JP6442583B2 - Game machine manufacturing method and game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a game machine manufacturing method and a game machine.

  Conventionally, a game called pachislot, comprising a plurality of reels each having a plurality of symbols arranged on each surface, a start switch, a stop switch, a stepping motor provided for each reel, and a control unit. The machine is known. The start switch detects that the start lever has been operated by the player (hereinafter also referred to as “start operation”) after a game medium such as a medal or coin has been inserted into the gaming machine, and the rotation of all reels is detected. Outputs a signal requesting start. The stop switch detects that a stop button provided for each reel has been pressed by the player (hereinafter also referred to as “stop operation”), and outputs a signal requesting the rotation of the corresponding reel to stop. To do. The stepping motor transmits the driving force to the corresponding reel. Further, the control unit controls the operation of the stepping motor based on the signals output from the start switch and the stop switch, and performs the rotation operation and stop operation of each reel.

  In such a gaming machine, when a start operation is detected, lottery processing using random numbers (hereinafter referred to as “internal lottery processing”) is performed on the program, and the result of the lottery (hereinafter referred to as “internal winning combination”). And the rotation of the reel is stopped based on the timing of the stop operation. Then, when the rotation of all the reels is stopped and the symbol combination related to the winning is displayed, a privilege corresponding to the symbol combination is given to the player. As an example of a privilege granted to a player, a replay (hereinafter also referred to as “replay”) in which an internal lottery process is performed again without paying out game media (medals, etc.) or consuming the game media. An operation of a bonus game in which a game medium payout opportunity increases can be cited.

  In addition, in the gaming machine configured as described above, there is known a gaming machine that is in an advantageous state for a player when a combination of specific symbols is displayed during a predetermined period in which a plurality of games are performed. In addition, various effects are performed according to the internal winning combination, the presence or absence of winning, and other situations in the game. Such an effect is performed, for example, by displaying an effect image on a liquid crystal display device included in the gaming machine, outputting sound from a speaker, or lighting a lamp. Since the gaming machine that performs such an effect can predict the internal winning combination, the contents of the privilege, the development of the game, and the like, the player's interest can be further improved.

  In the gaming machine that displays the effect image on the liquid crystal display device as described above, as shown in Patent Document 1, the programmer creates table data so that the effect can be executed by the gaming machine, and the effect animation It is necessary to incorporate data and the like into the game machine as performance data.

JP 2009-261705 A

  However, in the gaming machine disclosed in Patent Document 1, a programmer creates table data and a program based on the production specifications and incorporates production data including production data and production video data into the gaming machine. There is a problem that man-hours are extremely large.

  In addition, in order to confirm (debug) the production data incorporated in the gaming machine, after actually creating a medium (for example, ROM) mounted on the actual machine and operating the gaming machine using the medium, The production must be displayed and played back for confirmation, and the enormous man-hours related to these operations are also a problem.

  In recent years, the effects of displaying images on the liquid crystal display device of gaming machines have been steadily increasing in pattern and volume. As a result, the number of programmers described above has further increased, resulting in the development of gaming machines. This increases the cost, and this is also a factor that lowers the profit margin.

  In addition, when a programmer creates table data or a program based on a production specification, there is a problem caused by a human error that a correct presentation expression is not performed in the gaming machine due to a difference in recognition.

  Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to create data (table data or program) for defining the contents of the production based on the production specification, and to play the production data including these data and the animation data for the production. It is an object of the present invention to provide a gaming machine manufacturing method and a gaming machine capable of reducing a programmer's man-hour for an operation such as incorporation into a machine.

  It is another object of the present invention to provide a gaming machine manufacturing method and a gaming machine that can reduce the man-hours for confirming the execution (display / playback) of effects in the gaming machine.

  Furthermore, an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine manufacturing method and a gaming machine capable of reducing human errors caused by a programmer when creating data (table data or a program) based on a production specification. There is.

  In order to solve the above-described problems, the present invention provides a gaming machine manufacturing method and a gaming machine configured as follows.

An effect determining means for determining an effect (for example, an effect lottery process (see FIG. 65, etc.) executed by the sub CPU 81),
Storage means for storing production sequence data defining the content of the production;
A game machine manufacturing method comprising: an effect executing means for executing the effect determined by the effect determining means based on the effect sequence data (for example, a drawing thread (see FIG. 69) executed by the sub CPU 81). Because
Generating the production sequence data (eg, production sequence data 204a (see FIG. 1));
Storing the production sequence data fixedly in the storage means (for example, ROM incorporated in the gaming machine 1), and incorporating the production sequence data in the gaming machine,
The effect sequence data can be executed by the computer other than the gaming machine (for example, the development PC 200), so that the effect relating to the effect can be executed also in the computer.
The production sequence data includes a plurality of first data defining the content of the production according to corresponding production patterns (for example, patterns such as “Ptn1”, “Ptn2”, and “Ptn3”),
Each of the first data defines the contents of the effect associated with a plurality of triggers (for example, triggers such as “Lev”, “RStt”, “1st”, etc.) related to the progress of the game in the gaming machine. Second data to be
The second data is
Production data information (for example, still image data or moving image data designated as “Bind File”) for designating production data used for the production, and execution timing information (for example, “InFrame” for designating execution timing of the production) ", The start timing and period specified by" OutFrame "),
It further has a display means (for example, a display device such as an LCD) for displaying an effect image,
The execution timing information is at least one of a start frame and an end frame when an image is rendered on the display unit by executing an effect based on the effect data information (for example, the execution of the effect starts from what frame "InFrame" indicating whether the presentation is performed, or "OutFrame" indicating which frame ends in the execution of the effect).

  With this configuration of the present invention, it is possible to reduce the man-hours of the programmer for the work of creating table data and programs based on the production specifications and incorporating production data including production data and production video data into the gaming machine. It can be reduced, and the man-hour for confirming display / reproduction of the effect in the gaming machine can be reduced.

A manufacturing method of a gaming machine (for example, gaming machines 1 and 300) according to the second embodiment of the present invention is as follows.
The execution timing information is loop designation information that specifies whether or not to repeat the execution of the effect based on the effect data information under a predetermined condition (for example, a LoopSetting button that specifies whether or not to repeatedly play the bind file) The information set by (1) is included.

A gaming machine (for example, gaming machine 1, 300) according to the third embodiment of the present invention,
Production determining means for determining production,
An effect executing means for executing the effect determined by the effect determining means, and a gaming machine comprising:
The production execution means executes the production based on production sequence data defining the content of the production,
The effect sequence data is read by a computer other than the gaming machine (for example, development PC 200), and the effect related to the effect is also executed by the computer (for example, an effect image is displayed on the display device of the development PC 200). Display (see FIG. 2A)),
The effect sequence data includes a plurality of first data that defines the contents of the effect according to a corresponding effect pattern,
Each of the first data includes second data that defines the contents of the effect, each associated with a plurality of triggers related to the progress of the game in the gaming machine,
The second data is
It is possible to include production data information for designating production data used for the production, and execution timing information for designating execution timing of the production,
It further has a display means for displaying an effect image,
The execution timing information is configured to include at least one of a start frame and an end frame when an image is drawn on the display unit by executing an effect based on the effect data information.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to reduce the man-hours of the programmer for the work of creating table data and programs based on the production specifications and incorporating production data including production data and production video data into the gaming machine. Can do.

  Further, according to the present invention, it is possible to reduce the man-hours for confirming display / reproduction of effects in the gaming machine.

  Furthermore, according to the present invention, it is possible to reduce a human error caused by a programmer when creating table data or a program based on a production specification.

It is a figure explaining the process regarding the production | presentation sequence in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the preview image in development PC, and the display image in a game machine in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the flow of production | presentation sequence edit in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the production | presentation sequence edit screen in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure explaining the data structure of the production | presentation sequence in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the example of the preview process in development PC concerning one Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structural example of PC for development which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing explaining the functional flow in the game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a perspective view which shows the example of an external appearance structure in the game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 shows an internal structure of a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention, and is a perspective view in a state where a front door is opened. It is a block diagram which shows the whole circuit structure with which the game machine of one Embodiment of this invention is provided. It is a block diagram which shows the internal structure of the sub control circuit in the game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the symbol arrangement | positioning table in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the symbol combination table (the 1) in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the table at the time of the bonus action | operation in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of RT transition table in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the internal lottery table determination table in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the internal lottery table for general game states (the 1) in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the internal winning combination determination table for bonuses in one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of the internal winning combination determination table for the small combination and replay (the 1) in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the correspondence table | surface (part 1) of the data pointer for a small combination and replay and display combination in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the number selection table for spinning cylinder stop in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the reel stop initial setting table in one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of the output condition table in one embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the symbol corresponding winning action flag data table in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the display combination storage area in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the game state flag storage area in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the operation stop button storage area | region in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the pressing order storage area | region in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the symbol code storage area in one Embodiment of this invention. It is the transition flow figure of RT state of the gaming machine in one execution form of this invention. It is a figure which shows the correspondence table of the winning combination and stop order in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the correspondence table of the winning combination, stop order, and RT transfer in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a transition flow figure of the sub game state of the gaming machine in one embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the special flag lottery table in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the lottery flag A-1 lottery table in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the ART lottery table (the 1) in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the general medium ART stock area distribution lottery table (the 1) in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the table number determination table at the time of the stock in the general and CZ in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the title lottery table for the development effects 1 in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the production number determination table (the 1) for development effect 1 in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the effect determination table for the development effects 1 in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the scenario rewriting lottery table (the 1) in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the map lottery table (the 1) for development effect 2 in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the effect lottery table number determination table in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the effect number lottery table for table number 1 in the one embodiment of the present invention (part 1). It is a figure which shows an example of the map rewriting lottery table (the 1) in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the production rewriting condition table in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the sub storage area in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the correspondence table of the table number and various states in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the correspondence table of the loop mode data and loop mode in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a main flowchart which shows the process example of the main control circuit of the game machine in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the example of the medal acceptance / start check process in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the example of the internal lottery process in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the example of the lottery value change process in one embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the example of the reel stop initial setting process in one embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the example of the reel stop control process in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the example of RT control processing in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the example of the bonus completion | finish check process in one embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the example of the bonus operation | movement check process in one embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the example of the interruption process by control of main CPU in one embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the example of the main board | substrate communication thread | sled performed by sub CPU in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the example of the process at the time of medal insertion command reception in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the example of the effect registration process in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the example of the process at the time of the start command reception in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the example of the process at the time of the reel rotation start command reception in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the example of the process at the time of the reel stop command reception in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the example of the process at the time of the display command reception in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the example of the drawing thread | sled performed by sub CPU in one Embodiment of this invention.

<Description of processing related to production sequence>
First, referring to FIG. 1, a development PC (personal computer) that executes a production sequence data creation tool used for a method for manufacturing a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention, and a gaming machine that is an actual machine. An outline of the processing of the used effect sequence will be described. FIG. 1 is a diagram conceptually showing processing and data performed on the development PC 200 and the gaming machine 300.

  When the development PC 200 reads the effect definition file 203 defining the specifications of the effects related to the gaming machine, the development PC 200 displays the effect sequence on the display device of the development PC 200 based on the contents of the read effect definition file 203. The effect definition file 203 is defined for each effect pattern, and the effect sequence of each effect pattern includes information related to the effect to be executed for each event corresponding to the trigger. The information related to the effect to be executed is, for example, information for specifying the effect to be executed, information indicating that the previous effect is continued, and the like.

  After the production sequence is edited or corrected on the development PC 200, when conversion processing (conversion) is performed, the production sequence data is built (or bound or compiled), and actual machine data 204 is generated. The actual machine data 204 includes effect sequence data 204a and effect data 204b. Further, the actual machine data 204 may include data for moving an accessory and turning on / off a lamp.

  The effect sequence data 204a is data obtained as a result of editing or modifying the read effect definition file 203, and is data defining the contents of the effect. On the other hand, the effect data 204b is data used for the effect, and image data including still image data, moving image data, 3D data, etc. used for displaying an image on the display device of the gaming machine 300 in the effect, Sound data used for outputting sound from the speaker of the gaming machine 300 in the production is included.

  When the actual machine data 204 is generated, this data is read into the development PC 200, and a preview of the effect is performed by the viewer of the development PC. When an effect preview is performed on the development PC 200, the actual machine data 204 is interpreted by a program in a predetermined library, and the effect related to the effect actually executed on the gaming machine is executed on the development PC 200. For example, an image of an effect related to the effect of the gaming machine is reproduced on the display device of the development PC 200, and a sound related to the effect of the gaming machine is output to the speaker of the development PC 200. Such effects are executed in the order of the set triggers for each effect pattern.

  In addition, when the effect data 204b includes data for moving an accessory, the accessory displayed on the display device in a pseudo manner can be moved according to the data. Furthermore, when the effect data 204b includes data for turning on and off the lamp, the lamp displayed on the display device in a pseudo manner can be turned on or off according to the data. In this way, the performance executed on the development PC 200 may not completely match the performance actually executed on the gaming machine, but the main part of the performance execution mode is executed by the development PC 200. Can be confirmed in advance.

  The user of the development PC 200 confirms the content of the preview displayed on the viewer, and if there is a part different from the specification, corrects the data of the effect sequence, performs conversion again, and generates the actual machine data 204. As described above, the user of the development PC 200 can try to preview the rendering image etc. as many times as possible using the development PC 200 and easily confirm whether or not the contents and timing match the specifications. it can.

  When the confirmation on the development PC 200 is completed, the generated actual machine data 204 is mounted on the gaming machine 300. This implementation is realized, for example, by writing the actual machine data 204 including the control program and the effect sequence data 204a and the effect data 204b into the ROM and incorporating the data into the gaming machine 300. Such mounting (ROM mounting) takes time to write to the ROM or to be incorporated into the gaming machine 300, and thus cannot be easily repeated. Therefore, as in the present invention, previewing and confirming the performance execution mode on the development PC 200 before mounting the ROM is very effective in reducing the development man-hours.

  When the actual machine data 204 is mounted on the gaming machine 300, the presentation of each presentation pattern is executed based on the actual machine data 204 mounted on the ROM, and the presentation image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the gaming machine 300. Is done. The execution of such an effect is performed by a game machine program to be described later, but a test program that sequentially generates a set trigger may be used for each effect pattern. Until now, the contents of the production will be checked for the first time at this stage. However, in the present invention, the development PC 200 performs the check using the same actual machine data 204 in advance, so at this stage. Confirmation and correction work is greatly improved.

  Further, in the development PC 200, the library for reproducing the effect data 204b used for the execution of the effect is basically the same as the library for reproducing the effect data 204b in the gaming machine 300. The content of the confirmed effect is reproduced as it is in the gaming machine 300 with high accuracy. For this reason, the man-hours for confirmation and correction are further reduced.

  Next, effect images displayed on the development PC 200 and the gaming machine 300 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 2A is an effect image displayed on the viewer window 220 of the display device of the development PC 200, and shows a display state of a certain temporary point in the effect movie. 2B is an effect image 310 displayed on the liquid crystal display device of the gaming machine 300, and shows an image corresponding to the effect moving image shown in FIG. 2A (at the same time). Note that the liquid crystal display device of the gaming machine 300 shown in FIG. 2B corresponds to the liquid crystal display device 11 of the gaming machine 1 (pachislot), which will be described later. This is illustrated as a simple rectangular display device.

  FIG. 2C shows a movable accessory 311 (311a and 311b) provided in the approximate center of the liquid crystal display screen of the gaming machine 300, and the vicinity of the four sides of the liquid crystal display screen of the gaming machine 300. The decoration part 312 (312a thru | or 312d) provided is shown. Here, for example, the two pillars that are the movable accessory 311 are controlled so as to move in the left-right direction in accordance with the reproduction of the effect movie, as indicated by arrows.

  With such a configuration of the gaming machine 300, as shown in FIG. 2 (B), the player has a liquid crystal display device disposed behind the movable accessory 311 and the decorative portion 312. The effect image 310 (see FIG. 2B) displayed on the screen is viewed.

  In the development PC 200, as shown in FIG. 2A, the effect image displayed on the gaming machine 300 can be confirmed in advance, but in this example, as shown in FIG. Only the portion of the object 311 and the decoration unit 312 is different from the representation of the effect image in the gaming machine 300.

  However, the development PC 200 prepares a program, artificially generates the movable accessory 311 and the decoration unit 312 provided in the gaming machine 300, and overlays the effect image on the display device of the development PC 200. May be displayed. Further, the movable accessory 311 can be displayed so as to move (on the display device of the development PC 200) in accordance with the movable pattern performed in the effect of the gaming machine 300.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 3, the read effect definition file 203 is displayed as an effect sequence representing the order of effects executed in accordance with the trigger transition in each effect pattern, and the effect sequence is edited. explain. FIG. 3A shows an initial display state of the sequence area 211 on the effect sequence editing screen (which will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 4).

  In FIG. 3A, a trigger managed in the performance execution of the gaming machine 300 is displayed in the trigger display area 211a. In this example, Lev (start lever operation), RStt (reel rotation start), 1st (first Stop button pressed (ie, ON edge), 2nd (second stop button pressed (ie, ON edge)), 3rdOn (third stop button pressed (ie, ON edge)), 3rdOff (third stop) Button release (ie, OFF edge)) and Bet (pressing a bet button (MAX bet button or BET button)). The seven triggers displayed in this example have a configuration corresponding to various command data transmitted from the main control circuit 41 (described later) to the sub control circuit 42 (for example, a start command in the case of Lev). Yes.

  In the effect pattern display area 211b, an effect pattern representing an effect pattern executed by the gaming machine 300 is shown. For each effect pattern, an event corresponding to the seven triggers described above (the pentagonal notation corresponding to this event is referred to as “piece”) is defined, and one sequence 211c (effect sequence) is defined. However, the state shown in FIG. 3A is an initial display state. In this example, for the sake of convenience, the symbol of the right arrow “⇒” indicating that the previous effect content is continued is described (see piece 211d). .

