JP6703810B2 - Amusement machine - Google Patents

Description

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

As a game machine, a game medium such as a game ball is launched into the game area by a launching device, and when the game medium wins a prize area such as a winning opening provided in the game area, a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out to the player. There is something to be done. Further, a variable display device capable of variably displaying identification information (also referred to as “variation”) is provided, which is advantageous for the player when the display result of the variable display of the identification information is the specific display result on the variable display device. Some are configured to be controllable to a specific gaming state.

The specific game state is a state in which a predetermined game value is given and is one of advantageous states advantageous to the player. Specifically, the specific game state, for example, the state of the special variable winning ball device is advantageous state for the player who can easily hit the ball (big hit game state), the right to be advantageous state for the player advantageous It is a state in which a predetermined game value is given such as a state in which it occurs, a state in which the condition for paying out the prize game medium is easily established. Examples of other advantageous states include a reach state, a high accuracy state, a high base state, and a chance state such as a chance zone.

Among such gaming machines, there is a gaming machine provided with operation means that can be operated by a player. Further, there is a game machine provided with operation means and displaying an image for prompting a player to operate (for example, refer to Patent Document 1). In the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, any one of a plurality of types of images for prompting the player to operate is displayed. Further, among such gaming machines, there is a gaming machine that changes the display mode of the operating means according to the degree of expectation (see, for example, Patent Document 2).

JP, 2013-188306, A JP, 2011-212138, A

However, in the gaming machine described in Patent Literature 1, an image for prompting the player to operate is displayed to improve the player's interest by the effect using the operating means. There is a possibility that the interest of the player may be reduced only by displaying the image for prompting the operation. In addition, using the techniques described in Patent Documents 1 and 2, even if the effect of changing the display mode of the image for prompting the player's operation and the effect of changing the display mode of the operating means are executed, There is a possibility that the player may not be able to pay attention to which effect, and the effect of the effect may be reduced.
As described above, even if the techniques described in Patent Documents 1 and 2 are used, there is a possibility that the player's interest may be reduced due to the effect using the operation means.

Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine capable of improving the interest of the player by the effect using the operation means.

(1) A gaming machine according to the present invention is a gaming machine that plays a game, and an operating means (for example, an operation button 150) that can be operated by a player, and an operating effect that executes an operating effect using the operating means. Execution means (for example, the processing of step S846 in the effect control microcomputer 100), and display control means for displaying on the display means an operation promotion image for prompting the player to perform an operation when the operation effect is executed ( For example, the process of step S845 in the effect control microcomputer 100) and the notification effect execution means capable of executing the notification effect (for example, the process of step S864A in the effect control microcomputer 100), and the operation described above. The effect execution means includes a plurality of modes (for example, “white” and “red” shown in FIG. 30) including a first mode in which the ratio of the operating device to the most advantageous state is low and a second mode in which the ratio to the most advantageous state is high. , “White/vibration”, or “red/vibration”), and the display control means causes the operation promotion image to be in the most advantageous state in the first image mode and in the most advantageous state. Is displayed in any of a plurality of modes including the second image mode (for example, “white/small”, “red/small”, “white/large”, “red/large”, etc. shown in FIG. 30), A common image display control unit that displays the operation promotion image in a mode common to a plurality of modes of the operation unit (for example, “white” (“white/small” and “white/large” shown in FIG. 30)) ( For example, it includes steps S501 to S503, S845, S846 in the effect control microcomputer 100), and the operation effect includes a vibration effect for vibrating the operation means (for example, the operation button 150). When the operating means is operated, the vibration can be changed in a plurality of vibration modes (for example, a vibration mode by a vibration change pattern VHP1, VHP2, VHP3, VHP4, etc. by a combination of a plurality of vibration patterns). According to the change of the mode, the effect mode of the notification effect (for example, the mode of the operation button is nothing, white, blue, yellow, red according to the vibration mode) is changed, and the operation promotion image is the second image mode. Is displayed, the operating means is not changed to the second mode.

With such a configuration, it is possible to improve the effect of the effect by the effect using the operation means, and it is possible to improve the interest of the player.

(2) Further, in the gaming machine described in (1) above, the vibration mode may be changed depending on an ON time and an OFF time of a drive unit that vibrates the operation unit (for example, FIGS. 50 and 51). The vibration intensity is changed like the combination of the ON time and the OFF time as shown in Fig. 52, and the vibration mode is changed like the vibration change pattern shown in Fig. 52).

With such a configuration, it is possible to make the player easily recognize the vibration mode.

(3) Further, in the gaming machine described in (1) or (2) above, the presentation mode of the notification effect changes at a timing after the timing at which the vibration mode changes (for example, the vibration effect is After being executed and the vibration intensity changes from nothing to weak, as a presentation mode of the notification effect, it is displayed by changing from nothing to a blue display mode, and as a presentation mode of the notification effect after the vibration intensity changes from weak to weak. , And the display mode is changed from blue to yellow).

According to such a configuration, first, the player can recognize the change in the effect mode by the change in the vibration mode.

(4) Further, in the gaming machine according to any one of the above (1) to (3), the notification effect is an effect by emitting light (for example, an operation button 150, an underframe lamp, and a role object). Lamps provided, the effect display device 9, an effect produced by light emission from a touch panel, etc.).

With such a configuration, it is possible to make the player recognize that the presentation mode is changing not only by vibrating but also by emitting light.

(5) Further, in the gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (4), the notification effect is an effect produced by being displayed by a display means (for example, an effect display device 9, a touch panel, (For example, an effect of displaying a character image on a sub liquid crystal).

With such a configuration, it is possible to make the player recognize that the presentation mode is changing not only by displaying the vibration but also by displaying the vibration.

(6) Further, the game machine according to the present invention is a game machine for playing a game, and an operation means that can be operated by a player, and an operation effect execution means that executes an operation effect using the operation means (for example, effect control). For executing the process of step S846 in the microcomputer 100 for display) and display control means for displaying an operation promotion image for prompting the player to perform an operation when the operation effect is executed (for example, for effect control) The part that executes the process of step S845 in the microcomputer 100), and the operation effect execution means has a plurality of operation means according to the degree of advantage (for example, the reliability of a big hit) (for example, "" shown in FIG. 30). (White), “red”, “white/vibration”, “red/vibration”), and the display control means displays the operation promotion image in a plurality of modes (for example, shown in FIG. 30) according to the degree of advantage. “White/Small”, “Red/Small”, “White/Large”, “Red/Large”), and a mode common to a plurality of modes of the operating means (for example, “White” shown in FIG. 30). (“White/Small” and “White/Large”) operation promoting image is displayed on the common image display control means (eg, steps S501 to S503, S845, and S846 in the effect control microcomputer 100). Part) may be included.

With such a configuration, it is possible to further enhance the interest of the player by the effect using the operation means.

(7) In the gaming machine described in (6) above, the degree of advantage may be different depending on the combination of the mode of the operating means and the mode of the operation promotion image (see FIG. 30).

With such a configuration, the player can be focused on the combination of the mode of the operation means and the mode of the operation promotion image.

(8) In the gaming machine described in (6) or (7) above, a combination that does not appear among the combinations of the mode of the operation means and the mode of the operation promotion image (for example, "red/small" shown in FIG. 30 or There may be a combination of “red/large” and “red” or “red/vibration”).

With such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the combination that is considered inappropriate to present to the player from being displayed.

(9) In the gaming machine described in any of (6) to (8) above, after the game medium has passed through the starting area, the variable display of the identification information is performed based on the condition for starting the variable display being satisfied. In the gaming machine to be started, the variable display of the identification information in which the game medium has passed through the starting region (for example, the first starting winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14) but the starting condition is not satisfied is used as the pending storage. Hold storage means for storing (for example, first hold storage buffer and second hold storage buffer: see FIG. 12) and hold storage display means for displaying hold storage corresponding to hold storage (for example, in the production control microcomputer 100). A portion that executes the process of step S662), and an effective period setting unit that sets an effective period during which the operation of the operation unit is valid (for example, a portion of the effect control microcomputer 100 that executes the process of step S847), A determination unit that determines whether or not the operation unit is operated at a specific timing within the valid period (for example, a portion of the effect control microcomputer 100 that executes the processes of steps S852 and S853), and the determination unit is specified. When it is determined that the operation means has been operated at the timing (when the end of the meter portion in the meter-shaped image 9c reaches the specific position: see FIG. 34D), the specific effect is executed and the storage is suspended. Specific effect means for changing the display mode (for example, a part of the effect control microcomputer 100 that executes the processes of steps S856 and S857 and the process of the second modification) may be provided.

According to such a configuration, the player pays attention to the timing of the operation, so that it is possible to further enhance the interest of the player by the effect using the operation means.

It is the front view which saw the pachinko game machine from the front. It is a block diagram showing a circuit configuration example of a game control board (main board). It is a block diagram showing a circuit configuration example of a relay board, a performance control board, a lamp driver board, and a sound output board. It is a flow chart which shows an example of the main processing which a microcomputer for game control performs. It is a flowchart which shows a timer interruption process. It is explanatory drawing which shows each random number. It is an explanatory view showing a big hit determination table and a big hit type determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of a fluctuation pattern. It is the explanation drawing which shows one example of the contents of production control command. It is the flowchart which shows the special design process treatment. It is a flow chart which shows starting opening switch passage processing. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of a reservation specific area and a storage area (holding buffer). It is a flow chart which shows an example of special design normal processing. It is a flow chart which shows an example of special design normal processing. It is a flow chart which shows an example of change pattern setting processing. 7 is a flowchart showing a display result designation command transmission process. It is a flow chart which shows an example of processing during special symbol change. It is a flow chart which shows an example of special symbol stop processing. It is a flow chart which shows an example of big hit end processing. It is the flowchart which shows one example of the main processing which the production control microcomputer executes. It is a flow chart which shows an example of command analysis processing. It is a flow chart which shows an example of command analysis processing. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the value of game state data. It is the explanation drawing which shows the random number which the production control microcomputer uses. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating operation production. It is the flowchart which shows one example of production control process treatment. It is a flow chart which shows an example of change pattern command reception waiting processing. It is the flowchart which shows one example of production design fluctuation start processing. It is a flow chart which shows an example of operation production decision processing. It is the explanation drawing which shows the constitution example of the operation production decision table. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of a process table. It is the flowchart which shows one example of the production design fluctuation process. It is the flowchart which shows one example of production design fluctuation stop processing. It is an explanatory view for explaining a modification of operation production. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the content of the production|generation control command in a modification. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the content of the production|generation control command in a modification. It is a flowchart which shows the starting opening switch passage process in a modification. It is a flowchart showing a winning determination process. It is a flow chart which shows an example of command analysis processing. It is an explanatory view showing an example of a winning determination result storage buffer. It is a flow chart which shows an example of production control process processing in a modification. It is a flow chart which shows an example of reservation mode decision processing. It is explanatory drawing which shows the random number which the microcomputer for production control in a modified example uses. It is an explanatory view showing an example of composition of a reservation mode decision table. It is a flow chart which shows an example of processing during production design change in a modification. It is a flow chart which shows an example of processing during production design change in a modification. It is a flow chart which shows an example of the effect design variation start processing in a modification. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the vibration production determination process in a modification. It is a figure which shows the example of setting of the determination rate by the vibration production execution presence/absence determination table in a modification. It is explanatory drawing explaining an example of the vibration mode in a modification. 9 is a timing chart showing the relationship between the ON time and the OFF time of the drive device in the modification and the vibration time. It is a figure which shows an example of the vibration mode of the vibration production in a modification. It is a figure which shows the example of setting of the determination rate of the vibration change pattern by the vibration change pattern determination table in a modification. It is a flow chart which shows an example of the effect design variation stop processing in a modification.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. First, the overall configuration of a pachinko gaming machine 1, which is an example of a gaming machine, will be described. FIG. 1 is a front view of the pachinko gaming machine 1 as viewed from the front.

The pachinko gaming machine 1 is composed of an outer frame (not shown) formed in a vertically long rectangular shape, and a game frame attached to the inside of the outer frame so as to be openable and closable. In addition, the pachinko gaming machine 1 has a frame-shaped glass door frame 2 which is provided in the gaming frame so as to be openable and closable. The game frame is a front frame (not shown) installed to be openable and closable with respect to the outer frame, a mechanism plate (not shown) to which mechanical components and the like are attached, and various components attached to them (games to be described later). (Excluding the board 6).

On the lower surface of the glass door frame 2, there is a hit ball supply plate (upper plate) 3. Below the hitting ball supply tray 3, there are provided a surplus ball receiving tray 4 for storing game balls that cannot be accommodated in the hitting ball feed tray 3, and a hitting ball operation handle (operation knob) 5 for firing the hit ball. A game board 6 is detachably attached to the back surface of the glass door frame 2. The game board 6 is a structure including a plate-shaped body that constitutes the game board 6 and various components attached to the plate-shaped body. Further, on the front surface of the game board 6, a game area 7 in which the driven game balls can flow down is formed.

On the left side of the lower part of the game board 6, a first special symbol display (first variable display portion) 8a for variably displaying the first special symbol as identification information is provided. In this embodiment, the first special symbol display device 8a is realized by a simple and small-sized display device (for example, 7-segment LED) capable of variably displaying the numbers 0-9. That is, the first special symbol display device 8a is configured to variably display numbers (or symbols) from 0 to 9. On the lower right side of the game board 6, a second special symbol display (second variable display section) 8b that variably displays the second special symbol as identification information is provided. The second special symbol display device 8b is realized by a simple and small-sized display device (for example, 7-segment LED) capable of variably displaying the numbers 0-9. That is, the second special symbol display device 8b is configured to variably display numbers (or symbols) of 0-9.

The small display is formed in a square shape, for example. Further, in this embodiment, the type of the first special symbol and the type of the second special symbol are the same (for example, both numbers 0 to 9), but the types may be different. In addition, the first special symbol display device 8a and the second special symbol display device 8b may be configured to variably display numbers (or two-digit symbols) of 00 to 99, respectively.

Hereinafter, the first special symbol and the second special symbol may be collectively referred to as a special symbol, and the first special symbol indicator 8a and the second special symbol indicator 8b are collectively referred to as a special symbol indicator (variable display section). I have something to do.

In addition, in this embodiment, two special symbol display devices 8a and 8b are provided, but the gaming machine may include only one special symbol display device.

The variable display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol, the first starting condition or the second starting condition that is the execution condition of the variable display is satisfied (for example, the game ball is the first starting winning opening 13 or the second starting winning opening). After having passed 14 (including winning), the variable display start condition (for example, when the number of pending storage is not 0, variable display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol is not executed It is a state, and started based on the fact that the big hit game is not executed) is established, and when the variable display time (variation time) elapses, the display result (stop symbol) is derived and displayed. It should be noted that passing a game ball means that the game ball has passed through a predetermined winning area such as a winning opening or a gate, and includes a concept that the gaming ball has entered (winning) the winning opening. Is. Derivative display of the display result means that the symbol (an example of identification information) is finally stopped and displayed.

The variable display of the special symbol, the start condition that is the execution condition of the variable display is satisfied (for example, that the game ball has passed through the second start winning port 14 (including winning)), then the variable display start condition (for example, , When the number of stored memories is not 0, the state in which the variable display of special symbols is not being executed, and the state where the jackpot game is not being executed) is started, and the variable display time When (variation time) elapses, the display result (stop pattern) is derived and displayed. It should be noted that passing a game ball means that the game ball has passed through a predetermined winning area such as a winning opening or a gate, and includes a concept that the gaming ball has entered (winning) the winning opening. Is. Derivative display of the display result means that the symbol (an example of identification information) is finally stopped and displayed.

Near the center of the game area 7, an effect display device 9 composed of a liquid crystal display device (LCD) is provided. On the effect display device 9, variable display of decorative (for effect) effect symbols (decorative symbols) is performed in synchronization with variable display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol. Therefore, the effect display device 9 corresponds to a variable display device that variably displays effect symbols. On the display screen of the effect display device 9, for example, there is a symbol display area for variably displaying three effect symbols of “left”, “middle”, and “right”. The symbol display area includes each of the “left”, “middle”, and “right” symbol display areas, but the position of the symbol display area does not have to be fixed on the display screen of the effect display device 9, and the symbol may be displayed. The three areas of the display area may be separated. The effect display device 9 is controlled by the effect control microcomputer mounted on the effect control board. When the variable display of the first special symbol is being executed by the first special symbol display device 8a, the effect control microcomputer causes the effect display device 9 to perform the effect display along with the variable display, and the second special symbol is displayed. When the variable display of the second special symbol is being executed on the symbol display device 8b, since the effect display is executed on the effect display device 9 in accordance with the variable display, it is possible to easily grasp the progress of the game. .

Further, in the effect display device 9, the symbols other than the symbol to be the final stop symbol (for example, the middle symbol among the left and right middle symbols) continue for a predetermined time, and the big hit symbols (for example, the symbols in the left, middle, and right are arranged in the same symbol). In the state of matching with the combination of symbols), the state of swinging, scaling or deforming, or multiple symbols fluctuating in sync with the same symbol, or the position of the display symbol is swapped. Then, an effect performed in a state in which the possibility of a big hit continues before the final result is displayed (hereinafter, these states are referred to as reach states) is referred to as reach production. Further, the reach state and the state thereof are referred to as the reach mode. Furthermore, the variable display that includes the reach effect is called the reach variable display. Then, when the display result of the symbols variably displayed on the effect display device 9 is not the big hit symbol, the result is “out”, and the variable display state ends. A player plays a game while enjoying how to generate a big hit.

If the first special symbol display device 8a, the second special symbol display device 8b, and the effect display device 9 display the shift symbol in a stopped manner, the variable display state of the effect symbol is started after the variable display of the effect symbol is started. A predetermined combination of effect symbols that does not reach the reach state may be stopped and displayed without reaching the reach state. Such a variable display mode of the effect symbol is referred to as a variable display mode of "non-reach" (also referred to as "normal loss") in the case where the variable display result is a deviating symbol.

If the first special symbol display device 8a, the second special symbol display device 8b, and the effect display device 9 display the shift symbol in a stopped manner, the variable display state of the effect symbol is started after the variable display of the effect symbol is started. The reach effect may be executed after the reach state is reached, and a combination of predetermined effect symbols that are not the big hit symbols may be stopped and displayed. The variable display result of such effect symbols is referred to as a variable display mode of “reach” (also referred to as “reach loss”) when the variable display result is “off”.

In this embodiment, the variable display of the effect symbol is used as the effect of the liquid crystal display on the effect display device 9, but the effect performed by the effect display device 9 is not limited to the variable display of the effect symbol, and for example, You may make it perform the effect which has a predetermined story characteristic, and perform the effect which displays the result of a story based on the jackpot determination and the determination result of a variation pattern.

Below the effect display device 9, a winning device having a first starting winning opening 13 is provided. The game ball that has won the first starting winning opening 13 is guided to the back surface of the game board 6 and detected by the first starting opening switch 13a.

Further, below the winning device having the first starting winning opening (first starting opening) 13, there is provided a variable winning ball device 15 having a second starting winning opening 14 in which game balls can be won. The game ball that has won the second start winning opening (second starting opening) 14 is guided to the back surface of the game board 6 and detected by the second starting opening switch 14a. The variable winning ball device 15 is opened by the solenoid 16. When the variable winning ball device 15 is opened, the game balls can be won into the second starting winning port 14 (starting winning is easy), which is advantageous for the player. In the state where the variable winning ball device 15 is in the open state, the game balls are easier to win in the second starting winning port 14 than in the first starting winning port 13. In addition, in the state where the variable winning ball device 15 is in the closed state, the game ball does not win the second starting winning port 14. Therefore, in the state where the variable winning ball device 15 is in the closed state, it is easier to win the game ball in the first starting winning opening 13 than in the second starting winning opening 14. In addition, while the variable winning ball device 15 is in a closed state, it may be difficult to win a prize, but it is possible to win the prize (that is, it is difficult for the game ball to win).

Hereinafter, the first start winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14 may be collectively referred to as a starting winning opening or a starting opening.

When the variable winning ball device 15 is controlled to be in the open state, the game ball heading for the variable winning ball device 15 is very easy to win the second starting winning port 14.

On the side of the first special symbol display device 8a, the number of effective winning balls that have entered the first starting winning opening 13, that is, the first reserved memory number (reserved memory is also referred to as starting memory or starting winning memory) is displayed. The 1st special symbol reservation storage indicator 18a which consists of 4 indicators is provided. The 1st special symbol reservation storage indicator 18a increases the number of the indicator which lights up whenever there is an effective starting winning a prize. Then, each time the variable display on the first special symbol display device 8a is started, the number of lighted display devices is reduced by one.

On the side of the second special symbol display device 8b, a second special symbol reserved memory display device 18b composed of four display devices for displaying the number of effective winning balls that have entered the second starting winning opening 14, that is, the second reserved memory number. Is provided. The second special symbol hold storage indicator 18b increases the number of indicators to be turned on by 1 each time there is an effective start winning. Then, each time the variable display on the second special symbol display device 8b is started, the number of lighted display devices is reduced by one.

In addition, in the lower part of the display screen of the effect display device 9, a total pending storage display unit 18c is provided that displays the total number (total pending storage number) that is the total of the first pending storage number and the second pending storage number. ing. In this embodiment, since the total pending storage display section 18c for displaying the total number is provided, it is possible to easily grasp the total number of the execution conditions that do not satisfy the variable display start condition. A first reserved storage display unit that displays the first reserved storage number and a second reserved storage display unit that displays the second reserved storage number may be provided.

The effect display device 9 is for decoration (for effect) during the variable display time of the first special symbol by the first special symbol display 8a and the variable display time of the second special symbol by the second special symbol display 8b. Variable display of the effect design as the design of. The variable display of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display 8a and the variable display of the effect symbol on the effect display device 9 are synchronized. Further, the variable display of the second special symbol on the second special symbol display device 8b and the variable display of the effect symbol on the effect display device 9 are synchronized. In addition, when the big hit symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a, and when the big hit symbol is stopped and displayed on the second special symbol display 8b, the effect display device 9 reminds of the big hit. The combination of is displayed stopped.

In this embodiment, as will be described later, the game control microcomputer 560 for controlling the variable display of the special symbol transmits a variation pattern command capable of specifying the variation time, and the effect control microcomputer 100 receives it. The variable display of the effect symbol is controlled according to the variable time specified by the changed pattern command. Therefore, since the variation time is specified based on the variation pattern command, the variation display of the special symbol and the variation display of the effect symbol are executed in synchronization. Synchronizing means that the change start timing and the change end timing are substantially the same.

Further, as shown in FIG. 1, a special variable winning ball device 20 is provided below the variable winning ball device 15. The special variable winning ball device 20 includes an opening/closing plate, and when the specific display result (big hit symbol) is derived and displayed on the first special symbol display device 8a, the specific display result (big hit symbol) on the second special symbol display device 8b. In the specific game state (big hit game state) that occurs when is displayed and displayed, the open/close plate is controlled by the solenoid 21 to be in the open state, so that the big winning opening, which is the winning area, is in the open state. The game ball that has won the special winning opening is detected by the count switch 23.

