JP6632963B2 - Gaming machine - Google Patents

Description

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

  For example, Patent Literature 1 discloses a gaming machine capable of performing variable display (variable display of symbols, etc.) based on first control means (sub-integrated board 1740) and information from the first control means. A gaming machine including a second control unit (a liquid crystal control board 1750) for displaying an image related to a game (such as a variable display image) on a display unit is disclosed.

JP 2014-138774 A

  In the gaming machine disclosed in Patent Literature 1, when an abnormality occurs in the second control unit when the variable display is not performed, there is a disadvantage that the state of the gaming machine cannot be recognized even if the second control unit can recover. The cause of the abnormality may be, for example, the influence of noise generated from another adjacent gaming machine or an island where the gaming machine is installed. The abnormality is, for example, that the second control means freezes or goes down.

  An object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine in which a second control unit that has recovered from an abnormality can recognize the state of the gaming machine.

(1) In order to achieve the above object, a gaming machine according to the present invention
The variable display of the special identification information (for example, the variable display of the special symbol) can be executed, and the variable display of the decoration identification information (for example, the variable display of the decorative pattern) and the decoration corresponding to the variable display of the special identification information. A gaming machine (for example, a pachinko gaming machine 1) capable of performing variable display of special identification information smaller than identification information (for example, variable display of small symbols ),
First control means (for example, first effect control board 12),
It is capable of communicating with the first control means (for example, receiving a normal operation signal) and displaying an image related to a game on a display means based on information (for example, a second production control command) from the first control means. 2 control means (for example, the VDP of the effect control unit 31),
The second control means can execute a variable display of decoration identification information and a variable display of special identification information in parallel on the display means as an image display of the game (for example, FIG. 31).
The first control means includes:
A reset signal (for example, a reset signal) for resetting the second control means is output to the second control means based on a communication state with the second control means (for example, when a normal operation signal cannot be received). Output a reset signal to the
When the second control means is reset by the reset signal and restored (for example, when reset) during a period in which the variable display of the special identification information is not performed (for example, during a demonstration period), the state of the gaming machine ( For example, first specifying information (for example, a background designation command) capable of specifying a background is output to the second control means (for example, steps S755A to S758 in FIG. 21),
A second specification capable of specifying that the special identification information is being variably displayed when the second control means is reset by the reset signal and restored (for example, when resetting) during the variable display of the special identification information. Information (for example, a small symbol change start designation command) is output to the second control means (for example, steps S552A to S554 in FIG. 25),
The second identification information includes information for executing variable display of special identification information (for example, a small symbol change start designation command).
It is characterized by the following.
The first control unit supplies the reset signal over a first period based on a communication state with the second control unit (for example, a short reset),
The communication that can be performed by the first control unit and the second control unit includes a specific communication after the reset signal is supplied over the first period and the second control unit is reset (for example, , Rising signal reception)
The period during which the specific communication cannot be performed because the second control unit becomes abnormal due to heat generation exceeds a specific period (for example, when a rising signal cannot be received for 10 seconds),
The first control unit is configured to supply the reset signal over a second period longer than the first period when the period during which the specific communication cannot be performed exceeds the specific period, thereby operating the second control unit. Is stopped for the second period (for example, long reset),
At least in the second period, a cooling unit (for example, a cooling fan 40) for cooling the second control unit is further provided.
You may do so.

According to such a configuration, the reset and restored second control means can recognize the state of the gaming machine. For example, if the second control means is frozen or down due to the effect of noise generated from another adjacent gaming machine or an island where the gaming machine is installed, the second control means can be restored, The second control means can recognize the state of the gaming machine.

(2) In the gaming machine of the above (1),
The first control means includes:
Determining means (for example, steps S741 to S743 in FIG. 18) for determining whether a predetermined signal (for example, a normal operation signal) has been output from the second control means;
Reset means (for example, step S744 in FIG. 18) for resetting (for example, a short reset) the second control means based on the determination result of the determination means;
Specific information output means (for example, steps S755A to S758 in FIG. 21) for outputting the specific information (for example, a background designation command) after resetting by the reset means.
You may do so.

  According to such a configuration, the second control means can be appropriately recovered from the abnormality, and the second control means recovered from the abnormality can recognize the state of the gaming machine.

(3) In the gaming machine of (1) or (2),
The identification information includes a command (for example, a background designation command) for designating at least a part of an image related to a game before the second control means becomes abnormal.
You may do so.

  According to such a configuration, the second control means recovered from the abnormality can recognize the state of the gaming machine.

(4) In the gaming machine according to any one of the above (1) to (3),
The specific information includes a command (for example, a demo display designation command) for designating a demo display on the display unit, and a command (for example, a background designation command) for designating at least a part of an image related to a game.
You may do so.

  According to such a configuration, the second control means recovered from the abnormality can recognize the state of the gaming machine.

(5) In the gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (4),
When the period during which predetermined communication with the second control unit cannot be performed exceeds a specific period (for example, when a rising signal cannot be received for 10 seconds), the first control unit transmits a specific signal to the second control unit. (For example, a reset signal) is output continuously over a predetermined period (for example, a long reset),
You may do so.

  According to such a configuration, the second control means can be suitably operated.

(6) A gaming machine according to another example includes:
A gaming machine (for example, a pachinko gaming machine 1) capable of performing variable display (for example, variable display of a special symbol),
First control means (for example, first effect control board 12),
Second control means (for example, VDP of the effect control unit 31) for displaying an image relating to the game on the display means based on the information (for example, the second effect control command) from the first control means,
The second control means displays an image related to a common game irrespective of the state of the gaming machine when recovering from an abnormality when the variable display is not being executed (for example, when starting up after resetting) (for example, FIG. 33),
It is characterized by.

  According to such a configuration, a suitable image can be displayed after recovery from the abnormality.

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. It is a block diagram for explaining commands and signals transmitted and received by the main board, the first effect control board, and the second effect control board. It is a figure showing an example of the main 1st production control command. It is a figure showing an example of the main 2nd production control command. It is a figure showing an example of various signals transmitted from the 2nd production control board to the 1st production control board. It is a figure showing an example of operation monitoring of a 2nd production control board by a 1st production control board (supply timing of a reset signal). It is a figure which shows the aspect of a long reset or a short reset. 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 flowchart which shows an example of a special symbol normal process. 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 which shows the example of determination of the fluctuation pattern at the time of a big hit. It is a figure which shows the example of determination of the fluctuation pattern at the time of a loss. It is a flow chart which shows an example of special design stop processing. It is a flow chart which shows an example of the 1st production control main processing. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a reset related process. It is explanatory drawing explaining an example of the content of a process performed in 1st effect control command analysis etc. processing (step S705). 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 waiting process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a variable display start setting process. It is a figure showing an example of deciding whether to change a background. It is a figure showing an example of determination of a background. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a process during variable display. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a hitting process. It is a flow chart which shows an example of the 2nd production control main processing. It is a figure showing the contents of processing performed at Step S78 of the 2nd effect control main processing. It is a figure showing an example of a display mode (demo display mode) of an effect screen during a demonstration period. It is a figure showing an example of a production screen during a demonstration period. It is a figure showing an example of an effect screen during variable display. It is a figure showing an example of the production screen in the big hit game state. It is a figure showing an example of a display mode (demo display mode) of an effect screen during a demonstration period. It is a figure showing the example of composition of the 2nd production control command. It is an example of intensity change of a cooling fan. It is a mode of the long reset concerning a modification. It is an example of an effect screen at the time of volume change.

(Basic configuration of pachinko gaming machine 1)
FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention, 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.

  A game area is formed on the game board 2, and a game ball as a game medium is fired from a predetermined hitting ball firing device and driven into the game area. The game area has a game area 2A on the left side and a game area 2B on the right side. The player can hit the game ball toward the left game area 2A (see path L1) or into the right game area 2B (see path L2).

  At a predetermined position of the game board 2 (in the example shown in FIG. 1, on the right side of the game area), a variable display of a first special symbol (also referred to as a first special figure) as a plurality of kinds of special identification information (first). A first special symbol display device 4A for playing a special figure game, and a variable display of a second special symbol (also called a second special figure) as a plurality of types of special identification information (also called a second special figure game). And a second special symbol display device 4B for performing the following. These are composed of 7-segment LEDs and the like, and the special symbol may be a number indicating “0” to “9” or a lighting pattern such as “−”. The special symbol may include a pattern in which all LEDs are turned off. In addition, the "first special figure" and the "second special figure" are collectively referred to simply as "special figure" or "special design", and the "first special figure game" and the "second special figure game" are collectively referred to. It is also simply called a “special map game”.

  The “variable display” of a special symbol means, for example, that a plurality of types of special symbols are changed (displayed so as to be changeable) by an update display or the like (the same applies to the variable display of other symbols described later). At the end of the variable display, a predetermined special symbol is stop-displayed (derived display (also referred to simply as derived)) as a display result (variable display result) (the same applies to other variable displays described later). In addition, scrolling, deformation, enlargement / reduction, and the like may be performed as a change in the symbol (particularly, a decorative symbol described later).

  An image display device 5 such as an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) is provided near the center of the game area on the game board 2. The image display device 5 displays various effect images.

  The image display device 5 performs variable display of a decorative symbol (a symbol indicating a number or the like) as a plurality of types of decorative identification information different from the special symbol in synchronization with the special symbol game. For example, in the "left", "middle", and "right" decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R on the screen of the image display device 5, variable display of decorative symbols (for example, scrolling or updating in the vertical direction) is performed. Done.

  In addition, in the image display device 5, a plurality of types of special identification information different from the special symbol and the decorative symbol in the specific display area 5 </ b> X on the screen of the image display device 5 in synchronization with the variable display of the special symbol game and the decorative symbol. Is also variably displayed as a small symbol (a symbol indicating a number or the like). Variable display of small symbols is performed in three display areas, similarly to variable display of decorative symbols.

  In the lower part of the screen of the image display device 5, a first reserved display image (here, a round image) 5HA and a second reserved display image (here, a circular image) 5HB are displayed. The first suspension display image 5HA shows the first special figure game whose execution is suspended. The second suspension display image 5HB shows the second special figure game whose execution is suspended. The number of reserved special figure games is also referred to as the number of special figure reserved storages. In particular, the reserved number of the first special figure game is referred to as a first special figure reserved storage number. The reserved number of the second special figure game is referred to as a second special figure reserved storage number. The number of the first special figure reserved storages and the number of the second special figure reserved storages are displayed by the respective display numbers of the first reserved display image 5HA and the second reserved display image 5HB.

  Further, a first reservation display 25A and a second reservation display 25B for displaying the number of special figure reservation storages in a identifiable manner are provided. Each of the first reservation display 25A and the second reservation display 25B includes a plurality of LEDs, and displays the first special figure reservation storage number and the second special figure reservation storage number according to the number of LEDs lit. I do.

  Below the image display device 5 (game area 2A), a normal winning ball device 6A is provided. The normal winning prize ball device 6A forms a first starting winning prize port that is kept in a constant open state where game balls can always enter by, for example, a predetermined ball receiving member. When a game ball enters the first start winning port, the first start port switch 22A (see FIG. 2) is turned on, whereby the entry of the game ball is detected. At this time, a predetermined number (for example, three) of prize balls can be paid out, and the execution of the first special figure game can be started or suspended.

  On the right side (game area 2B) of the image display device 5, a normal variable winning ball device 6B is provided. The ordinary variable winning prize ball device 6B is a motor-operated tulip-type combination having a pair of movable wing pieces that are 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 (see FIG. 2). An object (usually an electric accessory) and a plate located above the object are provided to form a second starting winning opening. The normal variable winning prize ball device 6B is configured such that, for example, when the movable wing is in the vertical position when the solenoid 81 is in the off state, the tip of the movable wing is close to the plate material, and the second starting winning opening is provided. The game ball enters a closed state where it does not enter (the second starting winning port is also called a closed state). On the other hand, when the solenoid 81 is on, the movable wing piece is in the tilting position when the solenoid 81 is in the on state, so that the ordinary variable winning prize ball device 6B enters an open state in which game balls can enter the second starting winning opening (second It is also said that the starting winning opening is open.) When a game ball enters the second start winning port, the second start port switch 22B (see FIG. 2) is turned on, whereby the entry of the game ball is detected. At this time, a predetermined number (for example, three) of prize balls can be paid out, and the execution of the second special figure game can be started or suspended.

  A special variable winning ball device 7 is provided below the normal variable winning ball device 6B (game area 2B). 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 (see FIG. 2) for a special winning opening door, and that is changed to an open state and a closed state by the special winning opening door. A special winning opening as an area is formed.

  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.

  When a game ball enters the special winning opening, the count switch 23 (see FIG. 2) is turned on, whereby the entry of the game ball is detected. At this time, a predetermined number (for example, 14) of game balls are paid out as prize balls. Thus, when the game ball enters the special winning opening, for example, more prize balls are paid out than when the game ball enters the first starting winning opening or the second starting winning opening.

  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 normal symbol display 20 includes a 7-segment LED or the like, and variably displays a normal symbol (also referred to as a “normal symbol”) as a plurality of types of ordinary identification information different from the special symbol. Such a variable display of a normal symbol is also called a normal symbol game.

  The general-purpose game is executed based on the fact that a game ball has passed through a pass gate 41 provided at a predetermined position of the game board 2 (on the right side of the image display device 5 and in the game area 2B). When the game ball has passed through the passage gate 41, the gate switch 21 of FIG. 2 is turned on, whereby the passage of the game ball is detected.

  Above the ordinary symbol display 20, there is provided an ordinary symbol holding display 25 </ b> C. The general-purpose reservation indicator 25C is configured to include, for example, four LEDs, and displays the number of stored general-purpose reservations, which is the number of general-purpose games for which execution is suspended, by the number of lit LEDs.

  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. 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.

  In this embodiment, a nail row PL for dividing the game area 2A and the game area 2B is also provided. The nail row PL is constituted by a row of obstacle nails provided on the game board 2 and blocks the path of a left-hit game ball, thereby preventing the ball from entering the second starting winning opening and the big winning opening. Further, the nail row PL blocks the path of the right-hit game ball and prevents the ball from entering the first starting winning opening. Therefore, a game ball hit toward the game area 2A, that is, a left-hit game ball can enter the first start winning opening, but does not enter the open second starting winning opening and the large winning opening. I can't enter. It should be noted that a game ball hit left cannot pass through the passage gate 41 (as is clear from the positional relationship). A game ball hit toward the game area 2B, that is, a right-hit game ball, can enter the open second start winning opening and the large winning opening, but cannot enter the first start winning opening. It should be noted that the game ball hit right can also pass through the passage gate 41.

  Speakers 8L and 8R for reproducing and outputting sounds such as sound effects are provided at upper left and right positions of the gaming machine frame 3, and a gaming effect lamp 9 for the gaming effect is provided around the gaming area. Is provided. The game effect lamp 9 includes an LED.

  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 a game area by a hit ball firing device is provided. I have.

  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.

(Substrate configuration of pachinko gaming machine 1)
In the pachinko gaming machine 1, for example, a main board 11, a first effect control board 12, an effect control board 12, a relay board 15, a second effect control board 30, and the like as shown in FIG. 2 are mounted. In addition, various boards such as a payout control board, an information terminal board, a launch control board, and a power supply board are arranged on the back surface of the game board or the like in the pachinko gaming machine 1.

  The main board 11 is a control board on the main side, and functions to control the progress of a game in the pachinko gaming machine 1 (execution of a special figure game, a general-purpose game, etc.) (first effect toward the first effect control board 12). A control command (including a function of transmitting a control command (see FIG. 4, which will be described in detail later)). The main board 11 includes a game control microcomputer 100, a switch circuit 110, a solenoid circuit 111, and the like.

  The game control microcomputer 100 is, for example, a one-chip microcomputer, and includes a ROM (Read Only Memory) 101, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 102, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 103, a random number circuit 104, / O (Input / Output port) 105.

  As an example, the function of the main board 11 (control of the progress of the game) is realized by the CPU 103 executing a program stored in the ROM 101. At this time, various data stored in the ROM 101 (variation patterns (FIG. 13 and the like, described in detail below), data indicating various tables, etc.) are used, and the RAM 102 is used as a main memory.

  The random number circuit 104 renewably counts numerical data indicating various random numbers (gaming random numbers) used when controlling the progress of the game. A part of the game random numbers is updated by the CPU 103 executing a predetermined computer program (for example, updated by a game random number update process described later).

  The I / O 105 includes, for example, an input port to which a detection signal to be described later supplied from the switch circuit 110 is input, and various signals (a first effect control command, a solenoid driving signal to be described later, various display devices, 4A, 4B, 20 or signals for driving the hold indicators 25A to 25C, etc.) to the outside of the game control microcomputer 100.

  The switch circuit 110 detects detection signals (game media passing or not) from various switches for detecting a game ball (gate switch 21, starting port switch (first starting port switch 22A and second starting port switch 22B), count switch 23). (Such as a detection signal indicating that the switch has been turned on when the vehicle enters) and is transmitted to the game control microcomputer 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 the solenoid 81 for a normal electric accessory or the solenoid 82 for a special winning opening door. Transmit.

  The first effect control command transmitted from the main board 11 to the first effect control board 12 is relayed by the relay board 15.

  The first effect control board 12 is a sub-side control board independent of the main board 11. The first effect control board 12 makes various decisions regarding the effect based on the first effect control command transmitted from the main board 11 to the first effect control board 12 via the relay board 15, and performs a second decision according to the determination result. The second effect control command (see FIG. 5, which will be described later in detail) is supplied to the second effect control board 30, and the second effect control board 30 executes the effect. Note that the first effect control board 12 also has a function of confirming whether the second effect control board 30 is operating, and resetting as necessary.

  On the first effect control board 12, an effect control CPU 120, a ROM 121, a RAM 122, and an I / O 125 are mounted. The effect control CPU 120, the ROM 121, the RAM 122, and the I / O 125 may be configured as a one-chip microcomputer.

  By way of example, the effect control CPU 120 executes the program stored in the ROM 121 to execute the functions of the first effect control board 12 (determination of various effects, transmission of the second effect control command, transmission of the second effect control board 30). (Operation confirmation, reset, etc.). At this time, various data stored in the ROM 121 (for example, table data for determining the execution content of the effect, data of the second effect control command, and the like) are used, and the RAM 122 is used as a main memory.

  The random number circuit 124 counts, in an updatable manner, numerical data indicating various random numbers used for deciding the contents of the effect and the like. Such random numbers are also called effect random numbers. A part of the effect random number is updated by the effect control CPU 120 executing a predetermined computer program (for example, updated by an effect random number update process described later).

  The I / O 125 includes, for example, an input port to which various signals (a first effect control command, various signals from the second effect control board 30 (see FIG. 6, which will be described in detail later), etc.) are input, and an effect control CPU 120. An output port for outputting various signals (a second effect control command, a cooling fan drive signal described later, a reset signal (see FIG. 8, described later in detail), etc.) to the outside of the first effect control board 12 by processing. Be composed.

  The second effect control board 30 executes various effects based on the second effect control command from the first effect control board 12. At this time, the second effect control board 30 performs various effects by controlling various effect devices such as the image display device 5, the speakers 8L and 8R, and the game effect lamp 9.

  An effect control unit 31 is mounted on the second effect control board 30. The effect control unit 31 includes a VDP (Video Display Processor), a CGROM (Character Generator ROM), and the like. The VDP includes an SDRAM (Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory) serving as a main memory. In this embodiment, the functions of the second effect control board 30 (execution of effects, etc.) are realized by the VDP performing various processes.

  The VDP of the effect control unit 31 generates a video signal of an effect image to be displayed on the image display device 5 based on the image data stored in the CGROM, outputs the video signal to the image display device 5, and outputs the effect image to the image display device 5. Is displayed.

  The CGROM stores, in addition to image data for generating a video signal of the effect image, audio data for outputting audio from the speakers 8L and 8R, lighting data for lighting the game effect lamp 9, and the like. . Note that data other than image data (such as audio data and lighting data) may be stored in a storage unit other than the CGROM (provided as a part of the effect control unit 31).