  FIG. 3B shows an example of the contents of the effect definition file 203. For example, in the example of FIG. 3B, an effect No is set for each effect type, and unique identifiers (Ptn1 to Ptn11) are assigned to the effect patterns over a plurality of effect types. For each effect pattern, for example, a piece name such as “P1-1” or “P2-1” or a sign of a right arrow “→” is set corresponding to the above-described seven triggers (Lev or Bet). Yes.

  The effect definition file 203 can store definition contents using various file formats such as a text file such as a CSV file and a table format file.

  FIG. 3C shows the display state of the sequence area 211 and the timeline area 212 (area displayed on the same effect sequence edit screen) when the effect definition file 203 is read. In the sequence area 211 shown in FIG. 3C, the contents of the read effect definition file 203 are reflected as they are. For example, for the production pattern Ptn1, the piece name “P1-1” is displayed in the trigger “Lev”, and the right arrow “⇒” corresponding to the sign of the right arrow “→” is displayed in the trigger “RStt”. In the trigger “1st”, the piece name “P1-2” is displayed, and in the triggers “2nd” to “Bet”, the right arrow “⇒” corresponding to the sign of the right arrow “→” is displayed.

  The timeline area 212 in FIG. 3C displays a timeline associated with the event (piece 211k) of the effect pattern (Ptn2) selected with the mouse of the development PC 200 or the like. The timeline area 212 in FIG. 3C defines what kind of performance is performed at which timing, and a frame unit scale is shown in the frame display area 212a to indicate the timing and period. ing. In this example, the frame display area 212a shows 700 frames, and a moving image display having a length of 700 frames can be set by MAX.

  In the timeline area 212, four timelines (212c to 212f) are shown, a node 212g is shown in the timeline 212c, a node 212h is shown in the timeline 212d, and a timeline 212e is shown. Shows a node 212i, and a timeline 212f shows a call sign 212j. Here, each node is associated with image data or the like used to execute the effect, and the call sign is associated with a keyword for executing the effect.

  Thus, by reading the effect definition file 203, the effect sequence is displayed as in the sequence area 211 shown in FIG. 3C. Here, the user of the development PC 200 displays the event displayed in the sequence area 211. This production sequence can be edited by deleting or newly creating (pieces). Further, the user of the development PC 200 can change the contents of the effect executed according to the corresponding event by editing the setting contents of the timeline in the timeline area 212 shown in FIG. it can.

  Next, an effect sequence editing screen displayed on the display device of the development PC 200 will be described with reference to FIG. The effect sequence editing screen 210 shown in FIG. 4 includes a menu area 210a, a sequence area 211, a timeline area 212, a property area 213, and a call sign area 214.

  In the menu area 210a, a file menu button 210b, a convert button 210c, and a preview button 210d are shown. The file menu button 210b is a button that is clicked when reading the effect definition file 203, and specifies the location and name of the effect definition file 203 on the displayed file specification screen (not shown). The convert button 210 c is clicked when the production definition file 203 is read, the production sequence, the content of the production, etc. are edited and the edited result is built as the actual machine data 204. The preview button 210d is a button that is clicked when previewing the actual machine data 204, specifies the location and name of the actual machine data 204 on the displayed file designation screen (not shown), and displays a preview instruction screen (not shown). ) Instruct the preview of the actual machine data 204 thus read.

  The sequence area 211 is the same as the sequence area 211 shown in FIG. 3C, and shows a state after reading the effect definition file 203 shown in FIG. 3B. Although simplified in FIG. 3C and the like, an effect pattern display designation area 211h is displayed in addition to the trigger display area 211a and the effect pattern display area 211b. In the effect pattern display designation area 211h, a range of effect patterns to be displayed in the sequence area 211 is selected by clicking a corresponding button or the like. In this example, with the buttons such as “1-20”, “21-40”, and “41-60”, it is possible to display 20 production patterns. In addition, a slide bar is arranged at the right end of the sequence area 211, and by operating this slide bar, it is possible to sequentially display and confirm all 20 effect patterns. The display unit of the effect pattern can be changed by setting.

  In addition, a button such as “All Ptn” is displayed in the effect pattern display designation area 211h. When this button is selected by clicking, for example, all effect patterns are displayed. In addition, a button such as “Time Line” is displayed in the effect pattern display designation area 211h, and when selected by clicking this button, all effect patterns (or some effect patterns) are associated. You can display a list of currently displayed timelines.

  The timeline area 212 is the same as the timeline area 212 shown in FIG. 3C, and here shows a state after editing by the user of the development PC 200. Although simplified in FIG. 3C and the like, a layer display area 212b is displayed in addition to the frame display area 212a. In the layer display area 212b, when a timeline is set for each layer, a layer to be displayed is selected by clicking a corresponding button. In this example, by checking buttons corresponding to notations such as “Layer 0”, “Layer 1”, “Layer 2”, “Layer 3”, and “Layer 4”, it is possible to display a timeline belonging to that layer.

  Layers are used to manage the layout in consideration of the drawing order. Normally, video data is drawn side by side along the Z axis in 3D space, but separately, the drawing order is set in units of layers. It can be set fixedly. In the layer display area 212b, five layers “Layer 0” to “Layer 4” are settable, but the number of layers depends on the drawing processing performance of the GPU 84 shown in FIG. 12 described later. In this case, a setting file (not shown) is provided on the development PC 200 separately from the effect definition file 203, the number of layers used is registered in the setting file, and an effect sequence data tool is provided. A setting file may be read at startup, and a setting input screen may be provided so that the number of layers can be set in the tool.

  Nodes (212g, 212h, 212i) are displayed on the timeline (212c, 212d, 212e) in the timeline area 212, respectively, and the effect data corresponding to the node is reproduced along the timeline. Represents. The display length of the node represents the length (number of frames) when the effect data is reproduced.

  The property area 213 defines properties corresponding to nodes (212g to 212i) set on the timeline in the timeline area 212. When the user of the development PC 200 selects a node 212h displayed on the timeline 212e in the timeline area 212 by clicking or the like, information on the node 212h is displayed in the property area 213 as shown in FIG.

  In the property area 213, for example, a Bind File (bind file) display area for designating which file is used to execute an effect corresponding to the node (for example, reproduction of image data) is displayed. Also, an InFrame display area that indicates from which frame the execution of the effect corresponding to the node is started, an OutFrame display area that indicates which frame the execution of the effect ends, and the effect are executed. A TotalFrame display area indicating the number of frames in a certain period is provided. In addition, the display content in this area is displayed on the corresponding node in the timeline area 212 (for example, “P2-1 M2” in the example of the node 212h).

  Here, various types of files can be used as files (bind files) used for the performance. For example, a file format for storing data capable of reproducing still images, a file format for storing data capable of reproducing moving images, a file format for storing polygon data and texture data capable of reproducing 3D images, and a file for storing data capable of reproducing audio And a file for storing data capable of reproducing subtitles.

  The property area 213 is provided with a LoopSetting button for designating whether or not the bind file is repeatedly played when the number of frames to be played in the designated bind file is larger than the number of frames shown in the TotalFrame display area. If it is repeated, it is selected by clicking the Event Loop button or the like, and if it is not repeated, it is selected by clicking the End Pause button or the like.

  Further, on the corresponding timeline in the timeline area 212, for example, a new node can be added by right-clicking. At this time, the property area 213 is in a mode for inputting information related to the node. Here, when a bind file is input, the length of the corresponding node in the timeline area 212 is adjusted to represent the number of frames corresponding to the playback length of the bind file.

  In the call sign area 214, in response to the call sign 212j represented by the “▽” mark shown on the timeline in the timeline area 212, any command (for example, movement of an accessory or image data) A CallSign (call sign) display area for designating whether or not a program such as reproduction is to be executed is displayed. The command can be, for example, a three-letter alphabet following @ (at sign).

  Also, if there is a comment regarding this command, it is input to the Comment display area. Also, an InFrame display area that indicates what frame the command starts from, an OutFrame display area that indicates the frame at which the command ends, and the number of frames in the period in which the command is executed A TotalFrame display area can also be provided.

  Also, a new call sign can be added by, for example, right-clicking on the corresponding timeline in the timeline area 212. At this time, the call sign area 214 is in a mode for inputting information related to the call sign. Here, when the above-described items are input, a マ ー ク mark indicating the presence of the call sign is displayed on the timeline.

  As described above, the reproduction of the predetermined effect data such as the reproduction of the moving image can be realized by setting the node or the call sign, but the call sign is set to the designated call sign. Various processes not related to the bind file can be performed in that the corresponding program is executed at the designated timing and period.

  Next, the data structure of effect sequence data 204a in the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 1 to 4, it has been described that the production sequence data 204a is generated by the development PC 200 based on the production definition file 203. Here, the production sequence data 204a generated in this manner is used. The relationship between the data included in the data structure is described.

  First, as shown in FIG. 5, the effect sequence data 204a has data for each effect pattern such as Ptn1, Ptn2,. Then, for each effect pattern, for example, for each trigger such as Lev, RStt, 1st,..., The data unit is referred to as “piece”, and the data included in this piece is , Data related to the event generated by the corresponding trigger.

  Next, each trigger has data for each layer, such as Layer 0, Layer 1,... Further, each layer has data for each timeline such as timeline 1, timeline 2,.

  Each timeline has nodes such as node 1, node 2,. Further, there may be a call sign such as call sign 1, call sign 2,. A node and a call sign may exist in one timeline, or a node and a call sign may not be allowed to coexist in one timeline.

  Each node is associated with a property, and the property includes information such as a bind file and InFrame as described in relation to the property area 213 shown in FIG.

  Similarly, each call sign is also associated with a property, and the property includes information such as a call sign and InFrame as described with reference to the call sign area 214 shown in FIG.

  As described above, the data structure of the effect sequence data 204a in the present invention has been illustrated with reference to FIG. 5, but is not limited to such structure and relevance. The characteristic configuration of the present invention can be realized by using the production sequence data of various other structures. Further, the effect sequence data 204a is data built as the actual machine data 204, and does not need to be stored as text data that can be recognized by the user of the development PC 200 or the like.

[Description of preview processing on development PC]
Next, with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 6, an outline of processing executed on the development PC 200 when the preview button 210 d is pressed on the effect sequence editing screen 210 of FIG. 4 will be described.

  First, in S1001, when a preview instruction for the read actual machine data 204 is given on a preview instruction screen (not shown), an effect pattern designated on the preview instruction screen is acquired. Next, in S1002, the effect sequence data 204a is acquired from the read actual machine data 204 based on the specified effect pattern.

  Next, in S1004, it is determined whether or not the effects corresponding to all the triggers have ended and the effects of the specified effect pattern have ended. When the production is finished, the preview process is finished. If the effect has not ended, the process proceeds to S1005, where it is determined whether a trigger has occurred. Here, the trigger may be automatically set by the development PC 200 such that each trigger is generated at a predetermined timing, or a start lever operation button, a reel rotation start instruction is displayed on the display device of the development PC 200. A trigger may be generated by displaying a button, three stop buttons, a MAX bet button, a BET button, and the like, and causing the user of the development PC 200 to press these buttons.

  Next, if it is determined in S1005 that the trigger has occurred, the process proceeds to S1006, where production sequence data corresponding to the event corresponding to the trigger is set. More specifically, data stored as a piece associated with the corresponding trigger is set in the designated effect pattern. This includes information related to effects set for all timelines of all layers. Thereafter, the process proceeds to S1007.

  Next, in S1005, when it is determined that a trigger does not occur, the process proceeds to S1007, and it is determined whether or not there is a node on the timeline. The timeline to be determined here is a timeline for all layers. If a node exists, the process advances to step S1008 to identify a bind file with reference to the property corresponding to the node, and execute drawing processing and audio output processing corresponding to the node. Thereafter, the process proceeds to S1009. The bind file is acquired from the effect data 204b of the read actual machine data 204.

  Next, in S1007, when it is determined that there is no node in the timeline, the process proceeds to S1009, and it is determined whether or not a call sign exists in the timeline. The timeline to be determined here is a timeline for all layers. If there is a call sign, the process proceeds to S1010, and a program corresponding to the call sign (for example, a process related to drawing or a process related to movement control of an accessory) is executed. In addition, if the program corresponding to the call sign is a process related to movement control of an accessory or a process related to lamp effect control, instead, a pop-up window or the like clearly indicates that the call sign is registered. May be.

  Next, when the processing of S1010 is completed, or when it is determined in S1009 that there is no call sign in the timeline, the processing returns to S1004 in order to determine the next frame drawing processing or the like.

  In this way, in the development PC 200, a preview of the effect related to the specified effect pattern is performed based on the read actual machine data 204.

<Configuration of development PC>
The configuration of the development PC 200 will be described with reference to FIG. However, the configuration illustrated in FIG. 7 only illustrates a typical configuration of the development PC 200. Functions equivalent to those of the development PC 200 can be realized by computers having various other configurations.

  The development PC 200 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 231, GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) 232, ROM 233, RAM 234, display controller 235, display 236, input device interface 237, keyboard 238, mouse 239, external storage device 240, external recording It includes a medium drive 241 and a bus 242 that connects these components to each other.

  The CPU 231 controls the operation of each component of the development PC 200, edits the production sequence in accordance with the user's operation under the control of the OS, reads the actual machine data 204, and is executed on the gaming machine 300. Preview the production.

  The GPU 232 particularly performs a calculation process for displaying a 3D image. The GPU 232 may be provided with a VRAM (Video RAM) in order to temporarily hold necessary information.

  A ROM (Read Only Memory) 233 stores a program executed when the development PC 200 is activated. A RAM (Random Access Memory) 234 temporarily stores programs executed by the CPU 231 and data used during the execution of these programs.

  The display controller 235 is a dedicated controller for actually processing a drawing command issued by the CPU 231. The drawing data processed by the display controller 235 is once written in the graphic memory and then output to the display 236. The display 236 is a display device composed of, for example, an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) or a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube).

  The input device interface 237 receives a signal input from the keyboard 238 or the mouse 239 and transmits a predetermined command to the CPU 231 according to the signal pattern. The keyboard 238 and the mouse 239 are used, for example, when a user performs an operation when editing an effect sequence.

  The external storage device 240 is, for example, a storage device such as a hard disk drive (HDD), and the above-described program and data are recorded in this device and loaded into the RAM 234 from there as necessary at the time of execution.

  The external recording medium driving device 241 accesses the recording surface of a portable external recording medium 250 such as a CD (Compact Disc), an MO (Magneto-Optical Disc), a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), etc., and is recorded there. It is a device that reads data. The external recording medium 250 can also record a program for editing an effect sequence and a program for reading an actual machine data 204 and previewing an effect executed on the gaming machine 300. Data recorded in the external recording medium 250 is stored in the external storage device 240 via the external recording medium driving device 241. If it is a program, it is loaded into the RAM 234 at the time of execution.

  Further, as another distribution form of the program according to the present invention, there is a route in which the program is stored in the external storage device 240 via a network and a network interface (not shown) of the development PC 200 from a predetermined server on the network. Conceivable. The program stored in this way is loaded into the RAM 234 at the time of execution and executed in the same manner as described above.

  In this example, it is assumed that the actual machine data 204 is encapsulated as one file including the effect sequence data 204a and the effect data 204b, but is not limited to such a form. . The effect sequence data 204a and the effect data 204b may be configured separately, or each of the effect sequence data 204a and the effect data 204b may be configured separately.

  Further, the effect definition file 203 stores node property information and call sign information as shown in the lower part of FIG. 3C, in addition to information related to the sequence for each effect pattern as shown in FIG. Such information can also be written on a text basis as the effect definition file 203.

  Further, the development PC 200 can also construct information on the sequence for each production pattern from the beginning without reading the production definition file 203.

  In this example, the triggers are “Lev (start lever operation)”, “RStt (reel rotation start)”, “1st (first stop button pressed)”, “2nd (second stop button pressed)”, Seven events such as “3rdOn (third stop button pressed)”, 3rdOff (third stop button released), and “Bet” are assumed, but the present invention is not limited to this. It can be set appropriately.

  As an embodiment of the gaming machine 300, a pachislot will be described as an example. Hereinafter, a pachislot machine that is a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. In the present embodiment, the winning probability of replay is displayed when an assist time (hereinafter referred to as “AT”) that is a function of navigating the establishment of a specific small role with a lamp or the like and a specific symbol combination is displayed. A pachislot machine having a function of an assist replay time (hereinafter referred to as “ART”) that simultaneously operates with a function of operating a replay time (hereinafter referred to as “RT”), which is a gaming state that is higher than usual, will be described.

<Function flow>
First, the functional flow of the pachislot will be described with reference to FIG.
In the pachislot of this embodiment, medals are used as game media for playing games. In addition to the medals, coins, game balls, game point data, tokens, or the like can be applied as game media.

  When a player inserts a medal and operates the start lever, one value (hereinafter, random number value) is extracted from random numbers in a predetermined numerical range (for example, 0 to 65535).

  The internal lottery means performs lottery based on the extracted random number value and determines an internal winning combination. This internal lottery means is carried out by a main control circuit described later. By determining the internal winning combination, a combination of symbols that permits display along a winning determination line described later is determined. The types of symbol combinations include those related to “winning” in which benefits such as paying out medals, re-games, bonuses, etc. are given to players, and other so-called “loses”. Is provided.

  Further, when the start lever is operated, a plurality of reels are rotated. Thereafter, when the player presses the stop button corresponding to the predetermined reel, the reel stop control means performs control to stop the rotation of the corresponding reel based on the internal winning combination and the timing when the stop button is pressed. Do. The reel stop control means is responsible for a main control circuit described later.

  In the pachislot, basically, a control for stopping the rotation of the corresponding reel is performed within a specified time (190 msec or 75 msec) from when the stop button is pressed. In the present embodiment, the number of symbols that move with the rotation of the reel within the specified time is referred to as “the number of sliding symbols”. When the specified period is 190 msec, the maximum number of sliding symbols is set to 4 symbols, and when the specified period is 75 msec, the maximum number of sliding symbols is set to 1 symbol.

