JP6632574B2 - Gaming machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine and a slot machine.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there are gaming machines for playing games (for example, pachinko gaming machines and slot machines).

  As such a gaming machine, for example, Patent Literature 1 discloses a first setting unit that sets any one of a plurality of stages as a first sound volume stage based on a first operation performed by an employee of a gaming store; A second setting means for setting any one of a plurality of levels as a second volume level based on a second operation performed by the player; a first volume level set by the first setting means; and the second setting And a sound output control means for outputting a sound of a sound volume corresponding to the second sound volume level set by the means from the sound output unit.

JP 2013-34617 A

  In the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, for example, when the second operation is performed to change the second volume level, the second volume level is displayed in a predetermined display so that the second volume level to be changed is easily understood. It may be displayed in the area. However, in such a case, the second volume level that is actually displayed regardless of the first volume level (the second volume level when the second volume level is first displayed after the setting of the first volume level, etc.) is In some cases, this would be the same, which could lead to a false recognition of the actual volume.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above situation, and has as its object to provide a gaming machine capable of suitably adjusting the volume.

(1) In order to achieve the above object, a gaming machine according to the present invention
A gaming machine for performing a game,
First setting means for setting any one of a plurality of stages as a first sound volume stage based on a first operation performed on the game store side;
A second setting unit configured to set any one of the plurality of stages as a second sound volume stage based on a second operation performed on the player side;
Audio output control means for outputting an audio having a volume based on the first volume level set by the first setting means and the second volume level set by the second setting means from an audio output unit. ,
At a predetermined timing, a stage corresponding to the first volume level set by the first setting means can be set as the second volume level ,
Before Symbol gaming machine, after the start operation is performed at the start of the game, when the end operation is performed when terminating a game, further comprising a game history information output means for outputting the game history information,
The predetermined timing is a timing at which the start operation or the end operation is performed.
It is characterized by the following.
(2) In order to achieve the above object, a gaming machine according to another aspect is provided with:
A gaming machine for performing a game (for example, a pachinko gaming machine 1 or the like),
A first operation (for example, a channel switching operation of the setting switch 300, etc.) performed when the first permission condition for the amusement store is satisfied (for example, when the setting switch 300 is made operable). ), The first setting means (for example, the effect control CPU 120 for setting the first volume level in step S77) for setting any one of the plurality of levels as the first volume level (for example, the first volume level or the like). etc,
A second operation (for example, an operation club of the stick controller 30) performed when the second permission condition for the player is satisfied (for example, when a setting screen for volume adjustment as shown in FIG. 26 is displayed). The second setting means (for example, an effect of setting the second volume level in step S77) based on the operation of the second volume level (for example, the second volume level, etc.) A control CPU 120).
A sound having a volume corresponding to the first volume level set by the first setting unit and the second volume level set by the second setting unit is output from a voice output unit (for example, speakers 8L and 8R). Sound output control means for outputting (for example, effect control CPU 120 or the like for setting a volume based on the first volume level and the second volume level in step S77 and then performing an effect at the set volume);
Display means (for example, image display device 5 or the like) having a display area that can be visually recognized by a player;
Display control means for controlling the display means to control the display content displayed in the display area (for example, displaying a setting screen for volume adjustment as shown in FIG. 26, changing the volume level to be highlighted, etc. Effect control CPU 120 or the like for performing display control).
The display control means,
When the second operation is performed, a step display indicating the second volume level (for example, an area 5HH in which one of a plurality of volume levels is highlighted as a second volume level) is displayed in the display area. (For example, effect control CPU 120 for performing display control for displaying a volume adjustment setting screen as shown in FIG. 26).
The step display is displayed such that the initial display of the step display when displaying the step display is different according to the first volume step set by the first setting means (see, for example, FIG. 24). (For example, effect control CPU 120 for performing display control for displaying an initial display (volume) on a volume adjustment setting screen as shown in FIG. 26 according to the first volume level),
It is characterized by the following.

  According to the above configuration, the sound volume can be suitably adjusted.

  "Audio output control means for outputting an audio having a volume corresponding to the first volume level set by the first setting means and the second volume level set by the second setting means from an audio output unit" Each time a voice is output, a voice having a volume corresponding to both the first volume level and the second volume level may be output, or may be output during a first period (for example, after the first setting, the second setting). During the previous period), an audio having a volume corresponding to at least the first volume level is output, and during a second period (for example, during a period after the second setting), an audio having a volume corresponding to at least the second volume level is output. May be used. For example, when the volume does not depend on the first volume level and depends only on the second volume level, normally (for example, when the second operation is performed) is not based on the first volume level, and is not based on the first volume level. The volume is set in accordance with the two volume levels, and the first volume level is set (for example, when the setting of the second volume level by the second operation is prohibited, or when the initial volume or the initial light amount is set when the power is turned on, etc.). , The volume (for example, the initial volume, etc.) may be set according to the first volume level, not based on the second volume level.

  The “initial display of the stage display when displaying the stage display” may be, for example, a stage display first displayed after the first volume stage is set by the first setting unit, The stage display may be the first stage display that is displayed after the power of the gaming machine is turned on, or may be the first stage display that is displayed in one period during which the second operation can be performed. Good. Note that the initial display when the stage display is displayed for the first time after the second operation is performed may indicate the second volume stage before being changed by the second operation. That is, the initial display may indicate a volume level corresponding to the first volume level after the first operation is performed and before the second operation is performed, and is not actually displayed. You may.

  "Different according to the first volume level set by the first setting means" means that the second volume level changes corresponding to at least a part of the possible changes of the first volume level. This is an expression that includes For example, the second volume level may change by one step each time the first volume level changes by one level, or may change by one level when the first volume level changes by a plurality of levels. That is, the first volume level and the second volume level do not need to change one-to-one.

(3) In the gaming machine of (2) above,
The display control unit increases the second volume level indicated by the initial display as the first volume level set by the first setting unit is higher (for example, see FIG. 24).
You may do so.

  According to such a configuration, the relationship between the first volume level and the second volume level can be easily grasped, so that the volume can be suitably adjusted.

(4) In the gaming machine of (2) or (3) above,
The audio output control means, when the second volume level is newly set by the second setting means, causes the audio output unit to output a confirmation sound indicating that the second volume level has been newly set, and the first setting When the first volume level is newly set by the means, a confirmation sound indicating that the first volume level is newly set is not output from the audio output unit (for example, the effect control CPU 120 determines in step S77 that the second volume level Is set, the output of the confirmation sound is controlled, but when the first volume level is set, the output control of the confirmation sound is not performed.)
You may do so.

  According to such a configuration, the setting can be confirmed even with sound in the second sound volume stage, so that the sound volume can be suitably adjusted.

(5) In the gaming machine according to any one of (2) to (4),
The plurality of possible steps of the first sound volume level set by the first setting means include a limiting step of restricting the second setting means from setting the second volume level (for example, a first step). The volume stage includes “A” to “F”, etc.),
The gaming machine is configured to perform setting restriction for restricting the second setting means from setting the second volume level when the first setting section sets the restriction level as the first volume level. Further comprising a limiting unit (for example, when “A” to “F” is set as the first volume level, control is performed to display a menu screen without an item of “volume / light amount adjustment”).
You may do so.

  In such a configuration, the volume setting on the player side can be restricted, and audio output at a volume not intended by the gaming store can be prevented.

(6) In the gaming machine of (5),
The display control means, during the period in which the second permission condition is satisfied, when the setting restriction is performed by the setting restriction means, a corresponding image corresponding to the satisfaction of the second permission condition ( For example, a menu screen having an item of “volume / light quantity adjustment” is displayed in the display area, and the corresponding image is not displayed in the display area when the setting restriction is not performed (for example, “volume / light quantity adjustment”). Control to display a menu screen without "volume / light intensity adjustment" instead of a menu with "adjustment"),
You may do so.

  According to such a configuration, the player can be notified that the setting of the second volume level is restricted.

(7) In the gaming machine of (5) above,
A predetermined effect execution unit that executes a predetermined effect in response to the second operation being performed while the setting restriction is being performed by the setting restriction unit (for example, the channel of the setting changeover switch 300 is “A” to When the second operation is performed in the case of “F”, the effect control CPU 120 that performs output control of a buzzer sound indicating that the volume cannot be changed) is further provided.
You may do so.

  According to such a configuration, the player can be notified that the setting of the second volume level is restricted.

(8) In the gaming machine according to any one of the above (2) to (7),
The second setting means clears the set second volume level at a predetermined timing (for example, when it can be determined that the player has changed), and performs an initial setting step (for example, initial display (volume), etc.) ) Is set as the second volume level (for example, effect control CPU 120 that resets the second volume level to the initial volume when it can be determined that the player has changed),
The first volume level set by the first setting means is changed only based on the first operation (for example, since the setting change switch 300 is a physical switch, there is no reset).
You may do so.

  In such a configuration, it is possible to prevent a game from being played while the second volume level set by the second setting means is unintentionally dragged.

It is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine in one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a configuration diagram illustrating examples of various control boards and the like mounted on the pachinko gaming machine of FIG. 1. FIG. 2 is a configuration diagram showing an example of an internal configuration when the pachinko gaming machine of FIG. 1 is viewed from the back. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of an effect control board when the pachinko gaming machine of FIG. 1 is viewed from the back. It is a figure of a setting change switch. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a main control command. It is a flow chart which shows an example of special design process processing. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a start winning determination process. It is a figure showing random number value MR1-MR3. It is a figure showing the example of composition of a special figure reservation storage part. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a special symbol normal process. It is an explanatory view showing an example of composition of a special figure display result decision table. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of a structure of a big hit type determination table. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a fluctuation pattern setting process. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a configuration example of a variation pattern. It is a figure showing the example of composition of a big hit variation pattern decision table. It is a figure showing the example of composition of a losing change pattern decision table. It is a flow chart which shows an example of production control main processing. It is explanatory drawing explaining the relationship between an example of the control command received by the effect control board side, and an example of the processing content performed in the command analysis processing according to the received control command. It is a flowchart which shows an example of effect control process processing. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a variable display start setting process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the effect processing during variable display. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a volume setting process. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of a relationship between a state (channel) of a setting changeover switch and a sound volume, a light amount, and the like set in a sound volume setting process. FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining setting timings of a volume and a light amount. It is a figure which shows the setting screen displayed when changing the 2nd sound volume stage and the 2nd light volume stage used for setting of a volume and a light volume (namely, when changing a volume and a light volume by operation by a player). 9 is a flowchart illustrating a part of a volume setting process according to a modification. FIG. 11 is a diagram for describing timings for setting a volume and a light amount in a modified example. FIG. 17 is a diagram showing a setting screen displayed when changing a second volume level or a second light level used for setting a volume or a light quantity in a modification (that is, when changing a volume or a light quantity by an operation by a player). is there. It is an example figure of an effect screen in a modification. It is an example figure of an effect screen in a modification. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a relationship between a state (channel) of a setting changeover switch and a volume. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a relationship between a state (channel) of a setting changeover switch and a volume. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a relationship between a state (channel) of a setting changeover switch and a volume. FIG. 10 is a system configuration diagram according to a modification. It is an example figure of an effect screen in a modification.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine according to the present embodiment, showing an arrangement layout of main members. The pachinko gaming machine (gaming machine) 1 is roughly divided into a gaming board (gauge board) 2 constituting a gaming board surface, and a gaming machine frame (base frame) 3 for supporting and fixing the gaming board 2. The game board 2 has a substantially circular game area surrounded by guide rails. In this game area, a game ball as a game medium is fired from a predetermined hitting ball firing device.

  A first special symbol display device 4A and a second special symbol display device 4B are provided at predetermined positions of the game board 2 (to the right of the game area in the example shown in FIG. 1). Each of the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B is composed of, for example, a 7-segment or dot matrix LED (light emitting diode), and identifies each of them in a special figure game which is an example of a variable display game. A special symbol (also referred to as a "special figure"), which is a plurality of types of identification information (special identification information), is displayed (variably displayed) in a variable manner. For example, each of the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B variably displays a plurality of types of special symbols including numbers indicating “0” to “9”, symbols indicating “−”, and the like. I do. Thereafter, the fixed special symbol is stopped and displayed as a variable display result in the special figure game. The fixed special symbol may be different from the special symbol displayed during the variable display.

  Note that the special symbols displayed on the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B are limited to those composed of numbers indicating "0" to "9", symbols indicating "-", and the like. Instead, for example, there are a plurality of types of lighting patterns (a pattern in which all the LEDs are turned off may be included as a lighting pattern as appropriate) in which combinations of lighting and turning off of the seven-segment LEDs are different. What is necessary is just to set in advance as a special symbol. Hereinafter, the special symbol variably displayed on the first special symbol display device 4A is also referred to as “first special symbol”, and the special symbol variably displayed on the second special symbol display device 4B is also referred to as “second special symbol”. .

  An image display device 5 is provided near the center of the game area on the game board 2. The image display device 5 includes, for example, an LCD (liquid crystal display device), and forms a display area for displaying various effect images. On the screen of the image display device 5, the variable display of the first special figure by the first special symbol display device 4A and the variable display of the second special figure by the second special symbol display device 4B in the special figure game are respectively supported. For example, in a decorative design display area serving as a plurality of variable display units, for example, three, a decorative design, which is a plurality of types of identification information (decoration identification information) each of which can be identified, is variably displayed. The variable display of the decorative pattern is also included in the variable display game.

  As an example, “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R are arranged on the screen of the image display device 5. Then, in response to the start of any one of the change of the first special figure in the first special symbol display device 4A and the change of the second special figure in the second special symbol display device 4B in the special figure game, In the decorative pattern display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R of "left", "middle", and "right", the change of the decorative pattern (for example, scroll display in the vertical direction) is started. Thereafter, when the fixed special symbol is stopped and displayed as a variable display result in the special figure game, the decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R of the "left", "middle", and "right" on the image display device 5 are displayed. Then, the fixed decoration symbol (final stop symbol) which is the variable display result of the decoration symbol is stopped and displayed. Note that the finalized decorative symbol may be different from the decorative symbol displayed during the variable display. For example, a decorative symbol other than the scroll-displayed decorative symbol may be the determined decorative symbol.

  As described above, on the screen of the image display device 5, a special figure game using the first special figure (also referred to as a first special figure game) in the first special symbol display apparatus 4A or the second special symbol display apparatus. In synchronization with the special figure game using the second special figure in 4B (also referred to as a second special figure game), variable display of a plurality of types of decorative patterns, each of which is identifiable, is performed, and a fixed decoration is obtained as a variable display result. The symbol is derived and displayed (or simply referred to as "derived"). Deriving and displaying various display symbols, such as a special symbol and a decorative symbol, means stopping the identification information of the decorative symbol or the like (also referred to as complete stop display or final stop display) and terminating the variable display. . On the other hand, during the variable display from the start of the variable display of the decorative symbol to the derivation and display of the fixed decorative symbol as the variable display result, the fluctuation speed of the decorative symbol becomes “0” and the decorative symbol becomes “0”. The design may be stopped and displayed, for example, in a display state that causes slight shaking, expansion and contraction, and the like. Such a display state is also referred to as a temporary stop display, and although the display result in the variable display is not steadily displayed, the player can recognize that the fluctuation of the decorative symbol due to the scroll display or the update display is not progressing. Becomes Note that the temporary stop display may include, for example, completely displaying the decorative symbol for a shorter time than a predetermined time (for example, one second) without causing slight shaking or expansion / contraction.

  On the screen of the image display device 5, a display area 5H is arranged. In the display area 5H, a hold storage display for displaying the variable display hold number (special figure hold storage number) corresponding to the special figure game in a identifiable manner is performed. The suspension of the variable display corresponding to the special figure game is such that the game ball enters the first starting winning opening formed by the normal winning prize ball device 6A or the second starting winning opening formed by the normal variable prize ball device 6B (for example, It is generated based on the start winning prize due to passing. That is, a start condition (also referred to as an “execution condition”) for executing a variable display game such as a special figure game or a variable display of a decorative symbol is satisfied, but the variable display game based on the previously established start condition is being executed. Due to the fact that the pachinko gaming machine 1 is controlled to the big hit gaming state, when the start condition allowing the start of the variable display game is not established, the suspension of the variable display corresponding to the established start condition is performed. Done. In this embodiment, the same number of symbols (in the present embodiment, circles, squares, and the like, and hereinafter, also referred to as hold display symbols) are displayed on the hold storage display in the same number as the held variable display. By doing. The suspended variable display corresponding to the special figure game using the first special figure is represented by a reserved display symbol displayed in a left area (first reserved display area) in the display area 5H. The suspended variable display corresponding to the special figure game using the second special figure is represented by a reserved display symbol displayed in a right area (second reserved display area) in the display area 5H.

  For example, the start condition (first start condition) of the special figure game using the first special figure by the first special symbol display device 4A is established by the occurrence of the first start winning in which the game ball enters the first start winning opening. In this case, if the first start condition for starting the special figure game using the first special figure based on the establishment of the first start condition is not satisfied, the first special figure reserved storage number is incremented by one (increment). The execution of the special figure game using the first special figure is suspended. In addition, the start condition (second start condition) of the special figure game using the second special figure by the second special symbol display device 4B is established by the occurrence of the second start winning in which the game ball enters the second start winning opening. In this case, if the second start condition for starting the special figure game using the second special figure based on the establishment of the second start condition is not satisfied, the second special figure reserved storage number is incremented by one (increment). ), And the execution of the special figure game using the second special figure is suspended. On the other hand, when the execution of the special figure game using the first special figure starts, the reserved data (reserved storage) is digested, the first special figure reserved storage number is decremented by 1, and the second reserved figure is decremented. When the execution of the special figure game using the special figure starts, the reserved data (reserved storage) is digested, and the second special figure reserved stored number is decremented by one (decrement). When the hold data is consumed, the corresponding hold display symbol is deleted. Further, when another suspended display symbol is displayed in the display area in which the erased suspended display symbol is displayed among the first suspended display area and the second suspended display area, the displayed suspended display symbol is displayed. The symbol is shifted, for example, to the left display position (including the display position where the erased hold display symbol was displayed).

  The variable number of special figure reserved storage numbers obtained by adding the first special figure reserved storage number and the second special figure reserved storage number is particularly called the total reserved storage number. When simply referred to as “the number of special figure reserved storages”, it generally refers to a concept including any of the first special figure reserved storage number, the second special figure reserved storage number, and the total reserved storage number. (The concept includes the first special figure reserved storage number and the second special figure reserved storage number, but excludes the total reserved storage number).

  A display may be provided for displaying the number of special figure reservation storages together with or instead of the display area 5H. In the example shown in FIG. 1, a first reservation display 25A for displaying the number of special figure reservation storages on the upper part of the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B together with the display area 5H. And a second hold display 25B. The first reservation display 25A displays the first special figure reservation storage number in a identifiable manner. The second reservation display 25B displays the second special figure reservation storage number in a identifiable manner. The first reservation display 25A and the second reservation display 25B each have a number (for example, four) corresponding to the upper limit (for example, “4”) in each of the first special figure reservation storage number and the second special figure reservation storage number, respectively. ) LEDs. Here, the first special figure reserved storage number and the second special figure reserved storage number are displayed by the number of lighting of the LED.

  Below the image display device 5, a normal winning ball device 6A and a normal variable winning ball device 6B are provided. The normal winning prize ball device 6A forms a first starting winning opening as a starting area (first starting area) that is always kept in a fixed open state by a predetermined ball receiving member, for example. The ordinary variable winning ball device 6B is an electric tulip-type accessory having a pair of movable wings that is changed between a closed state at a vertical position and an open state at a tilt position by a solenoid 81 for an ordinary electric accessory shown in FIG. (Ordinary electric accessory) to form a second starting winning opening.

  As an example, in the normally variable winning prize ball device 6B, when the solenoid 81 for the normal electric accessory is in the off state, the movable wing piece is in the vertical position, so that the game ball does not enter the second starting winning opening. To On the other hand, in the ordinary variable winning ball device 6B, when the solenoid 81 for the ordinary electric accessory is in the ON state, the movable wing piece is in the tilting position, so that the game ball can enter the second starting winning opening. State. The normally variable winning prize ball device 6B is in a normal open state when the solenoid 81 is in an off state, and allows a game ball to enter the second starting winning opening, while being in an expanded open state when the solenoid 81 is in an on state. Alternatively, the game ball may be configured to be difficult to enter. As described above, the normally variable winning prize ball device 6B has the second starting winning opening in the first variable state (an easy-to-enter state) such as an open state in which a game ball can enter or an enlarged open state, and a closed state in which a game ball cannot enter. It is configured to be able to change to a second variable state (a difficult-to-enter state (including a non-accessible state) state) such as a state or a normal open state that is difficult to enter. The first variable state may be any state as long as the game ball can easily enter the second starting winning opening compared to the second variable state.

  A game ball that has entered the first starting winning opening formed in the normal winning ball device 6A is detected by, for example, the first starting switch 22A shown in FIG. A game ball that has entered the second starting winning opening formed in the normal variable winning ball device 6B is detected by, for example, the second starting opening switch 22B shown in FIG. Based on the detection of the game balls by the first starting port switch 22A, a predetermined number (for example, three) of game balls are paid out as prize balls (prize game media), and the first special figure reserved storage number is a predetermined number. If it is less than the upper limit (for example, “4”), the first start condition is satisfied. Based on the detection of the game ball by the second starting port switch 22B, a predetermined number (for example, three) of game balls are paid out as prize balls, and the second special figure reserved storage number is less than a predetermined upper limit value. If so, the second start condition is satisfied.

  The number of prize balls paid out based on the detection of a game ball by the first starting port switch 22A and the number of prize balls paid out based on the detection of a game ball by the second starting port switch 22B May be the same number or different numbers. The pachinko gaming machine 1 may directly pay out gaming balls that become prize balls, or may give points corresponding to the number of gaming balls that become prize balls.

  A special variable winning ball device 7 is provided below the normal winning ball device 6A and the normal variable winning ball device 6B. The special variable winning ball device 7 includes a special winning opening door that is driven to be opened and closed by a solenoid 82 serving as a special winning opening door shown in FIG. 2, and a specific area that changes between an open state and a closed state by the special winning opening door. As a big winning opening as.