  At least a part of the effect control unit 31 may be configured as a one-chip processor. For example, the effect control unit 31 may be formed by a one-chip VDP including a CGROM or the like. The main memory of the VDP may be externally connected to the VDP as a part of the effect control unit 31.

  The image display device 5 displays an image (effect image) represented by the video signal based on the video signal supplied from the effect control unit 123 to the image display device 5.

  The pachinko gaming machine 1 is further provided with a cooling fan 40. The cooling FAN 40 blows air to a portion of the second effect control board 30 that generates heat, such as the effect control unit 31 (particularly, VDP). The cooling FAN 40 operates when a cooling fan drive signal output from the first effect control board 12 (I / O 125) is supplied as necessary, and cools the target portion by blowing air.

(E.g. game progress)
A player rotates the hitting operation handle of the pachinko gaming machine 1 so that a game medium (game ball) is shot toward the game area. By adjusting the operation amount (rotation amount) of the hit ball operation handle, the player performs a left hit (operation to hit a game ball into the game area 2A) or a right hit (operation to hit a game ball into the game area 2B).

  When the left-hitting game ball enters the first starting winning opening formed in the normal winning ball device 6A, the first special figure game is started. When the right-hit game ball enters the second start winning opening (open state) formed in the normally variable winning prize ball device 6B, the second special figure game is started. Note that when the special figure game cannot be started (when the start condition is not satisfied), such as when another special figure game is already being executed or when a big hit game state described later is controlled, four each are displayed. The execution of the special map game is suspended with the upper limit set. The suspended special-figure game is executed when a start condition for starting the special-figure game is satisfied (e.g., no other special-figure game is currently being executed and the big hit game is not being performed). When the game ball enters the first start winning opening while the first special figure reserved storage number has reached the upper limit, the entry is invalidated without increasing the first special figure reserved storage number ( There may be prize balls). When the game ball enters the second starting winning opening while the second special figure reserved storage number has reached the upper limit, the entry is invalidated without increasing the second special figure reserved storage number ( There may be prize balls). The entry (winning) of the game ball, which increases the first special figure reserved storage number, into the first starting winning opening is also referred to as first starting winning. The entry (winning) of the game ball, which increases the number of second special figure reservation storages, into the second starting winning opening is also referred to as a second starting winning. These winnings are collectively referred to simply as starting winnings.

  The special symbol (variable display result) stopped and displayed in the special figure game includes a big hit symbol (for example, a special figure such as “5” and “7”) and a lost symbol (for example, a special figure such as “-”). There is. When the big hit symbol is stopped (derived), the variable display result is "big hit". The time when the losing symbol is stopped (derived) is when the variable display result is “losing”.

  When the variable display result of the first special figure game or the second special figure game is “big hit” (specific display result), the game is controlled to the big hit gaming state as an advantageous state that is advantageous to the player. When the variable display result is “losing”, the state is not controlled to the big hit gaming state.

  In the big hit gaming state, the special winning opening formed by the special variable winning ball device 7 is open. The open state is such that a predetermined period (for example, 29 seconds) elapses and a predetermined number (for example, 9) of game balls that have entered the special winning opening (the number of game balls for which winning is detected by the count switch 23). , Or until one of the earlier timings is reached. Such an open state is called a round game (also simply referred to as “round”). In the big hit game state, the round game is repeatedly executed until a predetermined upper limit number (for example, “15 times”) is reached (the large winning opening is closed in a period other than the round game). Thereby, in the big hit gaming state, many prize balls are paid out.

  In the “big hit”, big hit types of “non-probable change” and “probable change” are set. When the jackpot type is "non-probable change", a big hit symbol of "5" is derived, and when it is "probable change", a big hit symbol of "7" is derived. In this embodiment, the mode of the big hit game state (the number of round games, the predetermined period, and the like) does not change according to the big hit type, but the mode may be changed according to the big hit type.

  Note that the “big hits” when the jackpot types are “non-probable change” and “probable change” may be referred to as “non-probable change big hit” and “probable change big hit”, respectively. In addition, the jackpot game state based on “non-probable variable jackpot” and “probable variable jackpot” may be referred to as “non-probable variable jackpot game state” and “probable variable jackpot game state”, respectively.

  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 continues until a predetermined probable change end condition such as the start of the next big hit game state is satisfied.

  In addition, after the big hitting game state ends, the average variable display time (variable display period) may be controlled to a time reduction state in which the average variable display time is shorter than the normal state. The time-saving state is that either one of the predetermined number of times (100 times in this embodiment) of the special figure game and the start of the next big hit game state is one of the time-saving end conditions. Continue until satisfied. Note that the remaining number of times the special figure game is executed until the time saving end condition is satisfied may be referred to as the remaining number of time saving games.

  When the right-hit game ball passes through the passage gate 41, a general-purpose game (variable display of a normal symbol) is started. In addition, when another general-purpose game cannot be started (when the start condition is not satisfied), for example, during the opening control described below, the general-purpose game is limited to four or more. Execution is suspended. The suspended general-purpose game is executed when a start condition for starting the general-purpose game is satisfied (for example, no other general-purpose game is executed and the release control is not performed). When the game ball passes through the passage gate 41 while the number of stored general-purpose drawings has reached the upper limit, the number of stored general-purpose drawings is invalidated without increasing the number of stored general-purpose drawings.

  The variable display results that are stopped and displayed in the general-purpose game include a symbol per general-purpose symbol (for example, a general-purpose symbol such as “7”) and a general-purpose lost symbol (for example, a general-purpose symbol such as “-”). . When the symbol per symbol is stopped (derived), the variable display result is "per symbol". The time when the universal figure lost symbol is stopped (derived) is when the variable display result is “universal figure lost”.

  At the time of "per-drawing", the opening control is performed in which the movable wing piece of the normally variable winning prize ball device 6B is tilted for a predetermined period (the second winning opening is changed to the open state).

  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. The game state after the probable change jackpot game state ends is a time saving state and a probable change state.

  In the time reduction state, the normally variable winning prize ball device 6B is opened and closed 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. To change. For example, a control for shortening the fluctuation time of a normal symbol (a period of variable display of a general figure, also referred to as a general figure fluctuation time) in a general figure game, or a variable display in each general figure game. The normal variable winning prize ball device 6B may be changed between the open state and the closed state in an advantageous change manner by a control or the like that improves the probability that the result is “per-figure” as compared with the normal state. Such control is referred to as high opening control (also referred to as “time saving control” or “high base control”). By controlling to such a time saving state, the time required for the next variable display result to become a "big hit" is reduced, and the time saving state is a state more advantageous to the player than the normal state, like the probable change state. Become.

  Note that the normal state is a game state other than an advantageous state such as a big hit game state, a time saving state, a probable change state, or any other state that is advantageous to the player. The pachinko gaming machine 1, such as the probability of becoming a "hit" and the probability that the variable display result in the special figure game becomes "big hit", is set in the initial setting state of the pachinko gaming machine 1 (for example, when the system is reset, This is a state in which the same control is performed as when the predetermined return processing is not executed after the insertion.

  The time reduction state is also referred to as “high base”, and the game state that is not the time reduction state is also referred to as “low base” or “non-time reduction state”. The probable change state is also referred to as “high-probability”, and the game state that is not the probable change state is also referred to as “low-probability” or “non-probability”.

  In this embodiment, in the non-time saving state, the variable display result of the general-purpose game is substantially “loss of general-purpose figure”. On the other hand, in the time-saving state, the variable display result of the general-purpose game is substantially “per-universal-drawing”. In other words, the second start winning opening is less likely to be opened in the non-time saving state, but is more likely to be opened in the time saving state. In addition, during the big hit gaming state, the special winning opening is opened, but otherwise it is not opened. For this reason, in this embodiment, it is difficult to make the game ball enter the second start winning opening or the big winning opening even if the player hits right when not in the big hit gaming state and in the non-time saving state, or Since it is impossible, the player makes a left-handed attempt to make the game ball enter the first start winning opening that is always open. On the other hand, in the time-saving state or the jackpot game state, it can be expected that the game ball enters the second starting winning opening or the big winning opening, so that the player makes a right-hand.

(Such as productions that are performed as the game progresses)
The "left", "middle", and "right" decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R provided on the image display device 5 correspond to the start of the first special figure game or the second special figure game. Then, the variable display of the decorative symbol (this is also a kind of effect) is started. When the variable display result (also called a fixed special symbol) is stopped and displayed in the first special figure game or the second special figure game, the fixed decorative symbol (3) which is the display result of the decorative symbol variable display (variable display result) is displayed. Is also stopped (derived).

  During the period from the start of the variable display of the decorative symbol to the end thereof, the variable display mode of the decorative symbol may be in a predetermined reach mode (reach is established), and a reach effect is executed. As the reach effect, a normal reach, a super reach A, and a super reach B having different effect modes are prepared. In this embodiment, the jackpot expectation degree is higher in the order of super reach B> super reach A> normal reach.

  The big hit expectation degree is, for example, a rate at which the variable display result of the special figure game is “big hit” (a rate at which the display result of the variable display of the decorative symbol is “big hit”).

  When the variable display result of the special figure game is “big hit”, a fixed decoration pattern which is a predetermined big hit combination is derived on the screen of the image display device 5 as the variable display result of the decoration symbol. Specifically, the same decorative symbol (in this case, any one of “2” to “7”) is displayed on a predetermined activated line in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R. The stop decorations are displayed together with?), So that a definitive decorative symbol to be a big hit combination is derived. In this embodiment, the decorative symbols to be stopped and displayed differ according to the type of big hit. To be more specific, the odd decorative patterns “3”, “5”, “7” when “probable” and the even decorative patterns “4”, “6”, “8” when “non-probable” One of them is displayed together.

  When the variable display result of the special figure game is “losing”, the combination of non-reach-losing (combination when reach is not established) or the combination of reach-losing (combination when reach is established) is obtained as the variable display result of the decorative symbol. ) Is derived.

  In addition, during the variable display of the decorative symbol, the variable display of the small symbol (for example, the symbol of “1” to “9” as in the decorative symbol) is performed in the specific display area 5X. The variable display of the small symbol is performed in three display areas, similarly to the variable display of the decorative symbol, but the variable display of the small symbol indicates that the special figure game is being executed (the decorative symbol is changing). (Therefore, the small symbols that fluctuate in the three display areas are stopped at the same time when the variable display result is derived, regardless of the execution of the effect, etc.). That is, the small symbols variably displayed do not stop one by one as in the variable display of the decorative symbols, and do not reach the reach state. When the variable display result of the special figure game is "big hit", the same small symbol is stopped (derived) at the same time as the variable display result, and when the variable display result of the special figure game is "losing", a different small display The symbol is stopped. The three display areas are almost the same as the size of the small design, and the variable display of the small design is performed in a small area so as not to be disturbed by other effects or to not disturb other effects. Is done. Therefore, the variable display of the small symbol is performed by, for example, a scroll display performed smaller than that of the decorative symbol or an update display in which the small symbol is sequentially updated on the spot.

  The combination of small symbols (combination of fixed small symbols) as a variable display result derived in the variable display of small symbols is “2 2 2” at the time of a big hit and “1 5 3” at the time of a loss. In this embodiment, the odd number (“probable change”) has a higher advantage than the even number (“non-probable”), and “2 2 2” is used in this embodiment. This is to prevent an odd number from appearing at times and the player from erroneously recognizing the original “non-probable variable hit” as the “probable variable hit”.

  In addition, during the variable display of the decorative symbol, various effects such as a notice effect for notifying the big hit expectation are performed in addition to the reach effect. During the big hit game state, an effect corresponding to the big hit game state is performed. During the big hit game state or the time reduction state, an effect of right-handed notification for notifying that right-handed should be performed is executed.

(Description of the operation of the first effect control board 12 and the second effect control board 30)
As shown in FIG. 3, the main board 11 transmits a first effect control command to the first effect control board 12 in accordance with the progress of the game. The first effect control command is, for example, a command as shown in FIG. 4 (to be described in detail later), and is a command for designating the progress of a game.

  Here, the first effect control command will be described. FIG. 4 shows main first effect control commands. Note that the following “(H)” indicates a hexadecimal number. Note that the first effect control command is relayed by the relay board 15. Each of the first effect control commands has, for example, a 2-byte configuration. The first byte (upper bit) indicates MODE (command type (classification)), and the second byte (lower bit) is EXT (command details). Content).

  The command 8000 (H) is a first variation start designation command for designating (notifying) the start of the first special figure game, that is, the start of variable display (variation) of the first special figure. The command 8001 (H) is a second variation start designation command for designating (notifying) the start of the second special figure game, that is, the start of variable display (variation) of the second special figure. The first change start designation command and the second change start designation command may be collectively referred to as a change start designation command.

  The command 81XX (H) is a variation pattern designation command for designating (notifying) a variation pattern of variable display (specifying an execution time of a special figure game (variable time of special figure) or a pattern of variable display of a decorative design). is there. In “XX”, a numerical value corresponding to each fluctuation pattern (see FIG. 13; details will be described later) is set (for example, “00” for the fluctuation pattern PA1-1).

  Command 8CXX (H) is a display result designation command for designating (notifying) a variable display result. In “XX”, a numerical value corresponding to the display result is set (for example, “00” for “losing”, “01” for “probable change”).

  The command 8F00 (H) is a symbol confirmation designation command for designating (notifying) the end of the special figure game (that is, deriving and displaying the variable display result).

  The command 95XX (H) is a game state designation command for designating the current game state. In "XX", a numerical value corresponding to the gaming state is set (for example, "00" in the normal state, "01" in the high-accuracy high base state, and the like).

  The command A000 (H) is a hit start designation command for designating (notifying) the start of the big hit game state (also the start of the fanfare). The fanfare is an effect executed at the start of the big hit gaming state, and is an effect for notifying that the big hit gaming state has been achieved.

  The command A300 (H) is a hit end designation command for designating (notifying) the end of the big hit game state (also the start of ending). The ending is an effect executed at the end of the big hit gaming state, such as an effect of notifying the end of the big hit gaming state.

  The command C0XX (H) is a first special figure reserved storage number addition designation command for designating (notifying) that the first start winning combination is generated and the first special figure reserved storage number is increased by one. The command C1XX (H) is a second special figure reserved storage number addition designation command for designating (notifying) that the second start winning is generated and the second special figure reserved storage number is increased by one. "XX" is set to a numerical value indicating the number of special figure pending storages after the increase. These commands may be collectively referred to as a special figure reserved storage number addition designation command.

  The command C2XX (H) is a subtraction of the number of first special figure reserved storages for designating (notifying) that the first special figure reserved storage number is reduced by one by executing the first special figure game (reservation is exhausted). This is a specified command. The command C3XX (H) is used to designate (notify) that the number of second special figure reserved storage is reduced by one by executing the second special figure game (reservation is exhausted) and to subtract the second special figure reserved storage number. This is a specified command. In “XX”, a numerical value indicating the reduced number of special figure reserved storage is set. These commands may be collectively referred to as a special figure reserved storage number subtraction designation command.

  Command C500 (H) is a right-handing start designation command for designating that the player starts right-handing. The command C501 (H) is a right-handling end designation command for designating the right-handing to be ended by the player.

  The command C600 (H) is a customer waiting demonstration designation command for designating the display of the demonstration screen (customer waiting demonstration screen).

  When the first effect control board 12 receives the first effect control command, the first effect control board 12 makes various decisions regarding the effect based on the received first effect control command, and transmits the second effect control command according to the determination result to the second effect control command. It is transmitted to the effect control board 30 (see FIG. 3). The second effect control board 30 executes the effect with the content specified by the second effect control command.

  FIG. 5 shows main second effect control commands. Note that the following “(H)” indicates a hexadecimal number. Each of the second effect control commands has, for example, a 2-byte configuration. The first byte (upper bits) indicates MODE (command type (classification)), and the second byte (lower bits) is EXT (command details). Content).

  The command D0XX (H) is a background designation command for designating the background of the effect image displayed on the image display device 5, and “XX” is set to a numerical value corresponding to the background. For example, “00” is set if the background is a background A described later (FIG. 23), and “01” is set if the background B is set.

  The command D1XX (H) is a variable display mode designating command for designating the variable display mode of the decorative symbol. The mode of the variable display is specified by the variation pattern. In “XX”, a numerical value according to the fluctuation pattern is set.

  Commands D2XX (H) to D3XX (H) are final stop symbol designating commands for specifying a variable display result (final stop symbol, that is, a combination of fixed decorative symbols) derived by variable display of decorative symbols. "XX" is set to a numerical value corresponding to the variable display result (for example, if the final stop symbol is "777", the command is "D200"; if the final stop symbol is "173", the command is "D351"). You.

  The command D5XX (H) is a variable display effect designation command for designating the start of the effect (reach effect, notice effect, etc.) executed during the variable display of the decorative symbol. In “XX”, a numerical value corresponding to the effect to be specified is set (for example, “00” to specify the start of the normal reach at the time of the loss, “01” to specify the start of the normal reach at the time of the big hit) "Such).

  The command D600 (H) is a small symbol variation start designation command for designating the start of variable display (variation) of small symbols.

  The command D7XX (H) is a symbol stop designation command for designating termination of the variable display of the decorative symbol or small symbol and deriving the variable display result (fixed decorative symbol or fixed symbol). In “XX”, a numerical value indicating a variable display result (here, whether or not a big hit) is set (“00” for “losing”, “01” for “big hit”, etc.).

  The command E100 (H) is a big hit middle production start command for designating the start of a big hit middle production (including fanfare but not ending) executed during the big hit game state.

  The command E200 (H) is an ending start designation command for designating the start of execution of an ending effect.

  The command E600 (H) is a right-handed notification start designation command for specifying the start of right-handed notification for making the player right-handed. The command E601 (H) is a right-handed notification end designation command for specifying the end of right-handed notification.

  The command E800 (H) is a demonstration display designation command for designating the start of the display of the demonstration screen (customer waiting demonstration screen).

  The command F1XX (H) is a first reserved display image increase designation command for designating that the first reserved display image 5HA is increased by one. The command F2XX (H) is a second reserved display image increase designation command for designating to increase the second reserved display image 5HB by one. In “XX”, a numerical value indicating the number of the suspended display images after the increase is set. The first hold display image increase designation command and the second hold display image increase designation command are collectively referred to as a hold display image increase designation command.

  The command F3XX (H) is a first reserved display image decrease designation command for designating that the first reserved display image 5HA is reduced by one. The command F4XX (H) is a second reserved display image decrease designation command for designating that the second reserved display image 5HB is reduced by one. In “XX”, a numerical value indicating the number of suspended display images after the decrease is set. The first hold display image decrease designation command and the second hold display image decrease designation command are collectively referred to as a hold display image decrease designation command.

  Further, the first effect control board 12 and the second effect control board 30 also exchange signals with each other (see FIG. 3). Specifically, the second effect control board 30 transmits a normal operation signal and a rising signal shown in FIG. 6, and the first effect control board 12 transmits a reset signal.

  The normal operation signal is a signal that is periodically (here, every one second) transmitted from the VDP of the effect control unit 31 of the second effect control board 30 to the first effect control board 12. If the normal operation signal is transmitted periodically, it means that the VDP of the effect control unit 31 is operating normally. When the operation of the VDP stops due to an abnormality (for example, freeze or down due to noise or the like), the normal operation signal is not transmitted. For example, VDP freezes or goes down due to the noise generated from another pachinko gaming machine adjacent to the pachinko gaming machine 1 or an island where the pachinko gaming machine 1 is installed. In this embodiment, the VDP may be particularly vulnerable to noise or the like, and the VDP is more likely to cause an abnormality and stop operation than the first effect control board 12 or the like.

