JP6437488B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

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

  Conventional gaming machines include a speaker (sound output unit) that can output sound, and a rotary switch (operation means) that can be operated to adjust the volume of sound output from the speaker. In some cases, the volume of the sound output from the speaker by the operation can be adjusted between “0” (silence setting) to “8”. Some of these gaming machines output a sample sound (specific sound) at the adjusted volume when the volume of the sound output from the speaker is adjusted by operating the rotary switch ( For example, see Patent Document 1).

JP 2004-105344 A

  However, in the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, when the mute setting is performed by operating the operation unit, a specific sound is not output, and thus it is difficult to recognize that the mute setting is being executed. is there.

  The present invention has been made paying attention to such problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can easily recognize that the mute setting is executed.

In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, a gaming machine according to claim 1 of the present invention provides:
A gaming machine capable of playing games (for example, pachinko gaming machine 1),
Electronic device including first input terminals (for example, terminals D0 to D7, terminals PI0 to PI4 in FIG. 25) and second input terminals (for example, terminals PI5 / XINT, terminals PI6 / XNMI, and terminals PI7 / RX0 in FIG. 25) (For example, CPU 9056 in FIG. 25);
A sound output unit (for example, speakers 8L and 8R) capable of outputting sound;
Volume setting means capable of setting the volume of the sound output from the sound output unit (for example, the portion where the effect control CPU 120 executes the game hall side volume change process and the player side volume change process);
When the volume is set by the volume setting unit, specific tone (e.g., volume alarm sound) can output specific sound output means (for example, effect control CPU120 is the volume notification processing in arcade volume change processing executed Part)
With
The second input terminal can be set to low active (for example, set to XINT at the terminal PI5 / XINT in FIG. 25) or high active (for example, set to PI5 at the terminal PI5 / XINT in FIG. 25). , When using a certain function, it is set to low active,
When the second input terminal is an empty terminal, the second input terminal is connected to a power supply line (for example, the predetermined voltage Vcc in FIG. 25),
When the first input terminal is an empty terminal, the first input terminal is connected to the ground (for example, the ground G in FIG. 25),
The volume setting means can set a reference volume (for example, “0” in FIG. 16B, “3” in FIG. 19) that serves as a reference for the volume of the sound output from the sound output unit,
The specific sound output means, the volume to be set when the volume other than the reference volume outputs the specific sound by sound volume corresponding to the volume to be set when it is set, the reference sound volume is set The specific sound is output at a volume higher than the corresponding volume (for example, as shown in FIG. 16B, the volume of the sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R by the operation of the volume change switch 300 is “0”. When the sound volume notification sound is changed to “3”, the sound volume notification sound is output from the speakers 8L and 8R at a volume of “9”. When the sound volume of FIG. The sound is output from the speakers 8L and 8R at a volume of “
According to this feature, since the reference volume can be easily recognized, the setting efficiency of the volume of the sound output from the sound output unit can be improved.
A gaming machine according to claim 2 of the present invention is the gaming machine according to claim 1,
Equipped with error sound output means that can output error sound when an error occurs,
The specific sound is not output when the error sound is output by the error sound output means.

The gaming machine of means 1 of the present invention is the gaming machine according to claim 1,
The volume setting means can set a mute setting that does not output a sound from the sound output unit (for example, a person related to a game shop operates a volume change switch 300 to output a volume of sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R). To change to "0"),
The specific sound output means outputs the specific sound even when the mute setting is set (for example, as shown in FIG. 16B, it is output from the speakers 8L and 8R by operating the volume change switch 300. When the sound volume is changed to “0”, the volume notification sound is output from the speakers 8L and 8R at a volume of “9”)
It is characterized by that.
According to this feature, it can be easily recognized that the mute setting is set.

The gaming machine of means 2 of the present invention is the gaming machine according to claim 1 or means 1,
The specific sound output means outputs a linguistic sound as the specific sound (for example, as shown in FIG. 16B, a part that outputs a volume notification sound as a linguistic sound).
It is characterized by that.
According to this feature, it can be more easily recognized that the mute setting is set.

The gaming machine of means 3 of the present invention is the gaming machine according to any one of claim 1, means 1, and means 2,
Provided with at least detection means (for example, volume adjustment buttons 41 and 42) capable of detecting the player's action,
The volume setting means can cancel the mute setting based on the detection result by the detection means (for example, the volume control buttons 41 and 42 are operated by the effect control CPU 120 in the player side volume change process). If it is determined (Y in S101) and it is determined that the channel in which the volume change switch is set is “0” (the channel corresponding to the volume “0”) (Y in S102), the speakers 8L and 8R (Change the volume of the output sound to “1”)
It is characterized by that.
According to this feature, since the player can cancel the mute setting, the interest of the game can be improved.

The gaming machine of means 4 of the present invention is the gaming machine according to any one of claims 1, means 1 to means 3,
The specific sound is output from the sound output unit (for example, the volume notification sound is output from the speakers 8L and 8R).
It is characterized by that.
According to this feature, the location where the specific sound is output can be specified, so that the volume of the sound output from the sound output unit can be set without being confused by sounds other than the surrounding specific sound.

The gaming machine of means 5 of the present invention is the gaming machine according to any one of claims 1, means 1 to means 4,
Provided with display means (for example, effect display device 5) capable of displaying an image;
The display means can display that the mute setting is set (for example, the mute setting display is displayed in the upper right portion of the effect display device 5 by the effect control CPU 120 executing S95 in the game hall side volume changing process. The part that starts displaying)
It is characterized by that.
According to this feature, it can be more easily recognized that the mute setting is set.

A gaming machine according to means 6 of the present invention is the gaming machine according to any one of claims 1, means 1 to means 5,
A notification means capable of notifying that the mute setting is set in a mode different from the specific sound is provided (for example, as shown in FIG. 16B, from the speakers 8L and 8R by operating the volume change switch 300). When the volume of the output sound is changed to “0”, the game effect LED 9 is lit in red)
It is characterized by that.
According to this feature, it can be more easily recognized that the mute setting is set by the specific sound and the notification means.

  Moreover, the form which implements the invention mentioned later includes the invention which concerns on the following means A1-A5. Conventionally, as a gaming machine, an interrupt input terminal (INT, MNI) for starting interrupt processing as shown in JP 2011-189178 A is provided, and interrupt processing is not used. This interrupt input terminal (INT, MNI) is pulled up to the power supply (+ 5V), and even if a noise or the like occurs in the interrupt input terminal, a gaming machine that prevents the occurrence of the interrupt from being erroneously detected Are known. However, when a different configuration is used for each model, it may be possible to increase manufacturing costs and design efforts. In view of this point, it is required to improve versatility among different models of electronic devices having a plurality of input terminals such as a CPU.

The gaming machine of the means A1 (for example, the pachinko gaming machine 901 in FIG. 20) is characterized by adopting the following configuration.
Electronic device including first input terminals (for example, terminals D0 to D7, terminals PI0 to PI4 in FIG. 25) and second input terminals (for example, terminals PI5 / XINT, terminals PI6 / XNMI, and terminals PI7 / RX0 in FIG. 25) (For example, CPU 9056 in FIG. 25)
The second input terminal can be set to low active (for example, set to XINT at the terminal PI5 / XINT in FIG. 25) or high active (for example, set to PI5 at the terminal PI5 / XINT in FIG. 25). , When using a certain function, it is set to low active,
When the second input terminal is an empty terminal, the second input terminal is connected to a power supply line (for example, the predetermined voltage Vcc in FIG. 25),
When the first input terminal is an empty terminal, the first input terminal is connected to a ground (for example, the ground G in FIG. 25).

  One feature of the gaming machine according to means A1 is that an electronic device having a plurality of input terminals is provided with a second input terminal that can use different functions. With such a configuration, when the electronic device is used in the model A, it is set to be active high, and when the electronic device is used in the model B, it is set to be low active to use a predetermined function. It is possible to improve versatility between models with a small number of input terminals. In addition, since the number of input terminals can be reduced, the electronic device can be downsized. In addition, when the second input terminal is not used, the terminal is connected to a relatively stable power line, so that even if a predetermined function is mistakenly set to the second input terminal that is not used, the second input terminal is inadvertently specified. Execution of the function is suppressed.

Furthermore, the gaming machine according to means A2 is the gaming machine according to said means A1,
A plurality of the second input terminals (for example, a terminal PI5 / XINT, a terminal PI6 / XNMI, and a terminal PI7 / RX0 in FIG. 25) are provided, and the plurality of second input terminals are adjacent to each other.

  According to the gaming machine according to means A2, when a plurality of second input terminals are provided, the second input terminals that are vacant terminals can be collectively connected to the power supply line by adjoining the second input terminals in the electronic device. It becomes possible. Therefore, it is possible to simplify the wiring layout of the board on which the electronic device is installed. As a result, the reference potential can be stabilized by adopting a layout that allows a large solid area of the ground (ground electrode) of the board. It is possible to improve resistance to external noise.

The gaming machine according to means A3 is the gaming machine according to means A1 or means A2,
The electronic device is a CPU (for example, a CPU 9056 in FIG. 25).

  According to the gaming machine according to the means A3, by providing versatility to a relatively expensive CPU among the components in the gaming machine, it is advantageous in terms of the effect of reducing costs and reducing the design effort.

A gaming machine according to means A4 is a gaming machine according to any one of the means A1 to A3.
The predetermined function is an interrupt process.

  According to the gaming machine according to the means A4, the interrupt processing that also causes malfunction of the gaming machine is inadvertently performed by connecting the second input terminal, which is an empty terminal, to the relatively stable power line. It is suppressed.

A gaming machine according to means A5 is a gaming machine according to any one of the means A1 to A3.
A plurality of the second input terminals are provided, and a predetermined function of each of the second input terminals is a different interrupt process.

  According to the gaming machine according to means A5, by setting different interrupt processing for a plurality of second input terminals, each second input terminal has a different function, and the versatility of the electronic device is improved. Can be achieved.

It is the front view which looked at the pachinko gaming machine from the front. It is a block diagram which shows the example of an internal structure when a pachinko game machine is seen from the back. It is a figure which shows a volume change switch. It is a block diagram which shows the example of various control boards etc. which were mounted in the pachinko gaming machine. It is a figure which shows an example of the main control commands. It is a figure which illustrates a fluctuation pattern. It is explanatory drawing which shows a display result determination table. (A) is a figure which shows the structural example of a jackpot classification determination table, (B) is a figure which shows the contents of various jackpots. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the timer interruption process for game control. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a special symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of production control main processing. It is a flowchart which shows an example of production control process processing. It is a flowchart which shows an example of an open | release monitoring process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a game hall side volume change process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a player side volume change process. (A) is a timing chart which shows the output timing of an error sound and a volume notification sound, (B) is a figure which shows the volume notification sound and game effect LED aspect accompanying the channel change of a volume change switch. It is a figure which shows the display mode of an effect display apparatus when a volume adjustment button is operated. It is a figure which shows the display mode of the effect display apparatus at the time of the volume adjustment button in the modification 1 being operated. It is a figure which shows the volume alert sound and game effect LED aspect accompanying the channel change of the volume change switch in the modification 2. It is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine. It is a front view which shows the front surface of the game board in the state which removed the glass door frame. It is the rear view which looked at the pachinko game machine from the back. It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structural example of a game control board (main board). It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structural example of a payout control board. It is a block diagram which shows the example of 1 structure around CPU. It is explanatory drawing which shows allocation of an input terminal. It is a flowchart which shows the main process which CPU in a main board | substrate performs. It is a flowchart which shows a 2 ms timer interruption process.

  A mode for carrying out a gaming machine according to the present invention will be described below based on examples.

  First, the overall configuration of a pachinko gaming machine 1 that is an example of a gaming machine will be described. In the following description, the front side of FIG. 1 will be described as the front (front, front) side of the pachinko gaming machine 1, and the back side will be described as the rear (back) side. In the present embodiment, the front surface of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is an opposing surface that faces the player when the pachinko gaming machine 1 is viewed from the player side. In the description of each step of the flowchart, for example, a portion described as “step S1” may be abbreviated as “S1”. In this embodiment, “execution” and “execution” are synonymous.

  FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment and shows an arrangement layout of main members. The pachinko gaming machine 1 (hereinafter sometimes abbreviated as a gaming machine) is roughly divided into a gaming board 2 (gauge board) that constitutes a gaming board surface, and a gaming machine frame 3 (base frame) that supports and fixes the gaming board 2. ). The game board 2 is formed with a substantially circular game area surrounded by guide rails. In the game area, a game ball is launched from a ball striking device and is shot. Further, the gaming machine frame 3 is provided with a glass door frame 50 having a glass window 50a so as to be rotatable around the left side, and the gaming area can be opened and closed by the glass door frame 50. When the door frame 50 is closed, the game area can be seen through the glass window 50a.

  A first special symbol display 4A and a second special symbol display 4B are provided at a predetermined position of the game board 2 (in the example shown in FIG. 1, on the right side of the game area). Each of the first special symbol display 4A and the second special symbol display 4B is composed of, for example, 7-segment or dot matrix LEDs (light-emitting diodes). Special symbols (also referred to as “special graphics”), which are a plurality of types of identification information (special identification information) that can be identified, are displayed so as to be variable (also referred to as variable display or variable display). For example, the first special symbol display 4A and the second special symbol display 4B each variably display a plurality of types of special symbols composed of numbers indicating "0" to "9", symbols indicating "-", and the like. To do. The special symbols displayed on the first special symbol display 4A and the second special symbol display 4B are composed of numbers indicating "0" to "9", symbols indicating "-", and the like. For example, a plurality of types of lighting patterns in which the combination of the one to be turned on and the one to be turned off are different as long as they are set in advance as a plurality of types of special symbols. Hereinafter, the special symbol variably displayed on the first special symbol display 4A is also referred to as "first special symbol", and the special symbol variably displayed on the second special symbol indicator 4B is "second special symbol". Also called. Both the first special symbol display 4A and the second special symbol display 4B are formed in a square shape, for example. Note that the type of the first special figure and the type of the second special figure may be the same (for example, both a number indicating “0” to “9” and a symbol indicating “−”). May be different. Further, each of the first special symbol display 4A and the second special symbol display 4B may be configured to variably display numbers (or two-digit symbols) indicating, for example, “00” to “99”. In addition, each segment indicating “00” to “99” may be configured to variably display “00” to “99” with a display device that is randomly arranged in an invisible manner.

  An effect display device 5 is provided near the center of the game area of the game board 2. The effect display device 5 is composed of, for example, an LCD (liquid crystal display device) or the like, and forms a display area for displaying various effect images. In the display area of the effect display device 5, for example, there are three corresponding to the variable display of the first special symbol by the first special symbol display 4A and the variable display of the second special symbol by the second special symbol display 4B. In the effect symbol display area serving as a plurality of variable display parts, the effect symbols (also referred to as decorative symbols), which are a plurality of types of identification information (decoration identification information) that can be identified, are variably displayed. This variation display of the effect symbol is also included in the variation display game. As an example, in the display area of the effect display device 5, “left”, “middle”, and “right” effect symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R are arranged. Then, in response to the start of one of the variation of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display 4A and the variation of the second special symbol on the second special symbol display 4B, “Left Variation of the effect symbols (for example, scroll display in the vertical direction) is started in each of the effect symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R of “middle” and “right”. Thereafter, in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” effect symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R of the effect display device 5, the confirmed effect symbols (final stop symbols) are stopped and displayed. As described above, in the display area of the effect display device 5, the special game using the first special figure on the first special symbol display 4A or the second special figure on the second special symbol display 4B is used. In synchronism with the special figure game, a plurality of types of effect symbols that can be identified are displayed in a variable manner, and a definite effect symbol is derived and displayed (or simply referred to as “derivation”). Note that the variable display may be temporarily stopped during the dynamic display of the effect symbol.