  As an example, in the special variable winning prize ball device 7, when the solenoid 82 for the special winning opening door is in the off state, the special winning opening door closes the special winning opening, and the game ball enters the special winning opening (for example, Pass). On the other hand, in the special variable winning ball device 7, when the solenoid 82 for the special winning opening door is on, the special winning opening door opens the large winning opening, so that the game ball can easily enter the special winning opening. Become. As described above, the special winning opening as the specific area is changed into an open state in which the game balls are easy to enter, which is advantageous for the player, and a closed state in which the game balls cannot enter, which is disadvantageous for the player. In addition, instead of the closed state in which the game ball cannot enter the special winning opening, or in addition to the closed state, a partially open state in which the game ball does not easily enter the special winning opening may be provided.

  The game ball that has entered the special winning opening is detected by, for example, the count switch 23 shown in FIG. Based on the detection of a game ball by the count switch 23, a predetermined number (for example, 14) of game balls are paid out as prize balls. Thus, when the game ball enters the large winning opening that has been opened in the special variable winning ball device 7, when the gaming ball enters another winning opening, for example, the first starting winning opening or the second starting winning opening. More award balls are paid out. Therefore, when the special winning opening is opened in the special variable winning ball device 7, the game ball can enter the special winning opening, and the first state is advantageous to the player. On the other hand, if the special winning opening is closed in the special variable winning ball device 7, it becomes impossible or difficult to obtain a prize ball by entering a game ball into the special winning opening, and it becomes more difficult to play a game than in the first state. The second state is disadvantageous for the person.

  At a predetermined position of the game board 2 (in the example shown in FIG. 1, on the left side of the game area), a normal symbol display 20 is provided. As an example, the ordinary symbol display device 20 is configured by a 7-segment or dot matrix LED or the like like the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B, for example, a plurality of types different from the special symbol. Ordinary symbols (also called “ordinary symbols” or “ordinary symbols”) that are identification information are variably displayed (variably displayed). Such a variable display of ordinary symbols is called an ordinary game (also referred to as a “normal game”). Above the ordinary symbol display 20, there is provided an ordinary symbol holding display 25 </ b> C. The general-purpose display 25C includes, for example, four LEDs, and a pass gate 41 formed in a game area (a predetermined member is formed to allow a game ball to pass therethrough. Is detected by the gate switch 21).

  On the surface of the game board 2, in addition to the above-described configuration, a windmill for changing the flowing direction and speed of the game ball and a number of obstacle nails are provided. Further, as a winning opening different from the first starting winning opening, the second starting winning opening, and the big winning opening, for example, a single or a plurality of general winning openings that are always kept in a fixed open state by a predetermined ball receiving member are provided. You may be. In this case, a predetermined number (for example, 10) of game balls may be paid out as prize balls based on detection of a game ball that has entered any of the general prize holes by a predetermined general prize ball switch. At the bottom of the game area, there is provided an out port for taking in a game ball that has not entered any of the winning ports.

  Speakers 8L and 8R for reproducing and outputting sound and the like are provided at upper left and right positions of the gaming machine frame 3, and a gaming effect lamp 9 is provided around the gaming area. A decorative LED may be arranged around each structure (for example, the normal prize ball device 6A, the normal variable prize ball device 6B, the special variable prize ball device 7, etc.) in the game area of the pachinko gaming machine 1. At a lower right position of the gaming machine frame 3, a hit ball operation handle (operation knob) operated by a player or the like to fire a game ball as a game medium toward the game area is provided. For example, the hit ball operation handle adjusts the resilience of a game ball in accordance with the amount of operation (the amount of rotation) by a player or the like.

  At a predetermined position of the gaming machine frame 3 below the game area, a game ball paid out as a prize ball or a game ball loaned by a predetermined ball rental machine is held so that it can be supplied to the hitting ball launching device (reservation). ) Is provided. At the lower part of the gaming machine frame 3, there is provided a lower plate that holds (retains) excess balls overflowing from the upper plate so as to be able to be discharged to the outside of the pachinko gaming machine 1.

  The member that forms the lower plate is provided with, for example, a stick controller 30 that can be gripped and tilted by the player at a predetermined position on the near side of the upper surface of the lower plate body (for example, the center portion of the lower plate). I have. The stick controller 30 includes an operation rod held by a player, and a trigger button 31A is provided at a predetermined position of the operation rod (for example, a position where an operator's index finger is hooked when the player grips the operation rod). ing. The trigger button 31A allows a predetermined instruction operation to be performed by, for example, performing a push-pull operation with a predetermined operation finger (eg, an index finger) in a state where the player holds the operation stick of the stick controller 30 with the operation hand (eg, the left hand). What is necessary is just to be comprised. A trigger sensor 35A (see FIG. 2) for detecting a predetermined instruction operation such as a push-pull operation on the trigger button 31A may be built in the operation stick. A tilt direction sensor unit 32 that detects a tilt operation on the operation rod may be provided in a lower portion of the stick controller 30 inside the main body of the lower plate. The tilt direction sensor unit 32 may include a transmissive photo sensor or the like, and may be any unit that detects the tilt direction (for example, front, rear, left and right directions) of the operation club. The mounting position of the stick controller 30 on the lower plate is not limited to the central portion of the lower plate, and may be a position shifted to the left or right.

  The member forming the upper plate includes, for example, a push button 31B at a predetermined position (for example, above the stick controller 30) on the near side on the upper surface of the upper plate main body, which allows a player to perform a predetermined instruction operation by a pressing operation or the like. Is provided. The push button 31B may be configured to be able to mechanically, electrically, or electromagnetically detect a predetermined instruction operation such as a pressing operation from a player. A push sensor 35B (see FIG. 2) that detects a player's operation performed on the push button 31B may be provided inside the main body of the upper plate at the installation position of the push button 31B. In the configuration example shown in FIG. 1, the mounting positions of the push button 31 </ b> B and the stick controller 30 are in a vertical positional relationship at the center of the upper plate and the lower plate. On the other hand, the mounting position of the push button 31 </ b> B and the stick controller 30 may be set to a position on the upper plate and the lower plate that is shifted to the right or left while maintaining the vertical positional relationship. Alternatively, the mounting positions of the push button 31B and the stick controller 30 may not be in the vertical position but may be in the left and right positional relationship, for example.

  The trigger button 31 </ b> A provided on the stick controller 30 is configured to be capable of performing an instruction operation by pushing and pulling with an operating finger while the player holds the operating rod of the stick controller 30 with the operating hand. . On the other hand, the push button 31B is provided at a predetermined position of the gaming machine frame 3 forming an upper plate separately from the stick controller 30, and in a state where the player does not grip the operation rod of the stick controller 30 or the like. It is configured such that an instruction operation can be performed by performing a pressing operation with an operating hand.

  Various control boards such as a main board 11, an effect control board 12, an audio control board 13, a lamp control board 14, and a payout control board 37 as shown in FIG. 2 are mounted on the pachinko gaming machine 1, for example. The pachinko gaming machine 1 is also provided with a relay board 15 for relaying various control signals transmitted between the main board 11 and the effect control board 12. In addition, various boards such as an information terminal board, a launch control board, an interface board, and a touch sensor board are arranged on the back of the game board or the like in the pachinko gaming machine 1. The pachinko gaming machine 1 is also provided with a power supply board 90 (FIG. 3) for supplying power to each board and the like.

  The main board 11 is a control board on the main side, on which various circuits for controlling the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1 are mounted. The main board 11 mainly has a function of setting a random number used in a special figure game, a function of receiving a signal from a switch or the like disposed at a predetermined position, a sub-side control board including an effect control board 12, a payout control board 19, and the like. And a function of outputting a control command as an example of command information (such as an effect control command to be described later) as a control signal and transmitting the same, a function of outputting various information to a hall management computer, and the like. In addition, the main board 11 performs lighting / extinguishing control of each LED (for example, a segment LED) constituting the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B to perform the first special symbol or the second special symbol. Variable display of a predetermined display symbol, such as controlling the variable display of the normal symbol, and controlling the variable display of the normal symbol by the ordinary symbol display 20 by controlling lighting / turning off / coloring of the ordinary symbol display 20. It also has a control function. Further, the main board 11 also has a function of controlling the first hold display 25A, the second hold display 25B, the general-purpose hold display 25C, and the like, and displaying the various numbers of stored storage.

  On the main board 11, for example, a game control microcomputer 100, an input driver circuit 110, a solenoid circuit 111, and the like are mounted. The input driver circuit 110 captures detection signals (detection signals indicating that the passage or ingress of the game medium has been detected (the switch has been turned on)) from various switches for detecting game balls, and a microcomputer for controlling the game. Transmit to 100. The solenoid circuit 111 transmits a solenoid drive signal (for example, a signal for turning on the solenoid 81 or the solenoid 82) from the game control microcomputer 100 to a solenoid 81 for an ordinary electric accessory or a solenoid for a special winning opening door. 82.

  The effect control board 12 is a sub-side control board that is independent of the main board 11, receives control signals transmitted from the main board 11 via the relay board 15, and displays the image display device 5, the speaker 8 </ b> L, Various circuits for controlling the production operation by the production electric components such as the 8R and the game effect lamp 9 and the decoration LED are mounted. In other words, the effect control board 12 performs all or a part of the display operation on the image display device 5 or all or part of the sound output operation from the speakers 8L and 8R, and all or one of the lighting / extinguishing operations of the game effect lamp 9 and the decoration LED. It has a function of causing a production electric component, such as a unit, to execute a predetermined production operation.

  The sound control board 13 is a control board for sound output control provided separately from the effect control board 12, and based on a signal (audio signal) from the effect control board 12, sounds (audio signals) And a processing circuit for executing audio signal processing for outputting an audio signal designated by the user. It should be noted that the sound also includes a sound composed only of a sound (for example, a song composed only of a performance without a song, a sound effect, and the like). The lamp control board 14 is a control board for lamp output control provided separately from the effect control board 12, and based on a signal (illumination signal) from the effect control board 12, the gaming effect lamp 9 and the decoration LED. And the like, a lamp driver circuit or the like for performing lighting / light-out driving (lighting / light-out according to the driving content indicated by the illumination signal) is mounted.

  The payout control board 37 is a board that controls payout of award balls, and has a payout control microcomputer mounted thereon. The payout control board 19 drives the ball payout device 97 in response to the reception of the prize ball number command in which data indicating the prize ball number is set (transmitted as a control signal from the main board 11), and the prize ball. Execute the payout.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the main board 11 transmits detection signals from various switches such as a gate switch 21, a starting port switch (a first starting port switch 22A and a second starting port switch 22B), and a count switch 23. Wiring is connected. The various switches may be any switches having an arbitrary configuration that can detect a game ball as a game medium, such as a sensor (for example, a photosensor, a proximity switch, etc.) (game medium). And any other device than the switch may be used.) The main board 11 is connected to wires for transmitting command signals for performing display control of the first special symbol display device 4A, the second special symbol display device 4B, the ordinary symbol display device 20, and the like. Further, the main board 11 is connected to a wiring for transmitting a solenoid drive signal for driving a solenoid 81 for a normal electric accessory and a solenoid 82 for a special winning opening door. Further, the main board 11 is connected with wiring for transmitting a winning ball number command or the like as a control signal to the payout control board 19.

  A control signal (control command) transmitted from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12 is relayed by the relay board 15. The control command transmitted from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12 via the relay board 15 is, for example, an effect control command (to be described in detail later). Each control command has, for example, a 2-byte configuration. The first byte indicates MODE (classification of command), and the second byte indicates EXT (type of command). It is sufficient that the first bit (bit 7) of the MODE data is always set to “1” and the first bit of the EXT data is set to “0”.

  The game control microcomputer 100 mounted on the main board 11 is, for example, a one-chip microcomputer, and includes a ROM (Read Only Memory) 101 that stores a game control program and fixed data, and a game control work. A RAM (Random Access Memory) 102 that provides an area, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 103 that executes a game control program to perform a control operation, and updates numerical data indicating a random value independently of the CPU 103 It comprises a random number circuit 104 to be performed and an I / O (Input / Output port) 105.

  As an example, in the game control microcomputer 100, the CPU 103 executes a program read from the ROM 101, thereby performing a process for controlling the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1 (for example, realizing the function of the main board 11). For example) is executed. At this time, a fixed data reading operation in which the CPU 103 reads fixed data from the ROM 101, a variable data writing operation in which the CPU 103 writes and temporarily stores various variable data in the RAM 102, and a variable data writing operation in which the CPU 103 temporarily stores various variable data in the RAM 102 Reading operation, CPU 103 receiving an input of various signals from the outside of the game control microcomputer 100 via the I / O 105, CPU 103 moving out of the game control microcomputer 100 via the I / O 105 And a transmission operation for outputting various signals.

  Note that the one-chip microcomputer that constitutes the game control microcomputer 100 only needs to include at least the RAM 103 in addition to the CPU 103, and the ROM 101, the random number circuit 104, the I / O 105, and the like may be externally attached.

  In the game control microcomputer 100, for example, the random number circuit 104 counts updatable numerical data indicating various random numbers used for controlling the progress of the game. The random numbers used to control the progress of the game are also called game random numbers. The game random number may be updated by hardware such as the random number circuit 104, or may be updated by software when the CPU 103 of the game control microcomputer 100 executes a predetermined computer program. You may. For example, numerical data indicating a predetermined random value is stored in a random counter provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 102 in the game control microcomputer 100 or a random counter provided in an internal register separate from the RAM 102, and the CPU 103 The random number value may be updated by updating the stored value periodically or irregularly.

  The ROM 101 included in the game control microcomputer 100 stores various selection data and table data used for controlling the progress of the game, in addition to a game control program. For example, the ROM 101 stores data constituting a plurality of determination tables, determination tables, setting tables, and the like prepared for the CPU 103 to perform various determinations, determinations, and settings. Further, the ROM 101 stores table data constituting a plurality of command transmission tables used for the CPU 103 to transmit control signals serving as various control commands from the main board 11 and a fluctuation pattern table for storing a plurality of types of fluctuation patterns. Table data and the like to be configured are stored.

  Various data (including various flags, counters, timers, and the like) used for controlling the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1 are temporarily stored in a RAM 102 provided in the game control microcomputer 100 in a rewritable manner. . The RAM 102 is a backup RAM as a non-volatile storage unit, part or all of which is backed up by a backup power supply created on a power supply board. In other words, for example, even if there is a power failure or the like and the power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 1 is stopped (so-called power interruption or the like), the backup power supply is discharged for a predetermined period (for example, when the capacitor as the backup power supply is discharged) Until the power cannot be supplied), some or all of the contents of the RAM 102 are saved. In particular, at least data corresponding to the game state, that is, the control state of the game control means (such as a special symbol process flag) and the data indicating the number of unpaid prize balls are stored in the backup RAM. The data stored in the backup RAM and backed up in this way is appropriately referred to as backup data.

  The I / O 105 includes, for example, an input port to which various signals are input from the outside of the game control microcomputer 100 and an output port for transmitting various signals to the outside of the game control microcomputer 100. You.

  The effect control board 12 includes an effect control CPU 120 for performing a control operation according to a program, a ROM 121 for storing an effect control program and fixed data, a RAM 122 for providing a work area of the effect control CPU 120, and an image display device. 5, a display control unit 123 that executes processing for controlling a display operation, a random number circuit 124 that updates numerical data indicating a random number value independently of the effect control CPU 120, and an I / O 125. I have.

  As an example, in the effect control board 12, the effect control CPU 120 executes the effect control program read from the ROM 121, thereby performing the effect operation by the effect electric components and the operation of notifying the abnormality (the effect control effect). A process for realizing a function of causing the component to execute a predetermined effect operation or the like is executed. At this time, the effect control CPU 120 reads fixed data from the ROM 121, a fixed data reading operation, the effect control CPU 120 writes various variable data in the RAM 122, and temporarily stores the variable data, and the effect control CPU 120 A fluctuation data reading operation for reading various fluctuation data temporarily stored, a reception operation in which the effect control CPU 120 receives input of various signals from outside the effect control board 12 via the I / O 125, and an effect control CPU 120 A transmission operation of outputting various signals to the outside of the effect control board 12 via the O125 is also performed.

  The effect control CPU 120, the ROM 121, and the RAM 122 may be included in a one-chip effect control microcomputer mounted on the effect control board 12. The effect control board 12 includes wiring for transmitting a video signal to the image display device 5, wiring for transmitting an audio signal as an information signal indicating sound number data to the audio control board 13, and a lamp. Wiring or the like for transmitting an illumination signal as an information signal indicating lamp data is connected to the control board 14. In addition, the effect control board 12 includes a wiring for transmitting an operation detection signal as an information signal indicating that the player's operation on the trigger button 31A has been detected from the trigger sensor 35A, and a player for the push button 31B. A wire for transmitting an operation detection signal as an information signal indicating that the operation of the player has been detected from the push sensor 35B, and an information signal indicating that the operation of the player on the operation stick of the stick controller 30 has been detected. Wiring for transmitting the operation detection signal from the tilt direction sensor unit 32 is also connected.

  In the effect control board 12, for example, the random number circuit 124 counts updatable numerical data indicating various random numbers used for controlling the effect operation. The random number used for controlling such a production operation is also referred to as a production random number.

  The ROM 121 mounted on the effect control board 12 shown in FIG. 2 stores various data tables used for controlling the effect operation in addition to the effect control program. For example, the ROM 121 stores table data constituting a plurality of determination tables and decision tables prepared for the effect control CPU 120 to perform various determinations, determinations, and settings, and pattern data constituting various effect control patterns. It is remembered. The effect control pattern is a group of data for executing various effects such as a variable display of a decorative pattern and a reach effect, for example, effect control execution data (display control) associated with a determination value such as a process timer determination value. Data, audio control data, lamp control data, drive control data, etc.) and process data including an end code.

  The RAM 122 mounted on the effect control board 12 stores various data (including various flags, counters, timers, and the like) used for controlling the effect operation. Since the RAM 122 is not a backup RAM, stored data is lost when power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 1 is stopped (that is, when there is a power failure).

The display control unit 123 mounted on the effect control board 12 is based on a display control command or the like from the effect control CPU 120 (for example, the display control unit 123 is controlled by the effect control CPU 120 by this command). The control content of the display operation in the image display device 5 is determined and executed. For example, the effect control CPU 120 determines the timing of switching effect images to be displayed on the display screen of the image display device 5 and instructs the display control unit 123 to perform variable display of decorative symbols and various effect displays, The control for causing the image display device 5 to execute a notification display of an abnormality or the like is performed. As an example, the display control unit 123 includes a VDP (Video Display Processor) and a CGROM (Character Generator).
ROM, VRAM (Video RAM), LCD drive circuit, and the like may be mounted. The VDP may be an image processing microprocessor called a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), a GCL (Graphics Controller LSI), or more generally a DSP (Digital Signal Processor). The CGROM may be, for example, a non-rewritable semiconductor memory, a rewritable semiconductor memory such as a flash memory, or a nonvolatile memory such as a magnetic memory or an optical memory. Any configuration may be used.

  The I / O 125 mounted on the effect control board 12 has, for example, an input port for receiving an effect control command transmitted from the main board 11 and the like, and an output port for transmitting various signals to the outside of the effect control board 12. It is comprised including. For example, from an output port of the I / O 125, a video signal (a signal output from the display control unit 123) for displaying an image transmitted to the image display device 5 and a video signal to the audio control board 13 are transmitted. An audio signal, an illumination signal transmitted to the lamp control board 14, and the like are output.

  Further, on the effect control board 12, a setting changeover switch 300 for setting a first sound volume stage and a first light amount stage described later in the pachinko gaming machine 1 is mounted. The first sound volume stage and the first light amount stage are stages for setting the sound volume of the speakers 8L and 8R and the light emission amounts of the game effect lamp 9 and the decoration LED, and include a plurality of stages. As will be described later in detail, the setting changeover switch 300 can be normally operated only by persons involved in the game store. In other words, the first sound volume stage and the first light amount stage are stages that are changed by an operation on the game store side. Further, as described later, the second volume level and the second light level are set based on an operation performed by the player on the stick controller 30 or the like. The second sound volume stage and the second light amount stage are stages for setting the sound volume of the speakers 8L and 8R and the amount of light emitted from the game effect lamp 9 and the decoration LED, and include a plurality of stages. The second sound volume stage and the second light amount stage are stages that are changed by an operation on the player side.

  The effect control board 12 (effect control CPU 120) sets the volume of the sound actually output from the speakers 8L and 8R based on the first volume level and the second volume level. The effect control board 12 (effect control CPU 120) sets the amount of light that actually turns on the game effect lamp 9 and the decorative LED based on the first light amount stage and the second light amount stage. For example, the effect control board 12 (effect control CPU 120) also specifies the set volume in the audio signal transmitted to the audio control board 13. As a result, the audio control board 13 executes a process of outputting audio from the speakers 8L and 8R at the volume specified by the audio signal. That is, the sound is output at the volume set by the effect control CPU 120 based on the first volume level and the second volume level. The effect control board 12 (effect control CPU 120) also specifies the set light amount by an illumination signal transmitted to the lamp control board 14. As a result, the lamp control board 14 executes a process of lighting the game effect lamp 9 and the decoration LED with the light amount specified by the illumination signal. That is, lighting is performed at the light amount determined by the effect control CPU 120 based on the first light amount stage and the second light amount stage.

  With the above-described configuration, the effect control CPU 120 controls the speakers 8L and 8R via the sound control board 13 to output the sound of the volume set above, or the game effect lamp via the lamp control board 14. 9 or a decorative LED, or the like, to turn on / off the light at the light amount set as described above, or to display an effect image in the display area of the image display device 5 via the display control unit 123, thereby producing various effects. Execute Further, at the time of executing an effect, the effect control CPU 120 performs an effect based on signals from the trigger sensor 35A, the push sensor 35B, and the tilt direction sensor unit 32 (that is, the operation on the stick controller 30 and the operation on the push button 31B). (Response to an operation, etc.).

  Next, the structure of the back of the pachinko gaming machine 1 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 3 is a rear view of the inside of the pachinko gaming machine 1 as viewed from the back of the pachinko gaming machine 1. As shown in FIG. 3, the main board 11 and the effect control board 12 are arranged at the center of the pachinko gaming machine 1. The payout control board 37 is disposed below the pachinko gaming machine 1. The power supply board 90 is disposed at the lower left. The ball payout device 97 is disposed on the right side of the pachinko gaming machine 1 corresponding to a prize ball supply path for paying out prize balls. The main board 11 is stored in the board storage case 150, and the effect control board 12 is stored in the board storage case 270. Each of these substrate storage cases 150 and 270 is made of a member such as an acrylic plate having a light transmitting property. The setting changeover switch 300 is arranged on the effect control board 12 so as to face the back of the pachinko gaming machine 1 as shown in FIG. When the pachinko gaming machine 1 is viewed from the back, the setting changeover switch 300 is disposed on the upper right portion of the effect control board 12 (see FIG. 4), and the game board is formed through a cutout 270a formed in the board storage case 270. It can be operated from outside the unit 250.