  The rising signal is generated when the VDP of the effect control unit 31 of the second effect control board 30 is activated (including activation by turning on the power and restarting by supplying a reset signal), and a normal operation can be performed ( This signal is transmitted from the VDP to the first effect control board 12 when initial settings and the like are completed in the VDP of the effect control unit 31 and the effect as a normal operation can be executed. The fact that the VDP can perform the normal operation (execution of an effect or the like) is called that the second effect control board 30 or the VDP has started (started).

  Each of the normal operation signal and the rising signal is transmitted as an information signal indicating 4 bytes of data similarly to the second effect control command.

  Note that the fact that the CPU 103 can perform a normal operation (control of the progress of the game) after the initial setting on the main board 11 means that the main board 11 has started up. In the first effect control board 12, the fact that the effect control CPU 120 has been able to perform a normal operation (including effect execution control (including determination of whether or not to execute an effect) and the like) after the initial setting has been confirmed. There are times when 12 has started up.

  The reset signal (see FIG. 3) transmitted from the first effect control board 12 is supplied to the VDP of the effect control unit 31. The first effect control board 12 monitors the operation of the VDP of the effect control unit 31 (in this case, by monitoring the reception of a rising signal or a normal operation signal). (See FIGS. 7 and 8).

  The reset signal is input to a reset terminal included in the VDP of the effect control unit 31. For example, the predetermined terminal of the effect control CPU 120 and the reset terminal are electrically connected via the I / O 125 and the I / O of the effect control unit 31 or directly, and the effect control CPU 120 resets the reset. A reset signal is supplied by controlling the voltage (potential) of the terminal. In this embodiment, the voltage level of the reset terminal is normally kept at High. The reset signal is a Low signal for setting the voltage level of the reset terminal to Low (that is, in this case, the reset is active low).

  The reset signal is for forcibly resetting the VDP of the effect control unit 31 with hardware. By the supply of the reset signal (when the voltage level of the reset terminal becomes Low or when the Low level is maintained for a predetermined period or more), the VDP of the effect control unit 31 is initialized (temporarily stored data is erased). VDP starts (restarts) (starts operation) after the end of the supply of the reset signal (after the rising of the voltage level of the reset terminal to return to High). With such a reset signal, the VDP is reset, and can recover from a down or freeze (restart, etc.).

  Here, the supply timing of the reset signal and the like will be described with reference to FIGS. When the power of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is turned on, the first effect control board 12 and the second effect control board 30 (VDP of the effect control unit 31) are started (started). The rise of the VDP of the effect control unit 31 is slow, and the VDP rises about seven seconds later than the first effect control board 12 (the effect control CPU 120). After the rise, the first effect control board 12 monitors the reception of the rise signal (step S11).

  The first effect control board 12 receives a rising signal from the VDP for 10 seconds (a rising waiting time described later) after the rising (when the VDP rises and a rising signal can be output). Monitors the reception of the normal operation signal assuming that the VDP has started up normally (step S12). Note that the 10 seconds is set with an allowance for the 7 seconds. The ten seconds may be measured by a timer or the like provided in the RAM 122.

  When the first effect control board 12 receives the normal operation signal from the VDP periodically after the start of step S12, it determines that there is no abnormality and continues the reception monitoring of step S12. On the other hand, when the first effect control board 12 cannot receive the normal operation signal for 5 seconds (the 5 seconds are set with an allowance for a normal transmission interval of 1 second for the normal operation signal). Assuming that an abnormality has occurred, a short reset for transmitting a reset signal to the VDP of the effect control unit 31 once is performed (step S13). The five seconds may be measured by a timer or the like provided in the RAM 122.

  In the short reset, as shown in FIG. 8, a reset signal having a time width of 1 ms is transmitted once. The 1 ms reset signal may be realized by an appropriate method. For example, it may be generated based on a clock signal or the like supplied from a predetermined clock circuit. For example, a 1 ms reset signal is supplied by controlling the reset terminal to be at a low level from a certain rising timing to the next rising timing in a clock signal whose rising timing reaches a high level every 1 ms. The VDP of the effect control unit 31 starts and starts (restarts) the operation after the end of the supply of the reset signal (after the rising of the voltage level of the reset terminal to return to High). Therefore, the VDP is kept in the reset state (also not operating) for 1 ms while the reset signal is supplied. After the short reset (reset release), the second effect control board 30 (the VDP of the effect control unit 31) is restarted (restarted). Therefore, the first effect control board 12 performs a step to monitor the reception of the rising signal. The processing of S11 is executed. The above 1 ms is set as a time sufficient for resetting the VDP of the effect control unit 31.

  If the first effect control board 12 does not receive the rising signal within 10 seconds after the rising in step S11 (when the VDP cannot start), the second effect control board 30 is abnormal. Is performed, a long reset for transmitting the reset signal to the VDP of the effect control unit 31 60,000 times is performed (step S14). The number of transmissions of the reset signal is counted by, for example, a counter provided in the RAM 122.

  In the long reset, a reset signal having a time width of 1 ms is continuously transmitted 60,000 times at intervals of 1 ms (fall of the reset signal is intervals of 1 ms) (see FIG. 8). Therefore, as a result, the reset terminal is kept Low for 60000 ms (60 seconds). As described above, the VDP of the effect control unit 31 starts operating (restart) after the end of the supply of the reset signal (after the reset state is released and after the rising of the voltage level of the reset terminal to High). ), The VDP does not operate for the above 60 seconds (the reset state is maintained for 60 seconds). After the long reset (reset release), the VDP starts again (restarts), so that the first effect control board 12 executes the process of step S11 to monitor the reception of the rising signal.

  The long reset is performed, for example, when the rise of the VDP of the effect control unit 31 is delayed in the first step S11 after the power is turned on, or when the VDP of the effect control unit 31 cannot be operated after the short reset (step S11). Be executed. In such a case (particularly, after a short reset), it is assumed that the VDP cannot perform processing to be executed due to thermal runaway due to an increase in processing load. Therefore, a cooling period of the VDP is provided by a long reset, that is, by maintaining the reset state for 60 seconds and not operating the VDP until the reset is released. Thus, it can be expected that the rising of the VDP will be performed normally. Further, the cooling fan 40 is driven during the long reset (while the reset state is maintained), and the cooling of the VDP is accelerated by blowing air. The above 60 seconds is set as a time sufficient to return the VDP to a normal operation.

  Normally, when the VDP of the effect control unit 31 is reset, the effect that has been executed until then is stopped at the timing of the reset. Then, the effect control unit 31 cannot restart the stopped effect. This is because, by resetting the VDP, the storage contents of the main memory (SDRAM) incorporated in the VDP (particularly, data that can specify how far the effect has been executed) are erased (data for effecting the effect is lost). ). Even when the main memory is externally attached, for example, when the VDP is reset, the power supply to the main memory is stopped, or an initial setting process (S71) described later is executed. Since the content stored in the main memory is erased at the time of reset, the effect control unit 31 cannot resume the effect stopped as described above. The effect control unit 31 can start the effect based on the second effect control command transmitted after the reset, but executes the effect during the period from the reset until the second effect control command is transmitted. Can not. Therefore, during this period, a situation in which no image is displayed on the image display device 5 may occur. In this embodiment, in order to reduce such inconvenience, an appropriate second effect control command according to the reset situation is supplied to the second effect control board 30, so that an image relating to the game after the reset (original effect Although not an image, an image that can inform the player of the game situation) can be suitably displayed.

  For example, when the first effect control board 12 resets during the demonstration period (see FIG. 29), after resetting, the first effect control board 12 transmits the demonstration display designation command to the second effect control board 30 together with the background designation command. Thus, after the reset, the second effect control board 30 can start displaying at least the background on the image display device 5 based on the command (FIG. 30, etc.).

  For example, the first effect control board 12 transmits a small symbol change start designation command to the second effect control board 30 when the reset is performed during the variable display of the decorative symbol. Thus, after resetting, the second effect control board 30 can restart and execute the variable display of the small symbol based on the command again (other effects need not be executed) (FIG. 31 and the like). The variable display of the small symbol allows the player to recognize that the player is changing.

  For example, when the first effect control board 12 resets during the big hit game state, the first effect control board 12 transmits a right strike notification start designation command to the second effect control board 30. Thus, after resetting, the second effect control board 30 can start and execute the effect of the right strike notification based on the command (other effects need not be executed) (FIG. 32, etc.). As a result, there is no disadvantage such as not being able to hit a game ball in the state of the big hit game.

(Major operations of pachinko machines)
Hereinafter, main operations of the pachinko gaming machine 1 will be described with reference to flowcharts and the like, but in each operation (each process), a process not described below may be performed.

(Main operation of the main board 11)
When the power of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is turned on, the CPU 103 of the main board 11 performs a predetermined process such as an initial setting, and then executes a game control timer interrupt process (thus controlling the progress of the game). Then, the main substrate 11 is started up). The game control timer interrupt process is executed each time a timer interrupt is generated by an interrupt request signal from a CTC (counter / timer circuit) supplied every predetermined period (for example, 2 milliseconds). In the game control timer interrupt process, the CPU 103 executes a switch process, a game random number update process, a special symbol process, a normal symbol process process, a command control process, and the like, and the game control timer interrupt process is repeatedly executed for each timer interrupt. By doing so, game control and the like are realized.

  In the switch processing, each switch is determined by determining whether a detection signal is input from various switches such as the gate switch 21, the first start port switch 22A, the second start port switch 22B, and the count switch 23 via the switch circuit 110. It is determined for each switch whether or not the game ball has been turned on (that is, whether or not a game ball has entered or passed). The result of this determination is used in special symbol process processing and ordinary symbol process processing.

  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.

  The special symbol process process is a process of realizing the suspension or execution of a special figure game, a jackpot game state, or the like based on the determination result in the switch process (the first special symbol display device 4A, the second special symbol display device 4B, The first hold display 25A, the second hold display 25B, and the control of the solenoid 82 for the special winning opening door are included) (details will be described later). In the special symbol process processing, the transmission setting of the first effect control command is performed according to the progress of the game.

  The normal symbol process process realizes, for example, the holding or execution of the general-purpose game and the open state of the normal variable winning ball device 6B (second starting winning opening) at the time of the general symbol based on the determination result in the switch process. (Including control of the ordinary symbol display 20, the ordinary figure holding display 25C, and the solenoid 81 for the ordinary electric accessory).

  The command control process is a process of actually transmitting the first effect control command transmitted and set by the special symbol process process from the main board 11 to the first effect control board 12.

(Special design process)
FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating 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). After executing the start winning determination process, the CPU 103 selects and executes one of the processes of steps S110 to S117 according to the value of the special figure process flag provided in the RAM 102.

  FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the start winning determination process (step S101).

  When the start winning determination process is started, the CPU 103 first determines whether or not the first startup port switch 22A is ON (refer to the determination result of the above-described switch process. Hereinafter, ON determination of various switches). The same applies to (2) (Step S201). If the first starting port switch 22A is ON (step S201; Yes), it is determined whether the first special figure reserved storage number has reached a predetermined upper limit (for example, “4”) (step S202). . The CPU 103 uses the first reserved storage number count value, which is a storage value of a first reserved storage number counter (a counter for counting the first special figure reserved storage number) provided in the RAM 102, for example, to store the first special reserved storage number. (Hereinafter, the same applies to the first special figure reserved storage number). If the first special figure reserved storage number is not the upper limit value in step S202 (step S202; No), a start port buffer value which is a stored value of the start port buffer provided in the RAM 102 is determined as occurrence of the first start winning. , "1" (step S203).

  When the first starting 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 determined whether the second starting port switch 22B is on (step S204). At this time, if the second starting port switch 22B is on (step S204; Yes), it is determined whether or not the second special figure hold storage number has reached a predetermined upper limit (for example, “4”) (step S204). Step S205). The CPU 103 uses the second reserved figure count storage value, which is a stored value of the second reserved figure storage counter (a counter for counting the second special figure reserved storage number) provided in the RAM 102, for example. (Hereinafter, the same applies to the second special figure reserved storage number). If the second special figure reserved storage number is not the upper limit value in step S205 (step S205; No), the start port buffer value is set to “2” as the occurrence of the second start winning (step S206).

  After executing one of the processes of steps S203 and S206, the count value of the number of suspended storages 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 reserved storage number count value is added by one, while when the starting port buffer value is "2", the second reserved storage number count value is added by one. At this time, the total reserved storage count value, which is the storage value of the total reserved storage number counter provided in 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 process of step S209, from among the numerical data updated by the random number circuit 104 and the game random number updating process, a random number value MR1 (“1 ”To“ 65535 ”, a random number value MR2 for determining a jackpot type (any value of“ 1 ”to“ 100 ”), and a random value MR3 for determining a variation pattern (“ 1 ”to“ 100 ”). ) Is extracted. Numerical data indicating each of the random numbers extracted in this manner is stored as pending data by being set at the head of an empty entry in the special map pending storage unit (provided in the RAM 102) corresponding to the starting port buffer value ( Step S210).

  In the process of step S210, for example, when the starting port buffer value is “1”, the holding data is set in the first special figure holding storage unit, while when the starting port buffer value is “2”, the holding data is set. The data is set in the second special figure holding storage unit. In this way, the hold data indicating the held special figure game is stored in the special figure storage unit. Each special figure reservation storage unit associates the random numbers MR1 to MR4 with the reservation numbers “1” to “4” in the order of winning the first starting winning opening or the second starting winning opening (the order of detecting game balls), for example. The numerical data of MR3 is stored as suspension data. In this way, the special figure game that has not been started (the execution of which is suspended) (particularly, information on the special figure game) is stored as the reservation memory.

  After the process of step S210, the CPU 103 sets the transmission of the special figure reserved storage number addition designation command (step S211). Thereafter, the CPU 103 determines 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 (starting port buffer value) is initialized to "0" (step S213). ), The start winning 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 the stored value is initialized to "0" (Step S214), and Step S204 is performed. Proceed to processing.

  The special symbol normal process of step S110 shown in FIG. 9 is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is “0”. FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the special symbol normal processing.

  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). When the second special figure reserved storage number is other than “0” (step S231; No), the randomness stored in the first area (the storage area corresponding to the reserved number “1”) of the second special figure reserved storage unit. The numerical data of the numerical values MR1 to MR3 is read (step S232). Thereby, the random number for game extracted in response to the occurrence of the second start winning is read out. The numerical data read at this time may be stored in, for example, a random number buffer for fluctuation in the RAM 102 and temporarily stored.

  Subsequent to the process of step S232, for example, the count value of the second reserved storage number is decremented by one and updated, thereby decrementing the second special figure reserved storage number by one, and changing the storage contents in the second special figure reserved storage unit. The shift is performed (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 shifted upward by one entry at a time. shift. In step S233, the total number of suspended storages is 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 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). When the number of first special figure reserved storages is other than “0” (step S235; No), the randomness stored in the first area (the storage area corresponding to the reserved number “1”) of the first special figure reserved storage unit. The numerical data of the numerical values MR1 to MR3 is read (step S236). As a result, the random number for gaming extracted in response to the occurrence of the first start winning is read out. The numerical data read at this time may be stored in, for example, a random number buffer for fluctuation in the RAM 102 and temporarily stored.

  Subsequent to the process of step S236, for example, by subtracting 1 from the first reserved storage count value and updating it, the first special figure reserved storage number is subtracted by one and the storage contents in the first special figure reserved storage unit are reduced. The shift is performed (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 shifted upward by one entry at a time. shift. In addition, in the processing of step S237, the total number of reserved storages is updated so as to be decremented by one. Then, the variable special figure designation buffer value is updated to "1" (step S238). In this embodiment, the second special figure game is executed with higher priority than the first special figure game by the above processing.

  After executing one of the processes in steps S234 and S238, the special figure display result, which is the variable display result of the special symbol (variable display result of the special figure game), is determined to be one of "big hit" and "losing". (Step S239). As an example, in the process of step S239, the first special figure display result determination table (referred to in the non-probable state) or the second special figure display result determination table (referred to in the probable state) prepared in the ROM 101 in advance. Is used. In each special figure display result determination table, a numerical value (decision value) to be compared with the random number value MR1 for determining the special figure display result is assigned to the special figure display result of "big hit" or "losing" as the determination result. Just do it. The CPU 103 may determine the special figure display result by referring to the special figure display result determination table based on the random number value MR1 for determining the special figure display result read into the random number buffer for fluctuation (matching the random number value). The determination result assigned to the determined value to be determined is the current determination result.) Note that the CPU 103 determines the special figure display result to be "big hit" at a higher determination ratio in the probability change state than in the probability change state. Whether it is in the probable change state may be specified by the state of the probable change flag (flag turned on in the probable change state) provided in the RAM 102. Note that, as described above, the determination based on the table (the table in which the determination result is assigned the determination value) and the random number value (in the above description, the determination of the special figure display result) is also referred to as a lottery.

  The CPU 103 determines whether or not the special figure display result determined by the processing of step S239 is “big hit” (step S240). If the special map display result is determined to be "big hit" (step S240; Yes), the big hit flag provided in the RAM 102 is set to the ON state (step S241).

  Thereafter, the jackpot type is determined to be either “probable change” or “non-probable change” (step S242). The determination is made by lottery using a jackpot type determination table prepared in advance in the ROM 101 and a jackpot type determination random value MR2. For example, the determination ratio of “probable change” is 60/100, and the determination ratio of “non-probable change” is 40/100. In addition, the determination ratio of the big hit type may be different between the first special figure game and the second special figure game. For example, the rate of “probable change” in the second special map game may be higher. Further, the number of round games (number of rounds) in the big hit game state may be made different depending on the big hit type, and the second special figure game may be more likely to have a larger number of rounds. In this way, by increasing the possibility that the second special map game is controlled to the jackpot game state having a higher degree of advantage, it is possible to give the player a motivation to make a right strike in the time reduction state.

  After that, the CPU 103 stores the big hit type by storing the data showing the big hit type determination result in the big hit type buffer provided in the RAM 102 (step S243).

  If the special figure display result is not “big hit” in step S240 (step S240; No), or after executing the processing of step S243, the variable display result (the special figure display result) of the special figure game to be executed this time is The determined special symbol is determined (step S244). As an example, when the big hit flag is off, a special symbol predetermined as a lost symbol is determined as a fixed special symbol. On the other hand, when the big hit flag is ON, one of a plurality of special symbols predetermined as the big hit symbols is determined as the fixed special symbol according to the big hit type stored in the big hit type buffer.

  After executing the processing of step S244, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to "1" (step S245), and then the special special pattern normal processing ends.

  If the number of reserved memories of the first special figure game is “0” in step S235 (step S235; Yes), the demo display setting is performed (step S246), and the special special pattern normal processing ends. In the demonstration display setting, it is determined whether or not the customer waiting demonstration designation command has been transmitted from the main board 11 to the first effect control board 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.

  The variation pattern setting process of step S111 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is “1”. FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the variation pattern setting process.

  In the variation pattern setting process shown in FIG. 12, the CPU 103 first determines whether or not the big hit flag is on (step S261). If the big hit flag is on (step S261; Yes), the fluctuation pattern at the time of the big hit is determined (step S262). On the other hand, when the big hit flag is off (Step S261; No), the fluctuation pattern at the time of the loss is determined (Step S263). The variation pattern is for designating the execution time of the special figure game or the variable display of the decorative symbol (special figure variable time) or the variable display pattern of the decorative symbol.

  FIG. 13 shows a variation pattern used in this embodiment. In this embodiment, there are PA1-1, PA2-1, PA3-2 to PA3-4 as a variation pattern at the time of loss. Further, there are PB3-2 to PB3-4 as fluctuation patterns at the time of a big hit. PA1-1 and PA2-1 specify non-reach. PA2-1 is a pattern for time reduction (with shortening) in which the special figure fluctuation time (execution period of the special figure game) is shorter than the normal (PA1-1). PA3-2 and PB3-2 specify execution of normal reach (no development), PA3-3 and PB3-3 specify execution of reach production that evolves from normal reach to super reach A, and PA3-4 and PB3. -4 designates execution of a reach effect that evolves from normal reach to super reach B.

