JP6649326B2 - Gaming machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine capable of playing a game.

  A game machine using a NAND flash memory has been proposed in which a data error is corrected and an area where a data error occurs is replaced with a redundant area (for example, Patent Document 1).

JP-A-2006-77819

  According to the technique described in Patent Literature 1, a problem may occur when the data reading time is prolonged.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above situation, and has as its object to provide a gaming machine that prevents occurrence of a problem.

(A) In order to achieve the above object, a gaming machine according to the claims of the present application is a gaming machine capable of playing a game, wherein a storage unit capable of storing data relating to display control, and a storage unit of the storage unit Display control means for reading data and controlling the display means, and signal generation means for generating a time lapse signal when the measurement time has elapsed the monitoring time, wherein the display control means has a function of: Before performing the first control for initializing the measurement time by the signal generating means, and when a predetermined event in which the first control is not performed occurs during a reading period in which data stored in the storage means is read. A second control for initializing a measurement time by the signal generation means before the monitoring time elapses, wherein the storage means includes a normal use area and an alternative use area, Predetermined event, the data stored in the normal use region, a process of storing the alternative use area, the period of the initialization by the first control is different from the period of the initialization by the second control,
It is characterized by the following.
(1) Further, as another game machine, a game can be performed gaming machine (e.g., a pachinko game machine 1), capable of storing memory means data related to the display control (e.g., effect data memory 123) A display control means (for example, CPU 131, VDP 135, etc.) capable of reading the storage data of the storage means and controlling the display means, and a signal generation means for generating a time lapse signal when the measurement time has elapsed the monitoring time (for example, A watchdog timer 134, etc.), and the display control means performs first control (for example, step S273 of the effect data transfer processing during control) for initializing the measurement time by the signal generation means before the monitoring time elapses. And the like, and when a predetermined event occurs in which the first control is not executed, the storage data of the storage unit is read out. A second control for initializing the measurement time by the signal generation means before the monitoring time elapses during the readout period (for example, control in step S281 of the effect data transfer process during control). Is,
It may be characterized .
According to such a configuration, it is possible to prevent occurrence of a problem.

(2) In the gaming machine of the above (1), the storage means may include a normal use area (for example, a data area) and an alternative use area (for example, a redundant area) (for example, see FIG. 13).
In such a configuration, occurrence of a defect can be prevented.

(3) In the gaming machine according to (1) or (2), as the predetermined event, a process of storing data stored in a normal use area of the storage unit in an alternative use area of the storage unit (for example, a memory test) (Step S455 of the process).
In such a configuration, occurrence of a defect can be prevented.

(4) In the gaming machine of any of (1) to (3) above, determination means for determining whether or not the reading period is being performed (for example, the CPU 131 which executes step S271 of the effect data transfer process during control). May be provided.
In such a configuration, occurrence of a defect can be prevented.

(5) The gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (4), further including a sound control unit (for example, a sound processing circuit 136) capable of controlling the output of the effect sound, and the storage unit includes a display control unit. Data and data relating to output control of the production sound are stored as a series of data (for example, moving image data), and the control by the display control means and the control by the voice control means can be executed in synchronization. (See, for example, FIG. 14).
In such a configuration, occurrence of a defect can be prevented.

(6) In the gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (5), after the variable display is started and before the display result is derived, a period during which the control delayed by the occurrence of the predetermined event can be performed ( For example, a period during which the decorative design is displayed in a swinging manner) may be provided.
In such a configuration, occurrence of a defect can be prevented.

(7) In the gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (6), based on the fact that the number of times the measurement time has been initialized by the second control has reached a predetermined number, the measurement time of the signal generation means is reduced. The initialization may be restricted (for example, in the case of Yes in step S280 of the effect data transfer process during control).
In such a configuration, occurrence of a defect can be prevented.

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 a block diagram showing various circuits mounted on the effect control board. It is a flow chart which shows an example of game control process processing. It is a figure showing an example of setting of a change pattern. It is a flow chart which shows an example of production control main processing. It is a flowchart which shows an example of effect control process processing. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a variable display start setting process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the effect processing during variable display. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a memory inspection process under control. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the effect data transfer processing under control. 9 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a memory inspection process. It is a figure showing the example of composition of the storage area in the production data memory. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of moving image data and the like. It is a figure showing an example of composition of production control execution data. FIG. 9 is a sequence diagram illustrating an example of moving image reproduction control. FIG. 9 is a sequence diagram illustrating an example of moving image reproduction control. FIG. 9 is a sequence diagram illustrating an example of moving image reproduction control. It is a sequence diagram showing an example of start winning notification control. It is a sequence diagram showing an example of start winning notification control. It is a figure showing an example of starting winning notification information, etc. It is a sequence diagram showing an example of post-reach effect control. It is a sequence diagram showing an example of post-reach effect control. It is a figure which shows the example of an effect execution after reach. It is a timing chart when updating the remaining time of the operation validity period. It is a sequence diagram showing an example of error notification control. It is a sequence diagram showing an example of error notification control. FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of an error notification execution. It is a sequence diagram showing an example of a notice effect control. It is a sequence diagram showing an example of a notice effect control. It is a figure which shows an example of a notice effect production. It is a timing chart at the time of performing a notice effect.

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

  A first special symbol display device 4A and a second special symbol display device 4B are provided at predetermined positions of the game board 2 (in the example shown in FIG. 1, at the lower right side of the game area). Each of the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B is composed of, for example, a 7-segment or dot matrix LED (light emitting diode), and identifies each of them in a special figure game which is an example of a variable display game. A special symbol (also referred to as a "special figure"), which is a plurality of types of identification information (special identification information), is displayed (variably displayed) in a variable manner. For example, each of the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B variably displays a plurality of types of special symbols including numbers indicating “0” to “9”, symbols indicating “−”, and the like. I do. Note that the special symbols displayed on the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B are limited to those composed of numbers indicating "0" to "9", symbols indicating "-", and the like. Instead, for example, a plurality of types of lighting patterns in which a combination of a 7-segment LED to be turned on and a light to be turned off may be set in advance as a plurality of types of special symbols. Hereinafter, the special symbol variably displayed on the first special symbol display device 4A is also referred to as “first special symbol”, and the special symbol variably displayed on the second special symbol display device 4B is also referred to as “second special symbol”. .

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

  As an example, in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R arranged on the screen of the image display device 5, the decorative symbols corresponding to each are variably displayed. In this case, in the special figure game, one of the change of the first special figure by the first special symbol display device 4A and the change of the second special figure by the second special symbol display device 4B is started. , "Left", "middle", and "right" in the decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R. After that, when the fixed special symbol is stopped and displayed as a variable display result in the special figure game, the decorative symbol is changed in the decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R of "left", "medium", and "right". The final decorative symbol (final stop symbol) as a display result is stopped and displayed.

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

  The decorative symbols variably displayed in the decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R of "left", "middle", and "right" include, for example, eight types of symbols (alphanumeric characters "1" to "8" or Chinese numerals). Or, an English character, eight character images related to a predetermined motif, a combination of numbers and characters or symbols and character images, etc., may be a character image, for example, a person or an animal, an object other than these, or Any symbol, such as a character, or any other decorative image indicating an arbitrary figure) may be used. Each of the decorative symbols is assigned a corresponding symbol number. For example, symbol numbers "1" to "8" are assigned to alphanumeric characters indicating "1" to "8", respectively. The number of decorative patterns is not limited to eight, but may be any number (for example, seven or nine) as long as an appropriate number of combinations such as a big hit combination and a lossy combination can be configured.

  After the variable display of the decorative symbol is started, before the determined decorative symbol as the variable display result is derived and displayed, each of the decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R of "left," "middle," and "right." In the display, for example, scroll display is performed such that the symbol numbers sequentially flow from upper to lower, from small to large, and when the decorative symbol with the maximum symbol number (for example, “8”) is displayed, Thus, the decorative symbol having the smallest symbol number (for example, “1”) is displayed. Alternatively, in at least one of the decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R (for example, the “left” decorative symbol display area 5L, etc.), scroll display is performed from a symbol with a larger symbol number to a symbol with a smaller symbol number. When the decorative symbol having the smallest number is displayed, the decorative symbol having the largest symbol number may be subsequently displayed.

  On the screen of the image display device 5, a start winning storage display area 5H is arranged. In the start winning prize storage display area 5H, a hold display is performed in which a variable display hold number (special figure hold storage number) corresponding to the special figure game can be specified. Here, the suspension of the variable display corresponding to the special figure game is such that the game ball passes through the first starting winning opening formed by the normal winning prize ball device 6A or the second starting winning opening formed by the normal variable winning prize ball device 6B. This occurs based on a start winning prize due to (entering). That is, a start condition (also referred to as an “execution condition”) for executing a variable display game such as a special figure game or a variable display of a decorative symbol is satisfied, but the variable display game based on the previously established start condition is being executed. Due to the fact that the pachinko gaming machine 1 is controlled to the big hit gaming state, when the start condition allowing the start of the variable display game is not established, the suspension of the variable display corresponding to the established start condition is performed. Done.

  For example, when the first start winning prize in which the game ball passes (enters) the first start winning opening, the start condition of the special figure game using the first special figure by the first special symbol display device 4A (the first start condition) ) Is satisfied, if the first start condition for starting the special figure game using the first special figure based on the establishment of the first start condition is not satisfied, the first special figure reserved storage number is 1 The addition (increment) is performed, and the execution of the special figure game using the first special figure is suspended. In addition, the occurrence of the second start winning where the game ball passes (enters) the second start winning opening, the start condition of the special figure game using the second special figure by the second special symbol display device 4B (the second start condition) ) Is satisfied, if the second start condition for starting the special figure game using the second special figure based on the establishment of the second start condition is not satisfied, the second special figure reserved storage number is 1 The addition (increment) is performed, and execution of the special figure game using the second special figure is suspended. On the other hand, when the execution of the special figure game using the first special figure is started, the first special figure reserved storage number is decremented by 1, and the execution of the special figure game using the second special figure is performed. Is started, the second special figure reserved storage number is decremented by one. The hold display in the start prize storage display area 5H is based on information (hold storage information) relating to the variable display that has not been started yet, such as the first special figure hold storage number and the second special figure hold storage number, and the number of the hold is displayed. Display identifiable.

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

  A display may be provided for displaying the number of special figure reserved storages together with the start winning storage display area 5H or instead of the start winning storage display area 5H. In the example shown in FIG. 1, the first special symbol display device 4 </ b> A and the upper part of the second special symbol display device 4 </ b> B, together with the start winning prize storage display area 5 </ b> H, are used for the first reservation for displaying the number of special figure reservation storages in a identifiable manner. An indicator 25A and a second hold indicator 25B are provided. The first reservation display 25A displays the first special figure reservation storage number in a identifiable manner. The second reservation display 25B displays the second special figure reservation storage number in a identifiable manner. The first reservation display 25A and the second reservation display 25B each have a number (for example, four) corresponding to the upper limit (for example, “4”) in each of the first special figure reservation storage number and the second special figure reservation storage number, respectively. ) LEDs.

  On the upper part of the image display device 5, a circular effect lighting accessory 90 is provided. A luminous body such as a lamp or an LED is built in the effect lighting accessory 90. The effect lighting accessory 90 may be configured to be rotatable, for example, and to be lit when rotating (moving). Around the image display device 5, such as an upper portion and a lower portion of the image display device 5, a plurality of effect models (producing accessory devices) that can advance to the front of the display screen of the image display device 5 and be united. Direction movable members 32A and 32B are provided. These effect movable members 32A and 32B are used as effect models for executing a predetermined effect by advancing to the front of the display screen of the image display device 5 and uniting during the variable display of the decorative pattern. .

  Below the image display device 5, a normal winning ball device 6A and a normal variable winning ball device 6B are provided. The normal winning prize ball device 6A forms a first starting winning opening as a starting area (first starting area) that is always kept in a fixed open state by a predetermined ball receiving member, for example. The normally variable winning ball device 6B is an electric motor having a pair of movable wing pieces that change between a normal open state, which is a vertical position, and an enlarged open state, which is a tilt position, by a solenoid 81 for a normal electric accessory shown in FIG. A tulip-type accessory (ordinary electric accessory) is provided, and a start area (second start area) forms a second start winning port.

  As an example, in the ordinary variable winning prize ball device 6B, the game ball passes (enters) the second starting winning opening by the movable wing piece being in the vertical position when the solenoid 81 for the ordinary electric accessory is in the off state. Do not close. On the other hand, in the ordinary variable winning ball device 6B, the game ball passes through the second starting winning opening by entering the second starting winning opening by the movable wing piece being in the tilting position when the solenoid 81 for the ordinary electric accessory is in the ON state. ) To make it open. The normally variable winning prize ball device 6B is normally open when the solenoid 81 is off, and the game ball can enter (pass) the second starting winning opening while the solenoid 81 is on. You may comprise so that a game ball may not enter (pass) more easily than an open state. As described above, the normally variable winning prize ball device 6B has the first variable state such as the open state or the enlarged open state in which the game ball easily passes (enters) the second starting winning opening, and the game ball cannot pass (enter). It is configured to be able to change to a second variable state such as a closed state or a normally open state that is difficult to pass (enter).

  A game ball that has passed (entered) a first starting winning opening formed in the normal winning ball device 6A is detected by, for example, a first starting port switch 22A shown in FIG. A game ball that has passed (entered) the second starting winning opening formed in the normal variable winning ball device 6B is detected by, for example, the second starting opening switch 22B shown in FIG. Based on the detection of the game balls by the first start port switch 22A, a predetermined number (for example, three) of game balls are paid out as prize balls, and the first special figure reserved storage number becomes a predetermined upper limit value (for example, “ 4)) If it is less than or equal to, the first start condition is satisfied. Based on the detection of the game ball by the second starting port switch 22B, a predetermined number (for example, three) of game balls are paid out as prize balls, and the second special figure reserved storage number is set to a predetermined upper limit value (for example, “ 4)) If not, the second start condition is satisfied.

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

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

  As an example, in the special variable winning 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 passes (enters) the special winning opening. become unable. 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 special winning opening, and the game ball passes through the special winning opening (enters). ) In this way, the special winning opening as the specific area changes between an open state in which the game balls easily pass (enter), which is advantageous for the player, and a closed state in which the game balls cannot pass (enter), which is disadvantageous for the player. I do. In addition, instead of the closed state in which the game ball cannot pass (enter) the special winning opening, or in addition to the closed state, a partially open state in which the game ball hardly passes (enter) the special winning opening may be provided.

  A game ball that has passed (entered) the special winning opening is detected by, for example, the count switch 23 shown in FIG. Based on the detection of the game balls by the count switch 23, a predetermined number (for example, 15) of game balls are paid out as prize balls. In this way, when the game ball passes through (enters) the large winning opening that has been opened in the special variable winning ball device 7, the gaming ball passes through another winning opening, for example, the first starting winning opening or the second starting winning opening. More prize balls are paid out than when passing (entering). Therefore, when the special winning opening is opened in the special variable winning ball device 7, the game ball can enter the special winning opening, and the first state is advantageous to the player. On the other hand, if the special winning opening is closed in the special variable winning ball device 7, it becomes impossible or difficult to obtain a prize ball by passing (entering) a game ball into the special winning opening. The second state is disadvantageous.

  At a predetermined position of the game board 2 (in the example shown in FIG. 1, on the left side of the game area), a normal symbol display 20 is provided. As an example, the ordinary symbol display device 20 is composed of a 7-segment or dot-matrix LED or the like like the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B, and a plurality of types of identification information different from the special symbol. Is variably displayed (variably displayed). Such a variable display of ordinary symbols is called an ordinary game (also referred to as a “normal game”). Above the ordinary symbol display 20, there is provided an ordinary symbol holding display 25 </ b> C. The general-purpose reservation indicator 25C is configured to include, for example, four LEDs, and displays the general-purpose reserved storage number as the number of effective passing balls that have passed through the passage gate 41.

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

  Speakers 8L and 8R for reproducing and outputting sound effects and the like are provided at upper left and right positions of the gaming machine frame 3, respectively. A game effect lamp 9 is provided around the game area. Around each structure (for example, the normal prize ball device 6A, the normal variable prize ball device 6B, the special variable prize ball device 7, the frame member arranged on the periphery of the image display device 5, and the like) in the game area of the pachinko gaming machine 1. , A decorative LED may be arranged. At the lower right position of the gaming machine frame 3, a hit ball operation handle (operation knob) is provided. The hit ball operation handle is operated by a player or the like to shoot a game ball as a game medium toward a game area. For example, the resilience of a game ball can be adjusted according to the operation amount (rotation amount) of a hit ball operation handle by a player or the like. The hitting operation handle may be provided with a single-shot firing switch for stopping driving of a firing motor included in the hitting ball firing device, or a touch ring (touch sensor).

  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.

  For example, a stick controller 31A that can be gripped and tilted by a player is attached to a member that forms the lower plate, for example, at a predetermined position on the near side on the upper surface of the lower plate main body (for example, the center portion of the lower plate). I have. The stick controller 31A includes an operation rod held by the player, and a trigger button is provided at a predetermined position of the operation rod (for example, a position where the index finger of the operator's hand is hooked when the player grips the operation rod). I have. The trigger button can perform a predetermined instruction operation by performing a push-pull operation with a predetermined operation finger (for example, an index finger or the like) in a state where the player holds the operation rod of the stick controller 31A with an operation hand (for example, a left hand). What is necessary is just to be comprised as follows. A trigger sensor for detecting a push / pull operation on a trigger button as a player's operation may be provided inside the operation stick.

  The controller sensor unit 35A shown in FIG. 2 may be provided inside the lower plate body below the stick controller 31A. The controller sensor unit 35A only needs to include a tilt direction sensor unit that detects a tilt operation on the operation stick as a player's operation. For example, the tilt direction sensor unit includes two transmission-type photosensors (parallel sensors) disposed parallel to the game board 2 on the left side of the center position of the operation stick when viewed from the side of the player facing the pachinko gaming machine 1. Pair) and two transmission-type photosensors (vertical sensor pairs) that are arranged on the right side of the center position of the operation stick as viewed from the player side and perpendicular to the board surface of the game board 2. What is necessary is just to be comprised including a photosensor.

  The member forming the upper plate includes, for example, a push button 31B 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, which allows a player to perform a predetermined instruction operation by a pressing operation or the like. Is provided. The push button 31B may be configured to be able to mechanically, electrically, or electromagnetically detect a predetermined instruction operation such as a pressing operation from a player. The push sensor 35B shown in FIG. 2 may be provided inside the body of the upper plate at the installation position of the push button 31B. The push sensor 35B detects a pressing operation on the push button 31B as an operation of the player. When an operation by the player is detected, the stick controller 31A or the push button 31B changes the display effect of the image display device 5 or controls the speakers 8L and 8R under the control of the effect control board 12 shown in FIG. Anything may be used as long as it is used in an effect in which a sound output (flashing operation) of a light emitting body such as the game effect lamp 9 or the effect lighting accessory 90 is performed.

  The pachinko gaming machine 1 is mounted with various control boards such as a main board 11, an effect control board 12, a lamp driver board 13, and a motor driver board 14 as shown in FIG. The pachinko gaming machine 1 is also provided with a relay board 15 for relaying various control signals transmitted between the main board 11 and the effect control board 12. In addition, various boards such as a payout control board, an information terminal board, a launch control board, and an interface board are arranged on a back surface of the gaming board 2 and the like in the pachinko gaming machine 1.

  The main board 11 is a control board on the main side, on which various circuits for controlling the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1 are mounted. The main board 11 is mainly directed to a sub-side control board including a function of setting a random number used in the special figure game, a function of inputting a signal from a switch or the like disposed at a predetermined position, and an effect control board 12. And a function of outputting and transmitting a control command as an example of command information as a control signal, and a function of outputting various information to a hall management computer. In addition, the main board 11 controls lighting and extinguishing of each LED (for example, segment LED) constituting the first special symbol display device 4A and the second special symbol display device 4B to perform the first special symbol or the second special symbol. A predetermined display pattern, such as controlling the variable display of a special figure, and controlling the variable display of the normal pattern by the normal pattern display 20 by performing lighting control and turning-off control or coloring control of the normal pattern display 20. It also has a function to control the variable display.

  The main board 11 includes, for example, a game control microcomputer 100, a switch circuit 110 which takes in detection signals from various switches for detecting game balls and transmits the signals to the game control microcomputer 100, and a signal from the game control microcomputer 100. A solenoid circuit 111 for transmitting a solenoid drive signal to the solenoids 81 and 82 is mounted.

  The effect control board 12 is a sub-side control board independent of the main board 11, receives a control signal transmitted from the main board 11 via the relay board 15, and displays the image display device 5 and the speakers 8L and 8R. Various circuits for controlling the progress of the production by the production electric components such as the game effect lamp 9, the production lighting accessory 90, and the production movable members 32A and 32B are mounted. That is, the effect control board 12 controls the display mode on the image display device 5 or all or a part of the lighting mode on the gaming effect lamp 9, the effect lighting accessory 90, and other decorative LEDs, and the sound from the speakers 8 L and 8 R. It has a function of determining control contents for causing a production electric component to execute a predetermined production operation, such as all or a part of an output mode and all or a part of the operation of the production movable members 32A and 32B. .

