JP6718675B2 - Amusement machine - Google Patents

Description

The present invention performs a variable display, about the control that can be a game machine to an advantageous advantageous state for Yu technique's.

As a gaming machine, a game ball, which is a game medium, is launched into the 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 number of prize balls are paid out to the player. There is something to be done. Further, a variable display device capable of variably displaying identification information (also referred to as “fluctuation”) is provided, and when the display result of the variable display of the identification information on the variable display device is the specific display result, the gaming state (game Therefore, there is a machine configured to give a predetermined game value to a player by changing the state of the machine (specifically, the state in which the game machine is controlled) (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 variable display of 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 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).

Note that the game value is a right for a state in which a state of a variable winning ball device provided in a game area of a gaming machine is advantageous for a player who easily wins a hit ball, or for an advantageous state for a player. Is generated, and the condition for paying out prize balls is easily established.

In the pachinko game machine, as a display result of the variable display of the special symbol (identification information), which is started on the variable display device based on the fact that the game ball has won at the starting winning opening, a predetermined specific display mode is derived and displayed. When it is done, "big hit" occurs. The derivation display means that the symbol (final stop symbol) is finally stopped and displayed. When a big hit occurs, for example, the big winning opening is opened a predetermined number of times, and a big hit game state in which 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 of opening the special winning opening is fixed to a predetermined number (for example, 15 rounds). Note that the opening time (for example, 29 seconds) is determined for each opening, and even if the number of winnings does not reach the predetermined number, the special winning opening is closed when the opening time elapses. Hereinafter, the opening period of each special winning opening may be referred to as a round. Also, a game in a round may be called a round game.

Further, in the variable display device, the symbols other than the symbol that is the final stop symbol (for example, the middle symbol in the left-middle-right symbol) continue for a predetermined period of time, and stop and shake in a state of being consistent with a specific display result. It is possible that a big hit occurs before the final result is displayed, because it is moving, scaling or deforming, or multiple symbols fluctuate in sync with the same symbol, or the positions of the displayed symbols are swapped. The production performed in a state in which the sex continues (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. Further, 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 variable display device is not the specific display result, the result is “out”, and the variable display state ends. A player plays a game while enjoying how to generate a big hit.

As such a gaming machine, a variable display of the identification information that has not been started is stored as a hold storage, a hold display corresponding to the hold storage is displayed, and the display mode of the hold display is changed and displayed (preliminary notice). There is one that performs an effect (see Patent Document 1). In Patent Document 1, when performing an effect on a plurality of holding memories, it is stored later than the reliability of the effect for the previously stored holding memory. It is disclosed that the reduction of the reliability of the effect on the reserved memory is reduced. Due to such a limitation, when the variable display of the identification information based on the previously stored pending storage is missed, the pending storage that is the target of the less reliable production does not remain. , Since the pending storage that is the target of the production with higher reliability remains (the production with low reliability is limited, only the production with high reliability is performed), so that the expectation of the player is maintained. ..

JP, 2011-45511, A

However, since the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1 always applies the same restriction when the hold display is displayed in a specific display mode, the effect may be monotonous.

Therefore, it is an object of the present invention to provide a gaming machine that can prevent the production from becoming monotonous and enhance the interest even if a predetermined limitation is placed on the hold display.

(Means 1) The gaming machine according to the present invention is a gaming machine that performs variable display and can be controlled in an advantageous state advantageous to the player (for example, a big hit gaming state), and stores information relating to the variable display as pending storage. Hold storage means (for example, the first hold storage buffer or the second hold storage buffer), and a determination means for determining whether or not to be controlled in an advantageous state (for example, the game control microcomputer 560 executes steps S218A and S218B) And a hold display unit (for example, the first hold storage display unit 18c or the second hold storage display unit 18d) that displays a hold display corresponding to the hold storage stored in the hold storage unit, The hold display means can display the hold display by any of a plurality of types of display modes (for example, the first mode, the second mode, or the third mode) different from the normal mode, based on the determination of the determination means. When one hold display is displayed in a specific display mode (for example, the third mode) different from the normal mode, another hold display different from the one hold display is different from the normal mode. The normal mode is further provided with a limiting unit (for example, a part where the effect control microcomputer 100 executes steps S911 to S915b and S911 to S923b) for restricting display in the display mode (for example, the third mode). The plurality of different display modes include a first display mode and a second display mode in which the ratio of being controlled to an advantageous state is higher than that of the first display mode, and the limiting means is a normal state and the normal state. It is possible to restrict different contents depending on the high-frequency state in which the variable display is executed more frequently than the variable display. In the normal state, when one hold display is displayed in the first display mode, While another hold display different from the hold display of No. 1 is restricted from being displayed in the second display mode, another hold display different from the one hold display can be displayed in the first display mode. In the high-frequency state, the number of hold displays displayed in a display mode different from the normal mode is limited, and when one hold display is displayed in the second display mode, Another hold display different from the hold display is restricted from being displayed in the second display mode, and the advantageous state is the first advantageous state and the second advantageous state that is more advantageous to the player than the first advantageous state. , And the hold display means has a display mode different from the normal mode based on the determination means determining that the hold display means is controlled to the first advantageous state. It is characterized in that the rate of displaying the stay indication is different between the normal state and the high-frequency state.
With such a configuration, the suspended display can be restricted in a plurality of modes, so that the production can be prevented from becoming monotonous and the interest can be enhanced.

In (unit 2) means 1, the variable display time selection means for selecting from the variable display of the variable display times of a plurality kinds of predetermined time to perform a variable display (eg, execution game control microcomputer 560 the step S100 Part) to be provided.
With such a configuration, the variable display time can be appropriately selected.

In (unit 3) means 1 or means 2, configured with a special image corresponding to the variable display that is running (e.g., active hold display) Special display means for displaying (e.g., active hold display unit 18e) It may have been done.
According to such a configuration, it is possible to easily recognize that the variable display is performed.

In (unit 4) means 3 from unit 1, a first time period to perform a variable display in a short variable display time a first rate (eg period is controlled to a low base state) than the proportion of the first There are a second period to execute the variable display at a high rate in a short variable display time (e.g. time that is controlled with high base state), limiting means, in the first and second periods, limit It may be configured to have different modes.
With such a configuration, it is possible to make a limit suitable for each period.

In (unit 5) means 4 from unit 1, a first time period to perform a variable display in a short variable display time first rate, variable display in a short variable display time at a higher rate than the rate of the first And the hold display means displays the hold display in a different manner between the first period and the second period (for example, a square display when controlled to a low base state). , Are displayed in a circle when being controlled to a high base state).
According to such a configuration, since the hold display is displayed in a different mode, it is possible to enhance the interest.

In unit 5 (means 6) means 1, equipped with a special display means for displaying a special image corresponding to the variable display that is running a special display means, pending which correspond to the restriction by the restriction means is made hold display when based on the stored variable display is performed, identified by any of the easily changing the special image in a specific manner (e.g. first aspect to third aspect) (for example, the first representation embodiment to third representation embodiment The effect may be executed (see FIG. 36).
According to such a configuration, even pending memory which correspond to the restriction by the restriction means is made hold display, it is possible to enhance the interest when variable display based on the hold memory is running.

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 constitution 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 CPU in a main board performs. It is a flow chart which shows 2ms timer interruption processing. 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 explanatory drawing which shows the fluctuation pattern prepared previously. It is explanatory drawing which shows a fluctuation pattern determination table. It is the explanation drawing which shows one example of the contents of production control command. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the content of the determination result designation command at the time of winning. 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 reservation buffer. It is a flowchart showing a winning determination process. It is a flowchart showing a special symbol normal process. It is a flowchart showing a special symbol normal process. 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 variation. It is a flowchart showing a special symbol stop process. It is a flowchart showing a big hit ending process. It is the flowchart which shows the production control main processing which CPU for production control 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 a flow chart which shows command analysis processing. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of the area|region (a prize determination result storage buffer) which saves the determination result at the time of winning. It is the flowchart which shows production control process treatment. It is a flow chart which shows reservation mode decision processing. It is explanatory drawing which shows a reservation mode determination table. It is a flow chart which shows reservation display execution processing. It is a flow chart which shows reservation display execution processing. 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 a flow chart which shows specific production setting processing. It is an explanatory view showing a specific effect mode determination table. 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 the flowchart which shows the production design fluctuation process. It is the explanation drawing which shows the concrete example of reservation production and specific production. It is a flow chart which shows the modification of reservation display execution processing. It is explanatory drawing which shows a specific mode determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example of a specific production notice.

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

The pachinko gaming machine 1 is composed of an outer frame (not shown) formed in a vertically long rectangular shape, and a game frame that is openably and closably attached to the inside of the outer frame. Further, the pachinko gaming machine 1 has a frame-shaped glass door frame 2 which is openably and closably provided in the game frame. The game frame includes a front frame (not shown) installed to be openable and closable with respect to the outer frame, a mechanism plate (not shown) to which mechanical parts and the like are attached, and various parts attached to them (game 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 tray) 4 is formed in a stick shape (bar shape) at a predetermined position on the front side of the upper surface of the lower tray body (for example, the central portion of the lower tray), for example, and 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 operation by a push/pull operation with a predetermined operation finger (for example, an index finger) while the player holds the operation rod of the stick controller 122 with an operation hand (for example, left hand). A trigger button 121 (see FIG. 3) capable of performing an instruction operation is provided, and a trigger sensor 125 (see FIG. 3) for detecting a predetermined instruction operation such as push-pull operation on the trigger button 121 is provided inside the operation rod of the stick controller 122. 3) is built in. Further, a tilt direction sensor unit 123 (see FIG. 3) for detecting a tilt operation with respect to the operating rod is provided inside the main body of the lower plate and the like 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 plate (upper plate) 3, for example, the player performs a predetermined instruction operation by a pressing operation at a predetermined position on the front side of the upper plate 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 an operation action of the player 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 portions 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 either 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.

Near the center of the game area 7, a performance 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 performing variable display of effect symbols 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 that variably displays the 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 status of the game. ..

Further, in the effect display device 9, the symbols other than the symbol to be the final stop symbol (for example, the middle symbol among the left and right middle symbols) are continued for a predetermined time, and the big hit symbols (for example, the left, middle, and right symbols are arranged in the same symbol). In the state of matching with the combination of symbols), the state of being stopped, swinging, scaling or deforming, or a plurality of symbols fluctuating in synchronization with the same symbol, or the positions of the display symbols are exchanged. 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. Further, 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 in the effect display device 9 is shown, but the effect performed in the effect display device 9 is the one shown in this embodiment. Not limited to this, for example, an effect having a predetermined storyliness property may be executed, and an effect may be executed in which the result of the story is displayed based on the result of the jackpot determination and the variation pattern determination. For example, while performing a professional wrestling or soccer game or a battle production in which an enemy or an ally character fights, perform an action to win the game or battle if it is a big hit, and perform an action to lose the game or battle if it is out of the way. Good. Further, for example, instead of displaying the results such as winning or losing, it is possible to execute an effect in which a predetermined story such as a story is developed in order.

On the right side 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 the numbers 0-9. That is, the first special symbol display device 8a is configured to variably display numbers (or symbols) from 0 to 9. Further, on the right side of the effect display device 9 (on the right side of the first special symbol display device 8a), a second special symbol display device (second variable display portion) 8b that variably displays the second special symbol as 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 to 9. That is, the second special symbol display device 8b is configured to variably display numbers (or symbols) from 0 to 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. Further, the first special symbol display device 8a and the second special symbol display device 8b may be respectively 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 pending storage is not 0, the 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 or 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, a variable winning ball device 15 having a second starting winning opening 14 in which a game ball can be won is provided. The game ball that has won the second start winning opening (second starting opening) 14 is guided to the back surface of the game board 6 and detected by the second starting opening switch 14a. The variable winning ball device 15 is opened by the solenoid 16. When the variable winning ball device 15 is opened, the game balls can be won into the second starting winning opening 14 (starting winning is easy), which is advantageous for the player. In the state where the variable winning ball device 15 is in the open state, the game balls are easier to win in the second starting winning 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 start winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14 may be collectively referred to as a starting winning opening or a starting opening.

When the variable winning ball device 15 is controlled to be in an open state, the game ball heading for the variable winning ball device 15 is extremely easy to win in the second start 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 displaying device 9 and the first start 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 The winning rate of the first starting winning port 13 may be set higher.

In addition, in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, the variable winning ball apparatus 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 by 1 each time there is an effective start winning. Then, each time the variable display on the second special symbol display device 8b is started, the number of lighted display devices is reduced by one.

Further, above the second special symbol reserved memory display 18b, the number of effective winning balls that have entered the first starting winning opening 13, that is, the first reserved memory number (the reserved memory is also referred to as a starting memory or a starting winning memory. ) 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 first reserved storage display unit 18c for displaying the first reserved storage number and a second reserved storage display unit 18d for displaying the second reserved storage number are provided. There is. Hereinafter, the first pending storage display unit 18c and the second pending storage display unit 18d may be collectively referred to as a pending storage display unit. Further, the display of the first reserved storage number on the first reserved storage display unit 18c may be referred to as a first reserved display, and the display of the second reserved storage number on the second reserved storage display unit 18d may be referred to as a second reserved display. .. Further, the first hold display and the second hold display may be collectively referred to as a hold display. It should be noted that, instead of the first reserved storage display section 18c and the second reserved storage display section 18d, a summed reservation that displays a total number (total reserved storage number) that is the sum of the first reserved storage number and the second reserved storage number. A memory display unit may be provided. According to this structure, since the total pending storage display unit for displaying the total number is provided, it is possible to easily grasp the total number of satisfied execution conditions for which the variable display start condition is not satisfied. .. Further, in such a configuration, in the total pending storage display section, the first pending memory and the second pending memory are displayed side by side in the winning order to the first starting winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14, and It is configured to be displayed in such a manner that it can be recognized whether it is the first reserved memory or the second reserved memory (for example, the first reserved memory is displayed in red and the second reserved memory is displayed in blue). It is desirable to do.

Further, in the lower part of the display screen of the effect display device 9, an active hold display section 18e is provided separately from the first hold storage display section 18c and the second hold storage display section 18d. In this embodiment, the active hold display section 18e displays the active hold display corresponding to the variable display being executed.

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 device 8a and the variable display of the effect symbol on the effect display device 9 are synchronized. Also, 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, the effect symbol is reminiscent of 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 device 8a, the specific display result (big hit symbol) on the second special symbol display device 8b. In the specific game state (big hit game state) that occurs when is displayed and displayed, the open/close plate is controlled by the solenoid 21 to be in the open state, so that the special winning opening, which is the winning area, is in the open state. The game ball that has won the special winning opening is detected by the count switch 23.

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 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. In addition, the normal symbol display device 10 is not limited to a 7-segment LED, but 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 on the normal symbol display device 10 is started. And when the stop symbol in 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 game ball can be won in the second start 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, there is provided a normal symbol hold storage display device 41 having a display section with four LEDs for displaying the number of winning balls that have passed through the gate 32. Every time there is a passage of the game ball to the gate 32, that is, every time the game ball is detected by the gate switch 32a, the normal symbol reservation storage display 41 increases the number of LEDs to be turned on by one. Then, every time the variable display of the normal symbol display device 10 is started, the number of LEDs to be turned on is reduced by 1. Furthermore, the probability change state that is more likely to be decided as a big jackpot 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 the special symbol 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 game state in which the variable display time of the special symbol is shortened) in which the symbol variation time is shortened, although not in the probability changing state, the opening time and the number of times of opening the variable winning ball device 15 are increased.

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 voice as a predetermined voice 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 game machine drives a drive motor in response to a player operating a hit ball operation handle 5, and uses a rotational force of the drive motor to shoot a game ball into a game area 7 (not shown). ) Is provided. The game ball shot from the hit ball launching device enters the game area 7 through a hit ball rail formed in a circular shape so as to surround the game area 7, and then 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, That 1 start condition is established), 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 winning in 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 balls easily start winning (that is, special symbol display devices 8a, 8b and effects). The execution condition of the variable display on the display device 9 is easily established), and the state is shifted to a high base state (high frequency state) which is a game state controlled. Also, when the gaming state is shifted to the time saving state, it 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 in which the variable winning ball device 15 is in the open state is longer than in the case of not being in the high base state. It will be easier to win the starting prize.

Note that the variable winning ball device 15 does not extend the time in which it is in the open state (also referred to as the open extension state), but shifts to the normal symbol probability changing state in which the probability that the stop symbol in the normal symbol display 10 will be a winning symbol is increased. Therefore, the high base state may be set. When the stop symbol in the normal symbol display 10 becomes a predetermined symbol (hit symbol), the variable winning ball device 15 is opened a predetermined number of times 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 hit 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 win a prize). 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 a normal symbol time saving state in which the variation time (variable display period) of the normal symbol in 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 apparatus 15 increases to the open state, 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 being played (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 (transfer to high base state) May be. In addition, 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 is also possible to change 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. The 1-chip microcomputer has at least the RAM 55 in addition to the CPU 56, and the ROM 54 may be external or internal. 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 a 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.

