JP6649291B2 - Gaming machine - Google Patents

Description

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

  Patent Literature 1 discloses a game that displays a menu screen (in Patent Literature 1, a screen shown in FIG. 7D) that presents a plurality of effect setting categories each including one or more effect settings when changing effect settings. Machine is disclosed.

JP 2014-144108 A

  In the gaming machine described in Patent Literature 1, it is conceivable that the burden on the player for effect setting is increased.

  SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine in which the burden on a player for effect setting is small.

(A) game machine according to the present invention for achieving the above object, a possible change rendering setup by the operation of the player, a controllable gaming machine Advantageously advantageous state for the player, the presentation when changing the setting, and display means for displaying a menu screen for a plurality presenting rendering setup category comprising one or more of the rendering setup, a variable display execution means for executing the variable display of the identification information by said display means, said rendering setup setting status display means capable of displaying on the display means the setting status of, and a notification unit for notifying change of the rendering setup is always possible, the rendering setup category by the operation of the player the rendering setup is configured to be initialized for each, the menu screen, the rendering setup included in the rendering setup category in which a plurality presented when selected by the operation of the player in bulk The initialization item to be initialized is presented together with the effect setting category, and as the effect setting that can be changed by the operation of the player, the first effect setting that can be changed when the menu screen is displayed; A second effect setting changeable irrespective of whether the second effect setting is displayed or not, wherein the setting status display means displays a setting status of the second effect setting at a position overlapping with the identification information being variably displayed for a predetermined period of time. When the variable display of the identification information is completed within the predetermined period and the variable display result is displayed , the setting state of the second effect setting is deleted, and the degree of expectation controlled to the advantageous state is erased . With the execution of the high special effect, the setting status of the second effect setting is erased, and the setting status of the second effect setting is displayed by the operation of the player during the execution of the special effect until a predetermined condition is satisfied. Possible, characterized in that.
(1) Another gaming machine for achieving the above object is a gaming machine (for example, a pachinko gaming machine 1 or the like) that can change the effect setting (for example, the effect setting during variable display) by the operation of the player. When changing the effect setting, a plurality of effect setting categories (eg, “background customization”, “game customization”, etc.) each including one or more effect settings (eg, variable display effect setting, etc.) And the like, and display means for displaying a menu screen (for example, the parent menu screen of FIG. 24C or FIG. 32) for initializing the effect setting for each of the plurality of effect setting categories according to the operation of the player. (For example, the selection and confirmation of “RESET” on the child menu screen of FIGS. 25 to 27 and the selection of “RESET1” and “RESET2” on the parent menu screen of FIG. 32). Confirmation, etc.), and the menu screen displays an initialization item for collectively initializing the effect settings included in each of the plurality of effect setting categories when selected by the action of the player (for example, the parent item in FIG. 24C). “RESET” of the menu screen, “ALL RESET” of the parent menu screen of FIG. 32, etc.) are presented together with the plurality of effect setting categories (for example, see the parent menu screen of FIG. 24 (C) and FIG. 32), It is characterized by the following.

  According to this configuration, it is possible to reduce the burden on the player regarding the effect setting.

(2) In the gaming machine of the above (1),
The effect settings that can be changed by the operation of the player include a first effect setting (for example, an effect setting during variable display) that is changed when the menu screen is displayed, and whether or not the menu screen is displayed. A second effect setting (for example, volume setting) that can be changed regardless of the
You may do so.

  According to this configuration, the second effect setting can be easily changed.

(3) In the gaming machine of (2) above,
When the initialization item is selected, the first effect setting is initialized, and the second effect setting is not initialized (for example, see FIG. 17).
You may do so.

  According to this configuration, it is possible to prevent initialization up to the second effect setting.

(4) In the gaming machine according to any one of the above (1) to (3),
At least one of the effect setting categories includes an effect setting related to the execution frequency of the effect (for example, an ON setting of “Premier Up”).
You may do so.

  According to this configuration, the effect is executed at a frequency according to the preference of the player, and the interest of the game can be improved.

(5) In the gaming machine according to any one of the above (1) to (4),
When changing the effect setting, the setting status of the effect setting (for example, volume image VL or the like) can be displayed,
In the first state (for example, a state where a super-reach or a jackpot effect is not performed), the setting status is displayed so as to be visible regardless of the player's operation,
In a second state (for example, a state in which a super-reach or an effect during a big hit is performed) which is a state different from the first state and executes a specific effect (for example, a super-reach or a large hit effect). The setting status is determined to be difficult or invisible (see, for example, FIGS. 28 and 35), and the setting status is changed based on the operation of the player until a predetermined condition (for example, a predetermined period elapses) is satisfied. Can be displayed (see, for example, FIG. 29).
You may do so.

  According to this configuration, it is possible to display the setting status of the effect setting according to the request of the player while suppressing the effect of the effect of the specific effect, thereby improving the interest of the game.

It is a front view of the pachinko gaming machine in this embodiment. It is a block diagram showing various control boards and the like mounted on the pachinko gaming machine. It is an example of an effect control command transmitted from the main board to the effect control board. It is a flow chart which shows an example of special design process processing. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a start winning determination process. It is a figure showing composition of a special figure reservation storage part. 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. 9 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a fluctuation pattern. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of determination of the fluctuation pattern at the time of a big hit. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of determination of the fluctuation pattern at the time of loss. It is a figure showing the contents of processing performed in command analysis processing. It is a flowchart which shows an example of effect control process processing. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a volume display process. 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 demonstration execution process. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a relationship between a menu screen when “RESET” selection is confirmed and an initialization target. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a variable display start setting process. It is a flow chart which shows an example of production execution decision processing. It is a figure which shows the example of execution determination of a premium effect. It is a figure which shows the example of execution determination of a pattern effect. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the effect processing during variable display. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a temporary display process. It is an example of an effect screen during demonstration display. It is an example of an effect screen during demonstration display. It is an example of an effect screen during demonstration display. It is an example of an effect screen during demonstration display. It is a figure showing an example of a production screen in the case of no volume button operation during super reach. It is a figure which shows the example of an effect screen in case there is a volume button operation during super reach. It is a figure which shows the example of a display period of a volume image. It is a figure which shows the example of a display period of a volume image. It is a figure showing other examples of a parent menu screen. It is a figure showing other examples of a production screen. It is a figure showing other examples of an effect screen, etc. It is a figure showing other examples of a production screen. It is a figure showing other examples of a production screen. It is a figure showing other examples of a production screen.

(Configuration of pachinko gaming machine 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention)
FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment, showing an arrangement layout of main members. The pachinko gaming machine (gaming machine) 1 is roughly divided into a gaming board (gauge board) 2 constituting a gaming board surface, and a gaming machine frame (base frame) 3 for supporting and fixing the gaming board 2. 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.

  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 special display (also called a special figure) as a plurality of types of special identification information is variably displayed (also called a special figure game). , A first special symbol display device 4A and a second special symbol display device 4B are provided. 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.

  Note that the variable display of the special symbol means 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 stopped (also referred to as a derived display) as a display result (variable display result) (the same applies to other variable displays described later).

  Hereinafter, a special symbol variably displayed on the first special symbol display device 4A is also referred to as a “first special symbol”, and a special symbol variably displayed on the second special symbol display device 4B is referred to as a “second special symbol”. Also called. Further, the special map game of the first special map is referred to as “first special map game”, and the special map game of the second special map is also referred to as “second special map game”.

  An image display device 5 is provided near the center of the game area on the game board 2. The image display device 5 includes, for example, an LCD (liquid crystal display device), and forms a display area for displaying various effect images.

  On the screen of the image display device 5, in synchronization with the first special figure game and the second special figure game, a decoration pattern (a pattern showing a number or the like) as a plurality of types of decoration identification information different from the special pattern can be changed. Display is performed. As an example, on the screen of the image display device 5, in synchronization with the first special figure game or the second special figure game, each of the decorative pattern display areas 5L, 5C, 5R of "left", "middle", and "right" is displayed. In, variable display (for example, vertical scroll display or update display) of a decorative symbol is performed.

  On the screen of the image display device 5, display areas 5HL and 5HR are arranged. In the display area 5HL, a first suspended display image (here, a circle image) corresponding to the first special figure game whose execution is suspended is displayed. In the display area 5HR, a second suspended display image (here, a circle image) corresponding to the second special figure game whose execution is suspended is displayed. 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 first special figure reserved storages is indicated by the number of first reserved display images, and the second special figure reserved storage number is indicated by the number of second reserved display images.

  Note that the image display device 5 displays various effect images and the like, and in this embodiment, particularly, displays a demonstration screen (see FIG. 24 and the like), and also displays a volume image VL indicating the current volume. Is also displayed.

  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, a normal winning ball device 6A and a normal variable winning ball device 6B are provided.

  The normal winning prize ball device 6A forms a first starting winning 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 (in this case, a predetermined number (for example, three pieces) ) Is paid out, and the first special map game can be started.)

  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). And a second starting winning opening. In the normal variable winning prize ball device 6B, for example, when the movable wing piece is in the vertical position when the solenoid 81 is in the off state, the tip of the movable wing piece approaches the normal winning prize ball device 6A, and the second starting prize. The game ball enters a closed state in which the game ball does not enter the mouth (also referred to as a closed state of the second start winning port). 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 the 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 (in this case, a predetermined number (for example, three pieces) ) Is paid out and the second special map game can be started.)

  A special variable winning ball device 7 is provided below the normal winning ball device 6A and the normal variable winning ball device 6B. The special variable winning ball device 7 includes a special winning opening door that is driven to be opened and closed by a solenoid 82 (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 performs variable display of normal symbols (also referred to as “normal symbols” or “normal symbols”) as a plurality of types of ordinary identification information different from special symbols. Do. Such a variable display of a normal symbol is also called an ordinary symbol game (also referred to as “ordinary symbol game”).

  The general-purpose game is executed based on the fact that the game ball has passed through the passage gate 41. 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.

  Loudspeakers 8L and 8R for reproducing and outputting sound effects and the like are provided at upper left and right positions of the gaming machine frame 3, and a gaming effect lamp 9 for a gaming effect is provided around the gaming area. ing. 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.

  A stick controller 31A is attached to a member forming the lower plate so that the player can hold and tilt the stick. The stick controller 31A includes a vibration unit (not shown) therein. The vibration of the vibration unit is transmitted to the player holding the stick controller 31A via the stick controller 31A. A controller sensor unit 35A including a tilt direction sensor unit for detecting a tilt operation (operation) with respect to the operation rod and various circuits for vibrating the vibration unit are provided in a lower portion of the lower portion of the stick controller 31A inside the main body of the lower plate. (See FIG. 2).

  The member forming the upper plate includes, for example, a push at a predetermined position on the near side of the upper surface of the upper plate main body (for example, above the stick controller 31A) or the like so that the player can perform a predetermined instruction operation (operation) by a pressing operation or the like. A button 31B is provided. The push button 31B may be configured to be able to mechanically, electrically, or electromagnetically detect a predetermined instruction operation such as a pressing operation from a player. In addition, a push sensor 35B (see FIG. 2) that detects an operation on the push button 31B is also provided corresponding to the push button 31B.

  At the lower left position of the gaming machine frame 3, a volume button 31C for changing the volume of effect sounds (including sound effects, BGM, songs, etc.) output at the time of executing the effect is provided. In addition, a volume button sensor 35C (see FIG. 2) for detecting an operation on the volume button 31C is also provided corresponding to the volume button 31C.

  In the pachinko gaming machine 1, for example, a main board 11, an effect control board 12, an audio control board 13, a lamp control board 14, a relay board 15, 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 transmits a production control command to the production control board 12 for controlling the progress of a game (execution of a special figure game, a general-purpose game, etc.) in the pachinko gaming machine 1. Including the function of performing 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 mounted on the main board 11 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 and an input / output port (I / O) 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 (data such as fluctuation patterns and various decision tables) stored in the ROM 101 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. The gaming random number may be updated by the CPU 103 executing a predetermined computer program (updated by software).

  The I / O 105 includes, for example, an input port to which various signals are input and an output port for transmitting various signals.

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

  The effect control board 12 is a sub-side control board independent of the main board 11, receives the effect control commands transmitted from the main board 11 via the relay board 15, and performs various operations based on the received effect control commands. (Including variable display of decorative symbols).

  The effect control board 12 includes an effect control CPU 120, a ROM 121, a RAM 122, a display control unit 123, a random number circuit 124, and an I / O 125.

  As an example, the effect control CPU 120 executes the program stored in the ROM 121 to realize the function of the effect control board 12 (execution of the effect). At this time, various data (data used for effect control patterns and data such as various decision tables) stored in the ROM 121 are used, and the RAM 122 is used as a main memory.

  The display control unit 123 outputs a video signal of an effect image to be displayed on the image display device 5 based on a display control command from the effect control CPU 120, and displays the effect image on the image display device 5. As an example, the display control unit 123 may include a VDP (Video Display Processor), a CGROM (Character Generator ROM), a VRAM (Video RAM), or the like.

  The random number circuit 124 counts, in an updatable manner, numerical data indicating various random numbers (production random numbers) used when controlling the production operation. The effect random number may be updated (updated by software) by the effect control CPU 120 executing a predetermined computer program.

  The I / O 125 mounted on the effect control board 12 includes, for example, an input port for capturing an effect control command transmitted from the main board 11 or the like, and an output port for transmitting various signals.

  The sound control board 13 has a function of outputting sound (sound specified by the sound effect signal) from the speakers 8L and 8R based on the sound effect signal from the effect control board 12.

  The lamp control board 14 has a function of turning on / off the game effect lamp 9 (turning on / off according to the driving content indicated by the illuminated signal) based on the illuminated signal from the effect control board 12.

  The image display device 5 includes a display panel including a liquid crystal panel, an EL panel, and the like, a driver circuit for driving the display panel, and the like. The video signal supplied from the display control unit 123 to the image display device 5 via the I / O 125 is input to the driver circuit. The driver circuit causes the display panel to display an image represented by the video signal. As a result, various effect images and the like are displayed on the image display device 5.

  The controller sensor unit 35A detects a player's operation (tilting operation) on the stick controller 31A, and supplies an operation detection signal corresponding to the detected operation to the effect control board 12. When a control signal is supplied from the effect control board 12 (effect control CPU 120), the controller sensor unit 35A vibrates the vibration unit in the stick controller 31A.

  The push sensor 35B detects an operation (press operation) of the player with respect to the push button 31B, and supplies an operation detection signal indicating the detected operation to the effect control board 12.

  The volume button sensor 35C detects a player's operation (an operation of pressing one of the two buttons) on the volume button 31C, and supplies an operation detection signal indicating the detected operation to the effect control board 12.