  In the process of step S262, for example, the variation at the time of the big hit is determined by a lottery using the big hit variation pattern determination table (table for realizing the determination ratio in FIG. 14) prepared in the ROM 101 and the random value MR3 for the variation pattern determination. The pattern is determined. In the process of step S263, for example, the first loss variation pattern determination table prepared in the ROM 101 (a table for realizing the determination ratio in FIG. 15A and referred to in the non-time saving state) or the 2 Loss pattern is determined by lottery using a loss pattern determination table (a table that realizes the determination ratio in FIG. 15B and is referred to in the time saving state) and a random value MR3 for determining a fluctuation pattern. The time variation pattern is determined. Whether the time saving state is set is specified by a time saving flag provided in the RAM 102.

  Referring to FIGS. 14 and 15, the determination ratio of the variation pattern is higher in the order of PA1-1 or PA2-1> PA3-2> PA3-3> PA3-4 at the time of loss. At the time of the big hit, it is higher in the order of PB3-4> PB3-3> PB3-2. For this reason, the big hit expectation is high in the order of super reach B> super reach A> normal reach (no development). Also, in the time saving state, PA2-1 (see FIG. 13) having a short special figure fluctuation time is selected. Therefore, in the time saving state, the average special figure fluctuation time is shorter than in the non-time saving state.

  After executing one of the processes in steps S262 and S263, a special figure fluctuation time (variable display execution period) (see FIG. 13) according to the fluctuation pattern determined this time is set (step S266). The setting of the special figure fluctuation time is performed, for example, by setting a timer value corresponding to the time in a predetermined timer of the RAM 102 (the same applies to setting of other times).

  Subsequent to the process of step S266, a special symbol change is started so as to start any one of the first special figure game and the second special figure game for which the start condition is satisfied (step S267). ). As an example, if the variable special figure designation buffer value is “1”, a drive signal for executing the first special figure game is transmitted to the first special symbol display device 4A. On the other hand, if the variable special figure designation buffer value is “2”, a drive signal for executing the second special figure game is transmitted to the second special symbol display device 4B.

  After executing the processing of step S267, transmission setting of a fluctuation start time command (various commands for specifying the above-described determination result and the like) is performed as a command for starting execution of the special figure game (step S271). For example, when the fluctuation special figure specification buffer value is “1”, the CPU 103 determines the first fluctuation start specification command, the fluctuation pattern specification command, the display result specification command, the first special figure reserved storage number subtraction specification command, the game state. Set the transmission of the specified command. On the other hand, when the variation special figure designation buffer value is “2”, the CPU 103 sets the second variation start designation command, the variation pattern designation command, the display result designation command, the second special figure hold storage number subtraction designation command, the game state Set the transmission of the specified command.

  After executing the processing in step S266, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “2” (step S267), and then the variation pattern setting processing ends.

  The special symbol change process in step S112 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is “2”. For example, the CPU 103 determines whether the special figure variation time set above has elapsed (whether the remaining time has become 0 (hereinafter, the same applies to the elapsed time)) (for example, the predetermined timer updated every timer interrupt). Is determined based on whether or not the timer value of the timer has become 0. The same applies to the determination of the elapse of other time), and when it has not elapsed, the drive signal for executing the first special figure game or the second special figure game Is supplied to the first special symbol display device 4A or the second special symbol display device 4B to perform a process of changing the special symbol, and then the present process is terminated. On the other hand, when the special-figure variation time has elapsed, the timing for deriving the variable display result has come, so a predetermined drive signal is supplied to the first special symbol display device 4A or the second special symbol display device 4B, and the above-described determination is made. The pattern of the variable display result of this time (may be specified by the big hit flag or the big hit type stored in the big hit type buffer, etc.) (“-” for “losing”, “7”, “ In the case of "non-probable change", "5" or the like is stopped (derived display), the transmission setting of the symbol confirmation designation command is performed, and the value of the special figure process flag is updated to "3". The execution of the special figure game is realized by repeatedly executing step S112 each time a timer interrupt occurs.

  The special symbol stop processing of step S113 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is “3”. FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the variation pattern setting process.

  For example, the CPU 103 determines whether the big hit flag is on (step S281). If the big hit flag is on (step S281; Yes), the CPU 103 sets a fanfare waiting time (step S282), and executes the hit start designation command, right The transmission setting of the batting start designation command is performed (step S283), the time-saving flag and the probability change flag are reset to off, and the time-saving counter provided in the RAM 102 (the time-saving remaining number which is the remaining number of variable displays executed during the time-saving state) The count value of the number of times (up to 100 times) is reset to 0 (step S284). Thereafter, the special figure process flag is updated to “4”, and the present process ends (step S285).

  When the big hit flag is off ("at the time of loss") (step S281; No), it is determined whether the time saving flag is on (step S291). When the big hit flag is on (step S291; Yes), the time saving counter is counted. The value is reduced by 1 (step S292), and it is determined whether the value after the reduction is “0” (step S293). When it is “0” (Step S293; Yes), the number of variable displays that can be executed in the time reduction state has reached the upper limit number (100 times), so that a predetermined number of variable displays are executed to end the time reduction state. If there is (when the count value is "0"), the time saving flag is reset to off, and the transmission setting of the game state designation command (designating the non-time saving state) and the right-handing end designation command is performed (step S295). When the time reduction flag is off (when the time reduction state is not set) (step S291; No), when the count value of the time reduction counter is not “0” (when the time reduction state continues) (step S293; No), after step S295, Then, the value of the special figure process flag is set to “0”, and the present process ends. When the probability change flag or the time saving flag is turned off in step S284, the transmission setting of the game state designation command for designating the game state after the turning off may be performed.

  The big hit opening pre-processing of step S114 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is “4”. For example, it is determined whether or not the fanfare waiting time set as described above has elapsed, and if not, the big hit opening pre-processing is terminated. When the fanfare waiting time has elapsed, the process of opening the special winning opening (solenoid drive signal supply) and setting the opening upper limit time (the upper limit period of the round game (for example, 29 seconds)) to start the round game. And so on, and updates the special figure process flag 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”. For example, the CPU 103 determines whether it is time to end the round game. The number of times that the count switch 23 is turned on (the number of gaming balls that have entered the special winning opening) reaches a predetermined value (for example, “9”) (it may be counted by a counter or the like provided in the RAM 102), or the above. When the set opening upper limit period elapses and the timing for ending the round game is reached, the special winning opening is returned to the closed state to end the round game (the process of turning off the solenoid 82), and the round game. Setting of the interval time of. At this time, when the finished round game is the last round game (for example, the fifteenth round) (the count may be performed by a counter or the like provided in the RAM 102), the ending waiting time (start of ending in the big hit game state) , Which is a waiting time from the start to the end, which is a predetermined time), transmits a hit end designation command, updates the special figure process flag to “7”, and ends this processing. If it is not the last round game, the special figure process flag is updated to “6”, and this processing ends. If it is not time to end the round game, the present process is ended as it is (a process of maintaining the special winning opening in an open state may be performed). By repeatedly performing step S115 each time a timer interrupt occurs, the open state of the special winning opening is maintained until the timing of returning the special winning opening to the closed state, and finally the special winning opening is closed.

  The post-big hit release processing in step S116 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is “6”. For example, the CPU 103 determines whether or not the round game interval time set as described above has elapsed, and if not, the closed state is maintained, and this processing ends. When the interval time has elapsed, processing for opening the special winning opening is executed to start the round game, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “5”, and this processing ends.

  Each round game is realized by repeatedly executing S115 and S116 each time a timer interrupt occurs after the winning opening in step S114 is opened.

  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 processing, it is determined whether the ending waiting time set above has elapsed. If the ending waiting time has not elapsed, the big hit end processing is ended as it is. If the ending waiting time has elapsed, the ending is finished. If the jackpot type is “probable”, the probable change flag is set to the ON state. In addition, regardless of the type of the big hit, an initial value of 100 is set in the number-of-time-saving counter and the time-saving flag is turned on. After that, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “0”, and this processing ends. The big hit type may be specified by the big hit type buffer set value stored in the big hit type buffer. When the value of the number-of-time-saving counter reaches “0”, all the special figure games that can be executed in the time-saving state have been executed, and the time-saving state ends (the time-saving flag is turned off).

(Main operation of the first effect control board 12)
When the power of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is turned on, in the first effect control board 12, the effect control CPU 120 executes, for example, a first effect control main process. In the first effect control main process, the effect control CPU 120 first executes a predetermined initial setting process (step S701). The initial setting process includes clearing of the RAM 122, setting of various initial values, register setting of a CTC (counter / timer circuit) mounted on the first effect control board 12, and the like. In the initial setting process, data of the initial background in the effect image is stored in a predetermined storage area of the RAM 122 (necessary data is stored in the ROM 121. The same applies to other data). Backgrounds in the effect image include backgrounds A to E (FIG. 23. Details will be described later), and the initial background is background A. By the end of the initial setting process, control for executing the effect (various determinations for executing the effect and the like) becomes possible, and the first effect control board 12 is started.

  Thereafter, other processes such as a first timer interrupt process, a second timer interrupt process, a command etc. acquiring process, a reset related process and the like are started (step S702). Thereafter, the effect control CPU 120 executes each of these processes and the first effect control main process in parallel. Note that, for example, one or more processing circuits such as another CPU may be provided on the first effect control board 12, and the above-described processing may be executed by the one or more processing circuits.

  The first timer interrupt process is a process of setting a first timer interrupt flag provided in the RAM 122 to be turned on every time a first predetermined time elapses, based on, for example, a register setting of the CTC.

  In the second timer interrupt processing, the second timer interrupt flag provided in the RAM 122 is set to a second predetermined time (may be the same as or different from the first predetermined time, for example) based on the register setting of the CTC. This is a process of turning on each time (good) elapses.

  The command etc. capturing process is a process for capturing (receiving) the first effect control command from the main board 11 and the signals (various signals in FIG. 6) from the second effect control board 30. The received first effect control command and the signal (data indicated by the signal) are stored in, for example, a first effect control command receiving buffer or a signal receiving buffer provided in the RAM 122. The first effect control command and the various signals (data indicated by the signals) in FIG. 6 stored in each buffer are deleted from each buffer at an appropriate timing (when processing based on the command or signal is not performed thereafter). Shall be performed.

  The reset-related process monitors whether the second effect control board 30 is operating normally based on the signal from the second effect control board 30 fetched in the command etc. fetch process, and does not operate normally. This is a process of resetting the second effect control board 30 when it is considered that (the details will be described later).

  After step S702, effect control CPU 120 determines whether or not the first timer interrupt flag is on (step S703). The first timer interrupt flag is set to the on state in the first timer interrupt processing as described above. If the first timer interrupt flag is off (step S703; No), the process stands by. Therefore, the subsequent processing is executed each time a timer interrupt occurs.

  If the first timer interrupt flag is on (step S703; Yes), the flag is cleared and turned off, and the first effect control command analysis process, effect control process process, and effect random number update process are executed. (Steps S704 to S707), the processing of step S703 is executed.

  The first effect control command analysis and the like process is an analysis for specifying which command in FIG. 4 is the first effect control command fetched in the command etc. fetch process, and a process for executing a process according to the specified command. is there. Details of processing such as the first effect control command analysis will be described later.

  In the effect control process, various decisions regarding the effect to be executed by the second effect control board 30 are made based on the first effect control command from the main board 11 (the command specified in the first effect control command analysis etc.). Or a process of transmitting a second effect control command according to the results of the various determinations to the second effect control board 30 to execute the effect. The details of the effect control process will be described later.

  In the effect random number update process, the effect random number (counted by the effect random counter provided in the RAM 122) used in the effect control process process is updated by software.

(Reset-related processing)
In the reset-related processing (see FIG. 18), effect control CPU 120 sets a timer initial value corresponding to a predetermined rise waiting time in a rise waiting time timer (provided in a predetermined area of RAM 122) (step S1). S731). The rise waiting time is a time corresponding to a period until the VDP of the effect control unit 31 starts operation by turning on the power and becomes capable of performing a normal operation (that is, a start time until the VDP rises) (the above-mentioned start time). 10 seconds). The rise waiting time timer measures the rise waiting time.

  Thereafter, the effect control CPU 120 determines whether or not the second timer interrupt flag is on (step S732). The second timer interrupt flag is turned on in the second timer interrupt processing as described above (if it is already on, it is kept on). If the second timer interrupt flag is off (step S732; No), the process stands by.

  If the second timer interrupt flag is on (step S703; Yes), the flag is cleared and turned off, and the normal operation check timer is operating (for example, it is operating if the timer value is not 0). Is determined (step S734). The normal operation check timer is provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 122, and is a timer for measuring a reception waiting time of a normal operation signal periodically transmitted from the second effect control board 30.

  If the timer value of the normal operation check timer is 0 and the timer is not operating (step S734; No), it is determined whether a rising signal (a signal transmitted at the time of rising) from the second effect control board 30 has been received. A determination is made (step S735). For example, the reception is determined based on whether or not the data of the rising signal (the 4-byte data set as the rising signal) is stored in the signal receiving buffer. When the data of the rising signal is not stored in the signal receiving buffer and the rising signal is not received (Step S735; No), the timer value of the rising waiting time timer is reduced by 1 (Step S736). It is determined whether the subsequent timer value is “0” (step S737).

  If the timer value after decrementing by 1 is “0” (step S737; Yes), it means that the rising waiting time (10 seconds) has elapsed without receiving the rising signal, so that the second effect control is performed. Assuming that the substrate 30 (VDP of the effect control unit 31) did not start up normally, a long reset process (see “Long reset” in FIG. 8) for sending a reset signal to the VDP 60000 times is performed, and the operation of the VDP is stopped. At the same time, the cooling fan 40 is driven (to supply a cooling fan drive signal) to cool the VDP (step S738). Thereby, the long reset shown in FIG. 8 is realized, and the VDP is cooled during the long reset period. In addition, as an example of step S738, the effect control CPU 120 increases the count value (initial value is 0) of the counter provided in the RAM 122 by one each time a reset signal is transmitted, and the count value becomes 60000. Then, the long reset and the driving of the cooling fan are terminated assuming that the supply of the reset signal has been completed 60000 times. By such a long reset or the like, even if a thermal runaway or the like occurs in the VDP, the VDP can be returned to a normal state. After step S738, the second effect control board 30 is restarted, so that the process is executed again from step S731.

  When the rising signal is received (when the data of the rising signal is stored in the signal receiving buffer) (step S735; Yes), the second effect control board 30 (the VDP of the effect control unit 31) has started normally. Therefore, the initial value of the timer is set in the normal operation confirmation timer (step S739). Before executing step S714, the timer value of the rise waiting time timer is reset to zero. Also, the data of the rising signal stored in the signal receiving buffer is deleted. The timer initial value of the normal operation confirmation timer may be a value corresponding to a period (here, such as the above 5 seconds) corresponding to the transmission interval (here, 1 second) of the normal operation signal.

  If the normal operation confirmation timer is operating (eg, if the timer value is not 0) (step S734; Yes), it is determined whether a normal operation signal has been received (step S741). For example, the reception is determined based on whether or not the data of the normal operation signal (the 4-byte data set as the normal operation signal) is stored in the signal reception buffer. If the normal operation signal is received because the data is stored (step S741; Yes), the second effect control board 30 is operating normally and waits for the next normal operation signal to be received. Then, the process of step S739 is performed. At this time, the data of the normal operation signal stored in the signal receiving buffer is deleted.

  When the normal operation signal is not received due to no storage of the normal operation signal data (Step S741; No), the timer value of the normal operation confirmation timer is reduced by 1 (Step S742), and the timer value after the reduction is set to 0. Is determined (step S743). In the case of 0 (step S743; Yes), it is considered that an abnormality has occurred in the VDP of the effect control unit 31, so a short reset process of sending a reset signal to the VDP once (see “Short reset” in FIG. 8) To reset the VDP (step S744). Thereby, the short reset of FIG. 8 is realized.

  After step S744, effect control CPU 120 determines whether or not a demonstration flag provided in a predetermined area of RAM 122 is on (step S745). The demonstration flag is turned on when a customer waiting demonstration designation command is received from the main board 11 (during the demonstration period). If the demonstration flag is on (step S745; Yes), the reset flag during the demonstration period (a flag indicating that the reset was performed during the demonstration period) provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 122 is turned on (step S746).

  If the demonstration flag is off (step S745; No), after step S746, the effect control CPU 120 determines whether or not the decorative symbol is currently being variably displayed (step S747). For example, when the value of the effect process flag provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 122 is “2” (while performing the variable display process), it is determined that the variable display is currently being performed (step S747; Yes). ). In this case, the effect control CPU 120 turns on the variable display reset flag (flag indicating that the reset has been performed during the variable display of the decorative symbol (execution period of the special figure game)) provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 122. (Step S748).

  When the variable display is not being performed (step S747; No), after step S748, the effect control CPU 120 determines whether or not the game is currently in the big hit game state (step S749). For example, when the value of the rendering process flag is “4” or “5” (during the execution of the hitting process or the ending process), it is determined that the current state is the big hitting game state (step S749; Yes). . In this case, effect control CPU 120 turns on the big hit reset flag (a flag indicating that the reset has been performed during the big hit game state) provided in a predetermined area of RAM 122 (step S750).

  When the big hit reset flag is off (step S749; No), after step S750, the process of step S731 is executed again. This is because the second effect control board 30 is restarted by the short reset.

  When the long reset or the short reset is performed, the first effect control command or the signal (the various signals in FIG. 6) stored in the first effect control command reception buffer or the signal reception buffer is deleted, The timer values of the various timers may be reset, or the count values of the various counters may be reset (this may allow the processing relating to the effect being performed to be appropriately stopped).

  When the timer interrupt flag is off (step S732; No), when the timer value of the rise waiting time timer is not “0” (step S737; No), when the timer value of the normal operation confirmation timer is not “0” (step S743) ; No), after step S739, the process from step S732 is performed.

  By performing the above series of processes for each timer interrupt, the first effect control board 12 (effect control CPU 120) checks the rising of the second effect control board 30 (confirmed by a rising signal) and the second effect control board. It is possible to check whether the 30 operates normally (check with a normal operation signal), reset the second effect control board 30 (transmit a reset signal), and the like.

(1st production control command analysis, etc.)
In the first effect control command analysis processing, the effect control CPU 120 checks the first effect control command reception buffer and determines whether the first effect control command is stored in the buffer. When the first effect control command is stored, the data content of the stored first effect control command is checked (analyzed) to identify which command is the first effect control command, and the identified command The processing shown in FIG. 19 is performed according to. Specifically, according to which command in the left column in FIG. 19 the identified command is, the corresponding process in the right column in FIG. 19 is executed. In FIG. 19, each flag and each storage area are provided in the RAM 122. Setting a flag means turning on the flag. The first effect control commands are stored in the order in which they are received. In the analysis and other processing, all the commands stored at that time are analyzed and processed. The command that has been analyzed and processed is deleted from the first effect control command receiving buffer.

  As shown in FIG. 19, for example, if the analyzed first effect control command is the first variation start designation command, the first variation start designation command reception flag is turned on. If the analyzed first effect control command is a fluctuation pattern specification command, the command is stored in the fluctuation pattern specification command storage area. When the analyzed first effect control command is a game state designation command, if the command content indicates a probable change state, a high-precision flag (a flag that is turned on in the probable change state) is turned on, and the content indicates a non-probability state. , Turn off the high-accuracy flag. When the content of the gaming state designation command indicates a time saving state, the high base flag (a flag that is turned on during the time saving state) is turned on, and when the content indicates the non-time saving state, the high base flag is turned off. Also, the game status designation command reception flag is turned on. If the analyzed first effect control command is the first (second) special figure reservation storage number addition designation command, the first (second) reservation display image increase designation command (special figure reservation storage number addition designation command designates). The EXT data (the command designated to “XX”) of the same number of images as the number of stored images is transmitted to the second effect control board 30 (the second effect control board 30 increases the number of suspended display images based on the command). Let it do). The flag set by the processing of FIG. 19 is reset to off at an appropriate timing (a timing at which it is no longer necessary to confirm reception of the command), and the command stored by the processing of FIG. It may be deleted at the timing (when it is no longer necessary to receive the command or check its contents).