The gaming board 6 is also provided with winning holes (ordinary winning holes) 29, 30, 33, 39 for paying out a predetermined number of prize gaming balls determined in advance based on winning of the gaming balls. The game balls that have won the winning openings 29, 30, 33, 39 are detected by the winning opening switches 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a.

On the right side of the game board 6, a normal symbol display device 10 is provided. The normal symbol display 10 variably displays a plurality of types of identification information called normal symbols (for example, "○" and "x").

When the game ball passes through the gate 32 and is detected by the gate switch 32a, the variable display of the display of the normal symbol display device 10 is started. In this embodiment, the upper and lower lamps (the pattern becomes visible when turned on) are alternately turned on to perform variable display. For example, if the lower lamp is turned on at the end of variable display, it is a win. .. When the stop symbol on the normal symbol display 10 is a predetermined symbol (hit symbol), the variable winning ball device 15 is opened for a predetermined number of times and for a predetermined time. That is, the state of the variable winning ball device 15 is an advantageous state from a disadvantageous state to the player when the stop symbol of the normal symbol is a winning symbol (a state in which the game ball can be won in the second starting winning port 14). Changes to. In the vicinity of the normal symbol display device 10, there is provided a normal symbol reservation storage display device 41 having a display unit of four LEDs for displaying the number of winning balls that have passed through the gate 32. Every time there is a passage of the game ball to the gate 32, that is, every time the game ball is detected by the gate switch 32a, the normal symbol reservation storage display 41 increases the number of LEDs to be turned on by one. Then, every time the variable display of the normal symbol display device 10 is started, the number of LEDs to be turned on is reduced by 1. Furthermore, the probability change state that is more likely to be decided to be a big hit than the normal state (compared to the normal state, the state that the probability of being judged as a big hit as a variation display result of special symbols is increased) Then, the probability that the stop symbol on the normal symbol display 10 becomes a winning symbol is increased, and the opening time and the number of times of opening the variable winning ball device 15 are increased. Further, even in a time-saving state (a gaming state in which the variable display time of the special symbol is shortened) in which the variation time of the symbol is shortened, although not in the probability changing state, the opening time and the number of times of opening the variable winning ball device 15 are increased.

Around the left and right sides of the game area 7 of the game board 6, there are provided decorative LEDs 25 that are displayed blinking during the game, and at the bottom there is an outlet 26 into which hit balls that have not been won are taken. Further, two speakers 27 for producing sound effects and voices as predetermined voice outputs are provided on the upper left and right sides outside the game area 7. A frame LED 28 provided on the front frame is provided on the outer periphery of the game area 7.

The game machine drives a drive motor in response to the player operating the ball operation handle 5, and uses a rotational force of the drive motor to shoot a game ball into the game area 7 (not shown). ) Is provided. The game ball shot from the hitting ball launching device enters the game area 7 through a hit ball rail formed in a circular shape so as to surround the game area 7, and then descends from the game area 7. When the game ball enters the first starting winning opening 13 and is detected by the first starting opening switch 13a, if the variable display of the first special symbol can be started (for example, the variable display of the special symbol ends, 1 start condition is satisfied), the variable display (variation) of the first special symbol is started on the first special symbol display device 8a, and the variable display of the effect symbol is started on the effect display device 9. That is, the variable display of the first special symbol and the effect symbol corresponds to the winning of the first starting winning opening 13. Unless the variable display of the first special symbol can be started, the first reserved storage number is increased by 1 on condition that the first reserved storage number has not reached the upper limit value.

When the game ball enters the second starting winning opening 14 and is detected by the second starting opening switch 14a, if the variable display of the second special symbol can be started (for example, the variable display of the special symbol ends, 2 start condition is satisfied), the variable display (variation) of the second special symbol is started on the second special symbol display 8b, and the variable display of the effect symbol is started on the effect display device 9. That is, the variable display of the second special symbol and the effect symbol corresponds to the winning of the second start winning port 14. If the variable display of the second special symbol cannot be started, the second reserved storage number is increased by 1 on condition that the second reserved storage number has not reached the upper limit value.

Further, an operation button 150, which is an example of an operation means that can be operated by the player, is provided on a member forming the hit ball supply tray 3. It should be noted that an operation means such as rotation or pushdown may be used instead of pressing.

The operation button 150 includes a white LED 151 (for example, a red light emitting LED, a green light emitting LED, and a blue light emitting LED built therein), a red LED 152, and a vibrator 153 (also referred to as an eccentric motor or a driving device in the following description). There is. The operation button 150 is formed so that the player can visually recognize the colors of the white LED 151 and the red LED 152. When the vibrator 153 operates, the operation button 150 vibrates.

In this embodiment, in the case of a probability variation big hit, the game state shifts to a high probability state (probability variation state: a game state in which the probability of a big hit compared to the normal state is increased), and the game High base state (high frequency state) which is a game state controlled so that the ball easily starts winning (that is, the execution condition of the variable display in the special symbol display device 8 and the effect display device 9 is easily established). Move to. In the high base state, the frequency of the variable winning ball device 15 being in the open state is increased, or the time when the variable winning ball device 15 is in the open state is extended, as compared with the case of not being in the high base state. Then, it becomes easy to start winning.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the circuit configuration of the main board (game control board) 31. Note that FIG. 2 also shows the payout control board 37, the effect control board 80, and the like. On the main board 31, a game control microcomputer (corresponding to game control means) 560 for controlling the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to a program is mounted. The game control microcomputer 560 includes a ROM 54 that stores a program for game control (game progress control), a RAM 55 that is a storage unit used as a work memory, a CPU 56 that performs a control operation according to the program, and an I/O port unit 57. including. In this embodiment, the ROM 54 and the RAM 55 are built in the game control microcomputer 560. That is, the game control microcomputer 560 is a one-chip microcomputer. The one-chip microcomputer has at least the RAM 55 in addition to the CPU 56, and the ROM 54 may be external or internal. Further, the I/O port section 57 may be externally attached. The game control microcomputer 560 further includes a random number circuit 503 that generates a hardware random number (random number generated by a hardware circuit).

The RAM 55 is a backup RAM serving as a non-volatile storage means, a part or all of which is backed up by a backup power supply created in the power supply board 910. That is, even if the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, a part or all of the contents of the RAM 55 are saved for a predetermined period (until the capacitor as the backup power supply is discharged and the backup power supply cannot supply power). In particular, at least data corresponding to the game state, that is, the control state of the game control means (such as a special symbol process flag) and the data indicating the number of unpaid prize balls are stored in the backup RAM. The data according to the control state of the game control means is data necessary for restoring the control state before the occurrence of a power failure or the like based on the data when the power is restored after the power failure or the like. Further, the data according to the control state corresponds to data indicating the progress state of the game. In this embodiment, it is assumed that the entire RAM 55 is backed up by power supply.

Since the CPU 56 in the game control microcomputer 560 executes control in accordance with the program stored in the ROM 54, the following description means that the game control microcomputer 560 (or the CPU 56) executes (or performs processing). Specifically, the CPU 56 executes control according to a program. This also applies to the microcomputers mounted on other substrates than the main substrate 31.

The random number circuit 503 is a hardware circuit used to generate a random number for determination to determine whether or not to make a big hit based on the display result of the variable display of the special symbol. The random number circuit 503 has a random number generating function that updates the numerical data according to the set update rule within the numerical range in which the initial value (for example, 0) and the upper limit value (for example, 65535) are set. Then, the read numerical data is used as a random number value.

The random number circuit 503 has a selection setting function (a selection setting function of an initial value and a selection setting function of an upper limit value) of an update range of numerical data, a selection setting function of an update rule of numerical data, and a selection rule of update of numerical data. It has various functions such as a switching function. With such a function, the randomness of the generated random numbers can be improved.

Further, the game control microcomputer 560 has a function of setting an initial value of the numerical data updated by the random number circuit 503. For example, a predetermined calculation is performed using an ID number of the game control microcomputer 560 stored in a predetermined storage area such as the ROM 54 (an ID number assigned with a different numerical value for each product of the game control microcomputer 560). The numerical data thus obtained is set as the initial value of the numerical data updated by the random number circuit 503. By performing such processing, the randomness of the random numbers generated by the random number circuit 503 can be further improved.

In addition, the main board 31 is also provided with an input driver circuit 58 for providing the game control microcomputer 560 with detection signals from the gate switch 32a, the first starting opening switch 13a, the count switch 23, and the winning opening switches 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a. Has been done. Further, the output circuit 59 for driving the solenoid 16 for opening and closing the variable winning ball device 15 and the solenoid 21 for opening and closing the special variable winning ball device 20 forming the special winning opening in accordance with a command from the game control microcomputer 560 is also a main board. It is mounted on 31.

Further, the game control microcomputer 560, the first special symbol display device 8a, the second special symbol display device 8b, which variably displays the special symbol, the normal symbol display device 10, which variably displays the normal symbol, the first special symbol reserved storage. Display control of the display device 18a, the second special symbol reservation storage display device 18b and the normal symbol reservation storage display device 41 is performed.

An information output circuit (not shown) that outputs an information output signal such as big hit information indicating occurrence of a big hit game state to an external device such as a hall computer is also mounted on the main board 31.

In this embodiment, the effect control means (composed of effect control microcomputer) mounted on the effect control board 80 instructs the effect content from the game control microcomputer 560 via the relay board 77. The production control command is received, and display control of the production display device 9 that variably displays the production symbols is performed.

In addition, the production control means mounted on the production control board 80 controls the display of the decorative LED 25 provided on the game board and the frame LED 28 provided on the frame side via the lamp driver board 35. The sound output from the speaker 27 is controlled via the audio output board 70.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a circuit configuration example of the relay board 77, the effect control board 80, the lamp driver board 35, and the audio output board 70. In the example shown in FIG. 3, the lamp driver board 35 and the sound output board 70 are not equipped with a microcomputer, but may be equipped with a microcomputer. Further, without providing the lamp driver board 35 and the sound output board 70, only the effect control board 80 may be provided for effect control.

The production control board 80 is equipped with a production control CPU 101 and a production control microcomputer 100 including a RAM for storing information on production such as production pattern process flags. The RAM may be external. In this embodiment, the RAM in the effect control microcomputer 100 is not backed up by power supply. In the effect control board 80, the effect control CPU 101 operates according to a program stored in a built-in or external ROM (not shown), and receives a signal from the main board 31 input via the relay board 77 ( According to the effect control INT signal), the effect control command is received via the input driver 102 and the input port 103. Further, the effect control CPU 101 causes the VDP (video display processor) 109 to perform display control of the effect display device 9 based on the effect control command.

In this embodiment, the VDP 109 that cooperates with the effect control microcomputer 100 to control the display of the effect display device 9 is mounted on the effect control board 80. The VDP 109 has an address space independent of the effect control microcomputer 100, and maps the VRAM therein. VRAM is a buffer memory for expanding image data. Then, the VDP 109 outputs the image data in the VRAM to the effect display device 9 via the frame memory.

The effect control CPU 101 outputs to the VDP 109 a command for reading necessary data from a CGROM (not shown) in accordance with the received effect control command. The CGROM stores in advance character image data and moving image data displayed on the effect display device 9, specifically, characters, characters, figures and symbols (including effect patterns), and background image data. ROM for this. The VDP 109 reads the image data from the CGROM according to a command from the effect control CPU 101. Then, the VDP 109 executes display control based on the read image data.

The effect control command and the effect control INT signal are first input to the input driver 102 in the effect control board 80. The input driver 102 passes the signal input from the relay board 77 only in the direction toward the inside of the effect control board 80 (does not pass the signal from the inside of the effect control board 80 to the relay board 77). Signal direction It is also a unidirectional circuit as a regulation means.

As a signal direction restricting means, the signal input from the main board 31 is allowed to pass through the relay board 77 only in the direction toward the effect control board 80 (the signal is not passed in the direction from the effect control board 80 to the relay board 77). The unidirectional circuit 74 is mounted. For example, a diode or a transistor is used as the unidirectional circuit. A diode is illustrated in FIG. Further, the unidirectional circuit is provided for each signal. Furthermore, since the production control command and the production control INT signal are output from the main board 31 via the output port 571 which is a unidirectional circuit, the signal from the relay board 77 to the inside of the main board 31 is restricted. That is, the signal from the relay board 77 does not enter the inside of the main board 31 (on the side of the game control microcomputer 560). The output port 571 is a part of the I/O port unit 57 shown in FIG. Further, a signal driver circuit that is a unidirectional circuit may be further provided outside the output port 571 (on the side of the relay board 77).

In addition, the effect control CPU 101 inputs, via the input port 107, an operation signal (press signal) corresponding to a pressing operation on the operation button 150 by the player from the operation button 150.

In addition, the effect control CPU 101 gives a drive signal to the white LED 151, the red LED 152, and the vibrator 153 via the output port 106.

Further, the effect control CPU 101 outputs a signal for driving the LED to the lamp driver board 35 via the output port 105. The effect control CPU 101 also outputs sound number data to the sound output board 70 via the output port 104.

In the lamp driver board 35, a signal for driving an LED is input to the LED driver 352 via the input driver 351. The LED driver 352 supplies a current to a light emitting body provided on the frame side such as the frame LED 28 based on a signal for driving the LED. In addition, electric current is supplied to the decorative LED 25 provided on the game board side.

In the voice output board 70, the sound number data is input to the voice synthesis IC 703 via the input driver 702. The voice synthesis IC 703 generates a voice or sound effect corresponding to the sound number data and outputs it to the amplifier circuit 705. The amplifier circuit 705 amplifies the output level of the voice synthesizing IC 703 to a level corresponding to the volume set by the volume 706 and outputs the audio signal to the speaker 27. The voice data ROM 704 stores control data according to the tone number data. The control data according to the sound number data is a collection of data indicating the output mode of the sound effect or the sound in a predetermined period (for example, the variation period of the effect symbol) in time series.

Next, the operation of the gaming machine will be described. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing the main processing executed by the game control microcomputer 560 on the main board 31. When power is supplied to the gaming machine and power supply is started, the input level of the reset terminal to which the reset signal is input becomes high level, and the gaming control microcomputer 560 (specifically, CPU 56) After the security check process, which is a process for confirming whether or not the content of the program is valid, the main process after step S1 is started. In the main process, the CPU 56 first makes necessary initial settings.

In the initial setting process, the CPU 56 first sets the interrupt prohibition (step S1). Next, the interrupt mode is set to the interrupt mode 2 (step S2), and the stack pointer designated address is set to the stack pointer (step S3). After initialization of the built-in device (initialization of CTC (counter/timer) and PIO (parallel input/output port) which are built-in devices (built-in peripheral circuits)) (step S4), the RAM can be accessed. Is set (step S5). In the interrupt mode 2, an address synthesized from the value (1 byte) of the specific register (I register) built in the CPU 56 and the interrupt vector (1 byte: least significant bit 0) output by the built-in device is This is a mode indicating an interrupt address.

Next, the CPU 56 confirms the state of the output signal (clear signal) of the clear switch (for example, mounted on the power supply board) input through the input port (step S6). When ON is detected in the confirmation, the CPU 56 executes normal initialization processing (steps S10 to S15).

If the clear switch is not on, check whether the backup RAM area data protection process (eg, power supply stop process such as addition of parity data) has been performed when the power supply to the gaming machine was stopped. Yes (step S7). After confirming that such protection processing is not performed, the CPU 56 executes initialization processing. Whether or not there is backup data in the backup RAM area is confirmed, for example, by the state of the backup flag set in the backup RAM area in the power supply stoppage process.

After confirming that the power supply stop processing has been performed, the CPU 56 checks the data in the backup RAM area (step S8). In this embodiment, a parity check is performed as a data check. Therefore, in step S8, the calculated checksum is compared with the checksum calculated and stored by the same process in the power supply stop process. When the power is restored after an unexpected power failure such as a power failure, the check result (comparison result) becomes normal (match) because the data in the backup RAM area should have been saved. If the check result is not normal, it means that the data in the backup RAM area is different from the data when the power supply was stopped. In such a case, since the internal state cannot be returned to the state when the power supply was stopped, the initialization process that is executed when the power is turned on, not when the power supply is restored from the stop, is executed.

If the check result is normal, the CPU 56 restores the internal state of the game control means and the control state of the electric component control means such as the effect control means to the state when the power supply was stopped (steps S41 to S43). Processing). Specifically, the start address of the backup setting table stored in the ROM 54 is set to the pointer (step S41), and the contents of the backup setting table are sequentially set to the work area (area in the RAM 55) (step S42). ). The work area is backed up by a backup power supply. In the backup setting table, the initialization data of the area that may be initialized in the work area is set. By the processing of steps S41 and S42, the saved contents of the work area that should not be initialized remain unchanged. The part that should not be initialized is, for example, data indicating the game state before the power supply is stopped (special symbol process flag, probability variation flag, time saving flag, etc.), the area where the output state of the output port is saved (output port buffer ), a part in which data indicating the number of unpaid prize balls is set.

Further, the CPU 56 transmits a power failure recovery designation command as an initialization command at the time of power supply recovery (step S43). Further, the CPU 56 transmits a display result designation command designating the display result stored in the backup RAM to the effect control board 80 (step S44). Then, the process proceeds to step S14.

In this embodiment, the backup RAM area also stores the value of the variable time timer described later. Therefore, when the power is restored, after the display result designation command is transmitted in step S44, the measurement of the value of the variable time timer that has been saved is restarted and the variable display of the special symbol is restarted and saved. When the value of the variable time timer that has been used has timed out, a symbol confirmation designation command to be described later is transmitted. Further, in this embodiment, the value of a special symbol process flag described later is also stored in the backup RAM area. Therefore, when the power failure is restored, the special symbol process process is restarted from the process corresponding to the value of the special symbol process flag that is saved.

It should be noted that the CPU 56 may first check whether or not the value of the variable time timer stored in the backup RAM area is 0, instead of always transmitting the display result designation command when the power is restored. .. If the value of the variable time timer is not 0, it is determined that a power failure has occurred during the change, and a display result designation command is transmitted. It may be determined that the state has not been reached and the display result designation command may not be transmitted.

Further, the CPU 56 may first check whether or not the value of the special symbol process flag stored in the backup RAM area is 3. Then, if the value of the special symbol process flag is 3, it is determined that there is a power failure during the fluctuation, and the display result designation command is transmitted. If the special symbol process flag is not 3, it fluctuates during a power failure. It may be determined that the display result designation command has not been received, and the display result designation command may not be transmitted.

In this embodiment, both the backup flag and the check data are used to check whether the data in the backup RAM area is stored, but only one of them may be used. That is, either the backup flag or the check data may be used as a trigger for executing the game state recovery process.

In the initialization process, the CPU 56 first performs a RAM clear process (step S10). By the RAM clearing process, predetermined data (for example, the data of the count value of the counter for generating the random number for determining a normal symbol) is initialized to 0, but an arbitrary value or a predetermined value It may be initialized to. Further, the predetermined data (for example, the data of the count value of the counter for normally generating the random number for determination per symbol) may be left as it is without initializing the entire area of the RAM 55. Further, the start address of the initialization setting table stored in the ROM 54 is set to the pointer (step S11), and the contents of the initialization setting table are sequentially set to the work area (step S12).

By the processing of steps S11 and S12, for example, a normal random number counter for symbol determination, a special symbol buffer, a total prize ball number storage buffer, a special symbol process flag, etc. Initially set to a flag for selectively performing processing according to the control state. The value is set.

Further, the CPU 56 initializes a sub board (a board on which a microcomputer other than the main board 31 is mounted) for initialization (a command indicating that the game control microcomputer 560 has executed the initialization process). Is also transmitted to the sub-board (step S13). For example, when the effect control microcomputer 100 receives the initialization designation command, the effect display device 9 performs a screen display for notifying that the control of the gaming machine has been initialized, that is, initialization notification.

Further, the CPU 56 executes a random number circuit setting process for initializing the random number circuit 503 (step S14). The CPU 56 makes settings for causing the random number circuit 503 to update the value of the random R, for example, by executing processing in accordance with the random number circuit setting program.

Then, in step S15, the CPU 56 sets the register of the CTC built in the game control microcomputer 560 so that a timer interrupt is taken periodically at predetermined time intervals (for example, 2 ms). That is, a value corresponding to, for example, 2 ms is set in a predetermined register (time constant register) as an initial value. In this embodiment, it is assumed that a timer interrupt is taken every 2 ms.

When the execution of the initialization process (steps S10 to S15) is completed, the CPU 56 repeatedly executes the display random number updating process (step S17) and the initial value random number updating process (step S18) in the main process. When the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process are executed, the interrupt prohibited state is set (step S16), and when the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process are completed, the interrupt permitted state is set. It is set (step S19). In this embodiment, the display random number is a random number for determining the stop symbol of the special symbol when the big hit is not made, and a random number for determining whether or not the reach is made when the big hit is not made. The random number updating process is a process of updating the count value of the counter for generating the display random number. The initial value random number updating process is a process of updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random numbers. In this embodiment, the initial value random number is the initial value of the count value of the counter (normal symbol per determination random number generation counter) for generating a random number for determining whether or not to hit the normal symbol It is a random number for determining. A game control process for controlling the progress of a game to be described later (the game control microcomputer 560 controls, by itself, a game display device such as an effect display device, a variable winning ball device, and a ball payout device provided in the game machine. In the process of, or the process of transmitting a command signal to control other microcomputers, also referred to as game device control process), the count value of the random number per ordinary symbol is one round (ordinary random number for determination per symbol is taken. When the number of numerical values between the minimum value and the maximum value of the possible values has been increased), the initial value is set to the counter.

In this embodiment, the reach effect is executed by using effect symbols variably displayed on the effect display device 9. Moreover, when the display result of the special symbol is a big hit symbol, the reach effect is always executed. When the display result of the special symbol is not a big hit symbol, the CPU 56 determines whether or not the reach effect is executed by performing a lottery for determining a variation pattern using a random number. However, it is the production control microcomputer 100 that actually executes the reach production control.

When the timer interrupt occurs, the CPU 56 executes the timer interrupt process of steps S20 to S34 shown in FIG. In the timer interrupt process, first, a power-off detection process is executed to detect whether a power-off signal has been output (whether or not it has been turned on) (step S20). The power-off signal is output, for example, when the power supply monitoring circuit mounted on the power supply board detects a decrease in the voltage of the power supply supplied to the gaming machine. Then, in the power-off detection process, when the CPU 56 detects that the power-off signal has been output, the CPU 56 executes a power supply stop time process for storing necessary data in the backup RAM area. Then, the detection signals of the gate switch 32a, the second starting port switch 14a, and the count switch 23 are input via the input driver circuit 58, and the states of these signals are determined (switch processing: step S21).

Next, the CPU 56 executes the display control process for controlling the display of the special symbol display device 8, the normal symbol display device 10, the special symbol reservation storage display device 18, and the normal symbol reservation storage display device 41 (step S22). Regarding the special symbol display 8 and the normal symbol display 10, control is performed to output a drive signal to each display according to the contents of the output buffer set in steps S32 and S33.