(Progress of game and production)
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.

  When a game ball that has flowed down the game area passes through the passage gate 41, an ordinary figure game (variable display of ordinary symbols) is started. Note that when a general-purpose game cannot be started, such as when another general-purpose game is already being executed or during the opening control described below, the execution of the general-purpose game is suspended with an upper limit of four games. The suspended general-purpose game is started when it becomes possible to start.

  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”.

  In the case of "per-figure", an opening control is performed in which the movable wing of the normally variable winning prize ball device 6B is tilted for a predetermined period (the second starting winning opening is in an open state).

  When the game ball that has flowed down the game area enters the first start winning opening formed in the normal winning ball device 6A, the first special figure game is started. Further, when the game ball enters the second starting winning opening formed in the ordinary variable winning 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 the big hit game state described later is controlled, four or the like are used. The execution of the special map game is suspended with the upper limit. The suspended special map game is executed when the start condition is satisfied.

  The variable display results stopped and displayed in the special figure game include a big hit symbol (for example, a special figure such as “3” and “7”) and a lost symbol (for example, a special figure such as “−”). . 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 one of a timing when a predetermined period (for example, 29 seconds) elapses and a timing when a predetermined number (for example, 9) of game balls enters the large winning opening and a winning ball is generated. Continued until early. 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).

  In the “big hit”, big hit types of “non-probable change” and “probable change” are set. When the jackpot type is “non-probable change”, the jackpot symbol “3” is stopped and displayed. When the jackpot type is “probable change”, the jackpot symbol “7” is stopped and displayed.

  When the jackpot type is “probable change”, the “big hit” may be called “probable change”, and when the jackpot type is “non-probable”, the “big hit” may be called “non-probable change”. In addition, a jackpot game state based on a “probably variable jackpot” may be referred to as a “probably variable jackpot game state”. In addition, a jackpot game state based on the “non-probable variable jackpot” may be called a “non-probable variable jackpot game state”.

  After the probable change big hit game state is ended, the variable display result is controlled to a probable change state in which the probability (big hit probability) of being a "big hit" is higher than the normal state. The certain change state is continued until the next big hit game state is started. The probable change state is a game state advantageous to the player.

  After the probable variable jackpot game state or the non-probable variable jackpot game state is completed, the average variable display time (variable display period) is controlled to a time reduction state in which the average variable display time is shorter than the normal state. In the time-saving state, either one of the end condition of the predetermined number (100 times in this embodiment) of the special figure game and the start of the next big hit game state is satisfied first. Continue until you do. The time reduction state is a gaming state that is advantageous for the player.

  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 be a "big hit" is reduced, and the gaming state is more advantageous for the player than the normal state.

  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 probability of a “hit” and the probability of a variable display result in the special figure game being a “big hit” depend on the initial setting state of the pachinko gaming machine 1 (for example, a predetermined return process after power-on, such as when a system reset is performed). Is not executed).

  The time reduction state is also referred to as “high base”, and the gaming state that is not the time reduction state is also referred to as “low base”, “non-time reduction state”, and the like. 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”, “non-probability”, and the like. The gaming state in the probable change state and the time saving state is also referred to as “highly accurate high base”. The game state when the game state is in the probable change state but not in the time saving state is also referred to as “highly accurate low base”. The game state when the game is not in the probable state but is in the time saving state is also referred to as “low probable high base”. The normal state is also called “low-probability low-base”.

  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. (Combination of two decorative symbols) is stopped (derived display).

  During the period from the start to the end of the variable display of the decorative symbol, the variable display mode of the decorative symbol may be a predetermined reach mode (reach is established). Here, the reach mode refers to a decorative symbol that has not been stopped and displayed yet when the decorative symbol stopped and displayed on the screen of the image display device 5 constitutes a part of a jackpot combination described below (“reach variation”). ) Is a display mode or the like in which the fluctuation is continued.

  In this embodiment, a reach effect is executed in response to the reach mode being set during variable display. As the reach effect, a normal reach, a super reach A (developing from the normal reach), and a super reach B (developing from the normal reach) having different effect modes are prepared. In this embodiment, the jackpot expectation is higher in the order of super reach B> super reach A> normal reach (normal reach that does not develop into super reach).

  The big hit expectation is, for example, a ratio at which the variable display result of the special figure game is “big hit”, and here, is also a ratio at which the display result of the variable display of the decorative pattern is “big hit”.

  In this embodiment, a premium effect, a pattern effect, and the like are executed during execution of the variable display of the decorative symbol. The premiere production is a special super-reach reach production performed in place of super-reach B at the time of "big hit". That is, when the premium effect is executed, the big hit is determined. In addition, the pattern effect is a notice effect that informs that the expectation of a big hit is high by changing the pattern of the decorative pattern from a normal (for example, plain) pattern to an arabesque pattern or a cherry tree pattern. Also, cherry blossoms have higher jackpot expectations.)

  When the variable display result of the special figure game is “big hit”, a fixed decoration pattern that is a predetermined big hit combination is derived and displayed on the screen of the image display device 5 as the display result of the variable display of the decoration symbol. (The display result of the variable display of the decorative pattern is "big hit"). As an example, the same decorative symbol (for example, “7” when the probability variable hits, “non-probable variable hit”) on a predetermined effective line in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R. At the time of "6") is stopped and displayed.

  When the variable display result is "losing", the variable decorative mode of the decorative symbol does not become the reach mode, and the fixed decorative symbol of the non-reach combination is stopped and displayed as the display result of the variable display of the decorative symbol. There is. Further, when the variable display result is “losing”, after the decorative symbol variable display mode becomes the reach mode, the display result of the decorative symbol variable display is a predetermined reach combination other than the jackpot combination (“reach-losing combination”). ") May be stopped and displayed.

  When the special figure game is not executed, a demonstration effect (also referred to as a demo display) is executed. In the demonstration effect, a demonstration screen is displayed on the image display device 5 in addition to the output of the effect sound (see FIG. 24 and the like). As will be described in detail later, the demo screen includes a menu screen (parent menu screen and child menu screen) for changing the effect setting, in addition to the normal demo screen (FIGS. 24A and 24B). ) Etc. (FIG. 24 (C), FIG. 25-FIG. 27). The effect setting is not limited to the effect setting performed during the variable display of the decorative symbol (also referred to as effect setting during variable display) and the effect at the time of effect execution (the effect performed during the variable display). (Including a performance during a big hit, etc.). There are a plurality of variable display effect settings, which are classified by category (one category may be one variable display effect setting). The category is also referred to as a setting category (“background customization”, “game property customization”, and “BGM customization” in FIG. 24C). The effect setting during variable display can be individually changed by operating the push button 31B, the stick controller 31A, and the like, and is changed from the menu screen (FIGS. 24 to 27 and the like). The volume setting (also simply referred to as volume) can always be changed by operating the volume button 31C.

  The current volume is indicated by a volume image VL (such as FIG. 1). The volume image VL is basically always displayed, and is not displayed during execution of super reach (FIGS. 24 to 28, FIG. 30 (A), etc.). However, even if the volume image VL is not displayed due to the execution of the super reach, when the volume button 31C is operated (operation for changing the volume), the volume changed by the operation (the volume is set to the maximum Alternatively, the volume image VL is displayed for a predetermined period (here, 3 seconds) in order to notify the user of the operation of raising or lowering the volume when the volume is at the minimum or the maximum or minimum volume. 30 (B)). When the super reach is started immediately after the operation on the volume button 31C, the display period of the volume image VL is secured for a predetermined period from the operation timing of the volume button 31C (FIG. 31A). The volume image VL may be displayed for a predetermined period from the super-reach start timing (FIG. 31B). Further, when the volume button 31C is operated immediately before the end of the super reach (the timing at which the super reach ends within the above-mentioned predetermined period), the display of the volume image VL is continued without interruption from the operation. (FIG. 31 (C)). Details of the volume control will be described later.

(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)
On the main board 11, the CPU 103 executes a game control timer interrupt process. The timer interrupt processing for game control is performed every 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) (a predetermined time, which is the supply interval of the interrupt request signal). (Every 2 ms). 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 a hold or execution of a special figure game, a jackpot game state, and the like based on a 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.) In the special symbol process processing, the transmission setting of the 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 effect control command transmitted and set by the special symbol process process from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12.

(Effect control commands sent and set in special symbol processing)
Next, a description will be given of an effect control command set to be transmitted in the special symbol process and transmitted from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12 in the command control process. FIG. 3 shows examples of main effect control commands. Note that the following “(H)” indicates a hexadecimal number.

  The command 81XX (H) designates a special figure game to be started and its variation pattern (specifying a variable display execution time (variable display variation time) and a variable display pattern of a decorative symbol, see FIG. 5) (notification ) Is a variation pattern designating command. In “XX” (EXT data), a numerical value is set in accordance with whether the starting special figure game is the first special figure game or the second special figure game, and the variation pattern thereof (for example, the first special figure game). "00" if the fluctuation pattern is PA1-1 at the start of the special figure game, and "01" if the fluctuation pattern is PA1-1 at the start of the second special figure game. The command is transmitted at the start of the special figure game (at the start of the fluctuation). Note that an effect control command for individually designating the start of the first special figure game and the start of the second special figure game may be separately prepared. In this case, a numerical value common to the first special figure game and the second special figure game may be set to “XX” according to the fluctuation pattern.

  The command 8CXX (H) is a display result designation command for designating (notifying) a variable display result of the special figure game to be started. In “XX”, a numerical value corresponding to the variable display result is set (for example, “00” for “losing”, “01” for “non-probable variable hit”, “02” for “probable variable big hit”). The command is transmitted at the start of the special map game.

  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). This command is transmitted at the end of the special figure game.

  The command A000 (H) is a hit start designation command for designating (notifying) the start of the big hit game state (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 is transmitted at the start of the big hit gaming state.

  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, and is an effect for notifying that the big hit gaming state is ended. The command is transmitted at the end of the last round game.

  The command B100 (H) is a first start winning designation command for designating (notifying) that a first start winning based on a game ball having entered the first start winning opening has occurred. The command B200 (H) is a second start winning designation command for designating (notifying) that the second start winning based on the game ball entering the second start winning opening has occurred. These commands may be collectively referred to as start winning designation commands. This command is transmitted when a start winning is generated.

  The command C000 (H) is a first special figure reserved storage number addition designation command for designating (notifying) that the first special figure reserved storage number increases by one. C100 (H) is a second special figure reserved storage number addition designation command for designating (notifying) that the second special figure reserved storage number increases by one. These commands may be collectively referred to as a special figure reserved storage number addition designation command. This command is transmitted when a start winning prize occurs (when the number of holdings increases).

  The command C200 (H) is a first special figure reserved storage number subtraction designation command for designating (notifying) that the first special figure reserved storage number is reduced by one. The command C300 (H) is a second special figure reserved storage number subtraction designation command for designating (notifying) that the second special figure reserved storage number is reduced by one. These commands may be collectively referred to as a special figure reserved storage number subtraction designation command. This command is transmitted at the time of starting the special figure game (when the number of holds is reduced).

  The command D000 (H) is a demonstration display start designation command for designating (notifying) the start of demonstration display (demonstration effect). This command is issued when both the first special figure reserved storage number and the second special figure reserved storage number are “0” and there is no occurrence of the first start prize or the second start prize (demo display setting). Sent.

(Special design process)
FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the special symbol process process. In this special symbol process process, the CPU 103 first executes a start winning determination process (step S101). 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. 5 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). When the first special figure pending storage number is not the upper limit value in step S202 (step S202; No), the starting port buffer value which is the storage value of the starting port buffer provided in the RAM 102 is set to "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 the storage value of the second reserved figure counter (counter for counting the first special figure reserved number) provided in the RAM 102, for example, to calculate the second special figure reserved storage number. (Hereinafter, the same applies to the second special figure reserved storage number). When the second special figure reserved storage number is not the upper limit value in step S205 (step S205; No), the starting port buffer value is set to “2” (step S206).

  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. In this way, the first reserved storage number count value is increased (incremented) by one when the game ball passes (enters) the first start winning port and the first start condition corresponding to the first special figure game is satisfied. Will be updated as follows. In addition, the second reserved storage number count value is increased (incremented) by one when the game ball passes (enters) the second start winning opening and the second start condition corresponding to the second special figure game is satisfied. Will be updated as follows. In this way, when the first start condition is satisfied (when the first start prize is generated), the first special figure reserved storage number is updated so as to increase by 1, and when the second start condition is satisfied (the second start condition). When a prize is generated), the second special figure reserved storage number is updated so as to increase 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, a random number value MR1 for determining a special figure display result (variable display result of a special figure game) is selected from numerical data updated by a random counter or the like provided in the random number circuit 104 or the RAM 102. Numerical data indicating a random number value MR2 for determining a jackpot type and a random number value MR3 for determining a variation pattern are extracted. Numerical data indicating each of the random numbers extracted in this 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.

  As shown in FIG. 6 (A), the first special figure holding storage unit associates the holding numbers “1” to “4” in the order of winning the first starting winning opening (the order of detecting game balls), for example. Numerical data of the random numbers MR1 to MR3 are stored as pending data until the storage number reaches a predetermined upper limit (for example, “4”). The hold data thus stored in the first special figure holding storage unit indicates the first special figure game whose execution is held.

  As shown in FIG. 6B, the second special figure holding storage unit associates the holding numbers “1” to “4” in the order of winning the second starting winning opening (the order of detecting game balls), for example. Numerical data of the random numbers MR1 to MR3 are stored as pending data until the storage number reaches a predetermined upper limit (for example, “4”). The hold data thus stored in the second special figure holding storage unit indicates the second special figure game whose execution is held.

  In this embodiment, the special figure game that has not been started (the execution of which is suspended) (especially, information on the special figure game) is stored as the reserved memory.

  Returning to FIG. 5, following the processing of step S210, the setting for transmitting the effect control command at the time of occurrence of the start winning is performed (step S211). When the starting port buffer value is “1”, the transmission setting of the first starting winning designation command and the first special figure reserved storage number adding specifying command is performed, and when the starting port buffer value is “2”, the second starting winning command is set. Transmission setting of a start winning designation command and a second special figure reserved storage number addition designation command is performed.

  Further, effect control CPU 120 determines whether the starting port buffer value is “1” or “2” (step S214). At this time, if the starting port buffer value is "2" (Step S214; "2"), the starting port buffer is cleared and its stored value (starting port buffer value) is initialized to "0" ( Step S215), the start winning determination process ends. On the other hand, when the starting port buffer value is "1" (step S214; "1"), the starting port buffer is cleared and its stored value is initialized to "0" (step S216). It proceeds to the process of step S204.