  The lamp driver board 13 is a board for generating a lamp drive signal provided separately from the effect control board 12, and based on the lamp control signal from the effect control board 12, the game effect lamp 9 and the effect lighting role 90. It is only necessary to include a driver circuit or the like that generates a drive signal that enables switching between turning on and off of the decoration LED and the like. The motor driver board 14 is a board for generating a motor drive signal that is provided separately from the effect control board 12, and based on the motor control signal from the effect control board 12, rotates and stops the movable member drive motors 33A and 33B. It is only necessary to include a driver circuit that generates a drive signal that can switch the rotation speed, rotation angle (phase), and the like. The movable member drive motor 33A may be connected to the effect movable member 32A via a predetermined link mechanism, and may supply power that can change the operation and the position of the effect movable member 32A. The movable member drive motor 33B may be connected to the effect movable member 32B via a predetermined link mechanism, and may be capable of supplying power that can change the operation and position of the effect movable member 32B.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the main board 11 is connected to wiring for transmitting detection signals from the gate switch 21, the first starting port switch 22A, the second starting port switch 22B, and the count switch 23. The gate switch 21, the first starting port switch 22A, the second starting port switch 22B, and the count switch 23 have an arbitrary configuration capable of detecting a game ball as a game medium, such as a sensor called a sensor. Should be fine. In addition to the gate switch 21, the first starting port switch 22A, the second starting port switch 22B, and the count switch 23, other switches connected to the main board 11 (for example, a switch for detecting the open / closed state of the glass door, the game board 2 itself) A switch for detecting the open / closed state of the device, a switch for detecting an unauthorized vibration, and a switch for detecting an unauthorized electromagnetic wave. The main board 11 includes a first special symbol display device 4A, a second special symbol display device 4B, a normal symbol display device 20, a first reservation display device 25A, a second reservation display device 25B, and a general diagram reservation display device 25C. Wiring for transmitting a command signal for performing display control is connected.

  The control signal transmitted from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12 is relayed by the relay board 15. The control command transmitted from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12 via the relay board 15 is, for example, an effect control command transmitted and received as an electric signal. The effect control commands include, for example, a display control command used to control image display contents on the image display device 5, an audio control command used to control audio output from the speakers 8L and 8R, and a game effect lamp 9. Control commands used to control the lighting mode of the lighting device 90 and other decorative LEDs, and the motor control commands used to control the operation of the movable member drive motors 33A and 33B, and the like. Have been.

  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 for storing a game control program and fixed data, and a game control work. A RAM (Random Access Memory) 102 that provides an area, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 103 that executes a game control program to perform a control operation, and updates numerical data indicating a random number value independently of the CPU 103. It comprises a random number circuit 104 for performing the operation and an input / output port (I / O) 105. The ROM 101 only needs to be configured as a read-only semiconductor memory.

  As an example, in the game control microcomputer 100, the CPU 103 executes a program read from the ROM 101 to execute processing for controlling the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1. At this time, a fixed data reading operation in which the CPU 103 reads fixed data from the ROM 101, a variable data writing operation in which the CPU 103 writes and temporarily stores various variable data in the RAM 102, and various variable data temporarily stored in the RAM 102 Reading operation, CPU 103 receiving an input of various signals from the outside of the game control microcomputer 100 via the I / O 105, CPU 103 moving out of the game control microcomputer 100 via the I / O 105 And a transmission operation for outputting various signals. The random number circuit 104 only needs to count numerical data indicating a part or all of various random numbers used for controlling the progress of the game.

  On the main board 11, numerical data indicating various random numbers used for controlling the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1 is counted in an updatable manner. Such random numbers used to control the progress of the game are also called game random numbers. The game random number may be generated by the random number circuit 104 of the game control microcomputer 100 or a game random counter provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 102. As described above, the game random number may be partially or entirely updated by hardware such as the random number circuit 104, or the CPU 103 of the game control microcomputer 100 may execute a predetermined computer program. The software may be partially or entirely updated by software.

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

  FIG. 3 shows a configuration example of various circuits mounted on the effect control board 12. The effect control board 12 shown in FIG. 3 includes an input circuit 121, a memory controller 122, an effect data memory 123, a CPU 131, a ROM 132, a RAM 132, a watchdog timer 134, a VDP 135, a sound processing circuit 136, a lamp control circuit 137, and a motor control circuit. 138 are mounted. The VDP 135 includes an instruction decoder 141, a demultiplexer 142, a video decoder 143, a VRAM 144, and a display drive circuit 145. The audio processing circuit 136 includes an audio decoder 151. Part or all of the configuration shown in FIG. 3 may be included in the effect control microcomputer. For example, a microprocessor for effect control in which the CPU 131, the VDP 135, the audio processing circuit 136, the lamp control circuit 137, and the motor control circuit 138 are integrated may be used.

  The input circuit 121 may include a buffer circuit or the like for receiving the effect control command transmitted from the main board 11 via the relay board 15. The memory controller 122 executes various processes on the data stored in the effect data memory 123 in response to a request signal supplied from the CPU 131 or the VDP 135. The effect data memory 123 previously stores various image data (image element data) indicating a display image on the image display device 5. The image data stored in the effect data memory 123 may include still image data and moving image data. As the still image data, sprite image data serving as a plurality of types of image element data corresponding to a plurality of types of effect images such as a plurality of types of decorative patterns variably displayed on the screen of the image display device 5 may be prepared. . In addition, the character data displayed on the screen of the image display device 5, specifically, a person, a character, a figure or a symbol, and image data of a background image may be stored in the effect data memory 123 in advance. In addition to the image data, the effect data memory 123 only needs to store part or all of audio data used for audio output by the speakers 8L and 8R. The effect data memory 123 only needs to store part or all of the lamp drive data used for driving the game effect lamp 9, the effect lighting accessory 90, and other decorative LEDs. The effect data memory 123 only needs to store part or all of the motor drive data used for rotationally driving the movable member drive motors 33A and 33B. The effect data memory 123 may be any nonvolatile semiconductor memory, such as a NAND flash memory, which can be electrically erased, written, or rewritten. However, in a normal use state in which the progress of the effect in the pachinko gaming machine 1 is controlled, the effect data memory 123 is used as a read-only storage device. For example, when a 512-byte sector is the minimum unit of data transfer, the memory controller 122 only needs to be able to read data having a size of an integral multiple of 512 bytes from the effect data memory 123. What is necessary is just to be writable.

  The memory controller 122 reads, from the effect data memory 123, sector data corresponding to the request signal from the CPU 131. The memory controller 122 only needs to be able to perform error detection and error correction on the read sector data. In the error detection of the sector data, the number of error bits and the error bit position are specified. At this time, it is determined whether error correction is possible. If error correction is possible, it is sufficient if the error correction is executed and the sector data can be transferred and stored in the RAM 133, the VRAM 144, or the like. The effect data memory 123 only needs to store management information of the erase unit block. The erasing unit block is an erasing unit when erasing data stored in the effect data memory 123. The management information of the erasing unit block may include information indicating the number of times of the erasing process executed in each erasing unit block. The memory controller 122 reads the management information of the erase unit block including the sector data, and determines whether or not to refresh (data refresh) the memory cell of the sector data in the effect data memory 123 based on the information of the number of error bits and the like. I do.

  In the effect data memory 123, memory cells are degraded due to factors such as erasure of stored data and read disturb. The read disturb occurs when the number of times of reading data stored in the effect data memory 123 increases, the electrons stored in the floating gate of the memory cell are gradually extracted, and the threshold voltage of the transistor changes. . Also, even when read disturb does not occur, electrons accumulated in the floating gate of the memory cell are gradually released at an extremely slow speed, and data retention that changes the threshold voltage of the transistor may occur. is there. Deterioration of a memory cell due to read disturb or data retention can be recovered by refreshing the memory cell. Deterioration of a memory cell due to erasure of stored data may reduce the life expectancy of the memory cell, and the memory cell may not be able to recover even if refreshed. In this case, a block including a memory cell that has become unrecoverable is determined as a defective block (defective area), and a substitute process of transferring data to a separately provided substitute block (substitute area) is performed.

  The CPU 131 executes control processing according to a computer program for effect control. The ROM 132 stores an effect control program, fixed data, and the like. The RAM 133 provides a work area for the CPU 131. The watchdog timer 134 has a counter circuit that counts up or counts down based on the setting of an internal register. When a measurement time elapses a monitoring time (timeout time) and a time out occurs, the watchdog timer 134 becomes a time elapse signal. Generate a signal. The timeout signal may be any signal that causes the CPU 131 to be reset and restarted. The activation method of the watchdog timer 134 may be set by a reset setting stored in the program management area of the ROM 132. The watchdog timer 134 only needs to be able to enable or disable the reset operation due to the elapse of the timeout time according to the WDT start data stored in the WDT start register included in the built-in register. The watchdog timer 134 clears the count value stored in the counter circuit and restarts the count operation by sequentially writing a plurality of WDT clear data into the WDT clear register included in the built-in register. The CPU 131 can clear and restart the watchdog timer 134 by periodically setting the WDT clear data in the WDT clear register. On the other hand, if a delay occurs in the processing of the CPU 131 due to some kind of failure and the watchdog timer 134 cannot be cleared, and the measurement time has elapsed the monitoring time, a timeout signal is generated and the CPU 131 is reset.

  The CPU 131 executes a process for controlling the progress of the effect by the effect electric components in accordance with the effect control program read from the ROM 132. This processing includes, for example, a fixed data reading process in which the CPU 131 reads fixed data from the ROM 132, a variable data writing process in which the CPU 131 writes various variable data in the RAM 133, and temporarily stores the variable data. Data fluctuation processing for reading out fluctuation data, reception processing in which the CPU 131 receives input of various signals from the outside, transmission processing in which the CPU 131 outputs various signals to the outside, or a part or all of these processing. Is also good.

  The ROM 132 stores, in addition to the effect control program, various data tables used for controlling the effect operation. For example, the ROM 132 stores a plurality of determination tables prepared for the CPU 131 to perform various determinations, determinations, and settings, table data configuring a determination table, and pattern data configuring various effect control patterns. I have. The effect control pattern includes effect control execution data (display control data, voice control data, lamp control data, motor control data, operation detection control data, and the like) associated with the effect control process timer determination value, an end code, and the like. It consists of process data. Part or all of the effect control pattern and the effect control execution data may be configured as a display list. The display list is data of a command group in which a series of transfer commands to be executed by the VDP 135 are described in accordance with the order of image processing. The display list may include a group of display control instructions, a group of audio control instructions, a group of lamp control instructions, and a group of motor control instructions. By controlling the progress of the effect using such a display list, it is only necessary to be able to control the electric components for the effect in cooperation. The RAM 133 stores programs and various data used to control the electrical components for the effect. The CPU 131 only needs to be able to read out the programs and data stored in the RAM 133 in a reading time shorter than the reading time of the programs and data stored in the ROM 132.

  The VDP 135 determines the control content of image display on the image display device 5 based on a display control command from the CPU 131, register setting, and the like. For example, the VDP 135 performs control for executing variable display of decorative symbols and various effect displays by determining the timing of switching effect images to be displayed on the screen of the image display device 5. The VDP 135 is an image processor having an image data processing function such as a high-speed drawing function, a moving image data separation function, and a video decoding function. The VDP 135 may be a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), a GCL (Graphics Controller LSI), or a microprocessor for image processing more generally called a DSP (Digital Signal Processor).

  The VDP 135 may be configured to include the instruction decoder 141, the demultiplexer 142, the video decoder 143, the VRAM 144, and the display drive circuit 145. The command decoder 141 decodes a command portion (command code) included in the display control command from the CPU 131, and instructs image processing or the like according to the decoding result. For example, a display control command group included in the decoding result is supplied to an internal circuit of the VDP 135. Further, the command group for voice control included in the decoding result may be supplied to the voice processing circuit 136. The command group for lamp control included in the decoding result may be supplied to the lamp control circuit 137. The command group for motor control included in the decoding result may be supplied to the motor control circuit 138. The demultiplexer 142 receives the moving image data read from the effect data memory 123, separates the data into video data and audio data, and outputs them. The video data output from the demultiplexer 142 is input to the video decoder 143. The audio data output from the demultiplexer 142 is input to the audio decoder 151 of the audio processing circuit 136. The video decoder 143 expands and outputs the compressed and encoded video data. Video data output from the video decoder 143 is stored in a predetermined area of the VRAM 144. The VRAM 144 temporarily stores image data and provides a work area for image data processing by the VDP 135. The VRAM 144 may be provided with various areas such as a pallet area where pallet data is arranged, a character buffer where character image data is stored, and a CG buffer. The CG buffer temporarily stores pallet data in which the display color of the character is defined when the drawing process is performed by the VDP 135, and temporarily stores the display data of the effect image created by the drawing process. Or used to

  A frame buffer is provided inside the VRAM 144 or in a memory module separate from the VRAM 144. The frame buffer provides a virtual display area in which display data and the like of effect images created by the drawing processing by the VDP 135 are developed and stored. The display data stored in the frame buffer may be, for example, pixel data (raster data) created by the VDP 135 based on vector data (vector data) such as points, lines, and polygons. In the frame buffer, for example, an actual display area for storing display data of various images displayed on the screen of the image display device 5 and display data of various images not displayed on the screen of the image display device 5 are stored. May be included. Alternatively, display data for performing screen display of the same size as the display screen of the image display device 5 is created in the virtual display area of the frame buffer, and the display data of the virtual display area read by the VDP 135 is displayed. The information may be supplied to the image display device 5 by being supplied to the image display device 5. An image display area and an image drawing area are allocated to the storage area of the frame buffer. In the image display area, display data for displaying an effect image on the screen of the image display device 5 is stored. In the image drawing area, display data of each effect image created by the drawing process is stored. The image display area and the image drawing area may be switched each time a V blank occurs. The V blank occurs in a cycle for updating an image displayed on the screen of the image display device 5. Every time the V blank is started, a V blank interrupt signal is output from the VDP 135 to the CPU 131, and various other interrupt signals are output from the VDP 135 to the CPU 131. By switching between the image display area and the image drawing area each time a V blank occurs, display data of each effect image is created in a storage area allocated as an image drawing area in a certain V blank cycle (first drawing display period). This storage area is switched to the image display area in the next V blank cycle (second drawing display period). Therefore, the display data created by the drawing process in the first drawing display period is output to the image display device 5 in the second drawing display period, and the image drawing area is allocated in the second drawing display period. In the storage area, the display data created by the drawing process is stored.

  The display drive circuit 145 is a circuit for outputting a signal for displaying various images on the screen of the image display device 5. The display drive circuit 145 outputs a predetermined clock signal (dot clock signal) and a scanning signal (drive control signal) to the image display device 5 together with a color signal (gradation control signal) corresponding to the display data created by the VDP 135. I just need.

  The audio processing circuit 136 generates an audio signal that enables audio output using the speakers 8L and 8R based on commands and register settings from the CPU 131 and the VDP 135. The audio data output from the demultiplexer 142 of the VDP 135 is input to the audio decoder 151 of the audio processing circuit 136. The audio decoder 151 expands the compression-encoded audio data to generate an audio signal. Further, the audio processing circuit 136 may include an audio data memory capable of storing audio data not included in the moving image data in advance. The audio processing circuit 136 may generate an audio signal by expanding the audio data read from the audio data memory based on a command or register setting from the CPU 131 or the VDP 135.

  The lamp control circuit 137 controls a lighting mode (light emitting mode) such as lighting, extinguishing, and blinking of a light emitting member such as the gaming effect lamp 9, the effect lighting accessory 90, and other decorative LEDs. The lamp control circuit 137 generates lamp control data based on commands and register settings from the CPU 131 and the VDP 135, and outputs the generated data to the lamp driver board 13. The motor control circuit 138 controls operation states such as rotation, stop, rotation speed, and rotation angle (phase) of the movable member drive motors 33A and 33B. The motor control circuit 138 generates motor control data based on commands and register settings from the CPU 131 and the VDP 135 and outputs the data to the motor driver board 14.

  In the effect control board 12, numerical data indicating various random numbers used to control the progress of the effect is counted in an updatable manner. Such random numbers used to control the progress of the effect are also referred to as effect random numbers. The effect random number may be generated by a random number circuit built in or attached to the effect control microcomputer, or by an effect random counter provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 133. As an example, on the side of the effect control board 12, numerical data indicating various random numbers for determining various effects such as a random value for determining a stop symbol and a random value for determining an announcement effect in the variable display of a decorative symbol can be counted. Is controlled.

  In the pachinko gaming machine 1, a predetermined game using a game ball as a game medium is performed, and a predetermined game value can be given based on the game result. As an example of a game using a game ball, a predetermined hitting ball is fired based on a predetermined operation (for example, a rotation operation) performed by a player on a hitting operation handle provided at the lower right of the front of the housing of the pachinko gaming machine 1. A game ball as a game medium is fired toward a game area by a firing motor or the like provided in the device. When this game ball passes (enters) the first start winning opening formed in the normal winning ball device 6A, the first game start ball is detected by the first start port switch 22A shown in FIG. The starting condition is satisfied. Thereafter, the first start condition is established based on, for example, the end of the previous special map game or big hit game state. When the first start condition is satisfied, a special figure game using the first special figure by the first special symbol display device 4A is started.

  When a game ball fired toward the game area passes (enters) a second starting winning opening formed in the ordinary variable winning ball device 6B, the game ball is detected by the second starting port switch 22B shown in FIG. Is done. The second starting condition is satisfied based on the detection of the game ball by the second starting port switch 22B. After that, the second start condition is established based on, for example, the end of the previous special map game or big hit game state. When the second start condition is satisfied, the special figure game using the second special figure by the second special symbol display device 4B is executed. When the normally variable winning prize ball device 6B is in the normally open state as the second variable state, it is difficult or impossible for game balls to pass through the second starting winning opening.

  In the ordinary variable prize ball device 6B, based on the result that the ordinary symbol display by the ordinary symbol display unit 20 has changed to "per normal symbol", the opening control and the enlargement opening in which the movable wing of the electric tulip is in the tilting position. Control is performed, and after a predetermined time elapses, closing control and normal opening control that return to the vertical position are performed. Through the opening control and the enlarged opening control, when the ordinary variable winning ball device 6B is in the enlarged opening state as the first variable state, the game ball can easily pass or can pass through the second starting winning opening. The ordinary symbol starting condition for executing the variable display of the ordinary symbol by the ordinary symbol display 20 is established based on the detection of the game ball passing through the passage gate 41 by the gate switch 21 shown in FIG. After the general symbol start condition is satisfied, the normal symbol display device 20 sets the general symbol display condition based on a general symbol start condition for starting variable display of the normal symbol, such as the end of the previous general symbol game. The figure game is started. In this ordinary symbol game, when a predetermined time elapses after the variation of the ordinary symbol is started, the fixed ordinary symbol which is a variable display result of the ordinary symbol is stopped and displayed (derived display). At this time, if a specific ordinary symbol (a symbol per ordinary symbol) is stopped and displayed as the fixed ordinary symbol, the variable display result of the ordinary symbol becomes "a symbol per ordinary symbol". On the other hand, if the ordinary symbol other than the ordinary symbol is stopped and displayed as the fixed ordinary symbol, the variable display result of the ordinary symbol becomes “the ordinary symbol loss”.

  When a special figure game using the first special figure by the first special symbol display device 4A is started, or when a special figure game using the second special figure by the second special symbol display apparatus 4B is started, special It is determined (predetermined) whether or not to make the variable display result of the symbol a “big hit” as a predetermined specific display result before deriving and displaying the variable display result. Then, a variation pattern is determined at a predetermined ratio based on the determination of the variable display result, and an effect control command for designating the variable display result and the variation pattern is transmitted to the game control microcomputer 100 of the main board 11 shown in FIG. Is transmitted to the effect control board 12.

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

  In a special figure game using the first special figure by the first special symbol display apparatus 4A or a special figure game using the second special figure by the second special symbol display apparatus 4B, a fixed special that results in a variable display of the special symbol. When the symbol is derived and displayed, a fixed decorative symbol that is a variable display result of the decorative symbol is derived and displayed on the image display device 5. As a variable display result of the special symbol, when a predetermined big hit symbol is derived and displayed, the variable display result is "big hit" (specific display result), and when a predetermined loss symbol is derived and displayed, the variable display result is changed. "Loss" (non-specific display result). Based on the fact that the variable display result is "big hit", it is controlled to a big hit game state as a specific game state advantageous to the player. That is, whether or not to control to the big hit gaming state corresponds to whether or not the variable display result is "big hit", and is determined (predetermined) before the variable display result is derived and displayed.

  When the variable display result of the special symbol in the special figure game is “big hit”, a fixed decoration symbol that is a predetermined big hit combination is derived and displayed on the screen of the image display device 5. As an example, the same decoration pattern is stopped and displayed on predetermined effective lines in the "left", "middle", and "right" decoration symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R, thereby determining a jackpot combination. It is only necessary that the decorative design is derived and displayed.