  For example, eight kinds of symbols (alphanumeric characters “1” to “8” or Chinese characters) are displayed in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” effect symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R. It may be any combination of numbers, English letters, eight character images related to a predetermined motif, a combination of numbers, letters, symbols, and character images. Character images may be, for example, people, animals, other objects, or , A decorative image showing a symbol such as a character or other arbitrary figure). A corresponding symbol number is attached to each of the effect symbols. For example, symbol numbers “1” to “8” are assigned to alphanumeric characters indicating “1” to “8”, respectively. The production symbols are not limited to eight types, and any number may be used as long as an appropriate number of combinations such as a combination of “big hit” and a combination of “out of” can be configured (for example, seven types or 9 types). From the start of the variation display of the effect symbols, until the finalized effect symbols are derived and displayed, the “left”, “middle”, and “right” effect symbol display areas 5L, 5C, 5R, or the effect symbols In at least one of the display areas 5L, 5C, 5R (for example, the “left” effect symbol display area 5L, etc.), for example, the symbols are sequentially flowed from the top to the bottom from the smallest to the largest. When the effect display with the maximum symbol number (for example, “8”) is displayed, the effect symbol with the minimum symbol number (for example, “1”) is displayed.

  A first reserved memory display area 5D and a second reserved memory display area 5U are set in two places on the left and right of the display area of the effect display device 5. In the first hold memory display area 5D and the second hold memory display area 5U, the hold memory display for displaying the variable hold memory number (the special figure hold memory number) corresponding to the special figure game is specified. Here, the suspension of the variable display corresponding to the special game is that the game ball passes through the first start winning opening formed by the normal winning ball apparatus 6A and the second starting winning opening formed by the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B. Generated based on the start winning by entering (entering). In other words, the start condition (also referred to as “execution condition”) for executing the variable display game such as the special figure game or the variable display of the effect symbol is established, but the variable display game based on the start condition established previously is being executed. When the start condition for allowing the start of the variable display game is not satisfied due to the fact that the pachinko gaming machine 1 is controlled to the big hit gaming state, the variable display corresponding to the established start condition is suspended. Done. In this embodiment, the stored storage display generated based on the start winning when the game ball passes (enters) the first start winning opening is a round white display, and the game ball passes through the second starting winning opening ( The on-hold storage display generated based on the start winning due to the entry is a round blue display. In the following description, the display in the first hold storage display area 5D and the second hold storage display area 5U may be collectively referred to as hold display. In the example shown in FIG. 1, the first hold for displaying the number of special figure hold memories in an identifiable manner on the upper and lower parts of the first special symbol display 4A and the second special symbol display 4B together with the hold storage display area. A display 25A and a second hold display 25B are provided. The first hold indicator 25A displays the first special figure hold memory number so that it can be specified. The second hold indicator 25B displays the second special figure hold memory number so that it can be specified. The variable display holding memory number obtained by adding the first special figure holding memory number and the second special figure holding memory number is also referred to as a total holding memory number.

  Below the effect display device 5, an ordinary winning ball device 6A and an ordinary variable winning ball device 6B are provided. The normal winning ball device 6A forms a first start winning opening that is always kept in a certain open state by a predetermined ball receiving member, for example. The normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B has an electric motor having a pair of movable wing pieces that are changed into a normal open state as a vertical position and an expanded open state as a tilt position by a solenoid 81 for a normal electric accessory shown in FIG. A tulip-shaped accessory (ordinary electric accessory) is provided to form a second start winning opening. As an example, in the normally variable winning ball apparatus 6B, the movable wing piece is in the vertical position when the solenoid 81 for the normal electric accessory is in the OFF state, so that the game ball passes (enters) the second starting winning opening. It is difficult to open normally. On the other hand, in the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B, the game ball passes through the second start winning opening by the tilt control in which the movable blade piece is tilted when the solenoid 81 for the normal electric accessory is in the ON state ( It will be in an expanded open state that is easy to enter. In the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B, although the game ball can enter the second start winning opening even when in the normal open state, there is a possibility that the game ball may enter more than in the expanded open state. You may comprise so that it may become low. Alternatively, the normally variable winning ball apparatus 6B may be configured such that the game ball does not enter the second starting winning opening by, for example, closing the second starting winning opening in the normally open state. In this way, the second start winning opening is changed between an expanded open state in which game balls easily pass (enter) and a normal open state in which game balls hardly pass (enter) or cannot pass (enter). A game ball that has passed (entered) the first start winning opening formed in the normal winning ball apparatus 6A is detected by, for example, a first start opening switch 22A shown in FIG. The game ball that has passed (entered) the second start winning opening formed in the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B is detected by, for example, the second start opening switch 22B shown in FIG. Based on the detection of the game ball by the first start port switch 22A, a predetermined number (for example, three) of game balls are paid out as prize balls, and the first special figure holding memory number is set to a predetermined upper limit value (for example, “ 4 "), the first start condition is satisfied. Based on the detection of the game ball by the second start port 22B, a predetermined number (for example, three) of game balls are paid out as prize balls, and the second special figure holding memory number is set to a predetermined upper limit value (for example, “ 4 "), the second start condition is satisfied. The number of prize balls to be paid out based on the detection of the game ball by the first start port switch 22A and the number of prize balls to be paid out based on the detection of the game ball by the second start port switch 22B. May be the same number or different numbers.

  A special variable winning ball device 7 is provided below the normal winning ball device 6A and the ordinary variable winning ball device 6B. The special variable winning ball apparatus 7 includes a large winning opening door that is opened and closed by a solenoid 82 for the large winning opening shown in FIG. 2, and a predetermined region that is changed between an open state and a closed state by the large winning opening door. As a big prize opening. As an example, in the special variable winning ball apparatus 7, when the solenoid 82 for the special prize opening door is in the OFF state, the special prize opening door closes the big winning prize opening, and the game ball passes (enters) the big winning prize opening. Make it impossible. On the other hand, in the special variable winning ball apparatus 7, when the solenoid 82 for the big prize opening door is in the ON state, the big winning opening door opens the big winning opening and the game ball passes through the big winning opening (entrance). ). As described above, the special winning opening changes into an open state in which a game ball easily passes (enters) and is advantageous to the player, and a closed state in which the game ball cannot pass (enters) and is disadvantageous to the player. Instead of the closed state where the game ball cannot pass (enter) through the big prize opening, or in addition to the closed state, a partially opened state where the game ball hardly passes (enters) through the big prize opening may be provided. The game ball that has passed (entered) through the big prize opening is detected by, for example, the count switch 23 shown in FIG. Based on the detection of game balls by the count switch 23, a predetermined number (for example, 15) of game balls are paid out as prize balls. Thus, when the game ball passes (enters) through the big winning opening of the special variable winning ball apparatus 7 that has been opened, the gaming ball passes through other winning openings (for example, the first starting winning opening and the second starting winning opening). More prize balls are paid out than when passing (entering). Therefore, if the special winning opening of the special variable winning ball apparatus 7 is in the open state, the game ball can enter the special winning opening, which is a first state advantageous to the player. On the other hand, if the special winning opening of the special variable winning ball apparatus 7 is closed, it becomes impossible or difficult for the player to get a winning ball by passing (entering) the gaming ball to the special winning opening. This is a disadvantageous second state.

  A normal symbol display 20 is provided at a predetermined position of the game board 2 (on the left side of the game area in the example shown in FIG. 1). As an example, the normal symbol display 20 is composed of 7 segments, dot matrix LEDs, and the like, like the first special symbol display 4A and the second special symbol display 4B, and a plurality of types of identification information different from the special symbols. Is displayed (variable display) so that it can be variably displayed. Such a normal symbol variation display is referred to as a general game (also referred to as a “normal game”). Above the normal symbol display 20, a universal figure holding display 25 </ b> C is provided. The general-purpose hold indicator 25C includes, for example, four LEDs, and displays the general-purpose hold storage number as the number of effective passing balls that have passed through the passing gate 51. In addition to the above-described configuration, the surface of the game board 2 is provided with a windmill for changing the flow direction and speed of the game ball and a number of obstacle nails. In addition, as a winning opening different from the first starting winning opening, the second starting winning opening, and the large winning opening, for example, a single or plural general winning openings that are always kept in a certain open state by a predetermined ball receiving member are provided. May be. In this case, a predetermined number (for example, 10) of game balls may be paid out as a prize ball based on the fact that a game ball that has entered one of the general prize openings is detected by a predetermined general prize ball switch. In the lowermost part of the game area, there is provided an out port through which game balls that have not entered any winning port are taken.

  Speakers 8L and 8R for reproducing and outputting sound effects and the like are provided at the upper left and right positions of the gaming machine frame 3, and a game effect LED 9 is provided at the periphery of the game area. In the lower right position of the gaming machine frame 3, a hitting operation handle (operation knob) operated by a player or the like for launching a game ball toward the game area is provided. For example, the hitting operation handle adjusts the resilience of the game ball according to the operation amount (rotation amount) by the player or the like. The hitting operation handle only needs to be provided with a single shot switch or a touch ring (touch sensor) for stopping the driving of a shooting motor included in the hitting ball shooting device. At a predetermined position of the gaming machine frame 3 below the gaming area, an upper plate that holds (stores) game balls paid out as prize balls or game balls paid out by lending so as to be supplied to a ball hitting device. (Hit ball supply tray) is provided. Below the gaming machine frame 3, there is provided a lower plate that holds (stores) surplus balls overflowing from the upper plate so as to be discharged to the outside of the pachinko gaming machine 1.

  In addition, the volume forming buttons 41 and 42 for adjusting the volume output from the speakers 8L and 8R are provided on the member forming the upper plate. The volume adjustment buttons 41 and 42 are arranged side by side on the left and right. When the volume adjustment button 41 arranged on the right side is pressed after the pachinko gaming machine 1 is activated, the volume output from the speakers 8L and 8R increases. When the volume adjustment button 42 disposed on the left side is pressed, the volume output from the speakers 8L and 8R decreases. By operating the volume adjustment buttons 41 and 42, the volume of the sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R can be appropriately adjusted between “1” and “9”. A button switch unit 43 (see FIG. 4) for detecting a pressing operation on the volume adjustment buttons 41 and 42 is provided in a position corresponding to the volume adjustment buttons 41 and 42 inside the member forming the upper plate. It only has to be done. The button switch unit 43 includes a transmission type photosensor corresponding to the volume adjustment button 41 and a transmission type photosensor corresponding to the volume adjustment button 42, and which volume adjustment button is pressed by these transmission type photosensors. What is necessary is just to be able to detect whether it was operated.

  The pachinko gaming machine 1 is equipped with various sensors such as a main board 11, an effect control board 12, an audio control board 13, and an LED control board 14 as shown in FIG. ing. The pachinko gaming machine 1 is also equipped with a relay board 15 for relaying various control signals transmitted between the main board 11 and the effect control board 12. In addition, various boards such as a payout control board, an information terminal board, a launch control board, an interface board, and a power supply board are disposed on the back surface of the game board 2 and the like. The main board 11 is a main-side control board on which various circuits for controlling the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1 are mounted. The main board 11 is a sub-side control board mainly composed of a random number setting function used in a special figure game, a function that allows an output signal from a switch or the like disposed at a predetermined position to be input, and an effect control board 12 Are provided with a function of outputting and transmitting a control command as an example of command information as a control signal, a function of outputting various information to the outside, and the like. In addition, the main board 11 performs on / off control of each LED (for example, segment LED) constituting the first special symbol display 4A and the second special symbol display 4B, and thereby the first special diagram and the second special diagram. The display of fluctuation of a predetermined display pattern such as controlling the fluctuation display of the normal symbol display 20 or controlling the fluctuation display of the normal symbol by the normal symbol display 20 by controlling the lighting / extinguishing / coloring control of the normal symbol display 20 is performed. It also has a function to control.

  The main board 11 includes, for example, a game control microcomputer 100, a switch circuit 110 that receives detection signals from various switches for game ball detection and transmits the detection signals to the game control microcomputer 100, and the game control microcomputer 100. A solenoid circuit 111 for transmitting a solenoid drive signal to the solenoids 81 and 82 is mounted. The effect control board 12 is a sub-side control board independent of the main board 11, receives the control signal transmitted from the main board 11 via the relay board 15, and produces the effect display device 5, speakers 8L, 8R. In addition, various circuits for controlling the production operation by the production electrical parts such as the game effect LED 9 are mounted. That is, the effect control board 12 is used for effects such as the display operation of the effect display device 5, all or part of the sound output operation from the speakers 8L and 8R, and all or part of the on / off operation of the game effect LED 9 and the like. A function of determining the control content for causing the electrical component to execute a predetermined performance operation is provided. The sound control board 13 is a control board for sound output control provided separately from the effect control board 12, and based on commands from the effect control board 12, control data (sound number, volume level, etc.), etc. A processing circuit for executing audio signal processing for outputting audio from 8L and 8R is mounted. The LED control board 14 is a control board for LED output control provided separately from the effect control board 12, and the game effect LED 9 and the like are turned on / off based on commands and control data from the effect control board 12. An LED driver circuit or the like is mounted. The opening detection sensor 60 is a sensor for detecting that the glass door frame 50 and the gaming machine frame 3 are opened.

  As shown in FIG. 4, wiring for transmitting detection signals from the gate switch 21, the first start port switch 22 </ b> A, the second start port switch 22 </ b> B, and the count switch 23 is connected to the main board 11. Note that the gate switch 21, the first start port switch 22A, the second start port switch 22B, and the count switch 23 may have any configuration that can detect a game ball, such as a sensor. That's fine. Further, the main board 11 includes a first special symbol display 4A, a second special symbol display 4B, a normal symbol display 20, a first hold indicator 25A, a second hold indicator 25B, and a general figure hold indicator 25C. Wiring for transmitting a command signal for performing display control such as is connected. A control signal transmitted from the main board 11 toward the effect control board 12 is relayed by the relay board 15. The control command transmitted from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12 via the relay board 15 is, for example, an effect control command transmitted and received as an electric signal. FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the contents of the effect control command used in the present embodiment. The effect control command has, for example, a 2-byte structure, and the first byte indicates MODE (command classification), and the second byte indicates EXT (command type). The command form shown in FIG. 5 is an example, and other command forms may be used. Here, XXH indicates an unspecified hexadecimal number and may be a value corresponding to the instruction content by the effect control command.

  The game control microcomputer 100 mounted on the main board 11 is, for example, a one-chip microcomputer, and includes a ROM 101 (Read Only Memory 101) for storing a game control program, fixed data, and the like, and a game control work. A RAM 102 (Random Access Memory 102) that provides an area, a CPU 103 (Central Processing Unit 103) that executes a control program by executing a game control program, and updates numeric data indicating a random number value independently of the CPU 103 It comprises a random number circuit 104 that performs and an I / O 105 (Input / Outputport 105). As an example, in the game control microcomputer 100, various processes for controlling the progress of the game are executed by the CPU 103 executing the program read from the ROM 101.

  In the main board 11, various random number values such as a random value MR1 for determining a special figure display result, a random value MR2 for determining a jackpot type, a random value MR3 for determining a variation pattern, a random value MR4 for determining a normal figure display result, etc. Numerical data is controlled to be countable. The random number circuit 104 only needs to be able to count numerical data indicating some or all of these random number values MR1 to MR4. For the random number values that are not counted by the random number circuit 104, the CPU 103 performs various types of software by software. It is only necessary to count by updating the numerical data. FIG. 6 shows the variation pattern of the present embodiment. In this embodiment, a plurality of variation patterns as shown in FIG. 6 are prepared in advance. Specifically, in the present embodiment, among the cases where the variation display result is “out of”, corresponding to each of the case where the variation display mode of the production symbol is “non-reach” and “reach”, A plurality of variation patterns are prepared in advance in response to a case where the variation display result is “big hit”. In the variation pattern of this embodiment, the big hit expectation is higher as the variation time is longer.

  In addition to the game control program, the ROM 101 provided in the game control microcomputer 100 shown in FIG. 4 stores various selection data and table data used for controlling the progress of the game. . For example, the ROM 101 stores data constituting a plurality of determination tables and setting tables prepared in advance for the CPU 103 to perform various determinations, determinations, and settings. Further, the ROM 101 stores a plurality of types of table data constituting a plurality of command tables used for the CPU 103 to transmit control signals serving as various control commands from the main board 11, and a variation pattern as shown in FIG. Table data constituting a variation pattern table to be stored is stored. FIG. 7 shows a configuration example of a display result determination table stored in the ROM 101. In this embodiment, a common display result determination table is used for the first special figure and the second special figure as the display result determination table. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the first special figure is not limited thereto. Separate display result determination tables may be used for the second special figure.