In addition, a process for updating the count value of each counter for generating each determination random number such as a normal symbol per determination random number used for game control is performed (determination random number update process: step S23). The CPU 56 further performs a process of updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number and the display random number (initial value random number updating process, display random number updating process: steps S24 and S25).

Further, the CPU 56 performs a special symbol process process (step S26). In the special symbol process process, in the special symbol process process, the first special symbol display device 8a, the second special symbol display device 8b and the special symbol process flag for controlling the special winning opening in a predetermined order, the corresponding process is executed. To do. The CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag according to the gaming state.

Then, a normal symbol process process is performed (step S27). In the normal symbol process process, the CPU 56 executes a corresponding process according to the normal symbol process flag for controlling the display state of the normal symbol display device 10 in a predetermined order. The CPU 56 updates the value of the normal symbol process flag according to the gaming state.

Further, the CPU 56 performs a process of sending a production control command to the production control microcomputer 100 (production control command control process: step S28).

Further, the CPU 56 performs an information output process for outputting data such as big hit information, start information, and probability variation information supplied to the hall management computer (step S29).

Further, the CPU 56 executes prize ball processing such as setting the number of prize balls based on the detection signals of the first starting port switch 13a, the second starting port switch 14a and the count switch 23 (step S30). Specifically, in accordance with a winning detection based on that any one of the first starting opening switch 13a, the second starting opening switch 14a and the count switch 23 is turned on, a payout control micro mounted on the payout control board 37. A payout control command (award ball number signal) indicating the number of award balls is output to the computer. The payout control microcomputer drives the ball payout device 97 in response to a payout control command indicating the number of prize balls.

In this embodiment, the RAM area (output port buffer) corresponding to the output state of the output port is provided, but the CPU 56 relates to ON/OFF of the solenoid in the RAM area corresponding to the output state of the output port. The content is output to the output port (step S31: output process).

Further, the CPU 56 performs a special symbol display control process for setting special symbol display control data for performing a special symbol effect display according to the value of the special symbol process flag in the output buffer for setting the special symbol display control data ( Step S32).

Further, the CPU 56 performs a normal symbol display control process for setting the normal symbol display control data for performing the effect display of the normal symbol in the output buffer for setting the normal symbol display control data according to the value of the normal symbol process flag ( Step S33). CPU56, for example, until the end flag is set when the start flag related to the variation of the normal symbol, the variation speed of the normal symbol switches the display state ("○" and "x") every 0.2 seconds. At such a speed, the value of the display control data set in the output buffer (for example, 1 indicating “◯” and 0 indicating “x”) is switched every 0.2 seconds. Further, the CPU 56 outputs the drive signal in step S22 in accordance with the display control data set in the output buffer, thereby performing the effect display of the normal symbol on the normal symbol display device 10.

After that, the interrupt permission state is set (step S34), and the process ends.

By the above control, in this embodiment, the game control process is activated every 2 ms. The game control process corresponds to the process of steps S21 to S33 (excluding step S29) in the timer interrupt process. Further, in this embodiment, the game control process is executed by the timer interrupt process, but in the timer interrupt process, for example, only a flag indicating that an interrupt has occurred is set, and the game control process is the main process. May be executed in.

By the above control, in this embodiment, the game control process is activated every 2 ms. The game control process corresponds to the process of steps S21 to S33 (excluding step S29) in the timer interrupt process. Further, in this embodiment, the game control process is executed by the timer interrupt process, but in the timer interrupt process, for example, only a flag indicating that an interrupt has occurred is set, and the game control process is the main process. May be executed in.

FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing each random number. Each random number is used as follows.
(1) Random 1: Determine the type of jackpot (probable variation jackpot, normal jackpot) (for jackpot type determination)
(2) Random 2: Determine (variation time) of variation pattern (for determination of variation pattern)
(3) Random 3: Determine whether to generate a hit based on the normal symbol (for determining the normal symbol hit)
(4) Random 4: Determine the initial value of Random 3 (for determining the initial value of Random 3)

In step S23 in the game control processing shown in FIG. 6, the game control microcomputer 560 is a counter for generating the random number for jackpot type determination of (1) and the random number for determination of normal symbol per item of (3). Count up (add 1). That is, those are the determination random numbers, and the other random numbers are the display random numbers (random 2) or the initial value random numbers (random 4). Note that random numbers other than the above random numbers may be used to enhance the game effect. In addition, in this embodiment, a random number generated by hardware built in the game control microcomputer 560 (which may be hardware outside the game control microcomputer 560) is used as the big hit determination random number.

FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing a big hit determination table. The big hit determination table is a set of data stored in the ROM 54, and is a table in which a big hit determination value to be compared with the random R is set. The jackpot determination table includes a normal jackpot determination table used in a normal state (a gaming state that is not the probability changed state) and a probability variation jackpot determination table used in the probability changed state. In the normal-time jackpot determination table, the numerical values described in the left column of FIG. 7(A) are set, and in the probability variation jackpot determination table, the numerical values described in the right column of FIG. 7(A). Is set. The numerical value described in FIG. 7(A) is a jackpot determination value.

The CPU 56 extracts the count value of the random number circuit 503 at a predetermined time and uses the extracted value as the value of the big hit determination random number (random R). The big hit determination random number value is shown in FIG. 7(A). If any of the jackpot determination values are matched, it is determined that the special symbols are to be a jackpot (probable variation jackpot or normal jackpot). The “probability” shown in FIG. 7(A) indicates the probability (ratio) of a big hit. Also, to determine whether to make a big hit, it means to decide whether to shift to the big hit gaming state, but to decide whether to make a big hit symbol the stop symbol in the special symbol display 8 That is also the case.

FIG. 7B is an explanatory diagram showing a jackpot type determination table stored in the ROM 54. The jackpot type determination table, when it is determined that the variable display result is a jackpot pattern, the jackpot type is determined to be “normal jackpot” or “probable variation jackpot” based on the jackpot type determination random number (random 2). It is a table that is referred to in order to determine one of them. In the big hit type judgment table, judgment values (big hit type judgment values), which are numerical values to be compared with the value of Random 1 and respectively correspond to “normal big hit” and “probable variation big hit”, are set. When the value of Random 1 matches any of the jackpot type determination values, the CPU 56 determines the type of the jackpot as the type corresponding to the matched jackpot type determination value.

The "normal big hit" is a big hit that the big winning hole is opened 15 times (15 rounds) during the big hit game, and when the big hit game ends, the gaming state is shifted to an indeterminate change state (low probability state). Also, when the big hit game is over, the game state shifts to a time saving state (high base state). The time saving state continues until the variable display (fluctuation) of the special symbol is executed 100 times. The "probable variation jackpot" is a jackpot that the winning state is opened 15 times (15 rounds) during the jackpot game, and when the jackpot game ends, the gaming state is shifted to the probability variation state (high probability state). Also, when the big hit game is over, the game state shifts to a time saving state (high base state). The time-saving state continues until the next big hit occurs. In this embodiment, the types of big hits include "normal big hits" and "probable variation big hits", but other big hit types may be used.

FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a variation pattern used in this embodiment. In FIG. 8, "EXT" indicates the second byte of EXT data in the effect control command having a 2-byte structure. Further, "time" indicates a variation time of the special symbol (variable display period of identification information).

In the example shown in FIG. 8, each variation pattern of the special symbol is determined to be an outlier or a big hit, whether or not to reach, and depending on a difference in various effect modes such as a reach mode in the case of reach. Multiple types are available. The reach effect is executed in the effect display device 9 which is controlled by the effect control microcomputer 100.

The “normal fluctuation” is a fluctuation pattern that does not involve the reach mode. “Reach A” is a variation pattern accompanied by a predetermined reach mode (for example, normal reach effect). “Reach B” is a variation pattern involving a reach mode (for example, super reach effect) different from “reach A”. The different reach mode means that different modes (velocity, rotation direction, etc.) are varied or a character or the like appears in the reach variation time. In addition, in "reach A" and "reach B", there are cases where a big hit occurs and cases where a big hit does not occur.

FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of contents of the effect control command transmitted by the game control microcomputer 560. In the example shown in FIG. 9, the command 80XX(H) is a production control command (including variation time information) that specifies a variation pattern of the effect symbols that are variably displayed on the effect display device 9 corresponding to the variable display of the special symbols. Fluctuation pattern command) (corresponding to fluctuation pattern XX, respectively). That is, when a unique number is given to each of the usable fluctuation patterns shown in FIG. 8, there is a fluctuation pattern command corresponding to each of the fluctuation patterns specified by the number. In addition, "(H)" indicates that it is a hexadecimal number. The effect control command for designating the variation pattern is also a command for designating the variation start. Therefore, when the effect control microcomputer 100 receives the command 80XX(H), the effect control microcomputer 100 controls the effect display device 9 to start variable display of effect symbols.

The commands 8C01(H) to 8C03(H) are effect control commands capable of specifying whether or not to make a big hit and a big hit type. Since the effect control microcomputer 100 determines the display result of the effect symbol in response to the reception of the commands 8C01(H) to 8C03(H), the commands 8C01(H) to 8C03(H) are referred to as display result designation commands.

Command 8D01 (H) is a production control command (first symbol variation designation command) indicating that variable display (variation) of the first special symbol is started. Command 8D02 (H) is a production control command (second symbol variation designation command) indicating that variable display (variation) of the second special symbol is started. The first symbol variation designation command and the second symbol variation designation command may be collectively referred to as a special symbol identification command (or symbol variation designation command). The variable pattern command may include information indicating whether to start the variable display of the first special symbol or the variable display of the second special symbol.

Command 8F00 (H) is a production control command (design determination designation command) indicating that the variable display (variation) of the effect design (decorative design) is ended and the display result (stop design) is derived and displayed. When the production control microcomputer 100 receives the symbol confirmation designation command, the variable display (fluctuation) of the production symbols is ended and the display result is derived and displayed.

The command 9000 (H) is an effect control command (initialization designation command: power-on designation command) transmitted when power supply to the gaming machine is started. Command 9200 (H) is an effect control command (power failure recovery designation command) transmitted when power supply to the gaming machine is restarted. When the power supply to the gaming machine is started, the gaming control microcomputer 560 transmits a power failure recovery designation command if data is stored in the backup RAM, and otherwise, initializes it. Send a command.

The command 9F00 (H) is a production control command (customer waiting demo designation command) that specifies a customer waiting demonstration.

The command A001 (H) is a display control command for displaying a fanfare screen, that is, a start of a big hit game (hereinafter, also referred to as a big hit start designation command or a fanfare designation command).

The command A1XX(H) is an effect control command (a special winning opening open designation command) indicating a display during opening of the special winning opening for the number (round) indicated by XX. A2XX(H) is an effect control command (designated command after opening the special winning opening) indicating the closing of the special winning opening for the number (round) indicated by XX.

Command A301 (H) is a production control command (big hit end designation command) for displaying the big hit end screen, that is, designating the end of the big hit game.

Command B001 (H) is an effect control command (low base state designation command) indicating that the game state is the low base state. Command B002 (H) is an effect control command (high base state designation command) indicating that the game state is in the high base state. Command B003 (H) is an effect control command (non-probability variation state designation command) indicating that the gaming state is not the probable variation state. Command B004 (H) is a production control command (probability variation state designation command) indicating that the game state is the probability variation state.

The low base state designation command, the high base state designation command, the non-probability variation state designation command and the probability variation state designation command may be collectively referred to as a game state designation command.

Command C2XX (H) is an effect control command (total reserved storage number specification command) that specifies the total number (total reserved storage number) that is the sum of the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory number. “XX” in the command C2XX(H) indicates the total pending storage number. Command C300 (H) is an effect control command (total addition storage number subtraction designation command) that specifies subtraction of the total addition storage number by 1. In this embodiment, the game control microcomputer 560 transmits a summed reserved storage number subtraction designation command when subtracting the summed reserved storage number, but does not use the summed reserved storage number subtraction designation command, When subtracting the total pending storage number, a total pending storage number designating command for designating the total pending storage number after the subtraction may be transmitted.

In this embodiment, when the big hit symbol is stopped and displayed on the special symbol display device 8, the reach effect is executed after the variable display state of the effect symbol is changed to the reach state, and finally the effect display device. In the symbol display areas 9L, 9C, 9R of "left", "middle", and "right" in 9, the effect symbols are stopped and displayed together.

In this embodiment, the effect control command has a 2-byte structure, the first byte represents MODE (command classification), and the second byte represents EXT (command type). The first bit (bit 7) of MODE data is always set to "1", and the first bit (bit 7) of EXT data is always set to "0". Note that such a command form is an example, and other command forms may be used. For example, a control command composed of 1 byte or 3 bytes or more may be used.

As a production control command transmission method, the production control command data is output from the main board 31 to the production control board 80 via the relay board 77 one byte at a time by eight parallel signal lines of the production control signals CD0 to CD7. In addition to the production control command data, a method of outputting a pulse-shaped (rectangular wave) capture signal (production control INT signal) for instructing capture of the production control command data is used. 8-bit production control command data of the production control command is output in synchronization with the production control INT signal. The effect control microcomputer 100 mounted on the effect control board 80 detects that the effect control INT signal has risen, and starts the process of fetching 1-byte data by the interrupt process.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a program of special symbol process processing (step S26) executed by the game control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56). As described above, in the special symbol process process, the process for controlling the first special symbol display device 8a or the second special symbol display device 8b and the special winning opening is executed. In the special symbol process processing, the CPU 56 detects that the game ball has won the first start winning opening switch 13a or the second start winning hole 14 for detecting that the game ball has won the first starting winning opening 13. If the second starting opening switch 14a for turning on is turned on, that is, if the starting winning prize for the first starting winning opening 13 or the second starting opening switch 14a has occurred, the first starting opening switch passage processing is executed ( Steps S311, S312). Then, any one of steps S300 to S307 is performed.

The processes of steps S300 to S307 are the following processes.

Special symbol normal processing (step S300): is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 0. The game control microcomputer 560, when the variable display of the special symbol can be started, confirms the storage number of the numerical data stored in the storage buffer number (total storage number). The number of stored numerical data stored in the reserved storage number buffer can be confirmed by the count value of the total reserved storage number counter. Also, if the count value of the total pending storage number counter is not 0, it is determined whether or not the display result of the variable display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol is a big hit. When making a big hit, the big hit flag is set. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (1 in this example) according to step S301. The jackpot flag is reset when the jackpot game is over.

Variation pattern setting process (step S301): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 1. In addition, the variation pattern is determined, and the variation time in the variation pattern (variable display time: the time from the start of the variable display until the derivation display (stop display) of the display result) is the variation time of the variable display of the special symbol Decide to do. In addition, the fluctuation time timer which measures the fluctuation time of the special design is started. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (2 in this example) corresponding to step S302.

Display result designation command transmission process (step S302): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 2. The control for transmitting the display result designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 is performed. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (3 in this example) corresponding to step S303.

Special symbol fluctuation process (step S303): is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 3. When the variation time of the variation pattern selected in the variation pattern setting process elapses (the variation time timer set in step S301 times out, that is, the value of the variation time timer becomes 0), the effect control microcomputer 100 determines the symbol. Control to transmit the designated command is performed, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (4 in this example) corresponding to step S304.

Special symbol stop process (step S304): is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 4. When the big hit flag is set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (5 in this example) corresponding to step S305. If the big hit flag is not set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (0 in this example) corresponding to step S300. In this embodiment, based on the value of the special symbol process flag being 4, as will be described later, the special symbol display control for stopping and displaying the stop symbol of the special symbol in the special symbol display control process. The data is set in the output buffer for the special symbol display control data setting, and the stop symbol of the special symbol is actually stopped and displayed in accordance with the setting contents of the output buffer in the display control process of step S22.

Special winning opening opening pre-processing (step S305): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 5. In the special winning opening opening pre-processing, control for opening the special winning opening is performed. Specifically, a counter (for example, a counter that counts the number of game balls that have entered the special winning opening) is initialized, and the solenoid 21 is driven to open the special winning opening. Further, the execution time of the special winning opening opening process is set by the timer, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (6 in this example) corresponding to step S306. Note that the special winning opening opening pre-processing is executed for each round, but when the first round is started, the special winning opening opening pre-processing is also processing for starting a big hit game.

Special winning opening opening process (step S306): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 6. The control for transmitting the effect control command of the round display during the big hit game state to the effect control microcomputer 100, the processing for confirming the establishment of the closing condition of the special winning opening, and the like are performed. If the closing condition for the special winning opening is satisfied, and if there are still remaining rounds, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to the value corresponding to step S305 (5 in this example). When all rounds are completed, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to the value corresponding to step S307 (7 in this example).

Big hit end processing (step S307): is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 7. The control for causing the effect control microcomputer 100 to perform display control for notifying the player that the jackpot gaming state has ended. Also, a process of setting a flag indicating the gaming state (for example, a probability variation flag or a time saving flag) is performed. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (0 in this example) corresponding to step S300.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the starting port switch passage processing in step S312.

In the starting opening switch passage processing, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the first starting opening switch 13a is turned on (step S211A). If the first starting opening switch 13a is turned on, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the value of the first reserved memory number counter for counting the first reserved memory number is 4 which is the upper limit value (step). S212A). If the value of the first pending storage number counter is 4, the process proceeds to step S211B.

If the first reserved storage number has not reached the upper limit value, the CPU 56 increments the value of the first reserved storage number counter by 1 (step S213A), and at the same time, the value of the total reserved storage number counter for counting the total reserved storage number. Is incremented by 1 (step S214A). In addition, in the reserved memory specific information storage area (reserved specific area) for storing the winning order to the first start winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14, in an area corresponding to the value of the total reserved memory number counter, Data indicating "first" is set (step S215A).

In this embodiment, when the first start opening switch 13a is in the ON state (that is, when the game ball starts winning in the first start winning opening 13), data indicating "first" is set, When the second start opening switch 14a is turned on (that is, when the game ball enters the second start winning opening 14 for a start winning), data indicating "second" is set. For example, the CPU 56 sets 01 (H) as data indicating “first” when the first starting opening switch 13a is turned on in the reserved storage specific information storage area (reserved specific area), When the 2 start port switch 14a is turned on, 02 (H) is set as data indicating "second". In this case, if there is no corresponding pending storage, 00(H) is set in the pending storage specifying information storage area (holding specific area).

FIG. 12A is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of the reserved storage specifying information storage area (holding specified area). As shown in FIG. 12A, an area corresponding to the maximum value (8 in this example) of the value of the total pending storage number counter is secured in the reserved specific area. Note that FIG. 12A shows an example in which the value of the total pending storage number counter is 5. As shown in FIG. 12A, an area corresponding to the maximum value (8 in this example) of the value of the total reserved storage number counter is secured in the reserved specific area, and the first start winning opening 13 or the second start Based on the winning in the winning opening 14, data indicating "first" or "second" is set in the winning order. Therefore, the winning order to the first starting winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14 is stored in the holding storage specific information storage area (holding specific area). The reserved specific area is formed in the RAM 55.

Next, the CPU 56 extracts the values from the random number circuit 503 and the counter for generating the software random number, and stores them in the storage area of the first reserved storage buffer (step S216A). In the process of step S216A, a random number R (big hit determination random number) that is a hardware random number, a big hit type determination random number (random 1) and a variation pattern determination random number (random 2) that are software random numbers are extracted and stored in the storage area. Stored in. It should be noted that the random number for determining the variation pattern (random 2) is not extracted and stored in the storage area in advance in the starting opening switch passage process (at the time of winning a prize), but is extracted at the beginning of the variation of the first special symbol. May be. For example, the game control microcomputer 560 may extract a value from a fluctuation pattern determination random number counter for generating a fluctuation pattern determination random number (random 2) in a fluctuation pattern setting process described later.

FIG. 12B is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of a storage area (holding buffer) such as a random number corresponding to the holding storage. As shown in FIG. 12B, a storage area corresponding to the upper limit value (4 in this example) of the first reserved storage number is secured in the first reserved storage buffer. In addition, a storage area corresponding to the upper limit value (4 in this example) of the second reserved storage number is secured in the second reserved storage buffer. The first pending storage buffer and the second pending storage buffer are formed in the RAM 55. Formed in the RAM means an area in the RAM.

In addition, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit the total reserved storage number designation command to the effect control CPU 101 (step S218A).

When transmitting the effect control command to the effect control microcomputer 100, the CPU 56 sets the pointer to the address of the command transmission table (preliminarily set in the ROM for each command) corresponding to the effect control command. .. Then, the address of the command transmission table corresponding to the effect control command is set in the pointer, and the effect control command is transmitted in the effect control command control process (step S28).

Then, it is confirmed whether or not the second starting port switch 14a is turned on (step S211B). If the second starting port switch 14a is turned on, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the value of the second reserved storage number counter for counting the second reserved storage number is 4 which is the upper limit value (step). S212B). If the value of the second reserved storage number counter is 4, the process ends.

If the value of the second pending storage number counter is not 4, the CPU 56 increments the value of the second pending storage number counter by 1 (step S213B), and increments the value of the total pending storage number counter by 1 (step S214B).

Further, the CPU 56 sets the data indicating “second” in the area corresponding to the value of the total pending storage number counter in the pending storage specific information storage area (holding specific area) (step S215B).

Then, the CPU 56 extracts the values from the random number circuit 503 and the counter for generating the software random number and stores them in the storage area of the second reserved storage buffer (step S216B). In the process of step S216B, a random number R (big hit determination random number) that is a hardware random number, a big hit type determination random number (random 1) and a variation pattern determination random number (random 2) that are software random numbers are extracted and stored in the storage area. Stored in. It should be noted that the random number for fluctuation pattern determination (random 2) is not extracted and stored in the storage area in advance in the starting port switch passage process (at the time of starting winning), but is extracted at the time when the fluctuation of the second special symbol is started. May be. For example, the game control microcomputer 560 may extract a value from a fluctuation pattern determination random number counter for generating a fluctuation pattern determination random number (random 2) in the fluctuation pattern setting process.

In addition, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit the total reserved storage number designation command to the effect control CPU 101 (step S218B).

13 and 14 are flowcharts showing the special symbol normal process (step S300) in the special symbol process process. In the special symbol normal process, the CPU 56 confirms the value of the total number of pending storages (step S51). Specifically, the count value of the total pending storage number counter is confirmed. If the total number of pending storages is 0, the process ends.

If the total pending storage number is not 0, the CPU 56 confirms whether the first data among the data set in the pending specific area (see FIG. 12A) is the data indicating “first”. Yes (step S52). If the first data set in the reserved specific area is not data indicating "first" (that is, data indicating "second"), the CPU 56 is a special symbol pointer (special symbol for the first special symbol). Data indicating "second" is set to a flag indicating whether the process is being processed or the special symbol process is being performed for the second special symbol (step S53). When the first data set in the reserved specific area is data indicating "first", the CPU 56 sets data indicating "first" in the special symbol pointer (step S54).