  In the big hit gaming state, the special winning prize opening is in the open state, and the special variable winning prize ball device 7 is in the first state which is advantageous for the player. Then, for example, during a period until 29.5 seconds or a predetermined number (for example, 10) of game balls enter the special winning opening and a winning ball is generated, a round game in which the special winning opening is continuously opened is set. (Also simply referred to as a “round”). During periods other than the round game execution period, the special winning opening is in a closed state, and it is difficult or impossible to generate a winning ball. When a game ball enters the special winning opening, a winning ball is detected by the count switch 23, and a predetermined number (for example, 15) of game balls are paid out as a prize ball every time the game ball is detected. The round game in the big hit game state is repeatedly executed until a predetermined upper limit number (for example, “16”) is reached. Therefore, in the big hit gaming state, the player can very easily acquire a large number of prize balls, and the gaming state is advantageous for the player. In addition, the pachinko gaming machine 1 may directly pay out game balls to be prize balls, or may give points corresponding to the number of game balls to be prize balls.

  After the jackpot gaming state is completed, the gaming state becomes a variable state based on the establishment of a predetermined probability change control condition, and the probability that the variable display result becomes a "big hit" (big hit probability) becomes higher than the normal state. Control may be performed. The certain probability change condition is such that a certain probability change end condition is satisfied, such as a predetermined number of times of variable display (for example, 100 times) being executed, or a big hit game state being started before the number of times of variable display reaches the predetermined number of times. It is controlled to continue until it does. Note that the certainty ending condition may be satisfied when the next big hit game state is started, regardless of the number of times of performing the variable display. After the big hitting game state ends, the game state becomes the time saving state, and time saving control may be performed in which the average variable display time becomes shorter than the normal state. In the time reduction state, predetermined time reduction termination conditions are satisfied, such as a predetermined number of times (for example, 100 times) of variable display has been executed, or a big hit game state has been started before the number of times of variable display has reached the predetermined number of times. It is controlled to continue until it does.

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

  In the image display device 5, the symbols other than the symbols that are the final stop symbols (for example, the middle symbol among the left symbol, the middle symbol, and the right symbol) are stopped and shaken in a state in which the symbols match the big hit combination continuously for a predetermined time. It is possible for a big hit to occur before the final result is displayed due to movement, enlargement / reduction or deformation, or when multiple symbols fluctuate synchronously with the same symbol, or when the position of the displayed symbol is switched, etc. An effect performed in a state where sex is continued (hereinafter, these states are referred to as a reach state) is referred to as a reach effect. The reach state and the state thereof are referred to as a reach mode. Further, a variable display including a reach effect is referred to as a reach variable display. A plurality of types of reach modes are prepared in advance corresponding to the variation patterns of the decorative symbols and the like, and the possibility of the variable display result being a “big hit” (big hit expectation) differs depending on the reach mode. That is, the possibility that the variable display result is a "big hit" can be varied depending on which of the plurality of types of reach effects is executed. The reach production may include a normal reach production and a super reach reach production that has a higher jackpot expectation than the normal reach production. Then, if the display result of the symbol variably displayed on the screen of the image display device 5 is not a big hit combination, the result is "losing" and the variable display state ends.

  The variable design of the decorative pattern is performed as an effect of the liquid crystal display on the screen of the image display device 5. In addition, on the screen of the image display device 5, for example, an effect using a character image, and an effect of displaying a notification image based on a result of a big hit determination and a variation pattern determination are performed. Various effects performed during the variable display in which the special symbol and the decorative symbol are variably displayed are also referred to as “effects during variable display”. As an example of the effect during variable display, there is a possibility that the variable display state of the decorative symbol will be in the reach state by a rendering operation different from the variable display operation of the decorative symbol, a possibility that a super-reach reach effect will be performed, a variable display A notice effect may be executed to suggest to the player in advance that the result may be a "big hit".

  The production operation to be a notice effect is that, after the variable display of the decorative symbol is started in all of the “left”, “middle”, and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R, the variable display state of the decorative symbol is started. May be executed (started) prior to the reaching of the reach state (before the decorative symbols are temporarily stopped and displayed in the “left” and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L and 5R). In addition, the announcement effect that informs that the variable display result may be “big hit” may include one that is executed after the variable display state of the decorative symbol has reached the reach state. As described above, the notice effect can be set to the big hit game state at a predetermined timing from the start of the variable display of the special symbol or the decorative symbol to the derivation of the fixed special symbol or the fixed decorative symbol which is the variable display result. What is necessary is just to be able to foresee sex. A plurality of announcement effect patterns are prepared in advance corresponding to the contents (effect mode) of the effect operation when such an announcement effect is performed.

  When the lost symbol is stop-displayed (derived) on the first special symbol display device 4A or the second special symbol display device 4B and the variable display result is “losing”, the variable display mode is “non-reach” (“normal”). And the variable display mode is "reach" (also referred to as "reach loss"). When the variable display mode is “non-reach”, the variable display state of the decorative symbol does not become the reach state after the variable display of the decorative symbol is started, and a predetermined decorative pattern combination (non- (Reach combination) is stopped (derived). When the variable display mode is "reach", after the variable display of the decorative symbol is started, the reach effect is performed after the variable display state of the decorative symbol is in the reach state, and finally the jackpot combination The predetermined decorative symbol combination (reach-losing combination) that is not to be displayed is stopped (derived).

  The game ball used as a game medium in the pachinko gaming machine 1 and the recorded information of the score given in accordance with the number of the game balls are, for example, those having a valuable value that can be exchanged for a special premium or a general premium according to the quantity. I just need. Alternatively, the recorded information of these gaming balls and points may not be exchanged for special prizes or general prizes, but may have valuable values that can be used in the pachinko gaming machine 1 for a second game.

  In addition, the game value that can be provided in the pachinko gaming machine 1 is not limited to the payout of game balls that become prize balls or the provision of points, and may be controlled to a big hit game state or to a special game state such as a probable change state. Control, the maximum number of rounds that can be executed in the big hit gaming state is the first round number (for example, “15”) that is larger than the second round number (for example, “7”), and it can be executed in the time saving state The upper limit number of the variable display is the first number (for example, “100”) larger than the second number (for example, “50”), and the big hit probability in the probable change state is higher than the second probability (for example, 1/50). The first probability (for example, 1/20), and the number of consecutive chan, which is the number of times repeatedly controlled to the big hit gaming state without being controlled to the normal state, is larger than the second consecutive chan number (for example, "5"). No. Communicating Chang number (e.g. "10") and such part or all of becoming, it may include be a more favorable game situation for the player.

  Next, an operation (operation) of the pachinko gaming machine 1 in the present embodiment will be described.

  In the main board 11, when the power supply from a predetermined power supply board is started, the game control microcomputer 100 is started, and the CPU 103 executes a predetermined process as a game control main process. When the game control main process is started, the CPU 103 performs the necessary initialization after setting the interruption to be prohibited. In this initial setting, for example, the RAM 102 is cleared. Further, a register of a CTC (counter / timer circuit) built in the game control microcomputer 100 is set. As a result, an interrupt request signal is sent from the CTC to the CPU 103 every predetermined time (for example, every 2 milliseconds), and the CPU 103 can periodically execute the timer interrupt process. When the initialization is completed, an interrupt is permitted, and then a loop process is started. In the game control main process, a process for returning the internal state of the pachinko gaming machine 1 to the state at the time of the previous power supply stop may be executed, and then the loop process may be started.

  Upon receiving the interrupt request signal from the CTC and receiving the interrupt request, the CPU 103 that has executed such a game control main process sets an interrupt disabled state and executes a predetermined game control timer interrupt process. The game control timer interrupt process includes, for example, a switch process, a main side error process, an information output process, a game random number update process, a game control process process, a normal symbol process process, and a command control process in the pachinko game machine 1. The processing for controlling the progress of the process is included.

  The switch process is a process of determining the state of a detection signal 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. The main-side error process is a process of performing an abnormality diagnosis of the pachinko gaming machine 1 and generating a warning if necessary according to the diagnosis result. The information output process is a process of outputting data such as jackpot information, start information, and probability variation information supplied to a hall management computer installed outside the pachinko gaming machine 1, for example. The game random number update process is a process for updating at least a part of the plurality of game random numbers used on the main board 11 side by software.

  In the game control process included in the game control timer interrupt process, the value of the game process flag provided in the RAM 102 is updated according to the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1, and the first special symbol display device 4A Various processes are selected and executed in order to control the display operation in the second special symbol display device 4B and to set the opening / closing operation of the special winning opening in the special variable winning ball device 7 in a predetermined procedure. The normal symbol process process controls the display operation (for example, turning on and off the segment LED) on the normal symbol display 20 to set the variable display of the normal symbol and the tilt operation setting of the movable wing piece in the normal variable prize ball device 6B. Is a process that enables

  The command control process is a process of transmitting a control command from the main board 11 to a sub-side control board such as the effect control board 12. As an example, in the command control process, among the output ports included in the I / O 105, the effect control board 12 is output in accordance with the setting in the command transmission table specified by the value of the transmission command buffer provided in the RAM 102. After the control data is set in the output port for transmitting the effect control command, predetermined control data is set in the output port of the effect control INT signal, and the effect control INT signal is turned on for a predetermined time and then turned off. Thus, it is possible to transmit an effect control command based on the settings in the command transmission table. After the command control process is executed, the game control timer interrupt process is terminated after the interrupt control is set.

  FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the game control process. In the game control process shown in FIG. 4, the CPU 103 of the game control microcomputer 100 first determines whether or not a start winning has occurred (step S11). As an example, in step S11, the input state (on / off) of a start winning signal, which is a detection signal transmitted from the first start port switch 22A or the second start port switch 22B, is checked. What is necessary is just to determine that a winning has occurred.

  If a start winning is generated in step S11 (step S11; Yes), a winning random number is stored (step S12). As an example, in the processing of step S12, the random number circuit 104 built in (or external to) the game control microcomputer 100, a random counter provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 102 in the game control microcomputer 100, the game control microcomputer In the computer 100, a random number for gaming (a random number for determining a variable display result, a random number for determining a gaming state, etc.) updated by at least a part of a random counter configured by using an internal register provided separately from the RAM 102, and the like. Part or all of the numerical data indicating the random number value and the random number value for determining the fluctuation pattern) is extracted. The random number value extracted at this time may be stored as hold data associated with a hold number, for example, in a hold random number value storage unit provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 102 in the game control microcomputer 100.

  Subsequent to the processing in step S12, various control commands corresponding to the start winning are transmitted (step S13). As an example, in the process of step S13, setting for transmitting a start winning designation command for notifying occurrence of a start winning to the effect control board 12 may be performed. If no start winning has occurred in step S11 (step S11; No), or after executing the processing in step S13, the value of the game process flag is determined (step S21). Then, a process corresponding to the determination value is selected and executed from a plurality of processes described in advance in the game control computer program.

  For example, when the value of the game process flag is “0”, it is determined whether or not variable display of symbols (variable display game) can be started (step S101). As an example, in the process of step S101, it is determined whether or not the number of held variable display games is “0” by checking the storage content of the random number storage unit for holding. At this time, if the hold number is other than “0”, the variable display is started after the variable display start condition is satisfied and the variable display is not held since the start condition is not satisfied. It is determined that it is possible. On the other hand, if the hold number is “0”, it is determined that the variable display cannot be started. When the variable display cannot be started (step S101; No), the game control process process ends.

  When the variable display can be started in step S101 (step S101; Yes), a fixed symbol derived and displayed as a variable display result is determined (step S102). The variable display result of the special symbol in the special figure game is called a special figure display result. In the process of step S102, the random number for game (random number for variable display result determination, random number for game state determination, fluctuation, (Random value for pattern determination). The game random number read from the hold random number value storage unit may be temporarily stored in a variable display random number buffer provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 102 in the game control microcomputer 100. Then, using the random number value for variable display result determination and the variable display result determination table, it is determined at a predetermined ratio whether or not the variable display result is a "big hit". Here, when the gaming state of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is in the probable change state, the variable display result determination table is determined so that the variable display result is determined to be "big hit" at a higher rate than in the normal state or the time saving state. It is sufficient that the determination value in is set.

  When the variable display result is determined to be "big hit" in the process of step S102, the gaming state after the end of the big hit gaming state is further determined using the random number value for determining the gaming state and the gaming state determination table. A decision is made as to whether or not to enter the special game state. In accordance with these determination results, a determined symbol derived and displayed as a variable display result may be determined.

  Subsequent to the processing in step S102, settings such as an internal flag are performed (step S103). As an example, in the process of step S103, when the variable display result is determined to be "big hit" in the process of step S102, the big hit flag provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 102 in the game control microcomputer 100 is turned on. set. Also, when it is determined that the gaming state after the end of the big hit gaming state is set to the certain state, a certain change determination flag provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 102 in the game control microcomputer 100 is set to an on state. , May be stored so as to be specified. Thereafter, the value of the game process flag is updated to "1" (step S104), and the game control process process ends.

  When the value of the game process flag is “1”, a fluctuation pattern or the like is determined (step S111). FIG. 5 shows a setting example of a fluctuation pattern used in the pachinko gaming machine 1. Each variation pattern indicates a required time (variable display time) from the start of the variable display to the derivation and display of a fixed symbol as a variable display result, and an outline of the effect mode. In this embodiment, when the variable display result is “losing”, the variable display mode of the decorative symbol variably displayed on the image display device 5 is “non-reach” or “reach”. A plurality of variation patterns are prepared in advance corresponding to each of the cases and corresponding to a case where the variable display result is “big hit”. A plurality of variation patterns are prepared in advance for each variation time (variable display time) in variable display of a special figure game or a decorative symbol. Therefore, by determining the variation pattern, it is possible to determine the variable display time of the special symbol or the decorative symbol.

  In the process of step S111, the variation pattern to be used is determined at a predetermined ratio using the variation pattern determination random number value and the variation pattern determination table temporarily stored in the variable display random number buffer. At this time, by making the determination ratio of each variation pattern different according to whether the variable display result is determined to be "big hit", the possibility that the variable display result becomes "big hit" corresponding to each variation pattern is obtained. (Big hit reliability) can be made different.

  Further, in the process of step S111, it may be determined whether or not the variable display state of the decorative symbol is set to “reach” by determining a variation pattern when the variable display result is determined to be “losing”. . Alternatively, before determining the variation pattern, it may be determined whether or not the variable display state of the decorative symbol is “reach” by using the reach determination random number and the reach determination table. That is, in the process of step S111, it is only necessary that the variation pattern can be determined to any one of a plurality of types based on the variable display result and the determination result of the reach.

  Following the processing in step S111, various control commands corresponding to the start of the variable display are transmitted (step S112). As an example, in the process of step S112, the variable display start command for designating the start of the variable display includes a variable display result notification command for notifying a variable display result, and a variable display such as a variable display time and a type of reach effect of a decorative design. A setting for transmitting a variation pattern designation command or the like for notifying a variation pattern indicating the mode may be performed. Further, in response to the decrease in the number of holdings due to the start of the variable display, setting for transmitting a holding number notification command for notifying the number of holdings after the decrease may be performed.

  The variable display time is set in response to the determination of the fluctuation pattern by the processing in step S112. Further, setting for starting variable display of a special symbol by either the first special symbol display device 4A or the second special symbol display device 4B may be performed. As an example, the variable display of the symbol may be started by transmitting a predetermined drive signal to either the first special symbol display device 4A or the second special symbol display device 4B. Which special symbol display device uses the special symbol game to execute the special symbol game depends on which one of the first starting winning port and the second starting winning port is the special symbol game based on the passing of the game ball. It may be set accordingly. More specifically, a special figure game is played by the first special symbol display device 4A based on a game ball passing through the first start winning opening. On the other hand, based on the fact that the game ball has passed through the second starting winning opening, a special figure game is played by the second special symbol display device 4B. Thereafter, the value of the game process flag is updated to "2" (step S113), and then the game control process process ends.

  When the value of the game process flag is "2", it is determined whether or not the variable display time has elapsed (step S121). If the variable display time has not elapsed (step S121; No), the special symbol variable display control is performed (step S122), and the game control process process ends. On the other hand, when the variable display time has elapsed (Step S121; Yes), control is performed to stop the variable display of the special symbol and to derive and display the fixed symbol (Step S123).

  Following the processing in step S123, various control commands corresponding to the end of the variable display are transmitted (step S124). As an example, in the process of step S124, in the variable display end command for instructing the end (stop) of the variable display, or in the case of a variable display result of "big hit", a big hit start designation command (Fanfare command ) May be set for transmission.

  After executing the processing of step S124, it is determined whether or not the variable display result is "big hit" (step S125). Then, if the variable display result is "big hit" (step S125; Yes), the value of the game process flag is updated to "3" (step S126), and the game control process process ends. On the other hand, if the variable display result is "losing" instead of "big hit" (step S125; No), the game process flag is cleared and its value is initialized to "0" (step S125). S127), the game control process process ends. In addition, when the process of step S127 is performed, it is determined whether or not the probable change state or the time saving state is to be terminated. When it is determined that the termination is to be performed based on the satisfaction of the predetermined condition, these game states are terminated. Settings for controlling to the normal state may be performed.

  When the value of the game process flag is “3”, it is determined whether or not the big hit game state is to be ended according to whether or not a predetermined big hit end condition is satisfied (step S131). The jackpot end condition may be, for example, that all rounds executed in the jackpot game state have ended. If the big hit gaming state is not to be ended (Step S131; No), the game operation control at the time of the big hit is performed (Step 132), and then the game control process processing is ended. On the other hand, when ending the big hit game state (Step S131; Yes), the setting for controlling the game state after the big hit end is made (Step S133).

  As an example, in the process of step S133, it is determined whether or not the probable change confirmation flag is on, and if it is on, the probable change flag provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 102 in the game control microcomputer 100 is turned on. Set to. Thereby, when it is determined that the variable display result is “big hit”, and when it is determined that the gaming state after the end of the big hit gaming state is to be changed to a certain state, the game corresponding to the determination result is performed. The state can be controlled to a probable state. Even when controlling to the time saving state, the setting corresponding to this may be performed. After that, the game process flag is cleared and its value is initialized to "0" (step S134), and then the game control process process ends.

  Next, the operation of the effect control board 12 will be described. The effect control board 12 receives supply of a power supply voltage from a power supply board or the like. In the effect control board 12 in which the power supply for starting has been started, the CPU 131 executes the effect control main process.

  FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the effect control main process. In the effect control main process shown in FIG. 6, first, the CPU 131 executes an initialization process (step S51). In the initialization processing of step S51, for example, clearing of a storage area in the RAM 133, setting of various initial values, register setting of a CTC (counter / timer circuit) for generating a timer interrupt for effect control, and the like are performed. Further, the setting of the timeout value and the setting of the measurement start in the watchdog timer 134 may be performed by the initialization processing in step S51.

  Subsequent to the initialization processing in step S51, a memory inspection setting at the time of power-on is performed (step S52). For example, the CPU 131 supplies an inspection request signal to the memory controller 122. The memory controller 122 inspects the data stored in the effect data memory 123 by executing a memory inspection process based on the supply of the inspection request signal. After the setting in step S52, an interval setting for memory inspection is performed (step S53). For example, the CPU 131 may set an interval (standby time) until the next memory inspection process is performed based on the inspection result by the memory controller 122. Next, in response to the power-on, transfer setting of effect data predetermined as initial effect data is performed (step S54). For example, the CPU 131 supplies a transfer request signal prepared in response to power-on to the memory controller 122. Based on the supply of the transfer request signal, the memory controller 122 sets predetermined initial data (programs and data) among programs and data stored in the effect data memory 123 and used for executing effects by various effect devices. (Including the binary code constituting the program module) to the RAM 133, the VRAM 144 of the VDP 135, or the like. Further, the CPU 131 may transfer predetermined initial data among programs and data stored in the ROM 132 to the RAM 133, the VRAM 144 of the VDP 135, or the like.

  After that, the effect random number updating process (step S55) is executed in the effect control main process, and the numerical data indicating the random number value serving as the effect random number is updated by software. The effect random numbers are counted as various random numbers used for effect control. Note that the effect random number that is updated by hardware using a random number circuit built in or attached to the effect control microcomputer on the effect control board 12 may not be updated in the effect random number update process. . Alternatively, the effect random number may be updated by software using numerical data indicating a random number value updated by hardware.

  After executing the effect random number update process, it is determined whether or not a timer interrupt has occurred (step S56). In step S56, for example, when a timer interrupt signal output from a timer circuit included in the CTC is on, it may be determined that a timer interrupt has occurred. Alternatively, for example, when a timer interrupt flag provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 133 is on, it may be determined that a timer interrupt has occurred. When a timer interrupt occurs, for example, by restarting the timer circuit included in the CTC or clearing and turning off the timer interrupt flag, the time measurement until the next timer interrupt occurs is restarted. You may.

  If no timer interrupt has occurred in step S56 (step S56; No), the effect random number updating process of step S55 is repeatedly executed. On the other hand, when a timer interrupt has occurred (step S56; Yes), a timer interrupt process for effect control is executed. The timer interrupt processing for effect control includes command analysis processing (step S57), effect control process processing (step S58), controlling memory inspection processing (step S59), error notification processing (step S60), and controlling effect data transfer processing. (Step S61).

  The CPU 131 can execute an interrupt process for command reception in addition to the timer interrupt process for effect control. In the interrupt processing for command reception, an effect control command transmitted from the main board 11 via the relay board 15 is obtained. The effect control command acquired at this time may be temporarily stored in a reception command buffer provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 133, for example. In the command analysis process of step S57, it is determined whether or not an effect control command has been received. If the effect control command has been received, setting and control corresponding to the received command are performed. In the effect control process processing in step S58, in order to control the progress of the effect by the electric components for effect, determination, determination, setting, etc., according to the effect control command transmitted from the main board 11 and the progress of the effect are performed. Is In the in-control memory inspection process of step S59, during the effect control for controlling the progress of the effect, the storage data of the effect data memory 123 is inspected in response to the elapse of the standby time that is the memory inspection interval. Is set. In the error notification processing in step S60, settings for notifying the occurrence of an abnormality are performed based on various error detections in the pachinko gaming machine 1. In the control effect data transfer process of step S61, settings for transferring effect data are performed during the effect control for controlling the progress of the effect.

  FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing executed in step S58 of FIG. 6 as the effect control process processing. In the effect control process process shown in FIG. 7, after performing the start winning effect effect setting (step S161), the CPU 131 sets the value of the effect process flag stored in a predetermined area (for example, the effect control flag setting unit) of the RAM 133 or the like. In response, a process selected from a plurality of processes described in advance in the computer program for effect control is executed. The processing executed according to the value of the effect process flag includes a variable display start waiting process (step S170), a variable display start setting process (step S171), a variable display effect process (step S172), and a special figure hit wait process. (Step S173), a big hit effect process (Step S174), and an ending effect process (Step 175).

  The start winning prize effect setting of step S161 shown in FIG. 7 is performed in accordance with the reception of the effect control command transmitted from the main board 11 at the time of the start opening prize in which the first start prize and the second start prize are generated. What is necessary is just to include the setting for updating the hold display in the display area 5H. Along with the update of the hold display, the sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R, the lighting mode in the game effect lamp 9, the staging lighting accessory 90 and other decorative LEDs, the operation in the staging movable members 32A and 32B, a part thereof, or The occurrence of the start winning prize may be notified by all combinations. The setting in step S161 may include the setting for notifying the occurrence of the start winning prize.

  The variable display start waiting process in step S170 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “0”. The variable display start waiting process performs variable display of a decorative symbol on the screen of the main image display device 5MA based on whether a first change start command or a second change start command transmitted from the main board 11 has been received. It includes a process of determining whether or not to start, and the like. The first change start command is an effect control command for notifying that the special figure game using the first special figure by the first special symbol display device 4A is started. The second variation start command is an effect control command for notifying that the special figure game using the second special figure by the second special symbol display device 4B is started. In the variable display start waiting process, when it is determined that either the first change start command or the second change start command has been received, the value of the effect process flag is updated to “1”.

  The variable display start setting process in step S171 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “1”. The variable display start setting process is performed on the screen of the image display device 5 in response to the start of the variable display of the special symbol in the special figure game by the first special symbol display device 4A or the second special symbol display device 4B. In order to perform the variable display of the decorative symbol and various other effecting operations, the processing includes a process of determining a fixed decorative symbol and various effect control patterns according to the variation pattern of the special symbol, the type of display result, and the like. When the variable display start setting process is executed, the value of the rendering process flag is updated to “2”.

  The variable display effect processing in step S172 is processing executed when the value of the effect process flag is “2”. In the variable display effect processing, the CPU 131 reads various control data from the effect control pattern in accordance with the timer value of the effect control process timer provided in a predetermined area (such as the effect control timer setting unit) of the RAM 133, and decorates the display. Processing for performing various effect control during variable display of symbols is included. In the variable display effect processing, in response to the reception of the symbol confirmation command transmitted from the main board 11, etc., the final decorative symbol as the final stop symbol which is the variable display result of the decorative symbol is completely stopped and displayed. (Derived display). In addition, in response to the end code being read from the predetermined effect control pattern, the fixed decorative symbol may be completely stopped and displayed (derived display). By performing the display control based on the end code read from the effect control pattern, the effect control board 12 autonomously derives and displays the determined decorative pattern without depending on the effect control command from the main board 11. Thus, the variable display result can be determined. In the variable display effect processing, after performing control or the like for deriving and displaying the variable display result of the decorative symbol, the value of the effect process flag is updated to “3”.

  The waiting process per special figure in step S173 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “3”. The special figure hit wait process is based on the variable display result notified by the variable display result notification command and the determination result of whether or not the jackpot start designation command transmitted from the main board 11 is received. It includes a process of determining whether or not to start. If it is determined that the big hit game state is started in response to the variable display result corresponding to “big hit” by receiving the big hit start designation command, the value of the effect process flag is updated to “4”. On the other hand, if the standby time has elapsed without receiving the jackpot start designation command and the variable display result determines that the jackpot gaming state is not started in response to "losing", the effect process flag is cleared. Then, the value is initialized to “0”.

  The big hit production process in step S174 is a process executed when the value of the production process flag is “4”. In the big hit effect production process, the CPU 131 sets an effect control pattern or the like corresponding to the effect content in the big hit medium effect executed when the game is in the big hit game state, and executes the effect control based on the set contents. The production control in the big hit production processing includes control for displaying a production image on the screen of the image display device 5, control for outputting voices and sound effects from the speakers 8L and 8R, the game effect lamp 9 and decoration. It suffices that some or all of the control for changing the lighting mode of the LED and other effect control are included. In the big hit production process, the value of the production process flag is updated to “5” in response to, for example, receiving a big hit end designation command transmitted from the main board 11.

  The ending effect process of step S175 is a process executed when the value of the effect process flag is “5”. In the ending effect process, the CPU 131 sets an effect control pattern or the like corresponding to the effect contents in the ending effect (big hit end effect) executed when the big hit game state ends, and executes the effect control based on the set contents. I do. By controlling the display of effect images and sound output, turning on / off or blinking various light emitting members, and other effect operations by effect control in the ending effect process, it is possible to execute an ending effect corresponding to the end of the big hit game state. do it. After that, the effect process flag is cleared and its value is initialized to “0”.

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the process executed in step S171 of FIG. 7 as the variable display start setting process. In the variable display start setting process shown in FIG. 8, the final stop symbol or the like which is the final decorative symbol as the variable display result of the decorative symbol is determined (step S201). The final stop symbol is determined based on variable display contents such as a fluctuation pattern indicated by a fluctuation pattern designation command transmitted from the main board 11 and a variable display result indicated by a variable display result notification command. As an example, the variable display contents according to the combination of the fluctuation pattern and the variable display result include “non-reach (losing)”, “reach (losing)”, “non-probable change (big hit)”, and “probable change (big hit)”. I just need.

  When the variable display content is “non-reach (losing)”, the variable display state of the decorative symbol does not reach the reaching state, the fixed decorative pattern of the non-reach combination is stopped and displayed, and the variable display result is “losing”. ". When the variable display content is "reach (losing)", after the variable display state of the decorative symbol is in the reach state, the fixed decorative symbol of the reach-losing combination is stopped and displayed, and the variable display result is "losing". . The fixed decorative symbol of the non-reach combination and the fixed decorative symbol of the reach-losing combination are included in the fixed decorative symbol of the loss combination corresponding to the case where the variable display result is “losing”. When the variable display content is “non-probable change (big hit)”, the variable display result is “big hit”, and the gaming state after the end of the big hit gaming state becomes the time saving state. When the variable display content is “probable change (big hit)”, the variable display result is “big hit”, and the game state after the end of the big hit game state becomes the positive change state.

  When the variable display content is “non-reach (losing)”, the final stop symbol is determined to be different (mismatched) decorative symbols in the “left” and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L and 5R. Is done. When the variable display content is “reach (losing)”, the final stop symbol is determined to be the same (matching) decorative symbol in the “left” and “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L and 5R. Is done. If the variable display content is “non-probable change (big hit)” or “probable change (big hit)”, the final stop symbol is “left”, “middle”, “right” decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, 5R. Are determined so as to have the same (matching) decorative design. At this time, depending on whether the variable display content is “non-probable change (big hit)” or “probable change (big hit)” and whether or not the promotion process during the big hit is performed, a normal symbol (for example, even number It is only necessary to determine which one of the decorative design shown) and the probable design (for example, a decorative design showing an odd number) is to be the fixed decorative design. Furthermore, when the variable display content is “non-probable change (big hit)” or “probable change (big hit)”, it may be determined whether or not to execute a probable change promotion effect such as a re-lottery effect or a big hit medium promotion effect.

  Following the determination of the final stop symbol and the like in step S201, a notice effect is determined (step S202). In step S202, it is only necessary to be able to determine the presence or absence of a notice effect and the notice pattern. The presence or absence of the notice effect corresponds to whether or not to execute the notice effect. The notice pattern is determined when a notice effect is executed, and a plurality of notice patterns may be prepared in advance corresponding to a plurality of kinds of effect modes. The CPU 131 extracts the numerical data indicating the random number value for the announcement effect determination updated by the random number circuit, the effect random counter, and the like, and refers to the announcement determination table stored and prepared in advance in the ROM 132 to perform the advance notice. What is necessary is just to determine the presence or absence of the effect and the notice pattern.

  After the determination in step S202, the effect control pattern is determined to be one of a plurality of patterns prepared in advance (step S203). For example, the CPU 131 determines the effect control pattern to be one of a plurality of patterns prepared in advance. Further, the CPU 131 may select any one of a plurality of effect control patterns (advance effect effect control patterns) corresponding to the advance notice pattern determined in step S202 and set the selected effect control pattern as a use pattern. In addition, the special figure change effect control pattern and the notice effect control pattern are not limited to those that determine separate effect control patterns, but determine one effect control pattern corresponding to a combination of the execution setting of each effect. There may be.

  When the effect control pattern is determined in step S203, for example, the initial value of the effect control process timer provided in a predetermined area (such as the effect control timer setting unit) of the RAM 133 corresponding to the variation pattern specified by the variation pattern designation command is determined. A value is set (step S204). Then, a setting for starting a variation (variable display) of a decorative design or the like on the screen of the image display device 5 is performed (step S205). At this time, for example, by transmitting to the VDP 135 a display control command specified by the display control data included in the effect control pattern (effect control pattern at special figure change) determined in step S203, the image display device 5 It is only necessary to start changing the decorative symbol in each of the decorative symbol display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R of "left," "middle," and "right" provided on the screen.

  After the start of the variable display is set in step S205, the update of the hold display at the start of the variable display is performed (step S206). In step S206, in the start winning storage display area 5H, the hold display corresponding to the variable display whose execution is started is deleted, and the other hold displays are moved (shifted). Note that the hold display corresponding to the variable display to be started to be executed may be moved (shifted) to the active display area so that the active display is updated. Then, after updating the value of the effect process flag to “2” which is a value corresponding to the effect process during variable display (step S207), the variable display start setting process ends.

  FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing executed in step S172 of FIG. 7 as the variable display effect processing. In the variable display effect processing shown in FIG. 9, it is determined whether or not the variable display time corresponding to the fluctuation pattern has elapsed based on, for example, the timer value of the effect control process timer (step S221). At this time, when it is determined that the variable display time has not elapsed (Step S221; No), the timer value of the effect control process timer is updated (Step S222). In step S222, for example, the timer value of the effect control process timer is decremented by one. Subsequently, it is determined whether a control data read condition is satisfied (step S223). In step S223, it is determined whether or not the timer value of the effect control process timer matches any of the effect control process timer determination values set in the effect control pattern. When the timer value of the effect control process timer matches the determination value, it is determined that the control data read condition is satisfied. On the other hand, when the timer value of the effect control process timer does not match the determination value, it is determined that the control data read condition is not satisfied (step S223; No), and the variable display effect process is terminated.

  If the control data read condition is satisfied in step S223 (step S223; Yes), the corresponding control data is read (step S224). In step S224, in the effect control pattern, effect control execution data (display control data, voice control data, lamp control data, motor control data) associated with the effect control process timer determination value that matches the timer value of the effect control process timer. , Operation detection control data, etc.). Thereafter, it is determined whether or not the control data read in step S224 includes voice control data (step S225). If it is determined that the voice control data is included (step S225; Yes), a setting for controlling the voice output by the speakers 8L and 8R (voice control) is performed (step S226). In step S226, the command or register value indicated in the audio control data may be supplied to the VDP 135 or the audio processing circuit 136.

  When it is determined in step S225 that the control data does not include the voice control data (step S225; No), or after setting in step S226, it is determined whether the control data read in step S224 includes the lamp control data. A determination is made (step S227). When it is determined that the data includes the lamp control data (step S227; Yes), the setting for controlling (lamp control) the lighting mode (light emitting mode) of the various light emitting members is performed (step S228). In step S228, the command or the register value indicated in the lamp control data may be supplied to the VDP 135 or the lamp control circuit 137. When it is determined in step S227 that the control data does not include the lamp control data (step S227; No), or after the setting in step S228 is performed, it is determined whether the control data read in step S224 includes the motor control data. Is determined (step S229). When it is determined that the motor control data is included (step S229; Yes), setting for controlling (motor control) the operating state of the movable member drive motors 33A and 33B is performed (step S230). In step S230, the command and the register value indicated in the motor control data may be supplied to the VDP 135 or the motor control circuit 138.

  If it is determined in step S229 that the control data does not include the motor control data (step S229; No), or after the setting in step S230, it is determined whether the control data read in step S224 includes the display control data. Is determined (step S231). When it is determined that the display control data is not included (Step S231; No), the variable display effect processing is ended. On the other hand, when it is determined that the display control data is included (step S231; Yes), it is determined whether or not the memory inspection is being performed (step S232). In step S232, for example, when the memory test in progress flag provided in a predetermined area (effect control flag setting unit) of the RAM 133 is on, it may be determined that the memory test is in progress. The memory check flag may be set and turned on when the memory test is started in the control memory check process in step S59 shown in FIGS. 6 and 10, and may be cleared and turned off when the memory test ends. .

  When it is determined in step S232 that the memory test is not being performed (step S232; No), it is determined whether or not the effect data is being read (step S233). In step S233, for example, when the effect data reading flag provided in a predetermined area (effect control flag setting unit) of the RAM 133 is ON, it may be determined that effect data is being read. The effect data reading flag is set and turned on when the effect data reading setting is performed in the effect data transfer process during control in step S61 shown in FIGS. 6 and 11, and cleared when the read end control is performed. It just needs to be turned off.

  If it is determined in step S233 that the effect data is not being read (step S233; No), settings are made for normal control (normal display control) of the display mode on the image display device 5 (step S234). The variable display effect processing ends. In step S234, the command or the register value indicated by the display control data may be supplied to the VDP 135. On the other hand, when it is determined in step S232 that the memory test is being performed (step S232; Yes), or when it is determined in step S233 that the effect data is being read (step S233; Yes), the image display device is displayed. The setting for simple control (simple display control) of the display mode in step 5 is performed (step S235), and the variable display effect processing ends.

  In step S235, for example, a setting for performing a simple display using only the image data stored in the VRAM 144 may be performed. During the memory inspection or the effect data reading, the data stored in the effect data memory 123 cannot be read out in real time and used for image display. Therefore, for example, variable display of a decorative design is performed by using image data transferred to and stored in the VRAM 144 as initial data, such as image data (sprite image data) corresponding to a plurality of types of decorative designs. Is also good. On the other hand, for an image display in which the storage data of the effect data memory 123 needs to be read, such as a reach effect in which moving image reproduction using moving image data is performed, the display may be stopped without performing the display. . If it is determined in step S232 that the memory test is being performed, or if it is determined that the effect data is being read in step S233, the variable display effect process is performed without performing the setting in step S235. It may end. In these cases, since the data stored in the frame buffer provided in the VRAM 144 or the like is not updated, the image display on the screen of the image display device 5 may be stopped without being updated. Alternatively, when the data stored in the frame buffer is erased (cleared), the image may not be displayed on the screen of the image display device 5 and the display may be stopped (blacked out).

  In the variable display effect processing shown in FIG. 9, it is determined in step S232 whether or not a memory test is being performed, and in step S233, it is determined whether or not effect data is being read. Instead of these determinations, for example, it may be determined whether the read standby signal output from the memory controller 122 is on or off. The read standby signal output from the memory controller 122 is turned on when the data stored in the effect data memory 123 is being read and when the memory test is being performed on the effect data memory 123, and is off during other periods. Any signal may be used.

  If the variable display time has elapsed in step S221 (step S221; Yes), it is determined whether or not a symbol confirmation command transmitted from the main board 11 has been received (step S236). At this time, if the symbol confirmation command has not been received (step S236; No), the variable display effect process ends and the process stands by. If the predetermined time has elapsed without receiving the symbol confirmation command after the variable display time has elapsed, the occurrence of the predetermined error is notified in response to the failure to normally receive the symbol confirmation command. You may make it.

  If the symbol confirmation command is received in step S236 (step S236; Yes), the final stop symbol (fixed ornament symbol) which is the display result in the variable display of the ornament symbol by supplying a command or a register value to the VDP 135, for example. ) Is controlled (step S237). Subsequently, a predetermined period of time is set as a hit start designation command reception waiting time (step S238). After the value of the effect process flag is updated to “3”, which is a value corresponding to the waiting process per special figure (step S239), the effect process during variable display is ended.

  FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process executed in step S59 in FIG. 6 as a memory check process during control. In the in-control memory inspection process shown in FIG. 10, the CPU 131 determines whether or not a memory inspection is being performed (step S251). In step S251, it may be determined whether or not the memory inspection is being performed, for example, according to whether the memory inspection in progress flag is on or off. If it is determined in step S251 that the memory test is not being performed (step S251; No), it is determined whether the standby time that is the memory test interval has elapsed (step S252). The CPU 131 may determine that the memory test interval has elapsed when the timeout signal output from the timer circuit included in the CTC is on, for example. Alternatively, the CPU 131 may determine that the memory test interval has elapsed when the current time specified using, for example, an RTC (real-time clock) has passed the time set as the memory test interval.

  If the memory test interval has elapsed in step S252 (step S252; Yes), it is determined whether or not a demonstration is being displayed (step S253). In step S253, when the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1 is not progressing and the demonstration display for displaying the demonstration image on the screen of the image display device 5 is being executed, it is determined that the demonstration is being displayed. do it. If the memory test interval has elapsed in step S252, the memory test interval may be set again. If it is determined in step S253 that the demonstration is not being displayed (step S253; No), a predetermined time (for example, 10 minutes or the like) is set as the control standby time (step S254). The memory inspection processing ends. The predetermined time set as the control-inspection standby time in step S254 corresponds to the case where data refresh or data transfer is performed after the elapse of the memory inspection interval, and the storage data of the effect data memory 123 is normally restored. It may be set within a range where data refresh and data transfer can be performed normally so that the data can be recovered or transferred (substitute possible). For example, a different time may be set as the predetermined time to be the control-inspection standby time according to the number of times the effect data memory 123 has been read before the memory inspection interval elapses. In this case, when the number of readings of the effect data memory 123 executed until the memory inspection interval elapses is equal to or greater than a predetermined number determination value, a shorter time than when the number is less than the number determination value. May be set. Alternatively, a different time may be set as the predetermined time to be the control-inspection standby time according to the number of error bits generated until the memory test interval elapses. In this case, if the number of error bits detected before the memory test interval elapses is equal to or greater than a predetermined error determination value, a shorter time is set than when the error bit number is less than the error determination value. Is also good.

  If the memory test interval has not elapsed in step S252 (step S252; No), it is determined whether the control-inspection standby time set in step S254 has elapsed (step S255). If the inspection waiting time during control has not elapsed (Step S255; No), it is determined whether or not the demonstration display is being performed (Step S256). If it is determined in step S256 that the demonstration is not being displayed (step S256; No), the in-control memory inspection process ends.

  When it is determined in step S253 that the demonstration is being displayed (step S253; Yes), when the in-control inspection standby time has elapsed in step S255 (step S255; Yes), or during the demonstration display in step S256. Is determined (step S256; Yes), the control is performed so that the memory controller 122 starts a memory check under control for checking the data stored in the effect data memory 123 during the effect control (step S257). ). For example, the CPU 131 supplies an inspection request signal to the memory controller 122. The memory controller 122 inspects the data stored in the effect data memory 123 by executing a memory inspection process based on the supply of the inspection request signal. At this time, corresponding settings are made during the memory inspection, such as setting and turning on the memory inspection flag (step S258), and the memory inspection process under control is ended. If the memory test interval has elapsed in step S252, the process proceeds to step S257 without immediately determining whether or not the demonstration is being displayed in step S253, and the control-in-progress memory test is started immediately. You may do so.

