JP6713968B2 - Amusement machine - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine or a slot machine which performs variable display.

As a game machine, a game ball, which is a game medium, is launched into a game area by a launching device, and when a game ball wins a winning area such as a winning opening provided in the game area, a predetermined prize value is given to the player. There is one configured in. Further, a variable display means capable of variably displaying identification information (also referred to as "variation") is provided, and when the display result of the variable display of the identification information is the specific display result on the variable display means, a predetermined game value is given. There is one configured to give the player (so-called pachinko machine).

Also, after setting a predetermined number of bets on a predetermined game medium for one game, the player operates the start lever to start the variable display of the identification information by the variable display device, and the player changes each variable. By operating the stop button provided corresponding to the display device, the variable display of the identification information is stopped within the range of the predetermined maximum delay time from the operation timing, and the variable display of all variable display devices is performed. When a prize is generated according to the display result derived when the game is stopped, a predetermined game medium that is predetermined according to the prize is paid out, and when a specific prize is generated, the game state is given a predetermined game value. There is something that is configured to give to (the so-called slot machine).

The prize value is to pay out a prize ball or give a score or a prize according to the winning of the game ball in the prize area. Further, the game value means that the state of the variable winning ball device provided in the game area of the gaming machine when the specific display result is obtained is an advantageous state for the player who easily hits the ball, and To generate a right to be in an advantageous state, and to be in a state in which the conditions for paying out prize balls are easily established.

In the pachinko gaming machine, as a display result of the variable display of the special symbol (identification information) which is started on the variable display means based on the fact that the game ball has won at the start winning opening, a predetermined specific display mode is derived and displayed. When it is done, "big hit (advantageous state)" occurs. The derivation display is to stop and display the symbol. When a big hit occurs, for example, the big winning opening is opened a predetermined number of times, and a big hit game state where a hit ball is easy to win is entered. Then, in each opening period, when a predetermined number (for example, 10) of winning holes are won, the winning holes are closed. The number of times the special winning opening is opened is fixed to a predetermined number (for example, 16 rounds). It should be noted that the opening time (for example, 29 seconds) is determined for each opening, and the special winning opening is closed when the opening time elapses even if the number of winnings does not reach the predetermined number. Hereinafter, the opening period of each special winning opening may be referred to as a round.

In such a gaming machine, Cited Document 1 describes an automatic button function that performs the same processing as when the operation of the operating means is accepted triggered by a predetermined condition even when the player does not operate the operating means. ing.

JP, 2005-223522, A

However, in the invention described in Patent Document 1, the automatic button mode is set during non-execution of the variable display. Therefore, in order to set the automatic button mode, the game must be interrupted once. However, there is a risk that interest will be reduced.

Therefore, it is an object of the present invention to provide a gaming machine capable of preventing a decrease in interest.

(1) A gaming machine according to the present invention is a gaming machine that performs variable display, and includes a detection unit that can detect at least a first motion and a second motion, and a detectable detection unit (for example, a push button 120). , Setting means capable of setting the setting state relating to the effect to a first state (for example, a state in which the auto button function is set to be disabled) or a second state (for example, a state in which the auto button function is set to be valid) For example, the effect control microcomputer 100 executes steps S710 and S825) and a specific effect when the effect execution condition is satisfied (for example, the button notice effect A to C or the decided button effect, the push button 120 is pressed). Based on the fact that the operation is detected, a specific effect executing means (for example, effect control microcomputer 100) capable of executing a display for reducing the scale of the gauge display, displaying an advance notice display or a display of winning/disapproving display, etc. Steps S8144, S8153, S8174, and S8118 and S8133 are executed), and the specific effect executing unit executes the specific effect in the first state on the basis of the detection result of the detecting unit, that the effect executing condition is satisfied. On the other hand, in the second state, it is possible to execute the specific effect assuming that the effect execution condition is satisfied regardless of the detection result of the detection means (for example, when the auto button function is set to be effective, the push button 120 is set). Even if the operation of No. is not performed, the display of the notice display, the display of the success/failure display, the display for reducing the scale of the gauge display, etc. are performed.(Refer to FIGS. 36 to 37, 43 to 44, etc.), the setting means The setting can be changed from the first state to the second state based on the detection result of the detection means during the execution of the variable display (for example, the part for the production control microcomputer 100 to execute the processing of steps S7103 to S7104). It is characterized by
With such a configuration, it is possible to prevent a decrease in interest.

(2) In the gaming machine of (1) above, the setting means can change the setting from the second state to the first state based on the detection result of the detection means (for example, the effect control microcomputer 100 causes the setting control microcomputer 100 to execute step S71010). (Processing of S7111) may be performed.
With such a configuration, the setting state can be easily changed.

(3) In the gaming machine of (1) or (2) above, the detection means is a player's first action (for example, push operation of the push button 120 (single-shot operation)) and second action (for example, push button 120). And the setting means can change the setting from the second state to the first state based on the detection of the first motion by the detecting means, and the setting means can change the setting to the second state. It is possible to change the setting from the first state to the second state based on the detection of the motion (for example, the part where the production control microcomputer 100 executes the processing of steps S7110 to S7111 and S7103 to S7104). May be.
With such a configuration, the setting state can be easily changed.

(4) In the gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (3) above, a special effect (for example, a special effect based on the fact that the detecting means detects the motion during the special detection effective period without the notification prompting the player to perform the motion) , Back button advance notice effect), and the setting means does not change the setting from the second state to the first state even if the detecting means detects an operation in the special detection effective period (for example, Alternatively, the effect control microcomputer 100 may execute the process of step S7108).
With such a configuration, it is possible to prevent an unintended change of the setting state.

(5) In the gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (4) above, an effect setting capable of making an effect-related setting (for example, setting of a background image) based on an operation detected by the detecting means. Means (for example, the part for the effect control microcomputer 100 to execute the process of step S827), and the setting means changes from the second state to the first state even if the detecting means detects an operation for setting the effect. The setting may not be changed to the state (for example, the effect control microcomputer 100 may execute the process of step S7109).
With such a configuration, it is possible to prevent an unintended change of the setting state.

(6) In the gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (5) above, the specific effect execution means can execute a plurality of types of specific effects (for example, button notice effects A to C, a decided button effect, etc.). Therefore, the timing at which the effect execution condition is satisfied in the second state may be different depending on the type of the specific effect (see the timing of the operation satisfaction condition for each effect shown in FIG. 33B).
With such a configuration, the effect of production can be improved.

(7) In the gaming machine according to any of (1) to (6) above, the detection means includes an operation means (for example, a push button 120) operable by a player, and the operation means is operable ( For example, it is possible to vibrate), when performing a specific production based on the detection result of the operating means as the performance execution condition is established, and when performing the specific performance regardless of the detection result of the operation means Even when the production is executed, the operation mode is different (for example, the part where the production control microcomputer 100 executes steps S8144 to S8144A and S8153, see FIGS. 43(7) and 44(7)). Good.
With such a configuration, the effect of production can be improved.

(8) In the gaming machine according to any one of (1) to (7) above, the specific effect execution means determines that the effect execution condition is satisfied based on the fact that the operation is detected by the detection means during the detection effective period. And the setting unit does not change the setting from the first state to the second state even if the detection unit detects an operation during the detection effective period (for example, the effect control microcomputer 100 executes step S7102). Part).
With such a configuration, it is possible to prevent an unintended change of the setting state.

(9) In any of the above-mentioned gaming machines (1) to (8), a detection valid period display indicating that the detection by the detection means is a valid detection valid period (for example, "press the button shown in FIG. 43! , Etc. is provided, and at least a part of the detection effective period display is hidden by an effect (for example, character effect, fade-out effect, blackout effect, etc.). In some cases, the detection valid period may end after the period in which the detection valid period display is in the visually difficult state.
With such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the player from missing the fact that the detection valid period is in effect.

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 the block diagram which shows the circuit configuration example of the production control baseplate, the lamp driver baseplate and the audio output baseplate. It is a flow chart which shows the main processing which a CPU in a main board performs. It is a flowchart which shows a 4 ms timer interruption process. It is explanatory drawing which shows each random number. It is an explanatory view showing a big hit judgment table, a small hit judgment table, and a big hit type judgment table. It is the explanation drawing which shows one example of the contents of production control command. It is the explanation drawing which shows one example of the contents of production control command. It is a flowchart showing an example of a program of special symbol process processing. It is a flowchart showing an example of a program of special symbol process processing. It is a flow chart which shows starting opening switch passage processing. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of a storage buffer. It is a flow chart which shows special design normal processing. It is a flow chart which shows special design normal processing. It is a flow chart which shows change pattern setting processing. 7 is a flowchart showing a display result designation command transmission process. It is a flowchart showing a process during special symbol fluctuation. It is a flowchart showing a special symbol stop process. It is a flowchart showing a big hit ending process. It is a flow chart showing an example of a program of special symbol display control processing. It is the flowchart which shows the production control main processing which the production control CPU executes. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of a command receiving buffer. It is a flow chart which shows command analysis processing. It is the flowchart which shows production control process treatment. It is a flowchart which shows an automatic button setting process. It is a flow chart which shows change pattern command reception waiting processing. It is the flowchart which shows production design fluctuation start processing. It is the explanation drawing which shows one example of the stop design of production design. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of process data. It is a flow chart which shows notice production setting processing. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example of a button notice production determination table and a back button notice production determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example of the execution timing of each production|operation, and the operation condition satisfaction timing at the time of an automatic button effective. It is the flowchart which shows the production design fluctuation process. It is the flowchart which shows the production design fluctuation process. It is the flowchart which shows the production design fluctuation process. It is the flowchart which shows the production design fluctuation process. It is the flowchart which shows the production design fluctuation process. It is the flowchart which shows the production design fluctuation process. It is the flowchart which shows production design fluctuation stop processing. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example of a display mode in the case of setting the function of an auto button valid or invalid. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example of the display mode at the time of setting the function of an auto button and a background image from a setting menu screen. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example of the production|generation aspect of button advance notice production when the automatic continuous hitting by an auto button function is performed. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example of the production|generation aspect of the button notice production when the automatic continuous hit is performed by long press operation. It is the explanation drawing which shows the concrete example of the production aspect of button advance notice production C and decision button production. It is explanatory drawing which shows the comparative example of the automatic continuous hit by a long press operation and the automatic continuous hit by an auto button function. FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram for explaining operation detection timings when an operation is detected by automatic continuous hits by long-pressing operation. FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram for explaining operation detection timings when an operation is detected by automatic continuous hits by long-pressing operation. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the detection timing of operation in case the push button was already pressed at the time of the start of a button notice production. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example in case the accessory production and button notice production are performed at the same time.

Embodiment 1.
Hereinafter, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described 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 openably and closably mounted inside the outer frame. In addition, the pachinko gaming machine 1 has a frame-shaped glass door frame 2 which is provided in the game frame so as to be openable and closable. The game frame is a front frame (not shown) that is openably and closably installed 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 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 stored 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 parts 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.

The member forming the surplus ball receiving tray (lower plate) 4 is configured in a stick shape (bar shape) at a predetermined position on the front side of the lower plate body (for example, the central portion of the lower plate), for example, and is formed by a player. Is attached to the stick controller 122 which can be tilted in a plurality of directions (front, rear, left and right). It should be noted that the stick controller 122 has a predetermined operating finger (for example, an index finger) and a predetermined push/pull operation while the player holds the operating rod of the stick controller 122 with an operating hand (for example, the left hand). A trigger button 121 (see FIG. 3) capable of performing an instruction operation is provided, and a trigger sensor 125 (FIG. 3) is built in. Further, a tilt direction sensor unit 123 (see FIG. 3) for detecting a tilting operation with respect to the operating rod is provided inside the main body of the lower plate below the stick controller 122. Further, the stick controller 122 includes a vibrator motor 126 (see FIG. 3) for vibrating the stick controller 122.

In the member forming the hitting ball supply tray (upper tray) 3, for example, the player performs a predetermined instruction operation by a pressing operation at a predetermined position on the upper surface of the upper tray body (for example, above the stick controller 122). A possible push button 120 is provided. The push button 120 may be configured to be capable of mechanically, electrically, or electromagnetically detecting a predetermined instruction operation, such as a pressing operation by the player. A push sensor 124 (see FIG. 3) for detecting a player's operation performed on the push button 120 may be provided inside the main body of the upper plate at the installation position of the push button 120. In the configuration example shown in FIG. 1, the attachment positions of the push button 120 and the stick controller 122 have a vertical positional relationship in the central portion of the upper plate and the lower plate. On the other hand, the push button 120 and the stick controller 122 may be attached to the left or right side of the upper plate and the lower plate while maintaining the vertical positional relationship. Alternatively, the attachment positions of the push button 120 and the stick controller 122 may not have a vertical positional relationship but may have a horizontal positional relationship, for example.

Further, the push button 120 is provided with a push button LED 29. The push button LED 29 can emit light in a plurality of modes, and emits light in a predetermined mode when the auto button function is set to be effective, as described later.

In this embodiment, the push button 120 is provided integrally with the stick controller 122. Therefore, when the stick controller 122 vibrates, the push button 120 also vibrates at the same time. The configuration is not limited to such a configuration, and the stick controller 122 and the push button 120 may be separately provided.

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 display screen of the effect display device 9, there is an effect symbol display area for variably displaying the effect symbol in synchronization with the 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. In the effect symbol display area, for example, there is a symbol display area for variably displaying effect symbols for three decorations (for effect) of “left”, “middle”, and “right”. The symbol display areas include “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 fixed. 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 along 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 in the left and right middle symbols) are continued 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), swinging, scaling or deforming, or multiple symbols fluctuating in sync with the same symbol, or the positions of the displayed symbols are swapped. Then, the production 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 including 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.

In addition, in this embodiment, the case where variable display of the effect symbol is performed as the effect of the liquid crystal display on the effect display device 9 is shown, but the effect performed by the effect display device 9 is the one shown in this embodiment. Not limited to this, for example, an effect having a predetermined story property may be executed, and an effect may be executed in which the result of the story is displayed based on the jackpot determination and the determination result of the variation pattern. For example, a professional wrestling or soccer game, or a battle production in which an enemy or an ally character fights are performed, and if the jackpot is a jackpot, the game or battle is won. Good. Further, for example, instead of displaying the result of winning or losing, it is possible to execute an effect such that a predetermined story such as a story is developed in order.

In the upper right part of the display screen of the effect display device 9, there are provided fourth symbol display areas 9c and 9d for displaying a fourth symbol next to the effect symbol and a special symbol and a normal symbol described later. In this embodiment, the fourth symbol display area 9c for the first special symbol in which the variable display of the fourth symbol for the first special symbol is performed in synchronization with the variable display of the first special symbol described later, and the second A fourth symbol display area 9d for the second special symbol is provided in which the variable display of the fourth symbol for the second special symbol is performed in synchronization with the variable display of the special symbol.

In this embodiment, the variable display of the effect symbol is executed in synchronization with the variable display of the special symbol (however, accurately, the variable display of the effect symbol varies on the effect control microcomputer 100 side. It is performed by measuring the variation time recognized based on the pattern command.), when performing the effect using the effect display device 9, for example, the effect contents including the variable display of the effect pattern disappears from the screen for a moment. There are a variety of production modes, such as productions and productions in which a movable object shields all or part of the screen. Therefore, even when looking at the display screen on the effect display device 9, it may be difficult to recognize whether or not the display is currently in a variable display. Therefore, in this embodiment, by performing a variable display of the fourth symbol on a part of the display screen of the effect display device 9, by confirming the state of the fourth symbol, is it currently in the variable display state? Whether or not it can be surely recognized. Note that the fourth symbol is always displayed in a variable manner with a constant motion, and is not disappeared from the screen or shielded by a shield, so that it can always be visually recognized.

The fourth symbol for the first special symbol and the fourth symbol for the second special symbol may be collectively referred to as the fourth symbol, and the fourth symbol display area 9c and the second special symbol for the first special symbol. The fourth symbol display area 9d for symbols may be collectively referred to as the fourth symbol display area.

The variation (variable display) of the fourth symbol is realized by continuing to turn on and off the fourth symbol display areas 9c and 9d in a predetermined display color (for example, blue) at regular time intervals. .. The variable display of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display 8a and the variable display of the fourth symbol for the first special symbol in the fourth symbol display area 9c for the first special symbol are synchronized. The variable display of the second special symbol in the second special symbol display 8b and the variable display of the fourth symbol for the second special symbol in the fourth symbol display area 9d for the second special symbol are synchronized. The synchronization means that the start time and the end time of the variable display are the same and the variable display period is the same.

Further, when the big hit symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a, a display color (a display color different from the deviant. For example, deviant) of the big symbol in the fourth symbol display area 9c for the first special symbol. Sometimes it is displayed in blue whereas it is displayed in red when it is a big hit.The display color may be different depending on the type of big hit (whether it is a probability variation big hit or a normal big hit). , The display color may be different depending on whether or not it is a big hit (eg, a big hit other than a sudden probability change big hit) that can expect to win a game ball to the big prize hole, and it can be used for a plurality of big hits with different round numbers. When it is controllable, the display color may be changed according to the number of rounds to be continued in the big hit game, and even if the number of rounds of each big hit is the same as in this embodiment, For example, the opening time of the special winning opening per round is short (for example, 1 second), and the opening time of the special winning opening per round is long and the opening of the special winning opening cannot be expected. (For example, 30 seconds), if there is a jackpot that can be expected to win a game ball into the big winning opening, depending on whether or not a game ball to the big winning opening can be expected substantially. The display colors may be different, and, for example, due to the number of times of opening the special winning opening per round being different, there is a big hit that can be expected to win a gaming ball to the big winning opening and a big hit that cannot be expected. Also in this case, the display color may be changed depending on whether or not the winning of the game ball to the special winning opening can be expected.

Further, when the big hit symbol is stopped and displayed on the second special symbol display 8b, a display color (a display color different from the deviant. For example, deviant) is displayed in the fourth symbol display area 9d for the second special symbol. Sometimes it is displayed in blue whereas it is displayed in red when it is a big hit.The display color may be different depending on the type of big hit (whether it is a probability variation big hit or a normal big hit). , The display color may be different depending on whether or not it is a big hit (eg, a big hit other than a sudden probability change big hit) that can expect to win a game ball to the big prize hole, and it can be used for a plurality of big hits with different round numbers. When it is controllable, the display color may be changed according to the number of rounds to be continued in the big hit game, and even if the number of rounds of each big hit is the same as in this embodiment, For example, the opening time of the special winning opening per round is short (for example, 1 second), and the opening time of the special winning opening per round is long and the opening of the special winning opening cannot be expected. (For example, 30 seconds), if there is a jackpot that can be expected to win a game ball into the big winning opening, depending on whether or not a game ball to the big winning opening can be expected substantially. The display colors may be different, and, for example, due to the number of times of opening the special winning opening per round being different, there is a big hit that can be expected to win a gaming ball to the big winning opening and a big hit that cannot be expected. Also in this case, the display color may be changed depending on whether or not the winning of the game ball to the special winning opening can be expected.

The display color when the fourth symbol display areas 9c and 9d are turned off is a display color different from the background image (for example, black) in order to prevent disappearance due to being assimilated to the background image when turned off. Is desirable.

In addition, in this embodiment, the case where the fourth symbol display area is provided in a part of the display screen of the effect display device 9 is shown. However, apart from the effect display device 9, a light emitting body such as a lamp or an LED is used. You may make it implement|achieve the 4th symbol display area. In this case, for example, the variation (variable display) of the fourth symbol may be realized by continuing the state where the two LEDs are alternately turned on, and any one of the two LEDs is stopped. It may be possible to indicate whether or not the big hit symbol is stopped and displayed depending on whether it is displayed.

In addition, in this embodiment, the case where the fourth special symbol display areas 9c and 9d are provided in association with the first special symbol and the second special symbol, respectively, is shown, but the first special symbol and the second special symbol are shown. A fourth symbol display area common to the symbols may be provided on a part of the display screen of the effect display device 9. Moreover, you may make it implement|achieve the 4th symbol display area common to a 1st special symbol and a 2nd special symbol using a light-emitting body, such as a lamp and LED. In this case, when the variable display of the fourth symbol is executed in synchronization with the variable display of the first special symbol, and when the variable display of the fourth symbol is executed in synchronization with the variable display of the second special symbol, For example, the variable display of the fourth symbol may be distinguished and executed by performing a display in which the display of different display colors is repeatedly turned on and off at regular time intervals. In addition, when the variable display of the fourth symbol is executed in synchronization with the variable display of the first special symbol, and when the variable display of the fourth symbol is executed in synchronization with the variable display of the second special symbol, for example, Alternatively, the variable display of the fourth symbol may be distinguished and executed by performing display such that lighting and extinction are repeated at different time intervals. Further, for example, when the stop symbol corresponding to the variable display of the first special symbol is derived and displayed, and when the stop symbol corresponding to the variable display of the second special symbol is derived and displayed, it is the same big hit symbol. Alternatively, the stop symbols in different modes may be stopped and displayed.

To the right of the effect display device 9, a first special symbol display (first variable display portion) 8a that variably displays 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 numbers 0-9. That is, the first special symbol display device 8a is configured to variably display numbers (or symbols) from 0 to 9. Further, on the right side of the effect display device 9 (on the right side of the first special symbol display device 8a), the second special symbol display device (second variable display portion) 8b that variably displays the second special symbol as the identification information. Is also 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, for example, a rectangular shape. 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 each be configured to variably display numbers (or two-digit symbols) of 00 to 99, for example.

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). There is something to do.

In addition, in this embodiment, although the case where two special symbol display devices 8a and 8b are provided is shown, the gaming machine may be provided with 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 passing 14 (including winning), the variable display start condition (for example, when the number of reserved 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 the passage of the game ball means that the game ball has passed through a predetermined winning area, such as a winning opening and a gate, and the concept includes that the gaming ball has entered (wins) the winning opening. Is. Derivative display of the display result means that the symbol (an example of identification information) is finally stopped and displayed.

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 ball can be won in the second starting winning opening 14 (starting winning is easy), which is advantageous for the player. When the variable winning ball device 15 is in the open state, the game balls are more likely to be won in the second starting winning opening 14 than in the first starting winning opening 13. Also, 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 the closed state, it may be difficult to win the prize, but it may be possible to win the prize (that is, the game ball is hard to win).

Hereinafter, the first starting 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 an open state, the game ball heading for the variable winning ball device 15 is extremely easy to win the second starting winning port 14. The first start winning opening 13 is provided directly below the effect display device 9, but the gap between the lower end of the effect display device 9 and the first starting winning opening 13 is further narrowed, or the first start winning opening 13 is provided. The nails are densely arranged around 13 and the nail arrangement around the first starting winning opening 13 makes it difficult to guide the game ball to the first starting winning opening 13, and the winning rate of the second starting winning opening 14 is increased. You may make it higher than the winning rate of the 1st starting winning a prize mouth 13.

In addition, in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, the variable winning ball device 15 that opens and closes only the second starting winning opening 14 is provided, but the first starting winning opening 13 and the second winning opening 13 are provided. A variable winning ball device that opens and closes any of the starting winning openings 14 may be provided.

Above the second special symbol display device 8b, the second special symbol reserved memory display device 18b consisting 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. It is provided. The second special symbol hold storage indicator 18b increases the number of indicators to be turned on every 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.

Further, above the second special symbol hold storage display 18b, the number of effective winning balls that have entered the first start winning opening 13, that is, the first hold storage number (hold storage is also referred to as start memory or start prize storage. ) Is provided with a first special symbol reservation storage display 18a consisting of four displays. 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.

In addition, in the lower part of the display screen of the effect display device 9, a total reserved storage display unit 18c is provided that displays the total number (total reserved storage number) that is the total of the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory number. ing. In this embodiment, since the total pending storage display section 18c for displaying the total number is provided in this way, it is easy to grasp the total number of satisfied execution conditions for which the variable display start condition is not satisfied. be able to. In addition, you may make it provide the 1st reservation storage display part which displays the 1st reservation storage number, and the 2nd reservation storage display part which displays the 2nd reservation storage number.

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 8b and the variable display of the effect symbol on the effect display device 9 are synchronized. Further, when the big hit symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display device 8a, and when the big hit symbol is stopped and displayed on the second special symbol display device 8b, a production symbol that reminds the big hit on the effect display device 9 The combination of is stopped and displayed.

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

On the left side of the effect display device 9, a normal symbol display device 10 that variably displays normal symbols is provided. In this embodiment, the normal symbol display device 10 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 normal symbol display device 10 is configured to variably display numbers (or symbols) from 0 to 9. Further, the small-sized display is formed, for example, in a rectangular shape. In addition, the normal symbol display device 10 may be configured to variably display numbers (or two-digit symbols) of 00 to 99, for example. Further, the normal symbol display device 10 is not limited to a 7-segment LED, and for example, a display device that can display a predetermined symbol display (for example, a decoration lamp that can alternately display “○” and “x”). It may be composed of.

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. When the stop symbol on the normal symbol display 10 is a predetermined symbol (hit symbol. For example, symbol "7"), 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 (a state where the gaming ball can be won in the second starting winning port 14) when the stop symbol of the normal symbol is a winning symbol. Changes to. In the vicinity of the normal symbol display device 10, a normal symbol hold 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 is provided. 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 symbol variation time is shortened, although it is not the probability variation state, the opening time and the number of times of opening the variable winning ball device 15 are increased.