(Direction control process processing)
In the effect control process process (see FIG. 20), effect control CPU 120 performs the following steps S170 to S175 according to the value of the effect process flag provided in RAM 122 (initial value is “0”). And execute it.

  The variable display start waiting process in step S170 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “0”. FIG. 21 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the variable display start waiting process.

  In the variable display start waiting process, the effect control CPU 120 first sets five commands (first or second change start designation command, change pattern designation command, display result designation command, first or It is determined whether all of the second special figure reserved storage number subtraction designation command and the game state designation command) have been received (step S751). The reception of each command is performed based on whether the corresponding reception flag is turned on or whether the command is stored in the corresponding storage area. For example, when the first variation start designation command reception flag is on, it can be determined that the first variation start designation command has been received. For example, when the variation pattern designation command reception flag is ON, it can be determined that a variation pattern designation command has been received. The method of confirming the reception of such a command is the same as the confirmation of reception of another command.

  If all of the above five commands have not been received, it is determined that the fluctuation start command has not been received yet (step S751; No), and it is determined whether a customer waiting demonstration designation command has been received (step S752). If the customer waiting demonstration designation command has been received (step S752; Yes), the demonstration flag is turned on (step S753). This starts a demonstration period (see FIG. 28; a period during which a demonstration screen including a model description and the like is displayed). In step S753, the customer waiting demonstration designation command reception flag is reset to off.

  After step S753, a demonstration display designation command and a background designation command for designating a background stored in the predetermined storage area of the RAM 122 are transmitted to the second effect control board 30 (steps S757 to S758). The background stored in the predetermined storage area is initially set in step S701 or updated in step S324 described later. By transmitting each of the above commands, a screen (FIGS. 29 to 30) during the demonstration period can be displayed.

  If the customer waiting demonstration designation command has not been received (step S752; No), it is determined whether the reset flag is on during the demonstration period (step S755A). If it is on (step S755; Yes), it means that the VDP of the effect control unit 31 of the second effect control board 30 has been reset (short reset) during the demonstration period. In this case, first, it is determined whether or not the second effect control board 30 (VDP of the effect control unit 31) has been started (step S755B). This determination is made, for example, based on whether the normal operation confirmation timer is operating (the same applies hereinafter). Alternatively, for example, when a rising signal is transmitted, a predetermined flag is turned on, and the rising is determined based on the state of the flag. If the second effect control board 30 is up (Step S755B; Yes), the reset flag is turned off during the demonstration period (Step S756), and the processing of Step S757 and the like is performed. In steps S757 to S758, since the command for designating the background stored in the predetermined storage area is transmitted, the background information displayed before the reset can be notified to the second effect control board 30 after the rise. Thus, the background can be displayed during the demonstration period after the reset. If the second effect control board 30 has not risen (step S755B; No), the variable display start waiting process ends to wait for the second effect control board 30 to rise.

  If all of the above five commands have been received, it is determined that the fluctuation start command has been received (step S751; Yes), and the demonstration flag and the reset flag during the demonstration period are reset to off to start variable display of decorative symbols. Then, the value of the effect process flag is updated to “1” (steps S765 to S766).

  If the reset flag is off during the demonstration period (Step S755; No), the variable display start waiting process ends after Step S766.

  The variable display start setting process in step S171 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “1”. FIG. 22 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 determines the current fluctuation pattern (the fluctuation pattern specified by the fluctuation pattern specification command stored in the fluctuation pattern specification command storage area) and the current display result (display result specification command storage). A final stop symbol (combination of fixed decorative symbols) is determined based on the display result specified by the display result specifying command stored in the area (step S321).

  For example, when the present display result is “probable change big hit”, the first table prepared in advance in the ROM 121 and the random number value SR1 of the random number for effect (the random number circuit 124 or the random number updated by the random number updating process for effect) The final stop symbol is determined to be any one of "3 3 3", "5 5 5", and "7 7 7" by a lottery using (numerical value) and (determination ratio may be arbitrary (for example, equal)) .

  For example, when the present display result is “non-probable variable jackpot”, the final stop symbols are “2 2 2” and “4” by a lottery using the second table prepared in advance in the ROM 121 and the random number value SR1. 44 "or" 66 6 "(the determination ratio may be arbitrary (for example, equal)).

  For example, when the present display result is “losing” and the current variation pattern specifies non-reach (PA1-1, PA2-1), the third table prepared in the ROM 121 in advance and the random number value SR1 The final stop symbol is determined to be one of a plurality of combinations of non-reach losing prepared in advance by lottery using (the determination ratio may be arbitrary (for example, equal)).

  For example, when the present display result is “losing” and the current variation pattern specifies the reach (PA3-2 to PA3-4), the fourth table prepared in advance in the ROM 121 and the random number value SR1 , The final stop symbol is determined to be one of a plurality of combinations of reach loss prepared in advance (the determination ratio may be arbitrary (for example, equal)).

  After step S321, it is determined whether or not an effect is to be executed, the mode of the effect to be executed, and the like (step S322). By performing a lottery using various tables prepared in the ROM 121 in advance and an arbitrary random number value among the effect random numbers, it is determined whether or not various effects such as a notice effect are to be executed and the mode thereof. At this time, by referring to a different table according to the present display result or the like, it is preferable to change the degree of expectation of the big hit according to the presence or absence of the announcement effect or the like and the mode thereof. Also, if the current variation pattern specifies a reach, it is determined that a reach effect specified by the variation pattern (a reach effect when reach is established with a decorative symbol constituting the final stop symbol) is performed. I do.

  Thereafter, the effect control CPU 120 changes the background in the effect image (the background when the variable display of the decorative symbol is performed, the background in the effect performed during the jackpot game state, the background during the demonstration period, and the like). It is determined whether or not to perform the change, and in the case of changing, the type of the background after the change is determined (step S323).

  For example, a lottery using a fifth table prepared in the ROM 121 in advance (for example, a table that realizes the determination ratio of FIG. 23 according to the state of the high-accuracy flag and the high-base flag) and a random number SR5 is used to perform Decide what to change. As shown in FIG. 23, in the case of the low-probability-high base (non-probable-variable state and time-saving state), the background is not changed, and the low-probability-low base (normal state), the high-probability-high base (probable state and the time-saving state), In the case of a high-probability low base (probable change state and non-time saving state), a background change is performed. The change ratio (3/100) at the time of the low-probability low base is higher than the change ratio (4/100) at the time of the high-probability high base or the high-probability low base (the background is higher in the case of the probable change state). changeable). Note that the big hit expectation may be changed depending on whether the background is changed.

  When it is determined that the background is to be changed, the effect control CPU 120 performs a lottery using a sixth table (for example, a table that realizes the determination ratio in FIG. 24) prepared in the ROM 121 and the random number value SR6. Determine the background for the future. As shown in FIG. 24, in this embodiment, a background A (also an initial background) to a background E are prepared. Here, even if it is determined that the background is to be changed, the background before the change may become the future background (that is, there is no background change). As another example, the background may be changed without fail. For example, a plurality of tables having different determination results are prepared, and a table whose current background is not selected is referred to. Further, the background that can be changed may be changed according to the state of the high-accuracy flag or the high base flag. Furthermore, the background that can be displayed may be changed according to the state of the high-accuracy flag and the high base flag (in this case, after the big hit game state ends, the effect image is displayed as an initial background according to the state of these flags). Set as background). The big hit expectation may be changed according to the background (the background may be determined for each variable display, and the big hit expectation may be changed, or depending on the background changed when the background is determined to be changed). The big hit expectation may be reported).

  After that, the effect control CPU 120 overwrites and stores the determined background (when the background is changed) in the predetermined storage area (step S324). Thus, the background stored in the predetermined storage area is updated.

  After that, the effect control CPU 120 issues a background designation command (a command for designating the background stored in the predetermined storage area) and a variable display mode designation command (the current display pattern designation command) for designating the current variation pattern and the contents according to the determination result. A command for designating the variation pattern) and a final stop symbol designating command (a command for designating the final stop symbol determined as described above) are transmitted to the second effect control board 30, and the small symbol variation start designating command is transmitted to the second effect control board 30. (Steps S325A and S325B). Thereby, the variable display of the decorative symbol and the variable display of the small symbol are started.

  After step S325B, the effect control CPU 120 sets a timer value corresponding to the special figure fluctuation time corresponding to the current fluctuation pattern in the effect control process timer provided in a predetermined area such as the RAM 122 as an initial value of the variable display time. It is set (step S326).

  After that, the effect control CPU 120 sets the start timing of the effect determined to be executed in step S322 (predetermined in relation to the effect to be executed and the variation pattern) (step S327). Specifically, a variable display effect designation command for designating the start of the effect determined to be executed, and a timer value indicating the transmission timing for transmitting the command (a timer value counted by the effect control process timer. This is preset in the relationship between the effect to be executed and the variation pattern and is prepared in the ROM 121.) and stored in the timer value storage area of the RAM 122 in association with each other. When there are a plurality of effects determined to be executed, the effect control CPU 120 stores, in each of the effects, the effect designation command during variable display and the timer value indicating the execution timing thereof in the timer value storage area.

  Then, when the fluctuation start time command received this time includes the first fluctuation start designation command, the same image as the number of reserved storages after subtraction designated by the first special figure reserved storage number subtraction designation command included in the fluctuation start time command The first change display command for designating the number is transmitted to the second effect control board 30. If the command received at the start of change includes the second command to start variation, the first command included in the command to start variation is included. A second reserved display image decrease designation command designating the same number of images as the subtracted reserved storage number specified by the 2 special figure reserved storage number subtraction designation command is transmitted to the second effect control board 30 (step S328). As a result, the number of suspended display images is updated by the start of the suspended special figure game (one is subtracted).

  Thereafter, the value of the effect process flag is updated to "2" (step S329), and the variable display start setting process ends.

  The variable display processing in step S172 in FIG. 20 is executed when the value of the effect process flag is “2”. FIG. 25 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing during variable display.

  In the variable display processing, the effect control CPU 120 decrements the timer value of the effect control process timer by 1 and determines whether or not the reduced timer value is 0. It is determined whether or not the display time (special figure change time) has elapsed (step S551).

  If the timer value is not 0, that is, if the variable display time has not elapsed (step S551; No), it is determined whether the variable display reset flag is on (step S552A). If it is on (step S552A; Yes), it means that the VDP of the effect control unit 31 of the second effect control board 30 has been reset (short reset) during the variable display of the decorative symbol. In this case, first, it is determined whether or not the second effect control board 30 (VDP of the effect control unit 31) has been started (step S552B).

  If it has risen (step S552B; Yes), the reset flag during variable display is reset to off (step S553), and the small design change start designation command is issued to the second effect control board 30 so that the variable display of the small design is executed. (Step S554). Thereafter, it is determined whether the high base flag is on (step S555). If the high base flag is on (step S555; Yes), it is a period in which a right-handed driving should be performed (because of a time saving state). Is transmitted to the second effect control board 30 (step S556). By such processing, even if there is a reset during variable display, variable display of small symbols and right-handed notification can be displayed. In addition, as another method for executing the right-handed notification after the reset, in the variable display start setting process, regardless of the presence or absence of the reset, the right-handed notification start designation command is transmitted when the high base flag is on. The second effect control board 30 may continue the right-handed notification when receiving the command while the right-handed notification has already been made.

  When the variable display reset flag or the high base flag is off (steps S552 and S555; No), when the second effect control board 30 is not up (step S552B; No), after step S556, the current It is determined whether it is the start timing of the effect set in S327 (the effect determined to be executed in the current variable display) (step S557). This determination is made based on whether a timer value that matches the current timer value of the effect control process timer is stored in the timer value storage area.

  If a timer value that matches the timer value of the current effect control process timer is stored in the timer value storage area, it is the start timing of the corresponding effect (step S557; Yes). Is transmitted to the second effect control board 30 (step S558). Thus, the effect can be executed at the timing set in step S327. Here, even when the reset is performed during the variable display, it is possible to execute the effect whose execution start timing comes after the reset and after the second effect control board 30 is started up (No. (2) Even if an effect designation command during variable display is transmitted before the effect control board 30 starts up, the effect is not executed).

  When it is not the execution start timing of the effect (Step S557; No), the process during the variable display is ended after Step S558.

  In step S551, when the timer value is 0, that is, when the variable display time has elapsed (step S551; Yes), it is determined whether or not a symbol confirmation designation command has been received from the main board 11 (step S571). . At this time, if the command has not been received (step S571; No), the variable display process ends and the process stands by.

  When the symbol confirmation designating command is received (step S571; Yes), the timing for deriving the final stop symbol comes, and the symbol stop designating command is transmitted to the second effect control board 30 to derive the variable display result. (Step S572). The transmitted design stop designation command is a command for designating “big hit” or “missing” specified by the current variable display result. Thereafter, 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 S573). Then, the reset flag during variable display is reset to off (step S575; if already off, the off flag is maintained). Thus, before the second effect control board 30 starts up, when the variable display (special figure game) that has been executed when the VDP of the second effect control board 30 is reset ends, the variable display is executed thereafter. It is possible to prevent the processing after step S552A from being executed in the new variable display (during execution of the special figure game). When the second effect control board 30 is started up in the variable display (special figure game) executed after the variable display executed at the time of resetting, the variable display of the decorative symbol or the like may not be displayed in the subsequent variable display. Since it is conceivable, the process of step S575 is omitted, the reset flag during variable display is kept on until the second effect control board 30 starts up in the later variable display, and the variable display of small symbols is performed by executing step S554. May be executed. After step S576, the value of the rendering process flag is updated to “3” (step S576), and the variable display process 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 whether or not a hit start designation command has been received from the main board 11. If the hit start designation command has been received, it means that a "big hit" has occurred, so that a big hit medium-sized effect (an effect executed during the big hit game state, including a fanfare) is started. For this reason, a big hit effect start designation command is transmitted to the second effect control board 30. In addition, when a right-handed designation command is received from the main board 11, a right-handed notification start designation command is transmitted to the second effect control board 30 so as to make the player right-handed. As a result, an effect during the big hit is executed, and a right strike notification is also executed. After transmitting these commands, the value of the effect process flag is updated to "4", and the waiting process per special figure ends.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the hit start designation command has not been received yet, it is determined whether the hit start designation command reception waiting time has elapsed. For example, the elapse of the waiting time is determined by subtracting 1 from the timer value of the effect control process timer and determining whether the timer value obtained by subtracting 1 is “0”. If the timer value after subtracting 1 is not “0”, it means that the hit start designation command reception waiting time has not elapsed, and thus this processing is ended as it is. If the timer value after subtracting 1 is “0”, it means that the hit start designation command reception waiting time has elapsed, so that it is determined that the special figure display result in the special figure game is “losing”, The value of the effect process flag is updated to “0”, which is the initial value, and the process ends. At this time, if a right-handed end designation command from the main board 11 has been received, a right-handed information end designation command is transmitted to the second effect control board 30. Thus, the right-handed notification ends.

  The hitting process in step S174 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “4”. FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing an example of the hitting process.

  In the hit-in-progress processing, the effect control CPU 120 determines whether or not a hit end designation command from the main board 11 has been received (step S901), and if the hit end designation command has not been received (step S901; No), the big hit It is determined whether the middle reset flag is on (step S902). If it is on (step S902; Yes), it means that the VDP of the effect control unit 31 of the second effect control board 30 has been reset (short reset) during the big hit game state. In this case, first, it is determined whether or not the second effect control board 30 (VDP of the effect control unit 31) has been started (step S903).

  If it has risen (step S903; Yes), the right hit notification start designation command is transmitted to the second effect control board 30 so that the big hit reset flag is reset to off and the right hit notification is restarted (steps S904 to S904). S905). Thus, even if there is a reset, right-handed notification is performed. By the processing in step S903 and the like, even after a reset has occurred during the big hit game state, an instruction to start right-handed notification can be given after waiting for the second effect control board 30 to rise. When the big hit reset flag is off (Step S902; No), when the second effect control board 30 is not up (Step S903; Yes), the process ends after Step S905.

  If the hit end designation command has been received (step S901; Yes), an ending start designation command is transmitted to start ending (step S911), and the timer value corresponding to the ending effect execution time (ending waiting time) Is set in the effect control process timer or the like (step S912), the value of the effect process flag is updated to “5” (step S913), and the process ends.

  The ending process in step S175 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “5”. In the ending process, the effect control CPU 120 decrements the timer value of the effect control process timer by 1 and determines whether or not the reduced timer value is “0”. The same processing as in S905 is performed. When the timer value is “0”, the reset flag during the big hit is reset to off, the value of the effect process flag is updated to the initial value “0”, and this processing is ended. By these processes, the right strike notification can be appropriately resumed even if there is a reset during the big hit game state, as in the hit-hit process. By resetting the big hit reset flag, it is possible to prevent the on state of the flag from being carried over after ending.

  In the above series of processing (steps S170 to S175), when the value of the effect process flag is updated to the initial value “0”, one variable display or the like has been completed. Also, various data such as the state of various flags and the value of a counter (those not to be carried over to the next variable display) may be appropriately reset.

(Main operation of second effect control board 30 (VDP of effect control unit 31))
In the second effect control board 30, when the power of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is turned on or a reset signal is supplied, the effect control unit 31 (here, VDP) starts operation and the second effect control of FIG. Execute the main processing.

  The effect control unit 31 first executes a predetermined initial setting process to clear an SDRAM or the like, set various initial values, and set a register of a CTC (counter / timer circuit) included in the effect control unit 31 ( Step S71). When the process is completed, the effect control unit 31 enters a state in which the effect can be executed (that is, the state in which the second effect control board 30 or the VDP has risen), and thus transmits a rising signal to the first effect control board 12. (Step S72). As described above, the second effect control board 30 (VDP of the effect control unit 31) may take longer to start up (initial setting and the like) than the main board 11 and the first effect control board 12, and the like. The rise signal can inform the first effect control board 12 of the rise.

  After step S72, effect control unit 31 sets a predetermined timer initial value in the signal transmission timer (step S73). The signal transmission timer is provided in a VDP SDRAM or the like, and is used to measure a period until the next transmission timing of the normal operation signal. The timer initial value is set to a normal operation signal transmission interval (here, 1 Second).

  After step S73, effect control unit 31 determines whether or not a timer interrupt flag provided in an SDRAM or the like is on (step S74). The timer interrupt flag is set to an on state every time a predetermined time elapses, for example, based on a register setting of the CTC in a timer interrupt process executed separately from the second effect control main process. At this time, if the timer interrupt flag is off, the process waits. Therefore, the processing from step S75 is executed every time a timer interrupt occurs.

  In addition, the effect control unit 31 appropriately performs processing for taking in (receiving) the second effect control command from the first effect control board 12, separately from the timer interrupt generated every time a predetermined time elapses. . The received second effect control command is stored in a second effect control command receiving buffer provided in, for example, an SDRAM or the like in the order of reception. Note that the command stored in the second effect control command receiving buffer is deleted at an appropriate timing when it is analyzed and used in steps S77 to S78 described later.

  If the timer interrupt flag is on (step S74; Yes), the timer interrupt flag is cleared and turned off (step S75), and the second effect control command is received from the first effect control board 12. Is determined (step S77). In step S76, for example, the buffer for receiving the second effect control command is checked, and it is determined whether the second effect control command is stored in the buffer.

  If the second effect control command has been received (step S77; Yes), the received second effect control command is analyzed, and which command is the second effect control command to be analyzed is specified. A process corresponding to the command is performed (step S78). Here, for example, the processing shown in FIG. 28 is performed. When there are a plurality of received commands, the processing shown in FIG. 28 is performed for each command.