  If it is determined in step S251 that the memory inspection is being performed (step S251; Yes), it is determined whether the memory inspection is completed (step S259). In step S259, when a memory test completion notification is received from the memory controller 122, it may be determined that the memory test has been completed. If it is determined that the memory inspection has not been completed (Step S259; No), the in-control memory inspection process ends. On the other hand, when it is determined that the memory test has been completed (Step S259; Yes), control corresponding to the end of the memory test under control is performed (Step S260). For example, the CPU 131 may supply an instruction or a register value to the memory controller 122, the VDP 135, or the like, in order to read out the effect data that has become unreadable due to the execution of the memory inspection. At this time, corresponding settings are made after the memory inspection, such as clearing and turning off the memory inspection flag (step S261), and the in-control memory inspection process ends.

  FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process executed in step S61 in FIG. 6 as the effect data transfer process during control. In the control effect data transfer process shown in FIG. 11, the CPU 131 determines whether or not effect data is being read (step S271). In step S271, it may be determined whether or not the effect data is being read, depending on whether the effect data reading flag is on or off, for example. If it is determined in step S271 that the effect data is not being read (step S271; No), it is determined whether or not the effect data reading condition is satisfied (step S272). In step S272, if it is determined from the contents of the effect control execution data included in the effect control pattern that the storage data of the effect data memory 123 needs to be transferred to the RAM 133 or the VRAM 144, it is determined that the effect data read condition is satisfied. Good. Alternatively, when the data stored in the effect data memory 123 is read based on a signal transmitted from the memory controller 122 or the VDP 135, it may be determined that the effect data read condition is satisfied.

  If it is determined in step S272 that the effect data reading condition is not satisfied (step S272; No), the normal time WDT clear setting is performed (step S273). In step S273, the watchdog timer 134 is cleared and the measurement time is initialized before the monitoring time of the watchdog timer 134 elapses in response to the case where the data stored in the effect data memory 123 is not read. Then restart it. For example, the CPU 131 may periodically write the plurality of WDT clear data to the WDT clear register to periodically clear the watchdog timer 134.

  If the effect data reading condition is satisfied in step S272 (step S272; Yes), control is performed so that the memory controller 122 starts reading the effect data (step S274). For example, the CPU 131 supplies a read request signal to the memory controller 122. Note that the present invention is not limited to the case where the CPU 131 supplies a read request signal to the memory controller 122. For example, the VDP 135 may supply a read request signal to the memory controller 122. The memory controller 122 may read the data stored in the effect data memory 123 based on the supply of the read request signal, and transfer the data to the RAM 133 or the VRAM 144 for storage. At this time, for example, the effect data reading flag is set and turned on, for example, the setting corresponding to the effect data reading is performed (step S275), and the effect data transfer process during control is ended. In step S275, a predetermined fixed time is set as the clearing time during reading.

  If it is determined in step S271 that the effect data is being read (step S271; Yes), it is determined whether or not the effect data has been read (step S276). In step S276, when the data reading completion notification is received from the memory controller 122, it may be determined that the effect data reading has been completed. When it is determined that the reading of the effect data has been completed (step S276; Yes), control corresponding to the end of the effect data reading is performed (step S277). For example, the CPU 131 may supply an instruction or a register value to the VDP 135 or the like in order to restart the effect that has been stopped by executing the effect data reading. At this time, for example, the effect data reading flag is cleared and turned off, and the corresponding setting is performed after the effect data is read (step S278), and the effect data transfer process during control is ended.

  If it is determined in step S276 that the reading of the effect data has not been completed (step S276; No), it is determined whether the clearing time during reading has elapsed (step S279). At this time, if the clearing time during reading has elapsed (step S279; Yes), it is determined whether the number of clearing during reading has reached a predetermined clear upper limit determination value (step S280). The number of clears during reading indicates the number of times the watchdog timer 134 has been cleared by the setting of step S281 since the effect data was started to be read by the control in step S274. For example, in step S275, “0” is set as the initial count value of the clear counter during reading, and the count value may be updated so as to be incremented by 1 by the setting in step S282.

  If the clear time during reading has not elapsed at step S279 (step S279; No), or if the clear upper limit determination value has been reached at step S280 (step S280; Yes), the effect data transfer process during control is performed. To end. On the other hand, if the clear upper limit determination value has not been reached in step S280 (step S280; No), the WDT clear setting during reading is performed (step S281). In step S281, the watchdog timer 134 is cleared and the measurement time is initialized before the monitoring time of the watchdog timer 134 elapses, corresponding to the case where the data stored in the effect data memory 123 is being read. And restart it. If the WDT clear setting during reading is set in step S281, the number of clearing during reading is updated by adding 1, for example (step S282), and the effect data transfer process during control is ended.

  In the reading WDT clear setting in step S281, the watchdog timer 134 may be set to be cleared at a different cycle from the normal WDT clear setting in step S273. For example, in the reading WDT clear setting in step S281, the watchdog timer 134 is cleared at a longer cycle than in the normal WDT clear setting in step S273. In this case, the normal-time WDT clear setting in step S273 clears the watchdog timer 134 by each setting, whereas the reading WDT clear setting in step S281 is performed a plurality of times so that the watchdog timer is cleared. 134 may be cleared. In the case where the watchdog timer 134 is cleared by sequentially setting a plurality of WDT clear data in the WDT clear register, when the normal-time WDT clear setting in step S273 is performed once, all of the plurality of WDT clear data is cleared. On the other hand, when the WDT clear setting during reading is performed once in step S281, only one WDT clear data is set, and the WDT clear setting during reading is repeated a plurality of times. The clear data may be set in order. Conversely, in the reading WDT clear setting in step S281, the watchdog timer 134 may be cleared in a shorter cycle than in the normal WDT clear setting in step S273.

  As described above, in the effect data transfer process during control, when the normal time WDT clear setting is performed in step S273, the measurement time by the watchdog timer 134 is initialized before the monitoring time of the watchdog timer 134 elapses. I do. After the effect data has been read out by the control in step S274, if it is determined in step S276 that the effect data reading has not been completed, the WDT clear setting during reading in step S281 is performed. Before the monitoring time of the dog timer 134 elapses, the time measured by the watch dog timer 134 is initialized. Thereby, when the reading time of the effect data is prolonged, the watchdog timer 134 can be appropriately cleared and the improper reset of the CPU 131 can be suppressed.

  In the control effect data transfer process shown in FIG. 11, it is determined in step S271 whether or not effect data is being read, thereby determining whether or not the data is being read in the effect data memory 123 during the reading period. Is determined. If data refresh or data transfer (alternative processing) in the effect data memory 123 is performed during this reading period, the reading period is lengthened, and the normal-time WDT clear setting in step S273 can be performed. It may disappear. Therefore, when it is determined in step S271 that the effect data is being read, and when it is determined in step S276 that the effect data has not been read, the watchdog timer 134 is set by the WDT clear setting during reading in step S281. The time measured by the watchdog timer 134 can be initialized before the monitoring time elapses. In this case, when it is determined in step S280 that the number of clears during reading has not reached the clear upper limit determination value, the WDT clear setting during reading in step S281 can be performed. If it is determined in step S280 that the number of clears during reading has reached the clear upper limit determination value, the WDT clear setting during reading in step S281 is not performed, so that initialization of the measurement time by the watchdog timer 134 is limited. You. As described above, after the number of clears during reading reaches the clear upper limit determination value, when the monitoring time of the watchdog timer 134 has elapsed, a time-out signal serving as a time lapse signal is generated, and the CPU 131 is reset. restart. When the number of clears during reading reaches the clear upper limit determination value, the CPU 131 may be immediately reset to restart without waiting until the monitoring time of the watchdog timer 134 elapses. For example, when it is determined in step S280 that the number of clears during reading has reached the clear upper limit determination value, a reset interrupt of the CPU 131 may be generated to reset the CPU 131.

  FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a memory inspection process performed by the memory controller 122. The memory controller 122 may start executing the memory inspection process based on the supply of the inspection request signal from the CPU 131. As described above, the memory controller 122 only needs to be able to execute the memory inspection process on condition that the signal is supplied from the CPU 131. Alternatively, the memory controller 122 may be configured to be able to execute the memory inspection process based on the setting at the time of turning on the power, the end of the memory inspection interval, or the like, without using the signal supply from the CPU 131 as a condition. .

  In the memory inspection process shown in FIG. 12, the memory controller 122 reads out status information stored in the effect data memory 123 or the like (step S451). The status information only needs to include management information of the erase unit block, management information of the number of error bits, management information of error correction, management information of data refresh, and the like. The management information on the number of error bits may be created whenever the sector data is read from the effect data memory 123, and may be any information that indicates the number of error bits specified by the error detection of each sector data. The error correction management information may be created when error correction is performed on the sector data read from the effect data memory 123, and may be any information that indicates whether or not each sector data has been corrected. The management information of the data refresh may be created when the data of the sector data stored in the effect data memory 123 is refreshed, and may be any information indicating the number of times the data refresh has been performed, the execution date and time, and the like.

  Subsequently, it is determined whether the data refresh condition is satisfied based on the contents of the status information read in step S451 (step S452). For example, when there is sector data in which the number of error bits indicated in the management information of the number of error bits exceeds a predetermined error threshold, it may be determined that the data refresh condition is satisfied. In addition, when there is sector data that cannot be corrected as indicated by the error correction management information, it may be determined that the data refresh condition is satisfied.

  If the data refresh condition is satisfied in step S452 (step S452; Yes), control for executing data refresh is performed (step S453). In step S453, for example, the storage data of the erase unit block including the sector data to be refreshed is read out, and error correction is performed to restore correct data. Then, for the erase unit block from which the storage data has been read, the storage data may be erased, and then the restored correct data may be written. Alternatively, the restored correct data may be written to an erase unit block different from the erase unit block from which the stored data has been read. When the restored correct data is written, the written data may be read again and compared with the data before writing to determine whether or not the data refresh has been normally completed.

  If the data refresh condition is not satisfied in step S452 (step S452; No), or after performing the control in step S453, it is determined whether the data transfer condition is satisfied (step S454). For example, it may be determined that the data transfer condition has been satisfied when there is sector data that cannot be corrected as indicated by the error correction management information. Further, when there is sector data in which the number of times the data refresh indicated by the data refresh management information is performed exceeds a predetermined transfer threshold, it may be determined that the data transfer condition is satisfied. . If the data refresh is not normally completed in step S453, it may be determined that the data transfer condition is satisfied.

  If the data transfer condition is not satisfied in step S454 (step S454; No), the memory inspection process ends. On the other hand, when the data transfer condition is satisfied (step S454; Yes), control for executing data transfer is performed (step S455), and the memory inspection process ends. In step S455, for example, the storage data of the erase unit block including the sector data to be transferred is read, and error correction is performed to restore correct data. At this time, the erase unit block from which the stored data has been read is set as a defective block as a defective area. Then, the restored data may be written in a substitute block serving as a substitute area in the redundant area. In addition, by setting the arrangement information included in the address conversion table, the setting is made so that the storage data of the substitute block can be read in place of the defective block.

  In the memory inspection process shown in FIG. 12, when the data refresh condition is satisfied in step S452, the data refresh can be executed by the control in step S453. Thus, even if a memory cell deteriorates due to factors such as read disturb or data retention in the effect data memory 123, the stored data can be restored to correct data and protected. Further, when the data transfer condition is satisfied in step S454, an alternative process of performing data transfer by the control in step S455 is enabled. In this way, in the effect data memory 123, when there is a defective block which becomes a defective area which cannot be recovered even when the memory cell is refreshed, the data stored in the defective area can be transferred to the substitute block which is a substitute area for protection. it can.

  In the effect control main process shown in FIG. 6, the power-on memory test setting is performed in step S52, and a test request signal is supplied from the CPU 131 to the memory controller. Based on the supply of the inspection request signal, the memory controller 122 executes the memory inspection process shown in FIG. 12 when the power is turned on. At this time, data refresh may be performed by the control in step S453, or data transfer may be performed by the control in step S455. For example, after power supply to the pachinko gaming machine 1 is started, such as before the previous power-off, the status information in the effect data memory 123 is updated, and a state in which data refresh conditions can be satisfied or a data transfer condition can be satisfied. May be in a state. However, if the power supply is terminated by turning off the power without performing data refresh or data transfer, the memory cell is left in a state of being neglected or further progressing, and the data stored in the effect data memory 123 has many errors. May be included. Therefore, when the power supply is started again by turning on the power, the memory inspection process shown in FIG. 12 is executed, and if the data refresh condition is satisfied in step S452, the data refresh is executed by the control in step S453. If the data transfer condition is satisfied in step S454, the data transfer is executed by the control in step S455. In the effect control main process shown in FIG. 6, an interval of the memory inspection is set in step S53.

  In the in-control memory inspection process shown in FIG. 10, when the memory inspection interval has elapsed in step S252, it is determined in step S253 or S256 that the demonstration is being displayed, or in step S255. On the condition that it is determined that the control-inspection standby time has elapsed, the memory test under control can be executed by the control in step S257. As described above, not only at the time of power-on but also during the control of the effect, the data refresh and data transfer can be executed based on the elapse of the memory inspection interval. Even if a long time elapses without stopping the supply, a process for protecting the data stored in the effect data memory 123 can be executed. In particular, since an alternative process of transferring data can be executed based on the lapse of the memory inspection interval, the storage data of a defective block that becomes a defective area where an unrecoverable data error occurs even when a memory cell is refreshed, The data can be appropriately transferred and stored in a substitute block serving as a substitute area.

  FIG. 13 shows a configuration example of a storage area in the effect data memory 123. The storage area of the effect data memory 123 has three areas: a data area, a control area, and a redundant area. A management table and various effect data can be stored in the data area and the redundant area. The effect data may be audio data, lamp drive data, motor drive data, and the like, in addition to image data including still image data and moving image data. The data area is a normal use area used for normal access to the effect data memory 123. The program for controlling the progress of the effect and the effect data used for executing the effect are written and stored in the data area as long as the access is not hindered. The redundant area is an alternative use area that can be used in the data area in place of a defective area that hinders writing and reading. A defective area such as a defective block determined to have a problem in access in the data area is set to use prohibited, and the storage data of the defective area is stored in a substitute area such as a substitute block in the redundant area. The control area is a control information area that stores correspondence information indicating the relationship between the defective area of the data area and the replacement area of the redundant area. As the correspondence information, for example, arrangement information indicating the correspondence between the address of the data area and the address of the redundant area is stored. The address of the data area or the address of the redundant area may be specified by a page number or a block number, or may be specified by a start address and an end address. The arrangement information indicating the correspondence between the address of the data area and the address of the redundant area may be collectively stored in the address conversion table. The address change table is table data of arrangement information that enables a logical block address specified when requesting access to the effect data memory 123 from the CPU 131 or the VDP 135 to be converted to a physical block address assigned to an actual storage area. What is necessary is just to be comprised.

  The data area shown in FIG. 13 has three defective areas A, B, and D. In this case, the redundant areas are provided with alternative areas A, B, and D to which the storage data of the defective areas A, B, and D have been transferred. The control area stores arrangement information A, B, and D that specify the correspondence between the defective areas A, B, and D and the alternative areas A, B, and D. History information may be written in the redundant area. The history information may be information indicating the history of data transfer in the effect data memory 123, and may include, for example, date information on the data transfer. History information C is stored in the redundant area shown in FIG. In the control area, arrangement information C corresponding to history information C is stored. The arrangement information C is different from the arrangement information indicating the correspondence between the defective area and the substitute area, and includes a history flag indicating that the arrangement information is related to the history information and the address information of the redundant area storing the history information. You only need to include it. By reading the address information included in the arrangement information for which the history flag is on, the history information stored in the redundant area can be read. From the date information of data transfer included in the history information, the number of times data transfer has been performed in the effect data memory 123 may be specified, and it may be determined whether use of the effect data memory 123 can be continued or discarded. In the control area, in addition to the arrangement information, various management information constituting status information such as management information of an erase unit block, management information of the number of error bits, management information of error correction, and management information of data refresh are provided. It may be stored.

  FIG. 14A shows a configuration example of moving image data included in image data among the effect data stored in effect data memory 123. FIG. 14B illustrates an operation example of separating and decoding moving image data into video data and audio data. FIG. 14C shows an example of executing moving image reproduction using moving image data. The moving image data only needs to be configured by multiplexing compression-encoded video data and audio data in a predetermined container format. In the moving image data, if a video data block storing packetized video data and an audio data block storing packetized audio data are arranged in a predetermined order following the header information, Good. The moving image data read from the effect data memory 123 is input to the demultiplexer 142 of the VDP 135 and separated into video data and audio data. The video data output from the demultiplexer 142 is supplied to the video decoder 143 of the VDP 135. The audio data output from the demultiplexer 142 is supplied to the audio decoder 151 of the audio processing circuit 136. The video decoder 143 decodes the video data supplied from the demultiplexer 142, and outputs the decoded video data at a timing according to the header information or the time stamp added to each packet. The audio decoder 151 decodes the audio data supplied from the demultiplexer 142 and outputs the decoded data at the timing according to the header information or the time stamp added to each packet.

  As described above, the video data and the audio data are multiplexed, and the video data and the audio data are separated and decoded using the moving image data, and then output according to the time stamp. Thus, it is possible to reproduce a moving image in which the video output and the audio output are synchronized. The effect data memory 123 stores video data relating to display control of the image display device 5 and audio data relating to output control of effect sound at the speakers 8L and 8R as a series of moving image data. The VDP 135 and the sound processing circuit 136 reproduce the moving image using the moving image data read from the effect data memory 123, thereby controlling the display of the image display device 5 and the output control of the effect sound on the speakers 8L and 8R. And can be executed synchronously.

  FIG. 15 shows an example of the configuration of effect control execution data stored in the ROM 132. The effect control execution data may be stored in the effect control pattern in association with the effect control process timer determination value. Further, the effect control execution data may be stored in a readable manner on condition that a specific event occurs, such as occurrence of a start winning prize, detection of an operation of a player pressing down push button 31B, and the like. The effect control execution data may be configured to include a part or all of various control data such as display control data, voice control data, lamp control data, motor control data, operation detection control data, and the like.

  The display control data is configured as data for specifying the display state of the image display device 5, and may include a display control command (command) and a register value (parameter). The content specified by the display control data may include a case where a moving image is to be reproduced and a case where a still image is to be displayed. When the reproduction of the moving image is designated by the display control data, the control for reproducing and displaying the moving image is performed using the moving image data read from the effect data memory 123. When the still image display is designated by the display control data, the still image is displayed on the screen using the still image data stored in advance in the VRAM 144 or using the still image data read from the effect data memory 123. Is executed. The screen display of the still image only needs to be able to execute animation display in which various effect images are smoothly changed and displayed by switching the display of each frame in a short time. The voice control data may be configured as data for specifying the voice output state of the speakers 8L and 8R, and may include a command (command) for voice control and a register value (parameter). The lamp control data is configured as data for designating a lighting mode (light emitting mode) of a light emitting member such as the game effect lamp 9, the effect lighting accessory 90, and other decorative LEDs, and includes a lamp control command and a register value. (Parameters). The motor control data is configured as data that specifies the operating state of the movable member drive motors 33A and 33B, and may include a motor control command (command) and a register value (parameter). The operation detection control data is configured as data for specifying an operation detection state of the player who operates the stick controller 31A or the push button 31B, and includes a detection control command (command) and a register value (parameter). Just do it.

  The effect control execution data shown in FIG. 15 includes sound control data and lamp control data, as well as display control data. On the other hand, the effect control execution data including the voice control data and the lamp control data may be configured separately from the effect control execution data including the display control data. As the effect control pattern, an audio ramp control pattern storing a plurality of combinations of the effect control process timer determination value and the effect control execution data including the audio control data and the lamp control data may be prepared. Further, as the effect control pattern, a display control pattern in which a plurality of combinations of the effect control process timer determination value and the effect control execution data including only the display control data are stored may be prepared.

  The CPU 131 determines the effect control pattern in step S203 of the variable display start setting process shown in FIG. 8, and according to the effect control execution data included in the effect control pattern, controls the control contents of various effects during the variable display of the decorative symbol. Set. For example, in the variable display effect processing shown in FIG. 9, when the timer value of the effect control process timer matches any one of the effect control process timer determination values set in the effect control pattern, the control data is read out in step S223. It is determined that the condition is satisfied. At this time, in accordance with the control data read in step S224, the control content of the audio output is set in step S226, the control content of the lamp output is set in step S228, and the control content of the motor output is set in step S230. In step S234, display output control contents are set. For example, in accordance with the setting in step S234, the decorative pattern is variably displayed in the mode specified by the display control data, and an effect image using a still image such as a character image or a background image, or an effect using a moving image in a reach effect. The control for displaying an image or the like on the screen of the image display device 5 is performed. For example, according to the setting in step S226, control is performed to output the effect sound from the speakers 8L and 8R in the audio output state specified by the audio control data. For example, according to the setting in step S228, control is performed to turn on or off the light emitting members such as the game effect lamp 9, the effect lighting accessory 90, and other decorative LEDs in the lighting mode (light emitting mode) specified by the lamp control data. In accordance with the setting in step S230, control is performed to drive the movable member drive motors 33A and 33B in the operation state specified by the motor control data, and to move or stop the effect movable members 32A and 32B. In addition, in the operation detection state specified by the operation detection control data, control may be performed to detect the operation of the player who operates the trigger button, operation stick, push button 31B, or the like of the stick controller 31A.