  An employee of a game shop (a game hall, a game hall, etc.) in which the pachinko gaming machine 1 is set can open and close, for example, a front door of the pachinko gaming machine 1 (normally, a player cannot open and close). When the front door is opened, the employee can rotate the member on which the effect control board 12 and the like are arranged around the rotation shaft provided on the pachinko gaming machine 1. Thus, the employee can operate the setting changeover switch 300 of the effect control board 12. On the other hand, the player cannot normally operate the setting changeover switch 300 because the front door cannot be opened. That is, the setting changeover switch is an operation unit for a game arcade. That is, in this embodiment, the opening of the front door is a condition under which the setting changeover switch 300 can be operated (a first permission condition for performing an operation for a game arcade).

  As shown in FIG. 5, the setting change switch 300 has a total of 16 channels from “0” to “F”, and is a switch that switches these channels by rotating the knob 301. I have. In this embodiment, a first sound volume stage and a first light amount stage are prepared for each of the channels “0” to “F”. That is, in this embodiment, 16 levels corresponding to “0” to “F” (here, “0” to “F” which are the same as the channels) are prepared as the first volume levels. In this embodiment, 16 levels corresponding to “0” to “F” (here, “0” to “F”, which are the same as the channels) are prepared as the first light level. That is, if the channel is “0”, the first volume level and the first light level of “0” are set, and if the channel is “1”, the first volume level and the first light level of “1” are set. If the channel is “F”, the first volume level and the first light level of “F” are set. In this embodiment, the setting changeover switch 300 is directly or indirectly connected to the effect control CPU 120 via a predetermined circuit, and the effect control CPU 120 can read the current channel of the setting changeover switch 300. (For example, a signal corresponding to the channel is input to the effect control CPU 120).

  In the pachinko gaming machine 1, a predetermined game using a game ball as a game medium is performed, and a predetermined game value can be given based on the game result. The gaming value given in the gaming machine is directly the payout of a game ball that becomes a prize ball or the provision of a score corresponding to this. The record information of such a game ball and the score corresponding to the number thereof may be, for example, information having a valuable value that can be exchanged for a special premium or a general premium according to the quantity. Alternatively, the recorded information of these game balls and points may not be exchangeable for special prizes or general prizes, but may have valuable value that can be used for a game again with a gaming machine.

  In addition, the game value that can be provided in the gaming machine is not limited to the payout of game balls that become prize balls and the provision of points, for example, control to a jackpot game state, or control to a special game state such as a probable change state. That the maximum number of rounds that can be executed in the big hit gaming state is the first round number (for example, “15”) that is larger than the second round number (for example, “2”); The first number (for example, “100”) in which the upper limit number of the display is larger than the second number (for example, “50”), and the first big hit probability in the probability change state is higher than the second probability (for example, 1/50). The first number is the probability (for example, 1/20), and the number of consecutive chan, which is the number of times repeatedly controlled to the big hit gaming state without being controlled to the normal state, is larger than the second consecutive chan number (for example, “5”). Ren Chang (E.g., "10"), such as part or all of it to be, it may include be a more favorable game situation for the player.

  As an example of a game using a game ball, a predetermined hitting ball is fired based on a predetermined operation (for example, a rotation operation) performed by a player on a hitting operation handle provided at the lower right of the front of the housing of the pachinko gaming machine 1. A game ball as a game medium is fired toward a game area by a firing motor or the like provided in the device. When the game ball flowing down the game area enters the first start winning opening (first start area) formed in the normal winning ball device 6A, the game ball is detected by the first start port switch 22A shown in FIG. The first starting condition is satisfied by the fact (the first starting port switch 22A is turned on) or the like. Thereafter, the special figure game using the first special figure by the first special symbol display device 4A is started based on the fact that the first start condition is satisfied due to, for example, the end of the last special figure game or the big hit game state. Is done.

  When the game ball enters the second start winning opening (second start region) formed in the ordinary variable winning ball device 6B, the game ball is detected by the second start port switch 22B shown in FIG. The second starting condition is satisfied by (for example, the second starting port switch 22B being turned on). Thereafter, the special figure game using the second special figure by the second special symbol display device 4B is started based on the second start condition being satisfied, for example, by ending the previous special figure game or the big hit game state. Is done. However, when the normally variable winning ball device 6B is in the normal opening state or the closed state as the second variable state, it is difficult or impossible for the game ball to enter the second starting winning opening.

  Based on the fact that the game ball that has passed through the passage gate 41 is detected by the gate switch 21 shown in FIG. 2 (the gate switch 21 has been turned on), the ordinary symbol display 20 performs variable display of the ordinary symbol. The general-purpose starting condition for performing is established. Thereafter, the ordinary symbol display device 20 starts the ordinary symbol game based on the fact that the ordinary symbol starting condition for starting the variable display of the ordinary symbol such as the end of the previous ordinary symbol game is satisfied. In this ordinary symbol game, when a predetermined time elapses after the variation of the ordinary symbol is started, the fixed ordinary symbol which is a variable display result of the ordinary symbol is stopped and displayed (derived display). At this time, if a specific ordinary symbol (a symbol per ordinary symbol) is stopped and displayed as the fixed ordinary symbol, the variable display result of the ordinary symbol becomes "a symbol per ordinary symbol". On the other hand, if the ordinary symbol other than the ordinary symbol is stopped and displayed as the fixed ordinary symbol, the variable display result of the ordinary symbol becomes “the ordinary symbol loss”. In response to the result of the variable display of the ordinary symbol being “per-universal”, the opening control and the enlarged opening control in which the movable wing of the electric tulip constituting the ordinary variable winning prize ball device 6B is at the tilt position are performed. After a predetermined period of time, the closing control and the normal opening control that return to the vertical position are performed. Whether or not the variable display result of the ordinary symbol is set to “predetermined display” as a predetermined specific display result depends on whether the variable display result of the ordinary symbol display device 20 starts. Is determined (predetermined) before derivation and display.

  When a special figure game using the first special figure by the first special symbol display device 4A is started, or when a special figure game using the second special figure by the second special symbol display apparatus 4B is started, special It is determined (predetermined) whether or not to make the variable display result of a symbol a “big hit” as a predetermined specific display result before deriving and displaying the variable display result. Then, a variation pattern is determined at a predetermined ratio based on the determination of the variable display result.

  After the special figure game is started based on the determination of the variable display result and the variation pattern, for example, when a predetermined variable display time corresponding to the variation pattern elapses, a fixed special symbol that is a variable display result is derived. Is displayed. “Left”, “middle”, and “right” decorations arranged on the screen of the image display device 5 corresponding to the variable display of special symbols by the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B. In the symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R, a variable display of a decorative symbol (effect symbol) different from the special symbol is performed. In a special figure game using the first special figure by the first special symbol display apparatus 4A or a special figure game using the second special figure by the second special symbol display apparatus 4B, a fixed special that results in a variable display of the special symbol. When the symbol is derived and displayed, a fixed decorative symbol that is a variable display result of the decorative symbol is derived and displayed on the image display device 5.

  When a predetermined big hit symbol is derived and displayed as a variable display result of the special symbol, the variable display result (special symbol display result) becomes "big hit" (specific display result), which is a specific game state advantageous to the player. It is controlled to the big hit game state. Whether or not to be controlled to the big hit game state corresponds to whether or not the variable display result is "big hit", and is determined (predetermined) before the variable display result is derived and displayed. As a variable display result of the special symbol, when the big hit symbol is not derived and displayed but the lost symbol is derived and displayed, the variable display result (special symbol display result) is “losing”.

  As an example, a special symbol indicating the numbers “3” and “7” is a big hit symbol, and a special symbol indicating the symbol “−” is a lost symbol. In addition, each symbol such as a big hit symbol or a losing symbol in the special figure game by the first special symbol display device 4A may be a different special symbol from each symbol in the special symbol game by the second special symbol display device 4B. Then, a special symbol common to both special symbol games may be a big hit symbol or a lost symbol.

  In the big hit gaming state, the special winning prize opening is in the open state, and the special variable winning prize ball device 7 is in the first state which is advantageous for the player. Then, during a period until a predetermined period (for example, 29 seconds) or a predetermined number (for example, 9) of game balls enters the special winning opening and a winning ball is generated, the special winning opening is continuously opened. A round game (also simply referred to as "round") is executed. During a period other than the round game execution period, the special winning opening is in a closed state, and it is difficult or impossible to generate a winning ball. When a game ball enters the special winning opening, a winning ball (game ball entering the special winning opening) is detected by the count switch 23, and a predetermined number (for example, 14) of game balls are paid out as a prize ball for each detection. It is. The round game in the big hit game state is repeatedly executed until reaching a predetermined upper limit number (for example, “15”).

  The case where the special map display result is “big hit” includes a case where the big hit type is either “non-probable” or “probable”. For example, as a special display variable display result, a jackpot type indicating a number of “3” is derived and displayed, and the jackpot type becomes “non-probable”, and a jackpot symbol indicating a number of “7” is derived and displayed. The type is “probable”. When the jackpot type becomes “probable change” or “non-probable change”, the special variable winning prize ball device 7 is set to a first state (a state of opening the special winning opening) for the player as a round game in the big hit gaming state. The normal opening round in which the upper limit time to be performed is a predetermined time (for example, a first period such as 29 seconds) is executed a predetermined number of times such as 15 rounds (15 times). Note that the jackpot game state based on the “big hit” when the jackpot type is “non-probable change” is referred to as “non-probable change big hit game state”. The big hit game state based on the "big hit" when the big hit type is "probable change" is referred to as "probable change big hit game state".

  After the big hitting game state is ended, the variable display result may be controlled to the probability change state in which the probability (big hit probability) that the variable display result becomes “big hit” is higher than the normal state. The probable change state is controlled so as to continue until a predetermined probable change end condition such as the start of the next big hit game state is satisfied. Further, after the big hitting game state is ended, the average variable display time may be controlled to the time reduction state in which the average variable display time is shorter than the normal state. The time-saving state is either a predetermined number of times (in this embodiment, 100 times) of variable display (special figure game) has been executed or the next big hit game state has been started. Control is continued so that the condition is satisfied first. Note that the remaining number of executions of the variable display (such as a special figure game) until the time saving end condition is satisfied may be referred to as the remaining number of time savings. The time saving state and the probable change state are also advantageous states for the player.

  In this embodiment, the game state after the non-probable variable jackpot game state ends is a time saving state but is not a probable change state. In this embodiment, the game state after the probable change big hit game state ends is a time saving state and a probable change state.

  Note that the normal state is a game state other than a state that is advantageous to the player, such as a specific game state such as a big hit game state, a time saving state, a probability change state, or the like. The probability that the game will be "hit per figure" and the probability that the variable display result in the special figure game will be "big hit" depends on the initial setting state of the pachinko gaming machine 1 (for example, a predetermined return after the power is turned on, such as when a system reset is performed) This is a state in which the same control is performed as when the processing is not executed).

  In the time reduction state, the normal variable winning prize ball device 6B is set to the first variable state (open state) in an advantageous change mode in which the game ball easily enters the second starting winning opening compared to the non-time saving state in which the time reduction state is not the normal state. Alternatively, the state is changed between an enlarged open state) and a second variable state (closed state or normally open state). For example, the control to make the normal symbol display device 20 change the normal symbol fluctuation time (normal symbol fluctuation time) in the normal symbol game from that in the normal state, or the variable display result of the normal symbol in each normal symbol game is " The tilt control time for performing the control for increasing the probability of "hit per figure" as compared with the normal state, and the tilt control of the movable wing piece in the normal variable winning prize ball device 6B based on the fact that the variable display result is "win per figure". Is controlled to make the normal variable winning prize ball device 6B in the advantageous change mode between the first variable state and the second variable state by control to make the variable length longer than that in the normal state and to increase the number of tilts than in the normal state. Just do it. Note that any one of these controls may be performed, or a plurality of controls may be performed in combination. As described above, the control for changing the normally variable winning prize ball device 6B between the first variable state and the second variable state in an advantageous change mode is referred to as high opening control (also referred to as "time saving control" or "high base control"). Is done. By controlling to such a time saving state, the time required until the next variable display result becomes a "big hit" is reduced, and a special game state which is more advantageous to the player than the normal state is obtained.

  Note that the time reduction state is also referred to as a "high base state" or "high base", and the game state which is not the time reduction state is also referred to as a "low base state", "low base", "non-time reduction state", "non-time reduction", or the like. Will be The probable state in which the probabilistic control is performed is also referred to as “high-precision state” or “high-precision state”, and the game state that is not the probable-variation state is “low-probability state”, “low-probability”, “non-probable state”, “non-probable state”. It is also called. The game state in the probable change state and the time saving state is also referred to as a “high-probability base state”, a “high-probability base”, or the like. The game state when the time saving state is not set to the certainty change state is also referred to as a “low certainty high base state”, a “low certainty high base”, or the like. The game state when the game is in the probable change state without being reduced to the time saving state is also referred to as a “high-accuracy low-base state”, a “high-accuracy low-base state”, or the like. The state that does not become any of the time saving state and the probable change state, that is, the normal state is also referred to as a “low-probability low-base state”, a “low-probability low-base state”, or the like.

  In the "left", "middle", and "right" decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R provided on the image display device 5, a special figure game using the first special figure in the first special symbol display device 4A is provided. In response to the start of any special figure game among the special figure games using the second special figure in the second special symbol display device 4B, the variable display of the decorative symbol is started. Then, the period from the start of the variable display of the decorative symbol to the end of the variable display by the stop display of the fixed decorative symbol in each of the left, middle, and right decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R. In the (variable display period), the variable display mode of the decorative symbol may be a predetermined reach mode (reach is established).

  Here, the reach mode is a decorative symbol that has not been stopped and displayed yet when the decorative symbol stopped and displayed on the screen of the image display device 5 forms a part of the big hit combination (“reach variation symbol”). ) Is a display mode in which the fluctuation is continued, or a display mode in which all or a part of the decorative symbols are synchronously fluctuating while forming all or a part of the big hit combination. Specifically, some of the “left,” “middle,” and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R (eg, the “left” and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5R, etc.) When a decorative symbol (for example, a decorative symbol indicating an alphanumeric character of “7”) constituting the determined jackpot combination is stopped and displayed, the remaining decorative symbol display areas (for example, “medium” decoration) that have not been stopped and displayed yet. In the symbol display area 5C, etc.), the decorative pattern is fluctuating, or the decorative symbol is a big hit in all or a part of the “left”, “middle”, “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, 5R. This is a display mode in which all or some of the combinations are changed synchronously.

  During the variable display of the decorative pattern, a character image (effect image imitating a person or the like) different from the decorative pattern is displayed on the screen of the image display device 5, a background image is displayed, and the decorative pattern is displayed. An effect of reproducing and displaying different moving images is executed. These effects, together with the variable display itself of the decorative pattern itself (this is also an effect), are referred to as effects during variable display. In other words, the effect during variable display is an effect based on an image displayed on the screen of the image display device 5 along with the variable display of the special symbol, and is a concept including the variable display of the decorative symbol itself. The effect during variable display is performed, for example, in response to the progress of the game, and may be any effect that allows the player to recognize the progress of the game. Making the variable display mode a reach mode is also one of the effects during variable display. The effect during variable display is effected by an image displayed on the screen of the image display device 5 (including the variable display itself of the decorative pattern) along with the variable display of the special symbol, and also by the sound output operation by the speakers 8L and 8R. Further, an effect by a lighting operation (flashing operation) of a light emitting body such as the game effect lamp 9 may be included.

  In the variable display effect, a reach effect may be executed. The reach effect is executed in response to the reach mode. In the reach effect, the variation speed of the decorative pattern is reduced, a character image (effect image imitating a person or the like) different from the decorative pattern is displayed on the screen of the image display device 5, or the display mode of the background image is changed. This is an effect of performing an effect operation different from before reaching the reach mode by causing the moving image to be reproduced, displaying a moving image different from the decorative symbol, or changing the variation mode of the decorative symbol. In the reach effect, not only the display operation in the image display device 5, but also the sound output operation by the speakers 8L and 8R, the lighting operation (flashing operation) in the light emitting body such as the game effect lamp 9, and the like are in the reach mode. An operation mode different from the previous operation mode may be included. In this embodiment, a normal reach, a super reach A, a super reach B, and a super reach C, each of which has a different effect form, are prepared as the reach effects (see FIG. 15 and described later in detail).

  When the special figure display result, which is the variable display result of the special symbol in the special figure game, is “big hit”, a fixed decoration pattern that is a predetermined big hit combination is derived and displayed on the screen of the image display device 5. As an example, when the jackpot type is “non-probable” or “probable”, the same is displayed on a predetermined active line in the “left”, “middle”, “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R. It is only required that the fixed decoration symbols to be a big hit combination are derived and displayed by stopping and displaying the decoration symbols.

  When the jackpot type is “non-probable change”, a fixed decorative symbol that is a non-probable change big hit combination may be derived. The determined decorative symbol which is a non-probable variable jackpot combination is, for example, a symbol number “1” variably displayed in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R. One of the decorative symbols having an even number “2”, “4”, “6”, or “8” among the decorative symbols of “−8” is “left”, “middle”, “right”. May be stopped and displayed on predetermined effective lines in the decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R, and may be any type of a fixed decorative symbol that is a big hit combination. Such decorative symbols having the even number “2”, “4”, “6”, and “8” constituting the non-probable variable jackpot combination are referred to as non-probable variable symbols (also referred to as “normal symbols”). .

  When the jackpot type is “probable change”, a determined decorative symbol that is a non-probable variable jackpot combination may be derived, or a confirmed decorative symbol that is a probable variable jackpot combination may be derived. For example, the fixed decoration symbol which is a probability change jackpot combination is a symbol number which is variably displayed in the decoration symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R of "left", "middle", and "right" on the image display device 5 from "1" to "5". Of the decorative symbols of “8”, one of the decorative symbols whose symbol numbers are odd numbers “1”, “3”, “5”, and “7” is “left”, “middle”, and “right”. In the decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R, they may be stopped and displayed on predetermined effective lines, and may be a type of a fixed decorative symbol that is a big hit combination. A decorative symbol whose odd number is "1", "3", "5", or "7", which constitutes the probability variable jackpot combination, is called a probability variable symbol.

  When the special figure display result is "losing", the decorative pattern constituting a predetermined non-reach combination is stopped and displayed without the variable display mode of the decorative pattern becoming the reach mode, so that the non-specific display result is obtained. May be derived and displayed. In addition, when the special figure display result is “losing”, after the variable display mode of the decorative symbol becomes the reach mode, the decorative symbol forming a predetermined reach combination (also referred to as “reach-losing combination”) is stopped and displayed. As a result, a fixed decorative design which is a non-specific display result may be derived and displayed.

  Next, main operations (actions) of the pachinko gaming machine 1 in the present embodiment will be described. In the following, the operation will be described with reference to flowcharts and the like, but in each operation (each process), a process that does not appear in the flowchart may be appropriately performed.

  In the main board 11, when the power supply from a predetermined power supply board is started, the game control microcomputer 100 is started, and the CPU 103 executes a predetermined process as a game control main process. When the game control main process is started, the CPU 103 sets necessary interrupt settings after setting interrupt prohibition. In this initial setting, for example, the RAM 101 is cleared. The clearing of the RAM 102 is performed, for example, by operating initialization operation means such as a clear switch (not shown) provided on the pachinko gaming machine 1 when the power is turned on. This operation is performed, for example, outside the business hours of the game store. Further, a register of a CTC (counter / timer circuit) built in the game control microcomputer 100 is set. As a result, an interrupt request signal is sent from the CTC to the CPU 103 every predetermined time (for example, every 2 milliseconds), and the CPU 103 can periodically execute the timer interrupt process. When the initial setting is completed, an interrupt is permitted, and a loop process is started. In the game control main process, a process for returning the internal state of the pachinko gaming machine 1 to the state at the time of the previous power supply stop (at the time of power failure due to power failure or the like) is executed, and then the loop process is started. (For example, when a predetermined data is stored in the RAM 101 when the power is turned on (ON) without pressing the clear switch (for example, when power is cut off)).

  Upon receiving the interrupt request signal from the CTC and receiving the interrupt request, the CPU 103 that has executed such a game control main process sets an interrupt disabled state and executes a predetermined game control timer interrupt process.

  In the game control timer interrupt process, the CPU 103 performs, for example, a switch process, performs a main-side error process, performs an information output process, and thereafter performs a game random number update process, a special symbol process process, a normal symbol process process, A process for controlling the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1 such as a command control process is included. At the end of the game control timer interrupt process, an interrupt is permitted. Thus, the game control timer interrupt process is executed every time a timer interrupt occurs, that is, every predetermined time (for example, 2 milliseconds) that is the supply interval of the interrupt request signal.

  The switch processing is performed by determining whether or not a detection signal is input from various switches such as the gate switch 21, the first start-up switch 22A, the second start-up switch 22B, and the count switch 23 via the switch circuit 110. This is a process of determining, for each switch, whether or not the game ball is on (that is, whether or not a game ball has entered or passed). In the switch processing, for example, transmission setting of a prize ball number command indicating the number of prize balls corresponding to the switches determined to be in the ON state (the first start port switch 22A, the second start port switch 22B, and the count switch 23) is also performed. . The prize ball number command is transmitted to the payout control board 37 in the command control process. When the payout control board 37 receives this command, the payout control board 37 controls the ball payout device 97 to provide the prize balls by the number of prize balls indicated by this command. Execute the process of paying out.

  The main-side error process is a process of performing an abnormality diagnosis of the pachinko gaming machine 1 and generating a warning if necessary according to the diagnosis result.

  The information output process is a process of outputting data such as jackpot information, start information, and probability variation information supplied to a hall management computer installed outside the pachinko gaming machine 1, for example.

  The game random number update process is a process for updating at least a part of the plurality of game random numbers used on the main board 11 side by software. As an example, the game random numbers used on the main board 11 include a random number value MR1 for determining a special figure display result, a random number value MR2 for determining a jackpot type, and a random value MR3 for determining a variation pattern. It only has to be included (see FIG. 8). The random number value MR1 for determining the special figure display result is a random number value used for determining whether or not to control the variable display result such as a special symbol in the special figure game as a “big hit” to the big hit game state, and “1”. To 65535. The random number value MR2 for determining the jackpot type is a random value used to determine the jackpot type to be either “probable” or “non-probable” when the variable display result is “big hit”. "To" 100 ". The random number value MR3 for determining a variation pattern is a random value used to determine a variation pattern in the variable display of a special symbol or a decorative symbol to one of a plurality of variation patterns prepared in advance, and is “1” to “1”. It can take any value of “251”.