At the bottom of the game board 6, there is an outlet 26 into which hit balls that have not been won are taken. Further, four speakers 27 for producing a sound effect or a sound as a predetermined sound output are provided on the upper left and right sides and the lower 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 frame LED 28 can emit light in a plurality of modes. In this embodiment, the frame LED 28 can emit white, blue, green and red light.

The game machine drives a drive motor in response to the player operating the ball operation handle 5 and uses the rotational force of the drive motor to shoot a game ball to the game area 7 (not shown). ) Is provided. The game ball shot from the hitting ball launching device enters the game area 7 through the hit ball rail formed in a circular shape so as to surround the game area 7, and then comes down 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, the first That 1 start condition is satisfied), the variable display (variation) of the first special symbol is started on the first special symbol display 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. Unless the variable display of the second special symbol can 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.

In this embodiment, in the case of a probability variation big hit, the game state shifts to a high-probability state (probability variation state), and the game ball becomes easy to start winning (that is, special symbol display devices 8a, 8b and effect). A transition is made to a high base state which is a gaming state controlled so that the execution condition of the variable display on the display device 9 is easily established (in this embodiment, a transition is made to a time saving state). Also, when the gaming state is shifted to the time saving state, the state is shifted to the high base state. In the high base state, for example, 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 where the high base state is not set. It will be easier to win the start prize.

It should be noted that instead of extending the time when the variable winning ball device 15 is in the open state (also referred to as the open extension state), it shifts to the normal symbol probability changing state in which the probability that the stop symbol in the normal symbol display device 10 becomes a winning symbol is increased. Therefore, the high base state may be set. When the stop symbol in the normal symbol display device 10 becomes a predetermined symbol (hit symbol), the variable winning ball device 15 is opened for a predetermined number of times and for a predetermined time. In this case, by controlling the transition to the normal symbol probability changing state, the probability that the stop symbol in the normal symbol display 10 will be a winning symbol is increased, and the frequency of the variable winning ball device 15 being in the open state is increased. Therefore, if the state shifts to the normal symbol probability changing state, the opening time and the number of times of opening the variable winning ball device 15 are increased, and the starting winning prize is easily achieved (high base state). That is, the opening time and the number of times of opening the variable winning ball device 15 are increased when the stop symbol of the normal symbol is a winning symbol or the stop symbol of the special symbol is a probability variation symbol, which is disadvantageous to the player. The state changes to an advantageous state (a state in which it is easy to start winning). In addition, increasing the number of times of opening is a concept including changing from a closed state to an open state.

Further, by shifting to the normal symbol time saving state in which the variation time (variable display period) of the normal symbol on the normal symbol display 10 is shortened, the high base state may be shifted. In the normal symbol time saving state, since the variation time of the normal symbol is shortened, the frequency of the variation of the normal symbol is increased, and as a result, the frequency of winning the normal symbol is increased. Therefore, as the frequency of winning the normal symbol increases, the frequency of the variable winning ball device 15 becomes high, and the starting winning easily occurs (high base state).

Also, by changing to a time saving state in which the variation time (variable display period) of special symbols and effect symbols is shortened, the variation time of special symbols and effect symbols is shortened, so the variation of special symbols and effect symbols starts. It is possible to reduce a situation in which an invalid starting winning occurs due to a high frequency of playing (in other words, the holding memory is quickly consumed). Therefore, an effective starting winning is likely to occur, and as a result, the possibility of playing a big hit game is increased.

Furthermore, by shifting to all the states shown above (open extension state, normal symbol probability changing state, normal symbol time saving state and special symbol time saving state), it becomes easier to start winning (shift to high base state) May be. Also, by shifting to any one of the above states (open extension state, normal symbol probability changing state, normal symbol time saving state and special symbol time saving state), it becomes easier to start winning (high base State). In addition, by shifting to only one of the above-mentioned states (open extension state, normal symbol probability changing state, normal symbol time saving state and special symbol time saving state), it is easy to start winning (high. It may be set to the base state).

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 is 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. In the one-chip microcomputer, at least the RAM 56 as well as the CPU 56 may be incorporated, and the ROM 54 may be external or incorporated. 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).

Further, the RAM 55 is a backup RAM as a non-volatile storage means, a part or all of which is backed up by a backup power supply created on a power supply board. That is, even if the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, a part or all of the content of the RAM 55 is 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 according to the game state, that is, the control state of the game control means (special symbol process flag, probability variation flag, etc.) and 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, data according to the control state and data indicating the number of unpaid prize balls are defined as 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.

In the game control microcomputer 560, the CPU 56 executes control according to the program stored in the ROM 54, and hence 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 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, and the start occurs at random timing. Based on that the time of winning is the time of reading (extracting) numerical data, the numerical data to be read has a random number generating function.

The random number circuit 503 selects and sets the update range of the numerical data (the initial value selection setting function and the upper limit selection setting function), the numerical data update rule selection setting function, and the numerical data update rule selection. 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 the 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.

Further, an input driver circuit 58 for giving a detection signal from the gate switch 32a, the first starting port switch 13a, the second starting port switch 14a and the count switch 23 to the game controlling microcomputer 560 is also mounted on the main board 31. Also, the output circuit 59 for driving the solenoid 16 for opening/closing the variable winning ball device 15 and the solenoid 21 for opening/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 displays the special symbol variably, the normal symbol display device 10 which variably displays the normal symbol, the first special symbol reserved storage Display control of the display 18a, the second special symbol reservation storage display 18b and the normal symbol reservation storage display 41 is performed.

An information output circuit 64 for outputting 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 contents from the game control microcomputer 560 via the relay board 77. The effect control command is received, and display control of the effect display device 9 that variably displays effect symbols is performed.

Further, the effect control means mounted on the effect control board 80 controls the display of the frame LED 28 provided on the frame side via the lamp driver board 35, and the speaker 27 via the audio output board 70. Control the sound output from.

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 sound output board 70. In the example shown in FIG. 3, the lamp driver board 35 and the audio 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 that stores information regarding production such as production symbol 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 ( In response 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, a 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 to be 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 in the direction from the inside of the effect control board 80 to the relay board 77). It is also a unidirectional circuit as a regulation means.

As signal direction restricting means for allowing the signal input from the main board 31 to pass through to the relay board 77 only in the direction toward the effect control board 80 (not allowing the signal to pass in the direction from the effect control board 80 to the relay board 77). The unidirectional circuit 74 is mounted. As the unidirectional circuit, for example, a diode or a transistor is used. 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 (game control microcomputer 560 side). The output port 571 is a part of the I/O port unit 57 shown in FIG. Further, a signal driver circuit which 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 an operation detection signal, which is an information signal indicating that the player has operated the trigger button 121 of the stick controller 122, from the trigger sensor 125 via the input port 106. Further, the effect control CPU 101 inputs an operation detection signal as an information signal indicating that the player's operation on the push button 120 has been detected, from the push sensor 124 via the input port 106. In addition, the effect control CPU 101 inputs an operation detection signal, which is an information signal indicating that a player's operation on the operation stick of the stick controller 122 has been detected, from the tilt direction sensor unit 123 via the input port 106. .. Further, the effect control CPU 101 causes the stick controller 122 to vibrate by outputting a drive signal to the vibrator motor 126 via the output port 105.

Further, the effect control CPU 101 outputs a signal for driving the LED to the lamp driver board 35 via the output port 105. Further, the effect control CPU 101 outputs the 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 such as the frame LED 28 based on a signal for driving the LED.

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 according 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 a main process 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 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, the 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 in the ON state, check whether the data protection processing of the backup RAM area (for example, processing at the time of power supply stop such as addition of parity data) is performed when the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped. Yes (step S7). When it is confirmed 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 by, for example, the state of the backup flag set in the backup RAM area during the power supply stop process.

After confirming that the power supply stop process 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 data in the backup RAM area should have been saved, so the check result (comparison result) becomes normal (match). 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, initialization data is set for the work area that may be initialized. 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 gaming 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 portion 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 to the effect control board 80 a display result designation command designating a display result stored in the backup RAM (normal big hit, probability variation big hit, sudden variation big hit, small hit or deviant). S44). Then, the process proceeds to step S14. In step S44, the CPU 56 also transmits the first symbol variation designation command and the second symbol variation designation command (see FIG. 8) when the value of the special symbol pointer described later is also stored in the backup RAM. You may do so. In this case, the production control microcomputer 100 may restart the variable display of the fourth symbol based on the reception of the first symbol variation designation command or the second symbol variation designation command.

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. 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 sending the display result designation command without fail when 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 the display result designation command is transmitted. It may be determined that the display state designation command is not transmitted 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 outage during 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, it is checked whether or not the data in the backup RAM area is saved by using both the backup flag and the check data, 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, data of the count value of the counter for generating the random number for normal symbol determination) is initialized to 0, but any value or a predetermined value. It may be initialized to. Further, it is also possible to leave the predetermined data (for example, the data of the count value of the counter for generating the normal symbol per determination random number) 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 symbol per determination random number counter, 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 displays a screen for informing that the control of the gaming machine has been initialized, that is, performs 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, for example, executes a process in accordance with the random number circuit setting program to make settings for causing the random number circuit 503 to update the value of the random R.

Then, in step S15, the CPU 56 sets the register of the CTC incorporated in the game control microcomputer 560 so that a timer interrupt is taken periodically at predetermined time intervals (for example, 4 ms). That is, a value corresponding to, for example, 4 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 4 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 for-use random number updating process is a process for 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 number. In this embodiment, the random number for the initial value, 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 to do, or the process of sending a command signal to control other microcomputers, also referred to as the game device control process), the count value of the random number per ordinary symbol is one round (ordinary random number for per symbol determination) If the number of steps 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. Also, when the display result of the special symbol is a big hit symbol, the reach effect is always executed (however, in the case of the sudden probability jackpot, the reach does not occur and the sudden probability jackpot symbol (eg, "135") is not reached. May be displayed as a stop). When the display result of the special symbol is not a big hit symbol, the game control microcomputer 560 determines whether or not the reach effect is executed by performing a lottery for determining the variation pattern type and the variation pattern using random numbers. To do. However, it is the effect control microcomputer 100 that actually executes the reach effect 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 performed 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 saving necessary data in the backup RAM area. Then, the detection signals of the gate switch 32a, the first starting port switch 13a, 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 process: step S21). ).

Next, the CPU 56 is the first special symbol display device 8a, the second special symbol display device 8b, the normal symbol display device 10, the first special symbol reserved memory display device 18a, the second special symbol reserved memory display device 18b, the normal symbol. A display control process for controlling the display of the pending storage display 41 is executed (step S22). For the first special symbol display device 8a, the second special symbol display device 8b and the normal symbol display device 10, a drive signal is output to each display device according to the contents of the output buffer set in steps S32 and S33. Execute control.

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 update process, display random number update process: steps S24 and S25).

Further, the CPU 56 performs special symbol process processing (step S26). 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 are subjected to corresponding processing. 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 start port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a and the count switch 23 (step S30). Specifically, in accordance with the 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 of 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 displaying the effect 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 for the fluctuation of the normal symbol is set, the fluctuation speed of the normal symbol is switched between display states ("○" 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 is terminated.

By the above control, in this embodiment, the game control process is activated every 4 ms. The game control process corresponds to the process of steps S21 to S33 (excluding step S29) in the timer interrupt process. In addition, in this embodiment, the game control process is executed in 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.

When the first special symbol display device 8a or the second special symbol display device 8b and the effect display device 9 display the shift symbol in a stopped state, the variable display state of the effect symbol is changed after the variable display of the effect symbol is started. A predetermined combination of effect symbols that does not reach 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 "normally off") in the case where the variable display result is a deviating symbol.

When the deviation symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display device 8a or the second special symbol display device 8b and the effect display device 9, the variable display state of the effect symbol is changed after the variable display of the effect symbol is started. The reach effect may be executed after the reach state is reached, and a predetermined combination of effect symbols that does not become the big hit symbol 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, when the big hit symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display device 8a or the second special symbol display device 8b, the reach effect is executed after the variable display state of the effect symbol becomes the reach state. Finally, in the symbol display areas 9L, 9C, 9R of "left", "middle", and "right" on the effect display device 9, the effect symbols are stopped and displayed together (however, in the case of sudden probability big hit). In some cases, sudden change jackpot pattern (for example, "135") may be stopped and displayed without reaching.

When "5", which is a small hit, is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display device 8a or the second special symbol display device 8b, in the effect display device 9, the variable display mode of the effect symbol is "a sudden sudden change big hit". After the variable display of the effect symbol is performed as in the case of, the predetermined small hit symbol (the same symbol as the sudden probability large hit symbol. For example, "135") may be stopped and displayed. The display effect on the effect display device 9 corresponding to the small hit symbol "5" being stopped and displayed on the first special symbol indicator 8a or the second special symbol indicator 8b is referred to as the "small hit" variable display mode. ..

Here, the small hit is a hit that is allowed up to the number of times of opening the special winning opening smaller than that of the big hit (in this embodiment, the opening for 0.1 seconds is twice). When the small hit game is over, the game state does not change. That is, there is no transition from the probability changing state to the normal state or from the normal state to the probability changing state. Further, the sudden probability big hit is allowed up to a small number of times the big winning opening is opened in the big hit game state (in this embodiment, 0.1 second is opened twice), but the opening time of the big winning opening is extremely large. It is a short jackpot, and it is a jackpot that shifts the game state after the big hit game to the probability variation state (that is, by doing so, it looks to the player as if it suddenly changed to the probability variation state. Is). That is, in this embodiment, the sudden winning big hit and the small hit have the same opening pattern of the special winning opening. By controlling in this way, when the special winning opening is opened for 0.1 second twice, it is impossible to recognize whether it is a sudden change big hit or a small hit, so a high probability state for the player. (Probably changed state) can be expected, and the enjoyment of the game can be improved.

FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing each random number. Each random number is used as follows.
(1) Random 1 (MR1): Determines the type of big hit (normal big hit, probability variation big hit, sudden probability variation big hit described later) (for big hit type determination)
(2) Random 2 (MR2): Determines the type (type) of variation pattern (for determination of variation pattern type)
(3) Random 3 (MR3): Determine a variation pattern (variation time) (for variation pattern determination)
(4) Random 4 (MR4): Determine whether or not to generate a hit based on a normal symbol (for normal symbol hit determination)
(5) Random 5 (MR5): Determine the initial value of random 4 (for determining random 4 initial value)

In this embodiment, the variation pattern is determined by first using the variation pattern type determination random number (random 2) to determine the variation pattern type and using the variation pattern determination random number (random 3). It is determined to be one of the fluctuation patterns included in the pattern type. As such, in this embodiment, the variation pattern is determined by the two-stage lottery process.

The variation pattern type is a group of a plurality of variation patterns grouped according to the characteristics of the variation mode. For example, a plurality of variation patterns are grouped by the type of reach, and a variation pattern type including a variation pattern with normal reach, a variation pattern type including a variation pattern with super reach A, and a variation pattern with super reach B are included. It may be divided into fluctuation pattern types. Further, for example, a plurality of variation patterns are grouped by the number of times of re-variation of pseudo-relation, and a variation pattern type including a variation pattern without pseudo-reaction, a variation pattern type including one variation pattern, It may be divided into a fluctuation pattern type including a fluctuation pattern of two fluctuations and a fluctuation pattern type including a fluctuation pattern of three fluctuations again. Further, for example, a plurality of variation patterns may be grouped according to the presence/absence of a specific effect such as a pseudo-relation or a sliding effect.

In step S23 in the game control process shown in FIG. 5, the game control microcomputer 560 is a counter for generating the random number for jackpot type determination of (1) and the random number for normal symbol determination of (4). Count up (add 1). That is, those are the judgment random numbers, and the other random numbers are the display random numbers (random 2, random 3) or the initial value random numbers (random 5). 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 the 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. As the big hit determination random number, a software random number may be used instead of a hardware random number.

FIG. 7A is an explanatory diagram showing a jackpot 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 the normal state and a time-shortened state (that is, a gaming state that is not the sure variation state) and a probability variation time jackpot determination table used in the probability variation 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.

7B and 7C are explanatory diagrams showing the small hit determination table. The small hitting determination table is a collection of data stored in the ROM 54, and is a table in which a small hitting determination value to be compared with the random R is set. The small hit determination table, the small hit determination table (for the first special symbol) used when performing the variable display of the first special symbol, and the small hit determination table used when performing the variable display of the second special symbol There is (for the second special symbol). In the small hit determination table (for the first special symbol), each numerical value described in FIG. 7(B) is set, and in the small hit determination table (for the second special symbol), FIG. 7(C). Each listed numerical value is set. Further, the numerical values described in FIGS. 7B and 7C are the small hit determination values.

The small hit may be determined only when the variable display of the first special symbol is performed, and the small hit may not be provided when the variable display of the second special symbol is performed. In this case, the small hit determination table for the second special symbol shown in FIG. 7C may not be provided. In this embodiment, the variable display of the second special symbol is mainly executed when the game state is shifted to the probability change state. Even if the gaming state is transitioned to the probability variation state, a small hit occurs so that if the configuration is made to inspire whether or not the probability variation will occur, the current gaming state is the probability variation state. On the contrary, it makes the player feel annoyed. Therefore, if it is configured such that a small hit does not occur during the variable display of the second special symbol, a small hit is less likely to occur when the game state is a positive change state, and a stirrer effect against an unexpected change is not performed. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a situation in which the player feels troublesome.

The CPU 56 extracts the count value of the random number circuit 503 at a predetermined time and sets 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 match, it is decided to make a jackpot (normal jackpot, probability variation jackpot, sudden probability variation jackpot, which will be described later) for the special symbol. Further, when the big hit determination random number value matches any of the small hit determination values shown in FIGS. 7B and 7C, it is determined to make a small hit for the special symbol. The “probability” shown in FIG. 7A indicates the probability (ratio) of a big hit. Further, the “probability” shown in FIGS. 7(B) and 7(C) indicates the probability (ratio) of a small hit. Also, to determine whether to make a big hit, it is to make a decision to move to the big hit gaming state, the stop symbol in the first special symbol display device 8a or the second special symbol display device 8b It also means deciding whether or not to make a jackpot design. Also, to determine whether to make a small hit, it is to determine whether to shift to the small hit game state, stop in the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b It is also to decide whether or not to make the symbol a small hit symbol.

In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 7B and 7C, when the small hit determination table (for the first special symbol) is used, the small hit is determined at a rate of 1/300. On the other hand, when the small hit determination table (second special symbol) is used, the case where the small hit is determined at a rate of 1/3000 will be described. Therefore, in this embodiment, when the start winning a prize is given to the first starting winning opening 13 and the variable display of the first special symbol is executed, the starting winning is given to the second starting winning a prize opening 14 of the second special symbol. Compared to the case where the variable display is executed, the percentage of the “small hit” is determined.

FIGS. 7D and 7E are explanatory diagrams showing the jackpot type determination tables 131a and 131b stored in the ROM 54. Of these, FIG. 7(D) determines the jackpot type by using the pending storage based on the fact that the game ball has won the first starting winning opening 13 (that is, when the variable display of the first special symbol is performed). It is a jackpot type determination table (for the first special symbol) 131a in the case. Further, FIG. 7(E) is a case where the jackpot type is determined by using the pending storage based on the fact that the game ball has won the second starting winning opening 14 (that is, when the variable display of the second special symbol is performed). Is a big hit type determination table (for the second special symbol) 131b.

The jackpot type determination tables 131a, 131b, when it is determined that the variable display result is a jackpot pattern, based on the random number for determining the jackpot type (random 1), the jackpot type is "normal jackpot", " It is a table that is referred to in order to determine one of the "probability variation jackpot" and the "sudden variation jackpot". In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 7D and 7E, five determination values are assigned to the “suddenly probable variation big hit” in the big hit type judgment table 131a (40 minutes). 5 is determined to be a sudden probability big hit), the jackpot type determination table 131b is assigned one determination value for "sudden probability big hit" (ratio 1/40). Suddenly decided as a sudden change jackpot in)) Explain the case. Therefore, in this embodiment, when the start winning a prize is given to the first starting winning opening 13 and the variable display of the first special symbol is executed, the starting winning is given to the second starting winning a prize opening 14 of the second special symbol. Compared with the case where the variable display is executed, the rate of being determined as “a sudden sudden big hit” is high. In addition, "sudden probability big hit" is distributed only to the jackpot type determination table 131a for the first special symbol, and "sudden probability big hit" is not distributed to the jackpot type determination table 131b for the second special symbol (that is, , The first special symbol may be determined to be "a sudden sudden big hit" only when the variable display is performed).

In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 7(D) and (E), a sudden certainty big hit as the first specific game state in which a predetermined amount of game value is given and an amount larger than the game value. There is a case where it is decided to be a normal big hit or a probability variation big hit of 15 rounds as the second specific game state which gives a game value, and the first specific game state is at a high rate when the variable display of the first special symbol is executed. Although the case of deciding to set is shown, the game value to be given is not limited to the number of rounds shown in this embodiment. For example, as compared with the first specific game state, the second specific game state in which the permissible amount of the winning number (count number) of game balls to the big winning opening per round is increased as the game value is determined. Good. Further, for example, as compared with the first specific game state, the second specific game state in which the opening time of the special winning opening per one time during the big hit is extended may be determined as the game value. Further, for example, even in the case of the same 15 round big hit, the first specific game state in which the special winning opening is opened once per round and the second specific game state in which the special winning opening is opened plural times per round It is possible to prepare and increase the game value of the second specific game state by substantially increasing the number of times the special winning opening is opened. In this case, for example, when the special winning opening is opened 15 times in either of the first specific game state or the second specific game state (in this case, all 15 rounds in the case of the first specific game state) May be finished, and in the case of the second specific game state, an undigested round remains), and an effect may be executed in a manner that fuels whether or not the big hit continues. Then, in the case of the first specific game state, since all 15 rounds have been internally ended, the jackpot game is ended, and in the case of the second specific game state, internally undigested rounds remain. Therefore, the big hit game may be continued (an effect such that the opening of the special winning opening is additionally started by a bonus after finishing the big hit of opening 15 times).

In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 7D and 7E, the types of big hits include "normal big hits", "probably odd big hits" and "suddenly sudden big hits". In this embodiment, the number of rounds executed in the big hit game is two types, 15 rounds and 2 rounds, but the number of rounds executed in the big hit game is shown in this embodiment. Not limited to For example, a 10R certainty variation jackpot for controlling a 10-round jackpot game, a 7R certainty variation jackpot for controlling a seven-round jackpot game, and a 5R certainty variation jackpot for controlling a five-round jackpot game may be provided. In addition, in this embodiment, there are three types of big hit types, namely, “normal big hit”, “probability change big hit” and “sudden probability change big hit”, but the number is not limited to three, and for example, four or more kinds. A jackpot type may be provided. On the contrary, the number of types of big hits may be less than three, and for example, only two types of big hits may be provided.

The "normal big hit" is a big hit that is controlled to a big hit game state of 15 rounds and is shifted to only a time saving state after the end of the big hit game state (see step S167 described later). After shifting to the time saving state, when the variable display is ended a predetermined number of times (100 times in this embodiment), the time saving state is ended (see steps S168, S137 to S140). Even before the variable display is finished a predetermined number of times, the time saving state is finished even when the next big hit occurs (see step S132).

The "probable variation jackpot" is a jackpot which is controlled to a jackpot gaming state for 15 rounds and is shifted to the probability variation state after the jackpot gaming state is completed (in this embodiment, the jackpot is also shifted to the probability variation state and also in the time saving state. (See steps S169 and S170 described later). Then, the probability variation state and the time saving state continue until the next big hit occurs (see step S132).

Further, the "sudden probability big hit" is allowed up to the number of times of opening the special winning opening is smaller than that of "normal big hit" or "probability big hit" (in this embodiment, opening for 0.1 seconds is twice). It is a big hit. That is, in the case of "a sudden sudden big hit", the big hit game state of two rounds is controlled. In addition, in "normal big hit" and "probable odds big hit", the opening time of the big winning opening per round is as long as 29 seconds, whereas in "sudden positive big hit", the opening time of the big winning opening per round It is extremely short at 0.1 seconds, and it is almost impossible to expect a game ball to win the big winning opening during a big hit game. Then, in this embodiment, after the sudden probability big hit game state is suddenly shifted to the probability variation state (in this embodiment, the probability variation state is also shifted to the time saving state. Step S169, which will be described later). See S170). Then, the probability variation state and the time saving state continue until the next big hit occurs (see step S132).

The mode of sudden probability big hit is not limited to that shown in this embodiment. For example, the number of times of opening the special winning opening may be set to 15 times (15 rounds), which is the same as in the case of a normal big hit or a sudden probability variation big hit, and only the opening time of the special winning opening may be set to 0.1 seconds, which is extremely short.

As described above, in the present embodiment, even when a "small hit" occurs, the special winning opening is opened twice for 0.1 seconds each, and a big hit game state due to "a sudden probability big hit" is achieved. Similar control is performed. Then, in the case of "small hit", the gaming state does not change after the opening of the special winning opening twice, and the gaming state before the "small hit" is maintained. By doing so, it is possible to make it impossible to recognize whether it is a "sudden change big hit" or a "small hit" and to improve the enjoyment of the game. In addition, when it is configured such that all the types of big hits are the probability varying big hits, the small hits may not be provided. In addition, when the big hit types are all probability varying big hits, if a small hit is provided, a sudden probability big hit without transitioning to a probability changing state (high probability state) and a time-saving state (high base state) It is preferable to provide (the opening pattern of the special winning opening is the same in the case of sudden variation big hit and small hit).