  Instructions (commands) and register values (parameters) included in display control data, audio control data, lamp control data, motor control data, and operation detection control data in the effect control execution data are supplied from the CPU 131 to the VDP 135 and the like. In the VDP 135, for example, the instruction decoder 141 decodes the instruction and instructs image processing or the like according to the decoding result. For example, when a moving image reproduction command is supplied, the moving image data specified by the register value serving as a parameter is read from the effect data memory 123 and supplied to the demultiplexer 142. Alternatively, when a still image display command is supplied, if image data specified from a register value or the like serving as a parameter is stored in the VRAM 144 in advance, drawing is performed so as to be arranged at a predetermined position in the frame buffer. Create display data for the screen. Alternatively, when a voice output command is supplied, the voice data specified by a register value serving as a parameter is supplied to the voice processing circuit 136.

  The moving image data tends to have a larger data capacity than other effect data. If moving image data having a large data capacity is stored in advance in the VRAM 144 or the like, the work area of the VDP 135 may be squeezed. For this reason, it is difficult to store moving image data having a large data capacity in the VRAM 144 or the like in advance, and it is necessary to read the moving image data from the effect data memory 123 every time it is used. The VDP 135 sends a moving image data read request to the memory controller 122 when a moving image reproduction command is supplied from the CPU 131, thereby reading the moving image data stored in the effect data memory 123.

  FIGS. 16 to 18 are sequence diagrams illustrating an example of playback control of a moving image corresponding to a case where a moving image playback command is supplied. FIG. 16 shows the case where the inspection result of the moving image data (read data) read from the effect data memory 123 is normal, ie, the inspection is OK. FIG. 17 shows a case where the data refresh is successful in the effect data memory 123 and the data refresh is successful. FIG. 18 shows a case of a bad block detection in which a bad block is detected in the effect data memory 123.

  As shown in FIG. 16, when the VDP 135 receives a moving image reproduction command from the CPU 131, the VDP 135 issues a moving image data read request to read the moving image data specified from a register value serving as a parameter to the memory controller 122. Supply. In response to receiving the moving image data read request, the memory controller 122 sets the read standby signal output to the CPU 131 to ON. After that, the reading of the moving image data is started. When the reading of the moving image data is completed, error detection and error correction of the read moving image data are performed. Thus, when the reading of the moving image data is completed, the VDP 135 starts the reproduction and display of the moving image on the screen of the image display device 5. Note that the present invention is not limited to the case in which the reproduction and display of the moving image are not started until all the moving image data has been read, and the read moving image data is used every time the predetermined unit of moving image data is read. The moving image may be played back and displayed sequentially. Further, as shown in FIGS. 14A to 14C, in the reproduction display of a moving image, the video output on the image display device 5 and the audio output on the speakers 8L and 8R are executed in synchronization with each other. And proceed.

  Further, the memory controller 122 checks the read data using the execution results of the error detection and the error correction. For example, the inspection result of the read data is determined according to whether the number of error bits specified by the error detection exceeds an error threshold value, or whether there is any sector data that cannot be corrected by the error correction. At this time, if it is determined that the inspection result of the read data is normal, since the data stored in the effect data memory 123 has been normally read, the read standby signal output to the CPU 131 is set to OFF. Thereafter, when the reproduction display of the moving image under the control of the VDP 135 or the like is completed, the VDP 135 may notify the CPU 131 of the completion of the reproduction of the moving image.

  In the case shown in FIG. 17, the memory controller 122 determines that the inspection result of the read data is abnormal. In this case, data refresh is started for the sector data stored in the effect data memory 123. After that, when the data refresh is completed normally, the data stored in the effect data memory 123 can be newly read. Therefore, the read standby signal output to the CPU 131 is set to off. Since the data refresh based on the inspection result of the read data is executed in accordance with the execution result of the error detection and the error correction, the data refresh may be executed after the reproduction display of the moving image under the control of the VDP 135 or the like is started. Good. Thus, even when data refresh is performed on the data stored in the effect data memory 123, it is possible to prevent delays in the reproduction and display of the moving image and perform the effect by appropriate reproduction and display of the moving image. On the other hand, if the reproduction and display of the moving image under the control of the VDP 135 or the like is not started until the data refresh ends, a delay occurs in the reproduction and display of the moving image.

  In the case shown in FIG. 18, after the data refresh is started by the memory controller 122, the data refresh is interrupted because a defective block serving as a defective area is detected. In this case, data transfer is started for the sector data of the erase unit block stored in the effect data memory 123 in response to the detection of the bad block. Thereafter, in the effect data memory 123, data transfer from the defective block, which is a defective area in the data area, to the alternative block, which is an alternative area in the redundant area, is completed, and the storage data of the effect data memory 123 can be newly read. Then, the read standby signal output to the CPU 131 is set to off. The data transfer performed following the data refresh based on the detection result of the read data may be performed after the reproduction and display of the moving image under the control of the VDP 135 or the like is started, similarly to the data refresh. Accordingly, even when data transfer to the data stored in the effect data memory 123 is performed, it is possible to prevent a delay in the reproduction and display of the moving image and perform the effect by appropriate reproduction and display of the moving image. On the other hand, in the case where the reproduction of the moving image under the control of the VDP 135 or the like is not started until the data transfer from the defective area to the alternative area is completed, the standby state is compared with the case where the data refresh is normally completed. As a result, a further delay occurs in the reproduction and display of the moving image.

  In the cases shown in FIGS. 17 and 18, when it is determined that the inspection result of the read data is abnormal, the data refresh is continuously started. In the case shown in FIG. 18, after the data refresh is started, when a defective block serving as a defective area is detected, the data transfer is continuously started. As described above, the data refresh or the data transfer may be executable immediately after the reading is performed according to the inspection result for the read data in the effect data memory 123. On the other hand, execution results of error detection and error correction for the data read from the effect data memory 123 are stored in the effect data memory 123, and when the memory inspection interval elapses, the data refresh condition and the data transfer condition are changed. In response to the establishment, data refresh or data transfer may be executable.

  In the example of the moving image reproduction control shown in FIGS. 16 to 18, when a moving image reproduction command is supplied from the CPU 131 to the VDP 135, the VDP 135 supplies a moving image data read request to the memory controller 122 and Has been started. On the other hand, the command corresponding to the moving image data read request may be supplied from the CPU 131 to the memory controller 122. When the CPU 131 determines that the reproduction of the moving image is started from the effect control execution data included in the effect control pattern or the like, the effect data read condition is satisfied in step S272 of the effect data transfer process during control shown in FIG. judge. Therefore, the command corresponding to the moving image data read request may be supplied from the CPU 131 to the memory controller 122 under the control of step S274. However, if the CPU 131 supplies a moving image reproduction command to the VDP 135 and the CPU 131 supplies a command corresponding to the moving image data read request to the memory controller 122, the processing load on the CPU 131 may increase. is there. On the other hand, when the VDP 135 receives the moving image reproduction command supplied from the CPU 131, the VDP 135 supplies a moving image data read request from the VDP 135 to the memory controller 122, as in the moving image reproduction control examples shown in FIGS. By doing so, the processing load for reading the moving image data is dispersed, so that the processing load on the CPU 131 can be reduced.

  When starting reproduction and display of a moving image, a delay may occur due to various factors. For example, as in the case of the reproduction control example of the moving image shown in FIGS. 17 and 18, there may be a delay due to data refresh or data transfer based on the inspection result of the read data. In addition, when the control for starting the memory check under control is performed in step 257 of the memory check process under control shown in FIG. 10, the data stored in the effect data memory 123 cannot be read, and the memory check under control ends. Until then, a delay may occur in the reproduction and display of moving images. Further, in the effect data memory 123 configured using a NAND flash memory, a delay may occur in the reproduction and display of a moving image due to the reading of stored data by random access. The effect data memory 123 configured using a NAND flash memory reads stored data in sector units. Since the moving image data tends to have a larger data capacity than other effect data, the effect data memory 123 may store the moving image data over a plurality of sectors. In the effect data memory 123, when effect data such as moving image data is stored over a plurality of sectors, each of the sectors must be accessed to read the stored data. In this case, the random access to the effect data memory 123 frequently occurs, which causes a delay in reading the stored data and also affects the reproduction and display of the moving image.

  Among the effects performed in the pachinko gaming machine 1, there are effects in which delay is likely to occur depending on the read permission state of the effect data memory 123, as in the case of reproducing and displaying a moving image. On the other hand, there is also an effect that can be executed without delay irrespective of the read permission state of the effect data memory 123. For example, the effect control execution data stored in ROM 132 may include effect control execution data for executing start winning notification SH1. The start winning notification SH1 is a sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R, lighting of the game effect lamp 9, the staging lighting role 90, and other decorative LEDs at the time of the start opening winning in which the first starting winning and the second starting winning are generated. The occurrence of the start winning prize is notified by the mode, the operation of the effect movable members 32A and 32B, and a combination of some or all of them. In addition, the effect control execution data stored in ROM 132 may include effect control execution data for executing post-reach effect AR1 or post-reach effect AR2. The post-reach effect AR1 outputs audio from the speakers 8L and 8R in response to the variable display state of the decorative symbol being changed to the reach state, for example, in response to a period in which reproduction and display of a moving image are normally started. The start of the reach effect is notified by the lighting mode of the game effect lamp 9, the lighting device for effect 90, and other decorative LEDs, the operation of the effect movable members 32A and 32B, or a combination of some or all of them. In addition, the effect control execution data stored in ROM 132 may include effect control execution data for executing error notification EH1. The error notification EH1 is, when an error occurs in which various errors occur, a sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R, a lighting mode of the game effect lamp 9, the lighting device for effect 90, and other decorative LEDs, a part or all of them. The occurrence of abnormality is notified by the combination of. Alternatively, the effect control execution data stored in ROM 132 may include effect control execution data for executing preview effect YA1. The notice effect YA1 is a sound output from the speakers 8L and 8R, a lighting mode of the game effect lamp 9, the lighting device 90 for effect, and other decorative LEDs, and the movable members 32A, 32B for effect during the variable display of the decorative pattern. , And a combination of some or all of these indicates that the game is controlled to a jackpot game state as an advantageous state.

  FIG. 19 and FIG. 20 are sequence diagrams illustrating a control example in the case of executing the start winning notification SH1. FIG. 19 shows a case where there is no readout delay in which there is no delay in reading out moving image data. FIG. 20 shows a case where there is a read delay that causes a delay in reading moving image data. In the control examples shown in FIGS. 19 and 20, the control up to the start of the reach effect is common. Specifically, when the variable display of the special symbol on the first special symbol display device 4A or the second special symbol display device 4B is started, a variable display start command is transmitted from the main board 11 to the effect control board 12. Is done. For example, the CPU 103 of the game control microcomputer 100 mounted on the main board 11 makes settings for transmitting a variable display result notification command and a change pattern designation command in step S112 of the game control process shown in FIG. . In the effect control board 12, in response to the reception of the variable display start command, the CPU 131 executes the variable display start setting process of step S171 shown in FIGS. Start variable display of. In this way, in response to the start of the variable display of the special symbol, the variable display start setting of the decorative symbol is performed, and the variable display of the decorative symbol is started. Thereafter, the pre-reach effect BR1 may be executed. The pre-reach effect BR1 may be an effect indicating that the game is controlled to the big hit game state by a variable display mode of a decorative symbol, such as a variable display effect of “slip” or “pseudo ream”. Alternatively, the pre-reach effect BR1 may be an effect that indicates that the game is controlled to the big hit game state without depending on the variable display mode of the decorative symbol, such as a notice effect. After that, the reach effect starts, in which the execution of the reach effect is started, in response to reaching the reach establishment in which the variable display state of the decorative symbol becomes the reach state.

  In the control example shown in FIG. 19, the reproduction display of the moving image is started without delay as the reach effect. After the reproduction and display of the moving image is started, the start winning notification SH1 is executed at the time of the first winning or the second starting winning. The start winning notification SH1 can be executed without delay at the time of starting winning by reading the effect control execution data stored in the ROM 132 in response to occurrence of the starting winning. The start winning notification SH1 is a passing area (starting area) through which game balls can pass, such as a first starting winning opening formed in the ordinary winning ball apparatus 6A or a second starting winning opening formed in the ordinary variable winning ball apparatus 6B. ) Is included in the passage assisting effect related to the passing of the game ball. The reach effect by the reproduction display of the moving image includes the audio output from the speakers 8L and 8R executed in synchronization with the video output on the screen of the image display device 5. This audio output is included in the display assisting effect related to the display of the image display device 5.

  After the execution of the reach effect is started in the control example illustrated in FIG. 19, the post-reach effect AR10 may be executed. The post-reach effect AR10 may be an effect indicating cut-in display of an effect image prepared in advance, for example, indicating that it is controlled to the big hit game state. Alternatively, the post-reach effect AR10 may be an effect that does not indicate that it is controlled to the big hit game state, such as a video output or an audio output that explains the content of the reach effect. In the control example shown in FIG. 19, the swing display of the decorative symbol is started after the reproduction display of the moving image started without delay ends. Subsequently, the reach effect ends when the execution of the reach effect ends, and in response to the variable display end where the variable display of the special symbol ends, the display result in the variable display of the decorative symbol is stopped (completely stopped) and determined. The decorative pattern is displayed.

  In the control example illustrated in FIG. 20, a period occurs in which reading of the moving image data used for executing the reproduction and display of the moving image included in the reach effect is delayed, and the display of the moving image is stopped without being started. There is. If the first start winning or the second start winning occurs during the display suspension period, the start winning notification SH1 is executed even during the display suspension period. For example, if the effect control execution data used to execute the start winning notification SH1 includes some or all of the voice control data, the lamp control data, and the motor control data, but does not include the display control data. Good. Alternatively, the effect control execution data used for executing the start winning notification SH1 includes effect control execution data including part or all of voice control data, lamp control data, and motor control data, and effect control execution data including only display control data. The data and the data may be separately prepared. When the read standby signal output from the memory controller 123 is on, the CPU 131 does not use the effect control execution data including only the display control data, and performs control of a part of the sound control data, the lamp control data, and the motor control data. The start winning notification SH1 may be made executable by using the effect control execution data including all of them. For example, the CPU 131 performs the effect control execution prepared in response to the occurrence of the first start prize or the second start prize when performing the effect setting at the start prize in step S161 of the effect control process shown in FIG. The data is read from the ROM 132. Since the start winning notification SH1 is executed using the effect control execution data read out at this time, the starting winning notification SH1 can be executed even during the display stop period without being affected by the delay in the reproduction display of the moving image.

  In the control example shown in FIG. 20, after the execution of the reach effect in which the reproduction display of the moving image is delayed is started, the post-reach effect AR10 may be executed. In this control example, the swing display of the decorative symbol is started before the end of the reproduction display of the moving image with the delay. The timing at which the swing display of the decorative symbol is started is determined in advance by the effect control process timer determination value set in the effect control pattern read from the ROM 132, regardless of whether or not a delay has occurred in the reproduction display of the moving image. It should just be done. In the swinging display of the decorative design, the decorative design to be displayed in the decorative design display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R of "left", "middle", and "right" is accompanied by slight shaking and expansion and contraction. Is displayed, and the display state is a standby state until the stop display (complete stop display) is performed. The decorative symbol that is the target of the fixed display is a fixed decorative symbol derived as a display result in the variable display of the decorative symbol, and may be the final stop symbol determined in step S201 of the variable display start setting process illustrated in FIG. Just fine. The swing display period in which the swing display of the decorative symbol is performed may be a period such as 2 seconds, for example, until a time set in advance in the effect control pattern elapses. In the swing display period, the reproduction and display of the moving image with the delay are continuously performed. The reach effect by the reproduction display of the moving image includes an audio output that is executed in synchronization with the video output as a display auxiliary effect related to the display on the screen of the image display device 5. Therefore, when a delay occurs in the reproduction display of the moving image, the audio output serving as the display assisting effect can be executed with a delay according to the stop period of the reproduction display due to the delay, and even during the swing display period, The control of the audio output to be the delayed display assisting effect is executed. Thus, the swing display period can be a period in which the control delayed by the occurrence of the readout delay can be executed.

  For example, when the variable display corresponding to the variation pattern PA2-3 or the variation pattern PA3-3 shown in FIG. 5 is executed, the variable display time from the start of the variable display to the derivation of the display result becomes longer. Also, moving image data used to execute a reach effect by reproducing and displaying a moving image tends to have a large data capacity. Therefore, there is a high possibility that a delay occurs in the reproduction and display of the moving image. Therefore, when the variable display corresponding to the fluctuation pattern with a long variable display time is executed, the swing display period is set longer than when the variable display corresponding to the fluctuation pattern with a short variable display time is executed. May be set. As a result, even when the playback display of a moving image is likely to be delayed, it is possible to improve the possibility of completing the reach effect by the playback display of the delayed moving image, and to prevent the occurrence of a defect by an appropriate effect without a sense of incongruity. .

  In the control example shown in FIG. 20, when the execution of the reach effect in which the reproduction and display of the moving image is delayed is started, the video output by the reproduction and display of the moving image may be faded in. For example, when starting playback and display of a delayed moving image, the blending ratio of the moving image may be initialized to “0”, and the blending ratio may be updated as time elapses. In this way, by fading in the video output by the delayed moving image reproduction display, when a delay occurs in the moving image reproduction display, it is possible to suppress a sense of discomfort in the display effect using the moving image.

  FIG. 21 shows an example of execution of the start winning notification SH1, and the like. For example, as shown in FIG. 21 (A), when the game ball passes through a starting area included in the passing area such as a first starting winning opening formed in the normal winning ball apparatus 6A, for example, as shown in FIG. 21 (B1). By outputting the sound of “picone!” From the speakers 8L and 8R, the start winning notification SH1 is executed. Alternatively, when the game ball has passed through the starting area, for example, as shown in FIG. 21 (B2), the decoration LED provided inside or around the normally variable winning prize ball device 6A emits a predetermined light such as blue or yellow. By emitting light (lighting) in a color (lamp lighting color), a start winning notification SH1 is executed.

  As shown in FIG. 21 (C), the start prize notification SH1 in which the content of the sound output and the lamp lighting color are different corresponding to each of the plurality of hold display colors by different prize execution ratios depending on the prize determination result. May be executed. The prize-winning determination result is determined by using, for example, numerical data indicating the random number value extracted in step S12 of the game control process shown in FIG. Any result is acceptable. By performing the determination in step S12, it is only necessary to be able to determine whether or not to control to the big hit gaming state before determining whether or not to control to the big hit gaming state. The prize-winning determination result may include “big hit” when controlled to the big hit gaming state and “loss” when not controlled to the big hit gaming state. Alternatively, the prize-winning determination result is determined to be a specific fluctuation pattern in which a specific effect such as a super-reach reach effect is executed instead of the “big hit” and “losing” or in addition to the “big hit” and “losing”. It may include a determination result when the determination is made and a determination result when the determination is not made as the specific variation pattern. The reserved display color is a display color of the reserved display in the start winning storage display area 5H. In the start prize storage display area 5H, a hold display capable of specifying the number of variable display holds is performed based on the hold storage information related to the variable display. As shown in FIG. 21 (C), by setting the content of the sound output and the lamp lighting color corresponding to the hold display color, the start winning notification SH1 can be executed in a different presentation mode depending on the hold display mode. . In the example shown in FIG. 21C, both the content of the audio output and the lamp lighting color are set in correspondence with the hold display color. On the other hand, only one of the audio output content and the lamp lighting color may be set in correspondence with the reserved display color, and the other may be set to a fixed content regardless of the reserved display color.

  FIG. 22 and FIG. 23 are sequence diagrams illustrating a control example in the case of performing the post-reach effect AR1. FIG. 22 shows a case where there is no reading delay in which no delay occurs in reading moving image data. FIG. 23 shows a case where there is a reading delay that causes a delay in reading moving image data. Also in the control examples shown in FIGS. 22 and 23, similarly to the control examples in FIGS. 19 and 20, the control from the start of the variable display to the start of the reach effect is common.