  When the internal winning combination allowing the symbol combination display related to winning is determined, the reel stop control means usually displays the symbol combination within the specified time of 190 msec (four symbols) for the winning determination line. The rotation of the reel is stopped so as to display as much as possible. In addition, the reel stop control means is defined for one or more reels when, for example, a challenge bonus (CB), which is a second-type special accessory, and a middle bonus (MB) for continuously operating the CB are operated. The reel rotation is stopped so that the combination of symbols is displayed as much as possible along the winning determination line within a time of 75 msec (for one symbol). Furthermore, the reel stop control means uses various specified times corresponding to the gaming state to rotate the reels so that combinations of symbols that are not permitted to be displayed by the internal winning combination are not displayed along the winning determination line. Stop.

  Thus, when the rotation of the plurality of reels is all stopped, the winning determination means determines whether or not the combination of symbols displayed along the winning determination line is related to winning. This winning determination means is carried out by a main control circuit described later. When it is determined by the winning determination means that it is related to winning, a privilege such as paying out medals is given to the player. In the pachislot, a series of flows as described above is performed as one game.

  Further, in the pachislot, in the above-described series of flows, video display performed by a display device such as a liquid crystal display device, light output performed by various lamps, sound output performed by a speaker, or a combination thereof is used. Various productions are performed.

  When the start lever is operated, an effect random number value (hereinafter referred to as effect random number value) is extracted separately from the random number value used for determining the internal winning combination. When the effect random number value is extracted, the effect content determining means determines, by lottery, what is to be executed this time from among a plurality of types of effect contents associated with the internal winning combination. This effect content determination means is carried out by a sub-control circuit described later.

  When the contents of the effect are determined, the effect executing means executes the corresponding effect in conjunction with each opportunity, such as when the rotation of the reels starts, when the rotation of each reel stops, or when determining whether there is a winning. In this way, in the pachislot machine, the player has the opportunity to know or predict the determined internal winning combination (in other words, the combination of symbols to be aimed at) by executing the production contents associated with the internal winning combination. It is possible to improve the player's interest.

<Pachislot structure>
Next, the structure of the pachislot machine according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

[Appearance structure]
FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing an external structure of the pachi-slot 1.

  As shown in FIG. 9, the pachi-slot 1 includes an exterior body 2. The exterior body 2 includes a cabinet 2a that houses a reel, a circuit board, and the like, and a front door 2b that is attached to the cabinet 2a so as to be openable and closable. Handles 7 are provided on both side surfaces of the cabinet 2a (FIG. 9 shows only one side handle 7). The handle 7 is a recess that is put on when carrying the pachi-slot 1.

  Inside the cabinet 2a, three reels 3L, 3C, 3R are provided side by side. Hereinafter, the reels 3L, 3C, and 3R are referred to as a left reel 3L, a middle reel 3C, and a right reel 3R, respectively. Each reel 3L, 3C, 3R has a reel body formed in a cylindrical shape and a translucent sheet material mounted on the peripheral surface of the reel body. A plurality of (for example, 21) symbols are drawn on the surface of the sheet material at predetermined intervals along the circumferential direction.

  The front door 2b includes a door body 9, a front panel 10, and a liquid crystal display device 11 showing a specific example of the display device. The door body 9 is attached to the cabinet 2a so as to be openable and closable using a hinge (not shown). The hinge is provided at the left end of the door body 9 when the door body 9 is viewed from the front of the pachi-slot 1.

  The liquid crystal display device 11 is attached to the upper part of the door body 9 and executes an effect by displaying an image. The liquid crystal display device 11 includes a display unit (display screen) 11a including a display window 4 for displaying symbols drawn on the three reels 3L, 3C, 3R. In the present embodiment, the entire display unit 11a including the display window 4 is used to display an image and execute an effect.

  The display window 4 is formed of a transparent member such as an acrylic plate. The display window 4 is provided at a position overlapping the arrangement area of the three reels when viewed from the front (player side), and is provided at a position closer to the player (player side) than the three reels. Therefore, the player can visually recognize the three reels provided behind the display window 4 through the display window 4.

  In the present embodiment, when the rotation of the corresponding reel provided behind the display window 4 stops, the display window 4 displays three symbols arranged in succession among a plurality of types of symbols drawn on each reel. The size is set as possible. That is, in the frame of the display window 4, upper, middle, and lower areas are provided for each reel, and one symbol is displayed in each area. In the present embodiment, a line connecting the middle stage area of the left reel 3L, the middle stage area of the middle reel 3C, and the middle stage area of the right reel 3R is defined as a winning determination line for determining whether or not a prize is won.

  The front panel 10 is attached to the upper part of the door body 9 and is set to a size that covers the liquid crystal display device 11. The front panel 10 is arranged so as to overlap the display unit 11a side of the liquid crystal display device 11, and includes a decorative frame 101 having three panel openings 101a, 101b, and 101c that expose the display unit 11a of the liquid crystal display device 11, and a decorative frame 101. A transparent protective cover (not shown) for closing the panel openings 101a, 101b, and 101c of the frame 101 is provided.

  The decorative frame 101 includes a partition piece 112 that partitions the panel opening 101a and the panel opening 101b, and a partition piece 113 that partitions the panel opening 101b and the panel opening 101c. The three panel openings 101a, 101b, and 101c are partitioned by the partition pieces 112 and 113 so as to be lined up and down. Panel openings 101 a and 101 c of the decorative frame 101 expose the display unit 11 a of the liquid crystal display device 11. Further, the panel opening 101b of the decorative frame 101 exposes the display unit 11a of the liquid crystal display device 11 and the three reels 3L, 3C, 3R.

  Character (billy) decoration portions 22L and 22R (not shown) are formed on the decoration frame 101. Touch sensors 23L and 23R (see FIGS. 11 and 12) are provided in the character decoration portions 22L and 22R. The touch sensor 23L detects that the player's hand has touched the character decoration unit 22L, and transmits the detection result to a sub-control circuit 42 (see FIGS. 11 and 12) described later. The touch sensor 23R detects that the player's hand has touched the character decoration portion 22R, and transmits the detection result to a sub-control circuit 42 described later.

  The decorative frame 101 is provided with a lamp group 21 and a movable decorative unit 121 (not shown, see FIGS. 11 and 12). The lamp group 21 is configured by an LED (Light Emitting Diode) or the like, and turns on and off the light in a pattern corresponding to the content of the effect.

  The movable decorative unit 121 is disposed on the back side of the decorative frame 101 and is usually hidden behind the decorative frame 101. And it moves when a special production and a predetermined production are performed, and becomes visible from the panel opening 101a of the decorative frame 101.

  A pedestal 12 is formed in the center of the door body 9. The pedestal portion 12 is provided with various devices (medal insertion slot 13, MAX bet button 14, 1BET button 15, start lever 16, stop buttons 17L, 17C, and 17R) to be operated by the player.

  The medal slot 13 is provided for receiving a medal dropped on the pachislot 1 from the outside by the player. The medals accepted from the medal slot 13 are used for one game with the preset number (for example, three) as the upper limit, and the amount exceeding the preset number is deposited in the pachislot 1. (So-called credit function).

  The MAX bet button 14 and the 1BET button 15 are provided for determining the number of coins used for one game from medals deposited inside the pachislot 1. Although not shown in FIG. 9, the base 12 is provided with a settlement button. This checkout button is provided to pull out (discharge) medals deposited inside the pachi-slot 1 to the outside.

  The start lever 16 is provided to start rotation of all reels (3L, 3C, 3R). The stop buttons 17L, 17C, and 17R are provided in association with the left reel 3L, the middle reel 3C, and the right reel 3R, respectively, and each stop button is provided to stop the rotation of the corresponding reel. Hereinafter, the stop buttons 17L, 17C, and 17R are referred to as a left stop button 17L, a middle stop button 17C, and a right stop button 17R, respectively.

  Although not shown in FIG. 9, the pedestal portion 12 is provided with a 7-segment display 6 (see FIG. 11) made up of 7-segment LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes). The 7-segment display 6 digitally stores information such as the number of medals to be paid out to the player as a privilege (hereinafter referred to as the number of payouts) and the number of medals deposited in the pachislot 1 (hereinafter referred to as the number of credits). indicate.

  At the lower part of the door body 9, a medal payout port 18, a medal tray 19, speakers 20L, 20R and the like are provided. The medal payout port 18 guides medals discharged by driving a medal payout device 33 described later to the outside. The medal tray 19 stores medals discharged from the medal payout opening 18. In addition, the speakers 20L and 20R output sound such as sound effects and music corresponding to the production contents.

[Internal structure]
Next, the internal structure of the pachislo 1 will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing the internal structure of the pachi-slot 1.

  The cabinet 2a is formed in a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape with one surface on the front side opened. A main board 31 constituting a main control circuit 41 (see FIG. 11), which will be described later, is provided in the upper part of the cabinet 2a. The main control circuit 41 is a circuit that controls the main operation of the game in the pachislot machine 1 and the flow between the operations, such as determination of an internal winning combination, rotation and stop of each reel, determination of the presence / absence of a prize, and the like. The specific configuration of the main control circuit 41 will be described later.

  Three reels (a left reel 3L, a middle reel 3C, and a right reel 3R) are provided in the center of the cabinet 2a. Although not shown in FIG. 10, each reel is connected to a corresponding stepping motor described later (any of stepping motors 61L, 61C, 61R in FIG. 11) through a gear having a predetermined reduction ratio. .

  A medal payout device 33 (hereinafter referred to as a hopper 33) having a structure capable of storing a large amount of medals and discharging them one by one is provided in the lower part of the cabinet 2a. In addition, a power supply device 34 that supplies necessary power to each device of the pachislot machine 1 is provided on one side of the hopper 33 (left side in the example shown in FIG. 10) in the cabinet 2a.

  A sub-board 32 constituting a sub-control circuit 42 (see FIGS. 11 and 12) to be described later is provided on the upper side of the back side of the front door 2b (the part opposite to the display screen side). The sub-control circuit 42 is a circuit that controls the execution of effects by displaying images. The specific configuration of the sub control circuit 42 will be described later.

  Furthermore, a selector 35 is provided at a substantially central portion on the back surface side of the front door 2b. The selector 35 is a device for selecting whether or not the material or shape of the medal inserted from the outside through the medal insertion slot 13 (see FIG. 9) is appropriate. To guide. Although not shown in FIG. 10, a medal sensor 35 </ b> S (see FIG. 11) that detects that an appropriate medal has passed is provided on the path through which the medal passes in the selector 35.

<Configuration of circuits provided in pachislot>
Next, a configuration of a circuit included in the pachislo 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. 11 and 12.
FIG. 11 is a block configuration diagram of the entire circuit provided in the pachi-slot 1. FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing the internal configuration of the sub-control circuit.

  The pachi-slot 1 includes a main control circuit 41, a sub-control circuit 42, and peripheral devices (actuators) that are electrically connected to these circuits.

[Main control circuit]
The main control circuit 41 is mainly configured by a microcomputer 50 installed on a circuit board (main board 31). As other components, the main control circuit 41 includes a clock pulse generation circuit 54, a frequency divider 55, a random number generator 56, a sampling circuit 57, a display unit drive circuit 64, a hopper drive circuit 65, and a payout completion signal circuit. 66.

  The microcomputer 50 includes a main CPU 51, a main ROM (Read Only Memory) 52, and a main RAM (Random Access Memory) 53.

  The main ROM 52 stores a control program for various processes executed by the main CPU 51, a data table such as an internal lottery table, data for transmitting various control commands (commands) to the sub control circuit 42, and the like. . The main RAM 53 is provided with a storage area for storing various data such as an internal winning combination determined by execution of the control program.

  Connected to the main CPU 51 are a clock pulse generation circuit 54, a frequency divider 55, a random number generator 56 and a sampling circuit 57. The clock pulse generation circuit 54 and the frequency divider 55 generate clock pulses. The main CPU 51 executes a control program based on the generated clock pulse. The random number generator 56 generates a random number in a predetermined range (for example, 0 to 65535). Then, the sampling circuit 57 extracts one value from the generated random numbers.

  Various switches and sensors are connected to the input port of the microcomputer 50. The main CPU 51 receives input signals from various switches and controls the operation of peripheral devices such as stepping motors 61L, 61C, 61R.

  The stop switch 17S detects that each of the left stop button 17L, the middle stop button 17C, and the right stop button 17R has been pressed (stop operation) by the player. The start switch 16S detects that the start lever 16 has been operated by the player (start operation). The settlement switch 14S detects that the settlement button has been pressed by the player.

  The medal sensor 35S detects that a medal inserted into the medal insertion slot 13 has passed through the selector 35. The bet switch 12S detects that the player has pressed the bet button (MAX bet button 14 or 1BET button 15).

  As peripheral devices whose operation is controlled by the microcomputer 50, there are three stepping motors 61L, 61C, 61R, a 7-segment display 6, and a hopper 33. A drive circuit for controlling the operation of each peripheral device is connected to the output port of the microcomputer 50.

  The motor drive circuit 62 controls the drive of the three stepping motors 61L, 61C, 61R provided corresponding to the left reel 3L, the middle reel 3C, and the right reel 3R, respectively. The reel position detection circuit 63 detects, for each reel, a reel index indicating that the reel has made one rotation by an optical sensor having a light emitting unit and a light receiving unit.

  Each of the stepping motors 61L, 61C, 61R has a configuration in which the momentum is proportional to the number of output pulses, and the rotation axis can be stopped at a specified angle. The driving force of each stepping motor is transmitted to the corresponding reel via a gear having a predetermined reduction ratio. Each time one pulse is output to each stepping motor, the corresponding reel rotates at a constant angle.

  The main CPU 51 detects the reel index of each reel and then counts the number of times a pulse is output to the corresponding stepping motor, thereby determining the rotation angle of each reel (specifically, how many reels the number of symbols is). Only managed).

  Here, the management of the rotation angle of each reel will be specifically described. The number of pulses output to each stepping motor is counted by a pulse counter (not shown) provided in the main RAM 53. Each time the output of a predetermined number of pulses (for example, 16 times) necessary for the rotation of one symbol is counted by the pulse counter, the value of the symbol counter (not shown) provided in the main RAM 53 is set to “1”. "Is added. A symbol counter is provided for each reel. The value of the symbol counter is cleared when the reel index is detected by the reel position detection circuit 63.

  In other words, in the present embodiment, by managing the value of the symbol counter, it is managed how many symbols have been rotated since the reel index was detected. Therefore, the position of each symbol on each reel is detected with reference to the position where the reel index is detected.

  The display unit drive circuit 64 controls the operation of the 7-segment display 6. The hopper drive circuit 65 controls the operation of the hopper 33. The payout completion signal circuit 66 manages the detection of medals performed by the medal detection unit 33S provided in the hopper 33, and checks whether or not medals discharged from the hopper 33 have reached a predetermined payout number. To do.

  The main control circuit 41 is connected to an external terminal board 18S. The main control circuit 41 is connected to the hall computer or the calling device 100 via the external terminal board 18S. Then, when a predetermined internal winning combination is won and a predetermined stop operation order is detected, the main control circuit 41 transmits a jackpot signal “3” described later to the hall computer or the calling device 100.

[Sub control circuit]
As shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, the sub control circuit 42 is electrically connected to the main control circuit 41, and performs processing such as determination and execution of effect contents based on a command transmitted from the main control circuit 41. . The sub control circuit 42 basically includes a sub CPU 81, a sub ROM 82, a sub RAM 83, a GPU 84, a drawing RAM 85, and a driver 86 as shown in FIG. Further, the sub control circuit 42 includes a DSP (Digital Signal Processor) 90, an audio RAM 91, a D / A (Digital to Analog) converter 92, an amplifier 93, and a movable decoration unit drive circuit 96.

  The sub CPU 81 performs video, sound, and light output control according to the control program stored in the sub ROM 82 in accordance with the command transmitted from the main control circuit 41. The sub ROM 82 basically has a program storage area and a data storage area.

  Various control programs executed by the sub CPU 81 are stored in the program storage area. The control program stored in the program storage area includes, for example, a main board communication thread for controlling communication with the main control circuit 41, a production random number value, and determination of production contents (production data). An effect registration thread for performing registration, a drawing control thread for controlling display of an image by the liquid crystal display device 11 based on the determined contents of the effect, a lamp control thread for controlling the output of light by the lamp group 21, and a speaker A program such as a voice control thread for controlling the sound output by 20L and 20R is included.

  In the data storage area, for example, a storage area for storing various data tables, a storage area for storing effect data constituting various effects, a storage area for storing animation data relating to creation of video, and sound data relating to BGM and sound effects And various storage areas such as a storage area for storing lamp data relating to a light on / off pattern.

  The sub RAM 83 has a storage area for registering the determined contents and effects data, a storage area for storing various data such as an internal winning combination transmitted from the main control circuit 41, and the like.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 12, peripheral devices such as the liquid crystal display device 11, the speakers 20L and 20R, the lamp group 21, the touch sensors 23L and 23R, and the movable decoration unit 121 are connected to the sub control circuit 42. Yes. That is, the operations of these peripheral devices are controlled by the sub control circuit 42.

  In the present embodiment, the sub CPU 81, the GPU 84, the drawing RAM 85 (including the frame buffer), and the driver 86 create a video according to the animation data designated by the contents of the presentation, and the created video is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 11. The

  The sub CPU 81, DSP 90, audio RAM 91, D / A converter 92, and amplifier 93 output sounds such as BGM from the speakers 20L and 20R according to the sound data specified by the contents of the effects. Further, the sub CPU 81 turns on and off the lamp group 21 in accordance with the lamp data designated by the contents of the effect.

  The touch sensors 23L and 23R detect that the player's hand has touched the character decoration portions 22L and 22R, and transmit the detection result to a sub-control circuit 42 described later. The sub CPU 81 and the movable decoration unit drive circuit 96 drive the movable decoration unit 121 according to the movable decoration unit drive data designated by the contents of the effect. That is, the movable decoration unit 121 is driven when a special effect is performed, and is exposed from the panel opening 101 a of the front panel 10.

<Configuration of data table stored in main ROM>
Next, the configuration of various data tables stored in the main ROM 52 will be described with reference to FIGS.

[Design arrangement table]
First, the symbol arrangement table will be described with reference to FIG. The symbol arrangement table is data (hereinafter referred to as symbol code (in FIG. 13) that specifies the position of each symbol in the rotation direction of each of the left reel 3L, the middle reel 3C, and the right reel 3R and the type of symbol arranged at each position. )))).