  The special symbol normal process of step S110 shown in FIG. 4 is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is “0”. FIG. 7 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 in step S232, the second special figure reserved storage number is updated by, for example, subtracting 1 from the second reserved figure storage count and updating the second special figure reserved storage number. The content stored in the section is shifted (step S233). For example, the hold data stored in the storage area lower than the hold number “1” (the storage area corresponding to the hold numbers “2” to “4”) in the second special figure hold storage unit is 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 processing of step S236, the first special figure reserved storage number is updated by subtracting 1 from the first reserved figure storage count, and the first special figure reserved storage number is updated by subtracting one. The contents stored in the section are shifted (step S237). For example, the hold data stored in the storage area lower than the hold number “1” (the storage area corresponding to the hold numbers “2” to “4”) in the first special figure hold storage unit is shifted upward by one entry at a time. shift. In addition, in the process of step S237, the update is performed so as to subtract 1 from the total number of reserved storages. Then, the variable special figure designation buffer value is updated to "1" (step S238).

  In this embodiment, the process in step S235 is executed when it is determined in step S231 that the second special figure reserved storage number is “0”, and the first special figure reserved storage number is “0”. Is determined. As a result, the second special figure game is executed prior to the first special figure game.

  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, a special figure display result determination table prepared in the ROM 101 in advance is used. In the special figure display result determination table, the numerical value (decision value) to be compared with the random number value MR1 for determining the special figure display result is used to determine whether the special figure display result is “big hit” or “losing”. , As long as it is assigned. 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. 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 the state is the probable change state may be specified by a probable change flag provided in the RAM 102 (a flag that is turned on in the probable change state).

  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 one of a plurality of types (step S242). As an example, in the process of step S242, a jackpot type determination table prepared in the ROM 101 in advance is used. In the jackpot type determination table, a numerical value (decision value) to be compared with the random number value MR2 for jackpot type determination is assigned to the result of determining whether the jackpot type is “probable” or “non-probable”. I just need. The CPU 103 may determine the jackpot type by referring to the jackpot type determination table based on the jackpot type determination random number value MR2 read out to the fluctuation random number buffer.

  Then, the big hit type is stored. The CPU 103 stores the jackpot type in the jackpot type buffer provided in the RAM 102 by storing the data indicating the determination result of the jackpot type (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 special special figure game variable display result (special figure display result) is determined. A 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), a predetermined demonstration display setting is performed (step S246), and the special special symbol processing ends. . In the demonstration display setting, for example, it is determined whether the demonstration display start designation command has been transmitted. If the command has not been transmitted, the command is set to be transmitted. If the command has been transmitted, the process ends. Unsent / sent of the demonstration display start designation command includes a demonstration display flag provided in the RAM 102 (a flag which is turned on when the command is transmitted, and which is turned off by executing a special map game). Specify by state.

  The variation pattern setting process of step S111 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is “1”. FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the variation pattern setting process.

  In the variation pattern setting process shown in FIG. 8, 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. 9 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 B3-2 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 to super reach), PA3-3 and PB3-3 specify execution of super reach A, and PA3-4 and PB3-4 , Specifies execution of super reach B.

  In the process of step S262, for example, the variation pattern at the time of the big hit is determined using the big hit variation pattern determination table prepared in the ROM 101. In the jackpot variation pattern determination table, a numerical value (decision value) to be compared with the variation pattern determination random number value MR3 so as to realize, for example, the determination ratio of FIG. PB3-2 to PB3-4). The CPU 103 refers to the change pattern determination table for big hits based on the numerical data indicating the random number value MR3 for change pattern read to the random number buffer for change and reads the change patterns at the time of big hits (PB3-2 to PB3-2). 4) may be determined.

  In the process of step S263, the variation pattern at the time of the loss is determined using, for example, the first loss variation pattern determination table or the second loss variation pattern determination table prepared in the ROM 101. The first loss variation pattern determination table is used when not in the time reduction state, and the second loss variation pattern determination table is used in the time reduction state. Whether the state is the time saving state is specified by, for example, a state of a time saving flag provided in the RAM 102 (a flag which is turned on in the time saving state). In the first loss variation pattern determination table, a numerical value (determination value) to be compared with the random value MR3 for determining a variation pattern is a variation at the time of loss as a determination result so as to realize the determination ratio of FIG. What is necessary is that it is assigned to the pattern (PA1-1, PA3-2 to PA3-4). In the second loss variation pattern determination table, a numerical value (determined value) to be compared with the random value MR3 for determining the variation pattern is a variation at the time of loss as a determination result so as to realize the determination ratio of FIG. What is necessary is that it is assigned to the pattern (PA2-1, PA3-2 to PA3-4). The CPU 103 refers to the first or second loss variation pattern determination table based on numerical data indicating the variation random number value MR3 for determining the variation pattern read out to the variation random number buffer, and thereby determines the loss variation pattern (PA1- 1, any of PA3-2 to PA3-4, or any of PA2-1, PA3-2 to PA3-4).

  Referring to FIG. 10 and FIG. 11, 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. Therefore, the big hit expectation is high in the order of super reach B> super reach A> normal reach. Further, in the time reduction state, PA2-1 having a short special figure fluctuation time is selected, so that the average special figure fluctuation time is shorter in the time reduction state than in the non-time reduction state.

  After executing one of the processes in steps S262 and S263, a special figure fluctuation time is set according to the fluctuation pattern determined this time (step S264). For example, a timer initial value corresponding to the special figure fluctuation time is set in a predetermined timer of the RAM 102 (the timer value is updated thereafter, and the elapsed time from the start of the special figure game execution is measured. .).

  Subsequent to the process of step S264, a special symbol change is started so as to start one of the first special figure game and the second special figure game for which the start condition is satisfied (step S265). ). As an example, if the variable special figure designating buffer value is “1” (at the time of executing the first special figure game), 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” (during the execution of the second special figure game), 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 S265, the transmission setting of the fluctuation start time command (the command corresponding to the above-described determination result) is performed as the command at the time of starting the execution of the special figure game (step S266). For example, when the fluctuation special figure designation buffer value is “1”, the CPU 103 performs transmission setting of a fluctuation pattern specification command, a display result specification command, and a first special figure reserved storage number subtraction specification command. On the other hand, when the fluctuation special figure designation buffer value is “2”, the CPU 103 performs transmission setting of the fluctuation pattern specification command, the display result specification command, and the second special figure reservation storage number subtraction specification 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 elapsed time from the start of the special figure game (measured by the predetermined timer or the like) has reached the special figure fluctuation time set above (when the predetermined timer value is 0). Is determined), and if not reached, a 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. After performing the process of changing the special symbol, the process is terminated. On the other hand, when the special figure fluctuation time has been reached, 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-mentioned determination is made. The pattern of this variable display result (specified by the jackpot flag or the jackpot type stored in the jackpot type buffer, etc.) (“-” for “losing”, “7” for “probably variable jackpot”, “ In the case of a "probable change big hit", "3" or the like is stopped (derived display), the transmission setting of the symbol determination 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”. For example, when the variable display result this time is “big hit”, the CPU 103 resets the time saving flag and the probability change flag to OFF. After that, the transmission setting of the hit start designation command is performed, the special figure process flag is updated to “4”, and this processing ends. In the case of "losing" in the time reduction state, it is determined whether or not a predetermined number of variable displays that can be executed in the time reduction state have been executed (for example, counting may be performed by a counter or the like). If so, the time saving flag is reset to off, the value of the special figure process flag is set to “0”, and the process is terminated. This process is terminated by, for example, setting the value of the special figure process flag to “0” even when the variable display of the predetermined number of times is not executed due to “losing” and not the time saving state.

  The big hit opening pre-processing of step S114 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is “4”. For example, the elapsed time after the transmission setting of the hit start designation command (may be measured by a timer or the like provided in the RAM 102; the same applies to the other elapsed times) is set to a preset fan fare waiting time ( It is determined whether the waiting time from the start to the end of the fanfare in the jackpot gaming state has been reached, and if not, the big hit opening pre-processing is ended. When the fanfare waiting time has been reached, processing for opening the special winning opening (supply of a solenoid drive signal) and the like are performed to start a round game, and the special figure process flag is updated to “5”. By repeatedly performing step S114 every time a timer interrupt occurs, standby until the round game start timing (standby until the end of the fanfare), opening of the special winning opening, and the like are realized.

  The big hit opening processing in step S115 is executed when the value of the special figure process flag is “5”. 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”) (the count may be performed by a counter or the like provided in the RAM 102), or a round game is performed. When the elapsed time from the start (after opening the special winning opening) reaches the upper limit period (for example, 29 seconds) of the round game and the timing to end the round game is reached, the special winning opening is set. A process of returning to the closed state and ending the round game (a process of turning off the solenoid 82) and the like are performed. 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), a setting for transmitting a hit end designation command is performed. The value of the special figure process flag is updated to “7”, and this processing ends. 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 elapsed time after the round game has ended (after closing the special winning opening) has reached a predetermined closing time (round game interval period). , The closed state is maintained, and this processing ends. When the predetermined closing time has been reached, processing such as 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”. For example, the elapsed time from the end of the last round game (after closing the big winning opening) is set to a predetermined ending waiting time (a waiting time from the start to the end of the ending in the big hit game state). It is determined whether or not it has reached, and if it has not, this process ends. When the ending waiting time is reached, the ending is finished, so when the current big hit type (big hit type stored in the big hit type buffer) is “probable change”, the time saving flag and the probable change flag are turned on, and the “non-probable change” Sometimes, the time reduction flag is turned on and the probability variable flag is kept off. Then, the value of the special figure process flag is updated to “0”, and this processing ends.

(Main operation in effect control board 12)
In the effect control board 12, when the effect control CPU 120 receives an effect control command from a predetermined input port of the I / O 125, the effect control command is stored in an effect control command reception buffer provided in the RAM 122, for example, as a reception command. Store. The effect control CPU 120 executes command analysis processing, effect control process processing, effect random number update processing, and the like. These processes are executed each time a timer interrupt occurs due to a CTC (counter / timer circuit) (for example, every 10 ms). The execution of the effect is realized by executing the command analysis process, the effect control process process, and the like for each timer interrupt.

  The command analysis process is, for example, a process of reading and analyzing a received command stored in an effect control command receiving buffer, and performing settings and control corresponding to the analysis result. The effect control process is a process of executing an effect in response to an effect control command. In the effect random number updating process, the effect random number value used for effect control is updated by software.

(Command analysis processing)
In the command analysis processing, the received command (the effect control command received by the effect control board 12) stored in the effect control command receiving buffer is analyzed (for example, MODE data is confirmed), and the effect control is performed by the received command. A command is specified, and processing according to the specified effect control command is performed.

  FIG. 12 shows a relationship between the effect control command specified by the analysis by the command analysis process and the processing content performed in the command analysis process corresponding to the effect control command. Each flag and each storage area in the figure are provided in the RAM 122. “Set” for a flag means that the flag is turned on. The state of each flag and the command stored in each storage area may be reset or erased at an appropriate timing. When the special figure reserved storage number addition designation command or the special figure reserved storage number subtraction designation command is received, the number of the first reserved display images or the second reserved display images in the display area 5HL or 5HR may be increased or decreased accordingly. .

(Direction control process processing)
In the effect control process (see FIG. 13, the details of which will be described later), the effect control CPU 120 sets the start (start of the effect) for starting the execution of various effects, and the effect of executing the set effect. Performs operation control and the like. The flags, timers, counters, and the like described below are provided in the RAM 122. In this embodiment, various effect settings can be changed, and the effect control CPU 120 performs effect start settings and effect operation control in accordance with the effect settings. The contents of the effect setting may be appropriately stored and referred to in the RAM 102 or the like.

  The start setting of the effect includes, for example, setting the effect control pattern as a use pattern in the RAM 122 and setting an initial value in the process timer according to the effect control pattern set as described above. After the initial value is set, the timer value of the process timer is decremented at a predetermined timing (at the start of the effect control process process, at the time of effect operation control, etc.) every time a timer interrupt occurs. The effect control pattern is a collection of data for executing various effects (including variable display of decorative symbols), and is associated with a process timer determination value to be compared with a timer value of a process timer and the determination value. It is composed of the effect control execution data (display control data, audio control data, lighting control data, vibration control data, etc.) and process data including an end code. Data forming the effect control pattern is stored in the ROM 121.

  The effect operation control is control for executing an effect based on the effect control pattern set in the effect start setting. For example, of the effect control execution data corresponding to the process timer determination value that matches the current timer value of the process timer, the display control command according to the display control data is transmitted to the display control unit 123 and transmitted to the image display device 5. An image is displayed, a sound effect signal according to the sound control data is transmitted to the sound control board 13 to output sound from the speakers 8L and 8R, and an illumination signal according to the lighting control data is sent to the lamp control board 14. Control to execute various effects by transmitting and turning on / off the game effect lamp 9 and transmitting a control signal according to the vibration control data to the controller sensor unit 35A to vibrate the vibration unit in the stick controller 31A. I do. Execution of various effects is realized by repeatedly performing the effect operation control each time a timer interrupt occurs.

(Direction control process processing)
FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the effect control process. In the effect control process, after performing the sound volume display process (step S162), any one of steps S170 to S175 is performed according to the value of the effect process flag. In each process, the following process is executed.

  First, the volume display process (FIG. 14) in step S162 will be described. As described above, the pachinko gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment is capable of adjusting the volume (an example of changing the effect setting) based on the operation of the volume button 31C by the player. That is, the pachinko gaming machine 1 is configured so that the volume of the sound from the speakers 8L and 8R can be changed according to the operation of the volume button 31C by the player. The volume display process is to implement a volume change based on the player's operation on the volume button 31C and display of a volume image VL indicating the volume (FIGS. 28 to 31) together with a temporary display process (step S344) described later. Processing. The volume change processing and the temporary display processing are repeatedly executed for each timer interrupt, so that the volume change and the display of the volume image VL are realized.

  First, effect control CPU 120 determines whether or not super reach is being executed (step S601). The execution period of the super reach may be defined, for example, by an effect control pattern (effect control pattern set as a use pattern) for executing a variable display of a decorative symbol. Alternatively, a flag that is turned on during the execution of the super reach may be prepared, and the determination in step S601 may be performed based on the state of the flag.

  If the super reach is not being executed in step S601 (step S601; No), it is determined whether or not the super reach operation flag is set to the on state (step S602). The super reach operation flag is a flag that is turned on when the player operates the volume button 31C during the super reach.

  If the super-reach operation flag is not set to the ON state in step S602 (step S602; No), the image display device 5 displays the current volume (information on the volume held in the RAM 102 or the like). The display control is performed to display a volume image VL indicating that it is specified (step S603). If the volume image VL has already been displayed at the time of execution of step S603, display control for continuing the display of the volume image VL may be performed.