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

The random number circuit 503 is a hardware circuit used to generate a random number for determination for determining 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) the numerical data, the numerical data read has a random number generating function.

The random number circuit 503 selects and sets the update range of numerical data (initial value selection setting function and upper limit selection setting function), numerical data update rule selection setting function, and 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 providing the game control microcomputer 560 with detection signals from the gate switch 32a, the first starting port switch 13a, the second starting port switch 14a, and the count switch 23 is also mounted on the main board 31. Further, the output circuit 59 for driving the solenoid 16 that opens and closes the variable winning ball device 15 and the solenoid 21 that opens and closes 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 reservation storage The display control of the display 18a, the second special symbol hold storage display 18b and the normal symbol hold storage display 41 is performed.

An information output circuit 64 that outputs an information output signal such as big hit information indicating occurrence of a big hit game state to an external device such as a hall computer is also mounted on the main board 31.

In this embodiment, the effect control means (composed of effect control microcomputer) mounted on the effect control board 80 instructs the effect content from the game control microcomputer 560 via the relay board 77. The 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 of.

The effect control means is also connected to a trigger sensor 125 and a tilt direction sensor unit 123 included in the stick controller 122, a vibrator motor 126, and a push sensor 124 included in the push button 120, as described later. (See FIG. 3), but is not shown in FIG.

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 sound output board 70 are not equipped with a microcomputer, but may be equipped with a microcomputer. Further, without providing the lamp driver board 35 and the sound output board 70, only the effect control board 80 may be provided for effect control.

The production control board 80 is equipped with a production control CPU 101 and a production control microcomputer 100 including a RAM for storing information on production such as production 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, the VDP 109 that cooperates with the effect control microcomputer 100 to control the display of the effect display device 9 is mounted on the effect control board 80. The VDP 109 has an address space independent of the effect control microcomputer 100, and maps the VRAM therein. VRAM is a buffer memory for expanding image data. Then, the VDP 109 outputs the image data in the VRAM to the effect display device 9 via the frame memory.

The effect control CPU 101 outputs to the VDP 109 a command for reading necessary data from a CGROM (not shown) in accordance with the received effect control command. The CGROM stores in advance character image data and moving image data displayed on the effect display device 9, specifically, characters, characters, figures and symbols (including effect patterns), and background image data. ROM for this. The VDP 109 reads the image data from the CGROM in accordance with the instruction 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 a signal direction restricting means, the signal input from the main board 31 is allowed to pass through the relay board 77 only in the direction toward the effect control board 80 (the signal is not passed in the direction from the effect control board 80 to the relay board 77). The unidirectional circuit 74 is mounted. 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 (on the side of the game control microcomputer 560). The output port 571 is a part of the I/O port unit 57 shown in FIG. Further, a signal driver circuit 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, which is an information signal indicating that the player's operation of 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 107. .. 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 the light emitting body such as the frame LED 28 based on the 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 synthesizing IC 703 generates a voice or a sound effect according 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 an 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. (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 a normal initialization process (steps S10 to S15).

If the clear switch is not on, check whether the backup RAM area data protection process (eg, power supply stop process such as addition of parity data) was performed when power supply to the gaming machine was stopped. Yes (step S7). After confirming that such protection processing is not performed, the CPU 56 executes initialization processing. Whether or not there is backup data in the backup RAM area is confirmed by, for example, the state of the backup flag set in the backup RAM area in 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. Initialized data is set in the backup setting table for the areas that may be initialized in the work area. By the processing of steps S41 and S42, the stored contents of the work area that should not be initialized are left as they are. The part that should not be initialized is, for example, data indicating the game state before the power supply is stopped (special symbol process flag, probability variation flag, time saving flag, etc.), the area where the output state of the output port is saved (output port buffer ), a 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). Then, the process proceeds to step S14.

In this embodiment, both the backup flag and the check data are used to confirm whether or not the data in the backup RAM area is stored, but only one of them may be used. That is, either the backup flag or the check data may be used as a trigger for executing the game state recovery process.

In the initialization process, the CPU 56 first performs a RAM clear process (step S10). By the RAM clearing process, predetermined data (for example, data of the count value of the counter for generating the random number for normal symbol determination) is initialized to 0, but an arbitrary value or a predetermined value It may be initialized to. Further, the predetermined area (for example, the data of the count value of the counter for generating the normal symbol per determination random number) may be left as it is without initializing the entire area of the RAM 55. 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 storage buffer, a special symbol process flag, etc. Initially set to a flag for selectively performing processing according to the control state. The value is set.

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

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

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 periodically taken every predetermined time (for example, 2 ms). That is, a value corresponding to, for example, 2 ms is set in a predetermined register (time constant register) as an initial value. In this embodiment, it is assumed that a timer interrupt is taken every 2 ms.

When the execution of the initialization process (steps S10 to S15) is completed, the CPU 56 repeatedly executes the display random number updating process (step S17) and the initial value random number updating process (step S18) in the main process. When the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process are executed, the interrupt prohibited state is set (step S16), and when the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process are completed, the interrupt permitted state is set. It is set (step S19). In this embodiment, the display random number is a random number for determining the stop symbol of the special symbol when not a big hit and a random number for determining whether to reach when the big hit is not performed. The random number updating process is a process of updating the count value of the counter for generating the display random number. The initial value random number updating process is a process of updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number. In this embodiment, the random number for the initial value is the initial value of the count value of the counter for generating a random number for determining whether or not to win the normal symbol (normal symbol per-determination random number generation counter). 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 the game display device, the variable winning ball device, the ball payout device, and other game devices provided in the game machine by itself. In the process of, or the process of transmitting a command signal to control other microcomputer, 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 per symbol is determined) If the number of steps between the minimum and maximum possible values has been increased), the initial value is set to that counter.

In this embodiment, the reach effect is executed by using effect symbols variably displayed on the effect display device 9. Further, when the display result of the special symbol is a big hit symbol, the reach effect is always executed. When the display result of the special symbol is not a big hit symbol, the game control microcomputer 560 determines whether to execute the reach effect by lottery using a random number. However, it is the production control microcomputer 100 that actually executes the reach production control.

When the timer interrupt occurs, the CPU 56 executes the timer interrupt process of steps S20 to S34 shown in FIG. In the timer interrupt process, first, a power-off detection process is executed to detect whether a power-off signal has been output (whether the power-on signal 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 is output, the CPU 56 executes the power-supply-stop-time process for storing 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 in accordance with the contents of the output buffer set in steps S32 and S33. Execute control.

In addition, a process of 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 processing, 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 executed in accordance with the corresponding process. 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 the 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 for 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 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 (prize ball number signal) indicating the number of prize 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). The CPU 56, for example, when the start flag set in the special symbol process processing is set, until the end flag is set, if the fluctuating speed is 1 frame/0.2 seconds, every 0.2 seconds elapses. Then, the value of the display control data set in the output buffer is incremented by one. Further, the CPU 56 outputs the drive signal in step S22 in accordance with the display control data set in the output buffer, and thus the first special symbol in the first special symbol display device 8a and the second special symbol display device 8b and Variable display of the second special symbol is executed.

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

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

By the above control, in this embodiment, the game control process is activated every 2 ms. The game control process corresponds to the process of steps S21 to S33 (excluding step S29) in the timer interrupt process. Further, in this embodiment, the game control process is executed 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 started 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 design is referred to as a variable display mode of "non-reach" (also referred to as "normal loss") in the case where the variable display result is the outlying pattern.

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 started after the variable display of the effect symbol is started. The reach effect is executed after the reach state is reached, and a combination of predetermined effect symbols that do not become the big hit symbol finally 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, the effect symbols are finally stopped and displayed in each of the "left", "middle", and "right" symbol display areas 9L, 9C, 9R on the effect display device 9.

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 "the sudden probability 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 is 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. 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 seconds 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 such a manner, when the special winning opening is opened twice for 0.1 seconds, 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 3 (MR3): Determines a variation pattern (variation time) (for variation pattern determination)
(3) Random 4 (MR4): Determine whether or not to generate a hit based on a normal symbol (for normal symbol hit determination)
(4) Random 5 (MR5): Determines the initial value of random 4 (for determining random 4 initial value)

In this embodiment, the fluctuation pattern is determined to be any of the fluctuation patterns included in the fluctuation pattern judgment table using the fluctuation pattern judgment random number (random 3).

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 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. Further, 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.

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 a normal state (a gaming state that is not the probability changed state) and a probability variation jackpot determination table used in the probability changed state. In the normal-time jackpot determination table, the numerical values described in the left column of FIG. 7(A) are set, and in the probability variation jackpot determination table, the numerical values described in the right column of FIG. 7(A). Is set. The numerical value described in FIG. 7(A) is a jackpot determination value.

7B and 7C are explanatory diagrams showing the small hit determination table. The small hit determination table is a set of data stored in the ROM 54, and is a table in which a small hit 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). The small hitting determination table (for the first special symbol) is set to each numerical value described in FIG. 7(B), and the small hitting determination table (for the second special symbol) is shown in FIG. 7(C). Each listed numerical value is set. Further, the numerical values shown in FIGS. 7B and 7C are the small hit determination values.

The CPU 56 extracts the count value of the random number circuit 503 at a predetermined time and uses the extracted value as the value of the big hit judging random number (random R). The big hit judging random number value is shown in FIG. 7(A). If any of the jackpot determination values match, it is determined to be 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. 7(A) 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 means 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 a symbol a small hit symbol.

In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 7(B) and 7(C), 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 opening 14 and the second special symbol Compared with the case where the variable display is executed, the ratio of the “small hit” is higher.

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 and 131b, when it is determined that the variable display result is a jackpot pattern, the jackpot type is "normal jackpot", based on a random number (random 1) for jackpot type determination. It is a table that is referred to in order to determine one of the "probability variation jackpot" and "the sudden variation jackpot." In addition, in this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 7D and 7E, 10 determination values are assigned to the “sudden probability big hit” in the jackpot type determination table 131a (40 minutes). However, four determination values are assigned to “sudden probability big hit” in the big hit type determination table 131b (ratio of 40/40). 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 opening 14 and the second special symbol Compared with the case where the variable display is executed, the rate of being decided as “a sudden probability 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 changed and displayed, and it may be determined as "a sudden probability big hit". Note that the determination values set in the table are different in number and cannot be assigned in duplicate.

In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 7D and 7E, as the first specific game state in which a predetermined amount of game value is given, two rounds of sudden probability variation jackpots and more than the game value are provided. The case of determining a 15-round big hit (probable variation big hit or normal big hit) as the second specific game state that gives a certain amount of game value will be described, but at a high rate when the variable display of the first special symbol is executed. Although the case of deciding to be in one specific game state is shown, the game value to be given is not limited to the number of rounds as shown in this embodiment. For example, as compared with the first specific game state, the second specific game state in which the allowable amount of the winning number (count number) of the game balls to the large winning hole 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 big hit during the big hit is extended may be determined. 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 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, the undigested round will remain), 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, the undigested round remains internally. Therefore, the jackpot game may be continued (an effect in which the jackpot opening is additionally started by a bonus after finishing the jackpot of 15 times opening).

In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 7(D) and (E), there are "normal big hit", "probably odd big hit" and "suddenly sudden big hit" as big hit types.

The "probable variation big hit" is a big hit that is controlled to a big hit gaming state for 15 rounds and is shifted to the probability variation state after the termination of the big hit gaming state (in this embodiment, it is also shifted to the probability variation state and also in the time saving state. (See steps S170 and S171 described later). After the transition to the probability variation state, the probability variation state is maintained until the next big hit occurs (see step S134 described later).

Further, the "normal big hit" is a big hit that is controlled to a big hit game state of 15 rounds and is not shifted to the probability changing state after the end of the big hit game state, but is shifted only to a time saving state (see step S167 described later). .. Then, after shifting to the time saving state, the time saving state is maintained until the execution of the variable display of the special symbol and the effect symbol is completed a predetermined number of times (for example, 100 times) (see steps S142 to S145 described later). It should be noted that in this embodiment, even after a big hit occurs after the shift to the time saving state and before the execution of the variable display for the predetermined number of times is finished, the time saving state ends (see step S134 described later).

In addition, the "sudden probability big hit" is allowed up to the number of times that the special winning opening is smaller than that of "probability big hit" or "normal big hit" (in this embodiment, the opening is 0.1 second twice). It is a big hit. That is, in the case of "a sudden sudden change big hit", it is controlled to a big hit game state of two rounds. Then, in this embodiment, after the 2-round big hit game state, the state changes to the probability changing state (in this embodiment, the state changes to the probability changing state as well as the time saving state. Step S170 described later). , S171). After the transition to the probability variation state, the probability variation state is maintained until the next big hit occurs (see step S134 described later).

As described above, in the present embodiment, even when the "small hit" occurs, the special winning opening is opened twice for 0.1 seconds each, and the big hit game state is caused by "the sudden probability big hit". 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 (described later). See steps S147 to S151). By doing so, it becomes impossible to recognize whether it is a "sudden variation big hit" or a "small hit", and the enjoyment of the game is improved.

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 each of the "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.

FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing a variation pattern prepared in advance. In FIG. 8, "EXT" indicates the second byte EXT data in the effect control command having a 2-byte structure. In addition, “variation time” indicates a variation time of a special symbol (variable display period of identification information).

In the example shown in FIG. 8, a plurality of types of variation patterns are prepared in accordance with different production modes such as outliers, big hits, reachability, and reach aspects when reaching. Has been done. In addition, the reach effect is executed in the effect display device 9 whose display is controlled by the effect control microcomputer 100.

As shown in FIG. 8, in this embodiment, the variable display result of the special symbol is “out”, and the variation patterns corresponding to the case without the reach effect are “shortened non-reach out” and “non-reach out”. Is prepared. The “shortened non-reach deviation” is a variation pattern provided corresponding to the “non-reach deviation” and used in the time saving state.

Further, as shown in FIG. 8, the variable display result of the special symbol is “out”, and as a variation pattern corresponding to the case where the reach effect is accompanied, the out symbol is derived and displayed after the normal reach effect is performed “normal reach”. "Let's go away", "Long reach out" is displayed after the long reach production is performed, and "Long reach out" is displayed after the super reach production is made "Super reach out" is prepared. ing.

Further, as shown in FIG. 8, in this embodiment, as a variation pattern corresponding to a case where the variable display result of the special symbol is a big hit (excluding sudden probability big hit), the big hit symbol is given after the normal reach effect is performed. "Normal reach" that is derived and displayed, "Long reach" that the big hit design is derived and displayed after the long reach performance is performed, and "Super reach" that the big hit design is derived and displayed after the super reach performance is performed. "Hit" is prepared.

The long reach effect may be developed and executed after the normal reach effect is performed, or may be executed without the normal reach effect. Further, the super reach performance may be developed from the normal reach performance to the long reach performance, and may be further developed and executed, or may be developed and executed from the long reach performance without passing through the normal reach performance. It may be performed, or may be executed without passing through the normal reach effect and the long reach effect.

Further, as shown in FIG. 8, in this embodiment, "special hit" is prepared as a variation pattern corresponding to the case where the variable display result of the special symbol suddenly becomes a sudden change big hit or a small hit. It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the variation pattern shown in FIG. 8, and may include, for example, a variation pattern involving a pseudo continuous production in which the production design is changed again after being temporarily stopped.

FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing a variation pattern determination table stored in the ROM 54. The variation pattern determination table is referred to in accordance with the type of jackpot, the gaming state, and the like, and is used to determine the variation pattern as one of a plurality of types based on the random number (random 3) for determining the variation pattern. Specifically, when the variable display result of the special symbol is “normal big hit” or “probability variation big hit”, the variation pattern determination table for big hits (excluding sudden probability variation big hits) shown in FIG. 9A is referred to. Further, when the variable display result of the special symbol is "abrupt probability sudden big hit" or "small hit", the variation pattern determination table for sudden probability large jackpot/small hit of the variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 9B is referred to. .. Further, when the gaming state is the normal state (low base state) and the variable display result of the special symbol is “out”, the out variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 9C is referred to. Further, when the gaming state is a time saving state or a probability changing state (that is, a high base state), and the variable display result of the special symbol is “out”, the time varying time variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. Referenced.