In the jackpot type determination tables 131a and 131b, the determination values (the jackpot type determination values, which are numerical values to be compared with the value of Random 1 and correspond to "normal jackpot", "probability variation jackpot", and "sudden probability variation jackpot", respectively. ) Is 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.

8 and 9 are explanatory diagrams showing an example of the contents of the effect control command transmitted by the game control microcomputer 560. In the example shown in FIG. 8 and FIG. 9, the command 80XX(H) is a production control command (fluctuation pattern command) for designating a variation pattern of the effect symbol that is variably displayed on the effect display device 9 corresponding to the variable display of the special symbol. ) (Each corresponding to the variation pattern XX). That is, when a unique number is given to each of the fluctuation patterns that can be used, there is a fluctuation pattern command corresponding to each of the fluctuation patterns specified by the number. In addition, "(H)" shows 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), it controls the effect display device 9 to start the variable display of effect symbols.

Commands 8C01(H) to 8C05(H) are effect control commands indicating whether to make a big hit, whether to make a small hit, and a big hit type. Since the effect control microcomputer 100 determines the display result of the effect design in response to the reception of the commands 8C01(H) to 8C05(H), the commands 8C01(H) to 8C05(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 variation 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 (symbol confirmation designation command) indicating that the variable display (variation) of the fourth symbol is ended and the display result (stop symbol) is derived and displayed. When the effect control microcomputer 100 receives the symbol fixing designation command, the variable display (fluctuation) of the fourth symbol 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. The game control microcomputer 560 transmits a power failure recovery designation command when data is stored in the backup RAM when power supply to the gaming machine is started, and otherwise, initialization designation Send a command.

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

Commands A001 to A003 (H) are display control commands (big hit start designation command: fanfare designation command) for displaying the fanfare screen, that is, designating the start of the big hit game. In this embodiment, a big hit start 1 designation command, a big hit start 2 designation command, or a small hit/sudden-variable big hit start designation command is used according to the type of big hit. Specifically, in the case of "normal big hit", the big hit start 1 designation command (A001(H)) is used, and in the case of "probable variation big hit", the big hit start 2 designation command (A002(H)) is used. In the case of "sudden sudden change big hit" or "small hit", a small hit/sudden sudden change big hit start designation command (A003 (H)) is used. It should be noted that the game control microcomputer 560 transmits a fanfare designating command for sudden probability big hit start designation in the case of a sudden big hit, but does not send a fanfare designating command in the case of a small hit. Good.

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. Note that the special winning opening opening designation command is transmitted for each round with a value designating that round set in the EXT data, and thus a different special winning opening opening designation command is transmitted for each round. For example, when executing the first round during the big hit game, a special winning opening open designation command (A101(H)) designating round 1 is transmitted, and when executing the tenth round during the big hit game. Sends a special winning opening open designation command (A10A(H)) designating round 10. A2XX (H) is an effect control command (designation command after opening the special winning opening) indicating the closing of the special winning opening for the number of times (round) indicated by XX. Since the special winning opening after-opening designation command is transmitted for each round with the value designating that round set in the EXT data, a different special winning opening after-designation command is transmitted for each round. For example, when finishing the first round during the big hit game, a command (A201(H)) after opening the special winning opening that designates round 1 is transmitted, and when finishing the tenth round during the big hit game. Sends a special winning opening open designation command (A30A(H)) designating round 10.

Command A301 (H) is a production control command (big hit end 1 designation command: ending 1 designation command) for displaying the big hit end screen, that is, designating the end of the big hit game. The big hit end 1 designation command (A301 (H)) is used when the big hit game by "normal big hit" is ended. Command A302 (H) is a production control command (big hit end 2 designation command: ending 2 designation command) for displaying the big hit end screen, that is, designating the end of the big hit game. The jackpot end 2 designation command (A302(H)) is used when the jackpot game by "probably strange jackpot" is finished. The command A303 (H) is a production control command (small hit/sudden positive sudden change big hit end designation command: ending 3 designation command) for designating the end of the game of small hit or the sudden sudden change big hit. It should be noted that the game control microcomputer 560 is configured to transmit an ending designation command for sudden variation big hit end designation when it is a sudden variation big hit, but not to send an ending designation command when it is a small hit. Good.

Command B000 (H) is an effect control command (normal state background designation command) that designates the background display when the game state is the normal state. Command B001 (H) is a production control command (probability variation state background designation command) for designating the background display when the game state is the probability variation state. Command B002 (H) is a production control command (time saving state background designating command) for designating the background display when the game state is the time saving state.

Command C000 (H) is an effect control command (first reserved memory number addition designating command) that specifies that the first reserved memory number has increased by 1. Command C100 (H) is an effect control command (second reserved storage number addition specification command) that specifies that the second reserved storage number has increased by 1. Command C200 (H) is an effect control command (first reserved memory number subtraction designation command) that specifies that the first reserved memory number has decreased by 1. Command C300 (H) is an effect control command (second reserved storage number subtraction designation command) that specifies that the second reserved storage number has decreased by 1.

In this embodiment, as the reserved storage information, for the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory number, an effect control command (first reserved memory number addition designation) indicating that the reserved memory number has increased or decreased, respectively. Command, second reserved storage number addition designation command) is transmitted, but the form of the reserved storage information is not limited to that shown in this embodiment, and for example, the reserved storage in the following mode The information may be transmitted.

(1) As the reserved storage information, only one command is transmitted, which one of the first reserved memory and the second reserved memory is increased in the one command is specified, and the increased number of reserved memories is also specified. The (first reserved memory number or the second reserved memory number) may be set as EXT data and transmitted.

(2) As the reserved storage information, only one command is transmitted, which one of the first reserved memory and the second reserved memory is increased in the one command is specified, and the total reserved memory number is set to the EXT data. May be set and transmitted.

(3) As the reserved memory information, which one of the first start winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14 has the starting prize (which of the first reserved memory and the second reserved memory has increased) is designated. The production control command (first start winning award designating command, second start winning award designating command) is transmitted, and separately from that, a reserved storage number designating command for designating the number of reserved storages is transmitted. The total number of pending storages may be set as EXT data and transmitted.

(4) As the reserved memory information, which one of the first start winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14 has the starting prize (which of the first reserved memory and the second reserved memory has increased) is designated. The production control command (the first start winning award designation command, the second starting award designation command) is transmitted, and in addition to that, the reserved storage number designation command for designating the reserved storage number is transmitted. The increased storage number (first storage number or second storage number) may be set as EXT data and transmitted.

(5) Instead of not providing the reserved storage number subtraction designation command, a fluctuation pattern command is transmitted to indicate that the reserved storage number has decreased. That is, on the side of the effect control board 80, when the variation pattern command is received, it is determined that the number of reserved memories has decreased, and the process is executed.

The effect control microcomputer 100 (specifically, effect control CPU 101) mounted on the effect control board 80 receives the above-described effect control command from the game control microcomputer 560 mounted on the main board 31. Then, according to the contents shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, the display state of the effect display device 9 is changed, the display state of the lamp is changed, and the sound number data is output to the voice output board 70. To do.

For example, the game control microcomputer 560, there is a start winning, every time the variable display of the special symbol is started on the first special symbol display device 8a or the second special symbol display device 8b, the variation pattern of the effect symbol is designated. The variation pattern command and the display result designation command are transmitted to the effect control microcomputer 100.

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". In addition, such a command form is an example, and another command form 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 to the production control board 80 from the main board 31 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 effect control command data, a method of outputting a pulse-shaped (rectangular wave) capture signal (effect control INT signal) for instructing capture of effect 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.

In the example shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, the variation pattern command and the display result designation command are the variable display (variation) and the second special of the effect symbol corresponding to the variation of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display 8a. It can be used in common with the variable display (fluctuation) of the effect symbol corresponding to the variation of the second special symbol on the symbol display device 8b, and the effect display is performed along with the variable display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol. When controlling the production parts such as the device 9, it is possible not to increase the types of commands transmitted from the game control microcomputer 560 to the production control microcomputer 100.

10 and 11 are flowcharts showing an example of a program of special symbol process processing (step S26) executed by the game control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) mounted on the main board 31. 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 process, the CPU 56, if the first start opening switch 13a for detecting that the game ball has won the first start winning opening 13 is on, that is, the start to the first starting winning opening 13 If a winning has occurred, a first starting opening switch passage process is executed (steps S311 and S312). Further, the CPU 56, if the second start opening switch 14a for detecting that the game ball has won in the second start winning opening 14 is turned on, that is, the start winning to the second start winning opening 14 has occurred. Then, the second starting opening switch passage processing is executed (steps S313 and S314). Then, any one of steps S300 to S310 is performed. If the first start winning opening switch 13a or the second starting opening switch 14a is not turned on, any one of steps S300 to S310 is performed according to the internal state.

The processes of steps S300 to S310 are the following processes.

Special symbol normal processing (step S300): is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 0. When the variable display of the special symbol can be started, the game control microcomputer 560 confirms the number of stored numerical data (total number of reserved storages) stored in the reserved storage buffer. The number of stored numerical data stored in the reserved storage buffer can be confirmed by the count value of the total reserved storage number counter. Further, 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.

Fluctuation 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 derived 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 control for transmitting the variation pattern command according to the determined variation pattern to the effect control microcomputer 100 is performed, and the variation time timer for measuring the variation time of the special symbol 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 variation 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. The effect control microcomputer 100 controls the effect display device 9 so that the fourth symbol is stopped when the symbol confirmation designation command transmitted by the game control microcomputer 560 is received.

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 small hit flag is set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (8 in this example) corresponding to step S308. When neither the big hit flag nor the small hit flag is 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, 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 (see FIG. 21), and the stop symbol of the special symbol is actually stopped and displayed in accordance with the setting content 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. In addition, while controlling to transmit the special winning opening opening designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100, the execution time of the special winning opening opening process is set by the timer, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is set to step S306. To a value corresponding to (6 in this example). 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 the big hit game. In addition, since the special winning opening opening designation command is transmitted for each round with a value designating that round set in the EXT data, a different special winning opening opening designation command is transmitted for each round. For example, when executing the first round during the big hit game, a special winning opening open designation command (A101(H)) designating round 1 is transmitted, and when executing the tenth round during the big hit game. Sends a special winning opening open designation command (A10A(H)) designating round 10.

Special winning opening opening process (step S306): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 6. In the process of opening the special winning opening, a process of confirming the establishment of the closing condition of the special winning opening is 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 (5 in this example) corresponding to step S305. In addition, while performing control to transmit the designation command after opening during the big hit to the effect control microcomputer 100, when all rounds are finished, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is set to a value corresponding to step S307 (this In the example, update to 7).

Big hit end processing (step S307): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 7. The control for causing the effect control microcomputer 100 to perform the 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.

Small hit opening pre-processing (step S308): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 8. In the small hit 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. In addition, 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 (9 in this example) corresponding to step S309. The small hit opening pre-processing is executed each time the big winning opening is opened during the small hit game, but when the first opening during the small hit game is started, the small hit opening pre-processing is the small hit game. It is also the process to start.

Small hit open process (step S309): is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 9. The processing etc. which confirms establishment of the closing conditions of the special winning opening are performed. When the closing condition of the special winning opening is satisfied, and the number of times of opening the special winning opening still remains, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is set to a value (8 in this example) corresponding to step S308. Update. In addition, when all opening is completed, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (10 in this example) corresponding to step S310.

Small hit end processing (step S310): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 10. The control for causing the effect control microcomputer 100 to perform the display control for notifying the player that the small hitting game state has ended. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (0 in this example) corresponding to step S300.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the starting port switch passage processing in steps S312 and S314. Of these, FIG. 12A is a flowchart showing the first starting port switch passage processing of step S312. Further, FIG. 12B is a flowchart showing the second starting opening switch passage processing of step S314.

First, the first starting opening switch passage processing will be described with reference to FIG. In the first start opening switch passage processing executed when the first start opening switch 13a is in the ON state, the CPU 56 first determines whether or not the first reserved storage number has reached the upper limit value (specifically, It is confirmed whether or not the value of the first reserved memory number counter for counting the number of 1 reserved memories is 4 (step S1211A). If the first number of reserved storages has reached the upper limit value, the processing is terminated as it is.

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 S1212A), 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 S1213A). Next, the CPU 56 executes a process of extracting values from the random number circuit 503 and a counter for generating software random numbers, and storing them in the storage area of the first pending storage buffer (see FIG. 13) (step S1214A). .. In the process of step S1214A, a random number R (big hit determination random number) that is a hardware random number, a big hit type determination random number (random 1) that is a software random number, a variation pattern type determination random number (random 2), and a variation pattern. A judgment random number (random 3) is extracted and stored in the storage area. Random pattern determination random number (random 3) is not extracted and stored in the storage area in advance in the first starting opening switch passage process (at the time of winning a prize), but is extracted at the start of the variation of the first special symbol. You may do it. For example, the game control microcomputer 560 may directly extract a value from a fluctuation pattern determination random number counter for generating a fluctuation pattern determination random number (random 3) in a fluctuation pattern setting process described later.

FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of an area (reserved storage buffer) for storing random numbers and the like corresponding to the reserved storage. As shown in FIG. 13, in the first reserved storage buffer, a storage area corresponding to the upper limit value (4 in this example) of the first reserved storage number is secured. 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. In this embodiment, in the first pending storage buffer and the second pending storage buffer, a random number R (big hit determination random number) that is a hardware random number, a big hit type determination random number (random 1) that is a software random number, and a variation A random number for pattern type determination (random 2) and a random number for variation pattern determination (random 3) are stored. The first pending storage buffer and the second pending storage buffer are formed in the RAM 55.

And CPU56 performs control which transmits the 1st reservation storage number addition designation command to microcomputer 100 for production control (Step S1215A).

Next, the second starting opening switch passage processing will be described with reference to FIG. In the second starting opening switch passage processing executed when the second starting opening switch 14a is in the ON state, the CPU 56 determines whether or not the second number of reserved storages has reached the upper limit value (specifically, the second pending storage). It is confirmed whether or not the value of the second reserved storage number counter for counting the storage number is 4 (step S1211B). If the second number of reserved storages has reached the upper limit value, the processing is ended as it is.

If the second reserved storage number has not reached the upper limit value, the CPU 56 increments the value of the second reserved storage number counter by 1 (step S1212B), and at the same time, the value of the combined reserved storage number counter for counting the combined reserved storage number. Is incremented by 1 (step S1213B). Next, the CPU 56 executes a process of extracting values from the random number circuit 503 and the counter for generating the software random number and storing them in the storage area in the second reserved storage buffer (see FIG. 13) (step S1214B). .. In the process of step S1214B, a random R (big hit determination random number) that is a hardware random number, a big hit type determination random number (random 1) that is a software random number, a variation pattern type determination random number (random 2), and a variation pattern. The judgment random number (random 3) is extracted and stored in the storage area. It should be noted that the variation pattern determination random number (random 3) is not extracted and stored in the storage area in advance in the second starting opening switch passage process (at the time of winning a prize), but is extracted at the time when the variation of the second special symbol is started. You may do it. For example, the game control microcomputer 560 may directly extract a value from a fluctuation pattern determination random number counter for generating a fluctuation pattern determination random number (random 3) in a fluctuation pattern setting process described later.

And CPU56 performs control which transmits the 2nd reservation storage number addition designation command to the microcomputer 100 for effect control (step S1215B).

14 and 15 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 pending storage number is 0, and if the customer waiting demo designating command has not been transmitted yet, control is performed to transmit the customer waiting demo designating command to the production control microcomputer 100 (step S51A), and the processing is executed. finish. Note that, for example, when the CPU 56 transmits the customer waiting demo designating command in step S51A, the CPU 56 sets a customer waiting demo designating command transmitted flag indicating that the customer waiting demo designating command has been transmitted. Then, when the special symbol normal processing after the next timer interrupt is executed after transmitting the customer waiting demo designation command, the customer waiting is repeated based on that the customer waiting demo designation command transmitted flag is set. It may be controlled not to send the demo designation command. Further, in this case, the customer waiting demonstration designated command transmitted flag may be reset when the next variable display of the special symbol is started.

If the total pending storage number is not 0, the CPU 56 confirms whether the second pending storage number is 0 (step S52). Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the second reserved storage number counter is 0. If the second reserved storage number is not 0, the CPU 56 is a special symbol pointer (a flag indicating whether special symbol process processing is being performed for the first special symbol or special symbol process processing is being performed for the second special symbol). Is set to data indicating "second" (step S53). If the second reserved memory number is 0 (that is, only the first reserved memory number is accumulated), the CPU 66 sets the data indicating "first" to the special symbol pointer (step S54).

In this embodiment, by performing the processing of steps S52 to S54, the variable display of the second special symbol is preferentially executed with respect to the variable display of the first special symbol. In other words, the second start condition for starting the variable display of the second special symbol is controlled so as to take precedence over the first start condition for starting the variable display of the first special symbol.

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”, each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the first number of reserved memories in the first reserved memory buffer=1. 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 out each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the second reserved storage number=1 in the second reserved storage buffer. The data is stored in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55.

Then, the CPU 56 decrements the count value of the reserved storage number counter indicated by the special symbol pointer by 1, 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 in the reserved specific area and the first reserved storage buffer. Shift the contents of each storage area. Further, when the special symbol pointer indicates "second", the count value of the second reserved storage number counter is decremented by 1, and the contents of each reserved area in the reserved specific area and the second reserved memory buffer are shifted. To do.

That is, the CPU 56, in the case where the special symbol pointer indicates “first”, in the storage area corresponding to the first reserved storage number=n (n=2, 3, 4) in the first reserved storage buffer of the RAM 55. Each stored random number value is stored in the storage area corresponding to the first number of pending storages=n-1. Further, when the special symbol pointer indicates "second", each is stored in the storage area corresponding to the second reserved storage number=n (n=2, 3, 4) in the second reserved storage buffer of the RAM 55. The random number value is stored in the storage area corresponding to the second number of reserved storages=n-1. Further, the CPU 56 adds up the values (the values indicating “first” or “second”) stored in the storage areas corresponding to the total number of pending storages=m (m=2 to 8) in the pending specific area. Store in the storage area corresponding to the number of reserved storages=m-1.

Therefore, the order in which each random number value stored in each storage area corresponding to each first reserved memory number (or each second reserved memory number) is always extracted is always the first reserved memory number (or, The second reserved memory number)=1, 2, 3, 4 and the order. Further, the order in which the respective values stored in the respective storage areas corresponding to the respective total reserved storage numbers are extracted always matches the order of the total reserved storage numbers=1-8.

Then, the CPU 56 decrements the value of the total pending storage number by 1. That is, the count value of the total pending storage number counter is decremented by 1 (step S58). The CPU 56 stores the value of the total pending storage number counter before the count value is subtracted by 1 in a predetermined area of the RAM 55.

Further, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a background designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 according to the current game state (step S60). In this case, when the probability variation flag indicating the probability variation state is set, the CPU 56 controls to transmit the probability variation state background designation command. Further, the CPU 56 controls to transmit the time saving state background designation command when only the time saving flag indicating the time saving state is set and the probability variation flag is not set. If neither the probability variation flag nor the time saving flag is set, the CPU 56 controls to send the normal state background designation command.

In addition, specifically, when transmitting the effect control command to the effect control microcomputer 100, the CPU 56 sets the address of the command transmission table (set in advance in the ROM for each command) according to the effect control command. Set it to a pointer. 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). In this embodiment, when the variation of the special symbol is started, the background designation command, the variation pattern command, the display result designation command, the reserved storage number subtraction designation command (the first reserved storage number subtraction) for each timer interrupt. The designation command or the second reserved storage number subtraction designation command) is transmitted in this order to the effect control microcomputer 100. Specifically, when the fluctuation of the special symbol is started, first, a background designation command is transmitted, a variation pattern command is transmitted after 4 ms has elapsed, a display result designation command is transmitted after 4 ms has elapsed, and further 4 ms has elapsed. The reserved storage count subtraction designation command (the first reserved storage count subtraction designation command or the second reserved storage count subtraction designation command) is transmitted. In addition, when the variation of the special symbol is started, the symbol variation designation command (first symbol variation designation command, second symbol variation designation command) is also transmitted, but the symbol variation designation command is the same timer interrupt as the variation pattern command. Is transmitted to the effect control microcomputer 100.

In the special symbol normal process, first, the data indicating "first" indicating that the process is executed targeting the first start winning opening 13, that is, indicating that the process is performed targeting the first special symbol "first" Or data indicating "second" indicating that the process is executed for the second start winning opening 14, that is, indicating "second" indicating that the process is executed for the second special symbol. The data is set in the special symbol pointer. Then, in the subsequent processing in the special symbol process processing, processing according to the data set in the special symbol pointer is executed. Therefore, the processes of steps S300 to S310 can be shared between the case of targeting the first special symbol and the case of targeting the second special symbol.

Next, the CPU 56 reads out a random R (random number for jackpot determination) from the random number buffer area and executes the jackpot determination module. In this case, the CPU 56 is for the big hit determination which is extracted in step S1214A of the first starting opening switch passage processing or step S1214B of the second starting opening switch passage processing and stored in advance in the first pending storage buffer or the second pending storage buffer. Read the random number and judge the big hit. The jackpot determination module compares a predetermined jackpot determination value or a jackpot determination value (see FIG. 7) with a jackpot determination random number, and if they match, executes processing to determine a jackpot or a jackpot. It is a program to do. That is, it is a program that executes the processing of the big hit judgment and the small hit judgment.

In the jackpot determination process, when the gaming state is the probable variation state, the probability of being a jackpot is higher than when the gaming state is the non-probability variation state (normal state or time saving state). Specifically, the probability variation big hit determination table in which a large number of big hit determination values are set in advance (a table in the ROM 54 in which the numerical value on the right side of FIG. 7A is set) and the number of big hit determination values A normal big hit judgment table (a table in which the numerical values on the left side of FIG. 7A in the ROM 54 are set) set to be smaller than the big hit judgment table is provided. Then, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the gaming state is the probability variation state. When the gaming state is the probability variation state, the CPU 56 performs a jackpot determination process using the probability variation big jackpot determination table, and the gaming state is normal. When it is in a state, the jackpot determination table is used for the jackpot determination table in the normal time. That is, when the value of the big hit determination random number (random R) matches any of the big hit determination values shown in FIG. 7(A), the CPU 56 determines to make a big hit for the special symbol. When it is determined to be a big hit (step S61), the process proceeds to step S71. It should be noted that determining whether or not to be a big hit is to determine whether or not to shift to a big hit game state, but to determine whether or not to make a stop symbol in the special symbol display device a big hit symbol But also.

The confirmation as to whether or not the current game state is the probability variation state is performed by 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 determined to be a "probably odd big hit" or "a sudden sudden big hit", and is set in the process of ending the big hit game. After the jackpot game is over, it is reset when the next jackpot occurs.

If the value of the big hit determination random number (random R) does not match any of the big hit determination values (N in step S61), the CPU 56 uses the small hit determination table (see FIGS. 7B and 7C). Then, the process of determining a small hit is performed. That is, the CPU 56 determines that the special symbol is a small hit if the value of the random number for random determination (random R) matches any of the small hit determination values shown in FIGS. 7B and 7C. In this case, the CPU 56 confirms the data indicated by the special symbol pointer, and if the data indicated by the special symbol pointer is “first”, the small hit determination table (for the first special symbol) shown in FIG. 7B. ) Is used to determine whether to make a small hit. Further, when the data indicated by the special symbol pointer is "second", it is determined whether or not to make a small hit using the small hit determination table (for the second special symbol) shown in FIG. 7C. .. Then, when it is determined to be a small hit (step S62), the CPU 56 sets a small hit flag indicating that it is a small hit (step S63), and proceeds to step S75.

If the value of the random R does not match either the big hit judgment value or the small hit judgment value (N in step S62), that is, if it is out of alignment, the process directly proceeds to step S75.

In step S71, the CPU 56 sets a big hit flag indicating that it is a big hit. Then, as the table used for determining the jackpot type to any one of a plurality of types, the jackpot type determination table indicated by the special symbol pointer is selected (step S72). Specifically, when the special symbol pointer indicates "first", the CPU 56 selects the jackpot type determination table 131a for the first special symbol shown in FIG. 7D. Further, when the special symbol pointer indicates "second", the CPU 56 selects the big hit type determination table 131b for the second special symbol shown in FIG. 7(E).

Next, the CPU 56 uses the selected jackpot type determination table to select the type (“normal jackpot”, “probable variation”) 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. "Big hit" or "Suddenly sudden change big hit") is determined as the type of big hit (step S73). In this case, the CPU 56 determines the jackpot type which is extracted in step S1214A of the first starting opening switch passage processing or step S1214B of the second starting opening switch passage processing and stored in advance in the first pending storage buffer or the second pending storage buffer. The random number for use is read and the jackpot type is determined. Further, in this case, as shown in FIGS. 7(D) and (E), when the variable display of the first special symbol is executed, compared with the case where the variable display of the second special symbol is executed. Therefore, the probability of sudden probability jackpot being selected is high.

Further, the CPU 56 sets the data indicating the determined jackpot type in the jackpot type buffer in the RAM 55 (step S74). For example, when the big hit type is "normal big hit", "01" is set as the data indicating the big hit type, and when the big hit type is "probable variation big hit", "02" is set as the data indicating the big hit type, When the big hit type is "a sudden probability big hit", "03" is set as data indicating the big hit type.

Next, the CPU 56 determines the stop symbol of the special symbol (step S75). Specifically, when neither the big hit flag nor the small hit flag is set, "-" which is a deviating symbol is determined as a stop symbol of the special symbol. When the big hit flag is set, one of the big hit symbols “1”, “3”, and “7” is determined as the stop symbol of the special symbol according to the determination result of the big hit type. That is, when the jackpot type is determined to be "a sudden sudden change jackpot", "1" is determined as a stop symbol of the special symbol, and when "normal jackpot" is determined, "3" is determined as a stop symbol of the special symbol. However, when the "probable variation big hit" is determined, "7" is determined as the stop symbol of the special symbol. Further, when the small hit flag is set, "5" which is a small hit symbol is determined as a stop symbol of the special symbol.

In this embodiment, the big hit type is first determined, and the stop symbol of the special symbol corresponding to the determined big hit type is shown. However, the method of determining the big symbol type and the stop symbol of the special symbol is It is not limited to those shown in the embodiments. 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 the value corresponding to the variation pattern setting process (step S301) (step S76).

FIG. 16 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 confirms whether or not the big hit flag is set (step S91). When the big hit flag is set, the CPU 56 selects one of the big hit fluctuation pattern type determination tables as a table to be used for determining one of the plurality of kinds of fluctuation pattern types (step). S92). Then, the process proceeds to step S100.

When the big hit flag is not set, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the small hit flag is set (step S93). When the small hit flag is set, the CPU 56 selects the small hit variation pattern type determination table as a table used for determining the variation pattern type to any one of a plurality of types (step S94). ). Then, the process proceeds to step S100.

When the small hit flag is not set either, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the time saving flag indicating the time saving state is set (step S95). The time saving flag is set when the gaming state is changed to the probability changing state or the time saving state, and is reset when ending the time saving state. Specifically, when it is determined to be the "normal big hit", the time saving flag is set in the process of ending the big hit game. Also, after the jackpot game is over, it is reset when the variable display of a predetermined number of times (100 times in this embodiment) is finished. It should be noted that the time saving flag is reset even when the next big hit occurs even before the variable display for the predetermined number of times is finished. Further, when it is determined that the "probability variation big hit" or "sudden probability variation big hit", the probability variation flag is set and the time saving flag is set in the process of ending the big hit game. Then, when the next big hit occurs, the time variation flag is reset together with the probability variation flag.

If the time saving flag is not set (N in step S95), the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the total pending storage number is 3 or more (step S96). If the total number of pending storages is less than 3 (N in step S96), the CPU 56 determines a normal out-of-range fluctuation pattern type determination as a table used to determine any one of a plurality of fluctuation pattern types. A table is selected (step S97). Then, the process proceeds to step S100.

When the total number of pending storages is 3 or more (Y in step S96), the CPU 56 uses the fluctuation pattern for shortening as a table used for determining the fluctuation pattern type to any one of a plurality of kinds. A type determination table is selected (step S98). Then, the process proceeds to step S100.

When the time saving flag is set (Y in step S95), that is, when the game state is the probability changing state or the time saving state (in this embodiment, when the game state is shifted to the probability changing state, the time saving state is always set. Is also changed (see steps S169 and S170), and if Y is determined in step S95, there is a case of a probable variation state or a case where control is performed only in the time saving state). As the table used to determine any one of a plurality of types, the time-shifting out-of-range variation pattern type determination table is selected (step S99). Then, the process proceeds to step S100.

In this embodiment, by executing the processing of steps S95 to S99, when the gaming state is the normal state and the total number of pending storages is 3 or more, the shortening variation pattern type determination table for out-of-range. Is selected. In addition, when the game state is the probability change state or the time saving state, the time variation saving variation pattern type determination table is selected. In this case, the variation pattern type including the variation pattern of the shortened variation may be determined as the variation pattern type in the process of step S100 described below, and when the variation pattern type including the variation pattern of the shortened variation is determined, In the process of step S102, the variation pattern of the shortening variation is determined as the variation pattern. Therefore, in this embodiment, when the gaming state is the probability variation state or the time saving state, or when the total number of pending storage is 3 or more, the variation display of the shortening variation may be displayed.

Next, the CPU 56 reads out Random 2 (random number for fluctuation pattern type determination) from the random number buffer area (first pending storage buffer or second pending storage buffer) and selects it in the processing of step S92, S94, S97, S98 or S99. By referring to the table, the variation pattern type is determined to be one of a plurality of types (step S100).

Next, the CPU 56 determines whether the variation pattern is one of a plurality of variations based on the determination result of the variation pattern type in step S100, as a hit variation pattern determination table or a deviation variation pattern determination table. Any one of them is selected (step S101). In addition, the random pattern 3 is read from the random number buffer area (first pending storage buffer or second pending storage buffer), and the fluctuation pattern determination table selected in the process of step S101 is referred to Is determined to be one of a plurality of types (step S102). When the random number 3 (fluctuation pattern determination random number) is not extracted at the timing of the start winning, the CPU 56 causes the variation pattern determination random number counter to generate the variation pattern determination random number (random 3). It is also possible to directly extract the value from and to determine the fluctuation pattern based on the extracted random value.

Next, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit the symbol variation designation command indicated by the special symbol pointer to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S103). Specifically, when the special symbol pointer indicates "first", the CPU 56 controls to transmit the first symbol variation designation command. Further, when the special symbol pointer indicates "second", the CPU 56 controls to transmit the second symbol variation designation command. Further, the CPU 56 performs control for transmitting the effect control command (fluctuation pattern command) corresponding to the determined fluctuation pattern to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S104).

Next, the CPU 56 sets a value according to the fluctuation time corresponding to the selected fluctuation pattern in the fluctuation time timer formed in the RAM 55 (step S105). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to the value corresponding to the display result designation command transmission process (step S302) (step S106).

FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing the display result designation command transmission process (step S302). In the display result designation command transmission process, the CPU 56 transmits one of the display result 1 designation to the display result 5 designation effect control command (see FIG. 8) according to the determined type of big hit, small hit, or loss. Control. Specifically, the CPU 56 first confirms whether or not the big hit flag is set (step S110). If not set, the process proceeds to step S116. When the big hit flag is set and the big hit type is "normal big hit", control is performed to transmit the display result 2 designation command (steps S111 and S112). Whether or not it is a "normal big hit" can be specifically determined by confirming whether or not the data set in the big hit type buffer in step S74 of the special symbol normal processing is "01". .. Further, when the type of big hit is "probable variation big hit", the CPU 56 controls to transmit the display result 3 designation command (steps S113 and S114). Whether or not the “probable variation big hit” can be specifically determined by checking whether or not the data set in the big hit type buffer in step S74 of the special symbol normal processing is “02”. .. Then, when it is neither "normal big hit" nor "probability change big hit" (that is, when it is "sudden probability big hit"), the CPU 56 controls to transmit the display result 4 designation command (step S115).

On the other hand, when the big hit flag is not set (N in step S110), the CPU 56 checks whether or not the small hit flag is set (step S116). If the small hit flag is set, the CPU 56 controls to transmit the display result 5 designation command (step S117). When the small hit flag is not set (N in step S116), that is, when it is out of alignment, the CPU 56 controls to transmit the display result 1 designation command (step S118).

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 S119).

FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing a special symbol changing process (step S303) in the special symbol process process. In the special symbol changing process, the CPU 56 first confirms whether or not the reserved storage number subtraction designation command (first reserved storage number subtraction designation command or second reserved storage number subtraction designation command) has already been transmitted ( Step S1121). Whether or not the pending storage number subtraction designation command has already been transmitted indicates, for example, that the pending storage number subtraction designation command has been transmitted when the pending storage number subtraction designation command is transmitted in step S1122 described later. The storage number subtraction designation command transmitted flag may be set, and in step S1121, it may be confirmed whether or not the reserved storage number subtraction designation command transmitted flag is set. Also, in this case, the set reserved storage number subtraction designation command transmitted flag should be reset by special symbol stop processing or jackpot ending processing, which will be described later, when terminating variable display of special symbols or terminating jackpot. Good.

Next, if the reservation storage number subtraction designation command has not been transmitted, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit the reservation storage number subtraction designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S1122). In this case, when the value indicating “first” is set in the special symbol pointer, the CPU 56 controls to transmit the first reserved storage number subtraction designation command. Further, when the value indicating "second" is set to the special symbol pointer, the CPU 56 controls to transmit the second reserved storage number subtraction designation command.

Next, the CPU 56 decrements the variable time timer by 1 (step S1125), and when the variable time timer times out (step S1126), performs control to send a symbol confirmation designating command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S1127). 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 S1128). If the variable time timer has not timed out, the process is terminated as it is.

FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing a special symbol stop process (step S304) in the special symbol process process. In the special symbol stop processing, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the big hit flag is set (step S131). If 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 reduction state if set (step S132), and the effect control The control for transmitting the big hit start designation command to the microcomputer 100 for use is performed (step S133). Specifically, when the type of big hit is "normal big hit", a big hit start 1 designation command (command A001 (H)) is transmitted. If the type of the big hit is "probable variation big hit", the big hit start 2 designation command (command A002(H)) is transmitted. If the type of the big hit is the sudden probability big hit, the small hit/suddenly sudden big hit start designation command (command A003(H)) is transmitted. Whether the type of jackpot is "normal jackpot", "probability variation jackpot" or "sudden variation jackpot" is data indicating the jackpot type stored in the RAM 55 (data stored in the jackpot type buffer). It is judged based on.

In addition, the big hit display time timer is set to a value corresponding to the big hit display time (a time at which the effect display device 9 notifies that the big hit has occurred) (step S134). In addition, the number of times of opening (for example, 15 times in the case of "normal big hit" or "probability variation big hit", 2 times in the case of "a sudden probability variation big hit") is set in the special winning opening release counter (step S135). .. Also, the round time per round in the big hit game is set. Specifically, in the case of a sudden probability big hit, the round time is set to 0.1 second, and in the case of a normal big hit or a probability big hit, the round time is set to 29 seconds. Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special winning opening opening preprocessing (step S305) (step S136).

If the big hit flag is not set in step S131, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the value of the hour/hour count counter that indicates the number of times the special symbol can fluctuate in the hour/short state is 0 (step S137). If the value of the hour/hour counter is not 0, the CPU 56 decrements the value of the hour/hour counter by -1 (step S138). Then, when the value of the hour/hour counter after subtraction becomes 0 (step S139), the CPU 56 resets the hour/hour flag (step S140).

Next, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the small hit flag is set (step S141). If the small hit flag is set, the CPU 56 sends a small hit/suddenly probable variation big hit start command (command A003(H)) to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S142). Further, a value corresponding to the small hit display time (a time at which the effect display device 9 is notified that the small hit has occurred, for example) is set in the small hit display time timer (step S143). In addition, the number of times of opening (for example, twice) is set in the special winning opening opening counter (step S144). Also, the opening time for each big winning opening in the small hit game is set. Specifically, 0.1 seconds, which is the same as the round time for the sudden change big hit, is set as the opening time for each big winning opening in the small hit game. Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the small hit start preprocessing (step S308) (step S145).

If the small hit flag is not set (N in step S141), 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 S146).

FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing a big hit ending process (step S307) in the special symbol process process. In the big hit ending process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the big hit end display timer is set (step S160). If the big hit 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). Here, in the case of "normal big hit", the big hit end 1 designation command (command A301(H)) is transmitted, and in the case of "probability variation big hit" big hit end 2 designation command (command A302(H)) ) Is transmitted, and if it is "a sudden probability big hit", a small hit/a sudden probability big hit end designation command (command A303(H)) is transmitted. Then, the big hit end display timer is set to a value corresponding to the display time corresponding to the time during which the big hit end display is performed on the effect display device 9 (big hit end display time) (step S163), and the process ends.

In step S164, the value of the jackpot end display timer is decremented by 1 (step S164). Then, the CPU 56 confirms 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.

If the jackpot end display time has elapsed (Y in step S165), the CPU 56 checks whether or not the jackpot to be finished this time is a normal jackpot (step S166). Whether or not it is a "normal big hit" can be specifically determined by confirming whether or not the data set in the big hit type buffer in step S74 of the special symbol normal processing is "01". .. If it is a normal big hit, the CPU 56 sets a time saving flag and shifts to a time saving state (step S167). In addition, the CPU 56 sets a predetermined number of times (for example, 100 times) in the time saving counter (step S168).

If it is not a normal big hit (that is, if it is a probability variation big hit or a sudden probability variation big hit), the CPU 56 sets the probability variation flag to shift to the probability variation state (step S169) and sets the time saving flag to shift to the time reduction state. (Step S170).

Then, 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 S171).

FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing an example of a program of special symbol display control processing (step S32) executed by the game control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) mounted on the main board 31. In the special symbol display control process, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the value of the special symbol process flag is 3 (step S3201). If the value of the special symbol process flag is 3 (that is, during the execution of the special symbol variation process), the CPU 56 sets the special symbol display control data for the special symbol variation display for the special symbol display control data. A process for setting or updating the output buffer is performed (step S3202). In this case, the CPU 56 sets or updates the special symbol display control data for performing variable display of the special symbol indicated by the special symbol pointer (first special symbol or second special symbol). For example, if the changing speed is 1 frame/0.2 seconds, the value of the special symbol display control data set in the output buffer is incremented by 1 every 0.2 seconds. Then, after that, the display control process (see step S22) is executed, and the drive signal is output to the special symbol display devices 8a and 8b according to the contents of the output buffer for the special symbol display control data setting, The variable display of the special symbols on the special symbol display devices 8a and 8b is executed.

If the value of the special symbol process flag is not 3, the CPU 56 confirms whether the value of the special symbol process flag is 4 (step S3203). If the value of the special symbol process flag is 4 (that is, in the case of shifting to the special symbol stop process), the CPU 56 is a special symbol for stopping and displaying the stop symbol of the special symbol set in the special symbol normal process. The display control data is set in the output buffer for setting the special symbol display control data (step S3204). In this case, the CPU 56 sets the special symbol display control data for stopping and displaying the stop symbol of the special symbol (the first special symbol or the second special symbol) indicated by the special symbol pointer. Then, after that, the display control process (see step S22) is executed, and the drive signal is output to the special symbol display devices 8a and 8b according to the contents of the output buffer for the special symbol display control data setting, The stop symbols of the special symbols are stopped and displayed on the special symbol display devices 8a and 8b. After the process of step S3204 is executed and the special symbol display control data for stop symbol display is set, the setting data is not changed, so the latest special symbol display control data is displayed in the display control process of step S22. Based on this, the latest stop symbol will continue to be stopped and displayed until the next variable display is started. If the value of the special symbol process flag is either 2 or 3 in step S3201 (that is, either the display result designation command transmission process or the special symbol changing process), for the special symbol variation display. The special symbol display control data may be updated. In this case, in order not to cause a discrepancy between the fluctuation time recognized on the game control microcomputer 560 side and the fluctuation time recognized on the effect control microcomputer 100 side, fluctuation also occurs in the display result designation command transmission process. The time timer may be configured to be decremented by 1.

In this embodiment, the case where the special symbol display control data is set in the output buffer according to the value of the special symbol process flag is shown. However, in the special symbol process process, the start flag is set at the start of variation of the special symbol. At the same time, the end flag may be set when the change of the special symbol ends. Then, in the special symbol display control process (step S32), the CPU 56 starts updating the value of the special symbol display control data based on the start flag being set, and based on the end flag being set. The special symbol display control data for stopping and displaying the stop symbol may be set.

Next, the operation of the effect control means will be described. FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing a main process executed by the effect control microcomputer 100 (specifically, the effect control CPU 101) as the effect control means 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 processing, first, initialization processing for clearing the RAM area, setting various initial values, and initializing a timer for determining the activation interval (for example, 4 ms) of effect control is performed (step S701). .. After that, the effect control CPU 101 shifts to the loop processing for monitoring the timer interrupt flag (step S702). When the timer interrupt occurs, the effect control CPU 101 sets the timer interrupt flag in the timer interrupt process. If the timer interrupt flag is set in the main process, the effect control CPU 101 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, and sets a flag according to 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.

Next, the effect control CPU 101 performs a fourth symbol process process (step S706). In the fourth symbol process processing, in each process according to the control state, the process corresponding to the current control state (fourth symbol process flag) is selected, and in the fourth symbol display areas 9c and 9d of the effect display device 9. Display control of the fourth symbol is executed.

Next, a random number updating process for updating the count value of the counter for generating a random number such as a jackpot symbol determining random number is executed (step S707). Then, it transfers to step S702.

FIG. 23 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of a command reception buffer for storing the effect control command received from the game control microcomputer 560 of the main board 31. In this example, a ring buffer type command receiving buffer capable of storing six 2-byte effect control commands is used. Therefore, the command receiving buffer is composed of the 12-byte area of the receiving command buffers 1-12. 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. The ring buffer format is not always required.

The effect control command transmitted from the game control microcomputer 560 is received by the interrupt process based on the effect control INT signal and is stored in the buffer area formed in the RAM. In the command analysis process, which command (see FIGS. 8 and 9) is the effect control command stored in the buffer area is analyzed. The interrupt process based on the effect control INT signal is executed prior to the timer interrupt process executed every 4 ms.

FIG. 24 is a flowchart 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 received command buffer, but in the command analysis process, the effect control CPU 101 confirms the content of the command 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 receiving buffer, the effect control CPU 101 reads the received command from the command receiving buffer (step S612). After reading, the value of the read pointer is incremented by 2 (step S613). The value is incremented by 2 because 2 bytes (1 command) are read out.

If the received effect control command is the variation pattern command (step S614), the effect control CPU 101 stores the received variation pattern command in the variation pattern command storage area formed in the RAM (step S615). Then, the variation pattern command reception flag is set (step S616).

If the received effect control command is a display result specification command (step S617), the effect control CPU 101 forms the received display result specification command (display result 1 specification command to display result 5 specification command) in the RAM. The display result designation command storage area is stored (step S618).

If the received production control command is the symbol confirmation designation command (step S619), the production control CPU 101 sets the confirmation command reception flag (step S620).

If the received production control command is one of the big hit start designation commands (step S621), the effect control CPU 101 sets a big hit start designation command reception flag corresponding to the received big hit start designation command (step S622). Specifically, if the big hit start 1 designation command (command A001(H)) is received, the effect control CPU 101 sets the big hit start 1 designation command reception flag, and the big hit start 2 designation command (command A002( H)) is received, the big hit start 2 designation command reception flag is set, and if the big hit/sudden probability variation big hit start designation command (command A003 (H)) is received, the small hit/sudden probability variation big hit is received. Set the start specification command reception flag.

If the received production control command is one of the big hit end designation commands (step S623), the effect control CPU 101 sets the big hit end designation command reception flag according to the received big hit end designation command (step S624). Specifically, the effect control CPU 101 sets a big hit end 1 designation command reception flag when a big hit end 1 designation command (command A301(H)) is received, and a big hit end 2 designation command (command A302( H)) is received, the big hit end 2 designation command reception flag is set, and if the big hit/sudden probability variation big hit end designation command (command A303(H)) is received, the small hit/sudden probability variation big hit is received. Sets the end designation command reception flag.

If the received effect control command is any other command, the effect control CPU 101 sets a flag according to the received effect control command (step S625). Then, the process proceeds to step S611. For example, the production control CPU 101 sets the first symbol variation designation command reception flag when the first symbol variation designation command is received, and the second symbol variation designation command when the second symbol variation designation command is received. Set the receive flag.

FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing the effect control process process (step S705) in the main process shown in FIG. In the effect control process process, the effect control CPU 101 executes an automatic button setting process for setting whether to enable or disable an auto button function described later (step S710). Then, any one of steps S800 to S807 is performed 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 to realize the variable display of the production symbols, 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. The variable display of the effect symbol synchronized with the change of the first special symbol and the variable display of the effect symbol synchronized with the change of the second special symbol may be configured to be executed by another effect control process process. Good. Further, in this case, it may be possible to determine which special symbol variable display is being executed depending on which effect control process process the variable display of the effect symbol is being executed.

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 pattern variation start processing (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).

Production symbol variation process (step S802): The switching timing of each variation state (variation speed) forming the variation pattern is controlled, and the end of the variation 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 fluctuation stop processing (step S803).

Production symbol variation stop process (step S803): The variation of the production symbol is stopped, and the control of deriving and displaying the display result (stopped symbol) is performed. 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 for notifying the occurrence of big hit on the effect display device 9. 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 ending process (step S807).

Post-round processing (step S806): Display control between rounds is performed. Then, 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 variable pattern command reception waiting process (step S800).

FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing the auto button setting process (step S710) in the effect control process process shown in FIG.

In this embodiment, the “auto button” is a function that executes the process assuming that the push button 120 is operated, although the player does not actually operate the push button 120. In this embodiment, the button advance notice effect is executed during the variable display of the effect symbols, and the advance notice display is displayed based on the detection of the single-shot operation or the repeated hit operation of the push button 120 in the button advance notice effect. When the button function is set to be valid, even if the push button 120 is not operated, the processing is executed assuming that the push button 120 is operated by a single operation or a continuous hit operation in the button advance notice effect, and the advance notice display is performed. indicate. In this embodiment, the single-shot operation means that the push button 120 is operated once, and the continuous hitting operation means that the push button 120 is continuously operated a plurality of times.

Further, in the present embodiment, “automatic continuous hit” actually means that the player continuously presses the push button 120 (long press), but the push button 120 is pressed a plurality of times. It is a function of detecting that the button is continuously pressed (continuously pressed (a state in which the push button 120 is pressed and a state in which the push button 120 is not pressed is repeated a plurality of times)). In this embodiment, when the function of the auto button is invalid, the notice display may be displayed based on the detection of the repeated hitting operation of the push button 120 in the button notice effect, but the push button 120 is pressed and held. In this case, the notice display is displayed as if the repeated tapping operation was detected.

In this embodiment, in addition to the button advance notice effect, a back button advance notice effect that causes the frame LED 28 to emit light in a predetermined mode based on the detection of the operation of the push button 120 during the operation valid period is provided. .. In the button notice production, when the operation valid period is started, a notification for indicating that the operation is valid or for prompting the operation is given, while in the back button notice production, the operation valid period (hereinafter referred to as the button notice production). Even if a special operation valid period is started in order to distinguish it from the operation valid period in (1), no notification is given to indicate that the operation is valid or to prompt the operation. Therefore, in the back button notice presentation, there is a fun way to find and execute the special operation effective period. Due to such characteristics of the back button notice effect, in this embodiment, even if the function of the auto button is set to be valid, if the operation of the push button 120 is not detected during the special operation valid period, It is configured such that the control for causing the frame LED 28 to emit light in a predetermined mode is not performed by the back button advance notice effect.

In this embodiment, by executing the auto button setting process, arbitrary timing (for example, a period during a customer waiting demonstration display, a period during which variable display of effect symbols is displayed, a period during a big hit game) ), it is possible to set whether to enable or disable the function of the auto button based on the operation of the push button 120. In addition, in this embodiment, the automatic continuous hitting function is always effective, but it may be configured to be enabled or disabled like the function of the automatic button.

In the auto button setting process, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the auto button valid flag indicating that the function of the auto button is valid is set (step S7101).

When it is determined that the auto button valid flag is not set (N in step S7101), the effect control CPU 101 sets the operation valid period flag indicating that the operation is valid in the button notice production. It is confirmed whether or not there is any (step S7102). If the flag is set during the operation valid period, the automatic button setting process ends.

When it is determined that the flag during the operation valid period is not set (N in step S7102), the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the long push operation of the push button is detected (step S7103). If the long press operation of the push button is not detected, the auto button setting process ends. Regarding whether or not a long press operation of the push button is detected, for example, in a timer interrupt, an operation detection flag is set when the push operation of the push button 120 is detected, and an operation detection flag is detected when the push operation is not detected. Is configured to be reset, the operation detection flag is set, and when the state in which the push operation of the push button 120 is detected continues for a predetermined period, it is determined that the long press operation is detected. You can

When the long push operation of the push button is detected (Y in step S7103), the effect control CPU 101 sets the auto button valid flag (step S7104).

Next, the effect control CPU 101 performs control to display on the effect display device 9 an auto button enable display indicating that the function of the auto button is enabled (step S7105). Further, the effect control CPU 101 performs control for outputting an auto button effective sound effect indicating that the function of the auto button is effective (step S7106). In addition, the effect control CPU 101 controls the push button LED 20 to emit light in a special light emission mode (e.g., red light emission) different from the normal light emission mode (e.g., white light emission) (step S7107).

When it is determined that the auto button effective flag is set (Y in step S7101), the effect control CPU 101 sets the special operation effective period flag indicating that the special operation effective period in the back button notice effect is in effect. It is confirmed whether or not it is set (step S7108). If the special operation valid period flag is set, the automatic button setting process ends.

When it is determined that the flag during the special operation valid period is not set (N in step S7108), the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not a setting menu display flag, which will be described later, is set (step S7109). ), and if it is set, the automatic button setting process ends.

When the setting menu display flag is not set (N in step S7109), the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the push button pressing operation (single-shot operation) is detected (step S7110). If the push button pressing operation (single-shot operation) is not detected, the automatic button setting process ends.

When the push button pressing operation (single-shot operation) is detected (Y in step S7110), the effect control CPU 101 resets the auto button valid flag (step S7111).

Next, the effect control CPU 101 performs control to display on the effect display device 9 an automatic button invalidation display indicating that the function of the automatic button is invalid (step S7112). Further, the effect control CPU 101 performs control to output an auto button invalid effect sound (a sound effect different from the auto button valid effect sound) indicating that the function of the auto button is invalid (step S7113). In addition, the effect control CPU 101 controls the push button LED 20 to emit light in the normal light emission mode (step S7114).

In this embodiment, by executing the auto button setting process shown in FIG. 26, the function of the auto button can be set to be valid or invalid at an arbitrary timing. Specifically, the player can set the auto button function to be valid by long-pressing the push button 120 when the function of the auto button is invalid (see steps S7101, S7103, and S7104). ), if the push button 120 is pressed (single-shot operation) while the auto button function is enabled, the auto button function can be disabled (see steps S7101, S7110, and S7111). With such a configuration, it is possible to easily change the setting of the auto button function not only during the period in which the customer waiting demonstration is being displayed, but also during the period during which variable display of the effect symbols is being performed or during the big hit game. You can That is, it is possible to easily change the setting of the automatic button function without temporarily interrupting the game, and it is possible to prevent the interest from being lowered due to the interruption.

However, in this embodiment, an exceptional period is provided during which the setting change of the auto button function is not accepted. For example, when the function of the auto button is disabled, a long press operation may be performed to display the notice display during the operation valid period in the button notice effect. When the setting of the function is changed, the setting change which the player does not intend is made. Therefore, in this embodiment, when the operation valid period flag is set, that is, during the operation valid period in the button notice effect, even if the long press operation of the push button 120 is detected, the automatic button The function is configured not to be changed from disabled to enabled (see step S7102). With such a configuration, it is possible to prevent unintended setting change of the function of the auto button.

It should be noted that during the special operation effective period in the back button notice effect, and during the operation effective period in the decided button effect described later, predetermined control is performed based on the detection of the pressing operation (single-shot operation). Does not require a long press. However, since it is assumed that the intention to perform a single-shot operation is a long press operation as a result, in step S7102, it is during the special operation effective period in the back button notice effect or during the operation effective period in the set button effect. In this case (that is, when the special operation valid period flag or the determination button effect period flag described later is set), even if the long-press operation of the push button 120 is detected, the function of the auto button is disabled and enabled. It may be configured not to be changed to. Similarly, a single-shot operation of the push button 120 may be performed in order to change the setting related to the effect from a setting menu to be described later, but it is expected that the single-shot operation will be a long-press operation. In step S7102, even when the setting menu display flag indicating that the setting menu is being displayed is set and the long press operation of the push button 120 is detected, the function of the auto button is changed from disabled to enabled. It may be configured not to change.

Further, in this embodiment, even if the function of the auto button is effective, in order to execute the back button advance notice effect, the push operation of the push button 120 must be performed. Therefore, an operation for executing the back button advance notice effect may be performed during the special operation valid period in the back button advance notice effect. Therefore, when the flag during the special operation effective period is set, that is, during the special operation effective period in the back button notice effect, even if the push operation of the push button 120 is detected, the function of the auto button is not effective. It is configured not to be changed to invalid (see step S7108). With such a configuration, it is possible to prevent unintended setting change of the function of the auto button.

Further, in this embodiment, the push button 120 may be pressed to set the auto button or the background image from the setting menu described later. Therefore, in this embodiment, when the setting menu display flag is set, that is, when the setting of the auto button or the setting of the background image is performed from the setting menu, the push operation of the push button 120 is detected. Even so, the function of the auto button is not changed from valid to invalid (see step S7109). With such a configuration, it is possible to prevent unintended setting change of the function of the auto button.

Further, in this embodiment, the button advance notice effect is started when the function of the auto button is set to be valid, and when the player operates the push button 120 in accordance with the button advance notice effect, the automatic operation is performed. The function of the button is changed from valid to invalid (for example, realized by the processing of steps S7101, S7108 to S7111), and the detection result is reflected in the button notice effect (for example, the processing of steps S8113 to S8144A is executed. Will be configured). With such a configuration, even if the function of the auto button is set to be effective, if the player wants to perform an operation, the operation can be immediately reflected in the effect.

In this embodiment, the button advance notice effect is started when the function of the auto button is set to be valid, and as soon as the player operates the push button 120 according to the button advance notice effect, the push button 120 is immediately activated. The function of the auto button is changed from enabled to disabled, and the detection result is configured to be reflected in the button notice production, but the configuration is not limited to such a configuration, and, for example, when the button notice production is being executed, The function of the auto button may be changed from the valid state to the invalid state after the button notice production is finished without changing the setting of the button function. Such a configuration can be realized by executing the following processing, for example. When the operation of the push button 120 is detected in step S7110, the effect control CPU 101 executes the processing of steps S7111 to S7114 if the operation is not in the operation valid period of the button notice effect, and the function of the auto button is in the operation effective period. The process of setting the auto button change suspension flag indicating that the process of suspending from changing from valid to invalid is suspended, and the auto button setting process is terminated without executing the processes of steps S7111 to S7114. If the auto button change suspension flag is set at the end of the button notice effect (for example, the timing at which the notice display is displayed or the end timing of the operation valid period), the effect control CPU 101 functions as the auto button. Changes from valid to invalid (that is, the auto button valid flag is reset and the auto button change pending flag is reset). Note that regarding such a configuration in which the setting change of the auto button function is temporarily suspended, a button notice production A and a button notice production B in which a notice display is displayed based on the detection of the repeated hit operation of the push button 120. And the button notice effect C in which the notice display is displayed based on the detection of the single operation of the push button 120, or both.

Further, when the player operates the push button 120 according to the button advance notice effect, after the button advance notice effect is finished, the function of the auto button is changed from valid to invalid. For example, in addition to the case where the operation of the push button 120 is detected at predetermined intervals by the function of the auto button, the fact that the push button 120 is actually operated by the player is detected and reflected in the effect. May be. That is, the continuous hitting operation by the auto button and the operation actually performed may be reflected in the effect. With such a configuration, for example, immediately before step S8147, when the automatic button change suspension flag is set, it is confirmed whether or not the operation of the push button 120 is detected, and if it is detected, Is realized by executing a process of subtracting 1 from the value of the operation number counter. Further, for example, immediately before step S8169, it is also realized by checking whether or not the automatic button change suspension flag is set, and if it is set, executing the processing of shifting to step S8170.

In addition, for example, when the push button 120 is configured to be deformable and the push button 120 is deformed into a shape different from the normal state in accordance with a predetermined effect (that is, the effect accompanied by the deformation of the push button 120 is being executed. Also, even if the push operation of the push button 120 is detected, the setting of the auto button may not be changed. This is because, for example, when the push button 120 is deformed to strongly urge the operation, there is a possibility that there is no intention to change the setting even if the operation is performed. When the push button 120 is deformed into a shape different from that in the normal state, for example, when the button portion is deformed so as to project to the player side more than in the normal state, or is combined in the normal state. If the button part is split, if multiple button part parts are combined to form a single button part, it can be rotated (for example, it can rotate around a vertical rotation axis). Possible, or rotatable about a horizontal axis of rotation) Also included when the button is rotating.

FIG. 27 is a flowchart showing the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800) in the effect control process process shown in FIG. In the variation pattern command reception waiting process, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the variation pattern command reception flag is set (step S811). If the fluctuation pattern command reception flag is set, the fluctuation pattern command reception flag is reset (step S812). Further, if a setting menu screen to be described later is displayed on the effect display device 9, the effect control CPU 101 erases the setting menu screen (step S813). If the effect control CPU 101 is set, the setting menu display flag, which will be described later, is reset (step S814). Then, the effect control CPU 101 updates the value of the effect control process flag to a value corresponding to the effect design variation start process (step S801) (step S815). As described above, in this embodiment, the display result designation command is also transmitted when the power is restored (see step S44). However, as shown in FIG. Based on the receipt of the variation pattern command, it shifts to the effect symbol variation start processing and starts the variation display of the effect symbol, so the variation of the effect symbol is only received by the display result designation command without receiving the variation pattern command. The display does not start.

If the variation pattern command reception flag is not set, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the setting menu display flag indicating that the setting menu screen is being displayed is set (step S816). If the setting menu display flag is not set, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the operation of the stick controller 122 is detected (step S817). Note that whether or not the operation of the stick controller 122 is detected can be specifically determined by checking whether or not an operation detection signal is input from the tilt direction sensor unit 123. If the operation of the stick controller 122 is detected, the effect control CPU 101 sets a setting menu for setting whether to enable or disable the function of the auto button and the background image on the display screen of the effect display device 9. The screen is displayed on the effect display device 9 (step S819), and the setting menu display flag is set (step S820).

In addition, in this embodiment, when the processing of steps S817 to S820 is executed, the stick controller 122 is operated during a period during which the effect symbols are not being displayed in a variable display (for example, during a customer waiting demonstration display). The display of the setting menu screen is started, and it is possible to set whether to enable or disable the function of the auto button and to set the background image on the display screen of the effect display device 9.

If the setting menu display flag is set in step S816 (that is, if the setting menu screen is already being displayed), the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the operation of the stick controller 122 is detected ( Step S821). When the operation of the stick controller 122 is detected, the effect control CPU 101 follows the operation of the stick controller 122, and indicates a setting item selected on the setting menu screen (for example, the cursor 200 in FIG. 42(4)). ) Is displayed (step S822). In step S822, for example, when an operation of tilting the stick controller 122 to the right is detected, the cursor is moved to the setting item located on the right side of the selected setting item (see FIGS. 42(4) and (5)), and the stick is moved. When the operation of tilting the controller 122 to the front is detected, the cursor is moved from the setting item being selected to the setting item located on the lower side (see FIGS. 42(6) and (7)).

When the operation of the stick controller 122 is not detected (N of step S821), the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the pressing operation of the push button 120 is detected (step S823). If the push operation of the push button 120 has been detected, the effect control CPU 101 causes the setting menu screen to display setting items related to the setting of the auto button (for example, “valid” and “invalid” shown in FIG. 42(6)). ) Is indicated (Y in step S824), the auto button valid flag is set or reset according to the setting item indicated by the cursor (step S825). Specifically, when the push operation of the push button 120 is detected, if the cursor indicates “valid” among the setting items related to the auto button, the auto button valid flag is set and “invalid” is indicated. For example, the auto button valid flag is reset.

Further, in the setting menu screen, if the cursor points to a setting item related to the setting of the background image (for example, “A”, “B”, and “C” shown in FIG. 42(7)) (Y in step S826), The effect control CPU 101 sets the background image according to the setting item pointed by the cursor (step S827). Specifically, when the push operation of the push button 120 is detected, the background image A is set if the cursor indicates "A" among the setting items of the background image, and the background is set if "B" is indicated. The image B is set, and if "C" is indicated, the background image C is set. In the present embodiment, the effect display device 9 performs variable display of effect symbols with any of the selected background screens A to C as the background.

Further, in the setting menu screen, when neither the setting item regarding the setting of the auto button nor the setting item regarding the setting of the background image is indicated, that is, when the “setting end” (refer to FIG. 42) is indicated, the effect control is performed. The CPU 101 erases the setting menu screen and resets the setting menu display flag (steps S828 and S829).

In this embodiment, by executing the processing of steps S816 to S829, a setting menu screen is displayed on the effect display device 9 during the period during which the effect symbols are not being displayed in a variable display (for example, during the customer waiting demonstration display). It is configured to be displayed and to enable or disable the function of the auto button, and to set any of a plurality of types of background images on the display screen of the effect display device 9.

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 processing, the effect control CPU 101 first reads a variation pattern command from the variation pattern command storage area (step S8000). Next, the effect control CPU 101 displays the effect design display result (stop) according to the variation pattern command read in step S8000 and the data (that is, the received display result specification command) stored in the display result specification command storage area. (Symbol) is determined (step S8001). That is, the CPU 101 for effect control executes the process of step S8001, so that the display result of the variable display of the identification information (the stop of the effect symbol) is performed according to the variable display pattern (variation pattern) determined by the variable display pattern determination means. A display result determining means for determining (pattern) is realized. When the pseudo pattern is designated by the variation pattern command, the effect control CPU 101 determines in step S8001 that a chance eye symbol (for example, “223” or “445”) as a temporary stop symbol in the pseudo sequence. , Which is not a reach, but also a combination of a big hit symbol and a symbol that is offset by one symbol). The effect control CPU 101 stores data indicating the determined stop symbol of the effect symbol in the effect symbol display result storage area. In step S8001, the effect control CPU 101 may determine whether or not it is a big hit based on the received variation pattern command, and may determine the stop symbol of the effect symbol based only on the variation pattern command. ..

FIG. 29 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a stop symbol of the effect symbol in the effect display device 9. In the example shown in FIG. 29, when the received display result designation command indicates "normal big hit" (when the received display result designation command is the display result 2 designation command), the effect control CPU 101 stops. As a design, the combination of the effect designs in which the three designs are the same even number is determined. Moreover, when the received display result designation command indicates "probable variation big hit" (when the received display result designation command is the display result 3 designation command), the effect control CPU 101 determines that the three symbols are the stop symbols. A combination of effect symbols arranged with the same odd number symbols is determined.

Further, when the received display result designation command indicates "suddenly sudden change big hit" or "small hit" (when the received display result designation command is the display result 4 designation command or the display result 5 designation command), The effect control CPU 101 determines a combination of effect symbols such as "135" as the stop symbol. Then, in the case of "disappearance" (when the received display result designation command is the display result 1 designation command), a combination of effect symbols other than the above is determined. However, when the reach effect is involved, a combination of effect symbols having two left and right symbols is determined. Further, the combination of the three symbols derived and displayed on the effect display device 9 is the "stop symbol" of the effect symbol.

The production control CPU 101 extracts, for example, a random number for determining a stop design, and uses a stop design determination table in which data indicating a combination of production designs and numerical values are associated with each other to determine the stop design of the production design. decide. That is, the stop symbol is determined by selecting the data indicating the combination of the effect symbols corresponding to the numerical values that match the extracted random numbers.

As for the effect symbols, a stop symbol (a combination of symbols in which the left, middle and right sides are all the same symbol) that reminds of a big hit is called a big hit symbol. In addition, a stop design that reminds the user of disengagement is called a disengagement design. In addition, a symbol (in this embodiment, an odd symbol) that evokes a probability variation state is also called a probability variation symbol, and a symbol (in this embodiment, an even symbol) that evokes that the probability variation state does not occur is a non-certain variation symbol. Also called.

Next, the effect control CPU 101 determines whether or not to execute various notice effects on the effect display device 9 during the variable display of effect symbols, and executes the notice effect setting process for setting the effect mode of the notice effect ( Step S8002). In this embodiment, as will be described later, in the notice effect setting process, a button notice effect and a back button notice effect that are accompanied by an operation by the push button 120 are set. In addition to the button notice effect and the back button notice effect, other notice effects such as a step-up notice effect, a mini-character notice effect, and a movable object notice effect using a movable member may be configured to be executable.

Next, the effect control CPU 101 selects a process table corresponding to the notice effect when executing the variation pattern and the notice effect (step S8003). Then, the process timer in the process data 1 of the selected process table is started (step S8004).

FIG. 30 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of the process table. The process table is a table in which process data that the production control CPU 101 refers to when performing control of the production device is set. That is, the effect control CPU 101 controls the effect 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, 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. 30 is stored in the ROM of the effect control board 80. Further, the process table is prepared according to each variation pattern.

When it is determined to execute the notice effect, the effect control CPU 101 selects the process table corresponding to the notice effect in step S8003.

In the process table used when performing effect control for a variation pattern involving reach effect, the left symbol is stopped and displayed when a predetermined time has elapsed from the start of variation, and the right symbol is stopped when the predetermined time has elapsed. Process data indicating display is set. It should be noted that instead of setting the symbols to be stopped and displayed in the process table, the images for displaying the symbols are synthesized and generated in accordance with the determined stop symbols, the temporary stop symbols in the pseudo-relation and the sliding effect. May be.

In addition, the effect control CPU 101, 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, effect parts as effect parts). The control of the various lamps and the speaker 27) as an effect part is executed (step S8005). For example, a command is output to the VDP 109 to display an image 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.

In this embodiment, the effect control CPU 101 performs control so that the effect pattern is variably displayed in a change pattern corresponding to the change pattern command in a one-to-one manner. The variation pattern to be used may be selected from a plurality of types of variation patterns corresponding to.

Next, the effect control CPU 101 sets the variation time timer to a value corresponding to the variation time specified by the variation pattern command (step S8006).

Then, the effect control CPU 101 sets the value of the effect control process flag to a value corresponding to the effect during the effect of the effect design process (step S802) (step S8007).

FIG. 31 is a flowchart showing the notice effect setting process (step S8002) in the effect symbol variation start process. In the notice production setting process, the effect control CPU 101 first performs a lottery process based on a random number using a button notice production determination table for determining the presence and type of the button notice production to determine whether the button notice production is present or not. Is determined (step S6501).

32A and 32B are explanatory diagrams showing a specific example of the button advance notice effect determination table. Of these, FIG. 32(A) shows a specific example of the button advance notice effect determination table used in the case of failure. In addition, FIG. 32B shows a specific example of the button notice effect determination table used in the case of a big hit. As shown in FIGS. 32A and 32B, in the button notice effect determination table, “button notice effect A”, “button notice effect B”, “button notice effect C”, and “no execution”. A judgment value is assigned to each of and.

In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 32(A) and 32(B), as a button notice effect, a notice display (e.g., "heat!" "Button advance notice effect A" and "Button advance notice effect B" in which a character string such as "Chance!" is displayed, and an advance notice display based on the detection of a single operation of the push button 120 ((for example, character A or character "Button notice effect C" in which B) is displayed is provided.

In the “button notice effect A” and the “button notice effect B”, when the operation valid period is started, a gauge display corresponding to the number of times the push button 120 is operated is displayed, and each time the operation of the push button 120 is detected. , The display is updated so that the scale of the gauge display is reduced by one. Then, when the number of times the operation is detected reaches a predetermined number (that is, when the scale on the gauge display becomes 0), it is determined that the operation condition is satisfied, and an advance notice is displayed (for example, "Extreme heat!" or "Chance!" Character string) is displayed. Further, in the “button notice effect C”, when the operation of the push button 120 is detected once during the operation valid period, it is determined that the operation condition is satisfied, and the notice display (for example, the character A or the character B) is displayed. Is displayed.

Further, in this embodiment, when the function of the auto button is invalid and the execution of the button advance notice effect A is determined, the long press operation of the push button 120 is started during the execution of the button advance notice effect. , 4 seconds after the long press operation is started, the detection by the automatic continuous hit is started, and the number of operations by the push button 120 is increased by 1 every 1.0 second during the detection by the automatic continuous hit. Treated as. When execution of the button advance notice effect B is determined, if the long press operation of the push button 120 is started during the execution of the button advance notice effect, the automatic operation is performed when 2 seconds have elapsed after the long press operation was started. The detection by repeated hits is started, and during the detection by automatic continuous hits, the number of operations by the push button 120 is treated as increasing by one every 0.5 seconds. It should be noted that, regardless of whether the button advance notice effect A or the button advance notice effect B is executed, when the normal continuous tapping operation of the push button 120 is performed, each time the push operation of the push button 120 is detected. It is treated as if the number of operations was increased by one.

Further, if the function of the auto button is valid, when the button advance notice effect A is executed, 1.0 second has elapsed from the start of the operation valid period even if the push button 120 is not long pressed. Each time the push button 120 is operated, the number of operations is increased by one. Further, when the button advance notice effect B is executed, even if the push button 120 is not pressed for a long time, the number of operations by the push button 120 is changed every 0.5 seconds from the start of the operation valid period. It is treated as an increase once. Further, as will be described in detail later, when the button advance notice effect C is executed, even if the push button 120 is not operated, a predetermined timing in the middle of the operation effective period (for example, the operation effective period is 6 seconds). When 3 seconds have elapsed from the start of the operation valid period), the push button 120 is treated as having been operated once (see FIG. 33B).

Not limited to the example shown in FIG. 32, for example, the automatic continuous hit start time and the automatic continuous hit detection period may be selected from a plurality of options at different rates depending on whether or not a big hit has occurred. For example, when the display result is a big hit, the automatic continuous hit start time is determined to be 0 seconds at a rate of 50%, 2 seconds at a rate of 50%, and 70% when the display result is out of alignment. May be set to 0 seconds, and 30% to 2 seconds. Also, the automatic continuous hit detection interval is determined to be 0.5 seconds at a rate of 70% and 1 second at a rate of 30% when the display result is a big hit, and when the display result is off, The ratio may be set to 0.5 seconds at a rate of 50% and 1 second at a rate of 50%. In addition, depending on whether it is a big hit or not, for the configuration to select the automatic continuous hit start time and the automatic continuous hit detection period from a plurality of options at different rates, either automatic continuous hit by the auto button function or automatic continuous hit by long press operation It may be applied to only or both.

In step S6501, the effect control CPU 101 determines whether or not it is a big hit. In this case, for example, the effect control CPU 101, the display result designation command stored in the display result designation command storage area (see step S618), the display result 2 designation command or the display result 3 designation command indicating the normal big hit or the probability variation big hit. By confirming whether or not it is a big hit, it can be determined.

In the case of the deviation, the effect control CPU 101 selects the button announcement effect determination table for the deviation shown in FIG. In the case of a big hit, the effect control CPU 101 selects the big hit button notice effect determination table shown in FIG. 32(B). Then, the effect control CPU 101 performs a lottery process based on a random number using the selected button advance notice effect determination table, and determines the presence or absence and the type of the button advance notice effect.

In this embodiment, in the case of a sudden change big hit or a small hit, the button notice effect determination table for outlier shown in FIG. 32(A) is selected to determine the presence and type of the button notice effect. I shall. In the case of a sudden probability big hit or a small hit, the button notice effect determination table for the big hit shown in FIG. A table may be provided.

As shown in FIGS. 32(A) and 32(B), in this embodiment, the expectation (reliability) for the big hit is high in the order of button notice effect A>button notice effect B>button notice effect C.

In addition, in this embodiment, in the button advance notice effect A and the button advance notice effect B, character strings such as “excited heat!” and “chance!” are displayed as the advance notice display. Compared with the button notice production B, the character string "Geki Hetsu!" is displayed more frequently as the notice display. Further, the button advance notice effect B has a higher rate of displaying the character string of “chance!” as the advance notice display than the button advance notice effect A. In other words, the expectation (reliability) for the big hit is higher when the character string “intense heat” is displayed as the notice display than when the character string “chance!” is displayed. It should be noted that, in the case of the button notice effect A, "intense heat!" may be displayed at a rate of 100%, and in the case of the button notice effect B, "a chance!" may be displayed at a rate of 100%. ..

Further, in this embodiment, in the button notice production C, the character A or the character B is displayed as the notice display, but in the case of a big hit, the character A is displayed more frequently than the character B. That is, as the notice display of the button notice effect C, the character A is displayed with higher expectation (reliability) for the jackpot than the case where the character B is displayed.

The notice display of the button notice effect may be determined in advance in the notice effect setting process, or when the operation condition is satisfied, a lottery may be performed to determine which notice display to display. ..

In addition, in this embodiment, the case where three types of button notice effect A, button notice effect B, and button notice effect C are provided as the types of button notice effect, but only such an aspect is possible. Instead, for example, four or more types of button notice effects may be provided. Further, in this embodiment, a button advance notice effect determination table for out-of-range and a button advance notice effect determination table for jackpot are provided, but the present invention is not limited to such a configuration, and a button advance notice effect determination table for each variation pattern. May be provided so that the presence/absence of execution of the button advance notice effect and the proportion of the types are different from each other.

Further, in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 32, regardless of whether the button advance notice effect A or the button advance notice effect B is executed, if the long press operation is performed, the operation by the automatic repeated hits can be detected. Although the case where it is configured to be performed is shown, it is not limited to such a mode, and for example, a type of button advance notice effect that does not detect the operation by the automatic continuous hit even if the long press operation is performed should be provided. You may comprise. For example, in the case of providing a type of effect that the player wants to participate in the operation as much as possible, for example, by configuring so as to recognize whether or not the jackpot is a big hit depending on the result of the continuous operation of the push button 120, the long press operation is performed. Even if it is performed, the operation may not be detected by automatic continuous hitting.

When the effect control CPU 101 determines to execute the button advance notice effect (Y in step S6502), the determined type of the button advance notice effect (button advance notice effect A, button advance notice effect B) is provided in the RAM. The data is stored in the designated storage area (step S6503).

Next, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the variation pattern has super reach (step S6504), and if the variation pattern has super reach, determines the type of the back button notice effect. A lottery process based on a random number is performed using the back button preview effect determination table to determine the type of back button preview effect (step S6505), and the determined back button preview effect type is stored in a predetermined storage area provided in the RAM. (Step S6506). In this embodiment, when the super reach is performed, the back button advance notice effect is always executed after the super reach is started. However, since the back button advance notice effect does not indicate that the operation is valid or does not notify the user of the operation, it does not indicate that the special operation effective period in the back button notice effect has started. Further, even if the auto button function is valid, the frame LED 28 does not emit light in the predetermined mode due to the back button advance notice effect unless the push operation of the push button 120 is detected during the special operation valid period.

32C and 32D are explanatory diagrams showing specific examples of the back button advance notice effect determination table. Of these, FIG. 32(C) shows a specific example of the back button advance notice effect determination table used in the case of failure. Further, FIG. 32D shows a specific example of the back button advance notice effect determination table used in the case of a big hit. As shown in FIGS. 32C and 32D, in the back button notice effect determination table, "back button notice effect A", "back button notice effect B", and "back button notice effect C" are included. A determination value is assigned to each of "back button notice effect D".

In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 32C and 32D, execution of the back button advance notice effect A is determined, and the pressing operation of the push button 120 is detected during the special operation effective period of the back button advance notice effect A. Then, the frame LED 28 is controlled to emit white light. Further, when the execution of the back button advance notice effect B is determined and the pressing operation of the push button 120 is detected during the special operation valid period of the back button advance notice effect B, the control for causing the frame LED 28 to emit blue light is performed. Further, when the execution of the back button advance notice effect C is determined and the pressing operation of the push button 120 is detected during the special operation effective period of the back button advance notice effect C, the frame LED 28 is controlled to emit green light. Further, when the execution of the back button advance notice effect D is determined and the pressing operation of the push button 120 is detected during the special operation valid period of the back button advance notice effect D, the control for causing the frame LED 28 to emit red light is performed.

In this embodiment, when the push operation of the push button 120 is detected during the special operation valid period of the back button advance notice effect, the frame LED 28 is changed to a light emission mode corresponding to a predetermined type of the back button advance notice effect. Although the light emission control is performed, the configuration is not limited to such a configuration, and the light emission mode may be changed stepwise when the push operation of the push button 120 is detected, for example. .. Specifically, when the execution of the back button advance notice effect D is determined, when the first pressing operation of the push button 120 is detected during the special operation effective period of the back button advance notice effect D, the frame LED 28 becomes white. When the light emission control is performed and the second press operation of the push button 120 is detected, the frame LED 28 is controlled to emit blue light, and when the third push button 120 is detected, the frame LED 28 is detected. The control of causing the LED 28 to emit green light may be performed, and when the fourth pressing operation of the push button 120 is detected, the control of causing the frame LED 28 to emit red light may be performed. In such a case, even if the long press operation of the push button 120 is detected, the automatic continuous hit may not function. That is, when the execution of the back button advance notice effect D is determined, the light emitting mode of the frame LED 28 may not be changed to red unless the push button 120 is pressed four times. Further, even in such a case, when the automatic continuous hitting by the long press operation of the push button 120 is configured to function, the long press operation of the push button 120 is detected during the special operation effective period of the back button notice effect. However, the function of the auto button may not be changed from disabled to enabled.

As shown in FIGS. 32(C) and 32(D), in this embodiment, the degree of expectation for a big hit in the order of back button preview effect D> back button preview effect C> back button preview effect B> back button preview effect A in this order. (Reliability) is high.

In step S6505, the effect control CPU 101 determines whether or not it is a big hit. Then, in the case of the loss, the effect control CPU 101 selects the back button advance notice effect determination table for the loss shown in FIG. 32(C). In the case of a big hit, the effect control CPU 101 selects the back button notice effect determination table for big hits shown in FIG. 32(D). Then, the effect control CPU 101 performs a lottery process based on a random number using the selected button back notice effect determination table, and determines the type of the back button notice effect.

In this embodiment, in the case of sudden probability big hit or small hit, the back button advance notice effect determination table for outlier shown in FIG. 32(C) is selected to determine the type of the back button advance notice effect. I shall. In the case of sudden probability big hit or small hit, the back button notice production determination table for big hit shown in FIG. 32(D) may be selected. Alternatively, the sudden button big hit or small hit special back button notice may be selected. A performance determination table may be provided.

Further, in this embodiment, the case where four types of back button advance notice effects are provided is shown, but the present invention is not limited to such an aspect, and for example, there are less than three types or five or more types of back button advance notice effects. May be provided.

Here, the execution timing of each effect will be described. FIG. 33A is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of the execution timing of each effect. Note that the button notice effects A to C, the back button notice effect, and the decision button effect are all effects that perform predetermined control based on the detection of the operation of the push button 120, but in FIG. The operation valid period in each effect is shown as the execution timing. Further, the hit/not-notice is executed at the detected timing when the push operation of the push button 120 is detected during the valid operation period of the set button effect, and when the function of the auto button is valid, the push notification is given. Even if the pressing operation of the button 120 is not detected, it is executed immediately before the end of the operation valid period (for example, when the operation valid period is 10 seconds, 9 seconds have elapsed from the start of the operation valid period), and the function of the auto button is performed. Is invalid, and if the push operation of the push button 120 is not detected during the operation valid period, it is executed at the end of the operation valid period as shown in FIG.

As shown in FIG. 33(A), the button advance notice effect A, the button advance notice effect B, and the button advance notice effect C are all executed in the period from the start of variation to the start of super reach.

As shown in FIG. 33(A), the back button advance notice effect is executed immediately after the start of the super reach effect, and the final button effect is executed at the final stage of the super reach effect. In addition, the decision button effect is a notification of success or failure based on the fact that a notification prompting an operation is performed at the start of the operation valid period and a pressing operation (single operation) of the push button 120 is detected during the operation valid period. , Is an effect of displaying a win/loss display indicating whether or not it is a big hit. Further, in this embodiment, the decision button effect is always executed when the super reach is executed. Note that the decision button effect is not limited to the configuration of displaying the hit/miss display, and for example, the accessory may be operated in the case of a big hit, and the accessory may not be operated in the case of a hit.

It should be noted that, in this embodiment, when the super reach effect is executed, the back button advance notice effect is always executed, but the present invention is not limited to such a configuration, and for example, the back button advance effect is also performed. Whether or not to execute and the execution timing (that is, the special operation effective period) when executing may be selected from a plurality of determinations.

Next, the timing for satisfying the operation condition of each effect when the auto button is enabled will be described. FIG. 33(B) is an explanatory diagram showing the timings at which the operating conditions for each effect are established when the auto button is enabled. In this embodiment, similarly to the button notice effects A to C, if the function of the auto button is valid, the operation conditions of the set button effects are also determined at a predetermined timing even if the operation of the push button 120 is not detected. As a result, a predetermined display is displayed.

Here, the button notice effect C and the decided button effect are compared. In both the button notice effect C and the decided button effect, a notification that prompts an operation is performed at the start of the operation valid period, and a predetermined display is performed based on the detection of a single operation of the push button 120 during the operation valid period. While the button advance notice effect C is an effect that gives an advance notice of the degree of expectation (reliability) for a big hit, the decided button effect is an effect that definitely shows whether or not it is a big hit. Therefore, the decided button effect is an effect having higher importance or attention than the button notice effect C. Therefore, in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 33(B), when the function of the auto button is effective, the button notice effect C is in the middle of the operation effective period (for example, the operation effective period is 6 seconds). Is set so that the operation condition is satisfied at the time when 3 seconds have elapsed from the start of the operation effective period), and the decision button effect is immediately before the end of the operation effective period (for example, when the operation effective period is 10 seconds, the operation effective period is The operation condition is established at the timing (9 seconds after the start of). With such a configuration, it is possible to execute the processing by the auto button according to the degree of importance and the degree of attention of the effect, and it is possible to enhance the effect of the effect. Specifically, by shortening the execution period of the button notice effect C having low importance or attention, the effect is prevented from becoming redundant, and the execution period of the decided button effect having high importance or attention By lengthening, the feeling of expectation can be maintained and the effect of production can be improved. The operation valid period may be the same for the button notice effect C and the decided button effect.

Note that the execution timing of each effect is not limited to the example shown in FIG. 33(A), and may be any timing except for the decision button effect. Further, in the example shown in FIG. 33(B), the timing of establishment of the operation condition is delayed in the order of high expectation (reliability) for the big hit, that is, in the order of button advance notice effect A, button advance notice effect B, and button advance notice effect C. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and for example, the timing of establishment of the operation condition may be earlier in the descending order of expectation (reliability) for the big hit. In addition, the timing at which the operation condition is satisfied may be different depending on the timing at which the effect is executed. For example, in the case of an effect that is executed before the reach is established, the timing at which the operation condition is established may be earlier or later than the effect that is executed after the reach is established.

34 to 38 are flowcharts showing the effect in the effect control process process (step S802) during fluctuation of effect symbol. In the effect symbol changing process, the effect control CPU 101 first subtracts 1 from the value of the process timer (step S8101) and also subtracts 1 from the value of the variable time timer (step S8102). When the process timer times out (step S8103), the process data is switched. That is, the process timer set value set next in the process table is set in the process timer (step S8104). Further, the control state for the effect device is changed based on the display control execution data, the lamp control execution data, and the sound number data set next (step S8105).

Next, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the operation valid period flag indicating that the operation is in the button advance notice effect is set (step S8106). If the flag during the operation valid period is not set (that is, not during the operation valid period in the button notice effect), the effect control CPU 101 determines to execute the button notice effect in the notice effect setting process (see step S8002). If so, it is confirmed whether or not it is the start timing of the operation valid period in the button announcement effect (step S8107). Whether or not it is the start timing of the operation valid period can be specifically determined by checking the value of the variation time timer set in step S8006 of the effect symbol variation start processing. If it is not the start timing of the operation valid period, the process proceeds to step S8138.

If it is the start timing of the operation valid period, the effect control CPU 101 sets a predetermined value (for example, 10) to the operation number counter for counting the number of operations of the push button 120 during the operation valid period of the button advance notice effect. It is set (step S8108). In this embodiment, the push button 120 is repeatedly hit or held for a predetermined number of times (for example, 10 times) during the operation valid period of the button foretelling effect (for example, 20 seconds from the start of the button foretelling effect). When it reaches, the notice display is displayed by determining that the operation condition is satisfied, but in step S8108, a value (for example, 10) corresponding to a predetermined number of times for satisfying the operation condition is the operation number counter. Is set to. In this embodiment, in the case of the button notice effect C, the notice display is displayed based on the single operation of the push button 120, and in this case, the number of times of operation to satisfy the operation condition is one. The value to be set is set in the operation counter.

Next, the effect control CPU 101 controls the effect display device 9 to start displaying a gauge display according to the value of the operation number counter (step S8109). For example, in step S8109, based on the value of the operation number counter being a predetermined value (for example, 10), the display of the gauge display is started in the mode showing the full state. Then, the effect control CPU 101 sets a flag during the operation valid period (step S8110).

By performing the processing of steps S8107 to S8110, at the start timing of the operation valid period in the button advance notice effect, the execution of the button advance notice effect is started, and the detection of the operation by the push button 120 is started.

Next, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the pressing operation of the push button 120 is detected (step S8111). Whether or not the pressing operation of the push button 120 is detected can be specifically determined by checking whether or not an operation detection signal is input from the push sensor 124. If the push operation of the push button 120 is detected (that is, if the push button 120 has already been pressed at the start of the button advance notice effect), the effect control CPU 101 determines that the type of the button advance notice effect is. It is confirmed whether or not it is the button notice effect C (step S8111A). If it is the button notice effect C, the process proceeds to step S8144. In the case of the button notice production C, the notice display is displayed based on the detection of the single operation of the push button 120. Therefore, when the notice is displayed in step S8111, the process proceeds to step S8144 to display the notice display. Perform the display process. When it is not the button notice effect C, the effect control CPU 101 sets the operation detection flag (step S8112). Then, the process proceeds to step S8138.

When the flag during the operation effective period is set (that is, during the operation effective period in the button notice effect), the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the auto button effective flag is set. If it is set (step S8112A), the process proceeds to step S8147. If the auto button valid flag is not set, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the auto consecutive hit flag indicating that the operation by the auto consecutive hit function is being detected is set (step S8113). If the automatic continuous hitting flag is not set, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the operation detection flag is set (step S8114).

If the operation detection flag is not set, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the pressing operation of the push button 120 is detected (step S8115). If the push operation of the push button 120 is detected, the effect control CPU 101 sets the operation detection flag (step S8116) and decrements the value of the operation number counter by 1 (step S8117). Further, the effect control CPU 101 updates the display of the gauge display on the effect display device 9 according to the value of the operation number counter after the subtraction (step S8118). For example, in step S8118, when it is determined to execute the button advance notice effect A or the button advance notice effect B, the scale of the gauge display is decreased by one on the basis that the value of the operation number counter is decreased by one. When it is decided to update the display in the manner as described above and execute the button notice effect C, the display is updated in the manner in which all the scales of the gauge display are reduced. In the case of the button notice effect C, the gauge display may not be displayed from the beginning.

When the push button 120 is repeatedly struck (normal continuous smashing, not automatic continuous smashing) during the operation valid period of the button advance notice effect by executing the processing of steps S8115 to S8118, one pressing operation of the push button 120 is detected. Each time the operation is performed, the number of operations is counted one by one and the display on the gauge display is updated.

It should be noted that in this embodiment, when the push operation of the push button 120 is detected during the operation valid period of the button notice effect, the operation detection flag is set (see step S8116), and in the subsequent timer interruption, in step S8114 N If it is not, the process does not proceed to the processing of step S8115 and subsequent steps. Therefore, unless it is detected that the push operation of the push button 120 has been once released, the next push operation of the push button 120 is not detected (long press). Exclude if you are).

Next, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the operation condition in the button advance notice effect is satisfied (step S8119). It should be noted that whether or not the operation condition is satisfied is specifically whether or not the value of the operation number counter is 0 (in the present example, the number of times the push button 120 is operated 10 times during the operation valid period ( Alternatively, it can be determined by checking whether or not (1) has been achieved. If the operation condition is satisfied (that is, if the value of the operation number counter is 0 (in this example, the operation of 10 times (or once) is achieved)), the process proceeds to step S8144. To do.

If the operation condition in the button advance notice effect is not satisfied, the effect control CPU 101 sets the button for the automatic continuous stroke start time timer for measuring the time from the start of the long press operation to the start of detection by automatic continuous stroke. A value corresponding to the type of notice production is set (step S8120). In this case, for example, if it is decided to execute the button advance notice effect A, it is possible to set a value corresponding to 4 seconds in the automatic continuous hit start time timer and decide to execute the button advance notice effect B. For example, a value corresponding to 2 seconds is set in the automatic continuous stroke start time timer (see FIG. 32). Then, the process proceeds to step S8138.

If the operation detection flag is set in step S8114, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the pressing operation of the push button 120 is detected (step S8121). If the push operation of the push button 120 is detected, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the value of the automatic continuous hitting start time timer is 0 (step S8122). If the value of the automatic continuous stroke start time timer is 0, the process moves to step S8138.

If the value of the automatic continuous hit start time timer is not 0, the effect control CPU 101 subtracts 1 from the value of the automatic continuous hit start time timer (step S8123), and the value of the automatic continuous hit start time timer after the subtraction becomes 0. It is confirmed whether or not there is any (step S8124). If the value of the automatic continuous hitting start time timer after subtraction is not 0, the process proceeds to step S8138. If the value of the automatic repeated hit start time timer after subtraction is 0 (that is, if the timeout has occurred), the effect control CPU 101 is detecting an operation by the automatic continuous hit function on the effect display device 9. The automatic continuous hitting display indicating that is started (step S8125), and the automatic continuous hitting flag is set (step S8126). Further, the effect control CPU 101 sets an automatic continuous hit detection interval timer for measuring the time until one operation is counted during the detection of an operation by automatic continuous hits based on a long press operation, according to the type of the button advance notice effect. The set value is set (step S8127). In this case, for example, when it is decided to execute the button advance notice effect A, a value corresponding to 1.0 second is set to the automatic repeated hit detection interval timer, and it is decided to execute the button advance notice effect B. If so, a value corresponding to 0.5 seconds is set in the automatic repeated hit detection interval timer (see FIG. 32). Then, the process proceeds to step S8138.

When the predetermined time (in this example, 4 seconds or 2 seconds) elapses after the long press of the push button 120 is started by executing the processes of steps S8122 to S8127, the operation by the automatic continuous hit function is detected. Be started.

Note that if the push button 120 has already been pressed at the time of the start of the button advance notice effect, the operation detection flag is set in step S8112, and the automatic continuous tapping start time timer in step S8120 is not set either. Unless the pressing operation of the push button 120 is temporarily stopped, Y in step S8114, Y in step S8121 and Y in step S8122 are repeated, and the detection of the operation by the automatic continuous hitting function is not started. ..

In this embodiment, in order to exclude the case where the push button 120 is pressed and held for a long time before the start of the button advance notice effect, the push button 120 detects the pressing operation at the start of the button advance notice effect. Although the operation detection flag is set by the user (see steps S8111 and S8112), the push button 120 detects the pressing operation from the stage before the start of the button notice effect and sets the operation detection flag. May be. In this case, after the operation detection flag is set before the start of the button advance notice effect, and if the operation state of the push button 120 is canceled before the start of the button advance notice effect, the operation detection flag is reset again. Good. As described above, it may be configured to eliminate the case where the push button 120 is pressed and held for a long time before the start of the button advance notice effect by some processing mode.

If the push operation of the push button 120 is not detected in step S8121, the effect control CPU 101 resets the operation detection flag (step S8128). Then, the process proceeds to step S8138.

If the automatic continuous hitting flag is set in step S8113 (that is, if the operation by the automatic continuous hitting function is being detected), the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the pressing operation of the push button 120 is detected. Yes (step S8129). If the push operation of the push button 120 is detected, the effect control CPU 101 subtracts 1 from the value of the automatic continuous hit detection interval timer (step S8130), and the value of the automatic continuous hit detection interval timer after subtraction becomes 0. It is confirmed whether or not there is any (step S8131). If the value of the automatic continuous hit detection interval timer after subtraction is not 0, the process proceeds to step S8138. If the value of the automatic continuous hit detection interval timer is 0 (that is, if the timeout has occurred), the effect control CPU 101 subtracts 1 from the value of the operation number counter (step S8132). Further, the effect control CPU 101 updates the display of the gauge display on the effect display device 9 according to the value of the operation number counter after the subtraction (step S8133).

Next, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the operation condition in the button notice effect is satisfied (step S8133A). If the operation condition is satisfied (that is, if the value of the operation number counter is 0 (in this example, the operation of 10 times or 1 time is achieved)), the process proceeds to step S8144.

If the operation condition in the button advance notice effect is not satisfied, the effect control CPU 101 sets a value corresponding to the type of the button advance notice effect in the automatic continuous hit start time timer (step S8134). In this case, for example, if it is decided to execute the button advance notice effect A, it is possible to set a value corresponding to 4 seconds in the automatic continuous hit start time timer and decide to execute the button advance notice effect B. For example, a value corresponding to 2 seconds is set in the automatic continuous stroke start time timer (see FIG. 32). Then, the process proceeds to step S8138.

By executing the processes of steps S8129 to S8134, in this embodiment, when the operation by the automatic continuous hitting function is being detected, the push button 120 is actually pressed and held for a long time. However, each time the predetermined time (1.0 seconds or 0.5 seconds in this example) elapses, the number of operations is counted one by one, and it is detected that the push button 120 is repeatedly hit. Done.

If the push operation of the push button 120 is not detected in step S8129, the effect control CPU 101 erases the automatic continuous hitting display displayed on the effect display device 9 (step S8135) and resets the automatic continuous hitting flag. Yes (step S8136). Further, the effect control CPU 101 resets the operation detection flag (step S8137). That is, the fact that the pressing operation of the push button 120 is not detected in step S8129 means that the long pressing operation of the push button 120 is stopped in the middle of the detection of the operation by the automatic repeated hitting function, and thus step S8135. The process from S8137 to S8137 is executed to stop the detection of the operation by the automatic continuous hitting function. Then, the process proceeds to step S8138.

In this embodiment, when N is determined in step S8129, the processes of steps S8135 to S8137 are immediately executed, so that if the player stops the long press operation for a while during the automatic continuous hit, the automatic continuous hit function is immediately performed. Although the case where the detection of the operation is stopped is shown, the present invention is not limited to such a mode. For example, it is configured to shift to the processing of steps S8135 to S8137 on condition that the long-press operation has been stopped for a predetermined time (for example, 0.1 to 0.5 seconds) during the automatic continuous hits, When only the hand is released from the push button 120 momentarily, the detection of the operation by the automatic continuous hitting function may be continued.

Next, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not it is the end timing of the operation valid period in the button notice effect (step S8138). Whether or not it is the end timing of the operation valid period can be specifically determined by checking the value of the variation time timer set in step S8006 of the effect symbol variation start process. If it is not the end timing of the operation valid period, the process moves to step S8158.

If it is the end timing of the operation valid period, the effect control CPU 101 deletes the gauge display displayed on the effect display device 9 (step S8139), and if the automatic continuous hitting display is displayed, the effect is displayed. The automatic continuous hitting display is erased (step S8140). Further, the effect control CPU 101 resets the flag during the operation valid period (step S8141) and resets the automatic continuous hitting flag and the operation detection flag if the automatic continuous hitting flag and the operation detection flag are set (step S8141). Step S8142). When the automatic continuous hit start time timer and the automatic continuous hit detection interval timer are set, the effect control CPU 101 also clears the values of the automatic continuous hit start time timer and the automatic continuous hit detection interval timer to zero. Then, it transfers to step S8158. In this embodiment, the notice display is not displayed if the number of detections does not reach the predetermined number during the operation valid period of the button notice production, but a notice is also given when the operation valid period ends before the number of detections reaches the predetermined number. The display may be displayed.

When the operation condition is satisfied in step S8119 or step S8133A, effect control CPU 101 causes effect display device 9 to display a notice display according to the type of the button notice effect (step S8144). In this case, for example, when the button advance notice effect A or the button advance notice effect B is executed, a character string such as “excitement!” or “chance!” is displayed as a notice display, and the button notice effect C is executed. In some cases, the character A or the character B is displayed as a notice display. In addition, the effect control CPU 101 controls the operation of the vibrator motor 126 to cause the stick controller 122 and the push button 120 to vibrate (step S8144A). Then, it transfers to step S8139.

When the auto button effective flag is set in step S8112A, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the auto button executing flag indicating that the detection process by the auto button function is being executed is set. Yes (step S8147). When the auto button execution flag is not set, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether it is the start timing of the detection process by the auto button function (step S8156), and starts the detection process by the auto button function. If it is timing, an auto button execution flag is set (step S8156A), and an auto button detection interval timer for measuring the time until one operation is counted during the operation detection process by the auto button function. Is set to a value corresponding to the type of button notice effect (step S8157).

In step S8156, for example, if it is decided to execute button advance notice effect A or button advance notice effect B, it is confirmed whether or not it is the timing when 0 seconds has elapsed from the start of the operation valid period (FIG. 32 ( (See A) and (B)). That is, it is confirmed whether or not it is the start time of the automatic continuous hit by the auto button function. In step S8157, if it is decided to execute the button advance notice effect A, for example, the auto button detection interval timer is set to a value corresponding to 1.0 second, and the button advance notice effect B is executed. If it is determined to be, the value corresponding to 0.5 seconds is set in the auto button detection interval timer (see FIGS. 32A and 32B).

If it is decided to execute the button advance notice effect A or the button advance notice effect B by executing the processes of steps S8156 to S8157, the detection process by the function of the auto button at the same time as the start of the operation effective period (that is, , Automatic continuous hit) is started.

In this embodiment, when the function of the auto button is effective when it is decided to execute the button advance notice effect A, compared with the case where it is decided to execute the button notice effect B, the auto button Since the detection interval is long (see FIGS. 32A and 32B), the timing at which the operating condition is satisfied is delayed (see FIG. 33B).

In the case of the button notice effect C that displays the notice display based on the detection of the single operation of the push button 120, as shown in FIG. 33B, the operation condition is satisfied in the middle of the operation effective period. In order to do so, it is assumed that the start timing of the detection process by the auto button function is set in the middle of the operation valid period. If it is decided to execute the button advance notice effect C when the auto button function is valid, in step S8156, a predetermined timing in the middle stage of the operation valid period, which is the start timing of the detection processing by the Orton function (for example, When the operation valid period is 6 seconds, it is confirmed whether or not it is 3 seconds after the start of the operation valid period). In step S8157, a value corresponding to 0 seconds is set in the auto button detection interval timer. By executing the processing in this manner, it is determined that one operation is immediately detected in the processing of steps S8149 to S8153 described later, and a notice display is displayed as if the operation condition is satisfied. That is, in the case of the button notice effect C, once the detection process by the auto button function is started, the operation condition is satisfied when it is determined that the one-time operation is detected. Therefore, the process for detecting the one-shot operation is performed. Become.

When the auto button execution flag is set in step S8147, the effect control CPU 101 subtracts 1 from the value of the auto button detection interval timer (step S8148), and the value of the auto button detection interval timer after the subtraction is It is confirmed whether or not it is 0 (step S8149). If the value of the auto button detection interval timer after subtraction is not 0, the process moves to step S8158. If the value of the auto button detection interval timer is 0 (that is, if it has timed out), the effect control CPU 101 subtracts 1 from the value of the operation number counter (step S8150). Further, the effect control CPU 101 updates the display of the gauge display on the effect display device 9 according to the value of the operation number counter after the subtraction (step S8151).

Next, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the operation condition in the button notice effect is satisfied (step S8152). If the operation condition is not satisfied (that is, the value of the operation number counter is not 0), the process proceeds to step S8157.

If the operation condition is satisfied (that is, if the value of the operation number counter is 0), the effect control CPU 101 causes the effect display device 9 to display a notice display according to the type of the button notice effect. (Step S8154). Further, the effect control CPU 101 erases the gauge display (step S8154), resets the auto button executing flag (step S8155), and resets the operation valid period flag (step S8155A). Then, it transfers to step S8158.

In step S8158, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the special operation valid period flag indicating that the special operation valid period in the back button notice effect is set (step S8158). If not set, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether it is the start timing of the special operation effective period (step S8159), and if it is the start timing of the special operation effective period, sets the special operation effective period flag. It is set (step S8160). Then, it transfers to step S8161.

When the flag during the special operation effective period is set in step S8158, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether it is the end timing of the special operation effective period (step S8164), and if it is not the end timing, the step is performed. If it is the end timing, the flag is reset during the special operation valid period (step S8165), and the process proceeds to step S8166.

In step S8161, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the operation of the push button 120 is detected (step S8161), and if it is detected, the type of the back button notice effect in which the light emission mode of the frame LED 29 is determined. It is confirmed whether or not the light emission mode corresponds to (step S8162). If the light emission mode does not correspond to the type of back button notice effect, the effect control CPU 101 controls the frame LED 29 to emit light according to the light emission mode according to the determined type of back button notice effect (step S8163).

Note that the back button advance notice effect is not limited to the one in which the frame LED 29 emits light in a predetermined light emission mode, and for example, an image, a character, or a character may be displayed on the effect display device 9 according to the type of the back button advance notice effect. May be used to indicate the degree of expectation, or the LEDs provided on the board may be caused to emit light in a predetermined light emission mode, or the movable member may be operated in any of a plurality of operation modes. The operation means (for example, the push button 120 or the stick controller 122) may be operated by any of a plurality of operation modes (for example, vibration, rotation, deformation, etc.).

In step S8166, CPU 101 for effect control checks whether or not the set button effect period flag indicating that the set button effect is being executed (that is, during the operation valid period of the set button effect) is set (step S8166). Step S8166). If it is set, the process proceeds to step S8169. If it is not set, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not it is the start timing of the set button effect (step S8167), and at the start timing of the set button effect. If there is, a flag is set during the decision button rendering period (step S8168). Further, at this time, the effect display device 9 displays an operation instruction image prompting the push operation of the push button 120.

Next, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the auto button valid flag is set (step S8169). If the auto button valid flag is not set, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the operation of the push button 120 is detected (step S8170), and if it is detected, according to the display result of the variable display. A winning/defeating notification image by the selected button effect is displayed (step S8174). After that, the flag during the set button presentation period is reset (step S8175), and the process proceeds to step S8176.

When the operation of the push button 120 is not detected in step S8170, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether it is the end timing of the set button effect (step S8171), and if it is the end timing, step S8174. If it is not the end timing, the process proceeds to step S8176.

In addition, when the automatic button effective flag is set in step S8169, the effect control CPU 101 starts the operation effective period when the operation condition by the automatic button function is satisfied (for example, when the operation effective period is 10 seconds). It is checked whether or not it is 9 seconds after (step S8172). If the operation condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to step S8174. If the operation condition is not satisfied, the process proceeds to step S8176. When the player operates the push button 120 according to the set button effect when the auto button function is valid, the auto button function is immediately changed from valid to invalid (steps S7101, S7110). To S7111), the auto button valid flag is not set (N in step S8169), it is determined that the input from the push button 120 is detected (Y in step S8170), and the hit/miss notification image is displayed (step). S8174).

In step S8176, the CPU 101 for effect control updates the value of the effect control process flag to a value according to the effect design fluctuation stop process (step S803) if the change time timer has timed out (step S8176) (step S8177). ).

FIG. 40 is a flowchart showing the effect symbol fluctuation stop process (step S803) in the effect control process process. In the effect symbol variation stop processing, first, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the stop symbol display flag indicating that the effect symbol stop symbol is displayed is set (step S8301). If the stop symbol display flag is set, it moves to step S8305. In this embodiment, when the big hit symbol is displayed as the stop symbol of the effect symbol, the stop symbol display flag is set in step S8304. Then, the stop symbol display flag is reset when the fanfare effect is executed. Therefore, the fact that the stop symbol display flag is set means that the jackpot symbol has been stopped and displayed, but the fanfare effect has not yet been executed, so the process for displaying the effect symbol stop symbol in step S8302 is executed. No, the process moves to step S8305.

When the stop symbol display flag is not set, the effect control CPU 101 performs control to stop and display the determined stop symbol (delayed symbol, big hit symbol) (step S8302). It should be noted that the effect control CPU 101 erases the advance notice display when the advance notice effect is being executed and the advance notice display is being displayed on the effect display device 9.

Next, when neither the big hit symbol nor the small hit symbol is displayed in the process of step S8302 (that is, the off symbol is displayed) (N in step S8303), the effect control CPU 101 moves to step S8311. To do.

When the big hit symbol or the small hit symbol is stopped and displayed in the process of step S8302 (Y in step S8303), the effect control CPU 101 sets the stop symbol display flag (step S8304) and receives the big hit start 1 designation command. The big hit start 1 designated command reception flag indicating that the big hit start 2 designated command was received, the big hit start 2 designated command reception flag indicating that the big hit start 2 designated command was received, or the small hit/sudden variation It is confirmed whether or not the sudden change jackpot start designation command reception flag is set suddenly (step S8305). When the big hit start 1 designated command reception flag, the big hit start 2 designated command reception flag, or the small hit/sudden probability big hit start designated command reception flag is set, the effect control CPU 101 resets the stop symbol display flag. (Step S8306), the process table according to the fanfare production is selected (step S8307). If the big hit start 1 designated command reception flag, the big hit start 2 designated command reception flag, or the small hit/suddenly probable big hit start designated command reception flag is set, the effect control CPU 101 sets the flag that has been set. To reset.

Then, the effect control CPU 101 starts the process timer by setting the process timer setting value to the process timer (step S8308), and the contents of the process data 1 (display control execution data 1, lamp control execution data 1, sound number). According to the data 1 and the movable member control data 1), the control of the effect device (effect display device 9 as effect parts, various lamps as effect parts, and speaker 27 as effect parts) is executed (step S8309). 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 S8310).

When it is determined that neither the big hit nor the small hit (N in step S8303), the effect control CPU 101 resets a predetermined flag (step S8311). For example, the effect control CPU 101 resets the first symbol variation designation command reception flag and the second symbol variation designation command reception flag. It should be noted that the effect control CPU 101 may reset the command reception flag immediately after being referred to in the effect control process process or the fourth symbol process process (for example, as shown in step S811 of FIG. 27, a variation pattern). The fluctuation pattern command reception flag may be reset immediately after confirming the command reception flag). However, for example, for the symbol variation designation command, since it is referred to in both the production control process process and the fourth symbol process process, as shown in this embodiment, the production symbol variation stop process at the end of variation, etc. It is desirable to reset in or in the big hit end effect processing when the big hit ends.

Then, 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) (step S8312).

Next, a display mode when the function of the auto button is set to be valid or invalid will be described. FIG. 41 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of a display mode when the function of the auto button is set to be valid or invalid. In FIG. 41, the mode of the display screen changes in the order of (1), (2) and (3). 41(1), the function of the auto button is set to be invalid.

As shown in FIG. 41(1), when the player performs a long press operation of the push button 120 while the effect design variable display is being executed, as shown in FIG. 41(2), the auto button is pressed. While the function is set to be valid, a character string such as "auto button valid" is displayed on the effect display device 9 to display that the function of the auto button is set to valid. At this time, the control for outputting the automatic button effective sound effect from the speaker 27 and the control for causing the push button 120 to emit light in the special light emission mode are performed (see steps S7103 to S7107).

When the player presses the push button 120 (single-shot operation) while the auto button function is enabled, the auto button function is disabled as shown in FIG. 41(3). And the character string such as "auto button disabled" is displayed on the effect display device 9 to indicate that the function of the auto button is disabled. In addition, at this time, control for outputting the automatic button invalid effect sound from the speaker 27 and control for causing the push button 120 to emit light in the normal light emission mode are performed (see steps S7110 to S7114).

Note that, in the example of FIG. 41, the setting of the auto button function is changed during the variable display of the effect symbols, but in the present embodiment, the same operation is performed so that it is not limited to the variable display of the effect symbols. The setting of the auto button function can be changed even during the customer waiting demonstration period or the big hit game period.

Next, a case where the function of the auto button and the background image are set from the setting menu screen will be described. FIG. 42 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of the display mode when the function of the auto button or the setting of the background image is performed from the setting menu screen. Note that in FIG. 42, the modes of the display screen change in the order of (1), (2), (3),....

As shown in FIG. 42(1), the last variable display of the effect symbol is executed in the effect display device 9 in a state where there is no hold storage, and as shown in FIG. 42(2), based on the change time having elapsed. It is assumed that the variable display of the effect design is finished. In this case, since there is still no pending storage even at the end of the variable display, it is assumed that the next variable display of the effect design is not started and the customer waiting demonstration period is entered. In this case, for example, as shown in FIG. 42(3), on the effect display device 9, a character string such as “Please operate the stick controller for effect setting” is displayed, and a display indicating that effect-related settings are possible is displayed. Shall be performed.

When the player operates the stick controller 122 in the state shown in FIG. 42(3), as shown in FIG. 42(4), the display of the setting menu screen is started on the effect display device 9 (see step S819). , It is possible to enable or disable the function of the auto button and to set the background image. In the example shown in FIG. 42(4), "valid" and "invalid" are displayed as setting items regarding the auto button on the setting menu screen, and "A", "B", and "C" as setting items regarding the background image. And are displayed. Further, in the example shown in FIG. 42(4), "valid" among the setting items regarding the auto button is surrounded by a rectangle, and "A" among the setting items regarding the background image is surrounded by a rectangle. It is shown that the function of the auto button is currently set to be valid and the background image is set to the background image A. Also, the cursor 200 displayed in the setting menu screen points to the selected item. In the example shown in FIG. 42(4), since the cursor 200 indicates "valid" among the setting items regarding the auto button, the setting item indicating "valid" of the function of the auto button is selected. Is.

Next, when the player operates the stick controller while the setting menu screen is displayed (for example, when the stick controller is tilted to the right), the cursor 200 is automatically moved as shown in FIG. 42(5). The setting item regarding the button is moved from "valid" to "invalid" (see step S822). Here, when the player presses the push button 120, the function of the auto button is switched from valid to invalid (see step S825). At this time, “invalid” among the setting items related to the auto button is surrounded by a rectangle.

When the player operates the stick controller (for example, when the player tilts the front controller), the cursor 200 moves to the setting item “B” related to the background image, as shown in FIG. 42(7). (See step S822). Here, when the push button 120 is pressed by the player, the setting of the background image is switched from "A" to "B" (see step S827). At this time, “B” among the setting items related to the background image is surrounded by a rectangle. After that, when the cursor 200 is moved to the setting end and the push button 120 is pressed, the setting menu screen ends.

Note that even when the setting of the function of the auto button is changed from the setting menu, the effect display device 9 displays that the function of the auto button is disabled or enabled, as in the example shown in FIG. 41. Alternatively, the automatic button invalid sound effect or the automatic button effective sound effect may be output from the speaker 27, or the push button 120 may be controlled to emit light in the normal light emission mode or the special light emission mode. ..

Next, the presentation mode of the button notice presentation will be described. FIG. 43 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of the effect mode of the button advance notice effect when the automatic continuous hitting by the automatic button function is performed. In addition, in FIG. 43, the aspect of the effect screen changes in the order of (1), (2), (3),....

In the example shown in FIG. 43, it is assumed that the execution of the button advance notice effect B is decided when the variable display of the effect symbols is started. Then, as shown in FIG. 43(1), when the effect display device 9 is performing the variable display of the left, middle, and right effect symbols, the start timing of the operation valid period of the button notice effect B is reached (step S8107). As shown in FIG. 43(2), the character string 202 such as “press the button!” is displayed on the effect display device 9 and the display of the gauge display 203 is started (see steps S8108 and S8109). ), the detection of the operation by the push button 120 is started. Note that, as shown in FIG. 43(2), at the stage when the operation valid period is started, the gauge display 203 is started to be displayed in a mode showing the full tank state.

Next, as shown in FIG. 43(3), at the start timing of the automatic repeated hits by the automatic button function (in this example, at the same time as the start of the operation valid period) (see step S8156), the push buttons 120 are repeatedly hit. The display is updated so that the scale of the gauge display gradually decreases (FIGS. 43(3) to (5)).

Then, as shown in FIG. 43(6), it is assumed that the operation is performed a predetermined number of times (in this example, 10 times or 1 time), so that the value of the operation number counter becomes 0. , The display is updated up to a mode in which the gauge display 203 shows an empty state.

When the operation condition is satisfied, as shown in FIG. 43(7), the character string 202 such as "Press the button!" is deleted and the gauge display 203 is also deleted (see step S8139). Further, a notice display corresponding to the type of button notice effect is displayed (see step S8153). Note that, in the example shown in FIG. 43(7), based on the fact that the type of the button advance notice effect is the button advance notice effect B, a case where a character string 205 such as “Chance!” is displayed as the advance notice display is shown. There is. When the type of the button notice effect is the button notice effect A, for example, a character string such as “excited heat!” is displayed as the notice display. When the operation condition is satisfied by the function of the auto button, the vibration control of the push button 120 is not performed.

FIG. 44 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of the effect mode of the button advance notice effect when the automatic continuous hitting is performed by the long press operation. In addition, in FIG. 44, the aspect of the effect screen changes in the order of (1), (2), (3),....

In the example shown in FIG. 44, it is assumed that the execution of the button advance notice effect B is decided when the variable display of the effect symbols is started. Then, as shown in FIG. 44(1), when the effect display device 9 is performing the variable display of the left, middle, and right effect symbols, the start timing of the operation valid period of the button notice effect B is reached (step S8107). As shown in FIG. 44(2), a character string 202 such as "press the button!" is displayed on the effect display device 9 and the gauge display 203 is started to be displayed (see steps S8108 and S8109). ), the detection of the operation by the push button 120 is started. As shown in FIG. 44(2), at the stage when the operation valid period is started, the gauge display 203 is started to be displayed in a mode showing the full state. When the push button 120 is repeatedly struck during the operation valid period in this state, the number of operations is counted by one each time the push button 120 is pressed once (see step S8117), and the scale of the gauge display 203 is scaled. The display is updated in such a manner as to decrease by one (see step S8118).

Next, as shown in FIG. 44(3), it is assumed that the player has started a long press operation of the push button 120 during the operation valid period. Then, when a predetermined time (for example, 2 seconds) elapses after the long press operation is started, as shown in FIG. 44(4), the display of the automatic continuous hitting display 204 is started (see step S8125), and the automatic continuous hits are performed. The detection of the operation by the function of is started. In the example shown in FIG. 44(4), a case where a character string such as "automatic continuous hitting!" is displayed as the automatic continuous hitting display.

Next, if the push button 120 is continuously pressed during the detection of the operation by the automatic continuous hitting function, the number of operations is counted by 1 each time a predetermined time (for example, 0.5 seconds) elapses (step S8132). In this case, the display is updated so that the scale of the gauge display 203 is decreased by one (see step S8133), and the push button 120 is actually pressed and held for a long time. The detection is performed as if 120 consecutive hits have been performed. Then, as shown in FIG. 44(6), a predetermined number of times (for example, 10 times) of the operation conditions are performed, and the value of the operation number counter becomes 0, so that the gauge display 203 is in an empty state. It is assumed that the display has been updated up to the mode indicating.

When the operation condition is satisfied, as shown in FIG. 44(7), the character string 202 such as "press the button!" is erased and the gauge display 203 is also erased (see step S8139). Further, the automatic continuous hitting display 204 is also erased (see step S8140). Then, as shown in FIG. 44(7), on the effect display device 9, a notice display corresponding to the type of the button notice effect is displayed (see step S8144). When the operation condition is satisfied by the long press operation, the vibration control of the push button 120 is performed unlike when the operation condition is satisfied by the function of the auto button (see step S8144A).

Next, the button advance notice effect C and the decided button effect when the automatic button function is valid will be described. FIG. 45 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of the presentation mode of the button notice presentation C and the decided button presentation. In addition, in FIG. 45, the aspect of the effect screen changes in the order of (1), (2), (3),.... 45(A1) to (A3) show a specific example of the effect mode of the button notice effect C, and FIGS. 45(B1) to (B4) show a specific example of the effect mode of the final button effect. ing.

In the example shown in FIGS. 45(A1) to (A3), at the start timing of the operation valid period of the button advance notice effect C (see step S8107), as shown in FIG. A character string 207 such as “PUSH!” is displayed, the operation valid period display 206 indicating the operation valid period is started, and the detection of the operation by the push button 120 is started.

The operation valid period display 206 is updated and displayed so that the scale decreases as the operation valid period elapses, and as shown in FIG. 45(A2), a predetermined timing in the middle of the operation valid period (for example, when the operation valid period is 6 When it is 3 seconds after the start of the operation valid period (second), if the auto button function is valid, the character A is displayed as a notice display as shown in FIG. 45(A3).

In the example shown in FIGS. 45(B1) to (B4), at the start timing of the operation valid period of the set button effect (see step S8167), as shown in FIG. 45(B1), “PUSH” is displayed on the effect display device 9. The character strings 207 and 208 such as "!" and "Ikki!" are displayed, and the display of the operation valid period display 206 indicating the operation valid period is started, and the detection of the operation by the push button 120 is started.

The operation valid period display 206 is updated and displayed so that the scale decreases as the operation valid period elapses (FIG. 45(B2)), and as shown in FIG. 45(B3), a predetermined timing at the end of the operation valid period ( For example, when the operation valid period is 10 seconds and 9 seconds have elapsed from the start of the operation valid period), if the auto button function is valid, it indicates that it is a big hit as shown in FIG. 45(B4). The result display is displayed.

As shown in FIG. 45, in this embodiment, when the function of the auto button is effective, the button notice effect C is in the middle of the operation effective period (for example, when the operation effective period is 6 seconds, the operation is effective). The operation condition is satisfied at the timing when 3 seconds have elapsed from the start of the period), and the decision button effect is 9 seconds from the start of the operation effective period immediately before the end of the operation effective period (for example, when the operation effective period is 10 seconds). It is configured such that the operation condition is satisfied at the elapsed timing). With such a configuration, it is possible to execute the processing by the auto button according to the degree of importance and the degree of attention of the effect, and it is possible to enhance the effect of the effect.

In addition, in the example shown in FIG. 45, the operation valid period display 206 capable of recognizing the remaining period of the operation valid period in the button notice production C is displayed, but the operation is also effective in the button notice production A and the button notice production B. The period display 206 may be displayed.

Next, the difference between the case where the automatic continuous stroke is performed by the long press operation and the case where the automatic continuous stroke is performed by the auto button function will be described. FIG. 46 is an explanatory diagram showing a comparative example of automatic continuous hitting by a long press operation and automatic continuous hitting by an automatic button function. In the example shown in FIG. 46, it is assumed that execution of the button advance notice effect A has been decided.

As shown in FIG. 46(A), when automatic continuous hitting is performed by a long press operation, a predetermined start waiting period (main) after the long press operation of the push button 120 is started after the start of the operation valid period. In the example, 4 seconds.After the lapse of the time shown in FIGS. 32(A) and 32(B), the continuous stroke determination is turned on (that is, the processing is executed assuming that the continuous stroke operation is being performed, and the scale of the gauge display is changed). Decrease).

On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 46(B), when automatic continuous hitting by the auto button function is performed, the continuous hit determination is turned on immediately after the start of the operation valid period (that is, in the operation valid period). Immediately after the start, the process is executed as if the continuous hit operation is being performed, and the scale of the gauge display is reduced). With this configuration, when the auto button function is valid and the long press operation is not performed, and when the auto button function is invalid and the long press operation is performed, the effect (for example, reduction of the scale of the gauge display is reduced. ) Can be executed at different timings, and the effect of production can be enhanced.

In addition, in this embodiment, when the execution of the button advance notice effect B is determined, when the automatic continuous hit by the long press operation is performed, the push button 120 is long pressed after the start of the operation valid period. After a predetermined start standby period (2 seconds in this example, see FIGS. 32A and 32B) has elapsed since the operation was started, the continuous hit determination is turned on, and automatic continuous hits are performed by the auto button function. In this case, the continuous hit determination is turned on immediately after the start of the operation valid period. Therefore, in each of the button notice effects A and B, the effect is produced when the auto button function is valid and the long press operation is not performed and when the auto button function is invalid and the long press operation is performed. The timing (for example, reduction of the scale of the gauge display) is configured to be different.

Next, the operation detection timing in the case where the operation is detected by automatic continuous hitting by long-pressing operation will be described. 47 and 48 are explanatory diagrams for explaining the operation detection timing in the case where the operation is detected by automatic continuous hitting by long-pressing operation. Of these, FIG. 47 shows the detection timing of the operation when the button advance notice effect A is executed. Further, FIG. 48 shows the operation detection timing when the button advance notice effect B is executed.

When the player starts the long press operation of the push button 120 after the operation valid period of the button notice production starts during the variable display of the effect design, the long press operation of the push button 120 is performed as shown in FIGS. 47 and 48. When is started, detection is performed as if the first operation was performed. Here, in the example shown in FIG. 47 and FIG. 48, since the long press operation is performed, the press operation from the push button 120 is continuously detected, but the operation detection flag is set. As a result, it is not immediately detected as the next operation (see steps S8114 and S8116).

Next, when a predetermined time elapses while the long-press operation of the push button 120 is continued, detection of an operation by the automatic continuous hitting function is started (see steps S8124 to S8127). In this case, if the button advance notice effect A is executed, as shown in FIG. 47, the detection of the operation by the automatic repeated hitting function is started based on the long press operation of the push button 120 being continued for 4 seconds. To be done. Further, when the button advance notice effect B is executed, as shown in FIG. 48, the detection of the operation by the automatic continuous hitting function is started based on the long press operation of the push button 120 being continued for 2 seconds. (See FIG. 32).

If the push button 120 is continuously pressed while the operation of the automatic continuous hit function is detected, the number of times of operation is counted one by one each time a predetermined time elapses, and the push button 120 is continuously hit. Detection is performed as being performed (see steps S8131 to S8134). In this case, if the button advance notice effect A is executed, as shown in FIG. 47, the number of operations is counted one by one every 1.0 second, and the push button 120 is repeatedly hit. The detection is performed as if it is known. Further, if the button advance notice effect B is executed, as shown in FIG. 47, the number of operations is counted by one every 0.5 seconds, and the push button 120 is repeatedly hit. Detection is performed (see FIG. 32).

Next, the operation detection timing in the case where the push button 120 has already been pressed at the start of the button notice effect will be described. FIG. 49 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the operation detection timing when the push button 120 has already been pressed at the start of the button advance notice effect.

If the push button 120 has already been pressed when the operation valid period of the button notice production starts during the variable display of the effect design, the operation detection flag is set immediately with the start of the operation valid period (step S8121). Y, step S8128). In this case, as shown in FIG. 49, even if the push button 120 is pressed for a long time, the operation is not detected by the automatic function, and the push operation of the push button 120 is temporarily stopped. Means that the operation up to that point is invalid (see Y in step S8114, Y in step S8121, and Y in step S8222).

Then, after the push operation of the push button 120 is once stopped, when the long push operation of the push button 120 is started again, a predetermined time elapses while the long push operation is continued. Detection is started (see steps S8124 to S8127), and if the long press operation of the push button 120 is continued during the detection of the operation by the automatic continuous hitting function, the operation count is incremented by one each time a predetermined time elapses. The count is performed, and it is detected that the push button 120 is repeatedly hit (see steps S8131 to S8134).

Note that, in the example shown in FIG. 49, the case where the button advance notice effect A is executed is shown, and based on the long press operation of the push button 120 being continued for 4 seconds, the operation detection by the automatic continuous hitting function is detected. A case is shown in which the number of operations is counted one by one each time 1.0 seconds has elapsed after the start, and detection is performed as if the push button 120 is repeatedly hit. When the button advance notice effect B is executed, the detection of the operation by the automatic continuous hitting function is started based on the long press operation of the push button 120 being continued for 2 seconds, and every 0.5 seconds elapses. The number of operations is counted one by one, and the push button 120 is detected as if the push button 120 is repeatedly hit.

In this embodiment, the effect display device 9 displays an operation valid period display (for example, a character string 202 such as “press the button!” shown in FIG. 43 or a gauge display 203) indicating that the operation is valid. Although it is displayed, for example, at least a part of the operation effective period display is hidden by another effect executed at the same time (for example, a character effect, a fade-out effect, a blackout effect, etc.), which makes it difficult to view. It is possible. Therefore, it is desirable that the operation valid period ends after the period in which the detection valid period display is in the visually difficult state. With this configuration, since the operation valid period display is displayed even after the difficult-to-view state is resolved, it is possible to prevent missing of the valid operation.

FIG. 50 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example in the case where the accessory effect and the button notice effect are executed at the same time. In the effect display device 9, after the variable display of the effect symbols is started (FIG. 50(A)), when the character effect and the button notice effect are started, the control for moving the accessory 200 to the effect position is started. At the same time, on the display screen of the effect display device 9, the operation promotion image 301 for prompting the operation and the remaining effective period image 302 showing the remaining period of the operation effective period are displayed (FIG. 50(B)). Then, the accessory 200 gradually moves toward the rendering position, and the remaining effective period image 302 indicates the remaining period according to the elapsed period (that is, according to the remaining period of the detection effective period). In the example of 50, the shaded area corresponds) is updated so as to decrease (FIG. 50(C)).

Next, when the accessory 200 reaches the effect position, the accessory 200 stops for a predetermined period (FIG. 50(D)). At this time, the operation promotion image 301 and the remaining effective period image 302 due to the button notice effect are covered by the accessory 200 and are difficult to visually recognize. However, as shown in FIG. 50(D), since the operation promotion image 301 and the remaining effective period image 302 are configured to be larger in size than the accessory 200, they are not completely invisible. Partially visible at all times. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the player from missing the detection effective period (that is, the button advance notice effect).

Next, the accessory 200 moves to the initial position after being stopped at the effect position for a predetermined period (FIG. 50(E)). Here, the button advance notice effect is configured to end after the accessory effect. That is, the detection effective period of the button notice effect is configured to end after the period in which the operation promotion image and the remaining effective period image 202 are in a state where it is difficult to visually recognize them. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 50(E), the operation promoting image 301 and the remaining effective period image 302 are displayed on the effect display device even after the accessory 200 returns to the initial position, that is, after the difficult-to-view state is eliminated. It is displayed in 9. After that, when the operation of the push button 120 is detected, the character A saying the "chance!" line is displayed as a notice display (FIG. 50(F)).

In addition, in this embodiment, in the button notice effects A to C and the decision button effect, a display for reducing the scale of the gauge display is performed based on the detection of the operation of the push button 120, and the number of detection times is increased. When the predetermined number of times is reached, a notice display or a win/fail display is displayed. In addition to such control, for example, every time an operation of the push button 120 is detected, a sound effect is output or a predetermined image is displayed. The illuminator may be blinked or the like. Such a display for reducing the scale of the gauge display performed each time an operation is detected, output of sound effects, display of a predetermined image, blinking of a light emitter, and the like, are used for the button notice effects A to C and the decision button. It can be said that it is part of the production.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, the detection means (the push button 120 in this example) capable of detecting the motion of the player and the setting state related to the effect are the first state (in this example, the auto mode). Setting means that can be set to a state in which the button function is set to be disabled) or a second state (a state in which the automatic button function is set to be valid in this example), and a specific performance when the performance execution condition is satisfied. (In this example, a display for reducing the scale of the gauge display, a notification display, or a display of winning/disapproving display is made based on the detection of the operation of the push button 120 in the button notification effects A to C and the decision button effect. Specific effect executing means capable of executing (such as performing). Then, in the first state, the specific effect executing unit can execute the specific effect on the basis of the detection result of the detecting unit based on the detection result of the detecting unit, while in the second state, regardless of the detection result of the detecting unit. It is possible to execute the specific effect assuming that the effect execution condition is satisfied (in this example, when the auto button function is set to be effective, the advance notice display or the success/failure display is displayed even if the push button 120 is not operated. Is displayed, the display for reducing the scale of the gauge display, etc. are displayed (see FIGS. 36 to 37, 43 to 44, etc.). Further, the setting unit can change the setting from the first state to the second state based on the detection result of the detection unit during execution of the variable display (see, for example, steps S7103 to S7104 in FIG. 36). Therefore, it is possible to change the setting state related to the effect even while the variable display is being executed, and it is possible to prevent the interest from being lowered. That is, it is possible to change the setting state relating to the effect without temporarily interrupting the game, and it is possible to prevent the interest from being lowered due to the interruption.

Further, in this embodiment, in the second state, it is possible to execute the specific effect assuming that the effect execution condition is satisfied regardless of the detection result of the detection unit, and the effect execution condition is satisfied based on the detection result of the detection unit. Even if it does, the specific effect can be executed. Therefore, even when the second state is set, the detection result of the detection means can be reflected in the effect. In this embodiment, when the pressing operation is performed according to the button advance notice effect while the automatic button function is enabled, the automatic button function is immediately set to invalid, and the detected pressing operation is changed to the button advance notice effect. However, for example, when the auto button function is enabled, when the pressing operation is performed according to the button advance notice effect, the detected pressing operation is reflected in the button advance notice effect, and after the button advance notice effect is finished. The setting of the auto button function may be disabled.

In addition, in this embodiment, based on the detection result of the detection means, in the specific effect (in this example, in the button notice effect A to C or in the decided button effect, the operation of the push button 120 is detected, It is provided with a specific effect executing means capable of executing a display for reducing the scale of the gauge display, a notice display, a win/fail display, etc. Then, the specific effect execution means, in the first state, when the first effect execution condition in which one operation is continuously detected by the detection means is satisfied (in this example, the operation condition is determined by automatic continuous tapping by a long press operation). The specific effect can be executed when the second effect execution condition is satisfied (when the operation condition is satisfied) or when the second effect execution condition in which a plurality of continuous motions are detected by the detection unit is satisfied (in this example, the operation condition is satisfied by the continuous hit operation). On the other hand, in the second state, the specific effect can be executed regardless of the detection result of the detection means. Further, in the first state, the detection means performs one operation over a specific period (in this example, automatic continuous hitting start time by long press operation shown in FIGS. 32A and 32B, see FIG. 46A). Is continuously detected, the specific effect can be executed assuming that the first effect execution condition is satisfied, while the specific effect can be executed before the elapse of the specific period in the second state (FIG. 32(A. ), (B) and FIG. 46(B)). Therefore, the execution timing of the specific effect differs depending on the setting state related to the effect, so that the effect of the specific effect can be enhanced.

In this embodiment, the state in which “one operation continues” is a state in which the player continues the pressing operation of the operation means such as the push button 120 without interruption in the middle, The so-called long-press operation is applicable and does not include the so-called continuous hit operation.

Further, in this embodiment, in the second state, the specific effect can be executed regardless of the detection result of the detection means, and the specific effect can be executed even when the second effect execution condition is satisfied. Therefore, even when the second state is set, the detection result of the detection means can be reflected in the effect. In this embodiment, when the pressing operation is performed according to the button advance notice effect while the automatic button function is enabled, the automatic button function is immediately set to invalid, and the detected pressing operation is changed to the button advance notice effect. However, for example, when the auto button function is enabled, when the pressing operation is performed according to the button advance notice effect, the detected pressing operation is reflected in the button advance notice effect, and after the button advance notice effect is finished. The setting of the auto button function may be disabled.

Further, in this embodiment, the setting unit changes from the second state to the first state based on the detection of the first action (in this example, the pressing operation of the push button 120 (single-shot operation)) by the detecting unit. The setting can be changed, and the setting can be changed from the first state to the second state based on the detection of the second operation (in this example, long-pressing operation of the push button 120) by the detection unit. Therefore, the setting state can be easily changed.

In addition, in this embodiment, the special effect (in this example, the back button advance notice effect) can be executed based on the operation being detected by the detecting means during the special detection effective period without the notification for prompting the player to perform the operation. Equipped with special effect execution means. Then, the setting unit does not change the setting from the second state to the first state even if the detection unit detects an operation during the special detection valid period (see steps S7108, S7110, and S7111). Therefore, it is possible to prevent the player from making an unintended setting change.

In addition, in this embodiment, the effect setting means is provided which is capable of performing effect-related settings (background image setting in this example) based on the detection of the motion by the detecting means. Then, the setting means does not change the setting from the second state to the first state even when the detecting means detects an operation for setting the effect (see steps S7109, S7110, S7111). Therefore, it is possible to prevent the player from making an unintended setting change. In this embodiment, the background image can be set as the effect-related setting, but instead of or in addition to this, the effect execution frequency, volume, screen brightness, and the like can also be set. However, it is desirable not to change the setting from the second state to the first state even when the detection means (for example, the push button 120) for performing those settings is operated.

In addition, in this embodiment, the specific effect execution unit can execute a plurality of types of specific effects (for example, the button notice effects A to C, the decided button effect, and the like), and the specific effect execution means The timings at which the performance execution conditions are satisfied in the two states are different (see FIG. 33(B)). Therefore, the performance execution condition can be established at the timing suitable for the performance, and the performance effect can be enhanced.

Further, in this embodiment, the detection means includes an operation means (push button 120 in this example) that can be operated by the player, the operation means is operable, and based on the detection result of the operation means. The operation mode is different between when the performance effect is satisfied and the specific performance is executed, and when the performance effect is satisfied and the specific performance is executed regardless of the detection result of the operation means (steps S8144 to S8144A, S8153, see FIG. 43(7) and FIG. 44(7)). Therefore, the operation mode can be changed according to the process in which the effect execution condition is established, and the effect of the effect can be enhanced.

Further, in this embodiment, the specific effect executing means can execute the specific effect as if the effect executing condition is satisfied based on the detection of the motion by the detecting means during the detection effective period, and the setting means detects The setting is not changed from the first state to the second state even if the operation is detected by the detection means during the effective period (in this example, even if the long press operation is detected during the operation effective period in the button notice effect, the automatic button operation is performed). Function is not changed from disabled to enabled). Therefore, it is possible to prevent the player from making an unintended setting change.

In this embodiment, a detection valid period display indicating that the detection by the detection means is a valid detection valid period (in this example, a character string 202 such as “press the button!” shown in FIG. 43 or a gauge display). 203) is provided. If there is a case where the detection effective period display is in a visually difficult state in which at least a part is hidden by the production (for example, character effect, fade-out production, blackout production, etc.), the detection effective period is displayed as the detection effective period display. It may be finished after the period in which it is difficult to visually recognize. By doing so, the detection effective period display is displayed even after the difficult-to-recognize state is resolved, so that it is possible to prevent the detection by the detection means from being overlooked.

Further, in this embodiment, the push button 120 is configured to emit light in the special light emission mode when the function of the auto button is valid, and to emit in the normal light emission mode when the function of the auto button is invalid. However, the configuration is not limited to such a configuration, and the light may be emitted when the function of the auto button is valid and may not be emitted when the function of the auto button is invalid. Further, for example, when the function of the auto button is invalid, the light may be emitted only during the period when the operation is valid, and when the function of the auto button is valid, the light may be constantly emitted.

Further, although the case where the push button 120 is used as the operation means is shown in this embodiment, the present invention is not limited to such a mode. For example, as the operation means, an automatic continuous hitting function may be used when detecting a continuous push/pull operation of the stick controller 122, or an automatic continuous function may be used when detecting a continuous push/pull operation of the trigger button 121 of the stick controller 122. You may use the continuous hitting function. When using such various operating means, the automatic continuous hitting function can be applied.

Further, for example, the structure shown in this embodiment is applied not only to the case of detecting the operation by the operation means but also to a game machine provided with an infrared sensor or a photo sensor for detecting the motion of the player, for example. Good. In this case, for example, the automatic continuous hitting function may be used when the player's continued motion is detected by an infrared sensor or a photo sensor.

Further, when a plurality of detecting means (for example, push button 120, stick controller 122, infrared sensor, photo sensor, etc.) capable of detecting the motion of the player are provided, any of the detecting means is automatically operated. The function of the button may be enabled. In other words, if there is an effect that performs predetermined control based on the player's motion being detected by the infrared sensor, if the auto button function for the infrared sensor is set to be effective, the infrared sensor will The predetermined control may be performed even if the player's motion is not detected. In this case, the detection means may be collectively set by setting the auto button function to be enabled or disabled, or the auto button function may be enabled or disabled for each detection means. May be set to.

Further, for example, the detection start time and the detection interval by the auto button function may be different depending on the detection means. For example, since the push button and the infrared sensor have different mechanisms, the intervals at which the player's movements can be detected are different, but with such a configuration, the detection processing by the auto button function depends on the characteristics of each detection means. Can be done at speed.

Further, for example, with respect to the effect of performing the predetermined control based on the detection of the movement of the player by the infrared sensor, the effect may be advanced also by operating the push button 120. That is, the operation of the push button 120 may be reflected in the effect. With such a configuration, for example, the push button 120, which can easily perform continuous hitting operation, can be used in place of the detecting means such as the infrared sensor, which is hard to detect the movement continuously. Further, in such an effect, automatic continuous hitting by long-pressing the push button 120 may be effectively reflected in the effect. In this case, the detection process may be performed at the detection interval corresponding to the infrared sensor even if the automatic continuous hitting is performed by long-pressing the push button 120.

Further, in the present embodiment, the case where the advance notice display in the button advance notice effect and the win/fail display in the decided button effect are performed as the specific effect to which the auto button is applied is shown, but the present invention is not limited to such a mode. For example, in the case of an effect involving detection of some operation or action, the function of the auto button shown in this embodiment may be applied when performing an effect other than the button advance effect or the set button effect. .. In addition, for example, in the case of performing an effect accompanied by detection of some operation or action as an effect executed when the variable display is not being performed (for example, when a customer waiting demonstration is being displayed), or as an effect during a big hit game, You may make it use the function of an auto button in the production.

In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 32(A) and 32(B), the button advance notice effect B having a shorter operation detection interval due to automatic continuous hitting is compared with the button notice effect A having a longer detection interval, The expectation (reliability) for big hits is low. Therefore, in this embodiment, the lower the degree of expectation (reliability) for a big hit, the shorter the detection interval of the operation by automatic continuous hits, and the number of operations is counted at a fast pitch, so the timing at which the operation condition is met is established. Is getting faster. Note that, not limited to the mode shown in this embodiment, conversely, the effect of lowering the expectation (reliability) for the big hit may be configured such that the detection interval of the operation by the automatic continuous hit becomes longer. ..

Further, in this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 32A and 32B, the button advance notice effect B in which the time from the start of long-pressing to the start of detection by automatic continuous hits is shorter is automatic. The expectation (reliability) for the big hit is lower than that of the button advance notice effect A in which the detection by repeated hits takes a long time. Therefore, in this embodiment, the lower the degree of expectation (reliability) for a big hit, the shorter the time from the start of long press until the detection of automatic continuous hits starts, and the detection of automatic continuous hits starts earlier. Therefore, the timing at which the operating condition is satisfied is earlier. In addition, not limited to the mode shown in this embodiment, conversely, the production with a lower expectation (reliability) for the big hit is configured so that the time until the detection by the automatic continuous hit is started becomes longer. I don't mind.

In this embodiment, as a case where the time until the detection by the automatic repeated hits is started or the detection interval of the operation in the automatic repeated hits is changed depending on the situation, the setting condition of the automatic button or the type of the button notice effect is changed. Although a case has been described in which the time until the detection by the automatic repeated hits is started and the detection interval are made different, the present invention is not limited to such a mode. For example, the time until the detection by the automatic repeated hits or the detection interval of the operation in the automatic repeated hits may be changed depending on whether the gaming state is the probability change state, the time saving state, or the high base state.

Aspect of [Operation means operable by player] As the operation means operable by the player, for example, the stick controller 122 can be used. Further, a player detection sensor can be provided as an operation means that can be operated by the player.
The player detection sensor may detect the player instead of the operation of the stick controller 122 or the push button 120, or in combination with the operation of the stick controller 122 or the push button 120. Also, a plurality of player detection sensors may be used in combination.

The detection target of the player detection sensor may be, for example, approach of the body of the player, movement of the body of the player, voice of the player, or the like.
The approach of the player's body or the movement of the player's body, which is a detection target, includes, for example, approach of the player's hand, contact of the player's hand, shaking of the player's hand, or hand-over of the player's hand. It may be a movement of a hand, a facial expression of the player such as the player's smile or the player's opening, or a gesture using the player's body.
For example, a proximity sensor, a television camera, a radar device, or the like can be used as the player detection sensor.
For example, the proximity sensor can detect the approach or separation of a part of the player's body. A capacitance sensor, an infrared sensor, a laser sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, or the like may be used as the proximity sensor.
Further, the television camera can detect facial expressions, gestures, etc. of the player's face by analyzing the image of the player's body. As the television camera, one camera or a plurality of cameras can be used.
The radar device can detect the approach or separation of a part of the player's body.
A microphone can be used to detect the player's voice. The microphone can detect the utterance of the player and the operation (for example, tapping sound) of the player near the microphone.
As described above, as long as the player can operate the operation means, the operation means may be operated by contact with the player or may be operated by the player without contact.

Aspect of [Detection Means Detecting Player's Action] On the other hand, the detector capable of detecting the player's action may be any one that detects the “action” of the player. The action of the player may include an action explicitly performed by the player and an action not explicitly performed by the player.
The operation explicitly performed by the player detected by the detection means is an operation in which the player explicitly operates the operation means, and an operation when the player does not explicitly operate the operation means. Can be included. The operation in which the player explicitly operates the operating means includes, for example, an operation in which the player presses the push button 120 and an operation in which the player brings his or her hand close to the infrared proximity sensor. Further, the operation when the player does not explicitly operate the operation means includes, for example, an operation in which the player makes a predetermined gesture with respect to the television camera and an operation to make a predetermined facial expression.
The operation which is not explicitly performed by the player and which is detected by the detection means is, for example, the existence itself of the player which is detected by the television camera or the proximity sensor. For example, the detection means may detect whether or not the player is seated by using a television camera or an infrared sensor.

Aspect of [Demonstration According to Operation of Operation Means] In this embodiment, as an effect according to the operation of the operation means, a demonstration aspect after the button operation is exemplified, but the effect according to the operation of the operation means is this. Not limited.
For example, in this embodiment, the effect mode of the operation effect executed during the variable display period during which the effect symbols are variably displayed has been described, but the operation effect may be performed during a period other than the variable display period. For example, the operation effect can be executed during a period during which a round is being executed in the big hit game state, a period during which an ending effect is executed at the end of the big hit game state, or the like.

[Informing means for informing the player of the effective operation period]
In this embodiment, an example in which the gauge display is displayed on the effect display device 9 is used as the informing means for informing the player that the operation is in effect, but the informing means for informing the player in the operation is in effect. It is not limited to this.
For example, as the notification means, the player may be notified of the operation valid period by inflating the balloon with the lapse of the operation valid period and displaying an effect on the effect display device 9 in which the balloon is broken at the end of the operation valid period.
In addition, as an informing unit, the sand of the hourglass is dropped as the operation valid period elapses, and the effect display unit 9 displays an effect that the sand drop ends with the end of the operation valid period, thereby giving the player the operation valid period. You may notify.
Furthermore, as an informing means, the insect is allowed to eat the apple with the lapse of the operation effective period, and the effect display device 9 displays the effect that the apple is consumed up with the end of the operation effective period, thereby displaying the operation effective period. May be notified.
Further, the player may be notified of the operation valid period by changing the lighting state of the game effect lamp 9. For example, by changing the lighting state of the lamp provided on the push button 120 from a slow blinking state to a fast blinking state, the player can be notified of the operation valid period.
Further, the player may be notified of the operation valid period by a sound output from the speaker 27.

In the above-described embodiment, in order to notify the effect control microcomputer 100 of a change pattern indicating a change time and a change mode such as the type of reach effect and the presence/absence of pseudo-relation, it is set to 1 when starting the change. Although an example of transmitting one fluctuation pattern command is shown, the fluctuation pattern may be notified to the effect control microcomputer 100 by two or more commands. Specifically, in the case of notifying by two commands, the game control microcomputer 560 determines whether the first command is the presence or absence of pseudo-relation, the presence or absence of sliding effect, etc. A command indicating the variation time and variation mode before the second stop is transmitted, and the second command indicates the type of the reach and the presence/absence of re-lottery production, etc., after the reach (so-called the first when the reach is not reached). You may make it transmit the command which shows the fluctuation|variation time and the fluctuation mode of (after 2 stop). In this case, the effect control microcomputer 100 may perform effect control in the 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 notifies the variation time by each of the two commands, and the effect control microcomputer 100 selects the specific variation mode executed at each timing. You may When sending two commands, 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 interrupt). (In) the second command may be transmitted. Note that the variation mode indicated by each command is not limited to this example, and the transmission order can be changed as appropriate. By thus notifying the variation pattern by using two or more commands, it is possible to reduce the amount of data that must be stored as the variation pattern command.

Further, in the above-mentioned embodiment, “the ratio is different” is not limited to only the ratio being different due to the relationship such as A:B=70%:30% or A:B=30%:70%. It is a concept that also includes a ratio such that A:B=100%:0% and the ratio is different (that is, one is 100% allocation and the other is 0% allocation).

Further, in the above-described embodiment, a case is shown in which, for example, a plurality of types of special symbols, “1” to “9”, special symbols, effect symbols, and normal symbols are variably displayed and the display result is derived and displayed. It is not limited to such an aspect. For example, the variably displayed symbol does not necessarily have to be the same as the derived and displayed symbol, and a symbol different from the variably displayed symbol may be derived and displayed. Further, it is not always necessary to variably display a plurality of types of symbols, and variable display may be executed using only one type of symbol. In this case, for example, the variable display may be executed by alternately turning on and blinking the one type of symbol display. And, even in this case, one type of symbol used for the variable display may be displayed and displayed last, or a symbol different from that one type may be displayed and displayed last. It may be one.

Further, in the above embodiment, the effect control board 80, the sound output board 70, and the lamp driver board 35 are provided as the boards on which the circuit for controlling the effect device is mounted. You may mount on one board. Furthermore, 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 (a lamp, an LED, a speaker 27, etc.) are installed. You may make it provide two boards, such as two effect control boards.

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 of the circuit mounted on the sound output board 70 and the function of 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 microcomputer 100 for effect control in the effect 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 sound output board 70, the lamp driver board 35, and the sound/lamp board so that the control means receives the command. In response to this, control related to voice control and lamp control is executed, and the received command is changed as it is or, for example, to a simplified command, and the effect control microcomputer 100 controls the effect display device 9. 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 each of the above-described embodiments, similarly to the sound output board 70 and the lamp. Display control can be performed according to commands received from the driver board 35 or the sound/lamp board.

Further, in the above-described embodiment, a pachinko machine is used as an example of the gaming machine, but the present invention has a plurality of types depending on the operation of the operation lever by the player when a predetermined number of bets is set by inserting a medal. When the symbols are rotated and the symbols are stopped in response to the player's operation of the stop button and the combination of the symbols is a specific symbol combination, a predetermined number of medals are applied to the player. It is also possible.

Further, in the above-described embodiment, the one using the game medium as the game machine is taken as an example, but the game machine according to the present invention is not limited to the game machine for paying out a predetermined number of game media as prizes, and a game ball. It can also be applied to an enclosed game machine that encloses a game medium such as, and gives a score when the condition for giving a prize is satisfied.

Further, in the above embodiment, there are probability variation big hit and normal big hit as the big hit type, and based on the fact that it was decided as the probability variation big hit as the big hit type, the gaming machine shown in the probability variation state after the big hit game has been shown. , But is not limited to such gaming machines. For example, a special variable winning ball device having a predetermined probability variation area provided therein (the probability variable area may be provided in only one special variable winning ball device, or a plurality of special variable prize balls may be provided). Probability variation area may be provided in part of the device), the probability variation is determined based on the game ball passing through the probability variation area in the special variable winning ball device during the big hit game, and the big hit game It is also possible to apply the configuration shown in each of the above-described embodiments to the gaming machine that is controlled to the probable state after the end.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY The present invention is suitably applied to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine in which a player can play a predetermined game.

1 Pachinko gaming machine 8a 1st special symbol display 8b 2nd special symbol display 9 production display device 13 1st start winning a prize hole 14 2nd starting winning a prize hole 18c total pending storage display section 20 special variable winning a prize ball device 31 game control board (Main board)
56 CPU
560 Microcomputer for game control 80 Performance control board 100 Microcomputer for performance control 101 CPU for performance control
109 VDP
120 push buttons

Claims (2)

A gaming machine with variable display,
A detection means capable of detecting at least the first motion and the second motion;
Setting means capable of setting the setting state relating to performance to the first state or the second state,
And a specific effect execution means capable of executing a specific effect when the effect execution condition is satisfied,
The specific effect executing means,
In the first state, it is possible to execute the specific effect based on the detection result of the detection means as if the effect execution condition is satisfied.
In the second state, it is possible to execute the specific effect on the assumption that the effect execution condition is satisfied regardless of the detection result of the detection means,
The setting means,
It is possible to change the setting from the first state to the second state based on the detection result of the detection means during execution of variable display,
The setting can be changed from the second state to the first state based on the detection of the first motion by the detection means, and the setting can be changed based on the detection of the second motion by the detection means. The setting can be changed from the first state to the second state,
When the information for performing the setting regarding the predetermined effect is displayed, the first state is changed to the first state from the second state based on the detection of the first motion by the detection unit when the predetermined condition is satisfied. The setting can be changed to a state, and the setting is not changed from the second state to the first state even when the detecting unit detects the first motion when the predetermined condition is not satisfied. A gaming machine to do. The gaming machine according to claim 1,
A special effect executing means capable of executing a special effect based on the operation being detected by the detecting means in the special detection effective period without notification of urging the player to move,
The game machine characterized in that the setting means does not change the setting from the second state to the first state when an operation is detected by the detecting means during the special detection valid period.

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