JP6420982B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine capable of playing games.

  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 becomes a specific display result in the variable display device, the game state (game There is a machine configured to give a predetermined game value to a player by changing the state of the machine (specifically, the state where the gaming machine is controlled) (so-called pachinko 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 variable winning ball apparatus provided in the gaming area of the gaming machine becomes advantageous for a player who is easy to win, and the right for becoming advantageous for a player. In other words, or a condition for winning a prize ball is easily established.

  A variable winning ball apparatus which is arranged at a specific position in the game area and can be changed to a state in which a game medium can enter, and a timing at which the variable winning ball apparatus can enter a game medium (open state) according to the extracted value. Lottery means for lottery, control means for controlling the variable winning ball device to the open state at the timing lottered by the lottery means, and prior notification means for informing the timing when the variable winning ball device is in the open state. A pachinko gaming machine is disclosed in Patent Document 1.

JP 2004-16363 A

  However, in the pachinko gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, it is possible to know in advance the timing at which the variable winning ball device is opened by the prior notification means, but it is possible to enter the variable entry means. It was difficult for the player to recognize whether or not the game medium was fired.

  Therefore, the present invention has been conceived in view of such circumstances, and its purpose is to allow a player to recognize that a game medium has been launched in a period during which there is a possibility of entering the variable entry means. It is to provide a gaming machine that can.

(Means 1) A gaming machine according to the present invention is a gaming machine capable of playing a game (for example, a pachinko gaming machine 1),
Launching means (eg, hitting ball launching device 550) for launching a game medium (eg, game ball);
Game medium to a predetermined area capable capable enters entry conditions (e.g., open) and changeable variable enter means (e.g., the variable winning ball apparatus (character object) 24),
Notifying means (for example, the production control CPU 101 outputs a sound emission from the speaker 27 in such a manner that it can be specified that the game medium has been fired in a period (for example, a notification target period) that may enter the predetermined area. , or the like to turn on the rail tip LED28a to fit the firing) and provided with,
The accessible state includes a first accessible state and a second accessible state that is easier to enter than the first accessible state,
The notification means can perform different notifications depending on whether the variable approach means changes to any one of the enterable states .

  With such a configuration, the player can recognize that the game medium has been launched in a period during which there is a possibility of entering the variable entry means, and whether the player enters the variable entry means and the movement of the game medium. You can get more attention.

(Means 2) In the means 1, the progress of the game is controlled, and it is possible to control to an advantageous state advantageous to the player based on the fact that the predetermined display result is derived and displayed as the variable display result on the variable display means for performing variable display. Yes, when the specific display result is derived and displayed as the variable display result, the variable entry means is controlled to the enterable state, and the specific area (for example, V prize area) provided in the predetermined area in the enterable state A game control means (for example, a game control microcomputer 560) that can be controlled to an advantageous state (for example, a big hit game state) based on the passage of the game medium to
When the variable display result is derived and displayed by the variable display means, a predetermined period as a period until at least the variable display (for example, the first special symbol, the second special symbol, or the effect symbol) is started is started. A confirmation display means (for example, a part in which the game control microcomputer 560 executes steps S22, S1301 to S1308, S3203 to S3204) for confirming the time and variable display results ;
The confirmation display means, when the variable display result is the specific display results, than when the variable display result is a predetermined display result, shorten the time for confirming display the variable display results.

With such a configuration, it is possible to make an early transition to the specific gaming state.
(Means 3) In the means 1 or 2, the variable entry means has a plurality of open states in which a game medium can enter (for example, the release pattern is changed depending on the small hit type), and the notification means Notification of a different mode according to the opening mode of the entry means (for example, changing the type of the emitted sound to be output) is performed.

  With such a configuration, the notification becomes different depending on the state of the state in which the variable approach means can enter, and the interest can be improved.

  (Means 4) In the means 1, before passing the specific area (for example, V winning area) provided in the variable entry means, the advantage after the game medium passes the specific area (for example, 4R big hit, Advantage level determination means for determining a 4R short-time bonus hit or a gaming state such as 16R short-time bonus hit (for example, the CPU 56 determines a small hit type according to the small hit type determination table shown in FIG. 10E), and the notification means Is different in accordance with the degree of advantage determined by the degree of advantage determining means (for example, as in the case of the sound pattern table shown in FIG. ).

  With such a configuration, it is possible to pay more attention to whether or not the launched game medium enters the variable entry means and whether or not it passes through the specific area.

  (Means 5) In the means 1 to means 4, the notification means cancels the firing operation on the firing means (for example, the game confirmation ball 37 cannot be detected by the launch confirmation switch 37b, and the effect control CPU 101 issues a launch ball detection designation command. Notification is stopped based on (when not received).

With such a configuration, it is possible to avoid inconsistency in notification by the notification means.
(Means 6) Variable display means (for example, first special symbol display) for performing variable display of a plurality of types of identification information that can be identified (for example, the first special symbol, the second special symbol, and the production symbol) in the means 1 Device 8a, second special symbol display device 8b, effect display device 9),
When a specific display result (for example, a big hit symbol or a small hit symbol) is derived and displayed as a display result of variable display of identification information, a specific gaming state (for example, a big hit gaming state or a small hit gaming state) advantageous to the player is obtained. Game control means to control;
The display result of the variable display of the identification information derived and displayed by the variable display means is at least a control after the variable display of the identification information is completed (for example, the control for starting the variable display of the next identification information or the big hit game A fixed display means (for example, game control) for fixed display for a predetermined period (for example, normal display time or shortened display time; see FIG. 20A) until the start of the state or small hit game state). And the microcomputer 560 further includes steps S22, S1301 to S1308, and S3203 to S3204).
The confirmation display means shortens the predetermined period when the display result of the variable display of the identification information is the specific display result compared to when the display result is not the specific display result (for example, the game control microcomputer 560 A part for executing steps S1302 and S1305 (see FIG. 20A).

  With such a configuration, it is possible to quickly control to a specific gaming state.

It is the front view which looked at the pachinko game machine from the front. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating a hit ball launching mechanism. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of how to advance the game of a gaming machine. 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 a main board | substrate performs. It is a flowchart which shows a 4 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, a big hit type determination table, and a small hit type determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the content of an effect control command. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a shot ball detection process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of 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 buffer. 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 designation | designated command transmission process. It is a flowchart which shows a display result designation | designated 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 flow chart which shows processing for opening an accessory. It is a flowchart which shows a process during an accessory release. It is a flowchart which shows a post-release article. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a special symbol display control process. It is a flowchart which shows the presentation control main process which CPU for presentation control performs. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of a command reception buffer. 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 production control process processing. It is the flowchart which shows discharge alerting | reporting process, and a fire sound aspect table. It is a timing chart which shows each timing of an object release, a notification target period, a launch detection, and a launch sound in a launch notification process. It is a flowchart which shows an accessory release alerting | reporting process.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present 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.

  The member that forms the extra ball tray (lower tray) 4 is configured in a stick shape (bar shape), for example, at a predetermined position on the front side of the upper surface of the lower tray main body (for example, the central portion of the lower tray). Is attached to the stick controller 122 that can be tilted in a plurality of directions (front and rear, left and right). It should be noted that the stick controller 122 has a predetermined operation, for example, by performing a push-pull operation with a predetermined operation finger (for example, an index finger) while the player holds the operation rod of the stick controller 122 with an operation hand (for example, the left hand). A trigger button 121 (see FIG. 5) capable of performing an instruction operation is provided, and a trigger sensor 125 (see FIG. 5) for detecting a predetermined instruction operation by a push-pull operation or the like on the trigger button 121 is provided inside the operation rod of the stick controller 122. 5) is built-in. Further, a tilt direction sensor unit 123 (see FIG. 5) for detecting a tilting operation with respect to the operating rod is provided in the lower pan body inside the stick controller 122 and the like. Further, the stick controller 122 incorporates a vibrator motor 126 (see FIG. 5) for causing the stick controller 122 to vibrate.

  The member that forms the hitting ball supply tray (upper plate) 3 is subjected to a predetermined instruction operation, for example, by a player pressing a predetermined position on the upper surface of the upper plate body (for example, above the stick controller 122). A possible push button 120 is provided. The push button 120 only needs to be configured to be able to detect a predetermined instruction operation such as a pressing operation from a player mechanically, electrically, or electromagnetically. A push sensor 124 (see FIG. 5) that detects the player's operation action performed on the push button 120 may be provided inside the main body of the upper plate at the position where the push button 120 is installed. In the configuration example illustrated in FIG. 1, the push button 120 and the stick controller 122 are attached in the vertical position in the center portion of the upper plate and the lower plate. On the other hand, it is good also considering the attachment position of the push button 120 and the stick controller 122 as the position approached to either right or left in an upper plate and a lower plate, maintaining the vertical relationship. Alternatively, the attachment position of the push button 120 and the stick controller 122 may not be in the vertical relationship, but may be in the horizontal relationship, for example.

  An effect display device 9 composed of a liquid crystal display device (LCD) is provided near the center of the game area 7. On the display screen of the effect display device 9, there is an effect symbol display area for performing variable display of the effect symbols synchronized with the variable display of the special symbols (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”. The symbol display area includes “left”, “middle”, and “right” symbol display areas, but the position of the symbol display area does not have to be fixed on the display screen of the effect display device 9. Three areas of the 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. .

  Further, in the effect display device 9, symbols other than the symbol that will be the final stop symbol (for example, the middle symbol of the left and right middle symbols) have continued for a predetermined time, and the jackpot symbol (for example, the left middle right symbol is aligned with the same symbol) Stops, swings, scales, or deforms in a state that matches the symbol combination), or multiple symbols fluctuate synchronously in the same symbol, or the position of the display symbol is switched Thus, an effect performed in a state where the possibility of occurrence of a big hit (hereinafter, these states are referred to as reach states) before the final result is displayed 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. And when the display result of the symbol variably displayed on the effect display device 9 is not a big hit symbol, it becomes “out” and the variation display state ends. A player plays a game while enjoying how to generate a big hit.

  On the right side of the effect display device 9, a first special symbol display 8a and a second special symbol display 8b are provided as a special symbol display (variable display unit) that variably displays a special symbol as identification information. . In this embodiment, the first special symbol display 8a and the second special symbol display 8b are realized by a simple and small display (for example, 7 segment LED) capable of variably displaying numbers 0 to 9. . That is, the first special symbol indicator 8a and the second special symbol indicator 8b are configured to variably display numbers (or symbols) from 0 to 9. The small display is formed in, for example, a square shape. The first special symbol display 8a and the second special symbol display 8b may be configured to variably display a number (or a two-digit symbol) of, for example, 00 to 99.

  After the start condition which is the execution condition of the variable display is established (for example, the game ball has passed through the first start winning opening 13 or the second starting winning opening 14 (including winning)), Based on the establishment of a variable display start condition (for example, the state in which the number of reserved memories is not 0, the state in which the variable symbol special display is not executed, and the jackpot game is not executed). When the variable display time (fluctuation time) elapses, the display result (stop symbol) is derived and displayed. Note that the passing of a game ball means that the game ball has passed through a predetermined area such as a prize opening or a gate, and that includes a game ball entering (winning) a prize opening. It is. Deriving and displaying the display result is to finally stop and display a symbol (an example of identification information).

  Below the effect display device 9, there are provided a first start winning opening 13 through which a game ball can be won and a variable winning ball apparatus 15 having a second start winning opening 14. 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. The game ball that has won the second start winning 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 won in the second start winning port 14, which is advantageous for the player. In this embodiment, a case is shown in which a winning is possible only when the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is in an open state, but in a state where the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is in a closed state. Although it is difficult to win a prize, it may be possible to win (that is, it is difficult for a game ball to win). For example, the first start winning opening 13 may be provided above the position shown in FIG. 1 so that the second start winning opening 14 can be awarded even when the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is closed.

  Above the first special symbol display 8a and the second special symbol display 8b, the number of effective winning balls that have entered the first start winning opening 13, that is, the reserved memory number (the reserved memory is also referred to as a start memory or a start prize memory). .)) Is displayed on the first special symbol holding memory display 18a, and the number of valid winning balls, that is, the holding memory number (the holding memory is the starting memory or the starting winning memory). And a second special symbol storage memory display 18b composed of four displays for displaying. The first special symbol storage display 18a increases the number of indicators to be lit by 1 every time there is an effective start winning for the first start winning opening 13, and variable display on the first special symbol display 8a is started. Each time, the number of lighted indicators is reduced by one. In addition, 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 for the second start winning opening 14, and variable display on the second special symbol display 8b is performed. Each time it is started, the number of lighted indicators is reduced by one.

  The effect display device 9 performs variable display of the effect symbol as a symbol for decoration (for effect) during the variable display time of the special symbol by the first special symbol indicator 8a or the second special symbol indicator 8b. The variable display of the special symbol on the first special symbol display 8a or 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 big hit symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b, the combination of effect symbols that recall the big hit is stopped and displayed on the effect display device 9.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 1, a special variable winning ball apparatus 20 that forms a big winning opening is provided below the variable winning ball apparatus 15. The special variable winning ball apparatus 20 includes an opening / closing plate, and when a specific display result (big hit symbol) is derived and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b, and a variable winning ball apparatus (described later) In the specific game state (big hit game state) that occurs when a game ball wins in a specific area (V winning area) provided in 24, the opening and closing plate is controlled by the solenoid 21 to be in an open state, The big winning opening that becomes the winning area is opened. The game ball that has won the big winning opening is detected by the count switch 23.

  In this embodiment, hereinafter, the jackpot gaming state generated based on the derivation display of the jackpot symbol on the special symbol display is referred to as a first jackpot gaming state (or first jackpot gaming), and a variable winning ball There is a case where the big hit gaming state generated based on the V winning of the game ball in a specific area provided in the device (the accessory) is distinguished as the second big hit gaming state (or the second big hit game).

  In addition, a variable winning ball apparatus (a combination) 24 is provided at the lower right of the game area 7. The variable winning ball device (act) 24 is provided with an opening / closing plate, and when the opening display result (small hit symbol) is derived and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b, the solenoid 25 When the opening / closing plate is controlled to be in the open state, the variable winning ball device (combination) 24 is in the open state. All game balls that have entered the variable winning ball apparatus (object) 24 are detected by the accessory winning switch 28. Note that the prize winning switch 28 can be realized by an optical sensor, for example. A specific area (V prize area) is provided in the variable winning ball device (right) 24. Among the game balls that have entered the variable winning ball device (right) 24, Detected by the V winning switch 29. In addition, a game ball that has won a region other than the specific region is detected by the accessory discharge switch 30.

  On the left side of the effect display device 9, a normal symbol display 10 for variably displaying normal symbols is provided. In this embodiment, the normal symbol display 10 is realized by a simple and small display (for example, 7 segment LED) capable of variably displaying numbers 0 to 9. That is, the normal symbol display 10 is configured to variably display numbers (or symbols) from 0 to 9. Moreover, the small display is formed in, for example, a square shape. Note that the normal symbol display 10 may be configured to variably display a number (or a two-digit symbol) of, for example, 00 to 99. In addition, the normal symbol display 10 is not limited to a 7-segment LED or the like, for example, a display capable of lighting a predetermined symbol display (for example, a decoration lamp capable of alternately lighting and displaying “O” and “X”). It may be comprised.

  A gate 32 through which a game ball can pass is provided on the right side of the effect display device 9. 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. When the stop symbol on the normal symbol display 10 is a predetermined symbol (a winning symbol, for example, a symbol “7”), the variable winning ball apparatus 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. In this embodiment, in the short time state (game state in which the variable symbol display time is shortened) when the symbol variation time is shortened compared to the normal state, the opening time and the opening time of the variable winning ball device 15 are released. The number of times is increased (becomes a high base state).

  At the lower part of the game board 6, there is an out port 26 into which a hit ball that has not won a prize is taken. In addition, four speakers 27 that utter sound effects and sounds as predetermined sound outputs are provided on the upper left and right and lower left and right outside the game area 7. On the outer periphery of the game area 7, a frame LED 28b provided on the front frame is provided.

  In the gaming machine, a ball hitting device 550 that drives a driving motor in response to a player operating the hitting operation handle 5 and uses the rotational force of the driving motor to launch a gaming ball to the game area 7 (FIG. 2). Reference) is provided. A game ball launched from the ball striking device enters the game area 7 through a hit ball rail 551 (see FIG. 2) 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 effect symbol is started on the effect display device 9. Further, when the game ball enters the second start winning port 14 and is detected by the second start port switch 14a, the special symbol variable display can be started (for example, the special symbol variable display ends and starts). When the condition is satisfied), the variable display (variation) of the second special symbol is started on the second special symbol display 8b, and the variable display of the effect symbol is started on the effect display device 9. In other words, the variable display of the special symbol and the effect symbol corresponds to winning in the first start winning opening 13 or the second starting winning opening 14. If the special symbol variable display cannot be started, the number of reserved memories is increased by 1 on the condition that the number of reserved memories has not reached the upper limit.

  In this embodiment, when the winning time is a big hit, the game state is shifted to the reduced time state, and the game ball is easily started and won (that is, variable in the second special symbol display 8b and the effect display device 9). The display shifts to a high base state that is a gaming state controlled so that the display execution condition is easily established. In the case of 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. It becomes easier to win a start.