  In the special symbol process process, the value of the special symbol process flag provided in the RAM 102 is updated according to the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1, and the variable display result of the special symbol or the like in the special symbol game is set as "big hit". Determination of whether or not to control to the game state, determination of the fluctuation pattern, control of the display operation in the special symbol display device 4 based on the determination result (execution of the special figure game), special variable prize ball device 7 of the big hit game state Various processes are selected and executed in order to perform the opening / closing operation setting (execution of round game or short-term opening control) of the special winning opening in a predetermined procedure. The details of the special symbol process will be described later, but the special symbol process is executed each time a timer interrupt occurs, thereby determining a variable display result and a variation pattern, executing a special figure game based on the determination, a big hit game state. Are realized.

  In the normal symbol process process, for example, when a game ball passes through the passing gate 41 (for example, when it is determined in the switch process that the gate switch 21 is in the ON state), the reserved number reaches the upper limit number. If not, the storage of the general-purpose game is performed (for example, a random value is extracted and stored in the RAM 102), or the variable display result of the general-purpose game is determined using the storage of the randomization (the random number stored in the RAM 102). Or determine a variation pattern (variation time or the like) of the ordinary symbol game, and control the display operation (for example, turning on or off the segment LED) on the ordinary symbol display 20 according to the variation pattern to execute variable display of the ordinary symbol. To derive and display the variable display result of the general-purpose game, or to open the variable-winning-ball device 6B when the variable display result matches the general-purpose result. Or carried out the process of the state. By executing the normal symbol process process each time a timer interrupt occurs, the execution of the general-purpose game, the first variable state of the normal variable prize ball device 6B in the predetermined period at the time of the general-purpose figure, and the like are realized.

  The command control process is a process of transmitting a control command from the main board 11 to a sub-side control board such as the effect control board 12 and the payout control board 37. As an example, in a special symbol process process, a normal symbol process process, a switch process, and the like, transmission setting of a control command (such as an effect control command) is performed (for example, a storage address value of a control command to be transmitted is stored in the RAM 102). In the command control process, a process of actually transmitting the set control command to the effect control board 12 and the payout control board 37 is performed. In the transmitting process, a control command is transmitted using an effect control INT signal or the like.

  After executing the command control process, the game control timer interrupt process is terminated after setting the interrupt enable state.

  Here, main control commands transmitted from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12 by the command control processing will be described with reference to FIG. Note that “(H)” indicates a hexadecimal number.

  The command 8001 (H) is an effect control command (first variation start designation command) for designating the start of the variable display (variation) of the first special symbol. The command 8002 (H) is an effect control command (second variation start designation command) for designating the start of variable display (variation) of the second special symbol. The first change start designation command and the second change start designation command may be collectively referred to as a change start 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 a variation pattern designation command described later. The first variation start designation command or the second variation start designation command is set to be transmitted together with the variation pattern designation command and the like in step S111 described later, which is executed when the variation pattern is set.

  The command 81XX (H) is an effect control command (variation pattern designation command) for designating a variation pattern of a decorative symbol variably displayed on the image display device 5 in response to the variable display of a special symbol. In this embodiment, a variation pattern designation command corresponding to each variation pattern (see FIG. 15 and described in detail later) is set. For example, a unique number (variation pattern number) is assigned to each variation pattern, and the number is set to “XX” in the command (for example, “01” for variation pattern PA1-1). The variation pattern designation command is also a command for designating the start of the variation of the decorative symbol, and is set to be transmitted in a later-described step S111 executed when the variation pattern is set.

  The command 8CXX (H) is an effect control command (display result specifying command) for specifying whether or not to make a big hit and a big hit type (that is, a variable display result). In this embodiment, a display result designation command corresponding to each display result is set. For example, a unique number is assigned to each display result, and the number is set to “XX” in the command (for example, “00” for “losing” and “00” for the jackpot type “ "01" etc.). The display result designation command is set to be transmitted together with the variation pattern designation command in step S111 described later which is executed when the variation pattern is set.

  The command 8F00 (H) is an effect control command (symbol confirmation designation command) for ending variable display (fluctuation) of a decorative symbol and deriving and displaying a display result (stop symbol). The symbol confirmation designation command is set to be transmitted when the special figure game ends in step S112 described later.

  The command 95XX (H) is an effect control command (game state designation command) for designating a game state. In this embodiment, a game state designation command corresponding to each game state is set. For example, if the game state is the normal state (low-probability low base), “XX” is set to “00”. For example, if the gaming state is the high-accuracy low-base state, “XX” is set to “01”. For example, if the gaming state is the high-accuracy high-basis state, “XX” is set to “02”. The game state designation command is set to be transmitted at the time of execution of step S113 or step S117 described below where the game state can be changed.

  The command A000 (H) is an effect control command (hit start designation command) for designating the start of the big hit game state (start of the fanfare). Note that the fanfare is an effect that is executed at the start of the big hit game state and that notifies that the big hit game state has been entered. This command is set to be transmitted when the big hit gaming state is started in step S113 described later.

  The command A300 (H) is an effect control command (hit end designation command) for designating the end of the big hit game state (start of ending). The ending is an effect that is executed at the end of the big hit gaming state and that notifies the end of the big hit gaming state. This command is set to be transmitted when the last round game ends in step S116 described later.

  The command B100 (H) is an effect control command (first starting port winning designation command) for designating that a first starting winning has occurred due to the game medium entering the first starting winning port. The command B200 (H) is an effect control command (second starting opening winning designation command) for designating that a second starting winning has occurred due to the game medium entering the second starting winning opening. The first starting opening winning designation command and the second starting opening winning designation command may be collectively referred to as a starting opening winning designation command. These commands are set for transmission in a start winning determination process (step S101) described later.

  The command C1XX (H) is an effect control command for specifying the first special figure reserved storage number (first special figure reserved storage number designation command). “XX” indicates the first special figure reserved storage number. The command C2XX (H) is an effect control command (second special figure reserved storage number designation command) for designating the second special figure reserved storage number. “XX” indicates the second special figure reserved storage number. The first special figure reserved storage number designation command and the second special figure reserved storage number designation command may be collectively referred to as a special figure reserved storage number designation command. The special figure reserved storage number designation command is set to be transmitted in later-described step S101 or step S111 where the first special figure reserved storage number or the second special figure reserved storage number can change.

  The command C500 (H) is an effect control command (designating a customer waiting demonstration) for designating the display of the demonstration screen. The customer waiting demonstration designation command is set to be transmitted in step S110 when there is no hold storage.

  Next, the special symbol processing will be described. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the special symbol process process. In this special symbol process process, the CPU 103 first executes a start winning determination process (step S101). FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the start winning determination process executed in step S101.

  When the start winning determination process is started, the CPU 103 first determines whether or not the first starting port switch 22A provided corresponding to the first starting winning port formed by the normal winning ball device 6A is turned on ( Step S201). If the first starting port switch 22A is on because the first starting port switch 22A is determined to be on in the switch processing (step S201; Yes), the special figure game using the first special figure is performed. Then, it is determined whether or not the first special figure reserved storage number, which is the reserved storage number, is equal to a predetermined upper limit value (for example, “4”) (step S202). At this time, the CPU 103 stores a first special figure reserved storage number counter (a counter for counting the first special figure reserved storage number) provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 102 (such as a game control counter setting unit). The first special figure reserved storage number may be specified by reading the special figure reserved storage number count value. When the first special figure reserved storage number is not the upper limit value in step S202 (step S202; No), the starting port which is the stored value of the starting port buffer provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 102 (such as the game control buffer setting unit). The buffer value is set to "1" (step S203).

  When the first start port switch 22A is turned off in step S201 (step S201; No), or when the first special figure reserved storage number has reached the upper limit in step S202 (step S202; Yes), it is normal. It is determined whether or not the second starting port switch 22B provided corresponding to the second starting winning port formed by the variable winning ball device 6B is on (step S204). If the second starting port switch 22B is turned on (step S204; Yes) because the second starting port switch 22B is determined to be on in the switch processing, etc., the special figure game using the second special figure is performed. Then, it is determined whether or not the second special figure reserved storage number, which is the reserved storage number, is equal to a predetermined upper limit value (for example, “4”) (step S205). At this time, the CPU 103 stores a second special figure reserved storage number counter (a counter for counting the second special figure reserved storage number) provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 102 (such as a game control counter setting unit). The second special figure reserved storage number may be specified by reading the special figure reserved storage number count value. When the second special figure reserved storage number is not the upper limit value in step S205 (step S205; No), the starting port buffer value is set to “2” (step S206). If the second starting port switch 22B is not turned on (step S204; No) or the second special figure reserved storage number is the upper limit value (step S205; Yes), the start winning determination processing ends.

  After executing one of the processes of steps S203 and S206, the count value of the special figure pending storage corresponding to the starting port buffer value is updated so as to be incremented by 1 (step S207). For example, when the starting port buffer value is "1", the first special figure reserved storage number count value is added by one, while when the starting port buffer value is "2", the second special figure reserved storage number count value is increased. Add one. In this manner, the first special figure reserved storage number count value increases by one when the game ball enters the first start winning opening and the first starting condition corresponding to the special figure game using the first special figure is satisfied. (Increment). In addition, the second special figure reserved storage number count value increases by one when the game ball enters the second start winning opening and the second starting condition corresponding to the special figure game using the second special figure is satisfied. (Increment). At this time, the count value of the total reserved storage number, which is the storage value of the total reserved storage number counter provided in the predetermined area (the game control counter setting unit or the like) of the RAM 102, is updated so as to be incremented by 1 (step S208).

  After executing the process of step S208, the CPU 103 extracts a predetermined game random number corresponding to the occurrence of the start winning (step S209). As an example, in the processing of step S209, random number for updating the special figure display result is selected from among the numerical data updated by the random number circuit 104 or a random counter provided in a predetermined area (such as a game control counter setting unit) of the RAM 102. Numerical data (see FIG. 9) indicating a numerical value MR1, a random number value MR2 for determining a jackpot type, and a random number value MR3 for determining a variation pattern are extracted. Numerical data indicating each of the random numbers extracted in this way is stored as the pending data by being set at the head of an empty entry in the special figure pending storage unit corresponding to the starting port buffer value (step S210). For example, when the starting port buffer value is “1”, the hold data is set in the first special figure hold storage unit as shown in FIG. On the other hand, when the starting port buffer value is “2”, the hold data is set in the second special figure hold storage unit as shown in FIG. At this time, when the reservation data is set in the first special figure reservation storage unit, the CPU 103 can control the first reservation display 25A to specify the added first special figure reservation storage number by one. May be displayed on the first hold indicator 25A (for example, the number of lit LEDs is increased by one). When the hold data is set in the second special figure hold storage unit, the CPU 103 controls the second hold indicator 25B to display a display capable of specifying the added second special figure hold storage number by one. The second hold indicator 25B may be configured to perform the operation (for example, increase the number of lit LEDs by one).

  In the first special figure holding storage unit shown in FIG. 10A, although the game ball enters the first start winning opening formed by the normal winning ball device 6A, the first start winning has occurred, but has not yet started. The reservation data of the special figure game (the special figure game using the first special figure in the first special symbol display device 4A) is stored. As an example, the first special map holding storage unit associates the winning order (the order in which game balls are detected) with the hold number in the first start winning port and establishes the first starting condition based on the entry of the game ball. The CPU 103 stores, as pending data, the random number value MR1 for determining the special figure display result, the random number value MR2 for determining the jackpot type, and the random number value MR3 for determining the variation pattern, which are extracted from the random number circuit 104 and the like, as reserved data. Is stored until a predetermined upper limit value (for example, “4”) is reached. The hold data thus stored in the first special figure holding storage unit indicates that the execution (variable display) of the special figure game using the first special figure is suspended, and the variable display result ( On-hold storage information that enables determination as to whether or not it is determined to control to the jackpot gaming state based on the special figure display result, and whether or not the variable display mode of the decorative symbol is a specific mode (for example, reach effect). Becomes

  In the second special figure holding storage unit shown in FIG. 10 (B), although the game ball enters the second starting winning opening formed by the normally variable winning ball device 6B, the second starting winning has occurred, but the second starting winning has not yet started. The reservation data of the special figure game that does not exist (the special figure game using the second special figure in the second special symbol display device 4B) is stored. As an example, the second special figure holding storage unit associates the winning order (game ball detection order) with the hold number in the second starting winning opening and establishes the second starting condition based on the entry of the game ball. The random number value MR1 for determining the special figure display result, the random number value MR2 for determining the jackpot type, and the numerical data indicating the random number value MR3 for determining the fluctuation pattern, which are extracted from the random number circuit 104 by the CPU 103, are held data. The information is stored until a predetermined upper limit value (for example, “4”) is reached. The hold data thus stored in the second special figure storage unit indicates that execution (variable display) of the special figure game using the second special figure is suspended, and the variable display result ( On-hold storage information that enables determination as to whether or not it is determined to control to the jackpot gaming state based on the special figure display result, and whether or not the variable display mode of the decorative symbol is a specific mode (for example, reach effect). Becomes

  Subsequent to the process of step S210, the CPU 103 performs transmission setting of the start winning command (step S211). The start winning command is composed of a starting mouth winning designation command and a special figure hold storage number designation command. When the starting port buffer value is "1", the transmission setting of the first starting port winning specifying command and the first special figure reserved storage number specifying command is performed as the starting winning command. When the starting port buffer value is “2”, the transmission setting of the second starting port winning specifying command and the second special figure reserved storage number specifying command is performed as the starting winning command. The command set for transmission is transmitted in the command control process.

  The first special figure reserved storage number designation command or the second special figure reserved storage number designation command to be set for transmission is a command for designating the current first special figure reserved storage number or the second special figure reserved storage number (the number of stored A command including the corresponding EXT data), and the number of special figure reservation storage to be specified may be specified by the count value of the first special figure reservation storage number counter or the second special figure reservation storage number counter.

  After step S211, it is determined whether the starting port buffer value is "1" or "2" (step S212). At this time, if the starting port buffer value is “2” (Step S212; “2”), the starting port buffer is cleared and its stored value is initialized to “0” (Step S213), and then the starting winning is achieved. The determination processing ends. On the other hand, when the starting port buffer value is "1" (step S212; "1"), the starting port buffer is cleared and its stored value is initialized to "0" (step S214). It proceeds to the process of step S204. Thus, even when both the first start-up opening switch 22A and the second start-up opening switch 22B simultaneously detect a valid winning start of a game ball, the processing based on the detection of both valid starting winnings can be surely completed.

  Returning to FIG. 7, after executing the start winning determination processing in step S101, the CPU 103 determines in steps S110 to S110 in accordance with the value of the special figure process flag provided in a predetermined area (such as a game control flag setting unit) of the RAM 102. One of the processes of S117 is selected and executed.

  The special symbol normal processing of step S110 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is “0”. In this special symbol normal processing, the first special symbol display device 4A and the first special symbol display device 4A are used based on the presence or absence of reserved data stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 102, such as the first special figure reserved storage unit and the second special figure reserved storage unit. It is determined whether or not to start the special figure game by the second special symbol display device 4B. In the special symbol normal processing, based on the numerical data indicating the random number value MR1 for determining the special symbol display result, it is determined whether the variable display result of the special symbol or the decorative symbol is "big hit" or not. It is decided (predetermined) before it is derived and displayed. At this time, if the variable display result is determined to be "big hit", the big hit type is determined to one of a plurality of types such as "non-probable change" and "probable change". The data indicating the jackpot type determination result is stored in a jackpot type buffer provided in a predetermined area (for example, a game control buffer setting unit) of the RAM 102, so that the jackpot type is stored. Further, in the special symbol normal processing, in response to the variable display result of the special symbol in the special symbol game, the fixed special symbol (big hit symbol, Loss symbol) is set. In the special symbol normal process, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to “1” when the variable display result of the special symbol or the decorative symbol is determined in advance.

  FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process executed in step S110 as the special symbol normal process. In the special symbol normal processing, the CPU 103 first determines whether or not the second special figure hold storage number is “0” (step S231). The second special figure reserved storage number is the reserved storage number of the special figure game using the second special figure by the second special symbol display device 4B. The CPU 103 may read the second special figure reserved storage count value and determine whether the read value is “0”.

  If the second special figure reserved storage number is other than “0” in step S231 (step S231; No), for example, the first area of the second special figure reserved storage unit (for example, the storage area corresponding to the reserved number “1”) Numerical data indicating a predetermined random number value is read as pending data stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 102 (step S232). Thereby, the random number for the game extracted in response to the occurrence of the start winning (the second starting winning) in the second starting winning opening in the process of step S209 is read. The numerical data read out at this time may be stored in, for example, a random number buffer for fluctuation and temporarily stored.

  Subsequent to the processing of step S232, the second special figure reserved storage count is updated by subtracting one from the second special figure reserved storage count value, for example, by updating the second special figure reserved storage number count value. The contents stored in the hold storage unit are shifted (step S233). For example, the hold data stored in the storage area lower than the hold number “1” (the storage area corresponding to the hold numbers “2” to “4”) in the second special figure hold storage unit is higher by one entry at a time. (Storage areas corresponding to the hold numbers “1” to “3”). In the process of step S233, the total number of reserved storages may be updated so as to be decremented by one. Then, the variable special figure designating buffer value, which is the storage value of the variable special figure designating buffer provided in the predetermined area (for example, the game control buffer setting unit) of the RAM 102, is updated to “2” (step S234).

  When the second special figure reserved storage number is “0” in step S231 (step S231; Yes), it is determined whether the first special figure reserved storage number is “0” (step S235). The first special figure reservation storage number is the reservation storage number of the special figure game using the first special figure by the first special symbol display device 4A. The CPU 103 may read the first special figure reserved storage number count value and determine whether the read value is “0”. As described above, the process of step S235 is executed when it is determined in step S231 that the second special figure reserved storage number is “0”, and the first special figure reserved storage number is “0”. It is determined whether or not. As a result, the execution of the special figure game using the second special figure starts in preference to the special figure game using the first special figure.

  In addition, regardless of whether the game ball is the first start winning opening or the second starting winning opening, when the special figure game is executed in the order in which the game balls enter the starting winning opening, the first starting winning opening is provided. And the starting port data indicating which of the game starting balls has entered the second starting winning port together with the holding data or separately from the holding data, in association with the holding number in a predetermined area of the RAM 102, What is necessary is just to make it possible to specify the order in which the start conditions are satisfied for the special figure game corresponding to each hold data.

  If the first special figure reserved storage number is other than “0” in step S235 (step S235; No), for example, the first area of the first special figure reserved storage unit (for example, the storage area corresponding to the reserved number “1”) Numerical data indicating a predetermined random number value is read as pending data stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 102 (step S236). Thereby, the random number for the game extracted in response to the occurrence of the start winning (first starting winning) in the first starting winning opening in the process of step S209 is read. The numerical data read out at this time may be stored in, for example, a random number buffer for fluctuation and temporarily stored.

  Subsequent to the process of step S236, the first special figure reserved storage count is updated by subtracting 1 from the first special figure reserved storage count, for example, by updating the first special figure reserved storage count. The contents stored in the hold storage unit are shifted (step S237). For example, the hold data stored in the storage area lower than the hold number “1” (the storage area corresponding to the hold numbers “2” to “4”) in the first special figure hold storage unit is higher by one entry at a time. (Storage areas corresponding to the hold numbers “1” to “3”). In addition, in the process of step S237, the total reserved storage number may be updated so as to be decremented by one. Then, the variable special figure designation buffer value is updated to "1" (step S238).

  After executing one of the processes of steps S234 and S238, the special figure display result, which is the variable display result of the special symbol, is determined to be one of "big hit" and "losing" (step S239). As an example, in the process of step S239, a special figure display result determination table prepared by being stored in a predetermined area of the ROM 101 in advance is selected and set as a use table for determining a special figure display result. For example, the CPU 103 sets the special figure display result determination table shown in FIG. 12 as a use table. In the special figure display result determination table, for example, as shown in FIG. 12, the numerical value (decision value) to be compared with the random number value MR1 for determining the special figure display result is such that the special figure display result is "big hit" and "losing". It is only necessary that the game result is assigned according to whether or not the gaming state is the probable change state.

  The CPU 103 reads, from the random number buffer for variation, numerical value data indicating the random number value MR1 for determining a special figure display result included in the random number for game temporarily stored in the random number buffer for variation in step S232 or S236, and the game state is in a stable state. By referring to the special figure display result determination table based on whether or not there is and the numerical data indicating the random number value MR1, it is determined whether or not the game state is in the surely changing state to the determined value that matches the random number value MR1. May be determined as the special map display result, depending on the result. The CPU 103 may determine that the state is the probable change state when the probable change flag (the flag that is turned on in the probable change state) is on. For example, when the random number value MR1 is “9000”, the CPU 103 determines that the special figure display result is “big hit” when the probability change flag is on (when the probability change state is on), and the probability change flag is off. If the state is the state (when the state is in the non-probable state), it is determined that the special figure display result is “losing”.

  As shown in FIG. 12, the special figure display result is determined to be "big hit" at a higher determination rate in the probability change state than in the non-probability change state. Therefore, for example, by the jackpot ending process of step S117 shown in FIG. 7 (to be described in detail later), based on the fact that the probability change flag is set to the ON state corresponding to the case where the jackpot type is “probability”, and the like. When the current state is the probable change state, the special figure display result is more likely to be a "big hit" than in the non-probable state, and the big hit game state is more likely to be obtained. That is, it is advantageous for the player.

  Thereafter, the CPU 103 determines whether or not the special figure display result determined by the process of step S239 is "big hit" (step S240). When the special map display result is determined to be "big hit" (step S240; Yes), a big hit flag provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 102 is set to an on state (step S241). The big hit type is determined to be one of a plurality of types (step S242). As an example, in the process of step S242, a big hit type determination table prepared by being stored in a predetermined area of the ROM 101 in advance or the like is selected and set as a use table for determining a big hit type. The CPU 103 sets, for example, the big hit type determination table shown in FIG. 13 as a use table. In the jackpot type determination table, for example, as shown in FIG. 13, the numerical value (decision value) to be compared with the random number value MR2 for determining the jackpot type is one of “non-probable” and “probable” for the big hit type. What is necessary is just to be assigned to the determination result.

