JP6600393B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine that plays a game by firing a game medium and pays out the game medium based on the fact that a payout condition is satisfied.

  As a gaming machine, a game medium such as a game ball is launched into the game area by the launching means, and when the game medium is won in a prize area such as a prize opening provided in the game area, a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out to the player. There is something to be done. Furthermore, variable display means (variable display device) capable of variably displaying the identification information (also referred to as “fluctuation” or “variation display”) is provided, and the display result of the variable display of the identification information on the variable display means is the specific display result. In some cases, the game can be controlled to a specific gaming state advantageous to the player.

  The specific game state means a state in which a predetermined game value is given and is advantageous for the player. Specifically, the specific game state is, for example, a state in which a special variable winning device is advantageous for a player who is likely to win a ball (a big hit game state), or a state in which a right to be advantageous for a player has occurred. This is a state in which a game value such as a state where the payout condition for the premium game medium is easily established is given.

  In such a gaming machine, there is one in which a full tank state is notified when it is detected that a storage unit capable of storing game media is in a full tank state (see, for example, Patent Document 1). The gaming machine described in Patent Document 1 is configured to delay the timing for starting notification of a full tank state when it is detected that the tank is full during a specific gaming state.

JP 2012-183264 A

  However, there is room for improvement in order to maintain and improve game entertainment while providing suitable error notification.

(Means 1) A gaming machine according to the present invention is a gaming machine that performs variable display and can be controlled to an advantageous state advantageous to a player, and stores storage information that stores information related to variable display as reserved storage; A hold display means for displaying a hold display in a predetermined display mode corresponding to each of the hold memories stored in the means, a determination means for determining whether to control to an advantageous state, and a determination result by the determination means Based on the variable display control means for controlling the variable display, the determination means for determining whether or not to be controlled in an advantageous state before the determination means, and the hold display based on the determination result by the determination means. A notice effect executing means for executing a notice effect for notifying the possibility of being controlled to an advantageous state by changing the display mode to a display mode different from the normal mode, and the display mode of the hold display being changed. The suggestion effect execution means for executing the suggestion effect and the payout condition (for example, that the game ball has won a prize at the first grand prize opening, the second big prize opening, the first starting prize opening 13, and the second starting prize opening 14) And the payout means for paying out the game medium based on the fact that the rental ball request has been made and the storage unit (for example, the surplus ball receiving tray 4) capable of storing the game medium is detected to be full. The second error based on the error relating to the first error notification control means for performing the first error notification control and the error relating to the payout means. Controlled by second error notification control means for performing notification control, and at least first error notification control means and second error notification control means, error notification is possible by changing the display mode of light emission display The display mode of the hold display includes a normal mode, a special mode, and a plurality of special modes, which can be changed from the normal mode to any of the special modes, and from the special mode. The suggestion effect execution means executes a first suggestion effect in which the display mode of the hold display changes after the effect and a second suggestion effect in which the display mode of the hold display does not change after the effect. are possible, hold display is come and are displayed in a special manner, it is capable of executing a second suggestion effect more frequently than when the display any pending are also displayed in the normal manner, by holding the display means When there is a hold display that is displayed in a display mode different from the normal mode among the displayed hold displays, any hold display is performed by the hold display means than when any of the hold displays are displayed in the normal mode. A ratio that is determined as a late timing as a timing for changing any of the displayed hold displays in the normal mode to a display mode different from the normal mode is high, and the error notification unit is controlled by the first error notification control unit If that is the executable error notification according to the first aspect, characterized in that if controlled by the second error notification control means is capable of executing error notification by the second aspect differs from the first embodiment . With such a configuration, it is possible to improve game entertainment while suitably performing error notification.

  (Means 1) A gaming machine according to the present invention is a gaming machine that performs variable display and can be controlled to an advantageous state advantageous to a player, and stores storage information that stores information related to variable display as reserved storage; A hold display means for displaying a hold display in a predetermined display mode corresponding to each of the hold memories stored in the means, a determination means for determining whether to control to an advantageous state, and a determination result by the determination means Based on the variable display control means for controlling the variable display, the determination means for determining whether or not to be controlled in an advantageous state before the determination means, and the hold display based on the determination result by the determination means. A notice effect executing means for executing a notice effect for notifying the possibility of being controlled to an advantageous state by changing the display mode to a display mode different from the normal mode, and the display mode of the hold display being changed. The suggestion effect execution means for executing the suggestion effect and the payout condition (for example, that the game ball has won a prize at the first grand prize opening, the second big prize opening, the first starting prize opening 13, and the second starting prize opening 14) And the payout means for paying out the game medium based on the fact that the rental ball request has been made and the storage unit (for example, the surplus ball receiving tray 4) capable of storing the game medium is detected to be full. The second error based on the error relating to the first error notification control means for performing the first error notification control and the error relating to the payout means. Controlled by second error notification control means for performing notification control, and at least first error notification control means and second error notification control means, error notification is possible by changing the display mode of light emission display The display mode of the hold display includes a normal mode, a special mode, and a plurality of special modes, which can be changed from the normal mode to any of the special modes, and from the special mode. The suggestion effect execution means executes a first suggestion effect in which the display mode of the hold display changes after the effect and a second suggestion effect in which the display mode of the hold display does not change after the effect. When the hold display is displayed in the special mode, the second suggestion effect can be executed more frequently than when the hold display is not displayed in the special mode. When controlled by the notification control means, error notification according to the first mode can be executed, and when controlled by the second error notification control means, error notification according to a second mode different from the first mode is performed. It is possible to go. With such a configuration, it is possible to improve game entertainment while suitably performing error notification.

  (Means 2) Lending stop means for stopping lending of game media based on the fact that means 1 is detected to be full (for example, the payout control microcomputer 370 generates an error in S75101 of the payout start waiting process) If the flag is 0 (when no full error has occurred), it may be configured to include a portion that does not execute the subsequent processing. According to such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the game medium from being jammed due to the lending operation.

  (Means 3) In the means 1 or 2, the first error notification control means and the second error notification control means respectively notify that an error state has occurred in the first error notification control and the second error notification control. (For example, when a full tank error occurs, the payout control microcomputer 370 executes steps S7714 and S760, so that the error display “6” is displayed on the error display LED 374, and the effect control microcomputer 100 operates in steps S659 to S659. The second abnormality notification LED 19b is controlled to be turned on by executing 660. When an unpaid-out number abnormality error occurs, the payout control microcomputer 370 executes S7714a to S7714c, S760 to display an error. The portion where “0” is displayed on the LED 374 for error display and the production system The first abnormality notification LED 19a is controlled to be in the lighting state by the microcomputer 100 executing S657 to 658), the notification performed as the first error notification control and the notification performed as the second error notification control, It may be configured to be performed using at least common notification means (for example, one light emitter for error notification that emits light in a different manner depending on the error type, or error display LED 374). According to such a configuration, it is possible to reduce the manufacturing cost by also using the notification means.

  (Means 4) In any one of the means 1 to 3, the start condition (for example, the number of reserved memories is not 0 and the variable display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol is not executed) And a variable display of a plurality of types of identification information that can be distinguished from each other based on the fact that the jackpot game has not been executed (for example, a variable display of the first special symbol, the second special symbol, and the production symbol) ), And when a specific display result (for example, jackpot symbol) is derived and displayed as a display result of variable display of identification information, the gaming machine controls to a specific gaming state (for example, jackpot gaming state) advantageous to the player A hold storage means (for example, a first hold storage buffer or the like) that stores variable display of identification information for which the start condition is not satisfied as a hold storage (for example, a first hold memory or a second hold memory) Two hold storage buffers), a hold display means (for example, a combined hold storage display section 18c) for displaying a hold display in a predetermined display mode corresponding to each of the hold memories stored in the hold storage means, and a start condition When the above is established, pre-determining means for determining whether or not the display result of the variable display of the identification information is set as the specific display result (for example, the part in which the game control microcomputer 560 executes S61, S62, and S73) The variable display control means (for example, the part where the production control microcomputer 100 executes S1813) that controls the variable display of the identification information based on the determination result by the prior determination means, and the determination of the prior determination means, Specific determination means for determining whether or not the display result of variable display of identification information based on the hold storage stored in the hold storage means is a specific display result For example, the display result of the variable display of the identification information based on the hold storage stored in the hold storage means based on the game control microcomputer 560 executes S1217 and S1228) and the determination result by the specific determination means. Changing the display of the hold display corresponding to the hold storage to a display form (for example, a special form, a first special form, or a second special form) different from the normal form to indicate that there is a possibility of a specific display result. A notice effect executing means for executing a notice effect (for example, a pre-read effect) to be notified in advance (for example, a portion in which the microcomputer 100 for effect control executes S1813 based on the determination result of the pre-read effect determining process (S671)); Suggestion effect execution means (for example, for effect control) that executes the suggestion effect suggesting that the display mode of the hold display changes. The microcomputer 100 includes a portion for executing S1813 based on the determination result of the pre-reading effect determination process (S671, S67110), and the notice effect executing means is usually included in the hold display displayed by the hold display means. Depending on whether or not there is a pending display displayed in a display mode different from the mode (for example, whether or not the pending display changing flag is set), the pending display is displayed by the pending display means at a different rate. Any one of the displays is changed to a display mode different from the normal mode (for example, the presentation control microcomputer 100 determines whether the determination display value is based on whether or not the pending display changing flag is set. Select the pre-reading effect execution determination table and the pre-reading effect pattern change timing determination table set at different rates. Based on the part for executing the pre-reading effect determination process (S671, S67104, S67108) for determining the presence / absence of execution of the pre-reading effect and the change timing when it is executed, and the determination result of the pre-reading effect determination process, A part for executing S1813. (See FIGS. 45 and 47 to 50). According to such a configuration, interest can be given to the display mode of the hold display when the notice effect is executed, and the interest of the notice effect can be enhanced.

  (Means 5) In any one of the means 1 to 4, the start condition (for example, when the number of reserved memories is not 0 and the variable display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol is not executed) And a variable display of a plurality of types of identification information that can be distinguished from each other based on the fact that the jackpot game has not been executed (for example, a variable display of the first special symbol, the second special symbol, and the production symbol) ), And when a specific display result (for example, jackpot symbol) is derived and displayed as a display result of variable display of identification information, the gaming machine controls to a specific gaming state (for example, jackpot gaming state) advantageous to the player A holding storage means (for example, a first holding storage buffer) capable of storing variable display of identification information for which the start condition is not satisfied as holding storage (for example, first holding storage or second holding storage). A second hold storage buffer), a hold display means for displaying the hold memory stored in the hold storage means as a hold display (for example, the combined hold storage display unit 18c), and identification based on the start condition being satisfied Predetermining means for determining whether or not the display result of variable display of information is a specific display result (for example, the part where the game control microcomputer 560 executes S61, S62, and S73), and before the determination of the predetermining means In addition, specific determination means for determining whether or not the display result of the variable display of the identification information based on the hold storage means stored in the hold storage means becomes the specific display result (for example, the game control microcomputer 560 performs S1217, S1228). The display mode of the hold display includes a normal mode, a special mode that is different from the normal mode, and the normal mode. And a special aspect that is different from the special aspect (for example, the first special aspect or the second special aspect), and the determination target of the specific determination unit at a different ratio according to the determination result of the specific determination unit The execution execution means (for example, the production control microcomputer 100 performs the pre-reading effect determination process (S671)) capable of executing the holding notice effect (for example, the pre-reading effect) that displays the hold display corresponding to the reserved storage in a special mode. Based on the determination result, further includes a portion for executing S1813), and the effect execution means specially displays the hold display at a plurality of timings (for example, start winning timing, arbitrary shift timing, other arbitrary timing, etc.). When the hold display is displayed in a special mode (for example, a production control microcomputer) 60 determines the final display mode as the first special mode or the second special mode using the final display mode determination table shown in FIG. 60A in S67106, and the prefetch effect pattern shown in FIG. 60B in S67107. When the pre-reading effect is determined to be executed using the second pre-reading effect pattern or the third pre-reading effect pattern using the determination table and S67111, S1813, etc. are executed), the identification information based on the hold memory corresponding to the hold display is variable. Until the display is started, the hold display is changed from the special mode to the special mode and displayed (for example, the production control microcomputer 100 determines the change timing in S67108 and executes S1813 or the like. 48 to 50 and FIG. 60). According to such a configuration, it is possible to change and display the hold display in a special mode at a plurality of timings, so that it is possible to give diversity to the timing to change the display mode of the hold display, When the on-hold display is displayed in a special mode, the on-screen display is changed from the special mode to the special mode and displayed, so that it is possible to improve the game entertainment.

It is the front view which looked at the pachinko game machine from the front. It is the rear view which looked at the gaming machine from the back. It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structural example of a game control board (main board). It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structural example of a payout control board. It is a block diagram showing an example of circuit configuration of an effect control board, a lamp driver board, and an audio output board. It is a flowchart which shows the main process which CPU in a main board | substrate performs. It is a flowchart which shows 2 ms timer interruption processing. It is explanatory drawing which shows the variation pattern of the production | presentation symbol prepared beforehand. It is explanatory drawing which shows each random number. It is explanatory drawing which shows a big hit determination table, a small hit determination table, and a big hit type determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows a fluctuation pattern determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the content of an effect control command. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the content of the determination result designation command at the time of winning. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the program of a special symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows a starting port switch passage process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of a pending | holding buffer. It is a flowchart which shows the effect process at the time of winning. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol normal process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol normal process. It is a flowchart which shows a fluctuation pattern setting process. It is a flowchart which shows a display result designation | designated command transmission process. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol change process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol stop process. It is a flowchart which shows the big winning opening opening pre-processing. It is a flowchart which shows a big winning opening open process. It is a flowchart which shows a big winning opening open process. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit end process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a prize ball process. It is a flowchart which shows a prize ball command output counter addition process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a frame state output process. It is a flowchart which shows the main process which CPU for payout control performs. It is a flowchart which shows a timer interruption process. It is a flowchart which shows a main control communication process. It is a flowchart which shows a main control command reception process. It is a flowchart which shows payout control processing. It is a flowchart which shows the payout start waiting process. It is a flowchart which shows an error process. It is a flowchart which shows an error process. It is a flowchart which shows production control main processing. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of a command reception buffer. It is a flowchart which shows a command analysis process. It is a flowchart which shows a command analysis process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of the area | region which preserve | saves the determination result at the time of winning a prize. It is a flowchart which shows prefetch effect determination processing. It is explanatory drawing which shows the prefetch effect execution determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows the last display mode determination table and the prefetch effect pattern determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows a 1st prefetch effect change timing determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows a 2nd prefetch effect change timing determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows a 2nd prefetch effect change timing determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows a 3rd prefetch effect change timing determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows a suggestion effect mode determination table. It is a flowchart which shows production control process processing. It is a flowchart which shows a fluctuation pattern command reception waiting process. It is a flowchart which shows an effect design fluctuation start process. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the stop symbol of an effect symbol. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of process data. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example of a prefetch effect. It is a flowchart which shows an effect design fluctuation start process. It is explanatory drawing which shows a suggestion effect mode determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows the last display mode determination table and the prefetch effect pattern determination table.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. First, the overall configuration of a pachinko gaming machine 1 that is an example of a gaming machine will be described. FIG. 1 is a front view of the pachinko gaming machine 1 as seen from the front. The pachinko gaming machine 1 includes an outer frame (not shown) formed in a vertically long rectangular shape and a game frame attached to the inside of the outer frame so as to be openable and closable. Further, the pachinko gaming machine 1 has a glass door frame 2 formed in a frame shape that is provided in the game frame so as to be opened and closed. The game frame includes a front frame (not shown) that can be opened and closed with respect to the outer frame, a mechanism plate (not shown) to which mechanism parts and the like are attached, and various parts (games to be described later) attached to them. A structure including the board 6). On the lower surface of the glass door frame 2 is a hitting ball supply tray (upper plate) 3. Under the hitting ball supply tray 3, there are provided an extra ball receiving tray 4 for storing game balls that cannot be accommodated in the hitting ball supply tray 3 and a hitting operation handle (operation knob) 5 for firing the hitting ball. A game board 6 is detachably attached to the back surface of the glass door frame 2. The game board 6 is a structure including a plate-like body constituting the game board 6 and various components attached to the plate-like body. In addition, a game area 7 is formed on the front surface of the game board 6 in which a game ball that has been struck can flow down.

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

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

  In this embodiment, the type of the first special symbol and the type of the second special symbol are the same (for example, both 0 to 9), but the types may be different. The first special symbol display 8a and the second special symbol display 8b may be configured to variably display, for example, a number (or a two-digit symbol) of 00 to 99, for example. Hereinafter, the first special symbol and the second special symbol may be collectively referred to as a special symbol, and the first special symbol indicator 8a and the second special symbol indicator 8b may be collectively referred to as a special symbol indicator. Note that the gaming machine may include only one special symbol display.

  For the special symbol variable display, the first start condition or the second start condition, which is the variable display execution condition, is satisfied (for example, the game ball has won the first start winning opening 13 or the second starting winning opening 14). After that, the variable display start condition (for example, the state in which the number of reserved memories is not 0, the state where the special symbol variable display is not executed, and the big hit game is not executed) is established. When the variable display time (fluctuation time) elapses, the display result (stop symbol) is derived and displayed. Note that winning means that a game ball has entered a predetermined area such as a winning opening. Deriving and displaying the display result is to finally stop and display a symbol (an example of identification information).

  A winning device having a first start winning port 13 is provided below the effect display device 9. The game ball won in the first start winning opening 13 is guided to the back of the game board 6 and detected by the first start opening switch 13a. A variable winning ball device 15 having a second starting winning port 14 through which a game ball can be won is provided below a winning device having a first starting winning port (first starting port) 13. The game ball that has won the second start winning opening (second start opening) 14 is guided to the back of the game board 6 and detected by the second start opening switch 14a. The variable winning ball device 15 is opened by a solenoid 16. When the variable winning ball device 15 is in the open state, the game ball can be awarded to the second starting winning port 14 (it is easier to start winning), which is advantageous for the player. In the state where the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is in the open state, it is easier for the game ball to win the second start winning opening 14 than the first starting winning opening 13. In addition, in a state where the variable winning ball device 15 is in the closed state, the game ball does not win the second start winning opening 14. In the state where the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is in the closed state, it may be configured that the winning is possible (that is, it is difficult for the gaming ball to win) although it is difficult to win a prize.

  Hereinafter, the first start winning opening 13 and the second start winning opening 14 may be collectively referred to as a start winning opening or a starting opening. In this embodiment, the variable winning ball apparatus 15 that opens and closes only the second start winning opening 14 is provided. However, any of the first starting winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14 is provided. Also, a variable winning ball apparatus that performs an opening / closing operation may be provided. When the variable winning ball device 15 is controlled to be in the open state, the game ball heading for the variable winning ball device 15 is very likely to win the second start winning port 14. The first start winning opening 13 is provided directly under the effect display device 9, but the interval between the lower end of the effect display device 9 and the first start winning opening 13 is further reduced, or the first start winning opening is set. It is also possible to arrange the nails densely around 13 so that the winning rate of the second starting winning port 14 is higher than that of the first starting winning port 13.

  Below the first special symbol display 8a, the number of valid winning balls that have entered the first start winning opening 13, that is, the first reserved memory number (the reserved memory is also referred to as the start memory or the start prize memory) is displayed 4. There is provided a first special symbol storage memory indicator 18a composed of two indicators (for example, LEDs). The first special symbol storage memory indicator 18a increases the number of indicators to be lit by 1 each time there is an effective start winning. Then, each time the variable display on the first special symbol display 8a is started, the number of indicators to be turned on is reduced by one. For example, this is realized by executing a display control process in a display control process (S22) of a timer interrupt process to be described later. Below the second special symbol display 8b is a second special symbol hold comprising four indicators (for example, LEDs) for displaying the number of effective winning balls that have entered the second start winning opening 14, that is, the second reserved memory number. A storage indicator 18b is provided. The second special symbol storage memory display 18b increases the number of indicators to be lit by 1 every time there is an effective start winning. Then, each time the variable display on the second special symbol display 8b is started, the number of indicators to be turned on is reduced by one.

  In addition, at the lower part of the display screen of the effect display device 9, there is provided a total pending storage display unit 18c for displaying the total number (total number of pending pending storage) that is the sum of the first reserved memory count and the second reserved memory count. ing. In this embodiment, on the total hold storage display unit 18c, the hold displays corresponding to the first hold memory and the second hold memory are displayed side by side in the order of winning in the first start winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14. The In addition, it may be displayed in a manner capable of recognizing whether it is the first reserved memory or the second reserved memory (for example, the first reserved memory is displayed in red and the second reserved memory is blue). May be displayed). Further, instead of the total reserved memory display unit 18c, a first reserved memory display unit that displays the first reserved memory number and a second reserved memory display unit that displays the second reserved memory number may be provided. Good.

  The effect display device 9 is for decoration (effect) during the variable display time of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display 8a and during the variable display time of the second special symbol on the second special symbol display 8b. The display of the effect symbol as a symbol for “for” is variably displayed. The variable display of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display 8a and the variable display of the effect symbol on the effect display device 9 are synchronized. Further, the variable display of the second special symbol on the second special symbol display 8b and the variable display of the effect symbol on the effect display device 9 are synchronized. Synchronous means that the start time and end time of variable display are substantially the same (may be exactly the same) and the variable display period is substantially the same (may be exactly the same). Further, when the big hit symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b, the combination of effect symbols that recall the big hit is stopped and displayed on the effect display device 9.

  As shown in FIG. 1, a first special variable winning ball device 20a is provided below the variable winning ball device 15. The first special variable winning ball apparatus 20a includes an opening / closing plate, and a specific gaming state (when a specific display result (big hit symbol) is derived and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b) In the big hit game state), the open / close plate is controlled to be in the open state by the solenoid 21a, so that the first big prize opening serving as the winning area is in the open state. A game ball won in the first grand prize opening is detected by the first count switch 23a. Further, a second special variable winning ball device 20b is provided below the first special variable winning ball device 20a. The second special variable winning ball apparatus 20b includes an opening / closing plate, and the opening / closing plate is controlled to be opened by the solenoid 21b in a specific gaming state (big hit gaming state), so that the second big winning opening serving as a winning area is opened. become. A game ball won in the second grand prize opening is detected by the second count switch 23b. In this embodiment, in the specific gaming state (big hit gaming state), the first grand prize winning opening and the second big winning prize opening are controlled to be alternately opened. For example, when the grand prize opening is opened 15 times (15 rounds) in a specific gaming state, the first grand prize opening is controlled to be in the open state as the first round, and when the number of winnings reaches a predetermined number (or predetermined opening) While the time (for example, 29 seconds elapses), the first big prize opening is controlled to be in a closed state, and as the second round, the second big prize opening is controlled to be in an open state. Hereinafter, the first special variable winning ball apparatus 20a and the second special variable winning ball apparatus 20b may be collectively referred to as a special variable winning ball apparatus, and the first grand prize opening and the second big prize opening will be referred to as a big prize opening. Sometimes referred to generically.

  For example, if there is only one grand prize opening and the grand prize opening is controlled to be opened a predetermined number of times in a specific gaming state (big hit gaming state), the game ball going to the big prize opening will be a big prize. When the round is finished when the mouth is reached and the special winning opening is controlled to be closed, it is taken into the out opening 26 as it is. On the other hand, if the game is directed to the first grand prize opening if the two big prize winning openings are provided so as to be positioned above and below and are controlled to be opened alternately in a specific gaming state (big hit gaming state). Even if the first round ends when the ball reaches the first grand prize opening and the first big prize opening is controlled to be closed, the second big prize opening provided immediately below is opened as the second round. Since it is controlled by the state, there is a possibility of winning the second big prize opening. With this configuration, it is possible to reduce the number of game balls that are taken into the out port 26 without winning in the big winning port during the round of the specific gaming state (big hit gaming state). In this embodiment, the second special variable winning ball device 20b is provided immediately below the first special variable winning ball device 20a. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the first special variable winning ball device 20a is directed to the first special variable winning ball device 20a. The game ball only needs to be provided at a position where it is easy to win a prize when the first special variable winning ball apparatus 20a is in the closed state. For example, the game ball is arranged by a nail arrangement around the first special variable winning ball apparatus 20a. You may be provided in the position where it is easy to guide.

  A normal symbol display 10 is provided at the lower right side of the game board 6. The normal symbol display 10 variably displays a plurality of types of identification information (for example, “◯” and “x”) called normal symbols. When the game ball passes through the gate 32 and is detected by the gate switch 32a, the variable display of the normal symbol display 10 is started. In this embodiment, variable display is performed by alternately lighting the upper and lower lamps (the symbols can be visually recognized when turned on). For example, if the lower lamp is turned on at the end of the variable display, it is a hit. . When the stop symbol on the normal symbol display 10 is a predetermined symbol (winning symbol), the variable winning ball device 15 is opened for a predetermined number of times. That is, the state changes from an unfavorable state to the player to an advantageous state (a state in which a game ball can be won at the second start winning opening 14). In the vicinity of the normal symbol display 10, a normal symbol holding storage display 41 having four indicators (for example, LEDs) for displaying the number of winning balls that have passed through the gate 32 is provided. Each time a game ball passes to the gate 32, the normal symbol storage memory display 41 increases the number of indicators to be turned on by one. Then, each time the variable display on the normal symbol display 10 is started, the number of indicators that are lit is reduced by one. Further, in the probability variation state where the probability of being determined to be a big hit as compared to the normal state is high, the probability that the stop symbol in the normal symbol display 10 becomes a winning symbol is increased, and the variable winning ball apparatus 15 The opening time becomes longer and the number of opening times is increased. That is, the game ball is controlled to be in a high base state that is controlled so as to make it easier for the game ball to start and win (that is, the variable display execution conditions in the special symbol indicators 8a and 8b and the effect display device 9 are easily established). Transition. Further, in this embodiment, even in the short time state (the game state in which the special symbol variable display time is shortened), the opening time of the variable winning ball device 15 becomes long and the number of times of opening is increased.

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

  Moreover, you may transfer to a high base state by shifting to the normal symbol time short state where the fluctuation time (variable display period) of the normal symbol in the normal symbol display 10 is shortened. In the normal symbol time-short state, the variation time of the normal symbol is shortened, so that the frequency of starting the variation of the normal symbol increases, and as a result, the frequency of hitting the normal symbol increases. Therefore, when the frequency that the normal symbol is won increases, the frequency that the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is opened is increased, and the start winning state is easily set (high base state). Also, by shifting to the short time state where the variation time of special symbols and production symbols is shortened, the variation time of special symbols and production symbols is shortened, so it is easy for effective start winnings to occur and jackpot games are played The possibility increases. In addition, by shifting to all the states shown above (open extended state, normal symbol probability changing state, normal symbol short time state and special symbol short time state), it will be easier to start winning (shift to high base state). May be. In addition, it becomes easier to win a start by shifting to any one of the above states (open extended state, normal symbol probability changing state, normal symbol short time state, and special symbol short time state) (high base) Transition to a state).

  On the left and right sides of the game area 7 of the game board 6, there are provided decorative LEDs 25 that are displayed blinking during the game, and at the lower part there is an outlet 26 for taking in a hit ball that has not won. In addition, two speakers 27R and 27L that utter sound effects and sounds as predetermined sound outputs are provided on the left and right upper portions outside the game area 7. A top frame LED 28a, a left frame LED 28b, and a right frame LED 28c provided on the front frame are provided on the outer periphery upper portion, the outer periphery left portion, and the outer periphery right portion of the game area 7. Also, a prize ball LED 51 that is turned on when there is a remaining number of prize balls is provided in the vicinity of the left frame LED 28b, and a ball cut LED 52 that is turned on when the supply ball is cut is provided in the vicinity of the right frame LED 28c. . The top frame LED 28a, the left frame LED 28b, the right frame LED 28c, and the decoration LED 25 are examples of effects light emitters provided in the pachinko gaming machine 1. In addition to the above-described various LEDs for production (decoration), LEDs and lamps for production are installed. Also, a first abnormality notification LED 19a that is turned on when the number of unpaid game balls exceeds a predetermined number while the payout operation is stopped is provided in the vicinity of the right frame LED 28c. In addition, the surplus ball receiving tray 4 is provided with a second abnormality notification LED 19b that is turned on when the surplus ball receiving tray 4 is in a full tank state in which a predetermined amount or more of game balls are stored. Although not shown in FIG. 1, a prepaid card unit (hereinafter referred to as a card unit) 50 that enables lending by inserting a prepaid card is adjacent to the pachinko gaming machine 1. is set up.

  In the gaming machine, a ball hitting device (not shown) that drives a driving motor in response to the player operating the hitting operation handle 5 and uses the rotational force of the driving motor to launch the gaming ball into the game area 7. ) Is provided. A game ball launched from the ball striking device enters the game area 7 through a ball striking rail formed in a circular shape so as to surround the game area 7, and then descends the game area 7. When the game ball enters the first start winning opening 13 and is detected by the first start opening switch 13a, if the variable display of the first special symbol can be started (for example, the variable display of the special symbol ends, 1), the first special symbol display 8a starts variable display (variation) of the first special symbol and the effect display device 9 starts variable display of the effect symbol. In other words, the variable display of the first special symbol and the effect symbol corresponds to winning in the first start winning opening 13. If the variable display of the first special symbol cannot be started, the first reserved memory number is increased by 1 on the condition that the first reserved memory number has not reached the upper limit value. When the game ball enters the second start winning port 14 and is detected by the second start port switch 14a, if the variable display of the second special symbol can be started (for example, the special symbol variable display ends and starts). When the condition is satisfied), the variable display (variation) of the second special symbol is started on the second special symbol display 8b, and the variable display of the effect symbol is started on the effect display device 9. That is, the variable display of the second special symbol and the effect symbol corresponds to winning in the second start winning opening 14. If the variable display of the second special symbol cannot be started, the second reserved memory number is increased by 1 on condition that the second reserved memory number has not reached the upper limit value.