When determining the variation pattern, a random number (random 3) for determining the variation pattern is extracted, and in the referred variation pattern determination table, a determination value that matches the (1 to 997) value of the extracted random 3 is assigned. The fluctuation pattern is determined. It should be noted that the fluctuation pattern judgment table is assigned with judgment values corresponding to each fluctuation pattern, but in the example shown in FIG. 9, the ratio of the allocated judgment values is shown for the sake of simplifying the explanation. There is. For example, in the variation pattern determination table for big hits (excluding sudden probability big hits) in FIG. 9A, 50% of the determination values corresponding to the values of random 3 (1 to 997) are fluctuation patterns “super reach”. It is assigned to "big hit". That is, in the example shown in FIG. 9, the value indicated for each fluctuation pattern in the fluctuation pattern determination table indicates the ratio determined by the fluctuation pattern.

In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 9, for example, when it is determined that the variable display result is “out” in the normal state (low base state) (variation for out of FIG. 9C). In the case where the pattern determination table is referred to), among the plurality of types of variation patterns, the ratio determined as “non-reach out” is the highest, and the ratio determined as “super reach out” is the lowest. A judgment value is assigned. Further, for example, when it is determined that the variable display result is “out” in the time saving state or the probability changing state (that is, the high base state) (see the deviation pattern determination table for time difference in the time saving in FIG. 9D). In this case, unlike the normal state (low base state), it is not judged as “non-reach out”, and the judgment value is increased so that the rate of “shortening non-reach out” becomes high. Has been assigned. By setting the determination value in this way, it is configured such that a fluctuation pattern having a short fluctuation time is easily selected in the time saving state.

Further, in the example shown in FIG. 9, the variation pattern accompanied by the normal reach effect (“normal reach out” or “per normal reach”) is more than the variation pattern accompanied by the super reach effect (“super reach out” or “super reach”). , It is easy to select when the variable display result is “out”. On the contrary, the variable display result with “Super reach reach” or “Per reach” is more variable than the variation pattern with “Normal reach” (“Normal reach” or “Normal reach”). It is easy to select when it is a "big hit (except sudden probability big hit)". Therefore, in this embodiment, the variation pattern with the super reach effect has a higher expectation that the variable display result will be a big hit than the variation pattern with the normal reach effect. Hereinafter, a variation pattern with a high expectation that the variable display result is a big hit is also referred to as a variation pattern with a high expectation.

Further, in the example shown in FIG. 9, when it is determined that the variable display result is “sudden probability variation big hit” or “small hit” (variation pattern determination for sudden probability variation big hit/small hit in FIG. 9B). In the case where the table is referred to), the variation pattern is determined to be “special hit”.

In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 8, when the variation time is fixedly set in accordance with the type of reach production (for example, the variation time is 25 seconds when super reach production is involved). However, for example, even in the case of the same super reach effect, the varying time may be different according to the total number of pending storages. For example, even when the same super reach effect is involved, the variation time may be shortened as the number of total pending storage increases. Further, for example, even in the case of the same super reach effect, when the variable display of the first special symbol is performed, the variable time may be different according to the first number of reserved memories, When the variable display of the special symbol is performed, the variable time may be changed according to the second number of reserved memories. In this case, a different variation pattern determination table is prepared for each value of the first number of pending storages and the second number of pending storages (for example, the variation pattern determination table for the number of pending storages 0 to 2 and the number of pending storages 3, 3). 4 fluctuation pattern determination table is prepared), and the fluctuation pattern determination table may be selected according to the value of the first number of pending storages or the second number of pending storages to vary the varying time. ..

Further, in this embodiment, the variation time is different depending on whether the gaming state is the normal state (low base state) and the time saving state or the probability variation state (that is, high base state). (In the variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 9, when the time saving state or the certainty variation state (that is, the high base state), “shortened non-reach deviation” with a shorter variation time than other variation patterns is selected. The determination value is set so as to be high), but not limited to this, even in the normal state, the variation time varies depending on the total number of pending storages (that is, a variation pattern with a short variation time is selected. Different ratio). For example, the variation time may be shortened as the total number of pending storages is increased (that is, the variation pattern having a shorter variation time may be selected at a higher rate). Further, for example, when performing a variable display of the first special symbol, the variation time is changed according to the first number of reserved memories (that is, the variation pattern in which the variation time is short is selected differently). However, when performing the variable display of the second special symbol, the variation time is changed in accordance with the number of second reserved memories (that is, the variation pattern in which the variation time is short is selected differently). You may do it. In this case, a different variation pattern determination table is prepared for each value of the first number of pending storages and the second number of pending storages (for example, the variation pattern determination table for the number of pending storages 0 to 2 and the number of pending storages 3, 3). 4 fluctuation pattern determination table is prepared), and the fluctuation pattern determination table may be selected according to the value of the first number of pending storages or the second number of pending storages to vary the varying time. ..

When the variation pattern determination table that is different depending on the number of pending storages is used, for example, the variation pattern determination table used when the display result is off and the total number of pending storages is 3 or more is A determination value is assigned so that the rate of selection of a variation pattern with a reach effect (normal reach effect, super reach effect) is reduced as compared with a variation pattern determination table used when the number of memories is 0 to 2. .. In addition, the variation pattern determination table used when the total number of pending storages is 3 or more is used as a determination value so that the rate of selecting “shortened non-reach deviation” having a shorter variation time than other variation patterns is high. Is set. As a result, the average fluctuation time can be shortened as the number of total pending storages increases, and it is possible to prevent the situation in which the operating rate of variable display is lowered as much as possible.

In addition, although the case where the determination value allocation is different for the two types of the total pending storage number is 0 to 2 or 3 or more is shown, the present invention is not limited to this, and for example, depending on the total pending storage number. The allocation may be changed more finely and stepwise. In this case, for example, a variation pattern determination table for the total pending storage number of 0, 1 and a variation pattern determination table for two total pending storage numbers, three total pending storage numbers, and four total pending storage numbers May be prepared in advance, and the determination value may be assigned to the variation pattern with reach or the variation pattern of the shortened variation, and the determination value may be changed stepwise.

FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the contents of the effect control command transmitted by the game control microcomputer 560. In the example shown in FIG. 10, the command 80XX (H) is an effect control command (fluctuation pattern command) that specifies the variation pattern of the effect symbol that is variably displayed on the effect display device 9 in correspondence with the variable display of the special symbol. (Each corresponds to the variation pattern XX). That is, when a unique number is given to each of the usable fluctuation patterns shown in FIG. 8, there is a fluctuation pattern command corresponding to each of the fluctuation patterns specified by the number. In addition, "(H)" 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 symbol 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 variable pattern command may include information indicating whether to start the variable display of the first special symbol or the variable display of the second special symbol.

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

The command 9000 (H) is a production 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 95XX(H) is an effect control command (a winning determination result designation command) indicating the contents of the winning determination result. In this embodiment, in the winning determination process (see FIG. 15) described later, the game control microcomputer 560 determines which variation pattern will be obtained at the time of starting winning. Then, a value for designating the variation pattern as the determination result is set in the EXT data of the determination result specification command at the time of winning, and the control for transmitting to the effect control microcomputer 100 is performed.

FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the content of the winning determination result designation command. As shown in FIG. 11, in the present embodiment, a value is set in the EXT data according to which variation pattern is determined at the time of the start winning, and the winning determination result designation command is transmitted. For example, when it is determined that the variation pattern is “shortened non-reach out” at the time of starting winning to the first starting winning opening 13, a winning determination result specification command in which “01 (H)” is set in the EXT data is transmitted. To be done. In addition, for example, when it is determined that the variation pattern is "special win" at the time of starting winning into the first starting winning opening 13, a winning determination result designation command in which "09 (H)" is set in the EXT data is transmitted. To be done. In addition, for example, when it is determined that the variation pattern is “shortened non-reach out” at the time of starting winning to the second starting winning opening 14, the winning determination result designation command in which EXT data is set to “10 (H)” Will be sent. Further, for example, when it is determined that the variation pattern is "special win" at the time of the start winning to the second starting winning opening 14, the winning determination result designation command in which the EXT data is set to "18 (H)" is transmitted. To be done.

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

The commands A001 to A003 (H) are display control commands for displaying the fanfare screen, that is, designating the start of the big hit game (big hit start designation command: fanfare designation command). The big hit start designation command includes a big hit start 1 designation command, a big hit start designation 2 designation command, and a small hit/sudden-variable big hit start designation command, depending on the type of big hit. It should be noted that the game control microcomputer 560 may be configured to send a fanfare designating command for suddenly changing sudden big hit start designation in the case of a sudden big hit, but not to 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. 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 (round) of XX.

Command A301 (H) is a production control command (big hit end 1 designation command: ending 1 designation command) that displays the big hit end screen, that is, specifies the end of the big hit game and also specifies that it was a normal big hit. is there. Command A302 (H) is a production control command (big hit end 2 designation command: ending 2 designation command) that displays the big hit end screen, that is, specifies the end of the big hit game and also specifies that it was a probability variation big hit. is there. The command A303 (H) is a production control command (small hit/sudden odd change jackpot end designation command: ending 3 designation command) for designating the end of the small hit game or the sudden probability big hit game end. It should be noted that the game control microcomputer 560 may be configured to send an ending designation command for suddenly changing the sudden big hit end designation command in the case of a sudden big hit, but not to send an ending designation command in the case of a small hit. Good.

Command B000 (H) is an effect control command (normal state designation command) that designates that the game state is the normal state. Command B001 (H) is a production control command (time saving state designation command) that specifies that the game state is a time saving state (not including the probability variation state). Command B002 (H) is a production control command (probability variation state designation command) that designates that the game state is a probable variation 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. Further, the command C100 (H) is an effect control command (second reserved storage number addition designating command) that specifies that the second reserved storage number has increased by 1.

The effect control microcomputer 100 (specifically, effect control CPU 101) mounted on the effect control board 80 receives the effect control command described above from the game control microcomputer 560 installed on the main board 31. Then, the display state of the image display device 9 is changed according to the contents shown in FIG. 10, the display state of the lamp is changed, and the sound number data is output to the sound output board 70.

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". Note that such a command form is an example, and other command forms may be used. For example, a control command composed of 1 byte or 3 bytes or more may be used.

As a production control command transmission method, the production control command data is output 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-shaped) acquisition signal (effect control INT signal) for instructing acquisition 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 FIG. 10, the variation pattern command and the display result designation command are the variable display (variation) and the second special symbol display device of the effect symbol corresponding to the variation of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display device 8a. The image display device 9 and the like that can be used in common with the variable display (variation) of the effect symbol corresponding to the variation of the second special symbol in 8b, and perform the effect along with the variable display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol. When controlling the effect parts, it is possible not to increase the types of commands transmitted from the game control microcomputer 560 to the effect control microcomputer 100.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an example of a program of special symbol process processing (step S26) executed by the game control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) 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 starting opening switch 13a for detecting that the game ball has won the first starting winning opening 13 is on, or the second starting winning opening 14 is a gaming ball If the second starting opening switch 14a for detecting the winning is turned on, that is, if the starting winning for the first starting winning opening 13 or the second starting winning opening 14 occurs, the starting opening switch passage processing Is executed (steps S311 and S312). Then, any one of steps S300 to S310 is performed. If the first starting 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 storages of the numerical data stored in the storage buffer for number of storages (total number of storages for storage). The number of storages of the numerical data stored in the reserved storage number buffer can be confirmed by the count value of the total reserved storage number counter. Also, if the count value of the total pending storage number counter is not 0, it is determined whether or not the display result of the variable display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol is a big hit. When making a big hit, the big hit flag is set. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (1 in this example) according to step S301. The jackpot flag is reset when the jackpot game is over.

Variation pattern setting processing (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 fluctuation time timer which measures the fluctuation time of the special design is started. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (2 in this example) corresponding to step S302.

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

Special symbol fluctuation process (step S303): is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 3. When the variation time of the variation pattern selected in the variation pattern setting process elapses (the variation time timer set in step S301 times out, that is, the value of the variation time timer becomes 0), the internal state (special symbol process flag) is stepped. The value is updated to the value corresponding to S304 (4 in this example).

Special symbol stop process (step S304): is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 4. The variable display on the first special symbol display device 8a or the second special symbol display device 8b is stopped to cause the stop symbol to be displayed. In addition, the control for transmitting the symbol confirmation designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 is performed. Then, 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. It should be noted that the effect control microcomputer 100 controls the effect display device 9 to stop the effect symbol when receiving the symbol confirmation designation command transmitted by the game control microcomputer 560.

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, the execution time of the special winning opening opening process is set by the timer, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (6 in this example) corresponding to step S306. The special winning opening opening pre-processing is executed for each round, but when the first round is started, the special winning opening opening pre-processing is also processing for starting a big hit game.

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

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

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-process is executed for each round, but when the first round is started, the small hit opening pre-process is also a process for starting the small hit game.

Small hitting open process (step S309): 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. If the closing condition for the special winning opening is satisfied, and if there are still remaining rounds, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to the value corresponding to step S308 (8 in this example). When all rounds are completed, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to the value corresponding to step S310 (10 (decimal number) in this example).

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. 13 is a flowchart showing the starting opening switch passage processing in step S312. In the starting opening switch passage processing, the CPU 56 first confirms whether or not the first starting opening switch 13a is in the ON state (step S211A). If the first starting opening switch 13a is not on, the process proceeds to step S211B. If the first starting opening switch 13a is in the ON state, the CPU 56 determines whether or not the first reserved storage number has reached the upper limit value (specifically, the first reserved storage for counting the first reserved storage number). It is confirmed whether or not the value of the number counter is 4 (step S212A). If the first number of reserved storages has reached the upper limit value, the process proceeds to step S1211B.

If the first reserved storage number has not reached the upper limit value, the CPU 56 increments the value of the first reserved storage number counter by 1 (step S213A), and at the same time, the value of the total reserved storage number counter for counting the total reserved storage number. Is incremented by 1 (step S214A).

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 in the first reserved storage buffer (see FIG. 14) (step S215A). .. In the process of step S215A, a random number R (big hit determination random number) that is a hardware random number, a big hit type determination random number (random 1) and a variation pattern determination random number (random 3) that are software random numbers are extracted and stored in the storage area. Stored in. Random pattern determination random number (random 3) is not extracted and stored in the storage area in advance in the opening switch passing process (at the time of starting winning), but is extracted at the start of the variation of the first special symbol. May be. For example, the game control microcomputer 560 may directly extract a value from a variation pattern determination random number counter for generating a variation pattern determination random number (random 3) in a variation pattern setting process described later.

FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of an area (holding buffer) for storing random numbers and the like corresponding to the holding storage. As shown in FIG. 14, a storage area corresponding to the upper limit value (4 in this example) of the first reserved storage number is secured in the first reserved storage buffer. In addition, a storage area corresponding to the upper limit value (4 in this example) of the second reserved storage number is secured in the second reserved storage buffer. 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 determination (random 3) is stored. The first pending storage buffer and the second pending storage buffer are formed in the RAM 55.

Next, the CPU 56 confirms whether the game state is the high base state. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not the time saving flag is set (step S216A). If it is set, the process proceeds to step S219A. When the time saving flag is not set, the CPU 56 confirms whether the value of the special symbol process flag is 5 or more (step S217A). When the value of the special symbol process flag is 5 or more (that is, in the jackpot gaming state), the CPU 56 proceeds to step S219A.

If the value of the special symbol process flag is less than 5, the variation display result or variation pattern when the variation (variable display) based on the detected starting prize is subsequently executed is determined in advance at the time of winning the prize. Is executed (step S218A). And CPU56 performs control which transmits the 1st reservation storage number addition designation command to microcomputer 100 for production control (Step S219A).

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

Next, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the second starting opening switch 14a is in the on state (step S211B). If the second starting opening switch 14a is not in the on state, the processing is ended as it is. If the second starting opening switch 14a is in the ON state, the CPU 56 determines whether or not the second reserved storage number has reached the upper limit value (specifically, the second reserved storage for counting the second reserved storage number). It is confirmed whether or not the value of the number counter is 4 (step S212B). 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 S213B), 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 S214B).

Then, the CPU 56 extracts the values from the random number circuit 503 and the counter for generating the software random number and stores them in the storage area of the second reserved storage buffer (step S215B). In the process of step S215B, a random number R (big hit determination random number) that is a hardware random number, a big hit type determination random number (random 1) and a variation pattern determination random number (random 3) that are software random numbers are extracted and stored in the storage area. Stored in. It should be noted that the random number for changing pattern determination (random 3) is not extracted and stored in the saving area in advance in the opening switch passing process (at the time of starting winning), but is extracted at the start of the change of the second special symbol. May be. For example, the game control microcomputer 560 may extract a value from a fluctuation pattern determination random number counter for generating a fluctuation pattern determination random number (random 3) in the fluctuation pattern setting process.

Further, the CPU 56 carries out a winning determination process (step S218B). Further, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit the second reserved storage number addition designation command to the effect control CPU 101 (step S219B).

As in the case of the first start winning, the process of step S218B may not be executed during the big hit game. Further, the process of step S218A is executed only in the low base state, but the process of step S218B may be executed only in the high base state.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the winning determination process in steps S218A and S218B. In the winning determination process, the CPU 56 first compares the big hit determination random number (random R) extracted in step S215A or step S215B with the normal big hit determination value shown in the left column of FIG. It is confirmed whether or not match (step S220). In this embodiment, at the timing of starting the fluctuation of the special symbol and the effect symbol, whether or not to be a big hit or a small hit in the special symbol normal process described later, determine the big hit type, or the fluctuation pattern in the fluctuation pattern setting process However, apart from that, at the timing when the game ball starts winning in the first starting winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14, before the variable display based on the starting winning is started, By executing the winning determination process, it is confirmed in advance which variation pattern will be obtained. By doing so, the variation pattern is predicted in advance before the variation display of the effect symbol is executed, and as described later, based on the determination result at the time of winning, the effect control microcomputer 100 causes a big hit or a super hit. A look-ahead effect that announces that it will reach is executed.

If the random number for jackpot determination (random R) does not match the jackpot determination value at the normal time (N in step S220), the CPU 56 determines whether the probability variation flag indicating that the game state is the probability variation state is set. Confirm (step S221). If the probability variation flag is set, the CPU 56 compares the big hit determination random number (random R) extracted in step S215A or step S215B with the probability variation time big hit determination value shown in the right column of FIG. 7A, It is confirmed whether or not they match (step S222). It should be noted that there is a possibility that a plurality of variable displays may be executed between the time when the probability change state is confirmed in step S221 at the time of winning the start prize and the actual variable display based on the starting prize is started. There is. Therefore, the game state is changing during the period from when it is confirmed whether or not the state is the probable variation state in step S221 at the time of winning the start prize until when the variation display based on the starting prize is actually started (for example, variation start. If a sudden variation big hit occurs before, it has changed from the normal state to the probability variation state.) Therefore, the game state determined in step S221 at the time of start winning and the game state determined at the start of fluctuation (see step S61 described later) do not always match.

If the jackpot determination random number (random R) does not match the jackpot determination value at the time of probability variation (N in step S222), the CPU 56 selects the jackpot determination random number (random R) extracted in step S215A or step S215B and FIG. B) and (C) are compared with the small hitting determination values, and it is confirmed whether or not they match (step S223). In this case, when there is a start winning in the first starting winning opening 13 (when executing the winning determination processing (see step S218A) in the starting opening switch passage processing shown in FIG. 13), the CPU 56 executes the processing shown in FIG. It is determined whether or not it matches the small hit determination value set in the small hit determination table (for the first special symbol) shown in (B). In addition, when there is a start winning to the second starting winning opening 14 (when the winning determination processing (see step S218B) is executed in the starting opening switch passage processing shown in FIG. 13), it is as shown in FIG. It is determined whether or not it matches the small hit determination value set in the small hit determination table (for the second special symbol) shown.

If the big hit determination random number (random R) does not match the small hit determination value (N in step S223), the CPU 56 performs a process of determining the current game state (step S224). In this embodiment, the CPU 56 determines in step S224 whether the gaming state is the probability variation state or the time saving state (specifically, whether the time saving flag is set). It should be noted that a plurality of variable displays are executed between the confirmation of whether the state is the probable variation state or the time saving state in step S224 at the time of starting winning and the actual start of the variation display based on the starting winning. There is a possibility. Therefore, the game state has changed during the period from the confirmation of whether the state is the probability change state or the time saving state in step S224 at the time of winning the start prize until the actual variable display based on the starting prize is started (for example, , If the probability variation big hit occurs before the start of fluctuation, it has changed from the normal state to the probability variation state.). Therefore, the game state determined in step S224 at the time of start winning and the game state determined at the start of fluctuation (see step S61 described later) do not always match.

Then, the CPU 56 selects the variation pattern determination table according to the determination result of step S224 (step S225). Specifically, when the CPU 56 determines that the gaming state is the probability variation state or the time saving state, the CPU 56 selects the time variation saving variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 9D. When it is determined that the gaming state is the normal state, the out-of-shift variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 9C is selected.

When the big hit determination random number (random R) matches the small hit determination value (Y in step S223), the CPU 56 selects the sudden probability variation big hit/small hit variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 9B. .. (Step S226).

When the big hit determination random number (random R) matches the big hit determination value in step S220 or step S222, the CPU 56 determines whether the big hit is based on the big hit type determination random number (random 1) extracted in step S215A or step S215B. The type is determined (step S227). In this case, when there is a start winning in the first starting winning opening 13 (when executing the winning determination processing (see step S218A) in the starting opening switch passage processing shown in FIG. 13), the CPU 56 executes the processing shown in FIG. The jackpot type determination table (for the first special symbol) 131a shown in (D) is used to determine whether the jackpot type is a "normal jackpot", a "probability variation jackpot", or a "probability variation jackpot". Further, in the case where there is a start winning at the second starting winning opening 14 (when the winning determination process (see step S218B) is executed in the starting opening switch passage processing shown in FIG. 13), the result is as shown in FIG. The jackpot type determination table (for the second special symbol) 131b shown is used to determine whether the jackpot type is a "normal jackpot", a "probability variation jackpot", or a "sudden confirmation variation jackpot".

Then, the CPU 56 selects the fluctuation pattern determination table according to the jackpot type determined in step S227 (step S228). Specifically, when the CPU 56 determines that the type of big hit is "normal big hit" or "probability variation big hit", it selects a variation pattern determination table for big hits (excluding sudden variation big hits). Further, when it is determined that the "probable sudden change big hit", the variation pattern determination table for sudden sudden big hit / small hit.

Next, the CPU 56 determines the variation pattern using the variation pattern determination table set in step S225, step S226, or step S228 and the variation pattern determination random number (random 3) extracted in step S215A or step S215B ( Step S229).

Then, the CPU 56 performs a process of setting the determined variation pattern in the winning determination result specification command (step S230). Specifically, the CPU 56 wins one of the values “01 (H)” to “18 (H)” as shown in FIG. 11, depending on which variation pattern is determined in step S229. Processing for setting the EXT data of the hour determination result designation command is performed.

For example, when there is a start winning at the first starting winning opening 13 (when the winning determination process (see step S218A) is executed in the starting opening switch passage processing shown in FIG. 13), “non-reach” is performed in step S229. If it is determined that the variation pattern of “out”, the EXT data of the winning determination result specification command composed of the MODE data “95 (H)” is set to “02 (H)” (passing the start opening switch shown in FIG. 13). When performing the winning determination process (see step S218B), the process of setting "13 (H)" is performed.

In this embodiment, the variation pattern is determined using the same variation pattern determination table even if the number of pending storages is different, but different variation pattern determination tables may be used depending on the number of pending storages. .. In this case, regardless of the number of reserved memories, for example, it is determined from the variation pattern determination random number (or variation pattern type determination random number) whether or not the variation pattern involves normal reach or super reach, and the determination result is displayed. Alternatively, the winning determination result specification command may be transmitted, and it has been determined that a specific variation pattern (for example, a variation pattern for performing a specific reach effect, a variation pattern for a specific number of pseudo-repetitions, etc.) is obtained. At this time, a winning determination result specification command indicating the determination result may be transmitted. Further, for example, it is determined whether the display result is "normal big hit" or "probability variation big hit", and the command indicating the judgment result is used as a winning judgment result specifying command or separately from the winning judgment result specifying command. You may make it transmit.

16 and 17 are flowcharts showing the special symbol normal process (step S300) in the special symbol process process. In the special symbol normal processing, 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, the process ends.

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 the special symbol process processing is performed for the first special symbol or the special symbol process processing is performed for the second special symbol). Is set to "2nd" (step S53). If the second reserved memory number is 0 (that is, only the first reserved memory number is accumulated), the CPU 66 sets 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. That is, the second start condition for starting the variable display of the second special symbol is controlled so as to be satisfied in preference to the first start condition for starting the variable display of the first special symbol. In addition, in this embodiment, the variable display of the second special symbol is executed with priority over the variable display of the first special symbol, but the game ball is in the first starting winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14. According to the starting winning order of winning, the variable display of the first special symbol or the variable display of the second special symbol may be executed. Further, for example, the variable display of the first special symbol may be executed with priority over the variable display of the second 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”, the random numbers stored in the storage area corresponding to the first reserved storage number=1 in the first reserved storage number buffer. The numerical value is read and stored in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55. Further, when the special symbol pointer indicates “second”, the CPU 56 reads out each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the second number of reserved storages=1 in the second number of reserved storages. And stores it in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55.

Then, the CPU 56 subtracts 1 from the count value of the reserved storage number counter indicated by the special symbol pointer, and shifts the content of each storage area (step S56). Specifically, when the special symbol pointer indicates “first”, the CPU 56 subtracts 1 from the count value of the first reserved storage number counter, and 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 storage buffer are shifted. To do.

That is, when the special symbol pointer indicates "first", the CPU 56 sets 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 reserved storage number=n-1. Further, the CPU 56 sums the values (values indicating “first” or “second”) stored in the storage areas corresponding to the total number of reserved storages=m (m=2 to 8) in the reserved specific area. Store in the storage area corresponding to the number of reserved storages=m-1.

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

Then, the CPU 56 reduces the number of lights of the special symbol holding storage display (the first special symbol holding storage display 18a or the second special symbol holding storage display 18b) indicated by the special symbol pointer by 1 (step S57).

Further, the CPU 56 decrements the value of the pending storage number counter (first pending storage number counter or second pending storage number counter) indicated by the special symbol pointer by 1 (step S58).

Further, 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 S59).

In the special symbol normal process, first, the data indicating "first" indicating that the process is executed for the first start winning opening 13, that is, the first special symbol indicating that the process is executed "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 the 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 jackpot determination which is extracted in step S214A of the first starting opening switch passage processing or step S214B of the second starting opening switch passage processing and stored in advance in the first holding storage buffer or the second holding 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 when 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 a probability variation state (high probability state), the probability of being a jackpot is higher than when the gaming state is a non-probability variation state (normal gaming state and time saving state). ing. Specifically, the probability jackpot determination table in which a large number of jackpot determination values are set in advance (a table in which the numerical values on the right side of FIG. 7A in ROM 54 are set) and the number of jackpot determination values are changed in a certain manner. An ordinary big hit judgment table (a table in which the numerical values on the left side of FIG. 7A in the ROM 54 are set) is set to be smaller than the big hit judgment table. Then, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the gaming state is the probability variation state, and when the gaming state is the probability variation state, performs the jackpot determination process using the probability variation big jackpot determination table, and the gaming state is normal. When it is a game state or a time saving state, a jackpot determination process is performed using the normal time jackpot determination table. 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 that the special symbol will be a big hit. When it is decided to make a big hit (step S61), the process proceeds to step S71. In addition, to determine whether or not to be a big hit, it is to determine whether or not to shift to the big hit game state, but to decide whether or not to make the 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 sudden variation big hit or sudden variation jackpot, set in the process of ending the big hit game, and when the big hit is determined, the variable display of the special symbol is ended and the stop symbol is stopped and displayed. It is reset at the timing.

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 small hit determination process is performed. That is, when the value of the random number for random determination (random R) matches the small hit determination value shown in FIGS. 7B and 7C, the CPU 56 determines to make a small hit for the special symbol. In this case, the CPU 56 confirms the data indicated by the special symbol pointer, and when 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 decide 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 big hit 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 a type (“normal jackpot”, “probable variation”) corresponding to a 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 S214A of the first starting opening switch passage processing or step S214B 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. 7D and 7E, 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 “sudden change 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, depending on the decision result of the big hit type, one of the big hit symbols "1", "3", and "7" is determined as the stop symbol of the special symbol. That is, when the jackpot type is determined to be "a 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 "probability variation big hit" is determined, "7" is determined as the stop symbol of the special symbol. Further, when the small hit flag is set, the small hit symbol "5" is determined as the stop symbol of the special symbol.

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. 18 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, when the big hit type is the sudden probability big hit (Y in step S92), the CPU 56 selects the sudden probability big hit/small hit variation pattern determination table (step S93). If the jackpot type is not the sudden probability jackpot (that is, the normal jackpot or the probability jackpot) (N in step S92), the variation pattern determination table for the jackpot (excluding the sudden probability jackpot) is selected (step S94). 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 S95). When the small hit flag is set, the CPU 56 suddenly selects the probability variation big hit/small hit variation pattern determination table (step S96). Then, the process proceeds to step S100.

If the small hit flag is also not set, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the time saving flag indicating the time saving state is set (step S97). The time saving flag is set when the game state is shifted to the time saving state (including the time of shifting to the probability variation state), and is reset when the time saving state is ended. Specifically, it is usually decided to be a big hit, a certainty variation big hit or a sudden variation jackpot, and it is set in the process of ending the big hit game, the timing when the number of time saving is exhausted, and the variation of the special symbol when it is determined to be a big hit It is reset at the timing of ending the display and stopping and displaying the stop symbol. If the time saving flag is set (Y in step S97), the CPU 56 selects the time variation saving variation pattern determination table (step S99). Then, the process proceeds to step S100.

If the time saving flag is not set (N in step S97), the CPU 56 selects the deviation variation pattern determination table (step S98). Then, the process proceeds to step S100.

In step S100, the CPU 56 reads out random 3 (random number for fluctuation pattern determination) from the random number buffer area (first pending storage buffer or second pending storage buffer), and selects it in the processing of step S93, S94, S96, S98 or S99. The variation pattern determination table is referred to and the variation pattern is determined to be one of a plurality of types (step S100).

Next, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit an effect control command (fluctuation pattern command) corresponding to the determined fluctuation pattern to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S101). Further, 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 S102).

Also, the variation of the special symbol is started (step S103). For example, the start flag corresponding to the special symbol referred to in the special symbol display control process of step S33 is set. Further, a value corresponding to the fluctuation time corresponding to the selected fluctuation pattern is set in the fluctuation time timer formed in the RAM 55 (step S104). 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 S105).

FIG. 19 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 effect control commands (see FIG. 10) of the display result 1 designation to the display result 5 designation in accordance with 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 type of big hit is the probability variation big hit, control is performed to transmit the display result 3 designation command (steps S111 and S112). Whether or not the probability 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". In addition, when the type of the big hit is the sudden variation big hit, the CPU 56 controls to transmit the display result 4 designation command (steps S113 and S114). Whether or not it is a sudden probability 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 process is "03". Then, when neither the probability variation big hit nor the sudden variation big hit (that is, the normal big hit), the CPU 56 controls to transmit the display result 2 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. 20 is a flowchart showing the special symbol changing process (step S303) in the special symbol process process. In the special symbol fluctuation process, the CPU 56 subtracts 1 from the fluctuation time timer (step S125), and when the fluctuation time timer times out (step S126), the value of the special symbol process flag corresponds to the special symbol stop process (step S304). The updated value is updated (step S127). If the variable time timer has not timed out, the process is terminated as it is.

FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing the special symbol stop process (step S304) in the special symbol process process. In the special symbol stop process, the CPU 56 sets the end flag referred to in the special symbol display control process of step S32 to end the variation of the special symbol, and the first special symbol display device 8a or the second special symbol display device 8b. The control to derive and display the stop symbol is performed (step S131). In addition, when the data indicating "first" is set to the special symbol pointer, the variation of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display 8a is ended, and "second" is indicated to the special symbol pointer. When the data is set, the variation of the second special symbol on the second special symbol display 8b is ended. In addition, control is performed to send a symbol confirmation designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S132). If the big hit flag is not set, the process proceeds to step S140 (step S133).

If the big hit flag is set, the CPU 56, if set, resets the probability variation flag indicating the probability variation state and the time saving flag indicating the time reduction state (step S134), and the effect control The control for transmitting the big hit start designation command to the microcomputer 100 for use is performed (step S135). Specifically, when the type of the big hit is the normal big hit, the big hit start 1 designation command is transmitted. When the type of big hit is the probability variation big hit, the big hit start 2 designation command is transmitted. When the type of the big hit is the sudden change sudden big hit, the small hit/sudden change big hit start designation command is transmitted. Whether the jackpot type is a normal jackpot, a probability variation jackpot, or a sudden variation jackpot is determined based on the data indicating the jackpot type stored in the RAM 55 (data stored in the jackpot type buffer). ..

Further, the CPU 56 controls to send a normal state designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S136).

Further, a value corresponding to the big hit display time (for example, the time at which the effect display device 9 notifies that the big hit has occurred) is set in the big hit display time timer (corresponding to a big winning opening control timer described later) (step S137). In addition, the number of times of opening (for example, 15 times in the case of a normal big hit or a probability variation big hit, and 2 times in the case of a sudden variation big hit) is set in the special winning opening release number counter (step S138). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to the value corresponding to the special winning opening opening preprocessing (step S305) (step S139).

In step S140, the CPU 56 confirms whether the probability variation flag indicating the probability variation state is set. If the probability variation flag is not set, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the time saving flag indicating the time saving state is set (step S141). When the time saving flag is set (that is, when it is controlled only in the time saving state without accompanying the probability change state), the value of the time saving number counter indicating the number of times the special symbol can fluctuate in the time saving state is − 1 (step S142).

Next, when the value of the hour/hour counter after subtraction becomes 0 (step S144), the CPU 56 resets the hour/hour flag (step S145). Further, the CPU 56 controls to send a normal state designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S146).

Next, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the small hit flag is set (step S147). If the small hit flag is set, the CPU 56 sends a small hit/suddenly probable variation big hit start designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S148). Further, a value corresponding to the small hit display time (for example, the time at which the effect display device 9 notifies that the small hit has occurred) is set in the small hit display time timer (step S149). In addition, the number of times of opening (for example, twice) is set in the special winning opening opening counter (step S150). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the small hit start preprocessing (step S308) (step S151).

If the small hit flag is not set (N in step S147), the CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the special symbol normal process (step S300) (step S152).

FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing the big hit ending process (step S307) in the special symbol process process. In the big hit ending process, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the big hit end display timer is set (step S160), and when the big hit end display timer is set, moves to step S164. If the big hit end display timer is not set, the big hit flag is reset (step S161), and control for sending a big hit end designation command is performed (step S162). Here, if it is a normal big hit, it sends a big hit end 1 designation command, if it is a certainty variation big hit, it sends a big hit end 2 designation command, and if it is a sudden variation big hit, a small hit/sudden Send the probability variation jackpot end designation command. Then, the jackpot end display timer is set to a value corresponding to the display time corresponding to the time during which the jackpot end display is being performed on the image display device 9 (big hit end display time) (step S163), and the process is ended.

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

If the jackpot end display time has passed (Y in step S165), the CPU 56 checks whether the type of jackpot is the probability-varying jackpot or the sudden-varying jackpot (step S166). Whether or not it is a probability big hit or sudden probability big hit is, specifically, whether or not the data set in the big hit type buffer in step S74 of the special symbol normal processing is "02" to "03". It can be determined by checking. If neither the probability variation big hit nor the sudden variation big hit (that is, the normal big hit), the CPU 56 sets the time saving flag and shifts the game state to the time saving state (step S167). Further, the CPU 56 sets a predetermined number (for example, 100 times) in the hour/hour counter for counting the number of hour/hour (step S168). In addition, the CPU 56 performs control for transmitting a time saving state designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S169). Then, the process proceeds to step S173.

If the probability variation big hit or sudden probability variation big hit, the CPU 56 sets the probability variation flag and shifts the game state to the probability variation state (step S170). Further, the CPU 56 sets the time saving flag (step S171). In addition, the CPU 56 controls to transmit the probability variation state designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S172). Then, the process proceeds to step S173.

In this embodiment, the time saving flag set in steps S167 and S171 is also used to determine whether to open the variable winning ball device 15 longer or increase the number of times of opening. In this case, specifically, in the normal symbol process processing (see step S27), the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the time saving flag is set when the variable display result of the normal symbol is a hit, and sets it. If so, control is performed to open the variable winning ball device 15 by lengthening the opening time or increasing the number of times of opening. Further, the time saving flag set in steps S167 and S171 is used to determine whether or not to reduce the variation time of the special symbol.

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 S173).

Next, the operation of the effect control means will be described. FIG. 23 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, 2 ms) of the 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 a timer interrupt occurs, the effect control CPU 101 sets a 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 effect control process process, the process corresponding to the current control state (effect control process flag) is selected from among the processes corresponding to the control state, and the display control of the effect display device 9 is executed.

Next, a random number updating process of updating the count value of the counter for generating a random number such as a jackpot symbol determining random number is executed (step S706). Then, it transfers to step S702.

FIG. 24 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 an 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 FIG. 10) is the effect control command stored in the buffer area is analyzed.

25 and 26 are flowcharts showing a specific example of the command analysis process (step S704). The effect control command received from the main board 31 is stored in the received command buffer, but in the command analysis processing, 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). When read, the value of the read pointer is set to +2 (step S613). The reason for adding +2 is that 2 bytes (1 command) are read.

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

If the received effect control command is the display result specifying command (step S625), the effect control CPU 101 forms the received display result specifying command (display result 1 specifying command to display result 5 specifying command) in the RAM. The display result designation command storage area is stored (step S626).

If the received production control command is the first winning determination result designation command (the winning determination result designation command in which EXT is “01” to “09”) (step S651), the production control CPU 101 receives the first received notification. The winning determination result specification command is stored in an empty first storage area of the first winning determination result storage buffer formed in the RAM (step S652).

FIG. 27 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of a winning determination result storage buffer (first winning determination result storage buffer and second winning determination result storage buffer). As shown in FIG. 27, the first winning determination result storage buffer and the second winning determination result storage buffer each have a command storage area (storage area) corresponding to the maximum value of the number of reserved memories (4 in this example). 1 to 4) are secured. Further, as shown in FIG. 27, in the winning determination result storage buffer, an area for storing the data indicating the hold mode of the hold display and the restriction flag corresponding to the winning determination result is secured for each command storage area. There is. In this embodiment, a holding effect of displaying the holding display in a display mode different from the normal mode is executed. The hold mode is a display mode of the hold display when the hold effect is executed. Further, the restriction flag is provided for each winning determination result, and indicates that execution of the holding effect is restricted for the holding display corresponding to the winning determination result. That is, for the hold display corresponding to the winning determination result, even if the display mode when the hold effect is executed is determined as the hold mode, it is restricted to display in the hold mode when the restriction flag is set. To be done.

The first winning determination result storage buffer and the second winning determination result storage buffer shown in FIGS. 27A and 27B are examples showing different timing states. As will be described later, in this embodiment, in the low base state, a holding effect is given to the hold display in the first hold storage display section 18c based on the winning of the game ball into the first starting winning opening 13. When it is executed and is in the high base state, the holding effect is executed for the holding display in the second holding storage display portion 18d based on the winning of the game ball into the second starting winning opening 14.

When the received production control command is the second winning determination result specification command (the winning determination result specification command of EXT "10" to "18") (step S653), the production control CPU 101 receives the second received. The award-winning determination result designating command is stored in the first free storage area (storage area having a large number) of the second award-winning determination result storage buffer formed in the RAM (step S654).

If the received effect control command is the first reserved storage number addition designation command (step S661), the effect control CPU 101 increases the first reserved storage number by 1 (step S663). The first number of reserved storages is stored in the RAM. If the received effect control command is the second reserved storage number addition designation command (step S664), the effect control CPU 101 increases the second reserved storage number by 1 (step S666). The second reserved storage number is stored in the RAM.

If the received effect control command is the normal state designation command (step S667), the effect control CPU 101 changes the shape of the hold display in the first hold storage display section 18c and the second hold storage display section 18d to the normal shape (for example, (Rectangle) (step S668). Further, the effect control CPU 101 resets the high base flag indicating that the game state is the high base state in the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S669). Note that the process of step S669 may be omitted when the high base flag is not set.

If the received effect control command is the time saving state designation command (step S670), the effect control CPU 101 changes the shape of the hold display in the first hold storage display section 18c and the second hold storage display section 18d to a special shape (for example, It is changed to a circle (step S671). Further, the effect control CPU 101 sets the high base flag (step S672).

In this embodiment, since the shape of the hold display changes depending on whether the gaming state is the normal state or the time saving state, it is possible to further enhance the interest caused by the changing of the gaming state. In this embodiment, an example in which the shape of the hold display changes between the normal state and the time saving state will be described, but the present invention is not limited to this, and for example, in addition to the shape, or in addition to the shape. Thus, the aspect such as size and brightness may be changed.

If the received effect control command is the probability variation state designation command (step S673), the effect control CPU 101 sets the high base flag (step S674).

When the received command read in step S612 is another effect control command, the effect control CPU 101 sets a flag corresponding to the received command (step S675).

FIG. 28 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 the hold mode determination process (step S800A) for determining the hold mode of the hold display corresponding to the new start winning, and then displays the hold display corresponding to the new start winning. The hold display execution process (step S800B) to be displayed is executed. Then, the effect control CPU 101 performs any one of steps S800 to S806 according to the value of the effect control process flag. In each process, the following process is executed. In the production control process processing, the display state of the production display device 9 is controlled, and the variable display of the production symbols is realized. However, the control relating to the variable display of the production symbols in synchronization with the variation of the first special symbol is also the second. The control related to the variable display of the effect symbol synchronized with the change of the special symbol is also executed in one effect control process process.

Fluctuating pattern command reception waiting process (step S800): It is confirmed whether a varying pattern command is received from the game control microcomputer 560. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not the fluctuation pattern command reception flag set in the command analysis process is set. If the variation pattern command is received, the value of the effect control process flag is changed to the value (“1”) corresponding to the effect symbol variation start process (step S801).

Production symbol variation start processing (step S801): control is performed so that variation of the production symbol is started. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to the value (“2”) corresponding to the effect during the effect of changing the effect design (step S802).

Production symbol variation process (step S802): The switching timing of each variation state (variation speed) that constitutes the variation pattern is controlled, and the end of the variation time is monitored. Then, when the change time ends, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to the value (“3”) corresponding to the effect symbol fluctuation stop process (step S803).

Production symbol fluctuation stop process (step S803): Based on the reception of the production control command (symbol confirmation designation command) for instructing the stop of all symbols, the variation of the production symbol is stopped and the display result (stopped pattern) is derived and displayed. Take control. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to the value (“4” or “0”) 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 end of the variable time, control is performed to display a screen for notifying the big hit on the effect display device 9. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to the value (“5”) corresponding to the big hit game process (step S805).

Big hit game processing (step S805): control during big hit game. For example, when the command for opening during the special winning opening or the command for specifying after opening the special winning opening is received, display control of the number of rounds in the effect display device 9 is performed. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to the value (“6”) corresponding to the big hit ending effect process (step S806).

Big hit end effect processing (step S806): In the effect 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 (“0”) corresponding to the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800).

FIG. 29 is a flowchart showing the reservation mode determination process (step S800A). In this embodiment, a holding effect of displaying the holding display in a display mode different from the normal mode is executed. In the hold mode determination process, the display mode of the hold display when the hold effect is executed is determined as the hold mode. When the hold effect is not executed, the hold display is displayed in the normal mode.

In the hold mode determination process, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether the game state is the high base state (that is, the time saving state or the probability changing state) (step S901). If it is not in the high base state, the process proceeds to step S906. It should be noted that confirming whether the gaming state is the high base state (that is, the time saving state or the probability changing state) can be realized, for example, by confirming whether the high base flag is set.

When the gaming state is the high base state, the effect control CPU 101, one of the second winning determination result designation command (winning determination result designation command based on the winning of the game ball into the second start winning port 14) : See FIG. 11) is received (step S902). In order to determine whether or not any of the second winning determination result specification commands has been received, for example, a flag indicating that the command has been received is set in the process of step S654 shown in FIG. By doing so, in the process of step S902, it is possible to confirm whether or not any of the second winning determination result specification commands has been received, depending on whether or not the flag is set.

When any of the second winning determination result designation commands is received, the effect control CPU 101, based on the received second winning determination result designation command, the high base state (second start winning) hold mode The hold mode is determined using the determination table (see FIG. 30B) (step S903).

FIG. 30B is an explanatory diagram showing a high base state (second starting prize) holding mode determination table. In the high base state (second starting prize) holding mode determination table, determination items (determined items: “no holding effect execution”, “first”) are determined for each variation pattern indicated by the second winning determination result specification command. Aspects”, “second aspect” or “third aspect”) are assigned, but in the example shown in FIG. 30B, the assigned determination values are assigned to simplify the description. Is shown. The effect control CPU 101 extracts, for example, a random number for holding mode determination, and determines the determination item to which a determination value that matches the extracted random number is assigned. Therefore, in the example shown in FIG. 30(b), the decision items (determined items: "no hold effect execution", "first aspect", "second aspect" or "third aspect") in each variation pattern The corresponding numerical value indicates the ratio (%) at which “first mode”, “second mode” or “third mode” is selected as the decision item. In addition, when the hold mode is determined to be "no hold effect execution" means that the hold effect is not executed.

As shown in FIG. 30B, in this embodiment, as the display mode of the hold display when the hold effect is executed, that is, the hold mode, “first mode”, “second mode” and “third mode” It can be determined as any of the "modes". When the "first mode" is determined, the hold display is displayed in blue, when the "second mode" is determined, the hold display is displayed in green, and when the "third mode" is determined. , The hold display is displayed in red. In this embodiment, the hold display is displayed in black in the normal state.

Next, the effect control CPU 101 stores the data indicating the determined hold mode in the storage area (the storage area of the number corresponding to the second reserved storage number) in which the latest data is stored in the second winning determination result storage buffer. It is stored in the area indicating the hold mode (step S904). For example, when it is determined that "no hold effect is executed", "0" is stored as data indicating that the hold effect is not executed, that is, the hold mode is not determined, and the "first mode" is determined. In this case, "1" is stored as the data indicating the hold mode, "2" is stored as the data indicating the hold mode when the "second mode" is determined, and "3" is determined when the "3rd mode" is determined. Stores "3" as data indicating the hold mode.

When the game state is not the high base state (that is, the time saving state or the probability changing state) (N in step S901), that is, when it is the normal state, the effect control CPU 101 determines which of the first winning determination results. It is confirmed whether or not a designated command (a winning determination result designation command based on a winning of a game ball into the first starting winning opening 13: see FIG. 11) is received (step S906). In order to determine whether or not any of the first winning determination result specification commands has been received, for example, a flag indicating that the command has been received is set in the process of step S652 shown in FIG. By doing so, it is possible to confirm in the process of step S906 whether or not any of the first winning determination result specification commands has been received, depending on whether or not the flag is set.

When any one of the first winning determination result designation commands is received, the effect control CPU 101 determines the normal state (first start winning) hold mode based on the received first winning determination result designation command. The hold mode is determined using the table (see FIG. 30A) (step S907).

FIG. 30A is an explanatory diagram showing a holding state determination table for normal state (first starting winning). Even when the holding state determination table for the normal state (first starting winning) is used, as in the case of the holding state determination table for the time saving state (second starting winning) of FIG. As the display mode of the hold display of, that is, the hold mode, it is possible to determine one of the “first mode”, the “second mode”, and the “third mode”. In addition, the fact that the hold mode is determined to be “no hold effect execution” means that the hold effect is not executed.

Next, the effect control CPU 101 stores the data indicating the determined holding mode in the storage area (the storage area of the number corresponding to the first holding storage number) in which the latest data is stored in the first winning determination result storage buffer. It is stored in the area indicating the hold mode (step S908). For example, when “no hold effect execution” is determined, “0” is stored as data indicating that the hold effect is not executed, that is, the hold mode is not determined, and when the “first mode” is determined. "1" is stored as data indicating the hold mode, "2" is stored as data indicating the hold mode when "second mode" is determined, and "1" is stored as data indicating the hold mode when "second mode" is determined. “3” is stored as data indicating the hold mode.

30(a) and 30(b) is unique in that the display result is a big hit rather than a hit, and the variation pattern is highly expected even if the display result is the same. As a matter of fact, the proportion of “first mode” is higher than “no hold effect execution”, “second mode” is higher than “first mode”, and “third mode” is higher than “second mode”. Is that the judgment value is set. By having such characteristics, the holding mode when the holding effect is executed is “first mode” rather than “no holding effect execution”, and the holding mode is “first mode” rather than “first mode”. When the "second mode" is more, when the holding mode is the "third mode" than the "second mode", the advantageous variation mode of the effect symbol (for example, super reach effect is performed. ) Can be increased, and the display result can be a big hit. That is, the expectation is higher when the hold effect is executed than when the hold effect is not executed. In addition, when the hold effect is executed, the expectation level is higher in the “second mode” than in the “first mode” and in the “third mode” than in the “second mode”. It becomes a display mode. Therefore, it is possible to give the player a sense of expectation that the hold display is displayed in a display mode different from the normal mode due to the hold effect, and to pay attention to which display mode is displayed. it can.

Further, what is characteristic of the hold mode determination tables shown in FIGS. 30A and 30B is that the hold mode determination table for normal state (first start winning) shown in FIG. That is, the determination value is set such that the ratio of “no holding effect execution” is higher than that in the high base state (second starting prize) holding mode determination table shown in (b). By having such characteristics, when the gaming state is the normal state (that is, when the time saving control is not performed), when it is in the high base state (the time saving state or the probability variation state) (that is, the time saving control Is performed, the holding effect is limited to be executed at a lower rate. This is when the gaming state is a high base state (time saving state or probability changing state) (that is, when time saving control is being performed), when it is in a normal state (that is, when time saving control is not being performed) In comparison, it can be said that the holding effect is configured to be executed at a higher rate. With such a configuration, the ratio of executing the holding effect is changed according to the game state, that is, the kind of control (time saving control in this example) (that is, the holding effect). By changing the rate of limiting the execution of the), it is possible to prevent the production from becoming monotonous and enhance the interest.

Further, in this embodiment, in the high base state (time saving state or probability changing state), the variable pattern “shortening non-reach deviation” or the like is more easily selected than in the normal state, so that the variable display time (Variation time) tends to be shorter on average. Then, in the high base state, it becomes difficult to secure a period for executing the notice effect for each variable display. Therefore, in the high base state, by executing a holding effect that can complete the effect in a short period at a high rate, it is possible to execute an effect suitable for the gaming state. In this embodiment, as the hold effect, the effect of displaying the hold display in a display mode different from the normal mode is executed from the first display of the hold display, but for example, the hold display is temporarily displayed in the normal mode. After that, the effect may be changed to a different display mode. It is possible to complete the effect in a short period regardless of the effect.

In addition, the holding state determination table for the normal state (first starting prize) shown in FIG. 30(a) is better than the holding state determination table for the high base state (second starting prize) shown in FIG. 30(b). , Since the determination value is set so that the ratio of “no hold effect execution” is high, the hold display based on the first start prize is more than the hold display based on the second start prize. The holding effect is limited to be low. It can be said that the hold display based on the second start winning is configured such that the holding effect is executed at a higher rate than the hold display based on the first starting prize. By being configured in this way, depending on which of the starting prize-based hold display, the ratio of executing the holding effect is changed (that is, the ratio of restricting the execution of the holding effect is changed). Thus, it is possible to prevent the production from becoming monotonous and enhance the interest.

Further, what is characteristic of the hold mode determination tables shown in FIGS. 30A and 30B is that the variation pattern indicated by the winning determination result designation command does not have reach production (for example, “non-reach is lost”). ), the corresponding hold display can be the target of the hold effect. With such a configuration, it is possible to give variety to the holding effect and enhance the enjoyment of the game.

In this embodiment, as the hold effect, the effect of displaying the hold display in a display mode different from the normal mode is executed from the time of first displaying the hold display, but after the hold display is temporarily displayed in the normal mode, The effect may be changed to a different display mode, or any effect may be executable. For example, after temporarily displaying the hold display in a normal mode, at any timing (for example, at the start of change of any change display executed before the change display corresponding to the hold display, during change display, end of change). At the time), a holding effect for changing the display mode may be executed.

Further, when the hold effect can be executed at an arbitrary timing, the hold mode determination process may determine the hold mode and the timing at which the hold effect is executed. For example, it may be possible to determine to execute the hold effect at a timing when the shift display is performed a predetermined number of times (that is, a timing when the variable display is performed a predetermined number of times) after the start winning. Specifically, when it is determined that the hold display is executed at the timing when the hold display is shifted twice, the counter for counting the number of shifts is set to 2 and the hold display is shifted. The counter value is decremented by 1. Then, when the value of the counter becomes 0, the holding effect is executed.

In this case, depending on the number of holding memories, the timing of executing the holding effect is determined by using different holding effect timing determination tables, so that the variable display based on the pending storage of the notice target is surely started. It is possible to execute the hold effect by. For example, the holding effect timing determination table used when the number of held memories is 3, when the start winning is made (when the holding display is first displayed), when the holding display is shifted once, or twice. A decision value is assigned so that it can be determined at any one time. Further, for example, the holding effect timing determination table used when the number of holding memories is 2 is either when the start winning is made (when the holding display is first displayed) or when the holding display is shifted once. A determination value is assigned so that Further, by determining the timing at which the holding effect is executed based on the variation pattern and the display result, the proportion of the big hit or the advantageous effect being executed is changed according to the timing at which the holding effect is executed, that is, the expected value. The degrees may be different.

Also, the display mode of the hold display is not limited to one that changes only once, and may be changed multiple times. That is, the display mode may be gradually changed to the one with high expectation. In this case, the variable display may be changed a plurality of times during one variable display, or may be changed a plurality of times at each timing at which the hold display is shifted (or at an arbitrary shift timing).

FIG. 31 is a flowchart showing the hold display execution process (step S800b) in the effect control process process shown in FIG. In the hold display execution process, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not there is a hold display that has not been displayed yet after the start winning (step S910). If there is no hold display that has not been displayed, the hold display execution process To finish. Whether or not there is an undisplayed hold display is displayed, for example, by displaying a hold display corresponding to the winning determination result newly stored in the first winning determination result storage buffer or the second winning determination result storage buffer. It can be confirmed by whether or not there is. For example, as described above, when the flag indicating that is received is set when the winning determination result designation command is received, in step S918, S919, S926, or S927, which will be described later, the corresponding pending display is displayed. If the flag is reset after the display, it is possible to confirm whether or not there is an undisplayed pending display by confirming the state of the flag. Further, for example, when the winning determination result designation command is received, an undisplayed flag indicating that there is an undisplayed held display is set, and the corresponding holding is performed in any of steps S918, S919, S926, and S927 described later. The flag may be reset after the display is displayed.

When there is an undisplayed hold display, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether the game state is the high base state (that is, the time saving state or the probability changing state) (step S911). If it is not in the high base state, the process proceeds to step S920.

When the gaming state is the high base state (that is, the time saving state or the probability changing state), the effect control CPU 101 has three or more hold displays in a display mode different from the normal mode among the currently displayed hold displays. It is confirmed whether or not there is (step S912). If there are three or more, the effect control CPU 101 sets the restriction flag corresponding to the new winning determination result (that is, the winning determination result corresponding to the undisplayed pending display) in the second winning determination result storage buffer. Yes (step S913). Then, the process proceeds to step S916. As shown in FIG. 27, in this embodiment, when the restriction flag is set, "1" is stored as data indicating the state of the restriction flag.

If there are not three or more hold displays in the display mode different from the normal mode, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the currently displayed hold display includes the third mode hold display (step S914). ). If there is a hold display in the third mode, the effect control CPU 101 holds a new win determination result (that is, a prize determination result corresponding to an undisplayed hold display) in the second prize determination result storage buffer. Is determined to be the third mode (step S915a), and if the holding mode is determined to be the third mode, a new winning determination result (that is, a winning determination corresponding to an undisplayed pending display is determined). A restriction flag corresponding to (result) is set (step S915b). Then, the process proceeds to step S916.

In step S916, the effect control CPU 101 determines in the second winning determination result storage buffer that the holding mode is set for the new winning determination result (that is, the winning determination result corresponding to the undisplayed holding display). It is confirmed whether or not there is any (step S916). Then, when the hold mode is not determined (N in step S916), that is, when it is determined that the hold effect is not executed (in this example, “0” is stored in step S904), The effect control CPU 101 displays the undisplayed second hold display in the normal mode (step S918). Then, the process ends.

When the hold mode is determined (Y in step S916), that is, when the hold effect is determined to be executed, the effect control CPU 101 determines a new winning determination result (that is, an undisplayed hold effect). It is confirmed whether or not the restriction flag corresponding to the winning determination result corresponding to the display is set (step S917). Then, when the restriction flag is set, the effect control CPU 101 displays the undisplayed second hold display in the normal mode (step S918). On the other hand, when the restriction flag is not set, the effect control CPU 101 determines the hold mode in which the second hold display that has not been displayed is determined (in this example, the hold mode is specified based on the data stored in step S904). Is displayed (step S919). Then, the process ends.

Further, when it is not in the high base state (that is, the time saving state or the probability changing state), that is, when it is the normal state (N in step S911), the effect control CPU 101 displays the second in the hold display currently displayed. It is confirmed whether there is a hold display of the mode (step S920). If there is a hold display of the second mode, the effect control CPU 101 holds a new win determination result (that is, a prize determination result corresponding to an undisplayed hold display) in the first prize determination result storage buffer. Is determined to be the third mode (step S921a), and if the holding mode is determined to be the third mode, a new winning determination result (that is, a winning determination corresponding to an undisplayed pending display is determined). A restriction flag corresponding to (result) is set (step S921b).

Next, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the currently displayed hold display includes the hold display of the first mode (step S922). If there is the hold display of the first mode, the effect control CPU 101 holds a new win determination result (that is, a prize determination result corresponding to an undisplayed hold display) in the first prize determination result storage buffer. Is determined to be the second mode or the third mode (step S923a), and if the hold mode is the second mode or the third mode, a new winning determination result (that is, undisplayed) A restriction flag corresponding to the winning determination result corresponding to the hold display is set (step S923b).

In step S924, the effect control CPU 101 determines the holding mode for the new winning determination result (that is, the winning determination result corresponding to the undisplayed pending display) in the first winning determination result storage buffer. It is confirmed whether or not there is any (step S924). Then, when the hold mode is not determined (N in step S924), that is, when the hold effect is not executed (in this example, “0” is stored in step S908), The effect control CPU 101 displays the undisplayed first hold display in the normal mode (step S926). Then, the process ends.

When the hold mode is determined (Y in step S924), that is, when the hold effect is determined to be executed, the effect control CPU 101 determines a new winning determination result (that is, an undisplayed hold). It is confirmed whether or not the restriction flag corresponding to the winning determination result corresponding to the display is set (step S925). Then, when the restriction flag is set, the effect control CPU 101 displays the undisplayed first hold display in the normal mode (step S926). On the other hand, when the restriction flag is not set, the effect control CPU 101 determines the pending mode in which the undisplayed first pending display is determined (in this example, it is specified based on the data stored in step S908). Is displayed (step S927). Then, the process ends.

In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 31 and 32, the hold display can be restricted in a plurality of modes, so that the production can be prevented from becoming monotonous and the interest can be enhanced. In addition, when the gaming state is in the high base state (time saving state or probability changing state) and in the normal state (that is, when the time saving control is performed and when it is not performed), the holding effect, Different modes of limitation are implemented. Therefore, in this embodiment, since different aspects of the pending effects are restricted according to the game state (or whether or not specific control is performed), the effects are prevented from becoming monotonous. , Can raise interest.

Further, in this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 31 and 32, when the gaming state is the high base state (time saving state or probability variation state), the restriction flag is set in the second winning determination result storage buffer ( In steps S913 and S915b), in the normal state, the restriction flag is set in the first winning determination result storage buffer (steps S921b and S923b). Here, the first winning determination result storage buffer stores the winning determination result when the first starting winning opening 13 is won, and the second winning determination result storage buffer stores the second starting winning opening 14 The determination result at the time of winning the start winning is stored. Therefore, in the present embodiment, different restrictions are applied to the holding effect depending on which of the first starting winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14 corresponds to the starting winning. It can be said that it can prevent the monotony from becoming monotonous and enhance the interest.

Specifically, by performing the processing of steps S914 to S915b, when the high base state (time saving state or probability variation state) (that is, when time saving control is being performed), it is currently displayed. When the hold display of the third mode is included in the hold displays, execution of the hold effect of newly displaying the hold display in the third mode is restricted. Therefore, in the high base state (time saving state or probability changing state) (that is, when time saving control is performed), the holding effect is frequently executed (see FIG. 30 ), but is limited in this way. As a result, it is possible to prevent a situation in which the player does not know which to pay attention to by displaying a plurality of display modes with high expectations. That is, with respect to the hold display corresponding to the start winning to the second start winning opening 14, when the hold display of the third mode is included in the currently displayed hold displays, the hold effect displayed in the third mode Is limited to doing. Therefore, with respect to the hold display corresponding to the start winning in the second start winning opening 14, the holding effect is frequently executed (see FIG. 30), but by limiting in this way, the expectation is high. By being displayed in the display mode, it is possible to prevent the player from being in a state of not knowing which one to pay attention to.

Further, by executing the processing of steps S912 to S913, when the high base state (time saving state or probability variation state) (that is, when time saving control is being performed), the currently displayed suspended display is displayed. If there are a predetermined number (three in this example, but not limited to three) of the hold displays in the display mode different from the normal mode, the hold display is newly displayed in a display mode different from the normal mode. Execution of the holding effect is restricted. Therefore, in the high base state (time saving state or probability changing state) (that is, when time saving control is performed), the holding effect is frequently executed (see FIG. 30 ), but is limited in this way. As a result, it is possible to prevent a situation in which the player does not know which to pay attention to because the number of the hold display in the display mode different from the normal mode becomes too large. Further, it is possible to prevent the value of the holding effect from being lowered because the holding effect is executed too much, even temporarily. That is, with respect to the hold display corresponding to the start winning in the second start winning opening 14, a predetermined number of hold displays having a display mode different from the normal mode (three in this example, but not limited to three). In the above cases, it is restricted to execute the hold effect that newly displays the hold display in a display mode different from the normal mode. Therefore, with respect to the hold display corresponding to the start winning in the second start winning opening 14, the hold effect is frequently executed (see FIG. 30), but by limiting in this way, the normal mode is achieved. It is possible to prevent a situation in which the player does not know which to pay attention to because the number of pending displays in different display modes becomes too large. Further, it is possible to prevent the value of the holding effect from being lowered because the holding effect is executed too much, even temporarily.

Further, by executing the processing of steps S920 to S921b, in the normal state (that is, when the time saving control is not performed), the hold display of the second mode is displayed in the hold display currently displayed. If there is, the execution of the hold effect that newly displays the hold display in the third mode is restricted. By limiting in this way, in the state where the holding effect is difficult to be executed (which can be said to be a state in which the jackpot is less likely to occur than in the high base state in the normal state), there are a plurality of hold displays with a high expectation. It is possible to prevent the player from having too much expectation by being displayed. That is, with respect to the hold display corresponding to the start winning at the first start winning hole 13, when the hold display of the second mode is included in the currently displayed hold displays, the hold display is newly displayed in the third mode. Execution of the holding effect that displays is restricted. Therefore, compared to the second hold display, the hold effect is less likely to be executed. The first hold display (to the first start prize 13 in which the proportion of big hits is lower than the second hold display for the start prize to the second start prize 14). It is possible to prevent the player from having too much expectation by displaying a plurality of hold displays in a display mode having a high expectation degree.

In addition, by performing the processing of steps S922 to S923b, in the normal state (that is, when the time saving control is not performed), the hold display of the first mode is displayed in the hold display currently displayed. If there is, it is restricted to newly execute the hold effect of displaying the hold display in the second mode or the third mode. That is, with respect to the hold display corresponding to the start winning to the first start winning opening 13, when the hold display of the first mode is included in the currently displayed hold displays, the second mode or the third mode is used. Execution of the hold effect that displays the hold display is restricted. When the hold effect of displaying the hold display in a display mode having a higher degree of expectation than the first mode is executed when the hold display of the first mode is displayed in the currently displayed hold display, Although it becomes impossible to maintain the feeling of expectation with respect to the hold display in the first mode, it is possible to prevent the feeling of expectation from being unable to be maintained in such a manner.

In this embodiment, as the hold effect, the effect of displaying the hold display in a display mode different from the normal mode is executed from the first display of the hold display, but for example, the hold display is temporarily displayed in the normal mode. After that, the effect may be changed to a different display mode. Further, any of the effects may be executable. For example, after temporarily displaying the hold display in a normal mode, at any timing (for example, at the start of change of any change display executed before the change display corresponding to the hold display, during change display, end of change). At the time), a holding effect for changing the display mode may be executed. Further, it is also possible to perform a holding effect in which a display mode is changed by causing a predetermined character to appear at an arbitrary timing and causing the character to act on the holding display (for example, performing an effect in which the character touches the holding display).

Further, in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 30, the holding mode is configured to be determined as any one of the first mode, the second mode and the third mode different from the normal mode. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the hold mode may be determined to be the normal mode (that is, not changed as a result of the effect). For example, when a predetermined character appears at an arbitrary timing and the character acts on the hold display (for example, when the character touches the hold display), the display mode is changed so that the character does not act on the hold display (for example, the character The display mode may not be changed when the effect of passing through is performed without touching the hold display. With this configuration, the hold effect is not limited to one that always changes the display mode of the hold display as a result of the effect, and does not change the display mode of the hold display as a result of the effect, and thus has versatility. It will be.

In addition, in this embodiment, the hold mode is determined in the hold mode determination process, and the hold display execution process is configured to restrict displaying the hold display in a specific hold mode in a predetermined case. For example, the holding mode determination process may be configured so as not to determine a specific holding mode in a predetermined case.

FIG. 33 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 variation pattern command reception flag is set, the variation pattern command reception flag is reset (step S812). Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to the value corresponding to the effect design variation start process (step S801) (step S813).

FIG. 34 is a flowchart showing the effect symbol variation start process (step S801) in the effect control process process shown in FIG. In the effect symbol variation start process, the effect control CPU 101 executes a specific effect setting process for performing settings related to the specific effect (step S8000a).

FIG. 35 is a flowchart showing the specific effect setting process (step S8000a). In this embodiment, the specific effect is an effect that is executed during the change of the effect symbol and changes the display mode of the active hold display from the normal mode to the specific display mode. In the specific effect setting process, the effect control CPU 101 sets the restriction flag associated with the storage area #1 of the prize determination result storage buffer in which the prize determination result corresponding to the variable display to be started is stored. It is confirmed whether there is any (step S8021). In step S8021, when the variable display of the first special symbol is started (when the first symbol variation designation command is received), the restriction flag is associated with the storage area #1 of the first winning determination result storage buffer. Confirm whether or not is set, when the variable display of the second special symbol is started (when the second symbol variation designation command is received), the storage area # of the second winning determination result storage buffer # It is confirmed whether or not the restriction flag is set in association with 1.

Next, the effect control CPU 101 selects the restricted specific effect mode determination table if the restriction flag is set (step S8022), and selects the normal specific effect mode determination table if not set (step S8022). Step S8023). Then, the effect control CPU 101 determines the effect mode of the specific effect using the selected table (step S8024).

FIG. 36 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the specific effect mode determination table. In this embodiment, the specific effect of the "first effect mode" is that the active hold display is changed to the first mode, and the specific effect of the "second effect mode" is that the active hold display is the second. The specific effect of the “third effect mode” is that the active hold display is changed to the third mode. In addition, in this embodiment, the first to third aspects of the active hold display are similar to the first to third aspects of the hold display, but may be different. 36(a) and 36(b) are characterized in that the display result is a big hit rather than a hit, and the expected degree of the variation pattern is the same even if the display result is the same. The higher the ratio, the more the "first performance mode" is selected than "no execution", the "second performance mode" is more than the "first performance mode", and the "third performance mode" is more than the "second performance mode". That is, the determination value is set so that By having such characteristics, when the specific effect to be executed is the “second effect mode” rather than the “first effect mode” when the specific effect is executed than when the specific effect is not executed. When the "third effect mode" is more advantageous than the "second effect mode", it is possible to increase the ratio of an advantageous effect pattern variation mode (for example, super reach effect is performed). , It is possible to increase the proportion of big hits in the display result. That is, the degree of expectation is higher when the specific effect is executed than when it is not executed. Further, the "second effect mode" is higher than the "first effect mode", and the "third effect mode" is higher than the "second effect mode". Therefore, it is possible to give the player a sense of expectation that the specific effect is executed, and also to pay attention to which effect mode is executed.

Further, what is characteristic of the specific effect mode determination tables shown in FIGS. 36A and 36B is that the restricted special effect mode determination table shown in FIG. That is, the determination value is set so that the ratio of “no execution” is lower than that in the normal specific effect mode determination table shown. By having such a feature, when the pending storage from which the variable display is to be started is displayed as the pending display, the execution of the pending effect is limited, and when the variable display is performed, It is possible to increase the ratio at which the specific effect is executed. Therefore, even if the execution of the hold effect is limited when the hold storage is displayed as the hold display, the specific effect is easily executed during the variable display, which can enhance the interest.

In the specific effect setting process, it is determined whether or not to execute the specific effect, and when it is determined that the specific effect is to be executed, the display mode is similar to the hold mode determined in the hold mode determination process. Good. That is, when the hold mode is determined to be the first mode in step S904 or S908 of the hold mode determination process, the specific effect is executed in the first effect mode, that is, the active hold display is changed to the first mode. Good. Further, it is also possible to provide a specific effect in which the display mode is changed by causing a predetermined character to appear at an arbitrary timing and causing the character to act on the active hold display (for example, performing an effect in which the character touches the active hold display). In this case, when a predetermined character appears at an arbitrary timing and the character acts on the active hold display (for example, when the active character touches the hold display), the display mode is changed, and the character does not act on the active hold display. The display mode may not be changed when, for example, the character passes through without holding the active hold display. According to this structure, the specific effect is not limited to one that does not necessarily change the display mode of the active hold display as a result of the effect, and does not change the display mode of the active hold display as a result of the effect. Will have.

When the specific effect setting process is completed, the effect control CPU 101 decrements the pending display by 1 by shifting the display so as to erase the pending display corresponding to the variable display that is about to start (step S8000b). In the process of step S8000b, the effect control CPU 101, when the variable display of the first special symbol is started (when the first symbol variation designation command is received), displays the reserved display in the first reserved storage display unit 18c. Shift, when the variable display of the second special symbol is started (when the second symbol variation designation command is received), the reserved display in the second reserved memory display portion 18d is shifted.

Further, the effect control CPU 101 deletes the winning determination result specification command and the like (including the data indicating the holding mode and the restriction flag) stored in the storage area #1 of the winning determination result storage buffer, and determines the winning determination. The contents of the result storage buffer are shifted (step S8000c). That is, the contents of storage area #n (n: 2 to 4) are shifted to storage area (n-1). Further, the first reserved storage number (when the variation of the first special symbol is executed) or the second reserved storage number (when the variation of the second special symbol is executed) is -1 (step S8000d). In the process of step S8000b, the effect control CPU 101, when the variable display of the first special symbol is started (when the first symbol variation designation command is received), sets the contents of the first winning determination result storage buffer. Shift, when the variable display of the second special symbol is started (when the second symbol variation designation command is received), the contents of the second winning determination result storage buffer are shifted.

Next, the effect control CPU 101 reads the variation pattern command from the variation pattern command storage area, and reads the variation pattern command and the data stored in the display result designation command storage area (that is, the received display result designation command). Accordingly, the display result of the effect symbol (stop 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. The effect control CPU 101 stores data indicating the determined stop symbol of the effect symbol in the effect symbol display result storage area.

FIG. 37 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. 37, when the received display result designation command indicates a normal big hit (when the received display result designation command is the display result 2 designation command), the effect control CPU 101 uses as a stop symbol. The combination of the effect symbols which 3 symbols are arranged in the even number symbol (the stop symbol which usually reminds the occurrence of the big hit) is decided. When the received display result designation command indicates the probability variation big hit (when the received display result designation command is the display result 3 designation command), the effect control CPU 101 has 3 symbols as odd symbols (probability variation). A combination of effect symbols arranged in a stop symbol that reminds the occurrence of a big hit is determined. Then, in the case of deviation (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. In addition, when the received display result designation command suddenly indicates a sudden variation big hit or a 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 a stop symbol. 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.

In addition, as for the effect design, a stop design that reminds me of a big hit is called a big hit design. In addition, a stop symbol that reminds of a probability big hit is called a probability jackpot design, and a stop pattern that reminds of a normal jackpot is called a normal jackpot design. Then, a stop design that reminds the user of disengagement is called a disengagement design.

Next, the effect control CPU 101 selects a process table according to the effect setting result and the variation pattern in step S8000a (step S8007). Then, the process timer in the process data 1 of the selected process table is started (step S8008).

FIG. 38 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, the form of each variation that constitutes the variation mode during the variable display time (variation time) of the variable display of the effect design, the data indicating the presence or absence of the background effect and the effect mode, and the like 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 for displaying effect symbols in a variation mode set in the display control execution data only for the time set in the process timer set value. It should be noted that data corresponding to effect parts that are not controlled even though they correspond to the effect control process timer determination value (for example, suggestion effect described in the display control execution data of the process table used when the suggestion effect is not executed). The dummy data (data that does not specify control) may be set in the data indicating the mode (1).

The process table shown in FIG. 38 is stored in the ROM of the effect control board 80. Further, the process table is prepared according to each variation pattern and effect setting result.

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.

Further, 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 part as effect parts). The control of the various lamps and the speakers 27R and 27L as effect parts is executed (step S1816). 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 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 speakers 27R and 27L.

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, in the variable time timer, a value corresponding to the variable time specified by the variable pattern command (step S8010), and sets the value of the effect control process flag during the effect symbol fluctuation process (step S802). (Step S8011).

FIG. 39 is a flowchart showing the effect of the effect of changing the effect design (step S802) in the effect control process processing. In the effect symbol changing process, the effect control CPU 101 subtracts 1 from the value of the process timer (step S8101) and 1 from the value of the variable time timer (step S8102).

Next, when the process timer times out (step S8104), the effect control CPU 101 switches the process data. That is, the process timer set value set next in the process table is set in the process timer (step S8105). 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 S8106).

Next, the effect control CPU 101 sets the value of the effect control process flag to the effect symbol variation stop if the confirmation command reception flag is set or the change time timer has timed out (Y in step S8107, Y in step S8108). The value is updated to a value according to the process (step S803) (step S8111), and the effect during the effect of design symbol variation is ended.

Further, if the confirmation command reception flag is not set and the variation time timer has not timed out (N in step S8107, N in S8108), the effect symbol variation process is ended as it is.

Next, specific examples of the holding effect and the specific effect will be described. FIG. 40 is an explanatory diagram showing specific examples of the holding effect and the specific effect. In the example shown in FIG. 40, the active hold display of the active hold display section 18e is displayed in the normal mode (the circle is shown in the example shown in FIG. 40) on the effect display device 9 during the time saving state, and the second hold storage display is displayed. One hold display is displayed in the section 18d in a normal manner (a circle is shown in the example shown in FIG. 40) and variable display is performed (FIG. 40(A)). Here, when the start winning is generated in the second starting winning opening 14, the hold mode determination processing is executed based on the winning determination result. Then, in the hold mode determination process, when the hold mode is determined to be the third mode, the hold effect in which a new hold display is displayed in the third mode is executed (FIG. 40(B)).

When the variable display is stopped (FIG. 40(C)), the pending display corresponding to the previously stored pending storage is deleted, the remaining pending display is shifted to the left, and a new variable display is started (FIG. 40). (D)). Here, the start winning is generated again in the second starting winning opening 14, and the hold mode is determined to be the third mode based on the winning determination result. However, in the high base state (that is, the hold display corresponding to the second hold storage), execution of the hold effect is restricted so as not to display the plurality of hold displays in a display mode with high expectation (third mode in this example). Therefore (steps S914 to S915b of the hold display execution process), the new hold display (18d-1 in FIG. 40E) is displayed in the normal mode (FIG. 40E).

After that, the variable display is stopped and the pending display is shifted, and the variable display corresponding to the pending storage in which execution of the pending effect is restricted is started (FIGS. 40F and 40G). Then, when the specific effect is executed, the display mode of the active hold display of the active hold display unit 18e changes to the third form (FIG. 40(H)).

In this embodiment, as the hold effect, the effect of displaying the hold display in a display mode different from the normal mode is executed from the first display of the hold display, but for example, the hold display is temporarily displayed in the normal mode. After that, the effect may be changed to a different display mode. Also, the display mode of the hold display is not limited to one that changes only once, and may be changed multiple times. That is, the display mode may be gradually changed to the one with high expectation. As a specific effect, a predetermined character may appear and the character may act on the active hold display to change the display mode of the active hold display. In this case, although the predetermined character appears, the specific effect in which the active hold display does not change as a result of the effect can also be executed, so that the specific effect can have variety.

In addition, the hold display is displayed in a specific mode different from the first mode to the third mode, and the ratio of the specific effect to be executed is increased during the variable display of the pending storage corresponding to the special mode hold display. Or it may be executed without fail. Hereinafter, displaying the hold display in a specific mode is also referred to as a specific effect announcement.

FIG. 41 is a flowchart showing a modification of the hold display execution process. In the modified example of the hold display execution process shown in FIG. 41, the effect control CPU 101 determines whether the hold display currently displayed after the process of step S912, S913, S914, or S915b is a hold display of a specific mode. Whether or not it is confirmed (step S931), and if there is a hold display in the specific mode, the second hold display which has not been displayed is displayed in the normal mode (step S932). At this time, the restriction flag associated with the winning determination result corresponding to the undisplayed second hold display may be set. Then, the process ends.

In addition, if there is no hold display in a specific mode, the effect control CPU 101 compares the new winning determination result (that is, the winning determination result corresponding to the undisplayed pending display) in the second winning determination result storage buffer. Then, it is confirmed whether or not the hold mode is determined (step S933). Then, when the holding mode is not determined (N in step S933), that is, when it is determined that the holding effect is not executed (in this example, “0” is stored in step S904), The effect control CPU 101 proceeds to step S935.

When the hold mode is determined (Y in step S933), that is, when the hold effect is determined to be executed, the effect control CPU 101 determines a new winning determination result (that is, an undisplayed hold effect). It is confirmed whether or not the restriction flag corresponding to the winning determination result corresponding to the display is set (step S934). Then, when the restriction flag is not set, the effect control CPU 101 determines the pending mode in which the second undisplayed pending display has been determined (in this example, it is specified based on the data stored in step S904). Is displayed (step S937). Then, the process ends. On the other hand, if the restriction flag is not set, the process proceeds to step S935.

In step S935, the effect control CPU 101 determines whether or not to display the undisplayed second hold display in a specific mode, that is, whether or not to execute the specific effect announcement (step S935). Then, the effect control CPU 101 displays the undisplayed second hold display in the normal mode or the specific mode based on the determination result in step S925 (step S936).

After the process of step S922 or S923b, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the currently displayed hold display includes the hold display of the specific mode (step S938), and the hold display of the specific mode is performed. For example, the undisplayed first hold display is displayed in the normal mode (step S939). At this time, the restriction flag associated with the winning determination result corresponding to the undisplayed first hold display may be set. Then, the process ends.

In addition, if there is no hold display in the specific mode, the effect control CPU 101 compares the new win determination result (that is, the win determination result corresponding to the undisplayed hold display) in the first prize determination result storage buffer. Then, it is confirmed whether or not the holding mode is determined (step S940). Then, when the hold mode is not determined (N in step S940), that is, when the hold effect is not executed (in this example, “0” is stored in step S908), The effect control CPU 101 proceeds to step S942.

When the hold mode is determined (Y in step S940), that is, when the hold effect is determined to be executed, the effect control CPU 101 determines a new winning determination result (that is, an undisplayed hold). It is confirmed whether or not the restriction flag corresponding to the winning determination result corresponding to the display is set (step S941). Then, when the restriction flag is not set, the effect control CPU 101 determines the pending mode in which the undisplayed first pending display is determined (in this example, it is specified based on the data stored in step S908). Is displayed (step S944). Then, the process ends. On the other hand, if the restriction flag is not set, the process proceeds to step S942.

In step S942, the effect control CPU 101 determines whether or not to display the undisplayed first hold display in a specific manner, that is, whether or not to execute the specific effect announcement (step S942). Then, the effect control CPU 101 displays the undisplayed first hold display in the normal mode or the specific mode based on the determination result in step S942 (step S946).

In steps S935 and S942, it is determined using the specific mode determination table shown in FIG. 42 whether or not the hold display is displayed in the specific mode. According to the specific mode determination table shown in FIG. 42, the reserved mode corresponding to the winning determination result with the restriction flag set is more specific than the reserved display corresponding to the undetermined winning determination result. It is easy to decide by displaying with. That is, the hold display which is the target of the hold effect is likely to be displayed in the specific mode. Therefore, the execution of the holding effect is restricted, but the notice of the specific effect is easily executed, so that the interest can be enhanced.

Further, in the example shown in FIG. 41, when there is a hold display of a specific mode in step S931 and step S938, the process of displaying the new hold display in a display mode different from the normal mode is configured not to be executed. There is. Therefore, it is possible to focus attention on the hold display in the specific mode, and it is possible to prevent the player's interest from being distracted by newly executing the hold effect or the special effect notice.

In addition, in this embodiment, in the processing of step S903 or S907 of the holding mode determination processing, the holding mode is determined to be the first mode, the second mode, or the third mode. In the processing, the hold mode may be determined to be the first mode, the second mode, or the third mode, or may be determined to be the specific mode. For example, in the reservation mode determination table shown in FIG. 30, “specific mode” may be added to the determination items and the determination value may be assigned at a predetermined ratio. In this case, instead of the processing of steps S935, S936 or S942, S943 of the pending display execution processing, the processing of step S918 or S926 for displaying the undisplayed pending display in the normal mode is executed, and the processing of step S937 or S944. In the above, the undisplayed hold display may be displayed in the first mode, the second mode or the third mode, or the specific mode. Further, in this case, in the specific effect setting process, the rate at which the specific effect is determined may be different depending on whether or not the hold display corresponding to the change start target hold storage is displayed in the specific mode. For example, when it is displayed in the specific mode, it is possible to add value to the display in the specific mode by deciding to execute the specific effect at a high rate, and to make the player pay attention.

In the holding mode determination process, when the holding mode is determined to be the first mode, the second mode, or the third mode, or configured to be the specific mode, it is determined to be the specific mode, You may make it determine the production mode of a specific production. That is, it may be determined that the display mode of the active hold display is changed to any one of the first mode, the second mode, and the third mode.

In this embodiment, as the hold effect, the effect of displaying the hold display in a display mode different from the normal mode is executed from the first display of the hold display, but the hold mode is temporarily displayed and then changed to a different display mode. The effect may be changed to, or may be changed to another display mode only when the hold display is displayed in a specific mode. In this case, in the hold mode determination process, the display mode at the time of first display and the display mode after the change may be determined, or the timing of changing may be determined. ..

Next, a specific example of the specific effect notice will be described. FIG. 43 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of the specific effect announcement. In the example shown in FIG. 43, the active hold display of the active hold display section 18e is displayed in the normal mode (the circle is shown in the example shown in FIG. 43) on the effect display device 9 during the time saving state, and the second hold memory display is displayed. One hold display is displayed in the section 18d in a normal manner (a circle is shown in the example shown in FIG. 43), and variable display is performed (FIG. 43(A)). Here, when the start winning is generated in the second starting winning opening 14, the hold mode determination processing is executed based on the winning determination result. Then, in the hold mode determination process, when the hold mode is determined to be the third mode, the hold effect in which a new hold display is displayed in the third mode is executed (FIG. 43(B)).

When the variable display is stopped (FIG. 43(C)), the pending display corresponding to the previously stored pending storage is deleted, the remaining pending display is shifted to the left, and a new variable display is started (FIG. 43). (D)).

Here, the start winning is generated again in the second starting winning opening 14, and the hold mode is determined to be the third mode based on the winning determination result. However, in the high base state (that is, the hold display corresponding to the second hold storage), execution of the hold effect is restricted so as not to display the plurality of hold displays in the display mode with high expectation (the third mode in this example). (Hold display execution processing steps S914 to S915b). At this time, if it is determined to execute the specific effect notice that displays the hold display in the specific mode (step S935 of the hold display execution process), the new hold display (18d-1 in FIG. 43E) is the specific mode. (Displayed by "*" in this example) (FIG. 43(E)).

After that, the variable display is stopped and the pending display is shifted, and the variable display corresponding to the pending storage in which execution of the pending effect is restricted is started (FIGS. 43(F) and (G)). Then, when the specific effect is executed, the display mode of the active hold display of the active hold display unit 18e changes to the third form (FIG. 43(H)).

As described above, in this embodiment, the preliminary determination means for determining whether or not the specific display result is derived and displayed based on the pending storage, and the pending display for displaying the pending display corresponding to the pending storage. And means. The hold display means is one of a plurality of types of display modes (first mode to third mode, specific mode in this example) different from the normal mode, based on the determination by the advance determination means (judgment determination result in this example). It is possible to display the hold display with. Further, when one hold display is displayed in a specific display mode different from the normal mode, another restriction display that is different from the one hold display is restricted to be displayed in a predetermined display mode. Means are further provided. Then, the limiting means is configured to be able to be limited in a plurality of modes. With such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the production from becoming monotonous and enhance the interest.

Further, in this embodiment, the restriction means is configured to change the mode of restriction according to the game state (in this example, the low base state or the high base state). With such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the production from becoming monotonous and enhance the interest.

Further, in this embodiment, the limiting device changes the mode of the limitation according to the established limiting condition (whether or not the limiting condition that the time saving control is being performed in this example is satisfied). It is configured. With such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the production from becoming monotonous and enhance the interest. In this embodiment, the limiting condition is that the time saving control is being performed, or that the first starting winning opening 13 or the second starting winning opening 14 is a pending display due to winning. The restriction condition may be, for example, that a specific effect such as a super reach effect or a so-called simultaneous effect is being executed.

In addition, in this embodiment, the limiting means holds the variable display of the first identification information (in this example, the pending storage based on winning in the first starting winning opening 13) and the variable display of the second identification information. The restriction mode is configured to be different depending on whether the display is a hold display (in this example, a hold storage based on winning in the second start winning opening 14). With such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the production from becoming monotonous and enhance the interest. In addition, in this embodiment, the hold display which is the target of the hold effect is the first hold display based on the start winning for the first starting winning opening 13, or the starting winning for the second starting winning opening 14 The restriction mode is configured to be different depending on whether it is the second hold display based on the original display. For example, the hold display displayed in a display mode different from the normal mode is displayed on the first starting winning opening 13. A mode of restriction of the holding effect for the newly displayed holding display depending on whether it is the first holding display based on the starting winning or the second holding display based on the starting winning to the second starting winning opening 14. May be different, or these configurations may be combined. Specifically, in this embodiment, when the hold display of the third aspect is displayed, the hold display that is the object of the hold effect is the first display based on the start winning award to the first start winning opening 13. When the display is a hold display, the hold effect is not limited, and when the display is a second hold display based on a start winning to the second start winning opening 14, the hold display for displaying the hold display in the third mode is limited. It is configured. Instead of or in addition to this configuration, when the hold display displayed in the third mode is the first hold display based on the starting winning to the first starting winning opening 13, the holding effect is not limited, When it is the second hold display based on the start winning to the second start winning opening 14, the hold effect of displaying the hold display in the third mode may be limited.

Further, in this embodiment, a specific effect executing means for executing a specific effect is provided. Then, the specific effect execution means, as compared with the specific effect for which the pending storage corresponding to the pending display not restricted by the limiting means is targeted, the reserved memory corresponding to the pending display restricted by the restricting means at a higher rate. It is configured to execute a specific effect targeting. With such a configuration, when the restriction is made, the ratio of the specific effect to be executed is increased, so that the effect can be prevented from becoming monotonous and the interest can be enhanced.

In addition, in this embodiment, the effect of changing the display mode of the active hold display is executed as the specific effect, but instead of or in addition to this, the effect of switching the background screen in the effect display device 9 is specified effect. It may be executed as. For example, when the variable display accompanied by a big hit or an advantageous effect is stored as the pending storage, the background screen in the effect display device 9 is specified from the normal screen at a higher rate than when the variable display is not stored. You may make it switch to a screen and perform the specific production|presentation which is continuously displayed over the variation display of once or several times. Also in this case, when the hold display includes the hold display in which the hold effect is limited, the effect may be executed at a higher rate than when the hold display is not included. Further, when performing such a specific effect, for example, after the hold display displayed in a display mode different from the normal mode that has triggered the hold effect is shifted and consumed, that is, the hold mode. Even if the background screen is switched to the specific screen after the variable display corresponding to the display ends, and the background screen is switched to the normal screen after the variable display corresponding to the hold display in which execution of the hold effect is restricted ends. Good.

Further, in this embodiment, the variable display time selecting means for selecting the variable display time for executing the variable display of the identification information from a plurality of predetermined variable display times is configured. With such a configuration, the variable display time can be appropriately selected.

Further, in this embodiment, a special display means for displaying a special image (active hold display in this example) corresponding to the variable display of the identification information being executed is provided. With such a configuration, it is possible to easily recognize that the variable display of the identification information is being performed.

Further, in this embodiment, a first period (for example, a period in which the base information is controlled to a low base state) in which the variable display of the identification information is performed in a short variable display time at the first ratio and the first ratio are lower than the first period. There is a second period (for example, a period in which the variable information is controlled to a high base state) in which the variable display of the identification information is performed at a high rate and a short variable display time, and the limiting means limits the first period and the second period. Is configured to be different. With such a configuration, it is possible to make restrictions suitable for each period.

Further, in this embodiment, a first period (for example, a period in which the base information is controlled to a low base state) in which the variable display of the identification information is performed in a short variable display time at the first ratio and the first ratio are lower than the first period. There is a second period (for example, a period in which the high-based state is controlled) in which variable display of identification information is performed at a high rate with a short variable display time, and the hold display unit includes a first period and a second period. The hold display is configured to be displayed in a different manner (in the present example, it is displayed as a rectangle when being controlled to the low base state and is displayed as a circle when being controlled to the high base state). .. With such a configuration, since the hold display is displayed in a different mode, the interest can be enhanced.

Further, in this embodiment, the special display means identifies the special image when the variable display of the identification information is being performed based on the pending storage corresponding to the pending display restricted by the restricting means. In the example, the first mode to the third mode are configured to be easily changed. With such a configuration, even if the pending storage corresponding to the pending display restricted by the restricting means is used, it is possible to enhance the interest when the variable display of the identification information is executed based on the pending storage. You can

In addition, in this embodiment, when a plurality of hold displays are displayed in a display mode different from the normal mode, there is no limitation on those hold displays, but they are displayed in different modes. For example, some restrictions may be set. For example, when the two hold displays are displayed in a display mode different from the normal mode, the hold display corresponding to the hold storage stored later is more noticeable than the hold display corresponding to the hold storage stored earlier. It may be displayed in a light color or low brightness so that it is not displayed.

Further, in this embodiment, the restriction flag that is set once is configured not to be reset, but the restriction may be reviewed at a predetermined timing such as when the fluctuation starts or when the fluctuation ends. For example, in the hold display execution process (step S800b), first, only the restriction flag associated with the restriction flag or the earliest stored one of the winning determination results in which the restriction flag is set is displayed. Reset. Then, with respect to the winning determination result (holding display) in which the restriction flag is reset, it is determined whether or not the restriction is performed again, and when the restriction is performed, the restriction flag is set. In this case, the restriction flag may be reset and the hold display corresponding to the winning determination result that has not been set again may be changed from the normal mode (or the specific mode) to the hold mode and displayed.

In addition, in this embodiment, in order to match the number of reserved memories stored in the game control microcomputer 560 and the effect control microcomputer 100, respectively, the game control microcomputer 560 to the effect control microcomputer at the time of winning the start prize. A command (first reserved storage number addition designation command or second reserved storage number addition designation command) indicating that the reserved storage count has increased is transmitted to 100, and the command is received by the effect control microcomputer 100. At this time, the number of reserved memories is incremented by 1, and the number of reserved memories is decremented by 1 at the start of variation of the effect symbol, but a different configuration may be adopted. For example, a command indicating that the number of reserved memories has decreased (first reserved memory number subtraction designation command or second reserved memory number subtraction designation command) is provided, and from the game control microcomputer 560 for effect control at the start of variation of the special symbol. It may be transmitted to the microcomputer 100. In this case, when the production control microcomputer 100 receives a command indicating that the number of reserved storages has increased, the number of reserved storages is incremented by 1, and when a command indicating that the number of reserved storages has decreased is received. The number of reserved memories is decremented by 1.

The configurations shown in the above-described embodiments can be applied to a gaming system called a so-called portable interlocking system. A gaming system called a portable interlocking system generally gives a player a predetermined privilege based on a game machine that outputs predetermined information based on the establishment of a predetermined condition and a predetermined information output by the game machine. And a privilege granting device that performs a granting process.

Specifically, in the gaming system as described above, the gaming machine plays a predetermined condition such as the number of fluctuations, the number of big hits, the number of so-called condominiums (the number of big hits while the probability variation state continues), and the number of mission achievements. The history is accumulated, and a two-dimensional code or the like is displayed as predetermined information when the game is over. Further, the player uses a mobile terminal such as a mobile phone with a camera function to photograph the two-dimensional code displayed on the gaming machine and sends it to a Web server (privilege granting device) on the Internet. Then, the Web server manages the game history of the player based on the received information, and performs a process of giving a predetermined privilege according to the game history. For example, the Web server transmits digital contents such as image contents and music contents to the mobile terminal of the player as a predetermined privilege, or transmits a predetermined password to the mobile terminal of the player so that the next time the player When a game is played, a process is performed so that the display screen of the gaming machine can be customized according to the taste of the player.

When the configuration shown in the above-described embodiment is applied to the above-mentioned gaming system, for example, the fact that a specific effect is executed and a big hit is determined to be a predetermined condition is established, and the number of times the game is played on a Web server. It should be managed as a history. Then, depending on the number of times the specific effect is executed and the jackpot is achieved, the digital content may be transmitted as a predetermined privilege, or the display screen of the gaming machine may be customized.

It should be noted that in the above-described embodiment, in order to notify the production control microcomputer 100 of the variation pattern indicating the variation time and the variation mode such as the type of reach production and the presence/absence of pseudo-relation, it is set to 1 when starting the variation. Although an example in which one fluctuation pattern command is transmitted 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 uses the first command to determine whether or not there is a pseudo-relation and whether or not there is a sliding effect before reaching (so-called when not reaching. 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 the re-lottery effect, 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 of (after 2 stop) and a fluctuation mode. 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 change time by each of two commands, and the effect control microcomputer 100 selects the specific change 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 order of transmission 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, the effect control board 80, the sound output board 70, and the lamp driver board 35 are provided as the boards on which the circuits for controlling the effect device are mounted. You may mount on one board. 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 use another board (for example, FIG. 4). 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 production control microcomputer 100 in the production control board 80 via another board. In that case, the command may simply pass through on another board, or control means such as a microcomputer may be mounted on the voice output board 70, the lamp driver board 35, and the sound/lamp board so that the control means receives the command. In response to this, control related to voice control or lamp control is executed, and the received command is changed as it is or is changed to, for example, 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 the above-described embodiment, similarly to the sound output board 70 and the lamp driver. Display control can be performed in response to commands received from the substrate 35 or the sound/lamp substrate.

Further, in the above embodiment, a pachinko machine is taken as an example of a game machine, but the present invention is configured such that a plurality of types of coins are inserted and a predetermined bet number is set and a player operates an operation lever. When a symbol is rotated and the symbol is 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 paid out to the player. It is also possible.

Further, in the above-described embodiment, an example in which a game medium is used as the game machine has been taken as an example, but the game machine according to the present invention is not limited to a game machine that pays 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 big hits and normal big hits as big hit types, and based on the fact that it was decided as probability big hits as big hit types, the gaming machine that was controlled in the positive change state after the big hit game was shown. , But is not limited to such a gaming machine. 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 the above embodiment to a gaming machine that is controlled to be in the probable variation state after completion.

The specific game state (big hit state) is a special winning combination after a certain combination of symbols (flat pattern of the same symbol) is displayed on the variable display device, and a predetermined time (symbol fixed stop time + big hit start production time) has passed. The example of opening the specific game state is shown, but the present invention is not limited to this, and it is provided in the game area after the combination of specific symbols (the doublet of the same symbol) is displayed on the variable display device. The specific gaming state may be started by passing the ball through a specific area (a specific passage gate sensor or a winning sensor). As a result, the player can control the timing of the big hit, and even if the balls are exhausted before the start of the big hit, the player can have a time to lend the balls and replenish the balls.
Further, a plurality of specific areas may be provided, and the number of big hit rounds may be different depending on which specific area is passed. Alternatively, a lottery for the number of big hit rounds may be performed by passing through a specific area. Further, in that case, if there are a plurality of specific areas, the lottery ratio of the number of rounds may be different depending on which specific area is passed.

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

1 Pachinko gaming machine 8a 1st special symbol display 8b 2nd special symbol display 9 Production display device 13 1st start winning hole 14 2nd start winning port 20 Special variable winning 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

Claims (3)

A gaming machine that variably displays and can be controlled in an advantageous state that is advantageous to the player.
Holding storage means for storing information about variable display as holding storage;
Determination means for determining whether or not the advantageous state is controlled,
Holding display means for displaying a holding display corresponding to the holding storage stored in the holding storage means,
The hold display means, based on the determination of the determination means, it is possible to display the hold display in any of a plurality of types of display mode different from the normal mode,
When one hold display is displayed in a specific display mode different from the normal mode, another hold display different from the one hold display is displayed in a display mode different from the normal mode. Further comprising a limiting means for limiting,
A plurality of types of display modes different from the normal mode include a first display mode and a second display mode in which the ratio controlled to the advantageous state is higher than the first display mode,
The limiting means is
It is possible to restrict different contents according to the normal state and the high-frequency state in which the variable display is executed more frequently than the normal state.
In the normal state, when one hold display is displayed in the first display mode, another hold display different from the one hold display is restricted from being displayed in the second display mode. Then, it is possible to display another hold display different from the one hold display in the first display mode,
In the high-frequency state, the number of hold displays displayed in a display mode different from the normal mode is limited, and when one hold display is displayed in the second display mode, The other hold display different from the hold display of is limited to be displayed in the second display mode,
The advantageous state includes a first advantageous state and a second advantageous state that is more advantageous to the player than the first advantageous state,
The holding display means, based on the determination means is determined to be controlled to the first advantageous state, the proportion of displaying the hold display in a display mode different from the normal mode, the ratio of the normal state and the Different from high-frequency conditions,
A gaming machine characterized by that. Equipped with a variable display time selecting means for selecting the variable display time for executing the variable display from a plurality of predetermined variable display times,
The gaming machine according to claim 1. With a special display means for displaying a special image corresponding to the variable display being executed,
The gaming machine according to claim 1 or 2.