By executing the processing of steps S52 to S54, in this embodiment, the first special symbol changes according to the starting winning order in which the game balls win the first starting winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14. Display or variable display of the second special symbol is executed.

In addition, with respect to the variation (variable display) of the first special symbol, the variation of the second special symbol may be preferentially executed. That is, the CPU 56 controls so that the second start condition for starting the variable display of the second special symbol has priority over the first start condition for starting the variable display of the first special symbol. May be.

Next, in the RAM 55, the CPU 56 reads out each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the number of reserved memories=1 indicated by the special symbol pointer and stores it in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55 (step S55). Specifically, the CPU 56, when the special symbol pointer indicates “first”, the random numbers stored in the storage area corresponding to the first reserved storage number=1 in the first reserved storage number buffer. The numerical value is read and stored in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55. Further, when the special symbol pointer indicates “second”, the CPU 56 reads each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the second reserved storage number=1 in the second reserved storage number buffer. And stores it in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55.

Then, the CPU 56 subtracts 1 from the count value of the reserved storage number counter indicated by the special symbol pointer, and shifts the content of each storage area (step S56). Specifically, when the special symbol pointer indicates “first”, the CPU 56 subtracts 1 from the count value of the first reserved storage number counter, and each storage area in the first reserved storage number buffer. Shift the contents of. Further, when the special symbol pointer indicates "second", the count value of the second reserved storage number counter is decremented by 1, and the content of each storage area in the second reserved storage number buffer is shifted.

That is, when the special symbol pointer indicates “first”, the CPU 56 stores a storage area corresponding to the first reserved storage number=n (n=2, 3, 4) in the first reserved storage number buffer of the RAM 55. Each random number value stored in is stored in the storage area corresponding to the first number of reserved storages=n-1. Further, when the special symbol pointer indicates "second", it is stored in the storage area corresponding to the second reserved storage number=n (n=2, 3, 4) in the second reserved storage number buffer of the RAM 55. Each random value is stored in the storage area corresponding to the second number of reserved storages=n-1.

Therefore, the order in which the random number values stored in the respective storage areas corresponding to the respective first reserved memory numbers (or the respective second reserved memory numbers) are always extracted is always the first reserved memory number (or, The second reserved memory number)=1, 2, 3, 4 and the order.

Then, the CPU 56 reduces the number of lights of the special symbol holding storage display (the first special symbol holding storage display 18a or the second special symbol holding storage display 18b) indicated by the special symbol pointer by 1 (step S57). Further, the value of the pending storage number counter (first pending storage number counter or second pending storage number counter) indicated by the special symbol pointer is decremented by 1 (step S58). In addition, the value of the total pending storage number is decremented by 1. That is, the count value of the total pending storage number counter is decremented by 1 (step S59).

Next, the CPU 56 reads out the random R (random number for jackpot determination) from the random number buffer area and determines whether to make a jackpot. That is, it is determined whether or not the value of the big hit determination random number matches any of the big hit determination values (see FIG. 7A) set in the big hit determination table (step S61). In addition, the CPU 56 reads the big hit determination random number extracted in step S216A of the first starting opening switch passage processing or step S216B of the second starting opening switch passage processing and stored in advance in the first pending storage buffer or the second pending storage buffer. , Jackpot determination (a process of comparing the value of the random number for jackpot determination with the jackpot determination value). Specifically, the CPU 56 determines that the special symbol is a big hit when the value of the big hit determination random number (random R) matches any of the big hit determination values shown in FIG. 7A in accordance with the current game state. Decide to.

It should be noted that whether or not the current gaming state is the probability variation state is determined by checking whether or not the probability variation flag is set. The probability variation flag is set when shifting the game state to the probability variation state, and reset when ending the probability variation state. Specifically, it is set in the process of ending the big hit game after it is decided to be a probability big hit, and when the big hit is decided, the variable display of the special symbol is ended and the stop symbol is reset at the timing of stop display. To be done.

If it is decided to make a big hit, the process proceeds to step S71. In addition, to decide whether or not to be a big hit, it is to decide whether or not to shift to the big hit gaming state, but to decide whether or not to make a stop symbol in the special symbol display device a big hit symbol But also.

If it is confirmed in step S61 that the value of the random R (random number for jackpot determination) does not match any jackpot determination value, that is, if it is out of alignment, the process proceeds to step S74.

In step S71, the CPU 56 sets a big hit flag indicating that it is a big hit. Then, the CPU 56 uses the jackpot type determination table (see FIG. 7(B)), and the type corresponding to the value that matches the value of the random number (random 1) for jackpot type determination stored in the random number buffer area (“ "Normal big hit", "probability variation big hit") is determined as the kind of big hit (step S72).

Further, the CPU 56 sets the data indicating the determined jackpot type in the jackpot type buffer in the RAM 55 (step S73). For example, when the big hit type is "normal big hit", "01" is set as the data indicating the big hit type, and when it is "probable variation big hit", "02" is set as the data indicating the big hit type.

Next, the CPU 56 determines the stop symbol of the special symbol (step S74). Specifically, when the big hit flag is not set, "-" which is a falling symbol is determined as a stop symbol of the special symbol. When the big hit flag is set, depending on the big hit type determination result, either the big hit symbols "3" or "7" is determined as the stop symbol of the special symbol. That is, when the jackpot type is determined to be "normal jackpot", "3" is determined as a stop symbol of the special symbol. When the "probable variation big hit" is determined, "7" is determined as the stop symbol of the special symbol.

In this embodiment, the jackpot type is first determined, and the stop symbol of the special symbol corresponding to the determined jackpot type is determined. However, the method of determining the jackpot type and the stop symbol of the special symbol is this embodiment. It is not limited to those shown. For example, a table in which the stop symbols of the special symbols are associated with the jackpot types is prepared in advance, and the stop symbols of the special symbols are first determined based on the random number for determining the jackpot type, and the corresponding jackpots are determined based on the determination result. The type may be determined.

Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern setting process (step S301) (step S75).

FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the variation pattern setting process (step S301) in the special symbol process process. In the fluctuation pattern setting process, the CPU 56 first confirms whether or not the big hit flag is set (step S91). When the big hit flag is set, the CPU 56 determines to use the big hit variation pattern determination table (step S92). If the big hit flag is not set, it is determined to use the out-of-shift variation pattern determination table (step S93).

In the big hit variation pattern determination table, the variation patterns (“02H” and “04H”) selected during the big hit shown in FIG. 8 are set, and a plurality of determination values are assigned to each variation pattern. In addition, the fluctuation pattern determination table for deviation is set with the fluctuation patterns (“00H”, “01H”, and “03H”) selected at the time of deviation shown in FIG. 8, and a plurality of determination values are set for each fluctuation pattern. It is assigned. The variation pattern determination table for disengagement is a variation pattern determination table when the gaming state is the normal state, and when the gaming state is the probability variation state, another variation pattern determination table is used. For example, in the variation pattern determination table for deviation in the probability change state, the variation patterns (“01H”, “03H”, “05H”) selected in the deviation shown in FIG. 8 are set, and each variation pattern is set. Multiple judgment values are assigned.

As the deviation variation pattern determination table in the time saving state, the same table as the deviation variation pattern determination table in the probability variation state is used. However, different tables may be used as the deviation variation pattern determination table in the time saving state and the deviation variation pattern determination table in the probability variation state.

Further, a plurality of tables corresponding to the total number of pending storages may be used as the deviation variation pattern determination table, and any one of the plurality of tables may be used depending on the total number of pending storages. In this case, the determination values of the fluctuation patterns (“01H”, “03H”, and “05H”) selected at the time of the deviation shown in FIG. 8 are assigned to the respective tables of the plurality of tables. May be.

CPU56 reads the random number for fluctuation pattern determination from the random number storage buffer, and based on the value of the read random number for fluctuation pattern determination, the variation pattern determination table for big hits or the variation pattern determination table for off It is determined (step S101). Specifically, the variation pattern corresponding to the determination value that matches the variation pattern determination random number value is determined as the variation pattern of the effect symbol executed on the effect display device 9. In addition, in this embodiment, the random number for fluctuation pattern determination is extracted and stored in the random number storage buffer when the start winning occurs, but the CPU 56 extracts the random number for fluctuation pattern determination at the start of fluctuation of the special symbol (for example, It may be extracted in the fluctuation pattern setting process) and the fluctuation pattern may be determined based on the extracted random numbers.

Next, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit the symbol variation designation command (the first symbol variation designation command or the second symbol variation designation command) of the one indicated by the special symbol pointer (step S103), and the determined variation pattern (fluctuation time) ), a control for transmitting an effect control command (variation pattern command) for designating a variation pattern (step S102).

When transmitting the effect control command to the effect control microcomputer 100, the CPU 56 sets the pointer to the address of the command transmission table (preliminarily set in the ROM for each command) corresponding to the effect control command. . Then, the address of the command transmission table corresponding to the effect control command is set in the pointer, and the effect control command is transmitted in the effect control command control process (step S28).

Then, the CPU 56 sets the variable time in the special symbol process timer (step S104). Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value according to step S302 (step S105).

FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing the display result designation command transmission process (step S302). In the display result designation command transmission process, the CPU 56 produces one of the display result 1 designation to the display result 3 designation control command according to whether or not it is a big hit and the type of the big hit that has been determined (see FIG. 9). ) Is sent. Specifically, the CPU 56 first confirms whether or not the big hit flag is set (step S111). If it is not set, the process proceeds to step S113.

When the big hit flag is set, control is performed to transmit one of the effect control commands (see FIG. 9) of designation of display result 2 to designation of display result 3 according to the type of big hit (type). The big hit type is determined by the data set in the big hit type buffer in the process of step S73 of the special symbol normal process.

In step S113, the CPU 56 controls to transmit the display result 1 designation command.

Then, the CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the special symbol changing process (step S303) (step S114).

FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing the special symbol changing process (step S303) in the special symbol process process. In the special symbol variation process, the CPU 56 subtracts 1 from the variation time timer (step S125), and when the variation time timer times out (step S126), terminates the variation of the special symbol, and the first special symbol display 8a or the The control for deriving and displaying the stop symbol is performed on the 2 special symbol display device 8b (step S127). In addition, when the data indicating "first" is set to the special symbol pointer, the fluctuation of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display 8a is ended, and "second" is indicated to the special symbol pointer. When the data is set, the variation of the second special symbol on the second special symbol display 8b is ended. In addition, control is performed to send a symbol confirmation designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S128). Then, the CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the special symbol stop process (step S304) (step S129). If the variable time timer has not timed out, the process ends.

In this embodiment, the variable display of the special symbol is, specifically, based on the fact that the value of the special symbol process flag becomes 3 during the special symbol changing process, the special symbol display control process (step S32). In), the special symbol display control data for the special symbol variation display is set in the output buffer for setting the special symbol display control data. Then, in the display control process of step S22, the variable display of the special symbol is actually executed according to the setting contents of the output buffer.

Further, in this embodiment, the value of the special symbol process flag is 4 (value indicating the special symbol stop process), based on the special symbol display control process (see step S32) stop symbol of the special symbol ( It is performed by the special symbol display control data for stop display of the special symbol normal process stop symbol determined in step S65) is set in the output buffer for setting the special symbol display control data. Then, in the display control process of step S22, the stop symbol of the special symbol is actually stopped and displayed according to the setting contents of the output buffer.

FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing a special symbol stop process (step S304) in the special symbol process process. In the special symbol stop process, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the big hit flag is set (step S133). When the big hit flag is set, the CPU 56 resets the probability variation flag indicating the probability variation state and the time saving flag indicating the time saving state if set (step S134), and the effect control The control for transmitting the jackpot start designation command to the microcomputer 100 for use is performed (step S135).

In addition, the big hit display time timer is set to a value corresponding to the big hit display time (for example, the time at which the effect display device 9 notifies that the big hit has occurred) (step S137). Further, the number of times of opening (5, 10 or 15) is set in the special winning opening opening counter (step S138). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to the value corresponding to the special winning opening opening preprocessing (step S305) (step S139).

When it is confirmed in step S133 that the big hit flag is not set, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the probability variation flag indicating the probability variation state is set (step S140). If it is set, the process proceeds to step S147. When the probability variation flag is not set, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the time saving flag indicating the time saving state is set (step S141). When the time saving flag is set (that is, not in the case of the probability changing state, but in the time saving state), the value of the time saving number counter indicating the number of times the special symbol can be changed in the time saving state is decremented by 1 (step S142). Then, when the value of the hour/hour counter after subtraction becomes 0 (step S144), the CPU 56 resets the hour/hour flag (step S145). In addition, control is performed to transmit a low base state designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S146).

In step S147, the CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the special symbol normal process (step S300).

FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing the big hit ending process (step S307) in the special symbol process process. In the jackpot end process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the jackpot end display timer is set (step S160), and if the jackpot end display timer is set, the process proceeds to step S164. When the big hit end display timer is not set, the big hit flag is reset (step S161), and the big hit end designation command is transmitted (step S162). Then, the big hit end display timer is set to a value corresponding to the display time corresponding to the time when the big hit end display is being performed on the effect display device 9 (big hit end display time) (step S163), and the process is ended.

In step S164, the value of the jackpot end display timer is decremented by 1. Then, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the big hit end display timer is 0, that is, whether the big hit end display time has elapsed (step S165). If not, the process ends.

When the jackpot end display time has elapsed, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the type of jackpot is the probability variation jackpot (step S166). Whether or not the probability is a big jackpot is specifically determined by the data set in the jackpot type buffer in the process of step S73 of the special symbol normal process. If it is not the probability variation big hit, the process proceeds to step S172.

If the probability variation big hit, the CPU 56 sets the probability variation flag and shifts the game state to the probability variation state (step S170). Further, the CPU 56 sets the time saving flag (step S171). Then, the process proceeds to step S174.

By executing the processing of steps S170 and S171, in this embodiment, when the jackpot game based on the probability variation big hit is finished, the gaming state is shifted to the probability variation state (high probability state) and the time saving state (high Base state) (that is, a high probability/high base state).

In this embodiment, the time saving flag set in the process of step S173 is also used to determine whether to increase the number of times the variable winning ball device 15 is opened. Further, the time saving flag is used to determine whether or not to reduce the variation time of the special symbol.

In step S172, the CPU 56 sets a predetermined number (for example, 100) in the hour/hour count counter for counting the number of hour/hour (variable times in the hour/hour state) (step S172). Further, the CPU 56 sets the time saving flag (step S173). Then, the process proceeds to step S174.

In step S174, the CPU 56 issues a game state designation command (low base state designation command, high base state designation command, non-probability variation state designation command, or probability variation state designation command) to the effect control microcomputer 100 according to the current game state. Control to send. In the process of step S174, the CPU 56 controls to transmit the high base state designation command when the time saving flag indicating the time saving state is set. When the time saving flag is not set, control is performed to send a low base state designation command. Further, when the probability variation flag indicating the probability variation state is set, control is performed to transmit the probability variation state designation command. If the probability variation flag is not set, control is performed to transmit the non-probability variation state designation command.

In this embodiment, the game control microcomputer 560 transmits a game state designation command every time the big hit game ends, but for example, the game state changes before attempting to transmit the game state designation command. It may be determined whether or not the game state is changed, and only when the game state is changed, the game state designation command according to the changed game state may be transmitted.

After that, the CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the special symbol normal process (step S300) (step S175).

Next, the operation of the effect control means will be described. FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing a main process executed by the effect control microcomputer 100 (specifically, effect control CPU 101) mounted on the effect control board 80. When the power is turned on, the effect control CPU 101 starts executing the main process. In the main process, first, an initialization process for clearing the RAM area, setting various initial values, and initializing a timer for determining the activation interval of the effect control process is performed (step S701). After that, the effect control CPU 101 shifts to the loop processing for checking the timer interrupt flag (step S702). When the timer interrupt occurs, the effect control microcomputer 100 sets the timer interrupt flag in the timer interrupt process. If the timer interrupt flag is set in the main process, the effect control microcomputer 100 clears the flag (step S703) and executes the following effect control process.

In the effect control process, the effect control CPU 101 first analyzes the received effect control command (command analysis process: step S704). Next, the effect control CPU 101 performs effect control process processing (step S705). In the production control process process, the process corresponding to the current control state (production control process flag) is selected from among the processes corresponding to the control state, and the display control of the production display device 9 is executed. Further, a random number update process for updating the count value of the counter for generating a random number such as a random number for effect design determination is executed (step S706). Then, it transfers to step S702.

The effect control command transmitted from the game control microcomputer 560 is received by an interrupt process based on the effect control INT signal, and a command reception buffer of a ring buffer format capable of storing 6 effect control commands of 2 bytes. It is stored in (formed in RAM). Then, a command reception number counter indicating which area to store the received command is used. The command reception number counter has a value of 0-11. In the command analysis process, the effect control CPU 101 analyzes which command (see FIG. 9) is the effect control command stored in the command reception buffer.

21 and 22 are flowcharts showing a specific example of the command analysis process (step S704). The effect control command received from the main board 31 is stored in the command reception buffer, but in the command analysis processing, the effect control microcomputer 100 (specifically, the effect control CPU 101) is stored in the command reception buffer. Check the command contents.

Note that the command is stored in the command receiving buffer, specifically, by detecting that the effect control INT signal output from the game control microcomputer 560 has risen, and by interrupt processing, a 1-byte MODE is first set. Data is captured and stored in the command reception buffer. Next, after the effect control INT signal is turned off, it is detected that the next effect control INT signal has risen, and by the interrupt process, 1-byte EXT data is fetched, and the next area of the command reception buffer is detected. Stored in. By the above process, one effect control command (2-byte command) is fetched and stored in the command reception buffer.

In the command analysis process, the effect control CPU 101 first confirms whether or not a received command is stored in the command reception buffer (step S611). Whether it is stored or not is determined by comparing the value of the command reception number counter with the read pointer. The case where both match is the case where the received command is not stored. When the received command is stored in the command reception buffer, the effect control CPU 101 reads the received command from the command reception buffer (step S612). When read, the value of the read pointer is set to +2 (step S613). The reason why +2 is performed is that two bytes (one command) are read.

If the received production control command is the power-on designation command (initialization designation command) (step S614), the production control CPU 101 displays an initial screen indicating that the initialization processing has been executed on the production display device 9. Control is performed (step S615). The initial screen includes an initial display of a predetermined effect design.

If the received production control command is a power failure recovery designation command (step S616), a predetermined power failure recovery screen (screen that displays information that informs the player that the gaming state is continuing) is displayed. Display control is performed (step S617).

If the received production control command is the variation pattern command (step S621), the production control CPU 101 stores the received variation pattern command in the variation pattern command storage area formed in the RAM (step S622). Then, the effect control CPU 101 sets the variation pattern command reception flag (step S623).

If the received effect control command is the display result specifying command (step S624), the effect control CPU 101 forms the received display result specifying command (display result 1 specifying command to display result 3 specifying command) in the RAM. The display result designation command storage area is stored (step S625).

If the received effect control command is the symbol confirmation designation command (step S626), the effect control CPU 101 sets the confirmation command reception flag (step S627).

If the received effect control command is the command for specifying the total reserved storage number (step S661), the effect control CPU 101 updates the total reserved storage number display on the total reserved storage display unit 18c (step S662). Specifically, the hold display is incremented by 1.

It should be noted that the game control microcomputer 560 transmits a first start prize designating command indicating that when the first start prize occurs, and a second start prize indicating that when the second start prize occurs. When the production control CPU 101 receives the first start winning award designating command, the display on the combined holding storage display unit 18c is incremented by 1 in the first holding mode (for example, blue), and the second start winning award designation command is transmitted. When is received, control may be performed such that the display in the summed suspension storage display unit 18c is incremented by 1 in the second suspension mode (for example, green).

If the received effect control command is a command for subtracting the total number of reserved storages (step S663), the effect control CPU 101 updates the total number of reserved storages display in the total number of reserved storages display section 18c (step S664). Specifically, the first pending display in the total pending storage display section 18c is erased, and the remaining pending displays are shifted one by one.

If the received production control command is a game state designation command (low base state designation command, high base state designation command, non-probability variation state designation command or probability variation state designation command: see FIG. 9) (step S670), CPU 101 for production control Sets a value corresponding to the game state specified by the received game state designation command in the area of the game state data secured in the RAM (step S671). Hereinafter, the value set in the area of the game status data will be referred to as the game status data.

When the received command read in step S612 is another effect control command, the effect control CPU 101 sets a flag corresponding to the received command (step S691).

FIG. 23 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the values of the game state data.
In the example shown in FIG. 23, the value of the game state data is “01(H)” when in the low-probability low base state (non-probable variation non-time saving state). The value of the game state data is “02(H)” when in the low-probability high-base state (non-probable-variation time-short state). The value of the game state data is "03 (H)" when in the high-probability low base state (probability variation non-time saving state). The value of the game state data is "04 (H)" when in the high probability high base state (probable variation short time state).

In this embodiment, the gaming state does not become a high-probability low base state (probable variation non-time saving state), so the value of the gaming state data is not set to "03(H)".

FIG. 24 is an explanatory diagram showing random numbers used by the effect control microcomputer 100. As shown in FIG. 24, in this embodiment, the effect control microcomputer 100 uses the first to third final stop symbol determination random numbers SR1-1 to SR1-3 and the operation effect determination random number SR2. .. It should be noted that random numbers other than these may be used in order to enhance the effect.

The random numbers SR1-1 to SR1-3 for determining the first to third final stop symbols are “left”, “middle”, and “in the display area of the effect display device 9 as stop symbols which are the variable display results of effect symbols. It is a random number used to determine the effect symbol (final stop symbol) that is stopped and displayed in each symbol display area of "right". The final stop symbols are the three effect symbols that are finally stopped and displayed in each of the "left", "middle", and "right" symbol display areas when the variable display of the effect symbols ends. The combination of the big hit symbols of the effect symbols is determined by any one of the first to third final stop symbol determination random numbers SR1-1 to SR1-3.

The operation effect determination random number SR2 is a random number used to determine whether or not to execute the operation effect (button effect).

FIG. 25 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the operation effect.
As shown in FIG. 25A, the effect control CPU 101 is for urging the player to perform a button operation (pressing the operation button 150) at a predetermined time after the effect pattern is displayed in the reach state. The operation promotion image 9a is controlled to be displayed on the display screen of the effect display device 9 in a predetermined size and a predetermined color. It should be noted that in this embodiment, “promotion” is used in the sense of promoting (inviting) the operation of the player, not in the sense of advancing the operation of the player.

Further, as shown in FIG. 25(B), the effect control CPU 101 has a predetermined time (in this embodiment, a display start time of the operation promotion image 9a after the effect symbol display state has reached the reach state). At about the same time), the mode of the operation button 150 is changed from the normal mode.

The normal mode of the operation button 150 is a state in which no color is emitted (the white LED 151 and the red LED 152 are off), and the vibrator 153 does not vibrate. Therefore, when changing the mode of the operation button 150 from the normal mode, the effect control CPU 101 controls the color generation by the white LED 151, the color generation by the red LED 152, the vibration by the vibrator 153, or the control of two or more of them. To do.

FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing the effect control process process (step S705) in the main process. In the effect control process processing, the effect control CPU 101 performs any one of steps S800 to S807 according to the value of the effect control process flag. In each process, the following process is executed. In the production control process process, the display state of the production display device 9 is controlled, and the variable display of the production symbols is realized, but the control relating to the variable display of the production symbols in synchronization with the variation of the first special symbol is also the second. The control related to the variable display of the effect symbol synchronized with the change of the special symbol is also executed in one effect control process process.

Fluctuating pattern command reception waiting process (step S800): It is confirmed whether a varying pattern command is received from the game control microcomputer 560. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not the fluctuation pattern command reception flag set in the command analysis process is set. If the variation pattern command is received, the value of the effect control process flag is changed to the value corresponding to the effect symbol variation start process (step S801).

Production symbol variation start processing (step S801): control is performed so that variation of the production symbol is started. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to the value corresponding to the effect during the process of changing the effect design (step S802).

Process during production symbol fluctuation (step S802): The switching timing of each fluctuation state (fluctuation speed) forming the fluctuation pattern is controlled, and the end of the fluctuation time is monitored. Then, when the variation time ends, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to the value corresponding to the effect symbol variation stop processing (step S803).

Production symbol fluctuation stop process (step S803): Based on the reception of the production control command (symbol confirmation designation command) for instructing the stop of all symbols, the variation of the production symbol is stopped and the display result (stopped pattern) is displayed. Take control. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the big hit display process (step S804) or the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800).

Big hit display processing (step S804): After the variation time ends, control is performed to display a screen (fanfare screen) for notifying the effect display device 9 of the occurrence of a big hit. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to the value corresponding to the in-round process (step S805).

Processing during round (step S805): Display control during round is performed. Then, when the round end condition is satisfied, if the final round has not ended, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to the value corresponding to the post-round processing (step S806). If the final round has ended, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to the value corresponding to the big hit end effect processing (step S807).

Post-round processing (step S806): Display control between rounds is performed. When the round start condition is satisfied, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to the value corresponding to the in-round process (step S805).

Big hit end production process (step S807): In the production display device 9, display control is performed to notify the player that the big hit game state has ended. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to the value corresponding to the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800).

FIG. 27 is a flowchart showing the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800) in the effect control process process. In the variation pattern command reception waiting process, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the variation pattern reception flag is set (step S811). If it is set, the flag is reset (step S812). Then, the effect control CPU 101 changes the value of the effect control process flag to a value corresponding to the effect design variation start process (step S801) (step S813).

FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing the effect symbol variation start process (step S801) in the effect control process process shown in FIG. In the effect symbol variation start process, the effect control CPU 101 first reads a variation pattern command from the variation pattern command storage area (step S821).

Next, the effect control CPU 101 determines the effect display result (stop design) according to the data stored in the display result specification command storage area (that is, the received display result specification command) (step S822).

For example, when the received display result designation command indicates a normal big hit (when the received display result designation command is the display result 2 designation command), the effect control CPU 101 has an even number of three symbols as a stop symbol. A combination of effect symbols arranged in a symbol (a stop symbol that usually reminds the occurrence of a big hit) is determined. When the received display result designation command indicates a probability variation big hit (when the received display result designation command is the display result 3 designation command), the effect control CPU 101 has three symbols as odd symbols (probability variation). A combination of effect symbols arranged in a stop pattern that reminds the occurrence of a big hit is determined.

When determining the big hit symbol, the CPU 101 for effect control extracts SR1-1 in the process of step S822, and uses SR1-1 to select the left middle right stop symbol (the left middle right symbol is a symbol of the same symbol). Combination).

In the case of falling off, combinations of effect symbols other than the above are determined. However, when a reach effect is involved, a combination of effect symbols having two left and right symbols is determined.

Specifically, the effect control CPU 101, for example, in the case where it is not determined to be the outlying pattern and is not determined to reach, SR1-1 to SR1-3 Extract, determine the left symbol using SR1-1, determine the middle symbol using SR1-2, and determine the right symbol using SR1-3. When the determined left and right symbols match, the right symbol is shifted by 1 symbol. When it is decided to reach, SR1-1 to SR1-2 are extracted, the left and right symbols are determined using SR1-1, and the middle symbol is determined using SR1-2.

Further, the effect control CPU 101 performs an operation effect determination process (step S823).

FIG. 29 is a flowchart showing the operation effect determination process. As shown in FIG. 29, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not reach is reached (step S500). Whether or not the reach is reached can be determined by the variation pattern command stored in the variation pattern command storage area. If the reach is not reached, the process ends. In the case of reach, the value is read from the counter for generating the operation effect determination random number, and the read value is used as the operation effect determination random number (step S501). Then, the effect control CPU 101 compares the value of the random number for operation effect determination with the determination value set in the operation effect determination table, and thereby, the effect mode (display mode of the operation promotion image 9a and operation button after change). 150 modes) are determined (step S502).

FIG. 30 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of the operation effect determination table. The operation effect determination table is stored in the ROM of the effect control microcomputer 100. As shown in FIG. 30, a determination value corresponding to a combination of the display mode of the operation promotion image 9a and the mode of the operation button 150 is set in the operation effect determination table. Note that the number of determination values is shown in FIG.

In the process of step S502, the effect control CPU 101 determines the display mode of the operation promotion image 9a and the mode of the changed operation button 150 to be the mode corresponding to the determination value that matches the value of the operation effect determination random number. .. Note that the effect control CPU 101 uses the table shown in FIG. 30(A) when it is determined that the special symbol display result is not to be a big hit symbol (it is to be a big hit symbol), and is a big hit symbol (big hit symbol). If it is decided to turn on), the table shown in FIG. 30B is used.

Then, the effect control CPU 101 stores the determined effect mode in the RAM (step S503).

As illustrated in FIG. 30, in this embodiment, when a big hit occurs, the ratio of the operation button 150 determined to be “vibration” is higher than when the big hit occurs. Further, the number of judgment values corresponding to “red” is greater in the case of a big hit than in the case of a failure. That is, the mode of the operation button 150 after the change suggests the possibility of a big hit.

Further, focusing on the display mode of the operation promotion image 9a, the proportion of being determined as “red” is larger in the case of a big hit than in the case of a big hit. The proportion determined as “red/large” is even larger when the jackpot is the big hit than when the jackpot is not hit.

When the mode of the operation button 150 is determined to be “red” (specifically, “red” or “red/vibration”), the display mode of the operation promotion image 9a is “white”. (Specifically, “white/small” or “white/large”). That is, the effect control CPU 101 displays the operation promotion image 9a in a mode common to a plurality of modes of the operation button 150. Even when the mode of the operation button 150 is determined to be “white” (specifically, “white” or “white/vibration”), the display mode of the operation promotion image 9a is “ It may be determined to be “white” (specifically, “white/small” or “white/large”).

In this embodiment, the “common mode” is “white”, but it may be “white/small” or “white/large”. That is, a part of the aspect of the operation promotion image 9a is the same. However, the “common mode” may be exactly the same mode.

In addition, in this embodiment, the effect control CPU 101 collectively determines the display mode of the operation promotion image 9a and the mode of the changed operation button 150, but they may be determined separately. .. In this case, the effect control CPU 101 determines the display mode of the operation promotion image 9a by, for example, a lottery using a random number, and determines the mode of the changed operation button 150 by a lottery using another random number.

In addition, in this embodiment, the operation effect is always executed during the change of the effect pattern that becomes the reach, but the effect control CPU 101 determines whether or not to execute the operation effect by, for example, a lottery using a random number. You may do it.

In the effect symbol variation control process, the effect control CPU 101 selects a process table according to the variation pattern (step S824).

FIG. 31 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of the process table. The process table is a table in which process data to be referred to when the effect control CPU 101 executes control of the effect device is set. That is, the effect control CPU 101 controls the effect display devices (effect parts) such as the effect display device 9 according to the process data set in the process table. The process table is composed of data in which a plurality of combinations of process timer set values and effect control execution data (display control execution data, lamp control execution data, and sound number data) are collected. In the display control execution data, data and the like indicating the form of each variation constituting the variation mode during the variable display time (variation time) of the variable display of the effect design are described. Specifically, the data related to the change of the display screen of the effect display device 9 is described. Further, the process timer set value is set with the change time in the form of the change. The effect control CPU 101 refers to the process table, and performs control to display effect symbols in a variation mode set in the display control execution data only for the time set in the process timer set value.

The process table shown in FIG. 31 is stored in the ROM of the effect control board 80. Further, the process table is prepared according to each variation pattern and effect type.

The CPU 101 for effect control, according to the contents of the process data 1 (display control execution data 1, lamp control execution data 1, sound number data 1), an effect device (effect display device 9 as effect parts for variably displaying effect symbols, effect). Control of various lamps as parts for production and speaker 27) as parts for production is started (step S826). For example, according to the display control execution data, a command is output to the VDP 109 in order to display an image (including the effect pattern) according to the variation pattern on the effect display device 9. In addition, a control signal (lamp control execution data) is output to the lamp driver board 35 in order to control the turning on/off of various lamps. Further, a control signal (sound number data) is output to the sound output board 70 in order to output sound from the speaker 27.

Further, the effect control CPU 101 sets, in the variation time timer, a value corresponding to the variation time specified by the variation pattern command (step S827).

Then, the effect control CPU 101 updates the value of the effect control process flag to a value indicating the effect of the effect of changing the effect design (step S802) (step S828).

FIG. 32 is a flow chart showing the effect of changing the effect design (step S802) in the effect control process processing. In the effect symbol variation process, the effect control CPU 101 decrements the respective values of the process timer and the variation time timer by -1 (steps S840A and S840B).

If the button valid period timer is operating, the value of the button valid period timer is decremented by 1 (step S840C).

When the button effective period timer times out (the value becomes 0) (step S840D), the effect control CPU 101 erases the operation prompting image 9a from the display screen of the effect display device 9 and changes the mode of the operation button 150. The normal mode is restored (step S840E).

Further, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the process timer has timed out (step S841). If the timeout has not occurred, the process proceeds to step S844. If the process timer has timed out, the process data is switched. That is, the process timer is newly started by setting the process timer set value set next in the process table in the process timer (step S842). Further, the control state for the effect device (effect parts) is changed based on the display control execution data, the lamp control execution data, and the sound number data set next (step S843). Then, the process proceeds to step S844.

In step S844, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the value of the variable time timer has reached a value corresponding to the passage of a predetermined time. The predetermined time is a time during the reach effect after the reach is reached, and is, for example, 5 seconds before the effect symbol is determined (displayed by derivation) during the reach effect. If the value of the variable time timer is not the value corresponding to the elapse of the predetermined time, the process proceeds to step S852.

When the value of the variable time timer reaches a value corresponding to the lapse of a predetermined time, the effect control CPU 101 displays the operation promotion image 9a in the mode determined in the process of step S502 and stored in the RAM (step S845). ). Further, the mode of the operation button 150 is set to the mode determined in the process of step S502 and stored in the RAM (step S846).

When the operation button 150 is determined to be white in the process of step S846, the effect control CPU 101 gives a drive signal to the white LED 151. When it is determined to make the operation button 150 red, a drive signal is given to the red LED 152. When it is decided to vibrate the operation button 150, a drive signal is given to the vibrator 153.

Further, the effect control CPU 101 sets a value corresponding to the operation effective period in the button effective period timer (step S847). Then, the process proceeds to step S852.

In step S852, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the button effective period timer is operating (whether or not the value is 0). When the button effective period timer is operating, the effect control CPU 101 detects that the operation button 150 has been operated via the input port 107 (see FIG. 3) (step S853), and the effect display device 9 The operation prompting image 9a is erased from the display screen of No., and the mode of the operation button 150 is returned to the normal mode (step S854). That is, the driving of the white LED 151, the red LED 152, and the vibrator 153 is stopped.

Note that the effect control CPU 101 executes a predetermined effect (the effect is included in the operation effect) following the process of step S854. In that case, the effect control CPU 101 may execute a fixed effect, but may select the effect type from a plurality of types. In the case of such a configuration, for example, in the operation effect determination process (see FIG. 29), the effect mode (the mode of displaying the operation promotion image 9a and the mode of the changed operation button 150) is determined (step S502). ) Together with, the type of the predetermined effect to be executed is determined by lottery using random numbers, for example. Examples of the predetermined effect include display effect by a predetermined character image and predetermined game effect.

Further, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the variable time timer has timed out (step S861). When the fluctuation time timer has timed out, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value according to the effect design fluctuation stop process (step S803) (step S863). Even if the variable time timer has not timed out, if the confirmation command reception flag indicating that the symbol confirmation designation command has been received is set (step S862), the effect control CPU 101 executes the process of step S863.

FIG. 33 is a flowchart showing the effect symbol fluctuation stop process (step S803) in the effect control process process. In the effect symbol variation stop process, the effect control CPU 101 resets the confirm command reception flag when the confirm command reception flag is set (step S8300), and derives the stop symbol determined in the process of step S822. Display control is performed (step S8301).

Further, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not a big hit is determined (step S8311). Whether or not it is decided to make a big hit is confirmed by, for example, the display result designation command stored in the display result designation command storage area. It is also possible to confirm whether or not it is decided to be a big hit by the determined stop symbol. If it is not decided to make a big hit, the process moves to step S8312.

When it is determined to be a big hit, the effect control CPU 101 selects a process table corresponding to the effect (fanfare effect) of notifying the start of the big hit (step S8313).

Then, the effect control CPU 101 starts the process timer in the process data 1 of the selected process table (step S8314). Further, in accordance with the contents of the process data 1 (display control execution data 1, lamp control execution data 1, sound number data 1), a performance device (a performance display device 9 as a performance component, various lamps as a performance component, and a performance component). The control of the speaker 27) is performed (step S8315).

After that, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value according to the big hit display process (step S804) (step S8316).

In step S8312, the effect control CPU 101 updates the value of the effect control process flag to a value according to the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800).

In the big hit display process (step S804), the effect control CPU 101 executes the fanfare effect according to the data set in the process table selected in the process of step S8313.

As described above, the effect control CPU 101 changes the mode of the operation button 150 to one of a plurality of modes according to the expectation level for the big hit game state, and operates according to the expectation level for the big hit game state. Although the promotion image 9a is displayed in any of a plurality of modes, the operation promotion image 9a having a mode common to the plurality of modes of the operation button 150 is displayed, and therefore, the operation promotion image is also displayed according to the degree of expectation for the jackpot gaming state. The display mode of 9a is changed to any of a plurality of display modes, and the mode of the operation button 150 is changed to any of a plurality of modes according to the degree of expectation for the big hit game state, but the mode of the operation button 150 is an operation promotion image. 9a is common to a plurality of display modes (for example, "white" (specifically, "white" or "white/vibration" shown in FIG. 30), so that the entertainment of the game by means of the operating means Can be further improved.

Further, in this embodiment, the effect is executed by a combination of "red/small" or "red/large" (for the operation promotion image 9a) and "red" or "red/vibration" (for the operation button 150). There is no such thing. If the display mode of the operation promotion image 9a (red in this case) and the mode of the operation button 150 (red in this case) are the same, the player may expect something, In the same manner, the effect of the operation promotion image 9a and the operation button 150 is prevented from being executed, thereby preventing a situation in which the player expects something but an event according to the expectation does not occur.

In this embodiment, the "advantage" is the expectation degree (reliability) of the big hit, but it may be the expectation degree of occurrence of another game state or the like. For example, the expectation of probability change big hit, the expectation of transition to a time saving state, the expectation of a large number of times saving and shortening, the function of making the player unrecognizable or difficult to recognize that it is a probability changing state (so-called latent probability change). The latent probability may be changed when it is included.

Further, in this embodiment, both the determination value corresponding to the display mode of the operation promotion image 9a and the mode of the operation button 150 are assigned according to the reliability of the big hit (see FIG. 30), that is, , The determination value is assigned according to the reliability (synonymous with “advantage” in this specification) for the same target, but the determination value is assigned according to the reliability for different targets (advantage for different targets). You may For example, the determination value corresponding to one aspect may be assigned according to the reliability of the big hit, and the determination value corresponding to the other aspect may be assigned according to the reliability of the probability variation big hit.

Further, the reliability (expectation) target does not have to be the reliability (eg, jackpot reliability) regarding the game. For example, the effect control CPU 101 executes an effect (a kind of operation effect) for giving points based on the operation button 150 being pressed (for giving points after the process of step S854 shown in FIG. 32). The effect may be the presence or absence of points given to the player according to the result of the effect, or the reliability with respect to the number of points. Note that, for example, when the number of points acquired by the player reaches a predetermined number, the gaming machine is configured to be able to execute a special effect that is not normally executed.

Further, in this embodiment, the effect control CPU 101 executes the operation effect during the reach effect, but may be executed during the big hit game, for example. In that case, the operation effect may be executed as a probability variation promotion effect or a round promotion effect that is started when the operation button 150 is pressed. The probability variation promotion effect is an effect for stopping and displaying the effect symbol in the normal big hit pattern and notifying whether or not to promote to the probability variation big hit after the start of the big hit game. The round promotion effect is an effect for notifying that it is actually a big hit gaming state with a large number of rounds after the effect symbols corresponding to the big hit gaming state with a small number of rounds are stopped and displayed. Even when the operation effect is executed at such timing, the determination value corresponding to the display mode of the operation promotion image 9a and the mode of the operation button 150 have a reliability (advantageous) with respect to the probability variation state or the jackpot gaming state with a large number of rounds. According to the degree).

In addition, the effect control CPU 101 may start a notice effect (a kind of operation effect) when the operation button 150 is pressed before the reach in the variable display is established. Even when the operation effect is executed at such a timing, the determination value corresponding to the display mode of the operation promotion image 9a and the mode of the operation button 150 are assigned according to the reliability (advantage) to the big hit or the super reach. Be done.

In this embodiment, coloring and vibration are used as the types of the operation button 150. However, the rotation of the operation button 150, the protrusion (bounce) of the operation button 150, the temperature change of the operation button 150, the operation button 150, and the like. Curing or the like may be used. Further, in this embodiment, white and red are used as the colors of the operation buttons 150, but those colors are examples.

Further, in this embodiment, the operation button 150 is used as the operation means, but other kinds of operation means may be used. For example, an operation lever or a touch panel (infrared method or other method) that tilts in a predetermined direction can be used. When the operation lever is used, coloring and vibration can be generated as in the case of using the operation button 150. When a touch panel is used, a light emitting unit (a plurality of types of light emitting units that emit different colors or a light emitting body that can change the light emitting area (size of the light emitting region)) may be provided around the touch panel.

(Modification)
FIG. 34 is an explanatory diagram for describing a modified example of the operation effect. As shown in FIG. 34, variable display of effect symbols is executed (see FIG. 34(A)), and after reaching (see FIG. 34(B)), a meter-shaped image 9c is displayed together with the operation promotion image 9a. It is displayed on the screen (see FIG. 34(C)). In the meter-shaped image 9c, display control is performed so that the end of the meter portion (colored portion (black portion)) moves to the right with the passage of time. Further, an image 9b indicating a specific position of the image 9c is displayed together with the meter-shaped image 9c. The specific position is a fixed position.

Then, based on the player pressing the operation button 150 (see FIG. 34D), a specific effect (for example, moving display of the specific character image 9d) is executed (see FIG. 34E). .. Further, when the operation button 150 is pressed at a specific timing (when the end of the meter portion in the meter-shaped image 9c reaches a specific position), the display mode of the pending storage display changes (FIG. 34 ( See E)). FIG. 34 shows an example of a big hit after that (see FIG. 34(F)).

35 and 36 are explanatory diagrams showing an example of contents of the effect control command in the modified example. As shown in FIG. 35, a command C4XX(H) is also defined as an effect control command. The command C4XX(H) is an effect control command (winning time determination result designation command) indicating the content of the winning determination result (the result of the determination process executed when the start winning occurs) (see FIG. 36). In the modified example, in the winning determination process (see FIG. 38) described later, the game control microcomputer 560, when the start winning occurs in the first starting winning opening 13 or the second starting winning opening 14, the start winning Based on this, it is determined whether or not a big hit is made, and the variation pattern of the variable display based on the start winning is determined. Then, the determination result is set in the EXT data of the determination result designation command at the time of winning, and the control is performed to transmit to the effect control microcomputer 100.

FIG. 37 is a flowchart showing the starting port switch passage processing in the modified example. In the modified example, the CPU 56 in the game control microcomputer 560 performs the winning determination process when the start winning occurs at the first starting winning opening 13 and when the starting winning occurs at the second starting winning opening 14. Execute (steps S217A, S217B).

FIG. 38 is a flowchart showing the winning determination process of steps S217A and S217B. In the winning determination process, the CPU 56 causes the jackpot determining random number (random R) extracted in the processes of steps S216A and S216B and stored in the pending storage buffer, and the jackpot determining value in the normal state shown in the left column of FIG. 7A. And are compared, and it is confirmed whether or not they match (step S221).

In this embodiment, at the timing of starting the variation of the special symbol and the effect symbol, it is determined whether or not to be a big hit in the special symbol normal process described later, or the variation pattern is determined in the variation pattern setting process. However, apart from that, at the timing when the game ball wins the first start winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14, before the variation based on the starting winning is started, the determination process at the time of winning is executed. To do. The effect control microcomputer 100 executes control for changing the mode of the hold storage display in the combined hold storage display unit 18c based on the determination result in the winning determination process.

When the big hit determination random number (random R) matches the big hit determination value, the CPU 56 sets the big hit type determination random number and the big hit type determination table extracted in the processing of steps S216A and S216B and stored in the pending storage buffer. It is used to determine the type of jackpot (step S224). Then, the data (“04” or “05”: see FIG. 10) corresponding to the jackpot type is set as the EXT data of the winning determination result designation command (step S225). Then, the process proceeds to step S231.

When the big hit determination random number (random R) does not match the big hit determination value, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the game state at the start of the fluctuation (variable display) started based on the start winning is a sure change state. (Step S222).

In the process of step S222, if the current gaming state is the probability variation state (if the probability variation flag is set), the CPU 56 matches the normal jackpot determination value (see FIG. 7B) in the pending storage buffer. If there is a reserved memory having a random number for determining the jackpot type (excluding the reserved memory that is currently being determined), it is determined that the gaming state does not become the probability changing state. In addition, the CPU 56, the current gaming state is a normal state (probability variation flag is not set), the random number for determining the jackpot type that matches the determination value of the probability variation jackpot (see FIG. 7B) in the pending storage buffer. It is determined that the gaming state does not become the probability changing state even when there is no reserved memory having (excluding the reserved memory currently being determined).

When the gaming state becomes the probability variation state, the CPU 56 causes the big hit determination random number (random R) extracted in the processing of steps S216A and S216B and stored in the pending storage buffer and the probability variation shown in the right column of FIG. 7A. It is compared with the big hit determination value at time and it is confirmed whether or not they match (step S223). If they match, the process proceeds to step S224.