  In the control example shown in FIG. 22, reproduction display of a moving image is started without delay as a reach effect. After the reproduction display of the moving image is started, the post-reach effect AR1 is executed. The after-reach effect AR1 can be executed without delay during the variable display of the decorative symbol using the effect control execution data included in the effect control pattern determined corresponding to the variation pattern, for example. The after-reach effect AR1 may be executed, for example, by detecting an operation performed by a player who presses down the push button 31B, and when an effect execution condition is satisfied based on the detection result. Alternatively, the post-reach effect AR1 may be executed when the effect execution timing has been reached during the variable display of the decorative symbol, regardless of the detection result of the action by the player. The after-reach effect AR1 in which the effect execution condition is satisfied based on the detection result of the motion by the player is included in the detection assisting effect related to the detection of the motion by the player. Regardless of the detection result of the motion by the player, for example, the post-reach effect AR1 for operating the effect movable members 32A, 32B by the driving force of the movable member drive motors 33A, 33B is included in the operation assisting effect relating to the operation of the movable object. . The reach effect by the reproduction display of the moving image includes the audio output from the speakers 8L and 8R executed in synchronization with the video output on the screen of the image display device 5. This audio output is included in the display assisting effect related to the display of the image display device 5.

  In the control example shown in FIG. 22, after the post-reach effect AR1 is executed, the post-reach effect AR2 may be further executed. The post-reach effect AR2 may be an effect that indicates that it is controlled to the big hit gaming state, such as a cut-in display of a prepared effect image, for example. Alternatively, the post-reach effect AR2 may be an effect that does not indicate that it is controlled to the big hit game state, such as a video output or an audio output that explains the content of the reach effect. In the control example shown in FIG. 22, after the reproduction display of the moving image started without delay ends, the swing display of the decorative symbol is started. Subsequently, the reach effect ends when the execution of the reach effect ends, and in response to the variable display end where the variable display of the special symbol ends, the display result in the variable display of the decorative symbol is stopped (completely stopped) and determined. The decorative pattern is displayed.

  In the control example illustrated in FIG. 23, a period occurs in which reading of moving image data used to execute reproduction and display of a moving image included in the reach effect is delayed, and the display of the moving image is stopped without being started. There is. In the display suspension period, when the effect execution condition is satisfied or when the effect execution timing is reached, the post-reach effect AR1 is executed even during the display suspension period. For example, if the effect control execution data used to execute the after-reach effect AR1 is configured to include some or all of the voice control data, the lamp control data, and the motor control data, but not include the display control data. Good. Alternatively, the effect control execution data used to execute the after-reach effect AR1 is effect control execution data including part or all of voice control data, lamp control data, and motor control data, and effect control execution data including only display control data. The data and the data may be separately prepared. When the read standby signal output from the memory controller 123 is on, the CPU 131 does not use the effect control execution data including only the display control data, and performs control of a part of the sound control data, the lamp control data, and the motor control data. The effect AR1 after the reach may be made executable by using the effect control execution data including all of them. For example, when the CPU 131 determines in step S223 that the control data read condition is satisfied based on the timer value of the effect process timer updated in step S222 of the variable display effect process shown in FIG. The effect control execution data constituting the effect control pattern determined in step 203 shown in FIG. The post-reach effect AR1 is executed using the effect control execution data read out at this time, so that the post-reach effect AR1 can be executed even during the display suspension period without being affected by the delay of the moving image reproduction display.

  In the control example shown in FIG. 23, after the execution of the reach effect in which the reproduction display of the moving image is delayed is started, the post-reach effect AR2 may be executed as in the case of FIG. In this control example, the swing display of the decorative symbol is started before the end of the reproduction display of the moving image with the delay. The timing at which the swing display of the decorative symbol is started is determined in advance by the effect control process timer determination value set in the effect control pattern read from the ROM 132, regardless of whether or not a delay has occurred in the reproduction display of the moving image. It should just be done. In the swinging display of the decorative design, the decorative design to be displayed in the decorative design display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R of "left", "middle", and "right" is accompanied by slight shaking and expansion and contraction. Is displayed, and the display state is a standby state until the stop display (complete stop display) is performed. The swing display period in which the swing display of the decorative symbol is performed may be a period such as 2 seconds, for example, until a time set in advance in the effect control pattern elapses. In the swing display period, the reproduction and display of the moving image with the delay are continuously performed. The reach effect by the reproduction display of the moving image includes an audio output that is executed in synchronization with the video output as a display auxiliary effect related to the display on the screen of the image display device 5. Therefore, when a delay occurs in the reproduction display of the moving image, the audio output serving as the display assisting effect can be executed with a delay according to the stop period of the reproduction display due to the delay, and even during the swing display period, The control of the audio output to be the delayed display assisting effect is executed. Thus, the swing display period can be a period in which the control delayed by the occurrence of the readout delay can be executed.

  For example, when the variable display corresponding to the variation pattern PA2-3 or the variation pattern PA3-3 shown in FIG. 5 is executed, the variable display time from the start of the variable display to the derivation of the display result becomes longer. Also, moving image data used to execute a reach effect by reproducing and displaying a moving image tends to have a large data capacity. Therefore, there is a high possibility that a delay occurs in the reproduction and display of the moving image. Therefore, when the variable display corresponding to the fluctuation pattern with a long variable display time is executed, the swing display period is set longer than when the variable display corresponding to the fluctuation pattern with a short variable display time is executed. May be set. As a result, even when the playback display of a moving image is likely to be delayed, it is possible to improve the possibility of completing the reach effect by the playback display of the delayed moving image, and to prevent the occurrence of a defect by an appropriate effect without a sense of incongruity. .

  In the control example shown in FIG. 23, when the execution of the reach effect in which the reproduction and display of the moving image is delayed is started, the video output by the reproduction and display of the moving image may be faded in. For example, when starting playback and display of a delayed moving image, the blending ratio of the moving image may be initialized to “0”, and the blending ratio may be updated as time elapses. In this way, by fading in the video output by the delayed moving image reproduction display, when a delay occurs in the moving image reproduction display, it is possible to suppress a sense of discomfort in the display effect using the moving image.

  FIG. 24 illustrates an example of execution of the post-reach effect AR1. For example, as shown in FIG. 24A, when an effect execution condition is established based on detection of an operation by a player such as a continuous tapping operation of repeatedly pressing the push button 31B, for example, as shown in FIG. The effect AR1 after the reach is executed by the sound output for outputting the sound of “Chance!” From the speakers 8L and 8R. Alternatively, when the effect execution condition is satisfied, the after-reach effect AR1 is executed in a lighting mode in which the effect lighting accessory 90 is turned on as shown in, for example, FIG. 24 (B2). Alternatively, when the effect execution condition is satisfied, for example, as shown in FIG. 24 (B3), the movable members 32A, 32B for effect are operated (advanced) by the driving force of the movable member drive motors 33A, 33B, so as to reach after reaching. The effect AR1 is executed. The post-reach effect AR1 may be any effect that can be executed by any one of audio output, lighting mode, operation of the movable member, or a combination of some or all of these.

  As shown in FIG. 24 (C), the post-reach effect AR1 may be made executable at a different operation execution ratio depending on the variable display result. The variable display result may be, for example, a result determined using a random value in step S102 of the game control process process shown in FIG. The variable display result may include “big hit” corresponding to the case where the game is controlled to the big hit gaming state and “loss” corresponding to the case where the big hit gaming state is not controlled. Alternatively, the variable display result may be replaced with "big hit" and "losing", or in addition to "big hit" and "losing", "positive change" corresponding to the case where the hit state is changed after the big hit gaming state, and "big hit" A “non-probable change” corresponding to a case where the probable change state does not occur after the end of the game state may be included. The operation-time execution ratio shown in FIG. 24C is set to be higher when the variable display result is “big hit” than when the variable display result is “losing”. Therefore, when the variable display result is "big hit", the after-reach effect AR1 is more easily executed than when the variable display result is "losing". Note that the effect state of the post-reach effect AR1 may be determined at a different ratio according to the variable display result, without being limited to the operation execution ratio different according to the variable display result. In this case, the degree of expectation that the variable display result becomes “big hit” and the state is controlled to the big hit gaming state can be made different according to the effect mode of the after-reach effect AR1. Further, the operation-time execution ratio may be varied according to the variation pattern, or the production mode of the post-reach effect AR1 may be determined at a different ratio according to the variation pattern.

  The after-reach effect AR1 detects an operation by the player pressing the push button 31B when the promotion notification for prompting the operation of the player is not executed, and executes the effect when the effect execution condition is satisfied based on the detection result. May be done. During the display stop period in which the display of the moving image is not started and the display is stopped, when the promotion notification for prompting the operation of the player is not executed, the operation by the player pressing down the push button 31B is detected. The post-reach effect AR1 may be enabled based on the detection result.

  The remaining time of the operation validity period may be notified by displaying an effect image on the screen of the image display device 5 as the promotion notification that prompts the player to perform an operation. The operation validity period is a validity detection period for effectively detecting an operation performed by a player who presses the push button 31B. In the display suspension period in which the reproduction display of the moving image is stopped without being started due to the delay, the remaining time of the operation effective period may not be notified or the display of the remaining time may not be updated. When the promotion notification is not properly executed during the display suspension period, the remaining time of the operation valid period may be continuously reduced as in the normal case without delay in controlling the progress of the effect. Alternatively, the measurement of the remaining time may be temporarily stopped so as not to decrease unlike the normal case without delay. Every time an operation by the player who presses the push button 31B during the operation valid period is detected, the after-reach effect AR1 is executed at the operation execution ratio according to the variable display result as shown in FIG. It may be determined whether or not to do so. Then, when it is determined that the post-reach effect AR1 is to be executed, one of the sound output, the lighting mode, and the operation of the movable member shown in FIGS. 24 (B1) to (B3), or part or all of them , A post-reach effect AR1 may be executed.

  FIG. 25 is a timing chart showing a control example when updating the remaining time of the operation validity period. FIGS. 25 (A1) and (A2) show a case where there is no reading delay in which no delay occurs in reading moving image data. FIGS. 25 (B1) to (B3) show a case where there is a read delay that causes a delay in reading moving image data. The timing at which the moving image reproduction shown in FIG. 25 (A1) is changed from “none” to “present” is the reproduction start setting timing specified by the display control data included in the effect control execution data constituting the effect control pattern. This is the timing set at the design stage as the start of reproduction of the moving image.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 25 (A1), in the case where there is no read delay in which no delay occurs in reading of moving image data, the remaining time of the operation valid period is set to the time shown in FIG. Is set as shown in FIG. The remaining time of the operation valid period may be measured by using a timer value of a valid period timer provided in a predetermined area (effect control timer setting unit) of the RAM 133, for example. As shown in FIG. 25 (A2), after the initial setting time T0 is set corresponding to the reproduction start setting timing, the remaining time of the operation effective period is reduced with the lapse of time. When the remaining time of the operation valid period becomes “0”, the operation valid period ends. In addition, before the remaining time of the operation valid period becomes “0”, if the condition for ending the operation valid period is satisfied based on the detection result of the operation performed by the player pressing the push button 31B, May end the operation validity period. The end condition of the operation effective period is set in advance so that it can be satisfied based on the detection of the operation, for example, when it is determined that the post-reach effect AR1 is to be executed at the operation execution ratio shown in FIG. It only has to be determined.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 25 (B1), even in the case where there is a read delay that causes a delay in the reading of moving image data, the remaining time of the operation valid period corresponds to FIG. ) And (B3) are set. As an example of control after that, as shown in FIG. 25 (B2), the remaining time of the operation valid period is reduced similarly to the case without the readout delay, and when the remaining time becomes “0”, the operation valid period is reduced. It may end. As another example, as shown in FIG. 25 (B3), the remaining time of the operation valid period may be temporarily stopped so as not to decrease in accordance with the delay of the start of reproduction of the moving image. In this case, unlike in the case where there is no readout delay, in the display stop period in which the reproduction start of the moving image is delayed and the display is stopped, the timer stop control that maintains the timer value of the valid period timer without updating is performed. What should be done is.

  FIG. 25C illustrates a display example of the meter image MT1 as an example of executing the promotion notification. In this display example, the meter image MT1 is displayed on the screen of the image display device 5 together with an effect image MS1 indicating a character for notifying a message of “press!” And an effect image BT1 indicating a character corresponding to the push button 31B. Is done. The meter image MT1 may be displayed in an updatable manner using video data separated from moving image data. In this case, the display of the meter image MT1 is also stopped from being updated during the display suspension period due to a read delay that causes a delay in reading the moving image data. Therefore, for example, as shown in FIG. 25 (B2), in the case where the remaining time of the operation valid period is reduced in the same manner as in the case without the readout delay even when there is the readout delay, the operation notified by the display state of the meter image MT1. There may be a difference between the remaining time of the effective period and the remaining time of the operation effective period actually measured using the timer value of the effective period timer. Therefore, for example, as shown in FIG. 25 (B3), if there is a readout delay, if the operation is temporarily stopped so as not to reduce the remaining time of the operation effective period, the operation effective period notified by the display state of the meter image MT1 is displayed. There is no difference between the remaining time and the remaining time of the operation validity period actually measured using the timer value of the validity period timer, and it is possible to prevent the occurrence of a malfunction by an appropriate effect without discomfort. However, by controlling the stop of the timer, an operation validity period longer than that in the design stage is provided. Therefore, in the design stage, an operation by the player at an unintended timing is detected, and the post-reach effect AR1 is detected. May be executed, thereby causing a problem.

  The meter image MT1 shown in FIG. 25C may be displayed in an updatable manner by animation display using still image data prepared separately from the moving image data. Still image data used for updating and displaying the meter image MT1 may be stored in a predetermined area of the VRAM 144 in advance. The update display of the meter image MT1 may be controlled using the effect control execution data included in the effect control pattern read from the ROM 132 by the CPU 131. In this case, updating of the display of the meter image MT1 may be stopped during the display stop period due to a read delay that causes a delay in reading of the moving image data. Note that, even during the display suspension period, the display of the meter image MT1 may be updated by using the still image data stored in the VRAM 144 in advance. Even when the update display of the meter image MT1 is stopped during the display stop period, when the display stop period ends, the display state becomes the same as that without readout delay according to the setting in the effect control execution data. Then, the display of the meter image MT1 may be updated. Thus, as shown in FIG. 25 (B2), for example, as shown in FIG. 25 (B2), in the case where the remaining time of the operation effective period is reduced in the same manner as in the case where there is no readout delay, at least after the display stop period ends, the meter There is no difference between the remaining time of the operation validity period notified by the display state of the image MT1 and the remaining time of the operation validity period actually measured using the timer value of the validity period timer. Failure can be prevented. However, when the display suspension period ends, the display state of the meter image MT1 may change discontinuously, so that the display of the meter image MT1 may be uncomfortable and cause a problem. Further, for example, as shown in FIG. 25 (B3), in the case where the operation is temporarily stopped so as not to reduce the remaining time of the operation effective period when there is a readout delay, the display of the meter image MT1 is performed at least after the display stop period is completed. There is a possibility that a difference may occur between the remaining time of the operation validity period notified by the state and the remaining time of the operation validity period actually measured using the timer value of the validity period timer. When the CPU 131 or the VDP 135 controls the timer stop for the valid period timer during the display stop period, the update display stop control for stopping the update display of the meter image MT1 may also be performed. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of a problem by an appropriate effect without a sense of incongruity.

  The after-reach effect AR1 for operating (advancing) the effect movable members 32A and 32B shown in FIG. 24 (B3) may be executed irrespective of the detection result of the operation by the player. For example, when the variable display of the decorative symbol is started, the effect control pattern corresponding to the fluctuation pattern is determined in step S203 of the variable display start setting process shown in FIG. Then, in the specific effect control pattern determined corresponding to the specific fluctuation pattern, as the motor control data included in the effect control execution data associated with the effect control process timer determination value, when the effect execution timing is reached The data used for executing the post-reach effect AR1 for operating (advancing) the effect movable members 32A and 32B may be set in advance. These specific effect control patterns may be determined at different rates according to the variable display results. The determination ratio may be set so that the variable display result is higher when the variable display result is “big hit” than when the variable display result is “losing”. With this setting, when the variable display result is "big hit", the after-reach effect AR1 is more easily executed than when the variable display result is "losing". In addition, it is not limited to the thing which makes the execution ratio of the effect AR1 after reach which operates the production | movement movable members 32A and 32B according to a variable display result. May be determined. In this case, according to the operation mode of the effect movable members 32A, 32B, the variable display result becomes "big hit", and the degree of expectation to be controlled to the big hit gaming state can be made different.

  FIG. 26 and FIG. 27 are sequence diagrams illustrating a control example when the error notification EH1 is executed. FIG. 26 shows a case where there is no reading delay in which there is no delay in reading moving image data. FIG. 27 illustrates a case where there is a read delay that causes a delay in reading moving image data. 26 and 27, the control from the start of the variable display to the start of the reach effect is common, similarly to the control examples of FIGS. 19 and 20.

  In the control example shown in FIG. 26, the playback display of the moving image is started without delay as the reach effect. After the reproduction display of the moving image is started, the error notification EH1 is executed when an error is detected in which the occurrence of the error is detected. The error notification EH1 can be executed without delay when an error is detected by reading the effect control execution data stored in the ROM 132 in response to the detection of the occurrence of the error. The error notification EH1 is included in an abnormality notification auxiliary effect related to notification of occurrence of an abnormality in the pachinko gaming machine 1. The reach effect by the reproduction display of the moving image includes the audio output from the speakers 8L and 8R executed in synchronization with the video output on the screen of the image display device 5. This audio output is included in the display assisting effect related to the display of the image display device 5.

  After the execution of the reach effect is started in the control example illustrated in FIG. 26, the post-reach effect AR10 may be executed. The post-reach effect AR10 may be an effect indicating cut-in display of an effect image prepared in advance, for example, indicating that it is controlled to the big hit game state. Alternatively, the post-reach effect AR10 may be an effect that does not indicate that it is controlled to the big hit game state, such as a video output or an audio output that explains the content of the reach effect. In the control example shown in FIG. 26, after the reproduction display of the moving image started without delay ends, the swing display of the decorative symbol is started. Subsequently, the reach effect ends when the execution of the reach effect ends, and in response to the variable display end where the variable display of the special symbol ends, the display result in the variable display of the decorative symbol is stopped (completely stopped) and determined. The decorative pattern is displayed.

  In the control example illustrated in FIG. 27, a period occurs in which reading of moving image data used to execute reproduction and display of a moving image included in the reach effect is delayed, and the display of the moving image is stopped without being started. There is. If the occurrence of an error in the pachinko gaming machine 1 is detected during the display suspension period, the error notification EH1 is executed even during the display suspension period. For example, the effect control execution data used to execute the error notification EH1 may include some or all of the voice control data, the lamp control data, and the motor control data, but may not include the display control data. . Alternatively, effect control execution data used for executing error notification EH1 includes effect control execution data including a part or all of voice control data, lamp control data, and motor control data, and effect control execution data including only display control data. May be separately prepared. When the read standby signal output from the memory controller 123 is on, the CPU 131 does not use the effect control execution data including only the display control data, and performs control of a part of the sound control data, the lamp control data, and the motor control data. The error notification EH1 may be made executable using the effect control execution data including all of them. For example, in the effect control main process shown in FIG. 6, when executing the error notification process of step S60, the CPU 131 reads from the ROM 132 the effect control execution data prepared in advance in response to the detection of the occurrence of an error. read out. At this time, the error notification EH1 is executed using the effect control execution data read out, so that the error notification EH1 can be executed even during the display suspension period without being affected by the delay in the reproduction and display of the moving image.

  In the control example shown in FIG. 27, after the execution of the reach effect in which the reproduction display of the moving image is delayed is started, the post-reach effect AR10 may be executed. In this control example, the swing display of the decorative symbol is started before the end of the reproduction display of the moving image with the delay. The timing at which the swing display of the decorative symbol is started is determined in advance by the effect control process timer determination value set in the effect control pattern read from the ROM 132, regardless of whether or not a delay has occurred in the reproduction display of the moving image. It should just be done. In the swinging display of the decorative design, the decorative design to be displayed in the decorative design display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R of "left", "middle", and "right" is accompanied by slight shaking and expansion and contraction. Is displayed, and the display state is a standby state until the stop display (complete stop display) is performed. The swing display period in which the swing display of the decorative symbol is performed may be a period such as 2 seconds, for example, until a time set in advance in the effect control pattern elapses. In the swing display period, the reproduction and display of the moving image with the delay are continuously performed. The reach effect by the reproduction display of the moving image includes an audio output that is executed in synchronization with the video output as a display auxiliary effect related to the display on the screen of the image display device 5. Therefore, when a delay occurs in the reproduction display of the moving image, the audio output serving as the display assisting effect can be executed with a delay according to the stop period of the reproduction display due to the delay, and even during the swing display period, The control of the audio output to be the delayed display assisting effect is executed. Thus, the swing display period can be a period in which the control delayed by the occurrence of the readout delay can be executed.

  For example, when the variable display corresponding to the variation pattern PA2-3 or the variation pattern PA3-3 shown in FIG. 5 is executed, the variable display time from the start of the variable display to the derivation of the display result becomes longer. Also, moving image data used to execute a reach effect by reproducing and displaying a moving image tends to have a large data capacity. Therefore, there is a high possibility that a delay occurs in the reproduction and display of the moving image. Therefore, when the variable display corresponding to the fluctuation pattern with a long variable display time is executed, the swing display period is set longer than when the variable display corresponding to the fluctuation pattern with a short variable display time is executed. May be set. As a result, even when the playback display of a moving image is likely to be delayed, it is possible to improve the possibility of completing the reach effect by the playback display of the delayed moving image, and to prevent the occurrence of a defect by an appropriate effect without a sense of incongruity. .