  Instead of extending the time for the variable winning ball apparatus 15 to be 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 becomes a winning symbol is increased. Depending on the situation, the high base state may be entered. When the stop symbol on the normal symbol display 10 becomes a predetermined symbol (winning symbol), the variable winning ball apparatus 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 are 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, which is disadvantageous for the player. It changes from a state to an advantageous state (a state where it is easy to start a prize). Note 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 won increases, the frequency that the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is in the open state is increased, and the start winning state is easily set (high base state).

  Moreover, in this embodiment, it shifts to the short time state (hereinafter also referred to as the special symbol short time state when distinguishing from the normal symbol short time state) in which the variation time (variable display period) of the special symbol or effect symbol is shortened. Since the variation time of the special symbol and the production symbol is shortened by this, the frequency of the variation of the special symbol and the production symbol is increased (in other words, the digestion of the reserved memory is accelerated), and the invalid start prize is obtained. It is possible to reduce the situation in which the problem occurs. Therefore, an effective start winning is likely to occur, and as a result, the possibility of a big hit game being 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). In addition, it is easier to win a start 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). You may make it move to a base state.

  In this embodiment, when the gaming state is controlled to the normal state (low base state), the player performs a launch operation aiming to the left of the gaming area, and the gaming state is changed to the short time state (high base state). When being controlled, the player performs a launch operation aiming at the right side of the game area.

  Specifically, when the game state is controlled to the normal state, the player performs a launch operation aiming at the left side of the game area, and the variable display is based on the start winning prize at the first start winning opening 13. When the big hit is executed and the big hit type is a short-time big hit (in this example, it becomes a short-time big hit at a rate of 50%), it is shifted to the short-time state after the big hit game ends. . In addition, the variable display is executed based on the start winning at the first start winning opening 13 and a small hit is made, and a specific area (V winning area) in the variable winning ball apparatus (function) 24 controlled to the open state. When the game ball wins V, if the small hit type is a short-time bonus (details will be described later) (in this example, the short-time bonus is 50%), the V winning After the jackpot game that occurs based on the fact that the game has been completed, the state is shifted to the time-saving state. When the state is shifted to the short-time state, the player switches to a game in which the shooting operation is aimed at the right side of the game area. In addition, when the game state is controlled to the short-time state, the player performs a launch operation aiming to the right of the game area, and triggers a variable display of special symbols a predetermined number of times (in this example, 100 times). Returning to the normal state, the player returns to the game in which the player operates to aim at the left side of the game area.

  FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the hitting ball launching mechanism. As shown in FIG. 2, the game ball launched from the hit ball launching device 550 is thrown into the hit ball rail 551 from the hit ball launching hole 553 through the hit ball launch rail 552, and then into the game area 7 through the hit ball rail 551. It is thrown. Further, in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2, a launch confirmation switch 37b for detecting a game ball launched from the hit ball launching device 550 is provided in the vicinity of the hit ball launching port 553.

  When the rotational force of the drive motor is not sufficient and the hitting force of the game ball launched from the hitting ball launcher 550 is weak, the launched game ball cannot reach the game area 7 and the hitting rail 551. May return to a foul ball. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 2, the hitting ball launching mechanism is provided with a foul ball recovery port 510 for recovering the foul ball returning to the hitting rail 551. Further, in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2, a foul ball detection switch 510 a for detecting a foul ball is provided in the foul ball collection port 510.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, the out ball detection switch 26a is provided in the out port 26, and the foul ball detection switch 510a is also provided in the foul ball collection port 510 as shown in FIG. However, the out sphere detection switch 26a and the foul sphere detection switch 510a may not be provided, or only either the out sphere detection switch 26a or the foul sphere detection switch 510a may be provided. Also good.

  FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of how the game proceeds in the gaming machine of this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 3, when a start prize is generated, a lottery is executed by game control means for controlling the progress of the game. The result of the lottery is “big hit”, “small hit” or “out of game”. Then, the special symbol (the first special symbol or the second special symbol) and the effect symbol change (variable display) are started. When the change of the special symbol and the effect symbol is finished, when the big hit is determined (when the big hit symbol is derived and displayed), the gaming state is shifted to the big hit gaming state (first big hit gaming state). In the first jackpot game state, the winning prize opening is controlled to be opened or closed 4 or 16 times (the permissible opening time for one round is 29 seconds) according to the result of the lottery (type of jackpot).

  When the small hit is determined (when the small hit symbol is derived and displayed), the game control means controls the variable winning ball apparatus (the accessory) 24 to be open for a predetermined period (for example, 5 seconds). Start a small hit game. The number of times of opening (number of times of opening) is one. In the small hit gaming state, when a game ball wins a variable winning ball device (a combination) 24 and a game ball wins a V in a specific area (V winning area), a V winning is generated. When a V prize is generated, the gaming state is shifted to a big hit gaming state (second big hit gaming state). In the second big hit game state, the big prize opening is controlled to be opened or closed four times or sixteen times (the open allowance time for one round is 29 seconds) according to the lottery result (small hit type). It should be noted that in the small hit gaming state, if no V winning is generated, the second big hit gaming state is not entered.

  FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the circuit configuration of the main board (game control board) 31. FIG. 4 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 supply created on the power supply board. 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 corresponding to the game state, that is, the control state of the game control means (such as a special symbol process flag or a short time flag) and data indicating the number of unpaid prize 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 an ID number of the game control microcomputer 560 (an ID number assigned to each product of the game control microcomputer 560) stored in a predetermined storage area such as the ROM 54. The numerical data obtained in this way is set as the initial value of the numerical data that the random number circuit 503 updates. By performing such processing, the randomness of the random number generated by the random number circuit 503 can be further improved.

  In addition, the game control microcomputer receives the detection signals from the gate switch 32a, the first start port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a, the count switch 23, the accessory winning switch 28, the V winning switch 29, and the accessory discharging switch 30. An input driver circuit 58 applied to 560 is also mounted on the main board 31. Further, a solenoid 16 for opening and closing the variable winning ball apparatus 15, a solenoid 21 for opening and closing a special variable winning ball apparatus 20 for forming a large winning opening, and a solenoid 25 for opening and closing the variable winning ball apparatus (a role) 24 are used for game control. An output circuit 59 that is driven in accordance with a command from the microcomputer 560 is also mounted on the main board 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 64 that outputs information output signals such as jackpot information indicating the occurrence of a jackpot gaming state to an external device such as a hall computer via the terminal board 160 is also mounted on the main board 31.

  The payout control board 37 is connected to the launch confirmation switch 37b via the payout relay board 37a. Therefore, when a game ball launched from the hitting ball launcher 550 is detected by the launch confirmation switch 37 b, the detection signal is input to the main board 31 via the payout relay board 37 a and the payout control board 37. Further, the payout relay board 37a is connected to the touch sensor 37d and the single firing switch 37e via the handle relay board 37c. Therefore, the touch sensor 37d detects that the player has operated the hitting ball operating handle 5, and the detection signal is input to the main board 31 via the handle relay board 37c, the payout relay board 37a, and the payout control board 37. Further, when the player operates the single-shot switch 37e, the operation signal is input to the main board 31 through the handle relay board 37c, the payout relay board 37a, and the payout control board 37.

  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. An effect control command is received, and display control of the effect display device 9 for variably displaying effect symbols is performed.

  Further, the effect control means mounted on the effect control board 80 controls the display of the frame LED 28b provided on the frame side and the rail tip LED 28a provided at the tip of the hit ball rail 551 via the lamp driver board 35. And the sound output from the speaker 27 is controlled via the sound output board 70.

  The effect control means is also connected to a trigger sensor 125, a tilt direction sensor unit 123 provided in the stick controller 122, a vibrator motor 126, and a push sensor 124 provided in the push button 120, as will be described later. However, the illustration is omitted in FIG.

  FIG. 5 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. 5, 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.

  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. 5 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).

  In addition, the effect control CPU 101 inputs an operation detection signal as an information signal indicating that the player's operation action on the trigger button 121 of the stick controller 122 has been detected from the trigger sensor 125 via the input port 106. Further, the effect control CPU 101 inputs an operation detection signal as an information signal indicating that a player's operation action on the push button 120 has been detected from the push sensor 124 via the input port 106. In addition, the production control CPU 101 inputs an operation detection signal as an information signal indicating that the player's operation action with respect to the operation rod of the stick controller 122 has been detected from the tilt direction sensor unit 123 via the input port 106. . Further, the effect control CPU 101 outputs a drive signal to the vibrator motor 126 via the output port 105 to cause the stick controller 122 to vibrate.

  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 such as the frame LED 28b based on a signal for driving the LED.

  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).

  Next, the operation of the gaming machine will be described. FIG. 6 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). 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 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 (clear signal) of a clear switch (for example, mounted on the power supply board) input via the input port (step S6). When the ON 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 parts that should not be initialized include, for example, data indicating the gaming state before the power supply is stopped (special symbol process flag, time reduction flag, etc.), the area where the output state of the output port is saved (output port buffer), This is a portion where data indicating the number of payout prize balls is set.

  Further, the CPU 56 transmits a power failure recovery designation command as an initialization command at the time of power supply recovery (step S43). In addition, the CPU 56 transmits a display result designation command designating a display result (non-temporal bonus, hourly bonus or loss) stored in the backup RAM to the effect control board 80 (step S44). Then, the process proceeds to step S14.

  In this embodiment, the value of a variable time timer (to be described later) is also stored in the backup RAM area. Therefore, when the power failure is restored, after the display result designation command is transmitted in step S44, measurement of the saved variation time timer value is resumed, and the variation display of the special symbol is resumed and saved. When the value of the changed time timer has timed out, a symbol determination designation command to be described later is further transmitted. In this embodiment, a special symbol process flag value, which will be described later, is also stored in the backup RAM area. Therefore, when the power failure is recovered, the special symbol process is resumed from the process corresponding to the value of the stored special symbol process flag.

  Note that the display result designation command is not necessarily transmitted when the power failure is restored, but the CPU 56 may first confirm whether or not the value of the variable time timer stored in the backup RAM area is zero. . If the value of the variation time timer is not 0, it is determined that a power failure occurs during the variation, and a display result designation command is transmitted. It may be determined that the state has not been reached, and the display result designation command may not be transmitted.

  Further, the CPU 56 may first check whether or not the value of the special symbol process flag stored in the backup RAM area is 3. If the value of the special symbol process flag is 3, it is determined that the power failure occurs during the fluctuation, and a display result designation command is transmitted. If the special symbol process flag is not 3, the fluctuation occurs at the time of the power failure. The display result designation command may not be transmitted because it is determined that it is not in the middle.

  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 random number for normal symbol determination) to 0, but an arbitrary value or a predetermined value It may be initialized to. In addition, 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 random number for normal symbol determination) may be left as it is. Further, the start 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 (step S12).

  By the processing in steps S11 and S12, for example, a normal symbol per-determining random number counter, a special symbol buffer, a total prize ball number storage buffer, a special symbol process flag, and other flags for selectively performing processing according to the control state are initialized. Value is set.

  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 sub-board (step S13). For example, when the effect control microcomputer 100 receives the initialization designation command, the effect display device 9 performs screen display for notifying that the control of the gaming machine has been performed, that is, initialization notification.

  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.

  In step S15, the CPU 56 sets a CTC register built in the game control microcomputer 560 so that a timer interrupt is periodically generated every predetermined time (for example, 4 ms). That is, a value corresponding to, for example, 4 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 4 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 the stop symbol of the special symbol when it is not a big hit, or a random number for determining whether to reach when it is not a big hit, The 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 the initial value of the count value of the counter for generating a random number for determining whether or not to win for a normal symbol (normal random number generation counter for normal symbol determination). It is a random number to determine. 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 an effect display device, a variable winning ball device, a ball payout device, etc. provided in the game machine itself. In the process of transmitting a command signal to be controlled by another microcomputer, or a game machine control process), the count value of the random number for determination per normal symbol is one round (the random number for determination per normal symbol is taken). When the value is incremented by the number of values between the minimum value and the maximum value of the possible values), an initial value is set in the counter.

  In this embodiment, the reach effect is executed using effect symbols that are variably displayed on the effect display device 9. Further, when the display result of the special symbol is a jackpot symbol, the reach effect is always executed. When the display result of the special symbol is not a jackpot symbol, the game control microcomputer 560 determines whether to execute the reach effect by performing a lottery to determine the variation pattern type and variation pattern using random numbers. To do. However, it is the production control microcomputer 100 that actually executes the reach production control.

When the timer interrupt occurs, the CPU 56 executes the timer interrupt process of steps S20 to S35 shown in FIG. In the timer interrupt process, first, a power-off detection process (power-off 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 a power supply monitoring circuit mounted on the power supply 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 of the gate switch 32a, the first start port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a, the count switch 23, the accessory winning switch 28, the V winning switch 29, and the accessory discharging switch 30 via the input driver circuit 58. Signals are input and their state is determined (switching process: step S21).
Next, the CPU 56 detects the game ball fired from the hitting ball launcher 550 by the launch confirmation switch 37b, and that the detection signal is inputted to the main board 31 via the payout relay board 37a and the payout control board 37. A fired ball detection process for performing a process of transmitting to the effect control board 80 is executed (step S21a). As a result, the effect control board 80 can detect that a game ball has been fired from the hitting ball launcher 550 (that there has been a launch operation) and the launch timing of the game ball.

  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). For the first special symbol display 8a, the second special symbol display 8b, and the normal symbol display 10, a drive signal is output to each display according to the contents of the output buffer set in steps S33 and S34. Execute control.

  Also, a process of updating the count value of each counter for generating each random number for determination such as a random number for determination per ordinary 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 S28). In the normal symbol process, the CPU 56 executes the 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 S29).

  Further, the CPU 56 performs information output processing for outputting data such as jackpot information and start information supplied to the hall management computer, for example (step S30).

  Further, the CPU 56 executes 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 V winning switch 29 (step S31). . Specifically, it is mounted on the payout control board 37 in response to winning detection based on any of the first starting port switch 13a, the second starting port switch 14a, the count switch 23, or the V winning switch 29 being turned on. A payout control command (award ball number signal) indicating the number of prize balls is output to the payout control microcomputer. 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 S32: output processing).

  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 S33).

  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 S34). 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 S35), and the process is terminated.
With the above control, in this embodiment, the game control process is started every 4 ms. The game control process corresponds to the processes of steps S21 to S34 (excluding step S30) 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, 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, 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. After reaching the reach state, a reach effect is executed, and a combination of predetermined effect symbols that do not eventually become a jackpot symbol 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. Finally, the effect symbols are all stopped and displayed in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” symbol display areas of the effect display device 9.

  FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing a variation pattern of the effect symbol prepared in advance. As shown in FIG. 8, in this embodiment, non-reach PA1-1 to non-reach are used as the variation patterns 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. In addition, as shown in FIG. 8, about the fluctuation pattern of non-reach PA1-4 which is used when not reaching and has a pseudo-continuous effect, re-change is performed once. 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. .

  Further, as shown in FIG. 8, in this embodiment, normal PA2-3 to normal PA2-4, normal PB2-3 to normal P2-3 as a variation pattern corresponding to the case where the variable symbol display result of the special symbol is a big hit symbol. Variation patterns of PB2-4, super PA3-3 to super PA3-4, super PB3-3 to super PB3-4 are prepared. As shown in FIG. 8, when the normal PB2-3 is used among the variation patterns accompanied by the pseudo-continuous effects, re-variation is performed once. Moreover, when using normal PB2-4 among the fluctuation patterns accompanied by pseudo-continuous effects, re-change is performed twice. Furthermore, when using the super PA3-3 to the super PA3-4 among the fluctuation patterns accompanied by the pseudo-continuous effects, the re-variation is performed three times.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 8, in this embodiment, special PG1-1 to special PG1-3, special PG2-1 to special PG1-1 are used as the variation patterns corresponding to the case where the variable symbol display result of the special symbol is a small hit symbol. A special PG2-2 variation pattern is prepared.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 8, 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 number of reserved memories, the variation time may be varied. For example, even when the same type of super reach is involved, the variation time may be shortened as the number of reserved memories increases.

FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing each random number. Each random number is used as follows.
(1-1) Random 1-1 (MR1-1): Determines the type of jackpot (4R big hit, 4R short-time big hit, 16R short-time big hit, which will be described later) (for big hit type determination)
(1-2) Random 1-2 (MR1-2): Determines the type of small hits (4R big hit at V winning, VR short hit at V winning, 16R short hit at V winning, which will be described later) (small hit type determination) for)
(2) Random 2 (MR2): The type (type) of the variation pattern is determined (for variation pattern type determination)
(3) Random 3 (MR3): A variation pattern (variation time) is determined (for variation pattern determination)
(4) Random 4 (MR4): Determines whether or not to generate a hit based on a normal symbol (for normal symbol hit determination)
(5) Random 5 (MR5): Determine the initial value of random 4 (for determining the initial value of random 4)
In this embodiment, the variation pattern is first determined using the variation pattern type determination random number (random 2), and then the variation pattern determined using the variation pattern determination random number (random 3). 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. 7, the game control microcomputer 560 uses a counter for generating (1) a big hit type determination random number and (4) a normal symbol determination random number. Count up (add 1). That is, they are determination random numbers, and other random numbers are display random numbers (random 2, random 3) or initial value random numbers (random 5). 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. Note that a software random number instead of a hardware random number may be used as the jackpot determination random number.

  FIG. 10A is an explanatory diagram showing a jackpot determination table. The jackpot determination table is a table for determining whether or not to be the first jackpot, and is a collection of data stored in the ROM 54, in which a jackpot determination value to be compared with the random R is set. It is a table. That is, the numerical value described in FIG. 10A is a jackpot determination value.

  FIG. 10B is an explanatory diagram showing a first small hit determination table. The first small hit determination table is a table for determining whether or not the variable display result for the first special symbol is a small hit, and is a collection of data stored in the ROM 54, and is a random R Is a table in which a jackpot determination value to be compared is set. That is, the numerical value described in FIG. 10B is the small hit determination value.

  FIG. 10C is an explanatory diagram showing a second small hit determination table. The second small hit determination table is a table for determining whether or not the variable display result for the second special symbol is a small hit, and is a collection of data stored in the ROM 54, and is a random R Is a table in which a jackpot determination value to be compared is set. That is, the numerical value described in FIG. 10C is the small hit determination value.

  The CPU 56 extracts the count value of the random number circuit 503 at a predetermined time and sets the extracted value as the value of the big hit determination random number (random R). The big hit determination random number is shown in FIG. If it matches any of the big hit determination values, the special symbol is decided to be a big hit (4R big hit, 4R short juncture, 16R short big hit, which will be described later). Further, when the big hit determination random number value matches one of the small hit determination values shown in FIGS. 10B and 10C, it is determined to make a small hit for the special symbol. Note that the “probability” shown in FIG. 9A indicates the probability (ratio) of being a big hit, and the “probability” shown in FIGS. 10B and 10C indicates the probability (ratio) of being a small hit. . Further, deciding whether or not to win a jackpot means deciding whether or not to shift to the jackpot gaming state, but deciding whether or not to make the stop symbol in the special symbol display 8 a jackpot symbol. It is also a thing. In addition, determining whether or not to make a small hit means that the small hit gaming state (in this example, the variable winning ball device (object) 24 is controlled to be in an open state, and the game ball is placed in a specific area (V winning area). Is determined whether or not to shift to a V winning state), it is determined whether or not the stop symbol in the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b is a small hit symbol. It also means that.

  In the example shown in FIG. 10C, the variable display result of the second special symbol that is performed based on winning in the second start winning opening 14 is configured to be a small hit with a probability of 1/2. However, for example, it may be configured to be almost a small hit like a probability of 99/100. By configuring in this way, the variable display of the second special symbol is performed, that is, the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is controlled to be in the open state so that the second start winning opening 14 can be won (time reduction state) ) Can be set to a more advantageous gaming state compared to the normal state.

  Further, in this embodiment, when the variable display result of the first special symbol or the second special symbol is a small hit, the variable winning ball device (act) 24 is controlled to the open state and the variable controlled to the open state. It is configured to be controlled to the big hit gaming state (second big hit gaming state) based on the V winning in the specific area (V winning area) of the winning ball device (object) 24. The configuration is not limited. For example, the variable display result may be a small hit only for the second special symbol. That is, the possibility of winning a small hit may be generated only when winning at the second start winning opening 14. Further, the variable display result may not be a small hit in either the first special symbol or the second special symbol. That is, there may be a configuration in which it is possible to enjoy whether or not the first big hit occurs without the second big hit.

  FIG. 10D is an explanatory diagram showing a jackpot type determination table stored in the ROM 54. The jackpot type determination table is a random number (random 1-1) for determining the jackpot type when it is determined that the variable symbol display result of the special symbol is a jackpot symbol (that is, when the first jackpot is determined). ), The table is referred to to determine the type of the first big hit as one of “4R big hit”, “4R short hit big hit”, and “16R short hit big hit”. In this embodiment, there are “4R big hit”, “4R short hit big hit” and “16R short hit big hit” as the big hit types. Is also referred to as “time and big hit”. As shown in FIG. 10 (D), when it is determined that the variable symbol display result of the special symbol is a big hit symbol, the rate is 60% for the “non-temporal big hit” (ie 4R big hit) at a rate of 40%. In this case, it is determined to be “short time hit per hour” (that is, short hit per 4R or short hit per 16R).

  The “4R jackpot” is a jackpot that is controlled to a four-round jackpot gaming state and the game state is not shifted to the short-time state after the jackpot gaming state ends.

  The “4R short-time big hit” and “16R short-time big hit” are big hits that are controlled to a 4-round or 16-rundo big hit gaming state and the gaming state is shifted to the short-time state after the big hit gaming state ends (see step S167). . Then, after shifting to the time reduction state, when the variable display is finished a predetermined number of times (100 times in this embodiment), the time reduction state is ended (see steps S168 and S137 to S140). Even if the variable display is not finished a predetermined number of times, the time saving state is also finished when the next big hit occurs (see step S132).

  The jackpot type determination table is a numerical value to be compared with the value of random 1-1, corresponding to each of 4R big hit, 4R short hit big hit, and 16R short hit big hit (big hit type decision value) Is set. When the value of random 1-1 matches any of the jackpot type determination values, the CPU 56 determines the jackpot type as a type corresponding to the matched jackpot type determination value.

  FIG. 10E is an explanatory diagram showing a small hit type determination table stored in the ROM 54. The small hitting type determination table is determined when it is determined that the variable symbol display result of the special symbol is changed to the small hitting symbol (that is, the variable winning ball apparatus (object) 24 is controlled to be in the open state. If the V winning is made in the special area (V winning area) of the variable winning ball apparatus (function) 24 controlled to be the second big hit, the random number for determining the big hit type (random 1-2) is used. This is a table that is referred to in order to determine the type of the small hit as one of “4R big hit at V winning”, “short hit at 4R at V winning”, and “short hit at 16R at V winning”. In this embodiment, the types of small hits are “V winning 4R big hit”, “V winning 4R short big hit” and “V winning 16R short big hit”, and “V winning 4R big hit” is “non-hour” “Short / Critical Bonus”, “V prize winning at 4R / Corporate Bonus” and “V winning at 16R / Corner / Big Bonus” are also referred to as “time / small bonus”. As shown in FIG. 10 (E), when it is determined that the variable symbol display result of the special symbol is to be a small hit symbol, it is changed to “non-short time short bonus” (that is, 4R big hit at the time of V winning) at a rate of 40%. , 60% is determined to be “short time bonus per hour” (that is, short prize per 4R when winning V or 16R per hour when winning V).

  “V prize winning 4R big hit” means that the variable winning ball apparatus (function) 24 is controlled to be in an open state by a small hit, and a special area (V When V is won in the (winning area), the game is controlled to the four-round big hit gaming state as the second big hit game, and after the big hit gaming state is finished, the game state is a small hit to change to the normal state without shifting to the short-time state.

  “V prize winning 4R short junior hit” and “V winning 16R junior big hit” means that the variable winning ball device (function) 24 is controlled to the open state by the small hit, and the variable winning ball device is controlled to the open state. (Role) When V is won in 24 special areas (V winning area), it is controlled as a big hit game state of 4 rounds or 16 rundos as a second big hit game, and after the big hit game state is ended, This is a small hit to be transferred (see step S167). Then, after shifting to the time reduction state, when the variable display is finished a predetermined number of times (100 times in this embodiment), the time reduction state is ended (see steps S168 and S137 to S140). Even if the variable display is not finished a predetermined number of times, the time saving state is also finished when the next big hit occurs (see step S132).

  The small hit type determination table is a numerical value to be compared with a random 1-2 value, and each of “V winning 4R big hit”, “V winning 4R short big hit” and “V winning 16R short big hit” respectively. The determination value corresponding to (small hit type determination value) is set. When the value of random 1-2 matches any of the small hit type determination values, the CPU 56 determines the small hit type as a type corresponding to the matched small hit type determination value.

  In this embodiment, when the variable symbol display result of the special symbol is a small hit symbol, the variable winning ball device (accessory) 24 is controlled to be in an open state for a predetermined period. If the game ball does not win V in the special area (V winning area) of the variable winning ball apparatus (function) 24 inside, the second big hit does not occur. Therefore, even if the variable symbol display result of the special symbol is a small hit symbol and the small hit type is determined to be “V prize winning 16R hour short bonus”, the special area (V winning area) of the variable winning ball device (object) 24 is determined. In the case where the game ball does not win the V, the game is not controlled to the big hit game state and is not controlled to the short time state.

  In this embodiment, when the special symbol variable display result is determined to be a small hit using the small hit determination table shown in FIGS. 10B and 10C, the small hit is determined (step S66 described later). The hit type is determined (step S68 described later). However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, based on the fact that the variable symbol display result of the special symbol is determined to be a small hit (step S66 described later), When the variable winning ball apparatus (function) 24 is controlled to be in an open state, and the game ball wins V in the special area (V winning area) of the variable winning ball apparatus (function) 24, the big hit type of the second big hit is determined. You may comprise so that it may determine by lottery etc.

  In this embodiment, the same big hit type determination table and small hit type determination table are used regardless of whether the first special symbol or the second special symbol is variable. For example, different big hit type determination tables and small hit type determination tables may be used in the case of variable display of the first special symbol and in the case of variable display of the second special symbol. For example, with regard to the big hit type determination table and the small hit type determination table used when the second special symbol is variably displayed, the big hit type or table that is advantageous compared to that used when the first special symbol is variable displayed You may make it the ratio which becomes a small hit high (for example, the ratio which becomes "short hit at 16R at the time of 16R" or "short hit at 16R at the time of V prize" is high).

  FIG. 11 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. 11, the command 80XX (H) is an effect control command (variation pattern command) that specifies a variation pattern of the effect symbol that is variably displayed on the effect display device 9 in response to variable display of the special symbol. (Corresponding to the variation pattern XX, respectively). That is, when a unique number is assigned to each of the usable variation patterns shown in FIG. 8, 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, when receiving the command 80XX (H), the effect control microcomputer 100 controls the effect display device 9 to start variable display of effect symbols.

  Commands 8C01 (H) to 8C07 (H) are effect control commands indicating whether or not to make a big hit or a small hit, and a big hit type or a small hit type. The effect control microcomputer 100 determines the display result of the effect symbols in response to the reception of the commands 8C01 (H) to 8C07 (H), so the commands 8C01 (H) to 8C07 (H) are referred to as display result designation commands.

  Command 8F00 (H) is an effect control command (symbol confirmation designation command) indicating that the variable display (variation) is terminated and the display result (stop symbol) is derived and displayed.

  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 command A000 (H) is an effect control command for displaying the fanfare screen, that is, designating the start of the big hit game (big hit start designation command: fanfare designation command).

  The command A1XX (H) is an effect control command (special command during opening of a special winning opening) indicating a display of the number of times (round) indicated by XX while the special winning opening is open. Since the value specifying the round is set in the EXT data for each round, and the command for opening a special prize opening is transmitted, a different command for opening a special prize opening is transmitted for each round. For example, when executing the first round during the big hit game, a special winning opening opening designation command (A101 (H)) for specifying round 1 is transmitted, and when executing the tenth round during the big hit game. Is a command for opening a special prize opening (A10A (H)) for designating round 10. 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. In addition, since the value specifying the round is set in the EXT data for each round and the designation command after opening the special winning opening is transmitted, a different designation command after opening the special winning opening is transmitted for each round. For example, when ending the first round in the big hit game, a designation command (A201 (H)) after the big prize opening opening for designating round 1 is transmitted, and when the tenth round in the big hit game is ended. Is sent after a special winning opening opening command (A30A (H)) for designating round 10.

  Command A300 (H) is an effect control command for displaying the jackpot end screen, that is, the end of the jackpot game (a jackpot end specifying command: an ending 1 specifying command).

  Command B000 (H) is an effect control command (normal state background designation command) for designating background display when the gaming state is the normal state. Command B001 (H) is an effect control command (time-short state background designation command) for designating a background display when the gaming state is the time-short state.

  Command C000 (H) is an effect control command (first reserved memory number addition designation command) for designating that the first reserved memory number for the first special symbol has increased by one. Command C001 (H) is an effect control command (second reserved memory number addition designation command) for designating that the second reserved memory number for the second special symbol has increased by one. Command C100 (H) is an effect control command (first reserved memory number subtraction designation command) that specifies that the first reserved memory number for the first special symbol has decreased by one. Command C101 (H) is an effect control command (second reserved memory number subtraction designation command) that specifies that the second reserved memory number for the second special symbol has decreased by one. In this embodiment, as the hold memory information, an effect control command (a first hold memory number addition designation command, a second hold memory number addition designation command, a first hold memory, which indicates that the hold memory number has increased or decreased). The number subtraction designation command, the second reserved memory number subtraction designation command) is transmitted. However, the form of the reserved storage information is not limited to that shown in this embodiment, for example, the value of the number of reserved memories. You may make it transmit the reserve memory number designation | designated command which designates itself.

  The command D000 (H) is an effect control command (V winning switch detection designation command) that designates that the V winning switch 29 has detected a winning of a game ball.

  The command D100 (H) is an effect control command (a bonus release start designation command) for designating that the variable winning ball apparatus (a bonus item) 24 is controlled to be in an open state (that is, a bonus release is started). . The command D200 (H) is an effect control command (community opening end designation command) that designates that the variable winning ball device (combination) 24 is controlled to be closed (that is, the completion of the opening of the accessory). .

  The command E100 (H) is an effect control command (designated to detect a shot ball) that designates that a game ball launched from the ball hitting device 550 has been detected by the launch confirmation switch 37b (that is, the launch of the game ball has been detected). 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, various production controls are executed. For example, the production control microcomputer 100 changes the display state of the production display device 9 or changes the display state of the lamp according to the contents shown in FIG. Or output data. Alternatively, the effect control microcomputer 100 uses the received effect control command to specify a payable period during which a game ball can be awarded to the open variable winning ball device (right) 24. The effect control microcomputer 100 executes the effect of generating a sound effect when the launch of a game ball is detected during the specified winning possible period. A specific control example by the production control microcomputer 100 will be described later.

  For example, the game control microcomputer 560 produces a variation pattern command for designating a variation pattern of a production symbol and a display result designation command each time the special symbol display 8 starts a variable display of the special symbol when there is a start prize. This is transmitted to the 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.

  FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an example of a shot ball detection process (step S21a) executed by the game control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) mounted on the main board 31. As described above, in the shot ball detection process, the game ball launched from the hit ball launching device 550 is detected by the launch confirmation switch 37b, and the detection signal is sent to the main board 31 via the payout relay board 37a and the payout control board 37. A process of transmitting the input to the effect control board 80 is performed. Specifically, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not a detection signal indicating that the firing confirmation switch 37b is in the on state is input to the main board 31 (step S501). When a detection signal indicating that the firing confirmation switch 37b is in the on state is input to the main board 31 (step S501: Y), the CPU 56 transmits a shot ball detection designation command to the effect control board 80 (step S502). . On the other hand, when the detection signal indicating that the firing confirmation switch 37b is in the on state is not input to the main board 31 (step S501: N), the CPU 56 skips the process of step S502.

  The effect control board 80 recognizes that the hitting ball launching device 550 has launched the game ball based on the shot ball detection designation command transmitted from the CPU 56, but the detection signal of the launch confirmation switch 37b is directly input. It may be recognized based on the detection signal. Moreover, although the case where the presentation control board 80 recognizes whether or not the game ball is fired has been described, the present invention is not limited to this, and the launch control board provided with the control unit of the ball hitting device 550, the payout control. It may be recognized mainly by the substrate 37 or the main substrate 31. Further, the effect control board 80 may recognize that there has been a firing operation based on a firing operation designation command transmitted from the CPU 56.

  FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of the special symbol process (step S26) 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, processing for controlling the first special symbol indicator 8a, the second special symbol indicator 8b, and the special winning opening is executed. In the special symbol process, the CPU 56 confirms that the first start port switch 13a for detecting that the game ball has won the first start winning port 13 is turned on or that the game ball has won the second start winning port 14. If the second start port switch 14a for detection is turned on, that is, if a start winning to the first start winning port 13 or the second start winning port 14 has occurred, a start port switch passing process is executed (step S1). S311, S312).

  When the start port switch passing process in step S312 is executed, the CPU 56 performs any one of steps S300 to S310 according to the internal state (specifically, the value of the special symbol process flag).

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 special symbols can be started, the game control microcomputer 560 checks the number of stored numerical data (the number of reserved memories) stored in the reserved memory buffer. The stored number of numerical data stored in the hold storage buffer can be confirmed by the count value of the hold storage number counter. If the count value of the reserved memory number counter is not 0, it is determined whether or not the display result of the variable symbol special display is a big hit or a small hit. A big hit flag is set for a big hit, and a small hit flag is set for a small hit. 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 is reset when the big hit game ends, and the small hit flag is reset when 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)) is defined as the variation display variation time of the special symbol Decide to do. Further, control is performed to transmit a variation pattern command corresponding to the determined variation pattern to the effect control microcomputer 100, and a variation time timer for measuring the variation time of the special symbol 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 designation command transmission process (step S302): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 2. Control for transmitting a display result designation 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 design control microcomputer 100 determines the symbol. Control to transmit the specified command is performed, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (4 in this example) corresponding to step S304.

  Special symbol stop process (step S304): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 4. When the big hit flag is set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (5 in this example) corresponding to step S305. If the small hit flag is set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (8 in this example) corresponding to step S308. When the big hit flag and the small hit flag are not set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S300 (in this example, 0). In this embodiment, as will be described later, a special symbol display control for stopping and displaying a special symbol stop symbol in the special symbol display control process based on the fact that the value of the special symbol process flag is 4. The data is set in the output buffer for setting the special symbol display control data (see FIG. 28), and the stop symbol of the special symbol is actually stopped and displayed according to the set contents of the output buffer in the display control processing in step S22.

  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. In addition, control is performed to transmit the special winning opening open designation command to the production control microcomputer 100, the execution time of the special winning opening open processing is set by the timer, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is set in step S306. To a value corresponding to (6 in this example). Note that the pre-opening process for the big prize 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. In addition, since the value specifying the round is set in the EXT data for each round and the command for opening a special prize opening is specified, a different command for opening a special prize opening is transmitted for each round. For example, when executing the first round during the big hit game, a special winning opening opening designation command (A101 (H)) for specifying round 1 is transmitted, and when executing the tenth round during the big hit game. Is a command for opening a special prize opening (A10A (H)) for designating round 10.

  Large winning opening opening process (step S306): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 6. In the special prize opening opening process, a process for confirming the establishment of the closing condition of the special prize opening is 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. In addition, control is performed to transmit the designation command after the big hit release to the microcomputer 100 for effect control, and when all rounds are finished, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is set to a value corresponding to step S307 (this In the example, update to 7).

  Big hit end process (step S307): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 7. Control for causing the production control microcomputer 100 to perform display control for notifying the player that the big hit gaming state has ended is performed. In addition, a process for setting a flag indicating a gaming state (for example, 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.

  Pre-opening process of accessory (step S308): This is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 8. In the pre-game release processing, the game control microcomputer 560 drives the solenoid 25 to control the variable winning ball apparatus (combined product) 24 to the open state. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (9 in this example) according to step S309.

  Process during opening of bonuses (step S309): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 9. In the process of releasing an accessory, if a game ball wins a V in a specific area (V winning area) in the variable winning ball apparatus (object) 24, the driving of the solenoid 25 is stopped and the variable winning ball apparatus (object) 24 is controlled to be closed. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (5 in this example) according to step S305. On the other hand, even when the game ball has not reached V in the specific area (V winning area) and the opening time has elapsed, the drive of the solenoid 25 is stopped and the variable winning ball apparatus (object) 24 is controlled to be closed. . Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (10 in this example) according to step S310.

  Post-opening process of bonus item (step S310): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 10. In the post-release processing, if the game ball wins V in a specific area (V winning area) in the variable winning ball device (right) 24, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is set to a value according to step S305 ( In this example, it is updated to 5). On the other hand, when all the game balls won in the variable prize ball device (function) 24 are discharged without the game balls winning V in the specific area (V prize area) (detected by the prize winning switch 28) When all the game balls are detected by the accessory discharge switch 30), the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S300 (in this example, 0).

  FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the start port switch passing process in step S312. In the start port switch passing process, the CPU 56 first checks whether or not the first start port switch 13a is in an ON state (step S211). If the first start port switch 13a is not on, the process proceeds to step S217. If the first start port switch 13a is on, the CPU 56 determines whether or not the first reserved memory number has reached the upper limit (specifically, the first reserved memory for counting the first reserved memory number). It is confirmed whether or not the value of the number counter is 4 (step S212). If the first reserved storage number has reached the upper limit value, the process proceeds to step S217.

  If the first reserved memory number has not reached the upper limit value, the CPU 56 increases the value of the first reserved memory number counter by 1 (step S213), and the value of the total reserved memory number counter for counting the total reserved memory number Is increased by 1 (step S214). 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 first reserved storage buffer (see FIG. 15) (step S215). . In the process of step S215, a random R (big hit determination random number) that is a hardware random number, a big hit type determination random number (random 1-1) that is a software random number, a small hit type determination random number (random 1-2) ), Variation pattern type determination random number (random 2) and variation pattern determination random number (random 3) are extracted and stored in the storage area. Note that the variation pattern type determination random number (random 2) and the variation pattern determination random number (random 3) are not extracted and stored in advance in the storage area in the start port switch passing process (at the time of start winning). You may make it extract at the time of the change start of 1 special symbol. For example, the game control microcomputer 560 directly extracts a value from a variation pattern type determination random number counter for generating a variation pattern type determination random number (random 2) in a variation pattern setting process to be described later, A value may be directly extracted from a variation pattern determination random number counter for generating a determination random number (random 3).

  FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of an area (hold buffer) for storing random numbers and the like corresponding to the hold memory. As shown in FIG. 15, a storage area corresponding to the upper limit value (4 in this example) of the first reserved storage number 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. In this embodiment, the first reserved storage buffer and the second reserved storage buffer include a random R that is a hardware random number (random hit determination random number) and a big hit type determination random number that is a software random number (random 1-1). , Random number for determining the small hit type (random 1-2), random number for determining the variation pattern type (random 2), and random number for determining the variation pattern (random 3) are stored. The first reserved storage buffer and the second reserved storage buffer are formed in the RAM 55.

  Then, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit the first reserved memory number addition designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S216).

  Next, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the second start port switch 14a is in an on state (step S217). If the second start port switch 14a is not in the ON state, the process is terminated as it is. If the second start port switch 14a is on, the CPU 56 determines whether or not the second reserved memory number has reached the upper limit value (specifically, the second reserved memory for counting the second reserved memory number). Whether or not the value of the number counter is 4 is confirmed (step S218). If the second reserved storage number has reached the upper limit value, the processing is terminated as it is.

  If the second reserved memory number has not reached the upper limit value, the CPU 56 increases the value of the second reserved memory number counter by 1 (step S219), and the value of the aggregate reserved memory number counter for counting the total reserved memory number Is increased by 1 (step S220). 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 (see FIG. 15) (step S221). . In the process of step S221, a random R (big hit determination random number) that is a hardware random number, a big hit type determination random number (random 1-1) that is a software random number, a small hit type determination random number (random 1-2) ), Variation pattern type determination random number (random 2) and variation pattern determination random number (random 3) are extracted and stored in the storage area. It should be noted that the random number for random pattern determination (random 3) is not extracted and stored in the storage area in advance in the start-port switch passing process (at the time of start winning), but is extracted at the start of the variation of the second special symbol. May be. For example, the game control microcomputer 560 may directly extract a value from a variation pattern determination random number counter for generating a variation pattern determination random number (random 3) in a variation pattern setting process described later.

  Then, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit the second reserved memory number addition designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S222).

  16 and 17 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, if the customer waiting demonstration designation command has not yet been transmitted, control is performed to send the customer waiting demonstration designation command to the production control microcomputer 100 (step S51A), and the processing is performed. finish. For example, when the CPU 56 transmits a customer waiting demonstration designation command in step S51A, the CPU 56 sets a customer waiting demonstration designation command transmitted flag indicating that the customer waiting demonstration designation command has been transmitted. When the special symbol normal processing after the next timer interruption is executed after sending the customer waiting demo designation command, the customer waiting demonstration request command is repeatedly set based on the fact that the customer waiting demo designation command transmission completed flag is set. Control should be performed so that the demo designation command is not transmitted. In this case, the customer waiting demonstration designation command transmission completion flag may be reset when the next special symbol variation display is started.

  If the total pending storage number is not 0, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the second pending storage number is 0 (step S52). Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the second reserved memory number counter is zero. If the second reserved memory number is not 0, the CPU 56 has a special symbol pointer (a flag indicating whether the special symbol process is being performed for the first special symbol or the special symbol process is being performed for the second special symbol). Is set to data indicating “second” (step S53). If the second reserved memory number is 0 (that is, only the first reserved memory number is accumulated), the CPU 66 sets data indicating “first” in the special symbol pointer (step S54).

  In this embodiment, by executing the processing of steps S52 to S54, the variation display of the second special symbol is executed with priority over the variation display of the first special symbol. In other words, control is performed so that the second start condition for starting the variable display of the second special symbol is established in preference to the first start condition for starting the variable display of the first special symbol.

  Next, 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 in the RAM 55 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 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.

  Moreover, CPU56 performs control which transmits a background designation | designated command to the microcomputer 100 for effect control according to the present game state (step S60). In this case, when the time reduction flag indicating that the time reduction state is set, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a time reduction state background designation command. In addition, if the time reduction flag is not set, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a normal state background designation command.

  In this embodiment, the background designation command is transmitted every time for each variation. For example, it is determined at the start of the variation whether or not the gaming state has changed since the previous variation. Only when the state changes, the background designation command corresponding to the changed gaming state may be transmitted. With such a configuration, the number of transmissions of the background designation command can be reduced, and the processing burden on the game control microcomputer 560 can be reduced.

  Specifically, when the CPU 56 transmits an effect control command to the effect control microcomputer 100, the address of the command transmission table corresponding to the effect control command (preliminarily set for each command in the ROM) is given. Set to pointer. Then, the address of the command transmission table corresponding to the effect control command is set in the pointer, and the effect control command is transmitted in the effect symbol command control process (step S30). In this embodiment, when the variation of the special symbol is started, the effect control microcomputer in the order of the background designation command, the variation pattern command, the display result designation command, and the reserved memory number subtraction designation command for each timer interrupt. 100 will be transmitted. Specifically, when the change of the special symbol is started, first, the background designation command is transmitted, the variation pattern command is transmitted after 4 ms elapses, the display result designation command is transmitted after elapse of 4 ms, and further after 4 ms elapses. A pending storage count subtraction designation command is transmitted. In addition, the symbol variation designation command (the first symbol variation designation command, the second symbol variation designation command) is also transmitted when the special symbol variation starts, but the symbol variation designation command is the same timer interrupt as the variation pattern command. Is transmitted to the production control microcomputer 100.

  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 and executes a jackpot determination module. In this case, the CPU 56 reads out the jackpot determination random numbers extracted in steps S215 and S221 of the start port switch passage processing and stored in advance in the first hold storage buffer and the second hold storage buffer, and performs the jackpot determination. The jackpot determination module is a program that compares a jackpot determination value (see FIG. 10) determined in advance with a jackpot determination random number, and executes a process of determining a jackpot if they match. In other words, this is a program for executing the big hit determination process.

  In the big hit determination process, specifically, the CPU 56 performs the big hit determination process using the big hit determination table. That is, when the value of the random number for random determination (random R) matches one of the big hit determination values shown in FIG. 10A, the CPU 56 determines that the special symbol is a big hit. If it is determined to be a big hit (step S61), the process proceeds to step S62. 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. There is also.

  If the value of the jackpot determination random number (random R) does not match the jackpot determination value (N in step S61), the process proceeds to step S66.

  In step S62, the CPU 56 sets a big hit flag indicating that it is a big hit. Next, the CPU 56 uses the jackpot type determination table shown in FIG. 10D to select a type corresponding to a value that matches the value of the random number for random determination (random 1-1) stored in the random number buffer area. "4R big hit," "4R short hit big hit" or "16R short hit big hit") is determined as the big hit type (step S64). In this case, the CPU 56 reads out the jackpot type determination random numbers extracted in steps S215 and S221 of the start port switch passing process and stored in advance in the first hold memory buffer and the second hold memory buffer, and determines the jackpot type. .

  Further, the CPU 56 sets data indicating the determined jackpot type in the jackpot type buffer in the RAM 55 (step S65). For example, when the jackpot type is “4R jackpot”, “01” is set as the data indicating the jackpot type, and when the jackpot type is “4R short hit big hit”, “02” is set as the data indicating the jackpot type. When the big hit type is “short hit big at 16R”, “03” is set as data indicating the big hit type.

  In step S66, a small hit determination process is performed. Specifically, the CPU 56 performs a small hit determination process using the small hit determination table. That is, when the value of the random number for random determination (random R) matches one of the small hit determination values shown in FIGS. 10B and 10C, the CPU 56 determines that the special symbol is to be small hit. . If it is decided to make a small hit (step S66), the process proceeds to step S67. Note that determining whether or not to make a small hit means determining whether or not to shift to the small hit gaming state, but determining whether or not to make the stop symbol in the special symbol display a small hit symbol It is also to do. Further, in this case, as shown in FIGS. 10B and 10C, when the variation display of the second special symbol is executed, it is compared with the case where the variation display of the first special symbol is executed. Therefore, the percentage determined as small hits is high.

  If the value of the small hit determination random number (random R) does not match any of the small hit determination values (N in step S66), that is, if it is out of place, the process proceeds to step S70 as it is.

  In step S67, the CPU 56 sets a small hit flag indicating a small hit. Next, the CPU 56 uses the small hit type determination table shown in FIG. 10E to correspond to a value that matches the random hit type determination random number (random 1-2) stored in the random number buffer area. The type (“4R big hit at V winning”, “4R short hit at V winning” or “16R short hit at V winning”) is determined as the small hit type (step S68). In this case, the CPU 56 reads the small hit type determination random numbers extracted in steps S215 and S221 of the start port passing process and stored in advance in the first reserved storage buffer and the second reserved storage buffer, and determines the small hit type. I do.

  Further, the CPU 56 sets the data indicating the determined small hit type in the small hit type buffer in the RAM 55 (step S69), and proceeds to step S70. For example, when the small hit type is “4R big hit when winning V”, “01” is set as the data indicating the small hit type, and when the small hit type is “4R short hit when winning V”, the small hit type “02” is set as the data indicating “”, and “03” is set as the data indicating the jackpot type when the jackpot type is “Short jackpot at 16R when winning V”.

  In step S70, the CPU 56 determines a special symbol stop symbol (step S70). Specifically, when neither the big hit flag nor the small hit flag is set, “−” which is a loss symbol is determined as a special symbol stop symbol. When the big hit flag is set, according to the determination result of the big hit type, one of “3”, “5”, and “7”, which is a big hit symbol, is determined as a special symbol stop symbol. That is, when “4R big hit” is determined, “3” is determined as a special symbol stop symbol, and when “4R time short hit is determined”, “5” is determined as a special symbol stop symbol. When it is determined that “16R hour junior large hit” is determined, “7” is determined as a special symbol stop symbol. In addition, when the small hit flag is set, according to the determination result of the small hit type, any one of “2”, “4”, and “6” which is the small hit symbol is set as a special symbol stop symbol. decide. That is, when “V winning 4R big hit” is determined, “2” is determined as a special symbol stop symbol, and when “V winning 4R short jackpot” is determined, “4” is stopped as a special symbol. When the symbol is determined and “V winning 16R short junior big hit” is determined, “6” is determined as a special symbol stop symbol.

  In this embodiment, the case where the big hit type (small hit type) is first determined and the stop symbol of the special symbol corresponding to the determined big hit type (small hit type) is shown. The method for determining the stop symbol) and the special symbol stop symbol is not limited to those shown in this embodiment. For example, a table in which a special symbol stop symbol and a jackpot type (small hit type) are associated in advance is prepared, and a special symbol stop symbol is first determined based on a big hit type determining random number (small hit type determining random number). It is also possible to configure so that the corresponding big hit type (small hit type) is also determined based on the determination result.

  Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern setting process (step S301) (step S71).

  FIG. 18 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 selects one of the big hit variation pattern type determination table as a table used to determine the variation pattern type as one of a plurality of types (step) S92). Then, control goes to a step S98.

  When the big hit flag is not set, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the small hit flag is set (step S92a). When the small hit flag is set, the CPU 56 selects one of the small hit variation pattern type determination table as a table used to determine the variation pattern type as one of a plurality of types. (Step S92b). Then, control goes to a step S98.

  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 S93). The time reduction flag is set when the gaming state is shifted to the time reduction state, and is reset when the time reduction state ends. Specifically, when it is determined to be “time saving big hit”, the time saving flag is set in the process of ending the big hit game. In addition, after the big hit game is over, it is reset when the variable display is finished a predetermined number of times (100 in this embodiment). Even before the end of the predetermined number of fluctuation displays, the hourly flag is reset even when the next big hit occurs.

  If the hourly flag is not set (N in Step S93), the CPU 56 checks whether or not the total number of pending storages is 3 or more (Step S94). If the total number of pending storages is less than 3 (N in step S94), the CPU 56 determines the variation pattern type for normal use as a table used to determine the variation pattern type as one of a plurality of types. A table is selected (step S95). Then, control goes to a step S98.

  When the total number of pending storages is 3 or more (Y in step S94), the CPU 56 uses the shortening variation pattern for shortening as a table used for determining one of a plurality of variation pattern types. A type determination table is selected (step S96). Then, control goes to a step S98.

  If the time reduction flag is set (Y in step S93), that is, if the gaming state is the time reduction state, the CPU 56 uses the table used to determine the variation pattern type as one of a plurality of types. As a result, the time-varying variation pattern type determination table is selected (step S97). Then, control goes to a step S98.

  In this embodiment, by executing the processing of steps S93 to S97, if the gaming state is the normal state and the total number of pending storages is 3 or more, the shortening variation pattern type determination table for shortening Is selected. Further, when the gaming state is the time saving state, the time-varying variation pattern type determination table for time saving is selected. In this case, there is a case where the variation pattern type for shortening variation is determined in the process of step S98 described later. When the variation pattern type for shortening variation is determined, the variation of shortening is performed as the variation pattern in the processing of step S100. Non-reach PA1-2 is determined (see FIG. 8). 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 and the variation pattern type determination table for shortening variation based on the number of reserved storages are shown as different tables. A common table may be used as the variation pattern type determination table for 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 Y in step S93, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the total reserved memory number is almost zero. A variation pattern type determination table may be selected.

  In this embodiment, it can be said that it is more advantageous that the short time state (high base state) continues for a long time because the second big hit is more likely to occur. Therefore, the shortening variation may not be performed. For example, the high base state may be controlled only by increasing the probability per ordinary figure without increasing the time-short state, or increasing the opening time and the number of times of opening of the variable winning ball device 15.

  Next, the CPU 56 reads random 2 (variation pattern type determination random number) from the random number buffer area (holding storage buffer) and refers to the table selected in step S92, S92b, S95, S96 or S97, thereby changing The pattern type is determined as one of a plurality of types (step S98).

  Next, the CPU 56 uses a hit variation pattern determination table and a deviation variation pattern determination table as tables used to determine one of a plurality of variation patterns based on the determination result of the variation pattern type in step S98. One of them is selected (step S99). Further, random number 3 (variation pattern determination random number) is read from the random number buffer area (holding storage buffer), and the variation pattern is selected from any of a plurality of types by referring to the variation pattern determination table selected in step S99. (Step S100). When the random number 3 (variation pattern determination random number) is not extracted at the start winning timing, the CPU 56 uses the variation pattern determination random number counter for generating the variation pattern determination random number (random 3). 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 S101).

  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 S102). 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 S103).

  In the case where it is determined to be out of place, instead of suddenly determining the variation pattern type, first, it may be determined whether or not to reach by a lottery process using a random number for reach determination. Then, based on the determination result as to whether or not to reach, the processing of steps S93 to S98 may be executed to determine the variation pattern type. In this case, a variation pattern type determination table for non-reach and a variation pattern type determination table for reach are prepared in advance, 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 deciding whether or not to reach by a lottery process using a random number for reach determination, a reach determination table having a different reach selection ratio is selected according to the hold storage, and the number of hold memories is large. It may be determined whether or not to reach so that the reach probability becomes lower as it goes.

  19 and 20 are flowcharts showing the display result designation command transmission process (step S302). In the display result designation command transmission process, the CPU 56 determines any one of the display result 1 designation to the display result 7 designation according to the determined big hit type, small hit type, and deviation (see FIG. 11). Control to send.

  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 “4R big hit”, control is performed to transmit a display result 2 designation command (steps S111 and S112). Whether or not it is “4R big hit” can be specifically determined by checking whether or not the data set in the big hit type buffer in step S64 of the special symbol normal process is “01”. .

  If it is not “4R big hit” (that is, “4R short hit big hit” or “16R short hit big hit”), it is checked whether the big hit type is “16R short hit big hit”. When it is “big hit”, control is performed to transmit a display result 4 designation command (steps S113 and S115). Also, when it is not “16R short-time big hit” (that is, “4R short-time big hit”), control is performed to transmit a display result 3 designation command (steps S113 and S114).

  When the big hit flag is not set (N in step S110), it is confirmed whether or not the small hit flag is set (step S116). When the small hit flag is not set, that is, when it is out of place, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a display result 1 designation command (step S118).

  When the small hit flag is set (Y in step S116), if the type of the small hit is “V winning 4R big hit”, control is performed to transmit a display result 5 designation command (steps S121 and S122). Whether or not it is “V winning 4R big hit” is specifically confirmed whether or not the data set in the small hit type buffer in step S69 of the special symbol normal process is “01”. Can be determined.

  And when it is not “V winning 4R big hit” (that is, “V winning 4R short big hit” or “V winning 16R short big hit”), the small hit type “V winning 16R short big hit” If it is “V winning 16R time shortfall hit”, control is performed to transmit a display result 7 designation command (steps S123, S125). Further, when it is not “short win at 16R at the time of V winning” (that is, when it is “short hit at 4R at the time of V winning”), control for transmitting a display result 6 designation command is performed (steps S123 and S124).

  Then, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a total reserved memory number subtraction designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S119), and sets the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the special symbol changing process (step S303). (Step S115).

  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 first checks whether or not the pending storage number subtraction designation command has already been transmitted (step S1121). Whether or not the pending storage number subtraction designation command has already been transmitted indicates whether or not the pending storage number subtraction designation command has been transmitted when the pending storage number subtraction designation command is transmitted in step S1122, which will be described later, for example. The stored number subtraction designation command transmission completion flag may be set, and in step S1121, it may be confirmed whether or not the pending storage number subtraction designation command transmission completion flag is set. Also, in this case, the set reserved memory number subtraction designation command transmission completion flag is reset by special symbol stop processing or jackpot end processing, which will be described later, when the special symbol fluctuation display is terminated or when the big jackpot is terminated. That's fine.

  Next, if the reserved memory number subtraction designation command has not been transmitted, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit the reserved memory number subtraction designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S1122).

  Next, the CPU 56 subtracts 1 from the variable time timer (step S1123). When the variable time timer times out (step S1124), the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a symbol confirmation designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S1125). Then, the CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the special symbol stop process (step S304) (step S1126). If the variable time timer has not timed out, the processes in steps S1125 and S1126 are skipped.

  Next, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the time reduction flag is set (step S1303). If set, the process proceeds to step S1305.

  If the time reduction flag is not set, the CPU 56 sets the normal display time to the fixed display timer indicating the period for performing the fixed display based on the display time table (step S1304). On the other hand, when the time reduction flag is set, the CPU 56 sets the shortened display time in the fixed display timer based on the display time table (step S1305). Thereafter, the CPU 56 ends the process.

  FIG. 21A shows an example of the display time table. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 21 (A), a normal display time (600 ms) and a shortened display time (100 ms) are provided as a period during which the special symbol stop symbol is fixedly displayed.

  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 subtracts 1 from the fixed display timer (step S1307), and checks whether the fixed display timer has timed out as a result of the subtraction (step S1308). If the fixed display timer has not timed out, the process ends.

  In this embodiment, in the special symbol display control process to be described later, if the value of the special symbol process flag is 3 (that is, if the special symbol changing process is being executed), the special symbol change display is performed. The special symbol display control data is set or updated. After that, when the display control process (see step S22) is executed, the special symbol variable display on the special symbol display is executed.

  In the special symbol display control process, if the value of the special symbol process flag is 4 (that is, when the special symbol stop process is started), the special symbol display control for stopping and displaying the stop symbol of the special symbol. Data is set. Thereafter, when the display control process (see step S22) is executed, the special symbol stop symbol is stopped and displayed on the special symbol display. After the special symbol display control data for stop symbol display is set, the setting data is not changed.Therefore, in the display control process, the latest stop symbol is changed to the next stop symbol based on the latest special symbol display control data. The display is stopped until the variable display is started.

  In other words, in this embodiment, since the value of the special symbol process flag remains 4 at least from the time when the fixed display timer is set to the time when the fixed display timer times out, the special symbol is displayed on the special symbol display. The stop symbol continues to be displayed as a final display.

  As described above, if the big hit flag or the small hit flag is not set and the hourly flag is not set, the normal display time (600 ms) is set in the fixed display timer, and the big hit flag or the small hit flag is set. Is set, or when the time reduction flag is set, the shortened display time (100 ms) is set in the fixed display timer.

  Therefore, if the special symbol stop symbol is a big hit symbol or a small hit symbol, the special symbol stop symbol is fixedly displayed for a shortened display time (100 ms). Even in the time-short state, the special symbol stop symbol is fixedly displayed for a shortened display time (100 ms). On the other hand, if the stop symbol of the special symbol is an outlier symbol and is not in a time-short state, the special symbol stop symbol is fixedly displayed for normal display time (600 ms).

  As described above, in this embodiment, when the stop symbol of the special symbol is a big hit symbol or a small hit symbol, the fixed display period is shortened as compared with the case of the off symbol. . Therefore, it is possible to control early to the big hit gaming state or the small hit gaming state.

  Even if the special symbol stop symbol is derived and displayed and then the game is shifted to the big hit game state or the small hit game state at an early stage, as described above, the display control process is based on the latest special symbol display control data. Since the latest stop symbol is continuously displayed until the next variable display is started, the player can check the contents of the stop symbol during the big hit game or the small hit game.

  Further, when the gaming state is in the short time state, the fixed display period is shorter than in the case where the gaming state is not in the short time state (in the normal state). Therefore, when the time-short state is controlled, variable display of the next special symbol can be started early.

  When the fixed display timer has timed out (that is, when the fixed display time has elapsed), the CPU 56 checks whether or not the big hit flag is set (step S131). If the big hit flag is set, the CPU 56 resets the time reduction flag indicating the time reduction state and the time reduction counter indicating the number of times that the special symbol can be changed in the time reduction state if it is set (step S132), a control for transmitting a big hit start designation command to the production control microcomputer 100 is performed (step S133).

  In addition, a value corresponding to the jackpot display time (time for notifying that the jackpot has occurred, for example, in the effect display device 9) is set in the timer before opening the big prize opening (step S134). In addition, the number of times of opening (for example, 16 times if the big hit type is “16R short-time big hit”) is set in the number-of-opens counter for counting the number of times the big winning opening is opened in the big hit game (in this example, the number of rounds). (Step S135). 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 S136).

  On the other hand, if the big hit flag is not set in step S131, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the hourly number counter that indicates the number of times that the special symbol can be changed in the timeless state is 0 (step S137). If the value of the time reduction counter is not 0, the CPU 56 decrements the value of the time reduction counter by −1 (step S138). When the value of the time reduction counter after subtraction becomes 0 (step S139), the CPU 56 resets the time reduction flag (step S140).

  Then, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the small hit flag is set (step S141), and if the small hit flag is set, the value of the special symbol process flag is used for the pre-release of the accessory (step S308). The value is updated to the corresponding value (step S142), and 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 S143).

  In the process for pre-opening the big winning opening, the CPU 56 decrements the value of the timer before opening the big winning opening. When the timer before the big prize opening is timed out (the value of the timer before the big prize opening is 0), the CPU 56 selects the command for opening the big prize opening according to the type of jackpot and the round to be started, and releases the big prize opening. Control is performed to set the value of the current number-of-opens counter in the EXT data of the medium designation command and transmit it to the effect control microcomputer 100.

  Next, the CPU 56 initializes a winning number counter. That is, the value of the winning number counter is set to zero.

  Next, the CPU 56 sets the opening time (29 seconds in this example) corresponding to the big hit type and the starting round to the opening time timer for measuring the opening time of the big winning opening.

  Next, the CPU 56 controls the special winning opening to be in an open state. Specifically, the solenoid 21 is driven to open the special variable winning ball apparatus 20.

  Then, the CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the special winning opening opening process.

  In the special winning opening opening process, the CPU 56 first checks whether or not the detection signal from the count switch 23 is input. When the count switch 23 is turned on, that is, when a game ball won in the big winning opening is detected, the value of the winning number counter is incremented by one.

  Next, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the winning number counter is 10. If the value of the winning number counter is 10, the process shifts to a process for controlling the large winning opening in the closed state.

  If the value of the winning number counter is less than 10, the CPU 56 subtracts 1 from the opening time timer and checks whether the opening time timer has timed out. If the release time timer has not timed out, the process is terminated. If the opening time timer has timed out, the CPU 56 controls the big prize opening to be closed. Specifically, the drive of the solenoid 21 is stopped and the open / close plate of the special variable winning ball apparatus 20 is closed.

  Next, the CPU 56 performs control to set the value of the current number-of-opening counter to EXT data and transmit a designation command after opening the big prize opening to the effect control microcomputer 100.

  Next, the CPU 56 decrements the value of the number-of-opening counter by 1 and checks whether the value of the number-of-opening counter after subtraction is 0. When the value of the number-of-releases counter is 0 (that is, when all rounds in the jackpot game have ended), the CPU 56 changes the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the jackpot end processing. Update.

  If the value of the number-of-opening counter is not 0 (that is, if there are still remaining rounds), the CPU 56 sets the pre-round start time (for example, the start of a new round) A value (in this example, 1 second) corresponding to the time to be notified on the display device 9 (corresponding to a time period when performing an interval effect) is set. Then, the CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the pre-winner opening pre-processing.

  In the jackpot end process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the jackpot end display timer is set. If the jackpot end display timer is set, the CPU 56 proceeds to a process of subtracting 1 from the value of the jackpot end display timer. When the jackpot end display timer is not set, the jackpot flag is reset and control for transmitting a jackpot end designation command is performed. Then, a value corresponding to the display time corresponding to the time during which the big hit end display is performed in the effect display device 9 (the big hit end display time) is set in the big hit end display timer, and the processing is ended.

  When subtracting 1 from the value of the jackpot end display timer, the CPU 56 checks whether the value of the jackpot end display timer is 0, that is, whether the jackpot end display time has elapsed. If not, the process ends.

  If the big hit end display time has elapsed, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the big hit that ends this time is a short-time big hit. Note that whether or not it is a “short time big hit” is specifically determined whether or not the data set in the big hit type buffer in step S64 of the special symbol normal processing is “02” or “03”, or a special The determination can be made by checking whether the data set in the small hit type buffer in step S69 of the symbol normal process is “02” or “03”. If it is a time-saving big hit, the CPU 56 sets a time-saving flag and shifts to the time-saving state. In addition, the CPU 56 sets a predetermined number of times (for example, 100 times) in the time reduction number counter.

  If it is not a time-saving big hit (that is, if it is a non-time-saving big hit (or a big win by V winning from a non-time-short-time big hit)), the CPU 56 does not execute the processing of setting the time-saving flag and setting the time-saving counter. The game state after the big hit game is set to the normal state.

  Then, the CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the special symbol normal process.

  FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing the pre-release of the accessory (step S308) in the special symbol process. In the pre-release process, the CPU 56 releases an opening time (for example, 5 seconds) of the variable winning ball device (right) 24 and measures an opening time of the variable winning ball device (right) 24. The time timer is set (step S1512).

  Next, the CPU 56 controls the variable winning ball device (right) 24 to be in an open state (step S1513A). Specifically, the solenoid 25 is driven to open the open / close plate of the variable winning ball apparatus (object) 24. Then, the CPU 56 sets 0 in the in-function game ball number counter (step S1513B). The in-game game ball number counter is a counter that indicates the number of game balls that have not yet been discharged after entering the variable winning ball device (work) 24. For example, the number-of-games game ball counter is incremented by 1 when a game ball is won in the variable winning ball device (right) 24 (that is, when the winning character winning switch 28 is turned on). 1 is subtracted when the game ball is discharged from (the accessory) 24 (when the accessory discharge switch 30 is on). Accordingly, when the value of the in-game game ball number counter is 0, this is a case in which all the game balls that have entered the variable winning ball device (work) 24 are discharged.

  Next, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit an accessory release start designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S1514).

  Then, the CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the bonus release process (step S309) (step S1515).

  FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing the process during releasing an accessory (step S309) in the special symbol process. In the process during opening of a bonus item, the CPU 56 first checks whether or not a detection signal from the bonus prize winning switch 28 has been input (step S1520A). When the winning combination winning switch 28 is turned on, that is, when it is detected that a game ball has entered the variable winning ball apparatus (accessory) 24, the value of the in-function game ball number counter is incremented by 1 (step S1520B).

  Next, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the detection signal from the accessory discharge switch 30 has been input (step S1521). When the bonus discharge switch 30 is turned on, that is, when a game ball that has entered a region other than the specific region (V winning region) is detected among the game balls that have entered the variable winning ball device (combination) 24 (Y in step S1521). ), 1 is subtracted from the value of the in-function game ball number counter (step S1522A).

  Next, the CPU 56 subtracts 1 from the accessory release time timer (step S1523), and checks whether or not the accessory release time timer has timed out (step S1524). If the accessory release time timer has not timed out, the process proceeds to step S1528. If the bonus release time has timed out, the CPU 56 controls the variable winning ball apparatus (a bonus) 24 to a closed state (step S1525). Specifically, the drive of the solenoid 25 is stopped, and the open / close plate of the variable winning ball apparatus (the accessory) 24 is closed. Then, the CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the bonus release post-processing (step S310) (step S1526).

  In this embodiment, as a condition for controlling the variable winning ball apparatus (object) 24 to the closed state, the accessory release time timer is timed out (that is, a predetermined time has elapsed), but the present invention is not limited to this. It is not a thing. For example, when the winning (or discharging) of the game ball with respect to the variable winning ball device (combination) 24 is detected a predetermined number of times, the variable winning ball device (combination) 24 may be controlled to be closed. For example, when a winning of a game ball with respect to the variable winning ball apparatus (object) 24 is detected (for example, before and after step S1520B), when a predetermined counter is incremented and the predetermined counter value becomes 10. If the process proceeds to step S1525, the variable winning ball apparatus (function) 24 is controlled to be closed when the winning of the game ball with respect to the variable winning ball apparatus (function) 24 is detected ten times. In addition, for example, when the discharge of the game ball from the variable winning ball device (act) 24 is detected (for example, between Y and S1523 in step S1521), the predetermined counter is incremented by 1, and the value of the predetermined counter is increased. If the game proceeds to step S1525 when 10 is reached, the variable winning ball device (servant) 24 is closed when the discharge of the game ball from the variable winning ball device (guard) 24 is detected ten times. It will be controlled to the state. Further, as a condition for controlling the variable winning ball device (right) 24 to be in a closed state, the elapse of a predetermined time and the winning (or discharging) of the game ball with respect to the variable winning ball device (right) 24 are predetermined. The detection of the number of times may be used in combination. For example, even when a predetermined time has not elapsed, when a winning of a game ball is detected a predetermined number of times with respect to the variable winning ball device (right) 24, the variable winning ball device (right) 24 is controlled to be closed. It is good to do.

  If the bonus release timer has not timed out (N in step S1524), the CPU 56 checks whether or not the detection signal from the V winning switch 29 has been input (step S1528). When the V winning switch 29 is turned on, that is, when a gaming ball that has entered a specific area (V winning area) is detected among the gaming balls that have entered the variable winning ball apparatus (object) 24 (Y in step S1528), the CPU 56 Then, control is performed to transmit the V winning switch detection designation command to the production control microcomputer 100 (step S1529).

  Next, the CPU 56 controls the variable winning ball device (right) 24 to a closed state (step S1530). Specifically, the drive of the solenoid 25 is stopped, and the open / close plate of the variable winning ball apparatus (the accessory) 24 is closed. Further, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit an accessory release end designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S1531).

  Next, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the time reduction flag is set (step S1532). If the time reduction flag is not set (that is, in the normal state), the process proceeds to step S1535. If the time reduction flag is set (that is, the time reduction state), the CPU 56 resets the time reduction flag (step S1533). In other words, since the V winning in the specific area (V winning area) in the variable winning ball apparatus (object) 24 occurs and the big hit game (second big hit game) is generated, the time reduction flag is reset and the time is reduced. Exit state.

  In this embodiment, regardless of whether the gaming state is the normal state or the short-time state, a V winning is generated in a specific area (V winning area) in the variable winning ball apparatus (object) 24. In this example, a big win game (second big hit game) is generated. However, when a V winning is generated in a specific area (V winning area) in the variable winning ball device (function) 24 during the short-time state. Only a big hit game (second big hit game) may be generated.

  Next, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a jackpot start designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S1535).

  In addition, a value corresponding to the jackpot display time (time for notifying that the jackpot has occurred, for example, in the effect display device 9) is set in the timer before opening the big prize opening (step S1536). In addition, the number of times of opening (for example, 15 times) is set in an opening number counter for counting the number of times of opening of the big winning opening in the jackpot game (in this example, the number of rounds) (step S1537). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the pre-winner pre-opening process (step S1502) (step S1538), and the process of releasing the bonus is ended. If the V winning switch is on in step S1528, the value of the in-function game ball number counter may be reset. Alternatively, the player may wait until the value of the in-function game ball counter reaches zero.

  FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing the post-release processing (step S2501B) in the special symbol process. In the post-opening process of the bonus item, the CPU 56 first confirms whether or not a detection signal from the bonus prize winning switch 28 has been input (step S2520A). When the winning combination winning switch 28 is turned on, that is, when it is detected that a game ball has entered the variable winning ball apparatus (playing object) 24, the value of the in-work game ball number counter is incremented by 1 (step S2520B).

  Next, the CPU 56 checks whether or not a detection signal from the accessory discharge switch 30 has been input (step S2521). When the bonus discharge switch 30 is turned on, that is, when a game ball that has won in an area other than the specific area (V prize area) is detected among the game balls that have entered the variable prize ball device (guard) 24 (Y in step S2521). ), 1 is subtracted from the value of the in-function game ball number counter (step S2522).

  Next, the CPU 56 determines whether or not the value of the in-function game ball number counter is 0 (step S2524), and if not, the process proceeds to step S2528. If the value of the in-function game ball number counter is 0, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit an accessory release end designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S2525). Then, 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 S2526).

  If the value of the in-game game ball number counter is not 0 (N in Step S2524), the CPU 56 checks whether or not the detection signal from the V winning switch 29 is input (Step S2528). When the V winning switch 29 is turned on, that is, when a gaming ball that has won a specific area (V winning area) is detected among the gaming balls that have entered the variable winning ball apparatus (object) 24 (Y in step S2528), the CPU 56 Then, control is performed to transmit the V winning switch detection designation command to the production control microcomputer 100 (step S2529).

  Next, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit an accessory release end designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S2531). Next, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the time reduction flag is set (step S2532). If the time reduction flag is not set (that is, in the normal state), the process proceeds to step S2535. If the time reduction flag is set (that is, the time reduction state), the CPU 56 resets the time reduction flag (step S2533). In other words, since the V winning in the specific area (V winning area) in the variable winning ball apparatus (object) 24 occurs and the big hit game (second big hit game) is generated, the time reduction flag is reset and the time is reduced. Exit state.

  Next, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a jackpot start designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S2535).

  In addition, a value corresponding to the jackpot display time (time for notifying that the jackpot has occurred, for example, in the effect display device 9) is set in the timer before opening the big prize opening (step S2536). In addition, the number of times of opening (for example, 15 times) is set in an opening number counter for counting the number of times of opening of the big winning opening in the jackpot game (in this example, the number of rounds) (step S2537). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the pre-opening process for the special winning opening (step S2502) (step S2538), and the post-opening process is ended. If the V winning switch is ON in step S2528, the value of the in-function game ball number counter may be reset.

  As described above, in this embodiment, a game ball that has entered immediately before closing the variable winning ball device (act) 24 may enter the specific area (V winning area) or the like with a slight delay. It is decided to shift to the pre-release processing with a margin. As in the present embodiment, after controlling the variable winning ball device (combination) 24 to the closed state, the specific area (until the number of entered game balls and the number of discharged game balls coincide with each other). (V winning area) or the like may be monitored, or steps S1521 to S1522A and S1528 to S1529 are performed until a predetermined period elapses after the variable winning ball apparatus (a combination) 24 is controlled to be closed. The same process is performed to monitor the winning in a specific area (V winning area) and the like, and even after the variable winning ball apparatus (object) 24 is closed, it is effective if winning is made within a predetermined period. You may make it treat as.

  In step S2520A, when the detection signal from the prize winning switch 28 is input, the variable winning ball apparatus (right) 24 is entered when the variable winning ball apparatus (right) 24 is closed. This is a case where a game ball that has not been reached to the position detected by the accessory winning switch 28 (hereinafter referred to as “delayed ball”) has reached the position detected by the accessory winning switch 28. That is, by performing the processing of steps S2520A and S2520B, it is possible to wait until all the game balls won in the variable winning ball device (object) 24 are discharged in consideration of the delayed ball. Here, if it is determined in step S2524 that the value of the in-game game ball number counter is 0 at a time before the delayed ball reaches the position detected by the prize winning switch 28, There is a possibility that the delayed ball may win a specific area after controlling to the state where the V winning switch is not monitored (for example, during execution of the pre-opening process). In that case, despite the occurrence of a V prize, it is not controlled to the big hit gaming state (second big hit gaming state), which may be disadvantageous to the player. Accordingly, a timer longer than the time required for the delayed ball to reach the position detected by the winning combination winning switch 28 after winning the winning winning ball apparatus (retaining accessory) 24 is set as a variable winning ball apparatus (rewarding accessory). 24 is set when it is controlled to be closed, and during the measurement of the timer, even if the value of the in-game game ball number counter is 0, if monitoring of the V winning switch is continued, the V winning switch It is possible to prevent the delayed ball from winning a specific area in a state where the monitoring is not performed, and to prevent a situation that is disadvantageous to the player. In this case, if the value of the in-function game ball number counter is determined to be 0 after the timer has timed out, control is performed so that the V winning switch is not monitored.

  FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing an example of the special symbol display control process (step S33) executed by the game control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) mounted on the main board 31. In the special symbol display control process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the special symbol process flag is 3 (that is, whether or not the special symbol changing process is being executed) (step S3201). If the value of the special symbol process flag is 3 (that is, if the special symbol variation processing is being executed), the CPU 56 sets the special symbol display control data for special symbol variation display for setting the special symbol display control data. Processing for setting or updating the output buffer is performed (step S3202). In this case, the CPU 56 sets or updates the special symbol display control data for performing variable symbol special display. For example, if the fluctuation speed is 1 frame / 0.2 seconds, the value of the special symbol display control data set in the output buffer is incremented by 1 every time 0.2 seconds elapse. After that, display control processing (see step S22) is executed, and a drive signal is output to the special symbol displays 8a and 8b in accordance with the contents of the output buffer for setting the special symbol display control data. The special symbol display on the special symbol indicators 8a and 8b is executed.

  If the value of the special symbol process flag is not 3, the CPU 56 checks whether the value of the special symbol process flag is 4 (that is, whether the special symbol stop process is being executed) (step S3203). ). If the value of the special symbol process flag is 4 (that is, when the special symbol stop processing is entered), the CPU 56 stops the special symbol stop symbol set in the special symbol normal processing. Processing for setting the display control data in the output buffer for setting the special symbol display control data is performed (step S3204). In this case, the CPU 56 sets special symbol display control data for stopping and displaying the special symbol stop symbol. After that, display control processing (see step S22) is executed, and a drive signal is output to the special symbol displays 8a and 8b in accordance with the contents of the output buffer for setting the special symbol display control data. The special symbol stop symbols are stopped and displayed on the special symbol indicators 8a and 8b. In addition, since the setting data is not changed after the process of step S3204 is executed and the special symbol display control data for the stop symbol display is set, the latest special symbol display control data is displayed in the display control process of step S22. Based on this, the latest stop symbol is stopped and displayed until the next variable display is started. If the value of the special symbol process flag is 2 or 3 in step S3201 (that is, if either the display result designation command transmission process or the special symbol variation process), the special symbol variation display is performed. The special symbol display control data may be updated. In this case, the display result designation command transmission process also varies in order to prevent a deviation between the variation time recognized on the game control microcomputer 560 side and the variation time recognized on the effect control microcomputer 100 side. What is necessary is just to comprise so that 1 may subtract a time timer.

  In this embodiment, the special symbol display control data is set in the output buffer according to the value of the special symbol process flag. However, in the special symbol process, the start flag is set at the start of the variation of the special symbol. In addition, an end flag may be set at the end of the variation of the special symbol. In the special symbol display control process (step S33), the CPU 56 starts updating the value of the special symbol display control data based on the start flag being set, and based on the end flag being set. Thus, special symbol display control data for stopping and displaying the stop symbol may be set.

  Next, the operation of the effect control means will be described. FIG. 27 is a flowchart showing a main process executed by the production control microcomputer 100 (specifically, the production control CPU 101) as the production control means mounted on the production 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, 4 ms) (step S701). . 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 following effect control process.

  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 effect control CPU 101 performs effect control process processing (step S705). In the effect control process, a process corresponding to the current control state (effect control process flag) is selected from each process corresponding to the control state when the special symbol variation display and the big hit game are performed, and the effect display is performed. The display control of the device 9 is executed.

  Next, a random number update process for updating a count value of a counter for generating a random number such as a jackpot symbol determining random number is executed (step S707). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S702.

  FIG. 28 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of a command reception buffer for storing the effect control command received from the game control microcomputer 560 of the main board 31. In this example, a ring buffer type command receiving buffer capable of storing six 2-byte 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 is stored in a buffer area formed in the RAM. In the command analysis process, it is analyzed which command (see FIG. 11) the effect control command stored in the buffer area is. Note that the interrupt process based on the effect control INT signal is executed in preference to the timer interrupt process executed every 4 ms.

  29 and 30 are flowcharts showing a specific example of the command analysis process (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 the command reception buffer (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.

  If the received effect control command is a variation pattern command (step S614), the effect control CPU 101 stores the received 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 designation command (step S617), the effect control CPU 101 forms the received display result designation command (display result 1 designation command to display result 7 designation command) in the RAM. Is stored in the display result designation command storage area (step S618).

  If the received effect control command is a symbol confirmation designation command (step S619), the effect control CPU 101 sets a confirmed command reception flag (step S620).

  If the received effect control command is a jackpot start designation command (command A000 (H)) (step S621), the effect control CPU 101 sets a jackpot start designation command reception flag (step S622).

  If the received effect control command is a jackpot end designation command (command A300 (H)) (step S625), the effect control CPU 101 sets a jackpot end designation command reception flag (step S626).

  If the received effect control command is an accessory release start designation command (command D100 (H)) (step S629), the effect control CPU 101 sets an accessory release start designation command reception flag (step S630).

  If the received effect control command is an accessory release end designation command (command D200 (H)) (step S631), the effect control CPU 101 sets an accessory release end designation command reception flag (step S632).

  If the received effect control command is a firing ball detection designation command (command E100 (H)) (step S633), the effect control CPU 101 sets a firing ball detection designation command reception flag (step S634).

  If the received effect control command is another command, the effect control CPU 101 sets a flag corresponding to the received effect control command (step S649). Then, control goes to a step S611.

  FIG. 31 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 performs one of steps S800a and steps S800 to S807 according to the value of the effect control process flag. In each process, the following process is executed.

  Launch notification process (step S800a): If the launch ball detection designation command received from the game control microcomputer 560 is within a period (notification target period) in which the player may enter the variable winning ball device (object) 24, The production control CPU 101 informs the fire sound. Specifically, FIG. 32 is a flowchart (FIG. 32 (a)) and a firing sound mode table (FIG. 32 (b)) showing the firing notification process. First, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not an accessory release setting flag is set (step S8001). When the bonus release setting flag is not set (step S8001: N), the effect control CPU 101 determines that the display result designation command stored in the display result designation command storage area in step S618 is display result 5 designation command to display result 7. It is confirmed whether the command is a designated command (step S8002). In other words, it is confirmed whether or not the variable winning ball apparatus (function) 24 is controlled to the small hit gaming state that is opened.

  When the display result designation command is the display result 5 designation command to the display result 7 designation command (step S8002: Y), the effect control CPU 101 performs the hitting ball launching device 550 based on the firing sound mode table shown in FIG. The sound for launching the game ball is set (step S8003). In the sound emission mode table shown in FIG. 32 (b), the lottery ratios of sound emission set according to the small hit type are different. Based on this firing sound mode table, the production control CPU 101 sets the firing sound of “Go” at a rate of 90% by lottery when the small hit type is 4R big hit (4R big hit) when winning V. Set the “chance” firing sound at a rate. Further, the production control CPU 101 sets the firing sound of “Go” at a ratio of 50% by lottery when the small hit type is 4R short-time big hit (4R short-time) at the time of winning V based on this firing sound mode table. Set the “chance” firing sound at a 50% rate. Further, the production control CPU 101 sets the sound of “Go” at a rate of 20% by lottery when the small hit type is 16R big hit (16R big hit) at the time of winning V based on this shot sound mode table. Set the “chance” firing sound at the rate of% and the “hot” firing sound at the rate of 50%.

  Next, the production control CPU 101 calculates a period (notification target period) for notifying the fired sound set in step S8003 from the received variation pattern command (step S8004). In other words, the production control CPU 101 obtains the timing at which the variable winning ball device (right) 24 is released after the production symbol is stopped from the variation pattern command, and the game ball is transferred to the variable winning ball device (right) 24 at that timing. The launch period of a game ball with a possibility of winning (entering) is calculated as the notification target period. For example, if the average time until the game ball launched from the hitting ball launching device 550 reaches the variable winning ball device (function) 24 is about 3 seconds, the effect control CPU 101 has the variable winning ball device (right). A period of about 2 seconds from about 3 seconds before the timing of opening 24 is calculated as the notification target period. Here, it is assumed that a waiting time until the variable winning ball apparatus (a bonus item) 24 is opened after the effect symbol is stopped is set in the variation pattern command. Of course, in the variation pattern command, only the time until the effect symbol is stopped is set, and the effect control CPU 101 obtains the timing at which the variable winning ball device (act) 24 is released from the set time. Good. In this embodiment, the configuration in which the notification target period is calculated from the variation pattern command has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the timing for opening the variable winning ball device (work) 24 is set in advance. The notification target period may be calculated by newly adding a dedicated command such as a small hitting start designation command to be notified to. Further, if the period from the end of the symbol change to the opening of the variable winning ball device (object) 24 is constant, the notification target period can be calculated by the symbol confirmation designation command (command 8F00 (H)). Good. In addition, as long as the notification target period can be calculated, a command such as an accessory release start designation command may be used.

  Next, the CPU 101 for effect control sets a firing sound in step S8003, and sets an accessory release setting flag when the notification target period can be calculated in step S8004 (step S8005). If the display result designation command is not a display result 5 designation command to a display result 7 designation command (step S8002: N), the effect control CPU 101 skips the processing of steps S8003 to S8005.

  Next, when the accessory release setting flag is set (step S8001: Y), the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the firing ball detection designation command has been received (step S8006). In other words, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the shot ball detection designation command reception flag is set in step S634, so that the game ball has been fired from the hit ball launcher 550 (that there has been a launch operation). ) Can be confirmed. When the firing ball detection designation command has been received (step S8006: Y), the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the timing at which the firing ball detection designation command is received is within the notification target period calculated in step S8004. (Step S8007).

  When the timing at which the firing ball detection designation command is received is within the notification target period calculated in step S8004 (step S8007: Y), the effect control CPU 101 outputs the firing sound set in step S8003 from the speaker 27. For example, if the small hit type is 16R big hit, the production control CPU 101 is set to “hot” as the sound to be emitted, and if a game ball is launched within the notification target period, the speaker 27 emits “hot”. Output sound. In addition, when the firing ball detection designation command cannot be received (step S8006: N) or when the timing at which the firing ball detection designation command is received is not within the notification target period calculated at step S8004 (step S8007: N), The CPU 101 advances the process to step S8009.

  The effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not an accessory release end designation command has been received (step S8009). When the bonus release end designation command is received (step S8009: Y), the effect control CPU 101 determines that the small winning game state has ended and the variable winning ball apparatus (guard) 24 has been closed, thereby releasing the bonus. The setting flag is reset (step S8010). If the accessory release end designation command has not been received (step S8009: N), the effect control CPU 101 skips the process of step S8010.

  Next, the timings at which the variable winning ball device (combination) 24 is released (community release), the notification target period, the timing at which the shot ball detection designation command is received (launch detection), and the timing of the firing sound are used. I will explain. FIG. 33 is a timing chart showing the timings of the release of the accessory, the notification target period, the launch detection, and the launch sound in the launch notification process.

  First, the signal for releasing an accessory shown in FIG. 33 indicates that the variable winning ball apparatus (the accessory) 24 is released in 1.5 seconds when the signal level becomes the H level. The notification target period starts about 3.0 seconds before the opening of the variable winning ball device (the accessory) 24 is started (the timing at which the signal level for releasing the accessory rises from the L level to the H level). In FIG. 33, the period in which the signal level is H level is the notification target period, and the period in which the signal level is L bell is the non-notification target period. Here, it is calculated that the notification target period starts approximately 3.0 seconds before the opening of the variable winning ball device (object) 24 is started. The game ball fired from the hitting ball shooting device 550 is variable winning. Based on the fact that the average time to reach the ball device (object) 24 is about 3 seconds. If the average time is about 2 seconds, it is calculated that the notification target period starts about 2.0 seconds before. The Also, the notification target period shown in FIG. 33 is set to about 2.0 seconds, which is slightly longer than the period since the period during which the variable winning ball device (object) 24 is released is 1.5 seconds. . The notification target period is 1.5 seconds, which is the same as the period during which the variable winning ball device (object) 24 is opened, and the game is performed during the period when there is a possibility of winning the variable winning ball device (object) 24. As long as it can be notified that the ball has been fired, the period may be longer or shorter.

  The launch detection signal shown in FIG. 33 is illustrated as a pulse signal every 0.6 seconds, and shows a state in which game balls are being continuously fired from the ball striking device 550. This pulse signal for detecting the launch indicates that one game ball is being launched from the hitting ball launcher 550 by one pulse signal of 0.6 seconds.

  In the signal of the emission sound A shown in FIG. 33, it is illustrated as a pulse signal that the emission sound is output at the timing when the emission detection timing and the notification target period overlap. That is, the signal of the sound A indicates that the sound set in step S8003 is output from the speaker 27 for three balls in the notification target period among the game balls launched from the hitting ball launcher 550. Thereby, the player can recognize that the game balls are fired in the variable winning ball device (function) 24 during a period in which there is a possibility of winning the three game balls for which the firing sound is output, It is possible to make the player pay more attention to whether or not to win the variable winning ball apparatus (a combination) 24 and the movement of the game ball.

  Here, as a modified example, the notification target period is not set to about 2.0 seconds from about 3.0 seconds before the timing at which the variable winning ball device (act) 24 is started to be opened. A period (a period indicated by a broken line) from about 3.0 seconds before the timing at which the opening of the ball device (guard) 24 is started to when the variable winning ball device (guard) 24 is closed may be used. When the notification target period is set in this period, the sound set in step S8003 is output from the speaker 27 at the timing illustrated as the pulse signal in the signal of the sound B shown in FIG. Thereby, since the sound B can output the sound for a longer period than the case of the sound A, it is determined whether or not to win the variable winning ball device (object) 24 and the movement of the game ball. You can get more attention.

  Returning to FIG. 31, the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800): It is confirmed whether or not a variation pattern command is 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).

  Production symbol variation start processing (step S801): Control is performed so that the variation of the production 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).

  Effect symbol variation stop processing (step S803): Control is performed to stop the variation of the effect symbol and derive and display the display result (stop symbol). Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the jackpot display process (step S804), the accessory release notification process (step S808), or the variation pattern command reception wait process (step S800).

  Big hit display process (step S804): After the end of the variation time, control (for example, fanfare effect) is performed to display a screen for notifying the effect display device 9 of the occurrence of the big win. 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 (for example, in-round effect) is performed. When the round end condition is satisfied, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the first round post-processing (step S806).

  Post-round processing (step S806): Display control between rounds is performed. If the round start 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 process in the first round (step S805). 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).

  Big hit end effect processing (step S807): In the effect display device 9, display control is performed to notify the player that the big hit game 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).

  Bonus release notification process (step S808): In the effect display device 9, control is performed to display that the variable winning ball device (guard) 24 is controlled to be in the open state. If the V winning switch detection designation command is received, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the jackpot display process (step S804).

  FIG. 34 is a flowchart showing the accessory release notification process. First, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not an accessory release start designation command has been received (step S8801). When receiving the bonus release start designation command (step S8801: Y), the effect control CPU 101 displays on the effect display device 9 that the variable winning ball device (guard) 24 is controlled to be in the open state. Notification is performed (step S8802). Specifically, the CPU 101 for effect control displays on the effect display device 9 such as “Aim for a V prize!” And “Aim for an object by right-handing!” And the variable winning ball device (object) 24 is displayed. Inform the player that it is open. Note that, when an accessory release start designation command is not received (step S8801: N), the effect control CPU 101 skips the process of step S8802.

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not a V winning switch detection designation command has been received (step S8803). When the V winning switch detection designation command is received (step S8803: Y), the effect control CPU 101 notifies the effect display device 9 that the game ball has passed through the V winning area (step S8804). Specifically, the effect control CPU 101 displays “V winning!” On the effect display device 9 to notify the player that the V winning has been won and the game will shift to a big hit. Next, the effect control CPU 101 updates the value of the effect control process flag to a value corresponding to the jackpot display process (step S804) (step S8805). In other words, the effect control CPU 101 executes the big hit effect corresponding to the big hit type (4R big hit, 4R short time big hit, 16R big hit) that shifts after the V winning according to the small hit type on the effect display device 9, so Update the value of the flag. If the V winning switch detection designation command is not received (step S8803: N), the effect control CPU 101 skips the processes of steps S8804 and S8805.

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not an accessory release end designation command has been received (step S8806). When the bonus release end designation command has been received (step S8806: Y), the effect control CPU 101 performs notification to display that the variable winning ball device (guard) 24 is controlled to be closed (step S8807). ). Specifically, the effect control CPU 101 turns off the indications such as “Aim for a V prize!” And “Aim for an object by right-handing!” On the effect display device 9, and a variable winning ball apparatus (object) Inform the player that 24 is closed. Note that, when an accessory release end designation command is not received (step S8806: N), the effect control CPU 101 skips the processes of steps S8807 and S8808.

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 updates the value of the effect control process flag to a value corresponding to the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800) (step S8808). For example, the production control CPU 101 varies the production of the variable winning ball apparatus (object) 24 according to the type of small hit, and the 16R big hit after the V winning is more expected than the 4R big hit after the V winning. Produce feelings.

  As described above, according to this embodiment, the hitting ball launching device 550 that launches the game ball, the variable winning ball device (the accessory) 24 that can be changed to an open state in which the game ball can win, and the variable There is provided an effect control CPU 101 for outputting and notifying a sound emitted from the speaker 27 so that it can be specified that a game ball has been fired in a notification target period with a possibility of winning a prize to the winning ball device (object) 24. . With such a configuration, the player can recognize that a game ball has been fired during a period in which there is a possibility of winning the variable winning ball apparatus (a combination) 24, whether or not to enter the variable entry means, and whether or not the game It is possible to make the player pay more attention to the movement of the medium.

  Next, the game control microcomputer 560 can control the progress of the game and can control the game state based on the fact that the game ball has passed through the V winning area provided in the variable winning ball device (object) 24. is there. Then, for example, after the variable display of the first special symbol, the second special symbol, and the effect symbol is completed, the game control microcomputer 560 displays the display result of the variable display of the identification information. With such a configuration, it is possible to make an early transition to the specific gaming state.

  In addition, although the CPU 56 has been described in step S1513A as controlling the variable winning ball device (right) 24 to the open state, the opening pattern (opening mode) of the variable winning ball device (right) 24 is not necessarily one type (for example, It is not necessary to limit the number of opening / closing times to one and the opening time is 1.5 seconds, and a plurality of opening patterns may be selected. Specifically, the CPU 56 may change the opening pattern of the variable winning ball device (combination) 24 according to the small hit type. Further, the CPU 101 for effect control may perform notification in a different mode according to the opening pattern of the variable winning ball device (right) 24. For example, different types of notification are performed, such as changing the type of fired sound to be output according to the opening pattern of the variable winning ball apparatus (object) 24 and changing the blinking pattern of the rail tip LED 28a. With such a configuration, different notifications can be made depending on the state of the winning state of the variable winning ball apparatus (community) 24 and the interest can be improved.

  Next, before the CPU 56 passes the V winning area provided in the variable winning ball apparatus (function) 24, the advantage after the game ball passes the V winning area (for example, 4R big hit, 4R short hit big hit, A game state such as 16R hour junior high) is determined, and notification of different modes is performed according to the determined advantage (for example, as in the sound generation mode table shown in FIG. 32 (b), the small hit type (V winning) The lottery ratios of the fire sounds (“Go”, “Chance”, “Hot”) set according to the subsequent jackpot type are varied). With such a configuration, it is possible to pay more attention to whether or not the game ball that has been launched wins the variable winning ball apparatus (a combination) 24 or whether or not it passes through the V winning area.

  Further, the production control CPU 101, for example, can not detect a game ball with the launch confirmation switch 37b due to the suspension of the launch operation on the hitting ball launcher 550, and if the production control CPU 101 does not receive the launch ball detection designation command, a notification is given. Stop. With such a configuration, it is possible to avoid inconsistencies in notification by the CPU 101 for effect control.

  Next, the game control microcomputer 560 displays the display result of the variable display of the identification information (special symbol in this example) derived and displayed on the variable display means (special symbol display in this example) (stop symbol in this example). Until at least the control after the variable display of the identification information is finished (for example, the control for starting the variable display of the next identification information and the control for starting the big hit gaming state or the small hit gaming state) A fixed display means for performing fixed display for a predetermined period of time. Then, when the display result of the variable display of the identification information is the specific display result (in this example, the big hit symbol or the small hit symbol), the fixed display means is not the specific display result (for example, when it is a missed symbol). In comparison, the predetermined period is shortened. With this configuration, when the display result of the variable display of the identification information is the specific display result (in this example, the big hit symbol or the small hit symbol), the specific gaming state (in this example, the big hit gaming state or small in the example) The game state can be controlled.

  Further, in this embodiment, if it is confirmed that a game ball is fired from the hit ball launching device 550 and the launch confirmation switch 37b is turned on, a launch ball detection designation command is transmitted to the effect control CPU 101, and the effect control is performed. When the CPU 101 receives the shot ball detection designation command during the notification target period, the CPU 101 outputs a shooting sound on the assumption that the game ball has been shot in a period during which there is a possibility of winning a prize to the variable winning ball device (object) 24. Explained the configuration. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the firing strength of the game ball is calculated based on the detection signal of the handle rotation position from the potentiometer (position sensor) of the hitting operation handle 5, and the launch strength or variable winning ball that can be a foul ball is calculated. In the case of a launch intensity that does not reach the device (object) 24, the effect control CPU 101 may be configured not to output a launch sound even if the launch ball detection designation command is received during the notification target period. Even when the foul ball detection switch 510a is turned on, the production control CPU 101 may not be configured to output a firing sound even when the firing ball detection designation command is received during the notification target period.

  The detection that the game ball has been launched is not limited to the detection by the launch confirmation switch 37b, and may be detected by, for example, a passage sensor (not shown) provided at the tip of the launch rail. If it can be confirmed that the game ball launched from the hitting ball launching device 550 has passed the passage sensor, the launch ball detection designation command is transmitted to the effect control CPU 101, and the effect control CPU 101 notifies the launch ball detection designation command to be notified. When received during the period, a sound is output as if the game ball has been fired in a period during which there is a possibility of winning the variable winning ball device (object) 24.

  Furthermore, in this embodiment, when a game ball is fired during a period in which there is a possibility of winning the variable winning ball device (object) 24, the production control CPU 101 outputs a firing sound to notify the player. explained. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the CPU 101 for effect control causes the effect display device 9 to display a character, display a comment, or provide an LED provided in the pachinko gaming machine 1 in addition to the sound effect such as the fired sound. Notification may be performed by turning it on. In addition, the CPU 101 for effect control may perform notification by appropriately combining sound effects such as fired sound, display on the effect display device 9, and lighting of the LED. In particular, as a configuration in which the LED is turned on for notification, for example, a rail tip LED 28a is provided at the tip portion of the launch rail, and a game that is launched in a period during which there is a chance of winning a prize in the variable winning ball device (object) 24 The configuration may be such that the rail tip LED 28a is lit in accordance with the timing at which the sphere passes the tip of the firing rail.

  In the present embodiment, when a game ball is launched in a winning possible period in which there is a possibility of winning in the variable winning ball apparatus (object) 24, a specific firing sound is generated (see FIG. 33). In this case, the detection output of the launch confirmation switch 37b was used to determine whether or not a game ball was fired. However, instead of the firing confirmation switch 37b, the detection output of the single firing confirmation switch 376 may be used. For example, when the player operates the single firing switch 37e and the operation signal is input to the main board 31, the main board 31 may transmit a command indicating that to the effect control board 80.

  Further, instead of notifying that the game ball has been fired during the winning period, it may be notified that it is the winning period. For example, when entering the notification target period shown in FIG. 33, control for outputting a specific sound effect is started, and when the notification target period ends, output of the sound effect is stopped. In this way, a sound effect is generated regardless of whether or not a game ball is fired during the winning period. Then, the player can be directed to fire the game ball during the winning period.

  However, when a predetermined condition is satisfied, it may be notified that it is a winning possible period. For example, if a firing operation is detected, it is notified that it is a winning period, but if a firing operation is not detected, such a notification should not be made even during a winning period. Can be considered. The presence / absence of the firing operation may be determined by, for example, determining whether or not the player is operating the hitting operation handle 5. Whether or not the hitting operation handle 5 is being operated may be determined using the detection output of the touch sensor 37d. When the determination is made using the detection output of the touch sensor 37d, it is not a shot ball detection command that specifies that a game ball has been shot from the ball hitting device 550, but that the touch sensor 37d has detected. You may provide separately the command (for example, launch operation designation | designated command) regarding launch operations, such as designating.

  Furthermore, in this embodiment, as a gaming machine that uses the functions of the first type gaming machine and the second type gaming machine in a single gaming machine, a lottery process inside the gaming machine Determines whether or not to display and display a big hit symbol, and when the winning symbol is displayed on the variable display device, it becomes a big hit gaming state or a small hit gaming state, and a variable winning ball that is released in the case of the small hit gaming state The configuration in which the special variable winning ball device 20 is opened again when the game ball passes through the specific area (V winning area) of the device (object) 24 has been described, but is not limited thereto. The configuration according to the present invention is a first type that controls to a specific gaming state advantageous to a player who opens a big winning opening when the display result of the variable display of identification information in the variable display device becomes a specific display result. It can be applied to other pachinko machines. In addition, when applied to the first type of pachinko gaming machine, it is a pachinko gaming machine equipped with a normal variable winning ball device which is a normal electric accessory, and the gaming state is controlled to the normal state (low base state). It is preferable to apply to a configuration in which when a normally variable winning ball apparatus is controlled to be in an open state, it is notified that a game ball has been fired in a period during which there is a possibility of winning the normal variable winning ball apparatus. It is.

  In addition, the configuration according to the present invention, for example, changes the variable winning ball apparatus from a closed state to an open state in a predetermined starting mode on condition that a gaming ball has entered a starting area (starting chucker) provided in the gaming area. Based on the fact that the game ball that has controlled and entered the variable prize ball device enters the specific entry area (V prize), the variable prize ball device is controlled to open in a specific manner that is more advantageous to the player than the starting mode. The present invention can be applied to the second type game machine. In addition, when applied to the second type pachinko gaming machine, the advantage of the big hit after passing the specific entry area (V winning area) in the variable winning ball apparatus (for example, 4R big hit or 16R big hit), or Depending on the advantage after the big hit (for example, whether or not a short time is given), the manner of notifying that a game ball has been fired in a period where there is a possibility of winning a variable winning ball device is different. It may be allowed. For example, when the jackpot advantage is 4R jackpot, the ratio of “Go” is high, and when it is 16R jackpot, the ratio of “hot” is easy to draw attention to the player. Of course, in the case of 16R big hit, the fired sound may be “hot” at a rate of 100%.

  Furthermore, when applied to the second type pachinko machine, when the winning sound is notified (after V winning) after notifying the firing sound, the advantage of the big hit after the V winning (for example, 4R big hit or 16R big hit), or the advantage after the big hit (for example, whether or not time is given) You may change the aspect which alert | reports having been fired. For example, when the advantage of the big hit after winning the V prize is 4R big hit, the ratio of “Go” is high, and in the case of 16R big hit after winning the V prize, the fired sound is “hot” that can easily draw attention to the player. The ratio is high. Of course, in the case of 16R big hit after winning V, the fired sound may be “hot” at a rate of 100%.

  In addition, when applied to the second type pachinko gaming machine, the variable winning ball apparatus is opened (for example, once for 1.5 seconds, once for 3.0 seconds, once for 3.0 seconds, or for 1.5 seconds). Depending on the short-opening 2 times, etc., the mode of notifying that the game ball has been fired during a period in which there is a possibility of winning the variable winning ball device may be changed. For example, when the release mode is one short release for 1.5 seconds, the firing sound is “Go”, and when the release mode is one long release for 3.0 seconds, the firing sound is “chance”. When the opening state of the variable winning ball apparatus is a plurality of times (for example, two short opening times of 1.5 seconds), the period from the opening timing of the first variable winning ball apparatus to the closing timing of the last variable winning ball apparatus, You may alert | report that the game ball was discharged in the period with a possibility of winning a prize to a variable winning ball apparatus. In addition, the period from the closing timing of the first variable winning ball device to the opening timing of the next variable winning ball device (the period during which the variable winning ball device is closed), the period during which there is a possibility of winning the variable winning ball device Even if a game ball is fired, it may not be notified.

  Furthermore, when applied to the second type pachinko gaming machine in which a plurality of start areas (starter chuckers) are provided in the game area, it is possible to win a variable winning ball apparatus according to the start area where the game ball has won. You may change the aspect which alert | reports that the game ball was discharged in a certain period. For example, for example, when winning in the first start area, the sound is “chance” up to 3 times, and when winning in the second start area, the sound is “hot” and up to 6 times.

  Furthermore, in this embodiment, when the control CPU 101 for effect control receives a fire ball detection designation command, it is detected that a game ball is being fired, and the effect control CPU 101 does not receive the fire ball detection specification command. It is detected that the launch of the game ball is stopped. Then, the production control CPU 101 outputs a firing sound when receiving a firing ball detection designation command during a notification target period in which there is a possibility of winning a prize to the variable winning ball device (object) 24, and stops the launch of the game ball. When the firing ball detection designation command cannot be received, the output of the firing sound is stopped. However, the production control CPU 101 may continue outputting the firing sound during the notification target period even if the launch of the game ball is stopped and the launch ball detection designation command cannot be received. It should be noted that the configuration for detecting the launch of the game ball and the configuration for detecting the stop of the launch of the game ball are not necessarily the same (for example, the launch confirmation switch 37b). May be detected by the launch confirmation switch 37b, and the detection that the launch of the game ball has been stopped may be detected by the touch sensor 37d. Specifically, the fact that the detection signal of the touch sensor 37d is input to the main board 31 via the handle relay board 37c, the payout relay board 37a, and the payout control board 37 is transmitted as a command to the effect control board 80. The The effect control board 80 determines that the launch of the game ball has started from the start of the detection signal rise (rise from L level to H level) based on the command, and the 0.6 second interval (see FIG. 33). Whether or not the game ball is being fired is recognized based on whether or not the detection signal is continuously at the H level. Of course, when recognizing whether or not the game ball is being fired based on the detection signal of the touch sensor 37d, the presentation control board 80 is not limited to the configuration of recognizing the game ball. It may be recognized mainly by the launch control board, the payout control board 37, the main board 31, and the like provided with the unit.

  Further, in this embodiment, when the game ball is fired during a period in which there is a possibility of winning the variable winning ball device (object) 24, the effect control CPU 101 outputs a firing sound and notifies it. As described above, it may be configured such that the player can set whether or not to notify the fire sound, select and set the type of fire sound to be output, and the like. The effect control CPU 101 allows the player to select and set to output and notify the firing sound when right-handed, and to output and notify the firing sound when left-handed. Also good.

  Further, in this embodiment, the game control microcomputer 560 displays a specific effect (for example, after a specific display result (a big hit symbol or a small hit symbol in this example) is derived and displayed as a display result of variable display of identification information. , Control for displaying a screen for notifying the occurrence of a big hit on the effect display device 9 (fanfare effect), control for displaying that the variable winning ball device (object) 24 is controlled to be in an open state, during the round Predetermined display execution means for executing display control (such as a display during a round). The variable display means (special symbol display in this example) is configured to display a specific display result when a predetermined effect is executed by the predetermined effect executing means. With such a configuration, the player can confirm the contents of the stop symbol during the big hit game or the small hit game.

  In this embodiment, the variable display means (in this example, the special symbol display) has a predetermined effect (for example, a control (fanfare effect) for displaying a screen for notifying the effect display device 9 of the occurrence of a big hit) When the variable winning ball apparatus (object) 24 is controlled to be in the open state, display control during the round (effect during round), etc. is executed, the specific display result is displayed. However, it may be configured not to be displayed. By configuring in this way, for example, it is possible to hide the big hit type and the small hit type specified by the type of the specific display result (stop symbol), and it is determined whether or not it is controlled to the short time state after the big hit game ends. Can be eliminated.

  Further, in this embodiment, a variable winning device (variable winning ball device in this example) that can be changed to a passable state (open state) in which a game medium can easily pass through the starting region (second starting winning port 14 in this example). 15) and an advantageous state control means capable of controlling in an advantageous state (in this example, a short time state (high base state)) in which the variable winning device is allowed to pass. The confirmation display means is configured to shorten the predetermined period when it is controlled to the advantageous state by the advantageous state control means, compared to when it is not controlled to the advantageous state. With such a configuration, when the gaming state is an advantageous state, variable display of the next identification symbol can be started early.

  In this embodiment, when the confirmation display means is controlled to the advantageous state (in this example, the time reduction state (high base state)), it is compared to the case where the confirmation display means is not controlled to the advantageous state regardless of the display result. The predetermined period is shortened. For example, when the display is in an advantageous state and the display result (stop symbol) is a specific display result (in this example, a big hit symbol or a small hit symbol), The predetermined period may be shortened.

  In this embodiment, the specific variable winning device (changeable to an enterable state (open state) in which a game medium can enter based on a predetermined display result (in this example, a small hit symbol) derived and displayed) A variable winning ball device (a combination) 24) is provided, and a specific gaming state (a big hit gaming state) is achieved based on the fact that a game medium has entered a specific area provided in the specific variable winning device (a V winning has occurred). Configured to control. The confirmation display means is configured to shorten the predetermined period when the display result of the variable display of the identification information is the predetermined display result, compared with the case where the display result is not the predetermined display result (for example, when the display information is a detachment symbol). Has been. With such a configuration, when the display result of the variable display of the identification information is a predetermined display result (in this example, a small hit symbol), the specific variable winning device (variable winning ball device (playing object) 24) is early. Can be controlled to a state (small hit gaming state) that changes to an enterable state (open state).

  In addition, when there are a plurality of types of small hit types with different advantages (for example, the number of rounds during the big hit game and the game state controlled after the big hit game), the V winning type depends on the small hit type. Thus, the special symbol stop symbol in the special symbol indicator is different. In this example, if the small hit type is “4R big hit when winning V”, “2” will be the special symbol stop symbol, and if “4R short bonus hit when V winning” is “4”, the special symbol will be stopped. In the case of “V prize winning 16R hour junior bonus”, “6” becomes a special symbol stop symbol.

  Further, when the small winning symbol is derived and displayed as the stopped symbol, the variable winning ball apparatus (a bonus item) 24 is controlled to be in an open state after the fixed display for a predetermined period, and the small winning game state is started. Then, when the accessory release time has elapsed, the variable winning ball device (object) 24 is controlled to be closed, and the small hit gaming state is ended.

  Here, if the stop symbol (small hit symbol) derived and displayed is long, the player confirms the small hit type from the stop symbol (small hit symbol). Only in a certain case, it is possible to fire a game ball toward the variable winning ball device (object) 24 (so-called shooting).

  Therefore, in this embodiment, by shortening the period for deterministic display of the stop symbol (small winning symbol) that has been derived and displayed, the variable winning ball apparatus (working instrument) 24 is controlled to an open state at an early stage, so-called sniper shooting. Prevents the capture by. That is, even if a game ball is fired toward the variable winning ball device (function) 24 after confirming the small hit type, the game ball is released early until the game ball reaches the variable winning ball device (function). The variable winning ball apparatus (object) 24 controlled to be controlled in the closed state is configured so as not to be awarded. By doing so, it is possible to prevent capture by so-called shooting.

  In order to prevent the so-called “shooting”, it is not limited to the one shown in the display time table shown in FIG. 21A. For example, when the big hit flag is set, and the small hit flag is set. Depending on the time, the shortened display time may be different (for example, shorter when the small hit flag is set) or shortened to the fixed display timer only when the small hit flag is set. The display time may be set. In addition, the small hit display time (small hit occurs) corresponding to the big hit display time set in the timer before opening the big winning opening in step S134 (for example, the time when the effect display device 9 notifies that the big hit has occurred). For example, when providing a time for notifying the effect display device 9), the big hit display time and the small hit display time may be different (for example, the small hit display time is shorter). .

  In addition, for the fixed display period, for example, when the stop symbol that is derived and displayed is a missing symbol, a small hit symbol, or a big hit symbol, different periods may be set, or the same lost symbol, Different periods may be set according to the gaming state (for example, the high base state and the low base state) for the small hit symbol and the big hit symbol.

  In addition, with respect to the above-described embodiment, a gaming machine (so-called first type gaming machine) that shifts to a jackpot gaming state based on a variable display result of a special symbol or an effect symbol, and a variable winning ball apparatus provided in the gaming area Combined with a gaming machine (so-called second type gaming machine) that shifts to a big hit gaming state based on the winning of a gaming ball (V winning) in a specific winning opening (V winning opening) in (so-called bonus) Although the gaming machine has been described, in the first type gaming machine and the second type gaming machine, when the stop symbol is a big hit symbol or a small hit symbol, it is a fixed display period compared to the case of a loss symbol May be configured to be shorter, or when the gaming state is in the short-time state, the fixed display period may be shorter than in the case of not being in the short-time state (in the normal state). .

  Note that the structure described in the above embodiment can also be applied to a game system called a so-called portable interlocking system. A gaming system called a mobile-linked system generally has a gaming machine that outputs predetermined information based on establishment of a predetermined condition, and a predetermined privilege for a player based on the predetermined information output by the gaming machine. A privilege granting device for performing the granting process.

  Specifically, in the gaming system as described above, the gaming machine has a predetermined condition such as the number of fluctuations, the number of jackpots, the so-called consecutive resort number (the number of jackpots during the probability variation state), the number of mission achievements, etc. It is stored as a history, and a two-dimensional code or the like is displayed as predetermined information at the end of the game. Further, the player uses a mobile terminal such as a mobile phone with a camera function to photograph the two-dimensional code displayed on the gaming machine and transmits it to a Web server (privilege granting device) on the Internet. Then, the Web server manages the game history of the player based on the received information, and performs a process of giving a predetermined privilege according to the game history. For example, as a predetermined privilege, the Web server transmits digital content such as image content and music content to the player's mobile terminal, or transmits a predetermined password to the player's mobile terminal and the player next time When a game is played, processing is performed so that the display screen of the gaming machine can be customized according to the player's preference.

  When the configuration shown in the above embodiment is applied to the game system as described above, for example, it is assumed that a predetermined condition is established that a V prize has occurred in the small hit game, and the number of times is determined by the game history on the Web server. As a management. Then, depending on the number of times the predetermined condition is satisfied, digital content may be transmitted as a predetermined privilege, or the display screen of the gaming machine may be customized.

  In the above-described embodiment, in order to notify the effect control microcomputer 100 of the change pattern indicating the change mode such as the change time, the type of reach effect, the presence / absence of the pseudo-ream, etc., 1 is used when the change is started. Although an example in which one variation pattern command is transmitted has been shown, the variation pattern may be notified to the effect control microcomputer 100 by two or more commands. Specifically, in the case of notifying by two commands, the game control microcomputer 560 uses the first command to indicate whether there is a pseudo-ream, a slip effect, etc. before reaching (so-called if not reach). A command indicating the variation time and variation mode before the second stop) is transmitted, and the second command has reached the reach such as the type of reach and presence / absence of re-lottery effect (if the reach is not reach, so-called first) You may make it transmit the command which shows the fluctuation | variation time and fluctuation | variation aspect (after 2 stop). In this case, the effect control microcomputer 100 may perform effect control in variable display based on the variable time derived from the combination of two commands. The game control microcomputer 560 notifies the change time by each of the two commands, and the effect control microcomputer 100 selects the specific change mode executed at each timing. It may be. When sending two commands, two commands may be sent within the same timer interrupt. After sending the first command, a certain period of time has passed (for example, the next timer interrupt). The second command may be transmitted. Note that the variation mode indicated by each command is not limited to this example, and the order of transmission can be appropriately changed. In this way, by notifying the variation pattern by two or more commands, the amount of data that must be stored as the variation pattern command can be reduced.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, “the ratio is different” is not limited to only those having different ratios such as A: B = 70%: 30% or A: B = 30%: 70%, 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).

  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. 5). 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 sound 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. Even in that case, the effect control microcomputer 100 performs the display control in accordance with the effect control command directly received from the game control microcomputer 560 in the above-described embodiment. Display control can be performed in accordance with commands received from the board 35 or the sound / lamp board.

  In the above embodiment, a pachinko machine is taken as an example of the gaming machine. However, according to the present invention, a predetermined number of bets are set by inserting medals, and a plurality of types are set according to the operation of the operation lever by the player. When the symbol is rotated and the symbol is stopped according to the stop button operation by the player, if the combination of the stop symbol becomes a specific symbol combination, it applies to a slot machine in which a predetermined number of medals are paid out to the player It is also possible.

  In the above embodiment, the game machine uses a game medium as an example. However, the game machine according to the present invention is not limited to a game machine that pays out a predetermined number of game media, and a game ball The present invention can also be applied to an enclosed game machine that encloses game media such as the above and gives a score when a prize granting condition is satisfied.

  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 preferably applied to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine in which a player can play a predetermined game.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Pachinko machine, 8a 1st special symbol display device, 8b 2nd special symbol display device, 9 production | presentation display apparatus, 13 1st start winning port, 14 2nd starting winning port, 18a 1st special symbol hold memory display part, 18b 2nd special symbol hold memory display section, 20 special variable winning ball device, 23 count switch, 24 variable winning ball device (object), 28 accessory winning switch, 28a rail tip LED, 29 V winning switch, 30 accessory Ejection switch, 31 Game control board (main board), 37b Launch confirmation switch, 56 CPU, 560 Game control microcomputer, 80 effect control board, 100 effect control microcomputer, 101 effect control CPU, 109 VDP.

Claims (2)

A gaming machine capable of playing games,
Launching means for launching game media;
A variable entry means game medium to a predetermined area is varied to permit entrance permitted ready entry,
An informing means for informing that the game medium has been launched in a period during which the predetermined area may be entered , and
The accessible state includes a first accessible state and a second accessible state that is easier to enter than the first accessible state,
The notifying means is a gaming machine capable of notifying in a different manner depending on whether the variable approach means changes to any one of the enterable states . Based on the fact that the predetermined display result is derived and displayed as a variable display result on the variable display means for controlling the progress of the game and performing variable display, it can be controlled to an advantageous state advantageous to the player, and the specific display as the variable display result When the result is derived and displayed, the variable entry means can be controlled to the enterable state, and can be controlled to an advantageous state based on the fact that the game medium has passed through a specific area provided in the predetermined area in the enterable state. Game control means,
When variable display results derived displayed in said variable display means, a predetermined time as a period until the start of control after at least variable display is finished, further the confirmation display means for confirming display the variable display results Prepared ,
The confirmation display means, when the variable display result is the specific display results, than when the variable display result is a predetermined display results, you shorten the time for confirming display the variable display results, according to claim 1 Gaming machine.

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