If they do not match, the CPU 56 uses the random number for fluctuation pattern determination and the fluctuation pattern determination table that are extracted in the processing of steps S216A and S216B and are stored in the pending storage buffer, and the fluctuation pattern is a reach fluctuation pattern with a reach effect. Is determined (steps S226 and S227). It should be noted that when the total number of pending storages is large, the average fluctuation time is configured to be shortened, and a specific reach fluctuation pattern (for example, super reach) is set in the fluctuation pattern determination table regardless of the number of total pending storages. When a common determination (compared with the value of the variation pattern determination random number) is assigned, the CPU 56 causes the value of the variation pattern determination random number to match the determination value, regardless of which number of summed pending storages. When it does, it can be determined that a specific reach variation pattern is obtained.

When the variation pattern becomes the reach variation pattern, the data (“02” corresponding to the out-of-reach (the variation pattern is the reach variation pattern, but the display result is the deficit pattern) as the EXT data of the winning determination result designation command. Alternatively, “03”: refer to FIG. 10) is set (step S228). Then, the process proceeds to step S231.

When the variation pattern does not become the reach variation pattern, the data corresponding to the non-reach deviation (the variation pattern is not the reach variation pattern and the display result is the deficit pattern) as the EXT data of the winning determination result designation command (" 01”: refer to FIG. 10) (step S229). Then, the process proceeds to step S231.

In step S231, the CPU 56 performs control of transmitting to the effect control microcomputer 100 the winning determination result specification command for which the EXT data is set in the processing of steps S225, S228, and S229.

FIG. 39 is a flowchart showing a part of the command analysis process executed by the effect control CPU 101 in the modified example. In the modified example, if the received effect control command is the winning determination result specification command (step S651), the effect control CPU 101 uses the received winning determination result specification command in the RAM. The process of storing in the first free storage area of the storage buffer (step S652) is also executed.

FIG. 40 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the structure of the winning determination result storage buffer. As shown in FIG. 40, in the winning determination result storage buffer, areas (storing areas 1 to 8) corresponding to the maximum value (8 in this example) of the total pending storage number are secured.

Note that FIG. 40 shows an example (corresponding to the case where the number of reserved memories is 5) in which five winning determination result designation commands are received.

Further, the winning determination result storage buffer is also provided with an area for storing the determined display mode of the reserved storage display.

FIG. 41 is a flowchart showing an example of the effect control process processing in the modified example. In the modified example, after performing the hold mode determination process (step S800A), the effect control CPU 101 performs any one of steps S800 to S807 according to the value of the effect control process flag.

FIG. 42 is a flowchart showing an example of the hold mode determination process. In the hold mode determination processing, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not any of the winning determination result specification commands has been newly received (step S510). Specifically, it is confirmed by determining whether or not a winning determination result specification command is newly stored in the winning determination result storage buffer shown in FIG. If no new winning determination result designation command has been received, the process ends.

When the new winning determination result designation command is received, the effect control CPU 101 extracts a holding mode determination random number (step S511). In the modification, as shown in FIG. 43, the holding mode determining random number SR3 is also used.

The effect control CPU 101 determines the mode of the hold storage display in the combined hold storage display unit 18c by comparing the value of the random number for hold mode determination with the determination value set in the hold mode determination table (step S512). ).

FIG. 44 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of the hold mode determination table. The hold mode determination table is stored in the ROM of the effect control microcomputer 100. As shown in FIG. 44, in the hold mode determination table, the determination value corresponding to the display mode of the hold storage display is set. Note that the number of determination values is shown in FIG.

In the process of step S512, the effect control CPU 101 determines the display mode of the hold storage display to be the mode corresponding to the determination value that matches the value of the random number for hold mode determination. Note that the effect control CPU 101 uses the table shown in FIG. 44(A) when it indicates that the winning determination result specification command does not result in a big hit (is a big hit), and indicates that a big hit will occur. If so, the table shown in FIG. 44(B) is used. As shown in FIG. 44, in the case of a big hit, the mode of the pending storage display is more likely to be determined to be “red” than in the case of a big hit.

Then, the effect control CPU 101 stores the determined mode in the RAM (step S513).

45 and 46 are flowcharts showing an example of the effect symbol variation process in the modified example. In the modification, the effect control CPU 101 selects a process table corresponding to the button operation effect when the button effective period timer sets a value corresponding to the operation effective period (step S847) (step S848). Then, the process timer in the process data 1 of the selected process table is started (step S849). Further, control of the effect device is started according to the contents of the process data 1 (step S850).

In the process table corresponding to the button operation effect, the meter-shaped image 9c shown in FIG. 34 and the image 9b indicating the specific position of the image 9c are displayed, and thereafter the meter portion in the meter-shaped image 9c is gradually changed. The data for realizing the control to stretch the sheet is set.

When the effect control CPU 101 detects that the operation button 150 has been operated (step S853), the effect control CPU 101 starts the specific effect (see FIG. 34E) (step S855). If the timing is the specific timing (when the end of the meter portion in the meter-shaped image 9c reaches the specific position) (step S856), the display of the reserved storage display stored in the winning determination result storage buffer is displayed. According to the mode, the mode of the reserved storage display in the combined reserved storage display unit 18c is changed (step S857). In addition, the mode of the hold storage display may not be changed (when the display mode of "red" is not set in the winning determination result storage buffer).

Note that the effect control CPU 101 may always change the mode of the hold storage display regardless of the degree of expectation, if the timing at which the operation button 150 is operated is the specific timing. In that case, when the display mode of “red” is not set in the winning determination result storage buffer, for example, the display mode of the hold storage display is changed to another color or is displayed so as to blink.

In addition, the effect control CPU 101 may execute an effect in which the specific character image 9d and the display mode change of the hold storage display are linked. For example, when the timing at which the operation button 150 is operated is the specific timing, the display effect is such that the specific character image 9d performs some action (for example, a collision) on the reserved storage display on the display screen, The display control is performed such that the mode of the hold storage display is changed as a result of the work. In that case, although the specific character image 9d has performed some action on the reserved storage display, the display mode of the reserved storage display may not change (for example, the display mode of “red” in the winning determination result storage buffer). Is not set).

Further, the winning determination result storage buffer stores the determination result in the holding mode determining process shown in FIG. Further, the effect control CPU 101 ends the specific effect when a predetermined time has elapsed.

In the modification, the effect control CPU 101 changes the mode of the hold storage display when it is determined that the operation button 150 is operated at a specific timing, so that the player should pay attention to the operation timing as well. Therefore, it is possible to further improve the interest of the game by the effect using the operating means.

In addition, as a second modification, the effect control CPU 101 may start the specific effect and change the mode of the hold storage display when it is determined that the operation button 150 is operated at the specific timing. Good. In that case, the player also pays attention to the timing of the operation, and the interest of the game by the effect using the operation means can be further improved.

FIG. 47 is a flowchart showing an example of the effect symbol variation start process in the third modified example. In the third modified example, a vibration effect determination process (step S823A) is performed instead of the operation effect determination process (step S823) in the effect symbol variation start process shown in FIG. In the following description, different points between the above embodiment and the third modification will be mainly described.

In the effect symbol variation start process shown in FIG. 47, the effect control CPU 101 first reads a variation pattern command from the variation pattern command storage area (step S821).

Next, the effect control CPU 101 determines the effect display result (stop design) according to the data stored in the display result specification command storage area (that is, the received display result specification command) (step S822).

The effect control CPU 101 also performs a vibration effect determination process (step S823A).

In the effect symbol variation control process, the effect control CPU 101 selects a process table according to the variation pattern (step S824).

The CPU 101 for effect control, according to the contents of the process data 1 (display control execution data 1, lamp control execution data 1, sound number data 1), an effect device (effect display device 9 as effect parts for variably displaying effect symbols, effect). Control of various lamps as parts for production and speaker 27) as parts for production is started (step S826). For example, according to the display control execution data, a command is output to the VDP 109 in order to display an image (including the effect pattern) according to the variation pattern on the effect display device 9. In addition, a control signal (lamp control execution data) is output to the lamp driver board 35 in order to control the turning on/off of various lamps. Further, a control signal (sound number data) is output to the sound output board 70 in order to output sound from the speaker 27.

Further, the effect control CPU 101 sets, in the variation time timer, a value corresponding to the variation time specified by the variation pattern command (step S827).

Then, the effect control CPU 101 updates the value of the effect control process flag to a value indicating the effect of the effect of changing the effect design (step S802) (step S828).

FIG. 48 is a flowchart showing an example of the vibration effect determination process in the third modified example.
The vibration effect determination process is an example of the process executed in step S823A in the effect symbol variation start process shown in FIG. 47.

As shown in FIG. 48, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not a reach is reached (step S901). Whether or not the reach is reached can be determined by the variation pattern command stored in the variation pattern command storage area. When it does not reach (step S901; N), the CPU 101 for effect control ends the vibration effect determination process. When reaching is reached (step S901; Y), the effect control CPU 101 extracts a value from the counter for generating the operation effect determination random number, and sets the extracted value as the operation effect determination random number (step S902).

The effect control CPU 101 compares the value of the operation effect determination random number with the determination value set in the operation effect determination table, and thereby the effect mode (the display mode of the operation promotion image 9a and the changed operation button 150). The display mode) is determined (step S903).

After executing the process of step S903, the effect control CPU 101 extracts a value from the counter for generating the vibration effect execution presence/absence determination random number, and sets the extracted value as the vibration effect execution presence/absence determination random number (step S904). ).

After executing the process of step S904, the effect control CPU 101 executes the vibration effect based on the value of the vibration effect execution presence/absence determination random number, the determination value and the variation pattern set in the vibration effect execution presence/absence determination table. Presence/absence is determined (step S905).

FIG. 49 is a diagram showing an example of setting the determination rate by the vibration effect execution presence/absence determination table in the third modified example.
The vibration effect execution presence/absence determination table is stored in the ROM of the effect control microcomputer 100. In the vibration effect execution presence/absence determination table, a determination value that is compared with the value of the vibration effect execution presence/absence determination random number at a determination rate as shown in the figure according to the variation pattern, execution of vibration effect, and absence of execution of vibration effect. Is set. The fluctuation pattern can be determined by reading the fluctuation pattern command from the fluctuation pattern command storage area in step S821.

In the example shown in the figure, when the fluctuation pattern is the fluctuation pattern of “reach A (out)” (01H) and the fluctuation pattern of “reach A (big hit)” (02H), “executed” is determined at a rate of 10%. Therefore, a determination value to be compared with the value of the vibration effect execution presence/absence determination random number is assigned, and the vibration effect execution presence/absence determination random number is determined so that “no execution” can be determined at a rate of 90%. A judgment value to be compared with the value is assigned.

Further, when the variation pattern is the variation pattern (03H) of “reach B (out)” and the variation pattern (04H) of “reach B (big hit)”, it can be determined to be “executed” at a rate of 20%. , A determination value to be compared with the value of the vibration effect execution presence/absence determination random number is assigned, and is compared with the value of the vibration effect execution presence/absence determination random number so that “no execution” can be determined at a rate of 80%. The judgment value to be assigned is assigned.

As the vibration effect execution presence/absence determination table, a table in which a determination value to be compared with the value of the vibration effect execution presence/absence determination random number is set according to the number of stored memories and the presence/absence of execution of the vibration effect may be used. However, it is also possible to use a plurality of tables to which a determination value that is compared with the value of the random number for determining the presence/absence of vibration effect is assigned according to the variation pattern and the presence/absence of execution of the vibration effect according to the number of stored memories.

Here, the vibration effect is, for example, an effect in which the operation button 150 is vibrated in any one of a plurality of vibration modes. The vibration can be generated using a driving device such as a linear vibrator, a piezo element, an eccentric motor, or the like. In the third modified example, an example in which vibration is generated by using an eccentric motor as a drive device will be described. At this time, a plurality of vibration modes are prepared so that the vibration intensity is different by controlling the ON time and the OFF time.

The drive device changes the vibration intensity, for example, by increasing the rotation speed during the ON time and decreasing the rotation speed by suppressing the power supply during the OFF time. Here, the vibration intensity of the operation button 150 by the drive device becomes stronger as the ON time is longer than the OFF time, and becomes weaker as the OFF time is longer than the ON time. Further, regarding the vibration intensity of the operation button 150 by the drive device, when the ON time and the OFF time are the same, the one that is frequently switched between the ON time and the OFF time (for example, the ON time and the OFF time are each 100 ms). The ON time and the OFF time are each set to 50 ms).

FIG. 50 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a vibration mode in the third modification.
In the third modification, a plurality of types of vibration patterns are prepared as vibration modes. Each vibration pattern is stored in the ROM of the effect control microcomputer 100. In the illustrated example, five types of vibration patterns are prepared as vibration modes. The vibration mode shown in FIG. 50 is a basic vibration pattern.

Further, each vibration pattern corresponds to, for example, vibration intensity “absent”, “weak”, “weak”, “medium”, and “strong”. A corresponding display mode (for example, the display mode of the operation button 150) is associated with each vibration pattern. When the operation button 150 vibrates in a certain vibration pattern, for example, each LED incorporated in the operation button 150 emits light in a display mode corresponding to the vibration pattern.

The vibration pattern VP1 is, for example, a state in which the drive device is constantly controlled to be OFF, that is, a state in which the vibration intensity is “none”, in other words, a vibration pattern that does not vibrate (is not vibrating). The display mode corresponding to this time is a display mode “none”, that is, a display mode in which the operation button 150 does not emit light.

The vibration pattern VP2 is a vibration pattern in which the driving device is repeatedly controlled so that the ON time is 100 ms and the OFF time is 150 ms, that is, the vibration intensity is “weak”. The display mode corresponding to this time is the display mode “white”, that is, the display mode of the operation button 150 is white.

The vibration pattern VP3 is a vibration pattern in which the driving device is repeatedly controlled so that the ON time is 100 ms and the OFF time is 100 ms, that is, the vibration intensity is “weak”. The corresponding display mode at this time is the display mode “blue”, that is, the display mode of the operation button 150 is blue.

The vibration pattern VP4 is a vibration pattern in which the drive device is repeatedly controlled so that the ON time is 80 ms and the OFF time is 80 ms, that is, the vibration intensity is “medium”. The corresponding display mode at this time is the display mode “yellow”, that is, the display mode of the operation button 150 is yellow.

The vibration pattern VP5 is, for example, a vibration pattern in which the drive device is constantly controlled to be ON, that is, the vibration intensity is “strong”. The corresponding display mode at this time is the display mode “red”, that is, the display mode of the operation button 150 is red.

As described above, the operation button 150 can vibrate in a plurality of vibration modes (vibration patterns) as shown in FIG. When the vibration effect is executed according to this vibration pattern, in the operation button 150, the notification effect is also obtained by causing each LED incorporated in the operation button 150 to emit light in a display mode corresponding to the vibration mode (vibration pattern). Executed. The notification effect is an effect of notifying the vibration mode, and is, for example, an effect of notifying the vibration intensity by the display mode (for example, the emission color) of the operation button 150. As described above, each vibration pattern is associated with the corresponding presentation mode of the notification presentation (for example, the display mode of the operation button 150).

That is, the effect control microcomputer 100 executes the vibration effect for vibrating the operation button 150 by controlling the ON time and the OFF time of the drive device with the vibration time as shown in FIG. 50, and the operation by the vibration effect. After starting the vibration of the button 150, a notification effect corresponding to the vibration pattern of the vibration effect is executed.

For example, when the vibration effect of the operation button 150 is executed by the vibration pattern VP1 (vibration intensity “absent”), the display mode (corresponding display mode) “absent” (no lighting) of the operation button 150 as the corresponding notification effect. When the vibration effect of the operation button 150 is executed by the vibration pattern VP2 (vibration intensity “weak”), the display mode (corresponding display mode) of the operation button 150 becomes “white” as the corresponding notification effect. When the vibration effect of 150 is executed by the vibration pattern VP3 (vibration strength “weak”), the display mode (corresponding display mode) of the operation button 150 is “blue” as the corresponding notification effect, and the vibration effect of the operation button 150 is displayed. Is performed by the vibration pattern VP4 (vibration intensity “medium”), the display mode (corresponding display mode) of the operation button 150 is “yellow” as the corresponding notification effect, and the vibration effect of the operation button 150 is the vibration pattern VP5. When the vibration effect is executed, when the vibration effect is executed, the notification mode is also set such that the display mode (corresponding display mode) of the operation button 150 is “red” as the corresponding notification effect. Executed.

By doing so, even if the player cannot recognize the current vibration intensity of the operation button 150, the player can recognize the vibration intensity by the notification effect, so that the player can recognize the vibration intensity. The interest of can be improved.

FIG. 51 is a timing chart showing the relationship between the ON time and the OFF time of the drive device in the vibration time in the third modification.
51A is a timing chart corresponding to the vibration pattern VP1 shown in FIG. 50, FIG. 51B is a timing chart corresponding to the vibration pattern VP2 shown in FIG. 50, and FIG. 50 is a timing chart corresponding to the vibration pattern VP3 shown in FIG. 50, FIG. 51(D) is a timing chart corresponding to the vibration pattern VP4 shown in FIG. 50, and FIG. 51(E) is a vibration chart shown in FIG. It is a timing chart corresponding to pattern VP5.

As described above, the vibration does not occur when it is always off. Further, the vibration becomes stronger as the ON time is longer than the OFF time, and becomes weaker as the OFF time is longer than the ON time. Further, the vibration becomes stronger when the ON time and the OFF time are frequently switched when the ON time and the OFF time are the same. Further, when the vibration is always ON, the vibration becomes stronger than that controlled by the ON time and the OFF time.

Next, the vibration mode (vibration change pattern) of the vibration effect will be described.

FIG. 52: is a figure which shows an example of the vibration mode of the vibration production in a 3rd modification.
In the third modification, a plurality of types of vibration change patterns are prepared as the effect mode (vibration mode) of the vibration effect. For example, four types of vibration change patterns are prepared as vibration modes. Each vibration change pattern is configured by a combination of vibration patterns (VP1 to VP5) according to the vibration intensity shown in FIG. Also, each vibration change pattern is stored in the ROM of the effect control microcomputer 100.

In the illustrated example, the vibration change pattern VHP1 is a vibration mode of a vibration effect in which the vibration intensity changes from the vibration pattern VP1 (vibration intensity “none”) to the vibration pattern VP2 (vibration intensity “weak”).
In the vibration change pattern VHP2, the vibration intensity changes from the vibration pattern VP1 (vibration intensity “none”) to the vibration pattern VP2 (vibration intensity “weak”), and further from the vibration pattern (vibration intensity “weak”) to the vibration pattern VP3 (vibration). It is a vibration mode of the vibration effect that changes to strength “weak”).
In the vibration change pattern VHP3, the vibration intensity changes from the vibration pattern VP1 (vibration intensity “none”) to the vibration pattern VP2 (vibration intensity “weak”), and further from the vibration pattern (vibration intensity “weak”) to the vibration pattern VP3 (vibration). This is the vibration mode of the vibration effect in which the vibration pattern VP3 (vibration strength "weak") changes to the vibration pattern VP4 (vibration strength "medium") after changing to the strength "weak").
In the vibration change pattern VHP4, the vibration vibration intensity changes from the vibration pattern VP1 (vibration intensity “none”) to the vibration pattern VP2 (vibration intensity “weak”), and further from the vibration pattern (vibration intensity “weak”) to the vibration pattern VP3 ( Vibration pattern VP3 (vibration strength "weak") then vibration pattern VP4 (vibration strength "medium"), and finally vibration pattern VP4 (vibration strength "medium"). It is a vibration mode of the vibration effect that changes to VP5 (vibration strength “strong”).

The change of the vibration pattern (vibration intensity) in each vibration change pattern changes every predetermined time, for example, every 2 seconds. For example, in the case of the vibration change pattern VHP4, the vibration of the operation button 150 is started by the vibration pattern VP1 (vibration intensity “none”), and the vibration intensity is changed from the vibration pattern VP1 by a predetermined time after the start of the vibration by the vibration pattern VP1. VP2 (vibration intensity "weak"), and after a predetermined time from the start of vibration by the vibration pattern VP2, the vibration intensity changes from the vibration pattern VP2 to the vibration pattern VP3 (vibration strength "weak"), and from the vibration start by the vibration pattern VP3. The vibration intensity changes from the vibration pattern VP3 to the vibration pattern VP4 (vibration intensity “medium”) after a predetermined time, and the vibration intensity changes from the vibration pattern VP4 to the vibration pattern VP5 (vibration intensity “strong”) after a predetermined time from the start of vibration by the vibration pattern VP4. ).

The notification effect is executed after the vibration of the operation button 150 corresponding to each vibration pattern in the vibration change pattern is started. For example, the effect control CPU 101 executes a vibration effect for vibrating the operation button 150 by controlling the ON time and the OFF time of the drive device with the vibration time as shown in FIG. 50, and the operation button 150 by the vibration effect. The notification effect is executed at a timing when a predetermined time has elapsed after the start of the vibration of, for example, a timing after one second. That is, the effect control CPU 101 displays the display mode of the operation button 150 as a notification effect at a timing when a predetermined time has elapsed after starting the vibration of the operation button 150 by the vibration effect, for example, at a timing 1 second later, corresponding to the vibration pattern. It is displayed in the form.

When the vibration effect based on the vibration change pattern VHP1 is executed, the display mode of the operation button 150 changes from "none" to "white" according to the change in the vibration intensity (change from the vibration intensity "absent" to "weak"). The notification effect is executed.
When the vibration effect based on the vibration change pattern VHP2 is executed, the display mode of the operation button 150 is “none”, “white”, in accordance with the change in the vibration intensity (vibration intensity “absent”→“weak”→“weak”). The notification effect that changes in the order of "blue" is executed.
When the vibration effect by the vibration change pattern VHP3 is executed, the display mode of the operation button 150 is “none” according to the change in the vibration intensity (vibration intensity “absent”→“weak”→“weak”→“medium”). The notification effect that changes in the order of “white”, “blue”, and “yellow” is executed.
When the vibration effect based on the vibration change pattern VHP4 is executed, the display mode of the operation button 150 changes according to the change in the vibration intensity (vibration intensity “none”→“weak”→“weak”→“medium”→“strong”). The notification effect that changes in the order of “none”, “white”, “blue”, “yellow”, and “red” is executed.

For example, in the case of the vibration change pattern VHP4, the vibration of the operation button 150 is started by the vibration pattern VP1 (vibration intensity “none”) as the vibration effect, and one second after the start of the vibration by the vibration pattern VP1 as the notification effect, the vibration pattern VP1. Each LED incorporated in the operation button 150 is caused to emit light in the display mode corresponding to (corresponding display mode “none”), and the vibration intensity changes from the vibration pattern VP1 to the vibration pattern VP2 2 seconds after the start of vibration by the vibration pattern VP1 as a vibration effect. (Vibration intensity “weak”), and each one incorporated in the push-button 150 in a display mode (corresponding display mode “white”) corresponding to the vibration pattern VP2 as a notification effect 1 second after the start of vibration by the vibration pattern VP2. The LED is caused to emit light, and the vibration intensity changes from the vibration pattern VP2 to the vibration pattern VP3 (vibration intensity “weak”) 2 seconds after the start of the vibration according to the vibration pattern VP2 as a vibration effect, and 1 second after the start of the vibration according to the vibration pattern VP3. As an effect, each LED incorporated in the operation button 150 is caused to emit light in a display mode (corresponding display mode “blue”) corresponding to the vibration pattern VP3, and as a vibration effect, the vibration intensity is the vibration pattern 2 seconds after the start of the vibration by the vibration pattern VP3. The operation pattern changes from VP3 to the vibration pattern VP4 (vibration intensity "medium"), and one second after the start of vibration by the vibration pattern VP4, the operation button 150 is displayed as a notification effect corresponding to the vibration pattern VP4 (corresponding display mode "yellow"). Each built-in LED is made to emit light, and the vibration intensity changes from the vibration pattern VP4 to the vibration pattern VP5 (vibration intensity “strong”) 2 seconds after the start of vibration by the vibration pattern VP4 as a vibration effect, and from the vibration start by the vibration pattern VP5. After 1 second, each LED incorporated in the operation button 150 is caused to emit light in a display mode (corresponding display mode “red”) corresponding to the vibration pattern VP5 as a notification effect.

In other words, the effect control CPU 101 starts the execution of the vibration effect that controls the drive device according to the vibration change pattern to vibrate the operation button 150, and causes the operation button 150 to vibrate according to the vibration pattern included in the vibration change pattern. After the start, the notification effect is executed in the effect mode corresponding to the vibration pattern, and when the vibration of the operation button 150 changes due to the vibration pattern included in the vibration change pattern, the vibration corresponding to each vibration pattern is started. After that, the notification effect is executed in the effect mode corresponding to each vibration change pattern.

Returning to FIG. 48, after executing the process of step S905, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the vibration effect is executed (step S906). When the vibration effect is not executed, that is, when the vibration effect is not executed (step S906; N), the effect control CPU 101 ends the vibration effect determination process. When the vibration effect has been executed (step S905; Y), the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not to be a big hit (step S907). Whether or not to be a big hit can be determined by the variation pattern command stored in the variation pattern command storage area.

When it is not a big hit (step S907; N), the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not reach B is reached (step S908). Whether or not the reach B is reached can be determined by the variation pattern command stored in the variation pattern command storage area.

When the reach B is not reached (step S908; N), the effect control CPU 101 reads a value from the counter for generating the vibration change pattern determination random number, and sets the read value as the vibration change pattern determination random number. Then, the effect control CPU 101 determines the vibration change pattern as the vibration mode of the vibration effect based on the value of the random number for vibration change pattern determination and the vibration change pattern determination table A (step S909). At this time, the effect control CPU 101 keeps the display mode of the operation promotion image 9a determined from the effect modes determined in step S903, that is, the display mode of the operation promotion image 9a and the mode of the changed operation button 150. Then, the mode of the changed operation button 150 is replaced with the display mode of the operation button 150 according to the vibration change pattern determined in step S909. That is, when the vibration effect is executed (step S906; Y), the effect control CPU 101 cancels the already-displayed display mode of the changed operation button 150, and according to the vibration change pattern determined in step S909. The effect contents are overwritten on the display form of the operation button.

In the case of reach B (step S908; Y), the effect control CPU 101 reads the value from the counter for generating the vibration change pattern determination random number, and sets the read value as the vibration change pattern determination random number. Then, the effect control CPU 101 determines the vibration change pattern as the vibration mode of the vibration effect based on the value of the random number for vibration change pattern determination and the vibration change pattern determination table B (step S910). At this time, the effect control CPU 101 keeps the display mode of the operation promotion image 9a determined from the effect modes determined in step S903, that is, the display mode of the operation promotion image 9a and the mode of the changed operation button 150. Then, the mode of the operation button 150 after the change is replaced with the display mode of the operation button 150 according to the vibration change pattern determined in step S910. That is, when executing the vibration effect (step S906; Y), the effect control CPU 101 cancels the display mode of the operation button 150 after the change that has already been determined, and responds to the vibration change pattern determined in step S910. The effect contents are overwritten on the display form of the operation button.

On the other hand, in the case of a big hit (step S907; Y), the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not reach B is reached (step S911). Whether or not the reach B is reached can be determined by the variation pattern command stored in the variation pattern command storage area.

When the reach B does not occur (step S911; N), the effect control CPU 101 reads a value from the counter for generating the vibration change pattern determination random number, and sets the read value as the vibration change pattern determination random number. Then, the effect control CPU 101 determines the vibration change pattern as the vibration mode of the vibration effect based on the value of the random number for vibration change pattern determination and the vibration change pattern determination table C (step S912). At this time, the effect control CPU 101 keeps the display mode of the operation promotion image 9a determined from the effect modes determined in step S903, that is, the display mode of the operation promotion image 9a and the mode of the changed operation button 150. Then, the mode of the operation button 150 after the change is replaced with the display mode of the operation button 150 according to the vibration change pattern determined in step S912. That is, when executing the vibration effect (step S906; Y), the effect control CPU 101 cancels the display mode of the operation button 150 after the change that has already been determined, and according to the vibration change pattern determined in step S912. The effect contents are overwritten on the display form of the operation button.

In the case of reach B (step S911; Y), the effect control CPU 101 reads the value from the counter for generating the vibration change pattern determination random number, and sets the read value as the vibration change pattern determination random number. Then, the effect control CPU 101 determines the vibration change pattern as the vibration mode of the vibration effect based on the value of the random number for vibration change pattern determination and the vibration change pattern determination table D (step S913). At this time, the effect control CPU 101 keeps the display mode of the operation promotion image 9a determined from the effect modes determined in step S903, that is, the display mode of the operation promotion image 9a and the mode of the changed operation button 150. Then, the mode of the changed operation button 150 is replaced with the display mode of the operation button 150 according to the vibration change pattern determined in step S913. That is, when the vibration effect is executed (step S906; Y), the effect control CPU 101 cancels the display mode of the operation button 150 after the change that has already been determined, and according to the vibration change pattern determined in step S913. The effect contents are overwritten on the display form of the operation button.

Then, after performing any one of the processes of step S909, step S910, step S912, and step S913, the effect control CPU 101 causes the determined operation effect effect mode (including the overwritten operation effect effect mode) and vibration. The effect mode of the effect is stored in the RAM (step S914). Specifically, when the vibration effect is not executed in the process of step S914, the effect mode of the operation effect is stored in the RAM as the effect mode. When the vibration effect is executed in the processing of step S914, the display mode of the operation promotion image 9a and the vibration change pattern are stored in the RAM as the operation mode as the operation effect. Then, the vibration effect determination process ends.

After the processing of step S901, the processing of steps S904, S905, and S906 is performed without executing the processing of steps S902 and S903, and after the processing of steps S909, S910, S912, and S913, If it is determined in step S901 that the reach is not reached, the processes in step S902 and step S903 may be performed after it is determined in step S906 that the vibration effect is not executed.

For example, in the processing of steps S902 and S903 performed after the processing of step S909, step S910, step S912, and step S913, the value of the operation effect determination random number is extracted, and the value of the extracted operation effect determination random number and the operation Based on the effect determination table, only the display mode of the operation promotion image 9a is determined as the effect mode of the operation effect, and when it is determined in step S901 that the reach is not reached or in step S906 it is determined that the vibration effect is not executed. In the processing of steps S902 and S903 performed after the case, the value of the operation effect determination random number is extracted, and the operation promotion image 9a is displayed based on the extracted operation effect determination random value and the operation effect determination table. The display mode and the display mode of the changed operation button 150 may be determined as the effect mode of the operation effect.

FIG. 53 is a diagram showing an example of setting the determination rate of the vibration change pattern by the vibration change pattern determination table in the third modified example.

FIG. 53A shows an example of setting the determination rate of the vibration change pattern by the vibration change pattern determination table A used in the process of step S909 described above. In other words, FIG. 53(A) shows an example of setting the determination rate of the vibration change pattern when the variation pattern is reach A (out), that is, when the reach is normal.
FIG. 53B shows a setting example of the determination rate of the vibration change pattern by the vibration change pattern determination table B used in the process of step S910 described above. In other words, FIG. 53B shows an example of setting the determination rate of the vibration change pattern when the variation pattern is reach B (out), that is, when the reach is super reach.
FIG. 53C shows a setting example of the determination rate of the vibration change pattern by the vibration change pattern determination table C used in the processing of step S912 described above. In other words, FIG. 53C shows an example of setting the determination rate of the vibration change pattern when the variation pattern is the reach A (big hit) (that is, when the normal reach (big hit)).
FIG. 53D shows a setting example of the determination rate of the vibration change pattern by the vibration change pattern determination table D used in the processing of step S913 described above. In other words, FIG. 53D shows an example of setting the determination rate of the vibration change pattern when the variation pattern is the reach B (big hit) (that is, when the normal reach (big hit)).
Each of the vibration change pattern determination tables A to D is stored in, for example, the ROM of the effect control microcomputer 100.

As shown in FIG. 53(A), according to the vibration change pattern determination table A, the vibration change pattern VHP1 is determined at a determination rate of 100%, the vibration change pattern VHP2 is determined at a determination rate of 0%, and the vibration change pattern is determined. VHP3 is determined at a determination rate of 0%, and vibration change pattern VHP4 is determined at a determination rate of 0%. In the vibration change pattern determination table A, the vibration change pattern VHP1 is determined at a determination rate of 100%, the vibration change pattern VHP2 is determined at a determination rate of 0%, and the vibration change pattern VHP3 is determined at a determination rate of 0%. The determined value to be determined and compared with the random number value for determining the vibration change pattern is assigned to each of the vibration change pattern VHP1 to the vibration change pattern VHP4 so that the vibration change pattern VHP4 is determined at the determination rate of 0%. Just do it. Specifically, each of the vibration change patterns VHP1, VHP2, VHP3, and VHP4 is determined so that the ratio of the number assigned to each of the vibration change patterns VHP1, VHP2, VHP3, and VHP4 is 100:0:0:0. The value only needs to be assigned.

As shown in FIG. 53B, according to the vibration change pattern determination table B, the vibration change pattern VHP1 is determined at a determination rate of 10%, the vibration change pattern VHP2 is determined at a determination rate of 50%, and the vibration change pattern is determined. VHP3 is determined at a determination rate of 40%, and vibration change pattern VHP4 is determined at a determination rate of 0%. In the vibration change pattern determination table B, the vibration change pattern VHP1 is determined at a determination rate of 10%, the vibration change pattern VHP2 is determined at a determination rate of 50%, and the vibration change pattern VHP3 is determined at a determination rate of 40%. The determination value to be determined and compared with the random number value for determining the vibration change pattern may be assigned to each of the vibration change patterns VHP1 to VHP4 so that the vibration change pattern VHP4 is determined at the determination rate of 0%. .. Specifically, each of the vibration change patterns VHP1, VHP2, VHP3, and VHP4 is determined as described above so that the ratio of the number assigned to each of the vibration change patterns VHP1, VHP2, VHP3, and VHP4 is 10:50:40:0. The value only needs to be assigned.

As shown in FIG. 53(C), according to the vibration change pattern determination table C, the vibration change pattern VHP1 is determined at a determination rate of 40%, the vibration change pattern VHP2 is determined at a determination rate of 60%, and the vibration change pattern is determined. VHP3 is determined at a determination rate of 0%, and vibration change pattern VHP4 is determined at a determination rate of 0%. In the vibration change pattern determination table C, the vibration change pattern VHP1 is determined at a determination rate of 40%, the vibration change pattern VHP2 is determined at a determination rate of 60%, and the vibration change pattern VHP3 is determined at a determination rate of 0%. The determination value to be determined and compared with the random number value for determining the vibration change pattern may be assigned to each of the vibration change patterns VHP1 to VHP4 so that the vibration change pattern VHP4 is determined at the determination rate of 0%. .. Specifically, each of the vibration change patterns VHP1, VHP2, VHP3, and VHP4 is determined as described above so that the ratio of the number assigned to each of the vibration change patterns VHP1, VHP2, VHP3, and VHP4 is 40:60:0:0. The value only needs to be assigned.

As shown in FIG. 53D, according to the vibration change pattern determination table D, the vibration change pattern VHP1 is determined at a determination rate of 10%, the vibration change pattern VHP2 is determined at a determination rate of 20%, and the vibration change pattern is determined. VHP3 is determined at a determination rate of 30%, and vibration change pattern VHP4 is determined at a determination rate of 40%. In the vibration change pattern determination table D, the vibration change pattern VHP1 is determined at a determination rate of 10%, the vibration change pattern VHP2 is determined at a determination rate of 20%, and the vibration change pattern VHP3 is determined at a determination rate of 30%. The determined value to be compared with the vibration change pattern determination random number value may be assigned to each of the vibration change patterns VHP1 to VHP4 so that the vibration change pattern VHP4 is determined at a determination rate of 40%. .. Specifically, each of the vibration change patterns VHP1, VHP2, VHP3, and VHP4 is determined as described above so that the ratio of the number assigned to each of the vibration change patterns VHP1, VHP2, VHP3, and VHP4 is 10:20:30:40. The value only needs to be assigned.

In the example illustrated in FIG. 53, when the reach is hot (eg, reach B (super reach)), a vibration change pattern that changes to a stronger vibration pattern than when the reach is not hot (eg, reach A (normal reach)) is determined. It is set to be easy to be done. Further, it is set so that when a big hit occurs, a vibration change pattern that changes to a stronger vibration change pattern is more easily determined than when a big hit occurs.

By doing so, the effect mode (vibration change pattern) of the vibration effect is determined according to the degree of expectation that is controlled to advantage, so that the player's interest can be improved.

FIG. 54 is a flowchart showing an example of the effect symbol variation process (step S802) in the third modified example.
In the effect symbol variation process, the effect control CPU 101 decrements the respective values of the process timer and the variation time timer by -1 (steps S840A and S840B).

If the button valid period timer is operating, the value of the button valid period timer is decremented by 1 (step S840C).

When the button effective period timer times out (the value becomes 0) (step S840D), the effect control CPU 101 erases the operation prompting image 9a from the display screen of the effect display device 9 and changes the mode of the operation button 150. The normal mode is restored (step S840E).

Further, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the process timer has timed out (step S841). If the timeout has not occurred, the process proceeds to step S844. If the process timer has timed out, the process data is switched. That is, the process timer is newly started by setting the process timer set value set next in the process table in the process timer (step S842).

Further, the effect control CPU 101 changes the control state for the effect device (effect parts) based on the display control execution data, the lamp control execution data and the sound number data which are set next (step S843). Then, the process proceeds to step S844.

In step S844, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the value of the variable time timer has reached a value corresponding to the passage of a predetermined time. The predetermined time is a time during the reach effect after the reach is reached, and is, for example, 5 seconds before the effect symbol is determined (displayed by derivation) during the reach effect. If the value of the variable time timer is not the value corresponding to the elapse of the predetermined time, the process proceeds to step S852.

When the value of the variable time timer reaches a value corresponding to the passage of a predetermined time, the effect control CPU 101 displays the operation promotion image 9a in the display mode determined in the process of step S902 and stored in the RAM (step S902). S845).

When it is determined that the vibration effect is not executed in the process of step S905, the effect control CPU 101 changes the mode of the operation button 150 to the display mode determined in the process of step S902 and stored in the RAM. It is changed (step S846A).
On the other hand, when it is determined in the process of step S905 to execute the vibration effect, the effect control CPU 101 executes the vibration effect by vibrating in accordance with the vibration change pattern. In addition, any one of step S909, step S910, step S912, and step S913 at the timing after the execution of the vibration effect is started and the vibration mode is changed by each vibration pattern included in the vibration change pattern (for example, 1 second later). The display mode of the operation button 150 corresponding to the vibration pattern in the vibration change pattern determined by the processing of step S1 and stored in the RAM is changed (step S846A).

Specifically, in the process of step S905, when it is determined to execute the vibration effect, the effect control CPU 101 determines whether or not the detection of pressing the operation button 150 is continuing, and the operation button is determined. When the detection of the press of 150 continues, the vibration change pattern stored in the RAM of the effect control microcomputer 100, which is determined by any of the processes of step S909, step S910, step S912, and step S913. Vibration effect is executed by vibrating according to. In addition, any one of step S909, step S910, step S912, and step S913 at the timing after the execution of the vibration effect is started and the vibration mode is changed by each vibration pattern included in the vibration change pattern (for example, 1 second later). The display mode of the operation button 150 is changed according to the vibration pattern in the vibration change pattern stored in the RAM of the effect control microcomputer 100. On the other hand, the effect control CPU 101 performs the vibration effect when it is determined that the operation button 150 has not been pressed or when the operation button 150 is not detected when the vibration effect is being executed. Cancel.

When the operation button 150 is determined to be white in the process of step S846A, the effect control CPU 101 gives a drive signal to the white LED 151. When it is determined to make the operation button 150 red, a drive signal is given to the red LED 152. If the operation button 150 is determined to be blue, a drive signal is given to a blue LED (not shown). If the operation button 150 is determined to be yellow, a driving signal is given to a yellow LED (not shown). Further, when it is decided to vibrate the operation button 150 as the operation effect, a drive signal is given to the drive device. Further, when it is decided to vibrate the operation button 150 as the vibration effect, a drive signal is given to the drive device according to the vibration time (ON time, OFF time) as shown in FIG. 50 or FIG. ..

Specifically, the effect control CPU 101 determines whether or not the detection of the pressing of the operation button 150 continues, and when the detection of the pressing of the operation button 150 continues, the vibration change is performed as the vibration effect. When the operation button 150 is vibrated by the vibration pattern VP2 included in the pattern, a drive signal is given to the drive device according to the vibration time, and the white LED incorporated in the operation button 150 is driven according to the vibration pattern VP2 as a notification effect. Give a signal.
On the other hand, the effect control CPU 101 executes the vibration effect when it is determined that the operation button 150 has not been pressed or when the operation button 150 is not detected when the vibration effect is being executed. Cancel.
Further, the effect control CPU 101 determines whether or not the detection of pressing of the operation button 150 is continuing, and when the detection of pressing of the operation button 150 is continuing, it is included in the vibration change pattern as the vibration effect. When vibrating the operation button 150 according to the vibration pattern VP3, the drive signal is given to the drive device according to the vibration time, and the drive signal is given to the blue LED incorporated in the operation button 150 according to the vibration pattern VP3 as a notification effect. ..
On the other hand, the effect control CPU 101 performs the vibration effect when it is determined that the operation button 150 has not been pressed or when the operation button 150 is not detected when the vibration effect is being executed. Cancel. When the vibration effect is canceled, the effect control CPU 120 also cancels the notification effect.
Further, the effect control CPU 101 determines whether or not the detection of pressing of the operation button 150 is continuing, and when the detection of pressing of the operation button 150 is continuing, it is included in the vibration change pattern as the vibration effect. When vibrating the operation button 150 according to the vibration pattern VP4, the driving signal is given to the driving device according to the vibration time, and the driving signal is given to the yellow LED incorporated in the operation button 150 according to the vibration pattern VP4 as a notification effect. ..
On the other hand, the effect control CPU 101 executes the vibration effect when it is determined that the operation button 150 has not been pressed or when the operation button 150 is not detected when the vibration effect is being executed. Cancel. When the vibration effect is canceled, the effect control CPU 120 also cancels the notification effect.
Further, the effect control CPU 101 determines whether or not the detection of pressing of the operation button 150 is continuing, and when the detection of pressing of the operation button 150 is continuing, it is included in the vibration change pattern as the vibration effect. When vibrating the operation button 150 according to the vibration pattern VP5, the driving signal is given to the driving device according to the vibration time, and the driving signal is given to the red LED incorporated in the operation button 150 according to the vibration pattern VP5 as a notification effect. ..
On the other hand, the effect control CPU 101 performs the vibration effect when it is determined that the operation button 150 has not been pressed or when the operation button 150 is not detected when the vibration effect is being executed. Cancel. When the vibration effect is canceled, the effect control CPU 120 also cancels the notification effect.

Further, the effect control CPU 101 sets a value corresponding to the operation effective period in the button effective period timer (step S847). Then, the process proceeds to step S852.

In step S852, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the button effective period timer is operating (whether or not the value is 0). When the button effective period timer is operating, the effect control CPU 101 detects that the operation button 150 has been operated via the input port 107 (see FIG. 3) (step S853), and the effect display device 9 The operation prompting image 9a is erased from the display screen of (1) and the display mode of the operation button 150 is returned to the normal display mode (step S854). That is, the driving of the white LED 151, the red LED 152 and the driving device is stopped.

Note that the effect control CPU 101 executes a predetermined effect (the effect is included in the operation effect or the vibration effect) following the process of step S854. In that case, the effect control CPU 101 may execute a fixed effect, but may select the effect type from a plurality of types. When configured in such a manner, for example, in the operation effect determination process (see FIG. 29), the effect mode (display mode of the operation promotion image 9a and display mode of the changed operation button 150, or vibration change pattern) Along with determining the display mode of the operation button 150 according to the vibration pattern included in the vibration change pattern (the process of step S902 or step S909, step S910, step S912, or step S913), for example, a lottery using random numbers Determines the type of predetermined effect to be executed. Examples of the predetermined effect include display effect by a predetermined character image and predetermined game effect.

Further, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the variable time timer has timed out (step S861). When the fluctuation time timer has timed out, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value according to the effect design fluctuation stop process (step S803) (step S863). Even if the variable time timer has not timed out, if the confirmation command reception flag indicating that the symbol confirmation designation command has been received is set (step S862), the effect control CPU 101 executes the process of step S863.

Note that the operation effect may not be executed when the vibration effect is executed, the vibration effect may not be executed when the operation effect is executed, and either the vibration effect or the operation effect is executed. Whether to execute which effect is to be determined based on the effect determination table in which the value of the effect determination random number and the determination value to be compared with the value of the effect determination random number are set. Good.

(1) As described above, the gaming machine according to the third modified example is a gaming machine for playing a game, and the operating means (for example, the operation button 150) operable by the player and the operation using the operating means. Operation effect execution means for executing effects (for example, the process of step S846 in the effect control microcomputer 100), and an operation promotion image for prompting the player to perform an operation when the operation effects are executed, on the display means. Display control means for displaying (for example, the processing of step S845 in the effect control microcomputer 100), and notification effect execution means capable of executing the notification effect (for example, the processing of step S864A in the effect control microcomputer 100). , And the operating means has a plurality of modes (e.g., expectation to be a big hit, expectation to be a reach, expectation to be a highly accurate state, expectation to be a high base state, etc.) ( For example, it is changed to any one of "white", "red", "white/vibration", and "red/vibration" shown in FIG. (For example, “white/small”, “red/small”, “white/large”, “red/large”, etc. shown in FIG. 30), and the display control means changes according to the degree of advantage. A mode in which the operation promoting image is displayed in any of a plurality of modes and is common to the plurality of modes of the operating means (for example, “white” (“white/small” and “white/large” shown in FIG. 30), etc.) ) Common image display control means for displaying the operation promoting image (for example, the processing of steps S501 to S503, S845, S846 in the effect control microcomputer 100), the operation effect, the operation means (for example,. A vibration effect for vibrating the operation button 150 or the like is included, and when the operation unit is operated, the vibration is a plurality of vibration modes (for example, vibration change patterns VHP1, VHP2, VHP3 by a combination of a plurality of vibration patterns, It is possible to change in a vibration mode by VHP4 or the like), and in accordance with the change in the vibration mode, the effect mode of the notification effect (for example, the operation button has no, white, blue, yellow, or red mode depending on the vibration mode). ) Is changed.

With such a configuration, it is possible to improve the effect of the effect by the effect using the operation means, and it is possible to improve the interest of the player.

(2) Further, in the gaming machine described in (1) above, the vibration mode may be changed depending on an ON time and an OFF time of a drive unit that vibrates the operation unit (for example, FIGS. 50 and 51). The vibration intensity is changed like the combination of the ON time and the OFF time as shown in Fig. 52, and the vibration mode is changed like the vibration change pattern shown in Fig. 52).

With such a configuration, it is possible to make the player easily recognize the vibration mode.

(3) Further, in the gaming machine described in (1) or (2) above, the presentation mode of the notification effect changes at a timing after the timing at which the vibration mode changes (for example, the vibration effect is After being executed and the vibration intensity changes from nothing to weak, as a presentation mode of the notification effect, it is displayed by changing from nothing to a blue display mode, and as a presentation mode of the notification effect after the vibration intensity changes from weak to weak. , And the display mode is changed from blue to yellow).

According to such a configuration, first, the player can recognize the change in the effect mode by the change in the vibration mode.

(4) Further, in the gaming machine according to any one of the above (1) to (3), the notification effect is an effect by emitting light (for example, an operation button 150, an underframe lamp, and a role object). Lamps provided, the effect display device 9, an effect produced by light emission from a touch panel, etc.).

With such a configuration, it is possible to make the player recognize that the presentation mode is changing not only by vibrating but also by emitting light.

(5) Further, in the gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (4), the notification effect is an effect produced by being displayed by a display means (for example, an effect display device 9, a touch panel, (For example, an effect of displaying a character image on a sub liquid crystal).

With such a configuration, it is possible to make the player recognize that the presentation mode is changing not only by displaying the vibration but also by displaying the vibration.

(6) Further, the gaming machine according to the third modified example is a gaming machine that plays a game, and operation means that can be operated by the player, and operation effect execution means that executes operation effect using the operation means (for example, A portion for executing the process of step S846 in the effect control microcomputer 100, and a display control means (for example, effect) for displaying an operation promotion image for prompting the player to perform an operation when the operation effect is executed. And a portion for executing the process of step S845 in the control microcomputer 100), the operation effect executing means has a plurality of operation means (eg, in FIG. 30) according to the degree of advantage (eg, reliability of jackpot). "White", "red", "white/vibration", "red/vibration"), and the display control means displays the operation prompting image in a plurality of modes (for example, FIG. “White/Small”, “Red/Small”, “White/Large”, “Red/Large”), and a mode common to a plurality of modes of the operating means (for example, shown in FIG. 30). The common image display control means (for example, steps S501 to S503, S845, and S846 in the effect control microcomputer 100) for displaying the operation promotion image of "white" ("white/small" and "white/large"). Part to be executed).

With such a configuration, it is possible to further enhance the interest of the player by the effect using the operation means.

(7) In the gaming machine described in (6) above, the degree of advantage may be different depending on the combination of the mode of the operating means and the mode of the operation promotion image (see FIG. 30).

With such a configuration, the player can be focused on the combination of the mode of the operation means and the mode of the operation promotion image.

(8) In the gaming machine described in (6) or (7) above, a combination that does not appear among the combinations of the mode of the operation means and the mode of the operation promotion image (for example, "red/small" shown in FIG. 30 or There may be a combination of “red/large” and “red” or “red/vibration”).

With such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the combination that is considered inappropriate to present to the player from being displayed.

(9) In the gaming machine described in any of (6) to (8) above, after the game medium has passed through the starting area, the variable display of the identification information is performed based on the condition for starting the variable display being satisfied. In the gaming machine to be started, the variable display of the identification information in which the game medium has passed through the starting region (for example, the first starting winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14) but the starting condition is not satisfied is used as the pending storage. Hold storage means for storing (for example, first hold storage buffer and second hold storage buffer: see FIG. 12) and hold storage display means for displaying hold storage corresponding to hold storage (for example, in the production control microcomputer 100). A portion that executes the process of step S662), and an effective period setting unit that sets an effective period during which the operation of the operation unit is valid (for example, a portion of the effect control microcomputer 100 that executes the process of step S847), A determination unit that determines whether or not the operation unit is operated at a specific timing within the valid period (for example, a portion of the effect control microcomputer 100 that executes the processes of steps S852 and S853), and the determination unit is specified. When it is determined that the operation means has been operated at the timing (when the end of the meter portion in the meter-shaped image 9c reaches the specific position: see FIG. 34D), the specific effect is executed and the storage is suspended. Specific effect means for changing the display mode (for example, a part of the effect control microcomputer 100 that executes the processes of steps S856 and S857 and the process of the second modification) may be provided.

According to such a configuration, the player pays attention to the timing of the operation, so that it is possible to further enhance the interest of the player by the effect using the operation means.

In the above description, an example of a case where the vibration pattern changes in a predetermined time according to the vibration change pattern as the vibration effect, or a case where the display mode of the operation button 150 changes according to the vibration change pattern as the notification effect has been described. However, the vibration mode by the vibration effect and the notification mode by the notification effect may be changed according to the music and the effect. For example, when performing a vibration effect or a notification effect in accordance with music, the vibration mode is changed using a vibration pattern or a vibration change pattern that changes the vibration intensity in accordance with the melody of the music (for example, the low-pitched sound part), The notification effect may be executed according to the vibration change pattern or the vibration pattern.
By doing so, the effect of production can be improved, and the interest of the player can be improved.

In the above description, an example in which the operation button 150 is vibrated according to the vibration change pattern as the vibration effect has been described, but when the operation button 150 is vibrated according to the vibration change pattern, a notification for notifying the vibration is given. It may be possible to notify that the vibration effect is being executed by outputting a sound (for example, “BrublruBru”, “BruBruBruBru”, “Boo”, “Boo Boo”) from the speakers 27R and 27L.
By doing so, it is recognized that the vibration effect is being executed even when the player does not operate the operation button 150 when the vibration effect is executed, or when the player does not feel the vibration easily. It is possible to improve the effect.

Note that, in the above description, an example in which the LED of the operation button 150 emits light as the notification effect, but the notification effect may be executed by the light emission of the effect display device 9, a combination object, an underframe lamp, or the like. A touch panel may be provided, and the notification effect may be executed when the touch panel emits light. Further, the sub liquid crystal may be provided, and the notification effect may be executed by emitting light from the sub liquid crystal.

In the above description, an example in which the LED of the operation button 150 emits light as the notification effect is described, but the notification effect is displayed by displaying a character image on the effect display device 9, the sub liquid crystal, the touch panel, or the role object. May be executed.

Note that, in the above description, an example in which the LED of the operation button 150 emits light as the notification effect has been described, but the notification effect may be executed by operating the combination object.

In the above description, an example in which the LED of the operation button 150 emits light is used as the notification effect, but the notification effect may be executed by a sound such as voice, mechanical sound, or music.

In the above description, an example in which the LED of the operation button 150 emits light as the notification effect is described. However, a stick controller that can be operated according to the effect or the like is provided, and the stick controller is used instead of or in addition to the operation button. You may make it vibrate, and you may make it perform notification information by light-emitting the LED of this stick controller.

Note that, in the above description, an example in which the vibration effect is executed immediately after the start of fluctuation has been described, but, for example, it is reached immediately before the reach, when the pseudo continuous fluctuation is started, or after the pseudo continuous fluctuation ends. The vibration effect may be started at a timing such as time.

In the above description, an example in which an eccentric motor is used as a drive device has been described, but a linear vibrator may be used or a piezoresistive film may be used. In the case of using a piezoresistive film, instead of controlling the vibration time between the ON time and the OFF time, the vibration intensity may be controlled by the voltage application time between the HIGH and LOW applied voltages.

In the above description, an example in which the vibration intensity is changed by controlling the ON time and the OFF time of the driving device has been described. However, the vibration may be changed depending on the duty ratio or the like based on the relative ratio of the ON time and the OFF time. The strength may be changed, or when the piezoresistive film is used, the vibration strength may be changed according to the duty ratio or the like depending on the ratio of HIGH and LOW.

In the above description, an example in which the vibration intensity is changed by controlling the ON time and the OFF time of the drive device has been described, but the vibration intensity is changed by directly controlling the vibration speed of the drive device. The vibration intensity may be changed by controlling HIGH and LOW of the voltage instead of controlling the ON time and the OFF time.

In the above description, an example of the case where the vibration effect is executed according to the variation pattern has been described, but depending on other effects such as the number of wins in the big hit, the main notice effect and the pre-read notice effect, The vibration effect may be executed. For example, in the case where the vibration effect is executed according to the number of wins during the big hit, the vibration effect may be executed as an effect of notifying the number of wins after the big hit.

In the above description, an example of the case where the vibration effect is executed according to the variation pattern has been described, but for example, according to the added value (for example, the number of coins, etc.) that the player can obtain when the big hit game state is set. When performing a control to display a fanfare screen (big hit display processing in step S804) or when displaying the display result of the effect design that is a big hit (processing of final stop display of the effect design determined in step S822) or the big hit When the game state is controlled, a vibration effect or a notification effect may be executed as an effect to notify the expected degree of the added value to be obtained. In this case, for example, as an effect for notifying the obtainable added value, the vibration intensity becomes stronger as the added value increases stepwise (change from any of the vibration intensity “none” to the vibration intensity “strong”). Do). Specifically, the vibration change pattern is determined based on a vibration change pattern determination table to which a random number value for determination is assigned to the vibration change pattern and a value to be compared with the random number value for vibration change pattern determination according to the jackpot type. Should be decided.

As the vibration effect execution presence/absence determination table, a table in which a determination value to be compared with the value of the vibration effect execution presence/absence determination random number is set according to the number of stored memories and the presence/absence of execution of the vibration effect may be used. However, it is also possible to use a plurality of tables to which a determination value that is compared with the value of the random number for determining the presence/absence of vibration effect is assigned according to the variation pattern and the presence/absence of execution of the vibration effect according to the number of stored memories.

In the above description, an example in which the display mode of the operation button 150 changes as the notification effect according to the vibration change pattern when the operation button 150 vibrates according to the vibration change pattern as the vibration effect has been described. When the effect is being executed, the display mode of the character image or the like may be changed on the effect display device 9 according to the vibration pattern included in the vibration change pattern. At the time of the final vibration pattern in the vibration change pattern, a character image or the like notifying the advantageous state may be displayed.

In the above description, an example in which the vibration effect and the notification effect are executed when the pressing of the operation button 150 is detected has been described, but the vibration effect and the notification are performed even when the operation button 150 is not pressed. The effect may be executed. In this case, it is preferable that the vibration mode is a mechanism that is easy to understand, for example, a mechanism that generates a vibration sound according to the vibration.

In the above description, an example in which the vibration intensity gradually increases as the vibration mode of the vibration effect has been described, but the vibration mode may not be stepwise.

In the above description, an example in which the vibration mode of the vibration effect changes according to the vibration change pattern has been described. However, instead of using the vibration change pattern, the vibration may be changed according to the vibration pattern shown in FIG.
For example, when performing a vibration effect, one of the plurality of vibration patterns shown in FIG. 50 is determined as the vibration mode, the determined vibration pattern is vibrated, and the changed vibration pattern is, for example, the vibration shown in FIG. The vibration intensity may be changed by determining from the pattern. Specifically, the vibration pattern is determined based on the value of the vibration pattern determination random number and the vibration pattern determination table to which the determination value that is compared with the value of the vibration pattern determination random number is assigned, and the changed vibration pattern determination The post-change vibration pattern may be determined based on the post-change vibration pattern determination table to which the determination value that is compared with the random number value and the post-change vibration pattern determination random number value is assigned.

In the above description, an example in which the vibration mode of the vibration effect changes has been described, but the vibration mode may vibrate according to any vibration pattern so that the vibration mode does not change.
Further, when the vibration mode changes based on the vibration change execution presence/absence determination table to which the value of the vibration change execution presence/absence determination random number and the determination value that is compared with the value of the vibration change execution presence/absence determination random number are assigned. The vibration effect may be executed so that the aspect may not change.

Further, the pachinko gaming machine of the above-described embodiment is mainly able to give a predetermined game value to the player when the stop symbol of the special symbol which is variably displayed on the variable display portion based on the start winning is a predetermined symbol. Although it was a pachinko gaming machine that became a pachinko gaming machine that can give a predetermined game value to a player if there is a prize in a predetermined area of an electric role to open based on a starting winning prize, based on a starting winning prize The present invention can be applied even to a pachinko gaming machine in which a predetermined right is generated or continues when there is a prize for a predetermined electric accessory that is released when a stop pattern of the symbols that are variably displayed becomes a combination of predetermined symbols. .. Further, the present invention can be applied to a slot machine for inserting a game medal to set a bet number and playing a game, or a game machine for inserting a game ball instead of a game medal to set a bet number and playing a game.

For example, in a slot machine for playing a game, an operation means (for example, an effect button) that can be operated by a player, and an operation effect execution means for executing an operation effect using the operation means (for example, operation of an operation button) When a production microcomputer displaying an image that promotes a production, a production microcomputer for producing a production button for changing the display mode of the production button associated with the production, or the like), and the operation production are executed. Display control means for displaying on the display means an operation promotion image for prompting the player to perform an operation (for example, a process for displaying an image for promoting the operation of the effect button in the effect microcomputer on the liquid crystal display), and a notification effect And a notification effect executing unit (for example, a process of executing an information effect executed corresponding to a vibration effect for vibrating the effect button in the effect microcomputer). (For example, expectation to be a big bonus or regular bonus, expectation to be a ceiling game, expectation to be a highly accurate state, expectation to be an ART, AT, or RT state) (for example, " (White, red, white/vibration, red/vibration, etc.), and the display control means displays the operation prompting image in a plurality of modes (for example, “white/vibration”) according to the degree of advantage. "Small", "red/small", "white/large", "red/large", etc.), and the display control means displays the operation promotion image in any of a plurality of modes depending on the degree of advantage. Common image display control means for displaying the operation promoting image in a mode common to a plurality of modes of the operation means (for example, “white” (“white/small” and “white/large”), etc.). (For example, a process of displaying an image of a common display mode on the liquid crystal display for promoting the operation of the effect buttons in the effect microcomputer in the effect microcomputer, etc.), and the operation effect includes the operation means (eg effect effect). A vibration effect for vibrating a button or the like is included, and the vibration changes in a plurality of vibration modes (for example, a vibration mode according to a vibration change pattern by a combination of a plurality of vibration patterns) when the operation unit is operated. It is possible, and the effect mode of the notification effect changes in accordance with the change of the vibration mode (for example, the display mode of the effect button changes to none, white, blue, yellow, or red mode in accordance with the change of the vibration mode). It can be changed).

With such a configuration, it is possible to improve the effect of the effect by the effect using the operation means, and it is possible to improve the interest of the player.

Further, in the above-described embodiment, the variation time, the type of reach effect, and the like (special effects such as pseudo continuous effect, which is an effect in which temporary stop and re-change of the symbol are executed once or more during one variable display) An example in which one variation pattern command is transmitted at the time of starting variation in order to notify the production control microcomputer 100 of a variation pattern indicating a variation mode such as the presence or absence of execution). However, the variation pattern may be notified to the effect control microcomputer 100 by two or more commands. Specifically, in the case of notifying with two commands, the game control microcomputer 560 determines whether the first command is presence/absence of pseudo-relation, presence/absence of sliding effect, etc. before reaching (so-called when not reaching. A command indicating the variation time and variation mode before the second stop is transmitted, and as the second command, such as the type of reach and the presence/absence of re-lottery production, etc., after the reach is reached (when the reach is not reached, the so-called You may make it transmit the command which shows the fluctuation|variation time after the 2nd stop and a fluctuation mode. In that case, the effect control microcomputer 100 may perform effect control in the variable display (variable display) based on the variable time derived from the combination of the two commands. It should be noted that the game control microcomputer 560 may notify the change time with each of the two commands, and the effect control microcomputer 100 may select a specific change mode executed at each timing. .. When sending two commands, the two commands may be sent within the same timer interrupt, and after a predetermined period has elapsed after sending the first command (for example, the next timer A second command may be sent (at the interrupt). Note that the variation mode indicated by each command is not limited to such an example, and the order of transmission can be changed as appropriate. By thus notifying the variation pattern with two or more commands, the amount of data that must be stored as the variation pattern command can be reduced.

Further, the gaming machine according to the present invention is not limited to a gaming machine that pays out a predetermined number of game media as prizes, but encloses game media such as game balls and encloses points when a prize giving condition is satisfied. It can also be applied to a game machine of the type.

In the present specification, the expression “high (large) ratio” (or “increasing the ratio”) also includes the case of 100% (or the case of increasing 100%). , "When the ratio is different", the ratio is not limited to A:B=70%:30% and A:B=50%:50%. = 100%: 0%, such that the ratio is different (that is, one is 100% allocation and the other is 0% allocation). The “low (small) ratio” (or “reduce the ratio”) also includes 0% (or 0%).

Further, in the above-described embodiment, the production control board 80, the sound output board 70, and the lamp driver board 35 are provided as the boards on which the circuits for controlling the effect device are mounted. You may mount on one board. Further, a first effect control board (display control board) on which a circuit for controlling the effect display device 9 and the like is mounted, and a circuit for controlling other effect devices (lamps, LEDs, speakers 27R, 27L, etc.) are installed. You may make it provide two boards, such as the second effect control board.

Further, in the above-described embodiment, the game control microcomputer 560 directly sends a command to the effect control microcomputer 100, but the game control microcomputer 560 may be provided on another board (for example, FIG. 3). To the sound output board 70, the lamp driver board 35, etc., or the function provided by the circuit mounted on the sound output board 70 and the function provided by the circuit mounted on the lamp driver board 35. You may make it transmit a control command, and may be made to be transmitted to the production control microcomputer 100 in the production control board 80 via another board. In that case, the command may simply be passed on another board, or control means such as a microcomputer may be mounted on the voice output board 70, the lamp driver board 35, and the sound/lamp board so that the control means receives the command. According to what is done, control relating to voice control and lamp control is executed, and further, the received command is changed as it is or, for example, a simplified command, and the effect control microcomputer 100 for controlling the effect display device 9 is executed. It may be transmitted to. Even in that case, the effect control microcomputer 100 performs the display control according to the effect control command directly received from the game control microcomputer 560 in the above-described embodiment, similarly to the sound output board 70 and the lamp driver. Display control can be performed in response to commands received from the substrate 35 or the sound/lamp substrate.

Further, in the above-described embodiment, fluctuations such as the fluctuation time and the type of reach effect and presence/absence of pseudo-relationship (effect in which temporary stop and re-changing of symbols are executed once or more during one variable display) In order to notify the effect control microcomputer 100 of the variation pattern indicating the aspect, an example in which one variation pattern command is transmitted at the start of variation has been shown, but the variation pattern is controlled by two or more commands. You may make it notify to the microcomputer 100 for use. Specifically, in the case of notifying with two commands, the game control microcomputer 560 determines whether the first command is presence/absence of pseudo-relation, presence/absence of sliding effect, or the like before reaching (so-called if not reaching. A command indicating the variation time and variation mode before the second stop is transmitted, and as the second command, such as the type of reach and the presence/absence of re-lottery production, etc., after the reach is reached (when the reach is not reached, the so-called You may make it transmit the command which shows the fluctuation|variation time after the 2nd stop and a fluctuation mode. In that case, the effect control microcomputer 100 may perform effect control in the variable display (variable display) based on the variable time derived from the combination of the two commands. It should be noted that the game control microcomputer 560 may notify the change time with each of the two commands, and the effect control microcomputer 100 may select a specific change mode executed at each timing. .. When sending two commands, the two commands may be sent within the same timer interrupt, and after a predetermined period has elapsed after sending the first command (for example, the next timer A second command may be sent (at the interrupt). Note that the variation mode indicated by each command is not limited to such an example, and the transmission order can be changed as appropriate. By thus notifying the variation pattern with two or more commands, the amount of data that must be stored as the variation pattern command can be reduced.

Further, the gaming machine of the above embodiment, there is a probability variation big hit or normal jackpot as a big hit type, based on the fact that it was determined as a probability variation big hit as a big hit type, it is a gaming machine controlled to a probability variation state after the big hit game ends However, it is not limited to such a gaming machine. For example, a special variable winning ball device having a predetermined probability variation region provided therein (the probability variable region may be provided in only one special variable winning ball device, or a plurality of special variable winning balls are provided). The probability variation area may be provided in a part of the device.), and the probability variation is determined based on the fact that the game ball has passed the probability variation area in the special variable winning ball device during the big hit game, and the big hit. It is also possible to apply the functions in the above-described embodiments to a gaming machine that is controlled in a probability change state after the game is over.

In addition, although each embodiment and each modification were demonstrated in the above description, any two or more of each of these embodiments and each modification may be combined. Also in this case, the same effects as those of the above-described embodiments and modifications can be obtained.

The present invention is applicable to gaming machines such as pachinko gaming machines.

1 Pachinko gaming machine 8a 1st special symbol display 8b 2nd special symbol display 9 effect display device 13 1st start winning hole 14 2nd start winning hole 15 variable winning ball device 31 main board 80 effect control board 100 for effect control Microcomputer 150 Operation button 151 White LED
152 Red LED
153 Vibrator 560 Game control microcomputer

Claims (1)

A gaming machine for playing a game,
An operation means that can be operated by the player,
An operation effect executing means for executing an operation effect using the operation means,
Display control means for displaying on the display means an operation promotion image for prompting the player to perform an operation when the operation effect is executed;
Notification effect execution means capable of executing notification effect,
Equipped with
The operation effect execution means changes the operation means to any of a plurality of aspects including a first aspect in which the ratio of the most advantageous state is low and a second aspect in which the ratio of the most advantageous state is high.
The display control unit displays the operation promotion image in any one of a plurality of modes including a first image mode in which the ratio of the most advantageous state is low and a second image mode in which the ratio of the most advantageous state is high, and the operation is performed. A common image display control means for displaying the operation promoting image of an aspect common to a plurality of aspects of the means,
The operation effect includes a vibration effect for vibrating the operation means,
When the operation means is operated, the vibration can be changed in a plurality of vibration modes, and the performance mode of the notification performance is changed according to the change of the vibration mode,
When the operation promotion image is displayed in the second image mode, the operation means is not changed to the second mode,
A gaming machine characterized by that.

Images