  The display control relating to the display of the volume image VL (including control for continuation of display of the volume image VL and termination of display (erasing of the volume image VL)) is performed, for example, by the effect control CPU 120 displaying a predetermined display control command. What is necessary is just to transmit by transmitting to the control part 123 (the same hereafter). The display control unit 123 controls display / non-display of the volume image VL according to the content of the display control command. By setting the layer for displaying the volume image VL to be different from the layer for displaying other effects such as variable display of decorative patterns, the display control of the volume image VL can be easily performed.

  If the super-reach operation flag is set (ON state) in step S602 (step S602; Yes), display control for continuing the display of the volume image VL is executed (step S604), and the super-reach operation is performed. The flag is reset to the off state (step S605). In steps S604 and S605, as shown in FIG. 31C, the display of the volume image VL when the operation on the volume button 31C (the operation for changing the volume) is performed immediately before the end of the super-reach effect is performed. Is a process for continuing. Thus, the volume image VL displayed by performing an operation on the volume button 31C immediately before the end of the super reach can be continuously displayed even after the end of the super reach effect, and can be displayed at the end timing of the super reach effect. Once erased, it can be prevented.

  After executing the processing of step S603 or after executing the processing of step S605, it is determined whether or not the volume button 31C has been operated (step S606). Whether or not the volume button 31C is operated is determined based on whether or not an operation detection signal (a signal indicating a player's operation of the volume button 31C) is supplied from the volume button sensor 35C.

  If the operation detection signal is supplied and the volume button 31C is operated (step S606; Yes), the volume is set according to the operation detection signal according to the operation content indicated by the operation detection signal. At the same time, display control for displaying a volume image VL indicating the volume after the operation is performed, and measurement of an elapsed time from this point is started to measure a predetermined period which is a display period of the volume image VL (step S607).

  In setting the volume, when the operation detection signal indicates that the upper button of the volume buttons 31C has been pressed, the currently set volume is increased by one level. When the operation detection signal indicates that the upper button of the volume buttons 31C has been pressed, the currently set volume is increased by one level. For example, when the volume is specified by the effect control pattern, the contents of the currently used effect control pattern (portion for specifying the volume) are rewritten, and the volume specified by the pattern is raised or lowered by one step. When the sound volume is controlled by the sound control board 13, a predetermined signal is supplied to the sound control board 13 to issue a command to raise or lower the sound volume by one step. Further, information indicating the current volume (for example, a numerical value that can take "0" to "5") held in the RAM 122 or the like is also updated to information indicating the volume increased or decreased by one level. When the upper button is pressed when the volume is at the maximum, or when the lower button is pressed when the volume is at the minimum, the volume is maintained at that stage.

  In the display control of the volume image VL, the volume image VL is updated so as to indicate the volume after the setting of the volume. The volume image VL has five frames as shown in FIG. 1 and the like, and the number of frames corresponding to the volume is lit left-justified. For example, when the information indicating the sound volume held by the RAM 122 is updated from “3” to “4”, the sound volume image VL is updated from a lighted three light image to a lighted four light image.

  The measurement of the elapsed time is started by, for example, setting an initial value corresponding to a predetermined period in a predetermined timer (the timer value of the predetermined timer is determined whether the elapsed time = the predetermined period at the start of the production control process process). It may be updated each time the effect control process is performed, such as at the time of determination.)

  After executing the processing of step S607, the operation flag other than the super reach is turned on (step S608). The non-super-reach operation flag is a flag that is turned on when the player operates the volume button 31C except during super-reach.

  On the other hand, when there is no operation on the volume button 31C (step S606; No), it is determined whether the operation flag is in the on state except for the super reach mode (step S609).

  After step S608 or when the operation flag other than super reach is ON (step S609; Yes), it is determined whether the elapsed time at which the measurement has been started reaches a predetermined period (for example, 3 seconds) (for example, the predetermined time). The timer value of the timer is updated by decrementing it by 1, and it is determined whether the updated timer value has become 0 (step S610). When the predetermined period has been reached due to the updated timer value being 0 (step S610; Yes), the operation flag other than the super reach is reset to the off state (step S611).

  Returning to step S601, if super reach is being performed (step S601; Yes), it is determined whether the operation flag other than super reach is on (step S612). When the operation flag other than the super-reach mode is off (step S612; No), it is determined whether the super-reach operation flag is on (step S613). If the super reach operation flag is off (step S613; No), display control for deleting the volume image VL (ending the display) is executed (step S614).

  Steps S613 and S614 are processing for not displaying the volume image VL during super reach in principle, as shown in FIG. 30A described later. More specifically, in the second state in which the super-reach is executed, that is, in the game state in which the super-reach effect is being performed, the volume is displayed on the image display device 5 as shown in FIG. 28 unless the player requests (operation on the volume button 31C). The image VL is not displayed (the volume image VL is deleted). This makes it possible to prevent the volume image VL from being displayed during execution of super reach, which is an example of a game effect that the player particularly wants to show, and to suppress a decrease in the super reach effect.

  If the operation flag other than the super reach is off in step S609 (step S609; No), if the elapsed time is not the predetermined period in step S610 (step S610; No), after executing the processing of step S611, If the operation flag other than super reach is set to the on state in step S612 (step S612; Yes), and if the super reach operation flag is set to the on state in step S613 (step S613; Yes). After executing the processing of step S614, the volume display processing ends.

  According to the volume display process (step S162), the volume image VL can be displayed even in the demonstration screen display.

  The variable display start waiting process in step S170 in the effect control process process of FIG. 13 is executed when the effect process flag is “0”. FIG. 15 is a flowchart of an example of the variable display start waiting process.

  In the variable display start waiting process, effect control CPU 120 determines whether or not a fluctuation start command (a fluctuation pattern designation command, a display result designation command, a first or second special figure hold storage number subtraction designation command) has been received. (Step S401). The command is received, for example, in a command storage area (FIG. 12) corresponding to an effect control command for which it is desired to determine whether the command reception flag (FIG. 12) corresponding to the effect control command for which reception is to be determined is ON. The determination may be made depending on whether the command is stored or the like (hereinafter, the determination regarding the command reception is the same).

  If the fluctuation start command has not been received (step S401; No), it is determined whether the demonstration execution flag (the flag that is turned on during the demonstration display) is on (step S402). (Step S402; No), it is determined whether a demonstration display start designation command has been received (Step S403).

  If the demo display start designation command has not been received (step S403; No), this processing ends, and if it has been received (step S403; Yes), the demonstration effect (demo display) start setting (demo display is executed) (Step S404), and the demonstration execution flag is set to ON (Step S405). As will be described later, a normal demonstration screen with operation guidance (guidance images SH1 and SH2) is displayed after a certain time has elapsed after the start of the demonstration (FIG. 24). (For example, an effect control pattern that specifies that a layer for displaying operation guidance after a certain period of time has been overlaid on a normal demo screen without operation guidance, etc.) is set.

  If the demonstration in-progress flag is on (step S402; Yes), a demonstration execution process for executing a demonstration screen display or the like is performed (step S406), and the variable display start waiting process ends. The contents of the process will be described later. If the command at the start of the fluctuation has been received (step 401; Yes), the variable display of the decorative symbol is started, so that the demonstration execution flag is turned off (if it is already off, the flag is kept off). ), The effect process flag is updated to “1” (steps S407A and S407B), and the variable display start waiting process ends.

  Next, the demonstration execution processing will be described. The demo execution process is a process for executing the demo display. Since the screen changes or the effect setting is changed according to the operation of the player, the demo display screen realized in the demo execution process is displayed. First, the flow of the demonstration execution process will be described.

  When the demonstration display is started, a normal demonstration screen without operation guidance is displayed (FIG. 24A), and operation guidance is displayed after a certain period of time has elapsed (FIG. 24B). The operation guidance is an image including a guidance image SH1 for guiding an operation method for shifting to a menu screen and a guidance image SH2 for guiding a volume adjustment method (FIG. 24B). Note that on the normal demonstration screen, an effect image (not shown) or the like is appropriately displayed. When the push button 31B is operated after the operation guidance is displayed, the display screen transits from the normal demo screen to the parent menu screen (the menu screen is called).

  While the parent menu screen (FIG. 24 (C)) is being displayed, the player operates the stick controller 31A to display each item (“background customization”, “game customization”, “BGM”) displayed on the parent menu screen. “Customize”, “Return”, and “RESET” can be selected (the selected item is highlighted by lighting or the like). When the push button 31B is pressed, the selected item (the item highlighted) is determined. In the following, such selection and determination is also referred to as “selection determination”. As shown in FIG. 24, when any one of the setting categories “background customization”, “game customization”, and “BGM customization” is selected and determined, the screen shifts to a child menu screen of the selected and determined setting category. When "Return" is selected and confirmed, the display returns to the normal demonstration screen. When "RESET" is selected and confirmed, all of the variable display effect settings of "background customization", "game property customization", and "BGM customization" are initialized (note that the volume is not initialized).

  As shown in FIG. 25, when “background customization” is selected and confirmed in the parent menu, the demo screen transits to a child menu screen for background customization. “Background customization” is a setting category related to the background of the effect image. Like the parent menu screen, when the child menu screen is displayed, each item ("ground", "underwater", "sky", "back", " RESET ”), and the item selected with the push button 31B can be confirmed. When any one of “ground”, “underwater”, and “sky” is selected and confirmed, the background (one of the ground, underwater, and sky) indicated by the selected and confirmed item is a rendering image (a rendering image in a variable display). Is set as the background. When “Return” is selected and confirmed, the screen returns to the parent menu screen. When “RESET” is selected and confirmed, “background customization” is initialized (for example, a background on the ground is set).

  As shown in FIG. 26, when “game property customization” is selected and confirmed in the parent menu, the demo screen transitions to a game property customization child menu screen. The “game customization” includes a setting to execute the vibration effect by the vibration unit during the reach effect (“vibration”), a setting to perform the premier effect more frequently than usual (“premier up”), and a pattern effect. Each variable display effect setting of the setting ("pattern intense heat mode") for increasing the jackpot expectation is included. In the child menu screen, each item ("vibration", "premier up", "pattern" "Intense heat mode") is displayed together with "ON" and "OFF". When the child menu screen is displayed, the stick controller 31A selects each item (“ON”, “OFF”, “return”, “RESET”) displayed on the child menu screen, and pushes the push button 31B. Can be used to confirm the selected item. In FIG. 26, the items with hatching are the currently set items (here, “ON” corresponding to “vibration” and “premier up”), and the items with dots are currently selected. (Here, “ON” corresponding to the “pattern intense heat mode”) (similarly in FIG. 27). When “ON” corresponding to “vibration” is selected and confirmed, the “vibration” is turned on (validated), and the effect of vibration is executed at a predetermined timing. When “OFF” corresponding to “vibration” is selected and confirmed, the “vibration” is turned off (disabled), and the effect of vibration is not executed at the predetermined timing. When “ON” corresponding to “Premier Up” is selected and confirmed, the “Premier Up” is turned on (validated), and the execution frequency of the premier effect is improved as compared with when “OFF” is selected and confirmed. When "ON" corresponding to the "pattern intense heat mode" is selected and confirmed, the "pattern intense heat mode" is turned on (activated), and the pattern effect big hit expectation degree is selected and confirmed as "OFF". Overall better than. When “Return” is selected and confirmed, the screen returns to the parent menu screen. When "RESET" is selected and confirmed, only the variable display effect setting of "game customization" is initialized (for example, all are turned off).

  As shown in FIG. 27, when “BGM customization” is selected and confirmed in the parent menu, the demo screen transits to a child menu screen of BGM customization. The “BGM customization” includes each variable display effect setting such as a setting for having a song (“song”) and a setting for outputting a specific sound effect (“sound effect”). Items indicating these (“song” and “sound effect”) are displayed together with “ON” and “OFF”. When the child menu screen is displayed, the stick controller 31A selects each item (“ON”, “OFF”, “return”, “RESET”) displayed on the child menu screen, and pushes the push button 31B. Can be used to confirm the selected item. When “ON” corresponding to “song” is selected and confirmed, the “song” is turned on (validated), and the BGM of the effect performed during the variable display is accompanied by a song, while “OFF” is turned on. When the selection is confirmed, the “song” is turned off (disabled), and the BGM has no song. When “ON” corresponding to “sound effect” is selected and confirmed, the “sound effect” is turned on (validated), and a specific effect sound is output in the effect performed during the variable display. On the other hand, when “OFF” is selected and confirmed, the “sound effect” is turned off (disabled), and the specific sound effect is not output. When “Return” is selected and confirmed, the screen returns to the parent menu screen. When “RESET” is selected and confirmed, only the effect setting during variable display of “BGM customization” is initialized (for example, all are turned off).

  Based on the above, the demonstration execution processing will be described. FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the demonstration execution process.

  The effect control CPU 120 determines whether a fixed time (for example, 5 seconds) has elapsed from the start of the demonstration display (for example, the demonstration start setting in step S404) (step S421). For example, the elapse of the certain time is determined by determining whether the elapsed time measured by the timer operating from the start of the demonstration has reached the above-mentioned certain period.

  If the fixed time has not elapsed (step S421; No), effect operation control for executing a demonstration display is performed (step S433). The effect operation control is executed in accordance with the effect control pattern as described above. Note that the demonstration display may be repeatedly executed without starting the variable display. Here, since the above-mentioned fixed time has not elapsed since the start of the demonstration display, a normal demonstration screen (FIG. 24B) without operation guidance is displayed.

  If the predetermined time has elapsed (step S421; Yes), it is determined whether the menu screen (either the parent menu or the child menu) is currently being displayed (step S422). For example, this determination may be made with reference to a flag that is turned on while the menu screen is displayed.

  If the currently displayed demo screen is not the menu screen (step S422; No), it is determined whether or not the push button 31B has been operated (step S429). Whether or not the push button 31B is operated is determined based on whether or not an operation detection signal (a signal indicating a player's operation action on the push button 31B) is supplied from the push sensor 35B (the operation on the stick controller 31A is also performed). Similar).

  When there is no input of the operation detection signal and there is no operation of the push button 31B (Step S429; No), effect operation control for executing the demonstration display is performed (Step S430). The effect operation control is executed in accordance with the effect control pattern as described above. In this case, since a certain time has elapsed, an effect operation control for executing a demonstration display on a normal demonstration screen (FIG. 24B) with operation guidance is performed.