  In the control example shown in FIG. 27, when the execution of the reach effect in which the reproduction and display of the moving image is delayed is started, the video output by the reproduction and display of the moving image may be faded in. For example, when starting playback and display of a delayed moving image, the blending ratio of the moving image may be initialized to “0”, and the blending ratio may be updated as time elapses. In this way, by fading in the video output by the delayed moving image reproduction display, when a delay occurs in the moving image reproduction display, it is possible to suppress a sense of discomfort in the display effect using the moving image.

  FIG. 28 shows an example of execution of the error notification EH1. For example, when an error related to a power supply abnormality (power supply abnormality error) such as an error due to a short circuit abnormality of the switch power supply is detected, a message “power supply abnormality is detected” is displayed as shown in FIG. The error notification EH1 is executed by outputting the notification sound from the speakers 8L and 8R. Alternatively, when the occurrence of an error (door opening error) due to the front door being open is detected, as shown in FIG. Is output from the speakers 8L and 8R, thereby executing the error notification EH1. Alternatively, when the occurrence of an error (full error) due to the lower plate being full of game balls is detected, a message “Please remove the ball” is displayed as shown in FIG. 28 (C). The error notification EH1 is executed by outputting the notification sound from the speakers 8L and 8R.

  In the effect control main process shown in FIG. 6, when the error notification process is executed in step S60, any one of a plurality of errors is determined according to the effect control command transmitted from the main board 11. Determine if it has occurred. Corresponding to this determination result, the effect control execution data for error notification stored in the ROM 132 is selected and read, and the error notification EH1 is executed using the read effect control execution data. Thus, the error notification EH1 included in the abnormality notification auxiliary effect may be executed in different effect modes depending on the determined abnormality.

  FIG. 29 and FIG. 30 are sequence diagrams illustrating a control example in the case of executing the notice effect AY1. FIG. 29 shows a case where there is no reading delay in which there is no delay in reading moving image data. FIG. 30 shows a case where there is a read delay that causes a delay in reading moving image data. Also in the control examples shown in FIGS. 29 and 30, the control from the start of the variable display to the start of the reach effect is common as in the control examples of FIGS. 19 and 20.

  In the control example shown in FIG. 29, the reproduction display of the moving image is started without delay as the reach effect. After the reproduction display of the moving image is started, the announcement effect YA1 is executed. For example, the announcement effect YA1 can be executed without delay during the variable display of the decorative symbol using the effect control execution data included in the effect control pattern determined corresponding to the announcement effect pattern. The notice effect YA1 is executed when a predetermined notice execution timing is reached, corresponding to the effect control process timer determination value set in the effect control pattern during the variable display of the decorative symbol. The notice effect YA1 is included in the notice auxiliary effect relating to the notice. The reach effect by the reproduction display of the moving image includes the audio output from the speakers 8L and 8R executed in synchronization with the video output on the screen of the image display device 5. This audio output is included in the display assisting effect related to the display of the image display device 5.

  After the announcement effect YA1 is executed in the control example shown in FIG. 29, the post-reach effect AR10 may be executed. The post-reach effect AR10 may be an effect indicating cut-in display of an effect image prepared in advance, for example, indicating that it is controlled to the big hit game state. Alternatively, the post-reach effect AR10 may be an effect that does not indicate that it is controlled to the big hit game state, such as a video output or an audio output that explains the content of the reach effect. In the control example shown in FIG. 29, the swing display of the decorative symbol is started after the reproduction display of the moving image started without delay ends. Subsequently, the reach effect ends when the execution of the reach effect ends, and in response to the variable display end where the variable display of the special symbol ends, the display result in the variable display of the decorative symbol is stopped (completely stopped) and determined. The decorative pattern is displayed.

  In the control example illustrated in FIG. 30, a period occurs in which reading of the moving image data used to execute the reproduction display of the moving image included in the reach effect is delayed, and the display of the moving image is stopped without being started. There is. If the notice execution timing has been reached during the display stop period, the notice effect YA1 is executed even during the display stop period. For example, the effect control execution data used for executing the notice effect YA1 may include some or all of the voice control data, the lamp control data, and the motor control data, but may not include the display control data. . Alternatively, effect control execution data used for executing the notice effect YA1 includes effect control execution data including a part or all of voice control data, lamp control data, and motor control data, and effect control execution data including only display control data. May be separately prepared. When the read standby signal output from the memory controller 123 is on, the CPU 131 does not use the effect control execution data including only the display control data, and performs control of a part of the sound control data, the lamp control data, and the motor control data. What is necessary is just to enable the notice effect YA1 using the effect control execution data including all of them. For example, when the CPU 131 determines in step S223 that the control data read condition is satisfied based on the timer value of the effect process timer updated in step S222 of the variable display effect process shown in FIG. The effect control execution data constituting the effect control pattern determined in step 203 shown in FIG. At this time, the notice effect YA1 is executed using the effect control execution data read out, so that the notice effect YA1 can be executed even during the display suspension period without being affected by the delay in the reproduction display of the moving image.

  In the control example shown in FIG. 30, after the execution of the reach effect in which the reproduction display of the moving image is delayed is started, the post-reach effect AR10 may be executed, as in the case of FIG. In this control example, the swing display of the decorative symbol is started before the end of the reproduction display of the moving image with the delay. The timing at which the swing display of the decorative symbol is started is determined in advance by the effect control process timer determination value set in the effect control pattern read from the ROM 132, regardless of whether or not a delay has occurred in the reproduction display of the moving image. It should just be done. In the swinging display of the decorative design, the decorative design to be displayed in the decorative design display areas 5L, 5C, and 5R of "left", "middle", and "right" is accompanied by slight shaking and expansion and contraction. Is displayed, and the display state is a standby state until the stop display (complete stop display) is performed. The swing display period in which the swing display of the decorative symbol is performed may be a period such as 2 seconds, for example, until a time set in advance in the effect control pattern elapses. In the swing display period, the reproduction and display of the moving image with the delay are continuously performed. The reach effect by the reproduction display of the moving image includes an audio output that is executed in synchronization with the video output as a display auxiliary effect related to the display on the screen of the image display device 5. Therefore, when a delay occurs in the reproduction display of the moving image, the audio output serving as the display assisting effect can be executed with a delay according to the stop period of the reproduction display due to the delay, and even during the swing display period, The control of the audio output to be the delayed display assisting effect is executed. Thus, the swing display period can be a period in which the control delayed by the occurrence of the readout delay can be executed.

  For example, when the variable display corresponding to the variation pattern PA2-3 or the variation pattern PA3-3 shown in FIG. 5 is executed, the variable display time from the start of the variable display to the derivation of the display result becomes longer. Also, moving image data used to execute a reach effect by reproducing and displaying a moving image tends to have a large data capacity. Therefore, there is a high possibility that a delay occurs in the reproduction and display of the moving image. Therefore, when the variable display corresponding to the fluctuation pattern with a long variable display time is executed, the swing display period is set longer than when the variable display corresponding to the fluctuation pattern with a short variable display time is executed. May be set. As a result, even when the playback display of a moving image is likely to be delayed, it is possible to improve the possibility of completing the reach effect by the playback display of the delayed moving image, and to prevent the occurrence of a defect by an appropriate effect without a sense of incongruity. .

  In the control example shown in FIG. 30, when the execution of the reach effect in which the reproduction and display of the moving image is delayed is started, the video output by the reproduction and display of the moving image may be faded in. For example, when starting playback and display of a delayed moving image, the blending ratio of the moving image may be initialized to “0”, and the blending ratio may be updated as time elapses. In this way, by fading in the video output by the delayed moving image reproduction display, when a delay occurs in the moving image reproduction display, it is possible to suppress a sense of discomfort in the display effect using the moving image.

  FIG. 31 shows an example of execution of the notice effect YA1. When the notice execution timing has been reached, the notice effect YA1 is executed, for example, by the sound output for outputting the sound of "hot heat!" Shown in FIG. 31 (A1) from the speakers 8L and 8R. Alternatively, when the notice execution timing has been reached, the notice effect YA1 is executed in a lighting mode of turning on the effect lighting accessory 90, for example, as shown in FIG. 31 (A2). Alternatively, when the notice execution timing has been reached, for example, as shown in FIG. 31 (A3), the notice movable effect is achieved by operating (advancing) the effect movable members 32A, 32B by the driving force of the movable member drive motors 33A, 33B. YA1 is executed. The notice effect YA1 may be any effect that can be executed by any one of the sound output, the lighting mode, and the operation of the movable member, or a combination of some or all of these.

  As shown in FIG. 31 (B), whether or not to execute the notice effect YA1 may be determined as the presence or absence of the notice effect at a different rate according to the change pattern indicated by the change pattern designation command. In this case, for example, in step S202 of the variable display start setting process shown in FIG. 8, the CPU 131 determines whether or not to execute the notice effect YA1 at a different rate according to the variation pattern as shown in FIG. decide. In the example shown in FIG. 31B, the announcement effect YA1 can be executed at a predetermined ratio in the case of the variation pattern PA2-3 and in the case of the variation pattern PA3-3. As shown in FIG. 5, the variation pattern PA2-3 is in the reach state in response to the case where the variable display mode of the decorative symbol is "reach" among the cases where the variable display result is "losing". Later, the normal reach effect, the super A reach effect, and the super B reach effect are variation patterns that can be sequentially executed. The fluctuation pattern PA3-3 is a fluctuation pattern that can execute a reach effect similar to the fluctuation pattern PA2-3 after the li-zhi state is reached in response to the case where the variable display result is "big hit". The determination ratio shown in FIG. 31B is set such that the ratio of the execution of the notice effect YA1 is higher in the case of the variation pattern PA3-3 than in the case of the variation pattern PA2-3. Therefore, when the variable display result is "big hit", the notice effect YA1 is more easily executed than when the variable display result is "losing". Also, in the reach effect of Super B executed in response to the variation patterns PA2-3 and PA3-3, the ratio of the variable display result to "big hit" is higher than in the case where the normal reach effect is executed. This is the super direct reach reach. For example, the notice effect YA1 may be executable before the reach effect of the super B is started in response to the start of the reach effect of the super A by the reproduction display of the moving image. When the announcement effect YA1 is executed, it is possible to announce that the super B reach effect is executed corresponding to the variation pattern PA2-3 or the variation pattern PA3-3, so that the variable display result is "big hit". It is possible to dramatically increase the player's expectation of becoming.

  The present invention is not limited to determining whether or not to execute the notice effect YA1 at a different rate according to the change pattern. The effect mode of the notice effect YA1 may be determined at a different rate according to the change pattern. In this case, the degree of expectation that the variable display result becomes “big hit” and is controlled to the big hit game state, or the degree of expectation that a specific effect such as the reach effect of Super B is executed, according to the effect mode of the notice effect YA1, Can be different. In addition, if the variable display mode of the decorative symbol is a reach variation pattern corresponding to “reach”, regardless of the variation pattern, it depends on whether the variable display result is “losing” or “big hit”. It may be determined whether or not to execute the notice effect YA1 at a different rate, or the effect of the notice effect YA1 may be determined at a different rate depending on whether the variable display result is “losing” or “big hit”. It may be determined.

  The announcement effect YA1 may be executed based on the detection result of the operation of the player who presses the push button 31B during the operation valid period, as in the case of the effect AR1 after the reach. In this case, the promotion notification for prompting the action of the player may be executed. Good. When the promotion notification is not executed, an operation by a player pressing down the push button 31B may be detected, and the notice effect YA1 may be made executable based on the detection result.

  The notice effect period in which the notice effect YA1 is executed may include the entire display stop period during which the reproduction display of the moving image is not started and the display is stopped, or may include a part of the display stop period. Alternatively, the display suspension period may include all of the notice effect period, or the display stop period may include a part of the notice effect period. As described above, the preview effect period and the display suspension period may be controlled so that the preview effect YA can be executed as long as the display suspension period is at least the preview effect period when at least some of the periods overlap each other. .

  FIG. 32 is a timing chart showing a control example in the case of executing the notice effect YA1. FIG. 32A shows an example of controlling the reproduction of a moving image in the case where there is no delay in reading moving image data and there is no delay. FIG. 32B shows a control example of moving image reproduction in a case where there is a read delay that causes a delay in reading moving image data. FIG. 32C shows a control example of executing the notice effect YA1. The timing at which the moving image reproduction shown in FIG. 32A is changed from “none” to “present” is the reproduction start setting timing specified by the display control data included in the effect control execution data constituting the effect control pattern. This is the timing set at the design stage as the start of reproduction of the moving image.

  For example, there is no reading delay in which there is no delay in reading moving image data as shown in FIG. 32A, or there is a reading delay in which reading of moving image data has a delay as shown in FIG. Regardless of the case, the notice effect YA1 is executed by reaching the notice execution timing before the reach in which the variable display state of the decorative symbol becomes the reach state as shown in FIG. Is started. Thereafter, the notice effect YA1 is executed until the notice effect period ends over the reproduction start setting timing. In the case of the readout delay shown in FIG. 32B, although the reproduction of the moving image is delayed, the reproduction of the moving image is started before the end of the notice effect period. In this case, the notice effect period in which the notice effect YA1 is executed includes the entire display stop period during which the reproduction display of the moving image is not started and the display is stopped. The notice effect YA1 uses the effect control execution data and the like that constitute the effect control pattern determined in correspondence with the notice effect pattern, regardless of whether or not the display is stopped, whether or not the sound is output, the lighting mode, and the movable member. , Or a combination of some or all of these operations.

  For example, when the display suspension period is prolonged, the preview production period in which the preview production YA1 is executed may end before the display suspension period ends. Alternatively, the notice effect period in which the notice effect YA1 is executed may be started after the reproduction start setting timing. In this case, the notice execution period may be started after the display stop period is started and before the display stop period is ended. Further, when the display suspension period is lengthened, the notice execution period may end before the display suspension period ends. As described above, regardless of the relationship between the notice effect period in which the notice effect YA1 is executed and the display stop period, the notice effect YA1 uses the effect control execution data constituting the effect control pattern. By controlling the execution, it is sufficient that the execution can be performed in a predetermined announcement effect period.

  The present invention is not limited to the above embodiment, and various modifications and applications are possible. For example, the pachinko gaming machine 1 does not need to have all the technical features shown in the above-described 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. For example, of the features described in the above embodiment, any one of a feature for preventing occurrence of a malfunction, a feature for appropriately protecting stored data, and a feature for executing an appropriate effect, or What is necessary is just to have the feature which combined these at least one part.

  In the above embodiment, as shown in FIG. 14A, video data is obtained by multiplexing compression-encoded video data and audio data in a predetermined container format as moving image data. It has been described that the display control of the image display device 5 and the control of the output of the effect sound on the speakers 8L and 8R are executed synchronously so that a moving image whose output and audio output are synchronized is reproduced. On the other hand, for example, by setting the effect control execution data constituting the effect control pattern stored in the ROM 132, the display control of the image display device 5 and the output control of the effect sound in the speakers 8L and 8R in the reproduction of the moving image. May be executed synchronously. In this case, when reading out the image data or the audio data stored in the effect data memory 123, if a delay in reading one of the storage data is detected, the control using the other storage data is advanced. The display control and the production sound output control may be executed in synchronization with each other in a standby state.

  The present invention can be applied not only to the pachinko gaming machine 1 but also to a slot machine and the like. The slot machine is an arbitrary gaming machine that performs a predetermined game such as a variable display of a symbol serving as a plurality of types of identification information, and can provide a predetermined game value based on the game result, more specifically, A variable display device that allows the game to be started by setting a predetermined bet amount (the number of medals or the number of credits) for one game, and that variably displays a plurality of types of identification information (symbols) each of which can be identified. One game is completed by displaying and displaying the display results of a plurality of reels and the like, and a win is achieved according to the display result (for example, a win of cherry, a win of watermelon, a win of bell, a win of replay, a win of BB, a win of RB, etc.). Is a gaming machine that can be generated. In such a slot machine, the hardware resources including the game control microcomputer for performing the game control and the software for performing the predetermined processing cooperate with each other, so that the pachinko game described in the above embodiment is performed. What is necessary is just to be comprised so that it may have all or some of the features which the machine 1 has.

  In addition, the device configuration and various operations of the gaming machine 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 may enclose the gaming media and score based on the occurrence of a prize. Can also be applied to an enclosed game machine. Slot machines are not limited to those in which the number of bets is set using medals and credits as gaming values, but only slot machines in which the number of bets are set using gaming balls as gaming values, or only credits as gaming values May be used to set a bet amount. The game executed in the gaming machine may be any game, and may be at least controllable to an advantageous state advantageous to the player, or may be capable of providing an advantageous gaming value to the player. There may be.

  As described above, in the gaming machine such as the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to the present application, the WDT clear setting during reading is performed in step S281 of the effect data transfer process during control shown in FIG. Since resetting can be suppressed, occurrence of a failure can be prevented.

  In the in-control memory inspection process shown in FIG. 10, based on the determination that the memory inspection interval has elapsed in step S252, the memory inspection is executed by the control in step S257, and if the data transfer condition is satisfied. Since the replacement process of transferring the storage data of the defective area to the replacement area can be performed, the protection process for protecting the storage data can be appropriately performed.

  In the control example shown in FIG. 20, the start winning notification SH1 can be executed even during the display stop period in which the reproduction display of the moving image is not started and the display is stopped, so that the effect can be appropriately executed.

  In the control example shown in FIG. 23, the post-reach effect AR1 can be executed even during the display stop period in which the display of the moving image is stopped without starting the reproduction and display of the moving image. it can.

  In the control example shown in FIG. 23, the post-reach effect AR1 can be executed even during the display stop period in which the display of the moving image is stopped without starting the reproduction and display of the moving image. I can do it.

  In the control example shown in FIG. 27, the error notification EH1 can be executed even during the display stop period in which the display of the moving image is stopped without starting the display of the moving image.

  In the control example shown in FIG. 30, the notice effect YA1 can be executed even in the display stop period in which the display of the moving image is stopped without starting the reproduction display, so that the effect relating to the notice can be appropriately executed.

  As shown in FIG. 13, the storage area of the effect data memory 123 includes a data area that is a normal use area and a redundant area that is an alternative use area, so that it is possible to prevent the occurrence of a defect, and Can be appropriately executed.

  In step S455 of the memory inspection process shown in FIG. 12, control is performed to transfer the storage data of the defective block, which becomes the defective area of the data area, to the alternative area, which becomes the alternative area of the redundant area. In addition, a protection process for protecting stored data can be appropriately executed.

  In step S271 of the effect data transfer process during control shown in FIG. 11, it is determined whether or not the effect data stored in the effect data memory 123 is being read out.

  As shown in FIG. 14A, the moving image data is configured by multiplexing video data related to display control and audio data related to output control of a production sound as a series of data. Since the control and the control can be executed in synchronization, the effect can be appropriately executed.

  In the control examples shown in FIG. 20, FIG. 23, FIG. 27, and FIG. 30, control such as reproduction display of a delayed moving image can be executed in a period such as a swing display period before a display result of variable display is derived. Therefore, the effect can be appropriately performed.

  In the control effect data transfer processing shown in FIG. 11, when the number of clears during reading reaches the clear upper limit determination value in step S280, clearing of the watchdog timer 134 by the setting in step S281 is limited. Occurrence can be prevented.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Pachinko gaming machine 5 ... Image display device 6A ... Ordinary prize ball device 6B ... Ordinary variable prize ball device 8L, 8R ... Speaker 9 ... Game effect lamp 11 ... Main board 12 ... Effect control board 31A ... Stick controller 31B ... Push button 32A, 32B… production movable members 33A, 33B… movable member drive motor 35A… controller sensor unit 35B… push sensor 90… production lighting accessory 122… memory controller 123… production data memory 131… CPU
132… ROM
133… RAM
134 Watchdog timer 135 VDP
136 audio processing circuit 137 ramp control circuit 138 motor control circuit 141 instruction decoder 142 demultiplexer 143 video decoder 144 VRAM
145: display drive circuit 151: audio decoder

Claims (1)

A gaming machine capable of playing games,
Storage means capable of storing data relating to display control;
Display control means capable of controlling the display means by reading the storage data of the storage means,
Signal generation means for generating a time lapse signal when the measurement time has elapsed the monitoring time,
The display control means,
The first control for initializing the measurement time by the signal generating means before the monitoring time elapses, and the storage data of the storage means is read when a predetermined event in which the first control is not executed occurs. Ri executable der and a second control to initialize the time measured by said signal generating means before the monitoring time in during a read period has elapsed,
The storage means includes a normal use area and an alternative use area,
The predetermined event is a process of storing data stored in the normal use area in the alternative use area.
An initialization cycle according to the first control is different from an initialization cycle according to the second control.
A gaming machine characterized by that: