JP6698390B2 - Amusement machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine in which, when a lottery opportunity occurs during a game, the symbols are displayed in a variable manner and then symbols are stopped and displayed in a mode according to the result of the lottery.

  Conventionally, control information (starting mouth 1 signal, starting mouth 2 signal, symbol determination frequency signal, big hit 1 signal, big hit 2 signal, time saving signal, probability fluctuation signal) generated during execution of game control processing is on an information terminal board. A gaming machine that outputs is known (for example, Patent Document 1).

JP, 2008-136792, A

  According to the above-mentioned prior art, the starting port 1 signal and the starting port 2 signal can be transmitted to an external device (data lamp, hall computer, etc.).

However, the technique of Patent Document 1 cannot output a signal according to the gaming state.
That is, depending on the gaming state, there may be a situation in which it is not desired to transmit the starting opening 1 signal or the starting opening 2 signal, but in the technique of Patent Document 1, the starting opening 1 signal and the starting opening 2 signal are uniformly sent to the external device. I will send it to.

  Then, this invention makes it a subject to provide the technique which can transmit the symbol determination frequency information according to a game state.

  The present invention adopts the following means for solving the above problems. Note that the wording in the following parentheses is merely an example, and the present invention is not limited to this.

  Solution means 1: The game machine of this solution means a first game area in which a game ball flows down, a second game area different from the first game area in which a game ball flows down, and the first game area. A game ball flowing down the area is arranged at a position where the ball can enter, a first entrance for generating a first lottery opportunity, and a game ball flowing down the second game area is arranged at a position where the ball can enter. A second entrance for generating a second lottery opportunity different from the first lottery opportunity, a first lottery executing means for executing the first lottery when the first lottery opportunity occurs, and the second lottery opportunity. When it occurs, the second lottery execution means for executing the second lottery and the first lottery are displayed based on the execution of the first lottery, and after the first symbol is variably displayed for a predetermined variation time, the lottery of the first lottery Based on the first symbol display means for stopping and displaying the first symbol in a mode according to the result, and the second symbol is variably displayed based on the second lottery being executed, the second symbol is then displayed. The second symbol display means for stopping and displaying the second symbol in a mode according to the lottery result of the second lottery, the first game state in which the game is advanced using the first game area, and the game ball is When the first lottery trigger occurs based on entering the first ball entrance, the first symbol changes and the first symbol stops, or using the second game area It is the second game state in which the game progresses, and the second lottery trigger occurs based on the fact that the game ball has entered the second ball entrance, and the second symbol changes and the second When the symbol is stopped, the symbol determination frequency information transmission for transmitting the symbol determination frequency information indicating that the first symbol or the second symbol according to the type of the game state predetermined for the external device is stopped And a game machine.

According to the solving means, the game proceeds in the following flow, for example.
(1) A first game area in which game balls flow down is provided. The first game area is, for example, an area (left hitting area) formed in the left half of the game board surface.

(2) A second game area, which is different from the first game area in (1) above and in which game balls flow down, is provided. The second game area is, for example, an area (right hitting area) formed on the right half of the game board surface.

  The game ball hit in the first game area flows down the first game area as it is, and the game ball hit in the second game area flows down the second game area as it is, but an obstacle placed in the game area Depending on the condition of the nails and the like, the game ball that has been driven into the first game area may be bounced off by the obstacle nail and flow down into the second game area.

(3) At the position where the game ball flowing down the first game area of the above (1) can enter, the first entry slot (starting entry slot corresponding to the first special symbol) that generates the first lottery opportunity It is arranged.

(4) At the position where the game balls flowing down the second game area of (2) above can enter, the second entry slot (to the second special symbol) that generates a second lottery opportunity different from the first lottery opportunity. Corresponding starting winning opening) is arranged.

(5) When the first lottery opportunity of (3) above occurs, the first lottery (first special symbol lottery) is executed.
(6) When the second lottery opportunity of the above (4) occurs, the second lottery (second special symbol lottery) is executed.

(7) Based on the execution of the first lottery of (5) above, the first symbol (first special symbol) is variably displayed for a predetermined variation time, and the first symbol is displayed in a mode corresponding to the result of the first lottery One symbol is stopped and displayed.
(8) Based on the execution of the second lottery in (6) above, the second symbol (second special symbol) is variably displayed for a predetermined variation time, and the second symbol is displayed in a mode according to the result of the second lottery. 2 The symbols are stopped and displayed.

(9) [A] Based on (1) the first game state in which the game is advanced using the first game area (left hit state), and the game ball enters the first entrance When the first lottery trigger occurs and the first symbol changes and the first symbol stops, or [B] the second game state in which the game is advanced using the second game area (right hitting state) Yes, and the second lottery trigger occurs based on the game ball entering the second entrance, when the second symbol changes and the second symbol stops, an external device (data lamp, hall) (1) the symbol determination frequency information indicating that the first symbol or the second symbol corresponding to the type of the predetermined game state is stopped is transmitted to a computer or the like). The symbol determination number information is information that the first symbol or the second symbol has been stopped once, but may be information indicating the total number of stops of the first symbol or the second symbol. For example, if the type of gaming state is left-handed state, the symbol determination number information is transmitted when the first symbol is stopped, and if the type of gaming state is right-handed state, the second symbol is stopped. If it is done, the symbol determination frequency information is transmitted.

  Thus, according to the present solving means, the symbol determination frequency information is not always transmitted when the first symbol or the second symbol is stopped, but satisfies the condition [A] or [B] above. Since it is transmitted only in the case of playing, it is possible to transmit the symbol determination frequency information according to the game state.

  Further, according to the present solution means, the first game state (during left hitting), which is the main part of the game due to changes in the game state, is the first symbol, and the second game state (during right hitting) is the second symbol. In the case of specifications to be performed, by transmitting the symbol decision number information according to the change of the game state, that is, by enabling the display output of the symbol decision number for the symbol fluctuation according to the change of the game state , It is possible to suppress the discomfort and distrust felt by the player as much as possible.

  Solving means 2: In any of the solving means described above, the gaming machine of the present solving means sets a negative value to the first flag when the gaming state is the first gaming state, while the gaming state is When the second gaming state, the first flag setting means for setting a positive value in the first flag, and when the first symbol changes, while setting a negative value in the second flag, while the When the second symbol changes, the second flag setting means for setting a positive value to the second flag, and the exclusive OR operation using the first flag and the second flag A game machine characterized by comprising a logical sum operation executing means, wherein the symbol determination frequency information transmitting means transmits the symbol determination frequency information when the result of the exclusive OR operation is a negative result. is there.

The following features are added to the gaming machine of the present solving means.
(1) When the gaming state is the first gaming state, the first flag is set to a negative value (0), while when the gaming state is the second gaming state, the first flag is set to a positive value ( Set 1).

(2) If the first symbol changes, the negative value (0) is set to the second flag, while if the second symbol changes, the positive value (1) is set to the second flag.

(3) An exclusive OR operation is executed using the first flag and the second flag.

(4) If the result of the exclusive OR operation in (3) above is a negative result (0), the symbol determination frequency information is transmitted.

  According to the present solving means, two flags such as the first flag and the second flag are used, and the control load (resource) is suppressed by the exclusive OR operation based on the flag reference to smoothly obtain the symbol determination frequency information. Can be sent.

  Solving means 3: The gaming machine of the present solving means, in any of the solving means described above, a symbol parallel varying means capable of varying the first symbol and the second symbol in parallel, and the first lottery or the Regarding the winning result obtained in the second lottery, a plurality of winning types including at least a special winning type and a special winning type are defined in advance, and the probability of falling under the special winning type in the first lottery , A winning type defining means that defines a high probability of falling into the special winning type in the second lottery, and a winning type defining means when the result of the winning is obtained in the first lottery or the second lottery In the case where the first symbol or the second symbol is stopped and displayed in a mode corresponding to the special winning type, the special type determining unit that determines which of the plurality of winning types defined by When the first symbol or the second symbol is stopped and displayed in a mode corresponding to the special winning type with the special game executing means for executing the special game execution, the special game is executed in a mode different from the special game. Means, the symbol fixed number of times information transmission means, during the fluctuation of one of the symbols of the first symbol or the second symbol depending on the type of the predetermined gaming state, the one symbol and Is a gaming machine characterized in that, when the other different symbol is stopped and displayed, the symbol determination frequency information is not transmitted to the external device.

The following features are added to the gaming machine of the present solving means.
(1) In the case where the display times of the variable time relating to the execution of the first lottery means (first symbol display means) and the second lottery means (second symbol display means) overlap each other, the first symbol and the second symbol Allows to change in parallel (simultaneously). In general, if the first symbol is changing, the change of the second symbol is not started until the change of the first symbol is stopped, but in the present solving means, even if the first symbol is changing, The second symbol is changing (so-called simultaneous turning machine).

(2) Regarding the winning results obtained in the first lottery or the second lottery, a plurality of winning types including at least a special winning type (big win) and a special winning type (small win) are defined in advance. Further, the probability that the special lottery type corresponds to the second lottery is defined to be higher than the probability that the special lottery type corresponds to the first lottery. Therefore, the second lottery is more likely to fall into the special winning type than the first lottery.

(3) When the result of the winning is obtained in the first lottery or the second lottery, it is determined which of the plurality of winning types defined in (2) above is applicable.

(4) When the symbols are stopped and displayed in a mode corresponding to the special winning type, the special game is executed. The special game is a big hit game.
(5) When the symbols are stopped and displayed in a mode corresponding to the special winning type, the special game is executed in a mode different from the special game. The special game is a game that is less profitable than the special game, and is, for example, a short-term open big hit game or a small hit game.

(6) Then, during the change of one of the first symbol or the second symbol depending on the type of the predetermined gaming state, when the other symbol different from the one symbol is stopped and displayed, Do not send the symbol determination frequency information to the external device. For example, if the type of game state is left-handed state, when the first symbol is stopped, the symbol determination frequency information is transmitted, but when the second symbol is stopped, the symbol determination frequency information is not transmitted. .. Further, when the type of gaming state is a right-handed state, the symbol determination frequency information is transmitted when the second symbol is stopped, but the symbol determination frequency information is not transmitted when the first symbol is stopped. .. As a result, it is possible to transmit the symbol determination frequency information according to the type of game state.

  Here, the simultaneous turning machine, in addition to the change in one of the symbols on the appearance, the other symbol may also change and stop on the back, so there is a gap between the appearance symbol stop and the number of times the symbol determination frequency information is output. May occur.

  That is, when outputting the symbol determination frequency information (rotation speed) in the simultaneous turning machine, the number of games is updated (count up display) when the other symbol stops while the one symbol is changing. In this case, the value of the number of games increases while the symbols are changing, which may give the player a feeling of discomfort or distrust.

  In this respect, even in the present solving means, a game property (simultaneous turning machine) capable of changing the first symbol and the second symbol in parallel is adopted, but the type of the symbol to be stopped is determined in the game state. Since the symbol determination frequency information is transmitted, it is possible to reduce the feeling of discomfort or distrust of the player.

  Further, in the present solving means, since the probability of being in the special lottery type in the second lottery is defined to be higher than the probability of being in the special lottery type in the first lottery, the special game in the second lottery It is possible to realize the game property of increasing the number of balls to be launched.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to transmit the symbol determination frequency information according to the game state.

It is a front view of a pachinko machine. It is a rear view of a pachinko machine. It is a front view showing the game board unit alone. It is a front view which expands and shows a part of game board unit. It is a block diagram which shows various electronic devices with which a pachinko machine was equipped. It is a flowchart (1/2) which shows the example of a procedure of a reset start process. It is a flowchart (2/2) which shows the example of a procedure of a reset start process. It is a flow chart which shows an example of a procedure of power failure occurrence check processing concretely. It is a flow chart which shows the example of a procedure of interruption management processing. It is a flow chart which shows the example of a procedure of switch input event processing. It is the flowchart which shows the procedure example of the 1st special design memory renewal processing. It is the flowchart which shows the procedure example of 2nd special design memory renewal processing. It is a flow chart which shows the example of a procedure of production judgment processing at the time of acquisition. It is the flowchart which shows the procedure example of the 1st special design game processing. It is the flowchart which shows the procedure example of 2nd special design game processing. It is a figure which shows the opening operation pattern of a variable winning device. It is the flowchart which shows the procedure example of the special design fluctuation pretreatment. It is a figure which shows an example of the variation pattern selection table at the time of leaving (low-probability non-time shortening state). It is a figure which shows an example of the variation pattern selection table at the time of leaving (low probability time shortened state). It is a figure which shows an example of the variation pattern selection table at the time of leaving (high-probability non-time shortening state). It is a diagram showing a configuration example of a stop symbol selection table during the first special symbol big hit. It is a diagram showing a configuration example of a stop symbol selection table during the second special symbol big hit. It is a figure showing an example of a big hit time variation pattern selection table (low probability non-time shortened state). It is a figure which shows an example of a big hit time variation pattern selection table (low probability time shortened state). It is a figure which shows an example of a big hit time variation pattern selection table (high probability non-time shortened state). It is a figure which shows the correspondence table of an internal lottery. It is a flow chart which shows the example of a procedure of special symbol storage area shift processing. It is a flow chart which shows the example of a procedure of processing during special symbol change. It is a timing chart showing a change in variable display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol. It is a flow chart which shows the example of a procedure of processing during special symbol stop display. It is a flow chart which shows the example of a procedure of symbol fixed frequency information management processing. It is a figure which shows the relationship between a flag content and exclusive OR. It is a flow chart which shows the example of composition of display output management processing. It is a flow chart which shows the example of composition of the variable winning a prize device management processing at the time of a big hit. It is a flow chart which shows the example of a procedure of big winning opening opening pattern setting processing at the time of a big hit. It is a flow chart which shows the example of a procedure of big winning opening opening and closing operation processing at the time of a big hit. It is a flow chart which shows the example of a procedure of big winning opening closing processing at the time of a big hit. It is a flow chart which shows the example of a procedure of end processing at the time of a big hit. It is a flow chart which shows the example of composition of the variable winning a prize device management processing at the time of a small hit. It is a flow chart which shows the example of a procedure of large winning a prize mouth opening pattern setting processing at the time of a small hit. It is a flow chart which shows the example of a procedure of big winning opening opening and closing operation processing at the time of a small hit. It is a flow chart which shows the example of a procedure of big winning opening closing processing at the time of a small hit. It is a flow chart which shows the example of a procedure of end processing at the time of a small hit. It is a flow chart which shows the example of a procedure of external information processing. It is the timing chart which shows the opening pattern of the big winning a prize classified by winning design and time change of production contents. It is a figure explaining the game flow developed when it corresponds to "9 round design 1" or "9 round design 2" in a normal mode. It is a figure explaining the game flow developed when it corresponds to "16 round design" or "9 round design 2" in fireworks rush. It is a continuous view showing an example of the effect in the normal mode (1/3). It is a continuous view showing an example of the effect in the normal mode (2/3). It is a continuous view showing an example of the effect in the normal mode (3/3). It is a continuous view showing an example of the effect in the firework rush (1/3). It is a continuous view showing an example of production in a firework rush (2/3). It is a continuous view showing an example of an effect in a firework rush (3/3). It is the flowchart which shows the procedure example of production control processing. It is the flowchart which shows the procedure example of production design management processing. It is a timing chart showing the transmission timing of the symbol determination frequency information 1. It is a timing chart showing the transmission timing of the symbol determination frequency information 2.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine (hereinafter abbreviated as “pachinko machine”) 1. FIG. 2 is a rear view of the pachinko machine 1. The pachinko machine 1 uses a game ball as a game medium, and the player borrows the game ball from the game hall operator to perform a game with the pachinko machine 1. In the game on the pachinko machine 1, each game ball is a medium in which each one has a game value, and the privilege (profit) that the player enjoys as a result of the game is, for example, the game ball acquired by the player. It can be converted into a game value based on the number of. Hereinafter, the overall configuration of the pachinko machine 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2.

〔overall structure〕
The pachinko machine 1 mainly includes an outer frame unit 2, an integrated door unit 4, and an inner frame assembly 7 (plastic frame, gaming machine frame) as its main body. When viewed from the front facing the player, the integrated door unit 4 is located on the frontmost side. The inner frame assembly 7 is located on the back side (back side) of the integrated door unit 4, and the outer frame unit 2 is arranged so as to surround the outer side of the inner frame assembly 7.

  The outer frame unit 2 is a structure in which wood and metal materials are combined in a vertically long rectangular shape, and the outer frame unit 2 has fasteners such as screws for island equipment (not shown) in the game arcade. It is fixed by using. In the vertically long outer frame unit 2, wood is used for the parts corresponding to the upper and lower short sides, and a metal material is used for the parts corresponding to the left and right long sides.

  The integrated door unit 4 has a structure in which the tray unit 6 is integrated at its lower position. The integrated door unit 4 and the inner frame assembly 7 are attached to the island facility via the outer frame unit 2, and they operate in an openable and closable manner via a hinge mechanism (not shown). The opening/closing axis of the hinge mechanism (not shown) extends in the vertical direction along the left end of the pachinko machine 1 when viewed from the front.

  A unified lock unit 9 is provided inside the right edge portion (left edge portion in FIG. 2) of the inner frame assembly 7 when viewed from the front in FIG. Correspondingly, locking tools (not shown) are also provided on the right edge portions (back side) of the integrated door unit 4 and the outer frame unit 2, respectively. As shown in FIG. 1, in a state where the integrated door unit 4 and the inner frame assembly 7 are closed with respect to the outer frame unit 2, the unified lock unit 9 on the back side of the integrated door unit 4 and the inner frame assembly 7 together with the locking tool. The opening of 7 is disabled.

  A cylinder lock 6a with a key hole is provided on the right side edge of the tray unit 6. For example, when the manager of the game arcade inserts a dedicated key into the key hole and twists the cylinder lock 6a in the clockwise direction, the unified lock unit 9 operates and the inner door assembly 4 and the integrated door unit 4 can be opened. .. When all of these are opened from the outer frame unit 2 to the front side (moved like a door), the back side of the pachinko machine 1 is exposed on the front side.

  On the other hand, when the cylinder lock 6a is twisted counterclockwise, only the locking of the integrated door unit 4 is released while the inner frame assembly 7 remains locked, and the integrated door unit 4 can be opened. When the integrated door unit 4 is opened to the front side, the game board unit 8 is directly exposed, and in this state, the manager of the game hall can remove obstacles such as ball clogging in the board surface. When the integrated door unit 4 is opened, the tray unit 6 is also opened to the front side.

  Further, the pachinko machine 1 includes the above-mentioned game board unit 8 as a game unit. The game board unit 8 is supported by the inner frame assembly 7 behind (inside) the integrated door unit 4. The game board unit 8 is attachable to and detachable from the inner frame assembly 7 in a state where the integrated door unit 4 is opened to the front side, for example. The integrated door unit 4 has a vertically elongated circular window 4a formed in the center thereof, and a glass unit (no reference numeral) is attached in the window 4a. The glass unit is, for example, a combination of two transparent plates (glass plates) cut according to the shape of the window 4a. The glass unit is attached to the back side of the integrated door unit 4 via an attachment tool (not shown). A game area 8a (board surface, game board) is formed on the front surface of the game board unit 8, and this game area 8a is visible to the player from the front side through the window 4a. When the integrated door unit 4 is closed, a space where the game ball can flow down is formed between the inner surface of the glass unit and the board surface.

  The tray unit 6 has a shape that protrudes from the integrated door unit 4 to the front side as a whole, and an upper tray 6b is formed on the upper surface thereof. In this upper plate 6b, game balls (rental balls) lent to the player and game balls (prize balls) obtained by winning can be stored. Further, in the tray unit 6, a lower tray 6c is formed at a lower position of the upper tray 6b. In the lower plate 6c, the game balls further paid out in a state where the upper plate 6b is full are stored. Note that the pachinko machine 1 of the present embodiment is a so-called CR machine (a model that is connected to a CR unit), and the game balls rented by the player are separated from the prize balls from the payout device unit 172 on the back side to the saucer unit 6 (upper). It is dispensed to the plate 6b or the lower plate 6c).

  A lending operation unit 14 is provided on the upper surface of the tray unit 6, and a ball lending button 10 and a return button 12 are arranged on the lending operation unit 14. When a player operates the ball lending button 10 with a valuable medium (for example, a magnetic recording medium, a storage IC built-in medium, etc.) inserted in a CR unit (not shown), the number corresponding to a predetermined frequency unit (for example, 5 degrees) (For example, 125) game balls are rented out. Therefore, a frequency display section (not shown) is arranged on the upper surface of the lending operation section 14, and the frequency display section displays the remaining frequency of the valuable medium loaded in the CR unit. The player can operate the return button 12 to return the valuable medium with the remaining frequency. Although a CR machine is taken as an example in the present embodiment, the pachinko machine 1 may be a cash machine (a model that is not connected to the CR unit) different from the CR machine.

  Further, on the upper surface of the tray unit 6, an upper plate ball removing button 6d is installed in front of the upper plate 6b in the upper position, and a lower plate ball removing lever 6e is provided in the center of the lower plate 6c. Is installed. The player can cause the game balls stored in the upper plate 6b to flow down to the lower plate 6c by pushing the upper plate ball removal button 6d, for example. In addition, the player can drop the game balls stored in the lower plate 6c by dropping the lower plate ball removing lever 6e, for example, to the left to discharge the game balls. The discharged game balls are received in, for example, a ball receiving box (not shown).

  A handle unit 16 is installed in the lower right part of the tray unit 6. The player can operate the handle unit 16 to operate the launch control board set 174 to launch (drive) a game ball toward the game area 8a (ball launch device). The launched game ball rises from the lower edge of the game board unit 8 along the left edge, is guided by an outer band (not shown), and is thrown into the game area 8a. A large number of obstacle nails and windmills (without reference numerals in the figure) are arranged in the game area 8a, and the thrown game balls flow down in the game area 8a while being guided and guided by the obstacle nails and windmills. The structure of the game area 8a (board surface, game board) will be described later with reference to another drawing.

[Structure of front of frame]
In the integrated door unit 4, a left top lens unit 47 and an upper right lighting unit 49 are installed as components for performance. Among them, the left top lens unit 47 has a glass frame top lamp 46 and a left glass frame decoration lamp 48 incorporated therein, and the right top illumination unit 49 has a right glass frame decoration lamp 50 incorporated therein. In addition, the integrated door unit 4 is provided with left and right glass frame decoration lamps 52 so as to be continuous below the left top lens unit 47 and the upper right electric decoration unit 49, respectively. It extends so as to wrap around from the left and right edges of the integrated door unit 4 to the front surface of the tray unit 6. In the integrated door unit 4, the glass frame top lamp 46, the left and right glass frame decoration lamps 48, 50, 52, etc. are arranged so as to surround the glass unit.

  The various lamps 46, 48, 50, and 52 described above perform effects by, for example, light emission (lighting or blinking, change in luminance gradation, change in color tone, etc.) of the built-in LED. Further, in the upper part of the integrated door unit 4, the left top lens unit 47 and the upper right electric decoration unit 49 have glass frame speakers 54 and 55 incorporated therein, respectively. On the other hand, an outer frame speaker 56 is incorporated in the lower left position of the outer frame unit 2. These speakers 54, 55, 56 output sound effects, BGM, voice, etc. (general sound) to execute the effect.

  Further, in the center of the saucer unit 6, an effect switching button 45 is installed in front of the upper tray 6b. The player switches the effect contents (for example, the background screen displayed on the liquid crystal display 42) by pushing down the effect switching button 45, and for example, during the fluctuation of the symbol, the confirmation display of the big hit, or the big hit game. It is possible to generate some kind of effect (notice effect, probabilistic change promotion effect, promotion effect during major role, etc.).

  Further, around the effect switching button 45, a jog dial 45a is installed so as to surround the effect switching button 45 (operation input receiving means, rotary selector). By rotating the jog dial 45a, the player can change the effect contents displayed on the liquid crystal display 42, for example.

[Backside configuration]
As shown in FIG. 2, on the back side of the pachinko machine 1, the power supply control unit 162, the main control board unit 170, the payout device unit 172, the flow path unit 173, the firing control board set 174, and the payout control board unit 176. , A back cover unit 178 and the like are installed. In addition to this, on the back side of the pachinko machine 1, various electronic devices (including a control computer (not shown)) that make up the power supply system and control system of the pachinko machine 1, an external terminal board 160, a power cord (power plug) 164, A ground wire (ground terminal) 166, connection wiring (not shown), etc. are installed.

  The above-mentioned payout device unit 172 has, for example, a prize ball tank 172a and a prize ball case (no reference numeral), of which the prize ball tank 172a is installed at the upper edge (back side) of the inner frame assembly 7. In this state, it is possible to store the game balls supplied from the supply route (not shown). The game balls stored in the prize ball tank 172a are guided to the prize ball case through an upper prize ball gutter (not shown). The flow path unit 173 guides the game balls sent from the payout device unit 172 toward the tray unit 6 on the front surface side.

  Further, the external terminal board 160 is for connecting the pachinko machine 1 to an external electronic device (for example, a data display device, a hall computer, etc.), and from this external terminal board 160, the game of the pachinko machine 1 is played. Various external information signals (for example, prize ball information, door opening information, symbol confirmation number information, big hit information, starting opening information, etc.) indicating the progress status and maintenance status, etc. are output to the external electronic device. ing.

  The power cord 164 secures a power source (electric power) necessary for the operation of the pachinko machine 1 by being connected to, for example, a power source device (for example, AC24V) installed in an island facility of a game arcade. The ground wire 166 is also connected to a ground terminal similarly installed in the island facility to secure the ground (ground) of the pachinko machine 1.

  FIG. 3 is a front view showing the game board unit 8 alone. The game board unit 8 includes a base game board 8b, and a game area 8a is formed on the front side of the game board 8b. The game board 8b is made of, for example, a transparent resin plate, and in the state where the game board unit 8 is fixed to the inner frame assembly 7, the front surface of the game board 8b is parallel to the glass unit. On the front surface of the game board 8b, the above-mentioned game area 8a is formed inside a firing rail (no reference numeral) installed in a substantially circular shape.

  A relatively large effect unit 40 is arranged in the center of the game area 8a, and the game area 8a is largely divided into a left part, a right part and a lower part with the effect unit 40 as the center. The left side portion of the game area 8a is the first game area (left hit area) used in a normal game state (for example, low probability non-time shortened state, low probability time shortened state, high probability time shortened state, left hit state, etc.). ), the right side portion of the game area 8a is the second game area (right hitting) used in an advantageous game state (for example, a big hit gaming state, a small hit gaming state, a high probability non-time shortening state, a right hitting state, etc.). Area). In the game area 8a, the upper start winning opening 26 (first winning opening), the right starting winning opening 27 (second winning entrance), the starting gate 20, the normal winning opening 22, around the effect unit 40. The variable start winning device 28 (first winning opening), the first variable winning device 30, the second variable winning device 31, etc. are distributed and installed.

  Of these, the upper start winning opening 26 and the variable starting winning device 28 are arranged in the center of the lower portion of the game area 8a. The right starting winning opening 27, the first variable winning device 30 and the second variable winning device 31 are arranged in this order from the top on the right side of the game area 8a. Here, the first variable winning device 30 is arranged at the lower left of the upper start winning port 26, and the second variable winning device 31 is arranged below the first variable winning device 30. Further, the starting gate 20 and the three normal winning openings 22 are arranged on the left side of the game area 8a, and the rightmost winning opening 22 is arranged on the left side of the starting gate 20.

  The game ball thrown into the game area 8a enters the upper start winning opening 26, the right starting winning opening 27, the normal winning opening 22, passes through the starting gate 20, and is opened during the process of flowing down. The player may enter the variable start winning device 28, the first variable winning device 30 during the opening operation, or the second variable winning device 31 during the opening operation. Here, there is a possibility that the game ball flowing down the left side area of the game area 8a mainly enters the upper starting winning opening 26, passes through the starting gate 20, or enters the normal winning opening 22. .. On the other hand, the game balls flowing down the right side area of the game area 8a mainly enter the right start winning opening 27, enter the first variable winning device 30 during the opening operation, or enter the second opening during the opening operation. There is a possibility of entering the variable winning device 31. Although the game ball that has passed through the starting gate 20 continues to flow down in the game area 8a, the upper starting winning opening 26, the right starting winning opening 27, the normal winning opening 22, the variable starting winning device 28, the first variable winning device 30, The game balls that have entered the second variable winning device 31 are collected to the back side of the game board unit 8 through through holes formed in the game board (plywood material forming the game board unit 8, transparent plate, etc.).

  Here, in the present embodiment, due to the configuration of the game area 8a (board surface), in the case of entering a game ball into the upper start winning opening 26, the variable starting winning device 28, and the normal winning opening 22, the left side in the game area 8a It is necessary to hit the game ball in a partial area (left hitting area) (execute so-called "left hitting").

On the other hand, when a game ball is to be entered into the right start winning opening 27, the first variable winning device 30, or the second variable winning device 31, the game ball is hit into the right side area (right hitting area) in the game area 8a. It is necessary to execute (so-called "right-handed").
Then, by arranging the inside of the game area 8a in this way, the game ball hit in the area on the left side of the game area 8a enters the upper start winning opening 26 and the variable start winning device 28. There is a possibility that a game ball hit in the right side area of the game area 8a will enter the right starting winning opening 27. Therefore, when the game ball is driven into both the left side portion and the right side portion in the game area 8a as a special mode, in the case where the display time of the variable time of the first special symbol and the second special symbol overlap each other. , The first special symbol and the second special symbol can be changed in parallel (simultaneously). In addition, when the game ball is driven into only the left side portion in the game area 8a, basically the second special symbol does not change, but the first special symbol mainly changes. On the contrary, when the game ball is driven only into the right side portion in the game area 8a, the first special symbol does not change, and the second special symbol mainly changes.

  In the present embodiment, the variable start winning device 28 operates when a predetermined operating condition is satisfied (when a normal symbol is stopped and displayed for a predetermined stop display time in a winning manner), and accordingly Allows the player to enter the lower start winning port 28a (normal electric accessory). The variable start winning device 28 has, for example, a pair of left and right blade members 28b, and these blade members 28b reciprocate in the left-right direction along the board surface by the action of a link mechanism using a solenoid (not shown), for example. .. That is, as shown in the drawing, the left and right blade members 28b are in the closed position with their tips facing upward, and at this time, there is not much ball entry into the lower start winning port 28a. On the other hand, when the variable start winning device 28 is activated, the left and right blade members 28b are respectively displaced (opened) from the closed position to the open position, and the opening width of the variable starting winning device 28 is expanded left and right. During this period, the game balls can easily flow into the lower start winning port 28a. The variable start prize device 28 receives the game ball flowing down from above by moving the tongue type opening/closing member from the position retracted from the board surface to the position protruding toward the front side, and the start start prize is received. It may be a device that opens the lower start winning opening 28a by guiding the opening 28a or by displacing the lower end edge portion of the opening/closing member as a hinge so as to fall forward.

  The above-mentioned first variable winning device 30 is a predetermined first condition (for example, from the first round to the sixth round) when the prescribed condition is satisfied (when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in a mode other than non-winning). It is activated when the eyes or the condition of being from the 10th round to the 16th round) is satisfied, and allows the player to enter the first special winning opening 30a (special electric accessory, first special entering ball). Event generation means).

  The first variable winning device 30 is a device arranged on the right side of the upper starting winning opening 26 (so-called upper attacker), and has, for example, one opening/closing member 30b. The opening/closing member 30b reciprocates in the front-back direction with respect to the board surface to open/close by the action of a link mechanism using a solenoid (not shown), for example. As shown in the figure, the opening/closing member 30b is in the closed position (closed state) along the board surface, and at this time, it is difficult to enter the first big winning opening 30a. When the first variable winning device 30 operates, the opening/closing member 30b is displaced so as to fall forward with the lower end edge portion thereof serving as a hinge, and the first big winning opening 30a is opened (open state). During this time, the first variable winning device 30 is in a state where it is not difficult (easy or possible) for the game balls to flow in, and an event of winning the first special winning opening 30a can be generated. At this time, the opening/closing member 30b also functions as a member for guiding the inflow of the game balls into the first special winning opening 30a.

  The second variable winning device 31 is a case where the prescribed condition is satisfied similarly to the first variable winning device 30 (when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the form of a big hit), and a predetermined second condition (for example, , The 7th round to the 9th round) are satisfied, and it is possible to enter the second special winning opening 31a (specific winning opening) (special electric accessory, second Special entrance event generation means).

  The second variable winning device 31 is a device arranged below the first variable winning device 30 (so-called lower attacker), and has, for example, one blade member 31b. The blade member 31b is rotated by reciprocating a predetermined angle in the left-right direction along the board surface by the action of a link mechanism using a solenoid (not shown). As shown in the figure, the blade member 31b is in a state in which the second big winning opening 31a is closed in a state in which the blade member 31b is tilted substantially horizontally, and in this state, it is difficult for the game ball to flow into the second variable winning device 31. When the second variable winning device 31 operates, the blade member 31b is displaced so as to stand upright in the left and right directions within the game area 8a around the base end thereof, and the second special winning opening 31a is opened (open state). .. During this time, the second variable winning device 31 is in a state where it is not difficult (easy or possible) for the game balls to flow in, and an event of entering the second special winning opening 31a can be generated.

  In addition, inside the second variable winning a prize device 31, a guide passage 31c for guiding the game ball that has entered the second variable winning a prize device 31 is arranged.

  A second count switch 85 is disposed in the guide passage 31c, and a vane member 31d for the probability variation region and a hole 31e for the probability variation region are disposed on the lower side downstream of the guide passage 31c. A discharge port 31f is arranged on the downstream upper side of 31c.

  The game ball that entered the second variable winning device 31 is detected by the second count switch 85 first. Here, when the probability variation region solenoid that operates the probability variation region blade member 31d is ON, the probability variation region blade member 31d rises to guide the game ball to the probability variation region hole 31e. On the other hand, when the probability variation region solenoid that operates the probability variation region blade member 31d is OFF, the probability variation region blade member 31d does not rise, so the game ball passes through the upper portion of the probability variation region blade member 31d, It is guided to the outlet 31f.

[Probability variation area (specific area)]
Further, a probability variation region (no reference numeral) is provided inside the probability variation region hole 31e. The probability variation region is a region in which the game ball cannot pass when the second variable winning device 31 is in the closed state, and the second variation winning device 31 is in the open state, and the probability variation region blade member 31d is activated. If it is, it is an area through which the game ball can pass.

  The probability variation region vane member 31d operates when the second variable winning device 31 is opened during the big hit game. The operation pattern of the probability variation region vane member 31d is such that the production region is opened for a short period (for example, 0.1 seconds) at the same time as the start of the round, and then closed for a few seconds (about 2 to 3 seconds), and then the probability variation region for a long period of time. It is a pattern in which a long opening is performed (for example, about 20 seconds). In the short-term opening executed at the same time as the start of the round, the game ball does not reach the probability variation region vane member 31d, so that this operation does not lead the game ball to the probability variation region. Even if the probability variation area blade member 31d operates, it is difficult for the game ball to pass through the probability variation area when the second variable winning device 31 opens in a short circuit.

  The above-mentioned effect unit 40 is installed in the center position of the game board unit 8. The effect unit 40 has its upper edge 40a functioning as a guide member for changing the flow direction of the game ball, and is provided with various decorative parts 40b, 40c and the like (including not shown) inside thereof. The decorative parts 40b and 40c can enhance the decorativeness of the game board unit 8 by their three-dimensional modeling, and can perform a dramatic operation by emitting transmitted light by, for example, a built-in light emitting device (LED or the like). . Further, a liquid crystal display 42 (image display) is installed inside the effect unit 40, and various effect images including effect symbols corresponding to special symbols are displayed on the liquid crystal indicator 42. . In this way, the game board unit 8 impresses the player with the characteristics of the pachinko machine 1 based on the configuration of the board surface and the decorativeness of the effect unit 40. In addition, when the game board 8b is a transparent resin plate (for example, an acrylic board) as in the present embodiment, various decorative bodies (including a movable body and a light emitting body) arranged not only on the front side but also behind the game board 8b. ) Can add a decorative property. The effect unit 40 may be configured such that the central liquid crystal display 42 is, for example, a main liquid crystal display, and small sub liquid crystal displays are arranged on both sides of the main liquid crystal display.

  In addition, inside the effect unit 40, a drive source (for example, a motor, a solenoid, etc.) is attached together with the effect movable body 40f. The movable body 40f for effect can perform, in addition to the effect using the image on the liquid crystal display 42 and the effect by the light emitter, an effect involving the operation of a tangible object. The effect using the movable body 40f can exert an appealing power different from the effect using the two-dimensional image.

  A ball guide passage 40d is formed at the left edge of the effect unit 40, and a rolling stage 40e is formed at the lower edge thereof. The ball guide passage 40d opens diagonally upward to the left in the game area 8a, and when a game ball flowing down in the game area 8a flows into the ball guide passage 40d at random, the ball guide passage 40d rolls through it. It is discharged onto the stage 40e. The upper surface of the rolling stage 40e has a smooth curved surface, and here the game ball can roll in the left-right direction. The game ball rolling on the rolling stage 40e eventually flows down into the lower game area 8a. A ball discharge path 40k is formed at a central position of the rolling stage 40e, and the game ball guided from the rolling stage 40e to the ball discharge path 40k easily flows into the upper start winning opening 26 located therebelow. ..

  In addition, an out port 32 is formed in the game area 8a, and the game balls that have not entered (winned) the various winning ports are finally collected to the back side of the game board unit 8 through the out port 32. Also, the game area including the normal winning opening 22, the upper starting winning opening 26, the right starting winning opening 27, the lower starting winning opening 28a, the first variable winning device 30, and the game ball entered in the second variable winning device 31. All the game balls hit in 8a are collected on the back side of the game board unit 8. The collected game balls are discharged to the outside of the frame from the back side of the pachinko machine 1 through an out passage assembly (not shown), and join the supply route of the island facility (not shown).

  FIG. 4 is an enlarged front view showing a part of the game board unit 8 (lower left position in the window 4a). That is, in the game board unit 8, for example, a normal symbol display device 33 and a normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a are provided at the lower left position in the window 4a, a first special symbol display device 34, a second special symbol display device 35. And a game state display device 38 is provided.

  Of these, the normal symbol display device 33, for example, alternately lights two lamps (LEDs) to variably display the normal symbol, and stops and displays the normal symbol by turning on or off the lamp. The normal symbol working memory lamp 33a displays a memory number of 0 to 4 by a combination of, for example, turning off or lighting two lamps (LEDs) and blinking. For example, in the display mode in which both the two lamps are turned off, the number of storages is 0, in the display mode in which one lamp is turned on, the storage number is 1 and in the display mode in which the same one lamp is blinked. Two memory numbers are displayed, three memory numbers are displayed in the display mode in which one lamp is blinked and another lamp is turned on, and four memory numbers are displayed in the display mode in which two lamps are both blinked. For example, displaying individual pieces. Although two lamps (LED) are used here, four lamps (LED) may be used to configure the normal symbol working memory lamp 33a. In this case, the working memory number can be displayed by the number of lamps that are turned on.

  The normal symbol working memory lamp 33a is changed to a display mode after being increased by one in order to remember that each time the game ball passes through the above-mentioned starting gate 20, each time the game ball passes, which triggers the working lottery. Then (up to a maximum of four), the display mode after the reduction is reduced by one each time the variation of the normal symbol is started with the passage as a trigger. In the present embodiment, when the normal symbol working memory lamp 33a is not lit (the number of memory is 0), the normal sphere can already start changing (at the time of stop display), the game ball passes through the starting gate 20. However, the display mode does not change. That is, the number of memories (maximum 4) represented by the display mode of the normal symbol working memory lamp 33a represents the number of passages at which the fluctuation of the normal symbol is not yet started.

  In addition, the first special symbol display device 34 and the second special symbol display device 35, for example, each 7 segment LED (with a dot), the corresponding 1st special symbol or 2nd special symbol fluctuation state and stop state are indicated Can be done (first symbol display means, second symbol display means). The first special symbol display device 34 and the second special symbol display device 35 may have a form in which a plurality of dot LEDs are geometrically (for example, circular) arranged.

  Further, the first special symbol working memory lamp 34a and the second special symbol working memory lamp 35a are, for example, 0 to 4 pieces each according to a display mode configured by a combination of two lamps (LEDs) being turned off or turned on and blinking. The memory number of is displayed (memory number display means). For example, in the display mode in which both the two lamps are turned off, the number of memories 0 is displayed, in the display mode in which one lamp is lit, the number of memories 1 is displayed, and in the display mode in which the same one lamp is blinked. Two memory numbers are displayed, three memory numbers are displayed in the display mode in which one lamp is blinked and another lamp is turned on, and four memory numbers are displayed in the display mode in which two lamps are both blinked. For example, displaying individual pieces.

  The first special symbol working memory lamp 34a, the upper start winning port 26 or the variable starting winning device 28 (when the game ball enters the upper starting winning port 26 or the variable starting winning device 28 (lower starting winning port 28a). In order to memorize that a game ball has entered the lower start winning hole 28a), the display mode will be increased one by one (up to four), and the special symbol will change when the player enters the game. Every time when is started, the display mode is changed to one after the decrease. Further, the second special symbol working memory lamp 35a is increased by one in order to remember that each time the game ball enters the right starting winning opening 27, the fact that the game ball enters the right starting winning opening 27 is remembered. The display mode changes to (up to 4), and each time the variation of the special symbol is triggered by the entry, the display mode changes to one after the decrease. In the present embodiment, when the first special symbol working memory lamp 34a is not lit (the number of memories is 0), the first special symbol can already start changing (at the time of stop display) the upper starting winning opening 26. Alternatively, the display mode does not change even if the game ball enters the variable start prize device 28 (lower start prize hole 28a). Further, if the second special symbol working memory lamp 35a is not lit (memory number is 0), the game ball enters the right starting winning opening 27 in a state where the second special symbol can already start changing (at the time of stop display). Even if it is a sphere, the display mode does not change. That is, the number of memories (maximum 4) represented by the display mode of each special symbol working memory lamp 34a, 35a is the number of entered balls at which the fluctuation of the first special symbol or the second special symbol has not started yet. It represents the number of times.

  Further, the game state display device 38 includes LEDs corresponding to, for example, big hit type display lamps 38a and 38b, a probability variation state display lamp 38d, a time saving state display lamp 38e, and a firing position designation lamp 38f. In the present embodiment, the above-mentioned normal symbol display device 33, normal symbol working memory lamp 33a, first special symbol display device 34, second special symbol display device 35, first special symbol working memory lamp 34a, second special symbol The symbol working memory lamp 35a and the game state display device 38 are mounted on the game board unit 8 in a state of being mounted on one integrated display board 89.

[Control configuration]
Next, a configuration related to control of the pachinko machine 1 will be described. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing various electronic devices mounted on the pachinko machine 1. The pachinko machine 1 is provided with a main control device 70 (main control computer) which is the center of the control operation, and the main control device 70 mainly has a function of controlling the progress of the game in the pachinko machine 1. There is. The main controller 70 is built in the main control board unit 170.

  Further, the main control device 70 is equipped with a circuit board (main control board) on which a main control CPU 72, which is a central processing unit, is mounted. The main control CPU 72, together with a CPU core and registers (not shown), a ROM 74, a RAM ( RWM) 76 and other semiconductor memories are integrated as an LSI. Further, the main controller 70 is equipped with a random number generator 75 and a sampling circuit 77. Among them, the random number generator 75 is for generating a hardware random number (for example, 0 to 65535 in decimal notation) for the big hit determination of the special symbol lottery and the hit determination of the ordinary symbol lottery, and the random number generated here. Is input to the main control CPU 72 through the sampling circuit 77. In addition, the main controller 70 is equipped with peripheral ICs such as an input/output (I/O) port 79, a clock generation circuit (not shown), a counter/timer circuit (CTC), etc. It is mounted on the board. A signal transmission path, a power supply path, a control bus, etc. are formed as a wiring pattern on the circuit board (or the inner layer portion).

  The starting gate 20 described above is integrally provided with a gate switch 78 for detecting passage of a game ball. In addition, the game board unit 8 corresponds to the upper start winning a prize opening 26, the variable starting winning a prize device 28 (lower starting winning a prize opening 28a), the right starting winning a prize mouth 27, the first variable winning a prize device 30 and the second variable award winning device 31, respectively. Then, an upper starting winning opening switch 80, a lower starting winning opening switch 82, a right starting winning opening switch 83, a first count switch 84 and a second count switch 85 are provided. Each of the starting winning opening switches 80, 82, 83 is for detecting the entry of a game ball into the upper starting winning opening 26, the variable starting winning device 28 (lower starting winning opening 28a), and the right starting winning opening 27. is there. The first count switch 84 is for detecting the number of game balls entering the first variable winning device 30 (first big winning opening) and counting the number. Further, the second count switch 85 is for detecting the number of game balls entering the second variable winning device 31 (the second special winning opening 31a) and counting the number. Further, the probability variation area switch 95 is a switch for detecting that the game ball has passed through the probability variation area arranged inside the second variable winning device 31 (detection means).

  Similarly, the game board unit 8 is equipped with a winning opening switch 86 for detecting the entry of a game ball into the normal winning opening 22. It should be noted that, regarding the three normal winning openings 22, a configuration using a common winning opening switch 86 is taken as an example, but, for example, three winning opening switches are installed and a game ball enters each of the normal winning openings 22. May be detected individually.

  In any case, the winning detection signals of these switches 78, 80, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 95 are input to the main control CPU 72 via an input/output driver (not shown). In the present embodiment, the detection signals from the upper start winning opening switch 80, the lower starting winning opening switch 82, and the right starting winning opening switch 83 have the most direct effect on the profit of the player due to the configuration of the game board unit 8. Since it is a signal to exert, it is transmitted to the main control device 70 without passing through a relay, and other detection signals are transmitted to the main control device 70 via the panel relay terminal board 87. The panel relay terminal board 87 is provided with wiring patterns, connection terminals, etc. for relaying the respective winning detection signals.

  The above-mentioned normal symbol display device 33 and normal symbol working memory lamp 33a, first special symbol display device 34, second special symbol display device 35, first special symbol working memory lamp 34a, second special symbol working memory lamp 35a and game The display operation of the state display device 38 is controlled based on a control signal from the main control CPU 72. The main control CPU 72 outputs control signals to the display devices 33, 34, 35, 38 and the lamps 33a, 34a, 35a according to the progress of the game, and controls the lighting state of each LED. Further, the display devices 33, 34, 35, 38 and the lamps 33a, 34a, 35a are installed in the game board unit 8 in a state of being mounted on one integrated display board 89 as described above, A control signal is transmitted from the main control CPU 72 to the display board 89 by relaying the panel relay terminal board 87.

  In addition, in the game board unit 8, the variable starting winning device 28, the first variable winning device 30, the second variable winning device 31, and the normal electric auditors solenoid 88, the first big winning opening corresponding to the upstream of the probability variation area, respectively. A solenoid 90, a second special winning opening solenoid 97, and a probability variation area solenoid 99 are provided. These solenoids 88, 90, 97, 99 operate (excite) based on a control signal from the main control CPU 72 to open/close the variable start winning device 28, the first variable winning device 30, and the second variable winning device 31, respectively ( (Operation) or moving the probability variation region vane member 31d. It should be noted that these solenoids 88, 90, 97, 99 are also relayed through the panel relay terminal plate 87, and control signals are transmitted from the main control CPU 72.

  Besides, a glass frame opening switch 91 is installed in the integrated door unit 4, and a plastic frame opening switch 93 is installed in the inner frame assembly 7. When the integrated door unit 4 is independently opened, a contact signal from the glass frame opening switch 91 is input to the main controller 70 (main control CPU 72), and the outer frame unit 2 is opened to the inner frame assembly 7. Then, a contact signal from the plastic frame opening switch 93 is input to the main controller 70 (main control CPU 72). The main control CPU 72 can detect the open state of the integrated door unit 4 and the inner frame assembly 7 from these contact signals. When the main control CPU 72 detects the open state of the integrated door unit 4 and the inner frame assembly 7, the main control CPU 72 generates a door open information signal as the external information signal.

  A payout control device 92 is provided on the back side of the pachinko machine 1. The payout control device 92 (payout control computer) controls the operation of the above-described payout device unit 172. The payout control device 92 is equipped with a circuit board (payout control board) on which the payout control CPU 94 is mounted. The payout control CPU 94 is also an LSI in which semiconductor memories such as a ROM 96 and a RAM 98 are integrated together with a CPU core (not shown). It is configured. The payout control device 92 (payout control CPU 94) controls the operation of the payout device unit 172 based on the prize ball instruction command from the main control CPU 72, and executes the payout operation of the requested number of game balls. The main control CPU 72 generates a prize ball information signal as the external information signal together with the prize ball instruction command.

  A payout device substrate 100 is installed together with a payout motor 102 (eg, a stepping motor) in a prize ball case (not shown) of the payout device unit 172, and a drive circuit for the payout motor 102 is provided on the payout device substrate 100. There is. The payout device substrate 100 specifically controls the rotation angle of the payout motor 102 based on the payout number instruction signal from the payout control device 92 (payout control CPU 94), and pays out the instructed number of game balls from the prize ball case. Let out. The paid game balls are sent to the saucer unit 6 through the payout flow path in the flow path unit 173.

  Further, for example, a payout path ball cutout switch 104 is installed at an upstream position of the prize ball case, and a payout counting switch 106 is installed at a downstream position of the payout motor 102. When a prize ball is actually paid out by driving the payout motor 102, a count signal from the payout counting switch 106 is input to the payout device substrate 100 each time. Further, when a ball break occurs at the upstream position of the prize ball case, a contact signal from the payout path ball break switch 104 is input to the payout device substrate 100. The payout device substrate 100 transmits the input count signal and contact signal to the payout control device 92 (payout control CPU 94). The payout control CPU 94 can detect the actual number of payouts and the out-of-ball state based on the signal received from the payout device substrate 100.

  Further, in the pachinko machine 1, for example, a full tank switch 161 is installed inside the lower plate 6c (position of the back when viewed from the front of the pachinko machine 1). The prize balls (game balls) actually paid out are discharged to the upper plate 6b through the flow path unit 173, but when the upper plate 6b becomes full of game balls, the game balls further paid out It flows into the lower plate 6c as described above. Further, when the lower plate 6c is filled with game balls, the full tank switch 161 is turned on, and the full tank detection signal is input to the payout control device 92 (payout control CPU 94). In response to this, even when the payout control CPU 94 receives the award ball instruction command from the main control CPU 72, the award ball operation beyond that is temporarily suspended and the unpaid remaining award number is stored in the RAM 98. Note that the memory of the RAM 98 can be backed up even when the power is cut off, and even if a power failure (including a momentary power failure) occurs during the game, the unpaid prize ball remaining number information is not lost. ..

  On the back side of the pachinko machine 1, a firing solenoid 110 is installed together with the firing control board 108. Further, a ball feeding solenoid 111 is provided in the tray unit 6. The firing control board 108, the firing solenoid 110, and the ball feed solenoid 111 constitute the firing control board set 174 described above. Among these, the firing control board 108 is provided with drive circuits for the firing solenoid 110 and the ball feed solenoid 111. ing. Of these, the ball feed solenoid 111 performs an operation of sending the game balls stored in the tray unit 6 one by one to a predetermined launch position in the launcher case. In addition, the firing solenoid 110 strikes the game ball sent to the firing position and continuously (intermittently) shoots one game ball toward the game area 8a as described above. The game balls are emitted at intervals of, for example, about 0.6 seconds (100 pieces or less per minute).

  On the other hand, the handle unit 16 located on the front side of the pachinko machine 1 is provided with a firing lever volume 112, a touch sensor 114, and a firing stop switch 116. Of these, the firing lever volume 112 generates an analog signal proportional to the operation amount (so-called stroke) of the firing handle by the player. In addition, the touch sensor 114 detects that the player's body is touching the handle unit 16 (shooting handle) from the change in electrostatic capacitance, and outputs the detection signal. Then, the firing stop switch 116 generates a firing stop signal (contact signal) according to the operation of the player.

  A launch relay terminal plate 118 is installed in the saucer unit 6, and signals from the launch lever volume 112, the touch sensor 114, and the launch stop switch 116 are sent to the launch control board 108 via the launch relay terminal plate 118. Sent to. The drive signal from the firing control board 108 is applied to the ball feeding solenoid 111 via the firing relay terminal board 118. When the player operates the firing handle, an analog signal (which may be an encoded digital signal) is generated by the firing lever volume 112 according to the operation amount, and the firing solenoid 110 is driven based on the signal at this time. As a result, the strength with which the game ball is launched is adjusted according to the amount of operation by the player. The drive circuit of the firing control board 108 stops driving the firing solenoid 110 when the detection signal from the touch sensor 114 is off (low level) or when the firing stop signal is input from the firing stop switch 116. To do. In addition to this, a game ball lending device connection terminal plate 120 is connected to the launch relay terminal plate 118, and when the CR unit is not connected to the game ball lending device connection terminal plate 120, the same is launched. The drive circuit of the control board 108 stops the drive of the firing solenoid 110.

  Further, the saucer unit 6 includes a frequency display board 122 and a lending/returning switch board 123. Of these, the frequency display substrate 122 is provided with a display device (7-segment LED for 3 digits) of the frequency display unit. Further, switch modules connected to the ball lending button 10 and the return button 12 are mounted on the lending/returning switch board 123, and when the ball lending button 10 or the return button 12 is operated, the operation signal thereof is lent. And it is transmitted from the return switch substrate 123 to the CR unit via the lending device connection terminal board 120 for gaming balls and the like. In addition, from the CR unit, a frequency signal indicating the remaining frequency of the valuable medium is transmitted to the frequency display board 122 via the game ball and other lending device connection terminal board 120. A display circuit (not shown) on the frequency display substrate 122 drives the display device based on the frequency signal to numerically display the remaining frequency of the valuable medium. Further, when the valuable medium is not loaded into the CR unit or the remaining frequency of the loaded valuable medium becomes 0, the display circuit of the frequency display substrate 122 drives the display unit to display a demo display (the valuable medium). Can also be displayed.

  In addition, the pachinko machine 1 is provided with a production control device 124 (production control computer) as a control configuration. This effect control device 124 controls the effect associated with the progress of the game in the pachinko machine 1. The effect control device 124 is also equipped with a circuit board (composite sub-control board) on which an effect control CPU 126, which is a central processing unit, is mounted. The effect control CPU 126 incorporates a semiconductor memory such as a ROM 128 and a RAM 130 as a main memory together with a CPU core (not shown). The effect control device 124 is provided at a position covered by the back cover unit 178 on the back side of the pachinko machine 1.

  Further, the effect control device 124 is equipped with an input/output driver (not shown) and various peripheral ICs, as well as a lamp drive circuit 132 and a sound drive circuit 134. The effect control CPU 126 controls the effect based on the command for effect transmitted from the main control CPU 72, gives a command to the lamp drive circuit 132 and the sound drive circuit 134, and emits various lamps 46 to 52 and the panel lamp 53. The process of causing the speakers 54, 55, 56 to actually output sound effects, voice, and the like is performed.

  The effect control device 124 and the main control device 70 are connected to each other via, for example, a communication harness (not shown). However, communication between them is performed in only one direction from the main control device 70 to the effect control device 124, and communication in the opposite direction is not performed. The communication harness may adopt a parallel format according to the bus width of various commands transmitted from the main control device 70 to the effect control device 124, or each driver IC (I/O). The serial format may be adopted according to the hardware configuration of.

  The lamp drive circuit 132 includes, for example, a switching element such as a PWM (pulse width modulation) IC or MOSFET (not shown), and the lamp drive circuit 132 switches (or switches duty) drive voltages applied to various lamps including LEDs. ) And manage the operations such as light emission and blinking. In addition to the glass frame top lamp 46 and the glass frame decoration lamps 48, 50 and 52, the various lamps include a board lamp 53 for decoration and effect installed in the game board unit 8. The board lamp 53 corresponds to the LED built in the above-mentioned effect unit, the LED built in the variable start winning device 28, the first variable winning device 30, the second variable winning device 31, and the like. Although the glass frame decorative lamp 52 is connected to the glass frame decorative substrate 136 here, a saucer decorative substrate is installed in the saucer unit 6, and the glass frame decorative lamp 52 is provided with a saucer decorative lamp. It may be configured to be connected to the lamp drive circuit 132 via a substrate.

  The acoustic drive circuit 134 is, for example, a sound generator including a sound ROM, an acoustic control IC, an amplifier, etc., which are not shown, and the acoustic drive circuit 134 drives the speakers 54, 55, 56 to perform acoustic output.

  In the present embodiment, a glass frame electric decoration substrate 136 is installed on the inner surface of the integrated door unit 4, and drive signals from the lamp drive circuit 132 and the acoustic drive circuit 134 pass through the glass frame electric decoration substrate 136 and various lamps 46. To 52 and speakers 54, 55, 56. In addition, the above-mentioned production change button 45 is connected to the glass frame electric circuit board 136, and when the player operates the production switching button 45, the contact signal is sent to the production control device 124 through the glass frame electric circuit board 136. Is entered. Further, the above-mentioned jog dial 45a is connected to the glass frame decorative board 136, and when the player rotates the jog dial 45a, the rotation signal is input to the effect control device 124 through the glass frame decorative board 136. .. Although the example in which the effect switching button 45 and the jog dial 45a are connected to the glass frame electric decorative board 136 is given here, when the above-mentioned saucer electric decorative board is installed, the effect switching button 45 and the jog dial 45a are the saucer decorative lights. It may be connected to the substrate.

  In addition, a panel lighting board 138 is installed in the game board unit 8, and a movable body motor 57 is connected to the panel lighting board 138 in addition to the board lamp 53. The movable body motor 57 drives the movable body 40f via a link mechanism (not shown), for example. The drive signal from the lamp drive circuit 132 is applied to the panel lamp 53 and the movable body motor 57 via the panel illumination board 138, respectively.

  The above-mentioned liquid crystal display 42 is installed on the back side of the game board unit 8, and its display screen is visible through a substantially rectangular opening formed in the game board unit 8. Further, an inverter board 158 is installed on the back side of the game board unit 8, and this inverter board 158 generates an AC power source that is applied to a backlight (for example, a cold cathode tube) of the liquid crystal display 42. Further, a production display control device 144 is installed on the back side of the game board unit 8, and the display operation by the liquid crystal display 42 is controlled by the production display control device 144. The effect display control device 144 is equipped with a display control CPU 146 which is a general-purpose central processing unit and a circuit board (effect display control board) on which the VDP 152 which is a display processor is mounted. Of these, the display control CPU 146 is configured as an LSI in which semiconductor memories such as a ROM 148 and a RAM 150 are integrated together with a CPU core (not shown). Further, the VDP 152 is configured as an LSI in which semiconductor memories such as an image ROM 154 and a VRAM 156 are integrated together with a processor core (not shown). The VRAM 156 can use a part of its storage area as a frame buffer.

  A basic program relating to the effect control is stored in the ROM 128 of the effect control CPU 126, and the effect control CPU 126 executes the effect control according to this program. The control of the effect includes the control of the effect using the various lamps 46 to 53 and the speakers 54, 55, 56 as described above, and the control of the effect by the image display using the liquid crystal display 42. .. The effect control CPU 126 transmits basic information (for example, effect number) related to the effect to the display control CPU 146, and the display control CPU 146 which has received the information specifically generates an image for effect based on the basic information. Control to display.

  The display control CPU 146 outputs a more detailed control signal to the VDP 152. Upon receiving this, the VDP 152 accesses the image ROM 154 based on the control signal, reads necessary image data from the image ROM 154, and transfers it to the VRAM 156. Further, the VDP 152 expands the image data on the VRAM 156 for each frame (still image per unit time) in the frame buffer, and based on the buffered image data, each pixel (full color pixel) of the liquid crystal display 42 is displayed. Drive individually.

  In addition, a power control unit 162 (power control means) is provided on the back side of the inner frame assembly 7. The power supply control unit 162 contains a switching power supply circuit, and when external power (for example, AC24V or the like) is taken from the island facility through the power cord 164, necessary power (for example, DC+34V, +12V or the like) can be generated from the external power. The electric power generated by the power supply control unit 162 is distributed to the main controller 70, the payout controller 92, the effect controller 124, and the inverter board 158. Further, the electric power is supplied to the launch control board 108 via the payout control device 92, and the electric power is supplied to the CR unit via the game ball etc. lending device connection terminal board 120. The low-voltage power for logic (for example, DC+5V) is generated by a power supply IC (three-terminal regulator or the like) built in each device. Further, as described above, the power supply control unit 162 is grounded (grounded) to the island facility through the ground wire 166.

  The external terminal board 160 is connected to the payout control device 92, and various external information signals generated by the main control device 70 (main control CPU 72) pass through the payout control device 92 and the external terminal board 160. Is output from the outside. The main controller 70 (main control CPU 72) and the payout controller 92 (payout control CPU 94) can output external information signals to the outside of the pachinko machine 1 through the external terminal board 160. The signals output from the external terminal board 160 are totaled by, for example, a hall computer (not shown) in the game arcade. Note that, here, the configuration via the payout control device 92 is taken as an example, but the external information signal may be directly output from the main control device 70 to the external terminal board 160.

  The above is a configuration example relating to control of the pachinko machine 1. Subsequently, a control process executed by the main control CPU 72 of the main control device 70 will be described.

[Reset start (main) processing]
When the pachinko machine 1 is powered on, the main control CPU 72 starts a reset start process. The reset start process restores the game state based on the backup information saved when the power was last shut down (so-called power restoration), and conversely clears the backup information to prepare the initial state of the pachinko machine 1. This is processing for. Further, the reset start process is positioned as a main process (main control program) for ensuring stable game operation of the pachinko machine 1 after the adjustment of the initial state.

  6 and 7 are flowcharts showing a procedure example of the reset start process. Hereinafter, the processing performed by the main control CPU 72 will be described step by step.

  Step S101: The main control CPU72 first sets the top address of the stack area in the stack pointer.

  Step S102: Subsequently, the main control CPU72 sets the vector type interrupt mode (mode 2) and corrects the default RST type interrupt mode (mode 0). Thereby, thereafter, the main control CPU 72 can execute an assigned interrupt handler by referring to an arbitrary address (however, the least significant bit is 0) as an interrupt vector.

  Step S103: The main control CPU72 executes a reset standby process here. This process is to secure a certain waiting time (for example, about several thousand ms) at the time of reset start (for example, power-on) and check the main power-off detection signal during that time. Specifically, when the main control CPU 72 sets the loop counter for the waiting time, it decrements the value of the loop counter and bit-checks the input port of the main power-off detection signal. The main power-off detection signal is input from, for example, a power supply monitoring IC that is a peripheral device. Then, when the input of the main power-off detection signal is confirmed before the loop counter becomes 0, the main control CPU 72 restarts the process from the beginning. This makes it possible to protect the system when, for example, the operation of turning on and off the main power switch (not shown) is repeatedly performed within a short time (about 1 to 2 seconds).

  Step S104: Next, the main control CPU72 permits access to the work area of the RAM76. Specifically, the RAM protection setting value of the work area is reset (00H). As a result, after that, access to the work area of the RAM 76 is permitted.

  Step S105: Further, the main control CPU 72 initializes the mask register for setting the interrupt mask. Specifically, the value that enables the CTC interrupt is stored in the mask register.

  Step S106: The main control CPU72 refers to the input signal from the RAM clear switch saved previously, and confirms whether or not the RAM clear switch is operated (switch ON). If the RAM clear switch has not been operated (No), then step S107 is executed.

  Step S107: Next, the main control CPU72 confirms whether or not the backup information is stored in the RAM76, that is, whether or not the backup validity determination flag is set. If the backup is normally completed in the previous power-off process and the backup validity determination flag (for example, “A55AH”) is set (Yes), then the main control CPU72 executes step S108.

  Step S108: The main control CPU72 performs a sum check on the backup information in the RAM76. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 performs a thumb check on all areas of the work area of the RAM 76 (user work area including a use prohibited area and a stack area) except for the backup validity determination flag and the sum check buffer. If the result of the sum check is normal (Yes), then the main control CPU72 executes step S109.

Step S109: The main control CPU72 resets the backup validity determination flag (for example, "0000H").
Step S110: Further, the main control CPU72 clears the command waiting for transmission immediately before the occurrence of the previous power failure.

  Step S111: Next, the main control CPU72 executes the effect control return processing. In this process, the main control CPU72 instructs the effect control device 124 to return a command (for example, a model designation command, a special symbol probability state designation command, a special figure destination determination effect command, an operation memory number increase effect command, an operation memory number). Decrease time production command, number-of-times-cut-counter remaining number command, special game state designation command, etc.) are transmitted. In response to this, the performance control device 124 is in the performance state that was being executed at the time of the last power-off (for example, the internal probability state, the display mode of the effect symbol, the effect memory number effect display mode, the sound output content, various lamps). It is possible to restore the light emitting state, etc.).

  Step S112: The main control CPU72 executes a state restoration process. In this process, the main control CPU72 sets various values in the work area of the RAM76 based on the backup information, and the game state that was being executed at the time of the previous power-off (for example, a special symbol display mode, an internal probability state, The contents of working memory, various flag states, random number update states, etc.) are restored. Further, the main control CPU72 restores the backed-up value of the PC register.

  On the other hand, when the RAM clear switch is operated when the power is turned on (step S106: Yes), the backup valid determination flag is not set (step S107: No), or the backup information is not normal. (Step S108: No), the main control CPU72 shifts to step S113.

Step S113: The main control CPU72 clears the stored contents of the RAM76 other than the prohibited area. As a result, the work area and stack area of the RAM 76 are all initialized, and even if valid backup information is saved, its contents are erased.
Step S114: Further, the main control CPU72 initializes the RAM76.

  Step S115: The main control CPU72 executes effect control output processing. In this processing, the main control CPU72 outputs a command to be transmitted to the effect control device 124 after initialization (command necessary for effect control).

  Step S116: The main control CPU72 executes a payout control output process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 outputs to the payout control device 92 an instruction command for starting payout of prize balls.

  Step S117: The main control CPU72 executes a CTC initialization process to initialize the CTC (counter/timer circuit) which is a peripheral device. In this processing, the main control CPU72 sets an interrupt vector register, and also sets an interrupt count value (for example, 4 ms) in CTC. As a result, when the CTC interrupt occurs next time, the main control CPU72 can continue the process from the program address of the PC register that was backed up.

  When the above procedure is executed in the reset start process, the main control CPU 72 shifts to the main loop shown in FIG. 7 (connection symbol A→A).

  Step S118, Step S119: The main control CPU72 prohibits an interrupt and then executes a power-off occurrence check process. In this processing, the main control CPU 72 bit-checks the input port of the main power-off detection signal and monitors the occurrence of power-off (driving voltage drop). When the power is cut off, the main control CPU 72 clears the output port buffers corresponding to the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 88, the first special winning opening solenoid 90, the second special winning opening solenoid 97, the probability variation area solenoid 99, etc., and the RAM 76. The entire contents of the work area except for the backup validity judgment flag and the sum check buffer are backed up and the sum result value is stored in the sum check buffer. Then, the main control CPU72 stores the above-mentioned effective value (for example, "A55AH") in the backup effective judgment flag area, prohibits the access to the RAM76, and stops the processing (NOP). On the other hand, if the power is not cut off, the main control CPU72 next executes step S120. Note that there is also a known programming example in which the CPU is caused to execute the processing at the time of occurrence of the power failure as a non-maskable interrupt (NMI) processing.

  Step S120: The main control CPU72 executes an initial value updating random number updating process. In this processing, the main control CPU72 increments the random number for updating (changing) the initial values of various software random numbers. In the present embodiment, various kinds of random numbers except jackpot determination random numbers (hardware random numbers) and hit determination random numbers (hardware random numbers) corresponding to ordinary symbols (for example, jackpot symbol random numbers, reach determination random numbers, fluctuation pattern determination random numbers, etc.) Is generated in the program. These software random numbers are updated by a loop counter within a predetermined range in another interrupt process (step S201 in FIG. 9), but the initial value of the loop counter (all Random number does not have to be the target) has been changed. The random number for initial value update is used to randomly change the initial value, and in step S120, the random number for initial value update is updated. It should be noted that the reason why step S120 is executed after prohibiting the interrupt in step S118 is that the same processing is executed in another interrupt management process (step S202 in FIG. 9). ) Is to prevent. As described above, in this embodiment, the big hit determination random number and the hit determination random number are hardware random numbers generated by the random number generator 75, and the update cycle thereof is faster than the timer interrupt cycle (for example, several ms). Since it is (for example, several μs), it is not necessary to update the big hit determination random number and the initial value of the hit determination random number.

  Step S121, Step S122: The main control CPU72 permits the interrupt and executes other random number update processing. The random numbers updated in this process are random numbers (reach determination random numbers, fluctuation pattern determination random numbers, etc.) that do not relate to the determination of the winning type (winning type) among the software random numbers. This process is performed in the remaining time when a timer interrupt occurs during execution of the main loop and the main control CPU 72 executes another interrupt management process (FIG. 9). The details of the interrupt management process will be described later.

[Power failure occurrence check processing]
FIG. 8 is a flowchart specifically showing a procedure example of the above-described power failure occurrence check process.
Step S130: Here, first, the main control CPU72 sets the condition for power failure occurrence check. This check condition can be set as, for example, an on-counter value for confirming that the main power-off detection signal is continuously output.

  Step S132: Next, the main control CPU72 reads the main power supply cutoff detection switch input port and confirms whether or not the main power supply cutoff detection signal is output (checks a specific bit). Although not particularly shown, the main power-off detection switch is mounted in, for example, the main control device 70. The main power-off detection switch monitors the drive voltage supplied from the power supply control unit 162, and its voltage level is When the voltage drops below the reference voltage, the main power disconnection detection signal is output. The main power-off detection switch may be built in the power supply control unit 162. If the main control CPU 72 confirms that the main power-off detection signal is not output at this time (No), the main control CPU 72 exits this process and returns to the reset start process. On the other hand, when confirming that the main power-off detection signal is output (Yes), the main control CPU72 proceeds to the next step S134.

  Step S134: The main control CPU72 confirms whether or not the above check condition is satisfied. Specifically, the on-counter value set in the previous step S130 is decremented by 1, for example, and it is confirmed whether or not the result has become 0. If the on-counter value is not 0 at this time (No), the main control CPU72 returns to step S132 to reconfirm the main power-off detection switch input port. Then, when the check condition is satisfied by repeating the loop from step S134 to step S132 (step S134: Yes), the main control CPU72 proceeds to step S136.

  Step S136: The main control CPU72, in addition to the output ports corresponding to the normal electric accessory solenoid 88, the first special winning opening solenoid 90, the second special winning opening solenoid 97, the probability variation area solenoid 99 as described above, the test signal Clear the output port buffer corresponding to the pin or command control signal.

Step S138, Step S140: Next, the main control CPU72 adds the entire contents of the work area of the RAM76 excluding the backup validity determination flag and the sum check buffer in 1-byte units, and repeats until the addition is completed for all areas. ..
Step S142: When the sum calculation is completed for all the areas (step S140: Yes), the main control CPU72 stores the sum result value in the sum check buffer.

Step S144: Next, the main control CPU72 stores the valid value in the backup valid determination flag area as described above.
Step S146: Further, the main control CPU72 stores "01H" indicating access prohibition in the protect value of the RAM76, and prohibits access to the work area (including the use prohibition area and the stack area) of the RAM76.
Step S148: Then, the main control CPU72 enters a standby loop and stops all other processes in preparation for shutting off the main power supply cutoff. After the main power supply is cut off, backup power is supplied from a backup power supply circuit (not shown) (for example, a circuit including a capacitive element mounted in the main control device 70), so that the contents stored in the RAM 76 are lost even after the main power supply is cut off. Retained without doing. The backup power supply circuit may be incorporated in the power supply control unit 162, for example.

  Through the above processing, all information stored in the work area of the RAM 76 to be backed up (sum addition target) is retained in the RAM 76 as storage even after the main power is turned off. Further, the retained memory is restored as backup information at the time of power failure after confirming the normal checksum in the reset start process (FIG. 6).

[Interrupt management process (timer interrupt process)]
Next, the interrupt management process (timer interrupt process) will be described. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of interrupt management processing. The main control CPU 72 executes an interrupt management process every predetermined time (for example, several ms) based on the interrupt request signal from the counter/timer circuit. Each step will be described below.

  Step S200: First, the main control CPU72 saves the values of the registers (the pairs of accumulator A and flag register F and general-purpose registers B to L) used during the execution of the main loop to the save area of the RAM76. Another value can be written in the registers (AL) after saving the value in the interrupt management process.

  Step S201: Next, the main control CPU72 executes a lottery random number updating process. In this processing, the main control CPU72 updates the value of the counter for generating various random numbers for lottery. The value of each counter is incremented in the counter area of the RAM 76 and each loops within a specified range. Various random numbers include, for example, a big hit symbol random number.

  Step S202: The main control CPU72 also executes the initial value updating random number updating process here. The content of the process is the same as that described above (step S120 in FIG. 7).

  Step S203: The main control CPU72 executes an input process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 inputs various switch signals from the input/output (I/O) port 79. Specifically, the passage detection signals from the gate switch 78 and the probability variation area switch 95, the upper start winning opening switch 80, the lower starting winning opening switch 82, the right starting winning opening switch 83, the first count switch 84, the second count. The input state (ON/OFF) of the winning detection signal from the switch 85 and the winning opening switch 86 is read.

  Step S204: Next, the main control CPU72 executes a switch input event process. In this process, among the switch signals input in the previous input process, the game is being played based on the winning detection signals from the gate switch 78, the upper starting winning opening switch 80, the lower starting winning opening switch 82, and the right starting winning opening switch 83. The event that has occurred is determined, and further processing is executed according to the event that has occurred. The specific contents of the switch input event process will be described later with reference to another flowchart.

  In this embodiment, when a winning detection signal (ON) is input from the upper start winning opening switch 80, the lower starting winning opening switch 82 or the right starting winning opening switch 83, the main control CPU 72 causes the first special symbol or the second special symbol, respectively. It is determined that an event that triggers the internal lottery (lottery trigger) corresponding to the special symbol has occurred. Further, when the passage detection signal (ON) is input from the gate switch 78, the main control CPU 72 determines that an event that triggers the lottery corresponding to the normal symbol has occurred. When determining that any of the events has occurred, the main control CPU72 executes processing according to each of the occurring events. The processing executed when a winning detection signal is input from the upper start winning opening switch 80, the lower starting winning opening switch 82, or the right starting winning opening switch 83 will be described later with reference to another flowchart.

  Step S205, Step S206a, Step S206b: The main control CPU72 executes the normal symbol game process, the first special symbol game process and the second special symbol game process during the interrupt management process. These processes are for specifically progressing the game in the pachinko machine 1. Of these, in the normal symbol game processing (step S205), the main control CPU72 controls the variable display and the stop display by the normal symbol display device 33 described above, and operates the variable start winning device 28 in accordance with the display result. To control. For example, the main control CPU72 stores the random number (determined random number per ordinary symbol) acquired by the passage of the starting gate 20 in the previous switch input event process (step S204), and in this ordinary symbol game process Then, the random number value is read from the memory and it is determined whether or not it falls within a predetermined hit range (operation lottery execution means). If the random number falls within the hit range, the normal symbol display device 33 variably displays the normal symbol and performs a normal symbol stop display in a predetermined hit mode, and then the main control CPU 72 turns on the normal electric accessory solenoid 88. Excited to operate the variable start winning device 28. On the other hand, if the random number value is out of the hit range, the main control CPU72 performs the stop display of the normal symbol in a mode that is out of alignment after the variable display.

  Further, in the first special symbol game processing (step S206a), the main control CPU72 controls the execution of the internal lottery corresponding to the first special symbol (first lottery execution means), the variation by the first special symbol display device 34 The display and the stop display are controlled, and the operations of the first variable winning device 30 and the second variable winning device 31 are controlled according to the display result. In the second special symbol game process (step S206b), the main control CPU72 controls the execution of the internal lottery corresponding to the second special symbol (second lottery execution means), the variation by the second special symbol display device 35. The display and the stop display are controlled, and the operation of the second variable winning a prize device 31 is controlled according to the display result. The details of the first special symbol game process and the second special symbol game process will be described later using another flowchart.

  Step S207: Next, the main control CPU72 executes a prize ball payout process. In this processing, the number of prize balls is instructed to the payout control device 92 based on the winning detection signals input from the various switches 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86 in the previous input processing (step S203). Output the prize ball instruction command.

  Further, in the prize ball payout process, the main control CPU72 outputs a prize ball content command for transmitting the content of the number of prize balls to the effect control device 124. When the winning detection signal is input from the first count switch 84 or the second count switch 85 corresponding to the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31, it corresponds to the first profit (for 15 game balls). Generate a prize ball content command. When a winning detection signal is input from the winning opening switch 86 corresponding to the normal winning opening 22, a prize ball content command corresponding to the second profit (10 game balls) is generated. The prize ball content command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process (step S212 in FIG. 9).

[About the number of prize balls and the number of game balls acquired]
The number of prize balls in the starting opening of the first special symbol and the number of prize balls in the starting opening of the second special symbol are each set to one or more specified numbers. Further, the number of prize balls may be different between the starting opening of the first special symbol and the starting opening of the second special symbol. Furthermore, based on the winning probability of the special symbol and the expected value of the total number of game balls acquired (the average number of balls that can be obtained during the series from the first hit to the end of the time reduction state), the minimum number of prize balls is set. You may. Furthermore, the winning probability of the special symbol, the expected value of the total number of game balls acquired, the number of times the big winning opening is opened, the opening time of the big winning opening, the maximum number of winnings of the big winning opening, and the number of prize balls of the big winning opening are predetermined. If the conditions are met, a big hit may be set in which the number of game balls obtained by one big hit is less than 1/4 of the maximum number of game balls obtained.

  Step S208: Next, the main control CPU72 executes external information processing. In this processing, the main control CPU 72 sends the above external information signals (for example, prize ball information, door opening information, symbol determination frequency information 1 and 2, jackpot information, starting opening information) to the hall computer in the game hall through the external terminal board 160. Etc.) in the port output request buffer. The external information signal stored in the port output request buffer is transmitted to the data display device or the hall computer via the external terminal board 160.

  In this embodiment, by outputting, for example, “big hit 1” to “big hit 5” among the various external information signals to the outside, the external electronic device (data display) connected to the pachinko machine 1 is displayed. Equipment and hall computer) can provide various jackpot information (external information signal output means). That is, the jackpot information is divided into a plurality of “jackpots 1” to “jackpots 5” and output, so that the types (winning types) of jackpots can be totalized and managed by a hall computer (not shown) from these combinations, or internally. Recognize changes in probability state (low probability state or high probability state) or shortened state of symbol fluctuation time, or generate a small hit (a condition device does not work) that is not classified as a "big hit" even if not winning It is possible to aggregate and manage. Further, based on the jackpot information, for example, a data display device (not shown) counts and displays the number of jackpot occurrences within the past few business days for each pachinko machine 1, and recognizes whether or not each jackpot is currently in the jackpot. Or, it is possible to recognize whether or not each symbol is currently in a shortened symbol variation time. In this external information processing, the main control CPU 72 controls in detail the output states (ON or OFF set) of "big hit 1" to "big hit 5".

  Step S209: Further, the main control CPU72 executes the test signal processing. In this process, the main control CPU72 generates various test signals indicating its own internal state (for example, a normal symbol game management state, a special symbol game management state, a big hit, a probability variation function operation, a time reduction function operation). Then, these are stored in the port output request buffer. With this test signal, the internal state of the main control CPU 72 can be tested outside the main control device 70, for example.

  Step S210: Next, the main control CPU72 executes a display output management process. In this process, the main control CPU72 is a normal symbol display device 33, the normal symbol working memory lamp 33a, the first special symbol display device 34, the second special symbol display device 35, the first special symbol working memory lamp 34a, the second special symbol The lighting state of the operation memory lamp 35a, the game state display device 38, etc. is controlled. Specifically, the normal normal symbol game process (step S205) and the first special symbol game process (step S206a), the drive signal stored in the port output request buffer in the second special symbol game process (step S206b) Output to port. The drive signal is stored in the port output request buffer as byte data applied to each LED. As a result, each LED is driven in a predetermined display mode (a mode in which variable display or stop display of symbols, operation memory number display, game state display, etc. are performed).

  Step S211: Moreover, the main control CPU72 executes an output management process. In this processing, the main control CPU 72 outputs the external information signal (byte data) stored in the port output request buffer in the external information processing (step S208) described above. Further, the main control CPU72, each drive signal of the normal electric auditors product solenoid 88, the first big winning opening solenoid 90, the second big winning opening solenoid 97 and the probability variation area solenoid 99 stored in the port output request buffer, the test. Combine signals and output to the port.

  Step S212: The main control CPU72 executes effect control output processing. In this processing, it is confirmed whether or not there is a command (command required for effect control) that the main control CPU 72 should send to the effect control device 124 in the command buffer, and if there is an untransmitted command, the command to be output is selected. Output to port.

  Step S213: Then, the main control CPU72 clears the port output request buffer stored at this CTC interrupt.

  In the present embodiment, an example in which the processing (game control program module) of steps S205 to S212 is executed as the timer interrupt processing is described, but these processing are executed by being incorporated in the main loop of the CPU. There are also known programming examples.

  Step S214: When the above processing is completed, the main control CPU72 stores a value (01H) designating the end of interrupt in the interrupt program counter, and ends the CTC interrupt.

  Step S215, Step S216: Then, the main control CPU72 restores the saved values of the registers (AL) and permits the next CTC interruption. After that, the main control CPU72 returns to the main loop (the program address designated by the stack pointer).

[Switch input event processing]
FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the switch input event process (step S204 in FIG. 9). Each step will be described below.

  Step S10: The main control CPU72 confirms whether or not the passage detection signal is input from the gate switch 78 corresponding to the normal symbol. When the input of the passage detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU72 proceeds to the next step S11 to execute the normal symbol memory update process. In the normal symbol memory update process, the main control CPU72 confirms whether or not the current normal symbol working memory number is less than the upper limit number (for example, four), and if the upper limit number has not been reached, a normal random number per symbol is acquired. To do. Further, the main control CPU72 normally increments the symbol working memory number by one. Then, the main control CPU72 stores the obtained random number per normal symbol in the random number storage area of the RAM76. On the other hand, when the passage detection signal is not input (No), the main control CPU72 proceeds to step S12.

  Step S12: The main control CPU72 confirms whether or not a winning detection signal is inputted from the upper starting winning opening switch 80 corresponding to the upper starting winning opening 26 (a lottery trigger has occurred). When the input of the winning detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU72 proceeds to the next step S13 to execute the first special symbol memory update process. The specific content of the process will be described later with reference to another flowchart. On the other hand, when the winning detection signal is not input (No), the main control CPU72 proceeds to step S14.

  Step S14: The main control CPU72 confirms whether or not the winning detection signal is input from the lower starting winning opening switch 82 corresponding to the lower starting winning opening 28a (the lottery trigger has occurred). When the input of this winning detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU72 proceeds to the next step S15 and executes the first special symbol memory updating process. The specific content of the process will be described later with reference to another flowchart. On the other hand, if the winning detection signal is not input (No), the main control CPU72 proceeds to step S16.

  Step S16: The main control CPU72 confirms whether or not the winning detection signal is input from the right start winning opening switch 83 corresponding to the right starting winning opening 27 (a lottery trigger has occurred). When the input of the winning detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU72 proceeds to the next step S17 to execute the second special symbol memory updating process. The specific content of the process will be described later with reference to another flowchart. On the other hand, when the winning detection signal is not input (No), the main control CPU72 proceeds to step S18.

  Step S18: The main control CPU72 confirms whether or not the winning detection signal is input from the first count switch 84 corresponding to the first big winning opening of the first variable winning device 30. When the input of the winning detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU72 proceeds to the next step S19 to execute the first special winning hole counting process. In the first big winning opening counting process, the main control CPU 72 counts the number of winning balls to the first variable winning device 30 for each round during the big hit game. On the other hand, when the winning detection signal is not input (No), the main control CPU72 proceeds to step S20.

  Step S20: The main control CPU72 confirms whether or not the winning detection signal is input from the second count switch 85 corresponding to the second big winning opening of the second variable winning device 31. When the input of the winning detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU72 proceeds to the next step S21 to execute the second special winning opening counting process. In the second big winning hole counting process, the main control CPU72 counts the number of winning balls to the second variable winning device 31 during the big hit game. On the other hand, when the winning detection signal is not input (No), the main control CPU72 proceeds to step S22.

  Step S22: The main control CPU72 confirms whether or not a detection signal is input from the probability variation area switch 95 corresponding to the probability variation area provided inside the second variable winning device 31. When the input of the detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU72 proceeds to the next step S23 to execute the probability variation region passing process. As the probability variation area passage processing, the main control CPU72 executes processing for setting the value (01H) of the probability variation function operation flag as a game state flag in the flag area of the RAM76 (high probability state transition means, probability variation function operation means). , Advantageous game state transition means). This probability change function operation flag is reset when the special symbol changes a predetermined number of times (100 times) after the jackpot game is over and no winning result is obtained. In addition, the probability variation function operation flag is reset before the big hit game is started if the winning result is obtained before the special symbol is changed a predetermined number of times (100 times). Further, as the probability variation area passage processing, the main control CPU 72 generates a probability variation area passage command. The probability variation area passage command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process (step S212 in FIG. 9). The main control CPU 72 may execute the probability variation area passage process only within a specific effective time (for example, during the time when the probability variation area solenoid 99 is operated during the big hit game). On the other hand, when the detection signal is not input (No), the main control CPU72 returns to the interrupt management process (FIG. 9).

[First special symbol memory update process]
FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure of the first special symbol memory update processing. Hereinafter, the procedure of the first special symbol memory update processing will be described step by step.

  Step S30: Here, first, the main control CPU72 refers to the value of the first special symbol working memory number counter, and confirms whether the working memory number is less than the maximum value (for example, 4). The working memory number counter represents the number (group number) of the big hit determination random number, the big hit symbol random number, and the like stored in the random number storage area of the RAM 76. Here, the random number storage area of the RAM 76 is divided into four sections for the first special symbol and four sections for the second special symbol (for example, 2 bytes each), and each section has a jackpot determination random number and It is possible to store one big hit symbol random number in a set. At this time, if the value of the working memory number counter corresponding to the first special symbol has reached the maximum value (No), the main control CPU72 returns to the switch input event process (FIG. 10). On the other hand, if the value of the working memory number counter is less than the maximum value (Yes), the main control CPU72 proceeds to the next step S31.

  Step S31: The main control CPU72 adds one to the first special symbol working memory number. The first special symbol working memory number counter is stored, for example, in the working memory number area of the RAM 76, and the main control CPU 72 increments (+1) the value. Based on the value of the counter added here, the lighting state of the first special symbol working memory lamp 34a is controlled in the display output management process (step S210 in FIG. 9).

  Step S32: Then, the main control CPU72 acquires the jackpot determination random number value corresponding to the first special symbol through the sampling circuit 77 from the random number generator 75 (first lottery element acquisition, lottery element acquisition means). The random number value is obtained by designating the pin address of the random number generator 75. When the main control CPU 72 performs 8-bit processing, address designation is performed twice, one byte for each of the upper and lower bits. When the main control CPU 72 reads the jackpot determination random number value from the designated address, it saves it as the jackpot determination random number corresponding to the first special symbol in the transfer destination address.

  Step S33: Next, the main control CPU72 acquires a big hit symbol random number value corresponding to the first special symbol from the big hit symbol random number counter area of the RAM76. The acquisition of this random number value is also performed by designating the address of the jackpot symbol random number counter area. The main control CPU72, when reading the big hit symbol random number value from the specified address, saves this as the big hit symbol random number corresponding to the first special symbol in the transfer destination address.

  Step S34: Further, the main control CPU72 sequentially obtains the reach determination random number and the variation pattern determination random number from the variation random number counter area of the RAM76 as the random value related to the variation condition of the first special symbol (variation pattern determination element acquisition). means). Similarly, the acquisition of these random number values is performed by designating the address of the variable random number counter area. Then, the main control CPU72, when each of the reach determination random number and the variation pattern determination random number is acquired from the designated address, saves these to the transfer destination address.

  Step S35: The main control CPU72 transfers the big hit determination random number, the big hit symbol random number, the reach judgment random number, and the fluctuation pattern determination random number that have been saved together to the random number storage area corresponding to the first special symbol, and these random numbers are empty sections in the area. And store them as a set (storage means, lottery element storage means). The plurality of sections are set in order (for example, first to fourth), and if all the first to fourth sections are empty at this stage, each random number is stored in order from the first section. Alternatively, if the first section is already filled and the other second to fourth sections are empty, each random number is stored sequentially from the second section. Note that the random number storage area is read in the FIFO (First In First Out) format.

  Step S36: Next, the main control CPU72 confirms whether or not the current special game management status (game state) is a big hit. If it is not during the big hit (No), the main control CPU72 executes the following steps S37, S38. If it is a big hit (Yes), the main control CPU72 skips steps S37 and S38 and proceeds to step S38a. The reason for making this determination in the present embodiment is that the effect by pre-reading is not performed for the ball entered during the big hit.

  Step S37: In the case other than during the big hit (step S36: No), the main control CPU72 executes the acquisition time effect determination process for the first special symbol. This process determines the result of the internal lottery in advance (before the start of fluctuation) based on the jackpot determination random number and the jackpot symbol random number of the first special symbol respectively acquired in the previous steps S32 to S34, and thereby the effect contents It is for making a judgment (so-called “look-ahead”). The details of the specific processing will be described later with reference to another flowchart.

  Step S38: When returning from the production effect determination processing at the time of acquisition, the main control CPU72 next sets the upper byte portion (for example, "B8H") of the special figure destination determination effect command for the first special symbol. This upper byte data describes that the command type is "for special figure destination determination effect regarding the first special symbol". The lower byte portion of the special figure destination determination effect command is set in the previous acquisition effect determination processing (step S37), so here, by combining the lower byte with the upper byte, for example, a command of one word length Will be generated.

  Step S38a: Next, the main control CPU72 sets the effect memory number increase effect command for the first special symbol. Specifically, with respect to the preceding value (for example, "BBH") of the upper byte indicating the type of command, the number of working memories after the increase (for example, "01H" to "04H") is added to the lower byte of one word length. Generate a performance command. At this time, with respect to the lower byte, by setting the second digit to “0” by default, the value is “result (change information) due to increase in the number of working memories”. That is, if the lower byte is “01H”, it indicates that the current working memory number has become “01H” as a result of being increased by 1 from the previous working memory number “00H”. Similarly, if the lower byte is “02H” to “04H”, it is increased from the previous working memory number “01H” to “03H” by one, respectively, and as a result, the current working memory number is “02H” to “03H”. 04H” is displayed. The preceding value "BBH" is a value indicating that the effect command this time is the operation memory number command for the first special symbol.

  Step S39: Then, the main control CPU72 executes the effect command output setting process for the first special symbol. This process is for transmitting the special figure destination determination effect command generated in the previous step S38, the operation memory number increase effect effect command generated in step S38a, and the starting mouth winning sound control command to the effect control device 124. It is a thing (memory number notifying means).

  When the above procedure is completed or the first special symbol working memory number has reached 4 (step S30: No), the main control CPU72 returns to the switch input event process (FIG. 10).

[Second special symbol memory update process]
Next, FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the second special symbol memory update processing. Hereinafter, the procedure of the second special symbol memory update processing will be described step by step.

  Step S40: The main control CPU72 refers to the value of the second special symbol working memory number counter, and confirms whether the working memory number is less than the maximum value. Similarly to the second special symbol operation memory number counter, it also represents the number (group number) of the big hit determination random number, the big hit symbol random number, etc. stored in the random number storage area of the RAM 76. At this time, if the value of the second special symbol working memory number counter has reached the maximum value (for example, 4) (No), the main control CPU72 returns to the switch input event process (FIG. 10). On the other hand, if the value of the second special symbol working memory number counter is still less than the maximum value (Yes), the main control CPU72 proceeds to the next step S41 and subsequent steps.

  Step S41: The main control CPU72 increments the second special symbol working memory number by one (increments the value of the second special symbol working memory number counter). Similar to the previous step S31 (FIG. 11), the lighting state of the second special symbol working memory lamp 35a is controlled in the display output management process (step S210 in FIG. 9) based on the value of the counter added here. Will be.

  Step S42: Then, the main control CPU72 acquires the big hit determination random number value corresponding to the second special symbol (acquisition of the second lottery element, lottery element acquisition means). The method of acquiring the random number value is the same as step S32 (FIG. 11) described above.

  Step S43: Next, the main control CPU72 acquires the big hit symbol random number value corresponding to the second special symbol from the big hit symbol random number counter area of the RAM76. The method of obtaining the random number value is the same as step S33 (FIG. 11) described above.

  Step S44: Further, the main control CPU72 sequentially obtains the reach determination random number and the variation pattern determination random number relating to the variation condition of the second special symbol from the variation random number counter area of the RAM76 (variation pattern determination element acquisition means). The acquisition of these random number values is also performed in the same manner as step S34 (FIG. 11) described above.

  Step S45: The main control CPU72 transfers the big hit determination random number, the big hit symbol random number, the reach judgment random number, and the fluctuation pattern determination random number that are saved to the random number storage area corresponding to the second special symbol, and these random numbers are empty sections in the area. It is stored as a set in (storage means). The storage method is the same as step S35 (FIG. 11) described above.

  Step S45a: Next, the main control CPU72 confirms whether or not the current game management status (game state) is a big hit. Then, when it is not during the big hit (No), the main control CPU72 executes the following steps S46 and S47. On the other hand, if it is a big hit (Yes), the main control CPU72 skips steps S46 and S47 and proceeds to step S48. The reason for making this determination in the present embodiment is that the effect due to the look-ahead is not performed for the ball entered during the big hit as well.

  Step S46: If it is not during the big hit (step S45a: No), then the main control CPU72 executes the acquisition time effect determination process for the second special symbol. This process determines the result of the internal lottery in advance (before the start of fluctuation) based on the jackpot determination random number and the jackpot symbol random number of the second special symbol respectively acquired in the previous steps S42 to S44, and thereby the effect contents It is for judging. The details of the specific processing will be described later.

  Step S47: After returning from the production effect determination processing at the time of acquisition, the main control CPU72 next sets the upper byte portion (for example, "B9H") of the special figure destination determination effect command. This upper byte data describes that the command type is "for special figure destination determination effect regarding the second special symbol". Similarly, the lower byte of the special figure destination determination effect command is set in the previous acquisition effect determination process (step S46), so here, by combining the lower byte with the upper byte, for example, 1 word A long command will be generated.

  Step S48: Next, the main control CPU72 sets the effect memory number increase effect command for the second special symbol. Here, a one-word-long production command in which the increased number of working memories (for example, "01H" to "04H") is added to the lower byte with respect to the preceding value (for example, "BCH") of the upper byte that indicates the type of command. To generate. Similarly for the second special symbol, by setting the second digit of the lower byte to "0" by default, that value can be expressed as "result (change information) due to an increase in the number of working memories". it can. The preceding value “BCH” is a value indicating that the effect command this time is the operation memory number command for the second special symbol.

  Step S49: Then, the main control CPU72 executes the effect command output setting process for the second special symbol. As a result, the special figure destination determination effect command, the operation memory number increase effect command, the starting mouth winning sound control command, and the like regarding the second special symbol are prepared to be transmitted to the effect control device 124 (memory number notification means). .. When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event process (FIG. 10).

[Production determination process during acquisition]
FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of the acquisition effect determination process. The main control CPU72 executes this acquisition time effect determination process in the first special symbol memory update process and the second special symbol memory update process (step S37 in FIG. 11, step S46 in FIG. 12) (previous determination Execution means). As described above, this process is the first special symbol (when the ball is entered into the upper starting winning opening 26 or the variable starting winning device 28 (lower starting winning opening 28a)), the second special symbol (to the right starting winning opening 27). It is executed for each of the (when entering the ball). Therefore, the following description may correspond to a process related to the first special symbol or a process related to the second special symbol. The contents of the process will be described below according to each procedure.

  Step S50: The main control CPU72 sets the lower byte portion (for example, "00H") of the special figure destination determination effect command (destination determination information). The byte data set here represents the standard value of the command (at the time of deviation).

  Step S52: Next, the main control CPU72 loads the big hit determination random number as a random number value for the first determination. The random number to be loaded here is stored in the RAM 76 in the first special symbol memory update process (step S35 in FIG. 11) or the second special symbol memory update process (step S45 in FIG. 12). ..

  Step S54: Then, the main control CPU72 determines whether or not the loaded random number is out of the range of the hit value (here, the lower limit value or less) (lottery result destination determination means, advance determination means). Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sets the comparison value (lower limit value) in the A register, and subtracts the loaded random number value from this comparison value. The comparison value (lower limit value) is defined in advance according to the winning probability of the internal lottery in the pachinko machine 1. Next, the main control CPU 72 determines whether the operation result is 0 or a positive value, for example, from the value of the flag register. As a result, if the loaded random number is outside the range of the hit value (Yes), the main control CPU72 proceeds to step S80.

  Step S80: Next, the main control CPU72 executes a deviation pattern information pre-determination process (displacement pattern destination determination means). In this process, the main control CPU72 generates the fluctuation pattern destination determination command described above for the fluctuation time at the time of the deviation. The variation pattern destination determination command generated here reflects in advance the determination information regarding the variation time (or variation pattern number) particularly when the "time reduction function" is activated. For example, if the current state is the operation of the “time reduction function”, the main control CPU 72 corresponds to the “out-of-reach variation (non-shortened variation time)” based on the loaded reach determination random number. Determine if there is. As a result, when the variation time corresponds to “out-of-range reach variation (non-shortening variation time)”, the main control CPU 72 generates a variation pattern destination determination command corresponding to “time saving medium non-shortening variation time”. In the case of reach variation, the “reach group (reach type)” may be further determined from the reach mode random number, and the variation pattern destination determination command may be generated from the result. On the other hand, when the variation time does not correspond to the “outlier reach variation (non-shortening variation time)”, the main control CPU 72 generates a variation pattern destination determination command corresponding to the “time saving medium shortening variation time”. Alternatively, when the current state is the non-operation (low probability state) of the “time reduction function”, the main control CPU 72 responds to the “normally out reach variation” based on the reach determination random number loaded. Or not. As a result, when the variation time corresponds to the “normally outreach variation”, the main control CPU 72 generates a variation pattern destination determination command corresponding to the “normally outreach variation time”. On the other hand, when the variation time does not correspond to the "normal deviation reach variation", the main control CPU72 generates a variation pattern destination determination command corresponding to the "normal deviation reach time". Further, the variation pattern destination determination command generated here is set in the transmission buffer in the effect command output setting process (steps S39 and S49) as described above. In this process, the main control CPU72 may generate a variation pattern destination determination command for the variation pattern at the time of a small hit, similar to the process at the time of the above-mentioned deviation.

  When the above procedure is executed, the main control CPU72 returns to the calling first special symbol memory update process (FIG. 11) or second special symbol memory update process (FIG. 12). On the other hand, in the determination in the previous step S54, if the loaded random number is within the range of the hit value, but not within the range (step S54: No), the main control CPU72 proceeds to step S56.

  Step S56: The main control CPU72 confirms whether or not the probability state schedule flag based on the previous determination result is set. The probability state schedule flag based on the previous determination result is set when the fluctuation has not yet started, but there is a winning value among the big hit determination random numbers stored so far. Specifically, if there is a winning value in the big hit determination random number stored so far, the big hit pattern random number to be paired with this is a "probability variable area passable design (9 round design 2, 16 round design)" If it is applicable, for example, "A0H" is set in the probability state schedule flag. This value represents a flag value for setting the high probability state as a schedule in advance determination (prefetch determination) of the big hit determination random number acquired after this big hit determination random number. On the other hand, when there is a winning value in the big hit determination random number stored so far, if the big hit symbol random number paired with this corresponds to the "uncertain variation (normal) symbol", the probability state For example, "01H" is set in the schedule flag. This value represents a flag value for setting the normal (low) probability state as a schedule when the jackpot determination random number acquired after this jackpot determination random number is pre-determined (look-ahead determination). In addition, if there is no winning value in the big hit determination random number stored so far, the flag value is reset (00H). The value of the probability state schedule flag is stored in the flag area of the RAM 76, for example. Note that, here, an example is given in which the "probability state schedule flag" is used to strictly perform prior collision determination, but when performing prior collision determination simply based on the current probability state, this step S56 and subsequent steps are performed. Steps S58, S60, S62, S76, etc. may be omitted.

  If the probability state schedule flag is not set yet (step S56: No), the main control CPU72 then executes step S66.

  Step S66: In this case, the main control CPU72 next sets the low probability (normal time) comparison value in the A register. The low-probability time comparison value is also defined in advance according to the low-probability winning probability in the pachinko machine 1.

  Step S68: Next, the main control CPU72 loads the "current probability state flag". This probability state flag indicates whether or not the current internal state has a high probability (during probability change), and is stored in the flag area of the RAM 76. If the current probability state is high probability (during probability change), the value “01H” is set as the state flag, and if the current probability state is low probability (normal), the value of the state flag is reset (“00H”). )).

  Step S70: Then, the main control CPU72 confirms whether or not the loaded special symbol probability state flag does not represent a high probability (≠01H), and as a result, if it represents a high probability (No. ), and then step S64 is executed.

  Step S64: The main control CPU72 sets the high probability time comparison value. As a result, the low probability time comparison value set in the previous step S66 is rewritten. The high-probability time comparison value is defined in advance according to the high-probability winning probability in the pachinko machine 1.

  In this way, when the probability state schedule flag based on the previous determination result is not set yet and the current internal state is high probability, the comparison value is rewritten for the high probability time and the next step S72. Will be executed. On the other hand, when it is confirmed in the previous step S70 that the current probability state flag does not indicate a high probability (Yes), the main control CPU72 skips step S64 and executes the next step S72.

  Step S72: The main control CPU72 determines whether or not the random number loaded in the previous step S52 is outside the range of the winning value (lottery result destination determining means). That is, the main control CPU 72 subtracts the jackpot determination random number value from the comparison value set for each state. Then, the main control CPU 72 similarly determines from the value of the flag register whether the operation result is a negative value (<0), and as a result, if the loaded random number is out of the hit value range (Yes). ), the main control CPU72 executes the deviation pattern information pre-determination process (step S80). On the other hand, if the loaded random number is within the range of the hit value but not within the range (No), the main control CPU72 proceeds to step S74.

  Step S74: The main control CPU72 executes a big hit symbol type determination process. This process is to determine the jackpot type (winning type) at that time based on the jackpot symbol random number paired with the jackpot determination random number. For example, the main control CPU72 loads the big hit symbol random number for each symbol stored in the first special symbol memory update process (step S35 in FIG. 11) or the second special symbol memory update process (step S45 in FIG. 12). Then, the calculation using the comparison value is executed in the same manner as in step S54 described above, and from the result, the "probability variation area difficult design (9 round design 1)" or "probability variation area passable design (9 round design 2) , 16 round pattern)”. The main control CPU72 stores the determination result at this time as a special symbol destination determination value, and proceeds to the next step S76.

  Step S76: Then, the main control CPU72 sets the value of the probability state schedule flag based on the previous determination result. Specifically, when the special symbol destination determination value stored in the previous step S74 indicates a "probability variation area difficult symbol", the main control CPU72 sets the value "01H" to the probability state schedule flag. On the other hand, if the special symbol destination determination value represents a "probability variation area passable symbol", the main control CPU72 sets the value "A0H" to the probability state schedule flag. As a result, it is determined that the flag has been set in step S56 in the subsequent processing.

  Step S78: The main control CPU72 sets the special symbol destination determination value stored in the previous step S74 as the lower byte of the special symbol destination determination effect command. The special symbol destination determination value is set to, for example, "01H" when it corresponds to the "probability variation area difficult symbol", and is set to "A0H" when it corresponds to the "probability variation area passable symbol". In any case, by setting the lower byte data here, the standard lower byte data "00H" set in the previous step S50 is rewritten.

  Step S79: Next, the main control CPU72 executes a large hitting variation pattern information pre-determination process (variation pattern destination determination means). In this processing, the main control CPU72 generates the above-mentioned fluctuation pattern destination determination command for the fluctuation time at the time of a big hit. The variation pattern destination determination command generated here reflects, for example, advance determination information regarding the reach variation time (or variation pattern number) at the time of a big hit. Further, the variation pattern destination determination command generated here is set in the transmission buffer in the effect command output setting process (steps S39 and S49) as described above.

  The above is the procedure before the probability state schedule flag is set based on the previous determination result (before the internal initial hit). On the other hand, when the probability state schedule flag is set through the previous step S76, the following procedure is executed. However, when the prior hit determination is performed only with the current probability state as described above, it is not necessary to execute the following steps S56, S58, S60, S62, and S76.

  Step S56: When the main control CPU72 confirms that a value has already been set in the probability state schedule flag (Yes), then it executes step S58.

  Step S58: The main control CPU72 first sets the low probability (normal time) comparison value in the A register.

  Step S60: Next, the main control CPU72 loads the "probability state schedule flag". The stochastic state schedule flag is used to set a stochastic state in the future prior determination based on the immediately preceding previous determination result as described above, and is stored in the flag area of the RAM 76. .. If the probability state based on the immediately preceding previous determination result is scheduled to shift to a high probability (probability change), “A0H” is set as the value of the probability state schedule flag as described above, and conversely the immediately previous previous determination result. If the probability state based on is scheduled to return to a low probability (normal), "01H" is set as the value of the probability state schedule flag.

  Step S62: Then, the main control CPU72 confirms whether or not the loaded probability state schedule flag does not represent a high probability schedule (≠01H), and as a result, if it indicates a high probability schedule ( No), then step S64 is executed to set the high probability time comparison value.

  In this way, if the probability state schedule flag based on the previous determination result has already been set and the value is intended to have a high probability, the comparison value is rewritten for high probability and the next step S72 and subsequent steps are performed. Will be executed. On the other hand, when it is confirmed in the previous step S62 that the probability state schedule flag does not represent the high probability schedule but the normal (low) probability schedule (Yes), the main control CPU 72 executes the step. S64 is skipped and the subsequent steps S72 and thereafter are executed. Thus, in the present embodiment, the jackpot determination in advance can be performed in consideration of subsequent changes in the internal state based on the previous determination result (normal probability state→high probability state, high probability state→normal probability state). ..

  After finishing the above procedure, the main control CPU72 returns to the first special symbol memory update process (FIG. 11) or the second special symbol memory update process (FIG. 12).

[Parallel variation of the first special symbol and the second special symbol]
Next, the details of the first special symbol game process and the second special symbol game process will be described. In the present embodiment, for the first special symbol and the second special symbol, by performing the internal lottery corresponding to each of them separately, the variable display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol by the first special symbol display device 34. It is possible to perform the variable display of the second special symbol by the display device 35 in parallel (symbol parallel variation means). Therefore, in the present embodiment, for each of the first special symbol and the second special symbol, the first special symbol game process and the second special symbol game process are separately controlled on the control by the main control CPU 72 (1 in one interrupt cycle). It is supposed to be executed once.

[First special symbol game processing]
FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the first special symbol game processing.
The first special symbol game process has a procedure (step S1000a) for confirming whether or not the internal state flag is "starting big win (big hit game)" first.

  Step S1000a: The main control CPU72 confirms whether or not the gaming state (internal state) corresponding to the second special symbol is "Large winning start (in big hit game)". This confirmation can be performed based on the progress status of the processing performed so far with respect to the second special symbol (the value of the second special symbol game management status). In the present embodiment, this confirmation is performed because, when the big hit game is being performed for the other second special symbol, the game relating to the first special symbol is not allowed to proceed.

  At the present time, especially if the jackpot game is not being performed regarding the second special symbol (the value of the second special symbol game management status during the jackpot) (No), the main control CPU72 executes the process of the next step S1000b.

  Further, the first special symbol game process, the variable time measurement temporary stop flag stored in the RAM76 is ON, and the procedure for confirming whether the game state is a small hit (step S1000b) Have It should be noted that when the fluctuation time measurement pause flag is ON, it means that the fluctuation time measurement is paused, and when the fluctuation time measurement suspension flag is OFF, the fluctuation time measurement is not performed. It means that it is not paused.

  Step S1000b: The main control CPU72 confirms whether or not the variable time measurement temporary stop flag stored in the RAM76 is ON and the gaming state is a small hit. In the present embodiment, this confirmation is carried out in the small hit game with respect to the other second special symbol, and when the first symbol is changing, the fluctuation time of the first special symbol is temporarily measured. This is because it is supposed to be stopped.

  At this point, if the variation time measurement pause flag is not ON, or the variation time measurement pause flag is ON but the gaming state is not small hit (No), the main control CPU 72 determines the next step. The processing after S1000b1 is executed. Steps S1000b1 to S6000 are program modules that are the basis of the first special symbol game processing, respectively. The main control CPU72 can specifically control the progress situation of the game corresponding to the first special symbol through the processes of these basic steps S1000b1 to S6000.

  On the other hand, when the variable time measurement temporary stop flag is ON and the small hit game is in progress (Yes), the main control CPU72 executes the process of step S7000.

  The basic part of the first special symbol game process, special game special symbol determination flag update process (step S1000b1), execution selection process (step S1000c), special symbol variation pre-process (step S2000), special symbol variation process (step S3000), special symbol stop displaying process (step S4000), big winning variable winning device management process (step S5000), small winning variable winning device management process (step S6000) subroutine (program module) group is included. .. Here, first, a basic flow will be described with respect to the root part of the first special symbol game process along with each process.

  Step S1000b1: The main control CPU72 executes the special game special symbol determination flag update processing (second flag setting means). In this process, the main control CPU72 executes a process of determining a process target symbol as to which special symbol of the first special symbol and the second special symbol is the target of the process. Here, the special game special symbol determination flag (second flag) is a flag that identifies the symbol to be processed, and is stored in the RAM 76. Specifically, the main control CPU72 executes a process of setting the value of the special game special symbol determination flag to a value (for example, "0") corresponding to the first special symbol.

  Step S1000c: In the execution selection process, the main control CPU72 selects the jump destination of the process to be executed next (one of steps S2000 to S6000) from the "jump table". For example, the main control CPU72 sets the program address of the process to be executed next as the jump destination address, and sets the end of the first special symbol game process as the return destination address in the stack pointer.

  Which process is selected as the next jump destination depends on the progress status of the process performed so far (first special symbol game management status). For example, if the first special symbol has not started the variable display yet (first special symbol game management status: 00H), the main control CPU72 the special symbol fluctuation preprocessing (step S2000) as the next jump destination. select. Moreover, if the special symbol variation pre-processing has already been completed (first special symbol game management status: 01H), the main control CPU72 selects the special symbol varying process (step S3000) as the next jump destination, and the special symbol. If the process during change is completed (first special symbol game management status: 02H), the special symbol stop displaying process (step S4000) is selected as the next jump destination. In the present embodiment, the jump destination address is specified in the “jump table” to select the process. However, in addition to such a selection method, a “process flag”, a “process selection flag”, or the like is used. There is also a known programming example in which the CPU selects the process to be executed next. In such a programming example, the CPU CALLs each process once and performs a conditional branch (continuation/return) by referring to the flags one by one in the first step, but in the selection method of the present embodiment, the main control is performed. There is no need for the CPU 72 to call each process one by one.

  Step S2000: In the special symbol variation pre-processing, the main control CPU72 performs an operation to prepare the conditions for starting the variable display of the first special symbol. Specifically, the big hit determination (first lottery execution means) and the variation pattern are determined here, and in the case of a big hit, the winning type is also determined. In addition, the main control CPU 72 sets the frequency cut counters for the “time reduction state” and the “high probability state” in accordance with the determination of the winning type. The details of the specific processing will be described later with reference to another flowchart.

  Step S3000: In the special symbol variation process, the main control CPU72 controls the drive of the first special symbol display device 34 while counting the variation timer. Specifically, an ON or OFF drive signal (1 byte data) is output to each segment and dot (0th to 7th) of the 7-segment LED. The pattern of the drive signal changes with the passage of time, whereby the variable display of the first special symbol is performed.

  Further, in this process, a determination process as to whether or not to activate the skip function is also performed, and in the previous jackpot determination, for example, the first special symbol is changing in the jackpot, and the second special symbol is not won. When it corresponds, the skip function is activated for the second special symbol. By the operation of this skip function, the process of forcibly ending the variation of non-winning of the second special symbol is performed. The details of the specific processing will be described later with reference to another flowchart.

  Step S4000: In the special symbol stop display process, the main control CPU72 controls the drive of the first special symbol display device 34. Here, similarly, an ON or OFF drive signal is output for each segment and dot of the 7-segment LED, but the pattern of the drive signal is constant, whereby the stop display of the first special symbol is performed. The details of the specific processing will be described later with reference to another flowchart.

  Step S5000: The big winning time variable winning device management process is selected when the first special symbol is stopped and displayed in the manner of a big hit in the previous special symbol stop displaying process. For example, when the first special symbol is stopped and displayed in the form of a 9-round big hit, a trigger occurs to shift from the normal state until then to the big hit game state (a special game state advantageous to the player). During the big hit game with respect to the first special symbol, the jump destination is set to the big winning time variable winning device management process in the previous execution selection process (step S1000c), and the variable display of the first special symbol is not performed. In the jackpot variable winning device management processing, the first big winning opening solenoid 90 or the second big winning opening solenoid 97 has a preset number of continuous operations for a certain time (for example, 29 seconds or until 9 winnings are counted). The first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 is opened and closed in a predetermined pattern (continuous operation of the special electric auditors) by being excited (for example, 9 times). In the meantime, by intensively winning the game balls to the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31, the player is given an opportunity to collect a lot of prize balls (special game. Execution means). In addition, the opening and closing operation of the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 at the time of a big hit is called "round", and if the number of continuous operations is 9 times in total, this is called "9 rounds". Collectively. In the present embodiment, not only the 9 round jackpot but also a plurality of 16 round jackpots are provided as the jackpot type. Further, for the 9-round jackpot and the 16-round jackpot, a plurality of winning types (winning symbols) are provided therein.

  When the main control CPU 72 sets a special winning opening opening pattern (the number of rounds, the number of opening/closing operations per round, the opening time, etc.) in the jackpot variable winning device management processing, the first variable winning device 30 for one round or the Every time the opening/closing operation of the 2-variable winning device 31 is completed, the value of the round number counter is incremented by 1. The value of the round number counter is stored in the count area of the RAM 76 with an initial value of 0, for example. Further, the main control CPU72 generates a round number command indicating the value of the round number counter. The round number command is transmitted to the production control device 124 in the production control output processing. When the value of the round number counter reaches the set number of consecutive operations, the main control CPU 72 ends the big hit game (big win) for the first special symbol only for that round.

  When the big hit game is finished, the main control CPU 72 changes the state (high probability state, time shortened state) after the big hit game based on the game state flag (probability variation function operation flag, time reduction function operation flag) ( High probability state transition means, low probability time reduction state transition means, high probability time reduction state transition means). In the “high probability state”, the probability variation function is activated, and the winning probability in the internal lottery becomes about 10 times higher than usual. Also, in the "time reduction state", the time reduction function operates, the operation lottery for ordinary symbols has a high probability, the variation time of ordinary symbols is shortened, and the opening time of the variable start winning device 28 is extended to increase the number of times of opening. Will be increased (so-called Den Chu support will be provided). The “high-probability state” and the “time-reduced state” may be shifted to either one of them in terms of control, or may be shifted to both of them.

  Step S6000: Small winning time variable winning a prize device management processing is selected when the first special symbol is stopped and displayed in the mode of small winning in the previous special symbol stop displaying process. For example, when the first special symbol is stopped and displayed in the form of a small hit, the opportunity to shift from the normal state until then to the small hit game state occurs. During the small hit game, the jump destination is set to the small winning time variable winning device management process in the previous execution selection process (step S1000c), and the variable display of the special symbol is not performed. In the small hit game, the first variable winning device 30 opens and closes a predetermined number of times (for example, once) with a predetermined opening time (for example, 1.8 seconds), so that the player can play a certain amount of balls during the small hit game. Can be earned. In the present embodiment, since the small hit is not set for the first special symbol, this process is not executed. However, when the small hit is set for the first special symbol, this process is performed. Is executed.

  Step S7000: The variable time measurement temporary stop process is a process for maintaining the fluctuation of the first special symbol without stopping. The main control CPU72, during the small hit game with respect to the second special symbol, and when the first special symbol is changing, performs drive control of the first special symbol display device 34. As the drive control of the first special symbol display device 34, a process of outputting an ON or OFF drive signal (1 byte data) to each segment and dot (0th to 7th) of the 7-segment LED is executed, Thereby, the state where the first special symbol is not stopped is maintained. In addition, when the measurement of the variation time of the first special symbol is temporarily stopped, the measurement of the variation time is restarted after the end of the small hit game. Incidentally, the main control CPU72, even if it is determined that the small hit game is in the second special symbol, if the first special symbol is not changing, does not execute the variable time measurement temporary stop process.

[Second special symbol game processing]
FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the second special symbol game processing.
The second special symbol game process has a procedure (step S1900a) of first confirming whether or not a big hit is being made for the other first special symbol.

  Step S1900a: The main control CPU72 confirms whether or not the gaming state corresponding to the first special symbol is "big hit game in progress". This confirmation can also be performed based on the value of the first special symbol game management status as described above. It should be noted that the reason for excluding the determination as to whether or not the "small hitting game is being played" is because there is no small hit in the first special symbol.

  At the present time, if it is not a big hit game with respect to the first special symbol (the value of the first special symbol game management status is a big hit) (No), the main control CPU72 executes the process of the next step S1900a1. Steps S1900a1 to S6900 are program modules that are the basis of the second special symbol game processing. The main control CPU72 can specifically control the progress of the game corresponding to the second special symbol through the processes of these basic steps S1900a1 to S6900.

  As described in the first special symbol game process, the basic part of the second special symbol game process, special game special symbol determination flag update process (step S1900a1), execution selection process (step S1900b), special symbol fluctuation Pre-processing (step S2900), special symbol changing process (step S3900), special symbol stop displaying process (step S4900), big winning variable winning device management process (step S5900), small winning variable winning device managing process (step) The subroutine (program module) group of S6900) is included. The description of the same contents as the first special symbol game process will be appropriately omitted.

  Step S1900a1: The main control CPU72 executes a special game special symbol determination flag update process (second flag setting means). In this process, the main control CPU72 executes a process of determining a process target symbol as to which special symbol of the first special symbol and the second special symbol is the target of the process. Specifically, the main control CPU72 executes a process of setting a value (for example, "1") corresponding to the second special symbol in the value of the special game special symbol determination flag.

  Step S1900b: In the execution selection process, the main control CPU72 selects the jump destination of the process to be executed next (any one of steps S2900 to S6900) from the "jump table". For example, the main control CPU72 sets the program address of the process to be executed next as the jump destination address, and sets the end of the second special symbol game process as the return destination address in the stack pointer.

  Here again, which process is selected as the next jump destination differs depending on the progress status of the process performed so far (second special symbol game management status). For example, if the second special symbol has not yet started the variable display (second special symbol game management status: 00H), the main control CPU72 the special symbol variation preprocessing (step S2900) as the next jump destination. select. Moreover, if the special symbol variation pre-processing has already been completed (second special symbol game management status: 01H), the main control CPU72 selects the special symbol varying process (step S3900) as the next jump destination, and the special symbol. If the process during change is completed (second special symbol game management status: 02H), the special symbol stop displaying process (step S4900) is selected as the next jump destination.

  Step S2900: In the special symbol variation preprocessing in the second special symbol game process, the main control CPU72 performs a work to prepare the condition for starting the variable display of the second special symbol (second lottery execution means).

  Step S3900: Further, in the special symbol changing process, the main control CPU72 controls the driving of the second special symbol display device 35 while counting the change timer.

  Step S4900: In the special symbol stop display process in the second special symbol game process, the main control CPU72 controls the drive of the second special symbol display device 35. Here, similarly, an ON or OFF drive signal is output to each segment and dot of the 7-segment LED, whereby the stop display of the second special symbol is performed.

  Step S5900: The big winning variable winning device management process is selected when the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in the manner of a big hit in the special symbol stop displaying process. Here, similarly, the stop display mode of the second special symbol is determined in a mode according to the winning type. Further, the main control CPU72, when setting the special winning opening opening pattern (the number of rounds, the number of opening and closing operations per round, opening time, etc.) in the jackpot variable winning device management processing, the second variable winning device for one round. Each time the opening/closing operation of 31 is completed, the value of the round number counter is incremented by 1. When the value of the number of rounds counter reaches the set number of continuous operations, the main control CPU 72 ends the big hit game (big win) for the second special symbol only for that round.

  Then, when the big hit game is finished with respect to the second special symbol, the main control CPU 72 changes the state after the big hit game based on the game state flag (probability variation function operation flag, time shortening function operation flag).

  Step S6900: Small hitting variable winning device management processing is selected when the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in the manner of small hit in the previous special symbol stop display processing (special game executing means). For example, when the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in a small hit mode, a trigger occurs to shift from the normal state until then to the small hit game state. During the small hit game, the jump destination is set in the small hitting variable winning device management process in the previous execution selection process (step S1000), and the variable display of the special symbol is not performed. In the small hit game, the first variable winning device 30 opens and closes a predetermined number of times (for example, once) with a predetermined opening time (for example, 1.8 seconds), so that the player can play a certain amount of balls during the small hit game. Can be earned.

[Multiple winning types]
In the present embodiment, for the above “16 round jackpot”, for example, only (1) “16 round jackpot” is provided as a plurality of winning types. In addition to “16 round jackpot”, a plurality of winning types (2) “9 round jackpot 1” and (3) “9 round jackpot 2” are provided. However, in the present embodiment, jackpots other than 16 rounds and 9 rounds may be provided.

  The above-mentioned winning type corresponds to the type of the first special symbol or the second special symbol which is stopped and displayed at the time of winning. For example, "16 round jackpot" corresponds to the "16 round jackpot" jackpot, "9 round jackpot 1" corresponds to the "9 round jackpot 1" jackpot, "9 round jackpot 2" is "9 round jackpot 2" Corresponding to the big hit. Therefore, in the following, the “winning type” is appropriately referred to as the “winning symbol”.

[Opening pattern of variable winning device]
FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an opening operation pattern of the variable winning device. The contents of opening the special winning opening and the probability variation area corresponding to each winning symbol will be described.

[9 round pattern 1]
In the above special symbol stop display process, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the form of "9 round symbol 1", a trigger occurs to shift from the normal state until then to the big hit game state (special game execution means). . In this case, the first big winning opening 30a of the first variable winning device 30 is opened once for a sufficiently long time (for example, a maximum opening time of 29.0 seconds) from the first round, which is 5 times. Continue to the round. Then, in the sixth round, the first special winning opening 30a is opened four times in a shorter time (for example, 0.1 seconds) than in the first to fifth rounds. Therefore, the sixth round of the "9 round pattern 1" big hit game is ended without giving a substantial payout (prize ball) to the player. In addition, in the seventh round to the ninth round, the second special winning opening 31a of the second variable winning a prize device 31 is once in a shorter time (for example, 0.1 seconds) than in the first round to the fifth round. Open. Therefore, the seventh to ninth rounds of the "9 round symbol 1" jackpot game are finished without giving a substantial payout (prize ball) to the player. Therefore, the big hit game of "9 round pattern 1" is to give a payout (prize ball) for about 5 rounds to the player. Further, in the jackpot game of "9 round symbol 1", the second special winning opening 31a is opened from the seventh round to the ninth round, but the opening time of the second special winning opening 31a is extremely short (for example, Since it is set to 0.1 second from the start of the round, it is extremely difficult for the game ball to pass through the probability variation area. In the case of "9 round pattern 1", even if the "time saving function" is inactive in the previous game, by operating the "time saving function" after the jackpot game, the "time saving function" is activated. The privilege of shifting to the "shortened state" is given to the player.

  It should be noted that the first big winning opening 30a of the first variable winning device 30 is closed without waiting for the elapse of the longest opening time when a specified number of winnings (for example, 10 times = 10 game balls) occur in one round. To be done. Similarly, the second big winning opening 31a of the second variable winning device 31 does not wait for the longest opening time when a predetermined number of winnings (for example, 10 times = 10 game balls) occur in one round. To be closed.

[9 round pattern 2]
In the above special symbol stop display processing, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the form of "9 round symbol 2", the opportunity to shift from the normal state until then to the big hit game state occurs (special game execution means). .. In this case, the first big winning opening 30a of the first variable winning device 30 is opened once for a sufficiently long time (for example, a maximum opening time of 29.0 seconds) from the first round, which is 5 times. Continue to the round. Then, in the sixth round, the first special winning opening 30a is opened four times in a shorter time (for example, 0.1 seconds) than in the first to fifth rounds. Therefore, the sixth round of the "9 round pattern 2" big hit game is finished without giving a substantial payout (prize ball) to the player. Further, in the seventh round of the "9 round pattern 2" big hit game, it takes a sufficiently long time (for example, a maximum opening time of 29.0 seconds) for the second big winning opening 31a of the second variable winning device 31. It is opened once. Further, in the eighth round and the ninth round, the second special winning opening 31a of the second variable winning a prize device 31 is opened once in a shorter time (for example, 0.1 seconds) than in the seventh round. Therefore, in the big hit game of "9 round pattern 2", the payout (prize ball) for approximately 6 rounds is given to the player. However, in the seventh round of the "9 round pattern 2" big hit game, the opening time of the second special winning opening 31a is set to a long time (for example, 29 seconds from the start of the round), so that the game ball is a sudden change area. May pass through. In the "9 round pattern 2" big hit game, the second big winning opening 31a is opened in the 8th and 9th rounds, but the opening time of the second big winning opening 31a is extremely short (for example, Since it is set to 0.1 seconds from the start of the round, it is extremely difficult for the game ball to pass through the probability variation area.

  Also, in the case of "9 round pattern 2", if the game ball passes through the probability variation area arranged inside the second variable winning device 31 in the seventh round, the "probability after the jackpot game ends. The variable function" is activated to give the player a privilege of shifting to the "high probability state".

  Furthermore, in the case of "9 round pattern 2", only when the game ball did not pass the probability variation area during the big hit game, the "time saving function" was inactive in the game until then. Even in this case, by operating the "time reduction function" after the big hit game is finished, the player is provided with a privilege of shifting to the "time reduction state".

[16 round pattern]
In the above special symbol stop display processing, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the form of "16 round symbol", the opportunity to shift from the normal state until then to the big hit game state occurs (special game execution means). In this case, the first big winning opening 30a of the first variable winning device 30 is opened once for a sufficiently long time from the first round (for example, a maximum opening time of 29.0 seconds), which is 6 times. Continue to the round. Then, from the 7th round, the second special winning opening 31a of the second variable winning device 31 is opened once for a sufficiently long time (for example, the maximum opening time of 29.0 seconds), and this is the 9th round. Continue to your eyes. After that, the first big winning opening 30a of the first variable winning device 30 is opened once for a sufficiently long time (for example, a maximum opening time of 29.0 seconds) from the tenth round, which is 16 rounds. Continue to your eyes. For this reason, the big hit game of "16 round pattern" is to give a payout (prize ball) for 16 rounds to the player. Here, in the seventh to ninth rounds of the "16 round pattern" jackpot game, the opening time of the second special winning opening 31a is set to a long time (for example, 29 seconds from the start of the round), so the game It is possible that the sphere will pass through the probable region.

  Further, in the case of "16 round pattern", if the game ball passes through the probability variation area arranged inside the second variable winning device 31 during the seventh round to the ninth round, the big hit game After the end of, the "probability change function" is activated, and the privilege of shifting to the "high probability state" is given to the player.

  Furthermore, in the case of "16 round pattern", only when the game ball does not pass the probability variation area during the big hit game, it is assumed that the "time reduction function" is inactive in the previous game. Also, by activating the "time-reducing function" after the jackpot game is finished, the player is provided with a privilege of shifting to the "time-reducing state".

  As described above, when the winning symbol corresponds to the above-mentioned "9 round symbol 1", it is extremely rare for the game ball to pass through the probability variation area during the big hit game, so in most cases, the internal state after the big hit game is over. Shifts to the "low probability state". Also, if the winning symbol corresponds to either of the above "9 round symbol 2" or "16 round symbol", and if the game ball passes the probability variation area during the big hit game, the internal state becomes "high" after the big hit game ends. The player is provided with a privilege of shifting to the “probability state”. Also, in the "high probability state", the internal lottery is won, and the winning symbol at that time corresponds to either "9 round symbol 2" or "16 round symbol", and the game ball is a certain variation area during the big hit game. After passing, the "high probability state" is continued (restarted) even after the big hit game is over. On the other hand, even if the winning symbol corresponds to either of the above "9 round symbol 2" or "16 round symbol", if the game ball does not pass the probability variation area during the big hit game, the inside after the big hit game ends The state shifts to the "low probability state".

  Furthermore, when the winning symbol corresponds to the above-mentioned "9 round symbol 1", the "time reduction function" is in the inactive state in the game until then, regardless of whether or not the probability variation area has passed during the big hit game. Even if it does, by operating the "time-reducing function" after the big hit game is finished, the privilege of shifting to the "time-reducing state" is given to the player. On the other hand, when the winning symbol corresponds to either of the above "9 round symbol 2" or "16 round symbol", the big hit game ends only when the game ball does not pass the probability variation area during the big hit game. By activating the "time reduction function" later, the player is provided with a privilege of shifting to the "time reduction state".

  Further, in the operation pattern shown in this table, the inter-round interval time is “1.5 seconds” which is common. The inter-round interval time is a waiting time set between rounds.

[Small hits]
In addition, in the present embodiment, a small hit is provided for the second special symbol as a winning type other than non-winning. When the small hit is won, the small hit game is executed in addition to the big hit game, and the first variable winning device 30 is opened/closed (special game execution means). That is, in the special symbol stop display process, when the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in the form of a small hit, the small hit game (the first variable winning device 30 operates in the normal probability state or the high probability state) Game).

  Here, in the present embodiment, a small hit is not set for the first special symbol, but a small hit may be set for the first special symbol. However, in that case, in order to increase the incidence of small hits in the second special symbol lottery, in the second special symbol lottery, than the probability of falling in the first special symbol lottery (special winning type) It is preferable to specify a high probability of hitting a small hit. In the small hit game, the first variable winning device 30 opens and closes a predetermined number of times (for example, once) with a predetermined opening time (for example, 1.8 seconds), so that the player can play a certain amount of balls during the small hit game. Can be earned. Also, even if the small hit game is over, the "probability variation function" will not operate, and the "time reduction function" will not operate, so it will be "high probability state" or "time reduction state". No benefits will be granted for transfer (this is not a prerequisite). In addition, even if you win the small hit in the "high probability state", the "high probability state" will not end after the small hit game, and even if you win the small hit in the "time reduction state" The "time reduction state" does not end after the winning game ends (except when the maximum number of times is reached).

[Special symbol fluctuation pretreatment]
FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of special symbol variation preprocessing. The contents of the special symbol variation preprocessing listed below can be common to the first special symbol game process (FIG. 14) and the second special symbol game process (FIG. 15). However, when the following procedure is applied to the first special symbol game process, the control target is the first special symbol, and when the second special symbol game process is applied, the control target is the second special symbol and To do. Hereinafter, each procedure will be described.

  Step S2090: First, the main control CPU72 executes a process of confirming whether or not the variable time measurement temporary stop flag stored in the RAM76 is ON.

  When it is determined that the variable time measurement temporary stop flag is ON (Yes), the main control CPU72 executes step S2092.

  Step S2092: The main control CPU72 executes a stop symbol reading process. In this process, the information of the stop symbol saved in the RAM 76 is read. Then, based on the read information of the stop symbol, the main control CPU72 sets the stop symbol number data at the time of the disengagement by the first special symbol display device 34. Further, the main control CPU72 generates a stop symbol command and a lottery result command (at the time of losing) to be transmitted to the effect control device 124. These commands are transmitted to the performance control device 124 in the performance control output processing.

  Step S2094: The main control CPU72 executes the remaining variable time reading process. In this process, the value of the fluctuation timer saved in the RAM 76 (the value of the remaining fluctuation time) is read. Then, the main control CPU72 sets the value of the read variation timer in the variation timer, and also sets the value of the stop display time at the time of departure in the stop symbol display timer.

  Step S2096: Next, the main control CPU72 executes a special symbol re-variation start process. In this process, the main control CPU72 sets the re-variation start flag of the special symbol in the flag area of the RAM76. Then, the main control CPU72 generates a re-variation start command to be transmitted to the effect control device 124. This re-variation start command is transmitted to the performance control device 124 in the performance control output process.

Step S2098: The main control CPU72 executes processing for turning off the variable time measurement temporary stop flag stored in the RAM76. As a result, the situation in which the measurement of the fluctuation time is temporarily stopped is canceled.
Then, when the above procedure is finished, the main control CPU 72 sets the special symbol changing process (step S3000 or step S3900) to the next jump destination, and returns to the special symbol game process.

  On the other hand, when it cannot be confirmed in the previous step S2090 that the variable time measurement temporary stop flag is ON (No), the main control CPU72 next executes step S2100.

  Step S2100: The main control CPU72 confirms whether or not the special symbol working memory number (first special symbol working memory number or second special symbol working memory number) of the control target remains (greater than 0). To do. This confirmation can be performed by referring to the value of the working memory number counter stored in the RAM 76. When the number of working memories of the target symbol is 0 (No), the main control CPU72 proceeds to step S2150.

  Step S2150: The main control CPU72 confirms whether or not the other special symbol working memory number is 0. That is, if the control target is the first special symbol, whether the second special symbol working memory number is 0 is confirmed, and if the control target is the second special symbol, the first special symbol working memory Check if the number is zero. This confirmation can also be performed by referring to the value of the special symbol working memory number counter. Then, when the other special symbol operation memory number is 0 (Yes), the main control CPU72 executes the demo setting process of step S2500.

  Step S2500: In this processing, the main control CPU72 confirms whether or not there is a winning for a predetermined time in any of the starting winning openings, and when it is confirmed that there is no winning for a predetermined time, a command for demonstration effect is generated. .. The demonstration effect command is output to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process. When the demo setting process is executed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the first special symbol game process (FIG. 14) or the second special symbol game process (FIG. 15). In addition, at the time of return, it returns to the end address of each special symbol game process (the same applies hereafter).

  On the other hand, if the other special symbol working memory number is not 0 (step S2150: No), the main control CPU72 does not execute the demo setting process, the first special symbol game process (FIG. 14) or the second special symbol game. The process returns to the process (FIG. 15).

  On the other hand, if the value of the special symbol working memory number counter to be controlled is greater than 0 (step S2100: Yes), the main control CPU72 next executes step S2160.

  Step S2160: The main control CPU72 confirms whether or not the value (01H) is set to the big hit flag or the small hit flag for the other special symbol. The big hit flag or the small hit flag is a flag which is set when the big hit or the small hit is hit by the internal lottery, and is reset at the end of the big hit game. Therefore, the confirmation in this process is a confirmation whether the result of the internal lottery for the other special symbol is a big hit or a small hit. When the variable display of the other special symbol is not executed, the big hit flag or the small hit flag is not set, so the result of the confirmation is necessarily No. Further, although the determination content is “big hit or small hit” here, it may be only “big hit” or “small hit”.

  In this process, when the value (01H) is set to the big hit flag or the small hit flag relating to the other special symbol (Yes), the main control CPU72 next executes step S2202. On the other hand, when the value (01H) is not set in the big hit flag or the small hit flag relating to the other special symbol, that is, when the value is "00H" (No), the main control CPU72 then proceeds to step S2200. To execute.

  Step S2200: The main control CPU72 executes a special symbol storage area shift process. In this process, the main control CPU72 reads the random number for lottery stored in the random number storage area of the RAM76 (big hit determination random number, big hit symbol random number), which corresponds to the special symbol to be controlled. At this time, if the random numbers are stored in two or more sections, the main control CPU 72 sequentially reads the random numbers from the first section and erases (consumes) them, and then moves (shifts) the remaining random numbers one by one to the previous section. ) Let me. The read random number is stored in another temporary storage area, for example. Each random number stored in the temporary storage area is used for internal lottery in the next big hit determination process. Further, in this process, the main control CPU72 subtracts one value of the working memory number counter (which is the control target of the first special symbol or the second special symbol) stored in the RAM76, and the value after the subtraction Is set to the "number of working memories at the start of fluctuation". Thereby, in the above-mentioned display output management process, the display mode of the number of memories is changed (decreased by 1) for the one to be controlled among the first special symbol working memory lamp 34a or the second special symbol working memory lamp 35a. .. When the procedure up to this point is completed, the main control CPU72 next executes step S2300.

  Step S2300: The main control CPU72 executes a big hit determination process (internal lottery). In this processing, the main control CPU72 first sets the range of the big hit value, and determines whether or not the read random number value (the big hit determination random number value) is included in this range (first lottery execution means, second Lottery execution means). The range of the jackpot value set at this time is different between the low-probability state and the high-probability state (when the probability varying function is activated), and the range of the jackpot value is expanded about 10 times in the high-probability state than in the low-probability state. It Then, if the random number value read at this time is within the range of the jackpot value, the main control CPU72 sets "01H" to the jackpot flag.

Step S2302: The main control CPU72 executes a small hit determination process (internal lottery).
When the above big hit flag is not set, the main control CPU72 next sets a range of small hit values and determines whether or not the read random number value is included in this range (lottery execution means). The "small hit" here is something other than the non-win (miss), but has a different property from the "big hit". That is, the "big hit" generates an opportunity (a game turning point) to shift to the "high probability state" or "time reduction state", but the "small hit" does not generate such an opportunity. However, the “small hit” is positioned as a condition satisfying the condition for operating the first variable winning device 30, like the “big hit”. If the read random number value is within the range of the small hit value, the main control CPU72 sets "01H" to the small hit flag. In the present embodiment, the winning probability of the small hit is "1/3", and the small hit corresponds to once every three fluctuations.

  In the present embodiment, the range of the big hit value and the small hit value is preliminarily defined on the program as the hit range other than the non-winning prize (means for defining other than non-winning prize). The small hit determination table may be written in the ROM 74 respectively, and the small hit determination table may be read out and compared with the random number value to make the big hit determination.

  Step S2202: The main control CPU72 executes a special symbol storage area shift process. In this process, the same process as step S2200 described above is performed, and thus the description thereof is omitted. The main control CPU72 then executes step S2404.

  On the other hand, when the small hit determination process ends (step S2302), the main control CPU72 next executes step S2400.

  Step S2400: The main control CPU72 determines whether or not the value (01H) is set to the big hit flag in the previous big hit determination processing. If the value (01H) is not set in the big hit flag (No), the main control CPU72 proceeds to step S2402, and if the value (01H) is set in the big hit flag (Yes), the main control CPU72 determines the next. Then, step S2410 is executed.

  Step S2402: The main control CPU72 determines whether or not the value (01H) is set to the small hit flag in the previous small hit determination process. If the value (01H) is not set in the small hit flag (No), the main control CPU72 proceeds to step S2404. The main control CPU 72 may determine whether the big hit (for example, 01H is set) or the small hit (for example, 0AH is set) according to the value of the common hit flag without separately preparing the big hit flag and the small hit flag.

  Step S2404: The main control CPU72 executes the stop symbol determination process at the time of disengagement. In this processing, the main control CPU72 sets the stop symbol number data at the time of the disengagement by the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35. Further, the main control CPU72 generates a stop symbol command and a lottery result command (at the time of failure) to be transmitted to the effect control device 124. These commands are transmitted to the performance control device 124 in the performance control output processing.

  In this embodiment, since the 7-segment LED is used for the first special symbol display device 34 and the second special symbol display device 35, for example, the display mode of the stop symbol at the time of detachment is always one segment (center It is possible to fix the stop symbol number data to one value (for example, 64H) by keeping only the lighted display of the bar "-"). In this case, the storage capacity used on the program can be reduced, the processing load on the main control CPU 72 can be reduced, and the processing speed can be improved.

  Step S2405: Next, the main control CPU72 executes the off-time variation pattern determination processing. In this process, the main control CPU72 determines the variation pattern number at the time of the detachment of the special symbol to be controlled (variation pattern determining means). The variation pattern number is used to distinguish the type (pattern) of variation display of the special symbol to be controlled and to correspond to the variation time required for the variation display. Since the fluctuation time at the time of departure differs depending on whether the above-mentioned "high probability state" or "time reduction state", the main control CPU72 loads the game state flag in this process, and the current state is Check whether it is "high probability state" or "time reduction state". For example, in the "time shortened state", the fluctuation time at the time of deviation is set to a shortened time (for example, about 4 to 12 seconds).

  Also, even if the reach variation is not performed even if it is not in the "time reduction state", the variation time at the time of deviation is based on, for example, the "variation display start operation memory number (0 to 3)" set in step S2200. It may be shortened. However, when the special variation pattern is selected, the variation time does not change depending on the number of memories. The stop display time of the symbol at the time of deviation is constant (for example, about 0.5 seconds) regardless of the variation pattern. The main control CPU72 sets the value of the determined fluctuation time (at the time of deviation) to the fluctuation timer, and sets the value of the stop display time at the time of deviation to the stop symbol display timer.

  In the present embodiment, as a result of the internal lottery based on the first special symbol, in the case of hitting the non-winning, for example, a "reach effect" is generated on the performance and is lost, or a "reach effect" is not generated and is off. It is supposed to be controlled. Then, in the "out-of-shift variation pattern selection table", variation patterns corresponding to a plurality of types of effects, for example, "non-reach effect" and "reach effect" are defined in advance. One of the fluctuation patterns will be selected. The reach effect includes various reach effects such as normal reach effect, long reach effect, and super reach effect. Further, as a result of the internal lottery based on the second special symbol, if the result is non-winning, for example, the control is performed without causing the "reach effect" to occur on the effect.

[Example of variation pattern selection table at the time of detachment]
FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of a deviation variation selection table (low probability non-time shortened state).
This selection table is a table (variation pattern defining means) that is used when the player is out of the low probability non-time shortened state (when it is not won). Further, this selection table has a structure in which, for example, a "comparison value" and a "variation pattern number" are set in order from the first address and stored for each one byte. The “comparison value” includes, for example, eight stepwise different values “101”, “201”, “211”, “221”, “231”, “241”, “251”, “255 (FFH)”. It is provided, and “1” to “8” of “variation pattern number” are assigned to each “comparison value”.

  The variation pattern numbers “1” to “5” correspond to the variation patterns that are out of reach without performing the reach effect, and the variation pattern numbers “6” to “8” are variation patterns that are out of reach after the reach. It corresponds. The fluctuation pattern selection table may have different table contents depending on the number of working memories at the start of fluctuation (the same applies hereinafter).

  Here, the non-reach fluctuation pattern and the reach fluctuation pattern differ greatly in the length of the fluctuation time that is set. That is, the "non-reach fluctuation pattern" basically corresponds to a short fluctuation time (for example, about 3.0 seconds to 12.0 seconds depending on the number of working memories), whereas the "reach fluctuation pattern" is It corresponds to a fluctuation time that is twice as long as that (for example, about 30 seconds to 150 seconds).

  Then, the main control CPU72 sequentially compares the obtained variation pattern determination random number value with the "comparison value" in the variation pattern selection table, and if the random number value is equal to or less than the comparison value, the comparison value is set to the comparison value. The corresponding variation pattern number is selected (variation pattern determining means). For example, if the fluctuation pattern determination random number value at that time is “190”, the main control CPU 72 determines that the random number value exceeds the comparison value when compared with the first comparison value “101”. 201” and the random number value. In this case, since the random number value is less than or equal to the comparison value, the main control CPU72 selects "2" as the corresponding fluctuation pattern number.

FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an example of a variation pattern selection table at loss (low probability time shortened state).
This selection table is a table (variation pattern defining means) that is used when the player is out of the low probability time shortened state (when it is not won). Further, this selection table has a structure in which, for example, a "comparison value" and a "variation pattern number" are set in order from the first address and stored for each one byte. The “comparison value” includes, for example, eight stepwise different values “101”, “201”, “211”, “221”, “231”, “241”, “251”, “255 (FFH)”. The “variation pattern number” of “21” to “28” is assigned to each “comparison value”.

  The fluctuation pattern numbers “21” to “28” correspond to fluctuation patterns that are out of reach without performing the reach effect. The variation time of the variation pattern numbers "21" to "28" is set to about 10 seconds if the variation of the first special symbol is set to about 10 minutes if the variation of the second special symbol. It should be noted that the first special symbol and the second special symbol may be different from each other in the out-of-shift variation pattern selection table (low probability time reduction state) and the variation pattern number.

  The main control CPU 72 sequentially compares the obtained variation pattern determination random number value with the “comparison value” in the variation pattern selection table, and if the random number value is less than or equal to the comparison value, it corresponds to the comparison value. A variation pattern number is selected (variation pattern determining means). For example, if the fluctuation pattern determination random number value at that time is “190”, the main control CPU 72 determines that the random number value exceeds the comparison value when compared with the first comparison value “101”. 201” and the random number value. In this case, since the random number value is less than or equal to the comparison value, the main control CPU72 selects "22" as the corresponding fluctuation pattern number.

FIG. 20 is a diagram showing an example of a variation pattern selection table at the time of loss (high-probability non-time shortened state).
This selection table is a table (variation pattern defining means) that is used when the player is out of the high probability non-time shortened state (when it is not won). Further, this selection table has a structure in which, for example, a "comparison value" and a "variation pattern number" are set in order from the first address and stored for each one byte. The “comparison value” includes, for example, eight stepwise different values “101”, “201”, “211”, “221”, “231”, “241”, “251”, “255 (FFH)”. The “variation pattern number” of “41” to “48” is assigned to each “comparison value”.

  The fluctuation pattern numbers “41” to “48” correspond to fluctuation patterns that are out of reach without the reach effect. The variation time of the variation pattern numbers "41" to "48" is set to about 3 minutes if the variation of the first special symbol is set to about 2 seconds if the variation of the second special symbol. The first special symbol and the second special symbol may be different from each other in the out-of-shift variation pattern selection table (high-probability non-time shortened state) and the variation pattern number.

  The main control CPU 72 sequentially compares the obtained variation pattern determination random number value with the “comparison value” in the variation pattern selection table, and if the random number value is less than or equal to the comparison value, it corresponds to the comparison value. A variation pattern number is selected (variation pattern determining means). For example, if the fluctuation pattern determination random number value at that time is “190”, the main control CPU 72 determines that the random number value exceeds the comparison value when compared with the first comparison value “101”. 201” and the random number value. In this case, since the random number value is less than or equal to the comparison value, the main control CPU72 selects "42" as the corresponding fluctuation pattern number.

[Refer to Fig. 17: Special symbol fluctuation preprocessing]
Steps S2404 and S2405 described above are the control procedure when the jackpot determination result is out of alignment (in the case of non-win), but when the determination result is a jackpot (step S2400: Yes) or a small hit (step S2402: Yes), The main control CPU 72 executes the following procedure. First, the case of a big hit will be described.

  Step S2410: The main control CPU72 executes a big hit stop symbol determination process (winning type determination means). In this process, the main control CPU72, based on the big hit symbol random number, for each special symbol (the first special symbol or the second special symbol) determines the type of the winning symbol of this time (big hit stop symbol number). The relationship between the jackpot random number value and the type of winning symbol is defined in advance in the special symbol determination data table (winning type defining means). Therefore, the main control CPU72 can refer to the big hit stop symbol selection table in the big hit stop symbol determination process, and determine the type of winning symbol based on the big hit symbol random number from the stored contents.

[Winning pattern at the time of a big hit]
In the present embodiment, there are roughly three types of winning symbols that are selectively determined at the time of a big hit. The three types of breakdowns are "9 round symbol 1", "9 round symbol 2" and "16 round symbol". Each winning symbol of the three types of winning symbols may further include a plurality of winning symbols. For example, in the case of "9 round symbol 1", "9 round symbol 1a", "9 round symbol 1b", "9 round symbol 1c", and so on.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the selection ratio of the winning symbols selected during the jackpot of the internal lottery corresponding to each of the first special symbol and the second special symbol is different. Therefore, the main control CPU72 distinguishes the winning symbol to be selected depending on whether the result of the big hit this time corresponds to the first special symbol or the second special symbol.

[1st special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table]
FIG. 21 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a first special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table. The main control CPU72, when the result of this big hit corresponds to the first special symbol, determines the type of winning symbol by referring to the first special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table (winning type defining means).

  In the first special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, the distribution value for each winning symbol is shown in the left column, and each distribution value "50", "25", "25" has a denominator of 100. It corresponds to the ratio in the case. In the second column from the left, "9 round symbol 1", "9 round symbol 2" and "16 round symbol" corresponding to each distribution value are shown. That is, at the time of a big hit corresponding to the first special symbol, the ratio of selecting "9 round symbol 1" is 50/100 (=50%), and the ratio of selecting "9 round symbol 2" is 100 minutes. 25 (=25%), and the ratio of selecting “16 round symbols” is 25/100 (=25%). The size of each distribution value corresponds to the selection ratio for each winning symbol using a jackpot symbol random number.

  In any case, if the result of the big hit this time corresponds to the first special symbol, the main control CPU72 performs a selection lottery based on the big hit symbol random number, the selection ratio shown in the first special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table The winning symbol is selectively determined with. Further, in the first special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, as shown in the third column from the left, for example, 2 bytes of command data is defined as the stop symbol command at the time of winning. The stop symbol command is described by, for example, a combination of MODE value-EVENT value, and the MODE value “B1H” of the upper byte among them is that the winning symbol of this time is selected at the time of the big hit of the first special symbol. Is represented. In addition, the EVENT values “01H”, “02H”, and “03H” of the lower byte represent the type of the corresponding winning symbol in the selection table. Therefore, for example, the result of the big hit this time corresponds to the first special symbol, and when "9 round symbol 1" is selected as the winning symbol, the stop symbol command at the time of winning is described as "B1H01H". It will be.

  As described above, when the main control CPU 72 selects the winning symbol from the first special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, it generates the stop symbol command at that time. The generated stop symbol command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process described above, for example. Further, the main control CPU72 determines the big hit stop symbol number for the first special symbol based on the selected winning symbol.

[Time saving]
In the right column of the first special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, the value of the number of times saved (maximum number of times) given after the end of the big hit game is shown.
In the present embodiment, when the “9 round symbol 1”, the “9 round symbol 2” or the “16 round symbol” is applied, the time saving number is given 100 times. However, in the case of corresponding to "9 round symbol 2" or "16 round symbol", if the game ball passes through the probability variation area during the big hit game, the time saving number is not given (it is given 0 times). ..

[2nd special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table]
FIG. 22 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table. When the result of the big hit this time corresponds to the second special symbol, the main control CPU 72 determines the type of the winning symbol by referring to the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table (winning type defining means).

  Also in the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, the distribution value for each winning symbol is shown in the left column, and each distribution value “45”, “55” is when the denominator is 100. Equivalent to a percentage. Similarly, in the second column from the left, "9 round symbol 1", "9 round symbol 2", and "16 round symbol" corresponding to the distribution value are shown. That is, at the time of a big hit corresponding to the second special symbol, the ratio of selecting “9 round symbol 2” is 45/100 (=45%), and the ratio of selecting “16 round symbol” is 100. 55 minutes (=55%). In the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, the distribution value for "9 round symbol 1" is not set.

  When the result of this big hit corresponds to the second special symbol, the main control CPU72 performs a selection lottery based on the big hit symbol random number, and selects the winning symbol at the selection ratio shown in the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table. To make a decision. Similarly, in the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, as shown in the third column from the left, for example, 2-byte command data is defined as the stop symbol command at the time of winning. Here as well, the stop symbol command is described by the combination of the MODE value and the EVENT value described above, and the MODE value “B2H” of the high-order byte among them is the symbol selected when the winning symbol of this time is the big hit of the second special symbol. It means that. In addition, the EVENT values “02H” and “03H” of the lower byte represent the type of the corresponding winning symbol in the selection table. Therefore, for example, the result of the big hit this time corresponds to the second special symbol, and when "16 round symbol" is selected as the winning symbol, the stop symbol command is described as "B2H03H".

  As described above, when the main control CPU 72 selects the winning symbol from the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, it generates the stop symbol command at that time. The generated stop symbol command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process described above, for example. Further, the main control CPU72 determines the big hit stop symbol number for the second special symbol based on the selected winning symbol. The main control CPU 72 also generates a stop symbol command at the time of a small hit as in the case of a big hit.

[Time saving]
In the right column of the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, the value of the number of times saved (maximum number of times) given after the end of the big hit game is shown.
In the present embodiment, when the “9 round symbol 2” or the “16 round symbol” is applied, the number of time saving is 100 times. However, in the case of corresponding to "9 round symbol 2" or "16 round symbol", if the game ball passes through the probability variation area during the big hit game, the time saving number is not given (it is given 0 times). ..

  The selection ratio of the winning symbols is different between the first special symbol and the second special symbol as described above, for example, for the following reason. That is, when shifting to the "time shortening state", the variable start winning device 28 operates more frequently than in the normal time (when the time shortening function is not operated), and therefore, rather than the working memory for the first special symbol. , The working memory for the second special symbol is more likely to be accumulated. In this case, if the selection ratio of the "16 round symbol" for the second special symbol is increased, it becomes easier to win the "16 round symbol" than in the normal time, and the advantage that the player's profit can be increased accordingly There is.

[Refer to Fig. 17: Special symbol fluctuation preprocessing]
Step S2412: Next, the main control CPU72 executes a big hit time variation pattern determination process. In this process, the main control CPU72 determines the variation pattern (variation time and stop display time) of the first special symbol or the second special symbol based on the variation pattern determination random number shifted in step S2200. Further, the main control CPU72 sets the value of the determined fluctuation time in the fluctuation timer, and also sets the value of the stop display time in the stop symbol display timer. In general, in the case of a jackpot reach variation, a variation time longer than that at the time of the outfall is determined.

  In the present embodiment, when the internal lottery results in a 9-round jackpot or a 16-round jackpot, for example, a "reach effect" is generated in the effect to perform a big hit control. In the “big hit variation pattern selection table”, variation patterns corresponding to a plurality of types of “reach effects” are defined, and when one of 9 round jackpot or 16 round jackpot is hit, one of them is selected. The variation pattern will be selected. The reach effect includes various reach effects such as normal reach effect, long reach effect, and super reach effect. Further, at the time of winning when the time shortening function is operating, even if a variation pattern having a short variation time (a variation pattern not performing reach production) is selected instead of selecting a variation pattern having a long variation time, Good.

[Example of big hit variation pattern selection table]
FIG. 23 is a diagram showing an example of the big hit variation pattern selection table (low probability non-time shortened state).
This selection table is a table used when winning in a low probability non-time reduction state (fluctuation pattern defining means). In the present embodiment, the variation patterns are not distinguished between the 9-round jackpot and the 16-round jackpot, but a dedicated variation pattern selection table may be used for each jackpot (hereinafter the same). Further, this selection table has a structure in which, for example, a "comparison value" and a "variation pattern number" are set in order from the first address and stored for each one byte. The “comparison value” includes, for example, eight stepwise different values “101”, “201”, “211”, “221”, “231”, “241”, “251”, “255 (FFH)”. The "variation pattern number" of "61" to "68" is assigned to each "comparison value".

  The fluctuation pattern numbers “61” to “68” all correspond to the fluctuation patterns that are hit when the reach effect is performed.

  The main control CPU 72 sequentially compares the obtained variation pattern determination random number value with the “comparison value” in the variation pattern selection table, and if the random number value is less than or equal to the comparison value, it corresponds to the comparison value. A variation pattern number is selected (variation pattern determining means). For example, if the fluctuation pattern determination random number value at that time is “190”, the main control CPU 72 determines that the random number value exceeds the comparison value when compared with the first comparison value “101”. 201” and the random number value. In this case, since the random number value is less than or equal to the comparison value, the main control CPU72 selects "62" as the corresponding fluctuation pattern number.

FIG. 24 is a diagram showing an example of a big hit variation pattern selection table (low probability time reduction state).
This selection table is a table used at the time of winning in a low probability time reduction state (fluctuation pattern defining means). Further, this selection table has a structure in which, for example, a "comparison value" and a "variation pattern number" are set in order from the first address and stored for each one byte. The “comparison value” includes, for example, eight stepwise different values “101”, “201”, “211”, “221”, “231”, “241”, “251”, “255 (FFH)”. The “variation pattern numbers” “81” to “88” are assigned to the respective “comparison values”.

  The fluctuation pattern numbers “81” to “88” all correspond to the fluctuation patterns that are hit without the reach effect. The fluctuation time of the fluctuation pattern numbers “81” to “88” is set to about 10 seconds for both the fluctuation of the first special symbol and the fluctuation of the second special symbol. The first special symbol and the second special symbol may be different in the big hit time variation pattern selection table (low probability time reduction state) and variation pattern numbers. Further, the fluctuation pattern numbers “81” to “88” may be fluctuation patterns in which the reach effect is performed.

  The main control CPU 72 sequentially compares the obtained variation pattern determination random number value with the “comparison value” in the variation pattern selection table, and if the random number value is less than or equal to the comparison value, it corresponds to the comparison value. A variation pattern number is selected (variation pattern determining means). For example, if the fluctuation pattern determination random number value at that time is “190”, the main control CPU 72 determines that the random number value exceeds the comparison value when compared with the first comparison value “101”. 201” and the random number value. In this case, since the random number value is less than or equal to the comparison value, the main control CPU72 selects "82" as the corresponding fluctuation pattern number.

FIG. 25 is a diagram showing an example of a big hit variation pattern selection table (high-probability non-time shortened state).
This selection table is a table used at the time of winning in the high probability non-time reduction state (fluctuation pattern defining means). Further, this selection table has a structure in which, for example, a "comparison value" and a "variation pattern number" are set in order from the first address and stored for each one byte. The “comparison value” includes, for example, eight stepwise different values “101”, “201”, “211”, “221”, “231”, “241”, “251”, “255 (FFH)”. The “variation pattern numbers” “101” to “108” are assigned to the respective “comparison values”.

  The fluctuation pattern numbers “101” to “108” all correspond to the fluctuation patterns that are hit without the reach effect. The fluctuation time of the fluctuation pattern numbers “101” to “108” is set to about 10 seconds for both the fluctuation of the first special symbol and the fluctuation of the second special symbol. The first special symbol and the second special symbol may be different in the big hit time variation pattern selection table (high-probability non-time reduction state) and variation pattern numbers. Further, the fluctuation pattern numbers “101” to “108” may be fluctuation patterns in which the reach effect is performed.

  The main control CPU 72 sequentially compares the obtained variation pattern determination random number value with the “comparison value” in the variation pattern selection table, and if the random number value is less than or equal to the comparison value, it corresponds to the comparison value. A variation pattern number is selected (variation pattern determining means). For example, if the fluctuation pattern determination random number value at that time is “190”, the main control CPU 72 determines that the random number value exceeds the comparison value when compared with the first comparison value “101”. 201” and the random number value. In this case, since the random number value is less than or equal to the comparison value, the main control CPU72 selects "102" as the corresponding fluctuation pattern number.

[Refer to Fig. 17: Special symbol fluctuation preprocessing]
Step S2414: Next, the main control CPU72 executes a big hit other setting process. In this process, the main control CPU72, the type of winning symbol determined in the previous step S2410 (stop symbol number at the time of big hit) is either "9 round symbol 1", "9 round symbol 2" or "16 round symbol" In the case, the main control CPU72 sets the value (01H) of the time reduction function operation flag as the game state flag in the flag area of the RAM 76 (time reduction state transition means, time reduction function activation means, advantageous game state transition means).

  Further, in the process of step S2414, the main control CPU72 determines the display mode of the stop symbol (big hit symbol) by the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35 based on the big hit stop symbol number. In addition, the main control CPU72 generates a lottery result command (at the time of big hit) together with the above stop symbol command (at the time of big hit). These stop symbol command and lottery result command are also transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process.

Next, the processing at the time of a small hit will be described.
Step S2407: The main control CPU72 executes a small hit stop symbol determination process. In this processing, the main control CPU72 determines the type of winning symbol at the time of small hit (small hitting stop symbol number) based on the big hit symbol random number. Here, similarly, the relationship between the big hit symbol random number value and the type of the winning symbol at the time of the small hit is defined in advance in the special symbol selection table at the time of the small hit (the winning type defining means). In the present embodiment, in order to reduce the load on the main control CPU 72, the big hit symbol random number is used to determine the winning symbol at the time of the small hit, but a dedicated random number may be used separately.

[Winning pattern when small hit]
In the present embodiment, the winning symbol at the time of the small hit is only one type of "one-time open small hit symbol". However, other than this, for example, another type such as a "twice open small hit pattern" or a "three open small hit pattern" may be prepared. As described above, the “small hit” as a result of the internal lottery does not trigger the subsequent state to change to the “high-probability state” or the “time reduction state”, so it is essential for this type of pachinko machine. It is possible to provide a "single opening small hit pattern" without being bound by the regulation of "two rounds (two opening) or more".

  Step S2408: Next, the main control CPU72 executes a small hitting variation pattern determination process. In this process, the main control CPU72 determines the variation pattern (variation time and stop display time) of the first special symbol or the second special symbol based on the variation pattern determination random number shifted in step S2200 (variation pattern selection means). ). Further, the main control CPU72 sets the value of the determined fluctuation time in the fluctuation timer, and sets the value of the stop display time in the stop symbol display timer. In the present embodiment, the reach variation pattern can be selected in the case of a small hit, or the variation pattern equivalent to that in the normal deviation can be selected.

  Step S2409: Next, the main control CPU72 executes a small hit other setting process. In this process, the main control CPU72 determines the display mode of the stop symbol (small hit symbol) by the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35 based on the small hit stop symbol number. In addition, the main control CPU72 generates a stop symbol command and a lottery result command (during small hit) to be transmitted to the effect control device 124. These stop symbol command and lottery result command are also transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process.

  Step S2415: Next, the main control CPU72 executes a special symbol variation start process. In this processing, the main control CPU72 selects the fluctuation pattern data based on the fluctuation pattern number (at the time of falling/at the time of hitting). In addition, the main control CPU72 sets the variation start flag of the special symbol in the flag area of the RAM76. Then, the main control CPU72 generates a variation start command to be transmitted to the effect control device 124. This variation start command is also transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output processing described above. When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 sets the special symbol changing process (step S3000 or step S3900) to the next jump destination, and returns to the special symbol game process.

[FIG. 14, FIG. 15: Processing during special symbol fluctuation]
In the special symbol variation process (step S3000 or step S3900), the main control CPU72 loads the value of the variation timer set as described above from the register to the timer counter, and then the passage of time (the number of clock pulse counts). Or the value of the timer counter is decremented according to the value of the interrupt counter). Then, the main control CPU72 controls the variable display of the special symbol (first special symbol or second special symbol) to be controlled until the value becomes 0 while referring to the value of the timer counter. Then, when the value of the timer counter becomes 0, the main control CPU72 sets the special symbol stop displaying process (step S4000 or step S4900) to the next jump destination.

  In addition, in this process, a determination process as to whether or not to activate the skip function is also performed, and in the big hit determination or the small hit determination of the previous special symbol variation preprocessing, one of the special symbols is changing out of alignment, and, When it is determined that the other special symbol corresponds to the big hit or the small hit, the skip function is activated for the one special symbol. The operation of this skip function forcibly ends the variable display of one special symbol.

[FIG. 14, FIG. 15: Processing during special symbol stop display]
In the special symbol stop display process (step S4000 or step S4900), the main control CPU72 is a special symbol based on the stop symbol determined in the stop symbol determination process (step S2092, step S2404, step S2407, step S2410 in FIG. 17) Control the stop display of. In addition, the main control CPU72 generates a symbol stop command to be transmitted to the effect control device 124. The symbol stop command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process described above. When the stop symbol is displayed for a predetermined time in the special symbol stop displaying process, the main control CPU 72 erases the symbol changing flag.

  Here, the execution conditions of the above-described big hit determination process (step S2300) and small hit determination process (step S2302) will be briefly described.

[Internal lottery correspondence table]
FIG. 26 is a diagram showing a correspondence table for internal lottery.
Corresponding special symbol in the internal lottery correspondence table, when executing the big hit lottery (big hit determination process) or the small hit lottery (small hit determination process) of the internal lottery, based on the state of the other special symbol, execute It is shown that it is decided whether or not to do.

  If the other special symbol is "big hit variation (during variation display when big hit flag is 01H)", in the internal lottery of the special symbol, big hit lottery and small hit lottery are not executed. Therefore, the result of the internal lottery of the special symbol corresponds to “out”.

  Similarly, when the other special symbol is "small win variation (during variation display when the small hit flag is 01H)", in the internal lottery of the special symbol, the big win lottery and the small win lottery are Not executed Therefore, the result of the internal lottery of the special symbol corresponds to “out”. In addition, in the case of “small win variation (during variation display when the small hit flag is 01H)”, a method of executing a big win lottery and a small win lottery may be adopted.

  On the other hand, if the other special symbol is “out of variation (during variation display when big hit flag and small hit flag is 00H)”, in the internal lottery of the special symbol, big hit lottery is first executed, If it does not correspond to the big hit, the small hit lottery is executed. Therefore, the result of the internal lottery of the special symbol corresponds to any one of "big hit", "small hit", and "outside hit". It should be noted that the deviation change includes waiting for a change and a stop display.

  In this way, when one special symbol is "in big jackpot change" or "small jackpot change", the big bonus lottery or small jackpot lottery will not be executed in the other special symbol, and as a result, jackpot game or The small hit game is not executed. That is, when one of the special symbols is "big hit changing" or "small hit changing", the other special symbol is substantially a big hit or a small hit non-lottery state.

[Special symbol storage area shift processing]
FIG. 27 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the special symbol storage area shift process. The contents of the special symbol storage area shift process can be made common in the process of the first special symbol and the process of the second special symbol. However, when the following procedure is applied to the first special symbol, the control target is the first special symbol, and when it is applied to the second special symbol, the control target is the second special symbol. Hereinafter, each procedure will be described.

  Step S2210: First, the main control CPU72 shifts the random number storage area of the RAM76 corresponding to the special symbol to be controlled. The specific contents of the processing are as described above in the special symbol variation preprocessing.

  Step S2212: Further, the main control CPU72 subtracts the value of the working memory counter for the special symbol to be controlled. For example, if the special symbol to be controlled is the first special symbol, the main control CPU 72 subtracts the value of the working memory counter corresponding to the first special symbol (-1), and the special symbol to be controlled is the second special symbol. If so, the main control CPU72 subtracts the value of the working memory counter corresponding to the second special symbol (-1).

  Step S2214: Next, the main control CPU72, from the value of the working memory counter after the subtraction, for the special symbol to be controlled, set the "variation start time working memory number".

  Step S2216: Also, the main control CPU72 sets the effect command when the number of working memories is reduced for the special symbol to be controlled. The effect command set here is also generated as a command having a length of one word, but its configuration is in contrast to the above-described "effect command when the number of working memories increases". That is, the effect command when the number of operating memories decreases is the value of the lower byte (for example, "00H" to "03H") that indicates the number of operating memories after the reduction, with respect to the preceding value of the upper byte that indicates the command type (for example, "BBH"). )) is added, and the value of the lower byte is further added (logical sum) with an additional value (for example, “10H”) meaning “reduction in the number of working memory due to consumption”. Therefore, for the lower byte, the second place becomes "1" by logically adding the addition value "10H", and this value represents "the result (change information) due to the decrease in the number of working memories". Will be things. That is, if the lower byte of the command is "13H", it means that the number of working memories up to the previous time "4" (command notation is "14H") is decreased by 1, and the number of working memories this time is "3" (command The notation represents "13H"). Similarly, if the lower byte is "12H" to "10H", it is the result of decreasing the number of working memories "3" to "1" (command notation is "13H" to "11H") up to the previous time by one. , The number of working memories this time has become “2” to “0” (command notation is “12H” to “10H”). The preceding value “BBH” is a value indicating that the effect command this time is the operation memory number command for the first special symbol. If the control target is the second special symbol, the preceding value is a value (for example, "BCH") indicating that it is a working memory number command for the second special symbol.

Step S2218: Then, the main control CPU72 executes effect command output processing. This process is for transmitting to the effect control device 124 the operation memory number reduction effect command for the special symbol to be controlled set in the previous step S2216 (memory number notifying means).
After finishing the above procedure, the main control CPU72 returns to the special symbol variation preprocessing (FIG. 17).

  FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of the special symbol changing process. Hereinafter, each procedure will be described. The contents of the special symbol variation process listed below can be common in the first special symbol game process (FIG. 14) and the second special symbol game process (FIG. 15). That is, when the following procedure is applied to the first special symbol game process, the control target is the first special symbol, and when the second special symbol game process is applied, the control target is the second special symbol.

  Step S3100: The main control CPU72 subtracts the value of the variation timer for the special symbol to be controlled (decrements the value corresponding to the interrupt cycle).

  Step S3200: Then, the main control CPU72 determines whether or not the stop display time has ended based on the value of the fluctuation timer subtracted this time. Specifically, if the value of the fluctuation timer is not 0 or less, the main control CPU72 determines that the fluctuation display time has not ended (No). In this case, the main control CPU72 returns to the special symbol game process, and also jumps from the execution selection process (step S1000b in FIG. 14 or step S1900b in FIG. 15) in the next interrupt cycle to process during special symbol variation display. Is repeatedly executed.

  On the other hand, if the value of the fluctuation timer is 0 or less, the main control CPU72 determines that the fluctuation display time has ended (Yes). In this case, the main control CPU72 next executes step S3300.

  Step S3300: The main control CPU72 confirms whether or not the value (01H) is set in the big hit flag for the special symbol to be controlled. When the value (01H) is set in the big hit flag (Yes), the main control CPU72 next executes step S3400. On the other hand, if the value (01H) is not set to the big hit flag (No), the main control CPU72 returns to the first special symbol game process (FIG. 14) or the second special symbol game process (FIG. 15).

  Step S3400: The main control CPU72 confirms whether or not the other special symbol is being variably displayed. This confirmation process, as the variation display at the time of a big hit of the target special symbol is completed, it is necessary to activate the skip function for the other special symbol (force the termination of the other variation). It is executed to confirm whether or not. When it is confirmed that the other special symbol is being variably displayed (Yes), it is necessary to activate the skip function for the other special symbol, and the main control CPU72 next executes step S3500. On the other hand, when it is not possible to confirm that the other special symbol is being variably displayed (No), the other special symbol is not variably displayed and it is not necessary to operate the skip function, so that the main control CPU 72 executes the next step. S3600 is executed.

  Step S3500: The main control CPU72 executes the process of operating the skip function for the other special symbol. That is, the main control CPU72 executes a process of ending the variable display for the other special symbol. Specifically, the main control CPU72 sets 0 to the value of the fluctuation timer for the other special symbol.

  Step S3600: The main control CPU72 executes a special symbol variation end process. In this process, as the variable display of the special symbol to be controlled ends, the value (01H) is set to the symbol stop displaying flag of the special symbol in the flag area of the RAM 76. Further, the main control CPU72 sets the special symbol stop displaying process (step S4000 or step S4900) to the next jump destination. When the above procedure is completed, the process returns to the first special symbol game process (FIG. 14) or the second special symbol game process (FIG. 15).

Here, the big hit lottery probability and the small hit lottery probability of the gaming machine of the present embodiment are set as follows.
For example, the jackpot probability when the gaming state is the normal state (the probability of winning the special symbol lottery is low) is set to 1/319. Further, the jackpot probability when the gaming state is in an advantageous state (the probability of winning the special symbol lottery is high) is set to 1/100. Further, the small hit probability is defined according to the type of special symbol regardless of the game state, because there is no small hit in the first special symbol, there is no small hit probability. On the other hand, the small hit probability of the second special symbol is set to 1/1. For this reason, the second special symbol lottery is more likely to be a small hit than the first special symbol lottery (winning type defining means).

[Skip function and variable time measurement pause function]
Hereinafter, the skip function to forcibly stop the variable display in the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35, and temporarily stop the measurement of the variation time of the first special symbol display device 34. The function will be specifically described.

FIG. 29 is a timing chart showing changes in variable display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol.
Among these, (A) in FIG. 29 shows “an example of non-operation of the skip function and the variable time measurement temporary stop function”, and the second special symbol is displayed during the variation at the time of a big hit, and the first special symbol corresponds to the detachment. 9 is a timing chart showing changes in each variable display when the skip function and the variable time measurement temporary stop function do not operate when the variable display is started.

  In addition, (B) in FIG. 29 shows an “variable time measurement temporary stop function operation example”, and while the second special symbol is in variable display at the time of a small hit, the first special symbol is variable display corresponding to the deviation. 9 is a timing chart showing changes in each variable display when the variable time measurement temporary stop function is activated, when is started.

  Further, (C) in FIG. 29 shows an “skip function operation example”, and when the second special symbol is in the variable display when the special symbol is out, the first special symbol starts the variable display corresponding to the big hit. 3 is a timing chart showing changes in each variable display when the skip function is activated. The skip function and the variable time measurement temporary stop function will be described by taking these timing charts (A) to (C) as examples.

[(A) in FIG. 29: Example of non-operation of each function]
The state of each special symbol at time t0 represents that the first special symbol is in a variation waiting state, and the second special symbol is in a variation display at the time of a big hit.

  Then, at time t1, the game ball is won in the starting winning opening corresponding to the first special symbol, the internal lottery for the first special symbol is executed, and the first special symbol is based on the result of the internal lottery. The variable display is started on the display device 34. Here, since the second special symbol is being displayed in fluctuation during the big hit, the big hit lottery and the small hit lottery are not performed in the internal lottery related to the first special symbol. Therefore, the result of the internal lottery falls outside the range. In the illustrated example, a deviation (non-win) is selected as a result of the internal lottery related to the first special symbol, the variation time related to the first special symbol is set between t1 and t2, and the variation display is set to end at time t2. Is being done. Specifically, the time from time t1 to t2 is set in the variation timer for the first special symbol. The fluctuation timer represents the time during which the fluctuation display can be executed. The fluctuation timer is subtracted from the fluctuation timer by the time when the fluctuation display is executed, and the fluctuation display ends when the fluctuation timer reaches zero.

  Next, at time t2, since the variation timer for the first special symbol has become 0, the variation display for the first special symbol ends, and the first special symbol is stopped and displayed in a mode corresponding to the deviation. The result of the internal lottery regarding the stopped and displayed first special symbol is non-winning, so the skip function does not operate for the second special symbol here. Therefore, the variable display regarding the second special symbol is continued. That is, the fluctuation timer for the second special symbol (at the time of big hit) is not replaced.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, during the variation display during the big hit (may be during the small hit) in one special symbol, even if the game ball wins the starting winning opening for the other special symbol, the other special symbol Of the internal lottery related to the symbols, the jackpot lottery is not executed. That is, when one of the special symbols is being displayed in a variable manner at the time of a big hit, the other special symbol is in a non-lottery state.

[(B) in FIG. 29: Example of operation of variable time measurement temporary stop function]
The state of each special symbol at time t0 indicates that the first special symbol is in a variation waiting state, and the second special symbol is being displayed in variation at the time of a small hit.

  Then, at time t1, the game ball is won in the starting winning opening corresponding to the first special symbol, the internal lottery for the first special symbol is executed, and the first special symbol is based on the result of the internal lottery. The variable display is started on the display device 34. Here, since the second special symbol is being displayed in variation during the small hit, the big hit lottery or the small hit lottery is not executed in the internal lottery related to the first special symbol. Therefore, the result of the internal lottery falls outside the range. In the illustrated example, the deviation is selected as a result of the internal lottery for the first special symbol, the variation time for the first special symbol is set between t1 and t2, and the variation display is set to end at time t2. There is. Specifically, the time from time t1 to t2 is set in the variation timer for the first special symbol. The fluctuation timer represents the time during which the fluctuation display can be executed. The fluctuation timer is subtracted from the fluctuation timer by the time when the fluctuation display is executed, and the fluctuation display ends when the fluctuation timer reaches zero.

  However, here, at the time tx, which is a time between the times t1 and t2, it is assumed that the variation during the small hit of the second special symbol has ended. Then, after the time tx, the small hit game regarding the second special symbol is executed. Here, it is assumed that the small hit game is executed from time tx to time t2. Then, the variable time measurement temporary stop function is activated, and the measurement of the variable time of the first special symbol is temporarily stopped. Then, triggered by the end of the small hit game at time t2, the measurement of the remaining fluctuation time is restarted.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, while the variation display at the time of a small hit in one special symbol, even if the game ball wins the starting winning opening for the other special symbol, among the internal lottery for the other special symbol The big hit lottery and the small hit lottery are not executed. Then, when the small hit game with one special symbol is started, the measurement of the variation time of the other special symbol is temporarily stopped, and after that the measurement of the variation time of the other special symbol is restarted after the small hit game is finished. It

[(C) in FIG. 29: Example of skip function operation]
The state of each special symbol at the time t0 indicates that the first special symbol is in a variation waiting state and the second special symbol is in a variation display at the time of falling.

  Then, at the time t1, the internal lottery related to the first special symbol is executed when the game ball is won in the starting winning opening corresponding to the first special symbol, and the first special symbol is based on the result of the internal lottery. The variable display is started on the display device 34. Here, since the second special symbol is being changed and displayed at the time of deviating, the big hit lottery is first executed in the internal lottery related to the first special symbol, and the small hit lottery is performed when it does not correspond to the big hit. That is, the first special symbol indicates that the jackpot lottery can be executed. Therefore, the result of the internal lottery corresponds to a big hit, a small hit, or a loss. In the illustrated example, the big hit is selected as a result of the internal lottery regarding the first special symbol, the variation time regarding the first special symbol is set between t1 and t2, and the variation display is set to end at time t2. There is. Specifically, the time from t1 to t2 is set in the variation timer for the first special symbol. The fluctuation timer represents the time during which the fluctuation display can be executed. The fluctuation timer is subtracted from the fluctuation timer by the time when the fluctuation display is executed, and the fluctuation display ends when the fluctuation timer reaches 0.

  Next, at time t2, since the variation timer for the first special symbol has become 0, the variation display for the first special symbol ends, and the first special symbol is stopped and displayed in a mode corresponding to the big hit. The result of the internal lottery related to the stopped special display of the first special symbol is a big hit, and further, since the variable display regarding the second special symbol is being executed, the skip function operates. Then, by the operation of this skip function, the variable display at the time of a deviation regarding the second special symbol is terminated (forced termination means). Specifically, the variable timer for the second special symbol is replaced with 0. Therefore, the set fluctuation time is skipped.

  It should be noted that the variable display at the time of the deviation regarding the skipped second special symbol is not executed again unlike the operation example of (B) in FIG. 29. Further, the variable display effect by the effect symbol at the time of the deviation of the second special symbol on the liquid crystal display 42 is similarly skipped, and is ended at the same time as the time t2.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, while the variation display at the time of deviation in one special symbol, when the game ball wins the starting winning opening for the other special symbol, the jackpot lottery is executed in the internal lottery for the other special symbol. To be done. That is, when one of the special symbols is not in the variable display during the big hit or the small hit, it means that the big prize lottery or the small hit lottery is possible for the other special symbol. For example, when the game ball is won in the starting winning opening corresponding to the first special symbol while the second special symbol is being displayed in a variation state and the second special symbol is in a variation waiting state as described above, the first Of the internal lottery related to the special symbol, the big hit lottery is first executed, and then the small hit lottery is executed. Also, during the variation display at the time of one special symbol (second special symbol) out of sync, when the variation display at the time of big hit for the other special symbol (first special symbol) is started and ended after the variation time, one of the The variable display of the special symbol (second special symbol) is skipped, and the variable display can be forcibly ended.

[Processing during special symbol stop display]
Next, FIG. 30 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the special symbol stop displaying process (step S4000 in FIG. 14 or step S4900 in FIG. 15). Hereinafter, each procedure will be described. The contents of the special symbol stop display process described below can also be common in the first special symbol game process and the second special symbol game process. That is, when the following procedure is applied to the first special symbol game process, the control target is the first special symbol, and when the second special symbol game process is applied, the control target is the second special symbol.

  Step S4100: The main control CPU72 subtracts the value of the stop symbol display timer for the special symbol to be controlled (decrements only for the interrupt period).

  Step S4200: Then, the main control CPU72 determines whether or not the stop display time has ended, based on the value of the stop symbol display timer subtracted this time. Specifically, if the value of the stop symbol display timer is not 0 or less, the main control CPU72 determines that the stop display time has not ended yet (No). In this case, the main control CPU72 returns to the special symbol game process, and also jumps from the execution selection process (step S1000c in FIG. 14 or step S1900b in FIG. 15) in the next interrupt cycle to process during the special symbol stop display. Is repeatedly executed.

  On the other hand, if the value of the stop symbol display timer is 0 or less, the main control CPU72 determines that the stop display time has ended (Yes). In this case, the main control CPU72 next executes step S4210.

  Step S4210: The main control CPU72 executes a symbol determination frequency information management process (symbol determination frequency information transmitting means). In this process, the main control CPU72 executes the process of generating the symbol determination frequency information. The details of the process will be described later. When this process ends, the main control CPU72 next executes step S4250.

  Step S4250: The main control CPU72 generates a symbol stop command and a stop display time end command. The symbol stop command and the stop display time end command are transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process. In addition, the main control CPU72 erases the symbol changing flag here. The "stop display time end command" is a command indicating that the stop display time of the special symbol has ended (elapsed).

  Step S4300: The main control CPU72 confirms whether or not the value (01H) of the small hit flag is set.

  Step S4603: Then, when it is confirmed that the value of the small hit flag (01H) is set (step S4300: Yes), the main control CPU72 confirms whether or not the other special symbol is being variably displayed. To do. This confirmation process is to confirm whether or not it is necessary to activate the variable time measurement temporary stop function for the other special symbol as the variable display at the time of small hit of the target special symbol is completed. Executed.

  Then, when it is confirmed that the other special symbol is being displayed in a variable manner (Yes), the main control CPU72 determines that it is necessary to operate the variable time measurement temporary stop function for the other special symbol, and then the step S4604a. And step S4604b is performed. On the other hand, when it is not possible to confirm that the other special symbol is being variably displayed (No), the other special symbol is not variably displayed and it is not necessary to operate the variable time measurement temporary stop function, and the main control CPU 72 Executes step S4605.

  Step S4604a: The main control CPU72 executes the process of activating the variable time measurement temporary stop function for the other special symbol, that is, the process of saving the variation information of the other special symbol. Specifically, the main control CPU72, in order to temporarily stop the measurement of the variation time of the first special symbol, the value of the current variation timer (the value of the remaining variation time) and the information of the stop symbol in the RAM76. Execute the process of saving.

  Step S4604b: The main control CPU72 executes the process of turning on the variation time measurement pause flag stored in the RAM76 (variation time measurement suspension means). As a result, the measurement of the fluctuation time is suspended.

  Step S4605: The main control CPU72 sets the address of the small winning combination variable winning device management processing as the jump destination address of the jump table.

  Step S4606: Then, the main control CPU72 sets "small hit start (small hit game)" as an internal state flag on the control for the special symbol to be controlled. Further, the main control CPU72 generates a state command indicating that the small hit game is in progress for the special symbol to be controlled. The state command indicating that the small hit game is being executed is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process.

  Step S4600: Next, the main control CPU72 confirms whether or not the value (01H) of the big hit flag is set. When the value of the big hit flag (01H) is set (Yes), the main control CPU72 next executes step S4350.

[At the time of winning]
Step S4350: The main control CPU72 sets the jump destination of the jump table for the special symbol to be controlled to "the big winning time variable winning device management process". The main control CPU 72 executes processing for setting various functions to non-operation in this processing. Specifically, the probability variation function is deactivated and the time reduction function is deactivated. As a result, before the special game (major role) is started, the low probability non-time reduction state is entered.

  Step S4400: Then, the main control CPU72 sets "start big job (big hit game)" as an internal state flag on the control. Further, the main control CPU72 sets the value of the continuous operation number status according to the type of big hit symbol. For example, when the type of the big hit symbol is "16 round symbol", the value corresponding to "16 round" is set in the continuous operation number status. Further, when the type of jackpot symbol is "9 round symbol 1" or "9 round symbol 2", a value representing "9 round" is set in the continuous operation number status. In addition, the main control CPU72 generates a state command representing the big hit in the special symbol to be controlled. The state command indicating that the big hit is being transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process described above.

  Step S4500: Then, the main control CPU72 generates a continuous operation number command. The continuous operation number command can be generated based on the type (stop symbol number) of the jackpot symbol determined in the previous jackpot stop symbol determination process (step S2410 in FIG. 17). For example, when the type of big hit symbol is "16 round symbol", the continuous operation number command is generated as a value representing "16 round". When the type of the big hit symbol is "9 round symbol 1" or "9 round symbol 2", the continuous operation number command is generated as a value representing "9 round". The generated continuous operation number command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process. When the above procedure is completed at the time of a big hit, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game processing.

[When not elected]
On the other hand, in the case of non-winning, the following procedure is executed.
That is, if the main control CPU72 determines in step S4300 that the value of the small hit flag (01H) is not set (No), then it executes step S4600.
If the value of the big hit flag (01H) is not set and it is simply a deviation (No), the main control CPU72 next executes step S4602.

  Step S4602: The main control CPU72 sets the address of the special symbol variation preprocessing as the jump destination address of the jump table.

  Step S4610: When the process of step S4602 or step S4606 is finished, the main control CPU72 next loads the value of the number-of-times cutting counter. The “counting counter” has respective counter values set in the probability variation count area and the time saving count area of the RAM 76 in the “high probability state” and the “time reduction state”. In the present embodiment, the so-called number-of-times cut probability change function is adopted, and therefore, when shifting to the “high-probability non-time shortened state”, the number-of-times cut counter related to the high-probability state is set to a predetermined numerical value (for example, 100 times). However, the cut-off counter related to the time reduction state is not set. Further, when shifting to the "low probability time reduction state", the frequency cut counter for the high probability state is not set, but the frequency cut counter for the time reduced state is set to a predetermined numerical value (for example, 100 times). When shifting to the “high probability time reduction state”, the number-of-times cut counter for the high probability state is set to a predetermined numerical value (for example, 100 times), and the number-of-times cut counter for the time shortened state is also set for a predetermined value (for example, 100 times). Is set to.

  Step S4620: The main control CPU72 confirms whether the loaded counter value is 0 or not. At this time, if the number cut count value is already 0 (Yes), the main control CPU72 returns to the special symbol game process. On the other hand, when the number of times cut counter value is not 0 (No), the number of times cut counter value command is generated, and then the main control CPU72 executes step S4630.

Step S4630: The main control CPU72 decrements (decreases by 1) the count cut counter value.
Step S4640: Then, the main control CPU72 determines whether or not the subtraction result is not zero. As a result of the subtraction, when the value of the number-of-times cutting counter is not 0 (Yes), the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game process. On the other hand, when the value of the number-of-times cutting counter becomes 0 (No), the main control CPU72 proceeds to step S4650.

  Step S4650: Here, the main control CPU72 resets the flag when the multi-cutting function is activated. In the present embodiment, when shifting to the “high-probability time shortened state” or the “high-probability non-time shortened state”, the number-of-times-counting counter related to the high-probability state is set to a predetermined numerical value (for example, 100 times), and thus reset. All that is done is the stochastic function activation flag. Further, when shifting to the "low probability time reduction state", the number of times cut counter relating to the time reduction state is set to a predetermined numerical value (for example, 100 times), so that only the time reduction function operation flag is reset. is there. As a result, the time reduction state and the high probability state are terminated after the stop display of the special symbol. After finishing the above procedure, the special symbol game process (FIG. 14 or 15) is returned to.

[Symbol confirmation count information management process]
FIG. 31 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of the symbol determination frequency information management process. The procedure will be described below according to an example.

  Step S4211: The main control CPU72 executes the process of loading the external information status flag. The external information status flag is stored in the RAM 76, and its value is updated in the jackpot end processing.

  Step S4212: The main control CPU72 executes a process of exclusive ORing the external information state flag and the special game special symbol determination flag (exclusive OR operation executing means). The special game special symbol determination flag is stored in the RAM 76.

  Step S4213: The main control CPU72 confirms whether or not the result of the exclusive OR in step S4212 is "0".

  As a result, when it is confirmed that the result of the exclusive OR is “0” (Yes), the main control CPU72 executes step S4214. On the other hand, when it is not possible to confirm that the result of the exclusive OR is "0" (No), that is, when it is confirmed that the result of the exclusive OR is "1", the main control CPU72 is a special symbol. The process returns to the process during stop display (FIG. 30).

Step S4213: The main control CPU72 executes a process of saving the external information timer value (for example, 0.12 seconds) in the external information symbol determination frequency 1 timer.
By executing this process, the main control CPU72 can output the symbol determination frequency information 1 by the amount of the saved timer value (symbol determination frequency information transmitting means). The set timer value is counted down with the lapse of time, and finally becomes 0.

  Step S4215: The main control CPU72 confirms whether or not the value of the external information status flag is "0". The value of the external information status flag is a value before the exclusive OR is executed.

  As a result, when it is confirmed that the value of the external information status flag is “0” (Yes), the main control CPU72 executes step S4216. On the other hand, when it cannot be confirmed that the value of the state flag for external information is “0” (No), the main control CPU72 returns to the special symbol stop displaying process (FIG. 30).

Step S4216: The main control CPU72 executes a process of saving the external information timer value (for example, 0.12 seconds) in the external information symbol determination frequency 2 timer.
By executing this process, the main control CPU72 can output the symbol determination frequency information 2 by the time of the saved timer value. The set timer value is counted down with the lapse of time, and finally becomes 0. In addition, in the example of production described later, the symbol determination frequency information 2 is not used. The symbol determination number information 2 is used when it is desired to update the number of games of the data lamp when the first special symbol or the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in the left-handed state.

  Then, when the above processing is completed, the main control CPU72 returns to the special symbol stop display processing (FIG. 30).

FIG. 32 is a diagram showing the relationship between flag contents and exclusive OR.
As shown in (A) in FIG. 32, the external information status flag (first flag) stores a value of “0” or “1”, and when “0” is stored, it is in the left-handed state. It means that there is, and when "1" is stored, it means that the state is right-handed.

  Further, the special game special symbol determination flag (second flag), the value of "0" or "1" is stored, if "0" is stored, the state of the game with the first special symbol is progressing It means that, when "1" is stored, it means that the game with the second special symbol is in progress.

  And, the operation result when the state flag for the external information and the special game special symbol determination flag are exclusive-ORed becomes four kinds shown in (B) in FIG.

When the value of the state flag for external information is "0" and the value of the special game special symbol determination flag is "0", the operation result of the exclusive OR is "0".
When the value of the state flag for external information is "1" and the value of the special game special symbol determination flag is "0", the operation result of the exclusive OR is "1".

When the value of the state flag for external information is "0" and the value of the special game special symbol determination flag is "1", the operation result of the exclusive OR is "1".
When the value of the state flag for external information is "1" and the value of the special game special symbol determination flag is "1", the operation result of the exclusive OR is "0".

[Display output management process]
Next, FIG. 33 is a flowchart showing a configuration example of the display output management process (step S210 in FIG. 9) executed in the interrupt management process. The display output management process includes a special symbol display setting process (step S1200), a normal symbol display setting process (step S1210), a state display setting process (step S1220), an operation memory display setting process (step S1230), and a continuous operation number display setting. This is a configuration including a subroutine group of processing (step S1240).

  Of these, the special symbol display setting process (step S1200) and the normal symbol display setting process (step S1210), the operation memory display setting process (step S1230), as described above, the first special symbol display device 34, the second The special symbol display device 35, the normal symbol display device 33, the normal symbol working memory lamp 33a, the first special symbol working memory lamp 34a and the second special symbol working memory lamp 35a generate and output a drive signal to be applied to each LED. It is a process to do.

  The state display setting process (step S1220) and the continuous operation number display setting process (step S1240) are processes for generating and outputting a drive signal to be applied to each LED of the game state display device 38. First, in the state display setting process, the main control CPU72 controls the lighting of the probability variation state display lamp 38d and the time saving state display lamp 38e according to the value of the probability variation function operation flag or the time reduction function operation flag. For example, when the probability variation function operation flag is set to a value (01H) when the pachinko machine 1 is powered on, the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the LED corresponding to the probability variation state display lamp 38d. The probability fluctuation state display lamp 38d continues to be lit until the big hit game regarding the special symbol is started, or until the probability fluctuation function is turned off after the variation display of the special symbol is performed a prescribed number of times, and then non- The display can be switched (light off). On the other hand, when the value (01H) is set in the time reduction function operation flag, the main control CPU72 causes the LED corresponding to the time saving state display lamp 38e to emit a lighting signal regardless of whether or not the power is turned on. Is output. Further, the main control CPU72 controls the lighting of the firing position designation lamp 38f according to the special game management status. For example, when the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 is activated by the big hit game or the small hit game, the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the LED corresponding to the firing position designation lamp 38f. .. If the value (01H) is set in the time reduction function operation flag, the main control CPU72 sends a lighting signal to the LED corresponding to the firing position designation lamp 38f in addition to the time saving state display lamp 38e. Output. In addition, when shifting to the "time reduction state" after the big hit game, the firing position designation lamp 38f lights up from the start of the big hit game until the "time reduction state" ends, and does not turn on when the "time reduction state" ends ( OFF).

  Further, the main control CPU72 controls the turning on of the big hit type display lamps 38a, 38b in the continuous operation number display setting process. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal for one of the big hit type display lamps 38a and 38b based on the value of the continuous operation number status. At this time, the target of outputting the lighting signal is one of the display lamps 38a, 38b corresponding to the big hit symbol designated by the value of the continuous operation number status. For example, if the value of the continuous operation count status specifies "16 rounds", the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the lamp 38b representing "16 rounds (16R)". Further, if the value of the continuous operation count status specifies "9 rounds", the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the lamp 38a indicating "9 rounds (9R)".

[Variable winning device management processing during big hits]
Next, the details of the variable winning device management processing at the time of big hit will be described. FIG. 34 is a flow chart showing a configuration example of the variable winning device management processing at the time of big hit. Big winning variable winning device management processing, big winning game process selection processing (step S5100), big winning big winning opening pattern setting processing (step S5200), big winning big winning opening and closing operation processing (step S5300), big winning big This is a configuration including a subroutine group of a winning opening closing process (step S5400) and a big hit end process (step S5500).

  Step S5100: In the big hit game process selection process, the main control CPU72 selects the jump destination of the process to be executed next (one of steps S5200 to S5500). That is, the main control CPU72 selects the program address of the process to be executed next from the jump table as the jump destination address, and sets the end of the jackpot variable winning device management process as the return address in the stack pointer. Which process is selected as the next jump destination depends on the progress status of the process performed so far. For example, if the operation (opening/closing operation) of the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 is not yet started, the main control CPU 72 sets the big winning opening opening pattern as the next jump destination. (Step S5200) is selected. On the other hand, if the big winning opening special opening opening pattern setting process has already been completed, the main control CPU72 selects the big winning opening opening/closing operation process (step S5300) as the next jump destination to open the big winning opening. If the operation processing is completed, the big winning opening special winning opening closing processing (step S5400) is selected as the next jump destination. Further, when the big winning opening big winning opening opening/closing processing and the big winning opening big winning opening closing processing are repeatedly executed over the set continuous operation number (round number), the main control CPU 72 determines the big hit ending processing ( Step S5500) is selected. Hereinafter, each processing will be described in more detail.

[Prize winning mouth opening pattern setting process at the time of big hit]
FIG. 35 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure of a big winning opening opening pattern setting process at the time of big hit. This process is for setting conditions such as the number of times the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 is opened/closed and the time of each opening during a big hit. Hereinafter, each procedure will be described.

  Step S5204: the main control CPU72 executes a symbol-based open pattern selection process. In this processing, the main control CPU72, depending on the winning symbol of this time, the opening pattern of the special winning opening (the number of times of opening of each round and the time of each opening), the interval time between rounds, the number of counts in one round (maximum The number of winnings) and the operation pattern of the probability variation region solenoid 99 are selected. The opening pattern of the special winning opening for each winning symbol, the operation pattern of the solenoid 99 for the probability variation area, and the interval time between rounds are as described in the operation pattern of the variable winning device during the big hit shown in FIG. Note that the number of counts (maximum number of winnings) in one round is basically about 10, but it is unlikely that a winning will occur during opening for an extremely short time (about 0.1 seconds) (impossible). Not very difficult).

  Step S5206: The main control CPU72 sets the number of execution rounds in the big hit game of this time, based on the big hit winning symbol selected in the previous big hit stop symbol determination process (step S2410 in FIG. 17). Specifically, if the large classification “16 round symbol” is selected as the winning symbol, the main control CPU 72 sets the number of execution rounds to 16 times. Further, if "9 round symbol 1" or "9 round symbol 2" is selected as the winning symbol, the main control CPU72 sets the number of execution rounds to 9. The number of execution rounds set here is stored in the buffer area of the RAM 76, for example, as a corresponding value on the program (“8” for 9 times, “15” for 16 times).

  Step S5208: Next, the main control CPU72, based on the special winning opening opening pattern and the operation pattern of the probability variation area solenoid 99 set in the previous step S5204, the jackpot open timer and the probability variation area timer (count the opening time of the probability variation area. Timer). The value of the timer set here becomes the opening time of the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31, or the opening time of the probability variation area. In addition, if the time of about 20.0 to 29.0 seconds is set as the value of the big hit open timer and the probability variation area timer, the opening time will be the time of entering the big winning opening or the probability variation during one opening. This is a sufficient time for the passage of the area to occur easily (for example, the time for which 10 or more game balls are fired by the firing control board set 174, preferably 6 seconds or more). On the other hand, if 0.1 seconds is set as the value of the big hit open timer and the probability variation area timer, the opening time is not impossible to enter the big winning opening or pass the probability variation area during one opening. In both cases, it becomes a short time (which becomes difficult) that hardly occurs (for example, a time shorter than 1 second, preferably a time shorter than the interval between the game balls shot by the launch control board set 174).

  Step S5210: Then, the main control CPU72, based on the special winning opening opening pattern and the operation pattern of the probability variation region solenoid 99 set in the previous step S5204, the big hit time interval timer and the probability variation region interval timer (probability variation region temporarily. Set a timer that counts the waiting time for closing. The value of the timer set here becomes the waiting time between the rounds during the big hit or the temporary closing time of the probability variation region.

  Step S5212: When the above procedure is finished, the main control CPU72 sets the next jump destination to the big winning opening big winning opening opening/closing operation process, and returns to the big winning variable winning device management processing (FIG. 34).

[Large winning prize opening and closing operation processing]
FIG. 36 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of a special winning opening opening/closing operation process at the time of big hit. This process is for controlling the opening/closing operation of the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 at the time of a big hit. The procedure will be described below.

  Step S5301: The main control CPU72 confirms whether or not the special winning opening interval timer is counting down. Specifically, it is possible to confirm whether or not the special winning opening interval timer is counting down by checking whether or not the special winning opening interval timer set in step S5314 below is already in operation. it can.

  As a result, when it is confirmed that the special winning opening interval timer is counting down (Yes), the main control CPU72 executes step S5314. On the other hand, if it cannot be confirmed that the special winning opening interval timer is counting down (No), the main control CPU72 executes step S5302.

  Step S5302: The main control CPU72 opens the first big winning opening 30a or the second big winning opening 31a. Specifically, based on the operation pattern of the variable winning device during the big hit shown in FIG. 16, a drive signal to be applied to the first special winning opening solenoid 90 or the second special winning opening solenoid 97 is output. As a result, the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 operates to shift from the closed state to the open state.

  Step S5303: Next, the main control CPU72 executes a release timer countdown process. In this process, a countdown of the opening timer set in the previous big winning opening special opening opening pattern setting process (step S5208 in FIG. 35) is executed.

  Step S5303a: The main control CPU72 confirms whether or not the probability variation area interval timer is counting down. Specifically, it is possible to confirm whether or not the probability variation area interval timer is counting down by confirming whether or not the probability variation area interval timer set in step S5314 described later is already operating.

  As a result, when it is confirmed that the probability variation area interval timer is counting down (Yes), the main control CPU72 executes step S5314. On the other hand, when it is not possible to confirm that the probability variation area interval timer is counting down (No), the main control CPU72 executes step S5304.

  Step S5304: the main control CPU72 executes a probability variation area opening process. Specifically, based on the operation pattern of the variable winning device during the big hit shown in FIG. 16, a drive signal to be applied to the probability variation area solenoid 99 is output. As a result, the probability variation area vane member 31d is opened, and the game ball can be guided to the probability variation area arranged inside the second variable winning device 31.

  Step S5305: Next, the main control CPU72 executes the probability variation area timer countdown processing. In this process, the probability variation area timer countdown set in the previous big winning prize special opening opening pattern setting process (step S5208 in FIG. 35) is executed.

  Step S5306: Subsequently, the main control CPU72 confirms whether or not the special winning opening opening time has ended. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the open timer after the countdown process is 0 or less, and if the value of the open timer is not 0 or less (No), the main control CPU72 then proceeds to step S5307a. To execute.

  Step S5307a: Subsequently, the main control CPU72 confirms whether or not the probability variation area opening time has ended. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the probability variation area timer after the countdown process is 0 or less, and if the value of the open timer is not 0 or less (No), the main control CPU72 executes step S5308. Run.

  On the other hand, when the value of the probability variation region timer is 0 or less (Yes), the main control CPU72 executes step S5307b.

  Step S5307b: Probability variation area closing processing is executed. Specifically, the process of stopping the output of the drive signal applied to the probability variation area solenoid 99 is executed. As a result, the probability variation area vane member 31d is closed, and the game ball cannot be guided to the probability variation area arranged inside the second variable winning device 31.

  Step S5308: The main control CPU72 executes the winning ball number counting process. In this process, the number of game balls that have won the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 (the first big winning opening 30a or the second big winning opening 31a being opened) within the opening time is counted. Specifically, the main control CPU72 increments the value of the count number based on the winning detection signal input from the first count switch 84 or the second count switch 85 within the opening time.

  Step S5310: Next, the main control CPU72 confirms whether or not the current count number is less than a predetermined number (10). This predetermined number defines the upper limit of the number of winning balls (upper limit of the number of prize balls) allowed per opening (one round of the big hit) as described above. If the number of counts has not reached the predetermined number (Yes), the main control CPU72 returns to the jackpot variable winning device management process (FIG. 34). When the big winning variable winning device management process is executed next time, since the jump destination is set to the big winning opening opening/closing operation process at the present stage, the main control CPU72 executes the procedure of steps S5301 to S5310. Execute repeatedly.

  When it is determined in step S5306 that the special winning opening opening time has ended (Yes), or when it is confirmed in step S5310 that the count number has reached the predetermined number (No), the main control CPU72 proceeds to step S5312. Run.

  Step S5312: The main control CPU72 closes the first special winning opening 30a or the second special winning opening 31a. Specifically, the output of the drive signal applied to the first special winning opening solenoid 90 or the second special winning opening solenoid 97 is stopped. As a result, the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 shifts from the open state to the closed state.

  Step S5313: The main control CPU72 executes a probability variation region closing process. Specifically, the process of stopping the output of the drive signal applied to the probability variation area solenoid 99 is executed. As a result, the probability variation area vane member 31d is closed, and the game ball cannot be guided to the probability variation area arranged inside the second variable winning device 31.

  Step S5314: The main control CPU72 then executes an interval timer countdown process. In this processing, the main control CPU72 executes the countdown of the special winning opening interval timer and the probability variation area interval timer set in the above-mentioned big winning opening special opening opening pattern setting processing (step S5210 in FIG. 35).

  Step S5315: The main control CPU72 confirms whether or not the special winning opening interval time has ended. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the special winning opening interval timer after the countdown processing is 0 or less, and if the value of the special winning opening interval timer is not equal to or less than 0 (No), the main control The CPU 72 returns to the end address of the variable winning device management process at the time of big hit (FIG. 34). Then, when the special winning opening opening/closing operation process at the time of big hit is executed at the next call, the process jumps from the first step S5301, and directly executes step S5314. On the other hand, when it is confirmed that the value of the special winning opening interval timer after the countdown processing has become 0 or less (Yes), the main control CPU72 executes step S5318.

  Step S5318: The main control CPU72 increments the value of the opening number counter. The value of the opening counter is stored in the count area of the RAM 76 with an initial value of 0, for example.

  Step S5320: The main control CPU72 confirms whether or not the value of the release number counter after increment has reached the number set in the current round. Here, the "number of times set in the current round" is determined by, for example, "open the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 a plurality of times in one round during a big hit". This is to correspond to the opening pattern. In addition, in the present embodiment, for example, such an open pattern is adopted in the sixth round in the case of corresponding to either “9 round symbol 1” or “9 round symbol 2”, but from the first round to 5th. Up to the round, the “number of times set in the current round” is set once in each round. Therefore, since the counter value reaches the set number of times in one opening/closing operation in the first round to the fifth round in the case of corresponding to either “9 round symbol 1” or “9 round symbol 2” (Yes), The main control CPU72 will then proceed to step S5322.

  On the other hand, in the sixth round when either the “9 round pattern 1” or the “9 round pattern 2” is applied, a pattern in which opening and closing operations are repeated a plurality of times within one round is adopted, so one opening At the end, the counter value has not reached the set number of times (No). In this case, when the main control CPU72 returns to the big winning variable winning a prize device management processing, the jump destination is set to the big winning opening opening/closing operation processing at the present stage, so the procedure from step S5301 to step S5320 is performed. Execute repeatedly. As a result, in step S5318, the increment of the opening number counter proceeds, and when the counter value reaches the set number (Yes), the main control CPU72 proceeds to step S5322.

  Step S5322: The main control CPU72 sets the next jump destination to the big winning opening big winning opening closing processing, and returns to the big winning variable winning apparatus management processing (FIG. 34). Then, when the jackpot variable winning device management process is executed next, the main control CPU72 next executes the jackpot closing process.

[Large winning prize closing process at the time of big hit]
FIG. 37 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of the special winning opening closing process at the time of a big hit. The big winning opening closing process at the time of big hit is for continuing the operation of the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31, or for ending the operation thereof. The procedure will be described below.

  Step S5402: The main control CPU72 increments the round number counter. As a result, for example, the value of the round number counter becomes "1" at the stage of finishing the first round and proceeding to the second round.

  Step S5404: The main control CPU72 confirms whether or not the value of the incremented round number counter has reached the set execution round number. Specifically, the main control CPU72 refers to the value (1 to 15) of the incremented round number counter, and if the value is less than the set number of execution rounds (1 to 15 after subtraction) (No). Then, step S5405 is executed.

  Step S5405: The main control CPU72 generates a round number command from the current value of the round number counter. This command is transmitted to the performance control device 124 in the performance control output processing as described above. The production control device 124 can confirm the current round number based on the received round number command.

  Step S5406: The main control CPU72 sets the next jump destination to the big winning opening opening/closing operation process at the time of big hit.

  Step S5408: Then, the main control CPU72 resets the winning ball number counter, and returns to the jackpot variable winning device management process (FIG. 34).

  When the main control CPU72 next executes a big hit time variable winning device management process, the main control CPU72 in the big hit game process selection process (step S5100 in FIG. 34), the big hit time big winning opening opening/closing process which is the next jump destination. To execute. After executing the big hit opening/closing operation process at the time of big hit, the main control CPU72 again executes the big winning opening close process at the time of big hit, and executes the big winning opening close process at the time of big hit, and executes the above steps S5402 to S5408. Execute repeatedly. Accordingly, the opening/closing operation of the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 is continuously executed until the actual number of rounds reaches the set number of execution rounds (9 times or 16 times).

  When the actual number of rounds has reached the set number of execution rounds (step S5404: Yes), the main control CPU72 next executes step S5410.

  Step S5410, Step S5412: In this case, the main control CPU72 resets the round number counter (=0), and sets the next jump destination to the big hitting end processing.

  Step S5408: Then, the main control CPU72 resets the winning ball number counter, and returns to the jackpot variable winning device management process (FIG. 34). As a result, when the main control CPU72 next executes the big winning time variable winning device management processing, the big hitting time ending processing is selected this time.

[End processing at the time of big hit]
FIG. 38 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of the big hit end processing. This big hit end processing is for adjusting the conditions for ending the operation of the first variable winning device 30 or the second variable winning device 31 at the time of a big hit. Hereinafter, description will be given along with an example of the procedure.

  Step S5501: The main control CPU72 executes a big hit end time timer countdown process. In this process, the main control CPU72 sets an initial value in the jackpot end time timer, and then counts down the timer (every time this module is called) with the lapse of time.

  Step S5502: Next, the main control CPU72 confirms whether or not the big hit end time has elapsed. Specifically, if the value of the big hit end time timer is not yet 0, the main control CPU72 determines that the big hit end time has not elapsed (No). In this case, the main control CPU72 terminates this module and returns to the jackpot variable winning device management processing (FIG. 34).

  After this, when the value of the big hit end time timer becomes 0 with the passage of time, the main control CPU72 determines that the big hit end time has passed (Yes), and executes step S5503 and thereafter.

  Step S5503, Step S5504: The main control CPU72 resets the big hit flag (00H). As a result, the jackpot gaming state ends on the control processing of the main control CPU 72. In addition, the main control CPU72 erases "big hit" from the internal state flag here, and declares the end of the major role as the internal state in the control processing. The main control CPU 72 resets the value of the continuous operation number status.

  Step S5506: Next, the main control CPU72 confirms whether or not the value (01H) of the probability variation function operation flag is set. This flag is set in the previous switch input event process (step S28 in FIG. 10).

  Step S5508: When the value of the probability variation function operation flag is set (step S5506: Yes), the main control CPU72 sets the probability variation number (for example, 100 times). The value of the set number of times of probability variation is stored in, for example, the probability variation counter area of the RAM 76, and becomes the above-described number-of-times cutting counter value. The number of times of probability change set here is the upper limit number of times that a special symbol is changed (internal lottery) in a high probability state in subsequent games. In the present embodiment, since a substantial upper limit is set for the high-probability state, the high-probability state may return to the low-probability state without obtaining a winning result (so-called number-of-times probability change). If the value of the probability variation function operation flag is not set (step S5506: No), the main control CPU72 does not execute step S5508.

  Step S5510: Next, the main control CPU72 confirms whether or not the value (01H) of the time reduction function operation flag is set. This flag is set in the big hit time other setting process (step S2414 in FIG. 17) during the previous special symbol variation preprocessing.

  Step S5512: Then, when the value of the time reduction function operation flag is set (step S5510: Yes), the main control CPU72 sets the number of times of time reduction (for example, 0 times or 100 times). Here, which of the time reduction times is set depends on the value of the probability variation function operation flag. That is, the main control CPU72 sets 0 times as the number of time reductions if the value of the probability variation function operation flag is set (high probability non-time reduction state transition means, advantageous game state transition means), and the probability variation function operation flag. If the value of is not set, 100 is set as the number of time reductions (low probability time reduction state transition means, advantageous game state transition means). The value of the set number of time reductions is stored in the time reduction count area of the RAM 76 as described above. The number of times of time reduction set here is the upper limit number of times that the variation time of the special symbol is shortened in the subsequent games. If the value of the time reduction function operation flag is not set (step S5510: No), the main control CPU72 does not execute step S5512.

  Step S5514: Then, the main control CPU72 generates a state designation command based on various flags. Specifically, with the reset of the big hit flag or the end of a big role, a state designation command representing "normal" is generated as the game state. If the probability variation function operation flag is set, a state designation command representing "high probability middle" is generated as the internal state, and if the time reduction function operation flag is set, the state reduction is "time reduction in progress". Is generated. These state designation commands are transmitted to the performance control device 124 in the performance control output processing.

  Step S5515: The main control CPU72 executes an external information status flag setting process (first flag setting means). The external information status flag (first flag) is stored in the RAM 76. When the main control CPU 72 shifts to the high-probability non-time reduction state, that is, when the probability variation function operation flag is ON and the time reduction function operation flag is OFF, the external information state flag indicates " "1" is set, and otherwise, "0" is set to the external information status flag.

  Step S5516: After going through the above procedure, the main control CPU72 sets the next jump destination to the big winning opening opening pattern setting process.

  Step S5518: Then, the main control CPU72 sets the jump destination in the execution selection process (step S1000c in FIG. 14, step S1900b in FIG. 15) in the special symbol game process to the special symbol variation preprocess. When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU72 returns to the jackpot variable winning device management processing (FIG. 34).

[Variable winning device management processing during small hits]
Next, the details of the variable winning device management processing at the time of small hit will be described. FIG. 39 is a flowchart showing a configuration example of the variable winning device management processing at the time of small hit. Variable winning a prize device management processing at the time of small hit, game process selection processing at the time of small hit (step S6100), large winning opening opening pattern setting processing at small hitting (step S6200), large winning opening opening and closing processing at small hitting (step S6300) , A small winning big winning opening closing process (step S6400) and a small winning end process (step S6500).

  Step S6100: In the small hitting game process selection process, the main control CPU72 selects the jump destination of the process to be executed next (one of steps S6200 to S6500). That is, the main control CPU72 selects the program address of the process to be executed next from the jump table as the address of the jump destination, and sets the end of the variable winning a prize winning device management process at the time of small hit in the stack pointer as the address of the return destination. .. Which process is selected as the next jump destination depends on the progress status of the process performed so far. For example, if the operation (opening/closing operation) of the first variable winning device 30 has not been started yet, the main control CPU72 selects the small winning big winning opening pattern setting process (step S6200) as the next jump destination. To do. On the other hand, if the small winning big winning opening opening pattern setting process has already been completed, the main control CPU72 selects the small winning large winning opening opening/closing process (step S6300) as the next jump destination, and the small winning large If the winning opening/closing operation processing has been completed, the small winning big winning opening closing processing (step S6400) is selected as the next jump destination. When the small winning big winning opening opening/closing processing and the small winning large winning opening closing processing are repeatedly executed for the set number of continuous operations, the main control CPU 72 determines the small hitting end processing (step) as the next jump destination. S6500) is selected. Hereinafter, each processing will be described in more detail.

[Prize winning opening pattern setting process for small hits]
FIG. 40 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure of a big winning opening opening pattern setting process at the time of a small hit. This process is for setting conditions such as the number of times the first variable winning device 30 is opened/closed and the time of each opening during a small hit. Hereinafter, each procedure will be described.

  Step S6212: The main control CPU72 sets the "small hitting opening pattern". In the case of the present embodiment, as the “small hitting opening pattern”, for example, the opening pattern of “0.1 second opening” is set for the first time and the second time, respectively. Since there is no concept of “round” for “small hit”, the “opening pattern” is also expressed as “first opening” or “second opening”.

  Step S6214: The main control CPU72 sets the number of times of opening the special winning opening to, for example, 2 times based on the special winning opening opening pattern set in the previous step S6212. The release count set here is stored in, for example, the buffer area of the RAM 76.

  Step S6216: Next, the main control CPU72 sets a small hit time open timer. The value of the timer set here is the opening time per operation when activating the first variable winning device 30. In the present embodiment, the value of the small hit opening timer is set to 0.1 second as described above, and such opening time almost wins the big winning opening during one opening. It does not occur (becomes difficult) for a short time (for example, a time shorter than 1 second, preferably a time shorter than the interval at which the game ball is shot by the launcher unit).

  Step S6218: The main control CPU72 sets a small hit time interval timer. The value of the timer set here is a waiting time for each opening/closing operation of the first variable winning device 30 a plurality of times during a small hit, and this timer value is set to, for example, about 2 seconds.

  Step S6220: When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU72 sets the next jump destination to the small winning big winning opening opening/closing operation process, and returns to the small winning variable winning device management process (FIG. 39). Then, the main control CPU72 next executes a big winning opening opening/closing operation process at the time of small hit (step S6300).

[Large winning opening opening/closing operation processing for small hits]
FIG. 41 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of a big winning opening opening/closing operation process at the time of a small hit. This process is for controlling the opening/closing operation of the first variable winning device 30 at the time of a small hit. The procedure will be described below.

  Step S6301: The main control CPU72 confirms whether or not the interval timer is counting down. Specifically, by checking whether or not the interval timer set in step S6314 below is already operating, it is possible to check whether or not the interval timer is counting down.

  As a result, when it is confirmed that the interval timer is counting down (Yes), the main control CPU72 executes step S6314. On the other hand, if it is not possible to confirm that the interval timer is counting down (No), the main control CPU72 executes step S6302.

  Step S6302: The main control CPU72 opens the first special winning opening 30a. Specifically, the drive signal applied to the first special winning opening solenoid 90 is output. As a result, the first variable winning device 30 is activated to shift from the closed state to the open state.

  Step S6304: Next, the main control CPU72 executes open timer countdown processing. In this process, the countdown of the open timer set in the previous small hit big winning opening opening pattern setting process (step S6216 in FIG. 40) is executed.

  Step S6306: Subsequently, the main control CPU72 confirms whether or not the opening time has expired. Specifically, it is confirmed whether the value of the open timer after the countdown process is 0 or less, and if the value of the open timer is not 0 or less (No), the main control CPU72 then proceeds to step S6308. To execute.

  Step S6308: The main control CPU72 executes the winning ball number counting process. In this process, the number of game balls that have won the first variable winning device 30 (the first big winning opening 30a being opened) within the opening time is counted. Specifically, the main control CPU72 increments the value of the count number based on the winning detection signal input from the first count switch 84 within the opening time.

  Step S6310: Next, the main control CPU72 confirms whether or not the current count number is less than a predetermined number (10). This predetermined number defines the upper limit of the number of winning balls (upper limit of the number of prize balls) allowed per opening (one opening at the time of a small hit) as described above. If the counted number has not reached the predetermined number (Yes), the main control CPU72 returns to the variable winning device management process at the time of small hit (FIG. 39). When the small hitting variable winning device management processing is executed next time, since the jump destination is set to the small winning opening special winning opening opening/closing operation processing at this stage, the main control CPU72 executes the above steps S6301 to S6310. Repeat the procedure.

  When it is determined in step S6306 that the opening time has expired (Yes), or when it is confirmed in step S6310 that the count number has reached the predetermined number (No), the main control CPU72 next executes step S6312. Here, since the value of the open timer is set to a short time for the opening at the time of the small hit, the main control CPU72 normally performs the step before confirming that the count number has reached the predetermined number in step S6310. In most cases, it is determined in S6306 that the opening time has expired.

  Step S6312: The main control CPU72 closes the first special winning opening 30a. Specifically, the output of the drive signal applied to the first special winning opening solenoid 90 is stopped. As a result, the first variable winning device 30 returns from the open state to the closed state.

  Step S6314: Next, the main control CPU72 executes an interval timer countdown process. In this processing, the main control CPU72 executes the countdown of the interval timer set in the above-mentioned small winning big winning opening opening pattern setting processing (step S6218 in FIG. 40).

  Step S6315: the main control CPU72 confirms whether or not the interval time has ended. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the interval timer after the countdown process is 0 or less, and if the value of the interval timer is not 0 or less (No), the main control CPU 72 can change at the time of small hit. It returns to the end address of the winning device management processing (FIG. 39). Then, when the small winning big winning opening opening/closing operation process is executed in the next call, the process jumps from the first step S6301 and directly executes step S6314. On the other hand, when it is confirmed that the value of the interval timer after the countdown process has become 0 or less (Yes), the main control CPU72 executes step S6316.

  Step S6316: The main control CPU72 sets the next jump destination to the small winning big winning opening closing process, and returns to the small winning variable winning device managing process (FIG. 39). Then, when the small winning variable winning a prize device management process is executed next, the main control CPU72 next executes a small winning big winning opening closing process.

[Large winning opening closing process when small hit]
FIG. 42 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure of a big winning opening closing process at the time of a small hit. This small winning big winning opening closing processing is for continuing the operation of the first variable winning device 30 or for ending the operation thereof. The procedure will be described below.

  Step S6412: The main control CPU72 increments the value of the opening number counter.

  Step S6414: Next, the main control CPU72 confirms whether or not the value of the incremented release number counter has reached the set release number. The number of times of opening is set in the previous big winning opening opening pattern setting process (step S6214 in FIG. 40). If the value of the opening counter does not reach the set opening number (No), the main control CPU72 executes step S6416.

Step S6416: The main control CPU72 sets the next jump destination to the big winning opening opening/closing operation process at the time of small hit.
Step S6430: Then, the main control CPU72 resets the winning ball number counter, and returns to the variable winning device management processing at the time of small hit (FIG. 39).

  When the main control CPU72 next executes the variable winning device management process, the main control CPU72 in the small hit game process selection process (step S6100 in FIG. 39), the main jump CPU opening and closing operation process at the time of the next jump destination. To execute. After the small winning big winning opening opening/closing operation processing, the main control CPU72 executes again the small winning large winning opening closing processing until the actual opening number reaches the set opening number (two times). The opening/closing operation of the first variable winning device 30 is repeatedly executed.

  When the actual number of times of opening at the time of small hit reaches the set number of times of opening (step S6414: Yes), the main control CPU72 next executes step S6418.

  Steps S6418 and S6420: In this case, the main control CPU72 resets the opening number counter (=0), and sets the next jump destination to the small hitting end processing.

  Step S6430: Then, the main control CPU72 resets the winning ball number counter, and returns to the variable winning device management processing at the time of small hit (FIG. 39). As a result, when the main control CPU72 next executes the variable winning device management processing, this time the small hitting end processing is selected.

[End processing when small hit]
FIG. 43 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure for the small hitting end process. This small hitting end process is for adjusting the conditions for ending the operation of the first variable winning device 30 during the small hit. Hereinafter, description will be given along with an example of the procedure.

  Step S6502: The main control CPU72 executes a small hit end time timer countdown process. In this processing, the main control CPU 72 sets an initial value in the small hit end time timer, and then counts down the timer (every time this module is called) with the lapse of time.

  Step S6504: Next, the main control CPU72 confirms whether or not the small hitting end time has elapsed. Specifically, if the value of the small hitting end time timer is not yet 0, the main control CPU72 determines that the small hitting end time has not elapsed (No). In this case, the main control CPU72 terminates this module and returns to the small prize winning variable winning device management processing (FIG. 39).

  After that, when the value of the small hitting end time timer becomes 0 as time elapses, the main control CPU72 determines that the small hitting end time has elapsed (Yes), and executes step S6506 and subsequent steps.

  Step S6506, Step S6508: The main control CPU72 resets the value of the small hit flag (00H), and erases "in small hit game" from the internal state flag to end the small hit game. In the case of a small hit, the internal conditioner does not operate in particular, so such a procedure is merely intended to clear the flag.

  Step S6510: After going through the above procedure, the main control CPU72 sets the next jump destination to the big winning opening opening pattern setting process at the time of small hit.

  Step S6512: Then, the main control CPU72 sets the jump destination in the execution selection process (step S1000c in FIG. 14, step S1900b in FIG. 15) in the special symbol game process to the special symbol variation preprocess. After finishing the above procedure, the main control CPU72 returns to the small winning variable winning device management process.

  FIG. 44 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of external information processing. Hereinafter, description will be given along with an example of the procedure.

  Step S6630: the main control CPU72 executes various timer countdown processing. In this process, the main control CPU72 executes a process of counting down various timers for external information (for example, external information symbol determination number 1 timer and external information symbol determination number 2 timer) over time.

  Step S6632: The main control CPU72 confirms whether or not the value of the external information symbol determination frequency 1 timer is a value larger than 0.

  As a result, when it is confirmed that the value of the external information symbol determination frequency 1 timer is greater than 0 (Yes), the main control CPU72 executes step S6634. On the other hand, when it is not possible to confirm that the value of the symbol determination number 1 timer for external information is larger than 0 (No), the main control CPU72 does not execute step S6634.

  Step S6634: the main control CPU72 executes the process of storing the symbol determination frequency information 1 in the port output request buffer. Thereby, the main control CPU72, when the value of the symbol determination number 1 timer for external information is a value greater than 0, continues to transmit the symbol determination number information 1 to an external device (such as a data lamp or hall computer) You can

  Step S6636: The main control CPU72 confirms whether or not the value of the external information symbol determination frequency 2 timer is a value larger than 0.

  As a result, when it is confirmed that the value of the external information symbol determination count 2 timer is greater than 0 (Yes), the main control CPU72 executes step S6638. On the other hand, if it cannot be confirmed that the value of the external information symbol determination count 1 timer is greater than 0 (No), the main control CPU72 does not execute step S6638.

  Step S6638: The main control CPU72 executes the process of storing the symbol determination number information 2 in the port output request buffer. Thereby, the main control CPU72, when the value of the symbol determination number 2 timer for external information is a value greater than 0, to continue transmitting the symbol determination number information 2 to an external device (data lamp, hall computer, etc.) You can

Step S6636: The main control CPU72 executes other external information output processing. In this process, the main control CPU72 executes a process of storing other external information signals (for example, prize ball information, door opening information, big hit information, starting mouth information, etc.) in the port output request buffer as necessary.
Upon completion of the above processing, the main control CPU72 returns to the interrupt management processing (FIG. 9).

  FIG. 45 is a timing chart showing a temporal change in the opening pattern of the special winning opening for each winning symbol and the effect contents. Hereinafter, description will be made in chronological order.

[At the time of winning the 9 round pattern 1]
In FIG. 45(A): From the first round to the fifth round, the first special winning opening solenoid 90 is alternately turned on and off five times, and the first variable winning device 30 is opened and closed five times. repeat. From the 1st round to the 5th round, it is long open (29 seconds open). In the sixth round, ON and OFF of the first big winning opening solenoid 90 are repeated four times in a short period during the round, and the first variable winning device 30 repeats opening and closing four times. The sixth round is a short open (0.1 second open 4 times).

  45(B): From the seventh round to the ninth round, ON and OFF of the second special winning opening solenoid 97 are repeated three times in a short period of time, and the second variable winning a prize device 31 opens and closes 3 times. Repeat times. From the seventh round to the ninth round, it is a short open (0.1 second open).

  In FIG. 45 (C): As the effect contents, the battle effect is executed in the first round to the fifth round, the defeat effect is executed in the sixth round, and the defeat effect is continued in the seventh round to the ninth round. ..

[9 round design 2 win]
In FIG. 45 (D): From the first round to the fifth round, the first special winning opening solenoid 90 is alternately turned on and off five times, and the first variable winning device 30 is opened and closed five times. repeat. From the 1st round to the 5th round, it is long open (29 seconds open). In the sixth round, ON and OFF of the first big winning opening solenoid 90 are repeated four times in a short period during the round, and the first variable winning device 30 repeats opening and closing four times. The sixth round is a short open (0.1 second open 4 times).

  45(E): In the seventh round, the second special winning opening solenoid 97 is turned on and off once, and the second variable winning device 31 opens and closes once. The seventh round is a long release (29 seconds open). In the eighth round and the ninth round, ON and OFF of the second special winning opening solenoid 97 are repeated twice in a short period of time, and the second variable winning device 31 repeats opening and closing twice. The 8th and 9th rounds are short open (open for 0.1 second).

  In FIG. 45 (F): As the effect contents, the battle effect is executed in the first to fifth rounds, the victory effect is executed in the sixth round, and the V winning related effect is executed in the seventh to ninth rounds. To be done. In the V-winning-related effect, when the game ball passes through the probability variation area, an effect of transmitting to the player that the V prize has occurred is executed, and when the game ball does not pass through the probability variation area, V is generated. An effect for transmitting to the player that no winning has occurred is executed.

[9 round design 2 win]
In FIG. 45 (G): From the first round to the sixth round, the first special winning opening solenoid 90 is alternately turned on and off six times, and the first variable winning device 30 is opened and closed six times. repeat. From the 1st round to the 6th round, it is long open (29 seconds open). Further, from the 10th round to the 16th round, ON and OFF of the first special winning opening solenoid 90 are alternately repeated 7 times, and the first variable winning device 30 repeats opening and closing 7 times. From the 10th round to the 16th round, it is long open (29 seconds open).

  In FIG. 45 (H): From the seventh round to the ninth round, the second special winning opening solenoid 97 is alternately turned on and off three times, and the second variable winning device 31 is opened and closed three times. repeat. From the seventh round to the ninth round, it is a long release (29 seconds open).

  In FIG. 45 (I): As the effect content, a major role effect dedicated to the 16th round jackpot is executed from the first round to the 16th round. In addition, the above V winning-related productions can also be executed for the seventh round to the ninth round during the major effect production.

  Although the operation timing of the probability variation area solenoid 99 is not particularly shown, when the second variable winning device 31 is opened for a long time, it operates so as to open the probability variation area for a long time.