  If there is no operation detection signal input and the push button 31B is operated (step S429; Yes), the push button 31B has been operated to call the menu screen during the operation guide display, so that the parent menu screen is displayed. Display is started (step S432). For example, after the currently set effect control pattern is rewritten so as to display the parent menu screen, the effect operation control is performed. Note that the display of the layer for displaying the parent menu screen on the normal demo screen (front side) may be started. In this case, display control of the menu screen is performed on this layer, for example, by setting an effect control pattern for displaying the menu screen on this layer.

  When the menu screen is being displayed (step S422; Yes), it is determined whether the push button 31B or the stick controller 31A has been operated (step S423).

  If there is an operation (step S423; Yes), it is determined based on the operation detection signal whether the operation is an operation for changing the effect setting during variable display (step S424). Specifically, the child menu screen is currently displayed, and the items (highlighted items) selected by the stick controller 31A are “ground” (FIG. 25), “underwater” (FIG. 25), When the push button 31B is operated in any of "empty" (FIG. 25), "ON" (FIGS. 26 and 27), and "OFF" (FIGS. 26 and 27), the variable display effect is produced. It is determined that the operation is to change the setting (that is, one of the above is selected and confirmed). When it is determined that the operation is to be changed (Step S424; Yes), the effect setting is changed according to the item selected and confirmed (for example, information indicating the content of the effect setting stored in the RAM 122 is changed, or the like). ), Setting for notifying the user of the change is made (step S425).

  In the setting for notifying that the change has been made, for example, an item that has been selected and confirmed is displayed by flashing the item that has been selected and then changing the color of the item, and so on. The effect of the change is notified by rewriting the effect control pattern. Note that during the period in which the selected item is blinked, the determination may be always No in step S423 (the operation may be invalidated).

  If the operation is not an operation for changing the effect setting during variable display (step S424; No), it is determined whether the operation is an operation for initializing (step S426). Specifically, when the push button 31B is operated while the item (highlighted item) selected by the stick controller 31A is "RESET" (FIGS. 24 to 27), initialization is performed. It is determined that the operation is to be changed. When it is determined that the operation is the initialization operation (Step S426; Yes), the initialization is performed according to the current menu screen (for example, the effect setting stored in the RAM 122 is initialized according to the current menu screen). Settings, etc.), and setting for notifying that initialization has been performed (step S426). During the period of notifying that the initialization has been performed, the determination may be always No in step S423 (the operation may be invalidated).

  In the initialization, as described above, when the current screen is the parent menu screen, all of the variable display effect settings included in each setting category are initialized, and when the current screen is the child menu screen for background customization, Initialize the customization, initialize the variable display effect setting included in the setting category when it is a child menu screen of game customization, and if it is a child menu screen of BGM customization, change the variable display effect setting included in the setting category (See also FIG. 17; the volume is not initialized in any case).

  In the setting for notifying that the change has been made, for example, the currently set item (“RESET”) is made to blink, and then an image of the initialization notification such as “initialized” is displayed for a predetermined period. The effect of the change is notified by rewriting the effect control pattern. In addition, during the period in which the selected and confirmed item is blinked and the image of the initialization notification is being displayed, it may be always determined to be No in step S423 (the operation may be invalidated).

  When the operation is not the operation for performing the initialization (Step S426; No), the display setting according to the operation is performed (Step S428).

  When the stick controller 31A is operated (when the operation detection signal indicates the operation of the stick controller 31A), the present effect control is performed in a pattern in which the highlight is moved in a direction corresponding to the tilt direction indicated by the operation detection signal. Rewrite the pattern. For example, when the stick controller 31A is tilted in the forward direction in the state of FIG. 25A, the current effect control is performed according to the screen pattern in which the highlight is moved from “background customization” to “game customization”. Rewrite the pattern. When the stick controller 31A is tilted rightward in the state of FIG. 26B, the current effect control pattern is rewritten to the screen pattern in which “ON” is moved to “OFF”.

  When the push button 31B is operated (when the operation detection signal indicates the operation of the push button 31B), "return" is selected and confirmed, and the screen to which the demo screen is returned (the parent menu screen) In the case of "return", the current effect control pattern is rewritten to a pattern for displaying the normal demonstration screen, and in the case of "return" in the child menu screen, the parent menu screen.

  If there is no operation (Step S423; No), after Steps S425, S427, and S428, effect operation control according to the current effect control pattern (including the effect control pattern after rewriting) is performed (Step S435). Thereby, the change of the screen described above is realized. After steps S430, S432, S433, and S435, the demonstration execution process ends.

  The variable display start setting process of step S171 in the effect control process process of FIG. 13 is executed when the effect process flag is “1”. FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the process performed in step S171.

  In the variable display start setting process, the effect control CPU 120 first determines a final stop symbol or the like which is a final decorative symbol as a variable symbol display result (step S321). In the process of step S321, the effect control CPU 120 finally stops based on the variable display result (stored in the display result designation command storage area) indicated by the display result designation command transmitted from the main board 11. Determine the design. The final stop symbol may be determined in advance according to the variable display result specified by the display result specifying command. The determined decorative symbol is predetermined based on a table (stored in the ROM 121) and a random value (updated by the random number circuit 124 or a random counter for effect. The same applies to the following random number value). It may be determined at random from the candidate for the fixed decoration symbol (candidate according to the variable display result).

  Subsequent to the determination of the final stop symbol or the like in the process of step S321, an effect execution determination process (FIG. 19) for determining whether to execute a pattern effect or a premium effect is executed (step S322). In the effect execution determination process, first, effect control CPU 120 determines that the fluctuation pattern specified by the current fluctuation pattern specification command (the command stored in the fluctuation pattern specification command storage area) is a variable display result with a big hit and a super reach B It is determined whether or not the variation pattern PB3-4 for executing is performed is specified (step S322A).

  If the variation pattern PB3-4 is to be designated (step S322A; Yes), it is determined whether or not a premium effect is to be executed (step S322B). In step S322B, the first premiere effect determination table or the second premiere effect determination table prepared in the ROM 121 in advance is used. The first premiere effect determination table is referred to when "Premier Up" is off, and the second premier effect determination table is referred to when "Premier Up" is on. The on / off state of “Premier Up” may be specified by the information on the variable display effect setting stored in the RAM 122 (the same applies to other variable display setting). In the first or second premiere effect determination table, the numerical value (decision value) to be compared with the random number value is assigned to the result of the decision to execute the premier effect, “executed” or not to execute the premiere effect, “no execution”. (It is only necessary to be assigned so as to realize the determination ratio of FIG. 20). The effect control CPU 120 may determine whether or not to execute the premier effect by referring to the first or second premier effect determination table based on the random number value. As can be seen from steps S322A and S322B, the premium effect is executed only at the time of the big hit, and when the premium effect is executed, the big hit is determined. Also, as can be seen from the determination ratio in FIG. 20, the execution ratio (execution frequency) of the premium effect is higher when "Premier Up" is on than when it is off.

  After step S322B or when the variation pattern PB3-4 is designated (step S322A; Yes), it is determined whether or not a pattern effect is to be executed (step S322C). In step S322C, a first pattern effect determination table or a second pattern effect determination table prepared in the ROM 121 in advance is used. The first pattern effect determination table is referred to when the “pattern intense heat mode” is off, and the second pattern effect determination table is referred to in the case where the “pattern intense heat mode” is on. In the first or second pattern effect determination table, the numerical value (decision value) to be compared with the random value is “no execution” not performing the pattern effect, “pattern effect (arasa)” performing the arabesque pattern effect, What is necessary is just to be assigned to the result of the determination of the "pattern effect (cherry blossom)" for executing the pattern effect of the cherry blossom pattern (the only requirement is to be assigned so as to realize the determination ratio of FIG. 21). The effect control CPU 120 may determine whether or not the pattern effect is to be executed and the type of the effect when the pattern effect is to be executed, by referring to the first or second pattern effect determination table based on the random number value. As can be seen from the determination ratio in FIG. 21, the expectation of the jackpot increases in the order of execution of the pattern effect of the cherry blossom pattern> execution of the pattern effect of the arabesque pattern> no execution of the pattern effect. Also, when the “pattern intense heat mode” is on, the big hit expectation of each pattern effect is higher than when it is off.

  Returning to FIG. 18, after step S322, an effect (decorative design or reach of variable display or reach) reflecting the determination result of step S322, the fluctuation pattern or the variable display result specified by the display result designation command or the variation pattern designation command. A start setting (including an effect) (setting of an effect control pattern, setting of a timer initial value to a process timer according to a special figure fluctuation time designated by the fluctuation pattern, etc.) is performed (step S326). Here, the first effect operation control may also be performed. Also, here, an effect that performs an effect reflecting the above-described variable display effect settings (as described above, the background, the presence or absence of a song, the presence or absence of a sound effect, and the presence or absence of a vibration effect) (the information of the settings). Set the control pattern as the usage pattern. Further, when the sound volume is designated by the effect control pattern, an effect control pattern for designating the effect sound at the current volume (it may be specified by the information on the volume held in the RAM 122) is set. In addition, it is good to set an effect control pattern for each effect (including the variable display of the decorative symbol), and to perform the effect operation control according to each effect control pattern during the variable display of the decorative symbol. (In this case, an effect image may be formed by superimposing layers for executing each effect).

  Thereafter, when the special map game to be executed this time is the first special map game, the first reserved display image is reduced by one, and when the special map game is executed, the second reserved display image is reduced by one. Whether the figure game is to be executed may be specified by the change pattern designation command (step S327), and the effect process flag is updated to “2” (step S328). The control of reducing the first or second reserved display image by one is performed by issuing a predetermined display control command to the display control unit 123.

  The effect processing during variable display in step S172 in the effect control process processing of FIG. 13 is executed when the effect process flag is “2”. FIG. 22 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the variable display effect processing.

  In the variable display effect processing, first, based on, for example, the timer value of the process timer (the timer value set in step S326) or the like, whether the variable display time (special figure fluctuation time) corresponding to the current fluctuation pattern has elapsed. It is determined whether or not it is (step S341). As an example, in the process of step S341, the timer value of the process timer is updated (for example, decremented by 1) (may be updated at the beginning of the effect control process process) and corresponds to the updated effect control process timer value. For example, when the end code is read from the effect control pattern, it may be determined that the variable display time has elapsed.

  If the variable display time has not elapsed in step S341 (step S341; No), it is determined whether or not the current time is a reach effect period for executing the reach effect (step S342). The reach effect period may be predetermined, for example, in a set effect control pattern. When it is determined in step S342 that it is the reach effect period (step S342; Yes), it is determined whether or not the reach effect is super reach (step S343). Whether or not it is super reach may be specified by, for example, a fluctuation pattern specified by a fluctuation pattern specification command. Alternatively, it may be possible to specify by the effect control pattern. When it is determined that the vehicle is in the super-reach mode (step S343; Yes), a temporary display process for temporarily displaying the volume image VL is performed when a request is made by the player even during the super-reach mode (step S344). ). That is, when the player operates the volume button 31C during the super reach, the volume image VL (FIG. 29) is displayed on the display screen of the image display device 5 for a predetermined period (for example, 3 seconds).

  FIG. 23 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the temporary display process.

  The effect control CPU 120 first determines whether or not the operation flag other than the super reach is set to the ON state (step S701). If the operation flag other than the super reach is set to the ON state (step S701; Yes), it is determined whether the elapsed time at which the measurement was started in step S607 has reached a predetermined period (for example, 3 seconds) ( Step S702). If the predetermined period has not been reached (Step S702; No), it is determined whether or not the volume button 31C has been operated (Step S703). Whether or not the volume button 31C is operated is determined based on whether or not an operation detection signal (a signal indicating a player's operation on the volume button 31C) is supplied from the volume button sensor 35C (the same applies hereinafter).

  When there is an operation on the volume button 31C (step S703; Yes), the volume is set according to the operation detection signal in accordance with the operation content indicated by the operation detection signal, and the volume image VL indicating the volume after the operation. Is displayed, and the measurement of the elapsed time from this point is restarted in order to re-measure the predetermined period which is the display period of the volume image VL (step S704). The description of the display control conforms to the description of step S607 and the like. The restart of the measurement of the elapsed time is performed by, for example, resetting an initial value corresponding to a predetermined period to a predetermined timer used for measuring the elapsed time (the same applies hereinafter).

  When there is no operation of the volume button (Step S703; No), there is no change in the volume, and display control for continuing the display of the volume image VL is performed to continue the volume display (Step S716).

  If the elapsed time at which the measurement was started in step S607 has reached a predetermined period (for example, three seconds), display control for deleting the volume image VL (ending the display) is executed (step S705). In addition, the operation flag is set to off at times other than super reach (step S706).

  When the operation flag during non-super-reach is off (step S701; No), it is determined whether the operation flag during super-reach is set to the on state (step S707).

  If the super reach operation flag is off in step S707 (step S707; No), it is determined whether or not the volume button 31C has been operated (step S708).

  When there is an operation on the volume button 31C (step S708; Yes), the volume is set according to the operation detection signal according to the operation content indicated by the operation detection signal, and the volume image VL indicating the volume after the operation is displayed. Display control to start is performed, and measurement of an elapsed time from this point is started to measure a predetermined period which is a display period of the volume image VL (step S709). The description of step S709 is similar to the description of step S607. However, here, the display of the volume image VL that has not been displayed due to the execution of the super reach is started. After step S709, the super reach operation flag is turned on (step S710). If there is no operation of the volume button (step S703; No), this processing ends.

  If the super reach operation flag is ON in step S707 (step S707; Yes), it is determined whether the elapsed time at which the measurement was started in step S709 has reached a predetermined period (for example, 3 seconds) (step S707). S711).

  If the predetermined period has not been reached (Step S711; No), it is determined whether or not the volume button 31C has been operated (Step S712). If there is an operation (step S712; Yes), display control is performed to set a volume according to the operation detection signal according to the operation content indicated by the operation detection signal and to display a volume image VL indicating the volume after the operation. The measurement of the elapsed time from this point is restarted in order to re-measure the predetermined period which is the display period of the volume image VL (step S713). The description of the processing of steps S712 and S713 is similar to the description of steps S703 to S704. If there is no operation (Step S712; No), the process of Step S716 is executed.

  If the predetermined period has been reached (step S711; Yes), display control for deleting the volume image VL (ending display) is executed (step S714). In addition, the operation flag is set to off at times other than super reach (step S715).

  By the temporary display processing, the display of the volume image VL is secured even when the volume is changed by operating the volume button 31C immediately before the super reach (FIG. 31A). When the volume button 31C is operated during the display of the volume image VL, the measurement of the predetermined period is performed again from the beginning (steps S703 and S704). The starting point can be the last operation timing. Further, by the temporary display process, when the volume button 31C is operated during the super reach to change the volume, the display of the volume image VL is secured (FIG. 30B). When the volume button 31C is operated during the display of the volume image VL, the measurement of the predetermined period is performed again from the beginning (steps S712 and S713). The starting point can be the last operation timing.