  The CPU 103 reads, from the random number buffer for variation, numerical data indicating the random number value MR2 for determining the jackpot type included in the random number for game temporarily stored in the random number buffer for variation in step S232 or S236, and reads the large hit from the random number buffer for variation. By referring to the jackpot type determination table set in the use table based on numerical data indicating the random number value MR2 for type determination, one of the jackpot types assigned to the determined value matching the random number value MR2 is selected. do it.

  After executing the process of step S242, the big hit type is stored (step S243). The CPU 103 stores a jackpot type buffer setting value (for example, “0” in the case of “non-probable change”) indicating a jackpot type determination result in a jackpot type buffer provided in a predetermined area (for example, a game control buffer setting unit) of the RAM 102. , The value of “1” in the case of “probable change”), the big hit type may be stored.

  If the special figure display result is not "big hit" (step S240; No), after step S243, a fixed special symbol which is a variable display result of the special symbol in the special figure game is determined (step S246). As an example, when it is determined in step S240 that the special figure display result is not “big hit”, a special symbol predetermined as a lost symbol is determined as a fixed special symbol. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S240 that the special map display result is “big hit”, a plurality of types of big hits are determined in accordance with the result of determining the big hit type in step S242 (according to the big hit type buffer set value). Any of the special symbols predetermined as the symbols may be determined as the fixed special symbol.

  After executing the processing of step S246, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to "1" (step S247), and then the special special pattern normal processing ends. When the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “1” in step S247, when the next timer interrupt occurs, the variation pattern setting processing in step S111 shown in FIG. 4 is executed.

  If the reserved storage number of the special figure game using the first special figure is “0” in step S235 (step S235; Yes), a predetermined demonstration display setting is performed (step S248), and then the special symbol is set. The normal processing ends. In this demonstration display setting, for example, an effect control command (customer waiting demonstration designation command) for designating a demonstration display (demonstration screen display) by displaying a predetermined effect image on the image display device 5 is sent from the main board 11 to effect control. It is determined whether the data has been transmitted to the substrate 12. At this time, if the transmission has been completed, the demo display setting ends. On the other hand, if the transmission has not been performed, the customer wait demonstration designation command is set for transmission, and then the demonstration display setting ends. When the customer waiting demonstration designation command is transmitted, the effect control board 12 displays a demonstration screen.

  The variation pattern setting process of step S111 in FIG. 7 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is “1”. This variation pattern setting process includes a process of determining one of a plurality of types of variation patterns based on a result of a prior determination as to whether or not the variable display result is a "big hit". Since the variation pattern specifies the contents of the variable display of the decorative symbol (variable display mode), the contents of the variable display of the decorative symbol are determined by this determination. The variable display time of the special symbol or the decorative symbol is set in advance in accordance with the variation pattern. Therefore, by determining the variation pattern in the variation pattern setting process, the variable display time (special figure variation time) from the start of the variable display of the special symbol to the derivation of the fixed special symbol which is the variable display result is determined. Is done. Further, the variation pattern setting process may include a process of performing setting for starting the variation of the special symbol in the special symbol display device 4. When the variation pattern setting process is executed, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “2”.

  FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process executed in step S111 as a variation pattern setting process. In the variation pattern setting process, the CPU 103 first determines whether the big hit flag is on (step S261). If the big hit flag is ON (step S261; Yes), a variation pattern corresponding to the big hit at which the special figure display result becomes "big hit" is determined (step S262).

  If the big hit flag is off in step S261 (step S261; No), a variation pattern corresponding to a loss when the special figure display result is "loss" is determined (step S263).

  FIG. 15 shows a fluctuation pattern in this embodiment. In this embodiment, among the cases in which the variable display result (special figure display result) is “losing”, the variable display mode of the decorative pattern is “non-reach” that does not become the reach mode, and “reach mode” is the “reach mode”. A plurality of variation patterns are prepared in advance corresponding to each of the cases of “reach” and corresponding to the case where the variable display result (the special figure display result) is “big hit”.

  In this embodiment, PA1-1 and PA1-2 are prepared as variation patterns of "losing" in the case of "non-reach". As a variation pattern of “losing” in the case of “reach”, PA2-1 (normal reach is executed), PB2-1 (super reach A is executed), and PB2-2 (super reach B is executed). ) And PB2-3 (super reach C is executed). When the jackpot type is “probable change” or “non-probable change”, the variation pattern of “big hit” is PA4-1 (normal reach is executed), PB4-1 (super reach A is executed), or PB4-1 (super reach A is executed). PB4-2 (super reach B is executed) and PB4-3 (super reach C is executed) are prepared.

  In the process of step S262 shown in FIG. 14, the change pattern at the time of the big hit is determined using, for example, the big hit change pattern determination table shown in FIG. As an example, in the big hit variation pattern determination table, a numerical value (determined value) to be compared with the random value MR3 for determining the variation pattern may be assigned to the determination result of the variation pattern. The CPU 103 reads the random number value MR3 for determining the fluctuation pattern from the random number buffer for fluctuation, and refers to the big hit fluctuation pattern determination table based on the read numerical value data indicating the random number value MR3 for determining the fluctuation pattern, thereby obtaining the random number value. The variation pattern assigned to the determined value corresponding to MR3 may be determined (selected) as the variation pattern used this time. For example, when the random value MR3 is “140”, the CPU 103 selects the variation pattern PB4-2.

  In the process of step S263 illustrated in FIG. 14, the variation pattern at the time of the loss is determined using, for example, the loss variation pattern determination table illustrated in FIG. As an example, in the loss variation pattern determination table, depending on whether the gaming state is the time reduction state or the non-time reduction state, a time reduction flag (a flag that is turned on in the time reduction state) provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 102 is used. It is sufficient that a numerical value (determined value) to be compared with the random number value MR3 for determining the variation pattern is assigned to the determination result of the variation pattern. The CPU 103 refers to the loss variation pattern determination table based on the numerical data indicating the variation random number value MR3 for determining the variation pattern read from the variation random number buffer and the state of the time saving flag, and thereby corresponds to the random number value MR3. It is only necessary to determine (select) a fluctuation pattern assigned to the determined value according to whether or not the person is in the time saving state as the fluctuation pattern to be used this time. For example, when the random number value MR3 is “220”, the CPU 103 selects the variation pattern PA2-1 when the time reduction flag is on (when it is in the time reduction state), and when the time reduction flag is off (in the non-time reduction state). ), The variation pattern PB2-1 is selected.

  In the loss variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 17, a variation pattern having a shorter special figure variation time is more likely to be selected in the time reduction state, and in the time reduction state, it is more average than in the non-time reduction state. By shortening the variable display time, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of an invalid start winning, and to reduce the stop of the launch of the game ball by the player (so-called "stop hit"). Further, the execution frequency of the variable display can be increased.

  Referring to FIGS. 16 and 17, when Super Reach C is executed among the reach effects, the variable display result is “big hit” at the highest rate. Then, in the order of the super reach B, the super reach A, and the normal reach, the ratio of the variable display result to "big hit" (so-called big hit expectation) decreases.

  After executing any one of steps S262 and S263 shown in FIG. 14, a special figure fluctuation time (variation time) which is a variable display time of a special symbol is set (step S266). The special figure fluctuation time, which is the variable display time of the special symbol, is the time required from the start of the fluctuation of the special symbol in the special figure game to the derivation and display of the fixed special symbol that is the variable display result (the special figure display result). It is. As shown in FIG. 15, the special figure fluctuation time is determined in advance corresponding to a plurality of fluctuation patterns prepared in advance. The CPU 103 can set the timing at which the variable display result of the special symbol or the decorative symbol is derived by setting the special symbol variation time corresponding to the variation pattern selected in the processing of steps S262 and S263. The special figure fluctuation time is set, for example, by setting a timer value corresponding to the special figure fluctuation time in a game control process timer provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 102. The determination of the variation pattern is also the determination of the special figure variation time.

  Subsequent to the process of step S266, the special figure game using the first special figure on the first special symbol display device 4A and the special figure game using the second special figure on the second special symbol display device 4B are started. The control for starting the fluctuation of the special symbol is performed so as to start any special figure game in which the condition is satisfied (step S267). As an example, if the variable special figure designation buffer value is “1”, control is performed to transmit a drive signal for updating the display of the first special figure on the first special symbol display device 4A. On the other hand, if the variable special figure designation buffer value is “2”, control is performed to transmit a drive signal for updating the display of the second special figure on the second special symbol display device 4B. Thus, the special map game is started. Note that when starting variable display using the first special figure, the CPU 103 controls the first reservation display 25A to display a display capable of specifying the number of first special figure reservation storages that has been subtracted by one. You may make it hold | maintain display 25A (for example, reduce the lighting number of LED by 1). When starting the variable display using the second special figure, the CPU 103 controls the second reserve display 25B to display a display capable of specifying the number of the second special figure reservation storages that is reduced by one. You may make it hold | maintain display 25B (for example, reduce the lighting number of LED by 1).

  After executing the processing of step S267, the transmission setting of the command at the start of the change of the special symbol (the command at the start of the change) is set in order to notify the effect control board 12 of the special figure display result and the determination result of the change pattern. Is performed (step S268). For example, when the variation special figure designation buffer value is “1”, the CPU 103 sends the first variation start designation command, the variation pattern designation command ( A command including EXT data indicating the variation pattern determined in step S262 or S263, a display result designation command (a command including EXT data indicating the variable display result determined in step S246), a first special figure reserved storage number designation command ( The first special figure reserved storage count value reduced by one in step S237, that is, a command including EXT data indicating the first special figure reserved storage number when one reserved storage is consumed by the start of execution of the special figure game) Perform transmission settings for sequential transmission. On the other hand, when the variation special figure designation buffer value is “2”, the CPU 103 sends the second variation start designation command, the variation pattern designation command ( A command including EXT data indicating the fluctuation pattern determined in step S262 or S263), a display result designation command (a command including EXT data indicating the variable display result determined in step S246), a second special figure reserved storage number designation command ( The second special figure reserved storage count value reduced by 1 in step S233, that is, a command including EXT data indicating the second special figure reserved storage number when one reserved storage is consumed by the start of execution of the special figure game) Perform transmission settings for sequential transmission.

  After executing the process of step S268, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “2” (step S269), and the variation pattern setting process ends. When the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “2” in step S269, when the next timer interrupt occurs, the special symbol variation processing in step S112 shown in FIG. 7 is executed.

  The special symbol change process of step S112 in FIG. 7 is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is “2”. The special symbol change process includes a process of subtracting one from the timer value of the game control process timer. When the timer value of the game control process timer (timer value after subtracting 1) is not 0, the special figure variation time has not elapsed, and thus the control for executing the variable display of the special figure game (for example, The display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol is updated (including the update for maintaining the display of the special symbol for a predetermined time as appropriate. The same applies hereinafter). In the device 4A or the second special symbol display device 4B, a process for changing the special symbol is performed, and the special symbol changing process ends. On the other hand, when the timer value of the game control process timer becomes 0 and the elapsed time from the start of the change of the special symbol reaches the special symbol change time, the first special symbol display device 4A or the second special symbol display The fluctuation of the special symbol is stopped by the device 4B, and the fixed special symbol (fixed special symbol set in step S110) as a variable display result of the special symbol is stopped and displayed (derived display) (the fixed special symbol is a predetermined time). It is preferable to control the display so that the display is continued.) Further, when the stop display is performed, the transmission setting of the symbol determination designation command is also performed, and the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “3”. By repeatedly executing step S112 every time a timer interrupt occurs, variable display of a special symbol, derivation display of a fixed special symbol, and the like are realized.

  The special symbol stop processing in step S113 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is “3”. In the special symbol stop processing, the CPU 103 determines whether the big hit flag is on. If the big hit flag is in the ON state, the time reduction flag and the probable change flag are reset (turned off), and the remaining number of variable display (the number of remaining time reductions) provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 102 and executed during the time reduction state is provided. ) Is performed to set the count value of the time reduction counter that counts the count value of the time reduction counter to “0”. Then, a timer value corresponding to the fanfare waiting time (a waiting time from the start to the end of the fanfare in the big hit game state, which is a predetermined time) is set as an initial value in the game control process timer. Then, “15” is set as an initial value in a round number counter provided in the RAM 102 for counting round games. After that, a setting is made to transmit a hit start specification command and a game state specification command (here, a command specifying the normal state) for specifying the current game state, and the special figure process flag is updated to “4” to perform special processing. The symbol stop processing ends. Since the gaming state is changed after the big hit gaming state, the gaming state designation command need not be transmitted here.

  If the big hit flag is off, it is determined whether the time reduction flag is on. If it is on, the count value of the time reduction counter is decremented by "1". Thereafter, it is determined whether the count value after subtracting “1” is “0”, and if the count value is “0”, the time-saving termination condition for ending the time-saving state is satisfied (that is, Since the variable display has been executed a predetermined number of times that can be performed in the state, the time reduction flag is turned off to end the time reduction state. Thereafter, transmission setting for transmitting a game state designation command is performed based on the current game state. When the time saving flag is off, when the count value after subtracting "1" is not "0", or after the game state designation command transmission is set, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to "0". Then, the special symbol stop processing ends.

  The big hit opening pre-processing of step S114 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is “4”. In the big hit opening pre-processing, for example, the timer value of the game control process timer is decremented by one. If the timer value after the subtraction is not “0”, it means that the fanfare waiting time has not yet elapsed, and the big hit opening pre-processing ends. When the timer value after the subtraction is “0”, it means that the fanfare waiting time has elapsed and it is time to start the round game. In this case, the process of starting the round game in the big hit game state to open the big winning opening (for example, transmitting a solenoid drive signal to the solenoid 82 for the big winning opening door), the big winning opening For example, a process of setting a timer value corresponding to the upper limit (here, 29 seconds) of the period during which the game control process is opened to the game control process timer is executed. When processing such as opening the special winning opening is executed, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “5”. By repeatedly performing step S114 every time a timer interrupt occurs, standby until the round game start timing (standby until the end of the fanfare), opening of the special winning opening, and the like are realized.

  The big hit opening processing in step S115 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is “5”. The processing during opening of the big hit includes processing for subtracting one from the timer value of the game control process timer, the timer value after subtracting one, and the number of game balls (switches) detected by the count switch 23 in one round game. The special winning opening is changed from the open state to the closed state (or based on a counter (provided in the RAM 102) that counts 1 each time the count switch 23 is determined to be in the ON state in the processing). It may be determined whether or not it is time to return to (partly open state).

  When it is determined that the timer value after subtracting 1 has become 0 or that the number of detected game balls (count value of the counter) has reached a predetermined number (for example, 9), the special winning opening is closed. At the timing of performing the process, the process of returning the winning port to the closed state (for example, the process of stopping the transmission of the solenoid drive signal to the solenoid 82 for the winning port door and turning off the solenoid 82), A process of setting a timer value corresponding to a closing period of a winning opening (a period of a round game, which is a preset period) to a game control process timer, a process of reducing a count value of a round number counter by 1, and the like are executed. Is done. If the timer value after decrementing by 1 does not become 0 and the number of detected game balls does not reach the predetermined number, processing to maintain the open state of the special winning opening (for example, the solenoid drive signal (Processing to continue supply), and the like, and the processing during opening of the big hit is completed. When the special winning opening is returned to the closed state, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “6”. By repeating step S115 every time a timer interrupt occurs, the open state of the special winning opening is maintained until the timing of returning the special winning opening from the open state to the closed state.

  The post-big hit release processing in step S116 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is "6". In the post-big hit opening processing, there are processing for determining whether or not the count value of the round number counter has reached “0”, and processing for reducing the timer value of the game control process timer by 1 when the count value has not reached “0”. Done.

  If it is determined that the count value of the round number counter is “0”, it means that the round game has reached the upper limit number, and the ending waiting time (start of ending in the big hit game state) is set in the game control process timer. Is set to a game control process timer corresponding to the waiting time from the start to the end, which is a predetermined time.) Further, a setting for transmitting the hit end designation command is performed, and a process of updating the special figure process flag to “7” is also performed.

  When the processing of reducing the timer value of the game control process timer by 1 is performed, it is determined whether the timer value after the reduction is 1 is 0. If the timer value is not 0, it is not the start timing of the round game. Is maintained, and the post-jackpot opening process ends. If it is 0, it is time to start the round game, so that the processing for opening the special winning opening to the open state and the timer value corresponding to the upper limit of the period for opening the special winning opening (here, 29 seconds) Is set in the game control process timer. When processing such as opening the special winning opening is executed, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “5”.

  Each time a timer interrupt occurs, the special winning opening is opened in step S114, and then S115 and S116 are repeatedly executed, whereby each round game is realized.

  The big hit end processing in step S117 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is “7”. In the big hit end process, a process of decrementing the timer value of the game control process timer by 1 is performed. If the timer value reduced by 1 is not 0, the ending has not been completed, and the big hit ending process is ended as it is. When the timer value reduced by 1 becomes 0, the ending is finished, so the time saving flag, the time saving number counter, the probability change flag, etc., according to the big hit type (big hit type buffer set value) stored in the big hit type buffer. Set the state of.

  For example, if the jackpot type is “probable change”, the time reduction flag and the probability change flag are turned on, and “100” is set as an initial count value in a time reduction counter provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 102. If the jackpot type is "non-probable change", only the time reduction flag is turned on, and "100" is set in the time reduction counter as an initial count value. In the big hit end processing, after such a setting, transmission setting for transmitting a game state designation command for designating a game state according to the setting is performed, and various data such as a game control process timer and a big hit type buffer setting value (next data) are set. ) Is appropriately reset to update the value of the special figure process flag to “0”.

  Next, main operations of the effect control board 12 will be described.

  In the effect control board 12, when the power supply voltage is supplied from the power supply board or the like, the effect control CPU 120 is activated to execute a predetermined effect control main process. FIG. 18 is a flowchart of an example of the effect control main process. When the effect control main process is started, the effect control CPU 120 first executes a predetermined initialization process (step S71) to clear the RAM 122 and set various initial values, and to execute the CTC mounted on the effect control board 12. (Counter / timer circuit) register setting, etc. Thereafter, it is determined whether or not a timer interrupt flag provided in a predetermined area (for example, the effect control flag setting unit) of the RAM 122 is turned on (step S72). The timer interrupt flag is set to an on state every time a predetermined time (for example, 2 milliseconds) elapses based on, for example, a register setting of the CTC. At this time, if the timer interrupt flag is off, the process stands by (step S72; No).

  Further, on the side of the effect control board 12, an interrupt for receiving an effect control command from the main board 11 is generated separately from the timer interrupt generated every time a predetermined time elapses. This interrupt is, for example, an interrupt generated when the effect control INT signal from the main board 11 is turned on. When an interrupt is generated due to the effect control INT signal being turned on, the effect control CPU 120 automatically sets the interrupt to be disabled. It is desirable to issue a prohibition command (DI command). The effect control CPU 120 executes, for example, a predetermined command reception interrupt process in response to an interrupt caused by the effect control INT signal being turned on. In this command reception interrupt processing, a control signal serving as an effect control command is sent from a predetermined input port that receives a control signal transmitted from the main board 11 via the relay board 15 among input ports included in the I / O 125. Take in. The effect control command captured at this time is stored in an effect control command receiving buffer provided in the RAM 122, for example. After that, the effect control CPU 120 sets the interruption permission, and then ends the command reception interruption processing.

  If the timer interrupt flag is on (step S72; Yes), the timer interrupt flag is cleared and turned off (step S73), and a command analysis process (step S74) is executed. In the command analysis process, for example, after reading out various control commands transmitted from the game control microcomputer 100 of the main board 11 and stored in the effect control command reception buffer (provided in the RAM 122), the readout is performed. The setting and control corresponding to the set control command are performed.

  After executing the command analysis processing, an effect control process is executed (step S75). In the effect control process, various effects such as a display operation of an effect image in a display area of the image display device 5, an audio output operation from the speakers 8L and 8R, a lighting operation of a light emitting body such as the game effect lamp 9 and a decoration LED, and the like. With respect to the control content of the rendering operation using the device, determination, determination, setting, and the like are performed in accordance with the rendering control command and the like transmitted from the main board 11. Following the effect control process process, an effect random number update process (step S76) is executed, and numerical data indicating the effect random number counted by the random counter of the RAM 122 as various random numbers used for the effect control is converted by software. Update. After step S76, a volume setting process (step S77) for setting the volume and the like is performed, and the process proceeds to step S72.

  FIG. 19 is a diagram showing a table of processing performed in the command analysis processing for each control command. Each reception flag and each storage area in the table are provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 122. In addition, setting the reception flag means turning it on. Note that the reception flag, the command stored in the storage area, and the like may be appropriately cleared at an appropriate timing (for example, when the reception of the command is confirmed once by the reception flag, and the confirmation is performed again later. Clear as appropriate when not in processing).

  When receiving the game state designation command, the effect control CPU 120 switches the high-precision flag and the high base flag between the ON state and the OFF state based on the content of the received game state designation command. The high-precision flag is provided, for example, in a predetermined area of the RAM 122 (for example, an effect control flag setting unit), and is turned on in response to the probable change state. The on / off state is switched according to the switching between the state and the off state. The high base flag is provided, for example, in a predetermined area of the RAM 122 (for example, an effect control flag setting unit), and is turned on in response to the time saving state. The on / off state is switched according to the switching between the state and the off state. For example, when the game state designation command designates the high-accuracy high-base state (for example, when the probable-variation flag and the time-saving flag specify that the time-saving flag is on), the effect control CPU 120 sets the high-accuracy flag and the high Both of the base flags are turned on (if they are already on, the on state is maintained. The same applies to the on and off states for both flags). When the game state designation command designates the high-accuracy low-base state (for example, when the probable-variation flag is on and the time-saving flag is off), the high-accuracy flag is turned on, and the high-accuracy low-base state is set. Turn off the flag. If the gaming state designation command is to designate a low-probability low-base state (normal state) (for example, to specify that the probable-variation flag and the time-saving flag are off), both the high-probability flag and the high-base flag are set. Turn off.

  Also, when the first special figure reserved storage number designation command or the second special figure reserved storage number designation command is received, a predetermined display control command is transmitted to the VDP or the like of the display control unit 123 to display the current display. You may make it change the number of holding | maintenance display symbols in a number according to the storage number which each command designates. It should be noted that the number of reserved display symbols may be reduced at the time of step S171 described later.

  FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing an example of the effect control process. In the effect control process process shown in FIG. 19, effect control CPU 120 responds to the value (at first, “0”) of the effect process flag provided in a predetermined area of RAM 122 (eg, effect control flag setting unit). Then, one of the following processes of steps S170 to S175 is selected and executed.

  The variable display start waiting process in step S170 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “0”. The variable display start waiting process is performed based on whether a first variation start designation command, a second variation start designation command, or the like from the main board 11 has been received (for example, whether each reception flag is on). The processing includes determining whether to start the variable display of the decorative symbol on the image display device 5 based on the information. When the first variation start designation command or the second variation start designation command is received and it is determined that the variable display of the decorative symbol on the image display device 5 is started, the value of the effect process flag is updated to “1”. . In other cases, the variable display start waiting process ends without updating the value of the effect process flag.

  In this variable display start waiting process, when it is not determined that the variable display of the decorative symbol is to be started, and when the customer waiting demonstration designation command is transmitted (the customer waiting demonstration designation command reception flag is turned on). Effect), the effect control CPU 120 performs control for displaying a demonstration screen (at this time, for example, the flag is cleared and turned off). The demonstration screen display is executed using various data such as effect control patterns stored in the ROM 121. For example, the effect control CPU 120 controls the display control unit 123 to display a demonstration image on the image display device 5, and outputs sound from the speakers 8 </ b> L and 8 </ b> R by outputting a command (audio signal) to the audio control board 13. In addition, an effect operation control such as turning on / off / flashing the game effect lamp 9 and the decoration LED by outputting a command (illumination signal) to the lamp control board 14 is performed. Execution of the demonstration screen display is realized by repeatedly performing the effect operation control for each timer interrupt.

  The variable display start setting process in step S171 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “1”. FIG. 21 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the variable display start setting process. In the variable display start setting process, the effect control CPU 120 firstly displays the special figure display result based on, for example, a display result designation command transmitted from the main board 11 (a command stored in the display result designation command storage area). Is determined to be "losing" (step S521). When the special figure display result is “losing” (Step S521; Yes), for example, the fluctuation pattern specified by the fluctuation pattern specification command transmitted from the main board 11 (the command stored in the fluctuation pattern specification command storage area) is used. Then, it is determined whether or not a non-reach variation pattern (PA1-1, PA1-2) corresponding to the case of "non-reach" in which the variable display mode of the decorative symbol is not the reach mode (step S522).

  When it is determined in step S522 that the pattern is the non-reach variation pattern (step S522; Yes), the combination of the fixed decorative symbols that are the final stop symbols constituting the non-reach combination is determined (step S523). As an example, in the process of step S523, first, numerical data indicating a random number value for decorative symbol determination of a non-reach combination, which is updated by a random counter for effect provided in a predetermined area of the random number circuit 124 or the RAM 122, is extracted. The determined decorative symbol (decorative symbol of the non-reach combination) is determined by referring to a non-reach combination decorative symbol determination table stored and prepared in advance in the ROM 121.

  If it is determined in step S522 that the pattern is not the non-reach variation pattern (when the variation patterns are PA2-1 and PB2-1 to PB2-3) (step S522; No), the final stop forming the reach combination is performed. The combination of the determined decorative symbols to be the symbols is determined (step S524). As an example, in the processing of step S524, first, numerical data indicating a random number value for decorative symbol determination of the reach combination updated by the random number circuit 124 or the effect random counter or the like is extracted and stored in the ROM 121 in advance. The determined decorative symbol (the decorative symbol of the reach combination) is determined by referring to the decorative symbol determination table of the reach combination.

  When it is determined in step S521 that the special figure display result is not "losing" (step S521; No), a combination of the final decorative symbols constituting the big hit combination is determined (step S525). As an example, in the process of step S525, first, numerical data indicating a random number value for determining a jackpot determined symbol, which is updated by the random number circuit 124 or the effect random counter, is extracted. Subsequently, for example, according to the jackpot type specified by the display result designation command transmitted from the main board 11 (the command stored in the display result designation command storage area), the jackpot determination previously stored and prepared in the ROM 121 is determined. By referring to the symbol determination table or the like, the symbol numbers that are stopped and displayed in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R in the display area of the image display device 5 are the same. Determine the decoration pattern.

  After steps S523, S524, and S525, effect control CPU 120 sets an effect control pattern (stored in ROM 121 in advance) corresponding to the variation pattern designated by the variation pattern designation command as a use pattern (step S530). ). A plurality of effect control patterns are prepared corresponding to the variation patterns. Here, an effect control pattern corresponding to the variation pattern designated by the variation pattern designation command is selected and set.

  After step S530, the effect control CPU 120 sets the initial value of the effect control process timer (corresponding to the variation pattern) provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 122 in correspondence with the variation pattern specified by the variation pattern designation command, for example. An initial value according to the special figure fluctuation time is set (step S531).

  Then, a setting (start setting of the effect operation control) for starting the fluctuation of the decorative design or the like in the image display device 5 is performed (step S533). At this time, for example, the display control unit 123 is controlled based on the display control data included in the effect control pattern determined (set) as the use pattern in step S530, and the “left” provided in the display area of the image display device 5 is displayed. , "Medium" and "right" decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C and 5R may be started to change the decorative symbols. Thereafter, the value of the effect process flag is updated to “2”, which is a value corresponding to the effect process during variable display (step S534), and the variable display start setting process ends.

  The variable display effect processing in step S172 is processing executed when the value of the effect process flag is “2”. FIG. 22 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the variable display effect processing. In the variable display effect processing, the effect control CPU 120 first determines whether or not the variable display time (special figure change time) corresponding to the fluctuation pattern has elapsed based on, for example, the timer value of the effect control process timer. (Step S551). As an example, in the process of step S551, the timer value of the effect control process timer is reduced by 1, and it is determined whether or not the data associated with the process timer determination value that is the same as the reduced timer value is the end code. By doing so, it is determined whether the special figure fluctuation time has elapsed.

  If it is not the end code, that is, if the special figure fluctuation time has not elapsed (step S551; No), the effect control CPU 120 determines whether or not the present is the reach effect execution period for executing the reach effect. (Step S558). The period may be set in advance in the effect control pattern that is the use pattern. It is the reach effect execution period, for example, the data (data included in the effect control pattern) corresponding to the process timer determination value of the same value as the timer value of the effect control process timer indicates that the reach effect execute period. Is determined (step S558; Yes), an effect operation control for executing a reach effect is performed (step S559). For example, the effect control CPU 120 performs a reach effect associated with a process timer determination value that is the same as the timer value of the effect control process timer, out of the data included in the effect control pattern selected as the usage pattern. Based on the effect control execution data (display control data, audio control data, lamp control data, drive control data, etc.) to be executed, the display control unit 123 is controlled to display the effect image on the image display device 5, Output of a command (voice signal) to the voice control board 13 to output voice from the speakers 8L and 8R, and output of a command (illumination signal) to the lamp control board 14 to turn on / off the gaming effect lamp 9 and the decoration LED. An effect operation control such as turning off / flashing is performed. The execution of the reach effect is realized by repeatedly executing step S559 for each timer interrupt.

  After step S559, when it is determined that it is not the reach effect execution period (step S558; No), other effect operation control is performed (step S560). For example, the effect control CPU 120 performs the effect control execution associated with a process timer determination value that is the same as the timer value of the effect control process timer in the data included in the effect control pattern selected as the usage pattern. Based on the data (display control data, voice control data, lamp control data, etc.), the display control unit 123 is controlled to display the effect image on the image display device 5, and a command (voice signal) to the voice control board 13 is provided. To output sound from the speakers 8L and 8R by the output of, and to turn on / off / blink the game effect lamp 9 and the decoration LED by outputting a command (illumination signal) to the lamp control board 14. . By repeatedly executing step S560 every time the timer is interrupted, execution of another effect (for example, a variable display operation of a decorative design, etc.) is realized. After step S560, the variable display effect processing ends.

  If the data corresponding to the timer value reduced by 1 in the step S551 is the end code, and the special figure change time has elapsed from the start of the variable display of the decorative symbol (also a special figure game) (step S551; Yes) ), It is determined whether or not a symbol confirmation designation command transmitted from the main board 11 has been received (whether or not the symbol confirmation designation command reception flag is on) (step S561). At this time, if the symbol confirmation designation command reception flag is off and the symbol confirmation designation command has not been received (step S561; No), the variable display effect processing is terminated and stands by. If the predetermined time has elapsed without receiving the symbol confirmation designation command after the variable display time has elapsed, the predetermined error processing is performed in response to the failure to normally receive the symbol confirmation designation command. It may be executed.

  If the symbol confirmation designation command is received in step S561 (step S561; Yes), a variable display of the decorative symbol, such as transmitting a predetermined display control command to the VDP or the like of the display control unit 123, for example. In step S562, control is performed to derive and display a final stop symbol (fixed decorative symbol) (determined decorative symbol of the combination determined in step S171) which is a variable display result. At this time, a timer value corresponding to the hit start designation command reception waiting time is set in the effect control process timer or the like (step S563). Then, the value of the effect process flag is updated to “3”, which is a value corresponding to the waiting process per special figure (step S564), and the effect process during variable display ends.

  The waiting process per special figure in step S173 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “3”. In the special figure hit waiting process, the effect control CPU 120 determines, for example, whether a hit start designation command has been received. If it is determined that the hit start designation command has been received, an effect control pattern for executing an effect corresponding to the big hit game state is selected as a use pattern, and the effect control pattern selected as the use pattern is further executed. The timer initial value according to the time is set in the effect control process timer. After that, the value of the effect process flag is updated to “4”.

  If it is determined that the hit start designation command has not been received, the timer value of the effect control process timer is decremented by 1. If the timer value obtained by subtracting 1 is not 0, the special figure hit waiting process ends. On the other hand, when the timer value obtained by subtracting 1 is 0 (when the hit start designation command reception waiting time has elapsed), it is determined that the special figure display result in the special figure game is “losing”, and the effect process is performed. The value of the flag is updated to the initial value “0” (at this time, each reception flag, data stored in each storage area, etc. (those not to be carried over to the next variable display) are appropriately reset) .

  The hitting process in step S174 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “4”. In the hitting process, the effect control CPU 120 reduces the timer value of the effect control process timer by one, and sets the same value as the timer value after subtracting one of the data included in the effect control pattern selected as the use pattern. Based on the effect control execution data (display control data, voice control data, lamp control data, etc.) associated with the process timer determination value, the display control unit 123 is controlled to display the effect image on the image display device 5. Displaying, outputting voices from the speakers 8L and 8R by outputting a command (voice signal) to the voice control board 13, and outputting a command (illumination signal) to the lamp control board 14 to play the game effect lamp 9 or decoration An effect operation control such as turning on / off / blinking the LED is performed. By repeatedly executing step S174 for each timer interrupt, an effect (for example, an effect including a fanfare and excluding the ending) corresponding to the jackpot gaming state is realized. In the hitting process, it is further determined whether or not a hit end designation command has been received. If the hit end designation command has not been received, the value of the effect control process flag is updated because all round games have not been completed. And the middle processing ends. When the hit end designation command is received, all the round games have been completed, so that the execution of the ending effect is started, so that the value of the effect control process flag is a value corresponding to step S175. Update to 5 ". At the time of updating, the effect control pattern for executing the ending is selected as a use pattern, and a timer initial value corresponding to the execution time of the effect control pattern selected as the use pattern is set in the effect control process timer.

  The ending process in step S175 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “5”. In this ending process, the effect control CPU 120 reduces the timer value of the effect control process timer by 1 and sets the timer value of the data included in the effect control pattern selected as the use pattern to the same value as the timer value obtained by subtracting 1 from the data. Based on the effect control execution data (display control data, voice control data, lamp control data, etc.) associated with the process timer determination value, the display control unit 123 is controlled to display the effect image on the image display device 5. And output of a command (voice signal) to the voice control board 13 to output voice from the speakers 8L and 8R, and output of a command (illumination signal) to the lamp control board 14 to play the game effect lamp 9 or the decoration LED. Effect operation control, such as turning on / off / blinking. The execution of the ending effect is realized by repeatedly executing step S175 for each timer interrupt. If the timer value after decrementing by 1 is “0” or the data associated with the process timer determination value that is the same value as the timer value after decrementing by 1 is the end code, the production process The value of the flag is updated to the initial value "0" (at this time, each reception flag, data stored in each storage area, etc. (ones that are not desired to be carried over to the next variable display) are appropriately reset) .

  Next, the volume setting process will be described. FIG. 23 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the volume setting process. The volume setting process includes setting of the volume (the volume of the sound actually output from the speakers 8L and 8R, hereinafter simply referred to as "volume") and the amount of light (the game effect lamp 9 and the decoration LED are actually turned on). This is a process for setting the amount of light to be performed, hereinafter simply referred to as “light amount”), and for displaying other menus. FIG. 24 is a diagram showing the relationship between the state of the setting switch (channel) and the volume, light amount, and the like set in the volume and other setting process. FIG. 25 is a diagram illustrating the setting timing of the volume and the light amount. FIG. 26 is a diagram showing a setting screen displayed when the second volume level or the second light level used for setting the volume or the light level is changed (that is, when the volume or the light level is changed by an operation by the player). It is.

  In the sound volume setting process, a process of displaying a menu screen while the demo screen is being displayed is performed. The menu screen includes a plurality of selection items including “volume / light amount adjustment”. The player can select a desired selection item using the stick controller 30 or the like. For example, on the menu screen, one of the plurality of selection items is highlighted (blinking display, display for changing the color of the selection item, etc.). The highlighted selection item is to be selected. The player switches the selection item to be highlighted using the stick controller 30 or the like, and selects the selection item to be highlighted by pressing the push button 31B. Thus, the desired selection item has been selected. When a selection item is selected, a screen corresponding to the selection item switches from the menu screen and is newly displayed.

  The selection item of "volume / light amount adjustment" is selected when the player adjusts the volume or light amount, and the setting screen of FIG. 26 is displayed by the selection. As shown in FIG. 26, on the setting screen, a plurality of volume levels (“2” to “14” surrounded by a circle) and a plurality of light level (“50%”, “75%”, “75%” surrounded by a square) 100% ”) is displayed in the area 5HH and the area 5HL. The light intensity level displayed on the setting screen differs depending on the channel of the setting switch 300 (details will be described later). Each volume level ("2" to "14") is a possible level of a second volume level used for setting the volume. Among the respective volume levels, the volume level highlighted ("10" in FIG. 26) is the current second volume level. The volume level to be highlighted, that is, the second volume level, is changed by an operation using the stick controller 30 or the like. Each light level (“50%”, “75%”, “100%”, etc.) on the setting screen is a stage that can take a second light level used for setting the light amount. Among the light intensity stages, the light intensity stage highlighted ("75%" in FIG. 26) is the current second light intensity stage. The highlighted light amount stage, that is, the second light amount stage is changed by an operation using the stick controller 30 or the like. When the second volume level or the second light level is changed, the volume or the light level is set based on the changed phase and the current first volume level or first light level. That is, the volume and the light amount are changed by changing the volume level and the light amount stage highlighted on the setting screen in FIG. 26 by the operation. As described above, in this embodiment, the display of the demo screen and the display of the setting screen allow the player to perform an operation for setting the volume and the light amount (the second volume level and the second light level) (the player). (The second permission condition for performing the operation).

  When the channel of the selection switch 300 is “A” to “F”, the setting of the volume and the light amount by the player is restricted. That is, the setting of the second volume level and the second light level is restricted. At this time, the volume and the light amount are set based only on the first volume level and the first light level.

  The possible range of the volume and the light amount is determined in advance. Specifically, the sound volume has 21 steps of “2” to “22” (the larger the number, the larger the sound volume), and the light amount is “30%”, “50%”, “65%”, “75”. % "And" 100% "(see FIG. 24). The volume at the time of production and the like is not always constant. The set volume is, for example, the maximum volume that is allowed to be output at the time of a performance or the like. The amount of light during production is not always constant. The light quantity is, for example, the maximum light quantity that is allowed in an effect or the like. In addition, the light amount is indicated by a ratio (%) with the maximum light amount being 100%.

  Here, the relationship between the actual volume and light amount and the first volume level and the like will be described with reference to FIG.

  The row of the setting changeover switch 300 indicates the channel (the first volume level and the second volume level) of the setting changeover switch 300 (“0” to “F”).

  The row of the initial display (volume) indicates the highlighted volume level (second volume level) on the setting screen, which is displayed first after the channel of the setting changeover switch 300 is changed or after the power is turned on. The volume level is called the initial display (volume). When the channel is “0”, the initial display (volume) is “2”, when the channel is “1”, the initial display (volume) is “3”, and when the channel is “2”, Indicates that the initial display (volume) is “4”, the initial display (volume) is “6” when the channel is “3”, and the initial display (volume) is “6” when the channel is “4”. 8 ", and when the channel is" 5 "," 6 "," 7 "," 8 "," 9 ", the initial display (volume) is" 10 "," 11 "," 12 ", respectively. , “13”, and “14”. When the channel is “A” to “F”, the setting of the second volume level is restricted, and the setting screen of FIG. 26 is not displayed, so that the initial display is not set.

  The row of the actual volume range (channels “0” to “9”) indicates the range in which the volume can be taken. The number in parentheses described in the row of the volume range is the value of the second volume level (volume level highlighted) at that volume. For example, “2 (2)” indicates that the volume is “2” when the second volume level is “2”. As shown in FIG. 24, in this embodiment, when the channel is “0” to “4”, the volume is “2” to “14”. When the second volume level increases to “2”, “3”, “4”,..., “14”, the volume also corresponds to “2”, “3”, “4”,. "And go up. That is, the values of the volume and the second volume level match each other. When the channel is “5” to “9”, the volume is “10” to “22”. When the second volume level increases to “2”, “3”, “4”,..., “14”, the volume correspondingly increases to “10”, “11”, “12”,. "And go up. That is, the volume is a value obtained by adding “8” to the value of the second volume stage. In this embodiment, the range in which the actual volume can be taken differs depending on the first volume level.

  The row of the actual volume (channels “A” to “F”) indicates the volume set. When the channel is “A” to “F”, the setting of the second volume level is restricted and the volume is not changed, so that the volume is fixed. When the channel is “A”, the volume is “2”, when the channel is “B”, the volume is “4”, and when the channel is “C”, the volume is “7”. , The channels are “D”, “E”, and “F”, the volume is “10”, “15”, and “22”, respectively.

  The row of the initial display (light amount) indicates the light amount stage (second light amount stage) that is highlighted and displayed on the setting screen, which is displayed first after the channel of the setting changeover switch 300 is changed or when the power is turned on. The light amount stage is referred to as initial display (light amount). When the channel is “0” and “1”, the initial display (light amount) is “30%”, and when the channel is “2” and “3”, the initial display (light amount) is “65%”. (The light amount levels displayed on the setting screen are “30%”, “65%”, and “100%”). When the channel is “4” and “5”, the initial display (light amount) is “50%”, and when the channel is “6” and “7”, the initial display (light amount) is “75%”. When the channels are “8” and “9”, the initial display (light amount) is “75%” (the light amount steps displayed on the setting screen are “50%”, “75%”, “100%”). % "). When the channel is “A” to “F”, the setting of the second light amount stage is restricted, and the setting screen of FIG. 26 is not displayed, so that the initial display is not set.

  The row of the actual light amount range (channels “0” to “9”) indicates the range in which the light amount can be obtained. Unlike the sound volume, the light amount has the same value as the light amount stage (second light amount stage) that is highlighted (the value may be different for the sound volume). As shown in FIG. 24, in this embodiment, when the channel is “0” to “3”, the light amount is any one of “30%”, “65%”, and “100%”. When the channel is “4” to “9”, the light amount is one of “50%”, “75%”, and “100%”.

  The row of the actual light amount (when the channel is “A” to “F”) indicates the set light amount. When the channel is “A” to “F”, the setting of the second light amount stage is restricted and the light amount is not changed, so that the light amount is fixed. When the channel is “A” and “B”, the light amount is “35%”. When the channel is “C” and “D”, the light amount is “75%”. In the case of “F”, the initial display (light amount) is “100%”.

  The initial sound volume and the initial light amount at power-on may be determined in advance according to the channel of the setting switch 300 at power-on, for example. For example, in the initialization process of step S71, the effect control CPU 120 reads the channel of the setting changeover switch 300, and the stage (“0” to “F”) corresponding to the stage of the read channel (“0” to “F”). F ”, which corresponds to the channels one-to-one as described above) as the first volume level and the first light level (for example, stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 122), and the set first volume level The sound volume and the light amount may be set as the initial sound volume and the initial light amount based on the stage and the first light amount stage (for example, stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 122). The relationship between the first sound volume stage and the first light amount stage and the initial sound volume and the initial light amount may be determined in advance. The relationship is, for example, the relationship between “A” to “F” and the volume and the light amount shown in FIG. 24, and the volume at “0” to “9” in the second volume stage and the second light volume stage of the initial display. And the relationship with the light amount. After such a setting is made, thereafter, the effect is produced with the set initial volume and initial light amount (for example, the audio signal and the illumination signal also specify the set volume and light amount). Be executed.

  In the sound volume etc. setting process of FIG. 23, first, the effect control CPU 120 reads the current channel of the setting changeover switch 300 and determines whether the read channel has changed from before (step S701). For example, the effect control CPU 120 reads the channel of the setting changeover switch 300 every time step S701 is executed. For example, reading is performed by specifying the current channel based on a signal from the setting changeover switch 300. The effect control CPU 120 stores the read channels (data indicating the channels) sequentially in a predetermined area of the RAM 122 (a predetermined number of channels are stored, and thereafter, the oldest ones are sequentially updated). Good.) The effect control CPU 120 compares, for example, the channel read in the current step S701 with the channel read in the previous step S701 stored in the RAM 122. If the two are different, the channel has changed. (Step S701; Yes). In the first step S701 after the power is turned on, since there is no channel read in the previous step S701, it may be always determined that the channel has changed, and normally, there is no channel switching at this timing. Therefore, it may be determined that there is no change in the channel.

  When the channel of the setting change switch 300 is changing (when the channel is switched) (step S701; Yes), it is determined which of the channels “A” to “F” read in step S701. (Step S702). If the read channel is any of "A" to "F" (step S702; Yes), the setting is performed in accordance with the state of the setting switch 300 (current channel) (step S703). When the setting changeover switch 300 is any one of “A” to “F”, the setting of the second volume level and the second light level by the player is restricted (prohibited) (that is, the volume and the second level by the player). Adjustment of light quantity is limited.). For this reason, the volume and the light amount are set based on the channel of the setting changeover switch 300 (that is, the first volume level and the first light level).

  In step S703, the stage corresponding to the channel of the setting changeover switch 300 is set as a first sound volume stage and a first light intensity stage, and the volume and light intensity according to the set first volume stage and the first light intensity stage are set to the actual volume. And a light amount (for example, setting is performed by preparing a table having a relationship as shown in FIG. 24 in the ROM 121 and referring to the table). For example, if the channel of the setting switch 300 is “A”, “A” is set as the first volume level and the first light level, and the actual volume is set to “2” and the actual light level is set to “30%”. Set. If the channel of the setting switch 300 is “B”, “B” is set as the first volume level and the first light level, and the actual volume is set to “4” and the actual light level is set to “30%”. . Hereinafter, the setting is performed as shown in FIG. In this embodiment, once the volume and the light amount are set in step S703, the effect is performed with the set volume and the light amount (for example, the audio signal and the illumination signal also indicate the set volume and the light amount). Is specified). The channel of the setting switch 300 may be specified by the channel stored in the RAM 122 in step S701 (hereinafter, the same applies to the specification of the channel). The setting refers to, for example, storing information to be set (a first sound volume level or the like) in a predetermined area of the RAM 122 so that processing can be performed based on the information to be set thereafter (the same applies to setting). .).

  After step S703, if there is no channel change of the setting change switch 300 (step S701; No), or if the channel is not "A" to "F" (step S702; No), the process proceeds to step S704. In the process of step S704, effect control CPU 120 determines whether a demonstration screen is currently being displayed (step S704). When the demonstration screen is being displayed (Step S704; Yes), the operation to the stick controller 30 or the push button 31B is accepted. It is determined whether or not the player has performed an operation based on, for example, whether or not the indicated signal has been transmitted (step S707).

  If there is an operation by the player (step S707; Yes), effect control CPU 120 determines whether the operation is a menu call operation (step S708). For example, the demo screen includes an operation image indicating that the menu screen is read by pressing the push button 31B. The player can call the menu screen by operating the push button 31B. The effect control CPU 120 is currently displaying the operation image while the demo screen is being displayed, and if the operation of the player is the pressing of the push button 31B, the operation of the player Is determined (step S708; Yes).

  If the operation is a menu calling operation (step S708; Yes), the display control unit 123 is controlled to start displaying the above-described menu screen on the image display device 5 (step S709). The menu screen is displayed such that, for example, a layer of the menu screen is superimposed on a layer of the demo screen. As a result, the display of the demonstration screen is continued behind the menu screen (audio output and the like are also continued). Note that the display of the menu screen and the display of various screens that are switched from the menu screen (for example, the screen for setting the volume and light amount in FIG. 26) are ended by the start of the variable display of the decorative design and the like together with the display of the demo screen. When the channel of the setting changeover switch 300 is “A” to “F”, the effect control CPU 120 displays a menu screen having no “volume / light amount adjustment” item or a menu screen in which the item is darkened. Is displayed so that the item is not highlighted and the player is notified that the volume / light amount adjustment is restricted.

  After step S709, or when the player's operation is not a menu calling operation (step S708; No), the operation of the player who has determined that there is an operation is an operation of selecting a selection item of "volume / light amount adjustment". It is determined whether there is (step S710). For example, when the item of “volume / light amount adjustment” is currently highlighted on the menu screen, and when the operation of the player is the pressing of the push button 31B, the operation of the player is “volume / light amount adjustment”. It is determined that the operation is to select a selection item of “light amount adjustment” (step S711; Yes).

  In this case (step S711; Yes), the effect control CPU 120 controls the display control unit 123 to display an initial display (volume) and an initial display (light amount) according to the channel of the setting changeover switch 300 ( Control for starting display of a setting screen as shown in FIG. 26) is performed (step S712). The relationship between the channel and the initial display is, for example, the relationship shown in FIG. 24 (for example, the table of the relationship as shown in FIG. 24 is prepared in the ROM 121 and is referred to to display the initial display). For example, if the channel of the setting changeover switch 300 is “0”, a setting screen including a volume stage and a light amount stage in which the initial display (volume) is “2” and the initial display (light amount) is “30%” is displayed. . For example, if the channel of the setting changeover switch 300 is “5”, a setting screen in which the initial display (volume) is “10” and the initial display (light amount) is “50%” is displayed. For example, if the channel of the setting changeover switch 300 is “9”, a setting screen including a volume level and a light level step where the initial display (volume) is “14” and the initial display (light quantity) is “100%” is displayed. .

  After step S712, effect control CPU 120 sets the volume and light amount corresponding to the initial display and the like (step S713). For example, the effect control CPU 120 sets the stage corresponding to the channel of the setting changeover switch 300 as the first sound volume stage and the first light intensity stage, sets the stage of initial display (volume) as the second volume stage, and sets the initial stage. The display (light amount) stage is set as the second light amount stage. Also, the sound volume is set based on the set first sound volume stage and second sound volume stage. Further, the light amount is set based on the set first light amount stage and the second light amount stage. These settings are made, for example, by preparing a table of the relationship as shown in FIG. For example, if the channel of the setting switch 300 is “0”, “0” is set as the first volume level and the first light level, “2” is set as the second volume level, and the second light level is set as the second volume level. “30%” is set, and “2” is set as the volume according to the set first volume level and second volume level, and “30%” is set as the volume according to the set first and second volume levels. Is set. If the channel of the setting change switch 300 is “5”, “5” is set as the first volume level and the first light level, “10” is set as the second volume level, and “50” is set as the second light level. % "," 10 "is set as the volume according to the set first volume level and the second volume level, and" 50% "is set as the volume according to the set first and second volume levels. Set. If the channel of the setting switch 300 is “9”, “9” is set as the first volume level and the first light level, “14” is set as the second volume level, and “100” is set as the second light level. % "," 14 "is set as the volume according to the set first volume level and the second volume level, and" 100% "is set as the volume according to the set first and second volume levels. Set. The light amount may be set based only on the second light amount stage. After such a setting is made, thereafter, an effect is performed with the set volume and light amount (for example, the audio signal and the illumination signal also specify the set volume and light amount). You.

  After step S713, or when the operation of the player is not an operation of selecting the selection item of “volume / light amount adjustment” (step S713; No), the operation of the player who has determined that the operation has been performed determines the volume or light amount. It is determined whether the operation is a change operation (step S715). For example, in the setting screen of FIG. 26, when the operation club of the stick controller 30 is tilted in the front-back direction, the adjustment of the volume and the adjustment of the light amount can be switched. For example, one of the area 5HH and the area 5HL is thickened to change the color, and one of the areas is highlighted. The highlighted region is the region to be operated. When the operation club of the stick controller 30 is tilted in the left-right direction, when the area 5HH is highlighted, the volume level (second volume level) to be highlighted is changed, and the area 5HL is highlighted. In this case, the light amount stage (second light amount stage) to be highlighted is changed. In FIG. 26, the region 5HL is highlighted. In this state, when the operation club of the stick controller 30 is tilted in the front-rear direction, the area 5HH is highlighted. The effect control CPU 120 is presently displaying the volume / light amount setting screen (see FIG. 26), and in the case where the operation of the player is a tilting operation of the operation club of the stick controller 30 in the left-right direction. It is determined that the operation of the player is an operation for changing the volume (second volume level) or the light quantity (second light level) (step S708; Yes).

  If the operation of the player is an operation of changing the volume (second volume level) or the light quantity (second volume level) (step S708; Yes), the effect control CPU 120 highlights the display according to the operation content. Display control for changing the sound volume level (second volume level) or the light level (second light level) is performed (step S716). For example, when the operation of the player is an operation of tilting the operation club of the stick controller 30 to the left, the light amount stage and the volume stage that are highlighted are reduced by one stage (if the current stage is the lowest stage, the lowest stage is performed). Is maintained). When the operation of the player is an operation of tilting the operation club of the stick controller 30 to the right, the light amount stage and the sound volume stage to be highlighted are raised by one stage (if the current stage is the top stage, the top stage is maintained). Display control is performed as follows. For example, in the state of FIG. 26, when the operation club is tilted to the left, the light level (second light level) to be highlighted is changed from “75%” to “50%”. Further, when the tilting operation is performed to the left, the light amount stage (second light amount stage) that is highlighted is kept at “50%”. Light intensity can be maintained.). For example, in the state of FIG. 26, when the operation club is tilted to the right, the light amount stage (second light amount stage) to be highlighted is changed from “75%” to “100%”. Further, when the tilting operation is performed to the left, the light amount stage (second light amount stage) that is highlighted is kept at “100%”. Light intensity can be maintained.).

  After step S716, the effect control CPU 120 maintains the currently set first volume level or first light level, and after the change (here, the uppermost level or the lower level regardless of the operation). The sound volume or the light amount is set based on the highlighted sound volume stage or light amount stage (step S717). For example, when the highlighted volume level is changed, the changed enhanced volume level is set as a new second volume level, and the first volume level and the newly set second volume level are set. Set a new volume based on that. When the highlighted light amount stage is changed, the changed emphasized light amount stage is set as a new second light amount stage, and based on the first light amount stage and the newly set second light amount stage. Set a new light intensity. For example, when the volume level of the highlighted display is changed from “2” or “4” to “3” when the first volume level is “0”, “3” is set as the second volume level, and Is set to "3". For example, when the volume level of the highlighted display is changed from "13" to "14" when the first volume level is "6", "14" is set as the second volume level and "22" is set as the volume. Set. For example, when the first light level is “6” and the light level of the highlighted display is changed from “75%” to “100%”, “100%” is set as the second light level and the light level is set as the second light level. Set “100%”. After such a setting is made, thereafter, an effect is performed with the set volume and light amount (for example, the audio signal and the illumination signal also specify the set volume and light amount). You.

  After step S717, the effect control CPU 120 determines that the light amount or volume has been changed from the speakers 8L and 8R by the output of the command (audio signal) to the audio control board 13 (it has been maintained despite the operation). Is output (step S718). The confirmation sound at this time is the set volume (in the case of a change in the volume, the changed volume can be confirmed.), But when the top level is maintained despite the operation being performed. May be output at the maximum volume. If the minimum level is maintained despite the operation, the output may be performed at the minimum volume (in order to make the confirmation sound easier to understand, the output is performed at a volume higher than the minimum volume. May be.). Furthermore, instead of or in addition to the confirmation sound, the notification may be performed by lighting or blinking a game effect lamp, a decoration LED, or the like. The amount of light at this time is the set amount of light (in the case of changing the amount of light, the amount of light after the change can be confirmed). If the highest level is maintained despite the operation, the output may be performed at the maximum light amount. In the case where the minimum level is maintained despite the operation, the output may be performed with the minimum light amount (in order to make the notification by lighting etc. easy to understand, the output with the light amount larger than the minimum light amount is performed. May be performed.) The luminous body for the notification may be provided exclusively for the notification. As a result, the notification can be easily understood. For confirmation after the change, at least a confirmation sound may be output when the volume is changed, and at least a notification by lighting or the like may be performed when the light amount is changed.

  After step S718, or when the player's operation is not the operation of changing the volume or the light amount (step S715; No), the operation of the player who has determined that the operation has been performed is another operation other than the above operations. Is determined (step S719). If it is another operation (step S719; Yes), a process corresponding to the other operation is executed (step S720). For example, when the operation club of the stick controller 30 is operated while the menu screen is displayed, display control for changing the highlighted selection item is performed. When the push button 31B is pressed while the menu screen is displayed, display control for switching and displaying a new screen corresponding to the selection item highlighted at that time is performed. When the operation club of the stick controller 30 is tilted in the front-back direction while the volume / light amount adjustment setting screen is displayed, the region to be highlighted is sequentially changed to one of the region 5HH, the region 5HL, and the item "return to menu". . If the push button 31B is pressed when the item "return to menu" is highlighted, display control for returning to the menu screen is performed.

  After step S720, if the operation is not another operation (step S719; No), if the demo screen is not being displayed (step S704; No), or if there is no operation (step S704; No), the process ends.

  Through such a series of processes, a change in volume or light amount is realized. For example, as shown in FIG. 25, when the channel of the setting changeover switch 300 is changed from “0” to “9” during the game, the change of the channel is performed on the setting screen of the volume / light amount adjustment (FIG. 26 and the like). Is displayed, and at this time, the first volume level and the first light level corresponding to the channel after the change are set, and the first volume level and the first light level and the initial display (volume) and the initial display (Light quantity) and the volume and light quantity are changed. If the channel of the setting changeover switch 300 is changed from “A” to “F” during the game, the change is immediately reflected. That is, the first volume level and the first light level corresponding to the changed channel are immediately set. Further, every time the second volume level or the second light level in the setting screen is changed by operating the operation club of the stick controller 30, the light volume or the volume is changed and a confirmation sound is output.

  In this embodiment, with such a configuration, the stage of the initial display (volume) and the initial display (light amount) (the initial display of the second sound volume stage and the second light amount stage) change the state of the channel ( (The first volume level or the first light level), and the state of the channel of the setting switch 300 is related to the second volume level and the second light level. It is easy to grasp the state of the channel of the setting change switch 300, and it is difficult for the second volume level and the second light level actually displayed to be the same even though the first volume level and the first light level are different, As a result, the actual volume and light amount are less likely to be erroneously recognized, and the volume and light amount can be adjusted appropriately. In the above embodiment, the initial display (volume) and the initial display (light amount) are different between when the first volume level and the first light level are the highest level and when the first level is the lowest level. The actual volume and light amount are hardly misidentified, and the volume and light amount can be adjusted appropriately. Further, in the above embodiment, when the initial display (volume) and the initial display (light amount) are other than the first volume level and the first light level, the second volume level other than the highest level (“2” to “2”) 13 ") and the second light level (" 30% "," 65% "," 50% "," 75% "), and the first volume level and the first light level are the highest levels. Sometimes, it indicates the second volume level (“14”) or the second light quantity level (“100%”), which is the highest level, so that the actual volume or light quantity is less likely to be misidentified. Can be adjusted. In addition, with this configuration, the volume and the light amount do not become larger than the settings on the game store side, so that the game store side sets the first volume level and the first light amount stage to the maximum to output an unintended loud sound. Or lighting with bright light is prevented.

  Further, when the channel of the setting change switch 300 is changed, the first volume level and the first light level are set for the first time when the setting screen is displayed, and the actual volume and the light level are reflected, so that the player does not intend. Timing (Since the player cannot normally set the first volume level and the first light level, even if the first volume level and the first light level are changed, the player may want the volume and the light level before the change. ) Prevents the volume and light amount from being changed (since the player intends to change the volume and light amount by displaying the setting screen, there is little inconvenience even if the volume or light amount is changed at this time).

  When the first volume level increases, the initial display (volume) also increases, so that the relationship between the first volume level and the second volume level can be easily grasped, so that the volume can be suitably adjusted. Since the initial display (light amount) increases as the first light amount stage increases, the relationship between the first light amount stage and the second light amount stage can be easily grasped, so that the light amount can be suitably adjusted. In addition, since the confirmation sound is output at the time of setting the second volume level, the setting can be confirmed even with the sound at the second volume level, so that the volume can be suitably adjusted. As the channels of the setting change switch 300, "A" to "F" for limiting the adjustment of the volume and light amount of the player are prepared, so that the volume setting and the light amount setting on the player side can be limited, and It is possible to prevent audio output at an unacceptable volume. In addition, since the menu screen without the item of “volume / light amount adjustment” is displayed instead of the menu screen with the item of “volume / light amount adjustment” during the restriction, the setting of the second volume level is limited. This can be notified to the player.

  In this embodiment, with the above configuration, a gaming machine for playing a game (here, the pachinko gaming machine 1) and the first permission condition for the amusement shop is satisfied (here, setting switching is performed). Based on a first operation (here, a channel switching operation of the setting changeover switch 300) performed when the switch 300 is made operable, one of the plurality of stages is set to a first sound volume stage (here, a first volume stage). The first setting means (here, the CPU 120 for effect control for setting the first volume level in step S77) to be set as the first volume level, and when the second permission condition for the player is satisfied (here, Then, based on the second operation (here, the operation of the stick controller 30 on the operation club) performed when the volume adjustment setting screen as shown in FIG. The second setting means (here, the effect control CPU 120 for setting the second volume level in step S77) for setting the step as a second volume level (here, the first volume level), and the first setting means Audio output control means for outputting an audio having a volume corresponding to the set first volume level and the second volume level set by the second setting means from an audio output unit (here, speakers 8L and 8R). (Here, the effect control CPU 120 that sets the sound volume based on the first sound volume stage and the second sound volume stage in step S77 and then performs the effect at the set sound volume) and a display that can be visually recognized by the player. A display means having an area (here, the image display device 5) and a display control means for controlling the display means to control display contents displayed in the display area (here, FIG. 26). A volume or display setting screen for adjustment, and effect control for CPU 120) for controlling the display or to change the volume step to be highlighted, the gaming machine is configured with a.

  In the above embodiment, with the above configuration, the display control means displays a stage indicating the second volume level when the second operation is performed (here, one of a plurality of volume levels is displayed as a second level). An area 5HH highlighted as two volume levels is displayed in the display area (here, the effect control CPU 120 for performing display control for displaying a volume adjustment setting screen as shown in FIG. 26), and the step display is performed. The step display is displayed such that the initial display of the step display at the time of displaying is different according to the first volume step set by the first setting means (see FIG. 24 or the like in this case). Thus, the effect control CPU 120 performs display control for displaying the initial display (volume) on the volume adjustment setting screen as shown in FIG. 26 according to the first volume level. According to such a configuration, the sound volume can be suitably adjusted.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, according to the above configuration, the initial display of the step display when displaying the step display is performed when the first volume level set by the first setting means is the highest level and when the first volume level is the lowest level. 26 (here, see FIG. 24 and the like), the step display is displayed (here, the initial display (volume) on the volume adjustment setting screen as shown in FIG. 26 is changed to the first volume step. Effect control CPU 120) for performing display control for displaying according to the above. According to such a configuration, the sound volume can be suitably adjusted. When the first volume level is other than the highest level and the lowest level, the initial display may be the same, or the initial display may be the same for a plurality of the first volume levels. Even in such a case, at the highest stage and the lowest stage, at least erroneous recognition of the volume is hardly erroneous, and the volume can be adjusted appropriately.

  Further, in the above embodiment, according to the above configuration, the initial display of the stage display when displaying the stage display is the highest stage when the first volume level set by the first setting means is other than the highest stage. The second volume level other than the first volume level, and the second volume level which is the highest level when the first volume level is the highest level (refer to FIG. 24 and the like herein). The display is displayed (in this case, the effect control CPU 120 that performs display control to display the initial display (volume) on the volume adjustment setting screen as shown in FIG. 26 according to the first volume level). According to such a configuration, the sound volume can be suitably adjusted. When the first volume level is other than the highest level, the initial display may be the same, or the initial display may be the same for a plurality of the first volume levels. Even in such a case, at the highest stage, at least erroneous recognition of the volume or the like is unlikely to be erroneously recognized, and the volume can be adjusted appropriately.

  "Audio output control means for outputting an audio having a volume corresponding to the first volume level set by the first setting means and the second volume level set by the second setting means from an audio output unit" Each time a voice is output, a voice having a volume corresponding to both the first volume level and the second volume level may be output, or may be output during a first period (for example, after the first setting, the second setting). During the previous period), an audio having a volume corresponding to at least the first volume level is output, and during a second period (for example, during a period after the second setting), an audio having a volume corresponding to at least the second volume level is output. May be used. For example, when the actual volume does not depend on the channel (first volume level) of the setting changeover switch 300 as in the relationship shown in FIG. 32 described later, normally (for example, when the second operation is performed) When the first volume level is set (for example, setting is prohibited when the channel of the setting change switch 300 is “A” to “F”), the volume is set based on the second volume level, not based on the first volume level. The volume (for example, the initial volume) may be set according to the first volume level, not based on the second volume level, only when the state or the initial volume or the initial light amount when the power is turned on. .

  The “initial display of the stage display when displaying the stage display” may be, for example, a stage display first displayed after the first volume stage is set by the first setting unit, The stage display may be the first stage display that is displayed after the power of the gaming machine is turned on, or may be the first stage display that is displayed in one period during which the second operation can be performed. Good (see the above embodiment). Note that the initial display when the stage display is displayed for the first time after the second operation is performed may indicate the second volume stage before being changed by the second operation. That is, the initial display may indicate a volume level corresponding to the first volume level after the first operation is performed and before the second operation is performed, and is not actually displayed. You may.

  For example, the stage display may be any display that can specify a second volume stage (a currently set second volume stage or a second volume stage to be set, etc.), and as shown in FIG. The second volume level may be displayed as a bar with a number of squares corresponding to the number of squares. In this case, a volume control button or the like is provided, and when the volume control button is operated first during the demonstration, first, the bar is displayed as an initial display as an initial display, and the subsequent operation of the volume control button (in FIG. 30, The display may be controlled so as to increase or decrease the number of squares (in FIG. 30, decrease by one) according to the volume, that is, the operation of lowering the second volume level. As described above, a dedicated operation unit for adjusting the volume may be provided, and the volume may be adjusted when an operation is performed on the operation unit. As will be described later, the second volume level to be set is a second volume level in a case where the volume level being displayed (for example, the volume level of the highlighted display) is changed and then the second volume level is set by the determination button or the like. It is a stage. The stage display may indicate, for example, a second volume stage (a currently set second volume stage or a second volume stage to be set) by a number.

  For example, in the stage display, as in FIG. 30, the second volume level is displayed as a bar with a number of squares corresponding to the second volume level, and when the volume control button is operated first during the demonstration, the volume control button is displayed. A bar in which the number of squares is increased or decreased according to the operation (in FIG. 31, the operation of lowering the volume, that is, the second volume level) may be displayed first (FIG. 31). In this case, a virtual bar before the increase or decrease may be set as the initial display. As described above, the initial display may indicate a volume level corresponding to the first volume level after the first operation is performed and before the second operation is performed, and may not be actually displayed. It may be.

  "Different according to the first volume level set by the first setting means" means that the second volume level changes corresponding to at least a part of the possible changes of the first volume level. This is an expression that includes For example, the second volume level may change by one step each time the first volume level changes by one level, or may change by one level when the first volume level changes by a plurality of levels. That is, the first volume level and the second volume level do not need to change one-to-one. For example, as shown in FIG. 32, the channel of the setting changeover switch 300 (here, also at the first volume level) may correspond to the initial display or the actual volume range on a one-to-one basis, or as shown in FIG. As described above, one initial display or volume may be assigned to a plurality of channels (here, also the first volume level). Further, as shown in FIG. 34, the range of the actual sound volume may be shifted for each of a plurality of channels (here, also at the first sound volume stage). Note that the plurality of channels and the first volume level correspond one-to-one in the above-described embodiment and the like, but need not be one-to-one if there is a certain correspondence relationship. For example, one first volume level may be assigned to a plurality of channels.

  Further, in this embodiment, according to the above configuration, the display control means sets the second volume level indicated by the initial display as the first volume level set by the first setting section is higher. (Here, see FIG. 24). According to such a configuration, the relationship between the first volume level and the second volume level can be easily grasped, so that the volume can be suitably adjusted. The higher the first volume level, the lower the second volume level of the initial display may be. For example, if the actual volume range becomes higher as the first volume level becomes higher, the higher the first volume level, the lower the second volume level of the initial display becomes. Can be prevented from increasing.

  Further, in this embodiment, according to the above configuration, when the second volume level is newly set by the second setting means, the sound output control unit confirms that the sound has been newly set. Is output from the audio output unit, and when the first volume level is newly set by the first setting means, a confirmation sound indicating that the new volume level is set is not output from the audio output unit (here, In step S77, effect control CPU 120 performs output control of the confirmation sound when the second volume level is set, but does not perform output control of the confirmation sound when the first volume level is set. According to such a configuration, the setting can be confirmed even with sound in the second sound volume stage, so that the sound volume can be suitably adjusted. Note that the confirmation sound may always be a fixed volume regardless of the change in volume set above (the volume is changed in the above embodiment). Similarly, for example, a predetermined notification sound such as a warning sound when an abnormality occurs in the pachinko gaming machine 1 (a notification sound that is not related to the effect and that needs to be notified to the gaming shop) is also fixed. It is good to This can prevent the notification sound from being lowered by the player.

  The plurality of possible steps of the first volume level set by the first setting means include a limiting step of restricting the second setting means from setting the second volume level (here, The one volume level includes “A” to “F”), and when the restriction step is set as the first volume level by the first setting means, the gaming machine sets the second setting means. Is a setting restricting means for restricting the setting of the second volume level (here, when “A” to “F” is set as the first volume level, the item of “volume / light amount adjustment” In such a configuration, the volume setting on the player side can be restricted, and audio output at a volume that is not intended by the gaming store can be prevented.

  Further, in this embodiment, with the above-described configuration, the display control unit performs the second permission when the setting restriction is performed by the setting restriction unit during the period in which the second permission condition is satisfied. A corresponding image (here, a menu screen having “volume / light amount adjustment”) corresponding to the condition being satisfied is displayed in the display area, and when the setting restriction is not performed, the corresponding image is displayed. It is not displayed in the display area (here, control is performed to display a menu screen having no "volume / light amount adjustment" item instead of a menu screen having "volume / light amount adjustment" item). According to such a configuration, the player can be notified that the setting of the second volume level is restricted. In the above embodiment, the sound volume and the light amount are limited, but either one may be limited. Further, one or both of the volume and the light amount may be limited according to the channel. In the case of restricting one of them, the restriction mode area may not be displayed on the setting screen as shown in FIG.

  It is to be noted that the apparatus may further include a predetermined effect executing means for executing a predetermined effect in response to the second operation being performed while the setting restriction is being performed by the setting restricting means. For example, when the second operation is performed when the channel of the setting change switch 300 is “A” to “F” (here, when the volume adjustment button is pressed, or when the “volume / light amount adjustment” is selected) Is displayed on the menu screen and when an operation for selecting a selection item of “volume / light amount adjustment” is performed), the effect control CPU 120 controls the audio control board 13 to An output control of a warning sound such as a buzzer sound indicating that the change cannot be performed is performed. According to such a configuration, the player can be notified that the setting of the second volume level is restricted. Instead of or in addition to a warning sound such as a buzzer sound, a display indicating that the volume cannot be changed may be displayed on the image display device 5. Alternatively, instead of or in addition to the display, the notification may be performed by lighting or blinking a game effect lamp, a decoration LED, or the like. The volume of the warning sound or the light amount of the lighting may be a set volume or a light amount, or may be a fixed volume or a light amount equal to or larger than a predetermined value (for example, a maximum). The luminous body for the notification may be provided exclusively for the notification. As a result, the notification can be easily understood.

  Further, the second setting means clears the second volume level being set at a predetermined timing (in this case, when it can be determined that the player has been changed), and performs an initial setting step (here, initial display ( Volume)) is set as the second volume level, and the first volume level set by the first setting means is changed only based on the first operation (here, the setting changeover switch 300 is physically set). Reset because there is no switch).

  For example, effect control CPU 120 may perform the process in FIG. 27 at a predetermined timing in the volume etc. setting process. The production control CPU 120 determines whether or not the player has been changed (step S751). For example, (A) a game such as when a hold storage does not occur for a certain period of time, a menu screen is not displayed, a demo screen is displayed for a certain period of time, or a game medium is not fired for a certain period of time. Has not progressed for a certain period of time, or (B) when outputting various information such as a two-dimensional code indicating game data (performed based on various operations), when a player inputs a predetermined password. (Based on various operations), a game start item is prepared on the menu screen, and a game start instruction operation (such as inputting a password or selecting a start) is performed when an operation to select this item is performed. ) Or an operation to instruct the end of the game (such as an operation for outputting various information), it is determined that the player has been changed. FIG. 35 and FIG. 36 are explanatory diagrams of a configuration using game data. At the end of the game, the player operates the stick controller 30 or the like while viewing the menu screen to specify the output of a two-dimensional code (indicating game data of the current game). Then, effect control CPU 120 performs control to display a screen for outputting a two-dimensional code as shown in FIG. 36 on image display device 5. The two-dimensional code is read by the player's mobile phone 901 or the like, and the data indicated by the two-dimensional code is transmitted to a predetermined management server 900 via the Internet or the like. The management server 900 manages the data for each player, and when a predetermined condition is satisfied by the accumulation of the data (for example, the number of clear missions exceeds a predetermined number), a video or the like that is difficult to normally view is displayed by the player. To the mobile phone 901. In this way, a privilege is provided. In addition, as various information, at the end of the game, a password having contents corresponding to the game may be output instead of the two-dimensional code, and the player may input the password at the start of the game. By inputting the password, for example, the effect mode may be changed, or it may be possible to change that the normal volume or light amount cannot be changed. In this way, a privilege may be given.

  When the player is changed (step S751; Yes), it is determined whether the channel of the setting changeover switch 300 is “A” to “F” (step S752), and when it is not “A” to “F”, Since the adjustment of the volume and the light amount by the player is not restricted, the initialization is performed according to the state of the setting changeover switch (step S753). In the initial setting, the sound volume and light amount corresponding to the state (channel) of the setting changeover switch are set, but the relationship between the channel and the sound volume or light amount may be determined in advance. For example, in the initial setting, the same processing as the setting of the initial sound volume and the initial light amount when the power is turned on (see above) may be performed.

  When there is no change of the player (step S751; No), when the channel of the setting changeover switch 300 is “A” to “F” (step S752; Yes), after the step S753, other processing such as volume setting is performed. Or the processing for setting the volume etc. is ended.

  In such a configuration, it is possible to prevent a game from being played while the second volume level set by the second setting means is unintentionally dragged (especially against the intention of the player).

  In the above embodiment, when a power failure or the like occurs, the volume setting and the like are not backed up. Therefore, the volume is initialized when the power is restored, but the volume once set is backed up for a certain period of time ( For example, a backup RAM may be provided), and the backed-up sound volume may be reset when the power is turned on again. When the power is turned on again, as described above, if it is determined that there is a change in the player (data necessary for the determination may be backed up), initialization may be performed.

  Further, in this embodiment, with the above-described configuration, the gaming machine can perform the first operation to any one of a plurality of positions corresponding to a plurality of possible levels of the first volume level as an operation target of the first operation. An operation device (here, a setting changeover switch 300) including a displacement unit that physically displaces is provided, and the first setting unit is configured to perform the first volume step according to a position of the displacement unit that is displaced by the first operation. Is set as the first volume level based on the first operation (here, the effect control CPU 120 sets the first volume level in accordance with the channel of the setting changeover switch 300 in step S77), and the audio output control means After the position of the displacement section is changed, when the step display is displayed by the display control means, a new setting is made by the first setting means. The sound output unit starts to output the sound of the sound volume according to the set first sound volume stage (here, in step S77, when the setting screen is displayed after changing the channel of the setting changeover switch 300). The effect control CPU 120 sets the volume according to the new first volume level. With such a configuration, the sound volume can be suitably adjusted.

  The “position of the displacement section” at which the first volume level is set may be any one of a plurality of positions where the displacement section can be located, or the position of the displacement section. It may be any one of all the plurality of positions to be obtained. In this way, an operation unit such as the setting changeover switch 300 may be configured. Further, "when the step display is displayed by the display control means" means, in addition to the predetermined timing and the timing of displaying the step display during the period in which the step display is displayed, the timing at which the step display is determined to be displayed ( For example, the timing at which it is determined that the operation of displaying the step display has been performed, such as a determination of Yes in step S710, includes, for example, in this case, steps S712 and S713 are interchanged), and the determined timing. This also includes a predetermined timing during a period from when the stage display is displayed. The effect control CPU 120 may set the volume at any one of these timings, for example. Note that the predetermined timing may be, for example, when a predetermined event occurs.

  For example, after the position of the displacement section is changed, the sound output control means may newly change the second volume level set by the second setting means by the first setting means. The sound output unit may start outputting sound having a sound volume corresponding to the set first sound volume stage. For example, the change of the channel of the setting switch 300 (change of the first volume level) and the reflection of the change of the volume by the change (that is, the reflection of the volume) are performed at the time of the volume change operation (for example, the second volume level). Setting, etc.). The change of the first volume level may be performed internally, and the change of the actual volume may be reflected at the time of the volume change operation (for example, at the time of setting the second volume level). For example, when the channel of the setting switch 300 is configured to be input to a predetermined input port such as the effect control CPU 120 at the time of channel switching, the effect of the effect is not changed by the effect control CPU 120 but by the effect change operation of the effect control CPU 120. Setting the volume by setting the second volume level based on the content read by software or the like may be a reflection of the change in volume (volume setting), or the effect control CPU 120 The second volume level is set based on the input contents read by software (reading is performed at the time of channel switching) (either at the time of channel switching or at the time of changing operation), and at the time of the changing operation. Setting the volume based on the second volume level as described above may be a reflection of the volume change (volume setting). Note that “when the second volume level set by the second setting means is changed” means that the second operation is performed (for example, at the time of the second operation) or the second volume level is changed by the second operation. It may be any time when a new setting is made (for example, when the second volume level is set).

  Note that the above configuration may be applied to the light amount in addition to or instead of the sound volume.

  Further, as shown in FIGS. 28 and 29, even if there is an operation of changing the volume or the light amount, the volume stage or the light amount stage to be highlighted is changed, but the setting of the volume or the light amount is performed until the setting operation is performed. It may not be performed. For example, in the setting screen as shown in FIG. 29, the player changes the volume level or light level to be highlighted by operating the stick controller 30, and finally pushes the push button 31B. By this pressing, the effect control CPU 120 may set the second volume level and the second light level in accordance with the volume level and the light level highlighted at that time, and set the volume and the light level. (In this case, the volume level and light level to be highlighted, and the areas 5HH and 5HL indicate the second volume level and second light level to be set.) For example, as shown in FIG. 28, when there is a volume determination operation or a light amount determination operation (depression of the push button 31B), the change of the volume or the light amount may be set. Further, as shown in FIG. 28, even when the setting change switch is operated, the operation is not reflected at the start of the display of the setting screen, and the operation of changing the volume display (that is, the operation of changing the volume level of the highlighted display) is performed. ), The first volume level may be set. In addition, when there is a change operation of the light amount display (that is, an operation of changing the light amount stage of the highlighted display), the first light amount stage may be set. Note that the first volume level and the first light level are set before that (for example, at the time of channel operation), and at the time of the change operation, the volume change and the light level based on the first volume level and the first light level are performed. Changes may be set. The setting of these changes may be performed at the time of the operation of determining the volume and the light amount. In this case, the sound volume and the light amount are set using the second sound volume stage and the second light amount stage.

  The present invention can be further modified and applied to the above-described embodiment and the like. For example, the pachinko gaming machine 1 does not need to have all the technical features shown in the above-described embodiments and the like, and one of the pachinko gaming machines described in the above-described embodiments so as to solve at least one problem in the related art. It may have a configuration of a unit. Hereinafter, a modified example of the above embodiment will be described. At least some of the following modifications may be combined.

(Modification 1)
In the above-described embodiment, the setting changeover switch 300 is provided as an operation unit that can be operated by the game store. However, the operation device may be the stick controller 30 or the like. As the time for the operation to be performed in the predetermined period, the first volume level and the first light level may be set by the stick controller 30 or the like. That is, the operation target of the first operation and the operation target of the second operation may be the same. Note that a jog dial, a cross key, or the like may be provided as operation means instead of the setting changeover switch 300. Further, the operation means that can be operated by the player side may be a dedicated operation device such as a changeover switch, a jog dial, a cross key, or the like for setting the volume and light amount. The adjustment of the light amount may be performed by an operation device different from the adjustment of the volume. In the above embodiment, the setting changeover switch 300 (knob In this operating device, a rotary fader or a jog dial on which the displacement unit (knob or the like) rotates, and the displacement unit (knob or the like) move in the vertical or horizontal direction. It may be a linear fader or the like. The displacement includes rotation, movement in the vertical direction, or movement in the horizontal direction. The displacement unit may be a device that moves stepwise like the setting changeover switch 300 or a device that moves continuously (for example, a fader). Further, the position at which the displacement portion is displaced (in the case of rotation, it may be represented by a rotation angle or the like) and the plurality of positions corresponding to the plurality of possible levels of the first volume level correspond one-to-one. You do not have to. For example, one of a plurality of possible steps of the first sound volume step may be set corresponding to a plurality of positions where the displacement unit can be displaced. The audio output unit only needs to output audio, and may be any of the speakers 8R and 8L.

(Modification 2)
The operation of the operation means that can be operated by the game store side is not limited to the time of turning on the power, and may be performed at any time. That is, the first permission condition may always be satisfied. Note that the first permission condition is a condition for a game store, and when this condition is satisfied, in principle, an operation is performed by an employee of a game store (a game room where a game machine is set) or the like. It is assumed that The operation of the operation means that can be operated by the player side (that is, the operation of changing the second volume level and the second light level to change the volume and the light quantity) can be performed during the big hit game state, the variable display of the decorative symbol, and the like. Or may be made available at any time. That is, the second permission condition may always be satisfied. Note that the second permission condition is a condition for a player, and when this condition is satisfied, it is assumed that, in principle, an operation is performed by the player (except for an employee May be operated in business etc.). For example, during the big hit game state, the type of music (such as BGM) flowing during the big hit can be selected according to the tilting operation of the operating club of the stick controller 30 in the front-rear direction, and according to the tilting operation of the operating club in the left-right direction. Alternatively, the volume and light amount (second volume level and second light level) may be changed. By accepting the change operation during the big hit game state, the big hit game state according to the player's preference is realized. Also, for example, during the variable display, when a specific effect is being performed, the volume and the light amount (the second volume level and the second light level) are changed according to the tilting operation of the operation club in the left-right direction. You may. As a result, the volume and light amount at the time of executing a specific effect can be changed according to the preference of the player. Further, when a specific effect is not performed, the sound volume and the light amount (second sound volume stage and second light amount stage) may be changed according to the tilting operation of the operation club in the left-right direction. This is particularly effective when the specific effect is an effect that accepts an operation on the same operation unit as the operation unit for changing the volume or the light amount. As a result, it is possible to prevent the operation on the operation unit from being affected by both. In addition, when accepting a change in volume or light amount during execution of an effect that accepts an operation on the operation unit, an operation unit for changing the volume or light amount and an operation unit for effect may be provided separately. This prevents duplication of operations.

(Modification 3)
In the case where the adjustment of the sound volume and the light amount by the player is restricted, the sound volume and the light amount may be minimized or may be maximized. In the case of restricting, the mode may be shifted to the power saving mode. In the above-described embodiment, when the operation of changing the second volume level or the second light amount stage is performed, when the second volume level or the second light amount stage is at the highest level, the highest level is maintained by performing the operation of raising the level. May be shifted to the minimum stage. In the above-described embodiment, when the second volume level or the second light level is changed, the lowest level is maintained by performing an operation of lowering the second volume level or the second light level when the second level is set to the lowest level. However, the process may move to the maximum stage.

(Modification 4)
In the above embodiment, in order to notify the effect control board 12 of a variation pattern indicating a variation mode such as a variation time, a type of reach effect, and the presence or absence of a pseudo-run, one variation pattern command is issued when the variation is started. Although the transmission example has been described, the variation pattern may be notified to the effect control board 12 by two or more commands. Specifically, when the notification is made by two commands, the game control microcomputer 100 uses the first command to determine whether or not there is a pseudo run, whether or not there is a sliding effect, etc. A command indicating the fluctuation time and the fluctuation mode before the second stop is transmitted, and the second command is used to indicate the type of reach and the presence or absence of a re-lottery effect. A command indicating the fluctuation time and the fluctuation mode after 2 stops) may be transmitted. In this case, the effect control board 12 may perform the effect control in the variable display based on the variable time derived from the combination of the two commands. Note that the game control microcomputer 100 notifies the fluctuating time by each of the two commands, and the effect control board 12 selects the specific fluctuating mode executed at each timing. Is also good. When two commands are sent, two commands may be sent within the same timer interrupt. After the first command is sent, a predetermined period 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 changed as appropriate. In this manner, 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.

(Modification 5)
In addition, the image display operation of the image display device, the sound output operation of the speaker, and the lighting operation of the game effect lamp and the decoration LED for executing the device configuration and data configuration of the gaming machine, the processing shown in the flowchart, and the like. Various effect operations including the above can be arbitrarily changed and modified without departing from the spirit of the present invention. In addition, the gaming machine of the present invention is not limited to a payout-type gaming machine that pays out a predetermined number of game media as a prize based on the occurrence of a prize, but is not limited to a payout type gaming machine, and is provided with a score based on the occurrence of a prize. Can also be applied to an enclosed game machine.

  The program and data for realizing the present invention are not limited to a form distributed and provided by a removable recording medium to a computer device included in the gaming machine, such as the pachinko gaming machine 1, for example. Alternatively, the distribution may be performed by pre-installing in a storage device such as a computer device in advance. Furthermore, by providing a communication processing unit, programs and data for implementing the present invention are distributed by downloading from other devices on a network connected via a communication line or the like. It does not matter.

  The game can be executed not only by installing a removable recording medium, but also by temporarily storing a program and data downloaded via a communication line or the like in an internal memory or the like. Alternatively, the program may be directly executed using hardware resources of another device on a network connected via a communication line or the like. Furthermore, the game may be executed by exchanging data with another computer device or the like via a network.

(Modification 6)
The technical idea in the above embodiment can be applied to all gaming machines for playing games. For example, the present invention is not limited to the pachinko gaming machine 1 in which a game ball is fired as a game medium in a game area to perform a predetermined game, and a predetermined game value can be given based on the game result. The present invention can be applied to any gaming machine capable of performing a predetermined game such as variable display of a symbol and providing a predetermined game value based on the game result. More specifically, the game can be started by setting a predetermined number of bets (the number of medals or the number of credits) for one game, and a plurality of types of identification information (symbols) that can be identified can be varied. One game is completed by deriving and displaying the display result of the variable display device (for example, a plurality of reels) to be displayed, and a prize (for example, a cherry prize, a watermelon prize, a bell prize, a replay prize, or a BB) according to the display result. (A prize, an RB prize, etc.). For example, similarly to the pachinko gaming machine 1, the present invention can be applied to a gaming machine such as a slot machine that can perform volume adjustment and light amount adjustment. Even in these gaming machines, operation means for a game store (operation means for setting the first volume level or the like) may be provided on an effect control board or the like inside the housing, or may be fixed after power-on. In a period or the like, the operating means for the player that the player normally operates (such as an operating unit used for advancing the game and an operating means for setting the second volume level, etc.) functions as the operating means for the game store. You may. The setting of the volume on the player side (change of the second volume level, etc.) can be executed, for example, while the demo screen is being displayed (the period when the game is not executed). Further, when the replay is established and the game ends, a BET is automatically placed, so that the volume setting and the like may be limited. The adjustment of the volume and the like may be performed by using a jog dial, a processing adjustment button, a stick controller, a lever or a stop button of a slot machine, or the like. When adjusting the volume or the like, similarly to the above-described embodiment, the setting screen may be displayed from a menu screen or the like so that the setting can be adjusted, or the screen may be displayed in response to operation of a dedicated operation unit such as an adjustment button. The step display may be displayed.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Pachinko game machine 2 ... Game board 3 ... Game machine frame 4A, 4B ... Special design display device 5 ... Image display device 6A ... Ordinary winning ball device 6B ... Ordinary variable winning ball device 7 ... Special variable winning ball device 8L 8R ス ピ ー カ Speaker 9 効果 Game effect lamp 11 主 Main board 12 １３ Effect control board 13 音 声 Voice control board 14 ラ ン プ Lamp control board 15 Relay board 20 Ordinary symbol display 21 ゲ ー ト Gate switch 22A, 22B 口 Start-up switch 23… Count switch 100 ... game control microcomputers 101, 121 ... ROM
102, 122 ... RAM
103 ... CPU
104, 124 ... random number circuits 105, 125 ... I / O
120… effect control CPU
123 ... display control unit

Claims (1)

A gaming machine for performing a game,
First setting means for setting any one of a plurality of stages as a first sound volume stage based on a first operation performed on the game store side;
A second setting unit configured to set any one of the plurality of stages as a second sound volume stage based on a second operation performed on the player side;
Audio output control means for outputting an audio having a volume based on the first volume level set by the first setting means and the second volume level set by the second setting means from an audio output unit. ,
At a predetermined timing, a stage corresponding to the first volume level set by the first setting means can be set as the second volume level ,
Before Symbol gaming machine, after the start operation is performed at the start of the game, when the end operation is performed when terminating a game, further comprising a game history information output means for outputting the game history information,
The predetermined timing is a timing at which the start operation or the end operation is performed.
A gaming machine characterized by that:

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