  The effect control unit 31 displays various images of the image display device 5 by the processing of FIG. 28, and the images have a layer structure including a plurality of layers. Specifically, the first layer displays a background image, the second layer displays a suspended display image, the third layer displays a variable display of a decorative pattern and a variable display of a small pattern, In the subsequent layers, images of various effects such as a reach effect and a notice effect are displayed. In the CGROM or the like, image data is prepared for each layer, and when a rendered image is displayed, a video signal (a video signal representing a combination of images of the image data) is generated and output based on the image data for each layer. You.

  If the specified command includes a background designation command, display of a background image (background image) designated by the command is started to be displayed on the first layer. Thereafter, the effect control unit 31 performs the process of displaying the background in parallel with the second effect control main process. When the background already displayed is the same as the background designated by the current background designation command, the background already displayed may be maintained.

  When the specified command includes the variable display mode designation command and the final stop symbol designation command, the final stop symbol designated by the final stop symbol designation command is the variable display mode (variable pattern) designated by the variable display mode designation command. Is started in the third layer. For example, when the final stop symbol is “777” and the variation pattern is PB3-4, the reach is established at “7”, and the variable display of the decorative symbol that ultimately derives “777” is executed. Thereafter, the effect control unit 31 performs the process of executing the variable display in parallel with the second effect control main process.

  If the specified command includes a variable display effect designation command, the execution of the effect specified by the command is started. For example, an effect image is displayed on the fourth and subsequent layers. Further, effects may be executed by outputting sounds from the speakers 8L and 8R, lighting the game effect lamp 9, and the like. Thereafter, the effect control unit 31 performs the process of executing the effect in parallel with the second effect control main process.

  If the specified command includes a small symbol variation start designation command, execution of variable display of the small symbol is started in the third layer. In the variable display of the small symbols, unlike the variable display of the decorative symbols, since the small symbols do not stop before the variable display result is derived, the variable display of the small symbols is At any point in time until the variable display is derived, the appearance is almost the same. Thereafter, the effect control unit 31 performs the process of executing the variable display in parallel with the second effect control main process.

  If the specified command includes a symbol stop designation command, display control for deriving a variable display result is performed in the variable display of the decorative symbol and the variable display of the small symbol being executed. At this time, the variable display result (combination of confirmed small symbols) derived in the variable display of the small symbol differs depending on the variable display result specified by the command (in the case of “big hit”, “222”, “outside” "," 153 "). In the variable display of small symbols, three small symbols are stopped at the same time (while the variation of the small symbols is uniform and the fluctuation speed is also constant), the combination of the determined small symbols suddenly changes when the command is received. Derived and displayed (the variation state of the small symbol up to that point does not matter). On the other hand, in the variable display of the decorative symbols, some of the decorative symbols are stopped before the command is received because the three decorative symbols stop in order or the fluctuation speed changes.

  When the specified command includes a jackpot start designation command or an ending start designation command, the execution of the jackpot effect or ending is started. For example, an effect image is displayed on the fourth and subsequent layers. Further, effects may be executed by outputting sounds from the speakers 8L and 8R, lighting the game effect lamp 9, and the like. Thereafter, the effect control unit 31 performs the process of executing the effect in parallel with the second effect control main process.

  If the specified command includes a right-handed notification start designation command, execution of a right-handed notification effect is started. For example, an image instructing right-handing is displayed on the fourth and subsequent layers. Further, the notification may be performed by audio output from the speakers 8L and 8R. Thereafter, the effect control unit 31 performs the process of executing the effect in parallel with the second effect control main process.

  If the specified command includes a right-handed notification end designation command, the execution of the right-handed notification effect is ended.

  If the specified command includes a demonstration display designation command, the demonstration period starts. In the demonstration period, the effect control unit 31 sets a background image and a stop symbol (a final stop symbol in a demonstration period after execution of variable display, otherwise, an initial stop symbol (in a demonstration period immediately after power-on or reset). (Combination of stopped decorations)) and displaying the demo screen (movie screen for explaining the model of the pachinko gaming machine 1 and the operation method) for 15 seconds. , A timer, etc.) (FIG. 29). The effect control unit 31 performs the process during the demonstration period in parallel with the second effect control main process.

  When the specified command includes the first reserved display image increase designation command, display control for increasing the first reserved display image 5HA by one in the second layer is performed. When the specified command includes the second reserved display image increase designation command, display control for increasing the second reserved display image 5HB by one in the second layer is performed.

  When the specified command includes the first reserved display image decrease designation command, display control for reducing the first reserved display image 5HA by one in the second layer is performed. When the specified command includes the second reserved display image decrease designation command, display control for reducing the second reserved display image 5HB by one in the second layer is performed. When the number of the reserved display images is reduced by one, the reserved display image corresponding to the special figure game to be executed is erased, and the display positions of the other reserved display images may be shifted by one.

  Referring back to FIG. 27, after the step S78, when the second effect control command has not been received (step S77; No), the timer value of the signal transmission timer is reduced by 1 (step S81), and the reduced timer value becomes It is determined whether the value has become 0 (step S82). If the value has become 0 (step S82; Yes), a normal operation signal is transmitted (step S83), and then the initial value is set to the signal transmission timer (step S73). (The same as the initial value) is set (step S84), and the process of step S74 is executed again (the same applies when the timer value after the subtraction is not 0 (step S82; No)). A normal operation signal is periodically transmitted to the first effect control board 12 by steps S81 to S84 and the like.

(Direction screen, etc.)
An example of an effect screen realized by the above series of processing (especially an effect screen when a reset is performed) will be described.

(Direction screen during the demonstration period, etc.)
As shown in FIG. 29, in the demonstration period, the stop symbol (the last stop symbol in the previous variable display, or the initial stop symbol (here, “123”) when the variable display is not executed after the power is turned on or after the reset. 30 (D)) is displayed for 15 seconds together with the background (designated by the background designation command) (FIG. 30 (A)), and thereafter, the demonstration screen (model explanation of pachinko gaming machine 1, operation method, etc.) (A movie screen guiding the user) for 15 seconds (FIG. 30B) is repeated. After the reset, during the demonstration period in which the variable display is not executed, the initial stop symbol is displayed, so that the player can check whether the variable display is not executed based on the stop symbol.

  If the reset is performed during the demonstration period, the effect control unit 31 (particularly, VDP) cannot operate from the supply of the reset signal to the rise. The effect control CPU 120 of the first effect control board 12 transmits a demonstration designation command and a background designation command when the second effect control board 30 starts up after resetting (see steps S755A to S758). By receiving the demonstration display designation command and the background designation command after the start-up, the effect control unit 31 can start the demonstration period (start from the beginning) and display the background. Therefore, nothing is displayed on the image display device 5 from the reset to the reception of the background designation command or the like, and the screen of the image display device 5 becomes completely dark (black screen) (FIG. 30C). When the demonstration period starts (return of image display), the background is displayed based on the background designating command (the final stop symbol is not displayed due to data loss due to reset).

  The stop symbol does not have to be displayed in the demonstration period immediately after the power is turned on or immediately after the reset (demonstration period in which variable display is not performed once). Thus, it is possible to determine whether the variable display has not been performed or has been performed at least once just by looking at the screen during the demonstration period. Further, a final stop symbol (including the first initial stop symbol in this case) is stored in the predetermined storage area on the first effect control board 12 side (updated each time the variable display is executed). When transmitting the demonstration display designation command and the background designation command (steps S757 and S758), the effect control board 12 displays the final stop symbol stored in the predetermined storage area (decorative symbol displayed when the variable display is not executed). (A final stop symbol designating command may be used), and the effect control unit 31 may display the final stop symbol specified by the command during the demonstration period. Even in such a case, the final stop symbol (including the initial stop symbol) can be displayed in the demonstration period immediately after the power is turned on or immediately after the reset (demonstration period that arrives without performing any variable display). If there is no reset, the stopped symbols and background during the demonstration period may be continuously displayed as they were before (there is no need to check the background or the like with a background designation command or the like).

  The background designation command, the final stop design designation command, and the like may be transmitted only at the time of reset. That is, in FIG. 21, after step S753 (at the time of non-reset), step S757 may be executed, but step S758 may not be executed (in this case, the background and the stop symbol are the second effect control board 30). Side should take over the previous one and display it). After the reset (that is, after step S756), a background designating command for designating a preset initial background may be transmitted (when transmitting a final stop symbol designating command, a preset initial background designating command may be transmitted). A final stop symbol designating command for designating a stop symbol is transmitted). During the demonstration period, a symbol stop designation command may be transmitted instead of the final stop symbol designation command (in this case, the symbol stop designation command specifies "big hit" or "losing". , A predetermined final stop symbol is displayed (may be different from the last final stop symbol).

(Direction screen etc. during variable display)
As shown in FIG. 31 (A), during the execution period of the variable display, the background (specified by the background specification command) is displayed, and the decorative design is variably displayed (the variable table mode is the variable display target specification command). And the final stop symbol designation command), and the small symbol is variably displayed (started by the small symbol change start designation command).

  If the reset is performed during the execution of the variable display, the effect control unit 31 (particularly, the VDP) cannot operate from the supply of the reset signal to the rise. The effect control CPU 120 of the first effect control board 12 transmits a small symbol variation start designation command when the second effect control board 30 starts up after resetting (see steps S552A to S554). The effect control unit 31 can start the variable display of the small symbol by receiving the small symbol change start designation command (return of the screen) (the variable display of the small symbol does not stop in the middle, and is uniformly reduced). Since the symbol is changed, there is no sense of incongruity even if the variable display of the small symbol is started halfway. Therefore, nothing is displayed on the image display device 5 from the reset to the reception of the small symbol change start designation command, and the screen of the image display device 5 becomes completely dark (black screen) (FIG. 31B). When the effect control unit 31 receives the small symbol variation start designation command, the variable display of the small symbol is displayed (return of the image display) (FIG. 31 (C)). Thereafter, when a symbol stop designation command is received, a combination of fixed small symbols according to whether the variable display result specified by the command is "big hit" or "losing" is derived as a variable display result (FIG. 31 ( D)). The decorative design and the background are not displayed due to data loss due to the reset.

  When transmitting the small symbol variation start specifying command from the first effect control board 12, a background specifying command may also be transmitted, and the background may be displayed when returning. Further, a final stop symbol designating command may be transmitted together with the symbol stop designating command to derive a combination of fixed decorative symbols when deriving the variable display result. Alternatively, based on the symbol stop designation command, a predetermined combination of fixed decorative symbols may be derived in accordance with the "big hit" or "losing" designated by the command (in this case, "big hit" Is to always derive the final stop symbol of the non-probable change jackpot so that the player does not mistakenly consider it to be a non-probable change).

(Direction screen during big hit game state)
As shown in FIG. 32 (A), in the big hit game state, a big hit middle production for notifying that the big hit game state is being made, and a right hit notification effect (right hit notification image (“Right hit! And the display of an arrow image Y1) to the right are executed (executed by receiving a jackpot effect start designation command and a right strike notification start designation command).

  If the reset is performed during the big hit game state, the effect control unit 31 (particularly, VDP) cannot operate from the supply of the reset signal to the rise. The effect control CPU 120 of the first effect control board 12 transmits a right strike notification start designation command when the second effect control board 30 starts up after the reset (see steps S902 to S905). The effect control unit 31 can start the right-handed notification by receiving the right-handed notification start designation command (return to the screen). Accordingly, nothing is displayed on the image display device 5 from the reset to the reception of the right strike notification start designation command, and the screen of the image display device 5 becomes black (black screen) (FIG. 32B). When the right control notification start designation command is received on the effect control unit 31 side, an image of the right notification (“Right-click!” And an arrow image Y1 to the right) is displayed (return of image display). ) (FIG. 32 (C)). Thereafter, when the ending start designation command is received, the ending is started (FIG. 32 (D)). The image and the background of the effect during the big hit are not displayed due to the data loss due to the reset.

  When transmitting the right strike notification start designation command from the first effect control board 12, a background designation command may also be transmitted, and the background may be displayed when returning. Further, a final stop designating command may be transmitted to display a combination of the determined decorative designs.

  Note that the first hold display image 5HA and the second hold display image 5HB are not displayed due to data loss at the time of reset. These displays are restored by displaying the number of hold display images specified by these commands when a hold display image increase designation command, a hold display image phenomenon designation command, or the like is transmitted. During the big hit, control may be performed so that the younger brother 1 reserved display image 5HA and the second reserved display image 5HB are not displayed.

(Effect 1 of this embodiment)
(1) In this embodiment, during the demonstration period, when the VDP of the effect control unit 31 of the second effect control board 30 is reset (as described above, the operation of the VDP stops compared to the operation of the second effect control board 30). After the VDP (second effect control board 30) rises, at least a background designation command is transmitted from the first effect control board 12 to the second effect control board 30 (in the above description, The command is transmitted only at the time of the short reset, but the command may be transmitted after the long reset. In this case, the process from step S745 is performed after step S738. Upon receiving the command, the VDP can recognize the current state of the pachinko gaming machine 1 (the background to be displayed), and displays the background designated by the background designation command on the image display device 5. Thus, the VDP (the second effect control board 30) can display the background on the image display device 5 immediately after starting up. Normally, when a reset occurs, the effect screen will not be displayed until the next command is supplied. In particular, if a reset occurs during the demonstration period, a state in which nothing is displayed on the image display device 5 continues until the variable display is started. In the present embodiment, even if a reset occurs during the demonstration period, the background control command for specifying the background before the reset is supplied to the effect control unit 31, so that a state in which nothing is displayed on the image display device 5 is long. It can be prevented from continuing for a long time. Thus, in this embodiment, an image (here, a background) can be suitably displayed even when a reset occurs during the demonstration period. In this embodiment, the command for notifying the background is common between the reset and the non-reset, so that the command can be saved (a special reset command may be prepared).

(2) Also, in this embodiment, if the VDP of the effect control unit 31 of the second effect control board 30 is reset during the execution of the variable display, the VDP (the second effect control board 30) will be reset after the start of the VDP. At least a small symbol start designation command is transmitted from the first effect control board 12 to the second effect control board 30 (in the above description, the command is transmitted only during a short reset, but after the long reset, the command is transmitted). A command may be transmitted, in which case, the process from step S745 is performed after step S738. Upon receiving the command, the VDP can recognize the current state of the pachinko gaming machine 1 (variable display is being performed) and display the variable display of the small symbol on the image display device 5. Thus, the VDP (second effect control board 30) can display on the image display device 5 an image (variable display of a small symbol) indicating that the current variable display is being performed immediately after startup. Normally, when a reset occurs, the effect screen will not be displayed until the next command is supplied, so if a reset occurs during the variable display period, for example, until the variable display ends or the next variable display is performed. Until the operation is started, a state in which nothing is displayed on the image display device 5 continues. In this embodiment, since the small symbol start designation command (which is also information indicating that the variable display period is being performed) is supplied to the effect control unit 31, the state where nothing is displayed on the image display device 5 is long. It can be prevented from continuing for a long time. As described above, in this embodiment, even when reset occurs during variable display, an image (here, variable display of small symbols) can be suitably displayed. In this embodiment, a command for designating the start of a small symbol is used in common at the time of reset and at the time of non-reset, thereby saving commands (even if a special reset command is prepared). Good). In addition, as described above, the variable display of the small symbol has only fluctuation and stop (some small symbols do not stop in the middle), and the variable display result can be derived immediately. When the variable display is performed, the unnatural feeling of the effect is less than when the decorative design is variable displayed after the reset.

(3) Also, in this embodiment, when the VDP of the effect control unit 31 of the second effect control board 30 is reset during the big hit game state, the first effect is activated after the VDP (the second effect control board 30) rises. At least a right strike notification start designation command is transmitted from the effect control board 12 to the second effect control board 30 (in the above description, the command is transmitted only during a short reset, but after the long reset, the command is transmitted). A command may be transmitted, in which case, the process from step S745 is performed after step S738. By receiving the command, the VDP can recognize the current state of the pachinko gaming machine 1 (during the big hit game state) (in the above description, when the right strike notification start designation command and the small symbol start designation command are received). , It can be recognized that the time reduction state is being variably displayed, and when only the right strike notification start designation command is received, it can be recognized that it is in the big hit game state. The contents of the command may be divided (EXT data may be different or prepared as a separate command), or the image of the right-hand notification may be displayed on the image display device 5. Therefore, the VDP (the second effect control board 30) can immediately display the image of the right-handed notification on the image display device 5 immediately after the start-up (that is, notify the player of the right-handedness, and make a large hit game state). It is possible to reduce the possibility that the player misses the prize in the winning opening by displaying only the image of right-handed notification and not displaying other images (especially images for notifying that a big hit is in progress). , The screen at the time of restoration of the VDP can be made plain and suitable). Normally, when a reset occurs, the effect screen is not displayed until the next command is supplied. Therefore, if a reset occurs during the jackpot game state, a state in which nothing is displayed on the image display device 5 continues for a long time. There is a risk. In this embodiment, a right-handed notification start designation command (which is also information indicating that the game is in a big hit game state) is supplied to the effect control unit 31, so that the image display device 5 may display nothing. It can be prevented from continuing for a long time. As described above, in this embodiment, even when a reset occurs during the big hit game state, an image (here, an image of right-handed notification) can be suitably displayed. In this embodiment, a command for specifying the start of right-handed notification is used at the time of reset and at the time of non-reset, thereby saving commands (a special command for reset is prepared. Good).

  At the start (when the special winning opening is opened) or at the end (when the special winning opening is closed) of each round game in the big hit game state, a first effect control command for designating the first effect is issued from the main board 11 to the first effect. The first effect control board 12 may transmit the second effect control command to the second effect control board 30 instructing the notification of the opening or closing of the special winning opening based on these commands. . Then, based on these commands, the VDP of the effect control unit 31 may display an image notifying the opening or closing of the special winning opening. In such a case, after the reset, by opening or closing the first special winning opening, an image for notifying the opening or closing of the special winning opening is displayed, so that the player can be notified that the big hit is being played. In such a case, each time the special winning opening is opened or closed, a right-handed start designation command may be transmitted from the main board 11, and a right-handed notification start designation command may be sent from the first effect control board 12. . In such a case, steps S902 to S905 can be omitted, whereby the right strike notification can be started from the opening or closing of the next big winning opening after reset. By not omitting steps S902 to S905, the start of the right strike notification after reset can be made a little earlier.

(Effect 2 of this embodiment)
In this embodiment, when the VDP of the effect control unit 31 rises, a rise signal is sent from the VDP to the first effect control board 12 to notify the rise. The VDP of the image processing system may have a slow rise, but since the rise is notified to the first effect control board 12 as described above, the first effect control board 12 can grasp the rise and before the VDP rises. The inconvenience of the first effect control board 12 starting the normal operation (for example, transmitting the second effect control command) can be solved. In addition, the VDP of the effect control unit 31 periodically transmits a normal operation signal to the first effect control board 12, so that the first effect control board 12 can monitor whether the VDP is operating normally.

(Effect 3 of this embodiment)
(1) In this embodiment, the VDP of the effect control unit 31 of the second effect control board 30 can be reset in the event of an abnormality or the like by a short reset. Therefore, it is possible to appropriately recover from the abnormality. In addition, since a long reset is performed when a rising signal is not transmitted when the power is turned on, the VDP can be reset even if the VDP is abnormal when the power is turned on. Therefore, it is possible to appropriately recover from the abnormality. Further, when the VDP is at a high temperature, the VDP may not be able to return to the normal state even if the short reset is performed once. When the VDP is still abnormal even after the short reset is performed (when the rising signal cannot be received for 10 seconds after the reset), the long reset is performed. Thus, during this period, it is possible to suppress the VDP from performing a process that places a burden on the VDP (that is, the VDP can be suitably operated), and it is possible to effectively promote the recovery from the VDP abnormality. . For example, when the temperature of the VDP becomes high, the operation of the VDP can be stopped until the VDP cools down. As a result, execution of a process with a large load can be prohibited, and the cooling of the VDP can be promoted. This embodiment is particularly effective when thermal runaway or the like occurs due to a high VDP. Note that a long reset may be performed when a normal operation signal cannot be received for the VDP after normal startup. However, in this embodiment, when a normal operation signal cannot be received, a short reset is performed once, and thereafter, A long reset is performed when a rising signal cannot be received. Thus, for example, when a normal operation signal is not normally input due to noise or the like, it is possible to prevent a long reset from being performed at a timing that is not originally abnormal, and it is possible to perform a long reset at an appropriate timing.

(2) Further, in this embodiment, by performing a long reset by a reset signal used when resetting the VDP (usually used by any processor), the operation of the VDP is maintained for a certain period (long). Period), the operation of the VDP can be stopped by simple processing (recovery from thermal runaway or the like can be performed by simple processing).

(3) In addition, since the cooling fan 40 is operated during the long reset, the cooling of the VDP can be promoted.

(A configuration in which at least a part of the above embodiment and the like is an example)
Next, a description will be given of a configuration in which at least a part of the above-described embodiment is an example or a modified configuration thereof. However, the following configuration may be appropriately omitted, or only a part may be adopted to use a pachinko machine. The gaming machine 1 may be configured. In addition, the description of one configuration of the following configurations can also be used for the description of the other configuration (duplicate description is omitted).

(Configuration 1)
(1) A gaming machine (for example, pachinko gaming machine 1) capable of performing variable display (for example, variable display of special symbols),
First control means (for example, first effect control board 12),
Second control means (for example, VDP of the effect control unit 31) for displaying an image relating to the game on the display means based on the information (for example, the second effect control command) from the first control means,
The first control means, when an abnormality occurs in the second control means during a period in which the variable display is not executed (for example, during a demonstration period) and the second control means recovers (for example, when resetting), the game machine is reset. Output specific information (for example, a background designation command) capable of specifying a state (for example, background) to the second control means (for example, steps S755A to S758 in FIG. 21),
A gaming machine characterized by that:

  In the above embodiment, the pachinko gaming machine 1 is exemplified as a gaming machine, but, for example, a slot machine may be adopted as the gaming machine. Further, the first control means and the second control means may be different substrates or different parts (for example, different chips) on the same substrate. For example, the effect control CPU 120 and the effect control unit 31 may be provided on the same substrate. Further, the first control means may be the main board 11 and the second control means may be the first effect control board.

  In the above embodiment, the VDP is adopted as the second control means. However, the second control means may be a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), a GCL (Graphics Controller LSI), or more generally a DSP (Digital Signal Processor). ) May be a microprocessor for image processing. The second control means may be of any type, such as a program having a built-in program, or a program executing a program stored in a predetermined storage device. In addition, in order to execute processing for determining an execution mode of the effect, a CPU, a ROM (a program executed by the CPU, data used by the CPU, and the like are stored as a part of the second control unit or a configuration of another unit) ), A RAM (a main memory of the CPU), or the like may be prepared separately from the VDP or the like. The second control means may be constituted by a one-chip processor such as a VDP including a GCROM.

  The CGROM of the effect control unit 31 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. What is necessary is just to be comprised using any one of the recording media. These storage means may be a part of the second control means.

  The image related to the game may be any effect image or the like, and includes the background image as described above. The background image may be visually recognized when playing the game (including viewing the screen during the demonstration period), and thus is included in the image related to the game.

  The gaming machine may have control means such as the main board 11 as in the above embodiment. That is, the gaming machine further includes game control means (for example, main board 11) for controlling the progress of the game and outputting information in accordance with the progress of the game, and the first control means includes information output by the game control means. May be transmitted to the second control means. The above-mentioned information may be a command or a control signal that does not take a command format. As in the above embodiment, the first control means (also referred to as first effect control means) performs processing for causing the second control means to execute an effect based on information from the game control means. The second control means (also referred to as the second effect control means) may be continuously performed even when resetting (for example, the reset-related process and the first effect control main process are executed in parallel), Thus, the first control means does not wait even if there is a reset, and can continue the processing according to the progress of the game.

  The state of the gaming machine may be a gaming state or the like. In this case, the specific information is a game state designation command or the like.

  The second control means may display an image corresponding to the state of the gaming machine specified by the specific information as an image related to the game, based on the specific information, as in the above-described embodiment. Accordingly, an image can be displayed appropriately after the second control means is restored.) Alternatively, a sound explaining the state of the gaming machine may be output based on the specific information, or the specific information may be output. A process based on the specific information may be performed after a lapse of a predetermined period after receiving the information.

  The time when the second control means is restored is, for example, after the second control means is started up after being reset or the like and started up (when an operation for performing an effect is possible based on a received command or the like) or the like. Should be fine.

  In the above-described embodiment, the first control unit recognizes when the second control unit has recovered from the abnormality by receiving the rising signal and outputs the specific information, but the first control unit performs the second control unit. After resetting the control means (may be reset by means other than the first control means), after a lapse of a predetermined period of time (for example, after a lapse of a preset time that would always be up), May be output. That is, the above-described configuration (the first control means outputs specific information to the second control means when an abnormality occurs in the second control means and is restored) It is not necessary for the first control means to recognize the restoration of the second control means.

  The above configuration (the first control means outputs specific information to the second control means when an abnormality occurs in the second control means and the second control means recovers) is described in the above embodiment. The second control means is effective when the second control means is configured to cause the data of the effect or the like being executed to be lost at the time of recovery from the abnormality (at the time of resetting). Even if it is configured not to lose the data, it is possible to transmit the specific information as in the above configuration because data loss or the like may occur at the time of recovery.

  According to such a configuration, the second control means recovered from the abnormality can recognize the state of the gaming machine. For example, if the second control means is frozen or down due to the effect of noise generated from another adjacent gaming machine or an island where the gaming machine is installed, the second control means can be restored, The second control means can recognize the state of the gaming machine.

(2) In the gaming machine of the above (1),
The first control means includes:
Determining means (for example, steps S741 to S743 in FIG. 18) for determining whether a predetermined signal (for example, a normal operation signal) has been output from the second control means;
Reset means (for example, step S744 in FIG. 18) for resetting (for example, short resetting) the second control means based on the determination result of the determination means;
Specific information output means (for example, steps S755A to S758 in FIG. 21) for outputting the specific information (for example, a background designation command) after resetting by the reset means.
You may do so.

  According to such a configuration, the second control means can be appropriately recovered from the abnormality, and the second control means recovered from the abnormality can recognize the state of the gaming machine.

(3) In the gaming machine of (1) or (2),
The identification information includes a command (for example, a background designation command) for designating at least a part of an image related to a game before the second control means becomes abnormal.
You may do so.

  At least a part of the image related to the gaming machine may be a part other than the background.

  According to such a configuration, the second control means recovered from the abnormality can recognize the state of the gaming machine.

(4) In the gaming machine according to any one of the above (1) to (3),
The specific information includes a command (for example, a demo display designation command) for designating a demo display on the display unit, and a command (for example, a background designation command) for designating at least a part of an image related to a game.
You may do so.

  According to such a configuration, the second control means recovered from the abnormality can recognize the state of the gaming machine. In particular, the above two commands allow the second control means to recognize that the variable display is not currently being performed.

(5) In the gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (4),
When the period during which predetermined communication with the second control unit cannot be performed exceeds a specific period (for example, when a rising signal cannot be received for 10 seconds), the first control unit transmits a specific signal to the second control unit. (For example, a reset signal) is output continuously over a predetermined period (for example, a long reset),
(A detailed description will be given in Configuration 4.)

  According to such a configuration, the second control means can be suitably operated.

(6) The gaming machine may be configured as follows.
A gaming machine (for example, a pachinko gaming machine 1) capable of performing variable display (for example, variable display of a special symbol),
First control means (for example, first effect control board 12),
Second control means (for example, VDP of the effect control unit 31) for displaying an image relating to the game on the display means based on the information (for example, the second effect control command) from the first control means,
The second control means displays an image related to a common game irrespective of the state of the gaming machine when recovering from an abnormality when the variable display is not being executed (for example, when starting up after resetting) (for example, FIG. 33),
A gaming machine characterized by the following.

  For example, the first control means does not output a predetermined command designating that the reset has been performed, and normally outputs a demonstration display designation command (display of an image related to a common game irrespective of the state of the gaming machine) during non-reset normal time. After reset, outputs a predetermined command and a demonstration display designation command. When the second control means receives only the demonstration display designation command, the second control means displays a background or a stop symbol (variable display). If the display has not been executed yet, the initial background and stop symbol are displayed. If the variable display is executed, the previous background and the stop symbol are taken over.) Alternatively, when a predetermined command is also received (when there is a reset), the demonstration display may be repeated (see FIG. 33). As a result, the above specific information may not be needed. The demonstration display may be repeated regardless of the presence or absence of the reset (in this case, the background and the stop symbol are not displayed). This eliminates the need to determine whether or not there is a reset.

  According to such a configuration, a suitable image can be displayed after recovery from the abnormality.

(Configuration 2)
(1) A gaming machine (for example, pachinko gaming machine 1) capable of performing variable display (for example, variable display of special symbols),
First control means (for example, first effect control board 12),
Second control means (for example, VDP of the effect control unit 31) for displaying an image relating to the game on the display means based on the information (for example, the second effect control command) from the first control means,
When the first control means recovers after an abnormality occurs in the second control means during variable display (for example, when resetting), the first control means can specify specific information (for example, A small symbol change start designation command is output to the second control means (for example, steps S552A to S554 in FIG. 25),
A gaming machine characterized by that:

  The specific information only needs to be information that can specify variable display, and a dedicated command to that effect may be prepared. In addition, a command for variable display of a decorative symbol (variable display mode designating command or the like) output at the start of variable display may be used as the specific information (in this case, the command and the command to the effect of resetting the second control means). The second control means may perform variable display of the small symbol based on the command, or notify that the variable display is being performed by displaying a message or the like or outputting sound.)

  According to such a configuration, the second control means recovered from the abnormality can recognize the state of the gaming machine. For example, if the second control means is frozen or down due to the effect of noise generated from another adjacent gaming machine or an island where the gaming machine is installed, the second control means can be restored, The second control means can recognize the state of the gaming machine.

(2) In the gaming machine of the above (1),
The display of an image relating to a game includes a variable display of decoration identification information (for example, a decorative pattern) and special identification information (for example, a small pattern) that is smaller than the decoration identification information and is displayed at a position that is always visible to the player. And a variable display of
The first control means includes:
Determining means (for example, steps S741 to S743 in FIG. 18) for determining whether a predetermined signal (for example, a normal operation signal) has been output from the second control means;
Reset means (for example, step S744 in FIG. 18) for resetting (for example, a short reset) the second control means based on the determination result of the determination means;
Specific information output means (for example, steps S552A to S554 in FIG. 25) for outputting the specific information after the reset by the reset means,
The specific information includes a command for starting variable display of special identification information (for example, a small symbol change start designation command),
You may do so.

  For example, even in the case where a movable member that advances forward of the display means is provided, the special identification information may be displayed at a position that is not covered by the movable member, and may be displayed at a position that is always visible to the player. .

  The command for starting the variable display of the special identification information may be common between the restoration and the start of the variable display as in the above-described embodiment (small symbol variation start designation command), or may be different depending on whether or not there is a reset. It may be a command (for example, a special command for designating that the small symbol is changed at the time of resetting). It is preferable to use a common command at the time of restoration and at the time of starting variable display, because the number of commands can be reduced.

  According to such a configuration, the second control means can be appropriately recovered from the abnormality, and the second control means recovered from the abnormality can recognize the state of the gaming machine. Further, the variable display of the special identification information allows the player to recognize that the variable display is being performed.

(3) In the gaming machine of (1) or (2),
The display of an image relating to a game includes a variable display of decoration identification information (for example, a decorative pattern) and special identification information (for example, a small pattern) that is smaller than the decoration identification information and is displayed at a position that is always visible to the player. And a variable display of
The first control means includes a first command for starting variable display of special identification information (for example, a small symbol variation start designation command) and a display result of the variable display, which is advantageous for a player (for example, a big hit game). A second command (for example, a symbol stop designation command) for specifying whether the display result is a specific display result (for example, "big hit") or a non-specific display result (for example, "losing") controlled in a state); And send
The specific information includes at least the first command,
The second control means starts variably displaying special identification information based on the first command (for example, based on a small symbol variation start designation command in step S78 (for example, a command transmitted in step S554 in FIG. 25)). The variable display of the small symbol is started (FIG. 28), and the display result of the variable display of the special identification information is derived and displayed based on the second command (for example, a symbol stop designation command (for example, FIG. 25 in FIG. 25). The display result of the variable display of the small symbol is transmitted based on the command transmitted in step S572) (FIG. 28).
You may do so.

  According to such a configuration, the second control means recovered from the abnormality can recognize the state of the gaming machine. Further, the variable display of the special identification information allows the player to recognize that the variable display is being performed. Such a configuration is also effective when the variable display result of the small symbol or the decorative symbol is determined on the second control means side (particularly, when these data are lost at the time of recovery from the abnormality) ( For example, the first effect control board 12 transmits to the second effect control board 30 a command designating a variable display result (one of “probably variable big hit”, “non-probable variable big hit”, and “outside”), and the second effect control The board 30 determines the combination of the final stopped symbol and the fixed small symbol by lottery or the like based on the command).

  Regarding the above-mentioned symbol stop designation command and final stop symbol designation command, these commands may be used separately for decorative symbols and for small symbols. In this case, the design stop designation command for the decorative symbol need not designate the variable display result. Further, instead of the symbol stop designation command, a final stop symbol designation command may be used. In this case, the variable display result of the small symbol may be a stop symbol specified by the final stop symbol designation command. As described above, the display result (combination of fixed small symbols) of the variable display of small symbols may be the same as the final stop symbol (combination of fixed decorative symbols). For example, when reach is established in a decorative symbol, the same reach is established in synchronization even when a small symbol is variably displayed). Further, the final stop symbol designating command may be three commands of a command for designating a symbol of “left”, a command for designating a symbol of “middle”, and a command for designating a symbol of “right”. Can be many combinations). Note that a combination of fixed small symbols (stop symbol) may be specified by the small symbol change start designation command. Further, a variable display result such as a final stop symbol may be designated by a variable display mode designation command.

  In addition, the combination of the determined small symbols may be different depending on the type of the big hit (for example, “probable big hit” and “non-probable big hit”) (for example, “7” for “probable big hit”, “ For a non-probable jackpot, a combination of "6" etc.). In this case, the effect control unit 31 specifies the combination of the stop symbols, that is, the determined small symbols by, for example, a final stop symbol designation command or the like (ie, at the start of the change) (the combination is held in the SDRAM or the like). The combination of the specified fixed symbols may be derived by receiving a symbol stop designation command or the like. In this case, at the time of resetting, for example, the combination of the determined small symbols is lost. Therefore, similarly to the above-described embodiment, the “big hit” (“2 2 2”) or the “losing” is performed based on the symbol stop designation command. ("1 5 3") may be derived (the reset is performed based on whether the combination of the determined small symbols is stored in storage means such as SDRSAM). If it is not stored, it is naturally reset.)

(4) In the gaming machine according to any one of the above (1) to (3),
The display of an image relating to a game includes a variable display of decoration identification information (for example, a decorative pattern) and special identification information (for example, a small pattern) that is smaller than the decoration identification information and is displayed at a position that is always visible to the player. And a variable display of
The variable display of the special identification information is a variable display for changing a plurality of types of special identification information having different display colors (for example, see a modification).
You may do so.

  For example, when changing the small symbols of the numbers “1” to “9”, the odd numbers are set to red, the even numbers are set to black and the like, and are colored. As a result, since red and blue are displayed alternately, the player recognizes that the small symbol is fluctuating even in the variable display of the small symbol which is displayed small so as not to disturb other effects. Easier (since the colors appear to change in the variable display of small symbols, the change is easy to recognize).

  According to such a configuration, it is possible to easily recognize that the special identification information is being variably displayed. In addition, a plurality of types of special identification information having different display colors include those in which the display color of each type of special identification information is different and those in which the display color is different for each of a plurality of types. Including.

(5) In the gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (4),
The display of an image relating to a game includes a variable display of decoration identification information (for example, a decorative pattern) and special identification information (for example, a small pattern) that is smaller than the decoration identification information and is displayed at a position that is always visible to the player. And a variable display of
The variable display of the special identification information is a variable display in which a plurality of types of special identification information having different sizes are changed (for example, see a modified example).
You may do so.

  For example, when changing the small symbols of the numbers “1” to “9”, one or more symbols such as “7” (or the symbol “2” at the time of the big hit) may be changed more than other symbols. Enlarge. As a result, a large “7” is periodically displayed, and the player can easily recognize that the small symbol is fluctuating (in the variable display of the small symbol, a small symbol having a size different from the others is displayed). Fluctuations are easy to recognize because they are displayed at regular intervals.

  According to such a configuration, it is possible to easily recognize that the special identification information is being variably displayed. In addition, a plurality of types of special identification information having different sizes are those in which the size of each type of special identification information is different, and those in which the size is different for each of a plurality of types. Including.

(6) In the gaming machine according to any one of the above (1) to (5),
When the period during which predetermined communication with the second control unit cannot be performed exceeds a specific period (for example, when a rising signal cannot be received for 10 seconds), the first control unit transmits a specific signal to the second control unit. (For example, a reset signal) is output continuously over a predetermined period (for example, a long reset),
(Detailed description will be given in Configuration 4.)

  According to such a configuration, the second control means can be suitably operated.

(Configuration 3)
(1) A gaming machine (for example, a pachinko gaming machine 1) that executes a variable display (for example, a variable display of a special symbol) and can be controlled to an advantageous state (for example, a jackpot gaming state) advantageous to a player,
First control means (for example, first effect control board 12),
Second control means (for example, VDP of the effect control unit 31) for displaying an image relating to the game on the display means based on the information (for example, the second effect control command) from the first control means,
When the first control means recovers after an abnormality has occurred in the second control means during the advantageous state (for example, when the second control means is reset), the specific information (for example, A right-handed notification start designation command) is output to the second control means (for example, steps S902 to S905 in FIG. 26),
A gaming machine characterized by that:

  The specific information only needs to be information that can specify the advantageous state, and a dedicated command for that purpose may be prepared. In addition, a command output at the time of a big hit (such as a big hit production start designation command) may be used as the specific information (in this case, the command and a command to the effect of resetting are supplied to the second control means, and the second control means May notify that a big hit is in progress based on the command).

  According to such a configuration, the second control means recovered from the abnormality can recognize the state of the gaming machine. For example, if the second control means is frozen or down due to the effect of noise generated from another adjacent gaming machine or an island where the gaming machine is installed, the second control means can be restored, The second control means can recognize the state of the gaming machine.

(2) In the gaming machine of the above (1),
The gaming machine performs a special operation (for example, right-handed) different from the normal state during the advantageous state,
The specific information includes a specific command (for example, a right-handed notification start designation command) for displaying an image indicating that the special operation is performed (for example, an effect image of right-handed notification) as an image related to a game.
You may do so.

  The special operation may be other than right-handed. Any special operation depending on the configuration of the gaming machine (for example, aiming at a predetermined area of the gaming board) may be used.

  According to such a configuration, the state of the gaming machine can be recognized when the second control unit that has recovered from the abnormality recovers. In addition, a special operation can be prompted to the player.

(3) In the gaming machine of (1) or (2),
The display of an image related to a game includes a variable display of decoration identification information (for example, a decoration pattern) and special identification information (for example, a small pattern) that is smaller than the decoration identification information and is displayed at a position that is always visible to the player. And a variable display of
The gaming machine performs a special operation different from a normal state (for example, a non-time saving state) in an advantageous state (for example, a jackpot gaming state) and in a special state (for example, a time reduction state) after the advantageous state. ,
The first control means includes:
A first command for starting variable display of special identification information (for example, a small symbol change start designation command) and a second command for displaying an image indicating that the special operation is to be performed as an image relating to a game (for example, right strike notification start designation) Command) and can be sent,
When the second control means recovers from the abnormality during the advantageous state, only the second command of the first command and the second command is output (for example, step S174),
When the second control unit recovers from the abnormality during the special state, the first command and the second command are output (for example, steps S554 and S556 in FIG. 25).
You may do so.

    According to such a configuration, the second control means recovered from the abnormality can recognize the state of the gaming machine. In addition, a special operation can be prompted to the player. In each state, a suitable command (which may be regarded as a part of the specific information) can be transmitted.

(4) In the gaming machine according to any one of the above (1) to (3),
The gaming machine performs a special operation (for example, right-handed) different from the normal state during the advantageous state,
The specific information includes a specific command for displaying an image indicating that the special operation is to be performed as an image related to a game (for example, a right-handed notification start designation command),
The second control means displays an image indicating that the special operation is to be performed on a part of the display means based on the specific command (for example, FIG. 32).
You may do so.

  According to such a configuration, the second control means recovered from the abnormality can recognize the state of the gaming machine. In addition, a special operation can be prompted to the player. Note that an image indicating that the special operation is to be performed may be displayed on the entire display unit.

(5) In the gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (4),
When the period during which predetermined communication with the second control unit cannot be performed exceeds a specific period (for example, when a rising signal cannot be received for 10 seconds), the first control unit transmits a specific signal to the second control unit. (For example, a reset signal) is output continuously over a predetermined period (for example, a long reset),
(The details will be described in Configuration 3.)

  According to such a configuration, it is possible to easily recognize that variable display is being performed.

(6) The gaming machine according to any of (2) to (4),
There are at least a first route (for example, route L1) and a second route (for example, route L2) as routes through which game media can flow,
In the normal state, it is more advantageous to cause a game medium (for example, a game ball) to flow down in the first path (for example, a game ball can be made to enter the first starting winning opening),
In an advantageous state (for example, a jackpot game state), it is more advantageous to cause the game medium to flow down in the second path (for example, a game ball can enter a special winning opening),
The special operation is an operation for causing the game medium to flow down on the second route (for example, right-handed),
You may do so.

  According to such a configuration, the interest of the game can be improved.

(Configuration 4)
(1) a gaming machine that performs a game (for example, a pachinko gaming machine 1 or the like),
First control means (for example, the first effect control board 12 and the like),
A second control unit (for example, a VDP of the effect control unit 31) capable of communicating with the first control unit,
The first control means, when a period during which predetermined communication with the second control unit is not possible (eg, a period during which a rising signal cannot be received) exceeds a specific period (eg, 10 seconds), the second control unit performs the second control. Supplying a specific signal (for example, a reset signal) to the means continuously for a predetermined period (for example, 60 seconds) (for example, a long reset);
A gaming machine characterized by that:

  The predetermined communication may be bidirectional communication (signal transmission / reception, etc.) in addition to transmission of a signal (information) from one to the other as in the above-described embodiment. For example, the first control means supplies a request signal for requesting transmission of a predetermined signal to the second control means, and the second control means responds to the request signal to the first control means to transmit the predetermined signal (normally). A signal output during operation, etc.) may be transmitted, and the transmission and reception of these signals may be a predetermined communication (a predetermined communication cannot be performed when the predetermined signal is not transmitted).

  The predetermined communication is reception of a rising signal in the above embodiment, but may be reception of a normal operation signal. That is, when a normal operation signal cannot be received, a long reset may be executed. Alternatively, the rising signal may be omitted, and the operation of the second control means (VDP of the effect control unit 31) may be confirmed only by the normal operation signal (for example, it is effective when the rising of the second control means is early). In this case, in this case, a plurality of normal operation signals cannot be received (for example, a case where a normal operation signal cannot be received a predetermined number of times (a plurality of times) or a short reset is performed a predetermined number of times (a plurality of times), etc. ), A long reset may be executed. By performing the long reset when a plurality of normal operation signals cannot be received, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the long reset is erroneously performed due to noise or the like.

  The predetermined communication may be performed, for example, as long as it can be performed when the second control unit is operating normally, and cannot be performed when the second control unit cannot operate. The specific period may be any period.

  The specific signal may be another signal other than the reset signal. The specific signal may be a signal that can stop the operation of the second control means by being continuously supplied. Note that the specific signal may be a high active signal instead of a low active signal. By setting the reset terminal of the DSP to Low for, for example, 60 seconds (for example, measuring 60 seconds with a timer and maintaining the voltage level of the reset terminal at Low for 60 seconds), the specific signal is continuously output for a predetermined period. Supply may be realized. The continuous supply of the specific signal over a predetermined period means that when the specific signal is continuously supplied a plurality of times without an interval (refer to the long reset in FIG. 8), keeping the reset terminal at the Low level for the predetermined period As a result, when a specific signal of a predetermined time width is to be continuously supplied without an interval, or when a specific signal is continuously supplied a plurality of times at an interval (see FIG. Reference).

  The specific signal causes the operation of the second control unit to be stopped in another scene (including a stop state in which the second control unit does not operate at the time of restart, such as when the second control unit does not operate due to a reset), or causes the second control unit to perform a specific operation. In such a predetermined case as described above, by continuously supplying as described above, the operation of the second control means is stopped for a certain period, or the second control means is controlled to perform a specific operation for a certain time. It is good to make it repeat over a period. By continuously supplying the specific signal over a predetermined period, it is possible to cause the second control means to perform a suitable operation required at that time.

  According to the above configuration, it is possible to preferably operate the second control means (for example, it is possible to suitably recover from a thermal runaway or the like).

(2) The first control means supplies the specific signal to the second control means a plurality of times at predetermined intervals (for example, a reset signal having a time width of 1 ms or less is supplied a plurality of times at 1 ms intervals). Such).

  According to such a configuration, the second control means can be suitably operated. Note that such a configuration may be realized by a reset in which a reset signal is intermittently transmitted as shown in FIG. 36 in addition to a long reset as shown in FIG. 8 (operations such as VDP are stopped). It may be transmitted repeatedly at an interval at which the process is continued or at an interval at which the VDP or the like performs only a predetermined process (a process with a small load, for example) and then resets.

(3) The period during which the predetermined communication cannot be performed when the second control unit has run out of heat exceeds the specific period.

  According to such a configuration, the second control means can be suitably operated.

(4) The specific signal is a reset signal.

  According to such a configuration, the second control means can be suitably operated.

  In the predetermined period, a cooling unit (for example, a cooling fan 40 or the like) for cooling the second control unit is further provided.

(5) According to such a configuration, the second control means can be suitably operated. In particular, the second control means can be suitably cooled. Note that the cooling means may be a means for cooling with a coolant such as water. Further, the cooling fan 40 and the like may operate during a period other than the long reset period (the predetermined period). For example, the cooling fan 40 may operate while the pachinko gaming machine 1 is operating.

(6) further comprising a cooling means (for example, a cooling fan 40) for cooling the second control means,
The cooling unit may cool the second control unit more strongly during the predetermined period than during a period other than the predetermined period (for example, FIG. 35).

  For example, the first effect control means (effect control CPU 120) makes it possible to adjust the intensity (rotational speed, etc.) of the blowing of the cooling fan in a plurality of steps (“strong”, “weak”, etc.), At times, the intensity of the air blown by the cooling fan may be maximized (FIG. 35, etc.).

  According to such a configuration, the second control means can be suitably operated.

(7) Variable display means (for example, image display device 5 or the like) for performing variable display;
Adjusting means (for example, the second effect control board 30 or the first effect control board 12 or the like) capable of adjusting the effect setting in accordance with an adjusting operation (for example, volume adjustment or the like) by the player at least during execution of the variable display. ,
Adjustment image display means (for example, the second effect control board 30 or the like) for displaying an adjustment image (for example, a volume image VL) corresponding to the adjustment by the adjustment means for a predetermined period,
The adjustment image display unit sets the adjustment image to be unrecognizable or difficult to view in a period during which the variable display result is derived and displayed in the variable display during the predetermined period (for example, FIG. 37).
You may do so.

  As described above, the effect setting may be adjusted by the player. The effect settings include, for example, the volume of the effect sound and the brightness of the display screen. For example, a detection unit (operation buttons, an infrared sensor, a camera for detecting an operation, or the like) that detects the operation of the player is provided, and the effect setting is adjusted based on the detected operation. For example, a signal indicating the operation detected by the detection unit is transmitted to the second effect control board 30, and the second effect control board 30 (VDP of the effect control unit 31) performs the operation specified by the transmitted signal. Change (adjust) the staging settings accordingly. The second effect control board 30 executes the effect with the current effect setting (if there is a change, the changed effect setting).

  The second effect control board 30 may display the changed effect settings on the screen of the image display device 5 for a predetermined period when the effect settings are changed. For example, a change in the effect setting may be accepted during the execution of the variable display. In this case, an effect setting image corresponding to the changed effect setting is displayed for a predetermined period during the execution of the variable display. However, when the variable display result is derived and displayed within the predetermined period, the effect setting image is made invisible or difficult to view. Thereby, the visibility of the variable display result can be ensured.

  Specifically, when there is an operation of changing the volume (or changing the brightness), the effect control unit 31 displays the volume image VL (the changed volume) corresponding to the changed volume on the screen of the image display device 5. Is displayed (when the luminance is changed, the image indicates the luminance of the degree of change), and is erased after a predetermined period has elapsed (FIGS. 37A to 37C). However, when the variable display result of the variable display of the decorative symbol is derived within the predetermined period, the displayed volume image VL is used to derive the variable display result (the symbol stop designation command is received as the second effect control command). (E.g., when it is done) (FIGS. 37D-37E). Note that the volume image VL may be displayed in a semi-transparent display or reduced display to make it difficult to view. Thereby, the visibility of the variable display result can be ensured. In particular, when the volume image VL is displayed at a position where the volume image VL is superimposed on the variable display result, if the volume image VL is kept displayed, the volume image VL is positioned on the stopped decorative symbol, and the stopped decorative symbol (variable Display result) is impaired. However, the visibility can be ensured by hiding, semi-transmitting, or reducing the volume image VL.

  In addition, when the variable display of the small symbol is displayed without displaying the variable display of the decorative symbol after the reset (the state of FIG. 31C. For example, the VDP of the effect control unit 31 is in a variable display mode). When a small symbol change start designation command is received without receiving a designation command, etc., it can be determined that the current state is the state concerned), and when an operation of volume change (or brightness change) is performed, the operation is performed. It may not be accepted, may change the volume or the like in response to the operation, but may not display the volume image VL, or may change the volume or the like as usual without imposing these prohibitions and change the volume image VL. It may be displayed. When the above-described prohibition is applied, the possibility that the operation of the second effect control board 30 is stabilized increases. On the other hand, when the prohibition is not applied, the preference of the player is satisfied. Note that when the variable display of the small symbol is displayed without displaying the variable display of the decorative symbol and the derivation timing of the variable display result arrives during the display of the volume image VL, the above-described “ The process of “erasing the volume image VL when deriving the variable display result” need not be performed (that is, the volume image VL may be continuously displayed at this time). Thereby, the display time of the volume image VL can be secured.

  For example, a signal indicating the operation detected by the detection unit is transmitted to the first effect control board 12, and the second effect control board 12 changes (adjusts) the effect setting according to the operation specified by the transmitted signal. ) Is transmitted to the second effect control board 30, and the second effect control board 30 (VDP of the effect control unit 31) changes the effect setting based on the transmitted command, and the current effect setting (change is performed). If there is, the effect is executed with the changed effect setting). In addition, the first effect control board 12 controls the display of the volume image VL by transmitting a command for instructing display start and display end of the volume image VL to the second effect control board 30 (for example, a symbol confirmation designation command). 37 (D) to (E) are realized by transmitting a command instructing the end of the display of the volume image VL in response to the reception of the command.

  Similarly to the above, when the variable display of the small symbol is displayed without displaying the variable display of the decorative symbol after the reset (the state of FIG. 31C. Since the first effect control board 12 performs the reset and the like, the state of FIG. 31C). When the first effect control board 12 has an operation of changing the volume (or the brightness may be changed) before the first effect control board 12 can grasp this state, the first effect control board 12 may not need to accept the operation. In response to the operation, the volume or the like may be changed, but the volume image VL may not be displayed (for example, a command for changing (adjusting) the effect setting may be transmitted, but the display of the volume image VL is started. For example, the command may not be transmitted), and the command may be output so as to display the volume image VL by changing the volume and the like as usual without imposing these prohibitions. When the above-described prohibition is applied, the possibility that the operation of the second effect control board 30 is stabilized increases. On the other hand, when the prohibition is not applied, the preference of the player is satisfied. Note that when the variable display of the small symbol is displayed without displaying the variable display of the decorative symbol, and the derivation timing of the variable display result arrives during the display of the volume image VL, the volume image is displayed. The volume image VL may be continuously displayed without transmitting the command instructing the end of the display of the VL. Thereby, the display time of the volume image VL can be secured.

  Note that when the temporary stop mode is set by the pseudo-run or the like, the volume image VL or the like may be deleted even during the original display period.

  According to such a configuration, it is possible to reduce a decrease in recognizability of the variable display result.

(8) As a modification,
The first control means transmits a command (for example, a first effect control command or the like),
The second control means receives a command transmitted by the first control means, performs control according to the received command,
The first control means can transmit the command to be transmitted with predetermined information (for example, a checksum or the like) for confirming the consistency of the command to be transmitted,
The second control means can determine, based on the predetermined information, consistency of a command accompanied by the predetermined information,
The first control means transmits the specific information only to a part of specific commands (for example, a game state designation command or the like) among a plurality of types of transmittable commands,
You may do so.

  According to this configuration, for example, the processing load on the first control unit and the second control unit can be reduced as compared with when the predetermined information is added to all commands.

  The first effect control board 12 may output the first effect control command as it is as the second effect control command to the second effect control board 30 (for example, a customer waiting demonstration designation command, a right-handed start designation) Commands). In this case, the second effect control command may be generated and output using the first effect control command as a header and the data managed by the second effect control board 30 as a footer (FIG. 34). The background to be displayed may be determined by lottery based on the game state (game state designation command) and the background type (the second effect control board 30 is determined by lottery). In this case, as shown in FIG. 35, it is preferable to output a second effect control command using the game state designation command as a header and the background type as a footer. Note that the second effect control board 30 may determine the background only in the game state, and in this case, the footer is unnecessary.

(Modification)
The present invention is not limited to the above embodiment and the like, and various modifications and applications are possible. 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)
The VDP may be naturally cooled without providing the cooling fan 40 or operating the cooling fan even during the long reset.

(Modification 2)
An appropriate time width of the reset signal can be adopted. Further, the VDP of the effect control unit 31 may be reset first by supplying a reset signal (short reset) immediately after turning on the power to the pachinko gaming machine 1. During the long reset, the first effect control board 12 may execute necessary processing as needed in parallel with the long reset processing.

(Modification 3)
The second effect control board 30 may determine whether or not to perform the effect by lottery. In this case, the first effect control board 12 notifies the contents of the first effect control command from the main board 11 to the second effect control board 30 (for example, the second effect control command is used. The first effect control command is directly used). It may be transmitted as a second effect control command.)

(Modification 4)
The control of the image of the image display device 5 may be performed by the second effect control board 30, and the control of the speakers 8L and 8R and / or the game effect lamp 9 may be performed by the first effect control board 12.

(Modification 5)
Instead of the special figure reserved storage number addition designation command and the special figure reserved storage number subtraction designation command, a command for designating the special figure reserved storage number may be prepared. In this case, based on the command, the first effect control board 12 may manage the increase / decrease of the number of storages to be held by a counter or the like.

(Modification 6)
In the above-described embodiment, the right boarding command is output from the main board 11, but the command may be eliminated and the first effect control board 12 may determine whether there is right-handed reporting. For example, the presence or absence of the transmission of the right-handed notification start designation command or the right-handed notification end designation command may be determined according to the state of the high base flag, whether or not the big hit middle production is being performed.

(Modification 7)
Note that when the short reset processing in steps S713 and S720 is performed a predetermined number of times (arbitrary number of times equal to or more than two times) within a predetermined period, it may be notified that the second control means is abnormal. For example, in the first effect control board 12, when the process of step S720 is performed a predetermined number of times (an arbitrary number of times equal to or more than two) without interposing the process of step S717, the effect of the second effect control board 30 is abnormal. (Notification by sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R and / or the lighting mode of the game effect lamp 9). For example, a counter is provided which counts each time step S720 is executed, and a counter which resets the count value when step S717 is executed is provided, and a notification is made when the counter reaches a predetermined value. When the first effect control board 12 executes the short reset process, the elapsed time from the execution timing of the short reset process is measured using a predetermined timer, and the elapsed time from when the measured elapsed time reaches the predetermined period is measured. The number of executions of the subsequent short reset processing is counted, and when the number of executions reaches a predetermined number, a notification that the second effect control board 30 is abnormal (audio output from the speakers 8L and 8R). (E.g., output of an alarm sound) and / or notification by the lighting mode (flashing, etc.) of the game effect lamp 9 (at this time, the measurement of the elapsed time is performed each time each short reset process is performed). Alternatively, the number of times the short reset process is executed may be counted for each elapsed time.

  In addition to the above configuration, the first effect control board 12 detects, for example, an abnormality of the second effect control board 30 a predetermined number of times within a predetermined period (there is no reception of a command reception signal, no reception of a normal operation signal). , Etc.), and notification of abnormality (notification by voice output or the like) may be performed. In addition, after the power of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is turned on, the abnormality may be notified when the number of times of the abnormality detection reaches a predetermined number.

  Further, the notification mode of the abnormality in each short reset processing may be different from the notification mode when the number of times of the short reset processing reaches a predetermined number. Further, the notification of the abnormality may be performed only when the number of times of the short reset processing reaches a predetermined number without reporting the abnormality in each short reset processing.

(Modification 8)
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.

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 prize ball device 6B ... Ordinary variable prize ball device 7 ... Special variable prize ball device 8L 8R: Speaker 9: Game effect lamp 11: Main board 12: First effect control board 13: Voice control board 14: Lamp control board 15: Relay board 20: Normal symbol display 21: Gate switch 22A, 22B: Start switch 23 ... count switch 30 ... 2nd effect control board 31 ... effect control unit 100 ... microcomputers 101 and 121 for game control ... ROM
102, 122 ... RAM
103 ... CPU
104 ... random number circuits 105, 125 ... I / O
120… effect control CPU

Claims (2)

A gaming machine capable of performing variable display of special identification information and performing variable display of decoration identification information and variable display of special identification information smaller than the decoration identification information in response to the variable display of special identification information. And
First control means;
A second control unit communicable with the first control unit, and displaying an image related to a game on a display unit based on information from the first control unit,
The second control means, as the display of the image relating to the game, the display of the variable display of the decorative identification information and the variable display of the special identification information can be executed in parallel by the display means,
The first control means includes:
Outputting a reset signal for resetting the second control means to the second control means based on a communication state with the second control means;
When the second control means is reset by the reset signal and is restored during a period in which the variable display of the special identification information is not executed, the first specific information capable of specifying the state of the gaming machine is output to the second control means. And
When the second control means is reset by the reset signal and restored during the variable display of the special identification information, the second control information is provided to the second control means so as to specify that the special identification information is being variably displayed. Output,
The second identification information includes information for executing variable display of special identification information,
A gaming machine characterized by that: The first control unit supplies the reset signal over a first period based on a communication state with the second control unit;
The communication that can be performed by the first control unit and the second control unit includes a specific communication after the reset signal is supplied over the first period and the second control unit is reset. And
A period in which the specific communication cannot be performed due to the second control unit becoming abnormal due to heat generation exceeds a specific period,
The first control unit is configured to supply the reset signal over a second period longer than the first period when the period during which the specific communication cannot be performed exceeds the specific period, thereby operating the second control unit. Is stopped for the second period,
At least in the second period, further comprising a cooling unit for cooling the second control unit,
The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein:

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