  In the symbol arrangement table, the position of the symbol arranged in the middle area of each reel within the frame of the display window 4 when the reel index is detected is defined as “0”. Then, in each reel, “0” to “20” corresponding to the symbol counter are set as symbol positions in the order of advance in the reel rotation direction (arrow A direction in FIG. 13) with reference to symbol position “0”. Assigned to a symbol.

  That is, the symbols displayed in the upper, middle, and lower regions of each reel within the frame of the display window 4 by referring to the symbol counter values (“0” to “20”) and the symbol arrangement table. Can be specified. For example, when the value of the symbol counter corresponding to the left reel 3L is “7”, the upper, middle, and lower regions of the left reel 3L within the frame of the display window 4 are respectively “ Symbols corresponding to “Replay 2”, “Billy BAR” at symbol position “7”, and “Replay 1” at symbol position “6” are displayed.

[Design combination table]
Next, an example of the symbol combination table will be described with reference to FIG. The symbol combination table defines a correspondence relationship between a symbol combination predetermined according to the type of privilege, a display combination (storage area), and a payout number.

  In the present embodiment, when the symbol combination displayed by the left reel 3L, the middle reel 3C and the right reel 3R along the effective line (center line) matches the symbol combination specified in the symbol combination table. It is determined that the prize is won. When it is determined that a prize is won, the player is given benefits such as medal payout and replay operation. If the symbol combination displayed along the active line does not match any of the symbol combinations defined in the symbol combination table, it is a so-called “lost”. That is, in this embodiment, the symbol combination corresponding to “losing” is not defined in the symbol combination table, thereby defining the symbol combination “losing”. Note that the present invention is not limited to this, and the item “losing” may be provided in the symbol combination table to directly define “losing”.

  Various data described in the display combination column in the symbol combination table is data for identifying a symbol combination displayed along the active line. “Data” in the display combination column is represented by 1-byte data, and a unique symbol combination (content of display combination) is assigned to each bit in the data.

  The “storage area” data in the display combination column is data for designating a display combination storage area (to be described later) (see FIG. 26 described later) in which the corresponding display combination is stored. In the present embodiment, 29 display combination storage areas are provided. In the present embodiment, display combinations having the same bit pattern (1-byte data pattern) and having different contents are managed as different display combinations depending on the “storage area”.

  The numerical value described in the payout number column in the symbol combination table represents the number of medals to be paid out to the player. In the combination of symbols to which a numerical value of 1 or more is given as the “paid-out number” data, the same number of medals are paid out.

  In this embodiment, for example, when a display combination related to replay (such as “C_C Lip 1” shown in FIG. 14) is determined as a display combination, replay is activated.

  Although not displayed in FIG. 14, the display combinations related to “R_Bell Transition 2-1” to “R_Bell Transition 3-21” stop display the symbol combination related to “C_B Bell” on the active line. It is a role that is displayed when it was not possible (missed). The display combinations related to these “R_Bell transition 2-1” to “R_Bell transition 3-21” are display combinations that trigger the transition of the RT gaming state to the RT1 gaming state described later. That is, when the symbol combination corresponding to any of “R_Bell Transition 2-1” to “R_Bell Transition 3-21” is stopped on the active line, the RT gaming state is RT1 described later. Transition to gaming state.

[Bonus operating table]
Next, the bonus operation time table will be described with reference to FIG. The bonus operation time table includes a bonus end number counter and a game possible number counter corresponding to the game state stored in the game state flag storage area (see FIG. 27) provided in the main RAM 53 when the bonus operation is performed. And data to be stored in the winning possible number counter.

  The game state flag is data for identifying the type of bonus game to be operated. In this embodiment, a big bonus and a regular bonus are provided as bonus game types. The big bonus is called an accessory continuous operation device related to a so-called first type special accessory, and is hereinafter referred to as “BB”. The regular bonus is called a so-called first type special character, and is hereinafter referred to as “RB”. The operation of RB is continuously performed while the operation of BB is performed.

  The bonus end number counter is data for managing whether or not a prescribed number (payout number) that triggers the end of the bonus game has been reached. In the present embodiment, the operation of BB1 that is started when “C_Don BB” or “C_Red 7” is displayed ends when a medal that reaches the specified number “263” is paid out. In addition, the operation of BB2 that is started when “C_BAR” is displayed ends when a medal that reaches the specified number “60” is paid out, and the operation of BB3 that starts when “C_Billy” is displayed. Is finished when the medals reaching the prescribed number “14” are paid out.

  That is, the numerical value defined by the bonus operation time table is stored in the bonus end number counter, and the subtraction is performed through the operation of the bonus. As a result, the operation of the corresponding bonus ends on condition that the value of the bonus end number counter is updated to “0”. In the present embodiment, BB that is started when “C_Don BB” and “C_Red 7” are displayed is managed as “BB1” with the same flag. However, the BB that is started with the display of “C_Don BB” and the BB that is started with the display of “C_Red 7” may be managed by individual flags.

  The game possible number counter is data for managing the number of remaining games that can be played in the operation of “RB”, that is, the so-called game possible number. The winning possible number counter is data for managing the number of remaining games in which a combination of symbols related to winning can be displayed in one regular bonus (RB) game, so-called winning possible number.

[RT transition table]
Next, the RT transition table will be described with reference to FIG. The RT transition table defines the correspondence relationship between the RT gaming state transition conditions and the transition source and destination RT gaming states.

  In this embodiment, four types of states, RT0 gaming state to RT3 gaming state, are provided as the RT gaming state, which are different from each other in the type of internal winning combination of replay and the winning probability. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 16, the fact that a predetermined internal winning combination is won, or that a symbol combination related to a specific internal winning combination is stopped and displayed on the active line, etc. It becomes a transition opportunity between.

  Specifically, when “C_Don BB”, “C_Red 7” or “C_BAR” is won as an internal winning combination, the RT gaming state shifts to the RT3 gaming state. In this case, the transition source (the RT gaming state before the transition) is any one of the RT0 gaming state to the RT2 gaming state.

  Also, when “C_Billy” is won as an internal winning combination, the RT gaming state shifts to the RT0 gaming state. In this case, the transition source (the RT gaming state before the transition) is any one of the RT0 gaming state to the RT2 gaming state. Furthermore, when the operation of BB1 to BB3 is finished, the RT gaming state is shifted to the RT0 gaming state. The internal winning combination “C_Don BB” indicates a specific example of a specific internal winning combination according to the present invention, and the internal winning combination “C_Billy” indicates a specific example of a special internal winning combination according to the present invention. Indicates.

  When the symbol combination “C_RT0 Lip 1 to 10” or “C_Control Lip 1 to 4” is displayed, the RT gaming state shifts to the RT0 gaming state. In this case, the transition source (the RT gaming state before the transition) is other than the RT3 gaming state and the RT0 gaming state carrying over “C_Billy”.

  In addition, when the bell is spilled, that is, when the symbol combination of “C_Bell transition 2-1-6” and “C_Bell transition 3-1-21” is displayed, the RT gaming state is the RT1 gaming state. Migrate to In this case, the transition source (the RT gaming state before the transition) is other than the RT3 gaming state and the RT0 gaming state carrying over “C_Billy”.

  Further, when the symbol combination “C_RT2 Lip 1 to 12” is displayed, the RT gaming state shifts to the RT2 gaming state. In this case, the transition source (the RT gaming state before the transition) is other than the RT3 gaming state and the RT0 gaming state carrying over “C_Billy”.

  In the pachislot machine 1 of the present embodiment, the main control circuit 41 (main CPU 51) refers to the RT transition table to control the transition of the RT gaming state. For details of the transition flow of the RT gaming state, More specific description will be given later with reference to FIG.

[Internal lottery table determination table]
Next, the internal lottery table determination table will be described with reference to FIG. The internal lottery table determination table defines a correspondence relationship between the gaming state, the number of inserted medals, the internal lottery table, and the number of lotteries.

  Specifically, when in the general gaming state (the number of inserted medals is “3”), the internal lottery table for the general gaming state is used, and “54” is set as the number of lotteries. When it is in the RB1 gaming state (the number of inserted medals is “3”), the internal lottery table for the RB1 gaming state is used, and “8” is set as the number of lotteries. When in the RB2 gaming state (the number of inserted medals is “3”), the internal lottery table for the RB2 gaming state is used, and “8” is set as the number of lotteries. In the RB3 gaming state (the number of inserted medals is “1”), the internal lottery table for the RB3 gaming state is used, and “6” is set as the number of lotteries.

[Internal lottery table]
Next, the internal lottery table will be described with reference to FIG. The internal lottery table includes a small role / replay data pointer and a bonus data pointer associated with a winning number in each RT gaming state and each RB gaming state, and a lottery value when each winning number is determined. Define the correspondence.

  The small role / replay data pointer and bonus data pointer are data acquired as a result of lottery performed with reference to the internal lottery table, and are defined by an internal winning combination determination table (see FIGS. 19 and 20) described later. This is data for designating the designated internal winning combination.

  In the internal lottery process of the present embodiment, random numbers extracted from a predetermined numerical range “0 to 65535” are sequentially subtracted by lottery values defined according to each winning number. And then. An internal lottery is performed by determining whether the result of the subtraction is negative (whether a so-called “digit” has occurred). In other words, the winning number when the result of the subtraction becomes negative (“digit” occurs) is won, and the data point assigned to the winning number is acquired.

  Therefore, in the internal lottery process of the present embodiment, the larger the numerical value defined as the lottery value, the higher the probability that the data (that is, the data pointer) to which it is assigned is determined. The winning probability of each winning number can be represented by “the lottery value corresponding to each winning number / the number of all random numbers that may be extracted (random number denominator: 65536)”.

  FIG. 18 shows a part of the internal lottery table for general gaming state (RT0). The internal lottery table for the general gaming state is a table that is referred to when the player is in the RT0 gaming state, and defines lottery values and data pointers according to the winning numbers 1 to 54.

  In the present embodiment, lottery values are defined according to settings 1 to 6. These settings 1 to 6 are provided in order to adjust the expected value of internal winnings such as bonuses and small roles at the game store side. For example, a reset switch (not shown) and a setting key type switch (not shown) It is changed using.

  An internal lottery table is also prepared for each of the other game states, but description and explanation are omitted here.

[Internal winning combination determination table]
Next, a part of the internal winning combination determination table will be described with reference to FIGS. The internal winning combination determination table defines the correspondence between the data pointer and the internal winning combination. That is, when the small combination / replay data pointer and the bonus data pointer are determined, the internal winning combination is uniquely acquired.

  The “internal winning combination” in the internal winning combination determination table is data for identifying a combination of symbols on the left reel 3L, the middle reel 3C, and the right reel 3R that is permitted to be displayed along the active line. The “internal winning combination” is represented by 1-byte data in the same manner as the “display combination” in the symbol combination table shown in FIG. 14, and a unique symbol for each bit in the 1-byte data. A combination is assigned. The “O” mark in the internal winning combination determination table indicates the internal winning combination to be won in the acquired data pointer.

  When the small combination / replay data pointer and bonus data pointer are “0”, the content of “internal winning combination” is “lost”, which is defined by the symbol combination table shown in FIG. The display of all the symbol combinations that are displayed is not permitted.

  FIG. 19 shows a bonus internal winning combination determination table. The bonus internal winning combination determination table defines internal winning combinations related to the operation of the bonus game with respect to bonus data pointers “1” to “4”. That is, the bonus internal winning combination determination table defines the correspondence between the bonus data pointer and the internal winning combination related to the operation of the bonus game. As shown in FIG. 19, for example, when “2” is acquired as the bonus data pointer, “C_Red 7” is won as the internal winning combination.

  FIG. 20 shows a part of the small winning combination / replay internal winning combination determining table. The small winning combination / replay internal winning combination determination table defines internal winning combinations related to small winning combination and replay (replay) with respect to “1” to “38” of the small winning combination / replay data pointer. That is, the small winning combination / replay internal winning combination determination table defines the correspondence between the small winning combination / replay data pointer and the internal winning combination related to the payout of medals or the internal winning combination related to the operation of the replay.

  FIG. 21 shows a part of the correspondence table of the small combination / replay data pointer and the internal winning combination. This correspondence table defines a correspondence relationship between a small combination / replay data pointer, an abbreviation, and an internal winning combination.

[Cylinder stop number selection table]
Next, with reference to FIG. 22, the rotating cylinder stop number selection table will be described. The rotation stop number selection table defines the correspondence between the small role / replay data pointer and the rotation stop number. The rotation stop number is data used when acquiring various data required in the reel stop initial setting process described later.

  The rotation stop number selection table of the present embodiment defines a different rotation stop number for each small role / replay data pointer. For example, when the data pointer for the small role / replay is “3”, the spinning stop number “3” is selected.

[Reel stop initial setting table]
Next, the reel stop initial setting table will be described with reference to FIG. The reel stop initial setting table defines the correspondence relationship between the number for turning stop and various data used for the pull-in priority table selection process and the determination process of the number of sliding pieces of each reel.

[Output condition table]
Next, the output condition table will be described with reference to FIG. The output condition table defines a correspondence relationship between output conditions such as when the BB (BB1, BB2) is operated and on / off of the big hit signal “1” to the big hit signal “3”. In the present embodiment, when the BB (BB1, BB2) is activated, the big hit signal “1” is turned on and transmitted to the hall computer or the calling device 100. Then, at the end of BB (BB1, BB2), the big hit signal “1” is turned off.

  In the present embodiment, when the RB (BB3) is activated, the big hit signal “2” is turned on and transmitted to the hall computer or the calling device 100. Then, at the end of RB (BB3), the big hit signal “2” is turned off. Further, when the big hit signal “3” is on, the big hit signal “3” is turned off. The big hit signal “3” is turned on when an output counter, which will be described later, becomes zero.

[Pattern winning action flag data table]
Next, the symbol corresponding winning action flag data table will be described with reference to FIG. The symbol corresponding winning action flag data table defines the correspondence between the reel type and the internal winning combination data that can be displayed according to the symbol of each reel displayed on the winning determination line. That is, by referring to the symbol corresponding winning action flag data table, the internal winning combination that can be displayed at that time can be determined. The symbol corresponding winning action flag data table is provided corresponding to the symbol combination table (see FIG. 14).

  For example, when the symbol “don” is stopped and displayed on the winning determination line of the left reel 3L, it can be displayed in the storage areas 1 to 29 corresponding to the symbol code “00000001” (don) in the reel type “left”. “1” is stored in the bit corresponding to the internal winning combination. The data defined in the symbol corresponding winning action flag data table is logically AND stored with data stored in a symbol code storage area (see FIG. 30) described later.

<Configuration of storage area provided in main RAM>
Next, the configuration of various storage areas provided in the main RAM 53 will be described with reference to FIGS. Although not described here (not shown), the main RAM 53 is also provided with storage areas for various control data, various flags, various counters and the like used for the various reel effects described above.

[Display combination storage area]
First, the configuration of the display combination storing area will be described with reference to FIG. In the present embodiment, the display combination storage area includes display combination storage areas 1 to 29 each represented by 1-byte data.

  In each of the display combination storage areas 1 to 29, when “1” stands for a predetermined bit (when stored), a combination of symbols corresponding to the predetermined bit is displayed on the active line. Indicates. On the other hand, when all the bits are “0”, it indicates that the symbol combination related to winning is not displayed on the active line.

[Game state flag storage area]
Next, the configuration of the game state flag storage area will be described with reference to FIG. The gaming state flag storage area is composed of gaming state flag storage areas 1 and 2 each represented by 1-byte data. In the present embodiment, in the game state flag, a unique bonus type or RT type is assigned to each bit of the game state flag storage areas 1 and 2.

[Operation stop button storage area]
Next, the configuration of the operation stop button storage area will be described with reference to FIG. The operation stop button storage area stores an operation stop button flag consisting of 1 byte. In the operation stop button flag, the operation state of the stop button is assigned to each bit.

[Push order storage area]
Next, the configuration of the pressing order storage area will be described with reference to FIG. The pressing order storage area stores a pressing order flag consisting of 1 byte. In the pressing order flag, the type of stop button pressing order is assigned to each bit. For example, when the pressing order of the stop button is “left middle right”, “1” is stored in bit 0 of the pressing order storage area.

[Design code storage area]
Next, the configuration of the symbol code storage area will be described with reference to FIG. The symbol code storage area stores, for each active line, the symbol code (symbol code storage region 1) of the symbol of the reel that was most recently stopped and the displayable symbols (symbol code storage regions 2 to 29). The After all the reels are stopped, the symbol codes corresponding to the display combination are stored in the symbol code storage areas 2 to 29.

  In this embodiment, when the stop control position is determined, the winning operation flag data corresponding to the symbol (code) of the stop control position is read from the symbol corresponding winning operation flag data table (see FIG. 25), and the winning operation flag is read out. The data is ANDed with the data already stored in the symbol code storage area. Then, the ANDed data is stored in the symbol code storage area shown in FIG. When a plurality of effective lines are provided, the same number of symbol code storage areas as the number of effective lines are provided.

<Game state transition flow>
Next, with reference to FIG. 31, a transition flow of the gaming state between “RT0 gaming state” to “RT3 gaming state” and “BB gaming state” controlled by the main CPU 51 will be described.

  As described above, in the pachislot machine 1 according to the present embodiment, four types of gaming states of “RT0 gaming state” to “RT3 gaming state” are provided as RT gaming states. Then, the main control circuit 41 (main CPU 51) refers to the RT transition table (see FIG. 16) and, as shown in FIG. 31, between “RT0 gaming state” to “RT3 gaming state” and “BB gaming state”. Control transitions.

[Correspondence table of internal winning combination and stop order]
Next, the correspondence between the internal winning combination and the stop order will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 32 is a correspondence table between internal winning combinations and stop orders, and shows the types of display combinations corresponding to the stop orders.

  “RT0 transition lip” described in FIG. 32 indicates a display combination (“C_RT0 lip 1 to 10”) in which transition to the RT0 gaming state (general gaming state) is determined. “RT2 transition lip” indicates a display combination (“C_RT2 lip 1 to 12”) in which transition to the RT2 gaming state (ART state) is determined. “Normal lip” indicates a display combination related to re-playing regardless of the transition of the RT0 gaming state and the RT2 gaming state.

[Correspondence table of internal winning combination, stop order and RT transition]
Next, with reference to FIG. 33, the correspondence relationship between the internal winning combination, the stop order, and the RT transition will be described. FIG. 33 is a correspondence table of the internal winning combination, the stop order, and the RT transition, and shows the RT game state transition destination according to the stop order.

  For example, when the small role / replay data pointer is “2”, the combination of symbols related to “normal lip” is stopped and displayed on condition that the stop order is “left middle right” or “left and right middle”. Is done. As a result, the symbol combination related to “RT0 transition lip” is not stopped and displayed, and the transition to the RT0 gaming state is avoided. Further, when the small role / replay data pointer is “5”, the combination of symbols related to “RT2 transition lip” is stopped and displayed on condition that the stop order is “middle left and right”. As a result, the RT gaming state shifts to the RT2 gaming state.

<Description of sub game state>
Next, the sub gaming state will be described with reference to FIG. In the present embodiment, various game states related to effects controlled by the sub control circuit 42 (sub CPU 81) are referred to as “sub game states”. In the present embodiment, the general state, chance zone (CZ), D_ART, B_ART, G_ART (G zone), R_ART (rocket zone), and viking rush (VR) are set as the sub gaming state.

  The general state and the chance zone are sub game states in which the ART is not activated. On the other hand, D_ART, B_ART, G_ART, R_ART and Viking Rush are sub gaming states in which ART operates.

<Configuration of data table stored in sub-ROM>
Next, the configuration of various data tables stored in the sub ROM 82 will be described.

[Special lottery table]
First, the special lottery table will be described with reference to FIG. The special lottery table defines the changed small role / replay data pointer to be changed according to the data pointer and the game lock flag.

[Lottery flag lottery table]
Next, a part of the lottery flag lottery table will be described with reference to FIG. The lottery flag lottery table defines the value of the lottery flag according to the bonus data pointer, the small role / replay data pointer, and the game lock flag.

  In this embodiment, lottery flags A-1, A-2, A-3, lottery flags B-1, B-2, B-3, lottery flag D, lottery flag G, lottery flag H, lottery flag I. -1, I-2, lottery flag J and lottery flag K are determined.

  FIG. 36 shows a lottery flag A-1 lottery table. The lottery flag A-1 lottery table defines the value of the lottery flag A-1 according to the data pointer and the game lock flag. For example, when the small role / replay data pointer is “0” or “18”, “0” is set as the lottery flag A-1 regardless of the value of the bonus data pointer and the game lock flag. It is determined. The lottery table for other lottery flags is omitted.

[ART lottery table]
Next, a part of the ART lottery table will be described with reference to FIG. The ART lottery table is referred to when performing ART lottery during non-ART and during non-bonus. This ART lottery table shows a correspondence relationship between the lottery result values ("0" to "7") corresponding to the contents of winning the ART and the lottery values set in accordance with the lottery flag A-1.

  In the ART lottery using the ART lottery table, first, a random number value extracted from a predetermined numerical range (0 to 32767 and random number denominator = 32768 in this embodiment) is defined for each lottery result value. Subtract sequentially by lottery value. Next, it is determined whether or not the result of subtraction has become negative (whether or not a so-called “digit” has occurred). When the subtraction result becomes negative (“digit” occurs), the lottery result at that time is won.

  FIG. 37 shows an ART lottery table (part 1). This ART lottery table (part 1) is referred to when the sub gaming state is “general state”, “setting 1”, and “between non-flags”.

[General and CZ ART stock area sorting lottery table]
Next, a part of the general and CZ ART stock area sorting lottery table will be described with reference to FIG. The general and CZ ART stock area sorting lottery table is referenced when “D_ART” or “B_ART” is won in a non-ART and non-bonus ART lottery and the stock area for storing the information is determined. Is done.

  The general and CZ ART stock area sorting lottery table shows the correspondence between the lottery result value ("0" or "1") corresponding to the ART stock area and the lottery value set in accordance with the lottery flag A-1. Indicates.

[Table number determination table for general and CZ stock]
Next, with reference to FIG. 39, the table number determination table for general and CZ stock will be described. General and CZ stock table number determination table determines the table number that is part of the winning information by winning “D_ART” or “B_ART” in the ART lottery during non-ART and non-bonus Referenced in case.

  The table number determination table at the time of general stock and CZ stock defines the first lottery table type value ("0" to "5") and the table number set according to the lottery flag A-1. As shown in FIG. 39, when referring to the table number determination table for general and CZ stock, “0” is always determined as the table number.

  Detailed descriptions of other ART lottery tables and table number determination tables are omitted. ART stock area allocation lottery table during ART, ART stock non-consumed lottery table, stock content determination table of ART lottery result, billy touch correct / incorrect answer lottery table when VR locked, billy touch lottery table during VR, VR revolution during VR The description of the lottery table, the ART precursor game number lottery table, and the ART predictor game number lottery table is also omitted.

[Title lottery table for development performance 1]
Next, the development effect 1 title lottery table will be described with reference to FIG. The development effect 1 title lottery table is referred to when the “title” of the development effect 1 is determined.

  The development effect 1 of the present embodiment includes a game that displays the “title” of the development effect 1 on the liquid crystal display device 11 (hereinafter referred to as “title display game”), at least one game thereafter, and a maximum of six games. It is an effect performed continuously over the game. In the present embodiment, the number of games continued after the “title display game” is set as the “number of continued games”.

  That is, the case where “Development effect 1” is the shortest is the case where “Number of continuing games” is “1”. In this case, “Development effect 1” is executed over two games including “title display game” and “number of continuing games”.

  The development effect 1 title lottery table indicates a correspondence relationship between the values of “title No.” (“1” to “6”) corresponding to the title and lottery values set in accordance with various states. Note that (normal), (gorgeous), and (gorgeous firework pattern) in the development effect 1 title lottery table indicate display modes (colors and patterns) of the titles “Bocco” or “Gormu”.

  In the title lottery referring to the development effect 1 title lottery table, first, a random number value extracted from a predetermined numerical range (0 to 32767 and random number denominator = 32768 in this embodiment) is used as the lottery result value. It subtracts sequentially with the lottery value specified every time. Next, it is determined whether or not the result of subtraction has become negative (whether or not a so-called “digit” has occurred). When the subtraction result becomes negative (“digit” occurs), the lottery result at that time is won.

  In the development effect 1 title lottery table, “F” of “CZ precursor_F_4G” means fake. Therefore, the case of “CZ precursor_F_4G” is a case of a CZ precursor game in which CZ is not started after completion and the number of CZ precursor games is “4”. Further, “CZ precursor 4G or more” is a case where the CZ precursor game starts CZ after completion and the number of CZ precursor games is “4” or more.

  For example, if the title lottery referring to the title lottery table for development effect 1 is “CZ precursor_F_4G”, “1 (Bocco (normal))” is “28963 / It is determined with a probability of 32768. In the case of “CZ precursor 4G or more”, “1 (Bocco (normal))” is determined as the “title No.” with a probability of 27939/32768.

[Production number determination table for development effect 1]
Next, the development number 1 production number determination table will be described with reference to FIG. The development effect 1 production number determination table is referred to when the “development production 1 production number” is determined based on the “scenario No.” determined by lottery. The production number determination table for the development effect 1 is based on the value of “scenario No.” (“1” to “93”) corresponding to the scenario content and the number of continuous games (“1” to “6”). The “production number for development effect 1” is defined.

  FIG. 41 shows an effect number determination table for development effect 1 (part 1). This development effect 1 production number determination table (part 1) is referred to when the development production 1 title is “Bocco”, and “development production” corresponding to “scenario No.” “1” to “44”. “1 production number” is defined.

  The display of the development number 1 production number determination table (part 2) is omitted. This development effect 1 production number determination table (part 2) is referred to when the development production 1 title is “Bocco”, and corresponds to “scenario No.” “45” to “93” “development production”. “1 production number” is defined.

[Direction determination table for development effect 1]
Next, with reference to FIG. 42, an effect determination table for development effect 1 will be described. The development determination table for development effect 1 defines a correspondence relationship between “production number for development effect 1”, “production name”, and “production content”. That is, when “the production number for development effect 1” is determined, “production name” and “production content” are uniquely acquired.

  For example, when “9” is determined as the “production number for development effect 1”, “bocco-weak-win” is determined as the “production name”, and “lever ON: opposite-bocco” “1on: Weak avoidance-Bocco, 3on: Stop Bocco, 3off: Win-Bocco, Next BET: Go to WIN screen” is determined.

[Scenario rewriting lottery table]
Next, a part of the scenario rewriting lottery table will be described with reference to FIG. The scenario rewriting lottery table defines the correspondence between “scenario No.” and lottery values set according to “rewriting destination”.

  In the present embodiment, in the development effect 1, first, “title” and “scenario No.” are determined. When the start lever 16 is operated to start a game in which the development effect 1 is executed, a scenario rewriting lottery is performed in which the determined “scenario No.” is rewritten according to the sub game state and the like.

  In the scenario rewriting lottery with reference to the scenario rewriting lottery table, first, a random number value extracted from a predetermined numerical range (0 to 32767 and random number denominator = 32768 in this embodiment) is determined for each lottery result value. Subtract sequentially with the specified lottery value. Next, it is determined whether or not the result of subtraction has become negative (whether or not a so-called “digit” has occurred). When the subtraction result becomes negative (“digit” occurs), the lottery result at that time is won.

  FIG. 43 shows a scenario rewriting lottery table (part 1). The scenario rewriting lottery table (part 1) is referred to when the continuous game of “Development effect 1” is “1G (game)”, the sub game state is “general state”, and “other”. Here, the “other” case is a case where none of the scenario rewriting lottery tables described later is selected.

  As shown in FIG. 43, when the continuous game of “Development effect 1” is “1G” and the sub game state is “General state” and “Other”, the “Scenario No.” is rewritten. Not performed. That is, the “development effect 1” is executed according to the “scenario No.” determined before the start lever 16 is operated.

[Development production 2 map lottery table]
Next, a part of the development effect 2 map lottery table will be described with reference to FIG. The development effect 2 map lottery table is referred to when “map No.” related to “development effect 2” is determined. The development lottery 2 map lottery table includes “map No.” values (“1” to “60”) corresponding to “map contents” and lottery values set in accordance with various precursor states. The correspondence is shown.

  In the map lottery referring to the development effect 2 map lottery table, first, a random number value extracted from a predetermined numerical range (0 to 32767 and random number denominator = 32768 in this embodiment) is used as the lottery result value. It subtracts sequentially with the lottery value specified every time. Next, it is determined whether or not the result of subtraction has become negative (whether or not a so-called “digit” has occurred). When the subtraction result becomes negative (“digit” occurs), the lottery result at that time is won.

  FIG. 44 shows the development effect 2 map lottery table (part 1). The development effect 2 map lottery table (part 1) and the development effect 2 map lottery table (part 2) (not shown) are referred to when the “title” of the development effect 2 is “golm (normal)”. .

  If the map lottery state with reference to the development effect 2 map lottery table is “CZ precursor_F_4G”, for example, “3 (weak 3G (3G in total))” as “map No.” Is determined with a probability of 9993/32768. In the case of “CZ precursor 4G or more”, “3 (weak 3G (total 3G))” is determined with a probability of 9737/32768 as “map No.”.

[Production lottery table number determination table]
Next, the effect lottery table number determination table will be described with reference to FIG. The effect lottery table number determination table is referred to when determining the “effect lottery table number” based on the “map No.” determined by lottery. The effect lottery table number determination table is displayed according to the “map No.” value (“1” to “60”) corresponding to the map content and the number of continued games (“1” to “7”). “Lottery table number” is defined.

  The effect lottery table number determination table shown in FIG. 45 is referred to when the “title” of the development effect 2 is “Golm”. As shown in FIG. 45, for example, when “Map No.” is “1” and the number of continuing games is “1”, “1” is determined as “Production lottery table number”. Further, when “Map No.” is “7” and the number of continuing games is “3”, “2” is determined as “Production lottery table number”.

[Direction lottery table]
Next, a part of the effect lottery table will be described with reference to FIG. The effect lottery table is referred to when the effect lottery for determining the effect number for development effect 2 is performed. The effect lottery table indicates a correspondence relationship between the value of the “production number for development effect 2” corresponding to the content of the effect and the lottery values set in accordance with various signs.

  In the effect lottery referring to the effect lottery table, first, a random number value extracted from a predetermined numerical range (0 to 32767 and random number denominator = 32768 in this embodiment) is defined for each lottery result value. Subtract sequentially by lottery value. Next, it is determined whether or not the result of subtraction has become negative (whether or not a so-called “digit” has occurred). When the subtraction result becomes negative (“digit” occurs), the lottery result at that time is won.

  FIG. 46 shows an effect lottery table for table number 1 (part 1). For example, when the state of various precursors is “CZ precursor 4G” (see FIG. 46), “13 (VS Golm-Gorm Small Attack-Lose)” is 4096/32768 as “Development Effect 2 Production Number”. Win with a probability of.

[Map rewriting lottery table]
Next, a part of the map rewriting lottery table will be described with reference to FIG. The map rewriting lottery table defines the correspondence between “map No.” and lottery values set in accordance with “rewriting destination”.

  In the present embodiment, in the development effect 2, first, “Title” and “Map No.” are determined. Then, in order to start the game in the development effect 2, a map rewriting lottery is performed in which the determined “map No.” is rewritten according to various precursor states when the start lever 16 is operated.

  In the map rewriting lottery referring to the map rewriting lottery table, first, a random number value extracted from a predetermined numerical range (0 to 32767 and random number denominator = 32768 in this embodiment) is calculated for each lottery result value. Subtract sequentially with the specified lottery value. Next, it is determined whether or not the result of subtraction has become negative (whether or not a so-called “digit” has occurred). When the subtraction result becomes negative (“digit” occurs), the lottery result at that time is won.

  FIG. 47 shows a map rewriting lottery table (part 1). The map rewriting lottery table (No. 1) is referred to when the continuous game of “Development effect 2” is “1G (game)”, the sub game state is “general state”, and “other”. Here, the “other” case is a case where none of the map rewriting lottery tables described later is selected.

  As shown in FIG. 47, when the continuous game of “Development effect 2” is “1G” and the sub game state is “General state” and “Other”, the “Map No.” is rewritten. Not performed. That is, “Development effect 2” according to “Map No.” determined before operating the start lever 16 is executed.

[Direction rewriting condition table]
Next, the effect rewriting condition table will be described with reference to FIG. The effect rewriting condition table includes “end effect number for development effect 1” and “effect number for development effect 2” and the end of the development effect set according to the value of the lottery flag K (“0” to “4”). Stipulated in the correspondence relationship.

  The “○” mark in the effect rewriting condition table indicates “development effect 1” in which the corresponding “development effect 1 effect number” is determined or “development effect 2” in which “development effect 2 effect number” is determined. Indicates end.

  “Don-chan”, the main character, is revived in the productions corresponding to “18” of “production number for development effect 1” and “54”, “55”, “25” of “production number for development effect 2”. It is directing. In the game before “Don-chan” is revived, the result of the battle (win / loss) is once derived (displayed on the liquid crystal display device 11).

  In other words, in the game before “Don-chan” revives, it appears that the battle (development effect) will end, so the development effect is contrary to the originally determined “scenario No.” or “map No.” effect. The player does not feel uncomfortable even after ending. This is because it is not possible for the player to determine whether the development effect has not been revived from the beginning, or whether it was a development effect that was scheduled to be revived but ended forcibly.

  In an effect corresponding to “54” of “effect number for development effect 2”, “Don-chan” is revived, but a display notifying the loss (failure) is performed. That is, the effect corresponding to “54” of the “effect number for development effect 2” is merely an effect that is additionally performed to give a sense of expectation, and is not necessarily required.

  Therefore, in this embodiment, when it is a time when there is no problem even if the development effect (continuous effect) is forcibly ended, for example, a rare role with a high expectation level where “ART” or “bonus” is won is won. Then, the development effect (continuous effect) that was scheduled to be executed is canceled. Then, the effect when the development effect is not performed is determined by lottery and executed.

  In addition, when it is a time when there is no problem even if the development effect (continuous effect) is forcibly ended, if a reel action or freeze (game lock) or the like that does not match the execution time in the normal effect occurs, it is executed. Cancel the planned development (continuous production). Then, the effect when the development effect is not performed is determined by lottery and executed.

  For the effects corresponding to “18” of “Development effect 1 effect number” and “55” and “25” of “Development effect 2 effect number”, “Don-chan” is revived and the winning (success) is notified. Display. The display for notifying the winner (success) is an announcement of “ART” winning (may be a bonus winning).

  Therefore, if the development effect (continuous effect) is forcibly terminated, the winning of “ART” will not be notified, so the stage of “ART” starting after the winning notification of “ART” It becomes impossible to step on. As a result, there is a possibility that the gameability may be unclear, or that the effect of expectation will not be meaningful.

  As described above, the effects corresponding to “18” of “Development effect 1 effect number” and “55” and “25” of “Development effect 2 effect number” are “54. Unlike the production corresponding to “”, it is not preferable to forcibly end the production. However, if a freeze (game lock) occurs, the winning of “ART” is confirmed. The freeze itself corresponds to the “ART” winning announcement.

  Therefore, the development effect (continuous effect) is forcibly terminated only when a freeze occurs (that is, when the winning of “ART” is confirmed and the player can recognize that fact). Then, an effect based on “freeze” is determined by lottery and executed.

<Configuration of storage area provided in sub-RAM>
[Sub storage area]
Next, the configuration of the sub storage area provided in the sub RAM 83 will be described with reference to FIG. In addition, although description is omitted here (not shown), various data such as a storage area for registering the above-described effect content and effect number, and an internal winning combination transmitted from the main control circuit 41 (see FIG. 11) A storage area for storing.

  The sub storage area includes “ART stock area A”, “ART stock area B”, “G_ART stock area”, “rocket flag storage area”, and the like. “ART stock area A” indicates a specific example of the notification storage area according to the present invention, and “ART stock area B” indicates a specific example of the non-notification storage area according to the present invention.

  In “ART stock area A”, winning information of “D_ART” or “B_ART” scheduled to be displayed (notified) is stored. In this “ART stock area A”, 256 pieces of winning information can be stored. In addition, in “ART stock area B”, winning information of “D_ART” or “B_ART” scheduled to hide (not notify) the winning is stored. In this “ART stock area B”, 256 pieces of winning information can be stored.

  “ART” winning information stored in “ART stock area A” or “ART stock area B” includes “ART” identification data (“0” to “2”) and identification data for the table number of the stock trigger. ("0" to "9"). When the winning “ART” is “B_ART”, the identification data of “ART” becomes “1”, and when the winning “ART” is “D_ART”, the identification data of “ART” becomes “2”. Become. The table number of the stock opportunity is determined with reference to the above-described various table number determination tables (FIG. 39) and the like.

  In the present embodiment, it is executed preferentially from “ART” corresponding to the winning information of “ART” stored in “ART stock area A”. When all the “ART” corresponding to the “ART” winning information stored in the “ART stock area A” is executed, the “ART” winning information stored in the “ART stock area B” is handled. It is executed in the order in which “ART” is stored.

  That is, in the present embodiment, “ART” informed of winning is preferentially executed, and thereafter “ART” not informed of winning is executed. As a result, it is possible to make it impossible to easily guess the timing and trigger when the winning of “ART” for which the winning is not notified is determined.

  In addition, after all “ART” s that have been notified of winning are executed, the player has a sense of expectation whether or not “ART” will be executed next every time “ART” ends. And can increase the interest of the game.

[Table number and correspondence table]
Next, with reference to FIG. 50, the correspondence between table numbers and various states will be described. FIG. 50 shows a correspondence table between table numbers and various states.

  For example, when the value of “table number” is “0”, “general state” or “CZ (chance zone)” is indicated. Therefore, if “0” is stored as the value of “table number” in various ART stock areas, it means that “ART” is won in “general state” or “CZ (chance zone)”.

[Correspondence table between loop mode data and loop mode]
Next, the correspondence between loop mode data and loop mode will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 51 is a correspondence table between loop mode data and loop modes, and shows various loop modes corresponding to the loop mode data.

  For example, when the value of “loop mode data” is “1”, “loop mode 1” is set. When “Loop Mode 1” is set in “D_ART”, 33% of the result of the continuous stock lottery performed every game until the game (game) related to one set of “D_ART” is consumed. Win the continuation stock with probability.

<Description of main control circuit operation>
Next, the contents of various processes executed by the main CPU 51 of the main control circuit 41 using a program will be described with reference to FIGS.

[Main operation processing of pachislot by control of main CPU]
First, the procedure of main operation processing of the pachislot machine 1 performed under the control of the main CPU 51 will be described with reference to a main flowchart (hereinafter referred to as a main flow) shown in FIG.

  First, when the power is turned on to the pachislot machine 1, the main CPU 51 performs an initialization process when the power is turned on (S1). In this initialization process, it is determined whether the backup has been normally performed, whether the setting has been changed appropriately, and the like, and initialization corresponding to the determination result is performed.

  Next, the main CPU 51 performs an initialization process at the end of one game (S2). In this initialization process, the data in the designated storage area in the main RAM 53 is cleared. Note that the designated storage area here is a storage area that needs to be erased for each game, such as an internal winning combination storage area or a display combination storage area.

  Next, the main CPU 51 performs medal acceptance / start check processing (S3). In this processing, input checks of the medal sensor 35S and the start switch 16S are performed. Details of the medal acceptance / start check process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Next, the main CPU 51 extracts random values (0 to 65535) and stores the extracted random values in a random value storage area (not shown) provided in the main RAM 53 (S4). Next, the main CPU 51 extracts an effect random number value used in the reel effect and lock control in the “continuous lock state”, and uses the extracted effect random number value in the effect random value storage area (not stored) provided in the main RAM 53. (S5). In the present embodiment, the production random number value is extracted from the range of 0 to 32767.

  When the extracted various random number values are stored in a predetermined random value storage area, the main CPU 51 performs an internal lottery process (S6). In this process, the internal winning combination is determined by lottery based on the random value extracted in S4. The details of the internal lottery process will be described later with reference to FIG. 54 described later. In addition, here, the main CPU 51 performs a game lock lottery process to determine a game lock flag, sets a reel effect pattern according to the game lock flag, and locks the start of reel rotation for a predetermined period.

  Next, the main CPU 51 performs reel stop initial setting processing (S8). Details of the reel stop initial setting process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Next, the main CPU 51 performs a start command transmission process (S9). Specifically, the main CPU 51 transmits a start command to the sub control circuit 42. Note that the start command includes a parameter for specifying an internal winning combination.

  Next, the main CPU 51 performs a game start lock process (S10). In this process, the reel effect and lock at the start of the game corresponding to the type of reel effect and lock performed in the “continuous lock state” determined in the process of S8 are mainly performed.

  Next, the main CPU 51 performs a wait process (S11). In this process, when the predetermined time (for example, 4.1 seconds) has not elapsed since the start of the previous game, the main CPU 51 digests the waiting time until the predetermined time elapses.

  Next, the main CPU 51 performs a reel rotation start process (S12). In this process, the main CPU 51 requests the start of rotation of all reels. When the start of rotation of all reels is requested, the driving of the three stepping motors 61L, 61C, and 61R is controlled by an interrupt process (see FIG. 61) described later that is executed at a constant cycle (1.1172 msec). Then, the rotation of the left reel 3L, the middle reel 3C, and the right reel 3R is started. At this time, each reel is subjected to acceleration control until the rotation speed reaches a constant speed, and then controlled so as to maintain the constant speed.

  Next, the main CPU 51 performs a pull-in priority storage process, but the description thereof is omitted here. In this process, the main CPU 51 acquires the drawing priority data and stores it in the drawing priority data storage area, and also performs a symbol code storage process.

  Next, the main CPU 51 performs a reel stop control process (S14). In this process, the rotation of the corresponding reel is stopped based on the timing when the left stop button 17L, the middle stop button 17C, and the right stop button 17R are respectively pressed and the internal winning combination. The details of the reel stop control process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Next, the main CPU 51 performs a winning search process (S15). In this process, the main CPU 51 stores the data of the symbol code storage area (after symbol code storage area 2 in FIG. 30) in the display combination storage area (see FIG. 28). In this process, the symbol combination displayed on the effective line (winning determination line) after all of the left reel 3L, the middle reel 3C and the right reel 3R are stopped is collated with the symbol combination table (see FIG. 14). . Then, the main CPU 51 may determine whether or not the display combination is displayed on the active line, and store the determination result in the display combination storage area.

  Next, the main CPU 51 performs medal payout processing (S16). In this process, the hopper 33 is driven and the number of credits is updated based on the payout number of the display combination determined in S15, and medals are paid out. At this time, in the present embodiment, as shown in the symbol combination table (see FIG. 14), the number of inserted medals is one or three, and the number of medals to be paid out varies depending on the display combination, but the maximum payout. The number of sheets (payout upper limit) is 15.

  Next, the main CPU 51 performs RT control processing (S17). In this process, the main CPU 51 manages the RT gaming state.

  Next, the main CPU 51 performs a game end effect control process (S18). In this process, the output of the jackpot signal is controlled according to a predetermined condition.

  Next, the main CPU 51 performs a payout end command transmission process (S19). Specifically, the main CPU 51 transmits a payout end command to the sub control circuit 42.

  Next, the main CPU 51 performs a bonus end check process (S20). In this process, the main CPU 51 refers to various counters for managing the end timing of the bonus game and checks whether or not the operation of the bonus game is to end.

  Next, the main CPU 51 performs a bonus operation check process (S21). In this process, the main CPU 51 checks whether or not to start the operation of the bonus game and whether or not to replay. Details of the bonus operation check process will be described later with reference to FIG. 59 described later. When the bonus operation check process ends, the main CPU 51 returns the process to S2, and repeats the processes after S2.

[Medal reception / start check processing]
Next, with reference to FIG. 53, the medal acceptance / start check process performed in S3 in the main flow (see FIG. 52) will be described.

  First, the main CPU 51 determines whether or not there is an automatic insertion request (S31). The presence / absence of the automatic insertion request is determined by determining whether or not the automatic insertion counter is “0”. That is, the main CPU 51 determines that there is no automatic input request when the automatic input counter is “0”, and determines that there is an automatic input request when the automatic input counter is “1” or more.

  The automatic insertion counter is data for identifying whether or not a display combination related to re-playing has been established in the previous unit game. When the display combination related to the re-game is established, the medals for the number of coins inserted in the previous unit game are automatically inserted into the automatic insertion counter.

  When the main CPU 51 determines in S31 that there is an automatic loading request (when S31 is YES), the main CPU 51 performs an automatic loading process (S32). In this process, the value of the automatic insertion counter is copied to the insertion number counter, and then the value of the automatic insertion counter is cleared. Thereafter, the main CPU 51 performs a process of S39 described later.

  On the other hand, when the main CPU 51 determines in S31 that there is no automatic insertion request (when S31 is NO), the main CPU 51 permits medal acceptance (S33). In this process, the solenoid of the selector 35 (see FIG. 10) is driven, and medals inserted from the medal insertion slot 13 are accepted. The received medals are counted and guided to the hopper 33.

  Next, the main CPU 51 sets the maximum number of inserted sheets according to the gaming state (S34). Specifically, in the BB3 (RB3) game state, the maximum value of the inserted number is set to “1”, and in the other game states (BB1, BB2 game state and general game state), the maximum value of the inserted number is set to “3”. To "".

  Next, the main CPU 51 determines whether or not the medal acceptance is permitted (S35). In S35, when the main CPU 51 determines that the medal acceptance is not permitted (when S35 is NO), the main CPU 51 performs a process of S39 described later.

  On the other hand, when the main CPU 51 determines in S35 that the medal acceptance is permitted (S35 is YES), the main CPU 51 performs a medal insertion check process (S36). In this process, the main CPU 51 determines whether or not a medal is inserted, and adds “1” to the inserted number counter when a medal is inserted.

  Next, the main CPU 51 transmits a medal insertion command to the sub control circuit 42 (S37). The medal insertion command includes a parameter for specifying the number of inserted coins.

  Next, the main CPU 51 determines whether or not the inserted number is a game start possible number (S38). In S38, when the main CPU 51 determines that the inserted number is not the game start possible number (when S38 is NO), the main CPU 51 returns the process to S35 and repeats the processes after S35. On the other hand, when the main CPU 51 determines in S38 that the inserted number is the game start possible number (when S38 is YES), the main CPU 51 performs the process of S39 described later. In this embodiment, the number of games that can be started in the BB3 (RB3) gaming state is “1”, and the number of games that can be started in other gaming states (BB1, BB2 gaming state and general gaming state) is “3”. Yes (see FIG. 17).

  Next, the main CPU 51 determines whether or not the start switch is on (S39). When the main CPU 51 determines in S39 that the start switch is not on (when S39 is NO), the main CPU 51 returns the process to S35 and repeats the processes after S35.

  On the other hand, when the main CPU 51 determines in S39 that the start switch is on (when S39 is YES), the main CPU 51 performs a medal acceptance prohibition process (S40). With this process, the solenoid of the selector 35 (see FIG. 10) is not driven, and the inserted medal is discharged from the medal payout opening 18. When this process ends, the main CPU 51 ends the medal acceptance / start check process, and moves the process to S4 of the main flow (see FIG. 52).

[Internal lottery processing]
Next, with reference to FIG. 54, the internal lottery process performed in S6 in the main flow (see FIG. 52) will be described. In the present embodiment, internal lottery processing using various internal lottery tables described below is executed by the main control circuit 41. That is, in the present embodiment, the main control circuit 41 also serves as means for executing internal lottery processing (internal winning combination determining means).

  First, the main CPU 51 sets an internal lottery table corresponding to the gaming state (S41). That is, the main CPU 51 grasps the current gaming state with reference to the gaming state flag storage area (see FIG. 27), and determines the type and number of lottery of the internal lottery table based on the internal lottery table determination table (see FIG. 17). decide. The number of lotteries indicates the number of times of lottery value subtraction and determination of whether or not a digit has occurred for each winning number defined by the internal lottery table.

  Next, the main CPU 51 performs lottery value change processing (S42). In this process, the lottery value of the winning number related to the re-game is changed according to the game state. Details of the lottery value changing process will be described later with reference to FIG. 55 described later.

  Next, the main CPU 51 acquires a random value stored in the random value storage area (S43). Then, the main CPU 51 sets “1” as the initial value of the winning number.

  Next, the main CPU 51 acquires a lottery value corresponding to the winning number with reference to the internal lottery table, and subtracts the lottery value from the random number value (S44).

  Next, the main CPU 51 determines whether or not the calculation result in S44 is less than 0 (negative value) (S45).

  When the main CPU 51 determines in S45 that the calculation result is not less than 0 (when S45 is NO), the main CPU 51 updates the random number value and the winning number (S46). Specifically, the value of the calculation result is set to a random value, and the winning number is incremented by one.

  Next, the main CPU 51 determines whether or not all winning numbers have been checked (S47). When it is determined in S47 that the main CPU 51 has not checked all the winning numbers (when S47 is NO), the main CPU 51 returns the process to S44 and repeats the processes after S44.

  On the other hand, when it is determined in S47 that the main CPU 51 has checked all the winning numbers (when S47 is YES), the main CPU 51 sets “0” as the data pointer (S48). That is, the main CPU 51 sets “0” as the small role / replay data pointer and the bonus data pointer.

  Here, returning to the description of the processing of S45 again, when the main CPU 51 determines in S45 that the calculation result is less than 0 (negative value) (when S45 is YES), the main CPU 51 According to the winning number, a small role / replay data pointer and a bonus data pointer are acquired (S49).

  Then, after the processing of S48 or S49, the main CPU 51 refers to the small winning combination / replay internal winning combination determining table (see FIG. 20), and acquires the internal winning combination based on the small winning combination / replay data pointer (S50). ).

  Next, the main CPU 51 stores the acquired internal winning combination in the internal winning combination storing area (S51).

  Next, the main CPU 51 determines whether or not the data stored in the carryover combination storage area is “00000000” (S52). In S52, when the main CPU 51 determines that the data stored in the carryover combination storage area is not “00000000” (when S52 is NO), the main CPU 51 performs the process of S57 described later.

  On the other hand, when the main CPU 51 determines in S52 that the data stored in the carryover combination storage area is “00000000” (when S52 is YES), the main CPU 51 determines the internal winning combination determination table for bonus ( Referring to FIG. 19), an internal winning combination is acquired based on the bonus data pointer (S53).

  Next, the main CPU 51 stores the acquired internal winning combination in the carryover combination storing area (S54).

  Next, the main CPU 51 determines whether or not any of bits 0 to 2 of the carryover combination storage area 1 is “1” (S55). In S55, when the main CPU 51 determines that any of bits 0 to 2 in the carryover combination storage area 1 is not "1" (when S55 is NO), the main CPU 51 performs the process of S57 described later. .

  On the other hand, when the main CPU 51 determines in S55 that any of the bits 0 to 2 in the carryover combination storage area 1 is “1” (when S55 is YES), the main CPU 51 sets the RT3 gaming state flag. The game state flag storage area is updated by setting (S56). Specifically, “1” is stored (set) in bit 3 of the game state flag storage area 2 (see FIG. 27).

  Next, the main CPU 51 updates the internal winning combination storing area based on the internal winning combination stored in the carryover combination storing area (S57). Thereafter, the main CPU 51 ends the internal lottery process and moves the process to S7 of the main flow (see FIG. 52).

[Lottery value change processing]
Next, with reference to FIG. 55, the lottery value changing process performed in S42 in the flowchart of the internal lottery process (see FIG. 54) will be described.

  First, the main CPU 51 refers to the gaming state flag storage area (see FIG. 27) to determine whether or not the RT gaming state flag is on (S61). Specifically, the main CPU 51 determines whether or not “1” is set in any of the bits 0 to 3 in the gaming state flag storage area 2 (see FIG. 27). Then, in S61, when the main CPU 51 determines that the RT gaming state flag is not on (when S61 is NO), the main CPU 51 ends the lottery value changing process, and the process is an internal lottery process (see FIG. 54). ) To S43.

  On the other hand, when the main CPU 51 determines in S61 that the RT gaming state flag is on (when S61 is YES), the main CPU 51 determines that the RT internal lottery table corresponding to the RT gaming state that is on. Referring to FIG. 6, the lottery value of the winning number (“33” to “41”) related to the replay in the internal lottery table for general gaming state (not shown) is changed (S62). Thereafter, the main CPU 51 ends the lottery value changing process, and moves the process to S43 of the internal lottery process (see FIG. 54).

[Reel stop initial setting process]
Next, with reference to FIG. 56, the reel stop initial setting process performed in S8 in the main flow (see FIG. 52) will be described.

  First, the main CPU 51 refers to the spinning cylinder stop number selection table (see FIG. 22), and acquires the spinning cylinder stop number based on the internal winning combination acquired in the internal lottery process of S6 in FIG. (S101).

  Next, the main CPU 51 refers to the reel stop initial setting table (see FIG. 23), and acquires various information corresponding to the rotation stop number based on the acquired rotation stop number (S102). Specifically, the main CPU 51, corresponding to the acquired rotation stop number, pull-in priority table selection table number, pull-in priority table number, forward push table selection data, forward push table change data, forward push Time table change initial data and irregular pressing time table selection data are acquired.

  Next, the main CPU 51 stores the rotating identifier “0FFH (11111111B)” in the entire symbol code storage area (see FIG. 30) (S103).

  Next, the main CPU 51 stores “3” in the stop button non-operating counter provided in the main RAM 53 (S104). Thereafter, the main CPU 51 ends the reel stop initial setting process, and moves the process to S9 of the main flow (see FIG. 52). The stop button non-operating counter is a counter for managing the number of stop buttons whose stop operation has not been detected.

[Reel stop control process]
Next, with reference to FIG. 57, the reel stop control process performed in S13 in the main flow (see FIG. 52) will be described. In the present embodiment, the reel stop control process described below is executed by the main control circuit 41. In other words, in the present embodiment, the main control circuit 41 also serves as means for executing reel stop control processing (stop control means).

  First, the main CPU 51 determines whether or not a valid stop button has been pressed (S161). In S161, when the main CPU 51 determines that the effective stop button is not pressed (when S161 is NO), the main CPU 51 repeats the process of S161 and the effective stop button is pressed. Wait until.

  On the other hand, when the main CPU 51 determines in S161 that a valid stop button has been pressed (in the case where S161 is YES), the main CPU 51 stores the pressing order storage area (see FIG. 29) and the operation stop button storage area (see FIG. 28) is updated (S162). Next, the main CPU 51 decrements the stop button non-operating counter by 1 (S163).

  Next, the main CPU 51 determines a search target reel from the operation stop button (S164). Then, the main CPU 51 stores the stop start position in the main RAM 53 based on the symbol counter (S165).

  Next, the main CPU 51 performs a sliding piece number determination process (S166). Next, the main CPU 51 transmits a reel stop command to the sub-control circuit 42 (S167). The reel stop command transmitted in this process includes information such as the type of reel to be stopped, the number of sliding pieces, and the ON / OFF edge of the stop switch. Note that the ON / OFF edge information of the stop switch may be monitored by an interrupt process described later, and the information may be transmitted to the sub-control circuit 42.

  Next, the main CPU 51 determines a planned stop position based on the stop start position and the number of sliding pieces determined in S166, and stores the determined planned stop position in the main RAM 53 (S168). In this process, the main CPU 51 adds the number of sliding frames to the stop start position, and sets the result as the planned stop position.

  Next, the main CPU 51 sets the planned stop position determined in S168 as a search symbol position (S169). Next, the main CPU 51 performs symbol code storage processing (S170). Thereafter, the main CPU 51 updates the symbol code storage area (see FIG. 30) using the acquired symbol code (S171).

  Next, the main CPU 51 performs a control change process (S172). Next, the main CPU 51 determines whether or not the pressed stop button has been released (S173). In S173, when the main CPU 51 determines that the pressed stop button is not released (when S173 is NO), the main CPU 51 repeats the process of S173 and waits until the pressed stop button is released. To do.

  On the other hand, when the main CPU 51 determines in S173 that the pressed stop button has been released (YES in S173), the main CPU 51 performs a reel stop command transmission process (S174). In this process, the main CPU 51 transmits a reel stop command to the sub control circuit 42. At this time, the data structure of the reel stop command to be transmitted is the same as that of the reel stop command transmitted in S167. However, the ON edge / OFF edge information included in the reel stop command transmitted in S174 is different from the ON edge / OFF edge information included in the reel stop command transmitted in S167.

  Next, the main CPU 51 determines whether or not the stop button non-operation counter is “0” (S175). In S175, when the main CPU 51 determines that the non-operating counter is not “0” (when S175 is NO), the main CPU 51 performs a pull-in priority storage process (S176). Thereafter, the main CPU 51 returns the process to S161 and repeats the processes after S161.

  On the other hand, when the main CPU 51 determines that the inoperative counter is “0” in S175 (when S175 is YES), the main CPU 51 ends the reel stop control process, and the process proceeds to the main flow (FIG. 52). (Refer to S14).

[RT control processing]
Next, the RT control process performed in S17 in the main flow (see FIG. 52) will be described with reference to FIG. In the present embodiment, the RT control process described below is executed by the main control circuit 41.

  First, the main CPU 51 refers to the RT transition table (see FIG. 16) to check RT game state transition conditions that can be established in the transition (current) RT game state (S281).

  Next, the main CPU 51 determines whether or not the RT gaming state transition condition is satisfied (S282). In S282, when the main CPU 51 determines that the RT gaming state transition condition is not satisfied (when S282 is NO), the main CPU 51 performs the process of S284 described later.

  On the other hand, when the main CPU 51 determines in S282 that the RT gaming state transition condition is satisfied (when S282 is YES), the main CPU 51 refers to the RT transition table (see FIG. 16) and transitions. Based on the condition, the RT game state flag of the transfer destination is set to a predetermined bit of the game state flag storage area (see FIG. 27), and the game state flag storage area is updated (S283).

  Next, the main CPU 51 performs display command transmission processing (S284). Specifically, the main CPU 51 transmits a display command to the sub control circuit 42. The display command includes parameters that specify a display combination, a payout number, and the like. Then, after the process of S284, the main CPU 51 ends the RT control process and moves the process to S18 of the main flow (see FIG. 52).

[Game control processing at the end of the game]
Next, the game end effect control process performed in S18 in the main flow (see FIG. 52) will be described. Here, the main CPU 51 refers to the output condition table (see FIG. 24), outputs a jackpot signal, sets the value of the output counter according to the gaming state, the content of the game lock, etc., and outputs the jackpot signal. Is turned on and the jackpot signal or the like is transmitted to the hall computer or the calling device 100 (see FIG. 11).

  In the present embodiment, for example, when “ART” is not won, such as when a recommended stop operation is not performed, even if the RT2 gaming state is erroneously entered, the jackpot signal is immediately transmitted to the hall computer or the calling device. 100 (see FIG. 11) can be prevented from being transmitted.

[Bonus end check process]
Next, with reference to FIG. 59, the bonus end check process performed in S20 in the main flow (see FIG. 52) will be described.

  First, the main CPU 51 determines whether or not “BB” (“BB1” to “BB3”) is in operation with reference to the gaming state flag storage area (see FIG. 27) (S321). In S321, when the main CPU 51 determines that “BB” is not in operation (when S321 is NO), the main CPU 51 ends the bonus end check process, and the process proceeds to S21 of the main flow (see FIG. 52). Move to.

  On the other hand, when the main CPU 51 determines that “BB” is operating in S321 (when S321 is YES), the main CPU 51 determines whether or not the value of the bonus end number counter is less than “0”. Is discriminated (S322).

  In S322, when the main CPU 51 determines that the value of the bonus end number counter is less than “0” (in the case of YES determination in S322), the main CPU 51 performs a bonus end time process (S323). In this process, the main CPU 51 clears the bonus end number counter and turns off the gaming state flag (BB gaming state flag) corresponding to “BB” in operation. If the value of the bonus end number counter is less than “0”, it means that the number of medals paid out exceeds 263 (BB1), 60 (BB2), or 14 (BB3) during the BB gaming state. To do.

  Next, the main CPU 51 performs a bonus end command transmission process (S324). In this process, the main CPU 51 transmits a bonus end command to the sub-control circuit 42. The bonus end command includes information indicating that the bonus game has ended.

  Next, the main CPU 51 performs an initialization process at the end of the bonus (S325). Then, after the process of S325, the main CPU 51 ends the bonus end check process, and moves the process to S21 of the main flow (see FIG. 52).

  On the other hand, when the main CPU 51 determines in S322 that the value of the bonus end number counter is not less than “0” (when S322 is NO), the main CPU 51 determines the respective values of the winning number counter and the possible game number counter. Update (S326). The value of the winning count counter is decremented by “1” when a small role (a medal payout) is displayed, and the value of the possible number of games counter is “1” for one game regardless of the stop symbol. Subtracted.

  Next, the main CPU 51 determines whether or not the value of the winning number counter or the value of the possible game number counter is “0” (S327). In S327, when the main CPU 51 determines that the value of the winning number counter or the value of the game possible number counter is not “0” (when S327 is NO), the main CPU 51 ends the bonus end check process. Then, the process proceeds to S21 of the main flow (see FIG. 52).

  On the other hand, when the main CPU 51 determines in S327 that the value of the winning number counter or the value of the possible game number counter is “0” (when S327 is YES), the main CPU 51 performs processing at the end of RB. (S328). Specifically, processing such as turning off the gaming state flag (RB gaming state flag) corresponding to “RB”, clearing the winning possible number counter and the gaming possible number counter, and the like are performed. Thereafter, the main CPU 51 ends the bonus end check process, and moves the process to S21 of the main flow (see FIG. 52).

[Bonus activation check process]
Next, with reference to FIG. 60, the bonus operation check process performed in S21 in the main flow (see FIG. 52) will be described.

  First, the main CPU 51 determines whether or not “BB” (“BB1” to “BB3”) is in operation (S331). In S331, when the main CPU 51 determines that “BB” is not in operation (when S331 is NO), the main CPU 51 performs the process of S334 described later.

  On the other hand, when the main CPU 51 determines in S331 that “BB” is in operation (in the case where S331 is YES), the main CPU 51 determines whether or not “RB” is in operation (S332). ). In S332, when the main CPU 51 determines that “RB” is in operation (in the case where S332 is YES), the main CPU 51 ends the bonus operation check process and performs the process in the main flow (see FIG. 52). Move to S2.

  On the other hand, when the main CPU 51 determines that “RB” is not in operation in S332 (when S332 is NO), the main CPU 51 performs RB operation processing based on the bonus operation table (see FIG. 15). (S333). Then, after the process of S333, the main CPU 51 ends the bonus operation check process, and moves the process to S2 of the main flow (see FIG. 52).

  If S331 is NO, the main CPU 51 determines whether or not the bonus game is a win (S334). In S334, when the main CPU 51 determines that the bonus game is not a prize (when S334 is NO), the main CPU 51 performs a process of S338 described later.

  On the other hand, when the main CPU 51 determines in S334 that the bonus game is a win (when S334 is YES), the main CPU 51 determines the winning bonus game based on the bonus operation time table (see FIG. 15). A corresponding bonus activation process is performed (S335). In this embodiment, in this process, the main CPU 51 refers to the bonus operating time table (see FIG. 15), sets “1” to the corresponding bit in the gaming state flag storage area (see FIG. 27), The value of the bonus end number counter is set to a predetermined value (“263” for “BB1”, “60” for “BB2”, “14” for “BB3”). Furthermore, in this process, the process at the time of RB operation demonstrated by said S333 is also performed.

  Next, the main CPU 51 clears the value of the carryover combination storage area (S336). Next, the main CPU 51 performs a bonus start command transmission process (S337). In this process, the main CPU 51 transmits a bonus start command to the sub-control circuit 42. The bonus start command includes information indicating that the bonus game has started. Then, after S337, the main CPU 51 ends the bonus operation check process, and moves the process to S2 of the main flow (see FIG. 52).

  When S334 is NO, the main CPU 51 determines whether or not the winning combination related to replaying is a win (S338). In S338, when the main CPU 51 determines that the role related to replay is not winning (when S338 is NO), the main CPU 51 ends the bonus operation check process, and the process of the main flow (see FIG. 52). Move to S2.

  On the other hand, when the main CPU 51 determines in S338 that the winning combination related to replaying is a win (when S338 is YES), the main CPU 51 requests automatic insertion of medals (S339). That is, the main CPU 51 copies the insertion number counter to the automatic insertion number counter. After the process of S339, the main CPU 51 ends the bonus operation check process, and moves the process to S2 of the main flow (see FIG. 52).

[Interrupt processing under the control of the main CPU (1.1172 msec)]
Next, with reference to FIG. 61, an interrupt process performed at regular intervals (every 1.1172 msec) under the control of a timer (not shown) built in the main CPU 51 will be described.

  First, the main CPU 51 saves the register (S341). Next, the main CPU 51 performs an input port check process (S342). In this process, signals input from various switches such as the stop switch 17S are checked.

  Next, the main CPU 51 performs a timer update process (S343). In this process, for example, the main CPU 51 performs a process of subtracting the value of the lock timer for each interrupt process. Next, the main CPU 51 performs communication data transmission processing (S344). In this processing, various commands are mainly transmitted to the main control circuit 41 and the sub control circuit 42 as appropriate.

  Next, the main CPU 51 performs a reel control process (S345). In this process, the main CPU 51 starts rotation of the left reel 3L, the middle reel 3C, and the right reel 3R when the start of rotation of all the reels is requested, and thereafter, each reel rotates at a constant speed. The three stepping motors 61L, 61C, 61R are driven and controlled. When the number of sliding symbols is determined, the main CPU 51 updates the symbol counter of the corresponding reel by the number of sliding symbols. Then, the main CPU 51 waits for the updated symbol counter to match the value corresponding to the scheduled stop position (the symbol at the scheduled stop position reaches the area on the active line (winning determination line) of the display window). The corresponding stepping motor is driven and controlled so that the rotation of the corresponding reel is decelerated and stopped. Further, in the present embodiment, in the process of S345, not only the above-described normal acceleration process, constant speed process and stop process, but also a reel effect pattern is set when the reel effect pattern is set during the acceleration process. Reel effect (reel action) and lock control processing are also performed.

  Next, the main CPU 51 performs a lamp and 7-segment driving process (S346). In this process, the main CPU 51 controls the 7-segment display 6 to display the number of payouts and the number of credits. Next, the main CPU 51 performs a register restoration process (S347). After that, the main CPU 51 ends the interrupt process.

<Description of operation of sub-control circuit>
Next, the contents of various processes (threads) executed by the sub CPU 81 of the sub control circuit 42 using a program will be described with reference to FIGS.

  The sub CPU 81 of the sub control circuit 42 executes an effect corresponding to the event as the event (trigger) transitions in the effect sequence. The contents of the effects executed at each event, the image data to be used, and the like are stored in association with the effect sequence data 204a and the effect data 204b of the actual machine data 204 described above, and are mounted on the gaming machine 1 in ROM.

  For example, as described above, when “9” is determined as the “production number for development effect 1” (see FIG. 42), “Bocco-Weak-Win” is determined as the “effect name”. "Lever ON: Confrontation-Bocco, 1on: Weak avoidance-Bocco, 3on: Don't Bocco, 3off: Win-Bocco, Next BET: Go to WIN screen".

  In the case of such an effect, in the effect sequence data 204a of the actual machine data 204, an effect corresponding to the trigger (Lev) is “anti-bocco” (corresponding to the effect content in the case of the “lever ON”), trigger ( 1st) as an effect corresponding to “Weak avoidance-Bocco” (corresponding to the effect in the case of “1on” above), and “Nodome Bocco” (corresponding to an effect in the case of “3on” as an effect corresponding to the trigger (3rdOn) ), “Win-Bocco” (corresponding to the effect in the case of “3off”) as an effect corresponding to the trigger (3rdOff), “To WIN screen” (the above “Next BET” as the effect corresponding to the trigger (Bet)) On the timeline of the corresponding trigger (while managing the layers as necessary) De or call sign is defined.

  Further, the production data 204b of the actual machine data 204 stores image data and sound data used for executing the above-described production, and these production data are associated with nodes and call signs.

[Main board communication thread]
First, the main board communication thread performed by the sub CPU 81 will be described with reference to FIG. Although not shown, the main board communication thread is not shown in the figure, but a certain number (for example, 8 bytes or less) in the interrupt process corresponding to the reception interrupt generated by the sub control circuit 42 receiving the serial communication data transmitted by the main control circuit 41. By receiving data of 16 bytes, a request for generating a main board communication thread is made in the interrupt process, and the main board communication thread is executed.

  First, the sub CPU 81 checks whether or not a valid command has been received from the main control circuit 41 (S901). If it is determined that a valid command has not been received, the main board communication thread is terminated. If it is determined that a valid command has been received, the sub CPU 81 checks whether or not the received command is a medal insertion command (S902).

  If the received command is a medal insertion command, a medal insertion command reception process is performed (S903). If the received command is not a medal insertion command, the sub CPU 81 checks whether or not the received command is a start command (S904).

  If the received command is a start command, a start command reception process is performed (S905). If the received command is not a start command, the sub CPU 81 checks whether or not the received command is a reel rotation start command (S906).

  If the received command is a reel rotation start command, a reel rotation start command reception process is performed (S907). If the received command is not a reel rotation start command, the sub CPU 81 checks whether or not the received command is a reel stop command (S908).

  If the received command is a reel stop command, a reel stop command reception process is performed (S909). If the received command is not a reel stop command, the sub CPU 81 checks whether or not the received command is a display command (S910).

  If the received command is a display command, a display command reception process is performed (S911). If the received command is not a display command, the sub CPU 81 performs other command reception processing (S912). Further, the sub CPU 81 terminates the main board communication thread after performing a display command reception process and other command reception processes.

[Process when receiving medal insertion command]
Next, with reference to FIG. 63, the medal insertion command reception process performed in S903 in the main board communication thread flowchart (see FIG. 62) will be described. In this embodiment, the medal insertion command reception process described below is executed by the sub control circuit 42.

  First, the sub CPU 81 stores the effect sequence data related to the corresponding event (trigger) in the effect sequence storage area in response to the event of receiving the medal insertion command (S921). In this process, for example, it is determined that a trigger (Bet) has occurred in response to the reception of a medal insertion command, and the corresponding trigger (Bet) is generated from the effect sequence data 204a of the actual machine data 204 that has already been read. Such effect sequence data is acquired and stored in the storage area. The stored effect sequence data is stored, for example, in a structure according to the data structure shown in FIG. 5 (the effect pattern and the trigger are specified in this situation). In this case, presentation sequence data related to the trigger (3rdOff) previously stored may be overwritten.

  Next, the sub CPU 81 checks whether or not there is an effect to be executed for the stored effect sequence data with respect to the determined effect content (S922). In this process, for example, a determination is made as to whether or not a node associated with the trigger (Bet) of the corresponding effect pattern exists in the stored effect sequence data. When there is an effect to be executed, an effect registration process is performed (S923). When there is no effect to be executed, or when the effect registration process is terminated, the medal insertion command reception process is terminated.

  In S922, when the effect to be executed is specified to continue the effect in the immediately preceding event (for example, the effect included in the piece indicated by the symbol “⇒” as shown in FIG. 4). Since the effect at the event immediately before is executed, there is no effect to be newly executed, and the effect registration process is not performed. This process is the same for other processes that check the presence of an effect to be executed (described later).

[Production registration process]
Next, with reference to FIG. 64, the effect registration process performed in S923 in the flowchart (see FIG. 63) of the medal insertion command reception process will be described. In the present embodiment, the effect registration process described below is executed by the sub-control circuit 42.

  First, based on the node associated with the trigger of the corresponding production pattern, the sub CPU 81 produces the production data necessary for the production to be executed (for example, video data associated with the node) from the production data 204b of the actual machine data 204. Sound data, LED data, accessory data, etc.).

  Next, the sub CPU 81 registers moving image data based on the acquired effect data (S932). Next, the sub CPU 81 registers sound data (S933). Next, the sub CPU 81 registers LED data (including data for turning on / off the lamp) for controlling the turning on / off of the LED (S934). Next, the sub CPU 81 registers the object data for controlling the movement of the object (S935). After S935, the sub CPU 81 ends the effect registration process.

  In the effect registration process, various data to be registered is stored in, for example, a common area (global area) assigned to the sub RAM 83 of the sub control circuit 42.

[Start command reception processing]
Next, with reference to FIG. 65, the start command reception process performed in S905 in the main board communication thread flowchart (see FIG. 62) will be described. In this embodiment, the start command reception process described below is executed by the sub-control circuit 42.

  First, the sub CPU 81 performs an effect lottery process based on the internal winning combination, the sub game state, the main game state, and the like (S941). In this process, the sub CPU 81 extracts the effect random number, determines the effect number by lottery based on the internal winning combination and the like and registers it. Here, the production number is data for designating the production content to be executed this time, and corresponds to one production pattern.

  In the effect lottery process, the lottery according to the main game state (RT game state, etc.), the contents of the small role / replay data pointer and the sub game state (for example, the chance zone (CZ) or the ART sub game state). Processing is performed, and an effect pattern is determined according to the lottery results and the like, but here, detailed description is omitted (the same applies to re-effect lottery processing described later).

  Next, the sub CPU 81 acquires the production sequence data 204a of the actual machine data 204 based on the production pattern of the production determined by lottery, and responds to the storage area of the production sequence according to the event of receiving the start command. Production sequence data related to the event (trigger) to be performed is stored (S942). In this process, for example, it is determined that a trigger (Lev) has occurred in response to reception of a start command, and the production sequence data related to the corresponding trigger (Lev) is obtained from the production sequence data 204a of the actual machine data 204 that has been read. Is stored in the storage area. The stored effect sequence data is stored, for example, in a structure according to the data structure shown in FIG. 5 (the effect pattern and the trigger are specified in this situation).

  Next, the sub CPU 81 checks whether or not there is an effect to be executed for the stored effect sequence data with respect to the determined effect content (S943). In this process, for example, it is determined whether or not there is a node associated with the trigger (Lev) of the corresponding effect pattern in the stored effect sequence data. If there is an effect to be executed, an effect registration process is performed (S944). When there is no effect to be executed or when the effect registration process is terminated, the start command reception process is terminated.

[Reel rotation start command reception processing]
Next, with reference to FIG. 66, the reel rotation start command reception process performed in S907 in the main board communication thread flowchart (see FIG. 62) will be described. In this embodiment, the reel rotation start command reception process described below is executed by the sub-control circuit 42.

  First, in response to the event of receiving the reel rotation start command, the sub CPU 81 stores the effect sequence data related to the corresponding event (trigger) in the effect sequence storage area (S951). In this process, for example, in response to reception of the reel rotation start command, it is determined that a trigger (RStt) has occurred, and the corresponding trigger (RStt) is determined from the already-read production sequence data 204a of the actual machine data 204. Effect sequence data is acquired and stored in the storage area. The stored effect sequence data is stored, for example, in a structure according to the data structure shown in FIG. 5 (the effect pattern and the trigger are specified in this situation). In this case, presentation sequence data related to the trigger (Lev) previously stored may be overwritten.

  Next, the sub CPU 81 checks whether or not there is an effect to be executed for the stored effect sequence data with respect to the determined effect content (S952). This process is performed, for example, to determine whether or not there is a node associated with the trigger (RStt) of the corresponding effect pattern in the stored effect sequence data. If there is an effect to be executed, an effect registration process is performed (S953). When there is no effect to be executed, or when the effect registration process is terminated, the reel rotation start command reception process is terminated.

[Reel stop command reception processing]
Next, with reference to FIG. 67, the reel stop command reception process performed in S909 in the main board communication thread flowchart (see FIG. 62) will be described. In the present embodiment, the reel stop command reception process described below is executed by the sub-control circuit 42.

  First, the sub CPU 81 checks whether or not it is necessary to lottery again the contents of the effect to be executed (S961). When it is necessary to lottery the contents of the effect to be executed, the effect lottery process is performed again based on the internal winning combination, the sub game state, and the main game state (S962). In this process, the sub CPU 81 extracts a random number for production, determines and registers the production number by lottery according to the internal winning combination, the type of the operation stop button, and the like. Here, the production number is data for designating the production content to be executed this time, and corresponds to one production pattern.

  Next, the sub CPU 81 checks whether or not there is a change in the content of the effect to be executed by re-lotting (S963). When there is a change in the content of the effect to be executed, the sub CPU 81 acquires the effect sequence data 204a of the actual machine data 204 based on the effect pattern of the effect determined by lottery, and receives the reel stop command. In response, the effect sequence data related to the corresponding event (trigger) is stored in the effect sequence storage area (S964). In this process, for example, it is determined that a trigger (1st, 2nd, or 3rdOn) has been generated in response to reception of a reel stop command, and the corresponding trigger (1st (2nd or 3rdOn) effect sequence data is acquired and stored in the storage area. The stored effect sequence data is stored, for example, in a structure according to the data structure shown in FIG. 5 (the effect pattern and the trigger are specified in this situation).

  If it is determined in S961 that it is not necessary to lottery the content of the effect to be executed again, if it is determined in S963 that there is no change in the content of the effect to be executed, and about the event of the effect sequence in S964 When the setting is completed, the sub CPU 81 stores the effect sequence data related to the corresponding event (trigger) in the effect sequence storage area in response to the reception of the reel stop command (S965). This process corresponds to, for example, determining that a trigger (1st, 2nd, or 3rdOn) has occurred in response to the reception of the reel stop command, and from the production sequence data 204a of the actual machine data 204 that has already been read. The effect sequence data relating to the trigger (1st, 2nd, or 3rdOn) is acquired and stored in the storage area. The stored effect sequence data is stored, for example, in a structure according to the data structure shown in FIG. 5 (the effect pattern and the trigger are specified in this situation). In this case, the effect sequence data related to the trigger (for example, RStt, 1st, 2nd) previously stored may be overwritten.

  Next, the sub CPU 81 checks whether or not there is an effect to be executed for the stored effect sequence data with respect to the determined effect content (S966). In this process, for example, it is determined whether or not a node associated with the trigger (1st, 2nd, or 3rdOn) of the corresponding effect pattern exists in the stored effect sequence data. If there is an effect to be executed, an effect registration process is performed (S967). When there is no effect to be executed, or when the effect registration process is terminated, the reel stop command reception process is terminated.

[Process when receiving display command]
Next, with reference to FIG. 68, the display command reception process performed in S911 in the flowchart of the main board communication thread (see FIG. 62) will be described. In the present embodiment, the display command reception processing described below is executed by the sub-control circuit 42.

  First, the sub CPU 81 checks whether or not it is necessary to lottery again the contents of the effect to be executed in a state where all the reels are stopped (S971). When it is necessary to lottery the contents of the effect to be executed, the effect lottery process is performed again based on the internal winning combination, the sub game state, and the main game state (S972). In this process, the sub CPU 81 extracts a random number for production, and determines and registers the production number by lottery according to the internal winning combination or display combination. Here, the production number is data for designating the production content to be executed this time, and corresponds to one production pattern.

  Next, the sub CPU 81 checks whether or not there is a change in the content of the effect to be executed by re-lotting (S973). When there is a change in the content of the effect to be executed, the sub CPU 81 acquires the effect sequence data 204a of the actual machine data 204 based on the effect effect pattern determined by lottery, and responds to the event of receiving the display command. Then, the effect sequence data related to the corresponding event (trigger) is stored in the effect sequence data storage area (S974). In this process, for example, it is determined that a trigger (3rdOff) has occurred in response to reception of a display command, and the production sequence data related to the corresponding trigger (3rdOff) is obtained from the production sequence data 204a of the read actual machine data 204. Is stored in the storage area. The stored effect sequence data is stored, for example, in a structure according to the data structure shown in FIG. 5 (the effect pattern and the trigger are specified in this situation).

  If it is determined in S971 that it is not necessary to lottery the contents of the effect to be executed again, if it is determined in S973 that there is no change in the contents of the effect to be executed, and about the event of the effect sequence in S974 When the setting is finished, the sub CPU 81 stores the production sequence data related to the corresponding event (trigger) in the production sequence storage area in response to the event of receiving the display command (S975). For example, this process determines that a trigger (3rdOff) has occurred in response to reception of a display command, and relates to the corresponding trigger (3rdOff) from the production sequence data 204a of the actual machine data 204 that has already been read. The effect sequence data is acquired and stored in the storage area. The stored effect sequence data is stored, for example, in a structure according to the data structure shown in FIG. 5 (the effect pattern and the trigger are specified in this situation). In this case, presentation sequence data related to a trigger (for example, 3rdOn) previously stored may be overwritten.

  Next, the sub CPU 81 checks whether or not there is an effect to be executed for the stored effect sequence data with respect to the determined effect content (S976). This process is performed, for example, for determining whether or not there is a node associated with the trigger (3rdOff) of the corresponding effect pattern in the stored effect sequence data. If there is an effect to be executed, an effect registration process is performed (S977). When there is no effect to be executed, or when the effect registration process is terminated, the display command reception process is terminated.

[Drawing thread]
Next, a drawing thread performed by the sub CPU 81 will be described with reference to FIG. Note that the drawing thread issues a request to generate its own drawing thread at the end of the thread when all the processes are completed. By performing generation time designation (for example, 33 msec) when a drawing thread generation request is made, the drawing thread is executed at a constant cycle.

  First, the sub CPU 81 checks whether or not a call sign exists in the timeline (S981). If there is a call sign, the call sign is registered (S982). Further, it is checked whether or not the call sign is for performing drawing processing (S983).

  If the call sign is to perform drawing processing, drawing processing is performed based on the call sign (S984). For example, when the call sign is associated with a program, the drawing process is performed by the program, and the production sequence data 204a of the actual machine data 204 is acquired and used as necessary. Although only the drawing thread will be described here, processing related to sound processing, accessory movement control, and the like are similarly performed according to the call sign. Thereafter, the sub CPU 81 updates the timeline (in units of frames) (S985).

  If it is determined in S981 that the call sign does not exist, if it is determined in S983 that the call sign does not perform the drawing process, and if the timeline is updated in S985, the effect registration process is performed. A check is made as to whether or not there is any registered drawing data (based on designation by the node) (S986). If it is determined that there is registered drawing data, the sub CPU 81 acquires the registered drawing data, and sets the drawing data in the corresponding video processing area according to the type of drawing processing (S987). ).

  Next, the sub CPU 81 executes 2D processing (S988), 3D processing (S989), and moving image processing (S990) according to the drawing data. If the sub CPU 81 determines in S986 that the registered drawing data does not exist, or if the moving image processing is executed in S990, the sub CPU 81 ends the drawing thread.

  By such a drawing thread, execution of processing based on call sign and execution of drawing processing based on nodes defined by each event (trigger) (considering layers) are determined for each production pattern for each frame. As a result, in the liquid crystal display device 11 of the gaming machine 1, image display over a plurality of frames is realized.

  In this example, the timeline is updated on a frame-by-frame basis to check whether or not a call sign exists. If a call sign exists, a drawing process corresponding to the call sign is performed. However, in the same way as the process related to the node, the rendering data used for the rendering process corresponding to the call sign is registered by the above-described effect registration process, and if the rendering data exists, the process corresponding to the rendering data ( For example, it may be configured to perform 2D processing or 3D processing. If the call sign is associated with a program that performs sound data output control, LED turn-off / light-on control, accessory movement control, etc., the data used for the control is registered in the effect registration process. However, various control processes can be performed based on the registered data.

In addition, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide a method for manufacturing a gaming machine having the following configuration, and a gaming machine.
A manufacturing method of a gaming machine (for example, gaming machine 1, 300) according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention is as follows.
Insertion operation detection means (for example, medal acceptance / start executed by the main CPU 51) for detecting an insertion operation of a game medium (for example, a medal or a coin) (for example, an operation in which a player inserts a medal into the medal slot 13) Check processing (see FIG. 52)),
Start operation detecting means (for example, medal acceptance / start check executed by the main CPU 51) for detecting a start operation by the player (for example, operation of a start lever by the player) based on detection of the insertion operation by the insertion operation detecting means. Processing (see FIG. 52)),
Internal winning combination determining means (for example, main CPU 51) for determining an internal winning combination with a predetermined probability based on detection of the start operation by the start operation detecting means (for example, determination by lottery performed with reference to an internal lottery table). Internal lottery processing (see FIG. 52) executed by
An effect determining means for determining an effect when the start operation is detected by the start operation detecting means (for example, an effect lottery process (see FIG. 65, etc.) executed by the sub CPU 81);
An effect execution means for executing the effect determined by the effect determination means (for example, a drawing thread (see FIG. 69) executed by the sub CPU 81),
Generating effect sequence data (for example, effect sequence data 204a (see FIG. 1)) that defines the contents of the effect;
Storing the effect sequence data in a predetermined storage means (for example, a ROM incorporated in the gaming machine 1),
The effect executing means executes the effect based on the effect sequence data stored in the storage means,
The effect sequence data is configured to be able to execute an effect related to the effect even in the computer by being read into a computer (for example, development PC 200) other than the gaming machine.

  With this configuration of the present invention, it is possible to reduce the man-hours of the programmer for the work of creating table data and programs based on the production specifications and incorporating production data including production data and production video data into the gaming machine. It can be reduced, and the man-hour for confirming display / reproduction of the effect in the gaming machine can be reduced.

According to a fifth embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a method for manufacturing a gaming machine (for example, gaming machine 1, 300) in the fourth embodiment.
The effect sequence data defines the contents of the effect for each effect pattern (for example, patterns such as “Ptn1”, “Ptn2”, “Ptn3”, etc.), and the effect sequence data corresponding to each effect pattern is stored in the gaming machine. Associated with multiple triggers (eg, triggers such as “Lev”, “RStt”, “1st”),
The production sequence data associated with each trigger further includes production execution timing (for example, start timing and period specified by “InFrame” and “OutFrame”) and production data used for the production (for example, “Bind File”). Information (for example, information defined as a node on the timeline (see FIG. 4)) is specified.

A manufacturing method of a gaming machine (for example, gaming machine 1, 300) according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention is as follows.
The effect sequence data defines the contents of the effect for each effect pattern, and the effect sequence data corresponding to each effect pattern is associated with a plurality of triggers in the gaming machine,
The production sequence data associated with each trigger further includes an execution timing of the production and information for specifying a program for executing the production (for example, information defined as a call sign on the timeline (see FIG. 4)). Configured as follows.

A gaming machine (for example, gaming machine 1, 300) according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention,
An input operation detecting means for detecting an input operation of the game medium;
Start operation detecting means for detecting a start operation by the player based on detection of the input operation by the input operation detecting means;
An internal winning combination determining means for determining an internal winning combination with a predetermined probability based on the detection of the start operation by the start operation detecting means;
An effect determining means for determining an effect when a start operation is detected by the start operation detecting means,
Effect execution means for executing the effect determined by the effect determination means, and
The production execution means executes the production based on production sequence data defining the content of the production,
The effect sequence data is read by a computer other than the gaming machine (for example, development PC 200), and the effect related to the effect is also executed by the computer (for example, an effect image is displayed on the display device of the development PC 200). It can be displayed (see FIG. 2A).

1,300 ... gaming machine, 2 ... exterior body, 2a ... cabinet, 2b ... front door, 3L ... left reel, 3C ... middle reel, 3R ... right reel, 4 ... display window, 11 ... liquid crystal display device, 16 ... start lever, 17L ... left stop button, 17C ... middle stop button, 17R ... right stop button, 22L, 22R ..Character decoration part, 23L, 23R ... touch sensor, 41 ... main control circuit, 42 ... sub control circuit, 51 ... main CPU, 81 ... sub CPU, 200 ... development PC, 203 ... production definition file, 204 ... real machine data, 204a ... production sequence data, 204b ... production data

Claims (3)

Production determining means for determining production,
Storage means for storing production sequence data defining the content of the production;
An effect execution means for executing the effect determined by the effect determination means based on the effect sequence data, and a method for manufacturing a gaming machine,
Generating the production sequence data;
Storing the production sequence data fixedly in the storage means, and incorporating the production sequence data into the gaming machine,
The effect sequence data can be executed by the computer other than the gaming machine to execute the effect related to the effect in the computer.
The effect sequence data includes a plurality of first data that defines the contents of the effect according to a corresponding effect pattern,
Each of the first data includes second data that defines the contents of the effect, each associated with a plurality of triggers related to the progress of the game in the gaming machine,
The second data is
It is possible to include production data information for designating production data used for the production, and execution timing information for designating execution timing of the production,
It further has a display means for displaying an effect image,
The game machine characterized in that the execution timing information can include at least one of a start frame and an end frame when an image is rendered on the display means by executing an effect based on the effect data information. Manufacturing method.   The said execution timing information can contain the loop designation | designated information which designates whether execution of the production | presentation based on the said production data information is repeated on predetermined conditions, It is characterized by the above-mentioned. Manufacturing method of the game machine. Production determining means for determining production,
An effect executing means for executing the effect determined by the effect determining means, and a gaming machine comprising:
The production execution means executes the production based on production sequence data defining the content of the production,
The effect sequence data can be executed by the computer other than the gaming machine to execute the effect related to the effect in the computer.
The effect sequence data includes a plurality of first data that defines the contents of the effect according to a corresponding effect pattern,
Each of the first data includes second data that defines the contents of the effect, each associated with a plurality of triggers related to the progress of the game in the gaming machine,
The second data is
It is possible to include production data information for designating production data used for the production, and execution timing information for designating execution timing of the production,
It further has a display means for displaying an effect image,
The game machine characterized in that the execution timing information can include at least one of a start frame and an end frame when an image is rendered on the display means by executing an effect based on the effect data information. .

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