  Returning to FIG. 22, when it is determined that the vehicle is not in the super-reach mode (step S343; No), or after the process of step S344 is performed, control for performing a reach effect is performed (step S345).

  When it is determined in step S342 that it is not the reach effect period (step S342; No), or after performing the process of step S345, other effects during variable display such as variable display of decorative symbols are executed. Is performed (step S347), and the variable display during rendering process ends.

  If the variable display time has elapsed in step S341 (step S341; Yes), it is determined whether or not a symbol confirmation designation command has been received (step S351). At this time, if the symbol confirmation designation command has not been received (step S351; No), the variable display effect processing ends and the apparatus stands by. If the predetermined time has elapsed without receiving the symbol confirmation designation command after the variable display time has elapsed, the predetermined error processing is performed in response to the failure to normally receive the symbol confirmation designation command. It may be executed.

  If the symbol confirmation designation command is received in step S351 (step S351; Yes), a variable display of the decorative symbol is performed, for example, by transmitting a predetermined display control command to the VDP or the like of the display control unit 123. In step S352, control is performed to derive and display the final stop symbol (fixed decorative symbol) that is the display result. At this time, a predetermined fixed time is set as the hit start designation command reception waiting time (step S353). After the value of the effect process flag is updated to "3" (step S354), the effect processing during variable display is ended.

  The waiting process per special figure in step S173 in FIG. 13 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “3”. The effect control CPU 120 determines whether or not the current elapsed time (which may be measured by a predetermined timer) after deriving and displaying the final stop symbol has reached a predetermined hit start designation command reception waiting time. If the hit start designation command is received when the hit has not been reached, the start setting (set of the effect control pattern) of the large hit effect (the effect from the start of the fanfare executed during the big hit game state to the end of the ending) is performed. Do). After that, the value of the effect process flag is updated to “4”, and the process ends. If the hit start designation command reception waiting time has not been reached and the hit start designation command has not been received, the present process is terminated as it is. If the current elapsed time has reached the waiting time, the variable display result of the special figure game is determined to be "losing", the value of the effect process flag is updated to "0", and this processing ends. Since the current elapsed time has not reached the above-mentioned waiting time and the hit start designation command reception waiting time has not elapsed, the present processing is ended as it is.

  The hitting process in step S174 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “4”. For example, the effect control CPU 120 performs an effect operation control for executing an effect during a big hit. If the hit end designation command has been received, it means that all round games have ended, so the ending effect start setting (setting of effect control pattern, etc.) is performed, and the value of the effect process flag is changed to “ 5 ", and the hit processing ends. When the hit end designation command has not been received, all the round games have not been completed, and thus the present process is terminated.

  The ending process in step S175 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “5”, and is a process for executing the ending at the end of the big hit gaming state. The effect control CPU 120 determines whether the present is the end timing of the ending. The end timing may be defined by the effect control pattern. If it is not the end timing, the ending effect operation control is performed, and the present process ends. When the current time is the end timing, the start setting of the mission mode is performed (step S862). The value of the effect process flag is updated to “0” (step S864), and the process ends.

(Example of a production screen)
On the demonstration screen displayed on the image display device 5, first, a normal demonstration screen without operation guidance is displayed (FIG. 24A), and operation guidance (including the guidance images SH1 and SH2) is displayed after a certain period of time. (FIG. 24B). Note that on the normal demonstration screen, an effect image (not shown) or the like is appropriately displayed. When the push button 31B is operated after the operation guidance is displayed, the display screen transits from the normal demonstration screen to the parent menu screen (the menu screen is called) (FIG. 24C).

  On the parent menu screen (FIG. 24C), “background customization”, “game customization”, “BGM customization”, “return”, and “RESET” are displayed (the function of each item is as described above). And see also FIG. 24). As shown in FIG. 25, when “background customization” is selected and confirmed in the parent menu, the demo screen transits to a child menu screen for background customization. On the child menu screen, “ground”, “underwater”, “sky”, “return”, and “RESET” are displayed (the functions of each item are as described above. Also, see FIG. 25). As shown in FIG. 26, when “game property customization” is selected and confirmed in the parent menu, the demo screen transitions to a game property customization child menu screen. On the child menu screen, “vibration”, “premier up”, and “pattern heating mode” are displayed together with “ON” and “OFF”, and “return” and “RESET” are also displayed (function of each item). Is as described above, and also see FIG. 26). As shown in FIG. 27, when “BGM customization” is selected and confirmed in the parent menu, the demo screen transitions to a child menu screen for game property customization. On the child menu screen, “song” and “sound effect” are displayed together with “ON” and “OFF”, and “return” and “RESET” are also displayed (the functions of the respective items are as described above. Also, see FIG.

  FIG. 28 shows an effect example in the case where the volume button 31C is not operated in the super reach. In this case, when reach is established, the volume image VL is displayed on the image display device 5 (FIG. 28A), but the volume image VL is erased by the start of super reach (FIGS. 28B and 28C). ), The display of the volume image VL is restarted by the end of the super reach (FIG. 28 (D)).

  FIG. 29 shows an example of the effect in the case where the volume button 31C is operated in the super reach. In this case, the volume image VL is displayed on the image display device 5 when the reach is established (FIG. 29A), but the volume image VL is deleted by the start of the super reach (FIG. 29B). When the volume button 31C is operated, a volume image VL indicating the volume after the change by the operation is displayed (FIG. 29 (C1)). The display of the volume image VL continues for a predetermined period, and is deleted after the predetermined period has elapsed (FIG. 29 (C2)). Then, the display of the volume image VL is restarted by the end of the super reach (FIG. 29D). Note that the volume image VL displayed during the super reach may be displayed in a different mode and / or at a different position from the normal (non-super reach) time.

(Such as the display period of the volume image VL)
FIG. 30A is a timing chart for explaining the display period of the volume image VL in the case where the volume button is not operated in the super reach as in the case of FIG. As shown in FIG. 30A, if the volume button 31C is not operated during the super reach, the volume image Vl is displayed on the image display device 5 except during the super reach.

  FIG. 30B is a timing chart for explaining the display period of the volume image VL when the volume button is operated in super reach as in the case of FIG. 29. As shown in FIG. 30 (B), the volume image VL is displayed on the image display device 5 except during super reach, and when the volume button 31C is operated during super reach, the volume image VL is displayed only for a predetermined period from the operation. The image VL is displayed.

  FIG. 31A is a timing chart for explaining the display period of the volume image VL when the volume button operation is performed immediately before the super reach, and the like. As shown in FIG. 31 (A), the volume image VL is displayed on the image display device 5 except during the super-reach, and when the volume button 31C is operated immediately before the super-reach, only for a predetermined period from the operation. The volume image VL is displayed (the display of the volume image VL is delayed). Note that, as shown in FIG. 31B, the beginning of the predetermined period may be at the start of super reach. Even when the volume button 31C is operated immediately before the start of the super reach, the volume image VL is displayed in an extended manner, and the volume image VL is erased at the start timing of the super reach (the volume image VL after the operation is performed). The display period is shortened).

  FIG. 31C is a timing chart illustrating a display period and the like of the volume image VL when the volume button operation is performed immediately before the end of the super reach. As shown in FIG. 31 (B), the volume image VL is displayed on the image display device 5 except during super reach, and when the volume button 31C is operated immediately before the end of the super reach, the volume image is displayed from the operation. The VL continues to be displayed even if the super reach has ended. Note that, as shown in FIG. 31B, the beginning of the predetermined period may be at the start of super reach. Even when the volume button 31C is operated immediately before the start of the super reach, the volume image VL is displayed in an extended manner, and the volume image VL is erased at the start timing of the super reach (the volume image VL after the operation is operated). The display period is shortened). Thus, even when the display of the volume image VL is started immediately before the end of the super-reach effect, the display of the volume image VL is continued, and the volume image VL is temporarily erased and displayed again after a predetermined period has elapsed after the operation. It is possible to omit useless processing of performing the operation.

  Note that, when the operation of the volume button 31C is continuous, the beginning of the predetermined period is the timing of the last operation of the continuous operation, whereby the display period of the volume image VL can be secured.

(Effects of the present embodiment)
The pachinko gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment can initialize the effect setting during variable display for each setting category (“RESET” of each child menu screen in FIGS. 25 to 27), and display each variable display during parent menu display. The effect settings can be initialized collectively ("RESET" on the parent menu screen in FIG. 24). Therefore, initialization according to the intention of the player can be performed, and the burden on the effect setting (especially, in this case, initialization) of the player can be reduced. In particular, when it is desired to initialize all of the effect settings during variable display, it is not necessary to initialize for each setting category, so that batch initialization is easy. In particular, as in this embodiment, when it is necessary to initialize setting categories on each child menu screen, it is very troublesome to initialize all setting categories. Since items that can be initialized collectively for each setting category are provided on the screen, batch initialization for each setting category can be easily performed. As described above, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to reduce the burden on the player regarding the effect setting (in particular, initialization in this case).

  Further, in the present embodiment, the variable display effect setting that can be changed via the menu screen and the volume setting that can be constantly changed are provided, so that the setting can be changed at appropriate timing (also, the volume setting Because the setting is not through the menu screen, the volume setting can be easily changed.)

  Further, in the present embodiment, when “RESET” is selected and confirmed on the parent menu screen, only the variable display effect setting included in the setting category displayed on the parent menu screen is initialized, and the parent menu screen is displayed. Volumes that are not displayed are not initialized. Thus, it is possible to prevent initialization to a volume not displayed on the parent menu screen. In particular, usually, when initialization is performed from the menu screen, it is recognized that what is displayed on the menu screen is initialized. It will be initialized. Such inconvenience can be solved by not initializing the volume not displayed on the parent menu screen.

  Further, in the present embodiment, as the variable display effect setting, a setting to increase the frequency of execution of the premium effect (setting to turn on “Premier Up”) is possible, and the effect is performed at a frequency according to the preference of the player. Can be performed.

  Also, except during super reach, the volume image VL is displayed on the image display device 5 irrespective of whether or not the volume button 31C is operated, so that the volume image VL can always be visually recognized in a state other than super reach. In addition, during super reach, the volume image VL is made invisible and if the volume button 31C is operated, the volume image VL is displayed based on the operation until a predetermined period has elapsed after the operation. That is, during super reach, the display of the volume image VL can be kept to the minimum necessary. Thereby, it is possible to display the volume image VL according to the player's request (for example, when operating the volume button 31C, the user wants to check the volume with the volume image VL) while suppressing the decrease in the super-reach effect, The interest of the game can be improved.

  In addition, an effect that does not allow the volume image VL to be visually recognized is an effect (here, a super reach effect) that suggests that the player will be in an advantageous state. For this reason, it is possible to display the volume image VL in accordance with the player's request while suppressing a decrease in the effect of the super reach effect, thereby improving the interest of the game.

  Also, as shown in FIG. 28 and FIG. 30, the volume image VL is displayed at a position that does not cover the decorative symbol at the time of the fluctuation stop, so that the final stop symbol of the decorative symbol, that is, does not hinder the visual recognition of the game result. While displaying the volume.

  Further, in the gaming state (second state) during the super-reach effect, the volume image VL is displayed for a predetermined period (or a predetermined period from the start of the display of the volume image VL) after the player detects the operation of the stick controller 31A. The display of the volume image VL can be minimized. This makes it possible to display the volume image VL in accordance with the player's request while suppressing a decrease in the effect of the super reach effect (specific effect), thereby improving the interest of the game.

  When the volume button 31C is operated immediately before shifting to the super reach, that is, when a predetermined period (3 seconds) has not elapsed after the operation of the volume button 31C at the start of the super reach, the display of the volume image VL is performed. Since the display is extended (FIGS. 31A and 31B), the display of the volume image VL can be extended and displayed for a predetermined period even after the super reach is displayed. That is, when the volume button 31C is operated immediately before the start of the super-reach, the volume image VL can be prevented from being erased early at the start timing of the super-reach. This can be prevented from occurring. Further, it is not necessary for the player to operate the volume button 31C again immediately after the super reach is started, so that a user-friendly gaming machine can be provided.

  Conversely, the volume button 31C is operated immediately before the end of the super reach, and the display of the volume image VL is started, and a predetermined period (3 seconds) has not elapsed after the operation of the volume button 31C at the end of the super reach. In this case, since the display of the volume image VL is continued without being deleted even once, the process of deleting the display of the volume image VL after a predetermined period has elapsed can be dispensed with. In other words, since the volume image VL is always displayed except in the super-reach mode, it is possible to eliminate unnecessary processing of once deleting the volume image VL after a predetermined period has elapsed and restarting the display. In addition, it is possible to prevent the display of the volume image VL from being momentarily turned off at the timing when the predetermined period has elapsed, thereby preventing a sense of incongruity.

(Modification)
The present invention is not limited to the above embodiment, and various modifications and applications can be made to the above embodiment. For example, the pachinko gaming machine 1 does not need to have all the technical features shown in the above-described embodiment, and a part described in the above-described embodiment so as to solve at least one problem in the related art. May be provided. Modifications are listed below, but at least some of the following modifications may be combined with each other.

(Modification 1)
At least one of the setting categories may be the effect setting itself. For example, as shown in FIG. 32, the effect setting may be changed for one setting category on the parent menu screen (see “background customization” and “game property customization”). In the example of FIG. 32, the background of “background customization” can be set on the parent menu screen, and the overall big hit expectation of “game customization” can be set on the parent menu screen. At this time, “RESET1” corresponding to “background customization”, “RESET2” and “ALL RESET” corresponding to “game customization” may be displayed on the parent menu screen. At this time, when “RESET1” is selected and confirmed, “background customization” is initialized, and when “RESET2” is selected and confirmed, “game customization” is initialized and “ALL RESET” is selected and confirmed. Then, the variable display effect settings included in the “background customization”, the “game customization”, and the “BGM customization” are initialized collectively. Even in this case, the burden on the player for the initialization can be reduced.

(Modification 2)
The effect control CPU 120 notifies the display control unit 123 of only the start of display of the volume image VL, the deletion thereof, and the change of the display content (change of the volume by operating the volume button 31C), and continues the display of the volume image VL. May be controlled by the display control unit 123 side. Similarly, for the effect (including the demonstration display), the effect control CPU 120 notifies only the start, end, and change of the effect (including the transition of the screen), and displays the effect screen (reproduction of the effect movie, etc.). May be controlled on the display control unit 123 side.