  Next, the structure of the back surface of the pachinko gaming machine 1 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 2 is a rear view of the gaming machine as seen from the back side. As shown in FIG. 2, on the back side of the pachinko gaming machine 1, there are a variable display control unit including an effect control board 80 on which an effect control microcomputer 100 for controlling the effect display device 9 is mounted, a game control microcomputer, and the like. Various boards such as a mounted game control board (main board) 31, an audio output board 70, a lamp driver board 35, a payout control board 37 on which a payout control microcomputer for performing ball payout control and the like are mounted are installed. . The game control board 31 is stored in the board storage case 200. Further, on the back side of the pachinko gaming machine 1, a power supply board 910 and a touch sensor board 91 on which power supply circuits for creating various power supply voltages such as DC30V, DC21V, DC12V and DC5V are mounted. The power supply board 910 is supplied with the game control board 31 and each electrical component control board (the effect control board 80 and the payout control board 37) in the pachinko gaming machine 1 and each electrical component (power is supplied) provided in the pachinko gaming machine 1. A power switch as a power supply permission means for executing or shutting off the power supply to the component), and a clear switch for clearing the RAM 55 of the game control microcomputer 560 of the game control board 31 are provided. ing. Further, a replaceable fuse is provided inside the power switch (inside the substrate). In this embodiment, the main board 31 is provided on the game board side, and the payout control board 37 is provided on the game frame side. Even in such a configuration, as will be described later, the communication between the main board 31 and the payout control board 37 is performed by serial communication, thereby facilitating the routing of the wiring when replacing the game board. .

  Each control board is equipped with control means including a control microcomputer. The control means is an electrical component (game device: ball payout device 97, effect display device 9, light emission from a lamp, LED, etc.) provided in the gaming machine according to a command signal (control signal) as a command from the game control means or the like. Body, speaker 27, etc.). Hereinafter, the main board 31 may be included in the control board for explanation. In that case, the control means mounted on the control board refers to each of the game control means and the means for controlling the electrical components provided in the gaming machine in accordance with a command signal from the game control means or the like. A substrate on which a microcomputer other than the main substrate 31 is mounted may be referred to as a sub-substrate. The ball payout device 97 is a device for paying out a game ball guided by a passage for guiding the game ball and a sprocket driven by a stepping motor or the like to an upper plate or a lower plate. A payout number counting switch for counting prize balls and rental balls is also configured as part of the unit. The payout detection means is realized by the payout number count switch 301 and has a function of detecting that a winning ball or a lending ball is actually paid out from the ball payout device 97. In this case, the payout number count switch 301 outputs a detection signal every time one payout of prize balls or rental balls is detected.

  On the back side of the pachinko gaming machine 1, a terminal board 160 having terminals for outputting various information to the outside of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is installed above. On the terminal board 160, for example, a door opening signal terminal for externally outputting a door opening signal indicating that the game frame is in an open state, or a prize ball that is output every time ten prize balls are paid out are detected. A prize ball information terminal for externally outputting information is provided. The game ball stored in the storage tank 38 passes through a guide rail (not shown), and reaches a ball payout device 97 covered with a payout case 40A through a curve rod. Above the ball payout device 97, a ball break switch 187 is provided as a game medium break detection means. When the ball break switch 187 detects a ball break, the payout operation of the ball payout device 97 stops. The ball break switch 187 is a switch for detecting the presence or absence of a game ball in the game ball passage, but the ball break detection switch 167 for detecting the shortage of supply balls in the storage tank 38 is also an upstream portion of the guide rail (in the storage tank 38). (Proximate part). When the ball break detection switch 167 detects a shortage of game balls, the game balls are replenished to the pachinko gaming machine 1 from the replenishment mechanism provided on the gaming machine installation island.

  When a large number of game balls as prizes based on winning prizes or game balls based on ball lending requests are paid out and the hitting ball supply tray 3 becomes full, the game balls are guided to the surplus ball receiving tray 4 through the surplus ball guide passage. Further, when the game ball is paid out, a sensing lever (not shown) presses the full tank switch as the storage state detection means, and the full tank switch as the storage state detection means is turned on. In this embodiment, when the full switch is turned on, the rotation of the payout motor in the ball payout device stops and the operation of the ball payout device stops, but the driving of the ball hitting device is not stopped (that is, the game A ball can be fired). In addition, when the full tank switch is turned on (or when one or more of various errors described later occur), the operation of the ball dispensing device may be stopped and the driving of the ball hitting device may also be stopped.

  FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a circuit configuration example in the main board (game control board) 31. FIG. 3 also shows a payout control board 37, an effect control board 80, and the like. A game control microcomputer (corresponding to game control means) 560 for controlling the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to a program is mounted on the main board 31. The game control microcomputer 560 includes a ROM 54 for storing a game control (game progress control) program and the like, a RAM 55 as storage means used as a work memory, a CPU 56 for performing control operations in accordance with the program, and an I / O port unit 57. including. In this embodiment, the ROM 54 and the RAM 55 are built in the game control microcomputer 560. That is, the game control microcomputer 560 is a one-chip microcomputer. The one-chip microcomputer only needs to incorporate at least the CPU 56 and the RAM 55, and the ROM 54 may be external or built-in. The I / O port unit 57 may be externally attached. The game control microcomputer 560 further includes a random number circuit 503 that generates hardware random numbers (random numbers generated by the hardware circuit). In the game control microcomputer 560, the CPU 56 executes control in accordance with a program stored in the ROM 54. Therefore, the game control microcomputer 560 (or the CPU 56) executes (or performs processing) hereinafter. Specifically, the CPU 56 executes control according to a program. The same applies to microcomputers mounted on substrates other than the main substrate 31.

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

  Further, the game control microcomputer 560 has a function of setting an initial value of numerical data updated by the random number circuit 503. For example, a predetermined calculation is performed using an ID number of the game control microcomputer 560 (an ID number assigned to each product of the game control microcomputer 560) stored in a predetermined storage area such as the ROM 54. The numerical data obtained in this way is set as the initial value of the numerical data that the random number circuit 503 updates. By performing such processing, the randomness of the random number generated by the random number circuit 503 can be further improved. The game control microcomputer 560 reads the numerical data as random R from the random number circuit 503 when a start winning to the first start port switch 13a or the second start port switch 14a occurs, and starts to change the special symbol and the effect symbol Sometimes it is determined whether or not to make a jackpot display result as a specific display result based on the random R, that is, whether or not to make a jackpot display result. Then, when it is determined to be a big hit, the gaming state is shifted to a big hit gaming state as a specific gaming state advantageous to the player.

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

  A reset signal (not shown) from the power supply board is input to the reset terminal of the game control microcomputer 560. A reset circuit for generating a reset signal supplied to the game control microcomputer 560 and the like is mounted on the power supply board. When the reset signal becomes high level, the game control microcomputer 560 and the like are in an operable state, and when the reset signal becomes low level, the game control microcomputer 560 and the like are in an operation stop state. Therefore, an allowable signal that allows the operation of the game control microcomputer 560 or the like is output during a period when the reset signal is at a high level, and a game control microcomputer is output when the reset signal is at a low level. An operation stop signal for stopping the operation of 560 or the like is output. Note that the reset circuit may be mounted on each electric component control board (a board on which a microcomputer for controlling the electric parts is mounted).

  A power-off signal indicating that the power supply voltage from the power supply board has dropped below a predetermined value is input to the input port of the game control microcomputer 560. That is, the power supply board monitors the voltage value of a predetermined voltage (for example, DC30V or DC5V) used in the gaming machine, and when the voltage value drops to a predetermined value, a power supply indicating that A power supply monitoring circuit that outputs a disconnection signal is installed. A clear signal (not shown) indicating that the clear switch for instructing to clear the contents of the RAM is operated is input to the input port of the game control microcomputer 560.

  An input driver circuit 58 that supplies detection signals from the gate switch 32a, the first start port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a, the first count switch 23a, and the second count switch 23b to the game control microcomputer 560 is also main. It is mounted on the substrate 31. Further, a solenoid 16 for opening and closing the variable winning ball apparatus 15, a solenoid 21a for opening and closing a first special variable winning ball apparatus 20a for forming a first big winning opening, and a second special variable winning ball apparatus for forming a second big winning opening. An output circuit 59 for driving the solenoid 21b for opening and closing 20b in accordance with a command from the game control microcomputer 560 is also mounted on the main board 31. An information output circuit (not shown) that outputs an information output signal such as jackpot information indicating the occurrence of a jackpot gaming state to an external device such as a hall computer is also mounted on the main board 31.

  FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing components related to payout, such as the payout control board 37 and the ball payout device 97. As shown in FIG. 4, the payout control board 37 includes a payout control microcomputer 370 including a payout control CPU 371. In this embodiment, the payout control microcomputer 370 is a one-chip microcomputer and incorporates at least a RAM. The payout control microcomputer 370, the RAM (not shown), the ROM (not shown) storing the payout control program, the I / O port, and the like constitute payout control means. That is, the payout control means is realized by a payout control CPU 371, a payout control microcomputer 370 having a RAM and a ROM, and an I / O port. The I / O port may be built in the payout control microcomputer 370. In this embodiment, unlike the game control microcomputer 560, the RAM built in the payout control microcomputer 370 is not backed up by a backup power source, and thus power supply to the game machine is stopped. The stored contents of the RAM built in the payout control microcomputer 370 will be lost, but even if it is configured so that the stored contents are not lost by receiving a power backup like the game control microcomputer 560. Good.

  The payout control microcomputer 370 performs control for paying out the game ball on the basis that a predetermined payout condition is satisfied. The payout condition is that a game ball has won a winning area (first grand prize opening, second grand prize opening, first starting prize opening 13, second starting prize opening 14) provided in the gaming area, It is established when a rental ball request is made. For example, when applied to a gaming machine such as a parrot machine or a slot machine, the payout condition is that a request to return a game ball or medal is made, or that the symbol of the symbol is a predetermined winning symbol. It is established by.

  Detection signals from the ball break switch 187, the full switch 48, and the payout number count switch 301 are input to the I / O port 372 f of the payout control board 37 via the relay board 72. The detection signal from the payout number count switch 301 is input to the payout control microcomputer 370 and then output to the main board 31 via the I / O port 372a and the output circuit 373B. The detection signal from the payout motor position sensor 295 is input to the I / O port 372e of the payout control board 37 via the relay board 72. The payout motor position sensor 295 is a sensor composed of a light emitting element (LED) and a light receiving element for detecting the rotational position of the payout motor 289, and is used for detecting that the game ball is clogged, that is, so-called ball biting. In the payout control microcomputer 370 mounted on the payout control board 37, the detection signal from the ball break switch 187 indicates a full ball state, or the detection signal from the full tank switch 48 indicates a full tank state. Then, the ball payout process is stopped.

  The payout control microcomputer 370 incorporates a serial communication circuit 380 for inputting / outputting (transmitting / receiving) signals with the game control microcomputer 560 through serial communication. In this embodiment, the game control microcomputer 560 and the payout control microcomputer 370 communicate commands between the game control microcomputer 560 and the payout control microcomputer 370 via the serial communication circuits 505 and 380. Are exchanging (sending and receiving). For example, when a winning occurs, the game control microcomputer 560 sets data indicating the number of winning balls to be paid out in the lower 4 bits of the winning ball number command, and the set winning ball number command is used as the payout control microcomputer. To 370. In addition, when a predetermined error (an error such as full tank, unpaid number abnormalities, out of ball, abnormal number of paidouts, etc.) occurs, the payout control microcomputer 370 displays data indicating the contents of the error as a payout error command. Are set by making the lower 4 bits different, and the set payout error command is transmitted to the game control microcomputer 560.

  Also, the payout control microcomputer 370 outputs an error signal to the error display LED 374 by the 7 segment LED via the output port 372c. A detection signal from an error release switch 375 for releasing the error state is input to the input port 372f of the payout control board 37. The error cancel switch 375 is used to cancel the error state by software reset. Further, a drive signal from the payout control microcomputer 370 to the payout motor 289 is transmitted to the payout motor 289 in the payout mechanism portion of the ball payout device 97 via the output port 372a and the relay board 72. A driver circuit (motor drive circuit) is installed outside the output port 372a, but is not shown in FIG.

  A card unit control microcomputer is mounted on the card unit 50 installed adjacent to the gaming machine. In addition, the card unit 50 is provided with a usable display lamp, a connecting table direction indicator, a card insertion display lamp, and a card insertion slot. The interface board (relay board) 66 is connected to a frequency display LED 60, a ball lending LED 61, a ball lending switch 62 and a return switch 63 provided in the vicinity of the hitting ball supply tray 3. A card lending switch signal indicating that the ball lending switch 62 has been operated and a return switch signal indicating that the return switch 63 has been operated are provided to the card unit 50 from the interface board 66 in accordance with the player's operation. . Further, a card balance display signal indicating a prepaid card balance and a ball lending display signal are given from the card unit 50 to the interface board 66. Between the card unit 50 and the payout control board 37, a connection signal (VL signal), a unit operation signal (BRDY signal), a ball lending request signal (BRQ signal), a ball lending completion signal (EXS signal) and a pachinko machine operation signal ( PRDY signal) is transmitted / received via the input port 372f and the output port 372d. An interface board 66 is interposed between the card unit 50 and the payout control board 37. Therefore, a signal such as a connection signal (VL signal) is transmitted and received between the card unit 50 and the payout control board 37 via the interface board 66 as shown in FIG.

  When the power of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is turned on, the payout control microcomputer 370 mounted on the payout control board 37 outputs a PRDY signal to the card unit 50. The card unit control microcomputer outputs a VL signal when the power is turned on. The payout control microcomputer 370 determines the connected / unconnected state of the card unit 50 according to the input state of the VL signal. When a card is received in the card unit 50, the ball lending switch is operated and a ball lending switch signal is input, the card unit control microcomputer outputs a BRDY signal to the payout control board 37. When a predetermined delay time elapses from this point, the card unit control microcomputer outputs a BRQ signal to the payout control board 37. Then, the payout control microcomputer 370 raises the EXS signal to the card unit 50 and, when detecting the fall of the BRQ signal from the card unit 50, drives the payout motor 289 to give a predetermined number of rental balls to the player. Pay out. When the payout is completed, the payout control microcomputer 370 causes the EXS signal to the card unit 50 to fall. Thereafter, when a BRDY signal from the card unit 50 is not in an ON state, a prize ball payout control is executed when a payout command signal is received from the game control means.

  FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a circuit configuration example of the relay board 77, the effect control board 80, the lamp driver board 35, and the audio output board 70. In the example shown in FIG. 5, the lamp driver board 35 and the audio output board 70 are not equipped with a microcomputer, but may be equipped with a microcomputer. Further, without providing the lamp driver board 35 and the audio output board 70, only the effect control board 80 may be provided for effect control.

  The effect control board 80 includes an effect control microcomputer 100 including an effect control CPU 101 and a RAM. The RAM may be externally attached. In the effect control board 80, the effect control CPU 101 operates in accordance with a program stored in a built-in or external ROM (not shown), and receives a capture signal from the main board 31 input via the relay board 77 ( In response to the (effect control INT signal), an effect control command is received via the input driver 102 and the input port 103. Further, the effect control CPU 101 causes the VDP (video display processor) 109 to perform display control of the effect display device 9 based on the effect control command. Further, the RAM included in the production control microcomputer 100 is a backup RAM as a nonvolatile storage means, part of which is backed up by a backup power source created on the power supply board. That is, even if the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, a part of the RAM included in the effect control microcomputer 100 is maintained for a predetermined period (until the backup power supply is discharged and the backup power supply cannot be supplied). The contents are saved. In particular, at least data indicating the gaming state is stored in the backup RAM.

  In this embodiment, a VDP 109 that performs display control of the effect display device 9 in cooperation with the effect control microcomputer 100 is mounted on the effect control board 80. The VDP 109 has an address space independent of the production control microcomputer 100 and maps the VRAM therein. The VRAM is a buffer memory for expanding image data generated by the VDP. Then, the VDP 109 outputs the image data in the VRAM to the effect display device 9. The effect control CPU 101 reads necessary data from a character ROM (not shown) in accordance with the received effect control command. The character ROM is for storing character image data displayed on the effect display device 9, specifically, a person, characters, figures, symbols, etc. (including effect symbols) in advance. The effect control CPU 101 outputs the data read from the character ROM to the VDP 109. The VDP 109 executes display control based on the data input from the effect control CPU 101.

  The effect control command and the effect control INT signal are first input to the input driver 102 on the effect control board 80. The input driver 102 is also a unidirectional circuit as a signal direction regulating means that allows a signal input from the relay board 77 to pass only in the direction toward the inside of the effect control board 80. The relay board 77 is equipped with a unidirectional circuit 74 as signal direction regulating means that allows a signal input from the main board 31 to pass only in the direction toward the effect control board 80. For example, a diode or a transistor is used as the unidirectional circuit. FIG. 5 illustrates a diode. A unidirectional circuit is provided for each signal. In addition, since the effect control command and the effect control INT signal are output from the main board 31 via the output port 571 that is a unidirectional circuit, the signal from the relay board 77 toward the inside of the main board 31 is restricted. That is, the signal from the relay board 77 does not enter the inside of the main board 31 (the game control microcomputer 560 side). The output port 571 is a part of the I / O port unit 57 shown in FIG. Further, a signal driver circuit that is a unidirectional circuit may be further provided outside the output port 571 (on the relay board 77 side).

  The effect control CPU 101 outputs a signal for driving the LED to the lamp driver board 35 via the output port 105. Further, the production control CPU 101 outputs sound number data to the audio output board 70 via the output port 104. In the lamp driver board 35, a signal for driving the LED is input to the LED driver 352 via the input driver 351. The LED driver 352 supplies a drive signal to each LED provided on the frame side such as the top frame LED 28a, the left frame LED 28b, the right frame LED 28c, the first abnormality notification LED 19a, and the second abnormality notification LED 19b. Further, a drive signal is supplied to the decoration LED 25 provided on the game board side. When a light emitter other than the LED is provided, a drive circuit (driver) for driving the light emitter is mounted on the lamp driver substrate 35. In the voice output board 70, the sound number data is input to the voice synthesis IC 703 via the input driver 702. The voice synthesizing IC 703 generates voice or sound effect according to the sound number data, and outputs it to the amplifier circuit 705. The amplifier circuit 705 outputs an audio signal obtained by amplifying the output level of the speech synthesis IC 703 to a level corresponding to the volume set by the volume 706 to the speakers 27R and 27L. The voice data ROM 704 stores control data corresponding to the sound number data. The control data corresponding to the sound number data is a collection of data showing the output form of the sound effect or sound in a time series in a predetermined period (for example, the changing period of the effect design).

  Next, the operation of the gaming machine will be described. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a main process executed by the game control microcomputer 560 on the main board 31. When power is supplied to the gaming machine and power supply is started, the input level of the reset terminal to which the reset signal is input becomes high level, and the gaming control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) After executing a security check process, which is a process for confirming whether the contents of the program are valid, the main process after S1 is started. In the main process, initial setting is performed first. In the initial setting process, the CPU 56 first sets the interrupt prohibition (S1). Next, the interrupt mode is set to interrupt mode 2 (S2), and a stack pointer designation address is set to the stack pointer (S3). Then, after initialization of the built-in device (CTC (counter / timer) and PIO (parallel input / output port) which are built-in devices (built-in peripheral circuits)) is performed (S4), the RAM is made accessible. Set (S5). In the interrupt mode 2, the address synthesized from the value (1 byte) of the specific register (I register) built in the CPU 56 and the interrupt vector (1 byte: least significant bit 0) output from the built-in device is This mode indicates an interrupt address.

  Next, the CPU 56 checks the state of the output signal (clear signal) of the clear switch (for example, mounted on the power supply board) input via the input port (S6). When it is in the on state, the CPU 56 executes normal initialization processing (S10 to S15). If it is not in the ON state, it is confirmed whether or not data protection processing for the backup RAM area (for example, power supply stop processing such as addition of parity data) has been performed when power supply to the gaming machine is stopped (S7). ). When it is confirmed that such protection processing is not performed, the CPU 56 executes initialization processing. Whether there is backup data in the backup RAM area is confirmed, for example, by the state of the backup flag set in the backup RAM area in the power supply stop process.

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

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

  Further, the CPU 56 transmits a power failure recovery designation command as an initialization command at the time of power supply recovery (S43). Then, the process proceeds to S13a. In this embodiment, the CPU 56 also transmits, to the effect control board 80, a total reserved memory number designation command in which the value of the total reserved memory number counter stored in the backup RAM is set in the process of S43. In this embodiment, it is confirmed whether the data in the backup RAM area is stored using both the backup flag and the check data. However, only one of them may be used. That is, either the backup flag or the check data may be used as an opportunity for executing the game state restoration process.

  In the initialization process, the CPU 56 first performs a RAM clear process (S10). The RAM clear process initializes predetermined data (for example, count value data of a counter for generating a random number for normal symbol determination) to 0, but an arbitrary value or a predetermined value It may be initialized to. In addition, the entire area of the RAM 55 may not be initialized, and predetermined data (for example, count value data of a counter for generating a random number for normal symbol determination) may be left as it is. The initial address of the initialization setting table stored in the ROM 54 is set as a pointer (S11), and the contents of the initialization setting table are sequentially set in the work area (S12). By the processing of S11 and S12, for example, a random number counter for normal symbol determination, a special symbol buffer, a total winning ball number storage buffer, a special symbol process flag, and other flags for selectively performing processing according to the control state are initialized. Is set. Further, the CPU 56 initializes a sub board (a board on which a microcomputer other than the main board 31 is mounted) (a command indicating that the game control microcomputer 560 has executed an initialization process). (S13) is transmitted to the sub-board (S13). For example, when the effect control microcomputer 100 receives the initialization designation command, the effect display device 9 performs screen display for notifying that the control of the gaming machine has been performed, that is, initialization notification.

  Further, the CPU 56 executes a random number circuit setting process for initially setting the random number circuit 503 (S14). For example, by executing processing according to the random number circuit setting program, the setting for causing the random number circuit 503 to update the random R value is performed. In S15, the CPU 56 sets a CTC register built in the game control microcomputer 560 so that a timer interrupt is periodically taken every predetermined time (for example, 2 ms). That is, a value corresponding to, for example, 2 ms is set in a predetermined register (time constant register) as an initial value. In this embodiment, it is assumed that a timer interrupt is periodically taken every 2 ms.

  When the execution of the initialization process (S10 to S15) is completed, the CPU 56 repeatedly executes the display random number update process (S17) and the initial value random number update process (S18) in the main process. When executing the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process, the interrupt disabled state is set (S16), and when the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process are completed, the interrupt enabled state is set. (S19). The display random number is a random number for determining the stop symbol of the special symbol when it is not a big hit or a random number for determining whether to reach when it is not a big hit. This is a process of updating the count value of the counter for generating the display random number. The initial value random number update process is a process for updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number. The initial value random number is a random number for determining the initial value of the count value of a counter for generating a random number for determining whether or not to win a normal symbol (ordinary random number generation counter for normal symbol determination). is there. A game control process for controlling the progress of a game, which will be described later (a game control microcomputer 560 is a process for controlling a game device such as an effect display device or a ball payout device provided in the game machine, or other In the process of transmitting a command signal to cause the microcomputer to control, also referred to as a gaming device control process), the count value of the random number for determination per normal symbol is one round (the minimum value that can be taken by the random number for determination per normal symbol) The initial value is set in the counter.

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

  Next, the CPU 56 has a first special symbol display 8a, a second special symbol display 8b, a normal symbol display 10, a first special symbol hold storage display 18a, a second special symbol hold storage display 18b, a normal symbol. A display control process for controlling the display of the on-hold storage display 41 is executed (S22). For the first special symbol display 8a, the second special symbol display 8b, and the normal symbol display 10, a control for outputting a drive signal to each display according to the contents of the output buffer set in S32 and S33. Execute. Next, a process of updating the count value of each counter for generating a random number for determination such as a random number for determination per normal symbol used for game control is performed (determination random number update process: S23). Also, processing for updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number and the display random number is performed (initial value random number update processing, display random number update processing: S24, S25).

  Further, the CPU 56 performs special symbol process processing (S26). In the special symbol process, a special symbol process for controlling the first special symbol indicator 8a, the second special symbol indicator 8b, and the big prize opening (the first big prize opening and the second big prize opening) in a predetermined order. The corresponding process is executed according to the flag. The CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag according to the gaming state. Next, the normal symbol process is performed (S27). In the normal symbol process, the CPU 56 executes a corresponding process according to the normal symbol process flag for controlling the display state of the normal symbol display 10 in a predetermined order. The CPU 56 updates the value of the normal symbol process flag according to the gaming state. Further, the CPU 56 performs a process of sending an effect control command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (effect control command control process: S28). Further, the CPU 56 performs information output processing for outputting data such as jackpot information, starting information, probability variation information supplied to the hall management computer, for example (S29).

  Further, the CPU 56 executes prize ball processing for setting the number of prize balls based on detection signals of the first start port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a, the first count switch 23a, and the second count switch 23b ( S30). Specifically, the payout control board 37 is activated in response to winning detection based on one of the first start port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a, the first count switch 23a, and the second count switch 23b being turned on. A payout control command (award ball number signal) indicating the number of prize balls is output to a mounted payout control microcomputer. The payout control microcomputer drives the ball payout device 97 in accordance with a payout control command indicating the number of winning balls. Further, the CPU 56 outputs to the output port the contents regarding the solenoid on / off in the RAM area corresponding to the output state of the output port (S31: output processing). In this embodiment, a RAM area (output port buffer) corresponding to the output state of the output port is provided.

  Further, the CPU 56 performs special symbol display control processing for setting special symbol display control data for effect display of the special symbol in the output buffer for setting the special symbol display control data according to the value of the special symbol process flag ( S32). Further, the CPU 56 performs a normal symbol display control process for setting normal symbol display control data for effect display of the normal symbol in an output buffer for setting the normal symbol display control data according to the value of the normal symbol process flag ( S33). Next, the CPU 56 transmits a frame state display designation command in which information indicating the error state of the gaming machine and the like is set to display the error state of the gaming machine to the effect control microcomputer 100. Is executed (S33a). Thereafter, the interrupt permission state is set (S34), and the process ends.

  With the above control, the game control process is started every 2 ms. The game control process corresponds to the processes of S21 to S33a (excluding S29) in the timer interrupt process. In this embodiment, the game control process is executed by the timer interrupt process. However, in the timer interrupt process, for example, only a flag indicating that an interrupt has occurred is set, and the game control process is performed by the main process. May be executed.

  If the first special symbol display device 8a or the second special symbol display device 8b and the effect display device 9 are stopped and displayed, the variable display state is changed to the reach state after the variable display of the effect symbol is started. In addition, combinations of predetermined production symbols that are not reachable may be stopped and displayed. Such a variable display mode of the effect symbol is referred to as a variable display mode of “non-reach” (also referred to as “normally shift”) in a case where the variable display result is a loss symbol. When the first special symbol display unit 8a or the second special symbol display unit 8b and the effect display device 9 are stopped and displayed in a stopped state, the variable display state of the effect symbol is changed after the variable display of the effect symbol is started. After reaching the reach state, a reach effect is executed, and a combination of predetermined effect symbols that do not eventually become a jackpot symbol may be stopped and displayed. Such a variable display result of the effect design is referred to as a variable display mode of “reach” (also referred to as “reach out”) when the variable display result is “out of”. In this embodiment, when the big win symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b, the reach effect is executed after the variable display state of the effect symbol becomes the reach state. Eventually, the effect symbols are all stopped and displayed in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” symbol display areas 9L, 9C, and 9R on the effect display device 9.

  When “5”, which is a small hit, is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b, the effect display variable display mode is “suddenly probable big hit” on the effect display device 9. In the same manner as in the case where the effect symbol is variably displayed, a predetermined small hit symbol (the same symbol as the sudden probability variation big hit symbol, for example, "135") may be stopped and displayed. The display effect in the effect display device 9 corresponding to the fact that “5”, which is the small hit symbol, is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol indicator 8b is referred to as a “small hit” variable display mode. . Here, the small win is a hit that is allowed up to the number of times that the number of opening of the big prize opening is smaller than that of the big win (in this example, the opening for 0.1 seconds is twice). When the small hit game ends, the game state does not change. Suddenly probable big hit is a big hit in which the number of times of opening of the big prize opening is allowed in the big hit gaming state is small (in this example, the opening for 0.1 second is twice), but the opening time of the big prize opening is extremely short. And, it is a big hit that shifts the gaming state after the big hit game to the probabilistic state (it appears to the player as if it has suddenly changed into the probable state). In other words, the sudden winning odds and the small wins have the same opening pattern for the big prize opening. Therefore, if the winning opening is opened twice for 0.1 seconds, it is impossible to recognize whether it is a sudden big hit or a small hit, so the player is expected to have a high probability state (probable change state). Can improve the interest of the game.

  FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing a variation pattern of the effect symbol prepared in advance. As shown in FIG. 8, in this embodiment, the variable display result is “out of” and the variation pattern corresponding to the case where the variable display mode of the effect design does not involve the reach state, the shortened non-reach shift and the non-reach shift Is prepared. In addition, as a variation pattern corresponding to the case where the variable display result is “out of” and the variable display mode of the production symbol is associated with the reach state, normal deviation, pseudo-ream 1 normal deviation, super-removal, pseudo-ream 2 super-off and pseudo-ream Three supermarkets are prepared. Of the variation patterns accompanied by pseudo-continuous effects, re-variation is performed once when pseudo-ream 1 normal deviation is used, and re-variation is performed twice when pseudo-ream 2 super deviation is used. In the case of using the quasi-continuous 3 super shift, re-variation is performed three times. The re-variation is to temporarily execute the variable display of the effect symbol after temporarily stopping the effect symbol that is once shifted from the start of the variable display of the effect symbol until the display result is derived and displayed. In addition, when performing re-variation, you may make it temporarily stop the pseudo-dedicated symbol that appears only at the time of the pseudo-continuous that is not in the effect symbol arrangement. Also, among the variation patterns shown in FIG. 8, the shortened non-reach deviation is a variation pattern for shortening that has a shorter variation time than the non-reach deviation provided corresponding to the non-reach deviation. Further, as shown in FIG. 8, in this embodiment, the variation pattern corresponding to the case where the variable symbol display result of the special symbol is a normal big hit or a probable big hit is a normal pattern, a pseudo-unit per unit, a super unit, a pseudo-unit. There are two supermarkets and three pseudo-supermarkets. As shown in FIG. 8, in this embodiment, a special hit is prepared as a variation pattern corresponding to the case where the variable symbol display result of the special symbol suddenly changes to a big hit or a small hit.

  In this embodiment, the case where the variation time is fixed according to the type of reach is shown, but for example, even in the case of the same type of super reach, the total pending storage number Accordingly, the variation time may be varied. For example, the variation time may be shortened as the total number of pending storage increases. In addition, for example, when performing the variable display of the first special symbol, the variable time may be varied according to the first reserved memory number, and when performing the variable display of the second special symbol, The variation time may be varied depending on the second number of reserved memories. In this case, separate tables are prepared for each value of the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory number (for example, the variation pattern determination table for the reserved memory numbers 0 to 2 and the reserved memory numbers 3 and 4 are used. Fluctuation pattern determination table), the determination table may be selected according to the value of the first reserved memory number or the second reserved memory number, and the variation time may be varied.

  Further, in this embodiment, the variation time is different between the case where the gaming state is the normal state and the case where the gaming state is the time reduction state (in the case of the time reduction state, the variation time is short “ Even in the normal state (or the short time state), the variation time may be different depending on the total number of pending storages. For example, the variation time may be shortened as the total number of pending storage increases. In addition, for example, when performing the variable display of the first special symbol, the variable time may be varied according to the first reserved memory number, and when performing the variable display of the second special symbol, The variation time may be varied depending on the second number of reserved memories. When configured to use a different variation pattern determination table depending on the number of reserved storage, for example, the variation pattern determination table used when the display result is out of order and the total number of reserved storage is 3 or more is Compared to the fluctuation pattern determination table used when the number of memories is 0 to 2, the percentage of reach is reduced, or the percentage of “shortened non-reach out” that is short in fluctuation time is selected to be high A judgment value is set. As a result, the average fluctuation time can be shortened as the total number of pending storage increases.

  In addition, there are specific effects (for example, super reach) in the variation pattern determination table used when the total number of reserved storage is 3 or more and the variation pattern determination table used when the total number of stored storage is 0-2. ) Is assigned a common determination value (for example, 950 to 997). Therefore, regardless of the total number of pending storage (that is, even if the variation pattern determination table to be used is different), at the time of starting winning, as long as the value of the extracted random number for variation pattern type determination (random 2) is confirmed, a specific effect ( For example, it can be easily determined in advance whether or not it is accompanied by super reach. Therefore, prior to the variable display corresponding to the start winning prize, it can be notified that a specific effect (for example, super reach) is accompanied (for example, an effect control command indicating that effect is sent to the effect control microcomputer 100). This is realized by executing an effect such as a pre-reading effect in the effect control microcomputer 100 that has transmitted and received the effect control command), and can enhance the interest in the game.

FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing each random number. Each random number is used as follows.
(1) Random 1 (MR1): Determines the type of jackpot (ordinary jackpot, probability variation jackpot, sudden probability variation jackpot described later) (for jackpot type determination), (2) Random 3 (MR3): variation pattern (variation time) (3) Random 4 (MR4): Determines whether or not to generate a hit based on a normal symbol (for determination per normal symbol), (4) Random 5 (MR5): Random 4 initial value is determined (for random 4 initial value determination)

  In S23 in the game control process shown in FIG. 7, the game control microcomputer 560 counts a counter for generating (1) the big hit type determination random number and (4) the normal symbol determination random number. Up (add 1). That is, they are determination random numbers, and other random numbers are display random numbers (random 3) or initial value random numbers (random 5). In addition, in order to improve a game effect, you may use random numbers other than said random number. In this embodiment, a random number generated by hardware incorporated in the game control microcomputer 560 (or hardware external to the game control microcomputer 560) is used as the jackpot determination random number.

  FIG. 10A is an explanatory diagram showing a jackpot determination table. The jackpot determination table is a collection of data stored in the ROM 54 and is a table in which a jackpot determination value to be compared with the random R is set. The jackpot determination table includes a normal-time jackpot determination table used in a normal state (a gaming state that is not a probability change state) and a probability change jackpot determination table used in a probability change state. Each value described in the left column of FIG. 10A is set in the normal jackpot determination table, and each value described in the right column of FIG. Is set. The numerical value described in FIG. 10A is a jackpot determination value. FIGS. 10B and 10C are explanatory diagrams showing a small hit determination table. The small hit determination table is a collection of data stored in the ROM 54 and is a table in which a small hit determination value to be compared with the random R is set. The small hit determination table includes a small hit determination table (for the first special symbol) used when the variable display of the first special symbol is performed, and a small hit determination table used when the variable display of the second special symbol is performed. (For the second special symbol). Each value described in FIG. 10B is set in the small hit determination table (for the first special symbol), and in the small hit determination table (for the second special symbol), the values shown in FIG. Each numerical value listed is set. Moreover, the numerical values described in FIGS. 10B and 10C are small hit determination values.

  The CPU 56 extracts the count value of the random number circuit 503 at a predetermined time and uses the extracted value as the value of the jackpot determination random number (random R). The jackpot determination random number value is shown in FIG. If it matches any of the big hit determination values, the special symbol is decided to be a big hit (a normal big hit, a probability variation big hit, and a sudden probability variation big hit described later). Further, when the big hit determination random number value matches one of the small hit determination values shown in FIGS. 10B and 10C, it is determined to make a small hit for the special symbol. Note that the “probability” shown in FIG. 10A indicates the probability (ratio) of a big hit. In addition, “probability” shown in FIGS. 10B and 10C indicates the probability (ratio) of making a small hit. Further, deciding whether or not to win a jackpot means deciding whether or not to shift to the jackpot gaming state. It also means deciding whether or not to make a jackpot symbol. Further, determining whether or not to make a small hit means determining whether or not to shift to the small hit gaming state, but stopping in the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b. It also means determining whether or not the symbol is to be a small hit symbol. In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 10B and 10C, when the small hit determination table (for the first special symbol) is used, the small hit is determined at a ratio of 1/300. On the other hand, when using the small hit determination table (second special symbol), a case where the small hit is determined at a ratio of 1/3000 will be described. Therefore, when the first special symbol variation display is executed by starting the first start winning port 13, the second special symbol variation display is performed by starting the second start winning port 14. Compared to the case, the ratio determined as “small hit” is high.

  FIGS. 10D and 10E are explanatory diagrams showing the jackpot type determination tables 131a and 131b stored in the ROM 54. FIG. Of these, FIG. 10 (D) determines the jackpot type using the reserved memory based on the fact that the game ball has won the first start winning opening 13 (ie, when the first special symbol is displayed in a variable manner). This is a jackpot type determination table (for the first special symbol) 131a. Further, FIG. 10E shows a case where the jackpot type is determined using the reserved memory based on the fact that the game ball has won the second start winning opening 14 (that is, when the second special symbol is displayed in a variable manner). Is a jackpot type determination table (for the second special symbol) 131b. The jackpot type determination tables 131a and 131b, when it is determined that the variable display result is a jackpot symbol, based on a random number (random 1) for determining the jackpot type, This is a table that is referred to in order to determine one of the sudden probability big hits. In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 10D and 10E, when the first special winning symbol 13 is displayed and the first special symbol variation display is executed, the second Compared to the case where the start winning prize is received at the start winning opening 14 and the variation display of the second special symbol is executed, the ratio of suddenly determined to be a promising big hit is high. Note that sudden probability variation big hits may be assigned only to the first special symbol jackpot type determination table 131a, and sudden probability variation big hits may not be assigned to the second special symbol big hit type determination table 131b. Note that the determination values set in the table are different from each other and are not assigned redundantly.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 10D and 10E, as the first specific gaming state to which a predetermined amount of gaming value is given, there are two rounds of sudden probability change big hits and more than the gaming value. A case where 15 rounds of big hit (probable big hit or normal big hit) is determined as the second specific gaming state to which the amount of gaming value is given will be explained. However, when the variable display of the first special symbol is executed, Although the case where it is determined to be one specific gaming state is shown, the gaming value to be given is not limited to the number of rounds as shown in this embodiment. For example, as compared with the first specific gaming state, the second specific gaming state in which the allowable amount of the winning number (count number) of game balls to the big winning opening per round is increased as the gaming value is determined. Also good. Further, for example, as compared with the first specific gaming state, the second specific gaming state in which the opening time of the big winning opening per game during the big hit may be determined as the gaming value. In addition, for example, even if it is a big hit of the same 15 rounds, the first specific gaming state where the big winning opening is opened once per round and the second specific gaming state where the big winning opening is opened multiple times per round. It is also possible to increase the gaming value of the second specific gaming state by substantially increasing the number of times the special winning opening is opened. In this case, for example, in any case of the first specific gaming state or the second specific gaming state, when the big winning opening is opened 15 times (in this case, all 15 rounds in the case of the first specific gaming state) In the case of the second specific gaming state, there is an undigested round remaining), and it is possible to execute an effect in such a manner as to inquire whether or not the jackpot continues further. And in the case of the first specific gaming state, all the 15 rounds have been finished internally, so the big hit game is finished, and in the case of the second specific gaming state, there remains an undigested round internally. For this reason, the jackpot game may be continued (the effect that the bonus winning opening is additionally started with a bonus after finishing the bonus hit of 15 times).

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 10D and 10E, the big hit types include normal big hit, probability variation big hit and sudden probability variation big hit. The probable big hit is a big hit that is controlled to the 15-round big hit gaming state and is shifted to the probable state after the big hit gaming state is finished (in this embodiment, it is shifted to the probable state and also to the short time state). ) After the transition to the probability variation state, the probability variation state is maintained until the next big hit occurs. Also, the normal big hit is a big hit that is controlled to a 15-round big hit gaming state and is not shifted to the probable change state after the big hit gaming state is ended, but is shifted only to the short-time state. Then, after shifting to the time reduction state, the time reduction state is maintained until the execution of the variable display of the special symbol and the effect symbol is completed a predetermined number of times (for example, 100 times). In this embodiment, after the transition to the time reduction state, the time reduction state also ends when a big hit occurs before the execution of the predetermined number of variable displays is completed.

  The sudden probability variation big hit is a big hit that is allowed up to the number of times that the big winning opening is opened less than the probability variation big hit or the normal big hit (in this embodiment, the opening for 0.1 second is twice). In other words, when a sudden big odd hit is made, the game is controlled to a two round big hit gaming state. Then, after the two-round big hit gaming state is finished, the state is shifted to the probability changing state (in this embodiment, the state is shifted to the probability changing state and also to the time reduction state). After the transition to the probability variation state, the probability variation state is maintained until the next big hit occurs. As described above, even when the “small hit” is reached, the big winning opening is opened twice for 0.1 seconds, and the control similar to the big hit gaming state by the sudden probability change big hit is performed. In the case of a small win, the game state does not change after the opening of the two big winning openings ends, and the game state before the small win is maintained. By doing so, it is suddenly made impossible to recognize whether it is a promising big hit or a small hit, and the interest of the game is improved. The big hit type determination table is a numerical value to be compared with a random 1 value, and a determination value (big hit type determination value) corresponding to each of the normal big hit, the probability variation big hit, and the sudden probability variation big hit is set. When the value of random 1 matches any of the jackpot type determination values, the CPU 56 determines the type corresponding to the matching jackpot type determination value as the jackpot type determination value.

  FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing a variation pattern determination table. The variation pattern determination table is a table that is referred to in order to determine a variation pattern as one of a plurality of types based on a random number for random pattern determination (random 3) according to the type of jackpot or gaming state. is there. When the extracted random 3 (1 to 997) value matches the data (determination value) assigned to each variation pattern, the CPU 56 determines a pattern corresponding to the matching determination value of the variation pattern. In the example shown in FIG. 11, the ratio of determination values assigned to each variation pattern is shown. For example, when it is determined that the variable display result is “out” in the normal gaming state (“out” in FIG. 11), among the determination values corresponding to the random value 3 (1 to 997) Is set to the fluctuation pattern “non-reach”. That is, in the example shown in FIG. 11, each value set in the variation pattern determination table has a variable display result of “out of”, “out of phase (short time)”, “normal big hit / probable big hit” or “suddenly probable big hit / small”. In the case of “hit”, the ratio determined by the associated variation pattern is shown.

  In the example shown in FIG. 11, when it is determined that the variable display result is out of play in the normal gaming state, the ratio that is determined as “non-reach out” is the highest, and “pseudo 3 super out” Is the lowest rate. In addition, when it is determined that the variable display result is out of place in the time-short state, it is not determined as “non-reach out”, and the ratio of “short-out non-reach out” is high. The judgment value is assigned as follows. By setting in this way, a fluctuation pattern with a short fluctuation time can be easily selected in the short time state.

  In addition, in the case where it is determined that the variable display result is a normal big hit or a probable big hit, the ratio that is determined as "per pseudo-three supermarkets" is the highest in the variation pattern accompanied with the pseudo-continuous effect, The determination value is assigned so that the ratio determined to be “per normal for the pseudo-ream” is the lowest. That is, in the “normal big hit / probable big hit”, the fluctuation pattern with the larger number of pseudo-continuations among the fluctuation patterns accompanied with the pseudo-continuous effects is easily selected. Therefore, in the pseudo-continuous effect, the higher the number of pseudo-continuous times, the higher the expectation that the variable display result will be a big hit. In addition, the variation pattern with normal reach is easier to select when the variable display result is “out” than the variation pattern with super reach. Conversely, the variation pattern with super reach is more easily selected when the variable display result is the normal big hit or the probable big hit than the variation pattern with normal reach. Therefore, the variation pattern with super reach has a higher expectation of being a big hit than the variation pattern with normal reach.

  FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the contents of the effect control command transmitted by the game control microcomputer 560. In the example shown in FIG. 12, the command 80XX (H) is an effect control command (variation pattern command) for designating a variation pattern of the effect symbol that is variably displayed on the effect display device 9 in response to the variable display of the special symbol. (Each corresponding to a variation pattern XX). That is, when a unique number is assigned to each of the usable variation patterns shown in FIG. 8, there is a variation pattern command corresponding to each variation pattern specified by the number. “(H)” indicates a hexadecimal number. The effect control command for designating the variation pattern is also a command for designating the start of variation. Therefore, when receiving the command 80XX (H), the effect control microcomputer 100 controls the effect display device 9 to start variable display of effect symbols.

  Commands 8C01 (H) to 8C05 (H) are effect control commands indicating whether or not to make a big hit, whether or not to make a big hit, and a big hit type. The effect control microcomputer 100 determines the display result of the effect symbols in response to the reception of the commands 8C01 (H) to 8C05 (H), so the commands 8C01 (H) to 8C05 (H) are referred to as display result designation commands. Command 8D01 (H) is an effect control command (first symbol variation designation command) indicating that variable display (variation) of the first special symbol is started. Command 8D02 (H) is an effect control command (second symbol variation designation command) indicating that variable display (variation) of the second special symbol is started. The first symbol variation designation command and the second symbol variation designation command may be collectively referred to as a special symbol identification command (or symbol variation designation command). Note that information indicating whether to start variable display of the first special symbol or variable display of the second special symbol may be included in the variation pattern command.

  Command 8F00 (H) is an effect control command (symbol confirmation designation command) indicating that the variable display of the effect symbol is terminated and the display result is derived and displayed. When receiving the symbol confirmation designation command, the effect control microcomputer 100 ends the variable display of the effect symbols and derives and displays the display result. Command 9000 (H) is an effect control command (initialization designation command: power-on designation command) transmitted when power supply to the gaming machine is started. Command 9200 (H) is an effect control command (power failure recovery designation command) transmitted when power supply to the gaming machine is resumed. When the power supply to the gaming machine is started, the game control microcomputer 560 transmits a power failure recovery designation command if data is stored in the backup RAM, and if not, initialization designation is performed. Send command.

  Command 95XX (H) is an effect control command (winning time determination result designation command) indicating the contents of the winning time determination result. In this embodiment, in the winning effect processing (see FIG. 17), which will be described later, the game control microcomputer 560 determines which variation pattern is to be obtained when starting winning. Then, a value for specifying the variation pattern as the determination result is set in the EXT data of the determination result specifying result command at the time of winning, and control for transmission to the production control microcomputer 100 is performed. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the contents of a winning determination result specifying command. As shown in FIG. 13, a value is set in the EXT data and a winning determination result designation command is transmitted according to which variation pattern is determined at the time of starting winning. For example, when it is determined that the variation pattern is “out of shortened non-reach” at the time of starting winning at the first starting winning opening 13, a winning determination result specifying command in which “01 (H)” is set in the EXT data is transmitted. Is done.

  Command 9F00 (H) is an effect control command (customer waiting demonstration designation command) for designating a customer waiting demonstration. The commands A001 to A003 (H) are effect control commands for displaying the fanfare screen, that is, designating the start of the big hit game (big hit start designation command: fanfare designation command). The jackpot start designation command includes a jackpot start 1 designation command, a jackpot start designation 2 designation command, and a small hit / sudden probability sudden change jackpot start designation command corresponding to the type of jackpot. The command A1XX (H) is an effect control command (special command during opening of a big winning opening) indicating a display during the opening of the big winning opening for the number of times (round) indicated by XX. A2XX (H) is an effect control command (designation command after opening the big winning opening) indicating the closing of the big winning opening for the number of times (round) indicated by XX. The command A301 (H) is an effect control command for displaying the jackpot end screen, that is, specifying the end of the jackpot game and specifying that the jackpot game is normally a big jackpot (a jackpot end 1 specifying command: an ending 1 specifying command). is there. Command A302 (H) is an effect control command for displaying the jackpot end screen, that is, the end of the jackpot game and specifying that it is a probable big hit (big hit end 2 designation command: ending 2 designation command). is there. Command A 303 (H) is an effect control command (small hit / sudden probability sudden change big hit end designation command: ending 3 designation command) that designates the end of the small hit game or the sudden probability change big hit game.

  Command B000 (H) is an effect control command (normal state designation command) that designates that the gaming state is a normal state. Command B001 (H) is an effect control command (time-short state designation command) for designating that the gaming state is a time-short state (not including the probability variation state). Command B002 (H) is an effect control command (probability change state designation command) for designating that the gaming state is a probability change state. Command C0XX (H) is an effect control command (first reserved memory number designation command) for designating the first reserved memory number. “XX” in the command C0XX (H) indicates the first reserved storage number. Command C1XX (H) is an effect control command (second reserved memory number designation command) that designates the second reserved memory number. “XX” in the command C1XX (H) indicates the second reserved storage number.

  Command D00X (H) is an effect control command (frame state display designation command) for designating frame state display. The content of the EXT data of the frame state display designation command is “0X (H)”, that is, “0000XXXX”, and indicates an error state of the gaming machine to display the error state of the gaming machine. Here, for the lower 4 bits “XXXX” of the frame status display designation command, for example, when an unpaid-out number error described later occurs, “1” is set to “X” of the first bit (bit 0). Is set. When a full tank error occurs, “1” is set to “X” of the second bit (bit 1). When a ball break error occurs, “1” is set to “X” of the third bit (bit 2). In addition, when a payout number abnormality error described later occurs, “1” is set to “x” of the fourth bit (bit 3). Further, when not in an error state (when the error state is resolved), “1” is not set in any of the first bit (bit 0) to the fourth bit (bit 3). As described above, the frame state display designation command notifies that a predetermined error has occurred by changing the contents of the lower 4 bits in accordance with the error state (by changing the predetermined bits). In this embodiment, the case where the occurrence of the above four types of errors is indicated by the frame state display designation command will be described. However, for example, other various errors such as a payout case error may be dealt with. .

  FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing an example of the special symbol process (S26). In the special symbol process, a process for controlling the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b and the special winning opening (the first large winning opening and the second large winning opening) is executed. In the special symbol process, the CPU 56 turns on the first start opening switch 13a for detecting that the game ball has won the first start winning opening 13 or if the game ball is inserted into the second start winning opening 14. If the second start port switch 14a for detecting winning is turned on, start port switch passing processing is executed (S311 and S312). Then, any one of S300 to S310 is performed. If the first start port switch 13a or the second start port switch 14a is not turned on, any one of S300 to S310 is performed according to the internal state. The processes of S300 to S310 are as follows.

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

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

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

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

  Special symbol stop process (S304): Executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 4. The variable display on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b is stopped, and the stopped symbol is derived and displayed. In addition, control for transmitting a symbol confirmation designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 is performed. When the big hit flag is set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (5 in this example) corresponding to S305. If the small hit flag is set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to S308 (8 in this example). If neither is set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (0 in this example) corresponding to S300. The effect control microcomputer 100 controls the effect display device 9 to stop the effect symbol when receiving the symbol confirmation designation command transmitted by the game control microcomputer 560.

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

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

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

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

  Small hit release processing (S309): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 9. Processing to confirm the establishment of the closing condition of the big prize opening is performed. If the closing condition for the special prize opening is satisfied and there are still remaining rounds, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to S308 (8 in this example). When all the rounds are finished, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to S310 (in this example, 10 (decimal number)).

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

  FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the start port switch passing process in S312. In the start port switch passing process, the CPU 56 first checks whether or not the first start port switch 13a is in an on state (S1211). If not, the process proceeds to S1222. If it is on, the CPU 56 determines whether or not the first reserved memory number has reached the upper limit (specifically, the value of the first reserved memory number counter for counting the first reserved memory number is 4). Whether or not) (S1212). If the upper limit has been reached, the process proceeds to S1222. If the upper limit value has not been reached, the CPU 56 increases the value of the first reserved memory number counter by 1 (S1213) and increases the value of the total reserved memory number counter for counting the total reserved memory number by 1 (S1214). In addition, the CPU 56 corresponds to the value of the total reserved storage number counter in the reserved storage specific information storage area (hold specific area) for storing the winning order to the first start winning opening 13 and the second start winning opening 14. Data indicating “first” is set in the area (S1215).

  In this embodiment, when the first start port switch 13a is turned on, data indicating “first” is set, and when the second start port switch 14a is turned on, “second” is set. "Is set. For example, the CPU 56 sets 01 (H) as data indicating “first” when the first start port switch 13 a is turned on in the reserved storage specifying information storage area (holding specified area), and the first 2 When the start port switch 14a is turned on, 02 (H) is set as data indicating “second”. FIG. 16A is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of a reserved storage specifying information storage area (holding specified area). As shown in FIG. 16 (A), an area corresponding to the maximum value (8 in this example) of the total reserved memory number counter is secured in the reserved specific area. Data indicating “first” or “second” is set in the order of winning based on winning in the 2-start winning opening 14. Accordingly, the order of winning to the first start winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14 is stored in the hold storage specifying information storage area (hold specifying area). Note that the reserved specific area is formed in the RAM 55.

  Next, the CPU 56 executes a process of extracting a value from the random number circuit 503 and a counter for generating a software random number and storing it in the storage area in the first reserved storage buffer (S1216). In the process of S1216, a random R (big hit determination random number) that is a hardware random number and a big hit type determination random number (random 1 and a variation pattern determination random number (random 3)) that are software random numbers are extracted and stored in the storage area. 16B is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of an area for storing a random number or the like corresponding to reserved storage, as shown in FIG. A storage area corresponding to the upper limit value of the first reserved memory number (4 in this example) is secured, and the upper limit value of the second reserved memory number (4 in this example) is stored in the second reserved memory buffer. The first reserved storage buffer and the second reserved storage buffer are formed in the RAM 55.

  Next, the CPU 56 executes prize-winning effect processing for preliminarily determining a fluctuation display result and a fluctuation pattern when the fluctuation based on the detected start prize is subsequently executed (S1217). Further, control is performed to transmit a first reserved memory number designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 based on the value of the first reserved memory number counter, and then a winning determination result based on the determination result of the winning effect processing. Control for transmitting the designated command to the production control microcomputer 100 is performed (S1218). The CPU 56 executes the processing of S1218, so that the first start winning opening 13 is started regardless of the gaming state (whether it is a high probability state, a high base state, or a big hit gaming state). Every time a prize is won, both the first reserved memory number designation command and the prize determination result designation command are always transmitted to the production control microcomputer 100.

  In this embodiment, the first special symbol variation display or the second special symbol variation display is executed in accordance with the start winning order in which the game balls have won the first start winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14. However, it may be configured to preferentially execute either one of the variable displays. For example, when the state shifts to the high base state, it is easy to win in the second start winning port 14 provided with the variable winning ball apparatus 15 and the second reserved memory is easily accumulated. May be executed with priority. In this case, the process of S1215 can be omitted, and the reserved storage specifying information storage area (holding specified area) shown in FIG. Also, in this case, the CPU 56 is not in the high base state (when the short time flag is not set), and when winning based on the fact that the winning winning is based on the first start winning opening 13 on the condition that the big hit game is not being played An effect process (S1217) may be performed. That is, when the condition is not satisfied, the execution of the winning effect process (S1217) may be restricted, and the pre-reading effect described later may not be executed. In the configuration in which the second special symbol variation display is preferentially executed, the first special symbol variation based on the start winning at the first start winning port 13 in the gaming state where the second start winning port 14 is easy to start winning. Since the display may continue to be postponed, there is a possibility that even if the pre-reading effect is executed, a state in which the change display of the notice target is not executed easily occurs. However, by restricting the execution of the winning effect processing (S1217), it is possible to prevent the pre-reading effect based on the start winning winning being made at the first starting winning opening 13 and avoid such a state. Can do. Further, by restricting the effect processing at the time of winning during the high base state or the big hit game, it is possible to prevent the game from being played in a state where it can be recognized that the reserved memory for the big win is stored. Also, the game control microcomputer 560 side always performs the effect processing at the time of winning, and the effect control microcomputer 100 side determines whether it is in the high base state or whether it is in the big hit game, and pre-read effect May be restricted. Further, the game control microcomputer 560 side restricts the execution of the winning effect processing (that is, the pre-reading effect) based on the start winning at the first start winning opening 13 when the high base state or the big hit game is in progress. In the case of the configuration, on the side of the production control microcomputer 100, in the high base state, only the pre-reading effect based on the start winning prize in the second start winning opening 14 can be executed, and in the low base state, the first start winning opening is made. Only the pre-reading effect based on the start winning at 13 can be executed (ie, in the low base state, the pre-reading effect can be performed even if a winning determination result designation command is received based on the start winning at the second start winning port 14. It may be determined not to execute).

  Next, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the second start port switch 14a is in an on state (S1222), and ends the process if it is not in an on state. If it is on, the CPU 56 determines whether or not the second reserved memory number has reached the upper limit (specifically, the value of the second reserved memory number counter for counting the second reserved memory number is 4). (S1223), and if it has reached, the process is terminated. If the upper limit value has not been reached, the CPU 56 increases the value of the second reserved memory number counter by 1 (S1224) and increases the value of the total reserved memory number counter for counting the total reserved memory number by 1 (S1225). Further, in the reserved storage specific information storage area (hold specific area), data indicating “second” is set in an area corresponding to the value of the combined reserved storage number counter (S1226), and the random number circuit 503 and the software random number are set. A value is extracted from the counter for generation and stored in the storage area in the second reserved storage buffer (S1227). Next, the CPU 56 executes winning effect processing (S1228). Based on the value of the second reserved memory number counter, control is performed to transmit the second reserved memory number designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100, and then the winning determination result is based on the determination result of the winning effect processing. Control is performed to transmit the designated command to the production control microcomputer 100 (S1229).

  FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing a winning effect process. In the winning effect process, the CPU 56 compares the jackpot determination random number (random R) extracted in S1216 and S1227 with the normal jackpot determination value to check whether or not they match (S220). In this embodiment, at the timing of starting the variation of the special symbol and the effect symbol, whether or not to make a big hit or a small hit in the special symbol normal processing described later, determine the big hit type, or change pattern in the variation pattern setting processing In addition, at the timing when the game ball starts and wins at the first start winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14 before the variable display based on the start winning is started, By executing the winning time presentation process, it is confirmed in advance which variation pattern is to be obtained. By doing so, a variation pattern is predicted in advance before the variation display of the production symbol is executed, and a pre-reading production is performed in which a big hit or super reach is predicted based on the determination result at the time of winning. .

  If the big hit determination random number (random R) does not coincide with the normal big hit determination value, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the probability change flag indicating the probability change state is set (S221). If it is set, the CPU 56 compares the jackpot determination random number (random R) with the jackpot determination value at the time of probability change, and checks whether or not they match (S222). It should be noted that there is a possibility that a plurality of variation displays may be executed after confirming whether or not the state is surely changed in S221 at the time of the start winning, until the start of the variation display based on the start winning actually. Therefore, there are cases where the gaming state has changed (for example, when a probable big hit has occurred before the start of the change, the normal state changes to the probable state). Therefore, the gaming state determined in S221 at the time of starting winning and the gaming state determined at the start of variation (see S61 described later) are not always the same.

  If the big hit determination random number (random R) does not match the big hit determination value at the time of probability change (N in S222), the CPU 56 compares the big hit determination random number (random R) with the small hit determination value to determine whether they match. It is confirmed whether or not (S223). In this case, when there is a start winning at the first start winning opening 13, when a start winning at the second starting winning opening 14 is made using the small hit determination table (for the first special symbol). Determines whether or not it matches the small hit determination value using the small hit determination table (for the second special symbol). If the value matches the small hit determination value, the CPU 56 selects the “suddenly probable big hit / small hit” field of the variation pattern determination table (S226). On the other hand, if the big hit determination random number (random R) does not match the small hit determination value (N in S223), the CPU 56 determines the current gaming state (S224), and according to the determination result, the variation pattern determination table. Is selected (S225). For example, when it is determined that the gaming state is a probability change state or a short time state, the “displace (short time)” field of the variation pattern determination table is selected.

  When the jackpot determination random number (random R) matches the jackpot determination value in S220 or S222, the CPU 56 determines the jackpot type based on the jackpot type determination random number (random 1) extracted in S1216 and S1227. (S227). In this case, when there is a start winning at the first start winning opening 13, the CPU 56 uses the big hit type determination table (for the first special symbol) 131a to make a start winning at the second start winning opening 14. If there is, the jackpot type determination table (for the second special symbol) 131b is used to determine which jackpot type will be. Then, the CPU 56 selects a field of the variation pattern determination table according to the determined jackpot type. (S228).

  Next, the CPU 56 determines the variation pattern using the variation pattern determination table field set in S225, S226, and S228 and the variation pattern determination random number (random 3) extracted in S1216 and S1227 (S229). Then, the CPU 56 performs a process of setting the determined variation pattern in the winning determination result designation command (S230). Specifically, depending on which variation pattern is determined, the CPU 56 assigns one of the values “00 (H)” to “33 (H)” as shown in FIG. 13 to the winning determination result. Processing to set the EXT data of the specified command is performed. In this embodiment, the fluctuation pattern is determined using the same fluctuation pattern determination table even if the number of reserved memories is different. However, a different fluctuation pattern determination table may be used depending on the number of reserved memories. . In this case, for example, it is determined from the random number for determining the variation pattern (or random number for determining the variation pattern type) whether the variation pattern is accompanied by normal reach, super reach, etc. Based on this, a winning determination result designation command may be transmitted, or when it is determined that a specific variation pattern (for example, a variation pattern for performing a specific reach effect or a variation pattern for a specific number of simulated consecutive times) is obtained. Alternatively, a winning determination result specifying command indicating the determination result may be transmitted. Further, for example, it is determined whether or not the display result is a normal big hit or a probable big hit, and a command indicating the determination result is transmitted as a winning determination result specifying command or separately from the winning determination result specifying command. May be.

  18 and 19 are flowcharts showing the special symbol normal process (S300) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol normal process, the CPU 56 confirms the value of the total pending storage number (S51), and if it is 0, the process ends. If the total reserved storage number is not 0, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the first data among the data set in the reserved specific area is data indicating “first” (S52). When the first data set in the reserved specific area is not data indicating “first” (that is, data indicating “second”), the CPU 56 displays a special symbol pointer (special symbol process for the first special symbol). Data indicating “second” is set in a flag indicating whether the process is being performed or the special symbol process is being performed for the second special symbol (S54). When the first data set in the reserved specific area is data indicating “first”, the CPU 56 sets data indicating “first” in the special symbol pointer (S53).

  Next, the CPU 56 reads out each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the reserved storage number = 1 indicated by the special symbol pointer in the RAM 55 and stores it in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55 (S55). Specifically, when the special symbol pointer indicates “first”, the CPU 56 determines each disturbance stored in the storage area corresponding to the first reserved memory number = 1 in the first reserved memory number buffer. The numerical value is read and stored in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55. Then, the CPU 56 decrements the count value of the reserved storage number counter indicated by the special symbol pointer, and shifts the contents of each storage area (S56). Specifically, when the special symbol pointer indicates “first”, the CPU 56 subtracts 1 from the count value of the first reserved memory number counter, and in the reserved specific area and the first reserved memory buffer. Shift the contents of each storage area. In S56, when the count value of the reserved memory number counter indicated by the special symbol pointer is decremented by 1 in S56, the CPU 56 determines whether the first special symbol hold memory indicator 18a or Control is also performed to change the display of the second special symbol hold storage display 18b.

  Then, the CPU 56 stores the count value of the total pending storage number counter in a predetermined area of the RAM 55 (S57), and then decreases the value of the total pending storage number by one. That is, 1 is subtracted from the count value of the total pending storage number counter (S58). Further, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit the reserved memory number designation command indicated by the special symbol pointer to the effect control microcomputer 100 based on the value of the reserved memory number counter indicated by the special symbol pointer after the subtraction. (S59). When a value indicating “first” is set in the special symbol pointer, control for transmitting the first reserved memory number designation command is performed.

  Next, the CPU 56 reads a random R (a jackpot determination random number) from the random number buffer area, and performs a jackpot determination process (S61). When the gaming state is a probable change state, the jackpot determination table is used using the probability change jackpot determination table. When the gaming state is a normal gaming state or a short time state, the normal jackpot determination table is used. The big hit judgment process is performed. That is, when the value of the big hit determination random number (random R) matches one of the big hit determination values shown in FIG. 10A, the CPU 56 determines that the special symbol is a big hit. If it is decided to win, the process proceeds to S71. Note that deciding whether to win or not is to decide whether or not to shift to the big hit gaming state, but to decide whether or not to stop the special symbol display as a big hit symbol. But there is.

  If the value of the big hit determination random number (random R) does not match any of the big hit determination values, the CPU 56 performs a small hit determination process using the small hit determination table (S62). When the value of the big hit determination random number (random R) matches any of the small hit determination values, the CPU 56 determines that the special symbol is a small hit. At this time, if the data indicated by the special symbol pointer is “first”, it is determined whether or not to make a small hit using the small hit determination table (for the first special symbol). If it is determined to be a small hit, a small hit flag indicating a small hit is set (S63), and the process proceeds to S75. If the value of random R does not match the small hit determination value (if it is out of place), the process proceeds to S75 as it is.

  In S71, the CPU 56 sets a big hit flag indicating that it is a big hit. Then, as the table used for determining the jackpot type, the jackpot type determination table indicated by the special symbol pointer is selected (S72). Specifically, when the special symbol pointer indicates “first”, the CPU 56 selects the jackpot type determination table 131a for the first special symbol. Next, using the selected jackpot type determination table, the CPU 56 determines the type corresponding to the value that matches the value of the random number (random 1) for determining the jackpot type as the jackpot type (S73). Further, the CPU 56 sets data indicating the determined jackpot type in the jackpot type buffer in the RAM 55 (S74). For example, when the big hit type is “ordinary big hit”, “01” is set as data indicating the big hit type, “02” is set when “probable big hit”, and “sudden probability big hit” is set. “03” is set.

  Next, the CPU 56 determines a stop symbol of the special symbol (S75). Specifically, when neither the big hit flag nor the small hit flag is set, “−” which is a loss symbol is determined as a special symbol stop symbol. When the big hit flag is set, one of “1”, “3”, and “7”, which is a big hit symbol, is determined as a special symbol stop symbol according to the determination result of the big hit type. When the big hit type is determined to be “suddenly promising big hit”, it is set to “1”, when “normal big hit” is decided, it is decided to “3”, and when it is decided “probable big hit”, “7” Decided. When the small hit flag is set, the small hit symbol is determined to be “5”. Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern setting process (S301) (S76).

  FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing the variation pattern setting process. In the variation pattern setting process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the big hit flag is set (S91). If it is set, the CPU 56 selects “normal big hit / probable big hit” in the fluctuation pattern determination table (S93) when the big hit type is the normal big hit or the probability variation big hit (Y in S92). If it is not a big hit or a promising big hit (N in S92), “sudden probable big hit / small hit” is selected (S94). Then, the process proceeds to S101.

  If the big hit flag is not set, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the small hit flag is set (S93). If the big hit flag is set, the CPU 56 confirms “suddenly probable big hit / small” in the variation pattern determination table. “Win” is selected (S96). Then, the process proceeds to S101. If the small hit flag is not set, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the time reduction flag indicating that the time reduction state is set (S97). The time reduction flag is set when the gaming state is shifted to the time reduction state (including the time of shifting to the probability change state), and is reset when the time reduction state is ended. If the time reduction flag is set, the CPU 56 selects “displacement (time reduction)” in the variation pattern determination table (S98). Then, the process proceeds to S101. If the time reduction flag is not set, the CPU 56 selects “out of” in the variation pattern determination table (S99). Then, the process proceeds to S101.

  Next, the CPU 56 reads random 3 (random number for variation pattern determination) from the random number buffer area (first reserved storage buffer or second reserved storage buffer) (S101), and the variation selected in S93, S94, S96, S98 or S99. The variation pattern is determined by referring to the field of the pattern determination table (S102). Next, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit an effect control command (variation pattern command) corresponding to the determined variation pattern to the effect control microcomputer 100 (S103). Further, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit the symbol variation designation command indicated by the special symbol pointer to the effect control microcomputer 100 (S104), and starts the variation of the special symbol (S105). Further, a value corresponding to the variation time of the selected variation pattern is set in the variation time timer formed in the RAM 55 (S106). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the display result designation command transmission process (S302) (S107).

  FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing display result designation command transmission processing. In the display result designation command transmission process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the big hit flag is set (S110), and if not set, proceeds to S116. When the big hit flag is set, if the big hit type is a probable big hit, control is performed to transmit a display result 3 designation command (S111, S112). The jackpot type can be determined by checking the data set in the jackpot type buffer in S74. In addition, when the big hit type is suddenly probable big hit, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a display result 4 designation command (S113, S114). Further, when neither the probability variation big hit nor the sudden probability variation big hit is present (normally, when it is a big hit), the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a display result 2 designation command (S115). When the big hit flag is not set, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the small hit flag is set (S116). If it is set, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a display result 5 designation command (S117). ). When the small hit flag is not set (when it is off), the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a display result 1 designation command (S118). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special symbol changing process (S303) (S119).

  FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing the special symbol changing process. In the special symbol changing process, the CPU 56 subtracts 1 from the variable time timer (S125), and when the variable time timer times out (S126), the value of the special symbol process flag is set to a value corresponding to the special symbol stop process (S304). Update (S127). If the variable time timer has not timed out, the process ends.

  FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing the special symbol stop process. In the special symbol stop process, the CPU 56 performs control to derive and display the stop symbol on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b (S131). Further, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a symbol confirmation designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (S132). If the big hit flag is not set, the process proceeds to S140 (S133). On the other hand, if the big hit flag is set, the CPU 56 resets the probability variation flag and the hourly flag if set (S134), and performs control for transmitting the big hit start designation command to the production control microcomputer 100. Perform (S135). Further, the CPU 56 performs control for transmitting a normal state designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (S136). In addition, the CPU 56 sets a value corresponding to the jackpot display time (time for notifying that the jackpot has occurred) to the jackpot display time timer (corresponding to a jackpot control timer described later) (S137). Further, the CPU 56 sets the number of times of opening (for example, 15 times in the case of a normal big hit or a probable big hit, twice in the case of a sudden probable big hit) in the big prize opening number counter (S138). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special winning opening opening pre-processing (S305) (S139).

  In S140, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the probability variation flag is set. If not, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the time reduction flag is set (S141). When the time reduction flag is set (that is, when only time reduction control is performed without the probability variation control), the value of the time reduction counter indicating the number of times the special symbol can be changed in the time reduction state is decremented by 1 (S142). ). Next, if the value of the time reduction counter after subtraction is 0 (S144), the CPU 56 resets the time reduction flag (S145). Moreover, control which transmits a normal state designation | designated command with respect to the microcomputer 100 for effect control is performed (S146).

  Next, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the small hit flag is set (S147), and if it is set, transmits a small hit / sudden probability sudden change big hit start designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (S148). . Further, a value corresponding to the small hit display time (time for notifying that a small hit has occurred) is set in the small hit display time timer (S149). Further, the number of times of opening (for example, 2 times) is set in the special winning opening opening number counter (S150). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the small hit start pre-processing (S308) (S151). If the small hit flag is not set, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special symbol normal process (S300) (S152).

  FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing the pre-opening process for the special winning opening. In the pre-opening process for the big winning opening, the CPU 56 decrements the value of the big winning opening control timer by 1 (S401). Then, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the special winning opening control timer is 0 (S402). If the value is not 0, the process is terminated. When the value is 0, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit the special winning opening open designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (S403). Then, the CPU 56 is set with a first big prize opening flag indicating that the first big prize opening is open or a second big prize opening release flag indicating that the second big prize opening is open. (S404), if neither is set, the first big prize opening release flag is set (S406a). Further, if any one of them is set and the first big winning opening release flag is not set (N in S405), that is, if the second big winning opening release flag is set, the second big winning prize is set. The mouth opening flag is reset and the first grand prize opening opening flag is set (S408). Then, the solenoid 21a is driven to perform control for opening the first big prize opening (S407). On the other hand, if the first big winning opening release flag is set in S405, the first big winning opening release flag is reset and the second big winning opening release flag is set (S408). Then, the solenoid 21b is driven to perform control for opening the second prize winning opening (S409). Thereafter, the CPU 56 decrements the value of the release number counter by −1 (S410). In addition, a value corresponding to the maximum time that the big prize opening can be opened in each round is set in the big prize opening control timer (S411). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the step special winning opening opening process (S306) (S412).

  FIG. 25 and FIG. 26 are flowcharts showing the special winning opening opening process. In the special winning opening opening process, the CPU 56 decrements the value of the special winning opening control timer by 1 (S420). Then, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the value of the special winning opening control timer has become 0 (S421). When it is not 0, it is confirmed whether or not the count switch 23 is turned on (S432). If it is not turned on, the process is terminated. When the count switch 23 is turned on, the value of the winning number counter for counting the number of winning game balls to the big winning opening is incremented by 1 (S433). Then, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the winning number counter is a predetermined number (for example, 10) (S434), and if not, the process is terminated.

  When the value of the big winning opening control timer is 0, or when the value of the winning number counter is a predetermined number, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the first big winning opening opening flag is set. (S435a) If it is set, control is performed to drive the solenoid 21a to close the first big prize opening (S435b), and if it is not set, the solenoid 21b is driven to set the second large prize port. Control to close the winning opening is performed (S435c). Then, the value of the winning number counter is cleared (S436). Next, the CPU 56 confirms the value of the opening number counter (S438). If the value of the number-of-opening counter is not 0, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a designation command after opening the big prize opening to the effect control microcomputer 100 (S439). Then, a value corresponding to the time (interval period) until the next round is started is set in the special winning opening control timer (S440), and the value of the special symbol process flag is a value corresponding to the pre-opening process for the special winning opening. (S441). On the other hand, when the value of the number-of-opens counter is 0, the CPU 56 sets a big hit end time (time for notifying the big hit game end) in the big prize opening control timer (S442), and sets the value of the special symbol process flag. It is updated to a value corresponding to the big hit end process (S443).

  FIG. 27 is a flowchart showing the jackpot end process (S307) in the special symbol process. In the jackpot end process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the jackpot end display timer is set (S160). If it is set, the process proceeds to S164. When it is not set, the big hit flag is reset (S161), and a control for transmitting the big hit end designation command is performed (S162). Then, a value corresponding to the time (big hit end display time) during which the big hit end display is performed in the effect display device 9 is set in the big hit end display timer (S163), and the processing is ended.

  In S164, 1 is subtracted from the value of the big hit end display timer. Then, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the jackpot end display timer is 0 (whether the jackpot end display time has elapsed) (S165), and if not, ends the processing. If the jackpot end display time has elapsed, the CPU 56 checks whether the jackpot type is a probability change big hit or a sudden probability change big hit (S166). If neither of them (that is, if it is a normal big hit), the CPU 56 sets a time reduction flag (S167). Further, the CPU 56 sets a predetermined value (for example, 100) in the time reduction counter for counting the time reduction (S168). In addition, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a time reduction state designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (S169). Then, the process proceeds to S173. If the big hit type is a probability change big hit or a sudden probability change big hit, the CPU 56 sets a probability change flag and a time reduction flag (S170, S171). Further, control is performed to transmit the probability change state designation command to the production control microcomputer 100 (S172). Thereafter, the CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the special symbol normal process (S173).

  Next, the prize ball process (S30) in the main process will be described. First, payout control signals (connection signal, prize ball information) and payout control commands transmitted and received between the main board 31 and the payout control board 37 will be described. In this embodiment, a connection signal and prize ball information are transmitted and received as control signals between the main board 31 and the payout control board 37 in order to perform various controls relating to payout control and the like. The connection signal is output when the main board 31 rises (when the game control means starts the game control process). The connection signal indicates that the main board 31 has stood up and that a prize ball can be paid out. Note that the connection signal is ready to be output by setting an initial value in a bit corresponding to the connection signal of the output port 0 when the power is turned on (specifically, the connection signal is output by the processing of S31). The prize ball information is information for notifying the main board 31 that ten prize balls have been detected each time ten prize balls are paid out on the payout control board 37 side. . The payout control command is composed of 8-bit data (binary 8-digit data), and is output as a control command indicating predetermined contents depending on the contents of the set 8-bit data.

  The award ball number command is a control command for notifying the number of game balls (0 to 15) for which a payout request is made, and is a control command transmitted by the game control microcomputer 560 based on the occurrence of a win. . The content of the prize ball number command data is “5x (H)”, that is, “0101xxx”. In this embodiment, when a game ball is detected by the start port switch 13a or the start port switch 14a, three prize balls are paid out. When a game ball is detected by the count switch 23a or the count switch 23b, 15 game balls are paid out. Perform prize ball payout. Therefore, when a game ball is detected by the start port switch 13a or the start port switch 14a, a prize ball number command “01010011” for notifying three prize balls is transmitted, and a game is played by the count switch 23a or the count switch 23b. When a ball is detected, a prize ball number command “01011111” for notifying 15 prize balls is transmitted.

  The payout error command is a control command for notifying the occurrence or elimination of a predetermined error. The content of the payout error command data is “4x (H)”, that is, “0100xxxx”. Here, with regard to “xxxx” in the second byte of the payout error command, “1” is set to “x” in the first bit (bit 0) when an unpaid number abnormality error described later occurs. . When a full tank error occurs, “1” is set to “x” of the second bit (bit 1). When a ball break error occurs, “1” is set to “x” of the third bit (bit 2). In addition, when a payout number abnormality error described later occurs, “1” is set to “x” of the fourth bit (bit 3). In this way, it is possible to notify the game control microcomputer 560 of the occurrence, elimination, and content of errors from the payout control microcomputer 370.

  Next, the contents of the prize ball process (S30) will be described. FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing an example of the prize ball processing in S30. In the prize ball process, the game control microcomputer 560 (CPU 56) executes a prize ball command output counter addition process (S501) and a prize ball counter subtraction process (S503). If a payout error command has been received, the CPU 56 stores the error information set in the payout error command in the frame state display buffer (S504, S505).

  In the winning ball command output counter addition process, a winning ball number table set in the ROM 54 is used. The number of processes (4 in this example) is set to the start address of the prize ball number table, and then the lower address of the switch-on buffer, the prize ball command output counter, prize ball designation data for designating the number of prize balls, Are set sequentially. The prize ball command output counter is a counter that counts the number of prizes received in the prize opening, and is set in the ROM 54, for example. The game control microcomputer 560 includes a corresponding prize ball command output counter for each number of prize balls (0 to 15). In this embodiment, the game control microcomputer 560 includes the prize ball command output counters 1 and 2 (corresponding to the count switch 23a and the count switch 23b) corresponding to the prize ball number “15” and the prize ball number “3”. Are provided with prize ball command output counters 3 and 4 (start port switch 13a, start port switch 14a). Each prize ball command output counter is counted up by the prize ball command output counter addition process. If the prize ball command output counters 1 and 2 set in the prize ball number table are not 0, the CPU 56 determines the number of prize balls (15) based on the prize ball designation data for designating the number of prize balls (15). Is set in the lower 4 bits of the winning ball number command, and the set winning ball number command is transmitted to the payout control microcomputer 370. The CPU 56 determines the number of prize balls (3) if the value of the prize ball command output counters 1 and 2 set in the prize ball number table is 0 and the value of the prize ball command output counters 3 and 4 is not 0. Data indicating the number of prize balls (three) is set in the lower 4 bits of the prize ball number command based on the prize ball designation data designating the number of prize balls, and the set prize ball number command is transmitted to the payout control microcomputer 370. To do.

  FIG. 29 is a flowchart showing a prize ball command output counter addition process. In the winning ball command output counter addition process, the CPU 56 sets the head address of the winning ball number table to the pointer (S5101). Then, the data at the address pointed to by the pointer (in this case, the number of processes) is loaded (S5102). Next, the CPU 56 increments the pointer value by 1 (S5103), loads the lower address of the switch-on buffer pointed to by the pointer into the lower byte of the pointer buffer (S5104), and loads the switch-on buffer pointed by the pointer buffer into the register (S5104). S5105). Next, the CPU 56 increments the value of the pointer by 1 (S5106), and loads the lower address of the prize ball command output counter pointed to by the pointer into the lower byte of the pointer buffer (S5107). Next, the CPU 56 increments the value of the pointer by 1 (S5108), and calculates the logical product of the contents of the switch-on buffer loaded in the register and the prize ball designation data pointed to by the pointer (S5109).

  If the calculation result in S5109 is 0, that is, if the detection signal of the switch to be inspected is not in the ON state, the CPU 56 decreases the number of processes by 1 (S5114), and if the number of processes is 0, the process ends. If the number of processes is not 0, the process returns to S5103 (S5115). If the calculation result in S5109 is not 0, that is, if the detection signal of the switch to be inspected is on, the CPU 56 sets the number of prize balls corresponding to the prize ball command output counter pointed to by the pointer in the prize ball number command. At the same time, control is performed to transmit a prize ball number command in which the number of prize balls is set to the payout control microcomputer 370 (S5111). Specifically, processing for outputting a prize ball number command in which the number of prize balls is set to the transmission data register of the serial communication circuit 505 is performed.

  Next, the CPU 56 adds the value of the number of prize balls set in S5110 to the prize ball number counter (S5112), and determines whether or not the count value after addition is equal to or greater than a predetermined prize ball shortage determination value (for example, 501). Confirmation is made (S5113). The prize ball number counter is a counter used for grasping the number of prize balls that have not been paid out on the game control microcomputer 560 side. The prize ball designated by the prize ball number command when the prize ball number command is transmitted. The number is added, and every time 10 winning ball payouts are detected, 10 is subtracted based on the winning ball information output from the payout control microcomputer 370. The prize ball number counter is set to “250” as an initial value in the initial setting process of the main process. When the count value of the prize ball number counter reaches a predetermined prize ball shortage determination value (for example, 501) or more, the number of prize balls that have not been paid out is excessively large. Can be determined. In addition, when it is less than a predetermined prize ball excess determination value (for example, 0), an abnormally large number of game balls are paid out in excess of the number to be paid out. Can be determined to occur.

  When the count value of the prize ball number counter is equal to or greater than a predetermined prize ball shortage determination value (for example, 501), the CPU 56 displays a prize ball error flag indicating that a prize ball shortage or a prize ball excess has occurred. It is confirmed whether it has already been set (S5114). If it is set, the process is terminated as it is. If not set, the CPU 56 sets a prize ball error flag (S5115) and controls to send a prize ball shortage error command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (S5116). Note that once the prize ball error flag is set, it is maintained without being cleared until the power supply to the gaming machine is turned on again after the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped. In this embodiment, based on the reception of a prize ball shortage error command or a prize ball excess error command, which will be described later, the effect control microcomputer 100 issues an error notification of prize ball shortage or excessive prize balls. However, for example, when a predetermined period has elapsed from the start of notification, or the value of the prize ball number counter is within a predetermined prize ball shortage determination value (for example, 501) or a predetermined prize ball excess determination value (for example, 0). When returning to, it may be possible to recover from error notification of insufficient prize balls or excessive prize balls.

  In the prize ball counter subtraction process, it is confirmed whether or not the bit of the prize ball information is on. If it is on, the CPU 56 sets a predetermined number of prize ball information confirmation (for example, 8) as the number of processes. . Then, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the prize ball information is input, and if the input of the prize ball information can be confirmed, the CPU 56 adds the value of the prize ball information on counter to 1 and the number of processes (8 in this example). Repeat until finished. Next, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the prize ball information on-counter is 6 or more. If it is 6 or more, the CPU 56 subtracts 10 from the value of the prize ball number counter. By executing the above processing, in this embodiment, it is determined that the prize ball information has been inputted on the condition that the prize ball information has been inputted 6 times or more out of the 8 confirmation processes, and 10 pieces of prize ball information are entered. The value of the prize ball number counter is decremented by 10 assuming that the prize ball has been paid out.

  Next, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the count value after subtraction is less than a predetermined prize ball excess determination value (for example, 0). If it is less than the predetermined prize ball excess determination value, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the prize ball error flag has already been set. If it has been set, the process ends. If not set, a prize ball error flag is set, and control for transmitting a prize ball excess error command to the effect control microcomputer 100 is performed.

  FIG. 30 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the frame state output process in S33a. In the frame state output process, the CPU 56 first loads the contents of the frame state display buffer (S391), and compares the loaded contents of the frame state display buffer with the contents of the previous frame state display buffer (S395). The previous frame state display buffer stores the contents of the frame state display buffer loaded when the frame state output processing is executed by the previous timer interrupt. When the contents of the loaded frame state display buffer are different from the contents of the previous frame state display buffer, the CPU 56 stores the contents of the frame state display buffer loaded in S391 in the previous frame state display buffer and stores the previous frame state display buffer. Is updated (S397), and a frame state display designation command is set based on the contents of the loaded frame state display buffer, and control is performed to transmit the frame state display designation command to the production control microcomputer 100 (S398). . Specifically, when the contents of the frame status display buffer indicate an unsettled number abnormality error (“1” is set in the first bit (bit 0)), the frame status display designation command A frame state display designation command in which “1” is set to “X” of the first bit (bit 0) of the lower 4 bits is transmitted. When a full error is indicated (“1” is set in the second bit (bit 1)), “X” in the second lower bit (bit 1) of the frame state display designation command is “X”. The frame state display designation command with “1” set in “” is transmitted. In addition, when a ball break error is indicated (“1” is set in the third bit (bit 2)), “3” (bit 2) of the lower 4 bits of the frame state display designation command is “ A frame state display designation command in which “1” is set to “X” is transmitted. When the payout number abnormality error is indicated (“1” is set in the fourth bit (bit 3)), the lower 4 bits of the lower 4 bits (bit 3) of the frame state display designation command are set. A frame state display designation command in which “1” is set to “x” is transmitted. If the error state is not indicated (the error state has been resolved) ("1" is not set in the 1st to 4th bits (bit 0 to bit 3)), the 1st bit A frame state display designation command in which “1” is not set in any of the fourth bit (bit 3) from (bit 0) is transmitted. By performing the above processing, the content of the error information set by the payout error command from the payout control microcomputer 560 is set in the frame state display designation command and transmitted to the effect control microcomputer 100.

  Next, the operation of the payout control means (the payout control microcomputer 370) will be described. In this embodiment, a signal of each phase supplied to the payout motor 289 by the stepping motor is output from the output port 0 in the payout control means. Also, from the output port 0, a PRDY signal, an EXS signal, a gaming machine error state signal indicating that the gaming machine is in an error state (out of ball error state or full tank error state), and award ball payout A prize ball signal 1 indicating that has been detected is output. Further, the output port 1 outputs each segment output signal of the error display LED 374 by 7-segment LED, and prize ball information indicating that ten prize balls have been detected. The VL signal, the BRDY signal, and the BRQ signal from the card unit 50 are input to bits 0 to 2 of the input port 0 in the payout control unit, respectively. A connection signal from the main board 31 is input to bit 4 of the input port 0. Further, the detection signal of the full switch 48, the detection signal of the ball break switch 187, and the detection signal of the payout motor position sensor 295 are input to the bits 5 to 7 of the input port 0. In addition, the operation signal from the error cancel switch 375 and the detection signal of the payout number count switch 301 are input to bits 0 and 1 of the input port 1.

  Next, the operation of the payout control means will be described. FIG. 31 is a flowchart showing main processing executed by the payout control means. In the main process, the payout control CPU 371 of the payout control microcomputer 370 first performs necessary initial settings. That is, the payout control CPU 371 first sets the interruption prohibition (S701). Next, the interrupt mode is set to interrupt mode 2 (S702), and a stack pointer designation address is set to the stack pointer (S703). Next, the payout control CPU 371 sets a built-in device register (S704). In the process of setting the internal device register in S704, the CTC is set. In this embodiment, one channel of the built-in CTC is used in the timer mode. Therefore, register setting for setting the channel to be used to timer mode, register setting for permitting interrupt generation, and register setting for setting an interrupt vector are performed. The interrupt by the channel is used as a timer interrupt. For example, when it is desired to generate a timer interrupt every 1 ms, a value corresponding to 1 ms is set as an initial value in a predetermined register (time constant register).

  In step S <b> 704, the payout control CPU 371 initializes the priority of interrupt processing executed in response to the interrupt request from the serial communication circuit 380. Also, the payout control CPU 371 sets the serial communication circuit 380. In this case, the payout control CPU 371 sets the baud rate of the receiving circuit, sets the receiving mode (either 8-bit or 9-bit data format), and sets the parity (the presence / absence of parity, even parity or odd parity). Set). In addition, the control registers of the receiving circuit are initialized and the status registers are initialized. Also, the payout control CPU 371 sets the baud rate of the transmission circuit, sets the transmission mode (either 8-bit or 9-bit data format), and sets the parity (the presence / absence of parity, even parity or odd parity) )I do. Also, each control register of the transmission circuit is initialized.