[Game flow]
FIG. 46 is a diagram illustrating a game flow developed when the “9 round symbol 1” or the “9 round symbol 2” is applied in the normal mode.
When the game is started on the pachinko machine 1, the game is started from the [F1] normal mode. "Normal mode", the winning probability of the special symbol is "low probability state", and the winning probability of the ordinary symbol is "low probability state". In this way, the [F1] normal mode is a "low probability non-time shortened state", so by inserting a game ball into the upper starting winning opening 26 or the lower starting winning opening 28a, the first special symbol changes. To start the game.

  [F1] In normal mode, if you win the big hit of [F2] "9 round pattern 1", [F3] 9 round big hit game (battle bonus) is executed, and [F4] you lose in the battle during the big role. , [F5] Transition to coast mode.

[F5] The coast mode is a low probability time reduction state. [F5] In the coast mode, if the winning result is not obtained and the [F6] special symbol changes 100 times, the process shifts to the [F1] normal mode.
In the [F5] coast mode, the first special symbol mainly fluctuates, so that the game flow is the same as in the normal mode.

  [F1] In the normal mode, if the [F7] "9 round symbol 2" jackpot is won, the [F3] 9 round jackpot game (battle bonus) is executed, and [F8] you win the battle during the big role.

  Then, in the seventh round of the [F9] 9-round jackpot game, when the game ball passes through the probability variation area (when the V prize is won), [F10] The effect indicating that the V prize is generated is executed, and [F11] Fireworks Move to rush.

  [F11] Fireworks rush is a high probability non-time shortened state. [F11] In the fireworks rush, if the result of the winning is not obtained and the [F12] special symbol changes 100 times, the process shifts to the [F1] normal mode.

  On the other hand, if the game ball does not pass through the probability variation area in the seventh round of the big hit game (if no V-win), [F10] V-win does not occur, although it corresponds to [F13] 9-round symbol 2 The effect indicating that it is executed is executed, and the mode shifts to [F5] coast mode.

  [F5] Coast mode or [F11] When the fireworks rush corresponds to a 16-round jackpot, a 16-round jackpot game is executed. Then, if the game ball passes through the probability variation area in the seventh round to the ninth round of the 16 round jackpot game, it shifts to [F11] fireworks rush, and in the seventh round to the ninth round of the 16 round jackpot game. Does not pass through the probability variation region, the mode shifts to [F5] coast mode.

[Game flow]
FIG. 47 is a diagram illustrating a game flow developed when the fireworks rush corresponds to “16 round symbol” or “9 round symbol 2”.
[F11] If you win the jackpot of [G1] "16 round pattern" in the fireworks rush, [G2] 16 round jackpot game (special bonus) is executed.

  [G3] When the game ball passes through the probability variation area in any of the seventh round to the ninth round of the 16-round jackpot game (when V is won), [G4] V winning is indicated. Is executed, and after the jackpot game is over, the process shifts to [F11] fireworks rush.

  On the other hand, [G5] If the game ball does not pass through the probability variation area in any of the 7th to 9th rounds of the big hit game although it corresponds to the 16th round design (when the V prize is not won), [G6 ] An effect indicating that no V winning is generated is executed, and after the big hit game is over, the [F5] coast mode is entered.

  If [G11] "9 round design 2" jackpot is won in [F11] fireworks rush, [G11] 9 round jackpot game (normal bonus effect) is executed.

  [G12] When the game ball passes through the probability variation area in the seventh round of the 9-round big hit game (when a V prize is won), [G13] an effect indicating that a V win has occurred is executed, and the big hit game ends. Afterwards, it shifts to [F11] fireworks rush.

On the other hand, [G14] If the game ball does not pass the probability variation area in the seventh round of the big hit game, although it corresponds to the 9th round symbol 2 (if V is not won), [G15] For example, the end of the 9th round After that, an effect indicating that the V winning is not generated is executed, and then the [F5] coast mode is entered.
It should be noted that the above game flow shows an example of a typical game flow, and does not cover all the flow of games.

[Example of performance image]
Next, the effect image actually displayed on the liquid crystal display 42 in the pachinko machine 1 will be described with some examples. As described above, when the big hit internal lottery is performed in the pachinko machine 1, the variation pattern (variation time) is determined under the control of the main control CPU 72, and the variation display by the first special symbol and the second special symbol is performed. Is displayed (pattern display means). However, as described above, the first special symbol and the second special symbol themselves are lit/blinking display by the 7-segment LED, so that they are not so appealing to the eyes. Therefore, in the pachinko machine 1, a variable display effect using effect symbols and the like is executed.

  The production design includes, for example, three production designs, a left production design, a middle production design, and a right production design, which are displayed side by side on the screen of the liquid crystal display 42 in the left, middle, and right directions (see FIG. 1). ). Each effect design is, for example, a design of a picture card to which a character is attached together with the numbers "1" to "9". Here, the left effect symbol, the middle effect symbol, and the right effect symbol all constitute a symbol row in which the numbers are arranged in descending order of “9” to “1”. Such a symbol string is variably displayed so as to vertically flow (scroll) in each of the left area, the middle area, and the right area on the screen.

48 to 50 are continuous views showing examples of effects in the normal mode.
In the following figures, an example of effect on the liquid crystal display screen, an example of display on the data display device D (data lamp), and an example of display on the integrated display substrate 89 are shown. An operation unit including a history button and a call button is arranged on the left side of the data display device D, the number of jackpots for today, the day before and the day before the last day is displayed at the upper part of the screen, and the today is displayed at the bottom of the screen. The number of games (the number of changes) after the jackpot is over or when the game is started is displayed.

[First variation of the first special symbol]
In FIG. 48 (A): The first out-of-order variation of the first special symbol in the normal mode is being executed, and the second special symbol is also in the changing state. The number of games on the data display device D is zero.
In the illustrated example, the first special symbol display device 34 variably displays the first special symbol, and the second special symbol display device 35 variably displays the second special symbol.
Further, on the liquid crystal screen, the effect symbol corresponding to the first special symbol and the fourth symbol Z1 are variably displayed, and the fourth symbol Z2 corresponding to the second special symbol is variably displayed. The first special symbol working memory lamp 34a, the upper lamp is blinking, the lower lamp is lit, it is displayed that the working memory of the first special symbol is three. Correspondingly, the number of markers M1 corresponding to the working memory of the first special symbol is three. The working memory of the second special symbol is 0.

  In FIG. 48 (B): the first variation of the first special symbol in the normal mode has ended. In the illustrated example, the first special symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display device 34, and the effect symbol and the fourth symbol Z1 are stopped and displayed on the liquid crystal screen in a disengaged manner (“7”). -"2"-"5").

  In this case, since the symbol determination frequency information 1 is transmitted to the data display device D, the number of games on the data display device D is one.

[The second variation of the first special symbol]
In FIG. 48 (C): the second variation of the first special symbol in the normal mode has been performed, and the second special symbol is also in the state of varying. The number of games on the data display device D is one.
In the illustrated example, the first special symbol display device 34 variably displays the first special symbol, and the second special symbol display device 35 variably displays the second special symbol.
Further, on the liquid crystal screen, the effect symbol corresponding to the first special symbol and the fourth symbol Z1 are variably displayed, and the fourth symbol Z2 corresponding to the second special symbol is variably displayed. The first special symbol working memory lamp 34a, the upper lamp is lit, the lower lamp is lit, it is displayed that the working memory of the first special symbol is two. Correspondingly, the number of markers M1 displayed corresponding to the working memory of the first special symbol is two. The working memory of the second special symbol is 0.

  In FIG. 49 (D): The second variation of the first special symbol in the normal mode has ended. In the illustrated example, the first special symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display device 34, and the effect symbol and the fourth symbol Z1 are stopped and displayed on the liquid crystal screen in a disengaged manner (“9”). -"7"-"1").

  In this case, since the symbol determination frequency information 1 is transmitted to the data display device D, the number of games on the data display device D is two.

[The third variation of the first special symbol]
In FIG. 49 (E): the third special variation of the first special symbol in the normal mode is executed, and the number of games on the data display device D is two.
In the illustrated example, the first special symbol is variably displayed on the first special symbol display device 34, and the second special symbol is stopped and displayed on the second special symbol display device 35 in the form of a small hit.
Further, on the liquid crystal screen, the effect symbol corresponding to the first special symbol and the fourth symbol Z1 are variably displayed, and the fourth symbol Z2 corresponding to the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in a small hit mode. .. The first special symbol working memory lamp 34a, the upper lamp is turned on, the lower lamp is off, it is displayed that the working memory of the first special symbol is one. Corresponding to this, the number of displayed markers M1 corresponding to the working memory of the first special symbol is one. The working memory of the second special symbol is 0.

  In this case, since the symbol determination frequency information 1 is not transmitted to the data display device D, the number of games on the data display device D is kept displayed twice.

  In FIG. 49 (F): The third variation of the first special symbol in the normal mode has ended. In the illustrated example, the first special symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display device 34, and the effect symbol and the fourth symbol Z1 are stopped and displayed on the liquid crystal screen in a disengaged manner (“2”). -"1"-"3"). The second special symbol of the second special symbol display device 35, and the fourth symbol Z2 continue to be stopped and displayed in the mode of a small hit.

  In this case, since the symbol determination frequency information 1 is transmitted to the data display device D, the number of games on the data display device D is three.

[Fourth variation of the first special symbol]
In FIG. 50 (G): the fourth special symbol variation of the first special symbol in the normal mode is executed, and the second special symbol is in a variation waiting state. The data display device D has three games.
In the illustrated example, the first special symbol is variably displayed on the first special symbol display device 34, and the second special symbol display device 35 is in a state where the second special symbol is stopped and displayed.
Further, on the liquid crystal screen, the effect symbol corresponding to the first special symbol and the fourth symbol Z1 are variably displayed, and the fourth symbol Z2 corresponding to the second special symbol is still displayed in a stopped state. The first special symbol working memory lamp 34a indicates that the upper lamp is off and the lower lamp is off, so that the working memory of the first special symbol is 0. Corresponding to this, the number of markers M1 displayed corresponding to the working memory of the first special symbol is 0. The working memory of the second special symbol is 0.

  In FIG. 50 (H): The fourth variation of the first special symbol in the normal mode has ended. In the illustrated example, the first special symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display device 34, and the effect symbol is stopped and displayed on the liquid crystal screen (“6”-“2”-“9”). ..

[5th variation of the first special symbol]
In FIG. 50 (I): It is assumed that the player shoots a game ball and the game ball has entered the upper starting winning opening 26 one by one. In response to this, the fifth special variation of the first special symbol is executed in the normal mode. The number of games on the data display device D is four.
In the illustrated example, the first special symbol display device 34 is variably displayed on the first special symbol display device 34, and the second special symbol display device 35 is in a state where the second special symbol is stopped and displayed.
Further, on the liquid crystal screen, the effect symbol corresponding to the first special symbol and the fourth symbol Z1 are variably displayed, and the fourth symbol Z2 corresponding to the second special symbol is still displayed in a stopped state. The first special symbol working memory lamp 34a indicates that the upper lamp is off and the lower lamp is off, so that the working memory of the first special symbol is 0. Corresponding to this, the number of displayed markers M1 corresponding to the working memory of the first special symbol is 0. The working memory of the second special symbol is 0.

  The above is an example of performance in the normal mode (low probability non-time shortened state), but is also an example of performance in the coast mode (low probability time reduced state) (count mode of the data display device D similar to the normal mode). ..

  In this way, in the left-handed state, the game by the first special symbol is mainly, so the symbol determination frequency information 1 is transmitted to the data display device D only when the first special symbol is stopped and displayed, and the second special symbol Since the symbol determination frequency information 1 is not transmitted to the data display device D when is stopped and displayed, it is possible to display the number of games according to the left-handed state.

51 to 53 are continuous views showing an example of the effect in the firework rush.
In the following figures, an example of effect on the liquid crystal display screen, an example of display on the data display device D, and an example of display on the integrated display substrate 89 are shown. An operation unit including a history button and a call button is arranged on the left side of the data display device D, the number of jackpots for today, the day before and the day before the last day is displayed at the upper part of the screen, and the today is displayed at the bottom of the screen. The number of games (the number of fluctuations) for which the jackpot is over is displayed.

[First change of the second special symbol]
In FIG. 51 (A): the first small winning variation of the second special symbol in the firework rush is being executed, and the first special symbol is also in the changing state. The number of games on the data display device D is zero.
In the illustrated example, the second special symbol display device 35 variably displays the second special symbol, and the first special symbol display device 34 variably displays the first special symbol.
On the liquid crystal screen, the effect symbol corresponding to the second special symbol and the fourth symbol Z2 are variably displayed, and the fourth symbol Z1 corresponding to the first special symbol is variably displayed. The second special symbol working memory lamp 35a, the upper lamp is blinking, the lower lamp is lit, it is displayed that the working memory of the second special symbol is three. Correspondingly, the number of markers M2 displayed corresponding to the working memory of the second special symbol is three. The working memory of the first special symbol is 0.

  In FIG. 51(B): the first small hit variation of the second special symbol in the firework rush has ended. In the illustrated example, the second special symbol display device 35 is stopped and displayed in the form of a small hit, and the production symbol and the fourth symbol Z2 are stopped and displayed in the form of a small hit on the liquid crystal screen. ("7"-"Special effect design"-"5"). The special effect design is an effect design that is stopped and displayed at the time of a small hit, and is an effect design in which an animal character is displayed in a large size.

  In this case, since the symbol determination frequency information 1 is transmitted to the data display device D, the number of games on the data display device D is one.

[Second variation of the second special symbol]
In FIG. 51 (C): The second small symbol variation of the second special symbol in the firework rush is being executed, and the first special symbol is also in a variable state. The number of games on the data display device D is one.
In the illustrated example, the second special symbol display device 35 variably displays the second special symbol, and the first special symbol display device 34 variably displays the first special symbol.
On the liquid crystal screen, the effect symbol corresponding to the second special symbol and the fourth symbol Z2 are variably displayed, and the fourth symbol Z1 corresponding to the first special symbol is variably displayed. The second special symbol working memory lamp 35a, the upper lamp is lit, the lower lamp is lit, it is displayed that the working memory of the second special symbol is two. Corresponding to this, the number of markers M2 corresponding to the working memory of the second special symbol is two. The working memory of the first special symbol is 0.

  In FIG. 52(D): the second small hit variation of the second special symbol in the firework rush has ended. In the illustrated example, the second special symbol is stopped and displayed on the second special symbol display device 35, and the effect symbol and the fourth symbol Z2 are stopped and displayed on the liquid crystal screen in the form of a small hit (“9 "-"Special effect design"-"1").

  In this case, since the symbol determination frequency information 1 is transmitted to the data display device D, the number of games on the data display device D is two.

[3rd variation of the second special symbol]
In FIG. 52(E): the third small hit variation of the second special symbol in the fireworks rush is executed, and the number of games on the data display device D is two.
In the illustrated example, the second special symbol display device 35 variably displays the second special symbol, and the first special symbol display device 34 stops and displays the first special symbol in a dislodged manner.
Further, on the liquid crystal screen, the effect symbol corresponding to the second special symbol and the fourth symbol Z2 are variably displayed, and the fourth symbol Z1 corresponding to the first special symbol is stopped and displayed in a disengaged manner. The second special symbol working memory lamp 35a, the upper lamp is turned on, the lower lamp is off, it is displayed that the working memory of the second special symbol is one. Corresponding to this, the number of displayed markers M2 corresponding to the working memory of the second special symbol is one. The working memory of the first special symbol is 0.

  In this case, since the symbol determination frequency information 1 is not transmitted to the data display device D, the number of games on the data display device D is kept displayed twice.

  In FIG. 52 (F): The third small hit variation of the second special symbol in the firework rush has ended. In the illustrated example, the second special symbol is stopped and displayed on the second special symbol display device 35, and the effect symbol and the fourth symbol Z2 are stopped and displayed in the form of a small hit on the liquid crystal screen ("2 -"Special effect design"-"3"). In addition, the 1st special symbol of the 1st special symbol display device 34, and the 4th symbol Z1 are continuing the state stopped and displayed in the mode of detachment.

  In this case, since the symbol determination frequency information 1 is transmitted to the data display device D, the number of games on the data display device D is three.

[Fourth variation of the second special symbol]
In FIG. 53 (G): the fourth small symbol variation of the second special symbol in the firework rush is executed, and the first special symbol is in a variation waiting state. The data display device D has three games.
In the illustrated example, the second special symbol display device 35 is variably displaying the second special symbol, and the first special symbol display device 34 is in a state where the first special symbol is stopped and displayed.
Further, on the liquid crystal screen, the effect symbol corresponding to the second special symbol and the fourth symbol Z2 are variably displayed, and the fourth symbol Z1 corresponding to the first special symbol is still stopped and displayed. The second special symbol working memory lamp 35a indicates that the upper lamp is off and the lower lamp is off, so that the working memory of the second special symbol is 0. Corresponding to this, the number of markers M2 corresponding to the working memory of the second special symbol is 0. The working memory of the first special symbol is 0.

  In FIG. 53 (H): the fourth small hit variation of the second special symbol in the fireworks rush has ended. In the illustrated example, the second special symbol is stopped and displayed on the second special symbol display device 35, and the effect symbol is stopped and displayed on the liquid crystal screen (“6”-“special effect symbol”-“9”). )).

[5th variation of the second special symbol]
In FIG. 53 (I): It is assumed that the player shoots a game ball and one game ball enters the right start winning opening 27. In response to this, the fifth out variation of the second special symbol in the firework rush is executed. The number of games on the data display device D is four.
In the illustrated example, the second special symbol display device 35 is variably displaying the second special symbol, and the first special symbol display device 34 is in a state where the first special symbol is stopped and displayed.
Further, on the liquid crystal screen, the effect symbol corresponding to the second special symbol and the fourth symbol Z2 are variably displayed, and the fourth symbol Z1 corresponding to the first special symbol is still stopped and displayed. The second special symbol working memory lamp 35a indicates that the upper lamp is off and the lower lamp is off, so that the working memory of the second special symbol is 0. Corresponding to this, the display number of the markers M2 corresponding to the working memory of the second special symbol is 0. The working memory of the first special symbol is 0.

  In this way, in the right-handed state, since the game by the second special symbol is mainly, the symbol fixed number information 1 is transmitted to the data display device D only when the second special symbol is stopped and displayed, and the first special symbol. Since the symbol determination frequency information 1 is not transmitted to the data display device D when is stopped and displayed, it is possible to display the number of games according to the right-handed state.

  Next, an example of a control method for specifically realizing the above effects will be described. The various effects described above are all controlled through the following control processing.

[Production control processing]
FIG. 54 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure of effect control processing executed by the effect control CPU 126. This effect control process is executed in a timer interrupt process (interrupt management process) separately from, for example, a reset start (main) process (not shown). The production control CPU 126 generates a timer interrupt at a predetermined interrupt cycle (for example, several tens μs to several ms cycle) during execution of the reset start process, and executes the timer interrupt process.

  Production control processing, command reception processing (step S400), operation memory production management processing (step S401), production design management processing (step S402), display output processing (step S404), lamp drive processing (step S406), acoustic drive. This is a configuration including a subroutine group of processing (step S408), effect random number updating processing (step S410), and other processing (step S412). Hereinafter, a basic flow of the effect control process will be described along with each process.

  Step S400: In the command receiving process, the effect control CPU 126 receives the effect command transmitted from the main control CPU72. Moreover, the effect control CPU 126 analyzes the received commands and stores them in the command buffer area of the RAM 130 by type. In addition, the command for the effect transmitted from the main control CPU72, for example, special figure destination determination effect command, (special symbol) operation memory number increase effect command, (special symbol) operation memory number decrease effect command, start opening Winning sound control command, demonstration effect command, lottery result command, variation pattern command, variation start command, stop symbol command, symbol stop time command, state designation command, number of rounds command, error notification command, jackpot end production command, cut number of times There are a counter value command, a fluctuation pattern destination determination command, a stop display time end command, a power supply restoration designation command, a time reduction designation command, a special count designation command, an ST count designation command, a firing position designation command, and the like.

  Step S401: In the operation memory effect management process, the effect control CPU 126 controls execution of the above-mentioned memory number display effect and the pre-reading notice effect using the markers M1 and M2.

  Step S402: In the effect symbol management process, the effect control CPU 126 controls the content of the variable display effect and the stop display effect using the effect symbol or the fourth symbol based on the result of the internal lottery, or the first variable winning device 30 or The effect contents at the time of opening and closing the second variable winning device 31 are controlled (effect executing means). Further, in this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects an effect pattern of various notice effects (pre-reach notice effect, post-reach notice effect, etc.).

  Step S404: In the display output process, the effect control CPU 126 controls the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146) with basic control information of the effect contents (for example, the number of operating memories for each of the first special symbol and the second special symbol). , Operation memory effect pattern number, pre-reading notice effect pattern number, variation effect pattern number, variation notice effect number, background pattern number, etc.). Thereby, the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146 and VDP 152) controls the display operation by the liquid crystal display 42 based on the instructed effect contents (effect execution means).

  Step S406: In the lamp driving process, the effect control CPU 126 outputs a control signal to the lamp driving circuit 132. In response to this, the lamp drive circuit 132 drives (turns on or off, blinks, changes in brightness gradation, etc.) the various lamps 46 to 52, the panel lamp 53, etc. based on the control signal.

  Step S408: In the next audio driving process, the effect control CPU 126 sets the effect contents to the audio driving circuit 134 (for example, BGM during changing display effect, reach effect, mode transition effect, big hit effect, sound data, etc.). Give instructions. As a result, the speaker 54, 55, 56 outputs a sound corresponding to the effect contents.

  Step S410: In the effect random number updating process, the effect control CPU 126 updates various effect random numbers in the counter area of the RAM 130. The effect random numbers include, for example, a random number used for advance notice selection and a random number used for a normal background change lottery (effect lottery).

  Step S412: In other processing, for example, the effect control CPU 126 outputs a control signal to the driving IC of the movable body 40f. The movable body 40f operates by using the movable body motor 57 as a drive source, and produces an effect in synchronization with the display of an image on the liquid crystal display 42 or independently.

[Production symbol management processing]
FIG. 55 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of the effect symbol management process. Production symbol management process, execution selection process (step S500), production symbol variation pre-process (step S502), production symbol variation process (step S504), production symbol stop display process (step S506) and variable winning device operation time This is a configuration including a subroutine group of the process (step S508). The basic flow of the effect symbol management process will be described below along with each process.

  Step S500: In the execution selection process, the effect control CPU 126 selects the jump destination of the process to be executed next (one of steps S502 to S508). For example, the production control CPU 126 sets the program address of the process to be executed next as the jump destination address, and sets the end of the production symbol management processing as the return destination address in the “jump table”. Which process is selected as the next jump destination depends on the progress status of the process performed so far. For example, in the situation where the variable display effect has not been started yet, the effect control CPU 126 selects the effect symbol change preprocessing (step S502) as the next jump destination. On the other hand, if the production symbol variation pre-processing has already been completed, the production control CPU 126 selects the production symbol changing processing (step S504) as the next jump destination, and if the production symbol changing processing is completed, next As the jump destination of, the production symbol stop displaying process (step S506) is selected. Further, the variable winning device operating process (step S508) is selected as a jump destination when the main control CPU 72 selects the big winning variable winning device managing process or the small winning variable winning device managing process. It In this case, steps S502 to S506 are not executed.

  Step S502: In the production symbol variation pre-processing, the production control CPU 126 performs an operation of adjusting the conditions for starting the variable display production using the production symbol. Further, in this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects the content of the reach effect according to various conditions (lottery result, winning type, variation pattern, etc.), and an effect pattern for the notice effect (reach other than the preread notice effect pattern. Pre-occurrence notice pattern, reach post-occurrence notice pattern, etc.) can be selected. In addition, the effect control CPU 126 also controls the demonstration effect when the pachinko machine 1 is in a so-called customer waiting state.

  Step S504: In the effect symbol changing process, the effect control CPU 126 generates control information for instructing the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146) as necessary. For example, when performing the effect using the effect switching button 45 (treasure challenge effect) during execution of the variable display effect using the effect design, the effect control CPU 126 monitors whether or not the player operates the effect button, and The display control CPU 146 is instructed about control information of effect contents (button effect) according to the result.

  Step S506: In the effect symbol stop displaying process, the effect control CPU 126 controls the content of the stop display effect using the effect symbol and the moving image in a mode according to the result of the internal lottery. That is, the effect control CPU 126 instructs the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146) to end the variable display effect and execute the stop display effect. In response to this, the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146) terminates the variable display effect that has been actually executed on the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42 and executes the stop display effect. Thereby, the stop display effect is executed substantially in synchronization with the stop display of the special symbol, and the result of the internal lottery can be directedly taught to the player (disclosure, notification, notification, etc.) (symbol effect execution) means). However, in the present embodiment, at the time of a small hit, the stop display effect is executed in a manner similar to or close to the loss.

  Step S508: In the process at the time of operating the variable winning device, the effect control CPU 126 controls the effect content during the small hit or the big hit. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects the content of the effect during the major role according to various conditions (e.g., winning type). For example, in the case of a 16-round jackpot, the effect control CPU 126 selects the effect pattern during the big win of the 16-round jackpot as the effect content to be displayed on the liquid crystal display 42, and instructs this to the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146). To do. As a result, the image of the major effect is displayed on the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42, and the content of the effect changes as the round progresses.

  FIG. 56 is a timing chart showing the transmission timing of the symbol determination frequency information 1. Hereinafter, description will be made in chronological order.

[Time t0]
In FIG. 56 (A): The first special symbol is stopped.
56(B): The second special symbol is stopped.
In FIG. 56(C): the internal state is other than the firework rush (for example, the normal mode of the low probability non-time shortened state).
In FIG. 56 (D): the symbol determination frequency information 1 is OFF (non-output state).

[Time t1→Time t2]
In FIG. 56 (A): The first special symbol changes.

[Time t2→Time t3]
In FIG. 56 (D): In this case, the symbol determination frequency information 1 is ON (output state).

[Time t4→Time t5]
56(B): The second special symbol changes.
In FIG. 56 (D): In this case, the symbol determination frequency information 1 is OFF (non-output state).

[Time t6]
In FIG. 56 (C): the internal state shifts to the firework rushing state (high probability non-time shortened state).

[Time t7→Time t8]
In FIG. 56 (A): The first special symbol changes.
In FIG. 56 (D): In this case, the symbol determination frequency information 1 is OFF (unoutput state).

[Time t9→Time t10]
56(B): The second special symbol changes.

[Time t10→Time t11]
In FIG. 56 (D): In this case, the symbol determination frequency information 1 is ON (output state).

  In this way, the symbol determination frequency information 1 is output every time the first special symbol other than the firework rush or the second special symbol during the firework rush stops changing.

  FIG. 57 is a timing chart showing the transmission timing of the symbol determination frequency information 2. Hereinafter, description will be made in chronological order.

[Time t0]
In FIG. 57 (A): The first special symbol is stopped.
57(B): The internal state is other than the firework rush (for example, the normal mode of the low probability non-time shortened state).
In FIG. 57 (C): the symbol determination frequency information 2 is OFF (non-output state).

[Time t1→Time t2]
In FIG. 57 (A): The first special symbol changes.

[Time t2→Time t3]
In FIG. 57 (C): In this case, the symbol determination frequency information 2 is ON (output state).

[Time t4→Time t5]
In FIG. 57 (A): The first special symbol changes.

[Time t5→Time t6]
In FIG. 57 (C): In this case, the symbol determination frequency information 2 is ON (output state).

[Time t7]
57(B): The internal state shifts to the firework rushing state (high probability non-time shortened state).

[Time t8→Time t9]
In FIG. 57 (A): The first special symbol changes.
57(C): In this case, the symbol determination frequency information 2 is OFF (non-output state).

[Time t10→Time t11]
In FIG. 57 (A): The first special symbol changes.
57(C): In this case, the symbol determination frequency information 2 is OFF (non-output state).

  In this way, the symbol determination frequency information 2 is output every time the first special symbol other than the firework rush stops changing.

As described above, according to this embodiment, the following effects are obtained.
(1) According to this embodiment, the symbol determination number information 1 is not always transmitted when the first special symbol or the second special symbol is stopped, but is left-handed and the first special symbol is stopped. Or, since it is transmitted only when the condition that the right-handed state and the stop of the second special symbol is satisfied, it is possible to transmit the symbol determination frequency information 1 that matches the gaming state.

(2) According to this embodiment, the first game state (during left hitting) that is the main game due to changes in the game state is the first special symbol, and the second game state (during right hitting) is the second special symbol. In the case of playing the game in the specification, by transmitting the symbol determination frequency information 1 according to the change of the gaming state, that is, the display output of the symbol determination frequency can be targeted for the symbol fluctuation according to the change of the gaming state By doing so, the display of the number of games on the data display device D becomes a display according to the game state, and the sense of discomfort and distrust felt by the player can be suppressed as much as possible.

(3) According to this embodiment, two flags such as a status flag for external information (first flag) and a special game special symbol determination flag (second flag) are used, and control is performed by an exclusive OR operation based on flag reference. It is possible to smoothly transmit the symbol determination frequency information 1 so as to suppress a specific load (resource).

(4) In the present embodiment, the first special symbol and the second special symbol can be changed in parallel to play a game (simultaneous turning machine) is adopted, but the type of special symbol to stop the game state Since the symbol determination frequency information 1 is transmitted by making a determination, it is possible to reduce the feeling of strangeness or distrust of the player.

(5) In the present embodiment, the probability of hitting the small hit in the second special symbol lottery is defined to be higher than the probability of hitting the small hit in the first special symbol lottery, so the small by the second special symbol lottery It is possible to realize the game property of increasing the number of balls to be played by the winning game condominium.

  The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment and can be variously modified and implemented. The aspect of the effect described in the embodiment is an example, and the present invention is not limited to the above-described aspect of the effect.

  In the above-described embodiment, an example of a gaming machine having a probability variation area has been described, but a gaming machine having no probability variation area (a general probability variation machine having a normal winning symbol and a probability variation winning symbol, or a probability variation having only a probability variation symbol) Machine).

  In the above-described embodiment, an example in which the present invention is applied to a so-called simultaneous turning machine has been described, but the present invention may be applied to a non-simultaneous turning machine.

  The images given in the other performance examples are merely examples, and these can be appropriately modified. Further, the structure, board surface configuration, specific numerical values and the like of the pachinko machine 1 are preferable examples including those shown in the drawings, and it goes without saying that these can be appropriately modified.

1 Pachinko machine 8 Gaming board unit 8a Gaming area 20 Starting gate 26 Upper starting winning opening 27 Right starting winning opening 28 Variable starting winning device (ordinary electric accessory)
28a Lower start winning hole 30 First variable winning device (special electric accessory)
30a 1st big winning opening 31 2nd variable winning device (special electric accessory)
31a Second big winning opening 33 Normal symbol display device 33a Normal symbol working memory lamp 34 1st special symbol display device 35 2nd special symbol display device 34a 1st special symbol working memory lamp 35a 2nd special symbol working memory lamp 38 Game state Display device 42 Liquid crystal display 45 Performance switching button 70 Main control device 72 Main control CPU
74 ROM
76 RAM
124 Production control device 126 Production control CPU

Claims (1)

A first game area where game balls flow down,
A second game area different from the first game area,
The first ball entrance region and the second ball entrance region for generating on the basis of the input spheres game balls different second drawing triggered the previous SL first drawing opportunity for generating on the basis of the first lottery opportunity to enter the sphere of game balls A plurality of ball entering means formed in the game board to include
First lottery execution means for executing a first lottery when the first lottery trigger is generated based on the flow down of the game balls in the first game area ,
Second lottery execution means for executing a second lottery when the second lottery trigger is generated based on the flow down of the game balls in the second game area ,
Based on the execution of the first lottery, the first symbol is variably displayed for a predetermined variation time, and then the first symbol is stopped and displayed in a mode according to the lottery result of the first lottery. Symbol display means,
Based on the execution of the second lottery, the second symbol is variably displayed for a predetermined variation time, and then the second symbol is stopped and displayed in a mode according to the lottery result of the second lottery. Symbol display means,
After the big hit game executed when the lottery result is a big hit, a first advantageous game state that makes it easier to put a game ball into the predetermined ball entering means than in the normal game state, or the first lottery or the above Game state setting means capable of shifting to at least one of the second advantageous game states in which the winning probability of the second lottery is higher than the normal game state.
After the big hit game, a variation time shortening function setting means that enables reduction of the variation time of the first symbol and the second symbol than the normal gaming state,
Against external equipment, before Symbol first symbol or the second symbol is a external information transmitting means for enabling transmission of symbols confirmation number information indicating that it has been stopped,
When the second advantageous game state is brought without the first advantageous game state, the variation time is shortened to allow the game progress to flow down the game ball to the second game area,
The external information transmitting means,
If the second symbol is stopped during the period relating to the shortening of the variation time in the second advantageous game state without the first advantageous game state, it is possible to transmit the symbol determination frequency information. Characteristic gaming machine.