a command for reading out necessary data from a CGROM (not shown) in accordance with the received effect control command. The CGROM stores character image data and moving image data displayed on the effect display device 9, specifically, a person, characters, figures, symbols (including effect symbols), and background image data in advance. ROM. The VDP 109 reads image data from the CGROM in response to the instruction from the effect control CPU 101. The VDP 109 executes display control based on the read image data.

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

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

  The effect control CPU 101 drives the motor 86 to operate the movable member 78 via the output port 106. Further, the effect control CPU 101 drives a motor 87 for operating the effect blades 79 a and 79 b via the output port 106.

  Further, the effect control CPU 101 inputs a signal from the operation button 120 via the input port 107 in response to a pressing operation of the operation button 120 by the player.

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

  In the lamp driver board 35, a signal for driving the LED is input to the LED driver 352 via the input driver 351. The LED driver 352 supplies a current to a light emitter provided on the frame side such as the frame LED 28 based on a signal for driving the LED. Further, an electric current is supplied to the decoration LED 25 provided on the game board side.

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

  In this embodiment, sound effects and sound volumes are changed according to the operation of the operation buttons 120 by the player. For example, when the player performs an operation (such as a dial rotation operation) for decreasing the volume using the operation button 120, the volume set in the volume 706 is changed.

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

  In the initial setting process, the CPU 56 first sets the interrupt prohibition (step S1). Next, the interrupt mode is set to interrupt mode 2 (step S2), and a stack pointer designation address is set to the stack pointer (step S3). Then, after initialization of the built-in device (CTC (counter / timer) and PIO (parallel input / output port) which are built-in devices (built-in peripheral circuits)) is performed (step S4), the RAM 55 is accessible. (Step S5). In the interrupt mode 2, the address synthesized from the value (1 byte) of the specific register (I register) built in the CPU 56 and the interrupt vector (1 byte: least significant bit 0) output from the built-in device is This mode indicates an interrupt address.

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

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

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

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

  Further, the CPU 56 transmits a power failure restoration designation command (power failure restoration 1 designation command) as an initialization command at the time of power supply restoration to the effect control board 80 (step S43). Then, the process proceeds to step S14.

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

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

  By the processing in steps S11 and S12, an initial value is set to a flag for selectively performing processing according to the control state, such as a special symbol process flag.

  Further, the CPU 56 initializes a sub board (a board on which a microcomputer other than the main board 31 is mounted) (a command indicating that the game control microcomputer 560 has executed an initialization process). Is also transmitted to the effect control board 80 (step S13). For example, when the effect control microcomputer 100 mounted on the effect control board 80 receives the initialization designation command, the effect display device 9 displays a screen for notifying that the control of the gaming machine has been initialized. Display, that is, initialization notification. In the initialization process, the CPU 56 also transmits a customer waiting demonstration designation (demonstration) command.

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

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

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

  When the timer interrupt occurs, the CPU 56 executes the timer interrupt process of steps S20 to S34 shown in FIG. In the timer interrupt process, first, a power-off detection process for detecting whether or not a power-off signal is output (whether or not an on-state is turned on) is executed (step S20). The power-off signal is output, for example, when the power monitoring circuit 920 mounted on the power board detects a decrease in the voltage of the power supplied to the gaming machine. In the power-off detection process, when detecting that the power-off signal has been output, the CPU 56 executes a power supply stop process for saving necessary data in the backup RAM area. Next, detection signals from the gate switch 32a, the first start port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a, the count switch 23, and the winning port switches 29a, 30a, 33a, and 39a are input via the input driver circuit 58, These state determinations are performed (switch processing: step S21).

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

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

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

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

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

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

  Further, the CPU 56 performs prize ball processing for setting the number of prize balls based on detection signals from the first start port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a, the count switch 23, and the winning port switches 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a. Execute (Step S30). Specifically, the payout control is performed in accordance with winning detection based on any one of the first starting port switch 13a, the second starting port switch 14a, the count switch 23, and the winning port switches 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a being turned on. A payout control command (award ball number signal) indicating the number of winning balls is output to a payout control microcomputer mounted on the substrate 37. The payout control microcomputer drives the ball payout device 97 in accordance with a payout control command indicating the number of winning balls.

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

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

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

  Thereafter, the interrupt permission state is set (step S34), and the process is terminated.

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

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

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

  In this embodiment, when the big win symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b, the reach effect is executed after the variable display state of the effect symbol becomes the reach state. Or the reach effect is not executed, and the effect symbols are all stopped and displayed in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” symbol display areas 9L, 9C, and 9R on the effect display device 9.

  When “5”, which is a small hit symbol, is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b, the effect display variable display mode of the effect display device 9 is “accurate”. After the effect symbols are variably displayed as in a case, a predetermined non-reach combination (for example, the stop symbols in the “left” and “right” symbol display areas 9L and 9R do not match) In some cases, a stop symbol that becomes a stop display is displayed, or a stop symbol that is a predetermined reach combination is stopped and displayed. A display effect in the effect display device 9 corresponding to the fact that “5” as a small hit symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b, and a variable display mode of “small hit”. .

  FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing the variation pattern of the effect symbol prepared in advance. As shown in FIG. 6, in this embodiment, the non-reach PA 1-1 to the non-reach are used as a variation pattern corresponding to the case where the variable display result is “out of” and the variable display mode of the effect design is “non-reach”. A variation pattern of reach PA1-4 is prepared. Further, normal PA2-1 to normal PA2-2, normal PB2-1 to normal PB2-2 are variations patterns corresponding to the case where the variable display result is “out of” and the variable display mode of the effect symbol is “reach”. Fluctuation patterns of Super PA3-1 to Super PA3-2 and Super PB3-1 to Super PB3-2 are prepared. Note that, as shown in FIG. 6, re-variation is performed once for the variation pattern of the non-reach PA 1-4 that is used when the reach is not performed and is accompanied by a pseudo-continuous effect. Of the variation patterns used for reaching and accompanied by pseudo-rendition, when normal PB2-1 is used, re-variation is performed once. Of the variation patterns that are used for reaching and have a pseudo-continuous effect, when normal PB2-2 is used, re-variation is performed twice. Furthermore, when using super PA3-1 to super PA3-2 among the fluctuation patterns used for reaching and accompanied by pseudo-rendition effects, re-variation is performed three times. Note that the re-variation means that the variable display of the effect symbol is executed again after temporarily stopping the effect symbol that is once deviated from the start of the variable display of the effect symbol until the display result is derived and displayed. .

  Also, as shown in FIG. 6, in this embodiment, normal PA2-3 to normal PA2-4, normal PB2 are used as the variation patterns corresponding to the case where the variable symbol display result of the special symbol is a big hit symbol or a small hit symbol. -3 to Normal PB2-4, Super PA3-3 to SuperPA3-4, Super PB3-3 to Super PB3-4, Special PG1-1 to Special PG1-3, Special PG2-1 to Special PG2-2 Is prepared. In FIG. 6, the fluctuation patterns of special PG1-1 to special PG1-3 and special PG2-1 to special PG2-2 are fluctuation patterns used when sudden probability change big hit or small hit. Further, as shown in FIG. 6, when the normal PB2-3 is used among the fluctuation patterns that are used when the sudden sudden change is not big hit or small hit and has a pseudo-continuous effect, the re-variation is performed once. Of the fluctuation patterns used for reaching and accompanied by pseudo-continuous effects, when normal PB2-4 is used, re-variation is performed twice. Furthermore, when using super PA3-3 to super PA3-4 among the fluctuation patterns that are used for reaching and have the effect of pseudo-ream, re-variation is performed three times. In addition, for the variation pattern of the special PG 1-3 that is used in the case of sudden probability big hit or small hit and has a pseudo-continuous effect, re-variation is performed once.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6, when the variation time is fixedly determined according to the type of reach (for example, the variation time is 32 in the case of Super Reach A with pseudo-ream). In the case of Super Reach A without pseudo-ream, the fluctuation time is fixed at 22.75 seconds). For example, even in the case of the same type of Super Reach Depending on the total number of pending storage, the variation time may be varied. For example, even with the same type of super reach, the variation time may be shortened as the total number of pending storage increases. Also, for example, even in the case of the same type of super reach, when the variable display of the first special symbol is performed, the variable time may be varied according to the first reserved memory number. When the variable display of the two special symbols is performed, the variable time may be varied according to the second reserved memory number. In this case, a separate determination table is prepared for each value of the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory number (for example, the variation pattern type determination table for the reserved memory numbers 0 to 2 and the reserved memory numbers 3 and 4). For example, a determination table may be selected according to the value of the first reserved memory number or the second reserved memory number, and the change time may be varied.

FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing each random number. Each random number is used as follows.
(2) Random 2 (MR2): Determines the type of jackpot (probability jackpot, sudden probability change jackpot, normal jackpot) (for jackpot type judgment)
(3) Random 3 (MR3): The type (type) of the variation pattern is determined (for variation pattern type determination)
(4) Random 4 (MR4): A variation pattern (variation time) is determined (for variation pattern determination)
(5) Random 5 (MR5): Determines whether or not to generate a hit based on the normal symbol (for normal symbol hit determination)
(6) Random 6 (MR6): Determine the initial value of random 5 (for determining the initial value of random 5)

  In this embodiment, the variation pattern is first determined using the variation pattern type determination random number (random 3), and then the variation pattern determined using the variation pattern determination random number (random 4). One of the variation patterns included in the pattern type is determined. Thus, in this embodiment, the variation pattern is determined by a two-stage lottery process.

  The variation pattern type is a group of a plurality of variation patterns according to the characteristics of the variation mode. For example, a plurality of variation patterns are grouped by reach type, and include a variation pattern type including a variation pattern with normal reach, a variation pattern type including a variation pattern with super reach A, and a variation pattern with super reach B. It may be divided into variable pattern types. Further, for example, a plurality of variation patterns are grouped by the number of re-variations of pseudo-continuations, a variation pattern type including a variation pattern without pseudo-ream, a variation pattern type including a variation pattern of one re-variation, It may be divided into a variation pattern type including a variation pattern of two variations and a variation pattern type including a variation pattern of three variations. Further, for example, a plurality of variation patterns may be grouped according to the presence / absence of a specific effect such as a pseudo ream or a slip effect.

  In step S23 in the game control process shown in FIG. 5, the game control microcomputer 560 uses a counter for generating the jackpot type determination random number (2) and the random number for determination per ordinary symbol in (5). Count up (add 1). That is, they are determination random numbers, and other random numbers are display random numbers (random 3, random 4) or initial value random numbers (random 6). In addition, in order to improve a game effect, you may use random numbers other than said random number. In this embodiment, a random number generated by hardware incorporated in the game control microcomputer 560 (or hardware external to the game control microcomputer 560) is used as the jackpot determination random number.

  8A and 8B are explanatory diagrams showing a big hit determination table. The jackpot determination table is a collection of data stored in the ROM 54 and is a table in which a jackpot determination value to be compared with the random R is set. The jackpot determination table includes a normal-time jackpot determination table used in a normal state (a gaming state that is not a probability change state) and a probability change jackpot determination table used in a probability change state. Each numerical value described in the left column of FIG. 8 (A) and each numerical value described in FIG. 8 (B) are set in the normal jackpot determination table. Each numerical value described in the right column of (A) and each numerical value described in FIG. 8 (B) are set. The numerical values described in FIGS. 8A and 8B are the big hit determination value or the small hit determination value. Hereinafter, the big hit determination value and the small hit determination value may be collectively expressed as “big hit determination value”.

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

  FIG. 8C is an explanatory diagram showing a jackpot type determination table 131 stored in the ROM 54. When the determination that the variable display result is a jackpot symbol is made, the jackpot type determination table 131 determines that the jackpot type is “normal jackpot” or “probability jackpot” based on a random number (random 2) for determining the jackpot type. ”, A table that is referred to in order to determine one of the“ surprise big hit ”. The big hit type determination table 131 is a numerical value to be compared with a random 2 value, and sets a determination value (big hit type determination value) corresponding to each of “normal big hit”, “probability big hit”, and “crash big hit” Has been. When the value of random 2 matches any of the jackpot type determination values, the CPU 56 determines the jackpot type as a type corresponding to the matching jackpot type determination value.

  FIGS. 9A and 9B are explanatory diagrams showing the big hit variation pattern type determination tables 132A and 132B. The jackpot variation pattern type determination tables 132A and 132B, when it is determined that the variable display result is a jackpot symbol, the variation pattern type is determined according to the determination result of the jackpot type and a random number for determining the variation pattern type. It is a table that is referred to in order to determine one of a plurality of types based on (Random 3).

  Each of the big hit variation pattern type determination tables 132A and 132B includes a numerical value (determination value) to be compared with a random number (random 3) for variation pattern type determination, and includes normal CA3-1 to normal CA3-2, A determination value corresponding to any one of the variation pattern types of super CA3-3, special CA4-1, and special CA4-2 is set.

  In addition, about the super reach big hit, the variation pattern type (a variation pattern type including a variation pattern of Super PA3-3 and Super PA3-4) with a pseudo-ream and the variation pattern type (a super PB3-3, It may be divided into a variation pattern type including a variation pattern of PB3-4.

  Further, in the big hit variation pattern type determination table 132B used when the big hit type is “suddenly promising big hit”, for example, when the big hit types such as special CA4-1 and special CA4-2 are other than “suddenly probable big hit” A determination value is assigned to a variation pattern type to which no determination value is assigned. Therefore, when the variable display result is “big hit” and the big hit type becomes “suddenly promising big hit”, the variation pattern type can be determined differently from the case of “normal big hit” or “probable big hit”.

  FIG. 9C is an explanatory diagram showing a small hit variation pattern type determination table 132C. The variation pattern type determination table 132C for small hits has a plurality of types of variation pattern types based on random numbers (random 3) for variation pattern type determination when it is determined that the variable display result is a small hit symbol. It is a table that is referred to in order to determine any of the above. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 9C, when it is determined to be a small hit, the case where the special CA4-1 is determined as the variation pattern type is shown. .

  FIGS. 10A to 10C are explanatory diagrams showing the deviation variation pattern type determination tables 135A to 135C. FIG. 10A shows a loss variation pattern type determination table 135A used when the gaming state is the normal state and the total number of pending storages is less than three. FIG. 10B shows a loss variation pattern type determination table 135B used when the game state is the normal state and the total number of pending storages is 3 or more. Also, FIG. 10C shows a loss variation pattern type determination table 135C that is used when the gaming state is the short-time state. The deviation variation pattern type determination tables 135A to 135C have a plurality of variation pattern types based on a random number (random 3) for variation pattern type determination when it is determined that the variable display result is a loss symbol. It is a table that is referred to in order to determine any of the above.

  In the example shown in FIG. 10, the different variation pattern type determination tables 135B and 135C are used depending on whether the gaming state is the short-time state or the total pending storage number is 3 or more. A common deviation variation pattern type determination table may be used for the time-short state and for the case where the total number of pending storages is 3 or more. In addition, in the example shown in FIG. 10C, one short-time deviation variation pattern type determination table 135C is used, but a plurality of variable patterns corresponding to the total number of pending storages as a short-period state variation pattern type determination table. The deviation variation pattern determination table (a table with different ratios of determination values) may be used.

  In this embodiment, when the gaming state is the normal state, the deviation variation pattern type determination table 135A used when the total pending storage number is less than 3 and the total pending storage number is 3 or more. Two types of tables, the deviation variation pattern type determination table 135B used for the above, are used, but the method of dividing the variation variation pattern type determination table is not limited to the example shown in FIG. For example, a deviation variation pattern type determination table corresponding to a combination of a plurality of other values stored in the combined pending storage number may be used. As an example, a deviation variation pattern type determination table for the total pending storage number 0 to 2, for the total pending storage number 3, for the total pending storage number 4, and so on may be used. Further, a deviation variation pattern type determination table corresponding to each value of the total number of pending storages may be provided.

  Further, in this embodiment, a plurality of outlier variation pattern type determination tables are used according to the total number of reserved storage, but an outbreak variation pattern type determination table according to the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory number is used. You may make it use.

  Further, in this embodiment, when the total number of reserved storage is 3 or more, the variation pattern type determination table 135B shown in FIG. 10B is used, and the total number of reserved storage is 0 to 2 (3 In the case of the following, the deviation variation pattern type determination table 135A shown in FIG. 10A is used. As shown in FIG. 10, when the total number of pending storages is 3 or more, the ratio of reaching (normal reach, super reach) is smaller than when the total number of pending storages is 0-2. When the total number of pending storages is 3 or more, as shown in FIG. 10B, the non-reach CA 2-2 variation pattern type is selected and the non-reach PA 1-2 is a variation pattern of shortened variation. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the situation in which the operation rate of the variable display is reduced as much as possible by shortening the average fluctuation time as the total number of pending storage increases. When the deviation variation pattern type determination table according to the first reserved memory number or the second reserved memory number is used, that is, at the start of the variation of the first special symbol, it is deviated from a plurality according to the first reserved memory number. When the variation pattern type determination table is selected and the variation of the second special symbol is started, the variation pattern type determination table is selected from the plurality according to the second reserved memory number. The deviation variation pattern type determination table is configured so that a variation pattern with a short variation time is easily selected.

  Further, as shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B, since the same determination value is assigned to Super CA-7 regardless of the number of reserved memories, the determination when the start winning occurs has become super reach. Despite being determined to be, it will not be determined that the super reach will not be reached at the start of the fluctuation due to the change in the number of holds, and the notice effect for the super reach (for example, the continuous notice effect) was executed. Regardless, there will never be a situation where you will not be super reach.

  In this embodiment, in the variation pattern type determination table for loss, a common determination value (230˜) is used for the variation pattern type with super reach (super reach A, super reach B) regardless of the total number of pending storage. 251). Therefore, when the variation pattern type is determined (at the time of starting winning a prize, etc.), it can be easily determined whether or not it becomes super reach based on the value of the extracted variation pattern type determination random number (random 3). . That is, when it is determined whether or not a specific variable display pattern is obtained before the variable display start condition corresponding to the start prize is satisfied, the value of the random number for variation pattern type determination is within the common determination value range. The variation pattern type can be determined only by determining whether or not it is included.

  Note that the “specific variable display pattern” is not limited to a variation pattern with super reach, and is a variation pattern in which at least the expectation for the big hit is set high, and the player can have a sense of expectation for the big hit. . In addition, the “expected degree (reliability) for the big hit” is an appearance rate (probability) at which a big hit appears when variable display (for example, variable display with super reach) by the specific variable display pattern is executed. Show. For example, the expectation degree of jackpot when the variable display with super reach is executed is determined as (the rate at which super reach is executed when the jackpot is determined) / (when the jackpot is determined and out of place) Is calculated by calculating the rate at which super reach is performed on both.

  Each of the deviation variation pattern type determination tables 135A to 135B includes a numerical value (determination value) to be compared with a random number (random 3) value for variation pattern type determination, which is non-reach CA2-1 to non-reach CA2-. 3, a determination value corresponding to one of the variation pattern types of normal CA2-4 to normal CA2-6 and super CA2-7 is set.

  Also, as shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B, in this embodiment, when the game state is out of the normal state and the game state is the normal state, the value of the random number (random 3) for determining the variation pattern type If the value is 1 to 79, the fluctuation display of the normal fluctuation is executed at least without the reach (without the specific effect such as the pseudo-ream or the slide effect) regardless of the total number of reserved storage. That is, in this embodiment, at least a part of the variable display patterns other than the reach variable display pattern (variation pattern with reach) in the determination table (displacement variation pattern type determination table 135A, 135B). A common determination value (FIG. 10) regardless of the number stored in the hold storage means (the first hold storage buffer or the second hold storage buffer) (the first hold memory number, the second hold memory number, the combined hold memory number). In the example shown in (A) and (B), 1 to 79) are assigned. Note that the “variable display pattern other than the reach variable display pattern” means, for example, a variable display result without a reach, a specific effect such as a pseudo-ream or a slip effect, as shown in this embodiment. Is a variable display pattern (fluctuation pattern) that is used when the big hit is not a big hit.

  In this embodiment, a common big hit variation pattern type determination table is used in any gaming state, but different big hit variation pattern type determination tables are used depending on the probability variation state, the short time state, and the normal state. You may do it.

  FIGS. 11A and 11B are explanatory views showing hit variation pattern determination tables 137A and 137B stored in the ROM 54. FIG. The hit fluctuation pattern determination tables 137A and 137B determine the fluctuation pattern according to the determination result of the big hit type or the fluctuation pattern type when it is determined that the variable display result is “big hit” or “small hit”. This is a table that is referred to in order to determine a variation pattern as one of a plurality of types based on a random number (random 4).

  Each hit variation pattern determination table 137A, 137B is selected according to the determination result of the variation pattern type. That is, when it is determined that the variation pattern type is any one of normal CA3-1 to normal CA3-2 and super CA3-3, the hit variation pattern determination table 137A is selected. When it is decided to change the variation pattern type to either special CA4-1 or special CA4-2, the hit variation pattern determination table 137B is selected. Each hit variation pattern determination table 137A to 137B includes a numerical value (determination value) to be compared with a random number (random 4) for variation pattern determination according to the variation pattern type, and a variable display result of the effect symbol. Data (determination value) corresponding to any of a plurality of types of variation patterns corresponding to the case where is a “big hit” is set.

  In the hit variation pattern determination table 137A shown in FIG. 11A, the variation pattern type is a normal CA3-1 that is a variation pattern type including a variation pattern with only normal reach, and a variation pattern with normal reach and pseudo-continuity. It is classified into a normal CA3-2 which is a variation pattern type including a super CA3-3 and a super CA3-3 which is a variation pattern type including a variation pattern accompanied by a super reach (which may be accompanied by a pseudo-ream). Further, in the hit variation pattern determination table 137B shown in FIG. 11B, the variation pattern type includes a special CA4-1 that is a variation pattern type including a non-reach variation pattern, and a variation pattern type that includes a variation pattern with reach. Are classified into special CA4-2. In FIG. 11B, the variation pattern type may be divided according to the presence / absence of a specific effect such as a pseudo-ream or a slip effect instead of being classified according to the presence / absence of reach. In that case, for example, the special CA 4-1 includes the special PG 1-1 and the special PG 2-1 which are the variation patterns not accompanied by the specific effect, and the special CA 4-2 is the special PG 1-2 accompanied by the specific effect. The special PG1-3 and the special PG2-2 may be included.

  FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram showing a deviation variation pattern determination table 138A stored in the ROM 54. As shown in FIG. The deviation variation pattern determination table 138A is based on the random number (random 4) for variation pattern determination according to the determination result of the variation pattern type when it is determined that the variable display result is “out of range”. It is a table referred to in order to determine any one of a plurality of types of variation patterns. The deviation variation pattern determination table 138A is selected as a usage table according to the determination result of the variation pattern type.

  FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the contents of the effect control command transmitted by the game control microcomputer 560. In the example shown in FIG. 13, the command 80XX (H) is an effect control command (variation pattern command) for designating a variation pattern of the effect symbol variably displayed on the effect display device 9 in response to the variable display of the special symbol. (Corresponding to variation pattern XX, respectively). That is, when a unique number is assigned to each variation pattern that can be used, there is a variation pattern command corresponding to each variation pattern specified by the number. “(H)” indicates a hexadecimal number. The effect control command for designating the variation pattern is also a command for designating the start of variation. Therefore, upon receiving the command 80XX (H), the effect control microcomputer 100 controls the first decorative symbol display 9a or the second decorative symbol display 9b so as to start the decorative symbol variable display, and the effect display device. In step 9, control is performed so as to start variable display of effect symbols.

  The commands 8C01 (H) to 8C05 (H) are effect control commands indicating whether or not to make a big hit and the type of the big hit game. The production control microcomputer 100 determines the display results of the decorative symbols and the production symbols in response to the reception of the commands 8C01 (H) to 8C05 (H), so that the commands 8C01 (H) to 8C05 (H) are specified as the display results. It is called a command.

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

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

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

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

  The commands A001 to A003 (H) are for displaying a fanfare screen, that is, an effect control command for designating the start of a jackpot game or the start of a jackpot game (a jackpot start designation command or a jackpot start designation command: a fanfare designation command). is there. The big hit start designation command or the small hit start designation command includes a big hit start 1 designation command, a big hit start designation 2 designation command, and a small hit / rush start designation command corresponding to the type or small hit. The command A1XX (H) is an effect control command (special command during opening of a big winning opening) indicating a display during the opening of the big winning opening for the number of times (round) indicated by XX. A2XX (H) is an effect control command (designation command after opening the big winning opening) indicating the closing of the big winning opening for the number of times (round) indicated by XX.

  Command A301 (H) displays a jackpot end screen, that is, specifies the end of the jackpot game and an effect control command (special jackpot end 1 designation command: ending) that specifies that the jackpot game is a non-probable big hit (usually a big hit) 1 designation command). Command A302 (H) is an effect control command for displaying the jackpot end screen, that is, the end of the jackpot game and specifying that it is a probable big hit (big hit end 2 designation command: ending 2 designation command). is there. Command A303 (H) is an effect control command (small hit / probability end designation command: ending 3 designation command) for designating the end of the small hit game or the sudden probability change game.

  Command B000 (H) is an effect control command (first probability variation state designation command) that designates that the gaming state has transitioned to the probability variation state after the end of the 15-round jackpot game that has shifted based on the probability variation jackpot. is there. Command B001 (H) is an effect control command (second probability variation state designation command) for designating that the gaming state has transitioned to the probability variation state after the end of the two-round jackpot game that has transitioned based on the sudden probability variation jackpot. It is. Command B100 (H) is an effect control command (probability change end designation command) for designating that the probability change state has ended.

  The command C000 (H) is an effect control command (first start winning designation command) that designates that the first start winning has been won. The command C100 (H) is an effect control command (second start winning designation command) for designating that the second starting win has been won. The first start prize designation command and the second start prize designation command may be collectively referred to as a start prize designation command.

  The command C2XX (H) is an effect control command (total pending storage number designation command) that designates the total number (total pending storage number) that is the sum of the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory number. “XX” in the command C2XX (H) indicates the total pending storage number. The command C300 (H) is an effect control command (total pending storage number subtraction designation command) that specifies that the total pending storage number is decremented by one. In this embodiment, the game control microcomputer 560 transmits a total pending storage number subtraction designation command when subtracting the total pending storage number, but does not use the total pending storage number subtraction designation command, and does not use the total pending storage number subtraction designation command. When the stored number is subtracted, the combined pending storage number after the subtraction may be designated by a combined pending storage number designation command.

  The effect control microcomputer 100 (specifically, the effect control CPU 101) mounted on the effect control board 80 receives the above-described effect control command from the game control microcomputer 560 mounted on the main board 31. Then, the display state of the image display device 9 is changed according to the contents shown in FIG. 13, the display state of the lamp is changed, and the sound number data is output to the audio output board 70.

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

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

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

  In the example shown in FIG. 13, the variable pattern command and the display result specifying command are displayed in a variable display (variation) of the decorative symbol corresponding to the variation of the first special symbol on the first special symbol indicator 8a and the second special symbol indicator. The image display device 9 that can be used in common with the variable display (variation) of the decorative symbol corresponding to the variation of the second special symbol in 8b, and that produces effects in accordance with the variable display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol. When controlling the effect parts, it is possible to prevent an increase in the types of commands transmitted from the game control microcomputer 560 to the effect control microcomputer 100.

  Note that the command 8D01 (H) (first symbol variation designation command) and the command 8D02 (H) (second symbol variation designation command) are executed by the effect control microcomputer 100 by the first special symbol display 8a. Whether the first design symbol display unit 9a that performs variable display of the first design as a design for decoration (production) during the variable display time of the design changes the design of the design, by the second special design display 8b. It is used to determine whether or not the decorative symbol is changed in the second decorative symbol display unit 9b that performs variable display of the second decorative symbol during the variable display time of the second special symbol.

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

  The processes in steps S300 to S310 are as follows.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  Small hit release processing (step S309): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 9. A control for transmitting an effect control command for a round display during the small hit gaming state to the effect control microcomputer 100, a process for confirming the completion of the closing condition of the big prize opening, and the like are performed. If the closing condition for the big prize opening is satisfied and there are still remaining rounds, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S308 (8 in this example). When all rounds are completed, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S310 (in this example, 10 (decimal number)).

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

  FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the start port switch passing process in step S312. In the start port switch passing process executed when at least one of the first start port switch 13a and the second start port switch 14a is in the on state, the CPU 56 is turned on by the first start port switch 13a. Whether or not (step S211). If the first start port switch 13a is on, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the first reserved memory number counter for counting the first reserved memory number is 4 (step S212). If the value of the first reserved memory number counter is 4, the process proceeds to step S221.

  If the value of the first reserved memory number counter is not 4, the CPU 56 increments the value of the first reserved memory number counter by 1 (step S213). Further, the CPU 56 corresponds to the value of the total reserved storage number counter in the reserved storage specific information storage area (hold specific area) for storing the winning order to the first start winning opening 13 and the second start winning opening 14. Data indicating “first” is set in the area (step S214).

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

  FIG. 16A is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of a reserved storage specifying information storage area (holding specified area). As shown in FIG. 16A, an area corresponding to the maximum value (8 in this example) of the value of the total reserved memory number counter is secured in the reserved specific area. FIG. 16A shows an example in which the value of the total pending storage number counter is 5. As shown in FIG. 16A, an area corresponding to the maximum value (8 in this example) of the total reserved memory number counter is secured in the reserved specific area, and the first start winning opening 13 or the second start Data indicating “first” or “second” is set in order of winning based on winning in the winning opening 14. Accordingly, in the reserved storage specific information storage area (hold specific area), the winning order to the first start winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14 is stored. Note that the reserved specific area is formed in the RAM 55. “Formed in RAM” means an area in the RAM.

  FIG. 16B is an explanatory diagram illustrating a configuration example of an area (hold buffer) that stores random numbers and the like corresponding to the hold memory. As shown in FIG. 16B, a storage area corresponding to the upper limit value of the first reserved storage number (4 in this example) is secured in the first reserved storage buffer. In addition, a storage area corresponding to the upper limit value of the second reserved storage number (4 in this example) is secured in the second reserved storage buffer. The first reserved storage buffer and the second reserved storage buffer are formed in the RAM 55.

  In the start port switch passing process, the CPU 56 extracts a value from the random number circuit 503 and a counter for generating a software random number, and executes a process of storing them in the storage area in the first reserved storage buffer (step S215). . In the process of step S215, random R (a big hit determination random number) and software random number 2 (see FIG. 7) are stored in the storage area.

  Next, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a first start winning designation command (step S216). Further, the CPU 56 increases the value of the total pending memory number counter indicating the total pending memory number that is the sum of the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory number by 1 (step S217). Then, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a total pending storage number designation command indicating the total pending storage number based on the value of the total pending storage number counter (step S218). Note that the total pending storage number designation command may be transmitted before the first start winning designation command.

  When transmitting an effect control command to the effect control microcomputer 100, the CPU 56 sets an address of a command transmission table (preliminarily set for each command in the ROM) corresponding to the effect control command as a pointer. . And the address of the command transmission table according to an effect control command is set to a pointer, and an effect control command is transmitted in an effect control command control process (step S29).

  Next, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the second start port switch 14a is turned on (step S221). If the second start port switch 14a is on, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the second reserved memory number counter for counting the second reserved memory number is 4 (step S222). If the value of the second reserved memory number counter is 4, the process is terminated. If the value of the second reserved memory number counter is 4, the CPU 56 may perform the process of confirming again whether the first start port switch 13a is on (see step S211).

  If the value of the second reserved memory number counter is not 4, the CPU 56 increases the value of the second reserved memory number counter by 1 (step S223). Further, the CPU 56 sets data indicating “second” in an area corresponding to the value of the total reserved storage number counter in the reserved storage specific information storage area (hold specific area) (step S224).

  Next, the CPU 56 extracts values from the random number circuit 503 and a counter for generating software random numbers, and executes a process of storing them in a storage area in the second reserved storage buffer (step S225). In the process of step S225, random R (a big hit determination random number) and random 2 (see FIG. 7) are stored in the storage area.

  Next, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a second start winning designation command (step S226). Further, the CPU 56 increases the value of the total pending storage number counter by 1 (step S227). Then, the CPU 56 transmits a total pending storage number designation command based on the value of the total pending storage number counter (step S228). Note that the total pending storage number designation command may be transmitted before the second start winning designation command.

  In addition, you may implement | achieve the process of step S213-218 and the process of step S223-228 by one common routine. In that case, the CPU 56 first sets data indicating “first” when detecting that the first start port switch 13a is turned on, and indicates that the second start port switch 14a is turned on. When data is detected, the data indicating “second” is set, and the common storage routine selects the reserved memory number buffer (first reserved memory number buffer or second reserved memory number buffer) according to the set data. Or a start prize designation command (first start prize designation command or second start prize designation command) is selected.

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

  If the total pending storage number is not 0, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the first data among the data set in the pending specific area (see FIG. 16A) is data indicating “first”. (Step S52). If it is data indicating “first”, a special symbol pointer (a flag indicating whether special symbol process processing is being performed for the first special symbol or special symbol process processing is being performed for the second special symbol) is set to “first 1 "is set (step S53). If it is not data indicating “first”, that is, if it is data indicating “second”, data indicating “second” is set in the special symbol pointer (step S54).

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

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

  That is, when the special symbol pointer indicates “first”, the CPU 56 saves the first reserved memory number = n (n = 2, 3, 4) in the first reserved memory number buffer of the RAM 55. Are stored in a storage area corresponding to the first reserved memory number = n−1. Further, when the special symbol pointer indicates “second”, it is stored in the storage area corresponding to the second reserved memory number = n (n = 2, 3, 4) in the second reserved memory number buffer of the RAM 55. Each random number value is stored in a storage area corresponding to the second reserved memory number = n−1.

  Therefore, the order in which each random value stored in each storage area corresponding to each first reserved memory number (or each second reserved memory number) is extracted is always the first reserved memory number (or (Second reserved storage number) = 1, 2, 3, 4 in order.

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

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

  Next, the CPU 56 reads a random R (a jackpot determination random number) from the random number buffer area (step S61), and executes a jackpot determination module (step S62). The jackpot determination module is a program that compares a jackpot determination value (see FIG. 8) determined in advance with a jackpot determination random number, and executes a process of determining whether to hit a jackpot or a small hit if they match. In other words, this is a program for executing the big hit determination process.

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

  Note that whether or not the current gaming state is the probability variation state is determined by whether or not the probability variation flag is set. The probability variation flag is set when the gaming state is shifted to the probability variation state, and is reset when the probability variation state is terminated. Specifically, it is determined to be a probable big hit or suddenly probable big hit, set in the process of ending the big hit game, determined to be a normal big hit, and reset in the process of ending the big hit game.

  If the random R value does not match any of the big hit determination values, it is checked whether or not the random R value matches any of the small hit determination values (step S62). If they match, a small hit flag is set (step S63). Then, the process proceeds to step S75. If it does not coincide with the small hit determination value, the process proceeds to step S75.

  In step S71, the CPU 56 sets a big hit flag. Then, the jackpot type determination table 131 shown in FIG. 8C is selected as a table used to determine the jackpot type as one of a plurality of types (step S72). The type corresponding to the value of the jackpot type determination random number (random 2) stored in the random number buffer area ("normal", "probability" or "surprise") is determined as the jackpot type (step S73). ). Further, the data indicating the determined jackpot type is set in the jackpot type buffer in the RAM 55 (step S74). For example, when the jackpot type is “normal”, “01” is set as the data indicating the jackpot type, and when the jackpot type is “probability”, “02” is set as the data indicating the jackpot type. Is “03”, “03” is set as data indicating the big hit type.

  Next, the CPU 56 determines a special symbol stop symbol (step S75). Specifically, when the big hit flag and the small hit flag are not set, “−” as a special symbol is determined as the special symbol stop symbol. When the small hit flag is set, “5” as the small hit symbol is determined as a special symbol stop symbol. When the big hit flag is set, one of “1”, “3”, and “7”, which is a big hit symbol, is determined as a special symbol stop symbol according to the determination result of the big hit type. That is, when the big hit type is determined to be “surprise”, “1”, which is the two round big hit symbol, is determined as a special symbol stop symbol. When the big hit type is determined as “normal” or “probability change”, “3” or “7” is determined as a special symbol stop symbol.

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

  FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing the variation pattern setting process (step S301) in the special symbol process. In the variation pattern setting process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the big hit flag is set (step S91). When the big hit flag is set, the CPU 56 uses the big hit variation pattern type determination tables 132A and 132B (FIG. 9 (A) as tables used for determining the variation pattern type as one of a plurality of types. ) Or (B)) is selected (step S92). Then, the process proceeds to step S102.

  When the big hit flag is not set, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the small hit flag is set (step S93). When the small hit flag is set, the CPU 56 uses the small hit variation pattern type determination table 132C (FIG. 9C) as a table used to determine the variation pattern type as one of a plurality of types. )) Is selected (step S94). Then, the process proceeds to step S102.

  When the small hit flag is not set, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the time reduction flag indicating that the time reduction state is set (step S95). The time reduction flag is set when the game state is changed to the time reduction state (in this example, when changing to the probability change state), and is reset when the time reduction state is ended (in this example, when the probability change state is ended). The Specifically, it is determined to be a probable big hit or suddenly probable big hit, set in the process of ending the big hit game, determined to be a normal big hit, and reset in the process of ending the big hit game. When the time reduction flag is set (Y in step S95), the CPU 56 proceeds to step S99.

  When the time reduction flag is not set, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the total pending storage number is 3 or more (step S96). If the total number of pending storages is less than 3, the CPU 56 uses the variation pattern type determination table 135A (see FIG. 10A) as a table used to determine the variation pattern type as one of a plurality of types. ) Is selected (step S97). Then, the process proceeds to step S102.

  When the total pending storage number is 3 or more, the CPU 56 uses the variation pattern type determination table 135B for deviation as a table to be used for determining one of a plurality of variation pattern types (FIG. 10B). )) Is selected (step S98). Then, the process proceeds to step S102.

  When the time reduction flag is set, the CPU 56 uses the deviation variation pattern type determination table 135C (see FIG. 10C) as a table used to determine one of a plurality of variation pattern types. ) Is selected (step S99). Then, the process proceeds to step S102.

  In this embodiment, when the total pending storage number is 3 or more by executing the processing of steps S95 to S99, the variation pattern type determination table 135B for loss shown in FIG. 10B is selected. The If the gaming state is the short-time state, the deviation variation pattern type determination table 135C shown in FIG. 10C is selected. In this case, non-reach CA2-3 may be determined as the variation pattern type in the process of step S102, and when the variation pattern type of non-reach CA2-3 is determined, the process is performed as a variation pattern in step S105. The non-reach PA1-2 of the shortening variation is determined (see FIG. 11). Therefore, in this embodiment, when the gaming state is a short-time state or when the total number of pending storage is 3 or more, a change display of the shortening variation may be performed. In this embodiment, the variation pattern type determination table for shortening variation used in the short time state (see FIG. 10C) and the variation pattern type determination table for shortening variation based on the number of reserved storage (FIG. 10B). ))) Is a different table, but a common table may be used as a variation pattern type determination table for shortening variation.

  In this embodiment, even if the gaming state is a short-time state, if the total number of pending storage is almost 0 (for example, 0, 0, or 1), the shortened The fluctuation display of fluctuation may not be performed. In this case, for example, when the CPU 56 determines in step S95 that the time reduction flag is set, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the total pending storage number is almost zero. The deviation variation pattern type determination table 135A (see FIG. 10A) may be selected.

  Next, the CPU 56 reads random 3 (random number for variation pattern type determination) from the random number buffer area (the first reserved storage buffer or the second reserved storage buffer), and selects it in the process of steps S92, S94, S97, S98 or S99. By referring to the table, the variation pattern type is determined as one of a plurality of types (step S102).

  Next, the CPU 56 uses the hit variation pattern determination tables 137A and 137B (see FIG. 11) as tables used to determine the variation pattern as one of a plurality of types based on the determination result of the variation pattern type in step S102. ), One of the deviation variation pattern determination table 138A (see FIG. 12) is selected (step S103). Further, the random pattern 4 (random number for variation pattern determination) is read from the random number buffer area (first reserved storage buffer or second reserved storage buffer), and the variation pattern is determined by referring to the variation pattern determination table selected in step S103. Is determined as one of a plurality of types (step S105). In the case where the random number 4 (variation pattern determination random number) is not extracted at the timing of the start winning prize, the CPU 56 uses the variation pattern determination random number counter for generating the variation pattern determination random number (random 4). It is also possible to extract the value directly from and to determine the variation pattern based on the extracted random number value.

  Next, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit an effect control command (variation pattern command) corresponding to the determined variation pattern to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S107).

  Next, the CPU 56 sets a value corresponding to the variation time corresponding to the selected variation pattern in the variation time timer formed in the RAM 55 (step S108). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the display result designation command transmission process (step S302) (step S109).

  In the case where it is determined to be out of place, instead of determining the variation pattern type regardless of the reach, it is first determined whether or not to reach by the lottery process using the random number for reach determination. Good. Then, based on the determination result as to whether or not to reach, the processing of steps S95 to S99 and S102 may be executed to determine the variation pattern type. In this case, the variation pattern type determination table for non-reach (including the variation pattern types of non-reach CA2-1 to non-reach CA2-3 shown in FIG. 10) and the variation pattern type determination table for reach (FIG. 10). Normal CA2-4 to normal CA2-6, including a variation pattern type of super CA2-7) are prepared, and one of the variation pattern type determination tables is selected based on the reach determination result. The variation pattern type may be determined.

  In addition, when determining whether or not to reach by a lottery process using a reach determination random number, depending on the total reserved memory number (which may be the first reserved memory number or the second reserved memory number), Reach determination tables having different selection ratios may be selected, and it may be determined whether or not to reach so that the reach probability decreases as the number of reserved memories increases. In this case, for example, in determining whether or not “super reach out” or “non-reach out” in the winning determination process, the CPU 56 matches the determination value assigned to the common range in the reach determination table. It may be determined in advance whether or not to reach by determining whether or not.

  FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing the display result specifying command transmission process (step S302). In the display result specifying command transmission process, the CPU 56 transmits an effect control command (see FIG. 13) of any one of the display result 1 designation to the display result 5 designation according to the determined type of big hit, small hit, and loss. Control. Specifically, the CPU 56 first checks whether or not the big hit flag is set (step S110). If not set, the process proceeds to step S116. When the big hit flag is set, when the big hit type is a probable big hit, control is performed to transmit a display result 3 designation command (steps S111 and S112). When the type of jackpot is a sudden probability change jackpot, control is performed to transmit a display result 4 designation command (steps S113 and S114). If neither the probability variation big hit nor sudden probability variation big hit is found, control is performed to transmit a display result 2 designation command (step S115).

  When the CPU 56 confirms that the small hit flag is set in the process of step S116, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a display result 5 designation command (step S117). When the small hit flag is not set, control for transmitting a display result 1 designation command is performed (step S118).

  Then, a total pending storage number subtraction designation command designating that 1 is subtracted from the total pending storage number is transmitted (step S119). Instead of transmitting the total pending storage number subtraction designation command, a total pending storage number designation command for designating the total pending storage number after subtraction may be transmitted. Further, the CPU 56 stores the transmitted display result specifying command in the effect symbol type storage area in the RAM 55.

  Thereafter, the CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the special symbol changing process (step S303) (step S120).

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

  FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing the special symbol stop process (step S304) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol stop process, the CPU 56 sets the end flag referred to in the special symbol display control process in step S32 to end the variation of the special symbol, and the first special symbol display unit 8a or the second special symbol display unit 8b. Then, a control for deriving and displaying the stop symbol is performed (step S131). If data indicating “first” is set in the special symbol pointer, the variation of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display 8a is terminated, and “second” is indicated in the special symbol pointer. When data is set, the variation of the second special symbol on the second special symbol display 8b is terminated. Moreover, control which transmits the symbol determination designation | designated command to the microcomputer 100 for production control is performed (step S132). If the big hit flag is not set, the process proceeds to step S143 (step S133).

  When the big hit flag is set, the CPU 56 resets the probability variation flag and the time reduction flag (step S134), and performs control to send a big hit start designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S135). Specifically, when the type of jackpot is a probabilistic jackpot, a jackpot start 2 designation command is transmitted. When the big hit type is suddenly a probable big hit, a small hit / surprise start designation command is transmitted. Otherwise, a jackpot start 1 designation command is transmitted. Whether or not the big hit type is a probable big hit or a sudden probable big hit is determined based on data indicating the big hit type stored in the RAM 55 (data stored in the big hit type buffer). In this embodiment, the case where the common small hit / rush start command is used for the small hit and sudden sudden change big hit is shown. However, the small hit and sudden sudden change big hit are separately used. The start designation command may be used. In this case, in step S135, it may be controlled to transmit a small hit start designation command if it is a small hit, and may be controlled to transmit a sudden start designation command if it is suddenly probable big hit.

  Further, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a probability variation end designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 based on resetting the probability variation flag and ending the probability variation state (step S135A).

  Also, a value corresponding to the big hit display time (for example, the time for notifying that the big hit has occurred in the effect display device 9) is set in the big hit display time timer (step S136). In addition, the number of times of opening (for example, 15 times in the case of a normal big hit and a probable big hit (15 round big hit) and 2 times in the case of a sudden hit (2 round big hit)) is set in the big prize opening number counter (step). S137). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the pre-winner opening pre-processing (step S305) (step S138).

  In step S143, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the small hit flag is set. When the small hit flag is set, control is performed to transmit a small hit / probability start designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S144). In addition, a value corresponding to the small hit display time (for example, the time when the effect display device 9 notifies that the small hit has occurred) is set in the small hit display time timer (step S145). Further, the number of times of opening (2 times) is set in the special winning opening opening number counter (step S146). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the small hit release pre-processing (step S308) (step S147). If the small hit flag is not set, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special symbol normal process (step S300) (step S148).

  FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing the jackpot end process (step S307) in the special symbol process. In the jackpot end process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the jackpot end display timer is set (step S150). If the jackpot end display timer is set, the process proceeds to step S154. If the jackpot end display timer is not set, the jackpot flag is reset (step S151), and control for transmitting a jackpot end designation command is performed (step S152). Here, if it is a probable big hit, a big hit end 2 designation command is sent, if it is suddenly a probable big hit, a small hit / collision end designation command is sent. Send a command. Then, a value corresponding to the display time corresponding to the time during which the big hit end display is being performed in the image display device 9 (the big hit end display time) is set in the big hit end display timer (step S153), and the processing is ended.

  In step S154, 1 is subtracted from the value of the big hit end display timer. Then, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the jackpot end display timer is 0, that is, whether or not the jackpot end display time has elapsed (step S155). If not, the process ends. If it has elapsed, it is confirmed whether or not the type of jackpot is a probable jackpot (step S158A). Specifically, whether or not the type of jackpot is a probable variation jackpot, specifically, whether or not the data set in the jackpot type buffer in step S74 of the special symbol normal process is data “02” indicating “probability variation”. It can be determined by checking. If the big hit type is a probable big hit (Y in step S158A), the game state is shifted to the probable state after the end of 15 rounds of the big hit game. Control to transmit the designated command is performed (step S158B). Then, the probability variation flag and the time reduction flag are set to shift the gaming state to the probability variation state (step S161), and the processing proceeds to step S164.

  If the big hit type is not a probable variation big hit (N in Step S158A), the CPU 56 checks whether or not the big hit type is a sudden probable big hit (Step S158C). Whether or not the type of jackpot is a sudden probability change jackpot, specifically, whether or not the data set in the jackpot type buffer in step S74 of the special symbol normal processing is data “03” indicating “surprise”. It can be determined by confirming. If the type of jackpot is a sudden probability change jackpot (Y in step S158C), since the game state is shifted to the probability change state after the end of the two rounds of jackpot game, the CPU 56 changes the second probability change to the effect control microcomputer 100. Control to transmit the state designation command is performed (step S158D). Then, the probability variation flag and the time reduction flag are set to shift the gaming state to the probability variation state (step S161), and the processing proceeds to step S164.

  If the type of jackpot is not suddenly probable big hit (N in Step S158C), that is, if it is a normal big hit, the CPU 56 does not set the probability change flag and the time-short flag (that is, changes the gaming state to the probability change state). Without shifting, the process proceeds to step S164 as it is.

  In step S164, the CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the special symbol normal process (step S300) (step S164).

  As shown in FIGS. 22 and 23, in this embodiment, since the probability variation flag and the time reduction flag are set and reset at the same time, the probability variation state and the time reduction state are controlled simultaneously. Continue until a big hit occurs.

  Next, the operation of the effect control means will be described. First, simultaneous production will be described. In this embodiment, a simultaneous effect is executed over a predetermined period based on the predetermined condition being satisfied. The simultaneous performance is simultaneously executed in a plurality of gaming machines installed in the game store at a timing when a predetermined condition is established. Specifically, based on the fact that it is 00 minutes per hour, a predetermined condition is established, and an effect in such a manner that predetermined video playback is started all at once for a predetermined period (for example, 5 minutes) is executed as a simultaneous effect. . Although it is expressed that the production is executed at the same time by a plurality of gaming machines, specifically, each gaming machine executes the same production at the same timing, and a plurality of gaming machines are arranged side by side. It is that the production seems to be performed all at once as a phenomenon. For example, each gaming machine acquires time information from the real-time clock 108 and measures time, and when the time measurement result satisfies a predetermined condition (in this example, when every hour is 00 minutes), the countdown effect is started. The production can be started at the same timing with a plurality of gaming machines.

  FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing main processing executed by the effect control microcomputer 100 (specifically, the effect control CPU 101) as effect control means mounted on the effect control board 80. The effect control CPU 101 starts executing the main process when the power is turned on. In the main processing, first, initialization processing is performed for clearing the RAM area, setting various initial values, and initializing a timer for determining the activation control activation interval (for example, 2 ms) (step S701). .

  Next, the production control CPU 101 reads time information from the real-time clock 108 (step S701a). Next, the production control CPU 101 identifies the current time based on the read time information, and sets a time measurement timer according to the identified time (step S701b). In this embodiment, a value is set in the time measurement timer so that the time measurement timer times out at 00 minutes every hour. In general, since game stores are opened around 10:00, in step S703, a time measurement timer is set so as to time out at 11:00. For example, if the current time specified based on the time information is 9:50, in step S703, a value corresponding to 70 minutes until 11:00 is set in the time measurement timer. In step S703, the time measurement timer may not be set so as to time out at 11:00, but may be set to the nearest 00 minutes (for example, when power is turned on at 8 o'clock, 9: Set to 00).

  Thereafter, the effect control CPU 101 proceeds to a loop process for monitoring a timer interrupt flag (step S702). When a timer interrupt occurs, the effect control CPU 101 sets a timer interrupt flag in the timer interrupt process. If the timer interrupt flag is set in the main process, the effect control CPU 101 clears the flag (step S703) and executes the effect control process of steps S704 to S710.

  In the effect control process, the effect control CPU 101 first analyzes the received effect control command and performs a process of setting a flag according to the received effect control command (command analysis process: step S704).

  Next, the production control CPU 101 performs time measurement processing (step S704a). In the time measurement process, a time measurement process is performed using a time measurement timer.

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 performs effect control process processing (step S705). In the effect control process, the process corresponding to the current control state (effect control process flag) is selected from the processes corresponding to the control state, and display control of the effect display device 9 is executed.

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 performs a first decorative symbol display control process (step S706). In the first decorative symbol display control process, display control of the first decorative symbol display 9a is executed. Further, a second decorative symbol display control process is performed (step S707). In the second decorative symbol display control process, display control of the second decorative symbol display 9b is executed. Further, a hold storage display control process for controlling the display state of the combined hold storage display unit 18c is executed (step S708). Next, a random number update process for updating a count value of a counter for generating a random number used for determining a production mode or the like is executed (step S709). Further, the production control CPU 101 detects an operation detection process (step S710) for detecting that the player has performed an operation for changing the volume (such as a dial rotation operation) using the operation button 120, and the detection result. Then, a volume change process (step S711) for changing the set value of the volume set in the volume 706 is executed. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S702. Note that the operation for changing the volume using the operation button 120 may be effective only during display of the demo screen (in a state where the variable display is not performed), or may be effective even in a state where the variable display is performed. Good. Further, as the volume setting value set in the volume 706, for example, five levels of setting values of levels 1 to 5 may be provided. For example, when the dial control operation is performed clockwise during the effective period, the production control CPU 101 changes the level so that the volume is increased by raising the level from the current volume setting value according to the operation amount. When the dial is rotated counterclockwise, the level is set lower than the current set value in accordance with the operation amount so that the volume is reduced.

  As in the special symbol process executed by the game control microcomputer 560, the first ornament symbol display control process and the second ornament symbol display control process are made common, that is, realized by one program module. Thus, the capacity of the program executed by the production control microcomputer 100 may be reduced.

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

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

  As the command reception buffer, for example, a command reception buffer in a ring buffer format capable of storing six 2-byte configuration effect control commands is used. Therefore, the command reception buffer is configured by a 12-byte area of reception command buffers 1 to 12. A command reception number counter indicating in which area the received command is stored is used. The command reception number counter takes a value from 0 to 11. The ring buffer format is not necessarily required.

  The effect control command transmitted from the game control microcomputer 560 is received by an interrupt process based on the effect control INT signal and stored in the command reception buffer. In the command analysis process, it is analyzed which command (see FIG. 13) is the effect control command stored in the buffer area.

  If the received effect control command is a variation pattern command (step S614), the effect control CPU 101 stores the variation pattern command in a variation pattern command storage area formed in the RAM (step S615). Then, a variation pattern command reception flag is set (step S616).

  If the received effect control command is a display result specifying command (step S617), the effect control CPU 101 forms the display result specifying command (one of display result 1 specifying command to display result 5 specifying command) in the RAM. The displayed display result specifying command storage area is stored (step S618).

  If the received effect control command is a symbol confirmation designation command (step S621), the effect control CPU 101 sets a confirmed command reception flag (step S622).

  If the received effect control command is a jackpot start 1 designation command or a jackpot start 2 designation command (step S623), the effect control CPU 101 sets a jackpot start 1 designation command reception flag or a jackpot start 2 designation command reception flag ( Step S624). If the received effect control command is a small hit / surprise start designation command (step S625), the effect control CPU 101 sets a small hit / surprise start designation command reception flag (step S626).

  If the received effect control command is the first symbol variation designation command (step S627), the first symbol variation designation command reception flag is set (step S628). If the received effect control command is the second symbol variation designation command (step S629), the second symbol variation designation command reception flag is set (step S630).

  If the received effect control command is a power-on specification command (initialization specification command) (step S631), the effect control CPU 101 displays an initial screen on the effect display device 9 indicating that the initialization process has been executed. Control is performed (step S632). The initial screen includes an initial display of predetermined production symbols.

  If the received effect control command is a power failure recovery designation command (step S633), a predetermined power failure recovery screen (screen for displaying information notifying the player that the gaming state is continuing) is displayed. Display control is performed (step S634).

  If the received effect control command is a jackpot end 1 designation command or a jackpot end 2 designation command (step S641), the effect control CPU 101 sets a jackpot end 1 designation command reception flag or a jackpot end 2 designation command reception flag ( Step S642). If the received effect control command is a small hit / abrupt end specification command (step S643), the effect control CPU 101 sets a small hit / abrupt end specification command reception flag (step S644).

  If the received effect control command is a special winning opening open designation command (step S645), the production control CPU 101 sets a special winning opening open flag (step S646). Further, if the received effect control command is a designation command after opening the big prize opening (step S647), the production control CPU 101 sets a flag after opening the big prize opening (step S648).

  If the received effect control command is the first probability change state designation command (step S649), the effect control CPU 101 indicates that the transition to the probability change state has been made after the 15th round big hit based on the probability change big hit. A one-probability change state flag is set (step S650).

  If the received effect control command is the second probability variation state designation command (step S651), the effect control CPU 101 indicates that the transition to the probability variation state has been made after the end of two rounds of jackpot based on the sudden probability variation jackpot. A second certain change state flag is set (step S652).

  If the received effect control command is a probability change end designation command (step S653), the effect control CPU 101 determines that the probability change game state has ended, and resets the first probability change state flag or the second probability change state flag (step S653). S654).

  If the received effect control command is another command, CPU 101 for effect control sets a flag corresponding to the received effect control command (step S655). Then, control goes to a step S611.

  FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing the time measurement process (step S704a) in the main process shown in FIG. In the time measurement process, the effect control CPU 101 first subtracts 1 from the value of the time measurement timer (step S751), and checks whether the time measurement timer after the subtraction has timed out (step S752). If it has not timed out, the process is terminated as it is. If the time measurement timer has timed out, the production control CPU 101 sets a simultaneous production start condition establishment flag indicating that the simultaneous production start condition has been established (step S753).

  In this embodiment, the time measurement timer times out at 00 minutes every hour, the simultaneous production start condition establishment flag is set (see steps S752 and S753), and the simultaneous production start condition establishment flag is set. A simultaneous effect is executed in a simultaneous effect process (see step S811) described later.

  Next, the production control CPU 101 reads time information from the real-time clock 108 (step S754). Then, the production control CPU 101 identifies the current time based on the read time information, and sets a time measurement timer according to the identified time (step S755). In this embodiment, a value is set in the time measurement timer so that the time measurement timer times out at 00 minutes every hour. For example, if the current time specified based on the time information is 11:00, in step S703, a value corresponding to 60 minutes until the next 12:00 is set in the time measurement timer.

  In this embodiment, the time information is read from the real time clock 108 every time the time measurement timer is set. However, the time information is read from the real time clock 108 only when the gaming machine is turned on. When the timer is set (see steps S701a and S701b) and the time measurement timer is set for the second and subsequent times after the power is turned on, a value corresponding to 60 minutes is uniformly read without reading the time information from the real-time clock 108. May be set in the time measurement timer. In such a case, the process of step S754 becomes unnecessary. However, in this embodiment, by reading the time information from the real-time clock 108 every time the time measurement timer is set, the time measurement timer can be timed out more accurately at 00 hours and start a specific effect. I have to.

  FIG. 29 is a flowchart showing the effect control process (step S705) in the main process shown in FIG. In the effect control process, the effect control CPU 101 first executes a simultaneous effect process (step S811) for performing a simultaneous effect. In this embodiment, when a predetermined condition (that is, the simultaneous effect start condition establishment flag is set) is satisfied, whether or not the variable display is executed by executing the process of step S811. Regardless, simultaneous production begins. Thereafter, the effect control CPU 101 performs any one of steps S800 to S807 according to the value of the effect control process flag. In each process, the following process is executed.

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

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

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

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

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

  In-round processing (step S805): Display control during round is performed. If the round end condition is satisfied, if the final round has not ended, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the post-round processing (step S806). If the final round has ended, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the jackpot end process (step S807).

  Post-round processing (step S806): Display control between rounds is performed. When the round start condition is satisfied, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the in-round process (step S805).

  Big hit end process (step S807): In the effect display device 9, display control is performed to notify the player that the big hit gaming state has ended. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800).

  FIG. 30 is a flowchart showing the simultaneous effect process (step S811) in the effect control process shown in FIG. In the simultaneous effect process, the effect control CPU 101 first checks whether or not the simultaneous effect end condition establishment flag indicating that the end condition of the simultaneous effect has been established is set (step S5101). If the simultaneous effect end condition establishment flag is not set, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the simultaneous effect execution flag indicating that the simultaneous effect is being executed is set (step S5102). If the simultaneous effect execution flag is not set (that is, if the simultaneous effect is not being executed), the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the simultaneous effect start condition establishment flag is set (step S5103). . If the simultaneous production start condition establishment flag is not set, the processing is ended as it is.

  If the simultaneous production start condition establishment flag is set (that is, if the simultaneous production start condition is established), the production control CPU 101 resets the simultaneous production start condition establishment flag (step S5104), The volume is changed to a predetermined value (for example, level 4 of levels 1 to 5) (step S5104a). In step S5104a, for example, the volume setting value (user setting value) set in the volume 706 according to the player's operation is temporarily stored and changed to a predetermined volume setting value for simultaneous production. .

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 performs control to start the simultaneous effect moving image reproduction on the display screen of the effect display device 9 (step S5105). Then, the effect control CPU 101 sets a simultaneous effect execution flag (step S5106), and the simultaneous effect period measurement timer for measuring the execution time of the simultaneous effect corresponds to a predetermined period (in this example, 5 minutes). A value is set (step S5107).

  When the simultaneous effect execution flag is set (Y in step S5102), that is, when the simultaneous effect is being executed, the effect control CPU 101 subtracts 1 from the value of the simultaneous effect period measurement timer. (Step S5108). Next, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the simultaneous effect period measurement timer after subtraction has timed out (step S5109). If it has not timed out, the process is terminated as it is. If the simultaneous production period measurement timer has timed out (that is, if a predetermined period (5 minutes in this example) has passed and the simultaneous production end condition is satisfied), the production control CPU 101 performs the production control process. It is confirmed whether or not the value of the flag is a value indicating the effect symbol changing process (step S5110). If the value of the process flag for the effect control is a value indicating the process during the effect symbol variation (that is, if the effect symbol variation is being displayed), the effect control CPU 101 does not end the simultaneous effect immediately, Only the simultaneous production end condition establishment flag is set (step S5111), and the process ends. If the value of the effect control process flag is not a value indicating the effect symbol changing process, the process proceeds to step S5114.

  When the simultaneous effect end condition establishment flag is set (Y in step S5101), the effect control CPU 101 determines whether or not the value of the effect control process flag is a value indicating the effect symbol variation stop process. Confirmation is made (step S5112). If the value of the effect control process flag is not a value indicating the effect symbol variation stop process, the process ends. If the value of the effect control process flag is a value indicating the effect symbol variation stop processing (that is, if the effect symbol variation display stop timing is reached), the effect control CPU 101 establishes the simultaneous effect end condition. The flag is reset (step S5113). Next, the effect control CPU 101 performs control to end the reproduction of the simultaneous effect moving image on the display screen of the effect display device 9 (step S5114).

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 changes the sound volume to the user set value (step S5114a) and resets the simultaneous effect execution flag (step S5115). In step S5114a, for example, the volume setting value set by the player is temporarily stored in step S5104a from the volume setting value set in the volume 706 from the predetermined volume setting value in simultaneous production. Change to a value (user set value).

  By executing the processing of steps S5104a and S5114a, in this embodiment, the volume can be changed from the set value by the player during the simultaneous production and output. For this reason, even if the player sets the volume to a low level, it is possible to output the sound at a relatively large volume during the simultaneous performance, and to enhance the interest of the simultaneous performance. In this embodiment, the volume setting value is always changed to a predetermined value (for example, level 4 of levels 1 to 5) at the start of simultaneous production (step S5104a). For example, the sound volume setting value is changed to a predetermined value only when the sound volume setting value (user setting value) set by the player is smaller than a predetermined threshold (for example, level 3 of levels 1 to 5). You may do it. Further, the level of the set value may be increased by one step from the set value (user set value) of the volume set by the player.

  Also, by executing the processing of steps S5101, S5109 to S5115, in this embodiment, a predetermined period (5 minutes in this example) has elapsed at a timing other than during the change display of the effect symbols. If the end condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to step S5114, and the execution of the simultaneous performance is immediately ended. On the other hand, if a predetermined period (5 minutes in this example) elapses while the variation of the effect symbol is displayed and the end condition of the simultaneous effect is satisfied, the execution of the simultaneous effect is not immediately terminated, After waiting for the timing to end the variable display (see step S5112), the execution of the simultaneous effect is ended.

  In this embodiment, since the simultaneous effect process in step S811 is executed before the processes in steps S800 to S807 in the effect control process shown in FIG. 29, the start condition for the simultaneous effect is satisfied. Even if it is a big hit game, simultaneous production is executed. In this case, since the effect during the big hit game is executed in the effect display device 9, the execution of the simultaneous effect is continued by, for example, reducing the video playback of the simultaneous effect on a part of the display screen of the effect display device 9. You just have to do it. Then, for example, when a predetermined period (5 minutes in this example) has elapsed during the big hit game and the end condition of the simultaneous performance is satisfied, the video playback that has been displayed in a reduced size is terminated and the simultaneous performance is executed. Should be terminated.

  Further, the processing mode of the simultaneous effect processing is not limited to that shown in this embodiment. For example, in the simultaneous effect process shown in FIG. 30, it is determined whether or not the value of the effect control process flag is a value indicating the effect symbol variation stop process before and after step S5110, and the value of the effect control process flag is the effect symbol variation. If the value indicates a stop process, the process may directly move to step S5114 to end the simultaneous effect moving image reproduction.

  Also, in this embodiment, when a predetermined period of time has elapsed during the fluctuation display, the video playback of the simultaneous effect is ended after waiting for the change to stop, but the simultaneous effect is also waited until the next change starts. The video playback may be terminated. In this case, for example, it is determined before and after step S5110 whether or not the value of the effect control process flag is a value indicating the effect symbol variation stop process, and the value of the effect control process flag is a value indicating the effect symbol variation stop process. If there is, it may be determined whether or not the value of the effect control process flag is a value indicating the effect symbol variation start process. Then, if the value of the effect control process flag is a value indicating the effect symbol variation start processing, the simultaneous effect moving image reproduction is ended, so that the simultaneous effect moving image reproduction is ended after waiting for the next variation start. What should I do? Alternatively, for example, before and after step S5110, it is determined whether or not the value of the effect control process flag is a value indicating the effect symbol variation start process, and the value of the effect control process flag is a value indicating the effect symbol variation start process. For example, the process may directly proceed to step S5114 to end the simultaneous effect moving image reproduction, and the simultaneous effect moving image reproduction may be ended after waiting for the next change to start.

  FIG. 31 is a flowchart showing a variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800) in the effect control process shown in FIG. In the variation pattern command reception waiting process, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the variation pattern command reception flag is set (step S811). If the variation pattern command reception flag is set, the variation pattern command reception flag is reset (step S812). Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the effect symbol variation start process (step S801) (step S813).

  FIG. 32 is a flowchart showing the effect symbol variation start process (step S801) in the effect control process shown in FIG. In the effect symbol variation start process, the effect control CPU 101 first reads a variation pattern command from the variation pattern command storage area (step S501). Next, the CPU 101 for effect control displays the display result (stop) of the effect symbol in accordance with the variation pattern command read in step S501 and the data stored in the display result specifying command storage area (that is, the received display result specifying command). (Design) is determined (step S502). That is, the display control result of the variable display of the identification information (stop of the design symbol) according to the variable display pattern (variation pattern) determined by the variable display pattern determination means by the processing of step S502 being performed by the CPU 101 for effect control. A display result determining means for determining (design) is realized. When the pseudo-ream is specified by the variation pattern command, the effect control CPU 101 does not reach the chance symbol symbol (for example, “223” or “445”) as the temporary stop symbol in the pseudo-ream. A combination of symbols in which the big hit symbol of the object is deviated from one symbol, or a combination of symbols including a special symbol (for example, the star symbol shown in FIG. 45 (8-4)) is also determined. The effect control CPU 101 stores data indicating the determined effect stop symbols in the effect symbol display result storage area.

  In step S502, for example, when the received display result designation command indicates a big hit (when the received display result designation command is a display result 2 designation command), the presentation control CPU 101 performs the production control CPU 101. Determines the combination of performance symbols (big hit symbol of non-probability variable symbol) in which three symbols are arranged in the same even number as the stop symbol. For example, when the received display result designation command indicates a probable big hit (when the received display result designation command is a display result 3 designation command), the presentation control CPU 101 As a stop symbol, a combination of effect symbols (probability symbol jackpot symbol) in which three symbols are arranged in the same odd number symbol is determined.

  In addition, for example, in the case of deviation (when the received display result designation command is a display result 1 designation command), the production control CPU 101 determines a combination of production symbols other than the above. However, when a reach effect is involved, a combination of effect symbols (reach symbols) in which two left and right symbols are aligned is determined. If the received display result designation command suddenly shows a probable big hit or small hit (when the received display result designation command is a display result 4 designation command or a display result 5 designation command), it is for effect control. The CPU 101 determines a combination of effects such as “135” as the stop symbol. The combination of the three symbols derived and displayed on the effect display device 9 is the “stop symbol” of the effect symbol.

  The effect control CPU 101 determines that the winning symbol is a stop symbol by specifying that it is a big hit, disappointment, suddenly probable big hit or small hit based on the variation pattern command, not the display result designation command. It may be. For example, when the variation control command for big hit is received, the effect control CPU 101 determines a big hit symbol with the same symbols on the left and right sides, and suddenly receives a variation pattern command for a probable big hit / small hit. Determines a stop symbol such as “135”, and when a variation pattern command for deviation is received, a symbol other than these may be determined.

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

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 executes a notice effect setting process for determining whether or not the notice effect is to be executed in the effect display device 9 during the change display of the effect symbol, and for determining the effect aspect of the notice effect. (Step S503). In this embodiment, in step S503, the first notice effect (mini-character notice effect), the second notice effect (step-up notice effect), the third notice effect (button notice effect), and the fourth notice effect (in step S503). The case of setting the pseudo-annual announcement effect) will be described.

  It should be noted that the notice effect that is executed during the change display of the effect symbol is not limited to the one shown in this embodiment, and various notice effects can be executed. For example, in step S503, the effect control CPU 101 sets a group notice effect or a message notice effect, or sets an accessory notice effect using the movable member 78 and the effect blade accessories 79a and 79b. May be. The group notice effect is, for example, a super-reach by displaying a predetermined group of animals on the effect display device 9 at a predetermined timing (for example, after reach is established) during the variation display of the effect symbol, It is an effect that suggests that it will be a big hit, and is executed so that the degree of expectation varies depending on the type of animals displayed and the manner of herd. In addition, the message notice effect is, for example, that the message is displayed on the effect display device 9 at a predetermined timing (for example, after reach is established) during the change display of the effect symbol. This is an effect that suggests that the expectation is different depending on the content of the displayed message. In addition, the accessory announcement effect is controlled so that the movable member 78 and the effect blade actors 79a and 79b perform a specific operation, for example, at a predetermined timing (for example, after the reach is established) during the variation display of the effect symbol. Thus, it is an effect suggesting that it will be a super reach or a big hit, and is executed with different expectations depending on the mode of operation.

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 selects a process table according to whether or not the notice effect and the simultaneous effect are being executed when the change pattern and the notice effect are executed (step S504). Then, the process timer in the process data 1 of the selected process table is started (step S505).

  FIG. 33 is an explanatory diagram of a configuration example of the process table. The process table is a table in which process data referred to when the effect control CPU 101 executes control of the effect device is set. That is, the effect control CPU 101 controls effect devices (effect components) such as the effect display device 9 according to the process data set in the process table. The process table includes data in which a plurality of combinations of process timer set values, display control execution data, lamp control execution data, sound number data, and movable member control data are collected. The display control execution data includes, for example, data indicating each variation mode constituting the variation mode during the variable display time (variation time) of the variable display of the effect symbol (display of the effect display device 9 in addition to the display mode of the effect symbol) (Including other aspects of the screen) Specifically, data relating to the change of the display screen of the effect display device 9 is described. Further, the production time in the production mode is set in the process timer set value. The effect control CPU 101 refers to the process table, displays the effect design in the form set in the display control execution data for the time set in the process timer set value, and displays the character image or background displayed on the display screen. Control to display. In addition, the flashing of the light emitter is controlled in a manner set in the lamp control execution data and the sound number data, and the sound output from the speaker 27 is controlled. Further, the movable member 78 and the effect blades 79a and 79b are controlled in a manner set in the movable member control data.

  The process table shown in FIG. 33 is stored in the ROM of the effect control board 80. The process table is prepared according to the contents of each variation pattern and notice effect. If it is determined to execute the notice effect in the process of step S503, data corresponding to the notice effect is set, the process table is selected, and it is not decided to execute the notice effect. The process table for which data corresponding to the notice effect is not set is selected. In addition, when a simultaneous effect is being executed, data corresponding to the simultaneous effect is set and a process table is selected (for example, when the simultaneous effect is not being executed in order to focus attention on the video playback by the simultaneous effect). Compared to the above, the change display of the effect design is set to be displayed smaller.) When the simultaneous effect is not being executed, a process table in which data corresponding to the simultaneous effect is not set is selected.

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

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 sets a value corresponding to the variation time specified by the variation pattern command in the variation time timer (step S507).

  Then, the effect control CPU 101 sets the value of the effect control process flag to a value corresponding to the effect symbol changing process (step S802) (step S508).

  FIG. 34 is a flowchart showing the notice effect setting process in step S503. In this embodiment, the first notice effect (mini-character notice effect), the second notice effect (step-up notice effect), the third notice effect (button notice effect), and the fourth are given as the notice effects during the variation display of the effect symbols. A notice effect (pseudo-continuous notice effect) may be executed. In the notice effect setting process, which notice effect is to be executed and the effect form of the notice effect to be executed are determined.

  In the notice effect setting process shown in FIG. 34, the effect control CPU 101 uses the first notice effect (mini-character notice effect) execution determination table shown in FIG. 35A based on the random number for the notice effect execution determination. It is determined whether or not to execute the first notice effect (mini character notice effect) (step S5001).

  The first notice effect (mini-character notice effect) is an effect in which a specific mini-character is displayed on the effect display device 9 and is executed to suggest that it becomes a super reach or a big hit. In this embodiment, the first notice effect (mini-character notice effect) has a plurality of kinds of effect patterns. Depending on which effect pattern is used, the first notice effect may be a super reach or a big hit expectation degree. Are executed differently.

  FIG. 35A is an explanatory diagram showing a first notice effect (mini character notice effect) execution determination table. In the first notice effect (mini-character notice effect) execution determination table, a determination item (execution mode of the first notice effect: “none”, “first pattern”, “second pattern” or “third pattern” is set for each variation pattern. )) Is assigned, but in the example shown in FIG. 35A, the ratio of assigned decision values is shown for the sake of simplicity. The effect control CPU 101 extracts, for example, a random number for determining the notice effect execution, and determines the determination item to which a determination value matching the extracted random number is assigned. Therefore, in the example shown in FIG. 35A, the determination items in each variation pattern (execution mode of the first notice effect: “none”, “first pattern”, “second pattern”, or “third pattern”) The corresponding numerical value indicates the percentage (%) at which “none”, “first pattern”, “second pattern”, or “third pattern” is selected as a decision item.

  In this embodiment, in addition to the first notice effect (mini-character notice effect) execution determination table shown in FIG. 35 (A), each notice effect execution determination table shown in FIGS. 35 (B) to (D), FIG. The judgment value upper limit number determination table shown in FIG. 36 (A), the priority rule determination table shown in FIG. 36 (B), and the effect mode determination table in FIG. 36 (D) are actually assigned judgment values. The ratio of determination values assigned to simplify the above is shown. Also, in steps S5002 to 5004, S5005, S5005, and S5008, which will be described later, in which those tables are used, the effect control CPU 101 determines, for example, the maximum number of notice effects, priority rules, or effects, as in step S5001. A random number is extracted to determine the item to which a determination value that matches the extracted random number is assigned.

  In the first notice effect (mini character notice effect) execution determination table shown in FIG. 35 (A), the characteristic is that the display result is a big hit rather than an outage, and even if the display result is the same, the variation pattern is changed. The higher the degree of expectation, the higher the proportion of the execution mode determined as “third pattern”, and the more distant the display result is than the big hit, and the lower the expectation of the variation pattern, even if the display result is the same. In other words, the determination value is set so that the rate at which the execution mode “first pattern” or “none” is determined is high. By providing such a feature, when the first notice effect is executed rather than when the first notice effect is not executed, the execution mode is more than the second pattern and the second pattern than the first pattern. In the case of the third pattern, it is possible to increase the rate of occurrence of big hits in the variable display of the notification target, and to increase the rate of super reach with a high expectation level for big hits. Accordingly, it is possible to give the player a sense of expectation for the execution of the first notice effect. In addition, when the execution mode is the second pattern than the first pattern and the third pattern is higher than the second pattern, the degree of expectation can be increased, and the player has a sense of expectation with respect to the execution mode of the first notice effect. Can be given.

  In the example shown in FIG. 35 (A), the ratio of the execution mode having a higher expectation is higher when the normal reach is a big hit than when the super reach is off, but conversely The determination value may be set so that In other words, regardless of the display result (outgoing or big hit), when the super reach is executed, the ratio that is determined as the execution mode having a higher expectation is higher than when the normal reach is executed. Good. By doing so, it is possible to enhance the gaming interest when super reach is executed. In addition to the first notice effect (mini-character notice effect) shown in FIG. 35 (A), execution determination of other notice effects, the notice effect upper limit determination table shown in FIG. 36 (A), FIG. Similarly, in the priority rule determination table shown in FIG. 36 and the effect mode determination table shown in FIG. 36D, when super reach is executed, an execution mode (determination with higher expectation) than when normal reach is executed. The ratio determined in (item) may be increased.

  Next, the CPU 101 for effect control uses the second notice effect (step-up notice effect) execution determination table shown in FIG. 35 (B) based on the random number for the notice effect execution determination to use the second notice effect (step-up). It is determined whether or not to execute (notice effect) (step S5002).

  The second notice effect (step-up notice effect) is an effect in which an effect in which a specific character is displayed on the effect display device 9 is executed in a plurality of stages, and becomes a super reach or a big hit. Executed to suggest. Further, in this embodiment, the second notice effect (step-up notice effect) can be developed from the first step to the fourth step, and depending on which step is developed, it becomes super reach, It is executed so that the degree of expectation that becomes a big hit is different.

  FIG. 35 (B) is an explanatory diagram showing a second notice effect (step-up notice effect) execution determination table. In the second notice effect (step-up notice effect) execution determination table, a determination item (execution mode of the second notice effect: “none”, “first pattern”, “second pattern”, “third” is set for each variation pattern. A determination value corresponding to “pattern” or “fourth pattern”) is assigned.

  In the second notice effect (step-up notice effect) execution determination table shown in FIG. 35 (B), the characteristic is that the display result is a big hit rather than a loss, and even if the display result is the same, the variation pattern The higher the degree of expectation is, the higher the ratio that is determined as the execution mode “fourth pattern” is, and the display result is far from the big hit, and the expectation of the variation pattern is lower even if the display result is the same. As it is, the determination value is set so that the ratio of the execution mode “first pattern” or “none” is higher. By having such a feature, when the second notice effect is executed rather than when the second notice effect is not executed, the execution mode is more than the second pattern and the second pattern than the first pattern. In the third pattern, the fourth pattern is higher than the third pattern, and the ratio of occurrence of big hits in the display of the change of the notice target is increased, and the ratio of super reach with high expectation level for the big hits is increased. can do. Accordingly, it is possible to give the player a sense of expectation for the execution of the second notice effect. In addition, when the execution mode is the second pattern rather than the first pattern, the third pattern than the second pattern, and the fourth pattern than the third pattern, the degree of expectation can be increased, and the second notice effect can be achieved. It is possible to give the player a sense of expectation for the execution mode.

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 uses the third notice effect (button notice effect) execution determination table shown in FIG. 35 (C) based on the random number for the notice effect execution determination, and uses the third notice effect (button notice effect). ) Is determined (step S5003).

  In the third notice effect (button notice effect), an image of the envelope and an image prompting the user to press the operation button 120 are displayed on the effect display device 9, and when the operation button 120 is pressed, the image of the envelope is displayed. It is an effect that is displayed by changing to a specific image, and is executed to suggest that it is a super reach or a big hit. In this embodiment, the third notice effect (button notice effect) can be changed into a plurality of types of specific images (for example, “hot heat” or “heat”), and can be changed in any way. Depending on what is done, it is executed in such a way that the degree of expectation that becomes super reach and jackpot is different.

  FIG. 35C is an explanatory diagram illustrating a third notice effect (button notice effect) execution determination table. In the third notice effect (button notice effect) execution determination table, a determination corresponding to a decision item (execution mode of the third notice effect: “none”, “first pattern”, or “second pattern”) for each variation pattern. A value has been assigned.

  In the third notice effect (button notice effect) execution determination table shown in FIG. 35C, it is characteristic that the display result is a big hit rather than an outage, and even if the display result is the same, the variation pattern is changed. The higher the degree of expectation, the higher the ratio of the execution mode being determined as “second pattern”, and the more distant the display result is than the big hit. In other words, the determination value is set so that the rate at which the execution mode “first pattern” or “none” is determined is high. By having such a feature, when the third notice effect is executed and when the third notice effect is executed, the execution mode is the second pattern rather than the first pattern. It is possible to increase the rate at which a big hit occurs in the variable display of the notice target, or to increase the rate at which super reach with a high expectation level for a big hit is performed. Therefore, it is possible to give the player a sense of expectation for the execution of the third notice effect. In addition, when the execution mode is the second pattern rather than the first pattern, the degree of expectation can be increased, and the player can have a sense of expectation with respect to the execution mode of the third notice effect.

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 uses the fourth notice effect (pseudo-continuous notice effect) execution determination table shown in FIG. 35D based on the random number for the notice effect execution determination, and uses the fourth notice effect (pseudo-continuous effect). It is determined whether or not to execute (notice effect) (step S5004).

  The fourth notice effect (pseudo-continuous notice effect) is an effect in which a pseudo-continuous notice image is displayed on the effect display device 9 to suggest that a pseudo-continuous effect (temporary stop and re-change display of the effect symbol) is executed. is there.

  FIG. 35D is an explanatory diagram showing a fourth notice effect (pseudo continuous notice effect) execution determination table. In the fourth notice effect (pseudo-continuous notice effect) execution determination table, a decision item (execution mode of the fourth notice effect: “none”, “yes” is provided for the variation pattern “with pseudo-continuous” or “without pseudo-continuous”. )) Is assigned.

  In the fourth notice effect (pseudo continuous notice effect) execution determination table shown in FIG. 35 (D), the characteristic is that if the variation pattern includes a pseudo continuous effect, the ratio that the execution mode is determined to be “present”. The determination value is set so as to increase. By providing such a feature, when the variation pattern includes the pseudo-continuous effect, the fourth notice effect (pseudo-continuous notice effect) is executed as compared with the variation pattern that does not include the pseudo-continuous effect. And the reliability of the pseudo-continuous notice effect can be increased.

  Note that, in the example shown in FIG. 35D, the ratio at which the fourth notice effect (pseudo-continuous notice effect) is executed differs depending on whether or not the fluctuation pattern includes a pseudo-continuous effect. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, among the variation patterns including the pseudo-continuous effects, the ratio at which the fourth notice effect (pseudo-continuous notice effect) is executed may be set to be different depending on the number of pseudo-continuous effects. The fourth notice effect (pseudo-continuous notice effect) may be executed a plurality of times, and the number of times the fourth notice effect (pseudo-continuous notice effect) is executed may be set differently depending on the number of pseudo-continuous effects. . In addition, the fourth notice effect (pseudo continuous notice effect) can be executed in a plurality of effect forms (for example, different execution timings), and the fourth notice effect (pseudo continuous notice effect) is executed according to the number of times of pseudo ream. The production mode may be different (for example, when the number of pseudo-continuous times is large, the timing to be executed is late, and when the number of pseudo-continuous times is small, the rate at which the timing to be executed is high is high). In this embodiment, the determination value is set so that it is determined that the fourth notice effect (pseudo-continuous notice effect) is executed even if the variation pattern does not include the pseudo-continuous effect. Even if the fourth notice effect (pseudo-continuous notice effect) is executed, the pseudo-continuous effect may not be executed. For example, when the variation pattern does not include the pseudo-continuous effect, the fourth notice effect (pseudo-continuous effect) The ratio at which it is determined to execute the (notice effect) may be 0, and the pseudo-continuous effect may be executed whenever the fourth notification effect (pseudo-continuous notice effect) is executed. Further, when a plurality of types of fourth notice effects (pseudo-continuous notice effects) are provided and the first fourth notice effect (pseudo-continuous notice effects) is executed, then the pseudo-continuous effects are executed at a high rate (that is, If the second fourth notice effect (pseudo-continuous notice effect) is executed, the pseudo-continuous effect may always be executed after that.

  Next, the CPU 101 for effect control checks whether or not there is a notice effect determined to be executed in the processes of steps S5001 to S5004 (step S5004A). If there is, the process proceeds to step S5005, and if not, the process ends.

  In step S5005, the effect control CPU 101 determines the upper limit number of the notice effects to be executed using the notice effect upper limit number determination table shown in FIG. 36A based on the random number for determining the notice effect upper limit number. In this embodiment, the execution determination process for each notice effect is performed in steps S5001 to S5004. However, not all the notice effects that are determined to be executed by those processes are executed, but the number of notice effects to be executed is predetermined. It is limited to be less than the upper limit of. In step S5005, the upper limit number is determined.

  FIG. 36A is an explanatory diagram showing a notice effect upper limit number determination table. In the notice effect upper limit determination table, a determination value corresponding to a determination item (upper limit: “1”, “2”, “3”, or “4”) is assigned to each variation pattern.

  In the notice effect upper limit determination table shown in FIG. 36 (A), what is characteristic is that the display result is a big hit rather than a loss, and even if the display result is the same, the expectation of the variation pattern increases. When the upper limit number “4” is judged to be higher and the display result is far from the big hit, and the expected result of the variation pattern is lower even with the same display result, the upper limit number “1” is determined. In other words, the determination value is set so that the ratio to be executed becomes high. By having such features, if the number of announcements to be executed is large, the ratio of occurrence of big hits in the variable display of the notice target is increased, and super reach with high expectation of big hits is high. The rate at which it is performed can be increased. Therefore, it is possible to give the player a sense of expectation with respect to the number of notice effects to be executed. In addition, the number of executions of the notice effect is not restricted uniformly, but different restrictions can be provided depending on the degree of expectation (variation patterns and display results), enabling flexible design for the notice effect. Can do.

  Next, the production control CPU 101 determines the priority rule using the priority rule determination table shown in FIG. 36B based on the random number for determining the priority rule. In the priority rule, the priority order of the notice effect is set. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 36C, a plurality of types of priority rules are provided, and the number of notice effects to be executed is determined in step S5005 according to any of the determined priority rules. It is limited to be less than the upper limit.

  A characteristic of the priority rule table shown in FIG. 36C is that the third pattern and the fourth pattern are prioritized in the fourth notice effect (pseudo-continuous notice effect) as compared to the first pattern and the second pattern. Is expensive. In relation to this, what is characteristic in the priority rule determination table shown in FIG. 36 (B) is that the variation pattern including the pseudo-continuous effect is first compared to the first pattern and the second pattern. The determination value is set so that the ratio determined for the third pattern and the fourth pattern is increased. By providing such a feature, when the variation pattern includes a pseudo-continuous effect, the pseudo-continuous notice effect is preferentially executed (that is, not subject to execution restriction). Therefore, it is possible to prevent the pseudo-continuous notice effect from being difficult to be executed, and it is possible to make a flexible design related to the notice effect.

  Also, what is characteristic in the priority rule determination table shown in FIG. 36B is that the display result is a big hit rather than a loss, and the higher the expectation of the variation pattern is, the higher the expected value of the variation pattern is. The ratio of the priority rule “second pattern” or “fourth pattern” is higher and the display result is more dissatisfied than the big hit, and the expected degree of the variation pattern is lower even if the display result is the same. In other words, the determination value is set so that the ratio of the priority rule “first pattern” or “third pattern” is increased. In relation to this, what is characteristic in the priority rule table shown in FIG. 36C is that, in the priority rule “second pattern” or “fourth pattern”, the third notice effect> the second notice effect. The priority order is higher in the order of the first notice effect, and in the priority rule “first pattern” or “third pattern”, the priority order is set higher in the order of the first notice effect> the second notice effect> the third notice effect. It is that. By having such a feature, the priority rule “second pattern” or “fourth pattern” is displayed in the variable display of the notice target rather than the priority rule “first pattern” or “third pattern”. It is possible to increase the rate at which jackpots are generated and increase the rate at which super-reach with a high expectation level for jackpots is performed. That is, the degree of expectation of the notice effect can be increased in the order of priority of the priority rule “second pattern” or “fourth pattern”, third notice effect> second notice effect> first notice effect. Therefore, by changing the priority rule according to the degree of expectation (variation pattern and display result), the priority order of each notice effect can be varied according to the degree of expectation (variation pattern and display result) at the same time. Can be designed flexibly.

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 determines a notice effect to be executed based on the upper limit number and the priority rule (step S5007). In step S5007, according to the priority rule determined in step S5006, the number of the notice effects to be executed is equal to or less than the upper limit number determined in step S5005 among the notice effects determined to be executed in steps S5001 to S5004. Final announcement will be finalized.

  For example, when it is determined that all the notice effects are executed in steps S5001 to S5004, the upper limit number determined in step S5005 is 2, and the priority rule determined in step S5006 is “second pattern”, the priority rule In the “second pattern”, the third notice effect having a high priority and the second notice effect are finally determined to be executed, and the execution of the first notice effect and the fourth notice effect is restricted.

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 determines the execution mode of each notice effect determined to be executed in step S5007, using the effect mode determination table shown in FIG. 36D, based on the random number for determining the effect mode. . In this embodiment, the notice effect can be executed by setting the display form of the notice effect as a normal effect aspect or an arabesque motif form common to each notice effect.

  FIG. 36D is an explanatory diagram showing an effect mode determination table. In the effect mode determination table, a determination value corresponding to a determination item (“normal effect mode” or “arabesque motif mode”) is assigned to each variation pattern.

  The characteristic of the effect mode determination table shown in FIG. 36D is that the display result is a big hit rather than a loss, and the higher the expectation of the variation pattern, the higher the expected degree of the variation pattern. The ratio that is determined as “motif” is high, and the display result is determined to be “normal effect mode” as the expected result of the variation pattern is lower even if the display result is far from the big hit, and even if the display result is the same. The determination value is set so that the ratio becomes high. By having such features, those who perform the announcement effect in the arabesque motif mode will increase the rate of occurrence of jackpots in the variable display of the notice target, and super-reach with high expectation to be a jackpot Can be increased. Therefore, it is possible to give the player a sense of expectation for the effect mode of the notice effect to be executed.

  In this embodiment, for all the notice effects to be executed, the effect mode is determined to be the normal effect mode or the arabesque motif mode, respectively. According to the effect mode determination table shown in FIG. For example, although the ratio determined for the arabesque motif mode is the same for any of the notice effects, the ratio is not limited to this, and the ratio may be different for each notice effect. Further, for example, the ratio determined as the arabesque motif mode may be different depending on the combination of the variation pattern and the notice effect to be executed or the combination with the priority rule. In this embodiment, the number of the notice effects performed in the arabesque motif mode is not limited, but an upper limit number of the notice effects performed in the arabesque motif mode may be provided. In addition, the upper limit number of the notice effects performed in the arabesque motif mode may be determined using random numbers according to the degree of expectation related to the game (variation pattern, display result (missing or jackpot), etc.). Further, it may be determined in advance in association with the variation pattern, the display result (out-going or big hit), the big hit type, and the like. In this case, for example, after determining the upper limit number of the notice effects to be executed in the arabesque motif aspect, among the notice effects to be executed, the effect aspects are determined in order from the notice effect having a high priority according to the priority rule, This may be repeated until the number determined as the arabesque motif mode reaches the upper limit number (or until the production mode of all the notice effects to be executed is determined). Also, for example, after determining the upper limit number of the notice effects to be executed in the arabesque motif mode, the notice effects to be executed until the upper limit number is reached in order from the notice effect with the highest priority according to the priority rule (or all the notice effects) ) May be determined as the arabesque motif mode (that is, the production mode is not determined for each notice production). By doing in this way, the number of notice effects performed in the arabesque motif mode can be limited according to the degree of expectation regarding the game.

  If the variation pattern includes pseudo-continuous effects, the notice effect that is determined to be executed may be executed only once until the stop symbol is derived and displayed, or may be executed for each re-variation. It may be.

  Further, for example, a notice effect to be executed for each re-variation may be determined. This can be realized, for example, by determining the timing (and the number of times) of executing each notice effect when the variation pattern includes a pseudo-continuous effect after step S5008. In this case, for example, when the number of re-variations is small (for example, twice), the rate at which the pseudo-continuous notice effect is executed at an early timing (for example, the first re-variation) is increased, and the number of re-variations is large. (For example, three times) By increasing the rate at which the pseudo-continuous notice effect is executed at a late timing (for example, the second time of re-variation), the expectation of the pseudo-continuous effect by the pseudo-continuous notice effect can be varied. . If the variation pattern includes a pseudo-continuous effect, the process of steps S5001 to S5008 is repeated for the number of re-variations to determine whether or not to execute each notice effect for each re-variation (and effect mode). You may do it.

  The presence / absence of the notice effect and the effect aspect determined as described above are stored (set) in a predetermined storage area (notice effect storage area) of the ROM in the effect control microcomputer 100.

  According to the notice effect setting process shown in FIG. 34, the notice effects that have been determined to be executed among the plurality of notice effects in Steps S5001 to S5004 are executed according to the priority rule. By limiting, a notice effect that is less than the upper limit is executed. By performing the processing in such a flow, it is possible to share a processing routine and prevent a complicated mechanism from occurring. For example, after determining the upper limit number and priority rule first, according to the priority rule, if it is a flow to determine whether or not to execute in order from the notice effect with the highest priority, according to the upper limit number and priority rule determined earlier Since the flow of subsequent processing changes, the processing routine cannot be shared, resulting in a complicated mechanism.

  Note that according to the notice effect setting process shown in FIG. 34, the upper limit number of priority notice effects to be executed and the priority rule are determined using random numbers, but the present invention is not limited to this. It may be determined in advance in association with the type of jackpot or big hit.

  For example, the upper limit is 1 for non-reach out, 2 for normal reach out, 3 for super reach out, 3 for normal reach big hit, 4 for super reach big hit, It may be determined in advance in association with each other.

  In addition, the priority rules are the first pattern in the case of non-reach deviation, the first pattern in the case of normal reach deviation (no pseudo-continuity), the first pattern in the case of super-reach deviation (no pseudo-ream), and the normal reach big hit. The second pattern in the case of (no quasi-continuous), the second pattern in the case of super reach big hit (no quasi-continuous), the third pattern in the case of normal reach out (with pseudo continuity), and the super reach out (in pseudo continuous) 3) in the case of (Yes), 4th pattern in the case of normal reach big hit (with pseudo-ream), and 4th pattern in the case of super reach big hit (with pseudo-ream). Also good.

  Also, according to the notice effect setting process shown in FIG. 34, the effect aspect is determined in step S5008 for the notice effect determined to be executed in step S5007. For example, before step S5007, in steps S5001 to S5004. The effect mode of each notice effect determined to be executed is determined (corresponding to step S5008), and the priority order in the priority rule determined in step S5006 is changed for the notice effect determined to be the arabesque motif form. Also good.

  FIG. 37 is a flowchart showing the effect symbol variation in-process (step S802) in the effect control process. In the effect symbol variation process, the effect control CPU 101 subtracts 1 from the value of the process timer (step S841) and subtracts 1 from the value of the variation time timer (step S842). When the process timer times out (step S843), the process data is switched. That is, the process timer is started again by setting the process timer setting value set next in the process table in the process timer (step S844). Further, the control state for the effect device (effect component) is changed based on the display control execution data, lamp control execution data, sound number data, and movable member control data set next (step S845).

  Next, in step S845, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the step-up notice effect is executed according to the contents of the process data (display control execution data or the like) (step S846). When the step-up notice effect is being executed (Y in step S846), the effect control CPU 101 determines whether it is the switching timing of the step-up notice effect based on the contents of the process data (step S847). If it is the switching timing of the step-up notice effect (Y in step S847), it is confirmed whether or not the notice effect of the step after the change is the display target of the arabesque motif mode (step S848). If it is the display target of the arabesque motif mode, the CPU 101 for effect control appears the arabesque motif mode according to the contents of the process data (particularly, the display control execution data including the notice effect, the lamp control execution data and the movable member control data). The step-up notice effect is switched (changed, developed) in the display mode (step S849). If it is not a display object of the arabesque motif mode, the production control CPU 101 performs a step in a normal display mode according to the contents of the process data (particularly, the display control execution data including the announcement effect, the lamp control execution data, and the movable member control data). The up notice effect switching (change, development) is executed (step S850).

  Next, the CPU 101 for effect control confirms whether or not it is the execution timing of the button notice effect (step S851). Whether or not it is the execution timing of the button notice effect can be confirmed, for example, by confirming the value of the variable time timer. If it is the execution timing of the button notice effect (Y in step S851), the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the button notice effect is a display object of the arabesque motif mode (step S852). If it is the display target of the arabesque motif mode, the CPU 101 for effect control executes the button notice effect in the display mode in which the arabesque motif mode appears (step S853). If it is not the display target of the arabesque motif mode, the CPU 101 for effect control executes the button notice effect in the normal display mode (step S854).

  Next, the CPU 101 for effect control confirms whether or not it is time to display the arabesque motif mode other than the other notice effects (step S855). For example, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the display timing of the arabesque motif-like mini character notice effect or pseudo-continuous notice effect is reached based on the value of the variation time timer. Then, if the display timing of the other arabesque motif mode is reached, the CPU 101 for effect control performs control to display the mini character preview effect or pseudo-continuous notification effect of the arabesque motif mode (step S856).

  If the variation time timer has timed out (step S857), the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the effect symbol variation stop process (step S803) (step S859). Even if the variable time timer has not timed out, if the confirmation command reception flag indicating that the symbol confirmation designation command has been received is set (step S858), the process proceeds to step S859. Even if the variation time timer has not timed out, if the symbol confirmation designation command is received, the process shifts to control to stop variation.For example, a variation pattern command indicating a long variation time due to noise between substrates is received. Even in such a case, it is possible to end the variation of the effect symbol when the regular variation time has elapsed (when the variation of the special symbol ends).

  FIG. 38 is a flowchart showing the effect symbol variation stop process (step S803) in the effect control process. In the effect symbol variation stop process, first, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not a stop symbol display flag indicating that the stop symbol of the effect symbol is being displayed is set (step S870). If the stop symbol display flag is set, the process proceeds to step S877. In this embodiment, when a big hit symbol is displayed as the stop symbol of the effect symbol, a stop symbol display flag is set in step S876. Then, the stop symbol display flag is reset when the fanfare effect is executed. Accordingly, the fact that the stop symbol display flag is set is a stage where the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed but the fanfare effect is not yet executed, and therefore the processing of displaying the stop symbol of the effect symbol in steps S871 to S876. Without execution, the process proceeds to step S877.

  When the stop symbol display flag is not set, the effect control CPU 101 sets a confirmation command reception flag indicating that the effect control command (design confirmation designation command) for instructing to stop changing the effect symbol is received. It is confirmed whether or not there is (step S871). If the confirmation command reception flag is set, control is performed to stop and display the determined stop symbol (outgoing symbol, small hit symbol or big hit symbol) (step S872).

  In this embodiment, the effect control CPU 101 performs control to stop and display the effect symbol in response to receiving the symbol confirmation designation command from the game control microcomputer 560, but the variable time timer has timed out. Based on that, the effect design may be stopped and displayed.

  When the small hit symbol or the big hit display symbol is not displayed in the process of step S872 (that is, when the off-beat symbol is displayed), the effect control CPU 101 sets the value of the effect control process flag to the process of waiting for the variation pattern command. The value is updated according to (Step S800) (Step S874).

  When the small hit symbol or the big hit symbol is stopped and displayed in the process of step S872, the CPU 101 for effect control sets a stop symbol display flag (step S876) and specifies the big hit start designation indicating that the big hit start designation command has been received. Whether the command reception flag (big hit start 1 designation command reception flag or big hit start 2 designation command reception flag) or the small hit / surprise start designation command reception flag indicating that a small hit / surprise start designation command has been received is set Confirmation is made (step S877). When the big hit start designation command reception flag or the small hit / surprise start designation command reception flag is set, the effect control CPU 101 resets the stop symbol display flag (step S878), and a process table corresponding to the fanfare effect. Is selected (step S879).

  Next, the production control CPU 101 starts the process timer by setting the process timer set value in the process timer (step S880), and the contents of the process data 1 (display control execution data 1, lamp control execution data 1, sound number) According to the data 1, the movable member control data 1), the production device (the production display device 9 as the production component, various lamps as the production component, the speaker 27 as the production component, and the movable member 78 as the production component and production. The blades 79a and 79b) are controlled (step S881). Thereafter, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the jackpot display process (step S804) (step S882).

  FIG. 39 is a flowchart showing the jackpot display process (step S804) in the effect control process. In the big hit display process, the effect control CPU 101 first checks whether or not the big winning opening display reception flag indicating that the big winning opening display command has been received is set (step S1871). The special winning opening open display reception flag is set based on the reception of the special winning opening open display command in the command analysis process (see step S704). When the display reception flag at the time of the big prize opening is not set (N in step S1871), the effect control CPU 101 subtracts 1 from the value of the process timer (step S1872), and the effect device (in accordance with the contents of the process data n) Control of the effect display device 9 as an effect part, various lamps as an effect part, the speaker 27 as an effect part, and a movable member 78 and effect blades 79a and 79b as effect parts are executed ( Step S1873). For example, the effect display device 9 displays a jackpot display symbol and performs an effect of displaying a character or character indicating that a jackpot has occurred.

  Next, the production control CPU 101 checks whether or not the process timer has timed out (step S1874), and if the process timer has timed out, switches the process data (step S1875). That is, the process data (display control execution data, lamp control execution data, and sound number data) set next in the process table is switched. Then, the process timer set value in the next process data is set in the process timer, and the process timer is started (step S1876).

  When the display reception flag at the time of opening of the big prize opening is set (Y of step S1871), the effect control CPU 101 produces the effect during the round (round according to the number of rounds) based on the contents of the display command at the time of opening of the big prize opening. An effect for executing display is selected (step S1877). Next, the display reception flag when the special winning opening is opened is reset (step S1878), and the process data corresponding to the effect during the round is selected (step S1879). Then, the process timer is started (step S1880), and the value of the effect control process flag is set to a value corresponding to the in-round processing (step S805) (step S1881).

  FIG. 40 is a flowchart showing the jackpot end effect process (step S807) in the effect control process. In the big hit end effect process, the effect control CPU 101 first decrements the value of the effect period measurement timer by 1 (step S971) and confirms whether or not the effect period measurement timer has timed out (step S972).

  When the production period measurement timer has not timed out (N in step S972), the production control CPU 101 subtracts 1 from the value of the process timer (step S973). Next, the production control CPU 101 performs the production device (the production display device 9 as the production component, various lamps as the production component, the speaker 27 as the production component, and the movable as the production component according to the contents of the process data n. A process of controlling the member 78 and the effect blades 79a and 79b) is executed (step S974). For example, by displaying that the jackpot ends or by displaying a predetermined character on the display screen of the effect display device 9 and displaying a sentence such as “See you!” As a character line, the jackpot ends. Is notified.

  Then, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the process timer has timed out (step S975), and if the process timer has timed out, switches the process data (step S976). Then, the process timer set value in the next process data is set in the process timer and the process timer is started (step S977).

  When the production period measurement timer times out (Y in step S972), the production control CPU 101 sets the value of the production control process flag to a value corresponding to the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800) (step S978). .

  Next, specific examples of the first notice effect (mini-character notice effect) and the second notice effect (step-up notice effect) will be described. The first notice effect (mini-character notice effect) and the second notice effect (step-up notice effect) are executed at an arbitrary timing from the start of change of the effect symbol to the stop of change.

  The first notice effect (mini character notice effect) includes three patterns. In the first pattern of the first notice effect (mini-character notice effect) shown in FIG. 41 (a1), the effect that the beetle character flies from the right side of the screen in the area above the display screen of the effect display device 9 is performed. In the second pattern shown in FIG. 41 (a2), the effect that the beetle character perches on the tree is performed in the area above the display screen of the effect display device 9. In the third pattern shown in FIG. 41 (a3), an effect is produced in which the wind blows in the area above the display screen of the effect display device 9 and the tree shakes.

  In the step-up notice effect, as shown in FIG. 41 (b1), as shown in step 1, an effect in which a human character A appears from the right side of the screen in the area below the display screen of the effect display device 9 and leaves to the left side of the screen. Done. In addition, as shown in FIG. 41 (b2), as step 2, an effect is performed in which a human character B appears from the right side of the screen in the area below the display screen of the effect display device 9 and leaves to the left side of the screen. Also, as shown in FIG. 41 (b3), as step 3, an effect in which a human character C appears from the right side of the screen in the area below the display screen of the effect display device 9 and leaves to the left side of the screen is performed. Further, as shown in FIG. 41 (b4), as step 4, characters A, B, and C simultaneously appear from the left of the screen in the area below the display screen of the effect display device 9 and stop at the center of the screen. Is called.

  Next, a specific example when an arabesque motif mode appears in the first notice effect (mini character notice effect) will be described. FIG. 42 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example when an arabesque motif mode appears in the first notice effect (mini-character notice effect). For example, when it is not determined to execute the first pattern of the first notice effect (mini character notice effect) in the arabesque motif form, as shown in FIG. While the tree 200 is displayed in a pattern in which the pattern is displayed in green and brown colors such as green and brown, the first pattern of the first notice effect (mini character notice effect) is executed in the arabesque motif form. In the case where the tree 200A is determined as shown in FIG. 42B, the tree 200A is displayed in the arabesque motif mode (specifically, the arabesque pattern). In this embodiment, the arabesque pattern is shown as a motif pattern. However, the motif pattern may be another pattern such as a floral pattern or a color.

  Next, a specific example in the case where an arabesque motif mode appears in the second notice effect (step-up notice effect) will be described. FIG. 43 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example when an arabesque motif mode appears in the second notice effect (step-up notice effect). For example, when it is not determined to execute the second pattern of the second notice effect (step-up notice effect) in the arabesque motif form, as shown in FIG. 43 (A), a normal display form (for example, Whereas the person B211 is displayed in a predetermined clothes pattern and color), the second pattern of the second notice effect (step-up notice effect) is decided to be executed in the arabesque motif form. In the case of being present, as shown in FIG. 43 (B), an effect of displaying the tree figure B211A in an arabesque motif mode (specifically, an arabesque pattern) is performed. In this embodiment, the arabesque pattern is shown as a motif pattern. However, the motif pattern may be another pattern such as a floral pattern or a color.

  Next, a specific example of the third notice effect (button notice effect) will be described. FIG. 44 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example in which an arabesque motif mode appears in a button notice effect. As shown in FIG. 44, in the left middle right symbol display areas 9L, 9C, and 9R, when the left middle right effect symbols are stopped (7-1), when the start condition is satisfied, all the effect symbols change. Is started (7-2), and at the start timing of the third notice effect (button notice effect), “envelope 230A” and “display contents 231 of operation buttons” are displayed in the display area below the display screen of the effect display device 9. Is displayed (7-3). This notifies that the button notice effect is being executed and prompts the operation of the operation button 120. In this case, the display content 230A of the envelope displayed on the effect display device 9 is displayed in the arabesque motif mode.

  In this embodiment, for example, when it is not decided to execute the third notice effect (button notice effect) in the arabesque motif mode, in FIGS. 44 (7-3) and (7-4), When the envelope is displayed in a display mode (for example, a pattern is displayed in white color with no pattern), whereas the third notice effect (button notice effect) is decided to be executed in the arabesque motif form. As shown in FIGS. 44 (7-3) and (7-4), an effect of displaying the envelope 230A in an arabesque motif mode (specifically, an arabesque pattern) is performed. In this embodiment, the arabesque pattern is shown as a motif pattern. However, the motif pattern may be another pattern such as a floral pattern or a color.

  When the player operates the operation button 120 (or after a predetermined period of time when no operation is performed), the envelope is opened, the display content 232 is displayed, and the possibility of a big hit is predicted (7-4). In this example, since the display content 232 is “extremely hot”, the player recognizes that the possibility of a big hit is high. In this embodiment, even if the operation button 120 is not operated, when a predetermined period elapses, the envelope is opened and the display content 232 is displayed to predict the possibility of a big hit. If the above operation is not performed, the envelope may not be opened and the advance notice may not be performed.

  Next, a specific example of the fourth notice effect (pseudo continuous notice effect) will be described. FIG. 45 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of the pseudo-continuous notice effect. As shown in FIG. 45, in the left middle right symbol display areas 9L, 9C, and 9R, when the start condition is satisfied from the state where the left middle right production symbol is stopped (8-1), all the variation of the production symbols is achieved. Is started (3-2), and when it is the start timing of the fourth notice effect (pseudo-continuous notice effect), in the display area below the display screen of the effect display device 9, "character 233 with chance character attached" Is displayed (8-3). This suggests that a pseudo-continuous effect is executed. In the case where the arabesque motif mode is executed for the pseudo-continuous notice effect, for example, the chance character is displayed in the arabesque motif mode.

  Thereafter, the chance symbol including the special symbol (star symbol) is temporarily stopped and displayed (8-4), and re-variation is performed.

  As described above, according to this embodiment, the production control microcomputer 100 executes the notice effect determining means for determining the replay effect to be executed during the variation display of the effect symbol among the plurality of notice effects. Then, a notice effect execution means for executing the determined notice effect is provided. The notice effect determining means determines the number of notice effects to be executed according to a priority rule in which the priority order of the notice effects is determined according to a predetermined expectation level regarding the game (for example, whether there is a variation pattern or a big hit). The notice effect is determined to be less than the number (in this example, the upper limit number or less). For example, as disclosed in the prior art, when determining a notice effect so that the number of notice effects to be executed is less than a predetermined number according to a single priority rule, a predetermined expectation degree regarding the game Regardless of (for example, the presence or absence of a variation pattern or a big hit), a notice effect with a high priority is simply executed, and variations are scarce. In contrast, according to this embodiment, according to the degree of expectation regarding the game, the priority order of the notice effects is varied, and the notice effects are determined so that the number of the notice effects to be executed is less than the predetermined number. Therefore, it is possible to make a flexible design related to the notice effect, and to improve the game entertainment.

  In this embodiment, the fluctuation pattern (reach expectation) and the big hit expectation are used as the predetermined expectation regarding the game. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the probable expectation that the big hit type at the big hit is a probable big hit. May be considered. In addition, for example, if the number of rounds in the big hit game is different depending on the type of big hit, the expected number of rounds that increases the number of rounds may be considered. Further, for example, if the configuration is controlled to the latent probability changing state in which it is not possible to recognize that the sudden probability change big hit has occurred, the latent expectation degree controlled to the latent probability changing state may be considered. Further, for example, if the number of times to be controlled to the probability change state or the short time state after the big hit game is set, the degree of expectation with respect to the number of times may be considered. In addition, for example, in the notice effect upper limit determination table, the notice effect is executed by configuring the upper limit to be different according to the above jackpot type and the game state (for example, whether or not the latent probability change state). The greater the number of played, the higher the degree of expectation such as probability variation expectation, round number expectation, latent expectation, probability variation count expectation, time reduction count expectation, and the like, and the game entertainment can be improved. Further, the ratio of the priority rules used may vary depending on these expectations. For example, when the latent probability changing notice effect indicating that the latent probability changing state is controlled can be executed, when the latent probability changing state is controlled, a priority rule with a high priority of the latent probability changing notice effect is used. You may make it raise a ratio.

  Moreover, in this embodiment, the notice effect that the notice target is a super reach or a big hit and the pseudo-reed effect is executed is used as an example. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the big hit type is a probable big hit. It may be a notice effect for notifying that it is controlled to a latent probability change state, or that it is promoted to a probability change big hit during a big hit. Further, it may be a pre-reading notice effect executed before the start of target fluctuation based on the determination result of the random number extracted at the time of winning the start.

  Further, in this embodiment, the game control microcomputer 560 determines whether or not to make a big hit based on a predetermining unit that determines before the display result is derived and displayed, and a determination result by the predetermining unit. Variable display pattern determination means for determining a variable display pattern (in this example, a variation pattern). The predetermined number (in this example, the upper limit number) is configured to be different depending on the variable display pattern (the presence or absence of a variation pattern or a big hit). That is, the predetermined number (in this example, the upper limit number) is a variable number. Therefore, it is possible to make a flexible design related to the notice effect according to the variable display pattern, and it is possible to improve game entertainment.

  In this embodiment, the notice effect execution means may display the notice effect in a normal display form (in this example, a normal effect form) or a specific display result derived from the normal display form. The notice effect can be executed as a special display form (in this example, the arabesque motif form) that indicates a high and shows a common motif form in each or all of the notice displays. Therefore, it is possible to make a flexible design related to the notice effect, and to improve the game entertainment.

  In this embodiment, the notice effect is configured to be executed under the same execution conditions (for example, the upper limit number, priority rule, and effect mode) regardless of the game state. The execution condition may be different between the probability variation state (high probability high base) and the short time state (low probability high base).

  In addition, according to this embodiment, the notice effect determining means has different priority rules (in this example, FIG. 36C (C) in accordance with the determination result by the variable display pattern determining means (for example, whether there is a variation pattern or a big hit). ) Is determined so that the number of the notice effects to be executed according to any of the first pattern to the fourth pattern priority rules shown in the priority rule table) is less than a predetermined number. For this reason, for example, when the expectation is a variable display pattern (in this example, a variation pattern), it is possible to use a priority rule with a high priority for the notice effect with a high expectation. It can be flexible and can improve the game entertainment.

  The variable display pattern includes a re-variable display pattern (variation pattern with pseudo-continuous effects) for executing re-variable display a predetermined number of times, and the notice effect determining means is determined as the re-variable display pattern by the variable display pattern determining means. The priority order of the notice effect (fourth notice effect (pseudo-continuous notice effect) in this example) for notifying that the re-variable display is executed as compared with the other priority rules among the plurality of priority rules. The notice effect is executed so that the number of the notice effects executed in accordance with the high priority rule (in this example, the priority rule of the third pattern or the fourth pattern shown in the priority rule table of FIG. 36C) is less than the predetermined number. decide. Therefore, the design related to the notice effect can be made more flexible, and the notice effect for notifying that the re-variable display is executed (in this example, the fourth notice effect (pseudo-continuous notice effect)) should not be easily executed. Can be prevented, and the game entertainment can be improved.

  Further, the notice effect execution means is less than a predetermined number of notice effects according to the priority rule among the notice effects determined to be executed among the plurality of notice effects by the notice effect determining means (steps S5001 to S5004 in this example). Execute. In other words, the execution determination of each notice effect is performed first, and is limited to be less than a predetermined number later according to the priority rule. Therefore, it is possible to share a processing routine.

  In this embodiment, among the notice effects that are determined to be executed among a plurality of notice effects (in this example, steps S5001 to S5004), the notice effects less than a predetermined number are executed according to the priority rule. Although it is configured, the present invention is not limited to this, for example, the upper limit number and priority rule of the notice effect to be executed first are determined, and the upper limit number is reached according to the determined priority rule (that is, in descending order of priority). You may comprise so that it may determine whether a notice effect is performed.

  Further, the production control microcomputer 100 executes at least a specific production (simultaneous production in this example) that outputs a sound based on the clocking means realized by using the real-time clock 108 and the timing result of the clocking means. The specific effect executing means and the volume adjusting means (implemented in accordance with the operation of the operation button 120) that enables the player to adjust the volume, and the specific effect executing means changes the volume adjusted by the volume adjusting means. Thus, the specific effect can be executed (in this example, the volume is changed from the user set value to a predetermined value before the simultaneous effect is started). Therefore, the specific effect can be suitably executed, and the game entertainment can be improved. In this embodiment, the volume can be adjusted by operating the operation button 120. However, the brightness of the decoration LED 25 used for production or the like may be adjusted by operating the operation button 120. For example, in the same manner as the sound volume, this is realized by changing a value for setting the brightness of the decoration LED 25 on the lamp driver board 35 in accordance with the operation of the operation button 120. Further, in this case, the specific effect executing means may execute the specific effect after changing the luminance of the decoration LED 25, similarly to the volume. For example, the process of changing the brightness of the decoration LED 25 from the user set value to a predetermined value is performed before the start of the specific effect. Thereby, a specific effect can be performed suitably and game entertainment can be improved.

  In the above embodiment, a game machine provided with two special symbol indicators (first special symbol indicator 8a and second special symbol indicator 8b) as a variable display unit is taken as an example. The present invention can also be applied to a gaming machine provided with a symbol display.

  In the above-described embodiment, the production control board 80, the audio output board 70, and the lamp driver board 35 are provided as the boards on which the circuit for controlling the production apparatus is mounted. You may mount on one board | substrate. Further, a first effect control board (display control board) on which a circuit for controlling the effect display device 9 and the like is mounted and a circuit for controlling other effect devices (lamps, LEDs, speakers 27, etc.) are mounted. You may make it provide two board | substrates with two production | presentation control boards.

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

  In addition, the configuration related to the notice effect shown in the above embodiment is not limited to pachinko gaming machines but can be applied to various forms of gaming machines. For example, you may make it apply the structure regarding the notice effect shown in said embodiment to a slot machine.

  In general, a slot machine is provided with a variable display device having a plurality of (usually three) reels on which a plurality of types of symbols as identification information are drawn on the outer periphery. The rotation of the reels is started by performing a start operation in a state where a predetermined number of bets is set, and the rotation is stopped by operating a stop button provided corresponding to each reel. When all the reels stop rotating, a winning combination is generated when a predetermined combination of winning symbols (for example, 7-7-7) is arranged on the winning line. That is, the game is advanced by the player's operation. In addition, some of these slot machines have a liquid crystal display on the front door, so that the possibility of winning a prize will be announced or the stop button operation order will be suggested. There is something configured. In such a slot machine, for example, in order to suggest the possibility of becoming a bonus or AT, the number of notice effects produced according to different priority rules is less than or equal to the upper limit number according to a predetermined expectation degree regarding the game In this manner, the notice effect may be determined. Moreover, you may comprise so that an upper limit number may differ according to the predetermined | prescribed expectation degree regarding a game. Moreover, you may comprise so that a notice effect may be performed in a common motif aspect.

  Further, for example, the configuration for performing the probability change suggestion shown in the above embodiment may be applied to a sealed circulation pachinko machine. In the enclosed circulation type pachinko machine, a predetermined number (for example, 50) of game balls used in the pachinko machine are enclosed in an enclosed area (for example, in a pachinko machine), and the game area provided in the pachinko machine In order to fire game balls through the game area, collect the game balls via the collection unit (for example, each winning opening, out port, foul ball return opening), and fire the collected game balls again into the game area In the enclosed area. In addition, in such a sealed circulation pachinko machine, when there is a prize at each prize opening, points corresponding to the number of prize balls are added to the card inserted in the card unit instead of the prize balls. Processing is performed. In such an enclosed circulation pachinko machine, the structure of each embodiment described above is applied, and the motif aspect is used in the notice effect to suggest the possibility of a big hit in the production display device of the enclosed circulation pachinko machine. You may comprise so that it may appear. And when it is not a big hit, you may comprise so that the number of the motif aspect which appears may be restrict | limited to less than predetermined number.

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

  Also, in the above embodiment, the gaming machine controlled to the probable change state after the big hit game is shown based on the fact that the big hit type is a probable big hit or a normal big hit and the big hit type is determined to be a promiscuous big hit. It is not limited to such a gaming machine. For example, a special variable winning ball apparatus in which a predetermined probability changing area is provided (a certain variable winning ball apparatus may be provided in a single special variable winning ball apparatus, or a plurality of special variable winning balls may be provided. A probability variation area may be provided in a part of the device), and the probability variation is determined based on the fact that the game ball has passed through the probability variation area in the special variable winning ball device during the big hit game. The configuration described in the above embodiment can also be applied to a gaming machine that is controlled to be in a probable state after completion.

  The present invention is applicable to gaming machines such as pachinko gaming machines, and in particular, variably displays a plurality of types of identification information that can identify each of them, derives and displays a display result, and a specific display predetermined as a display result The present invention is suitably applied to a gaming machine that controls a specific gaming state advantageous to the player when the result is derived and displayed.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Pachinko machine 8a 1st special symbol display 8b 2nd special symbol display 9 Production display device 13 1st start winning opening 14 2nd starting winning opening 15 Variable winning ball apparatus 9a 1st decoration design display 9b 2nd decoration Symbol display 18c Total hold memory display 31 Game control board (main board)
56 CPU
560 Microcomputer for game control 80 Production control board 100 Microcomputer for production control

Claims (1)

A gaming machine that performs variable display and can be controlled to an advantageous state advantageous to the player,
Variable display pattern determining means for determining a variable display pattern;
Variable display executing means for executing variable display based on the determination result by the variable display pattern determining means;
A notice effect determining means for determining a notice effect to be executed among a plurality of notice effects,
A notice effect executing means for executing the notice effect determined to be executed by the notice effect determining means,
According to any of a plurality of priority rules in which the priority order of the notice effect is different according to the determination result by the variable display pattern determining means, the number of the notice effects that are executed is limited to be less than a predetermined number. To play.

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