  The interrupt vector set for the channel set to the timer mode (channel 3 in this embodiment) corresponds to the start address of the timer interrupt process. Specifically, the start address of the timer interrupt process is specified by the value set in the I register and the interrupt vector. In the timer interruption process, a payout control process for controlling the payout means (including at least a process of driving the ball payout device 97 in accordance with a command signal relating to award ball payout from the main board, and a ball payout device 97 in response to a ball lending request. A process for driving the above may be included). In this embodiment, the interruption mode 2 is also set in the payout control microcomputer 370. Therefore, an interrupt process based on counting up the built-in CTC can be used. Also, an interrupt processing start address can be set according to the interrupt vector sent by the CTC. An interrupt based on the count-up of CTC channel 3 (CH3) is an interrupt that occurs when the CPU internal clock (system clock) counts down and the register value becomes “0”, and is used as a timer interrupt. .

  Next, the payout control CPU 371 sets the RAM in an accessible state (S705), and performs a RAM clear process (S706). In addition, initial values are set in the flags and counters of the RAM area (S707). Note that the processing in S707 includes processing for setting an unpaid-off number counter initial value in the unpaid-out number counter. Further, the processing of S707 includes processing for clearing an error flag indicating a detection state such as a payout number abnormality error. In this embodiment, when it is determined that there is a payout number error and the payout number error error specification bit is set in the error flag, the payout number error error specification bit is not cleared until the power is reset. Although it does not recover from the number abnormal error, specifically, when the process of S707 is executed when the power is turned on, the payout number abnormal error designation bit in the error flag is cleared and the payout number abnormal error is recovered.

  The payout control CPU 371 executes serial communication circuit setting processing for initial setting of the serial communication circuit 380 (S708). In this case, the payout control CPU 371 causes the serial communication circuit 380 to serially communicate with the game control microcomputer 560 according to the same process as the serial communication circuit setting process (see S15a) performed by the CPU 56 of the game control microcomputer 560. Set up. Further, as described above, a part of the initial setting of the serial communication circuit 380 is executed in the setting process of the built-in device register in S704. Note that all the setting processing of the serial communication circuit 380 may be performed by the serial communication circuit setting processing of S708. Since the interruption is prohibited in S701 of the initial setting process, the interruption is permitted before the initialization process is finished (S709). Thereafter, a loop process for monitoring the occurrence of a timer interrupt is entered. As described above, in this embodiment, the built-in CTC of the payout control microcomputer 370 is set so as to repeatedly generate a timer interrupt. When a timer interrupt occurs, the payout control CPU 371 of the payout control microcomputer 370 executes a timer interrupt process.

  FIG. 32 is a flowchart showing an example of timer interrupt processing executed by the payout control means. In the timer interrupt process, the payout control CPU 371 first performs a switch check process (S751). In the switch check process, the payout control CPU 371 performs a process of confirming the on / off state of the payout number count switch 301 and the error release switch 375 based on the input of the input port 1. Next, the payout control CPU 371 performs an input determination process (S752). The input determination process is a process of detecting the state of bits 0 to 7 of the input port 0 and reflecting the detection result in a predetermined 1 byte of the RAM (referred to as a sensor input state flag). The payout control CPU 371 checks the state of the sensor input state flag instead of directly checking the state of the input port when performing control based on the state of bits 0 to 7 of the input port 0.

  Next, the payout control CPU 371 executes a prepaid card unit control process for communicating with the card unit 50 (S753). Next, the payout control CPU 371 executes main control communication processing for communicating with game control means of the main board 31 (S754). Next, the payout control CPU 371 performs control for paying out the lent balls in response to a ball lending request from the card unit 50, and performs control for paying out the number of prize balls indicated by the prize ball number command from the main board 31. The payout control process to be performed is executed (S755). Next, a payout motor control process is executed (S756). In the payout motor control process, when the payout motor 289 is to be driven, a process for outputting the patterns of the payout motors φ1 to φ4 to the output port 0 is performed.

  Next, the payout control CPU 371 executes error processing for detecting various errors (S757). Next, a prepaid card unit error control process for performing error control of the card unit 50 is executed (S758). Next, an information output process for outputting prize ball information to the main board 31 and outputting a gaming machine error state signal to the outside is executed (S759). In the information output process, the payout control CPU 371, for example, counts the number of game balls paid out by paying out a winning ball if the payout number counting switch 301 is in an ON state (a state where payout by a winning ball is detected). 1 is added to the value of the prize ball payout counter for this. If the value of the added prize ball payout counter is equal to or greater than a predetermined prize ball information output determination value (10 in this example), the prize ball payout counter is reset and prize ball information is output. One is added to the value of the prize ball information output number counter for counting the number of times the condition is satisfied. If the value of the prize ball information output frequency counter is not 0, the payout control CPU 371 subtracts 1 from the value of the prize ball information output frequency counter and outputs the prize ball information to the game control microcomputer 560. I do. Specifically, a process of setting output data to the prize ball information output bit of the output port 1 is performed.

  Next, the payout control CPU 371 executes display control processing for performing a predetermined display on the error display LED 374 according to the result of the error processing (S760). In this embodiment, when various errors are detected in error processing described later, an error bit corresponding to the detected error is set. In the display control process of S760, the payout control CPU 371 performs a predetermined display on the error display LED 374 based on the error bit.

  In this embodiment, a RAM area (output port 0 buffer, output port 1 buffer) corresponding to the output state of the output port is provided. However, the payout control CPU 371 includes an output port 0 buffer and an output port. The contents of the port 1 buffer are output to the output port (S761: output processing). The output port 0 buffer and the output port 1 buffer are updated by the payout motor control process (S756), the prepaid card control process (S753), the main control communication process (S754), the information output process (S759), and the display control process (S760). Is done.

  FIG. 33 is a flowchart showing the main control communication process of S754. In the main control communication process, the payout control microcomputer 370 (the payout control CPU 371) executes a main control command reception process (S740). Then, the payout control CPU 371 loads an error flag and checks whether or not the payout number abnormality error designation bit is set (S7410). If set, the main control communication payout number error output bit (specifically bit 3) of the conversion buffer is set (S7411).

  Next, the payout control CPU 371 checks whether or not the ball breakage error designation bit is set (S7412). If it is set, the ballout output bit for main control communication of the conversion buffer (specifically, the bit) 2) is set (S7413). Next, the payout control CPU 371 checks whether or not a full tank error designation bit is set (S7414). If it is set, the full output bit for main control communication of the conversion buffer (specifically bit 1). ) Is set (S7415). Next, the payout control CPU 371 checks whether or not the unpaid number abnormality error designation bit is set (S7416), and if set, the unpaid number abnormality error output bit for main control communication of the conversion buffer ( Specifically, bit 0) is set (S7417). Then, the payout control CPU 371 sets the content of the conversion buffer in the payout error command, and performs control to transmit the set payout error command to the game control microcomputer 560 (S7418). Specifically, it performs processing to set the control status (error status such as a payout number error error, out of ball error, full tank error, unpaid number error error, etc.) in the lower 4 bits of the payout error command, and serial communication circuit Processing for outputting a payout error command to the transmission register 380 is performed.

  FIG. 34 is a flowchart showing a main control command reception process in the main control communication process. In the main control command reception process, the payout control CPU 371 first checks whether or not a connection signal is input (S7401). If not input, the payout control CPU 101 initializes the transmission circuit and the reception circuit of the serial communication circuit 380 (S7402). If the connection signal is input, the payout control CPU 371 checks whether or not the reception error flag is set in the status register of the serial communication circuit 380 (S7407), and if set, the serial communication circuit 380. Is initialized (S7408). Then, the payout control CPU 371 sets the main control communication error designation bit of the error flag (S7409). If the reception error flag is not set, the payout control CPU 371 loads the contents of the reception buffer (S7410) and confirms whether or not a prize ball number command is received. In this embodiment, the content of the prize ball number command should be at least “51 (H)” and less than “60 (H)”. Accordingly, the payout control CPU 371 determines that the content of the loaded reception buffer is equal to or greater than the prize ball number command minimum value “51 (H)” and less than the prize ball number command maximum determination value “60 (H)” ( S7412, S7413), it is determined that a prize ball number command is received, and the process proceeds to S7414.

  Next, the payout control CPU 371 checks whether or not a prize ball payout operation or a ball lending payout operation is in progress (S7414). Specifically, the payout control CPU 371 specifies a prize ball payout operation designation bit (a bit indicating that a prize ball payout operation is in progress) or a ball lending payout operation designation bit (in a ball lending payout operation) in the payout control state flag. It is confirmed whether or not a bit indicating that is set. If the winning ball payout operation or the ball lending payout operation is in progress, the flow shifts to S7416. In this embodiment, the next award ball number command is transmitted regardless of whether or not the award ball payout operation is completed. Therefore, even if no abnormality such as a communication error has occurred, the award ball in S7414. It may be determined that the payout operation is in progress. If neither the winning ball payout operation nor the ball lending payout operation is in progress, the winning ball payout operation based on the received winning ball number command can be started immediately. In this case, the payout control CPU 371 sets the lower 4 bits of the main control communication reception buffer (that is, the number of winning balls set in the winning ball number command) in the unpaid-out number counter (S7415). The unpaid-out number counter is a counter for counting the number of unpaid out prize balls and rental balls.

  Further, if the winning ball payout operation or the ball lending payout operation is being performed, the winning ball payout operation based on the received winning ball number command cannot be started immediately. Therefore, the payout control CPU 371 sets the lower 4 bits of the main control communication reception buffer (the number of prize balls set in the prize ball number command) to the addition counter (S7416). In this embodiment, when the winning ball payout operation cannot be started immediately when the winning ball number command is received, the winning ball number specified by the winning ball number command is not immediately set in the unpaid-off number counter. Retreats to the additional counter. Therefore, the total unpaid number is obtained by the sum of the unpaid number counter value and the additional counter value. This control does not cause inconvenience in processing related to payout control, such as preventing a situation in which the number of prize balls is added to the unpaid quantity counter during the lending ball payout operation and the prize ball quantity cannot be managed accurately. It is for doing so.

  FIG. 35 is a flowchart showing the payout control process. In the payout control process, the payout control CPU 371 checks whether the value of the unpaid-off number counter is 0 when the detection signal of the payout number count switch 301 is on (S7501) (S7502). If it is 0, the payout control CPU 371 adds 1 to the value of the payout number abnormality counter for counting the cumulative number of abnormal payouts (S7503). The value of the unpaid-out number counter is 0 because the unpaid-out number to be paid out is not set in the unpaid-out number counter, so that the game ball should not be paid out. This is a case where the payout operation is performed and the payout number count switch 301 detects the payout of the game ball. For this reason, there is a possibility that the payout operation has been performed by some kind of fraud, so the payout control CPU 101 cumulatively adds 1 to the value of the payout number abnormality counter. The payout number abnormality counter is a cumulative number of payouts that exceed the number of unpaid game balls to be paid out and the number of payout shortages that did not reach the number of unpaid game balls to be paid out. It is a counter for counting. The process of S7503 corresponds to a process of cumulatively counting the excess payout in the payout number abnormality counter. Next, the payout control CPU 371 checks whether or not the value of the added payout number abnormality counter is equal to or greater than a predetermined payout number error error determination value (for example, 2000) (S7504). If it is equal to or greater than a predetermined payout number error error determination value (for example, 2000), the payout control CPU 371 determines that a payout number error has occurred, and indicates a payout number error error indicating that a payout number error has occurred. A flag is set (S7505).

  If the value of the unpaid-out number counter is not 0, the payout control CPU 371 subtracts 1 from the unpaid-out number counter, and sets a payout ball detection designation bit (that the game ball has been paid out) to the payout control state flag. Set bit) (S7506, S7507). The payout ball detection designation bit is a bit that is set when the payout number count switch 301 is turned on, and indicates that the payout number count switch 301 has detected at least one game ball during the payout operation. is there. Thereafter, the payout control CPU 371 executes one of the processes of S7511 to S7513 according to the value of the payout control code.

  FIG. 36 is a flowchart showing a payout start waiting process executed when the payout control code is 0. In the payout start waiting process, the payout control CPU 371 first checks whether or not the value of the error flag is 0 (S75101). If an error bit (one or more of all error bits in the error flag) is set, the payout control CPU 371 controls not to execute the subsequent processing. In this embodiment, when the process of S75101 is executed, it is determined that a full tank error has occurred and the full tank error designation bit of the error bit is set, so that the process does not proceed to S75102 and subsequent processes. Controlled and controlled to a payout stop state.

  If the value of the error flag is 0, the payout control CPU 371 loads the payout control state flag (S75103) if the BRDY signal is input (Y in S75102) and determines whether or not a ball lending request is being made. Is confirmed (S75104). Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not a ball lending request specifying bit (a bit indicating that a ball lending request is being made) is set in the payout control state flag. If a ball lending request is being made (that is, when a ball lending payout operation is started), the payout control CPU 371 resets the ball lending request specifying bit in the payout control status flag (S75105) and also sets the payout control status flag. The designated bit during the ball lending / dispensing operation is set (S75016). Next, a predetermined ball lending number (25 in this example) is set in the unpaid number counter (S75107), and a predetermined ball lending number (25 in this example) is set in the payout motor rotation number buffer (S75108). Then, the process proceeds to S75113. The payout motor rotation frequency buffer is referred to in the payout motor control process (S756). That is, in the payout motor control process, control is performed to rotate the payout motor 289 by the number of rotations corresponding to the value set in the payout motor rotation frequency buffer.

  If the BRDY signal is not input, the payout control CPU 371 checks whether or not the value of the unpaid-out number counter is 0 (S75109). ), The value of the unpaid-out number counter is set in the payout motor rotation number buffer (S75110). In this case, since the number of prize balls designated by the received prize ball number command should be set in the unpaid quantity counter, the prize ball number is rotated by the dispensing motor to start the prize ball dispensing operation. Performs processing to set the number of times buffer. If the value of the unpaid number counter is 0 (Y in S75109), the payout control CPU 371 checks whether the value of the extra counter is 0 (S75109a). The value is added to the unpaid number counter (S75109b), and the addition counter is reset (S75109c). Then, the process proceeds to S75110.

  When the number of prize balls is set in the payout motor rotation frequency buffer in S75110, the payout control CPU 371 loads a payout control state flag (S75111), and sets a designation bit during a prize ball payout operation in the payout control state flag (S75112). . Then, the process proceeds to S75113. In S75113, the payout control CPU 371 sets a value in the payout motor control code for selecting the process executed in the payout motor control process according to the payout motor activation process. Thereby, in the payout motor control process of S756, a payout motor starting process for starting the payout motor 289 is executed, and a lending ball payout operation or a prize ball payout operation is started. Then, the payout control CPU 371 sets a value “1” indicating the payout motor stop waiting process in the payout control code (S75114), and ends the process.

  In the payout motor stop waiting process (S7512), the payout control CPU 371 first loads the payout control state flag, and if the payout operation is completed, resets the payout operation end designation bit of the payout control state flag. A payout motor stop waiting process setting table 2 used for setting a payout passage monitoring time, which will be described later, is set. Next, it is confirmed whether or not the payout ball number inspected designation bit is set in the payout control state flag. The designated number of paid-out balls inspected is a bit indicating that the detection of the number-of-payout counting switch 301 has been determined at the end of the payout operation by the payout motor 289 (at the end of normal operation). If the payout ball number inspected designation bit is not set, the payout control CPU 371 sets a payout motor stop waiting process setting table. That is, the payout control CPU 371 replaces the set table with a payout motor stop waiting process setting table.

  Next, the payout control CPU 371 sets a value “2” indicating a payout passing waiting process in the payout control code. Then, the payout control CPU 371 sets the payout passing monitoring time in the payout control timer based on the set table. The payout passing monitoring time is a time that has a margin in the time from when the last payout ball is paid out by the payout motor 289 until it passes through the payout number count switch 301. In this embodiment, when the payout ball number inspected bit is set, 1 second is set as the payout passing monitoring time based on the set payout motor stop waiting process setting table 2. In addition, when the payout ball number inspected bit is not set, 0.6 seconds is set as the payout passage monitoring time based on the replaced payout motor stop waiting process setting table.

  In the payout passing waiting process (S7513), if the payout control timer has timed out, the payout control CPU 371 loads an error flag, and issues a payout number error error specification bit, a payout switch error detection error 1 specification bit, or a payout switch. If any one of the error detection error 2 specification bits is set, it is determined that the payout operation cannot be continued any more, and the bits other than the ball rental request specifying bit and the payout operation end specifying bit of the payout control status flag are reset. At the same time, a value “0” indicating the payout start waiting process is set in the payout control code, and the process ends. On the other hand, if neither is set, the payout control CPU 371 checks whether or not the value of the unpaid number counter is 0. If the value of the unpaid number counter is 0, the payout control CPU 371 operates normally. Assuming that the payout operation has ended, reset the bits other than the ball rental request specifying bit and the payout operation end specification bit of the payout control status flag, and set the value “0” indicating the payout start waiting process in the payout control code The process ends.

  If the value of the unpaid-out number counter is not 0, the payout control CPU 371 loads the error flag, and if the ball breakage error designation bit or the full tank error designation bit is set, the process ends. If neither is set, the payout control CPU 371 checks whether or not the payout case error designation bit is set in the error flag. If it is set, the payout control state flag is loaded and the number of payout balls In addition to setting the inspected designation bit, the 1 designation bit during re-payout operation (bit indicating execution of the first re-payout operation) and the 2 designation bit during re-payout operation (second re-payout operation) The execution bit is reset, and the process ends. If the payout case error designation bit is not set, the 2 designation bit during re-payout operation and the 1 designation bit during re-payout operation of the payout control state flag are confirmed.

  When the 2 designation bit during the re-payout operation and the 1 designation bit during the re-payout operation are not set, the payout control CPU 371 is performing a re-payout operation on the payout control state flag in order to execute the first re-payout operation. Set 1 designation bit. If the payout ball number inspected designation bit of the payout control state flag is set, the process proceeds to a repayout process. On the other hand, if the specified number of balls to be inspected is not set, the payout control CPU 371 adds the value of the unpaid number counter to the payout number abnormality counter. This process corresponds to a process of cumulatively counting the number of shortage payouts in the payout number abnormality counter. Next, the payout control CPU 371 sets a payout number error error flag if the value of the added payout number error counter is equal to or greater than a predetermined payout number error error determination value. Thereafter, the process proceeds to re-payout processing.

  If the 1 designation bit is set during the re-payout operation, the payout control CPU 371 proceeds to re-payout processing if the payout ball detection designation bit is set. If not set, in order to execute the second re-payout operation, 2 designation bits during re-payout operation are set in the payout control state flag, and 1 is added to the value of the payout number abnormality counter. Then, the process proceeds to re-payout processing. Further, when the 2 designation bit is set during the re-payout operation, the payout control CPU 371 proceeds to a re-payout process if the payout ball detection designation bit is set. If not set, the payout control CPU 371 adds 1 to the payout number abnormality counter and sets a payout case error designation bit in the error flag. Then, a predetermined time (for example, 2 minutes) is set in the re-payout waiting timer, and the process ends. Note that the set re-payout waiting timer is measured by error processing to be described later (see S7710), and based on the time-out of the re-payout timer, the payout case error designation bit of the error flag is reset (S7711, S7712). reference). By executing such processing, in this embodiment, after the payout case error is detected, the error state is automatically recovered based on the fact that two minutes have passed.

  In the re-payout process, the payout control CPU 371 sets the re-payout operation number (1 in this example) in the payout motor rotation frequency buffer. Next, the payout ball detection designation bit is reset. Also, a value corresponding to the payout motor activation process is set in the payout motor control code for selecting the process executed in the payout motor control process. Thereafter, a value indicating a payout motor stop waiting process is set in the payout control code, and the process ends.

  Next, error processing will be described. In this embodiment, when no error has occurred, “−” is displayed on the error display LED 374. When a payout number abnormality error is detected, the payout control CPU 371 performs control for displaying “A” on the error display LED 374 as a payout number error. If a payout number abnormality error occurs, the error state is continued until the power supply of the gaming machine is reset.

  When the unpaid number counter value becomes larger than 500 while the payout operation is stopped and an unpaid number abnormality error is detected, the payout control CPU 371 displays an error indicator LED 374 as “unpaid number abnormality error”. Control to display "0" is performed. When the connection signal from the main board 31 is turned off, the payout control CPU 371 performs control to display “1” on the error display LED 374 as a main board non-connection error. Further, when a disconnection of the payout number count switch 301 or a ball clogging occurs at the payout number count switch 301, a control is performed to display “2” on the error display LED 374 as the payout switch abnormality detection error 1. The disconnection of the payout number count switch 301 or the occurrence of ball clogging in the payout number count switch 301 is determined by the detection signal of the payout number count switch 301 not being turned off. When the detection signal of the payout number count switch 301 is turned on even though the game ball is not paying out, “3” is displayed on the error display LED 374 as the payout switch abnormality detection error 2. Take control.

  If the detection signal of the payout number count switch 301 does not turn on despite the rotation abnormality of the payout motor 289 or the game ball being paid out, “4” is displayed in the error display LED 374 as a payout case error. Control to display. The specific method for detecting that the detection signal of the payout number count switch 301 is not turned on is as described above. When a serial communication error between the game control microcomputer 560 and the payout control microcomputer 370 is detected, control is performed to display “5” on the error display LED 374 as a main control communication error. . In addition, when the lower pan is full, that is, when the full switch 48 is turned on, control is performed to display “6” on the error display LED 374 as a full error. When the supply ball is insufficient, that is, when the ball break switch 187 is turned on, control is performed to display “7” on the error display LED 374 as a ball break error. Further, when the VL signal from the card unit 50 is turned off, control is performed to display “8” on the error display LED 374 as a prepaid card unit non-connection error. When communication is made with the card unit 50 at an incorrect timing, control is performed to display “9” on the error display LED 374 as a prepaid card unit communication error. The prepaid card unit communication error is detected in the prepaid card unit control process (S758).

  Among the above errors, after a payout switch abnormality detection error 2, a payout case error, or a main control communication error occurs, the error release switch 375 is operated and an operation signal is output from the error release switch 375 (becomes ON state). The payout control means returns to the state before the error occurred. As already described, the payout control CPU 371 displays an error on the error display LED 374 in the display control process of the timer interrupt process (see S760). For example, the payout control CPU 371 sets an error display “6” indicating that a full tank error has occurred in the error display LED 374 in the display control process based on the full tank error designation bit being set (see S7714). Control the display. In this embodiment, the error display LED 374 performs different display for each error type. For example, when an error occurs in any type, the same error display is performed. The display may be different, or a different display may be performed for each category of error (for example, communication error related or prepaid card unit related).

  37 and 38 are flowcharts showing the error processing in S757. In the error processing, the payout control CPU 371 first loads an error flag, and other than the error flag payout switch abnormality detection error 2 designation bit, the payout case error designation bit, the main control communication error designation bit, and the dispense number abnormality error designation bit. The error bit is reset (S7701). Next, the payout control CPU 371 checks whether or not the value of the error flag is 0 (S7702). If it is 0, the process proceeds to S7710. If the value of the error flag is not 0 (that is, if the dispensing switch abnormality detection error 2 designation bit, the dispensing case error designation bit, the main control communication error designation bit, or the dispensing number abnormality error designation bit is set) The control CPU 371 checks whether or not the operation signal is turned on from the error release switch 375 (S7703). When the operation signal is turned on, the error recovery time is set in the pre-error recovery timer (S7709). The error recovery time is the time from when the error release switch 375 is operated until the actual return from the error state to the normal state.

  If the operation signal from the error release switch 375 is not on, the value of the timer before error recovery is confirmed (S7704). If the value of the timer before error recovery is 0, that is, if the timer before error recovery is not set, the flow proceeds to S7710. If the pre-error return timer is set, the value of the pre-error return timer is decremented by -1 (S7705). The error 2 designation bit, the payout case error designation bit, and the main control communication error designation bit are reset (S7707), and if set, the re-payout waiting timer is reset (S7708). Then, the process proceeds to S7710. If the pre-error recovery timer has not timed out, the flow proceeds to S7713. When the processing of S7707 is executed, there may be an error bit that is not in the set state among the payout switch abnormality detection error 2 designation bit, the payout case error designation bit, and the main control communication error designation bit. There is no problem even if the error bit that is not in the set state is reset. As described above, in this embodiment, when an error that causes the bits of the payout switch abnormality detection error 2, the payout case error, and the main control communication error to occur occurs, the error release switch 375 is pressed. The error is canceled.

  In S7710, if set, the payout control CPU 371 subtracts 1 from the value of the re-payout waiting timer, and checks whether the re-payout wait timer after the subtraction has timed out (S7711). If the timeout has occurred, the payout control CPU 371 resets the payout case error designation bit of the error flag (S7712). Then, the process proceeds to S7713. In this embodiment, when the payout case error is detected and the payout detection error designation bit is set by executing the processes of S7707 and S7712, the error release switch 375 has been pressed (exactly The error is automatically canceled on the condition that the error is canceled on the condition that the time before error recovery has passed) and on the condition that a predetermined time (2 minutes in this example) has elapsed after the detection of the payout case error. There are cases. The payout number abnormality error is not canceled unless it is reset once the power supply to the gaming machine is reset. When the processing of S7707 and S7712 is executed and the payout case error designation bit is reset, when the payout control code is “2” (corresponding to the execution of the payout passing waiting process), a retry operation for game ball payout is performed. Be started. That is, when the payout control process of S755 is executed next and the payout passage waiting process of S7513 is executed, the repayout process is performed again.

  As described above, the payout control means is used for paying out a game ball when the payout number counting switch 301 detects no game ball even though the ball payout device 97 pays out a game ball. After performing the corrected payout control that causes the ball payout device 97 to execute the retry operation for a predetermined number of times (for example, twice) as a limit, the payout number count switch 301 has detected no game balls. When it is detected, the control state related to payout is shifted to an error state, and when an error release signal is output from the error release switch 375 in the error state or a payout case error is detected, a predetermined time (2 in this example) is detected. The corrected payout control restarting process for performing the corrected payout control again is executed on the condition that a minute has passed. Further, even during re-payout processing in an error state (specifically, during re-payout processing before setting a payout case error and during re-payout processing after the error release switch 375 is pressed), S7501 and S7502 shown in FIG. , S7506 is executed. That is, even when an error relating to payout occurs, if the game ball passes the payout number count switch 301, the value of the unpaid-out number counter is subtracted. Therefore, the value of the unpaid-out number counter when returning from the error state is a value reflecting the number of game balls actually paid out. That is, even if an error related to payout occurs, the number of game balls actually paid out can be accurately managed.

  In S7713, the payout control CPU 371 checks the detection signal of the full tank switch 48. If the detection signal of the full tank switch 48 is output (if it is in the ON state), the full tank error designation bit in the error flag is set (S7714). Also, the payout control CPU 371 checks whether or not the payout operation is stopped (S7714a). For example, in S75101 of the payout start waiting process, if the error flag is not 0, the subsequent process is not performed. Therefore, whether or not the payout operation is stopped can be confirmed based on whether or not the error flag is 0. it can. When the payout operation is stopped, the payout control CPU 371 checks whether or not the sum of the value of the extra counter and the value of the unpaid number counter is larger than a predetermined value (500 in this example) (S7714b). If it is larger than the predetermined value, the unpaid number abnormality designation bit in the error flag is set (S7714c). Further, the payout control CPU 371 checks the detection signal of the ball break switch 187 (S7715). If the detection signal of the ball break switch 187 is output (if it is ON), the ball break error designation bit in the error flag is set (S7716). Further, the payout control CPU 371 checks the state of the connection signal from the main board 31 (S7717), and if the connection signal is not output (if it is in the off state), sets the main board unconnected error designation bit. (S7718).

  Further, the payout control CPU 371 checks the value of the switch timer corresponding to the payout number count switch 301 among the switch timers in which the state of the detection signal of each switch is set, and the value is the switch on maximum time (for example, “ 250 ") (S7719), the bit of the payout switch abnormality detection error 1 is set in the error flag (S7720). It should be noted that the value of each switch timer is incremented by 1 when the state of the input port to which the detection signal of each switch is input is switched on in the input determination process of S752, and is cleared by 0 when it is off. Accordingly, the fact that the value of the switch timer corresponding to the payout number count switch 301 exceeds the switch on maximum time means that the payout number count switch 301 is in the on state exceeding the switch on maximum time. Then, it is determined that the game ball is clogged at the disconnection of the payout number count switch 301 or at the portion of the payout number count switch 301.

  In addition, when the value of the switch timer corresponding to the payout number count switch 301 becomes a switch-on determination value (for example, “4”) (S7721), the payout control CPU 371 loads the payout control state flag and awards. It is confirmed whether or not a ball payout operation or a ball lending payout operation is in progress (S7722, S7723). If the winning ball payout operation or the ball lending payout operation is not in progress, the payout control CPU 371 sets the bit of the payout switch abnormality detection error 2 in the error flag, assuming that the game ball has passed the payout number count switch 301 illegally. (S7724). The payout control CPU 371 sets a payout number error error flag if the value of the payout number error counter is equal to or greater than a predetermined payout number error error determination value (S7725, S7726). Next, the payout control CPU 371 resets the prepaid card unit error flag for setting the error state of the prepaid card unit 50 (S7727). The payout control CPU 371 checks the input state of the VL signal from the card unit 50 (S7728). If the VL signal is not input (if it is in the off state), the prepaid card unit error flag is prepaid. The card unit unconnected error designation bit is set (S7729).

  Next, the operation of the effect control means will be described. FIG. 39 is a flowchart showing main processing executed by the effect control microcomputer 100 (specifically, the effect control CPU 101) as effect control means mounted on the effect control board 80. The effect control CPU 101 starts executing the main process when the power is turned on. In the main processing, first, initialization processing is performed for clearing the RAM area, setting various initial values, and initializing a timer for determining the activation control activation interval (for example, 2 ms) (S601). Thereafter, the effect control CPU 101 proceeds to a loop process for monitoring the timer interrupt flag (S602). When a timer interrupt occurs, the effect control CPU 101 sets a timer interrupt flag in the timer interrupt process. If the timer interrupt flag is set in the main process, the effect control CPU 101 clears the flag (S603) and executes the effect control process. In the effect control process, the effect control CPU 101 first analyzes the received effect control command and performs a process of setting a flag according to the received effect control command (command analysis process: S604). Next, an effect control process is performed (S605). In the effect control process, the process corresponding to the current control state (effect control process flag) is selected from the processes corresponding to the control state, and display control of the effect display device 9 is executed. Next, a random number update process for updating a count value of a counter for generating a random number such as a jackpot symbol determining random number is executed (S606). Thereafter, the process proceeds to S702.

  FIG. 40 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of a command reception buffer for storing the effect control command received from the game control microcomputer 560 of the main board 31. In this example, a command reception buffer of a ring buffer type capable of storing six 2-byte configuration effect control commands is used. Therefore, the command reception buffer is configured by a 12-byte area of reception command buffers 1 to 12. A command reception number counter indicating in which area the received command is stored is used. The command reception number counter takes a value from 0 to 11. The ring buffer format is not necessarily required. The effect control command transmitted from the game control microcomputer 560 is received by an interrupt process based on the effect control INT signal and stored in a buffer area formed in the RAM. In the command analysis process, it is analyzed which command (see FIG. 12) is the effect control command stored in the buffer area.

  41 to 42 are flowcharts showing specific examples of the command analysis processing (S704). The effect control command received from the main board 31 is stored in the reception command buffer, but in the command analysis process, the effect control CPU 101 confirms the content of the command stored in the command reception buffer. In the command analysis process, the effect control CPU 101 first checks whether or not a reception command is stored in the command reception buffer (S611). Whether it is stored or not is determined by comparing the value of the command reception number counter with the read pointer. The case where both match is the case where the received command is not stored. When the reception command is stored in the command reception buffer, the effect control CPU 101 reads the reception command from the command reception buffer (S612). Note that when read, the value of the read pointer is incremented by 2 (S613). The reason for +2 is that 2 bytes (1 command) are read at a time.

  If the received effect control command is a variation pattern command (S621), the effect control CPU 101 stores the variation pattern command in a variation pattern command storage area formed in the RAM (S622). Then, a variation pattern command reception flag is set (S623). If it is a display result designation command (S625), the received display result designation command (display result 1 designation command to display result 5 designation command) is stored in a display result designation command storage area formed in the RAM ( S626).

  If it is a symbol confirmation designation command (S627), the effect control CPU 101 sets a confirmation command reception flag (S628). If the command is the first reserved memory number designation command (S651), the second byte data (EXT data) of the first reserved memory number designation command is stored in the first reserved memory number storage area as the first reserved memory number. (S652). If the command is the second reserved memory number designation command (S654), the second byte data (EXT data) of the second reserved memory number designation command is stored in the second reserved memory number storage area as the second reserved memory number. (S655). If it is a prize ball shortage error command (S655a), the effect control CPU 101 displays predetermined prize ball shortage error notification information (for example, “a prize ball shortage error has occurred” or the like on the display screen of the effect display device 9). The character string is superimposed and displayed (S655b). If the command is an excessive prize ball error command (S655c), the effect control CPU 101 displays predetermined prize ball excess error notification information (for example, “excess prize ball error has occurred” or the like on the display screen of the effect display device 9). The character string is superimposed and displayed (S655d).

  If it is a frame state display designation command (S656), the production control CPU 101 checks whether or not the frame state display designation command indicates an unpaid number abnormality error (S657), and an unpaid number abnormality error is displayed. If so, the control for turning on the first abnormality notification LED 19a is performed (S658), and if the unpaid-out number abnormality error is not indicated, the control for turning off the first abnormality notification LED 19a is performed (S661). Next, the production control CPU 101 checks whether or not the frame state display designation command indicates a full tank error (S659), and if it indicates a full tank error, performs control to turn on the second abnormality notification LED 19b (S660). ) If no full error is indicated, control is performed to turn off the second abnormality notification LED 19b (S661).

  When it is detected that a full state is detected by executing the processing of S656 to S662, the second abnormality notification LED 19b is turned on, and after the payout operation is stopped due to the occurrence of a full tank error or the like, When it is detected that a payout number abnormality error has occurred, the first abnormality notification LED 19a is turned on. Therefore, in this embodiment, the state of the gaming machine can be notified in detail to the player or the manager of the gaming machine by performing control according to the state. In this embodiment, among the errors indicated by the frame state display designation command, a case is described in which control is performed in response to a full tank error and an unpaid number abnormality. When a frame state display designation command indicating an abnormal error is received, a corresponding control (for example, a light emitter such as an LED provided in association with each error) may be performed. Also, when the occurrence of other various errors such as a payout case error is indicated by the frame state display designation command, the corresponding control may be performed. Further, instead of providing each of the light emitters associated with each error, for example, a single light emitter for error notification may be provided, and light may be emitted in a different manner depending on the error type.

  If the received effect control command is any winning determination result designation command (S664), the effect control CPU 101 uses the winning determination result corresponding to the received winning determination result designation command as the winning determination result. In the storage buffer, the data is stored in an area associated with the total number of pending storage (S665), and a prefetch effect determining process is performed (S671). If it is any other command, the effect control CPU 101 sets a flag according to the received effect control command (S683), and proceeds to S611. In the case where it is configured to determine whether there is a big hit or variation pattern at the time of starting winning, and to transmit the determination results with different commands, it is confirmed in S664 whether or not all commands have been received. Thus, it can be determined whether or not the command transmission / reception process is normally performed.

  In this embodiment, in the production control microcomputer 100, the total reserved memory number is stored in the first reserved memory number storage area and the second reserved memory number storage area. This is obtained by adding the second reserved storage number. The first reserved memory number is updated in S652 after receiving the first reserved memory number designation command, and the second reserved memory number is updated in S655 after receiving the second reserved memory number designation command. The total pending storage number is also updated at the same timing. The winning determination result designation command is transmitted after the first reserved memory number designation command is transmitted in S1218 of the start port switch passing process, and is transmitted after the second reserved memory number designation command is transmitted in S1228. Is done. Therefore, the production control microcomputer 100 receives the winning determination result designation command after updating the total pending storage number. In step S665, the effect control CPU 101 sets, for example, the second byte data of the winning determination result designation command in the storage area associated with the total number of pending storages in the winning determination result buffer. This is because the winning determination result is specified by the second byte data (EXT data) of the winning determination result designation command (see FIG. 13). In addition, the data set in the winning determination result storage buffer is deleted in order from the previously set data in an effect symbol variation start process (such as the timing at which the process of S1800 is executed) described later. In this embodiment, the game control microcomputer 560 manages the first reserved memory number, the second reserved memory number, and the total reserved memory number, and the effect control microcomputer 100 starts from the game control microcomputer 560. Based on the transmitted command for specifying the first reserved memory number or the second reserved memory number, the first reserved memory number, the second reserved memory number, and the combined reserved memory number are recognized and recognized. Is used for processing executed by the production control microcomputer 100. That is, the total number of pending storages used in the effect control microcomputer 100 is the same as the total number of pending storages managed by the game control microcomputer 560, but is managed by the game control microcomputer 560. The total pending storage number is not used as it is, but is recognized based on the command transmitted from the game control microcomputer 560.

  FIG. 43 is an explanatory diagram of a configuration example of an area for storing a winning determination result (winning determination result storage buffer). As shown in FIG. 43, eight storage areas associated with the total number of pending storages are secured in the winning determination result storage buffer. Further, in this embodiment, based on the winning determination result, it is possible that the variable display specified by the winning determination result may be a big hit, and the hold display corresponding to the specified variable display is a normal mode. A pre-reading effect that is notified in advance is executed by changing the display mode to other display modes. Therefore, in the example shown in FIG. 43, as data related to the pre-reading effect that can be associated with the determination result at the time of winning (that is, the variable display specified by the winning determination result and the hold display corresponding to the specified variable display). A hold display mode indicating a display mode of the current hold display, a final display mode indicating which display mode is finally changed by the prefetch effect, and a prefetch effect pattern indicating a pattern of the prefetch effect to be executed And a shift counter indicating the timing at which the hold display changes when the pre-reading effect is executed (how many times the hold display is changed in this example), and the display mode of the hold display may change. The suggestion effect mode (the suggestion effect mode executed at the timing when the hold display changes in the example of FIG. 43) indicating the suggestion effect mode that suggests It is.

  The data set in the winning determination result storage buffer is deleted in order from the previously set data in the effect symbol variation start processing, and the corresponding hold display is also shifted and displayed at the same time. For example, when the effect symbol variation start process is performed once in the state shown in FIG. 43 (A), the data set in the winning determination result storage buffer shifts to the state shown in FIG. 43 (B). Further, when the effect symbol variation start process is performed twice, the data set in the winning determination result storage buffer shifts to the state shown in FIG. In the example shown in FIG. 43, it is specified whether the determination result at the time of winning is based on the first start winning or the second starting winning. Therefore, in the process of S67111 described later, the first start winning is determined. The hold display based on the second start prize and the hold display based on the second start prize are displayed in different display modes (for example, the hold display based on the first start prize is displayed in red, and the hold display based on the second start prize is displayed in blue. You may do it. In addition, in order to distinguish which winning determination result when it is configured to preferentially execute either one of the first special symbol and the second special symbol, A first winning determination result storage buffer for storing a winning determination result at the time of starting winning at the first starting winning port 13, and a second winning determination result at the time of starting winning at the second starting winning port 14 are stored. A winning determination result storage buffer may be prepared.

  Next, the prefetching effect will be described. The pre-reading effect is executed before the start of the variable display that is the target of the effect, and the variable display that is the target of the effect is a big hit or a specific change (for example, a reach effect is included). It is a notice effect that warns you. In this embodiment, as a pre-reading effect, in the summed hold storage display unit 18c, the hold display corresponding to the fluctuating display (holding storage) to be notified is different from the normal display mode (hereinafter, normal mode). An effect that is displayed by changing to a special mode, a first special mode, or a second special mode (to be described later) is performed.

  FIG. 44 is a flowchart showing prefetch effect determination processing. In the pre-reading effect determination process, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the total reserved memory number is larger than 1 (S67101), and if not, in the total reserved memory display unit 18c, a new corresponding to the latest reserved memory is obtained. A long hold display is displayed in a normal manner (S67111). For example, when the first to fifth hold displays of the combined hold storage display unit 18c are displayed, the effect control CPU 101 controls to display the sixth hold display in the normal mode. . In this embodiment, the timing for changing the display mode of the hold display as the prefetch effect is limited to the timing for shifting the hold display. Even if the presentation is not executed, but it is allowed to change the display mode (or display in a display mode other than the normal mode from the beginning) as a pre-reading effect even at the time of starting winning prize, Since the pre-reading effect can be executed, the process of S67101 is omitted. Further, even when the execution of the pre-reading effect is allowed even when the total number of reserved memories is 1, the pre-reading effect is generated based on a second pre-reading effect pattern (the display mode of the hold display changes twice) described later. Execution may be restricted.

  If the total pending storage number is greater than 1, the effect control CPU 101 uses the latest winning determination result stored in the winning determination result storage buffer (the winning determination result indicated in the received winning determination result designation command). Extraction is performed (S67102), and based on the extracted winning determination result, it is determined whether or not to perform the pre-reading effect (S67104). The effect control CPU 101 indicates that the hold display is changing to a display mode other than the normal mode (that is, the hold display is displayed in a display mode other than the normal mode in the combined hold storage display unit 18c) Whether or not to execute the prefetching effect is determined using the prefetching effect execution determination table shown in FIG. 45 according to the state of the changing flag.

  FIG. 45 is an explanatory diagram of a prefetch effect execution determination table. In the prefetch effect execution determination table, determination values corresponding to the determination items (“execute prefetch effect” or “do not execute prefetch effect”) are assigned for each determination result at the time of winning. In order to simplify the description, the ratio of the assigned determination value is shown. The effect control CPU 101 extracts, for example, a random number for determining whether or not to execute the pre-reading effect, and a decision item (“execute the pre-reading effect” or a decision value assigned to the extracted random number is assigned). “Do not execute pre-reading effect”). Therefore, in the example shown in FIG. 45, the numerical values corresponding to “execute prefetch effect” and “do not execute prefetch effect” in the determination results at the time of winning are “execute prefetch effect” or “prefetch” as the determination items. The percentage (%) at which “do not execute production” is selected. In this embodiment, in addition to the pre-reading effect execution determination table shown in FIG. 45, the final display mode determination table shown in FIG. 46 (A) and the pre-reading effect pattern determination table shown in FIGS. 46 (B) and 46 (C). 47 to 50, the pre-reading effect change timing determination table and the suggestion effect mode determination table shown in FIG. 51 are also actually assigned determination values, but are assigned to simplify the explanation. The percentage of values is shown. Also, in S67106, S67107, S67108, and S67110, which will be described later, in which these tables are used, random numbers are extracted in the same manner as in S67104, and items to which determination values that match the extracted random numbers are assigned are determined.

  In S67104, the CPU 101 for effect control shows the prefetch effect execution determination table shown in FIG. 45A (when the flag indicating that the hold display changing flag is not set) shown in FIG. 45A or FIG. 45B, depending on the state of the hold display changing flag. Select a pre-reading effect execution determination table (when the pending display changing flag is set). Then, based on the latest extracted winning determination result, the effect control CPU 101 determines whether or not to execute the prefetching effect at a ratio determined for each winning determination result in the selected prefetching effect execution determination table. To do. For example, when the winning determination result indicates “per quasi-continuous 3 supermarkets” and the on-hold display changing flag is not set, the pre-reading effect is determined to be executed at a rate of 99%, and the on-hold display is displayed. When the changing flag is set, it is determined that the prefetch effect is executed at a rate of 50%.

  The pre-reading effect execution determination table shown in FIG. 45 is characterized in that the same display result is obtained when the display result is “normal big hit” or “probability big hit” compared to the case where the display result is “out of place”. Even so, the determination value is set so that the higher the expectation level, the higher the rate at which the pre-reading effect is executed. By having such a feature, when the pre-reading effect is executed, it is expected that the ratio of occurrence of the big hit in the variable display of the notice target is increased and the big hit is expected as compared with the case where the pre-reading effect is not executed. It is possible to increase the rate at which a high reach production is performed. Therefore, it is possible to give the player a sense of expectation that the pre-reading effect is executed.

  Also, what is characteristic in the pre-reading effect execution determination table shown in FIG. 45 is that when the on-hold display changing flag is set (that is, in the total on-hold storage display unit 18c, any on-hold display is other than the normal mode). When the pending display changing flag is not set (that is, when displayed in the display mode) (that is, in the total pending storage display unit 18c, no held display is displayed in a display mode other than the normal mode) The determination value is set so that the rate at which the pre-reading effect is executed is lower than that of (when). By having such a feature, when any one of the hold displays is already displayed in a display mode other than the normal mode in the total hold storage display unit 18c, a new prefetch effect is rarely executed. Therefore, for example, when a suggestion effect suggesting the possibility that the display mode of the hold display is changed is executed, the hold displayed in a display mode other than the normal mode is displayed rather than the hold display displayed in the normal mode. The rate at which the display mode of display is further changed can be increased (that is, the display mode is changed from the special mode to the special mode by the pre-reading effect based on the second pre-reading effect pattern (to be described later) started first). Can increase the ratio). Although details will be described later, in this embodiment, the degree of expectation that is a big hit differs depending on the display mode of the hold display (strictly, in this embodiment, the final display mode If it is a special mode, the expectation level that is a big hit is 0, but the hold display of the special mode may change to the first special mode or the second special mode, so the hold display is displayed in a special mode It can be said that there is also a big hit expectation). For this reason, it is desirable for the player to change to a display mode with a higher expectation level for a big hit. Therefore, when any one of the hold displays is already displayed in a display form other than the normal form in the combined hold storage display unit 18c, the hold display is likely to change to a display form with a high expectation level that is a big hit, It is possible to give interest to the display mode of the hold display when the prefetching effect (suggesting effect) is executed, and to enhance the interest of the prefetching effect.

  In the example shown in FIG. 45, it is determined that the prefetch effect is executed at a rate of 1% even when the determination result at the time of winning is “non-reach”, but in the case of “non-reach”, the prefetch effect is determined. It may not be determined to execute. In addition, a determination value (ratio) for determining whether or not to execute the prefetch effect for each variation pattern indicated by the determination result at the time of winning is set. For example, whether or not the prefetch effect is executed for each display result. A determination value (ratio) for determining whether or not may be set.

  Next, when the CPU 101 for effect control determines to execute the prefetch effect, the process proceeds to S67106. On the other hand, when it is determined not to execute the prefetch effect, the effect control CPU 101 displays a new hold display corresponding to the latest hold storage in the normal manner in the total hold storage display unit 18c (S67111). Next, the effect control CPU 101 determines in which display mode the hold display corresponding to the fluctuating display (hold information) to be notified in the pre-read effect is finally displayed (S67106). In this embodiment, as the display mode of the hold display, in addition to the normal mode (displayed in “◯” in this example (see FIG. 57)), a special mode (“×” in “O” in this example). ), A first special mode (in this example, “△” is included in “◯”), and a second special mode (in this example, “○” is included in “○”) are provided. Yes. However, as will be described later, the hold display displayed in the special mode changes from the special mode to the first special mode or the second special mode before the variable display based on the hold information corresponding to the hold display is started. May be displayed.

  FIG. 46A is an explanatory diagram showing a final display mode determination table. In step S67106, the effect control CPU 101 uses the final display mode determination table to determine which display mode is ultimately displayed (hereinafter also referred to as the final display mode). Specifically, based on the extracted latest winning determination result, the final display mode is determined at a ratio determined for each winning determination result (variable display display result) in the final display mode determination table. For example, if the winning determination result indicates that the display result of the variable display is “out of”, the presentation control CPU 101 determines the final display mode as a special mode at a rate of 60%, and 30 % Is determined to be the first special mode, and 10% is determined to be the second special mode.

  A characteristic of the final display mode determination table shown in FIG. 46A is that the case where the display result is “ordinary big hit” or “probability big hit” is second as compared with the case where the display result is “out of place”. The determination value is set so that the ratio determined in the special mode is high. By having such a feature, when the hold display is displayed in the second special mode, the ratio of occurrence of the big hit in the variable display of the notice target is higher than when the hold display is displayed in the first special mode. can do. Therefore, it is possible to increase the degree of expectation that a big hit is displayed in the second special mode rather than the first special mode, and in which display mode the hold display is displayed when the pre-reading effect is executed. Can be focused on. In addition, when the final display mode is a special mode, the display result of the variable display is always “out”, so that the hold display displayed in the special mode is easily changed to the special mode (second pre-reading effect described later). If there is no change, the display result of the corresponding variable display is always “out of”. Therefore, when the hold display is displayed in a special mode, it is possible to give an interest to whether or not the display mode of the hold display changes, and it is possible to enhance the game entertainment.

  In the example shown in FIG. 46A, a determination value (ratio) for determining the final display mode is set for each display result indicated by the determination result at the time of winning. Different judgment values (percentage) may be set for “big hit”, and even if the display result is “normal big hit” or “probable big hit” or “suddenly probable big hit” or “small hit”, a small percentage If there is, the determination value (ratio) may be set so that the final display mode is determined as the special mode. Further, for example, as in the pre-reading effect execution determination table of FIG. 45, a determination value (ratio) for determining the final display mode may be set for each variation pattern indicated by the winning determination result. By doing so, when the hold display is displayed in the second special mode, in addition to increasing the ratio of occurrence of big hits in the variable display of the notification target, the ratio that the reach effect with high expectation is performed Can also be high. Further, when the final display mode is determined for each variation pattern indicated by the winning determination result, the final display mode is determined as the special mode because the variation pattern indicated by the winning determination result is determined by the winning determination result 2. (22) Only in the case of “non-reach”. By doing so, the hold display displayed in the special mode is likely to change to the special mode (by the pre-reading effect based on the second pre-reading effect pattern described later), but if it does not change, the corresponding variable display is reached. It will be out of place without becoming a state. Therefore, depending on whether or not the display mode of the hold display displayed in the special mode changes, a large difference can be made in the contents of the variable display and the display result, and the game entertainment can be enhanced. In this embodiment, two types of display modes, the first special mode and the second special mode, are provided as the final display mode. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and three or more types of display modes are provided. The degree of expectation may be different (the ratio selected according to the display result is different).

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 determines a prefetch effect effect pattern (hereinafter also referred to as a prefetch effect pattern) (S67107). In this embodiment, a first prefetch effect pattern, a second prefetch effect pattern, and a third prefetch effect pattern are provided as the prefetch effect patterns. In the first look-ahead effect pattern, the hold display corresponding to the notice display change display (hold information) is displayed in the normal mode at the start winning timing, and at any shift timing until the notice display change display is started. The display is changed from the normal mode to the special mode. Further, in the second look-ahead effect pattern, the hold display corresponding to the change display (hold information) to be notified is displayed in the normal mode at the start winning timing, and changes from the normal mode to the special mode at any first shift timing. The special mode is changed from the special mode to the first special mode or the second special mode at any second shift timing until the display of the subject change notice after the first shift timing is started. Further, in the third look-ahead effect pattern, the hold display corresponding to the change display (hold information) for the advance notice is displayed in a normal manner at the timing of the start winning prize, and an arbitrary shift until the change display for the advance notice starts. The display changes from the normal mode to the first special mode or the second special mode at the timing. The shift timing of the hold display is a timing at which a new change display is started. In the effect symbol change start process described later, the first hold display in the combined hold storage display unit 18c is deleted, and the remaining hold is displayed. This is the timing for shifting the display one by one and updating the total pending storage number display in the total pending storage display section 18c (specifically, the timing when S1800 is executed). For example, when the first to third hold displays of the combined hold storage display unit 18c are displayed, the first hold display is erased at the shift timing (that is, the timing when a new variable display is started). At the same time, the second hold display is shifted to the first display area, and the third hold display is shifted to the second display area.

  46B and 46C are explanatory views showing a prefetch effect pattern determination table. In step S67107, the effect control CPU 101 selects a prefetch effect pattern determination table based on the total number of pending storages, and determines a prefetch effect pattern using the selected prefetch effect pattern determination table. Specifically, when the total number of pending storages is 2, the presentation control CPU 101 selects the prefetch effect pattern determination table (total number of pending storages = 2) shown in FIG. Is greater than 2, the prefetch effect pattern determination table (total number of pending storages> 2) shown in FIG. 46C is selected. In this embodiment, since the display mode of the second look-ahead effect pattern changes in two stages (from the normal mode to the special mode and from the special mode to the special mode), the display mode is changed to the hold display corresponding to the change target display (hold information). If there is no shift timing of at least two times, the hold display is erased before all the changes are completed and cannot be executed. Therefore, when the total number of reserved memories is two (that is, when there is no shift timing more than twice in the hold display corresponding to the latest winning determination result), the determination value is set so as not to be determined as the second look-ahead effect pattern. The pre-read effect pattern determination table (total number of pending storages = 2) shown in FIG. 46B is used. The effect control CPU 101 uses the selected prefetch effect pattern determination table to determine the prefetch effect pattern at a ratio determined for each final display mode determined in S67106. For example, when the final display mode is the first special mode and the total number of reserved storage is greater than 2, the prefetch effect pattern is determined as the second prefetch effect pattern at a rate of 80%, and the first rate at the rate of 20%. Determine to 3 prefetch effect pattern.

  In this embodiment, the timing at which the display mode of the hold display changes is only the shift timing. For example, before the occurrence of the changing reach or before the first effect symbol stops, It may be possible to change at any timing such as before the production symbol stops, during reach, or when fluctuation is stopped. In this case, it is only necessary to determine not only at what shift timing the change is made but also at what timing. In addition, when the display mode of the hold display can be changed at an arbitrary timing, the second prefetch effect pattern (that is, the display mode of the hold display changes twice even when the total number of hold storage is two). ) May be allowed to execute a prefetch effect.

  46 (B) and 46 (C) are characteristic in the case where the final display mode is the second special mode compared to the case where the final display mode is the first special mode. That is, the determination value is set so that the ratio determined for the 3 prefetch effect pattern is high. By having such a feature, when a pre-reading effect is performed with the third pre-reading effect pattern (that is, when the hold display is displayed in the normal mode at the time of start winning, and then changed to the special mode and displayed) ) When a pre-reading effect is performed in the second pre-reading effect pattern (that is, when the hold display is changed from the normal mode to the special mode and is displayed after being changed from the special mode to the special mode). In comparison, the ratio of the final change to the second special mode in which the degree of expectation for the big hit is higher than that in the first special mode is higher. Accordingly, the degree of expectation that is a big hit can be varied for each prefetch effect pattern, and it is possible to focus on which prefetch effect pattern the prefetch effect is executed. In addition, not only in the example shown in this embodiment, when the prefetching effect is performed with the second prefetching effect pattern, the degree of expectation that is a big hit compared with when the prefetching effect is performed with the third prefetching effect pattern It may be so arranged that the ratio of the final change to the high second special mode is increased.

  In addition, what is characteristic in the prefetch effect pattern determination table shown in FIG. 46C is that the special mode hold display changes to the special mode rather than the third prefetch effect pattern in which the normal mode hold display changes to the special mode. The ratio of the second prefetch effect pattern pattern to be determined is high. By setting in this way, the ratio of the special mode hold display that is changed to the special mode is higher than that of the normal mode hold display. Therefore, the special mode hold display can be changed to the special mode more easily than the normal mode hold display, and the expectation when the hold display is displayed in the special mode can be enhanced.

  In this embodiment, in order to simplify the description, in the first prefetch effect pattern, the hold display is changed from the normal mode to the special mode and the hold display is performed in the second prefetch effect pattern. Is displayed in the first timing, the second timing displayed by changing from the special mode to the first special mode or the second special mode, and the third look-ahead effect pattern. Is changed from the normal mode to the first special mode or the second special mode and is displayed as an arbitrary shift timing until the display of the change subject to the notice is started. It may be timing. For example, the display mode may be changed at an arbitrary timing during the variation display (a period spanning one variation display or a plurality of variation displays) executed until the variation display of the notice target is started. In this case, for example, even when the total reserved memory number is 1, the prefetch effect can be executed, and the second prefetch effect pattern can be determined regardless of the total reserved memory number. It is displayed in the form, and the display is changed from the normal form to the special form until the variable display corresponding to the hold display (holding information) is started, and the special form is changed to the first special form or the second special form. May be displayed. In this embodiment, the three patterns of the first prefetch effect pattern to the third prefetch effect pattern will be described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and for example, the normal mode is changed to the first special mode, and the second special pattern is further changed. A pattern that changes to a mode, a pattern that changes from a normal mode to a special mode, a special mode to a first special mode, and further changes to a second special mode may be used. In other words, there are a plurality of hold display modes with different levels of expectation that will be a big hit, and the look-ahead effect in which the display mode of the hold display is changed step by step has an upper limit on the number of changes. Absent.

  When the prefetch effect pattern is determined, the effect control CPU 101 determines the change timing (in this example, the number of shifts of the hold display) for changing the display mode of the hold display corresponding to the change display (hold information) to be notified. A shift number counter for specifying the change timing (number of shifts) is set (S67108). In this embodiment, the timing at which the display mode of the hold display corresponding to the variable display (hold information) to be notified changes is an arbitrary hold display shift timing. Accordingly, by determining the change timing (the number of shifts), it is determined how many times the display mode is changed with respect to the hold display corresponding to the noticeable change display. For example, when the change timing (number of shifts) is determined to be 2, the display mode of the hold display is changed at the timing when the second shift is performed with respect to the hold display corresponding to the change display to be notified.

  47 to 50 are explanatory diagrams showing change timing determination tables. In S67108, the effect control CPU 101 selects a change timing determination table based on the final display mode determined in S67106, the prefetch effect pattern determined in S67107, and the status of the pending display changing flag, and the selected change timing is selected. Based on the determination table and the total number of reserved storage, the change timing (number of shifts) of the hold display corresponding to the change display to be notified is determined. Specifically, when the final display mode is a special mode, the prefetching production pattern is the first prefetching production pattern, and the on-hold display changing flag is not set, the production control CPU 101 displays the state shown in FIG. The first look-ahead effect pattern change timing determination table shown (when the pending display changing flag is not set) is selected. Then, the effect control CPU 101 sets the change timing (number of shifts) of the hold display corresponding to the variable display of the notice target at the ratio determined for each of the combined hold storage numbers in the selected first look-ahead effect pattern change timing determination table. Decide to any one of 1-7.

  Further, when the prefetch effect pattern is the second prefetch effect pattern, the on-hold display changing flag is not set, and the final display mode is the first special mode, the CPU 101 for effect control has the first special mode. 2nd look-ahead effect pattern change timing determination table (when holding display changing flag is not set) (first change timing from normal mode to special mode and second change timing from special mode to first special mode) When the final display mode is the second special mode, the second look-ahead effect pattern change timing determination table shown in FIG. 48B (when the on-hold display changing flag is not set) (the first from the normal mode to the special mode) The change timing and the second change timing from the special mode to the second special mode) are selected. In addition, when the pre-reading effect pattern is the second pre-reading effect pattern and the pending display changing flag is set, the effect control CPU 101 does not change the final display mode, as shown in FIG. 49 (A). 2 Pre-reading effect pattern change timing determination table (at the time of holding display changing flag setting) (first change timing from normal mode to special mode and second change timing from special mode to first special mode or second special mode) select. Then, the CPU 101 for effect control uses the first change timing (the number of shifts) of the hold display corresponding to the variable display of the notice target at the ratio determined for each total hold storage number in the selected second prefetch effect pattern change timing determination table. ) Is determined to be any one of 1 to 6, and the second change timing (the number of shifts) is determined to be any one of 2 to 7.

  As described above, the second look-ahead effect pattern change timing determination table shown in FIGS. 48 to 49 shows the ratio of the determination value corresponding to the random number. When using a random number, 1 to 1000 determination values corresponding to the random number are assigned. Therefore, for example, if the ratio of the determination values is 0.5 (first shift timing: 6, first shift timing: 7 in FIG. 48A), determination values 1 to 5 are assigned. In this embodiment, the first change timing and the second change timing are determined at the same time using the second look-ahead effect pattern change timing determination table shown in FIGS. You may do it.

  Further, when the prefetch effect pattern is the third prefetch effect pattern, the pending display changing flag is not set, and the final display mode is the first special mode, the CPU 101 for effect control has a first special mode as shown in FIG. When the third look-ahead effect pattern change timing determination table (when the hold display changing flag is not set) (change timing from the normal mode to the first special mode) is selected and the final display mode is the second special mode, A third look-ahead effect pattern change timing determination table shown in FIG. 50B (when the pending display changing flag is not set) (change timing from the normal mode to the second special mode) is selected. In addition, when the prefetch effect pattern is the third prefetch effect pattern and the pending display changing flag is set, the effect control CPU 101 does not depend on the final display mode, and the first prefetch effect pattern is shown in FIG. 3. Select a look-ahead effect pattern change timing determination table (when the pending display change flag is set) (second change timing from the normal mode to the first special mode or the second special mode). Then, the effect control CPU 101 sets the change timing (the number of shifts) of the hold display corresponding to the variable display of the notice target at a ratio determined for each total hold storage number in the selected third prefetch effect pattern change timing determination table. Decide to any one of 1-7.

  47 to 50 are characteristic in the pre-reading effect change timing determination table when the hold display changing flag is set (that is, in the combined hold storage display unit 18c, any hold display is in the normal mode. When the pending display changing flag is not set (that is, in the total pending storage display portion 18c, any pending display is displayed in a display mode other than the normal mode). In other words, the determination value is set so that the rate at which the change timing is delayed (the number of shifts until the change timing is reached) increases. By having such a feature, when any of the hold displays is displayed in a display mode other than the normal mode in the total hold storage display unit 18c, the pre-reading effect to be newly executed has a change timing. It is likely to be determined later (the number of shifts until the change timing is reached is likely to increase), and the rate of change after the hold display already displayed in a display mode other than the normal mode is increased. That is, when any one of the hold displays is displayed in a display mode other than the normal mode (for example, special display) in the total hold storage display unit 18c, the display other than the normal mode is displayed rather than the hold display displayed in the normal mode. The rate at which the display mode of the hold display displayed in the display mode (for example, special display) further changes can be increased. For this reason, in the total hold storage display unit 18c, when any hold display is displayed in a display mode other than the normal mode, the hold display is likely to change to a display mode with a higher expectation level that is a big hit. The display mode of the hold display when the effect (suggestion effect) is executed can be given interest, and the interest of the pre-reading effect can be enhanced.

  47 to 50 are characteristic in the prefetching effect change timing determination table, when the final display mode is the first special mode, the change timing is later than when the second special mode is used ( The determination value is set so that the ratio of the number of shifts until the change timing is reached is increased. By having such a feature, when the display mode of the hold display is changed at an early timing (small number of shifts), the rate of change to the second special mode with a high expectation level that is a big hit is increased. Can do. Therefore, it is possible to give interest to the timing at which the hold display changes (that is, what number of the hold display changes). 47 to 50, the change timing is earlier when the final display mode is the first special mode than when the final display mode is the second special mode (the number of shifts until the change timing is reached). The determination value may be set so that the ratio increases. In this case, when the display mode of the hold display is changed at a late timing (a large number of shifts), it can be easily changed to the second special mode with a high expectation level for a big hit. In this embodiment, if the pending display changing flag is set, the same prefetch effect change timing determination table (second prefetch effect change timing determination table in FIG. 49A) regardless of the final display mode. (When the hold display changing flag is set) or the third look-ahead effect change timing determination table (when the hold display changing flag is set) of FIG. 50C is used, but the hold display changing flag is set. In addition, a prefetch effect change timing determination table to which determination values are assigned so as to be determined at different change timings according to the final display mode may be used.

  In this embodiment, in order to simplify the explanation, the timing of changing the display mode of the hold display is set as an arbitrary shift timing until the start of the variable display of the notice target. If the display mode can be changed at any timing until the display of the subject's change display starts, for example, the change timing (start winning prize, specific shift timing, specific change display, etc.) is specified. A plurality of possible change timing patterns may be provided, and any one of them may be selected according to the winning determination result.

  Further, in this embodiment, regardless of whether the first start winning opening 13 or the second starting winning opening 14 is won, the variable display is performed in the order of winning, and the high base (that is, the second start winning opening 14 is won). Even if it is in a state that is easy to perform, the pre-reading effect can be executed based on winning in either the first start winning opening 13 or the second starting winning opening 14. Therefore, in the process of determining the prefetch effect pattern in the prefetch effect determining process (S67107) and the process of determining the change timing (S67108), as shown in FIGS. 46 to 50, the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory. The pre-reading effect pattern and the change timing are determined based on the total pending storage number obtained by adding the numbers. However, as described above, when the pre-reading effect based on the start winning of either the first start winning opening 13 or the second starting winning opening 14 is limited according to the gaming state, In the process of determining the prefetch effect pattern (S67107) and the process of determining the change timing (S67108), the number of reserved memories (first reserved memory number or The prefetch effect pattern and the change timing may be determined on the basis of the second stored memory number.

  When the change timing (number of shifts) is determined, the effect control CPU 101 determines the effect mode of the suggested effect performed at the change timing of the hold display (S67110). In this embodiment, a suggestion effect that suggests that the display mode of the hold display may change can be executed at the shift timing. The suggestion effect is executed in the first effect mode (in this example, “Chance!” Is displayed in the ellipse) or in the second effect mode (in this example, “Chance!” Is displayed in the rectangle). The In S67110, the effect mode of the suggestion effect executed at the change timing of the hold display is determined to be either the first effect mode or the second effect mode.

  In this embodiment, the hold display changes to the special mode, the first special mode, or the second special mode at different ratios according to the effect mode of the suggestion effect. Specifically, when the suggestion effect is executed in the second effect mode, the rate at which the display mode of the hold display changes is higher than when the suggestion effect is executed in the first effect mode. Although the details will be described later, the suggestion effect is also executed at a shift timing other than the change timing of the hold display. Therefore, in order to distinguish these, the suggestion effect executed at the change timing of the hold display is also referred to as the suggestion effect (success pattern), and the suggestion effect executed at the shift timing other than the change timing of the hold display is indicated as the suggestion effect (failure). It is also called a pattern. Both the suggestion effect (success pattern) and the suggestion effect (failure pattern) are executed in the first effect mode or the second effect mode.

  FIG. 51 is an explanatory diagram of a suggestion effect mode determination table. In S67110, the effect control CPU 101 determines the effect mode of the suggested effect performed at the change timing of the hold display, using the suggestion effect mode determination table shown in FIG.

  What is characteristic in the suggestion effect mode determination table shown in FIG. 51 is that the ratio determined in the second effect mode is higher than that in the first effect mode at the change timing, and is higher than that in the second effect mode at the non-change timing. No. is that the determination value is set so that the ratio determined in the first effect mode is high. By providing such a feature, it is possible to suggest the possibility that the display mode of the hold display changes at different ratios according to the effect mode of the suggestion effect. Therefore, diversity can be given to the suggestion effect, and it can be made to pay attention to which effect aspect the suggestion effect is executed. It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the example shown in FIG. 51, and the value of one of the shift counters stored in the winning determination result storage buffer is 0 or more (that is, the display mode of the hold display is scheduled to change). The determination value may be set so that the ratio of executing the suggestion effect (failure pattern) at the non-change timing is high. By doing in this way, even if it is a suggestion production (failure pattern), expectation can be given by the frequency performed.

  In this embodiment, the possibility that the display mode of the hold display is changed is suggested at different ratios according to the effect mode of the suggestion effect. For example, the display mode of the hold display changes to any display mode. May be suggested at different rates. For example, when the suggestion effect is executed in the first effect mode A (for example, the letter “chance!” In the ellipse is displayed in red), the first effect mode B (for example, “chance in the ellipse” "!" Is displayed in white), the ratio of changing to the second special mode having a high expectation degree of jackpot may be increased. Further, in the suggestion effect, any of the displayed hold displays may be specified, and an effect suggesting that the display mode of the specified hold display may change may be performed. In this case, according to which hold display is specified (the state of the specified hold display), the effect mode is determined by using the suggested effect mode determination table in which different determination values (ratio) are set. You may do it. Further, in this embodiment, the suggestion effect is always executed at the shift timing at which the display mode of the hold display changes. However, the suggestion effect may not be executed. In this case, since the display mode of the hold display can be suddenly changed without being suggested by the suggestion effect, the unexpected feeling can be enhanced. Further, in this embodiment, two types of presentation modes of suggestion are provided, but three or more types of presentation are provided, and the degree of expectation that the display mode changes is different (whether or not it is a change timing). The ratio selected may differ depending on

  When the effect mode of the suggestion effect is determined, the effect control CPU 101 performs control so that a new hold display is displayed in the normal mode in the combined hold memory number display unit 18c (S67111). In S67111, the effect control CPU 101 controls to display the new hold display in the normal mode, and also displays data indicating the hold display mode (normal mode in this example), data indicating the final display mode, and prefetching effect. The data indicating the pattern, the data indicating the counter of the number of shifts and the effect mode of the suggestion effect, and the winning determination result are stored in the winning determination result storage buffer (FIG. 43). By storing these data, it is possible to specify the final display mode, the pre-reading effect pattern, the change timing, and the suggestive effect mode determined in the prefetch effect determining process in the effect symbol variation start process described later.

  As described above, in this embodiment, when the winning determination result designation command is received, whether or not to execute the pre-reading effect is determined in the pre-reading effect determination process, and a new hold display is displayed. A process of controlling to display in the normal mode is performed. In this embodiment, the change timing of the hold display in the pre-reading effect is not determined at the start winning prize, but when it is allowed to be decided at the start winning prize, a new hold display is displayed in S67111. Control is performed to display in a display mode other than the normal mode. In addition, in this embodiment, even when any hold display is displayed in a special mode (or special mode), or when it is determined that the pre-reading effect is executed in advance, Although it is allowed to execute a prefetch effect, the present invention is not limited to this, and the execution of the prefetch effect is limited at a certain rate (for example, when any hold display is displayed in a special manner) In other words, it may be possible to limit the execution of overlapping, or to limit the execution of three or more pre-reading effects. By making such a restriction, it is possible for the player to easily understand which hold display should be noted.

  Further, in this embodiment, the variable display is executed in the order of winning one of the first special symbol and the second special symbol, but when any one of the variable displays is executed with priority. (1) It is configured to perform a pre-reading effect only for the variable display of the first special symbol, and (2) is configured to perform a pre-reading effect only for the variable display of the second special symbol There are three types of configurations: (3) a configuration in which a pre-reading effect is performed for the variable display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol.

  When the configuration of (1) above is added to the configuration in which the variable display of the second special symbol is preferentially executed, the shift counter is changed according to the upper limit value (4 in this example) of the first reserved memory count. A maximum of 4 is set in. However, in the configuration of (1) above, even if a pre-reading effect that changes the display mode of the hold display corresponding to the variable display of the first special symbol is executed, 2 Since the special symbol variation display is interrupted and executed (prioritized rather than in winning order), for example, when the second special symbol variation display is performed, an effect symbol which will be described later is provided even at the shift timing. It is desirable to configure so that the value of the shift number counter is not subtracted in S1802 of the fluctuation start process. Similarly, in the configuration of (3) above, when the pre-reading effect that changes the display mode of the hold display corresponding to the variable display of the first special symbol is executed, similarly, when the variable display of the second special symbol is performed. Is preferably configured so as not to subtract the value of the number-of-shifts counter in S1802 of the effect symbol variation start process described later.

  In addition, when the configuration of (2) above is added to the configuration that prioritizes the variable display of the second special symbol, the shift is made according to the upper limit value of the second reserved memory number (4 in this example). A maximum of 4 is set in the number counter. In this case, unlike the configuration (1) above, the value of the shift counter is subtracted when the shift timing is reached, regardless of whether the first special symbol or the second special symbol is displayed. Similarly, in the configuration of (3) above, when a pre-reading effect that changes the display mode of the hold display corresponding to the variable display of the second special symbol is executed, either the first special symbol or the second special symbol is similarly executed. Even when the variable display is performed, the value of the shift counter is subtracted at the shift timing.

  In addition, when it is configured to preferentially execute the variable display of the second special symbol, the pre-reading effect is not performed for the variable display of the first special symbol during the high base. May be. In addition, when it is configured to preferentially execute the variation display of the second special symbol, it is configured not to perform the pre-reading effect based on winning in the first start winning opening 13 during the big hit game. Also good. In such a configuration, for example, during a high base game or a big hit game, even if the game control microcomputer 560 receives a prize at the first start prize opening 13, the winning effect process in S1217 is not executed. Even if it is determined that the winning determination result designation command received in the effect control microcomputer 560 is discarded or the prefetch effect is determined to be executed, control can be realized so that it is not executed. Further, when the configuration of (3) above is added to the configuration that preferentially executes the variation display of the second special symbol, the pre-read based on the winning at the first start winning opening 13 during the high base or big hit game Although no effect is performed, a pre-reading effect based on winning at the second start winning opening 14 may be performed. In such a configuration, for example, during a high base game or a big hit game, even if the game control microcomputer 560 receives a prize at the first start prize opening 13, the winning effect process in S1217 is not executed. Even if it is decided to execute the pre-reading effect or to discard the winning determination result designation command based on the winning to the first start winning opening 13 received by the production control microcomputer 560 It can be realized by controlling to. Further, the game control microcomputer 560 side restricts the execution of the winning effect processing (that is, the pre-reading effect) based on the start winning at the first start winning opening 13 when the high base state or the big hit game is in progress. In the case of the configuration, on the side of the production control microcomputer 100, in the high base state, only the pre-reading effect based on the start winning prize in the second start winning opening 14 can be executed, and in the low base state, the first start winning opening is made. Only the pre-reading effect based on the start winning at 13 can be executed (ie, in the low base state, the pre-reading effect can be performed even if a winning determination result designation command is received based on the start winning at the second start winning port 14. It may be determined not to execute).

  In addition, in the case where the configuration of (1) is added to the configuration that preferentially executes the variation display of the second special symbol, the reserved memory based on the winning to the second start winning port 14 exists. When the winning at the first start winning opening 13 occurs, the pre-reading effect for the reserved storage based on the winning at the first starting winning opening 13 may not be executed. In addition, when the configuration of (1) is added to the configuration that preferentially executes the variation display of the second special symbol, the pre-reading effect for the reserved memory based on the winning to the first start winning opening 13 is provided. When a winning to the second start winning opening 14 occurs in the state where the execution is determined, the execution of the pre-reading effect that has already been determined may be canceled.

  In this embodiment, the variable display is executed in the order of winning one of the first special symbol and the second special symbol, but the pre-reading effect is performed only for the variable display of the first special symbol (the above ( 1)), or a configuration (above (2)) that performs a pre-reading effect only for the variable display of the second special symbol. In this embodiment, the variable display is executed in the order of winning one of the first special symbol and the second special symbol. For example, during the high base game or the big hit game, the first start winning port 13 is displayed. The pre-reading effect based on the winnings may not be performed. Further, in this embodiment, the determination process including whether to perform the pre-reading effect based on the reception of the winning determination result designation command is executed in the pre-reading effect determination process. You may make it perform in the effect design change process to perform. For example, it is possible to execute a determination process including whether to perform a pre-reading effect by including a process of monitoring the winning determination result storage buffer in the effect symbol variation process.

  FIG. 52 is a flowchart showing the effect control process (S705) in the main process shown in FIG. In the effect control process, the effect control CPU 101 performs any one of S800 to S806 according to the value of the effect control process flag. In each process, the following process is executed.

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

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

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

  Effect symbol variation stop process (S803): Based on the reception of the effect control command (design determination designation command) for instructing all symbols to stop, control is performed to stop the variation of the effect symbol and to derive and display the stop symbol. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the jackpot display process (S804) or the variation pattern command reception waiting process (S800).

  Jackpot display processing (S804): After the end of the variation time, control is performed to display a screen for notifying the effect display device 9 of the occurrence of a jackpot. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the big hit game processing (S805).

  Big hit game processing (S805): Control during the big hit game is performed. For example, when a special winning opening opening designation command or a special winning opening open designation command is received, display control of the number of rounds in the effect display device 9 is performed. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the jackpot end effect process (S806).

  Big hit end effect processing (S806): In the effect display device 9, display control is performed to notify the player that the big hit game state has ended. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern command reception waiting process (S800).

  FIG. 53 is a flowchart showing the variation pattern command reception waiting process (S800) in the effect control process. In the variation pattern command reception waiting process, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the variation pattern command reception flag is set (S811), and if it is set, resets the variation pattern command reception flag (S812). Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the effect symbol variation start process (S801) (S813).

  FIG. 54 is a flowchart showing the effect symbol variation start process (S801) in the effect control process. In the effect symbol variation start process, the effect control CPU 101 first deletes various data associated with the first winning determination result (oldest determination result) stored in the winning determination result storage buffer, The contents of the winning determination result storage buffer are shifted, the first hold display in the combined hold storage display unit 18c is erased, the remaining hold display is shifted one by one, and the combined hold storage display unit 18c adds up. The display of the reserved memory number is updated (S1800). For example, when the first to third hold displays of the combined hold storage display unit 18c are displayed, the first hold display is erased at the shift timing and the second hold display is displayed. The hold display is shifted to the first display area, and the hold display displayed in the third is shifted to the second display area. In the case where the variable display of either the first special symbol or the second special symbol is preferentially executed, the effect control CPU 101 is synchronized with the variable display of the first special symbol. When the effect symbol variation display is executed (specifically, when the first symbol variation designation command reception flag is set), the first winning determination result storage buffer stores the first one. The winning determination result is deleted, and the contents of the first winning determination result storage buffer are shifted.

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 stores the value of the shift counter for specifying the change timing (number of shifts) associated with any of the winning determination results in the winning determination result storage buffer (see FIG. 43). It is confirmed whether it is larger than 0 (S1801). The fact that the value of the shift counter is greater than 0 means that it is determined to execute a pre-reading effect that changes the display mode for any of the hold displays displayed on the combined hold storage display unit 18c. Is shown. Therefore, in S1801, it is confirmed whether or not it is determined to execute the pre-reading effect (change the display mode of the hold display). When the value of any shift counter is not greater than 0 (N in S1801), that is, the value of the shift counter is 0 or not set, and a pre-reading effect is executed (the display mode of the hold display is changed) If it has not been determined, the effect control CPU 101 moves the process to S1803a.

  On the other hand, when the value of the shift counter is larger than 0 (Y in S1801), that is, when it is determined to execute the prefetch effect (change the display mode of the hold display), the effect control CPU 101. 1 subtracts 1 from all shift counter values (S1802), and checks whether the value of the shift counter after subtraction is 0 (S1803). If the value of the shift counter is 0 as a result of subtracting 1 from the value of the shift counter in S1802, the display mode of one of the hold displays displayed on the combined hold storage display unit 18c is changed. This indicates that it is time to execute the pre-reading effect. Therefore, in S1803, it is confirmed whether or not it is the change timing of the prefetch effect that changes the display mode of the hold display.

  In S1803, when the value of the shift counter is not 0, that is, when it is not the change timing of the prefetch effect that changes the display mode of the hold display, the effect control CPU 101 shifts the process to S1803a. On the other hand, if the value of the shift counter is 0, that is, if it is the change timing of the prefetch effect that changes the display mode of the hold display, the process proceeds to S1808. In S1808, the shift counter whose value is 0 is set to a state where nothing is set (for example, Null). By performing such a process, it is possible to avoid the case where the change timing has already been reached (the value obtained by subtracting the shift counter value from 0) from being changed again in S1803.

  In the case where it is allowed to change the display mode of the hold display at the time of starting winning, for example, the following processing is performed, so that the change of the display mode of the hold display at the change timing is realized. When the prefetch effect pattern is the second prefetch effect pattern, the first change timing is the start winning prize, and the second change timing is the first shift timing, the effect control CPU 101 performs the first prefetch effect determination process in S67108. The value of the shift number counter is set to 0, and the value of the second shift number counter is set to 1. Then, the effect control CPU 101 performs control to display a new hold display in a special manner based on the value of the first shift number counter being 0 in S67111 of the prefetch effect determination process, and the first shift. The number counter is set to a state where nothing is set (for example, Null). By performing the process in this way, in the effect symbol variation start process to be performed thereafter, the effect control CPU 101 subtracts 1 from the value of the second shift number counter in S1801 and S1802 to 0, and in S1803, Based on the fact that the value of the second shift number counter becomes 0, it can be determined that it is the second change timing for changing from the special mode to the special mode.

  In S1803a, the production control CPU 101 checks whether or not there is a hold display displayed in a special mode or a special mode in the hold display displayed in the total hold storage display unit 18c (S1803a). For example, it can be confirmed by referring to the hold display mode of the winning determination result storage buffer. Note that the data indicating the hold display mode stored in the winning determination result storage buffer is registered, for example, in the pre-reading effect determination process, and updated in S1808 described later. If it is determined in S1803a that there is no special display or a hold display displayed in a special form, the effect control CPU 101 resets the hold display changing flag (S1803b). In this way, by updating the status of the pending display changing flag according to whether any pending display is displayed in a special mode or a special mode, any pending display has already been changed from the normal mode. When displayed in the display mode, the hold display displayed in the display mode other than the normal mode can be changed more easily than the hold display displayed in the other normal mode (prefetching effect determination process, 45, FIG. 47 to FIG. 50).

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 reads the variation pattern command from the variation pattern command storage area (S1804), and reads the variation pattern command and the data (display result designation command) stored in the display result designation command storage area. In response, the display result (stop symbol) of the effect symbol is determined (S1805). The effect control CPU 101 stores data indicating the determined effect stop symbols in the effect symbol display result storage area.

  FIG. 55 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the stop symbol of the effect symbol. In the example shown in FIG. 55, when the received display result designation command indicates a normal jackpot, the effect control CPU 101 determines that the three symbols are even symbols as a stop symbol (a stop symbol reminiscent of the occurrence of a normal jackpot). ) To determine the combination of production symbols (usually jackpot symbol). Further, when the probability variation big hit is indicated, the combination of the production symbols (probability big hit symbol) in which the symbols are arranged in odd symbols (stop symbols reminiscent of occurrence of the probability variation big hit) is determined. In the case of a loss, a combination of effect symbols other than the above (delay symbol) is determined. However, when a reach effect is involved, a combination of effect symbols in which two left and right symbols are aligned is determined. When the received display result designation command suddenly shows a probable big hit or a small win, a combination of effect symbols such as “135” is determined. The combination of the three symbols derived and displayed on the effect display device 9 is the “stop symbol” of the effect symbol. The effect control CPU 101 extracts, for example, a random number for determining the stop symbol, and uses the stop symbol determination table in which the data indicating the combination of effect symbols and numerical values are associated with each other to generate the stop symbol of the effect symbol. decide. That is, the stop symbol is determined by selecting data indicating the combination of effect symbols corresponding to the numerical value matching the extracted random number.

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 determines the effect mode of the suggestion effect (S1806). The process of S1806 is not executed at the timing when the display mode of the hold display changes due to the pre-reading effect. Therefore, although it suggests that the display mode of the hold display changes, as a result, the display mode of the suggestion effect (failure pattern) that is executed when the display mode does not change is determined. When the on-hold display changing flag is not set (when any on-hold display is not displayed in a special mode or a special mode), the effect control CPU 101 indicates the non-change timing suggested effect mode shown in FIG. It is determined that the suggestion effect (failure pattern) is not executed at the ratio of the determination table (when the pending display changing flag is not set), or is executed in the first effect mode or the second effect mode. When the on-hold display changing flag is set (any on-hold display is displayed in a special mode or a special mode), the non-change timing suggested effect mode determination table (pending display change) shown in FIG. It is determined that the suggestion effect (failure pattern) is not executed at the ratio of the middle flag set) or is executed in the first effect mode or the second effect mode.

  As shown in FIGS. 51 (B) and 51 (C), when the pending display changing flag is set (any pending display is displayed in a special mode or a special mode), otherwise The suggestion effect is executed at a higher rate. Therefore, it is possible to enhance the expectation when the hold display is displayed in a special manner. In this embodiment, the suggestion effect is always executed when the hold display is displayed in a special mode, but even when the hold display is displayed in a special mode. The suggestion effect may not be executed. However, also in this case, it is desirable that the suggestive effect is executed at a higher rate than when the hold display is not displayed in a special manner. In addition, when the pending display changing flag is set (any pending display is displayed in a special mode or a special mode), the final display mode of the held display is the first special mode or the second special mode. You may make it determine the production | presentation aspect of a suggestion effect in the different ratio to the 1st production | presentation aspect A or the 1st production | presentation aspect B according to which is an aspect. For example, when the final display mode is determined to be the second special mode having a higher expectation than the first special mode, the effect mode of the suggestion effect is determined to be the first effect mode A rather than the first effect mode B. You may make it raise the ratio to be high.

  Next, the production control CPU 101 selects a process table corresponding to the production mode and variation pattern of the determined suggestion production (failure pattern) (S1807). Then, the process timer in the process data 1 of the selected process table is started (S1812). FIG. 56 is an explanatory diagram of a configuration example of the process table. The process table is a table in which process data referred to when the effect control CPU 101 controls the effect device is set. The effect control CPU 101 controls effect devices such as the effect display device 9 according to the process data set in the process table. The process table includes data obtained by collecting a plurality of combinations of process timer setting values, display control execution data, lamp control execution data, and sound number data. In the display control execution data, there are described each variation mode constituting the variation mode during the variable display time of the variable display of the effect symbol, data indicating the pre-reading effect mode, data indicating the suggestion effect mode, and the like. . Specifically, data relating to the change of the display screen of the effect display device 9 is described. The process timer set value is set with a change time in the form of the change. The effect control CPU 101 refers to the process table and performs control to display the effect design in the variation mode set in the display control execution data for the time set in the process timer set value. In addition, even if it corresponds to the production control process timer determination value, the data corresponding to the production parts that are not to be controlled (for example, the prefetching production described in the display control execution data of the process table used when the prefetching production is not executed) Dummy data (data for which no control is specified) may be set in (data indicating the mode).

  The process table is stored in the ROM of the effect control board 80. A process table is prepared for each variation pattern. In the process table used when effect control is executed for a variation pattern with reach effect, the left symbol is stopped and displayed when a predetermined time has elapsed from the start of the variation, and the right symbol is stopped and displayed when a predetermined time further elapses. Process data is set. In addition, instead of setting the symbols to be stopped and displayed in the process table, an image for displaying the symbols may be synthesized and generated according to the temporarily stopped symbols in the determined stopped symbols and pseudo-continuations. Good.

  The production control CPU 101 performs the production device (the production display device 9 as production parts, various lamps, speakers 27R, 27L according to the contents of the process data 1 (display control execution data 1, lamp control execution data 1, sound number data 1). ) Is executed (S1813). For example, a command is output to the VDP 109 in order to display an image according to the variation pattern on the effect display device 9. In addition, a control signal (lamp control execution data) is output to the lamp driver board 35 in order to perform on / off control of various lamps. In addition, a control signal (sound number data) is output to the audio output board 70 in order to perform audio output from the speaker. In this embodiment, the variation pattern command is controlled so that the variable display of the effect symbol is performed by the variation pattern corresponding to the variation pattern command, but the variation pattern command is used from a plurality of variation patterns corresponding to the variation pattern command. A variation pattern may be selected. Next, the effect control CPU 101 sets a value corresponding to the change time specified by the change pattern command in the change time timer (S1814), and sets the value of the effect control process flag to a value corresponding to the effect symbol changing process. (S1815).

  When it is determined in S1803 that the value of any of the shift counters is 0, that is, when it is the change timing of the prefetch effect that changes the display mode of the hold display, the effect control CPU 101 is changing the hold display. If the flag is set, it is set (S1808). In S1808, the effect control CPU 101 sets the shift number counter whose value is 0 in the winning determination result storage buffer to a state where nothing is set (for example, Null) and the corresponding hold display mode. Update the data indicating. For example, when the value of the first shift number counter becomes 0, if the value of the second shift number counter is 0 (that is, if it is not the second look-ahead effect pattern), the corresponding hold display mode is the normal mode. If the value of the second shift number counter is not 0 (that is, if it is the second look-ahead effect pattern), the corresponding hold display mode is changed from the normal mode to the special mode. Update. Further, when the value of the second shift number counter becomes 0 (that is, at the second change timing of the second look-ahead effect pattern), the corresponding hold display mode is indicated from the special mode to the final display mode. Update to display mode. By performing such processing, in the pre-reading effect determination process, it is possible to determine whether or not to execute the pre-reading effect and the content based on the display mode of the currently displayed hold display.

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 reads the variation pattern command (S1809), and displays the effect symbol in accordance with the variation pattern command and the data (received display result designation command) stored in the display result designation command storage area. A result (stop symbol) is determined (S1810). Next, the effect control CPU 101 selects a display mode change process table corresponding to the prefetch effect pattern, the final display mode, the suggestive effect mode, and the variation pattern (S1811), and proceeds to S1812.