(Modification 3)
The beginning (start timing) of the predetermined period (for example, 3 seconds) when the volume button 31C is continuously operated may be the first operation. However, when the last operation is set as the start timing as in the above embodiment, the display period of the volume image VL can be sufficiently ensured. The display of the volume image VL may be performed until a predetermined period (for example, 3 seconds) has elapsed from the start of the display.

(Modification 4)
As shown in FIG. 33, in addition to the volume image VL, a luminance image IL indicating the current luminance of the display screen or the like of the image display device 5 may be displayed (in this case, the luminance is adjusted). It is better to separately provide a button or the like and perform the same processing as for the volume.) For example, only the luminance image IL may be displayed instead of the volume image VL. In this way, the brightness may be adjusted. A plurality of modes having different execution frequencies of a predetermined notice effect (the pattern effect or the like) are prepared, and a mode display image MD indicating the current mode is displayed instead of the volume image VL as shown in FIG. You may do so. As shown in FIG. 34B, when the mode display image MD is “active”, the execution frequency of the predetermined announcement effect is high, and when the mode display image MD is “normal”, the execution of the predetermined announcement effect is performed. When the frequency is medium and the mode display image MD is “simple”, the execution frequency of the predetermined announcement effect is low. The mode display image MD may be displayed together with at least one of the volume image VL and the luminance image IL. As described above, the effect setting basically always displayed on the screen (for example, the effect setting displayed even during the variable display) is not limited to the sound volume, but may be various. Such effect settings may be changed through the menu screen, such as variable display effect settings, in addition to those that can be constantly changed, such as volume. In addition, you may enable it to change volume, brightness | luminance, etc. via a menu screen. The following description of the volume image VL can also be applied to other displays such as the luminance image IL.

(Modification 5)
When the operation means used on the menu screen and the operation means for changing the volume are the same (for example, when both use the stick controller 31A), the volume image VL is displayed on the menu screen. You may not. This is because the volume image VL is not changed by the operation means.

(Modification 6)
In the above-described embodiment, only the on / off switching of the “vibration” can be performed. However, a setting for changing the execution ratio of the effect of the vibration may be made possible. For example, at the timing when a vibration effect is to be executed, the effect may be executed at a rate of 90% in the first setting, and the effect may be executed at a rate of 10% in the second setting. For example, as in the case of the premier effect, a table having a different determination ratio may be prepared and the execution of the effect of the vibration may be determined. The execution frequency may be three or more in addition to the two levels of high and low. One of the steps may be executed 100% or not executed.

  Regarding the above “song”, when “song” is on, it is a BGM with a song, and when “song” is off, it is a BGM without a song. However, even if the BGM is the same song, it is a different song. Is also good. Specifically, the presence / absence of a song may be switched for the same song by turning on / off the “song”, or the first song with a song and the second song (instrument) without a song may be switched. Good. The player may be able to set BGM, sound effects, and the like from a plurality of things. Note that the selection ratio of which of the plurality of BGMs is selected as the effect sound may be changed as the effect setting.

(Modification 7)
In the above embodiment, the sound volume image VL is erased and cannot be viewed. However, as shown in FIG. 35, the sound volume image VL may be displayed in a manner that is difficult to view. For example, as shown in FIG. 35 (A), the volume image VL is displayed in a translucent display mode, or as shown in FIG. 35 (B), the volume image VL is displayed in a very small and reduced mode (micro display mode). Or you may. In these cases, it is difficult to visually recognize the volume image VL, and the effect of the translucent or minute-sized volume image VL on the display mode of super reach can be reduced. be able to. For example, instead of erasing the volume image VL, control for displaying the volume image VL in a manner that is difficult to view may be performed.

(Modification 8)
Further, it may be notified that the volume adjustment is always possible. For example, as shown in FIG. 36, the fact that volume adjustment is always possible may be notified by a telop display. In FIG. 36 (A), the telop display has a display mode in which the character information “Volume can be adjusted at any time!” Is moved from the right end to the left end of the upper part of the screen of the image display device 5 at a visible speed. Further, as shown in FIG. 36B, the fact that the volume adjustment is always possible may be notified by executing the explanation effect. In FIG. 36 (B), the explanation effect is a display mode in which a character or the like appears on the screen of the image display device 5 and displays character information such as “You can adjust the volume at any time!”. In addition to the telop display or the description effect, a sound indicating the content of the notification such as “the volume can be adjusted at any time!” Or a sound effect related to the notification may be output. Here, the telop display and the description effect display are executed during the variable display, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a telop display or an explanation effect display may be executed during a demonstration display, a jackpot game state, or the like.

  According to such a modification, since the image display device 5 notifies that the volume adjustment is always possible, the player can recognize that the volume adjustment is always possible. In addition to the volume adjustment, it may be notified that the effect setting such as brightness adjustment and mode switching can always be changed. The notification may be, for example, notification during the demonstration display.

(Modification 9)
The display position and size of the variable display of the decorative symbol may be changed in accordance with the progress of the effect (such as the progress of the variable display).

(Modification 10)
In place of or in addition to the super reach, in the big hit game state, the volume image VL may not be displayed unless the volume button 31C is operated. In such a case, the display of the volume image VL may be considered by changing the super reach to the big hit game state. Thus, during the execution of the jackpot effect, which is an example of an effect particularly desired to be shown to the player, the volume image VL can be prevented from being displayed, and the effect of the jackpot effect can be prevented from being reduced. Note that the volume display can be made easy to understand by setting the volume image VL in the same mode when the volume button 31C is operated during the big hit gaming state and when the volume button 31C is not operated during the big hit gaming state. And so on). The display position and / or size of the volume image VL may be different between the two cases. As described above, according to Modification 8, in response to the demand of the player, the effect of the specific effect during the big hit (for example, the round effect during the big hit, the blessing effect during the big hit, etc.) is suppressed, and the effect is suppressed. The volume image VL can be displayed, and the interest of the game can be improved.

  The big hit period (the period in which the volume image VL is not displayed) in the big hit game state is a period in which the attacker is repeatedly opened (opening the big winning opening), that is, a round game period, but is not limited to this. For example, the jackpot period may be a period including a fanfare period, a period in which attackers are repeatedly released (round game period), and an ending period executed at the end of the jackpot game state. In addition, at least one of the three periods may be a big hit period.

(Modification 11)
When an error has occurred in the pachinko gaming machine 1, the volume image VL) may not be displayed. In this case, the error display can be reliably displayed, and it is possible to prevent the error display from being difficult to see or be blocked by the volume image VL.

(Modification 12)
The operation guide may be displayed immediately after the start of the demonstration, or may be displayed after a certain time has elapsed as described above. Thus, it is possible to reduce a sense of incongruity that the game is not performed by the operation guide to the player even though the game ball is flowing down, and it is possible to reduce a decrease in interest of the game. In addition, when there is an operation of switching to the menu screen (operation of the push button 31B) before the display of the operation guide, the operation may be accepted and screen transition to the menu screen may be performed. The production settings can be changed immediately in response to the player's request).

(Modification 13)
A flag which is turned on when the variable display effect setting is changed from the initial setting is prepared in the RAM 122. When the flag is on at the start of the demonstration display, it is determined whether or not the variable display effect setting is initialized at a time. (For example, "YES" that is selected and fixed when initializing, and "No" that is selected and fixed when not initializing, together with a message of "Do you want to initialize?" Screen, or an image notifying that the effect setting has been changed during the variable display may be displayed.) A demo display may be performed on the back of the screen (the rear layer). Normally, in one gaming machine, after the previous player's game, another player plays the game, so if the effect setting during variable display is changed, it is possible to understand what the initial setting is like in the first place. Hateful. It is also assumed that the effect setting during variable display of the previous player does not match the preference of the subsequent player. By providing initialization guidance at the start of the demonstration as in Modification 11, the initialization can be simplified, and the player can easily initialize the effect setting during variable display (reducing the burden on the player concerning the effect setting). it can.). Note that the effect setting for which initialization is guided in this manner may include a setting that is not included in the effect setting during variable display such as volume (in particular, an effect setting that can be changed without going through the menu screen). Since it is difficult for the player after the volume and the like to understand the initial settings, it is preferable that the initialization can be performed as in this modified example. As described above, when a means that allows the player to initialize the effect setting is provided at a stage where the player is expected to change, such as during the execution of the demonstration display, the burden on the player for the effect setting can be reduced.

(Modification 14)
After the start of the demonstration, the operation guidance is not performed when the launch of the game ball is detected by the predetermined launch sensor, and when the launch of the game ball cannot be detected for a specific time, the operation guide is started immediately or after a predetermined time has elapsed. May be. Thereby, similarly to the tenth modification, it is possible to reduce a decrease in interest in the game.

(Modification 15)
Only when the volume button is operated, the volume image VL is displayed for a predetermined period (see FIGS. 37A to 37C. In FIG. 37, the volume is represented by a numeral), and the predetermined value is displayed. When there is a derivation display of the determined decorative symbol during the period, the displayed volume image VL may be erased even during the predetermined period (FIGS. 37D to 37E). With such a configuration, particularly when the displayed volume image VL overlaps (overlaps) with a decorative pattern (including a decorative pattern being variably displayed) as shown in FIG. 37 (this makes the volume stand out). It is effective for Thereby, the visibility of the variable display result (fixed decorative design) to be derived and displayed can be ensured.

(Modification 16)
For the display of the volume, the following display hierarchy order (layer display order) may be set. For example, in the VDP in the display control unit 123 of the effect control board 12, the priority of the display order is set for various display images to be displayed on the image display device 5, and the display images are stored in the memory map in ascending order of the priority. It is possible to generate one frame image (1/30 second) by stacking. Here, the display image of the error display is set as the highest priority of the display order, and the display image of the volume (that is, the layer displaying the volume image VL) is set as the next highest priority of the display order. Then, the priority of the display order such as the display image of the other effect display (for example, the variable display of the ornamental design, the hold display, the reach effect display, the effect display during the big hit, etc.) is determined as the next highest priority of the display order. You may make it set. By setting the priority of the display order in this way, when an error occurs, the display image of the error display has the highest priority, so that it is not hidden by other display images, and the error display can be accurately performed. I can inform you. Further, in a normal gaming state in which no error has occurred, since the priority order of the display image of the volume is higher than that of the other display images, the volume image VL can be displayed in an easily viewable manner. That is, a desired display based on the operation of the player can be displayed most easily. In other words, the display desired by the player can be displayed most easily.

(Modification 17)
In the above-described embodiment and the like, the volume display process is provided independently of the processes of steps S170 to S175 in the effect control process process. However, the volume display process is included in each of the processes of steps S170 to S175. The volume image VL may be hidden during execution of the super-reach in the variable display process, or may be hidden during the big hit effect in the hit display process.

(Modification 18)
When the volume button 31C is operated once during super reach, a volume image VL indicating the current volume (volume not changed by the operation) is first displayed, and the second operation before the volume image VL disappears is performed. The volume may be changed according to the operation.

(Modification 19)
The variable display of the identification information (such as a special figure, a decorative pattern, or a general figure) (may be simply a variable display) includes blinking of the identification information. For example, in a special figure, a pattern in which all the segments are turned off and a pattern in which at least a part of the segments are turned on (for example, a lost pattern) are alternately repeated are also included in the variable display. Note that the special symbol stopped and displayed in the variable display may be a different symbol from the special symbol displayed before (while fluctuating) the stop display (the same applies to the decorative symbol and the normal symbol). For example, when the identification information is variably displayed in seven segments or the like, the middle bar is repeatedly turned on and off during the change, but only the center bar is not derived and displayed as a display result.

(Modification 20)
In the above-described embodiment, in order to notify the effect control board 12 of a change pattern indicating a variable display time (special figure change time) or a variable display mode of a decorative design, one change is made when the variable display is started. Although the example in which the pattern designation command is transmitted has been described, the variation pattern may be notified to the effect control board 12 by two or more commands. Specifically, when the notification is made by two commands, the CPU 103 of the game control microcomputer 100 uses the first command to determine whether or not there is a pseudo-run variation before reaching the reach (if the reach is not reached, the so-called A command indicating a variable display time and a variable display mode (before 2 stops) is transmitted, and the second command is used to indicate the type of reach and the presence or absence of a re-lottery effect. A command indicating the variable display time or the variable display mode (after the so-called second stop) may be transmitted. In this case, in the effect control board 12, for example, the effect control CPU 120 may perform the effect control in the variable display based on the variable display time derived from the combination of the two commands. Note that the game control microcomputer 100 notifies the variable display time by each of the two commands, and a specific variable display mode executed at each timing is selected by the effect control CPU 120. It may be. When transmitting two commands, two commands may be transmitted within the same timer interrupt, or after a predetermined period has elapsed after transmitting the first command (for example, in the next timer interrupt). ) A second command may be transmitted. Note that the variable display mode indicated by each command is not limited to this example, and the order of transmission can be changed as appropriate. By notifying the variation pattern using two or more commands in this manner, the amount of data that must be stored as the variation pattern designation command can be reduced.

(Modification 21)
In addition, including the device configuration and data configuration of the gaming machine, the processing shown in the flowchart, the image display operation in the image display device, the sound output operation in the speaker, and the lighting operation in the light emitting unit, the game effect lamp, and the decoration LED. The various production operations 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 winning. Can also be applied to an enclosed game machine.

(Modification 22)
In the above embodiment, the jackpot type includes “probable change”, and the probability change control condition is established based on the determination result of the jackpot type being “probable change”. It has been described as controlled. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the game ball that has won (entered) the big winning opening (second big winning opening) in the probability changing attacker provided at a predetermined position in the game area is detected by the probability changing detection switch. And the game state after the end of the big hit game state may be controlled to the positive change state. The winning port (second winning port) of the probability change attacker can change from the closed state to the open state when the number of round games executed in the jackpot game state is a predetermined number (for example, “15”). When the number of executions of the game is other than the predetermined number of times, the game may not be changed to the open state in the closed state. As described above, the pachinko gaming machine 1 can establish the certainty control condition based on the fact that the game ball has passed the specific area in the attacker which is an example of the special variable winning device provided in the game area. It may be configured to be as follows.

(Modification 23)
The program and data for realizing the present invention are limited to a form distributed and provided to a computer device included in the gaming machine, such as the pachinko gaming machine 1 or a slot machine, by a removable recording medium. Instead, it may be distributed by being preinstalled in a storage device of a computer device or the like in advance. Furthermore, by providing a communication processing unit, programs and data for implementing the present invention are distributed by downloading from other devices on a network connected via a communication line or the like. It does not matter.

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

(Configuration that can be derived from the above-described embodiment and modified examples)
Hereinafter, configurations disclosed in this specification (the configurations of the above-described embodiments and modified examples are appropriately included in the following configurations) are listed. Note that the present invention is not limited to the following description. Note that the specific configurations, application examples, modifications, and the like described below can also be applied to the above-described embodiments and modifications.