  In the display result determination table, before the fixed special symbol is derived and displayed in the special symbol game of the first special symbol display 4A or the second special symbol display 4B, the variation display result is set to the big hit gaming state. It is a table referred to in order to determine whether to control based on random number value MR1. In the display result determination table of the present embodiment, a numerical value (compared to the random value MR1 depending on whether the gaming state is the normal state, the short time state (low probability state), or the probability variation state (high probability state) ( (Judgment value) is assigned to the special figure display result of “big hit” or “out of place”. In the display result determination table, determination data is assigned to a determination result as to whether or not to control the big hit gaming state with the special figure display result as “big hit”. Specifically, in the present embodiment, when the gaming state is the probability variation state (high probability state), more judgment values than the normal state or the short time state (low probability state) are characteristic of “big hit”. Assigned to diagram display results. With this, in the probability variation state (high probability state) in which probability variation control is performed, the probability that the special figure display result will be determined to be “big hit” and controlled to the big hit gaming state in the normal state or the short time state (low probability state) Compared to (about 1/300 in the present embodiment), the probability that the special figure display result is determined to be “big hit” and controlled to the big hit gaming state becomes higher (about 1/30 in the present embodiment). That is, in the display result determination table, when the gaming state is a probability change state (high probability state), the probability that it is determined to control to the big hit gaming state is higher than when the gaming state is a normal state or a short time state. The determination data is assigned to the determination result of whether or not to control the big hit gaming state.

  In the ROM 101, when it is determined to control the jackpot gaming state, the jackpot type determination table referred to for determining one of a plurality of jackpot types based on the random number value MR2 and the random value MR3 are stored. A variation pattern determination table for determining the variation pattern as one of the variation patterns shown in FIG. 6 is also stored. In the setting example shown in FIG. 8A, the judgment values for the big hit types of “probable big hit A” and “probable big hit B” depending on whether the fluctuation special chart is the first special figure or the second special figure. The assignment of is different. That is, when the fluctuation special chart is the second special figure, there is no allocation to the big hit type of “probability big hit B” with a small number of rounds, and “probability big hit B” does not occur in the fluctuation display of the second special figure. Therefore, the number of prize balls obtained is small in the gaming state in which the game balls are likely to enter the second starting prize opening formed by the normally variable prize-winning ball apparatus 6B by the high opening control accompanying the time reduction control. "Can be prevented from occurring frequently, resulting in a decrease in entertainment interest. Note that the setting example shown in FIG. 6 (A) is merely an example, and a jackpot type other than that shown in FIG. 6 (A) may be provided. What is necessary is just to set suitably.

  The variation pattern determination table stored in the ROM 101 is preliminarily determined to be “out of” with the variation pattern determination table for jackpot used when “big hit” is determined in advance. A variation pattern determination table for loss that is sometimes used is prepared in advance. In the present embodiment, the reach fluctuation pattern is more easily determined when the big hit is made than the loss, and the possibility (reliability or expectation) of the big hit is higher when the reach occurs. In addition, even if the fluctuation pattern of the same reach, super reach is more likely to be a big hit (reliability and expectation) than normal reach, the fluctuation pattern of super reach β even if the same super reach However, the determination value corresponding to each variation pattern is set in the variation pattern determination table for deviation from the variation pattern determination table for big hits so that the probability (reliability and expectation) of the probability variation big hit becomes high. The variation pattern determination table for loss includes a plurality of tables corresponding to the total number of reserved memories and the short time state, and the total number of reserved memories corresponds to 2 to 4 according to the number of reserved memories and the short time state. Short non-reach shift variation pattern (PA1-2), short non-reach shift variation pattern (PA1-3) corresponding to a total number of pending storages of 5 to 8, and short non-reach shift variation pattern By determining (PA1-4) according to the total number of reserved memories and the gaming state (short time state), the larger the total number of reserved memories, the easier the short variation pattern is executed, that is, the fluctuation per unit time By increasing the number of times, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of useless start winnings, and during non-time control (during short-time state), the non-reach deviation of the shortening changes more than when the time control is not executed. Pattern (PA1-4) that is often determined by increasing the number of times of the change per unit time, can reduce the time to the next jackpot, and to be able to improve the extended game player's sense of.

  The RAM 102 provided in the game control microcomputer 100 shown in FIG. 4 may be a backup RAM that is partially or entirely backed up by a backup power source from a predetermined power supply board. That is, even if the power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 1 is stopped, a part or all of the contents of the RAM 102 is stored for a predetermined period (until the capacitor as the backup power supply is discharged and the backup power supply cannot be supplied). When the power is turned on again, the game state, that is, data corresponding to the control state of the game control means (special process flag, etc.) and data indicating the progress state of the game such as data indicating the number of unpaid prize balls are taken over. do it. In such a RAM 102, a game control data holding area (not shown) is provided as an area for holding various data used for controlling the progress of the game. In the game control data holding area, a first winning prize (first starting prize) is generated by a game ball passing (entering) through a first starting prize opening formed by the normal winning ball apparatus 6A, but has not started yet. The first special figure storage unit for storing the random number value MR1, the random number value MR2, the numerical data indicating the random number value MR3, and the like and the ordinary variable winning ball apparatus 6B are formed as the holding data of the special figure game using the special figure. Random value MR1 is used as the hold data for the special figure game using the second special figure which has been started (second start prize) but has not yet started although the game ball has passed (entered) the second starting prize opening. The state can be updated in accordance with the progress status of the game such as the second special figure reservation storage unit for storing numerical data indicating the random value MR2 and the random value MR3, the general figure reservation storage unit, the special process flag, etc. Multiple types of flags The game control flag setting unit, the game control timer setting unit provided with various timers used for controlling the progress of the game, and the count value used for controlling the progress of the game are counted. A game control counter setting unit provided with a plurality of types of counters for playing, a game control buffer setting unit provided with various buffers for temporarily storing data used for controlling the progress of the game, and It has.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the effect control board 12 is provided with an effect control CPU 120 that performs a control operation according to a program, a ROM 121 that stores an effect control program, fixed data, and the like, and a work area for the effect control CPU 120. The RAM 122, the display control unit 123 that executes processing for determining the control content of the display operation in the effect display device 5, and the effect control CPU 120 update numerical data indicating random values independently of each other. A random number circuit 124 and an I / O 125 are mounted. As an example, in the effect control board 12, when the effect control CPU 120 executes an effect control program read from the ROM 121, various processes for controlling the effect operation by the effect electric parts are executed. For example, as a process for controlling the effect operations, the effect control CPU 120 receives an input of various signals from the outside of the effect control board 12 via the I / O 125, and the effect control CPU 120 via the I / O 125. Then, transmission processing for outputting various signals to the outside of the effect control board 12 is also performed.

  In addition, the effect control board 12 is equipped with a volume change switch 300 for setting (changing) the volume of sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R. Since the volume change switch 300 is provided on the back surface of the pachinko gaming machine 1, it is usually operable only by a person related to the game store (for example, an employee). In this embodiment, when the pachinko gaming machine 1 is started up, the effect control CPU 120 executes an initialization process described later, so that the setting of the volume change switch 300 is set to the initial volume of the sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R. Set as a setting. In addition, even after the pachinko gaming machine 1 is started up, when a person related to the game shop operates the volume change switch 300, the sound volume output from the speakers 8L and 8R is set by the volume change switch 300 after the operation. Set as In other words, in the present embodiment, the persons concerned in the game shop can set the volume of the sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R by operating the volume change switch 300 both before and after starting the pachinko gaming machine 1. ing.

  For this reason, in the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment, when a person related to the gaming store sets the volume of the sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R, the gaming machine frame 3 of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is opened, It is necessary to wrap around the back side of the pachinko gaming machine 1. However, in a game store where the pachinko gaming machine 1 is installed, there are many cases where the amount of illumination light for the parties involved in the game store to confirm the channel in which the volume change switch 300 is set is insufficient. Thus, in order to deal with a game shop where the amount of illumination light is insufficient, it may be possible to display the volume set by the volume change switch 300 on the effect display device 5, but in this way the volume change When the volume set by the switch 300 is displayed on the effect display device 5, a person related to the game store operates the volume change switch 300 and confirms the volume set by the volume change switch 300. Since the front side and the back side of the machine 1 must be alternated, in the pachinko gaming machine 1 of this embodiment, as will be described later, a volume for notifying the volume set by the volume change switch 300 Notification sound is output from the speakers 8L and 8R.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the volume change switch 300 of this embodiment has numbers (numbers “0” to “9”) corresponding to each channel, but the present invention is not limited to this. However, the volume change switch 300 may not have a number corresponding to each channel. As described above, when the number corresponding to each channel is not written on the volume change switch 300, the light quantity of the illumination is insufficient as described above, and the channel where the volume change switch 300 is set. Therefore, it is only necessary to output a volume notification sound for notifying the volume set by the volume change switch 300 from the speakers 8L and 8R, as will be described later.

  Next, the structure of the back surface of the pachinko gaming machine 1 will be described with reference to FIG. As shown in FIG. 2, the main board 11 is stored in the board storage case 150, and the effect control board 12 is stored in the board storage case 270. As shown in FIG. 2, the volume change switch 300 is disposed on the effect control board 12 so as to face the back direction of the pachinko gaming machine 1. When the pachinko gaming machine 1 is viewed from the back, the volume change switch 300 is arranged in the upper right part of the effect control board 12 (see FIG. 2), and is cut out into a horizontally long rectangular shape formed in the board storage case 270. It is possible to operate from the outside of the substrate storage case 270 through the notch 270a. An official (for example, an employee) of a game store (a game hall, a game hall, etc.) where the pachinko gaming machine 1 is set can open the gaming machine frame 3 to the front side (normally, the player is open). You can't do that) The employee can operate the volume change switch 300 of the effect control board 12 by opening the gaming machine frame 3. On the other hand, the player cannot normally operate the volume change switch 300 because the gaming machine frame 3 cannot be opened. Therefore, the volume change switch 300 is an operation unit for a game store. In other words, in this embodiment, the opening of the gaming machine frame 3 is a condition under which the volume change switch 300 can be operated.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the volume change switch 300 has a total of 10 channels from “0” to “9”, and is a switch for switching these channels by rotating the knob 301. Yes. In the present embodiment, a volume is prepared (defined) corresponding to each of the channels “0” to “9” (see FIG. 16B). In other words, in this embodiment, 10 levels corresponding to “0” to “9” (here, “0” to “9” which are the same as the channels) are prepared as the volume of the sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R ( Defined). That is, if the channel is “0”, “0” is set as the volume of the sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R, and if the channel is “1”, the volume of the sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R. If the channel is “2”, “2” is set as the volume of the sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R.... If the channel is “9”, the speaker 8L is set. , 8R is set to “9” as the volume of the sound output. Note that “0” as the volume of the sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R indicates a mute setting in which no sound is output from the speakers 8L and 8R. In the present embodiment, the volume change switch 300 is connected directly or indirectly to the effect control CPU 120 via a predetermined circuit, and the effect control CPU 120 can read the current channel of the volume change switch 300 ( A signal corresponding to the channel is input to the CPU 120 for effect control).

  Next, the operation (action) of the pachinko gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment will be described. In the main board 11, when power supply from a predetermined power supply board is started, the game control microcomputer 100 is activated, and the CPU 103 executes a predetermined process as a game control main process. When the game control main process is started, the CPU 103 performs necessary initial settings after setting the interrupt disabled. In this initial setting, for example, the RAM 102 is cleared. Also, register setting of a CTC (counter / timer circuit) built in the game control microcomputer 100 is performed. Thereby, thereafter, an interrupt request signal is sent from the CTC to the CPU 103 every predetermined time (for example, 2 milliseconds), and the CPU 103 can periodically execute timer interrupt processing. When the initial setting is completed, an interrupt is permitted and then loop processing is started. In the game control main process, a process for returning the internal state of the pachinko gaming machine 1 to the state at the time of the previous power supply stop may be executed before entering the loop process. When the CPU 103 that has executed such a game control main process receives an interrupt request signal from the CTC and receives an interrupt request, the CPU 103 executes a game control timer interrupt process shown in the flowchart of FIG. When the game control timer interrupt process shown in FIG. 9 is started, the CPU 103 first executes a predetermined switch process, thereby causing the gate switch 21, the first start port switch 22A, the second start port through the switch circuit 110. The state of detection signals input from various switches such as the switch 22B and the count switch 23 is determined (S11). Subsequently, by executing predetermined main-side error processing, abnormality diagnosis of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is performed, and if necessary, warning can be generated according to the diagnosis result (S12). Thereafter, predetermined information output processing is executed (S13). Next, a game random number update process for updating at least a part of the game random numbers such as the random number values MR1 to MR4 by software is executed (S14). Thereafter, the special symbol process shown in FIG. 10 is executed (S15). Subsequent to the special symbol process, the display operation on the normal symbol display 20 (for example, turning on / off the segment LED) is controlled to display the variation of the normal symbol and the tilt of the movable wing piece of the normal variable winning ball apparatus 6B. Normal symbol process processing for performing operation setting and the like is executed (S16). Thereafter, by executing a command control process, a control command is transmitted (output) from the main board 11 to a sub-side control board such as the effect control board 12 (S17).

  FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the special symbol process. In this special symbol process, first, a start winning determination process is executed (S21). Then, according to the value of the special figure process flag provided in the game control flag setting unit 152, any one of the processes of S22 to S29 is selected and executed. In the start winning process of S21, it is determined whether or not there is a first start prize or a second start prize by the first start port switch 22A or the second start port switch 22B, and if there is a win, a random value MR1, MR2 and MR3 are extracted and stored in the top position of the empty entry in the first special figure holding storage section when the first starting prize is received, and the second special figure is reserved when the second starting prize is obtained. Store at the top of the empty entry in the storage. The special symbol normal process of S22 is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is “0”. In the special symbol normal process, it is determined whether or not to start the special symbol game based on the presence / absence of pending data. Further, based on the numerical data indicating the random number value MR1, whether or not the variation display result is “big hit” is determined (predetermined) before the variation display result is derived and displayed. Furthermore, a confirmed special symbol (either a big hit symbol or a missing symbol) is set corresponding to the variation display result. Then, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “1”. The variation pattern setting process of S23 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is “1”. The variation pattern setting process includes a process of determining a variation pattern as one of a plurality of types using numerical data indicating the random value MR3 based on a result of prior determination as to whether or not the variation display result is “big hit”. It is included. Then, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “2”. The special symbol variation process of S24 is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is “2”. The special symbol variation process includes a process for setting the special symbol on the first special symbol display 4A and the second special symbol display 4B, and an elapsed time after the special symbol starts variation. It includes processing to measure When the special symbol variation elapsed time reaches the special symbol variation time, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to “3”. The special symbol stop process of S25 is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is “3”. The special symbol stop process includes a process for performing a setting for stopping and displaying (deriving) a fixed special symbol that is a variation display result of the special symbol on the first special symbol display 4A or the second special symbol display 4B. It is. Then, it is determined whether or not the big hit flag is on. If the big hit flag is on, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “4”. On the other hand, when the big hit flag is off, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “0”.

  The big hit release pre-processing of S26 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is “4”. The pre-opening process for the big hit includes a process for starting the execution of the round in the big hit gaming state and setting the big winning opening to the open state based on the fact that the fluctuation display result is “big hit”. include. Specifically, the upper limit of the period during which the winning a prize opening is in the open state is set to “29 seconds”, and the opening number of the winning a prize opening which is the upper limit number of times for executing the round is set to “non-probable big hit” or “probable change”. If it is a “big hit A”, it is set to “16 times”. On the other hand, when the big hit type is “probability big hit B”, the number of times of opening of the big winning opening that is the upper limit number of times to execute the round is set to “5 times”. At this time, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “5”. The big hit release process of S27 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is “5”. In the big hit opening process, the winning prize opening is based on the process of measuring the elapsed time since the big winning opening is in the open state, the measured elapsed time, the number of game balls detected by the count switch 23, and the like. The process etc. which determine whether it became the timing which returns to a closed state from an open state are included. Then, when returning the special winning opening to the closed state, after performing processing for stopping the supply of the solenoid driving signal to the special winning opening door solenoid 82, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “6”. . The big hit release post-processing in S28 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is “6”. In this post-hit opening process, the process of determining whether or not the number of rounds in which the winning opening is in the open state has reached the maximum number of opening of the big winning opening, or the maximum number of opening of the big winning opening has been reached. In some cases, processing for setting to transmit a jackpot end designation command is included. When the number of round executions has not reached the maximum value of the number of times of winning the special winning opening, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “5”. The value of the process flag is updated to “7”. The big hit end processing of S29 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is “7”. The jackpot end process includes a process of waiting until a waiting time corresponding to a period in which an ending effect for notifying the end of the jackpot gaming state is executed. When such setting is performed, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “0”.

  In the big hit end process, the big hit type buffer value stored in the game control buffer setting unit is read, and whether the big hit type is “non-probable big hit”, “probable big hit A”, or “probable big hit B”. Identify. If it is determined that the identified big hit type is not “non-probable variation big hit”, setting for starting the probability variation control (setting of the probability variation flag) is performed. In addition, when the specified big hit type is “non-probable variable big hit”, the setting for starting the time reduction control (in advance corresponding to the setting of the time reduction flag and the upper limit value of the special game that can be executed during the time reduction control). A predetermined count initial value (“100” in the present embodiment) is set in the short-time counter.

  Next, the operation of the effect control board 12 will be described. First, when the power is turned on, the production control CPU 120 starts executing the main process shown in FIG. In the main processing, first, initialization processing is performed for clearing the RAM area, setting various initial values, and initializing a timer for determining the activation control activation interval (for example, 2 ms) (S51). Thereafter, the effect control CPU 120 proceeds to a loop process for monitoring the timer interrupt flag (S52). When the timer interrupt occurs, the effect control CPU 120 sets a timer interrupt flag by the timer interrupt process. If the timer interrupt flag is set (turned on) in the main process, the effect control CPU 120 clears the flag (S53) and executes the following process. The effect control CPU 120 first performs command analysis processing (S54). In the command analysis process, it is analyzed which command (see FIG. 3) is the command transmitted from the main board 11 stored in the reception command buffer. The effect control command transmitted from the game control microcomputer 100 is received by an interrupt process based on the effect control INT signal and stored in a buffer area formed in the RAM. And the process etc. which set the flag according to the received production control command are performed. Next, the effect control CPU 120 performs effect control process processing (S55). In the effect control process, the process corresponding to the current control state (effect control process flag) is selected from the processes corresponding to the control state, and display control of the effect display device 5 is executed.

  Next, an effect random number update process for updating the count value of the counter for generating the effect random numbers such as the jackpot symbol determination random number is performed (S56). Next, the effect control CPU 120 performs an opening monitoring process (S57). In the opening monitoring process, control for monitoring whether the glass door frame 50 or the gaming machine frame 3 is opened by the opening detection sensor 60 is executed. Next, the effect control CPU 120 performs game hall side volume change processing (S58). In the game hall side volume change processing, control is performed to set the volume of the sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R by operating the volume change switch 300. Next, the effect control CPU 120 performs player-side volume change processing (S59). In the player side volume change processing, control is performed to set the volume of the sound output from the speakers 8L, 8R by operating the volume adjustment buttons 41, 42, and then the process proceeds to S52.

  FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the effect control process (S55) of the effect control main process. In the effect control process, the effect control CPU 120 first displays the hold memory display in the first hold memory display area 5D and the second hold memory display area 5U of the effect display device 5 in accordance with the stored contents of the hold memory buffer. A pending display update process for updating to display is executed (S72). Thereafter, the effect control CPU 120 performs any one of S73 to S79 according to the value of the effect control process flag. In each process, the following process is executed. Fluctuation pattern designation command reception waiting process (S73): It is confirmed whether or not a variation pattern designation command is received from the game control microcomputer 100. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not a variation pattern designation command is received in the command analysis process. If the change pattern designation 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 (S74). Effect symbol variation start processing (S74): Control is performed so that the variation of the effect symbol is started. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the effect symbol changing process (S75). Production symbol variation processing (S75): 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 (S76). Effect symbol variation stop processing (S76): Based on the reception of the effect control command (symbol confirmation command) for instructing all symbols to stop, control is performed to stop the variation of the effect symbol and derive and display the display result (stop symbol). Do. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the jackpot display process (S77) or the variation pattern designation command reception waiting process (S73).

  Jackpot display process (S77): After the end of the variation time, control is performed to display a screen for notifying the effect display device 5 of the occurrence of a jackpot. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the big hit game processing (S78). Big hit game processing (S78): Control during the big hit game is performed. For example, when receiving a special command during opening of the special prize opening or a designation command after opening the special prize opening, display control of the number of rounds in the effect display device 5 is performed. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the jackpot end effect process (S79). Big hit end effect process (S79): In the effect display device 5, 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 designation command reception waiting process (S73).

  FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the opening monitoring process of the effect control main process. In the opening monitoring process, the effect control CPU 120 first determines whether or not the opening detection sensor 60 detects the opening of the glass door frame 50 or the gaming machine frame 3 (frame) (S81). When the opening detection sensor 60 detects the opening of the glass door frame 50 or the gaming machine frame 3, the process proceeds to S82, and when the opening detection sensor 60 does not detect the opening of the glass door frame 50 and the gaming machine frame 3. The process proceeds to S83. In S82, the effect control CPU 120 executes an error sound output process to output an error sound indicating that the glass door frame 50 or the gaming machine frame 3 is opened from the speakers 8L and 8R, thereby monitoring the opening. The process ends. As shown in FIG. 16A, the speakers 8L and 8R perform error sound output processing, so that the error sound is output for a certain period of time (error sound output) at the maximum volume 9 in the present embodiment. For the execution period). Then, after a predetermined period (error sound output non-execution period) has elapsed, the speakers 8L and 8R repeat outputting the error sound at the volume 9 again over a certain period.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 13, in S83, the effect control CPU 120 determines whether or not an error sound is being output from the speakers 8L and 8R. When the error sound is being output from the speakers 8L and 8R, the output of the error sound from the speakers 8L and 8R is terminated and the open monitoring process is terminated (S84), and the error sound is not being output from the speakers 8L and 8R. In this case, the open monitoring process is terminated without going through S84. As described above, in this embodiment, the opening detection sensor 60 monitors the opening of the glass door frame 50 and the gaming machine frame 3 (base frame). Preventing illegal acts such as illegally winning a game ball in a mouth or a grand prize opening, or replacing the main board 11 with an illegally modified board by opening the gaming machine frame 3. It is possible.

  FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the game hall side volume changing process of the effect control main process. In the game hall side volume changing process, the effect control CPU 120 first determines whether or not the opening detection sensor 60 detects the opening of the gaming machine frame 3 (frame) (S90). If the opening detection sensor 60 detects the opening of the gaming machine frame 3 (underframe), the process proceeds to S91. If the opening detection sensor 60 does not detect the opening of the gaming machine frame 3 (underframe), the process proceeds to S98. move on. In S91, the effect control CPU 120 determines whether there is a change in the channel in which the volume change switch 300 is set, that is, whether the volume change switch 300 has been operated. If there is a change in the channel in which the volume change switch 300 is set, the process proceeds to S92. If there is no change in the channel in which the volume change switch 300 is set, the game hall side volume change process is terminated.

  In S92, the effect control CPU 120 sets (changes) the volume according to the channel in which the volume change switch 300 is set. Specifically, if the set channel is “0”, “0” is set as the volume of the sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R, and if the set channel is “1”, the speaker 8L is set. , 8R is set as the volume of the sound output from the 8R, and if the set channel is “2”, the volume of the sound output from the speakers 8L, 8R is set as “2”. If the set channel is “9”, “9” is set as the volume of the sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R. Then, the effect control CPU 120 executes the sound volume notification process, so that the sound volume notification sound corresponding to the set sound volume is output from the speakers 8L and 8R to the parties involved in the game shop who operated the volume change switch 300. Output. Note that, as shown in FIG. 16A, the speakers 8L and 8R perform the sound volume notification process so that the sound volume notification sound is output during a predetermined period (error sound output non-execution period) during which no error sound is output. On the other hand, during a certain period (error sound output execution period) during which the error sound is output, the sound volume notification sound is not output.

  In other words, in the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment, when a person related to the gaming store opens the gaming machine frame 3 in order to operate the volume change switch 300, error sound is repeatedly output from the speakers 8L and 8R. On the other hand, the volume notification sound is output from the speakers 8L and 8R during a period in which the error sound is not output. For this reason, the error sound and the volume notification sound are not mixedly output from the speakers 8L and 8R, and the person concerned in the game shop can accurately distinguish the error sound and the volume notification sound. .

  As shown in FIG. 16B, when the volume set by operating the volume change switch 300 is any one of “1” to “9”, the volume change switch 300 is operated as the volume notification sound. The language voice indicating the set (changed) volume is output from the speakers 8L and 8R at the changed volume. Specifically, when the volume is set to “1” by operating the volume change switch 300, a message “volume is 1” is output from the speakers 8 </ b> L and 8 </ b> R at the volume “1”. When the volume is set to “2” by the operation of 300, the message “Volume is 2” is output from the speakers 8L and 8R at the volume “2”. When “9” is set, a message “volume is 9” is output from the speakers 8L and 8R at the volume “9”.

  When the volume of the sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R is set to the reference volume (“0” in FIG. 16B) by operating the volume change switch 300, a volume notification sound is output from the speakers 8L and 8R. The sound is output at a volume higher than the reference volume (“9” in FIG. 16B). Specifically, when the volume is set to “0” (silence setting) by the operation of the volume change switch 300, the volume of “0” is the reference volume, and thus “silence setting is performed” from the speakers 8L and 8R. Is output at a volume of “9” which is larger than the reference volume (volume of “0”). In addition, when the volume set by the operation of the volume change switch 300 is “0” (silence setting), the game effect LED 9 is lit in red during the output of the volume notification sound, so that the operation of the volume change switch 300 is performed. By this, the fact that the volume has been set to “0” is notified to the persons concerned at the game shop who operated the volume change switch 300.

  Next, the effect control CPU 120 determines whether or not the channel in which the volume change switch 300 is set is “0”, that is, whether or not the volume is set to “0” by operating the volume change switch 300. (S94). If the channel to which the volume change switch 300 is set is “0”, the process proceeds to S95, and if the channel to which the volume change switch 300 is set is not “0”, the process proceeds to S96. In S95, the effect control CPU 120 starts a mute setting display in the upper right part of the effect display device 5 indicating that the sound volume is set to “0” by operating the sound volume change switch 300 (see FIG. 17A). Then, the game hall side volume changing process is terminated. In S95, when the volume status display VL, which will be described later, is displayed on the effect display device 5, the display of the volume status display VL is terminated. In S <b> 96, the effect control CPU 120 determines whether the mute setting display is executed in the upper right part of the effect display device 5. When the mute setting display is executed in the upper right part of the effect display device 5, the process proceeds to S97, and when the mute setting display is not executed in the upper right part of the effect display device 5, the game hall side volume changing process is ended. In S97, the effect control CPU 120 ends the mute setting display that is being executed in the upper right part of the effect display device 5, and ends the game hall side volume changing process.

  In S98, the effect control CPU 120 determines whether or not the volume notification is being executed, that is, whether or not the volume notification sound is output from the speakers 8L and 8R or the game effect LED 9 is being lit red. To do. If the volume notification is being executed, the process proceeds to S100, and if the volume notification is not being executed, the game hall volume change process is terminated. In S100, the effect control CPU 120 ends the sound volume notification in response to the closing of the glass door frame 50 and the gaming machine frame 3 (base frame). That is, the effect control CPU 120 ends the output of the volume notification sound from the speakers 8L and 8R and the red lighting of the game effect LED 9. Then, the game hall side volume changing process is terminated.

  FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the player side volume changing process of the effect control main process. In the player side volume change processing, the effect control CPU 120 first determines whether or not the volume adjustment buttons 41 and 42 are operated (S101). When the volume adjustment buttons 41 and 42 are operated, the process proceeds to S102, and when the volume adjustment buttons 41 and 42 are not operated, the player side volume change processing is ended. In S102, the effect control CPU 120 determines whether or not the channel in which the volume change switch 300 is set is “0”, that is, whether or not the mute setting is executed. If the channel in which the volume change switch 300 is set is “0”, the process proceeds to S105, and if the channel in which the volume change switch 300 is set is not “0”, the process proceeds to S103.

  In S103, the effect control CPU 120 changes the volume of the sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R in the range of “1” to “9” in accordance with the operation of the volume adjustment buttons 41 and 42, and proceeds to S105. For example, when the volume adjustment button 41 is pressed, the volume of the sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R is incremented by 1 in the range of “1” to “9”. That is, when the volume adjustment button 41 is pressed while the volume of the sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R is set to “1”, the volume of the sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R is set to “2”. When the volume adjustment button 41 is pressed while the volume of the sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R is set to “2”, the volume of the sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R is set to “3”. When the volume adjustment button 41 is pressed while the volume of the sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R is set to “8”, the volume of the sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R is changed. Change to "9". When the volume adjustment button 42 is pressed, the volume of the sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R is decreased by 1 in the range of “1” to “9”. That is, when the volume adjustment button 42 is pressed while the volume of the sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R is set to “2”, the volume of the sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R is set to “1”. If the volume adjustment button 42 is pressed while the volume of the sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R is set to “3”, the volume of the sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R is set to “2”. When the volume adjustment button 42 is pressed while the volume of the sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R is set to “9”, the volume of the sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R is changed. Change to “8”. Then, the display mode of the gauge-like volume status display VL (see FIG. 18C) displayed in the upper right part of the effect display device 5 is updated according to the set volume, and the player-side volume change processing is performed. The process ends (S104).

  On the other hand, in S105, the effect control CPU 120 changes the volume of the sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R to “1”. Then, in S106, the effect control CPU 120 ends the display of the mute setting display displayed in the upper right part of the effect display device 5 (S106), and replaces the mute setting display with the upper right of the effect display device 5. The display of the volume status display VL in the display mode corresponding to the volume “1” is started in the section, and the player side volume change processing is ended. As described above, by executing the player side volume changing process, the player operates the volume adjustment buttons 41 and 42 during the mute setting as shown in FIGS. 17 (A) to 17 (D). Thus, after the mute setting is released, the player operates the volume adjustment buttons 41 and 42 to change the volume of the sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R from “1” to It is possible to change within the range of “9”.

  Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described with reference to the drawings, the specific configuration is not limited to these embodiments, and modifications and additions within the scope of the present invention are included in the present invention. It is.

  For example, in the above embodiment, when the volume adjustment buttons 41 and 42 are operated, the form of adjusting the volume of the sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R according to the operation of the volume adjustment buttons 41 and 42 is exemplified. The present invention is not limited to this, and as shown in FIG. 18 as a first modification, the volume of the sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R is changed when the volume adjustment buttons 41 and 42 are operated for the first time. Instead, the volume of the currently set sound is output from the speakers 8L and 8R, and the volume of the sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R is changed when the volume adjustment buttons 41 and 42 are operated for the second and subsequent times. The volume notification sound may be output from the speakers 8L and 8R at the changed volume from the speakers 8L and 8R according to the operation of the volume adjustment buttons 41 and 42 for the second and subsequent times. By doing so, even if the player accidentally operates the volume adjustment buttons 41 and 42, the currently set sound volume is only output from the speakers 8L and 8R, and the unintended volume Can prevent changes. Furthermore, since the volume of the currently set sound can be recognized before the volume of the sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R is changed, the usability of the volume changing function can be improved.

  Further, in the embodiment, when the volume change switch 300 is operated in the range of the channels “1” to “9”, the volume notification from the speakers 8L and 8R is performed with the volume changed according to the operation of the volume change switch 300. Although the form which outputs a sound was illustrated, this invention is not limited to this, As shown in FIG. 19 as a modification 2, as for the volume of any one among "1"-"9" volume When the volume of the sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R is set to the reference volume by the operation of the volume change switch 300 (“3” in the second modification), the volume notification from the speakers 8L and 8R is made. The sound may be output at a volume higher than the reference volume (“9” in the second modification). By doing in this way, it is possible to easily set the volume of the sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R with reference to the reference volume for the parties involved in the game shop.

  In the above embodiment, when the mute setting is executed by operating the volume change switch 300 (when the volume of the sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R is set to “0”), the mute is set as the volume notification sound. Although an example in which the setting is executed is output from the speakers 8L and 8R at a volume (maximum volume) of “9” that is larger than the volume of “0”, the present invention is limited to this. Instead, the fact that the mute setting as the volume notification sound is executed may be output at any volume of “1” to “8”. By doing in this way, the person concerned in a game store can make it easy to set the volume of the sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R.

  Moreover, in the said Example, when changing the volume of the sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R by operation of the volume change switch 300, the form which outputs a volume alerting sound from the speakers 8L and 8R in the language voice was illustrated. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and as the volume notification sound, an electronic sound or a specific melody that does not make a language such as a beep sound may be output from the speakers 8L and 8R. By doing in this way, the person concerned in a game store can make it easy to set the volume of the sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R.

  In the above embodiment, when the mute setting is executed by operating the volume change switch 300 (when the volume of the sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R is set to “0”), the game effect LED 9 is turned on. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the game effect LED 9 may not be turned on when the mute setting is executed by operating the volume change switch 300. By doing in this way, the power consumption at the time of performing a mute setting can be suppressed.

  In the above embodiment, when the mute setting is executed by operating the volume change switch 300 (when the volume of the sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R is set to “0”), the game effect LED 9 is displayed in red. Although the form of lighting is illustrated, the present invention is not limited to this, and the volume of the sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R by the operation of the volume change switch 300 is any one of “1” to “9”. When set, the game effect LED 9 may be lit in a color other than red, or the game effect LED 9 may be blinked. By doing in this way, it can be notified more easily whether silence setting is performed.

  Moreover, in the said Example, although the volume adjustment button 41,42 was provided in the pachinko game machine 1, and the player operated the volume adjustment button 41,42, the form which mute setting was cancelled | released was illustrated, However, this invention However, the mute setting may not be canceled by operating the volume adjustment buttons 41 and 42. By doing so, it is possible to prevent a loud sound from being output from the speakers 8L and 8R due to unintentional cancellation of the mute setting in a game shop or the like where the pachinko gaming machine 1 is installed.

  Moreover, in the said Example, although the volume adjustment button 41,42 was provided in the pachinko game machine 1, and the player operated the volume adjustment button 41,42, the form which mute setting was cancelled | released was illustrated, However, this invention However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a touch panel, a motion sensor, or the like is provided in the pachinko gaming machine 1 as detection means capable of detecting the player's movement, and the specific action of the player is detected by the detection means. The mute setting may be cancelled. By doing so, the usability of the volume changing function can be improved.

  In the above embodiment, the error sound and the volume notification sound are alternately output from the speakers 8L and 8R, so that the parties concerned in the game shop can accurately distinguish between the error sound and the volume notification sound. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and an error sound and a volume notification sound may be simultaneously output from the speakers 8L and 8R as long as the sound can be discriminated by persons involved in the game store. May be. By doing in this way, the persons concerned at the game shop can recognize the error sound and the sound volume notification sound at the same time, so that the person concerned at the game shop can more quickly recognize fraud against the pachinko gaming machine 1.

  In the above embodiment, the error sound and the volume notification sound are output from the speakers 8L and 8R for reproducing and outputting the sound effects and the like. And an error and volume notification sound may be output from the speaker. By doing so, it is possible to prevent a decrease in gaming interests due to the output of the error sound and the volume notification sound from the speakers 8L and 8R.

  In the above embodiment, the error sound is intermittently repeatedly output from the speakers 8L and 8R, while the volume notification sound is output from the speakers 8L and 8R in a period in which the error sound is not output. A speaker different from these speakers 8L and 8R may be provided in the pachinko gaming machine 1, and an error sound may be intermittently repeatedly output from the speakers, while a volume notification sound may be output from the speakers 8L and 8R. By doing in this way, it becomes easy to set the volume of the sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R.

  In the above embodiment, the error sound is intermittently repeatedly output from the speakers 8L and 8R, while the volume notification sound is output from the speakers 8L and 8R in a period in which the error sound is not output. While the error sound is intermittently repeatedly output from the speaker 8L, the volume notification sound may be output from the speaker 8R. By doing in this way, it becomes easy to set the volume of the sound output from the speaker 8R.

  In the embodiment, the pachinko gaming machine 1 is provided with the volume change switch 300 that can be operated only by a person related to the game store and the volume adjustment buttons 41 and 42 that can be operated by the person related to the game store and the player. Although an example in which the volume of the sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R can be changed by the persons involved in the game shop and the player is illustrated, the present invention is not limited to this, and a volume adjustment button is provided on the pachinko gaming machine 1 By not providing 41 and 42, only the person concerned in the game store may be able to change the volume of the sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R. In this way, only the related parties of the game shop can change the volume of the sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R, so that the game of the game shop in which the pachinko gaming machine 1 is installed by an unintended player's operation. It is possible to prevent the environment from changing.

  In the embodiment, the pachinko gaming machine 1 is provided with the volume change switch 300 that can be operated only by a person related to the game store and the volume adjustment buttons 41 and 42 that can be operated by the person related to the game store and the player. Although the embodiment in which the player concerned and the player can change the volume of the sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R is exemplified, the present invention is not limited to this, and the volume change switch is provided in the pachinko gaming machine 1. Without providing 300, the volume of the sound output from the speakers 8L, 8R may be changed only by operating the volume adjustment buttons 41, 42. When the volume of the sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R can be changed only by operating the volume adjustment buttons 41 and 42, the sound is output from the speakers 8L and 8R by the operation of the volume adjustment buttons 41 and 42. The sound volume can be changed in the range of “0” to “9”, and when the volume is changed to “0” (silence setting), the volume notification sound is output at the volume of “9”. When the volume is changed to any one of “1” to “9”, a volume notification sound may be output according to the changed volume. By doing so, the interest of the game can be improved.

  In the embodiment, as shown in FIG. 17, the player can change the volume of the sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R by operating the volume adjustment buttons 41 and 42 during the variable display. Although illustrated, the present invention is not limited to this, and the volume of the sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R can be adjusted by the player operating the volume adjustment buttons 41 and 42 only when the variable display is not executed. By making the change possible, the player may be allowed to pay attention to the change display during the execution of the change display, or the player may be in both the change display and when the change display is not executed. It may be possible to improve the usability of the volume changing function by changing the volume of the sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R by operating the volume adjusting buttons 41 and 42.

  In the embodiment, a pachinko gaming machine is applied as an example of a gaming machine. However, for example, a game can be started by setting a predetermined number of bets for one game using a gaming value. At the same time, one game is completed by deriving a variation display result to an effect display device capable of variably displaying a plurality of types of symbols that can each be identified, and a prize is awarded according to the variation display result derived to the effect display device. This can also be applied to a slot machine that can generate In this way, it is possible to easily recognize that the mute setting is set even in the slot machine.

  The present invention is not limited to what has been described above. Further, the specific configuration is included in the present invention even if there is a change or addition in a range not departing from the gist of the present invention in addition to the above-described embodiment and other examples described later.

  Moreover, it is good also as combining all or one part structure arbitrarily among the structure shown to embodiment mentioned above and each modification, and the structure shown in the below-mentioned embodiment.

  In addition, it should be thought that the above-described embodiment and the later-described embodiment disclosed herein are illustrative and non-restrictive in every respect. The scope of the present invention is defined by the terms of the claims, rather than the above description and the descriptions below, and is intended to include any modifications within the scope and meaning equivalent to the terms of the claims.

  In addition, the gaming machine of the present invention is a gaming machine capable of playing a game (for example, a pachinko gaming machine 1), and a first input terminal (for example, terminals D0 to D7, terminals PI0 to PI4 in FIG. 25). , An electronic device (for example, CPU 9056 in FIG. 25) having a second input terminal (for example, terminal PI5 / XINT, terminal PI6 / XNMI, terminal PI7 / RX0 in FIG. 25), and a sound output unit (for example, CPU 9056 in FIG. 25). , Speakers 8L, 8R) and volume setting means capable of setting the volume of the sound output from the sound output unit (for example, the effect control CPU 120 executes a game hall side volume change process and a player side volume change process). Part) and specific sound output means (for example, the effect control CPU 120 for playing the game hall side volume changing process) that can output a specific sound (for example, a volume notification sound) corresponding to the volume set by the volume setting means. The second input terminal is low active (for example, set to XINT at the terminal PI5 / XINT in FIG. 25) or high active (for example, the terminal PI5 in FIG. 25). / XINT can be set to PI5) and is set to low active when a predetermined function is used. When the second input terminal is an empty terminal, the second input terminal is set to a power line (for example, , When the first input terminal is an empty terminal, the first input terminal is connected to ground (for example, ground G in FIG. 25), and the volume setting means is It is possible to set a reference volume (for example, “0” in FIG. 16B, “3” in FIG. 19) that serves as a reference for the volume of the sound output from the sound output unit, The specific sound output means outputs the specific sound at a volume larger than the volume corresponding to the reference volume when the reference volume is set (for example, as shown in FIG. When the volume of the sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R is changed to “0” by the operation of the switch 300, the volume notification sound is output from the speakers 8L and 8R at the volume of “9”, in FIG. In the case where the sound volume is changed to “3”, the volume notification sound is output from the speakers 8L and 8R at a volume of “9”).

  According to the above gaming machine, since the reference volume can be easily recognized, the efficiency of setting the volume of the sound output from the sound output unit can be improved. In addition, versatility can be improved between models with a small number of input terminals. In addition, since the number of input terminals can be reduced, the electronic device can be downsized. In addition, when the second input terminal is not used, the terminal is connected to a relatively stable power line, so that even if a predetermined function is mistakenly set to the second input terminal that is not used, the second input terminal is inadvertently specified. Execution of the function is suppressed.

  In the gaming machine, the control means for controlling the sound output may include an electronic device, and the electronic device may be used to control the output of the sound including the specific sound and the setting of the reference sound volume.

  Furthermore, as an example of the form of a gaming machine that aims to improve versatility between different models for electronic devices having a plurality of input terminals such as a CPU, first input terminals (for example, terminals D0 to D7 in FIG. 25, terminals PI0 to PI4), a second input terminal (for example, terminal PI5 / XINT, terminal PI6 / XNMI, terminal PI7 / RX0 in FIG. 25), an electronic device (for example, CPU 9056 in FIG. 25), and the second input terminal Can be set to low active (for example, set to XINT at terminal PI5 / XINT in FIG. 25) or high active (for example, set to PI5 at terminal PI5 / XINT in FIG. 25), and uses a predetermined function. If the second input terminal is set to an empty terminal, the second input terminal is set to a power line (for example, FIG. 5 is connected to a predetermined voltage Vcc), the case of the first input terminal and the vacant terminal, said first ground input terminal (for example, a game machine to be connected to the ground G) in FIG. 25. Below, an example of the form example of this gaming machine will be described as another form example.

(Other examples)
Hereinafter, other embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. First, the overall configuration of a pachinko gaming machine that is an example of a gaming machine will be described. FIG. 20 is a front view of the pachinko gaming machine as viewed from the front, and FIG. 21 is a front view showing the front of the game board. In the following embodiment, a pachinko gaming machine will be described as an example. However, the gaming machine according to this embodiment is not limited to a pachinko gaming machine, and can be applied to, for example, an image-type gaming machine or a slot machine.

  The pachinko gaming machine 901 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 openable and closable. In addition, the pachinko gaming machine 901 has a glass door frame 2 formed in a frame shape that can be opened and closed in the game frame. The game frame includes a front frame (not shown) installed to be openable and closable with respect to the outer frame, a mechanism plate to which mechanism parts and the like are attached, and various parts attached to them (excluding a game board described later). And a structure including:

  As shown in FIG. 20, the pachinko gaming machine 901 has a glass door frame 902 formed in a frame shape. A hitting ball supply tray (upper plate) 903 is provided on the lower surface of the glass door frame 902. Below the hit ball supply tray 903, there are provided an extra ball receiving tray 904 for storing game balls that cannot be accommodated in the hit ball supply tray 903, and a hitting operation handle (operation knob) 905 for emitting game balls. A game board 906 is detachably attached to the back surface of the glass door frame 902. The game board 906 is a structure including a plate-like body constituting the game board 906 and various components attached to the plate-like body. A game area 907 is formed on the front surface of the game board 906.

  Near the center of the game area 907, there is provided a variable display device (special symbol display device) 909 including a plurality of variable display portions each variably displaying a symbol as identification information. The variable display device 909 has, for example, three variable display portions (symbol display areas) of “left”, “middle”, and “right”. In addition, the variable display device 909 is provided with four special symbol start memory display areas (start memory display areas) 9018 for displaying the number of effective winning balls entered into the start winning opening 9014, that is, the start memory number. Every time there is a valid start prize, the start storage display area is changed by one (for example, the display color is changed from blue display to red display). Each time the variable display of the variable display device 909 is started, the start memory number display area where the display color is changed is reduced by 1 (that is, the display color is returned to the original). In this example, the symbol display area and the start memory display area are provided separately, so that the start memory number can be displayed even during variable display. The start memory display area may be provided in a part of the symbol display area. In this case, the start memory number display may be interrupted during variable display. In this example, the start memory display area is provided in the variable display device 909. However, a display for displaying the start memory number (special symbol start memory display) is provided separately from the variable display device 909. It may be.

  Below the variable display device 909, a variable winning ball device 9015 is provided as a start winning opening 9014. The winning ball that has entered the start winning opening 9014 is guided to the back of the game board 906 and detected by the start opening switch 9014a. A variable winning ball device 9015 that opens and closes is provided below the start winning opening 9014. The variable winning ball device 9015 is opened by a solenoid 9016.

  An opening / closing plate 9020 that is opened by a solenoid 9021 in a specific gaming state (big hit state) is provided below the variable winning ball device 9015. The opening / closing plate 9020 is a means for opening and closing the special winning opening. Of the winning balls guided to the back of the game board 906 from the opening / closing plate 9020, the winning ball entering one (V winning area) is detected by the V winning switch 9022, and the winning ball from the opening / closing plate 9020 is detected by the count switch 9023. Is done. On the back of the game board 906, a solenoid 9021A for switching the route in the special winning opening is also provided.

  When a game ball wins the gate 9032 and is detected by the gate switch 9032a, variable display of the normal symbol display 9010 is started. In this embodiment, variable display is performed by alternately lighting the left and right lamps (a symbol can be visually recognized when the lamp is lit). When the stop symbol in the normal symbol display 9010 is a predetermined symbol (winning symbol), the variable winning ball device 9015 is opened for a predetermined number of times. In the vicinity of the normal symbol display 9010, a normal symbol start memory display 9041 having a display unit with four LEDs for displaying the number of winning balls entered in the gate 9032 is provided. Each time the gate 9032 is won, the normal symbol start memory display 9041 increases the number of LEDs to be turned on by one. Each time variable display on the normal symbol display 9010 is started, the number of LEDs to be lit is reduced by one.

  The game board 906 is provided with a plurality of winning ports 9029, 9030, 9033, 9039, and winning of game balls to the winning ports 9029, 9030, 9033, 9039 is performed by winning port switches 9029a, 9030a, 9033a, 9039a, respectively. Detected. Each winning opening 9029, 9030, 9033, 9039 constitutes a winning area provided in the game board 906 as an area for accepting game media and allowing winning. Note that a start winning opening 9014 that accepts game media and allows winning is also a winning area. Decorative lamps 9025 blinkingly displayed during the game are provided around the left and right sides of the game area 907, and an out port 9026 for absorbing game balls that have not won a prize is provided at the bottom. In addition, two speakers 9027 that emit sound effects are provided on the left and right upper portions outside the game area 907. On the outer periphery of the game area 907, a top frame lamp 9028a, a left frame lamp 9028b, and a right frame lamp 9028c are provided. Furthermore, decorative LEDs are installed around each structure (such as a big prize opening) in the game area 907. The top frame lamp 9028a, the left frame lamp 9028b, the right frame lamp 9028c, and the decorative LED are examples of a decorative light emitter provided in the gaming machine.

  In this example, a prize ball lamp 9051 that is turned on when there is a remaining number of prize balls is provided in the vicinity of the left frame lamp 9028b. A cut lamp 9052 is provided. As described above, the pachinko gaming machine 901 of this embodiment is provided with lamps and LEDs as light emitters in various places. Further, FIG. 20 also shows a card unit 9050 that is installed adjacent to the pachinko gaming machine 901 and enables lending of a ball by inserting a prepaid card.

  The card unit 9050 includes an availability indicator lamp 90151 that indicates whether or not the card unit 9050 is usable, a connection table direction indicator 90153 that indicates which side of the pachinko gaming machine 901 corresponds to the card unit 9050, a card A card insertion indicator lamp 90154 indicating that a card is inserted into the unit 9050, a card insertion slot 90155 into which a card as a recording medium is inserted, and a card reader / writer mechanism provided on the back surface of the card insertion slot 90155 A card unit lock 90156 is provided for releasing the card unit 9050 when checking the card.

  The game balls launched from the hit ball launching device enter the game area 907 through the hit ball rail, and then descend the game area 907. When the game ball enters the start winning opening 9014 and is detected by the start opening switch 9014a, the special display on the variable display device 909 starts variable display (variation) if the variable display of the symbol can be started. If the variable display of the symbol cannot be started, the start memory number is increased by one.

  The variable display of the special symbol on the variable display device 909 stops when a certain time has elapsed. If the combination of special symbols at the time of stoppage is a jackpot symbol (specific display result), the game shifts to a jackpot gaming state. That is, the opening / closing plate 9020 is opened until a predetermined time elapses or a predetermined number (for example, 10) of game balls wins. When a game ball wins a V winning area while the opening / closing plate 9020 is opened and is detected by the V winning switch 9022, a continuation right is generated and the opening / closing plate 9020 is opened again. The generation of the continuation right is allowed a predetermined number of times (for example, 15 rounds). The continuation right may be eliminated without providing the V winning switch 9022, and only a predetermined number of times (for example, 15 rounds) may be allowed.

  When the combination of special symbols in the variable display device 909 at the time of stoppage is a combination of jackpot symbols (probability variation symbols) with probability fluctuations, the probability of the next jackpot increases. That is, it becomes a more advantageous state for the player in the probability variation state.

  When the game ball wins the gate 9032, the normal symbol display 9010 is variably displayed. Further, when the stop symbol in the normal symbol display 9010 is a predetermined symbol (winning symbol), the variable winning ball device 9015 is opened for a predetermined time. Further, in the probability variation state, the probability that the stop symbol in the normal symbol display 9010 is a winning symbol is increased, and the opening time and the number of times of opening of the variable winning ball device 9015 are increased. That is, the opening time and the number of times of opening of the variable winning ball device 9015 are increased when the stop symbol of the normal symbol is a winning symbol, or when the stop symbol of the special symbol is a probabilistic symbol. Change to an advantageous state. It should be noted that increasing the number of times of opening is a concept including changing from a closed state to an open state.

  Next, the structure of the back surface of the pachinko gaming machine 901 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 22 is a rear view of the gaming machine as seen from the back side.

  As shown in FIG. 22, on the back side of the gaming machine, a game in which a variable display control unit 9049 including an effect control board 9080 on which an effect control means for controlling the variable display device 909 is mounted, a game control microcomputer, and the like are mounted. A control board (main board) 9031 is installed. In addition, a payout control board 9037 on which a payout control microcomputer for performing ball payout control is mounted is installed. The effect control means includes various decoration LEDs provided on the game board 906, a normal symbol start memory display 9041, a decoration lamp 9025, a top frame lamp 9028a provided on the frame side, a left frame lamp 9028b, a right frame. The lamp 9028c, the prize ball lamp 9051, and the ball-out lamp 9052 are controlled to be turned on, and sound generation from the speaker 9027 is controlled.

  Further, a power supply board 90910 and a launch control board 9091 on which power supply circuits for creating DC30V, DC21V, DC12V, and DC5V are mounted are provided. Most of the power supply substrate 90910 overlaps with the main substrate 9031, but there is an exposed portion that is exposed to the outside without overlapping with the main substrate 9031. In this exposed portion, power is supplied to each electrical component control board (main board 9031, effect control board 9080, payout control board 9037) of the pachinko gaming machine 901 and each electrical component provided in the pachinko gaming machine 901. Alternatively, a power switch 90914 serving as a power supply permission means for cutting off, and a backup RAM included in the main board 9031 (variable data that can retain stored contents for a predetermined period even when power supply to the gaming machine is stopped) A clear switch 90921 is provided as an operation means for clearing the backup data stored in the storage means.

  On the back side of the gaming machine, a terminal board 90160 provided with terminals for outputting various types of information to the outside of the gaming machine is installed above. The terminal board 90160 externally outputs at least a ball break terminal for introducing and outputting the ball break detection switch output, an award ball terminal for outputting a prize ball number signal and a ball lending number signal externally. A ball lending terminal is provided. In addition, an information terminal board (information output board) 9034 provided with terminals for outputting various types of information from the main board 9031 to the outside of the gaming machine is provided near the center.

  The game balls stored in the storage tank 9038 pass through the guide rails, reach the ball payout device covered with the prize ball case 9040A through the curve rod. Above the ball payout device, a ball break switch 90187 is provided as a game medium break detection means. When the ball break switch 90187 detects a ball break, the payout operation of the ball payout device stops. The ball break switch 90187 is a switch for detecting the presence or absence of a game ball in the game ball passage, but the ball break detection switch 90167 for detecting the shortage of supply balls in the storage tank 9038 is also an upstream portion (in the storage tank 9038) of the guide rail. (Proximate part). When the ball break detection switch 90167 detects a shortage of game balls, the game machine is replenished to the game machine from the supply mechanism provided on the gaming machine installation island.

  When a lot of game balls as prizes based on winning prizes and game balls based on ball lending requests are paid out and the hitting ball supply tray 903 is filled, and the game balls are further paid out, the game balls pass through the surplus ball passage and are surplus balls. Guided to a tray 904. Further, when the game ball is paid out, the sensing lever presses the full tank switch as the storage state detection means, and the full tank switch as the storage state detection means is turned on. In this state, the rotation of the payout motor in the ball payout device stops, the operation of the ball payout device stops, and the drive of the launching device also stops.

  FIG. 23 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a circuit configuration in the main board 9031. FIG. 23 also shows a payout control board 9037 equipped with payout control means and an effect control board 9080 equipped with effect control means. The main board 9031 includes a basic circuit 9053 for controlling the pachinko gaming machine 901 according to a program, a gate switch 9032a, a start port switch 9014a, a V winning switch 9022, a count switch 9023, winning port switches 9029a, 9030a, 9033a, 9039a, and Basically, a switch circuit 9058 for supplying a signal from the clear switch 90921 to the basic circuit 9053, a solenoid 9016 for opening and closing the variable winning ball device 9015, a solenoid 9021 for opening and closing the opening and closing plate 9020, and a solenoid 9021A for switching the path in the big winning opening. A solenoid circuit 9059 that is driven according to a command from the circuit 9053 is mounted.

  Although not shown in FIG. 23, the count switch short circuit signal is also transmitted to the basic circuit 9053 via the switch circuit 9058. Further, the switches such as the gate switch 9032a, the start port switch 9014a, the V prize switch 9022, the count switch 9023, the prize port switches 9029a, 9030a, 9033a, and 9039a may be referred to as sensors. That is, the name of the game medium detection means is not limited as long as it is a game medium detection means (game ball detection means in this example) that can detect a game ball.

  Further, according to the data given from the basic circuit 9053, the jackpot information indicating the occurrence of the jackpot, the effective starting information indicating the number of starting winning balls used for starting the variable display of the symbols in the variable display device 909, the probability variation has occurred. An information output circuit 9064 for outputting an information output signal such as probability variation information indicating the above to an external device such as a hall computer is mounted.

  The basic circuit 9053 includes a ROM 9054 for storing a game control program and the like, a RAM 9055 as storage means (means for storing variation data) used as a work memory, a CPU 9056 for performing control operations according to the program, and an I / O port unit 9057. including. In this embodiment, the ROM 9054 and the RAM 9055 are built in the CPU 9056. That is, the CPU 9056 is a one-chip microcomputer. The one-chip microcomputer only needs to incorporate at least the RAM 9055, and the ROM 9054 and the I / O port unit 9057 may be externally attached or incorporated. Since the CPU 9056 executes control according to a program stored in the ROM 9054, the CPU 9056 will hereinafter execute (or perform processing). Specifically, the CPU 9056 executes control according to the program. is there. The same applies to CPUs mounted on substrates other than the main substrate 9031.

  In addition, a RAM (which may be a CPU built-in RAM) 9055 is a backup RAM that is partially or entirely backed up by a backup power source created in the power supply board 90910. That is, even if the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, a part or all of the contents of the RAM 9055 are saved for a predetermined period.

  The main board 9031 is supplied with the VSL voltage (DC + 30V) from the power supply board 90910 and becomes low level (reset level) when the VSL voltage is lower than the predetermined potential, and high level when the VSL voltage is higher than the predetermined potential. A reset circuit 9065 for generating a reset signal is mounted. The reset signal is input to the reset terminal of the CPU 9056.

  A power monitoring circuit 90920 is mounted on the main board 9031. The power supply monitoring circuit 90920 detects the occurrence of power supply stoppage to the gaming machine by introducing the VSL voltage (DC + 30V) from the power supply board 90910 and monitoring the VSL voltage. Specifically, when the VSL voltage becomes equal to or lower than a predetermined value (+22 V in this example), a power cut-off signal (power supply stop signal, that is, a detection signal from the power supply monitoring means) is output as a power supply stop occurs (specifically In fact, set it to low level.) The power-off signal is input to the input port. When a power-off signal is input to the input port, the CPU 9056 executes a power supply stop process. In the power supply stop process, necessary information (information necessary for continuing the game process from the power supply stop state when the power supply is restored) is stored in the backup RAM (for example, parity data). Execute the setting process. In addition, a flag indicating that the power supply stop process has been performed is set.

  The input of a power-off signal (detection signal from the power monitoring means) to the input port means that the level of the power-off signal has reached a level indicating power-off. The state at the level shown is the state where the detection signal is released.

  A ball hitting device for hitting and launching a game ball is driven by a drive motor 9094 controlled by a circuit on the launch control board 9091. Then, the driving force of the drive motor 9094 is adjusted according to the operation amount of the operation knob 905. That is, the circuit on the launch control board 9091 is controlled so that the game ball is launched at a speed corresponding to the operation amount of the operation knob 905.

  In this embodiment, the effect control means mounted on the effect control board 9080 controls the display of the normal symbol start memory display 9041 and the decoration lamp 9025 provided on the game board, and on the frame side. Display control of the provided top frame lamp 9028a, left frame lamp 9028b, and right frame lamp 9028c is performed. The effect control means mounted on the effect control board 9080 also performs display control of a variable display device 909 that variably displays special symbols and a normal symbol display 9010 that variably displays normal symbols.

  FIG. 24 is a block diagram showing components related to payout, such as components of the payout control board 9037 and the ball payout device 9097. As shown in FIG. 24, the detection signal from the full switch 9048 is input to the input port 90372 b of the payout control board 9037 via the relay board 9072. A detection signal from the ball break switch 90187 is also input to the input port 90372b of the payout control board 9037 via the relay board 9072. The detection signal from the payout count switch 90301 is input to the input port 90372b of the payout control board 9037 via the relay board 9072. The payout count switch 90301 detects a game ball actually paid out from the ball payout device 9097.

  The payout control CPU 90371 of the payout control board 9037 pays off the ball when the detection signal from the ball short switch 90187 indicates a full ball state or when the detection signal from the full tank switch 9048 indicates a full tank state. Stop processing.

  When there is a win, the output circuit 9067 of the main board 9031 outputs a REQ signal (prize ball request signal) for making a payout request for a prize ball and a payout number signal indicating the number of prize balls to be paid out as a payout command signal. Is done. The payout number signal is composed of 4-bit data and is output by four signal lines. The payout number signal is input to the I / O port 90372a via the input circuit 90373A. When a REQ signal and a payout number signal are input via the I / O port 90372a, the payout control CPU 90371 controls to drive the ball payout device 9097 to pay out the number of game balls indicated by the payout number signal. Note that a power supply confirmation signal is also output from the output circuit 9067 of the main board 9031.

  When the payout control board 9037 is executing a prize ball payout process, the main board 9031 has a BUSY signal (indicating that the payout process is being output via the output circuit 90373B of the payout control board 9037). The winning ball payout signal) is input. Further, the payout control CPU 90371 outputs a payout prohibition signal to the main board 9031 in the payout prohibition state. In this embodiment, the payout control CPU 90371 is a one-chip microcomputer and has at least a RAM.

  The payout control CPU 90371 sends a prize ball information signal indicating the number of prize balls to be paid and a ball lending number signal indicating the number of balls lent to the terminal board (the frame external terminal board and the board external terminal board) via the output port 90372c. Output) 90160. Note that a driver circuit is provided outside the output port 90372c, but is omitted in FIG. In addition, a door opening information switch 90161 is connected to the terminal board 90160 (frame external terminal board).

  Also, the payout control CPU 90371 outputs an error signal to the error display LED 90374 via the input / output port 90372d. Further, a signal for instructing the lamp to be turned on / off is output to the winning ball lamp 9051 and the out-of-ball lamp 9052 via the output port 90372f. A detection signal from an error release switch 90375 for releasing the error state is input to the input / output port 90372d of the payout control board 9037. The error cancel switch 90375 is used to cancel the error state by software reset.

  Further, a detection signal from the payout motor position sensor for detecting the rotational position of the payout motor 90289 is input to the input port 90372b of the payout control board 9037 via the relay board 9072. A drive signal from the payout control board 9037 to the payout motor 90289 is transmitted to the payout motor 90289 in the payout mechanism part of the ball payout device 9097 via the output port 90372c and the relay board 9072. A driver circuit (motor drive circuit) is installed outside the output port 90372c, but is not shown in FIG.

  The card unit 9050 is equipped with a card unit control microcomputer. In addition, the card unit 9050 is provided with an available display lamp 90151, a connecting table direction indicator 90153, a card insertion display lamp 90154, and a card insertion slot 90155 (see FIG. 20). The interface board 9066 is connected with a frequency display LED 9060, a ball lending LED 9061, a ball lending switch 9062 and a return switch 9063 provided in the vicinity of the hitting ball supply tray 903.

  A card lending switch signal indicating that the ball lending switch 9062 has been operated and a return switch signal indicating that the return switch 9063 has been operated are provided from the interface board 9066 to the card unit 9050 in accordance with the player's operation. . Further, a card balance display signal indicating a prepaid card balance and a ball lending display signal are given from the card unit 9050 to the interface board 9066. Between the card unit 9050 and the payout control board 9037, a connection signal (VL signal), a unit operation signal (BRDY signal), a ball lending request signal (BRQ signal), a ball lending completion signal (EXS signal) and a pachinko machine operation signal ( PRDY signal) is exchanged via the input port 90372g and the output port 90372e. An interface board 9066 is interposed between the card unit 9050 and the payout control board 9037. Therefore, a signal such as a connection signal (VL signal) is exchanged between the card unit 9050 and the payout control board 9037 via the interface board 9066 as shown in FIG.

  When the power of the pachinko gaming machine 901 is turned on, the payout control CPU 90371 of the payout control board 9037 outputs a PRDY signal to the card unit 9050. The card unit control microcomputer outputs a VL signal. The payout control CPU 90371 determines the connected / unconnected state based on the input state of the VL signal. When a card is received in the card unit 9050, the ball lending switch is operated and a ball lending switch signal is input, the card unit control microcomputer outputs a BRDY signal to the payout control board 9037. When a predetermined delay time elapses from this point, the card unit control microcomputer outputs a BRQ signal to the payout control board 9037.

  Then, the payout control CPU 90371 of the payout control board 9037 raises the EXS signal to the card unit 9050, and when the fall of the BRQ signal from the card unit 9050 is detected, drives the payout motor 90289 to give a predetermined number of rental balls. Pay to the player. When the payout is completed, the payout control CPU 90371 causes the EXS signal to the card unit 9050 to fall. Thereafter, if the BRDY signal from the card unit 9050 is not on, prize ball payout control is executed. The power supply voltage AC24V used in the card unit 9050 is supplied from the payout control board 9037.

  Power supply from the power supply board 90910 to the card unit 9050 is performed via the payout control board 9037 and the interface board 9066. In this example, a fuse for protecting the card unit 9050 is provided in the AC 24V power supply line for the card unit 9050 arranged in the interface board 9066 so that a voltage higher than a predetermined voltage is not supplied to the card unit 9050. I have to.

  In this embodiment, the card unit 9050 is installed adjacent to the gaming machine as a separate body from the gaming machine, but the card unit 9050 may be integrated with the gaming machine. . Further, the present invention can be applied even in the case where game balls corresponding to the amount of money are lent out in accordance with coin insertion.

  FIG. 25 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example around the CPU 9056 in the main board 9031. The CPU 9056 of this embodiment includes terminals D0 to D7, terminals PI0 to PI4, terminal PI5 / XINT, terminal PI6 / XNMI, and terminal PI7 / RX0 as input terminals. Also, PI0 to PI7 are provided as output terminals. In addition, a terminal VBB, a terminal VDD, and a terminal VSS are provided as terminals around the power source.

  The input terminal of the CPU 9056 is divided into two types, a first input terminal and a second input terminal. The first input terminals (terminals D0 to D7 and PI0 to PI4) are terminals that can be used with only one function (input function). On the other hand, the second input terminal (terminal PI5 / XINT, terminal PI6 / XNMI, terminal PI7 / RX0) is a terminal having an input function, an interrupt input function, and two functions. This is a terminal that can be used for functions. In this embodiment, among the three second input terminals (terminal PI5 / XINT, terminal PI6 / XNMI, terminal PI7 / RX0), PI5, PI6, and PI7 included in the terminal names indicate the first function (input function). , XINT, XNMI, and RXO indicate the second function (interrupt input function).

  In this manner, by providing the second input terminal with a plurality of functions, the versatility of the CPU 9056 is improved between different models of gaming machines. In this embodiment, all the second input terminals are not used, but, for example, when the same CPU 9056 is used in another model A, the second input terminal is set to the input function and used. When the same CPU 9056 is used in the model B, it can be considered that the second input terminal is set to the interrupt input function. In addition, the CPU 9056 of this embodiment includes a plurality of second input terminals, and each of the second input terminals can be set with a different interrupt input function, thereby improving versatility.

  Here, the input function is a function for transmitting signals from various external winning switches and the like to the CPU 9056, and the interrupt input function is a predetermined interrupt process (in the case of an input to the input terminal) by the CPU 9056. This is a function for starting normal interrupt processing (maskable interrupt processing) or non-maskable interrupt processing). Normal interrupt processing can be prohibited (masked), but non-maskable interrupt processing cannot be prohibited. In this embodiment, among the second input terminals, the terminal PI5 / XINT is for normal interrupt processing, and the terminals PI6 / XNMI and PI7 / RX0 are for non-maskable interrupt processing. When interrupt processing is set to be valid in the CPU 9056, interrupt processing (normal interrupt processing or non-maskable interrupt processing) is performed when the signal input to the second input terminal falls to a low level. Start. That is, the program counter of the CPU 9056 is changed to the start address of normal interrupt processing or non-maskable interrupt processing, and the CPU 9056 enters a state of executing the instruction set at the start address. Note that the second function (interrupt input function) that can be set in the three second input terminals (terminal PI5 / XINT, terminal PI6 / XNMI, and terminal PI7 / RX0) can be different. That is, it is possible to set different start addresses for non-maskable interrupt processing or normal interrupt processing (maskable interrupt processing) to each second input terminal.

  In the pachinko gaming machine 901 of this embodiment, the terminals D0 to D7 and the terminals PI0 to PI2 of the CPU 9056 are used, and the terminals PI3 to PI4, the terminals PI5 / XINT, the terminals PI6 / XNMI, and the terminals PI7 / RX0 are not used. Yes. Various signals from the outside are input to the terminals D0 to D7 and the terminals PI0 to PI2 to be used via the input port 90572. On the other hand, the unused terminals PI5 / XINT, terminal PI6 / XNMI, and terminal PI7 / RX0 are connected to the ground G or a predetermined voltage Vcc (5 V) depending on the type.

  Here, input terminals (empty input terminals) that are not used in the pachinko gaming machine 901 are classified into two types. One is a first input terminal (terminals PI3 and PI4) having only one function (input function), and the other is a second input terminal having two functions (input function and interrupt input function). (Terminal PI5 / XINT, terminal PI6 / XNMI, terminal PI7 / RX0). In this embodiment, among the unused input terminals, the first input terminal is grounded to the ground G, and the second input terminal is connected to the predetermined voltage Vcc (5 V). This is intended to suppress the influence of noise at the empty input terminal.

  The first input terminal is set to high active. When the input terminal is at a low voltage (low state), the external input is not detected, and when the input terminal is at a high voltage (high state), the external input Detect that there was input from. Although the first input terminal can be set to low active, when it is made high active, the first input terminal that is not used (is used as an empty terminal) is connected to the ground G, so that the solid area of the ground G on the substrate (The area occupied by the conductive portion of the ground G on the substrate) can be increased, and the potential of the ground G can be stabilized. On the other hand, as described above, the second input terminal can be set to two functions (input function, interrupt input function), and when set to the first function (input function), the first input terminal Like, it is used by setting it to high active. In addition, when setting to a 1st function (input function), it is good also as a form set to low active. On the other hand, when the second function (interrupt input function) is set, when the input terminal is at a high voltage (high state), the external interrupt input is not detected and the input terminal is at a low voltage (low state). In this case, it is used by setting it to low active to detect the presence of an external interrupt input.

  In this embodiment, among the empty input terminals, the first input terminals (terminals PI3 and PI4) are high active, and therefore are connected to the ground G (0 V) which is in the low state and no input signal is generated. Yes. On the other hand, the second input terminal (terminal PI5 / XINT, terminal PI6 / XNMI, terminal PI7 / RX0), which is an empty terminal, is connected to the predetermined voltage Vcc (5V) that goes to the high state, thereby generating an interrupt input signal. Not in a state. When the second input terminal is not used and is not used in the same manner as the first input terminal, it is preferable to connect to the ground G in order to increase the solid area of the ground G. However, since the second input terminal of this embodiment can set the second function (interrupt input function), even if the CPU 9056 is erroneously set to the second function, the interrupt processing The second input terminal is connected to a predetermined voltage Vcc that is in a high state so as not to start inadvertently. In particular, the CPU 9056 of this embodiment includes an interrupt input function for starting a non-maskable interrupt process that cannot be prohibited, so that the second input that becomes empty in terms of preventing malfunctions. It is effective to set the pin to the high state.

  The input terminals of the CPU 9056 are arranged in the order shown in the block diagram of FIG. 25 even in an actual chip. In particular, the first input terminals (terminals D0 to D7, terminals PI0 to PI4) and the second input terminals (terminal PI5 / XINT, terminal PI6 / XNMI, terminal PI7 / RX0) are arranged together for each type. Therefore, the first input terminals that are not used (in this example, PI3 and PI4) can be collectively grounded to the ground G, and the solid area of the ground G on the board on which the CPU 9056 is mounted (conduction of the ground G on the board). It is possible to achieve a layout with a wide area). Thus, by securing a wide solid area of the ground G, it is possible to stabilize the reference potential and improve resistance to external noise. In addition, since the second input terminals not used (in this example, the terminal PI5 / XINT, the terminal PI6 / XNMI, and the terminal PI7 / RX0) can be collectively connected to Vcc, a wiring layout for supplying Vcc is used. Can be simplified. Simplifying the wiring layout for supplying Vcc also leads to an increase in the solid area of the ground G.

  The output terminals (PD0 to PD7) of the CPU 9056 output the processing result to the outside via the output port 90573. In the CPU 9056, the terminal VBB and the terminal VDD are terminals around the power supply, the terminal VBB is connected to a backup power supply, the terminal VDD is connected to a predetermined voltage Vcc (5V), and VSS is connected to the ground G. It is connected.

  As described with reference to FIG. 23, the power-off signal from the power supply monitoring circuit (power supply monitoring means; first power supply monitoring means) 90920 is input to the terminal PI0 of the CPU 9056 via the inversion circuit 90943 and the input port 90572. Therefore, the CPU 9056 can confirm the occurrence of the stop of the power supply to the gaming machine by monitoring the terminal PI0 of the input port 90572.

  The power monitoring circuit 90920 includes a power monitoring IC 90902. The power monitoring IC 90902 detects the occurrence of power supply stoppage to the gaming machine by introducing the VSL voltage and monitoring the VSL voltage. Specifically, when the VSL voltage becomes equal to or lower than a predetermined value (+22 V in this example), a power-off signal is output because the power supply is stopped. The power supply voltage to be monitored is preferably higher than the power supply voltage (+5 V in this example) of the circuit element mounted on each electric component control board. In this example, VSL, which is a voltage immediately after being converted from AC to DC, is used.

  The predetermined value for the power monitoring IC 90902 to detect the stop of power supply is lower than the normal voltage, but is a voltage that allows the CPU 9056 to operate for a while. Further, since the power monitoring IC 90902 is higher than the voltage (+5 V in this example) for driving circuit elements such as the CPU 9056, the monitoring range can be expanded with respect to the voltage required by the CPU. Therefore, more precise monitoring can be performed. Furthermore, when VSL (+ 30V) is used as the monitoring voltage, the voltage supplied to the various switches of the gaming machine is + 12V, so that it can be expected to prevent erroneous switch-on detection at the time of instantaneous power interruption. That is, when the voltage of the + 30V power supply is monitored, it is possible to detect a decrease in the level before + 12V created after + 30V creation starts to drop.

  When the voltage of the + 12V power supply decreases, the switch output becomes on. However, if the power supply voltage is monitored by monitoring the + 30V power supply voltage, which decreases faster than + 12V, and the power supply is stopped, the switch output is turned on. It is possible to enter a supply recovery waiting state and not detect the switch output.

  The reset circuit 9065 includes a reset IC 90651. The reset IC 90651 sets the output to the low level for a predetermined time determined by the capacity of the external capacitor when the power is turned on, and sets the output to the high level when the predetermined time has elapsed. That is, the reset signal (system reset signal) is raised to a high level to make the CPU 9056 operable. Note that the reset signal is input to the reset terminal (RESET) of the CPU 9056 via the inverting circuits 90942 and 90941.

  Further, the reset IC 90651 monitors the power supply voltage of the VSL, which is the power supply voltage equal to the power supply voltage monitored by the power supply monitoring circuit 90920, and the voltage value is a predetermined value (than the power supply voltage value at which the power supply monitoring circuit outputs a power-off signal). When the value is less than (low value), the output goes low. Therefore, the CPU 9056 performs a predetermined power supply stop process in response to the power-off signal from the power supply monitoring circuit 90920 and then resets the system. That is, the operation is completely stopped. Therefore, the reset circuit 9065 corresponds to a second power supply monitoring unit that outputs the detection signal at a timing later than the timing at which the power supply monitoring unit outputs the detection signal. In this example, the state in which the second power supply monitoring unit outputs the detection signal is a state in which the reset signal is set to a low level.

  FIG. 26 is an explanatory diagram showing input terminal assignment of the CPU 9056 in the pachinko gaming machine 901 of this embodiment. The assignment of input terminals in the CPU 9056 is performed in a main process (described in detail later) that starts after the pachinko gaming machine 901 is activated. Although the same CPU 9056 is used depending on the model of the pachinko gaming machine 901, the terminal to be used and the function to be used may be different. Such a case can be dealt with by changing the input terminal assignment according to the model of the pachinko gaming machine 901. The pachinko gaming machine 901 of this embodiment includes terminals D0 to D7, terminals PI0 to PI4, terminals PI5 / XINT, terminals PI6 / XNMI, and terminals PI7 / RX0 as described in FIG. Among these, the terminals D0 to D7 and the terminals PI0 to PI4 are first input terminals T1 that are used only for one function (input function). The terminals PI5 / XINT, the terminals PI6 / XNMI, and the terminals PI7 / RX0 are 2 This is a second input terminal T2 having two functions (input function and interrupt input function).

  In the first input terminal T1, the terminals D0 to D7 and the terminals PI0 to PI2 are set to be connected to various switches. These first input terminals T1 detect an “on” state or a “power-off” state when the logic is “1” (high voltage state), and are when the logic is “0” (low voltage state). The high active state is set in which these states are not detected. On the other hand, among the first input terminals, unused terminals (terminals PI3 and PI4) are fixed to 0 (connected to the ground G), and there is no input signal.

  In the pachinko gaming machine 901 of this embodiment, the second input terminal T2 of the CPU 9056 is not used. When the second input terminal T2 is not used, it is connected to the predetermined voltage Vcc. The second input terminal T2 can be set to two functions (input function and interrupt input function) or unused based on the setting in the CPU 9056 (set in the main process executed when the pachinko gaming machine 901 is started). Is possible. However, it is conceivable that a function (input function or interrupt input function) is set in the second input terminal T2 that is to be an empty terminal. In particular, when the interrupt input function is set by mistake, it is conceivable that the interrupt process is activated by noise or the like input to the second input terminal T2 that should be an empty terminal. If the interrupt process is inadvertently activated, the pachinko gaming machine 901 will not operate normally. In this embodiment, the second input terminal T2, which should not be used, is connected to a high voltage (Vcc) which is an interrupt process OFF state, so that the interrupt input function is erroneously applied to the second input terminal T2. Even when is set, malfunction is prevented.

  Next, the operation of the gaming machine will be described. FIG. 27 is a flowchart showing main processing executed by game control means (CPU 9056 and peripheral circuits such as ROM and RAM) on the main board 9031. When power is turned on to the gaming machine and the input level of the reset terminal becomes high level, the CPU 9056 starts main processing after step S901. In the main process, the CPU 9056 first performs necessary initial settings.

  In the initial setting process, the CPU 9056 first sets the interrupt prohibition (step S901). Next, the interrupt mode is set to interrupt mode 2 (step S902). The CPU 9056 used in this embodiment provides the following three types of maskable (prohibitable) interrupt modes. When a maskable interrupt occurs, the CPU 9056 automatically sets the interrupt disabled state and saves the contents of the program counter in the stack.

  Interrupt mode 0: The built-in device that has issued the interrupt request sends an RST instruction (1 byte) or a CALL instruction (3 bytes) onto the internal data bus of the CPU. Therefore, the CPU 9056 executes an instruction at an address corresponding to the RST instruction or an address specified by the CALL instruction. At reset, the CPU 9056 automatically enters interrupt mode 0. Therefore, when setting to interrupt mode 1 or interrupt mode 2, it is necessary to perform a process for setting to interrupt mode 1 or interrupt mode 2 in the initial setting process.

  Interrupt mode 1: In this mode, when an interrupt is accepted, the mode always jumps to address 0038 (h).

  Interrupt mode 2: A mode in which the address synthesized from the value (1 byte) of the specific register (I register) of the CPU 9056 and the interrupt vector (1 byte: least significant bit 0) output from the built-in device indicates the interrupt address It is. That is, the interrupt address is an address indicated by 2 bytes in which the upper address is the value of the specific register and the lower address is the interrupt vector. Therefore, an interrupt process can be set at an arbitrary address (although it is skipped). Each built-in device has a function of sending an interrupt vector when making an interrupt request.

  Therefore, when the interrupt mode 2 is set, it becomes possible to easily process an interrupt request from each built-in device, and it is possible to install an interrupt process at an arbitrary position in the program. . Furthermore, unlike interrupt mode 1, it is also easy to prepare each interrupt process for each interrupt generation factor. As described above, in this embodiment, the CPU 9056 is set to the interrupt mode 2 in step S902 of the initial setting process.

  After setting interrupt mode 2, the CPU 9056 sets a stack pointer designation address in the stack pointer (step S903). Then, the built-in device register is initialized (step S904). Further, after initialization of the CTC (timer / counter circuit) built in the CPU 9056 and setting of the input terminal and output terminal (PIO: parallel input / output port) (step S905), the RAM is set to an accessible state. (Step S906).

  As described in FIG. 25, the CPU 9056 used in this embodiment has a plurality of input terminals and output terminals (both terminals are referred to as PIO). In step S904, the function of each input terminal and output terminal is set. As described above, since the second input terminal T2 can be set to different functions (input function and interrupt input function), it can be set according to the difference in the type of the pachinko gaming machine 901. is there. The PIO setting is performed by reading the setting for each terminal defined during the main process. The setting for each terminal is read from a storage unit in the CPU 9056 or an external storage unit such as a ROM 9054 or a RAM 9055. In the examples of FIGS. 25 and 26, the second input terminal T2 is set as an unused empty terminal. In this embodiment, when an input function is set to the second input terminal T2, it is set to high active which is a logic “1”. Note that when an input function is set to the second input terminal T2, it may be set to low active which is a logic “0”. Further, when the interrupt input function is set to the second input terminal T2, it is set to low active which is a logic “0”. Thus, in this embodiment, by preparing the second input terminal T2 that can be set to a plurality of functions, an increase in the number of input terminals is suppressed, and versatility among pachinko gaming machine 901 models is enhanced. ing. At this time, when the second input terminal T2 is unused (empty terminal), the interrupt input function is not erroneously operated by connecting the second input terminal T2 to the predetermined voltage Vcc. Yes.

  Next, the CPU 9056 checks the state of the output signal of the clear switch 90921 input to the terminal PI2 via the input port only once (step S907). If ON is detected in the confirmation, the CPU 9056 executes normal initialization processing (steps S9011 to S9015). When the clear switch 90921 is on (when pressed), a high-level clear switch signal is output to the terminal PI2 of the input port 90572. By starting the power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 901 (for example, turning on the power switch) while the clear switch 90921 is turned on by an operation of a game store clerk or the like, the initialization process can be easily executed. That is, RAM clear or the like can be performed.

  If the clear switch 90921 is not in the on state, the data protection processing of the backup RAM area (for example, processing at the time of power supply stop such as addition of parity data) is performed when the power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 901 was stopped last time. It is confirmed whether it has been received (step S908). In this embodiment, when power supply is stopped, a process for protecting data in the backup RAM area is performed. When such protection processing is performed, it is assumed that there is a backup. If it is confirmed that such protection processing has not been performed, the CPU 9056 executes initialization processing.

  In this embodiment, whether or not there is backup data in the backup RAM area is confirmed by the state of the backup flag set in the backup RAM area in the power supply stop process. For example, if “55H” is set in the backup flag area, it means that there is a backup (ON state), and if a value other than “55H” is set, it means that there is no backup (OFF state).

  After confirming that there is a backup, the CPU 9056 performs a data check of the backup RAM area (parity check in this example) (step S909). In this embodiment, clear data (00) is set in the checksum data area, and the checksum calculation start address is set in the pointer. Also, the number of checksum calculations corresponding to the number of data to be checksum is set. Then, the exclusive OR of the contents of the checksum data area and the contents of the RAM area pointed to by the pointer is calculated. The calculation result is stored in the checksum data area, the pointer value is incremented by 1, and the checksum calculation count value is decremented by 1. The above processing is repeated until the value of the checksum calculation count becomes zero. When the value of the checksum calculation count becomes 0, the CPU 9056 inverts the value of each bit of the contents of the checksum data area, and uses the inverted data as the checksum.

  In the power supply stop process, a checksum is calculated by the same process as described above, and the checksum is stored in the backup RAM area. In step S909, the calculated checksum is compared with the stored checksum. 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 9056 performs a game state restoration process for returning the internal state of the game control means to the state when the power supply is stopped (step S9010). Then, the saved value of the PC (program counter) stored in the backup RAM area is set in the PC, and the address is restored.

  In the initialization process (steps S9011 to S9015), the CPU 9056 first performs a RAM clear process for clearing the entire area of the RAM (step S9011). Note that the entire area of the RAM may not be initialized, and predetermined data (for example, count value data of a counter for generating a big hit determination random number) may be left as it is. For example, if the count value data of the counter for generating the big hit determination random number is left as it is, the big hit determination random number is generated even if the initialization process is executed by unauthorized means. Therefore, it is difficult to aim at the timing at which the count value of the counter matches the jackpot determination value. In addition, a predetermined work area (for example, a normal symbol determination random number counter, a normal symbol determination buffer, a special symbol left middle right symbol buffer, a total winning ball number storage buffer, a special symbol process flag, a winning ball flag, a ball running flag Then, a work area setting process for setting an initial value to a flag for selectively performing processing according to the control state such as a payout stop flag is performed (step S9012).

  Further, the CPU 9056 executes processing for transmitting an initialization command for initializing the effect control board 9080 to the effect control board 9080 (step S9014). Examples of the initialization command include a command indicating an initial symbol displayed on the variable display device 909.

  Then, the CTC3 register provided in the CPU 9056 is set so that a timer interrupt is periodically generated every 2 ms (step S9015). That is, a value corresponding to 2 ms is set in a predetermined register (time constant register) as an initial value.

  The interrupt based on the count-up of CTC channel 3 (CH3) is an interrupt that occurs when the internal clock (system clock) of the CPU is counted down and the register value becomes “0”. Specifically, a clock obtained by dividing the operation clock of the CPU 9056 is supplied to the CTC, the register value is subtracted by the input of the clock, and when the register value becomes 0, a timer interrupt occurs. For example, the register value of CH3 is subtracted at 1/256 period of the system clock. Since the subtraction is performed based on the divided clock, the initial value of the register does not increase. In step S9015, a value corresponding to 2 ms is set in the CH3 register as an initial value.

  When the initialization process (steps S9011 to S9015) is completed, the display random number update process (step S9017) and the initial value random number update process (step S9018) are repeatedly executed in the main process. When the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process are executed, the interrupt disabled state is set (step S9016). When the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process are finished, the interrupt enabled state is set. (Step S9019). The display random number is a random number for determining the symbol displayed on the variable display device 909, and the display random number update process is a process for updating the count value of the counter for generating the display random number. . The initial value random number update process is a process for updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number. The initial value random number is a random number for determining an initial value of a count value such as a counter for generating a random number for determining whether or not to make a big hit (a big hit determination random number generation counter). In a game control process described later, when the count value of the jackpot determination random number generation counter makes one round, an initial value is set in the counter.

  Note that when the display random number update process is executed, the interrupt is prohibited. The display random number update process is also executed in the timer interrupt process described later, and thus conflicts with the process in the timer interrupt process. This is to avoid that. That is, if a timer interrupt is generated during the processing of step S9017 and the count value of the counter for generating the display random number is updated during the timer interrupt processing, the continuity of the count value is impaired. There is a case. However, such an inconvenience does not occur if the interrupt disabled state is set during the process of step S9017.

  When a timer interrupt occurs, the CPU 9056 executes a timer interrupt process. FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing the timer interrupt process. This timer interrupt process is executed every 2 ms. In the timer interrupt process, first, after performing a register saving process (step S9019) and a power-off confirmation process (step S9020), the game control process P of S9021 to S9033 is executed. In the game control process P, the CPU 9056 first inputs detection signals of switches such as the gate switch 9032a, the start port switch 9014a, the count switch 9023, and the winning port switches 9029a, 9030a, 9033a, and 9039a via the switch circuit 9058. These state determinations are made (switch processing: step S9021). Note that the power-off confirmation process (step S9020) is substantially executed first in the timer interrupt process.

  Next, a process of updating the count value of each counter for generating each determination random number such as a big hit determination random number used for game control is performed (step S9022). The CPU 9056 further performs a process of updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number and the display random number (steps S9023 and S9024).

  Furthermore, the CPU 9056 performs special symbol process processing (step S9025). In the special symbol process control, a corresponding process is selected and executed according to a special symbol process flag for controlling the pachinko gaming machine 901 in a predetermined order according to the gaming state. The value of the special symbol process flag is updated during each process according to the gaming state. Further, the normal symbol process is performed (step S9026). In the normal symbol process, the corresponding process is selected and executed according to the normal symbol process flag for controlling the display state of the normal symbol display 9010 in a predetermined order. The value of the normal symbol process flag is updated during each process according to the gaming state.

  Next, the CPU 9056 performs a process of setting an effect control command related to the special symbol in a predetermined area of the RAM 9055 and sending the effect control command (special symbol command control process: step S9027). In addition, processing for setting the effect control command related to the normal symbol in a predetermined area of the RAM 9055 and sending the effect control command is performed (normal symbol command control processing: step S9028).

  Furthermore, the CPU 9056 performs information output processing for outputting data such as jackpot information, start information, probability variation information supplied to the hall management computer, for example (step S9029).

  Further, the CPU 9056 executes a prize ball process for setting the number of prize balls based on detection signals from the winning opening switches 9029a, 9030a, 9033a, 9039a and the like (step S9030). Specifically, a payout control command indicating the number of winning balls is output to the payout control board 9037 in response to detection of winning based on any of the winning opening switches 9029a, 9030a, 9033a, 9039a being turned on. The payout control CPU mounted on the payout control board 9037 drives the ball payout device 9097 according to a payout control command indicating the number of prize balls.

  Then, the CPU 9056 executes a storage process for checking increase / decrease in the number of start winning memories (step S9031). In addition, a test terminal process, which is a process for outputting a test signal for enabling the control state of the gaming machine to be confirmed outside the gaming machine, is executed (step S9032). Further, when a predetermined condition is satisfied, a drive command is issued to the solenoid circuit 9059 (step S9033). The solenoid circuit 9059 drives the solenoids 9016, 9021, and 9021A in accordance with the drive command in order to open or close the variable winning ball device 9015 or the opening / closing plate 9020, or to switch the game ball passage in the special winning opening. To do. Thereafter, the contents of the register are restored (step S9034), and the interrupt enabled state is set (step S9035).

  The timer interrupt process including the game control process P of this embodiment is started every 2 ms. In this embodiment, the game control process P is executed in 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 P May be executed in the main process.

  As described above, in this embodiment, the CPU 9056 arranged on the main board 9031 of the pachinko gaming machine 901 has been described as an example of the electronic device of the gaming machine, but the electronic device includes a plurality of input terminals and performs processing. The configuration to be executed is not limited to the CPU 9056, and other configurations can be targeted. For example, the present invention is applied to a VDP (Video Display Processor) that is mounted on the effect control board 9080 of FIG. 23 and forms an image to be displayed on the variable display device 909, or a payout control CPU mounted on the payout control board 9037. Is possible.

  In this embodiment, the second input terminal, which is an empty terminal, is connected to the predetermined voltage Vcc to prevent the interrupt process having the predetermined function from being performed carelessly. On the contrary to the form, a form in which the second input terminal which is an empty terminal is connected to the ground G is also conceivable. In such a form, when a predetermined function (interrupt processing) is erroneously set in the second input terminal that is an empty terminal, the pachinko gaming machine 901 malfunctions by intentionally executing the interrupt processing. Thus, it becomes possible to quickly notice a mistake in setting of the CPU 9056 (program setting of the CPU 9056). Such a configuration makes it possible to find a setting error in the product development stage, and to prevent the CPU 9056 from being shipped as a product while the setting of the CPU 9056 is incorrect.

  Note that the pachinko gaming machine 901 of each of the above embodiments has a predetermined game value given to the player when the special symbol stop symbol variably displayed on the variable display device 909 based on the start winning is a combination of the predetermined symbols. The first type pachinko gaming machine that can be granted, the second type pachinko that can be given a predetermined game value to the player if there is a winning in a predetermined area of the electric game that is released based on the start winning A third-class pachinko machine where a predetermined right is generated or continued when there is a prize for a predetermined electric combination that is released when a stop symbol of a symbol that is variably displayed based on a starting prize is a combination of a predetermined pattern The present invention can also be applied to a gaming machine or an enclosed pachinko gaming machine that counts prize balls inside without awarding balls outside.

  Further, the present invention is not limited to pachinko gaming machines in which the game medium is a game ball, and the present invention can also be applied to a gaming machine such as a slot machine such as a medal.

1 Pachinko machine 8L, 8R Speaker 9 Game effect LED
41, 42 Volume adjustment button 60 Opening detection sensor 120 Production control CPU
300 Volume change switch 901 Pachinko gaming machine 902 Glass door frame 903 Hitting ball supply tray 904 Surplus ball receiving tray 905 Operation knob 906 Game board 907 Game area 909 Variable display device 9010 Normal symbol display 9014 Start winning opening 9014a Start opening switch 9015 Variable winning ball Device 9016 Solenoid 9020 Opening / closing plate 9021 Solenoid 9021A Solenoid 9022 V winning switch 9023 Count switch 9025 Decoration lamp 9026 Out port 9027 Speakers 9028a to 9028c Top frame lamp 9029 Winning port switch 9030a Winning port switch 9030a Winning port switch 9031 Main board 9032 Gate 9032a Gate switch 9033 Winning port 9033a Winning port switch 9037 Dispensing control board 9038 Storage tank 9039 Prize opening 9039a Prize opening switch 9040A Prize ball case 9041 Normal symbol start memory display 9048 Full switch 9049 Variable display control unit 9050 Card unit 9051 Prize ball lamp 9052 Out of ball lamp 9053 Basic circuit 9054 ROM
9055 RAM
9056 CPU
9057 I / O port 9090 Switch circuit 9059 Solenoid circuit 9060 Frequency display LED
9061 LED for lending ball
9062 Switch 9063 Return switch 9064 Information output circuit 9065 Reset circuit 9066 Interface board 9067 Output circuit 9072 Relay board 9080 Production control board 9091 Launch control board 9094 Drive motor 9097 Ball dispenser 90151 Usable display lamp 90153 Linking table direction indicator 90154 Card insertion Indicator lamp 90155 Card insertion slot 90156 Card unit lock 90160 Terminal board 90161 Door open information switch 90167 Ball break detection switch 90187 Ball break switch 90289 Discharge motor 90301 Discharge count switch 90371 Discharge control CPU
90372a I / O port 90372b, g Input port 90372c, e, f Output port 90372d Input / output port 90373A Input circuit 90373B Output circuit 90374 Error display LED
90375 Error release switch 90572 Input port 90573 Output port 90651 Reset IC
90902 IC for power monitoring
90910 Power supply board 90914 Power switch 90920 Power supply monitoring circuit 90921 Clear switch 90941 to 90943 Inversion circuit D0 to D7 Input terminal (first input terminal T1)
PI0 to PI4 input terminals (first input terminal T1)
PI5 / XINT output terminal (second input terminal T2)
PI6 / XNMI output terminal (second input terminal T2)
PI7 / RX0 output terminal (second input terminal T2)
G Ground Vcc Predetermined voltage

Claims (2)

A gaming machine capable of playing games,
An electronic device comprising a first input terminal and a second input terminal;
A sound output unit capable of outputting sound;
Volume setting means capable of setting the volume of the sound output from the sound output unit;
A specific sound output means capable of outputting a specific sound when the volume is set by the volume setting means;
With
The second input terminal can be set to low active or high active, and is set to low active when a predetermined function is used.
When the second input terminal is an empty terminal, the second input terminal is connected to a power line,
When the first input terminal is an empty terminal, the first input terminal is connected to the ground,
The volume setting means can set a reference volume serving as a reference for the volume of the sound output from the sound output unit,
The specific sound output means, the volume to be set when the volume other than the reference volume outputs the specific sound by sound volume corresponding to the volume to be set when it is set, the reference sound volume is set A game machine characterized in that the specific sound is output at a louder volume than a corresponding volume.   Equipped with error sound output means that can output error sound when an error occurs,
  The specific sound is not output when the error sound is output by the error sound output means.
  The gaming machine according to claim 1.