  The process table for changing the display mode is to execute the suggestion effect (success pattern) at the start of the change of the effect symbol and the pre-read effect that changes the display mode of the specific hold display together with the change display of the effect symbol. It is a table in which process data for performing control is set. In this embodiment, a plurality of types of process tables for changing display modes are provided according to the suggestion effect (success pattern) to be executed and the aspect of the prefetch effect. Further, in this embodiment, the effect mode of the suggestion effect (success pattern) determined in the pre-read effect determination process and stored in the winning determination result storage buffer (in this example, the first effect mode or the second effect mode). And based on the pre-reading effect pattern (in this example, any of the first pre-reading effect pattern to the third pre-reading effect pattern) and the final display mode (in this example, the first display mode or the second display mode), It is possible to specify in what form the suggestion effect (success pattern) is executed and which pre-read effect is executed to change which hold display to what display form. Therefore, the CPU 101 for effect control selects and selects one of the process tables for changing the display mode according to the effect mode, the pre-reading effect pattern, the final display mode, and the variation pattern of the suggestion effect (success pattern). By executing the control of the effect device according to the contents of the process data 1 in the process table for changing the display mode, the suggestion effect (success pattern) is executed in the effect mode determined in the pre-reading effect determination process. It is possible to execute a prefetch effect that changes the hold display corresponding to the variable display to the determined display mode.

  FIG. 57 is an explanatory diagram of a specific example of the prefetch effect. As shown in FIG. 57 (A), in the effect display device 9, when three hold displays are displayed in the normal hold mode (“◯” in this example) on the total hold storage display unit 18c, When the derivation display is performed, a new variable display is started. Next, if the timing at which the hold display is shifted is a change timing, the suggested effect of the second effect mode that has been determined in advance (in this example, the word “chance!” Is displayed in a rectangular frame). Is executed (FIG. 57B). When the pre-reading effect pattern determined in advance is the third pre-reading effect pattern and the final display mode is the first special mode, the second hold display is the first special mode (in this example, “O”). When the final display mode is the second special mode, the second hold display is the second special mode (in this example, in FIG. 57 (C1)). “◯” is included in “◯”) and displayed (FIG. 57 (C2)).

  In addition, when the pre-reading effect pattern determined in advance is the first pre-reading effect pattern or the second pre-reading effect pattern, the second hold display has a special mode (in this example, “x” is indicated in “O”). (Included) is displayed (FIG. 57 (C3)). Next, when the derivation display of the off symbol is performed (FIG. 57 (D)), a new variation display is started. And if the timing at which the hold display shift is performed is the change timing and the production mode of the suggested production (success pattern) determined in advance is the second production mode, the second production mode (in this example, rectangular) The suggestion effect of “Chance!” Is displayed in the frame (FIG. 57 (E1)). When the pre-reading effect pattern determined in advance is the second pre-reading effect pattern and the final display mode is the first special mode, the first hold display is the first special mode (“◯” in this example). When the final display mode is the second special mode, the first hold display is displayed in the second special mode (in this example, in FIG. 57 (F1)). “◯” is included in “◯”) and displayed (FIG. 57 (F2)). In addition, if the new variable display is started and the timing at which the hold display shift is performed is the non-change timing, and the determined presentation effect (failure pattern) is in the first production mode, the first production is performed. Although the suggestion effect of the mode (in this example, the word “chance!” Is displayed within the ellipse frame) is executed (FIG. 57 (E2)), the display mode of the hold display does not change (FIG. 57 (F3 )).

  FIG. 58 is a flowchart showing a modification of the effect symbol variation start process. FIG. 59 is an explanatory diagram showing a modification of the suggestion effect mode determination table. In the modification shown in FIGS. 58 and 59, when the effect mode of the suggestion effect (failure pattern) at the non-change timing is determined in S1806 of the effect symbol variation start process, the effect control CPU 101 determines that the determined effect mode is the second. If it is an effect mode and the pending change flag is set (Y in S1806a), an suggestion effect restriction flag for restricting execution of the suggestion effect is set (S1806b). In S1806, when the on-hold display changing flag is set, the effect control CPU 101 determines the suggestion effect mode at the non-change timing shown in FIG. 59 (C1) according to the state of the suggestion effect restriction flag. Table (when holding display changing flag is set) (when suggestion effect restriction flag is not set) or non-change timing suggestion effect mode determination table (when holding display changing flag is set) shown in FIG. 59 (C2) Using the flag setting), the presentation mode of the suggestion presentation (failure pattern) is determined.

  As shown in FIGS. 59 (C1) and (C2), when the suggestion effect restriction flag is set, execution of the suggestion effect of the first effect mode having a lower degree of expectation than the second effect mode is restricted. ing. Therefore, after the suggestion effect (failure pattern) of the second effect mode with a high expectation is executed when the hold display is displayed in a special mode or a special mode, the suggestion effect of the first effect mode with a low expectation level is executed. (Failure pattern) can be restricted from being executed, and the player can be prevented from having a sense of expectation. In addition, since the suggestion effect restriction flag set is reset at the same time when the pending display changing flag is reset (S1803c), the special mode or the special mode pending display being displayed is deleted, and the pending display is newly set to the special mode. Or when it is displayed in a special mode, it becomes possible to execute a suggestion effect (failure pattern) of the first effect mode. In the example shown in FIG. 59, the suggestion effect mode determination table in which the determination values are set at the same rate is used at the change timing regardless of the state of the suggestion effect restriction flag. Depending on the state of the flag, the suggested effect mode determination table in which determination values are set at different ratios (for example, the suggested effect mode determination table used when the suggested effect limit flag is set is determined as the first effect mode). Alternatively, the determination value may be set so as to be determined as no effect or the second effect mode).

  In this embodiment, even if the hold display is changed to the special mode, the special mode may not be changed to the special mode. However, the hold display displayed in the special mode is the hold display (hold information). The change may be made to the first special mode or the second special mode before the variable display corresponding to is started. For example, in S67106 of the pre-reading effect determination process, the final display mode is determined using the final display mode determination table shown in FIG. And in S67107, it implement | achieves by determining a prefetch effect pattern using the prefetch effect pattern determination table shown in FIG.60 (B). If the final display mode determination table shown in FIG. 60A is used, the final display mode is determined as the first special mode or the second special mode other than the special mode. In addition, if the prefetch effect pattern determination table shown in FIG. 60B is used, the hold display displayed in the special mode is always changed and displayed in the first special mode or the second special mode. By doing in this way, while expectation degree when changing to a special aspect can be raised, a feeling of expectation can be maintained until it changes to a special aspect after displaying in a special aspect. In this case, whether or not the pre-reading effect is to be executed at the same rate may be determined in S67104 regardless of whether or not the pending display changing flag is set, or may be changed at the same rate in S67108. The timing may be determined, or the suggestive effect mode may be determined at the same rate in S67109.

  As described above, in this embodiment, it has been detected that the storage section (the surplus ball receiving tray 4 in this example) that can store the game medium is full (in this example, the full tank switch 48 of the full tank switch 48). Based on the detection signal being output (on state)), the first control means for performing the first control, and paying out the game medium based on the detection that the tank is full Dispensing stop means for stopping (in this example, when the error flag is not 0 in the dispensing start waiting process (unless no full tank error occurs)) The second control is performed based on the fact that the number of unpaid game media has reached a predetermined number when a game media payout is stopped by means (in this example, an unpaid number error error has occurred). And a second control means. With such a configuration, it is possible to perform control according to changes or differences in the state of the gaming machine.

  In this embodiment, the launching means (the hitting ball launching apparatus in this example) can launch the game medium even when it is detected that the tank is full, and the sub-control means (in this example for payout control) The microcomputer 370 and the production control microcomputer 100) include first control means. The first control means uses a predetermined notification (in this example, an error display “6” by the payout control microcomputer 370) as the first control. Is displayed on the error display LED 374, and the second abnormality notification LED 19b is controlled to be lit by the effect control microcomputer 100). With such a configuration, it is possible to perform control according to changes or differences in the state of the gaming machine.

  Further, in this embodiment, based on the fact that the full state is detected, the lending stop means for stopping the lending of the game medium (in this example, if the error flag is not 0 in the payout start waiting process, Realized by a configuration that does not execute processing). With such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the game medium from being clogged by performing the lending operation when the tank is full.

  Further, in this embodiment, the first control means and the second control means respectively notify that the error state has occurred in the first control and the second control, and the notification performed as the first control and the second control. The notification performed as the control is performed using at least a common notification means (in this example, when a full tank error occurs, the error display “6” is displayed on the error display LED 374 as the first control, and 2 When the unpaid number abnormality error occurs, as the second control, the error display “0” is displayed on the error display LED 374 and the first abnormality notification LED 19a is turned on. To be controlled). That is, the error display LED 374 is commonly used. With such a configuration, it is possible to reduce the manufacturing cost by also using the notification means. In this embodiment, the error display LED 374 controlled by the payout control microcomputer 370 is used as a common notification means. For example, a light emitter controlled by the effect control microcomputer 100 is used. You may make it use as a common alerting | reporting means.

  In this embodiment, the error display “6” is displayed on the error display LED 374 by the payout control microcomputer 370 as the first control performed based on the detection that the tank is full. The case where the second abnormality notification LED 19b is controlled to be in the lighting state by the production control microcomputer 100 has been described, but instead of or in addition to this, as the first control, for example, that it is in the full state. A signal may be output to the outside, or notification using a predetermined sound effect or a lamp may be performed. Similarly, as the second control, an error display “0” is displayed on the error display LED 374 by the payout control microcomputer 370, and the first abnormality notification LED 19 a is controlled to be lit by the effect control microcomputer 100. However, instead of or in addition to this, a signal indicating the occurrence of an unsettled number abnormality error is output externally, or a notification using a predetermined sound effect or lamp (however, (Different from 1 control) may be performed. Further, for example, the first abnormality notification LED 19a and the second abnormality notification LED 19b may not be provided, and different error displays may be displayed on the error display LED 374 in the first control and the second control.

  In this embodiment, the production control microcomputer 100 executes the first control or the second control based on the command received from the game control microcomputer 560 (the first abnormality notification LED 19a or the second abnormality). The notification LED 19b is controlled to be in a lighting state). However, the presentation control microcomputer 100 may be configured to perform control based on detection of a predetermined event. For example, it is configured such that the detection signal of the full tank switch 48 is output to the effect control microcomputer 100, and the effect control microcomputer 100 outputs the first signal based on the output of the detection signal of the full tank switch 48. One control may be executed.

  Further, in this embodiment, the second control is configured to start when an unpaid number abnormality error occurs and end when the unpaid number abnormality error is resolved. Is not limited to this. For example, the second control is terminated at a timing such as when the unpaid number becomes 0, when the unpaid number becomes less than a predetermined number, when the full tank state is resolved, or when the payout operation is resumed. It may be configured as follows.

  In this embodiment, the first control and the second control are executed by sub-control means (in this example, the payout control microcomputer 370 and the effect control microcomputer 100), but the main control means (in this example). Then, it may be configured to be executed by the game control microcomputer 560). For example, based on the fact that the main control means is detected to be full, the first control (for example, notification or external output) is executed, and the number of unpaid outs when the payout of game media is stopped The second control (for example, notification or external output different from the first control) may be executed based on the fact that the predetermined number has been reached.

  In this embodiment, the payout control microcomputer 370 detects an unsettled number abnormality error when the payout operation is stopped. However, the game control microcomputer 560 detects the unsold number. An abnormal error may be detected and the second control (for example, notification or external output) may be executed. In this case, for example, information indicating that the payout operation is stopped may be output from the output control microcomputer 370 to the game control microcomputer 560. In this embodiment, the prize control information is output from the payout control microcomputer 370 to the game control microcomputer 560 every time ten prize balls are paid out. The number of payouts cannot be grasped. Therefore, the error determination value of the unpaid number may be increased (for example, 600 more than 500) than when the payout control microcomputer 370 detects an unpaid number abnormal error. Further, each time a single winning ball is paid out, the winning ball information is output from the payout control microcomputer 370 to the game control microcomputer 560, or the detection signal of the payout number count switch 301 is used for game control. By configuring the microcomputer 560 so as to be input, the game control microcomputer 560 may be able to grasp the exact unpaid number. Further, the payout control microcomputer 370 and the game control microcomputer 560 may each detect an unpaid number abnormality error. At this time, the error determination value of the unpaid number for detecting the unpaid number abnormal error may be the same or different.

  Further, in this embodiment, the unpaid number abnormal error indicates a state in which the number of unpaid out has reached a predetermined number when the payout is stopped, but increased after the payout is stopped, for example. It may indicate a state where the number of unpaid out has reached a predetermined number. In this case, the number of unpaid items has been large before the withdrawal is stopped, and the number of unpaid items has increased slightly after the withdrawal is stopped. It is possible to distinguish from the state where the predetermined number has been reached due to the large increase in.

  In this embodiment, the game control microcomputer 560 includes specific determination means for determining the display result and the variation pattern of the variation display at the time of starting winning, which is realized by executing a winning effect processing or the like. Yes. Further, the production control microcomputer 100 implements a hold display corresponding to the hold storage (total hold storage based on the determination result by the specific determination means, which is realized by executing a prefetch effect determination process, an effect symbol variation start process, and the like. By changing the display on the display unit 18c to a display mode other than the normal mode (in this example, the special mode, the first special mode, or the second special mode), the variable display based on the hold memory becomes a big hit. A notice effect execution means for executing a pre-reading effect for notifying that there is a possibility, and a suggestion effect execution means for executing a suggestion effect that suggests that the display mode of the hold display changes (it may change), It has. The notice effect execution means then displays the hold display displayed at a different ratio depending on whether or not there is a hold display displayed in a display mode different from the normal mode among the displayed hold displays. Any one of them is changed to a display mode different from the normal mode and displayed. For example, when there is a hold display displayed in a display mode different from the normal mode, the display mode of the hold display is likely to change compared to other hold displays. This is whether or not to execute a new look-ahead effect depending on whether or not a pending change flag indicating that any of the displayed pending displays is displayed in a special mode or a special mode is set. To determine at a different rate (decrease the rate of new execution when set), to determine the change timing of the pre-reading effect to be executed at a different rate (delay the change timing when set) (Increase rate of change after special display or hold display displayed in special mode is deleted)). With such a configuration, it is possible to give interest to the display mode of the hold display when the prefetching effect is executed, and it is possible to enhance the interest of the prefetching effect.

  In this embodiment, when the pre-change effect flag is set in the pre-reading effect determination process executed at the time of starting winning (when any hold display is displayed in a display mode different from the normal mode) In the case where there is a hold display that is displayed in a display mode different from the normal mode by changing the ratio of executing the new pre-reading effect or delaying the change timing of the pre-reading effect to be newly executed, Although it is realized that the display mode of the hold display is easier to change than other hold displays, the implementation method is not limited to this. For example, in the pre-reading effect determination process executed at the start winning prize, the final display mode (for example, the upper limit of change is changed as to whether or not the pre-reading effect can be executed with respect to the latest winning determination result. In the production symbol variation start process in which a new variation display is started, the display mode of any hold display is changed (and changed to any display mode). And the display mode is changed based on the determination result. That is, the change timing is not determined for each winning determination result in the pre-reading effect determination process. In this configuration (hereinafter also referred to as the second configuration), it is confirmed whether or not there is a special mode hold display in the production symbol variation start process, and if there is a special mode hold display, the rate is high. The hold display in the special mode is determined as the target for changing the display mode rather than the normal mode display. By doing in this way, when there is a hold display displayed in a display mode different from the normal mode, the display mode of the hold display can be changed more easily than other hold displays. . Also, for example, in the effect symbol variation start process in which the pre-reading effect determination process is omitted and a new variation display is started, which corresponding display mode of the pending display is changed based on all winning determination results (For example, whether to perform the pre-reading effect based on each winning determination result and the display mode after the change) may be determined. In this configuration (hereinafter also referred to as the third configuration), it is confirmed whether or not there is a special mode hold display in the production symbol variation start process, and if there is a special mode hold display, the rate is high. When there is a hold display that is displayed in a display mode different from the normal mode by determining a special mode hold display as a target to change the display mode rather than the normal mode hold display, The display mode can be changed more easily than the on-hold display.

  Further, in this embodiment, the notice effect execution means is a plurality of types of special modes (for example, a first special mode or a second special mode) that are different from the normal mode for the on-hold display corresponding to the on-hold storage. , A special mode may be included (details will be described later)), and the display result of variable display based on the reserved storage may become a specific display result Can be executed with a different degree of expectation (for example, when the display is changed to the second special mode, the jackpot is displayed as compared to the case where the display is changed to the first special mode). Is expected to be higher). Further, the notice effect executing means is different from the normal mode when displaying the hold display displayed in the normal mode by changing it to the special mode (when executing the prefetch effect based on the third prefetch effect pattern). When the hold display displayed in the display mode (for example, a special mode. The first special mode may be included (details will be described later)) is changed to the special mode and displayed (second pre-reading effect) When the pre-reading effect is executed based on the third pre-reading effect pattern, the display is changed to one of a plurality of special modes at different ratios (when the pre-reading effect is executed based on the pattern). In comparison with the case where the pre-reading effect is executed based on the second pre-reading effect pattern, the ratio of being displayed in the second special mode having a higher expectation is higher). With such a configuration, the possibility that the display result of the variable display becomes the specific display result (big hit) can be notified in advance with different expectations, so that it is possible to enhance the interest of the pre-reading effect.

  Even in the case of the second configuration described above, the final display mode and the prefetch effect pattern can be determined based on the winning determination result, so that the notice effect can be executed with different degrees of expectation, and the normal mode It is possible to change to the first special mode or the second special mode at a different rate when changing from the special mode and when changing from the special mode. Even in the case of the third configuration, the announcement effect can be executed with different expectations by determining the display mode after the change based on the winning determination result. In addition, by determining the display mode after the change based on the determination result at the time of winning and the display mode of the hold display, the first special mode or the rate at which the mode changes from the normal mode and when changing from the special mode It can be changed to the second special mode.

  In addition, since the special mode may change to the special mode among the display modes of the multiple types of hold display used in this embodiment, it has been described as being in a different category from the special mode. The special category with the lowest expected degree of jackpot may be regarded as the same category as the special mode. In other words, in this embodiment, the special mode and the special mode are described separately, and the prefetch effect pattern displayed by changing from the special mode to the special mode (the first special mode or the second special mode) is displayed as the second prefetch. Although it was set as a production pattern, in the pre-reading production, it is only necessary to change from a display mode having a low jackpot expectation level to a display mode having a high jackpot expectation level, and change from the special mode to the first special mode or the second special mode. Or you may change from the 1st special mode to the 2nd special mode with higher expectation degree of jackpot.

  Further, in this embodiment, the notice effect executing means can make the display result of the variable display the specific display result depending on which of the displayed hold displays is changed in display mode. It is possible to execute a pre-reading effect that gives notice in advance with different expectations. For example, when the change timing is early, the rate of change to the second special mode with high jackpot expectation is high, and when the change timing is late, the rate of change to the first special mode with low jackpot expectation is high. This is realized by determining the change timing. In this embodiment, the display mode of the hold display is changed only twice at the maximum. However, the number of display modes can be increased stepwise by increasing the types of display modes. . In this case, when the change timing is early, the chance of changing to a display mode with a higher expectation level (for example, the number of shift timings) is increased, so that the expectation level can be increased. With such a configuration, the possibility that the display result becomes the specific display result can be notified in advance with different expectations, so that it is possible to enhance the interest of the pre-reading effect. Even in the case of the second configuration or the third configuration described above, for example, the hold display corresponding to the determination result at the time of winning, which is shown to be a big hit, is an early stage (a stage where the number of shifts is small). By increasing the rate of change, it is possible to execute a pre-reading effect that gives a notice in different degrees of expectation depending on which display mode of the hold display changes.

  In this embodiment, the display mode of the hold display includes a normal mode and a plurality of display modes (special mode, first special mode, and second special mode) different from the normal mode, and a notice effect is executed. When there is a hold display displayed in a display mode (special mode or first special mode) different from the normal mode among the displayed hold displays, the means is a display different from the normal mode at a high rate. The hold display displayed in the mode is changed to a display mode (first special mode or second special mode) higher than the current level and displayed. This depends on whether or not a new pre-reading effect is executed depending on whether or not a pending change flag indicating that any of the pending displays is displayed in a special mode or a special mode. (Decrease the newly executed ratio when set), determine the change timing of the pre-reading effect to be executed at a different ratio (delay the change timing when set (special mode or In addition to increasing the rate of change after the hold display displayed in the special mode is erased)), the second look-ahead effect pattern displayed by changing from the special mode to the special mode is the normal mode. This is realized by the fact that the ratio determined is higher than the third look-ahead effect pattern displayed in the special mode. By doing so, if there is a hold display that is displayed in a display mode different from the normal mode, the rate of change of the hold display to a display mode at a higher stage than the current stage is high. Can enhance the interest of

  Even in the case of the second configuration described above, if there is a special mode hold display in the effect symbol variation start process, the special mode hold display is displayed at a higher rate than the normal mode hold display. In the pre-reading effect determination process, the second pre-reading effect pattern is determined to be higher than the third pre-reading effect pattern so that the display mode is different from the normal mode. When there is an on-hold display that is displayed, the rate at which the on-hold display is changed to a display mode at a higher stage than the current stage can be increased. In addition, even in the case of the third configuration, when there is a special mode hold display in the effect symbol variation start process, the special mode hold display is changed at a higher rate than the normal mode hold display, and the display mode is changed. By determining as a target to be performed, it is possible to increase the rate at which the hold display displayed in a display mode different from the normal mode changes to a high-level display mode.

  In this embodiment, the notice effect executing means can execute a notice effect that changes the hold display to any one of a plurality of special modes different from the normal mode. Moreover, the display mode of the hold display includes a special mode that is easily changed to a special mode as compared with the normal mode. The notice effect execution means changes to one of the special modes at a different rate when the display is changed from the normal mode to the special mode and when the display is changed from the special mode to the special mode. To display. For example, when the display is changed from the normal mode to the special mode, the ratio of the change to the second special mode with a high degree of jackpot expectation is higher than when the display is changed from the special mode to the special mode. By doing so, the possibility that the display result becomes the specific display result can be notified with different degrees of expectation, and the interest of the notice effect can be enhanced.

  Even in the case of the above-described second configuration, when the final display mode and the prefetch effect pattern are determined based on the winning determination result, the normal mode is changed to the special mode, and the special mode is changed to the special mode. It is possible to change to the first special mode or the second special mode at different ratios. Further, even in the case of the third configuration, when changing from the normal mode to the special mode by determining the display mode after the change based on the determination result at the time of winning and the display mode of the hold display, and from the special mode When changing to the special mode, it can be changed to the first special mode or the second special mode at a different rate.

  Moreover, in this embodiment, the suggestion effect execution means suggests a plurality of types of suggestion effects (the suggestion effects of the first effect mode or the second effect mode) that suggest the possibility that the display mode of the hold display changes with different expectations. Can be executed, and the suggestion effect of the predetermined expectation degree (for example, the suggestion effect of the second effect mode) is executed by the suggestion effect execution means, but the predetermined expectation is not changed when the display mode of the hold display does not change There is suggested suggestion limiting means for restricting execution of a suggestion effect with a lower degree of expectation (for example, a suggestion effect of the first effect mode). For example, although the suggestion effect of the second effect mode is executed, the suggestion effect limit flag is set when the display mode of the hold display does not change, and the expectation level is low while the suggestion effect limit flag is set. Execution of the suggestion effect of the first effect mode is restricted. In addition, the suggestion effect restriction flag is reset when the hold display displayed in a display mode other than the normal mode is deleted. With such a configuration, it is possible to prevent a sense of expectation from being lost.

  Even in the case of the second configuration described above, it is determined whether to change the display mode of any hold display (and which display mode to change) and also determine the presentation mode of the suggestive effect. Thus, it is possible to execute a plurality of types of suggestion effects that suggest the possibility that the display mode of the hold display changes with different degrees of expectation. In addition, even in the case of the third configuration, it is determined which of the corresponding hold display display modes is changed, and the display mode of the hold display may be changed by determining the effect mode of the suggestion effect. It is possible to execute a plurality of types of suggestion effects suggested by different expectations.

  Further, in this embodiment, it is allowed that the pre-reading effects are executed repeatedly, and the display mode of a plurality of hold displays is allowed to change at the same time, but it is limited to change at the same time. It may be. For example, when the change timing of a new prefetch effect is determined, the data indicating the change timing of the prefetch effect previously determined is referred to the winning determination result storage buffer. The change timing of the prefetch effect may be re-determined. By doing in this way, it can be made to pay attention to each production by changing the display mode of a plurality of hold displays at the same time. In addition, as the suggestion effect, predetermined display control is performed in the effect display device 9, but along with (or instead of) this, an effect such as output of sound or lighting of a lamp may be performed.

  Further, in this embodiment, it is possible to change the hold display to the first special mode or the second special mode at a plurality of timings (start winning prize timing, shift timing, etc.), and the hold display is special. When displayed in a mode, the variable display is changed from the special mode to the first special mode or the second special mode before the variable display based on the hold memory corresponding to the hold display is started. It can also be configured to control. With such a configuration, it is possible to give diversity to the timing of changing the display mode, and when the hold display is displayed in a special mode, the special mode is changed to the first special mode or the second special mode. Since the display is changed, it is possible to improve the game entertainment.

  Note that the structure described in the above embodiment can also be applied to a game system called a so-called portable interlocking system. A gaming system called a mobile-linked system generally has a gaming machine that outputs predetermined information based on the establishment of a predetermined condition, and a predetermined privilege for a player based on the predetermined information output by the gaming machine. A privilege granting device for performing the granting process. Specifically, in the gaming system as described above, the gaming machine accumulates the establishment of predetermined conditions such as the number of fluctuations and the number of big hits as a game history, and displays a two-dimensional code or the like as predetermined information when the game ends. To do. In addition, the player uses a portable terminal with a camera function to photograph a two-dimensional code and transmits it to a Web server (privilege granting device) on the Internet. The Web server manages a player's game history based on the received information, and performs a process of giving a predetermined privilege according to the game history. When the configuration shown in the above embodiment is applied to a mobile-linked system, for example, it is assumed that a predetermined condition is met when the hold display is displayed in a special mode and a big hit is made, and the number of times is played on the Web server. It may be managed as a history. Then, according to the number of times the predetermined condition is satisfied, digital content may be transmitted as a predetermined privilege, or the display screen of the gaming machine may be customized.

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

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

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

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

  In the above embodiment, a pachinko machine is taken as an example of the gaming machine. However, according to the present invention, a predetermined number of bets are set by inserting medals, and a plurality of types are set according to the operation of the operation lever by the player. When the symbol is rotated and the symbol is stopped according to the stop button operation by the player, the combination of the stop symbol becomes a specific symbol combination. It is also possible. In the above embodiment, the game machine uses a game medium as an example. However, the game machine according to the present invention is not limited to a game machine that pays out a predetermined number of game media, and a game ball The present invention can also be applied to an enclosed game machine that encloses game media such as the above and gives a score when a prize granting condition is satisfied.

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

  The present invention is applicable to gaming machines such as pachinko gaming machines.

8a First special symbol display 8b Second special symbol display 9 Production display device 13 First start winning port 14 Second start winning port 19a First abnormality notification LED
19b Second abnormality notification LED
20a First special variable winning ball device 20b Second special variable winning ball device 56 CPU
560 Microcomputer for game control 370 Microcomputer for payout control 371 CPU for payout control
374 LED for error display
100 effect control microcomputer 101 effect control CPU

Claims (1)

A gaming machine that performs variable display and can be controlled to an advantageous state advantageous to the player,
Hold storage means for storing information relating to variable display as hold storage;
A hold display means for displaying a hold display in a predetermined display mode corresponding to each hold storage stored in the hold storage means;
Determining means for determining whether to control to the advantageous state;
Variable display control means for controlling variable display based on the determination result by the determination means;
A determination means for determining whether or not to be controlled to the advantageous state before determination by the determination means;
A notice effect executing means for executing a notice effect for notifying the possibility of being controlled to the advantageous state by displaying the hold display in a display form different from the normal form based on the determination result by the determination means; ,
Suggestion effect execution means for executing an suggestion effect suggesting that the display mode of the hold display changes;
A payout means for paying out game media based on the fact that the payout condition is satisfied;
First error notification control means for performing first error notification control based on the fact that the storage unit capable of storing game media is detected as being full;
Second error notification control means for performing second error notification control based on an error relating to the payout means;
An error notifying means that is controlled by at least the first error notifying control means and the second error notifying control means and is capable of notifying an error by changing a display mode of the light emission display;
With
The display mode of the hold display includes the normal mode, the special mode, and a plurality of special modes, which can be changed from the normal mode to any of the special modes, and any of the special mode to the special mode. Can change,
The suggestion effect execution means includes:
A first suggestion effect in which the display mode of the hold display changes after the effect, and a second suggestion effect in which the display mode of the hold display does not change after the effect,
Can and the hold display is displayed in the special aspect is capable of executing a second suggested effect more frequently than when none of the hold display is displayed in the normal manner,
When there is a hold display that is displayed in a display mode different from the normal mode among the hold displays that are displayed by the hold display means, than any of the hold displays that are displayed in the normal mode , The ratio that is determined as a late timing as a timing to change any one of the hold display of the normal mode displayed by the hold display means to a display mode different from the normal mode is high,
The error notification means includes
When controlled by the first error notification control means can execute an error notification according to the first aspect,
When controlled by the second error notification control means is capable of executing error notification by the second aspect differs from the first embodiment,
A gaming machine characterized by that.