(Configuration 1)
A gaming machine (for example, a pachinko gaming machine 1 or the like) that is capable of changing an effect setting (for example, an effect setting during variable display) by an operation of a player,
When changing the effect setting, a plurality of effect setting categories each including one or more effect settings (eg, a variable display effect setting) (eg, a setting category such as “background customization”, “game customization”, etc.). 24 (C) or a parent menu screen shown in FIG. 32, for example.
The effect setting can be initialized for each of the plurality of effect setting categories by the operation of the player (for example, the selection of “RESET” on the child menu screen of FIGS. 25 to 27 and the confirmation of the parent menu screen of FIG. 32) "RESET1" or "RESET2" selection etc.),
The menu screen is an initialization item that collectively initializes the effect settings included in each of the plurality of effect setting categories when selected by a player's operation (for example, “initial item” in the parent menu screen of FIG. 24C). RESET ”and“ ALL RESET ”of the parent menu screen of FIG. 32) are presented together with the plurality of effect setting categories (see, for example, FIG. 24C and the parent menu screen of FIG. 32).
A gaming machine characterized by that:

  According to this configuration, the burden on the player for initialization can be reduced.

  The configuration for detecting the player's movement is not limited to the stick controller 31A, the push button 31B, and the volume button 31C. There may be a touch panel, or a touch panel or a touch panel capable of performing a pressing operation. Note that a cross button, a jog dial, a touch panel, and the like may be arranged at a predetermined location of the gaming machine. Further, a sensor that can detect any operation not limited to the instruction input operation by the player, such as an infrared sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, a CCD sensor, or a CMOS sensor, may be used. The result of taking an image of a subject such as a player's hand using a predetermined camera may be analyzed (video motion capture) so that any operation can be detected as the predetermined operation. That is, the configuration for detecting the operation by the player may be any configuration that can mechanically, electrically, or electromagnetically detect the operation of the arbitrary object.

  The effect setting may be any setting related to the effect, whether or not the effect is performed, and the frequency of the effect execution (if there are a plurality of stages such as “high” / “low”, “high” / “medium” / “low”). Good)), the type of effect to be executed (in the first setting, a reach effect in which character A appears, and in the second setting, a reach effect in which character B appears), an effect mode, The expectation of a big hit when the same effect is executed (a plurality of stages such as “high” / “low”, “high” / “medium” / “low”) may be used. The configuration of the effect setting during variable display (the configuration for realizing initialization and change) in the above embodiment can be applied to various effect settings. The effect settings may include those in which the current effect setting status (setting status) such as volume and brightness is displayed on the screen.

  As the effect setting, the effect setting of the effect during variable display is exemplified in the above embodiment, but the effect setting may be a setting relating to an effect executed during a big hit, a demonstration display, or the like. Even if the effect setting included in the effect setting category on the menu screen can be changed on the screen displaying the effect setting category (such as “background customization” in FIG. 32), when the effect setting category is selected. (FIGS. 25 to 27, etc.). The initialization of the effect setting for each of the plurality of effect setting categories may be executed when an item displayed on the same screen as the initialization item is selected and confirmed (“RESET1” in FIG. 32). Such).

  In the embodiments and the modifications, the pachinko gaming machine 1 has been described, but the present invention may be applied to a slot machine. For example, the present invention can be appropriately applied to a slot machine that performs a demo display.

(Configuration 2)
The effect settings that can be changed by the operation of the player include a first effect setting (for example, an effect setting during variable display) that is changed when the menu screen is displayed, and whether or not the menu screen is displayed. A second effect setting (for example, volume setting) that can be changed regardless of the
You may do so.

  According to this configuration, the second effect setting can be easily changed.

  The first effect setting and the second effect setting may be any of an effect setting during variable display, a setting relating to an effect or demonstration display performed during a big hit, a setting of luminance, a setting of volume, and the like (the second setting). The first effect setting and the second effect setting may be different types.)

(Configuration 3)
When the initialization item is selected, the first effect setting is initialized, and the second effect setting is not initialized (for example, see FIG. 17).
You may do so.

  According to this configuration, it is possible to prevent initialization up to the second effect setting.

  As another configuration, when “RESET” is selected and confirmed on the parent menu screen, the volume may be initialized. That is, when the initialization item is selected, both the first effect setting and the second effect setting may be initialized. This makes it difficult to understand the initial settings of the volume and the like when the player changes, thereby reducing the burden on the player for initialization.

(Configuration 4)
At least one of the effect setting categories includes an effect setting related to the execution frequency of the effect (for example, an ON setting of “Premier Up”).
You may do so.

  According to this configuration, the effect is executed at a frequency according to the preference of the player, and the interest of the game can be improved.

  In addition to the effects that can be set for the execution frequency, there are various types of effects such as reach effect, notice effect, look-ahead notice (such as look-ahead reservation notice effect that changes the hold display image), effect of movable members, and effect during a big hit, in addition to the premiere effect. It may be the production of.

(Configuration 5)
When changing the effect setting, the setting status of the effect setting (for example, volume image VL or the like) can be displayed,
In the first state (for example, a state where a super-reach or a jackpot effect is not performed), the setting status is displayed so as to be visible regardless of the player's operation,
In a second state (for example, a state in which a super-reach or an effect during a big hit is performed) which is a state different from the first state and executes a specific effect (for example, a super-reach or a large hit effect). The setting status is determined to be difficult or invisible (see, for example, FIGS. 28 and 35), and the setting status is changed based on the operation of the player until a predetermined condition (for example, a predetermined period elapses) is satisfied. Can be displayed (see, for example, FIG. 29).
You may do so.

  According to this configuration, it is possible to display the setting status of the effect setting according to the request of the player while suppressing the effect of the effect of the specific effect, thereby improving the interest of the game.

  The effect setting in which the setting status is displayed may be an effect setting that can be constantly changed such as a volume, or an effect setting that can be changed via a menu screen or the like (such as the above-described variable display effect setting).

  The first state is a state other than the super reach effect, but may be a state before execution of super reach (before start) or a period after execution of super reach (after end). In addition, the first state may be at least one of a period before execution of super reach in one change (before start) or a period after execution of super reach in one change (after end), The second state may be a state during a period in which the super reach in one change is executed.

  The second state may be a special state that tends to be an advantageous state such as a big hit game state. This special state is a probable change state or a time saving state. Further, the special state is a state in which the game ball is frequently changed from the first mode in which the game ball does not win (or may be passed or entered) to the variable winning ball apparatus 6B or the second mode in which it is easy to win the game ball. There may be.

  For example, in the slot machine, the first state is a game state other than the continuous production performed over a plurality of games, or a state such as a demo display and the like, in which an error display is not being performed. , Etc.) (for example, a gaming state during continuous production).

  The specific effects may be a blessing effect during a big hit (character introduction), a promotion effect, a V-prize notification, etc. in the pachinko gaming machine 1, an AT notification (assist time notification), an ART notification (assist replay time) in a slot machine. Notification, a 1G continuous notification of a big hit (one game continuous notification), a continuous notification of a big hit, and the like.

  The “state” in the “state different from the first state” also includes “a state in which variable display is being performed”, “a state in which variable display is not being performed”, and “partial period in variable display”. .

  Further, the detection control of the player's operation performed in a predetermined effect (eg, selection of a song during a big hit) may be given priority over the detection control of the setting situation. In other words, it may not be possible to change the effect setting (for example, to display the status such as volume adjustment, brightness adjustment, mode switching, etc.) during music selection. In particular, this is effective when the same operation means (for example, a cross button or the like) performs an operation for selecting a music piece and an operation for changing an effect setting.

(Configuration 6)
The specific effect is an effect that suggests that the player is in an advantageous state (eg, a super-reach effect in a pachinko game machine, a continuous effect in a slot machine, etc.) or an effect in the advantageous state (eg, a pachinko game) On machines, blessing effects during the big hit (character introduction), promotion effects, V prize notification, etc. For slot machines, AT notification (assist time notification), ART notification (assist replay time notification), big hit 1G continuous notification (1 game continuous notification) ), A big hit continuation notification, etc.).

  According to the above configuration, it is possible to display the setting state of the effect setting according to the player's request while suppressing the effect of the specific effect from being reduced, thereby improving the interest of the game.

(Configuration 7)
The setting state is a position where at least the effect identification information (for example, a decorative pattern or the like) indicating the game result is not covered by the effect identification information when the variable display (variable display) is stopped (when the display result is derived and displayed). (For example, as shown in FIG. 28, the volume status display image VL may be displayed at a position that does not cover the decorative pattern when the fluctuation stops).

  According to the above configuration, it is possible to change the effect setting while not obstructing the visual recognition of the game result.

  As another configuration, as shown in FIG. 37, the setting status is displayed for a predetermined period only when the player changes the effect setting (see FIGS. 37 (A) to (C). In FIG. 37, the sound volume is represented by a numeral.) When there is a derived display of the display result of the variable display of the effect identification information within the predetermined period, even if the displayed setting status is within the predetermined period. It may be turned off (FIGS. 37D to 37E). Such a configuration is particularly effective when the displayed setting situation overlaps (overlaps) with the decoration identification information as the display result derived as shown in FIG. Thereby, the visibility of the display result to be derived and displayed can be ensured.

(Configuration 8)
The predetermined condition may be that a predetermined period elapses from detection of an operation of the player (for example, detection of operation of the volume button 31C) or display start of the setting status.

  According to the above configuration, it is possible to display the setting status of the effect setting according to the player's request while suppressing the effect of the specific effect from being reduced, and to improve the interest of the game.

(Configuration 9)
The first state is at least one of a period before the execution of the specific effect in the variable effect and a period after the execution,
The second state may be a state during a period of executing a specific effect in the variable effect.

  According to the above configuration, it is possible to display the setting state of the effect setting according to the player's request while suppressing the effect of the specific effect from being reduced, thereby improving the interest of the game.

(Configuration 10)
The setting state in the second state may be displayed in the same manner as the display state of the setting state in the first state (for example, FIG. 29).

  According to the above configuration, the display of the setting status in the second state is easy to understand.

(Configuration 11)
Before the transition from the first state to the second state, the setting status based on the action of the player is displayed, and when the predetermined condition is not satisfied when transitioning from the first state to the second state, Alternatively, the display of the setting status may be continued until a predetermined period elapses from the detection of the movement of the player or the shift (for example, FIGS. 31A and 31B).

  According to the above configuration, it is possible to display the setting state of the effect setting according to the player's request while suppressing the effect of the specific effect from being reduced, thereby improving the interest of the game.

(Configuration 12)
Before the transition from the second state to the first state, the setting status based on the operation of the player is displayed. When the predetermined condition is not satisfied when the transition from the second state to the first state is performed, The display of the setting status may be continued even after the transition to the first state (for example, FIG. 31C).

  According to the above configuration, it is possible to display the setting status of the effect setting according to the player's request while suppressing the effect of the specific effect from being reduced, and to improve the interest of the game.

(Configuration 13)
A notification means for notifying that the effect setting can be changed at any time may be provided.

  According to the above configuration, the player can recognize that the effect setting is always possible.

(Configuration 14)
The second state may be an advantageous state that is advantageous to the player (for example, a jackpot gaming state for a pachinko gaming machine, a gaming state during a continuous effect for a slot machine, and the like).

  According to the above configuration, the effect setting of the specific effect (for example, a round effect during a big hit, a blessing effect during a big hit, a continuous effect, etc.) is suppressed, and the setting status of the effect setting according to the player's request is suppressed. Can be displayed, and the interest of the game can be improved.

(Configuration 15)
When the display result of the variable display (variable display) becomes a specific result, it can be controlled to an advantageous state advantageous to the player,
The second state may be a special state that is likely to be the advantageous state (for example, a probable change state or a time saving state).

  According to the above configuration, a reach effect (for example, a super reach effect) in a special effect (for example, a special state (for example, a probable change state or a time saving state) that is likely to be in an advantageous state (for example, a jackpot game state)). The setting status of the effect setting can be displayed according to the player's request while suppressing the effect from being reduced, and the interest of the game can be improved.

(Other)
In the above embodiment, the “proportion” or “probability” at which various determinations are made is 0% (not determined) or 100% (necessarily determined), such as 70:30. May be set so as not to be determined, or at least the possibility of one of the determination results is 0% (not determined) or 100% (always determined). It may be set. For example, in the case where various decisions are made, the ratio of one decision result is higher than the ratio of one decision result among the plurality of decision results. 100% may be included, or the ratio of another determination result may be 0%. When the ratio of the determination result of 1 is 100%, the ratio of the other determination results is 0%. Further, when the ratio of the other decision result is 0%, if the ratio of the 1 decision result is a predetermined ratio other than 100% other than 0%, the ratio of the 1 decision result is the other decision result. Higher than the ratio.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Pachinko gaming machine 2 ... Game board 5 ... Image display device 5L, 5C, 5R ... Decorative design display area 5HR ... 1st hold display part 5HL ... 2nd hold display part 11 ... Main board 12 ... Effect control board 31A ... Stick Controller 100: game control microcomputer 120: effect control CPU
123: display control unit 31A: stick controller 31B: push button 31C: volume button IL: brightness status display image VL: volume image

Claims (1)

It is a gaming machine that can change the effect setting by the operation of the player and can be controlled to an advantageous state advantageous to the player ,
When changing the rendering setup, display means for displaying a menu screen for a plurality presenting rendering setup category comprising one or more of the rendering setup,
Variable display execution means for executing variable display of identification information on the display means,
A setting status display means capable of displaying on the display means the setting status of the rendering setup,
And a notification unit for notifying change of the rendering setup is always possible,
The constructed an effect set can initialize the operation of the player for each of the rendering setup category,
The menu screen is an initialization item for initializing at once the presentation settings included in the presentation assignment categories that are more presented presented with the presentation set category when it is selected by the operation of the player,
The first effect setting that can be changed when the menu screen is displayed, and the second effect that can be changed regardless of whether the menu screen is displayed, as the effect setting that can be changed by the operation of the player Settings, and
The setting status display means includes:
The setting status of the second effect setting can be displayed at a position overlapping with the identification information during the variable display for a predetermined period,
The variable display of the identification information within a predetermined time period has ended when the variable display results are displayed, it erases the setting status of the second rendering setup,
Along with the execution of the special effect with a high degree of expectation controlled to the advantageous state, the setting status of the second effect setting is deleted,
By the action of the player during the execution of the special effect, the setting state of the second effect setting can be displayed until a predetermined condition is satisfied,
A gaming machine characterized by that: